What do you think?
Rate this book
Dark Little Game
I’m pulled too deep into a monster’s web.
Hunter Knox shouldn’t be at my college.
My best friend’s brother is unhinged. Dark. Violent.
And now he’s in our secret society frat, forced to share my room.
I only kiss him on the first night to get revenge, because Hunter doesn’t usually kiss men, and I don’t usually kiss psychopaths.
But the spark that flares between us becomes a forbidden game we play.
Hunter starts to follow me around like a stalker.
Becoming a little too obsessed with me.
We share an all-consuming secret that his brother can’t find out. And when I’m attacked, Hunter snaps into chaos, hell-bent on protecting me like I’m his possession.
Onyx Society is a fraternity that shouldn’t have to play by college rules, but someone from the outside is targeting us.
Targeting me.
Now nothing is safe. My best friendship, my sanity, and my heart.
Lines blur between desire and control… and I start to think I might want him to win this brutal game.
Hunter Knox shouldn’t be at my college.
My best friend’s brother is unhinged. Dark. Violent.
And now he’s in our secret society frat, forced to share my room.
I only kiss him on the first night to get revenge, because Hunter doesn’t usually kiss men, and I don’t usually kiss psychopaths.
But the spark that flares between us becomes a forbidden game we play.
Hunter starts to follow me around like a stalker.
Becoming a little too obsessed with me.
We share an all-consuming secret that his brother can’t find out. And when I’m attacked, Hunter snaps into chaos, hell-bent on protecting me like I’m his possession.
Onyx Society is a fraternity that shouldn’t have to play by college rules, but someone from the outside is targeting us.
Targeting me.
Now nothing is safe. My best friendship, my sanity, and my heart.
Lines blur between desire and control… and I start to think I might want him to win this brutal game.
328 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 23, 2025
263 people are currently reading
663 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 134 reviews
October 15, 2025
“You look pretty when you’re out of control”Dark Little Game is a best friend's brother, forced proximity dark-ish romance. It all starts with a kiss that's been a long time coming... When Rayne spots his boyfriend making out with someone else, he decides to recklessly kiss his best friend's straight brother Hunter, who just happens to be his new roommate at college. The two grow closer despite the many obstacles in their way, including Hunter's brother, a mysterious someone who's threatening members of their fraternity, and issues in their past that have never been dealt with. Rayne knows he feels safe when he's with Hunter. But what if he's confusing desire with trust?
“You think I’m your plaything,” he says softly, his voice a little ragged. “But you’re the one who admitted I’m the only thing that can get you off anymore.”
The book is interesting, with some twists and turns and plot lines that I won't spoil. But what I really liked was Raleigh's character building in this book- Hunter has mile-high walls that he's built to keep people out, whereas Rayne is more of the golden retriever character type. At about the 50% mark they seem to swap personalities but I think maybe they just both happened to demonstrate growth at the same time and it threw me off a little. Either way, the bond between the two was the best part of the book for me. The plot was a bit predictable- with a few issues that I'll leave out of my ARC review to avoid spoilers.
“Quit acting like I’m your enemy,” he tells me, something flickering in his eyes. “Yes, I’m following you. No, I am not going to stop. I’m going to watch you. I like watching you. And you like it, too, when you let yourself admit it.”
I know that everyone has a different idea of what falls into the 'dark' category, and I think we need a new subgenre of MM books because while this book has some dark elements, I'd call it darkish or dark adjacent. I never truly believed that Hunter was all that dangerous or felt like he was a genuinely bad person. Personally, I quite liked that as I was able to read a book about a character that I was rooting for the entire time. Rayne and Hunter are super cute as a couple and I enjoyed their interactions.
Maybe you just can’t tell the difference between wanting to hurt me and just wanting me, plain and simple.”
The set-up for the next book sounds super interesting with a unique trope combination of former rival and friends with benefits so I will absolutely be back for book 2!
Rating: 3.75
Angst: 3/5
Steam: 3.5/5
I received an advance copy of this book and this is my honest review
October 17, 2025
I really enjoyed the dramatics in this book and it definitely had kind of creepy yet cosy autumn vibes.
Hunter was a little on the stereotypical, trying too hard to be dark side of things, but I liked how he was protective of Rayne and his brother, Wes. He's experienced a lot of emotional trauma in his life and thinks he'll be alone forever, until he finds the person willing to look beyond the mask he presents to the world.
Rayne reminded me of a puppy desperate for attention! It was clear he wanted Hunter's attention on only him, and had done since they were young, but he'd never found a way to come out and say it, even to himself. I liked how Rayne realised there was more to Hunter than everyone else sees, and it was interesting when he was torn between the two brother's and his loyalty to them both.
I do think it was a little anti-climactic when Wes finally found out about his best friend and his brother, and it was brushed over quite quickly. I was hoping for something more along the lines of a Gossip Girl style Dramatic Reveal TM 😂 I did like how the three of them built their relationships in new ways though.
The secret society part of the story really confused me though. To me, a secret society is a society of people who are completely secret... Everyone knows these guys are in the Onyx Society?! It's essentially a glamorous, OTT and stupidly wealthy fraternity with some kooky traditions involving cloaks, candles, and sharing secrets - rather reminiscient of my teenage sleepovers when vampires and witches started getting popular 😂 If it had been portrayed as an upscale fraternity, rather than a secret society, it would have made more sense.
The bad guy plot was interesting and I didn't predict what was going to happen, so that was fun! Although I was super sad that Hunter and Rayne didn't go on their picnic date because it sounded so perfect.
Oliver's book is up next, and the set up was definitely intriguing. I'm convinced there's more going on with him than we've seen so far, he just comes across as super sketchy to me so I can't wait to see what happens.
*****
I received an ARC of this book from Raleigh Ruebins, and this is my honest review
Hunter was a little on the stereotypical, trying too hard to be dark side of things, but I liked how he was protective of Rayne and his brother, Wes. He's experienced a lot of emotional trauma in his life and thinks he'll be alone forever, until he finds the person willing to look beyond the mask he presents to the world.
Rayne reminded me of a puppy desperate for attention! It was clear he wanted Hunter's attention on only him, and had done since they were young, but he'd never found a way to come out and say it, even to himself. I liked how Rayne realised there was more to Hunter than everyone else sees, and it was interesting when he was torn between the two brother's and his loyalty to them both.
I do think it was a little anti-climactic when Wes finally found out about his best friend and his brother, and it was brushed over quite quickly. I was hoping for something more along the lines of a Gossip Girl style Dramatic Reveal TM 😂 I did like how the three of them built their relationships in new ways though.
The secret society part of the story really confused me though. To me, a secret society is a society of people who are completely secret... Everyone knows these guys are in the Onyx Society?! It's essentially a glamorous, OTT and stupidly wealthy fraternity with some kooky traditions involving cloaks, candles, and sharing secrets - rather reminiscient of my teenage sleepovers when vampires and witches started getting popular 😂 If it had been portrayed as an upscale fraternity, rather than a secret society, it would have made more sense.
The bad guy plot was interesting and I didn't predict what was going to happen, so that was fun! Although I was super sad that Hunter and Rayne didn't go on their picnic date because it sounded so perfect.
Oliver's book is up next, and the set up was definitely intriguing. I'm convinced there's more going on with him than we've seen so far, he just comes across as super sketchy to me so I can't wait to see what happens.
*****
I received an ARC of this book from Raleigh Ruebins, and this is my honest review
October 13, 2025
Dark Little Game is a fun and mildly angsty romance between Hunter and Rayne. They are both in a complex position as Rayne is best friends with Hunter's brother. This alongside physical threats adds a great amount of tension throughout the story. Overall the tension is well placed throughout the story added with the forbidden nature of the relationship which was well done. I enjoyed this story and think it sets up the series in a great way to keep you interested and invested.
** I reviewed a complimentary copy of this story.***
** I reviewed a complimentary copy of this story.***
October 29, 2025
Tropes: grumpy/sunshine, best friend's brother, forced proximity (roommates)
Feels: 3.5/5
Steam*: 2.5/5
Kinks: rough sex, choking during oral, smacking/pain kink
Angst: low
HEA: HEA
Pairing: MM
Triggers/potential icks/content warnings/representation: past death of a sibling via drowning, emotionally and physically abusive father, violence
Cheating between MCs: No
Any cheating: in the opening pages, Rayne catches his ex boyfriend cheating on him.
Other person drama: Rayne dumps a cheating boyfriend during the first couple of pages. But other than that, neither of the MCs are interested or with anyone else during this book.
4 stars
Rayne comes from a poor family and became best friends with Weston as a kid. Weston is from a rich family and he's helped Rayne out over the years financially a little. They are in college and they are part of a elite frat / secret society. Rayne has always had a little crush on Weston's one year older brother, Hunter, who is a dark, grumpy, friendless, violent shadowy character. Hunter has been in London for the last year working for a Mafia family that he stumbled into working for. He's running away from s*** there and he's elbowed into coming home and joining the Frat too. He ends up rooming with Rayne.
Rayne wants to make a stir after catching his boyfriend cheating on him at a party, so he kisses the hot new guy (Hunter) that has everyone's attention. Hunter had previously identified as straight, but Rayne triggers something in him by appealing to his dark kinks that they have in common. And Hunter is keen to chase the high with Rayne. Hunter and his brother Weston have a very antagonistic relationship because their father who is a horrible person, pitted them against each other all their lives. They don't really want to come out to Weston about what they're doing. They try to hook up in secrets, but they get more into each other and more boyfriendy as time goes on and they got caught. While all this is happening, someone is threatening members of their secret society and there's a danger lurking.
I thought this was a nice read. Seeing Hunter open himself up to trust, be vulnerable, and love had my heart. I liked how possessive Hunter was over Rayne from the start. And I liked how Rayne was a solid guy who gave Hunter what he needed, was there for him. And they had really hot chemistry.
The big mystery was tied up a little too easily and quickly for my tastes. And Hunter's success in the art world at the end was too easy and quick as well, it was unrealistic. I also thought the flashbacks in italics were a little too much, a little too emo and too frequent.
I am looking forward to Ollie's story. He sounds like an interesting character and it sounds like he's got tension with his love interest.
Some notable moments:
"I realize I’m shaking a little as Hunter feels for my hand. He realizes it, too. And then the look in his eyes changes, like he’s getting some satisfaction from this. He likes that I’m trembling. His grip suddenly lands hard on my wrist, yanking me further forward. I feel his other hand land on my jaw, and he cups me there, holding me in place. Staring at me, with rage or… something else. But then he leans in and crushes his lips to mine again. And this time he takes my mouth like he owns me."
The shell over Hunter's heart cracks open. "“You won me a little gift,” I say, running my fingertip along the soft, fuzzy thing. “I know it’s not a knife or some sort of medieval sword, but it’s what I could find,” Rayne says. I roll the little toy over in my hand as a strange feeling hits me. No one’s ever won me a gift before. I can’t even remember the last time I got a gift in general."
"“It’s going to consume me,” I say, my voice coming out shaky. Rayne grips my arm. Steadying me. “Then I’ll rescue you,” he says firmly. “Again. And again. I’ll rescue you from the darkness.”"
*FYI about steam: I rate steam based on a combination of quality & quantity. I note kink separate from steam because I don't want to underrate steamy reads that don't have much kink.
**Note about spoilers: I like to comment on the plot of a book in reviews, so I almost always mark my reviews as containing spoilers. But I try to avoid spoiling the big dramatic moments! As a reader, I personally like to know what I'm getting into before I read a book so I know more about the content and if it's to my taste/mood, so I try to give that information in my reviews for myself when I'm considering rereading and also for other readers.
Feels: 3.5/5
Steam*: 2.5/5
Kinks: rough sex, choking during oral, smacking/pain kink
Angst: low
HEA: HEA
Pairing: MM
Triggers/potential icks/content warnings/representation: past death of a sibling via drowning, emotionally and physically abusive father, violence
Cheating between MCs: No
Any cheating: in the opening pages, Rayne catches his ex boyfriend cheating on him.
Other person drama: Rayne dumps a cheating boyfriend during the first couple of pages. But other than that, neither of the MCs are interested or with anyone else during this book.
4 stars
Rayne comes from a poor family and became best friends with Weston as a kid. Weston is from a rich family and he's helped Rayne out over the years financially a little. They are in college and they are part of a elite frat / secret society. Rayne has always had a little crush on Weston's one year older brother, Hunter, who is a dark, grumpy, friendless, violent shadowy character. Hunter has been in London for the last year working for a Mafia family that he stumbled into working for. He's running away from s*** there and he's elbowed into coming home and joining the Frat too. He ends up rooming with Rayne.
Rayne wants to make a stir after catching his boyfriend cheating on him at a party, so he kisses the hot new guy (Hunter) that has everyone's attention. Hunter had previously identified as straight, but Rayne triggers something in him by appealing to his dark kinks that they have in common. And Hunter is keen to chase the high with Rayne. Hunter and his brother Weston have a very antagonistic relationship because their father who is a horrible person, pitted them against each other all their lives. They don't really want to come out to Weston about what they're doing. They try to hook up in secrets, but they get more into each other and more boyfriendy as time goes on and they got caught. While all this is happening, someone is threatening members of their secret society and there's a danger lurking.
I thought this was a nice read. Seeing Hunter open himself up to trust, be vulnerable, and love had my heart. I liked how possessive Hunter was over Rayne from the start. And I liked how Rayne was a solid guy who gave Hunter what he needed, was there for him. And they had really hot chemistry.
The big mystery was tied up a little too easily and quickly for my tastes. And Hunter's success in the art world at the end was too easy and quick as well, it was unrealistic. I also thought the flashbacks in italics were a little too much, a little too emo and too frequent.
I am looking forward to Ollie's story. He sounds like an interesting character and it sounds like he's got tension with his love interest.
Some notable moments:
"I realize I’m shaking a little as Hunter feels for my hand. He realizes it, too. And then the look in his eyes changes, like he’s getting some satisfaction from this. He likes that I’m trembling. His grip suddenly lands hard on my wrist, yanking me further forward. I feel his other hand land on my jaw, and he cups me there, holding me in place. Staring at me, with rage or… something else. But then he leans in and crushes his lips to mine again. And this time he takes my mouth like he owns me."
The shell over Hunter's heart cracks open. "“You won me a little gift,” I say, running my fingertip along the soft, fuzzy thing. “I know it’s not a knife or some sort of medieval sword, but it’s what I could find,” Rayne says. I roll the little toy over in my hand as a strange feeling hits me. No one’s ever won me a gift before. I can’t even remember the last time I got a gift in general."
"“It’s going to consume me,” I say, my voice coming out shaky. Rayne grips my arm. Steadying me. “Then I’ll rescue you,” he says firmly. “Again. And again. I’ll rescue you from the darkness.”"
*FYI about steam: I rate steam based on a combination of quality & quantity. I note kink separate from steam because I don't want to underrate steamy reads that don't have much kink.
**Note about spoilers: I like to comment on the plot of a book in reviews, so I almost always mark my reviews as containing spoilers. But I try to avoid spoiling the big dramatic moments! As a reader, I personally like to know what I'm getting into before I read a book so I know more about the content and if it's to my taste/mood, so I try to give that information in my reviews for myself when I'm considering rereading and also for other readers.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 19, 2025
3.5 stars
Dark Little Game is book one in the Crimson College series. This MM college dark romance story is about Rayne and Hunter.
Rayne is a sophomore at Crimson College and in a prestigious secret society called Onyx Society. He lives in the Onyx house with other members, including his best friend Weston. Weston’s older brother Hunter is transferring into Crimson College. He will be joining their frat and rooming with Rayne. Weston and Hunter don’t get along, and even Rayne doesn’t know what caused their animosity.
Rayne is the kind of guy that is nice to everyone, popular, but doesn’t come from money. Even though Rayne knows Hunter is straight, he kisses him to make someone jealous. Things start out as a game between Rayne and Hunter, but it eventually turns into something real.
When Rayne is attacked, Hunter wants to protect him and is determined to find out who is behind it all. When we do finally discover who is responsible for the attacks and why, I admit I did not see that coming.
I will say I was looking forward to Hunter being unhinged as well as obsessed with Rayne, but I personally feel like we didn’t get that from him. Hunter was definitely a broken guy struggling with anger and grief. He kept his walls high and tried to push Rayne away, but it was great to see when Hunter finally let Rayne in.
I was surprised with how Weston reacted when he found out Rayne and Hunter were together. I wish more would have come of it. I did find the side characters interesting and I am intrigued to see what comes next in book two.
I received an advanced copy of this book, and this is my honest review.
Dark Little Game is book one in the Crimson College series. This MM college dark romance story is about Rayne and Hunter.
Rayne is a sophomore at Crimson College and in a prestigious secret society called Onyx Society. He lives in the Onyx house with other members, including his best friend Weston. Weston’s older brother Hunter is transferring into Crimson College. He will be joining their frat and rooming with Rayne. Weston and Hunter don’t get along, and even Rayne doesn’t know what caused their animosity.
Rayne is the kind of guy that is nice to everyone, popular, but doesn’t come from money. Even though Rayne knows Hunter is straight, he kisses him to make someone jealous. Things start out as a game between Rayne and Hunter, but it eventually turns into something real.
When Rayne is attacked, Hunter wants to protect him and is determined to find out who is behind it all. When we do finally discover who is responsible for the attacks and why, I admit I did not see that coming.
I will say I was looking forward to Hunter being unhinged as well as obsessed with Rayne, but I personally feel like we didn’t get that from him. Hunter was definitely a broken guy struggling with anger and grief. He kept his walls high and tried to push Rayne away, but it was great to see when Hunter finally let Rayne in.
I was surprised with how Weston reacted when he found out Rayne and Hunter were together. I wish more would have come of it. I did find the side characters interesting and I am intrigued to see what comes next in book two.
I received an advanced copy of this book, and this is my honest review.
October 22, 2025
3 🌟
Rayne and Hunter 🖤
Sooo this one is definitely right in the middle for me. I enjoyed the suspense aspect of it, way more than the romance. But I’m here for the romance, and that’s what I felt was lacking for me.
There was some cringey dialogue, that felt like it was trying too hard to make them seem early 20s. The pace of their relationship seemed off to me also. Sometimes their own inner monologues would be contradictory.
Definitely got whiplash from some of their conversations. For me, the bones were there, but this was a bit of a miss. Several times things were brought up, never to be mentioned again. Or referenced but then there was nothing shown to back it up.
I am intrigued with Oliver’s story. He definitely started to reveal he wasn’t the quiet, awkward wallflower he was in the beginning. I’ll definitely still be checking out his story.
.
.
.
.
‼️⚠️ Potential spoilers ⚠️‼️
Dynamic: MM — vers
Sharing? No
Cheating? No
Breakup? No
Sex scene with OM or OW No, but a few instances of girls being around, kissing cheek etc
‼️⚠️ Content ⚠️‼️
— best friend’s brother
— queer awakening
— breath play
— hurt / comfort
— nightmares
— stalking
— secret society
— roommates
— secret hookups
— mild degradation and praise
— “baby”
— “good boy”
I received an ARC of this book, and this is my honest and voluntary review.
Rayne and Hunter 🖤
Sooo this one is definitely right in the middle for me. I enjoyed the suspense aspect of it, way more than the romance. But I’m here for the romance, and that’s what I felt was lacking for me.
There was some cringey dialogue, that felt like it was trying too hard to make them seem early 20s. The pace of their relationship seemed off to me also. Sometimes their own inner monologues would be contradictory.
Definitely got whiplash from some of their conversations. For me, the bones were there, but this was a bit of a miss. Several times things were brought up, never to be mentioned again. Or referenced but then there was nothing shown to back it up.
I am intrigued with Oliver’s story. He definitely started to reveal he wasn’t the quiet, awkward wallflower he was in the beginning. I’ll definitely still be checking out his story.
.
.
.
.
‼️⚠️ Potential spoilers ⚠️‼️
Dynamic: MM — vers
Sharing? No
Cheating? No
Breakup? No
Sex scene with OM or OW No, but a few instances of girls being around, kissing cheek etc
‼️⚠️ Content ⚠️‼️
— best friend’s brother
— queer awakening
— breath play
— hurt / comfort
— nightmares
— stalking
— secret society
— roommates
— secret hookups
— mild degradation and praise
— “baby”
— “good boy”
I received an ARC of this book, and this is my honest and voluntary review.
October 23, 2025
“I’ll find out who did this. I will end them,” I hear him murmur, and I know I have to be dreaming because for the first time in my life, I feel a strong, unwavering emotion that I’ve never felt toward Hunter Knox. I trust him. And even somewhere in that surreal state, I know how dangerous that is.
I love a good dark, college romance and Raleigh Ruebins has stepped up to the mark with Dark Little Game, which is the first book in the author's Crimson College series of linked standalones, featuring the frat boys of Crimson College and their messed up love lives.
This is Rayne and Hunter's story, and it's a divine tale of broken boys, falling for your best-friend's brother, possessive MCs, secret societies and sinister stalkers.
No surprises to anyone who knows me - I absolutely inhaled it!
What To Expect:
🖤MM college romance
🖤Dark themes
🖤Grief
🖤Best-friend's older brother
🖤Roommates
🖤Stalker vibes
🖤Forced proximity
🖤Bi-awakening
🖤Steamy first times
🖤Opposites attract
🖤"Mine"
🖤HEA
4.25 stars 🌟
I love a good dark, college romance and Raleigh Ruebins has stepped up to the mark with Dark Little Game, which is the first book in the author's Crimson College series of linked standalones, featuring the frat boys of Crimson College and their messed up love lives.
This is Rayne and Hunter's story, and it's a divine tale of broken boys, falling for your best-friend's brother, possessive MCs, secret societies and sinister stalkers.
No surprises to anyone who knows me - I absolutely inhaled it!
What To Expect:
🖤MM college romance
🖤Dark themes
🖤Grief
🖤Best-friend's older brother
🖤Roommates
🖤Stalker vibes
🖤Forced proximity
🖤Bi-awakening
🖤Steamy first times
🖤Opposites attract
🖤"Mine"
🖤HEA
4.25 stars 🌟
December 11, 2025
Overall, this went better for me than my first try with this author.
I enjoyed Hunter and Rayne together, they had really good chemistry. The plot, while a bit OTT for a college setting, was still interesting enough.
It did have me a bit duped for most of it on the big twist near the end, although I did start to suspect a bit before the whole truth was revealed.
I loved how Hunter was so closed off but started to let Rayne in, and Rayne started to become the exception for him.
I guess my only reason for a star off is that while this promised to be a dark romance, it kind of wasn't? It had dark elements, and it felt a bit dark at first, but then it kind of shied away from the elements it had started to lean on?
Like Hunter "stalks" Rayne, but not for long and Rayne is almost fully aware of it while it's happening. Hunter is closed off and an asshole...but inside he's really just a traumatized guy who is more morally gray than just morally bad. He's never killed anyone, although he's been close, he can beat someone up but he tries all the time to reign it in, he has legit trauma that makes it make sense why he's that way, so the more he receives love from Rayne, the less "dark" he gets, it felt.
By the end of this Hunter almost felt normal and well adjusted. Which is fine, if this is meant to be a regular romance and not, you know, a dark one - which, it is advertised as such and while it has elements of it, it doesn't fully lean into it.
When get almost nothing with this mafia element, although we hear about it, and that's tied up neat as a pin with a lot of telling and not much showing.
Hunter is into seemingly very rough sex - and Rayne comes to learn about himself that he likes some roughness too - and we even get warned in the beginning for some sadism and there was almost none of that.
Like I think they kinda bite each other a bit, there's some slapping a time or two, and talk of being tied up (although we never see it) and that's about it?
Their sex is hot and overall well done, but fairly normal? While I enjoyed it, it didn't really deliver on the warnings we were given in the beginning of the book.
I didn't give too much off for all that because I still enjoyed this overall. The beginning, especially, when it was actually leaning into some dark elements, had me enthralled, so this definitely gets points for all that. And the chemistry was quite good once these two really got into it.
It just could have fully leaned into things, in my opinion, to really give this a dark romance vibe. I've read darker romance books than this, though, even ones with a college setting.
I also wish we got *more* sex scenes than we got. We got a few non-penetrative before their first penetrative one (which, I feel like it should have been Hunter topping, not bottoming. That kinda came outta nowhere imo) and a rushed one later on, but other than that...not much. The last part of this especially lacked in sex scenes. I enjoyed these two together so much I would have liked more.
All that to say, I am excited to delve into the next one with Hunter's half brother Niko and Oliver, the sweet freshmen we met in this one. This book was definitely overall an improvement from my first read by this author. Just a few tweaks here and there and it could have been a 5 star read.
Definitely will be tuning into the next book in this series, though. Can't wait! 😘
I enjoyed Hunter and Rayne together, they had really good chemistry. The plot, while a bit OTT for a college setting, was still interesting enough.
It did have me a bit duped for most of it on the big twist near the end, although I did start to suspect a bit before the whole truth was revealed.
I loved how Hunter was so closed off but started to let Rayne in, and Rayne started to become the exception for him.
I guess my only reason for a star off is that while this promised to be a dark romance, it kind of wasn't? It had dark elements, and it felt a bit dark at first, but then it kind of shied away from the elements it had started to lean on?
Like Hunter "stalks" Rayne, but not for long and Rayne is almost fully aware of it while it's happening. Hunter is closed off and an asshole...but inside he's really just a traumatized guy who is more morally gray than just morally bad. He's never killed anyone, although he's been close, he can beat someone up but he tries all the time to reign it in, he has legit trauma that makes it make sense why he's that way, so the more he receives love from Rayne, the less "dark" he gets, it felt.
By the end of this Hunter almost felt normal and well adjusted. Which is fine, if this is meant to be a regular romance and not, you know, a dark one - which, it is advertised as such and while it has elements of it, it doesn't fully lean into it.
When get almost nothing with this mafia element, although we hear about it, and that's tied up neat as a pin with a lot of telling and not much showing.
Hunter is into seemingly very rough sex - and Rayne comes to learn about himself that he likes some roughness too - and we even get warned in the beginning for some sadism and there was almost none of that.
Like I think they kinda bite each other a bit, there's some slapping a time or two, and talk of being tied up (although we never see it) and that's about it?
Their sex is hot and overall well done, but fairly normal? While I enjoyed it, it didn't really deliver on the warnings we were given in the beginning of the book.
I didn't give too much off for all that because I still enjoyed this overall. The beginning, especially, when it was actually leaning into some dark elements, had me enthralled, so this definitely gets points for all that. And the chemistry was quite good once these two really got into it.
It just could have fully leaned into things, in my opinion, to really give this a dark romance vibe. I've read darker romance books than this, though, even ones with a college setting.
I also wish we got *more* sex scenes than we got. We got a few non-penetrative before their first penetrative one (which, I feel like it should have been Hunter topping, not bottoming. That kinda came outta nowhere imo) and a rushed one later on, but other than that...not much. The last part of this especially lacked in sex scenes. I enjoyed these two together so much I would have liked more.
All that to say, I am excited to delve into the next one with Hunter's half brother Niko and Oliver, the sweet freshmen we met in this one. This book was definitely overall an improvement from my first read by this author. Just a few tweaks here and there and it could have been a 5 star read.
Definitely will be tuning into the next book in this series, though. Can't wait! 😘
![Profile Image for Megan [At The Cottage].](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.gr-assets.com%2Fimages%2FS%2Fcompressed.photo.goodreads.com%2Fusers%2F1634561405i%2F25103878._UY200_CR50%2C0%2C200%2C200_.jpg&w=128&q=75)
November 16, 2025
MM Romance
Faux Hate To Love
2.5 Stars ⭐️
This was underwhelming. Sigh 😔 I think this is the first time this author has done dark romance and it shows. I read somewhere recently that the term “dark romance” has become a spectrum with most books being quite watered down compared to 5+ years ago. Most books that fall under this genre are more like mild dark reads with the darker ones being called erotic horror. So while I think this would be a great intro to darker books, it’s not really what I was looking for when I read “secret society” in the blurb. This was especially true when the secret societies were 4 different houses because it just made it seem like frats especially with everyone on campus aware of all 4 because they are side by side. So it’s just like Greek row? I don’t know 🤷🏻♀️ It didn’t work for me. So why did I keep reading this?
Rayne and Hunter’s dynamic worked for me initially. They didn’t like each other and especially Rayne was not excited when they were back in each other’s orbit. The way this was written made it seem like Hunter was morally gray which intrigued me especially when I learned about his time in London. Hunter also seemed to have a lot of anger and I love hand necklaces therefore I enjoyed the pull between them. Rayne seemed like he’d be a doormat of sorts but he held his own against Hunter and I enjoyed that. However, around 35% this book became kind of corny especially the relationship between them. They definitely gave into the other too fast and I saw none of this so-called hate or animosity from the first couple chapters.
What kept me reading was actually the mystery aspect of the book which was so dumb once everything was revealed. I actually didn’t know who the culprit was so well done author although I did read this while sleep deprived so it might have just gone over my head. Maybe it was obvious 😂 What came next was some weird summarized chapters and it was just so underwhelming. I would have liked to see what happened to some of the characters on page because the karma would have been nice but it almost felt like the author didn’t know how to end this book. I think this concept would have been stronger if this series had a continuing storyline that weaved through all the books instead of this boring conclusion. 🤷🏻♀️
But I’m giving this 2 stars because it held my attention just enough that I was able to finish it and some of the sex scenes were hot. Loved the book nook scene but would have loved some more rough sex between them to really sell this idea that they hated each other.
All that said, my masochistic ass will most likely pick up the next one because I was interested in the other characters. 🙄😂 I’ll just go into it with lowered expectations.
Faux Hate To Love
2.5 Stars ⭐️
This was underwhelming. Sigh 😔 I think this is the first time this author has done dark romance and it shows. I read somewhere recently that the term “dark romance” has become a spectrum with most books being quite watered down compared to 5+ years ago. Most books that fall under this genre are more like mild dark reads with the darker ones being called erotic horror. So while I think this would be a great intro to darker books, it’s not really what I was looking for when I read “secret society” in the blurb. This was especially true when the secret societies were 4 different houses because it just made it seem like frats especially with everyone on campus aware of all 4 because they are side by side. So it’s just like Greek row? I don’t know 🤷🏻♀️ It didn’t work for me. So why did I keep reading this?
Rayne and Hunter’s dynamic worked for me initially. They didn’t like each other and especially Rayne was not excited when they were back in each other’s orbit. The way this was written made it seem like Hunter was morally gray which intrigued me especially when I learned about his time in London. Hunter also seemed to have a lot of anger and I love hand necklaces therefore I enjoyed the pull between them. Rayne seemed like he’d be a doormat of sorts but he held his own against Hunter and I enjoyed that. However, around 35% this book became kind of corny especially the relationship between them. They definitely gave into the other too fast and I saw none of this so-called hate or animosity from the first couple chapters.
What kept me reading was actually the mystery aspect of the book which was so dumb once everything was revealed. I actually didn’t know who the culprit was so well done author although I did read this while sleep deprived so it might have just gone over my head. Maybe it was obvious 😂 What came next was some weird summarized chapters and it was just so underwhelming. I would have liked to see what happened to some of the characters on page because the karma would have been nice but it almost felt like the author didn’t know how to end this book. I think this concept would have been stronger if this series had a continuing storyline that weaved through all the books instead of this boring conclusion. 🤷🏻♀️
But I’m giving this 2 stars because it held my attention just enough that I was able to finish it and some of the sex scenes were hot. Loved the book nook scene but would have loved some more rough sex between them to really sell this idea that they hated each other.
All that said, my masochistic ass will most likely pick up the next one because I was interested in the other characters. 🙄😂 I’ll just go into it with lowered expectations.
October 31, 2025
Rating: 4/5 🌟
Spice: 3.5/5 🌶️
Characters: Rayne and Hunter
Spice: 3.5/5 🌶️
Characters: Rayne and Hunter
October 21, 2025
ARC Review
*mild spoilers ahead*
⭐⭐⭐,5
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Okay, so I’m a little conflicted about this one. I really liked a lot of things, but there were a couple that left me scratching my head.
I’ll start with the good. The overall plot was interesting, the idea of a secret society, , with all the legacy stuff was super intriguing, the problem was that in this story it was basically a glorified fraternity. The smut scenes were enticing, and there was enough chemistry between the main characters to make it believable.
The best part was the plot twist. I usually can guess these things pretty early, but this time it really caught me off guard. The “villain” wasn’t at all who I expected, but it actually made sense.
So yeah, the concept was great. I was just a bit underwhelmed by the execution. The writing felt all over the place at times, and the dialogue was weird in some passages. Some phrases left me kind of confused.
The characters were a little cliché. Hunter and his whole “I’m a bad boy, leave me alone” attitude was pretty stereotypical. It was a lot of talk and not much action, we were led to believe he did a bunch of bad things while he was abroad, but basically, he was just hiding.
Rayne, on the other hand, had this hot-and-cold thing going on that got old fast. He’d flirt, then try to pull away. Come on, make a choice, dude. And all the “Royal” and “King” stuff, I would’ve gotten it from Wes or Hunter, who were actually legacies, but Rayne’s just trying to make a better life for himself and his mom, coming from poverty. Yet he suddenly acts super arrogant, taking on this upstart persona with no real merit except that he wants it? I don’t know, it rubbed me the wrong way.
Finally, Weston, what the heck? He basically lied and made Hunter take the blame for his mess-ups their whole life, then acted like he was the wronged brother? I really disliked him. And my last complain, I was disappointed that the conflict just magically disappeared at the end. No conversations, nothing.
In conclusion, great premise, okay execution. If you’re into college romance and enemies-to-lovers stories, you’ll probably enjoy it.
---
I received an ARC of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
*mild spoilers ahead*
⭐⭐⭐,5
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Okay, so I’m a little conflicted about this one. I really liked a lot of things, but there were a couple that left me scratching my head.
I’ll start with the good. The overall plot was interesting, the idea of a secret society, , with all the legacy stuff was super intriguing, the problem was that in this story it was basically a glorified fraternity. The smut scenes were enticing, and there was enough chemistry between the main characters to make it believable.
The best part was the plot twist. I usually can guess these things pretty early, but this time it really caught me off guard. The “villain” wasn’t at all who I expected, but it actually made sense.
So yeah, the concept was great. I was just a bit underwhelmed by the execution. The writing felt all over the place at times, and the dialogue was weird in some passages. Some phrases left me kind of confused.
The characters were a little cliché. Hunter and his whole “I’m a bad boy, leave me alone” attitude was pretty stereotypical. It was a lot of talk and not much action, we were led to believe he did a bunch of bad things while he was abroad, but basically, he was just hiding.
Rayne, on the other hand, had this hot-and-cold thing going on that got old fast. He’d flirt, then try to pull away. Come on, make a choice, dude. And all the “Royal” and “King” stuff, I would’ve gotten it from Wes or Hunter, who were actually legacies, but Rayne’s just trying to make a better life for himself and his mom, coming from poverty. Yet he suddenly acts super arrogant, taking on this upstart persona with no real merit except that he wants it? I don’t know, it rubbed me the wrong way.
Finally, Weston, what the heck? He basically lied and made Hunter take the blame for his mess-ups their whole life, then acted like he was the wronged brother? I really disliked him. And my last complain, I was disappointed that the conflict just magically disappeared at the end. No conversations, nothing.
In conclusion, great premise, okay execution. If you’re into college romance and enemies-to-lovers stories, you’ll probably enjoy it.
---
I received an ARC of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
dnf
October 31, 2025This is corny as heck. Should have known from the fuck boy in a wifebeater tank top on the cover
November 14, 2025
Some may say this book has a few plot holes, but you know what? I don't care because I loved it. I was looking for something dark and this was exactly what I felt like reading.
The MCs were supposed to hate each other, but there had always been something going on between them even though no word had ever been mentioned before. Rayne kissed Hunter out of spite when he caught his boyfriend cheating on him and Hunter became obsessed over Rayne.
I liked how their relationship evolved from something purely physical into so much more, despite Hunter's reluctance to admit his feelings. It's true that I was expecting this to be darker and Hunter seemed a bit psychotic at the beginning, but it turned out he was just a broken boy.
I didn't understand why the organization they were part of was called "secret" when, in my opinion, it was just another fraternity. To be honest, it didn't really bother me, I wondered about it, shrugged and carried on reading.
There was some suspense from someone attacking members of their society and I never guessed who was behind it all, so that was good. Then, Hunter's brother got on my nerves at times, but he didn't really play a big role in the story or that's how I felt towards him.
Overall, a good read that I enjoyed. An imperfect story that I liked very much, it was entertaining and I loved the characters. Other people might disagree, seeing the reviews, but it was an imperfectly perfect book for me and that's what I care about.
The MCs were supposed to hate each other, but there had always been something going on between them even though no word had ever been mentioned before. Rayne kissed Hunter out of spite when he caught his boyfriend cheating on him and Hunter became obsessed over Rayne.
I liked how their relationship evolved from something purely physical into so much more, despite Hunter's reluctance to admit his feelings. It's true that I was expecting this to be darker and Hunter seemed a bit psychotic at the beginning, but it turned out he was just a broken boy.
I didn't understand why the organization they were part of was called "secret" when, in my opinion, it was just another fraternity. To be honest, it didn't really bother me, I wondered about it, shrugged and carried on reading.
There was some suspense from someone attacking members of their society and I never guessed who was behind it all, so that was good. Then, Hunter's brother got on my nerves at times, but he didn't really play a big role in the story or that's how I felt towards him.
Overall, a good read that I enjoyed. An imperfect story that I liked very much, it was entertaining and I loved the characters. Other people might disagree, seeing the reviews, but it was an imperfectly perfect book for me and that's what I care about.
October 23, 2025
This book contains some darker topics, so please check the tw-list before reading.
Whew, this was an intense one. Have you ever thought about what would happen at an elite college, where secret societies exist and dangerous people make the rules? A place where you don’t certainly know who you can trust and especially, can love? All these types of things are part of the every day life of these boys 💥
Rayne has a best friend, who happensto be the brother of Hunter. Hunter, who is know for his calculating, dangerous ways. Who lets no one near him. In a moment of a bit of craziness, Rayne makes a move towards Hunter, not knowing what may happen after that. That's when things get unpredictably explosive for both of them.
I gotta say, I was majorly hooked by the story of this book, not knowing where it would lead next. And I love that kind of book 😏
It was very well written and it felt like watching a movie at times.
I need to know what happens in part 2 now 🥰
Whew, this was an intense one. Have you ever thought about what would happen at an elite college, where secret societies exist and dangerous people make the rules? A place where you don’t certainly know who you can trust and especially, can love? All these types of things are part of the every day life of these boys 💥
Rayne has a best friend, who happensto be the brother of Hunter. Hunter, who is know for his calculating, dangerous ways. Who lets no one near him. In a moment of a bit of craziness, Rayne makes a move towards Hunter, not knowing what may happen after that. That's when things get unpredictably explosive for both of them.
I gotta say, I was majorly hooked by the story of this book, not knowing where it would lead next. And I love that kind of book 😏
It was very well written and it felt like watching a movie at times.
I need to know what happens in part 2 now 🥰
November 14, 2025
5 ⭐️
Wow! This one was kinda cray cray. I will say I kinda felt like their relationship was moving so fast.. but I honestly didn’t mind it. The way Hunter took it upon himself to protect Rayne really made me giggle at times. Like it was so funny to see him get all serious about it, especially when Rayne was like stop and he was dead serious when he told him no. Also, Hunter being the first to bottom was crazy to me, I was not expecting that at all. And the way he was so obsessed with Rayne and so affectionate was the cutest thing ever.
Wow! This one was kinda cray cray. I will say I kinda felt like their relationship was moving so fast.. but I honestly didn’t mind it. The way Hunter took it upon himself to protect Rayne really made me giggle at times. Like it was so funny to see him get all serious about it, especially when Rayne was like stop and he was dead serious when he told him no. Also, Hunter being the first to bottom was crazy to me, I was not expecting that at all. And the way he was so obsessed with Rayne and so affectionate was the cutest thing ever.
December 6, 2025
This was fun! It's been on my TBR for a bit and I'm glad I final got to sit and read it. I loved Rayne and Hunter together. Their banter was fun and Hunter's need to protect was sweet and obsessive. Only kinda saw the twist coming, I totally missed part of it. I'm excited to jump into book 2! 🖤❤️🖤
December 19, 2025
“You’re right when you say I shouldn’t fall for you,” he says, stroking my hair like he’s holding something precious. “But I did fall for you. I still am. Tell me you’re fucked up, tell me you’re broken, and I’m still going to be here with you.”
^ Page 276.
I liked this book, but I also felt like every time they tried confessing their feelings for each other or having any conversation it had to include a blowjob. (They only have sex once but didn't count the blowjobs)
I did feel bad for Hunter after knowing how much trauma he had. It goes from losing his sister, to his mother walking out on him, his dad being an asshole, his dad abusing his younger brother and making him watch, his dad being perfectly okay with Hunter being killed, and finishing with him having a half brother he never knew about. Kinda like a huge trauma dump.
Whereas Rayne has a loving mother and she's poor. That's it. He never met his dad.
The last few chapters kinda felt underwhelming as we never actually saw Wes and Rayne strengthen their friendship again, yet it was also overwhelming with how much drama there was. Then the epilogue was sweet as it showed Hunter's art exhibition and how far he's come (unrelated but I ran one of those last week!)
Final note: Hunter is a year older than Rayne and Weston but we have actually get told their ages. We just know they're under 25. I'm not American either so I'm not sure what sophomore in college means as in the UK we have a different education system.
“I like knowing that you’re mine,” he says. “You’re mine when you’re fucking my mouth, or when you’re in class, or when you’re out playing football. You’re mine every time my brother looks at us. I’m going to protect you from whoever is after you, and it’ll be easier if you just accept that.”
^ Page 161.
^ Page 276.
I liked this book, but I also felt like every time they tried confessing their feelings for each other or having any conversation it had to include a blowjob. (They only have sex once but didn't count the blowjobs)
I did feel bad for Hunter after knowing how much trauma he had. It goes from losing his sister, to his mother walking out on him, his dad being an asshole, his dad abusing his younger brother and making him watch, his dad being perfectly okay with Hunter being killed, and finishing with him having a half brother he never knew about. Kinda like a huge trauma dump.
Whereas Rayne has a loving mother and she's poor. That's it. He never met his dad.
The last few chapters kinda felt underwhelming as we never actually saw Wes and Rayne strengthen their friendship again, yet it was also overwhelming with how much drama there was. Then the epilogue was sweet as it showed Hunter's art exhibition and how far he's come (unrelated but I ran one of those last week!)
Final note: Hunter is a year older than Rayne and Weston but we have actually get told their ages. We just know they're under 25. I'm not American either so I'm not sure what sophomore in college means as in the UK we have a different education system.
“I like knowing that you’re mine,” he says. “You’re mine when you’re fucking my mouth, or when you’re in class, or when you’re out playing football. You’re mine every time my brother looks at us. I’m going to protect you from whoever is after you, and it’ll be easier if you just accept that.”
^ Page 161.
October 24, 2025
Review for (Crimson College-1) Dark Little Game by Raleigh Ruebins
Secret society frats
Psychopaths
Stalkerish
Obsession
Another new author for me. I love finding new authors that write wonderful stories; sign me up lol. I found this book gripping and dark, with some violence and psychopaths is my type of book. Hunter is his best friend's brother who is just a little crackers, but in a good way. Add in a secret society frat, and oh boy, things are about to go very wrong. All Rayne wanted to do after seeing his partner kissing someone else was to show him how it feels by kissing Hunter. Oh boy, was he asking for it. I loved how these two men grew in their relationship with themselves, with each of them being in each other's life. I loved how Raleigh wrote the plot and twists and turns, the best type. I feel like I have been so lucky with the many new authors I have gotten to review to add to my authors I love. I need to check what else this author writes next and their past ones.
Nicole Harvey
Secret society frats
Psychopaths
Stalkerish
Obsession
Another new author for me. I love finding new authors that write wonderful stories; sign me up lol. I found this book gripping and dark, with some violence and psychopaths is my type of book. Hunter is his best friend's brother who is just a little crackers, but in a good way. Add in a secret society frat, and oh boy, things are about to go very wrong. All Rayne wanted to do after seeing his partner kissing someone else was to show him how it feels by kissing Hunter. Oh boy, was he asking for it. I loved how these two men grew in their relationship with themselves, with each of them being in each other's life. I loved how Raleigh wrote the plot and twists and turns, the best type. I feel like I have been so lucky with the many new authors I have gotten to review to add to my authors I love. I need to check what else this author writes next and their past ones.
Nicole Harvey
November 11, 2025
Okay… so I was really hyped for Dark Little Game.. this was one of my most anticipated reads. But honestly? It kinda flopped for me. To be fair, If i could give 2.5 stars on here i would..
The concept sounded amazing and I thought the romance had so much potential, but everything.. the plot, the characters, the relationships.. just felt unfinished.
The main characters, Rayne and Weston, were supposed to be super likable and the golden boys, but I just couldn’t get into them. They felt flat, and even when we got Weston’s big emotional backstory, I was like… okay? That’s random.. I wanted to care, but I just didn’t.
And then Hunter’s backstory came along and it was somehow even more confusing, like it was thrown in as a dramatic plot and never really developed.
And don’t even get me started on the romance. Hunter and Rayne’s connection was so underwhelming. No tension, no real build-up, no sparks. I don’t need insta-love or crazy drama, but give me something that makes me root for them! It just felt bland the whole time.
I had to really push myself to keep reading, there were a few little moments where I thought i saw potential, but overall? Not the worst book ever, but definitely not something I’d reread.
The concept sounded amazing and I thought the romance had so much potential, but everything.. the plot, the characters, the relationships.. just felt unfinished.
The main characters, Rayne and Weston, were supposed to be super likable and the golden boys, but I just couldn’t get into them. They felt flat, and even when we got Weston’s big emotional backstory, I was like… okay? That’s random.. I wanted to care, but I just didn’t.
And then Hunter’s backstory came along and it was somehow even more confusing, like it was thrown in as a dramatic plot and never really developed.
And don’t even get me started on the romance. Hunter and Rayne’s connection was so underwhelming. No tension, no real build-up, no sparks. I don’t need insta-love or crazy drama, but give me something that makes me root for them! It just felt bland the whole time.
I had to really push myself to keep reading, there were a few little moments where I thought i saw potential, but overall? Not the worst book ever, but definitely not something I’d reread.
October 30, 2025
When Rayne gets cheated on his idea of revenge is to kiss his best friend's brother. There's a few problems with this plan though - 1) Hunter isn't gay, 2) he's Rayne's new roommate, oh and 3) Hunter is a psycho.
It goes from one kiss to "you kissed me so I own you" and Rayne's not not into it. But he doesn't want his best friend to find out so this leads to a lot of sneaky hookups in semi-public places like a deserted floor of the library or the frat house lounge while everyone else is outside. It's super spicy and exciting - not to mention that other members of the frat are seemingly being targeted and while no one has died yet who knows how long that will be the case. Hunter is determined to keep Rayne safe so naturally he stalks him around campus.
Definitely a fantastic spicy read for autumn. If you love obsessive unhinged MCs this one is for you!
It goes from one kiss to "you kissed me so I own you" and Rayne's not not into it. But he doesn't want his best friend to find out so this leads to a lot of sneaky hookups in semi-public places like a deserted floor of the library or the frat house lounge while everyone else is outside. It's super spicy and exciting - not to mention that other members of the frat are seemingly being targeted and while no one has died yet who knows how long that will be the case. Hunter is determined to keep Rayne safe so naturally he stalks him around campus.
Definitely a fantastic spicy read for autumn. If you love obsessive unhinged MCs this one is for you!
October 15, 2025
Absolutely loved.
All I can safely say about this book is that you should be ready. It gets hot, messy and swoony. You will be surprised, shocked, sympathetic and enjoying some darker than dark urges these characters have.
Don't miss out on this banger. You will be glued to this book 'til it finishes.
*quietly adds to her favorites*
All I can safely say about this book is that you should be ready. It gets hot, messy and swoony. You will be surprised, shocked, sympathetic and enjoying some darker than dark urges these characters have.
Don't miss out on this banger. You will be glued to this book 'til it finishes.
*quietly adds to her favorites*
November 21, 2025
This book had good storyline. I couldn't put it down. A good flow and a captivating mystery. It was elite college YA with sexy stuff, drama, and passion added. In theory, it could have been much darker.
Will definitely be reading the next book👍🔥
Will definitely be reading the next book👍🔥
October 18, 2025
Dark Little Game by Raleigh Ruebins is the first book in a new dark academia series. Rayne is in his second year of college and feels like the big man on campus until his best friend’s twin brother shows up. Hunter and Rayne have always had a contentious relationship and hate each other. I loved the way that they were introduced to each other and how that started Hunter thinking of Rayne in a different way. I was expecting a little more darkness. Hunter and Rayne became very sweet and I wanted a little more stalking- lol. But I did enjoy this one a lot and am looking forward to where the author takes us next. I am very excited to see Oliver’s story is next.
I received an ARC from GRR for my honest review.
I received an ARC from GRR for my honest review.
October 29, 2025
I really liked this book and was hooked from the start. This is my first book from this author and they did not disappoint. I’m looking forward to Oliver’s book next that’s for sure.
October 23, 2025
4 ⭐️ 3🌶
best friends brother
Enemies to lovers
Possessive
ARC READ: Interesting start to a new dark mm romance. This was well written. My only complaint and maybe it will be fixed for actual release is the text messaging in the story blends together, making it a little hard to read. I'm looking forward to Oliver's story and hope Weston gets his own as well.
best friends brother
Enemies to lovers
Possessive
ARC READ: Interesting start to a new dark mm romance. This was well written. My only complaint and maybe it will be fixed for actual release is the text messaging in the story blends together, making it a little hard to read. I'm looking forward to Oliver's story and hope Weston gets his own as well.
December 5, 2025
* Arc Review
I HAVE SO MANY THOUGHTS.
After their moment at the party despite Hunter trying to never vulnerable to anyone. I like how his walls slowly start to crumble throughout the story with Rayne. And I was so giddy to see Hunter and Weston working out their differences to build that brotherly bond that was taken from them during their childhood.
ALSO, the main twist?! OMG. I did not see that coming at all. I suspected someone but that through me for a loop. AND THEN another plot twist after that?! JAW ON THE FLOOR.
I can’t wait for the next story and to hopefully see more of Rayne and Hunter and to see the story of Ollie and Niko unravel.
- TROPES
🖤 “Straight” MMC (bi-awakening)
🖤 Brothers Bsf
🖤 Touch him and 💀
🖤 Dark Romance
🖤 Secret Society
🖤 Stalking
🖤 Possessive
🖤 College setting
🖤 Hate to Lovers
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
I HAVE SO MANY THOUGHTS.
After their moment at the party despite Hunter trying to never vulnerable to anyone. I like how his walls slowly start to crumble throughout the story with Rayne. And I was so giddy to see Hunter and Weston working out their differences to build that brotherly bond that was taken from them during their childhood.
ALSO, the main twist?! OMG. I did not see that coming at all. I suspected someone but that through me for a loop. AND THEN another plot twist after that?! JAW ON THE FLOOR.
I can’t wait for the next story and to hopefully see more of Rayne and Hunter and to see the story of Ollie and Niko unravel.
- TROPES
🖤 “Straight” MMC (bi-awakening)
🖤 Brothers Bsf
🖤 Touch him and 💀
🖤 Dark Romance
🖤 Secret Society
🖤 Stalking
🖤 Possessive
🖤 College setting
🖤 Hate to Lovers
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 3, 2025
This is very different than the previous books I’d read by this author. I love dark romances, especially in a college setting, and this was a good one! Love the forbidden aspect of best friend’s brother and the whole not-really-secret society/fraternity thing. I love how Rayne was really able to see past Hunter’s masks and how Hunter gave Rayne the attention he needed. Sign me up for the next book!
November 6, 2025
I had a really hard time rating this book. I didn’t feel like it deserved all 4 stars, but I didn’t think it deserved less than 3 either.
I went into this book, thinking it would be a dark book. In my opinion, I didn’t think it was dark at all. I also thought the relationship aspect of it would be dark and again in my opinion, I didn’t find it to be dark at all.
This book honestly felt a little chaotic to me. It felt kind of all over the place and like it wasn’t sure which direction it wanted to go. Hunter‘s character seemed erratic. It seemed like he kept changing his mind about things and I couldn’t get a good read on him. The relationship aspect of the book wasn’t really my favorite and the plot wasn’t great as well. Both of the characters were fine, but I couldn’t say that I loved either of them.
There was so many things left open and unanswered that I don’t even think would be answered in other books. Rayne seemed to be very close with his mom with the way that he spoke about her but we never even meet her or have him speak to her at all during this entire book. We don’t even know why Hunter left London. Something went down with the crime Family he was working for, but we never get answered as to actually what happened between him and the crime family. Hunter and his brother Wes, who is Raynes best friend have a terrible relationship and once they do get over it in the end we never see them discuss about anything about their relationship or how they’re going to move on in the future or the past and how they hated each other for so long. Hunters bi awakening also seemed very unrealistic, though some book I’ve read have this aspect his just seemed weird and I wish it was talked about more. His obsession with finding out who was targeting Rayne was weird. It didn’t make sense as to why he was so obsessed with finding out who was trying to hurt Rayne. This was before they even got together.
The only thing I guess I liked was that when Wes did find out about Rayne and Hunter’s relationship, even though he was upset, he didn’t make either of them stop seeing the other and Rayne or Hunter didn’t immediately wanna call it off with each other.
Okay so OP drama. Other people drama left me scratching my head. One of the main reasons that Rayne and Hunter get together in the first place was because Rayne found his boyfriend cheating on him at a party so he kissed Hunter to get back at him. After this happens, we never see or hear about the ex-boyfriend ever again and it felt so unsatisfying. Also, there’s a part where Hunter is walking down the college row and some girls stop him and take a picture with him for a scavenger hunt and kiss him on the cheek and bite him on the earlobe and post these pictures and I was thinking something was gonna come of it like Rayne being jealous and being angry at Hunter, but nothing ever comes of it, but it seemed like it would because it was made as to be a big deal and nothing even happened from it.
All in all this book was honestly unsatisfying with too many unanswered questions and too many things left open and things that were brought up and went nowhere. Even though I didn’t really like it, I may read the next book because Ollie is a virgin and he gets together with his high school rival so we will see.
NO CHEATING BETWEEN CHARACTERS
NO REAL OP DRAMA
NO THIRD ACT BREAK UP
NO VIRGINS (hunter gave me manwhore vibes but he only wanted Rayne in this book)
HFN
I went into this book, thinking it would be a dark book. In my opinion, I didn’t think it was dark at all. I also thought the relationship aspect of it would be dark and again in my opinion, I didn’t find it to be dark at all.
This book honestly felt a little chaotic to me. It felt kind of all over the place and like it wasn’t sure which direction it wanted to go. Hunter‘s character seemed erratic. It seemed like he kept changing his mind about things and I couldn’t get a good read on him. The relationship aspect of the book wasn’t really my favorite and the plot wasn’t great as well. Both of the characters were fine, but I couldn’t say that I loved either of them.
There was so many things left open and unanswered that I don’t even think would be answered in other books. Rayne seemed to be very close with his mom with the way that he spoke about her but we never even meet her or have him speak to her at all during this entire book. We don’t even know why Hunter left London. Something went down with the crime Family he was working for, but we never get answered as to actually what happened between him and the crime family. Hunter and his brother Wes, who is Raynes best friend have a terrible relationship and once they do get over it in the end we never see them discuss about anything about their relationship or how they’re going to move on in the future or the past and how they hated each other for so long. Hunters bi awakening also seemed very unrealistic, though some book I’ve read have this aspect his just seemed weird and I wish it was talked about more. His obsession with finding out who was targeting Rayne was weird. It didn’t make sense as to why he was so obsessed with finding out who was trying to hurt Rayne. This was before they even got together.
The only thing I guess I liked was that when Wes did find out about Rayne and Hunter’s relationship, even though he was upset, he didn’t make either of them stop seeing the other and Rayne or Hunter didn’t immediately wanna call it off with each other.
Okay so OP drama. Other people drama left me scratching my head. One of the main reasons that Rayne and Hunter get together in the first place was because Rayne found his boyfriend cheating on him at a party so he kissed Hunter to get back at him. After this happens, we never see or hear about the ex-boyfriend ever again and it felt so unsatisfying. Also, there’s a part where Hunter is walking down the college row and some girls stop him and take a picture with him for a scavenger hunt and kiss him on the cheek and bite him on the earlobe and post these pictures and I was thinking something was gonna come of it like Rayne being jealous and being angry at Hunter, but nothing ever comes of it, but it seemed like it would because it was made as to be a big deal and nothing even happened from it.
All in all this book was honestly unsatisfying with too many unanswered questions and too many things left open and things that were brought up and went nowhere. Even though I didn’t really like it, I may read the next book because Ollie is a virgin and he gets together with his high school rival so we will see.
NO CHEATING BETWEEN CHARACTERS
NO REAL OP DRAMA
NO THIRD ACT BREAK UP
NO VIRGINS (hunter gave me manwhore vibes but he only wanted Rayne in this book)
HFN
October 31, 2025
I honestly didn’t know what to expect when I started Dark Little Game. I’d seen the cover floating around and people talking about how “intense” it was, but I went in blind. A few chapters in, and I was completely gone.
Ruebins has this addictive way of writing that pulls you right into the tension — that slow, dangerous kind of chemistry that builds until you can feel it buzzing under your skin. Rayne and Hunter? Absolute chaos. But the kind of chaos that makes your chest ache because you know there’s something real hiding underneath all the hate and lust.
Rayne is the scholarship kid surrounded by rich people at Crimson College. He’s trying to stay out of trouble, until Hunter Knox, his best friend’s older brother, storms back into his life. Hunter’s all sharp edges, bad decisions, and barely contained violence. The guy’s a walking red flag and yet, you know Rayne doesn’t stand a chance.
There’s this moment after Rayne's attack — Hunter completely loses it, and for the first time, his obsession turns into something terrifyingly protective. That’s when I knew this wasn’t just a “dark college romance.” It’s about two people who should never have found each other but did, and somehow made it make sense.
I didn’t expect to care about Hunter as much as I did. He’s brutal, yeah, but Ruebins peels him open layer by layer until you start to see how much pain is underneath all that anger. And Rayne… he’s softer, but not weak. I loved watching him stop being afraid of his own darkness.
The whole secret-society subplot adds some tension, but the emotional core is 100% these two broken men trying to love each other in a world built on power and lies. The ending felt earned — dark, tender, a little messy — but satisfying in that “they survived it together” kind of way.
So yeah, Dark Little Game was my first book by this author, and now I’m hooked. Ruebins does obsession, intimacy, and vulnerability so well it hurts.
If you love grumpy/sunshine but a bit darker, enemies-to-lovers, forbidden attraction, and trauma-healing through love that shouldn’t make sense but somehow does, this one’s for you.
This book gave me goosebumps, broke my heart a few times, and still left me smiling at the end.
5 stars for the tension, the emotion, and because it reminded me that even the darkest people can crave light, and sometimes love is the most dangerous game of all.
Ruebins has this addictive way of writing that pulls you right into the tension — that slow, dangerous kind of chemistry that builds until you can feel it buzzing under your skin. Rayne and Hunter? Absolute chaos. But the kind of chaos that makes your chest ache because you know there’s something real hiding underneath all the hate and lust.
Rayne is the scholarship kid surrounded by rich people at Crimson College. He’s trying to stay out of trouble, until Hunter Knox, his best friend’s older brother, storms back into his life. Hunter’s all sharp edges, bad decisions, and barely contained violence. The guy’s a walking red flag and yet, you know Rayne doesn’t stand a chance.
There’s this moment after Rayne's attack — Hunter completely loses it, and for the first time, his obsession turns into something terrifyingly protective. That’s when I knew this wasn’t just a “dark college romance.” It’s about two people who should never have found each other but did, and somehow made it make sense.
I didn’t expect to care about Hunter as much as I did. He’s brutal, yeah, but Ruebins peels him open layer by layer until you start to see how much pain is underneath all that anger. And Rayne… he’s softer, but not weak. I loved watching him stop being afraid of his own darkness.
The whole secret-society subplot adds some tension, but the emotional core is 100% these two broken men trying to love each other in a world built on power and lies. The ending felt earned — dark, tender, a little messy — but satisfying in that “they survived it together” kind of way.
So yeah, Dark Little Game was my first book by this author, and now I’m hooked. Ruebins does obsession, intimacy, and vulnerability so well it hurts.
If you love grumpy/sunshine but a bit darker, enemies-to-lovers, forbidden attraction, and trauma-healing through love that shouldn’t make sense but somehow does, this one’s for you.
This book gave me goosebumps, broke my heart a few times, and still left me smiling at the end.
5 stars for the tension, the emotion, and because it reminded me that even the darkest people can crave light, and sometimes love is the most dangerous game of all.
October 23, 2025
This book's apparently the darkest Raleigh’s written and although I haven’t yet read any of her other novels, I think she did a great job. I really enjoyed it.
I got totally ensnared by these two MCs, Hunter and Rayne, and their complicated relationship. They’re opposites but they are so well suited. There’s just something so intoxicating about them both that I finished reading it in the early hours of the morning because I couldn’t wait to know what happened.
Rayne’s a golden boy, rising from a poor family, and how well loved he is by others is testament to his kind heart. I especially adored his character, and it’s no surprise that he’s the one who manages to crack through Hunter’s armour and has always seen the good in him. Hunter’s unpredictable and pretty lost in himself, his grief and anger consuming him, but Rayne challenges him and makes him face uncomfortable truths about his feelings that he would prefer to avoid.
Their relationship initially begins as a game, purely as revenge from Hunter’s side after Rayne makes a rash decision, but I loved seeing how it evolves into more. There’s a constant electric charge between them when they’re together and I knew that when it snapped, the result would be intense, and it was… intensely satisfying. Their spicy scenes are so very them and they both revel in how much the other embraces the darker sides of themselves.
I loved seeing the peeks of Hunter’s softer side throughout the book – those little things he does show how much he does actually care made a big impact on me, and I grew incredibly fond of the broken man, who just needs someone to really see him.
The epilogue was the perfect ending for these two – it made me beyond happy to see them get their HEAs, especially seeing how Hunter was at that point.
I loved the best friend’s brother aspect in this too; that animosity between brothers making it even more forbidden, but I found it interesting to see how Hunter has always perceived Rayne’s relationship with Weston.
Oh, and I cannot forget the incredibly lovable Ollie as a side character! I’m so looking forward to seeing his adorable, awkward self in the next book.
I got totally ensnared by these two MCs, Hunter and Rayne, and their complicated relationship. They’re opposites but they are so well suited. There’s just something so intoxicating about them both that I finished reading it in the early hours of the morning because I couldn’t wait to know what happened.
Rayne’s a golden boy, rising from a poor family, and how well loved he is by others is testament to his kind heart. I especially adored his character, and it’s no surprise that he’s the one who manages to crack through Hunter’s armour and has always seen the good in him. Hunter’s unpredictable and pretty lost in himself, his grief and anger consuming him, but Rayne challenges him and makes him face uncomfortable truths about his feelings that he would prefer to avoid.
Their relationship initially begins as a game, purely as revenge from Hunter’s side after Rayne makes a rash decision, but I loved seeing how it evolves into more. There’s a constant electric charge between them when they’re together and I knew that when it snapped, the result would be intense, and it was… intensely satisfying. Their spicy scenes are so very them and they both revel in how much the other embraces the darker sides of themselves.
I loved seeing the peeks of Hunter’s softer side throughout the book – those little things he does show how much he does actually care made a big impact on me, and I grew incredibly fond of the broken man, who just needs someone to really see him.
The epilogue was the perfect ending for these two – it made me beyond happy to see them get their HEAs, especially seeing how Hunter was at that point.
I loved the best friend’s brother aspect in this too; that animosity between brothers making it even more forbidden, but I found it interesting to see how Hunter has always perceived Rayne’s relationship with Weston.
Oh, and I cannot forget the incredibly lovable Ollie as a side character! I’m so looking forward to seeing his adorable, awkward self in the next book.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 134 reviews