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Kings of Sorrows and Dreams #1
The Bride Collector
Someone—something—is hunting brides, and I need answers.
Centuries ago, monsters from our myths, fairytales, and nightmares invaded our world. To most they are invisible, but not to me.
From my elegant campervan headquarters, with my sidekick demon cat, Lump, I investigate paranormal problems.
In my search for the truth, I break into a bookshop owned by Harrow. He easily traps me, but Harrow is a Stitched soldier, given enhanced abilities for the sole purpose of killing the creatures not of our world.
Two monsters share possession of his scarred body. Drawn into their carnal maelstrom, I am taken and owned by all three.
A man caressing me, the lure of the incubus, the tentacles of a kraken – I have found a love I could never have imagined.
Yet our love may be shattered, for the hunt is still on.
The Bride Collector has another victim in his sights.
Me.
We four must destroy this immortal or die trying.
“Mysteries are solved, demons are banished, epic battles are fought and there’s still time for lots of k*nky, smutty, tentacle, incubus, and supernatural human s*x.” Janine, Goodreads reviewer.
***
Viktoria – Will she finally get to use the Romance word in her diary, as well as the F word and the D word?
Harrow – He just wants her, any which way, even after he becomes two instead of three.
Ashcadel – When the incubus gets free of Harrow and takes full possession of a new, A-grade, man-bod, there is only one annoying female he wants to turn upside down and thoroughly explore – Viktoria.
Beez – he lurks inside Harrow, he waits, and he lends a few helping tentacles when the need for violence is great or the steam is off the chain.
Lump – is an arrogant supernatural feline and a creature of nightmare. But fear him not. All Lump wants is to purr in Viktoria’s lap, fetch what her heart desires, and watch the action when her three males get busy.
The Bride Collector is a standalone romance.
Nightmare Rising is Book 2 and the first part of the romance between Val and Zara.
The third book will neatly tie everything together, and bring back Harrow, Ash, Viktoria, and Beez as side characters, while Zara and Val get their Happily Ever After—okay, not so neatly since it's a slippery mess of tentacles, monsters, weirdness, and some mythological creatures that like doing despicably filthy things.
Content advisory: mildly dark theme, graphic content, SA by the villain, violence, and some gore.
Centuries ago, monsters from our myths, fairytales, and nightmares invaded our world. To most they are invisible, but not to me.
From my elegant campervan headquarters, with my sidekick demon cat, Lump, I investigate paranormal problems.
In my search for the truth, I break into a bookshop owned by Harrow. He easily traps me, but Harrow is a Stitched soldier, given enhanced abilities for the sole purpose of killing the creatures not of our world.
Two monsters share possession of his scarred body. Drawn into their carnal maelstrom, I am taken and owned by all three.
A man caressing me, the lure of the incubus, the tentacles of a kraken – I have found a love I could never have imagined.
Yet our love may be shattered, for the hunt is still on.
The Bride Collector has another victim in his sights.
Me.
We four must destroy this immortal or die trying.
“Mysteries are solved, demons are banished, epic battles are fought and there’s still time for lots of k*nky, smutty, tentacle, incubus, and supernatural human s*x.” Janine, Goodreads reviewer.
***
Viktoria – Will she finally get to use the Romance word in her diary, as well as the F word and the D word?
Harrow – He just wants her, any which way, even after he becomes two instead of three.
Ashcadel – When the incubus gets free of Harrow and takes full possession of a new, A-grade, man-bod, there is only one annoying female he wants to turn upside down and thoroughly explore – Viktoria.
Beez – he lurks inside Harrow, he waits, and he lends a few helping tentacles when the need for violence is great or the steam is off the chain.
Lump – is an arrogant supernatural feline and a creature of nightmare. But fear him not. All Lump wants is to purr in Viktoria’s lap, fetch what her heart desires, and watch the action when her three males get busy.
The Bride Collector is a standalone romance.
Nightmare Rising is Book 2 and the first part of the romance between Val and Zara.
The third book will neatly tie everything together, and bring back Harrow, Ash, Viktoria, and Beez as side characters, while Zara and Val get their Happily Ever After—okay, not so neatly since it's a slippery mess of tentacles, monsters, weirdness, and some mythological creatures that like doing despicably filthy things.
Content advisory: mildly dark theme, graphic content, SA by the villain, violence, and some gore.
386 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 14, 2023
194 people are currently reading
255 people want to read
About the author
Cari Silverwood
100 books1,218 followersCari Silverwood lives in Australia and is a New York Times bestselling writer of kinky darkness or sometimes dark kinkiness, depending on her moods and the amount of time she's spent staring into the night.
Check out this page to avoid falling into the wrong dark and shocking book, because she really does write some weird stories: www.carisilverwood.net/my-books-liste...
