therivingtonreader's reviews
237 reviews

 I actually really enjoyed this. It's sci-fi horror, but it's also got a ton of relationship drama between some pretty selfish assholes and I'm here for it.

My biggest complaint is that I just wish it was longer. I want all the scientific details. What happened to Earth? How did humans come to start living on other planets? What even is "the Gray"? What's going on with Amara's family? This could've been an 800 page novel and I would've eaten it up. 

I really connected with Flora in this book, as much as I think any new(er) mom would. I think she had a lot of the same thoughts I did when my son was a newborn. Of course, this book takes a much darker turn, but the messages are still there.

There are some genuinely creepy parts in this story, and a couple of good twists. The first twist got me GOOD. I had to put the book down for a minute 😂

The only thing I didn't like was the whole "birth tusk" thing?? It felt like an unnecessary addition to what could've just been a ghost/haunting story. It felt like it's only purpose was just a convenient way to end the story.

Holy shit!!!! I loved this so much. I was absolutely giggling and kicking my feet throughout the entire thing. I listened to the audiobook, and the narrator was excellent. She did a great job of capturing Hayden and Hallie's characters, and even some of the cringier lines were read really well. 

I really identified with Hallie while listening to this. I'm pretty sure I've had some of the exact inner thoughts she shared in this story. Seeing her grow from who she was at the beginning of the book to discovering her self-worth by the end was so satisfying and made me feel all fuzzy.

As far as Hayden goes, he's a huge nerd and I absolutely adored him. I don't typically find myself enjoying a lot of hetero romances (unless the MMC is not human lol), but this was so sweet and Hayden felt authentic and realistic. I loved that he was so passionate about what he does, no matter what anyone thought about it.

Anyway, everyone should read this :)

I adore M.L. Rio's writing, and this novella was no exception to her talent. I loved the story, the mystery, the cover, and the characters. I was so intrigued by the mystery that I couldn't wait to find out what happened and I finished this in one sitting.

My only gripe with this book, however, is that the ending is so abrupt. Ambiguity is one thing, but this just felt like we got nothing 😭

Don't let the opinions of the ending deter you from reading this though, because it was still an excellent read. I'd definitely recommend this if you enjoyed Rio's other book, If We Were Villains.

Nat Cassidy is a genius. This story does not slow down or give you a chance to even catch your breath, so be ready for all the twists and turns Mary throws at you. 

This book is insanely unique and full of cults, ghosts, gore, and some serious "good for her" moments. One second I'd find myself laughing at a ridiculous line, and the next I'd be scared to turn the page. 

Mary is brilliant and will probably be one of my favorite reads this year. If you haven't picked up anything by Nat Cassidy yet, here's your sign to do that right now!!