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They Call Me Teddy:
I've seen too much death and pain for the short twenty-one years I've been alive. Any memories of my early years have been snuffed out by the depravity of the last almost two decades, and here I stand at the end of it all with nothing left.
Coming to hell was an accident, at least in my case. Most people who end up here are brought here for Her. Then again, most people who end up here didn't last nearly as long as I have.
Here I am though at the end of it all and honestly? I envy the dead, for they remember nothing.
'They Call Me Teddy', a dark, enemies to lovers romance featuring young Branson and Amelia, two youths who are taken in and raised by a psychopath artist with a penchant for creating art with human flesh.
This is an erotic horror love story, not a romance. You will find depravity, abuse and death within these pages and this is not for the faint of heart. You have been warned
Coming to hell was an accident, at least in my case. Most people who end up here are brought here for Her. Then again, most people who end up here didn't last nearly as long as I have.
Here I am though at the end of it all and honestly? I envy the dead, for they remember nothing.
'They Call Me Teddy', a dark, enemies to lovers romance featuring young Branson and Amelia, two youths who are taken in and raised by a psychopath artist with a penchant for creating art with human flesh.
This is an erotic horror love story, not a romance. You will find depravity, abuse and death within these pages and this is not for the faint of heart. You have been warned
335 pages, Paperback
First published November 30, 2020
67 people are currently reading
461 people want to read
About the author
Ella Burns
19 books147 followersElla Burns is the offspring of a fairy queen and an undead warlord and was brought up with an appetite for terror and beauty.
A Canadian author, she would like nothing more than to abscond to the remote wilderness of British Columbia with her daughter and a Kindle full of dark reads. Since she was a child she dreamed of being an author and now writes a variety of darkness across several genres. Despite her love of the macabre, she will always have a soft spot for fuzzy things and a cuppa tea.
A Canadian author, she would like nothing more than to abscond to the remote wilderness of British Columbia with her daughter and a Kindle full of dark reads. Since she was a child she dreamed of being an author and now writes a variety of darkness across several genres. Despite her love of the macabre, she will always have a soft spot for fuzzy things and a cuppa tea.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 101 reviews
December 24, 2024
This book had such a grip on me! I haven't read much horror romance/ dark romance but this is my first book where the "evil person" was a woman and where the woman love interest turned out to be almost as psychotic. When I was about half way through or such I liked it but doubted highly it would be a couple I would root for but damn was I wrong. It was dark, twisted and not at all a healthy relationship but I so bought the love. My first book by Ella Burns but far from my last
December 10, 2020
3.5 ⭐
This is a dark not romance book.. the author did say it was a erotic horror love story, not a romance. Anyways the triggers are below if you wanna read this book.
Branson had a fucjed up life.. he was taken at age 6 and was abused by his kidnapper Jane who enjoys bloody artwork with humans. He never enjoyed it but if he didnt listen he would be punished but he was always punished poor Branson... And then he meets Amelia years later shes another victim Jane stole. But Jane was turning Amelia like herself and naming her Teddy more crazy and psycho and she enjoyed the kill.. think of Baby from House of 1000 corpse but more sexual with one person aka Branson.
Branson and teddy relationship was rocky since the more fucked up Teddy became she did abuse Branson. Until he finally snapped when his doll was in trouble. and I wish he did that sooner. He was better when he snapped.. didn't take Amelia/Teddys shit and their steam was very yummy... now it's them against the world.. I wish he snapped awhile ago because he felt more dom when he took out some ppls.
The ending... I kinda felt sad... I wont give it away but dang i have mixed feelings about it.
Angst, Drama, sexy times, both virgins
Recommend- maybe
Cover-⭐⭐⭐⭐
Slow burn
Torture
Mental and physical abuse
Bdsm
Violence
Knife play
Anal play/sex
Murder/death
Punishment
Mentioned of suicide
Almost Sexual assault (h almost got raped she plays with her victims but never fucked them)
This is a dark not romance book.. the author did say it was a erotic horror love story, not a romance. Anyways the triggers are below if you wanna read this book.
Branson had a fucjed up life.. he was taken at age 6 and was abused by his kidnapper Jane who enjoys bloody artwork with humans. He never enjoyed it but if he didnt listen he would be punished but he was always punished poor Branson... And then he meets Amelia years later shes another victim Jane stole. But Jane was turning Amelia like herself and naming her Teddy more crazy and psycho and she enjoyed the kill.. think of Baby from House of 1000 corpse but more sexual with one person aka Branson.
Branson and teddy relationship was rocky since the more fucked up Teddy became she did abuse Branson. Until he finally snapped when his doll was in trouble. and I wish he did that sooner. He was better when he snapped.. didn't take Amelia/Teddys shit and their steam was very yummy... now it's them against the world.. I wish he snapped awhile ago because he felt more dom when he took out some ppls.
The ending... I kinda felt sad... I wont give it away but dang i have mixed feelings about it.
Angst, Drama, sexy times, both virgins
Recommend- maybe
Cover-⭐⭐⭐⭐
Slow burn
Torture
Mental and physical abuse
Bdsm
Violence
Knife play
Anal play/sex
Murder/death
Punishment
Mentioned of suicide
Almost Sexual assault (h almost got raped she plays with her victims but never fucked them)
January 19, 2021
”In hell, innocence is a curse, not a blessing. And I won’t be the reason for her curse.”
If you like your dark books dark, not fade black, not gray or gritty but DARK, you will love this one! From page 1, I was on the edge of my seat, enthralled by the depraved, sick, disturbing characters and the vulnerable, tormented ones. This book is not for the squeamish as torture is describe in explicit detail, plus there is child abuse. But like I said, if you love your books on the dark side, you’ll be thrilled by this twisted, innovative story!!
Although this book is very, very well written and flows impeccably, there were a few things that a proofreader should have caught. *** If you aren’t Ms. Burns or curious about my critical eye, I’d stop reading here***
There were mistakes such as using MIGHT instead of MAY, FURTHER when it should have been FARTHER, TINY instead of TIDY, TICK for TIC, and HANDS when it should’ve been HANGS (“My own mouth hands open”). The Chicago Manual of Style rules for spacing ellipses weren’t l followed, plus they fluctuated between being 3 or 4 dots. Regarding commas, they weren’t always used between adjectives, the FANBOYS rule was only followed some of the time and rules for commas and the word OH we’re not followed (for example, “Oh goody” should have been “Oh, goody”). Words were capitalized and the wrong punctuation used in some of the dialogue (for example, [“It’s amazing!” She exclaims,] should be, [“It’s amazing!” she exclaims,]. Fortunately, all of these are things most readers won’t even notice, are super easy to fix (I’d love to proofread/edit for you, Ella 😉) and didn’t affect my enjoyment of the book in any way, therefore they did not impact my rating or how excited I am to read more by this author!!
If you like your dark books dark, not fade black, not gray or gritty but DARK, you will love this one! From page 1, I was on the edge of my seat, enthralled by the depraved, sick, disturbing characters and the vulnerable, tormented ones. This book is not for the squeamish as torture is describe in explicit detail, plus there is child abuse. But like I said, if you love your books on the dark side, you’ll be thrilled by this twisted, innovative story!!
Although this book is very, very well written and flows impeccably, there were a few things that a proofreader should have caught. *** If you aren’t Ms. Burns or curious about my critical eye, I’d stop reading here***
There were mistakes such as using MIGHT instead of MAY, FURTHER when it should have been FARTHER, TINY instead of TIDY, TICK for TIC, and HANDS when it should’ve been HANGS (“My own mouth hands open”). The Chicago Manual of Style rules for spacing ellipses weren’t l followed, plus they fluctuated between being 3 or 4 dots. Regarding commas, they weren’t always used between adjectives, the FANBOYS rule was only followed some of the time and rules for commas and the word OH we’re not followed (for example, “Oh goody” should have been “Oh, goody”). Words were capitalized and the wrong punctuation used in some of the dialogue (for example, [“It’s amazing!” She exclaims,] should be, [“It’s amazing!” she exclaims,]. Fortunately, all of these are things most readers won’t even notice, are super easy to fix (I’d love to proofread/edit for you, Ella 😉) and didn’t affect my enjoyment of the book in any way, therefore they did not impact my rating or how excited I am to read more by this author!!
November 19, 2020
Ella Burns claims this is not a romance. I totally disagree. It's one of the most romantic stories I've ever read.... BUT oh yeah, it is a super dark romance ( the kind of stuff I love). When you take two children who have been abducted and molded into some form of a monster, it's not so surprising that they would share some sort of a bond. Teddy is the obvious kind of monster, blood thirsty and eager to kill. Branson is the worst kind of monster, a human suppressed of all emotion for the majority of his life, so that when he finally realized who he is, he's barely human, eager to hang on to the only person he had ever felt any kind of emotion for. Meaning he would do anything and everything to please her, even if he does think he can control her. I love the balance of control and consent, but also allowing someone to stretch you into your darkest depths, but all the while allowing it to happen, despite them thinking they're forcing it upon you. Yep, that even confused me,but it makes sense if you read this book. Which you should.
January 16, 2022
The fact that every new part of this erotic horror novel begins with a Shakespeare quote 😌🤚🏼
Minor spoilers
Imagine being tortured for 7 years, and when its time for payback you decide to give her some good ol' spanking and an orgasm 🤡
After being a captive for 15 years, Branson is free and starts by getting instructions on how to go into a drugstore and buy things. You know, starting small. Dude's a fast learner bc in a day or two he's already achieved:
🤡 sex. In all different forms.
🤡 researched quickly to find a d&m club (without having a phone. or knowledge of google.)
🤡 been at the doctor's office, with a fake ID teddy gave him. maybe she just had it laying around.
🤡 being chased by the cops, because he loves the girl who tortured him so much that he'll do anything for her.
60 % torture, murder, and abuse
20 % bdsm-ish smut
20 % jane and teddy laughing maniacally
Minor spoilers
Imagine being tortured for 7 years, and when its time for payback you decide to give her some good ol' spanking and an orgasm 🤡
After being a captive for 15 years, Branson is free and starts by getting instructions on how to go into a drugstore and buy things. You know, starting small. Dude's a fast learner bc in a day or two he's already achieved:
🤡 sex. In all different forms.
🤡 researched quickly to find a d&m club (without having a phone. or knowledge of google.)
🤡 been at the doctor's office, with a fake ID teddy gave him. maybe she just had it laying around.
🤡 being chased by the cops, because he loves the girl who tortured him so much that he'll do anything for her.
60 % torture, murder, and abuse
20 % bdsm-ish smut
20 % jane and teddy laughing maniacally
July 5, 2021
This is a horrific story told in the first person narrative between the 2 main characters Branson and Amelia (Teddy) alternatively. The story starts out as extreme horror, then becomes an errotic love story born out of extreme oppression and sadistic pleasures. I've read a few novels by Ella Burns and am super impressed with how she weaves a story. Always eloquently written, and with characters you care about, I highly recommend you seek out her work. I was surprised by the ending, but I have to say, that it was a perfect ending considering the characters and the story line. I really loved this story, it was very dark and sad but also heartbreakingly beautiful.
December 1, 2020
I didn't realize this was the same author who wrote The Tomb series before I decided to pick this one up. That should've alerted me to what I'm about to read.
