HWY 725

by Octavia Grant, Kaylynn Hunt

Caesar Brindle once believed in love. But the day he lost his wife, the only thing he felt was rage and despair. Plagued with guilt over taking her for granted, he nearly lost himself. The same fire was apparent in his daughter's eyes. Armed with the skills taught by her father, Shania finds a way to alleviate her pain. The two bond over the journey to heal together. But for some, their methods may be deadly.

Genres: Horror, Thriller

128 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 25, 2024

About the author

Octavia Grant discovered her passion for creative writing in 2002 during her junior year at Georgetown High School in Georgetown, South Carolina. She began writing professionally in 2016 and, two years later, took full ownership of her literary career by becoming an independent author. A bestselling black thriller author and the bestselling author of Cutthroat, Octavia has penned more than 30 novels known for their psychological depth and gripping suspense.
Her work and voice have earned national recognition, including speaking on the Thrilling Tales Author Panel at ESSENCE Fest, Thriller Panelist at National Book Club Conference (NBCC), interview with Narrator iiKane, literary reviewer and film commentator Tamara Walker of Tam Telling Tales, and features in WYB Lifestyle, VoyageJacksonville, Canvas Rebel, and Bold Journey. She has also been honored as one of 160 Black Women in Horror and received multiple accolades for her psychological thriller novella Dear Vicky, including the Black Girls Who Write It’s Lit Award for Best Black Mystery/Suspense, the Audio in Black North Star Award, and the AAMBC Award for Mystery/Thriller Book of the Year.
In addition to these achievements, Octavia has been named Best Thriller/Suspense Horror Author by the Literary Gem Awards and Best Female Author by the Get Caught Up Podcast. Her storytelling continues to push boundaries within the thriller genre, centering bold narratives that captivate, challenge, and resonate with readers worldwide.

Reviews

[Rashawnda · Rating 4 out of 5]

With every book by Octavia that I indulge in, I go from questioning her sanity and mental health to questioning mines for continuing to read 😆

This was different and I was hella intrigued! I really don’t want to give too much away so I’m going to keep this review brief!

Cesar is a father and husband that lives his life very selfishly and unfortunately his selfish deeds catch up to him in a way he could have never imagined. His world is turned upside down and his grief coupled with guilt gives him a deep rage, that revenge is all he is after.

He teams up with the last person readers would expect and the two of them together get the revenge that was deserved!

When I say this was a wild story….. 🗣️WILD

There were a few inconsistencies that created holes in the plot and the timelines and it happened on multiple occasions so that ultimately affected my rating but still an entertaining read nonetheless.

I always enjoy stepping into Octavia’s world but it’s time to step back out 😆. I look forward to what’s next from her!

[April · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wowzers!

Well this was one way for a father and daughter to bond 🥴. I am very familiar with both these authors’ work, and I have yet to be disappointed! This story kept me intrigued from start to finish, and the initial chapter that lead us to the “why” peeked my interest immediately. As I continued to read, I envisioned Tupac’s verse “I ain’t no killa but don’t push me,” as Shaina & Caesar were pushed to their wits end.

This story really took a dive into the mental state of a person that feels like revenge is the only way. Although Caesar was absolving his own guilt, he did not stop until he delivered some good old-fashioned vigilante justice.

[*Ebony I* · Rating 4 out of 5]

Revenge Claimed

Whoa. Well these stories are a far cry from the big romances I love, yet they keep me intrigued.

This was hella crazy. Everybody and I mean everybody got what they deserved. I just knew it was going to end the way it did.

Anything by Ms. Grant is not for the weak, her stories are disturbing but engaging all the same.

[Toya Davis-Stokley · Rating 4 out of 5]

I went into this read knowing what I was getting into, as I have read so many of Ms. Grant's books. Wrong! Wrong as hell! I still need to wrap my head around what I just finished, cause what???? 👀

I couldn't believe Caesar's ole selfish ass. Of all the people in the world, you do your dirt that close to home? 😤 I literally felt pain as we learned what happened to Shaniya and was pissed at Caesar tenfold. 🥹💔 Caesar deserved to feel all the guilt, pain, and suffering he endured as this was all his fault. Now I understand that grief can be acted out in many ways, but did a psychotic break happen? It seemed this man went from depressed to maniacal in a split second.

Now Miss Shania. Did her father bring this out of her, or did she already possess some "dark" attributes as a child. Cause sis was not for the weak, and I was not believing my eyes as I continued to read. Then that ending.... I'm done for y'all! Whew.....

[Jahda · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️3.5 I’m glad Shayna got justice.

[Sha Sha · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5✨

[Tonya Johnson · Rating 3 out of 5]

WOW

It was a traumatic story that kept me wanting to see how it all ended!!! Being groomed to kill, I can't even imagine!!

[Meekilovesbooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ms. Grant has outdone herself. What a wild, ride.

[Samyra Alexander · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing!

This book kept me intrigued from beginning to end. It had so many twists and turns, I didn’t know what to expect next. There was only one person I felt sorry for, everyone else got what they deserved. The ending was highly satisfying.

[Elonda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Woah ...

Octavia Grant and Kaylynn Hunt has done an excellent job with this one. Twists and turns on the road (pun intended.) This was my face 😱 the entire time reading it! 😂

[Alisha 🦋💗 · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve genuinely never read a book like this before lmao. I was so confused, mad, happy, cracking up, everything. Defly a good palette cleanser and something to get out of a slump!

[Monique B. · Rating 5 out of 5]

One word: Unhinged!!! 😂 I didn't know what to expect but I was IN for the ride down HWY 725.

It is a short one, but full of suspense & rage. I didn't know what was gonna go down. The way I hollered & laughed at one situation 🍳🤣🤣. So many unexpected drops in this one.

I had the privilege of reading an early copy of Flight 725 first, not realizing it was to be read afterwards. (I wasn't too far out of the loop but if you are reading one, please read the other) I enjoyed both.

I'm in for whatever ride is next! The ending wasn't exactly what I expected, but close enough. I need more from Kaylynn Hunt & Octavia Grant!

[Lala · Rating 5 out of 5]

I know of killing for justice, but this felt appropriate to how Shania called it honor killing. I should probably get checked out because I was always along for the ride. That ending was so smooth that it was unexpected and it hurt. But I'd read the entire story again 😅

[Ashley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Like Father, Like Daughter

Another crazy ride from Octavia Grant! A superb revenge story if I’ve ever read one! Don’t mess around with these two!

[Fatimah · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another great read from one of my favorite authors! When I need to get in my delusional bag to stop me from being real life delusional and deranged I pick up a book from Octavia Grant. I love they are so short & keep me gasping. Less than half way through, I figured out what was going to happen at the end which I usually don’t get right. Can’t wait to grab my next read from her.

[Dani Adell · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars ⭐️: OMG! What did I just read!?? 🤯!! I’m blown away! I’m still trying to process it all 😭

I was sooo mad at Caesar and Tyra’s trifling asses! And Shania was a beast! The ending had me a little emotional, but in a way I saw it coming, lol.

This was an amazing read 🥂

[Tisa Scott · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good read!

Good story, I enjoyed it, I did figure out the ending ,because I felt like this man is a real trip and wasn't innocent at all! thanks ladies for a banger!

[Lynn Lewis · Rating 4 out of 5]

Guilt, grief, revenge...

Not to mention, gruesome and gory. That took some courage to get through for me. These authors took me for a ride. That ending!

[Bunny · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just when I thought nothing topped Dear Vicky....... WHOA!!!! This was payback with a perfect twist baby! Do you know how MAD you gotta be to chop a mans THING off, Sautee it with onions and peppers feed it to him. And Then turn his head into an animatronic?!?!?!?!

I finally got to see what the emoji's were all about. And Octavia, I expected nothing less from you! lol #justiceforshayna

This is an unhinged story about a cheating husband turned serial killer. While I couldn't stand Ceasar's ass. Considering what happened to his wife could've been prevented. I gotta give it to him for what he did to Shayna's k!ller. Riley got what he deserved, and I didn't feel bad to see how he went out. Because only a sick deranged being will keep pieces of a victim in their kitchen. Back to Ceasar's ass though. It's just like a man to cheat, then blame the woman he slept with... Your wife's sister at that!?!?!? Ninja, aint nobody MAKE you do it!!!

Shania, Ceasar and Shayna's daughter could've grown up to be many things. Unfortunately, she falls in her fathers footsteps. (and she enjoyed it) Shania and her dad go out on the prowl to good ole HWY 75. A place once shut down, and claimed to be "cursed" to HUNT people. They didn't just pick anybody. Their victims were men who did bad really bad things. (am I the problem for justifying this behavior?)

I have to say the end was PERFECT! I kept wondering if Shania would ever take it there, and I'll be honest I'm glad she did. Every person involved in that precious lady losing her life needed to be eliminated...

Octavaia... what have you done to me!?!?!?!?

[Takara M Carter · Rating 4 out of 5]

"HWY 725" is a thriller that hooks you from the very first page with an intriguing conflict that immediately draws you into its narrative web. As someone who devoured the book in a single day, I can attest to its gripping nature and the compelling urgency of its storyline. This was my first experience with a thriller that incorporates heavy sexual content, yet this element did not detract from my overall enjoyment of the book.

The novella, co-authored by two writers, Grant and Hunt, shows a strong storyline with scenes that are both mind-boggling and at times, slightly underdeveloped. One notable aspect was the somewhat ambiguous plot structure, which left me occasionally puzzled. This might be a subjective observation, but clearer narrative arcs could have enhanced the reading experience.

While the dialogue occasionally felt off—such as the line "damn, in here smells good"—these moments were few and far between. The use of certain phrases, like "buxom," was a delightful touch, though there were instances where more evocative descriptions could have been employed. For example, instead of "sexual chocolate tone," a more vivid and sensory description could have elevated the prose, painting a richer picture for the reader.

One area where the book excelled was its ability to captivate with its word choices, although there were times when the narrative fell into "tell" rather than "show." This is a minor critique, as the overall imagery and language were engaging, just occasionally missing that extra layer of descriptive depth that pulls you fully into the scene.

The ending, while expected, was satisfying, wrapping up the story neatly after a whirlwind of bizarre yet fascinating in-between details. "HWY 725" proves to be an excellent choice for a weekend or single-day read, offering an absorbing escape into a world of thrills and unexpected turns.

In conclusion, "HWY 725" is a commendable thriller that succeeds in keeping the reader engaged from start to finish. Despite minor flaws in plot structure and occasional dialogue, the book's strong storyline and immersive quality make it a worthwhile read. If you're looking for a quick, captivating read that combines thrills with a touch of steamy content, "HWY 725" is definitely worth picking up.

[Anna J. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Pssstttt…. Can I talk to ya’ll about HWY 725 by Octavia Taneka Grant and Kaylynn Hunt?
Yeah?
Okay so boom… my mouth is still open.

Shaniaaaaaaa !!!!

She did not come to play! So listen Caesar ol’ triflin self was your typical dude just out here making bad decisions 😩. Like sir, take your behind HOME!

A series of events led up to him missing the opportunity that he needed to get back on track and now his life is just altered. And he has a daughter left that he has to keep moving for.

But listen… lil Shania grows up and has some beef of her own. Some scores that she wants to settle once she finds out what’s really good.

Like father like daughter, okay!
The spin? Did not see that coming!

This was an excellent read. Listened to this with my wife and we were both like daaaaaaaammmnnnnnn😂😂😂😂😂

Great job ladies!

Title: HWY 725
Authors: Octavia Grant and Kaylynn Hunt
Genre: Suspense | Thriller
Pages: 128
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Book #88 for 2024

[Stacy L. · Rating 3 out of 5]

Hwy 725 was a wild, intense ride from start to finish! I don’t think I’ve ever read a book quite like this before. It opens with a brutal murder, and from there, the plot only escalates in tension and chaos. Caesar is grieving the loss of his wife, Shayna, while their daughter, Shania, struggles to cope with her mother’s death in her own way. Though Shania was just a child when her mother passed, the story shifts to her adult life in her twenties, where things take a darker, more disturbing turn.

Caesar reveals a shocking secret to Shania that forges an unimaginable bond between them. What follows is pure madness, as the two are pulled deeper into a twisted, spiraling series of events.

While the book is a quick, fast-paced read that kept me turning pages, there were moments that didn’t quite hit the mark. Some of the dialogue between Caesar and Shania felt off or even repetitive at times, which pulled me out of the story.

Overall, the plot was captivating, but the level of chaos and "unhinged" twists made parts of the story feel too far-fetched for me to fully buy into.

To push Hwy 725 from a 3-star to a 5-star read, I think the author could have focused on tightening the dialogue between Caesar and Shania. Some of their conversations felt repetitive and disconnected, which made it harder for me to stay immersed in their relationship.

Additionally, while the fast pace kept the story moving, it sometimes felt like the chaos overshadowed believability. If the author had balanced the unhinged plot twists with a bit more grounding in reality, it would have been easier to connect with the characters and their motivations. More moments of reflection or emotional buildup could have allowed those shocking moments to land with greater impact.

With these adjustments, Hwy 725 could have been a more emotionally resonant and cohesive story, earning a solid 5 stars.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[RChelle Lynn · Rating 4 out of 5]

No one does unhinged quite like Octavia Grant! If you've ever read any of her other books you know what to expect and HWY 725 did not disappoint.

Ceasar is a cheater and unfortunately, his cheating ways lead to a tragic loss and the disruption of his family. While he takes accountability for his part in the shattering of his family he decides to take his rage out on others-becoming somewhat of a vigilante. Soon, he recognizes the anger and torment in his daughter, and they become a crime duo of sorts - but can he ever be truly forgiven for his part in all of this?

HWY 725 is a quick read that will leave you on edge with tons of thrills.
The sausage and peppers scene is unforgettable and made me giggle. Does that make me unhinged too? lol

[Brisace · Rating 4 out of 5]

This wasn’t just a story, it was a reckoning. Hwy 725 cracked open the kind of grief that lingers in your bones. Caesar and Shania, father and daughter, are bonded by blood, heartbreak, and murder. Yes, you read that right. The way they turned pain into vengeance, Whew.

There was one scene where the weight of how Caesar’s wife was murdered hit me square in the chest. The rage he felt. I felt that. And seeing that same fire in Shania, watching how she picked up the pieces in her own wild, violent way, was both heartbreaking and terrifying.

Octavia and Kaylynn did not hold back. This book was unhinged, emotional, and raw. Just when I thought I knew where it was going… that ending snatched the air right out of my lungs. Didn’t see it coming at all.

[📚MekaG Readz📚 · Rating 5 out of 5]

HWY 725



This story was a wild ride to say the least. Cesar’s indiscretions lead to the gruesome murder of his wife Shayna. For years her last phone call to him that was left on his voicemail tortured him into a deep depression and grief. He was definitely in a sunken place. One conversation with his mom lead him to come back to real life and visit his best friend that he known for years only to find out that his best fiend coveted what he mistreated the most. After getting a taste of what his mother explained as him needing an outlet turned into something more sinister………

[Mae Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 ⭐️Stars rounded up

“Smells divine. I guess the electric skillet works like a charm. I’ma give it a 5-star review. Why don’t you tell me how your d**k taste. Bon Appetit!” Caesar said crazily as he stuffed the freshly cooked p***s, peppers and onions down his throat.”

I’m screaming l!!!!! This book was such an entertaining trip!! Talk about and extreme consequence of not being able to keep your libido in your pants for multiple of the characters in this book.

A, quick fun read sure to have you cackling and kissing your teeth at the trifling behavior of some of the character

[Mandy Kessler · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is what you get if Criminal Minds, CSI, The first 48, and Snapped were to have a baby.

Please be mindful this falls under horror/thriller.

We find out what lengths a man (and his daughter) will go to avenging the murder of his wife and easing the guilt he feels for his involvement. This was a wild ride.

[Indreya Shipp · Rating 4 out of 5]

WOW !!!!! SPOILER ALERT !!!

When Shayna first saw Hun at the bus stop I knew some shit was about to go down. I usually can guess plot twists in books but this one was dropping surprise after surprise. After Ceez found out it was Hun, I knew it was a matter of time before Tyra got what was coming to her. Nothing could've ever prepared me for the ending of this book though.

[Nori Moreno · Rating 4 out of 5]

Octavia. Kaylynn. Let me speak to y’all real quick, cause wtf?

This was not the father-daughter bonding I had in mind when I picked this book up. However this book had me in a chokehold and absolutely intrigued me the whole ride. And boy what a wild ride it was. I’m questioning what’s wrong with me right now actually. 😂

This book was full of gore, violence, humor, and lust. The authors successfully took me through every emotion I could possibly muster while reading.

This may not be for everyone. Please check the TW before diving in. But it did it for me. I look forward to reading more from both Hunt and Grant.


✨ Thank you for the opportunity to review a free ARC of this work via BookSirens. ✨

[Zan Smith · Rating 4 out of 5]

I couldn’t predict where this book was going to save my life (in the best way possible). The things happening in this book turned me every which way but loose. The way my eyes constantly bucked outta my head was unbelievable. The cover was a bit misleading prior to reading, but it makes a lot more sense after reading. I thought this was about to be a post apocalyptic/Walking Dead moment, but it was soooo much better than predicted.