What do you think?
Rate this book
The Pain Eater: A Sadie Reed Story
THE PAIN A Sadie Reed Story. GRIPPING. STYLISTIC. UNIQUE.For most people, discovering the truth of who you are can be a harrowing journey, but when you're 21-year-old Sadie Reed, discovering your truth can be downright deadly.
After her twenty-first birthday, Sadie has an undeniable vision and learns she's psychic. She uses her gift to reconnect with her estranged father and spirals down an emotional rabbit hole...
When she has a vision of missing woman, Maxine Powell, being brutally murdered, she learns true evil does exist-- and it’s killing gifted women just like her.
With the help of her best friend, Adrian, whom she is falling in love with, and Angel, an old dying Psychic, Sadie embarks on a journey to find the missing woman and quickly learns the path to her full potential lies within death.
Will it be hers, or someone she cares about?
The Pain Eater uniquely touches on the lasting pain associated with loss, the power within true love, and the strength of family. A PARANORMAL THRILLER FOR THE MISFITS, THE GIFTED, THE BRASS UNIQUENESS OF CREATION.
After her twenty-first birthday, Sadie has an undeniable vision and learns she's psychic. She uses her gift to reconnect with her estranged father and spirals down an emotional rabbit hole...
When she has a vision of missing woman, Maxine Powell, being brutally murdered, she learns true evil does exist-- and it’s killing gifted women just like her.
With the help of her best friend, Adrian, whom she is falling in love with, and Angel, an old dying Psychic, Sadie embarks on a journey to find the missing woman and quickly learns the path to her full potential lies within death.
Will it be hers, or someone she cares about?
The Pain Eater uniquely touches on the lasting pain associated with loss, the power within true love, and the strength of family. A PARANORMAL THRILLER FOR THE MISFITS, THE GIFTED, THE BRASS UNIQUENESS OF CREATION.
374 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 28, 2020
8 people are currently reading
31 people want to read
About the author
LaShane Arnett
9 books34 followersLaShane Arnett is an African American poet and author living in Southern California with her husband of thirty+ years. She is the author of The Sadie Reed Series. The first book in the series, The Pain Eater, is highly recommended for anyone who loves Paranormal Thrillers.
LaShane’s work has appeared in various personal print-only journals including Jeremy R. Richey’s Soledad. She has a very “unique voice and writing style” (Judge, 29th Annual Writers Digest Self-Published Book Awards), which gives her books an edge and puts them in a category all their own.
When LaShane isn’t writing she enjoys spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren, and her dogs.
Although her first published book Go Ask LaShane is a collection of short stories and poetry, she is a lover of Horror and Supernatural. Be on the lookout for The Magic Man, the second book in her Sadie Reed Series, and Go Ask LaShane Vol. 2 My Human Experience.
LaShane’s work has appeared in various personal print-only journals including Jeremy R. Richey’s Soledad. She has a very “unique voice and writing style” (Judge, 29th Annual Writers Digest Self-Published Book Awards), which gives her books an edge and puts them in a category all their own.
When LaShane isn’t writing she enjoys spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren, and her dogs.
Although her first published book Go Ask LaShane is a collection of short stories and poetry, she is a lover of Horror and Supernatural. Be on the lookout for The Magic Man, the second book in her Sadie Reed Series, and Go Ask LaShane Vol. 2 My Human Experience.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
September 13, 2022
What a rich, psychological paranormal read. So much to unpack in this story! Much more than your typical urban fantasy or paranormal fiction, there was a lot of depth to the MC and a strong storyline of finding oneself and dealing with family and trauma.
"Grief is relentless. It infects your mind. Moves through your thoughts. Becomes the ache behind your eyes, swollen and wet."
Just one quote I marked. Definitely a lot of emotion packed into this one and a distinctive addition to the genre!
"Grief is relentless. It infects your mind. Moves through your thoughts. Becomes the ache behind your eyes, swollen and wet."
Just one quote I marked. Definitely a lot of emotion packed into this one and a distinctive addition to the genre!
October 14, 2022
What an AMAZING debut! First, let’s talk about the cover for a second…it’s so breathtaking! And it’s the author’s youngest daughter who is gorgeous!! This book was so intriguing and a page-turner! I really loved Sadie and Adrian. I could feel Sadie’s grief and her wide range of emotions. Adrian brought some humor to this book and I loved how much he cared for Sadie. LaShane Arnett is an incredibly talented and creative writer! I can’t wait to read book 2!
April 7, 2023
The Pain Eater by @lashanewrites had me absolutely captivated from the very first page. 22 year old Sadie Reed’s story to self discovery is full of so much pain and heartache as she learns to navigate the hidden secrets of her past and the power that resides within her. With the help of Adrian (Sadie’s BFF) & Angel (a psychic woman who I absolutely adore!), she begins to connect the dots to the hard questions she finds herself asking.
LaShane has written such a unique thriller that had me on the edge of my seat. Her words were knitted together so eloquently, it made reading The Pain Eater play out like a movie in my mind. It was truly such a wonderful experience being able to get lost within these pages and step into Sadie’s world.
Thank you @lashane for writing such a gripping novel that I couldn’t put down and made me loathe anyone who made me! I can say without a shred of doubt, you are by far one of my favorite authors I’ve had the pleasure of coming across and I look forward to reading more of your work! I can’t wait for amazon to deliver “The Magic Man” to me! 😁
LaShane has written such a unique thriller that had me on the edge of my seat. Her words were knitted together so eloquently, it made reading The Pain Eater play out like a movie in my mind. It was truly such a wonderful experience being able to get lost within these pages and step into Sadie’s world.
Thank you @lashane for writing such a gripping novel that I couldn’t put down and made me loathe anyone who made me! I can say without a shred of doubt, you are by far one of my favorite authors I’ve had the pleasure of coming across and I look forward to reading more of your work! I can’t wait for amazon to deliver “The Magic Man” to me! 😁
September 25, 2022
Beautiful, intriguing, suspenseful and a page turner.
The cover was enticing enough, but the way the author wrote her story in such a poetic way kept the pages turning. My life is extremely busy so it takes me a while to read a novel, but I couldn’t help but read every second I had available for this supernatural thriller. Sadie and Adrian was a compelling story that left me wanting to see where the story goes next. It’s hard to say more without spoiling major plot details, but the structure of the story and the way it lays out makes you care for the characters all while keeping you engaged and anxious for the next plot detail. The supernatural elements are perfectly intertwined to maintain a provocative story.
For me, the plot point of dealing with grief and how to handle it touched home as an advocate of mental health. I can’t wait for the follow up to this and can’t wait to enter into this world again. Lashane Arnett is a very talented author. Bravo!
The cover was enticing enough, but the way the author wrote her story in such a poetic way kept the pages turning. My life is extremely busy so it takes me a while to read a novel, but I couldn’t help but read every second I had available for this supernatural thriller. Sadie and Adrian was a compelling story that left me wanting to see where the story goes next. It’s hard to say more without spoiling major plot details, but the structure of the story and the way it lays out makes you care for the characters all while keeping you engaged and anxious for the next plot detail. The supernatural elements are perfectly intertwined to maintain a provocative story.
For me, the plot point of dealing with grief and how to handle it touched home as an advocate of mental health. I can’t wait for the follow up to this and can’t wait to enter into this world again. Lashane Arnett is a very talented author. Bravo!
February 22, 2023
Great supernatural thriller
The Pain Eater is an elegantly written supernatural thriller. It follows the first person development of a young protagonist who is coming to terms with her unusual abilities while also learning of different people with different abnormal skills.
The roller coaster story gets very dark as Sadie can tap into traumatic experiences and visually see their torment. The secret depression in lives of others around her almost have their own characters.
Sadie had her own traumatic experience as a child. After her mother’s mysterious death, she struggles to connect with her father. Adrian, her closest childhood friend, becomes her anchor and is beside her all along the way as she meets other characters, trying to understand her past and find her missing dad.
Definitely worth the read and I’m hoping the story will continue!
The Pain Eater is an elegantly written supernatural thriller. It follows the first person development of a young protagonist who is coming to terms with her unusual abilities while also learning of different people with different abnormal skills.
The roller coaster story gets very dark as Sadie can tap into traumatic experiences and visually see their torment. The secret depression in lives of others around her almost have their own characters.
Sadie had her own traumatic experience as a child. After her mother’s mysterious death, she struggles to connect with her father. Adrian, her closest childhood friend, becomes her anchor and is beside her all along the way as she meets other characters, trying to understand her past and find her missing dad.
Definitely worth the read and I’m hoping the story will continue!
October 4, 2022
I received a complimentary copy of this book from R&R Book Tours.
I voluntarily chose to read and post an honest review.
Sadie was born special, different than other babies. She could “read other babies.” As she grew, her “powers” grew with her. She didn’t quite understand them. At times, they got her in hot water at school. Sadie didn’t have a parent to speak to regarding her abilities. Her mom was stripped of her life (dead), and her father checked out immediately (mentally and often times physically). Sadie was not alone though – she had her best friend Adrian to lean on. A friend who eventually became more than a friend.
With Adrian by her side, she found a psychic (Angel) to help shield her mind and harness her powers. During their brief time together, she learned secrets about her family. These secrets would change her world forever. When Angel passed on, Sadie was thrust head-first into predicaments she wasn’t entirely prepared for. Anxiety, panic attacks, confusion, and fear were emotions constantly bombarding Sadie. I would be scared, too, if I suddenly saw menacing shadows, dead people, and glowing objects.
We met the most interesting characters at Angel’s Celebration of Life shindig. Brianna, the three-boobed woman, gave me flashbacks to the Total Recall movies. There was also the bearded woman, hypnotist, sword swallower, contortionist, and so forth. I’ve never been to a “freak show” before, but I can imagine walking into a room with this group of individuals must’ve been quite an experience.
Through Angel, we learn how Angel became powerful and where Sadie’s powers came from. No spoilers.
The unsub’s identity of who took the numerous women was not divulged in this book; however, the final chapter made me think the sequel will center on him or her. Psychic versus Psychopath – I can’t wait!
If you like paranormal thrillers or believe in psychics, pick up this book!
(Find more reviews/ratings at www.superkambrook.com)
October 15, 2022
I want to start off by saying that I received a complimentary paperback. In return for my honest thoughts and review. I needed a few days to write this review. i wanted to make sure my review shared all my favs in this book. I want to also say that I signed up for rrbooktours. I am so glad that I signed up to review this book. I loved this book so much . This is the first time that I read anything from this author. But let me be completely honest this wont be the last book I read from her. I definitely can’t wait for book 2. And find out what happens with Sadie and Adrian. I loved the paranormal and the gifts. And seeing things. I have never read a book that I was lost in four a long time. Like I was when reading this book. There were moments where I was really sad and worried for Sadie. Adrain is such a sweet heart and such amazing friend to Sadie no matter what was going on he was there. Sadie grew feelings for her best friend but didn’t want to mess their relationship up. Highly recommend this book. Even through I have a paperback. I needed Kindle version too. This book and these characters are my favorite 2022.
About Book:
Sadie is young girl who at young age lot her mother. Sadie has no real memory of her mother. Her father is distant with his daughter. Which he lost the love of his love. has Sadie grew older she would think she has over imagination. When she is in the seventh grade she meets a boy named Adrian. As they both grow older they remain friends. Sadie is welcomed into his family. Sadie has a moment that she realizes she has some gifts. She always felt that she may have gotten these gifts from her mother. Sadie then meets a physic name Angel with helps her with these new things gifts she has.
Highly recommend this book. Can’t wait for book 2
Thank you again to the author for writing such a beautiful and adventurous book with wonderful characters who will hold a special place in my heart.
About Book:
Sadie is young girl who at young age lot her mother. Sadie has no real memory of her mother. Her father is distant with his daughter. Which he lost the love of his love. has Sadie grew older she would think she has over imagination. When she is in the seventh grade she meets a boy named Adrian. As they both grow older they remain friends. Sadie is welcomed into his family. Sadie has a moment that she realizes she has some gifts. She always felt that she may have gotten these gifts from her mother. Sadie then meets a physic name Angel with helps her with these new things gifts she has.
Highly recommend this book. Can’t wait for book 2
Thank you again to the author for writing such a beautiful and adventurous book with wonderful characters who will hold a special place in my heart.
October 15, 2022
Sadie, now in her early 20s, has started having visions and soon learns that she is a psychic. Sadie attempts to use her gift to reconnect with her estranged father and in the process she learns more about herself and her past. One day Sadie has a vision of a woman being brutally murdered and learns that someone is hunting down women like her. Sadie yearns to learn more about her powers and with the help of her best friend Adrian (who she is slowly falling in love with) and a dying psychic named Angel, she begins to unravel more about herself and her powers. Sadie soon learns that her past and the missing woman are more connected than she knew. The path to her full potential lies within death, but will it be her death or someone she cares about?
So this book was really well written and engaging. I found myself loathe to put it down. The only thing is I wish it hadn't been labeled as a paranormal thriller. I think it was a great book, but the missing woman really plays a minor role to the story. The book touches more on aspects of loss, the power of true love, the strength of family and finding oneself. Yes, the main character is a psychic, but for most of the novel her powers are used to help herself and her father process the grief surrounding the loss of her mother. The book covers a lot of deep and heavily emotional topics in a thoughtful manner. I just wish that the missing woman had figured more into the story. You can tell that this book is setting up for more to follow though, which is why I guess it is so heavy on world and character building. Overall, it is a touching examination of grief and the various impacts it has on a person. I would give it five stars but I feel like a lot was left unresolved which just made me sad.
So this book was really well written and engaging. I found myself loathe to put it down. The only thing is I wish it hadn't been labeled as a paranormal thriller. I think it was a great book, but the missing woman really plays a minor role to the story. The book touches more on aspects of loss, the power of true love, the strength of family and finding oneself. Yes, the main character is a psychic, but for most of the novel her powers are used to help herself and her father process the grief surrounding the loss of her mother. The book covers a lot of deep and heavily emotional topics in a thoughtful manner. I just wish that the missing woman had figured more into the story. You can tell that this book is setting up for more to follow though, which is why I guess it is so heavy on world and character building. Overall, it is a touching examination of grief and the various impacts it has on a person. I would give it five stars but I feel like a lot was left unresolved which just made me sad.
December 2, 2022
A paranormal thriller…not a genre I gravitate toward but I’m so glad I picked this one up. We meet Sadie after she finally accepts that she is psychic, an empath who can read people’s minds and so much more. She has spent most of her life mourning the death of her mother and yearning for her father to love her again. I just want to give this girl a hug!
I loved all the characters in this story. LaShane does a brilliant job bringing them to life, giving them their own voice, and making them feel like real people. Adrian is such a goofball I couldn’t help but love him and his childish humor. And Sadie couldn’t have grown as a character without him being there for her. He is her rock.
The story mainly focuses on Sadie learning how to use and control her powers. Meeting others like her. Opening up her mind. Seeing the world in a different way. Throughout her journey, there is an underlining plot that was waiting to explode. And when it finally hit, I wanted more. I cannot wait for the next book!
