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Kalix
The girl who’s anxious, studious, and terrified of the dark gets herself a shadow… What could go wrong?
College was supposed to be a fresh start for Lainey, at least until she began to sense that she was being watched. It felt like someone was lurking in the shadows. Too close. Too silent. No matter where she looked, though, she just couldn’t find where the feeling was coming from.
When a guy she’s never seen before, someone named Kalix, comes into her Chemistry class, everything changes.
He’s tattooed, pierced, and not like anything she's ever seen herself being attracted to. As a matter of fact, he’s exactly what she tried to steer clear trouble.
He’s overly intense, obsessive, and somehow always there when she least expects it.
She should be scared of him, but for some reason, she’s not.
When someone else’s obsession becomes too much, the one she tries to steer clear of is the one person she turns to for help.
The girl who’s always feared the dark is now beginning to crave what’s in it.
College was supposed to be a fresh start for Lainey, at least until she began to sense that she was being watched. It felt like someone was lurking in the shadows. Too close. Too silent. No matter where she looked, though, she just couldn’t find where the feeling was coming from.
When a guy she’s never seen before, someone named Kalix, comes into her Chemistry class, everything changes.
He’s tattooed, pierced, and not like anything she's ever seen herself being attracted to. As a matter of fact, he’s exactly what she tried to steer clear trouble.
He’s overly intense, obsessive, and somehow always there when she least expects it.
She should be scared of him, but for some reason, she’s not.
When someone else’s obsession becomes too much, the one she tries to steer clear of is the one person she turns to for help.
The girl who’s always feared the dark is now beginning to crave what’s in it.
252 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 23, 2025
17 people are currently reading
125 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 89 reviews
September 18, 2025
What a fun read! I absolutely loved how Kalix looked at Lainey and thought “yup, that one’s mine”. This is the perfect book for people who don’t need a reason for the dark and possessive MMC to start stalking their newest obsession. It’s fun to see how quick Lainey just gives up on trying to fight her curiosity about this guy, he’s too charming for her to resist. Probably because he’s quite romantic, to be a psycho stalker.
“She’s so damn beautiful. I wonder if she knows how much of an effect she has on everyone around her. That perfect little ray of sunshine that peaks through on the cloudiest of days.”
I was hoping for a bit more back story to understand Kalix. Why is he so bad? What makes him bad? It felt quite random to me that he could do the things he did, with his story he just seemed like a troubled bad boy.
I still absolutely loved this book, and had so much fun reading it. His tattoo inspirations were hilarious and the spicy scenes were hot!
Thank you so much for the ARC Bethanie Loren & Billie Leigh!
3.5 🌟
“She’s so damn beautiful. I wonder if she knows how much of an effect she has on everyone around her. That perfect little ray of sunshine that peaks through on the cloudiest of days.”
I was hoping for a bit more back story to understand Kalix. Why is he so bad? What makes him bad? It felt quite random to me that he could do the things he did, with his story he just seemed like a troubled bad boy.
I still absolutely loved this book, and had so much fun reading it. His tattoo inspirations were hilarious and the spicy scenes were hot!
Thank you so much for the ARC Bethanie Loren & Billie Leigh!
3.5 🌟
October 4, 2025
Lainey is a sweet, innocent young rabbit who is scared of the dark but watches murder mystery documentaries. She has high anxiety and takes medication to help ease her worries whenever she starts to think something is lurking behind the shadows. Little does she know, she is being watched and followed everywhere she goes.
Kalix is the epitome of the ultimate bad boy. Tattooed all over, piercings and rides a motorcycle. He is obsessed with Lainey and can't seem to stay away from her. He hides behind the shadows and sneaks into her home when she is asleep and watches her. This may come across as psychotic but something about him has our interests piqued.
Their paths finally cross when she is about to be assaulted by her classmate. Kalix comes out of the shadows and protects Lainey. She soon figures out that he is the one that his been following her but she somehow feels safe.
Normally, having a stalker can make anyone feel uneasy, but something about Kalix and his confession has Lainey curious. She seems to want to know more about this psychopath and he can't wait to share everything. If you are a fan of YOU then I would definitely give this book a read because guaranteed, you will be rooting for Kalix to win over Lainey.
Kalix is the epitome of the ultimate bad boy. Tattooed all over, piercings and rides a motorcycle. He is obsessed with Lainey and can't seem to stay away from her. He hides behind the shadows and sneaks into her home when she is asleep and watches her. This may come across as psychotic but something about him has our interests piqued.
Their paths finally cross when she is about to be assaulted by her classmate. Kalix comes out of the shadows and protects Lainey. She soon figures out that he is the one that his been following her but she somehow feels safe.
Normally, having a stalker can make anyone feel uneasy, but something about Kalix and his confession has Lainey curious. She seems to want to know more about this psychopath and he can't wait to share everything. If you are a fan of YOU then I would definitely give this book a read because guaranteed, you will be rooting for Kalix to win over Lainey.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 21, 2025
First off, I don't condone stalking and its only hot when ficitonal men do it! Second, check your triggers before reading! Now that that's outta the way, this short but fast paced story follows Lainey and Kalix..who admittedly reminds me of another unhinged stalker *Zade* in the best way! Kalix's obsessiveness over Lainey was sweet, in his psychotic way. And sweet Lainey, felt her shadow before knowing he burst into her life in all his crazy glory. There were moments reading this where I was like "wtf is he thinking?!" then remembered..duh unhinged psycho and it all clicked 😂. If you liked Zade, you'll love Kalix! Favorite moment highlights: Kalix stealing Lainey's fave lip gloss and adding himself to it to mark her every time she uses it, and his new tatt after she got her first 😅🤣 Thank you @bethanielorenauthor, @authorbillieleigh, and @naughtynookpr for the privilage to be part of your ARC team!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 21, 2025
Kalix' is a masterful descent into dark academia, seamlessly blending palpable tension with unexpected allure. The core of the story lies in the brilliantly crafted dynamic between the anxious, studious Lainey and the intensely mysterious Kalix, a relationship so electrically charged and compelling that it anchors the entire narrative. This is a must-read for anyone who appreciates morally complex characters, the thrill of the unknown, and powerful, atmospheric storytelling.
September 20, 2025
Ok so I really appreciate a book that jumps straight into the action but this felt like going in dry with no foreplay.
I love a stalker romance but homegirl has ZERO self preservation skills, she fell right into him the second he made himself known.
The spice was good and the plot was barely there. And I’m NOT really complaining because it’s a novella but I wish the FMC put a little more thought into falling on the cock of her stalker, especially as a virgin.
I would have read this as a regular length book for sure.
I love a stalker romance but homegirl has ZERO self preservation skills, she fell right into him the second he made himself known.
The spice was good and the plot was barely there. And I’m NOT really complaining because it’s a novella but I wish the FMC put a little more thought into falling on the cock of her stalker, especially as a virgin.
I would have read this as a regular length book for sure.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 21, 2025
BETA READ
October 27, 2025
This was an insta-love stalker story that was quick paced and had dual POVs from both the MMC and FMC.
I loved the blurb but I didn't feel any real emotional connection between the main characters. It was a little too rushed for me and didn't really show the unhinged MMC's obsession really grow past that initial physical attraction.
Kalix sees Lainey and is instantly obsessed over her without knowing - literally- anything about her. He proceeds to stalk her, breaking into her apartment, stealing little bits and bobs, only to return them so he can enjoy her reaction to knowing he's been invading her personal space. Lainey is a bit of a homebody, only really focusing on school and studying. She's initially scared of her stalker but when she gets saved by him, suddenly she feels safe and not afraid.
These are all tried and true plot twists used in countless books but it's usually followed by some buildup of romance and usually shows the characters bonding over common likes and dislikes, family and/or life experiences. Kalix and Lainey's story is so quick and short that we never get that chance so it made their insta-love feel a little too superficial.
There are hints that Reed and Isaac (Kalix' only friends) are also getting their own story but not sure I'll follow up this series if these snapshot stories are going to be the norm.
SAFETY INFO:
I loved the blurb but I didn't feel any real emotional connection between the main characters. It was a little too rushed for me and didn't really show the unhinged MMC's obsession really grow past that initial physical attraction.
Kalix sees Lainey and is instantly obsessed over her without knowing - literally- anything about her. He proceeds to stalk her, breaking into her apartment, stealing little bits and bobs, only to return them so he can enjoy her reaction to knowing he's been invading her personal space. Lainey is a bit of a homebody, only really focusing on school and studying. She's initially scared of her stalker but when she gets saved by him, suddenly she feels safe and not afraid.
These are all tried and true plot twists used in countless books but it's usually followed by some buildup of romance and usually shows the characters bonding over common likes and dislikes, family and/or life experiences. Kalix and Lainey's story is so quick and short that we never get that chance so it made their insta-love feel a little too superficial.
There are hints that Reed and Isaac (Kalix' only friends) are also getting their own story but not sure I'll follow up this series if these snapshot stories are going to be the norm.
SAFETY INFO:
September 23, 2025
✨ARC Review✨.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Blurb:
College was supposed to be a fresh start for Lainey, at least until she began to sense that she was being watched. It felt like someone was lurking in the shadows. Too close. Too silent. No matter where she looked, though, she just couldn’t find where the feeling was coming from.
When a guy she’s never seen before, someone named Kalix, comes into her Chemistry class, everything changes.
He’s tattooed, pierced, and not like anything she's ever seen herself being attracted to. As a matter of fact, he’s exactly what she tried to steer clear of: trouble.
He’s overly intense, obsessive, and somehow always there when she least expects it.
She should be scared of him, but for some reason, she’s not.
When someone else’s obsession becomes too much, the one she tries to steer clear of is the one person she turns to for help.
The girl who’s always feared the dark is now beginning to crave what’s in it.
Fast pace. Stalker. Touch her and die (literally). What more could you ask for! Bethanie and Billie delivered a great quick read with this book and gave us unhinged in the form of Kalix.
Just from one glance of the back of her head Kalix is OBSESSED with Lainey. From that moment he declares her his and there is nothing he won't do to show her she is his and nothing he won't do for her. Except share her. The guy falls harder a two ton boulder from 10,000 feet.
And those tattoo choices of his. Well, they are something. It may take Lainey a minute to realize that she is Kalix's but once she does, she grabs on to both handlebars and enjoys the ride. I enjoyed reading this duo. I’m always a sucker for a stalker and these characters story joined my top fav!
Our last look at Kalix’s friends left us with the potential for their own books and I hope we get them.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Blurb:
College was supposed to be a fresh start for Lainey, at least until she began to sense that she was being watched. It felt like someone was lurking in the shadows. Too close. Too silent. No matter where she looked, though, she just couldn’t find where the feeling was coming from.
When a guy she’s never seen before, someone named Kalix, comes into her Chemistry class, everything changes.
He’s tattooed, pierced, and not like anything she's ever seen herself being attracted to. As a matter of fact, he’s exactly what she tried to steer clear of: trouble.
He’s overly intense, obsessive, and somehow always there when she least expects it.
She should be scared of him, but for some reason, she’s not.
When someone else’s obsession becomes too much, the one she tries to steer clear of is the one person she turns to for help.
The girl who’s always feared the dark is now beginning to crave what’s in it.
Fast pace. Stalker. Touch her and die (literally). What more could you ask for! Bethanie and Billie delivered a great quick read with this book and gave us unhinged in the form of Kalix.
Just from one glance of the back of her head Kalix is OBSESSED with Lainey. From that moment he declares her his and there is nothing he won't do to show her she is his and nothing he won't do for her. Except share her. The guy falls harder a two ton boulder from 10,000 feet.
And those tattoo choices of his. Well, they are something. It may take Lainey a minute to realize that she is Kalix's but once she does, she grabs on to both handlebars and enjoys the ride. I enjoyed reading this duo. I’m always a sucker for a stalker and these characters story joined my top fav!
Our last look at Kalix’s friends left us with the potential for their own books and I hope we get them.
October 22, 2025
This book has a lot of things I like: dark academia, stalker, biker, opposites attract, morally black MMC, and a few other tropes. While I haven't read anything by Billie Leigh before, I have read a couple of books by Bethanie Loren, so I was primed to like this.
Lainey is the good girl who keeps to herself, she wants to be successful in life and works hard in college to achieve her goals. Despite flying under the radar, she feels like she's being watched all the time, something (or is it someone lurking right behind her). Surprise, surprise, Kalix is her own morally black stalker who watches her from the dark. He's possessive and will do anything to ensure her safety as well as his obsession. Unhinged? Yes. Charms the pants off of Lainey? Also, yes! But is Kalix her only stalker?
This is a novella, so it's short in length with a lot packed into it. Given the characters, it feels that a full-length book would have been more appropriate. They want to tell you all about themselves and give themselves more depth, but due to page constraints, they're stunted. Moreover, I couldn't tell you why or pinpoint to one thing exactly, but there was a spark missing for me. I read it and it was okay, that type of feeling.
I'm hoping that maybe one day Loren and Leigh will expand this into full-length!
🖤 Stalker Biker
🖤 Obsessive MMC
🖤 Virgin FMC
🖤 Opposites Attract
🖤 Mental Health Rep
🖤 Touch Her and Die
Thank you to the authors and Naughty Nook PR for the gifted copy!
Lainey is the good girl who keeps to herself, she wants to be successful in life and works hard in college to achieve her goals. Despite flying under the radar, she feels like she's being watched all the time, something (or is it someone lurking right behind her). Surprise, surprise, Kalix is her own morally black stalker who watches her from the dark. He's possessive and will do anything to ensure her safety as well as his obsession. Unhinged? Yes. Charms the pants off of Lainey? Also, yes! But is Kalix her only stalker?
This is a novella, so it's short in length with a lot packed into it. Given the characters, it feels that a full-length book would have been more appropriate. They want to tell you all about themselves and give themselves more depth, but due to page constraints, they're stunted. Moreover, I couldn't tell you why or pinpoint to one thing exactly, but there was a spark missing for me. I read it and it was okay, that type of feeling.
I'm hoping that maybe one day Loren and Leigh will expand this into full-length!
🖤 Stalker Biker
🖤 Obsessive MMC
🖤 Virgin FMC
🖤 Opposites Attract
🖤 Mental Health Rep
🖤 Touch Her and Die
Thank you to the authors and Naughty Nook PR for the gifted copy!
February 21, 2026
One look in a college classroom was all it took for Kalix to choose his target—and he hasn’t looked away since. 🏍️👁️
📖 Kalix by Bethanie Loren & Billie Leigh
⭐️ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️ 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Dark Romance
Tropes
🏍️ Stalker biker
⛓️ Unhinged MMC
🖤 Obsessive MMC
🎓 College
🎨 Tattooed MMC
⚖️ Opposites attract
💀 Touch her and 💀
Kalix saw Lainey in class one day and became instantly, completely obsessed. While Lainey felt like something was off from the beginning, she tried to brush it off as paranoia—until a man harassed her and Kalix stepped out of the shadows to her rescue. From that moment on, the line between predator and protector completely blurred.
I truly enjoyed this! I loved how self-aware both characters were throughout the story. Lainey’s reaction to the stalking was so interesting; she acknowledged the intensity of it but could still accept the sense of safety Kalix provided. She leaned into the relationship and never second-guessed how she felt, which made the dynamic so much more fun to read.
Kalix is super unhinged in the absolute best way. Honestly, who doesn't love a man who watches over you 24/7 and is willing to do literally anything to protect you? I certainly wouldn’t say no to him!
The highlight of the book for me was definitely the lipgloss scene. Damn, the sheer audacity and unhinged energy it took for him to put his 💦 in her lipgloss just to mark her... I loved it. My only complaint is that I wish we had even more of Kalix and Lainey together.
Thank you to the authors for this ride!
📖 Kalix by Bethanie Loren & Billie Leigh
⭐️ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️ 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Dark Romance
Tropes
🏍️ Stalker biker
⛓️ Unhinged MMC
🖤 Obsessive MMC
🎓 College
🎨 Tattooed MMC
⚖️ Opposites attract
💀 Touch her and 💀
Kalix saw Lainey in class one day and became instantly, completely obsessed. While Lainey felt like something was off from the beginning, she tried to brush it off as paranoia—until a man harassed her and Kalix stepped out of the shadows to her rescue. From that moment on, the line between predator and protector completely blurred.
I truly enjoyed this! I loved how self-aware both characters were throughout the story. Lainey’s reaction to the stalking was so interesting; she acknowledged the intensity of it but could still accept the sense of safety Kalix provided. She leaned into the relationship and never second-guessed how she felt, which made the dynamic so much more fun to read.
Kalix is super unhinged in the absolute best way. Honestly, who doesn't love a man who watches over you 24/7 and is willing to do literally anything to protect you? I certainly wouldn’t say no to him!
The highlight of the book for me was definitely the lipgloss scene. Damn, the sheer audacity and unhinged energy it took for him to put his 💦 in her lipgloss just to mark her... I loved it. My only complaint is that I wish we had even more of Kalix and Lainey together.
Thank you to the authors for this ride!
September 27, 2025
Kalix by Bethanie Loren & Billie Leigh is a dark academia stalker romance following Kalix and Lainey. 🚩There are dark themes that can be triggering so please check out the content warning before you dive in 🚩
Main Characters ✨
🏍️ Kalix, our morally black MMC, didn’t have an easy start in life but his adoptive parents worked hard to make sure he got the love and attention he needed to get through the trauma. Now in college, he never imagined he’d grow an obsession over the petite strawberry blonde girl in his new chem class.
☕️ Lainey, our introvert FMC, is focused on setting her life up for success. She doesn’t have many people in her life that she is close to so she mostly keeps to herself. Starting the new semester she could have never predicted that she was going to meet someone that’ll change her life completely.
My thoughts 💭
This is the first time I read anything from either authors so I didn’t know what to expect but I am not disappointed at all. This was such a quick and fun read, despite the plot twist that went dark which was to be expected, I enjoyed it! Kalix’s obsession had me giggling 🤭 he went from 0-100 so fast, she had no chance hahaha but she holds her own and I love that about her. She has goals and she refuses to let anyone get in her way of succeeding. If you enjoy a quick dark romance read with heavy stalking and some spice on the side, then you’ll eat this one up 🖤
✨ I received an advance review copy and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Main Characters ✨
🏍️ Kalix, our morally black MMC, didn’t have an easy start in life but his adoptive parents worked hard to make sure he got the love and attention he needed to get through the trauma. Now in college, he never imagined he’d grow an obsession over the petite strawberry blonde girl in his new chem class.
☕️ Lainey, our introvert FMC, is focused on setting her life up for success. She doesn’t have many people in her life that she is close to so she mostly keeps to herself. Starting the new semester she could have never predicted that she was going to meet someone that’ll change her life completely.
My thoughts 💭
This is the first time I read anything from either authors so I didn’t know what to expect but I am not disappointed at all. This was such a quick and fun read, despite the plot twist that went dark which was to be expected, I enjoyed it! Kalix’s obsession had me giggling 🤭 he went from 0-100 so fast, she had no chance hahaha but she holds her own and I love that about her. She has goals and she refuses to let anyone get in her way of succeeding. If you enjoy a quick dark romance read with heavy stalking and some spice on the side, then you’ll eat this one up 🖤
✨ I received an advance review copy and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 21, 2025
3,5 rounded up to 4 stars because Kalix was so freaking unhinged. His craziness was on another level.
I understand that this is a novella, fast-paced, and everything. But I wish there were more background context on Kalix's life. As simple as how he got his money and what his job was.
Kalix's obsession with Lainey and unhingedness just came out of nowhere, it was like there was a button pushed on the moment he saw Lainey. It was actually fun to read, at least for me for sure.
I actually thought Lainey was a soft and innocent girl at the beginning until the middle of the story. Either I didn't pay enough attention or my comprehension level messed up, but she suddenly changed into a mouthy FMC. I had no problem with it but I just felt kinda of off balance with her change of character.
The plot in this book was so light as I expected from a novella. I still enjoyed it though again because of the lack of background context, the problem-solving for the plot was kinda off for me. Didn't make sense but I forgave it since this is a fictional world.
I got the hint that the other side-characters might have their story coming up. Finger cross! Definitely will read if it happens.
Thank you to Bethanie Loren, Billie Leigh, and Naughty Nook PR for the ARC.
I understand that this is a novella, fast-paced, and everything. But I wish there were more background context on Kalix's life. As simple as how he got his money and what his job was.
Kalix's obsession with Lainey and unhingedness just came out of nowhere, it was like there was a button pushed on the moment he saw Lainey. It was actually fun to read, at least for me for sure.
I actually thought Lainey was a soft and innocent girl at the beginning until the middle of the story. Either I didn't pay enough attention or my comprehension level messed up, but she suddenly changed into a mouthy FMC. I had no problem with it but I just felt kinda of off balance with her change of character.
The plot in this book was so light as I expected from a novella. I still enjoyed it though again because of the lack of background context, the problem-solving for the plot was kinda off for me. Didn't make sense but I forgave it since this is a fictional world.
I got the hint that the other side-characters might have their story coming up. Finger cross! Definitely will read if it happens.
Thank you to Bethanie Loren, Billie Leigh, and Naughty Nook PR for the ARC.
September 21, 2025
Short, sweet, and couldn't wipe the grin off my face if I tried ☺️
This book checks all my boxes: dangerous man, dark vibes, and drama. Don't judge me. It's my kind of messy Sunday read 🙃
A biker, a tatted bad boy… and one very persistent stalker. Mm-hmm... 😏 what more could your girl possibly ask for? 🙈 Add in the obsession, the danger, and that sinful tension, and I've got the perfect recipe for trouble I can't resist 🔥
And she's the good girl. The one who does her homework, keeps her head down, plans every detail, rarely steps out of line… until he shows up and makes her want to break every single rule she ever made 🫣
And suddenly, she's standing on the edge, ready to throw herself into the darkness she swore she'd never touch 🖤
A 4.5☆ read. The lip gloss! oh my god!! How? Why? What even was that?! 😅 I can't get it out of my head, and honestly, I don't think I ever will 😂
⚠️ There's a stalker in this book and NOPE, not the creepy kind (probably 😏) but the dangerously addictive kind that'll have you questioning why you're smiling about it 👀🙈 Trigger warnings apply. Your mental health matters 🌼
This book checks all my boxes: dangerous man, dark vibes, and drama. Don't judge me. It's my kind of messy Sunday read 🙃
A biker, a tatted bad boy… and one very persistent stalker. Mm-hmm... 😏 what more could your girl possibly ask for? 🙈 Add in the obsession, the danger, and that sinful tension, and I've got the perfect recipe for trouble I can't resist 🔥
And she's the good girl. The one who does her homework, keeps her head down, plans every detail, rarely steps out of line… until he shows up and makes her want to break every single rule she ever made 🫣
And suddenly, she's standing on the edge, ready to throw herself into the darkness she swore she'd never touch 🖤
A 4.5☆ read. The lip gloss! oh my god!! How? Why? What even was that?! 😅 I can't get it out of my head, and honestly, I don't think I ever will 😂
⚠️ There's a stalker in this book and NOPE, not the creepy kind (probably 😏) but the dangerously addictive kind that'll have you questioning why you're smiling about it 👀🙈 Trigger warnings apply. Your mental health matters 🌼
September 23, 2025
This book hits the ground running—and never lets up.
From page one, this book is a rush. The pacing is relentless in the best way—fast, but never rushed. The story pulls you in with its intensity, and Kalix? He owns every scene he's in. He's obsessive, raw, and unapologetically himself. There’s something magnetic about how honest he is—he doesn’t sugarcoat his feelings or play games. No pretenses. He gives Lainey all of himself, and it’s like he’s saying: take it or take it. And honestly? It works.
Lainey is such an interesting contrast to him. She’s anxious, paranoid, and justifiably cautious—but under all of that, you feel this quiet hunger. She wants to break free from her fears, her boundaries… even from herself. Kalix represents everything she should avoid, and yet, she’s drawn to him in a way that feels both inevitable and dangerous. There’s something beautifully messy about the way she wrestles with that desire—how she learns to accept him, and in doing so, starts to accept herself too.
If you love dark, obsessive romance with characters that feel real in their chaos and vulnerability, this one will absolutely deliver.
From page one, this book is a rush. The pacing is relentless in the best way—fast, but never rushed. The story pulls you in with its intensity, and Kalix? He owns every scene he's in. He's obsessive, raw, and unapologetically himself. There’s something magnetic about how honest he is—he doesn’t sugarcoat his feelings or play games. No pretenses. He gives Lainey all of himself, and it’s like he’s saying: take it or take it. And honestly? It works.
Lainey is such an interesting contrast to him. She’s anxious, paranoid, and justifiably cautious—but under all of that, you feel this quiet hunger. She wants to break free from her fears, her boundaries… even from herself. Kalix represents everything she should avoid, and yet, she’s drawn to him in a way that feels both inevitable and dangerous. There’s something beautifully messy about the way she wrestles with that desire—how she learns to accept him, and in doing so, starts to accept herself too.
If you love dark, obsessive romance with characters that feel real in their chaos and vulnerability, this one will absolutely deliver.
February 21, 2026
Plot: 3/5 • Spice: 3/5 ————> Insta-love and super fast paced. Lainey is a studious nerd who cares more about her grades than her social life. Also a virgin. Kalix is a tattooed bad boy who grew up adopted and suffers from anger
management. Match made in heaven.
One look at her in their Chemistry class and Kalix knows she’s his. He stalks her quietly. Has his friends follow her when he can’t. Breaks into her apartment and brings her snacks and flowers. He finally shows his face after following her to a bar when she’s out with friends. The guy she’s with tries to take advantage of her and Kalix steps in. Like a knight in shining armor.
She should be scared of Kalix after he admits how much he’s obsessed with her and follows her. But instead she thinks it’s endearing. She accepts it.
Due to Kalix’s stalking ways when Lainey gets kidnapped he already can find her location. Another knight in shining amour moment.
There’s a lot packed into a short 200 something paged book. College setting • Bad boy/Good girl • Virgin FMC • touch her and die • stalking • OOT MMC • HEA • Standalone.
management. Match made in heaven.
One look at her in their Chemistry class and Kalix knows she’s his. He stalks her quietly. Has his friends follow her when he can’t. Breaks into her apartment and brings her snacks and flowers. He finally shows his face after following her to a bar when she’s out with friends. The guy she’s with tries to take advantage of her and Kalix steps in. Like a knight in shining armor.
She should be scared of Kalix after he admits how much he’s obsessed with her and follows her. But instead she thinks it’s endearing. She accepts it.
Due to Kalix’s stalking ways when Lainey gets kidnapped he already can find her location. Another knight in shining amour moment.
There’s a lot packed into a short 200 something paged book. College setting • Bad boy/Good girl • Virgin FMC • touch her and die • stalking • OOT MMC • HEA • Standalone.
October 2, 2025
Kalix is one of those books that grabs you by the collar from page one and doesn’t let go. What I loved most was that there wasn’t any drawn-out pretense or coy buildup when it came to Kalix and Lainey’s connection... he was all in from the start and Lainey, who clearly knows better, just couldn’t resist the pull. That dynamic felt refreshingly straightforward while still carrying so much tension.
The dark academia vibe is absolutely delicious, creating the perfect atmosphere for this kind of obsessive, dangerous romance. And Kalix himself? Completely unhinged, in the best way possible. (Unhinged in a book character is a win for me… unhinged in real life, not so much!)
I also appreciated how quick the read was. Sometimes I want a dark, intense story without committing to a 500-page marathon, and this hit the spot perfectly. Quick, fun, and entirely dangerous, exactly what I want when I’m looking for a fast-paced, edgy read.
If you’re into obsessive love interests, shadowy settings, and a story that doesn’t waste time, Kalix is a fantastic pick.
The dark academia vibe is absolutely delicious, creating the perfect atmosphere for this kind of obsessive, dangerous romance. And Kalix himself? Completely unhinged, in the best way possible. (Unhinged in a book character is a win for me… unhinged in real life, not so much!)
I also appreciated how quick the read was. Sometimes I want a dark, intense story without committing to a 500-page marathon, and this hit the spot perfectly. Quick, fun, and entirely dangerous, exactly what I want when I’m looking for a fast-paced, edgy read.
If you’re into obsessive love interests, shadowy settings, and a story that doesn’t waste time, Kalix is a fantastic pick.
September 28, 2025
Well wow! I’m a bit lost for words to be honest. I actually really enjoyed this story though I wasn’t sure what to expect. If you love a spicy book then I’d recommend this.
It’s quite a short book compared to a lot of others so I did get through it quite quick and also it’s full of action all the way through.
Kalix is your obsessed, possessive stalker covered in tattoos, your typical bad boy and what we all secretly dream about. Lainey is a virgin who has no experience, just wants to keep her head down however when she feels eyes on her 24/7 she knows something isn’t right. But in what way?
Spoilers she kind of has 2 stalkers but apparently you can actually have a good stalker and a bad stalker. It’s definitely not something I’d normally read but I loved it and if you know me you know I love a good bit of spice and let’s just say I don’t blame Lainey for converting and falling for her stalker because who wouldn’t?
It’s quite a short book compared to a lot of others so I did get through it quite quick and also it’s full of action all the way through.
Kalix is your obsessed, possessive stalker covered in tattoos, your typical bad boy and what we all secretly dream about. Lainey is a virgin who has no experience, just wants to keep her head down however when she feels eyes on her 24/7 she knows something isn’t right. But in what way?
Spoilers she kind of has 2 stalkers but apparently you can actually have a good stalker and a bad stalker. It’s definitely not something I’d normally read but I loved it and if you know me you know I love a good bit of spice and let’s just say I don’t blame Lainey for converting and falling for her stalker because who wouldn’t?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 26, 2025
Kalix grabbed me from the first chapter. Lainey is just trying to live her life, but then Kalix walks in — mysterious, intense, and so hard to ignore. The push-and-pull between them is electric, and the tension had me flipping pages like crazy.
What I really loved is that it’s not just about the romance. There’s suspense, emotional depth, and moments that make you feel all the feelings — fear, longing, and that guilty “yes, I’m rooting for them” kind of excitement. Lainey’s relatable and strong, and Kalix? He’s that swoony, protective, dark-but-soft kind of character you can’t help but love.
This book is dark, addictive, and swoony, a perfect mix if you love romance with a little danger. I easily devoured it in one sitting. This read is for those who enjoy dark, suspenseful romances with complex characters and intense chemistry. It’s a story that keeps you on the edge of your seat, eagerly turning pages to see what happens next.
What I really loved is that it’s not just about the romance. There’s suspense, emotional depth, and moments that make you feel all the feelings — fear, longing, and that guilty “yes, I’m rooting for them” kind of excitement. Lainey’s relatable and strong, and Kalix? He’s that swoony, protective, dark-but-soft kind of character you can’t help but love.
This book is dark, addictive, and swoony, a perfect mix if you love romance with a little danger. I easily devoured it in one sitting. This read is for those who enjoy dark, suspenseful romances with complex characters and intense chemistry. It’s a story that keeps you on the edge of your seat, eagerly turning pages to see what happens next.
September 18, 2025
ARC review: This was a cute book! Which feels weird to say about an obsessed stalker book, but... here we are. I honestly really enjoyed reading it, I was just expecting something a bit darker based off of the obsessive/troubled & tattooed/stalker tropes.
This is also a super quick read. Goodreads has it at 250 pages, but my Kindle has it clocked at 163 pages. That's plenty of length to get lots of stalker action in, and some really great banter, interaction, & a few spicy scenes between Kalix and Lainey - but a little more story would have absolutely been okay, too. I adored the 'little rabbit' nickname, and Kalix's tattoos for Lainey are swoon-worthy... especially in that extended epilogue. 👀
tropes: stalker, touch her & die, virgin MMC, obsessive jealous/possessive MMC, opposites attract, mental health rep, he falls first
This is also a super quick read. Goodreads has it at 250 pages, but my Kindle has it clocked at 163 pages. That's plenty of length to get lots of stalker action in, and some really great banter, interaction, & a few spicy scenes between Kalix and Lainey - but a little more story would have absolutely been okay, too. I adored the 'little rabbit' nickname, and Kalix's tattoos for Lainey are swoon-worthy... especially in that extended epilogue. 👀
tropes: stalker, touch her & die, virgin MMC, obsessive jealous/possessive MMC, opposites attract, mental health rep, he falls first
September 20, 2025
Kalix is as unhinged as they come. After one glance at Lainey, he decides she's his, and from there, his obsession grows. I love the way he spies on her, 24/7! I love the insta love he feels for her. Especially since she isn't some super model. She's nerdy, studious, and predictable. A lot like me. That's what made her easy and enjoyable to identify with. She also suffers from severe anxiety like so many of us, and I'm proud to read about a character that deals with this mess on the daily. Kalix's character is written by Bethanie Loren and Lainey's by Billie Leigh. I've never read a book written like this (that I know of), and it was off the charts! The spice was hella spicy and on fire. We all need our person to be a bit unhinged when it comes to loving us and Kalix is it for Lainey.
Thank you, @bethanielorenauthor @authorbillieleigh and @naughtynookpr for the ARC!
Thank you, @bethanielorenauthor @authorbillieleigh and @naughtynookpr for the ARC!
September 25, 2025
Im low key obsessed with this book, and want to buy it and every format. I would love to hear some of these moments in an audio format. Kalix is everything Lainey doesn't want in her life, she suffers from anxiety and does the proper steps to take care of such issue. Kalix is the epitome of stalker biker vibes. He came from a broken family and the way he expresses is emotions is through pain. You really feel for Kalix through this story for his inner trauma and then question everything he does towards Lainey until they have their moment of collide face to face. I will tell you this that I will never read the reference of “little rabbit” in a story the same again. There is a point with that reference that it made me laugh out loud. Definitely pick up this story, this is the first time I’ve read a story by either author and cant wait to read more.
September 17, 2025
The book's both strangely funny and oddly charming, which is great! I mean, over the years and books I've developped this weird sense of caring for men that only need ten seconds and a wiff of her to decide that's it, while hearing wedding bells to armonize it all.
THAT'S THE VIBE DEAREST. That's the book. You may call it obssesive, Kalix, darling tatted spooky MMC calls it infatuation (bonus points for getting impromptu random ass tattoes for her, because he may have lost count of howmany he has total, BUUUUT we´re counting the ones he got for her).
So yeah, the book is great, a bit too short, in my humblest opinion becuase... Well, give another 200 pages of the days in between and the weird shit he's doing just to make sure he's doing the polite kind of stalking, please.
THAT'S THE VIBE DEAREST. That's the book. You may call it obssesive, Kalix, darling tatted spooky MMC calls it infatuation (bonus points for getting impromptu random ass tattoes for her, because he may have lost count of howmany he has total, BUUUUT we´re counting the ones he got for her).
So yeah, the book is great, a bit too short, in my humblest opinion becuase... Well, give another 200 pages of the days in between and the weird shit he's doing just to make sure he's doing the polite kind of stalking, please.
September 19, 2025
Kalix is a dark $t@lker romance.
Kalix was an exceptional $t@lker. He might have been obsessive but he was caring and wanted to make sure Lainey was always cared for and protected. However, she does have some anxiety already and when she feels someone watching this kind of amps it up a bit. Now she does fight a little bit against his feelings towards her, but he is very persuasive and she can't help fall in love with him. But maybe she needed to feel more scared as there could be someone else lurking in the shadows about to make their move.
I enjoyed the flow of the story and felt it was fast paced and kept me interested. There were some great side characters who I hope we get a story for as I feel they would be an interesting read.
Kalix was an exceptional $t@lker. He might have been obsessive but he was caring and wanted to make sure Lainey was always cared for and protected. However, she does have some anxiety already and when she feels someone watching this kind of amps it up a bit. Now she does fight a little bit against his feelings towards her, but he is very persuasive and she can't help fall in love with him. But maybe she needed to feel more scared as there could be someone else lurking in the shadows about to make their move.
I enjoyed the flow of the story and felt it was fast paced and kept me interested. There were some great side characters who I hope we get a story for as I feel they would be an interesting read.
September 23, 2025
𝐊𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐱
𝒀𝒐𝒖'𝒓𝒆 𝒎𝒊𝒏𝒆, 𝒍𝒊𝒕𝒕𝒍𝒆 𝒓𝒂𝒃𝒃𝒊𝒕.
ᴡʜᴀᴛ ᴛᴏ ᴇxᴘᴇᴄᴛ:
sᴛᴀʟᴋᴇʀ ʙɪᴋᴇʀ ᴍᴍᴄ
ᴛᴏᴜᴄʜ ʜᴇʀ ᴀɴᴅ ☠️
ᴍᴇɴᴛᴀʟ ʜᴇᴀʟᴛʜ ʀᴇᴘ
ᴏʙsᴇssɪᴠᴇ ᴍᴍᴄ
ᴠɪʀɢɪɴ ғᴍᴄ
ᴏᴘᴘᴏsɪᴛᴇs ᴀᴛᴛʀᴀᴄᴛ
Kalix was such a fun read for me. I love a good stalker romance who also rides a bike. Lainey tried to keep her head down but always felt someone was watching her… and that was definitely the case. But this is a no spoiler review. I love MCs who are obsessive, possessive, and borderline psychotic and Kalix checked all those boxes. He was not playing the minute he had his eyes on her, that’s all he saw. I really enjoyed this book and I hope everyone gives it a chance and reads it because it did not disappoint. Also her poor lipgloss 😭💀 Thank you so much for this ARC.
“If you ever dare to look at her, talk to her, fucking breathe in her direction,- I will fucking end you. Do you understand? The only reason you’re breathing at this very moment is because she’s standing behind me, watching every little thing I do, and I don’t want our first night together to start with her witnessing a murder. Kapeesh?”
𝒀𝒐𝒖'𝒓𝒆 𝒎𝒊𝒏𝒆, 𝒍𝒊𝒕𝒕𝒍𝒆 𝒓𝒂𝒃𝒃𝒊𝒕.
ᴡʜᴀᴛ ᴛᴏ ᴇxᴘᴇᴄᴛ:
sᴛᴀʟᴋᴇʀ ʙɪᴋᴇʀ ᴍᴍᴄ
ᴛᴏᴜᴄʜ ʜᴇʀ ᴀɴᴅ ☠️
ᴍᴇɴᴛᴀʟ ʜᴇᴀʟᴛʜ ʀᴇᴘ
ᴏʙsᴇssɪᴠᴇ ᴍᴍᴄ
ᴠɪʀɢɪɴ ғᴍᴄ
ᴏᴘᴘᴏsɪᴛᴇs ᴀᴛᴛʀᴀᴄᴛ
Kalix was such a fun read for me. I love a good stalker romance who also rides a bike. Lainey tried to keep her head down but always felt someone was watching her… and that was definitely the case. But this is a no spoiler review. I love MCs who are obsessive, possessive, and borderline psychotic and Kalix checked all those boxes. He was not playing the minute he had his eyes on her, that’s all he saw. I really enjoyed this book and I hope everyone gives it a chance and reads it because it did not disappoint. Also her poor lipgloss 😭💀 Thank you so much for this ARC.
“If you ever dare to look at her, talk to her, fucking breathe in her direction,- I will fucking end you. Do you understand? The only reason you’re breathing at this very moment is because she’s standing behind me, watching every little thing I do, and I don’t want our first night together to start with her witnessing a murder. Kapeesh?”
September 23, 2025
I love being a reader that enjoys the romance genre and can appreciate all different levels of spice. I reveled in this unhinged, intoxicating infatuation based dark romance, feeling a wide range of emotions in a short time—being shocked and then weak at the knees, being outraged and blushing with the spice. Brash and bold Kalix has become obsessed with his opposite: studious and naive fellow college student Lainey. He would (and does!) anything for her and her safety. Short, st@lkery, spicy, and swoony, I devoured this riveting romance. (This is a a dark romance, please check trigger warnings to maintain your mental health.) 4.25 stars
Thanks to the authors and Naughty Noon PR for the eARC.
Thanks to the authors and Naughty Noon PR for the eARC.
October 9, 2025
Kalix! My man! I love him so much, he’s exactly the obsessed stalker mmc type that I like. I have such a huge thing for love at first sight, when the guy sees her, gets so obsessed that he immediately starts stalking her, and doing everything in his power to make her, his. This plot is peak stalker romance energy! I’m also such a simp when he feels sorry for if depressed or burnt out in life but then he sees her and it’s like he’s seeing colours for the first time. Also I’m a big fan of the getting tattoos for her. Their dynamic is so fun, he’s just pining after her and she’s confused and scared at first, but what started out as protection and attraction turns into love. This book was such a smutty, darkish fun novella. I give this a 4.5/5
October 19, 2025
Omg, I devoured this book in one sitting. Kalix may be obsessed with Lainey, but I am totally OBSESSED with him! This is definitely an opposites attract situation. Lainey is a innocent girl focused on her studies. Kalix a dark, brooding, tattooed biker is the exact opposite. The only thing he is focused on is her. Shew! I absolutely fell in love with Kalix, regardless of his unconventional ways of making Lainey his. I love how sweet he is to her in his own little way. The tattoos...totally swoon-worthy. Lainey needed him just as much as he needed her. No one touches what is his and gets away with it. I totally recommend giving this one a read if you like an unhinged MMC who would do anything for his girl!
October 25, 2025
📚✨ Kalix by Bethanie Loren & Billie Leigh
⭐️3.5/5 | 🌶️2/5
This was my first time reading a book where two authors each wrote a different POV, and honestly, it worked really well. The writing blended seamlessly, and both voices felt distinct but cohesive.
That said, I wish we got more backstory on Kalix himself....why is he like this? He came across more like a troubled bad boy than the dark, dangerous character the story hinted at. (sorry, the therapist in me needs to figure it out)
I love a good stalker romance, but homegirl, she practically ran into his arms the second he appeared. The spice delivered, but the plot was definitely more of a background element than a driving force.
☕ reading mood: dark, impulsive, and a little unhinged
⭐️3.5/5 | 🌶️2/5
This was my first time reading a book where two authors each wrote a different POV, and honestly, it worked really well. The writing blended seamlessly, and both voices felt distinct but cohesive.
That said, I wish we got more backstory on Kalix himself....why is he like this? He came across more like a troubled bad boy than the dark, dangerous character the story hinted at. (sorry, the therapist in me needs to figure it out)
I love a good stalker romance, but homegirl, she practically ran into his arms the second he appeared. The spice delivered, but the plot was definitely more of a background element than a driving force.
☕ reading mood: dark, impulsive, and a little unhinged
September 20, 2025
Kalix is such a fun, and crazy book. Kalix is completely unhinged, but in the best way.
🖤Stalker romance
🖤College romance
🖤He falls first
🖤Touch her and 💀
🖤Tattooed bad boy
When Kalix sees Lainey for the first time, he already knows that he is claiming her as his. She just doesn’t know it yet.
I am not usually a stalker romance girlie, but this was done so well. I loved how he didn’t give her a choice, but to fall in love with him, but at same time, it didn’t feel forced.
The scenes toward the end after the twist happens. Totally was not expecting that!
These two are spicy and hot and everything in between!
🖤Stalker romance
🖤College romance
🖤He falls first
🖤Touch her and 💀
🖤Tattooed bad boy
When Kalix sees Lainey for the first time, he already knows that he is claiming her as his. She just doesn’t know it yet.
I am not usually a stalker romance girlie, but this was done so well. I loved how he didn’t give her a choice, but to fall in love with him, but at same time, it didn’t feel forced.
The scenes toward the end after the twist happens. Totally was not expecting that!
These two are spicy and hot and everything in between!
September 29, 2025
Definitely check your triggers on this one! on that note I really enjoyed this book. It was fast paced and a super quick read. Kalix is just a yummy kind of psycho. Definitely got those tempting red flags. And who doesn't love a dirty talking, tatted, insta obsessed MMC. And Lainey, she's so blessedly innocent, studious, and so sweet. The good girl X bad boy definitely did it for me. He's protective and possessive of Lainey instantly, and god knows she needed it with the unsuspected danger just around the corner! And for a such fast paced, short book, the story doesn't seem really rushed. id definitely read this book if you're a fan of dark stalker college romances.
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