What do you think?
Rate this book
Without You #1
Hunted
Amira:
I’m so tired.
It’s the only emotion I feel anymore, or it was until I found what my father was hiding deep in his closet.
The letters changed everything.
The inescapable fog constantly surrounding my mind has cleared and now there isn’t anything stopping me from digging further into the truth.
The truth to why she left. Why she abandoned me to this life with monsters surrounding every corner.
My plan was slow forming, but everything clicked into place when he stepped into my life again.
He may have made reaching my goal easier, but my heart?
It wasn’t ready for Roman Marcello.
Roman:
Life behind bars wasn’t hard.
Did it have its challenges? F**k yeah, but life was full of those before prison. After serving three consecutive years, I’m out and am ready to start my life somewhere far from home. But I have some things to take care of before that happens.
I step back into my old life, ready to walk right out when my past comes snapping in my face, but when I’m offered a chance to get what I really want, the opportunity to see her again, my plan changes. Now all that matters is her.
My angel.
My Amira.
I’m so tired.
It’s the only emotion I feel anymore, or it was until I found what my father was hiding deep in his closet.
The letters changed everything.
The inescapable fog constantly surrounding my mind has cleared and now there isn’t anything stopping me from digging further into the truth.
The truth to why she left. Why she abandoned me to this life with monsters surrounding every corner.
My plan was slow forming, but everything clicked into place when he stepped into my life again.
He may have made reaching my goal easier, but my heart?
It wasn’t ready for Roman Marcello.
Roman:
Life behind bars wasn’t hard.
Did it have its challenges? F**k yeah, but life was full of those before prison. After serving three consecutive years, I’m out and am ready to start my life somewhere far from home. But I have some things to take care of before that happens.
I step back into my old life, ready to walk right out when my past comes snapping in my face, but when I’m offered a chance to get what I really want, the opportunity to see her again, my plan changes. Now all that matters is her.
My angel.
My Amira.
419 pages, Hardcover
Published October 13, 2021
36 people are currently reading
629 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews
January 3, 2024
MY REVIEW AND OTHERS can also be found on my blog: ╰┈➤KITTY KATS CRAZY ABOUT BOOKS
❀ 𝐇𝐔𝐍𝐓𝐄𝐃 ❀ Is the first full length dark book within the (Without You) series by new to me author C.A. Mariah.
First book of the year baby!! First review written!!
Soooo after seeing this pop up on my GR feed a time or two on here I took that plunge and dived in..The beginning took a wee bit to connect with, a bit cloudy, but it still managed to pique my interest enough to carry on and I'm glad I did. About halfway ish things start coming together as we piece what story is unfolding in front of us.
Well let me tell you, this story had my jaw dropping to the ground. 💣💣💣 were dropped one after the other leaving me flabbergasted in their wake. Just when you think you've got a handle on things and even though it's forbidden as all hell, you carry on until another bomb is dropped leaving me wondering are things going to get worse before they get better?
This was a clusterf💣ck of epic proportions. It's dark, it's gritty, it's emotional, it's all consuming. Here's the thing though, the blurb does not give anything away, it's vague, and a word of warning heed the authors warnings, this is a dark book, it'll push your limits, your boundaries, it's not for the faint of heart. And it won't leave you with the warm fuzzies fluttering around in your belly. But if like me you don't have limits enjoy this sick wee ride the author sets you on.
Amira has gone through the unthinkable for the last three years, secluded away from prying neighbours and surrounded by woodland, nobody can hear her screams of terror. 𝘽𝙖𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜𝙨 𝙝𝙖𝙥𝙥𝙚𝙣 𝙞𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙙𝙖𝙧𝙠. 𝙔𝙤𝙪 𝙣𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧 𝙠𝙣𝙤𝙬 𝙬𝙝𝙤'𝙨 𝙡𝙪𝙧𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙜, 𝙬𝙖𝙞𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙤 𝙜𝙧𝙖𝙗 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙬𝙝𝙚𝙣 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙘𝙖𝙣 𝙣𝙤 𝙡𝙤𝙣𝙜𝙚𝙧 𝙨𝙚𝙚. 𝙄'𝙙 𝙗𝙚 𝙖 𝙛𝙤𝙤𝙡 𝙣𝙤𝙩 𝙩𝙤 𝙛𝙚𝙖𝙧 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙙𝙖𝙧𝙠.'Abused daily, she's barely holding on by a thread, until her childhood crush (Roman) and his best friend (Ash) come into town, her saviours. Roman picks up straight away that things aren't right and tells her to meet him in their secret place in the woods where they used to meet so many years ago.
A game a group of sick sadistic men made up a game of sorts, the first Friday of every month, late at night, they went hunting in the woods surrounding her house, she had 5 minutes to run as fast as she could, once Amira's five minutes were up, the hunt was on..
Roman has recently been released from prison for murder which scandalized the whole town.
Finding letters hidden in her father's closest addressed to her she has one destination in mind and that's to seek all the answers to her questions.
November 27, 2023
What I finished reading is absolutely mindf**k.
It’s dark and the same time sad!
It’s worth the reading.
It’s dark and the same time sad!
It’s worth the reading.
August 14, 2021
Dark, twisted, and intense.
I love my dark romance very dark, and this Is what I got. Before I review this, please read the trigger warnings and take them seriously. There are some heavy triggers in this book. It is not for the faint of heart. On my dark scale, it’s dark gray to black. I was happy to see a twist of taboo, Kudos on that aspect.
The book starts with The idea of learning the truth of her life for the last three years. Now a plan has been formed. She is just doing what she has to do day by day to survive. The nightmare she had to endure sent me over the edge; I kept telling myself their day will come.
Roman is released from jail to return to his hometown to see the one person who matters to him, Amira. He brings his friend Ash with him. Ash is going to be a fan favorite; you can't help but love both of them.
The love is still there between the two. However, they are not the same people years before—both hiding secrets and not ready to say their truth.
I enjoyed reading this book; it is raw and emotional. It's a promising debut novel. I did like the open ending for future books in the series. I do recommend Hunted to my fellow dark romance readers. My concern is some inconsistencies. Not a lot, but some for me to notice. Other than that, I would have given five stars.
April 13, 2023
Triple D ➡️➡️➡️ dark, depraved and disturbing.
August 27, 2021
Ok so I’ve waited days to write my review hoping that the words to explain how much I enjoyed this story would come to me and I’m still left speechless so I’m just going to leave this short and to the point GO BUY THIS BOOK! I’m telling you if you are looking for a well written emotionally driven dark taboo romance than this is for you . Man the emotions the pain the heartache these characters go through it left me breathless at times I just can’t believe this is this authors debut when you read it it doesn’t read like it’s from a first time author it’s so well written the writing is phenomenal I just can’t recommend this story enough but I warn you it’s going to hurt and you need to check the trigger warnings before diving in because this book is full of them . It’s not a steamy romance there’s too much pain and trauma for that but the connection the two main characters have is so intense their chemistry is palpable it’s sweet it’s powerful these two were definitely made for each other and no one will come between them no amount of time can dampen their connection so buckle up and enjoy this dark twisted and very taboo tale you won’t be disappointed!
August 21, 2021
3.75 stars
Mixed feelings
An emotionally wrenching read. Amira seemingly abandoned by her mother and left in the hells that was the hands of an obsessive, controlling and depraved father (and others) faced years of harrowing abuse. Her childhood sweetheart Roman, now free after a three-year stint in jail and released for good behavior, returns to his home town -- their home town, with best friend Ash. The story gradually unfolds uncovering the tragedy of their past and the horrific and interlinked events that changed them, with some of the whys answered. At the same time, it is a love story too as Amira and Roman, two fated loves, reconnect and rekindle their feelings.
This book was written with a level of maturity that I made me question if it this was the author's first work, and if it was, what skill in expressing depth of feeling! With a virtual pen, the character development was rich, the characters, vibrant; and the story cast shadows, a tenebrous cloud with just enough light to be hopeful enough in a happy outcome. Scenes in the story were mentally picturesque, well-written to actually feel them.
At the same time it's with mixed feelings that I found the story too much of a slow burn, too little progressive. Every single day seemed to be recounted, the abuse re-enactments to the extent it felt either gratuitous macabre or repetitive. (To be clear, there were fade to black scenes.) There were simply so many flashbacks. Also, the lack of forthrightness in the two main characters' communication was frustrating, rather than angst-inducing -- and the book had quite a bit of natural angst. While I was empathetic to the trauma, the reluctant candor seemed misplaced, especially while the abuse was liberally displayed. These hindered some of the natural progression of the plot, at least for me.
On a steam level, I would not consider this story spicy, rather it depicted emotional, spiritual connectedness that felt appropriate.
Overall, a great read with some twists, unanticipated. Again, very polished and mature with a happy ending that felt well-earned, welcome, and cathartic.
Mixed feelings
An emotionally wrenching read. Amira seemingly abandoned by her mother and left in the hells that was the hands of an obsessive, controlling and depraved father (and others) faced years of harrowing abuse. Her childhood sweetheart Roman, now free after a three-year stint in jail and released for good behavior, returns to his home town -- their home town, with best friend Ash. The story gradually unfolds uncovering the tragedy of their past and the horrific and interlinked events that changed them, with some of the whys answered. At the same time, it is a love story too as Amira and Roman, two fated loves, reconnect and rekindle their feelings.
This book was written with a level of maturity that I made me question if it this was the author's first work, and if it was, what skill in expressing depth of feeling! With a virtual pen, the character development was rich, the characters, vibrant; and the story cast shadows, a tenebrous cloud with just enough light to be hopeful enough in a happy outcome. Scenes in the story were mentally picturesque, well-written to actually feel them.
At the same time it's with mixed feelings that I found the story too much of a slow burn, too little progressive. Every single day seemed to be recounted, the abuse re-enactments to the extent it felt either gratuitous macabre or repetitive. (To be clear, there were fade to black scenes.) There were simply so many flashbacks. Also, the lack of forthrightness in the two main characters' communication was frustrating, rather than angst-inducing -- and the book had quite a bit of natural angst. While I was empathetic to the trauma, the reluctant candor seemed misplaced, especially while the abuse was liberally displayed. These hindered some of the natural progression of the plot, at least for me.
On a steam level, I would not consider this story spicy, rather it depicted emotional, spiritual connectedness that felt appropriate.
Overall, a great read with some twists, unanticipated. Again, very polished and mature with a happy ending that felt well-earned, welcome, and cathartic.
August 23, 2021
~4 stars~
I was craving a dark and twisty book, and this one definitely delivered. This book is not for the faint of heart. It is very heavy and there are scenes of graphic abuse that are hard to stomach. However, if you’re into dark romances then you’ll probably enjoy this one. I read the whole book in one sitting. I was captivated by the story and characters, and I was dying to find out what happened with each chapter.
There was only one huge issue for me, and it’s the reason I gave it 4 stars rather than 5. There were NO sex scenes between the MCs Amira and Roman. And while I’m not really into erotica and don’t need the entire story to revolve around sex, it’s still a super important part of romance books for me. What makes this issue particularly odd is that this definitely wasn’t a “safe” book. There were sex scenes between Amira and her abusers, just not between the two MCs. AND, there was plenty of sexual tension between the two - descriptive scenes showing how badly they wanted each other etc., throughout the story. I could understand if the reason was because Amira wasn’t interested after all she had suffered, but she kept thinking about how badly she wanted him - and vice versa. You have two people who have been in love with each other for years. One of them had been locked up and abstinent most of that time, both were been pining for each other. It just doesn’t make sense. There was all this build up and tension, and then all of a sudden it fizzled.
The ending was HFN. Not a cliffie, but open ended enough that there could possibly be a continuation. I probably would have been bothered less by the lack of sex if I knew there would be another book, but since I don’t then it just left be feeling a bit dissatisfied. On a slightly different note, there was a major bomb dropped toward the end of the story and I’d love a second book to see how these two navigate their relationship after this huge twist.
Despite it being left a bit more open ended than I’d prefer, I would still recommend this book and will definitely keep an eye on this new author.
I was craving a dark and twisty book, and this one definitely delivered. This book is not for the faint of heart. It is very heavy and there are scenes of graphic abuse that are hard to stomach. However, if you’re into dark romances then you’ll probably enjoy this one. I read the whole book in one sitting. I was captivated by the story and characters, and I was dying to find out what happened with each chapter.
There was only one huge issue for me, and it’s the reason I gave it 4 stars rather than 5. There were NO sex scenes between the MCs Amira and Roman. And while I’m not really into erotica and don’t need the entire story to revolve around sex, it’s still a super important part of romance books for me. What makes this issue particularly odd is that this definitely wasn’t a “safe” book. There were sex scenes between Amira and her abusers, just not between the two MCs. AND, there was plenty of sexual tension between the two - descriptive scenes showing how badly they wanted each other etc., throughout the story. I could understand if the reason was because Amira wasn’t interested after all she had suffered, but she kept thinking about how badly she wanted him - and vice versa. You have two people who have been in love with each other for years. One of them had been locked up and abstinent most of that time, both were been pining for each other. It just doesn’t make sense. There was all this build up and tension, and then all of a sudden it fizzled.
The ending was HFN. Not a cliffie, but open ended enough that there could possibly be a continuation. I probably would have been bothered less by the lack of sex if I knew there would be another book, but since I don’t then it just left be feeling a bit dissatisfied. On a slightly different note, there was a major bomb dropped toward the end of the story and I’d love a second book to see how these two navigate their relationship after this huge twist.
Despite it being left a bit more open ended than I’d prefer, I would still recommend this book and will definitely keep an eye on this new author.
May 24, 2021
An Emotionally Raw Debut
5 stars!
“You shouldn’t throw stones at glass houses, Roman, especially when you yourself are made of fragile glass.”
How do you keep a review short and simple when the characters and the story is anything but? I was given the most absolute pleasure of being the first to read this debut, and I’m trying to find the perfect words to say without spoiling.
Hunted is an emotionally driven story with dark and taboo themes played into it. I got so incredibly involved with these characters' lives, I felt like I could feel their pain and anger and heartbreak. Hunted has got a few undisclosed tropes that readers will absolutely love, but with a twist.
You meet our three main characters: Roman, a man who's haunted by his demons; Ash, Roman’s best friend and someone who struggles with his own guilt from his past; and Amira, Roman’s girl, his angel, a girl who wants to be free from her monsters.
This story takes you on a journey. One with twists and discoveries, with unspeakable things being revealed. This book, don’t take those triggers lightly. Everything in this book is raw and real. It’s a love story that shows no bounds. It’s not your typical romance or even dark romance either. It’s about perspective. Hunted got me out of my book slump and then put me right back into when I finished. I could not stop reading, and I don’t think any of you will be able to either. I highly recommend Hunted for those who like the dark, the dangerous, the forbidden and the suspense.
5 stars!
“You shouldn’t throw stones at glass houses, Roman, especially when you yourself are made of fragile glass.”
How do you keep a review short and simple when the characters and the story is anything but? I was given the most absolute pleasure of being the first to read this debut, and I’m trying to find the perfect words to say without spoiling.
Hunted is an emotionally driven story with dark and taboo themes played into it. I got so incredibly involved with these characters' lives, I felt like I could feel their pain and anger and heartbreak. Hunted has got a few undisclosed tropes that readers will absolutely love, but with a twist.
You meet our three main characters: Roman, a man who's haunted by his demons; Ash, Roman’s best friend and someone who struggles with his own guilt from his past; and Amira, Roman’s girl, his angel, a girl who wants to be free from her monsters.
This story takes you on a journey. One with twists and discoveries, with unspeakable things being revealed. This book, don’t take those triggers lightly. Everything in this book is raw and real. It’s a love story that shows no bounds. It’s not your typical romance or even dark romance either. It’s about perspective. Hunted got me out of my book slump and then put me right back into when I finished. I could not stop reading, and I don’t think any of you will be able to either. I highly recommend Hunted for those who like the dark, the dangerous, the forbidden and the suspense.
September 19, 2021
This book was great debut!
I purposefully avoided teasers and went in practically blind and I’m so glad I did that.
This book surprised me in the best possible way.
I don’t want to say too much because I really think it’s best to just dive in and experience this book.
It’s emotionally heavy and intense, dealing with some pretty dark themes so definitely mind your triggers. But underneath all that darkness there’s raw and pure soul deep love between main characters.
They both have been through a lot, especially Amira, and I absolutely loved how their hearts managed to stay pure and inocent despite everything that happened to them. They were just so adorable and I hope we will read more about them in the future.
As a debut, this book was really well written. I was hooked from the first page and became really invested in characters and their story.
There were parts in the middle where I felt like the story and characters stagnated for a bit. It was slow burn and lack of open communication between characters became frustrating and too drawn out.
But the story picked up again in the second half and I basically devoured it.
It’s one of the best written debuts I’ve read this year and I look forward to read more from this author.
I purposefully avoided teasers and went in practically blind and I’m so glad I did that.
This book surprised me in the best possible way.
I don’t want to say too much because I really think it’s best to just dive in and experience this book.
It’s emotionally heavy and intense, dealing with some pretty dark themes so definitely mind your triggers. But underneath all that darkness there’s raw and pure soul deep love between main characters.
They both have been through a lot, especially Amira, and I absolutely loved how their hearts managed to stay pure and inocent despite everything that happened to them. They were just so adorable and I hope we will read more about them in the future.
As a debut, this book was really well written. I was hooked from the first page and became really invested in characters and their story.
There were parts in the middle where I felt like the story and characters stagnated for a bit. It was slow burn and lack of open communication between characters became frustrating and too drawn out.
But the story picked up again in the second half and I basically devoured it.
It’s one of the best written debuts I’ve read this year and I look forward to read more from this author.
August 20, 2021
Oh my god! This is C.A. Mariah’s debut??? It’s exceptionally written and does not read like a debut!
Hunted by C.A. Mariah is a dark, taboo romance with the ability to make you feel a multitude of emotions. Seriously, after reading this I was a mess. This is the heart wrenching story of Roman and Amira who are the definition of soulmates and Ash, Roman’s best friend.
These characters have been through so much. They are tortured, abused, isolated, broken, traumatized and haunted by the demons from their past.
Amira and Roman have such a deep soulful connection. Together they slowly heal each other and bring light into an otherwise dark world. Their love is all consuming, emotional, and intense. Roman and Ash have an amazing friendship and I couldn’t help but love his character!
Hunted is packed full of so many astonishing, unpredictable twists and turns. Not going to lie, it was a difficult book to read. It tugged at my heartstrings and I felt the pain of these characters.
C.A. Mariah has delivered an emotionally, mind blowing debut that captivates you from the first page to the very end. It’s a must read for dark romance lovers, but there are trigger warnings so reader discretion is advised.
Rating: 5/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Hunted by C.A. Mariah is a dark, taboo romance with the ability to make you feel a multitude of emotions. Seriously, after reading this I was a mess. This is the heart wrenching story of Roman and Amira who are the definition of soulmates and Ash, Roman’s best friend.
These characters have been through so much. They are tortured, abused, isolated, broken, traumatized and haunted by the demons from their past.
Amira and Roman have such a deep soulful connection. Together they slowly heal each other and bring light into an otherwise dark world. Their love is all consuming, emotional, and intense. Roman and Ash have an amazing friendship and I couldn’t help but love his character!
Hunted is packed full of so many astonishing, unpredictable twists and turns. Not going to lie, it was a difficult book to read. It tugged at my heartstrings and I felt the pain of these characters.
C.A. Mariah has delivered an emotionally, mind blowing debut that captivates you from the first page to the very end. It’s a must read for dark romance lovers, but there are trigger warnings so reader discretion is advised.
Rating: 5/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
August 29, 2021
I’m in absolute awe that this is C.A. Mariah’s debut. The angst, the heartbreak, the absolute turmoil within this novel is so well done. Her descriptions are excellent, making it easy for the reader to imagine everything.
You can’t say this with too many books, but I was hooked from the very beginning - hoping and praying that our Amira would find an escape.
The characters lack of communication can be a little frustrating at times, but it’s a good frustrating because it shows you how truly affected they are by what’s happened to them in the past.
There are dark plot twists throughout - with the big one (you’ll know it when you read it) leaving me heartbroken, tormented and absolutely speechless.
This book has a lot of triggers - so beware!
The only reason I haven’t given 5 stars is simply because at times, the book was slightly too dark for me, personally! But overall, I would definitely read it again, and cannot wait for book 2!!
You can’t say this with too many books, but I was hooked from the very beginning - hoping and praying that our Amira would find an escape.
The characters lack of communication can be a little frustrating at times, but it’s a good frustrating because it shows you how truly affected they are by what’s happened to them in the past.
There are dark plot twists throughout - with the big one (you’ll know it when you read it) leaving me heartbroken, tormented and absolutely speechless.
This book has a lot of triggers - so beware!
The only reason I haven’t given 5 stars is simply because at times, the book was slightly too dark for me, personally! But overall, I would definitely read it again, and cannot wait for book 2!!
August 27, 2021
Besties I finished this morning!
Hunted by @c.a_mariah
Please check TW
Sexual assault and rape are talked about
First off I am going to say that I loved this book so much! You killed this story the characters everything in this book. While reading this I felt like I was on a roller coaster! I felt so many different emotions at once while reading this.
Amira the only thing that I have felt since my mother's been gone is tired. I'm tired of living, I'm tired of feeling, just tired. Everything changed once I found what my father was hiding deep in his closet. The letters from her changed everything. I know what I need to do now, I need to know why she left me with him, why did she leave me, why!?
What I wasn't ready for is to see Roman, I was not ready for the feelings I had for him to come back!
Roman
Being being bars has changed me, I am a different person than I was before. I can't even look myself in the mirror anymore. Once I am out of jail I go back into my own life. What I really want is to see my angel again!
My plans change once I see her again
What happens when Amira leaves her home!? Is she going to find her mother?
#darkromance #darkromancebooks #darkromancereads #books #bookstagrammer #booksbooksbooks #bookreview
Hunted by @c.a_mariah
Please check TW
Sexual assault and rape are talked about
First off I am going to say that I loved this book so much! You killed this story the characters everything in this book. While reading this I felt like I was on a roller coaster! I felt so many different emotions at once while reading this.
Amira the only thing that I have felt since my mother's been gone is tired. I'm tired of living, I'm tired of feeling, just tired. Everything changed once I found what my father was hiding deep in his closet. The letters from her changed everything. I know what I need to do now, I need to know why she left me with him, why did she leave me, why!?
What I wasn't ready for is to see Roman, I was not ready for the feelings I had for him to come back!
Roman
Being being bars has changed me, I am a different person than I was before. I can't even look myself in the mirror anymore. Once I am out of jail I go back into my own life. What I really want is to see my angel again!
My plans change once I see her again
What happens when Amira leaves her home!? Is she going to find her mother?
#darkromance #darkromancebooks #darkromancereads #books #bookstagrammer #booksbooksbooks #bookreview
August 27, 2021
"There's freedom in knowing that you're broken but not damaged beyond repair.
Just like the tattoo gun.
Just like this mirror, I can be fixed.
Not perfect, but whole again."
~ C.A. Mariah
I don't even know where to begin with this review. I'm speechless. I honestly don't know what to say. I hated it, I loved it, I cried in it, I smiled in it, I put it down because it was too much, then I picked it back up because how can you not. For a debut author, C.A. Mariah is beyond her years. She doesn't write like a rookie new to this world, she writes with grit, truth, and without fear like that of an accomplished veteran in her chosen genre, dark romance. So before I go any further I have to applaud you!! Amazing, amazing job, on this book. You should be so PROUD!
Okay so on with the review.
I have never hated two characters so fast out of the gate as a reader as I did in this book. I still am seething over Liam and Gabrielle (Dad). I can't stand those two. They were disgusting and despicable human beings and I absolutely loathed them. Which was 100% intended obviously. I loved hating them, they were incredibly well written. They were sinister, awful and the cruelest of cruel.
Roman and Ash - God I loved these two boys. Brothers by choice not by blood, bonded by past mistakes and stories untold. They were truly two lost souls in this book. One haunted by memories of things gone wrong and circumstances that can never be changed, and the other, trying to get back to the one thing lost but never forgotten, HER.
* Please tell me Ash's story is coming? He NEEDS one! *
Amira - She is a HERO! Hands down one of the strongest female heroines I have ever read and I LOVED it! She is right up there with Jade from Amo Jones, Sicko. There's one line in the book where she says, "[t]he pain only proves that I'm alive." That gutted me. I don't know how someone goes through what she went through and still sees the good of living. She was an incredible lead.
This book is a 5 Star no doubt!
It took me on a ride. Quite literally too. Car rides from day to night, night to day, in-between stops at seedy motels to cute little dinners. Sporadic tattoo sessions and secrets, secrets, secrets. This book sunk its teeth in me and I was hooked. It was a road trip but it wasn't a road trip. It was running. Running away from the past, running away from demons, running away from death, running away from hell, and running towards ANSWERS!
It was incredibly written and I LOVED it.
Some of my favourite quotes:
"Bad things happen in the dark, Roman. You never know who's lurking, waiting to grab you when you can no longer see. I'd be a fool not to fear the dark."
"It's me and you, angel. You're the balance."
"It is sad, but that's life, right? Sometimes it's really fucking sad, and even things as beautiful as a rose can bleed."
"'Want to know why I like butterflies so much?' she whispers, peering up at me with big doe-eyes. 'Cause they're pretty?' I ask, watching her stare down at her freshly inked skin. 'Cause they're free.'"
Just like the tattoo gun.
Just like this mirror, I can be fixed.
Not perfect, but whole again."
~ C.A. Mariah
I don't even know where to begin with this review. I'm speechless. I honestly don't know what to say. I hated it, I loved it, I cried in it, I smiled in it, I put it down because it was too much, then I picked it back up because how can you not. For a debut author, C.A. Mariah is beyond her years. She doesn't write like a rookie new to this world, she writes with grit, truth, and without fear like that of an accomplished veteran in her chosen genre, dark romance. So before I go any further I have to applaud you!! Amazing, amazing job, on this book. You should be so PROUD!
Okay so on with the review.
I have never hated two characters so fast out of the gate as a reader as I did in this book. I still am seething over Liam and Gabrielle (Dad). I can't stand those two. They were disgusting and despicable human beings and I absolutely loathed them. Which was 100% intended obviously. I loved hating them, they were incredibly well written. They were sinister, awful and the cruelest of cruel.
Roman and Ash - God I loved these two boys. Brothers by choice not by blood, bonded by past mistakes and stories untold. They were truly two lost souls in this book. One haunted by memories of things gone wrong and circumstances that can never be changed, and the other, trying to get back to the one thing lost but never forgotten, HER.
* Please tell me Ash's story is coming? He NEEDS one! *
Amira - She is a HERO! Hands down one of the strongest female heroines I have ever read and I LOVED it! She is right up there with Jade from Amo Jones, Sicko. There's one line in the book where she says, "[t]he pain only proves that I'm alive." That gutted me. I don't know how someone goes through what she went through and still sees the good of living. She was an incredible lead.
This book is a 5 Star no doubt!
It took me on a ride. Quite literally too. Car rides from day to night, night to day, in-between stops at seedy motels to cute little dinners. Sporadic tattoo sessions and secrets, secrets, secrets. This book sunk its teeth in me and I was hooked. It was a road trip but it wasn't a road trip. It was running. Running away from the past, running away from demons, running away from death, running away from hell, and running towards ANSWERS!
It was incredibly written and I LOVED it.
Some of my favourite quotes:
"Bad things happen in the dark, Roman. You never know who's lurking, waiting to grab you when you can no longer see. I'd be a fool not to fear the dark."
"It's me and you, angel. You're the balance."
"It is sad, but that's life, right? Sometimes it's really fucking sad, and even things as beautiful as a rose can bleed."
"'Want to know why I like butterflies so much?' she whispers, peering up at me with big doe-eyes. 'Cause they're pretty?' I ask, watching her stare down at her freshly inked skin. 'Cause they're free.'"
July 7, 2023
Wow.....take the warnings seriously
First thing I will say, is take the warnings at the start seriously. You do need to prepare yourself for this book, I'm still not sure about some things myself.
That said, I really did like the book. It was written well and descriptive enough to paint a picture for you. My heart went out to everyone involved and what Amira went through? She has to be 9ne of the strongest FMCs I've read.
This is the start of a duet and the tragic, heartbreaking story of how Roman and Amira came to be. They each have their own story to tell and when the truth finally comes out, there are no words to describe how shocking it is.
