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The Institute
Serenity is an illusion.
The deranged. The demented. The unstable.
Six stories, six authors, non-stop madness.
Dear Reader,
I trust this letter finds you well.
It is with the utmost concern that we invite you to join us at the infamous Serenity Institute. You’ll be able to observe the ongoings of the asylum, meet the patients and the doctors. We do however ask that you please be quiet. Do not interact with the patients, and respect the special treatments our doctors administer.
This is where nightmares come alive.
A home for the shattered psyche of its patients.
Hope is lost when they cross the threshold.
The deranged. The demented. The unstable.
Six stories, six authors, non-stop madness.
Kind regards,
The Authors
The deranged. The demented. The unstable.
Six stories, six authors, non-stop madness.
Dear Reader,
I trust this letter finds you well.
It is with the utmost concern that we invite you to join us at the infamous Serenity Institute. You’ll be able to observe the ongoings of the asylum, meet the patients and the doctors. We do however ask that you please be quiet. Do not interact with the patients, and respect the special treatments our doctors administer.
This is where nightmares come alive.
A home for the shattered psyche of its patients.
Hope is lost when they cross the threshold.
The deranged. The demented. The unstable.
Six stories, six authors, non-stop madness.
Kind regards,
The Authors
654 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 30, 2020
43 people are currently reading
474 people want to read
About the author
Dani René
123 books2,349 followersDani is a USA Today Bestselling Author of dark and deviant romance with a seductive edge.
Originally from Cape Town, South Africa, she now lives in the UK where she explores old buildings and cemeteries while plotting her next book.
When she's not writing, she can be found binge-watching the latest TV series, or working on graphic design either for herself, or other indie authors.
She enjoys reading books about handsome villains and feisty heroines, mostly dark, always seductive, and sometimes depraved. She has a healthy addiction to tattoos, coffee, and ice cream.
You can find more information on her website, www.danirene.com, or find her on social media, Instagram and Facebook being her favorites. Along with her newsletter, which you can sign up for here - https://bit.ly/DaniVIPs
Find me online: Facebook Page | BookBub Page | Instagram | Amazon Page | TikTok | Pinterest
Originally from Cape Town, South Africa, she now lives in the UK where she explores old buildings and cemeteries while plotting her next book.
When she's not writing, she can be found binge-watching the latest TV series, or working on graphic design either for herself, or other indie authors.
She enjoys reading books about handsome villains and feisty heroines, mostly dark, always seductive, and sometimes depraved. She has a healthy addiction to tattoos, coffee, and ice cream.
You can find more information on her website, www.danirene.com, or find her on social media, Instagram and Facebook being her favorites. Along with her newsletter, which you can sign up for here - https://bit.ly/DaniVIPs
Find me online: Facebook Page | BookBub Page | Instagram | Amazon Page | TikTok | Pinterest
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 100 reviews
April 30, 2020
Having read all the stories in the anthology, there is definitely something in here for every one who enjoys an erotic twisted story.
1. Echo by Dani Rene
I really enjoyed the idea of two completely different personalities in one body and whilst this is they type of anthology where I'm not expecting any sort of traditional HEA, the ending seemed a little bit pointless. It's hard to explain without spoiling the story but I couldn't understand what had led Dr Ansel to suddenly change his mind/behaviour. Where did that sudden volt face come from? I liked the story but it was just a little too disjointed/underdeveloped for me to totally love it.
2. Marbh by Anna Edwards
I really liked this, particularly in it having an antiheroine as the main focus. Again this is vague because it's a fairly short story and - spoilers! - but I loved the reveal and thought the ending was not only brave but actually perfect. The story totally drew me in, had me fascinated and Marbh is an amazing character.
3. Hostile Illusion by India R Adams
A wonderfully tragic, dark, depraved, inspiring, heartwarming, heartbreaking story. Words, words have left me. This story alone makes the book worth buying. I really can't say too much but it's got such a wonderfully dark but happy ending. Beautiful, tragic, amazing.
4. Mr Cat Is Not Real by Jennifer Bene
Oh my word, Nina made me cry! Her desperation to be good, to go outside, to have a friend, for Tom to like her, maybe to get well enough to go home. I'm not quite sure how I feel about Dr Nickelsen and Tom. Are they truly trying to help or just taking advantage. This is such a dark, very dub-con story. In fact given Nina's mental state it's non-con, even if she does agree and enjoy it.
JB dragged me through a whole range of emotions with this short story, and left me sort of heart hurt and sort of hopeful. I need to give Nina a hug.
5. Release Me by Murphy Wallace
As I was reading this I wondered how the author was going to wrap things up, because it read and progressed like a full length book. Then I got to the part that said 'end of part one' and realised that this probably will eventually become a full length story.
However don't be put off because the story of Dr Richard and B contained in this book is a twisted, difficult, thought provoking, well paced and very erotic read. It totally captivated me and I definitely will read the rest of the story when it's released. I would describe it as ending at a natural break point rather than a cliff-hanger ending.
6. Sanitorim by Sian B. Claven
This is a totally new-to-me author and I have to say I was very impressed with the story of Mollie, Lizzie and James. I sort of guessed a few of the twists because of the foreshadowing but that didn't take away from the enjoyment in anyway. Especially since there were plenty of other twists and surprises along the way.
I'm still wondering about Riley and Jana, that's possibly the only plot hole but nothing too big and irrelevant anyway given the ending. Which I LOVED!
1. Echo by Dani Rene
I really enjoyed the idea of two completely different personalities in one body and whilst this is they type of anthology where I'm not expecting any sort of traditional HEA, the ending seemed a little bit pointless. It's hard to explain without spoiling the story but I couldn't understand what had led Dr Ansel to suddenly change his mind/behaviour. Where did that sudden volt face come from? I liked the story but it was just a little too disjointed/underdeveloped for me to totally love it.
2. Marbh by Anna Edwards
I really liked this, particularly in it having an antiheroine as the main focus. Again this is vague because it's a fairly short story and - spoilers! - but I loved the reveal and thought the ending was not only brave but actually perfect. The story totally drew me in, had me fascinated and Marbh is an amazing character.
3. Hostile Illusion by India R Adams
A wonderfully tragic, dark, depraved, inspiring, heartwarming, heartbreaking story. Words, words have left me. This story alone makes the book worth buying. I really can't say too much but it's got such a wonderfully dark but happy ending. Beautiful, tragic, amazing.
4. Mr Cat Is Not Real by Jennifer Bene
Oh my word, Nina made me cry! Her desperation to be good, to go outside, to have a friend, for Tom to like her, maybe to get well enough to go home. I'm not quite sure how I feel about Dr Nickelsen and Tom. Are they truly trying to help or just taking advantage. This is such a dark, very dub-con story. In fact given Nina's mental state it's non-con, even if she does agree and enjoy it.
JB dragged me through a whole range of emotions with this short story, and left me sort of heart hurt and sort of hopeful. I need to give Nina a hug.
5. Release Me by Murphy Wallace
As I was reading this I wondered how the author was going to wrap things up, because it read and progressed like a full length book. Then I got to the part that said 'end of part one' and realised that this probably will eventually become a full length story.
However don't be put off because the story of Dr Richard and B contained in this book is a twisted, difficult, thought provoking, well paced and very erotic read. It totally captivated me and I definitely will read the rest of the story when it's released. I would describe it as ending at a natural break point rather than a cliff-hanger ending.
6. Sanitorim by Sian B. Claven
This is a totally new-to-me author and I have to say I was very impressed with the story of Mollie, Lizzie and James. I sort of guessed a few of the twists because of the foreshadowing but that didn't take away from the enjoyment in anyway. Especially since there were plenty of other twists and surprises along the way.
I'm still wondering about Riley and Jana, that's possibly the only plot hole but nothing too big and irrelevant anyway given the ending. Which I LOVED!
April 30, 2020
This is a review for Hostile Illsusions by India R. Adams.
"My torture feeds their needs.
My suffering is their natural high.
My misery is the outlet for their sadistic ways.
My despair… Their ecstasy."
Part of The Institute: A Dark Anthology, Hostile Illusions will take you into the Serenity Institute, where Dr Landon is the therapist of a young woman who suffers from amnesia.
I can't and certainly won't say more as you'll need to read for yourself and experience the India R. Adams beautiful writing.
Heart-wrenching, that short tale is not for the faint of heart. I cringed at the atrocities Lacey was subjected too. The striking realism of the scenes had my stomach in knots and my throat on fire from screaming. How not to feel the despair, the hopelessness of that girl? And then, then, in true India magical fashion, you find a spark of good, a bright little light in all that darkness. You cling to it, you want to believe that everything and anything is possible in all that unfairness and gory. I sought solace, reprieve. I let the poetic words draw, capsize and sink me into that viscerally gripping atmosphere of damaged souls....and I ended in tears.
"Wounded souls and hearts with holes
May you forever be
Lovers of the night, willing to fight
May you forever… be"
#DamagedSoulsAreWorthSaving
I VOLUNTARILY REVIEWED AN ARC COPY OF THIS BOOK. THANK YOU!!!
"My torture feeds their needs.
My suffering is their natural high.
My misery is the outlet for their sadistic ways.
My despair… Their ecstasy."
Part of The Institute: A Dark Anthology, Hostile Illusions will take you into the Serenity Institute, where Dr Landon is the therapist of a young woman who suffers from amnesia.
I can't and certainly won't say more as you'll need to read for yourself and experience the India R. Adams beautiful writing.
Heart-wrenching, that short tale is not for the faint of heart. I cringed at the atrocities Lacey was subjected too. The striking realism of the scenes had my stomach in knots and my throat on fire from screaming. How not to feel the despair, the hopelessness of that girl? And then, then, in true India magical fashion, you find a spark of good, a bright little light in all that darkness. You cling to it, you want to believe that everything and anything is possible in all that unfairness and gory. I sought solace, reprieve. I let the poetic words draw, capsize and sink me into that viscerally gripping atmosphere of damaged souls....and I ended in tears.
"Wounded souls and hearts with holes
May you forever be
Lovers of the night, willing to fight
May you forever… be"
#DamagedSoulsAreWorthSaving
I VOLUNTARILY REVIEWED AN ARC COPY OF THIS BOOK. THANK YOU!!!
April 22, 2020
5 Massive Stars: The Institute: A Dark Anthology
I am not a massive fan of anthologies but saw this one and having read books by all of these authors before knew I would enjoy what they were going to offer - and deliver they did. Every single book in this Anthology is brilliantly written, twisted, crazy and filthy!.
Echo by Dani Rene - My head hurts, my knickers are wet Ha! Three of us in this crazy relationship, will the doctor love us equally.
Marbh by Anna Edwards - WoW Loved this one, Marbh one of the oldest residents, this story is dark, dirty, brutal and crazy!
Hostile Illusions by India R Adams - My heart is breaking, tears will fall with this gripping tale. Not for the faint hearted!
Mr.Cat is Not Real by Jennifer Bene - Holy Hell, this one is twisted, kinky, dirty and Dr Nickelsen's therapy sessions are the ones I would want!!!
Release Me by Murphy Wallace - Hot & dangerous sexual themes my kind of storyline add in a Tall, Dark & F**kable doctor and I am happy.
Sanitorium by Sian B Claven -Loved this one, it is an evil, wicked & twisted tale, Revenge at it's best. Have your lollipop ready to lick!
I am not a massive fan of anthologies but saw this one and having read books by all of these authors before knew I would enjoy what they were going to offer - and deliver they did. Every single book in this Anthology is brilliantly written, twisted, crazy and filthy!.
Echo by Dani Rene - My head hurts, my knickers are wet Ha! Three of us in this crazy relationship, will the doctor love us equally.
Marbh by Anna Edwards - WoW Loved this one, Marbh one of the oldest residents, this story is dark, dirty, brutal and crazy!
Hostile Illusions by India R Adams - My heart is breaking, tears will fall with this gripping tale. Not for the faint hearted!
Mr.Cat is Not Real by Jennifer Bene - Holy Hell, this one is twisted, kinky, dirty and Dr Nickelsen's therapy sessions are the ones I would want!!!
Release Me by Murphy Wallace - Hot & dangerous sexual themes my kind of storyline add in a Tall, Dark & F**kable doctor and I am happy.
Sanitorium by Sian B Claven -Loved this one, it is an evil, wicked & twisted tale, Revenge at it's best. Have your lollipop ready to lick!
May 14, 2020
5 STARS FOR ECHO BY DANI RENE!! This was a delicious story with Ansel and Katya/Rose that is filled with sexiness and all of the OMG moments. The only complaint I have is the story is it needed to be longer. I am hoping we get more at some point.
5 STARS FOR HOSTILE ILLUSIONS BY INDIA R. ADAMS!! Wow, this dark heartbreaking story was so beautifully told by this author. I felt all the feels all the way through the story and was glued to every word. Lacey and Tate have engraved their names on my heart.
I can't wait to read all the stories in this dark anthology. If you love dark stories like I do, you will want to download it.
5 STARS FOR HOSTILE ILLUSIONS BY INDIA R. ADAMS!! Wow, this dark heartbreaking story was so beautifully told by this author. I felt all the feels all the way through the story and was glued to every word. Lacey and Tate have engraved their names on my heart.
I can't wait to read all the stories in this dark anthology. If you love dark stories like I do, you will want to download it.
July 27, 2020
Institute is a brand new anthology brought to you by six authors. These authors being Dani Rene, Anna Edwards, Murphy Wallace, India. R. Adams, Jennifer Bene, and Sian Claven.
Are you ready for the madness?
It is with the utmost concern that I invite you to join us at the infamous serenity institute. Here you will meet the most deranged, demented and unstable patients and their doctors.
Hostile Illusions by India. R. Adams: I just started and finished Hostille Illusions. This dark book just broke my heart. It had the perfect blend of darkness, sweetness and a romance blend combined. This story will absolutely break your heart.
In this book we meet Vera and Tate, Vera is full of dark memories whereas Tate brings the Lightness that she needs into her World at the times the darkness becomes a bit too much.
When they are together it’s as their two souls are blending together. She becomes his and he becomes hers.
With Vera’s memories slowly coming back, that’s when the twist presented itself and shocked my core but in the very end that’s when your left with tears in your eyes.
“They weren’t illusions at all. They were memories. Maybe that is the case for all of us. We’re not mad, We’re simply... destroyed.”
More reviews to come as I continue to read this anthology when it releases.
Are you ready for the madness?
It is with the utmost concern that I invite you to join us at the infamous serenity institute. Here you will meet the most deranged, demented and unstable patients and their doctors.
Hostile Illusions by India. R. Adams: I just started and finished Hostille Illusions. This dark book just broke my heart. It had the perfect blend of darkness, sweetness and a romance blend combined. This story will absolutely break your heart.
In this book we meet Vera and Tate, Vera is full of dark memories whereas Tate brings the Lightness that she needs into her World at the times the darkness becomes a bit too much.
When they are together it’s as their two souls are blending together. She becomes his and he becomes hers.
With Vera’s memories slowly coming back, that’s when the twist presented itself and shocked my core but in the very end that’s when your left with tears in your eyes.
“They weren’t illusions at all. They were memories. Maybe that is the case for all of us. We’re not mad, We’re simply... destroyed.”
More reviews to come as I continue to read this anthology when it releases.
October 8, 2020
Dark and Twisted and Messed Up and Out Of Print
This was a superb anthology and I'm glad I got to read it while it was available.
Special note to India R Adams: What the actual Fuck? "Hostile Illusions" messed me up more than anything I've read in years.
I'm off now to comb through the complete works of everyone who contributed. If this anthology ever reappears as a single volume and you're partial to dark and messed up shit, don't miss it.
This was a superb anthology and I'm glad I got to read it while it was available.
Special note to India R Adams: What the actual Fuck? "Hostile Illusions" messed me up more than anything I've read in years.
I'm off now to comb through the complete works of everyone who contributed. If this anthology ever reappears as a single volume and you're partial to dark and messed up shit, don't miss it.
May 1, 2020
I put the words down but they don't even comes close to what I feel about these stories...DAYUM!!! There should be a therapy voucher attached to this book!
Echo- Dani René
Poor Katya, so broken and she knows it. But Ansel loves her none the less. And Rose, what a wild thing. WOW!
Marbh- Anna Edwards
What an intense story! But then Marbh remembers....WTF!! That is a shock I didn't expect!
Hostile Illusions- India R Adams
(Definitely a trigger warning with this story)
Lacey and Tate have broken my heart! But love always wins, Evermore.
Mr. Cat Is Not Real- Jennifer Bene
Nina and Mr. Cat have one destructive relationship. Luckily she seems to have a friend in Tom.
Dr. Nickelsen is a dirty doctor with his female hysteria idea. But I kinda like where his treatments go.
Release Me- Murphy Wallace
Brynn is one sexually troubled individual. And Dr. Dick has some seriously intense therapy to help. Thankfully their story looks like it might continue...
Sanitorium- Sian B. Claven
Molly is being taken care of by her nurse twin sister Lizzie. Dr. James is working really hard with Molly to make her better...or maybe not. This story was harder to read than the others. But that ending with Christian the orderly, DAMN!
Echo- Dani René
Poor Katya, so broken and she knows it. But Ansel loves her none the less. And Rose, what a wild thing. WOW!
Marbh- Anna Edwards
What an intense story! But then Marbh remembers....WTF!! That is a shock I didn't expect!
Hostile Illusions- India R Adams
(Definitely a trigger warning with this story)
Lacey and Tate have broken my heart! But love always wins, Evermore.
Mr. Cat Is Not Real- Jennifer Bene
Nina and Mr. Cat have one destructive relationship. Luckily she seems to have a friend in Tom.
Dr. Nickelsen is a dirty doctor with his female hysteria idea. But I kinda like where his treatments go.
Release Me- Murphy Wallace
Brynn is one sexually troubled individual. And Dr. Dick has some seriously intense therapy to help. Thankfully their story looks like it might continue...
Sanitorium- Sian B. Claven
Molly is being taken care of by her nurse twin sister Lizzie. Dr. James is working really hard with Molly to make her better...or maybe not. This story was harder to read than the others. But that ending with Christian the orderly, DAMN!
July 10, 2020
This anthology is full of rockstar authors. I have read and enjoyed every one of these authors in other anths or standalones, so I knew that this book was going to be stellar.
Echo - This story was a headtrip that had darkness and heat. It was a great start to this anth.
Marbh - I loved this fast-paced story with its blend of past and present. It was so dark and entertaining that I was sorry to see it come to an end.
Hostile Illusions - This was an incredible story with an abundance of dark depravity. I was fascinated watching everything become clear and I absolutely couldn't put it down.
Mr. Cat is Not Real - This story was so well written and made me feel a little bit crazy too. It was such a unique story and a perfect addition to this anthology.
Release Me - This was an intense and original story and by the end I was invested and definitely wanted to know what would happen next with these characters.
Sanitorium - This was a wild, twisty ride and got all up in my head. The ending was perfect! It was a great way to end this fantastic volume of stories.
Echo - This story was a headtrip that had darkness and heat. It was a great start to this anth.
Marbh - I loved this fast-paced story with its blend of past and present. It was so dark and entertaining that I was sorry to see it come to an end.
Hostile Illusions - This was an incredible story with an abundance of dark depravity. I was fascinated watching everything become clear and I absolutely couldn't put it down.
Mr. Cat is Not Real - This story was so well written and made me feel a little bit crazy too. It was such a unique story and a perfect addition to this anthology.
Release Me - This was an intense and original story and by the end I was invested and definitely wanted to know what would happen next with these characters.
Sanitorium - This was a wild, twisty ride and got all up in my head. The ending was perfect! It was a great way to end this fantastic volume of stories.
May 2, 2020
Every single book was absolutely AMAZING!!!! The Serenity Institute had me feeling a whirlwind of emotions. Loved this sick and depraved anthology! EVERY STORY WAS 5 STARS!
Echo by Dani René
I loved this!!!! Perfect amount of forbidden, sexy, naughty, crazy and flat out lustful. Ansel, Rose and Katya were enchating to read and when I flipped the page and noticed I was at the end I actually pouted. Dr. Sterling is one of my favorites! 5 stars!
Marbh by Anna Edwards
Wow this story was insane! I thought Marbh was just alittle unhinged but it seems she wasnt. She was telling the truth about what her mind told her she did and about her husband Luan. I thought for sure the doc and her would bang but even though they didnt I was thoroughly impressed! 5 stars!!!!
Hostile Illusions by India R Adams
OH MY GOD. This story killed me! Ugh my heart. I literally almost cried and I am a tough cookie. Lacey/Vera went through SOO much in her life by her evil brothers and their friends. WOW. My jaw is still on the floor. 5 huge stars!
Mr Cat Is Not Real by Jennifer Bene
OK. Nina is the definition of CRAZY. When someone says "you're so crazy" they're basically calling you a Nina LOL I freaking LOVED this story!!!! The cat kept reminding me of Alice in Wonderland too. I didnt know if I should hate the doctor for all the sexual treatments or love him for it HAHA. So many good stories in this anthology! 5 stars!!!!!!!
Release Me by Murphy Wallace
This book was HOT! Brynn definitely was intense in her sexual needs but she really couldnt help it. It was like a drug. And the amazing Dr Dunnington SHEW. Just when I finally got to see them in action the book was over. I NEED PART 2! LOVE LOVE. 5 STARS!
Sanitorium by Sian Claven *SPOILERS*
Last book in the series. And holy crap what an ending!!!!! I just knew there was something off about her sister! And to find out the doc was involved and they were both messing with her. That ending couldnt have gone better!!!!! I am in love with this authors work now and I need all the books Sian has written! 5 stars!!!
Echo by Dani René
I loved this!!!! Perfect amount of forbidden, sexy, naughty, crazy and flat out lustful. Ansel, Rose and Katya were enchating to read and when I flipped the page and noticed I was at the end I actually pouted. Dr. Sterling is one of my favorites! 5 stars!
Marbh by Anna Edwards
Wow this story was insane! I thought Marbh was just alittle unhinged but it seems she wasnt. She was telling the truth about what her mind told her she did and about her husband Luan. I thought for sure the doc and her would bang but even though they didnt I was thoroughly impressed! 5 stars!!!!
Hostile Illusions by India R Adams
OH MY GOD. This story killed me! Ugh my heart. I literally almost cried and I am a tough cookie. Lacey/Vera went through SOO much in her life by her evil brothers and their friends. WOW. My jaw is still on the floor. 5 huge stars!
Mr Cat Is Not Real by Jennifer Bene
OK. Nina is the definition of CRAZY. When someone says "you're so crazy" they're basically calling you a Nina LOL I freaking LOVED this story!!!! The cat kept reminding me of Alice in Wonderland too. I didnt know if I should hate the doctor for all the sexual treatments or love him for it HAHA. So many good stories in this anthology! 5 stars!!!!!!!
Release Me by Murphy Wallace
This book was HOT! Brynn definitely was intense in her sexual needs but she really couldnt help it. It was like a drug. And the amazing Dr Dunnington SHEW. Just when I finally got to see them in action the book was over. I NEED PART 2! LOVE LOVE. 5 STARS!
Sanitorium by Sian Claven *SPOILERS*
Last book in the series. And holy crap what an ending!!!!! I just knew there was something off about her sister! And to find out the doc was involved and they were both messing with her. That ending couldnt have gone better!!!!! I am in love with this authors work now and I need all the books Sian has written! 5 stars!!!
April 30, 2020
A Anthology of the Twisted, Insane & Dark
*arc generously provided by the promo team in exchange for an honest review*
What’s this book about? (I'm trying to give as little spoilers as possible)
“The deranged. The demented. The unstable.
Six stories, six authors, non-stop madness.”
This is the first anthology that I’ve read from start to finish. The stories delivered what they promised, crazy, crazier and craziest. Madness all over. Gut-wrenching abuse everywhere. Mental instabilities that confused the hell out of me. There was the occasional steam; the second half of the stories were full of steam. The stories that have stuck with me are Hostile Illusions and Mr. Cat Is Not Real. Hostile Illusions by India R Adams is preparing for an expansion, I hear. I’d definitely be curious! I might need to go back and re-read Mr. Cat Is Not Real just to check details I missed in my first read. Both of these stories were heart-breaking, fast-paced and hellishly dark. Needless to say, each story had a new twist to it and I was captivated by each page!
I recommend this anthology to readers who like their dark psych-ward stories, creative surprises and don’t mind if their story doesn’t have a definite HEA.
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Bookbub
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May 19, 2020
The Institute
These stories of the Serenity Institute and the doctors and patients who live there are awesome and at the same time craziness to the extreme!
Dani Renee's story Echo sets the tone for this anthology. And Dani does not disappoint.
Followed by Marbh by Anna Edwards and then Hostile Illusions by India R Adam's. But then came Jennifer Bene's story Mr. Cat is not real, and I was blown away. She took the doctor/patient relationship to the next level!
These stories of the Serenity Institute and the doctors and patients who live there are awesome and at the same time craziness to the extreme!
Dani Renee's story Echo sets the tone for this anthology. And Dani does not disappoint.
Followed by Marbh by Anna Edwards and then Hostile Illusions by India R Adam's. But then came Jennifer Bene's story Mr. Cat is not real, and I was blown away. She took the doctor/patient relationship to the next level!
May 3, 2020
Wow..where do I start. I love anthologies as I love to pop in and out between different reads.
In all honesty I wouldn’t be able to choose a favourite as each and every story was so so good. Each story deserves five amazing stars. All the stories messed with my head and had me thinking omg.
I can’t praise this anthology highly enough if your looking for a dark and disturbing read.
In all honesty I wouldn’t be able to choose a favourite as each and every story was so so good. Each story deserves five amazing stars. All the stories messed with my head and had me thinking omg.
I can’t praise this anthology highly enough if your looking for a dark and disturbing read.
Want to read
April 28, 2020Oh, Hostile Illusions, what have you done to my heart? 😢
Vera and Tate, thank you for being a part of my soul and for fitting perfectly with these epic author’s stories! 🦋
Welcome to The Institute, everyone!
~India
Vera and Tate, thank you for being a part of my soul and for fitting perfectly with these epic author’s stories! 🦋
Welcome to The Institute, everyone!
~India
April 27, 2020
Welcome to the Serenity Institute where there are six very different, very engaging stories to keep you entertained.
Echo by Dani Rene
This story is told in two parts- the past and the present. It is also told by Ansel and Katya and Rose. Ansel is infatuated with one of his patients, Katya/Rose where loving one is a lot more. It’s a strange little story but also strangely right too.
Marbh by Anna Edwards
Wow! This story is incredible in its concept and delivery. I am totally bowled over by its mastery. Marbh is an assassin but now held in the asylum. I’m not saying anymore for fear of giving away such a clever story.
Hostile Illusions by India R Adams
‘Vera’ is suffering from amnesia when she was found lost, dirty, and with multiple wounds in the woods. This is her story and honestly one that both rips your heart out and makes you want to rip out more than that to a few characters in the story. I will warn you, I needed a bit of time to get myself together when I had finished reading this incredible story. This is my favorite story from this collection.
Mr. Cat Is Not Real by Jennifer Bene
Wow! This is a very different story with extremely different treatments. It’s very erotic and quite disturbing but hello that is the nature of this book. I felt as if I needed to know exactly what happens to the female lead character, Nina, alas maybe the story will be expanded later or maybe we have to imagine it in our minds.
Release Me by Murphy Wallace
Brynn Holliday suffers from ‘Bi-polar Hypersexuality Disorder’ and lands herself in the Serenity Institute after a spot of bother you could say. This story explores quite a few issues and some are very intense but well written about. This is part one and there will be another half of the story to come.
Sanitorium by Sian B Claven
Hold on for an amazing tale with Sanitorium. It has everything you need to make an incredible story come to life; plenty of drama, romance, suspense, and loads of emotions. There are twists that will provide exciting entertainment as well.
A sensational collection of stories with a huge variety to suit everyone but yes, when you enter the doors of The Serenity Institution be prepared for the darkness and the depravity!
*ARC received in exchange for an honest review*
For more reviews, news and giveaways, check out Saucy Reviews on Kinky Korner at;
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Echo by Dani Rene
This story is told in two parts- the past and the present. It is also told by Ansel and Katya and Rose. Ansel is infatuated with one of his patients, Katya/Rose where loving one is a lot more. It’s a strange little story but also strangely right too.
Marbh by Anna Edwards
Wow! This story is incredible in its concept and delivery. I am totally bowled over by its mastery. Marbh is an assassin but now held in the asylum. I’m not saying anymore for fear of giving away such a clever story.
Hostile Illusions by India R Adams
‘Vera’ is suffering from amnesia when she was found lost, dirty, and with multiple wounds in the woods. This is her story and honestly one that both rips your heart out and makes you want to rip out more than that to a few characters in the story. I will warn you, I needed a bit of time to get myself together when I had finished reading this incredible story. This is my favorite story from this collection.
Mr. Cat Is Not Real by Jennifer Bene
Wow! This is a very different story with extremely different treatments. It’s very erotic and quite disturbing but hello that is the nature of this book. I felt as if I needed to know exactly what happens to the female lead character, Nina, alas maybe the story will be expanded later or maybe we have to imagine it in our minds.
Release Me by Murphy Wallace
Brynn Holliday suffers from ‘Bi-polar Hypersexuality Disorder’ and lands herself in the Serenity Institute after a spot of bother you could say. This story explores quite a few issues and some are very intense but well written about. This is part one and there will be another half of the story to come.
Sanitorium by Sian B Claven
Hold on for an amazing tale with Sanitorium. It has everything you need to make an incredible story come to life; plenty of drama, romance, suspense, and loads of emotions. There are twists that will provide exciting entertainment as well.
A sensational collection of stories with a huge variety to suit everyone but yes, when you enter the doors of The Serenity Institution be prepared for the darkness and the depravity!
*ARC received in exchange for an honest review*
For more reviews, news and giveaways, check out Saucy Reviews on Kinky Korner at;
Blog | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest |
April 30, 2020
As an Anthology lover, I was intrigued by the description on this one, so I knew I had to read it. Each one is so good that I devoured this book!
One of the first stories is by Dani Rene called Echo. It is the story of a young girl named Katya who has issues and the doctor, Ansel, who treats her. But his way of treating a patient is not your normal doctor way and I loved it! He has feelings for Katya, or does he really? Katya knows it is wrong, but does he show her that it is perfectly normal?? I loved this story and hope it becomes a full length book as it definitely can be!
The next story called Marbh is by Anna Edwards and it is so different than what I expected. Marbh lives in a fantasy world where she is in love with Iuan. But is she in modern times, medieval times or when? I loved how this went back and forth from fantasy to reality. I found it had tons of charm, believe it or not. It is not light hearted, but I enjoyed every word!
Hostile Illusions by India R. Adams will pull at your heart and make you cry for Lacey and Tate. Two troubled souls whose lives were ones in no one should have had to live. My heart hurt for these two, yet it also could feel the love and compassion that they have for each other. This story is not for the weak, it is very dark, but what a story it is. Absolutely mind blowing.
Mr. Cat Is Not Real by Jennifer Bene was a very interesting read that dealt with real vs. fake. Nina has a friend named Mr. Cat, but is he real or not real? Her doctor uses unique therapy to help her understand reality and she hopes it works. I really liked Nina’s character. She was willing to do anything to help herself. Prepare yourself for a story you don’t want to end.
Release Me by Murphy Wallace is the story of a young girl named Brynn who has a rather unusual affliction and she's in the Institute because of it. No one seems to be able to get thru to her, not the doctors, nor the patients. Not until Dr. Richard shows up to take her case. His methods, while unusual to some, seem to be the way to get to Brynn. But will she allow him into her mind? I really loved this story and definitely need more of these two characters!
Sanitorium by Sian Claven will hold you captive from beginning to end. The story of twins Molly and Lizzie was so good! Molly is a patient and Lizzie is her nurse trying to help her. When Molly starts therapy with Dr. Manning, strange things start to happen. Can Molly convince Lizzie things aren't what they seem? I really enjoyed this dark story and so will you!
One of the first stories is by Dani Rene called Echo. It is the story of a young girl named Katya who has issues and the doctor, Ansel, who treats her. But his way of treating a patient is not your normal doctor way and I loved it! He has feelings for Katya, or does he really? Katya knows it is wrong, but does he show her that it is perfectly normal?? I loved this story and hope it becomes a full length book as it definitely can be!
The next story called Marbh is by Anna Edwards and it is so different than what I expected. Marbh lives in a fantasy world where she is in love with Iuan. But is she in modern times, medieval times or when? I loved how this went back and forth from fantasy to reality. I found it had tons of charm, believe it or not. It is not light hearted, but I enjoyed every word!
Hostile Illusions by India R. Adams will pull at your heart and make you cry for Lacey and Tate. Two troubled souls whose lives were ones in no one should have had to live. My heart hurt for these two, yet it also could feel the love and compassion that they have for each other. This story is not for the weak, it is very dark, but what a story it is. Absolutely mind blowing.
Mr. Cat Is Not Real by Jennifer Bene was a very interesting read that dealt with real vs. fake. Nina has a friend named Mr. Cat, but is he real or not real? Her doctor uses unique therapy to help her understand reality and she hopes it works. I really liked Nina’s character. She was willing to do anything to help herself. Prepare yourself for a story you don’t want to end.
Release Me by Murphy Wallace is the story of a young girl named Brynn who has a rather unusual affliction and she's in the Institute because of it. No one seems to be able to get thru to her, not the doctors, nor the patients. Not until Dr. Richard shows up to take her case. His methods, while unusual to some, seem to be the way to get to Brynn. But will she allow him into her mind? I really loved this story and definitely need more of these two characters!
Sanitorium by Sian Claven will hold you captive from beginning to end. The story of twins Molly and Lizzie was so good! Molly is a patient and Lizzie is her nurse trying to help her. When Molly starts therapy with Dr. Manning, strange things start to happen. Can Molly convince Lizzie things aren't what they seem? I really enjoyed this dark story and so will you!
May 1, 2020
I just went insane as the patients in Serenity Institute.
I love to read about mental illnesses and their carriers and these six stories where so good especially for me Echo by Dani René but every story had their special place.
•In Echo I loved Ansel and Katya, she has one of the most interesting mental illness in my opinion she has Dissociative Identity Disorder. She has a doble personality and He is the director of the institute trying to help her, it’s sooo good! 5🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
•In Marbh I had no idea what I was reading, I cannot say much because I would be giving it away but she has type of mental illness that each day erases it self and start a new fantasy, it was a really interesting story and that end! Omg it was a really good one.
3.5🌟🌟🌟✨
•Hostile Illusions... gawd!!! I cried so much in this one, that story was a beautiful trauma. She doesn’t remember what happens to her until she has mastery visitor at night, ok that’s all I’m saying about this one. 5🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
•Mr. cat is not real, kind of a bdsm story, Nina suffers from hallucinations, she sees a Cat that tells her that nobody likes her and that he is the only one that cares. Her Doctor, Dr. Nickelsen is trying to help her get rid of those hallucinations by some not conventional methods 😉. 4🌟🌟🌟🌟
•Release me, Brynh has a bipolar disorder with hyper sexuality and Dr. Richard Dunnington has been called to attend to her because she had problems with her current Dr. but this is just part one of their story. 3.5 🌟🌟🌟✨
•Sanitorium is a really gripping story, Molly and Lizzie are twins but Molly is the one admitted and Lizzie is a nurse at serenity institute and I don’t think they have the right twin inside😈. 5🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Wonderful demented stories, what a crazy ride.
I love to read about mental illnesses and their carriers and these six stories where so good especially for me Echo by Dani René but every story had their special place.
•In Echo I loved Ansel and Katya, she has one of the most interesting mental illness in my opinion she has Dissociative Identity Disorder. She has a doble personality and He is the director of the institute trying to help her, it’s sooo good! 5🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
•In Marbh I had no idea what I was reading, I cannot say much because I would be giving it away but she has type of mental illness that each day erases it self and start a new fantasy, it was a really interesting story and that end! Omg it was a really good one.
3.5🌟🌟🌟✨
•Hostile Illusions... gawd!!! I cried so much in this one, that story was a beautiful trauma. She doesn’t remember what happens to her until she has mastery visitor at night, ok that’s all I’m saying about this one. 5🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
•Mr. cat is not real, kind of a bdsm story, Nina suffers from hallucinations, she sees a Cat that tells her that nobody likes her and that he is the only one that cares. Her Doctor, Dr. Nickelsen is trying to help her get rid of those hallucinations by some not conventional methods 😉. 4🌟🌟🌟🌟
•Release me, Brynh has a bipolar disorder with hyper sexuality and Dr. Richard Dunnington has been called to attend to her because she had problems with her current Dr. but this is just part one of their story. 3.5 🌟🌟🌟✨
•Sanitorium is a really gripping story, Molly and Lizzie are twins but Molly is the one admitted and Lizzie is a nurse at serenity institute and I don’t think they have the right twin inside😈. 5🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Wonderful demented stories, what a crazy ride.
July 1, 2020
Shiiiiiiiittt. This book is dark AF. Like DARK. A. F.
The Institute is a collection of six short stories that are gritty, dark, gut-wrenchingly sad and to be honest, I have no words to express the amount of emotional turmoil this book out me through. The characters are scarily real and each of of them made me weep at their injustice. Beautiful souls trapped within their own minds without a way to escape and cruelly hot and punishing men who try to their level best to free them. Damn, this book was INSANE.
Book 1: Echo
A tale of a girl, Katya Petrov, with Dissociative Identity Disorder, her alter ego, Rose, who is a the more volatile of the two and Dr. Ansel Sterling, the one desperately trying to sort out his emotions regarding the girls.
The least emotionally devastating of the lot IMO
Book 2: Marbh
Marbh whole heartedly believes that she is the Laird of Duncan's right-hand woman, his wife-to-be and an assassin. Dr. Miller offers her soul liberation when she finally learns the fate of her beloved Iuan.
Features an unconventional HEA. The ending may break your heart. Loved this one💝
Book 3: Hostile Illusions
This is a beautiful and heartbreaking tale of Vera/ Lacey and Tate.
I honest to god cried so damn bad. I don't know if shit like this can actually happen but I don't want to find out and can only hope that this was the product of an over-active imagination.
Book 4: Mr.Cat is not real
Nina Davis is trying her best to stay away from Mr. Cat. No one believes her but Nina knows the truth. Everything bad that has happened is all because of him. Mr. Cat argues that all of it was for her own safety and that he is the only one who can protect her while Dr. Nickelson and Tom try their best to help Nina seperate hallucination from reality.
Possibly the most intense of them all. This one broke me. It was so well-written that Nina's feelings literally became my own. Her desperation tugged on all my heart strings and damn if I didn't melt for this broken ball of moonlight. The book also confused me a bit though. I don't know if the pleasure and pain therapy Dr.Nickelson uses to cure her is really valid or if they are just taking advantage of Nina's vulnerability. Whatever it is, I still love Nina.
Book 5: Release Me
Brynn Holliday suffers from Bi-polar Hypersexuality Disorder and specialist Richard Dunnington is brought in to control her.
It was okay. Not much to say here.
Book 6: Sanitorium
Molly believes that she has sexual deviancy because Dr. James Manning, her therapist told her so. James seems like a nice guy to her and her sister Lizzie is trying her best to take care of her. But when Molly finally seems to be getting better, Lizzie doesn't seem to like her progress. What's really happening to Molly?
This book was an awesome tale with some sweet revenge at the end. Loved it!
...
So this whole collection was honestly really satisfying and anyone looking for your next dark read can pick this up. But, there are a lot of triggers here from graphic rape to murder to literally every trigger you could have. Tread with caution.
I wish you strength to handle this book. Happy Reading!
The Institute is a collection of six short stories that are gritty, dark, gut-wrenchingly sad and to be honest, I have no words to express the amount of emotional turmoil this book out me through. The characters are scarily real and each of of them made me weep at their injustice. Beautiful souls trapped within their own minds without a way to escape and cruelly hot and punishing men who try to their level best to free them. Damn, this book was INSANE.
Book 1: Echo
A tale of a girl, Katya Petrov, with Dissociative Identity Disorder, her alter ego, Rose, who is a the more volatile of the two and Dr. Ansel Sterling, the one desperately trying to sort out his emotions regarding the girls.
The least emotionally devastating of the lot IMO
Book 2: Marbh
Marbh whole heartedly believes that she is the Laird of Duncan's right-hand woman, his wife-to-be and an assassin. Dr. Miller offers her soul liberation when she finally learns the fate of her beloved Iuan.
Features an unconventional HEA. The ending may break your heart. Loved this one💝
Book 3: Hostile Illusions
This is a beautiful and heartbreaking tale of Vera/ Lacey and Tate.
I honest to god cried so damn bad. I don't know if shit like this can actually happen but I don't want to find out and can only hope that this was the product of an over-active imagination.
Book 4: Mr.Cat is not real
Nina Davis is trying her best to stay away from Mr. Cat. No one believes her but Nina knows the truth. Everything bad that has happened is all because of him. Mr. Cat argues that all of it was for her own safety and that he is the only one who can protect her while Dr. Nickelson and Tom try their best to help Nina seperate hallucination from reality.
Possibly the most intense of them all. This one broke me. It was so well-written that Nina's feelings literally became my own. Her desperation tugged on all my heart strings and damn if I didn't melt for this broken ball of moonlight. The book also confused me a bit though. I don't know if the pleasure and pain therapy Dr.Nickelson uses to cure her is really valid or if they are just taking advantage of Nina's vulnerability. Whatever it is, I still love Nina.
Book 5: Release Me
Brynn Holliday suffers from Bi-polar Hypersexuality Disorder and specialist Richard Dunnington is brought in to control her.
It was okay. Not much to say here.
Book 6: Sanitorium
Molly believes that she has sexual deviancy because Dr. James Manning, her therapist told her so. James seems like a nice guy to her and her sister Lizzie is trying her best to take care of her. But when Molly finally seems to be getting better, Lizzie doesn't seem to like her progress. What's really happening to Molly?
This book was an awesome tale with some sweet revenge at the end. Loved it!
...
So this whole collection was honestly really satisfying and anyone looking for your next dark read can pick this up. But, there are a lot of triggers here from graphic rape to murder to literally every trigger you could have. Tread with caution.
I wish you strength to handle this book. Happy Reading!
May 3, 2020
I received a copy of this book from the publisher/author to review for Stephanie's Book Reports.
Serenity is an illusion. The deranged. The demented. The unstable. Six stories, non-stop madness.
Dear Readers
I trust this letter finds you well. It is with the utmost concern that we invite you to join us at the infamous Serenity Institute. You'll be able to observe the ongoings of the asylum, meet the patients and the doctors. We do however ask that you be quiet. Do not interact with the patients, and respect the special treatments our doctors administer. This is where nightmares come alive. A home for the shattered psyche of its patients. Hope is lost when they cross the threshold. The deranged. The demented. The unstable. Six stories, six authors, non-stop madness.
Kind Regards,
The Authors.
I have this love hate relationship with anthologies. I am not so much a fan of the stories just ending and your left going what the heck ...there is no ending. Some of the stories in the anthology do that so I am hoping that we get a lot of full sized novels out of this anthology, It is dark and twisted and some stories let you decide the ending. These are the doctors and patients of The Institute. Some have multiple personalities, some think they lived in Scotland in the time of Lards and some just have a lot of things mentally wrong with them. You get to see their story from the side of therapy and when they did not have their therapy. I loved this book and could not put it down. If you love dark twisted stories then you will love this anthology too.
Serenity is an illusion. The deranged. The demented. The unstable. Six stories, non-stop madness.
Dear Readers
I trust this letter finds you well. It is with the utmost concern that we invite you to join us at the infamous Serenity Institute. You'll be able to observe the ongoings of the asylum, meet the patients and the doctors. We do however ask that you be quiet. Do not interact with the patients, and respect the special treatments our doctors administer. This is where nightmares come alive. A home for the shattered psyche of its patients. Hope is lost when they cross the threshold. The deranged. The demented. The unstable. Six stories, six authors, non-stop madness.
Kind Regards,
The Authors.
I have this love hate relationship with anthologies. I am not so much a fan of the stories just ending and your left going what the heck ...there is no ending. Some of the stories in the anthology do that so I am hoping that we get a lot of full sized novels out of this anthology, It is dark and twisted and some stories let you decide the ending. These are the doctors and patients of The Institute. Some have multiple personalities, some think they lived in Scotland in the time of Lards and some just have a lot of things mentally wrong with them. You get to see their story from the side of therapy and when they did not have their therapy. I loved this book and could not put it down. If you love dark twisted stories then you will love this anthology too.
April 30, 2020
Been looking forward to this anthology as soon as I heard about it, from the blurb alone I knew it would be everything this black heart thriller lover desired. Here are some brief reviews on a few of the stories, but anthology as a whole is definitely a must click.
Welcome to Serenity Institute, leave your sanity at the door...
ECHO BY DANI RENÉ:
Short but riveting start to this amazing anthology. Was a perfect intro to warp your mind into the right headspace. Hope Dani expands on it at some point.
MARBH BY ANNA EDWARDS:
Not something I would normally read but kept going to see what on earth was going on. Wasn't sure what was true or in the patients head. So glad I stuck with it for that last chapter alone..
HOSTILE ILLUSIONS BY INDIA R ADAMS:
India's story telling always amazes me especially how deep she gets you thinking on subjects tend to pretend don't happen. Your head will be spinning by the last chapter. Make sure you read this one. She is always a must read author for me and this short story shows why.
Welcome to Serenity Institute, leave your sanity at the door...
ECHO BY DANI RENÉ:
Short but riveting start to this amazing anthology. Was a perfect intro to warp your mind into the right headspace. Hope Dani expands on it at some point.
MARBH BY ANNA EDWARDS:
Not something I would normally read but kept going to see what on earth was going on. Wasn't sure what was true or in the patients head. So glad I stuck with it for that last chapter alone..
HOSTILE ILLUSIONS BY INDIA R ADAMS:
India's story telling always amazes me especially how deep she gets you thinking on subjects tend to pretend don't happen. Your head will be spinning by the last chapter. Make sure you read this one. She is always a must read author for me and this short story shows why.
May 4, 2020
The Institute by Dani René
5 STARS ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Six stories, six authors, non-stop madness.
Deliciously dark and 🔥.
1. Echo by Dani Rene
2. Marbh by Anna Edwards
3. Hostile Illusion by India R Adams
4. Mr Cat Is Not Real by Jennifer Bene
5. Release Me by Murphy Wallace
6. Sanitorim by Sian B. Claven
All the authors, besides Dani Rene, were a first read for me, and I enjoyed their stories so much. It was so unexpected.
I have to confess that I had others expectations, but I was pleased.
I must say that I was curious, waited and hope till the end. I would've loved to see story from another point of view, female doctor and male patient, but I loved the anthology even so.
5 STARS ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Six stories, six authors, non-stop madness.
Deliciously dark and 🔥.
1. Echo by Dani Rene
2. Marbh by Anna Edwards
3. Hostile Illusion by India R Adams
4. Mr Cat Is Not Real by Jennifer Bene
5. Release Me by Murphy Wallace
6. Sanitorim by Sian B. Claven
All the authors, besides Dani Rene, were a first read for me, and I enjoyed their stories so much. It was so unexpected.
I have to confess that I had others expectations, but I was pleased.
I must say that I was curious, waited and hope till the end. I would've loved to see story from another point of view, female doctor and male patient, but I loved the anthology even so.
April 30, 2020
This has to be my favorite anthology ever and I can’t wait to see which authors will release these stories into full length novels. Serenity institute is so dark and twisted and kept me on the edge of my seat with every single story. Each author tells the story of a different patient and there “special” relationship with there doctor and I do mean “special”!!!!
May 2, 2020
I love anthologies. They always are my go to for when I need something to distract me and I don't have time to dig into a full book. I loved the premise of this anthology because the stories were all different but somehow tied to the Serenity Institute. I had to laugh a little at the idea that this was the name because there truly was nothing serene about it. The stories all have a different idea of how to go about treating the sexually insane. I highly recommend this book if dark, taboo, and dirty are your cup of tea.
Echo by Dani Rene
This was definitely a different story than I was expecting. I knew that going in, that it would not be all sugar and spice and everything nice. That being said, I liked certain parts of it and others I didn’t. I think that this is because it was trying to tell a lot of story in a short amount of space and I found myself trying to understand the dynamic between Ansel and Rose/Katya. The story still kept my interest and that can largely be attributed to the fact that this author is fantastic and one that I have loved since I first discovered the Black Light series books.
Marbh by Anna Edwards
I really enjoyed this story and wished that it too, had been longer because the premise of this story was remarkable. I don’t even like stories that are set in the time of the flashbacks but I would have read this one in a heartbeat. I light the supernatural twists of this story and how it all came together in this story.
Hostile Illusions by India R. Adams
This author never ceases to mesmerize me with her stories. Even stories that are dark or have darker elements (The Waters series) she still makes it poignant and beautiful when it shouldn’t be. This story was a great example of that. I loved the characters in this one. My heart hurt for them. It hurt what they had to endure but, moreover, it hurt that only had these moments to feel the gentle caress that love, and kindness offered. BRAVO to this author on this one. It packed a lot into a little bit of space.
Mr. Cat is not Real by Jennifer Bene
Leave it to the mind of this sheer genius of an author to give new meaning to the word, “Therapy”. I felt bad for Nina because she seemed to truly want to discover what was real and what was not. At times, she seemed very cognizant which is what surprised me because most people that have such severe paranoia are not which is the only reason that this was not a full five star for me but I could be being nitpicky here too since I did like the fact that she was wanting to be cured. Regardless, anything by this author is fantastic.
Release Me by Murphy Wallace
This story was a pleasant surprise. I was drawn in by Brynn and her need for sexual contact. It made me posit whether it was her childhood that conditioned her or whether it was the stimulus of just having human contact as the catalyst. Perhaps, it was both. There seemed to be an almost disconnect between what would happen when she blacked out. I wanted to know the reasons behind it. This story will be continued. It didn’t end on a cliffhanger as one would think but more a natural Segway into what happens next in Brynn’s Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
Sanitorium by Sian B Claven
Holy cow. I was not expecting the twists in the story. To say that this would be a surprise would be an understatement. This is a new to me author but one I will surely be looking for more from. I had no idea if things were really happening, and if they really were how much of it was imaginary and how much of it was based on memories. I could not tell if the Doctor was good or bad, nor could I tell if the sister was. VERY well done.
Echo by Dani Rene
This was definitely a different story than I was expecting. I knew that going in, that it would not be all sugar and spice and everything nice. That being said, I liked certain parts of it and others I didn’t. I think that this is because it was trying to tell a lot of story in a short amount of space and I found myself trying to understand the dynamic between Ansel and Rose/Katya. The story still kept my interest and that can largely be attributed to the fact that this author is fantastic and one that I have loved since I first discovered the Black Light series books.
Marbh by Anna Edwards
I really enjoyed this story and wished that it too, had been longer because the premise of this story was remarkable. I don’t even like stories that are set in the time of the flashbacks but I would have read this one in a heartbeat. I light the supernatural twists of this story and how it all came together in this story.
Hostile Illusions by India R. Adams
This author never ceases to mesmerize me with her stories. Even stories that are dark or have darker elements (The Waters series) she still makes it poignant and beautiful when it shouldn’t be. This story was a great example of that. I loved the characters in this one. My heart hurt for them. It hurt what they had to endure but, moreover, it hurt that only had these moments to feel the gentle caress that love, and kindness offered. BRAVO to this author on this one. It packed a lot into a little bit of space.
Mr. Cat is not Real by Jennifer Bene
Leave it to the mind of this sheer genius of an author to give new meaning to the word, “Therapy”. I felt bad for Nina because she seemed to truly want to discover what was real and what was not. At times, she seemed very cognizant which is what surprised me because most people that have such severe paranoia are not which is the only reason that this was not a full five star for me but I could be being nitpicky here too since I did like the fact that she was wanting to be cured. Regardless, anything by this author is fantastic.
Release Me by Murphy Wallace
This story was a pleasant surprise. I was drawn in by Brynn and her need for sexual contact. It made me posit whether it was her childhood that conditioned her or whether it was the stimulus of just having human contact as the catalyst. Perhaps, it was both. There seemed to be an almost disconnect between what would happen when she blacked out. I wanted to know the reasons behind it. This story will be continued. It didn’t end on a cliffhanger as one would think but more a natural Segway into what happens next in Brynn’s Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
Sanitorium by Sian B Claven
Holy cow. I was not expecting the twists in the story. To say that this would be a surprise would be an understatement. This is a new to me author but one I will surely be looking for more from. I had no idea if things were really happening, and if they really were how much of it was imaginary and how much of it was based on memories. I could not tell if the Doctor was good or bad, nor could I tell if the sister was. VERY well done.
August 6, 2020
Dark, sexy and twisted tales from inside of Serenity, a home for the criminally insane or grade A deviants.
I liked the way that this anthology was all set in the same place. I wish they were a bit more connected but they definitely brought out the crazy from inside the walls. Some of these authors I have read in the past, so I knew what I was getting into and some of them were new to me and fit right in.
This starts with Echo by Dani Rene, a bit of split-personality mixed with the taboo doctor Ansel. This was sexy in a very naughty type of way. Our good doctor is almost just as devious as his patient. This moved very quickly and while it certainly kept my attention it seemed to end faster than I expected.
Marbh by Anna Edwards, was a what in the ever-loving-world did I just read, type of story. It was really fascinating and completely unexpected. It's about a woman caught up in a world that she doesn't quite belong in and the very hard-core and bloody type of journey to figure out how to get to where she belongs.
Then to move onto Hostile Illusion by India R Adams, which was another, holy mother what in the world, type of read. This one was heartbreaking on all accounts. Another ending that I did not anticipate and out of all the stories, probably the one that will stay with me the most. Just thinking about it hurts my heart.
Mr Cat Is Not Real by Jennifer Bene, might have been the craziest of the bunch of stories. JB is a new to me author and this was wildly imaginative and pretty dark. What is real, what is not real, and how does the little patient figure it all out. This little story was crazy.
Release Me by Murphy Wallace was a scorcher and I am glad it's not complete. There were not enough pages to do this story justice and I am really glad there will be more of it. This patient is naughty, naughty but when she goes too far being locked down in exactly what she does not need. Enter the sexy doctor to come and fix her broken and you have yourself a dark and sizzling little bite.
Lastly was Sanitorium by Sian B Claven, this is also a new to me author. This tale had a bit of mystery to go along with the twins. Quite messed up, with a lot of "hallucinations" this was a nice dark ending to this crazy ride.
April 30, 2020
This anthology is packed full of great authors and fantastic stories. These stories may not have the happily ever afters that people expect, but they are fantastic stories.
Dani Rene-Echo
Wow. The whole time I was reading this, I was wondering if Katya or Rose was really the original. I loved it.
Anna Edwards-Marbh
The ending of this was just perfect for this story. I wouldn't change a single word of it. It left me happy and wanting more altogether.
India R. Adams-Hostile Illusions
Oh my fucking god.
Jennifer Bene-Mr. Cat Is Not Real
Only, I'm pretty sure that he might be. He isn't necessarily very nice though.
Murphy Wallace-Release Me
Oh my. I like Brynn, mostly. She really has an interesting look on life, and I hope that her doctor can help her, because he seems like he really can.
Sian B. Claven-Sanitorium
Identical twin sisters are both at the hospital, Molly as a patient, Lizzie as the nurse treating her. I thought that Molly was incredibly sweet, and I really wanted her to have all kinds of happiness.
Fantastic stories by fantastic authors.
Dani Rene-Echo
Wow. The whole time I was reading this, I was wondering if Katya or Rose was really the original. I loved it.
Anna Edwards-Marbh
The ending of this was just perfect for this story. I wouldn't change a single word of it. It left me happy and wanting more altogether.
India R. Adams-Hostile Illusions
Oh my fucking god.
Jennifer Bene-Mr. Cat Is Not Real
Only, I'm pretty sure that he might be. He isn't necessarily very nice though.
Murphy Wallace-Release Me
Oh my. I like Brynn, mostly. She really has an interesting look on life, and I hope that her doctor can help her, because he seems like he really can.
Sian B. Claven-Sanitorium
Identical twin sisters are both at the hospital, Molly as a patient, Lizzie as the nurse treating her. I thought that Molly was incredibly sweet, and I really wanted her to have all kinds of happiness.
Fantastic stories by fantastic authors.
May 1, 2020
The Institute is a collection of deliciously dark reads by 6 amazing authors: Dani Rene, Anna Edwards, India R. Adams, Jennifer Bene, Murphy Wallace and Sian B. Claven. Each story is a standalone but all set in an institute to help those with ‘issues’. The stories focus on almost demented heroines, who are smart, dark, jaded by the system but who have backbones of steel when faced with adversity. Add into the mix is some dark and deadly characters and you are left guessing about who should be locked up!
Each story weaves a dark and sensual story which leaves you gripping the edge of your seat. There are some unusual methods to helping these women as well as some unusual stories of heartbreak, darkness and intrigue mixed into an almost Gothic like setting. This was a really enjoyable anthology to read and has left me wanting to read more by all of the authors.
ARC received for a fair, honest and sometimes long review 😊
More of my reviews can be found on my blog: https://thehotmesslibrary.blogspot.com
Each story weaves a dark and sensual story which leaves you gripping the edge of your seat. There are some unusual methods to helping these women as well as some unusual stories of heartbreak, darkness and intrigue mixed into an almost Gothic like setting. This was a really enjoyable anthology to read and has left me wanting to read more by all of the authors.
ARC received for a fair, honest and sometimes long review 😊
More of my reviews can be found on my blog: https://thehotmesslibrary.blogspot.com
April 29, 2020
I am at a total loss for words with this , each author puts you in a totally different mind space , and I freaking love it.
Dani Rene has Echo
To me it is almost like the whole Dr. Jeckel and Mr. Hyde and I love it.
Then we have Marbh by Anna Edwards
Love the main character, hated that it was a short story but still loved it.
Next we have India R Adams with Hostile Illusion
All I can say is perfectly dark !!!
Next is Mr. Cat is not real by Jennifer Bene
Ok the title alone made me want to read it but the story made me want to climb in the book and work the story how I wanted for Nina
Next is Release me by Murphy Wallace
I love that we are going to get more from this story at a later date!!! I am waiting on pins and needles
Finally we have Sanatorium by Sian B Claven
This one was perfect for the last of this visit to the Institute and I hope we get to visit once again
Dani Rene has Echo
To me it is almost like the whole Dr. Jeckel and Mr. Hyde and I love it.
Then we have Marbh by Anna Edwards
Love the main character, hated that it was a short story but still loved it.
Next we have India R Adams with Hostile Illusion
All I can say is perfectly dark !!!
Next is Mr. Cat is not real by Jennifer Bene
Ok the title alone made me want to read it but the story made me want to climb in the book and work the story how I wanted for Nina
Next is Release me by Murphy Wallace
I love that we are going to get more from this story at a later date!!! I am waiting on pins and needles
Finally we have Sanatorium by Sian B Claven
This one was perfect for the last of this visit to the Institute and I hope we get to visit once again
May 3, 2020
I've read the stories but am touching on Jennifer Bene's story. Mr. Cat Is Not Real was a mind blowing story for me. My mind kept telling me this was a twisted up and messed up story but at the same time, I couldn't put it down. Nina's emotional outbursts were something I felt all the way to my bones!!! And when she was getting her daily "treatments"............wow!!! In the end, I honestly wanted more to this story. I wanted to see if Nina would ever find her way back to a normal life or if this was how she would be from now on. Chalk me up as loving this story!!!!!!! You were right, JB!!!
The rest of the stories were good. Some darker than others and it was hard to read them but they were still all written very well.
The rest of the stories were good. Some darker than others and it was hard to read them but they were still all written very well.
April 30, 2020
This is a collection of stories from some amazing authors !! I’m just going to give a overall review of this anthology and I’m telling you if you like erotically dark , twisted, stories that fuck with your mind than you need this book ! Each author brought there own brand of darkness to there stories and made it there own ! Wow ! Crazy , twisted , dirty , dark , filthy are just a few words that come to mind when I think of these stories This is a must read for the dark lovers and definite 5 stars from me !!!
May 24, 2020
A series of dark, somewhat disturbing stories set in a very unconventional mental institution. Be warned, its full of triggers and not for the faint hearted and you're never quite sure whether the doctors have their patients best interests completely at heart or not. There is certainly a lot of "ahem" unorthodox treatment going on.....
Overall I enjoyed this anthology, some stories more than others. If you love dark and twisted, a fair amount of dub con and not your normal hea, I'd say give this anthology a go!
1. Echo - Dani Rene
Dr Ansel is the head of the institute and is treating Rose. I liked the concept of this story but the ending didnt quite work for me. It felt a bit forced.
2. Marbh - Anna Edwards
I really liked this story, Marbh was intriguing, dark and dangerous. Was there was a hint of the supernatural or was it all in her head? Did she deserve what she got? You'll have to make your mind up, but true love never dies. That ending was perfect.
3. Hostile Illusion - India R Adams
It was tragic, heartbreakingly sad and brutally violent, but beautiful how a soul deep love can grow in such darkness. I loved this story even though it reduced me to floods of tears, but it's made me want to read more by this author. My favourite of the anthology.
4. Mr Cat is not Real - Jennifer Bene
Nina and Mr Cat have a strange but destructive relationship. I went from thinking what is this treatment, is it for real or is she being taken advantage of, then omg it's kind of working! I hope there will be more, especially now her friend Tom is involved in her recovery, although there is definite dub con here even if Nina is enjoying it!
5. Release Me - Murphy Wallace
Dr Dick and a sex addict, yes that made me chuckle too! It was dark and dirty and it looks like there will be more to this story. I'll be looking out for it as I'd love to read it.
6. Sanitorium - Sian B Claven
This was dark and disturbing, I went through most of this story horrified and confused, thinking poor Molly is getting worse not better with her nurse twin Lizzie and Dr James looking after her, but I had a feeling all was not right. Great ending with new orderly Christian and the perfect very deserved dark twist.
Overall I enjoyed this anthology, some stories more than others. If you love dark and twisted, a fair amount of dub con and not your normal hea, I'd say give this anthology a go!
1. Echo - Dani Rene
Dr Ansel is the head of the institute and is treating Rose. I liked the concept of this story but the ending didnt quite work for me. It felt a bit forced.
2. Marbh - Anna Edwards
I really liked this story, Marbh was intriguing, dark and dangerous. Was there was a hint of the supernatural or was it all in her head? Did she deserve what she got? You'll have to make your mind up, but true love never dies. That ending was perfect.
3. Hostile Illusion - India R Adams
It was tragic, heartbreakingly sad and brutally violent, but beautiful how a soul deep love can grow in such darkness. I loved this story even though it reduced me to floods of tears, but it's made me want to read more by this author. My favourite of the anthology.
4. Mr Cat is not Real - Jennifer Bene
Nina and Mr Cat have a strange but destructive relationship. I went from thinking what is this treatment, is it for real or is she being taken advantage of, then omg it's kind of working! I hope there will be more, especially now her friend Tom is involved in her recovery, although there is definite dub con here even if Nina is enjoying it!
5. Release Me - Murphy Wallace
Dr Dick and a sex addict, yes that made me chuckle too! It was dark and dirty and it looks like there will be more to this story. I'll be looking out for it as I'd love to read it.
6. Sanitorium - Sian B Claven
This was dark and disturbing, I went through most of this story horrified and confused, thinking poor Molly is getting worse not better with her nurse twin Lizzie and Dr James looking after her, but I had a feeling all was not right. Great ending with new orderly Christian and the perfect very deserved dark twist.
April 29, 2020
The Institute by Dani Rene, Jennifer Bene, Anna Edwards, India Adams, Murphy Wallace and Sian B. Craven is a set of 6 stories by 6 author. The stories are set in an asylum called Serenity Institute. The book starts with a story that introduces us to the Dr. who established the asylum and why. We also get our first peek at the residents of Serenity. At one time or another I have read each of these authors and have liked the stories they have told. I was not disappointed. Some stories I enjoyed more than others. Each author told a story about a different resident. How they got there and their illness. The approach the doctors took to cure their patients was far from orthodox. I am a dark and twisted kind of gal and I can say one of these stories was almost too much for me to get through. Loved it. Fortunately for us some of these stories will be turned into or the start of a full novel. Looking forward to reading them. The first story was a good beginning to this book and the last story was a fabulous ending to this book. 4.5 stars for me.
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