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Kill Shot: A Dark MM Romance
He was supposed to be a pawn. Not the person who’d unravel everything.
Forged by loss, molded by revenge, and sharpened by the brutal hands of the Black Cobra gang, Nico Gutierrez has been shaped into a deadly weapon. His only goal is to destroy the Altamirano family, whose patriarch wiped out his own.
The plan is simple.
Kidnap Sebastian Altamirano, use him as bait, and draw his father, Pablo, into the open.
But nothing about Sebastian is simple.
He’s spoiled, far too trusting and soft in all the ways Nico thought he’d forgotten how to feel. When he asks Nico to pretend to be his boyfriend to escape Pablo’s suffocating control, Nico agrees to it, seeing that as just another ploy in his scheme to get closer to the enemy.
What he doesn’t expect is to fall for Seb’s wild spirit and unwavering belief in something better. There’s a light in him that draws Nico’s darkness, making him say and do things he never thought he would. Around Sebastian, Nico isn’t just a weapon. He becomes a man dangerously close to wanting something more than blood and retribution.
As desire tangles with duty and secrets start to unravel, Nico finds himself at war with the only family he’s ever known, and with his own heart. When betrayal cuts deeper than any bullet, the question isn’t just who Nico is willing to fight.
It’s who he’s willing to lose.
Kill Shot is a dark MM romance. It contains explicit and potentially triggering content that is not suitable for readers under 18. Use the Read Sample feature to check the content warnings before reading.
Forged by loss, molded by revenge, and sharpened by the brutal hands of the Black Cobra gang, Nico Gutierrez has been shaped into a deadly weapon. His only goal is to destroy the Altamirano family, whose patriarch wiped out his own.
The plan is simple.
Kidnap Sebastian Altamirano, use him as bait, and draw his father, Pablo, into the open.
But nothing about Sebastian is simple.
He’s spoiled, far too trusting and soft in all the ways Nico thought he’d forgotten how to feel. When he asks Nico to pretend to be his boyfriend to escape Pablo’s suffocating control, Nico agrees to it, seeing that as just another ploy in his scheme to get closer to the enemy.
What he doesn’t expect is to fall for Seb’s wild spirit and unwavering belief in something better. There’s a light in him that draws Nico’s darkness, making him say and do things he never thought he would. Around Sebastian, Nico isn’t just a weapon. He becomes a man dangerously close to wanting something more than blood and retribution.
As desire tangles with duty and secrets start to unravel, Nico finds himself at war with the only family he’s ever known, and with his own heart. When betrayal cuts deeper than any bullet, the question isn’t just who Nico is willing to fight.
It’s who he’s willing to lose.
Kill Shot is a dark MM romance. It contains explicit and potentially triggering content that is not suitable for readers under 18. Use the Read Sample feature to check the content warnings before reading.
279 pages, Paperback
Published July 24, 2025
121 people are currently reading
157 people want to read
About the author
Raine Gerald
2 books11 followersRaine Gerald enjoys reading and writing emotionally raw MM romance. Expect slow burns, fast heartbeats, and characters who feel too much and kiss too hard. Follow Raine on Instagram: @authorrainegerald
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
dnf
July 21, 2025 DNF 56%
I was loving the premise of this — a revenge plot, pretend boyfriends, rival gangs — but either the writing or the characters aren’t really doing it for me.
I thought I was enjoying it, but then I noticed that I was just skimming a lot and that it all just seemed like a lot of words but nothing was really happening?
Or rather, there was a plot and things were happening, but it just didn’t feel impactful, I didn’t get the high-stakes angst I was expecting.
Even the first spice scene was supposedly very intimate and they were making love already, but I didn’t feel that. And if I’m not feeling their connection, I don’t think I’ll end up loving this if I keep in reading.
Lots of fish in the sea and books in my kindle, you know?
I was loving the premise of this — a revenge plot, pretend boyfriends, rival gangs — but either the writing or the characters aren’t really doing it for me.
I thought I was enjoying it, but then I noticed that I was just skimming a lot and that it all just seemed like a lot of words but nothing was really happening?
Or rather, there was a plot and things were happening, but it just didn’t feel impactful, I didn’t get the high-stakes angst I was expecting.
Even the first spice scene was supposedly very intimate and they were making love already, but I didn’t feel that. And if I’m not feeling their connection, I don’t think I’ll end up loving this if I keep in reading.
Lots of fish in the sea and books in my kindle, you know?
December 28, 2025
ARC review
A very good book for a debut novel.
Nico wanted revenge for his family and the way to do that was to hurt the person who killed the most. He got close to Seb for untrue reasons but he stayed because he fell in love.
Seb gave a innocent and naive vibe but he wasn't, not totally. He knew Nico was dangerous but the pull he felt was to strong to ignore.
They were a fantastic couple, I really liked them
A very good book for a debut novel.
Nico wanted revenge for his family and the way to do that was to hurt the person who killed the most. He got close to Seb for untrue reasons but he stayed because he fell in love.
Seb gave a innocent and naive vibe but he wasn't, not totally. He knew Nico was dangerous but the pull he felt was to strong to ignore.
They were a fantastic couple, I really liked them
July 28, 2025
Still feeling sick … review to come
July 8, 2025
great story with many twists and turns. kept me on the edge of my seat.
July 10, 2025
This was quite enjoyable as much as it had me looking forward to seeing how Nico's plot would blow up. It didn't disappoint! Poor Seb, his heatbreak was inevitable, but I loved their romance. It was rather sweet and satisfying to see Nico fight his feelings as he manipulated Seb to fall into his trap.
I also found myself loving Pablo. I initially thought I'd hate him but that was a twist I didn't expect.
Overall an enjoyable and well written piece, though I wish we got more of Nico and Seb after they reconciled.
I received an ARC of this book and leaving my review voluntarily.
I also found myself loving Pablo. I initially thought I'd hate him but that was a twist I didn't expect.
Overall an enjoyable and well written piece, though I wish we got more of Nico and Seb after they reconciled.
I received an ARC of this book and leaving my review voluntarily.
September 3, 2025
Було дуже багатообіцяюче в анотації, але досить погано в виконанні. Дочитала тільки тому, що надіялась, може от зараз ближче до кінця станеться щось, що пояснить мені високий рейтинг.
August 24, 2025
nico was such an honest man. i didn’t really care for the twist but was interesting to see who was lying and who was telling the truth. you really can’t trust anyone these days SMH.
seb was so sweet and naive, he should’ve just listened to his father from jump! he would’ve ran into nico anyway
seb was so sweet and naive, he should’ve just listened to his father from jump! he would’ve ran into nico anyway
July 24, 2025
Nico is a gang member that wanted revenge against sebastian’s dad a rival gang leader and so he made plans to kidnap and kill sebastian since he’s the son of pablo the one nico wants revenge against and nico honestly didn’t want the gang life but he was forced into it through blackmail from his boss and the boss spewed lies about sebastian’s dad so nico killed him as he should since seb got kidnapped.
sebastian is a sweet innocent naive thing he lowkey pissed me off at first but he got better but he was so sweet and wanted to understand how life was for others that were less fortunate than him he changed so much after his kidnapping which was so sad because he just wanted to see the good in people but i’m glad he realized that people aren’t always as they seem *cough* nico.
I was selected for an arc copy from the author and i rated this book 4/5 stars some of it was really annoying to me just how sebastian acted at first but i really enjoyed it overall especially the tension and the yearning nico had for sebastian.
Favorite quotes:
“I’m so sorry for dragging you into my mess,” Nico finished, his voice lowered to a fierce whisper. “I thought that I could leave you alone to live your life and forget all about me, but I’m a selfish man, cariño. I couldn’t bear being apart from you.”
“I love you so much. I just don’t know how long it will take me to be normal. And I’m not sure if any of it… if us… meant anything to you.”
“Oh, Sebby. It meant the world to me—us. I love you. So, so much. No matter how long it takes, I’ll be there for you, you hear me? Whatever you need, mi amor, I’ll give it to you. As long as you’ll have me, I’ll be by your side forever, and whether you need me to protect you or just listen, I’ll be there.”
sebastian is a sweet innocent naive thing he lowkey pissed me off at first but he got better but he was so sweet and wanted to understand how life was for others that were less fortunate than him he changed so much after his kidnapping which was so sad because he just wanted to see the good in people but i’m glad he realized that people aren’t always as they seem *cough* nico.
I was selected for an arc copy from the author and i rated this book 4/5 stars some of it was really annoying to me just how sebastian acted at first but i really enjoyed it overall especially the tension and the yearning nico had for sebastian.
Favorite quotes:
“I’m so sorry for dragging you into my mess,” Nico finished, his voice lowered to a fierce whisper. “I thought that I could leave you alone to live your life and forget all about me, but I’m a selfish man, cariño. I couldn’t bear being apart from you.”
“I love you so much. I just don’t know how long it will take me to be normal. And I’m not sure if any of it… if us… meant anything to you.”
“Oh, Sebby. It meant the world to me—us. I love you. So, so much. No matter how long it takes, I’ll be there for you, you hear me? Whatever you need, mi amor, I’ll give it to you. As long as you’ll have me, I’ll be by your side forever, and whether you need me to protect you or just listen, I’ll be there.”
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 13, 2025
Review for Kill Shot: A Dark MM Romance by Raine Gerald
Nico Guttierrez has been trained into a killing weapon by the Black Cobra gang. Knowing this, anyone who has a head on their shoulders would send anyone running for the hills. Full of pain, loss, and revenge, he needs to go on. And that means he needs to destroy the Altamirano family, who took out Nico's whole family, so that means the person who killed them needs to be taken out. So, he concocted a plan to take the son of Pablo Sebastian Altamirano. He will use Sebastian to set this plan up. Nico learns as time goes on that Sebastian isn't like anyone he has known; he isn't easy or set to take orders. Being the son of Pablo, he has been spoiled, given everything he has wanted. If that isn't bad enough, he is very trusting and gentle in ways that Nico didn't realize a person could be. Nico starts to see this man melting his walls, making him feel things he hasn't allowed himself to feel for a while. On top of that, Sebastian asks Nico, like it's nothing, to be his fake boyfriend to get away from his father. Getting to know Sebastian more makes Nico want more; he wants to keep Sebastian safe. Will he be able to keep Sebastian safe from his father, Pablo? He will do anything for this man who has come to mean more to him each and every day. Will Nico get what he wants or lose everything?
I enjoyed this book. I have become a big dark romance reader, and this book is all that I want in a book. I haven't read anything from Raine Gerald. I just know I will need to read more books when I can.
Nicole Harvey
Nico Guttierrez has been trained into a killing weapon by the Black Cobra gang. Knowing this, anyone who has a head on their shoulders would send anyone running for the hills. Full of pain, loss, and revenge, he needs to go on. And that means he needs to destroy the Altamirano family, who took out Nico's whole family, so that means the person who killed them needs to be taken out. So, he concocted a plan to take the son of Pablo Sebastian Altamirano. He will use Sebastian to set this plan up. Nico learns as time goes on that Sebastian isn't like anyone he has known; he isn't easy or set to take orders. Being the son of Pablo, he has been spoiled, given everything he has wanted. If that isn't bad enough, he is very trusting and gentle in ways that Nico didn't realize a person could be. Nico starts to see this man melting his walls, making him feel things he hasn't allowed himself to feel for a while. On top of that, Sebastian asks Nico, like it's nothing, to be his fake boyfriend to get away from his father. Getting to know Sebastian more makes Nico want more; he wants to keep Sebastian safe. Will he be able to keep Sebastian safe from his father, Pablo? He will do anything for this man who has come to mean more to him each and every day. Will Nico get what he wants or lose everything?
I enjoyed this book. I have become a big dark romance reader, and this book is all that I want in a book. I haven't read anything from Raine Gerald. I just know I will need to read more books when I can.
Nicole Harvey
August 3, 2025
Kill Shot by Raine Gerald absolutely delivered on everything I love in a dark MM romance; revenge, angst, danger, and a forbidden love that’s impossible to walk away from.
Nico was raised in violence, forged by pain, and driven by revenge. His mission is clear: take down the man responsible for his family’s death. And the best way to do that? Get close to the enemy’s son. But what started as a calculated move turns into something messy and all too real when Sebastian; sweet, stubborn, and far more clever than Nico expected, starts breaking down his carefully built walls.
Seb gives off innocent rich kid vibes, but there’s more to him under the surface. He sees right through Nico’s danger and still leans in, even as everything starts to unravel. The chemistry between them simmers from the start, but it’s the emotional undercurrent, the slow-burn pull, the heartbreak, the inevitable fallout that really hit hard.
This book had me hooked. It’s packed with tension, unexpected twists, and one very manipulative fake boyfriend setup that turns into so much more. I also ended up loving Pablo way more than I thought I would—he’s definitely not your typical villain.
If you're into:
- MM dark romance
- Assassin x heir dynamics
- Revenge plots that get complicated
- Fake dating (but make it deadly)
- Twists, tension, and emotional payoff
Then Kill Shot is absolutely worth the read.
Nico was raised in violence, forged by pain, and driven by revenge. His mission is clear: take down the man responsible for his family’s death. And the best way to do that? Get close to the enemy’s son. But what started as a calculated move turns into something messy and all too real when Sebastian; sweet, stubborn, and far more clever than Nico expected, starts breaking down his carefully built walls.
Seb gives off innocent rich kid vibes, but there’s more to him under the surface. He sees right through Nico’s danger and still leans in, even as everything starts to unravel. The chemistry between them simmers from the start, but it’s the emotional undercurrent, the slow-burn pull, the heartbreak, the inevitable fallout that really hit hard.
This book had me hooked. It’s packed with tension, unexpected twists, and one very manipulative fake boyfriend setup that turns into so much more. I also ended up loving Pablo way more than I thought I would—he’s definitely not your typical villain.
If you're into:
- MM dark romance
- Assassin x heir dynamics
- Revenge plots that get complicated
- Fake dating (but make it deadly)
- Twists, tension, and emotional payoff
Then Kill Shot is absolutely worth the read.
July 16, 2025
Kill Shot by Raine Gerald was such a good book—an intense, emotional ride that kept me glued to the pages from start to finish.
The story follows Nico, who has been shaped by tragedy and vengeance into a lethal weapon with one mission: kidnap Sebastian Altamirano and use him to destroy his father. What starts as a cold, calculated plan quickly unravels as Nico is drawn into Sebastian’s light and vulnerability. Watching Nico’s emotional confusion and the slow burn of forbidden attraction was absolutely addicting.
I loved how the author balanced dark themes—revenge, betrayal, violence—with the fragile hope and tenderness growing between Nico and Seb. There’s so much angst as Nico fights feelings he doesn’t want to admit, all while the danger around them keeps building. Sebastian is the perfect counter to Nico’s darkness—spoiled and soft, yes, but also brave and unshakably kind.
If you enjoy dark MM romance with high stakes, complicated loyalties, and characters who make your heart ache, Kill Shot is a must-read. Raine Gerald delivers a story that is raw, beautifully written, and impossible to forget. Highly recommend!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The story follows Nico, who has been shaped by tragedy and vengeance into a lethal weapon with one mission: kidnap Sebastian Altamirano and use him to destroy his father. What starts as a cold, calculated plan quickly unravels as Nico is drawn into Sebastian’s light and vulnerability. Watching Nico’s emotional confusion and the slow burn of forbidden attraction was absolutely addicting.
I loved how the author balanced dark themes—revenge, betrayal, violence—with the fragile hope and tenderness growing between Nico and Seb. There’s so much angst as Nico fights feelings he doesn’t want to admit, all while the danger around them keeps building. Sebastian is the perfect counter to Nico’s darkness—spoiled and soft, yes, but also brave and unshakably kind.
If you enjoy dark MM romance with high stakes, complicated loyalties, and characters who make your heart ache, Kill Shot is a must-read. Raine Gerald delivers a story that is raw, beautifully written, and impossible to forget. Highly recommend!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 24, 2025
Nico Guttierrez’s story grips you like a vice—merciless, complex, and laced with raw emotion. From the brutal upbringing under the Black Cobra gang to the burning need for revenge against the Altamirano family, this tale wastes no time plunging into its high-stakes heart. Nico isn’t just a killer—he’s a man shaped by tragedy, a weapon with a pulse. What begins as a cold and calculated plot to use Sebastian as bait for vengeance slowly unravels into something deeply human. Sebastian—naive, gentle, and radiating a kind of stubborn sweetness—is a stark contrast to Nico’s hardened edge. Their dynamic flips expectations: instead of the predator dominating the prey, we watch Nico lose himself in the quiet gravity of Sebastian’s kindness. The story transforms from a revenge thriller into a slow-burning exploration of healing and unexpected love. Fake boyfriend trope? Yes. But the emotional payoff is real. Nico’s gradual yearning to protect Sebastian—not for strategy, but for love—is heart-tugging, even as danger looms over every choice.
Kill Shot doesn’t shy away from emotional turmoil or moral ambiguity. It takes the reader through gritty fight scenes and tense confrontations—but also vulnerable moments that slice deeper than any blade.
Kill Shot doesn’t shy away from emotional turmoil or moral ambiguity. It takes the reader through gritty fight scenes and tense confrontations—but also vulnerable moments that slice deeper than any blade.
July 23, 2025
Kill Shot is Raine Gerald’s debut novel and I really enjoyed it. I was hooked from the begging and was really invested. I love a good revenge plot and this book was intense and kept me on the edge of my seat, I was really anxious to see how everything would play out in the end and this book did not disappoint.
Nico is a polarizing character. He has one mission and that mission is revenge. Nico believes that Sebastian’s father has killed his whole family so his revenge is to kidnap him but instead his plan took a surprising turn and he couldn’t help but be drawn to Sebastian.
Nico and Sebastian are polar opposites but I loved their dynamic. Nico is closed off and cold and Sebastian is sweet and innocent but what makes their relationship work is how Sebastian is the light to Nico’s darkness. I loved how even though Sebastian was sheltered, he was brave and stubborn. All he wants is to be free and independent.
Overall this was an amazing debut novel by Raine Gerald. This was a perfect, high stakes, entertaining, and steamy chemistry dark romance that I really enjoyed reading. Thank you to the author for an ARC to read and review.
Nico is a polarizing character. He has one mission and that mission is revenge. Nico believes that Sebastian’s father has killed his whole family so his revenge is to kidnap him but instead his plan took a surprising turn and he couldn’t help but be drawn to Sebastian.
Nico and Sebastian are polar opposites but I loved their dynamic. Nico is closed off and cold and Sebastian is sweet and innocent but what makes their relationship work is how Sebastian is the light to Nico’s darkness. I loved how even though Sebastian was sheltered, he was brave and stubborn. All he wants is to be free and independent.
Overall this was an amazing debut novel by Raine Gerald. This was a perfect, high stakes, entertaining, and steamy chemistry dark romance that I really enjoyed reading. Thank you to the author for an ARC to read and review.
November 12, 2025
3.5⭐️
I hate to round down because I feel that most of my negative feelings on this are based on my personal preference, but maybe 3 stars would be more accurate. First of all, I don’t like the narration here. As the chapters are named by main character, I’d prefer that character be speaking directly. Third person or whatever it is, it’s just not my jam in MM books where both main characters are men. “He” gets confusing. Second, authors take far too much liberty in adding “dark romance” to their books. Sebastian and Nico’s romance was anything but dark, so I was disappointed there. Now, the plot was decent. I enjoyed the story for the most part, and I didn’t mind the twist that some people seemed upset about. The characters were fairly likable, although I didn’t feel like I got to know them as well as I would have liked. There were some parts that seemed to skip by way too quickly, and details I would have wanted to know. I didn’t feel like I was in love with either main character, or the story, which was a bit of a let down. Again, could be mostly due to my reading preferences.
I hate to round down because I feel that most of my negative feelings on this are based on my personal preference, but maybe 3 stars would be more accurate. First of all, I don’t like the narration here. As the chapters are named by main character, I’d prefer that character be speaking directly. Third person or whatever it is, it’s just not my jam in MM books where both main characters are men. “He” gets confusing. Second, authors take far too much liberty in adding “dark romance” to their books. Sebastian and Nico’s romance was anything but dark, so I was disappointed there. Now, the plot was decent. I enjoyed the story for the most part, and I didn’t mind the twist that some people seemed upset about. The characters were fairly likable, although I didn’t feel like I got to know them as well as I would have liked. There were some parts that seemed to skip by way too quickly, and details I would have wanted to know. I didn’t feel like I was in love with either main character, or the story, which was a bit of a let down. Again, could be mostly due to my reading preferences.
July 15, 2025
Kill Shot – Raine Gerald
Rounded up to 4 Stars because I think it was me more than the book.
I liked the Story and The Characters were engaging. There was some action and suspense. The writing was good and so was the editing. But there was something missing…. I’m not sure what.
Maybe it was the expected Darkness. I would not really call this dark. The romance wasn’t dark in any way. It started out with bad intentions and lies but nothing dark or nasty between them. It was quite sweet the way Nico bent his rules for Seb and his protectiveness was swoony. The story was a bit violent as expected in any Mafia/Gang book but again not anything too dark. There are a few triggers for some people so check the warnings.
The book was still good, and I did enjoy reading it. I would recommend it for anyone that likes Mafia/Gang/Crime family books that don’t care for the unusual Dark aspects of these types of books.
Tropes: Crime Family/ Gang, Badboy/Cinnamon Roll, Opposites Attract, Fake Dating, Age Gap, Touch Him and Die, Protective
Rounded up to 4 Stars because I think it was me more than the book.
I liked the Story and The Characters were engaging. There was some action and suspense. The writing was good and so was the editing. But there was something missing…. I’m not sure what.
Maybe it was the expected Darkness. I would not really call this dark. The romance wasn’t dark in any way. It started out with bad intentions and lies but nothing dark or nasty between them. It was quite sweet the way Nico bent his rules for Seb and his protectiveness was swoony. The story was a bit violent as expected in any Mafia/Gang book but again not anything too dark. There are a few triggers for some people so check the warnings.
The book was still good, and I did enjoy reading it. I would recommend it for anyone that likes Mafia/Gang/Crime family books that don’t care for the unusual Dark aspects of these types of books.
Tropes: Crime Family/ Gang, Badboy/Cinnamon Roll, Opposites Attract, Fake Dating, Age Gap, Touch Him and Die, Protective
September 22, 2025
'Nico made a vow. He’d show that boy pleasures he’d never imagined before. And then he’d surpass them, over and over again, until Seb couldn’t even conceive of finding pleasure with anyone but Nico.
But as always, this was followed by cold reality. After he broke Seb in all the most beautiful ways, he would need to carry out his mission. And then Seb would be truly broken, and nothing would ever put him together again.'
I loved this book. The story was fast-paced with suspense, danger, and action, and I was completely hooked. Great world building and wonderful characters. I loved both Seb and Nico. Nico may have wanted revenge against Sebastian's father, but the son was nothing like he expected. The chemistry between them was scorching and Seb completely slipped underneath Nico's walls. I loved the dynamic between them and the way their relationship developed. An exciting story and I couldn't put it down.
This is the first book I've read by this author and I would read more. 5 stars
But as always, this was followed by cold reality. After he broke Seb in all the most beautiful ways, he would need to carry out his mission. And then Seb would be truly broken, and nothing would ever put him together again.'
I loved this book. The story was fast-paced with suspense, danger, and action, and I was completely hooked. Great world building and wonderful characters. I loved both Seb and Nico. Nico may have wanted revenge against Sebastian's father, but the son was nothing like he expected. The chemistry between them was scorching and Seb completely slipped underneath Nico's walls. I loved the dynamic between them and the way their relationship developed. An exciting story and I couldn't put it down.
This is the first book I've read by this author and I would read more. 5 stars
December 26, 2025
Raine Gerald’s Kill Shot is one of those stories where I feel it was labelled incorrectly, which meant I went in expecting a different type of read. While it did keep me hooked, the fact that it was labelled a “dark” story meant that I was let down by how many of the elements I expect from dark reads were glossed over. Thus, I found myself disappointed in a way I would not have been if I had not gone into the book with such an expectation.
Although Kill Shot was not the book I had anticipated, it was an addictive read that I easily powered through. There were many elements of the story I would have liked to see more of, but this was not enough to take away from my willingness to keep turning the pages. There was a lot of potential, lots of things I would have liked to explore more, and this ensured I kept turning the pages. If these elements had been explored to the extent I had hoped, allowing the book to reach that promised dark label, I am sure I would have enjoyed it more.
Overall, while not quite what I had wanted, it was an addictive read that kept me turning the pages.
Although Kill Shot was not the book I had anticipated, it was an addictive read that I easily powered through. There were many elements of the story I would have liked to see more of, but this was not enough to take away from my willingness to keep turning the pages. There was a lot of potential, lots of things I would have liked to explore more, and this ensured I kept turning the pages. If these elements had been explored to the extent I had hoped, allowing the book to reach that promised dark label, I am sure I would have enjoyed it more.
Overall, while not quite what I had wanted, it was an addictive read that kept me turning the pages.
July 10, 2025
This is described as a dark romance, but the romance itself isn't 'dark', it's the situation they're in that's dark.
Nico's gang is out to get revenge on Pablo's gang - it's personal to Nico because Pablo's group killed his family. His plan is to kidnap/kill Pablo's son, Seb. Instead of killing him, he seduces him - unfortunately for Nico's plans, he ends up falling for Seb. Eventually Nico learns that he doesn't know the truth about what really happened the night his family was murdered. At this point, Nico's gang kidnaps Seb (without Nico's permission) and then it's a race to get Seb back.
I thought the first part of the book moved a little slowly, but the second half really picked up when the action started.
Seb is tortured when he is kidnapped. No torture happens on the page - it's just referenced. In fact, no details are even given. There are a number of gang members who are shot/blown up during the rescue, however.
Nico's gang is out to get revenge on Pablo's gang - it's personal to Nico because Pablo's group killed his family. His plan is to kidnap/kill Pablo's son, Seb. Instead of killing him, he seduces him - unfortunately for Nico's plans, he ends up falling for Seb. Eventually Nico learns that he doesn't know the truth about what really happened the night his family was murdered. At this point, Nico's gang kidnaps Seb (without Nico's permission) and then it's a race to get Seb back.
I thought the first part of the book moved a little slowly, but the second half really picked up when the action started.
Seb is tortured when he is kidnapped. No torture happens on the page - it's just referenced. In fact, no details are even given. There are a number of gang members who are shot/blown up during the rescue, however.
July 25, 2025
A Joyfully Jay review.
3.25 stars
Nico was young when he lost his entire family. He was then taken in by the Black Cobra gang and his life has been about waiting for his revenge. Nico has trained his entire life to take down the Altamirano family, especially the patriarch, Pablo, who Nico knows is responsible for massacring Nico’s family. Nico’s plan is to kidnap Pablo’s son, Sebastian, which would then draw out Pablo. Nico has been keeping surveillance on Sebastian, but nothing prepares him for coming face to face with him.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
3.25 stars
Nico was young when he lost his entire family. He was then taken in by the Black Cobra gang and his life has been about waiting for his revenge. Nico has trained his entire life to take down the Altamirano family, especially the patriarch, Pablo, who Nico knows is responsible for massacring Nico’s family. Nico’s plan is to kidnap Pablo’s son, Sebastian, which would then draw out Pablo. Nico has been keeping surveillance on Sebastian, but nothing prepares him for coming face to face with him.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
July 28, 2025
story of Nico and Sebastian
This is an enemies to more dark romance, featuring Nico and Sebastian, and is a standalone book.
Nico plans to kidnap Sebastian to get revenge on his family, but things change when he starts to fall for him. Now, he has to choose between love and the revenge he’s been chasing his whole life.
This story was a little dark, but Nico and Sebastian’s chemistry was undeniable and this story has it all - fake dating, danger, mafia vibes and unexpected feelings.
Things to expect in this book are:
Standalone book
MM dark romance
Enemies to more
Small age gap (32/21)
Revenge plan
Morally grey MC
Fake dating
Sunshine x Protector
Spicy times & dirty talk
Phone s*x
Kidnapping
Rescue
Secrets revealed
Admit feelings
HEA
This is an enemies to more dark romance, featuring Nico and Sebastian, and is a standalone book.
Nico plans to kidnap Sebastian to get revenge on his family, but things change when he starts to fall for him. Now, he has to choose between love and the revenge he’s been chasing his whole life.
This story was a little dark, but Nico and Sebastian’s chemistry was undeniable and this story has it all - fake dating, danger, mafia vibes and unexpected feelings.
Things to expect in this book are:
Standalone book
MM dark romance
Enemies to more
Small age gap (32/21)
Revenge plan
Morally grey MC
Fake dating
Sunshine x Protector
Spicy times & dirty talk
Phone s*x
Kidnapping
Rescue
Secrets revealed
Admit feelings
HEA
August 3, 2025
This was a steep, dark romance that drags you deep into the shadows—and I couldn’t look away. A new-to-me author, and already a hit in my book!
Nico was trained to be a hunter, an assassin. When he discovers the man responsible for his parents' deaths, he plans to make him suffer before delivering the final blow. But when he meets Sebastian, everything shifts.
Is Sebastian truly guilty—or is he just another pawn in a twisted game?
It’s refreshing to see Nico struggle with that doubt, especially as Sebastian desperately seeks escape from his own cruel father.
This story takes us down a brutal path paved with betrayal, revenge, and an unexpected love that bends the darkness around it. Gritty, emotional, and impossible to put down.
Nico was trained to be a hunter, an assassin. When he discovers the man responsible for his parents' deaths, he plans to make him suffer before delivering the final blow. But when he meets Sebastian, everything shifts.
Is Sebastian truly guilty—or is he just another pawn in a twisted game?
It’s refreshing to see Nico struggle with that doubt, especially as Sebastian desperately seeks escape from his own cruel father.
This story takes us down a brutal path paved with betrayal, revenge, and an unexpected love that bends the darkness around it. Gritty, emotional, and impossible to put down.
July 28, 2025
Nico wants revenge against Seb's family and he decides the best way to do that is by using Seb as his pawn. He didn't know Seb and didn't consider what getting to know Seb in order to get close enough to carry out his plan might change him. This was a dark romance, Seb starts out as Nico's target and Nico winds out caught in his own tangled web. The dilemma for Nico turns out to be what is more important to him - the revenge he was seeking or the man he has come to love and want in his life? I have to admit, I wondered if love would win out. I am glad that it did.
I received an ARC from GRR and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received an ARC from GRR and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 15, 2025
Nico, the older guy from the bad part of town, saves the innocent Sebastian from his rebellious act against his father but has been secretly waiting for a chance to get revenge for his family. While Sebastian, is way too innocent and naive, tries to break free from his overprotective father. For the most part, it was a pretty typical story and it was ok. Sebastian though was a bit too innocent and cried too much for my taste.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 24, 2025
Wanting revenge for what he perceived occurred to his family, Nico has his own plan to bring his opponent Pablo down. When he comes into contact with Pablos son, Sebastian, he is taken aback by the innocence of him and his plans change.
But, revenge is still on his mind and Sebastian becomes a pawn in the middle when is was his freedom he’d only craved.
A promising debut book from the author. The story has its high moments and slow moments too. The characters needed a bit more development and the plot some editing for this to be a good read.
An okay read overall for me.
But, revenge is still on his mind and Sebastian becomes a pawn in the middle when is was his freedom he’d only craved.
A promising debut book from the author. The story has its high moments and slow moments too. The characters needed a bit more development and the plot some editing for this to be a good read.
An okay read overall for me.
July 31, 2025
Raine Gerard's "Kill Shot" is a good and interesting read. Gerard did a good job of crafting characters that feel real and deeply flawed, making their struggles and triumphs all the more impactful. The narrative is good with enough tension and emotional moments. If you're looking for a book that combines a compelling plot with raw, authentic emotion, "Kill Shot" is one to pick up. It's a testament to Gerard's skill as a storyteller, leaving you thinking about the characters long after you've finished reading.
August 3, 2025
The transformation of Nico in this book drew me in and kept me reading long past bedtime. Seeing the effect of innocence and trust on the darkness in his soul was amazing but also kept me on edge because you knew something would have to break and some point and I could not wait to see how the author would handle that. These characters live in a world where people play for keeps and it was clear Nico and Sebastian would not be allowed to just walk off into the sunset easily. This book was grim, hopeful, unsettling and a great read.
July 8, 2025
I received an ARC of this book from GRR and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This was a pretty low angst read, but it was good and enjoyable as a one time read. Nico was so soft with Seb. They were really cute together. I was left wanting more by the end.
I really liked Seb and his dad’s relationship. Pablo clearly loved his son so much. I hope we get Pablo’s book too, I’d love to read it.
This was a pretty low angst read, but it was good and enjoyable as a one time read. Nico was so soft with Seb. They were really cute together. I was left wanting more by the end.
I really liked Seb and his dad’s relationship. Pablo clearly loved his son so much. I hope we get Pablo’s book too, I’d love to read it.
July 10, 2025
Nico and Seb's romance was actually quite touching. I liked that Nico lost his edge when he was around Seb. It caught him off guard but that did not stop him from opening up. Nico would do anything for Seb. Interestingly Seb's father Pablo was a curious character for me. I found myself looking forward to reading about him and I wonder if he will get a story. Hint! I was also pleased that although there is mafia and violence this was not a really dark romance.
July 21, 2025
This is the first book I’ve read by this author and I think it may be their debut novel and it was a good read, it’s stated that it is a dark mm so check out the trigger warnings but I didn’t think it was overly dark to me, I liked the characters and the push and pull of the light of what Sebastian and Nico could have and the darkness of the revenge Nico seeks. The story is well written and I will look forward to more from this author in the future.
July 25, 2025
I loved it and I loved it some more!!! Not enough stars. What a great edge of your seat read. Nico couldn't help falling for Seb when his whole life has been about revenge. The characters have great depth and their story is one that got me from the start. There are some graphic bits but nothing more than you would expect to find. I loved it!!! I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
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