They have a long road ahead of them
First thing I will say, is take the warnings at the start seriously. You do need to prepare yourself for this book, I'm still not sure about some things myself.
That said, I really did like the book. It was written well and descriptive enough to paint a picture for you. My heart went out to everyone involved and what Amira went through? She has to be 9ne of the strongest FMCs I've read.
This is the start of a duet and the tragic, heartbreaking story of how Roman and Amira came to be. They each have their own story to tell and when the truth finally comes out, there are no words to describe how shocking it is.
They have a long road ahead of them
August 30, 2021
Dark and twisted, raw and emotional are the perfect words to describe this debut novel by C.A. Mariah.
This book packs a powerful punch and the trigger warning is to be taken seriously. Some scenes were hard for me to digest and I admired Amira's strength to survive what she was going through.
I loved how Amira and Roman fit together like 2 pieces of a puzzle. The journey they go on to uncover secrets of their pasts and find themselves again brought a little light and positivity to the otherwise dark story.
I really enjoyed the writing and the secondary characters and I hope to read more by this author in the future.
I was gifted an arc of this book and this is my honest opinion!
This book packs a powerful punch and the trigger warning is to be taken seriously. Some scenes were hard for me to digest and I admired Amira's strength to survive what she was going through.
I loved how Amira and Roman fit together like 2 pieces of a puzzle. The journey they go on to uncover secrets of their pasts and find themselves again brought a little light and positivity to the otherwise dark story.
I really enjoyed the writing and the secondary characters and I hope to read more by this author in the future.
I was gifted an arc of this book and this is my honest opinion!
July 29, 2023
Chorei horrores... aliás, esse livro foi o culpado pela minha ressaca de 4 meses. Isso mesmo, 4 meses sem tocar em livro algum de tanto que os plots me marcaram.
Nem gosto de falar muito sobre ele... mas recomendo. Foi doloroso ler e, acho que meu erro foi ter lido com o coração. Sabe quando você mergulha muito em um livro? Esse livro é pesado demais para que você faça isso e saia intacta depois.
Mas não foi algo eterno, C A Mariah vai ficar em meu coração dark (ou pintch) durante muito tempo por esse debut fantástico!
Nem gosto de falar muito sobre ele... mas recomendo. Foi doloroso ler e, acho que meu erro foi ter lido com o coração. Sabe quando você mergulha muito em um livro? Esse livro é pesado demais para que você faça isso e saia intacta depois.
Mas não foi algo eterno, C A Mariah vai ficar em meu coração dark (ou pintch) durante muito tempo por esse debut fantástico!
Read
March 7, 2022Hmmm …..how do I rate this book , I’m so conflicted it’s either 3.6 or 4 .I will need to think about it ,but can I say the book cover is the best I own so far …look at it and see how beautifully hunting it is …whenever I take brake from the book the cover calls for me to carry on reading it !!!!
The story gave me “ mindfuck series” and whispers and roars by k.Webster” vibe.
The story gave me “ mindfuck series” and whispers and roars by k.Webster” vibe.
April 26, 2023
4.5 💫 a slower start to get the story out. But once it started it was heartbreaking. There are definite TW with this. Sexual assault. I fell in love with the H very early on and my feeling never faltered, he kept me swooning.
August 20, 2021
“Bad things happen in the dark, Roman. You never know who’s lurking, waiting to grab you when you can no longer see. I’d be a fool not to fear the dark.”
OUTSTANDING!!! I am utterly blow away after finishing this AMAZING story! Once I started there was no way I was putting it down – forget about adulting – I needed to know what was going to happen. I was consumed by Amira’s story from start to finish. It was dark, gritty, raw, insanely emotional and gut-wrenchingly tragic. She takes us on a journey down into a dark and depraved world where evil monsters lurk in the dark and prey on their victims.
This story kept me on the edge of my seat, biting my nails, with my heart ready to burst out of my chest. The writing was very impactful, emotionally charged, and very heavy. I felt all of Amira’s emotions and pain through every word written. The demons that continued to haunt her and hunt her everyday had me screaming and crying over their destruction of such a beautiful soul. As her truths slowly get revealed my tears would not stop falling!
Amira is such a strong and very resilient woman. The things she goes through would destroy most people but no matter what happens she pulls herself off the floor and keeps going. She knows deep down that things will get better if she keeps pushing herself forward. Her resiliency is what made me cry the hardest. “And though she be but little, she is fierce.”- Shakespeare
Roman and Ash are two men who are also battling demons from their pasts. But these two characters brought much needed light to this dark story. They had me laughing at their interactions and their banter. It was refreshing to see two men know right from the first look that Amira needed them and their protection. Both of them had me falling head over heels for them.
Brilliantly written story with dark, depraved and violent characters, and a storyline that is filled with secrets and twists that will gut you, blow your mind and shock you to your core.
This is not a story for the faint of heart as there are some very dark subjects that the author delves into but necessary for the impact that the story will have on you while reading it. It is definitely a heavy emotional read so be ready with lots of tissues.
OUTSTANDING!!! I am utterly blow away after finishing this AMAZING story! Once I started there was no way I was putting it down – forget about adulting – I needed to know what was going to happen. I was consumed by Amira’s story from start to finish. It was dark, gritty, raw, insanely emotional and gut-wrenchingly tragic. She takes us on a journey down into a dark and depraved world where evil monsters lurk in the dark and prey on their victims.
This story kept me on the edge of my seat, biting my nails, with my heart ready to burst out of my chest. The writing was very impactful, emotionally charged, and very heavy. I felt all of Amira’s emotions and pain through every word written. The demons that continued to haunt her and hunt her everyday had me screaming and crying over their destruction of such a beautiful soul. As her truths slowly get revealed my tears would not stop falling!
Amira is such a strong and very resilient woman. The things she goes through would destroy most people but no matter what happens she pulls herself off the floor and keeps going. She knows deep down that things will get better if she keeps pushing herself forward. Her resiliency is what made me cry the hardest. “And though she be but little, she is fierce.”- Shakespeare
Roman and Ash are two men who are also battling demons from their pasts. But these two characters brought much needed light to this dark story. They had me laughing at their interactions and their banter. It was refreshing to see two men know right from the first look that Amira needed them and their protection. Both of them had me falling head over heels for them.
Brilliantly written story with dark, depraved and violent characters, and a storyline that is filled with secrets and twists that will gut you, blow your mind and shock you to your core.
This is not a story for the faint of heart as there are some very dark subjects that the author delves into but necessary for the impact that the story will have on you while reading it. It is definitely a heavy emotional read so be ready with lots of tissues.
August 22, 2021
ONE THING IM GONNA SAY: GO IN BLIND.
That’s the only thing I’m gonna tell you! This book needs to be experienced properly!!
(But keep in mind the TWs!!)
Woah what a debut book.
I‘m speechless.
This book was dark.
Like dark dark.
It’s a dark romance that’s not for the faint of heart! There are lots of triggers so don’t take it lightly. It might be even tough to read for some. So Im warning you.
Sexual abuse is one of them.
Domestic violence .
Incest.
Murder.
Trauma.
And lots of blood.
It’s horrific and tragic and forbidden.
Hunted is a second chance romance but definitely a slow burn so you gotta be patient since Amira and Roman go through a lot of trauma. So it’s difficult for them to trust each other. There is still a lot of love between these two but also lots of internal struggles that made both of them change. Both needing time to adjust and open up to each other to reveal their secrets.
And there’s pain, so much pain. They deserve all the love and throughout the whole book I just wanted to help them and give them a hug.
Will they be able to help each other heal? Or will they make it worse?
“A butterfly perched on the head of a king cobra, something soft and delicate balancing out the sinister aura of the snake. “It’s me and you, angel. You’re the balance.”
ALSO THAT ENDING WAS CRAZY. I wanna read book 2 now😩 IM WARNING YOU. Be prepared if you wanna read this!!
Good thing I can tell you in the end?
Always give new authors a chance! I really enjoyed C.A Mariah’s debut book and I’m looking forward for more😍
It’s very well written and the words flow on the page like water.
That’s the only thing I’m gonna tell you! This book needs to be experienced properly!!
(But keep in mind the TWs!!)
Woah what a debut book.
I‘m speechless.
This book was dark.
Like dark dark.
It’s a dark romance that’s not for the faint of heart! There are lots of triggers so don’t take it lightly. It might be even tough to read for some. So Im warning you.
Sexual abuse is one of them.
Domestic violence .
Incest.
Murder.
Trauma.
And lots of blood.
It’s horrific and tragic and forbidden.
Hunted is a second chance romance but definitely a slow burn so you gotta be patient since Amira and Roman go through a lot of trauma. So it’s difficult for them to trust each other. There is still a lot of love between these two but also lots of internal struggles that made both of them change. Both needing time to adjust and open up to each other to reveal their secrets.
And there’s pain, so much pain. They deserve all the love and throughout the whole book I just wanted to help them and give them a hug.
Will they be able to help each other heal? Or will they make it worse?
“A butterfly perched on the head of a king cobra, something soft and delicate balancing out the sinister aura of the snake. “It’s me and you, angel. You’re the balance.”
ALSO THAT ENDING WAS CRAZY. I wanna read book 2 now😩 IM WARNING YOU. Be prepared if you wanna read this!!
Good thing I can tell you in the end?
Always give new authors a chance! I really enjoyed C.A Mariah’s debut book and I’m looking forward for more😍
It’s very well written and the words flow on the page like water.
August 23, 2021
Since this book was announced it has become my most anticipated obsession and C. Mariah has known that since then that she urgently needs to know her story, and since then I have fallen even more in love with all her work.
“Bad things happen in the dark, Roman. You never know who's lurking, waiting to grab you when you can no longer see. I’d be a fool not to fear the dark.”
Hunted's trajectory is full of emotion that tackles themes of abuse, violence and taboo. Making me even more involved with their characters, being able to feel all the pain, hate and heartbreak.
In this story we meet Amira a young woman who struggles to survive with her body and mind in order to get rid of the monsters that imprison her and have the answers she so desires. Roman on the other hand is a man who has his demons in his closet and fights every day not to be devoured by his past and along with them we also meet Ash, who is also at war with his past and is best friends with Roman.
Together they embark on a journey full of twists and turns and secrets begin to be revealed, giving them a second chance and learning to check each other out.
"She is still mine, and the love that shines through her burns me straight to the core, telling me that I'm still hers too."
An emotionally raw, realistic debut with boundless love, wonderful characters... there is so much you could say about this book, more you need to know as it is definitely an emotionally heavy and impactful read so prepare your heart. Bad can wait for the next one.
PS - Always give new authors a chance! I really enjoyed CA Mariah's debut book and I'm looking forward to more...
“Bad things happen in the dark, Roman. You never know who's lurking, waiting to grab you when you can no longer see. I’d be a fool not to fear the dark.”
Hunted's trajectory is full of emotion that tackles themes of abuse, violence and taboo. Making me even more involved with their characters, being able to feel all the pain, hate and heartbreak.
In this story we meet Amira a young woman who struggles to survive with her body and mind in order to get rid of the monsters that imprison her and have the answers she so desires. Roman on the other hand is a man who has his demons in his closet and fights every day not to be devoured by his past and along with them we also meet Ash, who is also at war with his past and is best friends with Roman.
Together they embark on a journey full of twists and turns and secrets begin to be revealed, giving them a second chance and learning to check each other out.
"She is still mine, and the love that shines through her burns me straight to the core, telling me that I'm still hers too."
An emotionally raw, realistic debut with boundless love, wonderful characters... there is so much you could say about this book, more you need to know as it is definitely an emotionally heavy and impactful read so prepare your heart. Bad can wait for the next one.
PS - Always give new authors a chance! I really enjoyed CA Mariah's debut book and I'm looking forward to more...
August 18, 2021
Wow, just wow. From the first page to the last you will be hooked, it's dark, it's taboo, it's a soul deep connection that fulls the dark romance lover in me.
This book explores some seriously dark desires, that are both horrific, taboo and full of blood lust.
Amira is trapped in an isolated world where she is systemically tortured and abused by her father and brother. It all started after her mother "died" 3 years ago and progressed to the darkness she is drowning in today. She longs to be free, to know the truth but is held captive by those who are meant to care for her whilst she battles demons that their treatment has created which deeply affect her mental state.
Roman is a tortured soul who has served the minus time of his jail sentence due to good behaviour, following those 3 years inside he has changed beyond recognition from a broken boy to a shattered man. He is driven by desire to see the only one he has ever loved with a dream to start a new life together.
Their reunion is painful, emotional and intense. There are so many secrets between Roman and Amira that they struggle to understand one another till the choices are taken out of their hands and the truth is forced on them.
Can they survive their own darkness without being destroyed by each others secrets. Will demons of the past break them? Will their loves be the ultimate price or will they be able to have the future of their dreams.
This is a dark, taboo and emotionally challenging romance. Their is pain in love, life and truth, this is an utterly amazing read and I need book 2 yesterday.
This book explores some seriously dark desires, that are both horrific, taboo and full of blood lust.
Amira is trapped in an isolated world where she is systemically tortured and abused by her father and brother. It all started after her mother "died" 3 years ago and progressed to the darkness she is drowning in today. She longs to be free, to know the truth but is held captive by those who are meant to care for her whilst she battles demons that their treatment has created which deeply affect her mental state.
Roman is a tortured soul who has served the minus time of his jail sentence due to good behaviour, following those 3 years inside he has changed beyond recognition from a broken boy to a shattered man. He is driven by desire to see the only one he has ever loved with a dream to start a new life together.
Their reunion is painful, emotional and intense. There are so many secrets between Roman and Amira that they struggle to understand one another till the choices are taken out of their hands and the truth is forced on them.
Can they survive their own darkness without being destroyed by each others secrets. Will demons of the past break them? Will their loves be the ultimate price or will they be able to have the future of their dreams.
This is a dark, taboo and emotionally challenging romance. Their is pain in love, life and truth, this is an utterly amazing read and I need book 2 yesterday.
October 17, 2021
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 stars for me.
“You can make something beautiful and everlasting out of broken parts, and as dumb as it may sounds, it gives me a tiny bit of hope.
Maybe my broken parts and Roman’s broken parts can become something beautiful too.”
This book left me emotionally raw.
I was left speechless. Utterly speechless. This book is emotionally driven, dark, and taboo. Filled with suspense and revelations. It consumed me, and I could not put it down.
