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Saints of Purgatory #1
A Deal With the Reaper: A Dark MC and Serial Killer Romance
Therapist June Graves moonlights as a killer who hunts abusive men. When a client’s niece goes missing, all signs point to her dangerous ex-boyfriend, Theo Zervas. It doesn’t take long for June to decide he will be her next victim.
Theo Zervas, president of a local outlaw motorcycle club, the Saints of Purgatory, is intimately familiar with danger and death. He’s been looking over his shoulder his entire life, so it’s not hard to notice his sexy shadow.
When June attacks, Theo is ready for her. He gives her two sending the evidence he’s gathered against her to the cops, or she lives with him as a Saint of Purgatory for one month. After, if she still wants to kill him, he won’t stop her.
With no other choice, June agrees to the forced living arrangements. But neither one of them is ready for what the next month will bring. Theo’s side job puts June in jeopardy, and June’s murderous tendencies threaten to bring everything down around them. Now they have to make a is staying in each other’s lives worth it, or will this deal kill them both?
Theo Zervas, president of a local outlaw motorcycle club, the Saints of Purgatory, is intimately familiar with danger and death. He’s been looking over his shoulder his entire life, so it’s not hard to notice his sexy shadow.
When June attacks, Theo is ready for her. He gives her two sending the evidence he’s gathered against her to the cops, or she lives with him as a Saint of Purgatory for one month. After, if she still wants to kill him, he won’t stop her.
With no other choice, June agrees to the forced living arrangements. But neither one of them is ready for what the next month will bring. Theo’s side job puts June in jeopardy, and June’s murderous tendencies threaten to bring everything down around them. Now they have to make a is staying in each other’s lives worth it, or will this deal kill them both?
364 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 1, 2025
172 people are currently reading
2595 people want to read
About the author
Madison Lawson
20 books266 followersMadison is a bestselling author of sci-fi and thriller novels filled with edge-of-your-seat suspense, multi-dimensional, relatable characters, and complex relationships and family dynamics. Madison is an English graduate from Texas A&M University and is currently studying for her master's degree in North Carolina where she lives with two roommates and her perfect dog, Teddy Lupin.
To stay updated, follow Madison on social media and check out her website at madisonlawson.com. Bring up Harry Potter, her dog, Halsey, or her books to get her talking nonstop. You probably won’t regret it.
To stay updated, follow Madison on social media and check out her website at madisonlawson.com. Bring up Harry Potter, her dog, Halsey, or her books to get her talking nonstop. You probably won’t regret it.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 217 reviews
November 2, 2025
Idk why I keep abusing my eyeballs
![Profile Image for ashlyn [semi ia].](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.gr-assets.com%2Fimages%2FS%2Fcompressed.photo.goodreads.com%2Fusers%2F1767313191i%2F170521640._UY200_CR0%2C0%2C200%2C200_.jpg&w=128&q=75)
February 2, 2026
those poor trees did not deserve to be turned into this book.
December 16, 2025
4.75 ⭐️My favorite kind of books are the ones where I go in thinking, “Oh, I’m gonna like this,” and then end up completely fucking loving it.
I had the privilege of listening to an ALC of this one, narrated by Jacob Morgan and Marie Hawkins, and let me just say , these two were the dynamic duo. Perfect banter. Perfect chemistry. I fucking ate this shit up.
Now, anytime someone hands me a story with a serial killer FMC, I already know I’m gonna love it and this one did not disappoint. The meet-cute when June tries to kill Theo was everything to me. The second these two started tussling, I knew I was going to love every single chaotic interaction from there on out. And then fake dating? Oh, this book said let’s make her ferallllllll
The premise was basically built for me. I’m talking forced proximity, a protective, obsessive, fall-first, down-bad MMC, and bonus points because he’s in a motorcycle gang. Double bonus points because he’s the leader. But daddy, I love him.
June, though? Effortlessly cool. I loved everything about her her attitude, her confidence, her stabby-ness, and the way she’s just a little bit of a menace. I was cackling every time she tried to sneak around and Theo was already one step ahead. These two were the definition of pushing each other’s buttons while throwing around the cutest nicknames.
And the spice? LAWD. Maybe it’s because it was an audiobook and those scenes were right in my ear holes, but the sexual chemistry was outstanding. I was literally kicking my little feet. And while it was PACKED with spice, (and a pierced MMC ) it also had a surprisingly emotional core that completely blindsided me. I cried my little eyes out. 🥹
I think a huge reason I’m always obsessed with the motorcycle club vibe is because I’m so down bad for the found family aspect of it. I absolutely eat that up every single time watching all the characters interact, having each other’s backs, and the way June just fit right in with their little crew SO GOOD.
This audiobook was a 10/10 the narration made an already amazing story even better.
I fucking loved it.
“Little reaper” 🤭
I had the privilege of listening to an ALC of this one, narrated by Jacob Morgan and Marie Hawkins, and let me just say , these two were the dynamic duo. Perfect banter. Perfect chemistry. I fucking ate this shit up.
Now, anytime someone hands me a story with a serial killer FMC, I already know I’m gonna love it and this one did not disappoint. The meet-cute when June tries to kill Theo was everything to me. The second these two started tussling, I knew I was going to love every single chaotic interaction from there on out. And then fake dating? Oh, this book said let’s make her ferallllllll
The premise was basically built for me. I’m talking forced proximity, a protective, obsessive, fall-first, down-bad MMC, and bonus points because he’s in a motorcycle gang. Double bonus points because he’s the leader. But daddy, I love him.
June, though? Effortlessly cool. I loved everything about her her attitude, her confidence, her stabby-ness, and the way she’s just a little bit of a menace. I was cackling every time she tried to sneak around and Theo was already one step ahead. These two were the definition of pushing each other’s buttons while throwing around the cutest nicknames.
And the spice? LAWD. Maybe it’s because it was an audiobook and those scenes were right in my ear holes, but the sexual chemistry was outstanding. I was literally kicking my little feet. And while it was PACKED with spice, (and a pierced MMC ) it also had a surprisingly emotional core that completely blindsided me. I cried my little eyes out. 🥹
I think a huge reason I’m always obsessed with the motorcycle club vibe is because I’m so down bad for the found family aspect of it. I absolutely eat that up every single time watching all the characters interact, having each other’s backs, and the way June just fit right in with their little crew SO GOOD.
This audiobook was a 10/10 the narration made an already amazing story even better.
I fucking loved it.
“Little reaper” 🤭
October 31, 2025
“A Deal With The Reaper” is what happens when your therapist stops giving advice and starts handing out death sentences.💀🖤
June’s a therapist by day, vigilante killer by night, and Theo’s a dangerous biker who decides blackmail is the new love language. What follows? One month of forced proximity, murdery tension, and enough chemistry to burn down Purgatory itself. 🔥
Dark, bloody, and way too entertaining for how morally bankrupt it is—this one had me grinning through the chaos. 😈🏍️
Definitely one of those stories where you think, “They really shouldn’t work… but damn, they do.” 📖 💋
4.75 ⭐️’s
June’s a therapist by day, vigilante killer by night, and Theo’s a dangerous biker who decides blackmail is the new love language. What follows? One month of forced proximity, murdery tension, and enough chemistry to burn down Purgatory itself. 🔥
Dark, bloody, and way too entertaining for how morally bankrupt it is—this one had me grinning through the chaos. 😈🏍️
Definitely one of those stories where you think, “They really shouldn’t work… but damn, they do.” 📖 💋
4.75 ⭐️’s
October 11, 2025
This has easily become one of my new favorite books and audiobooks of the year!
The story follows June Graves, a therapist and also a serial killer who enacts her vengeance to those who have wronged or hurt her, her friends, and her patients by killing them. When the need to kill arises she ends up targeting the president of a notorious local motorcycle club. When she attempts to drug and capture the leader, the tables get turned and the leader, Theo Zervas, ends up stopping her from hurting him and a deal is struck between the two.
I listened to this via audiobook which was done in duet style narration by Marie Hawkins & Jacob Morgan. Jacob & Marie absolutely killed it (pun intended) as June & Theo! Not only do their voices and performances pair and complement each other so well, but they both captured all the different emotions and tension throughout the story. Jacob had me in tears during the emotional parts hearing the anguish in his voice, and Marie had me dying laughing with all of the humor and witty banter that June and Theo had with one another.
This book has everything you could want and more:
- Enemies to Lovers
- Motorcycle Club
- Great Banter
- Spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️
- Touch her and die
- Serial Killer FMC
- Cute nicknames for MMC & FMC
- Found Family
Thank you Madison for the ALC!
The story follows June Graves, a therapist and also a serial killer who enacts her vengeance to those who have wronged or hurt her, her friends, and her patients by killing them. When the need to kill arises she ends up targeting the president of a notorious local motorcycle club. When she attempts to drug and capture the leader, the tables get turned and the leader, Theo Zervas, ends up stopping her from hurting him and a deal is struck between the two.
I listened to this via audiobook which was done in duet style narration by Marie Hawkins & Jacob Morgan. Jacob & Marie absolutely killed it (pun intended) as June & Theo! Not only do their voices and performances pair and complement each other so well, but they both captured all the different emotions and tension throughout the story. Jacob had me in tears during the emotional parts hearing the anguish in his voice, and Marie had me dying laughing with all of the humor and witty banter that June and Theo had with one another.
This book has everything you could want and more:
- Enemies to Lovers
- Motorcycle Club
- Great Banter
- Spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️
- Touch her and die
- Serial Killer FMC
- Cute nicknames for MMC & FMC
- Found Family
Thank you Madison for the ALC!
November 10, 2025
I love a badass serial killer FMC and June was definitely that. I loved Theo and his crew especially Luna! Luna and Sadie are great side characters that just added to the story. The book had great banter between all of the characters, and it had good suspense. I really enjoyed this one and can't wait until the next book in the series comes out!
January 16, 2026
I loved this book 🖤 I partly listened to the audio, partly read it.
She’s a serial killer, he’s the president of a biker gang - pure chaos in the best way 🫠
The banter was perfection, the chemistry was off the charts, and the storyline had me glued from start to finish.
No complaints here, just one… when’s the second book comes out?! I want to know how the story continues with other characters!
Bonus points because the audiobook is SO good 🎧🔥 You need to listen to it!
“Removing one bad influence won't save someone determined to ruin their life.”
“He presses our foreheads together, breathing me in like I'm the first flower after years of a brutal winter.”
She’s a serial killer, he’s the president of a biker gang - pure chaos in the best way 🫠
The banter was perfection, the chemistry was off the charts, and the storyline had me glued from start to finish.
No complaints here, just one… when’s the second book comes out?! I want to know how the story continues with other characters!
Bonus points because the audiobook is SO good 🎧🔥 You need to listen to it!
“Removing one bad influence won't save someone determined to ruin their life.”
“He presses our foreheads together, breathing me in like I'm the first flower after years of a brutal winter.”
October 14, 2025
A Deal with a Reaper by Madison Lawson
Format: Audiobook
Narrators: Amy Hall and Jacob Morgan
📖- 4.5
🎙️- 5
🌶️- 2.5
Tropes:
🔪 Dark Romance
🩸 Female Serial Killer
🔪 Forced Proximity
🩸 Morally Grey Characters
🔪 Touch her/ him and 💀
When the stalker gets stalked and then forced to move in together, you know things are going to get interesting. A Deal With A Reaper is a dark themed, MC romance that has all the spice, charisma and charm you could ever want. This book was so freaking good! I initially wanted to listen to the audio, specifically for the narrators. I adore Marie Hawkins and Jacob Morgan is one of my absolute favorites, but then I quickly became invested in the storyline, the characters, and the banter. Told in duet style, it’s easy to fall face first into this book with these narrators bringing the words to life.
A female serial killer? Who still has time for Taco Tuesday’s and margaritas with her besties? LFG…! Am I picking up Dexter vibes? I knew from the very beginning, I was going to love June. The banter between her and Theo is chef’s kiss; and I could not get enough. When he explained why he gave her the nickname Little Reaper, I had to pause the audio because I couldn’t stop giggling. The mumbling under the breath, trying to make the point… hilarious and adorable! Quick-witted characters hold my whole heart and these two killed it (pun intended) 😉
Beware of listening in public because once the spice hits, it’s on point and pure FIRE. I enjoyed that this book wasn’t necessarily a dark romance, but more dark themed. For me, this allowed for the comical vibes that made me love this book even more.
Format: Audiobook
Narrators: Amy Hall and Jacob Morgan
📖- 4.5
🎙️- 5
🌶️- 2.5
Tropes:
🔪 Dark Romance
🩸 Female Serial Killer
🔪 Forced Proximity
🩸 Morally Grey Characters
🔪 Touch her/ him and 💀
When the stalker gets stalked and then forced to move in together, you know things are going to get interesting. A Deal With A Reaper is a dark themed, MC romance that has all the spice, charisma and charm you could ever want. This book was so freaking good! I initially wanted to listen to the audio, specifically for the narrators. I adore Marie Hawkins and Jacob Morgan is one of my absolute favorites, but then I quickly became invested in the storyline, the characters, and the banter. Told in duet style, it’s easy to fall face first into this book with these narrators bringing the words to life.
A female serial killer? Who still has time for Taco Tuesday’s and margaritas with her besties? LFG…! Am I picking up Dexter vibes? I knew from the very beginning, I was going to love June. The banter between her and Theo is chef’s kiss; and I could not get enough. When he explained why he gave her the nickname Little Reaper, I had to pause the audio because I couldn’t stop giggling. The mumbling under the breath, trying to make the point… hilarious and adorable! Quick-witted characters hold my whole heart and these two killed it (pun intended) 😉
Beware of listening in public because once the spice hits, it’s on point and pure FIRE. I enjoyed that this book wasn’t necessarily a dark romance, but more dark themed. For me, this allowed for the comical vibes that made me love this book even more.
June 12, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ /5
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ /5
First off, I want to thank Madison for the opportunity to be a part of this ARC. 🫶
Lately I’ve been reading a lot of strong and bada$$ FMC and June was absolutely one strong woman to add to my list!
Having her own traumatic and abusive past, June sets out to make a change and do some “good” in the world. She becomes a therapist, helping other women navigate their own experiences of abuse… and seeking justice, for them and for herself, at the same time. That is until she settles on the next name on her list… Theo Zervas.
Theo is the president of the Saints of Purgatory, a local motorcycle club, and one with his head always on a swivel. Theo is no stranger to death, danger and breaking the law so noticing his little shadow following him wasn’t hard.
From the moment he saw June at the cafe, he could tell she was watching and stalking him, just didn’t know why. So when she finally makes her move, he is prepared and catches her off guard when he gives her an ultimatum— she can either come live with him as a Saints of Purgatory for one month or he turns in all the evidence he’s gathered on her to the cops.
Forced to move in with Theo, June expects tension—but not the kind that comes with blood on their hands. With his secret side job putting her in danger and her own murderous impulses stirring, the next thirty days promise chaos they never saw coming.
I absolutely loved getting to know June and Theo and all of their closest friends. James, Sadie, and Luna were some of my favorite side characters and I am already DYING for Sadie and James’ story!
𝕿𝖗𝖔𝖕𝖊𝖘:
🖤 Enemies to Lovers
🖤 Touch her & 💀
🖤 Motorcycle Club
🖤 Pierced & Tattooed MMC
🖤 Therapist & Serial Killer FMC
🖤 Morally Grey characters
🖤 Found Family
🖤 Painful & traumatic pasts
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ /5
First off, I want to thank Madison for the opportunity to be a part of this ARC. 🫶
Lately I’ve been reading a lot of strong and bada$$ FMC and June was absolutely one strong woman to add to my list!
Having her own traumatic and abusive past, June sets out to make a change and do some “good” in the world. She becomes a therapist, helping other women navigate their own experiences of abuse… and seeking justice, for them and for herself, at the same time. That is until she settles on the next name on her list… Theo Zervas.
Theo is the president of the Saints of Purgatory, a local motorcycle club, and one with his head always on a swivel. Theo is no stranger to death, danger and breaking the law so noticing his little shadow following him wasn’t hard.
From the moment he saw June at the cafe, he could tell she was watching and stalking him, just didn’t know why. So when she finally makes her move, he is prepared and catches her off guard when he gives her an ultimatum— she can either come live with him as a Saints of Purgatory for one month or he turns in all the evidence he’s gathered on her to the cops.
Forced to move in with Theo, June expects tension—but not the kind that comes with blood on their hands. With his secret side job putting her in danger and her own murderous impulses stirring, the next thirty days promise chaos they never saw coming.
I absolutely loved getting to know June and Theo and all of their closest friends. James, Sadie, and Luna were some of my favorite side characters and I am already DYING for Sadie and James’ story!
𝕿𝖗𝖔𝖕𝖊𝖘:
🖤 Enemies to Lovers
🖤 Touch her & 💀
🖤 Motorcycle Club
🖤 Pierced & Tattooed MMC
🖤 Therapist & Serial Killer FMC
🖤 Morally Grey characters
🖤 Found Family
🖤 Painful & traumatic pasts
October 30, 2025
Audio:
5 stars for Marie Hawkins
5 stars for Jacob Morgan
Told in duet style
Book: 4.5 stars
Loved this book! Can’t wait until book 2 comes out!
5 stars for Marie Hawkins
5 stars for Jacob Morgan
Told in duet style
Book: 4.5 stars
Loved this book! Can’t wait until book 2 comes out!
December 15, 2025
I had a BLAST with the audiobook! The characters had amazing chemistry and dynamic. She’s a serial unaliver and he’s the boss of a motorcycle gang! Enough said!
October 27, 2025
A Therapist exacts vengeance on behalf of her patients against the shitty men who assault/abuse them or others… SHE is a serial killer with a fitting last name “Graves”. She is careful not to leave a trace, but someone is on to her!
He is a Motorcycle Club President who notices a woman keeping tabs on him for a while, and then stops her right as she tries to drug and kill him! He is not who she thinks he is, and he makes a deal with his “little reaper” for a month to prove it!
The storyline was fantastic, I love that she was the serial killer this time (as most dark romances it is typically the male, or even both characters). And of course we love a man with a tragic backstory!
Fav side character had to be Luna (& Sadie)! I love a bad ass, super supportive bestie!
I got the Advanced Listener Copy of the Audiobook, and listened while I read it on my kindle (so I could keep all my notes)… I love Duet Narration! (No one is trying to sound like the opposite gender which can make things sound silly, and can take me out of a story) the narrators did a great job with their inflections and keeping with how the characters would react in their situations. (And the editors did good too! No lags, or slip ups or weird background noises)
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
Mostly MF cause he’s a possessive alphahole (which we love), but that MFF(?) moment when he shared her with Luna was a fun time!
He is a Motorcycle Club President who notices a woman keeping tabs on him for a while, and then stops her right as she tries to drug and kill him! He is not who she thinks he is, and he makes a deal with his “little reaper” for a month to prove it!
The storyline was fantastic, I love that she was the serial killer this time (as most dark romances it is typically the male, or even both characters). And of course we love a man with a tragic backstory!
Fav side character had to be Luna (& Sadie)! I love a bad ass, super supportive bestie!
I got the Advanced Listener Copy of the Audiobook, and listened while I read it on my kindle (so I could keep all my notes)… I love Duet Narration! (No one is trying to sound like the opposite gender which can make things sound silly, and can take me out of a story) the narrators did a great job with their inflections and keeping with how the characters would react in their situations. (And the editors did good too! No lags, or slip ups or weird background noises)
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
Mostly MF cause he’s a possessive alphahole (which we love), but that MFF(?) moment when he shared her with Luna was a fun time!
November 24, 2025
Did I hear a tiny clip of the audio of this book on TikTok and decide to read it? Sure did. We know I love an impulsive, why TF not book. It’s funny there aren’t many reviews on this book considering there’s a wait on the book on my Libby. Anyways, I enjoyed this book. Who doesn’t enjoy a badass FMC? Like who’s a bad ass from start to finish? I know I do. Plus the MMC has to prove himself to her? Yep. Loved it. I can only read so many frail FMCs so many times. When I find a badass FMC, it’s a fresh breath of air. This book does have insta lust vibes (but also not, it’s a slow burn too), and it is a motorcycle club (MC).She is definitely more morally grey than he is. I actually enjoyed the plot on this one. It is a little different. Which is nice. A lot of MC books tend to have the same tropes (that I love and will always go back to), so it’s always enjoyable when you find that’s not the usual. The book is dark, so check your TWs. This book does have some humor, and then later touches on delicate topics. I enjoyed the book’s dynamics. I haven’t read anything from this series before, and I can say I wasn’t let down. I really did enjoy this book.
This contemporary romance is part of the Saints of Purgatory series. This book does have darker topics, themes, and scenes. The romance in this book is enemies to lovers. The book does have open door spice. June makes sure those who hurt the innocent can’t anymore, and Theo is next on her list. Theo makes a deal to save himself. A month to determine if he really deserves to die, and she has to make that choice by being with him 24/7.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
🚫Check TWS
🎧Audiobook with 📱Ebook
This contemporary romance is part of the Saints of Purgatory series. This book does have darker topics, themes, and scenes. The romance in this book is enemies to lovers. The book does have open door spice. June makes sure those who hurt the innocent can’t anymore, and Theo is next on her list. Theo makes a deal to save himself. A month to determine if he really deserves to die, and she has to make that choice by being with him 24/7.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
🚫Check TWS
🎧Audiobook with 📱Ebook
December 3, 2025
A serial killer woman and motorcycle gang leader. For the love of god write more books like this! Honestly, I’ve been in a reading slump and this book DELIVERED even more than I expected.🤏🏻🤍
June 28, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
Thank you to the author for an ARC of this book!
Whewww this was so good! I fell in love with all of the characters—especially the morally grey ones—and minor characters really stood out in this one. This is only my second motorcycle club book, and I am loving it! Madison did a great job of making the reader feel like part of this family and detailing the intricacies and codes everyone lives by.
The spice was SPICY 🥵 and I loved every word of it. The devotion and chemistry between the two main characters was unhinged and so special. The twists were twisting. Definitely cannot wait to read James and Sadie’s story in the next book!
✔️ Enemies to lovers
✔️ Motorcycle Club
✔️ Strong FMC
✔️ Touch her and die
✔️ SPICE
✔️ Found family
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
Thank you to the author for an ARC of this book!
Whewww this was so good! I fell in love with all of the characters—especially the morally grey ones—and minor characters really stood out in this one. This is only my second motorcycle club book, and I am loving it! Madison did a great job of making the reader feel like part of this family and detailing the intricacies and codes everyone lives by.
The spice was SPICY 🥵 and I loved every word of it. The devotion and chemistry between the two main characters was unhinged and so special. The twists were twisting. Definitely cannot wait to read James and Sadie’s story in the next book!
✔️ Enemies to lovers
✔️ Motorcycle Club
✔️ Strong FMC
✔️ Touch her and die
✔️ SPICE
✔️ Found family
November 7, 2025
Rating 4.75⭐️
Spice 🛵🔪🩸💉
ALC Review
If you liked Light Out by Navessa Allen, then i think you may like this one. Granted, this book is slightly more darker themed than Lights Out, but it had similar vibes in a different way.
Mini Summary: You get Theo who is a golden retriever crazy mofo, and then there’s June who is a grumpy black cat. We get a fake dating, arrange forced proximity going on between them. June must stay with Theo for a month before deciding to off his head. Of course, with fake dating ensues, some feelings are slowly turning to not be fake after all. What will June decide once the month is up? Will she fulfill her promise to end him? Or will feelings start to sprout and ride Theo instead?
I definitely recommend the audiobook. You get Jacob Morgan (who in fact does Light’s Out as well mwahahaha), and Marie Hawkins who did an amazing job as June. I will dock off a small super small point for the audiobook because I did get some of the recording cut off, so I do hope it got fixed! Luckily they were minor recording issues, but they were noticeable on my end at least.
I really enjoyed the banter and quips between all the characters, it really got me hooked from the start. Not to mention a little There was a scene I legit almost cried, BUT I DIDN’T. I almost did. It was so sad and i empathized the character for it.
The ending is what mostly caught me off guard. I wasn’t sure where it was going with it, but it was a bit weird? Maybe a little rushed? We knew the character was onto something, but I personally didn’t see the foreshadow that would leave and such
I am super excited to read the next book. We have gotten hints who the will be the main characters in book 2, and I think i may enjoy it a lot more!
Thank you to the author for allowing me to read the ARC! I had such a good time reading it.
This review is my true and honest thoughts
Spice 🛵🔪🩸💉
ALC Review
If you liked Light Out by Navessa Allen, then i think you may like this one. Granted, this book is slightly more darker themed than Lights Out, but it had similar vibes in a different way.
Mini Summary: You get Theo who is a golden retriever crazy mofo, and then there’s June who is a grumpy black cat. We get a fake dating, arrange forced proximity going on between them. June must stay with Theo for a month before deciding to off his head. Of course, with fake dating ensues, some feelings are slowly turning to not be fake after all. What will June decide once the month is up? Will she fulfill her promise to end him? Or will feelings start to sprout and ride Theo instead?
I definitely recommend the audiobook. You get Jacob Morgan (who in fact does Light’s Out as well mwahahaha), and Marie Hawkins who did an amazing job as June. I will dock off a small super small point for the audiobook because I did get some of the recording cut off, so I do hope it got fixed! Luckily they were minor recording issues, but they were noticeable on my end at least.
I really enjoyed the banter and quips between all the characters, it really got me hooked from the start. Not to mention a little There was a scene I legit almost cried, BUT I DIDN’T. I almost did. It was so sad and i empathized the character for it.
The ending is what mostly caught me off guard. I wasn’t sure where it was going with it, but it was a bit weird? Maybe a little rushed? We knew the character was onto something, but I personally didn’t see the foreshadow that would leave and such
I am super excited to read the next book. We have gotten hints who the will be the main characters in book 2, and I think i may enjoy it a lot more!
Thank you to the author for allowing me to read the ARC! I had such a good time reading it.
This review is my true and honest thoughts
October 12, 2025
Audiobook release: October 28th!
🔥
Story: 5 STARS
Voice Acting: 5 Stars
Spice:🔥🔥🔥 (closer to 4🔥)
Dark, steamy, and surprisingly funny, an emotional rollercoaster. It’s equal parts danger, tension, and raw chemistry, and the spice is SO GOOD! Everyone needs to listen to this audiobook, I laughed, swooned, cried a little and had to fan myself a few times 🥵. This story has it all and I'm eagerly awaiting book two! June and Theo’s connection is magnetic. From their first scene together, you can feel the tension humming under every word. Their banter is sharp and clever, resulting in many laugh-out-loud moments. This is NOT a slow-burn dark romance and I loved that! The spice is hot, and there’s a lot of it but it doesn’t take away from the story.
🎙️
Marie Hawkins is incredible. She captures June’s fierce, attitude perfectly, every line radiates confidence, sarcasm, and strength. June is a total bad-ass, and Marie plays her with that perfect mix of fire and vulnerability. Her comedic timing in the banter scenes is spot-on, she keeps pace with Jacob Morgan’s deep, brooding energy effortlessly, making their verbal sparring sound natural. The spicy scenes are delivered with just the right tone, confident, intimate, and emotionally charged without ever feeling forced.
🎙️
Jacob Morgan completely owns this performance. His voice captures Theo’s rough edges, quiet intensity, and hidden vulnerability, but what really stands out is how effortlessly he delivers humor. He nails the dry sarcasm and teasing moments between June and Theo, giving their banter real personality and timing. When the story heats his tone adds that extra layer of tension and intimacy that pulls you right into the scene. 🔥
I am so happy that I applied for this ALC, it did not disappoint! Thank you so much Madison, this is a new favorite. ❤️
🔥
Story: 5 STARS
Voice Acting: 5 Stars
Spice:🔥🔥🔥 (closer to 4🔥)
Dark, steamy, and surprisingly funny, an emotional rollercoaster. It’s equal parts danger, tension, and raw chemistry, and the spice is SO GOOD! Everyone needs to listen to this audiobook, I laughed, swooned, cried a little and had to fan myself a few times 🥵. This story has it all and I'm eagerly awaiting book two! June and Theo’s connection is magnetic. From their first scene together, you can feel the tension humming under every word. Their banter is sharp and clever, resulting in many laugh-out-loud moments. This is NOT a slow-burn dark romance and I loved that! The spice is hot, and there’s a lot of it but it doesn’t take away from the story.
🎙️
Marie Hawkins is incredible. She captures June’s fierce, attitude perfectly, every line radiates confidence, sarcasm, and strength. June is a total bad-ass, and Marie plays her with that perfect mix of fire and vulnerability. Her comedic timing in the banter scenes is spot-on, she keeps pace with Jacob Morgan’s deep, brooding energy effortlessly, making their verbal sparring sound natural. The spicy scenes are delivered with just the right tone, confident, intimate, and emotionally charged without ever feeling forced.
🎙️
Jacob Morgan completely owns this performance. His voice captures Theo’s rough edges, quiet intensity, and hidden vulnerability, but what really stands out is how effortlessly he delivers humor. He nails the dry sarcasm and teasing moments between June and Theo, giving their banter real personality and timing. When the story heats his tone adds that extra layer of tension and intimacy that pulls you right into the scene. 🔥
I am so happy that I applied for this ALC, it did not disappoint! Thank you so much Madison, this is a new favorite. ❤️
October 13, 2025
Audiobook release: October 28th!
Story: 5 STARS
Voice Acting: 5 Stars
Spice:🔥🔥🔥 (closer to 4🔥)
Dark, steamy, and surprisingly funny, an emotional rollercoaster. It’s equal parts danger, tension, and raw chemistry, and the spice is SO GOOD! Everyone needs to listen to this audiobook, I laughed, swooned, cried a little and had to fan myself a few times 🥵. This story has it all and I'm eagerly awaiting book two! June and Theo’s connection is magnetic. From their first scene together, you can feel the tension humming under every word. Their banter is sharp and clever, resulting in many laugh-out-loud moments. This is NOT a slow-burn dark romance and I loved that! The spice is hot, and there’s a lot of it but it doesn’t take away from the story.
🎙️
Marie Hawkins is incredible. She captures June’s fierce, attitude perfectly, every line radiates confidence, sarcasm, and strength. June is a total bad-ass, and Marie plays her with that perfect mix of fire and vulnerability. Her comedic timing in the banter scenes is spot-on, she keeps pace with Jacob Morgan’s deep, brooding energy effortlessly, making their verbal sparring sound natural. The spicy scenes are delivered with just the right tone, confident, intimate, and emotionally charged without ever feeling forced.
🎙️
Jacob Morgan completely owns this performance. His voice captures Theo’s rough edges, quiet intensity, and hidden vulnerability, but what really stands out is how effortlessly he delivers humor. He nails the dry sarcasm and teasing moments between June and Theo, giving their banter real personality and timing. When the story heats his tone adds that extra layer of tension and intimacy that pulls you right into the scene. 🔥
Story: 5 STARS
Voice Acting: 5 Stars
Spice:🔥🔥🔥 (closer to 4🔥)
Dark, steamy, and surprisingly funny, an emotional rollercoaster. It’s equal parts danger, tension, and raw chemistry, and the spice is SO GOOD! Everyone needs to listen to this audiobook, I laughed, swooned, cried a little and had to fan myself a few times 🥵. This story has it all and I'm eagerly awaiting book two! June and Theo’s connection is magnetic. From their first scene together, you can feel the tension humming under every word. Their banter is sharp and clever, resulting in many laugh-out-loud moments. This is NOT a slow-burn dark romance and I loved that! The spice is hot, and there’s a lot of it but it doesn’t take away from the story.
🎙️
Marie Hawkins is incredible. She captures June’s fierce, attitude perfectly, every line radiates confidence, sarcasm, and strength. June is a total bad-ass, and Marie plays her with that perfect mix of fire and vulnerability. Her comedic timing in the banter scenes is spot-on, she keeps pace with Jacob Morgan’s deep, brooding energy effortlessly, making their verbal sparring sound natural. The spicy scenes are delivered with just the right tone, confident, intimate, and emotionally charged without ever feeling forced.
🎙️
Jacob Morgan completely owns this performance. His voice captures Theo’s rough edges, quiet intensity, and hidden vulnerability, but what really stands out is how effortlessly he delivers humor. He nails the dry sarcasm and teasing moments between June and Theo, giving their banter real personality and timing. When the story heats his tone adds that extra layer of tension and intimacy that pulls you right into the scene. 🔥
November 19, 2025
Story: 3.75 ⭐️
Audiobook: 5 ⭐️
Narrators: Marie Hawkins and Jacob Morgan
The Performance
Jacob Morgan is back as Theo Zervas, president of the Saints of Purgatory, and he’s just as good as you remember. He beautifully captures Theo’s strength and vulnerability. This is my first time listening to Marie Hawkins’ work, and she injected June Graves with so much grit and badassery. The two of them brought this book alive.
The Story
I feel like a lot of tension was missing on the page. Theo did a lot of things behind the scenes to lead the investigator away from June, and I wish we could have seen that from his perspective. I feel like it would have made the stakes much higher. This was my main critique, and the characters with their histories, friendships, and found family were more than enough to carry me through. Looking forward to the next book in the series!
Audiobook: 5 ⭐️
Narrators: Marie Hawkins and Jacob Morgan
The Performance
Jacob Morgan is back as Theo Zervas, president of the Saints of Purgatory, and he’s just as good as you remember. He beautifully captures Theo’s strength and vulnerability. This is my first time listening to Marie Hawkins’ work, and she injected June Graves with so much grit and badassery. The two of them brought this book alive.
The Story
I feel like a lot of tension was missing on the page. Theo did a lot of things behind the scenes to lead the investigator away from June, and I wish we could have seen that from his perspective. I feel like it would have made the stakes much higher. This was my main critique, and the characters with their histories, friendships, and found family were more than enough to carry me through. Looking forward to the next book in the series!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 1, 2026
I really enjoyed this book. Going in, I honestly thought I was only listening because Jacob Morgan—my favorite male narrator—was involved, and I fully expected it to be just another typical “dark romance.” I was pleasantly surprised to find that it was so much more than that.
The plot is actually quite good, and the characters are genuinely interesting, each with a lot of personality. Both the male and female narrators delivered fantastic performances that really brought the story to life. I was especially happy that this wasn’t just a case of seeing how much sex could be packed into one book—there was a real story here, with substance and depth, which made the whole experience far more enjoyable.
The plot is actually quite good, and the characters are genuinely interesting, each with a lot of personality. Both the male and female narrators delivered fantastic performances that really brought the story to life. I was especially happy that this wasn’t just a case of seeing how much sex could be packed into one book—there was a real story here, with substance and depth, which made the whole experience far more enjoyable.
January 12, 2026
There was a threesome, not my cup of tea, but overall the book was awesome.
November 10, 2025
There are two mysteries in this world: God’s ways and the ways of authors who find excuses for the forced proximity trope.
January 15, 2026
I loved it!!! I listened to the audiobook while reading it. The audiobook was 🔥 The narrators did such a great job. Loved the characters and story. Hoping for a second book 🤞
February 4, 2026
5⭐️
🌶️
Well I devoured that! 😍😍
If you like stabby FMCs then do yourself a favour a read this book, you will not be disappointed! There is heart ache, it's funny, there's some gore, though not enough in my opinion. It's got everything you need for the perfect dark romance!
I am obsessed with this whole world Madison has created and I can't wait for the rest of the books!!
🌶️
Well I devoured that! 😍😍
If you like stabby FMCs then do yourself a favour a read this book, you will not be disappointed! There is heart ache, it's funny, there's some gore, though not enough in my opinion. It's got everything you need for the perfect dark romance!
I am obsessed with this whole world Madison has created and I can't wait for the rest of the books!!
November 24, 2025
4.75⭐️
October 31, 2025
If you liked Josh from Lights Out you will devour this book. It’s a bit darker and a lot more smuttier. Seriously so much delicious smut!
Lots of emotions: I laughed and cried fell in love with Theo: he is the perfect blend of boyish cheekiness, damaged soul and fearless leader. I wish the book didn’t end so soon!
The performance was incredible! You can feel all the emotions of the characters.
This is by far (next to Lights Out) one of my favorite audio reads this year
Lots of emotions: I laughed and cried fell in love with Theo: he is the perfect blend of boyish cheekiness, damaged soul and fearless leader. I wish the book didn’t end so soon!
The performance was incredible! You can feel all the emotions of the characters.
This is by far (next to Lights Out) one of my favorite audio reads this year
Did not finish
November 9, 2025DNF @ CHAP 19, 41%
I saw some random's review that this was mind blowing. I should have known it's subjective.
Not only are both characters slow and annoying, if you're going to use sex as your main "weapon" against each other I might as well read full on smut.
No substance, no plot. Guess I'm growing up after all.
I saw some random's review that this was mind blowing. I should have known it's subjective.
Not only are both characters slow and annoying, if you're going to use sex as your main "weapon" against each other I might as well read full on smut.
No substance, no plot. Guess I'm growing up after all.
November 25, 2025
Did I like this type of story: NO
Did I listen to the audio only cuz Jacob Morgan narrated it: YES
Did I listen to the audio only cuz Jacob Morgan narrated it: YES
October 14, 2025
I just finished listening to A Deal With the Reaper and wow, what a wild and addictive ride! This book grabs you from the very first chapter and does not let go.
The main character, June, is one of the most unique FMCs I've ever come across. By day, she's a compassionate therapist but she also has a very dark hobby. She's this fascinating mix of a caring professional and a ruthless vigilante, and I was completely captivated by her.
Theo Zervas is on her radar, the formidable president of the ‘Saints of Purgatory’ motorcycle club. However, Theo is much smarter and more prepared than her previous interests. When her attack goes wrong, he manages to turn the tables and capture her. But instead of getting rid of her, he makes her an insane deal!
This is the most incredible enemies-to-lovers, forced-proximity story I have read currently. The tension between June and Theo is electric from the very beginning. Their chemistry is absolutely explosive and the author definitely delivers on the darker and spicier themes.
Listening to this on audiobook was fantastic. The Marie Hawkins did an amazing job capturing June’s cold and calculating side as well as her moments of vulnerability. Jacob Morgan brought out Theo’s backstory with all the feels, even when hidden! He brought Theo's authority and surprising depth to life to you.. and the performances made the highstakes moments and the sizzling chemistry even more gripping. It really amplified the whole experience.
This is dark romance and the author provides a detailed list of trigger warnings for a reason so be sure to check those out before diving in. My heart ached at one particular chapter, and I wanted to hug Theo and cry!
But if you love stories with morally grey characters and a scorching hot MC romance, then you will absolutely devour this book. I loved every minute and can't wait for more from the Saints of Purgatory!
The main character, June, is one of the most unique FMCs I've ever come across. By day, she's a compassionate therapist but she also has a very dark hobby. She's this fascinating mix of a caring professional and a ruthless vigilante, and I was completely captivated by her.
Theo Zervas is on her radar, the formidable president of the ‘Saints of Purgatory’ motorcycle club. However, Theo is much smarter and more prepared than her previous interests. When her attack goes wrong, he manages to turn the tables and capture her. But instead of getting rid of her, he makes her an insane deal!
This is the most incredible enemies-to-lovers, forced-proximity story I have read currently. The tension between June and Theo is electric from the very beginning. Their chemistry is absolutely explosive and the author definitely delivers on the darker and spicier themes.
Listening to this on audiobook was fantastic. The Marie Hawkins did an amazing job capturing June’s cold and calculating side as well as her moments of vulnerability. Jacob Morgan brought out Theo’s backstory with all the feels, even when hidden! He brought Theo's authority and surprising depth to life to you.. and the performances made the highstakes moments and the sizzling chemistry even more gripping. It really amplified the whole experience.
This is dark romance and the author provides a detailed list of trigger warnings for a reason so be sure to check those out before diving in. My heart ached at one particular chapter, and I wanted to hug Theo and cry!
But if you love stories with morally grey characters and a scorching hot MC romance, then you will absolutely devour this book. I loved every minute and can't wait for more from the Saints of Purgatory!
October 17, 2025
Story ♾️
Audiobook♾️
Spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Spoiler free review
A Deal with the Reaper by Madison Lawson is a dark Motorcycle club romance. Let me start by saying that it is A FAVOURITE book of this year! Dark, funny, oh let me say this again funny! Steamy scenes, amazing banter, and an emotional rollercoaster, this book has them all! Madison delivers characters with absolutely raw chemistry. June and Theo have conquered me and carved themselves in my heart forever! From the first chapter, I was hooked and I wanted to claim June as mine! Forget climbing a man like a tree I wanna climb her!
I loved that this was not a slow burn and things worked up pretty fast to the hot and steamy. Madison is a master mind with her words and the way she builds the story!
Audiobook: this is a duet-style narration by two of the royalty of audiobooks, Marie Hawkins and Jacob Morgan. And boy oh boy did they deliver!
Marie has captured June to a T, her attitude, her sarcasm, her confidence and brilliance. Marie has not missed any punch line or vulnerable moment that June had. When June is in her morally pitch black mode, Marie played her so well and so unhinged.
Jacob Morgan, you already know him, he doesn't need any sort of introduction. He owned Theo as a character. I believe some people are just meant to be some specific characters and their voices will fit perfectly, this is one of those perfect fits, like a glove! His voice captured everything, his roughness, his intensity, but also his humour.
Marie and Jacob together with this story are a force to be reckoned with. They have brought their A game and poured all the passion for the job in this performance!
Thank you so much Madison for allowing me this opportunity and for trusting me to listen to this ALC! This review is my honest opinion.
Audiobook♾️
Spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Spoiler free review
A Deal with the Reaper by Madison Lawson is a dark Motorcycle club romance. Let me start by saying that it is A FAVOURITE book of this year! Dark, funny, oh let me say this again funny! Steamy scenes, amazing banter, and an emotional rollercoaster, this book has them all! Madison delivers characters with absolutely raw chemistry. June and Theo have conquered me and carved themselves in my heart forever! From the first chapter, I was hooked and I wanted to claim June as mine! Forget climbing a man like a tree I wanna climb her!
I loved that this was not a slow burn and things worked up pretty fast to the hot and steamy. Madison is a master mind with her words and the way she builds the story!
Audiobook: this is a duet-style narration by two of the royalty of audiobooks, Marie Hawkins and Jacob Morgan. And boy oh boy did they deliver!
Marie has captured June to a T, her attitude, her sarcasm, her confidence and brilliance. Marie has not missed any punch line or vulnerable moment that June had. When June is in her morally pitch black mode, Marie played her so well and so unhinged.
Jacob Morgan, you already know him, he doesn't need any sort of introduction. He owned Theo as a character. I believe some people are just meant to be some specific characters and their voices will fit perfectly, this is one of those perfect fits, like a glove! His voice captured everything, his roughness, his intensity, but also his humour.
Marie and Jacob together with this story are a force to be reckoned with. They have brought their A game and poured all the passion for the job in this performance!
Thank you so much Madison for allowing me this opportunity and for trusting me to listen to this ALC! This review is my honest opinion.
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