Sign up to get sales and new releases plus various odd stuff she puts into it (and a free welcome book) at www.carisilverwood.net/
You can reach Cari at carisilverwood1@gmail.com
or
on Facebook at www.facebook.com/cari.silverwood
Check out this page to avoid falling into the wrong dark and shocking book, because she really does write some weird stories: www.carisilverwood.net/my-books-liste...
Sign up to get sales and new releases plus various odd stuff she puts into it (and a free welcome book) at www.carisilverwood.net/
You can reach Cari at carisilverwood1@gmail.com
or
on Facebook at www.facebook.com/cari.silverwood
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews
March 11, 2023
Cari Silverwood is one of the few authors that knows how to add spice to her stories in a way that makes you come back,time and time again.
That creates worlds beyond your imagination,with men that may seem good,but have an edge to them…..a dark and wicked one.
They know what to do with that edge,and who to use it on.
Most of the time,it’s the heroine,but don’t worry,she enjoys it…..very much!
The Bride Collector is such a story,with a kick-ass heroine called Victoria that’s more than she seems to be.
Who has a cat called Lump as companion,that is more than it seems to be,and has been with ner for a long time.
With a flawed hero called Harrow,who is a lot more than she thought he was.
With all sorts of supernatural creatures lurking in the shop he owns.
Not only that,it seems he houses a few of his own inside of him…..until Ash is forced to leave him for another body.
And as an incubus,he knows how to use that body to seduce our heroine.
The Kraken called Beez that stays within our hero adds his tentacles to the ravaging,leaving our heroine with no other choice,than to surrender to these three deliciously dark and dirty souls.
Is that all you ask?
Well,if this isn’t enough to keep you on your toes,there also is an enemy,with evil plans.
A supernatural enemy,looking for a special kind of girl…..to do bad things to.
Guess who is determined to stop him….and what ends up happening?
As usual,Cari manages to weave spice and suspense together seamlessly.
Giving you a story that grabs you from the first page,and doesn’t let go until all of your needs are satisfied.
That taps into your imagination,and takes you on a rollercoaster ride with wonderful results.
Getting the ARC was a gift that i enjoyed véry much,i can tell you!
And the good news is that this is a prequel to another story she’s written in 2017,called Nightmare Rising….and she’s planning to write more in this world!!
That creates worlds beyond your imagination,with men that may seem good,but have an edge to them…..a dark and wicked one.
They know what to do with that edge,and who to use it on.
Most of the time,it’s the heroine,but don’t worry,she enjoys it…..very much!
The Bride Collector is such a story,with a kick-ass heroine called Victoria that’s more than she seems to be.
Who has a cat called Lump as companion,that is more than it seems to be,and has been with ner for a long time.
With a flawed hero called Harrow,who is a lot more than she thought he was.
With all sorts of supernatural creatures lurking in the shop he owns.
Not only that,it seems he houses a few of his own inside of him…..until Ash is forced to leave him for another body.
And as an incubus,he knows how to use that body to seduce our heroine.
The Kraken called Beez that stays within our hero adds his tentacles to the ravaging,leaving our heroine with no other choice,than to surrender to these three deliciously dark and dirty souls.
Is that all you ask?
Well,if this isn’t enough to keep you on your toes,there also is an enemy,with evil plans.
A supernatural enemy,looking for a special kind of girl…..to do bad things to.
Guess who is determined to stop him….and what ends up happening?
As usual,Cari manages to weave spice and suspense together seamlessly.
Giving you a story that grabs you from the first page,and doesn’t let go until all of your needs are satisfied.
That taps into your imagination,and takes you on a rollercoaster ride with wonderful results.
Getting the ARC was a gift that i enjoyed véry much,i can tell you!
And the good news is that this is a prequel to another story she’s written in 2017,called Nightmare Rising….and she’s planning to write more in this world!!
March 18, 2023
Viktoria a paranormal Investigator's latest job brings her directly to Harrow's bookstore and to the attention of the hotty proprietor himself. Harrow is an unusual individual he houses inside two separate entities Ashcadel an Incubus and Beezelbub a Kraken. Victoria also always had a little bit of other about her, accompanied by her otherworldly feline named lump and some added extra senses make for a special girl and even she’s not really sure of the whys of it all.
Hot on the trail of a supernatural adversary she manages to place herself directly in the crosshairs of a powerful enemy. Now along with her unusual lovers if they want a chance at a future they will need to work as a team and together defeat this dangerous enemy.
This was an intriguing and unique read plenty of supernatural imagery combined with delicious deviant dirtiness made for a fun time. This had the correct blend of both and definitely appealed making this a great experience. With a fun vibe running alongside all of the additional intrigue, this was certainly entertaining. This provides some incredibly graphic imagery but it’s not really a dark one and man the visuals this one imparts were definitely x-rated.
I appreciated all of the individual characters in this unique menagerie of a relationship Harrow Ash and Beez were definitely originals and so multi-talented and being part of one unit for so long meant they were also very in tune which was a definite win-win for Viktoria. Who is most definitely their own special unicorn.
This was well written and quite niche in its flavour. But If monster shenanigans with some tentacles action appeal as they do for me or even if you are just curious (go on I know you want to) then this one is sure to hit the spot and it definitely has you covered on all fronts. I enjoyed myself a great deal and with the highly imaginative narrative this also then felt so incredibly fresh and a definite original. For added clarity, I'd say this is a menage with an MfM set-up and Beez brings some extra fun to the mix so this could also be classed as MfMM. I voluntarily reviewed a copy of The Bride Collector.
Reviewed By Beckie Bookworm
https://www.bookbub.com/profile/63435390
March 14, 2023
Cari Silverwood’s The Bride Collector was an absolute delight to read. It’s…a bit like getting everything you could ever want in a story but didn’t know you wanted. It’s like Ms. Silverwood has taken all the different potential tropes that might exist in a PNR (generically speaking), thrown them all in a blender, hit high and then tossed out the contents to see what comes out and it’s fabulous. I love Harrow (and his crew, again generically speaking) and Viktoria (and Lump). Okay, I might like Lump best, but that’s me.
There’s so much going on in this story. We get a mostly humorous while also slightly horrific breakdown of the story as well as learning about who Harrow (and the gang) is/are and where Viktoria came from (Well. More questions than answers.). At the same time, this IS a romance, but in typical Ms. Silverwood fashion, which means it’s equal parts funny, scary, hot, horrific, smexy, seriously smexy. And that showdown! Sort of felt as though I was rubbernecking as I read it and couldn’t resist highlighting quotes that were making me cackle.
I love her stories. For me, whether it’s a pun-fest with math equations, a talking sword, ginormous alpha heroes, sassy heroines, or tentacles, Ms. Silverwood’s stories are all so enjoyable that I can’t resist.
There’s so much going on in this story. We get a mostly humorous while also slightly horrific breakdown of the story as well as learning about who Harrow (and the gang) is/are and where Viktoria came from (Well. More questions than answers.). At the same time, this IS a romance, but in typical Ms. Silverwood fashion, which means it’s equal parts funny, scary, hot, horrific, smexy, seriously smexy. And that showdown! Sort of felt as though I was rubbernecking as I read it and couldn’t resist highlighting quotes that were making me cackle.
I love her stories. For me, whether it’s a pun-fest with math equations, a talking sword, ginormous alpha heroes, sassy heroines, or tentacles, Ms. Silverwood’s stories are all so enjoyable that I can’t resist.
March 10, 2023
Viktoria, Harrow, Ashcadel and Beez!
This was quite an interesting book. It is a paranormal genre I have not read before. Viktoria is an investigator of the paranormal. Her actions are guided by witnessing the death of her mother when she was a child. Revenge is her ultimate motive. Viktoria is more than she first seems, but she does not understand what that more is. She chooses to leave a solitary life, traveling from place to place with just her cat – Lump, hired to rid places of paranormal activity. In this instance she is hired to ensure that a soon-to-be-bride will not be murdered by her fiancé before the wedding. As she tries to prove that nothing nefarious is taking place with the fiancé, she quickly finds herself drawn to the local bookstore and a certain book. She finds herself coming face to face with Harrow who is more than just a bookshop owner. His body is home to 2 creatures - an incubus and a kraken, His bookshop is also home to others who are not quite human. What starts with 2 bodies – Viktoria and Harrow, soon become 3 and then 4. It will take all of them, plus more, working together to bring an end to an immortal who is kidnapping brides right before their wedding. But rest assured, as the author says, there will be plenty of clothes flinging taking place. A very enjoyable read and I am happy to see that there will be another book in this series.
I received an advance reader copy of this book. As usual, I was not disappointed by this book.
This was quite an interesting book. It is a paranormal genre I have not read before. Viktoria is an investigator of the paranormal. Her actions are guided by witnessing the death of her mother when she was a child. Revenge is her ultimate motive. Viktoria is more than she first seems, but she does not understand what that more is. She chooses to leave a solitary life, traveling from place to place with just her cat – Lump, hired to rid places of paranormal activity. In this instance she is hired to ensure that a soon-to-be-bride will not be murdered by her fiancé before the wedding. As she tries to prove that nothing nefarious is taking place with the fiancé, she quickly finds herself drawn to the local bookstore and a certain book. She finds herself coming face to face with Harrow who is more than just a bookshop owner. His body is home to 2 creatures - an incubus and a kraken, His bookshop is also home to others who are not quite human. What starts with 2 bodies – Viktoria and Harrow, soon become 3 and then 4. It will take all of them, plus more, working together to bring an end to an immortal who is kidnapping brides right before their wedding. But rest assured, as the author says, there will be plenty of clothes flinging taking place. A very enjoyable read and I am happy to see that there will be another book in this series.
I received an advance reader copy of this book. As usual, I was not disappointed by this book.
March 20, 2023
Imagination, dreams, and nightmares run amok.
“I frowned and returned to my observation of Viktoria’s disappearing bottom. Why did every twitch make me imagine that she was giving me the finger?” …because you’re an astute man, Mr. Harrow MacNeill. 😂
Viktoria is a great heroine; sassy, fun, and kicks booty while still showing vulnerability.
Harrow is a great hero and counterpoint to Viktoria; solid, dependable, and a low-key caregiver, though he’d totally deny it.
Ash, the incubus. After many years with Harrow he’s learned much of humans, yet because he’s been unable to interact autonomously with them, is still very innocent in some regards, while endearingly debauched in others.
And finally Beez, the kraken…he certainly learns how to makes his presence known. 😂
The Bride Collector is entertaining and captured my attention. While it could have easily gone down quite a dark road, the author’s ability to poke fun at and offer levity in any situation, keeps this story more wanton-filled action and fun rather than dark or broody. And tentacles. Lots of tentacles also helps.
These nightmare, myth, and legendary creatures weave a fun imaginative tale, Harrow’s special cookies not required for seeing these creatures 😂 <— and if you haven’t read the book, you don’t get it, but trust, that right there is hilarious.
SPOILERS for this last paragraph, so please skip if you don’t have any triggers. One situation I hate to mention because it could improperly taint someone’s view of this story, but I feel remiss in not warning: there is an extremely short r•p• scene when a bad guy gets hold of Viktoria. It’s not written to be salacious or traumatic. The emotions highlighted are Viktoria’s bravery and fortitude, making me cheer her moxie, rather than anguish her experience.
“I frowned and returned to my observation of Viktoria’s disappearing bottom. Why did every twitch make me imagine that she was giving me the finger?” …because you’re an astute man, Mr. Harrow MacNeill. 😂
Viktoria is a great heroine; sassy, fun, and kicks booty while still showing vulnerability.
Harrow is a great hero and counterpoint to Viktoria; solid, dependable, and a low-key caregiver, though he’d totally deny it.
Ash, the incubus. After many years with Harrow he’s learned much of humans, yet because he’s been unable to interact autonomously with them, is still very innocent in some regards, while endearingly debauched in others.
And finally Beez, the kraken…he certainly learns how to makes his presence known. 😂
The Bride Collector is entertaining and captured my attention. While it could have easily gone down quite a dark road, the author’s ability to poke fun at and offer levity in any situation, keeps this story more wanton-filled action and fun rather than dark or broody. And tentacles. Lots of tentacles also helps.
These nightmare, myth, and legendary creatures weave a fun imaginative tale, Harrow’s special cookies not required for seeing these creatures 😂 <— and if you haven’t read the book, you don’t get it, but trust, that right there is hilarious.
SPOILERS for this last paragraph, so please skip if you don’t have any triggers. One situation I hate to mention because it could improperly taint someone’s view of this story, but I feel remiss in not warning: there is an extremely short r•p• scene when a bad guy gets hold of Viktoria. It’s not written to be salacious or traumatic. The emotions highlighted are Viktoria’s bravery and fortitude, making me cheer her moxie, rather than anguish her experience.
March 18, 2023
Oh my word...what did I just read?!?! I really didn't know what I was getting into when I started reading this book. I knew it was in the works since this author is one of my favorite dark romance authors but I haven't paid much attention lately. Just picked it up at release and started reading. And my brain didn't really get the title until I was like three-fourth or so in when it finally dawn on me, LOL. All I got to say is that Viktoria is one LUCKY lady. I mean, not what happened towards the end, but gosh, just love this authors imagination!!! Enjoyed the mystery and suspense of the hunt, but man, those sexy times...just YES, YES, YES!!! This one is totally not to be missed!
March 26, 2023
A paranormal investigator, Victoria, takes on a case that will definitely be more than she bargained for. Her case leads her into town and to the local book shop. Here, she meets Harrow. But Harrow is possessed by two other beings, Ashcadel, an incubus, and Beezlibub, a kraken. This reverse harem gets down to business pretty soon, bringing on the heat! There are so many elements and forces to keep you spinning with this book. The world building is very good, and you'll love the characters. There is tons of action in this roller coaster ride.
March 27, 2023
3.5 stars. The world building was instantly satisfying and different. Then it took a turn into crazy-tentacle-RH-smuttsville. Which I’m not entirely opposed to, (duh) of course, but it departed from the rest of the story enough to take me out of things. Still had a very fun time reading this! Oh, and fabulous cover art. 👍💗
April 2, 2023
This is another great dark romance by Cari Silverwood that I greatly enjoyed! I love the characters and the varied personalities from them all. This is a great dark paranormal romance with some very steamy scenes and if you enjoy those kinds of books, you will definitely enjoy this one.
April 16, 2023
Outstanding dark fantasy romance. On to Book 2
March 19, 2023
Step right up folks, the crazy train is now boarding. Next stop, the station of sorrows, dreams and nightmares. All aboard !
Its been quite some time that I've read a paranormal book. I forgot what I had been missing . This book swept me away to another world right from the very first page and I couldn't stop reading.
But before I go any further, for those of you who don't like kink and steam and sexy times. STOP NOW.!! This is not a fizzy plain romance!
You have been warned !
Victoria the MFC, is a paranormal investigator who is just this side of being normal. She has the sight and maybe more. She takes on a job in a small English community. Brides are being kidnapped and turning up dead. Victoria meets Harrow the owner of a bookstore called Harrows. They are both attracted to each other but Victoria is afraid to take any chances as she had accidentally killed her lover when having sex.
Harrow is not quite human either. He is possessed by 2 demons.
Ashcadel the incubus and Beez the krakken. Occasionally, they come out to play.
Harrow is also not sure if he should take a chance either. His book store is a safety zone for others who are not quite human.
Viktoria and Harrow decide to solve the murders together.
They discover the villain is Darious, an immortal, who is doing dastardly experiments on the brides. It doesn't work on them and they are murdered.
And then... But wait.. What ....I can't believe you thought I was gonna tell you what happens. Oh, I forgot about the magical cat, Lump.
Read the story because I know you won't be disappointed.
All aboard the train now!!!
I was given an arc for an honest review.
Its been quite some time that I've read a paranormal book. I forgot what I had been missing . This book swept me away to another world right from the very first page and I couldn't stop reading.
But before I go any further, for those of you who don't like kink and steam and sexy times. STOP NOW.!! This is not a fizzy plain romance!
You have been warned !
Victoria the MFC, is a paranormal investigator who is just this side of being normal. She has the sight and maybe more. She takes on a job in a small English community. Brides are being kidnapped and turning up dead. Victoria meets Harrow the owner of a bookstore called Harrows. They are both attracted to each other but Victoria is afraid to take any chances as she had accidentally killed her lover when having sex.
Harrow is not quite human either. He is possessed by 2 demons.
Ashcadel the incubus and Beez the krakken. Occasionally, they come out to play.
Harrow is also not sure if he should take a chance either. His book store is a safety zone for others who are not quite human.
Viktoria and Harrow decide to solve the murders together.
They discover the villain is Darious, an immortal, who is doing dastardly experiments on the brides. It doesn't work on them and they are murdered.
And then... But wait.. What ....I can't believe you thought I was gonna tell you what happens. Oh, I forgot about the magical cat, Lump.
Read the story because I know you won't be disappointed.
All aboard the train now!!!
I was given an arc for an honest review.
May 7, 2023
This is the first book by the author that I actually enjoyed that had the smut as front and center of the storyline. Of course, we do have a plot somewhere in there but I did not care. I was here for the smut and the monster romance that I have come to enjoy since my first taste of these romances. And reverse harem? GIMME! GIMME! GIMME!
5/5
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5/5
Book Reviews | Pillowfort | Twitter | Bookbub | Spoutible | Instagram | LibraryThing
March 31, 2023
I went into this blind, with absolutely no information except the cover.
Wow wow wow what a novel. We meet Viktoria, a badass supernatural hunter who can't enjoy happy fun times without accidentally showing off her actual claws. She falls into the lap of mysterious and super hot bookstore owner Harrow, who has his own demons.
Viktoria is on the trail of brides who commit suicide right before they tie the knot, and s during her research she discovers a plot far more sinister than just lost brides.
If you enjoy RH, mystery and magic, and the occasional surprise tentacle, then this is the book for you. The action was good, the banter was better. Overall, a really enjoyable monster read.
Wow wow wow what a novel. We meet Viktoria, a badass supernatural hunter who can't enjoy happy fun times without accidentally showing off her actual claws. She falls into the lap of mysterious and super hot bookstore owner Harrow, who has his own demons.
Viktoria is on the trail of brides who commit suicide right before they tie the knot, and s during her research she discovers a plot far more sinister than just lost brides.
If you enjoy RH, mystery and magic, and the occasional surprise tentacle, then this is the book for you. The action was good, the banter was better. Overall, a really enjoyable monster read.
Read
March 20, 2023Dnf @ 10%. I think the genre of urban fantasy is not really my thing, especially as the writing felt very out of place and I really couldn't feel engaged with the book or the characters at all.
Not going to rate this one.
Not going to rate this one.
March 29, 2023
Did I love it? Yes. Did it make me snort laugh multiple times? Also, yes. However, I found myself having to reread lines due to poor editing. If you can look past that, you are in for a fun read. Looking forward to reading the second book.
April 25, 2023
Our story opens with MC showing up for a job while not knowing what she is. The smut was hot and the plot was interesting. It was a great mystery with good spice. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 5, 2023
Dark and Tentacle-tastic
Viktoria is a ‘paranormal investigator’ - whatever that means - all she knows is that she isn’t normal. Harrow owns a bookstore with some paranormal books - he’s also possessed by an incubus (Ash) and a kraken demon (Beez). When she breaks in to look at the special book, Harrow catches her and backs a deep with her - which results in some interesting negotiations. I loved how dark and deviant this book got between this foursome, and the battle royal was gritty and good. The ending dangles more goodness (and darkness) to come - terribly exciting!
April 22, 2023
Started and finished this morning. Romance and sexy times. Suspense and action. Worst part was that it ended and now I’ve gotta wait for the next in the series.
April 25, 2023
Wonderful, as expected.
Cari Silverwood never fails to delight me with her imagination, wordplay and filthy deeds. I love reading her books. What an imagination!
Cari Silverwood never fails to delight me with her imagination, wordplay and filthy deeds. I love reading her books. What an imagination!
May 31, 2024
I absolutely loved this book; the world Cari has created was amazing. At first, I thought the idea of a RH where the love interests were technically one person was going to be a conundrum. But Cari found a way and it works surprisingly well. I loved Victoria and her snarky personality, never one to keep her mouth shut, even when she should. As soon as she meets Harrow, her spidey senses tell her there’s something not quite right, but I’m sure she never anticipated what would follow after she broke into his shop. While her relationship with Harrow, Ash and Beez is full of carnal, erotic scenes, there are some parts that skirted the edge of consent. While all three men (or is it monsters?) had their appeal, Ash was perhaps my favorite. I loved the way he wanted to be more human after being with Harrow for so long and he ultimately proved to be a true friend at the end. Harrow, on the other hand, seemed a bit self-serving at times, while Beez was apparently the strong, silent type. I loved the magic of this world with creatures from dreams, sorrows and nightmares, the mystery of trying to discover exactly who (or what) Victoria is (still to be determined) and the hunt for the mysterious Bride Collector. It all just came together perfectly.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 27, 2023
It's more 🔥💦💦 than plot for my cup of tea but if that's your thing you'll love this. Cari is very imaginative with the story and keeps the plot interesting. Despite it being not quite what I expected, it was still fascinating enough for me to read through. Found the 💦💦 moments to be out of place at times. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 27, 2023
One of my favourite books by Cari Silverwood is Nightmare Rising, co-written with Nicolette Hugo. The first chapter is still one of my all time favourites. There is kind of a warped beauty in the way the brutality is portrayed. I felt my body trying to fold in on its self to protect me from the imagined damage that she had created. She’s so good at dragging you into her worlds.
Couldn’t wait for the second book only to find out there would be none. You hope maybe one day. You move on. Then Hallelujah, she has decided to write a prequel and you prepare yourself for the ride.
Though not as dark as Nightmare Rising this is still a crazy ride with plenty of monsters. I still found myself trying to fold my body in on its self, but this time it had more to do with kinky tentacle sex scenes than violence.
There’s still some pretty violent scenes. The villain, Dareious, is brutal, vicious, and uncaring and will do anything to achieve his goal.
Thank goodness for our group of heroes. They definitely balance the darkness. There’s Victoria, a paranormal hunter, seeker, who may have super powers and her supernatural cat Lump. She’s been hired to determine if a woman’s fiancé might be a possessed murderer. During her investigation she encounters Harrow, a bookstore owner that is possessed by an incubus, Ashcadel, a kraken, Beez and has a special connection to the kinder, gentler monsters that inhabit our world.
They all come together,along with a colourful supporting cast to hunt a serial killer and maybe save the world.
Mysteries are solved, demons are banished, epic battles are fought and there’s still time for lots of kinky, smutty, tentacle, incubus, supernatural human sex. You think how’s all that going to work, where is all going to fit, but it works. It works really well.
The ending is satisfying and sets up the rest of the series. Our kinky, supernatural group finds a way to make it all work, tentacles and all. Loved and am so glad I got to visit this world again.
Couldn’t wait for the second book only to find out there would be none. You hope maybe one day. You move on. Then Hallelujah, she has decided to write a prequel and you prepare yourself for the ride.
Though not as dark as Nightmare Rising this is still a crazy ride with plenty of monsters. I still found myself trying to fold my body in on its self, but this time it had more to do with kinky tentacle sex scenes than violence.
There’s still some pretty violent scenes. The villain, Dareious, is brutal, vicious, and uncaring and will do anything to achieve his goal.
