The writing was entertaining and engaging. Despite the dark side to these stories, they were delivered in an entertaining way and at times spoke directly to the reader. It felt well researched and made it clear that there were many different versions of what we were about to be told. I liked that other possible versions were also weaved in, allowing you to "choose the one you wanted".

The book was set out well with individual stories being grouped together. I liked the picture of the rose at the end of a few of the stories, the occasional cherub, as well as the coloured illustrations of some of the characters that we met. They added interest and brought the characters to life.

I liked that there were stories from all over the world as well as from different time periods. It gave a well rounded feel to the book.

Each story was short and to the point, giving the whole book a good pace. I completed it in two sittings, but if you are a fast reader then it could be done in one.

There were so many different characters from all walks of life as well as from different cultures. They were all interesting to read about.

Overall a well written book and one that I enjoyed reading.

This is a fun collection of the less sweet side of Valentine's Day, including such topics as murders, scams, and Victorian "vinegar valentines", which were sent to someone you hated. This might be a good gift for someone who has soured on the whole concept of Valentine's Day!

Beneath the red roses, heart-shaped chocolates, and declarations of love lies a shadowy history of Valentine's Day that few are brave enough to explore. In a journey that spans from ancient Roman festivals to medieval legends, this book uncovers the sinister roots of this holiday—from tales of forbidden love to spectral visitations and mysterious rituals.

If you ever wondered where Valentine's day came from, here is a good place to start. We have all the history here, from Lore, to true crime, to horror stories, as well as some historic fact.
Perfect for the history nerd, the romantic, and the anti- Valentine reader.
Lots of fun and information.
Recommended. Published 12/3/2024

Thanks to @Netgalley and Cider Mill Press for the opportunity to read this eArc in exchange for my honest and unbiased opinion.

I really enjoyed this one. It was hard to put down. It kept me wanting more. The characters are amazing! And I love the title and the story line. Such an amazing book!

the collection of stories about real events, legends, and traditions was


the imagery and pictures in this book were beautiful. even the cover is pretty.


quotes:
"All because a young man accidentally romanced his own mother."

"The hurt and pain of love are as as intense as the joy and bliss, and when the pain becomes too much it can push people over the edge..."
-this quote intrigued me. I felt the intensity of this passage because yes, love can indeed cause hurt and pain. it can even destroy you.

some areas in the book fell a little flat for me and felt like something needed to be added to them. overall, I really enjoyed this book

As a history geek, I just couldn't not love this collection of stories about real-life events, legends and traditions surrounding Valentine’s Day.

Thanks to Cider Mill Press and NetGalley, who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest opinion.

p.s.: the drawings are beautiful

A grisly and gruesome book filled with tales of love and loss, accompanied by macabre illustrations, that will haunt you well after reading.

There are a lot of scary stories included in this book. It's a perfect collaborative piece for those people that like lore and spooky tales. I enjoyed a good half of the stories. Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC.

For all those dark hearts out there, a Valentine's day book looking at the terrifying legends and stories surrounding romance. Oh this was such a fun read. It's a great book that has modern mysteries, legends, origins and so much more. It's morbid, its got a bit of horror, and its just such a fun read for anyone who loves a bit of a darker look into romance! Plus the book is filled with gorgeous art pieces!! Seriously snag this for any gothic heart out there!

Release Date: December 3,2024

Publication/Blog: Ash and Books (ash-and-books.tumblr.com)

*Thanks Netgalley and Cider Mill Press for sending me an arc in exchange for an honest review*

I loved every minute of this book. It was full of stories written in such an engaging way that I found myself reading more and more, unable to put it down.

Thank you for the opportunity to read!!

This is a quick read that covers the history of Valentine's Day lore from ancient Greece and Rome through early Europe, the urban legends of the 1950's and more. It's a mix of fact and fiction with some parts being more interesting than others. I appreciate that the author included lgbt representation and I really liked the illustration style.

I received this book for free from Netgalley in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.

This short book is super interesting. I knew a lot of the lore but I still found the book fun. I would buy it for my teenagers.