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Shadows #3
Behind the Shadows
Some of us were born into darkness. Others were shackled.
They drugged me.
Chained me.
Tore apart my mind until the pieces didn’t fit anymore.
Then they gave me a name.
Cleaner. K!ller. Son.
Monster.
Told me the blood on my hands was hers.
Then they smiled and made me k!ll again.
And they told me she never existed.
But I’ve seen her.
In dreams. In flashes of red hair and blood.
And now she’s real—flesh and bone and terrified eyes.
But they made one mistake.
They didn’t bury her deep enough.
Now she’s back.
And even if she doesn’t remember me—
My obsession remembers everything.
She runs. I follow.
She screams. I savor it.
She looks at me like a stranger.
And I try not to laugh.
Because I know her body better than she does.
I’ve watched her sleep. Touched her skin. Marked her without mercy.
And now that I’ve found her again…
There’s no version of this where I let her go.
You don’t have to love me, little ghost.
Lock the door. Scream my name. Run.
I’ve never needed permission to take what’s mine.
**Dear readers, this dark romance contains multiple storylines, and many exciting moving pieces that come together in one satisfying and unexpected HEA. If you enjoy a single storyline, this book might not be for you.
BEHIND THE SHADOWSis Kip and Holland’s story—a standalone pitch-black stalker romance and psychological romantic thriller of obsession, betrayal, and deadly lies. Perfect for readers who crave dark romance with a morally gray antihero, a forbidden captor/captive love story, and a heroine fighting to survive a monster who can’t be saved. No cheating, no third-act breakup, and includes an HEA. Check author’s website for TW/CW.
***While not required, it’s highly recommended to read the duet In the Shadows and Back in the Shadows first.
They drugged me.
Chained me.
Tore apart my mind until the pieces didn’t fit anymore.
Then they gave me a name.
Cleaner. K!ller. Son.
Monster.
Told me the blood on my hands was hers.
Then they smiled and made me k!ll again.
And they told me she never existed.
But I’ve seen her.
In dreams. In flashes of red hair and blood.
And now she’s real—flesh and bone and terrified eyes.
But they made one mistake.
They didn’t bury her deep enough.
Now she’s back.
And even if she doesn’t remember me—
My obsession remembers everything.
She runs. I follow.
She screams. I savor it.
She looks at me like a stranger.
And I try not to laugh.
Because I know her body better than she does.
I’ve watched her sleep. Touched her skin. Marked her without mercy.
And now that I’ve found her again…
There’s no version of this where I let her go.
You don’t have to love me, little ghost.
Lock the door. Scream my name. Run.
I’ve never needed permission to take what’s mine.
**Dear readers, this dark romance contains multiple storylines, and many exciting moving pieces that come together in one satisfying and unexpected HEA. If you enjoy a single storyline, this book might not be for you.
BEHIND THE SHADOWSis Kip and Holland’s story—a standalone pitch-black stalker romance and psychological romantic thriller of obsession, betrayal, and deadly lies. Perfect for readers who crave dark romance with a morally gray antihero, a forbidden captor/captive love story, and a heroine fighting to survive a monster who can’t be saved. No cheating, no third-act breakup, and includes an HEA. Check author’s website for TW/CW.
***While not required, it’s highly recommended to read the duet In the Shadows and Back in the Shadows first.
- GenresDark
ebook
Published October 29, 2025
15 people are currently reading
87 people want to read
About the author
J.A. Owenby
38 books1,017 followersInternational bestselling author J.A. Owenby grew up in a small backwoods town in Arkansas, where she learned how to swear like a sailor and spot water moccasins skimming across the lake.
She finally ditched the south and headed to Oregon. The first winter there, she was literally blown away a few times by ninety-mile-an-hour winds and storms that rolled in off the ocean.
Eventually, she longed for quiet and headed up to snowier pastures. She now resides in Washington state with her hot nerdy husband and cat, Chloe (who frequently encourages her to drink). She spends her days coming up with ways to torture characters in a way that either makes you want to throw your book down a flight of stairs or sob hysterically into a pillow.
J.A. Owenby writes new adult and romantic thriller novels. Her books ooze with emotion, angst, and twists that will leave you breathless. Having battled her own demons, she’s not afraid to tackle the secrets women are forced to hide. After all, the road to love is paved in the dark.
Her friends describe her as delightfully twisted. She loves fan mail and wine. Please send her all the wine.
She finally ditched the south and headed to Oregon. The first winter there, she was literally blown away a few times by ninety-mile-an-hour winds and storms that rolled in off the ocean.
Eventually, she longed for quiet and headed up to snowier pastures. She now resides in Washington state with her hot nerdy husband and cat, Chloe (who frequently encourages her to drink). She spends her days coming up with ways to torture characters in a way that either makes you want to throw your book down a flight of stairs or sob hysterically into a pillow.
J.A. Owenby writes new adult and romantic thriller novels. Her books ooze with emotion, angst, and twists that will leave you breathless. Having battled her own demons, she’s not afraid to tackle the secrets women are forced to hide. After all, the road to love is paved in the dark.
Her friends describe her as delightfully twisted. She loves fan mail and wine. Please send her all the wine.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 165 reviews
November 3, 2025
4.5⭐️
3.5🌶️
🖤Dark Forbidden Romance
🖤Stalker
🖤Touch Her and ☠️
🖤Pitch Black Antihero
🖤Primal Play
🖤Blood Play
🖤Cross Play
🖤Forced Proximity
🖤Who Hurt You?
🖤Hidden Identity
🖤Wounded Hero & Heroine
🖤Dark Devotion
🖤Religious Trauma
🖤Dual First Person POV
Behind the Shadows is a dark, spicy, and psychological trauma heavy romance. Kip is a pitch black antihero who thrives on violence and takes out the evils of the world. He takes care of cleaning up after Death, but that’s not all he does in the shadows. Holland has moved back to Portland after a bad break up. Her ex was getting to close to finding out the truth about her past, but her past has already caught up to her. Kip is shocked to see Holland alive. He becomes obsessed and is unable to think of anything else while he tries to get some answers. Kip inserts himself in Holland’s life by offering her help when her past catches up to her. Poor Kip…he goes through it. He questions his sanity and when he finds out the truth, it’s almost too much for him to handle, but Holland is there for him to help put the pieces together. Holland is a survivor and deadly in her own right. This is a very dark romance with intense psychological horrors and gruesome revenge. Then you add in hot and dirty spice….phew! I am obsessed with this series and I’m impatiently waiting for more and the downfall of the big bad Pied Piper.
Plot: 4.5
Engaging: 5
Character: 5
Thank you to JA Owenby and The Author Agency for the ARC.
📚All thoughts and opinions are my own📚
🐦🔥Follow me on socials @myrisingphoenixera.reads 🐦🔥
A Few Favorite Quotes:
“She had become my obsession, my sole purpose, and I was rapidly losing myself to my new addiction.”
“I did know. Holland was mine. I would kill any motherf*€ker who dared to argue with me or put their hands on her. Touch her? You d!£.”
“The darkness wasn’t just chasing me. It had already climbed into bed, f*€ked me, and whispered my name.”
“I was a man possessed. One minute, I wanted to bury myself in Holland and f*€k her until the sun came up, the next, I wanted to k!ľľ anyone who touched her. Mine.”
‘He stood before me, a masterpiece of strength and artistry. He was a tattooed, muscled god.”
“If she’s breaking, I’ll hold her. If she’s running, I’ll catch her. If I lose her, I’ll burn this world to the ground.”
“Then make me forget there ever was a world before you,” I whispered. “Use me. Break me. Just never stop needing me.”
3.5🌶️
🖤Dark Forbidden Romance
🖤Stalker
🖤Touch Her and ☠️
🖤Pitch Black Antihero
🖤Primal Play
🖤Blood Play
🖤Cross Play
🖤Forced Proximity
🖤Who Hurt You?
🖤Hidden Identity
🖤Wounded Hero & Heroine
🖤Dark Devotion
🖤Religious Trauma
🖤Dual First Person POV
Behind the Shadows is a dark, spicy, and psychological trauma heavy romance. Kip is a pitch black antihero who thrives on violence and takes out the evils of the world. He takes care of cleaning up after Death, but that’s not all he does in the shadows. Holland has moved back to Portland after a bad break up. Her ex was getting to close to finding out the truth about her past, but her past has already caught up to her. Kip is shocked to see Holland alive. He becomes obsessed and is unable to think of anything else while he tries to get some answers. Kip inserts himself in Holland’s life by offering her help when her past catches up to her. Poor Kip…he goes through it. He questions his sanity and when he finds out the truth, it’s almost too much for him to handle, but Holland is there for him to help put the pieces together. Holland is a survivor and deadly in her own right. This is a very dark romance with intense psychological horrors and gruesome revenge. Then you add in hot and dirty spice….phew! I am obsessed with this series and I’m impatiently waiting for more and the downfall of the big bad Pied Piper.
Plot: 4.5
Engaging: 5
Character: 5
Thank you to JA Owenby and The Author Agency for the ARC.
📚All thoughts and opinions are my own📚
🐦🔥Follow me on socials @myrisingphoenixera.reads 🐦🔥
A Few Favorite Quotes:
“She had become my obsession, my sole purpose, and I was rapidly losing myself to my new addiction.”
“I did know. Holland was mine. I would kill any motherf*€ker who dared to argue with me or put their hands on her. Touch her? You d!£.”
“The darkness wasn’t just chasing me. It had already climbed into bed, f*€ked me, and whispered my name.”
“I was a man possessed. One minute, I wanted to bury myself in Holland and f*€k her until the sun came up, the next, I wanted to k!ľľ anyone who touched her. Mine.”
‘He stood before me, a masterpiece of strength and artistry. He was a tattooed, muscled god.”
“If she’s breaking, I’ll hold her. If she’s running, I’ll catch her. If I lose her, I’ll burn this world to the ground.”
“Then make me forget there ever was a world before you,” I whispered. “Use me. Break me. Just never stop needing me.”
October 29, 2025
Holy Canolli! I was not ready for this universe to get even more dark and twisted.
This is book three of the series but the main characters transition from Death and Ella to Kip and Holland. If you read the first two books, this will be hard to believe, but... Kip and Holland's backstory is even more twisted than Dark's and sent me for a loop! The entire time while reading this story, I was trying to solve the puzzle myself but J.A. Owenby was always one step ahead. Rude that you are making me wait for the next book for the justice I am craving but I forgive you because this book was still soooo good!
If you haven't read this series, get on it. If you only read this book and haven't read the first two, you are missing out. J.A. Owenby has created this complex and dynamic storyline that keeps you on your toes and guessing and I love a good book where the author beats me to the punch.
#Stalker Romance
#Serial Unaliver
#Trauma
This is book three of the series but the main characters transition from Death and Ella to Kip and Holland. If you read the first two books, this will be hard to believe, but... Kip and Holland's backstory is even more twisted than Dark's and sent me for a loop! The entire time while reading this story, I was trying to solve the puzzle myself but J.A. Owenby was always one step ahead. Rude that you are making me wait for the next book for the justice I am craving but I forgive you because this book was still soooo good!
If you haven't read this series, get on it. If you only read this book and haven't read the first two, you are missing out. J.A. Owenby has created this complex and dynamic storyline that keeps you on your toes and guessing and I love a good book where the author beats me to the punch.
#Stalker Romance
#Serial Unaliver
#Trauma
October 24, 2025
Dark, twisted, and haunting
4 ⭐️ | 4.25 🌶️
This was my first J.A. Owenby book, and wow: what a wild, emotional ride. Behind the Shadows is the third installment in the Shadows series, and even though I hadn’t read the previous books, I quickly found myself drawn into Owenby’s raw, intense storytelling. It did take me a little while to get used to the darkness woven through the narrative, but once I settled into it, I couldn’t look away.
The story follows Holland (aka Samantha) and Kip, two deeply scarred souls whose pasts are drenched in pain, trauma, and manipulation. Holland’s fight to rebuild her life after unthinkable abuse, and Kip’s struggle to reclaim his humanity after years of being used and broken, form the heart of this book. When their paths cross again, the question isn’t just whether they can love, it’s whether they can survive what love unearths.
Owenby’s writing is visceral and emotional, with an unflinching honesty that makes this dark romance feel painfully real. It’s not an easy read, and it’s not meant to be. Please check the trigger warnings before diving in. Themes of kidnapping, torture, sexual assault, and psychological trauma are front and center, handled with care but depicted in a way that’s meant to shake you.
It’s dark. It’s unhinged. It will mess with your mind, but it also carries a surprising tenderness in the way two broken people find pieces of healing together.
Thank you to Grey’s Promotions for the e-ARC, and congratulations to J.A. Owenby on the release of Behind the Shadows (October 29th).
4 ⭐️ | 4.25 🌶️
This was my first J.A. Owenby book, and wow: what a wild, emotional ride. Behind the Shadows is the third installment in the Shadows series, and even though I hadn’t read the previous books, I quickly found myself drawn into Owenby’s raw, intense storytelling. It did take me a little while to get used to the darkness woven through the narrative, but once I settled into it, I couldn’t look away.
The story follows Holland (aka Samantha) and Kip, two deeply scarred souls whose pasts are drenched in pain, trauma, and manipulation. Holland’s fight to rebuild her life after unthinkable abuse, and Kip’s struggle to reclaim his humanity after years of being used and broken, form the heart of this book. When their paths cross again, the question isn’t just whether they can love, it’s whether they can survive what love unearths.
Owenby’s writing is visceral and emotional, with an unflinching honesty that makes this dark romance feel painfully real. It’s not an easy read, and it’s not meant to be. Please check the trigger warnings before diving in. Themes of kidnapping, torture, sexual assault, and psychological trauma are front and center, handled with care but depicted in a way that’s meant to shake you.
It’s dark. It’s unhinged. It will mess with your mind, but it also carries a surprising tenderness in the way two broken people find pieces of healing together.
Thank you to Grey’s Promotions for the e-ARC, and congratulations to J.A. Owenby on the release of Behind the Shadows (October 29th).
October 22, 2025
"The casket was... empty."
That line gave (and still gives) me absolute chills!! And that was just in the prologue!
I was excited to get to see Kip's story and was not surprised with the darkness inside him, but I was here for it all! Poor Kip has been through things and I wanted to hug him at times.
This is Kip and Holland's story and while this is a standalone, you should absolutely read book 1 and 2 because they are amazing and you see Kip as his friends see him while this book we see the real Kip. I also loved Holland and her strength.
So many things unraveling and just when you think you figured it out, you get hit with new information.
As always J.A. Owenby has trigger warnings, but she tastefully approaches topics that are hard for some. Always on the edge of your seat with her writing and this book is no different!
That line gave (and still gives) me absolute chills!! And that was just in the prologue!
I was excited to get to see Kip's story and was not surprised with the darkness inside him, but I was here for it all! Poor Kip has been through things and I wanted to hug him at times.
This is Kip and Holland's story and while this is a standalone, you should absolutely read book 1 and 2 because they are amazing and you see Kip as his friends see him while this book we see the real Kip. I also loved Holland and her strength.
So many things unraveling and just when you think you figured it out, you get hit with new information.
As always J.A. Owenby has trigger warnings, but she tastefully approaches topics that are hard for some. Always on the edge of your seat with her writing and this book is no different!
October 29, 2025
wow this was an amazing fast paced story. Kip and Holland have a lot of baggage between them, yet they are able to help each other.
thank you to @greyspromotion and @jaowenby for the ARC read. My review is left willingly.
The backstory will have you screaming, crying, and all the emotions that come with a great story.
spice is 3 🌶️🌶️🌶️. Don't miss this story especially if you have read Death/Ella/Sebastian's story.This adds so much to the story and explains what has been going on with Kip from those.
thank you to @greyspromotion and @jaowenby for the ARC read. My review is left willingly.
The backstory will have you screaming, crying, and all the emotions that come with a great story.
spice is 3 🌶️🌶️🌶️. Don't miss this story especially if you have read Death/Ella/Sebastian's story.This adds so much to the story and explains what has been going on with Kip from those.
October 26, 2025
J.A. is one of those auto authors you just have to read.
This one is one you have to read the first two.
This is a story about Kip. AND MAN DOES SHE DO HIM JUSTICE!!!!
Please check your triggers as almost all of J.A.s books are pretty dark. But if you want something deep, thrilling, exciting, fast paced and super sexy, hot and yummy.. Yea this whole series is for you!!!! It's absolutely 5 stars and you will be craving more after every page.
This one is one you have to read the first two.
This is a story about Kip. AND MAN DOES SHE DO HIM JUSTICE!!!!
Please check your triggers as almost all of J.A.s books are pretty dark. But if you want something deep, thrilling, exciting, fast paced and super sexy, hot and yummy.. Yea this whole series is for you!!!! It's absolutely 5 stars and you will be craving more after every page.
October 18, 2025
omg this book had me hooked from the first page! Kips book was amazing! Your heart breaks for Kips back story. So many more secrets are uncovered... I need more and soon.
this is a stand alone but I would highly recommend the you read in the shadows and back in the Shadows first so that you will understand characters and some of the back stories.
this book has everything...
hot, spicy, plot, suspense!
this is a stand alone but I would highly recommend the you read in the shadows and back in the Shadows first so that you will understand characters and some of the back stories.
this book has everything...
hot, spicy, plot, suspense!
October 28, 2025
Behind the Shadows by J. A. Owenby is dark, twisted, and haunting. This book is the third in the Shadows Series and even though I have not read the previous books in the series I still enjoyed every part of this book. Behind the Shadows is the first book I’ve read from J. A. Owenby and I can definitely say that I was impressed and fell in love with her intense was of storytelling.
Behind the Shadows dove deep into trauma, abuse and manipulation and J. A. Owenby presented all of these so well with our main characters. Kip and Holland both have scars that run deep into their childhood and have secrets that are slowly unravelled throughout the book and because of this, it keeps you on your toes the whole entire book.
Kip and Holland have chemistry that is just absolutely insane, it is raw, broken and so beautiful. Kip helps her come to terms with her darker side and Holland helps Kip come to terms with the monster his parents made him into.
The was J. A. Owenby writes is with such raw intensity and makes you feel every single emotion that the characters are portraying. Behind the Shadows is all about the pain in surviving and the fragile beauty in healing and J. A. Owenby done such an amazing job in showing this. If you are after a book layered with emotion, darkness and just absolute raw emotion, check out Behind the Shadows.
Thank you J. A. Owenby and The Author Agency for allowing me to read the ARC version of Behind the Shadows. All thoughts and reviews are of my own.
Behind the Shadows dove deep into trauma, abuse and manipulation and J. A. Owenby presented all of these so well with our main characters. Kip and Holland both have scars that run deep into their childhood and have secrets that are slowly unravelled throughout the book and because of this, it keeps you on your toes the whole entire book.
Kip and Holland have chemistry that is just absolutely insane, it is raw, broken and so beautiful. Kip helps her come to terms with her darker side and Holland helps Kip come to terms with the monster his parents made him into.
The was J. A. Owenby writes is with such raw intensity and makes you feel every single emotion that the characters are portraying. Behind the Shadows is all about the pain in surviving and the fragile beauty in healing and J. A. Owenby done such an amazing job in showing this. If you are after a book layered with emotion, darkness and just absolute raw emotion, check out Behind the Shadows.
Thank you J. A. Owenby and The Author Agency for allowing me to read the ARC version of Behind the Shadows. All thoughts and reviews are of my own.
October 25, 2025
This book was a masterpiece of pitch black romance goodness. This plot had me hooked from start to finish with the most insane storylines and crazy plot twists combined with amazing writing. I’m so happy to see the continuation of The Shadows Series, and like always J A Owenby delivered the best. This book dove deep into trauma, abuse parents and manipulative conditioning. Our mmc Kip is by no means a reliable narrator and the way his point of view is written adds so much tension and terror to the vibes of the book. I don’t want to give too much away but Hollands past is catching up to her and she meets Kip, a hot bar owner but also her masked stalker. But both of them have scars that run deep and secrets that are yet to unravelled. And with every secret that is unveiled in this book I feel myself losing more and more of my sanity. I felt every emotion in the characters and I cried, a lot. Their chemistry is off the charts as they navigate their trauma together. He helps her grow into her darker side and she helps him come to terms with the monster his parents made him. The plot twists were so intensely surprising and twisted my heart at every turn. This book was such an emotional rollercoaster ride and I give it a 4.5/5
October 24, 2025
Holy crap is this book amazing. J. A. Owenby knows pitch black and does it perfectly!! Death, Bash, and Ella are back and it's Kip’s turn. His tortured past has haunted him his entire life and he can no longer ignore his demons once Holland returns to his life. With a past just as dark and twisted, they are quite the match. Facing the past becomes incredibly dangerous for them both but they fight for each other to get answers and redemption. There are so many intricate details woven throughout the story connecting them together and to the previous books. I was so excited to see how everything would play out that I could not set this book down. There were so many wonderful lines but this one got me big time-
“Then make me forget there was ever a world before you,” I whispered. “ Use me. Break me. Just never stop needing me.’
I really hope we get more from this series and soon because I am obsessed and need more!! Dope has some secrets and I really need to see Cami and Ryan again.
“Then make me forget there was ever a world before you,” I whispered. “ Use me. Break me. Just never stop needing me.’
I really hope we get more from this series and soon because I am obsessed and need more!! Dope has some secrets and I really need to see Cami and Ryan again.
October 25, 2025
The third instalment in the Shadows series was a wild, emotional ride. Dark, twisted and filled with intensity from start to finish this story took me multiple days to read because there was so much to take in and process. Kip, the MMC, is alpha, possessive and unhinged. He’s haunted by a violent past but determined to protect others in his own ruthless way. Holland, the FMC, carries her own scars and when their worlds collide, their connection is raw, broken and powerful.
The spice was dark and primal, and boy does Kip know how to use a cross. The heat was high and the emotional depth hit just as hard. My heart broke for both Kip and Holland, who both faced horrors no one should ever have to endure. And let me just say, that bath scene? Traumatic. I was not okay (IYKYK).
If you like your dark romance full of secrets, trauma and redemption, this one’s worth diving into. Just check the trigger warnings first.
The spice was dark and primal, and boy does Kip know how to use a cross. The heat was high and the emotional depth hit just as hard. My heart broke for both Kip and Holland, who both faced horrors no one should ever have to endure. And let me just say, that bath scene? Traumatic. I was not okay (IYKYK).
If you like your dark romance full of secrets, trauma and redemption, this one’s worth diving into. Just check the trigger warnings first.
October 30, 2025
This series, I swear. That's it, that is the whole review. But honestly, I love this series and this book. The lists of content and trigger warnings is ling enough to make your ancestors blush and recoil in horror at the same time. This book like its predecessors is violent and grungy and al around dark. Morals are nonexistent and I love it. This book follows Kip and Holland, two thirty somethings trying to run from a past that won't stay dead. Religious trauma be the biggest heavy hitter in this book, and honestly, these two are entirely justified in their need for revenge. They certainly earned it. Overall, I am obsessed and if you need a dark read with super spice, this one is for you, Absolutely recommend!
October 26, 2025
I received this as an ARC. OMG, J.A. Owenby sure knows how to make a book full of twists and turns that you cannot put down. This was gripping from the beginning. Kip and Holland’s tale is so good. We see our old friends Death and Ella again along with Dope. This does leave you knowing there is definitely going to be another book. I cannot wait! I loved revisiting these character and I’m anxious to see what is next.
October 29, 2025
Book 3 of The Shadow Series, is an MUST read for all that like suspense with a touch of spice and romance! This book grabs on and doesn’t let go! It’s definitely on my top 10 list for the year. J. A. Owenby provided a stellar well written story! Definitely get your copy and add it to TBR.
ARC REVIEW.. spice level 3,5 chilis.
ARC REVIEW.. spice level 3,5 chilis.
October 27, 2025
Just wow! I read this in one day, I couldn’t put it down! I had loved the first duet and was excited to see another connected book coming out. I didn’t realize how much we needed Kips story. It’s a dark romance and definitely check the triggers but oh so good!
Thank you so much to J.A. Owenby and The Author Agency for the Arc of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Thank you so much to J.A. Owenby and The Author Agency for the Arc of this book in exchange for my honest review.
October 28, 2025
☠ “What makes you think I don’t crave every twisted part of you? All of your darkness. Every ounce of your sin?” ♥
To summarize this book in two words: holy shit. I thought I knew what to expect after reading Death & Ella’s duet, but Kip’s story was on an entirely different level. This book was dark, raw, and emotional in ways that completely gutted me: in the best possible way. Sensitive readers should absolutely check the trigger warnings first, because this romance ventures deep into pitch-black territory and touches on several heavy, potentially distressing topics. While it can technically be read as a standalone, I’d still recommend reading Death & Ella’s duet beforehand to fully appreciate the depth of everything that unfolds here.
☠ “Holland had a darkness in her that matched my own, a desire to dance with the devil.” ♥
From the very first page, this story had its hooks in me. I finished the entire thing in half a day because there was simply no chance I was putting it down. Kip’s character was nothing short of phenomenal: one of the best-written MMCs I’ve read in a long time. His constant inner war between guilt and goodness, and his instinct to protect those who couldn’t protect themselves, was heart-wrenching and beautiful. J.A. Owenby laid every single raw emotion bare on the page, and it made me want to reach through the book and just hug him. I didn’t think anyone could top my love for Death, but Kip bulldozed his way straight to the top.
♥ “She might not be mine yet, but I’d made my decision. No one else got to break her.” ☠
The writing itself was exceptional: sharp, emotional, and immersive. Owenby masterfully captured the dual chaos of Kip and Holland’s minds, showing both the jagged edges and the fragile vulnerability underneath. The layers of secrets and deceit in the plot ran deep and kept me guessing the entire time. Every new reveal hit like a punch, leaving me scrambling to piece things together alongside the characters.
☠ “I should run from him. But I needed him like air. Even if he was poison.” ♥
The chemistry between Kip and Holland was electric. Their connection was primal and magnetic, but what I loved most was how real it felt. The spice was scorching hot, but it never overtook the story; it enhanced it, grounding the intensity of their emotional bond. Together, they found the safety, trust, and solace they had both been missing, and it made their relationship all the more powerful.
♥ “She was the only thing that made me feel alive. And I was the only thing that could ruin her completely.” ☠
The pacing was relentless, filled with tension, emotional highs and lows, and twists that left me gasping. Every time I thought I knew what was coming, Owenby threw another curveball. By the end, I was both emotionally drained and completely in awe of what I’d just read. This book was everything I wanted it to be and more: dark, devastating, passionate, and utterly consuming. I refuse to believe this is the last time we’ll see these characters because this world has so much more to give. J.A. Owenby outdid herself with this one.
Stars: 4.5/5 (Rounded Up)
Spice: 4/5
Tropes:
☠ Touch Her & ☠️ ♥
♥ Pitch Black Antihero ☠
☠ Captor x Captive ♥
♥ Who Hurt You? ☠
☠ “Looks like my monster is becoming my savior.” ♥
♥☠♥---ARC Review---☠♥☠
To summarize this book in two words: holy shit. I thought I knew what to expect after reading Death & Ella’s duet, but Kip’s story was on an entirely different level. This book was dark, raw, and emotional in ways that completely gutted me: in the best possible way. Sensitive readers should absolutely check the trigger warnings first, because this romance ventures deep into pitch-black territory and touches on several heavy, potentially distressing topics. While it can technically be read as a standalone, I’d still recommend reading Death & Ella’s duet beforehand to fully appreciate the depth of everything that unfolds here.
☠ “Holland had a darkness in her that matched my own, a desire to dance with the devil.” ♥
From the very first page, this story had its hooks in me. I finished the entire thing in half a day because there was simply no chance I was putting it down. Kip’s character was nothing short of phenomenal: one of the best-written MMCs I’ve read in a long time. His constant inner war between guilt and goodness, and his instinct to protect those who couldn’t protect themselves, was heart-wrenching and beautiful. J.A. Owenby laid every single raw emotion bare on the page, and it made me want to reach through the book and just hug him. I didn’t think anyone could top my love for Death, but Kip bulldozed his way straight to the top.
♥ “She might not be mine yet, but I’d made my decision. No one else got to break her.” ☠
The writing itself was exceptional: sharp, emotional, and immersive. Owenby masterfully captured the dual chaos of Kip and Holland’s minds, showing both the jagged edges and the fragile vulnerability underneath. The layers of secrets and deceit in the plot ran deep and kept me guessing the entire time. Every new reveal hit like a punch, leaving me scrambling to piece things together alongside the characters.
☠ “I should run from him. But I needed him like air. Even if he was poison.” ♥
The chemistry between Kip and Holland was electric. Their connection was primal and magnetic, but what I loved most was how real it felt. The spice was scorching hot, but it never overtook the story; it enhanced it, grounding the intensity of their emotional bond. Together, they found the safety, trust, and solace they had both been missing, and it made their relationship all the more powerful.
♥ “She was the only thing that made me feel alive. And I was the only thing that could ruin her completely.” ☠
The pacing was relentless, filled with tension, emotional highs and lows, and twists that left me gasping. Every time I thought I knew what was coming, Owenby threw another curveball. By the end, I was both emotionally drained and completely in awe of what I’d just read. This book was everything I wanted it to be and more: dark, devastating, passionate, and utterly consuming. I refuse to believe this is the last time we’ll see these characters because this world has so much more to give. J.A. Owenby outdid herself with this one.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Stars: 4.5/5 (Rounded Up)
Spice: 4/5
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Tropes:
☠ Touch Her & ☠️ ♥
♥ Pitch Black Antihero ☠
☠ Captor x Captive ♥
♥ Who Hurt You? ☠
☠ “Looks like my monster is becoming my savior.” ♥
October 31, 2025
If you thought that Bas and Ella's story was dark and twisted think again because Kip and Holland will blow your minds. Behind the Shadows is addictively thrilling and mind-blowing with constant plot twists ; the suspense is sky high and the level of the secrets and the connections between the characters is going insane. Because Pied Piper is everywhere and with invisible connections to everyone in so many unexpected ways. So the plot is thickening and the suspense is escalating. And you need to take notes while reading because at one point you can't wrap your mind around what you're reading and keep up with what you already know. Because Kip and Holland's story is one big mind game . And now all the breadcrumbs that J. A. Owenby left behind about Kip finally started to make sense. Kip's broken and put back together in a twisted way that messes with him big time. But when he sees a ghost from his past that mess defies everything he knew about his past or thought so . Holland is someone who rebuilt her life after a crushing and excruciating experience from her past . A past that still haunts her and didn't want to stay there. When Kip puts himself in her life to find answers all the secrets start to unravel and the truth is more shocking than ever. And if you thought that Bas and Ella had insane chemistry think again. Because Kip and Holland are steaming hot together and will overheat your Kindles. Prepare yourself for mind games, constant plot twists and unexpected revelations. The hints for the next story are already planted and I can't wait to see what happens next in Dope's story. And I know it'll be an insane one. And I'm good that I can't guess anything while reading and let the story lead the way and this in my opinion is a good storytelling at its best.
Thanks to the author and The Author Agency for the opportunity to read and review an early copy of this book.
Thanks to the author and The Author Agency for the opportunity to read and review an early copy of this book.
November 3, 2025
4.75 ⭐️ 4 🌶️
📖Pages: 406
🗓Release: 10.29.25
MCs: holland ♡ kip
If she's breaking, I'll hold her. If she's running, I'll catch her. If I lose her, I'll burn this world to the ground .
💭 juz when i thought the shadows series cant get any better...i was wrong!! this book is like a sweet embrace to my dark romance lovin' heart!! kip & holland's story was epic!! their pairing was genius!! there could not have been a more perfect couple to get thru what they went thru & handle the aftermath together!! & in the most JAO fashion...the twists😘🤌🏽 every chapter was written in a way that made me wanna shake/grip my kindle tighter, wanna chuck it, pull my hair, bite my nails, hang at the edge of my seat juz to find out the answer to the mystery!! all i have are praises!! but MAAAM !! idk how to survive this hfn ending!! ima need the nxt installment STAT !!
" Make me forget there ever was a world before you "
✨ related to The Shadows Series with interconnected characters but can be read as a standalone
dark stalkr romance | romantic thriller | touch her & ☠️ | forced proximity | who hurt u? | religious trauma | found fam | dubcon/noncon | praise/deg | o/p mmc | captıvıty | human🚦| somno | 🩸🔪✝️primal play
✨ thankU JA Owenby & The Author Agency for this compelling eARC🔥
‼️ ur mental health matters. ✔️🆃🆆/🅲🆆
📖Pages: 406
🗓Release: 10.29.25
MCs: holland ♡ kip
If she's breaking, I'll hold her. If she's running, I'll catch her. If I lose her, I'll burn this world to the ground .
💭 juz when i thought the shadows series cant get any better...i was wrong!! this book is like a sweet embrace to my dark romance lovin' heart!! kip & holland's story was epic!! their pairing was genius!! there could not have been a more perfect couple to get thru what they went thru & handle the aftermath together!! & in the most JAO fashion...the twists😘🤌🏽 every chapter was written in a way that made me wanna shake/grip my kindle tighter, wanna chuck it, pull my hair, bite my nails, hang at the edge of my seat juz to find out the answer to the mystery!! all i have are praises!! but MAAAM !! idk how to survive this hfn ending!! ima need the nxt installment STAT !!
" Make me forget there ever was a world before you "
✨ related to The Shadows Series with interconnected characters but can be read as a standalone
dark stalkr romance | romantic thriller | touch her & ☠️ | forced proximity | who hurt u? | religious trauma | found fam | dubcon/noncon | praise/deg | o/p mmc | captıvıty | human🚦| somno | 🩸🔪✝️primal play
✨ thankU JA Owenby & The Author Agency for this compelling eARC🔥
‼️ ur mental health matters. ✔️🆃🆆/🅲🆆
October 26, 2025
✦ 𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 - 4✨
✦ 𝐑𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐞 - Oct 29, 2025
✦ 𝐓𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐬 -
• dark psychological romance
• damaged hero
• trauma healing
• redemption arc
• morally grey mmc
• survivor fmc
• emotional slow burn
• protector vibe
✦ 𝐌𝐲 𝐓𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬 -
Behind the Shadows is a dark and haunting journey through pain, survival, and the fragile beauty of healing. It follows Kip, a man living in the wreckage of his past, and Holland, a woman who carries invisible scars from a world that tried to destroy her. Their connection is built from shadows and silence, and it feels heavy in the best way.
The author writes with such raw intensity that every page pulls you deeper. Kip’s internal battle, his guilt, and the way he still protects what’s left of the good in him made me feel everything. Holland’s quiet strength and resilience are stunning. Together, they show that love doesn’t have to be perfect to feel real.
This book is layered with emotion, darkness, and the faintest flicker of hope. It isn’t an easy story, but it’s powerful in a way that stays with you long after the last page. The writing is beautifully gritty, the emotions raw, and the ending felt like a soft exhale after all the storm.
A story about broken souls finding a little light in their ruins.
Thank you so much the author agency for the free ARC! 🤍
✦ 𝐑𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐞 - Oct 29, 2025
✦ 𝐓𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐬 -
• dark psychological romance
• damaged hero
• trauma healing
• redemption arc
• morally grey mmc
• survivor fmc
• emotional slow burn
• protector vibe
✦ 𝐌𝐲 𝐓𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬 -
Behind the Shadows is a dark and haunting journey through pain, survival, and the fragile beauty of healing. It follows Kip, a man living in the wreckage of his past, and Holland, a woman who carries invisible scars from a world that tried to destroy her. Their connection is built from shadows and silence, and it feels heavy in the best way.
The author writes with such raw intensity that every page pulls you deeper. Kip’s internal battle, his guilt, and the way he still protects what’s left of the good in him made me feel everything. Holland’s quiet strength and resilience are stunning. Together, they show that love doesn’t have to be perfect to feel real.
This book is layered with emotion, darkness, and the faintest flicker of hope. It isn’t an easy story, but it’s powerful in a way that stays with you long after the last page. The writing is beautifully gritty, the emotions raw, and the ending felt like a soft exhale after all the storm.
A story about broken souls finding a little light in their ruins.
Thank you so much the author agency for the free ARC! 🤍
October 26, 2025
Wow, this book was so dark and twisted.
I didn’t know much about this book other than it would be very dark, which happens to be my kind of book so I jumped at the chance to read it. It did not disappoint.
Behind the Shadows is a dark/pitch black, stalker, masked man, captor/captive, antihero, psychological thriller romance.
This is the first book of J.A Owenby I’ve read and it won’t be the last. Behind the Shadows is a standalone and I 100% enjoyed it as such BUT, I would suggest reading In the Shadows and Back in the Shadows first. I haven’t and it made me realise I would have had a few more gaps filled in if I had read the other two first. I also loved this book so I will definitely be reading both of them before the next book comes out.
The characters, Kip and Holland were brilliant, both so broken having gone through some very traumatic things, but healing as they came together. I’m glad their story isn’t over yet!
Given that it’s a thriller, I don’t want to give the plot away but it does include religious trauma, abuse and trafficking. It’s also pretty spicy and has some noncon/dubcon scenes. As this book is so dark you need to read the TW/CWs before going in, there is lots of things that might not be for everyone but I loved it.
5/5⭐️
4/5🌶️
I didn’t know much about this book other than it would be very dark, which happens to be my kind of book so I jumped at the chance to read it. It did not disappoint.
Behind the Shadows is a dark/pitch black, stalker, masked man, captor/captive, antihero, psychological thriller romance.
This is the first book of J.A Owenby I’ve read and it won’t be the last. Behind the Shadows is a standalone and I 100% enjoyed it as such BUT, I would suggest reading In the Shadows and Back in the Shadows first. I haven’t and it made me realise I would have had a few more gaps filled in if I had read the other two first. I also loved this book so I will definitely be reading both of them before the next book comes out.
The characters, Kip and Holland were brilliant, both so broken having gone through some very traumatic things, but healing as they came together. I’m glad their story isn’t over yet!
Given that it’s a thriller, I don’t want to give the plot away but it does include religious trauma, abuse and trafficking. It’s also pretty spicy and has some noncon/dubcon scenes. As this book is so dark you need to read the TW/CWs before going in, there is lots of things that might not be for everyone but I loved it.
5/5⭐️
4/5🌶️
October 28, 2025
**ARC REVIEW**
Behind the Shadows is a brilliantly written dark romance that gripped me from the very first page. The suspense, drama, secrets, and betrayals kept me on the edge of my seat—gasping for air and turning the pages late into the night. I loved this unhinged, dark, and emotionally raw story filled with twists and turns I didn’t see coming.
Kip and Holland are both broken, shattered, and haunted by their pasts—their pain, abuse, and manipulation made my heart ache. Their childhood backstories are devastating, yet their strength and determination shine through every page. Their chemistry is dark, intense, and electric. The spice is hot, dangerous, and deliciously twisted. The tension and banter between them are perfectly balanced with the raw emotion and psychological depth of the story.
I highly recommend this book to readers who love pitch-black romance, morally gray antiheroes, and psychological thrillers that push boundaries.
⚠️ Please check the content and trigger warnings before reading—this story is not for the faint of heart.
Thank you to J.A. Owenby and Grey’s Promotions for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Behind the Shadows is a brilliantly written dark romance that gripped me from the very first page. The suspense, drama, secrets, and betrayals kept me on the edge of my seat—gasping for air and turning the pages late into the night. I loved this unhinged, dark, and emotionally raw story filled with twists and turns I didn’t see coming.
Kip and Holland are both broken, shattered, and haunted by their pasts—their pain, abuse, and manipulation made my heart ache. Their childhood backstories are devastating, yet their strength and determination shine through every page. Their chemistry is dark, intense, and electric. The spice is hot, dangerous, and deliciously twisted. The tension and banter between them are perfectly balanced with the raw emotion and psychological depth of the story.
I highly recommend this book to readers who love pitch-black romance, morally gray antiheroes, and psychological thrillers that push boundaries.
⚠️ Please check the content and trigger warnings before reading—this story is not for the faint of heart.
Thank you to J.A. Owenby and Grey’s Promotions for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
October 30, 2025
You don’t have to love me, little ghost.
Lock the door. Scream my name. Run.
I’ve never needed permission to take what’s mine.
This is the heartbreaking story of Kip and Holland, two people damaged in every imaginable way, used and abused both physically and psychologically who somehow manage to find their to each other but can they overcome their pasts or is the damage that has been done to them too great for them ever to be happy?
What a dark, gripping and intense rollercoaster of a story and definitely not an easy read especially as Kip’s past was revealed so it won’t be for everyone but if you can stick with it, it was such a satisfying read. Behind the Shadows is one of those books where you honestly don’t which way it’s going to play out which only added to the building suspense and tension. Kip and Holland were just so scarred by the horrors they had experienced making for a lot of angst and emotion in their story and all through my read I was praying for them to find peace together and perhaps mend some of their broken parts and heal each other.
While it can be read as a standalone, I’d recommend reading the In The Shadows duet first
Lock the door. Scream my name. Run.
I’ve never needed permission to take what’s mine.
This is the heartbreaking story of Kip and Holland, two people damaged in every imaginable way, used and abused both physically and psychologically who somehow manage to find their to each other but can they overcome their pasts or is the damage that has been done to them too great for them ever to be happy?
What a dark, gripping and intense rollercoaster of a story and definitely not an easy read especially as Kip’s past was revealed so it won’t be for everyone but if you can stick with it, it was such a satisfying read. Behind the Shadows is one of those books where you honestly don’t which way it’s going to play out which only added to the building suspense and tension. Kip and Holland were just so scarred by the horrors they had experienced making for a lot of angst and emotion in their story and all through my read I was praying for them to find peace together and perhaps mend some of their broken parts and heal each other.
While it can be read as a standalone, I’d recommend reading the In The Shadows duet first
October 25, 2025
Oh my gosh! J.A. Owenby, you've done it again! Dragged me deeper into this world, hanging on every single word as if it'll be the last I read. And this chokehold! The noose around my neck, figuratively, has me needing more… I am so hooked.
Your words are a glorious read, never do I feel it lacks a story or plot, instead the secrets deepen and the story grows more twisted. I absolutely love it! OBSESSED is a better term for what I am feeling. I thought Death and Ella had me in the interconnected books of their duet, but now I am fascinated with another creation/characters in this universe.
Cannot express to others about diving into this world of hers, you will be left the same as me. Addicted.
“You’ve made your choice. But remember, when you dance with the devil, the price is always higher than you think.”
I'm so completely honored to have been an arc for this! Talk about praying and hoping that email would come, when it did. I squealed in delight and could not wait until it was sent. Amazing. 50 stars read if I could put that many stars!
Your words are a glorious read, never do I feel it lacks a story or plot, instead the secrets deepen and the story grows more twisted. I absolutely love it! OBSESSED is a better term for what I am feeling. I thought Death and Ella had me in the interconnected books of their duet, but now I am fascinated with another creation/characters in this universe.
Cannot express to others about diving into this world of hers, you will be left the same as me. Addicted.
“You’ve made your choice. But remember, when you dance with the devil, the price is always higher than you think.”
I'm so completely honored to have been an arc for this! Talk about praying and hoping that email would come, when it did. I squealed in delight and could not wait until it was sent. Amazing. 50 stars read if I could put that many stars!
October 27, 2025
This.! One.! There is so much to unpack.
I mean, from the very beginning of this story, 0-60 right out of the gate. Holy cow.
I mean the characters- both FMC MMC are so good!
Their history, the shit they both had to deal with in their past, navigating their future/current situation….. just the whole plot was filled with so much going on, so much detail, so many sideline things happening. But not in a confusing way at all, it’s very organized and you’re sitting at the edge of your seat waiting on how the hell this thing is going to end.
The spice, the passion, the darkness, the thrill.
This was such a great dark romance novel!
Really quick, I’ve read the two books prior to this one of Ella and Deaths story- this book can absolutely be read as a standalone. You’re given clear info on side characters and friends- but this will def make you want to go back and read about Ella/death.
-ARC review-
I mean, from the very beginning of this story, 0-60 right out of the gate. Holy cow.
I mean the characters- both FMC MMC are so good!
Their history, the shit they both had to deal with in their past, navigating their future/current situation….. just the whole plot was filled with so much going on, so much detail, so many sideline things happening. But not in a confusing way at all, it’s very organized and you’re sitting at the edge of your seat waiting on how the hell this thing is going to end.
The spice, the passion, the darkness, the thrill.
This was such a great dark romance novel!
Really quick, I’ve read the two books prior to this one of Ella and Deaths story- this book can absolutely be read as a standalone. You’re given clear info on side characters and friends- but this will def make you want to go back and read about Ella/death.
-ARC review-
October 23, 2025
Masked man
Hidden secrets
spice is seriously spicin🌶🌶🌶
Can I rate this a 20 star read. This is J.A. Owenby 's calling. Her "In The Shadows", Back In The Shadows " and now this one
BEHIND THE SHADOWS .
KIP AND HOLLAND'S... ..... 🤔 the Shadows are definitely calling for someone..
I became totally Obsessed. J.A. Owenby has always know how to write a book and keep you coming back for more.
This book holds A LOT of secrets and possibilities of betrayal. I am keeping my mouth shut because you have to read it and be just as SHOCKED as I was. 🫣
I want to tell you that some things are not what they appear to be especially in this book
But.
Leaving you with some thoughts......
"When I find out what he said to her, the motherfucker will never see me coming. Soon, we’ll be rid of him once and for all.”
mmm. Wonder who this is🤔🫣
“You might want to hold off on that confession, at least until you’re sure how she’s connected to you.”
OOps!! wonder who they are talking about!!
I know. And Omg!!! 🫣👀👀👀
J.A. Owenby you had me with the very first chapter. I was consumed constantly with all of the plot twists and with all the characters secrets and SHIT with it all.
The best book of 2025.
oh Yeah!! There is this little thing in the back of the book .. 😈 MMM.. The BONUS SCENE. (maniacally laughs) your gonna love it
Hidden secrets
spice is seriously spicin🌶🌶🌶
Can I rate this a 20 star read. This is J.A. Owenby 's calling. Her "In The Shadows", Back In The Shadows " and now this one
BEHIND THE SHADOWS .
KIP AND HOLLAND'S... ..... 🤔 the Shadows are definitely calling for someone..
I became totally Obsessed. J.A. Owenby has always know how to write a book and keep you coming back for more.
This book holds A LOT of secrets and possibilities of betrayal. I am keeping my mouth shut because you have to read it and be just as SHOCKED as I was. 🫣
I want to tell you that some things are not what they appear to be especially in this book
But.
Leaving you with some thoughts......
"When I find out what he said to her, the motherfucker will never see me coming. Soon, we’ll be rid of him once and for all.”
mmm. Wonder who this is🤔🫣
“You might want to hold off on that confession, at least until you’re sure how she’s connected to you.”
OOps!! wonder who they are talking about!!
I know. And Omg!!! 🫣👀👀👀
J.A. Owenby you had me with the very first chapter. I was consumed constantly with all of the plot twists and with all the characters secrets and SHIT with it all.
The best book of 2025.
oh Yeah!! There is this little thing in the back of the book .. 😈 MMM.. The BONUS SCENE. (maniacally laughs) your gonna love it
October 28, 2025
Behind the Shadows - JA Owenby
MMC- Kip
FMC - Holland (Samantha)
🖤dark psychological romance
🪽damaged morally grey MMC
🖤trauma healing
🪽survivor fmc
🖤emotional slow burn
ARC review:
I read Deaths duo & absolutely loved it. I loved Kip in Deaths book. He was truly an amazing friend!
Behind the Shadows is the third installment in the Shadows series. While this is a standalone, I highly recommend starting at the beginning. If you haven’t listened to and/or read Death's story, please jump back to book 1. Death is amazing and completely unhinged! I love it.
This story is about Kip, who is Death's best friend.
Kip is tortured by a violent past that has haunted him his entire life but he’s also determined to protect those around him in his own way. Kip is alpha, possessive and unhinged. Holland, the FMC, carries her own scars and when their worlds collide, their connection is raw and powerful.
MMC- Kip
FMC - Holland (Samantha)
🖤dark psychological romance
🪽damaged morally grey MMC
🖤trauma healing
🪽survivor fmc
🖤emotional slow burn
ARC review:
I read Deaths duo & absolutely loved it. I loved Kip in Deaths book. He was truly an amazing friend!
Behind the Shadows is the third installment in the Shadows series. While this is a standalone, I highly recommend starting at the beginning. If you haven’t listened to and/or read Death's story, please jump back to book 1. Death is amazing and completely unhinged! I love it.
This story is about Kip, who is Death's best friend.
Kip is tortured by a violent past that has haunted him his entire life but he’s also determined to protect those around him in his own way. Kip is alpha, possessive and unhinged. Holland, the FMC, carries her own scars and when their worlds collide, their connection is raw and powerful.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 30, 2025
Rating: 4.5 ☆
Spice: 🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶️
Thank you for the ARC @greyspromo
PLEASE check the trigger warnings before you dive into this book (there’s a lot of them lol)
This was a dark, twisted, and utterly addictive romance. In the beginning, I’ll admit—I was scared of Kip. He’s brutal, unhinged, and completely consumed by Holland. But by the end? I weirdly liked his character and the way his possessiveness turned protective. One of my favorite side characters was “Death”, especially when he started worrying about Kip.
The writing is haunting and raw—full of obsession, pain, and the kind of love that shouldn’t exist but somehow does. That quote—“Some of us were born into darkness. Others were shackled.”—perfectly sets the tone. This was the first book I’ve ever read by @jaowenby1 and damn did she blow it out of the water.
If you love a morally BLACK MMC, intense chemistry, and a story that makes you question your own sanity for rooting for the villain… this one’s for you.
Spice: 🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶️
Thank you for the ARC @greyspromo
PLEASE check the trigger warnings before you dive into this book (there’s a lot of them lol)
This was a dark, twisted, and utterly addictive romance. In the beginning, I’ll admit—I was scared of Kip. He’s brutal, unhinged, and completely consumed by Holland. But by the end? I weirdly liked his character and the way his possessiveness turned protective. One of my favorite side characters was “Death”, especially when he started worrying about Kip.
The writing is haunting and raw—full of obsession, pain, and the kind of love that shouldn’t exist but somehow does. That quote—“Some of us were born into darkness. Others were shackled.”—perfectly sets the tone. This was the first book I’ve ever read by @jaowenby1 and damn did she blow it out of the water.
If you love a morally BLACK MMC, intense chemistry, and a story that makes you question your own sanity for rooting for the villain… this one’s for you.
October 28, 2025
‘Going somewhere, little ghost?’
Intensity, depravity and morality rolled into one amazing
book!
How does JA Owenby make your knees weak for such dark, possessive and morally grey (hunky!) men?
Kip’s story is utterly heartbreaking, and Holland’s is equally distressing…family anguish, religious based trauma and nightmares that rock you to your core.
There are so many twists, turns and moments where the rug isn’t just pulled out from under you but ripped so hard you nearly fall off your chair reading it!
Kip and Holland’s story follows Sebastian and Ella’s story from In the Shadows/Back in the Shadows, and although a standalone I highly recommend following along as all the stories intertwine and give some context for the back story.
Intensity, depravity and morality rolled into one amazing
book!
How does JA Owenby make your knees weak for such dark, possessive and morally grey (hunky!) men?
Kip’s story is utterly heartbreaking, and Holland’s is equally distressing…family anguish, religious based trauma and nightmares that rock you to your core.
There are so many twists, turns and moments where the rug isn’t just pulled out from under you but ripped so hard you nearly fall off your chair reading it!
Kip and Holland’s story follows Sebastian and Ella’s story from In the Shadows/Back in the Shadows, and although a standalone I highly recommend following along as all the stories intertwine and give some context for the back story.
October 24, 2025
Behind the shadows by @jaowenby1
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
This is my first read by @jaowenby1 and I need more of her in my life. Thank you for the ARC @jaowenby1 and @theauthor.agency I am officially obsessed with Kip!!!!
This is the perfect balance between amazing 🌶️ (which is perfectly dark, stalkerish, primal with all the good stuff) and a plot which continually keeps you guessing. I spent the whole time trying to guess what would happen next (and I never got it right), and pulling faces like this 😱 (but in a good way.
The side characters are amazing - loved Death and Dope (I think everyone needs them in their life). Kip and Holland as the leads are 👌. I loved them both, I enjoyed the development of their relationship as well as how both their lives were intertwined.
This is a properly good dark romance with a plot that is completely different from others I have read.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
This is my first read by @jaowenby1 and I need more of her in my life. Thank you for the ARC @jaowenby1 and @theauthor.agency I am officially obsessed with Kip!!!!
This is the perfect balance between amazing 🌶️ (which is perfectly dark, stalkerish, primal with all the good stuff) and a plot which continually keeps you guessing. I spent the whole time trying to guess what would happen next (and I never got it right), and pulling faces like this 😱 (but in a good way.
The side characters are amazing - loved Death and Dope (I think everyone needs them in their life). Kip and Holland as the leads are 👌. I loved them both, I enjoyed the development of their relationship as well as how both their lives were intertwined.
This is a properly good dark romance with a plot that is completely different from others I have read.
October 27, 2025
Are you looking for a Dark Romance to keep you on your toes before the first chapter even starts? Whelp..... here ya go!!! Thank me later!!! When you recover that is.........
Also, if you have not read In The Shadows and Back In The Shadows by J.A. Owenby you def should read those first to know all the characters and truly get the best of this book!!! That was me nicely saying READ THE DAYUM BOOKS!!!
I love me a Dark Romance and this brought everything!!! I haven’t read a J.A. Owenby book I haven’t loved yet and this was another killer (pun no pun).
Dark Romance
Stalker
Forbidden Romance
Possessive and Obsessed MMC
Touch Her & ☠️
Both a bit Unhinged
Gray to Black MMC
Revenge
And so much more!!!!
I highly recommend to my Dark Romance family!!! You will love how this book brings so much together and yet you will question so much at the same time!!!! Love a series that keeps me on my toes and keeps my brain turning……
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
☠️🖤☠️🖤☠️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
🚩🚩🚩 (always check)
Thank you Jennifer (J.A. Owenby) and Greys Promo allowing me to Arc Kip and Hollands story. Absolutely loved it!!!!
Also, if you have not read In The Shadows and Back In The Shadows by J.A. Owenby you def should read those first to know all the characters and truly get the best of this book!!! That was me nicely saying READ THE DAYUM BOOKS!!!
I love me a Dark Romance and this brought everything!!! I haven’t read a J.A. Owenby book I haven’t loved yet and this was another killer (pun no pun).
Dark Romance
Stalker
Forbidden Romance
Possessive and Obsessed MMC
Touch Her & ☠️
Both a bit Unhinged
Gray to Black MMC
Revenge
And so much more!!!!
I highly recommend to my Dark Romance family!!! You will love how this book brings so much together and yet you will question so much at the same time!!!! Love a series that keeps me on my toes and keeps my brain turning……
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
☠️🖤☠️🖤☠️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
🚩🚩🚩 (always check)
Thank you Jennifer (J.A. Owenby) and Greys Promo allowing me to Arc Kip and Hollands story. Absolutely loved it!!!!
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