My Next Obsession

by Beth Kay

I’m not obsessive. I just love and feel really hard and really deep. I also have these compulsions to see an idea to completion once it pops into my head- no matter the cost. All my life I’ve been told I’m being too much, and doing too much.

My childhood was traumatic, and my relationships have all been toxic and tumultuous. So now I have to know what everyone is doing at all times when they aren’t with me. And if you lie or deceive me? Well let’s just say, no one ever gets away with hurting me.

When I meet Micah, I think I have finally found the one. The man is hot, caring, and knows his way around a woman. He knows all the tricks and makes me feel worshipped. I am crazy about him. Sneak into his house kind of crazy.

But there is someone whispering in my ear that he is not who he seems to be. My stalker. Someone who seems to know Micah better than I do. Someone who seems determined to steal my interest from him. And it might be working…

When the stalker becomes the stalked, how deep will the obsession go…

Genres: Dark Romance, Dark, Contemporary Romance

215 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 14, 2025

Reviews

[Morgan Hopkins · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was fantastic. I couldn’t put it down I fell in love with the characters. Please check the triggers before diving in this book was a wild ride All the twist and turns

[Stephanie Martinez · Rating 5 out of 5]

Give me all the female rage and women empowerment books out there! Jo is a force to be reckoned with. Yes, she is a little mentally unstable at times and yes, her impulses are not what most people would act on. BUT! She owns it. She has led a tough life with so much trauma, yet she is a strong woman - who can be a tad obsessive. And when she finds out someone is obsessed with her? Well, she loves it.

“What in the sexy stalker fuck is happening right now?” - pg. 154

This book had a lot of dark moments, but it also had funny, tender, and sexy moments (still thinking about the alley scene! 🥵).

While I loved the book, I recommend that you check TWs bc there are a lot and your mental health matters.

[Mariah Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was incredible!!! The whole world just sucked you in. I fell in love with the characters, although my favorite is Micah! Remember to check your triggers before jumping in!

[Ashley · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC of this novel in exchange for an honest review. The following opinion is my own:

First off, I need to say that I rate books 90% based on emotion. For example, did I have fun reading it? Did it make me cry or laugh or feel all the feels? The other 10% is everything else, plotlines/holes, pace, writing style etc.

Anyways about My Next Obsession: Great read! Especially for a debut novel. The FMC, Jolene, really got the short end of the stick when it comes to her life. All her actions as she grows up and mental health issues are a result. Mental health issues and trauma take center stage in this story but it's well done. The story captivated me from page one and I had trouble putting it down, even sneaking in a chapter here and there at work. It's a fast paced read and short enough that you don't have to wait long for answers. This is a dark read and not for the faint of heart, READ THE TRIGGER WARNINGS!!! The ending wasn't necessarily a cliffhanger but it did leave you wondering what Jolene was going to do next. Overall I highly recommend giving it a shot!

[Casey · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is an unhinged rollercoaster of emotions! From the very first page, I found myself completely on the edge of my seat with this story. Jolene’s childhood is depicted with such raw intensity; it’s heartbreaking to witness her struggle and how her trauma has her searching for love and affection. The author does an incredible job of drawing you into Jo’s world, revealing her perspective on the people around her. One moment, they shine brightly in her eyes, and the next, their true, often darker selves come to light. Jo herself is an incredibly complex character, strong yet unpredictable. I found myself captivated by her fierceness and vulnerability, especially when she nonchalantly accepts having a stalker because of her own tendency to obsess over the ones she loves. It adds a deep layer of intrigue to her persona. The narrative touches on sensitive topics that come with trigger warnings due to Jo’s traumatic past, but it’s written in such a way it makes you want to protect her. The book wrapped up beautifully but did have a cliffhanger that has me eagerly anticipating what comes next.

[Amber · Rating 4 out of 5]

My Next Obsession is a wild ride. Jolene had to grow up way too fast. Her past is very traumatic even with a mother that doesn't care. As she grew up, she became a fiercely independent woman that was also a bit obsessive. She meets Micah and believes he may be someone she can have in her life long term. Her stalker doesn't think so, they try to warn her about him. Will she finally see the real Michah? Will her stalker reveal themselves? What will happen?

[Charmelle Hendriks · Rating 5 out of 5]

💥ARC Review

Wow. Just WOW!

After Alpha reading this, I didn't even think twice about ARC reading it too - it was just THAT good!

Even though the spice is SPICING🥵 This story is SO MUCH more than just a smutty read. It's filled with rage and tragedy and real‐life struggles. And also some truly beautiful moments.

There is some serious childhood trauma - I seriously just wanted to hug little Jolene and protect her from all the horrific things💔 - so there's reason behind why she's so unhinged😂 even more unhinged than you could imagine.

I also really enjoyed Rae's character - she fits so well into the complete insanity😉

[GroceReadsAfterDark · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is wild! Nothing but smut. It’s a book of trauma, death, stalking and of course sex. You definitely need to read the TW if you are sensitive to certain subjects.

I was so mad at Tim, I absolutely hated him. Jo was so young and all she wanted was love and to be wanted. Like any little girl…well any person wants. But she was done wrong and her mother wasn’t any better.

She has a secret stalker who leaves her flowers. So will she find out who this stalker is? What is going to happen. Well you will find out. Once you open the book you are unable to put it down. I cried with her, got angry with her. I felt all her emotions that she felt. To me that is what makes the book so good.

This is a rollercoaster of emotions so buckle up and hold on because this is a wild one.

[littlesmuttyone · Rating 5 out of 5]

Holy shit that was a ride of a lifetime of trauma, unhinged thoughts & actions, healing and so much more

I felt so connected to Jolene the way she just wanted to be loved and wanted cause we all want and hope for it .

Tim ugh I just wanted hurt him so badly the rage I felt for Jo


I won't say too much cause it's a must read it's so healing to read books like this it just so freeing in a way

And her stalker hehe I love that stalker so much the essence of there words,actions and so much more

And those spicy scenes holy moly but I absolutely loved the scenes with a certain stalker loved it

[The_neurospicy_bookworm · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book. I was a bit unsure what I was going to think initially but at the same time I was still hooked. The author has you creating a strong empathetic link with the FMC pretty much straight away by going into her back story a bit. The author continues to go back and explore key moments in the FMC's life that creates a fuller picture of who the character is, what she has been through and why she is the way she is and you feel for her in so many different ways. She has been through it all of her life. If you are someone who has triggers, read the trigger list before reading this book. It is there for a reason.
The author broke me so many times during this book whether it be because of empathy or because she's relatable in certain aspects, I really connected with the character and it was actually quite cathartic to see her journey. The author represented MH issues so well, you can tell that it is a subject that's important to her.
There are some interesting developments that have you dropping your jaw and WTFing out loud as you either don't see them coming or they are so much more than you were expecting. The other characters that are involved are definitely intriguing and you are trying to figure them out as soon as you meet them. The author manages to make you feel protective of the FMC. Your guards go up with some of the characters and you are either going to know instantly who to trust, or, it is going to blindside you. There are quite a few plot twists and some will completely break your heart. The ending, has me wondering if it is a standalone novel or part of a series. It wraps up beautifully but also ends on a cliffhanger so I'm hoping this is part of a series as I need answers 🤣
Highly recommend reading this book if you love dark romance but be warned, this is not for the faint of heart. Looking forward to seeing what comes next from this author 💜

[Abbey Antwine · Rating 5 out of 5]

So few writers get all the things right. Beth Kay did. This book made me feel seen, made me feel understood. While I am not an obsessed unhinged stalker, I could see so much of myself in Jolene. Jolene is not a perfect person by any stretch of the imagination but it is her flaws that make her lovable to me. From being abused and groomed from an early age to trying to fill herself with lots of meaningless sex just to feel that connection to another person, just for that moment, it all makes her into who she needs to be to survive. While she is not quite smart in her decision making skills, she is quite intelligent in her revenge schemes. With Micah, you could totally see a future with him. Primal play and bdsm with impact play with proper aftercare? Seemed like a keeper. Mysterious stranger warning her of him from the start? What do we have here? Jealous ex, beautiful stalker, twin sister? When it came right down to it, Rae was indeed her sunshine, her siren, her salvation. Please go read this book, the author got so many aspects and little details correctly and had me so invested!

[Maddy · Rating 5 out of 5]

My Next Obsession is releasing on 01/14/2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
I can say I was definitely obsessed with this book. It does deal with heavy and triggering themes so please reads the triggers first!!Seeing the way that Jolene heals throughout this book was very inspiring. I also love the absolutely feral rage that she unleashes on those who harm her. I understand and related to her and her emotional state more than I should probably admit 😅
After she meets her sweet man Micah I was like yes let’s go. He’s gonna help her move past her trauma. Then she gets a stalker and my interest was even more piqued. Her stalker always appeared at the perfect time to help her heal even when Jolene herself didn’t realize it. I loved the stalker becoming the stalkee aspect. That was very unique and I was so happy that Jolene got her happily ever after. I do still have some questions though and they are going to be with me forever 😭

[Brit.Readz · Rating 5 out of 5]

It’s not always easy to give a 5 star review.

This book has all the elements you need in a book.. well as a dark romance girlie that is.

Trauma ✅
Anger ✅
Sadness ✅
Desperation ✅
Spice ✅✅✅
Stalker 😏✅
Romance ✅
So many more things… ✅

I loved this. I hated that our FMC had such a horrible past. People who didn’t care, or change. People you want to reach through the book and punch.. yea. But I also loved our stalker for looking out for our girl.. I know what sounds weird but it’s just too good y’all. This book was a great journey. You need to read this! Of course CHECK YOUR TW… highly recommend this to everyone!! I can’t wait to put it on my shelf!

[Lia's Haunted Library · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a good read: dark, messy, and soaked in female rage.

We follow a woman shaped by a traumatic childhood and surrounded by horrible men. She’s unhinged, but not in a cartoonish way, but in a very real, very broken way that makes sense once you understand her. There’s pain, yes, but also this deep yearning to be loved and desired, even if it comes out twisted.

And then she meets her. Someone just as messed up, maybe worse. The story spirals into this dance of obsession, destruction, and trauma bonding. It’s not a love story; it’s a needs story.

Overall? It worked.

[daddysbabygirlreads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wowza what a ride! 13% into this book I was already obsessed with Micah and looking forward to the hea. But ya’ll this story is so full of twists and turns, trauma and darkness it just sucks you in. It definitely ends on a cliffhanger so be warned! I can’t say too much without spoiling the entire book so go grab a copy!!

Convince me to read a book with 1 quote ….
“I knew someone was here a couple days ago, then there was someone who pushed me against the tree in the woods last night. Do…do I have a…stalker?”
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️

[Heather Kearns · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶
⚠️ Check Your TWs

Holy crap this book will get you over and over again. We meet the FMC right off in a very compromising situation. Then, as the book progresses, we see more glimpses into her life and how she has had to endure so much. But we also learn so much about her personality too. And call me crazy but I support her actions. I frequently thought about this part of the cell block tango, "they had it coming."

[Harley · Rating 5 out of 5]

OMFG

Ok Beth… BETH!!!! We have to talk because this book I DEVOURED!!

I went in thinking ______ was the obsession but nope found that out midway and the end all the light bulbs came on. Dare I say this is my favorite from you so far?

Highly recommend you all read this! Oh there’s triggers but those are just foreplay lol.

[Monique Eltz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beth Kay just sucked me right into this book, I didn’t want to put it down! It was pretty cool to read a book that takes place to a place I’m very familiar with! MUST CHECK TRIGGER WARNINGS! I laughed, cried and had all the rage reading this ! This book has all the spice but the story line was even better, and that says alot because I’m someone that’s will reads pure spice with little to no plot. Without any spoilers the main character Jolene really went through it all and still came out winning at life . Oh and the twist .. yes twist because as I read this book I thought I knew how it was going to play out. Let’s just say mid book prepare to be surprised and at the end your mouth will def be like 😮. Beth Kay I know this book will definitely touch those who need it most! Well done and I’m ready for more of your books!

[Emily · Rating 5 out of 5]

Damn. I love stalker books. And it's so refreshing when the the stalker is the FMC. Not only that but dual? How twisted, I love it. So much spice ot was intoxicating. The trauma was heartbreaking. I'm happy she got her HEA

[Jess_feelzinsane · Rating 5 out of 5]

Woah..want a wild read..pick up this book! People aren't always what they present themselves to be! And this book will have you on the edge of your seat!

[Dee]

Read this book if you like:
-SPICE
-Stalker Romance
-Unhinged FMC
-Kink
-Dark Romance
-Bi Rep

[valley_girl_36 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Please look for author notes and warnings before proceeding with this book as many readers will see red flags 🚩 all over the place with this. All mental health matters.

This book is powerful and healing ❤️‍🩹. Written within truths and emotions. I personally resonate in this story not to the depths this book goes to but trauma and how a person finds their own paths to cope and survive.
This book will give you ALL the feels it’s DARK, sad and redeeming. The writing here is so real, raw and revealing. I would love to just sit with Jolene and say I understand, thank you and you are not alone.

I wish I was a writer I cannot fully express the emotions in this book or how it triggered inner reflections within myself.
Please read the blurb and the info this is such a GOOD book

[Marci Simmons · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wow Beth Kay wrote a wonderful book in My Next Obsession! This was a roller coaster ride through a lifetime of neglect and trauma of every kind you could ever imagine. It’s so easy to connect to Jolene and understand where she’s coming from and Rae…wow! We’ve all been at a point in our lives where we just wanna be loved and understood. To say this book is unhinged is putting it mildly, check your triggers before reading. It was so good. Although be prepared for characters that you just want to kill like they’re right there in front of you!! It was so good! I highly suggest you read!

I received an advanced review copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Tara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beth Kay's "My Next Obsession" is a raw and gripping exploration of trauma, resilience, and the desperate yearning for love and connection. We meet Jolene, a woman whose life has been marred by unimaginable hardship, leaving her broken yet undeniably strong. Kay doesn't shy away from depicting the harsh realities of Jo's past, making her a character who is both deeply relatable and utterly compelling.

Despite the darkness that surrounds her, Jo's fierce spirit shines through. Her journey to reclaim control, even if through unconventional means, is both cathartic and empowering. As readers, we can't help but root for her to find the genuine, unconditional love she so desperately craves.

The novel takes a shocking turn as Jo becomes the object of obsession herself, stalked by someone intimately connected to her past abuser. This unexpected twist adds a layer of complexity and intrigue, forcing Jo to confront her demons and redefine her understanding of love and trust.

Kay masterfully weaves a tapestry of intricate relationships and shocking plot twists that keep you guessing until the very end. The emotional intensity of the story is palpable, leaving you breathless and craving more.
"My Next Obsession" is a powerful testament to the resilience of the human spirit. It's a story that will stay with you long after you turn the final page, reminding you that even in the darkest of times, hope and healing are possible.

[Cojay Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received this as an advanced reader copy however all the opinions within this review are my own genuine thoughts about the story and author.

“For anyone who’s ever been taken advantage of or felt the sting of rejection. You may not have been able to slash their toes or burn down their house but now you can experience vicarious retribution through the actions of Jolene Annalise Moore. Reading can be a form of catharsis.”

This story was such a wild ride but it was incredibly validating to so many emotions that many of us have experienced at some point at or another. I think the author poured everything into writing this book and it truly showed in how our FMC was stripped raw to the bone in every chapter. Even the experience of completely shutting down emotionally was conveyed in a way that anyone who has ever lived through it could relate entirely. Even for a fairly quick read, we get Jolene’s entire story and can ally with her rage and retribution. Although the ending felt a little abrupt, I think the story and characters received the closure they deserved. I can’t even imagine how healing this must have been for Beth and I hope she continues to dive deeper. She’s an astounding storyteller and this was an intoxicating read that I binged in a single sitting. 4⭐️3.5🌶️

[Blondies Book Binge · Rating 5 out of 5]

I saw “feminine rage” as a trope for this book and that alone piqued my dark romance loving heart. Then I saw the trigger list and was like *add to cart*. This book is not for the faint of heart or those dipping their toes into dark romance. It’s a very triggering, high spice, very dark grey or light black book.
❤️‍🔥 mental health/BPD
❤️‍🔥 bisexuality
❤️‍🔥 unaliving on page
❤️‍🔥 ALL types of abu$e- substance, physical, emotional, sexual, child
❤️‍🔥 primal play
❤️‍🔥 stalking (lots of it, more than one character)
❤️‍🔥 masked main character
❤️‍🔥 BDSM
❤️‍🔥 toys
❤️‍🔥 auto-erotic asphyxiation
❤️‍🔥 self harm
❤️‍🔥 trauma bonding

Oh Jo, our relatable FMC. She’s had such a traumatic and troubling past, which slams you in the face at the very beginning and you learn more and more about her throughout the book. She’s so relatable. She’s so broken, yet so strong… and completely unhinged. Your heart breaks for her and I felt she was so deserving of a real, unconditional loving connection with someone that isn’t using or manipulating her.
There are so many character dynamics in this book and so many plot twists, I don’t really want to describe anyone else because I don’t want to spoil anything.
The whole premise of this book was incredible, and the link between Jo and her stalker had me gasping, I did not see that coming! It really brought a lot of things full circle and made the arc of their relationship so much more emotional for me.
This book is spiiiiiiicy, like four pepper spice. There’s FM, FF, cuckolding, it’s well written non-repetitive spice.

“If I wasn’t so blind to red flags, I’d say this conversation was one. But considering I run towards red flags, I’m always left questioning myself.”

“Goldie, none of these peasants are worthy of your body gracing their bedsheets. That man at the bar, staring at us incredulously? He may have a nice physique, but you can tell he is a selfish lover and would never worship at your feet the way a goddess like you deserves. I would drop to my knees right here, right now, and go to church between your legs if it wouldn’t get us both kicked out and banned. Even then, it would probably still be worth it.”

“You call me your siren, but instead of leading you to your ultimate demise, I will help you find the death of your past self. I will lead you to the retribution and salvation of taking back your power. I see you. I see who you can be.”

This book has a HEA and a conclusive ending. The epilogue does give us one final twist that could easily leave the door open for book 2, and I’m here for it. I could read many more books by this author. I loved the emotions she evoked in me, the rawness and real feelings she portrayed in the characters, the plot, and the spice. Trauma is real and life is messy and I loved how Beth Kay shoved us straight into the deep end and made us feel so many emotions in
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️

[Vikki · Rating 5 out of 5]

First and foremost, I want to stress that readers must take the time to read the trigger warnings for this book. It delves into heavy themes like SA and obsession, which might be challenging for some. However, these elements are handled with a depth and nuance that makes the story unforgettable.

Intense, raw, and unflinchingly honest. Jo’s complexity as a character—her compulsions, her need for connection, and her desperation to make sense of her fractured relationships—makes her both flawed and deeply human.

Jo’s dark experience as a child is depicted with a delicate balance—neither overly explicit nor sugarcoated. The way Jo doesn’t fully understand what happened to her at such a young age, yet can identify the echoes of her trauma as she grows older, struck a chord with me. It’s rare to see a depiction that resonates so profoundly, capturing the quieter yet no less devastating side of abuse. Many books portray these moments as raw and violent, which is certainly a reality for many survivors. But Jo’s longing for love, touch, and affection as a response to her trauma hits differently. It feels deeply personal, especially for those who have walked a similar path.

The theme of obsession is intricately woven into the narrative, offering an incredible exploration of why and how it manifests. Jo’s need for control, her compulsions, and her all-consuming desire for affection and connection are presented in a way that is both unsettling and relatable. Her perspective offers an intimate view into the complex interplay of trauma and obsession, and Beth Kay handles it masterfully.

The dynamic between Jo, Micah, and her stalker creates a riveting and suspenseful narrative. Micah is captivating, but there’s always an edge of uncertainty about him. The stalker’s manipulation adds a layer of psychological tension that keeps you guessing. The twists and turns as Jo’s obsession shifts and evolves are gripping, leaving you wondering just how far she—and those around her—will go.

I loved this book. It’s dark, thought-provoking, and emotionally charged in all the best ways. Beth Kay has created a story that forces readers to confront uncomfortable truths, but she does so with grace and care. For those who can handle the themes, My Next Obsession is an absolute must-read.

[Jomyps · Rating 5 out of 5]

"My Next Obsession" by Beth Kay is a captivating read that digs deep into the messy, exhilarating world of love, desire, and obsession. The story centers around a protagonist who finds herself caught in a whirlwind of emotions, navigating the fine line between infatuation and genuine connection.

Kay's writing is sharp and engaging, drawing you in from the very first page. The characters are vividly portrayed, each with their own quirks and complexities that make them feel real and relatable. The chemistry between the leads is palpable, filled with tension and an undeniable pull that keeps you turning the pages. You can feel the intensity of their connection, making you root for them even as they grapple with their own insecurities and fears.

What I loved most about this book is how it explores the darker side of obsession. Kay doesn’t shy away from showcasing the sometimes tumultuous nature of desire, highlighting the lengths people will go to for love and the potential consequences of losing oneself in another person. The emotional depth adds a layer of richness to the story, making it more than just a simple romance.

The pacing is spot-on, with twists and turns that keep you guessing and invested in the outcome. Kay expertly balances moments of lightheartedness with deeper, more serious themes, creating a well-rounded narrative that feels both entertaining and thought-provoking.

Overall, "My Next Obsession" is a thrilling exploration of love and longing that will keep you hooked from start to finish. If you’re a fan of romances that delve into the complexities of relationships and the fine line between love and obsession, this book is definitely one to add to your reading list!

Stars:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice:🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️

[Meghan Porter · Rating 4 out of 5]

Title: My Next Obsession

Author: Beth Kay

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️

Length: 206 pages

Genre: Dark Romance

Tropes: Touch her and 💀, obsessive/unhinged FMC, BDSM, Shmex toys, Stalking, Masks, mental health rep, bisexual rep.

Triggers: There are quite a few triggers… honestly too much to list. Check the link at the beginning of the book for a full list of them. Your mental health is important!!

My thoughts:

My Next Obsession is a wild ride to be sure that I thoroughly enjoyed going on. Some chapters were really hard to read and did make me uncomfortable, but honestly the way each of those chapters ended had me going “Yes Jolene” every single time!

Jolene is a woman who had a terrible childhood and upbringing where so many absolutely horrible things happened to her. Where most people would have buckled, Jolene came out the other end, albeit not completely unscathed. She has obsessive tendencies that bleed into every aspect of her life, including her love life. She meets Micah, who she thinks is a great guy! She also has a masked stalker who is always there for her in the background. After the childhood that she has had, Jolene really is the embodiment of female rage wrapped in the skin of a person who so desperately wants to be loved.

Please go into My Next Obsession with an open mind but also be mindful of the trigger warnings! This is not a book for the faint of heart, but I am here to tell you that it really is a good and important read!

[Stacey L Sawyer · Rating 5 out of 5]

My Next Obsession is a wild ride. Jolene had to grow up way too fast. Her past is very traumatic even with a mother that doesn't care. As she grew up, she became a fiercely independent woman that was also a bit obsessive. She meets Micah and believes he may be someone she can have in her life long term.There are some interesting developments that have you dropping your jaw and WTFing out loud as you either don't see them coming or they are so much more than you were expecting. The other characters that are involved are definitely intriguing and you are trying to figure them out as soon as you meet them. The author manages to make you feel protective of the FMC. After she meets her sweet man Micah I was like yes let’s go. He’s gonna help her move past her trauma. Then she gets a stalker and my interest was even more piqued. Her stalker always appeared at the perfect time to help her heal even when Jolene herself didn’t realize it. I loved the stalker becoming the stalkee aspect. That was very unique and I was so happy that Jolene got her happily ever after. This book is wild! Nothing but smut. It’s a book of trauma, death, stalking and of course sex. You definitely need to read the TW if you are sensitive to certain subjects.