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MILDEC: "Just Another Military Stalker Romance

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When safety feels certain, Danger is already insideA baby was supposed to be the answer. For Gabriella and Chris, it was the final, frantic attempt to bridge the distance between them. That was before the deployment forced them apart. But when Chris leaves, he leaves Gabby alone in a house that feels more like a tomb than a sanctuary. The warmth of their last days together soon curdles into a cold, creeping dread. Something is moving in the quiet corners of the rooms they intended to fill with life. As the line between her crumbling mental state and a physical threat blurs, Gabby discovers that some secrets don't stay hidden in the dark. They hunt.

The unfortunate truth always echoes true.

The safer you feel,

the more vulnerable you are.

332 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 8, 2026

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Erin Silva

2 books17 followers

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
Profile Image for Lisa Gainers.
315 reviews7 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
September 28, 2026
Thank you for the ARC, here is my honest review.

When a book leaves you sitting there in tears with absolutely NO words…you know it’s a good one.

This book had me questioning everything, wanting to throw my Kindle, and also wanting to wrap the FMC in a giant hug. There were so many moments where I was just scratching my head thinking, “Wait…WHAT?”

I really enjoy this author’s writing style and the way she handles heavier topics like grief and mental health while still bringing in those lighter moments that make the characters feel real and relatable.

If you’re looking for a quick, emotional read that will have you feeling ALL the things, pick this one up!
Profile Image for erika mauldin.
28 reviews
October 8, 2026
Thank you for the ARC! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I went into MILDEC expecting only a stalker romance but what I got was an emotional roller coaster that left me sitting in tears, questioning everything, and wondering what on earth I had just read…in the best possible way.

This book had me wanting to stare at the wall one moment and wrap Gabriella in the biggest hug the next. There were so many moments when I found myself thinking, “Wait… WHAT?!” I genuinely didn't know what to believe at times, and that psychological uncertainty kept me invested in the story.

Gabriella was such a wonderfully imperfect main character. She's sarcastic, stubborn, angry, messy, and incredibly human. I loved that she wasn't written to be a flawless heroine. Her humor, especially during some of the darkest moments, made her feel real and relatable.

And Chris… 😭 I loved the little moments between him and Gabriella. Their teasing, arguments, and comfortable familiarity captured the feeling of a couple who have truly experienced life together. Their relationship brought so much emotion to the story and made certain moments hit that much harder.
I also have to mention Becca! She brought some much-needed humor and lightness to an otherwise heavy story. Her loyalty to Gabriella and their friendship were easily among my favorite parts of the book.

What impressed me most was Erin Silva's ability to tackle such difficult subjects while still weaving in humor, love, and moments of genuine connection. The story explores grief, infertility, deployment, cancer, mental health, stalking, and loss. These aren't easy topics, but the author handles them in a way that makes the characters' emotions feel raw and believable.
The psychological elements were especially compelling. Being inside Gabriella's perspective, experiencing her confusion and grief, and constantly questioning what was real made this such an unsettling and emotional read.

Even though the pacing slowed in a few places, and some emotional moments felt a little repetitive, I found myself wishing for a bit more romance between Gabriella and Chris as the story progressed. However, neither of those things took away from the overall impact this book had on me.

By the end, I had laughed, cried, questioned everything, and sat there with absolutely NO words.

When a book leaves you staring at the final page with tears in your eyes, you know it's a good one.
If you're looking for a quick but emotionally intense read that will make you feel ALL the things, pick this one up.
Please check the trigger warnings beforehand.
An unforgettable, heartbreaking, and beautifully messy read. Bravo!
4 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
September 10, 2026
⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4/5

This book was SO much more than I expected.

I went into MILDEC expecting a military stalker romance, but this book ended up taking me on a much more emotional and psychological journey than I anticipated.

Gabriella was definitely the highlight for me. She is sarcastic, stubborn, angry, messy and incredibly human. I loved that she wasn't written as a perfect heroine. Her humour, especially when dealing with some of the darker things happening around her, made her feel incredibly real.

And Chris… 😭 Their relationship was one of my favourite parts of the book. I loved the little moments between them—the teasing, the arguments and the comfortable familiarity of a couple who have really lived life together. It made the later parts of the story hit so much harder.

The psychological aspect was probably what surprised me most. There were moments where I genuinely wasn't sure what was real and what wasn't. Being inside Gabriella's perspective and experiencing her confusion and grief made the story feel very unsettling at times—in a good way.

Also, BECCA. 😂 I absolutely loved her. She brought some much-needed humour to an incredibly heavy story, but she was also such a loyal friend to Gabriella. Their friendship was one of my favourite relationships in the book.

That being said, this is not a light read. There are A LOT of heavy topics—stalking, infertility, deployment, cancer, grief, mental health and loss. So definitely check the trigger warnings before going in.

I did feel that the pacing slowed down in places, and some of the emotional moments felt a little repetitive. I also would have loved a bit more romance between Gabriella and Chris, especially as the story progressed.

But overall? This book made me laugh, made me uncomfortable, made me question what was happening, and definitely made me emotional.

It wasn't what I expected when I picked it up, but I'm glad I read it.

4 ⭐️ from me.

And yes… I would definitely read another Erin Silva book. ❤️
Profile Image for Melissa Mejia.
563 reviews72 followers
October 8, 2026
I had the pleasure if receiving this as an e-ARC and voluntarily will be giving my honest review. Man oh man Erin!! This book has emotionally wrecked me but in a good way!! Please make sure to read your triggers!! I cried ugly tears and want to throw my phone a couple of times!! There are some heavy topics but they were beautiful written!! You have death, infertility, grief, cancer and just wanting to give up all together!! Loved the banter that Becca brought in the story absolutely love her!! This is such a phenomenal read!! Such another great read by Erin Silva!!

“When safety feels certain, Danger is already inside
A baby was supposed to be the answer. For Gabriella and Chris, it was the final, frantic attempt to bridge the distance between them. That was before the deployment forced them apart. But when Chris leaves, he leaves Gabby alone in a house that feels more like a tomb than a sanctuary. The warmth of their last days together soon curdles into a cold, creeping dread. Something is moving in the quiet corners of the rooms they intended to fill with life. As the line between her crumbling mental state and a physical threat blurs, Gabby discovers that some secrets don't stay hidden in the dark. They hunt.

The unfortunate truth always echoes true.

The safer you feel,

the more vulnerable you are.”
22 reviews2 followers
October 8, 2026
This is my second book by Erin, and after reading her debut, I already knew I loved her writing. But now? I’m officially a die-hard fan! She has definitely become one of my favorite Indie authors. ❤️

This book had me screaming “WHAAAT?!” so many times! The twists, the emotions, EVERYTHING had me hooked. I absolutely loved the friendship and banter between Gabby and Becca. Their bond felt so genuine and relatable, and I found myself connecting with so many moments throughout the story.

As a seaman’s wife, I could especially relate to what Gabby was feeling. Some of her emotions hit a little closer to home for me, making certain scenes even more personal and emotional. It’s one thing to read about a character’s struggles, but it’s another to connect with them on such a personal level. ❤️

And that ending? I cried my eyes out! 😭💔
It was such a beautiful emotional roller coaster, giving me so much more than I expected. This book made me feel ALL the emotions, and I know it’s going to stay with me for a long time. Erin has once again reminded me why I love her writing so much, and honestly, I would read anything she writes without a second thought! ❤️

Highly recommend this one, but please make sure to check the trigger warnings before diving in! 🫶🏻 This is not your usual Stalker Romance..
1 review
Review of advance copy received from Author
September 13, 2026
I finished MILDEC in less than a week, and the 3.5-page prologue had me hooked immediately. From there, Erin Silva takes you through a story that is emotional, heartbreaking, captivating, and at times completely mind-bending.

There is A LOT to process—death, infertility, cancer, grief, wanting to give up, and ultimately realizing that you have to choose to fight for yourself. There are also beautiful friendships woven throughout, moments of paranoia, and times when you're left questioning what is actually happening and what is real. Erin does an amazing job of keeping you second-guessing what you think you know.

What really struck me was how Erin blends two incredibly painful realities into one story: losing someone who fought for our country and fighting cancer. Most of us know someone whose life has been touched by one or both, which makes the story hit especially hard.

And then there are TWO alternative endings! Just when you think you're done processing everything, your mind starts racing again with all the possibilities.

Overall, MILDEC was a great read. Erin's writing flows beautifully, pulls you in, and keeps you on your toes. I genuinely looked forward to picking it back up every chance I got—and to me, that's one of the best compliments you can give a book.
Profile Image for Mandy Britt.
726 reviews68 followers
Review of advance copy
September 9, 2026
This is my first time reading Erin Silva and I am officially hooked, as MILDEC is a gripping psychological thriller packed with military suspense, stalking, and romance that completely messes with your head from start to finish.

There were moments when I genuinely felt like I was losing my own mind right along with Gabby as twist after twist upended everything I thought I knew, creating a relentless tension that keeps you constantly guessing.

The emotional depth is intense, touching on heavy themes of marriage, betrayal, and resilience while taking you on an incredible ride from start to finish.

Erin Silva delivers an absolute powerhouse of a novel where the plot is spot-on and the narrative refuses to let you put it down.

Between the shocking twists and heartbreaking moments, this book stays with you long after the final page.

If you enjoy high-stakes, mind-bending suspense that brings all the feels and leaves you struggling for words, definitely give this one a read as soon as you can.
Profile Image for shy.
13 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
October 7, 2026
This book had me hooked from the beginning
I loved the dynamic of Gabby and Chris relationship. It felt real they laughed they fought like any normal couple would.
The moment you realized what you thought was gonna happens. With a bonus of some plot twists you didn't see coming. Combined with when Gabby realizes everything thats happened it just breaks your heart. Her having to come to terms with everything. Then having to decided if she was choosing to fight or simply give up just makes you wanna hug her.
I love Becca she was my favorite her sarcasm top tier. Sometimes I felt like she over stepped, but I understood why she did it even if it annoyed me.
Steve Steve Steve you almost got me. 😅
Fuck the nosy ass mother in-law 🖕
I love this story took me only 2 days to read it thats how badly it had it hooks in me. I loved that you go through several types of emotions laughter sadness anger ect. it had all the right feelings a book should have.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Shanaé.
88 reviews4 followers
October 7, 2026
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
💧💧💧

Gabby and Chris hope starting a family will help repair their struggling marriage, but when Chris is deployed, Gabby is left to navigate the distance, loneliness, and growing unease that someone might be watching her on her own.

Gabriella’s character is strong, hilarious, and relatable. The side characters add even more depth to an already layered story. The suspenseful moments were well written, and the tension was felt. The story is medium paced and full of laughs, sadness, heartbreak, and very brief closed door spice.

This is one of the best books I’ve read all year. I do not say that lightly, considering I’ve read 229 books so far this year, including this one. This book completely blindsided me in the best way. By the end, the laughs were had and the tears were flowing.

Read If You Enjoy
* Romantic Suspense
* Military Romance
* Professional Followers
* Psychological Thrillers
* Protective MMCs
* Hidden Secrets

I received an advanced reader copy from author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Profile Image for SkySpiritHuggingYou  Smith.
49 reviews6 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
September 22, 2026
MILDEC positions itself as a tense, emotionally charged military stalker romance that prioritizes psychological unease and marital fragility over straightforward “protector” tropes. If you like atmospheric domestic thrillers with a military backdrop and don’t mind heavy emotional and psychological content, it’s one to watch when it drops. For those seeking lighter military romance or pure action, it may feel too dark.

The story centers on Gabriella (“Gabby”) and her husband Chris. A baby was meant to close the emotional distance in their marriage, but Chris’s deployment leaves Gabby alone in a house that quickly feels more like a tomb than a home. What begins as isolation and marital strain escalates into creeping dread: strange movements in the quiet rooms, the blurring line between Gabby’s deteriorating mental state and a genuine physical threat, and the realization that some secrets refuse to stay buried they hunt. Highly recommended.
4 reviews
October 8, 2026
I love it when I can find a good suspenseful psychological thriller to add to my collection and MILDEC is my newest gem! I quickly found myself fully immersed in Gabby’s struggles with balancing military life, marriage, friendships, maintaining her physical and mental well being - all while trying to keep herself safe from the dangers lurking about.

Erin Silva’s writing style is beautifully descriptive, easily drawing me deep into the nail biting experiences and heart racing moments! I was constantly questioning what I thought I knew to be true as each layer of the story was revealed.

I especially appreciate how Silva sprinkles in some special treats for us like the glossary of military acronyms, and the occasional image. These little extras added something special to the reading experience and made this such a unique and memorable read.

Thank you to the author for providing me with an ARC. This is my honest review.
Profile Image for Stacy Bishop.
226 reviews4 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
August 29, 2026
MILDEC is a psychological thriller mixed with stalking, military suspense, and romance that had me questioning what was real and what wasn’t the entire time.
There were moments when I genuinely felt like I was losing my own mind right along with Gabby. Just when I thought I had things figured out, something would happen that made me question everything all over again. The psychological aspect kept me completely invested, while the stalking and military suspense added another layer of tension to the story.
And the ending? I absolutely loved the "Pick your ending" opinion. It was such a unique way to finish a story that already had me questioning reality from beginning to end.
If you enjoy psychological thrillers that mess with your head, military suspense, stalking, and romance all wrapped into one, definitely give MILDEC a read!
Profile Image for I8mzbhvn2.
72 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
August 31, 2026
I give this book a 4⭐️ rating.

When the Author, Erin Silva told me about this book and asked if I was interested in reading it, I had no idea what really to expect. All I knew was that it was a military stalker romance. I jumped on board very quickly, and I am so glad I did! I'm not giving details about it as I don't want to ruin it for other readers, but OMG!
This book had me in so many different feels, from happy and excited for the characters to WTF and everything inbetween! I couldnt put this book down!
The plot is amazing and if you know anything about the military, you know it is on point. I never expected the twist and turns that this story took me on, but what a ride! Do yourself a favor and read this as soon as you can because this author knows how to keep you turning the page!

As Always.... HAPPY READING!
Profile Image for Brandy Poole.
27 reviews2 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
September 23, 2026
4⭐️ Voluntary ARC Read 📚

This book was a WILD ride! 😮‍💨

Chris is a military husband who gets deployed, leaving Gabriella to deal with everything at home—his leaving, work, trying to get a handle on her own health issues, AND a persistent mother-in-law who has no problem voicing her opinions. 😅

Being a former military spouse myself, I could FEEL the sadness of the separation, the waiting, and all those what ifs. That part hit a little too close to home. 💔

And then there’s Millie, Steve, Becca, and Chris, and mother-in-law… ALL of them brought something to the story and definitely kept the pages turning. 😂 I loved the banter and the witty, snarky lines throughout the book.

The heartbreak felt REAL, the emotions were there, and I honestly couldn’t put this one down.

Military romance + marriage struggles + family drama + witty banter = one heck of a page-turner!

Great read! ❤️
Profile Image for Katie.
856 reviews52 followers
September 26, 2026


I don’t even know where to start with this review because WOW. I binged this book in one day, and I honestly could not put it down. The cover doesn’t even begin to symbolize everything that is packed into these pages.

This was such a powerful, thought-provoking, emotional, and suspenseful read. It had me wishing I could read faster because I needed to know what was going to happen, while simultaneously wishing I could slow down because I never wanted it to end.

I absolutely devoured this book. It completely pulled me in, stayed with me, and gave me ALL the feelings. Books like this are exactly why I read.

This was an outstanding read, and I already know I’ll be ordering a shelf trophy the second they’re available because this book deserves a permanent spot on my shelf.

Five stars doesn’t feel like enough! Absolutely excellent.
7 reviews1 follower
Review of advance copy received from Author
October 7, 2026
Wow, this story gave me all the feels! At times, I didn’t know if I liked the main character, Gabriella, or not, but I very much connected with her. The things this poor woman was put through, I totally understand the certain times where she went a little crazy. The stalker situation was a bit interesting. I probably would’ve reacted differently to some situations, but not every character should be that way. That’s what makes it more fun! Becca, her friend, is a literal angel and I adored her. There were some editing mistakes, but it wasn’t bad enough to draw me out of the story. Plus I had an advanced copy, so I hope those will be fixed later on.

If you like military, romance and mind twisting stories with a side of betrayal and heartbreak. I highly recommend this book! I will definitely be reading more from this author. She is good at creating characters that you hate to love.
Profile Image for Heather Greer.
189 reviews14 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
August 29, 2026
What a touching story that was an emotional ride. This story touches on several sensitive topics and is hard to navigate in real life. You must check your triggers before jumping in.
Gabriella’s story of life, marriage, betrayal, mental health, health issues and having choices to make with everything thrown at her.
As I started this story, I had in my mind that the story was leaning one way and then caught off guard as it took some different turns. This story had me very emotional. It made me cry, it made me a little mad and honestly it made me truly think about I would handle situations.
I loved how the author gave alternative endings at the end of the story. It gave me the power to decide how I wanted it to end. I think that might have been the message all along!
Profile Image for Christina Blanco.
59 reviews3 followers
October 5, 2026
Review of advanced copy received from author

This book!! I have so many feelings. I’m not sure what I was expecting but this was definitely not it.

I mean that in a good way.

As I started this, I predicted a few things but the way it played out I was not prepared for. About 35% in I was second guessing everything.

The author does an excellent job preparing the reader for any trigger warnings throughout the entire book which is more than any author I’ve read to date.

There needs to be a warning for how pissed off you’ll get at a few characters (joking/ kinda lol😅)

On a serious note this is an emotional, psychological quick read with a side of sass from the fmc.

Thank you to the author for the opportunity to read and review this emotional story.


Profile Image for Lori.
282 reviews9 followers
October 8, 2026
Mildec is unlike any stalker romance I’ve read before. There were so many moments in this book that I genuinely did not know what was really happening. The way that Erin writes is top tier!
The beginning of the book kind of gave a few things away for me, but there’s so many moments that you think you know, but you don’t!
I loved the relationship between Chris & Gabs. They were playful, sarcastic, and tried to handle the things life threw at them their own way.
The star of the show for me tho was definitely Becca! I absolutely loved the way she put Brian in his place while they were at the nail salon. And her humor is the best!
Be mindful of the content warnings as this does discuss some very serious topics; infertility, cancer, grief, depression.
Profile Image for Fantasy Nelson.
Author 5 books20 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
September 13, 2026
This book was phenomenal.
I loved every part of it, but Chris. Near the end, I really wanted to strangle him.
Gabriella's version of him was fantastic, but the real version of him sucked.
Gabriella is so strong. If in her position, I would not have been able to do what she did with the woman she met. (Chris's sidepiece)
He can't say he never cheated if they were still married at the time.
But regardless, Gabriella goes through ups and downs and still finds the strength to survive.
I loved the dual endings. I read them both.
I like the one where she survives better. (And gives Seth a chance)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for A. Paige.
Author 4 books37 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
September 14, 2026
Okay… this one kept me on edge. 👀

MILDEC blends military romance, stalker vibes, psychological suspense, and plenty of twists into a story that keeps you questioning what’s real, what’s in Gabby’s mind, and—most importantly—whether she’s ever truly safe.

I loved the way the tension continued to build as the story went on. Gabby’s vulnerability and determination pulled me into her story, while that constant sense that something isn’t quite right kept me turning the pages.

Dark, unsettling, emotional, and suspenseful—this was definitely a 5-star read for me! 🖤🥀

Thank you to Erin Silva for the opportunity to read MILDEC as an ARC! ❤️
Profile Image for Katina Sites.
104 reviews10 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
October 5, 2026
I received a copy of an ARC of this book and I am reading it voluntarily.

Oh my! This is an emotionally gripping story with so many twists and turns that it makes it difficult to know what is real and what is not. There is so much going on in this book including an abundance of sensitive subjects that will make the reader feel - significantly. It made me ask myself questions I have never thought to consider with regard to certain situations/scenerios. The story was not what I expected and I am so thankful that it wasn't as it is so much better.

The plot of this book is complicated yet well thought out and I loved the alternate ending options. This was a very enjoyable read.
Profile Image for Keyshle watts.
4 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
October 7, 2026
I read this book as an ARC and I could say it was not an easy read. Not in the bad way though. There are trigger warnings, I suggest looking at them before diving in. The book took me through loop holes, made me question my own sanity since we were living inside Gabby's head. The humor hit the spot too. Becca was a real now when it came to humor and friendship. As someone who had been a military spouse and in the military myself the description of things brought back memories of living on post. I really questioned what would happen next every single chapter and I was here for it! It was worth the read.
Profile Image for Jennifer Martinez.
39 reviews5 followers
October 7, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ FANTASTIC!!! This military psychological thriller had me HOOKED!!! I was asking myself questions the entire book. About half way through I was shooketh!!! Jaw dropped!!!! Chris - kinda mad at you. Gabby- I feel you girl. Becca- thank you for not giving up, everyone needs a best friend like you! It’s hard to write about it without giving away the book it’s that good! Releases 10/8 and you need to get your hands on it! I’ve been in a reading slump and this book pulled me right out! @Erin Silva I need moreeeee!!!!
Profile Image for Sabrina.
83 reviews2 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
September 5, 2026
I swear Erin Silva just keeps on with the gifts. Military stalker is just a tease. We have suspense and romance. The best is that it's a touching story mixed with a psychological thriller. Every time I thought I was figuring this out, I was hit with another twist of betrayal and heartache. I was losing my mind right alongside the beautiful Gabby. Erin gave one heck of an amazing plot. But wait there's more. She gives you a chance to pick your ending. Yes two endings and I read both. I didn't want to miss out on anything. So buckle up and get reading.
Profile Image for Shay loves books.
396 reviews22 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
October 6, 2026
What an emotional roller coaster. I wasn’t sure what to expect from this book. I kinda figured it wld be a little emotional, but it was so much more than I had anticipated. It was such a great book. I highly recommend, but if you have triggers check them.

This was my first book by this author but it will definitely not be my last. I loved her writing and the story she brought to us. You actually feel all the emotions as if you’re living the story with them.
Profile Image for Hannah Just Started Reading.
21 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
October 7, 2026
Thank you to the author for the advanced copy!

I went into this read thinking it was just a military stalker book. But I was so wrong! This book was emotional and had me thinking “wait what?”

I loved Gabby and Chris’s relationship. It felt real. Which made the emotions in this book so strong!

This book touches on very hard and emotional topics and the author did a great job writing it!

I look forward to more of her work.
23 reviews3 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
September 10, 2026
I got to arc read this book and I loved it!
It was a sad story once the realization set in on what all was happening and understanding the whole picture.
I couldn’t imagine going through all of that at once!
This story is very well done, diving into hard topics and emotional ones as well!
Thank you for letting me read your book!
40 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
October 3, 2026
Not your typical stalker romance! This story had me crying. It had me laughing. It had questioning everything. It kept me in the edge of my seat! I love Gabby’s story. It’s a little spicy but not all the way an open door romance. I thought the spice truly added to the story. It’s such a great book!
24 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
September 9, 2026
great book! it is so easy to dive right in . the story moves along at a good, steady pace. i had moments of confusion in the neginning but by three quarters of the book, everything made perfect sense.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews