If you’re a lover of dark romance and psychological thrillers, you’ve likely heard of H. D. Carlton. Her edge-of-your-seat writing blends gripping suspense, morally gray characters, and intense emotions, leaving readers spellbound with every turn of the page. Whether you’re a seasoned fan or new to her work, this guide will walk you through H. D. Carlton’s books in chronological order, featuring brief summaries, recurring themes, and must-read recommendations.

Dive in and discover where to begin or what to read next to fully immerse yourself in H. D. Carlton’s intriguing, shadowy world.

Who Is H. D. Carlton?

H. D. Carlton has gained a devoted fanbase for her unique style, which masterfully combines dark themes, complex characters, and evocative storytelling. Her books aren’t for the faint of heart, as she doesn’t shy away from exploring the darker sides of human nature. What sets her apart is her ability to weave suspenseful narratives that also touch on themes of love, redemption, and resilience. Whether it’s her standalone novels or interconnected series, her works are designed to leave you captivated and occasionally unsettled—in the best way possible.

Starting her career in 2020, H. D. Carlton has quickly become a go-to author for fans of thrilling, morally complex tales.

H. D. Carlton Books in Chronological Order

For readers who want to experience H. D. Carlton’s stories as they were published, here’s her catalog in chronological order.

Cat & Mouse Series (Including Novellas and Spinoffs)

1. Satan’s Affair (Cat & Mouse Novella, 2021)

This novella introduces Sibby, a deeply intriguing character who sets the tone for the intense psychological twists that define the Cat & Mouse universe. Set against a carnival backdrop, this story is as eerie as it is enthralling and serves as a prelude to the full-length novels.

2. Haunting Adeline (Cat & Mouse Duet #1, 2021)

Meet Zade and Adeline, whose story begins with a dark and haunting obsession. “Haunting Adeline” is a chilling blend of romance and psychological suspense that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.

3. Hunting Adeline (Cat & Mouse Duet #2, 2022)

Zade and Adeline’s story continues, growing darker and more intense as layers of deception and complexity unravel. This is a masterclass in tension and high-stakes storytelling.

4. Where’s Molly (Cat & Mouse Spinoff, 2024)

Scheduled for publication in 2024, “Where’s Molly” takes readers into the mysterious and thrilling world of Molly and Cage. Fans of the series are eagerly anticipating this exciting spinoff.

5. Phantom (Prelude to Haunting Adeline, 2025)

Set to release on January 14th, 2025, “Phantom” provides deeper context to the events and characters leading up to the Cat & Mouse Duet.

Standalone Novels

1. Shallow River (2020)

This standalone follows River and Mako, combining heartbreak, suspense, and intense character dynamics in a story about small-town secrets and survival.

2. Does It Hurt? (2022)

Enzo and Sawyer take center stage in this gripping tale weaving themes of betrayal, revenge, and redemption. Set against the backdrop of stormy oceans and uncharted islands, it’s a dark romance that fans of suspense will adore.

Summaries of H. D. Carlton’s Books (Spoiler-Free)

Here’s a deeper look at what you can expect from her novels.

Satan’s Affair

Prepare for a chilling carnival ride where nothing is quite what it seems. This novella is the perfect appetizer for the Cat & Mouse series, introducing you to vivid characters and a taste of the eerie atmosphere Carlton excels at creating.

Haunting Adeline PDF

Adeline’s life takes a twisted turn when Zade, a stranger filled with dark obsession, enters her world. The chemistry between them is palpable, but nothing can prepare you for the psychological games at play.

Hunting Adeline

The stakes are higher than ever in this explosive sequel. Zade and Adeline’s relationship becomes even more tangled, and the story dives deeper into betrayal, redemption, and survival.

Shallow River

A standalone thriller with emotional depth, this novel follows River as she escapes her painful past and crosses paths with Mako. Together, they uncover hidden truths that will change their lives forever.

Does It Hurt?

Set on a remote island, this novel introduces us to Enzo and Sawyer, whose lives intertwine in a tale of deception, danger, and unexpected love.

Recurring Themes in H. D. Carlton’s Work

H. D. Carlton’s books may seem diverse, but they share some recurring themes and motifs that make her work stand out.

• Dark Romance

Carlton’s characters often find themselves in morally gray situations, testing the boundaries of love and obsession.

• Survival and Transformation

Her protagonists frequently face extraordinary challenges that push them to their limits and lead to profound personal growth.

• Psychological Depth

Whether it’s through mental struggles or moral dilemmas, Carlton’s characters grapple with the human psyche in authentic and compelling ways.

• Suspense and Mystery

Carlton has a knack for building suspense, leaving readers guessing what will happen next as they race toward jaw-dropping twists.

Recommendations Based on Preferences

• For fans of dark romance: Start with “Haunting Adeline.”
• For standalone lovers: “Shallow River” is a great introduction to Carlton’s writing.
• For those who love psychological thrillers: “Does It Hurt?” will keep you riveted until the last page.

Fan Theories and Interpretations

The Cat & Mouse series has sparked its fair share of fan theories, from possible links between Sibby and Zade’s pasts to cryptic clues hidden in Adeline’s story. Fans have speculated on symbolism within the series, such as the significance of recurring motifs like phantom imagery.

These discussions enrich the reading experience and reflect the depth of Carlton’s storytelling.

Where to Start Your H. D. Carlton Journey

Whether you’re into heart-pounding thrillers, morally gray characters, or expertly crafted tension, H. D. Carlton’s books promise an unforgettable reading experience. Start with the Cat & Mouse Duet if you’re looking for a gripping series or pick up a standalone for a quick yet satisfying taste of her storytelling brilliance.

Take your love for thrillers to the next level. Explore H. D. Carlton’s works today and prepare to be utterly transfixed.