Reviews with content warning for Rape - Butcher & Blackbird: The Ruinous Love Trilogy, Book 1

BRB - I'm going to get myself an exorcism.

The Setup: Butcher and Blackbird is a dark romance that weaves together elements of horror, thriller, and romance in a unique and gripping narrative. The story revolves around two vigilante serial killers, Sloane Sutherland, known as 'Orb Weaver,' and Rowan Kane, known as 'Boston Butcher.' Their shared mission to rid the world of other serial killers is a product of their traumatic pasts, driving the plot forward.

Sloane's character is complex, marked by her dark artistry as she turns her kills into macabre webs. Her life turns when she meets Rowan, who shares her mission. Their relationship evolves from rivalry to deep affection, all while they navigate the horrible world they inhabit. Rowan, who balances his brutal side with a nurturing role as a chef and caretaker for his brothers, finds himself drawn to Sloane, and the two engage in an annual deadly competition to find and kill the worst of humanity.

The novel delves deep into the character's internal struggles, the impact of their pasts, and the unlikely romance that blossoms between two people who live on the edge of humanity. The narrative's blend of horror elements, emotional depth, and dark romance makes it a standout for readers who enjoy stories that push boundaries and explore the darker sides of love and justice.

What I Liked: Goodness, goodness me. First and foremost, I did not believe I would like this book. It blew up on TikTok, and I firmly believed that this would be like Haunting Adeline - a crime through and through, and I wouldn't be able to feel how people could read this. Well, parts of it are still most certainly a crime, but I ended up enjoying this way more than I thought. Truth be told, I was going to rate this a 4.5 up until about 60% and then near the end. I'm even tempted to bring it up to 4 stars because it had a good plot twist I didn't see coming, which I always appreciate. Overall, these characters were fantastic, and I enjoyed them a lot. The plot was ridiculous, but it made sense (well, kind of), and overall, I LOVED the slow burn aspect of this book. The development of the side characters was also a lovely touch, and I am interested in seeing what Weaver produces in the future with some of the other characters. I was hooked, to be honest, and I couldn't put this book down. Not only was it interesting, but Weaver made it funny. I did laugh out loud in many places. As mentioned, a pretty good plot twist near the end was an interesting touch. Overall, I had a good time.

What Was Just a Bit Off: Ugh, I am not a dark romance girly in my core. Albeit this is the best one I've read, I can't get on board the very demanding and unrelenting male character, particularly during sexual instances. Around 60% of the way through, when the two characters finally got together, it seemed that the book mostly turned into erotica and porn, which I want to go on record is NOT a bad thing, but it just took away from the story for me. And I feel this way about most spicy romances with dark, brooding, and demanding men. Regardless, this book started feeling flat for me once they got together. Additionally, during the plot twist, I think the way Rowan handled the situation was out of character for him - he would've found another way around saying those words, even if they had some hidden messages in them [yes, I am vague due to spoilers!]. I loved Sloane's character through and through, though.

I just can't believe I read this, and I am so glad I did. While it's not the highest rating I've ever given, it's a big star in my book for some dark romance. Weaver is a good writer who can piece together a fabulous narrative with witty humor. Bravo!

Please be advised of the trigger warnings in the front of the book. It is NOT for highly sensitive folks or those who regularly get squeamish. I was sensitive to only one part about someone getting beaten (I struggle with that in books, movies, etc.), but there is some intense gore, body horror, and violence. Additionally, there are some fierce sexual scenes - all consensual and done well, but wow, was it a lot. Please take care of yourself first!

Content Warnings

torrentsofhayl's review against another edition

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adventurous dark emotional funny tense medium-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

3.75

Content Warnings

readingwithacoffee's review against another edition

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adventurous dark emotional funny mysterious tense fast-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

5.0

I loved this so much more than I probably should have considering it’s a book about murderers! Oh how I love Rowan though! I stayed up until 2.30am to finish this book because I couldn’t put it down. Also if you can listen to the audiobook, really enhances the reading experience.

Content Warnings

klaudiao's review against another edition

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dark funny slow-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? No

2.5

Content Warnings

tanjalunney's review against another edition

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dark fast-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

Content Warnings

you_fanci_me_mad's review against another edition

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adventurous dark funny lighthearted mysterious tense medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
Flaws of characters a main focus? No

5.0

I had already read this book and loved it. I knew I had to listen to the audio book because Irish accents are my weakness. The only thing I didn't love about the audio book was in some instances the narrator voicing Sloane felt more whiney than I had originally pictured the character. But who knows, that was just my interpretation of the book, maybe the author directed her on how she thought Sloane should sound. It was a small thing that didn't take away from my enjoyment of the book. I am mad that the bonus chapter is not included, I was so looking forward to hearing

the dragon onesie

scene brought to life.

Content Warnings

linsey13's review against another edition

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adventurous dark emotional mysterious fast-paced

Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes

5.0

Content Warnings

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