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Wildlight
Plagued by a relentless stalker, Ryan's life begins to unravel as she questions her own sanity. With each sinister encounter, paranoia takes hold, until a mysterious stranger, Asher, emerges as her unlikely savior. As their connection deepens, Ryan must confront her darkest fears and unravel the truth behind her tormentor's identity, fighting to reclaim her life from the clutches of a chilling obsession. Trigger Self-harm, negative self-talk, cutting, eating disorder, alcohol abuse, stalking, dubious consent, violence, knife play, blood play, spitting, trauma, past child abuse, degrading language, past sexual assault, past homelessness, past domestic violence, foster care, mentions of suicide and overdose, suicidal thoughts, mental health issues, drug use, kidnapping, animal abuse, death of a pet, murder, manipulation, emotional abuse.
- GenresRomance
329 pages, Paperback
Published October 13, 2023
4 people are currently reading
97 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
October 1, 2023
I absolutely loved this book. Ryan was such a fun character to follow. You empathize with her at one moment, laugh with her at another and then yell at her the next! I was so invested in her story! Invested in her history!
I loved that every time I thought I knew what was going on the author threw in a different path! It was a great read!
I loved that every time I thought I knew what was going on the author threw in a different path! It was a great read!
October 25, 2023
I don’t know where to start, because much like JJ‘s other books, I could not put Wildlight down! I am still thinking about the ending of this book. I really enjoyed Ryan as a character. She’s a character that you want to root for, especially after learning about her past. Asher is an interesting character and I would’ve liked to have learned more about him. I know he’s supposed to have a mysterious air to him, but I would’ve liked a little more background. This book definitely kept me on my toes and I really enjoyed it and the ending has me excited for what comes next! Thank you so much JJ for this arc of Wildlight!
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
TWs for Wildlight:
Self-harm, cutting, language, eating disorder, alcohol abuse, stalking, dubious consent, violence, knife play, blood play, trauma, past child abuse, past sexual assault, past homelessness, mentions of suicide and overdose, kidnapping, animal abuse, death of a pet, murder, manipulation, emotional abuse.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
TWs for Wildlight:
Self-harm, cutting, language, eating disorder, alcohol abuse, stalking, dubious consent, violence, knife play, blood play, trauma, past child abuse, past sexual assault, past homelessness, mentions of suicide and overdose, kidnapping, animal abuse, death of a pet, murder, manipulation, emotional abuse.
May 18, 2024
This was a beautifully written dark romance. It had all the elements of suspense, mystery, dark themes, and the spice level was off the charts! I lost sleep because I couldn't put it down.
If you vibe with Haunting Adeline, you need to pick up this book. It was so good!
If you vibe with Haunting Adeline, you need to pick up this book. It was so good!
October 1, 2023
I just want you all to know that JJ has done it again.
My nipples are hard from this book
My nipples are hard from this book
October 2, 2023
wow okay, not sure how to feel about this one to be honest. i loved the writing and the plot, but oh my god this is not for the weak. reading the warnings did not prepare me for how dark this was, and for comparison haunting adeline did not phase me at all. if you enjoy hate sex and frustrating mmcs this book is definitely for you!! the fmc couldn't decide if she hated the mmc until the literal epilogue and i expect at least a smidge of romance even if it's a dark romance
I recieved this as an ARC in exchange for an honest review, thank you to J.J. Smeck for sending it to me!
I recieved this as an ARC in exchange for an honest review, thank you to J.J. Smeck for sending it to me!
October 13, 2023
"It’s important that you know you’re in control of your life. You’re in control of your actions, the consequences you create for yourself, and the rewards that you let yourself experience. No matter what happened in the past."
This was my first book by JJ and I do have to say I enjoy her writing style. Her characters are complex and the plot twists are plentiful. Asher is frustrating. I’m pretty sure this was intended but if not- he frustrated me. The tension and spice between Ryan and Asher was hot and cold but had good pay off at times. The twists had me blaming every character trying to figure out who the stalker was 🤣 I was surprised that I was wrong and also relieved. I’m still trying to gather my emotions because Asher really pissed me off but overall I will say this was a very entertaining (and frustrating but not in a bad way) read. 👏🏼
I received an ARC for this in exchange for my honest opinions.
This was my first book by JJ and I do have to say I enjoy her writing style. Her characters are complex and the plot twists are plentiful. Asher is frustrating. I’m pretty sure this was intended but if not- he frustrated me. The tension and spice between Ryan and Asher was hot and cold but had good pay off at times. The twists had me blaming every character trying to figure out who the stalker was 🤣 I was surprised that I was wrong and also relieved. I’m still trying to gather my emotions because Asher really pissed me off but overall I will say this was a very entertaining (and frustrating but not in a bad way) read. 👏🏼
I received an ARC for this in exchange for my honest opinions.
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September 8, 20241st read: 5⭐️
It’s been months and I’m still not over the dark twisted romance mystery/thriller, mindfu*k of a book that had me unable to put it down.
"Go ahead and run, baby. You know what happens when I catch you."
“No one has ever believed I had a stalker, and sometimes I question it myself.”
Ryan moves to a small town to escape her stalker. A stalker that makes her question every interaction and her own sanity. She takes a job as a social worker at a school where she meets a brooding, bad tempered, Dr. Matthews—the school’s psychologist—to learn that they’ll be working closely together and in the same closed off office. This starts off a VERY scorching, tension-filled environment that will leave you blushing at every interaction.
I like the pacing of the book and made it so that I was unable to put this book down.
The ending had me reeling! I hadn’t felt that level of twisted nausea since Gone Girl. It was just absolutely brilliant. Can’t wait to see where the author goes next from here.
*check ALL trigger warnings before reading*
It’s been months and I’m still not over the dark twisted romance mystery/thriller, mindfu*k of a book that had me unable to put it down.
"Go ahead and run, baby. You know what happens when I catch you."
“No one has ever believed I had a stalker, and sometimes I question it myself.”
Ryan moves to a small town to escape her stalker. A stalker that makes her question every interaction and her own sanity. She takes a job as a social worker at a school where she meets a brooding, bad tempered, Dr. Matthews—the school’s psychologist—to learn that they’ll be working closely together and in the same closed off office. This starts off a VERY scorching, tension-filled environment that will leave you blushing at every interaction.
I like the pacing of the book and made it so that I was unable to put this book down.
The ending had me reeling! I hadn’t felt that level of twisted nausea since Gone Girl. It was just absolutely brilliant. Can’t wait to see where the author goes next from here.
*check ALL trigger warnings before reading*
October 6, 2023
Darkest Thing I’ve Read This Year
Quote:📖
Maybe this is the multiple personality disorder they're talking about. One of my personalities wants to 🤬 this guy and the other five personalities hate him.
Thoughts: 💡
This is by far the darkest and most twisted thing I’ve read all year. There is a constant question of what is actually happening through the whole book, and to be honest I still don’t know. I have ideas, but everything is left so open ended I’m still not sure. This is going to be one that lingers in my mind for a while.
Writing Mechanics: ✍️
The plot is wild and intricate and is told in first person present tense. The writing is engaging and I love the way that Smeck describes things. She has a unique voice with a very edgy vibe. There is also a lot of character development with the FMC, I just don’t understand all of it.
Fun Bits:
⚜️ Unreliable Narrator
⚜️ Dangerous Psychos
⚜️ Some WTF Just Happened Moments
⚜️ A Couple of Wild Smut Scenes
⚜️ Intricate Plot
⚜️ Unexpected Twists
Content Warning:⚠️⚠️⚠️
Self-harm, cutting, language, eating disorder, alcohol abuse, stalking, dubious consent, violence, knife play, blood play, trauma, past child abuse, past sexual assault, past homelessness, mentions of suicide and overdose, kidnapping, animal abuse, death of a pet, murder, manipulation, emotional abuse.
Stats:📊
Spice Scale: 3 🌶️🌶️🌶️/ 5
Character Dev: 4 💙💙💙💙/5
Genre: Dark Romantic Thriller📕
Tropes: Stalker, Enemies to Lovers, Workplace Romance📘
POV: Single 💃🏻
CW: Abuse, Assault, Violence, Death, and all the variations. Read the Content Warnings⚠️⚠️⚠️
Quote:📖
Maybe this is the multiple personality disorder they're talking about. One of my personalities wants to 🤬 this guy and the other five personalities hate him.
Thoughts: 💡
This is by far the darkest and most twisted thing I’ve read all year. There is a constant question of what is actually happening through the whole book, and to be honest I still don’t know. I have ideas, but everything is left so open ended I’m still not sure. This is going to be one that lingers in my mind for a while.
Writing Mechanics: ✍️
The plot is wild and intricate and is told in first person present tense. The writing is engaging and I love the way that Smeck describes things. She has a unique voice with a very edgy vibe. There is also a lot of character development with the FMC, I just don’t understand all of it.
Fun Bits:
⚜️ Unreliable Narrator
⚜️ Dangerous Psychos
⚜️ Some WTF Just Happened Moments
⚜️ A Couple of Wild Smut Scenes
⚜️ Intricate Plot
⚜️ Unexpected Twists
Content Warning:⚠️⚠️⚠️
Self-harm, cutting, language, eating disorder, alcohol abuse, stalking, dubious consent, violence, knife play, blood play, trauma, past child abuse, past sexual assault, past homelessness, mentions of suicide and overdose, kidnapping, animal abuse, death of a pet, murder, manipulation, emotional abuse.
Stats:📊
Spice Scale: 3 🌶️🌶️🌶️/ 5
Character Dev: 4 💙💙💙💙/5
Genre: Dark Romantic Thriller📕
Tropes: Stalker, Enemies to Lovers, Workplace Romance📘
POV: Single 💃🏻
CW: Abuse, Assault, Violence, Death, and all the variations. Read the Content Warnings⚠️⚠️⚠️
October 13, 2023
YES!!!
Oh this was such a good suspenseful book!
Kylie (Ryan) is trying to start her life over, trying to get away from her stalker. Everyone around her previous life didn’t believe her and thought she was crazy.
She is a social worker at a high school, trying to help kids.
She meets Dr. Asher Matthews who is the school’s psychologist who is also helping the kids because the school counselor is out on maternity leave.
Check your triggers.
This is a workplace Romance, forced proximity, enemies to lovers book.
I really enjoyed this book, oh and there is a little cliffhanger.
Oh this was such a good suspenseful book!
Kylie (Ryan) is trying to start her life over, trying to get away from her stalker. Everyone around her previous life didn’t believe her and thought she was crazy.
She is a social worker at a high school, trying to help kids.
She meets Dr. Asher Matthews who is the school’s psychologist who is also helping the kids because the school counselor is out on maternity leave.
Check your triggers.
This is a workplace Romance, forced proximity, enemies to lovers book.
I really enjoyed this book, oh and there is a little cliffhanger.
October 3, 2023
"Wild Light" by JJ Smeck is a captivating dark romance book that dives into the depths of trauma and desire.
The author skillfully tells a story of intense emotions and healing, keeping you hooked from the very first page with a seemingly invisible threat.
Mixing thriller with romance is a hard line to balance, but this book does it perfectly keeping the spice while also balancing the fear and response of the main character.
The characters are complex and flawed, adding a layer of depth to the story. If you're a fan of dark romance, this book is a must-read that will leave you panting. 🖤🥵
P.S Dr.Dickhead is my a hate sec daddy 🔥
The author skillfully tells a story of intense emotions and healing, keeping you hooked from the very first page with a seemingly invisible threat.
Mixing thriller with romance is a hard line to balance, but this book does it perfectly keeping the spice while also balancing the fear and response of the main character.
The characters are complex and flawed, adding a layer of depth to the story. If you're a fan of dark romance, this book is a must-read that will leave you panting. 🖤🥵
P.S Dr.Dickhead is my a hate sec daddy 🔥
October 2, 2023
I will forever read everything that JJ writes! Especially her dark romance. She knows how to write a morally grey character that you love to hate! Asher is such an s$$ but I like Ryan felt drawn to him and his mysterious ways.
This book is full of suspense, spice, and some twisty turns!
You'll love this if you enjoy:
*Stalker Romance
*Dark Romance
*Workplace Romance
*Forced Proximity
*Enemies to lovers
*Age Gap
This book has some heavy triggers so def check them before diving in!
This book is full of suspense, spice, and some twisty turns!
You'll love this if you enjoy:
*Stalker Romance
*Dark Romance
*Workplace Romance
*Forced Proximity
*Enemies to lovers
*Age Gap
This book has some heavy triggers so def check them before diving in!
October 13, 2023
I really enjoyed Wildlight. I didn't realize I had been sitting still for hours while I was reading. I quite literally didn't put it down until I was done reading! It was so dark and spicy, and the trigger warnings were everywhere!
The FMC is Ryan and we see the storyline unfold from her point of view. I felt like I was on an emotional rollercoaster with her the entire time.
Ryan has a stalker and takes desperate measures to get away, including moving across the country.
As the reader, we don't know any more about her stalker than she does, which I think really upped the thrill factor. I spent the entire book trying to figure it out!
Asher is the MMC. He is the definition of hot and cold behavior. He definitely kept Ryan on her toes and had me wondering what his motives were.
I don't want to give anymore away because this needs to be experienced as you read.
If you love all the trigger warnings, then you should absolutely add this to your TBR.
I received an ARC of this book. All opinions are my own.
The FMC is Ryan and we see the storyline unfold from her point of view. I felt like I was on an emotional rollercoaster with her the entire time.
Ryan has a stalker and takes desperate measures to get away, including moving across the country.
As the reader, we don't know any more about her stalker than she does, which I think really upped the thrill factor. I spent the entire book trying to figure it out!
Asher is the MMC. He is the definition of hot and cold behavior. He definitely kept Ryan on her toes and had me wondering what his motives were.
I don't want to give anymore away because this needs to be experienced as you read.
If you love all the trigger warnings, then you should absolutely add this to your TBR.
I received an ARC of this book. All opinions are my own.
October 15, 2023
This is the first book I have read by this author and it completely took me by surprise! I thought it was going to be a dark, stalker romance but it turned out to be so much more than that! I loved how the story was filled with so much drama and tension and the fact that when I thought I was understanding what was going on, the story took a turn and was wondering what would happen next! The characters were intriguing and I got pulled into their story right way as well! Overall, this book kept me on the edge of my seat and I definitely recommend!
October 3, 2023
HOLY CRAP. I absolutely loved this book. I thought I knew how it was going to end, then I didn't, then I thought so again, but I was so wrong. The twists and turns with this had me hooked. I devoured it and loved every second. You killed it with this one, JJ! I highly recommend this book!
October 6, 2023
WILDLIGHT
By JJ Smeck
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
This one had me intrigued from the beginning and asking myself… did she make it up? Is it him? Is it someone else? Is he lying? Is she? WHODUNNIT!?! 🤣
Some parts had me laughing HARD while others held me in a suspenseful thriller like gasp. If you enjoy angry hate seggs and powerful frustrating handsome mmcs try this one!!
“Shit, is this your dad?!”
“More like my daddy..”
🥵🥵🥵
#wildlight #jjsmeck #darkromance #bookish #bookaddict #readersofinstagram #bookaholic #readingtime #bookshelf #instabooks #bookblogger #bookreview #booktok #reading #booklover #bookworm #booknerd #goodreads #aussiebookstagrammers #aussies #australianreaders #smut #darkromance #reading #bookstagram #bookstagrammer #readersofinstagram #instabook #booksofinstagram #review #arcreader #whychoose
By JJ Smeck
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
This one had me intrigued from the beginning and asking myself… did she make it up? Is it him? Is it someone else? Is he lying? Is she? WHODUNNIT!?! 🤣
Some parts had me laughing HARD while others held me in a suspenseful thriller like gasp. If you enjoy angry hate seggs and powerful frustrating handsome mmcs try this one!!
“Shit, is this your dad?!”
“More like my daddy..”
🥵🥵🥵
#wildlight #jjsmeck #darkromance #bookish #bookaddict #readersofinstagram #bookaholic #readingtime #bookshelf #instabooks #bookblogger #bookreview #booktok #reading #booklover #bookworm #booknerd #goodreads #aussiebookstagrammers #aussies #australianreaders #smut #darkromance #reading #bookstagram #bookstagrammer #readersofinstagram #instabook #booksofinstagram #review #arcreader #whychoose
October 20, 2023
I'm Rating this book 4.5⭐️ Just wow is all I have, this book has left me shook, I have no idea how to feel I loved it and I can't wait to read more of your work💓
October 14, 2023
Wildlight is a stalker romance and a psychological thriller. This dark story follows Kylie Beatrum, aka Ryan. She has just moved across the country and changed her name in an attempt to get away from her stalker. This unknown man leaves her notes (often threatening) and unwanted gifts. People around her have had mysterious accidents, disappeared and even died. It didn't matter how many police reports she filed, people didn't believe her. She even ended up being institutionalized. At times she questioned her own sanity wondering if it was possible that she made it all up, or perhaps she had multiple personalities and was responsible for her own threats.
Unfortunately, it looks like he may have followed her.
At her new job as a social worker within a high school filled with underprivileged kids she hopes to be able to make a difference. It is there she meet Dr. Asher Matthews, the school psychologist. Asher is incredibly attractive and has a British accent. She can't help but be drawn to him, even though he comes across quite gruff, with a flat affect.
While he could be gentle and considerate, it doesn't take long for Kylie/Ryan to see a different side to Asher. The forceful and commanding Asher seems to be just what she needs but there are small things that lead her to suspect that there's more to Asher than he seems. Could he be her stalker, and if so, could she still want him?
This is a dark story filled with plenty of triggers and difficult content that can be hard to read. While I thought this book was brilliantly written, I encourage you to thoroughly read through the triggers and actively consider whether any of them might adversely affect your mental health before reading.
My heart ached for the FMC while reading her story and seeing everything she has endured over her life. No one should have to survive so much trauma, and yet she did. It was too easy to get caught up in the storyline and come up with an assortment of possibilities to try to find explanations for events, and figure out who is behind it all. The author does an amazing job of keeping readers captivated and engaged.
The very end of the book looks like there could be a sequel, but I suppose I'll have to wait and see.
I actually pulled two #NewToMeWords in this book. The first is caviling. The sentence in the book reads, "It's hard to balance our relationship, consisting of insults and caviling, when it starts to get serious." A cavil is a petty or unnecessary objection. The second is malefactor. The sentence in the book reads, "After that I fell in love with this violent malefactor..." I wasn't surprised to find out that it means a person who commits a crime of some other wrong. It's the opposite of benefactor. I didn't realize that such a word existed. I love learning new things!
Unfortunately, it looks like he may have followed her.
At her new job as a social worker within a high school filled with underprivileged kids she hopes to be able to make a difference. It is there she meet Dr. Asher Matthews, the school psychologist. Asher is incredibly attractive and has a British accent. She can't help but be drawn to him, even though he comes across quite gruff, with a flat affect.
While he could be gentle and considerate, it doesn't take long for Kylie/Ryan to see a different side to Asher. The forceful and commanding Asher seems to be just what she needs but there are small things that lead her to suspect that there's more to Asher than he seems. Could he be her stalker, and if so, could she still want him?
This is a dark story filled with plenty of triggers and difficult content that can be hard to read. While I thought this book was brilliantly written, I encourage you to thoroughly read through the triggers and actively consider whether any of them might adversely affect your mental health before reading.
My heart ached for the FMC while reading her story and seeing everything she has endured over her life. No one should have to survive so much trauma, and yet she did. It was too easy to get caught up in the storyline and come up with an assortment of possibilities to try to find explanations for events, and figure out who is behind it all. The author does an amazing job of keeping readers captivated and engaged.
The very end of the book looks like there could be a sequel, but I suppose I'll have to wait and see.
I actually pulled two #NewToMeWords in this book. The first is caviling. The sentence in the book reads, "It's hard to balance our relationship, consisting of insults and caviling, when it starts to get serious." A cavil is a petty or unnecessary objection. The second is malefactor. The sentence in the book reads, "After that I fell in love with this violent malefactor..." I wasn't surprised to find out that it means a person who commits a crime of some other wrong. It's the opposite of benefactor. I didn't realize that such a word existed. I love learning new things!
October 14, 2023
RELEASE DAY REVIEW
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨/5 Stars
🌶️🌶️🌶️🫚 /5 Spice
🌕🌕🌕🌗/ 5 Darkness
🩷🩷🩷/5 Feels
TW: heavy mental health triggers, death of pet, and self harm among many others, read your warnings
📖: Dark Romance Dark romance, Stalker, Workplace romance, Enemies to lovers, Banter, Age gap, Morally gray
When a stalker forces Ryan to leave her old life and horrible past behind and start anew, she becomes a school social worker named Kylie. But just when she begins to relax into her new life, her stalker returns to torment her. Will her co-worker, broody and dark Asher be her savior or her downfall.
➕Asher’s character is well developed and has so many layers
➕Book will make you have all the emotions, from crying, laughing, cringing, and sweatin’
➕lots of action, no slow parts
➕the 🔪 sceneeeee
➕their private office 🥵
➖ I wish one characters back story was a little more developed. I’m left a bit confused on him.
JJ did a wonderful job on this, and it’s a fun st@lker read! Def worth picking up!
Available on Amazon and KU TODAY!
#newdarkromance #workplaceromance #officeromance #enemiestolovers #traumaread #stabbyreads #morallygray #stalkerromance #stalker #banter #bloodplay #knifeplay #spitting #kinkyreads #spicybook #darkromancethriller #bookswithplaylists #indieauthor #darkromancedrop #smuttybooks #darkromancebooks #kindleunlimited #kindleunlimiteddarkromance #darkbookstagram #bookstagram
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨/5 Stars
🌶️🌶️🌶️🫚 /5 Spice
🌕🌕🌕🌗/ 5 Darkness
🩷🩷🩷/5 Feels
TW: heavy mental health triggers, death of pet, and self harm among many others, read your warnings
📖: Dark Romance Dark romance, Stalker, Workplace romance, Enemies to lovers, Banter, Age gap, Morally gray
When a stalker forces Ryan to leave her old life and horrible past behind and start anew, she becomes a school social worker named Kylie. But just when she begins to relax into her new life, her stalker returns to torment her. Will her co-worker, broody and dark Asher be her savior or her downfall.
➕Asher’s character is well developed and has so many layers
➕Book will make you have all the emotions, from crying, laughing, cringing, and sweatin’
➕lots of action, no slow parts
➕the 🔪 sceneeeee
➕their private office 🥵
➖ I wish one characters back story was a little more developed. I’m left a bit confused on him.
JJ did a wonderful job on this, and it’s a fun st@lker read! Def worth picking up!
Available on Amazon and KU TODAY!
#newdarkromance #workplaceromance #officeromance #enemiestolovers #traumaread #stabbyreads #morallygray #stalkerromance #stalker #banter #bloodplay #knifeplay #spitting #kinkyreads #spicybook #darkromancethriller #bookswithplaylists #indieauthor #darkromancedrop #smuttybooks #darkromancebooks #kindleunlimited #kindleunlimiteddarkromance #darkbookstagram #bookstagram
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 30, 2023
I finished my first serial killer dark romance last night, and I'm shook!
"I feel like I'm supposed to remember her name from orientation yesterday, but remembering names is not in my skill set. My lack of sleep, combined with my resting bitch face, should repel further interactions."
"I've got with a bottle of Moscato, maybe two, and a dark romance book"
I've never resonated with a book more 🤣, but moving on to the more juicy bits... The story evolves between a school social worker and a school psychologist, but all the while she's running from her stalker, or has he already found her?
The thrill of the chase, while watching the main character, Ryan, fall in love, kept me on the edge of my seat! Who/what would die next, and how did it all tie to her?!
"The relief has finally come, and I feel ready to wait for whoever shows up to hurt me. I expect him to show up at any time and make me pay for whatever imaginary thing he's accusing me of now."
And my last favorite quote...
"Psychopaths are great at pretending they care, motivated by their narcissism. Unable to experience and show their emotions, he's always been able to keep his face clear of emotion. His flat affect usually only cracks during sex, and I crave it."
I squealed with delight when I came across that last quote. We (dark romance lovers) LOVE watching the domineering male crack during the sexual escapades. And this book had so many spicy, taboo scenes!! It was amazing! So Asher, the domineering male, cracked quite a lot.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶/5
"I feel like I'm supposed to remember her name from orientation yesterday, but remembering names is not in my skill set. My lack of sleep, combined with my resting bitch face, should repel further interactions."
"I've got with a bottle of Moscato, maybe two, and a dark romance book"
I've never resonated with a book more 🤣, but moving on to the more juicy bits... The story evolves between a school social worker and a school psychologist, but all the while she's running from her stalker, or has he already found her?
The thrill of the chase, while watching the main character, Ryan, fall in love, kept me on the edge of my seat! Who/what would die next, and how did it all tie to her?!
"The relief has finally come, and I feel ready to wait for whoever shows up to hurt me. I expect him to show up at any time and make me pay for whatever imaginary thing he's accusing me of now."
And my last favorite quote...
"Psychopaths are great at pretending they care, motivated by their narcissism. Unable to experience and show their emotions, he's always been able to keep his face clear of emotion. His flat affect usually only cracks during sex, and I crave it."
I squealed with delight when I came across that last quote. We (dark romance lovers) LOVE watching the domineering male crack during the sexual escapades. And this book had so many spicy, taboo scenes!! It was amazing! So Asher, the domineering male, cracked quite a lot.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶/5
October 16, 2023
This was my first JJ Smeck book and I was shocked by the hold this book had on my soul. I had to wait a couple days to let it all settle in before I could sit down to write this review.
In my usual fashion I went into this book completely blind and I do not regret that decision. It took me at least half way through to decided if I was reading more of a dark romance or more of a psychological thriller. 😱I truly could not figure out the MMC or the FMC the entire time and honestly …. Do I even have that figured out now??
To say this book and it’s characters are morally gray is such an understatement. It had me not only questioning ALL of the them and the author, but also myself 😆 I cannot even count how many times I was like “omg what is wrong with these people!!” “Who even thinks of this stuff” “Damn, thats hot…. Wow. What is wrong with me“. It was absolutely FERAL. - My favorite genre of all.
This was a perfect addition to my spooky season reads, and if trigger warnings are part of your book love language then you will want to pick up this one!! It was a.m.a.z.i.n.g.
Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Thank you JJ Smeck for gifting me this ARC in exchange for my honest review. 🩷💜
⚠️⛔️Definitely check the trigger warnings before going into this book!!! ⚠️⛔️
In my usual fashion I went into this book completely blind and I do not regret that decision. It took me at least half way through to decided if I was reading more of a dark romance or more of a psychological thriller. 😱I truly could not figure out the MMC or the FMC the entire time and honestly …. Do I even have that figured out now??
To say this book and it’s characters are morally gray is such an understatement. It had me not only questioning ALL of the them and the author, but also myself 😆 I cannot even count how many times I was like “omg what is wrong with these people!!” “Who even thinks of this stuff” “Damn, thats hot…. Wow. What is wrong with me“. It was absolutely FERAL. - My favorite genre of all.
This was a perfect addition to my spooky season reads, and if trigger warnings are part of your book love language then you will want to pick up this one!! It was a.m.a.z.i.n.g.
Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Thank you JJ Smeck for gifting me this ARC in exchange for my honest review. 🩷💜
⚠️⛔️Definitely check the trigger warnings before going into this book!!! ⚠️⛔️
October 13, 2023
I DEVOURED this book! Between the mysterious stalker, our MCs pasts, and the chemistry between the two, I could not stop turning the page.
Please make sure to read the trigger warnings beforehand.
Ryan is a confident, stunning FMC who is plagued by a relentless stalker and a traumatic past. After moving to Florida, she thought she escaped the one haunting her until those familiar letters start appearing around her house and workplace. She then meets Asher, who slowly becomes her unlikely savior. However, is he really who he claims to be.
Asher is our gruff, but caring MMC who is the school's psychologist. He and Ryan began their relationship with snarky words and stare offs. As they get closer the spark fly, and the spice is *chef's kiss*! However, things may not be as they seem and a murderous, psychotic stalker is still in the shadows...
Please make sure to read the trigger warnings beforehand.
Ryan is a confident, stunning FMC who is plagued by a relentless stalker and a traumatic past. After moving to Florida, she thought she escaped the one haunting her until those familiar letters start appearing around her house and workplace. She then meets Asher, who slowly becomes her unlikely savior. However, is he really who he claims to be.
Asher is our gruff, but caring MMC who is the school's psychologist. He and Ryan began their relationship with snarky words and stare offs. As they get closer the spark fly, and the spice is *chef's kiss*! However, things may not be as they seem and a murderous, psychotic stalker is still in the shadows...
October 14, 2023
Oh God. This book was dark and gritty and oh so delicious. It spoke to my dark heart. I loved every second of the book. It was confusing at times but the final reveal blew me. I had kinda guessed a few aspects but it was still so good when everything was revealed. I was craving for so much more. I want to see what other stuff Asher and Ryan/Kylie goes on to do with each other and also how they improve the world. I wouldn't mind a sequel for this *waggling eyebrows*.
I can't say more, just that I'm shook and still in a little shock about it. I think I want to do a reread to see if I missed details lmao. Ahhhh, SO FREAKIN' GOOD!!
Highly, highly recommended to all dark romance lovers. Run, don't walk to Amazon and get this masterpiece!
- bookishfrag
I can't say more, just that I'm shook and still in a little shock about it. I think I want to do a reread to see if I missed details lmao. Ahhhh, SO FREAKIN' GOOD!!
Highly, highly recommended to all dark romance lovers. Run, don't walk to Amazon and get this masterpiece!
- bookishfrag
October 15, 2023
Check the content warnings.
A perfect combination of hot heat and thrilling suspense. This read kept me on the edge of my seat and losing sleep. Run and read it immediately.
The detail was perfect. It had a perfect balance of suspense and stagnation. The ending definitely leads into something more, so I'm excited to see what's in store next. There are many different kinks, and they were all written well. The mouth on the MMC was so hot, too. I don't listen to music while reading, but Smeck has conveniently set up music for listening while reading to help set the mood for those who do.
My heat rating is based on the amount of occurrence, length of scenes, and how filthy/unconventional the scenes are. This gets a 4/5 🌶.
A perfect combination of hot heat and thrilling suspense. This read kept me on the edge of my seat and losing sleep. Run and read it immediately.
The detail was perfect. It had a perfect balance of suspense and stagnation. The ending definitely leads into something more, so I'm excited to see what's in store next. There are many different kinks, and they were all written well. The mouth on the MMC was so hot, too. I don't listen to music while reading, but Smeck has conveniently set up music for listening while reading to help set the mood for those who do.
My heat rating is based on the amount of occurrence, length of scenes, and how filthy/unconventional the scenes are. This gets a 4/5 🌶.
October 13, 2023
Okay, where do I even begin?!
1) Read this immediately
2) Someone find me an Asher Matthews please & thanks 🤤
Warning: mild mild mild spoilers, like possibly not even considered spoilers…
On a real note, I had so much fun reading this book. I’d like to start by saying that JJ did a wonderful job with the trigger warnings and I’m hugely grateful for them. Also, her writing in this book is so smooth, it flows so well, I completely forgot I was reading and felt as if I were watching a movie multiple times. JJ also wrote such amazing representations of mental health disorders, I personally connected with multiple aspects word for word that she wrote. It’s evident that she knows exactly what she wrote about!
While reading I didn’t come across a single bit that seemed to drag on, that pacing was wonderful and consistent throughout the entire book. Honestly, if motherhood and work hadn’t gotten in the way then I would’ve had this book devoured in half a day.
On to the story itself! I LOVED the FMC, Ryan (aka Kylie). She has such an in depth past, deep trauma, and with that still has sass and strong emotions towards the people she cares about, like her students. The actual stalking part of the book was actually so amusing! It was nerve racking not knowing what the stalker had planned for her next, but really cool to read the notes he left and the Bible verses in order to try to teach her some pretty harsh lessons.
Now the spice in this book is 🤤🔥
I absolutely LOVE the relationship between FMC & Asher. It’s confusing & keeps you on edge but in the best way. So basically, overall, this book was phenomenal and I highly recommend 🖤
1) Read this immediately
2) Someone find me an Asher Matthews please & thanks 🤤
Warning: mild mild mild spoilers, like possibly not even considered spoilers…
On a real note, I had so much fun reading this book. I’d like to start by saying that JJ did a wonderful job with the trigger warnings and I’m hugely grateful for them. Also, her writing in this book is so smooth, it flows so well, I completely forgot I was reading and felt as if I were watching a movie multiple times. JJ also wrote such amazing representations of mental health disorders, I personally connected with multiple aspects word for word that she wrote. It’s evident that she knows exactly what she wrote about!
While reading I didn’t come across a single bit that seemed to drag on, that pacing was wonderful and consistent throughout the entire book. Honestly, if motherhood and work hadn’t gotten in the way then I would’ve had this book devoured in half a day.
On to the story itself! I LOVED the FMC, Ryan (aka Kylie). She has such an in depth past, deep trauma, and with that still has sass and strong emotions towards the people she cares about, like her students. The actual stalking part of the book was actually so amusing! It was nerve racking not knowing what the stalker had planned for her next, but really cool to read the notes he left and the Bible verses in order to try to teach her some pretty harsh lessons.
Now the spice in this book is 🤤🔥
I absolutely LOVE the relationship between FMC & Asher. It’s confusing & keeps you on edge but in the best way. So basically, overall, this book was phenomenal and I highly recommend 🖤
October 12, 2023
OMG, this was good!
Not only did it have spice, but it also had a great storyline!
I liked Ryan and felt that her story was tragic but also made her stronger. I like how she wanted to help people deal with their traumas after all she had been through in her life.
As for Asher, we love a morally grey character! I still don't know what to think of him!
I definitely had more questions at the end of it!
I would definitely recommend this! Go out and get this book!
Side note: Please be mindful of the trigger warnings! This is for sure a dark, heavy story and mental health is important!
Not only did it have spice, but it also had a great storyline!
I liked Ryan and felt that her story was tragic but also made her stronger. I like how she wanted to help people deal with their traumas after all she had been through in her life.
As for Asher, we love a morally grey character! I still don't know what to think of him!
I definitely had more questions at the end of it!
I would definitely recommend this! Go out and get this book!
Side note: Please be mindful of the trigger warnings! This is for sure a dark, heavy story and mental health is important!
October 14, 2023
Oh my god! All the stars! This book was amazingly dark and twisty. It kept me on the edge of my seat and I genuinely had no idea what was going to happen next. I was questioning everything! Ryan is our FMC and this woman is so freaking tough, she’s been through it in her life and is such a badass. And our MMC is Asher and dear lord this man is dark dangerous and has a filthy mouth. From the first page I was hooked, and I literally could not put it down! If you are a dark romance fan, this is a MUST READ!!
October 16, 2023
This book started off a little hard for me to follow but it is a new to me author. I am so glad I stuck around because this book kept me on the edge of my seat. The FMC would drive me crazy sometimes and I would want to smack some sense into her. Then all of the sudden, I started to see her logic and where she was coming from. This book is a solid reminder of my love for toxic men because Asher has taken his place on the book boyfriend list. I love the suspense and the constant need to question what I was thinking. I will be reading more of this author!
October 2, 2023
What a ride! This is a psychological, Sexy, Stalker romance that has all of the spice and kink but also a thrilling stalker element that will keep you on your toes.
Ryan has had a traumatic experience growing up in the foster system, and to top it all off, she now has a stalker that has followed her to her new job and state. Who can she trust? Can she even trust herself?
Highly recommend this sexy thriller.
Please check trigger warnings ⚠️
Ryan has had a traumatic experience growing up in the foster system, and to top it all off, she now has a stalker that has followed her to her new job and state. Who can she trust? Can she even trust herself?
Highly recommend this sexy thriller.
Please check trigger warnings ⚠️
October 13, 2023
ᴀʀᴄ ʙᴏᴏᴋ ʀᴇᴠɪᴇᴡ
ᴡɪʟᴅʟɪɢʜᴛ
ᴊᴊ sᴍᴇᴄᴋ
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
•sᴛᴀʟᴋᴇʀ ʀᴏᴍᴀɴᴄᴇ
•ᴅᴀʀᴋ, ᴀɴɢsᴛʏ, ɢᴜᴛsʏ
•ʀᴏᴍᴀɴᴛɪᴄ sᴜsᴘᴇɴsᴇ
•ᴛʜʀɪʟʟɪɴɢ ᴡᴏʀᴋᴘʟᴀᴄᴇ ʀᴏᴍᴀɴᴄᴇ
•ᴇɴᴇᴍɪᴇs ᴛᴏ ʟᴏᴠᴇʀs
•ᴍᴏʀᴀʟʟʏ ɢʀᴇʏ ᴍᴄ’s
Yay for the best release day for my babe ! This one is not for the faint of heart. Check the trigger warnings. It’s DARK- but I enjoyed it so, so much. The spice hits just right, and I was reading so fast to try and figure out what the heck was going to happen 🫠
Ryan was a FMC that I could resonate with- working in education and trying to move on from the trauma of her past. Plus she is a red wine girl 🍷💁🏼♀️ Enter brooding MMC Asher, school psychologist that tries to help those who can’t help themselves.
Does that include Ryan? Will secrets unravel when the past makes it way to the present? You’ll have to read to see! I myself was confused with what was going to happen- I had to gobble it up quickly!
“𝙄𝙩’𝙨 𝙞𝙢𝙥𝙤𝙧𝙩𝙖𝙣𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙠𝙣𝙤𝙬 𝙮𝙤𝙪’𝙧𝙚 𝙞𝙣 𝙘𝙤𝙣𝙩𝙧𝙤𝙡 𝙤𝙛 𝙮𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙡𝙞𝙛𝙚. 𝙔𝙤𝙪’𝙧𝙚 𝙞𝙣 𝙘𝙤𝙣𝙩𝙧𝙤𝙡 𝙤𝙛 𝙮𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙖𝙘𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣𝙨, 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙘𝙤𝙣𝙨𝙚𝙦𝙪𝙚𝙣𝙘𝙚𝙨 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙘𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙩𝙚 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙮𝙤𝙪𝙧𝙨𝙚𝙡𝙛, 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙧𝙚𝙬𝙖𝙧𝙙𝙨 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙡𝙚𝙩 𝙮𝙤𝙪𝙧𝙨𝙚𝙡𝙛 𝙚𝙭𝙥𝙚𝙧𝙞𝙚𝙣𝙘𝙚. 𝙉𝙤 𝙢𝙖𝙩𝙩𝙚𝙧 𝙬𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙝𝙖𝙥𝙥𝙚𝙣𝙚𝙙 𝙞𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙥𝙖𝙨𝙩.”
ᴡɪʟᴅʟɪɢʜᴛ
ᴊᴊ sᴍᴇᴄᴋ
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
•sᴛᴀʟᴋᴇʀ ʀᴏᴍᴀɴᴄᴇ
•ᴅᴀʀᴋ, ᴀɴɢsᴛʏ, ɢᴜᴛsʏ
•ʀᴏᴍᴀɴᴛɪᴄ sᴜsᴘᴇɴsᴇ
•ᴛʜʀɪʟʟɪɴɢ ᴡᴏʀᴋᴘʟᴀᴄᴇ ʀᴏᴍᴀɴᴄᴇ
•ᴇɴᴇᴍɪᴇs ᴛᴏ ʟᴏᴠᴇʀs
•ᴍᴏʀᴀʟʟʏ ɢʀᴇʏ ᴍᴄ’s
Yay for the best release day for my babe ! This one is not for the faint of heart. Check the trigger warnings. It’s DARK- but I enjoyed it so, so much. The spice hits just right, and I was reading so fast to try and figure out what the heck was going to happen 🫠
Ryan was a FMC that I could resonate with- working in education and trying to move on from the trauma of her past. Plus she is a red wine girl 🍷💁🏼♀️ Enter brooding MMC Asher, school psychologist that tries to help those who can’t help themselves.
Does that include Ryan? Will secrets unravel when the past makes it way to the present? You’ll have to read to see! I myself was confused with what was going to happen- I had to gobble it up quickly!
“𝙄𝙩’𝙨 𝙞𝙢𝙥𝙤𝙧𝙩𝙖𝙣𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙠𝙣𝙤𝙬 𝙮𝙤𝙪’𝙧𝙚 𝙞𝙣 𝙘𝙤𝙣𝙩𝙧𝙤𝙡 𝙤𝙛 𝙮𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙡𝙞𝙛𝙚. 𝙔𝙤𝙪’𝙧𝙚 𝙞𝙣 𝙘𝙤𝙣𝙩𝙧𝙤𝙡 𝙤𝙛 𝙮𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙖𝙘𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣𝙨, 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙘𝙤𝙣𝙨𝙚𝙦𝙪𝙚𝙣𝙘𝙚𝙨 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙘𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙩𝙚 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙮𝙤𝙪𝙧𝙨𝙚𝙡𝙛, 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙧𝙚𝙬𝙖𝙧𝙙𝙨 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙡𝙚𝙩 𝙮𝙤𝙪𝙧𝙨𝙚𝙡𝙛 𝙚𝙭𝙥𝙚𝙧𝙞𝙚𝙣𝙘𝙚. 𝙉𝙤 𝙢𝙖𝙩𝙩𝙚𝙧 𝙬𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙝𝙖𝙥𝙥𝙚𝙣𝙚𝙙 𝙞𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙥𝙖𝙨𝙩.”
October 1, 2023
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶️🌶️🌶️.5/5
I’m convinced J.J. writes the best dark romances…ever. This thrilling stalker dark romance is so damn good. I finished it in a day because I could not put it down. Twists, turns, plot twists. Of course since it’s a J.J. book the spice is spicing.
Of course, please read the TW. This is a dark stalker romance so it’s dark - just be prepared.
If this is your thing - read this. Its fantastic!
🌶️🌶️🌶️.5/5
I’m convinced J.J. writes the best dark romances…ever. This thrilling stalker dark romance is so damn good. I finished it in a day because I could not put it down. Twists, turns, plot twists. Of course since it’s a J.J. book the spice is spicing.
Of course, please read the TW. This is a dark stalker romance so it’s dark - just be prepared.
If this is your thing - read this. Its fantastic!
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