Review
Unhinged by Steph Macca is my latest proof that I enjoy dark romance. The title alone describes the characters and their darkest thoughts. But no trigger warning is off limits when it comes to showing how they live up to it.
The Dance with My Demons series, while originally indie published, will now be going trad. So if you’re like me and immediately needed to know how the story continues (I finished the second book in like two days), you don’t have to wait. But if you want these beautiful new covers to grace your shelves, then you’ll have to keep an eye on the release dates.
Most of the story is through Avery’s POV, but we do get some insight into Grey, Damon, and Theo POVs as well. The characters are interesting and their circumstances are unfortunate. And because their reasons for being there are disturbing, they make the best of what they have (to say the least). They either work the system, or simply DGAF.
The author paces the story well, offers great dialogue, and keeps us wanting more with each turn of events. While I always enjoy sexual/romantic tension and attraction between characters, I wish the author would have described their physical appearances more. How hot were these young men supposed to be? How much is Avery lusting after them and vice versa? I need to know!
Avery becomes involved with more than one person. So yes, this series is marketed as a “why choose,” but the first book alone doesn’t encompass it. Without giving too much away, I’ll just say it doesn’t follow a true “why choose” formula until the second book. Nevertheless, watching student-inmates reveal their possessive and protective sides definitely makes for delicious entertainment.
Other shortcomings for Unhinged centers around Damon. There’s no explanation as to how he has amassed so much power in the facility, and seems to have everyone – peers and guards alike – in the palm of his hand. But then again, it’s likely more fleshed out in further installments (I’m only halfway through the series and we only get a peek). And you better believe I’m itching to find out.
As mentioned earlier, readers should be aware of trigger warnings. They include murder, suicide, substance abuse, sexual assault, violence, death of a loved one, child abuse/neglect, and severe mental illness.
Steph Macca joins the Cantina Book Club Podcast to talk about her experience going trad, and navigating dark themes. Keep an ear out for the episode and pick up a new copy of Unhinged, out October 20.
Book
Welcome to the Lilydale Foundation Center… home of second chances.
At least, that’s what they tell us it is. It’s basically a glorified prison and asylum for the deranged with good alibis.
When the police pulled me out of my burning home, along with what was left of my Father, I was deemed broken—even if I was the reason the fire started.
So, here I am at my new home. They think they can save us with their fancy facility. But what insane person decided it was a good idea to put a bunch of young, unhinged people together?
It’s just asking for trouble.
