A Blog of Books and Tea

(ARC/Kindle Unlimited)

Tropes:

• 🥀Erotic Horror Romance
• 🥀Haunted House 
• 🥀Enemies To Lovers
• 🥀Forced Proximity 
• 🥀Multiple Person POV
• 🥀Obsessed MMC
• 🥀Morally Black MMC

Stars – ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Synopsis – When Evelyn agreed to help her friend empty her auntie’s creepy house, she didn’t expect to find herself in a horrifying game of cat and mouse where she would soon be hunted. As night fell, shadows danced menacingly along the walls, and every creak of the old floorboards made her heart race. But who’s doing the hunting? Is it Felix, her friend’s extremely hot but frustrating older brother, whose piercing gaze both captivates and intimidates her? Or is there something more nefarious at play, lurking in the dark corners of the house, waiting to reveal itself? And can Evelyn control her need to be the hunters little toy?

Thoughts – I’m going to start by saying, this is not my usual genre. Or more like, this is the first time I have read anything from this genre. You might say my bookcase has been a little sheltered! I have always gravitated towards familiar themes and narratives that resonate with my personal experiences and preferences. However, I felt a sense of curiosity nudging me to explore something entirely different, drawing me away from my comfort zone. And boy, did this book do just that!

That being said, lets move on to the actual review!

I really enjoyed this book! I know, I’m just as shocked. Sometimes it’s hard to move away from the comfort blanket of a familiar genre, where predictable outcomes provide a sense of security. Usually, I know what to expect when I’m reading and often get close to guessing the plot twists before they happen, piecing together clues like a puzzle. But not this time! This story took me on an unexpected journey that I won’t be forgetting any time soon.

This book starts off with an eerie feeling, especially by Chapter 2, where humanoid shapes evoke a sense of dread. The unsettling movement of these figures creates a spine-chilling atmosphere, leading to heightened awareness of every sound and a feeling of being watched. The experience made me both eager and terrified to turn the page. The feelings of dread only intensify as the book progresses – magnified by the fact I was reading in the dark after midnight! When I say I was thoroughly spooked, I’m not exaggerating!

The relationship between Evelyn and Felix quickly becomes intense, leading to some very erotic scenes that are not only captivating but also deeply nuanced. I really liked that the author added the thoughts of these characters in these moments, allowing readers to engage with their inner turmoil. Evelyn’s conflicting feelings between her body and her brain create a fascinating tension, as she struggles to reconcile her physical desires with her rational mind. Meanwhile, Felix’s need to be in control evolves into a complex exploration of vulnerability, as he begins to realize there may be more to his feelings than mere lust and power. This revelation shifts the dynamic between them, adding layers of emotional depth and complexity to their interactions. The added insight into the psyche of these characters not only enriches the narrative but also invites the audience to contemplate the intricacies of human relationships, desire, and the blurred lines between power and passion.

I would recommend this book to others; however, I would warn them about potential triggers within it. Literature can evoke strong emotions, especially for those with a history of controlling relationships that caused trauma. I would advise such individuals against reading this book, as it may bring up uncomfortable feelings. Conversely, if you’re open-minded, I encourage you to read it and share your thoughts. Engaging with the story might offer new insights, and you’ll be supporting an Indie author, contributing to the literary community and discovering unique voices.