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Darkness Duet #1
When Darkness Consumes
All it took was one night to turn her life upside down.
With a drunken mother and an absent father, Lydia Benson finds herself alone in the world, picking up the pieces as she goes. Until she meets Ryder Owens, who threatens to break down every wall she's built.
With more secrets than one can count, Ryder's mysterious past hides them well. But secrets can only be hidden for so long. With an undeniable force between them, together they fall, hitting every obstacle on the way down.
Until that one earth-shattering night.
The night that rips the ground from beneath their feet.
The night when darkness consumes.
With a drunken mother and an absent father, Lydia Benson finds herself alone in the world, picking up the pieces as she goes. Until she meets Ryder Owens, who threatens to break down every wall she's built.
With more secrets than one can count, Ryder's mysterious past hides them well. But secrets can only be hidden for so long. With an undeniable force between them, together they fall, hitting every obstacle on the way down.
Until that one earth-shattering night.
The night that rips the ground from beneath their feet.
The night when darkness consumes.
276 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 1, 2019
63 people are currently reading
471 people want to read
About the author
C.M. Radcliff
27 books1,016 followersC.M. Radcliff writes dark, toxic romance with a touch of suspense. She lives in Pennsylvania with her husband and two kids. If she isn't reading or writing, she's probably on a little adventure with her family.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews
August 5, 2017
3.75 'betrayal goes deep' stars
This was a new author for me...
and this is her debut novel...
and the warning in the book says...God, you gotta love these warnings LOL they are so tempting for brreaking...*wink*
Due to use of profanity, vulgarity, and graphic sexual content and violence, this book is not intended for anyone under the age of eighteen
Well, it definitely lived up to the words in a warning...
BUT it also felt like there was smth missing...
The story
There are many layers to this one, as we follow the unraveling of one girl's destined path from personal tragedy, finding herself then abruptly being ripped off from everything from not quite understandable reasons...she's tormented, violated sexually, physically and emotionally all cause of the intetwined pasts her father made linking her with her abusers in the most intimate ways-the ways of kinship-of which she wasn't aware off...
The game of torture only turns more ugly when she realizes that the person she gave her heart to, was in fact connected to this devious ploy and yet she never got the answers to the most pertinent of questions: WHY?!
As the end of the books nears, the more open and unanswered lines pop up ahead preparing us for the next installment...
Cause after all she has been through, the petson she trusted let her down and betrayed her more than she physically endured...and the loss and emptiness inside will only make it harder for her to find herself again...to find the meaning and sense to it all...and not to mention to fact that forgivness won't come lightly either...
The day she came back to me was the same day that I lost her.
Well, at least it wouldn't come as easy, if i were to orchestrate the whole scenario...yeah, in my book there would be some nasty fucked up revengeful shit...i'd raise a hellstorm upon them all...
But it's yet to be seen, where the author will take us in the continuation of the darkness...will there be a light ahead or will it all sink lower into the dark pit of human existence?
My impressions
I love discovering new authors! There's a certain thrill and excitement to the whole process. And when I do in fact find a treasure I tend to keep it.
This book had a huge potential, and it most certainly delivered at certain highlight points in the story which i took into consideration while writing this review.
The descriptions of torment and the psychological aspect and the state of the victim was vividly presented and credible which i appreciated as a huge plus.
The writing style is fluent, and the story unravels easy even though i found the sentences a bit shorter in structure than I have encountered so far in other books. And I think that was somewhat one of the the reasons why certain parts felt rushed and non-explanaitory enough, therefore being less credible in presentation of deeper emotional connection between the main characters in the first part of the book.
I acknowledge the idea, the descriptive 'dark' segments, but I would also like to give a little advice of 'bringing more emotional connection' and deeper notion of palpable interactions between the characters to make the whole experience vivid and credible.
I am really looking forward to seeing the development in the future installments of this author's wide span of imagination.
***COPY provided by the author in exchange for an honest review***
February 2, 2021
This story started a bit slow for me, but when the plot picked up and intensified - Wow, I was hooked.C.M. Radcliff is quickly becoming one of my go to authors for reads!
This was dark and twisted, with romance intertwined. There are some for sure triggers so you're warned!
My heart broke for Lydia. I can't imagine... It was gut wrenching at times and I wanted to curl up in the corner and cry. I knew I had to be strong and continue on... Just like her.
She had it all, until she didn't. She loses everyone close to here - either by death or by them plain just checking out. She finds herself just existing and not really living.
Ryder comes into the picture and brings a bit of sunshine to her dark days. She doesn't want to fall for him, but it's hard not to. He is there for her when no one else really is. It's easy to fall into "something" because he's around. There are things that he isn't sharing with her that could change the course for them.
Things aren't what they seem though AT ALL. Secrets and revenge. Heartache and betrayal. Lies and Truth.
The end of the book will blast you with so many emotions. Buckle up and hang on.
I'm not sure how anything can good could ever be resurrected from the ashes of this. So much hurt and suffering. So many words left unspoken.
Hope for some much needed happiness in book 2!
This was dark and twisted, with romance intertwined. There are some for sure triggers so you're warned!
My heart broke for Lydia. I can't imagine... It was gut wrenching at times and I wanted to curl up in the corner and cry. I knew I had to be strong and continue on... Just like her.
She had it all, until she didn't. She loses everyone close to here - either by death or by them plain just checking out. She finds herself just existing and not really living.
Ryder comes into the picture and brings a bit of sunshine to her dark days. She doesn't want to fall for him, but it's hard not to. He is there for her when no one else really is. It's easy to fall into "something" because he's around. There are things that he isn't sharing with her that could change the course for them.
Things aren't what they seem though AT ALL. Secrets and revenge. Heartache and betrayal. Lies and Truth.
The end of the book will blast you with so many emotions. Buckle up and hang on.
I'm not sure how anything can good could ever be resurrected from the ashes of this. So much hurt and suffering. So many words left unspoken.
Hope for some much needed happiness in book 2!
February 16, 2019
This book started off so good! It had me hook, line and sinker from the first few words. But while it caught me from the beginning, it dozed off pretty quick after that for me. I had a hard time connecting with the characters and their emotions about 20% into the book. Parts of the book felt forced and rushed and I couldn't understand how quickly things were going. I didn't understand the relationship between the main characters because there was so many questions that were left unsaid, so many things to be discussed and I feel like it was just overlooked just so they could get together.
However, I was pleasantly surprised by the plot twists that came completely out of left field. The last 40% of the book surprised me and drew me right back in. I was on the edge of my seat and couldn't stop reading. I devoured the rest of the book. I am a dark romance junkie so this one really surprised me. I can't wait to read the next book and find out what happens next.
However, I was pleasantly surprised by the plot twists that came completely out of left field. The last 40% of the book surprised me and drew me right back in. I was on the edge of my seat and couldn't stop reading. I devoured the rest of the book. I am a dark romance junkie so this one really surprised me. I can't wait to read the next book and find out what happens next.
June 24, 2018
What the hell did I just read?!?!?! 10+ stars deserved!!
Oh, my goodness! C.M. Radcliff is a GENIUS at writing dark stories. This woman needs all the recognition in the world.
Wow! I am left speechless with this book.
When Darkness Consumes took me on a ride I haven’t been on in a while.
I wanted to throttle everyone and hug everyone. I wanted to cry and scream. I had anxiety reading this!
You know just by the title that this book is going to be dark.
But, going in, I didn’t expect to get attacked the way I did.
Here I thought I was reading about one type of darkness and whoooosssshhhhh something completely different happens that leaves my mouth gaping open.
I was trying to over analyze everything in to book. I couldn’t trust anymore. Where were these characters coming from and why were they all so sketchy to me?! It was just an epic mind **** and I absolutely loved EVERY SINGLE MINUTE OF IT.
There’s one point in the book that will make you feel like the rug was just snatched away from under you and you fall and smack your ass hard on the ground.
That’s how I felt when it happened. I wish I could review this book with a little less vagueness, but it is absolutely impossible to do without giving anything away.
Just, trust me, ok? You’re going to want to read this book!!
Wow.... the darkness officially consumed me... COMPLETELY.
Oh, my goodness! C.M. Radcliff is a GENIUS at writing dark stories. This woman needs all the recognition in the world.
Wow! I am left speechless with this book.
When Darkness Consumes took me on a ride I haven’t been on in a while.
I wanted to throttle everyone and hug everyone. I wanted to cry and scream. I had anxiety reading this!
You know just by the title that this book is going to be dark.
But, going in, I didn’t expect to get attacked the way I did.
Here I thought I was reading about one type of darkness and whoooosssshhhhh something completely different happens that leaves my mouth gaping open.
I was trying to over analyze everything in to book. I couldn’t trust anymore. Where were these characters coming from and why were they all so sketchy to me?! It was just an epic mind **** and I absolutely loved EVERY SINGLE MINUTE OF IT.
There’s one point in the book that will make you feel like the rug was just snatched away from under you and you fall and smack your ass hard on the ground.
That’s how I felt when it happened. I wish I could review this book with a little less vagueness, but it is absolutely impossible to do without giving anything away.
Just, trust me, ok? You’re going to want to read this book!!
Wow.... the darkness officially consumed me... COMPLETELY.
March 10, 2019
1.5 stars
At first I liked it but grew to hate it more with every page I read. Lydia's brother had died. Her father was never around. Her mother was having a mental breakdown. Then she met a mysterious guy who had a connection to her brother. Ryder was always a dick. His and Lydia's relationship drama was obnoxious. All she ever did was jump to conclusions when it came to him. He was secretive and a liar, but she didn't even try to uncover the truth. She came to conclusions based on half-assed information.
Granted I didn't trust Ryder by the end.
The reasons behind the kidnapping were absolutely ridiculous. It took so long for Lydia to figure it out even though with the hints they were dropping it was plain as day what their motivations were. I didn't enjoy reading about her torture especially since it seemed pointless. All of that made me hate Ryder for not doing more. Lydia seemed to like some of the people who held her captive because they didn't actively participate in her torture and fed her. They didn't do shit to help her, which IMO makes them just as complicit as the ones doing her harm.
At first I liked it but grew to hate it more with every page I read. Lydia's brother had died. Her father was never around. Her mother was having a mental breakdown. Then she met a mysterious guy who had a connection to her brother. Ryder was always a dick. His and Lydia's relationship drama was obnoxious. All she ever did was jump to conclusions when it came to him. He was secretive and a liar, but she didn't even try to uncover the truth. She came to conclusions based on half-assed information.
Granted I didn't trust Ryder by the end.
The reasons behind the kidnapping were absolutely ridiculous. It took so long for Lydia to figure it out even though with the hints they were dropping it was plain as day what their motivations were. I didn't enjoy reading about her torture especially since it seemed pointless. All of that made me hate Ryder for not doing more. Lydia seemed to like some of the people who held her captive because they didn't actively participate in her torture and fed her. They didn't do shit to help her, which IMO makes them just as complicit as the ones doing her harm.
September 18, 2017
Sometimes it's a struggle to put your emotions and feelings into words after reading a book....and this book 100% leaves me feeling this way. But I wouldn't change anything!!!
An emotional roller coaster of epic proportions.....this book was wildly captivating and completely unpredictable. I never imagined as I was reading the bends and curves of the storyline the author brings you. I was wrenched one way, and then the other way, time and time again. The push and pull was over powering my heart with each page. People you hated you began to love, people you loved you began to hate...and with THE MOTHER OF ALL CLIFFHANGERS....you will be left grasping for straws trying to determine what....just....happened!!!!!!!!
If you like a legit emotional read that takes a dark and twisty turn out of nowhere and when you least expect it....then yes my friends...this is a must read for you!!!!
Kel
Kel And Mel Tell Book Blog
An emotional roller coaster of epic proportions.....this book was wildly captivating and completely unpredictable. I never imagined as I was reading the bends and curves of the storyline the author brings you. I was wrenched one way, and then the other way, time and time again. The push and pull was over powering my heart with each page. People you hated you began to love, people you loved you began to hate...and with THE MOTHER OF ALL CLIFFHANGERS....you will be left grasping for straws trying to determine what....just....happened!!!!!!!!
If you like a legit emotional read that takes a dark and twisty turn out of nowhere and when you least expect it....then yes my friends...this is a must read for you!!!!
Kel
Kel And Mel Tell Book Blog
December 18, 2018
This is the first book I have read from this author, the book is good really good it has some dark twist and turns in it.
At first I felt the book was a little slow for me but then the book got really good and bam you get hooked and wanted to find out what the hell was going on. I’m not a huge fan of Ryder to me he seem a little infuriating and didn’t fight for Lydia. The book ends in a cliffhanger have to jump to book 2 to find out what happens next.
At first I felt the book was a little slow for me but then the book got really good and bam you get hooked and wanted to find out what the hell was going on. I’m not a huge fan of Ryder to me he seem a little infuriating and didn’t fight for Lydia. The book ends in a cliffhanger have to jump to book 2 to find out what happens next.
June 12, 2018
This book is a lot darker than I was expecting. It even made me squirm at times. However, the darkness wasn't just thrown in carelessly, it served a purpose. I hate when I read books that just throw in dark parts in just for the heck of it. Radcliff did not do that. It was necessary for the story and her plot.
Lydia and Ryder give me serious whiplash with their emotions and relationship. By the time they finally figured out what the heck they were doing the crap hit the fan. It made me so sad for Lydia to discover everything she did.
Lydia--in a girl that is surrounded by darkness. She has had an incredible tragedy hit her family and in the midst of that she meets Ryder.
Ryder--is just a dark as Lydia for similar reasons and even though those reasons should keep him away from Lydia but he can't resist her.
The book left me broken in the end for both Lydia and Ryder for different reasons. They both deserved so much better than what they had suffered through. I'm hoping book two will bring everything back together. Overall, this book was well written and intriguing. I would recommend this book especially if you don't mind a little darker subject matter.
Lydia and Ryder give me serious whiplash with their emotions and relationship. By the time they finally figured out what the heck they were doing the crap hit the fan. It made me so sad for Lydia to discover everything she did.
Lydia--in a girl that is surrounded by darkness. She has had an incredible tragedy hit her family and in the midst of that she meets Ryder.
Ryder--is just a dark as Lydia for similar reasons and even though those reasons should keep him away from Lydia but he can't resist her.
The book left me broken in the end for both Lydia and Ryder for different reasons. They both deserved so much better than what they had suffered through. I'm hoping book two will bring everything back together. Overall, this book was well written and intriguing. I would recommend this book especially if you don't mind a little darker subject matter.
November 30, 2018
Wow...I plowed through this one - up until midnight last night because I couldn't put it down. The story was well written and had me guessing and trying to put the pieces together. I absolutely loved Ryder from the second he was introduced and blamed Lydia for about 99% of the issues they had...she just needed to listen!!! And oh my gawd Lydia...my heart was breaking for her. Starting with James, her mom and dad and straight through to Jared...him, I wanted to kill. What she went through at his hands, talk about a strong girl. Jury is still out on Griffin...I felt he had so many opportunities to help Lydia and make things right, yet he didn't - water and bread don't make a good guy! I'm hoping his reasoning will reveal itself at some point. I definitely have a lot of questions revolving around the secondary characters. I'm looking forward to diving into Returned to the Light to see how some things shake out!
September 4, 2020
This was my first read by this author and started my love for all her words . This story was tragic shocking emotional and left me speechless. This authors ability to tell a story and put you in the mindset of the lead characters is amazing! This story is dark twisted and emotional page turner. I need to read the next book ASAP ! Definite must read and this author is fast becoming one of my favorite one click authors out there !
January 21, 2019
Wow. This book pulled me in from the beginning. I loved Lydia and Ryders story. But also made me wary. Like who could I trust, would I like this person ect. What Lydia lives through is beyond words. She never let it break her at least not mentally. At least she took Griffins advice and shut down her brain. I couldn't put this book down. It was my first one by this author and I was hooked. I wanted to know how their story ended and who at that time ghost girl and griffin really were.
December 29, 2018
Couldn't put it down!
This book had my head spinning, my stomach dropping,and my heart breaking for the characters.
I didn't expect the level of darkness this book was building up to and was totally unprepared it. Complete mind fuck! Can't wait to read more from this author
This book had my head spinning, my stomach dropping,and my heart breaking for the characters.
I didn't expect the level of darkness this book was building up to and was totally unprepared it. Complete mind fuck! Can't wait to read more from this author
December 29, 2018
This was my first read by Radcliff, and I couldn't put this book down.
I was immediately hooked and drawn into Lydia’s story. I was rooting for her and Ryder from the beginning but also very skeptical. This book has you trusting no one, which speaks volumes on this authors ability to put you into the head of the heroine.
With every corner we’d turn, I’d wait with bated breath, because you could feel the tension looming…knowing it was all about to fall apart.
And boy does it.
I thought I was prepared. I wasn’t.
When the darkness comes I wept for Lydia. I wanted to turn my head and shield myself from the devastation, but like her, I had to endure. I longed for justice for her.
This book left me raw, empty, vulnerable and in so much pain. But, I think as the reader that’s exactly where I was supposed to be. You can’t read about what Lydia went through and not be put right into her mental state.
I’m still left with so many questions that need answered, but I know they’re coming.
I’m ready to watch Lydia rise from the ashes and get her revenge, because my GOD she deserves it.
I was immediately hooked and drawn into Lydia’s story. I was rooting for her and Ryder from the beginning but also very skeptical. This book has you trusting no one, which speaks volumes on this authors ability to put you into the head of the heroine.
With every corner we’d turn, I’d wait with bated breath, because you could feel the tension looming…knowing it was all about to fall apart.
And boy does it.
I thought I was prepared. I wasn’t.
When the darkness comes I wept for Lydia. I wanted to turn my head and shield myself from the devastation, but like her, I had to endure. I longed for justice for her.
This book left me raw, empty, vulnerable and in so much pain. But, I think as the reader that’s exactly where I was supposed to be. You can’t read about what Lydia went through and not be put right into her mental state.
I’m still left with so many questions that need answered, but I know they’re coming.
I’m ready to watch Lydia rise from the ashes and get her revenge, because my GOD she deserves it.
February 25, 2019
WARNING: This is not a standalone! This ends with a cliffhanger and continues in book #2 titled, RETURNED TO THE LIGHT!
Lydia‘s twin brother James is murdered leaving her family in shambles. Then she meets Ryder... What follows is not your typical or predictable romance. In fact, there’s nothing typical or predictable about this book. Not only must Lydia overcome her grief over the loss of her brother but there are others out there who want to hurt her, and damn does she suffer!!!
The first half of this book was exciting, meeting a cast of characters ranging from sexually uninhibited, drunk, partying teenagers to mentally ill, homicidal, psychotic, absentee parents. Just when a powerful, deep, intense romance develops, DARKNESS CONSUMES and the story takes a major turn. With revenge, abduction, abuse, rape, torture and straight up crazy this book has everything a dark erotica lover looks for!!! There was so much darkness and depravity, yet Radcliff kept things smooth and seamless. She’s a really great writer with a fabulously dark imagination. I can’t wait to read the next book in this duet!!!
Lydia‘s twin brother James is murdered leaving her family in shambles. Then she meets Ryder... What follows is not your typical or predictable romance. In fact, there’s nothing typical or predictable about this book. Not only must Lydia overcome her grief over the loss of her brother but there are others out there who want to hurt her, and damn does she suffer!!!
The first half of this book was exciting, meeting a cast of characters ranging from sexually uninhibited, drunk, partying teenagers to mentally ill, homicidal, psychotic, absentee parents. Just when a powerful, deep, intense romance develops, DARKNESS CONSUMES and the story takes a major turn. With revenge, abduction, abuse, rape, torture and straight up crazy this book has everything a dark erotica lover looks for!!! There was so much darkness and depravity, yet Radcliff kept things smooth and seamless. She’s a really great writer with a fabulously dark imagination. I can’t wait to read the next book in this duet!!!
June 14, 2018
Wow! What did I just read? This book had me hooked from page one. Lydia was a strong woman, I knew that from the beginning. She had to be after tragedy struck her family. After that nothing was the same, until Ryder shows up in her life. They instantly had a connection and she knew he was "the one." She learns the hard way that he's been keeping secrets to protect her. Secrets that could cost her everything. I cannot wait to read the next book. Definitely recommend this book❤❤
October 28, 2018
"Time doesn't heal. Time doesn't numb.
All it is, is a reminder of how long we've been living with our scars. But how long is too long?"
Ryder and Lydia's relationship entails all the angst and banter expected from romance novels but this is so much more this is a story about pain, hurt and deceit. Lydia faces insurmountable odds and faces them with bravery although it may be silent and it may hurt her more than anything she faces them and her demons both figurative and literal are nothing compared to her strength. Radcliff's writing will move you and make you feel.
All it is, is a reminder of how long we've been living with our scars. But how long is too long?"
Ryder and Lydia's relationship entails all the angst and banter expected from romance novels but this is so much more this is a story about pain, hurt and deceit. Lydia faces insurmountable odds and faces them with bravery although it may be silent and it may hurt her more than anything she faces them and her demons both figurative and literal are nothing compared to her strength. Radcliff's writing will move you and make you feel.
December 3, 2018
Well, this book was a bunch of fucked up wrapped in a gnarly bow.
I think I loved the side characters most, especially with knowing some of their stories before getting to Ryder and Lydia.
Griffin, love him. Sorry, Mari.
Ghost girl, love you. But that's because I met you first.
Cassie is a cunt. Duh.
Jared, my soul weeps for yours. I know everyone hates you, and maybe I should too, but I can't.
Let's start with, Ryder. We're brought this dark dude that makes us feel things. Probably a bad guy from first glance, but he's so much more too.
Then we meet the cunt, Cassie. She's immediately on my shit list.
But Lyd deals with her, so in turn, so do we. Lydia is a strong SOB, like she went through hell, to the deep depravities no one should experience, and she still fought her lil ass off.
She's golden in my eyes. Maybe not a bright yellow gold, but more of a tawny demolished gold that festered in the earth, going through every seasons for years, with mud, rock scrapes, and tarnished bits until it is saved. I guess we'll see in book two, won't we?
Ryder, back to him. This guy. Man. First impression was I didn't trust him. I know, I know. I have trust issues.
He just made me feel like he was a lying fuck, and I wasn't wrong. 🤷🏻♀️
But he grew on me. Like a leech in a warm revine, he latched onto me. Fucker.
This book brought me anger, intrigue, and absolute laughter. (Don't ask, I'm demented.) I loved most pages, but wish I got more of Jared. (Don't kill me, hoes. I can't resist the bastard.)
I can't wait to finish Griff's story and for C.M. to give me more Jared.
I'll let you know my thoughts on book two when I start.
And if you haven't read this book. Kindly fuck off, or buy the book. Either works for me.
- C.L., out.
I think I loved the side characters most, especially with knowing some of their stories before getting to Ryder and Lydia.
Griffin, love him. Sorry, Mari.
Ghost girl, love you. But that's because I met you first.
Cassie is a cunt. Duh.
Jared, my soul weeps for yours. I know everyone hates you, and maybe I should too, but I can't.
Let's start with, Ryder. We're brought this dark dude that makes us feel things. Probably a bad guy from first glance, but he's so much more too.
Then we meet the cunt, Cassie. She's immediately on my shit list.
But Lyd deals with her, so in turn, so do we. Lydia is a strong SOB, like she went through hell, to the deep depravities no one should experience, and she still fought her lil ass off.
She's golden in my eyes. Maybe not a bright yellow gold, but more of a tawny demolished gold that festered in the earth, going through every seasons for years, with mud, rock scrapes, and tarnished bits until it is saved. I guess we'll see in book two, won't we?
Ryder, back to him. This guy. Man. First impression was I didn't trust him. I know, I know. I have trust issues.
He just made me feel like he was a lying fuck, and I wasn't wrong. 🤷🏻♀️
But he grew on me. Like a leech in a warm revine, he latched onto me. Fucker.
This book brought me anger, intrigue, and absolute laughter. (Don't ask, I'm demented.) I loved most pages, but wish I got more of Jared. (Don't kill me, hoes. I can't resist the bastard.)
I can't wait to finish Griff's story and for C.M. to give me more Jared.
I'll let you know my thoughts on book two when I start.
And if you haven't read this book. Kindly fuck off, or buy the book. Either works for me.
- C.L., out.
August 16, 2018
My first book to read by C.M. Radcliff and it did not disappoint. Everything I crave when reading a dark story. Some parts even had me squirming.
"As children, we were always afraid of monsters under our beds. Or the ones hiding in the closet. A figment of our imagination. Something that delivers fear, but does not exist. But the real monsters are the ones that hide in plain sight. They creep and they lurk in broad daylight. They stalk their prey, waiting for the perfect moment to attack. If they want you, they will get you. And once they have you, they will take until there's nothing left."
From the get go, I thought I knew who it was but was totally thrown off and intrigued with who it is and those involved. There are so many twist and turns it will have your head spinning. Lydia's a fighter. She's been put through the wringer, to hell and back. The ending will leave you with questions. Is Lydia completely lost or will Ryder bring her back?
"You see, him and I, we aren't much different. We're just two tormented souls, fighting our inner demons. The kind that you can't run from. We hold each other. Our sorrow and despair entwine with one another, weaving together the pattern of our pain."
"As children, we were always afraid of monsters under our beds. Or the ones hiding in the closet. A figment of our imagination. Something that delivers fear, but does not exist. But the real monsters are the ones that hide in plain sight. They creep and they lurk in broad daylight. They stalk their prey, waiting for the perfect moment to attack. If they want you, they will get you. And once they have you, they will take until there's nothing left."
From the get go, I thought I knew who it was but was totally thrown off and intrigued with who it is and those involved. There are so many twist and turns it will have your head spinning. Lydia's a fighter. She's been put through the wringer, to hell and back. The ending will leave you with questions. Is Lydia completely lost or will Ryder bring her back?
"You see, him and I, we aren't much different. We're just two tormented souls, fighting our inner demons. The kind that you can't run from. We hold each other. Our sorrow and despair entwine with one another, weaving together the pattern of our pain."
July 12, 2018
Oh my god!!!
So many emotions are running around righ now.
I loved the writing style, it was very to the point without ramblings. The plot was very very good. This book had me teary eyed within the first few pages. Then as the story unfolded there came Ryder. God that guy, he sounded so genuine and protective. I hated when he left first.
Anywho, moving on things turned quite sour for Lydia in the end. My heart broke for her. She had to go through so much pain. I cried a ton every time something happened. This story felt so genuinely written it felt as if the events were happening in front of my eyes. C.M. Radcliff wrote this story really beautifully.
Now on to the next one.
So many emotions are running around righ now.
I loved the writing style, it was very to the point without ramblings. The plot was very very good. This book had me teary eyed within the first few pages. Then as the story unfolded there came Ryder. God that guy, he sounded so genuine and protective. I hated when he left first.
Anywho, moving on things turned quite sour for Lydia in the end. My heart broke for her. She had to go through so much pain. I cried a ton every time something happened. This story felt so genuinely written it felt as if the events were happening in front of my eyes. C.M. Radcliff wrote this story really beautifully.
Now on to the next one.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 29, 2018
This book was something else. Not what I was expecting at all but it was so worth the read.
It was definitely dark and twisted, angsty, emotional and caught me off guard. My feelings were all over the place, I laughed, I cried, I wanted to cut somebody, I was mad because of certain things that happened but Lydia and Ryder’s story was all encompassing. It left me wanting more for them and for the characters we see throughout the book.
To say this book was a mind f**k would be an understatement. I love the dark twisted, emotional romances and this was definitely one of them. I can’t wait to read the next book!
It was definitely dark and twisted, angsty, emotional and caught me off guard. My feelings were all over the place, I laughed, I cried, I wanted to cut somebody, I was mad because of certain things that happened but Lydia and Ryder’s story was all encompassing. It left me wanting more for them and for the characters we see throughout the book.
To say this book was a mind f**k would be an understatement. I love the dark twisted, emotional romances and this was definitely one of them. I can’t wait to read the next book!
August 8, 2020
I finished reading WDC omg this book was so good. From the beginning I connected with Lydia she goes through a difficult time, and you can really feel her pain.Oh boy Ryder was a big mystery for me half way through the book I was still trying to figure him out. Great connection between Ryder and Lydia. The second half of this book was amazing no spoilers here you will need to pick up this book and find out. Can't wait to read the second book.
July 3, 2018
What in the world did I just read?!? This was one of those stories that seem pretty sweet and innocent until bam, hard right turn into crazy and dark. I thoroughly enjoyed the story of Lydia and cant wait to continue on this crazy ride with Returned to the light (book2)
July 4, 2018
A must read Dark And Brutal book!!
If you like your heart ripped out of your chest and smashed all to hell, then THIS is the book for you. If you dont, then read it anyway. But, fair warning it's dark, brutal and downright alluring. All I can say is WOW!!
If you like your heart ripped out of your chest and smashed all to hell, then THIS is the book for you. If you dont, then read it anyway. But, fair warning it's dark, brutal and downright alluring. All I can say is WOW!!
February 16, 2019
Holy cow what did I read? This book is dark, full of secrets, lies and pain. I loved every minute of it. The story follows Lydia Benson who is adjusting to life without her twin brother. She meets a new guy Ryder, a dark anti-hero type with a secret. As they grow closer, Ryder of course leaves and moves on, seeming to forget Lydia. However fate has entwined them together and the mystery of this and her families secrets seal her doom. Taken captive by a psychopath, Lydia endures torture that makes your skin crawl. This story is not for the faint of heart. She is broken down physically and mentally by her captors because of a secret. Secrets that destroy everything she holds true. Will her love for Ryder survive?
I could not put this book down. The mystery draws the story along, and her characters give you definite reactions. I get a bad taste in my mouth to this day hearing the name Jared. Great read.
I have re-read it several times. Great story.
I could not put this book down. The mystery draws the story along, and her characters give you definite reactions. I get a bad taste in my mouth to this day hearing the name Jared. Great read.
I have re-read it several times. Great story.
January 17, 2019
This one has my head spinning.
This book was all consuming, full of twists and turns, secrets and mystery.
I just didn't know who to trust at times, it kept me guessing that's for sure.
Lydia is all alone after a tragedy destroyed her family. Then she meets the mysterious Ryker and he turns her world upside down.
But Ryker is full of secrets that he's trying to keep hidden, there's more to him than meets the eye.
I loved Lydia my heart was in my mouth for her, I thought she was brave and had amazing strenght.
Ryker I'm not sure about, I'm on the fence over him. I kept changing my mind. I'm hoping he can redeem himself in some way in book 2.
I'm looking forward to seeing what will happen next. There's some characters in this I need to know more about too, so hopefully we will get some more answers.
This book was all consuming, full of twists and turns, secrets and mystery.
I just didn't know who to trust at times, it kept me guessing that's for sure.
Lydia is all alone after a tragedy destroyed her family. Then she meets the mysterious Ryker and he turns her world upside down.
But Ryker is full of secrets that he's trying to keep hidden, there's more to him than meets the eye.
I loved Lydia my heart was in my mouth for her, I thought she was brave and had amazing strenght.
Ryker I'm not sure about, I'm on the fence over him. I kept changing my mind. I'm hoping he can redeem himself in some way in book 2.
I'm looking forward to seeing what will happen next. There's some characters in this I need to know more about too, so hopefully we will get some more answers.
January 14, 2019
If you love angst and complicated souls
I was unsure what to expect, my biggest surprise was how strong these characters are in the first page we get drowned in this dark, heartaching situation where mourning, falling in love, and parents who do not deserve the title are ever present taking you by the hand and forcing you into their lives.
This is book one ends on a cliffhanger, but thankfully book 2 is available and ready to take you to its ending.
I was unsure what to expect, my biggest surprise was how strong these characters are in the first page we get drowned in this dark, heartaching situation where mourning, falling in love, and parents who do not deserve the title are ever present taking you by the hand and forcing you into their lives.
This is book one ends on a cliffhanger, but thankfully book 2 is available and ready to take you to its ending.
January 19, 2019
Life isn't always what it seems
Wow...This book takes you on a ride. The loss of a loved one is hard. I can only guess at what a twin goes through. Now mix that with your family falling a part. Lydia doesn't know where to turn. Her father is never home and her mother is one step from a psych ward, after the death of their son. Things finally seem to be looking up, when Lydia meets Ryder, the neighbor's son. But Fate has other plans, Fate and someone out for revenge.
Wow...This book takes you on a ride. The loss of a loved one is hard. I can only guess at what a twin goes through. Now mix that with your family falling a part. Lydia doesn't know where to turn. Her father is never home and her mother is one step from a psych ward, after the death of their son. Things finally seem to be looking up, when Lydia meets Ryder, the neighbor's son. But Fate has other plans, Fate and someone out for revenge.
February 10, 2019
Lydia is thrust into a darker world of loneliness when her twin brother is killed. While we never really learn the why, the ‘who’ becomes slightly more clear as the story rolls on.
Lydia’s father Roger is a doctor who’s never around, and when he is there’s no joy in him being there. Her mother Victoria is off the rails losing her shit in a bottle in the midst of her depression. Nevermind that Lydia is still there, with her being James’ twin she’s just a reminder of the perfect son that was lost.
Trying to bring herself back, Lydia calls up an old friend and tries to resume/continue living. Going to a party she meets Ryder...and things with him are intense. Hot and cold, back and forth. First he says he wants to protect her and be friends, then feelings spark and he pulls back again. She knows there’s more to Ryder, but she doesn’t get the answers she needs from him.
By the end of the story you’ll be thinking ‘what the hell did I just read?’ ‘what is going on?’ and mostly likely ‘I can’t believe that just happened and there’s no explanation?!?!’ Craziness, such craziness that’s very well written and pulls you straight inside.
Lydia’s father Roger is a doctor who’s never around, and when he is there’s no joy in him being there. Her mother Victoria is off the rails losing her shit in a bottle in the midst of her depression. Nevermind that Lydia is still there, with her being James’ twin she’s just a reminder of the perfect son that was lost.
Trying to bring herself back, Lydia calls up an old friend and tries to resume/continue living. Going to a party she meets Ryder...and things with him are intense. Hot and cold, back and forth. First he says he wants to protect her and be friends, then feelings spark and he pulls back again. She knows there’s more to Ryder, but she doesn’t get the answers she needs from him.
By the end of the story you’ll be thinking ‘what the hell did I just read?’ ‘what is going on?’ and mostly likely ‘I can’t believe that just happened and there’s no explanation?!?!’ Craziness, such craziness that’s very well written and pulls you straight inside.
July 25, 2021
Must read!
What the he*l did I just read? Completely confusing book but so engrossing that I just got lost in it. Hoping the answers to my questions are in Book 2. Wow. What a mindf*ck.
What the he*l did I just read? Completely confusing book but so engrossing that I just got lost in it. Hoping the answers to my questions are in Book 2. Wow. What a mindf*ck.
June 15, 2018
This book kept me entertained and served as my escape during the darkest time of my life.
I’m at a loss on leaving an adequate review- but if you like romance with a heavy dose of dark, this book is for you
I’m at a loss on leaving an adequate review- but if you like romance with a heavy dose of dark, this book is for you
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