Thank goodness for our group of heroes. They definitely balance the darkness. There’s Victoria, a paranormal hunter, seeker, who may have super powers and her supernatural cat Lump. She’s been hired to determine if a woman’s fiancé might be a possessed murderer. During her investigation she encounters Harrow, a bookstore owner that is possessed by an incubus, Ashcadel, a kraken, Beez and has a special connection to the kinder, gentler monsters that inhabit our world.
They all come together,along with a colourful supporting cast to hunt a serial killer and maybe save the world.
Mysteries are solved, demons are banished, epic battles are fought and there’s still time for lots of kinky, smutty, tentacle, incubus, supernatural human sex. You think how’s all that going to work, where is all going to fit, but it works. It works really well.
The ending is satisfying and sets up the rest of the series. Our kinky, supernatural group finds a way to make it all work, tentacles and all. Loved and am so glad I got to visit this world again.
November 9, 2023
I find Viktoria Bren paranormal investigator and her demon cat delightful and fascinating. They are investigating the mysterious muders of young brides to be. Harrow MacNiel, book store owner is very interesting, he’s possessed by Ashcadel a snarky incubus and Zark a surprise I loved. Viktoria needs a book Harrow won’t sell, she can’t steal the book but she can break into store at night and read what she needs. I love her and the interactions between her, Harrow and Ashcadel are amazing fun. Action packed, funny and exciting with dangerous characters, attempted kidnapping, great battle and many surprises. Happy ever after
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 21, 2023
I absolutely loved reading this 1st book in a new series by Cari. I've read several of her stories and I tell you it's never a dull moment. This book literally had me flipping pages to find out what happened on the next page and believe me there was plenty of thing's going on. This book had me laughing and fanning myself all while trying to solve random bride "suicide's". Gotta love Ash though and Beez and let's throw in Harrow to. There’s many question's this book left open that I'm hoping Bk 2 can answer.
March 18, 2023
No trigger warning
This story is written from the points of view of the MFC, MMC and the Villain. Unfortunately when we read from the Villain we get to "see" him r@pe a woman. Later on in the story the MFC is r@ped by the villain and it is told through her perspective, it is not behind closed doors. In fact the assault is written the same as the sex scenes between the MFC and her lovers I did not see a trigger warning anywhere in the book so I was completely caught off guard. Due to this I brought the rating from a 4/5 to a 3/5.
This story is written from the points of view of the MFC, MMC and the Villain. Unfortunately when we read from the Villain we get to "see" him r@pe a woman. Later on in the story the MFC is r@ped by the villain and it is told through her perspective, it is not behind closed doors. In fact the assault is written the same as the sex scenes between the MFC and her lovers I did not see a trigger warning anywhere in the book so I was completely caught off guard. Due to this I brought the rating from a 4/5 to a 3/5.
July 29, 2023
I thought this was a totally unique read full of the paranormal , superb description with plenty of deviant steaminess , a great blend of plot and spice with so much fun alongside this, but definitely an x rated read, not for anyone under 18, but if you love monster romance and spice you’ll love this
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 9, 2023
WARNING! WARNING!
Throwing this out there. I’m all about the more trigger warnings the better, but this book completely took me off guard. The heroine get raped by the villain of the book (Spoiler), and like it doesn’t like fade to black for it or anything.
The villain is also described as tall and balding, so not a lie, I had terrible visions of of that, and that’s not why I read smut. Weird monster sex, that cool, the heroine is having fun. Non-con with the hot antihero of the book, that’s cool too. Violation by a tall balding man which gave me nightmares for a few nights? Not so cool.
I probably at first would have rated this 3-4⭐️, but me having that visual in my head for a few days after finishing the book diminished some of the things I enjoyed about it. I don’t really watch tv, so I literally had to read another book to get that picture out of my head.
Throwing this out there. I’m all about the more trigger warnings the better, but this book completely took me off guard. The heroine get raped by the villain of the book (Spoiler), and like it doesn’t like fade to black for it or anything.
The villain is also described as tall and balding, so not a lie, I had terrible visions of of that, and that’s not why I read smut. Weird monster sex, that cool, the heroine is having fun. Non-con with the hot antihero of the book, that’s cool too. Violation by a tall balding man which gave me nightmares for a few nights? Not so cool.
I probably at first would have rated this 3-4⭐️, but me having that visual in my head for a few days after finishing the book diminished some of the things I enjoyed about it. I don’t really watch tv, so I literally had to read another book to get that picture out of my head.
April 25, 2023
This book needs editing so badly that I had a difficult time finishing it. Throughout the book I had to stop and reread sentences to figure out the intended meaning.
September 20, 2023
That was AWESOME!!!
Ok. Book one has been a treat. It was dark and dangerous. Steamy and sweet. It was the best of all worlds. I thoroughly enjoyed this book!
Ok. Book one has been a treat. It was dark and dangerous. Steamy and sweet. It was the best of all worlds. I thoroughly enjoyed this book!
March 18, 2023
Brief Summary
This is an absolute delight for those who enjoy their romance with a slightly monstrous edge. Tentacle lovers are welcome here. Viktoria is an enigma, seemingly human but with inhuman abilities, including being able to see paranormal creatures. This brings her to the notice of Harrow, a once but no longer human, and his two demon companions: an incubus and a Kraken. Worse still it grabs the attention of a truly evil, deranged immortal who is experimenting on soon-to-be brides in the hope of producing Nightmare creatures.
Themes and Trigger Warnings
The main theme is good v evil, unless kinky and slightly depraved sex is also a theme. The book also contains a non-consensual scene (not one involving the heroes of the piece though).
Star Rating
4 Stars. My attention was easily held throughout this well-written steamy PNR/mystery romp.
The Characters
Whilst I liked all the main characters in the story, Ash was my favourite. He is an incubus with a soft heart and if he had a soul it would be a kind one. His touchy-feely nature was the perfect balance to Harrow’s ingrained aloofness.
Viktoria was fearless, perhaps at times rushing in where angels fear to tread. (Perhaps I should check that one out with Meg and her companion.) With her strange ability to see things most can’t, a companion cat with mysterious powers, an insatiable curiosity and a strong sense of justice it’s no wonder she soon finds herself in hot water with Harrow.
Speaking of Harrow, what is there not to love about a mysterious and somewhat broody man who makes you the centre of his universe? Even if he does strip you down and tie you up to do so. This man is sexy with a capital SSSSSSS! And also a little bit wicked, particularly when he encourages the multi-tentaculared Beez out to play… and spread-eagle…and pinion…and stuff full all available orifices.
The Plot
The plot is fast-paced, twisty, edged with darkness, peppered with small touches of humour, and if you’ve not already gathered, it is scorching hot too. There is a mystery to solve, Scooby-Doo, which adds extra texture to the book and enhances the romance element. It’s a ménage kink-fantasy with a smorgasbord of tentacular fun and frolics.
The Writing & World Building
The author has a warm and distinct writing voice with a quirkiness that I find very refreshing. This has a real-world setting and I loved visiting Whitby and the North Yorkshire coast with Vik, Harrow and Ash. Whilst the book could be read as a standalone, there are a couple of unanswered questions and loose threads that no doubt will be part of future books in the series.
This is an absolute delight for those who enjoy their romance with a slightly monstrous edge. Tentacle lovers are welcome here. Viktoria is an enigma, seemingly human but with inhuman abilities, including being able to see paranormal creatures. This brings her to the notice of Harrow, a once but no longer human, and his two demon companions: an incubus and a Kraken. Worse still it grabs the attention of a truly evil, deranged immortal who is experimenting on soon-to-be brides in the hope of producing Nightmare creatures.
Themes and Trigger Warnings
The main theme is good v evil, unless kinky and slightly depraved sex is also a theme. The book also contains a non-consensual scene (not one involving the heroes of the piece though).
Star Rating
4 Stars. My attention was easily held throughout this well-written steamy PNR/mystery romp.
The Characters
Whilst I liked all the main characters in the story, Ash was my favourite. He is an incubus with a soft heart and if he had a soul it would be a kind one. His touchy-feely nature was the perfect balance to Harrow’s ingrained aloofness.
Viktoria was fearless, perhaps at times rushing in where angels fear to tread. (Perhaps I should check that one out with Meg and her companion.) With her strange ability to see things most can’t, a companion cat with mysterious powers, an insatiable curiosity and a strong sense of justice it’s no wonder she soon finds herself in hot water with Harrow.
Speaking of Harrow, what is there not to love about a mysterious and somewhat broody man who makes you the centre of his universe? Even if he does strip you down and tie you up to do so. This man is sexy with a capital SSSSSSS! And also a little bit wicked, particularly when he encourages the multi-tentaculared Beez out to play… and spread-eagle…and pinion…and stuff full all available orifices.
The Plot
The plot is fast-paced, twisty, edged with darkness, peppered with small touches of humour, and if you’ve not already gathered, it is scorching hot too. There is a mystery to solve, Scooby-Doo, which adds extra texture to the book and enhances the romance element. It’s a ménage kink-fantasy with a smorgasbord of tentacular fun and frolics.
The Writing & World Building
The author has a warm and distinct writing voice with a quirkiness that I find very refreshing. This has a real-world setting and I loved visiting Whitby and the North Yorkshire coast with Vik, Harrow and Ash. Whilst the book could be read as a standalone, there are a couple of unanswered questions and loose threads that no doubt will be part of future books in the series.
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