What do you think?
Rate this book
Midnight #2
Play with the Phantom
She has no idea she’s being hunted… or that the Phantom has already claimed her.
Ari
I thought I wanted stability—security—someone safe. For two years, I convinced myself Asher—my polished, predictable, perfect boyfriend—was enough.
Until the letters started. Cryptic. Obsessive. Meant only for me.
Then, I meet Asher’s twin. Maddox Cross. A name no one speaks. A convicted felon.
Asher warns me to stay away, but Maddox peels me open, piece by piece, like he already knows my secrets.
And when the truth comes out, I won’t have to choose between two brothers.
Because one of them will never let me go.
Maddox
Twenty years in a cage does things to a man. Gives him time. Time to think. Time to remember. Time to obsess.
Asher never deserved Ari. I knew it the second I found out about her.
She doesn’t belong in his perfect world. She belongs in mine—where good girls get ruined, and bad men don’t let go.
Now, I’m here. In her dreams. In her room. In the dark—touching, tasting, waiting.
She was never running. Just waiting for me to catch her.
And now that I have?
She’ll say my name in the dark, shattered and breathless—until she knows she was never meant to belong to anyone else.
Play with the Phantom is a full-length, dark standalone romance with an age gap and stalker themes. It has a HEA. Please check the triggers.
Ari
I thought I wanted stability—security—someone safe. For two years, I convinced myself Asher—my polished, predictable, perfect boyfriend—was enough.
Until the letters started. Cryptic. Obsessive. Meant only for me.
Then, I meet Asher’s twin. Maddox Cross. A name no one speaks. A convicted felon.
Asher warns me to stay away, but Maddox peels me open, piece by piece, like he already knows my secrets.
And when the truth comes out, I won’t have to choose between two brothers.
Because one of them will never let me go.
Maddox
Twenty years in a cage does things to a man. Gives him time. Time to think. Time to remember. Time to obsess.
Asher never deserved Ari. I knew it the second I found out about her.
She doesn’t belong in his perfect world. She belongs in mine—where good girls get ruined, and bad men don’t let go.
Now, I’m here. In her dreams. In her room. In the dark—touching, tasting, waiting.
She was never running. Just waiting for me to catch her.
And now that I have?
She’ll say my name in the dark, shattered and breathless—until she knows she was never meant to belong to anyone else.
Play with the Phantom is a full-length, dark standalone romance with an age gap and stalker themes. It has a HEA. Please check the triggers.
304 pages, Paperback
Published April 24, 2025
1464 people are currently reading
12569 people want to read
About the author
Amanda Richardson
58 books2,708 followersI write love stories with badass heroines and mysterious, brooding heroes. I survive on coffee and live in Yorkshire, England with my family.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 701 reviews
April 28, 2025
I loved Frankie and Dante’s book, and I was so excited to read Ari and Maddox's story, but after reading it, I’m sad to say this was just an okay read for me.
I honestly feel Asher didn’t need to be a part of the storyline. They had nothing in common, and what girl wastes two years of her life on a guy who can’t s3xually please her and puts her last all the time…. This would have also eliminated the cheating, which would have made the story better.
The book focused mainly on Asher and Ari, not enough on Maddox and Ari.
I wanted more st@lking; honestly,
Maddox is completely unhinged and obsessed with her. Give me that story, not some string-along plot with her wasting time on Asher 😐
I wish I knew Amanda's original plot for this story because I don’t think the vacation house was needed. They could have still had forced proximity without it.
When Asher told her they had to stay in separate rooms and he wouldn't be sneaking around so they could get it on during the whole vacation, I would have been like Toodles. You don't bang her at home, and she's getting none on vacation. I mean, come on… this girl better have a drawer full of toys because talk about s3xually frustrated!
This story had so much potential, but it fell flat for me.
I honestly feel Asher didn’t need to be a part of the storyline. They had nothing in common, and what girl wastes two years of her life on a guy who can’t s3xually please her and puts her last all the time…. This would have also eliminated the cheating, which would have made the story better.
The book focused mainly on Asher and Ari, not enough on Maddox and Ari.
I wanted more st@lking; honestly,
Maddox is completely unhinged and obsessed with her. Give me that story, not some string-along plot with her wasting time on Asher 😐
I wish I knew Amanda's original plot for this story because I don’t think the vacation house was needed. They could have still had forced proximity without it.
When Asher told her they had to stay in separate rooms and he wouldn't be sneaking around so they could get it on during the whole vacation, I would have been like Toodles. You don't bang her at home, and she's getting none on vacation. I mean, come on… this girl better have a drawer full of toys because talk about s3xually frustrated!
This story had so much potential, but it fell flat for me.
May 9, 2025
Maddox Cross has spent 20 years behind bars. He remains nonplussed until his mother sends a family photo, which includes his twin’s girlfriend, Ariana Clarke. She gives his life new purpose and when he’s released, all bets are off.
Certain that Asher was the man she should want – stable, secure, polished – Ari has spent two years convincing herself that he’s enough. Yet when the cryptic letters begin arriving and Maddox proves he sees her, really sees her, the fissures in her relationship can no longer be ignored.
So… If you’ve been around any length of time, you are likely well aware that I don’t touch cheating with a 10-foot pole. I hate it. Detest it. Loathe it. It's my no-no. But fuck me. I don't even know who I am. I was wrong. Or at least, I wasn’t always right. I’m not likely to become a fan of the cheating trope, but Play with the Phantom was well-written, Ari didn’t set out to cheat, and you could feel the internal war. Conversely, Maddox’s obsession was next-level and the stuff that us dark romance girlies live for. All in all, I was glued to my Kindle and won’t be so quick to judge a book by its main trope again. Who am I kidding? Yes, I will. But I’ll remind myself about PWTP and how I might miss out on a 5* read if I automatically pass on a book.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2
Burn: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Darkness: 🩶
Heat: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Range of Emotions: 🥺☺️🥵🫠😍
Ending: 💗 {HEA}
POV: 👫🏻 {Dual}
🗄️ Genre: Contemporary Romance
🗂️ Subgenre(s): Dark-ish, New Adult
✨ Tropes: Age Gap (16), Bad Boy x Good Girl, Billionaire, Forbidden, Forced Proximity, Insta-Obsession, Stalker
💫 Microtropes: Alphahole, Boy Obsessed, Jealous/Possessive, Manipulation
💋 Kinks: Cum Jammer, Domination, Finger Licking Good, Hidden Jizz, 🐱 Slapping
⚠️ Warning: This one-handed read may cause blushing, squirming, combusting panties, and/or self-care. It may also leave you questioning your morals.
🚩 Safety Squad: Cheating, Death of Child (Off-Page, Past), Dub Con, and other potentially triggering elements. If you have any hesitation, check the warnings before diving in. Otherwise, blind is best!!
📣 Type: Play with the Phantom is part of the Midnight series of interconnected standalones. While no other books need to be read in order to follow the story, reading prior books may enhance the experience.
🛑 Be Advised: My Goodreads shelves are … explicit in both senses. As such, they could be considered spoiler-y.
Certain that Asher was the man she should want – stable, secure, polished – Ari has spent two years convincing herself that he’s enough. Yet when the cryptic letters begin arriving and Maddox proves he sees her, really sees her, the fissures in her relationship can no longer be ignored.
So… If you’ve been around any length of time, you are likely well aware that I don’t touch cheating with a 10-foot pole. I hate it. Detest it. Loathe it. It's my no-no. But fuck me. I don't even know who I am. I was wrong. Or at least, I wasn’t always right. I’m not likely to become a fan of the cheating trope, but Play with the Phantom was well-written, Ari didn’t set out to cheat, and you could feel the internal war. Conversely, Maddox’s obsession was next-level and the stuff that us dark romance girlies live for. All in all, I was glued to my Kindle and won’t be so quick to judge a book by its main trope again. Who am I kidding? Yes, I will. But I’ll remind myself about PWTP and how I might miss out on a 5* read if I automatically pass on a book.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2
Burn: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Darkness: 🩶
Heat: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Range of Emotions: 🥺☺️🥵🫠😍
Ending: 💗 {HEA}
POV: 👫🏻 {Dual}
🗄️ Genre: Contemporary Romance
🗂️ Subgenre(s): Dark-ish, New Adult
✨ Tropes: Age Gap (16), Bad Boy x Good Girl, Billionaire, Forbidden, Forced Proximity, Insta-Obsession, Stalker
💫 Microtropes: Alphahole, Boy Obsessed, Jealous/Possessive, Manipulation
💋 Kinks: Cum Jammer, Domination, Finger Licking Good, Hidden Jizz, 🐱 Slapping
⚠️ Warning: This one-handed read may cause blushing, squirming, combusting panties, and/or self-care. It may also leave you questioning your morals.
🚩 Safety Squad: Cheating, Death of Child (Off-Page, Past), Dub Con, and other potentially triggering elements. If you have any hesitation, check the warnings before diving in. Otherwise, blind is best!!
📣 Type: Play with the Phantom is part of the Midnight series of interconnected standalones. While no other books need to be read in order to follow the story, reading prior books may enhance the experience.
🛑 Be Advised: My Goodreads shelves are … explicit in both senses. As such, they could be considered spoiler-y.
May 4, 2025
Hey bro, maybe don’t bring up your dead wife like RIGHT before penetrating another woman?? Idk just a thought
Read
July 30, 2025dnf at 78% — honestly I should just finish it because I’m almost done but it is so bad.
The main female character is like I’m not a cheater I would never and then proceeds to do a bunch of things that are in fact cheating! The mmc needs a therapist.
Also I need to know what the author definition of cheating is because just because your boyfriend isn’t great, it is still cheating to mess with his brother while still together??
The main female character is like I’m not a cheater I would never and then proceeds to do a bunch of things that are in fact cheating! The mmc needs a therapist.
Also I need to know what the author definition of cheating is because just because your boyfriend isn’t great, it is still cheating to mess with his brother while still together??
May 16, 2025
Luigi mangioni if he was a freak
May 2, 2025
Play With The Phantom by Amanda Richardson
4/5⭐
3,5/5🌶️
This was my first book by this author, and I enjoyed it! It was the perfect pick-me-up after I read some heavier reads. This story is quick, spicy, and low on angst, which makes it a lot of fun. The plot is straightforward, but it still managed to keep me hooked! I related to Ari quite a bit as the oldest child. She carries a heavy load of responsibilities and always tries to be the “good girl” who follows the rules, but often leaves her feeling unfulfilled and overlooked. It's like she’s always placed last on the list of priorities.
Then there’s Maddox, who happens to be Ari’s boyfriend's twin. He’s an ex-felon and obsessed with her ever since he first laid eyes on her picture. After he is released from jail, he becomes determined to learn everything about her. He truly sees her and understands her needs, even when she’s not aware of them herself.
When they finally meet, the chemistry is electric! Ari tries to deny her feelings and push Maddox away, but he’s unwavering in his pursuit. He knows he wants her and will do whatever it takes to win her. I loved how determined he was to show her that she deserves someone who puts her first and would do anything to make her happy.
This book is a great choice if you're in the mood for something fast-paced, with delicious spice, and low on drama. It definitely has me curious about the author’s previous works, and I can’t wait to pick up the next book!
4/5⭐
3,5/5🌶️
This was my first book by this author, and I enjoyed it! It was the perfect pick-me-up after I read some heavier reads. This story is quick, spicy, and low on angst, which makes it a lot of fun. The plot is straightforward, but it still managed to keep me hooked! I related to Ari quite a bit as the oldest child. She carries a heavy load of responsibilities and always tries to be the “good girl” who follows the rules, but often leaves her feeling unfulfilled and overlooked. It's like she’s always placed last on the list of priorities.
Then there’s Maddox, who happens to be Ari’s boyfriend's twin. He’s an ex-felon and obsessed with her ever since he first laid eyes on her picture. After he is released from jail, he becomes determined to learn everything about her. He truly sees her and understands her needs, even when she’s not aware of them herself.
When they finally meet, the chemistry is electric! Ari tries to deny her feelings and push Maddox away, but he’s unwavering in his pursuit. He knows he wants her and will do whatever it takes to win her. I loved how determined he was to show her that she deserves someone who puts her first and would do anything to make her happy.
This book is a great choice if you're in the mood for something fast-paced, with delicious spice, and low on drama. It definitely has me curious about the author’s previous works, and I can’t wait to pick up the next book!
May 11, 2025
Tiktok got meee
May 6, 2025
if you want messy boyfriend’s twin brother, ex-convict, cheating trope (not between love interests), self worth, an fmc who knows what she wants, an mmc that doesn’t give a single fuck about anyone but her, stalker, dub con, rough sex, somno, duo pov, and book two in standalone series … IMMEDIATELY GET THIS ONTO YOUR TBR 💜
after 20 years in prison, maddox is finally out and he’s going straight away to take what he wants. and that’s his twin brother’s girlfriend of two years 🤭 maddox has been obsessing over ari and everything she does the moment his mom sent him a photo of ari. he didn’t know he could have these feelings again after everything that happened which landed him in prison. but he’s not stopping the urge to leave love letters and stalking his new obsession 🥰 ari was always taught to be useful and to settle down for the sake of her family’s reputation. she wanted more but she couldn’t ask for it. in her mind she already left the relationship between her and asher. she realized she never felt that spark and passion ever throughout their years together. whenever she would show asher want she wanted he never gave her the time of day. work was always coming first and he never stopped to notice what he could do to change 🥺 and when they go away for a family vacation with a surprise guest … ari gets cute little midnight visits screaming someone else’s name that’s not her boyfriend 🤩
there is cheating in this one so if that’s not your thing then i suggest you skip it instead of shitting on it. there’s also the ex-wife trope who passed away as well as death of a child 🖤 BUT if you do enjoy reading this trope however 🥰 maddox is waiting in the shadows for you to fall asleep hehe
i feel like this definitely focused more on asher and ari instead of maddox and her but i still enjoyed it !! it’s the only reason why i gave this a 3.5 ⭐️ i just wanted more from ari and maddox but there was still a lot of moments with them 🥹 the constant teasing and the way he notice things about her that no one else does. the way he just wouldn’t stop until he has her and even then he’s constantly chasing her. this is a man IN LOVEEEEE 😍
🌶️🌶️🌶️
after 20 years in prison, maddox is finally out and he’s going straight away to take what he wants. and that’s his twin brother’s girlfriend of two years 🤭 maddox has been obsessing over ari and everything she does the moment his mom sent him a photo of ari. he didn’t know he could have these feelings again after everything that happened which landed him in prison. but he’s not stopping the urge to leave love letters and stalking his new obsession 🥰 ari was always taught to be useful and to settle down for the sake of her family’s reputation. she wanted more but she couldn’t ask for it. in her mind she already left the relationship between her and asher. she realized she never felt that spark and passion ever throughout their years together. whenever she would show asher want she wanted he never gave her the time of day. work was always coming first and he never stopped to notice what he could do to change 🥺 and when they go away for a family vacation with a surprise guest … ari gets cute little midnight visits screaming someone else’s name that’s not her boyfriend 🤩
there is cheating in this one so if that’s not your thing then i suggest you skip it instead of shitting on it. there’s also the ex-wife trope who passed away as well as death of a child 🖤 BUT if you do enjoy reading this trope however 🥰 maddox is waiting in the shadows for you to fall asleep hehe
i feel like this definitely focused more on asher and ari instead of maddox and her but i still enjoyed it !! it’s the only reason why i gave this a 3.5 ⭐️ i just wanted more from ari and maddox but there was still a lot of moments with them 🥹 the constant teasing and the way he notice things about her that no one else does. the way he just wouldn’t stop until he has her and even then he’s constantly chasing her. this is a man IN LOVEEEEE 😍
🌶️🌶️🌶️
July 2, 2025
2,5*
Já nevím, jestli to platí pro žánr dark romance obecně, nebo na to mám jen smůlu, ale fakt mi vadí, když se chtíč zaměňuje za lásku a hlavní hrdinové si „vybudují“ vztah zakončený svatbou a dětmi jen na základě toho, že se jim spolu dobře pr*á. Žádné jiné společné zážitky, ze kterých by ten vztah mohl opravdu vzniknout.
Tady navíc spousta věcí fakt nedávala smysl. Nápad dobrý, ale nedodělaný, uspěchaný.
Spicy scény dobrý.
Já nevím, jestli to platí pro žánr dark romance obecně, nebo na to mám jen smůlu, ale fakt mi vadí, když se chtíč zaměňuje za lásku a hlavní hrdinové si „vybudují“ vztah zakončený svatbou a dětmi jen na základě toho, že se jim spolu dobře pr*á. Žádné jiné společné zážitky, ze kterých by ten vztah mohl opravdu vzniknout.
Tady navíc spousta věcí fakt nedávala smysl. Nápad dobrý, ale nedodělaný, uspěchaný.
Spicy scény dobrý.
July 2, 2025
wowowowowow, she did it again even though "Dance with the devil." will always be my fave. This was sooo heartfelt and perfect 👌 👍 🥰
May 1, 2025
He JIZZED in her perfume!?! 😵
Yep, you read that correctly, the MMC unloaded his goods into the FMC perfume!
Luckily, I am immune to this kinda craziness in books, but I can imagine it might give a few people the ick 😂 So be prepared for this.
Now, unfortunately this book fell a bit flat for me.
I expected Maddox (MMC) to be WAY more unhinged than he was.
The book's blurb promised a "dark" read, but it wasn't really that dark? Maybe borderline dark(ish)
Yeah, Maddox did do a couple of deranged things (remember the jizz perfume) but he still held back from being too OTT and that was disappointing for me, as I sure love my MMC's crazy.
And Ari (FMC) just confused me? She stayed with Asher (Maddox's twin brother) for two years and didn't even seem to really like him. Even saying that she didn't ever get that "spark" with him.
And the fact that she gets jiggy with Maddox, within a few days, proves that fact 😬
Now is that classed as cheating? Yeah, I think so. But the author was clever and made Asher an annoying workaholic, who ignored Ari, spoke down to her and made her feel like shite. So you kinda don't dwell much on the whole cheating side of the story, giving the girl a free pass to cheat away without us hating on her (much)
The 3 star rating was mainly for all of the above, but also because the story didn't go anywhere towards the end.
I didn't expect a third-act breakup, or a kidnapping situation, I just expected more!
Even when Asher confronted the couple, it was lackluster, lasting only a page or two.
Then it was just back to them bumping uglies together 🤦🏻♀️🤣
It was a good book in all, and I don't regret reading it, as I did enjoy certain parts.
But I just needed a little something extra. Sorry 💔
Yep, you read that correctly, the MMC unloaded his goods into the FMC perfume!
Luckily, I am immune to this kinda craziness in books, but I can imagine it might give a few people the ick 😂 So be prepared for this.
Now, unfortunately this book fell a bit flat for me.
I expected Maddox (MMC) to be WAY more unhinged than he was.
The book's blurb promised a "dark" read, but it wasn't really that dark? Maybe borderline dark(ish)
Yeah, Maddox did do a couple of deranged things (remember the jizz perfume) but he still held back from being too OTT and that was disappointing for me, as I sure love my MMC's crazy.
And Ari (FMC) just confused me? She stayed with Asher (Maddox's twin brother) for two years and didn't even seem to really like him. Even saying that she didn't ever get that "spark" with him.
And the fact that she gets jiggy with Maddox, within a few days, proves that fact 😬
Now is that classed as cheating? Yeah, I think so. But the author was clever and made Asher an annoying workaholic, who ignored Ari, spoke down to her and made her feel like shite. So you kinda don't dwell much on the whole cheating side of the story, giving the girl a free pass to cheat away without us hating on her (much)
The 3 star rating was mainly for all of the above, but also because the story didn't go anywhere towards the end.
I didn't expect a third-act breakup, or a kidnapping situation, I just expected more!
Even when Asher confronted the couple, it was lackluster, lasting only a page or two.
Then it was just back to them bumping uglies together 🤦🏻♀️🤣
It was a good book in all, and I don't regret reading it, as I did enjoy certain parts.
But I just needed a little something extra. Sorry 💔
May 2, 2025
This is not a love story, this is a lust story.
Maddox was in jail for 20 years and just had a massive case of blue balls…he saw a picture of Ari a year ago and fixated on her for no real reason. Ari has been sexually frustrated for 2 years and wanted to spice up her life… Other than that,there is no real story, no plot.
There are a lot of repetitions!! Like the fact that Ari was the eldest and her dad was an ass who never let her played with her toys (honestly the whole thing is mentioned every two chapters)
Asher worked too much
Maddox smoked too much
Honestly it felt like the parents took a bunch of teenagers on holiday with their hormones full on (and the MMC is 45!!!)
I didn’t like the fact that Maddox was previously married, because it felt like Elaine was his real love and Ari was only second best, but again it’s not a love story…
Even the confrontation with Asher was anticlimactic.
Maddox was in jail for 20 years and just had a massive case of blue balls…he saw a picture of Ari a year ago and fixated on her for no real reason. Ari has been sexually frustrated for 2 years and wanted to spice up her life… Other than that,there is no real story, no plot.
There are a lot of repetitions!! Like the fact that Ari was the eldest and her dad was an ass who never let her played with her toys (honestly the whole thing is mentioned every two chapters)
Asher worked too much
Maddox smoked too much
Honestly it felt like the parents took a bunch of teenagers on holiday with their hormones full on (and the MMC is 45!!!)
I didn’t like the fact that Maddox was previously married, because it felt like Elaine was his real love and Ari was only second best, but again it’s not a love story…
Even the confrontation with Asher was anticlimactic.
Want to read
April 29, 2025Self note:
I need the safety info for this🙏🏽
I need the safety info for this🙏🏽
May 5, 2025
Play with the Phantom by ChatGpt.
Give him the credit he deserves.
This was almost painful to read.
Give him the credit he deserves.
This was almost painful to read.
April 26, 2025
Oh lord, the way Maddox just…is in charge. Damn. 😮💨
It’s difficult in a way to explain how hot this is. There is just something about Maddox. How he sees her and wants her to be the real her, and confidently so. Mmmf.
As someone who doesn’t read a lot of dark romance but is ok with “dark-ish” on occasion, this teeters toward the darker side for me. This is a stalker romance *for sure*, definite unhinged obsession. Not dark as far as violence, but psychologically yes. He’s twisted, there’s no doubt about that. The perfume scene?? Oh my! *clutches pearls* 😂😂
Do heed trigger warnings as this book really may not be for everyone, particularly that there’s cheating and also some questionable consent - you do get the underlying understanding that ultimately there is consent, but some may not see it that way.
I related to Ari so much in some ways, especially around the topics of the tiredness of holding up responsibility. There’s a definite fantasy from that of just someone seeing that and shouldering it for you that is attractive - I know I’d fight it due to the strangeness of accepting the help, but I’d love it. And that is something definitely delicious about Maddox.
I absolutely love the intensity that Amanda writes into all of her books! There’s always so many really kind of sensual, draw-you-in, obsessive type of (open door) love scenes that are just excellent and this book is no exception. It took me a little bit to click in with this book and story, but definitely toward the latter quarter of the book I was just fully *in it*.
I would have maybe liked a little more depth to their connection but the deep magnetism between them forgives a bit of it for me.
Overall definitely an unhinged obsession book with lots of heat but also really liked Maddox’s heart and how he just *sees* Ari. Great read!
Definitely recommend this one but really only if you can be ok with some of the darker themes!
4/5 ⭐️
I received an advance copy of the book and have left my honest, influence-free review
It’s difficult in a way to explain how hot this is. There is just something about Maddox. How he sees her and wants her to be the real her, and confidently so. Mmmf.
As someone who doesn’t read a lot of dark romance but is ok with “dark-ish” on occasion, this teeters toward the darker side for me. This is a stalker romance *for sure*, definite unhinged obsession. Not dark as far as violence, but psychologically yes. He’s twisted, there’s no doubt about that. The perfume scene?? Oh my! *clutches pearls* 😂😂
Do heed trigger warnings as this book really may not be for everyone, particularly that there’s cheating and also some questionable consent - you do get the underlying understanding that ultimately there is consent, but some may not see it that way.
I related to Ari so much in some ways, especially around the topics of the tiredness of holding up responsibility. There’s a definite fantasy from that of just someone seeing that and shouldering it for you that is attractive - I know I’d fight it due to the strangeness of accepting the help, but I’d love it. And that is something definitely delicious about Maddox.
I absolutely love the intensity that Amanda writes into all of her books! There’s always so many really kind of sensual, draw-you-in, obsessive type of (open door) love scenes that are just excellent and this book is no exception. It took me a little bit to click in with this book and story, but definitely toward the latter quarter of the book I was just fully *in it*.
I would have maybe liked a little more depth to their connection but the deep magnetism between them forgives a bit of it for me.
Overall definitely an unhinged obsession book with lots of heat but also really liked Maddox’s heart and how he just *sees* Ari. Great read!
Definitely recommend this one but really only if you can be ok with some of the darker themes!
4/5 ⭐️
I received an advance copy of the book and have left my honest, influence-free review
Read
April 30, 2025the book was going amazing but it had dead ex-wife trope
i personally don't like that trope otherwise the book might be awesome
i personally don't like that trope otherwise the book might be awesome
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 8, 2025
Omg. This was so boring. The FMC had no personality whatsoever except that she was not satisfied with her ex in bed.
Read
May 12, 2025Arguably luigi mangione fanfic
May 3, 2025
4.5⭐️
AAA AMANDA!!! amo a tus personajes desquiciados!!
AAA AMANDA!!! amo a tus personajes desquiciados!!
dead-wifee
August 9, 2025this has the dead wife trope a wife he loved.
safety info:
-on page sex scene with om ( her bf )
-no cheating between MCs, fmc cheats on her bf ( mmc's twin ) with the mmc
- mmc has been celibate for 20 years since he was in prison.
- no owd, just his dead wife but Ari was never jealous or insecure she just super sad for Maddox
spoilers ahead
his wife killed herself after their daughter died because she was withheld treatment
he went to prison after he killed the man responsible for their deaths.
i'm actually very disappointed that this has the dead wife, and dead baby trop because i was loving the book.
Maddox is so obsessed with Ari there is no denying that, but there’s always that what "if his wife and kid never died" he'd have never looked at the fmc and he would be happily married and in love, with possibly more kids.
especially that the reason he became that obsessive and unhinged was because of the trauma from family he lost, and prison. so if they never died he's have never been so hung up and obsessed with Ari
i wish more reviews mention this
safety info:
-on page sex scene with om ( her bf )
-no cheating between MCs, fmc cheats on her bf ( mmc's twin ) with the mmc
- mmc has been celibate for 20 years since he was in prison.
- no owd, just his dead wife but Ari was never jealous or insecure she just super sad for Maddox
spoilers ahead
his wife killed herself after their daughter died because she was withheld treatment
he went to prison after he killed the man responsible for their deaths.
i'm actually very disappointed that this has the dead wife, and dead baby trop because i was loving the book.
Maddox is so obsessed with Ari there is no denying that, but there’s always that what "if his wife and kid never died" he'd have never looked at the fmc and he would be happily married and in love, with possibly more kids.
especially that the reason he became that obsessive and unhinged was because of the trauma from family he lost, and prison. so if they never died he's have never been so hung up and obsessed with Ari
i wish more reviews mention this
June 3, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 – A spicy, fun time.
Let me just start by saying: I’ve read a lot of spicy books, but this is the first time I’ve ever encountered a man doing… that… to a perfume bottle. 😳😂 It was unhinged, a little gross, kind of hilarious–and honestly? Weirdly memorable, and I’m totally here for it! You’ll never look at perfume the same way again.
Play with the Phantom delivered exactly what I expected: a spicy, entertaining palette cleanser. The dynamic was fun, the chemistry was strong, and it definitely brought the heat.
That said, it did start to drag in places. Some sections felt a bit repetitive, and I’m not sure it needed to be quite as long as it was. It’s marketed as a dark romance because of the stalker element, but honestly, it’s pretty light on the dark side–almost too light. I actually think it would’ve been better if that stalker tension had been drawn out a little longer… but maybe I’m just freeeaky 🤪
This one’s definitely spice-forward rather than plot-forward. There is a plot in there, and it’s decent! I just wish it had taken a little more time to develop before the spice kicked in full force.
Still, if you’re looking for something fun, sexy, and a little bit edgy without getting too dark, this will scratch that itch!
Let me just start by saying: I’ve read a lot of spicy books, but this is the first time I’ve ever encountered a man doing… that… to a perfume bottle. 😳😂 It was unhinged, a little gross, kind of hilarious–and honestly? Weirdly memorable, and I’m totally here for it! You’ll never look at perfume the same way again.
Play with the Phantom delivered exactly what I expected: a spicy, entertaining palette cleanser. The dynamic was fun, the chemistry was strong, and it definitely brought the heat.
That said, it did start to drag in places. Some sections felt a bit repetitive, and I’m not sure it needed to be quite as long as it was. It’s marketed as a dark romance because of the stalker element, but honestly, it’s pretty light on the dark side–almost too light. I actually think it would’ve been better if that stalker tension had been drawn out a little longer… but maybe I’m just freeeaky 🤪
This one’s definitely spice-forward rather than plot-forward. There is a plot in there, and it’s decent! I just wish it had taken a little more time to develop before the spice kicked in full force.
Still, if you’re looking for something fun, sexy, and a little bit edgy without getting too dark, this will scratch that itch!
September 13, 2025
I didn’t hate this, but there was too much spice and that didn’t leave enough room for the plot to develop and breathe. If you just want something spicy and don’t mind the lacking plot then you might still love this, though. I wish we learned more about both MCs backstories and the aftermath with Asher.
May 4, 2025
me dió como miedo leerlo pero fue bueno
May 5, 2025
Meh.. I felt like it had so much potential and it just fell flat for me. It simultaneously felt way too short and way too long. There was zerooooo depth. Maddox was built up to be this dark psycho and he just wasn’t. The sex wasn’t even that dirty, which I thought it would be with how the book started. And also I didn’t know there was going to be a dead ex, which I typically avoid, but even then he never really talked about her or had inner monologues about her, it was just so strange, it felt more like a last minute addition to the story. I kept waiting for more insight on their relationship/background/any type of feelings he had about her at all, but pretty much the only time he talked about her is when he was inside of Ari and he paused and said that his dead wife would have liked her. Like sir.. excuse me.. what? Why? Do not be thinking about your dead wife while you are having sex with me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 27, 2025
I love that Amanda Richardson gives her readers what they want. I love the pregnancy trope. She gave us Dance with the Devil. We were introduced to Ari and her boyfriend Asher then, and now she gives us Play with the Phantom and touches upon the cheating trope. I know some readers are sensitive about it, no matter how it is written. It doesn’t bother me at all. But no, it’s not between the main characters, if that makes any difference to some. The main characters in Play with the Phantom are Ari and Maddox, Asher’s twin brother. This book is for a specific group of readers that will enjoy it, and I loved it.
Maddox is the polar opposite of Asher and has been in love with Ari for several years. The how and the why can be interpreted as creepy, but we won’t worry about it because it’s fiction. All is good, and when it’s unraveled, it is quite touching due to Maddox’s past. Play with the Phantom is longer, and readers will get a hearty story full of steam, romance, and a fun cameo from Dante and Frankie. All the tropes hit well with this story!
Maddox is the polar opposite of Asher and has been in love with Ari for several years. The how and the why can be interpreted as creepy, but we won’t worry about it because it’s fiction. All is good, and when it’s unraveled, it is quite touching due to Maddox’s past. Play with the Phantom is longer, and readers will get a hearty story full of steam, romance, and a fun cameo from Dante and Frankie. All the tropes hit well with this story!
January 23, 2026
This was a great book! Ari has been dating Asher for a couple of years when she gets invited to a family vacation. There is meet his twin brother, Maddox, for the first time. Maddox has been obsessed with Ari since he found out about her. Ari now has to decide does she stay with the safe guy or dive in with the guy that makes her feel alive.
May 2, 2025
Immediately picked this up as soon as it hit my kindle 😗 Dance With the Devil was on of my faves reads last year so I was soooo excited for this next book in the series!
These tropes 🫠🤤😍 who doesn’t love an ex con who gets out of prison and starts stalking his twin brothers girl 🤪
I loooved how obsessed Maddox was, this was such a quick and fun story that was also felt in the heart after hearing all the backstories. Even tho Maddox and Asher are twins, they couldn’t be more different. I love how perfectly fit Maddox was for Ari and how he truly understood, and embraced her needs/wants.
Amanda Richardson became an auto buy author the second I read my first book by her 👏🏼 I will be waiting for whatever is next
These tropes 🫠🤤😍 who doesn’t love an ex con who gets out of prison and starts stalking his twin brothers girl 🤪
I loooved how obsessed Maddox was, this was such a quick and fun story that was also felt in the heart after hearing all the backstories. Even tho Maddox and Asher are twins, they couldn’t be more different. I love how perfectly fit Maddox was for Ari and how he truly understood, and embraced her needs/wants.
Amanda Richardson became an auto buy author the second I read my first book by her 👏🏼 I will be waiting for whatever is next
July 15, 2025
She delulu and he got issues. BACK TO JAIL SIR!
May 20, 2025
4⭐ / 4🌶️
[📱] ebook
— vibezz
💌 boyfriend's twin
⛱️ cheating
💌 age gap [45H 29h]
⛱️ forced proximity
💌 stalking
mini blurb — ✍🏻
Ari always settled herself with what she considered enough, a decent life, a decent job, a decent career, decent expectations for her life and a good enough boyfriend. Two years with Asher and she did not once felt seen or desired, but when she finally meet his twin brother during a family vacation, she start to reevaluate everything she ever settled for and maybe desire a little more for herself.
//
honestly I'm not even mad about the "slight" cheating trope.. Ari and Asher were mild at best, two years of relationship and he doesn't even know she collects Polly Pockets ffs I would have smashed his phone right on his face but I get why she was with him.
Why she thought him and everything that he represent was what's good for her, that if she was good enough maybe he could love her even just a fraction of what she deserved.
But then come Maddox 😈 I loved everything about him, he was like a hurricane swiping all those pretty standards she supposed to have about everything and finally made her feel alive.
She was reluctant at first, but who wouldn't be? But boi he was relentless
bye I'm still thinking about those last chapters with a glimpse of their life some time after and I'll have heart eyes for 5-10 business days 🩵🩵
[📱] ebook
— vibezz
💌 boyfriend's twin
⛱️ cheating
💌 age gap [45H 29h]
⛱️ forced proximity
💌 stalking
mini blurb — ✍🏻
Ari always settled herself with what she considered enough, a decent life, a decent job, a decent career, decent expectations for her life and a good enough boyfriend. Two years with Asher and she did not once felt seen or desired, but when she finally meet his twin brother during a family vacation, she start to reevaluate everything she ever settled for and maybe desire a little more for herself.
//
honestly I'm not even mad about the "slight" cheating trope.. Ari and Asher were mild at best, two years of relationship and he doesn't even know she collects Polly Pockets ffs I would have smashed his phone right on his face but I get why she was with him.
Why she thought him and everything that he represent was what's good for her, that if she was good enough maybe he could love her even just a fraction of what she deserved.
But then come Maddox 😈 I loved everything about him, he was like a hurricane swiping all those pretty standards she supposed to have about everything and finally made her feel alive.
She was reluctant at first, but who wouldn't be? But boi he was relentless
She’s been holding everything up for so long, she doesn’t even realize she can let go.
That’s what I’ll do. I’ll make her let go. I’ll show her she doesn’t have to make the decisions, or be the strong one, or take care of everyone else.
She’s mine to take care of now.
bye I'm still thinking about those last chapters with a glimpse of their life some time after and I'll have heart eyes for 5-10 business days 🩵🩵
I drop to my knees.
“I need you to understand what you mean to me.”
She swallows. “I do.”
“No,” I rasp. “I don’t think you do.”
She starts to speak, but I’m already pushing her shirt up, already kissing my way up the inside of her thighs.
“No one,” I say, mouth against her soft skin. “No fucking one—has ever made me feel the way you do.”
Her breath hitches.
“You’ve always been mine,” I murmur. “But now?” I place a kiss on her belly as I look up at her. “Now you’re both mine. Forever.”
May 7, 2025
3 stars because who the f**k nicknames someone “little warrior” 😭
Displaying 1 - 30 of 701 reviews