With that said, I had a different idea to what this book would be and surprisingly this book didn't held up. It wasn't as truly gory as any of Yolanda Olson or Emery LeeAnn's crazy works; or as strangely addictive as R.I.P.. It was an okay book. At least you still have someone to root for in this one. Kinda.
Branson was just... okay. Teddy was a fuck up. But Branson... the weakest link in this book for me. For a torture porn book, it was nicely done.
With that said, I had a different idea to what this book would be and surprisingly this book didn't held up. It wasn't as truly gory as any of Yolanda Olson or Emery LeeAnn's crazy works; or as strangely addictive as R.I.P.. It was an okay book. At least you still have someone to root for in this one. Kinda.
Branson was just... okay. Teddy was a fuck up. But Branson... the weakest link in this book for me. For a torture porn book, it was nicely done.
January 29, 2021
Emotional rollercoaster 😢
This book killed me. I went through all the emotions one can go through reading this type of book. From horror to hate to sympathy and then lastly sadness.
Branson was a sweet but tortured soul and I just wanted to rescue him from his horrors. Teddy was the complete opposite, she was psychotic and far past the point of help. This story was hard to read and mostly made me cringe throughout it, but I also couldn’t pry myself away from the pages. I had a morbid fascination to know what happened next and how it was all going to end.
Let me tell you, that ending made me cry! 🥺 I’m talking real tears, but I can see why it had to happen that way and I’m glad they got their happy ending (of sorts).
Worth a read if you have no triggers & worth the 5 stars 🌟
This book killed me. I went through all the emotions one can go through reading this type of book. From horror to hate to sympathy and then lastly sadness.
Branson was a sweet but tortured soul and I just wanted to rescue him from his horrors. Teddy was the complete opposite, she was psychotic and far past the point of help. This story was hard to read and mostly made me cringe throughout it, but I also couldn’t pry myself away from the pages. I had a morbid fascination to know what happened next and how it was all going to end.
Let me tell you, that ending made me cry! 🥺 I’m talking real tears, but I can see why it had to happen that way and I’m glad they got their happy ending (of sorts).
Worth a read if you have no triggers & worth the 5 stars 🌟
December 18, 2020
Well now, let's call her Teddy.
The stepping stones. Brought on young. See reality as it is. The melancholy of life, day by day. A new spark introduced. Amelia, Mia ... let's call her Teddy. Melancholy with a pinch of sunshine drenched in blood.
Love. What can it be? What shall it be? You and me.
What is and what it's supposed to be.
She took you away. Away from me. But my heart always was yours, couldn't you see?
Cracks and fissures. Lost and found. When you stumbled upon me again, were you the one that was once with me? Excitement and anticipation. Doused flames and retaliation. Broken and shell of what once was.
Is this what you wanted me to be? Because I'd do it for you. Scars of our past, scars for what could have been.
Are you lost too? Boredom because you couldn't see what we could be.
The lies we drown in. The lies we were taught. Enticed by flickers of understanding. Knowledge is power.
Power play.
You play.
We play.
Childhood love. Brought to light and now you see. You see me.
_____________________
Beyond the climax of the story I found a steady downhill fall. Stumbling like a downwards spiral. The snowball growing to meet its end. The end being a catastrophe. A beautiful catastrophe.
Was it worth it in the end? You tell me.
____________________
And Branson? Branson excites me.
____________________
Me too, Teddy ... me too.
____________________
After all, broken people are the best kind.
____________________
*4.5 stars*
*disclaimer: written while drunk *
The stepping stones. Brought on young. See reality as it is. The melancholy of life, day by day. A new spark introduced. Amelia, Mia ... let's call her Teddy. Melancholy with a pinch of sunshine drenched in blood.
Love. What can it be? What shall it be? You and me.
What is and what it's supposed to be.
She took you away. Away from me. But my heart always was yours, couldn't you see?
Cracks and fissures. Lost and found. When you stumbled upon me again, were you the one that was once with me? Excitement and anticipation. Doused flames and retaliation. Broken and shell of what once was.
Is this what you wanted me to be? Because I'd do it for you. Scars of our past, scars for what could have been.
Are you lost too? Boredom because you couldn't see what we could be.
The lies we drown in. The lies we were taught. Enticed by flickers of understanding. Knowledge is power.
Power play.
You play.
We play.
Childhood love. Brought to light and now you see. You see me.
_____________________
Beyond the climax of the story I found a steady downhill fall. Stumbling like a downwards spiral. The snowball growing to meet its end. The end being a catastrophe. A beautiful catastrophe.
Was it worth it in the end? You tell me.
____________________
And Branson? Branson excites me.
____________________
Me too, Teddy ... me too.
____________________
After all, broken people are the best kind.
____________________
*4.5 stars*
*disclaimer: written while drunk *
November 21, 2020
I really loved this story!
I knew I would just by the cover alone. This author is a new one to me but I will definitely WITHOUT A DOUBT be reading more in the future.
It was said this book is not quite horror and not quite romance. It was really the perfect mix of both!
From start to finish I felt for my poor boy Branson. He was so tormented inside, having to live day in and day out for YEARS being abused and mistreated until one day he just snaps. And what a freaking glorious SNAP it was!
Thank God for Teddy/Amelia being there. She was fantastic. I was obsessed with her crazy from the get go. I absolutely LOVED the power change when Branson finally decided he was no longer a pet.
And that ending. I will not even speak on it. Nope. 5 stars for this modern day Bonnie and Clyde couple (ok, less Bonnie and more Baby from House of 1000 Corpses)
I knew I would just by the cover alone. This author is a new one to me but I will definitely WITHOUT A DOUBT be reading more in the future.
It was said this book is not quite horror and not quite romance. It was really the perfect mix of both!
From start to finish I felt for my poor boy Branson. He was so tormented inside, having to live day in and day out for YEARS being abused and mistreated until one day he just snaps. And what a freaking glorious SNAP it was!
Thank God for Teddy/Amelia being there. She was fantastic. I was obsessed with her crazy from the get go. I absolutely LOVED the power change when Branson finally decided he was no longer a pet.
And that ending. I will not even speak on it. Nope. 5 stars for this modern day Bonnie and Clyde couple (ok, less Bonnie and more Baby from House of 1000 Corpses)
February 5, 2022
HOLY.....
I dont normally write reviews anymore, but this book.. This book was literally a entire rollercoaster of emotions. Frankly i almost didn't finish this book i absolutely hated it up until the second part, Teddy was a brat and horrible. Branson he was, just so broken and sad. Warnings! This book is DARK triggers EVERYWHERE but that second part holy testicle tuesday. This book id give so many more than 5 stars and two thumbs up if i could. The ending... HEARTBREAKING but bloody BRILLIANT... normally im all pissy but. That.... *chefs kiss*
I dont normally write reviews anymore, but this book.. This book was literally a entire rollercoaster of emotions. Frankly i almost didn't finish this book i absolutely hated it up until the second part, Teddy was a brat and horrible. Branson he was, just so broken and sad. Warnings! This book is DARK triggers EVERYWHERE but that second part holy testicle tuesday. This book id give so many more than 5 stars and two thumbs up if i could. The ending... HEARTBREAKING but bloody BRILLIANT... normally im all pissy but. That.... *chefs kiss*
July 19, 2021
Poor Branson
Well this was certainly interesting and different. 3.5 stars. I found myself skimming every now and then. Not sure horror romance is for me, which is odd because I usually like the weird, different, taboo, dark etc side of romance. Maybe I’ll try again someday. If horror romance is your thing, I’m sure you’ll find this enjoyable.
Well this was certainly interesting and different. 3.5 stars. I found myself skimming every now and then. Not sure horror romance is for me, which is odd because I usually like the weird, different, taboo, dark etc side of romance. Maybe I’ll try again someday. If horror romance is your thing, I’m sure you’ll find this enjoyable.
November 12, 2020
Teddy...that wasn’t always her name. He knew her as Amelia. Sweet little Amelia that could do no wrong...until Jane finally sunk her claws into her and turned her into Teddy for good.
A dark twisted romance through and through. The story of Branson, Teddy, Jane, and Bud. It was nothing like I imagined but more than I ever could have dreamed of.
This book was beautifully written with a different type of HEA! Gosh did I love how it ended (I can’t reference it because then you will know how it ended and not read which you need to do)!
Ella took this book to a whole nother level and I’m not mad or sad behind how it all went down! The story flowed together, the clues all made sense and played a part in why things happened as they did.
Branson, I could say so much but I’m going to say little. He started off a lonely, broken abused boy and flourished into a fine young man with a plan
Teddy was deranged and delighted in the torturing and pain of others. She craved the kills more than anything. What in the world would make her stop when she had been doing it for so long because it was all she knew
Amelia was sweet and shy with a haunting secret. One Branson knew with just the amount of fuel would grow into a flame even he might now be able to put out!
Jane was straight up Looney Toons. Makes you wonder why couldn’t she just stop and be a normal person with a real career?
Their story is filled with lies, secrets, sex, and dare I say love. Teddy definitely keeps you on the edge of your seat with what she’s going to do next and to who.
This is a dark romance not suggested for those who can’t handle it! It’s one of the best psychological thrillers I’ve read since Kay Hooper and James Patterson! If you think you can handle her, then give Teddy a try! You won’t be disappointed!
A dark twisted romance through and through. The story of Branson, Teddy, Jane, and Bud. It was nothing like I imagined but more than I ever could have dreamed of.
This book was beautifully written with a different type of HEA! Gosh did I love how it ended (I can’t reference it because then you will know how it ended and not read which you need to do)!
Ella took this book to a whole nother level and I’m not mad or sad behind how it all went down! The story flowed together, the clues all made sense and played a part in why things happened as they did.
Branson, I could say so much but I’m going to say little. He started off a lonely, broken abused boy and flourished into a fine young man with a plan
Teddy was deranged and delighted in the torturing and pain of others. She craved the kills more than anything. What in the world would make her stop when she had been doing it for so long because it was all she knew
Amelia was sweet and shy with a haunting secret. One Branson knew with just the amount of fuel would grow into a flame even he might now be able to put out!
Jane was straight up Looney Toons. Makes you wonder why couldn’t she just stop and be a normal person with a real career?
Their story is filled with lies, secrets, sex, and dare I say love. Teddy definitely keeps you on the edge of your seat with what she’s going to do next and to who.
This is a dark romance not suggested for those who can’t handle it! It’s one of the best psychological thrillers I’ve read since Kay Hooper and James Patterson! If you think you can handle her, then give Teddy a try! You won’t be disappointed!
November 20, 2020
"Teddy has a darkness to her that can't be tamed, and I never accepted that. Now when I see her in her element, I revel in the beauty of her passion."
Ella Burns has crafted a masterpiece of chaos, death and passion. They Call Me Teddy is a dark descent into the minds and lives of two children. Branson and Amelia, otherwise known as Teddy. Taken in their early childhood, they know nothing except the killing hands of their master, her will and how they are groomed to her pleasing. But, different kinds of darkness are hidden in the two children. Years of finding themselves, finding each other and accepting who they truly are is what you can expect in these pages. If you are here to read a redemption story, you have knocked on the wrong shadowed doorway. The love that Branson and Teddy build for each other is one that is forged in torment and hell. There is no going back and love comes in unexpected and different colors. It paints life with all the things the soul longs for. Love can be dark, it can be hopeless, it can be filled with pain so great that most could not survive. A HEA is what you make of it. This isn't a fairy tale, you don't repeat it at night to help your kids sleep. This is darkness, this is twisted, this is their story and this is their love.
"Teddy and me against the world."
November 30, 2020
This is my first book by Ella Burns - and I will definitely be back for more!
Call Me Teddy is the story of Amelia and Branson - two children taken by a psychotic murderer. Raised around death and depravity, the one bright spark in their lives is each other.
This story is dark and twisted - it's not quite what you'd expect. It's a dash of Dexter, a spoonful of Silence of the Lambs, a pinch of BDSM and a good helping of psychological horror all rolled together.
It's not a horror. It's not a romance. You might just cry at the end. Enjoy. 🖤
Call Me Teddy is the story of Amelia and Branson - two children taken by a psychotic murderer. Raised around death and depravity, the one bright spark in their lives is each other.
This story is dark and twisted - it's not quite what you'd expect. It's a dash of Dexter, a spoonful of Silence of the Lambs, a pinch of BDSM and a good helping of psychological horror all rolled together.
It's not a horror. It's not a romance. You might just cry at the end. Enjoy. 🖤
October 4, 2021
Oh yeah, I wanted to read this book because of the cover!! 😍 That was the first thing that caught my eye! And - after reading the book - I can say that the cover fits the story 100%!!! 😍 Furthermore, the blurb looked 'right up my alley' ("...featuring young Branson and Amelia, two youths who are taken in and raised by a psychopath artist with a penchant for creating art with human flesh. You will find depravity, abuse and death within these pages and this is not for the faint of heart. You have been warned.")... so I felt a 5 star read coming up! 😁 But how wrong could I be?? I really struggled with this book. 😕
The story was sick and fucked up; but that is how I like my books!! 🥰 Then why didn't this book work for me?? 🙄
I can't pinpoint exactly why?!? I was reading the words, but I felt... nothing! A lot of things were happening... and at the same time I felt like nothing was happening? A sequence of undetailed, useless killings (in the name of art??), torture, abuse, blood, gore and insanity.
It was definitely horror-ish... but not very detailed. To be honest... especially the first half, it was even 'boring' 😳 (by lack of a better word!). Towards the end, the story got a little better (Bonny & Clyde ending), but man... what a struggle this books was for me. 🥴
A few words to describe this story? Useless, futile/ meaningless, purposeless... and utterly unbelievable. C'mon... how could this craziness go on and on for decades? Branson was kidnapped when he was just a little boy; he never had a normal life.... and still, after all the abuse, torture and ugliness, he was the way he was (rather normal)?? Teddy abused him and treated him so badly.... still he forgave her so easily? Yeah... that's likely and so believable 🙄... not! 🥴
To quote the author: "Here I am though at the end of it all and honestly? I envy the dead, for they remember nothing." 🤣
My rating: 3 stars, because of the cover 😉 and because I finished it. However bad and awful, when I finish the book, it usually gets my 3 stars. And this one definitely got that extra star for the cover.
For me, They Call Me Teddy was almost a waste of my reading time..... however, a lot of 5 star ratings for this book, so it must be me and not the book! 🤪
BTW, Ella Burns was a new-2-me-author.
Note: what would've been really interesting to read: the POV of the police officers who had to investigate this case!! 😁
November 30, 2020
“They Call me Teddy”
by Ella Burns
Just when I thought an author couldn’t possible suck me into yet another book starring a “troubled youth” or two, Ella Burns goes and crafts a story that not only introduces her readers to two of the MOST tormented young people ever written but does it in such a manner that we connect to and care for them even at their worst!
When you’re a child raised by a character named “Jane” who “creates art” out of human body-parts procured in criminal ways, you might possibly disconnect and be disconnected from reality for the sake of survival, but that doesn’t stop, “Branson” from loving and lusting after another child also robbed of her humanity, “Amelia” and yes, you can call her, “Teddy” if you’re wise…or else.
Ella takes you deep into a very dark world of depravity, abuse, horror in the true sense of the word, and love: the kind that can only be found by those who define it on their own terms, in their own way, regardless of how perverse.This isn’t a light-hearted story that encourages you to believe that people are inherently good or that love conquers all but rather a richly-written, vivid world of darkness where memorable- monsters are created and indulged in every chapter.
The story of Branson and Teddy is original and gut-wrenching. From locked cages to tables dripping with blood, to torture for pain and pleasure, the mayhem these two dammed-souls not only dish out but enjoy as a couple in their unique kind of love left me reeling. Killing is only the beginning of where this terrible romance goes.
Warning: It’s a very dark story even for those who believe, ”they’ve read it all.” It’s NOT for the faint of heart or those expecting that a female author will have mercy on her reader’s senses: Ella Burns does not. She grabs you by the throat with pointed claws and offers an experience full of broken humans, vivid passages, brutal descriptions, and a story you might not be prepared for but see it though to the end because Branson and Teddy demand it.
It’s a bold and brilliant book, it’s written and edited perfectly to allow every layer of the horrors it contains to shine, and as an experienced reader of the genre, I think it’s an absolute standout in a year full of important horror books.It will appeal to sophisticated readers who are looking for something unusual as well as those curious about what "makes" a highly original horror of a love story that is sure to haunt you!
I highly recommend “They Call Me Teddy” for those looking to take a face-paced, wild and bloody ride, to the dark side!
I received an ARC in advance of release and offer my honest review.
by Ella Burns
Just when I thought an author couldn’t possible suck me into yet another book starring a “troubled youth” or two, Ella Burns goes and crafts a story that not only introduces her readers to two of the MOST tormented young people ever written but does it in such a manner that we connect to and care for them even at their worst!
