

Dinner from hell
Romance
Page 1
I stood in front of the mirror, carefully applying my lipstick, the song "Ex's and Oh's" by Elle King filled the room, setting the mood for the evening ahead.
Tonight was special.
After two long years studying overseas, I was finally back in Petoria, South Africa, and I couldn't wait to catch up with my friends.
The thought of seeing them again after so long abroad filled me with a sense of excitement. It had been far too long since we last gathered around a table, sharing laughter and stories late into the night. And tonight, as I carefully blended my eyeshadow, I was particularly looking forward to introducing them to my single status.
I glanced at the clock on my dresser, noting that it was almost time to head out. My heart raced with anticipation as I thought about the evening ahead. There would be good food, great company, and undoubtedly plenty of catching up to do. But what excited me most was the opportunity to see my friends' partners and share in their happiness.
I smiled to myself as I applied a final coat of lipstick, feeling a surge of gratitude for the friendships that had endured despite the distance. As I slipped into my favorite dress and grabbed my purse, I couldn't help but feel a sense of contentment wash over me. Tonight was going to be a night to remember, and I couldn't wait to make the most of every moment.
Enjoying this sample?
Continue reading this book and enjoy unlimited access to a diverse library of Pinsmack fiction ebooks, with new ones added every Friday. All included in your Pinsmack subscription plan.
You Might Also Like
Explore more of our collection of titles.
Contemporary Poetry
This collection of poems takes you on a journey through the twists and turns of politics, from the big picture challenges of democracy to the tricky ethics of technology in the political sphere. It explores the fights for human rights, privacy, and justice.
Kids
In a land of endless sunshine and shimmering waters, four siblings embark on a quest to construct the ultimate sandcastle. But when their castle comes crashing down, they discover the strength of teamwork.
Teen
An eighteen-year-old girl, grieving over the death of her mother, sets out on a secret mission to find out who her father might be encountering several potential candidates. Including a free-spirited hippie, a doctor, Mr. Peter Pan and a lifelong bachelor who never married. The question is, which one of them is Emily's father?
Crime
Detective Inspector Emily Thompson leads an inquiry into the death of a South African diplomat, unearthing corruption and fighting for justice.
Fantasy
In a world threatened by darkness, unlikely heroes Lori and Rhaegar fight for the fate of their homeland, Argylle, against ancient evils, forging a bond of courage and sacrifice.
Poetry
A collection of empowering words for young women that celebrate self-acceptance, diversity, growth, and authenticity. It provides solace and motivation.
Teen
Jack Miller is a 17-year-old who uses the pen name TinyJack. He is a teenager with a talent for organizing underground parties and avoiding the police. Until one of Jack's parties spirals out of control, leading to deadly consequences. Now, Jack must face the fallout from his actions.
Kids
At Bamboo Grove Elementary, lunchboxes are mysteriously disappearing, and it’s up to Alex, a curious panda in a wheelchair, and his friends Mei and Kumo to solve the mystery.
Fantasy
I'm a delivery driver with elvish magic trying to make a living in Cape Town. Yannick Huntsville, a famous high elf treasure hunter, ruins my life. Seeking revenge, I end up on a treasure hunt adventure and I'm determined to succeed.
Romance
Two newly divorced penniless men, who have an eye for turning wealthy women into their personal bankrollers to support their extravagant lifestyle, descend on a small town. They aim to win the heart of a 45-year-old widow, but the question is - who will win her heart? As they compete for her affection, they begin to realize that the widow may not be the woman they thought she seemed.
Sci-fi
When a child escapes the hospital and appears on a doctor's doorstep seeking help, the doctor vanishes after uncovering a shocking secret. The mysterious disappearance catches the attention of Jason and Huck, two investigative reporters unraveling a chilling pattern: citizens of Mars relocated to new homes are vanishing without a trace.
Kids
Join Smart, a curious little cat, on a delightful adventure to find their best friend, Ginger. As Smart searches, they encounter different groups of cats, each with a unique mood.
Crime
Chukwudi, a Nigerian immigrant in Johannesburg, excels academically, striving to be the model "good immigrant." But as he navigates a path toward corporate success, his rebellious brother Ifeanyi takes a darker route and their bond is tested.
Erotic Romance
In quiet of a living room, an undeniable attraction has ignited between two women, throwing their worlds into chaos. As one struggles to maintain her carefully balanced life, the simmering tension between them becomes impossible to ignore. How long can they resist before desire takes over?
Fantasy
Lunaire's werewolves navigate love, sacrifice, and cosmic threats. In a high-fantasy dance, they face ancient foes and forge ethereal alliances. Will their choices reshape destinies, or succumb to a cosmic adversary? Unveil the secrets in this enchanting tale of intertwined fates.
Thriller
A foreign national falls from a 26th-story building in Mumbai. The deceased is a convicted money launderer who is supposed to be serving a 15-year sentence at HM Prison Belmarsh in London, England. But the real question is: How did he manage to escape?
Romance
John's friends conspire to teach him a lesson in love, but unexpected feelings arise, leading them on a journey of self-discovery and forever.
Kids
Heath Grant is no ordinary troublemaker, he’s the ultimate prankster and a total mystery. He brags about his outrageous plans before pulling them off and somehow always gets away without a scratch. How? Nobody in Normstead has a clue.
Contemporary Poetry
An enlightening odyssey that celebrates the universal pursuit of meaning, offering a poignant reflection on the enduring importance of religion in our lives
Romance
Samantha returns to New York heartbroken, trying to bury herself in work to forget Marcus. Samantha's hopes to forget Marcus are short lived when she is fired from her job. Audrey offers Samantha to stay with her parents. To which Marcus initially says no, but after much persuasion, he reluctantly agrees. When Samantha moves in, Marcus pretends that Samantha doesn't exist, but how long will that last? As the desire & tension between them grows stronger.
Sci-fi
When a shuttle on its way to Pluto disappears in the midst of a deadly virus outbreak, Peace Corps officer Kiernan Nene embarks on a desperate mission to find his fiancée and stepson. As he uncovers chilling secrets about the virus, he discovers it’s not just biological, it’s intelligent. With the stakes rising, Kiernan must choose between saving his family or stopping a deadly force that threatens Earth.
Contemporary Poetry
In a bustling city, aspiring artist navigates life, chasing dreams and grappling with love, loss, and self-discovery.
Fantasy
The Spinder have protected humanity for centuries by living high above the dangerous surface world. They are on the brink of war against Aurora's Armada and their new secret weapon that can destroy entire Spires. Lord Barron dispatches Captain Grimm and his crew to the trading summit at Spire Olympia to secure alliances and bolster diplomatic agents.
Teen
Tyler Jenkins is a rebellious troublemaker who has been expelled from school for stealing a car. However, on his 16th birthday, he inherits a talent for magic and is forced to attend Darlington Academy. Tyler's sleep magic causes concern for his teachers and fellow students. Tyler must learn to master his magic quickly or risk becoming another missing person like his father.
Fantasy
The Kingdom of Boyard is on the verge of being wiped off the map, but Davina couldn't care less. She has one goal and one goal only: pulling off a daring heist that will erase the debt devastating her family. However this is easier said than done.
Crime
A young teacher’s dream job turns into a nightmare. In the glittering halls of New York’s elite school, she encounters its most powerful and dangerous man: a parent with a score to settle after she witnesses his crime. And she is his prey.
Romance
When Fiona and Simon lock eyes, it’s love at first sight. But as the spotlight on Simon’s powerful family grows brighter, Fiona finds herself facing impossible choices. With society closing in and expectations mounting, she must decide how far she’s willing to go to hold on to the man she loves—even if it means losing herself in the process.
Contemporary
Thandiwe Khumalo has the perfect life, a loving family and a successful career. On a regular morning after dropping her kids at school, her world is turned is turned upside down. Is Thandiwe really the luckiest woman alive, or is her luck about to run out?
Contemporary Poetry
From the canvas of subjectivity to the boundless realm of imagination, each page resonates with caution's gentle whisper. The poems, a poetic palette, explore the interplay of form and function, uncovering the hidden complexities beneath simplicity's veneer.
Contemporary
Zanele, a Lagos office assistant, impulsively returns to South Africa, landing back under her parents' disapproving roof. In search of a fresh start, she takes a job as a live-in nanny for the Ya Naledi family. But when the matriarch is diagnosed with a life-threatening illness, Zanele finds herself stepping into an unexpected role, supporting three children through their emotional upheaval. Just as she begins to stabilize the household, a shocking secret emerges, plunging the family into deeper chaos.
Crime
In the heart of Nigeria, two courageous women navigate a web of fraud, abuse, and the oppressive grip of their corrupt pastor.
Fantasy
Prepare for a pulse-pounding journey as the chilling tale of "Murder" unveils shocking revelations that will leave you breathless. Are you ready to delve into the shadows and uncover the chilling truth?
Kids
Max and his best friend Lily discover an abandoned treehouse in their neighborhood. They decide to fix it up and turn it into a secret clubhouse.
Romance
In a kingdom plagued by deceit and power struggles, a hidden princess and the enigmatic Lord of Darkness forge an extraordinary alliance. As their love deepens amidst political turmoil, they must navigate treacherous secrets and make sacrifices for the sake of their kingdom. Together, they bring justice, prosperity, and unity to their realm, defying all odds and proving that true love can triumph over darkness.
Romance
A reluctant night out with a friend turns into an unexpected side hustle for Daphene: providing home care for Samuel’s brother’s gunshot wound. Nothing more, nothing less. And definitely not becoming Samuel’s new bed-buddy.
Steamy Romance
A woman is on a family holiday at an exclusive hotel in Bali. She meets a handsome stranger while taking a walk along the beach, who helps her break free from the mundanity of her life for the night.
Interracial
A 30-year-old successful black woman named Melisa enters an interracial relationship with her Indian coworker, much to the surprise of her friends and family.
Kids
Join Perry, the most stylish girl in Paris, on a vibrant journey exploring creative ways to express yourself through fashion.
Fantasy
After discovering her fiancé in a compromising position with her best friend, Sonya decides she needs to get away. The sudden inheritance of a house in a small idyllic country town seems like a godsend message from god himself. However, soon after moving into the house, Sonya learns that the house is not exactly what it seems.
Steamy Romance
One woman’s new hobby quickly becomes more than a game when she meets, her magnetic tennis coach. His lingering touches and glances make each lesson a slow burn of unspoken desire. When practice ends with an electrifying kiss, it ignites sparks on and off the court.
Historical
The king is dying, and a storm is brewing. His son, Charles, and his uncle, Ferdinand, both have their eyes set on the throne. When Charles foils Ferdinand's plan to crown himself king, the kingdom finds itself teetering on the edge of civil war. With his beloved son dead, in a fury of rage, Ferdinand declares war. Who will take the throne - the uncle or the nephew?
Inspirational Fiction
Join a South African night cleaner on her quest for purpose, as she navigates self-discovery, embraces interconnectedness, and creates positive change in a world longing for meaning.
Crime
Peter Sullivan wakes up in a hospital bed, confused and disoriented. He believes he is an accountant leading a mundane life. But soon he discovers something disturbing about himself. He begins to question his identity and even his sanity.
Crime
Death has come knocking on Ebonvale’s door. A serial killer has left a trail of bodies that sends chills down the spines of all who hear the news. The most shocking aspect of the terror? The killer’s trademark—taking the eyeballs of their victims, with no regard.
Sci-fi
Book Two of The Great Heist: Six notorious criminals are ambushed, turning their heist into a deadly fight for survival. As alliances shatter and enemies close in, wealth and glory seem within reach. But in a universe where loyalty is scarce and betrayal reigns, will they rise from the ashes or fall to the chaos they’ve unleashed?
Verse Drama
Are those cryptic media posts about you or someone else? Find out who this group of friends are talking about on social media. When people swear, they are not talking about you. Then you know they are.
Interracial
The city of London is engulfed in mass protests, the streets alive with political tension. Immigration has ignited outrage, and amidst the chaos, a scandal is brewing. Two worlds—the Duke's son and a Syrian refugee—are about to collide. Their love is instant, passionate, and when their secret is exposed, it ignites a media frenzy and a political storm.
Kids
Come and meet Mr. Whiskers, Mrs. Fluffy, Miss Purr, Mr. Jasper, and Mr. Snuggle in this heartwarming story that celebrates diversity. It's a special tale that shows kids how our differences make us all unique and wonderful.
Contemporary
Zoe van der Merwe is late for school, distracted by the drama of teenage life and daydreaming about her crush. But will she make it to school, or is there more danger lurking in her day?
Kids
"Where is Mr. Wells?" is an enchanting adventure. Dive into the deep blue sea and join the search for Mr. Wells, a friendly whale who loves to play hide-and-seek with his friends.
Romantic Comedy
In the high-octane world of drag racing, Ziggy, a fearless speed enthusiast, falls in love with George, a police officer. Can their love conquer all, or will it spin out of control? Get ready for a thrilling ride!
Teen
When a young family moves to Patchwood, the last thing they expect is for their world to collide with his. Like everyone else in Patchwood, the find themselves, falling down the rabbit hole of his cold and twisted life.Will they be able to save him or perish like those who have come before them? There is something about him that makes your head turn.
LGBTQ+ Romance
In the bustling heart of Cape Town, Naledi, a reserved newcomer, and Sam, a charismatic local fresh from heartbreak, collide in a grocery aisle—and sparks fly. They share a flirtation that grows into something unforgettable.
Sci-fi
In a world of lies and ambition, con artist Lena Hart has one rule: always look out for number one. When a multi-million-dollar payday lands in her lap, she doesn’t hesitate. But as the stakes rise, Lena risks everything for the ultimate prize, even if it means breaking her own rules.
Romance
On a luxury airline in first class, a flight attendant encounters a captivating stranger. Their interaction quickly escalates into a passionate and intense romance, sparking emotions that linger indefinitely.
Romance
A newly engaged couple's wedding dreams are hijacked by their feuding families, especially their mothers. As tensions rise, the couple's relationship is put to the test. Will they weather the storm of chaos and conflicting desires, or will the wedding bells toll the end of their love story?
Contemporary Poetry
Embark on a digital odyssey as individuals harness the power of the internet, leaving their homelands behind in pursuit of new beginnings, love, and self-discovery.
Fantasy
A young nurse lands her dream job in Cape Town. Her life is instantly turned upside down when she unknowingly encounters a covenant of witches while attending to a dying patient and becomes a walking target.
Crime
A fire at a small fish and chip shop ignites a web of corruption and secrets, plunging Bristol into a tumultuous journey of power, sex, and money.
Sci-fi
Zixuan, fueled by a burning desire for revenge against the emperor, poses as Emperor Julian’s personal nurse, determined to bring him to his knees. But the fierce and unwavering Saxon, Julian’s protective bodyguard, keeps getting in her way, tempting her with every step.
Kids
Get ready to be amazed by the adorable baby animals! Witness the charming and delightful antics of these captivating creatures that will surely leave you spellbound.
Sci-fi
Six of the most infamous criminals are brought together by a shadowy benefactor with an irresistible proposition: infiltrate the impenetrable Moon Bank and claim its legendary vault—a treasure trove of unimaginable wealth.
Drama
A controversial reality star who vanished from TV screens returns to New York on the fifth anniversary of her disappearance just as her show's 10th season premieres. Leaving New Yorkers abuzz with speculation as to uncover the truth behind Celeste's sudden departure and her surprising reappearance.
Mystery
The 'girl-boss' icon is dead, and some of us are glad, may she rot in hell. Behind the filtered selfies and fancy vacations, she was always a hot mess. Now, the question is, who killed her? I know it wasn’t me, but honestly, I’m not losing sleep over it.
Crime
In the heart of Cambridge, a murder reveals a tangled web of secrets. As the Truth emerges, detectives confront a treacherous journey, entwined in their own web of deception.
Romance
When Zoe is invited to catch up for dinner with friends, the last thing she expects is to find herself having dinner with her exes & to make things worse her exes are dating her friends. The dinner is Zoe's worst nightmare as she finds herself walking down memory lane, much to her dismay.
Kids
Sophia’s birthday plans are ruined when her little brother accidentally breaks her favorite toy, Sparkles the Unicorn. Upset, she doesn’t want to celebrate anymore. With help from her friends and Grandma Betty, Sophia learns that birthdays are about love and not just presents.
Comedy
Cynthia's web of lies lands her a job she knows nothing about. Can she fake it 'til she makes it in the cutthroat world of fashion?
Crime
Detective Marco De Luca battles corruption within the Vatican, unraveling a web of secrets, betrayal, and danger that threatens to consume him and the Roman Catholic Church
Contemporary
Sipho’s day starts with bad news: he’s fired again. With his luck seemingly at an all-time low, he envies others’ good fortune. But as chaos unfolds, it raises the question is Sipho truly unlucky, or does fate have one last twist for him?
Crime
Two families unite to uncover the truth behind their daughters' mysterious disappearances. As secrets are unveiled and a sinister organization emerges, they must confront darkness to bring their daughters home, no matter the cost. A heart-wrenching and suspenseful thriller about power, privilege, and the pursuit of justice.
Sci-fi
When the AI aboard their warship evolves beyond its parameters, Commander Elena Dreyfus and her crew must face the chilling reality: Aegis has gone rogue. With survival hanging by a thread, a single question looms: can they stop Aegis before it destroys them all?
Thriller/Crime Fiction
Lucky, a male construction worker uncovers a hidden network of corruption, setting off a relentless battle for justice with high stakes and shocking betrayals.
Romantic Comedy
Follow the journey of two souls who find love through a dating app. Will their virtual connection translate into a real-life happily ever after?
Romance
An executive has a secret that threatens to unravel his entire life. Burdened by a massive debt of 62,494.28 ZAR, he concocts a desperate scheme—to marry off his daughters. But as the truth emerges, it sparks a rebellion led by his daughters, who refuse to be pawns in their father's plan, even if it comes at a heavy price.
Fantasy
Nomusa, Jabari, Sabela, Thando, and Kwame, seekers of the celestial artifact, face trials across realms—balancing light and shadow, love and loss. The fate of Umoya hangs in the balance in this epic tale of destiny and unity
Commentary
When desperation & low self-esteem takes hold of our lives, we often turn to grandiose aspirations with the hope of having a better life. But, in pursuit of happiness, we often forget the answer to our problems is standing right in front of us & our grandiose pursuits are merely masking the issues that keep us up at night.
Erotic Romance
Ama De Morny, an assistant at AB Avenue, faces upheaval when the agency is taken over by The Price Group, a medical tech giant led by 28-year-old CEO Austin Price. After her boss, Greg Omen, dies mysteriously, Ama and Austin are drawn into a passionate relationship, while The Price Group comes under investigation.
Kids
Embark on an exciting expedition to discover the farm's captivating creatures i! The enchanting sounds emitted by these animals are sure to stimulate their curiosity and leave them in awe.
Fantasy
An eight-year-old's dying words ignites a quest to rescue the supernatural world from the clutches of the Dark One. As witches, werewolves, and vampires dance to the Dark One's tune, oblivious to their fates, a storm of chaos brews. Dark magic is on the cusp of a glorious golden age.
Fantasy
Harrison Wells's existence goes against the rules of nature in the supernatural world. Not only is he the son of a witch, but he is also the son of a werewolf and the grandson of a vampire. Harrison Wells according to The Covenant of Shadows and by the the rules of nature must die.
Contemporary
A car accident at a busy Cape Town intersection connects seven strangers. Their lives are forever changed by the event, leading to a series of unforgettable encounters.
Crime
A single mother and her child defy a ruthless crime boss, leading a rebellion against corruption, sacrificing everything for justice and redemption
High Fantasy Adventure
Ashlyn, adopted by werewolves, discovers her hidden powers. Joined by her loyal alpha werewolf boyfriend, Jake, they unravel a dark conspiracy surrounding Ashlyn & her powers that may shake the very foundations of their world.
Family drama
Lucrezia and Alessandro, who flee their past and start a new life in a foreign country. They work hard to fulfill their dream of opening a restaurant and bar named Edna, which becomes a success. But their past catches up with them, and they must face the consequences.
Sci-fi
Emily is a dedicated counter-terrorism agent for the Galactic United Nations Terror Squad. But when a devastating attack shakes New New York and her brother, John, is implicated as the mastermind, everything Emily knows and believes is shattered. As she spirals into a nightmare of guilt and confusion, Emily is forced to confront the unthinkable: who is the man she calls her brother?
Fantasy
Rebecca and Karl as their blossoming romance takes a sinister turn, leading them into a web of danger and dark secrets.
Fantasy
A 200-year-old vampire is determined to end the bloodline of the witch who murdered the love of his life. He kidnaps the granddaughter of his enemy and holds her captive in his mansion. However, soon he is torn between his thirst for revenge and the unexpected stirrings of love.
Fantasy
Jake Kane, Pretoria's leading homicide investigator, is hired to solve a local mechanic's murder. He soon discovers that the victim is just one of many suspicious deaths. Despite the officer's scepticism about the existence of supernatural creatures, Jake is determined to solve the murder.
Expressive
The word impaired is an adjective. The word impaired means damaged or weak. Impaired is an emotional poetry book about disabilities.
Romance
Emma, a free-spirited 30-year-old, discovers love next door with her neighbor Patrick. But their whirlwind romance, set exclusively in the nighttime, takes unexpected turns and hilarious mishaps. Will they find their happily ever after?
Fantasy
In the mystical city of Eldorium, two powerful supernatural families, the Moonshades and the Starhearts are at war. Amidst cosmic forces and ethereal bonds, Seraphina Moonshade and Ethan Starheart find love that defies the shadows of their families' hatred for each other. Will love triumph over ancient grudges, or will the city's destiny be veiled in eternal darkness?
Romance
In a world where vampires, witches, and werewolves coexist, a forbidden love story unfolds across time. Benjamin, a vengeful vampire, seeks revenge after his escape, until he meets Everlyan, an unsuspecting human. As their paths intertwine, their love defies all odds, igniting a chain of events that shape the fate of the realms.
Romance
When two artists from different disciplines collide, it proves an awakening for one of them. Justin Booker, a disciplined novelist, retreats to a coastal town to finish his manuscript. Captivated by Hazel, a mysterious violinist, and the way she makes him wait, he must decide whether to remain within his limits or embrace the chaos.
Romance
Samantha, a 26-year-old woman, stays at the Hamptons house with the Greys. Marcus is taken aback by Samantha's presence and questions why anyone would be friends with someone like Samanatha.
Romance
Noeline, a student at Cape Town University, and her friend Amahle turn to a sugar dating website to find a "Blesser" and make quick cash. They face bad dates, a robbery, and fake sugar daddies until Noeline meets Michael, a man in his forties with his own fantasies.
Poetry
A comforting, heartwarming chat through the stages of grief and emotions of loss. Each verse weaves a story of resilience and renewal, providing a comforting companion.
Fantasy
When Katlego meets the man of her dreams, her excitement quickly turns to disappointment—he already has a girlfriend. Refusing to give up, she devises a bold plan to win him over. But as they say, nothing in life comes for free. Stealing another woman's man always has consequences.
Fantasy
Brandon and his rogue pack of wolves stumble upon a vampire named Samantha. Against the wishes of his pack, Brandon decides to bring her back to their home. But in saving her, has he led Samantha from one dangerous situation into another? Not everyone in the pack is pleased with his decision to spare her life.
Mystery Thriller
Two families are left rattled after their 17-year-old daughters' fail to return home and are nowhere to be found. Prompting a high-profile search for the girls sending their families down a rabbit hole full of twists and turns.




































































































