All Reviews

This is possibly my favorite book of the year. It was unique, thought provoking, and not what I expected at all. It’s a long read, but I never once got bored or struggled through it. Natalie is the most unlikable character, but I found myself feeling sorry for her majority of the time. I think she is a person many women who were raised in evangelical Christian households can relate to (in a triggering way). This book may not be for everyone, but it has so many layers if you choose to peel them back.

Release date: September 2026

This is an absolute binge worthy debut novel! I was hooked from the very first chapter. You’re thrown into this eerie and fanatical religious cult right along with the main character Mia and believe me, it’s a wild ride. From the homeschool lessons, to the trapdoor, to the bleeding paintings, it all just leaves chills on your skin. The religious imagery throughout was so well done. The ending is what bumped my 4 stars to 4.5. The feminine rage that Mia unleashed was everything. What a critique of those who claim to “love the Lord” but do the complete opposite. Mia said NOPE, you’re the worst kind of people and I’m going to destroy you for it. They all got what they deserved. I read this book was originally a screenplay and if that ever comes to fruition, I would 100% be in line for the movie.

I know this released in December 2025, but better late than never! I regret not reading it sooner though. I absolutely loved it. It was the perfect combination of psychological thriller and slasher, as well as deeper topics like suicide, grief, and love. The protaginist, Iris, is battling demons within herself after the tragic death of her mother. Not only that, the love of her life is shady and can't be trusted throughout the whole book. Honestly, he sucks.

Release date: September 2026

Someone press play on "Shake It Off" by Taylor Swift because haters gonna hate, hate, hate, hate. hate. This book has some pretty negative reviews and I'm not sure why. It's a beautiful story of second chances, but even more so, it's a story of grief in all forms. Not only does the MFC (Blair) experience grief over the death of a loved one, she experiences anger and sadness over the loss of close friendships and the life she had planned for herself. The way Haley depicts grief is real and raw. One passage that stuck with me mentions how even in your darkest moments and worse days, there will still be dirty dishes in the sink. The world doesn't stop just because your world did. Ugh. My heart. If you have ever experienced loss, you get it.

As soon as this book was available to request on NetGalley, I requested it! I have loved every book I’ve read by Clay, but I was nervous diving into horrormance because I didn’t know what to expect. Would it be horror with some spicy scenes? Dark romance? So many questions. That said, IT. WAS. PERFECT. There were parts written so beautifully I questioned whether or not Clay secretly writes romance all the time! And not corny romance. Romance that makes you FEEL something. The constant comparison between love and possession was *chef’s kiss* There are dark elements and it’s definitely horror, but it’s so much more than that. If you love horror, read it. If you love love (and all its dark and twisted and messy glory) read it. Thanks to NetGalley and The Hive for allowing me to read the ARC!