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Dance With My Demons #1
Unhinged
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.
Unhinged is a why-choose dark romance. It contains adult themes, sensitive topics, and is solely intended for mature audiences over 18. It is recommended that readers check the trigger warnings before diving in. Unhinged is book 1 in the Dance with my Demons series.
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.
Unhinged is a why-choose dark romance. It contains adult themes, sensitive topics, and is solely intended for mature audiences over 18. It is recommended that readers check the trigger warnings before diving in. Unhinged is book 1 in the Dance with my Demons series.
227 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 27, 2024
1810 people are currently reading
7759 people want to read
About the author
Steph Macca
29books583followersSteph is an author and lawyer who made the switch to write chaotic dark romance and why choose novels. She loves watching UFC, is a Swiftie and enjoys training karate when her dodgy ankle allows. She also has a crippling addiction to caffeine and cliterature.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 643 reviews
March 28, 2024
'𝐔N𝐇I𝐍G𝐄D' Is the first full length book within the 'Dance with my demons' series, by new to me author Steph Macca.
Of course I didn't buy this because of the cover 🙄 *Coughs*
* checks to see if loves cliffys is written on forehead* because of course I fall down another cliffy, adding to the count of 3 this week!!
I was intrigued as soon as I saw this doing the rounds, first the cover, then the synopsis, soon as it went live my cover hoe eyes decided to purchase it, thank god that decision paid off otherwise I'd be stuck with a freaky cover and a shitty book.
But anyways this pulled me in straight away and I pretty much read it in one sitting and then I reached the end and of course I fell down that cliffy, here's hoping the next book isn't too far away.
Lilydale Foundation Center is the very first of it's kind where they strive to rehabilitate them into a functioning member of society, this is their second chance before prison. It all looks normalish from the outside from a glance until you clap eyes on the the many men carrying guns who are geared up like a swat team. Then step inside and each area is controlled by a two way system accessed by a staff card and code bearing the only way to access the patients rooms.
Being diagnosed with a mental disorder is Avery's saving grace otherwise she'd be on a fast track to prison after the death of her father in a fire which she started.
At the very beginning of Avery's incarceration she appeared very timid basically jumping at her own shadow, but as the story unfolds we see her strength shining through and this girl has got a bit bite to her.
Then we have the boys, and a secret society of sorts 'Cirque des Morts' an exclusive group that no one outside of their circle can ever know about.
Damon: She calls him Demon boy which is kind of fitting for his character, he seems to be running the show more than the actual people running the place.
Grey: Is Damon's right hand man these two have been friends for some time, he was attracted to Avery from the get go, he appeared happy go lucky but as we delved deeper into the storyline this guy can jump pretty quickly into the darkness.
Theo: He's been incarcerated for the last three years here, everyone gave this guy a wide berth, but he also became my top favourite, the dark tattooist who sits by himself until she steps into his personal space each and every day as she sits at his table each meal time. In his own way, he protects her as much as he can in this place.
Of course I didn't buy this because of the cover 🙄 *Coughs*
* checks to see if loves cliffys is written on forehead* because of course I fall down another cliffy, adding to the count of 3 this week!!
I was intrigued as soon as I saw this doing the rounds, first the cover, then the synopsis, soon as it went live my cover hoe eyes decided to purchase it, thank god that decision paid off otherwise I'd be stuck with a freaky cover and a shitty book.
But anyways this pulled me in straight away and I pretty much read it in one sitting and then I reached the end and of course I fell down that cliffy, here's hoping the next book isn't too far away.
Lilydale Foundation Center is the very first of it's kind where they strive to rehabilitate them into a functioning member of society, this is their second chance before prison. It all looks normalish from the outside from a glance until you clap eyes on the the many men carrying guns who are geared up like a swat team. Then step inside and each area is controlled by a two way system accessed by a staff card and code bearing the only way to access the patients rooms.
Being diagnosed with a mental disorder is Avery's saving grace otherwise she'd be on a fast track to prison after the death of her father in a fire which she started.
At the very beginning of Avery's incarceration she appeared very timid basically jumping at her own shadow, but as the story unfolds we see her strength shining through and this girl has got a bit bite to her.
Then we have the boys, and a secret society of sorts 'Cirque des Morts' an exclusive group that no one outside of their circle can ever know about.
Damon: She calls him Demon boy which is kind of fitting for his character, he seems to be running the show more than the actual people running the place.
Grey: Is Damon's right hand man these two have been friends for some time, he was attracted to Avery from the get go, he appeared happy go lucky but as we delved deeper into the storyline this guy can jump pretty quickly into the darkness.
Theo: He's been incarcerated for the last three years here, everyone gave this guy a wide berth, but he also became my top favourite, the dark tattooist who sits by himself until she steps into his personal space each and every day as she sits at his table each meal time. In his own way, he protects her as much as he can in this place.
June 2, 2025
� My Thoughts & Rating �
This dark romance novel is UnhingedAF! It had a strong start and left me with a cliffhanger so big that I had to read the next book in the series right after! While this is not the most unhinged book that I’ve read, it did live up to its name. The premise of this book is what initially hooked me.
I read the digital copy of this book on my kindle, while listening to it as an audiobook. The narrators did a great job and I definitely recommend listening to this book! This is a fast paced read that contains a morally grey male main character and a traumatic female main character. It is written in multiple points of views, with the 2 main characters being most of the POV’s. The atmosphere in this book is chilling, dark and chaotic. The FMC Avery seems to be like a puzzle that I am trying to figure out in the book. As the story progresses, we learn more about the characters themselves, the institution they are in and the people running the institution is like! Overall, I give this book a 4 out of 5 stars!
� Themes in this book �
The themes explored in this book are manipulation and control, trauma and healing, finding self worth, trauma and healing, and the nature of good versus evil.
� Synopsis �
“Unhinged� follows a group of young adults in a facility. It centers around a girl named Avery. While this is facility is for the unhinged, what happens in this facility is unhinged as well. A lot of wild things happening in there and you are at the edge of your seat wanting to know what happens next!
� Who I think would enjoy this book & Content Warnings �
I think if you’re a fan of the movie “Girl, Interrupted� you would enjoy reading this! Content warnings include death, violence, sexual content, fire injury, drug abuse, child abuse, suicide, alcoholism, body horror, bullying, mental illness, mental institution, toxic relationships and confinement.
� Notes �
This book is FREE if you are on the Amazon’s Kindle Unlimited subscription! I received this book on KU and paid for the audiobook on Audible.
� Quick Review �
╰┈� Dark Romance
╰┈� UnhingedAF
╰┈� Manipulation & Control
╰┈� Multiple POV’s
╰┈� Chilling, Dark Atmosphere
╰┈� 1st Book in the Series
╰┈� Good VS Evil
╰┈� Has the movie “Girl, Interrupted� vibes
�* � � ˚ ˚ ˛ * 。� � � ˚�
� ୨⎯ Connie ⎯୧ �
ツ౨�
This dark romance novel is UnhingedAF! It had a strong start and left me with a cliffhanger so big that I had to read the next book in the series right after! While this is not the most unhinged book that I’ve read, it did live up to its name. The premise of this book is what initially hooked me.
I read the digital copy of this book on my kindle, while listening to it as an audiobook. The narrators did a great job and I definitely recommend listening to this book! This is a fast paced read that contains a morally grey male main character and a traumatic female main character. It is written in multiple points of views, with the 2 main characters being most of the POV’s. The atmosphere in this book is chilling, dark and chaotic. The FMC Avery seems to be like a puzzle that I am trying to figure out in the book. As the story progresses, we learn more about the characters themselves, the institution they are in and the people running the institution is like! Overall, I give this book a 4 out of 5 stars!
� Themes in this book �
The themes explored in this book are manipulation and control, trauma and healing, finding self worth, trauma and healing, and the nature of good versus evil.
� Synopsis �
“Unhinged� follows a group of young adults in a facility. It centers around a girl named Avery. While this is facility is for the unhinged, what happens in this facility is unhinged as well. A lot of wild things happening in there and you are at the edge of your seat wanting to know what happens next!
� Who I think would enjoy this book & Content Warnings �
I think if you’re a fan of the movie “Girl, Interrupted� you would enjoy reading this! Content warnings include death, violence, sexual content, fire injury, drug abuse, child abuse, suicide, alcoholism, body horror, bullying, mental illness, mental institution, toxic relationships and confinement.
� Notes �
This book is FREE if you are on the Amazon’s Kindle Unlimited subscription! I received this book on KU and paid for the audiobook on Audible.
� Quick Review �
╰┈� Dark Romance
╰┈� UnhingedAF
╰┈� Manipulation & Control
╰┈� Multiple POV’s
╰┈� Chilling, Dark Atmosphere
╰┈� 1st Book in the Series
╰┈� Good VS Evil
╰┈� Has the movie “Girl, Interrupted� vibes
�* � � ˚ ˚ ˛ * 。� � � ˚�
� ୨⎯ Connie ⎯୧ �
ツ౨�
February 21, 2025
WOW....😲 😲 😲 UPDATE: I just finished book 3 and can confirm this is a MUST READ. There are some important triggers below. I also can't really write a decent recap because it will ruin the entire book, but I'll try.
Avery White (20) was convicted of murder, but instead of prison, her attorney was able to get her admitted to the Lilydale Foundation Center. It's supposed to be a rehabilitation center for individuals who have a chance of turning their lives around. Avery quickly learns it's more of a prison, and rehabilitation is the last thing they have in mind. She has trouble adjusting to this new life, partially because of the past traumas she's experienced, and she's desperate to find someone she can trust. She spends most of her time interacting with Theo Ashwood and Grey Hawthorne. She's also unwillingly thrust into interactions with Grey's BFF, Damon. There's a lot of drama, secrets, unhinged-ness, and societies within societies. This ends on a big cliffy and I'm GASPING for the next book.
SEX: This is a Reverse Harem book - which means the FMC will have sex with more than one MMC. Make sure you're ok with that!!! That's all I'm going to say about that. The first sexual encounter is at 53% and it's hot. First time going all in is at 80% and it's even hotter.
AVERY: Can't say I'm a super-fan of hers, yet, but I don't want to murder her.
MMCs: I'm pretty sure this is the first time where Ms. Dess and I don't agree on the best MMC. I love Theo and she loves Grey. This is very interesting!! LOL
TRIGGERS: references to rape, references to suicide, physical violence, mutilation (sort of), murder, and possibly some more I'm missing.
OTHER CHARACTERS: I like to keep track of other characters because I tend to forget names. I also just like having a character map for trilogies, etc. Plus, characters are referred to by their first names sometimes, and their last names at other times. FYI.
Lily Emerson-Dale: Foundation created by her family after she killed herself due to mental illness.
Dr. Christopher Smith: Psychiatrist.
Arthur Whittingham: Foundation's supervisor(?).
Dr. Markel: Medical doc on staff.
Charmaine: Teacher. Seems like she's the only teacher.
Other Students
Byrone
Sam Hallman
Vivian Capello
Siobhan
Jillian (hacker)
Leighton
Again - I really do like this book.
Sometimes you need to cut ties with people� And sometimes those ties are arteries.
Avery White (20) was convicted of murder, but instead of prison, her attorney was able to get her admitted to the Lilydale Foundation Center. It's supposed to be a rehabilitation center for individuals who have a chance of turning their lives around. Avery quickly learns it's more of a prison, and rehabilitation is the last thing they have in mind. She has trouble adjusting to this new life, partially because of the past traumas she's experienced, and she's desperate to find someone she can trust. She spends most of her time interacting with Theo Ashwood and Grey Hawthorne. She's also unwillingly thrust into interactions with Grey's BFF, Damon. There's a lot of drama, secrets, unhinged-ness, and societies within societies. This ends on a big cliffy and I'm GASPING for the next book.
SEX: This is a Reverse Harem book - which means the FMC will have sex with more than one MMC. Make sure you're ok with that!!! That's all I'm going to say about that. The first sexual encounter is at 53% and it's hot. First time going all in is at 80% and it's even hotter.
AVERY: Can't say I'm a super-fan of hers, yet, but I don't want to murder her.
MMCs: I'm pretty sure this is the first time where Ms. Dess and I don't agree on the best MMC. I love Theo and she loves Grey. This is very interesting!! LOL
TRIGGERS: references to rape, references to suicide, physical violence, mutilation (sort of), murder, and possibly some more I'm missing.
OTHER CHARACTERS: I like to keep track of other characters because I tend to forget names. I also just like having a character map for trilogies, etc. Plus, characters are referred to by their first names sometimes, and their last names at other times. FYI.
Lily Emerson-Dale: Foundation created by her family after she killed herself due to mental illness.
Dr. Christopher Smith: Psychiatrist.
Arthur Whittingham: Foundation's supervisor(?).
Dr. Markel: Medical doc on staff.
Charmaine: Teacher. Seems like she's the only teacher.
Other Students
Byrone
Sam Hallman
Vivian Capello
Siobhan
Jillian (hacker)
Leighton
Again - I really do like this book.
May 12, 2024
The ending ruined it for me. I was eating this up until the last 80%. This said it was supposed to be a reverse harem, but instead, this was basically cheating. The ending pissed me off so much that I ain't doing a full review😭🤚.
Triggers and Warnings
� Mental illness (including PTSD, PTSD, BPD, schizophrenia, anger management, OCD, depression, anxiety, suicidal tendencies, bipolar disorder)
� Murder
� Suicide
� Death of a parent
� Death of a friend
� Drug addiction
� Violence
� Sexual assault
� Removal of limbs
� Needles
� Blood
� Penetration with objects
� Morgues/mortuary cabinets
� Unethical abuse by professionals
� Infertility issues
� Abuse and neglect
Triggers and Warnings
� Mental illness (including PTSD, PTSD, BPD, schizophrenia, anger management, OCD, depression, anxiety, suicidal tendencies, bipolar disorder)
� Murder
� Suicide
� Death of a parent
� Death of a friend
� Drug addiction
� Violence
� Sexual assault
� Removal of limbs
� Needles
� Blood
� Penetration with objects
� Morgues/mortuary cabinets
� Unethical abuse by professionals
� Infertility issues
� Abuse and neglect
June 1, 2025
I'm glad I was listening to the audio while reading because I'm afraid the narrators carried this read for me. They were top-tier ⭐️
However, I found the story itself to be kind of boring. I still don't know much about the characters or where the story is really going.
I will be reading the second book to see if I can connect with the characters more.
However, I found the story itself to be kind of boring. I still don't know much about the characters or where the story is really going.
I will be reading the second book to see if I can connect with the characters more.
May 21, 2025
So I had the pleasure of listening to the audiobook for this book and wow, just wow. It was truly amazing with the best narrators who did a brilliant job. The way Grey said Baby girl 🫠🫠 I was finished. It was a sick read with a good storyline and some great tension but it did break my heart because wdym with those last few chapters 😭😭
September 19, 2024
“You taste sweet like trouble and danger.�
This follows Avery 20, thrown into Lilydale Foundation Centre a glorified asylum that is known as an Academic Rehabilitation Centre for the troubled. Not everything is as it seems and she has become a target inside. She has never been cared for and has a very graphic past. That's until she catches the eyes of a few morally grey men that tear her walls down� what could go wrong?
This was so mysterious, had a gripping storyline and loved the morally grey men. This is a new why choose series and I can’t wait for the next book. Avery comes from a past of neglect and trauma with scars. This book deals with a lot of mental health and unhinged moments. I love how Avery had a backbone and stood up for herself when she could. What she experienced growing up to how she got in this facility makes me feel for her. My heart hurts for Grey. His character was flirty and unhinged with a dark side. Theo melted my heart for what he did for Avery even though he was a blunt grumpy character. Damon I’m still trying to work out and excited to read more of his character in the next. I feel as though the why choose element will be explored in the coming books and the slow burn element is not bad as it’s a shorter book. I classify anything past 50% as a slow burn. We get a little play before the 50% but the magic happens after the halfway mark. Also, I will say I’m so intrigued by the secret society, how it’s being controlled and what’s to come in the following books!
If you love:
🔹Dark Romance
🔹Glorified Asylum
🔹Slow Burn
🔹Secret Society
🔹Morally Grey Men
🔹Delicious Spice
Genre/Type: Adult Dark Romance 18+
APK: Physical
Pages: 267
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟.5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️.5
Series or Stand Alone: First Book In The Dance With My Demons
Tropes or Themes: Why Choose, Forced Proximity, Secret Society, Slowburn, Glorified Asylum, Morally Grey Men, Physiatrist Evaluation, Protective MMC, Mine, Intimate Tattoo, Mental Health, PTSD, BPD, Scars, Burns, Cursing, Sexual Content, Praise, Dirty Talk, Alternative Toy, Library Scene, Morgue Scene and Cliffhanger
Mentions: Suicide, Abuse, Neglect, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, Rape, Fire, Assault, Drug Addiction, Death and Murder
Check Triggers ⚠️ 💫
All Round Romance Reader
Sienasummerrreads💕📚
TikTok | Instagram | ŷ | StoryGraph | Everand | Amazon | Audible Reviews💫
This follows Avery 20, thrown into Lilydale Foundation Centre a glorified asylum that is known as an Academic Rehabilitation Centre for the troubled. Not everything is as it seems and she has become a target inside. She has never been cared for and has a very graphic past. That's until she catches the eyes of a few morally grey men that tear her walls down� what could go wrong?
This was so mysterious, had a gripping storyline and loved the morally grey men. This is a new why choose series and I can’t wait for the next book. Avery comes from a past of neglect and trauma with scars. This book deals with a lot of mental health and unhinged moments. I love how Avery had a backbone and stood up for herself when she could. What she experienced growing up to how she got in this facility makes me feel for her. My heart hurts for Grey. His character was flirty and unhinged with a dark side. Theo melted my heart for what he did for Avery even though he was a blunt grumpy character. Damon I’m still trying to work out and excited to read more of his character in the next. I feel as though the why choose element will be explored in the coming books and the slow burn element is not bad as it’s a shorter book. I classify anything past 50% as a slow burn. We get a little play before the 50% but the magic happens after the halfway mark. Also, I will say I’m so intrigued by the secret society, how it’s being controlled and what’s to come in the following books!
If you love:
🔹Dark Romance
🔹Glorified Asylum
🔹Slow Burn
🔹Secret Society
🔹Morally Grey Men
🔹Delicious Spice
Genre/Type: Adult Dark Romance 18+
APK: Physical
Pages: 267
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟.5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️.5
Series or Stand Alone: First Book In The Dance With My Demons
Tropes or Themes: Why Choose, Forced Proximity, Secret Society, Slowburn, Glorified Asylum, Morally Grey Men, Physiatrist Evaluation, Protective MMC, Mine, Intimate Tattoo, Mental Health, PTSD, BPD, Scars, Burns, Cursing, Sexual Content, Praise, Dirty Talk, Alternative Toy, Library Scene, Morgue Scene and Cliffhanger
Mentions: Suicide, Abuse, Neglect, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, Rape, Fire, Assault, Drug Addiction, Death and Murder
Check Triggers ⚠️ 💫
All Round Romance Reader
Sienasummerrreads💕📚
TikTok | Instagram | ŷ | StoryGraph | Everand | Amazon | Audible Reviews💫
May 31, 2025
Somebody pass me a priest!
HA!! The heck was that?
I had a credit spare so listened to the audiobook� Complete religious experience it was, too!
Corvin King as Grey� biblical!
Yeah, I said what I said!
BIBLICAL!!!
HA!! The heck was that?
I had a credit spare so listened to the audiobook� Complete religious experience it was, too!
Corvin King as Grey� biblical!
Yeah, I said what I said!
BIBLICAL!!!
April 9, 2024
Reading this book, I have now completed my harem of boyfriends lol BECAUSE Grey and Theo are in my top 4 of book boyfriends now.. THAT being said, this book is amazing. I devoured this book in a couple hours and it did not disappoint. STEPH!! you never let me down with your books!!
May 27, 2025
As always with each book make sure to
C/W before reading.
5⭐️ Read/Listen!
Unhinged is the first book in the series and let me just say it’s an amazing book to start with. When I say things move quickly it seriously does. I finished it in one day! I might say that with a lot of stuff I read but I’m a reader who knows what I’ll like so I jump into it right away No questions asked lol.
I love the fact that it’s multiple POVs you get a little bit of everything from all sides with each pov which is amazing. I’m definitely intrigued by the story I can’t wait to see how the rest of it unfolds within the series.
It’s dark with a sense of curiosity and pulls you in wanting to know more about the story and the characters. I was intrigued by this from so many different angles from the description, the cover, the sound clip, and the characters every which way you can think of I couldn’t wait to read/listen to this
To me, it felt like you get to experience this story from different POVs you have the mean female Avery. Then you get the guys Damon, grey, and Theo. Each character only made the storyline better and better! I can’t wait to read/listen to the rest of the series
The narration is phenomenal. The cast was picked out perfectly for each character It felt like I was listening to a movie the whole time the narrators are definitely top-tier and brought this to life on so many levels. The dedication that they put in this narration for the little details is fantastic I appreciate all the hard work that each, and every narrator did for this! It’s mind-blowing
Give this a listen you won’t be disappointed!
I would definitely recommend this to anyone who reads dark romance.
Thank you to Blue Nose Audio and the author Steph Macca for getting to experience this ALC it’s definitely part of my top audiobooks of the year 🩵
C/W before reading.
5⭐️ Read/Listen!
Unhinged is the first book in the series and let me just say it’s an amazing book to start with. When I say things move quickly it seriously does. I finished it in one day! I might say that with a lot of stuff I read but I’m a reader who knows what I’ll like so I jump into it right away No questions asked lol.
I love the fact that it’s multiple POVs you get a little bit of everything from all sides with each pov which is amazing. I’m definitely intrigued by the story I can’t wait to see how the rest of it unfolds within the series.
It’s dark with a sense of curiosity and pulls you in wanting to know more about the story and the characters. I was intrigued by this from so many different angles from the description, the cover, the sound clip, and the characters every which way you can think of I couldn’t wait to read/listen to this
To me, it felt like you get to experience this story from different POVs you have the mean female Avery. Then you get the guys Damon, grey, and Theo. Each character only made the storyline better and better! I can’t wait to read/listen to the rest of the series
The narration is phenomenal. The cast was picked out perfectly for each character It felt like I was listening to a movie the whole time the narrators are definitely top-tier and brought this to life on so many levels. The dedication that they put in this narration for the little details is fantastic I appreciate all the hard work that each, and every narrator did for this! It’s mind-blowing
Give this a listen you won’t be disappointed!
I would definitely recommend this to anyone who reads dark romance.
Thank you to Blue Nose Audio and the author Steph Macca for getting to experience this ALC it’s definitely part of my top audiobooks of the year 🩵
June 6, 2025
There isn’t a single thing I don’t like about this book. I am so here for the Unhinged. I loved the characters, Theo being my favorite. There’s just something about that quiet crazy. Interesting and addictive plot. Well written. Can’t wait to read book 2 after that cliffy!!
The audiobook is amazingly performed in multicast duet by Marie Hawkins, Corvin King, Joe Arden and Anthony Palmini. This book could not have been cast better. The acting superb. Bravo.
The audiobook is amazingly performed in multicast duet by Marie Hawkins, Corvin King, Joe Arden and Anthony Palmini. This book could not have been cast better. The acting superb. Bravo.
May 31, 2025
This book was a do not put down book. I loved it so much. Thrilling and Caden romance to the max. The ending makes me want the second book so bad!
5/30/25 did a reread via audio and I absolutely LOVED it more. The tension, the spice, how unhinged it was, the plot twist, dang it I loved it and had fun rereading it. Totally worth it and I can’t wait for Echoes.
5/30/25 did a reread via audio and I absolutely LOVED it more. The tension, the spice, how unhinged it was, the plot twist, dang it I loved it and had fun rereading it. Totally worth it and I can’t wait for Echoes.
June 4, 2025
4.5/5⭐️
August 18, 2024
For the people that said this book was so good, let me pay for your glasses because you clearly are reading something else.
The only unhinged thing, is my lack of brain cells after reading this.
The only unhinged thing, is my lack of brain cells after reading this.
February 11, 2025
Lowkey it was boring
May 26, 2025
Unhinged by Steph Macca
Format: Audiobook
Narrator(s): Marie Hawkins, Anthony Palmini, Corvin King and Joe Arden
Genre: Dark Why Choose
📖- 5 ⭐️
🎙�- 5 ⭐️
🌶�- 2.5
🖤 Why Choose
🖤 Dark Romance
🖤 Mental Health Rep
🖤 Asylum
CHECK THE TRIGGER WARNINGS‼️
Unhinged is book one in the Dance with my Demons series and lives up to its name. It’s dark and very unhinged. The chokehold this audiobook had on me was insane (pun intended) The all-star full cast of voice actors pushed this book to the next level. Marie Hawkins, Anthony Palmini, Corvin King and Joe Arden. You asked for it so Steph Macca and these narrators delivered.
Avery was sentenced to Lilydale instead of a traditional prison due to a mental disorder diagnosis. She soon realizes things are not quite as they seem. Never having a loving family or anyone to trust, she tends keep to herself with her head down. But trouble finds her any way. We are introduced to Grey, Damon and Theo. There are several layers to this story and Unhinged seems to barely scratch the surface. Body parts are being cut off, students are becoming unalived, a secret society seems to pull the strings and so much more.
The character growth of Avery is such an important part of what we see. Throughout the entire book, I felt like she was a push over and weak. But by the end, I knew that wasn’t the case at all. Secrets begin to come out and that cliffhanger was brutal. I cannot wait to get book two in my earbuds.
Do I recommend? A million times, YES!
Format: Audiobook
Narrator(s): Marie Hawkins, Anthony Palmini, Corvin King and Joe Arden
Genre: Dark Why Choose
📖- 5 ⭐️
🎙�- 5 ⭐️
🌶�- 2.5
🖤 Why Choose
🖤 Dark Romance
🖤 Mental Health Rep
🖤 Asylum
CHECK THE TRIGGER WARNINGS‼️
Unhinged is book one in the Dance with my Demons series and lives up to its name. It’s dark and very unhinged. The chokehold this audiobook had on me was insane (pun intended) The all-star full cast of voice actors pushed this book to the next level. Marie Hawkins, Anthony Palmini, Corvin King and Joe Arden. You asked for it so Steph Macca and these narrators delivered.
Avery was sentenced to Lilydale instead of a traditional prison due to a mental disorder diagnosis. She soon realizes things are not quite as they seem. Never having a loving family or anyone to trust, she tends keep to herself with her head down. But trouble finds her any way. We are introduced to Grey, Damon and Theo. There are several layers to this story and Unhinged seems to barely scratch the surface. Body parts are being cut off, students are becoming unalived, a secret society seems to pull the strings and so much more.
The character growth of Avery is such an important part of what we see. Throughout the entire book, I felt like she was a push over and weak. But by the end, I knew that wasn’t the case at all. Secrets begin to come out and that cliffhanger was brutal. I cannot wait to get book two in my earbuds.
Do I recommend? A million times, YES!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 9, 2025
3.25⭐️
This book is aptly named, though maybe not in the way it wants to be. Unhinged flirts with chaos, teases depravity, and then sprints away before the fun really starts. It’s the literary equivalent of someone whispering, “I’m crazy,� and then refusing to elaborate.
Let’s talk pacing. Blink and you’ve missed a trauma, a betrayal, a sex scene, and a flashback. It’s not a rollercoaster � it's a broken elevator dropping floors without warning. The short length absolutely guts any sense of narrative momentum. There are secrets, sure, and they’re clearly being saved for a slow reveal, but right now, we’re left clutching at vibes. You can feel the tension trying to build, but with no real core plot to anchor it, things slip through your fingers.
Character-wise? It’s giving vague shapes in a fog. I wanted to care. I tried. But Damon? Emotionally unavailable in an odd way. Theo? Hot potential, barely tapped. Grey? Maybe lovable, if he’d stop spiralling into melodrama. The last plot twist drama was� a lot. I needed buildup, not just impact.
The problem is structural: this feels like one big story chopped into parts and fed to us like rations in the apocalypse. You can survive on it, but you’re gonna be cranky. And while I'm definitely intrigued enough to pick up book two (because apparently I enjoy being emotionally breadcrumbed), I’m not exactly frothing at the mouth either.
Corvin, though? Corvin King had bite. Corvin King added flavour. If I stay in this series, it's for him and whatever unholy mess he brings with him when he narrates!
Final verdict: promising but scattered. Like reading a kink-forward fever dream through a cracked mirror. I’m watching. I’m interested. But SM, dear... tighten the leash and give us meat.
This book is aptly named, though maybe not in the way it wants to be. Unhinged flirts with chaos, teases depravity, and then sprints away before the fun really starts. It’s the literary equivalent of someone whispering, “I’m crazy,� and then refusing to elaborate.
Let’s talk pacing. Blink and you’ve missed a trauma, a betrayal, a sex scene, and a flashback. It’s not a rollercoaster � it's a broken elevator dropping floors without warning. The short length absolutely guts any sense of narrative momentum. There are secrets, sure, and they’re clearly being saved for a slow reveal, but right now, we’re left clutching at vibes. You can feel the tension trying to build, but with no real core plot to anchor it, things slip through your fingers.
Character-wise? It’s giving vague shapes in a fog. I wanted to care. I tried. But Damon? Emotionally unavailable in an odd way. Theo? Hot potential, barely tapped. Grey? Maybe lovable, if he’d stop spiralling into melodrama. The last plot twist drama was� a lot. I needed buildup, not just impact.
The problem is structural: this feels like one big story chopped into parts and fed to us like rations in the apocalypse. You can survive on it, but you’re gonna be cranky. And while I'm definitely intrigued enough to pick up book two (because apparently I enjoy being emotionally breadcrumbed), I’m not exactly frothing at the mouth either.
Corvin, though? Corvin King had bite. Corvin King added flavour. If I stay in this series, it's for him and whatever unholy mess he brings with him when he narrates!
Final verdict: promising but scattered. Like reading a kink-forward fever dream through a cracked mirror. I’m watching. I’m interested. But SM, dear... tighten the leash and give us meat.
April 15, 2024
4.5 🌟 / 🌶️🌶️🌶�
This book was great and the cliffhanger has me thirsty for the next book already. March 19th 2025 is going to be a long, long, long wait.
I love Theo, but I love Grey a LOT more and I truly hope he and Avery find their way back to each other again. The author dished out BPD in a way that’s very accurate (I am diagnosed) and with her activities between Theo & Grey, you can spot the unstable relationships which most BPD people irl do suffer from.
This is my first “why-choose� book and I very much enjoyed it! Avery never got to do what she wanted and I’m glad she had some of that opportunity.
What dragged me to this book was everybody talking about the morgue scene and if I’m honest, it wasn’t much to read. It was a bit too vanilla for me but I get that it was heat of the moment. I suppose that’s why I like Grey more too because the SHIV? Goddamn.
I’m very excited for the second book!
This book was great and the cliffhanger has me thirsty for the next book already. March 19th 2025 is going to be a long, long, long wait.
I love Theo, but I love Grey a LOT more and I truly hope he and Avery find their way back to each other again. The author dished out BPD in a way that’s very accurate (I am diagnosed) and with her activities between Theo & Grey, you can spot the unstable relationships which most BPD people irl do suffer from.
This is my first “why-choose� book and I very much enjoyed it! Avery never got to do what she wanted and I’m glad she had some of that opportunity.
What dragged me to this book was everybody talking about the morgue scene and if I’m honest, it wasn’t much to read. It was a bit too vanilla for me but I get that it was heat of the moment. I suppose that’s why I like Grey more too because the SHIV? Goddamn.
I’m very excited for the second book!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 30, 2025
5⭐️/4🔥
What the what?!
I went in blind and came out gasping! WTF?! How in the hell are you going to do me like that?!
This is a good book with solid plot and some spice sprinkled throughout. I listened to this via Audiobook and YAASSSS WITH THOSE MALE NARRATORS!! Avery is a consistent FMC and I'm torn between liking her for Grey or Theo. She has to take some credibility for her actions, but DAMN, someone did her real dirty! I'm gonna need to dive into book #2, stat!
What the what?!
I went in blind and came out gasping! WTF?! How in the hell are you going to do me like that?!
This is a good book with solid plot and some spice sprinkled throughout. I listened to this via Audiobook and YAASSSS WITH THOSE MALE NARRATORS!! Avery is a consistent FMC and I'm torn between liking her for Grey or Theo. She has to take some credibility for her actions, but DAMN, someone did her real dirty! I'm gonna need to dive into book #2, stat!
June 2, 2025
The way i needed to read this book sooner the cliffhanger is killing me i need to start the next boor asap
June 5, 2025
3.5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Give me alllll the crazy men, please 😂 getting it on in a morgue, tattooing each other, going against the hierarchy in an asylum…unhinged is right lmao. I couldn’t say no to this read when the audiobook featured Corvin King, Joe Arden, AND Anthony Palmini 🫠
"I'm your God now, little killer. And I'm your fucking Devil too." 🔥
“But I want to fall, I want to drown in everything about her. I don't care if it kills me. It would be the ending of all endings—a fitting demise for somebody like me.� 😮�
Give me alllll the crazy men, please 😂 getting it on in a morgue, tattooing each other, going against the hierarchy in an asylum…unhinged is right lmao. I couldn’t say no to this read when the audiobook featured Corvin King, Joe Arden, AND Anthony Palmini 🫠
"I'm your God now, little killer. And I'm your fucking Devil too." 🔥
“But I want to fall, I want to drown in everything about her. I don't care if it kills me. It would be the ending of all endings—a fitting demise for somebody like me.� 😮�
May 6, 2025
This book is pure chaos wrapped in a serotonin-laced fever dream and I devoured it like a gremlin on Red Bull. It grabbed me by the throat on page one and didn’t let go until I was screaming into the void at 2AM wondering how I got so emotionally invested in absolute insanity.
Reading this felt like being slapped in the face with glitter and trauma, and I thank it. The characters are hot messes with the emotional stability of a wet paper bag and yet, somehow, I would die for them. I would sell my house, fake my own death, and move to a remote island just to experience this book again for the first time.
Read this book. Cancel your plans. Abandon your responsibilities. Let it consume you. I’m unwell.
10/10 would spiral again.
Reading this felt like being slapped in the face with glitter and trauma, and I thank it. The characters are hot messes with the emotional stability of a wet paper bag and yet, somehow, I would die for them. I would sell my house, fake my own death, and move to a remote island just to experience this book again for the first time.
Read this book. Cancel your plans. Abandon your responsibilities. Let it consume you. I’m unwell.
10/10 would spiral again.
January 12, 2025
1.5🌶
3.5⭐️
This started so slow. It took till about 60% to actually start getting somewhere. I'm going on to book 2 so hopefully it's good lol
3.5⭐️
This started so slow. It took till about 60% to actually start getting somewhere. I'm going on to book 2 so hopefully it's good lol
May 28, 2025
I'm writing this, reeling from the ending of this book. How dare Steph Macca end this book like that 😱 Hooked from the beginning and gut punched at the end!
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The narrators have done an outstanding job portraying each character.
The full cast narration of this book was perfectly selected. I can't fault a single one.
Avery voiced by Marie Hawkins gave a strong, determined FMC a worthy voice.
Grey voiced by Corvin King, umm excuse me 🤭 first time hearing this narrator and I will be on the lookout for more of his work because, wow that voice, the way he portrayed Grey and his witty banter, well, I don't think I need to say more 🫠
Anthony Palmini delivers the perfect grumpy loner, who is Theo, again new to this narrator, but consider me a huge fan!
Mr Arden, as always beings that brooding, strong performance and was the perfect choice for Damon.
The plot is solid and definately will have you craving more, especially with that ending - what was that?!
Unhinged to me is a solid start to what I think is going to be a great series. We have a lot of character introduction and a heck load of suspense, leaving us craving to know more about each of them.
It's definately plot over spice, but it is quality over quantity, and I can't fault that. I wouldn't describe this specific book to be why choose BUT, it is book 1 of a series do who knows what will come - guess I'll find out soon enough .. do I have the restraint to wait for book 2 in audio? or am I diving into the ebook? 🤔
This book covers sensitive topics, as always I recommend you to check your content warnings.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The narrators have done an outstanding job portraying each character.
The full cast narration of this book was perfectly selected. I can't fault a single one.
Avery voiced by Marie Hawkins gave a strong, determined FMC a worthy voice.
Grey voiced by Corvin King, umm excuse me 🤭 first time hearing this narrator and I will be on the lookout for more of his work because, wow that voice, the way he portrayed Grey and his witty banter, well, I don't think I need to say more 🫠
Anthony Palmini delivers the perfect grumpy loner, who is Theo, again new to this narrator, but consider me a huge fan!
Mr Arden, as always beings that brooding, strong performance and was the perfect choice for Damon.
The plot is solid and definately will have you craving more, especially with that ending - what was that?!
Unhinged to me is a solid start to what I think is going to be a great series. We have a lot of character introduction and a heck load of suspense, leaving us craving to know more about each of them.
It's definately plot over spice, but it is quality over quantity, and I can't fault that. I wouldn't describe this specific book to be why choose BUT, it is book 1 of a series do who knows what will come - guess I'll find out soon enough .. do I have the restraint to wait for book 2 in audio? or am I diving into the ebook? 🤔
This book covers sensitive topics, as always I recommend you to check your content warnings.
June 7, 2025
How is this book so short and so long at the same time? Man it was so awful hahaha this was supposed to be a prison but looked more like a summer camp. I mean if you’re going to call a book Unhinged, you should go all the way! This characters were so bland, they tried but it wasn’t enough. Also, she’s a fucking cheater so� bitch I’m going to hate you until I forget about you. Maybe later in the series the love triangle rearrange itself but right now she’s cheating and gaslighting her partners. This series is not for me, obviously not going to continue. The cliffhanger at the end was good though, I’ll give it that!
The audiobook was absolute perfection, honestly what a waste of good voices. Because of them I could finish it.
The audiobook was absolute perfection, honestly what a waste of good voices. Because of them I could finish it.
June 11, 2025
Absolutely loved this book and I cant wait to start Book 2. I was hooked from the beginning. I have always liked Asylum type stories and of course a trope with Why Choose type. This one is told through a few different POVs. The main FMC - Avery and then a few of the male characters- Grey, Damon and Theo. A lot goes on in this story. Of course everyone is in for something they did that was bad and instead of being sent to prison they are allowed to attend Lilydale Foundation Center to hopefully improved on themselves and be able to leave. Lots of drama happens, mystery and more.
Looking forward to the next book. Steph has me hooked.
Looking forward to the next book. Steph has me hooked.
May 30, 2025
Devoured this duet style audiobook that was chaotic and unpredictable. Though short it managed to express emotions and pull me into the world. Book 1 of 4... where oh where will this series go.
Favorite Quotes
☠️"She probably sucks like a dyson because everything about her is dusty as powder."
☠️"What is normal anyways, it’s just a setting on a washing machine."
Favorite Quotes
☠️"She probably sucks like a dyson because everything about her is dusty as powder."
☠️"What is normal anyways, it’s just a setting on a washing machine."
May 30, 2025
A must listen! Especially if you enjoy slightly deranged MMCs, and why chooses.
Chapters 1-22, I was obsessed with Grey and added probably close to 20 books to my TBR, all narrated by Corvin King.
Then, Theo happened. I probably stopped breathing for the entirety of chapter 23. Anthony Palmini took me out and reminded me that he has me in a chokehold.
AMAZING cast delivering an unhinged story!
Chapters 1-22, I was obsessed with Grey and added probably close to 20 books to my TBR, all narrated by Corvin King.
Then, Theo happened. I probably stopped breathing for the entirety of chapter 23. Anthony Palmini took me out and reminded me that he has me in a chokehold.
AMAZING cast delivering an unhinged story!
March 23, 2025
3,5⭐️
March 20, 2024
Another amazing book by Steph !!!!! And always with the killer cliffhangers 😭😭😭😭😭 can't wait for book two I hope it's not to long of a wait !
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