⭐⭐⭐⭐ Was I hooked by that book? Yes. A gripping thriller between a psychotic stalker and the writer that refused to take it lying down.

He showed up at Arden Bowie’s debut author appearance with a copy of her novel and an eager smile. He showered her with compliments and got her autograph. Then he came to her next event. And the one after that. Dustin was just an aspiring writer who wanted advice, Arden reassured herself. But after giving in to one of his incessant invitations and chatting with him over coffee, she discovered that ignoring her inner alarm bell had been a terrible mistake… An introvert at heart, Arden had long craved solitude―but now, after a harrowing assault, she finds herself hiding behind locked doors and startling at every sound. And her relief at his imprisonment is tempered by anxiety when Dustin’s wealthy mother helps to get him a paltry five-year sentence at a psychiatric facility. Arden decides to write a new story for herself, moving to a tiny Oregon town and befriending Gideon, an ex-LAPD detective. But while she learns to thrive, Dustin remains his delusional, twisted self, as fixated as ever and now seething with anger. He still believes Arden’s purpose on earth is to serve and please him. And his job is to protect her. But who will protect her from him?

MY THOUGHTS

Throughout, there was this interesting juxtaposition between Arden’s day-to-day life and Dustin’s obsessive behaviour. And as the story progressed, Arden’s life became steadier and calmer, whereas Dustin’s slowly continued to unravel. His views and actions towards her were traumatic and hard to read, especially the attack at the beginning, but it was necessary to set up the rest of the story.

It was uplifting to see Arden get back on her feet and reclaim her peace. All the “nesting” in her new home was heartwarming and entertaining. It came with new and interesting friends that enriched the story and Arden’s environment. Arden and Gideon quietly slipped into an intense and mutually satisfying relationship. I really liked Gideon. He was dedicated and just got things done without fanfare. Arden was extremely fortunate to have such an extensive support system that looked out for her.

In some aspects, there was a predictable pattern to the plot, but the specifics of the story were thrilling and engaging, nonetheless. Waiting for the final showdown was excruciating. The ending wasn’t drawn out. It was tense and fast-moving and just right.

I can recommend this book if you like romantic suspense with well-developed characters. See what other readers are saying on Goodreads.

Thank you to Netgalley for providing me with a copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Were you hooked by that book? Let me know in the comments below.

Genre: Romance, Suspense
Published: May 26, 2026
Sensuality Rating: Warm