Don't Run little mouse

by Shelly Gray

Life is a game of survival, something Kiera Hayes was used to. Growing up in the system, being sold to a sex trafficker, and being bought as a sex slave molded Kiera into the perfect submissive for her much older, sadistic master. When the opportunity to leave her current imprisonment arose, Kiera fled and began living a normal life, until she became the accidental victim of a serial killer and the only survivor thanks to an unlikely hero who happened to be stalking her.

WARNING:
This is a Dark stalker romance about serial killers, rape, non-consensual and consensual acts, violence, murder, torture, domestic murder suicide, thoughts of suicide, mention of underaged sex trafficking, sex slaves and forceful situations. This is not a story for anyone easily triggered or under 18 years of age. Morals should be questioned, and triggers should be checked, but if you like authors with a dark side and a twisted mind, then please proceed at your own mental risk.

Genres: Dark Romance, Dark

Unknown Binding

Published August 12, 2025

About the author

Just an Indie Author trying to bring happiness to dark-minded readers one page at a time.

Reviews

[Cari Rees · Rating 5 out of 5]

Shelly writes the best stories with jaw dropping situations! This book was no exception. The story line keeps you hooked wanting to know what will happen next! It’s addictive. The insta connection Leo and Kiera have is so good! The way he takes care of her and will kill anyone who has ever hurt her. I just love it. The last chapter brought tears to my eyes… Such a great read! Lots of triggers and lots of spicy scenes.

[Lori · Rating 5 out of 5]

Every time I read a book by Shelly, I say "this one is my new favorite"... well ladies and gents, this one is DEFINITELY my favorite thus far! It's spicy, it's heartbreaking, it's dramatic, it's got it all! Kiera's childhood is hell, and unfortunately that followed her through to adulthood. She's been through more than most humans could possible imagine going through, but she comes out such a fierce bad ass in the end. Leo is her warrior covered in blood that will go to the ends of the world to protect her, and do dirty things with her! If I could give this book 10 stars, I would! I loved it!!!!

[Jessica Barnett · Rating 5 out of 5]

Omg I love how Shelly has gotten darker in writing this story. I love that we have Leo that is a SERIAL KILLER THAT KILLS OTHER SERIAL KILLERS. Also he will take help take out any one that hurt Kiera. Kiera is not as innocent as you think when you first meet her, I love that we get to see her dark side coming out. I loved the spicy scenes with Leo man where they HOTTT. The villains that Shelly gives us are just perfect to hate and we have a few. Ghost and Rocket are amazing side characters. I so want a rocket of my own. There are plenty of spicy scenes. Please check your triggers. I can't wait to add this to my shelves. I so need this darker side of Shelly to come out and play some more. I was pulled in from the first page and was hooked. I so needed this story to take my mind of off life and it did just that.

[Maggie Haught · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow!
Are you ready for a wild ride of love, tragedy, stalking and death?
Shelly had done it again in this fast paced dark romance. Kiera is such a strong FMC with a stalker that is in love with her and will do anything! Reading about her growth to become a better person and overcome her demons is magical!
Please check your trigger warnings… your mental health matters.

[Nellie aka Cult Menace · Rating 5 out of 5]

Shelly Gray's Don't Run Little Mouse is a provocative and intense story that plows head-on into the darker corners of romance, blending elements of suspense and psychological complexity. I cannot say enough about how brilliant the character development is in this book. Even the side characters, Rocket and Ghost, were brilliant! This stalker romance pushes traditional boundaries, exploring a taboo dynamic where the FMC, Kiera, unexpectedly finds herself drawn to her stalker. The MMC, Leo, “ I will burn the world down for and slay all your demons,” is so well written and portrayed. Leo, the serial killer of serial killers, is the perfect anti-hero! The plot twist had me in my feels! The spice is top-notch, and the action is thrilling and immersive.

Don't Run Little Mouse is a daring, emotionally charged novel that explores the blurred lines between obsession and love. Shelly Gray crafts a gripping narrative that will resonate with readers interested in dark romance and psychological drama, provided they are comfortable with its controversial themes. It's a provocative read that invites reflection on the complexities of human desire and the boundaries of love.

Please be sure to check your trigger warnings before you embark on this adventure. But if you read trigger warnings like a menu, then this is definitely a must-read and bookshelf trophy-worthy.

[Brenda Ryals · Rating 5 out of 5]

Not your average stalker romance… this one wrecked me.

From the start, I thought I knew what I was getting into—dark romance, obsessive love, a little danger—but this book took that idea, shredded it, and fed it back to me in the most twisted, addictive way.

It’s not just a stalker romance—it’s a stalker of a stalker, and if that already sounds wild, just wait. The twists? Insane. Every time I thought I had the story figured out, something happened that completely blew my theory apart. I stayed up way too late flipping pages like my life depended on it.

The author does not shy away from trauma, lust, revenge, and very heavy themes. There are scenes that are dark, uncomfortable, and deeply emotional. But it’s also full of spice—not just physical, but emotionally intense. That push and pull between the characters? Unhinged and unforgettable.

And that ending? I’m still not over it. I won’t spoil it, but just know… it left me staring at the last page in total shock.

