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Deadly Obsession: A Dark Slasher Romance
From Grayton D, TikTok's masked voice actor, comes his debut contribution to the writing world, Deadly Obsession, a stalker, dark romance, slasher novel.
The mixed communities of book influencers and masked cosplayers on TikTok can be amazing. Friendships are made, stretching beyond borders and across oceans, uniting likeminded people around the world. It’s usually a perfect no drama, and everyone is exactly how they seem…
But what happens when a group of those friends meet for the first time in a cabin deep in the wilderness just before Halloween?
Sera recently became a single mother after escaping an abusive relationship in her home of England. After such a rough ordeal, she finds solace in books, tattooing, and the social media accounts she’s built.
American cowboy and fellow content creator, James ‘Callsign Mustang’, manages to capture Sera’s attention. His obsessive personality may be a red flag to some, but being the center of someone’s every waking thought is a welcome change of pace for Sera after all she’s been through.
Leading up to the trip, James made it extremely clear that Sera would be in store for something far wilder than an eight second ride. But when members of their group start going missing and later turning up dead, Sera begins to wonder if James is really the ride she signed up for…
The mixed communities of book influencers and masked cosplayers on TikTok can be amazing. Friendships are made, stretching beyond borders and across oceans, uniting likeminded people around the world. It’s usually a perfect no drama, and everyone is exactly how they seem…
But what happens when a group of those friends meet for the first time in a cabin deep in the wilderness just before Halloween?
Sera recently became a single mother after escaping an abusive relationship in her home of England. After such a rough ordeal, she finds solace in books, tattooing, and the social media accounts she’s built.
American cowboy and fellow content creator, James ‘Callsign Mustang’, manages to capture Sera’s attention. His obsessive personality may be a red flag to some, but being the center of someone’s every waking thought is a welcome change of pace for Sera after all she’s been through.
Leading up to the trip, James made it extremely clear that Sera would be in store for something far wilder than an eight second ride. But when members of their group start going missing and later turning up dead, Sera begins to wonder if James is really the ride she signed up for…
- GenresDark RomanceDark
306 pages, Paperback
Published August 2, 2025
49 people are currently reading
237 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
July 14, 2025
ARC Review
‼️SPOILERS BELOW‼️
"What really is happily ever after?"
That question didn’t just linger in the air, it gutted me, choked me, and left me bleeding on the floor. And after those epilogues? I’m still crawling through the wreckage trying to breathe.
This book is a razor blade in the dark, wrapped in lust and layered with more emotion than I was prepared for. Deadly Obsession isn’t just dark romance, it’s psychological warfare dressed up in a slasher mask and a possessive, dominant Texan who redefines what it means to love hard.
James and Sera? They were made of blood and ashes and whispered kinks in the dead of night. Their chemistry? Unholy. That masked chase scene had me absolutely feral. The axe play? The rope? The control and the praise twisted with fear and longing? Peak fantasy. And don’t even get me started on the bath scene…tender, intimate, worshipful. Daddy Mustang knew exactly what she needed. What I needed.
But what wrecked me — what left me sobbing and screaming and clawing at my fucking chest, was the end.
Because that second epilogue? It flipped everything upside down.
Was the first epilogue a dream? A delusion? A desperate man’s coping mechanism after losing the only person who ever saw him? Did Sera die? Was James institutionalized for a crime he never committed?
Grayton didn’t give me closure.
He gave me a padded room of what-ifs and a journal full of maybes.
And I can’t stop thinking about it.
If you want fluff, go elsewhere.
If you want brutal, brilliant, and completely unhinged love that bleeds and scars and claws its way under your skin, this book is waiting for you. Just don’t expect to walk away whole.
Because I sure as fuck didn’t.
‼️SPOILERS BELOW‼️
"What really is happily ever after?"
That question didn’t just linger in the air, it gutted me, choked me, and left me bleeding on the floor. And after those epilogues? I’m still crawling through the wreckage trying to breathe.
This book is a razor blade in the dark, wrapped in lust and layered with more emotion than I was prepared for. Deadly Obsession isn’t just dark romance, it’s psychological warfare dressed up in a slasher mask and a possessive, dominant Texan who redefines what it means to love hard.
James and Sera? They were made of blood and ashes and whispered kinks in the dead of night. Their chemistry? Unholy. That masked chase scene had me absolutely feral. The axe play? The rope? The control and the praise twisted with fear and longing? Peak fantasy. And don’t even get me started on the bath scene…tender, intimate, worshipful. Daddy Mustang knew exactly what she needed. What I needed.
But what wrecked me — what left me sobbing and screaming and clawing at my fucking chest, was the end.
Because that second epilogue? It flipped everything upside down.
Was the first epilogue a dream? A delusion? A desperate man’s coping mechanism after losing the only person who ever saw him? Did Sera die? Was James institutionalized for a crime he never committed?
Grayton didn’t give me closure.
He gave me a padded room of what-ifs and a journal full of maybes.
And I can’t stop thinking about it.
If you want fluff, go elsewhere.
If you want brutal, brilliant, and completely unhinged love that bleeds and scars and claws its way under your skin, this book is waiting for you. Just don’t expect to walk away whole.
Because I sure as fuck didn’t.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 14, 2025
Deadly Obsession isn’t for the faint of heart. It’s for the readers who crave knives with their kisses, blood with their bonding, and plots that break your mind just as hard as they break your heart.
Grayton D’s debut novel is what happens when a masked man steps out of the shadows, rips the mask off BookTok, and drags us into the carnage. We’re lured to a cabin full of influencers (some clout chasers and users), where the fake smiles and empty shelves get replaced by screams and splattered blood. And yet, beneath the gore, there’s depth. There’s trauma. There’s a military undertone and a mental health thread that feels personal, vulnerable, real.
Sera, the FMC, is strong, broken, resilient—written with care, not clichés. And Mustang? Whew. He’s everything a dark romance alpha should be: dominant, damaged, and dangerously seductive. And when I say Grayton brings new meaning to getting the axe... I mean that literally and erotically.
What truly sold this for me, though, was the structure. The book plays out like a BDSM scene: the seductive buildup, the intense crescendo, and just when you think you're in the soft, warm haze of aftercare... the reality cracks. A psychological reveal that makes you question everything. I had to reread the ending—not out of confusion, but because my mind needed to catch up.
Grayton didn’t write a debut. He launched a manifesto. This book is a scream into the dark, a challenge to the genre, and a twisted, beautiful mind game that’ll live under your skin. Five stars. Zero peace.
This was so nice. I had to do it twice. Yup, a reread folks read it twice in two days.
Grayton D’s debut novel is what happens when a masked man steps out of the shadows, rips the mask off BookTok, and drags us into the carnage. We’re lured to a cabin full of influencers (some clout chasers and users), where the fake smiles and empty shelves get replaced by screams and splattered blood. And yet, beneath the gore, there’s depth. There’s trauma. There’s a military undertone and a mental health thread that feels personal, vulnerable, real.
Sera, the FMC, is strong, broken, resilient—written with care, not clichés. And Mustang? Whew. He’s everything a dark romance alpha should be: dominant, damaged, and dangerously seductive. And when I say Grayton brings new meaning to getting the axe... I mean that literally and erotically.
What truly sold this for me, though, was the structure. The book plays out like a BDSM scene: the seductive buildup, the intense crescendo, and just when you think you're in the soft, warm haze of aftercare... the reality cracks. A psychological reveal that makes you question everything. I had to reread the ending—not out of confusion, but because my mind needed to catch up.
Grayton didn’t write a debut. He launched a manifesto. This book is a scream into the dark, a challenge to the genre, and a twisted, beautiful mind game that’ll live under your skin. Five stars. Zero peace.
This was so nice. I had to do it twice. Yup, a reread folks read it twice in two days.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 15, 2025
This book is a love letter to Booktok. Elements of 🌶️🌶️ 🌶️🌶️🌶️ in every chapter. Horror that might just be splatterpunk and depravity I eat up. If you see a trigger warning and think oooh a menu this book is for you. If you’re in the comments of any masktok man. THIS BOOK IS FOR YOU!
The ending will ruin you btw.
The ending will ruin you btw.
July 12, 2025
I just finished my read of Deadly Obsession by Grayton D and to say that I’m blown away would be a massive understatement. This book is absolutely a must read for any dark romance or thriller fan. I highly recommend it, especially for anyone who’s a part of the booktok/masktok scene
July 14, 2025
I will start by saying that if I didn't know for a fact that this was a debut novel, I would not believe it. It is written with skill and passion.
This book is everything I wanted it to be and so much more. It was dark. It was gory. It was smutty (omg, the smut 🥵).
It kept me guessing. Every time I thought I knew what was happening, it went a completely different direction.
And the epilogues! What is real? What's a fantasy? We'll never know, but it wrecked me.
That said, it is not a book for the faint of heart. When I say it is dark, it is DARK, and I strongly encourage reading the trigger warnings and taking them to heart.
In conclusion, I will be adding this to the pile of comfort reads and coming back to it multiple times.
This book is everything I wanted it to be and so much more. It was dark. It was gory. It was smutty (omg, the smut 🥵).
It kept me guessing. Every time I thought I knew what was happening, it went a completely different direction.
And the epilogues! What is real? What's a fantasy? We'll never know, but it wrecked me.
That said, it is not a book for the faint of heart. When I say it is dark, it is DARK, and I strongly encourage reading the trigger warnings and taking them to heart.
In conclusion, I will be adding this to the pile of comfort reads and coming back to it multiple times.
July 15, 2025
Just when I thought I knew dark romance,
Deadly Obsession came along and shattered every expectation.
This book, no, this masterpiece is not for the faint of heart.
It’s raw. Gritty. Had me on the edge of my seat the entire time.
The spice? Off the charts.
The drama? Intense.
The violence? Brutal in the best way.
I was hooked from the first page to the last.
I fell hard for several characters… but none more than Sera and James.
Sera is everything I love in a fierce FMC:
Brave, unflinching, and absolutely unapologetic.
She takes no shit and gives even less.
James? Lord help me.
This Southern soldier might just be the book boyfriend to beat all the rest.
Dangerous, loyal, and heartbreakingly charming.
I thought I knew what I was getting into…
but I’ve read this book twice now and I’m still reeling.
Still trying to pick up the shattered pieces of my brain.
If you’re looking for your next dark romance obsession, look no further.
Deadly Obsession by @GraytonD
Deadly Obsession came along and shattered every expectation.
This book, no, this masterpiece is not for the faint of heart.
It’s raw. Gritty. Had me on the edge of my seat the entire time.
The spice? Off the charts.
The drama? Intense.
The violence? Brutal in the best way.
I was hooked from the first page to the last.
I fell hard for several characters… but none more than Sera and James.
Sera is everything I love in a fierce FMC:
Brave, unflinching, and absolutely unapologetic.
She takes no shit and gives even less.
James? Lord help me.
This Southern soldier might just be the book boyfriend to beat all the rest.
Dangerous, loyal, and heartbreakingly charming.
I thought I knew what I was getting into…
but I’ve read this book twice now and I’m still reeling.
Still trying to pick up the shattered pieces of my brain.
If you’re looking for your next dark romance obsession, look no further.
Deadly Obsession by @GraytonD
July 18, 2025
Imma start this by saying: THAT ENDING!!!
Oh boy, I need more. Like I want so much more of James and Sera. I need to know how and why. Was I going through something reading this book? Because damn. Grayton D. gave me so much yet I wanted more and I need more. The first time James said those three little words, when people started going missing. I got Scream vibes so hard and I was LOVING every minute of it!!
Oh boy, I need more. Like I want so much more of James and Sera. I need to know how and why. Was I going through something reading this book? Because damn. Grayton D. gave me so much yet I wanted more and I need more. The first time James said those three little words, when people started going missing. I got Scream vibes so hard and I was LOVING every minute of it!!
July 18, 2025
Deadly Obsession is one of those books that stays with you long after you’ve read the last page. And what a last few pages they were!!! I honestly reread them to make sure I wasn’t missing anything, and was left even more twisted up and emotionally unwell! So job well done Grayton D.!!!
Honestly, this book is fantastic. If you didn’t know up front this was a debut novel, you’d never be able to tell. Everything about this book, from the writing to the character development, to even the smut, reads like it’s from a seasoned author. And speaking of the smut, there was none of the awkward, cringy descriptions that we all have unfortunately read from some (not all) male authors writing.
I was hooked on this book from the very first page. It seemed like every time I thought I was getting a handle on what was going on, things took a turn and I was right back to guessing again. He did such a great job with scene and character descriptions that it felt like you were right there in the cabin along with all of them. I really loved Sera as the FMC…she was strong and resilient, and that really showed throughout the book. And James…what can I say about our tall, tattooed, ex military, dominant MMC without giving any of the story away? Hmmm, maybe I’ll just leave it at that lol!! ;)
This book is dark, brutal, gory, psychological, sexy and not for the faint of heart. But if you are a fan of dark romance/thriller romance, and you look at trigger warnings as a menu, then this book is a MUST read. Grayton D. knocked this out of the park. And I’m so excited to see what he does next!
Honestly, this book is fantastic. If you didn’t know up front this was a debut novel, you’d never be able to tell. Everything about this book, from the writing to the character development, to even the smut, reads like it’s from a seasoned author. And speaking of the smut, there was none of the awkward, cringy descriptions that we all have unfortunately read from some (not all) male authors writing.
I was hooked on this book from the very first page. It seemed like every time I thought I was getting a handle on what was going on, things took a turn and I was right back to guessing again. He did such a great job with scene and character descriptions that it felt like you were right there in the cabin along with all of them. I really loved Sera as the FMC…she was strong and resilient, and that really showed throughout the book. And James…what can I say about our tall, tattooed, ex military, dominant MMC without giving any of the story away? Hmmm, maybe I’ll just leave it at that lol!! ;)
This book is dark, brutal, gory, psychological, sexy and not for the faint of heart. But if you are a fan of dark romance/thriller romance, and you look at trigger warnings as a menu, then this book is a MUST read. Grayton D. knocked this out of the park. And I’m so excited to see what he does next!
July 19, 2025
“What really is happily ever after?”
Debut novel from masked content creator Grayton D, Deadly Obsession, is the type of book that will grab you by the throat from page one and won’t release you until the end, even though you will be begging for more. This stalker dark romance book combines two of my favorite pastimes: spicy books and slasher movies, providing plenty of both, and not skimping on the details.
I’m not a fan of multiple POV, but Grayton does it in such a smooth fashion and transitions from the POVs that it doesn’t take away from the story.
His descriptive writing helps you build the world where this cabin in the wood is real, from the sound of the rusty cogs in the grandfather clock to the sound blood makes as it splashes on the ground.
The spice was spicing and the gore was enough to make you squirm in your seats while simultaneously begging for more, and when he combined the two, I couldn’t put the book down. If it wasn’t for the fact that I knew who wrote the book going in, I would have thought a woman wrote this, especially since those open door scenes were everything I wanted to read.
This is easily a five star read, not because of the writing style, but because Grayton gives you characters you fall in love with, gore to satisfy the bloodlust in you and a plot twist that will blow your mind. This book will be added to my small display of shelf trophies and I predict Mustang will be joining the list of book boyfriends on both BookTok and Bookstagram.
Debut novel from masked content creator Grayton D, Deadly Obsession, is the type of book that will grab you by the throat from page one and won’t release you until the end, even though you will be begging for more. This stalker dark romance book combines two of my favorite pastimes: spicy books and slasher movies, providing plenty of both, and not skimping on the details.
I’m not a fan of multiple POV, but Grayton does it in such a smooth fashion and transitions from the POVs that it doesn’t take away from the story.
His descriptive writing helps you build the world where this cabin in the wood is real, from the sound of the rusty cogs in the grandfather clock to the sound blood makes as it splashes on the ground.
The spice was spicing and the gore was enough to make you squirm in your seats while simultaneously begging for more, and when he combined the two, I couldn’t put the book down. If it wasn’t for the fact that I knew who wrote the book going in, I would have thought a woman wrote this, especially since those open door scenes were everything I wanted to read.
This is easily a five star read, not because of the writing style, but because Grayton gives you characters you fall in love with, gore to satisfy the bloodlust in you and a plot twist that will blow your mind. This book will be added to my small display of shelf trophies and I predict Mustang will be joining the list of book boyfriends on both BookTok and Bookstagram.
July 27, 2025
This book had me in a whirlwind the entire time I read it! The story follows James and Sera, along with their group of influencer/masktok friends from all over the world, as they meet in a cabin for the first time outside of Discord and TikTok, which itself sounds like fun right? Well, a surprise guest throws everything off and changes their lives forever. It's sexy and spicy, just as much as it's gut-wrenching and shocking! Grayton took, "What really is happily ever after?" to the next level with his book. The ending has me in a choke hold and wanting more... so much more!
For an indie author, this is truly an amazing debut book. 10/10 recommend for anyone who's into dark/psychological thriller romance!
For an indie author, this is truly an amazing debut book. 10/10 recommend for anyone who's into dark/psychological thriller romance!
July 21, 2025
Had the time of my life reading this book. It takes a lot to surprise my overactive and imaginative mind but Grayton managed to do just that. Not to mention this was a debut novel! Do I know how I feel about that ending yet? Nope 😂 all I know is that I enjoyed every moment of this book.
Sera and James are both from the Mask-Tok world. A discord server brought their whole friend group together to a remote location for good times and fun content. Sera and James had an instant connection online and it definitely showed from their first night together.
Sera is our MFC from England who escaped from her abusive ex and is working so hard to provide a better life for her and her son.
James is our MMC cowboy/Marine Corps veteran with the skills and knowledge to handle just about anything.
When the friend group decided on a meet up, the last thing any of them expected was to fight for their lives. The vibes felt like the classical slasher films where you wanna scream at people not to go somewhere alone but also wanna see how it plays out. I had so many theories running through my mind the entire time I was reading. The gore was fantastic, the spice level was off the charts and the psychological tailspin was thrilling.
Definitely give this one a read!
Sera and James are both from the Mask-Tok world. A discord server brought their whole friend group together to a remote location for good times and fun content. Sera and James had an instant connection online and it definitely showed from their first night together.
Sera is our MFC from England who escaped from her abusive ex and is working so hard to provide a better life for her and her son.
James is our MMC cowboy/Marine Corps veteran with the skills and knowledge to handle just about anything.
When the friend group decided on a meet up, the last thing any of them expected was to fight for their lives. The vibes felt like the classical slasher films where you wanna scream at people not to go somewhere alone but also wanna see how it plays out. I had so many theories running through my mind the entire time I was reading. The gore was fantastic, the spice level was off the charts and the psychological tailspin was thrilling.
Definitely give this one a read!
July 18, 2025
This book is a combination of a dark erotica & a homage to those fabulous horror movies of the ‘90’s. The story lures you in with all the classic characteristics of a good dark romance, for who can resist the tease of a masked man on the hunt? But then the fun really starts!
When a group of content creators finally meet up in person after developing an online friendship, two discover something more than just friendship. But all eight of them find out just how ruthless the trip will ultimately become as their number gradually decreases in spectacular fashion.
A very impressive debut from Grayton D! The book is intense with a fair bit of gore & the perfect amount of spice. BUT & this is something I have to commend the author for because I did not see it coming… the plot twist!!! Oh my days, it is absolutely epic!! So, horror lovers, dark romance fans & readers who like to be surprised, this is definitely one for you!! Highly recommend!
Oh, & for those of you wondering about a male author writing smut, he hits it perfectly 👍😉
When a group of content creators finally meet up in person after developing an online friendship, two discover something more than just friendship. But all eight of them find out just how ruthless the trip will ultimately become as their number gradually decreases in spectacular fashion.
A very impressive debut from Grayton D! The book is intense with a fair bit of gore & the perfect amount of spice. BUT & this is something I have to commend the author for because I did not see it coming… the plot twist!!! Oh my days, it is absolutely epic!! So, horror lovers, dark romance fans & readers who like to be surprised, this is definitely one for you!! Highly recommend!
Oh, & for those of you wondering about a male author writing smut, he hits it perfectly 👍😉
July 23, 2025
I loved, loved, loved this!!! The warnings of being a stalker, dark romance, slasher read did not disappoint!!! I could not put this book down! Loved the darkness and well, I loved everything about this book!
July 28, 2025
I'm going to be completely honest, I had absolutely no idea what to expect from this book having little to no insight to the inner workings that is Grayton D's creative mind. I mean I have read dark romance, and I have watched countless horror movies especially slashers as horror is my absolute favorite genre. But this book... a dark slasher romance? Phenomenal from beginning to end.
I have never read a dark slasher romance but dayum! The dedication should've been my first clue that this book was meant for horror lovers like me, especially if they read dark romance.
The story picks up almost immediately and in true slasher fashion, in a short period of time the number of victims increase. A line from the TV series "Scream" comes to mind: "Slasher movies burn bright and fast... by the time the first body is found, it's only a matter of time before the bloodbath commences." Grayton D captures this classic principal of slashers brilliantly by providing a timestamp that allows readers to gauge what is happening when as well as providing a variety of character point-of-views. This variety in POV acts as a mirror to the cinematic principles of watching the victims in a slasher film. In films, you watch as an outsider, as a victim is lured, tricked, and completely unaware of their impending doom as you watch the slasher creep behind trees or emerging from the victim's closet. Grayton D manages to capture the tension of these scenes in words allowing a glimpse into each victim's psyche, who they truly are, where their concerns lie, and what they perceive of the other characters. What is most captivating is he manages to depict the final moments and thoughts of the victims in a way I have not seen before. Capturing the shock, the disbelief, the delay in the mind grasping what is or has happened. In films, you only watch but because this is a book, Grayton D has given the reader a unique lens into everyone we come into contact with.
I will say that this book is different than the ones I've read before in a fantastic way. The male protagonist is not some mafia bad boy, or assassin, or something over the top. In a way, these characters seem more real, authentic. You can truly imagine them walking around. With that being said, this book is filled with allusions to the current climate surrounding social media with mentions of TikTok, Snapchat, and Discord. What is expressed in this book acts as a uniquely creative homage to BookTok and MaskTok.
Lastly, I want to comment on the romance aspect. There is plenty of spice but it isn't coming off negatively (aka it isn't just smut for the purpose of "sex sells"). There is a deep intimate connection amongst Sera and James that Grayton D pours directly into your heart as you read.
Spoiler-ish: I swear every dark romance book I have read so far tells me the authors are allergic to happiness!!! Phenomenal book but I am going to need someone to pay for my therapy. I can't keep crying over fictional characters.
I have never read a dark slasher romance but dayum! The dedication should've been my first clue that this book was meant for horror lovers like me, especially if they read dark romance.
The story picks up almost immediately and in true slasher fashion, in a short period of time the number of victims increase. A line from the TV series "Scream" comes to mind: "Slasher movies burn bright and fast... by the time the first body is found, it's only a matter of time before the bloodbath commences." Grayton D captures this classic principal of slashers brilliantly by providing a timestamp that allows readers to gauge what is happening when as well as providing a variety of character point-of-views. This variety in POV acts as a mirror to the cinematic principles of watching the victims in a slasher film. In films, you watch as an outsider, as a victim is lured, tricked, and completely unaware of their impending doom as you watch the slasher creep behind trees or emerging from the victim's closet. Grayton D manages to capture the tension of these scenes in words allowing a glimpse into each victim's psyche, who they truly are, where their concerns lie, and what they perceive of the other characters. What is most captivating is he manages to depict the final moments and thoughts of the victims in a way I have not seen before. Capturing the shock, the disbelief, the delay in the mind grasping what is or has happened. In films, you only watch but because this is a book, Grayton D has given the reader a unique lens into everyone we come into contact with.
I will say that this book is different than the ones I've read before in a fantastic way. The male protagonist is not some mafia bad boy, or assassin, or something over the top. In a way, these characters seem more real, authentic. You can truly imagine them walking around. With that being said, this book is filled with allusions to the current climate surrounding social media with mentions of TikTok, Snapchat, and Discord. What is expressed in this book acts as a uniquely creative homage to BookTok and MaskTok.
Lastly, I want to comment on the romance aspect. There is plenty of spice but it isn't coming off negatively (aka it isn't just smut for the purpose of "sex sells"). There is a deep intimate connection amongst Sera and James that Grayton D pours directly into your heart as you read.
Spoiler-ish: I swear every dark romance book I have read so far tells me the authors are allergic to happiness!!! Phenomenal book but I am going to need someone to pay for my therapy. I can't keep crying over fictional characters.
July 27, 2025
Looking for something dark with Cabin in the Woods vibes? Then this is the book for you!
Grayton's debut novel, is that and so much more!
I'm obsessed (although not the deadly kind) with this story.
Deadly Obsession takes you on a dream vacation, one where you can live out your ideals of combining booktok and masktok... Well... Until something happens that's not so dreamy...
With twists and turns you will think you know who everyone is, but they aren't all who they say they are.
Oh and the spice is spicy!
Grayton's debut novel, is that and so much more!
I'm obsessed (although not the deadly kind) with this story.
Deadly Obsession takes you on a dream vacation, one where you can live out your ideals of combining booktok and masktok... Well... Until something happens that's not so dreamy...
With twists and turns you will think you know who everyone is, but they aren't all who they say they are.
Oh and the spice is spicy!
July 21, 2025
It is honestly hard to believe that this is a debut novel. It's well-written, has excellent pacing, and the descriptions were probably a little much at times, if I'm being 100% honest. This was the perfect blend of descriptive and suggestive writing, providing enough details when necessary while still leaving blanks for the brain to fill in.
"Deadly Obsession" follows the FMC, Sera, who has managed to escape and divorce her abusive husband, saving both herself and her child. She's a Booktoker and Masktoker who loves Dark Romance, and finds a wonderful, supportive community that includes the MMC, James. Members of their Discord server plan a vacation to meet each other and film some content. But, when they meet up, things begin to go horribly awry. Absolutely living up to the promise of delivering 90's slasher vibes, people begin to go missing, and the vivid, gruesome descriptions are enough to turn even the strongest stomachs at least a little. As I am not lucky enough to possess a strong stomach, and I also have an extremely overactive imagination, there were times where I needed a brief pause to just breathe.
Sera is an FMC that I related to, much more than I thought I would. As a mom in her 30's, I identified with many of Sera's struggles, even just the little urges she has to text and send little good night video messages to her parents for her son while she's away. Having an FMC in her 30's with a child is a refreshing change of pace from the normal 20-something FMCs. Sera is independent and strong, but also willing to submit to James (because he knows how to take control and when to yield it), and her curiosity and willingness to explore herself were things that I recognized in myself, which made it all the easier to love her. Not that it was much of a struggle, honestly. Sera is super lovable!
James is the MMC every FMC in a dark romance novel deserves. He's attentive and obsessed with Sera, the perfect blend of possessive and protective, but he's also willing to let her explore herself and hand over control. Better yet, he knows when Sera needs him to hand over control, and is more than happy to do so.
The book also highlights many issues that are constantly assaulting the online space, especially the bookish spaces, mostly in the form of people who are being fake to just rake in views, which I really loved. There were several different types of creators in the book who were just in the game for attention, and I loved how it was all kind of brought to light as the book progressed.
The book was wild, gory, and unhinged in all of the best possible ways. I questioned both my morals and my sanity more than once, and enjoyed every second of it. The description of Dark Slasher Romance is 100% accurate, so tread with caution, and maybe check the menu...I mean, content warnings, just to be sure you're ready for it!
I highly recommend this book, especially to those NOT new to Dark Romance, who are looking for something darker and/or more gruesome. If you are obsessed with movies like Scream and Friday the 13th, and you have a thing for masked men, then this is a book you do not want to miss!
"Deadly Obsession" follows the FMC, Sera, who has managed to escape and divorce her abusive husband, saving both herself and her child. She's a Booktoker and Masktoker who loves Dark Romance, and finds a wonderful, supportive community that includes the MMC, James. Members of their Discord server plan a vacation to meet each other and film some content. But, when they meet up, things begin to go horribly awry. Absolutely living up to the promise of delivering 90's slasher vibes, people begin to go missing, and the vivid, gruesome descriptions are enough to turn even the strongest stomachs at least a little. As I am not lucky enough to possess a strong stomach, and I also have an extremely overactive imagination, there were times where I needed a brief pause to just breathe.
Sera is an FMC that I related to, much more than I thought I would. As a mom in her 30's, I identified with many of Sera's struggles, even just the little urges she has to text and send little good night video messages to her parents for her son while she's away. Having an FMC in her 30's with a child is a refreshing change of pace from the normal 20-something FMCs. Sera is independent and strong, but also willing to submit to James (because he knows how to take control and when to yield it), and her curiosity and willingness to explore herself were things that I recognized in myself, which made it all the easier to love her. Not that it was much of a struggle, honestly. Sera is super lovable!
James is the MMC every FMC in a dark romance novel deserves. He's attentive and obsessed with Sera, the perfect blend of possessive and protective, but he's also willing to let her explore herself and hand over control. Better yet, he knows when Sera needs him to hand over control, and is more than happy to do so.
The book also highlights many issues that are constantly assaulting the online space, especially the bookish spaces, mostly in the form of people who are being fake to just rake in views, which I really loved. There were several different types of creators in the book who were just in the game for attention, and I loved how it was all kind of brought to light as the book progressed.
The book was wild, gory, and unhinged in all of the best possible ways. I questioned both my morals and my sanity more than once, and enjoyed every second of it. The description of Dark Slasher Romance is 100% accurate, so tread with caution, and maybe check the menu...I mean, content warnings, just to be sure you're ready for it!
I highly recommend this book, especially to those NOT new to Dark Romance, who are looking for something darker and/or more gruesome. If you are obsessed with movies like Scream and Friday the 13th, and you have a thing for masked men, then this is a book you do not want to miss!
July 24, 2025
Deadly obsession
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Arc review:
A dark slasher romance heavy on the psychological themes with dominance, death, danger and damage.
An incredible read with well thought out and established characters, a story that keeps you fully engaged, wanting more and curious about what daddy will do next.
🐝 D$M themes throughout, 🔪 and 🪓, 🩸 killing, love & lust 🖤
A severely dark romance with MCs that will stay with you after finishing the book. The gore was goring hard and definitely lived up to the classic 90s movie slasher vibes. An all round fantastic read and as a debut novel … amazing. Feel very grateful for the opportunity to have ARC read this book! 📕
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Arc review:
A dark slasher romance heavy on the psychological themes with dominance, death, danger and damage.
An incredible read with well thought out and established characters, a story that keeps you fully engaged, wanting more and curious about what daddy will do next.
🐝 D$M themes throughout, 🔪 and 🪓, 🩸 killing, love & lust 🖤
A severely dark romance with MCs that will stay with you after finishing the book. The gore was goring hard and definitely lived up to the classic 90s movie slasher vibes. An all round fantastic read and as a debut novel … amazing. Feel very grateful for the opportunity to have ARC read this book! 📕
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 4, 2025
If you love Booktok, Masktok, horror movies and endings that make you question everything this is the perfect novel for you! What starts out as a fun meet up for Masktok and Booktok friends soon turns deadly. Just when you think you’ve got it figured out BAM you realize you don’t. Follow James and Sera on this wild journey that is a Deadly Obsession. Want to know what I mean? Read it!
As a dark romance reader and horror movie lover I was hooked from the beginning. This novel has the perfect balance of spice and suspense to keep you guessing. This novel is not written nor does it read like a debut novel. There are not many male authors that can accomplish what Grayton D. has being a dark romance slasher novel.
As a follower it’s been a privilege to see Grayton D. Go from influencer, to narrator and now to author.
As a dark romance reader and horror movie lover I was hooked from the beginning. This novel has the perfect balance of spice and suspense to keep you guessing. This novel is not written nor does it read like a debut novel. There are not many male authors that can accomplish what Grayton D. has being a dark romance slasher novel.
As a follower it’s been a privilege to see Grayton D. Go from influencer, to narrator and now to author.
August 3, 2025
I really hate that it took me this long to read this FABULOUS and dark book. I mean it was a great read for a debut novel...I highly recommend it but check you trigger warnings first. Right from the beginning you are thrown into the world of book lovers and boy was the spice spicing and this girl is not complaining. This read is not for everyone as it is pretty dark but this girl had no issues devouring it in one sitting. Don't go into this thinking it's just some weekend away with other book lovers, not knowing that it will ruin you in one sitting. I still can't get over it and I don't think I ever will. My mind was blown with this book and I can't wait to see what Grayton has next for us dark book lovers!!!
July 29, 2025
Oh. My. Word
Speechless. That ending?! THAT ENDING..
If you love a slasher, stalker romance this is 1,000% FOR YOU.
This book follows a bunch of influencers to FINALLY have an in-person meet up in a remote cabin.
You get to meet the wickedly badass Sera aka Harps who's had to deal with a psycho ex. You meet James aka Mustang and learn all his sexy, badass ways.
You also get to meet, Brian, Lola, Danielle, Jade and Robert and get to witness their group dynamic.
7 friends make it up the mountain, but how many actually make it down? And WHO is getting rid of them??
Speechless. That ending?! THAT ENDING..
If you love a slasher, stalker romance this is 1,000% FOR YOU.
This book follows a bunch of influencers to FINALLY have an in-person meet up in a remote cabin.
You get to meet the wickedly badass Sera aka Harps who's had to deal with a psycho ex. You meet James aka Mustang and learn all his sexy, badass ways.
You also get to meet, Brian, Lola, Danielle, Jade and Robert and get to witness their group dynamic.
7 friends make it up the mountain, but how many actually make it down? And WHO is getting rid of them??
August 11, 2025
I’m astounded that this is a debut novel as this certainly doesn’t read as one!
I absolutely ate this up. Deadly Obsession is fast paced with all the drama that surrounds booktok/ masktok, the spice which was spicing and g0re scenes that had me squirming.
The detail in this book allowed me to picture the scenes unfold in my mind. I could visualize every detail as if it were happening in front of me and was able to replay the scenes with perfect clarity.
I can’t help but fall in love with Sera and James’s story. Both of them have their own kind of strength and are strong, just in ways that reflect who they are.
This book was dark and definitely had elements of an old slasher horror movie which makes my lil black heart happy! I want more please and thank you!!! Will definitely be rereading this book!
I absolutely ate this up. Deadly Obsession is fast paced with all the drama that surrounds booktok/ masktok, the spice which was spicing and g0re scenes that had me squirming.
The detail in this book allowed me to picture the scenes unfold in my mind. I could visualize every detail as if it were happening in front of me and was able to replay the scenes with perfect clarity.
I can’t help but fall in love with Sera and James’s story. Both of them have their own kind of strength and are strong, just in ways that reflect who they are.
This book was dark and definitely had elements of an old slasher horror movie which makes my lil black heart happy! I want more please and thank you!!! Will definitely be rereading this book!
August 4, 2025
So soo good!
I've been needing a real proper dark romance for a while and Deadly Obsession has sated that hunger! Add in the fact we have a cowboy MMC in a dark stalker slasher romance, when I tell you I ran for this book, I ran. It did not disappoint!
I've been needing a real proper dark romance for a while and Deadly Obsession has sated that hunger! Add in the fact we have a cowboy MMC in a dark stalker slasher romance, when I tell you I ran for this book, I ran. It did not disappoint!
August 7, 2025
Better than expected
I am just starting my dive into dark romance. This….this one hit hard. There were so many things to draw from. I am honestly at a loss for words on how feral I was for this book. I could not put it down.
I am just starting my dive into dark romance. This….this one hit hard. There were so many things to draw from. I am honestly at a loss for words on how feral I was for this book. I could not put it down.
August 8, 2025
wow
I don’t even know how to describe what I feel about this book. It was enticing among other things. It’s all and all great. The mystery the romance the gore. I LOVED IT.
I don’t even know how to describe what I feel about this book. It was enticing among other things. It’s all and all great. The mystery the romance the gore. I LOVED IT.
November 14, 2025
amazing page turner!
It only took me a couple of days to ready because it is so good I couldn’t put it down. Every spare minute I had I was reading 😂
It only took me a couple of days to ready because it is so good I couldn’t put it down. Every spare minute I had I was reading 😂
August 12, 2025
Head spinner
This book had me all over the place! My head is spinning 🥴 This story will grab you by the throat & not let go, not till the very end. Wow what a story.
This book had me all over the place! My head is spinning 🥴 This story will grab you by the throat & not let go, not till the very end. Wow what a story.
September 14, 2025
What can go wrong when strangers meet at a cabin for the first time in a slasher book? You guessed it 🔪 🩸
The plot was interesting and read fast-paced. I did not see the twist, yet it was satisfying!
The plot was interesting and read fast-paced. I did not see the twist, yet it was satisfying!
August 29, 2025
As someone who is NOT a huge fan of scary movies, this book was captivating from the very beginning. From that first moment when Sera set foot in that cabin in the California wilderness thinking she was there to hang out with friends, this book grabbed me, held on tight, and didn't let go until the very end. 😁😁😁
August 28, 2025
This book doesn’t read like fiction…it reads like a disturbing projection of real-life cruelty. The way it eroticizes violence and control feels less like imagination and more like confession. The author is busy building an online community as if he’s some daring creator, but readers should question where this “inspiration” really comes from. Nothing about it is empowering, romantic, or original…it’s exploitative, manipulative, and deeply unsettling.
On top of that, it doesn’t even read like human writing. The mechanical style makes it obvious this was churned out by AI rather than genuine creativity.
On top of that, it doesn’t even read like human writing. The mechanical style makes it obvious this was churned out by AI rather than genuine creativity.
October 1, 2025
The ending. THE ending. The ENDING. THE FREAKING ENDING!
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