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The Vigilante
Righting the world’s wrongs was my sole focus, until my childhood friend gave me a new one.
When I decided to become a child therapist, I never imagined it would lead me down the dark and dangerous path I’m on, but after listening to one case after another of children enduring terrible conditions, and worse, I knew I had to do more than comfort those poor souls. I had to stop it.
And that’s exactly what I do. I hunt down abusers, predators, and scum, and I make sure they pay. The first time I took things too far, I should have been appalled, but instead, it reignited my passion for ridding the world of these losers.
It was going great too, until I got a little sloppy. The only reasonable response is to let things cool down and disappear for a while. I didn’t know running into my former best friend would be exactly what I needed.
He’s not at all like the guy I used to know, and there are things about himself he never told me. Now, I’m discovering a new side of Nantes, and in the process, discovering myself. When exploration turns to something more, I have a huge decision to make—continue my mission, or try for an honest life and a chance at love.
Is there a way I can have both?
The Vigilante is Book 2 in the In Love With A Criminal series. In it, you can expect darker themes, a man hell-bent on protecting the vulnerable, some violence, a very unexpected awakening, childhood friends rekindling their friendship (and more!), a lively family with secrets of their own, a touch of forced proximity, steamy nights, and love, sweet love.
When I decided to become a child therapist, I never imagined it would lead me down the dark and dangerous path I’m on, but after listening to one case after another of children enduring terrible conditions, and worse, I knew I had to do more than comfort those poor souls. I had to stop it.
And that’s exactly what I do. I hunt down abusers, predators, and scum, and I make sure they pay. The first time I took things too far, I should have been appalled, but instead, it reignited my passion for ridding the world of these losers.
It was going great too, until I got a little sloppy. The only reasonable response is to let things cool down and disappear for a while. I didn’t know running into my former best friend would be exactly what I needed.
He’s not at all like the guy I used to know, and there are things about himself he never told me. Now, I’m discovering a new side of Nantes, and in the process, discovering myself. When exploration turns to something more, I have a huge decision to make—continue my mission, or try for an honest life and a chance at love.
Is there a way I can have both?
The Vigilante is Book 2 in the In Love With A Criminal series. In it, you can expect darker themes, a man hell-bent on protecting the vulnerable, some violence, a very unexpected awakening, childhood friends rekindling their friendship (and more!), a lively family with secrets of their own, a touch of forced proximity, steamy nights, and love, sweet love.
240 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 14, 2026
26 people are currently reading
51 people want to read
About the author
Mia Monroe
24 books21 followersMia Monroe writes steamy, spellbound love stories for readers who crave fated mates, forbidden magic, and the kind of passion that leaves scorch marks on the page.
From telepathic lovers and cursed warlocks to witches with dangerous secrets, her books are dripping with slow-burn seduction, primal chemistry, and supernatural obsession. If you're into soul-deep bonds, morally gray heroes, and heroines who don’t back down—you’re in the right place.
✨ Author of Whispers in the Dark, The Healer, The Wicked Bond, Soul Bound, and more.
✨ Certified witchy romantic with a love for dark magic, full moons, and book boyfriends who ruin your standards.
✨ When she’s not writing steamy scenes or plotting twists, you’ll find her sipping coffee, conjuring her next fantasy world, or getting lost in her own stack of spicy reads.
Let’s fall into the dark together.
📚 miamonroe-romance.com
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January 10, 2026💜⚖️🔪The Vigilante ARC Review🔪⚖️💜
⭐⭐⭐⭐✨
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Available Jan 14, 2026
When the justice system fails to protect adolescent survivors, one man decides to be those predators karmic nightmare. The one factor he didn't account for in his meticulous planning was the childhood best friend he lost contact with years ago.
Book 2 in the In Love With a Criminal series
🫵🏼 The Vigilante is for readers who:
• appreciate meaningful LGBTQ+ rep in books
• appreciate sex positive, inclusive stories
• enjoy dark romance
• appreciate an antihero love interest
• enjoy reading about vigilante justice
• delight in morally grey and/or morally ambiguous characters
• romance stories that question right vs wrong rather than offering clear cut answers
• enjoy stories that challenge romanticized notions of justice
• appreciate psychological tension over conventional redemption arcs
📙 The Vigilante is a dark M/M romance that leans heavily into moral ambiguity, obsession, and power dynamics, exploring what happens when justice fails and one man becomes a vigilante. Mia Monroe frames frames the story as both a romance and a psychological examination, where desire and danger are inseparable and love grows in the shadow of violence. It's intense, unapologetically dark, emotionally charged, and topped off with spice.
✨ I didn't read book 1 prior (but will be rectifying that ASAP, possibly as soon as I finish this review 😂). I feel this can be read as a standalone, but would be an enhanced or elevated experience if you read the books in order. What I saw of Nonna, Deo, and Balt in this book is part of why I want to read The Protector ASAP - those Easter eggs/check ins have me incredibly curious.
“Amos, dammit, don’t you care? You’ve got grandkids, same as me.”
“Well, now I heard it was all in the church. He don’t go to my church.”
That last sentence - too many people just don't care about people doing bad things to others because it hasn't yet directly impacted them and/or their loved ones. They can turn a blind eye to it as long as it doesn't, because that's easier, safer.
⚖️ Does stopping evil by doing "evil" things make you a monster? Rather than telling readers how to feel about this, Monroe allows the tension to remain unresolved. This aptly mirrors real world discomfort with vigilante morality.
"...Like they didn’t ruin those poor kids they abused.”
I don't love that line, although I admit it's commonly said in real life. Kids (and adults) that are survivors of that sort of stuff aren't ruined—even if we feel like we are, at least at times. I say this as a childhood survival of SA and CSAM.
✍🏼 Monroe's prose is clear, direct, accessible, and often emotionally charged. Focusing more on internal conflict than action really puts readers in the characters heads. The dialogue reads smoothly and naturally.
⏳The pacing feels like it intentionally mirrors obsession—until release feels inevitable rather than relieving. At only 238 pages (ebook), it makes for a quick read that I didn't want to put down.
👥 "...The cool thing about Pride is it brings so many different kinds of people out and together, you know? It’s how the world should always be.”
We get meaningful LGBTQ+ rep that's well done. It doesn't feel token, nor does it objectify.
The characters accept one another for who they are and where they currently are in life with no qualms.
I loved the emotional maturity shown in the book and the way Monroe delved into the MCs psyches. It enhanced their depth and dimensionality.
Monroe seems to have a knack for writing characters that feel like people we all know (or at least know of, even if tangentially) in real life.
Initially I had slight difficulties keeping the MCs straight, but I was also sick and taking cold meds (on top of a wonky brain 😂). I think not having read book 1 played a bit of a role, too. I just couldn't remember which one was Vinian and which was Nantes for some reason.
💙 The romance is truly in the forefront here. I love and appreciate that we do not get any of the 'I can make him straight/gay for me' BS. Childhood best friends who ended up losing contact after high school and are now reconnecting, things to a coincidental meeting (or kismet, either way).
"Straight people do butt stuff too."
🌶️ I adore how sex positive this book is. Two guys, platonic friends, go into an adult toy store and browse. No judgement, no teasing, no awkwardness. The store associate is super helpful and knowledgeable - highlighting the sex positivity theme. They have open, honest discussions of all things including this and I love that.
The spice serves the characters/story and feels earned. There's ample build up so the tension is high.
📚 If you liked: God of Fury (Rina Kent), The Mercenary and the Mortician (Alexandra St. Pierre), Unhinged (Onley James), One For Sorrow (Louise Collins), His Quiet Agent (Ada Maria Soto), or The Witness (A.N. Boyden), then I think you'd enjoy The Vigilante.
⚠️ Please check author's site for info on CW/TW.
Thank you @miapensromance and @literallyyourspr for the opportunity to read this eARC. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and freely given.
---
frtc - need to process and figure out my rating. 4+ stars
⭐⭐⭐⭐✨
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Available Jan 14, 2026
When the justice system fails to protect adolescent survivors, one man decides to be those predators karmic nightmare. The one factor he didn't account for in his meticulous planning was the childhood best friend he lost contact with years ago.
Book 2 in the In Love With a Criminal series
🫵🏼 The Vigilante is for readers who:
• appreciate meaningful LGBTQ+ rep in books
• appreciate sex positive, inclusive stories
• enjoy dark romance
• appreciate an antihero love interest
• enjoy reading about vigilante justice
• delight in morally grey and/or morally ambiguous characters
• romance stories that question right vs wrong rather than offering clear cut answers
• enjoy stories that challenge romanticized notions of justice
• appreciate psychological tension over conventional redemption arcs
📙 The Vigilante is a dark M/M romance that leans heavily into moral ambiguity, obsession, and power dynamics, exploring what happens when justice fails and one man becomes a vigilante. Mia Monroe frames frames the story as both a romance and a psychological examination, where desire and danger are inseparable and love grows in the shadow of violence. It's intense, unapologetically dark, emotionally charged, and topped off with spice.
✨ I didn't read book 1 prior (but will be rectifying that ASAP, possibly as soon as I finish this review 😂). I feel this can be read as a standalone, but would be an enhanced or elevated experience if you read the books in order. What I saw of Nonna, Deo, and Balt in this book is part of why I want to read The Protector ASAP - those Easter eggs/check ins have me incredibly curious.
“Amos, dammit, don’t you care? You’ve got grandkids, same as me.”
“Well, now I heard it was all in the church. He don’t go to my church.”
That last sentence - too many people just don't care about people doing bad things to others because it hasn't yet directly impacted them and/or their loved ones. They can turn a blind eye to it as long as it doesn't, because that's easier, safer.
⚖️ Does stopping evil by doing "evil" things make you a monster? Rather than telling readers how to feel about this, Monroe allows the tension to remain unresolved. This aptly mirrors real world discomfort with vigilante morality.
"...Like they didn’t ruin those poor kids they abused.”
I don't love that line, although I admit it's commonly said in real life. Kids (and adults) that are survivors of that sort of stuff aren't ruined—even if we feel like we are, at least at times. I say this as a childhood survival of SA and CSAM.
✍🏼 Monroe's prose is clear, direct, accessible, and often emotionally charged. Focusing more on internal conflict than action really puts readers in the characters heads. The dialogue reads smoothly and naturally.
⏳The pacing feels like it intentionally mirrors obsession—until release feels inevitable rather than relieving. At only 238 pages (ebook), it makes for a quick read that I didn't want to put down.
👥 "...The cool thing about Pride is it brings so many different kinds of people out and together, you know? It’s how the world should always be.”
We get meaningful LGBTQ+ rep that's well done. It doesn't feel token, nor does it objectify.
The characters accept one another for who they are and where they currently are in life with no qualms.
I loved the emotional maturity shown in the book and the way Monroe delved into the MCs psyches. It enhanced their depth and dimensionality.
Monroe seems to have a knack for writing characters that feel like people we all know (or at least know of, even if tangentially) in real life.
Initially I had slight difficulties keeping the MCs straight, but I was also sick and taking cold meds (on top of a wonky brain 😂). I think not having read book 1 played a bit of a role, too. I just couldn't remember which one was Vinian and which was Nantes for some reason.
💙 The romance is truly in the forefront here. I love and appreciate that we do not get any of the 'I can make him straight/gay for me' BS. Childhood best friends who ended up losing contact after high school and are now reconnecting, things to a coincidental meeting (or kismet, either way).
"Straight people do butt stuff too."
🌶️ I adore how sex positive this book is. Two guys, platonic friends, go into an adult toy store and browse. No judgement, no teasing, no awkwardness. The store associate is super helpful and knowledgeable - highlighting the sex positivity theme. They have open, honest discussions of all things including this and I love that.
The spice serves the characters/story and feels earned. There's ample build up so the tension is high.
📚 If you liked: God of Fury (Rina Kent), The Mercenary and the Mortician (Alexandra St. Pierre), Unhinged (Onley James), One For Sorrow (Louise Collins), His Quiet Agent (Ada Maria Soto), or The Witness (A.N. Boyden), then I think you'd enjoy The Vigilante.
⚠️ Please check author's site for info on CW/TW.
Thank you @miapensromance and @literallyyourspr for the opportunity to read this eARC. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and freely given.
---
frtc - need to process and figure out my rating. 4+ stars
January 19, 2026
When the justice system is failing those who have been assaulted, Van decides he has to take matters into his own hands. He is a therapist and is tired of witnessing victims never getting justice and can’t handle it anymore. But when things heat up a little he decides it’s time to leave town so he is going to visit his sister, but she isn’t there. Be bumps into his old friend, Nantes.
Watching these two bloom from their childhood friendship into more it was beautiful. Nantes doesn’t know what Van does at first, but he accepts him completely. And allows him to accept that his sexuality is changing.
The book was full of heavy topics, but also had some light hearted moments and lots of steamy ones also.
Watching these two bloom from their childhood friendship into more it was beautiful. Nantes doesn’t know what Van does at first, but he accepts him completely. And allows him to accept that his sexuality is changing.
The book was full of heavy topics, but also had some light hearted moments and lots of steamy ones also.
January 23, 2026
4.25 stars
This is book two in the author’s In Love With A Criminal series and features Nantes, Deo’s, (from The Pretender) brother and his childhood best friend, Vanian.
As a child therapist, Vanian had heard so many horror stories of SA that he had to find a way of dealing with it. (Bet you can guess how simply by the title😅!) What began as a way to establish an alibi became so much more than he could ever have imagined when he unexpectedly ran into Nantes, his best friend from childhood who he’d lost touch with years before.
Nantes couldn’t believe it when he saw Vanian! He’d always had a crush on his straight best friend and couldn’t believe it when he’d ran into him out shopping in their hometown. Especially since it’d been years since they’d seen each other and Vanian had no clue he was gay!
I could completely sympathize with Vanian. Just thinking about the things some of those poor babies (and I’m not talking about their ages) were exposed to broke my heart and I could totally understand why he did the things he did; he stood up for them when no one else would!
These two guys were amazing together; they were incredibly sweet and deserving of every good thing out there. The Benedetti’s close family ties were absolutely wonderful and exactly what Vanian needed with all of the stress he was under and they were only too happy to welcome him back to the fold after having been gone so long.
In case you can’t already tell, this was a really good book. I didn’t realize until I was getting ready to post my review but I already own book one, The Pretender. Whenever I find a book on sale by a favorite author, I grab it to save for a dry spell and now, after learning about Deo and Balt, I’ve got to go read it ‘cause now I’m curious about Balt. For our two guys here, I hope you’ll go ahead and check it out. 4.25 stars.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is book two in the author’s In Love With A Criminal series and features Nantes, Deo’s, (from The Pretender) brother and his childhood best friend, Vanian.
As a child therapist, Vanian had heard so many horror stories of SA that he had to find a way of dealing with it. (Bet you can guess how simply by the title😅!) What began as a way to establish an alibi became so much more than he could ever have imagined when he unexpectedly ran into Nantes, his best friend from childhood who he’d lost touch with years before.
Nantes couldn’t believe it when he saw Vanian! He’d always had a crush on his straight best friend and couldn’t believe it when he’d ran into him out shopping in their hometown. Especially since it’d been years since they’d seen each other and Vanian had no clue he was gay!
I could completely sympathize with Vanian. Just thinking about the things some of those poor babies (and I’m not talking about their ages) were exposed to broke my heart and I could totally understand why he did the things he did; he stood up for them when no one else would!
These two guys were amazing together; they were incredibly sweet and deserving of every good thing out there. The Benedetti’s close family ties were absolutely wonderful and exactly what Vanian needed with all of the stress he was under and they were only too happy to welcome him back to the fold after having been gone so long.
In case you can’t already tell, this was a really good book. I didn’t realize until I was getting ready to post my review but I already own book one, The Pretender. Whenever I find a book on sale by a favorite author, I grab it to save for a dry spell and now, after learning about Deo and Balt, I’ve got to go read it ‘cause now I’m curious about Balt. For our two guys here, I hope you’ll go ahead and check it out. 4.25 stars.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Rating: 3/5 🌟
Spice: 3/5 🌶️
Characters: Nantes and Vanian
The romance between these two was sweet and steamy. I really enjoyed reading about them rekindling their friendship and then it growing into more.
Van is a therapist that feels like the justice system doesn't do enough to keep people safe, so he takes it upon himself to do it. When things heat up a bit, he leaves town to visit his sister. She ends up being away on a trip and he bumps into Nantes. Him and Nantes were childhood friends that lost touch. Nantes retired from being a doctor and is now working at his family winery. He invites Vanian to stay with him for a bit so they can catch up. Nantes has no idea what Van does in his free time.
Like I said, I really loved seeing these two rekindle their friendship and I liked how their relationship developed. They made me chuckle, had some very sweet moments, and some great chemistry and steam. The main topic of the book is a heavy one and was done a bit heavy handed in my opinion. I agree that child abusers and just abusers in general are the scum of the earth. I had no issues with what Van chose to do. I read plenty of dark romance and it's a common thing for the heroes to do. I just didn't love how much things were discussed. I don't know how to word it properly. Like maybe there was some over communication going on. It's hard to describe or explain. I liked the romance but didn't love the storyline maybe.
This series is light despite having darker themes. There is a large family that is fun and diverse. Plenty of giggles, sweet moments, great steam, and a range of lovable and sometimes vulnerable characters. It centers around the family that owns and runs the winery all falling in love with men that do some criminal activities.
Spice: 3/5 🌶️
Characters: Nantes and Vanian
The romance between these two was sweet and steamy. I really enjoyed reading about them rekindling their friendship and then it growing into more.
Van is a therapist that feels like the justice system doesn't do enough to keep people safe, so he takes it upon himself to do it. When things heat up a bit, he leaves town to visit his sister. She ends up being away on a trip and he bumps into Nantes. Him and Nantes were childhood friends that lost touch. Nantes retired from being a doctor and is now working at his family winery. He invites Vanian to stay with him for a bit so they can catch up. Nantes has no idea what Van does in his free time.
Like I said, I really loved seeing these two rekindle their friendship and I liked how their relationship developed. They made me chuckle, had some very sweet moments, and some great chemistry and steam. The main topic of the book is a heavy one and was done a bit heavy handed in my opinion. I agree that child abusers and just abusers in general are the scum of the earth. I had no issues with what Van chose to do. I read plenty of dark romance and it's a common thing for the heroes to do. I just didn't love how much things were discussed. I don't know how to word it properly. Like maybe there was some over communication going on. It's hard to describe or explain. I liked the romance but didn't love the storyline maybe.
This series is light despite having darker themes. There is a large family that is fun and diverse. Plenty of giggles, sweet moments, great steam, and a range of lovable and sometimes vulnerable characters. It centers around the family that owns and runs the winery all falling in love with men that do some criminal activities.
January 15, 2026
So, I felt that for being the token straight man, Vanian, was insanely pushy (in almost every chapter) on whether or not Nantes was into him. When Nan was kind of like, dude you were my straight bestie, ofc not, Vanian gets even MORE pushier.
Like dude, just because your childhood best friend is gay, doesn't mean he was into you. But he just... didn't get it? Literally every chapter he was there, pushing Nantes on why he didn't look at him, check him out, or have feelings for him when they were teens.
Some of the sentences used here were also really fucking weird. "It made my tummy feel funny" was one that was repeated over and over and I'm just like, what? My guy. You are almost 40 years old. You can say you felt horny as a teen. You've been horny since then so obviously you recognized what that was? You're not a tween or teen anymore? Idk. Weird.
The other part is how obsessed they are with killing the child molesters in this book and how they would constantly say how they're not even people, they're sub humans and aren't even human. It got really repetitive and boring. Like we get it. They're monsters. And humans. Human monsters.
Every single abuser in this story was insanely stupid, like my god. They always got them to host them or trick them into following them into a far away place to be murdered and managed to talk about the kids they abused the entire time. Like, really? None of these men were like, "This is sus. They might be cops." Like??? Not al all?
But yeah, the feelings were INSANELY rushed here, one dude dances around a secret which somehow everyone in this house knows about, bad dudes were idiots and suddenly the straight dude is down to ass play.
k.
Like dude, just because your childhood best friend is gay, doesn't mean he was into you. But he just... didn't get it? Literally every chapter he was there, pushing Nantes on why he didn't look at him, check him out, or have feelings for him when they were teens.
Some of the sentences used here were also really fucking weird. "It made my tummy feel funny" was one that was repeated over and over and I'm just like, what? My guy. You are almost 40 years old. You can say you felt horny as a teen. You've been horny since then so obviously you recognized what that was? You're not a tween or teen anymore? Idk. Weird.
The other part is how obsessed they are with killing the child molesters in this book and how they would constantly say how they're not even people, they're sub humans and aren't even human. It got really repetitive and boring. Like we get it. They're monsters. And humans. Human monsters.
Every single abuser in this story was insanely stupid, like my god. They always got them to host them or trick them into following them into a far away place to be murdered and managed to talk about the kids they abused the entire time. Like, really? None of these men were like, "This is sus. They might be cops." Like??? Not al all?
But yeah, the feelings were INSANELY rushed here, one dude dances around a secret which somehow everyone in this house knows about, bad dudes were idiots and suddenly the straight dude is down to ass play.
k.
January 19, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
🌶️🌶️🌶️
I absolutely loved The Vigilante! This is book two in a series but it can be read as a complete standalone. There are so many amazing pieces that go into it. Firstly, I love that it’s dark because of its theme but there is plenty of humor and sweet moments throughout that it’s not a heavy dark book. Vanian is a therapist who’s seen the system fail victims far too many times so he becomes serial k*ller but for the right reasons. His vigilante justice is unorthodox but needed he is there to avenge kids who the system failed. The relationship between Nantes and Vanian develops kind of quickly but also not since it’s a reconnection with all of their history growing up it makes sense the speed it is. I loved how their relationship was focused on them but also we had all of the snippets of family throughout it made it so connected and sweet. Also Nonna is my favorite. I absolutely love the matriarch of a family being sweet older lady and bad*ss who takes care of things at the same time. This book was such a great balance of serious moments, morally grey men, vigilante justice, swoony relationship moments, hot spice, and family. I laughed multiple times out loud and I’m so glad I found this book. I absolutely cannot wait for the next book in this series!
If you like MM romance and dark romance that has humor you absolutely need to read this.
Thank you to Literally Yours PR & Mia Monroe for this ARC! 🫶
January 19, 2026
This story was a lot of fun and had quite a few moving parts. First we have Vanian aka The Vigilante. His years as a child therapist spent listening to the most horrendous things someone could do to a child has weighed on him. And it gets heavier every time he sees an abuser go free in a system that is often more broken than not. After his latest hunt, Vanian needs to cool his jets for a bit so he decides to head to his old stomping grounds to visit his sister and runs into his old bestie Nantes instead.
"𝚆𝚎'𝚟𝚎 𝚙𝚒𝚌𝚔𝚎𝚍 𝚞𝚙 𝚛𝚒𝚐𝚑𝚝 𝚠𝚑𝚎𝚛𝚎 𝚠𝚎 𝚕𝚎𝚏𝚝 𝚘𝚏𝚏, 𝚋𝚞𝚝 𝚠𝚎'𝚛𝚎 𝚋𝚎𝚝𝚝𝚎𝚛 𝚗𝚘𝚠 - 𝚠𝚒𝚜𝚎𝚛, 𝚖𝚘𝚛𝚎 𝚖𝚊𝚝𝚞𝚛𝚎, 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚠𝚎 𝚑𝚊𝚟𝚎 𝚊𝚍𝚞𝚕𝚝 𝚖𝚘𝚗𝚎𝚢."
Nantes is pretty shocked to see his old bestie and one of the men he had the biggest crush on in his formative years. I mean, the guy doesn't even know he's gay FFS! That's how long it's been since these two have met up. I liked how we didn't get a huge amount of awkwardness. These two have such a connection that they fell into their routine and chats like no time had passed at all. It was really remarkable and spoke of their bond. It made me sad they let it slip away.
Of course we still get to see lots of Nantes family and the winery. Nonna is still a highlight and one of my favorites. I have a pretty good idea who the remaining family members will be keeping by their side and I am hoping we get their collective stories soon!
"𝚆𝚎'𝚟𝚎 𝚙𝚒𝚌𝚔𝚎𝚍 𝚞𝚙 𝚛𝚒𝚐𝚑𝚝 𝚠𝚑𝚎𝚛𝚎 𝚠𝚎 𝚕𝚎𝚏𝚝 𝚘𝚏𝚏, 𝚋𝚞𝚝 𝚠𝚎'𝚛𝚎 𝚋𝚎𝚝𝚝𝚎𝚛 𝚗𝚘𝚠 - 𝚠𝚒𝚜𝚎𝚛, 𝚖𝚘𝚛𝚎 𝚖𝚊𝚝𝚞𝚛𝚎, 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚠𝚎 𝚑𝚊𝚟𝚎 𝚊𝚍𝚞𝚕𝚝 𝚖𝚘𝚗𝚎𝚢."
Nantes is pretty shocked to see his old bestie and one of the men he had the biggest crush on in his formative years. I mean, the guy doesn't even know he's gay FFS! That's how long it's been since these two have met up. I liked how we didn't get a huge amount of awkwardness. These two have such a connection that they fell into their routine and chats like no time had passed at all. It was really remarkable and spoke of their bond. It made me sad they let it slip away.
Of course we still get to see lots of Nantes family and the winery. Nonna is still a highlight and one of my favorites. I have a pretty good idea who the remaining family members will be keeping by their side and I am hoping we get their collective stories soon!
January 18, 2026
“Could you love me back, Nantes? Could you see yourself building a life with me?”
The yearning between these two is adorable🥹. I love them for each other, the way they're both vulnerable, understanding, and considerate, especially when it comes to their feelings, truly awed me.
After years of losing touch, separated by collage and working in different cities, a coincidence brings Van and Nantes back together. What starts as a rekindling of their friendship, slowly develops into something more as they begin to discover their growing feelings to each other! Opening up about their secrets: Van's side job and Nan's long time crush cements their relationship and leads to a beautiful ending❤️.
🎀Fav Quotes:
✨️“I don’t want you to leave. I want to keep building this new thing between us. I want to love you out loud.”
✨️"I don’t know the future, no one does, but I know mine includes you. If you’ll have me.” “Of course I’ll have you.”
✨️“I promise to stop. I’ll figure it out. You’re a good reason to stop.”
✨️“And you look beautiful, all submissive for me. Would you like to be on your knees for me?”
✨️“I’m gonna love this, Bends. Turning you inside out, feeling you come on my cock, I can’t wait.”
✨️“Of course I can. You were my first crush, and I spent way too many nights imagining us together.”
💜Tropes:
💜Childhood Bestfriends
💜Serial Unaliver
💜Bi Awakening
💜MM Romance
💜Possessive MC
💜Forced Proximity
💜Dark Themes
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️.8(3.8)
Spice Level: 🌶🌶🌶(3)
January 15, 2026
It was such a joy to be back with the Benedetti family at their winery, and this time it’s Nantes’ turn to find his happily ever after. His unexpected reunion with his childhood best friend, Vanian, sets the tone for a story full of nostalgia, chemistry, and emotional depth. Their reconnection felt effortless—like no time had passed at all—which made their journey even sweeter.
Vanian did come across a bit pushy early on when digging into Nantes’ old feelings, but it was a brief moment in an otherwise thoughtful and gentle dynamic. I really enjoyed how open and relaxed he was about his own awakening and the new experiences he was exploring. As always, the Benedetti clan steals every scene they’re in. They’re lively, warm, and endlessly entertaining. And Nonna? She remains the absolute star. She always has something to say, and somehow every comment reveals another delightful piece of her past.
The story strikes a great balance between swoony, steamy, and funny moments, while also weaving in darker, grittier threads tied to Vanian’s past. That contrast kept the book engaging from start to finish. Overall, this was a fun, heartfelt read, and I’m already excited to see what’s next for the Benedetti family.
Vanian did come across a bit pushy early on when digging into Nantes’ old feelings, but it was a brief moment in an otherwise thoughtful and gentle dynamic. I really enjoyed how open and relaxed he was about his own awakening and the new experiences he was exploring. As always, the Benedetti clan steals every scene they’re in. They’re lively, warm, and endlessly entertaining. And Nonna? She remains the absolute star. She always has something to say, and somehow every comment reveals another delightful piece of her past.
The story strikes a great balance between swoony, steamy, and funny moments, while also weaving in darker, grittier threads tied to Vanian’s past. That contrast kept the book engaging from start to finish. Overall, this was a fun, heartfelt read, and I’m already excited to see what’s next for the Benedetti family.
Review of advance copy received from Author
It was great being back with the Benedetti's at their winery and this time it's Nantes' turn to get his happily ever after. He accidentally runs into his childhood best friend who is visiting, and who has had an interesting life since he's been away. I loved how they reconnected and it felt like no time has passed since they last saw each other. Vanian did feel a bit pushy when he was trying to find out about Nantes' feelings towards him when they were teenagers, but that was just a blip. Vanian turned out to be very relaxed about his awakening and him trying out new things, which I enjoyed.
The Benedetti's are such a fun bunch and I loved every scene they were in. Nonna is the best, honestly. She always has something to say and you always find it out something interesting about her past.
This was a fun book, and I enjoyed how the lighthearted parts were interwoven with the darker parts of what exactly Vanian was up to. There were swoony, steamy and funny moments, while we also got some darker, grittyer, heavier moments as well.
I'm excited to see what's next for the Benedetti family.
The Benedetti's are such a fun bunch and I loved every scene they were in. Nonna is the best, honestly. She always has something to say and you always find it out something interesting about her past.
This was a fun book, and I enjoyed how the lighthearted parts were interwoven with the darker parts of what exactly Vanian was up to. There were swoony, steamy and funny moments, while we also got some darker, grittyer, heavier moments as well.
I'm excited to see what's next for the Benedetti family.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I love a good Morally Gray ML and Mia Monroe gives us that again in her newest “In Love with a Criminal” book, The Vigilante. We are back in the world of the Winery that we discovered with Deo and Balt. Vigilante brings us the story of Deo’s brother Nantes, who has left his job as a physician to come home and work at the Winery. A one in a million chance brings him back in touch with his childhood best friend Vanian, a therapist who is hiding a huge secret. One that could bring an ending to the budding relationship with Nantes. Nantes had a lifelong crush on Vanian but he never put himself out there as he assumed Van was straight. As they spend time together they both realize that they may not have known as much about each other as they thought or even themselves at times. Together they work through the emotional turmoil, in very different ways, that health care providers can find themselves dealing with. We get to get updates on the rest of the family and beloved Nonna. This was an enjoyable read and I can’t wait to see what the author gives us in the next book.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Vanian is the kind of morally gray you don’t argue with — a child therapist who turns vigilante to protect the vulnerable, and honestly? It works. His mission is dark, violent, and deeply rooted in empathy, which makes him impossible not to root for.
But the real magic is his reconnection with Nantes.
Their emotional pull is subtle, intense, and quietly consuming. Watching Vanian navigate his unexpected bi awakening while falling back into a bond that never really disappeared was beautifully done. It’s tender without losing the edge, emotional without getting soft.
I also loved the found-family element surrounding Vanian — it grounds the darkness and gives the story real heart. No complaints here. The balance between violence, healing, love, and identity felt solid from start to finish.
If you like your romance morally complicated, emotionally honest, and wrapped in found-family warmth, this one delivers.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
But the real magic is his reconnection with Nantes.
Their emotional pull is subtle, intense, and quietly consuming. Watching Vanian navigate his unexpected bi awakening while falling back into a bond that never really disappeared was beautifully done. It’s tender without losing the edge, emotional without getting soft.
I also loved the found-family element surrounding Vanian — it grounds the darkness and gives the story real heart. No complaints here. The balance between violence, healing, love, and identity felt solid from start to finish.
If you like your romance morally complicated, emotionally honest, and wrapped in found-family warmth, this one delivers.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 19, 2026
This is book 2 in the In Love With A Criminal series and it can be enjoyed as a standalone read. This is the story of Vanian and Nantes. Vanian is a child therapist who has seen how the system fails the victims time and again. Frustrated and fed up with the rich and powerful going unpunished; Vanian decides to take matters into his own hands. He uses vigilante justice to find justice for the children who the system failed. Needing to establish an alibi, Vanian goes to visit his sister but she isn't home. It is there that he runs into his childhood BFF. Nantes is a doctor who became frustrated with the overwhelming paperwork and administration he was forced to do. It became his primary focus instead of treating patients. So he quit and moved back to the family winery. It is completely by accident that he runs into his old BFF Vanian. The spark between them rekindles immediately. This is their story. The book is written well and is easy to read. I enjoyed it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 20, 2026
The Vigilante was such a fun return to the Benedetti family and their winery...this time with Nantes finally getting his happily ever after.
I loved the childhood best friends reunion with Vanian. Their reconnection felt effortless, like no time had passed, and the chemistry was instantly there. Vanian did feel a tiny bit pushy early on when digging into past feelings, but it passed quickly, and I really enjoyed how relaxed and open he was about his awakening and trying new things.
The Benedetti family remains a highlight...every scene with them was gold, and Nonna is still an absolute legend. I love how you always learn something unexpected about her past.
This book balanced lighthearted, swoony, and steamy moments with darker, grittier elements tied to Vanian’s secret life, and that contrast worked really well. If you enjoy morally gray love interests and found family vibes, this one hits the spot.
I’m definitely excited to see what’s next for the Benedettis.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I loved the childhood best friends reunion with Vanian. Their reconnection felt effortless, like no time had passed, and the chemistry was instantly there. Vanian did feel a tiny bit pushy early on when digging into past feelings, but it passed quickly, and I really enjoyed how relaxed and open he was about his awakening and trying new things.
The Benedetti family remains a highlight...every scene with them was gold, and Nonna is still an absolute legend. I love how you always learn something unexpected about her past.
This book balanced lighthearted, swoony, and steamy moments with darker, grittier elements tied to Vanian’s secret life, and that contrast worked really well. If you enjoy morally gray love interests and found family vibes, this one hits the spot.
I’m definitely excited to see what’s next for the Benedettis.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 21, 2026
The Vigilante by Mia Monroe is a tense and passionate MM romance that blends vigilante justice with intense emotional stakes and sizzling chemistry. The story follows a brooding vigilante fighting corruption in the shadows and a principled man whose life becomes dangerously intertwined with his, forcing them to confront attraction amid high-stakes danger and moral conflicts. Monroe's writing grips you with raw tension and heartfelt vulnerability that kept me turning pages.
I appreciated the strong character dynamics, where opposites clash and connect in authentic, steamy ways, balanced by themes of trust, redemption, and found family. The plot delivers thrilling action without overshadowing the romantic core, with well-paced suspense leading to satisfying emotional payoffs.
While vigilante romance tropes feel familiar, Monroe's emotional depth and spicy heat make The Vigilante stand out. Overall, I’m giving it four stars. It’s a compelling, high-heat read perfect for fans of MM romance with danger and heart.
I appreciated the strong character dynamics, where opposites clash and connect in authentic, steamy ways, balanced by themes of trust, redemption, and found family. The plot delivers thrilling action without overshadowing the romantic core, with well-paced suspense leading to satisfying emotional payoffs.
While vigilante romance tropes feel familiar, Monroe's emotional depth and spicy heat make The Vigilante stand out. Overall, I’m giving it four stars. It’s a compelling, high-heat read perfect for fans of MM romance with danger and heart.
Review of advance copy received from Author
"Not that anyone would guess that a mild-mannered child psychiatrist is Chicago’s most prolific predator ender."
This is the second story in Mia Monroe's In Love With a Criminal series. This was a bit dark for me, I like my romance paired with a lighter theme. Book 1 in this series wasn't quite as dark and I enjoyed it more than I did this one.
If you love a "Dexteresque" type of story then this one is perfect for you. The story has a dark hero meting out justice to the lowlifes he feels are deserving. I was worried that nonna was going to have to ride to the rescue, once again, when he went a bit off the rails. I always felt like Mafia style romances were dark but vigilante romances brought it to a whole different level of darkness. I guess I need to add that as one of my triggers, who knew?!
Childhood friends, bi-awakening, hiding out until things cool down, doing your homework is essential
This is the second story in Mia Monroe's In Love With a Criminal series. This was a bit dark for me, I like my romance paired with a lighter theme. Book 1 in this series wasn't quite as dark and I enjoyed it more than I did this one.
If you love a "Dexteresque" type of story then this one is perfect for you. The story has a dark hero meting out justice to the lowlifes he feels are deserving. I was worried that nonna was going to have to ride to the rescue, once again, when he went a bit off the rails. I always felt like Mafia style romances were dark but vigilante romances brought it to a whole different level of darkness. I guess I need to add that as one of my triggers, who knew?!
Childhood friends, bi-awakening, hiding out until things cool down, doing your homework is essential
January 28, 2026
This was another easy, enjoyable read in Mia’s In Love With A Criminal series, and it kept the same charm that made the first book fun while leaning a little further into the darker side of the world. There’s definitely more criminal activity this time around, but it comes in bursts rather than overwhelming the story. Even when things get a bit graphic, it never felt excessive, and the sweetness of the romance balances it out really well.
Nantes was such a lovable lead. He’s soft, sincere, and impossible not to root for, especially when it comes to his long-standing feelings for Vanian. Their reconnection felt natural and warm, with that childhood-friends-to-lovers energy that just works. Vanian’s vigilante streak and hero complex added an interesting layer, especially as he grapples with his choices, his identity, and what being accepted really means. The bi awakening storyline was handled gently and felt genuine rather than rushed.
Nantes was such a lovable lead. He’s soft, sincere, and impossible not to root for, especially when it comes to his long-standing feelings for Vanian. Their reconnection felt natural and warm, with that childhood-friends-to-lovers energy that just works. Vanian’s vigilante streak and hero complex added an interesting layer, especially as he grapples with his choices, his identity, and what being accepted really means. The bi awakening storyline was handled gently and felt genuine rather than rushed.
Review of advance copy received from Author
3.75⭐️
Another easy to read, cute instalment in Mia’s In Love With A Criminal series. There’s a lot more criminality in this compared to the first - but it’s sporadic - and whilst a little graphic, I didn’t find it too in your face and the romance and sweetness is still here.
This time it’s Deo’s brother Nantes’ turn to find love and he ends up reconnecting with his childhood best friend and secret crush Vanian. Nantes is super cute in this and Vanian has a bit of a hero complex, taking justice into his own hands. So there’s the bi awakening love story as well as navigating his lifestyle choices and being accepted.
Similarly to the first book there’s some interesting spice scenes and good interaction with Nantes’ family. I’m hoping before the series end we get Brogan’s story too.
A good addition to the series.
I received an ARC, this is my honest review.
Another easy to read, cute instalment in Mia’s In Love With A Criminal series. There’s a lot more criminality in this compared to the first - but it’s sporadic - and whilst a little graphic, I didn’t find it too in your face and the romance and sweetness is still here.
This time it’s Deo’s brother Nantes’ turn to find love and he ends up reconnecting with his childhood best friend and secret crush Vanian. Nantes is super cute in this and Vanian has a bit of a hero complex, taking justice into his own hands. So there’s the bi awakening love story as well as navigating his lifestyle choices and being accepted.
Similarly to the first book there’s some interesting spice scenes and good interaction with Nantes’ family. I’m hoping before the series end we get Brogan’s story too.
A good addition to the series.
I received an ARC, this is my honest review.
January 16, 2026
Another delightful visit with the Benedettis!
I do really enjoy getting to visit the winery and reading about the Benedettis (Nonna especially!). Nantes and Vanian's story was an intriguing one. The romance itself was quite sweet which was an interesting combination with the morally grey (and criminal) actions of Vanian. Nantes and Vanian make a sweet couple and they work really well together, quickly getting back to the same camaraderie they had when they were younger. It did initially rub me the wrong way how insistent Vanian was about Nantes telling him he was attracted to him when they were younger, but at the same time Vanian was guilty of a lot worse. This book is everything that makes me love Mia's morally grey; it has a bit of violence, a nice lot of vengeance, a whole lot of sweetness. What more could you want?
I do really enjoy getting to visit the winery and reading about the Benedettis (Nonna especially!). Nantes and Vanian's story was an intriguing one. The romance itself was quite sweet which was an interesting combination with the morally grey (and criminal) actions of Vanian. Nantes and Vanian make a sweet couple and they work really well together, quickly getting back to the same camaraderie they had when they were younger. It did initially rub me the wrong way how insistent Vanian was about Nantes telling him he was attracted to him when they were younger, but at the same time Vanian was guilty of a lot worse. This book is everything that makes me love Mia's morally grey; it has a bit of violence, a nice lot of vengeance, a whole lot of sweetness. What more could you want?
January 21, 2026
Vanian is taking the law into his own hands and now the heat is on. He goes back to his hometown and finds his childhood best friend, Nantes. Nantes has made some big changes in his life and now he works for the family business instead of remaining a practicing Doctor. Vanian needs an alibi and wants to catch up with his best friend.
These two have secrets that they need to reveal to each other and possibly having Vanian see Nantes in a new light.
I enjoyed this book and how our two characters get back into each other lives. I like how they finally open up to each other and learn about what is going on in their lives that has them feeling out of sorts. I believe that the ending was perfect for them and I can't wait to read the next book in the series and learn more about the new people that we met.
These two have secrets that they need to reveal to each other and possibly having Vanian see Nantes in a new light.
I enjoyed this book and how our two characters get back into each other lives. I like how they finally open up to each other and learn about what is going on in their lives that has them feeling out of sorts. I believe that the ending was perfect for them and I can't wait to read the next book in the series and learn more about the new people that we met.
Review of advance copy received from Author
It took me awhile to remember details from book one while reading this one, but Nonna & the other Bennedettis clued me in, and I still very much adore them! Van & Nantes coming together was a long time coming, with a lot of life & questionable choices between them, which they were able to navigate with the help of supportive family. Van's 'hobby' could've kept them apart, kept him lonely, not to mention the tiny fact that he believes he's not into guys. Somehow, reconnecting with his bestie from back in the day opened LOTS of options for him, and them, that he never would've imagined. I love this series concept, and so far, both books. The cast of characters is colorful, and I'm eagerly looking forward to more In Love With a Criminal type stories.
Review of advance copy
Second chance, bi-awakening, BFF’s to lovers and the second story in the “In Love with a Criminal” series. Vanian has done a very bad deed in the name of good and has to lay low out of town for a while. Planning to head to his sister’s house as an alibi, he stops in his old hometown and runs into his ex bff. Nantes can’t believe his eyes. His bff, and secret childhood crush, was back. Nantes invites Vanian back to the winery and offers him a place to stay for the short time he’s around. Vanian has to keep his secret from tainting Nantes or his family though. And there are some other truths that surface as the two men rekindle their friendship. Such as the fact that Nantes’ crush seems to have only been put on the back burner and is now out in the open between them. Vanian has never been interested in men before, but he finds himself becoming more and more attracted to Nantes as the days go on. But, there is always an expiration on their time and Nantes has to decide if he can open himself to heartbreak a second time. Plus, the other members of Nantes family (ie: Nonna and Deo’s partner Balt) seem to have a clue about his outside proclivities. Will Nantes & Vanian get their HEA, or will Vanian’s obsession put the kibosh on their budding new romance? Looking forward to the next book in the series.
January 18, 2026
'The Vigilante is Book 2 in the In Love With A Criminal series. In it, you can expect darker themes, a man hell-bent on protecting the vulnerable, some violence, a very unexpected awakening, childhood friends rekindling their friendship (and more!), a lively family with secrets of their own, a touch of forced proximity, steamy nights, and love, sweet love.'
The plot was intriguing and exciting and well paced. World building continues to excel and impress. The characters were so very appealing and complex and complicated and absolutely perfect together. All in all a great addition to the series. Enjoyed immensely and highly recommend.
Grab a copy, kick back and enjoy!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The plot was intriguing and exciting and well paced. World building continues to excel and impress. The characters were so very appealing and complex and complicated and absolutely perfect together. All in all a great addition to the series. Enjoyed immensely and highly recommend.
Grab a copy, kick back and enjoy!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This second entry into Mia Monroe's series, In Love With a Criminal, is just okay. This series is her foray back into Contemporary Romance, and the first novel in the series was a great opening. This second one, to me, wasn't as explosive. The middle felt saggy, and Vanian was pushy about getting Nantes to reveal his crush and his feelings, which is fine in the long run, but it felt forced and, for me, didn't put Van in a good light. He does redeem himself with sweet actions and steamy scenes, but unfortunately, this isn't my favorite novel so far. I am looking forward to Guils story, the next in the series.
January 15, 2026
Anyone working with vulnerable people can get tired of feeling like they aren’t doing enough, that they can never ‘fix’ the problem. Vanian has decided to make a definitive difference.
And when he needs time away, it brings him back to his childhood best friend, Nantes.
The rekindling of their friendship turned romance is a great reunion, full of all the things expected. Time spent learning about each other, laughing, and regretting what they’ve missed. Until it turns into something more. Full of fun exploration and tender moments.
The big question - what happens when Nantes learns Van’s secret? It’s a fun story!
And when he needs time away, it brings him back to his childhood best friend, Nantes.
The rekindling of their friendship turned romance is a great reunion, full of all the things expected. Time spent learning about each other, laughing, and regretting what they’ve missed. Until it turns into something more. Full of fun exploration and tender moments.
The big question - what happens when Nantes learns Van’s secret? It’s a fun story!
Review of advance copy received from Author
"The Vigilante" is book two in Mia Monroe's In Love With A Criminal Series. This book has a bit of a darker theme than book one but I am all for it. Although Nantes and Van have not seen each other in years, he connection between them is still strong. It is great watching these two reconnect and to see their relationship change. All the while, Van has a huge secret and he is struggling with it. There are secrets both revealed and not. I cannot wait to see what is revealed in the next book.
January 18, 2026
This was a fun, easy to read book, with some darker parts, that fit very well in the story. Nantes and Vanian, were best friends, and Nantes had a crush on Vanian but Vanian was straight, then went their separate ways and reconnected almost by chance later. I liked Nantes, I liked less Vanian, as a bit too pushy, and at the end they work well together. I loved the found-family element with the Benedetti's clan.
This is the second book of the series and can be read as a standalone.
I got an ARC and this is my honest review.
This is the second book of the series and can be read as a standalone.
I got an ARC and this is my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Just wow. Vanian is a child psychiatrist who has become disillusioned with the way the authorities handle the abusers. He took it upon himself to take care of things. Nantes was a doctor who was not able continue as he had to deal more with red tape than taking care of patients. He decided to quit and start working at the family winery. When Van decided to go to see his sister, he ends up seeing Nantes. They were childhood friends who drifted apart. This was the start of their story of how they reconnected and learned more about the years they were not together. I loved the progression of the book to their happy ever after. I cannot wait to read more in this world.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Vanian finds himself back in his childhood hometown after taking care of his lastest kill. He runs into his best friend Nantes.
They pick up where they left off as if no time has passed between them. Vanian learns that his bestie kept a big secret from him while they were growing up. Of course, he is know having questions about himself.
The Benedetti family is supportive and loving and Nonna is a whirlwind.
Bi-awaking, found family, a criminal who protects the vunerable and a HEA
They pick up where they left off as if no time has passed between them. Vanian learns that his bestie kept a big secret from him while they were growing up. Of course, he is know having questions about himself.
The Benedetti family is supportive and loving and Nonna is a whirlwind.
Bi-awaking, found family, a criminal who protects the vunerable and a HEA
Review of advance copy received from Author
The Vigilante by Mia Monroe
MMC: Nantes
MMC: Vanian
This is the second story in Mia Monroe's In Love With a Criminal series. Van is a therapist that feels like the justice system doesn't do enough to keep people safe. He decides to be those predators nightmare. The one factor he didn't account for in his planning was the childhood best friend he lost contact with years ago. Nantes happens to be in Madison when he runs into Vanian.
MMC: Nantes
MMC: Vanian
This is the second story in Mia Monroe's In Love With a Criminal series. Van is a therapist that feels like the justice system doesn't do enough to keep people safe. He decides to be those predators nightmare. The one factor he didn't account for in his planning was the childhood best friend he lost contact with years ago. Nantes happens to be in Madison when he runs into Vanian.
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