The Burning Roses

Thornes & Roses #0.5

by Dani René

USA Today bestselling author, Dani René, brings you a new adult, gothic short story. An introduction into Thorne Haven, and the twisted game of the six men who rule the town.

Thorne Haven is a gothic town founded by two families.

Secrets have hidden themselves within the walls of Thorne manor and Haven castle. But as time passed and the ancestors were forgotten, the six boys—three Thorne brothers and three Haven siblings found their love of the darkness. Whether it ran through their veins, or if they were just called to it.

They had become addicted to the exhilaration that came with the forbidden.

And so, the game was born.

The Burning Roses.

Venture into the darkness with the men of Thorne Haven.

Please note: This is a short story which introduces you to the characters of Thorne Haven.

Genres: Romance, Dark, Novella, Dark Romance, Suspense, Mystery, Family

100 pages, Paperback

First published August 19, 2021

About the author

Dani is a USA Today Bestselling Author of dark and deviant romance with a seductive edge.

Originally from Cape Town, South Africa, she now lives in the UK where she explores old buildings and cemeteries while plotting her next book.

When she's not writing, she can be found binge-watching the latest TV series, or working on graphic design either for herself, or other indie authors.

She enjoys reading books about handsome villains and feisty heroines, mostly dark, always seductive, and sometimes depraved. She has a healthy addiction to tattoos, coffee, and ice cream.

You can find more information on her website, www.danirene.com, or find her on social media, Instagram and Facebook being her favorites. Along with her newsletter, which you can sign up for here - https://bit.ly/DaniVIPs

Find me online: Facebook Page | BookBub Page | Instagram | Amazon Page | TikTok | Pinterest

Reviews

[25 Readings Or More · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you read A cut so deep and A high so sweet, you know the meaning of the burning roses... 🥀🥀
So if you really want to know how the boys play.... READ IT 😏😏😏

Giving us this prequel was an amazing idea, because not only Dani explained us how this game between the Thorne and Haven' brothers began, but she managed to make each character so f*cking appealing, I can’t help now wanting their story!!!

[Kelly_Reads_Books · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fabulous glimpse into the psyche and deviance of these men from Thorne Haven. Such a delectable snapshot, giving us clues to the burnt roses and how it began.
So excited for more!

[Joy Westerfield · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love when an author does a prequel. It gets you all ready and excited for books that are part of it. Sometimes they even write it after a book or two has been written, which is the case with this prequel. I really enjoyed both A Cut So Deep and A High So Sweet and was intrigued to find out how these stories came to be.

This prequel introduces you to the Thorne’s and the Haven’s. Two families whose children formed a friendship like no other. You will meet Damien, Cassian, and Finn Thorne along with Creed, Keirin and Brody Haven. Each character is all alpha and all unique. You get to know a little bit about each one and find out about something they dreamed up one night that will make you shiver with excitement. I loved everything about this and you will too!

[Paula Phillips · Rating 4 out of 5]

This past week has been a really bad week for reading as I have managed to read fewer books than those that were DNFs. I needed something to grab me anything, so I went scrolling through my kindle looking at titles that looked good. I knew Dani Rene was good for dark romances. The Burning Roses are the prequel to the Thornes and Roses series. The Thornes and Roses represent a set of brothers that look like they are two families that were fostered together and brought into one house. Each brother has a darkness about them, that makes them dangerous, sexy, and mysterious. They are all different degrees but have a few things in common, they are wealthy, love sex, and are damaged. When Damian returns home from college for the break, Creed - the one who comes up with the crazy ideas decides to play a game. Each week they will pick a girl and leave a burning rose on her doorstep and play a game of cat and mouse. When she is caught, they each can have their way with her. Each girl knows what to expect and each is a willing participant. The boys as we also read, each have one girl who is "special" to them but they will punish themselves as they believe they aren't capable of truly loving anyone. Yes, it's going to be one of those series. I am now looking forward to reading as a couple of the brothers caught my attention and I would like to know more of their stories.

[Coco.V]

🎁 FREE on Amazon & on Apple iBooks today (8/17/2021)!🎁

[Wonder Tre Reads -Tre Harris · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fast paced read that brings us to the creation of the burning roses game. A quick read that will have you aching for more. The queen of tease has done it yet again, I want more of Creed and hope there’s a story for him in the future.

[Maryann Gestwicki · Rating 4 out of 5]

In "The Burning Roses," Dani René transports readers into the chillingly atmospheric world of Thorne Haven, a gothic town steeped in mystery and dark allure. This new adult, gothic short story serves as an introduction to a place where secrets are as deeply rooted as the town's history itself.

Thorne Haven, founded by two enigmatic families, Thorne and Haven, hides more than just its past within the walls of Thorne Manor and Haven Castle. Over generations, the descendants of these families have become entranced by the darkness that pervades their lineage. Dani René weaves a tale around six individuals—three Thorne brothers and three Haven siblings—who are not only bound by blood but also by a twisted game they play amidst the shadows.

The allure of forbidden desires and the rush of the unknown fuel the hearts of these characters, drawing them deeper into the darkness that surrounds Thorne Haven. René masterfully builds tension and intrigue, creating an irresistible pull that keeps readers on edge as they navigate the secrets and mysteries hidden within the town's confines.

The characters themselves are complex and compelling, each grappling with their own demons and desires. From the Thorne brothers to the Haven siblings, René delves into their psyches, unraveling layers of darkness and vulnerability that add depth to their involvement in the game of "The Burning Roses." Through vivid prose and evocative descriptions, René paints a vivid picture of Thorne Haven, making it feel like a character in its own right—an entity with a life and history of its own.

What stands out most in "The Burning Roses" is René's ability to blend elements of gothic fiction with a modern narrative style, creating a story that feels both timeless and contemporary. The themes of forbidden love, dark obsession, and the thrill of the unknown resonate throughout the narrative, captivating readers from the very first page.

Overall, "The Burning Roses" by Dani René is a spellbinding introduction to the world of Thorne Haven—a place where darkness reigns and secrets lurk around every corner. With its compelling characters, atmospheric setting, and tantalizing storyline, this novella promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of gothic romance and intrigue.

"The Burning Roses" is a must-read for fans of gothic fiction and anyone who enjoys a tale where darkness and desire collide in the most seductive of ways. Dani René proves once again why she is a USA Today bestselling author with this captivating and haunting story.

[Diane · Rating 5 out of 5]

I voluntarily reviewed a copy of "THE BURNING ROSES" This was a very interesting, entertaining, unique prequel to "The Thornes & Roses" series, you get to learn a bit about the Thorne & Haven brothers before reading each of their stories.
Their have been secrets between Thorne Manor & Haven Castle all but forgotten but the Damien, Cassian & Finn Thorne are BF's with Creed, Keiran & Brody Haven who all have their own secrets & darkness.
Creed is the mastermind behind the game "The Burning Rose" the boys want to spice thing's up a little while all home first game played with Mali who agreed to everything after being caught in the woods by the boys.
I definitely want to read the next book "A Cut So Deep" Damien's story to see how the game progresses then "A High So Sweet" Cassian's story to follow so looking forward to more of these boys.

[rebecca · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ok, so I read this book in 30-40 minutes and I wrote some words about each boy:

Damien - intriguing but he scares me
Finn - simp, the cutest I can feel it
Cassian - the sweetest, already taken
Creed - the weirdo, definitely
Brody - a little weird too, but okay
Keirin - he’s cut deep

This is definitely entertaining, I'm still waiting to understand things better because in this book I got to see each boy and the main idea. The idea is original and now I can't stop thinking about which boy will have the first volume. Damien, I think. I'm soooo afraid but so ready for it ughhhh

I love that she introduced each character before letting us read their story separately. LOVED IT CANT WAIT TO READ MORE

[Lisa White · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Burning Roses is the prequel to the Thorns & Roses series. As this is a short story that takes place before A cut so Deep and a High so Sweet it gives a insight on how the game began. I loved reading this prequel after reading book 1 and 2, because it gave me that something extra about the books. Loved going back and learning something new about the stories characters and how they came about.

The bonus part of the prequel is we just don't get one point of view, we get, Damien, Cassian and Finn Thorne along with the Creed, Keirin and Brody Haven. Now I just can't wait to read all their stories!!

Dark introduction in the lives of men of Thorne Haven.

[Lilith *EUPHORIA_READS_* · Rating 5 out of 5]

𝐑𝐄𝐕𝐈𝐄𝐖 𝐅𝐎𝐑 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐁𝐎𝐎𝐊: THE BURNING ROSES.
𝐆𝐄𝐍𝐑𝐄: CONTEMPORARY ROMANCE.
𝐓𝐑𝐎𝐏𝐄: DARK THEMES, ANTIHEROES.
𝐓𝐘𝐏𝐄: PREQUEL .
𝐀𝐔𝐓𝐇𝐎𝐑: DANI RENE.
𝐏𝐎𝐕: FIRST-PERSON: MULTIPLE PERSPECTIVE.
𝐑𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐍𝐆: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

𝐒𝐓𝐄𝐀𝐌 𝐋𝐄𝐕𝐄𝐋: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
𝐂𝐇𝐀𝐑𝐀𝐂𝐓𝐄𝐑 𝐃𝐄𝐕𝐄𝐋𝐎𝐏𝐌𝐄𝐍𝐓:🤠🤠🤠🤠
𝐖𝐎𝐑𝐋𝐃 𝐁𝐔𝐈𝐋𝐃𝐈𝐍𝐆:🌎🌎🌎🌎🌎
𝐄𝐘𝐄 𝐂𝐀𝐓𝐂𝐇𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐂𝐎𝐕𝐄𝐑:🦋🦋🦋🦋

𝐏𝐄𝐑𝐒𝐎𝐍𝐀𝐋 𝐓𝐀𝐊𝐄:
And we are back to the town of Throne Haven, which hides oh so many secrets. In my words, this is not just a prequel but an inside to the soul of this town itself and all the secrest harboring inside it.

If you have read Damien and Cassian's book then you know what a dominating and amazing Antiheroes they were but you have no idea what more is in store for us. Creed, Kieran, Brody , Finn....I can't wait to get their books now...Just a little glimpse inside their head was enough for me to crave their darkness.

[Teresa Juckett (Love Dark Reads) · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the the prequel to where it all begins with the introduction of the 6 son's from the Thorne's and the Haven's family. Brother's Damien, Cassian, Finn of the Thorne family. Brother's Creed, Brody, Kierin of the Haven family and how the game called The Burning Roses started. They all can feel the darkness that calls to them some more than others as we're introduced to each one of them in this story.
There's darkness and secrets that surrounds this little small town that some want to keep buried never to see daylight and like a moth to a flame these boy's especially one who wants to reveal all the secrets, so grab this book it's a quick read and welcome to Thorne Haven.

[Michelle Austin · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Burning Roses (Thornes & Roses #0.5) by Dani René was a great 5 star read.
Loved reading the novella to this great series.

It was great getting a glimpse at how the game was created. The Thorne and Haven boys were bored and decided to try something a little different. Seeing all of the characters' thoughts really pulled me into the story and we get to know them a little better as well. I love all these guys even more and this series. We also get a sneak peek at A Cut so Deep and A High so Sweet.

I can’t wait to read more from this series and author. 1-click and get started today.

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.

[Midniteillusion · Rating 1 out of 5]

DNF
Not for me. I didn’t realize it was college kids or I wouldn’t have even started it, but it’s short so I planned to finish it as a quick read. But it was disgusting. Way too much toxic masculinity and misogyny. I don’t find any if that sexy in fiction or real life. It’s especially frightening to read about it as a game of sexual conquest of people in their late teens early twenties when we know sexual assault (which is what this game comes off as) is rampant on college campuses. Though this story takes place in their hometown it has a yucky-frat vibe to it.

I do not recommend it. There are much better cat-and-mouse books out there.

[Maria Hunt · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Burning Roses was the perfect introduction  to the Thorne and Roses series and the men of Thorne Haven. I loved the tantalizing glimpses of each of the six men that gave me just enough to leave me needing more of them. With just the right mix of intrigue and hint of darkness this prequel left me wanting my own burned rose. If this spicy little read is any indication I'm rather excitedly waiting to get my needy little hands on all of their stories though I already feel like I may have a favorite one or two... or six.

[jamies_bookreads · Rating 4 out of 5]

4/stars & 3/Spice

This is just a short glimpse into the wicked game they play. I loved the start of this storyline and can’t wait to dive into the series. It's a naughty taboo game of cat and mouse, where one girl is selected to be the mouse for these amazing sounding guys. Damien, Cassian, Finn, Creed, Brody and Keirin all make an appearance in some way or another. (TW 18+)

Thornes & Roses Trilogy is three books
Damien - A Cut so Deep - available now
Cassian - A High so Sweet - available now
Finn - A Death to Seek - coming March 2022

This will also lead into another Trilogy featuring Creed, Broody, and Keirin (TBA).

[Shae · Rating 5 out of 5]

Quick, informative read that will have you excited to read the series!

Ohhh what an eye-opener and also whets my appetite to learn about the Haven crew and more too about the town these stories all occur in!!

In A Cut So Deep and also in A High So Sweet, there is a game played that involves burned roses and running in the woods. Those were always scenes with excitement, tension and maybe a bit stressful yet high anticipated for the girls.

The Burning Roses gives us background knowledge regarding who invented this game and how the first one was played. In this prequel, we also learn a little more about each of the Haven brothers. These guys sound even darker than the Thorne boys!! I can't wait to read their stories!!

[Hanan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Welcome to the world of Thorne Haven.
Where Ms. Rene introduces the six young men, three Thorne brothers and three Haven.
Each guy has a secret he hides.
Some darkness.
Some omnibus.
And some down right dirty.
If you’ve read A Cut so Deep and A High so Sweet, you already know the game and the darkness within.
If not then after reading this short dynamic prequel get to reading Damien and Cassian’s story ASAP!
I’m so looking forward to Finn’s story 😍

[Zelda · Rating 5 out of 5]

This prequel is a fantastic introduction to some of the characters of the Thornes & Roses series. These wealthy, decadent men decide to create a debauched game, and through this, we learn so much about their characters. A wonderful primer for the series. A quick read but you’ll definitely want more of this world when you’re done.

I received a copy of this book. My honest opinion is voluntarily provided.

[Wall to Wall Bookshelves · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Burning Roses is the prequel to the Thornes and Roses series.

It's an exciting addition which gives us an introduction to the boys of Thorne Haven and the game they play.

If like me you've read A Cut so Deep and A High so Sweet you've already been introduced to the game and were probably wondering how the game came to be.
If this is your starting point, welcome to Thorne Haven and enjoy the ride.

[Ahima Booklover · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 stars for the 3 thorne brothers and 3 haven siblings

This prequel is just devilishous enough to get all my bells ringing like a freaking choir. Because this 6 guys are gonna be bad. The way they are introduced here in a game of cat and mouse fu#k game was entertaining, hot, forbidden and still unputdownable. Just the way I know Dani René makes you addicted to the darkish life. Here it's unavoidable to see, where they end up and with whom.

[Julie Workman|Bookaholic Sisters Blog · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh how I love the Thorn brothers.
Weve already met Damien and cassian,  i absolutely love them so was excited to meet them and everyone else on a deeper level.  I loved the multiple pov, all the boys have there own quirks and I cant wait to find out more about what they are. I devoured this so fast and loved every word.
In true dani fashion burning roses has left me reeling and desperate for more

[Jean Dewsbury · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Burning Roses. The prequel to development of the Thorne Haven men.
Dark mysterious dangerous and slightly unhinged secrets.
This short novella was a completely brilliant way to introduce the characters and hints at what's to come.
A dark inside into the world they live in and teasing to the darkness within each character.
A must read.

[Linda Dunn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Let the Games Begin!!

This prequel is an extraordinary peek into the fascinating and devious minds of the Thorne Haven men. This is delicious on so many levels. Having already read A Cut So Deep and A High So Sweet, this was a treat to read. We have already been introduced to Cassian and Damien and I cannot wait to see what the other men will have in store for us.

[Jessica Jarvis · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great prequel to the Thorn Haven world. I loved that we get a glimpse of each or the six brothers and the creation of their sinister game which is mentioned in books one and two of the series.

If you love this series, you definitely need to read Damien and Cassius’s books! I’m eager for the rest of the books to come out!!!🔥🔥🔥🔥

[Mom2three · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the prequel to Ms. Rene's deliciously dark series, Thorn and Roses. It gives us an introduction to all the sexy men and explains how it all began. Really, all it does is make you want to dive in to the full-length books as soon as you read the last word. Luckily, the first 2 books are already out so you don't have to wait. I recommend reading them right now!

[Ola Adamska · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ms. Rene decided to write the prequel to the Thorn & Roses series, which makes me so happy, as it allows us t meet six troubled souls in their teens, that we will know as adults in their full books! We will get to see thru each of them and this was a bull's eye! As I got interested in ALL of them, each dark, each strong, each deadly!
I can't wait to read about all of them!

[Deb · Rating 5 out of 5]

The author wrote a tantalizing prequel that only makes the anticipation grow for this series. The characters are fascinating and I can’t wait to get to know them better. The premise is intriguing and I anticipate plenty of shenanigans are ahead with an edgy darkness permeating throughout the series. Nicely done.

[Nicole · Rating 3 out of 5]

I picked up this as it was blurbed as a taboo romance. I thought it was not too risky since this is less than 90 pages. Thorne Haven has two wealthy families with three sons each who are popular - apparently all women want them. Creed, one of the sons devised a game for the six of them while bored one summer where each of them chooses a girl and leaves a burning rose on her doorstep, if she accepts, she will meet them unknowingly in the forest of the town and they will all chase her and have their way with her or just watch. I did not like most of the six guys and the way Keirin speaks about the females in this town felt so objectifying….all women are like this.

Most of them are either in college. Some of them have trauma from their past that is hinted at.

I wound not read further.

“‘Even before we started this game, the rumour around school is that being taken by one of the six of us is like an award earned’”
Page 50, chapter 7, Keirin

“‘Most of the women in this town enjoy the rough degradation we offer. It’s almost as if their pristine, little lives aren’t exciting enough to keep their interest.’”
Page 51, chapter 7, Keirin

Tropes: Small town, bad boys

[Tammy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved the introduction into this dark world these boys have created. The game has been thought up, started and the first one a success. Thorne Haven has so many secrets I can not wait for more of all these boys turned into men.