Amira, Roman, and Ash have my heart completely. I have never wanted to protect such characters more than I did with them. They’re such broken, tortured and lost souls who are continuously haunted by their own demons. Despite the darkness, there are these slivers of light. The little moments of joy.
The adoration I have for Roman and Ash’s friendship is a breath of fresh air. The love between Amira and Roman is all consuming and boundless.
I was so overwhelmed and felt everything the characters went through. EVERYTHING. The multitude of emotions I went through while reading this, was just… I have no words honestly. It was like I was right there with them through their journey. This book was just genuinely real and emotional.
This is debut novel by C.A. Mariah but with the way she writes and tells a story, you would think she’s a seasoned author. Such rawness and grit.
The need for book two of this series is damning.
**Please pay heed to the trigger and content warnings. This book is not for the faint of heart.**
“You can make something beautiful and everlasting out of broken parts, and as dumb as it may sounds, it gives me a tiny bit of hope.
Maybe my broken parts and Roman’s broken parts can become something beautiful too.”
This book left me emotionally raw.
I was left speechless. Utterly speechless. This book is emotionally driven, dark, and taboo. Filled with suspense and revelations. It consumed me, and I could not put it down.
Amira, Roman, and Ash have my heart completely. I have never wanted to protect such characters more than I did with them. They’re such broken, tortured and lost souls who are continuously haunted by their own demons. Despite the darkness, there are these slivers of light. The little moments of joy.
The adoration I have for Roman and Ash’s friendship is a breath of fresh air. The love between Amira and Roman is all consuming and boundless.
I was so overwhelmed and felt everything the characters went through. EVERYTHING. The multitude of emotions I went through while reading this, was just… I have no words honestly. It was like I was right there with them through their journey. This book was just genuinely real and emotional.
This is debut novel by C.A. Mariah but with the way she writes and tells a story, you would think she’s a seasoned author. Such rawness and grit.
The need for book two of this series is damning.
**Please pay heed to the trigger and content warnings. This book is not for the faint of heart.**
August 12, 2021
🦋 ℋ𝓊𝓃𝓉ℯ𝒹 𝒷𝓎 𝒞.𝒜. ℳ𝒶𝓇𝒾𝒶𝒽 🦋
𝟺/⭐️
Trigger Warnings are pretty heavy in this one so if abuse/SA or really anything dark is triggering for you i’d skip this one.
this one was tough read. Roman and Amira - and even Ash - have all been through so much. Trauma. Death. Abuse. i connected with Roman a lot because i know what it’s like dealing with toxic parents who fight and are even physically abusive towards each other in front of their kids - i know how that can twist you and mess with your head and i wasn’t expecting to have that connection.
i loved watching Amira and Roman face all of their demons and try to come out stronger together, trying to help each other heal from things people shouldn’t have to heal from.
i also loved Roman and Ash’s relationship - caring, loving friendships in books just make me emo. i loved all the twists and turns i wasn’t expecting AT ALL, and that ending!! so wild.
i don’t want to say much more because this is a book i think you should go in just knowing the basic premises and enjoying the wild, emotional ride.
here’s your reminder to give new authors chances - you might just find something amazing
𝟺/⭐️
Trigger Warnings are pretty heavy in this one so if abuse/SA or really anything dark is triggering for you i’d skip this one.
this one was tough read. Roman and Amira - and even Ash - have all been through so much. Trauma. Death. Abuse. i connected with Roman a lot because i know what it’s like dealing with toxic parents who fight and are even physically abusive towards each other in front of their kids - i know how that can twist you and mess with your head and i wasn’t expecting to have that connection.
i loved watching Amira and Roman face all of their demons and try to come out stronger together, trying to help each other heal from things people shouldn’t have to heal from.
i also loved Roman and Ash’s relationship - caring, loving friendships in books just make me emo. i loved all the twists and turns i wasn’t expecting AT ALL, and that ending!! so wild.
i don’t want to say much more because this is a book i think you should go in just knowing the basic premises and enjoying the wild, emotional ride.
here’s your reminder to give new authors chances - you might just find something amazing
March 15, 2022
First I want to say that C.A. Mariah is a great writer. She knows how to capture the emotions in the subtle words all the way to the one liners that tend to rip her readers hearts out.
My reason behind a 4 star is only because this is one of the hardest books that I have read. Not in that it wasn't well written because it absolutely was captivating.
What I mean is that it was an extremly dark story, with the most twisted characters that I have come across. The storyline was devastating and heartbreaking. But with an ending that I didn't expect. I had to put this book down a few times because it was a little over whelming to read some of the things that the MFC was put through.
The entire way through I was hoping for a happy ending, and some well deserved justice for everyone. Lets just say the ending will make you scream out in agony for the characters, cry and make you wish that you could read faster to find out what happens.
Job well done girl, I'm going to be reading the sequel after this one. I have to know what Roman and Amira are up to after all the craziness of this one.
My reason behind a 4 star is only because this is one of the hardest books that I have read. Not in that it wasn't well written because it absolutely was captivating.
What I mean is that it was an extremly dark story, with the most twisted characters that I have come across. The storyline was devastating and heartbreaking. But with an ending that I didn't expect. I had to put this book down a few times because it was a little over whelming to read some of the things that the MFC was put through.
The entire way through I was hoping for a happy ending, and some well deserved justice for everyone. Lets just say the ending will make you scream out in agony for the characters, cry and make you wish that you could read faster to find out what happens.
Job well done girl, I'm going to be reading the sequel after this one. I have to know what Roman and Amira are up to after all the craziness of this one.
January 1, 2026
This was a hard read
And just to be clear: I wouldn’t even call this a dark romance, because the “romance” part barely shows up. It’s a dark story, absolutely — heavy, bleak, uncomfortable — but the relationship never lands with enough on-page chemistry to carry that label. We’re told there’s love. We’re shown… very little that makes it feel like a romance instead of survival-with-a-love-interest nearby.
Writing-wise, it’s solid. Emotionally, it’s draining without much payoff but it undeniably paves the way for the sequel.
Also: the POV choices. I don’t love books with a million perspectives to begin with, because it often reads like the author didn’t trust the story to stand on its own. Here it’s worse: random one-off POVs from characters who don’t matter and don’t come back. It doesn’t deepen the plot; it just interrupts it like an unnecessary pop-up ad.
That said, I’m reserving full judgment: I’ll see how the second book handles her healing process before I lock in a final opinion on the overall arc.
Bottom line: well-written, very dark, and more trauma-heavy story than “dark romance.”
And just to be clear: I wouldn’t even call this a dark romance, because the “romance” part barely shows up. It’s a dark story, absolutely — heavy, bleak, uncomfortable — but the relationship never lands with enough on-page chemistry to carry that label. We’re told there’s love. We’re shown… very little that makes it feel like a romance instead of survival-with-a-love-interest nearby.
Writing-wise, it’s solid. Emotionally, it’s draining without much payoff but it undeniably paves the way for the sequel.
Also: the POV choices. I don’t love books with a million perspectives to begin with, because it often reads like the author didn’t trust the story to stand on its own. Here it’s worse: random one-off POVs from characters who don’t matter and don’t come back. It doesn’t deepen the plot; it just interrupts it like an unnecessary pop-up ad.
That said, I’m reserving full judgment: I’ll see how the second book handles her healing process before I lock in a final opinion on the overall arc.
Bottom line: well-written, very dark, and more trauma-heavy story than “dark romance.”
August 14, 2021
There are stories that break your heart and there are stories like Hunted that crush your soul... It's dark, it's haunting, it's earth shattering and it's truly raw.
This is a story that tugged at my heartstrings, so hard. It's one that kept me utterly absorbed and even when it was so painful to read, there was no way of escaping the pull it had on me from the very beginning and throughout the whole journey full of darkness and sorrow but also a glimpse of light!
Roman, Amira and Ash found their way into my heart and they must be protected at all costs! They are all haunted by their own demons and needing escape from the torment they have endured. They are lost and hurt in different ways and find shelter from each other. I adore the friendship between Roman and Ash, almost as much as I adore the love Roman and Amira share.
When Roman steps into Amira's life once more, they slowly start to make each other whole again. They are each others hope in the darkness and each others salvation. And their love is the kind that utterly consumes you; it's special and it's something you feel deep not only in your heart but also in your soul!
The suspense had my heart racing and the twists left me absolutely shook. I felt so much with this book; I was either in tears or smiling because of these characters who managed to find small moments of joy in the middle of all the anguish. And just wow C. A Mariah truly delivered an ashtonishing and stunning debut!
"She is still mine, and the love that shines through her burns me straight to the core, telling me that I'm still hers too."
*I received this ARC from the author but the thoughts are completely my own.*
This is a story that tugged at my heartstrings, so hard. It's one that kept me utterly absorbed and even when it was so painful to read, there was no way of escaping the pull it had on me from the very beginning and throughout the whole journey full of darkness and sorrow but also a glimpse of light!
Roman, Amira and Ash found their way into my heart and they must be protected at all costs! They are all haunted by their own demons and needing escape from the torment they have endured. They are lost and hurt in different ways and find shelter from each other. I adore the friendship between Roman and Ash, almost as much as I adore the love Roman and Amira share.
When Roman steps into Amira's life once more, they slowly start to make each other whole again. They are each others hope in the darkness and each others salvation. And their love is the kind that utterly consumes you; it's special and it's something you feel deep not only in your heart but also in your soul!
The suspense had my heart racing and the twists left me absolutely shook. I felt so much with this book; I was either in tears or smiling because of these characters who managed to find small moments of joy in the middle of all the anguish. And just wow C. A Mariah truly delivered an ashtonishing and stunning debut!
"She is still mine, and the love that shines through her burns me straight to the core, telling me that I'm still hers too."
*I received this ARC from the author but the thoughts are completely my own.*
August 26, 2021
Congratulations to C.A. Mariah on her debut novel, Hunted.
***********************************
ᴘʟᴇᴀꜱᴇ ɴᴏᴛᴇ ᴛʀɪɢɢᴇʀ ᴡᴀʀɴɪɴɢꜱ. ᴛʜɪꜱ ɪꜱ ɴᴏᴛ ᴀ ʙᴏᴏᴋ ꜰᴏʀ ᴛʜᴇ ꜰᴀɪɴᴛ ᴏꜰ ʜᴇᴀʀᴛꜱ ᴏʀ ᴜɴᴀᴅᴠᴇɴᴛᴜʀᴏᴜꜱ ʀᴇᴀᴅᴇʀ.
***********************************
I love a good book that makes me pause, hold my breath, gasp, & sweat. C.A. Mariah delivers all that and then some. There were even moments I paused and debated about continuing, I am so glad I didn’t quit, because the book truly gave me a cathartic revival!
Amira + Roman have undergone a gauntlet of unimaginable horrors. Amira can be summed up as resilient, while Roman is fierce and loyal.
While the novel ends in a good place for all the characters. There’s a burning question I have and it’s ʜᴏᴡ and ᴡʜᴇʀᴇ do Amira + Roman continue?
Yes, the story ends on a 𝓱𝓪𝓹𝓹𝓲𝓵𝔂 𝓯𝓸𝓻 𝓷𝓸𝔀 however the ending is designed to where we can come back. Fear not my HEA seekers.
Ashton is an important side character who provides comedic relief & he has a sad backstory. Ugh, my heart! I do hope we get more of him. 👀
***********************************
ᴘʟᴇᴀꜱᴇ ɴᴏᴛᴇ ᴛʀɪɢɢᴇʀ ᴡᴀʀɴɪɴɢꜱ. ᴛʜɪꜱ ɪꜱ ɴᴏᴛ ᴀ ʙᴏᴏᴋ ꜰᴏʀ ᴛʜᴇ ꜰᴀɪɴᴛ ᴏꜰ ʜᴇᴀʀᴛꜱ ᴏʀ ᴜɴᴀᴅᴠᴇɴᴛᴜʀᴏᴜꜱ ʀᴇᴀᴅᴇʀ.
***********************************
I love a good book that makes me pause, hold my breath, gasp, & sweat. C.A. Mariah delivers all that and then some. There were even moments I paused and debated about continuing, I am so glad I didn’t quit, because the book truly gave me a cathartic revival!
Amira + Roman have undergone a gauntlet of unimaginable horrors. Amira can be summed up as resilient, while Roman is fierce and loyal.
While the novel ends in a good place for all the characters. There’s a burning question I have and it’s ʜᴏᴡ and ᴡʜᴇʀᴇ do Amira + Roman continue?
Yes, the story ends on a 𝓱𝓪𝓹𝓹𝓲𝓵𝔂 𝓯𝓸𝓻 𝓷𝓸𝔀 however the ending is designed to where we can come back. Fear not my HEA seekers.
Ashton is an important side character who provides comedic relief & he has a sad backstory. Ugh, my heart! I do hope we get more of him. 👀
August 21, 2021
4.5 Stars!! 💙 🦋
As soon as this book was announced it became one of my most anticipated reads of 2021! I could not contain my excitement for it! I started reading it as soon as possible and got into it right away. Hunted had me absolutely hooked from beginning to end! I loved this story so very much!
Amira and Roman's journey isn't an easy one. It's dark, realistic, and filled with true as well as raw feelings that are so gripping. The way this story and it's characters got to me and made me feel every emotion possible is something that I'll never forget. I could picture it all so clearly as well.
I didn't want to put this book down until I reached the end!
With Hunted, Ms.Mariah has created one fantastic debut novel that'll get into your heart and make you feel it all! I can't believe this is her first book! I am so excited for more of her words and what she has in store for us in the future! 💙 🦋
*I volunteered to read and review a copy of this book from the author*
As soon as this book was announced it became one of my most anticipated reads of 2021! I could not contain my excitement for it! I started reading it as soon as possible and got into it right away. Hunted had me absolutely hooked from beginning to end! I loved this story so very much!
Amira and Roman's journey isn't an easy one. It's dark, realistic, and filled with true as well as raw feelings that are so gripping. The way this story and it's characters got to me and made me feel every emotion possible is something that I'll never forget. I could picture it all so clearly as well.
I didn't want to put this book down until I reached the end!
With Hunted, Ms.Mariah has created one fantastic debut novel that'll get into your heart and make you feel it all! I can't believe this is her first book! I am so excited for more of her words and what she has in store for us in the future! 💙 🦋
*I volunteered to read and review a copy of this book from the author*
Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews