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Monsters and Mayhem #1
The Hunted
Alone.
That’s the way FBI Agent, Santino Alvarez, prefers to live his life.
To serve, and protect.
The oath Santino took the day he was sworn in and one that he fully intends to keep.
Playing pretend and blending in.
It’s all part of his plan.
Being the hunter.
Is the only way he can make sure that justice is served.
Until he becomes…the hunted.
When he finds his next target already dead with a message from the k!ller, just for him.
Nothing is as it seems.
Especially when he collides with Silva Hunt and sparks begin to fly.
Romance was never supposed to be in the cards. But Silva awakens something in Santino that he hasn’t felt before.
As things heat up between the two of them, so does the chase between Santino and The Reaper.
It’s a hunt that only one of them will survive.
Get ready for this slow-burn, edge of your seat, dark romance from author Nicole Banks. The Hunted is guaranteed to take on a wild ride of twists and turns that will have you questioning everything.
That’s the way FBI Agent, Santino Alvarez, prefers to live his life.
To serve, and protect.
The oath Santino took the day he was sworn in and one that he fully intends to keep.
Playing pretend and blending in.
It’s all part of his plan.
Being the hunter.
Is the only way he can make sure that justice is served.
Until he becomes…the hunted.
When he finds his next target already dead with a message from the k!ller, just for him.
Nothing is as it seems.
Especially when he collides with Silva Hunt and sparks begin to fly.
Romance was never supposed to be in the cards. But Silva awakens something in Santino that he hasn’t felt before.
As things heat up between the two of them, so does the chase between Santino and The Reaper.
It’s a hunt that only one of them will survive.
Get ready for this slow-burn, edge of your seat, dark romance from author Nicole Banks. The Hunted is guaranteed to take on a wild ride of twists and turns that will have you questioning everything.
- GenresDark RomanceContemporary
368 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 29, 2025
10 people are currently reading
100 people want to read
About the author
Nicole Banks
42 books380 followers"It's like a verbal seduction."
Weaving tales that will seduce your mind and have you hanging off the edge of your seat.
I dabble in all writing genres but I'm a sucker for romantic suspense.
I'm a yogi, music snob, and love living life on my own terms.
www.facebook.com/nicolebanks13
instagram: @_nicolebanks_
Weaving tales that will seduce your mind and have you hanging off the edge of your seat.
I dabble in all writing genres but I'm a sucker for romantic suspense.
I'm a yogi, music snob, and love living life on my own terms.
www.facebook.com/nicolebanks13
instagram: @_nicolebanks_
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
November 22, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
I’m already aching for book two because Nicole Banks did not come to play with The Hunted.
This story drags you straight into a shadowy, high-stakes world where danger stalks every corner, obsession simmers beneath the surface, and the slow-burn attraction between Santino and Silva creeps up until you’re completely consumed.
The pacing is relentless in the best way. Each chapter adds another layer of tension, every twist hits harder than the last, and the reveals kept me second-guessing everything I thought I knew. And Santino and Silva together? Their chemistry is absolutely magnetic, darkly compelling, and dangerously addictive.
Consider me fully hooked and already impatient for the next book.
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
I’m already aching for book two because Nicole Banks did not come to play with The Hunted.
This story drags you straight into a shadowy, high-stakes world where danger stalks every corner, obsession simmers beneath the surface, and the slow-burn attraction between Santino and Silva creeps up until you’re completely consumed.
The pacing is relentless in the best way. Each chapter adds another layer of tension, every twist hits harder than the last, and the reveals kept me second-guessing everything I thought I knew. And Santino and Silva together? Their chemistry is absolutely magnetic, darkly compelling, and dangerously addictive.
Consider me fully hooked and already impatient for the next book.
December 15, 2025
Thank you IRIS and Nicole Banks...This was amazing.
I am hoping that I get chosen to ARC book two as I cannot wait to see where this storyline goes from here.
Imagine a serial unaliver working for the FBI (Santino) who has a blank space in his memory. Dexter vibes for sure...but just wait till you meet Silva. She will change everything about Santino, his thoughts, his feelings, and that blank space...who will fill that?
This book has all the wonderful tropes of slow-burn, dark romance, with a whole lot of twist that have you questioning everything that you think you know. And they are all done so well. Congrats Nicole...job well done.
I am hoping that I get chosen to ARC book two as I cannot wait to see where this storyline goes from here.
Imagine a serial unaliver working for the FBI (Santino) who has a blank space in his memory. Dexter vibes for sure...but just wait till you meet Silva. She will change everything about Santino, his thoughts, his feelings, and that blank space...who will fill that?
This book has all the wonderful tropes of slow-burn, dark romance, with a whole lot of twist that have you questioning everything that you think you know. And they are all done so well. Congrats Nicole...job well done.
August 29, 2025
The Hunted follows the adventures of a couple of serial unalivers who meet and fall in love. I don't want to say too much, because that will give away the twists and turns in this book. It's riveting and keeps you guessing through it all. I will say I loved the chemistry between Santino and Silva! I believe this ends on a cliffhanger. Also, check the TW/CW page!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 1, 2025
Absolutely beautiful! Thank you IRIS Influencer Society and Nicole Banks for the ARC book!
I absolutely loved this book! It was mysterious and captivating! It was beautifully heartbreaking its own way and the history between Silva and Santino was so beautifully woven in together. You get lost in them and don’t want to leave. This book has mystery, crime, heartbreak, humor and deranged sexual tension that you just cannot resist!
I absolutely loved this book! It was mysterious and captivating! It was beautifully heartbreaking its own way and the history between Silva and Santino was so beautifully woven in together. You get lost in them and don’t want to leave. This book has mystery, crime, heartbreak, humor and deranged sexual tension that you just cannot resist!
November 20, 2025
Santino Alvarez had a troubled past, but a childhood he couldn’t remember. He grew up and became an FBI agent, but he always wanted to stay alone. He never cared for people, he dealt with people to try to blend into society, he was never interested in dating, and he always knew he was different. He put on this mask so people wouldn’t ask questions, but behind closed doors, he was a hunter. Until one day, he becomes the hunted. Once he runs into Silva, everything changes and his world gets flipped upside down. What started out as a way for him yo seem normal turned into heat and passion. But with the serial killer The Reaper on the loose leaving him messages, he decides to play the game. But what he finds out in the end, he never saw coming.
Santino even though with his personality and of course how he chooses to be a vigilante can seem bland and weird at times, I actually ended up loving his character. (And apparently birthday twins yay lol) but he showed so much growth that even the other characters mention that they’ve never seen him so in love. He would burn the world down for her, has so much passion and fire, but is also gentle and caring with her.
I also loved Silva, as she was sassy and doesn’t back down from saying with her full chest what she thinks. She doesn’t back down from a fight, and she’s pretty badass. She had to endure a lot of trauma, and she really grows on you.
These two together worked so well, everything was spicy but still sweet. Even after everything was discovered, you can’t help but root for these two.
I loved this story and I loved how it was a lot of mystery with the killers and the romance was still strong. I did find it was a tad repetitive at times, but I loved how this brought out so many emotions from sadness, love, and surprise with that twist. Overall I loved this book, and loved every minute of it.
Santino even though with his personality and of course how he chooses to be a vigilante can seem bland and weird at times, I actually ended up loving his character. (And apparently birthday twins yay lol) but he showed so much growth that even the other characters mention that they’ve never seen him so in love. He would burn the world down for her, has so much passion and fire, but is also gentle and caring with her.
I also loved Silva, as she was sassy and doesn’t back down from saying with her full chest what she thinks. She doesn’t back down from a fight, and she’s pretty badass. She had to endure a lot of trauma, and she really grows on you.
These two together worked so well, everything was spicy but still sweet. Even after everything was discovered, you can’t help but root for these two.
I loved this story and I loved how it was a lot of mystery with the killers and the romance was still strong. I did find it was a tad repetitive at times, but I loved how this brought out so many emotions from sadness, love, and surprise with that twist. Overall I loved this book, and loved every minute of it.
November 25, 2025
This was my first dark romance, and what a way to start. I’m officially hooked on the entire genre now. From the moment I read the synopsis, I knew it would be my vibe, but the execution? Even better.
We follow FBI Agent Santino Alvarez, deep in the hunt for a serial k!ller known as The Reaper. What he doesn’t realize is that while he’s stalking the monster… someone is stalking him. The hunter becomes the hunted, and the tension skyrockets from there.
Enter Silva, the woman who shouldn’t matter, but immediately does. Their chemistry? Unmatched. The yearning, the tension, the possessiveness… it’s explosive. When they finally give in? Pure, dark, sinful bliss. Nicole Banks writes explicit scenes that are intense, dangerous, and incredibly well-balanced. Knife play might actually be a new favorite trope for me after this. 👀
The thriller plot is just as strong as the romance. Nicole’s writing keeps your mind spinning, no early clues, no cheap reveals. She builds suspense with precision, dropping hints only when she’s ready. I was guessing the killer’s identity until the final pages, and even then, I was only half right. Exactly how I like it.
The ending wrapped up in a way that was satisfying, shocking, and completely worth the ride. Dark romance, psychological thrills , & breathtaking tension? Yes please. I’m already dying to continue the Monsters & Mayhem series.
⚠️ Trigger Warning: This story dives into dark themes, check warnings before reading.
If you want a dark romance that balances spice, suspense, and serial-k!ller stakes, I cannot recommend this one enough. It’s addictive.
We follow FBI Agent Santino Alvarez, deep in the hunt for a serial k!ller known as The Reaper. What he doesn’t realize is that while he’s stalking the monster… someone is stalking him. The hunter becomes the hunted, and the tension skyrockets from there.
Enter Silva, the woman who shouldn’t matter, but immediately does. Their chemistry? Unmatched. The yearning, the tension, the possessiveness… it’s explosive. When they finally give in? Pure, dark, sinful bliss. Nicole Banks writes explicit scenes that are intense, dangerous, and incredibly well-balanced. Knife play might actually be a new favorite trope for me after this. 👀
The thriller plot is just as strong as the romance. Nicole’s writing keeps your mind spinning, no early clues, no cheap reveals. She builds suspense with precision, dropping hints only when she’s ready. I was guessing the killer’s identity until the final pages, and even then, I was only half right. Exactly how I like it.
The ending wrapped up in a way that was satisfying, shocking, and completely worth the ride. Dark romance, psychological thrills , & breathtaking tension? Yes please. I’m already dying to continue the Monsters & Mayhem series.
⚠️ Trigger Warning: This story dives into dark themes, check warnings before reading.
If you want a dark romance that balances spice, suspense, and serial-k!ller stakes, I cannot recommend this one enough. It’s addictive.
September 8, 2025
🖤 𝓑𝓸𝓸𝓴 𝓡𝓮𝓿𝓲𝓮𝔀 🖤
𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝑯𝒖𝒏𝒕𝒆𝒅 𝒃𝒚 𝑵𝒊𝒄𝒐𝒍𝒆 𝑩𝒂𝒏𝒌𝒔
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
𝙃𝙚 𝙜𝙧𝙤𝙖𝙣𝙚𝙙 𝙖𝙨 𝙨𝙤𝙢𝙚𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙚𝙡𝙨𝙚 𝙘𝙡𝙞𝙘𝙠𝙚𝙙 𝙞𝙣𝙩𝙤 𝙥𝙡𝙖𝙘𝙚 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙝𝙞𝙢. 𝙃𝙚 𝙪𝙣𝙙𝙚𝙧𝙨𝙩𝙤𝙤𝙙 𝙬𝙝𝙮 𝙢𝙚𝙣 𝙗𝙪𝙧𝙣𝙚𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙬𝙤𝙧𝙡𝙙 𝙙𝙤𝙬𝙣 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙞𝙧 𝙨𝙞𝙜𝙣𝙞𝙛𝙞𝙘𝙖𝙣𝙩 𝙤𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙨. 𝙃𝙚 𝙛𝙞𝙣𝙖𝙡𝙡𝙮 𝙪𝙣𝙙𝙚𝙧𝙨𝙩𝙤𝙤𝙙 𝙬𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙣𝙚𝙚𝙙 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙙𝙚𝙨𝙞𝙧𝙚 𝙘𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙 𝙙𝙤 𝙩𝙤 𝙨𝙤𝙢𝙚𝙤𝙣𝙚, 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙛𝙞𝙧𝙨𝙩 𝙩𝙞𝙢𝙚 𝙞𝙣 𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙡𝙞𝙛𝙚, 𝙝𝙚 𝙪𝙣𝙙𝙚𝙧𝙨𝙩𝙤𝙤𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙣𝙚𝙚𝙙 𝙩𝙤 𝙝𝙪𝙧𝙩 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙠𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙨𝙤𝙢𝙚𝙤𝙣𝙚 𝙬𝙝𝙤 𝙙𝙖𝙧𝙚𝙙 𝙩𝙤 𝙩𝙤𝙪𝙘𝙝 𝙬𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙬𝙖𝙨 𝙞𝙣𝙩𝙞𝙢𝙖𝙩𝙚𝙡𝙮 𝙝𝙞𝙨.
I didn’t expect to fall for a book where the main character is both a serial unaliver and an FBI agent, but here I am, completely hooked on Santino Alvarez. I loved how dangerous and morally gray he is, yet I couldn’t look away from the way he’s drawn to Silva Hunt. I found myself questioning if I should even be rooting for him, and guess what? I absolutely did!!
I was captivated by Silva too. Her strength, her ability to hold her own against other characters, and the way she saw past the darkness made me ache in the best way. I felt every ounce of tension, every dangerous pull between them, and it had me turning the pages faster than I realized.
I love when a dark romance makes me sit with my own twisted thoughts, and this story did exactly that. The slow burn build-up was so delicious, and when the heat hit, it was absolutely unapologetic; that shower and locker room scene 🥵😍
I was torn, thrilled, and completely consumed. This wasn’t just a book I read, it was one I experienced the whole way through!!
If this turns into a series, I will be putting the next one on my TBR!
As well as putting a special edition on my bookshelf!
𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝑯𝒖𝒏𝒕𝒆𝒅 𝒃𝒚 𝑵𝒊𝒄𝒐𝒍𝒆 𝑩𝒂𝒏𝒌𝒔
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
𝙃𝙚 𝙜𝙧𝙤𝙖𝙣𝙚𝙙 𝙖𝙨 𝙨𝙤𝙢𝙚𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙚𝙡𝙨𝙚 𝙘𝙡𝙞𝙘𝙠𝙚𝙙 𝙞𝙣𝙩𝙤 𝙥𝙡𝙖𝙘𝙚 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙝𝙞𝙢. 𝙃𝙚 𝙪𝙣𝙙𝙚𝙧𝙨𝙩𝙤𝙤𝙙 𝙬𝙝𝙮 𝙢𝙚𝙣 𝙗𝙪𝙧𝙣𝙚𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙬𝙤𝙧𝙡𝙙 𝙙𝙤𝙬𝙣 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙞𝙧 𝙨𝙞𝙜𝙣𝙞𝙛𝙞𝙘𝙖𝙣𝙩 𝙤𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙨. 𝙃𝙚 𝙛𝙞𝙣𝙖𝙡𝙡𝙮 𝙪𝙣𝙙𝙚𝙧𝙨𝙩𝙤𝙤𝙙 𝙬𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙣𝙚𝙚𝙙 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙙𝙚𝙨𝙞𝙧𝙚 𝙘𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙 𝙙𝙤 𝙩𝙤 𝙨𝙤𝙢𝙚𝙤𝙣𝙚, 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙛𝙞𝙧𝙨𝙩 𝙩𝙞𝙢𝙚 𝙞𝙣 𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙡𝙞𝙛𝙚, 𝙝𝙚 𝙪𝙣𝙙𝙚𝙧𝙨𝙩𝙤𝙤𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙣𝙚𝙚𝙙 𝙩𝙤 𝙝𝙪𝙧𝙩 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙠𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙨𝙤𝙢𝙚𝙤𝙣𝙚 𝙬𝙝𝙤 𝙙𝙖𝙧𝙚𝙙 𝙩𝙤 𝙩𝙤𝙪𝙘𝙝 𝙬𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙬𝙖𝙨 𝙞𝙣𝙩𝙞𝙢𝙖𝙩𝙚𝙡𝙮 𝙝𝙞𝙨.
I didn’t expect to fall for a book where the main character is both a serial unaliver and an FBI agent, but here I am, completely hooked on Santino Alvarez. I loved how dangerous and morally gray he is, yet I couldn’t look away from the way he’s drawn to Silva Hunt. I found myself questioning if I should even be rooting for him, and guess what? I absolutely did!!
I was captivated by Silva too. Her strength, her ability to hold her own against other characters, and the way she saw past the darkness made me ache in the best way. I felt every ounce of tension, every dangerous pull between them, and it had me turning the pages faster than I realized.
I love when a dark romance makes me sit with my own twisted thoughts, and this story did exactly that. The slow burn build-up was so delicious, and when the heat hit, it was absolutely unapologetic; that shower and locker room scene 🥵😍
I was torn, thrilled, and completely consumed. This wasn’t just a book I read, it was one I experienced the whole way through!!
If this turns into a series, I will be putting the next one on my TBR!
As well as putting a special edition on my bookshelf!
November 23, 2025
Huge thank you to the author and to the iris influencer society for the gifted eARC copy of this story in exchange for my honest and spoiler free review.
The Hunted by Nicole Banks definitely took me by surprise. Have you ever read a book about an FBI agent who also lives as a serial unaliver??? You haven’t??? Good, because neither have I! Not until I read this book! I was already quite intrigued when I found out that this book was going to be about a serial unaliver that blends in with everyday people, especially as an FBI agent, however it seems that he has his work cut out for him when he enters a game of trying to be the first person to reach the people on his hit list as he has to try and beat who is known as the Reaper/The Poet. The implementation of poems and special little notes left behind for Santino to find that added just another touch of tension to the game that both unalivers were playing.
Overall, I was very impressed by this book. There are so many twists and turns and each person on the hit list comes with high stakes in order to keep his identity a secret. Santino can read people really well so when he first meets Silva, they instantly try to get a read on one another and try to ignore their attraction to one another. Their banter was great and I loved how they both got under each other’s skin. Even with everything that happened in this story, I did really like the two of them together.
For a dark romance, this one was really interesting and I really am curious to know what happens in the next book! I am rating this book 4.5 stars!
The Hunted by Nicole Banks definitely took me by surprise. Have you ever read a book about an FBI agent who also lives as a serial unaliver??? You haven’t??? Good, because neither have I! Not until I read this book! I was already quite intrigued when I found out that this book was going to be about a serial unaliver that blends in with everyday people, especially as an FBI agent, however it seems that he has his work cut out for him when he enters a game of trying to be the first person to reach the people on his hit list as he has to try and beat who is known as the Reaper/The Poet. The implementation of poems and special little notes left behind for Santino to find that added just another touch of tension to the game that both unalivers were playing.
Overall, I was very impressed by this book. There are so many twists and turns and each person on the hit list comes with high stakes in order to keep his identity a secret. Santino can read people really well so when he first meets Silva, they instantly try to get a read on one another and try to ignore their attraction to one another. Their banter was great and I loved how they both got under each other’s skin. Even with everything that happened in this story, I did really like the two of them together.
For a dark romance, this one was really interesting and I really am curious to know what happens in the next book! I am rating this book 4.5 stars!
November 30, 2025
Here’s my 2¢ -
I was hooked the minute I saw this book compared to Dexter vibes! I recommend this book for people who like dark romance with a slow burn in both the romance and the suspense aspect.
Telling the tale of two serial killers who fall for each other, it’s a very slow burn but check the trigger warning list because this one has a lot of crass internal dialogue and eventually the spice level rises. Santino’s role as a vigilante serial miller turned FBI agent hunting the another killer who’s hunting him is fascinating. The story becomes more complex as his childhood memories begin to surface and we learn more about the reaper.
This thriller aspect of the book was what I enjoyed most. Silva is a fun and feisty character, and I admired her independent confidence. The lost childhood memories and the way they begin to resurface was a great touch. The main characters are multifaceted with complex back stories. The secondary characters are also well developed and had me wondering right along with Santino who was after him.
The environmental descriptions were rich and perfectly suited for the unsettled tenor of the story. Everything felt solidly grounded in a murky history that gave the entire book that ominous energy where you can’t relax but you’re also not sure what to do with yourself.
Overall I liked this book and would recommend it to fans of the genre, but I did feel some frustration with the pacing of the story, and the balance of the thriller and dark romance felt a little off kilter.
I was hooked the minute I saw this book compared to Dexter vibes! I recommend this book for people who like dark romance with a slow burn in both the romance and the suspense aspect.
Telling the tale of two serial killers who fall for each other, it’s a very slow burn but check the trigger warning list because this one has a lot of crass internal dialogue and eventually the spice level rises. Santino’s role as a vigilante serial miller turned FBI agent hunting the another killer who’s hunting him is fascinating. The story becomes more complex as his childhood memories begin to surface and we learn more about the reaper.
This thriller aspect of the book was what I enjoyed most. Silva is a fun and feisty character, and I admired her independent confidence. The lost childhood memories and the way they begin to resurface was a great touch. The main characters are multifaceted with complex back stories. The secondary characters are also well developed and had me wondering right along with Santino who was after him.
The environmental descriptions were rich and perfectly suited for the unsettled tenor of the story. Everything felt solidly grounded in a murky history that gave the entire book that ominous energy where you can’t relax but you’re also not sure what to do with yourself.
Overall I liked this book and would recommend it to fans of the genre, but I did feel some frustration with the pacing of the story, and the balance of the thriller and dark romance felt a little off kilter.
Read
November 30, 2025This book had me hooked right away. It’s full of high stakes, serial unalivers, obsession, and will have you guessing until the end. I thought I knew who The Reaper was, but the author had it to where I kept second guessing myself and switching because she would throw crazy twists at us.
Santino had a troubled childhood and he is not a fan of people. He deals with them enough to blend into society, but other than that he avoids them. He is also used to being the hunter, but lately he has become the hunted. The Reaper seems to always be a couple steps ahead of him and leaving him notes, driving him crazy because he can’t figure out who it is.
Silva is full of sass and this girl is not one to back down to anyone. I loved her character so much. She also had a rough and traumatic childhood.
When these two meet it flips Santinos world upside down. He isn’t used to this kind of attraction or feelings. His character growth was so fun to watch and his commentary and how he is feeling and how odd it is for him. These two have an electric connection that is hot. It’s a slow burn, but it’s hot and so worth the wait.
This book is packed full of mystery, murders, twists and turns from all directions. Also make sure to check your triggers.
Santino had a troubled childhood and he is not a fan of people. He deals with them enough to blend into society, but other than that he avoids them. He is also used to being the hunter, but lately he has become the hunted. The Reaper seems to always be a couple steps ahead of him and leaving him notes, driving him crazy because he can’t figure out who it is.
Silva is full of sass and this girl is not one to back down to anyone. I loved her character so much. She also had a rough and traumatic childhood.
When these two meet it flips Santinos world upside down. He isn’t used to this kind of attraction or feelings. His character growth was so fun to watch and his commentary and how he is feeling and how odd it is for him. These two have an electric connection that is hot. It’s a slow burn, but it’s hot and so worth the wait.
This book is packed full of mystery, murders, twists and turns from all directions. Also make sure to check your triggers.
August 30, 2025
I didn’t expect to fall for a book where the main character is both a serial unaliver and an FBI agent, but here I am, completely hooked on Santino Alvarez. I loved how dangerous and morally gray he is, yet I couldn’t look away from the way he’s drawn to Silva Hunt. I found myself questioning if I should even be rooting for him, and guess what? I absolutely did!!
I was captivated by Silva too. Her strength, her ability to hold her own against other characters, and the way she saw past the darkness made me ache in the best way. I felt every ounce of tension, every dangerous pull between them, and it had me turning the pages faster than I realized.
I love when a dark romance makes me sit with my own twisted thoughts, and this story did exactly that. The slow burn build-up was so delicious, and when the heat hit, it was absolutely unapologetic; that shower and locker room scene 🥵😍
I was torn, thrilled, and completely consumed. This wasn’t just a book I read, it was one I experienced the whole way through!!
If this turns into a series, I will be putting the next one on my TBR!
As well as putting a special edition on my bookshelf!
I was captivated by Silva too. Her strength, her ability to hold her own against other characters, and the way she saw past the darkness made me ache in the best way. I felt every ounce of tension, every dangerous pull between them, and it had me turning the pages faster than I realized.
I love when a dark romance makes me sit with my own twisted thoughts, and this story did exactly that. The slow burn build-up was so delicious, and when the heat hit, it was absolutely unapologetic; that shower and locker room scene 🥵😍
I was torn, thrilled, and completely consumed. This wasn’t just a book I read, it was one I experienced the whole way through!!
If this turns into a series, I will be putting the next one on my TBR!
As well as putting a special edition on my bookshelf!
September 1, 2025
Nicole, I am OBSESSED with this read!! From the beginning to the end, I was invested in this Dexter and You vibe that had be thinking one way and then, BAM!! The twist and turns had me shook.
Santino is an FBI agent by day and a hunter by night. The whole hunter-becomes-the-pry had me second guessing everything. His activities satisfied the need, at least until another wanted to play a game that could turn his life upside down. Silva is such a free spirit that takes to -ish from anyone, not even the handsome guy with the charm. She can hold her own but can submit to the one she wants. And Silva is the only one who could actually rattle him. Their banter carried just as much heat and that slow burn nearly killed me. But when we get there, good lawd, you are gonna need a cold shower. Santino is so gentle with her until he is given the consent for more and my geezus, we get MORE!! But that ending had me staring at my kindle like, WHAT!? You can not seriously leave me like that! And yet it was so delicious.
Santino is an FBI agent by day and a hunter by night. The whole hunter-becomes-the-pry had me second guessing everything. His activities satisfied the need, at least until another wanted to play a game that could turn his life upside down. Silva is such a free spirit that takes to -ish from anyone, not even the handsome guy with the charm. She can hold her own but can submit to the one she wants. And Silva is the only one who could actually rattle him. Their banter carried just as much heat and that slow burn nearly killed me. But when we get there, good lawd, you are gonna need a cold shower. Santino is so gentle with her until he is given the consent for more and my geezus, we get MORE!! But that ending had me staring at my kindle like, WHAT!? You can not seriously leave me like that! And yet it was so delicious.
October 14, 2025
holy sh*t
Wasn’t expecting that. I stumbled on this book on accident but one small part I read gave me weird Deja vu like I’d seen that little excerpt before.
Anyway, I was skeptical in the beginning not gonna lie. I didn’t love the MMC for a good minute but then I melted at the two of them together.
I love the twists and the hidden connections (I can’t say much more without spoiling) but I always love those kinds of stories they surprise you in such a good deep way that connects the story even better.
I’m pissed there’s a second book and this ended on a cliffhanger lol. I usually pass on any series where the books aren’t all out and the closer I got to the end the more I was like okay wait… there’s no way everything can come to a head right now at the same time.
Bummed to find out I was right but alas.
So good.
I’ll be waiting impatiently for the next book.
I will say for anyone who hates cliffhangers with no end in sight like me, it’s not a big one at all - not earth shattering, and it will leave you sated for now.
READ THIS!!!
Wasn’t expecting that. I stumbled on this book on accident but one small part I read gave me weird Deja vu like I’d seen that little excerpt before.
Anyway, I was skeptical in the beginning not gonna lie. I didn’t love the MMC for a good minute but then I melted at the two of them together.
I love the twists and the hidden connections (I can’t say much more without spoiling) but I always love those kinds of stories they surprise you in such a good deep way that connects the story even better.
I’m pissed there’s a second book and this ended on a cliffhanger lol. I usually pass on any series where the books aren’t all out and the closer I got to the end the more I was like okay wait… there’s no way everything can come to a head right now at the same time.
Bummed to find out I was right but alas.
So good.
I’ll be waiting impatiently for the next book.
I will say for anyone who hates cliffhangers with no end in sight like me, it’s not a big one at all - not earth shattering, and it will leave you sated for now.
READ THIS!!!
November 30, 2025
📖 ARC Review 📖
The Hunted is gritty, clever, and so addictive. I loved how Nicole Banks blends psychological tension with slow, smoldering chemistry that builds in the middle of absolute chaos. Following Santino as he shifts from hunter to hunted made the story feel sharp and intimate, especially once the Reaper begins leaving messages that hit way too close. It creates that perfect sense of dread where you cannot stop turning pages.
Silva and Santino together are a lightning strike. Their connection is messy and magnetic, born from danger rather than softness, but it works so well. Silva brings out this raw part of him he keeps buried, and the push pull between justice, desire, and survival stays taut until the final chapter. Readers who love morally gray men, feisty women who refuse to stay quiet, and a plot that twists fast will fall hard for this.
The serial killer elements are unsettling in the best way, balanced by a romance that feels earned and slow building. Every reveal deepens the emotional stakes, and the ending left me buzzing for what comes next.
The Hunted is gritty, clever, and so addictive. I loved how Nicole Banks blends psychological tension with slow, smoldering chemistry that builds in the middle of absolute chaos. Following Santino as he shifts from hunter to hunted made the story feel sharp and intimate, especially once the Reaper begins leaving messages that hit way too close. It creates that perfect sense of dread where you cannot stop turning pages.
Silva and Santino together are a lightning strike. Their connection is messy and magnetic, born from danger rather than softness, but it works so well. Silva brings out this raw part of him he keeps buried, and the push pull between justice, desire, and survival stays taut until the final chapter. Readers who love morally gray men, feisty women who refuse to stay quiet, and a plot that twists fast will fall hard for this.
The serial killer elements are unsettling in the best way, balanced by a romance that feels earned and slow building. Every reveal deepens the emotional stakes, and the ending left me buzzing for what comes next.
August 29, 2025
Nothing is ever as it seems...
"Are you the hunter or are you the prey?"
Dexter and YOU fans rejoice. A dark romantic suspense that will keep you turning pages and wanting to read more. The way this book held my attention and eager to find out what happened next was unreal. I normally don't enjoy reading 3rd person POV but the writing was so enjoyable and done so well it wasn't an issue for me at all. This thriller had me on the edge of my seat. I did not know which was up at times, and it completely took me by surprise which isn't easy to do.
Some things to expect:
Vigilante
Serial Unalivers
Enemies-to-lovers
Spicy slow-burn
Cat and mouse
Morally-gray
Anti-hero
3rd person POV
Check TW
MCs Santino and Silva love their meet-cute, verbal sparring at its best, and the most delicious slow burn.
I don't want to spoil any of the surprises so just go get it and read it already you dark romance readers.
This is my first Nicole Banks novel and it won't be my last.
"Are you the hunter or are you the prey?"
Dexter and YOU fans rejoice. A dark romantic suspense that will keep you turning pages and wanting to read more. The way this book held my attention and eager to find out what happened next was unreal. I normally don't enjoy reading 3rd person POV but the writing was so enjoyable and done so well it wasn't an issue for me at all. This thriller had me on the edge of my seat. I did not know which was up at times, and it completely took me by surprise which isn't easy to do.
Some things to expect:
Vigilante
Serial Unalivers
Enemies-to-lovers
Spicy slow-burn
Cat and mouse
Morally-gray
Anti-hero
3rd person POV
Check TW
MCs Santino and Silva love their meet-cute, verbal sparring at its best, and the most delicious slow burn.
I don't want to spoil any of the surprises so just go get it and read it already you dark romance readers.
This is my first Nicole Banks novel and it won't be my last.
December 3, 2025
Check your trigger warnings if you have triggers and don't prefer to go in blind like I do!!
Ohhhh.... This book takes you on such a wild ride, then leaves you with a major cliffhanger!
This follows two crazy characters that will keep you on edge asking will they or won't they throughout the whole book.
MMC Santino and FMC Silva are on the lookout to find the final person that is revealed at the end.
You need to read this book, it is full of everything you could want in a FBI and serial k!klee hunt. However, Santino( FBI agent) and the Reaper end up on the hunt for the one following them. Thanks @_nicolebanks_ and @iris.influencer.society for the opportunity to read and review this.
I'll be waiting patiently for return and the continuation of Santino and Silvia's wild and insane journey to hopefully a hea.
Story: 5⭐️
Characters: 5⭐️
Spice: 3.5🌶️
HEA: Cliffhanger
Recommend: ABSOLUTELY
Ohhhh.... This book takes you on such a wild ride, then leaves you with a major cliffhanger!
This follows two crazy characters that will keep you on edge asking will they or won't they throughout the whole book.
MMC Santino and FMC Silva are on the lookout to find the final person that is revealed at the end.
You need to read this book, it is full of everything you could want in a FBI and serial k!klee hunt. However, Santino( FBI agent) and the Reaper end up on the hunt for the one following them. Thanks @_nicolebanks_ and @iris.influencer.society for the opportunity to read and review this.
I'll be waiting patiently for return and the continuation of Santino and Silvia's wild and insane journey to hopefully a hea.
Story: 5⭐️
Characters: 5⭐️
Spice: 3.5🌶️
HEA: Cliffhanger
Recommend: ABSOLUTELY
August 24, 2025
In this Dexter type dark romance, Santino works for the FBI and satisfies his needs by being the hunter…but during the investigation of a case, Santino meets a woman named Silva who he feels a connection to like he’s never felt before. But what is that connection? Where does it come from and does he actually know her as someone else? Or is this a romance that he never thought he’d have?
When bodies start showing up and notes are let for
him, the hunter has now become the hunted, but who is turning the tables? The twists and turns this book takes are powerful. Very well written story that makes you want more. If you’re looking for a quick read that will have you questioning every character, pick this up on August 29th!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
When bodies start showing up and notes are let for
him, the hunter has now become the hunted, but who is turning the tables? The twists and turns this book takes are powerful. Very well written story that makes you want more. If you’re looking for a quick read that will have you questioning every character, pick this up on August 29th!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 27, 2025
This book drew me in right from the beginning. I thought the plot was really interesting. Santino is a serial killer hiding in plain sight working as an agent in the FBI investigating the very crimes he is committing. His system works until another serial killer enters the scene and starts leaving behind messages for him to find. Now the hunter has become the hunted, and Santino has to fight to stay one step ahead and figure out who is playing games with him.
I thought the pacing was very good. There is a spicy romance between Santino and Silva (a woman he meets at a coffee shop). The mystery of who the other killer is keeps the plot interesting right to the very end.
Overall, I thought this was a very entertaining read, and I highly recommend it to anyone that enjoys dark romance with lots of twists and turns to keep you guessing.
I received an ARC of this book. This is my honest and voluntary review.
I thought the pacing was very good. There is a spicy romance between Santino and Silva (a woman he meets at a coffee shop). The mystery of who the other killer is keeps the plot interesting right to the very end.
Overall, I thought this was a very entertaining read, and I highly recommend it to anyone that enjoys dark romance with lots of twists and turns to keep you guessing.
I received an ARC of this book. This is my honest and voluntary review.
Want to read
December 1, 2025The Hunted by Nicole Banks
Serial Killers
Meet Cute
Slow burn (but it's spicy)
MMC has no memory of his childhood
slight possessive MMC and FMC
Fiesty FMC
Dexter Vibes( Season 1)
Serial Killer Games
Content Warnings:
-Talks of CSA. There are no on-page scenes, but it’s heavily implied.
-Talks of self-harm-cutting.
- Talks of SA.
-Talks of CNC - consensual non consent.
- Light knife play.
- Murder.
-Keep in mind while the murders seem more vigilante, there will be scenes where that’s not the case.
The Hunted follows the adventures of a couple of serial unalivers who meet and fall in love. We follow Santino Alvarez, deep in the hunt for a serial k!ller known as The Reaper. Santino Alvarez had a troubled past, but a childhood he couldn’t remember. He grew up and became an FBI agent. He put on a front so people wouldn’t ask questions, but behind closed doors, he was a hunter. Until one day, he becomes the hunted. Once he runs into Silva, everything changes.
Serial Killers
Meet Cute
Slow burn (but it's spicy)
MMC has no memory of his childhood
slight possessive MMC and FMC
Fiesty FMC
Dexter Vibes( Season 1)
Serial Killer Games
Content Warnings:
-Talks of CSA. There are no on-page scenes, but it’s heavily implied.
-Talks of self-harm-cutting.
- Talks of SA.
-Talks of CNC - consensual non consent.
- Light knife play.
- Murder.
-Keep in mind while the murders seem more vigilante, there will be scenes where that’s not the case.
The Hunted follows the adventures of a couple of serial unalivers who meet and fall in love. We follow Santino Alvarez, deep in the hunt for a serial k!ller known as The Reaper. Santino Alvarez had a troubled past, but a childhood he couldn’t remember. He grew up and became an FBI agent. He put on a front so people wouldn’t ask questions, but behind closed doors, he was a hunter. Until one day, he becomes the hunted. Once he runs into Silva, everything changes.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 4, 2025
Thank you for offering me an ARC in exchange for my honest review!
The Hunted is an action packed, psychological, high tension romance with a fun side of serial killers. I have been loving serial killer dark romance lately, and this definetly hit the spot! The Hunted was filled with twists and turns, some expected and some a total surprise.
I loved the energy between the MCs! They have this flirty electric banter which had me wiggling my toes and acting like a giddy teenager. If you want a couple that bounce off eachother and don't shy away from some filthy flirting then this is the book for you!
Overall, this was a super fun and interesting read. I could't find anything I disliked which is rare for me!
The Hunted is an action packed, psychological, high tension romance with a fun side of serial killers. I have been loving serial killer dark romance lately, and this definetly hit the spot! The Hunted was filled with twists and turns, some expected and some a total surprise.
I loved the energy between the MCs! They have this flirty electric banter which had me wiggling my toes and acting like a giddy teenager. If you want a couple that bounce off eachother and don't shy away from some filthy flirting then this is the book for you!
Overall, this was a super fun and interesting read. I could't find anything I disliked which is rare for me!
December 23, 2025
ARC: The Hunted — Nicole Banks
"A feral kitten, but in my hands, she purrs." 🔥
Listen. This book? It grabbed me by the throat and refused to let go. I finished it and immediately sat there like, hello??? excuse me??? what am I supposed to do with myself now?
Five stars because I can’t give it six and I’m genuinely offended by that.
Silva and Santino… yeah. That duo is lethal in the best way. Secrets on secrets, tension thick enough to chew on, and when everything finally blows open? I was kicking my feet like an unmedicated Victorian child.
Do they fall apart? Do they claw their way back? Babe, go read it—because I’m still recovering. 🥰
If you love dark romance with thriller vibes, morally gray heroes, and a love story born from chaos, this one is a must-read.
"A feral kitten, but in my hands, she purrs." 🔥
Listen. This book? It grabbed me by the throat and refused to let go. I finished it and immediately sat there like, hello??? excuse me??? what am I supposed to do with myself now?
Five stars because I can’t give it six and I’m genuinely offended by that.
Silva and Santino… yeah. That duo is lethal in the best way. Secrets on secrets, tension thick enough to chew on, and when everything finally blows open? I was kicking my feet like an unmedicated Victorian child.
Do they fall apart? Do they claw their way back? Babe, go read it—because I’m still recovering. 🥰
If you love dark romance with thriller vibes, morally gray heroes, and a love story born from chaos, this one is a must-read.
August 24, 2025
What a psychological mindf*€k this was! I loved it and I’m not usually one who enjoys thinking too much while I read but this had my mind spinning. Santino, a hot as sin FBI agent is with a childhood past, bumps in to the love of his life Silva, at a coffee shop. While he is tracking a serial killer (or two) she changes his everything he thinks he knows about his life, his past, and his case!
Santino and Silva are so amazing together - she’s got him chasing after her in more ways than one and when he catches her, everything they thought they wanted changes in the blink of an eye! So so so good!!
Santino and Silva are so amazing together - she’s got him chasing after her in more ways than one and when he catches her, everything they thought they wanted changes in the blink of an eye! So so so good!!
September 1, 2025
A dark romantic suspense with some vigilante justice, plot twists, tension, and the banter between Santino and Silva is perfect! As an FBI agent, Santino, abides and enforces the law during the day and seeks vengeance at night on those who escape persecution. But one night it seems someone has beat him to the punch and left a message. The hunter becomes the hunted! I loved the dichotomy of his character. Silva is a mystery to Santino, she’s fearless and ferocious, drawing him in even more. But he needs to find out who is coming for him, and fast. That ending, wowza, stumped me!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 1, 2025
Santino is one messed up FBI agent and I loved every second of it. The whole hunter-becomes-the-hunted angle had me second guessing every scene. Silva was such a wild card, sharp enough to hold her ground but also the only one who could actually rattle him. Their banter carried just as much heat as the locker room moment, and that slow burn nearly killed me. The pacing got a little chaotic in spots, like the author couldn’t decide if this was thriller or romance first, but it still worked. That ending had me staring at the page like, seriously, you’re leaving me here?
December 1, 2025
I had no words for this book, literally everything about it is to die for. I’m such a huge Dexter fan so when u heard that this had the same vibes as it, I knew I had to read it instantly. Let me just say this book did not disappoint. I love how well written the characters are and how the storyline s fleshed out along with the characters. If Dexter and Joe had a baby or even a protégé then this right here is it. The spice so good.
Thank you Iris influencer Society and Nicole Banks for allowing me to read this book.
Thank you Iris influencer Society and Nicole Banks for allowing me to read this book.
November 30, 2025
this one delivers exactly what it promises.
The romance is straightforward and predictable in a comforting way.
Their chemistry builds quickly, the danger is ever-present,
and the plot moves at a steady pace without overcomplicating itself.
If you love dark romance with thriller vibes, morally gray heroes, and a love story born from chaos, this one is a must-read.
Thank you for the opportunity to read this book and Iris Influencer Society
The romance is straightforward and predictable in a comforting way.
Their chemistry builds quickly, the danger is ever-present,
and the plot moves at a steady pace without overcomplicating itself.
If you love dark romance with thriller vibes, morally gray heroes, and a love story born from chaos, this one is a must-read.
Thank you for the opportunity to read this book and Iris Influencer Society
December 11, 2025
ARC REVIEW
Fable Rating: 5/5 ⭐
Goodreads Rating: 5/5 ⭐
Genre: Dark Romance
Tropes:
🖤serial unalivers
🖤slow burn (but it’s spicy)
🖤MMC has no memory of his childhood
🖤feisty FMC
🖤slight possessive MMC and FMC
🖤Dexter (s1) vibes
🖤serial unaliver games
Format: ebook
Pages: 368
Spice: 3.5 🌶️
S/S: Monsters and Mayhem
Check trigger warnings for any book
Silva and Santino. So much tension and magnetism. Compelling and addictive.
Lillian - @lillianbookreviews on instagram
Fable Rating: 5/5 ⭐
Goodreads Rating: 5/5 ⭐
Genre: Dark Romance
Tropes:
🖤serial unalivers
🖤slow burn (but it’s spicy)
🖤MMC has no memory of his childhood
🖤feisty FMC
🖤slight possessive MMC and FMC
🖤Dexter (s1) vibes
🖤serial unaliver games
Format: ebook
Pages: 368
Spice: 3.5 🌶️
S/S: Monsters and Mayhem
Check trigger warnings for any book
Silva and Santino. So much tension and magnetism. Compelling and addictive.
Lillian - @lillianbookreviews on instagram
September 10, 2025
An intriguing premise became a thoroughly fascinating and riveting read. I loved the palpable suspense that was so well written, it felt real. I loved the characters who were absolutely fascinating as well with moments that had me wondering what I just read. I was mesmerized by this book. Great story.
I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 1, 2025
Talk about TENSION! Ugh, this book sweeps you up into a world full of action and danger and the slow burn between the main characters was so good, the yearning, the possessiveness it had me craving the next chapter.
This was a whirlwind story, that had you guessing at every turn and I loved it, I genuinely cannot wait for book 2!
This was a whirlwind story, that had you guessing at every turn and I loved it, I genuinely cannot wait for book 2!
December 1, 2025
This is book 1 in a series and a dark romance - please check triggers before reading.
What an interesting premise - an FBI agent (Santino) hunted by a serial killer (Silva) who ends up playing the serial killer's game. This is a slow-burn romance but the chemistry and emotion are intense - I really enjoyed watching the two come together. I can't wait for book 2!
What an interesting premise - an FBI agent (Santino) hunted by a serial killer (Silva) who ends up playing the serial killer's game. This is a slow-burn romance but the chemistry and emotion are intense - I really enjoyed watching the two come together. I can't wait for book 2!
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