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Middle of the Night
"The only thing you have to fear from the shadows is me."
All Emma Warner wants is a better life. In a city rife with crime and corruption, the only option to cover her mother's medical bills was a loan from a crime boss called the Wolf. Now, after her mother's death, Emma has to work in his seedy nightclub, the Crescent Club, in order to pay off the debt. When the opportunity comes for a new job working for young, elusive billionaire James Kane, Emma jumps at the chance to potentially change her fate and pay off the Wolf even faster.
For two years, a vigilante called the Phantom has been working tirelessly to keep New Atlas safe while keeping his identity hidden. When Emma has a chance encounter with the Phantom one rainy night, her life changes in unimaginable ways.
Now, women are going missing from the Crescent Club. As the missing women begin to turn up dead and a strange new drug hits the criminal underworld, Emma and the Phantom must work together to solve the disappearances before anyone else goes missing–and Emma could be next. She must fight not only to survive, but also to save the city she calls home all while trying to understand her growing feeling for both James Kane and the Phantom.
Except she doesn't know they're the same person.
All Emma Warner wants is a better life. In a city rife with crime and corruption, the only option to cover her mother's medical bills was a loan from a crime boss called the Wolf. Now, after her mother's death, Emma has to work in his seedy nightclub, the Crescent Club, in order to pay off the debt. When the opportunity comes for a new job working for young, elusive billionaire James Kane, Emma jumps at the chance to potentially change her fate and pay off the Wolf even faster.
For two years, a vigilante called the Phantom has been working tirelessly to keep New Atlas safe while keeping his identity hidden. When Emma has a chance encounter with the Phantom one rainy night, her life changes in unimaginable ways.
Now, women are going missing from the Crescent Club. As the missing women begin to turn up dead and a strange new drug hits the criminal underworld, Emma and the Phantom must work together to solve the disappearances before anyone else goes missing–and Emma could be next. She must fight not only to survive, but also to save the city she calls home all while trying to understand her growing feeling for both James Kane and the Phantom.
Except she doesn't know they're the same person.
Audible Audio
Published June 18, 2026
About the author
Shelby Lewis
1 book10 followersShelby Lewis was born and raised in South Carolina. She has a BA in literature and art history from Wofford College (not that she used it, but had a good time earning it). If she’s not writing, she’s usually found curled up with a good book with one or both of her cats or following her husband around to get on his nerves. Middle of the Night is her debut novel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
June 25, 2026
As a reread, a 4.75⭐. Only because I still had some important details fresh in my mind. But still a beautiful, hopeful story🫶🏻
September 21, 2025
*ARC REVIEW*
𝐇𝐨𝐥𝐲 𝐜𝐫𝐚𝐩, 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐛𝐨𝐨𝐤!! 𝘔𝘪𝘥𝘥𝘭𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘕𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵 is such a ride. Fast-paced, full of action, and the characters?? So good. I honestly can’t believe this is a debut. Shelby came out swinging more than the phantom and hit all the right targets.
𝑬𝒎𝒎𝒂 : certified badass. Our fearless female lead has been through it, and instead of crumbling, she’s out here saving others and not taking crap from anyone, especially not some sleazy men. When she decides to do something, she does it, no questions asked. She’s strong, sharp, and relentless.
𝑱𝒂𝒎𝒆𝒔 : brainy vigilante with a moral compass MMC.
While trying to figure out who killed his parents 20 years ago, James wants to clean up the town but draws the line at murder (yay, morals!). He manages to be protective without being annoying or controlling, which is refreshing!
𝑫𝒐𝒖𝒈𝒍𝒂𝒔 : the ultimate side character MVP! He sees all & knows all and isn’t afraid to speak his mind to Emma & James. He is such a caring and protective father figure. Also, he meddles in the best way possible showing how much he truly cares.
The banter and wit between all of them is wonderful. And the slow burn?? Torturously good. I read the whole thing in one day because my brain simply refused to do anything else. (Just ask my dirty apartment)
I also appreciated how James is protective but not in that annoying “I’m the man, let me handle it” way. He respects Emma and lets her be her fierce self. That is very refreshing considering she works in a sketchy underground club and still holds her own and he never tries to stop her or take over. 𝑊𝑒 𝑙𝑜𝑣𝑒 𝑎 𝑟𝑒𝑠𝑝𝑒𝑐𝑡𝑓𝑢𝑙 𝑘𝑖𝑛𝑔
(𝘖𝘬 𝘰𝘬, 𝘴𝘰 𝘩𝘦 𝘵𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘰 𝘴𝘵𝘰𝘱 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘱𝘦𝘤𝘵𝘧𝘶𝘭𝘭𝘺 & 𝘪𝘵’𝘴 𝘌𝘮𝘮𝘢, 𝘴𝘰 𝘴𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘵𝘪𝘭𝘭 𝘥𝘪𝘥 𝘸𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘴𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘢𝘯𝘵𝘦𝘥. 𝓠𝓤𝓔𝓔𝓝!)
And don’t even get me started on the drug plot twist. No spoilers, but it was so wild and original that now I’ll side-eye everyone in public.
Paranoia: activated.
Overall, please read 𝘔𝘪𝘥𝘥𝘭𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘕𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵! It’s amazing 10/10 already yelling at friends to pick it up when it comes out November 6, 2025❤️
𝐇𝐨𝐥𝐲 𝐜𝐫𝐚𝐩, 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐛𝐨𝐨𝐤!! 𝘔𝘪𝘥𝘥𝘭𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘕𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵 is such a ride. Fast-paced, full of action, and the characters?? So good. I honestly can’t believe this is a debut. Shelby came out swinging more than the phantom and hit all the right targets.
𝑬𝒎𝒎𝒂 : certified badass. Our fearless female lead has been through it, and instead of crumbling, she’s out here saving others and not taking crap from anyone, especially not some sleazy men. When she decides to do something, she does it, no questions asked. She’s strong, sharp, and relentless.
𝑱𝒂𝒎𝒆𝒔 : brainy vigilante with a moral compass MMC.
While trying to figure out who killed his parents 20 years ago, James wants to clean up the town but draws the line at murder (yay, morals!). He manages to be protective without being annoying or controlling, which is refreshing!
𝑫𝒐𝒖𝒈𝒍𝒂𝒔 : the ultimate side character MVP! He sees all & knows all and isn’t afraid to speak his mind to Emma & James. He is such a caring and protective father figure. Also, he meddles in the best way possible showing how much he truly cares.
The banter and wit between all of them is wonderful. And the slow burn?? Torturously good. I read the whole thing in one day because my brain simply refused to do anything else. (Just ask my dirty apartment)
I also appreciated how James is protective but not in that annoying “I’m the man, let me handle it” way. He respects Emma and lets her be her fierce self. That is very refreshing considering she works in a sketchy underground club and still holds her own and he never tries to stop her or take over. 𝑊𝑒 𝑙𝑜𝑣𝑒 𝑎 𝑟𝑒𝑠𝑝𝑒𝑐𝑡𝑓𝑢𝑙 𝑘𝑖𝑛𝑔
(𝘖𝘬 𝘰𝘬, 𝘴𝘰 𝘩𝘦 𝘵𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘰 𝘴𝘵𝘰𝘱 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘱𝘦𝘤𝘵𝘧𝘶𝘭𝘭𝘺 & 𝘪𝘵’𝘴 𝘌𝘮𝘮𝘢, 𝘴𝘰 𝘴𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘵𝘪𝘭𝘭 𝘥𝘪𝘥 𝘸𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘴𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘢𝘯𝘵𝘦𝘥. 𝓠𝓤𝓔𝓔𝓝!)
And don’t even get me started on the drug plot twist. No spoilers, but it was so wild and original that now I’ll side-eye everyone in public.
Paranoia: activated.
Overall, please read 𝘔𝘪𝘥𝘥𝘭𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘕𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵! It’s amazing 10/10 already yelling at friends to pick it up when it comes out November 6, 2025❤️
September 27, 2025
It gave me uys vibes and I love that book I love the characters it’s a good book check the trigger warnings your mental health matters but check the book out and have your opinion and thoughts on it ! I enjoyed this one I want more ! 10/10
June 18, 2026
ALC REVIEW
Okay, so this was different. Well, for me. Honestly, I’m not sure why I didn’t read the blurb before accepting the ALC, but here we are. This is not the type of story I gravitate to but that does not mean it isn’t a well-executed story. So, I’m going to focus on that part of the story because if you ask me if I “liked” the story I’d have to say not really, but I didn't dislike it either. Now, ask me if I would recommend it to someone who likes this type of story and my answer would a resounding YES!
This is a pretty fast-paced story full of action at every turn. It is constantly in motion. I like that very much. The 14 hour listening time went by almost like no time at all. The characters were engaging and their chemistry could be felt sparking from the very beginning. I genuinely enjoyed Emma & James. They honestly were a perfect matching set of two people, if that makes sense. The side characters were not just there as props. They helped moved the story forward and added a layer of depth. The slow-burn aspect of James & Emma’s journey was truly the best possible way for this story to have worked, and I honestly was engaged and connected to them thru out the entirety of the story. As I mentioned, this is not a story I would pick out for myself, but it really was a great story all around.
🎧The duet narration performance by Dana Green and Michael Gallagher was excellent. Dana is new-to-me but she nailed every single one of her parts. I’m very familiar with Michael’s work and he did not disappoint. I love how well they worked together and how flawless the production was because if there’s a story that does not need any audio hiccups it’s a story pack with action and twist at every turn.
Thank you to the author for the opportunity to listen to this ALC!
Okay, so this was different. Well, for me. Honestly, I’m not sure why I didn’t read the blurb before accepting the ALC, but here we are. This is not the type of story I gravitate to but that does not mean it isn’t a well-executed story. So, I’m going to focus on that part of the story because if you ask me if I “liked” the story I’d have to say not really, but I didn't dislike it either. Now, ask me if I would recommend it to someone who likes this type of story and my answer would a resounding YES!
This is a pretty fast-paced story full of action at every turn. It is constantly in motion. I like that very much. The 14 hour listening time went by almost like no time at all. The characters were engaging and their chemistry could be felt sparking from the very beginning. I genuinely enjoyed Emma & James. They honestly were a perfect matching set of two people, if that makes sense. The side characters were not just there as props. They helped moved the story forward and added a layer of depth. The slow-burn aspect of James & Emma’s journey was truly the best possible way for this story to have worked, and I honestly was engaged and connected to them thru out the entirety of the story. As I mentioned, this is not a story I would pick out for myself, but it really was a great story all around.
🎧The duet narration performance by Dana Green and Michael Gallagher was excellent. Dana is new-to-me but she nailed every single one of her parts. I’m very familiar with Michael’s work and he did not disappoint. I love how well they worked together and how flawless the production was because if there’s a story that does not need any audio hiccups it’s a story pack with action and twist at every turn.
Thank you to the author for the opportunity to listen to this ALC!
June 7, 2026
ALC Review:
Duet Narration by Dana Green and Micheal Gallagher
Tropes:
Vigilante Romance
Secret identities
Action packed
Slow burn
Found family
Shelby Lewis is a new author to me, and the fact that this is her debut is mind-blowing because the sheer originality of this book completely blew me away.
The story follows Emma, our fiercely resourceful FMC trapped under the thumb of a club owner named Wolf, who finds herself entangled with elusive billionaire James Kane and a masked vigilante known as the Phantom as they investigate a string of missing women.
This book tackles heavy themes that sparked intense feminine rage in me—specifically the sickening injustice of Emma being brutally penalized at work. It makes you root for the Phantom's brand of justice even harder. He gives major dark Batman vibes, and the slow-burn attraction and complex feelings Emma develops are top-tier.
The narration was perfect. New to me, narrator Dana Green and Michael Gallagher delivered phenomenal performances. They captured every action sequence and emotional undertone flawlessly.
Huge thanks to Shelby Lewis for this incredible ALC!!
Duet Narration by Dana Green and Micheal Gallagher
Tropes:
Vigilante Romance
Secret identities
Action packed
Slow burn
Found family
Shelby Lewis is a new author to me, and the fact that this is her debut is mind-blowing because the sheer originality of this book completely blew me away.
The story follows Emma, our fiercely resourceful FMC trapped under the thumb of a club owner named Wolf, who finds herself entangled with elusive billionaire James Kane and a masked vigilante known as the Phantom as they investigate a string of missing women.
This book tackles heavy themes that sparked intense feminine rage in me—specifically the sickening injustice of Emma being brutally penalized at work. It makes you root for the Phantom's brand of justice even harder. He gives major dark Batman vibes, and the slow-burn attraction and complex feelings Emma develops are top-tier.
The narration was perfect. New to me, narrator Dana Green and Michael Gallagher delivered phenomenal performances. They captured every action sequence and emotional undertone flawlessly.
Huge thanks to Shelby Lewis for this incredible ALC!!
June 18, 2026
★ ★ ★ ★ ★ genuinely best thing I've probably read, slight complaints but didn't falter review. Would recommend 100% ˘͈ᵕ˘͈
——
Ive had the amazing chance to also have ARC for the audiobook for an honest review! Absolutely amazing, I don’t even listen to audiobooks but I had to support my girl and I was sucked in right away!!!! The VAs did incredible and I will be listening to this in the background when doing chores! (be aware I wrote the book review before audiobook, everything here is 110% the truth!) Shelby IS amazing!!! Thank you!
——
Okay WOW! If you're a reader that enjoys batman or other vigilante works or a strong FMC who's not afraid to murder for the MMC or he fell; she fell harder tropes. THIS IS FOR YOU!!!!
╭┄┄┄┄┄-·-·-·-｡ﾟ･｡ﾟ･
This book delves into our fmc Emma who is in debt with this dangerous shark, forced to work in his bar. While walking home our mmc literally falls off a building in front of her. She recognizes him as the cities vigilante (Phantom) and patches a knife wound for him in her apartment.
She applies for a second job to pay her debts off to be offered the assistants job, a live in assistant. Unaware her new boss (James Kane, a multi-millionaire) is secretly the vigilante she met the other night...
This book takes you on a full adventure of Emma and Phantom teaming up to figure out who's the culprit to her coworkers disappearances at her club. To uncovering dark truths and even getting kidnapped for the safety of the city. What happens when emotions and truths are revealed? Will they figure out what this drug is before it gets to them? What happens when one is forced to do something they never wanted to do? Will they figure out this mystery before it kills them?
THIS book is so good especially for being a debut novel! This book gets dark, it breaks your heart. The unsaid emotions spilling out in absolute devastating times. My one out of many admirations' with James is he doesn't stop Emma from doing what she wants!!
I was so scared for a closed door but luckily there was no smut needed as 90% of the book is them solving a crime together with tension!
My one complaint is it's 3rd person! Despite it being duel pov it's still in 3rd, which I'm not sure I enjoyed as much! But seriously this book is fantastic and the chemistry between them wow.
Please be aware of triggers within this book, there are threats of sexual assault, physical assault on fmc (not by mmc) a scene of homicide, forced violence between fmc & mmc, kidnapping and drugging
╰┄┄┄┄┄┄┄꒰꒱₊˚・｡ﾟ･
╭┄┄┄┄┄-·-·-·-｡ﾟ･｡ﾟ･
My favorite quotes :
"Emma was going to solve this case if it killed her. Anything to help him. Anything to save him"
"It terrified him that he would kill for her. That he would die for her."
“I couldn’t live with myself if I was the cause of you getting hurt!” he half-shouted
“And I couldn’t live with myself if your stupid lack of self-preservation got you killed!” she shouted back.
╰┄┄┄┄┄┄┄꒰꒱₊˚・｡ﾟ･
I racked up 421 highlights :0
THANK YOU FOR READING MY REVIEW <3
----
╭ ━☆・*。 Pre-read
I saw this on instagram and couldn’t be more excited to read this!!! I am a little nervous about closed door but I won’t judge until I’ve read it! Can’t wait to tell you guys how it is!!💫
——
Ive had the amazing chance to also have ARC for the audiobook for an honest review! Absolutely amazing, I don’t even listen to audiobooks but I had to support my girl and I was sucked in right away!!!! The VAs did incredible and I will be listening to this in the background when doing chores! (be aware I wrote the book review before audiobook, everything here is 110% the truth!) Shelby IS amazing!!! Thank you!
——
Okay WOW! If you're a reader that enjoys batman or other vigilante works or a strong FMC who's not afraid to murder for the MMC or he fell; she fell harder tropes. THIS IS FOR YOU!!!!
╭┄┄┄┄┄-·-·-·-｡ﾟ･｡ﾟ･
This book delves into our fmc Emma who is in debt with this dangerous shark, forced to work in his bar. While walking home our mmc literally falls off a building in front of her. She recognizes him as the cities vigilante (Phantom) and patches a knife wound for him in her apartment.
She applies for a second job to pay her debts off to be offered the assistants job, a live in assistant. Unaware her new boss (James Kane, a multi-millionaire) is secretly the vigilante she met the other night...
This book takes you on a full adventure of Emma and Phantom teaming up to figure out who's the culprit to her coworkers disappearances at her club. To uncovering dark truths and even getting kidnapped for the safety of the city. What happens when emotions and truths are revealed? Will they figure out what this drug is before it gets to them? What happens when one is forced to do something they never wanted to do? Will they figure out this mystery before it kills them?
THIS book is so good especially for being a debut novel! This book gets dark, it breaks your heart. The unsaid emotions spilling out in absolute devastating times. My one out of many admirations' with James is he doesn't stop Emma from doing what she wants!!
I was so scared for a closed door but luckily there was no smut needed as 90% of the book is them solving a crime together with tension!
My one complaint is it's 3rd person! Despite it being duel pov it's still in 3rd, which I'm not sure I enjoyed as much! But seriously this book is fantastic and the chemistry between them wow.
Please be aware of triggers within this book, there are threats of sexual assault, physical assault on fmc (not by mmc) a scene of homicide, forced violence between fmc & mmc, kidnapping and drugging
╰┄┄┄┄┄┄┄꒰꒱₊˚・｡ﾟ･
╭┄┄┄┄┄-·-·-·-｡ﾟ･｡ﾟ･
My favorite quotes :
"Emma was going to solve this case if it killed her. Anything to help him. Anything to save him"
"It terrified him that he would kill for her. That he would die for her."
“I couldn’t live with myself if I was the cause of you getting hurt!” he half-shouted
“And I couldn’t live with myself if your stupid lack of self-preservation got you killed!” she shouted back.
╰┄┄┄┄┄┄┄꒰꒱₊˚・｡ﾟ･
I racked up 421 highlights :0
THANK YOU FOR READING MY REVIEW <3
----
╭ ━☆・*。 Pre-read
I saw this on instagram and couldn’t be more excited to read this!!! I am a little nervous about closed door but I won’t judge until I’ve read it! Can’t wait to tell you guys how it is!!💫
October 6, 2025
Woah. A Batman retelling that had me on the edge of my seat. Middle of the night is a fast paced adrenaline fueled romance that will have your heart pounding and wanting more!! l am a sucker for slow burns and this was the perfect rendition of the slowest of burns 🔥 The tension, the yearning, absolute perfection. Shelby Lewis did Batman justice ⚖️ I could not put this book down and when I had to put it down it was all I could think about. I needed to know what happened next.
***Arc Review***
I had the pleasure of reading this gem before it was released. Middle of the Night by Shelby Lewis will be available Nov. 6th, 2025. Do yourself a favor and read it!
Emma is a young woman who ends up tangled up with a dangerous loanshark because she wanted to try and save her sick mothers life, but couldn't afford the care her mother needed. The loanshark is also the owner of a night club and makes Emma work for him to pay off her loan. He essentially owns her.
The Phantom is a vigilante who just wants to make his city New Atlas a safer place while trying to rid it of crime and corruption after something unfathomable happens to him as a child and law enforcement doesn't help.
James Kane is a CEO billionaire who inherited his father's pharmaceutical company after his passing. James is in need of an assistant and luckily Emma gets the job. James loves nothing more than his privacy. Emma wants nothing more than to figure James Kane out.
Emma meets the Phantom and ends up helping him with a dangerous case where women from her night club job are going missing and turning up dead. What could go wrong?!
***Arc Review***
I had the pleasure of reading this gem before it was released. Middle of the Night by Shelby Lewis will be available Nov. 6th, 2025. Do yourself a favor and read it!
Emma is a young woman who ends up tangled up with a dangerous loanshark because she wanted to try and save her sick mothers life, but couldn't afford the care her mother needed. The loanshark is also the owner of a night club and makes Emma work for him to pay off her loan. He essentially owns her.
The Phantom is a vigilante who just wants to make his city New Atlas a safer place while trying to rid it of crime and corruption after something unfathomable happens to him as a child and law enforcement doesn't help.
James Kane is a CEO billionaire who inherited his father's pharmaceutical company after his passing. James is in need of an assistant and luckily Emma gets the job. James loves nothing more than his privacy. Emma wants nothing more than to figure James Kane out.
Emma meets the Phantom and ends up helping him with a dangerous case where women from her night club job are going missing and turning up dead. What could go wrong?!
October 29, 2025
I just finished Middle of the Night by Shelby Lewis, and I honestly can’t believe this is her debut! This quickly became one of my favorite reads of the year and an easy ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ for me.
This book gave me Under Your Scars vibes (which is another all time favorite), and I loved the little Easter eggs sprinkled throughout. Shelby’s writing pulled me in instantly. Emotional, fast-paced, and so full of heart.
The story follows Emma and James (aka Phantom), two characters with messy pasts and deep emotional scars who find themselves wrapped up in a dark and dangerous mystery. A new drug is hitting the streets, taking away people’s free will, and women are disappearing. Emma works at a shady underground club where many of these women vanish, and soon she’s teaming up with Phantom to uncover what’s really happening, all while trying not to fall for him.
The chemistry between these two is perfection. Their banter? Top tier. Their slow burn? Torturously good. James is protective in all the right ways without ever taking away Emma’s strength or independence (we love a respectful king 👑). The side characters Douglas, Kendrick, and Marie add so much depth and personality to the story.
The suspense kept me up way too late (I fell asleep reading more than once because I just couldn’t stop). The twists were wild and original, especially the drug plot line. I found myself side eyeing everyone by the end. Paranoia: fully activated.
This was emotional, romantic, thrilling, and unforgettable. I laughed, cried, and highlighted so many lines. I’ll be recommending this one to everyone when it releases November 6, 2025!
This book gave me Under Your Scars vibes (which is another all time favorite), and I loved the little Easter eggs sprinkled throughout. Shelby’s writing pulled me in instantly. Emotional, fast-paced, and so full of heart.
The story follows Emma and James (aka Phantom), two characters with messy pasts and deep emotional scars who find themselves wrapped up in a dark and dangerous mystery. A new drug is hitting the streets, taking away people’s free will, and women are disappearing. Emma works at a shady underground club where many of these women vanish, and soon she’s teaming up with Phantom to uncover what’s really happening, all while trying not to fall for him.
The chemistry between these two is perfection. Their banter? Top tier. Their slow burn? Torturously good. James is protective in all the right ways without ever taking away Emma’s strength or independence (we love a respectful king 👑). The side characters Douglas, Kendrick, and Marie add so much depth and personality to the story.
The suspense kept me up way too late (I fell asleep reading more than once because I just couldn’t stop). The twists were wild and original, especially the drug plot line. I found myself side eyeing everyone by the end. Paranoia: fully activated.
This was emotional, romantic, thrilling, and unforgettable. I laughed, cried, and highlighted so many lines. I’ll be recommending this one to everyone when it releases November 6, 2025!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 5, 2025
Middle of the Night by Shelby Lewis is a thrilling, darkly romantic page-turner that perfectly blends mystery, suspense, and passion. Lewis crafts a gripping tale of secrets, danger, and redemption, where every twist pulls you deeper into New Atlas’s shadowy underworld. Emma and the Phantom’s story crackles with tension and emotion, keeping you guessing until the very end. A must-read for fans of vigilante intrigue and slow-burn romance this book will keep you up way past the middle of the night.
November 4, 2025
5 star read!! Thank you for the ARC Shelby Lewis!! This vigilante slow burn romance kept me on the edge of my seat! Emma meets the Phantom and decides to help him take down the bad guys of New Atlas while also working for the eligible bachelor billionaire James Kane. I loved both main characters and how their flaws and determination brought them together. This was a gripping, exciting, fast-paced ride where I was rooting for the hero’s the whole time. A must read!!
June 3, 2026
" She was someone made of light. Even with her own shadows, she was the brightest thing he had ever seen."
Okay, so this book was 🔥🔥🔥 I can't believe I just heard about this!!
This was dark action romance retelling/ fan fiction of the Batman movie (2022). I loved almost every second of this book, I couldn't put it down. It felt like watching a movie or tv-show about the corrupt underworld of New Atlas and people surviving in it. I couldn't get enough of the slow burn and tension and yearning between the main characters. It was refreshing to read a dark romance, that was slow burn but ALSO closed door romance. Dark romance doesn't have to be all about the spicy moments, there's so much more to it.
"Every time he saw her, he became a little more human."
"His world did not exist without her in it. It couldn't. "
What to expect:
- dual pov
- murder mystery
- closed door romance with slow burn
- dark romance filled with action
- tension and yearning
- mmc obsessed with the fmc
- closed proximity
- hidden identity
- poor girl (underground club hostess/bartender + his assistant) x millionaire CEO
- strong fmc
- grumpy, sweet and little bit akward mmc
"But James wasn't okay. He wouldn't be until this was over. Until she was safe. Until he had gotten rid of every monster that could hurt her."
"How could he express how thoroughly he worshiped her"
Okay, so this book was 🔥🔥🔥 I can't believe I just heard about this!!
This was dark action romance retelling/ fan fiction of the Batman movie (2022). I loved almost every second of this book, I couldn't put it down. It felt like watching a movie or tv-show about the corrupt underworld of New Atlas and people surviving in it. I couldn't get enough of the slow burn and tension and yearning between the main characters. It was refreshing to read a dark romance, that was slow burn but ALSO closed door romance. Dark romance doesn't have to be all about the spicy moments, there's so much more to it.
"Every time he saw her, he became a little more human."
"His world did not exist without her in it. It couldn't. "
What to expect:
- dual pov
- murder mystery
- closed door romance with slow burn
- dark romance filled with action
- tension and yearning
- mmc obsessed with the fmc
- closed proximity
- hidden identity
- poor girl (underground club hostess/bartender + his assistant) x millionaire CEO
- strong fmc
- grumpy, sweet and little bit akward mmc
"But James wasn't okay. He wouldn't be until this was over. Until she was safe. Until he had gotten rid of every monster that could hurt her."
"How could he express how thoroughly he worshiped her"
June 9, 2026
Considering this is Shelby Lewis' first published book, its a great read.
I've got to listen to the Audiobook and find the VAs a good choice. The story build up has a good pace and a great mix of Tension and action. The development of the romance is also well done and having a Female Lead that is strong and brave is always nice to have.
If you like slow burn romance with action, this is a great read!
I've got to listen to the Audiobook and find the VAs a good choice. The story build up has a good pace and a great mix of Tension and action. The development of the romance is also well done and having a Female Lead that is strong and brave is always nice to have.
If you like slow burn romance with action, this is a great read!
June 15, 2026
Ahhhh that slow burn was so good! 🥵. This was a super fun vigilante romance. I love when romances have both the male and female POVs the way this one did. The audiobook narration was top notch and I couldn’t put this book down. I loved the action, the banter, and all the things! For fans of Batman retellings, you will love this! It’s a closed door romance…. But ohhh how I wish we had a deleted scene 😉
November 12, 2025
I really appreciated how the action began immediately to get you hooked into the story! INCREDIBLE strong female lead, an absolute bad ass!
Fast-paced, intense (I was definitely stressed out at times!) and action packed! And then using a slow-burn romance to balance it out? Love!
Fast-paced, intense (I was definitely stressed out at times!) and action packed! And then using a slow-burn romance to balance it out? Love!
June 18, 2026
I had the pleasure of receiving this audio through ARC.
It is such a great story reminded me of the show Arrow a bit which is one of my favorite shows ❤️
If you love a good billionaire/vigilante this story is for you.
Thank you so much for the opportunity 🙏🏼
It is such a great story reminded me of the show Arrow a bit which is one of my favorite shows ❤️
If you love a good billionaire/vigilante this story is for you.
Thank you so much for the opportunity 🙏🏼
May 20, 2026
There are so many great things to say about this book. I loved the fierceness and fight in Emma. I love how she saved herself several times but she also still needed him. The tension is high with this one. With the action and the romantic tension, I couldn’t turn the page fast enough!
November 28, 2025
So... Batman fanfic disguised as something new. Ehhhhhh.
September 16, 2025
I recently discovered Shelby and her upcoming debut story, it sounded interesting so I gave it a shot. And I found it to be an exciting read, filled with everything from suspense and twists, to romance and thrills. The cast was interesting and the dialog had some spunk, making this story fun and entertaining as well.
This is a strong debut that I 100% enjoyed, and I look forward to seeing what Shelby has for us next. Nice job on it!!
This is a strong debut that I 100% enjoyed, and I look forward to seeing what Shelby has for us next. Nice job on it!!
June 22, 2026
I went into this story blind and was pleasantly surprised by how much it captivated me. It's neo-noir atmosphere, Batman inspired storytelling, and Sin City esque dialogue- had me gripped from cover to cover. Shelby Lewis perfectly delivers an action packed romance, while also serving some intense on page scenes. All true to the heart of the story and setting. Its impact intentional and genuine, keeping us on our toes till the very end.
Our vigilante's tragic past is what leads him to become The Phantom. His sole purpose is to rid New Atlas of its scum and get answers to what happened to his parents. Emma, is caught in the crosshairs of The Wolf and her city. Her motivations? To pay off a debt of the mother she no longer has. By chance, The Phantom is dropped into her life and the pair begin a tumultuous dance of push and pull. Their slow burn, banter, tension, and angst, llifting off the page and thickly felt throughout.
I immersion read this with the ALC that was gifted to me by the author. Not only did the narrators do an excellent job at becoming all characters, but they helped bring the story's atmosphere to life. It was almost initimate and often felt like you were there, right along for the ride. The cadence assumed for Emma's quirkiness/sass and The Phantom's tortured soul, was absolutely phenomenal. Dana Green and Michael Gallager deliver a spectacular performance.
If you like Batman, but written by a woman...this book is for you!
Our vigilante's tragic past is what leads him to become The Phantom. His sole purpose is to rid New Atlas of its scum and get answers to what happened to his parents. Emma, is caught in the crosshairs of The Wolf and her city. Her motivations? To pay off a debt of the mother she no longer has. By chance, The Phantom is dropped into her life and the pair begin a tumultuous dance of push and pull. Their slow burn, banter, tension, and angst, llifting off the page and thickly felt throughout.
I immersion read this with the ALC that was gifted to me by the author. Not only did the narrators do an excellent job at becoming all characters, but they helped bring the story's atmosphere to life. It was almost initimate and often felt like you were there, right along for the ride. The cadence assumed for Emma's quirkiness/sass and The Phantom's tortured soul, was absolutely phenomenal. Dana Green and Michael Gallager deliver a spectacular performance.
If you like Batman, but written by a woman...this book is for you!
November 21, 2025
I LOVE THIS BOOK!
Listen everyone, Shelby and I have been OG fans of each other for a long time now and I am SO proud of her for taking this step and publishing this book!
I loved this book so much that I woke up in the middle of the night (heh) because I NEEDED to have more of it in my brain.
I love James and Emma and their push and pull dynamic. Idiots in love, who doesn’t love them for that? I think their high-stakes relationship was SO real. I also loved all the background characters, Kendrick, Douglas, Marie, they all helped make the world feel alive and connected. There’s so much action that it never felt slow, and I loved that every little thing that happened tied into the major conflict of the book, making for a very satisfying ending and that love confession fueled by anger was CHEFS KISS!
And the little references to Under Your Scars…James Kane x Christian Reeves book WHEN???!?!?
I also wanted to say I’ve read this book about a zillion times before it was published and it STILL hits, I still found myself not wanting to put it down, and still got emotional at the heavy scenes.
Shelby, I LOVE YOU GIRL AND IM SO PROUD OF YOU!!! I can’t wait to see what comes next!
Listen everyone, Shelby and I have been OG fans of each other for a long time now and I am SO proud of her for taking this step and publishing this book!
I loved this book so much that I woke up in the middle of the night (heh) because I NEEDED to have more of it in my brain.
I love James and Emma and their push and pull dynamic. Idiots in love, who doesn’t love them for that? I think their high-stakes relationship was SO real. I also loved all the background characters, Kendrick, Douglas, Marie, they all helped make the world feel alive and connected. There’s so much action that it never felt slow, and I loved that every little thing that happened tied into the major conflict of the book, making for a very satisfying ending and that love confession fueled by anger was CHEFS KISS!
And the little references to Under Your Scars…James Kane x Christian Reeves book WHEN???!?!?
I also wanted to say I’ve read this book about a zillion times before it was published and it STILL hits, I still found myself not wanting to put it down, and still got emotional at the heavy scenes.
Shelby, I LOVE YOU GIRL AND IM SO PROUD OF YOU!!! I can’t wait to see what comes next!
September 29, 2025
This book follows Emma and James aka "Phantom". While this book definitely gave me Batman vibes it was still very well written. I really loved the she falls in love, he falls in love, but neither can admit it to the other.
In a city full of corruption, a new drug has hit the street and women are disappearing and some come up unalive. Emma works at a shady night club where the women are disappearing from. She decides to help the Phantom with investigating these girls gone missing at the same time she starts working as James Kanes assistant.
Emma and Phantom both have horrible experiences with this drug that takes away a person's free will. This drug makes people trapped in their own bodies. They are aware of everything around they yet they are controlled by anyone that has the anti-agent in their system.
In the end James and Emma find love in each other and help each other heal from their past traumas. Happy Reading!
In a city full of corruption, a new drug has hit the street and women are disappearing and some come up unalive. Emma works at a shady night club where the women are disappearing from. She decides to help the Phantom with investigating these girls gone missing at the same time she starts working as James Kanes assistant.
Emma and Phantom both have horrible experiences with this drug that takes away a person's free will. This drug makes people trapped in their own bodies. They are aware of everything around they yet they are controlled by anyone that has the anti-agent in their system.
In the end James and Emma find love in each other and help each other heal from their past traumas. Happy Reading!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 7, 2025
Arc Review✨📚
4.75⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
1🌶️
Release: 11/6
This action packed, Batman inspired romance had me intrigued from the first chapter🤌🏻the writing was so well done - I honestly can’t believe this is a debut! I loved the witty banter between our MC’s🤭and that drug plot twist?! Didn’t see that coming!
Emma’s a true badass in the sense that she doesn’t take crap from anyone, but don’t let that fool you - she has a heart of gold. Dealing with the aftermath of losing her mom to cancer she feels lonely in the big city.😭James is a stud muffin, billionaire who also happens to be a genius with morals. For the past 20 years his parent’s murders have remained unsolved and while trying to solve them he’s out in the streets kicking the bad guys’ ass.💪🏻
Overall it’s an amazing book - if you’re read Under Your Scars by Ariel Andersen and loved it then you’ll love this book as well! It’s on the lighter side of dark romance, no emotional damage was experienced during the reading of this masterpiece.✨
4.75⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
1🌶️
Release: 11/6
This action packed, Batman inspired romance had me intrigued from the first chapter🤌🏻the writing was so well done - I honestly can’t believe this is a debut! I loved the witty banter between our MC’s🤭and that drug plot twist?! Didn’t see that coming!
Emma’s a true badass in the sense that she doesn’t take crap from anyone, but don’t let that fool you - she has a heart of gold. Dealing with the aftermath of losing her mom to cancer she feels lonely in the big city.😭James is a stud muffin, billionaire who also happens to be a genius with morals. For the past 20 years his parent’s murders have remained unsolved and while trying to solve them he’s out in the streets kicking the bad guys’ ass.💪🏻
Overall it’s an amazing book - if you’re read Under Your Scars by Ariel Andersen and loved it then you’ll love this book as well! It’s on the lighter side of dark romance, no emotional damage was experienced during the reading of this masterpiece.✨
March 13, 2026
I always love discovering indie authors, and Middle of the Night by Shelby Lewis ended up being such a fun surprise!
This Batman-inspired retelling had so much chaotic energy and character chemistry. The dynamics between the characters were easily my favorite part — their banter and the situations they found themselves in kept the story entertaining and made it hard to put down.
There were a few moments where the pacing felt a little slower, especially in some longer conversations, but the overall story and character relationships kept me invested. The fun premise and strong chemistry really carried the book.
If you enjoy:
🖤 retellings
🖤 chaotic character energy
🖤 strong banter and chemistry
🖤 indie books that deserve more attention
I definitely recommend giving this one a try!
Indie authors put so much heart into their stories, and I’m really glad I picked this one up.
This Batman-inspired retelling had so much chaotic energy and character chemistry. The dynamics between the characters were easily my favorite part — their banter and the situations they found themselves in kept the story entertaining and made it hard to put down.
There were a few moments where the pacing felt a little slower, especially in some longer conversations, but the overall story and character relationships kept me invested. The fun premise and strong chemistry really carried the book.
If you enjoy:
🖤 retellings
🖤 chaotic character energy
🖤 strong banter and chemistry
🖤 indie books that deserve more attention
I definitely recommend giving this one a try!
Indie authors put so much heart into their stories, and I’m really glad I picked this one up.
July 14, 2026
I went into this book blind and immediately got Batman and Under Your Scars vibes.
The masked vigilante is always fun to read but the FMC was really hard for me to like.
Trying to insert yourself into a murder case that puts the vigilante in danger (and yourself) will never be a good idea! I just couldn’t get on board with the decisions she was constantly making.
And don’t get mad at me but there is zero spice!! Booo!!
I didn’t get invested with any of the characters, this is definitely a slow burn.
The plot was good, that’s what kept me reading. It’s not a mystery though, you find out fairly early who’s behind everything.
If you don’t care for spice in your romance and don’t expect a mystery but want a Batman retelling you’ll enjoy this book.
The masked vigilante is always fun to read but the FMC was really hard for me to like.
Trying to insert yourself into a murder case that puts the vigilante in danger (and yourself) will never be a good idea! I just couldn’t get on board with the decisions she was constantly making.
And don’t get mad at me but there is zero spice!! Booo!!
I didn’t get invested with any of the characters, this is definitely a slow burn.
The plot was good, that’s what kept me reading. It’s not a mystery though, you find out fairly early who’s behind everything.
If you don’t care for spice in your romance and don’t expect a mystery but want a Batman retelling you’ll enjoy this book.
January 20, 2026
As someone who grew up reading and loving the vigilante stories in comic books, this book is a dream come true. From the villains and the heroes to the setting and the final set up, this book is a like a love letter to all the vigilante stories before it, with its own unique twists. The vibes of this book are perfect: down-on-her-luck but tough girl has a life-changing encounter with someone who is just as angry with the injustices in her town as she is…who empowers her to take that anger and make a difference.
If you have ever consumed any kind of vigilante media in your life, this book is a must-read.
If you have ever consumed any kind of vigilante media in your life, this book is a must-read.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Secret Identities
Vigilante Romance
Slow Burn
Found Family
3rd Person POV
Duet narration - Dana Green & Michael Gallagher
New to me author Shelby Lewis. I enjoyed the writing. It was both interesting and unique storyline. I enjoyed the characters. The "batman" type vibes was fun. This is an action packed, slow burn romance that will have you on the edge of your seat. the narrators were fabulous. I normally have a hard time with 3rd person POV but this one was easy to get into.
Overall, a unique and entertaining listen that I definitely recommend.
Vigilante Romance
Slow Burn
Found Family
3rd Person POV
Duet narration - Dana Green & Michael Gallagher
New to me author Shelby Lewis. I enjoyed the writing. It was both interesting and unique storyline. I enjoyed the characters. The "batman" type vibes was fun. This is an action packed, slow burn romance that will have you on the edge of your seat. the narrators were fabulous. I normally have a hard time with 3rd person POV but this one was easy to get into.
Overall, a unique and entertaining listen that I definitely recommend.
June 19, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️
I had the pleasure of listening to Middle of the Night by Shelby Lewis as part of the ALC team, and I really enjoyed the audiobook experience. The narration was engaging and brought the story and characters to life, making it easy to stay immersed from start to finish.
This book delivered an emotional story with characters I found myself invested in. The pacing kept me interested, and there were plenty of moments that had me eager to see what would happen next. While there were a few areas where I wanted a little more depth or development, overall it was a thoroughly enjoyable read and listen. Well done to Dana Green and Michael Gallagher for the amazing performance.
If you enjoy emotional storytelling, relatable characters, and a well-produced audiobook, I would recommend listening to Middle of the Night.
🌶️
I had the pleasure of listening to Middle of the Night by Shelby Lewis as part of the ALC team, and I really enjoyed the audiobook experience. The narration was engaging and brought the story and characters to life, making it easy to stay immersed from start to finish.
This book delivered an emotional story with characters I found myself invested in. The pacing kept me interested, and there were plenty of moments that had me eager to see what would happen next. While there were a few areas where I wanted a little more depth or development, overall it was a thoroughly enjoyable read and listen. Well done to Dana Green and Michael Gallagher for the amazing performance.
If you enjoy emotional storytelling, relatable characters, and a well-produced audiobook, I would recommend listening to Middle of the Night.
November 6, 2025
I did not realise before starting with this novel that there was a fairly modern day setting, which is something I usually am not a big fan of.
Luckily, I got reading since I had already started on it, and liked what I had read so far. I am very happy I did!
Highly recommended as something new and fun in this genre.
Thank you to the author for the opportunity to read this masterpiece as an ARC.
Luckily, I got reading since I had already started on it, and liked what I had read so far. I am very happy I did!
Highly recommended as something new and fun in this genre.
Thank you to the author for the opportunity to read this masterpiece as an ARC.
June 23, 2026
I listened to the audiobook and I really can’t get over it! I loved this book, and I found myself thinking about it often even after finishing it.
There’s just something about a deeply in-love vigilante that makes the story even better.
The book also touches on some really heavy and emotional subjects, which made the story feel even more intense.
I’m still not over this story — highly recommend if you want a story that stays with you!
There’s just something about a deeply in-love vigilante that makes the story even better.
The book also touches on some really heavy and emotional subjects, which made the story feel even more intense.
I’m still not over this story — highly recommend if you want a story that stays with you!
June 20, 2026
Loved this one ! The audio is great , male and female narrators , great banter , slow burn , Batman inspired like a new Gotham but it’s New Atlas City , where crime and violence meets a vigilante protector of the city . Loved the male and female characters and even with closed door romance we get all the feel and depicting of romance yasssss . Fun time give it a read AND a listen !!
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