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Himbo Hitman
What do you do when you’re a hitman … who’s terrible at his job?
At first, I thought it would be an easy payday. A few pew pews for bad people, a couple of suitcases of cash for me. People have done worse for an honest living. Probably.
The problem is that after a couple jobs, I’ve never actually managed to unalive someone, and not for lack of trying. Apparently, a basic requirement of a hitman is being a good shot.
Despite my constant duck-ups–that my boss knows nothing about–I’m given another name, and I very nearly follow through. Only after obliterating this guy’s ear, and his fervent pleading to spare him, I’ve sent him into hiding and collected the cash anyway.
But wanted people are hard to hide, and bad guys don’t like paying big money for loose ends.
Now that Van Gogh has shown his face again—sans ear—I’ve scammed my way into his security team, which is sort of ideal since I’m now highly wanted as well.
Unfortunately, we have some “trust issues” to “work through” from our meet-shoot, and with the gorgeous bastard’s brother missing, he refuses to lay low until they’re reunited.
I’m not sold on the plan honestly, but this guy has me questioning my sexuality along with my career path, and I’m at the point where I’m determined to see a job through to the end.
Or die trying.
But hey, at least then I’d finally deliver a body.
At first, I thought it would be an easy payday. A few pew pews for bad people, a couple of suitcases of cash for me. People have done worse for an honest living. Probably.
The problem is that after a couple jobs, I’ve never actually managed to unalive someone, and not for lack of trying. Apparently, a basic requirement of a hitman is being a good shot.
Despite my constant duck-ups–that my boss knows nothing about–I’m given another name, and I very nearly follow through. Only after obliterating this guy’s ear, and his fervent pleading to spare him, I’ve sent him into hiding and collected the cash anyway.
But wanted people are hard to hide, and bad guys don’t like paying big money for loose ends.
Now that Van Gogh has shown his face again—sans ear—I’ve scammed my way into his security team, which is sort of ideal since I’m now highly wanted as well.
Unfortunately, we have some “trust issues” to “work through” from our meet-shoot, and with the gorgeous bastard’s brother missing, he refuses to lay low until they’re reunited.
I’m not sold on the plan honestly, but this guy has me questioning my sexuality along with my career path, and I’m at the point where I’m determined to see a job through to the end.
Or die trying.
But hey, at least then I’d finally deliver a body.
462 pages, Paperback
First published May 29, 2025
879 people are currently reading
2135 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 604 reviews
July 21, 2025
I am all about a silly lil goofy himbo read where you suspend your belief and just go with the flow.
But GOD DAMN! 🤦🏻♀️🤦🏻♀️🤦🏻♀️
I handcuffed my belief, bound it with rope, then chained it to a wall by its ankles and wrists, in the basement of a secret observatory at the bottom of the Mariana’s trench, and it still wasn’t enough to keep my belief suspended, because Perry was actually insufferable and how he survived into his 20’s and paid taxes and crossed the street without dying was actually 110% the most unbelievable part of the whole story.
He wasn’t even a himbo, he was a painfully irritating man child who made questionable choices that fell way outside the realm of “I’m just a silly himbo tehe”
He wants to impress his sister, and live autonomously, how will he achiever this?… get his life together? NO ❌ get a job? NO ❌ Seek help? NO ❌ Get benefit payments? NO ❌
Ask shady people in a shady bar to start murdering people? ✅🤦🏻♀️
I definitely thought there may be a growth of character/development/brain cells included in this story by the end, I was mistaken.
No braincells were used in the making of this character.
Back on the dnr list 🥲
But GOD DAMN! 🤦🏻♀️🤦🏻♀️🤦🏻♀️
I handcuffed my belief, bound it with rope, then chained it to a wall by its ankles and wrists, in the basement of a secret observatory at the bottom of the Mariana’s trench, and it still wasn’t enough to keep my belief suspended, because Perry was actually insufferable and how he survived into his 20’s and paid taxes and crossed the street without dying was actually 110% the most unbelievable part of the whole story.
He wasn’t even a himbo, he was a painfully irritating man child who made questionable choices that fell way outside the realm of “I’m just a silly himbo tehe”
He wants to impress his sister, and live autonomously, how will he achiever this?… get his life together? NO ❌ get a job? NO ❌ Seek help? NO ❌ Get benefit payments? NO ❌
Ask shady people in a shady bar to start murdering people? ✅🤦🏻♀️
I definitely thought there may be a growth of character/development/brain cells included in this story by the end, I was mistaken.
No braincells were used in the making of this character.
Back on the dnr list 🥲
May 4, 2025
Perry is a walking disaster and I absolutely loved him. I laughed so much throughout this journey of catastrophes! The deliberately made 'bad coffee' as a punishment had me giggling because it was equivalent to a golden retriever fetching a ball and dropping it a metre away from their owner because they threw it wrong 😂😂
The way St Clare just didn't know what to make of Perry was so funny, and the way he ends up totally enamoured was so entertaining to read. Perry's attempts at being an assassin just made him even cuter, and it hurt my heart when everyone was trying to use him as a pawn in the mystery solving.
I did enjoy the whole mystery plot - it wasn't as intense or as layered as the usual mysteries I read, but it was highly entertaining and really well paced. The side character's were all interesting and I liked how it wasn't clear exactly whose side they were on at any one time! I also really enjoyed Lars's decision making which was done purely by consulting their horoscopes 😂
This also felt like a genuine standalone within the Sadenverse too because the side character's all seemed to be very settled in their own situations by the end of the book - normally I'm wanting at least one side character to get their own book, but I was pleasantly surprised that I was totally happy with the outcome of the book!
That said, I am excited to see what comes next in this story universe...
*****
I received an ARC of this book from Foreword PR, and this is my honest review
The way St Clare just didn't know what to make of Perry was so funny, and the way he ends up totally enamoured was so entertaining to read. Perry's attempts at being an assassin just made him even cuter, and it hurt my heart when everyone was trying to use him as a pawn in the mystery solving.
I did enjoy the whole mystery plot - it wasn't as intense or as layered as the usual mysteries I read, but it was highly entertaining and really well paced. The side character's were all interesting and I liked how it wasn't clear exactly whose side they were on at any one time! I also really enjoyed Lars's decision making which was done purely by consulting their horoscopes 😂
This also felt like a genuine standalone within the Sadenverse too because the side character's all seemed to be very settled in their own situations by the end of the book - normally I'm wanting at least one side character to get their own book, but I was pleasantly surprised that I was totally happy with the outcome of the book!
That said, I am excited to see what comes next in this story universe...
*****
I received an ARC of this book from Foreword PR, and this is my honest review
dropped
May 29, 2025***no rating***
dropped… somewhere
Damn, I really wanted to like/love this (I was very excited for its release) but I read the beginning, then, when I couldn’t get into it, the epilogue (which was very cute!!), then started up again somewhere in the middle and now I’m giving up. This is just not for me at the moment. Perry is just too damn dumb for me, he has like no sense of self preservation and with the serious shit they are dealing with I can’t take it.
I still have questions but I don’t think I can get through this to get them.
dropped… somewhere
Damn, I really wanted to like/love this (I was very excited for its release) but I read the beginning, then, when I couldn’t get into it, the epilogue (which was very cute!!), then started up again somewhere in the middle and now I’m giving up. This is just not for me at the moment. Perry is just too damn dumb for me, he has like no sense of self preservation and with the serious shit they are dealing with I can’t take it.
I still have questions but I don’t think I can get through this to get them.
May 30, 2025
2.5
this wasn’t terrible and i do like that saxon is trying to write something slightly different, but i usually like my books to make sense.
not too much sense, im not that picky.
but some? yes, i need that.
i could talk about this for hours, but we all know that i won’t bother.
i just need to say one thing: “yeah whatevs i’ll kill people so i can pay rent” doesn’t make any sense. i get that it’s supposed to be funny and not taken too seriously, but come on.
the rest had about as much sense as that one thing, so… yeah
also, i think 3 stars rounded up is INCREDIBLY generous but im feeling merciful today
this wasn’t terrible and i do like that saxon is trying to write something slightly different, but i usually like my books to make sense.
not too much sense, im not that picky.
but some? yes, i need that.
i could talk about this for hours, but we all know that i won’t bother.
i just need to say one thing: “yeah whatevs i’ll kill people so i can pay rent” doesn’t make any sense. i get that it’s supposed to be funny and not taken too seriously, but come on.
the rest had about as much sense as that one thing, so… yeah
also, i think 3 stars rounded up is INCREDIBLY generous but im feeling merciful today
![Profile Image for ❀ Alex ❀ [Hiatus] .](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.gr-assets.com%2Fimages%2FS%2Fcompressed.photo.goodreads.com%2Fusers%2F1724819109i%2F127505214._UX200_CR0%2C35%2C200%2C200_.jpg&w=128&q=75)
June 12, 2025
Rating: 3.75/5
The best way to enjoy this book is to just suspend your disbelief. Just roll with it and don’t take things too seriously.
As for Perry... my feelings about him are all over the place. Sometimes he made me laugh cause he’s so oblivious and simple-minded, but other times he drove me nuts....cause you guessed it... cause he’s so oblivious and simple-minded.
Overall it was fun but I probably won't ever read this again.
The best way to enjoy this book is to just suspend your disbelief. Just roll with it and don’t take things too seriously.
As for Perry... my feelings about him are all over the place. Sometimes he made me laugh cause he’s so oblivious and simple-minded, but other times he drove me nuts....cause you guessed it... cause he’s so oblivious and simple-minded.
Overall it was fun but I probably won't ever read this again.
July 22, 2025
I love a good himbo character, but Perry was not that. He was too stupid to live, how did he survive into adulthood without accidentally walking into traffic?
The fact that St. Clare, a cognitively intact adult, fell for him is concerning. Perry might need a court appointed conservator he has the mental compacity of an overly affectionate Roomba. Its really veering into "should someone call adult protective services?" territory.
I wont even touch on the numerous plot holes or the extreme insta-love (because what every fully functioning independent adult needs is to instantly fall for someone with the cognition of a child on a sugar high).
Fun to discuss with the book club as always though!
The fact that St. Clare, a cognitively intact adult, fell for him is concerning. Perry might need a court appointed conservator he has the mental compacity of an overly affectionate Roomba. Its really veering into "should someone call adult protective services?" territory.
I wont even touch on the numerous plot holes or the extreme insta-love (because what every fully functioning independent adult needs is to instantly fall for someone with the cognition of a child on a sugar high).
Fun to discuss with the book club as always though!
June 7, 2025
Deeply, DEEPLY unserious. Enjoyable nonetheless. Perry's love could quite literally kill you.
He's so sweet, though, that I feel kind of bad calling him dumb. It's a good look on him🙈
But also, very criminal to shoot a guy's ear almost clean off, THEN call him Van Gogh💀
St. Clare is a more understanding man than most. It's way too soon for most of the jokes Perry makes about their meet-shoot.
Including that one.
Pray for Riley St. Clare. Never met an MC who needed divine intercession more than him.
Not 5* because the looking for the brother plot was too much. Couldn't care less if Colin was dead. Or who Carson was. Or anything but these two getting together.
He's so sweet, though, that I feel kind of bad calling him dumb. It's a good look on him🙈
But also, very criminal to shoot a guy's ear almost clean off, THEN call him Van Gogh💀
St. Clare is a more understanding man than most. It's way too soon for most of the jokes Perry makes about their meet-shoot.
Including that one.
Pray for Riley St. Clare. Never met an MC who needed divine intercession more than him.
Not 5* because the looking for the brother plot was too much. Couldn't care less if Colin was dead. Or who Carson was. Or anything but these two getting together.
July 20, 2025
You guys, this book is completely and utterly bad.
Like, I am super aware that this is fiction and that a certain degree of suspension of disbelief is needed, but come on! How are we expected to believe Perry has survived into adulthood and an undisclosed number of years that I assume is somewhere around his mid 20s if he is that dumb?
I’m all for endearing himbos, I love them 100%, but you cannot write a book where one of the MCs is supposed to be a himbo and make him stupid in every aspect of life. Like, Perry is so unbelievably dumb that I don’t understand how he even knows the road rules well enough to get a driver’s license or that is bad for you to eat raw chicken because of salmonella.
He is so dumb that all his interactions with St. Clare made me feel uncomfortable. They clearly weren’t on the same mental level.
In addition to all the layers of Perry being an utterly dumb person, the plot makes absolutely no sense. Why would anyone think killing people to make ends meet is acceptable when you have a millionaire sister in law? This is not a Les Misérables scenario. He literally had options. Somehow, we’re also expected to believe “the baddie bunch,” a group full of criminals, decided to adopt him as one of their own and give him jobs? Like how? Why? Is there no vetting process?
There were just so many things that made no sense in the book. Colin’s aloofness, isn’t he supposed to be super close with his brother? And yet he says nothing? Why is Riley always being referred to as St. Clare? Who even manages the club if they’re never there?
Like, I am super aware that this is fiction and that a certain degree of suspension of disbelief is needed, but come on! How are we expected to believe Perry has survived into adulthood and an undisclosed number of years that I assume is somewhere around his mid 20s if he is that dumb?
I’m all for endearing himbos, I love them 100%, but you cannot write a book where one of the MCs is supposed to be a himbo and make him stupid in every aspect of life. Like, Perry is so unbelievably dumb that I don’t understand how he even knows the road rules well enough to get a driver’s license or that is bad for you to eat raw chicken because of salmonella.
He is so dumb that all his interactions with St. Clare made me feel uncomfortable. They clearly weren’t on the same mental level.
In addition to all the layers of Perry being an utterly dumb person, the plot makes absolutely no sense. Why would anyone think killing people to make ends meet is acceptable when you have a millionaire sister in law? This is not a Les Misérables scenario. He literally had options. Somehow, we’re also expected to believe “the baddie bunch,” a group full of criminals, decided to adopt him as one of their own and give him jobs? Like how? Why? Is there no vetting process?
There were just so many things that made no sense in the book. Colin’s aloofness, isn’t he supposed to be super close with his brother? And yet he says nothing? Why is Riley always being referred to as St. Clare? Who even manages the club if they’re never there?
October 4, 2025
5 ⭐️
spice: 🌶️🌶️.5/5
format: audiobook
narration: 🎤🎤🎤🎤🎤/5
no thoughts, just vibes.
i literally spent the entire time listening to this giggling and kicking my feet. i have no idea if the plot was any good honestly but i had the absolute best time with these characters. perry is the love of my life, end of story.
also shout out to this book for single-handedly getting me through a post-read depression of one of the saddest books of my life.
spice: 🌶️🌶️.5/5
format: audiobook
narration: 🎤🎤🎤🎤🎤/5
no thoughts, just vibes.
i literally spent the entire time listening to this giggling and kicking my feet. i have no idea if the plot was any good honestly but i had the absolute best time with these characters. perry is the love of my life, end of story.
also shout out to this book for single-handedly getting me through a post-read depression of one of the saddest books of my life.
May 19, 2025
This book was so much fun! Perry might be one of the funniest characters ever, he had me laughing throughout the whole book. I loved Perry and St. Clare right from the beginning, but the side characters were also a lot of fun. If you love forced proximity, assassin x target, idiots to lovers, bi awakening and golden retriever MMC then I highly recommend this one.
June 1, 2025
I can't do it. It's so dumb. 😭 I'll always read Saxon James, but this book, these characters... I get Perry *is* a ding-a-ling , but it's all just too much reality to suspend. I'm sorry. I can't . Don't hate me. 🤷🏼♀️
May 30, 2025
Tropes: hitman/mark, forced proximity, golden retriever himbo, found family
Feels: 2/5
Steam*: 2/5
Kinks: n/a
Angst: low
HEA: yes
Pairing: MM
Triggers/potential icks/content warnings: violence, murder
Cheating between MCs: No
Any cheating: No
Other person drama: neither of them really have any interest in anyone else once they meet. Though Reilley thinks Perry is in love with someone at one point.
4 stars
Perry is poor. He's constantly disappointing his sister and having to call in favors from her and her girlfriend to save his ass. He is a golden retriever sweetie, but unfortunately a little too stupid to live when it comes to life skills and Street smarts. He's utterly charming and everyone likes him though, even though he annoys people with his zaniness. Over the last few years he has made friends with a group of criminals he met at a bar. When he's particularly desperate financially, he asks to work for them and gets assigned some marks to take out. He can't bring himself to do it though and he makes the people he was supposed to kill pinky swear that they will disappear and he lets them go. His latest mark is Reilly St. Clare. He shoots him in the ear and lets him go. But Reilly's brother Colin has gone missing and he thinks that Perry is a lead to help find Colin. He manages to track Perry down, but s*** happens and they both end up running for their lives together on the lamb.
As they spend more time together, Reilly, a 30 year old gay man, gets more and more attracted to Perry. And Perry who had previously identified as straight it's starting to feel pretty bendy when it comes to Reilly! There's a lot of danger and suspense and plot. But the characters are all so really warm and funny. It was a good book!
Some notable moments:
"He held up his little finger between us. “Do we have a deal?” I’m still not sure I believe him. “Fine,” I’d snapped. “But I’m not doing … that.” He bounced his gloved pinky between us. “I’m sorry, but I can’t let you go unless you seal the contract.” So I did it. Wrapped my little finger around his and watched the way those curious eyes crinkled at the corners, over the top of his unhinged mask."
"“How do you know you’re straight?” He moves into the kitchen and starts putting everything away. Maybe I should help him, but this is an important discussion, and concentrating on more than one thing at a time isn’t my strong suit. “I have a best friend who’s gay, have never been all that concerned about labels, but when it comes to attraction, all I’ve ever been interested in is women.” “Right. That’s … conclusive. But tell me: what if it’s only ever women, and then, occasionally, you’ll see a guy who gives big Dom vibes, and that sort of does it for you?” He stares at me. “Wait. Wait, wait. Tell me … tell me you’re not talking about—” “Shhh!” I throw a look back down the hall. “Maybe not professional will-spank-you Dom … just … would respectfully tell me what to do and be super confident and good in bed type of …” The words I’m saying suddenly catch up to me. “You know what? Forget I said anything.” “Wish I could.” “This never happened.” “Wish it didn’t.” “Pass me that bottle of Coke, please? I’d like to start attempting to drown myself.”"
"“Well, you have the choice. I can come in your mouth or your ass. I can’t do both.” “Not with that attitude,” I mutter but give in."
*FYI about steam: I rate steam based on a combination of quality & quantity. I note kink separate from steam because I don't want to underrate steamy reads that don't have much kink.
**Note about spoilers: I like to comment on the plot of a book in reviews, so I almost always mark my reviews as containing spoilers. But I try to avoid spoiling the big dramatic moments! As a reader, I personally like to know what I'm getting into before I read a book so I know more about the content and if it's to my taste/mood, so I try to give that information in my reviews for myself when I'm considering rereading and also for other readers.
Feels: 2/5
Steam*: 2/5
Kinks: n/a
Angst: low
HEA: yes
Pairing: MM
Triggers/potential icks/content warnings: violence, murder
Cheating between MCs: No
Any cheating: No
Other person drama: neither of them really have any interest in anyone else once they meet. Though Reilley thinks Perry is in love with someone at one point.
4 stars
Perry is poor. He's constantly disappointing his sister and having to call in favors from her and her girlfriend to save his ass. He is a golden retriever sweetie, but unfortunately a little too stupid to live when it comes to life skills and Street smarts. He's utterly charming and everyone likes him though, even though he annoys people with his zaniness. Over the last few years he has made friends with a group of criminals he met at a bar. When he's particularly desperate financially, he asks to work for them and gets assigned some marks to take out. He can't bring himself to do it though and he makes the people he was supposed to kill pinky swear that they will disappear and he lets them go. His latest mark is Reilly St. Clare. He shoots him in the ear and lets him go. But Reilly's brother Colin has gone missing and he thinks that Perry is a lead to help find Colin. He manages to track Perry down, but s*** happens and they both end up running for their lives together on the lamb.
As they spend more time together, Reilly, a 30 year old gay man, gets more and more attracted to Perry. And Perry who had previously identified as straight it's starting to feel pretty bendy when it comes to Reilly! There's a lot of danger and suspense and plot. But the characters are all so really warm and funny. It was a good book!
Some notable moments:
"He held up his little finger between us. “Do we have a deal?” I’m still not sure I believe him. “Fine,” I’d snapped. “But I’m not doing … that.” He bounced his gloved pinky between us. “I’m sorry, but I can’t let you go unless you seal the contract.” So I did it. Wrapped my little finger around his and watched the way those curious eyes crinkled at the corners, over the top of his unhinged mask."
"“How do you know you’re straight?” He moves into the kitchen and starts putting everything away. Maybe I should help him, but this is an important discussion, and concentrating on more than one thing at a time isn’t my strong suit. “I have a best friend who’s gay, have never been all that concerned about labels, but when it comes to attraction, all I’ve ever been interested in is women.” “Right. That’s … conclusive. But tell me: what if it’s only ever women, and then, occasionally, you’ll see a guy who gives big Dom vibes, and that sort of does it for you?” He stares at me. “Wait. Wait, wait. Tell me … tell me you’re not talking about—” “Shhh!” I throw a look back down the hall. “Maybe not professional will-spank-you Dom … just … would respectfully tell me what to do and be super confident and good in bed type of …” The words I’m saying suddenly catch up to me. “You know what? Forget I said anything.” “Wish I could.” “This never happened.” “Wish it didn’t.” “Pass me that bottle of Coke, please? I’d like to start attempting to drown myself.”"
"“Well, you have the choice. I can come in your mouth or your ass. I can’t do both.” “Not with that attitude,” I mutter but give in."
*FYI about steam: I rate steam based on a combination of quality & quantity. I note kink separate from steam because I don't want to underrate steamy reads that don't have much kink.
**Note about spoilers: I like to comment on the plot of a book in reviews, so I almost always mark my reviews as containing spoilers. But I try to avoid spoiling the big dramatic moments! As a reader, I personally like to know what I'm getting into before I read a book so I know more about the content and if it's to my taste/mood, so I try to give that information in my reviews for myself when I'm considering rereading and also for other readers.
May 7, 2025
This book was absolutely bonkers - in all the right ways - and had me smiling pretty much from beginning to end!
Perry is the most clueless puppy in human form I've come across in a long time and his friendship with the bunch of people he calls the baddies is what sets off this crazy adventure.
You won't be getting any plot details or anything even vaguely spoiler-ish in my review because honestly, this book really needs to be read blind without any clue what might be on the cards. That way you'll get the genuine experience of seeing Perry in all his himbo glory!
St Clare, or Reilly to give him his first name, isn't overshadowed by Perry's exuberance though, he totally holds his own with a strong character that sees him fluctuate between exasperation and fondness the more Perry's antics draw him in.
There's a cracking set of secondary characters at play too and I loved all of them, especially the baddie squad, who made me laugh on multiple occasions.
This series is loosely related to the rest of Saxon's universe, Perry is Margo's younger brother, she's Elle's girlfriend, and Elle is the sister of Émile from The Husband Hoax but it works perfectly as a standalone.
The suspense element of this book works brilliantly alongside the humour and the ridiculous nature of the situations Perry lands himself, and the wider group of people he's gathered around him, which may be a surprise to some who were expecting it to only be a bit part in the narrative.
I loved following the twists and turns as Perry does his best to get to the bottom of who's actually behind the contract on the St Clare nightclub owners, and the reveal, while not being a total shock, still comes with a bunch of feels on Perry's behalf.
I'm not sure if there's more planned for this particular Sadenverse branch but I'd definitely be up for more Perry antics!
#ARC kindly received from the author via Foreword PR, I am voluntarily leaving a review
Perry is the most clueless puppy in human form I've come across in a long time and his friendship with the bunch of people he calls the baddies is what sets off this crazy adventure.
You won't be getting any plot details or anything even vaguely spoiler-ish in my review because honestly, this book really needs to be read blind without any clue what might be on the cards. That way you'll get the genuine experience of seeing Perry in all his himbo glory!
St Clare, or Reilly to give him his first name, isn't overshadowed by Perry's exuberance though, he totally holds his own with a strong character that sees him fluctuate between exasperation and fondness the more Perry's antics draw him in.
There's a cracking set of secondary characters at play too and I loved all of them, especially the baddie squad, who made me laugh on multiple occasions.
This series is loosely related to the rest of Saxon's universe, Perry is Margo's younger brother, she's Elle's girlfriend, and Elle is the sister of Émile from The Husband Hoax but it works perfectly as a standalone.
The suspense element of this book works brilliantly alongside the humour and the ridiculous nature of the situations Perry lands himself, and the wider group of people he's gathered around him, which may be a surprise to some who were expecting it to only be a bit part in the narrative.
I loved following the twists and turns as Perry does his best to get to the bottom of who's actually behind the contract on the St Clare nightclub owners, and the reveal, while not being a total shock, still comes with a bunch of feels on Perry's behalf.
I'm not sure if there's more planned for this particular Sadenverse branch but I'd definitely be up for more Perry antics!
#ARC kindly received from the author via Foreword PR, I am voluntarily leaving a review
May 29, 2025
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
ARC REVIEW
A hilarious hitman who’s never actually killed anyone fakes his way through botched jobs and rising chaos. After nearly taking out a target (and only managing to shoot off his ear), he ends up on the guy’s security team while dodging danger, rethinking his life choices, and catching unexpected feelings. A snarky, wild ride full of failed kills, reluctant heroism, and messy chemistry.
I was so excited to dive into this book after reading the blurb, and once again, Saxon James delivers an absolute banger! I was completely hooked from the first page, and by the time I finished, I was sold.
Perry, OMG, I adore Perry. Honestly, I can’t think of any other character I’ve connected with like I have with him. His antics make me laugh so hard! He’s basically the personification of a golden retriever, and I just want to scoop him up and keep him safe from the world. His hilarious clumsiness as a hitman, paired with his huge heart, made this such a delightful read. I’m at a loss for words just... Perry.
And then there’s St. Claire. Listen, this man is dangerous for my heart. He’s hot as hell, and the tension between him and Perry was intense. I did not expect this dynamic, but oh boy, am I here for it. These two together? Not something I ever saw coming, but their chemistry is electric, and they balance each other out so well.
I also didn’t see that twist coming at all seriously, my jaw was on the floor. Saxon James is a master of keeping you on the edge of your seat, and I’m here for it.
I need more books from Saxon James. This is definitely not the last one I’ll be reading!
5 stars without hesitation, and I’d gladly read it again in a heartbeat. 😂
ARC REVIEW
A hilarious hitman who’s never actually killed anyone fakes his way through botched jobs and rising chaos. After nearly taking out a target (and only managing to shoot off his ear), he ends up on the guy’s security team while dodging danger, rethinking his life choices, and catching unexpected feelings. A snarky, wild ride full of failed kills, reluctant heroism, and messy chemistry.
I was so excited to dive into this book after reading the blurb, and once again, Saxon James delivers an absolute banger! I was completely hooked from the first page, and by the time I finished, I was sold.
Perry, OMG, I adore Perry. Honestly, I can’t think of any other character I’ve connected with like I have with him. His antics make me laugh so hard! He’s basically the personification of a golden retriever, and I just want to scoop him up and keep him safe from the world. His hilarious clumsiness as a hitman, paired with his huge heart, made this such a delightful read. I’m at a loss for words just... Perry.
And then there’s St. Claire. Listen, this man is dangerous for my heart. He’s hot as hell, and the tension between him and Perry was intense. I did not expect this dynamic, but oh boy, am I here for it. These two together? Not something I ever saw coming, but their chemistry is electric, and they balance each other out so well.
I also didn’t see that twist coming at all seriously, my jaw was on the floor. Saxon James is a master of keeping you on the edge of your seat, and I’m here for it.
I need more books from Saxon James. This is definitely not the last one I’ll be reading!
5 stars without hesitation, and I’d gladly read it again in a heartbeat. 😂
June 2, 2025
oh perry... you sweet summer child... this was definitely goofy. Just a little *too* goofy for my preference
dnf-nope
June 11, 2025Dnf @ 33% ~ This is not the book’s fault. I made the mistake of starting an almost 500k word fic that consumed my life shortly after starting Himbo Hitman. The fic (which is incomplete) has left me in quite a large reading slump, so I’ve decided to place my TBR on hold while I read more fics to hopefully get myself out of the slump. No safety info since I didn’t get that far into it. (Sorry everyone😭😭)
August 25, 2025
really enjoyed it the way St Clair's an Perry's relationship starts is just too funny and during the whole story I really had a great time! such a great easy lighthearted read!
December 13, 2025
Absolutely ridiculous, but I enjoyed it so much!
June 16, 2025
I was so looking forward to this book. I love Saxon James!
Unfortunately, this one fell flat for me.
Perry is unlike any character I've ever read before. He's hired as a hitman, but let's just say he's not very good at it. He's very nonchalant about it and the world around him.
Then we have St. Clare, who's a very put together business owner. He and his brother own a night club called none other than St. Clare's. His brother goes missing.
I won't give away how Perry and St. Clare meet. I feel that's something you need to experience on your own. But they end up on this hunt for St. Clare's brother.
*St. Clare is actually his last name. I don't remember his first name*
From the start, I could never get into this story. Perry was such an unrealastic character, that I was just like, WTH. I couldn't connect with him, the story, nor the relationship between him and St. Clare. I lost interest very early in the book, but chose to keep going in hopes I would connect somewhere along the way. That didn't happen.
I did listen to the audio and I think that's the only way I could get through it.
Unfortunately, this one fell flat for me.
Perry is unlike any character I've ever read before. He's hired as a hitman, but let's just say he's not very good at it. He's very nonchalant about it and the world around him.
Then we have St. Clare, who's a very put together business owner. He and his brother own a night club called none other than St. Clare's. His brother goes missing.
I won't give away how Perry and St. Clare meet. I feel that's something you need to experience on your own. But they end up on this hunt for St. Clare's brother.
*St. Clare is actually his last name. I don't remember his first name*
From the start, I could never get into this story. Perry was such an unrealastic character, that I was just like, WTH. I couldn't connect with him, the story, nor the relationship between him and St. Clare. I lost interest very early in the book, but chose to keep going in hopes I would connect somewhere along the way. That didn't happen.
I did listen to the audio and I think that's the only way I could get through it.
June 16, 2025
4⭐️
Perry is the himboest himbo to ever himbo, and I absolutely ate it up. This is not a book you read with a furrowed brow—it’s a goofy, horny, heartwarming ride that knows exactly what it is and delivers with shameless delight. Perry is a golden retriever with a loaded gun and no business holding it, and I adored every second of his snack-loving, violence-averse chaos.
His chemistry with St Clare? Unhinged in the best way. Chaotic, sweet, occasionally unhinged (did I say that already?), and unexpectedly tender. The way they ping-ponged off each other made the whole thing feel alive. The central plot—yes, there is one—leans into the missing brother mystery, and while that part wrapped up a little too cleanly for my taste, the real meat of this story was always Perry and St Clare colliding into each other with no brakes and a whole lot of feelings.
The spice was also nice. It was hot, it was hilarious, and it never felt like a throw-in. Every scene added something—whether it was neediness, confusion, vulnerability, or just pure himbo hunger. The first time? Tender and disarming and never out of character!
The best part? Even amid the campy setup and murder-adjacent misadventures, it never loses its heart. It's horny, yes, but it’s also surprisingly kind. If you’re in the mood for a romance that doesn’t take itself too seriously—but still knows how to hit you right in the feelings—Himbo Hitman absolutely hits the mark.
Perry is the himboest himbo to ever himbo, and I absolutely ate it up. This is not a book you read with a furrowed brow—it’s a goofy, horny, heartwarming ride that knows exactly what it is and delivers with shameless delight. Perry is a golden retriever with a loaded gun and no business holding it, and I adored every second of his snack-loving, violence-averse chaos.
His chemistry with St Clare? Unhinged in the best way. Chaotic, sweet, occasionally unhinged (did I say that already?), and unexpectedly tender. The way they ping-ponged off each other made the whole thing feel alive. The central plot—yes, there is one—leans into the missing brother mystery, and while that part wrapped up a little too cleanly for my taste, the real meat of this story was always Perry and St Clare colliding into each other with no brakes and a whole lot of feelings.
The spice was also nice. It was hot, it was hilarious, and it never felt like a throw-in. Every scene added something—whether it was neediness, confusion, vulnerability, or just pure himbo hunger. The first time? Tender and disarming and never out of character!
The best part? Even amid the campy setup and murder-adjacent misadventures, it never loses its heart. It's horny, yes, but it’s also surprisingly kind. If you’re in the mood for a romance that doesn’t take itself too seriously—but still knows how to hit you right in the feelings—Himbo Hitman absolutely hits the mark.
Want to read
January 5, 2025a new Saxon james??? Yes, Please!!!!!
September 19, 2025
Character- 4.5/5
Plot- 4.5/5
Pacing- 4/5
Entertainment- 5/5
Rating- 4.5/5
This is genuinely one of the funniest books I've read in a really long time. Perry is just complete dynamite, and I'm always looking forward to the next thing coming out of his mouth. The very premise of this book itself, is super fun and outrageous. Who knew that a book about a hitman who is too nice (or dumb) to actually kill anyone could be so entertaining?
Lets discuss the plot first, with Perry (our resident hitman), almost killing his target St. Claire, only to immediately regret it and apologize. This immediately gives these two a rather unique dynamic, where one character is furious about nearly being killed, whilst the other is totally oblivious as to why he's so mad about. It's just perfect fuel for wacky interactions and interesting story threads. This then leads into a survivalist story, by the least competent of characters, and hilarious hijinks ensure. Its such a fun plot, and something a little unique that takes the 'Himbo' character type, and puts him in a ridiculous situation, and it very much works in terms of entertainment.
But the shining light of this book has to be Perry, the endearing, kind of oblivious himbo who can't help but get himself into terrible circumstances. He's hilarious in all the best ways, and he really carries the book with his complete lack of decent decision making. It does mean that St. Claire is somewhat overshadowed, but it truly does feel more like Perry's journey anyway.
Yeah I loved this book, it was an amazing read and Saxon James has really outdone herself with this one. If a funny, endearing and spicy book is what you're looking for, well look no further, check this one out.
Plot- 4.5/5
Pacing- 4/5
Entertainment- 5/5
Rating- 4.5/5
This is genuinely one of the funniest books I've read in a really long time. Perry is just complete dynamite, and I'm always looking forward to the next thing coming out of his mouth. The very premise of this book itself, is super fun and outrageous. Who knew that a book about a hitman who is too nice (or dumb) to actually kill anyone could be so entertaining?
Lets discuss the plot first, with Perry (our resident hitman), almost killing his target St. Claire, only to immediately regret it and apologize. This immediately gives these two a rather unique dynamic, where one character is furious about nearly being killed, whilst the other is totally oblivious as to why he's so mad about. It's just perfect fuel for wacky interactions and interesting story threads. This then leads into a survivalist story, by the least competent of characters, and hilarious hijinks ensure. Its such a fun plot, and something a little unique that takes the 'Himbo' character type, and puts him in a ridiculous situation, and it very much works in terms of entertainment.
But the shining light of this book has to be Perry, the endearing, kind of oblivious himbo who can't help but get himself into terrible circumstances. He's hilarious in all the best ways, and he really carries the book with his complete lack of decent decision making. It does mean that St. Claire is somewhat overshadowed, but it truly does feel more like Perry's journey anyway.
Yeah I loved this book, it was an amazing read and Saxon James has really outdone herself with this one. If a funny, endearing and spicy book is what you're looking for, well look no further, check this one out.
May 13, 2025
How to earn Perry’s trust:
1. The sacred pinky swear
2. Own a labradoodle
3. Be Judge Judy
This was full of action and suspense and FUN and I loved it! I feel like Perry is less dumb, and more of a slightly aloof/very oblivious babygirl with poor impulse control. People see him as the fun guy, but he’s hyper aware of his shortcomings and just wants to feel like he belongs somewhere where he’s contributing to the team.
I expected St. Clare to be an uptight businessman, but was delighted to discover that he too is a bit of a chaotic mess (though to a MUCH lesser degree). It was sweet how they commiserated over being the inadequate sibling and became the perfect team… in the most Scooby Doo way possible. While Perry stole the show for me, I still loved St. Clare and how he was a calming force who met Perry where he was at and was enamored with him from the first time he served him coffee. It takes some serious BDE to flirt that hard when you’re missing half an ear 😂
I loved having a whole new cast of side characters to fall in love with, and this band of misfits were super entertaining! Even a hardened group of criminals couldn’t help but fall for Perry. This book made me laugh out loud without being over the top silly, and the mystery subplot kept me guessing until the end.
1. The sacred pinky swear
2. Own a labradoodle
3. Be Judge Judy
This was full of action and suspense and FUN and I loved it! I feel like Perry is less dumb, and more of a slightly aloof/very oblivious babygirl with poor impulse control. People see him as the fun guy, but he’s hyper aware of his shortcomings and just wants to feel like he belongs somewhere where he’s contributing to the team.
I expected St. Clare to be an uptight businessman, but was delighted to discover that he too is a bit of a chaotic mess (though to a MUCH lesser degree). It was sweet how they commiserated over being the inadequate sibling and became the perfect team… in the most Scooby Doo way possible. While Perry stole the show for me, I still loved St. Clare and how he was a calming force who met Perry where he was at and was enamored with him from the first time he served him coffee. It takes some serious BDE to flirt that hard when you’re missing half an ear 😂
I loved having a whole new cast of side characters to fall in love with, and this band of misfits were super entertaining! Even a hardened group of criminals couldn’t help but fall for Perry. This book made me laugh out loud without being over the top silly, and the mystery subplot kept me guessing until the end.
May 30, 2025
Perry • Reilly (St. Clare)
….
“Have you ever heard of a pinky swear?”
….
I mean. To sit down and have a coffee with Saxon. Just one. One conversation. I think it would be one fun afternoon. Like I had with this book.
Of course from the title itself - we can guess that Perry is that Himbo. But is that all to him? He’s oblivious to the world around him, a bit of chaotic but with a few life approaches we all should take notes on and a heart of gold.
It’s an instant type of attraction but turns into so much more, which I couldn’t stop rooting for.
If you’re a fan of forced proximity, giggles in between reading, golden retrievers, good vibes and pinky promises this one might be just for you.
Lucky charms.
….
“I was aiming for your head. I’m not a very good shot.” // “My pretty mouth can do a lot of very pretty things.” // “What’s one thing you’ve always wished you could do?” // “Well, someone needs to fill the silence.” // “What about our fourth?” // “I want us to be more.” // “I thought that maybe it was time to … to add some more happy charms to your life.” ….
….
*I reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts are my own.
….
….
“Have you ever heard of a pinky swear?”
….
I mean. To sit down and have a coffee with Saxon. Just one. One conversation. I think it would be one fun afternoon. Like I had with this book.
Of course from the title itself - we can guess that Perry is that Himbo. But is that all to him? He’s oblivious to the world around him, a bit of chaotic but with a few life approaches we all should take notes on and a heart of gold.
It’s an instant type of attraction but turns into so much more, which I couldn’t stop rooting for.
If you’re a fan of forced proximity, giggles in between reading, golden retrievers, good vibes and pinky promises this one might be just for you.
Lucky charms.
….
“I was aiming for your head. I’m not a very good shot.” // “My pretty mouth can do a lot of very pretty things.” // “What’s one thing you’ve always wished you could do?” // “Well, someone needs to fill the silence.” // “What about our fourth?” // “I want us to be more.” // “I thought that maybe it was time to … to add some more happy charms to your life.” ….
….
*I reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts are my own.
….
May 31, 2025
"𝑰𝒕 𝒘𝒂𝒔 𝒍𝒐𝒗𝒆 𝒂𝒕 𝒇𝒊𝒓𝒔𝒕 𝒔𝒉𝒐𝒕."
This book was hysterical and aptly named. Perry is absolutely precious, and he must be protected at all costs. Even from himself. He's also the sweetest freaking himbo ever. Perry is the type of guy who is always trying to look on the bright side or find the silver lining in things. That's a rare quality in a world full of pessimism. I'm just glad that St. Clare realized what a true gem he had in Perry before it was too late.
The whole premise of this storyline is bonkers, but I found myself glued to the pages. What happened to St. Clare's brother? Was he kidnapped or has he gone into hiding? Why was Perry hired to kill St. Clare in the first place. These were all the questions flying around in my mind as I got deeper and deeper into the plot.
There were a lot of memorable side characters who really added some fun elements to the story. The baddies who I was on the fence about yet proved themselves to me by the end. St. Clare's bestie and his hilarious quips about how crazy it was for his best friend to be hooking up with the man who tried to kill him. All of it just made this such a fun and interesting read that I really enjoyed.
This book was hysterical and aptly named. Perry is absolutely precious, and he must be protected at all costs. Even from himself. He's also the sweetest freaking himbo ever. Perry is the type of guy who is always trying to look on the bright side or find the silver lining in things. That's a rare quality in a world full of pessimism. I'm just glad that St. Clare realized what a true gem he had in Perry before it was too late.
The whole premise of this storyline is bonkers, but I found myself glued to the pages. What happened to St. Clare's brother? Was he kidnapped or has he gone into hiding? Why was Perry hired to kill St. Clare in the first place. These were all the questions flying around in my mind as I got deeper and deeper into the plot.
There were a lot of memorable side characters who really added some fun elements to the story. The baddies who I was on the fence about yet proved themselves to me by the end. St. Clare's bestie and his hilarious quips about how crazy it was for his best friend to be hooking up with the man who tried to kill him. All of it just made this such a fun and interesting read that I really enjoyed.
June 4, 2025
Saxon said you want a himbo?? Well here he is! Perry was hilarious and had me laughing so much. I love a himbo who is naive and gullible but makes you love him with one look into his puppy dog eyes. Better yet? He’s a hitman! Himbos don’t make great hitmen and that’s the best part of this book. Perrys soul is too good to kill anyone and we all know it. Just yelling “don’t do it Perry!”
What do I say about Perry and St. Clare? This was instalove… well after the meet-shoot of course. St. Clare can’t help but fall for Perry.
This book had so much more than romance. I was constantly wondering what happened to Colin and the found family vibes were perfect. I’m so glad they ended up loving Perry and not being A-holes.
Please read this book. It’s beautiful and so funny!
What do I say about Perry and St. Clare? This was instalove… well after the meet-shoot of course. St. Clare can’t help but fall for Perry.
This book had so much more than romance. I was constantly wondering what happened to Colin and the found family vibes were perfect. I’m so glad they ended up loving Perry and not being A-holes.
Please read this book. It’s beautiful and so funny!
June 3, 2025
I'm a hard one to make laugh but it was a funny one. Perry is very much a dumb but wholesome person who you cannot help but love but also can never figure out how they can jump to the conclusions he does
did-not-finish
August 26, 2025DNF at one percent.
I can already tell this is not going to work. Plus, reading review reviews!
I can already tell this is not going to work. Plus, reading review reviews!
July 25, 2025
failed hitman x wrong target
this was a hilarious very fun read!
it did take me some time to get into the story and like the main protagonists but the narrator always helps!
this was a hilarious very fun read!
it did take me some time to get into the story and like the main protagonists but the narrator always helps!
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