What do you think?
Rate this book
It Had to Be You
Two contract killers, each with a hit out on the other, must fight their growing attraction as they face off in an epic game of lust and murder across Western Europe.When Eva and Jonathan hook up on the sleeper train from Florence to Paris, they think they’ll never see each other again. Which is too bad, because neither has ever felt a spark like this for another person. But love isn’t on the agenda in their line of work. Six months later, they run into each other in the Hall of Mirrors in Versailles. This meeting is not by chance, because Eva has been hired to kill Jonathan. She’s a contract killer, but what she doesn’t know is that he is too.Their meeting kicks off a high-stakes cross-continent adventure across Western Europe. There will be tourism. There will be bodies. Eva and Jonathan might even fall for each other.As the two get closer to completing their assignments, it becomes clear that they are also being hunted—by something even more dangerous than love. . .
384 pages, Hardcover
First published July 16, 2024
103 people are currently reading
19462 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 565 reviews
May 28, 2024
Arc Review
Publishing Date-7/16/2024
My Rating- 4.5 Stars
“She wears a long black dress and long black gloves to hide any bloodstains. She carries a silver purse, a Glock, and a prayer”
What To Expect/Content Warnings
❤️🔥Dark Romantic Comedy
❤️🔥Dual POV
❤️🔥He Falls First
❤️🔥Contract Killers
❤️🔥European Setting
❤️🔥Spice, Spice and more Spice
❤️🔥Murders
❤️🔥Talks Of Suicide
❤️🔥Use of Guns & Knives
“She is crazy, and it is so fucking hot. I want to get down on my knees and worship her, the only god in this whole chapel”
My Thoughts-
This book is exactly what I needed to get me out of a slump. I throughly enjoyed this book. For me this was such a fun and face paced read. The premise is so unique. Two contract killers who are both ordered to kill one another, but end of falling in love. Sign me up. This was a very engaging read. I wanted to know who put the hit out on the both of them, and I wanted to see what would happen between these two, romantically or in death. Between the banter and inner monologues I was cackling. This is certainly a deranged and dark book but the comedy aspect lightens the mood. The characters were very likable and flawed. Even though the main characters were cold blooded killer, they both had a soft side that most can relate to. This was a chaotic read and I loved every page, I definitely recommend this book.
“What did I expect was going to happen? He told me he was going to kill me, several times. I acted like it was foreplay”
“I would die for her, I think. I might even let her kill me”
Playlist-
💋Bad Guy- Billie Ellish
💋Burning Desire- Lana Del Rey
💋Too Sweet- Hozier
💋Never Be The Same- Camila Cabello
💋Bad Habits- Steve Lacy
💋Down Bad- Taylor Swift
💋Paint The Town Red- Doja Cat
💋Sunflower- Post Malone
💋We Found Love- Rihanna
💋Dont Blame Me- Taylor Swift
💋Blinding Lights- The Weekend
💋Levitating- Dua Lipa
💋Murder On The Dancefloor- Sophie Ellis Bextor
💋Passport Bros- Bas, J.cole
✨Thanks to NetGalley, The Author, & Berkley Publishing for an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review ✨
Publishing Date-7/16/2024
My Rating- 4.5 Stars
“She wears a long black dress and long black gloves to hide any bloodstains. She carries a silver purse, a Glock, and a prayer”
What To Expect/Content Warnings
❤️🔥Dark Romantic Comedy
❤️🔥Dual POV
❤️🔥He Falls First
❤️🔥Contract Killers
❤️🔥European Setting
❤️🔥Spice, Spice and more Spice
❤️🔥Murders
❤️🔥Talks Of Suicide
❤️🔥Use of Guns & Knives
“She is crazy, and it is so fucking hot. I want to get down on my knees and worship her, the only god in this whole chapel”
My Thoughts-
This book is exactly what I needed to get me out of a slump. I throughly enjoyed this book. For me this was such a fun and face paced read. The premise is so unique. Two contract killers who are both ordered to kill one another, but end of falling in love. Sign me up. This was a very engaging read. I wanted to know who put the hit out on the both of them, and I wanted to see what would happen between these two, romantically or in death. Between the banter and inner monologues I was cackling. This is certainly a deranged and dark book but the comedy aspect lightens the mood. The characters were very likable and flawed. Even though the main characters were cold blooded killer, they both had a soft side that most can relate to. This was a chaotic read and I loved every page, I definitely recommend this book.
“What did I expect was going to happen? He told me he was going to kill me, several times. I acted like it was foreplay”
“I would die for her, I think. I might even let her kill me”
Playlist-
💋Bad Guy- Billie Ellish
💋Burning Desire- Lana Del Rey
💋Too Sweet- Hozier
💋Never Be The Same- Camila Cabello
💋Bad Habits- Steve Lacy
💋Down Bad- Taylor Swift
💋Paint The Town Red- Doja Cat
💋Sunflower- Post Malone
💋We Found Love- Rihanna
💋Dont Blame Me- Taylor Swift
💋Blinding Lights- The Weekend
💋Levitating- Dua Lipa
💋Murder On The Dancefloor- Sophie Ellis Bextor
💋Passport Bros- Bas, J.cole
✨Thanks to NetGalley, The Author, & Berkley Publishing for an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review ✨
Want to read
June 25, 2024
Two contract killers, each with a hit out on the other, must fight their growing attraction as they face off in an epic game of lust and murder across Western Europe.
This sounds so cool, I love romantic suspense mysteries!!!
This sounds so cool, I love romantic suspense mysteries!!!
June 4, 2024
Everyone knows that Eliza Jane Brazier is a full-blown auto-read author for me and her latest 2024 novel, IT HAD TO BE YOU, further cements that. IT HAD TO BE YOU is the most unhinged, spicy, and BEST novel that she has ever written and I cannot wait for everyone to get their hands on this unique romance-thriller!
Eva and Jonathan are two contract killers who meet unexpectedly on a sleeper train from Florence to Paris; unbeknownst to them about their secret career paths. Their chemistry is magnetic and the two hook up while on the train, but leave each other thinking they may never see each other again. When the two end up running into each other six month later in the Hall of Mirrors (my favorite place ever!!) in Versailles, the two's magnetic pull towards each other further is harnessed. However, Eva was contracted to kill Jonathan, leading to a total collision of their worlds in ways we would never expect.
I knew this book would be spicy but HOT DAMN did it get spicy! IT HAD TO BE YOU is the perfect combination of Carola Lovering meets Lisa Jewell. This book is sexy, wild, unhinged, amazing, spectacular, the moment, iconic, and a total blast. I read IT HAD TO BE YOU in one sitting because I couldn't put it down. I do think this book hits harder for me because it involves toxic romance and ummmm, I can relate! This book is so unique and hard to pinpoint how to categorize, but I think it's a romance-thriller? All I know is that Eliza Jane Brazier has busted the door down on a new subgenre that I want more of. Readers of this author must prioritize this—it's an amazing beach read. Expect IT HAD TO BE YOU to be in my top reads of the year!
Eva and Jonathan are two contract killers who meet unexpectedly on a sleeper train from Florence to Paris; unbeknownst to them about their secret career paths. Their chemistry is magnetic and the two hook up while on the train, but leave each other thinking they may never see each other again. When the two end up running into each other six month later in the Hall of Mirrors (my favorite place ever!!) in Versailles, the two's magnetic pull towards each other further is harnessed. However, Eva was contracted to kill Jonathan, leading to a total collision of their worlds in ways we would never expect.
I knew this book would be spicy but HOT DAMN did it get spicy! IT HAD TO BE YOU is the perfect combination of Carola Lovering meets Lisa Jewell. This book is sexy, wild, unhinged, amazing, spectacular, the moment, iconic, and a total blast. I read IT HAD TO BE YOU in one sitting because I couldn't put it down. I do think this book hits harder for me because it involves toxic romance and ummmm, I can relate! This book is so unique and hard to pinpoint how to categorize, but I think it's a romance-thriller? All I know is that Eliza Jane Brazier has busted the door down on a new subgenre that I want more of. Readers of this author must prioritize this—it's an amazing beach read. Expect IT HAD TO BE YOU to be in my top reads of the year!
September 29, 2024
“The world is filled with people living the most extraordinary, ordinary lives.”
When I saw this one at my local library, I thought at first, “you have got to be kidding me!” But then it made sense. This really seemed like an almost perfect premise. And, a truly quick read! Yes! It took me just a day to read.
How could you not like a story where two people meet on a train and their next kill orders are for each other for romance in this Mr. & Mrs. Smith way? (Think Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie when they liked each other.) And, they didn’t know that they were both assassins. But not only were they both assassins, but they were both assassins set up with kill orders to kill each other! How do you do that, after you meet each other on a train and practically fall for each other? (And, I’m not giving away spoilers, this is all told to readers from the get-go.)
So, obviously this is a rom-com mixed with suspense and assassins.
What we really have is 2 people who really are awkward, due to their careers and early lives. Here they are meeting. Their first encounter with each other. On a night train to Paris. How romantic is that?
But they both have pasts. Right?
They know they are damaged goods. But they finally found the one person they think can finally accept them. For themselves. But they also think they will never see each other again.
Fast forward six months. And guess what. Who is their kill target? Yep. Now what are they to do?
How about as readers enjoy a “killing” good time?
“My old life has ended. My new life is only just beginning.”
Just let the pages fly. Readers will not regret it.
When I saw this one at my local library, I thought at first, “you have got to be kidding me!” But then it made sense. This really seemed like an almost perfect premise. And, a truly quick read! Yes! It took me just a day to read.
How could you not like a story where two people meet on a train and their next kill orders are for each other for romance in this Mr. & Mrs. Smith way? (Think Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie when they liked each other.) And, they didn’t know that they were both assassins. But not only were they both assassins, but they were both assassins set up with kill orders to kill each other! How do you do that, after you meet each other on a train and practically fall for each other? (And, I’m not giving away spoilers, this is all told to readers from the get-go.)
So, obviously this is a rom-com mixed with suspense and assassins.
What we really have is 2 people who really are awkward, due to their careers and early lives. Here they are meeting. Their first encounter with each other. On a night train to Paris. How romantic is that?
But they both have pasts. Right?
They know they are damaged goods. But they finally found the one person they think can finally accept them. For themselves. But they also think they will never see each other again.
Fast forward six months. And guess what. Who is their kill target? Yep. Now what are they to do?
How about as readers enjoy a “killing” good time?
“My old life has ended. My new life is only just beginning.”
Just let the pages fly. Readers will not regret it.
August 17, 2024
It’s not the best book ever but I had fun!
August 11, 2025
4.5 🌟
Mood/Seasonal Reading: anytime but I want to say summer
Alexa play “is somebody is gonna match my freak”.
I’m rounding this one up to hopefully help raise what I believe is an incorrect average on here. While it’s not joining my true 5 star loved reads I firmly believe it needs more love.
If you liked the vibes of Mr. And Mrs. Smith you’ll love this. Sexy, funny, fast paced and mysterious this had it all. The perfect amount of romance to adventure; I ate this up. It hit all the right notes. The main characters were uniquely insane and the assassins plot was intriguing.
I really enjoyed this one! Hoping to find another with the same vibes.
Mood/Seasonal Reading: anytime but I want to say summer
Alexa play “is somebody is gonna match my freak”.
I’m rounding this one up to hopefully help raise what I believe is an incorrect average on here. While it’s not joining my true 5 star loved reads I firmly believe it needs more love.
If you liked the vibes of Mr. And Mrs. Smith you’ll love this. Sexy, funny, fast paced and mysterious this had it all. The perfect amount of romance to adventure; I ate this up. It hit all the right notes. The main characters were uniquely insane and the assassins plot was intriguing.
I really enjoyed this one! Hoping to find another with the same vibes.
November 16, 2024
IT HAD TO BE YOU
- Follows Jonathan and Eva, two contract killers. After meeting (and hooking up) on a train, they cannot get the other off their mind. Imagine Eva’s surprise when six months later, her next assignment, is him.
I honestly don’t have enough words to describe how good this book was, and how much I enjoyed following Jonathan and Eva’s love story. This was funny, sad, and hopeful.
Some moments honestly had me laughing out loud and others made me tear up.
Can’t wait to check out more from this author!
- Follows Jonathan and Eva, two contract killers. After meeting (and hooking up) on a train, they cannot get the other off their mind. Imagine Eva’s surprise when six months later, her next assignment, is him.
I honestly don’t have enough words to describe how good this book was, and how much I enjoyed following Jonathan and Eva’s love story. This was funny, sad, and hopeful.
Some moments honestly had me laughing out loud and others made me tear up.
Can’t wait to check out more from this author!
March 25, 2024
2.75 stars, rounded up | Thank you to the publishers for this advanced copy.
I was really disappointed in this book. The writing was super inconsistent to a point where I’d put the book down to go do something then come back and start a new chapter, feeling like I missed something. The pacing was engaging, but unfortunately instalove was pretty present, and not in a way that’s appropriate for the setting. It felt like the author couldn’t decide on making this book a satire or something more serious, and so all attempts at a more comic lenses felt disjointed. Not to mentions any attempts at including feminism in this fell short. For Eva to talk about how her failure makes it harder for other female assassins to succeed just feels weird, and almost like a mockery of women who do work really hard in their fields to make it easier for their successors. Not to mention that every time Jonathan mentioned Eva in his inner monologue, all I could think about was the cool girl monologue from Gone Girl. Also, considering that the majority of the story was set in France, I feel like there should have been someone who spoke French reviewing the language. So much of the allusions to characters speaking was disjointed, like a French character randomly peppering in English expletives into their native language, which came off stilted, especially as someone who had a pretty good grasp of both languages.
That all being said, there were a lot of good twists, even if they were predictable. I’m just very disappointed in this book; I wanted it to do a lot more than it did.
I was really disappointed in this book. The writing was super inconsistent to a point where I’d put the book down to go do something then come back and start a new chapter, feeling like I missed something. The pacing was engaging, but unfortunately instalove was pretty present, and not in a way that’s appropriate for the setting. It felt like the author couldn’t decide on making this book a satire or something more serious, and so all attempts at a more comic lenses felt disjointed. Not to mentions any attempts at including feminism in this fell short. For Eva to talk about how her failure makes it harder for other female assassins to succeed just feels weird, and almost like a mockery of women who do work really hard in their fields to make it easier for their successors. Not to mention that every time Jonathan mentioned Eva in his inner monologue, all I could think about was the cool girl monologue from Gone Girl. Also, considering that the majority of the story was set in France, I feel like there should have been someone who spoke French reviewing the language. So much of the allusions to characters speaking was disjointed, like a French character randomly peppering in English expletives into their native language, which came off stilted, especially as someone who had a pretty good grasp of both languages.
That all being said, there were a lot of good twists, even if they were predictable. I’m just very disappointed in this book; I wanted it to do a lot more than it did.
December 26, 2024
It must be me ....
because "It Had to Be You" was NOT FOR ME!
IMHO, this 1-star audiobook should have been a 10-star audiobook.
WHY?
1) Intriguing Premise:
Two contract killers, each with a hit out on the other, have the hots for each other.
Yes, this "killer romance" premise was compelling and refreshingly different.
2) Brilliant Audiobook Narration:
The multi-cast narration by January LaVoy and Will Damron was 10-star.
WHAT HAPPENED?
After a strong beginning, repeated explicit sex scenes and vulgar language in every single chapter tanked the rating of this book.
I prefer G-rated thrillers.
UGH!!!!!!
July 14, 2024
I enjoyed the author's last book, Girls and their horses but I absolutely LOVED this latest dual POV thriller that sees a female assassin falling for a contract killer on an overnight train only to later find herself assigned to kill him.
The perfect blend of Killing Eve and Mr & Mrs Smith, this was great on audio narrated by January LaVoy and Will Damron and sure to be a memorable romantic suspense read this year!
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early digital copy and @prhaudio for a complimentary ALC in exchange for my honest review! This needs to be a movie ASAP!!
The perfect blend of Killing Eve and Mr & Mrs Smith, this was great on audio narrated by January LaVoy and Will Damron and sure to be a memorable romantic suspense read this year!
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early digital copy and @prhaudio for a complimentary ALC in exchange for my honest review! This needs to be a movie ASAP!!
December 17, 2024
4.5 Stars
If I Had to Be You by Eliza Jane Brazier is a really great blend of romance and thriller. What truly stood out was how seamlessly woven the romance was into the tension and mystery, making it feel organic and real, deeply tying it to the internal struggles of Eva and Jonathan.
Both Eva and Jonathan’s journey is one of vulnerability, fear, and self discovery. Finding who they could be if they weren’t apart of this contract killer life. Both are struggling with the weight of their pasts and their current lives, and it’s incredible to watch them navigate feelings of love and connection that seem entirely foreign to them, minus Eva’s supposed love for Andrew. Their emotional growth adds a layer of suspense that raises the thriller aspect of the book, making the stakes feel even more personal.
Honestly, the romance didn’t feel like an afterthought, but rather a crucial part of the story. It was my favorite aspect of the entire book. How two “evil” people can find love within each other.
Even though the pacing occasionally wavered, the emotional resonance of Evie and Jonathan’s relationship more than made up for it. Highly recommend for those that love love and thrillers.
If I Had to Be You by Eliza Jane Brazier is a really great blend of romance and thriller. What truly stood out was how seamlessly woven the romance was into the tension and mystery, making it feel organic and real, deeply tying it to the internal struggles of Eva and Jonathan.
Both Eva and Jonathan’s journey is one of vulnerability, fear, and self discovery. Finding who they could be if they weren’t apart of this contract killer life. Both are struggling with the weight of their pasts and their current lives, and it’s incredible to watch them navigate feelings of love and connection that seem entirely foreign to them, minus Eva’s supposed love for Andrew. Their emotional growth adds a layer of suspense that raises the thriller aspect of the book, making the stakes feel even more personal.
Honestly, the romance didn’t feel like an afterthought, but rather a crucial part of the story. It was my favorite aspect of the entire book. How two “evil” people can find love within each other.
Even though the pacing occasionally wavered, the emotional resonance of Evie and Jonathan’s relationship more than made up for it. Highly recommend for those that love love and thrillers.
July 11, 2024
4.5/5
I’ve read all of the authors books and this is definitely her best in my opinion! She’s always drawn me in with an addictive writing style and a compelling hook but she really took things to the next level here. The premise itself was unhinged in the best way and the characters are just as bat shit as the premise suggests. I love a deranged character and here you get two and you also get some pretty steamy romance which I’m always down for. There was also some great dark humor if that’s your thing and the cat and mouse vibes kept the entire thing exciting. I had a blast with this one and think if you want a unique thriller this is a great choice.
I’ve read all of the authors books and this is definitely her best in my opinion! She’s always drawn me in with an addictive writing style and a compelling hook but she really took things to the next level here. The premise itself was unhinged in the best way and the characters are just as bat shit as the premise suggests. I love a deranged character and here you get two and you also get some pretty steamy romance which I’m always down for. There was also some great dark humor if that’s your thing and the cat and mouse vibes kept the entire thing exciting. I had a blast with this one and think if you want a unique thriller this is a great choice.
October 5, 2024
I love Eliza Jane Brazier, so it was a no-brainer for me to read It Had to Be You. However, I went in expecting this to be a thriller or a mystery for some reason and it certainly is NOT either of those things. There is definitely suspense, but mainly this is a romance, and I wish I had been expecting it. I guess that's what I get for not reading the synopsis and not understanding the cover. 😂 I love the concept that both of our MCs are contract killers and Eva is a straight-up badass bitch. She can hold her own with the best of them, and the lusty connection between her and Jonathan is STRONG. Long story short, be prepared for some spicy 🥵 scenes!
The audiobook was a delight with January LaVoy & Will Damron narrating, and the short chapters made their back and forth feel like you are listening to a conversation instead of a book. The setup was perfect for them, and their dual narration was on point. I have now read every book by Brazier, and I think this is probably my least favorite, but I am honestly chalking that up to me not expecting a romance and being irritated by the focus on that instead of their profession. That being said, It Had to Be You is a great quickly-paced romance, and I will be thinking about a reread in the future when I am in the right mindset!
I received an advance listening copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
The audiobook was a delight with January LaVoy & Will Damron narrating, and the short chapters made their back and forth feel like you are listening to a conversation instead of a book. The setup was perfect for them, and their dual narration was on point. I have now read every book by Brazier, and I think this is probably my least favorite, but I am honestly chalking that up to me not expecting a romance and being irritated by the focus on that instead of their profession. That being said, It Had to Be You is a great quickly-paced romance, and I will be thinking about a reread in the future when I am in the right mindset!
I received an advance listening copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
August 7, 2024
Goodness...this was so different from this author's previous novels, and for myself at least, sadly not in a good way.
With two hired assassins at its' center, this read similar to Mr. & Mrs. Smith, with a ton more silly dialogue, and even more unrealistic situations - in order to even remotely enjoy this one you must be prepared to suspend your disbelief and enjoy it for what it is - an incredibly far-fetched romantic comedy that is a great departure for this author. I wish I'd enjoyed it more, but I quickly got annoyed by the stupidity of the characters; who, when being hunted and in fear for their lives, thinks only about getting it on?! Some of the things the two protagonists said really just made me roll my eyes, way too many time throughout this read! You'd think two of the 'deadliest' assassins in the world would be very cautious and bright, but these two just seemed overly dim. I had to keep reminding myself that this wasn't meant to be a thriller, as this author's first several novels have been - it was definitely a challenge!
Even though this was a major 'miss' for me, I'm certain a lot of romantic comedy fanatics will eat this one up, and I get it, as it's definitely a light, lusty romcom. For those who are a fan of Elle Cosiman's Finlay Donovan series, this may be right up your alley. For those who enjoyed this author's first two novels, I'd probably give this one a pass!
With two hired assassins at its' center, this read similar to Mr. & Mrs. Smith, with a ton more silly dialogue, and even more unrealistic situations - in order to even remotely enjoy this one you must be prepared to suspend your disbelief and enjoy it for what it is - an incredibly far-fetched romantic comedy that is a great departure for this author. I wish I'd enjoyed it more, but I quickly got annoyed by the stupidity of the characters; who, when being hunted and in fear for their lives, thinks only about getting it on?! Some of the things the two protagonists said really just made me roll my eyes, way too many time throughout this read! You'd think two of the 'deadliest' assassins in the world would be very cautious and bright, but these two just seemed overly dim. I had to keep reminding myself that this wasn't meant to be a thriller, as this author's first several novels have been - it was definitely a challenge!
Even though this was a major 'miss' for me, I'm certain a lot of romantic comedy fanatics will eat this one up, and I get it, as it's definitely a light, lusty romcom. For those who are a fan of Elle Cosiman's Finlay Donovan series, this may be right up your alley. For those who enjoyed this author's first two novels, I'd probably give this one a pass!
July 28, 2024
halfway in i already knew this was going to be a three-star read - did i like it? sure, it was dramatic and fun and kept me hooked. however some parts were so absurd and made absolutely no sense at all - what kind of therapist, when learning that their client has previously gone to prison for murder, refers him to a handler so that he can become a hitman? and i don't like how eva keeps justifying her kills with wanting to exhibit #girlpower and proving that women can murder just as good as men - what kind of twisted feminism is that??? plus the chemistry between the two main characters was really lacking at the beginning, to be honest it felt a bit like a convenient one night stand at first.
November 8, 2024
• H has a lot of causal sex and more experiences than the h
• h also has casual sex sometimes but not often
• condoms used
• no past hookups on H’s side (ex fiancée on h’s side but he doesn’t cause drama/ try to get in between her relationship with the H)
• I don’t think they were with anyone during separation
• h also has casual sex sometimes but not often
• condoms used
• no past hookups on H’s side (ex fiancée on h’s side but he doesn’t cause drama/ try to get in between her relationship with the H)
• I don’t think they were with anyone during separation
August 19, 2024
Not my usual thriller book because I’m not big into romance or lots of steam, but this was a fun one and I really enjoyed it!
I love the characters’ dynamic and I enjoyed both of them separately. Part of me does wish they had a bit more depth in terms of their relationship. There was something that felt a bit off.
This book gave me Mr & Mrs Smith vibes! The dark humor and sarcasm kept this book on the lighter side.
Newbies to thrillers will enjoy this one!
Can’t wait for more from Eliza Jane Brazier.
I love the characters’ dynamic and I enjoyed both of them separately. Part of me does wish they had a bit more depth in terms of their relationship. There was something that felt a bit off.
This book gave me Mr & Mrs Smith vibes! The dark humor and sarcasm kept this book on the lighter side.
Newbies to thrillers will enjoy this one!
Can’t wait for more from Eliza Jane Brazier.
July 20, 2024
It Had to Be You is a fun, quirky read about two contract killers, Eva and Jonathan, who are hired to kill each other but end up falling in love. It’s a quick read with two damaged characters who you end up rooting for. The story is told from the alternating points of view of Eva and Jonathan which I really enjoyed. Both are great characters - you know you shouldn’t like them, but you do!
There is romance, spicy scenes, action scenes, some twists and turns, and a great build-up to a satisfying ending.
This is such an entertaining summer read. I could absolutely see a movie being made out of this novel!
There is romance, spicy scenes, action scenes, some twists and turns, and a great build-up to a satisfying ending.
This is such an entertaining summer read. I could absolutely see a movie being made out of this novel!
![Profile Image for laurel [the suspected bibliophile].](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.gr-assets.com%2Fimages%2FS%2Fcompressed.photo.goodreads.com%2Fusers%2F1645808644i%2F7494844._UX200_CR0%2C6%2C200%2C200_.jpg&w=128&q=75)
April 11, 2025
"I'm an assassin, and a woman, and if I don't kill him, they'll just hire a man to do it, and isn't that just like, against the rules of feminism?
-Eva, probably
Look, this Mr and Mrs Smith but unmarried and in Europe adaptation is ridiculous, and that's kinda the point. It's early 00s schmuck complete with girrrrl power, and I was entertained the entire way through.
Anywho, two serial killers who are also assassins shack up on a train (he's mortally wounded but what blood isn't coming out of his body is going straight to his dick, so it's okay) and then they meet up six months later when she's assigned a hit on his out-of-control ass. Networks, agencies, all of it lines up to a silly surprise and a grand reveal (and a really regrettable death).
TL;DR: It's fun if you don't take it too seriously or quibble about the sad sex scenes, where they penetrate each other with anything and everything except anywhere near the butt, because apparently we can fuck each other in the sides with knives, but a dick to the ass is just too much.
...it's reviews like these that make me wish I didn't know people irl on this website.
"Hurt people, hurt people."
-Jonathan, probably
-Eva, probably
Look, this Mr and Mrs Smith but unmarried and in Europe adaptation is ridiculous, and that's kinda the point. It's early 00s schmuck complete with girrrrl power, and I was entertained the entire way through.
Anywho, two serial killers who are also assassins shack up on a train (he's mortally wounded but what blood isn't coming out of his body is going straight to his dick, so it's okay) and then they meet up six months later when she's assigned a hit on his out-of-control ass. Networks, agencies, all of it lines up to a silly surprise and a grand reveal (and a really regrettable death).
TL;DR: It's fun if you don't take it too seriously or quibble about the sad sex scenes, where they penetrate each other with anything and everything except anywhere near the butt, because apparently we can fuck each other in the sides with knives, but a dick to the ass is just too much.
...it's reviews like these that make me wish I didn't know people irl on this website.
"Hurt people, hurt people."
-Jonathan, probably
July 12, 2024
This book was insanely twisted and definitely unique. The premise promises suspense, and it delivers.
3.5 stars rounded up for Goodreads
Eva and Jonathan are both contract killers who have met before. When Eva gets hired to take out Jonathan, things get complicated. Which…complicated is an understatement.
I would recommend this book if you’re looking for: cringe, a ??? feeling, unsure who to trust
Thank you to the publisher for the gifted copy
3.5 stars rounded up for Goodreads
Eva and Jonathan are both contract killers who have met before. When Eva gets hired to take out Jonathan, things get complicated. Which…complicated is an understatement.
I would recommend this book if you’re looking for: cringe, a ??? feeling, unsure who to trust
Thank you to the publisher for the gifted copy
August 17, 2024
3.5 stars !
Wow .... This was a blast. John wick meets Mr. and Mrs. Smith, with steamy tension and spice. The characters were unhinged in the best way possible. Both Eva and Jonathan were a hoot. There were times like I felt that the story was lagging a bit, but the chapters were short so that was quite alright.
Wow .... This was a blast. John wick meets Mr. and Mrs. Smith, with steamy tension and spice. The characters were unhinged in the best way possible. Both Eva and Jonathan were a hoot. There were times like I felt that the story was lagging a bit, but the chapters were short so that was quite alright.
February 27, 2025
I had so much fun with this. I might have more to say later, but until then… 4.5 Stars rounded up!
October 26, 2024
They meet on a train and their next kill orders are for each other for romance assassin-style! Eliza Jane Brazier is an altogether new to me author who brings my favorite things about light spy and assassin thrillers- glamorous locales, lush travels, sexy encounters, and the humor- lord, yes, the humor, dark though it is.
It Had to Be You is a romantic comedy mixed with suspense that keeps it light on the assassin end of things. Two people who, due to their careers and early lives, are actually awkward about peopling and this is obvious from their first encounter on a night train to Paris. They both have pasts and think they are damaged goods and emotionally armor up by believing that crazy is their normal. One encounter and they realize that they have found the one person in the world who is like them and understands them well. Eva and Jonathan think that’s it and they’ll never see each other again after that memorable meeting. Fast forward six months and they are on each other’s agendas for kill targets. Between ducking and dodging, falling in love, and figuring out who put them as each other’s marks, the book moves along at a goodly pace.
Now, I had a good time and I can’t deny that this was a fast read for me, but I did run into issues. I liked Eva and Jonathan even when killing each other was still a thing and the crazy careening across Europe and over the top antics, but at the same time, the craziness they exhibited and tons of wild sex got tedious for me. I was enjoying it and then I wasn’t and needed a break for a bit like getting too much of a favorite candy causing a tummy ache. That said, it is what it is and it wasn’t trying to be a true thriller so this was just me hitting my threshold and others will do just fine. I felt badly for them. They both had gone the unhealthy route in reaction to their pasts and Jonathan was ready to hit the panic button he was so fearful of a real relationship while Eva showed her steel and was ready to change everything to have a chance at happy. The climax and short little epilogue were a great finish.
Side note, this is a very quotable book and I cracked up over all the one-liners this pair thought and said. On the subject of dating: “It might seem deranged that I can break bread with the murderer who I’m about to murder, but the truth is, I do stuff like this all the time…He wants the girlfriend experience, so that’s what I’ll give him. We’ll eat and we’ll contemplate all the ways that we can kill each other, just like a normal couple.” p. 188
So, if you’re looking for steamy dark romantic comedy and a killer good time, don’t miss It Had to Be You.
I rec'd a finished print via Berkley to read in exchange for an honest review.
My full review will post at Caffeinated Reviewer 10.16.24.
It Had to Be You is a romantic comedy mixed with suspense that keeps it light on the assassin end of things. Two people who, due to their careers and early lives, are actually awkward about peopling and this is obvious from their first encounter on a night train to Paris. They both have pasts and think they are damaged goods and emotionally armor up by believing that crazy is their normal. One encounter and they realize that they have found the one person in the world who is like them and understands them well. Eva and Jonathan think that’s it and they’ll never see each other again after that memorable meeting. Fast forward six months and they are on each other’s agendas for kill targets. Between ducking and dodging, falling in love, and figuring out who put them as each other’s marks, the book moves along at a goodly pace.
Now, I had a good time and I can’t deny that this was a fast read for me, but I did run into issues. I liked Eva and Jonathan even when killing each other was still a thing and the crazy careening across Europe and over the top antics, but at the same time, the craziness they exhibited and tons of wild sex got tedious for me. I was enjoying it and then I wasn’t and needed a break for a bit like getting too much of a favorite candy causing a tummy ache. That said, it is what it is and it wasn’t trying to be a true thriller so this was just me hitting my threshold and others will do just fine. I felt badly for them. They both had gone the unhealthy route in reaction to their pasts and Jonathan was ready to hit the panic button he was so fearful of a real relationship while Eva showed her steel and was ready to change everything to have a chance at happy. The climax and short little epilogue were a great finish.
Side note, this is a very quotable book and I cracked up over all the one-liners this pair thought and said. On the subject of dating: “It might seem deranged that I can break bread with the murderer who I’m about to murder, but the truth is, I do stuff like this all the time…He wants the girlfriend experience, so that’s what I’ll give him. We’ll eat and we’ll contemplate all the ways that we can kill each other, just like a normal couple.” p. 188
So, if you’re looking for steamy dark romantic comedy and a killer good time, don’t miss It Had to Be You.
I rec'd a finished print via Berkley to read in exchange for an honest review.
My full review will post at Caffeinated Reviewer 10.16.24.
December 21, 2024
Wow wow wow wow wow! 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥 This book might have ruined all romance novels for me. No, scratch that, it has ruined romance for me.
The chemistry is electrifying and seriously off the charts! Lovable leads, witty banter, fantastic dark humour, exciting action scenes, page-turning suspense and razor-sharp feminist commentary – this novel has it all. I was taken since the very first page and found myself unable to put it down.
What an intensely fun ride!!!
I've been wanting to read Eliza Jane Brazier for ages, but never thought this would be my first instead of her other thrillers or that I would be so in love. More please!!!
Favourite quotes:
✨ "Fuck. I am going to die, and it is going to feel so fucking good."
✨ "There is no place in this world for a woman who sins."
✨ "You know, women are just better at hiding how fucked-up they are. We have to be. Men can act unhinged and people think they're troubled and romantic. Mean-while, a messy woman is always-always-ostracized by society."
✨ "We are all liars in love's war, but it still hurts to hear the truth."
✨ "Love is like death in a way. It comes and it catches you by surprise, and it hurts and it hurts and you cannot control it."
👩🏻 cherreading mood: So darn awesome that I binged most of this on a hard, stiff chair in my living room till late. It really is THAT good.
The chemistry is electrifying and seriously off the charts! Lovable leads, witty banter, fantastic dark humour, exciting action scenes, page-turning suspense and razor-sharp feminist commentary – this novel has it all. I was taken since the very first page and found myself unable to put it down.
What an intensely fun ride!!!
I've been wanting to read Eliza Jane Brazier for ages, but never thought this would be my first instead of her other thrillers or that I would be so in love. More please!!!
Favourite quotes:
✨ "Fuck. I am going to die, and it is going to feel so fucking good."
✨ "There is no place in this world for a woman who sins."
✨ "You know, women are just better at hiding how fucked-up they are. We have to be. Men can act unhinged and people think they're troubled and romantic. Mean-while, a messy woman is always-always-ostracized by society."
✨ "We are all liars in love's war, but it still hurts to hear the truth."
✨ "Love is like death in a way. It comes and it catches you by surprise, and it hurts and it hurts and you cannot control it."
👩🏻 cherreading mood: So darn awesome that I binged most of this on a hard, stiff chair in my living room till late. It really is THAT good.
October 13, 2024
This is why you should never judge a book by its cover!😡
As pretty as the name or cover suggests this book was just disappointing to the max. First of all, let's be real they kill people for a living, yes I know I read this knowing that but, i was expecting more mission impossible and John wick kinda vibe, and boy that's where I was wrong. If you liked Butcher & Blackbird this is for you.
Secondly, i hate insta love so ew no, disgusting. IT IS NOT A ROMANCE BOOK IF THEY JUST GONNA HAVE SEX BEFORE THEY EVEN KNOW EACH OTHER?! And it wasn't even in a hot way...
that's where I lost it.The book had short chapters and I guess that was a good thing but I felt like the author missed the mark and got confused about what she was writing.
She really did have a good idea, but i feel like she really needs to move on from the cliche stories and make it more engaging.
As pretty as the name or cover suggests this book was just disappointing to the max. First of all, let's be real they kill people for a living, yes I know I read this knowing that but, i was expecting more mission impossible and John wick kinda vibe, and boy that's where I was wrong. If you liked Butcher & Blackbird this is for you.
Secondly, i hate insta love so ew no, disgusting. IT IS NOT A ROMANCE BOOK IF THEY JUST GONNA HAVE SEX BEFORE THEY EVEN KNOW EACH OTHER?! And it wasn't even in a hot way...
that's where I lost it.The book had short chapters and I guess that was a good thing but I felt like the author missed the mark and got confused about what she was writing.
She really did have a good idea, but i feel like she really needs to move on from the cliche stories and make it more engaging.
January 19, 2025
4+/5 ⭐️, 1.5/5 🌶️, 0/5 💧
🗡️ Strong FMC
🗡️ Romantic Thriller
🗡️ Dual POV
🗡️ Dry, Sarcastic Humor
I really enjoyed this one. Jonathan the MMC was described in such an endearing way that I was completely smitten with him.
These two contract killers that fall in love had depth and I loved learning more about both of them.
I enjoyed the social commentary about women in the workforce especially that was slipped into the story in a very nonchalant way. In contrast, I loved how strong the FMC was in this story.
It was peppered with really dry humor that I very much enjoyed. I wished a bit for a slightly more robust and satisfying ending, but it was also perfect the way that it was.
I can see how the dry writing style can be not as captivating, so it took me a bit longer to finish this book (it wasn’t one that kept me up at night) but it was fun and entertaining while I read it. Sometimes a bit predictable but, if you’re looking for something a little different with a Mr & Mrs Smith vibes, this is a great one to read!
🗡️ Strong FMC
🗡️ Romantic Thriller
🗡️ Dual POV
🗡️ Dry, Sarcastic Humor
I really enjoyed this one. Jonathan the MMC was described in such an endearing way that I was completely smitten with him.
These two contract killers that fall in love had depth and I loved learning more about both of them.
I enjoyed the social commentary about women in the workforce especially that was slipped into the story in a very nonchalant way. In contrast, I loved how strong the FMC was in this story.
It was peppered with really dry humor that I very much enjoyed. I wished a bit for a slightly more robust and satisfying ending, but it was also perfect the way that it was.
I can see how the dry writing style can be not as captivating, so it took me a bit longer to finish this book (it wasn’t one that kept me up at night) but it was fun and entertaining while I read it. Sometimes a bit predictable but, if you’re looking for something a little different with a Mr & Mrs Smith vibes, this is a great one to read!
October 8, 2024
Ok, ok. This book is probably a 4. BUT. I do not enjoy mystery/thriller/drama novels. And I loved this book. The twists were twisty. The characters were sarcastic. The banter was comical. This book was the embodiment of Mr. And Mrs. Smith that was fast paced and very easy to get through. So fine, a 5 it is.
August 18, 2024
3.25 stars ★
January 21, 2025
Very fun. Like if the Jason Bourne movies were a spicy rom-com.
A few twists were nonsensical or relied on the characters making stupid decisions. A few things felt melodramatic or cringey (way too much fencing, for example). And the ultimate villain was poorly done.
BUT. This is one of few romances (maybe the only?) where I thought the dual POV added to the story. We were fed information in a way that developed tension and dramatic irony. Both leads were interesting: they were likable but not good people, and they met the brief of being assassins—they were willing to kill (a lot of) people.
I really can't complain.
A few twists were nonsensical or relied on the characters making stupid decisions. A few things felt melodramatic or cringey (way too much fencing, for example). And the ultimate villain was poorly done.
BUT. This is one of few romances (maybe the only?) where I thought the dual POV added to the story. We were fed information in a way that developed tension and dramatic irony. Both leads were interesting: they were likable but not good people, and they met the brief of being assassins—they were willing to kill (a lot of) people.
I really can't complain.
October 30, 2024
⭐⭐⭐⭒
Two assassins-for-hire fall in love while also trying to kill each other to fulfill their contract order. Not my typical fare, but I did find it quite fun and engaging, if not a little overstimulating at times with its rapid jet-setting pace and life-and-death escapades. I think this book works best for readers who can just go with it all - unsympathetic main characters with lots of psychological damage and a high body count - but lots of wit, style, and laughs too in what is essentially a modern rom-com of two people meant to be together. The book is sort of divided between the courtship stage of Eva and Jonathan, two spies who don't know the other is also a killer, the antagonist stage where they discover the truth and try to kill each other (sort of), and the romance stage where there's a partnership as they work together to uncover who is suddenly hunting them.
This is a Mr. and Mrs. Smith take with plenty of style and humor. I really did have fun and I laughed a lot. I could fill a bulletin board with the deadpan jokes from both of them, and I was so there for the macabre humor. Jonathan is head over heels in love with Eva from the first chapter, which is reassuring during the middle of the book when they actually do pit their sharp thinking and undoubtedly impressive assassination skills at each other. If I didn't know in advance that this book was securely within the romance genre, I'm not sure the reading experience would have worked well for me. There are also a few unexpected surprises from secondary characters that I enjoyed.
I have a couple of small criticisms that detracted a little, including the moments when the characters become mired in moping about their childhood traumas, or the confusing attempts to explain why both at times feel unable to leave the instability behind and commit to a positive life. At times the author seems to want us to accept these larger-than-life characters for who they are, but then at others, she seems to want us to sympathize with their victimization and understand their desire to kill other humans. I found the book worked best as a silly fantasy romance between two unabashed killers, and the maudlin focus on their personal traumas a distraction. I also was not sure how the author would wrap up this zany story, and though for the most part she does so satisfactorily, there are still some questions on the table about their future lives.
Two assassins-for-hire fall in love while also trying to kill each other to fulfill their contract order. Not my typical fare, but I did find it quite fun and engaging, if not a little overstimulating at times with its rapid jet-setting pace and life-and-death escapades. I think this book works best for readers who can just go with it all - unsympathetic main characters with lots of psychological damage and a high body count - but lots of wit, style, and laughs too in what is essentially a modern rom-com of two people meant to be together. The book is sort of divided between the courtship stage of Eva and Jonathan, two spies who don't know the other is also a killer, the antagonist stage where they discover the truth and try to kill each other (sort of), and the romance stage where there's a partnership as they work together to uncover who is suddenly hunting them.
This is a Mr. and Mrs. Smith take with plenty of style and humor. I really did have fun and I laughed a lot. I could fill a bulletin board with the deadpan jokes from both of them, and I was so there for the macabre humor. Jonathan is head over heels in love with Eva from the first chapter, which is reassuring during the middle of the book when they actually do pit their sharp thinking and undoubtedly impressive assassination skills at each other. If I didn't know in advance that this book was securely within the romance genre, I'm not sure the reading experience would have worked well for me. There are also a few unexpected surprises from secondary characters that I enjoyed.
I have a couple of small criticisms that detracted a little, including the moments when the characters become mired in moping about their childhood traumas, or the confusing attempts to explain why both at times feel unable to leave the instability behind and commit to a positive life. At times the author seems to want us to accept these larger-than-life characters for who they are, but then at others, she seems to want us to sympathize with their victimization and understand their desire to kill other humans. I found the book worked best as a silly fantasy romance between two unabashed killers, and the maudlin focus on their personal traumas a distraction. I also was not sure how the author would wrap up this zany story, and though for the most part she does so satisfactorily, there are still some questions on the table about their future lives.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 565 reviews