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Miles & Kieran #1

My Ex's New Boyfriend is a Murderer

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Dive into Book 1 of a thrilling MM romance series following an unlucky wannabe singer and a world-famous actor who decide to pose as boyfriends and end up on a rollercoaster adventure of crime and mayhem. This book is the beginning of a story full of false impressions, slow burn, and sizzling tension.

Author's note: This is Book 1 in a series of five books about Miles & Kieran. There will be three novels and two novellas in this series. My Fake Boyfriend Christmas novella is already live on Amazon.

Miles Rivera is the biggest loser in the world. Who else can get dumped twice, lose his job, and end up living on his best friend's couch? And when her brother shows up on the porch, Miles is officially, royally screwed.

Kieran Callahan is everything Miles is not: a famous actor all over the tabloids. Tall, gorgeous, with razor-sharp cheekbones, bottomless blue eyes, and a muscular body that turns heads everywhere he goes. Kieran Callahan is also straight. At least, Miles thinks he is. Having him wandering shirtless around the house is a distraction Miles can't afford while figuring out how to get his life back together.

The cherry on top of that cake? Miles' ex announces a sudden engagement to his new boyfriend and invites Miles over to their house for a weekend-long celebration.

Taking pity on Miles, Kieran suggests posing as his boyfriend. But the whole thing gets quickly out of hand. The public displays of affection are getting not-so-public. Their looks, kisses, and touches don't feel so fake anymore. The lines start blurring. Or is Miles imagining things?

As he tries to navigate his feelings for Kieran, something else is going on in the house, something dark and sinister.
A sudden realization dawns on Miles, which he is horrified to say out loud.

He thinks his ex's new boyfriend is a murderer...

248 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 1, 2023

42 people are currently reading
286 people want to read

About the author

Gaia Tate

26 books122 followers

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5 stars
44 (25%)
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52 (30%)
3 stars
57 (32%)
2 stars
15 (8%)
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5 (2%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
Profile Image for ♡ cal ♡.
759 reviews340 followers
November 8, 2023
the idea behind this book was great but the way it was executed? not so much. i wish i could say that i was disappointed... ok maybe a little bit. i mean how can you fuck up a storyline with fake dating, dating your best friend's older straight brother, and a loose killer in a engagement party?! the writing felt meh overall. imagining ben batchelor as keiran is the only saving grace.
Profile Image for Tony.
243 reviews8 followers
October 6, 2025
I saw this book had mixed reviews going into this. I personally loved it. Miles and Kieran together with that slow burn tension that I hope blossoms in the future books. The suspense and thriller action of them working things out this book was well written and I enjoyed every minute of it
Profile Image for Shelba.
2,693 reviews99 followers
November 3, 2023
DNF @ 12%

The cover for this caught my eye and I liked the title. I gave the blurb a try, but the Amazon review, which differs from the GR review, is pretty confusing… so I figured I’d give this a go regardless and screw the blurb.

Now, in general, I don’t like fake dating as a trope. But there are always exceptions. This isn’t going to be one of them.

Ethan is a “douchebag” and a “jerk”. He broke up with Miles after Miles proposed, because Ethan was “not a marriage material and will never marry”. Miles and Ethan have barely seen each other in the year since they broke up. But since this douchebag jerk is inviting you to his engagement party, you better drop everything and accept the last minute invite.

Honestly, I don’t want to go to the wedding events of people I actually like, so I can’t understand why Miles would want to go to his douchebag jerk ex “not marriage material” ex’s celebration of his impending marriage. As far as setups for fake dating goes, that’s pretty week. Tell Ethan you’re going to be busy painting your toe nails that day and block his number.

But showing up to the engagement party of the guy who didn’t want to marry you with the plus one you were told you could bring sure will show him.

But then, when they arrive at the party, one of the first things out of Keiran’s mouth is telling Ethan and his fiancé (a doctor) that Miles also loves being called doctor and all kinds of roleplay. 😬 What an odd thing to say out of the blue. If that’s the “com” part of the “romcom”, I don’t want it.

There is also the very minor inconsistency of Miles sleeping on the couch, having turned down the guest room, but when Kieran shows up, Miles mentions going to his room. What room? Is a couch a room?

Profile Image for marelouise.
19 reviews6 followers
December 2, 2023
absolutely loved this book, great story. Love the relationships.
I was worried this book would be poorly written and crungey like a lot of MM romance books that I have read lately. I am so happy that I was wrong.
I can't wait for book two. I need to see what happens with miles and kieran.
Profile Image for Gaby.
1,334 reviews149 followers
September 15, 2025
This felt like an intro to what could be. It was fun and quirky, and the thriller was not too bad. I’ll definitely be continuing this. I want to see how their relationship goes from fake to real.
2 reviews1 follower
November 3, 2023
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

This book is really what I needed to binge on during a cold November evening: it made me feel all warm and cozy and brought butterflies to my stomach. I loved the main character, Miles, and how quickly you start rooting for him. And I looooved his chemistry with Kieran, which is slow-burn but at the same time hot as hell.

I also really loved the angle on the 'fake boyfriend' trope and the way the thriller elements intertwined with silly rom-com moments (don't want to spoil it, but like the ones with the pool and the office search :D). Oh, and loved the creepiness, too (OMG, THE MIRROR).

I hope this is not the only book about these two, because I need more of Miles/Kieran in my life!
Profile Image for Mystic DreamClouds.
520 reviews12 followers
March 3, 2025
I thoroughly enjoyed this book although the mystery element was non-existent because it was revealed in the title itself. I enjoyed this book for the slow burn romance and realistic representation between two childhood acquaintances pretending to be boyfriends for two days. Although this series is spread across multiple books, the events happen in short time frames, so the relationship progresses slowly.

Miles Rivera is the type of character that most will easily love and cheer for. I don’t know what it is about him but I love his caring and curious personality the most. He’s also very clear in where he stands which makes him all the more lovable because there isn’t room for confusion, except miscommunication.

Kieran is the typical hot male character that every other character in this book loves and gets comfortable around. I liked him but I didn’t like how he allowed others to flirt with him so freely, while he was Miles’ “boyfriend”. It’s evident in the story he’s unsure about his feelings with Miles and what they mean to him. Kieran has known Miles’ as his sister’s best friend for most of his life, so it’s understandable the short weekend interaction wouldn’t have been enough for his perspective to change.

That said, the main aspect of this story is the ex’s new boyfriend. The mystery is a giveaway from the title and the story doesn’t try to make it any more complex. So, the mystery aspect isn’t the highlight or strength of this book. However, I liked how the story allows the characters to put together the clues they find. Their reactions are honest and sometimes embarrassing, but it doesn’t feel awkward or misplaced. Honestly speaking, it was refreshing to read about characters who weren’t long lost descendants of Sherlock Holmes (yes, I’m being sarcastic).

A mini disclaimer of sorts. This book mentions child abuse; childhood torture and death; mistreatment of bodies; hidden passages; and concealment of criminals.

Overall, I enjoyed this story and am looking forward to reading the next installment. The ending left me feeling proud of Miles’ maturity but also sad because Miles and Kieran needed to sit down and have a talk. I’m interested to seeing how their relationship changes with all the intense emotions they had surrounding them.

Read more reviews @ Mystic's Review Shelf
Profile Image for jæ_cœb.
142 reviews4 followers
June 27, 2025
3/5⭐️
For a novella this wasn’t bad. Personally I would have preferred a full length book seeing as it was a mystery. I feel like it was very rushed and not as climatic with how short it was. The characters however were likable and it was a quick and easy read.
Profile Image for DLB2572.
3,248 reviews26 followers
November 17, 2023
On the Fence

So I am really on the fence about this one. I was totally attracted to this one due to the premise but there were several things in this that took away from the story for me. I did like the overall story and I am willing to read book two.

I received an ARC and this is my unbiased opinion
Profile Image for Chelle.
99 reviews5 followers
December 17, 2023
What a wild ride! This book is absolutely absurd in the best ways. I can't wait for more! The writing is not the greatest, but the plot is so entertaining.
Profile Image for Mia.
80 reviews
November 11, 2024
Dnf 10%

Can already tell this book needs a thorough edit.
Profile Image for Ellie (On a break, mostly rereading).
797 reviews17 followers
November 13, 2023
My Ex's New Boyfriend is a Murderer is the first book in Gaia Tate's series Kieran and Miles. Seeing the series name, I knew that this was a series that I needed to be in on from the beginning. If for no other reason than it seemed inevitable there would be some sort of cliff hanger or unresolved plotlines that would roll into the next book of the series.

The story is set up with a broken hearted Miles whose relationship has ended, along with his job, when another ex invites him for the weekend celebration for the man's engagement. Then enters Miles' secret crush, totally hot and built movie star and his best friends older brother, Kieran. Being an actor, Kieran seems more than keen to play the part of fake boyfriend, in fact he throws himself into the role.

When they go away to the, frankly, strangely creepy estate owned by a man who insists to be called by his title, Doctor Grace. Miles' ex, Ethan, doesn't seem totally aware that things are weird. But almost straight away Kieran and Miles knew that something is hinky with Doctor Grace and his family's estate.

There is definitely sparks of attraction and chemistry, seemingly from both sides, despite the fact that this is an act. Miles may be an awesome singer, and Kieran a swoon worthy actor, but as an a quirky investigative team and friends they work so well. While there is danger and drama, there are also so many laugh out loud moments.

Can't wait to see what happens next.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Fredicka.
364 reviews2 followers
December 16, 2023
Plot/ Idea: 10 out of 10
Execution: 1 out of 10
Well, that was devastating bad. I really wanted to like this book. The plot sounded interesting, and the plot turned out to be interesting. The problem is the writing was horrible. Might’ve been one of the worst books I’ve ever read as far as writing goes. At times, it felt like I was reading the outline to what could’ve been a really good book. It was stilted, and at times it was kind of uncomfortable to read. I feel bad saying this, because the author is obviously very creative, and probably has some other really good story ideas. Unfortunately, they just don’t have the writing skills to execute them. At least not at this time.
I hope this doesn’t discourage the author in there writing journey. Because, as I said, the plot in the idea behind the book was really original, and I would like to see more from them. I just hope they’re writing style gets better along the way.
Profile Image for Akemi.
23 reviews
February 1, 2025
I actually read the "1.5" book that's a Christmas story first bc I thought it was fake bf for Christmas and spent the whole time thinking oh this feels like they are telling me about the story of the interesting weekend they had, so I decided to read the "interesting weekend" and we'll book was mid and quite honestly nor Miles nor the actor guy can carry the story by themselves, also it enrage me the lack of survival instinct idk if is my social status speaking or maybe the place I life but if I go to ANY PLACE and it has a 2 way mirror I'm fucking the hell out of there no questions asked, I'll tell my friend and if they wanna die like that don't be with me also is your ex the one who rejected your marriage proposal I can't believe you care enough to put in risk your well-being and your crush guy life, but in the lines of Miles being two steps away from a saint I said man CALL THE POLICE not your fake boyfriend at least police always answer 🤦🏼‍♀️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
4,855 reviews18 followers
November 22, 2023
FANTASTIC! Until I realized it is kind of a cliff hanger, sad face. Story is riveting, entertaining, sweet, fun, funny and all around great. Miles is on a downward streak, dumped by two boyfriends. Then his last facilitates him getting fired. Then the previous one, Ethan invites Miles to his engagement part. His best friend, Chloe's brother, Kieran a famous rom com actor volunteers to be his plus 1 boyfriend. Once they are at Ethan's and Dr Grace's house they feel a few things don't add up. I spent a lot of time exclaiming don't go there, don't say that and what are you doing? Absolutely engaged in the mystery and the amateur sleuths. Fun story, on of my funnest mysteries, EVER! Well done! I look forward to the next book, I just hope it's not too long. I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Grecia  Grady-Garret .
70 reviews
February 28, 2025
Me encanta. Amo a Kieran es todo lo qué está bien en está vida.
Ahora, Miles? Necesita urgente un psicologo, siento que está a una de entrar en una depresión horrible (si es qué no lo esta ya). Hay momentos donde no quiere hacer nada y solo se queda viendo y ni si quiera desea unirse, solo está ahí, existiendo y me da pena.
Me gusta qué este libro no es enteramente romance, sino qué se enfoca en el misterio.
Por otro lado, que demonios le pasa a Ethan? Es un idiota, su prometido le acaba de apuntar con un arma y él lo excusa diciendo que es el estres y todo el tiempo se la pasa diciendo que Miles está celoso. O sea, en qué universo?
Me hubiera gustado ver más la historia de la tía Grace. Pero bueno. Todavia hay tres o dos libros más. AMOOO
PD: Gaia, saca más libros porfa, aun no acabo los que tienes, pero aun así. Eres la unica a la qué puedo leer en ingles
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for casvec.
7,458 reviews75 followers
June 25, 2024
This is the start of Miles and Keiran's journey as they not only discovery themselves but also finding love.

Miles is best friends with Keiran's sister and has had a crush on Keiran, but Keiran is everything Miles is not - successful, built and straight. When Miles life crashes down around him, Keiran is there to help out.

This was a fun and interesting story as Kieran offers to go to Miles' ex engagement party as his boyfriend. When the get to his ex's house, Miles and Kieran realize things seem a bit off and boy is it.

A simple weekend takes twist and turns that leave them facing death and danger but also leave them questioning their hearts.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for I Eat  Books.
3 reviews
April 3, 2025
The way i immediately created an account just to rate this

Firstly, AHHHHHHHH I LOVE THEIR DYNAMIC SOO FREAKIN MUCHHHHH!! I fr didn't have any expectations when i started this BUT whatttt?? This was fr my comfort book bro
I honestly don't know why but i was soo invested in thisss, i have literally told everyone i know about this book (when i mean everyone, i literally mean that)
And when i found out this had a sequel AHHHHHHH
I IMMEDIATELY GOT IT!!!
*Clears throat*
Secondly, the book cover isn't doing them justiceeee rahhhhhhhh (you should expect fanart from me soon hehe)
And thirdly, i love Kieran and miles with my LIFEEE, if they don't end up together i would literally jump of a bridge (mentally lol)
Thank you
210 reviews
November 10, 2025
This book ends on a cliffhanger for the relationship...or pre-relationship... Ok, it seems fairly obvious that Kieran likes Miles. They made out a couple times in this book, but no further, and they didn't discuss anything about their feelings at all. Granted, there was very little time - the entire book takes place over the course of like, 2 days, and a decent portion of that time was discovering and then escaping a murderer. So too much relationship development wouldn't have worked either.

As ridiculous as this book was, I'm actually kinda looking forward to reading more of the series. I thought the premise was pretty interesting.

You might enjoy this if you like campy slasher movies. As long as you know you can't take it seriously at all, this is kind of a fun book.

One thing that kept throwing me was that the story is 3rd person, single POV, present tense. It felt like a very awkward way to tell a story.
Profile Image for audiobook_chaos.
2,044 reviews38 followers
November 5, 2023
Fake Boyfriend

When Miles is invited to go to his ex’s engagement he refuses until his best friends brother actor Kieran Callahan says he’ll go as his fake boyfriend . What they don’t expect is to find secrets in the house and clues that add up to Ethan’s fiancé not being who he says he is .
Profile Image for Cynthia Brooks.
2,336 reviews11 followers
June 15, 2024
Miles gets invited to his ex's engagement weekend. Miles doesn't want to go but can't get out of it. His best friend's brother, Kieran, offers to go as his fake boyfriend. When they get there things don't seem right and Miles knows there something off about his ex's fiance. I really enjoyed this book.
Profile Image for lay ˏˋ°•*⁀➷.
51 reviews1 follower
October 3, 2024
this book has waisted potential, not disappointed tho, the writing it’s actually so difficult to read, but i guess it’s a good debut for the author.

please, ethan, why? WHY?

then i loved kieran and miles ‘relationship’ but i didn’t like the way the book ended, i know is a trilogy/saga, but still.

3/5 stars.
Profile Image for Saskia Veldhuis .
1,898 reviews15 followers
November 19, 2023
2.5 stars. Some good ideas and readable but wasn't really a book for me. It felt like a romcom without real comedy. Kieran was the highlight.
I received a complimentary copy of this book via Booksprout and am leaving a voluntary review.
Profile Image for Alyss Anderson.
Author 5 books14 followers
December 4, 2023
Quick little read

It was a very enjoyable read. Way better than reading a milk carton. Looking forward to the adventures in store for Miles and Kieran in the upcoming books.
6 reviews
December 13, 2024
I liked this book and the others in this series. The only negative thing is the completion of the series is not on KU. That is a negative for those of us who are on a very limited income. It makes me sorry I started the books as I hate not having a happy ending.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews

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