YA Horror is not my usual genre, but this book was awesome. It was a super fast and fun read. I absolutely loved how the author framed this story in the Foreward of the book. Vivienne is a complex FMC that is doing the best in her bad situation, and I fell in love with her!! I never saw the final twist or "cause" coming. A great story with a nice HEA! I'm glad I took a chance and went outside my usual genre!

Once again Kelly wrote a masterpiece of a book and I'm obsessed. I Am Made of Death had me completely captivated...and honestly a bit freaked out lol
But it was utterly fantastic in the same way all her books are and it's always a treat to read one of her books.

I've read all three novels written by Andrew now, and as it stands I think this might actually be the one I like the least, which is funny, because it seems to be the one that has the highest ratings so far. Now, I don't mean that it's bad, it's not bad, it's a very enjoyable book with a unique story fantastic horror elements, I just think it was missing something that the previous two books had, although I'm not entirely sure I can put my finger on what. I will say that the thing that stood out to me the most was that for me, the writing wasn't as lyrical. It was still very good, mind you, but her previous two novels seemed to have an almost poetic feel to them at some points, and I felt like that was missing here. I think my other issue was the romance felt slightly lacking as well. This is billed as a horrormance (a horror romance) but I'm not sure there was enough character development and interaction to justify the strong feelings that were being conveyed here. They knew each other for maybe 3 months total, and while I know they're teenagers and they're in some unique circumstances I still don't think it explains why our MMC was willing to die for our FMC considering they spent most of their time being mean to each other or not "speaking" at all. I did love seeing characters from the previous two novels pop up again, and Andrew really knows how to write a unique story. She is also great at disturbing imagery. While I didn't love this one as much as her other two I think it's a great entry point into her work for newcomers, and it seems others are already enjoying this one more, so hopefully her books will start to pick up popularity. I honestly think that Andrew should be more well known, and I can't wait to see what she comes up with next.

Unique and attention grabbing. I was hooked from the first chapter. The story is well paced and keeps you on the edge of your seat waiting to see what is next.

This is one of the best books I've ever read and I'm ki kicking myself for not reading Kelly Andrew sooner. It's atmospheric and the voice is ugh. I love it.

Kelly Andrew is an underrated horror genius. Not with just the physical but the terrifying reality of emotions as well. I Am Made of Death continues her track record of wonderfully written ,prose filled spooky good times.

No one does horror or devastating romances like Kelly Andrew. You'll probably spend a few days checking under your bed and avoiding mirrors once you finish I Am Made of Death but it's worth it.

My jaw is on the floor. Vivienne, the selectively-mute step-daughter to a wealthy lawyer, requires an interpreter/bodyguard, as her voice kills and she exclusively signs. Needing the money, Thomas applies, thought Vivienne’s step-father wants him to spy on her and Vivienne wants Thomas to quit. Something darker is going on, but Thomas doesn’t know what.
There are a lot of emotions in this book. So cute how Thomas became Tommy to Vivienne, especially when she needed him. Kinda confused about the extent of Vivienne’s powers, though. Excitement when I found out one of the side characters actually has a book of his own, The Whispering Dark. Overall, I really loved IAMOD, I’m just puzzled. It was so twisty. It was everything it promised, a dangerous girl, a sunshine boy, bubblegum horror, in signature Kelly Andrew style. A lot of reviews suggest reading The Whispering Dark before IAMOD but I somehow missed that memo so I will be reading The Whispering Dark now.
Thank you to NetGalley for this ARC. All opinions are my own.

Thank you to Scholastic and NetGalley for providing me with this ARC! All opinions below are my own.

I Am Made of Death is equal parts horror, romance, and high-stake adventure. The macabre secrets set up in the first few chapters are intriguing, the premise itself captivating, and the way each character builds off of one another works incredibly well. The end result between the two is every bit as sweet as I was hoping. The biggest takeaway, though, is that the romance doesn’t overpower the horror elements which make up a lot of the story. The human condition at its best- and worst- are explored fantastically.

My biggest complaint was the lack of explanation for aspects of Thomas’s life that are discussed in the later part of the book. It seems like something too major to gloss over after a confirmation that allusions throughout the book were in fact to this specific detail, but perhaps that’s simply me wanting more Thomas. In general, though, this was a phenomenal read. I’d sincerely recommend this if you like your gothic horror mixed with some romance and existential dread.

I was really looking forward to this book. I LOVED the description, and couldn't wait to dive in. But as has happened with other books by this author, I feel like it just doesn't quite get there for me. A girl who can't speak because she is possessed by something after a childhood event, a boy who knows sign because of his mother and is responsible for his family's finances, and societal pressures that will surely try to keep them apart. How awesome! Well, it started off that way. But, I feel like the story didn't deliver on its promise. There were great descriptions of things that I feel took up too much of the text and didn't leave room for actual plot explanations or character development. By the end, when I should've been dying to finish the book and find out what happens, I found myself reading lots of other things because I just didn't care. Didn't care about the characters, their relationship, or what happened to them. I think that's because there is very little build up to Thomas and Vivienne's relationship. I don't mind insta-love. When well done, it's believable. But they only watch TV together one night (or maybe a couple) and he takes her to a class, but suddenly they're in love. WHAT?! There is no build up. What does she like about him? I have no idea. What does he like about her? No idea either, especially because she's mean to him all the time.
Also, some plot points were very confusing, and I felt like I was missing things. It may be less like that if you read Whispering Dark, because it shares some characters, but I didn't finish that one, so I don't know.
It was interesting sometimes, and I didn't hate it, but I really wish it would've given more explanation of things--plot wise--and more showing versus telling for the characters.

3.5 stars

What I loved:
The horror elements in this story are excellent. The demonic thing that Vivienne is dealing with, that whole backstory and situation, was so well written. For me, it’s the most relatable part of this story. For each reader, it can represent something different - something that plagues us, weighs us down and haunts us.

The romance in this story was Kelly’s best yet. Thomas is hired by Vivienne’s father to be an interpreter, but he ends up being more like a bodyguard of sorts. The lines start getting blurred. There’s a lot of angsty enemies to lovers tension. There are scenes that feel a lot more intimate and emotional than Kelly’s previous books.

What I struggled with:
Vivienne is trapped and voiceless - both physically and metaphorically - she’s plagued with something demonic, weighed down by her trauma, and struggling with her self-worth. On paper, she’s a character I should have been drawn to and found relatable, but it was so difficult to feel for her. She came off as closed off, manipulative and self-centered. Vulnerable moments that should have shown her heart, left me unmoved. The narration didn’t fully convey her emotions, which made it hard to believe that anything was genuine, even her feelings for Thomas. It seemed to take her the entire book to consider that others had struggles too. These aspects made it difficult to root for her, even as I understood her pain.

The overall plot - something to do with an occult organization tied to the college - was just lost on me. The supporting characters and relationships were blurred into the background.

Overall:
If you read for atmosphere, angst, vibes and great quotes, this book will work for you.

Andrew Kelly’s writing is compelling and I’ll continue to read whatever she publishes.

Thank you to NetGalley and Scholastic Press for the opportunity to read and review this book in exchange for an honest review.

Prepare to be utterly captivated by this haunting and electrifying dark romance from Kelly Andrew, where love battles darkness, secrets claw their way to the surface, and the line between humanity and monstrosity blurs.

✨ The Premise:
Thomas Walsh is a young man carrying the weight of the world. Between caring for his sick mother and working tirelessly to make ends meet, he can’t afford to pass up a lucrative job as an interpreter for Vivienne Farrow, a mysterious and wealthy heiress who only signs.

Vivienne hasn’t spoken in years, not since a chilling childhood incident in Red Rock Canyon left her with a curse: anyone who hears her voice meets a gruesome fate. Controlled by her overbearing parents and desperate to escape the dark force within her, Vivienne is determined to reclaim her freedom—even if it means keeping Thomas at arm’s length.

But when their worlds collide, secrets unravel, and the darkness surrounding Vivienne threatens to consume them both, their growing connection could be their salvation… or their destruction.

🔥 Why You’ll Fall for This Book:
• Dark, Twisted Romance: The chemistry between Thomas and Vivienne is palpable, filled with tension, longing, and an undercurrent of danger.
• Unique Concept: A voice that kills? A surgical exorcism? This fresh twist on dark romance and paranormal elements will have you hooked.
• Atmospheric & Haunting: Kelly Andrew weaves a world that’s as beautiful as it is chilling, where every shadow feels alive.
• Complex Characters: Both Thomas and Vivienne are broken in their own ways, and their journeys of healing and self-discovery will tug at your heart.
• High Stakes: With Vivienne’s curse and a looming supernatural threat, the stakes are sky-high, keeping you on the edge of your seat.

🌌 Final Thoughts:
I Am Made of Death is an intoxicating mix of gothic vibes, heart-pounding romance, and spine-tingling suspense. This isn’t just a love story—it’s a battle for survival, a fight against fate, and a testament to the power of connection in the face of darkness.

📖 Perfect for fans of: The Dead Romantics, The Atlas Six, and lovers of dark, atmospheric romances with a paranormal twist.

💬 Tag your dark romance buddy! Have you read this yet? Let’s discuss!

📚 #IAmMadeOfDeath #KellyAndrew #DarkRomance #ParanormalRomance #GothicReads #Bookstagram #RomanticThriller #SpineTinglingReads #MustReadBooks #BookishVibes #TBRAlert 🖤🖋️

I Am Made of Death" by Kelly Andrew is a spellbinding blend of dark romance and supernatural horror that captivates from the first page. Andrew's prose is both lyrical and haunting, creating an atmosphere thick with suspense and emotion. The character development is particularly noteworthy; Vivienne's portrayal as a hyper-feminine yet terrifying figure is both relatable and inspiring, while Thomas's resourcefulness and steadfastness make him a compelling counterpart. The novel's exploration of themes such as autonomy, identity, and the lengths one will go for love adds depth to the narrative, elevating it beyond a typical supernatural tale.

An engaging thriller.

At first, you try to understand what the big secret is for Vivienne needing an ASL interpreter, since she is not deaf, but for some years now she has preferred to be selective-mute.

Thomas Walsh, a young man who has taken on the responsibility of taking care of his sick mother - who has an autoimmune disease - and his younger sister, does not think twice about accepting this job with a high salary.

However, something his employer said makes Thomas think that he was needed for more than just his ASL skills; something on his resume was extremely important to be Vivienne's companion, and also to spy on her.

As the secret is revealed, the suspense around how all this trouble can be eliminated grows, and we discover who the real tormentors are.

Incredible plot that deserves to be turned into a movie
5 stars

kelly andrew is a go-to author for me now when i want some spooks, horror, and immersive storytelling. she puts you right next to the characters as you read which makes the chilling aspects that much more frightening. i didn't realize i should have read 'the whispering dark' before this one but it didn't take away any enjoyment from the story. knowing the first novel would only enhance the story for readers. i'm looking forward to going back and getting some information about Colton and Lane!

highly recommend this author for atmospheric, gothic and paranormal fantasy!

So this is an interesting one to review. I was captivated by the first part of the book, bc it was macabre and I wanted to know more of what was happening. It had a bit of The Ninth House feel to it and I really liked the dynamic. I think the love story ruined it. Or at the very least it should've been built up more, because it didn't resonate the way it should've. There's also several lost threads that being answered would round the story out better..

I have mixed feelings on this one! Overall, I liked each of the characters as well as the plot. It had good bones and it did have me interested and hooked. However, I felt like things in the plot and romance didn’t build in a natural way. There wasn’t enough substance to the relationship before Thomas was willing to pit everything on the line for her. Sometimes I felt confused by the number of characters that were thrown in as well. I guess I feel like it wasn’t all fleshed out well. However it was definitely creepy at times and had plenty of horror elements to keep it interesting.

4.5 stars!

The moment I received an arc of this book, I almost immediately dove right in. I honestly thought I’d finish it by the end of 2024, but instead, I wrapped it up on the very first day of the new year. I couldn’t be happier that I Am Made of Death ended up being the first book I officially read this year because I absolutely loved it.

That said, the reason this didn’t quite make it to a full five stars for me (it’s just a half-star short) is because, after the 80% mark (which I thoroughly enjoyed every second of), there were too many unanswered questions lingering. But I suppose that was part of the charm of this book—keeping readers on their toes and always guessing. While a more detailed wrap-up with full explanations of the mysterious events would have been nice, that wasn’t the reason I gave it less than five stars.

I also noticed that this book was very loosely based on 'Rumplestiltskin' fairytale with its own paranormal and mysterious intrigues, twists and turns.

For anyone eagerly awaiting the release of this book, and trust me, you should be, get ready to add Thomas Walsh to your list of potential book boyfriends for 2025. He’s definitely one of the best!

I Am Made of Death, a modern retelling of ‘Beauty and the Beast’ grabs you from the very first page and refuses to let go. This book blends gothic horror, romance, and the Supernatural into an unforgettable story that’s as chilling as it is tender.

At the heart of the novel is Thomas Walsh, a hardworking, resilient man whose world is turned upside down when he becomes the interpreter for Vivienne Farrow, an enigmatic heiress shrouded in tragedy and danger. Thomas easy to root for—his devotion to his sister and ailing mother plus his quiet determination make him relatable. He will do whatever he can to keep the bills paid, even if that means staying in trouble and harboring secrets of his own. Meanwhile, Vivienne is a puzzle wrapped in haunting layers: her silence is choice as her voice is a weapon, and her struggle to reclaim her voice and identity is both heartbreaking and thrilling.

Andrew’s writing is stunning. She paints vivid, eerie landscapes that feel like characters themselves, with every shadow and whisper carrying a sense of foreboding. The relationship between Thomas and Vivienne is beautifully nuanced, moving from guarded suspicion to something deeply heartfelt. Their bond feels genuine and grows naturally, even as the dark forces surrounding Vivienne threaten to tear them apart.

What sets this book apart is its exploration of silence and voice—both literally and metaphorically. Vivienne’s curse is terrifying, but it also serves as a powerful metaphor for control, autonomy, and the longing to be heard on one’s own terms. Thomas’s role as an interpreter adds another layer of depth, highlighting the complexities of communication and trust.

The plot is expertly paced, with twists and revelations that kept me on edge. I was completely hooked, desperate to see how Thomas and Vivienne would navigate their shared dangers. My only gripe would be that what was happening was confusing. This book got four stars instead of five because I don't feel there was a true explanation for why Vivienne was the way she was and how some of the other characters are still around. I also don't feel we got much for why Thomas could do what he could. I don't want to spoil this, so give it a read for yourselves, maybe I missed something. But that ending? Hauntingly perfect. It’s a story of survival, love, and the power of reclaiming what’s been stolen. I highly recommend!

*Special thanks to NetGalley and the publisher, Scholastic Press, for providing this eARC with me in exchange for my honest opinion. Make sure to grab it on its release date March 4th!

4.25⭐️

Thank you so much to Scholastic Press for the eARC of I Am Made of Death by Kelly Andrew in exchange for an honest review. This book was my final of 2024, and it did not disappoint.

From the very beginning, I was enthralled, staying up way too late reading. Vivienne was fantastic - a ballerina possessed by an evil entity who can make people die just by speaking. So great. I felt her rage and terror through the pages. And Thomas! He really was her ride or die, and if I’m ever possessed, I’d want someone like him on my side.

Like I said, I was obsessed with this book for the most part. It gave me Ninth House meets Lady Macbeth meets The Metamorphosis in the best way. The one issue I had with the book is that I was confused about the societies and Thomas’s friends until I realized that all of Kelly’s books tie together. While you can definitely read I Am Made of Death as a standalone and enjoy it, the addition of new people and abilities may throw you a little. I’m going to do myself a favor and pick up her other books too.

All said, I Am Made of Death was a great way to round out the year—lyrical prose, rage, Eldritch terrors, possession, and bubblegum horror? So so good.

I Am Made of Death will be published March 4, 2024.


-Instagram review to come closer to pub date. Review will be updated when posted.