Cruel Orchid by Ryana Hunter

Val is a broken woman haunted by the evil of her past. She can't escape the ominous shadow that clings to her or the monsters, both paranormal and human, that threaten to consume her. Stuck between her loyalties to them and her own inner demons, Val must make choices that seem impossible. No longer just empty - Val is hollow, a shell of her former self. Ten years ago, she left Forest Haven and the love and acceptance she finally found there. Pain and memories are her only companions. Despite Madoc’s attempts to heal her wounded soul, he can’t reach her. Shattered by the loss of Val, he’s given up and given in to what he hates the most. Dev struggles to get from night to night. Now a full-time enforcer, he dreams of death. Val’s death and then his own. Bela and the twins haven't given up on finding their Sun. As their powers grow, they realize the only way to reach her is through Dev. They secretly ally themselves with him, biding their time until they can claim the freedom they left behind years ago. Can they reclaim what they have lost and still have a future?

Adult • Horror/Paranormal Creatures • Mystery, Thriller, and Suspense/Psychological Thrillers • Mystery, Thriller, and Suspense/Supernatural and Paranormal • Romance/Paranormal • Diversity Representation/Mental Health

Content Warning: Some Triggers in Cruel Orchid: death, suicidal ideations, childhood trauma/neglect/abuse, mental abuse, generalized dysphoria, gaslighting, psychosis, mention of sexual assault in past, mention of drug/alcohol abuse, mention of child loss in past, cannibalism, medical experimentation, mental health issues, torture, blood, graphic violence/ injuries and gore, self harm, bullying, toxic relationships, bullying from partner, grief, murder, mention of death of a parent(s), slavery, explicit sexual content, breath play, blood/knife play, sadomasochism and other possible triggers. Reader discretion is advised.