What do you think?
Rate this book
Keeping Leilani
KOBY
I’ve done a lot of questionable things in my life, but obsessing over a woman I saw twice tops the list.
One look at Leilani Hale and something inside me cracked open. She’s all I want, but keeping her close is far from simple.
She spent years locked in a dollhouse, stripped of her autonomy, and when she finally breaks free, obedience is the last thing on her mind.
She fights. She yells. She spills my blood and bruises my skin. And then she kisses me like she’ll die without it.
I can’t get enough. My world narrows to her, and every day becomes about keeping her breathing.
Keeping her safe.
Keeping her mine.
But nothing in our world stays simple for long.
When old enemies turn into reluctant allies and war threatens to unravel the fragile peace we built, Leilani becomes the perfect weapon... and the one thing I can’t afford to lose.
LEILANI
For years, I was trained to be perfect. Pretty. Quiet. Obedient. A toy built to please the man who owned me.
He stole my choices, my voice, and every piece of who I was until there was nothing left to take.
Now I’m out of the cage, fighting, pretending, and lying to get what I need—freedom.
Koby Maddox becomes an easy target the moment I notice how protective he is.
He doesn’t ask me to be soft. He takes my punches and begs for more, far too willing to bleed for me. He’s chaos, violence, and need wrapped in loyalty.
But the closer we get, one truth becomes impossible to the price of my freedom might be war.
He’s terrified I’ll leave once I’m free.
I’m terrified freedom won’t mean a thing unless I exact my revenge.
I’ve done a lot of questionable things in my life, but obsessing over a woman I saw twice tops the list.
One look at Leilani Hale and something inside me cracked open. She’s all I want, but keeping her close is far from simple.
She spent years locked in a dollhouse, stripped of her autonomy, and when she finally breaks free, obedience is the last thing on her mind.
She fights. She yells. She spills my blood and bruises my skin. And then she kisses me like she’ll die without it.
I can’t get enough. My world narrows to her, and every day becomes about keeping her breathing.
Keeping her safe.
Keeping her mine.
But nothing in our world stays simple for long.
When old enemies turn into reluctant allies and war threatens to unravel the fragile peace we built, Leilani becomes the perfect weapon... and the one thing I can’t afford to lose.
LEILANI
For years, I was trained to be perfect. Pretty. Quiet. Obedient. A toy built to please the man who owned me.
He stole my choices, my voice, and every piece of who I was until there was nothing left to take.
Now I’m out of the cage, fighting, pretending, and lying to get what I need—freedom.
Koby Maddox becomes an easy target the moment I notice how protective he is.
He doesn’t ask me to be soft. He takes my punches and begs for more, far too willing to bleed for me. He’s chaos, violence, and need wrapped in loyalty.
But the closer we get, one truth becomes impossible to the price of my freedom might be war.
He’s terrified I’ll leave once I’m free.
I’m terrified freedom won’t mean a thing unless I exact my revenge.
1 pages, Audio CD
Published November 11, 2025
118 people are currently reading
448 people want to read
About the author
I.A. Dice
19 books2,073 followersI. A. Dice writes emotionally intense romance—both dark and light—but always equally spicy. When she’s not dreaming up love stories, she’s probably drinking too much coffee and swooning over fictional men.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 98 reviews
January 16, 2026
If you know me in any capacity then you know I haven’t shut up about Breaking Hailey since the moment I read it. It’s a book I think about daily. It’s massively underrated and under hyped. With that being said, I have patiently awaiting the last and final book in this series, Keeping Leilani. It's been months and I was so excited but also sad for this series to come to a close.
I absolutely loved Koby throughout the series and was so excited to finally get his book in my hands. And after how Catching Bianca ended, I was so excited to meet his FMC who literally made him fall at first sight. And let's just put it this way, Leilani surprised me. She wasn't what I expected. She's been groomed for years but not in the way you would expect. But this grooming is something that she battles with throughout the book. Like the way certain things would trigger her to either slip back into a doll like state or become a feral little gremlin. There was no in-between. At first glance, Leilani may look like this meek and weak little girl but her looks with surprise you because she is anything but. Plus I also loved how she went for what she wanted and what she wanted was Koby.
Now Koby, like this man is obsessed. And he doesn't even try to hide It. He’s like obsessed, obsessed. The moment he laid eyes on Leilani he was down bad. Couldn’t stop thinking about her. Like it was to the point where he lost sleep and made himself sick. The way that this man loved, cared and protected her was literally perfect. And that right there is what we love to see in our fictional men! Koby and Leilani were just such a fun couple and a fun way to end the series.
This book was very fast paced. It was a quick read. The spice and plot was what I expected. But with that being said, I felt like this book read differently than the others. As I was reading the book I kept thinking to myself why does this seem different. I thought maybe it was due to this book releasing much later than expected. But I still can’t place my finger on it. My main issue is with how this book ended. I felt like the ending was rushed with no real conclusion. Like I feel as if I’m sitting here with some unanswered questions. The last chapter doesn’t feel like an appropriate ending for a book that ends the series. It also doesn’t feel appropriate for a series that was very heavy on the found family aspect. I would have expected another chapter or two to nicely wrap up Koby and Leilani’s story with an extended epilogue in the future to see Carter and the gang happily wed with families. That’s what I expected and really desperately wanted. If I’m saying goodbye to a series, it’s nice to have things wrapped up in a bow. And I just feel like that was lacking which makes me really sad because I love this series dearly!
With that being said, I still truly loved this series and highly recommend it! I can’t wait to see what IA Dice gives us in the future!
I absolutely loved Koby throughout the series and was so excited to finally get his book in my hands. And after how Catching Bianca ended, I was so excited to meet his FMC who literally made him fall at first sight. And let's just put it this way, Leilani surprised me. She wasn't what I expected. She's been groomed for years but not in the way you would expect. But this grooming is something that she battles with throughout the book. Like the way certain things would trigger her to either slip back into a doll like state or become a feral little gremlin. There was no in-between. At first glance, Leilani may look like this meek and weak little girl but her looks with surprise you because she is anything but. Plus I also loved how she went for what she wanted and what she wanted was Koby.
Now Koby, like this man is obsessed. And he doesn't even try to hide It. He’s like obsessed, obsessed. The moment he laid eyes on Leilani he was down bad. Couldn’t stop thinking about her. Like it was to the point where he lost sleep and made himself sick. The way that this man loved, cared and protected her was literally perfect. And that right there is what we love to see in our fictional men! Koby and Leilani were just such a fun couple and a fun way to end the series.
This book was very fast paced. It was a quick read. The spice and plot was what I expected. But with that being said, I felt like this book read differently than the others. As I was reading the book I kept thinking to myself why does this seem different. I thought maybe it was due to this book releasing much later than expected. But I still can’t place my finger on it. My main issue is with how this book ended. I felt like the ending was rushed with no real conclusion. Like I feel as if I’m sitting here with some unanswered questions. The last chapter doesn’t feel like an appropriate ending for a book that ends the series. It also doesn’t feel appropriate for a series that was very heavy on the found family aspect. I would have expected another chapter or two to nicely wrap up Koby and Leilani’s story with an extended epilogue in the future to see Carter and the gang happily wed with families. That’s what I expected and really desperately wanted. If I’m saying goodbye to a series, it’s nice to have things wrapped up in a bow. And I just feel like that was lacking which makes me really sad because I love this series dearly!
With that being said, I still truly loved this series and highly recommend it! I can’t wait to see what IA Dice gives us in the future!
November 19, 2025
Koby mf Maddox. I loved everything about this book. Their chemistry. Kobys obsession with Leilani. Her trauma and his resolve to help her thru it has my heart. The banter with Ryder and Broadway! Koby and Carter are hands down my favorite men.
This is a series I will ALWAYS recommend. I’m sad to say, I wish this was longer. I already miss them.
So blessed to have been given this as an ARC read.
This is a series I will ALWAYS recommend. I’m sad to say, I wish this was longer. I already miss them.
So blessed to have been given this as an ARC read.
November 24, 2025
4.5⭐️
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC copy! Wow, the wait was worth it, I. A. Dice didn’t disappoint!
Absolutely loved Koby’s obsessive protectiveness, but also how he respected Leilani’s boundaries and encouraged her to embrace her fierce personality. Koby was both unhinged and vulnerable throughout this story which gave Leilani the opportunity to step out of her shell, and care for him in a way he never knew he needed. While their instant attraction did seem fast, it emphasizes how obvious it was that Koby and Leilani needed to find each-other in their own way. It was so fun seeing Leilani stand up to Koby and then him ending up conceding and following her lead. We love a woman who knows her worth and believes in herself!!
I can’t believe this was the last book in the series 💔 While this book was a quick read, it was fast paced and included the bromance humor we love from our favorites - Carter, Broadway and Ryder! One of the best series I’ve read this year, I will definitely be missing these characters and their family bond!
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC copy! Wow, the wait was worth it, I. A. Dice didn’t disappoint!
Absolutely loved Koby’s obsessive protectiveness, but also how he respected Leilani’s boundaries and encouraged her to embrace her fierce personality. Koby was both unhinged and vulnerable throughout this story which gave Leilani the opportunity to step out of her shell, and care for him in a way he never knew he needed. While their instant attraction did seem fast, it emphasizes how obvious it was that Koby and Leilani needed to find each-other in their own way. It was so fun seeing Leilani stand up to Koby and then him ending up conceding and following her lead. We love a woman who knows her worth and believes in herself!!
I can’t believe this was the last book in the series 💔 While this book was a quick read, it was fast paced and included the bromance humor we love from our favorites - Carter, Broadway and Ryder! One of the best series I’ve read this year, I will definitely be missing these characters and their family bond!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 7, 2026
Okey lets just start by saying Leilani was definitely not how i expected her to be...
I rly thought she would be a meek scared lil thing but she turned out to be a wild hellcat indeed
She's was caged for so long and when she finally had her freedom she unleashed her wild side toward koby and let me tell u he aint sad about it!!lol.
The sexual tension between them was immediate before they even knew it
She's a seductrice yet she 's a traumatized woman she went through alot with that sick f*Anton
overalll it was a good book i love this author's writing skills
hope blaze will have his own book
I rly thought she would be a meek scared lil thing but she turned out to be a wild hellcat indeed
She's was caged for so long and when she finally had her freedom she unleashed her wild side toward koby and let me tell u he aint sad about it!!lol.
The sexual tension between them was immediate before they even knew it
She's a seductrice yet she 's a traumatized woman she went through alot with that sick f*Anton
overalll it was a good book i love this author's writing skills
hope blaze will have his own book
November 26, 2025
***4,5 "Hellcat!!!" stars***
"How do I stop her from bleeding when I can't see the wounds?"
It is unbelievable to think that this was the last book of the series!!!!
I have loved fiercely the "Shadows of Obsession" series!!! I liked the background story that was interconnected to all five books and I loved every single couple in here, even though I have to admit that I have favorites...
No one can bypass Carter in my eyes, but then... Koby made me fall hard here!!! No offense to Broadway and Ryder... They were both of them amazing, but I am a girl with weaknesses!!!
"Every time I picture her, that need consumes me further. Grab her. Rip her out of his arms. Drag her away. Keep her safe."
It took one glance for player Koby to become obsessed with Leilani, a damsel in distress who needed his help.... He will move mountains to get her out of the claws of her abusive partner, but are the things always as they seem???
Leilani is in deep sh*t, but no one can imagine what she is been through for the last three years...
Koby is giving her a chance and she needs to break free from the invisible chains that are shackling her down...
But hey, Leilani is by far a damsel... She has claws and she know show to use them and it is funny to watch her taking down Koby…
"What if I imagined it? What if she's fine?...
No. No fucking way.
I know what a cage looks like and she's inside one, even if no one else sees the bars."
Well, it is impossible to tell you more about this story cause I don't want to ruin it for anyone...
Leilani needs protection and Koby is very protective of her...
Leilani needs someone in her corner and this crew is what she really needs!!!
Koby is the bonus, cause this man will do anything for this girl!!! Even protect her from herself!!!
Leilani broke my heart here, but she was a very strong girl and she could unbreak her heart if she wanted it!!!
She and Koby couldn't be more perfect for each other!!!
"Make me your villain, hellcat."
Yep, this story was another beautiful addition to the series and I am kind of sad that it is over...
I have loved this crew so darn hard and I will miss them...
But... Is it only me that is wondering about Blaze??? For a reason, this man intrigues me and I would like to read more of him!!!
Yep, he is not a good guy, but he has a certain appealing... Don't you think???
"I want her laugh, her anger, her broken pieces.
I want every part, no matter how dark..."
**I received an ARC for the exchange of an honest review**
"How do I stop her from bleeding when I can't see the wounds?"
It is unbelievable to think that this was the last book of the series!!!!
I have loved fiercely the "Shadows of Obsession" series!!! I liked the background story that was interconnected to all five books and I loved every single couple in here, even though I have to admit that I have favorites...
No one can bypass Carter in my eyes, but then... Koby made me fall hard here!!! No offense to Broadway and Ryder... They were both of them amazing, but I am a girl with weaknesses!!!
"Every time I picture her, that need consumes me further. Grab her. Rip her out of his arms. Drag her away. Keep her safe."
It took one glance for player Koby to become obsessed with Leilani, a damsel in distress who needed his help.... He will move mountains to get her out of the claws of her abusive partner, but are the things always as they seem???
Leilani is in deep sh*t, but no one can imagine what she is been through for the last three years...
Koby is giving her a chance and she needs to break free from the invisible chains that are shackling her down...
But hey, Leilani is by far a damsel... She has claws and she know show to use them and it is funny to watch her taking down Koby…
"What if I imagined it? What if she's fine?...
No. No fucking way.
I know what a cage looks like and she's inside one, even if no one else sees the bars."
Well, it is impossible to tell you more about this story cause I don't want to ruin it for anyone...
Leilani needs protection and Koby is very protective of her...
Leilani needs someone in her corner and this crew is what she really needs!!!
Koby is the bonus, cause this man will do anything for this girl!!! Even protect her from herself!!!
Leilani broke my heart here, but she was a very strong girl and she could unbreak her heart if she wanted it!!!
She and Koby couldn't be more perfect for each other!!!
"Make me your villain, hellcat."
Yep, this story was another beautiful addition to the series and I am kind of sad that it is over...
I have loved this crew so darn hard and I will miss them...
But... Is it only me that is wondering about Blaze??? For a reason, this man intrigues me and I would like to read more of him!!!
Yep, he is not a good guy, but he has a certain appealing... Don't you think???
"I want her laugh, her anger, her broken pieces.
I want every part, no matter how dark..."
**I received an ARC for the exchange of an honest review**
November 28, 2025
3/5 stars
I've been waiting on this book for about 6 months while the book, the characters & the plot made a great story I'm very disappointed with the ending. It drops off with no wrap up we don't see Carter and Haley's wedding or Broadway and Violet's baby. Unless there is a epilogue coming out later? I saw a thing from the author that said she was disappointed how the stories didn't take off like she hoped they would and honestly it shows that at the end. Finishing this book it like she didn't put effort into this book as much as the others. I recommend the series but don't expect much at the end
I've been waiting on this book for about 6 months while the book, the characters & the plot made a great story I'm very disappointed with the ending. It drops off with no wrap up we don't see Carter and Haley's wedding or Broadway and Violet's baby. Unless there is a epilogue coming out later? I saw a thing from the author that said she was disappointed how the stories didn't take off like she hoped they would and honestly it shows that at the end. Finishing this book it like she didn't put effort into this book as much as the others. I recommend the series but don't expect much at the end
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 25, 2025
Fab read.
This was such an amazing read, dark and twisty for sure but still fab! I loved how gone for Leilani Koby was and just how far he was willing to go to ensure she was safe.
Also loved how strong Leilani was, she's been through a lot but, having come out the other side, she was determined to live life to the fullest. And enjoyed that she didn't hold back on telling Koby where she wanted!
This was such an amazing read, dark and twisty for sure but still fab! I loved how gone for Leilani Koby was and just how far he was willing to go to ensure she was safe.
Also loved how strong Leilani was, she's been through a lot but, having come out the other side, she was determined to live life to the fullest. And enjoyed that she didn't hold back on telling Koby where she wanted!
March 3, 2026
I was an ARC reader for this book, let me start off by saying the FMC is a badass woman and I’m so glad I.A. Dice made her to be so strong. Koby is the man and is unhinged and IN LOVE!
The ONLY thing I wish is that the ending was longer, it felt unfinished in my opinion. It definitely NEEDS a LONG epilogue about what happens to Blaze, and his business. I need to know what happened to Dante, Carter, Ryder and Broadway. It’s still an amazing series and I will forever be a I.A Dice fan!
The ONLY thing I wish is that the ending was longer, it felt unfinished in my opinion. It definitely NEEDS a LONG epilogue about what happens to Blaze, and his business. I need to know what happened to Dante, Carter, Ryder and Broadway. It’s still an amazing series and I will forever be a I.A Dice fan!
March 25, 2026
The chokehold this series has had on me is next level and I’m so sad it’s done
Every book I fall in love with another one of Carters men. First Carter himself, then broadway, then Ryder and now Koby like are you kidding. I want a man as obsessed with me as these men are with their girls
I want to read this series again for the first time
5 stars
Every book I fall in love with another one of Carters men. First Carter himself, then broadway, then Ryder and now Koby like are you kidding. I want a man as obsessed with me as these men are with their girls
I want to read this series again for the first time
5 stars
November 16, 2025
Arc read, Yes I did a little eeep when I got this!
“Sleep hell cat, I’ll be hear when you wake up.”
“You better, you promised me forever.”
I 100% think this was the best book in this series, however was so disappointed that there’s was no epilogue.
I love how Koby wants Leilani to be unapologetically herself, after everything she endured being in Antons clutches for 3 years.
Koby falls first and hard - “I don’t want just her body. I want her laugh, her anger, her broken pieces. I want every part,no matter how dark. I’m not sure I’ll survive if she doesn’t give me that.”
I think this book had so much more humour than the others and I fully laughed at Koby saying “fuck me sideways… I want to be a condiment.”
Leilani asking Koby how he could be a red and a green flag for Koby to say he’s not a red flag and having to be reminded that he kills people 😂
How Koby takes care of Leilani when shes on her period *chefs kiss*. And we even get the classic “fuck it” line before he kisses her for the first time!
The only reason for loosing a star is that there is no epilogue. If you’ve read these books you know the follow in from each other so no need for an epilogue, however as this is the last book in the series, I think we need a little more, even if its only 12 months later. I want to know how Broadways finding parenthood, Dante and Lyla too. Did any one get married. Did Norrettos “business” get shut down. Hows Leilani’s recovery going? So many questions 😂
Anyhow, go and read this book, this series.
I can’t wait to see what I A Dice does next. ❤️
“Sleep hell cat, I’ll be hear when you wake up.”
“You better, you promised me forever.”
I 100% think this was the best book in this series, however was so disappointed that there’s was no epilogue.
I love how Koby wants Leilani to be unapologetically herself, after everything she endured being in Antons clutches for 3 years.
Koby falls first and hard - “I don’t want just her body. I want her laugh, her anger, her broken pieces. I want every part,no matter how dark. I’m not sure I’ll survive if she doesn’t give me that.”
I think this book had so much more humour than the others and I fully laughed at Koby saying “fuck me sideways… I want to be a condiment.”
Leilani asking Koby how he could be a red and a green flag for Koby to say he’s not a red flag and having to be reminded that he kills people 😂
How Koby takes care of Leilani when shes on her period *chefs kiss*. And we even get the classic “fuck it” line before he kisses her for the first time!
The only reason for loosing a star is that there is no epilogue. If you’ve read these books you know the follow in from each other so no need for an epilogue, however as this is the last book in the series, I think we need a little more, even if its only 12 months later. I want to know how Broadways finding parenthood, Dante and Lyla too. Did any one get married. Did Norrettos “business” get shut down. Hows Leilani’s recovery going? So many questions 😂
Anyhow, go and read this book, this series.
I can’t wait to see what I A Dice does next. ❤️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 27, 2026
Hot Take: This was some what refreshing. Normally a dark romance about sex trafficking follows a pretty stereotypical path. This was not that. The non sexual element was so fucked up but written so well. The only thing that gave me pause was how fast they became obsessed with each other. It didn’t feel organic at all.
Main Characters: Koby and Leilani
Spice level: 3/5
1st kiss: 46% a fuck it moment
1st actual sex scene: 47%
Pet names: Hellcat. Hated it.
Recap: Koby Maddox works as an enforcer in a criminal organization led by Carter Willard. He lives in a world of violence, torture, and mafia politics alongside his close associates Ryder, Broadway, and their respective partners. Koby's life changes when he becomes obsessed with Leilani Hale after encountering her only twice. Leilani appears to be trapped in a frightening relationship with a man named Jax, and Koby notices she seems scared and bears visible bruises. What Koby doesn't initially understand is the depth of Leilani's traumatic past.
Three years earlier, when Leilani was nearly sixteen, masked gunmen invaded her family home and killed her stepmother. Anton Grey, one of the intruders, killed his accomplices and forced Leilani's father into a deal: Leilani would belong to Anton in exchange for their lives. For nearly three years, Anton held Leilani captive in his apartment, systematically breaking down her identity by treating her like a small child or doll, controlling every aspect of her existence from what she wore and ate to how she spoke and behaved. He never sexually assaulted her, but instead inflicted psychological torture that nearly destroyed her sense of self. When Anton's brother Octavius discovered Anton had disobeyed orders to kill Leilani, he took her from Anton as punishment and eventually handed her to the sex trafficker Blaze Noretto, who assigned Jax to watch her. Koby's obsession with rescuing Leilani drives him to plant surveillance outside her hotel room, where he witnesses Jax's abuse. He breaks into the room and finds Leilani with a bruised face, holding a wine glass as a weapon against Jax. Koby knocks Jax unconscious and takes Leilani to Carter's house, though he cannot kill Jax due to valuable business negotiations. At Carter's house, Leilani initially tries to manipulate the situation to escape, but when she realizes Carter prioritizes his deal with Noretto over her safety, she attempts to flee.
The truth emerges: Anton still monitors Leilani through weekly video calls to ensure she remains
"safe and untouched," and if she disappears, he will hunt her down. Leilani chooses to stay with Koby rather than return to Jax. As Leilani settles into Koby's apartment, she gradually reveals the horrifying details of her captivity—how Anton dressed her in frilly dresses, fed her like a toddler, read her children's books, and punished any disobedience by locking her in a closet or torturing her father on video. She explains that Anton never raped her but did something "far worse" by systematically erasing her personality and autonomy.
Koby and Leilani develop an intense romantic and sexual relationship. Koby struggles with his desire to protect her while respecting her need for agency after years of control. Leilani experiences frequent panic attacks triggered by words, actions, or objects that remind her of Anton, sometimes violently attacking Koby during these episodes.
Despite this, their bond deepens as Koby proves himself different from her captors by giving her choices, space, and genuine care. Leilani must continue performing for Anton during their weekly video calls, adopting the submissive, childlike persona he expects while wearing the clothes he prefers. These calls leave her disoriented and struggling to maintain her recovered sense of self.
Meanwhile, Carter and his organization work on a plan to eliminate the Grey brothers, but they face a significant problem: killing Octavius without provocation would trigger a nationwide mafia war, as Octavius has accumulated substantial power and allies.
The group devises a strategy to use Leilani as bait to manipulate Anton into killing his own brother.
They plan to make Anton believe that Octavius failed to protect Leilani by having her appear at a sex trafficking auction looking abused and frightened. Koby initially refuses to allow Leilani to participate, but after she accuses him of controlling her like Anton did, he reluctantly agrees on the condition that she follows the plan exactly. The preparation involves Koby marking Leilani's body with hickeys to simulate abuse, knowing this will enrage Anton, who became unhinged at any imperfection on her skin during her captivity. Leilani makes a hysterical phone call to Anton, claiming she overheard plans to sell her at auction in Pittsburgh, successfully convincing him to drive fifteen hours to the location. The plan requires precise timing and psychological manipulation, exploiting Anton's obsessive need to protect Leilani as his possession.
At the sex trafficking auction, Leilani sits at the front with Octavius and Blaze while Koby and Ryder pose as Carter's representatives. Anton bursts in with armed men, demanding to know where Leilani is. When he sees the bruises on her body, he becomes enraged. As Octavius grabs Leilani, Anton shoots him in the head, triggering a massive gunfight. Anton reaches Leilani and tries to pull her away, but she pulls out the knife Koby gave her and repeatedly stabs Anton, killing him while screaming her hatred. Koby rushes to her side as she collapses. Afterward, at a hotel, Leilani spends an hour scrubbing Anton's blood from her skin. She confesses to Koby that she doesn't feel guilty about killing Anton and worries this makes her bad, but Koby reassures her it makes her brave.
Leilani realizes that killing Anton hasn't changed how she feels because she had already freed herself from his psychological control before his death. The trauma of her captivity remains, but she is finally physically free. Leilani and Koby have passionate sex, reaffirming their connection and commitment to each other. Koby reminds her of his promise to stay with her forever, and Leilani accepts this future together, finally able to begin healing with someone who loves and respects her autonomy.
Main Characters: Koby and Leilani
Spice level: 3/5
1st kiss: 46% a fuck it moment
1st actual sex scene: 47%
Pet names: Hellcat. Hated it.
Recap: Koby Maddox works as an enforcer in a criminal organization led by Carter Willard. He lives in a world of violence, torture, and mafia politics alongside his close associates Ryder, Broadway, and their respective partners. Koby's life changes when he becomes obsessed with Leilani Hale after encountering her only twice. Leilani appears to be trapped in a frightening relationship with a man named Jax, and Koby notices she seems scared and bears visible bruises. What Koby doesn't initially understand is the depth of Leilani's traumatic past.
Three years earlier, when Leilani was nearly sixteen, masked gunmen invaded her family home and killed her stepmother. Anton Grey, one of the intruders, killed his accomplices and forced Leilani's father into a deal: Leilani would belong to Anton in exchange for their lives. For nearly three years, Anton held Leilani captive in his apartment, systematically breaking down her identity by treating her like a small child or doll, controlling every aspect of her existence from what she wore and ate to how she spoke and behaved. He never sexually assaulted her, but instead inflicted psychological torture that nearly destroyed her sense of self. When Anton's brother Octavius discovered Anton had disobeyed orders to kill Leilani, he took her from Anton as punishment and eventually handed her to the sex trafficker Blaze Noretto, who assigned Jax to watch her. Koby's obsession with rescuing Leilani drives him to plant surveillance outside her hotel room, where he witnesses Jax's abuse. He breaks into the room and finds Leilani with a bruised face, holding a wine glass as a weapon against Jax. Koby knocks Jax unconscious and takes Leilani to Carter's house, though he cannot kill Jax due to valuable business negotiations. At Carter's house, Leilani initially tries to manipulate the situation to escape, but when she realizes Carter prioritizes his deal with Noretto over her safety, she attempts to flee.
The truth emerges: Anton still monitors Leilani through weekly video calls to ensure she remains
"safe and untouched," and if she disappears, he will hunt her down. Leilani chooses to stay with Koby rather than return to Jax. As Leilani settles into Koby's apartment, she gradually reveals the horrifying details of her captivity—how Anton dressed her in frilly dresses, fed her like a toddler, read her children's books, and punished any disobedience by locking her in a closet or torturing her father on video. She explains that Anton never raped her but did something "far worse" by systematically erasing her personality and autonomy.
Koby and Leilani develop an intense romantic and sexual relationship. Koby struggles with his desire to protect her while respecting her need for agency after years of control. Leilani experiences frequent panic attacks triggered by words, actions, or objects that remind her of Anton, sometimes violently attacking Koby during these episodes.
Despite this, their bond deepens as Koby proves himself different from her captors by giving her choices, space, and genuine care. Leilani must continue performing for Anton during their weekly video calls, adopting the submissive, childlike persona he expects while wearing the clothes he prefers. These calls leave her disoriented and struggling to maintain her recovered sense of self.
Meanwhile, Carter and his organization work on a plan to eliminate the Grey brothers, but they face a significant problem: killing Octavius without provocation would trigger a nationwide mafia war, as Octavius has accumulated substantial power and allies.
The group devises a strategy to use Leilani as bait to manipulate Anton into killing his own brother.
They plan to make Anton believe that Octavius failed to protect Leilani by having her appear at a sex trafficking auction looking abused and frightened. Koby initially refuses to allow Leilani to participate, but after she accuses him of controlling her like Anton did, he reluctantly agrees on the condition that she follows the plan exactly. The preparation involves Koby marking Leilani's body with hickeys to simulate abuse, knowing this will enrage Anton, who became unhinged at any imperfection on her skin during her captivity. Leilani makes a hysterical phone call to Anton, claiming she overheard plans to sell her at auction in Pittsburgh, successfully convincing him to drive fifteen hours to the location. The plan requires precise timing and psychological manipulation, exploiting Anton's obsessive need to protect Leilani as his possession.
At the sex trafficking auction, Leilani sits at the front with Octavius and Blaze while Koby and Ryder pose as Carter's representatives. Anton bursts in with armed men, demanding to know where Leilani is. When he sees the bruises on her body, he becomes enraged. As Octavius grabs Leilani, Anton shoots him in the head, triggering a massive gunfight. Anton reaches Leilani and tries to pull her away, but she pulls out the knife Koby gave her and repeatedly stabs Anton, killing him while screaming her hatred. Koby rushes to her side as she collapses. Afterward, at a hotel, Leilani spends an hour scrubbing Anton's blood from her skin. She confesses to Koby that she doesn't feel guilty about killing Anton and worries this makes her bad, but Koby reassures her it makes her brave.
Leilani realizes that killing Anton hasn't changed how she feels because she had already freed herself from his psychological control before his death. The trauma of her captivity remains, but she is finally physically free. Leilani and Koby have passionate sex, reaffirming their connection and commitment to each other. Koby reminds her of his promise to stay with her forever, and Leilani accepts this future together, finally able to begin healing with someone who loves and respects her autonomy.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 16, 2025
Thank you I.A Dice for allowing me an ARC copy of your latest book, I'm so grateful. It was an incredible read and has sealed Koby and Leilani as my second favourite couple in the Shadow Of Obsession series, after Carter and Hailey. This book marks the 10th book I've read by this author in less than two months and I know I will pick up any book this author writes.
December 31, 2025
4.5 stars
Finishing Keeping Leilani really drove home just how much I love the Shadows of Obsession series. This final book was such a strong ending overall, even if it did feel a little abrupt right at the end. I would have loved a fuller epilogue with a proper full cast moment to really wrap everything up, but that is honestly my only real complaint.
Koby and Leilani were a couple I had been desperate to get to ever since their early appearances, and this book absolutely delivered on that anticipation. From the start it was clear that Koby was completely gone for her in that instantly obsessed and overprotective way that defines so many of these men. What surprised me in the best way was the reveal that Leilani was manipulating him at first. I thought that might make me like her less, but instead it made me admire her even more once it became clear she was doing it to escape an unbearable situation. Her strength and willingness to use every tool available to survive made her such a compelling heroine.
Once she is finally safe, their relationship moves fast and intensely, but it made total sense for them. They become physical earlier than the other couples in the series, and that actually felt right because intimacy becomes another way for Leilani to reclaim control after being treated like an incapable child for so long. The chemistry between them is explosive, and the intimacy is some of the hottest in the entire series. It is raw and ferocious at times, but it fits who they are and what they have both endured.
One of my favourite parts of this book was watching Koby adjust his instincts around caring for her. Throughout the series, the men tend to show love through caretaking and physical tending, but Leilani’s trauma means that kind of attention is not always possible for her. Seeing Koby learn to love her in the ways she actually needs, rather than the ways he is used to, was such a powerful indicator of how deeply he cares.
The overarching plot also really came together here. So much of the series has been building toward taking down Octavius Grey, and I loved seeing that plan finally unfold. The strategy and execution were genuinely interesting, and I especially loved how involved Leilani was in it, even though it absolutely drove Koby insane because he wanted her far away from the danger. The moment where she kills the man who tortured her was incredibly cathartic and felt like a true reclamation of her power. It also quietly confirmed that she is just as unhinged as Koby in her own way, which makes them such a perfect match.
One unexpected highlight of finishing this series is how completely it sold me on Dante and Layla. Their relationship is not part of this series, but the way they are woven in made me instantly desperate to read their story next. That alone says a lot about how well this world has been built.
Overall, Keeping Leilani was a strong and emotionally satisfying conclusion to a series I ended up loving deeply. The characters, the relationships, the intensity, and the obsession all worked together to make something addictive and memorable. I genuinely do not know what I am going to do when I finally run out of I A Dice books, because this series reminded me exactly why I love everything she writes.
Finishing Keeping Leilani really drove home just how much I love the Shadows of Obsession series. This final book was such a strong ending overall, even if it did feel a little abrupt right at the end. I would have loved a fuller epilogue with a proper full cast moment to really wrap everything up, but that is honestly my only real complaint.
Koby and Leilani were a couple I had been desperate to get to ever since their early appearances, and this book absolutely delivered on that anticipation. From the start it was clear that Koby was completely gone for her in that instantly obsessed and overprotective way that defines so many of these men. What surprised me in the best way was the reveal that Leilani was manipulating him at first. I thought that might make me like her less, but instead it made me admire her even more once it became clear she was doing it to escape an unbearable situation. Her strength and willingness to use every tool available to survive made her such a compelling heroine.
Once she is finally safe, their relationship moves fast and intensely, but it made total sense for them. They become physical earlier than the other couples in the series, and that actually felt right because intimacy becomes another way for Leilani to reclaim control after being treated like an incapable child for so long. The chemistry between them is explosive, and the intimacy is some of the hottest in the entire series. It is raw and ferocious at times, but it fits who they are and what they have both endured.
One of my favourite parts of this book was watching Koby adjust his instincts around caring for her. Throughout the series, the men tend to show love through caretaking and physical tending, but Leilani’s trauma means that kind of attention is not always possible for her. Seeing Koby learn to love her in the ways she actually needs, rather than the ways he is used to, was such a powerful indicator of how deeply he cares.
The overarching plot also really came together here. So much of the series has been building toward taking down Octavius Grey, and I loved seeing that plan finally unfold. The strategy and execution were genuinely interesting, and I especially loved how involved Leilani was in it, even though it absolutely drove Koby insane because he wanted her far away from the danger. The moment where she kills the man who tortured her was incredibly cathartic and felt like a true reclamation of her power. It also quietly confirmed that she is just as unhinged as Koby in her own way, which makes them such a perfect match.
One unexpected highlight of finishing this series is how completely it sold me on Dante and Layla. Their relationship is not part of this series, but the way they are woven in made me instantly desperate to read their story next. That alone says a lot about how well this world has been built.
Overall, Keeping Leilani was a strong and emotionally satisfying conclusion to a series I ended up loving deeply. The characters, the relationships, the intensity, and the obsession all worked together to make something addictive and memorable. I genuinely do not know what I am going to do when I finally run out of I A Dice books, because this series reminded me exactly why I love everything she writes.
April 6, 2026
Keeping Leilani by I.A. Dice — 1.75/2⭐️
MMC: Koby Maddox - 25
FMC: Leilani Hale - 19 {HellCat}
🖤dark mafia romance
⛓️enemies to lovers
🖤crazy raging FMC
⛓️OTT morally grey MMC
This audiobook is narrated by Will Tulin and Verla Bond. I’ve never heard of these narrators before. This is the first time listening to them. I’m unsure why the original narrators didn’t finish out the series. This is told in both POVs. They weren’t terrible at narrating the story but they weren’t my favorites either.
This is the fifth book in the series. There’s an underlying back story so I would recommend starting with book one.
I absolutely loved Koby throughout the series and was so excited to finally listen to this book. After how Catching Bianca ended, I was so excited to meet his FMC who literally made him fall at first sight. Leilani uses people to get what she wants. She plays on Kobys weakness so he’ll rescue her. Whenever he does — she goes absolutely crazy! 🤪 it was kinda funny seeing her kick Kobys ass but she was a terrible person. This is where he gets her nickname from “hellcat”. She was isolated for three years. She’s always triggering and raging. Always fighting. Punching. Hitting and scratching Koby. I woulda left her alone. SMH. She didn’t want Koby to manipulate her but she manipulated him by beating the shit outta him to get what she wanted.
let’s talk about the ending of this book which is also the END of the series. I know this book didn’t just end that way. Seriously! The entire last few chapters were extremely rushed! There was NO epilogue. NO future look into the all of the couples. There was absolutely NOTHING! That ending ruined the entire book. SMH. I can’t believe I waited so long for this only to be completely disappointed. It’s like the author gave up at the end and the effort was gone. I hated this ending especially for ending out the entire series.
Narration: 4 ⭐️
Overall story: 2 ⭐️
Koby: 6+ ⭐️
MMC: Koby Maddox - 25
FMC: Leilani Hale - 19 {HellCat}
🖤dark mafia romance
⛓️enemies to lovers
🖤crazy raging FMC
⛓️OTT morally grey MMC
This audiobook is narrated by Will Tulin and Verla Bond. I’ve never heard of these narrators before. This is the first time listening to them. I’m unsure why the original narrators didn’t finish out the series. This is told in both POVs. They weren’t terrible at narrating the story but they weren’t my favorites either.
This is the fifth book in the series. There’s an underlying back story so I would recommend starting with book one.
I absolutely loved Koby throughout the series and was so excited to finally listen to this book. After how Catching Bianca ended, I was so excited to meet his FMC who literally made him fall at first sight. Leilani uses people to get what she wants. She plays on Kobys weakness so he’ll rescue her. Whenever he does — she goes absolutely crazy! 🤪 it was kinda funny seeing her kick Kobys ass but she was a terrible person. This is where he gets her nickname from “hellcat”. She was isolated for three years. She’s always triggering and raging. Always fighting. Punching. Hitting and scratching Koby. I woulda left her alone. SMH. She didn’t want Koby to manipulate her but she manipulated him by beating the shit outta him to get what she wanted.
let’s talk about the ending of this book which is also the END of the series. I know this book didn’t just end that way. Seriously! The entire last few chapters were extremely rushed! There was NO epilogue. NO future look into the all of the couples. There was absolutely NOTHING! That ending ruined the entire book. SMH. I can’t believe I waited so long for this only to be completely disappointed. It’s like the author gave up at the end and the effort was gone. I hated this ending especially for ending out the entire series.
Narration: 4 ⭐️
Overall story: 2 ⭐️
Koby: 6+ ⭐️
December 12, 2025
I expected so much more from Koby's book😭. This felt like it belonged to a different series.
The pacing was off. Definitely more instalove than the others in the series which I don't mind, but the relationship just seemed thrown at us.
The ending also seemed incomplete. What happened with Blaze and Carter's relationship after taking down Grey? Did Blaze hold his word ending the auctions/trafficking? Layla and Violet are both pregnant and we specifically hear about Violet's and Broadway's pregnancy for two books. It's basically known Hailey and Carter are getting married. I know this is Koby's book but with it being the end of the series I expected some kind of epilogue wrapping everyone's "situations" up for a full circle moment. Can we get a bbq with their toddlers running and the men chasing after them? Maybe a little glimpse of all the women's blossomed friendship? We didn't get much of Leilani with them like we did with Hailey, Bianca and Violet bonding in previous books. She mentioned a few times wondering if she'd fit in with this family & it'd have been nice to see her get that. I got no closure from anyone. The rest of the series was SO good and it's still a top favorite for sure but Keeping Leilani did not wrap it up well for me 😢
The pacing was off. Definitely more instalove than the others in the series which I don't mind, but the relationship just seemed thrown at us.
The ending also seemed incomplete. What happened with Blaze and Carter's relationship after taking down Grey? Did Blaze hold his word ending the auctions/trafficking? Layla and Violet are both pregnant and we specifically hear about Violet's and Broadway's pregnancy for two books. It's basically known Hailey and Carter are getting married. I know this is Koby's book but with it being the end of the series I expected some kind of epilogue wrapping everyone's "situations" up for a full circle moment. Can we get a bbq with their toddlers running and the men chasing after them? Maybe a little glimpse of all the women's blossomed friendship? We didn't get much of Leilani with them like we did with Hailey, Bianca and Violet bonding in previous books. She mentioned a few times wondering if she'd fit in with this family & it'd have been nice to see her get that. I got no closure from anyone. The rest of the series was SO good and it's still a top favorite for sure but Keeping Leilani did not wrap it up well for me 😢
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 26, 2025
Wow what a fabulous book. So much in line with the other 4 books and yet so different but in a good way.
Leilani is an amazing strong willed FMC. She has been to hell and back and is still standing tall. She doesn’t want Koby to treat her like a little breakable doll, but she wants him to fight her, argue, scream and make her feel every feeling to the fullest. She goes absolutely frantic and ballistic on his a$$, when he triggers a memory.
I absolutely adore her strength and fighter heart. What actually scared me (not really scared but you know) was the way she totally switched personality when she was within her captures reach. (Not spoiling anything more)
Koby on the other hand.. he wants to know everything about Leilani. He was mesmerized from the first time he laid eyes on her and now she is living in his apartment. He is walking in eggshells around her to not set her off.
The both want each other so much but is yet still so afraid to trigger or hurt the other person that i was actually yelling out loud when they said f*ck it! And oh my.. the fireworks these two set off. holy moly.. all their arguing and fighting was only a warm-up for sure.. 🌶️🔥
Leilani is an amazing strong willed FMC. She has been to hell and back and is still standing tall. She doesn’t want Koby to treat her like a little breakable doll, but she wants him to fight her, argue, scream and make her feel every feeling to the fullest. She goes absolutely frantic and ballistic on his a$$, when he triggers a memory.
I absolutely adore her strength and fighter heart. What actually scared me (not really scared but you know) was the way she totally switched personality when she was within her captures reach. (Not spoiling anything more)
Koby on the other hand.. he wants to know everything about Leilani. He was mesmerized from the first time he laid eyes on her and now she is living in his apartment. He is walking in eggshells around her to not set her off.
The both want each other so much but is yet still so afraid to trigger or hurt the other person that i was actually yelling out loud when they said f*ck it! And oh my.. the fireworks these two set off. holy moly.. all their arguing and fighting was only a warm-up for sure.. 🌶️🔥
December 3, 2025
Giuro.
Ero a tanto così 👌🏻 dal mettere 4 stelle.
Convintissima fino all'ultima pagina del mio voto perché ho proprio pensato "la storia d'amore è banale, ma è il primo dark romance in cui sono investita nella trama!"
Giuro è bella e ha perfettamente senso. Con una trama logica coerente e dei plot twist semplici ma inaspettati che ti tengono attaccata al libro.
Non è nulla di speciale, ma mi ero affezionata a tutti i personaggi e vi assicuro che i primi 4 libri erano lì lì tra le 3 e le 4 stelle. Infatti ero carichissima per quest'ultimo!
Poi giro l'ultima pagina e c'è scritto "I hope you enjoyed the book!"...... wtf? Ma in che senso???
Non si è concluso nulla. I due Greys sono morti e Koby e Leilani stanno insieme, ma il resto della storia??????
Nessun epilogo, nessun ultimo capitolo.... nulla.
Non vi dico quanto sono delusa. Eri stata bravissima fra e hai completamente rovinato tutto.
Bastava un capitolo in più con "3 mesi dopo" o qualcosa del genere.
Perché cazzo l'hai concluso così???
Delusa. Complimenti zia mi hai rovinato un'ottima storia.
Ero a tanto così 👌🏻 dal mettere 4 stelle.
Convintissima fino all'ultima pagina del mio voto perché ho proprio pensato "la storia d'amore è banale, ma è il primo dark romance in cui sono investita nella trama!"
Giuro è bella e ha perfettamente senso. Con una trama logica coerente e dei plot twist semplici ma inaspettati che ti tengono attaccata al libro.
Non è nulla di speciale, ma mi ero affezionata a tutti i personaggi e vi assicuro che i primi 4 libri erano lì lì tra le 3 e le 4 stelle. Infatti ero carichissima per quest'ultimo!
Poi giro l'ultima pagina e c'è scritto "I hope you enjoyed the book!"...... wtf? Ma in che senso???
Non si è concluso nulla. I due Greys sono morti e Koby e Leilani stanno insieme, ma il resto della storia??????
Nessun epilogo, nessun ultimo capitolo.... nulla.
Non vi dico quanto sono delusa. Eri stata bravissima fra e hai completamente rovinato tutto.
Bastava un capitolo in più con "3 mesi dopo" o qualcosa del genere.
Perché cazzo l'hai concluso così???
Delusa. Complimenti zia mi hai rovinato un'ottima storia.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 28, 2025
I have been anxiously waiting to finally read Koby’s story and it did not disappoint!
Koby is obsessed with Leilani from the moment he laid eyes upon her! She made her appearance at the end of Catching Bianca as a scared and abused girl. When the opportunity arises, Koby takes Leilani away from her abuser and keeps her safe. She has lived through unspeakable trauma and manipulates everyone around her, even the ones she (starts to) trust, to avoid going back to her abuser. Koby lets her heal in her own way while being there for her the whole time. He wants her happy, healthy and, most importantly, free. The storyline that started with Breaking Hailey ends in this book with a plot twist I did not see coming. The banter between Carter, Broadway, Ryder and Koby did not disappoint!
I.A. Dice is one of my favourite authors, she has a way of putting a story on paper that makes me stay up until the early hours to finish her books. I am sad that Shadows of Obsession came to an end but I am looking forward to her new book!
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Koby is obsessed with Leilani from the moment he laid eyes upon her! She made her appearance at the end of Catching Bianca as a scared and abused girl. When the opportunity arises, Koby takes Leilani away from her abuser and keeps her safe. She has lived through unspeakable trauma and manipulates everyone around her, even the ones she (starts to) trust, to avoid going back to her abuser. Koby lets her heal in her own way while being there for her the whole time. He wants her happy, healthy and, most importantly, free. The storyline that started with Breaking Hailey ends in this book with a plot twist I did not see coming. The banter between Carter, Broadway, Ryder and Koby did not disappoint!
I.A. Dice is one of my favourite authors, she has a way of putting a story on paper that makes me stay up until the early hours to finish her books. I am sad that Shadows of Obsession came to an end but I am looking forward to her new book!
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
January 2, 2026
✨️eARC Review✨️
5/5 ⭐️
2.5/5 🌶
Koby sees Leilani twice and is a man obsessed, intent on rescuing her without know what depraved things he's truly rescuing her from. Once he succeeds, he welcomes every bruise, scratch and hit if it means Leilani never has to live as a lifeless doll under someone else's power.
What a perfect ending to this series. While you think Leilani may be weak from the previous glimpses, she is such a strong FMC who had gone through so much to survive just like a lot of I.A.'s other FMCs. She gives Koby a run for his money but when she finally learns to soften for him, it's so sweet. Koby's inner monolgue is just as unhinged as his dialogue in previous books and watching him fall for someone he saw twice after making fun of the rest of the guys was the best. While I'm sad to see this series end, what a perfect book to end 2026 with. Congratulations to I.A. on becoming a trad published author! I can't wait to see what else she has in store!
Tropes:
✔️ Dark Mafia Romance
✔️ Morally Gray MMC
✔️ Hurt/Comfort
✔️ Forced Proximity
5/5 ⭐️
2.5/5 🌶
Koby sees Leilani twice and is a man obsessed, intent on rescuing her without know what depraved things he's truly rescuing her from. Once he succeeds, he welcomes every bruise, scratch and hit if it means Leilani never has to live as a lifeless doll under someone else's power.
What a perfect ending to this series. While you think Leilani may be weak from the previous glimpses, she is such a strong FMC who had gone through so much to survive just like a lot of I.A.'s other FMCs. She gives Koby a run for his money but when she finally learns to soften for him, it's so sweet. Koby's inner monolgue is just as unhinged as his dialogue in previous books and watching him fall for someone he saw twice after making fun of the rest of the guys was the best. While I'm sad to see this series end, what a perfect book to end 2026 with. Congratulations to I.A. on becoming a trad published author! I can't wait to see what else she has in store!
Tropes:
✔️ Dark Mafia Romance
✔️ Morally Gray MMC
✔️ Hurt/Comfort
✔️ Forced Proximity
December 3, 2025
Keeping Leilani by I.A. Dice absolutely delivered.
I’ve been obsessed with this series from book one, and once again—NOT disappointed.
Our MMC? Hot as sin. A former player who turns monogamous the second our fierce FMC walks into his life. We get all the goodies: touch-her-and-die, obsession, intense protectiveness, and a man who would burn the world down for his woman.
And Leilani? She earns that “hellcat” nickname. She’s bold, fiery, and strong as hell. Their relationship development is everything—and that “f*ck it” moment when he finally gives in? Chef’s kiss.
This was a solid ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ read for me, and I’d recommend it to all my Dark Mafia Romance girlies. And if you haven’t read the whole series yet… what are you even doing?
I’ve been obsessed with this series from book one, and once again—NOT disappointed.
Our MMC? Hot as sin. A former player who turns monogamous the second our fierce FMC walks into his life. We get all the goodies: touch-her-and-die, obsession, intense protectiveness, and a man who would burn the world down for his woman.
And Leilani? She earns that “hellcat” nickname. She’s bold, fiery, and strong as hell. Their relationship development is everything—and that “f*ck it” moment when he finally gives in? Chef’s kiss.
This was a solid ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ read for me, and I’d recommend it to all my Dark Mafia Romance girlies. And if you haven’t read the whole series yet… what are you even doing?
December 7, 2025
Tropes You’ll Find:
✨ Forced Proximity
✨ Billionaire
✨ Second Chance
✨ Brothers’ Best Friend
A Perfect Spicy Holiday Second Chance! 🎄❤️
What a lovely second chance romance! This was the perfect spicy, quick holiday read. Chase and Addison were meant to find their way back to each other and finally face the heartbreak and misunderstandings that tore them apart.
There’s nothing like a little forced proximity to rekindle old feelings and heal broken hearts! 💋
This story may be a bit different from Sadie’s usual writing style, but it’s every bit as good. She has a way of pulling you right into her characters’ emotions and making you care deeply about their journey. You’ll turn the last page smiling and wishing you could read it again for the first time.
✨ Forced Proximity
✨ Billionaire
✨ Second Chance
✨ Brothers’ Best Friend
A Perfect Spicy Holiday Second Chance! 🎄❤️
What a lovely second chance romance! This was the perfect spicy, quick holiday read. Chase and Addison were meant to find their way back to each other and finally face the heartbreak and misunderstandings that tore them apart.
There’s nothing like a little forced proximity to rekindle old feelings and heal broken hearts! 💋
This story may be a bit different from Sadie’s usual writing style, but it’s every bit as good. She has a way of pulling you right into her characters’ emotions and making you care deeply about their journey. You’ll turn the last page smiling and wishing you could read it again for the first time.
December 9, 2025
Okay, so I thought Broadway was my favorite… and he still might be, but Koby is dangerously close to taking the lead. His unwavering devotion, protectiveness, and the way he loves Leilani hits you right in the feels from start to finish.
I’ve loved this series for so long, and finally getting an in-depth look at who Koby really is felt like such a gift. Seeing his layers, his heart, and everything that drives him made this book impossible to put down.
I.A. Dice delivered another emotional, gripping, beautifully written installment—one that reminded me exactly why I fell in love with this world and these characters in the first place. Keeping Leilani is everything longtime fans could hope for and more.
Absolutely loved it. 💙
I’ve loved this series for so long, and finally getting an in-depth look at who Koby really is felt like such a gift. Seeing his layers, his heart, and everything that drives him made this book impossible to put down.
I.A. Dice delivered another emotional, gripping, beautifully written installment—one that reminded me exactly why I fell in love with this world and these characters in the first place. Keeping Leilani is everything longtime fans could hope for and more.
Absolutely loved it. 💙
December 14, 2025
3.75 ⭐
Honestly can't believe this series is now over!!
Kobys instant attraction was quite literally that, INSTANT and he was quick to find out that Leilani had claws.
I loved how even though she lashed out and reacted the way she did he always protected her and was just happy she was showing feelings after the hell she went through.
My fav bits was when he really took care of her while she was on her period. True fish out of water style but he sure gave it his all and of course when everyone was ribbing him for getting his ass handed to him by the Hellcat time and time again (especially Broadway).
Sad the series is over but I'm happy this was one of my 1st introductions into the darker side of romance. I will always recommend this series to anyone who asks (or doesn't)!!
Honestly can't believe this series is now over!!
Kobys instant attraction was quite literally that, INSTANT and he was quick to find out that Leilani had claws.
I loved how even though she lashed out and reacted the way she did he always protected her and was just happy she was showing feelings after the hell she went through.
My fav bits was when he really took care of her while she was on her period. True fish out of water style but he sure gave it his all and of course when everyone was ribbing him for getting his ass handed to him by the Hellcat time and time again (especially Broadway).
Sad the series is over but I'm happy this was one of my 1st introductions into the darker side of romance. I will always recommend this series to anyone who asks (or doesn't)!!
December 17, 2025
YOU DID IT AGAIN!!!! 😭🔥
After that WTF cliffhanger in Catching Bianca and leaving me absolutely feral for more… THIS is how you end the series?!
Koby and Leilani are straight-up explosive. Instalove? Maybe.
Obsession? Protection? Without question.
From the moment Koby lays eyes on Leilani, there’s this overwhelming need to protect her—no hesitation, no questions asked.
Leilani is hurt, shattered, reduced to a fraction of who she once was. The trauma she endured is heavy, heartbreaking, and written so well it hurts. And Koby? He abandons his playboy ways without a second thought, anchoring himself to her, feeding off her presence, and vowing to protect her at ALL COSTS.
Thank you IA Dice for this Advance Copy...
After that WTF cliffhanger in Catching Bianca and leaving me absolutely feral for more… THIS is how you end the series?!
Koby and Leilani are straight-up explosive. Instalove? Maybe.
Obsession? Protection? Without question.
From the moment Koby lays eyes on Leilani, there’s this overwhelming need to protect her—no hesitation, no questions asked.
Leilani is hurt, shattered, reduced to a fraction of who she once was. The trauma she endured is heavy, heartbreaking, and written so well it hurts. And Koby? He abandons his playboy ways without a second thought, anchoring himself to her, feeding off her presence, and vowing to protect her at ALL COSTS.
Thank you IA Dice for this Advance Copy...
November 26, 2025
If this is the book we have been waiting for, it was definitely worth the wait. Koby and Leilani were so right for each other.
After being rescued from years of captivity, Leilani strikes out but operator Koby is there to take all she can give.
Leilani is initially quiet, withdrawn, and scared of Koby and the other operators after all the abuse she had endured. But it's not till she realises Koby is in it with her that she allows him closer.
So well done. Omg this book was such a great read. The writing was easy read, the plot spell binding, and the characters certainly sold the story.
Can't wait for more from this author. Loved it!
After being rescued from years of captivity, Leilani strikes out but operator Koby is there to take all she can give.
Leilani is initially quiet, withdrawn, and scared of Koby and the other operators after all the abuse she had endured. But it's not till she realises Koby is in it with her that she allows him closer.
So well done. Omg this book was such a great read. The writing was easy read, the plot spell binding, and the characters certainly sold the story.
Can't wait for more from this author. Loved it!
December 4, 2025
This series has had a chokehold on me since the very first book and I can’t help but be sad that this is the last one however I couldn’t be more happy with how it ended. I knew from the beginning that Koby was gonna be my fav and he definitely didn’t disappoint me. The way he becomes obsessed with Leilani, helps her heal, and overall protective and possessiveness, the spice, everything was perfect. Their chemistry was instant hot and feral, I mean he literally looked at her once and said yep she’s mine. This series definitely turned out to be one of my favorites and I will miss the couples of Shadows of Obsessions but I cannot wait to see what the amazing I.A. Dice brings us next!
December 4, 2025
While it felt very similar in a lot of ways to the previous books, when it comes to the formula, the characters and the somewhat sexist dynamic between them, it was also a whole lot more… uncomfortable.
The whole baby-doll fetish this girl had to live through made me sick to my stomach.
Still, I don’t particularly enjoy books where women are just hopeless damsels in distress and their only job is to look pretty, while the men take care of business. It’s 2025, ffs.
I’m not gonna miss that series to the point that I don’t even care about the abrupt ending. Those characters didn’t feel real and relatable to begin with, but the plot made for a fun ride.
The whole baby-doll fetish this girl had to live through made me sick to my stomach.
Still, I don’t particularly enjoy books where women are just hopeless damsels in distress and their only job is to look pretty, while the men take care of business. It’s 2025, ffs.
I’m not gonna miss that series to the point that I don’t even care about the abrupt ending. Those characters didn’t feel real and relatable to begin with, but the plot made for a fun ride.
December 22, 2025
I absolutely loved this series, and I’ve been so curious about Koby’s story — Keeping Leilani did not disappoint. From the start, I was hooked.
Leilani’s journey is heartbreaking but also empowering, and I really loved watching her slowly reclaim her strength after everything she’s been through.
Koby is intense, protective, and completely gone for her, but what worked so well for me is that he never takes away her agency. Their chemistry is instant and spicy, with enough emotional depth to make it really hit. Koby was so gone for his Hellcat Leilani and it was everything.
As always, I loved the found family element — the guys’ banter had me smiling, the way the women band together was so satisfying, and being reunited with Dante and Layla again was a huge bonus. This was an emotional, addictive read and a great end to a brilliant series.
Leilani’s journey is heartbreaking but also empowering, and I really loved watching her slowly reclaim her strength after everything she’s been through.
Koby is intense, protective, and completely gone for her, but what worked so well for me is that he never takes away her agency. Their chemistry is instant and spicy, with enough emotional depth to make it really hit. Koby was so gone for his Hellcat Leilani and it was everything.
As always, I loved the found family element — the guys’ banter had me smiling, the way the women band together was so satisfying, and being reunited with Dante and Layla again was a huge bonus. This was an emotional, addictive read and a great end to a brilliant series.
November 27, 2025
This was such a satisfying read.
Leilani is quite the heroine. She has suffered greatly at the hands of a man who thinks he owns her, and desperate to escape she essentially cons Koby into rescuing her. She experiences rages brought on by her trauma triggers, and Koby goes feral for her when she lets her real sell fly. The progression of their relationship felt organic and his care for her filled all my hurt/comfort needs. The end is satisfying as hell.
All in all this is a solid read, this is a Dark Romance so heed the triggers, the FMC has been abused in her past.
Leilani is quite the heroine. She has suffered greatly at the hands of a man who thinks he owns her, and desperate to escape she essentially cons Koby into rescuing her. She experiences rages brought on by her trauma triggers, and Koby goes feral for her when she lets her real sell fly. The progression of their relationship felt organic and his care for her filled all my hurt/comfort needs. The end is satisfying as hell.
All in all this is a solid read, this is a Dark Romance so heed the triggers, the FMC has been abused in her past.
December 15, 2025
⭐⭐⭐⭐
ARC Review
Tropes:
Light Dark Rom-Com
Morally Grey Hero
Sassy FMC
Masked MMC
Primal Play
Stalker Romance
Found Family
OMG, this book was the perfect spicy, light dark rom-com! The spice literally starts in chapter 1!! 🤭
Everleigh (Ever) is a secretive girl looking for a one-night stand at her friend’s Halloween party. She ends up hooking up with a masked stranger who doesn’t even speak—yet it’s by far the hottest hookup she’s ever had. And to make things even better, she later finds out that the masked stranger was her stalker. 👀
Loche is just as secretive as Ever, with a darker side to his day job as a lawyer at his uncle’s firm. Plus, his favorite pastime is pushing Ever’s buttons. 😅
It’s been a while since I’ve read a dark romance, and this book was such a wonderful reintroduction—especially with all the comedy! It strikes a great balance between humor and darker elements without being a fully dark romance.
It was just as emotional as it was spicy and funny. The backstories of both characters were heartbreaking, but watching them find love in each other was beautiful. I’m obsessed with Loche being morally gray yet a total golden retriever when it comes to Ever. 🥹
There were a lot of pop-culture references in this book, and for me, they took away from the story and got a little annoying.
ARC Review
Tropes:
Light Dark Rom-Com
Morally Grey Hero
Sassy FMC
Masked MMC
Primal Play
Stalker Romance
Found Family
OMG, this book was the perfect spicy, light dark rom-com! The spice literally starts in chapter 1!! 🤭
Everleigh (Ever) is a secretive girl looking for a one-night stand at her friend’s Halloween party. She ends up hooking up with a masked stranger who doesn’t even speak—yet it’s by far the hottest hookup she’s ever had. And to make things even better, she later finds out that the masked stranger was her stalker. 👀
Loche is just as secretive as Ever, with a darker side to his day job as a lawyer at his uncle’s firm. Plus, his favorite pastime is pushing Ever’s buttons. 😅
It’s been a while since I’ve read a dark romance, and this book was such a wonderful reintroduction—especially with all the comedy! It strikes a great balance between humor and darker elements without being a fully dark romance.
It was just as emotional as it was spicy and funny. The backstories of both characters were heartbreaking, but watching them find love in each other was beautiful. I’m obsessed with Loche being morally gray yet a total golden retriever when it comes to Ever. 🥹
There were a lot of pop-culture references in this book, and for me, they took away from the story and got a little annoying.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 98 reviews