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Deadline for Love
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280 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 31, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
July 12, 2024
This story helped me out of my slump. After a difficult period, i struggled to find the motivation to create. Finally, after six months, i was inspired to write DEADLINE FOR LOVE. Bella and Nathan's story didn't get out of my head and i had so much fun writing it. And i hope you'll enjoy it too!
Book tropes: Fake marriage, tension build up, romantic suspense, one bed, he fell first and she fell harder, mystery, acting as her bodyguard, spicy, no ow drama
Book tropes: Fake marriage, tension build up, romantic suspense, one bed, he fell first and she fell harder, mystery, acting as her bodyguard, spicy, no ow drama
August 10, 2024
This is a murder mystery and I bet your ass could never guess who’s the culprit!!!! Now add a hint (or bucket) of romance and you have the recipe for the perfect murder mystery x romance novel.
Tropes :
•he fell first
•she fell harder
•marriage of convenience/ fake marriage
•one bed trope 🤭
•revenge
•acting as her bodyguard
•no cheating/ ow drama
•suspense
Now can we have a moment to speak about Nathan Blake because this man makes me kick my feet in the air!?!?!?😭😭😭
“He held the book close, and his eyes lingered on the page where I was at the time. A moment passed, and then he broke the silence. “So, my dear wife loves to read about sex.” My face flushed after his statement, which put a mischievous grin on his face. “I wondered why you weren’t paying attention to me.” I snatched the book from his hand and pressed it against my chest to protect it from his gaze. “It’s not just about s3x, it’s about how the man doesn’t see her as an object but worships her and shares his feelings with her,” I hissed. “Besides, there’s a deeper plot.” Nathan tilted his head, and his smile faded. “I can do better than books.” ”
Why is this man fictional again?????
Tropes :
•he fell first
•she fell harder
•marriage of convenience/ fake marriage
•one bed trope 🤭
•revenge
•acting as her bodyguard
•no cheating/ ow drama
•suspense
Now can we have a moment to speak about Nathan Blake because this man makes me kick my feet in the air!?!?!?😭😭😭
“He held the book close, and his eyes lingered on the page where I was at the time. A moment passed, and then he broke the silence. “So, my dear wife loves to read about sex.” My face flushed after his statement, which put a mischievous grin on his face. “I wondered why you weren’t paying attention to me.” I snatched the book from his hand and pressed it against my chest to protect it from his gaze. “It’s not just about s3x, it’s about how the man doesn’t see her as an object but worships her and shares his feelings with her,” I hissed. “Besides, there’s a deeper plot.” Nathan tilted his head, and his smile faded. “I can do better than books.” ”
Why is this man fictional again?????
July 21, 2024
This was my first Akaku Red book and I can confidently say that I loved it.
From the moment the murder mystery was introduced, I was hooked. The author had me doubting basically every single character. While I was pretty positive I knew who the unaliver was, I never expected the plot twist 😱
As Bella (FMC) was attempting to solve the murder mystery, she was getting swept off her feet by the oh so charming Nathan Blake 😍 I loved how Nathan always respected Bella’s boundaries and never pushed her to do anything that she’s didn’t feel comfortable doing. He truly was the sweetest.
I only would have wished for some more groveling towards the end. I wanted him begging on his hands and knees 😂 Nonetheless, I’m glad that they got their happily ever after in the end 😊 I also really hope that ending means another book 👀🤞🏼
Thank you so much Akaku for sending me an ARC of this book 🫶
From the moment the murder mystery was introduced, I was hooked. The author had me doubting basically every single character. While I was pretty positive I knew who the unaliver was, I never expected the plot twist 😱
As Bella (FMC) was attempting to solve the murder mystery, she was getting swept off her feet by the oh so charming Nathan Blake 😍 I loved how Nathan always respected Bella’s boundaries and never pushed her to do anything that she’s didn’t feel comfortable doing. He truly was the sweetest.
I only would have wished for some more groveling towards the end. I wanted him begging on his hands and knees 😂 Nonetheless, I’m glad that they got their happily ever after in the end 😊 I also really hope that ending means another book 👀🤞🏼
Thank you so much Akaku for sending me an ARC of this book 🫶
September 24, 2024
So, for first,I want to thank the author for this opportunity. Thank you, sweet girl!💕 She's an amazing author and I am so glad I discovered her because I don't know what I would do now without this book! 🥹 So so proud of you!
And second, this book was awesome. It was my first thriller book I ever read and really, I got scared, like hell no, it gave me chills on my spine 😟 The plot?! OH MY GOD! The characters?! FRICKING CRAZY! I love Bella and Nathan so much 😭 Bella is so strong for what she had to endure and Nathan?! He's just so perfect, I loved the dinamic between them, I loved this strangers to friends(but more) to arranged marriage and then to lovers🫶🏼 I cried so much at the end and it was damn 3 am 😭🥲 The spice?! OH YEAHHH 🌶️🌶️🌶️ And now....my fav quotes:
“Even if I don’t seem like it, I am. I know it's not a good trait, but when that boy held you and kissed you, I really wanted to tear you out of his arms. "
“I’m sorry for upsetting you. But I’m not sorry for this. I want your undivided attention.”
“Did you just admit you were dreaming about me?. “Yes… and it was one hell of a dream.”
“I took inspiration from your apartment. I want you to feel at home here.”
“I’m sorry; I know you’re trying. But I only genuinely want something like this if it’s real. Seeing you kneeling before me and putting the ring on me doesn’t feel right.” “You’re right. Next time... I’ll do it right.”
Nathan was my light. I hoped that I could give him that light, too.
And second, this book was awesome. It was my first thriller book I ever read and really, I got scared, like hell no, it gave me chills on my spine 😟 The plot?! OH MY GOD! The characters?! FRICKING CRAZY! I love Bella and Nathan so much 😭 Bella is so strong for what she had to endure and Nathan?! He's just so perfect, I loved the dinamic between them, I loved this strangers to friends(but more) to arranged marriage and then to lovers🫶🏼 I cried so much at the end and it was damn 3 am 😭🥲 The spice?! OH YEAHHH 🌶️🌶️🌶️ And now....my fav quotes:
“Even if I don’t seem like it, I am. I know it's not a good trait, but when that boy held you and kissed you, I really wanted to tear you out of his arms. "
“I’m sorry for upsetting you. But I’m not sorry for this. I want your undivided attention.”
“Did you just admit you were dreaming about me?. “Yes… and it was one hell of a dream.”
“I took inspiration from your apartment. I want you to feel at home here.”
“I’m sorry; I know you’re trying. But I only genuinely want something like this if it’s real. Seeing you kneeling before me and putting the ring on me doesn’t feel right.” “You’re right. Next time... I’ll do it right.”
Nathan was my light. I hoped that I could give him that light, too.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 18, 2024
Idk tbh the book was okayish
It felt like I was reading a mix of Dark verse and AGGTM (not in a copy way but like the idea was taken from these books) but w okayish writing skills.
It felt like I was reading a mix of Dark verse and AGGTM (not in a copy way but like the idea was taken from these books) but w okayish writing skills.
July 13, 2024
Just saw my arc reader copy this morning and have already finished it. Devoured in one night because it was so addicting. The MMC is so swoon worthy and the mystery is perfect 👌.
** Message for Author **
I’ll give you a full review via tiktok or email tomorrow as i took notes whilst reading in case you find it useful. xx
** Message for Author **
I’ll give you a full review via tiktok or email tomorrow as i took notes whilst reading in case you find it useful. xx
August 24, 2024
i’m superrrrr late with my review (i have been going through personal things) but my goodness this was so good. I was kept on my toes, I was blushing, kicking my feet, GIGGLING LIKE A LITTLE GIRL.
Nathan is now very high on my book bf list😛. I go CRAZY for a good bodyguard trope, I go CRAZY for a good arranged marriage. You wanna know what this book had? BOTH B.O.T.H I was living the dream.
tropes
~he fell first, she fell harder
~arranged marriage
~acting as her bodyguard
~one bed
also I have to give my praise to Bella. I love a well written strong fmc.
get ready to buckle up for the ride.
Nathan is now very high on my book bf list😛. I go CRAZY for a good bodyguard trope, I go CRAZY for a good arranged marriage. You wanna know what this book had? BOTH B.O.T.H I was living the dream.
tropes
~he fell first, she fell harder
~arranged marriage
~acting as her bodyguard
~one bed
also I have to give my praise to Bella. I love a well written strong fmc.
get ready to buckle up for the ride.
July 21, 2024
Thank you so much Akaku for allowing me to read this arc!
I haven’t read too many thriller romances but I might have to start now because IT WAS SO GOOD. The twists and turns, the jealousy, the obsession. I’m so here for it
I haven’t read too many thriller romances but I might have to start now because IT WAS SO GOOD. The twists and turns, the jealousy, the obsession. I’m so here for it
July 14, 2024
So I received an ARC copy of this book and can I just say wow. For starters, the writing style is very different to anything I've ever read so I did struggle quite a bit in the beginning but the plot of this book - chefs kiss🤌. Akaku Red, my queen, had me doubting every person in this book from the ML to her coworkers. It's crazy and until it got revealed because I had my suspicions but I never actually it would be them. Its mad. All in all, this book has a solid 4⭐️ rating because it had me hooked to the point where I wanted to finish work to read, let alone go home😭.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 27, 2024
thank you so akaku for letting me read this arc 🩷 another amazing read and with all these tropes … i can’t get enough !!
i couldn’t stop reading and just needed to know what happens next. tge plot was absolutely everything i needed to get me out of a slump. this was such a page turner.
murder mystery, suspense, journalist, fake marriage, slow burn, he fell first, she fell harder, ONE BED.
“scream my name.” no because this man, nathan had me kicking my feet and giggling 🤭 i would’ve loved to see his pov in this book but his presence alone had me melting !! he is the absolute sweetest. he was always there for bella and supported her through the work she was doing. he even spent hours driving her around for her job, just to be around her. there was a point where i thought he was the killer but that was just my trust issues coming out to play LOL !!
as for bella, she is such a boss girl 💪🏼 she honestly has inspired me to continue in my journalist era. she’s so hardworking and when she thinks of doing something, she won’t stop until it’s done. bella is a beacon of hope in the way she fights for others with the truth.
okay but that epilogue had me CRYING 😭 it was so beautiful
but WHO THE FUCK IS THIS AMELIA WALKER ????
🌶️🌶️🌶️ (when he talks you through it >>>>)
i couldn’t stop reading and just needed to know what happens next. tge plot was absolutely everything i needed to get me out of a slump. this was such a page turner.
murder mystery, suspense, journalist, fake marriage, slow burn, he fell first, she fell harder, ONE BED.