⚠️ Massive trigger warning for sensitive content—check them before you dive in. This book goes to some very dark places. But if you’re a fan of morally grey characters, psychological mind games, obsessive love, and revenge arcs that hit hard, this book will absolutely be your next obsession.

Highly recommend to dark romance readers who like their stories raw, twisted, and impossible to put down.
Happy reading… and prepare to be haunted.

[Kelly Schneider · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was lucky enough to have this book provided to me as an ARC to review and I am giving an honest review. This book was great. Dark, intense, and deeply twisted—this stalker romance pulls you into a dangerous game of obsession and survival. Shelly Gray delivers a gripping, emotional ride filled with tension, power plays, and heat. Not for the faint of heart, but perfect for fans of dark romance with a psychological edge. Make sure to read trigger warnings as there are quite a few. Lots of spicy scenes. Overall a great read!

[Heather Santos · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! This was an amazing story! I loved the characters so much! From beginning to end I couldn’t put it down! Another great story from an incredible author!

[Melissa Mejia · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had the pleasure of receiving this book as an ARC and I voluntarily give my honest review. Hands down to Shelly!! She did it again with this book!! This DARK Romance book was phenomenal!! Loved the chemistry between the FMC Kiera and MMC Leo. Leo who is a serial killer will kill other serial killers to protect his little mouse and keep her safe!! Had me wanting more!! Loved Kiera pet raccoon Rocket, I want him!

Trigger Warning be sure to READ!!

This is a Dark stalker romance about serial killers, rape, non-consensual and consensual acts, violence, murder, torture, domestic murder suicide, thoughts of suicide, mention of underaged sex trafficking, sex slaves and forceful situations. This is not a story for anyone easily triggered or under 18 years of age. Morals should be questioned, and triggers should be checked, but if you like authors with a dark side and a twisted mind, then please proceed at your own mental risk.

[Lori Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

OMG!! This book was so good!! It has all the darkness we come to expect with dark romance, serial killers, revenge, stalkers, sick twisted minds, blood lust!!! I literally read through this book in two days. I could not put it down!! Don’t Run Little Mouse by Shelly Gray has got it all!!!

[Heather Shower · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dark. Twisted. Addictive.

“Don’t Run, Little Mouse” is not just another dark romance ....it’s a psychological rollercoaster dipped in trauma, spice, and pure chaos. Shelly Gray gives us a hauntingly beautiful story about Kiera, whose past is a nightmare most wouldn’t survive. Her pain is raw, her strength is brutal, and her journey? Absolutely unforgettable.

Leo… oh Leo. A bloodstained protector with a savage heart and a twisted devotion. He’s everything you want in a dark hero - terrifyingly loyal and devastatingly dirty.

This book is full of revenge, spice, heartbreak, and plot twists that will have your jaw on the floor. If I could rate it 10 stars, I would.

Check your triggers. Then, run straight into this book. But don’t say I didn’t warn you.

[Lynn Kinsley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Was a great read. Couldn't put it down even with a headache. I keep wanting to know what was going to happen and who was going to die. It left me guessing who and what was going to happen next. did not expect the ending.

[Lisa Gainers · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a fast-paced spicy thriller. The FMC was just as morally black as the MMC. The twist at the end threw me for a loop, I didn't see that coming and I Loved it. Loved that there was a great mix of spice and plot. Shelly Gray knows how to write spicy books. Please remember to always check your trigger warnings.

[Victoria Lawson · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC Review of Don’t Run Little Mouse by Shelly Gray

To say I devoured this book is an understatement. I started it about 7:30pm last night and finished it at 1:00pm today.

It was so good and dark and twisted. Just an over all good dark romance. 10/10 must read for dark romance lovers.

@Authorshellygray

#dontrunlittlemous
#dontrun
#littlemouse
#shellygray
#stalker
#touchheranddie

[Jen Baldwin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Received an ARC of this, thank you, Shelly!!
This is an insta-love, modern day, Bonnie and Clyde. There is nothing better than a victim getting her revenge and her man.

[Terri Seanard · Rating 5 out of 5]

Shelly Gray is one of my auto-buy authors, I will read anything she writes
AND THIS ONE DID NOT DISSAPOINT!!!
Keira has a dark troubled past and Leo has a dark side known to only his victims.
When these two get together sparks fly and so do their clothes.
I would love to have my own Leo from chapter 5.
This book has it all...
stalking
unaliving
banter
spice (Oh so freaking spicey)
revenge
and
There is even a trash panda.

Shelly has stepped up her writing game and I am so glad I am here for it.

[Kristi Schatz · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is darker than anything Shelly has written and I absolutely loved it!! It’s a dark, stalker romance full of insta love, touch her get murdered, revenge, and a whole lot of spice!! Leo and Kiera are so amazing together. They’re each other’s calm to their storms. Their vibe together is off the charts! The revenge in this book is nothing short of what they deserve. I loved, loved, loved, this book!!! Bravo Shelly!!

[Angel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Shelly Gray’s books get darker and darker! This is one of the most addicting books by her. I could not put it down and devoured it in one sitting. 

Brief summary: After surviving an attack by the Coastal Killer, Kiera moves to a new town to get a new start. But the Coastal Killer follows her. Little does he know that he is also being hunted by another serial killer, Leo, Kiera’s stalker and protector. 

The story is dark, fast paced and a great read for dark romance readers! If you love: 

Instalove 
Stalker romance
Touch her and die trope
Spice, spice and more spice!
A racoon pet
Revenge plot

You will love this book! 

Overall, I gave this book 4 stars!

[Katie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Holy cow! This book is dark! If you like dark romance, thriller, touch her and die, stalker, suspense, action, gore and so much more you will love this book. I could not put it down. Every chapter had me needing to know what was going to happen next! Loved it!

[Diane · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love all of Shelly‘s books. I knew going into this one it was going to be darker than her other books, but my was I surprised. Kiera’s life was absolutely horrible. Her getting away from almost being killed and getting to get her revenge on the people that put her through hell is chefs kiss. We all want a Leo in our life to protect us and to ravish us. If you were looking for a short, spicy & deliciously dark story this one’s for you!

[Brittany Nickey · Rating 4 out of 5]

Don’t Run, Little Mouse by Shelly Gray dives into themes of trauma, survival, vengeance, and healing. Its is intense and dark.

Leo the mmc is protective and obsessed with Kierra, the fmc. He is willing to kill anyone who has ever hurt her.

Kierra is a survivor of severe trauma, she endured a childhood in the foster system and ultimately being sold into sex slavery. Her growth throughout this book is one of my favorite parts of the story. From a broken, fearful girl to a woman empowered by the strength Leo gives her, Kierra’s transformation is nothing short of remarkable.

If you enjoy suspense, dark romance, trauma, and more then this book if definitely for you.

[Nicole Wilcox · Rating 5 out of 5]

My opinion might be biases when it comes to Shelly’s books but people READ THIS BOOK!

I cant even begin to express how good this was! A vibe was set, the vibe was met, the vibe was exceeded! 👏🏻

Leo, you will lick this man up the moment you meet him. But girls…hold onto your panties when you get to chapter five! He will literally burn the world for Kiera, whether she wants it or not 🔥

Kiera, oh my sweet, not so innocent Kiera. Once again another bad ass female has been born and I am here for it! It is exceptional the way this characters grows in this book.

[Shellee · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ // 🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶

This book was a hell of a ride. Lol. Please take the trigger/content warnings seriously.

First of all, I gave this book 5 ⭐️ because 4.5 isn't an option, and 4 just didn't seem right. I'd only choose 4.5 ⭐️ because it was a bit fast-paced in some places I wanted more depth.

The spice level of this book 5🌶. There was some sort of spice every single chapter after Leo finally got his hands on Kiera. Settings were intense and wild.

There was indeed some feminine rage in this story and a male serial killer to encourage her terribly devious and blood thirsty desires.

I loved it. It was fast-paced. Made my heart clench at the end, but it was an HEA, and I'm happy for that because if not, I'd have been so heartbroken for the alternative.

Thank you, Shelly Gray and her PA Team, for giving me the chance to ARC Read/Review this book. It had me laughing, shaking my head, and at near tears. I can't wait to read more of Shelly Gray's books.

I will forever recommend this book now.

[Tonya Blanton · Rating 5 out of 5]

So this isn’t your typical Stalker book it’s more like a stalker of a stalker with a whole lot of twist. When you start you think you know, but you don’t. There is trauma there is lust. There is revenge. There is a whole lot of spice and the ending. Wow I feel like if I say too much I’m giving spoilers which I don’t like to do, but if you like dark romance And revenge with a plot twist galore this is definitely the book for you. I highly suggest you check your triggers as always happy reading.!!!

[Ann-Helen Slåen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dark, raw and deranged - that's my first impression; and if you're squeamish, this book's NOT for you.
However; if you're like me, if you have the ability to see past the triggers and see the story for what it is ; well, you're in for a real treat!
Yes, the story DOES go by a bit quick sometimes, but overall the details and the storyline itself is more than enough for me to keep devouring it in one go!

[Tatiana · Rating 5 out of 5]

As always..

Please check the trigger warnings before continuing..

This book is officially the darkest I have ever read from Shelly and I am definitely here for it!.

Kiera and Leo are perfectly imperfect for each other. Let’s be honest who doesn’t get down for a serial unaliver who targets other serial unalivers?

ADD TO YOUR TBR NOW!

[Stephanie Pelopida · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wow Shelly! This has got to be your best book yet. I love watching you grow as a writer. Heed the trigger warnings for this one. I read this in one whole sitting because I couldnt put it down. It gets really dark really fast. I enjoyed the little twists along the way. I need a cleanse after this one 😩 🥵

[Jamie Calhoun · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5-Loved this!!! What does it say about me that I find a murderer HOT!!! Leo Leo Leo. Love the intense off the charts chemistry between "little mouse" and Leo*sigh* Hot Hot Hot. Keep em comin Shelly.

[Amanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow!! This book is intense but so good. I do recommend you read the trigger warnings carefully before you read the book. Keira has suffered a lot and Leo is her "white knight". This book is well written. It's great from beginning to end.