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Carnival #7
Carnival Shadows
The problem with stalking a predator? Sometimes, they decide to keep you.I study killers for a living. I analyze their methods, dissect their psychology, and share their darkest deeds with my podcast listeners, but I’ve never encountered anyone like Remy.
When I spotted him at the carnival, I knew he was different. Those powerful hands, that controlled grace, the darkness lurking behind his eyes—everything about him called to the shadows inside me. I told myself I was investigating the string of disappearances that followed the carnival’s route. But the truth? I was obsessed.
I documented his every move, broke into his trailer, and collected pieces of his life like precious treasures. My motel room walls became a shrine to my fixation, covered in photos I’d taken without his knowledge. I thought I was the hunter, the observer safely studying my subject.
I was wrong.
Now, I’m trapped in his world, a willing prisoner to the monster I stalked. He’s read my journals and seen every twisted fantasy I wrote about him. Instead of running, he’s determined to make each one come true.
They say be careful what you wish for.
But what if your darkest fantasies are exactly what you need?
Carnival Shadows is a dark romance with heavy subjects that some readers may find triggering. There will be access to a full list of the warnings at the beginning of the book. This story has no cliffhanger and ends with a HEA.
When I spotted him at the carnival, I knew he was different. Those powerful hands, that controlled grace, the darkness lurking behind his eyes—everything about him called to the shadows inside me. I told myself I was investigating the string of disappearances that followed the carnival’s route. But the truth? I was obsessed.
I documented his every move, broke into his trailer, and collected pieces of his life like precious treasures. My motel room walls became a shrine to my fixation, covered in photos I’d taken without his knowledge. I thought I was the hunter, the observer safely studying my subject.
I was wrong.
Now, I’m trapped in his world, a willing prisoner to the monster I stalked. He’s read my journals and seen every twisted fantasy I wrote about him. Instead of running, he’s determined to make each one come true.
They say be careful what you wish for.
But what if your darkest fantasies are exactly what you need?
Carnival Shadows is a dark romance with heavy subjects that some readers may find triggering. There will be access to a full list of the warnings at the beginning of the book. This story has no cliffhanger and ends with a HEA.
270 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 14, 2025
514 people are currently reading
2534 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 116 reviews
March 10, 2025
Selena did it again 🙌
Now I'm going to binge read every Carnival book she's written.
I seriously enjoyed this book. Was not expecting half of it but that's what made it so great.
Now I'm going to binge read every Carnival book she's written.
I seriously enjoyed this book. Was not expecting half of it but that's what made it so great.
dnf
July 6, 2025DNF at 63% Woman stalks man, man stalks her back, they fuck. That’s it. Sometimes I crave a dark romance but this one was not for me.
June 22, 2025
so good
now this was good 🤭 great balance between storyline/plot and smut. I haven’t read a pov where she begins as the stalker…but when she realized she became the prey…yummy 🫠
now this was good 🤭 great balance between storyline/plot and smut. I haven’t read a pov where she begins as the stalker…but when she realized she became the prey…yummy 🫠
November 23, 2025
Remy and Eden...Eden is a true crime podcaster who fixated and stalked Remy. Her obsession escalated and then tables were turned when Remy started stalking her.
Dedication
For all dark romance girlies who secretly stalk masked men online, who fantasize about being taken against their will, and who dream of finding someone as twisted as they are. May you find your perfect monster, the one who sees your darkness and wants to play in it with you…
Favorite lines and quotes
His gaze sweeps across the fairground, and for a heartbeat, our eyes lock. The world stops spinning. I’m lost… and found. I can’t look away. His dark eyes pierce through me, freezing me in place and stripping away my carefully constructed facade.
“Well, to satisfy your professional curiosity—I find relationships happen naturally when you meet the right person. Someone who understands the darker pleasures of life.”
Her eyes betray her. They can’t stop roaming my body, her breath coming faster and shallower. I know that look, that need, but it’s not me who’s drawn it out this time.
“Because I know what that look in your eyes means. I’ve seen it before. You want it rough, don’t you, Eden? Want me to take control? Make you scream?”
“I can tell you’re the kind of woman who needs a firm hand, a hard fuck to remind you who’s in control. Someone who’ll make you come so hard you can’t walk straight for a week, but then you’ll be craving more.”
I shouldn’t want to see her again. Shouldn’t crave the way her eyes darkened when I pushed her buttons… But I do.
The irony isn’t lost on me. Here she is, obsessing over meaningless online flirtations while breaking into my private space. My beautiful stalker, so consumed by possessiveness over someone she barely knows—someone she claims to be “studying” for her podcast.
“You’ve been a very thorough observer. Now it’s my turn to watch you.”
I’ve watched her for weeks, learning her patterns as she studied mine. But having her here, trapped and vulnerable, knowing every twisted fantasy she’s written about me in those journals—it’s better than I imagined.
“You’ve spent weeks studying me, learning my patterns.” I tap the journal against my palm. “Now it’s my turn. I will take you apart piece by piece until I understand every dark corner of your mind.”
“I’m going to break down every wall you’ve built, little stalker. Strip away every pretense until there’s nothing left but your obsession.” My fingers grip the journal tighter. “And when I’m done, you’ll never even think about fixating on anyone else.”
We’re playing this dangerous, thrilling game without rules, and the lines between predator and prey have blurred.
I’ve dealt with obsessed women before, but Eden is different. Her calculated pursuit, the meticulous notes, the way she analyzes everything and craves the darkness in me.
Eden’s obsession with me mirrors my own growing fixation with her. She’s not just another problem to solve or a loose end to tie up. She sees my darkness and wants to understand every facet of it. Maybe I’ve been looking at this all wrong. Eden’s not just a stalker who needs to be contained—she might embody exactly what I’ve been avoiding all these years.
“I know what you are, Remy. I’ve always known.” His laugh is low. “No, beautiful. You think you know. You’ve built fantasies in that fucked up mind of yours. But reality?” His fingers slide up into my hair, gripping hard. “Reality is so much darker.”
“But you’ve imagined this, haven’t you?” I taunt, twisting my fingers inside her. “Fantasized about what it would be like to be at some insane criminal’s mercy. This was always the way it was going to end, baby. With you begging, pleading, wet for me.”
I grab her wrists, pinning them above her head with one hand, my other still wrapped around her throat. She’s mine now, completely at my mercy, and I love it—the fear and desire shimmering in her eyes.
“Just like that, baby. Surrender. I know all your fantasies, remember?” I tighten my grip on her hips. “I plan to make every one of them come true, Eden.”
The possessive edge in his voice pools heat low in my belly. This is what I wanted—what I’ve always wanted—to be hunted, desired, possessed. My earlier jealousy feels distant now, replaced by an all-consuming need.
“I love it,” I gasp as he drives deeper. “The blood, the violence, knowing what you’ve done, what you’re capable of; it makes me so wet.”
“No one escapes me,” he growls, teeth grazing my shoulder. “And you’ll never escape either.” “I don’t want to.” The truth spills from me, raw and uncontaminated by the pretenses I’ve constructed in my public life. “I chose this. You. I wanted you to catch me.”
Now I have Eden. Someone who sees the monster and wants to embrace it rather than run from it, and I’ll kill anyone who tries to take her from me.
The realization hits me harder than any punch: I need her. Not just want, not just desire. It’s a need. Like breathing. Like blood in my veins. She’s become essential to my existence in a way that should terrify me but instead makes me want to tear apart anyone who’d try to separate us.
“You’re mine.” I drag my tongue over her neck, tasting the salt on her skin. “Tell me who owns you.” “You do,” Eden gasps, her body tightening around me. “Only you, Remy.”
The moon breaks through the clouds, casting silver light across Eden’s flushed skin. Her eyes meet mine, that obsessive gleam now mixed with what I can only describe as adoration. I’ve never seen anyone look at me like that, and it touches something I thought was long dead and cold—my heart.
“I’ll always come back to you.” My voice comes out rough with conviction. “Always.”
“I love you, Eden.”
“I love you too,” she whispers against my lips.
“You take such good care of me,” he whispers, pressing his forehead to mine. “My beautiful, dangerous girl.” I lean into his touch, savoring this rare moment of tenderness. My hands slide up his chest. “I’ll always take care of you.”
In these quiet moments, I see the man beneath the monster and love them equally.
“Wherever you go, I go. That’s not even a question anymore.”
“These people,” she continues, gesturing to the bustling carnival grounds, “are my family now. And you...” Her voice catches. “You’re my home.”
Her words echo in my head—family, home. Things I never thought I’d have, things I never thought I’d want.
“I never thought I could feel this way,” Eden says, her voice muffled. “Like I’m finally whole.” “You make me feel human,” I admit, the words coming easy. “When I’m with you, the monster inside quiets.” She pulls back just enough to look up at me, her eyes shining. “I love both sides of you. The monster and the man.” “And I love all of you,” I murmur, pressing my forehead to hers. “Your darkness matches mine perfectly.”
Dedication
For all dark romance girlies who secretly stalk masked men online, who fantasize about being taken against their will, and who dream of finding someone as twisted as they are. May you find your perfect monster, the one who sees your darkness and wants to play in it with you…
Favorite lines and quotes
His gaze sweeps across the fairground, and for a heartbeat, our eyes lock. The world stops spinning. I’m lost… and found. I can’t look away. His dark eyes pierce through me, freezing me in place and stripping away my carefully constructed facade.
“Well, to satisfy your professional curiosity—I find relationships happen naturally when you meet the right person. Someone who understands the darker pleasures of life.”
Her eyes betray her. They can’t stop roaming my body, her breath coming faster and shallower. I know that look, that need, but it’s not me who’s drawn it out this time.
“Because I know what that look in your eyes means. I’ve seen it before. You want it rough, don’t you, Eden? Want me to take control? Make you scream?”
“I can tell you’re the kind of woman who needs a firm hand, a hard fuck to remind you who’s in control. Someone who’ll make you come so hard you can’t walk straight for a week, but then you’ll be craving more.”
I shouldn’t want to see her again. Shouldn’t crave the way her eyes darkened when I pushed her buttons… But I do.
The irony isn’t lost on me. Here she is, obsessing over meaningless online flirtations while breaking into my private space. My beautiful stalker, so consumed by possessiveness over someone she barely knows—someone she claims to be “studying” for her podcast.
“You’ve been a very thorough observer. Now it’s my turn to watch you.”
I’ve watched her for weeks, learning her patterns as she studied mine. But having her here, trapped and vulnerable, knowing every twisted fantasy she’s written about me in those journals—it’s better than I imagined.
“You’ve spent weeks studying me, learning my patterns.” I tap the journal against my palm. “Now it’s my turn. I will take you apart piece by piece until I understand every dark corner of your mind.”
“I’m going to break down every wall you’ve built, little stalker. Strip away every pretense until there’s nothing left but your obsession.” My fingers grip the journal tighter. “And when I’m done, you’ll never even think about fixating on anyone else.”
We’re playing this dangerous, thrilling game without rules, and the lines between predator and prey have blurred.
I’ve dealt with obsessed women before, but Eden is different. Her calculated pursuit, the meticulous notes, the way she analyzes everything and craves the darkness in me.
Eden’s obsession with me mirrors my own growing fixation with her. She’s not just another problem to solve or a loose end to tie up. She sees my darkness and wants to understand every facet of it. Maybe I’ve been looking at this all wrong. Eden’s not just a stalker who needs to be contained—she might embody exactly what I’ve been avoiding all these years.
“I know what you are, Remy. I’ve always known.” His laugh is low. “No, beautiful. You think you know. You’ve built fantasies in that fucked up mind of yours. But reality?” His fingers slide up into my hair, gripping hard. “Reality is so much darker.”
“But you’ve imagined this, haven’t you?” I taunt, twisting my fingers inside her. “Fantasized about what it would be like to be at some insane criminal’s mercy. This was always the way it was going to end, baby. With you begging, pleading, wet for me.”
I grab her wrists, pinning them above her head with one hand, my other still wrapped around her throat. She’s mine now, completely at my mercy, and I love it—the fear and desire shimmering in her eyes.
“Just like that, baby. Surrender. I know all your fantasies, remember?” I tighten my grip on her hips. “I plan to make every one of them come true, Eden.”
The possessive edge in his voice pools heat low in my belly. This is what I wanted—what I’ve always wanted—to be hunted, desired, possessed. My earlier jealousy feels distant now, replaced by an all-consuming need.
“I love it,” I gasp as he drives deeper. “The blood, the violence, knowing what you’ve done, what you’re capable of; it makes me so wet.”
“No one escapes me,” he growls, teeth grazing my shoulder. “And you’ll never escape either.” “I don’t want to.” The truth spills from me, raw and uncontaminated by the pretenses I’ve constructed in my public life. “I chose this. You. I wanted you to catch me.”
Now I have Eden. Someone who sees the monster and wants to embrace it rather than run from it, and I’ll kill anyone who tries to take her from me.
The realization hits me harder than any punch: I need her. Not just want, not just desire. It’s a need. Like breathing. Like blood in my veins. She’s become essential to my existence in a way that should terrify me but instead makes me want to tear apart anyone who’d try to separate us.
“You’re mine.” I drag my tongue over her neck, tasting the salt on her skin. “Tell me who owns you.” “You do,” Eden gasps, her body tightening around me. “Only you, Remy.”
The moon breaks through the clouds, casting silver light across Eden’s flushed skin. Her eyes meet mine, that obsessive gleam now mixed with what I can only describe as adoration. I’ve never seen anyone look at me like that, and it touches something I thought was long dead and cold—my heart.
“I’ll always come back to you.” My voice comes out rough with conviction. “Always.”
“I love you, Eden.”
“I love you too,” she whispers against my lips.
“You take such good care of me,” he whispers, pressing his forehead to mine. “My beautiful, dangerous girl.” I lean into his touch, savoring this rare moment of tenderness. My hands slide up his chest. “I’ll always take care of you.”
In these quiet moments, I see the man beneath the monster and love them equally.
“Wherever you go, I go. That’s not even a question anymore.”
“These people,” she continues, gesturing to the bustling carnival grounds, “are my family now. And you...” Her voice catches. “You’re my home.”
Her words echo in my head—family, home. Things I never thought I’d have, things I never thought I’d want.
“I never thought I could feel this way,” Eden says, her voice muffled. “Like I’m finally whole.” “You make me feel human,” I admit, the words coming easy. “When I’m with you, the monster inside quiets.” She pulls back just enough to look up at me, her eyes shining. “I love both sides of you. The monster and the man.” “And I love all of you,” I murmur, pressing my forehead to hers. “Your darkness matches mine perfectly.”
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 15, 2025
Carnival Shadows by Selena Winters
⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Selena Winters’ ‘Carnival Shadows’ is archetypal in a world of melodramatic suspense and the absence of gratifying passion. In the contemporary world of murder mysteries, readers find Eden Love—a true crime podcaster and furtive lover for blood and murder. Eden has found a new missing person development in accordance to a carnival tour, Carnival of Death, and it recently has set foot in her own backyard. Thriving off the desire of the latest murder mystery, Eden enters the carnival, attempting to find the face behind the missing persons that are lured by the conspicuous carnival show.
Remy is a brooding character, Selena Winters articulates the male MMC as an individual who is hard to not to glance at, holding an authority that is equally gratifying and scary. When Eden meets Remy, all characteristics come to forefront of her mind, and immediately she knows Remy is a party in the missing persons case from Carnival. Although the everyday person would run, Eden cannot stop thinking about the over six foot man, with tattoos dancing on a fibrous body, and the eyes that invite her to taste the same blood he has.
In ‘Carnival Shadows’ readers are privy to the ultimate predator versus prey trope. We watch as Eden’s obsession with Remy increases and Remy’s fascination to tear down the podcaster overwhelms his mind. The two continue to grow their taboo relationship through kinky affairs, and the desire to indulge in the unspeakable sides of murder and sex. Despite the darkness lurking between the two, the author articulates their relationship with affection, using diction that soothes the soul and reads as a sonnet. As an audience, it’s difficult not to be enthralled and immersed by Eden and Remy. Unfortunately with the abundance of sex on page, the scenes became overdone, leaving me being less interested as time went on. The author is clearly intentional in displaying new kinks to exercise intrigue for the reader, however, it slowly started to crowd the plot, causing me to seek for developments elsewhere.
With the exception of sex, there are plot developments that provide suspense and mystery to the novel. Whilst it’s clear to the audience that Remy is correlated to the disappearances at Carnival, the inclusion of his friends and their rapport with socialite groups—proves that there is a lot more under the surface. Moreover, with Eden’s involvement in the Carnival world, readers witness the lust for blood that grows over time in her POV. Unfortunately even with Eden building rapport with the workers of the Carnival and her assistance in covering up their tracks, the purpose to Eden and his friends actions remain ominous. It’s unclear if this is intentional by the author, but I was still left confused on what exactly the Carnival was for and if their targets were deliberate.
Ultimately, ‘Carnival Shadows’ is an emotionally triggering novel. The audience is taken by fear, to pain, then to affection for a couple who find intimacy in the midst of all the bloodshed. It’s mitigating factors were in the lack of plot development external to the relationship and the overuse of sex to prolong the novel. Otherwise, as the first book read from this author—I am very intrigued.
⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Selena Winters’ ‘Carnival Shadows’ is archetypal in a world of melodramatic suspense and the absence of gratifying passion. In the contemporary world of murder mysteries, readers find Eden Love—a true crime podcaster and furtive lover for blood and murder. Eden has found a new missing person development in accordance to a carnival tour, Carnival of Death, and it recently has set foot in her own backyard. Thriving off the desire of the latest murder mystery, Eden enters the carnival, attempting to find the face behind the missing persons that are lured by the conspicuous carnival show.
Remy is a brooding character, Selena Winters articulates the male MMC as an individual who is hard to not to glance at, holding an authority that is equally gratifying and scary. When Eden meets Remy, all characteristics come to forefront of her mind, and immediately she knows Remy is a party in the missing persons case from Carnival. Although the everyday person would run, Eden cannot stop thinking about the over six foot man, with tattoos dancing on a fibrous body, and the eyes that invite her to taste the same blood he has.
In ‘Carnival Shadows’ readers are privy to the ultimate predator versus prey trope. We watch as Eden’s obsession with Remy increases and Remy’s fascination to tear down the podcaster overwhelms his mind. The two continue to grow their taboo relationship through kinky affairs, and the desire to indulge in the unspeakable sides of murder and sex. Despite the darkness lurking between the two, the author articulates their relationship with affection, using diction that soothes the soul and reads as a sonnet. As an audience, it’s difficult not to be enthralled and immersed by Eden and Remy. Unfortunately with the abundance of sex on page, the scenes became overdone, leaving me being less interested as time went on. The author is clearly intentional in displaying new kinks to exercise intrigue for the reader, however, it slowly started to crowd the plot, causing me to seek for developments elsewhere.
With the exception of sex, there are plot developments that provide suspense and mystery to the novel. Whilst it’s clear to the audience that Remy is correlated to the disappearances at Carnival, the inclusion of his friends and their rapport with socialite groups—proves that there is a lot more under the surface. Moreover, with Eden’s involvement in the Carnival world, readers witness the lust for blood that grows over time in her POV. Unfortunately even with Eden building rapport with the workers of the Carnival and her assistance in covering up their tracks, the purpose to Eden and his friends actions remain ominous. It’s unclear if this is intentional by the author, but I was still left confused on what exactly the Carnival was for and if their targets were deliberate.
Ultimately, ‘Carnival Shadows’ is an emotionally triggering novel. The audience is taken by fear, to pain, then to affection for a couple who find intimacy in the midst of all the bloodshed. It’s mitigating factors were in the lack of plot development external to the relationship and the overuse of sex to prolong the novel. Otherwise, as the first book read from this author—I am very intrigued.
October 30, 2025
The final book in the Carnival series — and what a dark, twisted, and addictive ride this entire journey has been. I stumbled upon book one by accident and ended up devouring them all.
What makes this finale so unique is that for the first time, our main female character is the stalker. Eden Love — even her name sounds dangerous — has her eyes set on one of the Carnie boys. She’s convinced he’s a killer, yet she can’t stay away. The way this story flips the dynamic from prey to predator kept me hooked from start to finish.
Remy, one of the more mysterious Carnie boys, finally gets his moment. We didn’t hear much about him in the earlier books, but as Tyson (the ringmaster) said, Remy always kept to himself. Now, faced with his own stalker, he has to decide — will he let the game play out, or will he take control of the hunt himself?
A perfect dark, obsessive ending to an unforgettable series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 21, 2025
I liked that she stalked him, and I love that he turned it back on her.
This whole series has been red flags on red flags on red flags and honestly I still would absolutely smash every single one of these psychos.
This whole series has been red flags on red flags on red flags and honestly I still would absolutely smash every single one of these psychos.
March 20, 2025
Dark natured female who obsesses over a hot male serial killer... What could go wrong!?
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🌶🌶🌶🌶
Selena has done it again... 🥵🌶🔪➰️ 🖤
CNC and Primal Play is hot and heavy in this book... The FMC is the Stalker and both the MC's have dark tendacies!
I love how the MMC let's her spiral into her Obsession whilst slowing falling into his own. There's only a snippet of torture and cover ups but alot of 🌶 and eventually obsessive love... what more do you want from a dark romance!? 😋
There's woods, screaming, praising, degradation (in a positive way),tying up, bl**d, kni*ves and lot of "good girl" and "c*m for me" 🥵😋
I love all of Selena's books but this is definitely one of my fav!! 🫶🏽🖤
This is book 7 and the final book in the Carnival Series! No major spoilers if you haven't read the other 6. However, all of the couples are in this book so you will see how they all end up. If you'd rather not know the ending before you read the others... definitely start at the beginning with Carnival Nightmare!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🌶🌶🌶🌶
Selena has done it again... 🥵🌶🔪➰️ 🖤
CNC and Primal Play is hot and heavy in this book... The FMC is the Stalker and both the MC's have dark tendacies!
I love how the MMC let's her spiral into her Obsession whilst slowing falling into his own. There's only a snippet of torture and cover ups but alot of 🌶 and eventually obsessive love... what more do you want from a dark romance!? 😋
There's woods, screaming, praising, degradation (in a positive way),tying up, bl**d, kni*ves and lot of "good girl" and "c*m for me" 🥵😋
I love all of Selena's books but this is definitely one of my fav!! 🫶🏽🖤
This is book 7 and the final book in the Carnival Series! No major spoilers if you haven't read the other 6. However, all of the couples are in this book so you will see how they all end up. If you'd rather not know the ending before you read the others... definitely start at the beginning with Carnival Nightmare!
August 20, 2025
End of the series! Loved the epilogue. Enjoyed the journey. I liked the reverse play, the girlie stalker haha
July 14, 2025
I really don't think this book is for me...idk.i have that feeling. I might finish reading it at the end of the year, I only read a few chapters like 4 ¿? so far DNF
September 25, 2025
The realization hits me harder than any punch: I need her. Not just want, not just desire. It’s a need. Like breathing. Like blood in my veins. She’s become essential to my existence in a way that should terrify me but instead makes me want to tear apart anyone who’d try to separate us.
A true crime podcaster with a darkness running through her veins finds herself drawn to the dark and mysterious Remy. From the first moment she glanced at him in the carnival, it sparked an obsession inside of her she never imagined she could possess. Writing entry after entry in her journal, she's laid out every explicit and dominating fantasy, something he was all too inclined to give her. While researching for her next episode, she stumbled upon articles of the carnival in the dark web and the string of disappearances that seem to follow in its wake. Finding herself too close to the truth, it's originally ordered for her to be killed but something inside of her keeps Remy from completing the order. Stalking him while he stalks her, he sees into the obsession as she houses hundreds of photos of him and explicit fantasies inside her motel room after only a few days. When she follows him on a meetup, she sees the brutality and violence as he kills the men who were trying to set him up. Running from him does nothing as he practically kidnaps her from her motel room following the encounter. Confined to his trailer, she is being broken day by day even if it's what she truly craves.
“I love it,” I gasp as he drives deeper. “The blood, the violence, knowing what you’ve done, what you’re capable of; it makes me so wet.” His bloody fingers slide around my throat. “Keep going.”“I’ve interviewed dozens of killers, but none of them made me feel like this.” My words come out breathless. “I want your depravity—need it. The blood on your hands just makes me want you more.” He groans against my neck, his grip tightening. “Such a twisted little thing, getting off on my violence.”“Yes,” I moan, pushing back against him. “I’ve never been more turned on than seeing you covered in blood. Knowing the power you wield…”
Eden Love is sinking faster and faster as her need to him is growing by the day. Finding true madness that mirrors her own, she eagerly helped in the torture and disposal of countless bodies as she warned her trust into the family. Using her skills of reporting to throw off police questioning, Ty recognizes her as an asset and she finds herself experiencing a family she's never imagined. With her own mother killed in a car accident and her father serving a life sentence for a burglary and triple homicide, she's locked into Remy through shared childhoods. Passed from foster family to foster family following his mother's brutal execution by her boyfriend when he was six, he's seen his fair share of abusive foster families until he could finally run and join the circus. As Eden begins to bond with the other woman, she leaned that Lily was pregnant with her first child and within three years time every couple expect for Aurora and Gage are either expecting or have a child of their own. Finally finding the contentment and freedom, everyone is finally learning how to love and settle down.
Let her think she’s the hunter. Let her obsession grow until it consumes her. When she finally breaks, when the last thread of her sanity snaps, I’ll claim her. Not a moment before.
A true crime podcaster with a darkness running through her veins finds herself drawn to the dark and mysterious Remy. From the first moment she glanced at him in the carnival, it sparked an obsession inside of her she never imagined she could possess. Writing entry after entry in her journal, she's laid out every explicit and dominating fantasy, something he was all too inclined to give her. While researching for her next episode, she stumbled upon articles of the carnival in the dark web and the string of disappearances that seem to follow in its wake. Finding herself too close to the truth, it's originally ordered for her to be killed but something inside of her keeps Remy from completing the order. Stalking him while he stalks her, he sees into the obsession as she houses hundreds of photos of him and explicit fantasies inside her motel room after only a few days. When she follows him on a meetup, she sees the brutality and violence as he kills the men who were trying to set him up. Running from him does nothing as he practically kidnaps her from her motel room following the encounter. Confined to his trailer, she is being broken day by day even if it's what she truly craves.
“I love it,” I gasp as he drives deeper. “The blood, the violence, knowing what you’ve done, what you’re capable of; it makes me so wet.” His bloody fingers slide around my throat. “Keep going.”“I’ve interviewed dozens of killers, but none of them made me feel like this.” My words come out breathless. “I want your depravity—need it. The blood on your hands just makes me want you more.” He groans against my neck, his grip tightening. “Such a twisted little thing, getting off on my violence.”“Yes,” I moan, pushing back against him. “I’ve never been more turned on than seeing you covered in blood. Knowing the power you wield…”
Eden Love is sinking faster and faster as her need to him is growing by the day. Finding true madness that mirrors her own, she eagerly helped in the torture and disposal of countless bodies as she warned her trust into the family. Using her skills of reporting to throw off police questioning, Ty recognizes her as an asset and she finds herself experiencing a family she's never imagined. With her own mother killed in a car accident and her father serving a life sentence for a burglary and triple homicide, she's locked into Remy through shared childhoods. Passed from foster family to foster family following his mother's brutal execution by her boyfriend when he was six, he's seen his fair share of abusive foster families until he could finally run and join the circus. As Eden begins to bond with the other woman, she leaned that Lily was pregnant with her first child and within three years time every couple expect for Aurora and Gage are either expecting or have a child of their own. Finally finding the contentment and freedom, everyone is finally learning how to love and settle down.
Let her think she’s the hunter. Let her obsession grow until it consumes her. When she finally breaks, when the last thread of her sanity snaps, I’ll claim her. Not a moment before.
March 20, 2025
Review: Carnival Shadows by Selena Winters
A.K.A. The Book That Ruined My Moral Compass (Again)
Welcome to Carnival Shadows, where your FBI watchlist status is upgraded immediately, and therapy bills start piling up. Selena Winters has officially outdone herself, delivering a dark romance so twisted it made me question if I need to schedule a wellness check for myself. Spoiler: I probably do.
This isn’t just dark romance—this is triple black, lost-in-the-void, sold-your-soul-for-one-night-with-a-psychopath romance. And guess what? The FMC (Eden) isn’t just matching the MMC’s (Remy’s) crazy energy—she’s out here LEADING THE CHARGE. Usually, dark romance heroines have at least one toe dipped in self-preservation. Not Eden. She took self-preservation, yeeted it into the abyss, and said, “I wonder what happens if I stalk a probable serial killer and make it his problem.”
And Remy? He’s over here like, “Ma’am, are YOU okay? Because I’m the one with the body count, but you’re giving me concerns.”
Honestly, their relationship is like a car crash you can’t look away from—except instead of airbags, there’s bondage, knifeplay, and enough red flags to decorate an entire communist parade. And speaking of TRIGGERS, let’s break them down:
🚨 CONTENT WARNINGS 🚨
This book is not for the faint of heart, people who need vanilla in their coffee, or anyone who still thinks romance should be about “healthy communication.” Triggers include:
• Stalking (and not the cute, “oh he remembers my coffee order” kind—no, this is the restraining order on sight kind)
• Psychotic obsession (from BOTH sides, because feminism!)
• Knifeplay, bloodplay, captivity themes (yes, it’s that kind of book)
• Dubious consent, CNC, and a lot of scenes that will have you rethinking your morals
• A hero who is so feral he makes rabid wolves look well-adjusted
• A heroine who will 100% outcrazy him and love every second of it
• Gaslighting, manipulation, and just general unhinged behavior in the name of love
If you read this and say, “Wow, that’s too much for me,”—GOOD. RUN. But if you read that list and went “Omg, where has this been all my life?”—WELCOME, FREAK, YOU ARE HOME.
Winters’ writing is chef’s kiss, full of tension so thick you could cut it with one of the knives Remy probably keeps strapped to his thigh. The spice? Satanic levels of hot. If you don’t walk away from this book needing a cold shower (or three), you’re lying to yourself.
Final verdict? 5/5 therapy sessions recommended. If you love your romance dark, toxic, and full of completely consensual bad decisions, Carnival Shadows is your new obsession.
Also, PSA: If I ever go missing, mind your business.
A.K.A. The Book That Ruined My Moral Compass (Again)
Welcome to Carnival Shadows, where your FBI watchlist status is upgraded immediately, and therapy bills start piling up. Selena Winters has officially outdone herself, delivering a dark romance so twisted it made me question if I need to schedule a wellness check for myself. Spoiler: I probably do.
This isn’t just dark romance—this is triple black, lost-in-the-void, sold-your-soul-for-one-night-with-a-psychopath romance. And guess what? The FMC (Eden) isn’t just matching the MMC’s (Remy’s) crazy energy—she’s out here LEADING THE CHARGE. Usually, dark romance heroines have at least one toe dipped in self-preservation. Not Eden. She took self-preservation, yeeted it into the abyss, and said, “I wonder what happens if I stalk a probable serial killer and make it his problem.”
And Remy? He’s over here like, “Ma’am, are YOU okay? Because I’m the one with the body count, but you’re giving me concerns.”
Honestly, their relationship is like a car crash you can’t look away from—except instead of airbags, there’s bondage, knifeplay, and enough red flags to decorate an entire communist parade. And speaking of TRIGGERS, let’s break them down:
🚨 CONTENT WARNINGS 🚨
This book is not for the faint of heart, people who need vanilla in their coffee, or anyone who still thinks romance should be about “healthy communication.” Triggers include:
• Stalking (and not the cute, “oh he remembers my coffee order” kind—no, this is the restraining order on sight kind)
• Psychotic obsession (from BOTH sides, because feminism!)
• Knifeplay, bloodplay, captivity themes (yes, it’s that kind of book)
• Dubious consent, CNC, and a lot of scenes that will have you rethinking your morals
• A hero who is so feral he makes rabid wolves look well-adjusted
• A heroine who will 100% outcrazy him and love every second of it
• Gaslighting, manipulation, and just general unhinged behavior in the name of love
If you read this and say, “Wow, that’s too much for me,”—GOOD. RUN. But if you read that list and went “Omg, where has this been all my life?”—WELCOME, FREAK, YOU ARE HOME.
Winters’ writing is chef’s kiss, full of tension so thick you could cut it with one of the knives Remy probably keeps strapped to his thigh. The spice? Satanic levels of hot. If you don’t walk away from this book needing a cold shower (or three), you’re lying to yourself.
Final verdict? 5/5 therapy sessions recommended. If you love your romance dark, toxic, and full of completely consensual bad decisions, Carnival Shadows is your new obsession.
Also, PSA: If I ever go missing, mind your business.
November 14, 2025
3.5 stars
- FMC: Eden
- MMC: Remy
- POVs Included: Dual POVs (Eden, Remy)
- Book Playlist (Carnival Book Series Playlist)
-----------------------------------
-----------------------------------
SUMMARY: (SPOILER WARNING)
Eden is a true crime podcaster who catches wind of something fishy brewing at the traveling carnival. So she makes her way there to investigate. Only she gets distracted by one of the workers -- Remy -- who she becomes obsessed with and starts stalking.
Remy speaks to a dark part of her. A part that she has worked hard to keep hidden and buried. But will Remy help Eden embrace her dark side?
-----------------------------------
-----------------------------------
REVIEW:
I liked this. As the final book in the series I thought it was a good wrap up. I also really loved the change of pace since we have the woman stalking the man in this one, which was a different twist.
Remy and Eden are certainly dark. This one might be as close to dark as Gage's book. But, then again, I think Gage is worse since he's the one who just kills random innocent carnival visitors (he's probably who was really behind the trail of missing persons).
Anyways, I thought Eden and Remy had good chemistry together and the steam was hot. Still some repetitive dirty talk going on, but not nearly as much as earlier in this series so I think the author grew a bit there as the series progressed.
Overall I liked it. I liked the extended epilogue and I love that she's going to go back and do books for the Blackwood brothers, who I felt were setup as solid characters who needed their own spinoff. It's been a fun and crazy series and I've enjoyed it.
- FMC: Eden
- MMC: Remy
- POVs Included: Dual POVs (Eden, Remy)
- Book Playlist (Carnival Book Series Playlist)
-----------------------------------
-----------------------------------
SUMMARY: (SPOILER WARNING)
Eden is a true crime podcaster who catches wind of something fishy brewing at the traveling carnival. So she makes her way there to investigate. Only she gets distracted by one of the workers -- Remy -- who she becomes obsessed with and starts stalking.
Remy speaks to a dark part of her. A part that she has worked hard to keep hidden and buried. But will Remy help Eden embrace her dark side?
-----------------------------------
-----------------------------------
REVIEW:
I liked this. As the final book in the series I thought it was a good wrap up. I also really loved the change of pace since we have the woman stalking the man in this one, which was a different twist.
Remy and Eden are certainly dark. This one might be as close to dark as Gage's book. But, then again, I think Gage is worse since he's the one who just kills random innocent carnival visitors (he's probably who was really behind the trail of missing persons).
Anyways, I thought Eden and Remy had good chemistry together and the steam was hot. Still some repetitive dirty talk going on, but not nearly as much as earlier in this series so I think the author grew a bit there as the series progressed.
Overall I liked it. I liked the extended epilogue and I love that she's going to go back and do books for the Blackwood brothers, who I felt were setup as solid characters who needed their own spinoff. It's been a fun and crazy series and I've enjoyed it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 14, 2025
Eden studies serial unalivers and has created a podcast about them, although she's more interested in the 'how' than the 'why'. Remy, a serial unaliver who works at a carnival, has caught her attention. She started stalking him, telling herself it was for his podcast, but it was more than that.
When she passes the staff-only area at the carnival she ends up face to face with him! Remy knew she was following him and had the podcast but he let her interview him anyway as he could swing the narrative in his favour. He noticed that she had a dark side hiding within her and found that intriguing.
It turned out that she did have a darker side and loved all the depraved things he likes and is on board with his lifestyle; it's actually a turn-on for her. The spice was super hot, and they fit really well together!!
The story heats up when they find out that outside sources are saying that Eden was taken against her will and the police try to search the carnival. It was Eden's time to prove that she could fit into their world by helping them get out of the situation.
Overall: 4.25 out of 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐.25
Spice/Heat: 4.5 out of 5 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
Main Characters: Remy & Eden
Nickname: Little Stalker
Darkness: 3 out of 5 🖤🖤🖤
Type of book: MF, Fast Burn, Duel 1st Person POV
Title: Carnival Series- Carnival Shadows: Book 7
Reading Order: Standalone Novella
Epilogue: Yes
Ending Type: HEA
*OTT dominant and protective MMC
*Serial Unaliver
*Degradation/Humiliation/Praise
*CNC
*Primal Play
*No cheating or sharing
⚠️ This book has descriptive parts that may be offensive or triggering to some - Please check the TW/CW before reading! 18+
*I received an early copy of this book & am voluntarily leaving this review.
When she passes the staff-only area at the carnival she ends up face to face with him! Remy knew she was following him and had the podcast but he let her interview him anyway as he could swing the narrative in his favour. He noticed that she had a dark side hiding within her and found that intriguing.
It turned out that she did have a darker side and loved all the depraved things he likes and is on board with his lifestyle; it's actually a turn-on for her. The spice was super hot, and they fit really well together!!
The story heats up when they find out that outside sources are saying that Eden was taken against her will and the police try to search the carnival. It was Eden's time to prove that she could fit into their world by helping them get out of the situation.
Overall: 4.25 out of 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐.25
Spice/Heat: 4.5 out of 5 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
Main Characters: Remy & Eden
Nickname: Little Stalker
Darkness: 3 out of 5 🖤🖤🖤
Type of book: MF, Fast Burn, Duel 1st Person POV
Title: Carnival Series- Carnival Shadows: Book 7
Reading Order: Standalone Novella
Epilogue: Yes
Ending Type: HEA
*OTT dominant and protective MMC
*Serial Unaliver
*Degradation/Humiliation/Praise
*CNC
*Primal Play
*No cheating or sharing
⚠️ This book has descriptive parts that may be offensive or triggering to some - Please check the TW/CW before reading! 18+
*I received an early copy of this book & am voluntarily leaving this review.
March 17, 2025
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice/Steam: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Relationship: MF
Tropes/Triggers: Abduction, stalking, blood play, CNC, degradation, praise, dubcon, masked man, rape roleplay, murder, desecration of grave
Series: Carnival Shadows - Carnival Series #7
Synopsis
FMC Eden is a popular true crime podcaster who has a secret, dark fascination with murder and violence. Upon researching her next topic, she sees information about a string of disappearances linked to a traveling carnival.
MMC Remy works at a traveling carnival, which serves as the legitimate business covering up the secret drug operation.
Eden goes to the carnival to gather information and is instantly drawn to Remy. Her obsession with him overtakes over the story and although she thinks she is the predator, she will soon be the prey.
Review
This is the last book of this series and I would suggest reading all the books in order before this one because all the prior characters make appearances and all the story lines are wrapped up.
I loved that there was no miscommunication or third act break up or some other annoying trope. The main characters grew to understand and embrace each other. It’s sort of a slow burn but then there is a lot of delicious spice. There is a lot of degrading name calling 🥵
It’s bittersweet that this series is over but everything was wrapped up so beautifully and neatly. A group of misfits become a found family who understand and accept each other.
Spice/Steam: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Relationship: MF
Tropes/Triggers: Abduction, stalking, blood play, CNC, degradation, praise, dubcon, masked man, rape roleplay, murder, desecration of grave
Series: Carnival Shadows - Carnival Series #7
Synopsis
FMC Eden is a popular true crime podcaster who has a secret, dark fascination with murder and violence. Upon researching her next topic, she sees information about a string of disappearances linked to a traveling carnival.
MMC Remy works at a traveling carnival, which serves as the legitimate business covering up the secret drug operation.
Eden goes to the carnival to gather information and is instantly drawn to Remy. Her obsession with him overtakes over the story and although she thinks she is the predator, she will soon be the prey.
Review
This is the last book of this series and I would suggest reading all the books in order before this one because all the prior characters make appearances and all the story lines are wrapped up.
I loved that there was no miscommunication or third act break up or some other annoying trope. The main characters grew to understand and embrace each other. It’s sort of a slow burn but then there is a lot of delicious spice. There is a lot of degrading name calling 🥵
It’s bittersweet that this series is over but everything was wrapped up so beautifully and neatly. A group of misfits become a found family who understand and accept each other.
March 19, 2025
This one was… I was half gasping, half anxiety-ridden during this book. It’s a thrill ride of epic proportions that is so darkly sexual and satisfying. Eden profiles serial killers and has an online presence, “Shadow Stories” where she shares her knowledge with the world. What they don’t know is she has a macabre obsession with serial killers and death itself. She documents her obsessions, and satisfies herself with her findings. Her curiosity is sated when she begins chasing the rumors of death that follow a traveling carnival. Once she tracks the carnival down, she is magnetically drawn to Remy, who appears to be a worker with the crew. Stalked or stalker? It becomes a bit of a question when they begin interacting. Who is the obsessed one? And who is the winner in this game of dark drama. I was literally rapt watching this unfold. It’s not predictable or anything one would expect. There are dozens of dark romances and this one sets itself apart from the dialogue, the character interaction and motivations, and how she weaves them together to make their dynamic work. It’s beautiful in a very odd and unsettling way. Bonus that the carnival aspect lends an even deeper level of creepy vibes and skin-tingling action.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 16, 2025
Make sure to check your TWs
I have never read anything from this author, nor did I read the first 6 books in this series. I would suggest reading them in order. I didn’t feel connected to the characters and had a hard time keeping up with who was with who. I was also lost with the plot and things just felt disjointed. I’m not sure if it was because I didn’t read the first books? I had no idea was their “operation” was until the very end. I was also confused why cops showed up suddenly? Was it because of her producer called them or the missing persons along the route? Why did they come back to search? Was that the end of their investigation? Then theres a battle with someone else’s crew and all these woman start talking and acting like military trained professionals watching out for the men (shrugs).
There was a lot of repetition in the dialog and a lot of it, especially between the main characters, was a bit cringy.
Overall all I would say 2.8 but I rounded up due to the amount of spice. It felt randomly placed sometimes, like stuck in an odd points, and maybe a little too frequent but I appreciate the effort.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I have never read anything from this author, nor did I read the first 6 books in this series. I would suggest reading them in order. I didn’t feel connected to the characters and had a hard time keeping up with who was with who. I was also lost with the plot and things just felt disjointed. I’m not sure if it was because I didn’t read the first books? I had no idea was their “operation” was until the very end. I was also confused why cops showed up suddenly? Was it because of her producer called them or the missing persons along the route? Why did they come back to search? Was that the end of their investigation? Then theres a battle with someone else’s crew and all these woman start talking and acting like military trained professionals watching out for the men (shrugs).
There was a lot of repetition in the dialog and a lot of it, especially between the main characters, was a bit cringy.
Overall all I would say 2.8 but I rounded up due to the amount of spice. It felt randomly placed sometimes, like stuck in an odd points, and maybe a little too frequent but I appreciate the effort.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 22, 2025
Remy and Eden are so unhinged together
From the very first moment of this book you get this sense that Eden is going to be just as deranged as Remy but she fights her in her once and desires so hard but he's willing to pull it out of her and be that comfort she needs. The journal she has is a big role in this book and I feel like Remy uses it to his advantage. The things that man says will make you blush and I feel like the banter between the two of them is like spot on and it's hilarious in a way. I also feel she is a strong opponent for the group itself because of how she shows what she brings to the table and I think that singing where she shows Tyson hey this is what I can do to help the crew I think like that's a big part. I couldn't put this down I loved every second of it and the ending makes you cry so much because it's the ending to a series but they are so evolved every single couple in this series and so to see down the line how they all are is just phenomenal is the best way that this book could have ended and the series could have ended you will definitely cry but it's worth it.
From the very first moment of this book you get this sense that Eden is going to be just as deranged as Remy but she fights her in her once and desires so hard but he's willing to pull it out of her and be that comfort she needs. The journal she has is a big role in this book and I feel like Remy uses it to his advantage. The things that man says will make you blush and I feel like the banter between the two of them is like spot on and it's hilarious in a way. I also feel she is a strong opponent for the group itself because of how she shows what she brings to the table and I think that singing where she shows Tyson hey this is what I can do to help the crew I think like that's a big part. I couldn't put this down I loved every second of it and the ending makes you cry so much because it's the ending to a series but they are so evolved every single couple in this series and so to see down the line how they all are is just phenomenal is the best way that this book could have ended and the series could have ended you will definitely cry but it's worth it.
April 28, 2025
I hadn't realized that this was the final book in the series. I may have to come back and change my rating/review if I ever do read the rest of the books. They do get points from me for the HEA even though it wasn't as emotionally moving for me as someone who hasn't read the entire story.
The book wasn't for me. I couldn't understand the dynamics between characters or keep up with the other couples (perhaps it would be different if I read the other books). There wasn't enough to explain the connection between the FMC and MMC for me. No romance/banter/yearning scenes or reason for them to get together other than we already know that they are meant to be love interests.
There was also a line about him putting "his c**k embedded deep in mine" and I couldn't take the book seriously anymore because I thought it was saying she also had male genitalia, but maybe that mistake was more my fault as the reader with poor comprehension.
I think I need to learn to put books down when they no longer interest me or when I spend more time confused and flipping back a few pages to try and understand what is going on. Starting to lose faith in BookTok :(
The book wasn't for me. I couldn't understand the dynamics between characters or keep up with the other couples (perhaps it would be different if I read the other books). There wasn't enough to explain the connection between the FMC and MMC for me. No romance/banter/yearning scenes or reason for them to get together other than we already know that they are meant to be love interests.
There was also a line about him putting "his c**k embedded deep in mine" and I couldn't take the book seriously anymore because I thought it was saying she also had male genitalia, but maybe that mistake was more my fault as the reader with poor comprehension.
I think I need to learn to put books down when they no longer interest me or when I spend more time confused and flipping back a few pages to try and understand what is going on. Starting to lose faith in BookTok :(
October 23, 2025
Remy and Eden's story was an interesting read. I liked that both characters were unhinged but she started the stalking while he "sat back" and watched her do her thing. This story had the hot spice, drama, and violence.
Eden is highly educated and unhinged in her own little way.
Remy we know is unhinged from him popping up in previous stories.
As Eden gets a bit too close to the other operations of the circus, Remy abducts her to learn more about why she's stalking him and so obsessed. As time goes by he sees that she is as unhinged as he is and he becomes obsessed with her as she realizes her true self.
These two have an interesting dynamic that works for them. It was also in question as to whether or not she'd be allowed to stay or become an expendable "toy"--I really like that this was a possibility.
All in all a good read. I really liked the end (three years out) where I could read where everyone was at with their stories. I really did enjoy this series. Even as many of the stories are more fantastical than anything, they all worked well as standalones as well as integrated.
Eden is highly educated and unhinged in her own little way.
Remy we know is unhinged from him popping up in previous stories.
As Eden gets a bit too close to the other operations of the circus, Remy abducts her to learn more about why she's stalking him and so obsessed. As time goes by he sees that she is as unhinged as he is and he becomes obsessed with her as she realizes her true self.
These two have an interesting dynamic that works for them. It was also in question as to whether or not she'd be allowed to stay or become an expendable "toy"--I really like that this was a possibility.
All in all a good read. I really liked the end (three years out) where I could read where everyone was at with their stories. I really did enjoy this series. Even as many of the stories are more fantastical than anything, they all worked well as standalones as well as integrated.
March 22, 2025
She is a podcast her obsessed with true crime and serial killers. She becomes obsessed with tracking the carnival and missing persons. There she meets him and his darkness calls to hers. She can see it in him and she craves it. This is the final book in the Carnival series. Each couple story is its own standalone romance however, characters do pop up in subsequent stories, and I would advise you to read them in order. These are dark stories very morally gray. As with the other stories, these characters engage and behavior that could be triggering to some people. They get excited about danger in life on the edge, they crave it and they indulge it. The story involves mutual stalking, some darker kink, including primal play, but ultimately, they are two people that have found their other half. In the final wrap up to this series, you not only get there happily ever after but you get an overview of all of the characters, which is a great ending for a series.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 17, 2025
Carnival Shadows is the gloriously depraved cherry on top of Selena Winter's already decadent Carnival Series. You could read it on its own, but why deny yourself the pleasure of experiencing the Carnival boys from the very beginning? Treat yourself to the full ride, trust me.
I inhaled this novel in an afternoon. Eden's moral compass? Shall we say complicated? I found myself morbidly fascinated by her chaotic, unhinged, and delightfully depraved thought processes. The moment Remy was introduced I couldn’t help but fall in love with him. His ability to read Eden like a book and use dark witty humor to manipulate and outsmart her? Chef's kiss.
Carnival Shadows treats us with cameos from the entire Carnival family, and the epilogues grand finale is worthy of a fireworks display marking an unforgettable end to the series.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I inhaled this novel in an afternoon. Eden's moral compass? Shall we say complicated? I found myself morbidly fascinated by her chaotic, unhinged, and delightfully depraved thought processes. The moment Remy was introduced I couldn’t help but fall in love with him. His ability to read Eden like a book and use dark witty humor to manipulate and outsmart her? Chef's kiss.
Carnival Shadows treats us with cameos from the entire Carnival family, and the epilogues grand finale is worthy of a fireworks display marking an unforgettable end to the series.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 22, 2025
When you meet your match!
This is the final book in the Carnival Series and it’s featuring Remy and Eden’s story. It’s extremely dark and full of triggers, so be sure to check the authors page to look over the list.
Eden studies psychotic killers for her podcast and now she’s set her focus on Remy due to a report of multiple disappearances around the Carnival. She gets in deep, even resorting to stalking to get closer to Remy. Her obsession blinds her to the fact that Remy is on to her and things are about to get interesting.
This book was different in the sense that Eden is just as twisted and depraved as Remy, she just needed the right environment to be herself. Remy and the Carnival give her that and she doesn’t look back. Overall very well written and detailed. The epilogue gives you a final look into the Carnival family and was just what we needed in the last book. Well done!
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is the final book in the Carnival Series and it’s featuring Remy and Eden’s story. It’s extremely dark and full of triggers, so be sure to check the authors page to look over the list.
Eden studies psychotic killers for her podcast and now she’s set her focus on Remy due to a report of multiple disappearances around the Carnival. She gets in deep, even resorting to stalking to get closer to Remy. Her obsession blinds her to the fact that Remy is on to her and things are about to get interesting.
This book was different in the sense that Eden is just as twisted and depraved as Remy, she just needed the right environment to be herself. Remy and the Carnival give her that and she doesn’t look back. Overall very well written and detailed. The epilogue gives you a final look into the Carnival family and was just what we needed in the last book. Well done!
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 24, 2025
SPOILER ALERT! This is the FINAL book for the series, and oh my gosh am I crying over the idea!
When this book came out, I wasn't looking to finish it all up! But when push comes to shove, there are only so many characters in the carnival. Only so many pairs that can be put together and man oh man... did Remy find his match in our girl Eden, a shockingly well put together true crime podcast host.
Is this a match that anyone sees coming? NOPE. Because hello to all of the dirty dealings and mysterious deaths that are following the carnival around from one town to the next! It's not as if that's a welcoming home for someone who is looking to investigate the possible darker side and maybe even shed some light on it?
But here's the thing. There is SO much more to Eden than first comes to light. She might seem like that well-to-do podcaster, but further down? She has her own darkness. And Remy is going to find out just how dark it goes.
When this book came out, I wasn't looking to finish it all up! But when push comes to shove, there are only so many characters in the carnival. Only so many pairs that can be put together and man oh man... did Remy find his match in our girl Eden, a shockingly well put together true crime podcast host.
Is this a match that anyone sees coming? NOPE. Because hello to all of the dirty dealings and mysterious deaths that are following the carnival around from one town to the next! It's not as if that's a welcoming home for someone who is looking to investigate the possible darker side and maybe even shed some light on it?
But here's the thing. There is SO much more to Eden than first comes to light. She might seem like that well-to-do podcaster, but further down? She has her own darkness. And Remy is going to find out just how dark it goes.
February 3, 2026
I'm sad to see this series end 😭
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
This is the end of the series and that makes me sad. I really enjoyed reading all the books. Some were darker than I expected. But even those were still really good. The stories have a perfect balance between the plots and smut. And let me just say, that smut is on point!!!
Remy focused mainly on keeping the carnival and the illegal operations running smoothly. In the previous books he was the voyeur 🫣 but never had his own partner. Then he meets Eden.
Eden is a crime podcaster. She's intensely into the dark side of life. She studies it, interviews killers, and documents it. She meets Remy and is instantly attracted to this darkness. She stalks him. Her darkness recognizes his. She finds herself thru Remy. They perfectly complement each other. I love how they grow together throughout this story. It starts rough, so prepare yourself. The series ends on a good note with a happy ending 😁
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
This is the end of the series and that makes me sad. I really enjoyed reading all the books. Some were darker than I expected. But even those were still really good. The stories have a perfect balance between the plots and smut. And let me just say, that smut is on point!!!
Remy focused mainly on keeping the carnival and the illegal operations running smoothly. In the previous books he was the voyeur 🫣 but never had his own partner. Then he meets Eden.
Eden is a crime podcaster. She's intensely into the dark side of life. She studies it, interviews killers, and documents it. She meets Remy and is instantly attracted to this darkness. She stalks him. Her darkness recognizes his. She finds herself thru Remy. They perfectly complement each other. I love how they grow together throughout this story. It starts rough, so prepare yourself. The series ends on a good note with a happy ending 😁
March 11, 2025
This is the first book from this author for me.
It is also the last book of this series, however it could be read as a standalone.
If you're looking for dark, depraved and intense, then this is the book for you (and if i had to guess, the whole series might just be what you're looking for).
I wasn't sure what to expect from this book, as i don't typically go for the carnival/spooky trope, but the cover intrigued me, and i jumped right in.
Holy, heck, it did not disappoint! Remy & Eden are perfect for one another! Their dark sides call to each other and .... it's hot!
Other themes: Stalker (she stalks HIM!), CNC, Primal Play, Mask wearing chase scenes, OTT MMC and a FMC with a dark side that no one expected.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
It is also the last book of this series, however it could be read as a standalone.
If you're looking for dark, depraved and intense, then this is the book for you (and if i had to guess, the whole series might just be what you're looking for).
I wasn't sure what to expect from this book, as i don't typically go for the carnival/spooky trope, but the cover intrigued me, and i jumped right in.
Holy, heck, it did not disappoint! Remy & Eden are perfect for one another! Their dark sides call to each other and .... it's hot!
Other themes: Stalker (she stalks HIM!), CNC, Primal Play, Mask wearing chase scenes, OTT MMC and a FMC with a dark side that no one expected.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 19, 2025
dark emotional mysterious tense fast-paced
Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
This dual POV book satisfies a dark stalker romance with a bit of psychological thriller in the mix. The main characters are lovable and easily understood while playing upon the carnival stereotypes for both the employees and the attendees. There is a decent mix of smut with plot to make this read less like an all out smut parade that many erotica labeled books fall into. Some parts of the storyline are easily predictable but the author does a great job at introducing side plots that cause some interesting twists. Overall it’s a solid read for any dark romance lover.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
This dual POV book satisfies a dark stalker romance with a bit of psychological thriller in the mix. The main characters are lovable and easily understood while playing upon the carnival stereotypes for both the employees and the attendees. There is a decent mix of smut with plot to make this read less like an all out smut parade that many erotica labeled books fall into. Some parts of the storyline are easily predictable but the author does a great job at introducing side plots that cause some interesting twists. Overall it’s a solid read for any dark romance lover.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 20, 2025
Thoughts / Synopsis : reverse stalker? SHE is the stalker… yasssss
Overall Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Plot / Storyline 👩🏻💻: 📑📑📑📑
Heat / Burn (slow / fast): 🐢🐢🐇🐇🐇
Darkness: 🖤🖤🖤
Red Flags: 🚩🚩🚩
Kinks: 🫦🫦🫦🫦
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Range of Emotions: 🫣🤭🫦🥵🤣😳
Ending: 👩🏻❤️👨🏻 {HEA}
POV: 👫🏻 {Dual}
⚠️⚠️⚠️spoilers - whole story***
Eden is a true crime podcaster that secretly is not only obsessively infatuated with murder but wants to experience it as well.
Remy is the brute strength to the Carnival.
Once Eden has her sights set on him. She stalks him all over. Remy is aware of course and plays her like a fiddle! He strings her along until he can’t many more. The spice is spicy. She helps guard the carnivals secrets.
The end is 3 years later and they all but Aurora and Gage have kids. It’s wonderful!!!!!
Overall Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Plot / Storyline 👩🏻💻: 📑📑📑📑
Heat / Burn (slow / fast): 🐢🐢🐇🐇🐇
Darkness: 🖤🖤🖤
Red Flags: 🚩🚩🚩
Kinks: 🫦🫦🫦🫦
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Range of Emotions: 🫣🤭🫦🥵🤣😳
Ending: 👩🏻❤️👨🏻 {HEA}
POV: 👫🏻 {Dual}
⚠️⚠️⚠️spoilers - whole story***
Eden is a true crime podcaster that secretly is not only obsessively infatuated with murder but wants to experience it as well.
Remy is the brute strength to the Carnival.
Once Eden has her sights set on him. She stalks him all over. Remy is aware of course and plays her like a fiddle! He strings her along until he can’t many more. The spice is spicy. She helps guard the carnivals secrets.
The end is 3 years later and they all but Aurora and Gage have kids. It’s wonderful!!!!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 21, 2025
This is the second book I have read in this series. Even though I didn’t read all, I was able to follow along and understand what was going on. There was enough details to get the vibe of each character and interest to read the other books.
Although there are parts that edge a line for me, the writing and characters keep the pace moving forward.
I enjoy time with Remy and prefer his perspective. Maybe because he is comfortable where he is and fully exists without prevarication.
The two main characters are finding how they complement each other and explore what that could mean for their future.
Remy brings dining at home and keeping things warm to a whole new level.
I loved the final epilogue that gives a view of Carnival family having some together time.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Although there are parts that edge a line for me, the writing and characters keep the pace moving forward.
I enjoy time with Remy and prefer his perspective. Maybe because he is comfortable where he is and fully exists without prevarication.
The two main characters are finding how they complement each other and explore what that could mean for their future.
Remy brings dining at home and keeping things warm to a whole new level.
I loved the final epilogue that gives a view of Carnival family having some together time.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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