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His To Unravel: Book I of the His & Hers Duet
To her, he is temptation... But to him, she is inevitability.
OLIVIA Bennett has always lived by the rules—disciplined, responsible, and determined to carve out a life of her own. A scholarship student at prestigious Halford University, she knows what’s at stake and refuses to slip.
But beneath the perfect grades and relentless ambition lies a deeper to be seen not for what she can do, but for who she is. She’s yearning for someone to notice the woman behind the composure, the one who longs to surrender without shattering.
Then she meets Nathaniel.
He’s magnetic. Watchful. A little too knowing.
And the way he looks at her—like she’s already his—is as terrifying as it is intoxicating.
***
NATHANIEL Caldwell doesn’t believe in fate. Everything he does is calculated and precise—right from the moment he returned to Halford, to the moment he made sure Olivia would see him.
On the outside, he’s the embodiment of old money privilege. The heir to a billionaire legacy sharpened by power and expectation, he’s outwardly devastatingly handsome, effortlessly charming, with a mind sharp as a blade. But that polish masks a man hollowed by grief, drifting through a life that stopped making sense a long time ago.
Until he found Olivia.
He’s studied her. Planned for her. Reshaped his world to pull her into it.
Because he doesn’t just want her attention. He craves for every last part of her—whether she offers it freely or not.
OLIVIA Bennett has always lived by the rules—disciplined, responsible, and determined to carve out a life of her own. A scholarship student at prestigious Halford University, she knows what’s at stake and refuses to slip.
But beneath the perfect grades and relentless ambition lies a deeper to be seen not for what she can do, but for who she is. She’s yearning for someone to notice the woman behind the composure, the one who longs to surrender without shattering.
Then she meets Nathaniel.
He’s magnetic. Watchful. A little too knowing.
And the way he looks at her—like she’s already his—is as terrifying as it is intoxicating.
***
NATHANIEL Caldwell doesn’t believe in fate. Everything he does is calculated and precise—right from the moment he returned to Halford, to the moment he made sure Olivia would see him.
On the outside, he’s the embodiment of old money privilege. The heir to a billionaire legacy sharpened by power and expectation, he’s outwardly devastatingly handsome, effortlessly charming, with a mind sharp as a blade. But that polish masks a man hollowed by grief, drifting through a life that stopped making sense a long time ago.
Until he found Olivia.
He’s studied her. Planned for her. Reshaped his world to pull her into it.
Because he doesn’t just want her attention. He craves for every last part of her—whether she offers it freely or not.
340 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 5, 2025
46 people are currently reading
513 people want to read
About the author
Athena Hawthorne
2 books72 followersAthena Hawthorne is a contemporary romance author whose stories blend lyrical prose with emotional intensity. In her world, love is consuming, characters ache beautifully, and devotion runs deep.
She writes about obsessive heroes who fall hard—and often first—for the women who undo them. Her heroines are complex, self-possessed, and quietly strong—the kind of women who bring powerful men to their knees—and keep them there.
Athena aims to craft love stories that linger long after the last page, where sensuality meets emotional resonance and every happily ever after is hard-won.
Athena writes under a pen name and keeps her identity tucked quietly away—after all, isn’t every love story better with a little mystery?
She writes about obsessive heroes who fall hard—and often first—for the women who undo them. Her heroines are complex, self-possessed, and quietly strong—the kind of women who bring powerful men to their knees—and keep them there.
Athena aims to craft love stories that linger long after the last page, where sensuality meets emotional resonance and every happily ever after is hard-won.
Athena writes under a pen name and keeps her identity tucked quietly away—after all, isn’t every love story better with a little mystery?
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 231 reviews
August 21, 2025
OH. MY. GOD. 😱 You cannot end a book like that! That last line had me flipping frantically for the next page, only to be met with “See you in Book Two.” NOT FAIR. Athena, how dare you leave me absolutely feral like this?!
From the very first page, His To Unravel gripped me completely. This wasn’t just a college romance—it was a beautifully raw journey of love, identity, grief, and healing. 💔💫 Olivia and Nathaniel’s story felt like it carved a space in my chest, and I still can’t stop thinking about them.
Olivia Bennett was such a relatable heroine. 🎓 As the eldest daughter carrying impossible expectations, her struggles with body image, perfectionism, and the weight of responsibility resonated deeply with me. Watching her learn to step out from under that pressure, daring to embrace her own desires and let herself be truly seen, was so moving. I rooted for her every step of the way. 🌸
And Nathaniel Caldwell? BOOK. BOYFRIEND. GOALS. 💕 He was romantic, tender, a little unhinged (in the BEST way), and so unbelievably captivating. His grief added so many layers to his character—behind all that control and precision was a man who just needed someone to anchor him. The way he fell so hard for Olivia, how much he needed her, had me swooning and blushing in equal measure. 🥵🔥
Their connection was magnetic. The dual POV was perfection—it let me see both sides of their yearning, their insecurities, and the way they healed each other piece by piece. The spice? Sensual, emotional, and just… wow. 🌹 Every scene was electric yet tender, passionate but never without heart. 10/10.
But ohhh, let’s talk about the people who made me want to scream into a pillow. Landon 😤—always pushing where he didn’t belong. And Olivia’s mom? COLD. The kind of suffocating, overbearing parent that makes you ache for the heroine to finally be free. They made me love Olivia even more because she deserved better—so much better.
Plot-wise, I adored how Athena wove the themes of control, fate, and inevitability into the story. Nathaniel believed everything in his life had to be planned, precise… until Olivia. And Olivia, who thought she had to live by the rules to survive, found herself drawn to someone who shattered all of them. ✨ That contrast made their love story so intense, so unforgettable.
And then THAT ENDING. 😭 Athena, how could you?! My heart is in pieces, and I’m counting down the days until Book Two.
💖 Tropes you’ll find in here:
✨ College Romance
✨ Dual POV
✨ Sunshine x Grumpy (but twisted in the best way)
✨ Obsessive MMC (just the right amount 👀)
✨ Found Family vs. Toxic Family Dynamics
✨ Healing & Self-Discovery
✨ High Heat, High Heart 🔥💘
Athena Hawthorne’s debut was stunning—beautifully written, emotionally sharp, and impossible to put down. This story didn’t just give me a romance, it gave me characters who felt achingly real and a love story that will linger with me for a long time.
Thank you so much to Athena Hawthorne and Beyond the Books 📚💌 for the ARC—I feel so grateful to have read this early. If you love romance that’s messy, heartfelt, and utterly magnetic, His To Unravel is for you. ❤️
From the very first page, His To Unravel gripped me completely. This wasn’t just a college romance—it was a beautifully raw journey of love, identity, grief, and healing. 💔💫 Olivia and Nathaniel’s story felt like it carved a space in my chest, and I still can’t stop thinking about them.
Olivia Bennett was such a relatable heroine. 🎓 As the eldest daughter carrying impossible expectations, her struggles with body image, perfectionism, and the weight of responsibility resonated deeply with me. Watching her learn to step out from under that pressure, daring to embrace her own desires and let herself be truly seen, was so moving. I rooted for her every step of the way. 🌸
And Nathaniel Caldwell? BOOK. BOYFRIEND. GOALS. 💕 He was romantic, tender, a little unhinged (in the BEST way), and so unbelievably captivating. His grief added so many layers to his character—behind all that control and precision was a man who just needed someone to anchor him. The way he fell so hard for Olivia, how much he needed her, had me swooning and blushing in equal measure. 🥵🔥
Their connection was magnetic. The dual POV was perfection—it let me see both sides of their yearning, their insecurities, and the way they healed each other piece by piece. The spice? Sensual, emotional, and just… wow. 🌹 Every scene was electric yet tender, passionate but never without heart. 10/10.
But ohhh, let’s talk about the people who made me want to scream into a pillow. Landon 😤—always pushing where he didn’t belong. And Olivia’s mom? COLD. The kind of suffocating, overbearing parent that makes you ache for the heroine to finally be free. They made me love Olivia even more because she deserved better—so much better.
Plot-wise, I adored how Athena wove the themes of control, fate, and inevitability into the story. Nathaniel believed everything in his life had to be planned, precise… until Olivia. And Olivia, who thought she had to live by the rules to survive, found herself drawn to someone who shattered all of them. ✨ That contrast made their love story so intense, so unforgettable.
And then THAT ENDING. 😭 Athena, how could you?! My heart is in pieces, and I’m counting down the days until Book Two.
💖 Tropes you’ll find in here:
✨ College Romance
✨ Dual POV
✨ Sunshine x Grumpy (but twisted in the best way)
✨ Obsessive MMC (just the right amount 👀)
✨ Found Family vs. Toxic Family Dynamics
✨ Healing & Self-Discovery
✨ High Heat, High Heart 🔥💘
Athena Hawthorne’s debut was stunning—beautifully written, emotionally sharp, and impossible to put down. This story didn’t just give me a romance, it gave me characters who felt achingly real and a love story that will linger with me for a long time.
Thank you so much to Athena Hawthorne and Beyond the Books 📚💌 for the ARC—I feel so grateful to have read this early. If you love romance that’s messy, heartfelt, and utterly magnetic, His To Unravel is for you. ❤️
August 21, 2025
5⭐️3🌶
His to Unravel
By: @Athena Hawthorne
I received this book as an ARC, and I am so glad I did. His to Unravel has become one of my top favorite reads of 2025. Nathaniel is a grumpy, Stalking, obsessive, and overprotective MMC who forces a meeting with Olivia. The lengths he goes to ensure that Olivia becomes his gives nothing but red flags, and I am here for it! Favorite quote: " I've never belonged to anyone the way I belong to you,"
His to Unravel
By: @Athena Hawthorne
I received this book as an ARC, and I am so glad I did. His to Unravel has become one of my top favorite reads of 2025. Nathaniel is a grumpy, Stalking, obsessive, and overprotective MMC who forces a meeting with Olivia. The lengths he goes to ensure that Olivia becomes his gives nothing but red flags, and I am here for it! Favorite quote: " I've never belonged to anyone the way I belong to you,"
August 22, 2025
ARC REVIEW: Releases 9/5/2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/🌶️🌶️
I still am baffled this is a DEBUT…because the writing style, the plot twists, the dark elements screams this isn’t her first rodeo. @athenahawthorne.writes you’re definitely going places!
This was a very compelling story about acceptance and being chosen. Which is what we all want out of life right? This is a college romance with darker themes.
Nathaniel battles with so many demons and he doesn’t know how to calm them. Olivia is desperate to be prioritized and seen. Just maybe not in the way Nathanial plans…our MMC is a wee bit unhinged, borderline toxic, but in the best way so it’s fine! This story had me hooked from the first 3 pages and I was dying to figure out why Nathaniel thinks the way he does…and that plot twist!!! Oh my heart aches for him. Olivia is soft spoken but very strong and though she tries to keep her walls up, she soon realizes he needs her just as desperately as she needs him.
The emotions behind these characters are so raw and real, you can’t help but feel it with them. The author did a fantastic job of just giving you enough information of Nathaniel’s end goal and logic that it made perfect sense. And the way Olivia knows that what he’s doing isn’t “normal”, she just gets him. She has the capability to peel back his layers without making him feel less than. Don’t get me wrong, Nathaniel isn’t weak and doesn’t need saving…MAJOR touch her and 💀 vibes. It’s really a perfect balance.
I really hope book 2 is coming out soon because that cliffhanger is going to keep me up at night!
Tropes:
🖤 Stalker romance
🖤 He falls first
🖤 Protective black cat MMC
🖤 Cinnamon roll FMC
🖤 Grumpy/sunshine
🖤 Billionaire
🖤 Calculated Proximity
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/🌶️🌶️
I still am baffled this is a DEBUT…because the writing style, the plot twists, the dark elements screams this isn’t her first rodeo. @athenahawthorne.writes you’re definitely going places!
This was a very compelling story about acceptance and being chosen. Which is what we all want out of life right? This is a college romance with darker themes.
Nathaniel battles with so many demons and he doesn’t know how to calm them. Olivia is desperate to be prioritized and seen. Just maybe not in the way Nathanial plans…our MMC is a wee bit unhinged, borderline toxic, but in the best way so it’s fine! This story had me hooked from the first 3 pages and I was dying to figure out why Nathaniel thinks the way he does…and that plot twist!!! Oh my heart aches for him. Olivia is soft spoken but very strong and though she tries to keep her walls up, she soon realizes he needs her just as desperately as she needs him.
The emotions behind these characters are so raw and real, you can’t help but feel it with them. The author did a fantastic job of just giving you enough information of Nathaniel’s end goal and logic that it made perfect sense. And the way Olivia knows that what he’s doing isn’t “normal”, she just gets him. She has the capability to peel back his layers without making him feel less than. Don’t get me wrong, Nathaniel isn’t weak and doesn’t need saving…MAJOR touch her and 💀 vibes. It’s really a perfect balance.
I really hope book 2 is coming out soon because that cliffhanger is going to keep me up at night!
Tropes:
🖤 Stalker romance
🖤 He falls first
🖤 Protective black cat MMC
🖤 Cinnamon roll FMC
🖤 Grumpy/sunshine
🖤 Billionaire
🖤 Calculated Proximity
August 29, 2025
I am completely and utter in love and obsessed with this book. I am always down for a hot billionaire “he falls first” romance. It seems very cute at first, Olivia (the scholarship student) gets partnered with the rich kid for a project, yet he makes her feel seen in ways no one ever has. Sounds like a great meet cute, a fun story. He’s dedicated to her, a care taker, trying to help her take the massive weight off her shoulders. But his love turns into borderline obsessive and when you read his Point of view chapters, it changes everything. Both characters have severe trauma, although Nathaniel’s is not as prominent until much later in the book. He’s manipulative, but you’ll find that it’s not because of an anti-social disorder or sociopathy that I was expecting, it’s much deeper than that. While Olivia has had to take care of her family her entire life, a remarkable weight on her shoulders since she was young, and while she doesn’t realise it, she’s slowly cracking under the pressure of it all. Although it may not seem that way at first, this story is of two broken souls who find each other, although not in the most conventional of ways. Despite all the red flags, I love Nathaniel, he’s possessive (and I’m all for that), and he takes care of her. She’s independent but he breaks down her walls and becomes the rock she can lean on. Although it’s less and that and more “he more of less forcefully takes her problems away. Still very very cute. The plot was interesting and k didn’t expect some twists near the end. I was pretty shook. Loved this and I need that next book STAT, PLEASEEEE. 5/5
August 24, 2025
(arc review)
rating: 5/5
Spice: 3/5
OMG!! When I say this book takes you on an adventure, it truly does. His To Unravel is an amazing dark contemporary romance by Athena Hawthorne. I would like to thank Athena Hawthorne and beyond the book pr for giving me an ARC.
Olivia has worked pushed herself to work hard and is determined to create her own path in life. Then she meets Nathaniel, who changes her world and is there for her when no one else is. Nathaniel is very particular and plans everything to the last detail; Everyone see him as old money but is there more to him than meets the eye. Everything changes for him when he sees Olivia for the first time and learned and planned everything so they could meet.
Nathaniel was my favourite character in the book, for some one who has such precision and panning for his life, you could see that deep down that there was something there going on. Olivia character can be showing struggles to with carrying all the weight of expectations, scholarships and trying to keep everyone happy. You could see these parts of these charters unravel throughout the book. Both characters’ struggles and growth were beautifully woven into the story.
The plot had me hooked from chapter one. Watching Nathaniel fall in love with Olivia and truly listen to her ,even down to the smallest passing comments was completely swoon worthy. I couldn’t put this book down. I loved seeing how the characters came together, and the story never plateaued. Instead, it left room for meaningful character growth and gave me the chance to understand them on a much deeper level. The pacing was perfect, and the way the plot and character development worked hand in hand was beautifully done.
Overall, His To Unravel was amazing and highly recommend for people to read, before hand please check the trigger warnings as there is some dark content. Happy reading.
rating: 5/5
Spice: 3/5
OMG!! When I say this book takes you on an adventure, it truly does. His To Unravel is an amazing dark contemporary romance by Athena Hawthorne. I would like to thank Athena Hawthorne and beyond the book pr for giving me an ARC.
Olivia has worked pushed herself to work hard and is determined to create her own path in life. Then she meets Nathaniel, who changes her world and is there for her when no one else is. Nathaniel is very particular and plans everything to the last detail; Everyone see him as old money but is there more to him than meets the eye. Everything changes for him when he sees Olivia for the first time and learned and planned everything so they could meet.
Nathaniel was my favourite character in the book, for some one who has such precision and panning for his life, you could see that deep down that there was something there going on. Olivia character can be showing struggles to with carrying all the weight of expectations, scholarships and trying to keep everyone happy. You could see these parts of these charters unravel throughout the book. Both characters’ struggles and growth were beautifully woven into the story.
The plot had me hooked from chapter one. Watching Nathaniel fall in love with Olivia and truly listen to her ,even down to the smallest passing comments was completely swoon worthy. I couldn’t put this book down. I loved seeing how the characters came together, and the story never plateaued. Instead, it left room for meaningful character growth and gave me the chance to understand them on a much deeper level. The pacing was perfect, and the way the plot and character development worked hand in hand was beautifully done.
Overall, His To Unravel was amazing and highly recommend for people to read, before hand please check the trigger warnings as there is some dark content. Happy reading.
July 28, 2025
was lucky enough to be a beta reader for his to unravel and i’m still not over it. such a strong debut—beautifully written and emotionally sharp. i loved olivia, related to her so hard, especially around body image and all the pressure she’s under. and nathaniel?? literal book boyfriend goals: romantic, tender, just the right amount of unhinged. and the spice scenes?? 10/10. had me blushing harddddd. but that ending though…left me absolutely feral. I NEED BOOK 2 NOW PLEASEEEEE!
August 22, 2025
What a beautifully written darc academia romance! Absolutely captivating and hard to put down - the tension Athena Hawthorne created is insane and keeps you on your toes throughout the whole entire read. It ends with a bang, leaving me excited af for book number 2.
4.5⭐️
"She has yet to understand that I’m not a chapter in her story— I am the binding that holds it all together."
I absolutely loved both our MCs Nathaniel and Olivia. While Nathaniel starts off as very detached and controlling, you get to know him better during the book, being able to see his insecurities and the reasons for his behavior.
"What is obsession if not an amplification of love?"
"The way she leans into me now, seeks me out— it’s more than desire. It’s proof that control, executed correctly, can be indistinguishable from devotion."
Olivia is strong and soft in all the right places, with the typical insecurities of a university student on a scholarship who spends a little too much time studying. She's just as tough to crack and I absolutely adored diving deeper into her life and feelings as well. The friends she found at school add perfectly into that mix (Landon however idk man).
"Nathaniel’s intensity isn’t a deterrent— it’s a lure. It draws me in, makes me feel alive in ways that cautious friendships and careful plans never could."
Starting the book with Nathaniels POV really did it for me and I was invested in their lives from the very first chapter, going from being annoyed with Nathaniel and wanting Olivia to run to absolutely adoring him. Something Hawthorne makes unbelievably easy to feel with how she intwines emotions in her writing and let's the reader feel Nathaniels detached sense of the world which then slowly opens up and let's in emotions.
"She has, somehow, become someone I want beside me—not just to watch, but to unravel completely."
I'm grateful to have received and ARC of this book and hope it's on everybody's radar very soon!
4.5⭐️
"She has yet to understand that I’m not a chapter in her story— I am the binding that holds it all together."
I absolutely loved both our MCs Nathaniel and Olivia. While Nathaniel starts off as very detached and controlling, you get to know him better during the book, being able to see his insecurities and the reasons for his behavior.
"What is obsession if not an amplification of love?"
"The way she leans into me now, seeks me out— it’s more than desire. It’s proof that control, executed correctly, can be indistinguishable from devotion."
Olivia is strong and soft in all the right places, with the typical insecurities of a university student on a scholarship who spends a little too much time studying. She's just as tough to crack and I absolutely adored diving deeper into her life and feelings as well. The friends she found at school add perfectly into that mix (Landon however idk man).
"Nathaniel’s intensity isn’t a deterrent— it’s a lure. It draws me in, makes me feel alive in ways that cautious friendships and careful plans never could."
Starting the book with Nathaniels POV really did it for me and I was invested in their lives from the very first chapter, going from being annoyed with Nathaniel and wanting Olivia to run to absolutely adoring him. Something Hawthorne makes unbelievably easy to feel with how she intwines emotions in her writing and let's the reader feel Nathaniels detached sense of the world which then slowly opens up and let's in emotions.
"She has, somehow, become someone I want beside me—not just to watch, but to unravel completely."
I'm grateful to have received and ARC of this book and hope it's on everybody's radar very soon!
August 24, 2025
Started this yesterday night, literally fell asleep reading it, and then continued to read it again as soon as I woke up. I just couldn't put this book down. Not only that, this is Athena's debut novel? It is fantastic! Written beautifully and it flowed so well. I was absolutely engrossed.
His To Unravel has two POVs—being Nathaniel (Nate) and Olivia. Nate is infatuated with Olivia and has this plan to make her his, by any means possible. He is very attentive, possessive, obsessive, and calculated. Whereas Olivia is very school-oriented and determined to make her life her own, that is until Nate comes along and breaks down the barriers she has built to protect herself.
Also, kind of need book two immediately after the ending the author gave us because what happens next?! There are still secrets that need to be revealed and discussions to be had.
Now as for tropes:
- Grumpy x Sunshine
- Billionaire Romance
- He falls first
- She's mine.
- Stalker
Thank you to the author Athena Hawthorne for the opportunity to read and review this Arc, I really enjoyed reading this!
His To Unravel has two POVs—being Nathaniel (Nate) and Olivia. Nate is infatuated with Olivia and has this plan to make her his, by any means possible. He is very attentive, possessive, obsessive, and calculated. Whereas Olivia is very school-oriented and determined to make her life her own, that is until Nate comes along and breaks down the barriers she has built to protect herself.
Also, kind of need book two immediately after the ending the author gave us because what happens next?! There are still secrets that need to be revealed and discussions to be had.
Now as for tropes:
- Grumpy x Sunshine
- Billionaire Romance
- He falls first
- She's mine.
- Stalker
Thank you to the author Athena Hawthorne for the opportunity to read and review this Arc, I really enjoyed reading this!
August 20, 2025
This was such a good read!
I absolutely loved how Nathaniel carefully orchestrated his plan to win Olivia—my man was truly finished for her. And Olivia’s journey of realizing her love for him, even while fighting the attraction, was so well done.
As a first daughter in an African household, I found Olivia’s character incredibly relatable. I also appreciated how the supporting characters complemented the main couple without ever overshadowing them.
Athena’s exploration of grief, control, identity, and social strata was handled with such care and nuance. The struggles both Nathaniel and Olivia faced felt raw, layered, and beautifully depicted.
The story ends on a cliffhanger, and now I can’t wait for the concluding part!
This is a solid 4-star read, and I highly recommend it. Many thanks to the author for the ARC!
I absolutely loved how Nathaniel carefully orchestrated his plan to win Olivia—my man was truly finished for her. And Olivia’s journey of realizing her love for him, even while fighting the attraction, was so well done.
As a first daughter in an African household, I found Olivia’s character incredibly relatable. I also appreciated how the supporting characters complemented the main couple without ever overshadowing them.
Athena’s exploration of grief, control, identity, and social strata was handled with such care and nuance. The struggles both Nathaniel and Olivia faced felt raw, layered, and beautifully depicted.
The story ends on a cliffhanger, and now I can’t wait for the concluding part!
This is a solid 4-star read, and I highly recommend it. Many thanks to the author for the ARC!
August 22, 2025
Wow
This book had a lot of character building
Mostly Nathaniel
I’ll be honest, at first just how his character was written I was hesitant. I’ve read plenty of books with obsessive MC. But something about Nathaniel was slightly uneasy. But once I started actually getting to know his story, my heart started breaking for him and making everything about him make sense.
I love Olivia. I relate to her a lot. Being the oldest sibling and having that pressure on you is hard. And she’s blossomed so much. But she has a secret she hasn’t fully told the truth about to Nathaniel and I’m dying to know how that turns out!!!
This book ends in a cliffhanger! And I’m ready for the 2nd book!!!!
This book had a lot of character building
Mostly Nathaniel
I’ll be honest, at first just how his character was written I was hesitant. I’ve read plenty of books with obsessive MC. But something about Nathaniel was slightly uneasy. But once I started actually getting to know his story, my heart started breaking for him and making everything about him make sense.
I love Olivia. I relate to her a lot. Being the oldest sibling and having that pressure on you is hard. And she’s blossomed so much. But she has a secret she hasn’t fully told the truth about to Nathaniel and I’m dying to know how that turns out!!!
This book ends in a cliffhanger! And I’m ready for the 2nd book!!!!
August 24, 2025
Oh. My. God.
Ms. Hawthorne. You have truly set the bar high. I am shook! And absolutely need to read the next book… when is the release date???
MMC is a walking red flag, bordering on obsessive, he inserts himself into our FMC’s life, initially without her knowledge. He HAS to have her, and will stop at nothing to achieve that goal- even if it means secret surveillance…
FMC- a brilliant, driven, and slightly gaslit (by her own family) woman- Olivia is everything to Nathaniel. Despite her initial reservations at his previously mentioned red flags, she embarks in a journey into a turbo speed relationship. She falls hard and fast, and in the process learns that she is allowed to do things for herself, she is allowed to feel as worshipped as she feels with Nate. Learning about a dark side of him only solidifies their love… this book will have you questioning your own morality, it will leave you wishing that someone would look at you the way Nate looks at Olivia. And then it will leave you completely hung out to dry on one of the HUGEST cliffhangers I think I have ever read.
Tropes:
College Romance
Wealthy mmc falls for the scholarship FMC
Look at her and 💀
Family secrets threaten everything
Ms. Hawthorne. You have truly set the bar high. I am shook! And absolutely need to read the next book… when is the release date???
MMC is a walking red flag, bordering on obsessive, he inserts himself into our FMC’s life, initially without her knowledge. He HAS to have her, and will stop at nothing to achieve that goal- even if it means secret surveillance…
FMC- a brilliant, driven, and slightly gaslit (by her own family) woman- Olivia is everything to Nathaniel. Despite her initial reservations at his previously mentioned red flags, she embarks in a journey into a turbo speed relationship. She falls hard and fast, and in the process learns that she is allowed to do things for herself, she is allowed to feel as worshipped as she feels with Nate. Learning about a dark side of him only solidifies their love… this book will have you questioning your own morality, it will leave you wishing that someone would look at you the way Nate looks at Olivia. And then it will leave you completely hung out to dry on one of the HUGEST cliffhangers I think I have ever read.
Tropes:
College Romance
Wealthy mmc falls for the scholarship FMC
Look at her and 💀
Family secrets threaten everything
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 7, 2025
4.5 stars ⭐️
i love me a man obsessed FRRR
i love me a man obsessed FRRR
September 5, 2025
I want to start my thanking Athena Hawthorne for allowing to be one of the arc readers for this book.
5⭐️3.5🌶️
The book gives off stalker vibes but in a tentative romantic setting. Not so much dark romance. Nathaniel is so observant and captivating - his character is almost like playing chest very strategic and he was borderline stalker. Olivia was so focused of school and her future she didn’t plan on him intruding her every thought. She needed him but did know it. Olivia and Nathaniel story will leave you on cliffhanger but a good one. That last chapter OMG 🥵 - I cannot wait for book 2 & hope to be chosen as arc reader again.
5⭐️3.5🌶️
The book gives off stalker vibes but in a tentative romantic setting. Not so much dark romance. Nathaniel is so observant and captivating - his character is almost like playing chest very strategic and he was borderline stalker. Olivia was so focused of school and her future she didn’t plan on him intruding her every thought. She needed him but did know it. Olivia and Nathaniel story will leave you on cliffhanger but a good one. That last chapter OMG 🥵 - I cannot wait for book 2 & hope to be chosen as arc reader again.
August 23, 2025
5⭐️ spicy spicy spicy. Great debut novel. It’s book 1 in a 2 book series. Mmc is extremely obsessive, a walking red flag 🚩 but don’t we love them 😉. FMC gets lured into his traps. I really enjoyed reading about Nathaniel and Olivia and I can’t wait to read the second book.
August 25, 2025
ARC review
He is OBSESSED with her. I’m obsessed to know where this story is going to go after that cliffhanger.
He falls first ✅
Spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️✅
The character development that Nathaniel went through was so interesting. At first I wasn’t sure if I was going to like his character but as the story progresses you learn so much about him and his past and how he was held to such high standards growing up. The pieces started to fall into place.
Olivia was very relatable from the start, never someone’s first pick, driven, and a people pleaser especially for her family. I enjoyed how she gets the support she needs but she’s still driven and stand up for what she believes. But I’m interested to see how her character develops in the next book especially when it comes to her job opportunities and relationship.
Thank you Athena for the opportunity to read this book before the release date.
He is OBSESSED with her. I’m obsessed to know where this story is going to go after that cliffhanger.
He falls first ✅
Spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️✅
The character development that Nathaniel went through was so interesting. At first I wasn’t sure if I was going to like his character but as the story progresses you learn so much about him and his past and how he was held to such high standards growing up. The pieces started to fall into place.
Olivia was very relatable from the start, never someone’s first pick, driven, and a people pleaser especially for her family. I enjoyed how she gets the support she needs but she’s still driven and stand up for what she believes. But I’m interested to see how her character develops in the next book especially when it comes to her job opportunities and relationship.
Thank you Athena for the opportunity to read this book before the release date.
August 24, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Book 1 in the His & Hers Duet
Releases September 5
Nathaniel comes from a rich family and has little interest in college. Whereas Olivia comes from a struggling family on scholarship. Her main focus is her education to get a good job. While at Halford, Nate and Olivia get paired up to work on a school project together. Coincidence or not? 🤨
She’s focused and has no time for dating due to the pressure from her family. It all gets to be too much for her. Meanwhile Nate is very obsessive. What happens when Nate’s obsession goes over too far? Who will unravel first?
Favorite quotes
🥞“She has, somehow, become someone I want beside me- not just to watch, but to unravel completely”
🧇“…but I’ll be the one to lay the world at her feet”
🥞“What if I unravel completely in front of her?”
Book 1 in the His & Hers Duet
Releases September 5
Nathaniel comes from a rich family and has little interest in college. Whereas Olivia comes from a struggling family on scholarship. Her main focus is her education to get a good job. While at Halford, Nate and Olivia get paired up to work on a school project together. Coincidence or not? 🤨
She’s focused and has no time for dating due to the pressure from her family. It all gets to be too much for her. Meanwhile Nate is very obsessive. What happens when Nate’s obsession goes over too far? Who will unravel first?
Favorite quotes
🥞“She has, somehow, become someone I want beside me- not just to watch, but to unravel completely”
🧇“…but I’ll be the one to lay the world at her feet”
🥞“What if I unravel completely in front of her?”
August 24, 2025
ARC ⭐️
Nathaniel is a mild stalker, that plans out how Olivia is going to fall in love with him. He is such a little simp for months before he finally talks to her and just falls head over hills for her. The small things he remembers and does, while also…never letting her out of his site.
Olivia is the girl who always wants to be perfect for everyone but herself. When Nathaniel comes waltzing in, she realizes that it’s okay to be taken care of and not feel guilty.
Every chapter I was yelling “wtf” because I had to keep going and then Athena went and said “hahaha gotta wait”
Excited for book 2!!
Nathaniel is a mild stalker, that plans out how Olivia is going to fall in love with him. He is such a little simp for months before he finally talks to her and just falls head over hills for her. The small things he remembers and does, while also…never letting her out of his site.
Olivia is the girl who always wants to be perfect for everyone but herself. When Nathaniel comes waltzing in, she realizes that it’s okay to be taken care of and not feel guilty.
Every chapter I was yelling “wtf” because I had to keep going and then Athena went and said “hahaha gotta wait”
Excited for book 2!!
August 30, 2025
I can’t believe this is Athena Hawthorne’s debut novel! It’s a contemporary romance, but with darker themes woven throughout that give it just the right amount of edge and mystery. Olivia has always had to play the adult, even as a kid, and you can really feel the weight of that in her character. Nathaniel is intense—possessive, controlling—but completely devoted to Olivia. Their relationship definitely has its toxic moments, but somehow, it works for them. The character development is so well done, and the way the story unfolds kept me hooked from start to finish. I can’t wait to read the rest of their story in book 2!
I could give her a dozen answers. I could tell her I’m ruined. I could tell her I’ve never wanted anything the way I want her. That if she asked me to set the whole world on fire just to keep her warm, I wouldn’t hesitate.
What is obsession if not an amplification of love?
A darker part of me craves the devotion he gives so freely. The way his entire world seems to revolve around me, the way he looks at me like I’m the only thing keeping him alive—it reassures something deep within me that I’ve never dared to name.
I could give her a dozen answers. I could tell her I’m ruined. I could tell her I’ve never wanted anything the way I want her. That if she asked me to set the whole world on fire just to keep her warm, I wouldn’t hesitate.
What is obsession if not an amplification of love?
A darker part of me craves the devotion he gives so freely. The way his entire world seems to revolve around me, the way he looks at me like I’m the only thing keeping him alive—it reassures something deep within me that I’ve never dared to name.
December 5, 2025
“His to Unravel,” the first book in the His & Hers Duet by Athena Hawthorne, is a novel that definitely grabs your attention as you dive deeper into its pages. At first, I found myself a bit hesitant about the male lead, Nathaniel. There were moments where I thought, “Whoa, red flag!” But as the story unfolds and you learn more about him, you really get to see his layers. The author does a great job of unraveling his character just like the title promises.
On the other hand, the female lead really shines as well. I loved seeing how she was always there for him, supportive and understanding, even when she had her own hesitations. It’s a story that really grew on me, and by the end, I was pretty much hooked.
In short, if you enjoy a romance where characters reveal their depths over time and support each other through their struggles, this book is definitely worth a read. I’m definitely looking forward to reading the next book in the series and seeing where Athena Hawthorne takes these characters next!
On the other hand, the female lead really shines as well. I loved seeing how she was always there for him, supportive and understanding, even when she had her own hesitations. It’s a story that really grew on me, and by the end, I was pretty much hooked.
In short, if you enjoy a romance where characters reveal their depths over time and support each other through their struggles, this book is definitely worth a read. I’m definitely looking forward to reading the next book in the series and seeing where Athena Hawthorne takes these characters next!
August 30, 2025
Oh my goodness!! Got to the end of the book and was absolutely devastated that I now have to wait for book two😭
I absolutely loved this book, loved the start of the love story between Olivia and Nathaniel! Getting the dual perspective of both of them helps to understand them as individuals and then as friends into their relationship and the journeys they both go through.
Reading through, you truly realise how important Olivia is to Nathaniel and what lengths he will go to, to make her happy and protected and to feel loved.
As the story progresses, you see the impact of having someone who is on her side, who never makes her feel unimportant and who helps her overcome her self doubts and worries.
Athena is such an incredible writer and I’m so excited to read future works by her🙈
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
I absolutely loved this book, loved the start of the love story between Olivia and Nathaniel! Getting the dual perspective of both of them helps to understand them as individuals and then as friends into their relationship and the journeys they both go through.
Reading through, you truly realise how important Olivia is to Nathaniel and what lengths he will go to, to make her happy and protected and to feel loved.
As the story progresses, you see the impact of having someone who is on her side, who never makes her feel unimportant and who helps her overcome her self doubts and worries.
Athena is such an incredible writer and I’m so excited to read future works by her🙈
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
August 29, 2025
I was completely hooked on Olivia Bennett and Nathaniel Caldwell. Olivia’s struggles with family pressure, body image, and perfectionism made her so relatable, and I rooted for her as she learned to embrace herself. Nathaniel was literal book boyfriend goals, romantic, tender, and just a little unhinged in the most captivating way. Their connection felt electric, their chemistry off the charts, and the dual POVs made their emotions and insecurities hit even harder. The way they healed each other while navigating grief, and societal expectations was beautifully written. That ending. Please. The cliffhanger left me absolutely feral. Athena Hawthorne delivered an unforgettable debut that left me desperate for book two. Thank you so much to the author and Beyond the Books for giving me the opportunity to read the book in advance, I received this for free and I'm leaving an honest review.
August 29, 2025
*** ARC review ***
If your favorite tropes are stalker, billionaire, forced proximity and a very possessive MMC then add this to your list!
I absolutely loved this debut book by Athena Hawthorne! There were moments where I absolutely loved Nathaniel and there were moments where I didn’t. He is absolutely obsessed with Olivia to a very alarming red flag creepy level for me. I absolutely loved the fact that we got to understand what happened to make him like this and my heart broke a little for him. I do want to warn you that this ends on a cliff hanger and it will be continued in book two! I will absolutely recommend this duet to anyone that likes the above listed tropes in a heartbeat!
If your favorite tropes are stalker, billionaire, forced proximity and a very possessive MMC then add this to your list!
I absolutely loved this debut book by Athena Hawthorne! There were moments where I absolutely loved Nathaniel and there were moments where I didn’t. He is absolutely obsessed with Olivia to a very alarming red flag creepy level for me. I absolutely loved the fact that we got to understand what happened to make him like this and my heart broke a little for him. I do want to warn you that this ends on a cliff hanger and it will be continued in book two! I will absolutely recommend this duet to anyone that likes the above listed tropes in a heartbeat!
August 29, 2025
Honest ARC Review
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Okay… His to Unravel by Athena Hawthorne absolutely took over my life 😭✨
The dual POVs?? Perfection. Athena makes them feel like two real people, their voices are so unique and detailed, it’s honestly addictive to read.
And Nathaniel… sir, please. Why am I giggling in every single scene 🤭 The way he’s so “crazy” for her had me kicking my feet. The stalking trope?? Lowkey so fun here and I will not be taking criticism.
This book = a rollercoaster of emotions in the BEST way possible. I literally could not put it down… “one more chapter” turned into 3am real quick 👀
Now I’m just sitting here, hooked and desperately needing the next book. Athena, bravo SPEACHLESS!!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Okay… His to Unravel by Athena Hawthorne absolutely took over my life 😭✨
The dual POVs?? Perfection. Athena makes them feel like two real people, their voices are so unique and detailed, it’s honestly addictive to read.
And Nathaniel… sir, please. Why am I giggling in every single scene 🤭 The way he’s so “crazy” for her had me kicking my feet. The stalking trope?? Lowkey so fun here and I will not be taking criticism.
This book = a rollercoaster of emotions in the BEST way possible. I literally could not put it down… “one more chapter” turned into 3am real quick 👀
Now I’m just sitting here, hooked and desperately needing the next book. Athena, bravo SPEACHLESS!!
August 28, 2025
This book was such a highly anticipated read! I’ve been following Athena on instagram since almost the beginning and I was so excited to get an arc!
Nath and Olivia are lovely characters, throughout the book we got in depth knowledge about them and the author really managed to create a well developed story for each of them.
The setting was brilliant, I could really imagine myself walking through campus, the atmosphere and the classes. It was almost as if I was part of the book.
The writing is beautiful. Almost poetic. Athena has a lovely way of writing that had me hooked and hoping for more.
I can’t wait for more now, and I would definitely recommend this book!
Nath and Olivia are lovely characters, throughout the book we got in depth knowledge about them and the author really managed to create a well developed story for each of them.
The setting was brilliant, I could really imagine myself walking through campus, the atmosphere and the classes. It was almost as if I was part of the book.
The writing is beautiful. Almost poetic. Athena has a lovely way of writing that had me hooked and hoping for more.
I can’t wait for more now, and I would definitely recommend this book!
August 29, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
His to Unravel completely owned me from start to finish. Athena Hawthorne has this way of pulling you into a dark, emotional, addictive story and not letting go. And the way the unraveling of secrets kept me flipping pages like my life depended on it 👀 if I didnt had a child I read this in one sitting 😊 but yeahhh my child needs his mommyy 😂😂😂
This book is everything:
💔 Angsty
🔥 Steamy
🎭 Emotional rollercoaster
🖤 Dark but beautiful
❤️ romantic
If you love a story that will break you, this is the one. a 5/5
His to Unravel completely owned me from start to finish. Athena Hawthorne has this way of pulling you into a dark, emotional, addictive story and not letting go. And the way the unraveling of secrets kept me flipping pages like my life depended on it 👀 if I didnt had a child I read this in one sitting 😊 but yeahhh my child needs his mommyy 😂😂😂
This book is everything:
💔 Angsty
🔥 Steamy
🎭 Emotional rollercoaster
🖤 Dark but beautiful
❤️ romantic
If you love a story that will break you, this is the one. a 5/5
August 30, 2025
Spicy obsession or protection? His to unravel serves as an example of his willingness to take action. The narrative features numerous twists and turns, defying my expectations and leading to a surprising conclusion, making for a great read.
August 25, 2025
Ohh Nathaniel was all in for our girl Olivia from the start. The way he sees her among a room full of people. Also how he describes the way she makes him feel 🥹I caught myself starting to highlight things from the very first page 🤭. Listen non readers might say it’s obsessive/stalkerish behavior but us readers see it as love!! 🤭 He’s protective of her and only has eyes for her. This story had so many aww moments and definitely SPICY moments. I absolutely can’t wait for the next one because that ending 😮💨!
August 29, 2025
A debut book? Reading this felt like it was years in the making. The plot was so well done that you would think the author has been writing and publishing books like this for years. The story kept me on my toes, the character development was phenomenal, and ended in a way that was unpredictable. Fell in love with Nathaniel from the start (love my red flag morally grey men) and loved Olivia's character. Can't wait for the second book to this duet ❤️
August 25, 2025
I was lucky to be able to read this before it was published. this book had me hooked! whilst at first I was dubious about how to feel about Nathaniel, the progress of the character and story kept me turning pages! I love we see each perspective and each chapter kept you reading! talk about cliff hanger tho! give me more! roll on book 2!
December 27, 2025
A Masterclass in Obsession, Trauma, and the Deepest Kind of Love
Oh. My. Gosh. That cliffhanger. I went in expecting a nice, pretty happily-ever-after tied up in a neat little bow—and instead, I got emotionally wrecked in the best way possible. And honestly? I needed that.
We start in the MMC’s point of view, and that sets the tone immediately: intense, obsessive, deeply controlled. The deeper you get into his head, the more you see the trauma that shaped him—this desperate need for control, for ownership, for certainty. At first, it felt like a lot. A little over the top. But the further the story unravels, the more you realize: it’s not just for shock value. It’s who he is. It’s how he survives.
And then comes the FMC, and suddenly, you start to see the mirrored pain. She’s quieter, maybe softer, but her trauma runs just as deep. Like him, she’s always been second best. Overlooked. Convenient but never chosen. Both of them are battling the same core wound: never being enough. Never being fully seen, loved, or prioritized. The way their pain folds into each other—it’s tragic, consuming, and completely addicting.
The author doesn’t spoon-feed you their healing. You have to earn it. The story teases, spirals, reveals itself in layers. It’s almost compulsive—like you’re becoming obsessed as they do. And the writing? Sharp, emotional, unrelenting. It knows exactly how much to give you… and how much to hold back so you need more.
This isn’t just dark romance. It’s trauma wrapped in lust, in longing, in power struggles and whispered confessions. It’s the kind of book that reaches into those places you hide and says, “I see you. I know what it’s like to be invisible.”
⸻
Tropes:
• Stalker / Obsession
• Possessive MMC who makes no apologies
• “Never good enough” / Placeholder syndrome
• Dual POV (MMC-heavy, emotionally intense)
• Spice that burns with purpose—not just heat
Oh. My. Gosh. That cliffhanger. I went in expecting a nice, pretty happily-ever-after tied up in a neat little bow—and instead, I got emotionally wrecked in the best way possible. And honestly? I needed that.
We start in the MMC’s point of view, and that sets the tone immediately: intense, obsessive, deeply controlled. The deeper you get into his head, the more you see the trauma that shaped him—this desperate need for control, for ownership, for certainty. At first, it felt like a lot. A little over the top. But the further the story unravels, the more you realize: it’s not just for shock value. It’s who he is. It’s how he survives.
And then comes the FMC, and suddenly, you start to see the mirrored pain. She’s quieter, maybe softer, but her trauma runs just as deep. Like him, she’s always been second best. Overlooked. Convenient but never chosen. Both of them are battling the same core wound: never being enough. Never being fully seen, loved, or prioritized. The way their pain folds into each other—it’s tragic, consuming, and completely addicting.
The author doesn’t spoon-feed you their healing. You have to earn it. The story teases, spirals, reveals itself in layers. It’s almost compulsive—like you’re becoming obsessed as they do. And the writing? Sharp, emotional, unrelenting. It knows exactly how much to give you… and how much to hold back so you need more.
This isn’t just dark romance. It’s trauma wrapped in lust, in longing, in power struggles and whispered confessions. It’s the kind of book that reaches into those places you hide and says, “I see you. I know what it’s like to be invisible.”
⸻
Tropes:
• Stalker / Obsession
• Possessive MMC who makes no apologies
• “Never good enough” / Placeholder syndrome
• Dual POV (MMC-heavy, emotionally intense)
• Spice that burns with purpose—not just heat
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