When you’re a child raised by a character named “Jane” who “creates art” out of human body-parts procured in criminal ways, you might possibly disconnect and be disconnected from reality for the sake of survival, but that doesn’t stop, “Branson” from loving and lusting after another child also robbed of her humanity, “Amelia” and yes, you can call her, “Teddy” if you’re wise…or else.
Ella takes you deep into a very dark world of depravity, abuse, horror in the true sense of the word, and love: the kind that can only be found by those who define it on their own terms, in their own way, regardless of how perverse.This isn’t a light-hearted story that encourages you to believe that people are inherently good or that love conquers all but rather a richly-written, vivid world of darkness where memorable- monsters are created and indulged in every chapter.
The story of Branson and Teddy is original and gut-wrenching. From locked cages to tables dripping with blood, to torture for pain and pleasure, the mayhem these two dammed-souls not only dish out but enjoy as a couple in their unique kind of love left me reeling. Killing is only the beginning of where this terrible romance goes.
Warning: It’s a very dark story even for those who believe, ”they’ve read it all.” It’s NOT for the faint of heart or those expecting that a female author will have mercy on her reader’s senses: Ella Burns does not. She grabs you by the throat with pointed claws and offers an experience full of broken humans, vivid passages, brutal descriptions, and a story you might not be prepared for but see it though to the end because Branson and Teddy demand it.
It’s a bold and brilliant book, it’s written and edited perfectly to allow every layer of the horrors it contains to shine, and as an experienced reader of the genre, I think it’s an absolute standout in a year full of important horror books.It will appeal to sophisticated readers who are looking for something unusual as well as those curious about what "makes" a highly original horror of a love story that is sure to haunt you!
I highly recommend “They Call Me Teddy” for those looking to take a face-paced, wild and bloody ride, to the dark side!
I received an ARC in advance of release and offer my honest review.
December 17, 2020
Wow
This book gave me all kinds of emotions throughout and once I started reading it I didn't stop til I finished I just had to know where it was going.
This book gave me all kinds of emotions throughout and once I started reading it I didn't stop til I finished I just had to know where it was going.
January 31, 2024
so dang good
I saw this recommended by a few people and I decided to give it a try! The story was amazing. The ending still broke my heart.
I saw this recommended by a few people and I decided to give it a try! The story was amazing. The ending still broke my heart.
November 23, 2020
Maybe if I listen, it’ll stop.
Maybe if I listen, she’ll love me.
Branson and Teddy, Bonny and Clyde, two sides of the same dime. Teddy is a psycho but pretty reasonable and both are the results of their upbringing all in all. But Branson yeah, that guy snaps like a twig and comes back a damn tree.
Once a friendship forged in captivity turns pitch black on both because every one develops in a different way and with a different purpose. But one thing is constant in this story, Teddy's yearning for Branson bit in her very own way. Blood, torture, slaughter, love and hate brings up Clyde, and Bonny is the very reason for him being this way. But the constant stays, they are attracted to each other but everyone shows love in a different way.
I have to admit, this book was something completely different from what I normally read, but it was a good read. Til now I've read all her books and loved them, this book is pretty special compared to the others but not less in quality. If you can cope with the ending (no hea), torture, slaughter, and psychological warfare than this might be a good read, but if not, I wouldn't recommend this.
Branson broke my heart and I am deep in love with him and this monster (yes I mean you Ella) made it possible again to loose myself for a bit :(
******* I was given an arc for an honest review******
Maybe if I listen, she’ll love me.
Branson and Teddy, Bonny and Clyde, two sides of the same dime. Teddy is a psycho but pretty reasonable and both are the results of their upbringing all in all. But Branson yeah, that guy snaps like a twig and comes back a damn tree.
Once a friendship forged in captivity turns pitch black on both because every one develops in a different way and with a different purpose. But one thing is constant in this story, Teddy's yearning for Branson bit in her very own way. Blood, torture, slaughter, love and hate brings up Clyde, and Bonny is the very reason for him being this way. But the constant stays, they are attracted to each other but everyone shows love in a different way.
I have to admit, this book was something completely different from what I normally read, but it was a good read. Til now I've read all her books and loved them, this book is pretty special compared to the others but not less in quality. If you can cope with the ending (no hea), torture, slaughter, and psychological warfare than this might be a good read, but if not, I wouldn't recommend this.
Branson broke my heart and I am deep in love with him and this monster (yes I mean you Ella) made it possible again to loose myself for a bit :(
******* I was given an arc for an honest review******
November 23, 2020
When Ella says it's dark and depraved it's dark, depraved and more! Branson and Amelia (Teddy) where raised in hell, by a woman called Jane. Jane is an artist, through fear and pain and human flesh. Branson was taught darkness whilst Teddy already had it in her, only Branson didnt realise just how much Amelia would change in time after spending 2 years away with Jane. The sweet girl had gone and left a psycho in its place and he was her new toy. Time passed and Teddy found she lacked the thrill of her previous kills and teasing her toy Branson, who had become puppy like in following hers and Jane's demands. Until the tide changes and Branson saves Teddy by killing for her, Teddy sees the man that the boy she craved grew into and she wants more. Branson never stopped loving her through it all, but he loathes himself for wanting her after all she did to him. Will they ever find the balance between give and take to make something work between them? Or will the years of abuse and torture be too much to look past?
This book truly take you on a roller coaster ride of emotions through trauma, abuse and torture. Well written with a captivating story that sinks its hooks in till the end and leaves you in a state of shock, awe and more! The characters ignite so many feelings and your kept on your toes till the very end with twists out of no where!
This book is truly something else!
This book truly take you on a roller coaster ride of emotions through trauma, abuse and torture. Well written with a captivating story that sinks its hooks in till the end and leaves you in a state of shock, awe and more! The characters ignite so many feelings and your kept on your toes till the very end with twists out of no where!
This book is truly something else!
November 30, 2020
WOW! Where do I start? This book was seriously something else but let me warn you, this is a super dark and twisted book, exactly what I love!
I felt for Branson from the beginning; his story was heart-breaking, he lived through years of abuse, was forced to have no emotions, and he was broken until Amelia came into his life, and he finally saw a little light in all that darkness. Amelia was shy and sweet but with a dark secret, a secret that Branson refused to believe at the beginning. Until he embraced his own darkness just like Amelia (Teddy) did a long time ago, Teddy, on the other hand, was the complete opposite of Amelia; she was dark, crazy, and deranged, the relationship between Amelia (Teddy) and Branson was intriguing and lovely. I have to say I wasn't ready for the end, but Ella gave the perfect ending for Amelia (Teddy) and Branson.
This author was new to me, but there's no doubt I will be reading more of her work. Ella took this story to a different level; it was captivating and beautifully written. The book was nothing like I imagined, the suspense will have you on edge and ready for more. It was the perfect combination of horror and dark every chapter was better than the other.
So, if you have no triggers, you love dark, horror romance, and twisted books then I highly recommend this book!!
I felt for Branson from the beginning; his story was heart-breaking, he lived through years of abuse, was forced to have no emotions, and he was broken until Amelia came into his life, and he finally saw a little light in all that darkness. Amelia was shy and sweet but with a dark secret, a secret that Branson refused to believe at the beginning. Until he embraced his own darkness just like Amelia (Teddy) did a long time ago, Teddy, on the other hand, was the complete opposite of Amelia; she was dark, crazy, and deranged, the relationship between Amelia (Teddy) and Branson was intriguing and lovely. I have to say I wasn't ready for the end, but Ella gave the perfect ending for Amelia (Teddy) and Branson.
This author was new to me, but there's no doubt I will be reading more of her work. Ella took this story to a different level; it was captivating and beautifully written. The book was nothing like I imagined, the suspense will have you on edge and ready for more. It was the perfect combination of horror and dark every chapter was better than the other.
So, if you have no triggers, you love dark, horror romance, and twisted books then I highly recommend this book!!
November 19, 2020
Toxic...cruel...unusual...but soooo good!!!
You know an author has talent when they take a concept that you've read before and twists and turns it to something so unique you can't seem to stop reading. Also, when it's your first read of that author and now you're very interested in reading their backlist.
That's what Ella Burns did with this book. She pulled me in immediately and did a bit of role reversal in what we are used to in a setting described in this storyline. I'm not saying more than that because I don't do spoilers in my reviews.
Fair warning, this story is not a fairy tale, that's for sure. What we end up with is a love story as wild as Harley and the Joker. Not sure if this speaks to my deranged skewed view of love but I rooted for their HEA from the beginning. We don't know how much we need love until we have it and then we don't know how crazy it will make us to keep it.
Well done Ella!!!
PS. Thank you HR Savage for sending her the cover link without that we may have had to wait longer for the darkness Ella showered upon us with this read.
ARC provided for an honest review.
You know an author has talent when they take a concept that you've read before and twists and turns it to something so unique you can't seem to stop reading. Also, when it's your first read of that author and now you're very interested in reading their backlist.
That's what Ella Burns did with this book. She pulled me in immediately and did a bit of role reversal in what we are used to in a setting described in this storyline. I'm not saying more than that because I don't do spoilers in my reviews.
Fair warning, this story is not a fairy tale, that's for sure. What we end up with is a love story as wild as Harley and the Joker. Not sure if this speaks to my deranged skewed view of love but I rooted for their HEA from the beginning. We don't know how much we need love until we have it and then we don't know how crazy it will make us to keep it.
Well done Ella!!!
PS. Thank you HR Savage for sending her the cover link without that we may have had to wait longer for the darkness Ella showered upon us with this read.
ARC provided for an honest review.
July 1, 2021
So I freaking loved this book and I'm not sure what that says about me. lol
Branson is such a broken boy/man that was treated so bad by not only Jane (the captor) but Amelia aka Teddy. I felt so bad for him and kept rooting for him to escape. I was literally screaming at the book when he was saying he loved Amelia and he wouldn't leave without her. After her torturing him all those years. I thought clearly it's because he is completely messed up from the trauma that he doesn't know what love really is but towards the end of the book I realized they really were perfect for each other. Neither of them could ever live normal lives no matter how much they tried and I think they both knew that. so it makes perfect sense to me that it ended the way that it did. I can't say I didn't hate Teddy at different points in the book but at the end I totally saw her in a different light. She redeemed herself sort to speak. And well Jane got what she deserved. No loss there. I think this is one I'm going to sit and think about for awhile to digest everything I read. I definitely can't wait to read more by this author.
Branson is such a broken boy/man that was treated so bad by not only Jane (the captor) but Amelia aka Teddy. I felt so bad for him and kept rooting for him to escape. I was literally screaming at the book when he was saying he loved Amelia and he wouldn't leave without her. After her torturing him all those years. I thought clearly it's because he is completely messed up from the trauma that he doesn't know what love really is but towards the end of the book I realized they really were perfect for each other. Neither of them could ever live normal lives no matter how much they tried and I think they both knew that. so it makes perfect sense to me that it ended the way that it did. I can't say I didn't hate Teddy at different points in the book but at the end I totally saw her in a different light. She redeemed herself sort to speak. And well Jane got what she deserved. No loss there. I think this is one I'm going to sit and think about for awhile to digest everything I read. I definitely can't wait to read more by this author.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 30, 2020
This is the first book I have read from Ella Burns. I am glad I decided to try this author. This book is not a romance book at all. There are trigger warnings and the readers should really pay attention to them before reading this book. If you are like me and have no triggers, then dive on in! The majority of the book is told from Branson’s point of view and his story is at times heartbreaking and interesting all at once. What he goes through on a day-to-day basis most people couldn’t even imagine. Amelia ends up being his bright shinning star in the darkness. But she has a darkness of her own that Branson will come to learn about. The author tells you that this is not a romance and she is correct. There are some steamy scenes and while they are enjoyable, don’t be fooled into thinking this is going to have the HEA that romance often does. But the ending fit the story for me. I couldn’t see it ending any other way. The twists and turns and ups and downs will have you all over the place. I enjoyed this story and will read more from the author.
December 1, 2020
Perfectly Dark
This book was the perfect mix of dark,gore,and a bit of a toxic relationship. We first meet Branson who had been kidnapped by Jane and is being held captive. We learn that Jane is an artist who specializes in the use of fresh body parts and blood to make her masterpieces. Amelia is also kidnapped by Jane at an early age but she has a very different upbringing with Jane and is extremely intrigued by Janes art. This is when we start
To she the different personalities between Amelia who still has a bit of innocence and Teddy who becomes Janes prodigy, Branson’s second tormentor, and a cold hearted killer. There are many twists and turns in this book that bring Branson and Teddy/Amelia into a beautifully toxic relationship. The last part of this book gives you such emotional scenes that it may bring you to tears. I absolutely loved the Bonnie & Clyde feeling of Branson & Teddy. This story is extremely dark but in the best way it may not seem like a romance but I promise you it is
This book was the perfect mix of dark,gore,and a bit of a toxic relationship. We first meet Branson who had been kidnapped by Jane and is being held captive. We learn that Jane is an artist who specializes in the use of fresh body parts and blood to make her masterpieces. Amelia is also kidnapped by Jane at an early age but she has a very different upbringing with Jane and is extremely intrigued by Janes art. This is when we start
To she the different personalities between Amelia who still has a bit of innocence and Teddy who becomes Janes prodigy, Branson’s second tormentor, and a cold hearted killer. There are many twists and turns in this book that bring Branson and Teddy/Amelia into a beautifully toxic relationship. The last part of this book gives you such emotional scenes that it may bring you to tears. I absolutely loved the Bonnie & Clyde feeling of Branson & Teddy. This story is extremely dark but in the best way it may not seem like a romance but I promise you it is
December 6, 2020
They Cal Me Teddy is a twisted and darkly malicious romantic book. What happens when two seemingly innocent children and taken in, mentored, and tortured by a sadistic serial killer? They quickly lose their innocence and embrace their inner monstrous urges. This book is not for the faint of heart, and it is enveloped with triggers. I do say that it's sort of a romance book only because of how Teddy and Branson's relationship changes and grows throughout the book. The book is told in Branson's and Mia's points of view. Ms. Burns' ability to drench us in the dark and morbid while dangling a small light is completely unique. As stated by Ms. Burns, They Call Me Teddy is rife with triggers and depravity. I absolutely LOVED this, and I felt for both Branson and Mia. I found the ending to be absolutely perfect, and I can't see it going a different way. I highly recommend this book to those with little to no triggers, and for those that enjoy a different type of book. Thank you Ms. Burns for gifting me an e-ARC of your book. This was my honest opinion.
November 27, 2020
Wow! Not a book I would normally read, but I gotta say I absolutely loved this one. Branson and Amelia (Teddy) go thru so much. Jane is so evil. She tortures these 2 human beings in my opinion for her pleasure. Branson does everything he can do to survive all the while trying to keep Teddy a nice girl and not a monster like Jane. Jane doesn’t like the bond these two have and takes her away for a bit. Teddy comes back and well you absolutely have to read to see what happens. So much suspense and a page turner. I didn’t want to put it down because I wanted to know what was going to happen. Would these 2 get away from Jane’s clutches or would they be victims of her crimes?
November 30, 2020
Holy moly
Wow. Where to start with this book without giving spoilers! Well it’s not for the faint of heart. This book will take you to the darkest parts of your mind whilst taking on you a seriously bumpy emotional rollercoaster. But it is amazing. Although, as I’ve said, it’s dark it all flows as part of the book and nothing seems done for ‘shock value’. It’s brilliantly written and makes you want to route for characters we really shouldn’t. It has seriously left me with a massive book hangover (in a really good way) and it’s going to take me a few weeks to get over it! It’s a book that will stay with me for a long time and a must read. Epic!!
Wow. Where to start with this book without giving spoilers! Well it’s not for the faint of heart. This book will take you to the darkest parts of your mind whilst taking on you a seriously bumpy emotional rollercoaster. But it is amazing. Although, as I’ve said, it’s dark it all flows as part of the book and nothing seems done for ‘shock value’. It’s brilliantly written and makes you want to route for characters we really shouldn’t. It has seriously left me with a massive book hangover (in a really good way) and it’s going to take me a few weeks to get over it! It’s a book that will stay with me for a long time and a must read. Epic!!
February 14, 2021
A bloody masterpiece
This is not a happy Funtime romance. Definitely trigger warnings. If you don’t like blood move on to the next book on your list. But if you’re like me and enjoy diving into the dark abyss and never knowing exactly what you’ll find. Sit back and relax. This is a crazy weaved bloody brilliant story. It’s tragic and emotional and plays with your soul. I had fun and can truly say it kept me guessing and falling in love more with the characters with each page.
This is not a happy Funtime romance. Definitely trigger warnings. If you don’t like blood move on to the next book on your list. But if you’re like me and enjoy diving into the dark abyss and never knowing exactly what you’ll find. Sit back and relax. This is a crazy weaved bloody brilliant story. It’s tragic and emotional and plays with your soul. I had fun and can truly say it kept me guessing and falling in love more with the characters with each page.
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