What do you think?
Rate this book
In Your Head
IN YOUR HEAD is a dark Thrilleromance that follows Renowned psychologist Dr. Katherine Pearson's journey through loss to love.
Genre: Contemporary Dark Romance
Blurb: The past had always haunted Dr. Katherine Pearson. Now, it has a face.
In the rain-drenched solitude of Greenwood, renowned Psychologist Katherine Pearson is forced to confront the demons she thought were long since buried. Haunted by the mysterious suicide of her father, she numbs herself one bottle at a time. But when a charming man from her past reappears, Katherine finds herself spiraling deeper into the shadows—facing both the threat of a killer and a searing hot desire. As Katherine’s family secrets unravel and reality starts to blur, questions still linger: What will Katherine uncover in the dark—and can she keep it all in her head?
Genre: Contemporary Dark Romance
Blurb: The past had always haunted Dr. Katherine Pearson. Now, it has a face.
In the rain-drenched solitude of Greenwood, renowned Psychologist Katherine Pearson is forced to confront the demons she thought were long since buried. Haunted by the mysterious suicide of her father, she numbs herself one bottle at a time. But when a charming man from her past reappears, Katherine finds herself spiraling deeper into the shadows—facing both the threat of a killer and a searing hot desire. As Katherine’s family secrets unravel and reality starts to blur, questions still linger: What will Katherine uncover in the dark—and can she keep it all in her head?
246 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 2, 2026
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
May 1, 2026
”You dug around in the corners of my head, Dr. Pearson… but now I know yours. Fear. One night. Quiet, ordinary… you’ll feel it. The breath before the scream. And you’ll know. You’ll know I’ve come to finish what you started.”
I was reluctant to dive into K. Hollow's book. I’m thankful I did, because I really wanted to support the author. And yes, I know I could’ve still supported her by continually lifting her up and bringing more visibility to In Your Head without reading it. There’s no doubt about that. But reading it would afford me the opportunity to finally try the romance genre, which had been a tentative goal of mine, ever since realizing a few years ago that I couldn’t give an opinion on the genre without trying it at least once. This was my introduction to dark romance, and my second romance novel in general.
Still, I remained undecided. After reading multiple reviews of it, I knew I had to read In Your Head. Those early reviewers made it clear that K.Hollow’s debut was more than met the eye. It was a lot more than the physical elements that the subgenre is known for. Though explicit, those scenes consisted of maybe ten percent of the whole. What’s more, they were written with a bold intentionality to propel the plot forward, while simultaneously satisfying those that read dark romance for those elements. There was a fine balance to find between the two, and she did a great job.
From start to finish, the author wrote with so much compassion and purpose. I can’t express how refreshing that was. She dedicated countless time and effort to craft and care for her characters. They never felt bland or predictable. The female protagonist, Katherine “Kat” Pearson, was guarded and bookish. I related to her in many ways—the most significant being that I, too, am grieving for a parent. My mom died almost a year ago, and even though the circumstances are a lot different, I felt the sense of profound loss, regret, anger, gratitude for the time we had together, and the childhood lessons which might not have happened if not for her. More than anything, I felt the conflicting emotions. They knocked me over, taking my breath away for a moment.
Zayne Bronwin, on the other hand, was also well-guarded, but with a flare for the unpredictable (he’s completely unhinged, really,) and whose love for Kat bordered on obsession. His POV chapters were some of my favorites to read, and I couldn’t get enough. I loved getting into his head, seeing his thought processes and worldview.
Being dark romance, Hollow took it, in full, to those dark and twisted places. And one of the most impactful ways she tapped into the macabre was two-sided: Kat and Zayn were on mental health journeys distinct to themselves. Similar, yes, but comparing them would be akin to calling their stories and obstances like black and white. (Please, if you’re thinking about reading In Your Head, be sure to check your triggers, which includes but aren’t limited to stalking, domestic violence, suicidal ideation, sexual assault, and murder.).
Entranced, I stride forward, out of the protection of the forest, moving like one of the long shadows shifting between the trees.
But then, I step perfectly across a brittle dried twig, snapping it and breaking the quiet spell of dusk.
The girl flutters her eyes open, turning to take me in.
Hollow did something unexpected when it came to the setting. Instead of writing about a large, bustling city akin to Seattle or Spokane, her locale, Greenwood, WA, felt relatively small, and the sprawling forest surrounding the bulk of the action felt—to me, at least—almost claustrophobic. Which isn’t to suggest it was a condensed area, because it wasn’t. Yet, Hollow captured the mysterious nature inherent in the forests of the Pacific-Northwest. She captured the dreary, rain-soaked vibes of the area (which seem symbolic of depression and mental health in general,) all the while showcasing the beautiful aspects of nature. Contrary to popular belief, it doesn’t always rain here. There are actually a lot of sunny days, too. The likenesses that she captured were like a vivid snapshot.
There were, however, a couple turn-of-events which were a bit predictable. Even when they were, Hollow took those scenarios and flipped them just enough to catch me off guard. I appreciate those choices for what they were. On at least one occasion, I literally said to myself, “Oh, wow. Didn’t see that coming. Not in that way, at least.” For instance, when Zayne did a certain thing to an unmentionable character (if you’ve read it, you’ll most likely know the scene I’m talking about,) I thought his actions were completely understandable, and frankly, said unmentionable character kind of got the least of what he had coming. And towards the end, a significant chain of events lands one of our characters in a major predicament, and I didn’t expect that at all. In hindsight, I probably should’ve, given the finely executed and effective foreshadowing. The way they worked was two-fold, and I love when an author can make it work on multiple levels. But were the clues a little too subtle? I’m not sure. It could be an entirely subjective thing, because a few other readers were seemingly very aware of that particular aspect of the plot. And I don’t always think clearly, so the issue was most likely subjective. Nevertheless, the plot itself could’ve been made more intense if there had been more emphasis on said threat.
My favorite part of In Your Head was the saccharine connection between Zayne and Kat. Reading about their complicated history and his softness towards her was a lot of fun. I can’t stress how much I adore him for his feelings for her. But, more to the point: my absolute favorite part was the extremely impressive character development of both. Kat’s arc, in particular, made me so giddy inside, and I couldn’t be more proud. Unlike many books I’ve read, the payoff was actually earned and satisfying.
”Welll first of all, please shut up, because I love you. Second of all, who says he has to be in his right mind? The right one will love you for exactly who you are—including all your dark and twisty bits. Maybe even more so because of them.
The author wasn’t done yet. In the last ten or so pages, we get a bonus chapter in the form of a POV from Rae. She’s Kat’s sibling, and in a lot of ways, they couldn’t be more different. From her questionable profession, to her opinions about their deceased father, and beyond, Rae was a character that went from being abrasive to one that I came to like by the last page. And I’m really eager to learn more about her in Book Two.
Overall, K. Hollow did a fantastic job writing In Your Head. The setting, character development, and themes (mental health representation being very near and dear to my heart,) were done exceptionally well. The countless hours spent writing, rewriting, and the care necessary to bring her vision to life in a big way were made clear on every page. Her prose pulled me in from the first sentence, and I had to know more. Despite my minimal critiques, I still love this book. I can’t NOT rate it lower than 4.5 stars.
And once again, before I wrap this up, please make sure to check those triggers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
okay listen, I'm not a dirty person but I literally had to force myself to stop reading so I could go take a shower. this is the perfect blend of spice and suspense. It brought back all the atmospheric feels of Twilight while instantly falling in love with Katherine the FMC who is so relatable. Zayn is literally the definition of tall dark and handsome AND he cooks, in the kitchen and in the bedroom. 😉
Dr. Katherine Pearson is a psychologist who returns to the PNW after her father's death. Zayn is the son of the groundskeeper of Katherine's father's estate and unbeknownst to her, her long time stalker. but not in the creepy way, in the - I love you, I care about you, I promised your father I would look after you - kind of way. Zayn weaves his way into the doc's life and always shows up in the right place as the right time.
I really don't want to say too much as I don't want to spoil anything for you, just go pre-order the book you won't be disappointed.
Thank you K. Hollow for letting me read this as an ARC
Dr. Katherine Pearson is a psychologist who returns to the PNW after her father's death. Zayn is the son of the groundskeeper of Katherine's father's estate and unbeknownst to her, her long time stalker. but not in the creepy way, in the - I love you, I care about you, I promised your father I would look after you - kind of way. Zayn weaves his way into the doc's life and always shows up in the right place as the right time.
I really don't want to say too much as I don't want to spoil anything for you, just go pre-order the book you won't be disappointed.
Thank you K. Hollow for letting me read this as an ARC
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was honestly, not sure of this book at first, there were times when I got really invested and others that I was as much, until about the 70-75% mark and then I was all in, I couldn't put it down. I'm excited for what more is to come.
May 4, 2026
If you love a stalker/psychological romance. This is for you!
Really enjoyed this love story! Loved the thrilling parts just as much as the love story. Cant wait for the next
Really enjoyed this love story! Loved the thrilling parts just as much as the love story. Cant wait for the next
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received a gifted e-arc from the author and am leaving my review voluntarily!
A DARK ROMANCE NOVEL
THE 'IN TREATMENT' SERIES
This book is everything you want from a dark romance. The desire,the need, the poor choices.haha. Everyone wants the man who will burn the world for you. Zayn would burn the world and thenbury it too for good measure. With I no spoilers,l would say that this book is the perfect fit for anyone, like me, who loves the man who will do anything to protect the woman he loves. This also has some thriller elenents that are sure to leave you .
A DARK ROMANCE NOVEL
THE 'IN TREATMENT' SERIES
This book is everything you want from a dark romance. The desire,the need, the poor choices.haha. Everyone wants the man who will burn the world for you. Zayn would burn the world and thenbury it too for good measure. With I no spoilers,l would say that this book is the perfect fit for anyone, like me, who loves the man who will do anything to protect the woman he loves. This also has some thriller elenents that are sure to leave you .
March 7, 2026
Loved this thrilling dark romance!! Such a fun read!
January 23, 2026
✨ Review: In Your Head ✨
Tropes x Triggers: Dark romance, stalking, deception, morally gray characters, psychological x mental health elements, kidnapping, murder, psychiatry, fast burn, suicide.
What It’s About
This one follows Kat, a psychiatrist trying to hold herself together after her father’s suicide. When she moves back to her father’s estate, she starts to see Zayn everywhere - he has been watching her, protecting her, and loving her since childhood. When her life starts to unravel, he stays close on purpose and slowly finds his way into her life. Is it love or is it obsession?
What I Liked
This book felt genuinely different from most dark romances I’ve read. I loved how the author wove psychological and mental health elements into the story in a way that felt thoughtful instead of performative. There were so many twists, the pacing was fast, and for a shorter book, a lot happens. It was action-packed but still emotional, and I was fully locked in the whole time.
What I Didn’t Like
Very little, honestly. I would have love to learn a little bit more about Zayn’s history, what he has been doing for all the years Kat was in Seattle. I would have also loved the author to explore more between Kat and her sister’s strained relationship.
Overall Thoughts
This was intense, smart, and really well done. It made me anticipate while still being engaging and fast-paced. I loved the journey, and I’d absolutely recommend it to my followers who like dark romance with depth.
Rating ⭐️: 4.5/5
Spice 🔥: 4/5
Tropes x Triggers: Dark romance, stalking, deception, morally gray characters, psychological x mental health elements, kidnapping, murder, psychiatry, fast burn, suicide.
What It’s About
This one follows Kat, a psychiatrist trying to hold herself together after her father’s suicide. When she moves back to her father’s estate, she starts to see Zayn everywhere - he has been watching her, protecting her, and loving her since childhood. When her life starts to unravel, he stays close on purpose and slowly finds his way into her life. Is it love or is it obsession?
What I Liked
This book felt genuinely different from most dark romances I’ve read. I loved how the author wove psychological and mental health elements into the story in a way that felt thoughtful instead of performative. There were so many twists, the pacing was fast, and for a shorter book, a lot happens. It was action-packed but still emotional, and I was fully locked in the whole time.
What I Didn’t Like
Very little, honestly. I would have love to learn a little bit more about Zayn’s history, what he has been doing for all the years Kat was in Seattle. I would have also loved the author to explore more between Kat and her sister’s strained relationship.
Overall Thoughts
This was intense, smart, and really well done. It made me anticipate while still being engaging and fast-paced. I loved the journey, and I’d absolutely recommend it to my followers who like dark romance with depth.
Rating ⭐️: 4.5/5
Spice 🔥: 4/5
February 14, 2026
Tropes: Dark Romance, Stalking, he falls first, fast burn, obsessed MMC, reconnecting MC, touch her and die, morally Grey MMC, Haunted FMC, psychiatrist FMC,
In Your Head is a hauntingly beautiful blend of dark romance and psychological thriller that kept me looking over my shoulder. Set against the moody, rain-soaked backdrop of the Pacific Northwest, K. Hollow weaves a tale of grief and obsession that feels as intoxicating as it is unsettling.
The story follows Dr. Katherine Pearson, a psychiatrist fleeing a heavy past involving a serial killer case and her father’s tragic suicide. Seeking peace, she moves into her father’s old home to start a private practice—only to find that the past isn’t finished with her just yet…… When in walks Zayn, the brooding ex-Marine turned gardener who has known Kat since childhood and has no intention of letting her go this time…..
The chemistry here is thrilling. Zayn is the ultimate morally gray hero—obsessive, intense, and deeply protective. Their connection is fueled by high-stakes "spice" that never feels gratuitous; it’s essential to their complex emotional bond. Between the designer heels, the gothic estate, and the shocking revelations about Kat’s family, I was hooked from chapter one. If you love a story where the line between desire and danger is razor-thin, this is a must-read.
In Your Head is a hauntingly beautiful blend of dark romance and psychological thriller that kept me looking over my shoulder. Set against the moody, rain-soaked backdrop of the Pacific Northwest, K. Hollow weaves a tale of grief and obsession that feels as intoxicating as it is unsettling.
The story follows Dr. Katherine Pearson, a psychiatrist fleeing a heavy past involving a serial killer case and her father’s tragic suicide. Seeking peace, she moves into her father’s old home to start a private practice—only to find that the past isn’t finished with her just yet…… When in walks Zayn, the brooding ex-Marine turned gardener who has known Kat since childhood and has no intention of letting her go this time…..
The chemistry here is thrilling. Zayn is the ultimate morally gray hero—obsessive, intense, and deeply protective. Their connection is fueled by high-stakes "spice" that never feels gratuitous; it’s essential to their complex emotional bond. Between the designer heels, the gothic estate, and the shocking revelations about Kat’s family, I was hooked from chapter one. If you love a story where the line between desire and danger is razor-thin, this is a must-read.
Read
December 11, 2025After months of getting glimpses into Kat’s story, I was profoundly lucky to be able to immerse myself into her world in a single afternoon and into the evening. Her grief, her quiet longing, and her self-imposed solitude grabbed me from the very beginning.
Perfectly situated in the Pacific Northwest, the atmosphere reads dreary and wet just like the main character. Wet? Yes. Because the connection between her and Zayn leaves little to the imagination and much to anticipate. Boiling sensuality and lust tip over into a love that rides the rest of the story. Zayn matches her darkness in a way that’s sometimes comforting and other times terrifying and yet, that quiet storm can’t be denied as you cheer him on.
The story climaxes with a different Kat — changed in ways she didn’t expect — and leaves you feeling more than satisfied. That is to say, maybe wanting the story to continue with just one more bedroom tryst.
Perfectly situated in the Pacific Northwest, the atmosphere reads dreary and wet just like the main character. Wet? Yes. Because the connection between her and Zayn leaves little to the imagination and much to anticipate. Boiling sensuality and lust tip over into a love that rides the rest of the story. Zayn matches her darkness in a way that’s sometimes comforting and other times terrifying and yet, that quiet storm can’t be denied as you cheer him on.
The story climaxes with a different Kat — changed in ways she didn’t expect — and leaves you feeling more than satisfied. That is to say, maybe wanting the story to continue with just one more bedroom tryst.
January 6, 2026
GUYS! THIS BOOK IS SO GOSH DARN GOOD!
I usually take awhile to “warm up” to a book, but I was sucked in by the end of the prologue here.
Hollow has a talent for atmospheric writing without making the prose too heavy or complex. It makes for an easy and immersive read!
And let’s talk about that MMC! Omg! The way this man had me blushing, swooning, giggling, and laughing. His POV’s are an absolute treat, and balance so well with the FMC’s.
This book reminded me of Lights Out in its balance between cozy/fun and suspense/dark. Sometimes my heart was racing, sometimes I was kicking my feeties, sometimes I was cuddling my cat and feeling the warm fuzzies.
Definitely worth a read! Very excited for the next book in the series!
I usually take awhile to “warm up” to a book, but I was sucked in by the end of the prologue here.
Hollow has a talent for atmospheric writing without making the prose too heavy or complex. It makes for an easy and immersive read!
And let’s talk about that MMC! Omg! The way this man had me blushing, swooning, giggling, and laughing. His POV’s are an absolute treat, and balance so well with the FMC’s.
This book reminded me of Lights Out in its balance between cozy/fun and suspense/dark. Sometimes my heart was racing, sometimes I was kicking my feeties, sometimes I was cuddling my cat and feeling the warm fuzzies.
Definitely worth a read! Very excited for the next book in the series!
March 11, 2026
addicting, fast-paced & sexy read. Zayn is my new favorite book boyfriend and kat is a baddie. her darkness was so relatable. I gasped. I cried. I swooned.
January 19, 2026
In Your Head is a dark, atmospheric thriller romance that blurs the line between desire and danger that feels both intoxicating and unsettling. Set in the rain-soaked Pacific Northwest, the story follows Dr. Katherine Pearson as she navigates grief, buried trauma, and a past that refuses to stay hidden. The setting mirrors Kat’s internal unraveling perfectly. I can’t imagine how I would feel with the revelation that the death of someone dear to me was much darker than I imagined.
The relationship between Kat and Zayn is intense, complicated. Zayn’s obsessive, morally gray presence adds a constant psychological tension that had me questioning his motives. What I wouldn’t give to have a hot ex-Marine obsessed with me for YEARS. The spice is SO good.🤌🔥It’s generous but never overpowering; instead, it fuels their emotional connections perfectly.
What truly stood out was how seamlessly the romance, thriller elements, and themes of trauma and healing were woven together. This book didn’t lean too far in either direction, so it was a perfect, gloomy, rainy, dark, thrilleromance wrapped in an amazing gothic house of your dreams & designer heels.👠 After the first chapter I was fully invested in Kat and eager to see where her story went next.
If you enjoy dark romance or thrillers, congratulations, you get both! Even better, it’s the first book in a series, so that means we’ll get MORE!🎉 This one is absolutely worth your time.
Thank you so much K. Hollow for the privilege of reading your ARC!
The relationship between Kat and Zayn is intense, complicated. Zayn’s obsessive, morally gray presence adds a constant psychological tension that had me questioning his motives. What I wouldn’t give to have a hot ex-Marine obsessed with me for YEARS. The spice is SO good.🤌🔥It’s generous but never overpowering; instead, it fuels their emotional connections perfectly.
What truly stood out was how seamlessly the romance, thriller elements, and themes of trauma and healing were woven together. This book didn’t lean too far in either direction, so it was a perfect, gloomy, rainy, dark, thrilleromance wrapped in an amazing gothic house of your dreams & designer heels.👠 After the first chapter I was fully invested in Kat and eager to see where her story went next.
If you enjoy dark romance or thrillers, congratulations, you get both! Even better, it’s the first book in a series, so that means we’ll get MORE!🎉 This one is absolutely worth your time.
Thank you so much K. Hollow for the privilege of reading your ARC!
Review of advance copy
I received a copy of this for my honest review
In this story our FMC comes to love on the house her father unalived himself in. She is a psychiatrist, who used to work for the state, but after a serial unaliver case and her father, she moved and started her own practice to see less aggressive patients. Our MMC lives just beyond that house , and actually is the gardener for it. They knew each other as kids when she would visit, but now that she is here, he isn't going to let her get away. She is afraid of opening up to anyone, and he carries some secrets that he's hoping won't matter as much if she is already in love with him
In this story our FMC comes to love on the house her father unalived himself in. She is a psychiatrist, who used to work for the state, but after a serial unaliver case and her father, she moved and started her own practice to see less aggressive patients. Our MMC lives just beyond that house , and actually is the gardener for it. They knew each other as kids when she would visit, but now that she is here, he isn't going to let her get away. She is afraid of opening up to anyone, and he carries some secrets that he's hoping won't matter as much if she is already in love with him
December 15, 2025
Absolutely ate this book up. I loved the characters, the spice and the storyline!
Review of advance copy
I loved this book! The chemistry between Kat and Zayn was electric, they definitely went through some hurdles but The ending was absolutely perfect! The spice was EXCEPTIONAL!!! Overall an unforgettable book xo
Review of advance copy received from Author
3.25 ⭐️
In Your Head pulled me in immediately. The prologue is both kismet-laced and deeply unnerving in context, and the opening chapters drop the reader straight into Katherine Pearson’s grief-hazed isolation with confidence. The decision to place her in the very room where her father died, paired with her self-diagnosis, emotional numbing, and subtle hints of suicidal ideation, creates a compelling and uncomfortable contrast with her professional identity as a psychologist. From the start, there’s a strong sense that something is off in the best possible way.
One of the most effective moments early on is the flower callback to the prologue. Kat’s instinctive decision to press it between the pages of her book without fully understanding why *chef's kiss*. That sense of déjà vu and subconscious recognition was beautifully handled and genuinely memorable.
That said, Act 1 struggled with pacing and emotional distance for me. Much of the early narrative relies heavily on internal monologue and sequential reporting—I did this, I thought this, here’s a reminder that I’m struggling—which caused momentum to stall. Rather than letting us see Kat through action, choice, and interaction, the story often tells us who she is, either through her own narration or how Bea talks about her to her. As a result, I found myself feeling oddly detached from her, despite the intimacy of the POV.
There are also noticeable gaps in where and when we’re allowed access to Kat’s life, particularly her professional world, which initially felt disorienting. I wondered if this was intentional, perhaps a way of positioning readers to observe only what Kat’s stalker can observe? However, the lack of early context clues about the intersection of Kat's work and her personal trauma made it harder to fully understand the roots of her nightmares, her fixation on death, or the depth of unease surrounding her living alone.
When Zayn’s POV enters the story, everything sharpens. Chapter 6 was a turning point for me and easily the strongest chapter in Act 1. Zayn feels fully realized, grounded, and purposeful, and through his eyes, Kat finally comes into focus as a more dimensional character. His chapters consistently felt more engaging, and the chemistry, banter, and tension between them began to feel earned once both perspectives were regularly in play.
Act 2 benefits from increased momentum. The danger escalates, the stalker threats clarify, and the dynamic between Kat and Zayn becomes genuinely compelling. Their irritation, attraction, and mutual pull are well done here. However, much of the plot and romantic tension resolves a bit too quickly. I found myself wishing certain moments had more time to simmer, while other scenes lingered without adding forward motion which created an uneven sense of urgency.
The final act is where the story felt most rushed. While the comeuppance and reveals are satisfying in concept, key moments unfold too quickly to fully land. Several revelations raised questions I wanted more time with, rather than answers delivered at speed.
From a craft/style perspective, the prose sometimes lacks rhythmic variation, leaning heavily into straightforward subject–action sentence construction, which occasionally hindered immersion. Dialogue formatting and pacing also made some scenes harder to follow, requiring rereads to reorient speakers and emotional beats. The story has all the right elements, but finessing the connective tissue between those beats would allow tension to fully build before release and draw the reader in deeper.
That said, In Your Head is undeniably compelling. It checks many of the boxes dark romance readers look for: an obsessive, morally gray MMC; psychological tension; kink-forward intimacy; and layered danger beyond the romance itself. Despite my challenges with pacing and immersion, I was desperate to know what happened next—to Kat, to Zayn, and to the secrets buried beneath her father’s death—and that speaks to the strength of the premise and the pull of the story.
TL;DR: An addictive debut with an intriguing premise, an excellent MMC POV, and genuine dark romance appeal—but uneven pacing and rushed resolutions kept it from fully delivering on its potential for me.
In Your Head pulled me in immediately. The prologue is both kismet-laced and deeply unnerving in context, and the opening chapters drop the reader straight into Katherine Pearson’s grief-hazed isolation with confidence. The decision to place her in the very room where her father died, paired with her self-diagnosis, emotional numbing, and subtle hints of suicidal ideation, creates a compelling and uncomfortable contrast with her professional identity as a psychologist. From the start, there’s a strong sense that something is off in the best possible way.
One of the most effective moments early on is the flower callback to the prologue. Kat’s instinctive decision to press it between the pages of her book without fully understanding why *chef's kiss*. That sense of déjà vu and subconscious recognition was beautifully handled and genuinely memorable.
That said, Act 1 struggled with pacing and emotional distance for me. Much of the early narrative relies heavily on internal monologue and sequential reporting—I did this, I thought this, here’s a reminder that I’m struggling—which caused momentum to stall. Rather than letting us see Kat through action, choice, and interaction, the story often tells us who she is, either through her own narration or how Bea talks about her to her. As a result, I found myself feeling oddly detached from her, despite the intimacy of the POV.
There are also noticeable gaps in where and when we’re allowed access to Kat’s life, particularly her professional world, which initially felt disorienting. I wondered if this was intentional, perhaps a way of positioning readers to observe only what Kat’s stalker can observe? However, the lack of early context clues about the intersection of Kat's work and her personal trauma made it harder to fully understand the roots of her nightmares, her fixation on death, or the depth of unease surrounding her living alone.
When Zayn’s POV enters the story, everything sharpens. Chapter 6 was a turning point for me and easily the strongest chapter in Act 1. Zayn feels fully realized, grounded, and purposeful, and through his eyes, Kat finally comes into focus as a more dimensional character. His chapters consistently felt more engaging, and the chemistry, banter, and tension between them began to feel earned once both perspectives were regularly in play.
Act 2 benefits from increased momentum. The danger escalates, the stalker threats clarify, and the dynamic between Kat and Zayn becomes genuinely compelling. Their irritation, attraction, and mutual pull are well done here. However, much of the plot and romantic tension resolves a bit too quickly. I found myself wishing certain moments had more time to simmer, while other scenes lingered without adding forward motion which created an uneven sense of urgency.
The final act is where the story felt most rushed. While the comeuppance and reveals are satisfying in concept, key moments unfold too quickly to fully land. Several revelations raised questions I wanted more time with, rather than answers delivered at speed.
From a craft/style perspective, the prose sometimes lacks rhythmic variation, leaning heavily into straightforward subject–action sentence construction, which occasionally hindered immersion. Dialogue formatting and pacing also made some scenes harder to follow, requiring rereads to reorient speakers and emotional beats. The story has all the right elements, but finessing the connective tissue between those beats would allow tension to fully build before release and draw the reader in deeper.
That said, In Your Head is undeniably compelling. It checks many of the boxes dark romance readers look for: an obsessive, morally gray MMC; psychological tension; kink-forward intimacy; and layered danger beyond the romance itself. Despite my challenges with pacing and immersion, I was desperate to know what happened next—to Kat, to Zayn, and to the secrets buried beneath her father’s death—and that speaks to the strength of the premise and the pull of the story.
TL;DR: An addictive debut with an intriguing premise, an excellent MMC POV, and genuine dark romance appeal—but uneven pacing and rushed resolutions kept it from fully delivering on its potential for me.
January 16, 2026
This story is a heady mix of moody atmosphere, slow-burn tension, and dangerously addictive romance that immediately pulled me in. It carries that same brooding, rain-drenched Pacific Northwest energy that made Twilight so immersive, but with a much darker, more mature edge. I connected instantly with Katherine as a main character—flawed, grieving, intelligent, and emotionally raw. And Zayn? He is every fantasy wrapped into one morally gray enigma: magnetic, skilled with his hands in more ways than one, and impossible to ignore.
After losing her father, Dr. Katherine Pearson retreats to the isolated estate where she once spent her childhood summers, hoping distance will help her process both grief and the lingering fear left behind by a threatening former patient. What she doesn’t expect is how deeply the past still has its claws in her. As she rebuilds her life and practice in this quiet town, someone from her history reappears—always present, always watching, always seeming to know exactly what she needs before she does.
Zayn is woven into Katherine’s world so seamlessly that it feels almost inevitable. Their connection is intense from the start, charged with unspoken history and unsettling devotion. His fixation toes an uncomfortable line between protection and possession, creating a constant undercurrent of unease that works brilliantly with the psychological suspense. I found myself questioning his intentions, Katherine’s perceptions, and even my own comfort level as a reader—and that’s what made it so compelling.
The romance is undeniably steamy, but it never overshadows the plot. Instead, the intimacy heightens the danger, blurring the boundaries between desire, control, and trust. Beneath the passion lies a mystery tied to Katherine’s father, secrets buried within the estate, and truths that slowly unravel as she digs deeper—sometimes against her better judgment. Katherine herself isn’t innocent or fragile; she carries her own darkness, which makes her reactions and choices feel realistic and earned.
By the final stretch, the story becomes impossible to put down. Revelations hit hard, especially those involving her estranged sister, and the ending left my heart racing and my jaw on the floor. This is the kind of book that lingers in your mind long after you’ve finished—haunting, provocative, and emotionally charged. If you love dark romance layered with psychological intrigue, obsession, and characters who live in the gray, this one is absolutely unmissable.
After losing her father, Dr. Katherine Pearson retreats to the isolated estate where she once spent her childhood summers, hoping distance will help her process both grief and the lingering fear left behind by a threatening former patient. What she doesn’t expect is how deeply the past still has its claws in her. As she rebuilds her life and practice in this quiet town, someone from her history reappears—always present, always watching, always seeming to know exactly what she needs before she does.
Zayn is woven into Katherine’s world so seamlessly that it feels almost inevitable. Their connection is intense from the start, charged with unspoken history and unsettling devotion. His fixation toes an uncomfortable line between protection and possession, creating a constant undercurrent of unease that works brilliantly with the psychological suspense. I found myself questioning his intentions, Katherine’s perceptions, and even my own comfort level as a reader—and that’s what made it so compelling.
The romance is undeniably steamy, but it never overshadows the plot. Instead, the intimacy heightens the danger, blurring the boundaries between desire, control, and trust. Beneath the passion lies a mystery tied to Katherine’s father, secrets buried within the estate, and truths that slowly unravel as she digs deeper—sometimes against her better judgment. Katherine herself isn’t innocent or fragile; she carries her own darkness, which makes her reactions and choices feel realistic and earned.
By the final stretch, the story becomes impossible to put down. Revelations hit hard, especially those involving her estranged sister, and the ending left my heart racing and my jaw on the floor. This is the kind of book that lingers in your mind long after you’ve finished—haunting, provocative, and emotionally charged. If you love dark romance layered with psychological intrigue, obsession, and characters who live in the gray, this one is absolutely unmissable.
February 2, 2026
✨Arc Review ✨. In Your Head by K. Hollow
This book is hands down a 6🌟 read. It’s alluring, captivating eerie, heart felt, and has you left in all of your feelings. I fell in love with these characters and their story. This author’s writing was seamless from start to finish. I absolutely loved the mental health representation especially with men’s mental health, which I feel always gets overlooked.
The story between Zayne and Kat was so beautiful and truly came full circle They both had their own trauma and baggage, but it was really beautiful to see when you finally open up yourself to someone and let your guard down to trust them. I love that it showed them at a young age and then also years later.
This book had all of the things that I love most. A cinnamon roll MMC yet he would burn the world down and unalive anyone who harms the one he loves. I was swooning for this man, curling my toes, sometimes even moaning at his words and the intense stare she put to life with her words , and laughing at his sarcasm and wit. His yearning and pining was top tier! The way this man showcased consent and how important it was, I bow down to this author and thank you for showcasing that.
I’ll never look at a letter opener the same again, iykyk😈😈
I can relate very well to the FMC. Always keeping people at arms length and never wanting to open up or trust anyone. Wondering if anyone will love you after seeing all of your broken pieces and wondering if you’re worthy of that love. I loved her inner monologues and was able to relate to her so well and see myself in her. Her character growth was everything 🥰.
This book has it all. Desire, spice, mystery, mental health, awareness, and the most beautiful dark romance vibe. I cannot rave enough about this book and even more excited for the next book. It is an honor to be your arc reader 🖤
This book is hands down a 6🌟 read. It’s alluring, captivating eerie, heart felt, and has you left in all of your feelings. I fell in love with these characters and their story. This author’s writing was seamless from start to finish. I absolutely loved the mental health representation especially with men’s mental health, which I feel always gets overlooked.
The story between Zayne and Kat was so beautiful and truly came full circle They both had their own trauma and baggage, but it was really beautiful to see when you finally open up yourself to someone and let your guard down to trust them. I love that it showed them at a young age and then also years later.
This book had all of the things that I love most. A cinnamon roll MMC yet he would burn the world down and unalive anyone who harms the one he loves. I was swooning for this man, curling my toes, sometimes even moaning at his words and the intense stare she put to life with her words , and laughing at his sarcasm and wit. His yearning and pining was top tier! The way this man showcased consent and how important it was, I bow down to this author and thank you for showcasing that.
I’ll never look at a letter opener the same again, iykyk😈😈
I can relate very well to the FMC. Always keeping people at arms length and never wanting to open up or trust anyone. Wondering if anyone will love you after seeing all of your broken pieces and wondering if you’re worthy of that love. I loved her inner monologues and was able to relate to her so well and see myself in her. Her character growth was everything 🥰.
This book has it all. Desire, spice, mystery, mental health, awareness, and the most beautiful dark romance vibe. I cannot rave enough about this book and even more excited for the next book. It is an honor to be your arc reader 🖤
January 30, 2026
K. Hollow sucked me into her story from the very first line and managed to keep my attention until the very last. It was emotional, captivating, and at times frightening. I love it when an author can make me switch between emotions as quickly as she did!
The story is well-paced and engaging, written in a way that’s easy to follow, even if you’re not a native English speaker. Although you can predict the general direction the story is going, K. Hollow still managed to surprise me more than once. It’s truly amazing how she intertwined every piece of information and made it all fit together in the end.
About the MCs. Katherine is a therapist who used to work for the state but returns home to Greenwood after her father dies. She starts a new practice in the city while battling her own mental health issues. Zayn is an ex-Marine who grew up on the Pearson estate with his parents. After leaving the military, he returns to the house and becomes the groundskeeper of Pearson House. He’s always had a soft spot for Katherine and would do anything to keep her safe. Anything.
Although I love how K. Hollow portrayed both MCs, my favourite character is Bundy. You’ll have to read the book to find out who this gorgeous creature is.
In Your Head has some deliciously spicy scenes. They’re intense but don’t overpower the story in any way. On the contrary, they highlight the irresistible attraction between both MCs, and I love that they don’t waste time giving in to it.
The book contains some heavier elements and triggers, such as:
• Grief
• Suicide
• Stalking
• Murder
Be sure to read the content warnings before starting this story.
In Your Head releases on February 5th, and I recommend adding this book to your TBR right now. Don’t miss out on this beautiful story.
The story is well-paced and engaging, written in a way that’s easy to follow, even if you’re not a native English speaker. Although you can predict the general direction the story is going, K. Hollow still managed to surprise me more than once. It’s truly amazing how she intertwined every piece of information and made it all fit together in the end.
About the MCs. Katherine is a therapist who used to work for the state but returns home to Greenwood after her father dies. She starts a new practice in the city while battling her own mental health issues. Zayn is an ex-Marine who grew up on the Pearson estate with his parents. After leaving the military, he returns to the house and becomes the groundskeeper of Pearson House. He’s always had a soft spot for Katherine and would do anything to keep her safe. Anything.
Although I love how K. Hollow portrayed both MCs, my favourite character is Bundy. You’ll have to read the book to find out who this gorgeous creature is.
In Your Head has some deliciously spicy scenes. They’re intense but don’t overpower the story in any way. On the contrary, they highlight the irresistible attraction between both MCs, and I love that they don’t waste time giving in to it.
The book contains some heavier elements and triggers, such as:
• Grief
• Suicide
• Stalking
• Murder
Be sure to read the content warnings before starting this story.
In Your Head releases on February 5th, and I recommend adding this book to your TBR right now. Don’t miss out on this beautiful story.
April 8, 2026
When I saw that this was a dark psychological thriller I was immediately sold and let me tell you she did not disappoint!
From the very start you just knew Zayn and Kat would have an intense connection. He was obsessed with her from the moment he laid eyes on her as a teenager and it never changed. I love how intense he was in everything he did, his obsession, his caring, his protectiveness and the way he claimed her! He was literally the whole package. Also he happens to stalker her, which let’s face it is a total green flag for any dark romance girl!
Kat lived her life isolating from others, loving to escape between the pages of a book even as a child. From what appears to be a strained relationship with her sister and father she has issues with anxiety, grief and trust. She is really just going through the motions of life, and this is only enhanced when she moves home after the death of her father. I love that she is such a relatable character in how she feels and shows, or doesn't show it.
When these two come together they are intense and just perfect together. Zayn just has a way of bringing Kat out of her shell and it's a beautiful thing to read her character go on that journey.
Of course being a dark thriller there is a lot of what the hell moments, plenty action and of course some delicious spicy scenes. Zayn is a man that knows what he is doing and allows Kat just to let go and do what she wants while feeling safe, yes in her stalkers arms. Their chemistry was undeniable and you were just wanting them to get their HEA the whole time.
The climax at the end was wow you really saw Kat turn into the person I think she really was meant to be, all the while having Zayn ground her! It had me on the edge and couldn't put the book down until I knew what happened.
From the very start you just knew Zayn and Kat would have an intense connection. He was obsessed with her from the moment he laid eyes on her as a teenager and it never changed. I love how intense he was in everything he did, his obsession, his caring, his protectiveness and the way he claimed her! He was literally the whole package. Also he happens to stalker her, which let’s face it is a total green flag for any dark romance girl!
Kat lived her life isolating from others, loving to escape between the pages of a book even as a child. From what appears to be a strained relationship with her sister and father she has issues with anxiety, grief and trust. She is really just going through the motions of life, and this is only enhanced when she moves home after the death of her father. I love that she is such a relatable character in how she feels and shows, or doesn't show it.
When these two come together they are intense and just perfect together. Zayn just has a way of bringing Kat out of her shell and it's a beautiful thing to read her character go on that journey.
Of course being a dark thriller there is a lot of what the hell moments, plenty action and of course some delicious spicy scenes. Zayn is a man that knows what he is doing and allows Kat just to let go and do what she wants while feeling safe, yes in her stalkers arms. Their chemistry was undeniable and you were just wanting them to get their HEA the whole time.
The climax at the end was wow you really saw Kat turn into the person I think she really was meant to be, all the while having Zayn ground her! It had me on the edge and couldn't put the book down until I knew what happened.
January 10, 2026
Dr Katherine Pearson has been through the wringer. She was working a dangerous case as a psychiatrist where a prisoner threatened his revenge on her one day. As if that isn't scary enough to always look over your shoulder, her dad passes away. Her dad was all she had left. Her mom passed in childbirth and she does have a sister, Rae, that she never sees. It's up to Katherine to head up to her dad's home where she spent her summers as a child.
What Katherine needed was this time away from her life. She sets up practice in town and she gets to start over. Until a man who looks familiar comes in as her patient. She immediately feels a connection which is a big no-no. She discovers its Zayn that used to live on the property with his family. He used a fake name to see her as her patient. That's not even the weirdest thing Zayn does.
From that point on she's fighting the palpable energy pull between them. He's the caretaker for her house. He had a much more complicated relationship with Katherine's father than anyone knew. His death had meaning and Katherine sets to find out what is being kept from her. She doesn't mean to uncover Zayn's dark secrets in the process. Katherine is quite dark herself. Will she accept his darkness or try to move on with life?
Good luck putting this book down! This is definitely a book you devour in one day. The ending will have you gasping and when truths are revealed about Rae, you may actually scream. Heart pounding suspense, wrapped with twisted and dark romance, sprinkled with obsession....that's how I would describe In Your Head.
What Katherine needed was this time away from her life. She sets up practice in town and she gets to start over. Until a man who looks familiar comes in as her patient. She immediately feels a connection which is a big no-no. She discovers its Zayn that used to live on the property with his family. He used a fake name to see her as her patient. That's not even the weirdest thing Zayn does.
From that point on she's fighting the palpable energy pull between them. He's the caretaker for her house. He had a much more complicated relationship with Katherine's father than anyone knew. His death had meaning and Katherine sets to find out what is being kept from her. She doesn't mean to uncover Zayn's dark secrets in the process. Katherine is quite dark herself. Will she accept his darkness or try to move on with life?
Good luck putting this book down! This is definitely a book you devour in one day. The ending will have you gasping and when truths are revealed about Rae, you may actually scream. Heart pounding suspense, wrapped with twisted and dark romance, sprinkled with obsession....that's how I would describe In Your Head.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I simply devoured every second of this book! Hollow’s command of prose, style, and story is superb and had me hooked from the moment I stepped into her world. Nothing feels overwritten, nothing feels out of place. This is what I yearn for in an indie debut!
I was swept away alongside Kat, moving from Seattle to lush, dreary, and eerie Greenwood, set deep in the Pacific Northwest where she reconnects with her obsessively protective stalker, Zayn. She’s a true black cat protagonist, and I loved how Hollow handled her trauma, healing, and her deep and dark connection with Zayn.
Zayn! ZAYN! Meet your new book boyfriend. I was obsessed with him by page 4. There were so many moments where I was questioning his sanity, my sanity, who was doing what to Kat, who he really is, his motives, on and on. He’s protective, obsessive, and more attuned to Kat’s needs and fears than she is herself. It’s almost like he knows her better than she knows herself - the perfect stalker.
The spice was generous and delicious AND plot-forward. Absolute perfection. The thriller beats were seamlessly woven into the story and I was questioning my own sanity, right along with Kat.
Kat and Zayn’s trauma, shared darkness, and deep twin-flame connection were gorgeous, romantic, and everything I want in a dark romance. The extra chapter, teasing the next book in her In Treatment series? Ughhh, I can’t wait! Thank you for trusting me with your ARC!
I was swept away alongside Kat, moving from Seattle to lush, dreary, and eerie Greenwood, set deep in the Pacific Northwest where she reconnects with her obsessively protective stalker, Zayn. She’s a true black cat protagonist, and I loved how Hollow handled her trauma, healing, and her deep and dark connection with Zayn.
Zayn! ZAYN! Meet your new book boyfriend. I was obsessed with him by page 4. There were so many moments where I was questioning his sanity, my sanity, who was doing what to Kat, who he really is, his motives, on and on. He’s protective, obsessive, and more attuned to Kat’s needs and fears than she is herself. It’s almost like he knows her better than she knows herself - the perfect stalker.
The spice was generous and delicious AND plot-forward. Absolute perfection. The thriller beats were seamlessly woven into the story and I was questioning my own sanity, right along with Kat.
Kat and Zayn’s trauma, shared darkness, and deep twin-flame connection were gorgeous, romantic, and everything I want in a dark romance. The extra chapter, teasing the next book in her In Treatment series? Ughhh, I can’t wait! Thank you for trusting me with your ARC!
February 13, 2026
Necessary Evil Never Looked So Good
OMG Besties… if you like your romance dark, obsessive, and crawling under your skin, 'In Your Head' by K. Hollow needs to be on your TBR immediately!
Kat is drowning in grief, trauma, and secrets, and the author makes you feel the darkness she swims in. It’s immersive without being overwhelming... like you’re right there in her spiraling head. And then enter Zayn… former Marine... Yes please!👀 The man does not call it stalking... ohhhh noooo... it’s a "necessary evil.” I giggled because sir… the compulsion? The obsession? The morally grey vibes? I’m locked in!
This is a slow burn, Besties… but when it ignites? It EXPLODES💥. The “touch her & di€” energy, the suspenseful plot twist (helloooo tension), and that spicy undercurrent was ohhhh soooo gooood!
Oh and Besties... that bonus chapter with Rae? OBSESSED. Book 2 needs to get here soon! This was such a strong trilogy opener... definitely add it to your list.😉
My Ratings: ⭐ 4.5/5 ▪︎ 🥵 3.5/5
🥀 For my rating scale breakdown, head over to my Goodreads &/or Amazon profile! 🖤
OMG Besties… if you like your romance dark, obsessive, and crawling under your skin, 'In Your Head' by K. Hollow needs to be on your TBR immediately!
Kat is drowning in grief, trauma, and secrets, and the author makes you feel the darkness she swims in. It’s immersive without being overwhelming... like you’re right there in her spiraling head. And then enter Zayn… former Marine... Yes please!👀 The man does not call it stalking... ohhhh noooo... it’s a "necessary evil.” I giggled because sir… the compulsion? The obsession? The morally grey vibes? I’m locked in!
This is a slow burn, Besties… but when it ignites? It EXPLODES💥. The “touch her & di€” energy, the suspenseful plot twist (helloooo tension), and that spicy undercurrent was ohhhh soooo gooood!
Oh and Besties... that bonus chapter with Rae? OBSESSED. Book 2 needs to get here soon! This was such a strong trilogy opener... definitely add it to your list.😉
My Ratings: ⭐ 4.5/5 ▪︎ 🥵 3.5/5
🥀 For my rating scale breakdown, head over to my Goodreads &/or Amazon profile! 🖤
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book had me forcing myself to stop reading just so I could go take a shower, and that is saying something for me, because the blend of spice and suspense is that intense. It delivers all the moody, rain-soaked, Pacific Northwest atmosphere that made Twilight so addictive, while introducing Katherine, a painfully relatable FMC I fell for almost instantly, and Zayn, who is the living, breathing definition of tall, dark, and handsome and yes, he absolutely cooks, both in the kitchen and in the bedroom. Dr. Katherine Pearson, a psychologist, returns to the PNW after her father’s death, only to cross paths with Zayn, the groundskeeper’s son on her father’s estate and, unbeknownst to her, her long-time watcher, not in a creepy way but in a I promised your father I’d protect you, I’ve always cared, I always show up when you need me kind of way. He seamlessly weaves himself into her life, appearing at exactly the right moment, every single time, and the tension only coils tighter from there. Huge thanks to K. Hollow for the ARC; this one left me breathless.
January 10, 2026
Having become a romance reader for only the past year or so (thanks to the encouragement of my best friend) I have started to discover my preferences in the genre. Whether there is too much or too little spice. The difference between the character development that allows me to feel connected to the characters and those in which I cannot find that bond. Sometimes a story is leaning too heavily on the smut and not enough on the characters. I want the story to be just as good as the spice. This being said, I have begun to find my niche. IN YOUR HEAD is my niche. This book has just the right amount of it all. Katherine Pearson has depth and is someone I want to know and care for. She feels like a friend and I am absolutely rooting for her and have come to love her. Zayn is hot as hell and the urgency in his care and obsession with Kat is palpable. Their story unfolds in beautifully written ups and downs. There is darkness and honesty and growth. I enjoyed every page and I CANNOT wait to read Rae’s story next. That teaser chapter has me at the edge of my seat!
February 3, 2026
Talk about dark romantic suspense! K. Hollow absolutely crushed it with her debut. Our FMC Dr. Katherine Pearson is dealing with her father’s death and moves back to her childhood home where he died. As a psychologist grieving while treating her own patients, she starts noticing things are off and feeling like she’s being watched. As someone who almost went into the psych field myself, the mental health representation and psychoanalysis in this book hit SO hard, it’s accurate and thoughtfully done, which made me love it even more.
Now let’s talk about Zayn, our MMC. He knew Katherine as a child and is obsessed with her then and now. He gives off total possessive stalker, touch-her-and-☠️ vibes but is a complete cinnamon roll for her. New book boyfriend alert! The suspense kept me hooked through every page, even that bonus chapter had me dying to know who was behind everything.
This is book 1 of a trilogy and I cannot wait for book 2! Thank you @authorkhollow for gifting me your ARC, I’ll definitely be applying for the next
Now let’s talk about Zayn, our MMC. He knew Katherine as a child and is obsessed with her then and now. He gives off total possessive stalker, touch-her-and-☠️ vibes but is a complete cinnamon roll for her. New book boyfriend alert! The suspense kept me hooked through every page, even that bonus chapter had me dying to know who was behind everything.
This is book 1 of a trilogy and I cannot wait for book 2! Thank you @authorkhollow for gifting me your ARC, I’ll definitely be applying for the next
February 7, 2026
In Your Head by K. Hollow is a wonderfully dark and moody romance. It is full of secrets, spice and danger.
The story follows Dr. Katherine Pearson as she deals with the grief of her fathers death and moves to the house he left her. Enters Zayn, a person from her past. The two form a bond, which turns into something more. But there is danger lurking in the background that could upend the fragile relationship they form.
Kat has her guard up and does not trust easily. You feel her grief and her pain. When she opens up to Zayn, you can't help but root for their relationship even though it is somewhat toxic.
Zayn is obsessed with Katherine. He toys with her mind. He is unhinged and will do anything to protect Kat. Some of his methods were unconventional, but you just have to remind yourself this is a dark romance.
These two have undeniable chemistry. The spice is hot and will have you fanning yourself.
This book is fast paced and full of twists that will have you at the edge of your seat.
*Please read trigger warnings. This book deals with heavy topics that readers could find upsetting.
Thank you to the author for an ARC of this title.
The story follows Dr. Katherine Pearson as she deals with the grief of her fathers death and moves to the house he left her. Enters Zayn, a person from her past. The two form a bond, which turns into something more. But there is danger lurking in the background that could upend the fragile relationship they form.
Kat has her guard up and does not trust easily. You feel her grief and her pain. When she opens up to Zayn, you can't help but root for their relationship even though it is somewhat toxic.
Zayn is obsessed with Katherine. He toys with her mind. He is unhinged and will do anything to protect Kat. Some of his methods were unconventional, but you just have to remind yourself this is a dark romance.
These two have undeniable chemistry. The spice is hot and will have you fanning yourself.
This book is fast paced and full of twists that will have you at the edge of your seat.
*Please read trigger warnings. This book deals with heavy topics that readers could find upsetting.
Thank you to the author for an ARC of this title.
December 10, 2025
Thank you to the author for providing me with a copy. The following review represents my honest opinion.
OH MY GOD I ate this up in one sitting. I was so hyped for this book that I couldn't resist starting it the same day it came into my inbox. And let me tell you that it somehow managed to outdo the already crazy hype I had for it! This is one of the best dark romances I've read and I'm not even joking in the slightest. The romance is perfect, the banter is delicious, and there were some certain scenes that I ate up 🤭. The writing is gorgeous and Hollow has such a command over her words. I could have honestly read 600 more pages of this book and still wanted more, that's how good it is.
You can count on me wanting to read EVERY release by K. Hollow and I will 100% be in her DMs (already am tbh) screaming about how amazing this book is.
OH MY GOD I ate this up in one sitting. I was so hyped for this book that I couldn't resist starting it the same day it came into my inbox. And let me tell you that it somehow managed to outdo the already crazy hype I had for it! This is one of the best dark romances I've read and I'm not even joking in the slightest. The romance is perfect, the banter is delicious, and there were some certain scenes that I ate up 🤭. The writing is gorgeous and Hollow has such a command over her words. I could have honestly read 600 more pages of this book and still wanted more, that's how good it is.
You can count on me wanting to read EVERY release by K. Hollow and I will 100% be in her DMs (already am tbh) screaming about how amazing this book is.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I don’t even know where to start with this book. Firstly it is my second ARC and I didn’t enjoy arc reading the first time so I was skeptical to apply for another ARC incase it happened again. IT DID NOT HAPPEN AGAIN. I couldn’t put this book down. Literally. I had to be up early to get ready today and I honestly said fuck sleep and stayed awake late to finish it. This book was hot 🔥🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ but not too much spice that it overrode the actual plot, which often tends to happen in spicy books. It was so beautifully written and honestly I’ve personally never read a book like it. I really really enjoyed it and I hope everyone else does too!! Thank you K for trusting me with your book 🥹🖤 it was perfection… YOU are perfection!
January 20, 2026
Rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Zayn is broody, stalkerish, protective, and very good with his hands. Loved his need to care for his girl. Dr. Kat is doing her best to survive the loss of her father, and even while dealing with her own grief, she continues showing up for her patients. She is determined to carry on throughout it all. As drama unfolds, it pushes both characters and drives their relationship forward in a way that has the feel
The character development and world-building were done really well. Watching both Zayn and Kat confront their flaws and grow into what they need for each other was great. Overall, this was a great story to sit back and enjoy.
Although this wasn't a story for me, I suggest you give it a try if you enjoy suspenseful and stalker vibes with a side of romance.
Zayn is broody, stalkerish, protective, and very good with his hands. Loved his need to care for his girl. Dr. Kat is doing her best to survive the loss of her father, and even while dealing with her own grief, she continues showing up for her patients. She is determined to carry on throughout it all. As drama unfolds, it pushes both characters and drives their relationship forward in a way that has the feel
The character development and world-building were done really well. Watching both Zayn and Kat confront their flaws and grow into what they need for each other was great. Overall, this was a great story to sit back and enjoy.
Although this wasn't a story for me, I suggest you give it a try if you enjoy suspenseful and stalker vibes with a side of romance.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews