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Slaughter
My name is Avery Decker, and my story isn’t for the faint of heart. It is about revenge and hatred, misery and violence. I wasn’t always this way even though it was in my blood. I grew up happy and in love with my best friend until she betrayed me and walked away. After that, I fell into the deep, dark world I was meant for.
Presleigh Clarke's actions turned me into the ruthless man I am today. Too bad for her, I believe people should pay for the things they have done. The more painful and messy, the better. I get off on making people bleed. It feeds my inner demon, and right now, he is starving. She crossed me once, so now she’ll know what it’s like to fear me. But not all stories end the way you think they will … mine certainly didn’t.
Presleigh Clarke's actions turned me into the ruthless man I am today. Too bad for her, I believe people should pay for the things they have done. The more painful and messy, the better. I get off on making people bleed. It feeds my inner demon, and right now, he is starving. She crossed me once, so now she’ll know what it’s like to fear me. But not all stories end the way you think they will … mine certainly didn’t.
405 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 26, 2018
2693 people are currently reading
9300 people want to read
About the author
Shantel Tessier
66 books33.2k followersShantel is a USA Today & Wall Street Journal Bestselling Author. She lives in Oklahoma with her high school sweetheart, who is a wonderful, supportive husband and their two daughters. She loves to spend time cuddled up on the couch with a good book. Although she has a passion to write, her family is most important to her.
Email her at: Shanteltessierassistant@gmail.com
Email her at: Shanteltessierassistant@gmail.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 641 reviews
October 23, 2018
This book started really strong, and I was sucked into the story. I was dying to know everything that went down between Avery and Presleigh. However, by 40% in I was starting to get sick of the over the top violence towards Presleigh by the hero and pretty much everyone else. There was no forward movement in the mystery of what happened between them. Just scene after scene of Avery abusing and humiliating Presleigh, and Presleigh trying (and failing) to escape. This continues well into the book (60+%), and it was just exhausting and frustrating to read.
The other issue that bothered me A LOT was the ridiculous amount of slut-shaming Avery did because Presleigh slept around while they were apart. I legit lost count at how many times he called her a "slut" or a "whore." This was especially annoying because he did the EXACT. SAME. THING! But apparently, that was A-OK. However, at 70% we FINALLY find out what all went down, and Avery FINALLY gets his head out of his ass (somewhat), and I found myself sucked back into the story (although we STILL had to hear all about the abuse and rape the heroine suffered).
My issues aside, this wasn't a bad book by any means. This author is a fantastic writer. Even though I got sick of reading about the over the top violence aimed at the heroine, it was still a well-paced and engaging storyline. I can't say I was enamored with any of the characters. Avery was just too filled with hate and self-righteousness to be likable. Not to mention all the abuse he heaped on the heroine with basically zero grovel when he finds out HE was the asshole all along. Presleigh was a bit more likable. Many times with this type of scenario the heroine can come across like a doormat. I didn't feel that way about her. She was a straight up victim, and any time she tried to stand up for herself the hero would smack her around or humiliate her. So really, what could she do? Surprisingly, considering the content, we had zero OW or OM drama. The sex was hot (but a lot of dub consent, and rape (IMO), and it was wrapped up in a satisfying ending.
So yea, a bit of a mixed bag for me here. The violence was a bit too much for me and went on too long. I have read books similar to this before and rated them higher. So perhaps it is the mood I am in today. Do keep that in mind when reading this review and deciding for yourself if this book is for you.
November 18, 2018
’SLAUGHTER’ Is a full length standalone, dark romance novel by new to me author Shantel Tessier.
Avery & Presleigh (aka Bunny) were childhood sweethearts, their parents were best friends so it was only a matter of time that these two would hook up.
Avery is a product of his father, a man you won’t ever want to meet, if you do it means you’ll the next thing to be sold.
But then thirteen years later Avery and Bunny are no longer together. As the story goes, she broke his heart and never once looked back.
Avery is now thirty and she’s in trouble and he’s the only one that can help her.
I went into this completely blind, the only knowledge I had under my belt was the various readers before me tagging this book dark. It definitely had dark aspects in it which jump started my dark little heart.
This was such a crazy read, the hate these two shared for the other came across tenfold, going at it like feral animals steamed up the pages. This was disturbingly good, the sick part of me couldn’t put it down, the worse it got the more I seemed to love it, ticked all my boxes and I’m definitely going to read more by this author.
March 18, 2020
Dark Is An Understatement
*self-purchased on Amazon. No need of sugar daddies called promo teams*
“All those special times I spent with you, my love
They don't mean shit compared to all your drugs
But I don't really mind, I've got much more than that
Like my memories, I don't need that.”
Pretty When You Cry – Lana Del Rey
What’s this book about? (I'm trying to give as little spoilers as possible)
Avery Decker and Presleigh Clarke shouldn’t have been it. Years later, they’re both in different phases. One thing that hasn’t changed is their hatred for each other. Lines were crossed and now, it’s payback time.
This is a heavy book. Read the trigger warnings. THIS ISN’T FOR THE FAINT OF HEART. Be cautious.
“I wait for you, babe
You don't come through, babe
You never do, babe
That's just what you do
Because I'm pretty when I cry.”
Pretty When You Cry – Lana Del Rey
This is my second Shantel Tessier read. I don’t know why, but I kept shying away from Slaughter. I had book friends recommend it to me from early January on. I finally picked it up yesterday because I felt like I was neglecting Queen Tess Tess. And it turns out, I really did. WHAT THE FUCK did I just read, huh? I haven’t read this level of darkness in a long while. This was a terrifyingly addictive read. I was drawn to Avery and to Bunny from the get go. The things that they did and the things that happened to them… Petrifying. Heart-breaking. My first Shantel read was Code Of Silence and I remember it very well; Slaughter is NOTHING like that book. Shantel shows her versatile skills here. Dark doesn’t even begin to cover it. Messed up. STARIGHT UP INSANE.
I was thoroughly invested throughout the story. The twists kept coming. At some point, I didn’t even look at the time or the percentage that I was at. I just kept reading because the world that the author created was just immensely captivating.
I will NOT go into the whole using the pain of women as plot devices to further a man’s arc or however it is called. I’m not well-informed enough to rant about this publicly LOL (there’s nothing LOL about this book, I’m afraid). Slaughter’s lucky it caught me on a somewhat acceptable day of love and happiness.
Let’s just stick to Avery and Bunny who once used to be couple goals and in the present time of the book were found in a war of the roses of some sort. Their relationship was twisty and it had all the feels you could imagine, from deep love to unabashed loathing. They were steamy together and highly kinky (sex-addicts anonymous, what’s up?). Their chemistry was intense to say the least. I didn’t agree with boo Avery slut-shaming and kink-shaming poor Presleigh. It truly annoyed me whenever he went on a rant in his POV about those things.
Presleigh AKA Bunny is a difficult girl to wrap my head around. I like her strength and her persistence. She could’ve made some better choices in her life, but honestly, after the final quarter of the book, I just need to keep these feelings to myself. Like, shame on me for not seeing this earlier. I didn’t feel sorry for her because she didn’t come across as the type to want your pity. She kept fighting and she didn’t back down from her beliefs. I’m going to leave it at that.
Avery’s side-kicks were admirable and definitely readable. Now, Shantel Tess-Tess Tessier, where’s the book of Chloe and Tristan? I felt utterly teased at the end of the story when I reached the link and there were no news about these two. There are still some things that need resolving. What’s going on there?
I recommend this read to anyone who likes their darkness dipped in hellish black, sharp and fast-paced writing, kinky lead characters and HEARTBREAK. Lots of heartbreak.
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Goodreads
Bookbub
Amazon
*self-purchased on Amazon. No need of sugar daddies called promo teams*
“All those special times I spent with you, my love
They don't mean shit compared to all your drugs
But I don't really mind, I've got much more than that
Like my memories, I don't need that.”
Pretty When You Cry – Lana Del Rey
What’s this book about? (I'm trying to give as little spoilers as possible)
Avery Decker and Presleigh Clarke shouldn’t have been it. Years later, they’re both in different phases. One thing that hasn’t changed is their hatred for each other. Lines were crossed and now, it’s payback time.
This is a heavy book. Read the trigger warnings. THIS ISN’T FOR THE FAINT OF HEART. Be cautious.
“I wait for you, babe
You don't come through, babe
You never do, babe
That's just what you do
Because I'm pretty when I cry.”
Pretty When You Cry – Lana Del Rey
This is my second Shantel Tessier read. I don’t know why, but I kept shying away from Slaughter. I had book friends recommend it to me from early January on. I finally picked it up yesterday because I felt like I was neglecting Queen Tess Tess. And it turns out, I really did. WHAT THE FUCK did I just read, huh? I haven’t read this level of darkness in a long while. This was a terrifyingly addictive read. I was drawn to Avery and to Bunny from the get go. The things that they did and the things that happened to them… Petrifying. Heart-breaking. My first Shantel read was Code Of Silence and I remember it very well; Slaughter is NOTHING like that book. Shantel shows her versatile skills here. Dark doesn’t even begin to cover it. Messed up. STARIGHT UP INSANE.
I was thoroughly invested throughout the story. The twists kept coming. At some point, I didn’t even look at the time or the percentage that I was at. I just kept reading because the world that the author created was just immensely captivating.
I will NOT go into the whole using the pain of women as plot devices to further a man’s arc or however it is called. I’m not well-informed enough to rant about this publicly LOL (there’s nothing LOL about this book, I’m afraid). Slaughter’s lucky it caught me on a somewhat acceptable day of love and happiness.
Let’s just stick to Avery and Bunny who once used to be couple goals and in the present time of the book were found in a war of the roses of some sort. Their relationship was twisty and it had all the feels you could imagine, from deep love to unabashed loathing. They were steamy together and highly kinky (sex-addicts anonymous, what’s up?). Their chemistry was intense to say the least. I didn’t agree with boo Avery slut-shaming and kink-shaming poor Presleigh. It truly annoyed me whenever he went on a rant in his POV about those things.
Presleigh AKA Bunny is a difficult girl to wrap my head around. I like her strength and her persistence. She could’ve made some better choices in her life, but honestly, after the final quarter of the book, I just need to keep these feelings to myself. Like, shame on me for not seeing this earlier. I didn’t feel sorry for her because she didn’t come across as the type to want your pity. She kept fighting and she didn’t back down from her beliefs. I’m going to leave it at that.
Avery’s side-kicks were admirable and definitely readable. Now, Shantel Tess-Tess Tessier, where’s the book of Chloe and Tristan? I felt utterly teased at the end of the story when I reached the link and there were no news about these two. There are still some things that need resolving. What’s going on there?
I recommend this read to anyone who likes their darkness dipped in hellish black, sharp and fast-paced writing, kinky lead characters and HEARTBREAK. Lots of heartbreak.
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Bookbub
Amazon
June 20, 2020
3 Stars!
I honestly wasn't sure what I was going to rate this. There were times when I didn't even know if I wanted to finish the book. I stopped many times to give my brain a break. I really don't understand why this book doesn't have any warning's about triggers in its summary. It needs them BIG TIME. So much violence in this book. Most of it is sexual and wrote in such graphic detail that you feel like you are in the room witnessing it. I would have liked a bit of a heads up because if I had a warning I may have chosen to not read this book.
Look, I read a lot of dark romance books. I love them. They're one of my favorite tropes. But I find it hard to consider this book romantic at all. There is zero romance. It is full of the hero making the heroine feel humiliated and belittled over and over again. The sexual and physical abuse was a bit much. As in there was a lot of it. It was excessive and I was just over this book and skimmed some of it because if they weren't fucking each other they were fighting and I was just done. DONE.
I didn't like any of these characters but I will say that the writing was good and the story was interesting. Obviously since I kept on to the end even though it was a bit of a struggle.
I felt the need to write a review because I felt since there were no trigger warnings I should let people know that THIS BOOK HAS VERY GRAPHIC PHYSICAL AND SEXUAL ABUSE.
Happy reading dolls! xx
I honestly wasn't sure what I was going to rate this. There were times when I didn't even know if I wanted to finish the book. I stopped many times to give my brain a break. I really don't understand why this book doesn't have any warning's about triggers in its summary. It needs them BIG TIME. So much violence in this book. Most of it is sexual and wrote in such graphic detail that you feel like you are in the room witnessing it. I would have liked a bit of a heads up because if I had a warning I may have chosen to not read this book.
Look, I read a lot of dark romance books. I love them. They're one of my favorite tropes. But I find it hard to consider this book romantic at all. There is zero romance. It is full of the hero making the heroine feel humiliated and belittled over and over again. The sexual and physical abuse was a bit much. As in there was a lot of it. It was excessive and I was just over this book and skimmed some of it because if they weren't fucking each other they were fighting and I was just done. DONE.
I didn't like any of these characters but I will say that the writing was good and the story was interesting. Obviously since I kept on to the end even though it was a bit of a struggle.
I felt the need to write a review because I felt since there were no trigger warnings I should let people know that THIS BOOK HAS VERY GRAPHIC PHYSICAL AND SEXUAL ABUSE.
Happy reading dolls! xx
February 13, 2022
Great read. The hero was sexy alpha who was captivated by the heroine, and the heroine was strong given all that she overcame but vulnerable. A gritty love story of second chances and twists. Medium burn though a tad too long especially following a theme of a little communication early on saving a lot of unnecessary turmoil. Otherwise, an entertaining story and some wrenching dark themes. A moving story that remains in my conscience whenever I reflect upon it.
October 26, 2018
It started well...
January 30, 2019
★5 Stars★
Slaughter was an amazing unexpected read. I am first-time reader of this author, and most certainly will not be my last...I went blind in the book, just knowing that it will be a dark and twisted story, only I didn't expect to be that dark and twisted... I don't enjoy that much second chance romance stories, but this one was actually very good.
Avery and Bunny had the missed fortune to be born in the wrong families and fell in love when they were just kids. Their fathers were best friends and they were doing business together (human trafficking, kidnapped, raped and sold girls, and that's if the girls were still alive). After Bunny's parents were killed, Bunny and her brother came to live with the Deker's, Avery's family.
Avery's and Bunny's love was so pure and innocent, they loved each other very much, but apparently, their love wasn't strong enough to survive the darkness and the bad world they lived in. So they broke up with their heart and soul broken in millions of pieces.
13 years had passed, and Avery considered that the time for his revenge has come. The Bunny he knows, HIS Bunny does no longer exist. This new Bunny is a real mess but she is much stronger. No more pure and innocent... As much as they loved each other 13 years ago, as much they hate each other now, but they can stay away from one another.
Avery as a character was...OMG... I have a new book boyfriend, a new CRUSH. He was a real badass. He is HOT. I liked his determination, his power. Although he hates Bunny, he can't stay away from her, he still loves her, even if he doesn't want to admit it. He loves her beyond himself.
Bunny as a character was a great character, my favorite type of heroine. In the past, she was sweet and innocent, but after her heart was broken and her life was destroyed, she became a lioness. A real badass. She defies Avery at every step. She was so smart and clever. Every time Avery thought he had her under control, Bunny proved him wrong, so wrong. And were many times...believe me.
The book was awesome from all points of view, dark, twisted, mindfuck, hot, lovely, sweet, mystery, action, suspense, even funny. Bunny was a crazy girl. I really loved her and Avery... I still have to know all the secrets and mystery, to find more. More about Avery and Bunny and especially to know better Avery's brother.I highly recommend! ❤️
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October 17, 2018
Where his woman is concerned Avery is like a bull in a china shop, "I point the gun at his face and cock it. “You have two options— move or die.” My voice is even and so is my breathing." When his woman is p****d she is p****d, “to bed. And don’t bother coming after you’re done torturing some sorry b****rd,” she snaps. “You can sleep in your dungeon!” She opens the door and then slams it shut." I liked this book, it's very dark and it makes you question what the eff a lot but I still love Avery and his sicko ways.
October 21, 2018
Sinfully dark and delicious this book takes you on a ride, of subjects so dark and twisted you will want to read with the light on and a therapist on call. If you like twisted up worlds, with mind games, suspense, action, and heartbreak, this is for you. The story is so sharp it's like walking on a razors edge. The characters are so real the world in which they live, is right outside the door.
The plot, pacing and all the words, are amazing. This is really some top notch writing. I couldn't put the book down, and read it in a day. I was kept flipping pages well after midnight. The utter heartbreak, devastation, and redemption was gratifying to read. While you are dragged through the darkness, there is a light at the end of the tunnel. I feel like I don't have the words to describe this book well enough, which is why I am not a writer, but a reader and lover of books.
If you like a dark, twisted tale of greed, loathing, hate, and desperation, this is the book for you. This story is told in dual pov.
The plot, pacing and all the words, are amazing. This is really some top notch writing. I couldn't put the book down, and read it in a day. I was kept flipping pages well after midnight. The utter heartbreak, devastation, and redemption was gratifying to read. While you are dragged through the darkness, there is a light at the end of the tunnel. I feel like I don't have the words to describe this book well enough, which is why I am not a writer, but a reader and lover of books.
If you like a dark, twisted tale of greed, loathing, hate, and desperation, this is the book for you. This story is told in dual pov.
May 22, 2019
It's the second book I read from Shantel Tessier and I can tell both were kinda violent, with lots of kicking and beating and killing so vivid! Even her lovey-dovey stuff and romance are mixed with slapping and physical abuse. So it was a new kind of romance for me and a bit hard to get on with at first but the whole story and characters are so good and complicated enough for reader to keep going page after page.
And as ending's always very important for me, as to I want everything and everyone in a solid and defined position, I love this book's! something unexpected but really sweet and not cliche at all!
And as ending's always very important for me, as to I want everything and everyone in a solid and defined position, I love this book's! something unexpected but really sweet and not cliche at all!
October 26, 2018
"My name is Avery Decker, and my story isn’t for the faint of heart".
On boy, this is dark, this is gritty, this is raw, Slaughter is the kind of book you ask yourself, should I be enjoying this?
A dark tale of a teenage romance that goes so horribly wrong through lies and evil actions.
Avery's father is as evil as evil gets, he rapes, beats and turns women into slaves. When Presleigh's parents die she goes to live with her boyfriend Avery in the same house where they witness the battered women coming and going and some not leaving alive.
Avery and Presleigh are in love and dream of getting away from it all one day until a knife is thrust onto their relationship and they are separated.
11 years later and Avery finds Presleigh and takes her. Avery isn't the same boy she left years ago, he's the image of his father, dark, unforgiving, filled with hate towards Presleigh who left him years ago without explanation and he plans to make her suffer.
Lies, danger, twists and turns and gritty scenes of rape and violence, it truly is a dark read and in the middle of it all a heartfelt romance.
For dark romance lovers Shantel Tessier does not disappoint, Slaughter is full of suspense and nail-biting scenes.
I was hooked from beginning to end with a hope for a happy ending driving me forward.
Told in first persons dual pov. Can be read as a standalone, the next book is Avery' s brother Tristan and I hope to see more of a hea for Avery and Presleigh in the next book.
Arc received for review purposes
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On boy, this is dark, this is gritty, this is raw, Slaughter is the kind of book you ask yourself, should I be enjoying this?
A dark tale of a teenage romance that goes so horribly wrong through lies and evil actions.
Avery's father is as evil as evil gets, he rapes, beats and turns women into slaves. When Presleigh's parents die she goes to live with her boyfriend Avery in the same house where they witness the battered women coming and going and some not leaving alive.
Avery and Presleigh are in love and dream of getting away from it all one day until a knife is thrust onto their relationship and they are separated.
11 years later and Avery finds Presleigh and takes her. Avery isn't the same boy she left years ago, he's the image of his father, dark, unforgiving, filled with hate towards Presleigh who left him years ago without explanation and he plans to make her suffer.
Lies, danger, twists and turns and gritty scenes of rape and violence, it truly is a dark read and in the middle of it all a heartfelt romance.
For dark romance lovers Shantel Tessier does not disappoint, Slaughter is full of suspense and nail-biting scenes.
I was hooked from beginning to end with a hope for a happy ending driving me forward.
Told in first persons dual pov. Can be read as a standalone, the next book is Avery' s brother Tristan and I hope to see more of a hea for Avery and Presleigh in the next book.
Arc received for review purposes
Http://www.bbbf-sizzlereads-bestbookb...
LIVE & FREE in KU! Check out this GIVEAWAY!
Amazon US- https://amzn.to/2Apehzy
Amazon UK- https://amzn.to/2PMJodD
Amazon CA- https://amzn.to/2q6dXzU
October 21, 2018
Revenge, hatred, misery and violence it says in the blurb and Oh boy it's not wrong! I stopped reading the blurb after I had read that and thought I have just got to read this story. I will say it was what I was expecting and much more!
Avery and Presleigh are the main characters and I love them both. I felt everything they felt and sometimes my heart hurt for them. They were childhood sweethearts, thinking they were going to spend the rest of their lives together only to have it ripped apart. Eleven years later, their paths cross and Avery is intent on making Presleigh pay for destroying him all those years ago. But not everything is at it seems as they are both to discover.
This is a gripping story and not for the faint-hearted. I can not wait for the next book to come out so I can read Avery's brother Tristan's story. If you like a dark read then don't miss this one; one click now!
Avery and Presleigh are the main characters and I love them both. I felt everything they felt and sometimes my heart hurt for them. They were childhood sweethearts, thinking they were going to spend the rest of their lives together only to have it ripped apart. Eleven years later, their paths cross and Avery is intent on making Presleigh pay for destroying him all those years ago. But not everything is at it seems as they are both to discover.
This is a gripping story and not for the faint-hearted. I can not wait for the next book to come out so I can read Avery's brother Tristan's story. If you like a dark read then don't miss this one; one click now!
January 27, 2019
This is freaking crazy good!
This book is seriously super dark! I was shocked so many times with all the darkness that came from this author. I have read a couple dark books by Shantel but this one took the cake! Avery and Presleigh is a dark story you don't want to miss.
Go into this story blind like I did! I had no idea what I was getting into and I'm glad I did! There is twists and so much more! Oh and if you are a die hard fan of Shantel's like me, you will be gitty when the club Seven Deadly Sins club is mentioned!
This book is seriously super dark! I was shocked so many times with all the darkness that came from this author. I have read a couple dark books by Shantel but this one took the cake! Avery and Presleigh is a dark story you don't want to miss.
Go into this story blind like I did! I had no idea what I was getting into and I'm glad I did! There is twists and so much more! Oh and if you are a die hard fan of Shantel's like me, you will be gitty when the club Seven Deadly Sins club is mentioned!
October 21, 2018
Sweet holy hell. I first discovered this author from her book I Dare You. I thought that the book was dark and twisted. It had nothing on that book. NOTHING. This book was like going straight to Anal without any foreplay, preparation, and sandy lube. There are triggers. A LOT of them. This is definitely not for the faint of heart. Yet, The author depicts a tale that had me riveted. The characters were well developed. The players in the story (the good and bad) all had a purpose and set the foundation of the story to one filled with suspense, horror, and even love. As a reader, I never knew who I could trust and who I couldn't. It was a constant guessing game trying to figure out how all these pieces fit together and ultimately what the outcome would be.
Presleigh. Sweet lord. The things that this woman went through. She is a testament to the strength of women though because I would have either have drunk myself to death or overdosed because there would be no amount of mind-altering substances that could have made me numb enough. Hell, I am not sure that even the weather in Antartica could have truly gotten me to the point of numbness that would be needed to overcome what she went through. Avery. This guy. Half the time I hated him. The other half the time I wanted to marry him. He is not your typical dream man. He isn't even a good guy for the most part. Yet, I found myself drawn to him like a moth to the flame. Once I started unraveling the pieces of this story and started figuring things out then I was okay in knowing that I had developed a mad crush on him. I was debating on upping my therapy to weekly instead of monthly. The steamy times in this book are brutal. They are gritty, hardcore, and brutal. Yet, it works in this story because this is not your typical love story and sugary sweet wouldn't fit for these characters.
I thank my lucky stars that I discovered this amazing author and that she decided to spread her wings and come to the Darkside. I cannot wait to see what she has in store for her readers in the future. I will just make sure that I have plenty of wine on hand for the next one though because she has me hooked. This book is in my top favorite reads of 2018. Also, I just have to commend the author on this cover. The look on the model's face is 100% how I picture Avery in my head (smug/.cocky bastage).
Presleigh. Sweet lord. The things that this woman went through. She is a testament to the strength of women though because I would have either have drunk myself to death or overdosed because there would be no amount of mind-altering substances that could have made me numb enough. Hell, I am not sure that even the weather in Antartica could have truly gotten me to the point of numbness that would be needed to overcome what she went through. Avery. This guy. Half the time I hated him. The other half the time I wanted to marry him. He is not your typical dream man. He isn't even a good guy for the most part. Yet, I found myself drawn to him like a moth to the flame. Once I started unraveling the pieces of this story and started figuring things out then I was okay in knowing that I had developed a mad crush on him. I was debating on upping my therapy to weekly instead of monthly. The steamy times in this book are brutal. They are gritty, hardcore, and brutal. Yet, it works in this story because this is not your typical love story and sugary sweet wouldn't fit for these characters.
I thank my lucky stars that I discovered this amazing author and that she decided to spread her wings and come to the Darkside. I cannot wait to see what she has in store for her readers in the future. I will just make sure that I have plenty of wine on hand for the next one though because she has me hooked. This book is in my top favorite reads of 2018. Also, I just have to commend the author on this cover. The look on the model's face is 100% how I picture Avery in my head (smug/.cocky bastage).
October 19, 2018
This love story is ugly. But it's ours. - Presleigh
This was amazing, I am going to have such a major book-hangover from this - I just KNOW it. This is the second time in such a short amount of time, that this author has thrown me in a total book-slump!! But like the glutton for punishment I am, I'll be waiting at the front of the line for her next release.
I'm a huge fan of dark romances (darker the better, baby), and this one just made a permanent spot in my all-time-favourites bookshelf. I read this book so fast, I had to re-read it again almost immediately. So for all of my dark romance lovers out there just like me, READ THIS BOOK!
I once loved her, but she cured me of that disease. - Avery
Love, Heartache, Lies, Betrayal and REVENGE. This book had it all to make a solid 5-Star read for me.
Presleigh and Avery's story was heartbreakingly beautiful, it that's is even possible. Childhood loves forced into a dark world by their fathers at such young ages. I wanted to cry during some of the small "flashbacks" into their pasts, my heart hurt for them. Shantel did an incredible job at holding the readers' attention with every word, I was constantly changing my mind on what I thought would happen with every chapter I read.
My first Shantel Tessier experience was her book I Dare You, if you haven't read it already - then I HIGHLY suggest you do! This author's writing is nothing short of captivating, so it's no surprise that yet again I was hooked on each word from start to finish. I love the twists, the darkness and the storyline. Sex scenes are pretty hot too.... I can't wait for more!
January 17, 2021
2.5 stars
I really wanted to love this book. It had all the ingredients but fell flat for me.
Started strong and then it just became repetitive. Fighting, abusing, humiliating or fucking. The story just wasn't moving forward.
I didn't warm to Avery the mmc or Presleigh the fmc. Avery was just cold and self righteous and filled with so much hate. The only thing we really learnt about Presleigh was she liked sex and being a slave to get turned on..
And the way Avery carried on when Presleigh was stolen from him and raped and beaten... well guess fucking what dude, its what you have been doing to her the whole time yourself.
This is a darker read with trigger warnings needed but to me it was not gripping at all
I really wanted to love this book. It had all the ingredients but fell flat for me.
Started strong and then it just became repetitive. Fighting, abusing, humiliating or fucking. The story just wasn't moving forward.
I didn't warm to Avery the mmc or Presleigh the fmc. Avery was just cold and self righteous and filled with so much hate. The only thing we really learnt about Presleigh was she liked sex and being a slave to get turned on..
And the way Avery carried on when Presleigh was stolen from him and raped and beaten... well guess fucking what dude, its what you have been doing to her the whole time yourself.
This is a darker read with trigger warnings needed but to me it was not gripping at all
October 26, 2018
This is one twisted, dark love story.
When Avery and Presleigh were teenagers in love they were the most normal ones of their families. Which is a whole bowl of crazy. Then life got twisted for them and turned them into totally different people. Ones that neither of them recognize after 11 years.
Most of the first part of the book I just wanted to cry for Presleigh or Bunny as Avery calls her. Meanwhile I wanted to slap Avery. He keeps her as his slave to protect her but torments for his own revenge.
This books sends you on many wild rides that you are almost always expecting the worst case scenario. Presleigh is one of the strongest heroines I have ever read. When you learn about her past and then see what she has to overcome you will agree with me. It’s a must read.
One of my many favorites from the book.
“ ..... we’re just two people who love one another in a way that most will never understand. It’s messy. But the most beautiful things are never just handed over to you wrapped up in a bow. It takes tears and sweat to get what you want. Even blood. And I’d bleed for this man. All he’d have to do is ask. ‘Cause I know without a shadow to doubt that he would do the same for me. “ -Presleigh
When Avery and Presleigh were teenagers in love they were the most normal ones of their families. Which is a whole bowl of crazy. Then life got twisted for them and turned them into totally different people. Ones that neither of them recognize after 11 years.
Most of the first part of the book I just wanted to cry for Presleigh or Bunny as Avery calls her. Meanwhile I wanted to slap Avery. He keeps her as his slave to protect her but torments for his own revenge.
This books sends you on many wild rides that you are almost always expecting the worst case scenario. Presleigh is one of the strongest heroines I have ever read. When you learn about her past and then see what she has to overcome you will agree with me. It’s a must read.
One of my many favorites from the book.
“ ..... we’re just two people who love one another in a way that most will never understand. It’s messy. But the most beautiful things are never just handed over to you wrapped up in a bow. It takes tears and sweat to get what you want. Even blood. And I’d bleed for this man. All he’d have to do is ask. ‘Cause I know without a shadow to doubt that he would do the same for me. “ -Presleigh
October 21, 2018
Angst 4
Tears 0
Value 5
Storyline 4
Panty Scorching 4
Overall Rating 4.5
Holy hells bells!! What a freakin ride I just went on!! One I freakin loved. This book was packed with action. Not just the steamy kind either. Two words to describe this book would be dark and delicious. When I first read the blurb I knew I had to have this book immediately and it did not disappoint at all. Although it was a little darker than what I thought it would be. Which for me was freakin great! To me the darker the read the more I like it.
Slaughter is a fast pace read. Lots of stuff happening very quickly. That’s the only thing that tripped me up while reading. I would get going flipping pages and was like wait what!? But when I slowed down and went back I was like ohhhh okay. So it wasn’t that details were missing at all just that it’s super quick. I fell for Avery and Presleigh immediately. Their story isn’t one for hearts and flowers. It’s one for dark read lovers! Especially this dark read loving girl! Don’t miss this one!
Tears 0
Value 5
Storyline 4
Panty Scorching 4
Overall Rating 4.5
Holy hells bells!! What a freakin ride I just went on!! One I freakin loved. This book was packed with action. Not just the steamy kind either. Two words to describe this book would be dark and delicious. When I first read the blurb I knew I had to have this book immediately and it did not disappoint at all. Although it was a little darker than what I thought it would be. Which for me was freakin great! To me the darker the read the more I like it.
Slaughter is a fast pace read. Lots of stuff happening very quickly. That’s the only thing that tripped me up while reading. I would get going flipping pages and was like wait what!? But when I slowed down and went back I was like ohhhh okay. So it wasn’t that details were missing at all just that it’s super quick. I fell for Avery and Presleigh immediately. Their story isn’t one for hearts and flowers. It’s one for dark read lovers! Especially this dark read loving girl! Don’t miss this one!
October 21, 2018
This book is dark, so dark & yet a beautiful love story all wrapped in black with a blood red bow! Avery & Presleigh (such a beautifully different name, loved it!) are childhood friends, who have everything changed bc they are born into evil. No matter how people are raised; how we are raised & treated can change us. The changes these two endured, the hurt, the pain; make them into such different people, yet the same. The twists, the turns have u wondering what will happen next. This book asks u the question happily ever after? What? U are questioning everything, even after u read the epilogue u will question, wonder not knowing which way is up. This author is fantastic at making us question everything we just read, giving us a book hangover like no author I’ve read before! I highly recommend this book. It is a must read & u will not understand this review until u read it urself.
Told in dual POV.
Told in dual POV.
October 21, 2018
I am not a dark book reader. I am however, I huge Shantel Tessier fan. I love each and every book of hers, so I knew a needed to give this a try. There was a few times I was going to stop reading this, but I kept going and OMG thank goodness I did. This story was amazing. The imagination and creativity is like no other. Avery and Presleighs story is incredible. Not your typical fairytale. These 2 kids have been through hell and back, but they are strong and determined to fight, no matter how many roadblocks life gives them. It’s like no other. It’s ugly and beautiful all at the same time. I love these characters so much. This book is heartbreaking and funny and crazy and twisted and I loved everything about it. Give it a chance, even if you’re not a dark reader, You’ll be happy you did.
October 21, 2018
Completely blown away. What a tangled web one weaves. I’m still sitting here trying to wrap my head around what I just read. And honestly my thoughts are all over the place. This book is not for the faint of heart. It’s the only book I’ve read so far that is absolutely dark and twisted. This had me pausing so many times to try to gather my thoughts. My heart broke over and over and I cried for Presleigh. And then I found myself crying for Avery. Two young kids completely in love with each other only to be torn apart by a sick, twisted, sadistic individual. But as you dig further into the story the things Presleigh went through punches you right in the gut. This is one of those books that completely sucks you in and breaks your heart with each twist and turn this story takes you on. This book was so incredible, my heart is still pounding.
October 19, 2018
I fell in love with Shantel Tessier's darker side after reading I dare You. With Slaughter Ms. Tessier once again introduces us to a thrilling dark ride where the heroine is no shrinking violet and the anti-hero is going to make your blood run cold. This book is dark, gritty and full of triggers. The heroine is definitely put though the wringer and then some. I loved her strength even in face of all the atrocities she's had to live through. I really enjoyed the glimpses of Avery and Presleigh's past and seeing the way their love story developed. Avery is just the kind of anti-hero that will make you fall in love with him despite yourself. In this book most things are not what they seem, it's heavy on the plot and has a great cast of secondary characters. Overall, a great entertaining read for those who are not afraid to walk on the dark side.
October 22, 2018
The author gave a warning advising this story would be darker the her other books and boy oh boy did she bring it, this book is deliciously dark.
I was hooked on Presley and Avery's story from the start. I could tell it was going to be something special I simply could not put it down. A complicated love story full of pain mystery and deceit. It's a dark and twisted tale that is so compelling. I can't guarantee you will like the main characters or their actions but you won't be able to stop reading to see what happens next.
Five magnificently twisted stars.
Reviewed for CherryOBlossoms Promotions
I was hooked on Presley and Avery's story from the start. I could tell it was going to be something special I simply could not put it down. A complicated love story full of pain mystery and deceit. It's a dark and twisted tale that is so compelling. I can't guarantee you will like the main characters or their actions but you won't be able to stop reading to see what happens next.
Five magnificently twisted stars.
Reviewed for CherryOBlossoms Promotions
October 19, 2018
5 big slaughter stars
Can I just say I am loving Shantel's dark side? this book is so good. Right from the start, I was hooked Avery and Pres Story will pull you in and not let go till the last word. It is twisted it is dark full of mystery. it will have you on the edge of your seat wondering how it all going play out and let me tell you what a ride it is..
You just feel for both these characters.
Great characters to both love and hate. the writing is brilliant I can't wait for Tristan and Chloe's book it going be so good. I highly recommend the book it is so good.
Can I just say I am loving Shantel's dark side? this book is so good. Right from the start, I was hooked Avery and Pres Story will pull you in and not let go till the last word. It is twisted it is dark full of mystery. it will have you on the edge of your seat wondering how it all going play out and let me tell you what a ride it is..
You just feel for both these characters.
Great characters to both love and hate. the writing is brilliant I can't wait for Tristan and Chloe's book it going be so good. I highly recommend the book it is so good.
October 19, 2018
I didn’t know what to expect from this story. It’s a dark twisted love story that has so many aspects to the story. I never knew how things would turn out. Presleigh is such a stong but broken soul who has gone through horrific things but is stronger because of it. Avery is such a hot alpha with a really dark past but I couldn’t not love him! Anyone who reads this needs to look past the darkness because yes it has some really dark parts but it is worth it to find out the ending!!
October 20, 2018
Holy black soul! I literally could not put the book down, I loved every bit of it even when I knew I shouldn’t! This is one of the books that you spend the majority of it on the edge of your seat! If you love dark books, then this is one for you. If you don’t normally read dark books, get reading now and you’ll get hooked. Shantel has done it again, I’ll be following her religiously, making sure I buy her books as soon as she writes them. P.S. give me more!!! 😂
October 21, 2018
Um holy cow this is def a dark read and it is def not a light read at all! Two people not supposed to be together finds away to be but some things happen in the past! Presleigh runs into Avery years later and he literally kidnapps her! What In the world! I loved this dark read!! Presleigh and Avery just wow! And can’t wait to read Tristan & Chloe next!
October 24, 2018
Holy frigging crap!! I absolutely loved this book! I don’t even know what to say!! It was dark, and so damn twisted!! I was hooked from the first page!!
October 18, 2018
I LOVE AVERY! This book is twisted in the most delicious ways, Avery and Presleigh's journey is insane and you are trying to keep up with their madness. The story is cloaked in darkness, mystery and sexyness. When you get to the end you are brought to amazing understanding of everything while exhaling from hold your breath the entire time. Bravo Shantel, cant wait for more Dark!
October 23, 2018
Angst 4
Tears 0
Value 5
Storyline 4
Panty Scorching 4
Overall Rating 4.5
Kindle eArc provided by Author
Reviewed by Lindsey
Holy hells bells!! What a freakin' ride I just went on!! One I freakin' loved. This book was packed with action. Not just the steamy kind either. Two words to describe this book would be dark and delicious. When I first read the blurb I knew I had to have this book immediately, and it did not disappoint at all. Although it was a little darker than what I thought it would be. Which for me was freakin' great! To me the darker the read the more I like it.
Slaughter is a fast pace read. Lots of stuff happening very quickly. That’s the only thing that tripped me up while reading. I would get going flipping pages and was like wait...what!? But when I slowed down and went back I was like ohhhh okay. So it wasn’t that details were missing at all just that it’s super quick. I fell for Avery and Presleigh immediately. Their story isn’t one for hearts and flowers. It’s one for dark read lovers! Especially this dark read loving girl! Don’t miss this one!
Panty Scorching - 2
Angst - 3
Tissues - 0
Storyline - 4
Value - 4
Overall - 4
Kindle eArc provided by Author
Reviewed by Ladyballs
Presleigh and Avery are childhood sweethearts who were born into evil families. From a young age, they are exposed to violence and brutality against women and young girls. Presleigh is disgusted by it and Avery is forced to join in.
After a separation, these two once soulmates have nothing but hatred for each other and have years for it to build and smolder. Avery’s actions towards Presleigh were borderline disturbing to me. He is violent, abusive and demeaning to her. I get he is hurt and there are more extenuating circumstances to both of their sides but after all these years it just seemed to be fresh in their minds.
It was very dark…a little too dark for me but the basis of the two lovers coming back together and the truth coming out was something I enjoyed but just not so much the brutality. If you're looking for a dark, violent book this would be your jam.
Tears 0
Value 5
Storyline 4
Panty Scorching 4
Overall Rating 4.5
Kindle eArc provided by Author
Reviewed by Lindsey
Holy hells bells!! What a freakin' ride I just went on!! One I freakin' loved. This book was packed with action. Not just the steamy kind either. Two words to describe this book would be dark and delicious. When I first read the blurb I knew I had to have this book immediately, and it did not disappoint at all. Although it was a little darker than what I thought it would be. Which for me was freakin' great! To me the darker the read the more I like it.
Slaughter is a fast pace read. Lots of stuff happening very quickly. That’s the only thing that tripped me up while reading. I would get going flipping pages and was like wait...what!? But when I slowed down and went back I was like ohhhh okay. So it wasn’t that details were missing at all just that it’s super quick. I fell for Avery and Presleigh immediately. Their story isn’t one for hearts and flowers. It’s one for dark read lovers! Especially this dark read loving girl! Don’t miss this one!
Panty Scorching - 2
Angst - 3
Tissues - 0
Storyline - 4
Value - 4
Overall - 4
Kindle eArc provided by Author
Reviewed by Ladyballs
Presleigh and Avery are childhood sweethearts who were born into evil families. From a young age, they are exposed to violence and brutality against women and young girls. Presleigh is disgusted by it and Avery is forced to join in.
After a separation, these two once soulmates have nothing but hatred for each other and have years for it to build and smolder. Avery’s actions towards Presleigh were borderline disturbing to me. He is violent, abusive and demeaning to her. I get he is hurt and there are more extenuating circumstances to both of their sides but after all these years it just seemed to be fresh in their minds.
It was very dark…a little too dark for me but the basis of the two lovers coming back together and the truth coming out was something I enjoyed but just not so much the brutality. If you're looking for a dark, violent book this would be your jam.
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