“scream my name.” no because this man, nathan had me kicking my feet and giggling 🤭 i would’ve loved to see his pov in this book but his presence alone had me melting !! he is the absolute sweetest. he was always there for bella and supported her through the work she was doing. he even spent hours driving her around for her job, just to be around her. there was a point where i thought he was the killer but that was just my trust issues coming out to play LOL !!
as for bella, she is such a boss girl 💪🏼 she honestly has inspired me to continue in my journalist era. she’s so hardworking and when she thinks of doing something, she won’t stop until it’s done. bella is a beacon of hope in the way she fights for others with the truth.
okay but that epilogue had me CRYING 😭 it was so beautiful
but WHO THE FUCK IS THIS AMELIA WALKER ????
🌶️🌶️🌶️ (when he talks you through it >>>>)
July 16, 2024
Akaku Red knows how to write a book!
This book is a cute romance and mystery theme book. I loved the story and how the plot moved!
The romance between Nathan and Bella is INCREDIBLE. I loved every single bit of their interactions, from the very beginning to the end.
Bella is a strong girl. And she worked it. I must say I am kinda jealous that she got Nathan and not me 😂😅
Nathan is a bookboyfriend to remember! He is charming, sweet, respectful, a little mysterious and much more. I loved him and hope to maybe see him in future books? Could be awesome!
Over all is the book well written, I loved the intro with the quote the author always writes to the readers! The chapter fonts were beautiful and creative 🤗The start had suspense and I liked the open opening. Overall a book I would most definitely recommend. It’s a good start for especially beginners and new readers, but it’s also a very good book for the book community in general!
At last I would like to thank the author Akaku Red for choosing me to be one of her arc readers. It’s my first time and I am loving it! I will look forward to future books from her 🤩
This book is a cute romance and mystery theme book. I loved the story and how the plot moved!
The romance between Nathan and Bella is INCREDIBLE. I loved every single bit of their interactions, from the very beginning to the end.
Bella is a strong girl. And she worked it. I must say I am kinda jealous that she got Nathan and not me 😂😅
Nathan is a bookboyfriend to remember! He is charming, sweet, respectful, a little mysterious and much more. I loved him and hope to maybe see him in future books? Could be awesome!
Over all is the book well written, I loved the intro with the quote the author always writes to the readers! The chapter fonts were beautiful and creative 🤗The start had suspense and I liked the open opening. Overall a book I would most definitely recommend. It’s a good start for especially beginners and new readers, but it’s also a very good book for the book community in general!
At last I would like to thank the author Akaku Red for choosing me to be one of her arc readers. It’s my first time and I am loving it! I will look forward to future books from her 🤩
July 26, 2024
I have to give this book five stars it was just that good like I’m sitting over here giggling and kicking my feet at all the romance and clutching my pearls at who the killer could be!!!
This book had everything I loved when it comes to reading it had romance because I’m a heavy romance reader and it had crime and a thriller aspect to it which I loved which had me clinging to each page not wanting to stop reading Akaku really outdid herself with this one!!! Thank you for the ARC!!!
Now I need Amelia walkers story because I need more!!!!
This book had everything I loved when it comes to reading it had romance because I’m a heavy romance reader and it had crime and a thriller aspect to it which I loved which had me clinging to each page not wanting to stop reading Akaku really outdid herself with this one!!! Thank you for the ARC!!!
Now I need Amelia walkers story because I need more!!!!
July 28, 2024
“If we’re in a relationship, we should probably act like it,” he explained.
“But no one’s here to prove anything,” I mumbled.
“You’re here.”
NATHAN BLAKE, THE MAN YOU ARE.
Another amazing read by the incredible Akaku Red. This book was everything I could have hoped for and more. It embodied my all time favorite tropes so so well. A must read for lovers of painful angst, sipping HOT tension, slow burn and build, the intrigue of mystery and suspense all wrapped in a bow of purple and black. I present to you, Deadline for Love by Akaku.
“But no one’s here to prove anything,” I mumbled.
“You’re here.”
NATHAN BLAKE, THE MAN YOU ARE.
Another amazing read by the incredible Akaku Red. This book was everything I could have hoped for and more. It embodied my all time favorite tropes so so well. A must read for lovers of painful angst, sipping HOT tension, slow burn and build, the intrigue of mystery and suspense all wrapped in a bow of purple and black. I present to you, Deadline for Love by Akaku.
Read
August 24, 2024DNF @ 5%
the writing is so bad it's giving wattpad
It's so childish
The idea is good but if it was rewritten in a better style the book would be great
the writing is so bad it's giving wattpad
It's so childish
The idea is good but if it was rewritten in a better style the book would be great
October 30, 2025
2⭐️
So this was… not good.
Bella is a journalist and has been getting creepy poems from a stalker. There’s missing women in her city and when their bodies are found she realises the killer is her stalker because the poems basically describe the crime scene and how he left the bodies.
Meanwhile her best friend Amara and her fiance Justin set Bella up with his friend Nathan and they have a double date. Bella has been hurt before so she initially turns him down when he says he wants to get to know her better but it doesn’t take long for her to decide to give him a chance.
When the notes from the killer become more frequent and she’s in danger her coworker Nia suggests that since the killer is obsessed with her she should fake marry Nathan and it’ll anger the killer and draw him out but also move in with Nathan and he can protect her. The way this was all written and handled came out of the clear blue sky and made no sense whatsoever it was so stupid. It felt like the author suddenly decided she wanted the fake marriage trope so just randomly threw it in there.
At this point I wanted to DNF but none of the other reviews or even Google and chat gpt would tell me who the killer was so I’ll spoil it at the end of this review if anyone wants to know.
So Bella and Nathan start falling for each other for real, he seems shady af sometimes. Turns out his sister was killed 3 years ago and he thinks it’s the same guy so he wants to help catch him and then he wants to kill him.
So killers kidnap Bella, Nathan gets there just before the police because he had a tracker in her wedding ring and there’s a scuffle and he tries to kill the killer but Bella stops him because she wants real justice. Nathan is pissed and lets him live but tells her he doesn’t want to see her again.
Killers are arrested, blah blah blah. Bella goes back to work, is all depressed. Few weeks pass I think and she’s listening to the radio one day and they’re reading a poem at the request of a man who wants to say sorry to his woman. Then Nathan knocks on her door, she opens it, he apologises again and all is forgiven. The end
-Single PoV- the fmcs
-h25, H28
-no OWD at all
-third act breakup with few weeks (I think) separation
-HEA
-epilogue 4 years later happily married and pregnant with their first child
The killers-
So there ended up being 2 killers, it’s Fernando the h’s childhood friend and Julian who works at her local coffee shop. It was the most anticlimactic reveal, so rushed and stupid.
So this was… not good.
Bella is a journalist and has been getting creepy poems from a stalker. There’s missing women in her city and when their bodies are found she realises the killer is her stalker because the poems basically describe the crime scene and how he left the bodies.
Meanwhile her best friend Amara and her fiance Justin set Bella up with his friend Nathan and they have a double date. Bella has been hurt before so she initially turns him down when he says he wants to get to know her better but it doesn’t take long for her to decide to give him a chance.
When the notes from the killer become more frequent and she’s in danger her coworker Nia suggests that since the killer is obsessed with her she should fake marry Nathan and it’ll anger the killer and draw him out but also move in with Nathan and he can protect her. The way this was all written and handled came out of the clear blue sky and made no sense whatsoever it was so stupid. It felt like the author suddenly decided she wanted the fake marriage trope so just randomly threw it in there.
At this point I wanted to DNF but none of the other reviews or even Google and chat gpt would tell me who the killer was so I’ll spoil it at the end of this review if anyone wants to know.
So Bella and Nathan start falling for each other for real, he seems shady af sometimes. Turns out his sister was killed 3 years ago and he thinks it’s the same guy so he wants to help catch him and then he wants to kill him.
So killers kidnap Bella, Nathan gets there just before the police because he had a tracker in her wedding ring and there’s a scuffle and he tries to kill the killer but Bella stops him because she wants real justice. Nathan is pissed and lets him live but tells her he doesn’t want to see her again.
Killers are arrested, blah blah blah. Bella goes back to work, is all depressed. Few weeks pass I think and she’s listening to the radio one day and they’re reading a poem at the request of a man who wants to say sorry to his woman. Then Nathan knocks on her door, she opens it, he apologises again and all is forgiven. The end
-Single PoV- the fmcs
-h25, H28
-no OWD at all
-third act breakup with few weeks (I think) separation
-HEA
-epilogue 4 years later happily married and pregnant with their first child
The killers-
So there ended up being 2 killers, it’s Fernando the h’s childhood friend and Julian who works at her local coffee shop. It was the most anticlimactic reveal, so rushed and stupid.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 31, 2024
Where do I begin?
I loved the story, deadline for love follows Bella who’s a journalist who tries to solve a mystery of homicides. But she has her own demons to face as well, her stalker. Her stalker leaves her creepy notes and terrorises her mind. Her friend amara and her fiancé Justin take Bella to a double date where she meets Nathan Blake.
Nathan Blake is the most sweetest, protective, loyal and loving book boyfriend. He respects her boundaries, he’s wholesome yet he will do ANYTHING to protect Bella.
It’s not a surprise that Bella finds him cute.
Pro’s: dialogue between fmc&mc that’ll make you squeal, humorous, suspense is *chefs kiss*, the stalkers behaviour towards fmc really gets you (it did to me I was ROOTING FOR OUR GIRL😩)
Con’s: ending feels rushed, some characters could use more development (I couldn’t really connect with other important side characters due to this.)
The story:
As mentioned before I loved it. The pacing is decent, nothing is rushed and everything feels natural. However the ending is slightly rushed but if you’re a romance girlie like me, you’ll be squealing and aw’ing. There’s humor that made me cackle at times, the characters made me go through all sorts of emotions where I would pause and smack my kindle against my head in frustration. 😂
Akaku manages to keep you on your toes with this one. but all in all, if you’re a mood reader, a romance reader, love mystery, tension and suspense? I’d definitely give this book a shot!
Story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️/5
(but got me giggling and squealing at 2 am 🤭)
Content warnings:
I always feel safe when reading akaku’s work because she makes sure ANYTHING that can be triggering is mentioned in the trigger list. (Even if it’s minor) ❤️
Potential trigger warning: Stalking, death, infertility mentions, drowning mentions, corpses, murder, criminal investigation, workplace abuse, body fluids, abuse, cheating (only mentioned and not involved with the main couple), emotional manipulation, violence against women, pregnancy, classism, ptsd, trauma, strained family relationships, loss of a family member, threats of violence, gun violence, kidnapping, grief, loss, torture, sexual harassment, gore, blood, vomit, chloroform, mentions of suicidal ideation, difficult birth mentions.
Thank you Akaku, for allowing me to read this ARC for this piece❤️
I loved the story, deadline for love follows Bella who’s a journalist who tries to solve a mystery of homicides. But she has her own demons to face as well, her stalker. Her stalker leaves her creepy notes and terrorises her mind. Her friend amara and her fiancé Justin take Bella to a double date where she meets Nathan Blake.
Nathan Blake is the most sweetest, protective, loyal and loving book boyfriend. He respects her boundaries, he’s wholesome yet he will do ANYTHING to protect Bella.
It’s not a surprise that Bella finds him cute.
Pro’s: dialogue between fmc&mc that’ll make you squeal, humorous, suspense is *chefs kiss*, the stalkers behaviour towards fmc really gets you (it did to me I was ROOTING FOR OUR GIRL😩)
Con’s: ending feels rushed, some characters could use more development (I couldn’t really connect with other important side characters due to this.)
The story:
As mentioned before I loved it. The pacing is decent, nothing is rushed and everything feels natural. However the ending is slightly rushed but if you’re a romance girlie like me, you’ll be squealing and aw’ing. There’s humor that made me cackle at times, the characters made me go through all sorts of emotions where I would pause and smack my kindle against my head in frustration. 😂
Akaku manages to keep you on your toes with this one. but all in all, if you’re a mood reader, a romance reader, love mystery, tension and suspense? I’d definitely give this book a shot!
Story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️/5
(but got me giggling and squealing at 2 am 🤭)
Content warnings:
I always feel safe when reading akaku’s work because she makes sure ANYTHING that can be triggering is mentioned in the trigger list. (Even if it’s minor) ❤️
Potential trigger warning: Stalking, death, infertility mentions, drowning mentions, corpses, murder, criminal investigation, workplace abuse, body fluids, abuse, cheating (only mentioned and not involved with the main couple), emotional manipulation, violence against women, pregnancy, classism, ptsd, trauma, strained family relationships, loss of a family member, threats of violence, gun violence, kidnapping, grief, loss, torture, sexual harassment, gore, blood, vomit, chloroform, mentions of suicidal ideation, difficult birth mentions.
Thank you Akaku, for allowing me to read this ARC for this piece❤️
July 20, 2024
Where do i start? This was one of the best books i’ve read in a while and i loved it!!! The mentioning of Riverdale as a place through me but everything else is incredible!!! The thrill of a killer, the romance between Nathan and Bella, the kidnapping. It was incredible.
Here are my thoughts throughout reading including my favourite quotes!!!
p24 ‘looks like you’re the highlight of my day’ when i tell you i melted but i was at work so i had to try and keep my composure.
p109 when i tell you i am weak at the KNEES for a jealous man i mean nathan.
p112 i knew the fake marriage was a trope but was unsure how it would be woven in but this is perfect!! this is getting me through my boring shift at work!
p129 ‘you don’t want to conquer my heart; you want to steal it brutally’ I AM OBSESSED OMG WHY AM I SO SINGLE??
p140
the mentioning of Riverdale keeps throwing me off but despite that this book is phenomenal!
p155 we had the ‘fuck it’ as he kissed her moment!!!!
p185 bella’s obsessed with nathan? IM OBSESSED WITH NATHAN! they are incredible together!! him being like the men in her books is exceptional and has set my expectations for real men higher.
p199 i knew julian wasn’t to be trusted!! he seems so off!!
p204 FERNANDO I DIDNT SEE COMING WHAT!!?? i thought he was just a kid with a crush!!??
p218 nathan left!!! why is he being such a man!!
p242 ‘you’re not just the highlight of my life. you’re the colour to my gray, the warmth on my coldest days, and the melody to my silence’ WHAT A QUOTE! i need a man to say this to me omg
Here are my thoughts throughout reading including my favourite quotes!!!
p24 ‘looks like you’re the highlight of my day’ when i tell you i melted but i was at work so i had to try and keep my composure.
p109 when i tell you i am weak at the KNEES for a jealous man i mean nathan.
p112 i knew the fake marriage was a trope but was unsure how it would be woven in but this is perfect!! this is getting me through my boring shift at work!
p129 ‘you don’t want to conquer my heart; you want to steal it brutally’ I AM OBSESSED OMG WHY AM I SO SINGLE??
p140
the mentioning of Riverdale keeps throwing me off but despite that this book is phenomenal!
p155 we had the ‘fuck it’ as he kissed her moment!!!!
p185 bella’s obsessed with nathan? IM OBSESSED WITH NATHAN! they are incredible together!! him being like the men in her books is exceptional and has set my expectations for real men higher.
p199 i knew julian wasn’t to be trusted!! he seems so off!!
p204 FERNANDO I DIDNT SEE COMING WHAT!!?? i thought he was just a kid with a crush!!??
p218 nathan left!!! why is he being such a man!!
p242 ‘you’re not just the highlight of my life. you’re the colour to my gray, the warmth on my coldest days, and the melody to my silence’ WHAT A QUOTE! i need a man to say this to me omg
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 19, 2025
Deadline For Love is the perfect mix of mystery and romance. From the very first page, I was hooked. Bella, a determined journalist, ends up in a fake marriage with the charming Nathan and from there, it's slow-burn tension, stolen glances, and yes, one bed. I mean... SWOON 😭💓✨
Nathan is sweet with a side of "I'd burn the world for you," and honestly? We love to see it.
And Bella? She's fire. Confident, relentless & refuses to back down, even when the truth puts her in danger.
The tension between them? Off the charts. Their back-and-forth had me giggling one minute and clutching my chest the next.
The mystery kept me on my toes, constantly questioning everyone's motives - in the best way possible. Even when I had my suspicions, the journey was still full of tension, twists and excitement. The pacing felt fast and engaging, perfect for a short, bingeable read that pulls you in and refuses to let go.
And the friendships? Absolutely heartwarming. The bond between Bella and Amara was such a standout - supportive, genuine and full of love. It beautifully highlighted the kind of chosen family that sticks through everything❤️🤌🏻
The romance brings just the right amount of heat more tension-filled glances and flirty moments than anything explicit. It's soft, teasing and leaves you smiling like a fool. That one "scream my name" scene? Yeah... I'll never recover from that scene
If you're into fake marriages, slow burns and protective men wrapped in mystery - this one's for you 😌💕✨
Nathan is sweet with a side of "I'd burn the world for you," and honestly? We love to see it.
And Bella? She's fire. Confident, relentless & refuses to back down, even when the truth puts her in danger.
The tension between them? Off the charts. Their back-and-forth had me giggling one minute and clutching my chest the next.
The mystery kept me on my toes, constantly questioning everyone's motives - in the best way possible. Even when I had my suspicions, the journey was still full of tension, twists and excitement. The pacing felt fast and engaging, perfect for a short, bingeable read that pulls you in and refuses to let go.
And the friendships? Absolutely heartwarming. The bond between Bella and Amara was such a standout - supportive, genuine and full of love. It beautifully highlighted the kind of chosen family that sticks through everything❤️🤌🏻
The romance brings just the right amount of heat more tension-filled glances and flirty moments than anything explicit. It's soft, teasing and leaves you smiling like a fool. That one "scream my name" scene? Yeah... I'll never recover from that scene
If you're into fake marriages, slow burns and protective men wrapped in mystery - this one's for you 😌💕✨
July 14, 2024
“Looks like you’re the highlight of my day.”
Ahhh! Nathan Blake is my ultimate book boyfriend! I adore him so much. This book had me giggling, screaming, crying, and kicking my feet in the air.
A huge thank you to the author for choosing me as an ARC reader. I’m beyond thrilled to have read this masterpiece before its release.
Bella Carter’s story was incredibly captivating! The eerie rhymes and the mystery in this book were fantastic. I was completely shocked by the twist! I never would have guessed the murderer was… Well, no spoilers. Anyway I was hooked until the very end, and yes, I cried too.
Akaku writes romance so beautifully, and Nathan was absolutely perfect, just like Bella.
I love Bella and how she stands up for people and fights for the truth as a journalist. Nathan disappointed me a bit towards the end, but then he redeemed himself, and I understood his actions.
Amara, Nia, and Aicha were such wonderful characters too. I had so much fun reading this story, and I just couldn’t put the book down. Even the epilogue was fantastic, and at the end, I gasped! I’m so excited for the next stories!
I love Akaku’s writing style and I highly recommend it.
♾️ stars
Ahhh! Nathan Blake is my ultimate book boyfriend! I adore him so much. This book had me giggling, screaming, crying, and kicking my feet in the air.
A huge thank you to the author for choosing me as an ARC reader. I’m beyond thrilled to have read this masterpiece before its release.
Bella Carter’s story was incredibly captivating! The eerie rhymes and the mystery in this book were fantastic. I was completely shocked by the twist! I never would have guessed the murderer was… Well, no spoilers. Anyway I was hooked until the very end, and yes, I cried too.
Akaku writes romance so beautifully, and Nathan was absolutely perfect, just like Bella.
I love Bella and how she stands up for people and fights for the truth as a journalist. Nathan disappointed me a bit towards the end, but then he redeemed himself, and I understood his actions.
Amara, Nia, and Aicha were such wonderful characters too. I had so much fun reading this story, and I just couldn’t put the book down. Even the epilogue was fantastic, and at the end, I gasped! I’m so excited for the next stories!
I love Akaku’s writing style and I highly recommend it.
♾️ stars
November 16, 2024
A love brought together by murder!!
This is my first book from Akaku, and I have to say that I really enjoyed it! This book played on my mind, and I couldn't wait to get back to reading it to find out what happens next.
Deadline for love features a strong-willed journalist who was adamant she didn't need any man to live her best life. Until she was forced into a double date by her best friend. He brought light to her world, whilst she brought colour to his.
The relationships in the book were well thought out, the relationship between Bella and Amura being the best part of this book, and shows the power of choosing who your family is. Whilst the relationship between Bella and Nathan was sweet, at times I found him to be quite overbearing and forceful with his love. There is no denying that throughout the book sexual tension could be felt, however, I am not sure I would label this title as being spicy, with minimal sex scenes being featured.
I felt the murders were well described and handled well, even though I found it obviously who the culprits were.
I did find this enjoyable and will look out for other books by Akaku.
This is my first book from Akaku, and I have to say that I really enjoyed it! This book played on my mind, and I couldn't wait to get back to reading it to find out what happens next.
Deadline for love features a strong-willed journalist who was adamant she didn't need any man to live her best life. Until she was forced into a double date by her best friend. He brought light to her world, whilst she brought colour to his.
The relationships in the book were well thought out, the relationship between Bella and Amura being the best part of this book, and shows the power of choosing who your family is. Whilst the relationship between Bella and Nathan was sweet, at times I found him to be quite overbearing and forceful with his love. There is no denying that throughout the book sexual tension could be felt, however, I am not sure I would label this title as being spicy, with minimal sex scenes being featured.
I felt the murders were well described and handled well, even though I found it obviously who the culprits were.
I did find this enjoyable and will look out for other books by Akaku.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 31, 2024
To all my romantic suspense/murder mystery lovers, this one’s for you!
This book had me HOOKED from the beginning! I’m a huge mystery buff, so a murder mystery where the FMC receives creepy letters from a killer & fake marries a hot guy in order to draw out said killer— sign me up! The suspense and clues and just everything about this book had me just wanting to read without putting my book down! I was in a serious boom slump for weeks, and this got me out of it!
And now a moment for our main leads, Bella & Nathan. I love Bella, and honestly just how much of a girl-boss she was. She does not back down, and was gonna let nothing stop her from solving the case (and catching killer). And Nathan, oh my gosh, he was literally such a sweetheart & also hot & also just everything you could want in a book boyfriend. He was so patient & would do anything for Bella, and he just always has the perfect words for every situation. He was a phenomenal sweet-talker, but he was an amazing dirty one too ;)
*side note: i was given an arc in exchange for an honest review*
This book had me HOOKED from the beginning! I’m a huge mystery buff, so a murder mystery where the FMC receives creepy letters from a killer & fake marries a hot guy in order to draw out said killer— sign me up! The suspense and clues and just everything about this book had me just wanting to read without putting my book down! I was in a serious boom slump for weeks, and this got me out of it!
And now a moment for our main leads, Bella & Nathan. I love Bella, and honestly just how much of a girl-boss she was. She does not back down, and was gonna let nothing stop her from solving the case (and catching killer). And Nathan, oh my gosh, he was literally such a sweetheart & also hot & also just everything you could want in a book boyfriend. He was so patient & would do anything for Bella, and he just always has the perfect words for every situation. He was a phenomenal sweet-talker, but he was an amazing dirty one too ;)
*side note: i was given an arc in exchange for an honest review*
April 12, 2025
4.5/5 ⭐
2/5 🌶
I finished this book and let me say one thing — I’m OBSESSED!
This book completely pulled me in. I was blushing, holding my breath, and flipping through the pages like I couldn’t get ENOUGH! Let’s talk about the tension it was just so good. The fake marriage trope? Done well. And Nathan Blake?? I swear this man made me blush every single time he opened his mouth. He was protective, intense, and just the right amount of dangerous. Every scene with him had me screaming!!!
Bella was such a strong main character. I liked how she handled everything thrown her way. The mystery, the danger, the plot twists it all just came together in a way that made it impossible to put down.
Even the side characters added so much to the story. Their moments didn’t feel like filler they helped build the world and deepen the emotion.
I can't wait to read more the next upcoming books 💜
2/5 🌶
I finished this book and let me say one thing — I’m OBSESSED!
This book completely pulled me in. I was blushing, holding my breath, and flipping through the pages like I couldn’t get ENOUGH! Let’s talk about the tension it was just so good. The fake marriage trope? Done well. And Nathan Blake?? I swear this man made me blush every single time he opened his mouth. He was protective, intense, and just the right amount of dangerous. Every scene with him had me screaming!!!
Bella was such a strong main character. I liked how she handled everything thrown her way. The mystery, the danger, the plot twists it all just came together in a way that made it impossible to put down.
Even the side characters added so much to the story. Their moments didn’t feel like filler they helped build the world and deepen the emotion.
I can't wait to read more the next upcoming books 💜
July 18, 2024
🤍ARC Review🤍
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶️🌶️/5
We have love weary Bella who works as a journalist and is conveniently set up with industrial designer Nathan. They end up working together to try and solve a mystery of missing women and strange letters.
This story ended up being a total roller coaster and it did not disappoint! The mystery had me constantly speculating as to who the culprit could be🧐🕵🏻♀️ The way Bella and Nathan fell for each other was also so sweet and endearing🥹🫶🏻 The plot twist at the end was one I did not see see coming but the way it all came together was seamless and left no loose ends.
Overall, this book was a little bit of everything I love. A little mystery🔎, a little romance💜 and a sprinkle of spice🌶️ and would definitely recommend!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶️🌶️/5
We have love weary Bella who works as a journalist and is conveniently set up with industrial designer Nathan. They end up working together to try and solve a mystery of missing women and strange letters.
This story ended up being a total roller coaster and it did not disappoint! The mystery had me constantly speculating as to who the culprit could be🧐🕵🏻♀️ The way Bella and Nathan fell for each other was also so sweet and endearing🥹🫶🏻 The plot twist at the end was one I did not see see coming but the way it all came together was seamless and left no loose ends.
Overall, this book was a little bit of everything I love. A little mystery🔎, a little romance💜 and a sprinkle of spice🌶️ and would definitely recommend!
July 27, 2024
Oh boy this book took me on a wild ride. In the beginning I didn't really know what to expect but boy I was not expecting THAT. Holy smokes.... definitely not that. I loved the story, Bella is a journalist going on a double blind date with her best friend and this is where the story begins. Nathan is so dreamy, the way he takes care of her, I mean who wouldn't fall in love, come on be serious! He falls first and he falls hard. But Bella has so much going on past and present I can understand her hesitation. This murder mystery was definitely very mysterious, when I got to the end, I got the clues and was like how could I have missed that but damn!!! Nathan did break my heart, towards the end... But he redeemed himself, thank god!
July 31, 2024
5 ⭐
Deadline for love by Akaku Red is an amazing romance book featuring Bella and Nathan love story with suspense elements that keeps me hooked and flip page to page just to know who is the culprit.
Gosh I love this book so so much. Akaku is so good at balancing romance and suspense, making me not only invest in their love story but also in the mystery element. The book has a lot of twists and turns that keep surprising me until the end.
I love Bella so much and Nathan is such a dreamy man. Their chemistry is over the top, I am not going to lie they are one of the favorite couples of 2024 to me.
If you want to read an amazing love story with suspense and mystery plot, Deadline for love is a must read book to you.
Deadline for love by Akaku Red is an amazing romance book featuring Bella and Nathan love story with suspense elements that keeps me hooked and flip page to page just to know who is the culprit.
Gosh I love this book so so much. Akaku is so good at balancing romance and suspense, making me not only invest in their love story but also in the mystery element. The book has a lot of twists and turns that keep surprising me until the end.
I love Bella so much and Nathan is such a dreamy man. Their chemistry is over the top, I am not going to lie they are one of the favorite couples of 2024 to me.
If you want to read an amazing love story with suspense and mystery plot, Deadline for love is a must read book to you.
August 1, 2024
This is my second book by Akaku and I absolutely loved it! From the jump you are thrown into a mystery that has you questioning literally EVERYONE!
This book follows Bella, who is a journalist that is always fighting to meet her boss' demanding deadlines. Mysterious disappearances have peaked her interest and she also has a stalker who has been leaving her creepy poems. She falls into the rabbit hole of playing detective while also being protected and adored by Nathan.
I absolutely loved to see Bella and Nathan's relationship. He was so caring and respectful towards Bella but was secretly a lil freak (in a good way) 🤭
I had my little list of suspects but the plot twist had me GAGGED.
Thank you Akaku for the ARC! ❤️
This book follows Bella, who is a journalist that is always fighting to meet her boss' demanding deadlines. Mysterious disappearances have peaked her interest and she also has a stalker who has been leaving her creepy poems. She falls into the rabbit hole of playing detective while also being protected and adored by Nathan.
I absolutely loved to see Bella and Nathan's relationship. He was so caring and respectful towards Bella but was secretly a lil freak (in a good way) 🤭
I had my little list of suspects but the plot twist had me GAGGED.
Thank you Akaku for the ARC! ❤️
October 9, 2024
Firstly I’d like to apologize to the author for not reviewing this arc until now.. had a huge reading slump I couldn’t get out from for months but it’s still not an excuse.
Review:
I enjoy this read so much it’s definitely a mystery with some thriller aspects but just light enough for others wanting to dip there toes into this book {disclaimer there are detailed ish descriptions of unalivings} this is a slow burn with an insta connection with the fmc and mmc with lots of cute will have you kicking your feet scenes.
There is some spice but I didn’t really find myself caring for it but it was an overall a great story with very strong friendships and the plot line was just as good! Definitely a story worth picking up!💜
Review:
I enjoy this read so much it’s definitely a mystery with some thriller aspects but just light enough for others wanting to dip there toes into this book {disclaimer there are detailed ish descriptions of unalivings} this is a slow burn with an insta connection with the fmc and mmc with lots of cute will have you kicking your feet scenes.
There is some spice but I didn’t really find myself caring for it but it was an overall a great story with very strong friendships and the plot line was just as good! Definitely a story worth picking up!💜
July 23, 2024
just finished the ARC! what a ride, it was awesome. didn't saw the plot-twist coming. Perfect book, prefect romance. On a side note- If I was Bella i would've helped Nathan with his kind of revenge. Just saying. The spice was just to my taste and i usually skip the epilogue but this time i needed to read it because i didn't want the story to end. I loved it so much. Can't wait to read more books from Akaku. Thank you for letting me read Deadline for love.
July 30, 2024
ARC Review
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
Thank you so much, Akaku, for this ARC! ❤️
Sorry for the late read, but I was in a reading slump. However, this book pulled me right out of it. Bella and Nathan's story was incredibly engaging and fun to read. This is the first time I’ve encountered this kind of trope :mystery thriller elements. And it was a refreshing change.
Once again, thank you for the ARC!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
Thank you so much, Akaku, for this ARC! ❤️
Sorry for the late read, but I was in a reading slump. However, this book pulled me right out of it. Bella and Nathan's story was incredibly engaging and fun to read. This is the first time I’ve encountered this kind of trope :mystery thriller elements. And it was a refreshing change.
Once again, thank you for the ARC!
July 31, 2024
4.5⭐️
This was my first book by Akaku, and it had me giggling at 2 am. It's now one of my favorites. I love everything about the characters in this book: Nathan's passionate love for Bella, Bella's selflessness (I get you, girl😭), and Bella and Amara's bond💜. The plot was captivating—I wasn't bored for a moment. I can't wait to read the next book.
Thank you so much, Akaku, for providing the ARC 💜
This was my first book by Akaku, and it had me giggling at 2 am. It's now one of my favorites. I love everything about the characters in this book: Nathan's passionate love for Bella, Bella's selflessness (I get you, girl😭), and Bella and Amara's bond💜. The plot was captivating—I wasn't bored for a moment. I can't wait to read the next book.
Thank you so much, Akaku, for providing the ARC 💜
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