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Faded Rhythm
King
Her husband wants her dead..
It’s supposed to be like any other job. Get in, get my mark, and get out. No emotional ties, no attachments, no second thoughts. Until I see her. Sable, the beautiful, mysterious daughter of a legendary rap mogul and loving mother of two little girls.
I hesitate.
It’s not that I can’t do it. I don’t want to. Instead, I do something even I show up at her door with a gun...and a warning. I was sent to end her life. Now, I’m the only person who can save it.
If I were her, I wouldn’t trust me. She’s so fine, I barely trust myself around her...
Sable
He’s detached. Dangerous. And way too handsome to be a cold-blooded killer. King says he’s here to help me, but I saw it in his eyes...he was ready to pull the trigger. I don’t know if I should trust him, but I have no other choice. My only hope for survival is to figure out why my husband wants me gone.
But the deeper we dig, the darker the truth becomes, and somewhere between the secrets and the danger, a fire sparks between us, burning hot and impossible to ignore. It’s terrifying to realize the man who was sent to end me is the only one who’s ever really seen me.
Her husband wants her dead..
It’s supposed to be like any other job. Get in, get my mark, and get out. No emotional ties, no attachments, no second thoughts. Until I see her. Sable, the beautiful, mysterious daughter of a legendary rap mogul and loving mother of two little girls.
I hesitate.
It’s not that I can’t do it. I don’t want to. Instead, I do something even I show up at her door with a gun...and a warning. I was sent to end her life. Now, I’m the only person who can save it.
If I were her, I wouldn’t trust me. She’s so fine, I barely trust myself around her...
Sable
He’s detached. Dangerous. And way too handsome to be a cold-blooded killer. King says he’s here to help me, but I saw it in his eyes...he was ready to pull the trigger. I don’t know if I should trust him, but I have no other choice. My only hope for survival is to figure out why my husband wants me gone.
But the deeper we dig, the darker the truth becomes, and somewhere between the secrets and the danger, a fire sparks between us, burning hot and impossible to ignore. It’s terrifying to realize the man who was sent to end me is the only one who’s ever really seen me.
330 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 3, 2025
122 people are currently reading
99 people want to read
About the author
Shae Sanders
51 books586 followersJust a girl who loves black love. Reading it, writing it, and living it.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
September 3, 2025
I had a good time. There was drama, suspense, mystery and emotions. It kept my attention the whole time and definitely enjoyed myself!
July 9, 2025
I was a solid 3.5⭐️ on this book until the last quarter of the book when the inconsistencies started to annoy me.
Let me tell you why:
- How do they go on the run and she kept her cellphone. Running 101 says you must get rid of your cellphone and only use a burner phone.
- How could Sable keep trying to leave knowing she was hiding out with her hitman? You knew your husband wanted you dead so ummmm maybe act a little more scared instead of stupid? Like the reason you were took is cause of your own stupidity.
- Why we’re they surprised that others kept finding them? Two words - HER CELLPHONE!
- What Hitman lets a witness see his face so he has to flee the country? Yo I’d want my money back! Oh wait he killed you after taking your money.
- What should have been awesome twists and reveals just seemed normal in this foolishness. Mmmmm baby daddy was killed by Julian years ago.
- One more - Julian needs a refund on whoever set up his perimeter security cause it didn’t work! Secured fortress my ass!
The story:
Sable is married to Brett. Brett hires a hitman to kill her. Her hitman after a week of surveillance falls for her. So instead of killing her he tells her that her husband wants her dead. They concoct a plan to make it look like Sable’s dead but it doesn’t work. So King/Julian takes Sable and her kids on the run….and while running they fall in love. Julian claims the family that Brett no longer wants.
There are a couple of twists. One that I saw coming and one that I didn’t. But Julian and Sable do get a HEA…and I was disappointed in this story. I’ve read some wonderful books by Shae but this wasn’t it. Will I read her next one? Of course. Just cause this one didn’t hit doesn’t mean future ones won’t. Also, can we proofread a little better next go round…there were quite a few grammatical and proofing issues especially near the end.
Borrowed this from Kindle Unlimited.
Let me tell you why:
- How do they go on the run and she kept her cellphone. Running 101 says you must get rid of your cellphone and only use a burner phone.
- How could Sable keep trying to leave knowing she was hiding out with her hitman? You knew your husband wanted you dead so ummmm maybe act a little more scared instead of stupid? Like the reason you were took is cause of your own stupidity.
- Why we’re they surprised that others kept finding them? Two words - HER CELLPHONE!
- What Hitman lets a witness see his face so he has to flee the country? Yo I’d want my money back! Oh wait he killed you after taking your money.
- What should have been awesome twists and reveals just seemed normal in this foolishness. Mmmmm baby daddy was killed by Julian years ago.
- One more - Julian needs a refund on whoever set up his perimeter security cause it didn’t work! Secured fortress my ass!
The story:
Sable is married to Brett. Brett hires a hitman to kill her. Her hitman after a week of surveillance falls for her. So instead of killing her he tells her that her husband wants her dead. They concoct a plan to make it look like Sable’s dead but it doesn’t work. So King/Julian takes Sable and her kids on the run….and while running they fall in love. Julian claims the family that Brett no longer wants.
There are a couple of twists. One that I saw coming and one that I didn’t. But Julian and Sable do get a HEA…and I was disappointed in this story. I’ve read some wonderful books by Shae but this wasn’t it. Will I read her next one? Of course. Just cause this one didn’t hit doesn’t mean future ones won’t. Also, can we proofread a little better next go round…there were quite a few grammatical and proofing issues especially near the end.
Borrowed this from Kindle Unlimited.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 5, 2025
⭐️⭐️
I really wanted to love this, it definitely started off interesting. But somewhere along the way, the secrets didn’t make sense. I walked away with more questions. Like what was the reason for the paternity issue? Why did she end up with Brett in the beginning? What was the Texican, Redd, Mila angle about?
It seemed like Dime was on to something about the women in that family.
I loved that Julian got a family. But he deserved better than Sable.
I really wanted to love this, it definitely started off interesting. But somewhere along the way, the secrets didn’t make sense. I walked away with more questions. Like what was the reason for the paternity issue? Why did she end up with Brett in the beginning? What was the Texican, Redd, Mila angle about?
It seemed like Dime was on to something about the women in that family.
I loved that Julian got a family. But he deserved better than Sable.
July 8, 2025
King has endured a lot in his life and is now an unfeeling contract killer. Taking on a case to unalive a woman, gives him pause, but money is money, right? However, while doing his research, something is off. Scratch that, everything is off about this whole set-up. Why does this woman’s husband want her dead? His gut is telling him that he shouldn’t do this, so he does the unthinkable and decides to help her outwit her husband. While doing so shared glances, small touches, and words of understanding start to make him “feel.” Feeling is something that he hasn’t done in a long time, so he knows that he is in trouble.
Sable says she has no idea why her husband wants her outta here, but I get the sense that she is hiding something. So does King. But what? Sable should be terrified of this man approaching her with a gun to her head. But surprisingly she isn’t. The more time she spends around him, the more comfortable she feels. She hasn’t had anyone pay attention to her in ages, and it feels good to be wanted. She gives him a soft spot to land, and to feel vulnerable in a way he never has before. Sable had me scratching my head a bit. Ma’am, if you know that your husband is tracking your movements, why are you moving reckless like this? Especially with the man who is supposed to take you out. 👀
What is Brett up to? What is his motive, and why did he choose King to take out Sable? Seems too calculated to me. Hmmmm…. When all the pieces come together, I was like that’s it? 🤯 But I guess people do what they have to for greed right? Okay read.
Sable says she has no idea why her husband wants her outta here, but I get the sense that she is hiding something. So does King. But what? Sable should be terrified of this man approaching her with a gun to her head. But surprisingly she isn’t. The more time she spends around him, the more comfortable she feels. She hasn’t had anyone pay attention to her in ages, and it feels good to be wanted. She gives him a soft spot to land, and to feel vulnerable in a way he never has before. Sable had me scratching my head a bit. Ma’am, if you know that your husband is tracking your movements, why are you moving reckless like this? Especially with the man who is supposed to take you out. 👀
What is Brett up to? What is his motive, and why did he choose King to take out Sable? Seems too calculated to me. Hmmmm…. When all the pieces come together, I was like that’s it? 🤯 But I guess people do what they have to for greed right? Okay read.
January 15, 2026
Faded Rhythm by Shae Sanders reminded me exactly why she’s an automatic-read author for me. This story grabbed my attention from the first chapter and held it tight with twists I never saw coming.
This was my first hitman romance, and Shae made the genre feel effortless. She balances danger, vulnerability, and romance in a way that feels cinematic. King was a standout—laser-focused, emotionally guarded, and committed to the mission… until the woman who shifts everything steps into view. Watching him unravel, soften, and rebuild himself was some of the best character development I’ve read from this trope.
The plot moves with sharp pacing, the tension is addictive, and the chemistry? Off the charts. I loved how Shae created two people wounded by life yet still willing to reach for love in the midst of chaos. The suspense kept me alert, the heat kept me invested, and the emotional arcs gave this story its punch.
A gripping, romantic, and high-stakes read. Shae Sanders delivers, as always.
This was my first hitman romance, and Shae made the genre feel effortless. She balances danger, vulnerability, and romance in a way that feels cinematic. King was a standout—laser-focused, emotionally guarded, and committed to the mission… until the woman who shifts everything steps into view. Watching him unravel, soften, and rebuild himself was some of the best character development I’ve read from this trope.
The plot moves with sharp pacing, the tension is addictive, and the chemistry? Off the charts. I loved how Shae created two people wounded by life yet still willing to reach for love in the midst of chaos. The suspense kept me alert, the heat kept me invested, and the emotional arcs gave this story its punch.
A gripping, romantic, and high-stakes read. Shae Sanders delivers, as always.
July 5, 2025
He had a singular mission: eliminate his target. But everything changed the moment he laid eyes on her.
King was no stranger to chaos. With a military background that left him soaked in blood and shadows, he had transitioned to a life of mercenary work, offering his deadly skills for a price. But the moment he saw her, his world flipped upside down. Now caught in a whirlwind of conflicting loyalties, he was fiercely determined to protect her—no matter the cost.
This was my first dive into a Shae Sanders novel, and let me tell you, I was hooked! I devoured this book in one day and can’t wait to add this gem to my trophy collection—aka my bookshelf. Every aspect of this story was spot-on, and I’m officially tumbling down the rabbit hole of her catalog!
King was no stranger to chaos. With a military background that left him soaked in blood and shadows, he had transitioned to a life of mercenary work, offering his deadly skills for a price. But the moment he saw her, his world flipped upside down. Now caught in a whirlwind of conflicting loyalties, he was fiercely determined to protect her—no matter the cost.
This was my first dive into a Shae Sanders novel, and let me tell you, I was hooked! I devoured this book in one day and can’t wait to add this gem to my trophy collection—aka my bookshelf. Every aspect of this story was spot-on, and I’m officially tumbling down the rabbit hole of her catalog!
July 31, 2025
3.5
Plot wise, there was an immense amount of potential but kind of went off track.
The plan to deceive Sable's husband and pretend that she was dead was real loosy goosy & felt like it would fail from the beginning....and did.
Other plot points seemed unnecessarily messy; Sable's first kid isn't Brent's. She isn't her dad's kid. Her real dad was killed. Her daughter's father was also killed. Why? The idea of hitman falling for his target is fun and Julian's past provides enough substance.
Decisions were made.....and not all of them were good.
Plot wise, there was an immense amount of potential but kind of went off track.
The plan to deceive Sable's husband and pretend that she was dead was real loosy goosy & felt like it would fail from the beginning....and did.
Other plot points seemed unnecessarily messy; Sable's first kid isn't Brent's. She isn't her dad's kid. Her real dad was killed. Her daughter's father was also killed. Why? The idea of hitman falling for his target is fun and Julian's past provides enough substance.
Decisions were made.....and not all of them were good.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 14, 2025
This was real good. You all, I'm telling you. I was not expecting this story. The husband's why he wanted to disappear his wife was all of the Benjamins.
July 27, 2025
I love me a romance where the man is way more sprung than the woman is. As soon as we crack open “Faded Rhythm” (or, for us kindle girlies, tap the cover to the first page), we learn that Julian is gonna be down bad for Sable.
Julian fights the connection between him and Sable but eventually gives in. Julian has a very hard exterior and interior due to a neglectful childhood and then becoming a special ops army guy. That hard shell didn’t stand a chance against Sable, Kelcie, and Rae though. Throughout “Faded Rhythm”, we witness Julian’s hardness deteriorating and his inner child healing thanks to his time spent with his girls.
Sable was an almost perfect FMC. She knew what she wanted and would go after it, she was a great mom, and her vibe was just pleasant. All of the characters (except Brett) really loved her. Brett’s dismissiveness of Sable did make her question herself in the beginning, but Julian’s attentiveness helped to rectify that.
We don’t really know the age of anyone in “Faded Rhythm”. With a bit of math, I figured out Julian is 33 or 34 but everyone else 🤷🏾♀️ I would’ve really liked to have known Kelcie and Rae’s ages. Sometimes the way they talked or observed something made them feel a bit mature. I’m going to guess they’re both between 5 and 10.
The subplot revolves around Julian and Sable trying to figure out why Brett put a hit out on Sable. Although I liked this book, I feel like it was longer than it needed to be. The whole Redd Clay-Texican/Big Ray-Dime situation of the subplot was so convoluted and unnecessary to the plot. The Dash situation did make things make sense though.
Julian fights the connection between him and Sable but eventually gives in. Julian has a very hard exterior and interior due to a neglectful childhood and then becoming a special ops army guy. That hard shell didn’t stand a chance against Sable, Kelcie, and Rae though. Throughout “Faded Rhythm”, we witness Julian’s hardness deteriorating and his inner child healing thanks to his time spent with his girls.
Sable was an almost perfect FMC. She knew what she wanted and would go after it, she was a great mom, and her vibe was just pleasant. All of the characters (except Brett) really loved her. Brett’s dismissiveness of Sable did make her question herself in the beginning, but Julian’s attentiveness helped to rectify that.
We don’t really know the age of anyone in “Faded Rhythm”. With a bit of math, I figured out Julian is 33 or 34 but everyone else 🤷🏾♀️ I would’ve really liked to have known Kelcie and Rae’s ages. Sometimes the way they talked or observed something made them feel a bit mature. I’m going to guess they’re both between 5 and 10.
The subplot revolves around Julian and Sable trying to figure out why Brett put a hit out on Sable. Although I liked this book, I feel like it was longer than it needed to be. The whole Redd Clay-Texican/Big Ray-Dime situation of the subplot was so convoluted and unnecessary to the plot. The Dash situation did make things make sense though.
July 6, 2025
Man, the amount of secrets that came out in this book! The chemistry between Julian & Sable was palpable. They couldn’t resist each other no matter how hard they tried, even though their romance was technically forbidden. I like that he finally found a home & a family in her and she received validation and love. As her secrets started coming out though I wish there was a little more of an explanation for why she moved the way she did beyond Julian absolving her and essentially being like “love makes you move funny”. I wanted to hear it from her. And I wish that there was more done with the final plot twist that was revealed after they reconnected. Overall though this book had passion, suspense, drama and chemistry.
July 14, 2025
Faded Rhythm was an absolute joy to read. It’s a beautifully paced slow-burn romance with just the right touch of suspense woven throughout. Julian aka King truly embodied the role of a knight in shining armor for Sable. I loved how attentive he was to not just her, but her children as well. His character carried the weight of deep childhood trauma, abandonment, and a longing to be loved properly something he finally found when his path crossed with Sable's. Their connection felt real and earned, especially in contrast to her husband, who was nothing short of a certified dirtbag. This story pulled me in from the very start and kept me invested in their journey to healing and love.
July 15, 2025
Faded Rhythm
What happens when the man who your husband hired to kill you decides he’s going to be your protector instead? You fall in love with him while being in close proximity while he’s protecting you and helping you try to find out the true reason your husband wants you gone. This is exactly what happened between Julian and Sable. Their love developed off their close proximity and from him observing how good of a person she was during his recon. Their love is a bit taboo but I enjoyed their story nonetheless.
I’m not sure how Shae comes up with these crazy storylines but I’m here for it every time.
What happens when the man who your husband hired to kill you decides he’s going to be your protector instead? You fall in love with him while being in close proximity while he’s protecting you and helping you try to find out the true reason your husband wants you gone. This is exactly what happened between Julian and Sable. Their love developed off their close proximity and from him observing how good of a person she was during his recon. Their love is a bit taboo but I enjoyed their story nonetheless.
I’m not sure how Shae comes up with these crazy storylines but I’m here for it every time.
December 29, 2025
this was a cute read! i kinda wish they went to an underground type of place from the jump, but seeing sable and julian slowly get to know each other and catch feelings was nice! i really loved how soft and loving he was with her kids! i do wish there was more vulnerability tho! sable keeping her phone while also being in hiding was a lil confusing to me, i feel like she should’ve been fully off grid! and she was so worried about her husband telling her kids that she was dead, but honestly, her husband should’ve called and told everyone she was dead when he got that call! i’m happy julian and sable still got their happy ending! 🎀
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 27, 2025
When Love Calls❤️❤️❤️
The turn of events that brought this love story to a happy ever after wouldn't be believable if you didn't read this book for yourself. I can't believe some of the grimy stuff that people will do for the love of money & power, Not knowing that money is the root of all EVIL, it can't stop NOTHING God has in store for the people that deserves it. Love conquer ALL🔥🔥🔥GREAT READ 🔥🔥🔥
The turn of events that brought this love story to a happy ever after wouldn't be believable if you didn't read this book for yourself. I can't believe some of the grimy stuff that people will do for the love of money & power, Not knowing that money is the root of all EVIL, it can't stop NOTHING God has in store for the people that deserves it. Love conquer ALL🔥🔥🔥GREAT READ 🔥🔥🔥
September 24, 2025
This book gave the right amount of drama, suspense, with a nice lil dollop of spice to serve the soul. The back and forth between sable and "king" was engaging and I loved the character development we got to see in our heartless king Julian. I also loved how the ending tied everything together.
While I did find a few of the twists predictable, I still appreciated what they added to the story. Overall, fast paced, easy to read, def recommend. Hitman romances might be my new thing 😂
While I did find a few of the twists predictable, I still appreciated what they added to the story. Overall, fast paced, easy to read, def recommend. Hitman romances might be my new thing 😂
September 30, 2025
Suspense/Romance Loved it
This was my first read by Shae Sanders and it definitely won’t be my last. The suspense and romance blended in a way that kept me turning pages. There were so many twists and long-buried secrets uncovered but everything tied together by the end. The chemistry between Julian and Sable is undeniable from the start. I loved their willingness to have the hard conversations, even when it wasn’t easy. Overall I enjoyed Julian and Sable.
This was my first read by Shae Sanders and it definitely won’t be my last. The suspense and romance blended in a way that kept me turning pages. There were so many twists and long-buried secrets uncovered but everything tied together by the end. The chemistry between Julian and Sable is undeniable from the start. I loved their willingness to have the hard conversations, even when it wasn’t easy. Overall I enjoyed Julian and Sable.
November 7, 2025
this was my first read from this author but not my last
I loved this book. Started this morning and finished by afternoon. The plot and how the story was written was amazing. Every page you gradually was learning new things that added to the plot of the story. Loved the writing style. It wasn’t rushed. I’m so glad that husband got what he deserve him and his daddy. Definitely will be reading more by this author
I loved this book. Started this morning and finished by afternoon. The plot and how the story was written was amazing. Every page you gradually was learning new things that added to the plot of the story. Loved the writing style. It wasn’t rushed. I’m so glad that husband got what he deserve him and his daddy. Definitely will be reading more by this author
July 4, 2025
suspenseful romance!
Shae did it again! This was my first time reading a hitman romance and Shae did such a good job of providing a love story or two guarded and hurt individuals, while packing in great suspense. Loved the overall character development, especially from King. I read this is one sitting! Brava!
Shae did it again! This was my first time reading a hitman romance and Shae did such a good job of providing a love story or two guarded and hurt individuals, while packing in great suspense. Loved the overall character development, especially from King. I read this is one sitting! Brava!
July 6, 2025
It was okay
The storyline was def intriguing, but it was missing something. Also, the novel needs another round of editing. Brett was referred to as Brad once and quite a few other typos.
The storyline was def intriguing, but it was missing something. Also, the novel needs another round of editing. Brett was referred to as Brad once and quite a few other typos.
July 12, 2025
Shae delivers another winner
LOVED this story, the chemistry btwn Julian and Sable, the twists and turns and the final plot twist. Only wished for Brett to suffer more but ashes to ashes sucka! Loved seeing Julian realize his prayers had been answered 🥺🥰
LOVED this story, the chemistry btwn Julian and Sable, the twists and turns and the final plot twist. Only wished for Brett to suffer more but ashes to ashes sucka! Loved seeing Julian realize his prayers had been answered 🥺🥰
July 23, 2025
3/5⭐️
I really liked the story and the characters, but I felt like it was very easy to predict why Brett wanted to kill Sable. Also, for someone who’s husband is try to kill you, I think Sable made some dumb decisions.
I really liked the story and the characters, but I felt like it was very easy to predict why Brett wanted to kill Sable. Also, for someone who’s husband is try to kill you, I think Sable made some dumb decisions.
August 5, 2025
The premise of the book is so great! I enjoyed the journey but not my fave by Shae in the current era. However , still highly recommend this one! Also LOVED the mystery aspect so much!! I wished for more grit!
November 11, 2025
Really enjoyed this book. Thats what I love about this author - none of her books are the same, there is something for everything. If you are into assassin romance or never tried it and would like to , i recommend !
November 12, 2025
A Good Rhythm Made a Good Read 🌟💫
I enjoyed this book. It was full of twist and turns, but not overly so, with just the right amount of suspense. The characters were full and personable.
I say get the book and settle in for a good read.
I enjoyed this book. It was full of twist and turns, but not overly so, with just the right amount of suspense. The characters were full and personable.
I say get the book and settle in for a good read.
November 30, 2025
Family ties
Sable and King !! What a bumpy ride, but I held on til the end! Every time I thought I knew what was happening it turns out to be something else. Didn’t see it coming. I love this book. Awesome job
Sable and King !! What a bumpy ride, but I held on til the end! Every time I thought I knew what was happening it turns out to be something else. Didn’t see it coming. I love this book. Awesome job
January 14, 2026
3.6 STARS. The story had potential but it lacked details. Towards the end of the story when more information and background was exposed.. Nothing was done with that information so it seemed pointless. For example, Sable finding out who her real dad is. Something was just missing.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 26, 2026
The twist was twisted
The Texican should have been the father because the other way means her 1st love was her cousin. Either way I enjoyed the story. It was a good fairly quick read with a nice balance of action n love.
The Texican should have been the father because the other way means her 1st love was her cousin. Either way I enjoyed the story. It was a good fairly quick read with a nice balance of action n love.
July 12, 2025
amazing
Love the plot. Loved the suspense. Loved it all. Did not disappoint. Another Shae Sanders favorite. Will recommend Julian and Sable’s story.
Love the plot. Loved the suspense. Loved it all. Did not disappoint. Another Shae Sanders favorite. Will recommend Julian and Sable’s story.
July 22, 2025
J & S found their Rhythm
I hesitated starting this book for some reason and hate I did. Shae did an excellent job weaving the mystery into the romance.
I hesitated starting this book for some reason and hate I did. Shae did an excellent job weaving the mystery into the romance.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews