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The Reaper Duet #1
Black Heart: Unhinged
I want the cute little intern.
It'll take three seconds to end the guy she's with.
Two to drag her away.
One to make her forget any man but me ever existed.
... And I won't stop until the hunt is complete.
This dark stalker romance is for readers who like their villains feral, their romance brutal, and their endings anything but soft. It can be read as a standalone. It is both books, Black Heart and Red Dreams from the Reaper Duet, combined into one unputdownable read.
It'll take three seconds to end the guy she's with.
Two to drag her away.
One to make her forget any man but me ever existed.
... And I won't stop until the hunt is complete.
This dark stalker romance is for readers who like their villains feral, their romance brutal, and their endings anything but soft. It can be read as a standalone. It is both books, Black Heart and Red Dreams from the Reaper Duet, combined into one unputdownable read.
578 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 6, 2025
1167 people are currently reading
1685 people want to read
About the author
Ketley Allison
88 books885 followersAuthor of Romantic Suspense, New Adult, and mature YA.
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Check out my Amazon Author page!
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Visit me on Facebook!
https://www.facebook.com/ketleyallison
Visit my website!
https://www.ketleyallison.com
Follow me on Instagram!
https://www.instagram.com/ketleyallison
@ketleyallison
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 206 reviews
May 7, 2025
This is my first time reading something by this author.
Kaden Black, a former Second Lieutenant, has made the leap from military life to the civilian world, landing a role as a cybersecurity consultant at a prestigious tech company. However, the mental and physical toll of this desk job pushed him into a darker path after the tragic death of his daughter. For the past decade, he has been consumed by a thirst for revenge, and Layla is now in his sights.
Layla is A proficient computer specialist; Layla has lived a life of isolation until a masked figure enters her world with the intent to kill her over a secret she accidentally discovered one evening after work. Now under his protection, she finds herself inexplicably attracted to him, even as she grapples with the fear that she might just be a tool in his elaborate plan and questions her chances of making it
Layla is the crucial piece Kaden needs for his revenge. He realizes she’s more valuable to him alive than dead, so he starts stalking her, becoming increasingly obsessed and eventually turning possessive and protective.
I might be the only one who feels this way, but the first few chapters truly engaged me with their suspense and mystery, pulling me into the fascinating world of Kaden and Layla, where danger seems to lurk at every turn. However, I noticed that the story began to lose its pace in the middle; some parts felt stretched out and hindered the flow. Even with Kaden's brooding intensity and Layla's clever and strong-willed nature, the ending felt a bit too rushed. And that cliffhanger? Let's just say we all know my stance on those!
I found myself at a crossroads with my OCD, debating whether to push through the pain of finishing this Duet or simply walk away for good…… Only time will show us what’s what... Happy reading, and maybe I’ll see you soon, With the next installment
October 24, 2024
Black Heart by Ketley Allison
3.5 out of 5 stars
Black Heart is my first book by Ketley and I am glad I finally read one of her books. In this novel we follow Kaden Black aka The Scythe. He lost his daughter cruelly and is hell bent on revenge. He used to be on the right side of the law. But after losing his baby girl he became a lethal assassin. Hunting down criminals and following the trail of the man who took his daughter's life. He's ruthless, efficient and feared.
He goes after a new assignment. And when the face of a beautiful young woman pops up he feels in his gut she isn't guilty of any crime and dives into her background to find out why she is on a hitman's list.
That woman is Layla. Who works for a boss that tries to touch her here and there. And when she works late and overhears a conversation between her boss and a criminal her life changes.
Kaden watches her and protects her. Filling her house with cameras and talking through microphones with her. He kills each assassin before they reach her.
And that is what this story is about. It's about a man who's heart is opening up again. And about a woman who hates that she is drawn to such a ruthless man.
I really, really loved the premise of the story. And I do love the story overall. Men with scars always have my heart and I instantly fell in love with Kaden. I love how independent and strong Layla is. And even though the book has an open ending, I loved what Layla does for Kaden.
But I did miss some depth here and there. I wish the scenes where Kaden kills were a bit more intense and gut wrenching. I also wished their chemistry was a bit more powerful and at the forefront of the story. SPOILER ALERT IN THE NEXT SENTENCE: Them going from I am sexually attracted to you to I love you felt really unrealistic and far fetched. They didn't spend enough time together to actually make that jump and let us readers feel it.
I also adoooooooore Kaden's love for his cat and the kittens. Gosh they had my heart. Those sweet little creatures.
All in all a great book! 3.5 big stars from me for this wonderful novel.
3.5 out of 5 stars
Black Heart is my first book by Ketley and I am glad I finally read one of her books. In this novel we follow Kaden Black aka The Scythe. He lost his daughter cruelly and is hell bent on revenge. He used to be on the right side of the law. But after losing his baby girl he became a lethal assassin. Hunting down criminals and following the trail of the man who took his daughter's life. He's ruthless, efficient and feared.
He goes after a new assignment. And when the face of a beautiful young woman pops up he feels in his gut she isn't guilty of any crime and dives into her background to find out why she is on a hitman's list.
That woman is Layla. Who works for a boss that tries to touch her here and there. And when she works late and overhears a conversation between her boss and a criminal her life changes.
Kaden watches her and protects her. Filling her house with cameras and talking through microphones with her. He kills each assassin before they reach her.
And that is what this story is about. It's about a man who's heart is opening up again. And about a woman who hates that she is drawn to such a ruthless man.
I really, really loved the premise of the story. And I do love the story overall. Men with scars always have my heart and I instantly fell in love with Kaden. I love how independent and strong Layla is. And even though the book has an open ending, I loved what Layla does for Kaden.
But I did miss some depth here and there. I wish the scenes where Kaden kills were a bit more intense and gut wrenching. I also wished their chemistry was a bit more powerful and at the forefront of the story. SPOILER ALERT IN THE NEXT SENTENCE: Them going from I am sexually attracted to you to I love you felt really unrealistic and far fetched. They didn't spend enough time together to actually make that jump and let us readers feel it.
I also adoooooooore Kaden's love for his cat and the kittens. Gosh they had my heart. Those sweet little creatures.
All in all a great book! 3.5 big stars from me for this wonderful novel.
November 4, 2024
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️🌶️
This is my first book from Ketley Allison, and she had me hooked from the start. I was on the edge of my seat throughout the entire book. This had so many of my favorite things, mostly a masked hero. I am a sucker for the morally grey or, in this case, assassin masked hero.
Kaden Black "Scythe" was hired to kill Layla when she overhears something she shouldn't have while at work. Her life is in danger for being in the wrong place, but the person who wants her dead happens to be the man Kaden has been searching for. He became an assassin in order to get vengeance on the man who brought tragedy into his life and he was ruthless in his pursuit of justice. He starts stalking and protecting Layla so he can finally get his revenge, but he soon becomes obsessed.
The obsession isn't one-sided, and they team up to stop his enemy. Layla was such a strong and intelligent heroine. She felt like the perfect match for Kaden's damage. The sexual tension and Kaden's dirty talk were so hot.
The 3rd act and the insane cliffhanger have me shook. I did not see the big reveal coming, and I had no idea this was not a standalone, so I am frustrated because I need the conclusion to their romance now! I can't wait for Red Dreams to come out on January 2025.
Side Note: I love his cat reaper and the kittens he took in.
🎧 Audiobook Review 🎧
This audiobook was narrated by Wesley Mercer and Hannah Chiclana with duet narration. They did an amazing job building the sexual tension and suspense. I think this was my first time listening to Wesley Mercer, and I am a fan! The distorted voice was so intense when The Scythe was threatening people or dirty talking in his mask. It was giving me major Kylo Ren vibes. Hannah Mercer brought so much depth to Layla's character and made her such a strong heroine.
Thank you to Valentine PR for providing the ALC.
🌶️🌶️🌶️
This is my first book from Ketley Allison, and she had me hooked from the start. I was on the edge of my seat throughout the entire book. This had so many of my favorite things, mostly a masked hero. I am a sucker for the morally grey or, in this case, assassin masked hero.
Kaden Black "Scythe" was hired to kill Layla when she overhears something she shouldn't have while at work. Her life is in danger for being in the wrong place, but the person who wants her dead happens to be the man Kaden has been searching for. He became an assassin in order to get vengeance on the man who brought tragedy into his life and he was ruthless in his pursuit of justice. He starts stalking and protecting Layla so he can finally get his revenge, but he soon becomes obsessed.
The obsession isn't one-sided, and they team up to stop his enemy. Layla was such a strong and intelligent heroine. She felt like the perfect match for Kaden's damage. The sexual tension and Kaden's dirty talk were so hot.
The 3rd act and the insane cliffhanger have me shook. I did not see the big reveal coming, and I had no idea this was not a standalone, so I am frustrated because I need the conclusion to their romance now! I can't wait for Red Dreams to come out on January 2025.
Side Note: I love his cat reaper and the kittens he took in.
🎧 Audiobook Review 🎧
This audiobook was narrated by Wesley Mercer and Hannah Chiclana with duet narration. They did an amazing job building the sexual tension and suspense. I think this was my first time listening to Wesley Mercer, and I am a fan! The distorted voice was so intense when The Scythe was threatening people or dirty talking in his mask. It was giving me major Kylo Ren vibes. Hannah Mercer brought so much depth to Layla's character and made her such a strong heroine.
Thank you to Valentine PR for providing the ALC.
Read
November 5, 2024Available now!
Grab your copy on Amazon!
Amazon Worldwide: https://mybook.to/black_heart
Audio:
Audible: https://adbl.co/3NTokC0
Apple: https://apple.co/4hvNhkB
Add to Goodreads: https://bit.ly/4g303Gu
Grab your copy on Amazon!
Amazon Worldwide: https://mybook.to/black_heart
Audio:
Audible: https://adbl.co/3NTokC0
Apple: https://apple.co/4hvNhkB
Add to Goodreads: https://bit.ly/4g303Gu
October 7, 2024
This book was a first for me from this author.
The MMC ‘Scythe’ is a hitman, he lost his soul a decade ago and little gets in his way for revenge. When a hit comes across his desk that is not his normal target for the first time it makes him pause and consider protecting rather than profiting.
The FMC Layla is the definition of bad luck, wrong place, wrong time, wrong people, wrong information. She overhears a conversation that is now costing her life. Scythe was sent to take her out but instead has become her avenging dark protector that elicits both fear and want in her.
The plot and premise of the book was good. It started strong with strong characters for both FMC and MMC. Dark and twisted melding with hope and lust.
I didn’t realise this book was going to be a series, something to consider if you like being able to read all at once.
There was a slower burn/action aspect to this book which I enjoyed and followed fine, until about 20% from the end. Ironic I know, suddenly a lot happened at once, it kind of threw off the pace of the book for me, which seemed misplaced being this book ends on a cliffhanger so there was no need to ‘rush’
The plot for the last 20% for me just got me feeling a little sceptical. I don’t want to say too much for spoilers, however, it just seemed a little too dramatic, out of place, unbelievable.
There were also some inconsistencies in the plot that threw me off, which made sense towards the end of the book but kept having me questioning if I’d missed something or misread because one moment it was leading in one direction but then hinting in another.
Also, the last ‘scene’ the FMC it seems to be forgotten completely that she’s lost all her clothes while she’s having conversations and the drama plays out, it would have only taken one sentence to correct that rather than constantly thinking, isn’t she still nude, awkward 🤣
I felt like there was a lot of ‘dramatic descriptions’ in chapters which lengthened it a bit for me and there’s a straight up line from Batman for any nerd fans that just felt cringe and unoriginal.
It wasn’t a bad book or poorly written, it just fell a little flat for me in places and I’m not really drawn in to wanting to read anymore, it just got a little too out of touch at the end for me. Drama over quality.
3⭐️0.5🌶️
I was very fortunate to read the Arc for this book but all opinions and views were my own.
Thank you for the opportunity ValentinePR
#valentinePR
The MMC ‘Scythe’ is a hitman, he lost his soul a decade ago and little gets in his way for revenge. When a hit comes across his desk that is not his normal target for the first time it makes him pause and consider protecting rather than profiting.
The FMC Layla is the definition of bad luck, wrong place, wrong time, wrong people, wrong information. She overhears a conversation that is now costing her life. Scythe was sent to take her out but instead has become her avenging dark protector that elicits both fear and want in her.
The plot and premise of the book was good. It started strong with strong characters for both FMC and MMC. Dark and twisted melding with hope and lust.
I didn’t realise this book was going to be a series, something to consider if you like being able to read all at once.
There was a slower burn/action aspect to this book which I enjoyed and followed fine, until about 20% from the end. Ironic I know, suddenly a lot happened at once, it kind of threw off the pace of the book for me, which seemed misplaced being this book ends on a cliffhanger so there was no need to ‘rush’
The plot for the last 20% for me just got me feeling a little sceptical. I don’t want to say too much for spoilers, however, it just seemed a little too dramatic, out of place, unbelievable.
There were also some inconsistencies in the plot that threw me off, which made sense towards the end of the book but kept having me questioning if I’d missed something or misread because one moment it was leading in one direction but then hinting in another.
Also, the last ‘scene’ the FMC it seems to be forgotten completely that she’s lost all her clothes while she’s having conversations and the drama plays out, it would have only taken one sentence to correct that rather than constantly thinking, isn’t she still nude, awkward 🤣
I felt like there was a lot of ‘dramatic descriptions’ in chapters which lengthened it a bit for me and there’s a straight up line from Batman for any nerd fans that just felt cringe and unoriginal.
It wasn’t a bad book or poorly written, it just fell a little flat for me in places and I’m not really drawn in to wanting to read anymore, it just got a little too out of touch at the end for me. Drama over quality.
3⭐️0.5🌶️
I was very fortunate to read the Arc for this book but all opinions and views were my own.
Thank you for the opportunity ValentinePR
#valentinePR
October 26, 2024
Star Rating: 3.5/5 ⭐
Heat Rating: 2/5 🌶️
What to Expect:
- Dark Romance
- Ex-Military Assassin
- Close Proximity
- Sta1ker
- Possessive Anti-Hero MMC
- Morality Chain
Black Heart is a wild ride! This book is full of suspense, passion, and secrets revealed. Kaden is a tough assassin who wants revenge after losing everything. His life changes when he meets Layla, a smart and brave woman who gets caught in a sticky situation after overhearing a conversation not meant for her ears. Although Kaden has been hired to take Layla out, he is attracted to her and becomes her protector. I enjoyed the development of their relationship and the slow-burn element. They had great chemistry and fun banter. The twists and turns had me on the edge of my seat. Black Heart ends with a cliffhanger, and I can't wait to see how things play out.
Thanks to Ketley Allison and Valentine PR for the gifted eARC. Opinions expressed are my own.
Heat Rating: 2/5 🌶️
What to Expect:
- Dark Romance
- Ex-Military Assassin
- Close Proximity
- Sta1ker
- Possessive Anti-Hero MMC
- Morality Chain
Black Heart is a wild ride! This book is full of suspense, passion, and secrets revealed. Kaden is a tough assassin who wants revenge after losing everything. His life changes when he meets Layla, a smart and brave woman who gets caught in a sticky situation after overhearing a conversation not meant for her ears. Although Kaden has been hired to take Layla out, he is attracted to her and becomes her protector. I enjoyed the development of their relationship and the slow-burn element. They had great chemistry and fun banter. The twists and turns had me on the edge of my seat. Black Heart ends with a cliffhanger, and I can't wait to see how things play out.
Thanks to Ketley Allison and Valentine PR for the gifted eARC. Opinions expressed are my own.
October 11, 2024
♥“𝖆𝖑𝖑 𝖙𝖔 𝖕𝖗𝖔𝖙𝖊𝖈𝖙 𝖒𝖞 𝖜𝖗𝖆𝖎𝖙𝖍𝖑𝖎𝖓𝖌.”♥
⋆｡‧˚ʚ𝚎𝙰𝚁𝙲 𝚛𝚎𝚟𝚒𝚎𝚠ɞ˚‧｡⋆
i want to thank valentine pr & ketley allison for sending me this ARC !!! this is my first book ever read by this author & i ate it upppppp.
we have kaden , who’s basically a contract killer seeking revenge. on his hunt for revenge , his hired to kill layla , who she ends up becoming his obsession. LIKE OKKKKKK. this masked man , grumpy mmc , had me SCREAMING. but that’s all i’m going to say without spoiling , you have to wait until this book releases. 😘
the tension , angst & slow burn was absolutely delicious. you guys all know im a sucker for a grumpy mmc , BUT an mmc that will do anything to protect her ??? SIGN ME UPPP. the lengths this man was going to protect her was absolutely insane & hot. the suspense was killing me , and i was holding my breath the whole time reading this. this was such a good read , i loved it !
layla- we have miss layla , gorgeous stunning girl who’s working her booty off to better herself. she’s a coding girlie who sees & hears too much of an AI program and is now on a dangerous mafias hit list. this poor girl was just trying to live her life & better herself and now she’s stuck in this mess , imagine lol that’s until she’s protected by daddy kaden *screams*
kaden- the literal first page of this book had my heart breaking for this man , like no one should EVER have to go through that. & the way it happened ??? no ma’am. so he had a whole DECADE of revenge being plotted until he finally located the mafia man , morelli. it’s the way this man was obsessed with layla & was doing everything to protect her , like 🫦 look at this one thing he said that had me screaming:
“𝓲𝓯 𝓪𝓷𝔂 𝓸𝓯 𝔂𝓸𝓾 𝓽𝓻𝓲𝓮𝓼 𝓽𝓸 𝓼𝓸 𝓶𝓾𝓬𝓱 𝓾𝓽𝓽𝓮𝓻 𝓱𝓮𝓻 𝓷𝓪𝓶𝓮 , 𝓲’𝓵𝓵 𝓶𝓪𝓴𝓮 𝓼𝓾𝓻𝓮 𝔂𝓸𝓾 𝓵𝓲𝓿𝓮 𝔀𝓲𝓽𝓱𝓸𝓾𝓽 𝓪 𝓽𝓸𝓷𝓰𝓾𝓮 𝓸𝓻 𝓮𝔂𝓮𝓼 𝓯𝓸𝓻 𝓪 𝓯𝓮𝔀 𝓭𝓪𝔂𝓼 𝓯𝓲𝓻𝓼𝓽.”
HELLOOOOOO , marry me LMAOOOOO
oh & the cliffhanger ??? ma’am , I NEED ANSWERS.
i ate this book UPPPPPP. please read this when it releases , thank you. 🖤
releases on october 18th !!!
rating: 5 ⭐️
spice: 2 🌶️
tropes:
♥ close proximity
♥ mafia
♥ anti-hero
♥ morality chain
♥ escaping a killer
♥ stalker
♥ corruption arc
⋆｡‧˚ʚ𝚎𝙰𝚁𝙲 𝚛𝚎𝚟𝚒𝚎𝚠ɞ˚‧｡⋆
i want to thank valentine pr & ketley allison for sending me this ARC !!! this is my first book ever read by this author & i ate it upppppp.
we have kaden , who’s basically a contract killer seeking revenge. on his hunt for revenge , his hired to kill layla , who she ends up becoming his obsession. LIKE OKKKKKK. this masked man , grumpy mmc , had me SCREAMING. but that’s all i’m going to say without spoiling , you have to wait until this book releases. 😘
the tension , angst & slow burn was absolutely delicious. you guys all know im a sucker for a grumpy mmc , BUT an mmc that will do anything to protect her ??? SIGN ME UPPP. the lengths this man was going to protect her was absolutely insane & hot. the suspense was killing me , and i was holding my breath the whole time reading this. this was such a good read , i loved it !
layla- we have miss layla , gorgeous stunning girl who’s working her booty off to better herself. she’s a coding girlie who sees & hears too much of an AI program and is now on a dangerous mafias hit list. this poor girl was just trying to live her life & better herself and now she’s stuck in this mess , imagine lol that’s until she’s protected by daddy kaden *screams*
kaden- the literal first page of this book had my heart breaking for this man , like no one should EVER have to go through that. & the way it happened ??? no ma’am. so he had a whole DECADE of revenge being plotted until he finally located the mafia man , morelli. it’s the way this man was obsessed with layla & was doing everything to protect her , like 🫦 look at this one thing he said that had me screaming:
“𝓲𝓯 𝓪𝓷𝔂 𝓸𝓯 𝔂𝓸𝓾 𝓽𝓻𝓲𝓮𝓼 𝓽𝓸 𝓼𝓸 𝓶𝓾𝓬𝓱 𝓾𝓽𝓽𝓮𝓻 𝓱𝓮𝓻 𝓷𝓪𝓶𝓮 , 𝓲’𝓵𝓵 𝓶𝓪𝓴𝓮 𝓼𝓾𝓻𝓮 𝔂𝓸𝓾 𝓵𝓲𝓿𝓮 𝔀𝓲𝓽𝓱𝓸𝓾𝓽 𝓪 𝓽𝓸𝓷𝓰𝓾𝓮 𝓸𝓻 𝓮𝔂𝓮𝓼 𝓯𝓸𝓻 𝓪 𝓯𝓮𝔀 𝓭𝓪𝔂𝓼 𝓯𝓲𝓻𝓼𝓽.”
HELLOOOOOO , marry me LMAOOOOO
oh & the cliffhanger ??? ma’am , I NEED ANSWERS.
i ate this book UPPPPPP. please read this when it releases , thank you. 🖤
releases on october 18th !!!
rating: 5 ⭐️
spice: 2 🌶️
tropes:
♥ close proximity
♥ mafia
♥ anti-hero
♥ morality chain
♥ escaping a killer
♥ stalker
♥ corruption arc
October 10, 2024
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️ out of 5
Spice: 🌶🌶🌶 out of 5
🖤Dark Romance
🥷Sta1ker
🫂Forced Proximity
🎖Ex-Military Assassin
😈Obsessive OTT Anti-Hero
💀Revenge
❤️🔥Instalu$t
✨️Blurb:
✨️Review
This is a fast paced read with some good action and thrills. The revenge aspect was compelling as to how it connects with the FMC and how Kaden plans to use her as bait for revenge.
I feel that the first 40% or so of Kayden's POV and then when he speaks to Layla though, feel at odds. There are intrinsic moments when he's the more tortured hero and I loved that part, hearing how he's had to give away pieces of his soul to revenge the past 10 years. But then he turns around and talks so dirty all the time to Layla. And it just felt a bit too dubious consent and not getting why Layla liked it.
The lust aspect for a good portion of this just didn't make me feel chemistry with them as I'd hoped. The emotional aspect got pushed by the wayside until after 50% in (and it improved a bit because of that addition)...his psychological damage to me was more fascinating.
There are brief hints at a deeper connection of his pain and their bond but unfortunately it hit later in the book so there wasn't as much exploration to it and by that time the romance felt rushed.
I did like the 3rd act action set piece though! Though it then has a twist at the end that I'm not fully on board with...and feel it's more for shock effect rather than believability. It's left open for a sequel for sure. It's a good quick read though for those that like an obsessive masked MMC.
Spice: 🌶🌶🌶 out of 5
🖤Dark Romance
🥷Sta1ker
🫂Forced Proximity
🎖Ex-Military Assassin
😈Obsessive OTT Anti-Hero
💀Revenge
❤️🔥Instalu$t
✨️Blurb:
✨️Review
This is a fast paced read with some good action and thrills. The revenge aspect was compelling as to how it connects with the FMC and how Kaden plans to use her as bait for revenge.
I feel that the first 40% or so of Kayden's POV and then when he speaks to Layla though, feel at odds. There are intrinsic moments when he's the more tortured hero and I loved that part, hearing how he's had to give away pieces of his soul to revenge the past 10 years. But then he turns around and talks so dirty all the time to Layla. And it just felt a bit too dubious consent and not getting why Layla liked it.
The lust aspect for a good portion of this just didn't make me feel chemistry with them as I'd hoped. The emotional aspect got pushed by the wayside until after 50% in (and it improved a bit because of that addition)...his psychological damage to me was more fascinating.
There are brief hints at a deeper connection of his pain and their bond but unfortunately it hit later in the book so there wasn't as much exploration to it and by that time the romance felt rushed.
I did like the 3rd act action set piece though! Though it then has a twist at the end that I'm not fully on board with...and feel it's more for shock effect rather than believability. It's left open for a sequel for sure. It's a good quick read though for those that like an obsessive masked MMC.
November 8, 2024
I didn’t know it was a duet with the second book coming out in January, so beware of an epic cliffhanger that you’ll need tissues for
I highly recommend it…but if you don’t like waiting, put this in your TBR along with book two, Red Dreams for January 30th
I highly recommend it…but if you don’t like waiting, put this in your TBR along with book two, Red Dreams for January 30th
November 25, 2024
Bad Cliffhanger
I truly do not like cliffhangers. This one was not fun or interesting and it felt like the whole purpose of the book was undone in the final moments. What was the point of going through all that?
I truly do not like cliffhangers. This one was not fun or interesting and it felt like the whole purpose of the book was undone in the final moments. What was the point of going through all that?
October 19, 2024
I received an eARC of Black Heart by Ketley Allison, and I am voluntarily writing this review.
TROPES :-
• Anti-Hero
• Bodyguard
• Close Proximity
• Morality Chain
• Protector and Stalker
• Mafia and Corruption ARC themes
I loved the book, dark romance at its best, and was completely drawn into the storyline. Layla and Kaden were really well-crafted characters. Especially seeing Kaden be protective over Layla was really fun to read. But I wish there were more interactions between them, and if this book gets a sequel, you can count me in to read more about these two. The Reaper was also a really good character, adding a fittingly pessimistic touch to the plot. The cliffhanger leaves the story on a suspenseful note, setting up for whatever comes next. Overall, a very enjoyable read for dark romance lovers!
TROPES :-
• Anti-Hero
• Bodyguard
• Close Proximity
• Morality Chain
• Protector and Stalker
• Mafia and Corruption ARC themes
I loved the book, dark romance at its best, and was completely drawn into the storyline. Layla and Kaden were really well-crafted characters. Especially seeing Kaden be protective over Layla was really fun to read. But I wish there were more interactions between them, and if this book gets a sequel, you can count me in to read more about these two. The Reaper was also a really good character, adding a fittingly pessimistic touch to the plot. The cliffhanger leaves the story on a suspenseful note, setting up for whatever comes next. Overall, a very enjoyable read for dark romance lovers!
January 26, 2025
Warning this ends on a cliffhanger but omg what a book
Layla and Kaden two different people from two different worlds.
Kaden (scythe) has been seeking vengeance for ten years but not found the man yet
Layla caught in a web of deception and corruption finds her way on to scythes web and of course gets caught.
Although the twos paths should never of crossed they have now in more ways than one what will happen next?
Absolutely brilliant book kept me gripped and read in less than 24 hours could not put it down
Looking forward to the next one
5*
Layla and Kaden two different people from two different worlds.
Kaden (scythe) has been seeking vengeance for ten years but not found the man yet
Layla caught in a web of deception and corruption finds her way on to scythes web and of course gets caught.
Although the twos paths should never of crossed they have now in more ways than one what will happen next?
Absolutely brilliant book kept me gripped and read in less than 24 hours could not put it down
Looking forward to the next one
5*
October 27, 2024
Not worth the read. 2 stars for proper grammar and punctuation.
Writing is decent but the author got bogged down by the plot and thinking they were so very clever. It got so boring I ended up skimming to the end. The plot “twist” wasn’t a surprise at all. Is this supposed to be a tragedy because it doesn’t read like even a dark romance. It’s an excuse to write gore.
Writing is decent but the author got bogged down by the plot and thinking they were so very clever. It got so boring I ended up skimming to the end. The plot “twist” wasn’t a surprise at all. Is this supposed to be a tragedy because it doesn’t read like even a dark romance. It’s an excuse to write gore.
February 4, 2025
Such a good book! It had me hooked! When it ended I had to do a double take! Immediately I started the second because I NEED ANSWERS!
October 29, 2024
Jesus I’m blown away by the performances of
Hannah Chiclana and Wesley Mercer!
Their narration on this exciting dark vigilante story was incredible I tell you!
This was my first by Author Ketley Allison and boy oh boy she didn’t disappoint.. I’m sucked into the world of
Of this deliciously dark fast paced romance with plots that will have you on the edge of your seat!
A must listen for sure.
Ok here we go .. (please note to check your triggers before diving into this delicious dark story)
KADEN BLACK
A scared ex-Military with a list of enemies and a vow of revenge and destruction on his agenda, he’s a man with no moral compass and a real sense for what he is capable of doing.
Kaden however was faced with a tasks that would have him questioning his own personal sensibility to his enemies as he now has to protect the person he was supposed to kill!
🖤
✨He must decide whether to claim her ... or kill her.
Kaden Black was hired to end me.
He's a scarred ex-soldier with a list of bodies behind him and a decade-old vow of revenge. I'm the key to drawing out the man who destroyed his life – and now I'm under Kaden's ruthless protection.✨
LAYLA
A very skilled computer specialist who has always been alone until her world was suddenly transformed by the masked man who was sent to kill her because of what she had stumbled upon one night after work.
She is now under this man protection and is undoubtedly drawn to him despite her doubt of whether he wants her as a pawn in his master plan and if she would ever survive the aftermath.
🖤
✨Every camera he installs strips away another layer of my privacy. Every order he barks reminds me I'm trapped. But when rival assassins break in, it's Kaden's brutal efficiency that keeps me breathing.
I tell myself I hate him. That his dangerous allure doesn't drown out my survival instinct. That I don't crave the possessive glint in his eyes when he looks at me.
I'm lying.✨
Yes they both are drawn to each other with a fierce attraction they both can’t describe.
Kayden is confuse as he thought his heart was dead.
As for Layla, she is lost in thought as why she should be feeling this way about a killer a man sent to end her.
🖤
✨As he spirals deeper into obsession, I realize I have a choice to make. Help Kaden hunt down the monsters from his past, or break free and save myself.
But freedom comes at a price. And it might just cost me the one man I can't bear to lose.✨
Ohhh and so it begins! This edge of your seat audiobook
That no doubt will leave you craving the ending as this is a angsty heart racing edgy spicy tale..
And with Hannah Chiclana and Wesley Mercer Telling this story, let’s just say it’s perfection!
You really want to add this to your TBR and listen immediately!
Black Heart is a deliciously dark, obsessive romance with an over-the-top hero with questionable morals and a young woman at his mercy. Warning: mature themes and violence ahead.
I’m on the edge of my seat absolutely breathlessly awaiting the next exciting installment of this story!
REASON TO LISTEN 🎧
🖤Deliciously Dark
♥️Stalker
🤍Violence
🖤Obsessed /Possessive MMC
♥️Morally Grey
🤍Mafia
🖤Cyber Crime
♥️Spice
🖤Vigilante
🖤Touch her and Die vigilante
♥️Forced proximity
♥️Rescues Cat
🖤Unpredictable
Definitely a must Listen for sure
5.⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
3.5 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Really don’t want to miss this !
Thanks for reading my thoughts review and ratings
And thanks to VPR for this amazingly good ALC !
Hope you will enjoy it as much as I did.
Please remember to add to your TBL and give this one a listen soon.
Thanks for reading my review and thoughts, catch you soon on the next one!
@Georgious_eleanorpb 🦋
Hannah Chiclana and Wesley Mercer!
Their narration on this exciting dark vigilante story was incredible I tell you!
This was my first by Author Ketley Allison and boy oh boy she didn’t disappoint.. I’m sucked into the world of
Of this deliciously dark fast paced romance with plots that will have you on the edge of your seat!
A must listen for sure.
Ok here we go .. (please note to check your triggers before diving into this delicious dark story)
KADEN BLACK
A scared ex-Military with a list of enemies and a vow of revenge and destruction on his agenda, he’s a man with no moral compass and a real sense for what he is capable of doing.
Kaden however was faced with a tasks that would have him questioning his own personal sensibility to his enemies as he now has to protect the person he was supposed to kill!
🖤
✨He must decide whether to claim her ... or kill her.
Kaden Black was hired to end me.
He's a scarred ex-soldier with a list of bodies behind him and a decade-old vow of revenge. I'm the key to drawing out the man who destroyed his life – and now I'm under Kaden's ruthless protection.✨
LAYLA
A very skilled computer specialist who has always been alone until her world was suddenly transformed by the masked man who was sent to kill her because of what she had stumbled upon one night after work.
She is now under this man protection and is undoubtedly drawn to him despite her doubt of whether he wants her as a pawn in his master plan and if she would ever survive the aftermath.
🖤
✨Every camera he installs strips away another layer of my privacy. Every order he barks reminds me I'm trapped. But when rival assassins break in, it's Kaden's brutal efficiency that keeps me breathing.
I tell myself I hate him. That his dangerous allure doesn't drown out my survival instinct. That I don't crave the possessive glint in his eyes when he looks at me.
I'm lying.✨
Yes they both are drawn to each other with a fierce attraction they both can’t describe.
Kayden is confuse as he thought his heart was dead.
As for Layla, she is lost in thought as why she should be feeling this way about a killer a man sent to end her.
🖤
✨As he spirals deeper into obsession, I realize I have a choice to make. Help Kaden hunt down the monsters from his past, or break free and save myself.
But freedom comes at a price. And it might just cost me the one man I can't bear to lose.✨
Ohhh and so it begins! This edge of your seat audiobook
That no doubt will leave you craving the ending as this is a angsty heart racing edgy spicy tale..
And with Hannah Chiclana and Wesley Mercer Telling this story, let’s just say it’s perfection!
You really want to add this to your TBR and listen immediately!
Black Heart is a deliciously dark, obsessive romance with an over-the-top hero with questionable morals and a young woman at his mercy. Warning: mature themes and violence ahead.
I’m on the edge of my seat absolutely breathlessly awaiting the next exciting installment of this story!
REASON TO LISTEN 🎧
🖤Deliciously Dark
♥️Stalker
🤍Violence
🖤Obsessed /Possessive MMC
♥️Morally Grey
🤍Mafia
🖤Cyber Crime
♥️Spice
🖤Vigilante
🖤Touch her and Die vigilante
♥️Forced proximity
♥️Rescues Cat
🖤Unpredictable
Definitely a must Listen for sure
5.⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
3.5 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Really don’t want to miss this !
Thanks for reading my thoughts review and ratings
And thanks to VPR for this amazingly good ALC !
Hope you will enjoy it as much as I did.
Please remember to add to your TBL and give this one a listen soon.
Thanks for reading my review and thoughts, catch you soon on the next one!
@Georgious_eleanorpb 🦋
October 20, 2024
Ketley Allison certainly does not disappoint with her new book "Black Heart".
I really liked "Black Heart", although the story did not manage to completely absorb me. As interesting as the book was for me, unfortunately I was not able to fully connect with the characters and be captivated by the story, but I have many positive things to say about it.
Ketley Allison's writing is great. It is detailed and multi-layered both in terms of building the story and in terms of creating the characters in the book. She doesn't just tell, but shows what the characters are like and introduces the plot in a smooth, but at the same time strong and clear way that leaves no room for wondering what will happen here. And this is evident from the first 3-4 pages, because the book begins shockingly and grabbingly.
The dynamics are constant, but this does not mean that the reader does not have time to relax between the scenes that are tenser, because the author has managed to balance the action with calmer ones.
The characters are extremely well built. You can see how much attention has been paid to them and how much effort has been put into them. Through all their dialogues - whether with each other or with one of the other characters, we both learn more about Layla and Kaden, and they themselves build and continue the story through these conversations. Both the characters have their good and bad qualities, traumas from the past that readers manage to get to know and strong personalities that can be seen from what and how they are shaped.
"That striptease you did for me, you thought it was enoght of a ruse to allow you to escape. Instead, all it did was mark you as mine. I've seen you, Wraithling, and I want all of you now.
Their relationship was very interesting for me to follow. The sexual desire for each other is evident from miles from the moment they first meet, however, despite this, their first sexual interaction kind of came out of nowhere for me, while something completely different was happening. Otherwise, the rest of the time, their erotic scenes are superbly written. The author knows how to write so that you feel weak in the knees and you can feel the chemistry between them every time they are near each other.
"If I ever let you scream, it will be with my name on your tongue, begging me to touch you again."
The climax is extremely strong and dynamic, full of action and emotion in the perfect amounts, which makes it very well built. I admit that the plot twist at the end of it was not expected, although I should have guessed earlier where things were going. And yet - it managed to surprise me, with which the book earns bonus points.
"How many more will die?" I whisper, staring at the blood on his hands.
"As many as it takes to keep you safe."
The book ends on a cliff hanger and I would certainly like to read the next book to find out what will happen.
~~~
Rating: 4/5
~~~This book was provided to me by Valentine PR and Ketley Allison for my honest opinion.~~~
I really liked "Black Heart", although the story did not manage to completely absorb me. As interesting as the book was for me, unfortunately I was not able to fully connect with the characters and be captivated by the story, but I have many positive things to say about it.
Ketley Allison's writing is great. It is detailed and multi-layered both in terms of building the story and in terms of creating the characters in the book. She doesn't just tell, but shows what the characters are like and introduces the plot in a smooth, but at the same time strong and clear way that leaves no room for wondering what will happen here. And this is evident from the first 3-4 pages, because the book begins shockingly and grabbingly.
The dynamics are constant, but this does not mean that the reader does not have time to relax between the scenes that are tenser, because the author has managed to balance the action with calmer ones.
The characters are extremely well built. You can see how much attention has been paid to them and how much effort has been put into them. Through all their dialogues - whether with each other or with one of the other characters, we both learn more about Layla and Kaden, and they themselves build and continue the story through these conversations. Both the characters have their good and bad qualities, traumas from the past that readers manage to get to know and strong personalities that can be seen from what and how they are shaped.
"That striptease you did for me, you thought it was enoght of a ruse to allow you to escape. Instead, all it did was mark you as mine. I've seen you, Wraithling, and I want all of you now.
Their relationship was very interesting for me to follow. The sexual desire for each other is evident from miles from the moment they first meet, however, despite this, their first sexual interaction kind of came out of nowhere for me, while something completely different was happening. Otherwise, the rest of the time, their erotic scenes are superbly written. The author knows how to write so that you feel weak in the knees and you can feel the chemistry between them every time they are near each other.
"If I ever let you scream, it will be with my name on your tongue, begging me to touch you again."
The climax is extremely strong and dynamic, full of action and emotion in the perfect amounts, which makes it very well built. I admit that the plot twist at the end of it was not expected, although I should have guessed earlier where things were going. And yet - it managed to surprise me, with which the book earns bonus points.
"How many more will die?" I whisper, staring at the blood on his hands.
"As many as it takes to keep you safe."
The book ends on a cliff hanger and I would certainly like to read the next book to find out what will happen.
~~~
Rating: 4/5
~~~This book was provided to me by Valentine PR and Ketley Allison for my honest opinion.~~~
October 25, 2024
Terrific Story & Narration🎧 Gripping & Intense!
Black Heart
By: Ketley Allison
Narrated by: Hannah Chiclana, Wesley Mercer
“Black Heart” is an intense dark romance novel that hooks you in right from the start, grabbing your attention and holding it hostage the entire time. Former military Kaden Black left the military to start a career in cyber security and focus on his daughter Cassandra, who just finished middle school. All that changed for him when someone murders his daughter, and Kaden’s life goal switches to one of vengeance, to get the person responsible for his daughter’s death with a new career as a paid assassin going by the name Scythe. His latest assignment is unlike any he has had before, targets that are usually affiliated with the underworld, except this target is a young woman interning in a tech company. After finding out why she is a target, he not only vows to protect her, but plans on using her to get to the one he has been searching for ten years, Frank Morelli, the person who is unreachable and the one responsible for his daughter’s death. Layla Verona took this internship because it was going to be in into the tech world, and she liked her job despite working with a creep of a boss, Emmitt Dawson. Working late one night, she overhears a conversation between her boss and an unknown man, one that appears dangerous. She thought she escaped, but that was not the case, since someone put out a hit on her. Then she gets a guardian angel, or is he is the devil himself? There is never a dull moment in this book and there are a lot of layers to the story, a story that is cleverly plotted with drama, angst, thrilling suspense, heartfelt emotions, and a steamy romance. It was great these two navigate an odd relationship, and get to know each other. Kaden was possessive and overprotective, but Layla was no puppet and gave as good as she got. I admired her guts and bravery, she was fierce and that ending, wow, an ending that leaves you wanting, not make that needing more.
🎧📚🎧Ketley Allison chose the perfect cast to bring her characters to life, Hannah Chiclana and Wesley Mercer fantastic voice artists and they did an amazing job humanizing and voicing the characters. I loved how they took their roles and made them their own, sounding believable and just as I imagined the characters to sound. Chiclana showcased every aspect of Layla’s personality, from her fierceness to her strength and determination, and Mercer did the same as Kaden, from the possessive, over protective alpha and switching it up as the killer Scythe. Both were just as great performing the roles of the secondary characters too. Their pacing and tone were on par with the story and they captured all the characters’ emotions and had you feeling them all. These two made a great team, with voices and talent that complement one another and a performance that elevates the story to another level. They are entertaining storytellers and a pleasure to listen to.
Black Heart
By: Ketley Allison
Narrated by: Hannah Chiclana, Wesley Mercer
“Black Heart” is an intense dark romance novel that hooks you in right from the start, grabbing your attention and holding it hostage the entire time. Former military Kaden Black left the military to start a career in cyber security and focus on his daughter Cassandra, who just finished middle school. All that changed for him when someone murders his daughter, and Kaden’s life goal switches to one of vengeance, to get the person responsible for his daughter’s death with a new career as a paid assassin going by the name Scythe. His latest assignment is unlike any he has had before, targets that are usually affiliated with the underworld, except this target is a young woman interning in a tech company. After finding out why she is a target, he not only vows to protect her, but plans on using her to get to the one he has been searching for ten years, Frank Morelli, the person who is unreachable and the one responsible for his daughter’s death. Layla Verona took this internship because it was going to be in into the tech world, and she liked her job despite working with a creep of a boss, Emmitt Dawson. Working late one night, she overhears a conversation between her boss and an unknown man, one that appears dangerous. She thought she escaped, but that was not the case, since someone put out a hit on her. Then she gets a guardian angel, or is he is the devil himself? There is never a dull moment in this book and there are a lot of layers to the story, a story that is cleverly plotted with drama, angst, thrilling suspense, heartfelt emotions, and a steamy romance. It was great these two navigate an odd relationship, and get to know each other. Kaden was possessive and overprotective, but Layla was no puppet and gave as good as she got. I admired her guts and bravery, she was fierce and that ending, wow, an ending that leaves you wanting, not make that needing more.
🎧📚🎧Ketley Allison chose the perfect cast to bring her characters to life, Hannah Chiclana and Wesley Mercer fantastic voice artists and they did an amazing job humanizing and voicing the characters. I loved how they took their roles and made them their own, sounding believable and just as I imagined the characters to sound. Chiclana showcased every aspect of Layla’s personality, from her fierceness to her strength and determination, and Mercer did the same as Kaden, from the possessive, over protective alpha and switching it up as the killer Scythe. Both were just as great performing the roles of the secondary characters too. Their pacing and tone were on par with the story and they captured all the characters’ emotions and had you feeling them all. These two made a great team, with voices and talent that complement one another and a performance that elevates the story to another level. They are entertaining storytellers and a pleasure to listen to.
October 29, 2024
Black Heart is my first book by Ketley Allison and I have to say I did enjoy listening to it. I am not sure why but it took me a bit to get into the story, but once I understood what was happening I soon became enthralled in the story, intrigued by what would happen next. The narration was great and the Voice actors who told the story are also both new to me. Hannah Chiclana and Wesley Mercer They were excellent. They really portrayed the characters in a wonderful way expressing the emotions perfectly, also the sound effects of Kaden's voice was a brilliant touch, making him more sinister. I enjoyed their storytelling and hope they have more books I can listen to by them. This is the story of an assassin known as Scythe but whose real name is Kaden, he never used to be an assassin he had a normal life. An ex soldier with a daughter. But that was in the past before his daughter was killed and now he is out for revenge on the man who killed her. Layla is the innocent who gets caught in the crossfire of that revenge...Layla is a tech intern working late one night she overhears something she shouldn't have...,and now she is the target of a mafia criminal the same man who killed Kaden's daughter. As different hitmen are sent to kill her Kaden intervenes to protect her and also use her as bait, what Kaden didn't bargain on was the attraction he feels for Layla, which could be his undoing. Layla is also mysteriously attracted to this dark masked man who seems to make her do things she would never do and behave in a way that is alien to her.
Layla first appears to be shy and weak but she is anything but that she is determined and defiant and also holds a power over Kaden she doesn't even realize because she makes him feel things also, which makes him weak as he cares for her. This is a suspenseful and steamy book and anyone who likes their male characters to be dark, tortured, possessive and obsessive, also a bit stalkerish..then they will love Kaden Black/Scythe and his cruel brutish ways. There is also a shocking twist to the story that I never seen coming and a cliff hanger that makes me want to listen to the next book...So Bravo to Ketley Allison for writing such an intoxicating book. I listened with fascination as I didn't know what would happen as Layla is embroiled into a dark world. Thoroughly enjoyed it.
5 Stars.- Cat W.
Layla first appears to be shy and weak but she is anything but that she is determined and defiant and also holds a power over Kaden she doesn't even realize because she makes him feel things also, which makes him weak as he cares for her. This is a suspenseful and steamy book and anyone who likes their male characters to be dark, tortured, possessive and obsessive, also a bit stalkerish..then they will love Kaden Black/Scythe and his cruel brutish ways. There is also a shocking twist to the story that I never seen coming and a cliff hanger that makes me want to listen to the next book...So Bravo to Ketley Allison for writing such an intoxicating book. I listened with fascination as I didn't know what would happen as Layla is embroiled into a dark world. Thoroughly enjoyed it.
5 Stars.- Cat W.
October 14, 2024
Holy cow! I'm on a roll with assassins and their prey and the Scythe is one deadly dude. Layla and Kaden are two individuals from starkly different worlds who find their fates intertwined in a web of vengeance, deception, and corruption.
Kaden Black "Scythe" is a ruthless hitman who has long forsaken his humanity in pursuit of revenge. His quest for vengeance has become a personal mission, driving him to a relentless pursuit of justice. However, when a hit crosses his path that challenges his usual MO, he finds himself torn between his instincts for self-preservation and an unexpected desire to protect the target.
Layla Verona finds herself in the wrong place at the wrong time. After overhearing a conversation that endangers her life, she becomes the subject of an assassin's assignment. However, instead of carrying out the hit, the assassin becomes her unlikely guardian, evoking both fear and attraction within Layla.
The passion is over the top with Kaden and Layla as they struggle with their feelings and battle unseen forces determined to kill them. Kaden's story is heartbreaking and I wanted him to succeed in his vengeance. Layla is brave and surprisingly adept at surviving as she thwarts adversity. Her loneliness is palpable and complements the part of Kaden that wants to protect. I desperately wanted these two to find peace, but the shocking ending has me begging for the next book in the series.
If you love gripping tales of suspense, intrigue, and smoldering passion, pick up this book. It won't disappoint.
Thank you to Ms. Allison for giving me the opportunity to read this book with no expectation of a positive review.
Kaden Black "Scythe" is a ruthless hitman who has long forsaken his humanity in pursuit of revenge. His quest for vengeance has become a personal mission, driving him to a relentless pursuit of justice. However, when a hit crosses his path that challenges his usual MO, he finds himself torn between his instincts for self-preservation and an unexpected desire to protect the target.
Layla Verona finds herself in the wrong place at the wrong time. After overhearing a conversation that endangers her life, she becomes the subject of an assassin's assignment. However, instead of carrying out the hit, the assassin becomes her unlikely guardian, evoking both fear and attraction within Layla.
The passion is over the top with Kaden and Layla as they struggle with their feelings and battle unseen forces determined to kill them. Kaden's story is heartbreaking and I wanted him to succeed in his vengeance. Layla is brave and surprisingly adept at surviving as she thwarts adversity. Her loneliness is palpable and complements the part of Kaden that wants to protect. I desperately wanted these two to find peace, but the shocking ending has me begging for the next book in the series.
If you love gripping tales of suspense, intrigue, and smoldering passion, pick up this book. It won't disappoint.
Thank you to Ms. Allison for giving me the opportunity to read this book with no expectation of a positive review.
October 13, 2024
Thank you for sending me an ARC in exchange for my honest opinion!
Disclaimer, just so you know, this book does end on a cliffhanger.
Black Heart is about Layla and Kayden. Layla works at a tech company and Kayden used to be a soldier. When Layla stays longer one night, she overhears something she shouldn’t which puts a target on her back. Kayden, having his own reasons, makes it his mission to protect Layla.
If you're a fan of the Dark Verse series, particularly The Predator, this one is definitely for you. Kayden circles Layla with the intensity of a predator stalking its prey, torn between the desire to claim her and the impulse to end her. However, one thing remains certain: he will eliminate anyone who dares to come near her. The simmering tension between them keeps us on edge, while Layla, a clever and resourceful woman, uses this to her advantage, attempting to distract Kayden while captivating him with her calculated allure.
This book masterfully blends elements of mafia romance, the intrigue of cyber security, and the warmth of found family. The friendship between Layla and Ethan adds heart to the story, with their bond providing both humor and depth. Kayden, a tortured soul haunted by his past, is determined to shield Layla from history repeating itself, which adds layers of tension and vulnerability to his character. The plot is gripping, and the emotional stakes are high, making it a compelling read for fans of high-stakes romance and deep character connections. I cannot wait for the second book in the series to see how the story continues!
Disclaimer, just so you know, this book does end on a cliffhanger.
Black Heart is about Layla and Kayden. Layla works at a tech company and Kayden used to be a soldier. When Layla stays longer one night, she overhears something she shouldn’t which puts a target on her back. Kayden, having his own reasons, makes it his mission to protect Layla.
If you're a fan of the Dark Verse series, particularly The Predator, this one is definitely for you. Kayden circles Layla with the intensity of a predator stalking its prey, torn between the desire to claim her and the impulse to end her. However, one thing remains certain: he will eliminate anyone who dares to come near her. The simmering tension between them keeps us on edge, while Layla, a clever and resourceful woman, uses this to her advantage, attempting to distract Kayden while captivating him with her calculated allure.
This book masterfully blends elements of mafia romance, the intrigue of cyber security, and the warmth of found family. The friendship between Layla and Ethan adds heart to the story, with their bond providing both humor and depth. Kayden, a tortured soul haunted by his past, is determined to shield Layla from history repeating itself, which adds layers of tension and vulnerability to his character. The plot is gripping, and the emotional stakes are high, making it a compelling read for fans of high-stakes romance and deep character connections. I cannot wait for the second book in the series to see how the story continues!
October 16, 2024
Black Heart by Ketley Allison is a gripping, dark romance that pulls you in from the first page and doesn’t let go. The story centers around Kaden, a ruthless vigilante fueled by revenge, and Layla, a brilliant yet isolated programmer who stumbles upon dangerous knowledge at her startup tech company. This discovery puts Layla in the crosshairs of some sinister figures, and when the contract to eliminate her lands in Kaden’s inbox, things take an unexpected turn.
Known in the underground as The Scythe, Kaden is intrigued rather than indifferent. Instead of carrying out the hit, he decides to protect Layla, but in true Kaden fashion, it’s on his own obsessive terms—via remote surveillance and stalking. His intense attraction to her, coupled with his endgame goals, creates a tension-filled dynamic that will have you glued to the pages.
The chemistry between Kaden and Layla is electric, with their fierce attraction and constant push-pull making the story irresistible. The way Kaden uses his dark skills to both control and protect Layla adds layers of complexity to his character, and Layla’s transformation from a loner to someone fiercely fighting for her life is compelling.
The twist at the end is jaw-dropping and will leave readers desperate for the next installment. Black Heart is a thrilling, seductive ride that’s perfect for fans of dark romance who enjoy characters that toe the line between danger and desire. This book is impossible to put down, and the cliffhanger will leave you craving more. Book 2 can’t come soon enough!
Known in the underground as The Scythe, Kaden is intrigued rather than indifferent. Instead of carrying out the hit, he decides to protect Layla, but in true Kaden fashion, it’s on his own obsessive terms—via remote surveillance and stalking. His intense attraction to her, coupled with his endgame goals, creates a tension-filled dynamic that will have you glued to the pages.
The chemistry between Kaden and Layla is electric, with their fierce attraction and constant push-pull making the story irresistible. The way Kaden uses his dark skills to both control and protect Layla adds layers of complexity to his character, and Layla’s transformation from a loner to someone fiercely fighting for her life is compelling.
The twist at the end is jaw-dropping and will leave readers desperate for the next installment. Black Heart is a thrilling, seductive ride that’s perfect for fans of dark romance who enjoy characters that toe the line between danger and desire. This book is impossible to put down, and the cliffhanger will leave you craving more. Book 2 can’t come soon enough!
October 25, 2024
3 ⭐ (please note that this book ends on a cliffhanger)
Black Heart by Ketley Allison hooks you from the start with its dark allure, suspenseful setting, and characters who seem ripe for an explosive romance. The initial chapters deliver intrigue and mystery, pulling readers into Kaden and Layla’s world with a hint of danger. Individually, they’re captivating—Kaden with his brooding intensity and Layla with her witty and resilient charm. But when sparks are supposed to fly between them, something feels off. The relationship leaps from intrigue to possessiveness and bold declarations without the emotional buildup to make it believable. Rather than a smoldering romance, we get drama that feels unearned.
After a promising start, the story loses momentum in the middle, with sections that drag on and slow the pace. Just when things should be heating up, the plot feels stretched, almost like it’s holding back in anticipation of the next book. And while a climactic twist finally hits, it feels more like a last-minute twist to keep readers on the hook rather than a deeply impactful moment.
Allison’s writing is catchy, and there’s potential here for a truly gripping series. If the sequel can deepen the characters’ emotional bond and iron out the pacing issues, this story could evolve into something unforgettable. For now, Black Heart is a suspenseful, darkly intriguing start but doesn’t quite hit its mark for me.
*I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. My thoughts and rating are entirely my own and were not influenced by receiving the ARC.
Black Heart by Ketley Allison hooks you from the start with its dark allure, suspenseful setting, and characters who seem ripe for an explosive romance. The initial chapters deliver intrigue and mystery, pulling readers into Kaden and Layla’s world with a hint of danger. Individually, they’re captivating—Kaden with his brooding intensity and Layla with her witty and resilient charm. But when sparks are supposed to fly between them, something feels off. The relationship leaps from intrigue to possessiveness and bold declarations without the emotional buildup to make it believable. Rather than a smoldering romance, we get drama that feels unearned.
After a promising start, the story loses momentum in the middle, with sections that drag on and slow the pace. Just when things should be heating up, the plot feels stretched, almost like it’s holding back in anticipation of the next book. And while a climactic twist finally hits, it feels more like a last-minute twist to keep readers on the hook rather than a deeply impactful moment.
Allison’s writing is catchy, and there’s potential here for a truly gripping series. If the sequel can deepen the characters’ emotional bond and iron out the pacing issues, this story could evolve into something unforgettable. For now, Black Heart is a suspenseful, darkly intriguing start but doesn’t quite hit its mark for me.
*I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. My thoughts and rating are entirely my own and were not influenced by receiving the ARC.
October 11, 2024
"Oh yeah? And what will you do now that you have me?"
"Everything you've been too afraid to ask for."
4 out of 5 Stars
2 out of 5 in Spice
Mafia (not a mafia romance)
Revenge
Forced Proximity
Touch Her & Die
Obsessed/Possessive MMC
Stalking
Dual POV
Cliffhanger
Firstly I want to thank Valentine PR for allowing me to receive Black Heart by Ketley Allison as an ARC. I always love taking chances on authors I've never read books from before. I have yet to be disappointed.
Kaden Black aka Sycthe is the man you want to hire when you want someone tkane out of the equation. He is a deadly assassin who has never failed on any of the jobs he has taken. He is a man who is driven by his obsession with revenge.
Layla Verona is a young woman who works as a tech intern, she's also too smart for that job. She discovers secrets and someone from Kaden's past doesn't want her knowing too much. A price is put on her head, Sycthe passes on the job but decides he must protect the girl not to mention he is also intrigued by her unique feature.
This is honestly a fast read and a very and I mean prolonged burn. There isn't much spice in this book. The majority of the time the two wanted each other but Sycthe kept denying his feelings. When the spice arrived, it was actual foreplay. The book does have some twists and turns at the end of it, and does end with a major cliffhanger.
I look forward to the next book to see life takes the two.
Happy Reading.
"Everything you've been too afraid to ask for."
4 out of 5 Stars
2 out of 5 in Spice
Mafia (not a mafia romance)
Revenge
Forced Proximity
Touch Her & Die
Obsessed/Possessive MMC
Stalking
Dual POV
Cliffhanger
Firstly I want to thank Valentine PR for allowing me to receive Black Heart by Ketley Allison as an ARC. I always love taking chances on authors I've never read books from before. I have yet to be disappointed.
Kaden Black aka Sycthe is the man you want to hire when you want someone tkane out of the equation. He is a deadly assassin who has never failed on any of the jobs he has taken. He is a man who is driven by his obsession with revenge.
Layla Verona is a young woman who works as a tech intern, she's also too smart for that job. She discovers secrets and someone from Kaden's past doesn't want her knowing too much. A price is put on her head, Sycthe passes on the job but decides he must protect the girl not to mention he is also intrigued by her unique feature.
This is honestly a fast read and a very and I mean prolonged burn. There isn't much spice in this book. The majority of the time the two wanted each other but Sycthe kept denying his feelings. When the spice arrived, it was actual foreplay. The book does have some twists and turns at the end of it, and does end with a major cliffhanger.
I look forward to the next book to see life takes the two.
Happy Reading.
October 15, 2024
black hearts by ketley allison
rating: 3.75 stars rounded up to 4
quote: “and what happens when there’s no one left to kill?” i whisper. “i will always kill for you”
black heart is a dark romance with a bit of thriller in there. it follows kaden (scythe) and layla and how their lives become intertwined and both haunted by traumatic pasts. kaden is contracted to kill layla but when he can’t do it, and realises she’s the key to getting his revenge, he vows to protect her at all costs but both didn’t expect to feel anything for each other, until they did 🤭 he’s possessive and obsessed and she’s smart and strong and i liked both their character traits a lot!
this book is not very long and is quite fast paced however i did enjoy it. the only reason i didn’t give it a 4 stars is because i wanted more! i would’ve enjoyed seeing more resistance from layla against kaden’s stalking and security system at least for a few more chapters but i completely understood this was the pace of the book.
i loved reaper and the name for the cat worked so well for kaden’s personality. automatic star when there’s a cat involved in a story 🐈⬛
the plot twist at the end was not expected and definitely shocked me at the end! the cliffhanger had me in a chokehold and i can’t wait to read more!!!
read this book if you love:
🖤 anti-hero
🖤 dark romance
🖤 mafia
🖤 close proximity
thank you ketley allison & valentine pr for the arc 🫶🏻
rating: 3.75 stars rounded up to 4
quote: “and what happens when there’s no one left to kill?” i whisper. “i will always kill for you”
black heart is a dark romance with a bit of thriller in there. it follows kaden (scythe) and layla and how their lives become intertwined and both haunted by traumatic pasts. kaden is contracted to kill layla but when he can’t do it, and realises she’s the key to getting his revenge, he vows to protect her at all costs but both didn’t expect to feel anything for each other, until they did 🤭 he’s possessive and obsessed and she’s smart and strong and i liked both their character traits a lot!
this book is not very long and is quite fast paced however i did enjoy it. the only reason i didn’t give it a 4 stars is because i wanted more! i would’ve enjoyed seeing more resistance from layla against kaden’s stalking and security system at least for a few more chapters but i completely understood this was the pace of the book.
i loved reaper and the name for the cat worked so well for kaden’s personality. automatic star when there’s a cat involved in a story 🐈⬛
the plot twist at the end was not expected and definitely shocked me at the end! the cliffhanger had me in a chokehold and i can’t wait to read more!!!
read this book if you love:
🖤 anti-hero
🖤 dark romance
🖤 mafia
🖤 close proximity
thank you ketley allison & valentine pr for the arc 🫶🏻
October 19, 2024
Babes, if you’re into dark, obsessive romance with a hitman who’s ALL about revenge, you need Black Heart on your TBR ASAP!
Meet Kaden Black, aka the Scythe, a ruthless ex-soldier with a tragic past. He was supposed to unalive Layla, but instead?
He becomes obsessed. The man installs cameras everywhere, but instead of being creeped out…you kinda get it. When the assassins come for her? He handles business, and it’s HOT. 🔥
Layla? Total queen—she’s strong, tech-savvy, and caught in the wrong place at the wrong time. Mafia drama meets coding girlie vibes, and now she’s stuck with daddy Kaden. I’m SCREAMING. 😱
Kaden: “If any of you even think about her name, I’ll make sure you live without a tongue or eyes for a few days first.”😳 Marry me, hello?!
I devoured this book, and let me just say, the slow burn had me holding my breath!
The chemistry between Kaden and Layla? Off. The. Charts.🔥
The back-and-forth between hating and wanting, and the way Kaden protects her with that “morally grey” charm?? Swoon. 😫
And then that ending?! 😱 Babes, I need the next book NOW. That cliffhanger? Cruel. I’m officially screaming into the void. How am I supposed to wait?! 😩
This story pulls you in with every chapter, and the final twist left me wrecked in the best way.
If you love possessive, protective anti-heroes with an obsession that turns dangerous, then get ready because Black Heart will consume you.🖤
Meet Kaden Black, aka the Scythe, a ruthless ex-soldier with a tragic past. He was supposed to unalive Layla, but instead?
He becomes obsessed. The man installs cameras everywhere, but instead of being creeped out…you kinda get it. When the assassins come for her? He handles business, and it’s HOT. 🔥
Layla? Total queen—she’s strong, tech-savvy, and caught in the wrong place at the wrong time. Mafia drama meets coding girlie vibes, and now she’s stuck with daddy Kaden. I’m SCREAMING. 😱
Kaden: “If any of you even think about her name, I’ll make sure you live without a tongue or eyes for a few days first.”😳 Marry me, hello?!
I devoured this book, and let me just say, the slow burn had me holding my breath!
The chemistry between Kaden and Layla? Off. The. Charts.🔥
The back-and-forth between hating and wanting, and the way Kaden protects her with that “morally grey” charm?? Swoon. 😫
And then that ending?! 😱 Babes, I need the next book NOW. That cliffhanger? Cruel. I’m officially screaming into the void. How am I supposed to wait?! 😩
This story pulls you in with every chapter, and the final twist left me wrecked in the best way.
If you love possessive, protective anti-heroes with an obsession that turns dangerous, then get ready because Black Heart will consume you.🖤
December 30, 2024
Solid 4.5 / 5 ⭐ rating. Better buckle-up, buttercup; this one's DARK. I guarantee you didn't see that end coming. If you're hoping for an HEA, you won't get it. 💔 If you're hoping for moments where the morally black villain takes on a shade of grey, you won't get it. 🖤
The Scythe is a trained contract killer and that's all he can be. ☠️ Layla was just in the wrong place at the wrong time and is now suffering the consequences. There is no "LOVE" here.
This isn't a story about The Scythe though; it's about Cassie and Layla, his daughter he couldn't protect and the woman he was sent to kill. Both are his obsession. Both are his possession. Every move Layla makes just seems to further widen the gap between them. He says he will always kill for her, but it doesn't mean he will always be there for her. ⚔️
This is what Dark Romance is supposed to feel like; there isn't a shred of happiness in this novel. 😭 I believe Layla makes The Scythe feel things he has locked away for the last decade but he is quick to acknowledge that it will not change him as a person; he doesn't care if the Mafia sells the AI tech on the Black Market, nor does he care if other people die as a result of his apathy. He is NOT a hero. 🚫
The question is: Is that the end of Layla's story with The Scythe? I would hope not, but as it stands, history is set to repeat itself, and unless I hear otherwise there is no mention of a sequel or continuation for this story.
The Scythe is a trained contract killer and that's all he can be. ☠️ Layla was just in the wrong place at the wrong time and is now suffering the consequences. There is no "LOVE" here.
This isn't a story about The Scythe though; it's about Cassie and Layla, his daughter he couldn't protect and the woman he was sent to kill. Both are his obsession. Both are his possession. Every move Layla makes just seems to further widen the gap between them. He says he will always kill for her, but it doesn't mean he will always be there for her. ⚔️
This is what Dark Romance is supposed to feel like; there isn't a shred of happiness in this novel. 😭 I believe Layla makes The Scythe feel things he has locked away for the last decade but he is quick to acknowledge that it will not change him as a person; he doesn't care if the Mafia sells the AI tech on the Black Market, nor does he care if other people die as a result of his apathy. He is NOT a hero. 🚫
The question is: Is that the end of Layla's story with The Scythe? I would hope not, but as it stands, history is set to repeat itself, and unless I hear otherwise there is no mention of a sequel or continuation for this story.
October 17, 2024
It has been a while since I've read anything by this author, so I was excited when I saw this one come up. The storyline really piqued my interest.
Despite the blurb, I wasn't really sure what I was expecting going into this, so reading the prologue really throws you off kilter and makes you realise how the Scythe was born.
Right away you're drawn into this Web of suspense and intrigue. The story was fast-paced and the writing flowed really well for the most part. I felt there were a couple areas that could have possibly used some rearranging.
Regardless of this, I found the writing addictive. The Scythe was this hardened, emotionless unaliver that begins to thaw for the innocence he sees in Layla. I enjoyed the storyline, it was a little different and not what I expected but that's the beauty of this story.
I didn't quite feel a connection between the two until towards the end. I feel like the Scythe had too much control over Kaden to allow him to feel too soon.
Towards the end, I was on the edge of my seat, not knowing what was going to happen. Karen trying to find answers he's been searching for only to have that bombshell dropped! Gotta say, I was not expecting that! I'm also not quite sure how I feel about it!
Overall a good book and an enjoyable read. I can't wait to see what happens next!
Despite the blurb, I wasn't really sure what I was expecting going into this, so reading the prologue really throws you off kilter and makes you realise how the Scythe was born.
Right away you're drawn into this Web of suspense and intrigue. The story was fast-paced and the writing flowed really well for the most part. I felt there were a couple areas that could have possibly used some rearranging.
Regardless of this, I found the writing addictive. The Scythe was this hardened, emotionless unaliver that begins to thaw for the innocence he sees in Layla. I enjoyed the storyline, it was a little different and not what I expected but that's the beauty of this story.
I didn't quite feel a connection between the two until towards the end. I feel like the Scythe had too much control over Kaden to allow him to feel too soon.
Towards the end, I was on the edge of my seat, not knowing what was going to happen. Karen trying to find answers he's been searching for only to have that bombshell dropped! Gotta say, I was not expecting that! I'm also not quite sure how I feel about it!
Overall a good book and an enjoyable read. I can't wait to see what happens next!
November 25, 2024
I am a sucker for a good dark romance and this book sucked me right in! Stalker? Bodyguard? Mafia? Say no more - sign me up IMMEDIATELY!
I love a good anti-hero and Kaden checks all of the boxes. He’s an ex-soldier turned hit man after the tragic death of his daughter. He’s hell bent on a decade long rampage for revenge and his next target is Layla: sweet, innocent tech genius who was in the wrong place at the wrong time and stumbled upon a dark secret, thrusting her into the eyes of the mafia.
However.. Layla appears to be the key that Kaden needs to get his revenge. Worth more to him alive than dead, he turns to stalking Layla, obsessing over her, eventually becoming possessive and protective.
Can they withstand the odds and work together to take down the (worse) bad guys, or are they doomed from the start?
When I started this book, I had NO idea it was the first in a duet so when the book ended on a massive cliffhanger (and a huge twist!!!), I was SHOOK. I am counting down the days for the release of part 2 and I cannot wait to absolutely devour it!
This was my first ever Ketley read and definitely won’t be my last. I cannot wait to dive into the rest of her work!
I love a good anti-hero and Kaden checks all of the boxes. He’s an ex-soldier turned hit man after the tragic death of his daughter. He’s hell bent on a decade long rampage for revenge and his next target is Layla: sweet, innocent tech genius who was in the wrong place at the wrong time and stumbled upon a dark secret, thrusting her into the eyes of the mafia.
However.. Layla appears to be the key that Kaden needs to get his revenge. Worth more to him alive than dead, he turns to stalking Layla, obsessing over her, eventually becoming possessive and protective.
Can they withstand the odds and work together to take down the (worse) bad guys, or are they doomed from the start?
When I started this book, I had NO idea it was the first in a duet so when the book ended on a massive cliffhanger (and a huge twist!!!), I was SHOOK. I am counting down the days for the release of part 2 and I cannot wait to absolutely devour it!
This was my first ever Ketley read and definitely won’t be my last. I cannot wait to dive into the rest of her work!
October 11, 2024
Thank you @ketleyallison and @valentine_pr_ for an advanced copy of Black Heart!
“𝗕𝘂𝘁 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝘃𝗼𝗶𝗰𝗲 𝗺𝗮𝗸𝗲𝘀 𝗺𝘆 𝗻𝗮𝗺𝗲 𝘀𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗱 𝗹𝗶𝗸𝗲 𝗮 𝗽𝗿𝗼𝗺𝗶𝘀𝗲. 𝗜 𝗻𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿 𝘁𝗵𝗼𝘂𝗴𝗵𝘁 𝗜’𝗱 𝘄𝗮𝗻𝘁 𝘁𝗼 𝗵𝗲𝗮𝗿 𝗺𝘆 𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗹 𝗻𝗮𝗺𝗲 𝗮𝗴𝗮𝗶𝗻.”
When I say this book had me on the edge of my seat, I mean completely hooked! I am absolutely in LOVE. It had me swooning, laughing, crying, and screaming—all the emotions. I devoured this book because I just couldn’t get enough, and then that ending 😱! Watching Kaden slowly fall for Layla and break down his walls with every chapter had me smiling. Their chemistry and banter? ✨chef's kiss✨ so, so good! And let me just say, WRAITHLING?! My heart jumped every time he called her his wraithling!
This book has it all—grumpy anti-hero (and masked!) MMC, sassy and tech savvy heroine, stalker, close proximity, you name it! We love a morally grey protective MMC who is 1000% obsessed.
I can’t wait for you all to read Kaden and Layla’s story, it’s a 5 star for me!
Black Heart drops on October 18th, and trust me, you don’t want to miss it!
“𝗕𝘂𝘁 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝘃𝗼𝗶𝗰𝗲 𝗺𝗮𝗸𝗲𝘀 𝗺𝘆 𝗻𝗮𝗺𝗲 𝘀𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗱 𝗹𝗶𝗸𝗲 𝗮 𝗽𝗿𝗼𝗺𝗶𝘀𝗲. 𝗜 𝗻𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿 𝘁𝗵𝗼𝘂𝗴𝗵𝘁 𝗜’𝗱 𝘄𝗮𝗻𝘁 𝘁𝗼 𝗵𝗲𝗮𝗿 𝗺𝘆 𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗹 𝗻𝗮𝗺𝗲 𝗮𝗴𝗮𝗶𝗻.”
When I say this book had me on the edge of my seat, I mean completely hooked! I am absolutely in LOVE. It had me swooning, laughing, crying, and screaming—all the emotions. I devoured this book because I just couldn’t get enough, and then that ending 😱! Watching Kaden slowly fall for Layla and break down his walls with every chapter had me smiling. Their chemistry and banter? ✨chef's kiss✨ so, so good! And let me just say, WRAITHLING?! My heart jumped every time he called her his wraithling!
This book has it all—grumpy anti-hero (and masked!) MMC, sassy and tech savvy heroine, stalker, close proximity, you name it! We love a morally grey protective MMC who is 1000% obsessed.
I can’t wait for you all to read Kaden and Layla’s story, it’s a 5 star for me!
Black Heart drops on October 18th, and trust me, you don’t want to miss it!
October 21, 2024
This was my first book by ketley Allison and if you’re looking for your next dark romance read love angst stalking all that fun jazz this book is for you please. I enjoyed reading this and seeing the power dynamic between two broken characters the mmc was more broken but I think that’s what made them a perfect match for eachother.
You have Layla who worlds for a tech company and stumbled across a company secret and downloads it onto her usb not realizing the danger she just put herself in. Kaden is one of the worlds top assassins and is giving her info to take her out but the minute he sees her photo he wants her for himself and will use her as bait to draw out the enemy he’s been hunting for so long.
Kaden is our morally grey daddy who adopted a street cat(swoon) who doesn’t love that and has a tragic past who he is hellbent on seeking revenge that is until Layla lands into his life. This is filled with unhinged psychopath assassin twists and turns and the plot twist at the end had me screaming.
Cant wait for book 2 hopefully 🖤
You have Layla who worlds for a tech company and stumbled across a company secret and downloads it onto her usb not realizing the danger she just put herself in. Kaden is one of the worlds top assassins and is giving her info to take her out but the minute he sees her photo he wants her for himself and will use her as bait to draw out the enemy he’s been hunting for so long.
Kaden is our morally grey daddy who adopted a street cat(swoon) who doesn’t love that and has a tragic past who he is hellbent on seeking revenge that is until Layla lands into his life. This is filled with unhinged psychopath assassin twists and turns and the plot twist at the end had me screaming.
Cant wait for book 2 hopefully 🖤
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