❗ SPOILER ❗ One of the reasons I don’t tend to read paranormal thrillers is that I’m easily spooked. And man did I get spooked when a shadow or ghost was just hovering in front of Sadie’s closet. Took me a while to go to sleep that night.
I loved all the characters in this story. LaShane does a brilliant job bringing them to life, giving them their own voice, and making them feel like real people. Adrian is such a goofball I couldn’t help but love him and his childish humor. And Sadie couldn’t have grown as a character without him being there for her. He is her rock.
The story mainly focuses on Sadie learning how to use and control her powers. Meeting others like her. Opening up her mind. Seeing the world in a different way. Throughout her journey, there is an underlining plot that was waiting to explode. And when it finally hit, I wanted more. I cannot wait for the next book!
❗ SPOILER ❗ One of the reasons I don’t tend to read paranormal thrillers is that I’m easily spooked. And man did I get spooked when a shadow or ghost was just hovering in front of Sadie’s closet. Took me a while to go to sleep that night.
September 30, 2024
Strange powers abound in this thrilling tale of a woman (Celia) trying to come to terms with her unique abilities. This book falls more into the category of a romantic thriller, as the budding relationship between the narrator and her best friend seems to take over the plot from time to time. As we dive deeper into the story, the girl’s powers intensify, and she begins trying to comprehend bad things that may be about to happen. I was a little confused at times as to the exact nature of her powers, but we eventually learn about her father and others with similar abilities. The action sequences near the end were my favorite, as the paranormal element came head on, and the reader learns more about Celia’s father and the tragic situation involving her mother. The book is well written, and the characters are all pretty likable. This appears to be the first in a series, or at least it left the door open for a sequel.
October 13, 2022
Pain eaters is a supernatural thriller. It focuses on the main character Sadie, who is gifted. From a young age she could read people and had visions, with each vision she can feel the emotions and pain that goes along with it - good and bad.
The whole story is intriguing and the characters are created with a solidness to them, they're so dimensional that they feel real which gives this novel depth. This novel is greatly written, it has it's dark elements but keeps the underlying theme running throughout, which to me was about acceptance and love. Being who you are with good people supporting along the way. The pacing is good and you fall into the novel easily. The mixture of humour, grief and love was expertly written.
The whole story is intriguing and the characters are created with a solidness to them, they're so dimensional that they feel real which gives this novel depth. This novel is greatly written, it has it's dark elements but keeps the underlying theme running throughout, which to me was about acceptance and love. Being who you are with good people supporting along the way. The pacing is good and you fall into the novel easily. The mixture of humour, grief and love was expertly written.
September 28, 2022
If you’re looking for something different to read and want to support a debut author, please check this book out!!! Especially if you like the supernatural world.
Sadie Reed is gifted - she can see the future and, with the help of her best friend and a psychic, digs farther into her gifts. There’s so much more to her story but I don’t want to spoil anything!
I loved the writing style of this book and the storyline is complex, but not confusing. As Sadie has visions, you are truly immersed in them and can feel her fear and emotions. The back of the book says “Loss. Love. Family.” and that beautifully sums up this story. It’s a paranormal thriller that is also equally a mystery, romance and book about grief and self discovery. I can’t wait to see how Sadie grows in the next book!
“Sometimes the bad shit needs to be experienced.”
Thank you to RR Book Tours and the Author for my gifted copy of the book.
Sadie Reed is gifted - she can see the future and, with the help of her best friend and a psychic, digs farther into her gifts. There’s so much more to her story but I don’t want to spoil anything!
I loved the writing style of this book and the storyline is complex, but not confusing. As Sadie has visions, you are truly immersed in them and can feel her fear and emotions. The back of the book says “Loss. Love. Family.” and that beautifully sums up this story. It’s a paranormal thriller that is also equally a mystery, romance and book about grief and self discovery. I can’t wait to see how Sadie grows in the next book!
“Sometimes the bad shit needs to be experienced.”
Thank you to RR Book Tours and the Author for my gifted copy of the book.
October 10, 2022
This book starts off innocently enough, but quickly grabs you and pulls you in for a wild ride. This isn't a straight-up thriller, however - it has a lot of emotional depth, and you can almost feel Sadie's emotions pouring off the page. She was a great narrator, and it feels like she's talking with you, sharing her life. The story itself is captivating, and moves along smoothly. The characters have plenty of depth, and are believable as real people. Highly recommend for thriller lovers who enjoy books that stir up emotion deep within them.
October 10, 2022
I loved this book. Not normally into a lot of paranormal books but I loved this one. So many unexpected twists and discoveries, kept me on the edge of my seat dying to find out what happens next. The story and characters are so compelling and it draws you in. Makes you feel like you are experiencing what they are feeling or going through. Definately read!!
October 15, 2022
I really enjoyed this paranormal thriller. There was so much in this book. The storyline was really well written and I found it difficult to put down. The characters were really interesting and written with a certain depth. There are dark elements and a storyline which focuses on finding oneself and dealing with family, grief, and trauma.
Rating: 4/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 4/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
April 9, 2024
La Devoradora!
