H.D. Carlton's "Haunting Adeline" has become a dark romance phenomenon that has broken BookTok and left readers everywhere questioning their taste in fictional men. This psychological thriller romance, the first book in the Cat and Mouse Duet, has garnered millions of views across social media platforms.
If you've been wondering what all the hype is about, whether you can read Haunting Adeline for free, or just want to know if this book lives up to its viral reputation, you've come to the right place.
Plot Summary (No Spoilers!)
Haunting Adeline follows Adeline Reilly, a reclusive romance author who inherits her great-grandmother's gothic mansion, Parsons Manor. As she settles into her new home and begins researching her family's dark history through old diary entries, Adeline discovers she's being stalked by a mysterious man who calls himself her "Shadow."
Enter Zade Meadows—a morally gray vigilante who operates in the shadows, targeting those who prey on the innocent. His obsession with Adeline begins as surveillance but quickly evolves into something much more dangerous and consuming. As their cat-and-mouse game intensifies, the lines between predator and prey blur.
Main Characters in Haunting Adeline
Adeline Reilly (FMC)
A reclusive romance author who inherits her great-grandmother's mansion. Adeline is intelligent, strong-willed, and initially resistant to Zade's advances.
Zade Meadows (MMC)
The morally gray anti-hero who becomes obsessed with Adeline. Zade operates as a vigilante, hunting down criminals who prey on children and vulnerable individuals. He's calculating, dangerous, and utterly devoted to Adeline—whether she wants him to be or not. His character embodies the "morally black" book boyfriend that's become a BookTok favorite.
Supporting Characters:
- Daya - Adeline's best friend who provides reality checks
- Max - Zade's partner in his vigilante activities
- The Society - The criminal organization that serves as the book's antagonist
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Complete List of Spicy Chapters
The spice level is definitely high, but it's the psychological intensity that really sets this book apart from other dark romance novels. Carlton doesn't just write steamy scenes—she crafts psychological experiences that get under your skin. This dark romance is definitely not for readers looking for sweet, traditional romance.
Chapter 8
Marks the early escalation between protagonist Adeline and her stalker Zade, representing the first significant romantic tension.
"You've left a mess on my hand, Addie. It'd be rude not to clean it up."
Chapter 16
Stands out as particularly notorious among readers, frequently referenced as "the gun scene" across BookTok discussions and book blogs.
"Such a good girl," he says, pulling the dripping gun out, a trail of saliva following until it snaps.
Chapters 21-23
Form a sequence that readers describe as building romantic intensity, with multiple fan discussions noting this as a turning point in the relationship dynamic.
"You want to know the best part?" he asks quietly. "I was going to tuck you into bed and leave you alone tonight. But you seem to forget that just because I am wholly yours, little mouse, I am not a nice man."
Chapters 29-30
Contain what readers consistently call "the House of Mirrors" sequence, described in fan discussions as their first significant intimate encounter. These chapters are frequently mentioned together in reader guides.
"Run," he growls. My lungs constrict at the guttural command. "If I catch you, I fuck you."
Chapters 38-41
Represent the final escalation near the book's climax, with readers noting these scenes tie into the story's resolution and setup for the sequel "Hunting Adeline."
"I will always possess you, little mouse. So, know that you have all of my devotion to keeping you."
Haunting Adeline Reviews & Ratings
Goodreads Rating
4.2/5 stars
Based on over 200,000 ratings
Amazon Rating
4.4/5 stars
Thousands of reviews
Common Reader Reactions:
"This book had me questioning my sanity and my taste in men, but I couldn't put it down."
"H.D. Carlton created a psychological masterpiece that's both disturbing and addictive."
"Not for the faint of heart, but absolutely brilliant dark romance."
Where to Read Haunting Adeline: Free Download & Legal Sources
Looking for a Haunting Adeline free download or PDF? While many readers search for free copies online, the best way to legally read this dark romance is through these official sources:
Legal Reading Options:
- Amazon Kindle - Available for purchase as an ebook
- Kindle Unlimited - Free with subscription (often available)
- Amazon Audible - Audiobook version with professional narration
- Local Libraries - Many libraries now offer digital lending through apps like Libby or OverDrive
- Book Subscription Services - Services like Scribd occasionally feature the title
💡 Always support authors by purchasing through legitimate channels.
Related Books: Cat and Mouse Duet & Similar Reads
Hunting Adeline (Book 2)
The sequel to Haunting Adeline continues Adeline and Zade's story, diving deeper into the criminal underworld and their complex relationship. It's even darker than the first book and provides a resolution to the overarching plot.
If You Loved Haunting Adeline, Try:
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Frequently Asked Questions
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