A Blog of Books and Tea

(ARC Review)

Nightmares on Lull Lane is a shared world anthology. Each author in this series has written their own book; however, they will tie into each other and continue one main storyline. While it is not mandatory, I highly recommend you read them in order

Anthology Synopsis – Eighteen years ago, the Lull Lane Dollmaker made ten families porcelain dolls as gifts to welcome their children into the world. But what these families didn’t know was that souls of lullabies were poured into each one as they were created. Now, the Dollmaker is coming to collect. One by one.

The books in this anthology can be read in any order. However, The Dollmaker must be read first, and Wee, Wee, Wee, As You Burn must be read last. I also feel that the story has more impact when read in the order of release.

1. The Dollmaker by Ashlynn
2. Hush Little Martyr, Don’t You Scream by Annika Nofal
3. Oh My Darling: It’s Time To Die by Talia Lane
4. See How They Run by Ellie Sanders
5. A Doll’s Curse by Nicolasa DeSantiago
6. Don’t Look Back by Raelynn Harper
7. Pop Goes The Weasel, Pop Goes Your Head by Erica Hart
8. Ashes to Ashes by Cedar Rose
9. The Threads Of Fate by Amaya Jax
10. Deadly Web by Alena Jane
11. Wee, Wee, Wee, As You Burn by Ashlynn

The Dollmaker by Ashlynn

Rating – 💀💀💀💀💀

Synopsis –

Savannah:

They thought they ruined me and got away with it on homecoming night.

I survived.

I got stronger.

For eighteen years their faces have haunted my dreams; the moment of retribution has arrived at last. A part of me died that day; they took something irreplaceable, leaving an ache in my soul.

Now, their children are all grown up, and it’s time for my dolls to enact vengeance before coming home.

Thoughts –

This was a strong start to a series. I’ve never read anything by Ashlynn before, but it won’t be the last! I love the way she writes. Her chilling descriptions of heinous acts are intricately detailed, showcasing her ability to explore the darkest corners of the human psyche. She sets the tone beautifully, drawing you into an unsettling yet enthralling world. Each sentence unfolds with precision, making it impossible to put the book down, and I’m eager to know what happens next.

Throughout the story, you really feel for Savannah. She goes through intense hell, facing trials that challenge her spirit and test her limits. Despite the darkness surrounding her, she finds the strength to carry on, drawing on an inner resilience that surprises her. Albeit with extreme trauma that influences her thoughts and emotions, just when you think she’s on the path to healing, her whole world is cruelly ripped from underneath her feet, plunging her back into chaos and forcing her to confront new fears.

This story really is not for those that have suffered trauma that is connected to SA, as it delves into themes that could be deeply triggering for them. It is, however, the perfect start to one gruesome revenge story!

Please check trigger warnings before reading, for the sake of your mental health.

Hush Little Martyr, Don’t You Scream by Annika Nofal

Rating – 💀💀💀💀

Synopsis –

Ember

When a random doll shows up on our porch, I didn’t think much of it. I stashed him in my room and went on about my day. But then … strange things started to happen—things I hadn’t given a second thought to before. It only took me days to realize that the doll was possessed. He was creepy, hellbent on destroying my family, yet also seemed way too interested in me for my liking. I had to find out how to get him sent back to whatever plane of existence he came from before he killed us all.

Alastair

Hush little Martyr, don’t you scream. If you do, I’ll remove your spleen. Stay quiet so mommy and daddy don’t hear. Oh, you sweet, sweet girl, I can taste your fear.

Marcella and Fabian thought they’d gotten away with the unthinkable. Unfortunately for them, the Dollmaker doesn’t forget and neither do I. I’ll pick their entire family off one by one, starting with the wretched man of the house. But I’m going to have the most fun with Ember. I’ll play with her until I get bored, and then she’ll be gone too.

Maybe I’ll even make Daddy dearest watch.

Thoughts –

As the first introduction to the demonic dolls, this book is fantastic and intricately woven with dark themes. Throughout the story, it’s impossible not to feel an overwhelming sense of sympathy for Ember – she certainly has not hit the jackpot in terms of parents. They’re absolutely horrible. From a hateful father whose harsh words cut deep, to a mother who seems to be lost in her own world and just doesn’t care about her wellbeing, our FMC really goes through the wringer.

Enter Alistair… He’s one sexy, dark-hearted individual, with an aura of mystery that simply captivates those around him. Although a little creepy and unsettling, I still enjoyed his murderous inner monologue – his thoughts often oscillate between desire and darkness, creating an intoxicating tension that keeps me turning the pages. I also love that he has a clear change of heart regarding what his intended “mission” was.

This story really is not for those that have suffered trauma that is connected to SA, as it delves into themes that could be deeply triggering for them. Please check trigger warnings before reading, for the sake of your mental health.

Oh My Darling: It’s Time To Die by Talia Lane

Rating – 💀💀💀💀

Synopsis –

This is Ally’s story.

I didn’t ask to be brought here. Brought into this horrible existence, this so-called “life”. Just when I thought I might see the light at the end of the tunnel, things take a wicked and twisted turn. The discovery of a hidden doll I named Clementine has brought a whole new meaning to the word possessed. I thought it was all in my head. The eerie lullaby being sung. The darkness weighing on me. Then, in one split second, I snapped. Or.. was it actually me at all? I’ve lost all sense of control and now I only have one question. Will I even make it out of this alive?

Thoughts –

This story is definitely a step up in the horror department compared to “Hush Little Martyr”. Clementine is wonderfully creepy and brutal, embodying a haunting presence that lingers long after the pages are turned. Her loyalty to her maker is iron clad, a testament to a bond that goes beyond mere creation; it is a deep, unsettling devotion that drives the narrative forward in unexpected ways.

The recurring theme of neglect and trauma from horrible parents runs through this story, with our FMC Ally suffering through trauma that no parent should put their children through. Each instance of emotional abandonment leaves deep scars that shape her character and influence her decisions, compelling her to navigate a world filled with mistrust and despair.

The plot of this story is perfectly creepy and dark, making me want to carry on reading until the very end. The intricate details woven throughout heighten the suspense, immersing the reader in a world where shadows seem to whisper secrets, and every twist leads to unforeseen revelations.

This story really is not for those that have suffered trauma that is connected to SA, as it delves into themes that could be deeply triggering for them. Please check trigger warnings before reading, for the sake of your mental health.

See How They Run by Ellie Sanders

Rating – 💀💀💀

Synopsis –

Briar Hartley is the queen of Wisteria High—rich, ruthless, and devastatingly pretty. She breaks hearts for sport, ruins reputations with a whisper, and collects ex-boyfriends like trophies. Apologies aren’t in her vocabulary; the world exists to serve her, and everyone else is just background noise.

She’s never given a second thought to the strange doll that’s been perched on her bedroom shelf since she was a baby. Not until it starts to whisper.

As the rhymes grow darker, Briar’s perfect body begins to betray her. Fine white fur creeps across her skin no matter how often she shaves it. Her teeth sharpen into eager little knives. Hunger coils inside her, curling tighter each day, begging for something warm and red.

No amount of designer clothes or sugar-sweet smiles can hide what she’s becoming.

Because Briar Hartley was always a predator at heart. Now she’s just grown the claws to match—and she can’t wait to carve people open, just to see how beautifully they’ll bleed.

Fairytales never promised happy endings.

Some dolls are made for play. Others are made for blood…

Thoughts –

This book was a little different to the others. Firstly, I do feel that this book reads more like a thriller than a horror. However, that being said, I still enjoyed it because of Briar’s fall from grace. Her character development was profound, illustrating a deep descent into moral ambiguity that compelled me to keep reading.

Our FMC doesn’t experience the trauma that the other characters have faced so far in the series. She’s the “Queen” of the school, and everyone is terrified of her, adding to her imposing reign over the social hierarchy. This power creates a palpable tension in the hallways, showcasing her manipulation skills and the fear she instills in her peers. I love reading about her fall from the top; it feels like deserved poetic justice after the horrible things she has done, from subtle jabs to outright bullying. Ellie has crafted her character perfectly as the villain, highlighting the complexity of her motivations while ensuring readers relish the irony of her downfall.

Please check trigger warnings before reading, for the sake of your mental health.

A Doll’s Curse by Nicolasa DeSantiago

Rating – 💀💀💀💀💀

Synopsis –

In this story, the Santos family deals with the consequences of past actions and the dark curses that threaten to destroy their future.

Thoughts –

Oh my, this book is incredibly creepy and the creepiest so far in the series! From the very first page, it sets a chilling atmosphere that draws you in. It hits all the right notes for a horror story, weaving suspense and dread seamlessly. Some parts literally made me cringe, keeping me at the edge of my seat. It’s exactly what I expected from this anthology, and Nicolasa wrote it so well that her words practically came alive.

As a side note…. WTF was with Nancy and Betsy???? That was utterly vile, and was the part that made me feel the most uncomfortable throughout reading.

The details within this story are so intricately written, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the narrative. Belinda is truly creepy and once messed up kid that’s going to need some serious therapy after the events of this book.

Please check trigger warnings before reading, for the sake of your mental health.

Don’t Look Back by Raelynn Harper

Rating – 💀💀💀💀💀

Synopsis –

Avery
The men in this town have taken everything from me…. and I’m not the only one. When my birthday comes, and the last thread of my sanity snaps, my old dolly starts whispering things to me… and she has some very fun ideas on how to punish those who have wronged me. With her cruel and wicked words consuming me a little more each day, I decide to take my mom’s old boat – the only piece of her I have left – and plot our revenge.

They will all get what is coming to them, even if I have to hunt them down one by one. Starting with the one who laid hands on the love of my life. Allie may not know it yet – but she is mine.

Allie
I may not know who the beautiful blonde is that came to my rescue, but I certainly intend to find out. She is brave, outspoken, and real. Which is hard to find in a snobby town like Warren, Connecticut. Here, wealth and public appearances are all that matter. Women are nothing more than trophies to be admired, then used. I never did fit in… and I’m starting to wonder if the strange feelings my new admirer sparks might just be why.

People say she is a sociopath, but I think she is brilliant.

Thoughts –

This one is a little different from the others, in that it’s only Avery’s father that is a massive scumbag. I don’t want to say much more than that as I don’t want to give any major spoilers in my review.

In this book, Avery finds the utter love of her life that accepts her for who she is, darkness and all. This sapphic love story is truly bittersweet. I loved Avery and Allie’s relationship and the sheer trust that have for one another. I also loved that Allie didn’t really question the fact that Edith was a talking, homicidal doll!

Now for Edith… She is truly a murderous little delight. She is a perfect match for our FMC, and seems to love both her and her maker in equal measure. She also murders with utter glee, and I’m certainly down for that! This book is 100% what you would expect from a horror anthology, and has made me more excited to read the rest of the books.

Please check trigger warnings before reading, for the sake of your mental health.

Pop Goes The Weasel, Pop Goes Your Head by Erica Hart

Rating – 💀💀💀💀

Synopsis –

This is Caspian’s story. He has it all, looks, wealth and intelligence. But he has a dark side which only comes out in his dreams, but what happens when the terror is no longer a dream, but reality..
Gore, possession and delicious vengeance. The doll maker sure knows how to make the weasel go pop!

Thoughts –

Another very good book in this anthology. It was wonderfully dark, and featured out first MMC, Caspian. Although he grows up in a wealthy household, it soon becomes apparent that his parents have absolutely no time for him. This leaves him open to being possessed by his doll from a VERY young age.

Caspian is a very angry young man, so it only stands to reason that his doll, Bess would be able to twist him towards evil intent with relative ease. She is utterly wackadoodle and her bloodlust is uncontrollable. Especially with the bus scene! Her connection to Caspian seems much more intense than the other dolls, which leads to her seemingly taking on more of a roll in the demise of the people around Caspian. She is perfectly evil and manages to make Caspian strong enough to take on his task.

Please check trigger warnings before reading, for the sake of your mental health.

Ashes to Ashes by Cedar Rose

Rating – 💀💀💀💀💀

Synopsis –

Cala
I’ve been waking up with horrible nightmares. My reality and dreams seeing to run together. In all honesty, I’m not sure what is real anymore. All I can say is all my life I’ve been the quiet nerd, pushed around in school. Even my parents seem distant, like I’m a disease. I like the dream world where I can live out my dark fantasies in all its bright red glory.

Thoughts –

I loved that the doll in this book took a different approach to helping the Dollmaker get her revenge. I loved the dynamic between Cala and he “Shadows”. These boys are her literal ride or die, and it is steamy as all hell! I love the nod to the “why choose” trope in this book.

This dolls revenge is stone cold… Which is ironic considering the chosen method for murder in this chapter of NOLL. I loved this book because of just how brutal Lily is. She is a brilliant addition to this anthology.

Please check trigger warnings before reading, for the sake of your mental health.

The Threads Of Fate by Amaya Jax

Rating – 💀💀💀💀💀

Synopsis –

This is Madelyn’s story.

Madelyn always dreamed of a better life, never thinking it would actually happen. But when her old doll suddenly reappears, everything begins to change. A mysterious man arrives with secrets she can’t ignore. Will this be the fresh start she’s always wished for—or the beginning of something far worse?

Thoughts –

This is the third book I have read from the lovely Amaya Jax, and she doesn’t disappoint. This book had me hooked from the first page, and I love the character progression of the FMC, Madelyn. The poor girl seems to be living a terrible life, and she can’t be blamed entirely for the events that unfold.

Madelyn’s father and step mother are the definition of neglectful and abusive. They flit from not giving a damn about her, to verbally and physically abusing her. You can understand why she seems so lost but hopeful of a better life outside the house.

She certainly comes into her own after she meets Corvin. This boy seems to know exactly what to say to our FMC that send her swooning. He’s also massively supportive and protective of her, showing her the love she so desperately craves.

Seraphina, her doll, also plays a part in making Madelyn feel strong and able to face those that have caused her the most pain. I do wish that we had seen more of Seraphina’s character though, but I don’t think this takes away from the story itself.

The ending was massively unexpected but welcome, and makes you wonder what the hell is going on. I can’t wait to keep reading!

Please check trigger warnings before reading, for the sake of your mental health.

Deadly Web by Alena Jane

Rating – 💀💀💀💀💀

Synopsis –

Quinn:
My parents thought that since they were the perfect couple in high school, that I’d turn out that way too. My mom was a cheerleader, and my dad was captain of the football team. Life couldn’t get any better, right? What they didn’t expect was for their secret to bleed out onto their only child, the secret they all hold close. Lies and secrets, that’s our biggest sin.

All it took was a creepy doll and a deadly spider to show up, and it was like something inside me snapped. All the ones that did the Dollmaker wrong, I want to right them and help get her revenge. To the ones who have done me wrong, well, it’s even worse for you… I have no fucks left to give. Time to let the spider out to play.

Thoughts –

I was really looking forward to this doll as it intrigued me from the moment it was introduced in The Dollmaker. Sadie was fantastic and the spider, Kai… A wonderfully creepy addition to the story. These two characters wanted to protect Quinn throughout this book. They really help her to overcome the trials and tribulations that she faces on a daily basis.

Quinn’s complete acceptance of the revenge she dishes out is utterly perfect, and I really feel for her once she finds out just how depraved her parents are. You really do get a sense of the complete rage she feels, and the shame of them being her parents.

This book was so well written, and that CLIFFHANGER!!! Holy cr*p, I cannot wait to read the next (and last 😦 ) book in this anthology. Alena’s ability to weave together such an engaging narrative leaves me eagerly anticipating how all the threads will come together in the final installment.

Please check trigger warnings before reading, for the sake of your mental health.

Wee, Wee, Wee, As You Burn by Ashlynn

Rating – 💀💀💀💀💀

Synopsis –

Senior year is in full swing, and I’m surrounded by chaos.
My best friend is dead.
The popular girls won’t leave me alone.
The quarterback wants me to be his dirty little secret. That makes two men at this point.
Then there is Olive, my porcelain doll I’ve had since birth, who taunts me in my sleep showing me vivid dreams of something heinous that happened eighteen years ago, so she says.
And oh, I almost forgot. My whole life has been a damn lie.
Is there anything else we want to pile onto my already shitty existence? No? Okay…
Then proceed with caution because I am seconds away from crashing out on the entire school and letting everyone burn for their sins.
One little piggy at a time.

Thoughts –

What a brilliant conclusion to a gripping anthology! I don’t want to give too much away… But that ending!! Oh my it was so good! I really did not expect the twist in this book, it was amazing! The way Ashlynn has tied this whole series together is truly masterfully done.

In this book, return to Charlee. She was Quinn’s best friend in the previous book (Deadly Web). I was not expecting her to have her own doll. Especially since she SAW Quinn’s and barely even reacted to it! Her doll, Olive, is wonderfully sadistic. It gets even better when we are reintroduced to Sadie, Quinn’s doll. We get the team up of a lifetime, and it is beautifully and chaotically disturbing.

There were so many twists within this story, and the ending was so good that it left readers both satisfied and craving more. The intricate plot weaves together unexpected events and cleverly crafted characters, all leading to a climactic resolution that comes full circle in the best way possible. You’ll have to read it to find out more about the thrilling developments that keep you on the edge of your seat!

Please check trigger warnings before reading, for the sake of your mental health.