This book had me, emotionally entangled. The Author LaShane brings you into the world of Sadie Reed, a young woman discovering her psychic abilities. An empath, able to take pain away from some people, but all powers come with a price when becoming the pain eater takes a toll on her spiritual self, as she is unable to control it. As she learns how to manage her growing abilities, she is also learning how to manage her love and social life. After losing her mother to deep darkness shes unable to understand, she searches for her father, who became oddly distant from her since her mothers disappearance, only pushing Sadie to dig deeper into finding out who she is and what her purpose is, only to discover, this is only the beginning of her new life.
I loved this book, from beginning to end. It was filled with so much emotional turmoil, laughs, and scary moments some of us only experience in dreams. I feel in love with Sadie and her “best friend,” Adrian. I absolutely adored Adrians character, and his whole vibe. And admired Sadies strength in overcoming every situation that was presented to her. The author did such an amazing job in describing each scene. It makes you feel like you are there, with Sadie as she navigates through the darkness of and blessing of what is her life.
This book had me, emotionally entangled. The Author LaShane brings you into the world of Sadie Reed, a young woman discovering her psychic abilities. An empath, able to take pain away from some people, but all powers come with a price when becoming the pain eater takes a toll on her spiritual self, as she is unable to control it. As she learns how to manage her growing abilities, she is also learning how to manage her love and social life. After losing her mother to deep darkness shes unable to understand, she searches for her father, who became oddly distant from her since her mothers disappearance, only pushing Sadie to dig deeper into finding out who she is and what her purpose is, only to discover, this is only the beginning of her new life.
I loved this book, from beginning to end. It was filled with so much emotional turmoil, laughs, and scary moments some of us only experience in dreams. I feel in love with Sadie and her “best friend,” Adrian. I absolutely adored Adrians character, and his whole vibe. And admired Sadies strength in overcoming every situation that was presented to her. The author did such an amazing job in describing each scene. It makes you feel like you are there, with Sadie as she navigates through the darkness of and blessing of what is her life.
May 25, 2023
《3.5☆》
This was a lot to process. There is a lot going on, and it's nonstop from the beginning. This is a supernatural thriller with a heavy emphasis on grief. Sadie goes through a lot in her lifetime and learns a lot about herself and her family.
My biggest take from this is about grief and the grieving process. There's a lot of heavy things in this story, and I feel like it was a little overwhelming. I did really enjoy how diverse and interesting the characters were.
This was a lot to process. There is a lot going on, and it's nonstop from the beginning. This is a supernatural thriller with a heavy emphasis on grief. Sadie goes through a lot in her lifetime and learns a lot about herself and her family.
My biggest take from this is about grief and the grieving process. There's a lot of heavy things in this story, and I feel like it was a little overwhelming. I did really enjoy how diverse and interesting the characters were.
January 13, 2021
An immersive read. The kind where you look up and ask, “Where’s the time gone?”
Love it!
July 15, 2024
Its about a young woman named Sadie Reed who discovers that she is a psychic and as she is coming into her own power while navigating life, she relaxes that there are other sinister forces at play that dwell closer than she thinks.
I really enjoyed the her writing in this novel. Sadie’s story felt so personal to me; I was captivated by her as a character and her journey of discovering who she is as well as the people she meets along the way. The slice of life elements were nice breaks in between but the I got chills whenever she encountered visions dealing with the big bad. I definitely recommend this if anyone who loves paranormal thrillers with some horror and romance elements.
I can’t wait to get my hands on the sequel “The Magic Man.”
I really enjoyed the her writing in this novel. Sadie’s story felt so personal to me; I was captivated by her as a character and her journey of discovering who she is as well as the people she meets along the way. The slice of life elements were nice breaks in between but the I got chills whenever she encountered visions dealing with the big bad. I definitely recommend this if anyone who loves paranormal thrillers with some horror and romance elements.
I can’t wait to get my hands on the sequel “The Magic Man.”
December 20, 2022
From the opening section, 'The Field' I was captivated. The dream-like, more like nightmare-like prose left me in awe. Sadie doesn't know what happened to her mother, but in her dream something dark and shadowy always snatches her away.
Now Sadie is an adult and finding out about a special gift she has. Her childhood friend, Adrian, is still by her side and she begins to question if she is falling in love. There is so much going on for this novel! Lashane's dialogue is witty and definitely fun to read. Combine that with the escalating dark forces pressing in on Sadie more and more and you get something magnetic.
When she meets Angel, a psychic medium who shows her how to hone her gifts without overly draining her energies, things really speed up for her and it's on to figure things out that have haunted her for too long.
I also really loved the character descriptions and abilities of a specific group that Sadie runs into. Working together with different powers sets her on the right course.
The ending left me a bit down moodwise, but I didn't dislike it by any means. Sadie is a strong, resilient woman, and I hope there will be more of her and maybe picking up where this book leaves off. Either way, I highly recommend this! This author is a super talented story teller.
Now Sadie is an adult and finding out about a special gift she has. Her childhood friend, Adrian, is still by her side and she begins to question if she is falling in love. There is so much going on for this novel! Lashane's dialogue is witty and definitely fun to read. Combine that with the escalating dark forces pressing in on Sadie more and more and you get something magnetic.
When she meets Angel, a psychic medium who shows her how to hone her gifts without overly draining her energies, things really speed up for her and it's on to figure things out that have haunted her for too long.
I also really loved the character descriptions and abilities of a specific group that Sadie runs into. Working together with different powers sets her on the right course.
The ending left me a bit down moodwise, but I didn't dislike it by any means. Sadie is a strong, resilient woman, and I hope there will be more of her and maybe picking up where this book leaves off. Either way, I highly recommend this! This author is a super talented story teller.
January 3, 2022
Sadie has lost her mom young. Her father had distanced himself from Sadie, preoccupied with his own grief.
As Sadie ventures into the paranormal she realizes that many of her stories she dismissed have proved true. She is gifted. She is powerful, even if she is untrained.
Angel Ryder, another psychic, helps train Sadie in exchange for cleaning her house and helping with her business. Sadie is eager to learn and Angel is happy to teach her, a daughter she never had, who arrived at the dusk of Angel’s life.
Angel tells Sadie that her path was laid out, but her mother’s death changed Sadie’s course. Her father’s grief tainted Sadie-a reason she is a magnet for the damaged and impaired. But Sadie shouldn’t be angry with her father-he is on his own mission.
Unfortunately, Angel dies and Sadie starts seeing and feeling strange things. Sadie experienced a reawakening.
Then Sadie sees a ghost for the first time and it's only the beginning.
I loved reading this book! The writing was beautiful and so easy to fall into. Sadie is a great character and fun to follow! The story was mysterious and intriguing, with romance thrown into the mix.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone who likes to read paranormal stories!
As Sadie ventures into the paranormal she realizes that many of her stories she dismissed have proved true. She is gifted. She is powerful, even if she is untrained.
Angel Ryder, another psychic, helps train Sadie in exchange for cleaning her house and helping with her business. Sadie is eager to learn and Angel is happy to teach her, a daughter she never had, who arrived at the dusk of Angel’s life.
Angel tells Sadie that her path was laid out, but her mother’s death changed Sadie’s course. Her father’s grief tainted Sadie-a reason she is a magnet for the damaged and impaired. But Sadie shouldn’t be angry with her father-he is on his own mission.
Unfortunately, Angel dies and Sadie starts seeing and feeling strange things. Sadie experienced a reawakening.
Then Sadie sees a ghost for the first time and it's only the beginning.
I loved reading this book! The writing was beautiful and so easy to fall into. Sadie is a great character and fun to follow! The story was mysterious and intriguing, with romance thrown into the mix.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone who likes to read paranormal stories!
July 29, 2023
A paranormal thriller…not a genre I gravitate toward but I’m so glad I picked this one up. We meet Sadie after she finally accepts that she is psychic, an empath who can read people’s minds and so much more. She has spent most of her life mourning the death of her mother and yearning for her father to love her again. I just want to give this girl a hug!
I loved all the characters in this story. LaShane does a brilliant job bringing them to life, giving them their own voice, and making them feel like real people. Adrian is such a goofball I couldn’t help but love him and his childish humor. And Sadie couldn’t have grown as a character without him being there for her. He is her rock.
The story mainly focuses on Sadie learning how to use and control her powers. Meeting others like her. Opening up her mind. Seeing the world in a different way. Throughout her journey, there is an underlining plot that was waiting to explode. And when it finally hit, I wanted more. I cannot wait for the next book!
❗ SPOILER ❗ One of the reasons I don’t tend to read paranormal thrillers is that I’m easily spooked. And man did I get spooked when a shadow or ghost was just hovering in front of Sadie’s closet. Took me a while to go to sleep that night.
I loved all the characters in this story. LaShane does a brilliant job bringing them to life, giving them their own voice, and making them feel like real people. Adrian is such a goofball I couldn’t help but love him and his childish humor. And Sadie couldn’t have grown as a character without him being there for her. He is her rock.
The story mainly focuses on Sadie learning how to use and control her powers. Meeting others like her. Opening up her mind. Seeing the world in a different way. Throughout her journey, there is an underlining plot that was waiting to explode. And when it finally hit, I wanted more. I cannot wait for the next book!
❗ SPOILER ❗ One of the reasons I don’t tend to read paranormal thrillers is that I’m easily spooked. And man did I get spooked when a shadow or ghost was just hovering in front of Sadie’s closet. Took me a while to go to sleep that night.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 23, 2023
Unique & Emotional!
First, I grew up reading Dean Koontz stories and this paranormal thriller was just what I needed. Sadie’s life is an emotional and gripping tale of self-discovery of psychic powers. The story gracefully tells of Sadie’s childhood struggles, loss of her mother, and growing affection for her childhood friend. I enjoyed reading how Sadie grows into her gifts, learns to accept what has been bestowed upon her, and finds love along the way. What I truly enjoyed was the friendships that developed over the story, and learning what people will do to save others. The story has great diversity representation, something needed in this genre. I also enjoyed the poetic introductions to each chapter heading. Great story if you enjoy reading paranormal mysteries with very dark twists and turns. I’m looking forward to reading the next book.
First, I grew up reading Dean Koontz stories and this paranormal thriller was just what I needed. Sadie’s life is an emotional and gripping tale of self-discovery of psychic powers. The story gracefully tells of Sadie’s childhood struggles, loss of her mother, and growing affection for her childhood friend. I enjoyed reading how Sadie grows into her gifts, learns to accept what has been bestowed upon her, and finds love along the way. What I truly enjoyed was the friendships that developed over the story, and learning what people will do to save others. The story has great diversity representation, something needed in this genre. I also enjoyed the poetic introductions to each chapter heading. Great story if you enjoy reading paranormal mysteries with very dark twists and turns. I’m looking forward to reading the next book.
December 24, 2025
LaShane Arnett has the most peculiar ability to turn what would typically be mundane circumstances in other novels into some of the most interesting scenes.
Comparatively, Boulley's The Firekeeper's Daughter has similar coming of age themes and use of language, but Arnett's ability to wrap those themes into a paranormal thriller really makes The Pain Eater an exciting book to read.
After the first few chapters, I was wary about the development of Sadie's character and my ability to stay interested in her, but through an enviable twist of compelling language and characters, I found myself totally consumed by The Pain Eater.
Once I hit the first chapter about Maxine Powell, I was shocked and impressed by the sudden intensity and dark twist. Though, the most interesting part was not LaShane's ability to write really interesting and disturbing scenes, it was the way she turned things like a celebration of life into brilliant displays of twisted and interesting characters.
Her use of dialogue and introspection made the tough topics of death and grief feel natural and easily consumable without being bogged by existential spirals that tend to drown characters and their stories.
I recommend this story to anyone interested in the paranormal, psychics, ghosts, clairvoyance, and explorations of death, grief, and trauma.
Comparatively, Boulley's The Firekeeper's Daughter has similar coming of age themes and use of language, but Arnett's ability to wrap those themes into a paranormal thriller really makes The Pain Eater an exciting book to read.
After the first few chapters, I was wary about the development of Sadie's character and my ability to stay interested in her, but through an enviable twist of compelling language and characters, I found myself totally consumed by The Pain Eater.
Once I hit the first chapter about Maxine Powell, I was shocked and impressed by the sudden intensity and dark twist. Though, the most interesting part was not LaShane's ability to write really interesting and disturbing scenes, it was the way she turned things like a celebration of life into brilliant displays of twisted and interesting characters.
Her use of dialogue and introspection made the tough topics of death and grief feel natural and easily consumable without being bogged by existential spirals that tend to drown characters and their stories.
I recommend this story to anyone interested in the paranormal, psychics, ghosts, clairvoyance, and explorations of death, grief, and trauma.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 16, 2023
"I was hopeful Angel was all-knowing and had a Psychic handbook or something that could guide me and explain the etiquettes of being a Psychic, if there was such a thing."
🔮
This book was beautiful, sad, emotional and truly thrilling. I couldn't stop reading it and when I had to, I was looking forward to continuing it.
It's a supernatural thriller/mystery with sweet and kind main character Sadie who has psychic powers and when she learns about them, she wants to do everything to help those people she's seeing. Her best friend is the best sidekick a psychic could wish for, he helps her figure out her visions, even if he doesn't always understand what's going on around them.
And Angel! I loved her! She sometimes reminded me of my grandma and I was so emotional during most of her scenes.
There's always more to say, but I don't like giving out too much info about the book.
Paranormal story with murder mystery and lots of different characters with interesting powers and maybe even little bit of freakshow somewhere in there.
Not everyone is all kindness and sunshine, there's darkness and terrible creatures in every corner, and the end definitely makes you scared and also anticipate the second book The Magic Man.
I will be reading that next and posting about it next week.
🔮
This book was beautiful, sad, emotional and truly thrilling. I couldn't stop reading it and when I had to, I was looking forward to continuing it.
It's a supernatural thriller/mystery with sweet and kind main character Sadie who has psychic powers and when she learns about them, she wants to do everything to help those people she's seeing. Her best friend is the best sidekick a psychic could wish for, he helps her figure out her visions, even if he doesn't always understand what's going on around them.
And Angel! I loved her! She sometimes reminded me of my grandma and I was so emotional during most of her scenes.
There's always more to say, but I don't like giving out too much info about the book.
Paranormal story with murder mystery and lots of different characters with interesting powers and maybe even little bit of freakshow somewhere in there.
Not everyone is all kindness and sunshine, there's darkness and terrible creatures in every corner, and the end definitely makes you scared and also anticipate the second book The Magic Man.
I will be reading that next and posting about it next week.
November 21, 2025
I have to say The Pain Eater was a great surprise. I’m never sure how a story will turn out when it comes to powers and how things play out.
LaShane Arnett did it in such a well written way that you feel for Sadie and even Adrian. The story start giving you an impactful taste of loss that hurts not only Sadie but leaves her Dad as an emotional void… this is all before the story really starts.
As things unravel Sadie experiences grief along with tastes of happiness and even romance of a sorts when things happen as she discovers each new power.
The way she dives into her MC’s mind, lets you feel her emotions which only boosts the story to the next level.
I bought book one and book two at the same time so I look forward to getting into the next one when time permits.
So to wrap it up, it’s sort of a coming of age, romantic tale of love and loss that shows just how strong a person can be when they need to… This author has a great voice for a debut novel and I look forward to enjoying more…
LaShane Arnett did it in such a well written way that you feel for Sadie and even Adrian. The story start giving you an impactful taste of loss that hurts not only Sadie but leaves her Dad as an emotional void… this is all before the story really starts.
As things unravel Sadie experiences grief along with tastes of happiness and even romance of a sorts when things happen as she discovers each new power.
The way she dives into her MC’s mind, lets you feel her emotions which only boosts the story to the next level.
I bought book one and book two at the same time so I look forward to getting into the next one when time permits.
So to wrap it up, it’s sort of a coming of age, romantic tale of love and loss that shows just how strong a person can be when they need to… This author has a great voice for a debut novel and I look forward to enjoying more…
September 22, 2022
A great mystery, supernatural paranormal thriller as Sadie's life turns a 180. Naturally "gifted" Sadie befriends Angel, a powerful psychic whom became a friend and mentoring Sadie. In her visions, she sees the abducted woman's unfortunate demise; feeling every emotion, pain, terror, fear and last thoughts (your heart breaks constantly with the victim's backstory.) It leaves you wanting for more and it's just the beginning for Sadie's journey.
This story is about acceptance, love, family connections mixed with intrigue, secrets and dark elements. Sadie is never goes through it alone; by her side bestie Adrian who knows her abilities. Ms. Arnett's vivid and beautiful story telling connects with the readers with good laughs, frightening scenes and embodying a true supernatural story.
This story is about acceptance, love, family connections mixed with intrigue, secrets and dark elements. Sadie is never goes through it alone; by her side bestie Adrian who knows her abilities. Ms. Arnett's vivid and beautiful story telling connects with the readers with good laughs, frightening scenes and embodying a true supernatural story.
August 13, 2023
Lashane has crafted a phenomenal thriller. Her writing is absolutely marvelous and the way she transitioned between Sadie’s visions was flawless. Of the many highlights in the story, I have to mention that I loved the characters. Adrian caused me to question his choices and there is a scene that caused me to call him a choice word or two. No spoilers on this but you either know what I’m talking about or you’ll read about it soon enough. Once again no spoilers, but there was a bomb dropped that caused me to go back and reread to see if I missed something. This is by no means a negative. To me, the setup was so perfect that I had to see if there was a giveaway or hint that I missed. Though Adrian is a great character and you’re sure to like him, Sadie and her abilities are going to get you hooked on the series. I’m looking forward to continuing with The Magic Man.
April 17, 2023
🦋🦋 If the cover alone for The Pain Eater doesn't convince you to read it, I hope this review will! This was a very special read for me, a paranormal, coming into power, healing experience for the FMC! 🦋🦋
🦋 Title: The Pain Eater
🦋 Author: @lashanewrites (make sure to check out her wonderful poetry too!)
🦋 Release: Available now!
🦋 Genre: Paranormal Thriller
🦋 Series: Yes, book 1 in the Sadie Reed Series
{🦋 Rating: ⛤⛤⛤⛤⛤}
This book follows Sadie Reed, a twenty something who feels lost in the world. Her mom is dead, her dad has disappeared into himself, and she's always had these weird tendencies to know what's going to happen before they do. Her best friend since forever is Adrian. He's funny, smart, and is the one constant thats always been by Sadie's side. When she has her spiritual & power awakening, he is the first one she goes to.
Her awakening brings about visions of blood, pain, missing women, and murder. With these powerful visions, she gets trapped in these Psyche holds. So her and Adrian decide to seek out a psychics help. Sadie feels pulled to Angel, an old, powerful psychic who knows more than she lets on.
And guys, from the point they meet Angel, the twists and turns DO NOT STOP! I don't want to give any spoilers away, but there are dark spirits, lies unveiled, secrets kept that come to the surface, loss, love and found family. It was extremely hard to put down, and I hope you love it as much as I do, if you pick it up, which you definitely should! 😂
🦋 Title: The Pain Eater
🦋 Author: @lashanewrites (make sure to check out her wonderful poetry too!)
🦋 Release: Available now!
🦋 Genre: Paranormal Thriller
🦋 Series: Yes, book 1 in the Sadie Reed Series
{🦋 Rating: ⛤⛤⛤⛤⛤}
This book follows Sadie Reed, a twenty something who feels lost in the world. Her mom is dead, her dad has disappeared into himself, and she's always had these weird tendencies to know what's going to happen before they do. Her best friend since forever is Adrian. He's funny, smart, and is the one constant thats always been by Sadie's side. When she has her spiritual & power awakening, he is the first one she goes to.
Her awakening brings about visions of blood, pain, missing women, and murder. With these powerful visions, she gets trapped in these Psyche holds. So her and Adrian decide to seek out a psychics help. Sadie feels pulled to Angel, an old, powerful psychic who knows more than she lets on.
And guys, from the point they meet Angel, the twists and turns DO NOT STOP! I don't want to give any spoilers away, but there are dark spirits, lies unveiled, secrets kept that come to the surface, loss, love and found family. It was extremely hard to put down, and I hope you love it as much as I do, if you pick it up, which you definitely should! 😂
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews