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In the Shadows: A Dark Stalker Romance
- GenresDark Romance
330 pages, Paperback
Published October 14, 2025
14 people are currently reading
357 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews
December 17, 2025
"In the Shadows: A Dark Stalker Romance" by J.A. Owenby plunges into the disquieting depths of obsession, danger, and desire, crafting a narrative that's as thrilling as it is disturbing. The novel revolves around Ella, a cam girl entangled in a web of online exhibitionism and real-world threats, and Sebastian, the enigmatic bartender who ignites a passionate romance, all while a sinister stalker lurks in the darkness, threatening to consume Ella's world.
Ella is portrayed as a young woman driven by desperation, seeking financial stability through unconventional means. Her vulnerability is palpable, yet she possesses a hidden strength, a resilience that allows her to navigate the treacherous waters of her chosen profession. Her relationship with Cami, her best friend, provides a semblance of normalcy amidst the chaos, offering a glimpse into the life Ella yearns for. However, it's her connection with Sebastian that truly captivates, a whirlwind romance that offers solace and danger in equal measure. Sebastian's charm and allure mask a hidden depth, leaving Ella (and the reader) questioning his true intentions. The stalker, a shadowy figure whose identity remains shrouded in mystery for much of the novel, serves as the catalyst for Ella's descent into paranoia and fear. His relentless pursuit forces her to confront her deepest insecurities and question the nature of her desires.
One of the most compelling aspects of "In the Shadows" is its exploration of the blurred lines between fantasy and reality. Ella's online persona provides her with a sense of empowerment, allowing her to control her image and dictate the terms of her interactions. However, this control is shattered when her virtual world bleeds into her real life, blurring the boundaries between performance and authenticity. The novel also delves into the theme of vulnerability, exposing the dark underbelly of online exhibitionism and the potential dangers of seeking validation through virtual connections. Ella's willingness to expose herself to strangers online leaves her susceptible to exploitation and manipulation, highlighting the inherent risks of living in an increasingly digital world. Another prominent theme in "In the Shadows" is the exploration of trust and betrayal. Ella's relationships are constantly tested as she struggles to discern who she can truly rely on. Sebastian's mysterious past and the stalker's insidious presence cast a shadow of doubt over everyone she encounters, forcing her to question the motives of those closest to her.
The plot twists are expertly woven into the narrative, keeping readers on the edge of their seats as they attempt to unravel the mystery surrounding Ella's stalker. Just when you think you have it figured out, Owenby throws a wrench into the works, leaving you guessing until the very end. The tone of the novel is dark and suspenseful, with moments of intense passion and raw emotion. Owenby masterfully creates an atmosphere of unease, immersing readers in Ella's world and making them feel her fear and desperation.
In conclusion, "In the Shadows: A Dark Stalker Romance" is a gripping and thought-provoking novel that will leave you questioning the nature of desire, trust, and vulnerability. J.A. Owenby has crafted a tale that is both thrilling and disturbing, exploring the dark side of human nature with unflinching honesty. If you enjoyed "In the Shadows," you might also enjoy "The Collector" by John Fowles or "You" by Caroline Kepnes, both of which explore themes of obsession and manipulation.
Ella is portrayed as a young woman driven by desperation, seeking financial stability through unconventional means. Her vulnerability is palpable, yet she possesses a hidden strength, a resilience that allows her to navigate the treacherous waters of her chosen profession. Her relationship with Cami, her best friend, provides a semblance of normalcy amidst the chaos, offering a glimpse into the life Ella yearns for. However, it's her connection with Sebastian that truly captivates, a whirlwind romance that offers solace and danger in equal measure. Sebastian's charm and allure mask a hidden depth, leaving Ella (and the reader) questioning his true intentions. The stalker, a shadowy figure whose identity remains shrouded in mystery for much of the novel, serves as the catalyst for Ella's descent into paranoia and fear. His relentless pursuit forces her to confront her deepest insecurities and question the nature of her desires.
One of the most compelling aspects of "In the Shadows" is its exploration of the blurred lines between fantasy and reality. Ella's online persona provides her with a sense of empowerment, allowing her to control her image and dictate the terms of her interactions. However, this control is shattered when her virtual world bleeds into her real life, blurring the boundaries between performance and authenticity. The novel also delves into the theme of vulnerability, exposing the dark underbelly of online exhibitionism and the potential dangers of seeking validation through virtual connections. Ella's willingness to expose herself to strangers online leaves her susceptible to exploitation and manipulation, highlighting the inherent risks of living in an increasingly digital world. Another prominent theme in "In the Shadows" is the exploration of trust and betrayal. Ella's relationships are constantly tested as she struggles to discern who she can truly rely on. Sebastian's mysterious past and the stalker's insidious presence cast a shadow of doubt over everyone she encounters, forcing her to question the motives of those closest to her.
The plot twists are expertly woven into the narrative, keeping readers on the edge of their seats as they attempt to unravel the mystery surrounding Ella's stalker. Just when you think you have it figured out, Owenby throws a wrench into the works, leaving you guessing until the very end. The tone of the novel is dark and suspenseful, with moments of intense passion and raw emotion. Owenby masterfully creates an atmosphere of unease, immersing readers in Ella's world and making them feel her fear and desperation.
In conclusion, "In the Shadows: A Dark Stalker Romance" is a gripping and thought-provoking novel that will leave you questioning the nature of desire, trust, and vulnerability. J.A. Owenby has crafted a tale that is both thrilling and disturbing, exploring the dark side of human nature with unflinching honesty. If you enjoyed "In the Shadows," you might also enjoy "The Collector" by John Fowles or "You" by Caroline Kepnes, both of which explore themes of obsession and manipulation.
November 8, 2025
What did I just read? Seriously—what was that?
First: the dialogue. Bad enough to make me check if a man wrote it. Then I find out the author is a woman. And the protagonist is supposed to be in her thirties and a paralegal. Paralegals are supposed to be literate and competent. This woman reads dumber than a box of rocks—and I say that with respect for the rocks.
The heroine (I don’t even remember her name) is allegedly an adult with a side gig doing camera work to pay for mysterious medical bills. Fine. But we’re supposed to believe she’s so hot that men only ever offer her McDonald’s-level courtship? That’s lazy characterization, not sexy mystique.
And Sebastian. I remember his name because he’s basically a walking assault charge with abs. Sexy accent? Check. Muscles? Check. Unexplained wealth? Triple check. Paranoid, possessive, and stalking tendencies? Oh please—BINGO. Romantic lead or criminal waiting for paperwork? You decide.
Is there a plot? Maybe. Somewhere between the 500th “bestie” and the thousandth “I need to protect her,” I lost the thread. The book teases darkness and danger, but when action finally appears, it’s so limp I skimmed through it. I kept waiting for something genuinely sinister to pay off. Nothing. Or if something did happen, it was so badly written I missed it.
Worst of all—this heroine is the boring kind of bland that makes you root for disaster. You want to see bad things happen because she’s forgettable; but the villain gets bored too. Maybe that’s their superpower: making everyone slump into apathy.
Final verdict: a squandered premise masked by cringe dialogue, a parade of tired tropes, and characters so flat they could be bookmarks. Don’t recommend.
First: the dialogue. Bad enough to make me check if a man wrote it. Then I find out the author is a woman. And the protagonist is supposed to be in her thirties and a paralegal. Paralegals are supposed to be literate and competent. This woman reads dumber than a box of rocks—and I say that with respect for the rocks.
The heroine (I don’t even remember her name) is allegedly an adult with a side gig doing camera work to pay for mysterious medical bills. Fine. But we’re supposed to believe she’s so hot that men only ever offer her McDonald’s-level courtship? That’s lazy characterization, not sexy mystique.
And Sebastian. I remember his name because he’s basically a walking assault charge with abs. Sexy accent? Check. Muscles? Check. Unexplained wealth? Triple check. Paranoid, possessive, and stalking tendencies? Oh please—BINGO. Romantic lead or criminal waiting for paperwork? You decide.
Is there a plot? Maybe. Somewhere between the 500th “bestie” and the thousandth “I need to protect her,” I lost the thread. The book teases darkness and danger, but when action finally appears, it’s so limp I skimmed through it. I kept waiting for something genuinely sinister to pay off. Nothing. Or if something did happen, it was so badly written I missed it.
Worst of all—this heroine is the boring kind of bland that makes you root for disaster. You want to see bad things happen because she’s forgettable; but the villain gets bored too. Maybe that’s their superpower: making everyone slump into apathy.
Final verdict: a squandered premise masked by cringe dialogue, a parade of tired tropes, and characters so flat they could be bookmarks. Don’t recommend.
August 27, 2025
Well this was a wild ride and I loved it! It kept me on my toes and I loved the psychological aspects. I can never say no to a stalker romance
Tropes
- Stalker mmc
- Masked mmc
- Age gap
- Multiple pov’s
Quotes <3
“Ella was the flicker of light in my dark world, the color in my grayscale existence, and I yearned for her like the night yearns for stars.”
“We were meant for each other—even if it meant killing people along the way. I had to have her for my own—no matter what it took because … Even Death deserved a Queen.”
“I will destroy you, then piece you back together to match me, little lamb.”
“I love you. I bleed for you. I cry for you. Everything I do is for you. Let me take your pain.”
“my heart only beats for you.”
Tropes
- Stalker mmc
- Masked mmc
- Age gap
- Multiple pov’s
Quotes <3
“Ella was the flicker of light in my dark world, the color in my grayscale existence, and I yearned for her like the night yearns for stars.”
“We were meant for each other—even if it meant killing people along the way. I had to have her for my own—no matter what it took because … Even Death deserved a Queen.”
“I will destroy you, then piece you back together to match me, little lamb.”
“I love you. I bleed for you. I cry for you. Everything I do is for you. Let me take your pain.”
“my heart only beats for you.”
May 7, 2025
Not really sure why this saying its not published yet but it is lol.. and its fab!! stalker.. nice guy... nice gal with a dark side... everything u could want in a book lol .. on to the 2nd in the series.. Back in the shadows !
June 25, 2025
Spicy with a good story line that keeps you wondering what’s going to happen next. You have a good girl, good guy, and bad guy “Death”. This is the most twisted dark romance/thriller I have read. Will I read book two in the series? Yes!
September 16, 2025
Really enjoyed reading this dark stalker romance book. The story definitely had a twist that I was not expecting and I wish the ending was a bit different but overall the storyline kept me wanting to know what happens next.
September 21, 2025
Well written, good characters, easily read in one night. Excellent twists. Ella & Sebastian. Trigger warnings. Stalker romance. Also contains Vigilantes & rescue heroes. Would have been a 5* except for unrealistic rp scene and too much fifth base.
October 18, 2025
I absolutely loved this book! it kept me guessing which is not easy! and the ending!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! 10/10 recommend! check TW
November 12, 2025
I very rarely DNF
Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews