What do you think?
Rate this book
Nyctophilia
Nyctophilia
A Devotion & Vice Novel
Nyctophilia is a dark romance set in the Pacific Northwest, where the forests are dense, the air is heavy, and people disappear without much question.
Olive Sava keeps her life small on purpose. She works in a quiet flower shop, works with funeral arrangements, and stays far away from the violence she was born into.
She doesn’t draw attention on purpose. She definitely doesn’t expect to have a stalker.
Bash Zane was sent to find her. That was it. just a simple job.
At first, it’s just part of the job. He starts showing up without being seen. Staying longer than he should. Watching her like she already belongs to him.
Olive feels it before she understands it—that constant, crawling sense that she’s not alone.
Bash tells himself he’s in control. But he’s already crossed the line. He doesn’t want to follow the jobs rules. He wants to keep her.
And once he decides that—there’s no one left to stop him.
Nyctophilia can be read as a stand-alone in the Devotion & Vice series.
A Devotion & Vice Novel
Nyctophilia is a dark romance set in the Pacific Northwest, where the forests are dense, the air is heavy, and people disappear without much question.
Olive Sava keeps her life small on purpose. She works in a quiet flower shop, works with funeral arrangements, and stays far away from the violence she was born into.
She doesn’t draw attention on purpose. She definitely doesn’t expect to have a stalker.
Bash Zane was sent to find her. That was it. just a simple job.
At first, it’s just part of the job. He starts showing up without being seen. Staying longer than he should. Watching her like she already belongs to him.
Olive feels it before she understands it—that constant, crawling sense that she’s not alone.
Bash tells himself he’s in control. But he’s already crossed the line. He doesn’t want to follow the jobs rules. He wants to keep her.
And once he decides that—there’s no one left to stop him.
Nyctophilia can be read as a stand-alone in the Devotion & Vice series.
329 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 9, 2026
About the author
Athena E.S.
4 books25 followersAthena E.S. is a dark romance author writing stories where obsession is currency and devotion is dangerous. Her work centers on morally gray men, feral women, and love that destroys before it saves.
Inspired by shadowed power dynamics, folklore, and violence threaded with intimacy, her stories live where desire and control blur.
Lethal is her debut novel. Book two is currently in progress.
Inspired by shadowed power dynamics, folklore, and violence threaded with intimacy, her stories live where desire and control blur.
Lethal is her debut novel. Book two is currently in progress.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
August 3, 2026
Nyctophilia by Athena ES
Make sure you check your trigger warning and content warnings before diving into this one
The way this book had me hooked from the moment I started it! I couldn't put it down.
Bash is sent to the PWN and he has a mission that he needs to finish. The moment he sets his eyes on Olive there is something about her that he is immediately drawn too. He doesn't understand what it is about her but he is OBSESSED and he knows nothing about her. He makes it his mission to find out everything about her and what she is running from and why. The way he follows her routine from ending up at the same coffee shop to watching her in her house.
Bash is unhinged, obsessive, possessive, and I loved everything about him! The way he would burn the world down for Olive just had me griping the edge of my seat.
The push and pull between Olive and Bash was just everything. Olive doesn't want to feel something about him stalking her and making her feel the way that he does. She feels that it's wrong, he shouldn't be making her feel all of these dark thoughts but they won't go away. All Olive wants to do is be alone in her cottage and tend to her garden and her herbs. She doesn't expect to find herself having someone watching her and getting under her skin.
From the moment I started this book I couldn't put it down! I loved everything from the characters to the story to the spice. I loved the way that they were getting under each other's skin but then didn't know what to do when they were away from each other. My heart was melting from the way Olive was making Bash feel. He didn't understand all of the things he was feeling but he was. Bash is definitely on the ladder of MMCs that I love!
Make sure you check your trigger warning and content warnings before diving into this one
The way this book had me hooked from the moment I started it! I couldn't put it down.
Bash is sent to the PWN and he has a mission that he needs to finish. The moment he sets his eyes on Olive there is something about her that he is immediately drawn too. He doesn't understand what it is about her but he is OBSESSED and he knows nothing about her. He makes it his mission to find out everything about her and what she is running from and why. The way he follows her routine from ending up at the same coffee shop to watching her in her house.
Bash is unhinged, obsessive, possessive, and I loved everything about him! The way he would burn the world down for Olive just had me griping the edge of my seat.
The push and pull between Olive and Bash was just everything. Olive doesn't want to feel something about him stalking her and making her feel the way that he does. She feels that it's wrong, he shouldn't be making her feel all of these dark thoughts but they won't go away. All Olive wants to do is be alone in her cottage and tend to her garden and her herbs. She doesn't expect to find herself having someone watching her and getting under her skin.
From the moment I started this book I couldn't put it down! I loved everything from the characters to the story to the spice. I loved the way that they were getting under each other's skin but then didn't know what to do when they were away from each other. My heart was melting from the way Olive was making Bash feel. He didn't understand all of the things he was feeling but he was. Bash is definitely on the ladder of MMCs that I love!
June 25, 2026
Bash is the morally black stalker you have been searching for. Obsessed down to his core and spirit. Whether she’s at the gym, her cabin in the dense murky forest, or her quiet flower shop. he’s there always watching. The shadow that never goes away. Our witchy FMC Olive can’t figure out what to do with Bash. It makes her question herself but she doesn’t seem to mind as much as she says she does. Did you ever think you would see a scene with a fish hook and get turned on? me either. If your wanting another morally black stalker to add to your list of favorites don’t forget about Bash, because he would never forget about you. 🖤🔪
June 15, 2026
I received this as an ARC
4⭐️
1.5🌶
I enjoyed the story and felt that it progressed easily and at no point was I struggling to continue reading. I enjoyed both the main characters. Bash is your stereotypical psychopath, lacks guilt and remorse over those he's killed, however feels a need for Olive and has a clear attachment to his sister. Olive on the other hand feels her emotions, but buries the ones that scare her. She is in Oregon running from her past while still remembering and still experiencing the emotional reasons that she ran.
What fell short for me is that while I enjoyed both characters, I feel that they could have been developed more deeply. I would love to know the whole backstory of why Olive ran, and maybe why her father allowed her to be gone for so long before sending someone after her. As for Bash, I want to know what happened with Karla, I feel like that led so significantly to his feelings towards his parents that I want to know the background.
4⭐️
1.5🌶
I enjoyed the story and felt that it progressed easily and at no point was I struggling to continue reading. I enjoyed both the main characters. Bash is your stereotypical psychopath, lacks guilt and remorse over those he's killed, however feels a need for Olive and has a clear attachment to his sister. Olive on the other hand feels her emotions, but buries the ones that scare her. She is in Oregon running from her past while still remembering and still experiencing the emotional reasons that she ran.
What fell short for me is that while I enjoyed both characters, I feel that they could have been developed more deeply. I would love to know the whole backstory of why Olive ran, and maybe why her father allowed her to be gone for so long before sending someone after her. As for Bash, I want to know what happened with Karla, I feel like that led so significantly to his feelings towards his parents that I want to know the background.
Review of advance copy received from Author
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
Thank you to Athena E.S. for the ARC of Nyctophilia, I am honored and grateful for the opportunity to read this book early!
I devoured this book! I love a genuinely dark stalker romance that has genuine slow burn and doesn’t hold back!
Bash is different, always has been and the people in his life have always treated him as such. No one understands him and a lot of people are scared of him. Olive is trying to live a quiet life away from the chaos of her old life and family, Bash is about to disrupt that quiet in the best way possible!
What starts out as a simple job soon turns into an infatuation and dark obsession.
I truly enjoyed how fast paced and detailed this book was! It was different from a lot of other dark stalker/dark mafia romances that I’ve read! I love when authors aren’t afraid to make morally black MMCs almost sociopathic making their obsession with the FMC that much more intense. Athena did such a good job of this!
Bash is so morally black and I got the sense that he has sociopathic tendencies and that made his infatuation with her that much more interesting!
I do wish the spice was a little more intense to match the plot and the characters themselves but other than that I am so happy I was able to read this early!
I will definitely be checking out Athena’s other books because of this!🖤🔥
🌶️🌶️
Thank you to Athena E.S. for the ARC of Nyctophilia, I am honored and grateful for the opportunity to read this book early!
I devoured this book! I love a genuinely dark stalker romance that has genuine slow burn and doesn’t hold back!
Bash is different, always has been and the people in his life have always treated him as such. No one understands him and a lot of people are scared of him. Olive is trying to live a quiet life away from the chaos of her old life and family, Bash is about to disrupt that quiet in the best way possible!
What starts out as a simple job soon turns into an infatuation and dark obsession.
I truly enjoyed how fast paced and detailed this book was! It was different from a lot of other dark stalker/dark mafia romances that I’ve read! I love when authors aren’t afraid to make morally black MMCs almost sociopathic making their obsession with the FMC that much more intense. Athena did such a good job of this!
Bash is so morally black and I got the sense that he has sociopathic tendencies and that made his infatuation with her that much more interesting!
I do wish the spice was a little more intense to match the plot and the characters themselves but other than that I am so happy I was able to read this early!
I will definitely be checking out Athena’s other books because of this!🖤🔥
June 10, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Bash. 😍
That’s the review....Fine, I’ll elaborate.
This book grabbed me by the throat and repeatedly asked if I was okay. I was not. Every chapter made me more feral than the last. Bash is the kind of fictional man that makes you stare out a window dramatically while questioning your entire existence.
Every time that man showed up on the page I forgot how to read. Red flag? Sure. Problematic? Maybe. Am I listening? Absolutely not.
The plot? Amazing. The tension? Illegal. My mental stability? Gone. This book had me giggling, stressed, blushing, and staring at my ceiling at 2 a.m. wondering what exactly Athena E.S. put in these pages. The tension was insane. The chemistry was ridiculous. My standards are now unrealistic and frankly that’s between me and God.
Anyway, Athena owes me compensation for emotional damages. 🤣
5 stars. Bash ruined my life and I’d let him do it again.
Bash, if you’re reading this, I forgive you for everything.
Bash. 😍
That’s the review....Fine, I’ll elaborate.
This book grabbed me by the throat and repeatedly asked if I was okay. I was not. Every chapter made me more feral than the last. Bash is the kind of fictional man that makes you stare out a window dramatically while questioning your entire existence.
Every time that man showed up on the page I forgot how to read. Red flag? Sure. Problematic? Maybe. Am I listening? Absolutely not.
The plot? Amazing. The tension? Illegal. My mental stability? Gone. This book had me giggling, stressed, blushing, and staring at my ceiling at 2 a.m. wondering what exactly Athena E.S. put in these pages. The tension was insane. The chemistry was ridiculous. My standards are now unrealistic and frankly that’s between me and God.
Anyway, Athena owes me compensation for emotional damages. 🤣
5 stars. Bash ruined my life and I’d let him do it again.
Bash, if you’re reading this, I forgive you for everything.
June 1, 2026
I received an ARC for this in exchange for an honest review.
As grateful as I am to have had the opportunity to read this, there are quite a few reasons it just completely missed the mark for me. Most of these revolve around the writing style which I am aware may not be a big deal for other readers.
For the first half of the book I got really frustrated with the constant short sentences. It was reading like a poetry format and this reading style changes the tone of the story for me immensely. In this case, I felt the scenes were rushed, the emotions felt as though something intense was going to happen but it left me completely underwhelmed. Another issue with the writing was the constant ‘…’ before most dialogue. This did improve after the first 50% but was just an annoying feature. I also found the author would use the same adjectives or phrases again and again, with an example being ‘predatory’ used to describe our MMC and his smile constantly. It gives very amateur writing and heavily influenced my overall rating and experience.
In terms of story, there was no substance or work up to anything. Everything was given immediately and never packed a punch. The entire thing just fell flat. I had no connection to either of our main characters and I feel like much of the ‘plot’ was glossed over.
As grateful as I am to have had the opportunity to read this, there are quite a few reasons it just completely missed the mark for me. Most of these revolve around the writing style which I am aware may not be a big deal for other readers.
For the first half of the book I got really frustrated with the constant short sentences. It was reading like a poetry format and this reading style changes the tone of the story for me immensely. In this case, I felt the scenes were rushed, the emotions felt as though something intense was going to happen but it left me completely underwhelmed. Another issue with the writing was the constant ‘…’ before most dialogue. This did improve after the first 50% but was just an annoying feature. I also found the author would use the same adjectives or phrases again and again, with an example being ‘predatory’ used to describe our MMC and his smile constantly. It gives very amateur writing and heavily influenced my overall rating and experience.
In terms of story, there was no substance or work up to anything. Everything was given immediately and never packed a punch. The entire thing just fell flat. I had no connection to either of our main characters and I feel like much of the ‘plot’ was glossed over.
June 9, 2026
I received an advance review copy for free provided by the author and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Thank you Athena ES!
I loved this book! The way Athena writes hits you right in the heart. The story between Olive and Bash is breathtaking.
I don’t have any words for it 🙈
If you like
👉 dark romance
👉 unhinged man
👉 touch her and die energy
👉 emotional warfare
Then you should definitely read this book!
I loved this book! The way Athena writes hits you right in the heart. The story between Olive and Bash is breathtaking.
I don’t have any words for it 🙈
If you like
👉 dark romance
👉 unhinged man
👉 touch her and die energy
👉 emotional warfare
Then you should definitely read this book!
June 9, 2026
3.5⭐️ 2🌶️
“He’s terrifying, yes. He’s unhinged, absolutely. But he’s also the only thing that’s ever kept me safe. He’s the only thing that’s ever made me feel seen.”
Surprise Bash is now your personal stalker and boyfriend. Don’t worry you’ll learn to love it. Childhood trauma ✔️✔️. An unhinged psychopath who is only soft for his girl ✔️. A woman who wants to hide in her witchy cottage and garden✔️. Two people who want to be loved for their monsters and all✔️✔️.
“He’s terrifying, yes. He’s unhinged, absolutely. But he’s also the only thing that’s ever kept me safe. He’s the only thing that’s ever made me feel seen.”
Surprise Bash is now your personal stalker and boyfriend. Don’t worry you’ll learn to love it. Childhood trauma ✔️✔️. An unhinged psychopath who is only soft for his girl ✔️. A woman who wants to hide in her witchy cottage and garden✔️. Two people who want to be loved for their monsters and all✔️✔️.
June 27, 2026
what a goood dark time !!!!
Yeah whatever you put in that, I’d like for you to do that again 😊
I read this is a day and I have no complaints about it ! It was captivating, fun great pace and just all around a good time if you like a little touch her and die, stalking, banter oh the banter !
I love when you get the perfect amount of inner thoughts and actually conversation between characters !!!!
Yeah whatever you put in that, I’d like for you to do that again 😊
I read this is a day and I have no complaints about it ! It was captivating, fun great pace and just all around a good time if you like a little touch her and die, stalking, banter oh the banter !
I love when you get the perfect amount of inner thoughts and actually conversation between characters !!!!
June 3, 2026
Received this as an ARC :)
This was beautifully written, Athena writes so different than I am used too but she made you feel Bash and Olive and how they are/what they’re thinking; it felt so real and raw 🥹
Loved this book so much!
This was beautifully written, Athena writes so different than I am used too but she made you feel Bash and Olive and how they are/what they’re thinking; it felt so real and raw 🥹
Loved this book so much!
May 31, 2026
He's dark and twisty and I'm immediately obcessed. I don't care what he wants to do to I'm downnnnn
Nyctophilia is from Athena ES Devotion & Vice series and I wasn't disappointed.
I devoured this and I need more.
The back and forth slow burn between Olive and Bash is chefs kiss. He can't get enough of her as he stalks her at work, at the gym and while she sleeps.
Bash has been sent on a mission which he can't finish because he falls...hard!!
I'm saying no more get it on your good reads TBR and get it on your hands. Bash is waiting for you too
Nyctophilia is from Athena ES Devotion & Vice series and I wasn't disappointed.
I devoured this and I need more.
The back and forth slow burn between Olive and Bash is chefs kiss. He can't get enough of her as he stalks her at work, at the gym and while she sleeps.
Bash has been sent on a mission which he can't finish because he falls...hard!!
I'm saying no more get it on your good reads TBR and get it on your hands. Bash is waiting for you too
August 11, 2026
I dont think I have ever read a book that has made me this absolutely fucking feral in a while. I've been let out of my enclosure and I cannot go back. Sorry to my neighbours for the howling and hollering but not really. This book required a very long look in the mirror in the best way. Between the tension and the absolute pure yearning, safe to say I have been hooked in (iykyk). I think Bash’s gift giving skills are truly unmatched. Olive is truly stronger than me, because from the whipped cream scene, I would have blushingly said ‘cheque please’ immediately but I think that speaks more about me and morals. Can we also have a moment for the fact that Bash will always stand on business 🤭🤭
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 11, 2026
First of all, thank you for the ARC in exchange of an honest review from me. I was so excited with the tropes when I read what they gave me upon what to expect inside the story & the mmc, as those are right in my alley of all fav things to read.
Upon reading, it bummed me out by the writing style for the first half of the book. I usually don’t really mind writing style, even the ones I’m not really into, as long as it can still gives me the emotion and anything that the story wants to give, but this time, the writing style absolutely mess with the deliverance of the whole story for me. I’ve tried really hard to get those first half through, hence you can see the unusual stretch in my reading timeline. It’s written in poem format yet felt flat and disconnected. I love to read poem, but this is not it for me..
Then after a while into the story, I’m happy to see that the writing style had changed, so there’s hope. I managed to grasp some feelings & insight that the story’s trying to push, yet decent ones. For me, it could’ve been better..it felt rushed, mostly flat, and felt like the chemistry there been chopped off whenever it’s only start forming, at some part. It does have potential indeed. Overall, for the characters & plot, I think their baseline are already good, but I only get the gist of it, not the full package, in this whole story..
Anyway, this is the first book that I read from this author, if this might be the author’s signature way, then it’s okay, as I’ve seen some did enjoyed this book thoroughly, good to see that. I’m not trying to have anything against the author, yet this is just my honest review from reading this book. You might enjoy reading this book, since we all get different perspectives & preferences indeed. All the best to the author & thank you again for the ARC 🖤
Upon reading, it bummed me out by the writing style for the first half of the book. I usually don’t really mind writing style, even the ones I’m not really into, as long as it can still gives me the emotion and anything that the story wants to give, but this time, the writing style absolutely mess with the deliverance of the whole story for me. I’ve tried really hard to get those first half through, hence you can see the unusual stretch in my reading timeline. It’s written in poem format yet felt flat and disconnected. I love to read poem, but this is not it for me..
Then after a while into the story, I’m happy to see that the writing style had changed, so there’s hope. I managed to grasp some feelings & insight that the story’s trying to push, yet decent ones. For me, it could’ve been better..it felt rushed, mostly flat, and felt like the chemistry there been chopped off whenever it’s only start forming, at some part. It does have potential indeed. Overall, for the characters & plot, I think their baseline are already good, but I only get the gist of it, not the full package, in this whole story..
Anyway, this is the first book that I read from this author, if this might be the author’s signature way, then it’s okay, as I’ve seen some did enjoyed this book thoroughly, good to see that. I’m not trying to have anything against the author, yet this is just my honest review from reading this book. You might enjoy reading this book, since we all get different perspectives & preferences indeed. All the best to the author & thank you again for the ARC 🖤
Review of advance copy received from Author
What can I say? Apparently I have a weakness for men who should probably be in prison.
Bash was absolutely unhinged and somehow Athena managed to make me love him anyway.
What stood out to me most was that he never pretended to be something he wasn’t. There was no apology, no grand speech explaining why he did what he did. He wanted Olive, and every decision he made stemmed from that obsession. As a dark romance reader, that’s the kind of MMC that keeps me turning pages.
And Olive? I loved her way more than I expected to. Her connection to nature, spirituality, and the quiet life she built for herself made her feel real. She wasn’t one of those FMCs who constantly made me want to pull my hair out. Instead, I found myself understanding why she was drawn to Bash despite every reason she shouldn’t have been.
The slow burn in this book was torture in the best possible way. The tension, the watching, the obsession, the feeling that something was always lurking just beneath the surface. By the time things finally happened, I was more invested in the chemistry than the spice itself.
Also, can we talk about the freckles? Because a man counting freckles on a woman he is obsessed with? Yeah. That got me.
This had all my favorite things, possessive MMC, touch her and die energy, obsession, slow burn, and enough darkness to keep me hooked without crossing into pitch-black territory.
Would I recommend Bash in real life?
Absolutely not.
Did I love reading about him?
Absolutely yes.
Bash was absolutely unhinged and somehow Athena managed to make me love him anyway.
What stood out to me most was that he never pretended to be something he wasn’t. There was no apology, no grand speech explaining why he did what he did. He wanted Olive, and every decision he made stemmed from that obsession. As a dark romance reader, that’s the kind of MMC that keeps me turning pages.
And Olive? I loved her way more than I expected to. Her connection to nature, spirituality, and the quiet life she built for herself made her feel real. She wasn’t one of those FMCs who constantly made me want to pull my hair out. Instead, I found myself understanding why she was drawn to Bash despite every reason she shouldn’t have been.
The slow burn in this book was torture in the best possible way. The tension, the watching, the obsession, the feeling that something was always lurking just beneath the surface. By the time things finally happened, I was more invested in the chemistry than the spice itself.
Also, can we talk about the freckles? Because a man counting freckles on a woman he is obsessed with? Yeah. That got me.
This had all my favorite things, possessive MMC, touch her and die energy, obsession, slow burn, and enough darkness to keep me hooked without crossing into pitch-black territory.
Would I recommend Bash in real life?
Absolutely not.
Did I love reading about him?
Absolutely yes.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book was SO good! 😍
"I wonder what she's doing today. Is she sleeping in? Is she puttering around her little cottage, touching her plants?"
I absolutely adored the author’s writing style. The shorter sentences really emphasised Bash’s turbulent thoughts and how rapidly his mind works.
Bash, our MC, is a psychopathic stalker sent to hunt down and return Olive, our FMC to her home town.
Of course, Bash unapologetically decides to play with his prey first… but Olive is feisty and harbouring secrets of her own.
The quiet, drizzly setting really emphasised the cosy life Olive has built for herself, and I felt completely engrossed in her surroundings. It made it even more exciting when Bash struts into her life with some serious eye contact and her favourite coffee.
The slow burn was done SO well. We don’t get the full explosion until around 70% into the book and I. AM. HERE. FOR. IT. 🥵🥵
The book was on the shorter side, but I honestly would have lapped up a few extra chapters. I wanted to learn more about their families and get a little more background that would’ve made me care even more about the characters.
Also… Olive desperately needs new colleagues because why are they encouraging her to get with her stalker?! 😂 The alarm bells are ringing for everyone except the characters in this book apparently.
I’ll definitely be reading more from this author because her writing is beautiful 😍
"I wonder what she's doing today. Is she sleeping in? Is she puttering around her little cottage, touching her plants?"
I absolutely adored the author’s writing style. The shorter sentences really emphasised Bash’s turbulent thoughts and how rapidly his mind works.
Bash, our MC, is a psychopathic stalker sent to hunt down and return Olive, our FMC to her home town.
Of course, Bash unapologetically decides to play with his prey first… but Olive is feisty and harbouring secrets of her own.
The quiet, drizzly setting really emphasised the cosy life Olive has built for herself, and I felt completely engrossed in her surroundings. It made it even more exciting when Bash struts into her life with some serious eye contact and her favourite coffee.
The slow burn was done SO well. We don’t get the full explosion until around 70% into the book and I. AM. HERE. FOR. IT. 🥵🥵
The book was on the shorter side, but I honestly would have lapped up a few extra chapters. I wanted to learn more about their families and get a little more background that would’ve made me care even more about the characters.
Also… Olive desperately needs new colleagues because why are they encouraging her to get with her stalker?! 😂 The alarm bells are ringing for everyone except the characters in this book apparently.
I’ll definitely be reading more from this author because her writing is beautiful 😍
Review of advance copy received from Author
"But I won't. Because breaking you would be a waste. I'd much rather read you. Page by fucking page."
“You have no idea… How much I want to fuck this up. To take these perfect little flowers and just… shred them. To see what you’d look like surrounded by the wreckage.”
There was a dark aesthetic to this book that just felt delicious to absorb while reading. It’s based in the PNW which is home for me and this gave those eerie vibes that make you wanna crawl under a cozy blanket and listen to the rain all day.
Bash is not your average stalker. He observes. He calculates you and your next moves before even you know. And he’s everywhere. Always watching. Always waiting. Not to mention he is a touch her and 💀 kind of MMC. Honestly if someone breathes or just exists near her it’s not gonna be a good day.
Olive is a fun character. She just wants to escape and vibe with her garden and flowers. She wants a normal life and while Bash exists in her old life…she can’t resist welcoming him into her new.
I want more of the background of the families. I also want more of this world in general. The author has a way with words and can suck you in from page 1 and keep you interested. Like the way she writes…I could read a how to clean a dishwasher manual if she wrote it and be entertained. Do with that what you will.
5 STARS! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
“You have no idea… How much I want to fuck this up. To take these perfect little flowers and just… shred them. To see what you’d look like surrounded by the wreckage.”
There was a dark aesthetic to this book that just felt delicious to absorb while reading. It’s based in the PNW which is home for me and this gave those eerie vibes that make you wanna crawl under a cozy blanket and listen to the rain all day.
Bash is not your average stalker. He observes. He calculates you and your next moves before even you know. And he’s everywhere. Always watching. Always waiting. Not to mention he is a touch her and 💀 kind of MMC. Honestly if someone breathes or just exists near her it’s not gonna be a good day.
Olive is a fun character. She just wants to escape and vibe with her garden and flowers. She wants a normal life and while Bash exists in her old life…she can’t resist welcoming him into her new.
I want more of the background of the families. I also want more of this world in general. The author has a way with words and can suck you in from page 1 and keep you interested. Like the way she writes…I could read a how to clean a dishwasher manual if she wrote it and be entertained. Do with that what you will.
5 STARS! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Review of advance copy received from Author
Honest review in exchange for ARC 🖤
I really liked the MMC - Sebastian (Bash), I love how he doesn’t apologize for his actions, he feels completely justified in them. The “touch her and ☠️” trope is one of my favs, so to see that showed with the CREEP doctor was romantic. Him counting her freckles actually killed me, so fucking cute.
I enjoyed Olive way more than I initially thought I would! I guess I didn’t know what “witchy FMC” was when I was reading about this book. But to see she just kinda is all about earth in a spiritual way is really interesting to read about and I like it. I also find her reactions very realistic, she finds Bash very attractive which is why she isn’t pulling away but instead just frozen by his actions, then pulled into them.
This book this more on the slow burn side. The more spicy and steamy sciences I would say are in the last third of the book, but the pace was great! I was really impressed by this read from Athena and I will definitely be reading more of her work!
I really liked the MMC - Sebastian (Bash), I love how he doesn’t apologize for his actions, he feels completely justified in them. The “touch her and ☠️” trope is one of my favs, so to see that showed with the CREEP doctor was romantic. Him counting her freckles actually killed me, so fucking cute.
I enjoyed Olive way more than I initially thought I would! I guess I didn’t know what “witchy FMC” was when I was reading about this book. But to see she just kinda is all about earth in a spiritual way is really interesting to read about and I like it. I also find her reactions very realistic, she finds Bash very attractive which is why she isn’t pulling away but instead just frozen by his actions, then pulled into them.
This book this more on the slow burn side. The more spicy and steamy sciences I would say are in the last third of the book, but the pace was great! I was really impressed by this read from Athena and I will definitely be reading more of her work!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I'm not really sure how to describe this story. Obsession, stalking, some redemption...Bash definitely grew on me in his sociopathic way haha. But Olive is such a strong, resilient FMC and I love how she doesn't fall at first sight, she recognizes all the red flags and calls herself out on her attraction. She makes him *work* for it and I loved seeing it play out!
What kept this from being a 5 star read for me: I wanted more details on their backgrounds and outside conflict. I feel like the entire story is centered on his stalking and wearing her down, but there's a whole conflict with her father that I wanted to see a little more fleshed out. And the beginning is written almost exclusively in a disjointed, stream of consciousness style that was a little more difficult for me, personally, to get into. The second half is much more my style and I thoroughly enjoyed it!
I read this as an ARC and I truly appreciate the opportunity!!
What kept this from being a 5 star read for me: I wanted more details on their backgrounds and outside conflict. I feel like the entire story is centered on his stalking and wearing her down, but there's a whole conflict with her father that I wanted to see a little more fleshed out. And the beginning is written almost exclusively in a disjointed, stream of consciousness style that was a little more difficult for me, personally, to get into. The second half is much more my style and I thoroughly enjoyed it!
I read this as an ARC and I truly appreciate the opportunity!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was an ARC
The writing layout is new to me so its not my favourite thing in the world but the story decent.
We get introduced to Bash and find out exactly what he's like which leaves a sólida impression.
We are then introduced to Olive and she's very traumatised. Has to be perfect even if no one is watching... or in this case until finally watches her even when she's alone.
Their relationship from her perspective is very slow burn while for him its almost like he just found a shiny new toy to fixate upon
Both of them compliment each other perfectly. He's the dark, murderous stalker while she's the perfect, quiet, almost wallflower type.
It was a good ride, I just wish it hadnt felt... so rushed/flat at the end? It was a nice moment between the two of them but it just fell flat for me
There was obsession, stalking and some redemption. The spicy was I'll say a 3.5 out 5
The writing layout is new to me so its not my favourite thing in the world but the story decent.
We get introduced to Bash and find out exactly what he's like which leaves a sólida impression.
We are then introduced to Olive and she's very traumatised. Has to be perfect even if no one is watching... or in this case until finally watches her even when she's alone.
Their relationship from her perspective is very slow burn while for him its almost like he just found a shiny new toy to fixate upon
Both of them compliment each other perfectly. He's the dark, murderous stalker while she's the perfect, quiet, almost wallflower type.
It was a good ride, I just wish it hadnt felt... so rushed/flat at the end? It was a nice moment between the two of them but it just fell flat for me
There was obsession, stalking and some redemption. The spicy was I'll say a 3.5 out 5
June 19, 2026
Athena freaking killed it...AGAIN. Nyctophilia completely consumed me in the best way, she writes some of my favorite characters. Bash was the perfect amount of unhinged, possessive, and obsessive. Paired with Olive who was strong and resilient. They complimented each other so well. The chemistry between them was super intense. I absolutely ate it up. Also, Bash's "gift" to Olive had me giggling, kicking my feet, and questioning my standards all at the same time. And the spice?!? 10/10 sooo freaking good!! Anywayssss...if you love a book that will make you question your life decisions at 2am (and by question I mean asking yourself where you can find a bash for yourself) Then you should absolutely go grab a vanilla honey latte, your copy of Nyctophilia and a comfy blanket. Don't worry Bash will stalk, I mean take care of you 😏
Review of advance copy received from Author
OMG!!!!! What a read. I got this as an ARC read. All I can say is MORE MORE PLEASE!!!
This book was amazingly written. The story was unhinged and everything you want to read. 😘
Bash is the kind of man your parents warned you to stay as far away from as possible. Yet he was so captivating he kept drawing you back into him. Unhinged, stalker, obsessed with Olive. Need I say more.
Olive is a cute FMC. Like an obedient child at first. But I am glad that she did not "fall" right away for Bash. Able to see the red flags in him and make him burn hotter. But once the two of them get their hands on each other. Let the fun begin.
Anthea has really outdone herself with this book. I cannot wait to read more from her.
This book was amazingly written. The story was unhinged and everything you want to read. 😘
Bash is the kind of man your parents warned you to stay as far away from as possible. Yet he was so captivating he kept drawing you back into him. Unhinged, stalker, obsessed with Olive. Need I say more.
Olive is a cute FMC. Like an obedient child at first. But I am glad that she did not "fall" right away for Bash. Able to see the red flags in him and make him burn hotter. But once the two of them get their hands on each other. Let the fun begin.
Anthea has really outdone herself with this book. I cannot wait to read more from her.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Omggg I absolutely adore Bash!!! The way he stalks Olive, the little gifts,... she basically tells him to stay away to which he replies LOL. Like who does that!? And Olive is such a strong FMC that it takes his delicious form of seduction to break down her defenses.
Such devotion you'll find in this unhinged tale with a very morally gray (or is he morally black) MMC.
There may not be a detailed background for the FMC but really, the point is in the here and now. I truly enjoyed this story and feel honored to have read the story as it played out.
Sooo much love for the whole Devotion and Vice series!!
Such devotion you'll find in this unhinged tale with a very morally gray (or is he morally black) MMC.
There may not be a detailed background for the FMC but really, the point is in the here and now. I truly enjoyed this story and feel honored to have read the story as it played out.
Sooo much love for the whole Devotion and Vice series!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I want a bloody-after fairytale too!!! This book was so good I loved every unhinged moment of it. Bash and Olive are just too cute together and their chemistry was fire and so electric. The book had me giggling like a school girl so many times and then swooning over things Bash either said or did. I do hope there’s another book in this series as I wanna know what happens between the two of them. A great read I loved it so much and would recommend anyone who loves a dark, unhinged MMC who would kill for you to read this!!! A short read would have had it read in a day or two if I didn’t have to deal with adulting lol
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.5⭐️
This dark stalker romance is the third installment in the “Devotion & Vice” series, but can be read as a stand alone! I ripped through this one and read most of it in a day. It’s deliciously unhinged. Sweet, witchy Olive and unapologetic, psychopathic Bash offer unique, contrasting personalities making for an exhilarating read. Athena E.S. is a master of dark romance and I cannot wait to see what she concocts next!
If the following appeal to you, you have to read this book.
🖤Morally black MMC
💀Touch her and die
❤️🔥possession and obsession
🔪knife play
🌶️Sinful spice
Thank you to Athena E.S. for an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review!
This dark stalker romance is the third installment in the “Devotion & Vice” series, but can be read as a stand alone! I ripped through this one and read most of it in a day. It’s deliciously unhinged. Sweet, witchy Olive and unapologetic, psychopathic Bash offer unique, contrasting personalities making for an exhilarating read. Athena E.S. is a master of dark romance and I cannot wait to see what she concocts next!
If the following appeal to you, you have to read this book.
🖤Morally black MMC
💀Touch her and die
❤️🔥possession and obsession
🔪knife play
🌶️Sinful spice
Thank you to Athena E.S. for an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Wow, wow, wow!! What a ride!! Bash is….drool worthy in the most unhinged way!!! Olive is soft but strong and challenges every move Bash makes. Two people who would not be a thing are forced into close proximity and it just explodes from there! Every scene develops the story in a way that keeps you guessing and drops your jaw at the same time. Well written in a way that pulls you into the story and the world created for Bash and Olive’s story!! This is book 3 in the Devotion and Vice series by Athena E.S and I cannot wait for the next book. The first three have been chefs kiss!!!
July 5, 2026
3.75 rounded up for goodreads
First I want to thank Athena E.S for the ARC!
I was super into it at first and then the middle lulled for me a bit and I was left wondering what the plot was aside from the stalking. Thennnn, the last 1/3 of the book sucked me back in and I couldn't stop reading. Groveling is my absolute favorite😭 WHEN HE DROPPED TO HIS KNEES FOR HER??? yesssssss baby 🤏🤏🤏 The ending felt a little rushed though and i was left with a few unanswered questions. I'm HOPING that will lead to a second book👀👀👀
First I want to thank Athena E.S for the ARC!
I was super into it at first and then the middle lulled for me a bit and I was left wondering what the plot was aside from the stalking. Thennnn, the last 1/3 of the book sucked me back in and I couldn't stop reading. Groveling is my absolute favorite😭 WHEN HE DROPPED TO HIS KNEES FOR HER??? yesssssss baby 🤏🤏🤏 The ending felt a little rushed though and i was left with a few unanswered questions. I'm HOPING that will lead to a second book👀👀👀
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book sneaks under your bed and then tells you he’s moving in and to turn off the light so he can sleep.
Your not really sure how you ended up here and yet your somehow okay with it 🤣
This is a fun, fast paced book following a steady plot and some good romance. You’ll be highlighting the entire book whether it’s banter your after or a hea.
Throw on the playlist she created and go meet bash.
He’s the next book boyfriend you didn’t know you needed- but certainly won’t let go of.
Your not really sure how you ended up here and yet your somehow okay with it 🤣
This is a fun, fast paced book following a steady plot and some good romance. You’ll be highlighting the entire book whether it’s banter your after or a hea.
Throw on the playlist she created and go meet bash.
He’s the next book boyfriend you didn’t know you needed- but certainly won’t let go of.
July 9, 2026
So I started this book bc of a tt about Bash 👀 Yes I know tt is hit or miss but I absolutely loved him. Olive giving witchy vibes had me loving her too! Them together though? She was exactly what he needed, someone to love him for him. He was also exactly what she needed, someone to help heal those broken pieces and to not be scared of the darkness but embrace it.
Overall I did enjoy the book so if you want a short dark stalker romance read you’ll enjoy this one 🖤
Overall I did enjoy the book so if you want a short dark stalker romance read you’ll enjoy this one 🖤
Review of advance copy received from Author
Tropes:
🖤Morally Black
🖤Stalker
🖤Touched and ☠️
🖤Enemies to lovers
🖤Slow burn 🔥
The characters in this book are wonderfully dark. He’s a walking red flag that you secretly wish you had in your life.
He’s sent to watch her and bring her back. Instead she breaks him and he kills for her.
The build up is great, it will have you grinning and giggling. Has me low key wishing for a stalker.
🖤Morally Black
🖤Stalker
🖤Touched and ☠️
🖤Enemies to lovers
🖤Slow burn 🔥
The characters in this book are wonderfully dark. He’s a walking red flag that you secretly wish you had in your life.
He’s sent to watch her and bring her back. Instead she breaks him and he kills for her.
The build up is great, it will have you grinning and giggling. Has me low key wishing for a stalker.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 19, 2026
I mostly enjoyed the story, but it didn’t give me enough depth to really care about the characters. The writing style changed throughout the book, starting with a lot of short sentences and paragraphs. It got better, but I still lacked some proper building of the relationship and of the characters.
It was an alright read 🤷🏻♀️
It was an alright read 🤷🏻♀️
Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews