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Knife for Hire
A woman down on her luck tries to get a job into a kitchen as a knife for hire.
Unfortunately, she ends up accidentally posting her resume on the dark web instead...
This will be a why choose rom com.
Unfortunately, she ends up accidentally posting her resume on the dark web instead...
This will be a why choose rom com.
- GenresWhy Choose
401 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 23, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews
October 18, 2026
I had SO much fun reading this book!
Cinnamon is chaotic, lovable, and honestly, a walking disaster. The fact that she accidentally becomes a serial killer had me laughing because WHAT DO YOU MEAN?!
Orzo, Reuben and Kale are immediately taken with her, and I loved watching them fall for this absolute menace of a woman. The whole concept of this book was hilarious, and I genuinely enjoyed every minute of it. It was such a fun, entertaining read, and sometimes you just need a book that makes you laugh this much.
My only complaint? Where was my spicy group scene?! 👀We get a scene with Kale and Orzo sharing Cinnamon, which I enjoyed, but for a why-choose romance, I NEED to see all my men sharing their girl at least once. Is that too much to ask?! Apparently so. 🌶️
Overall, this was such a fun read, and Cinnamon is an absolute menace in the best possible way. If you enjoy chaotic FMCs and a romance that doesn’t take itself too seriously, this one was a blast to read.
Thank you to the author for the ARC.
Cinnamon is chaotic, lovable, and honestly, a walking disaster. The fact that she accidentally becomes a serial killer had me laughing because WHAT DO YOU MEAN?!
Orzo, Reuben and Kale are immediately taken with her, and I loved watching them fall for this absolute menace of a woman. The whole concept of this book was hilarious, and I genuinely enjoyed every minute of it. It was such a fun, entertaining read, and sometimes you just need a book that makes you laugh this much.
My only complaint? Where was my spicy group scene?! 👀We get a scene with Kale and Orzo sharing Cinnamon, which I enjoyed, but for a why-choose romance, I NEED to see all my men sharing their girl at least once. Is that too much to ask?! Apparently so. 🌶️
Overall, this was such a fun read, and Cinnamon is an absolute menace in the best possible way. If you enjoy chaotic FMCs and a romance that doesn’t take itself too seriously, this one was a blast to read.
Thank you to the author for the ARC.
October 24, 2026
I absolutely loved this book. I am obsessed with it. Love all the culinary references with all of the characters names.
Cinnamon is awesome. The way she became an "accidental killer" is hilarious. It was like watching The Pink Panther or Naked Gun movies. Cinnamon's "secret ingredient" is the best.
Speaking of best. The three men that incorporate into her life are amazing...Orzo, Reuben, and Kale. I do have a favorite and that is Orzo but that is only because of the connection they shared previously.
This book is delicioso!!
Cinnamon is awesome. The way she became an "accidental killer" is hilarious. It was like watching The Pink Panther or Naked Gun movies. Cinnamon's "secret ingredient" is the best.
Speaking of best. The three men that incorporate into her life are amazing...Orzo, Reuben, and Kale. I do have a favorite and that is Orzo but that is only because of the connection they shared previously.
This book is delicioso!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was absolutely mental. 10 out of 10 one of the best books I have read this year. The premises of the plot alone had me stalking to read this one, but actually reading it. It's chaos, and so, so good. Everyone's story intersects, but not a single one of them are aware of the connection, making it hilariously messy.
This quote from the book : "A thousand misunderstandings
and doses of insanity land onto this
moment." Absolutely resonated with what I was reading. So much misconception, misunderstandings, and assumptions, all usually annoying book troupes but together, amazing. I laughed so much, and I think everyone needs to read this, I will be recommending it from my soap box.
This quote from the book : "A thousand misunderstandings
and doses of insanity land onto this
moment." Absolutely resonated with what I was reading. So much misconception, misunderstandings, and assumptions, all usually annoying book troupes but together, amazing. I laughed so much, and I think everyone needs to read this, I will be recommending it from my soap box.
October 26, 2026
Definitely made me chuckle a few times. Lots of hilarious misunderstandings!
Sometimes, misunderstandings between characters can be annoying for us readers. In this case, it absolutely MAKES the book. It's hilarious to see two people having the exact same conversation but mean VERY different things!
Cinnamon seems to have bad luck follow her like a bad smell, ever since she was a child. Her passion is cooking, but she can't seem to keep a job due to bad things happening. After a suggestion by her best friend, she decides to become her own boss and become a "knife for hire."
As you can guess, this is where MANY of the misunderstandings begin!
After being turned down by a couple of people not willing to take the job, she hires an anonymous web designer to create a website for her. When finished, it doesn't look like much, but she gets a LOT of messages! Strangely, all but one disappear overnight, but that one message leads to multiple strange cooking jobs for her. She assumes all go great, especially since she keeps getting hired. She just doesn't realize she's accidently leaving a trail of bodies behind!
The guys are great and each have different personalities (everything from possessive to calm and collected), and they're all great for her, even when they aren't on the same page.
I absolutely recommend this book. It's a great rom-com! It would also be a fantastic palate cleanser.
Sometimes, misunderstandings between characters can be annoying for us readers. In this case, it absolutely MAKES the book. It's hilarious to see two people having the exact same conversation but mean VERY different things!
Cinnamon seems to have bad luck follow her like a bad smell, ever since she was a child. Her passion is cooking, but she can't seem to keep a job due to bad things happening. After a suggestion by her best friend, she decides to become her own boss and become a "knife for hire."
As you can guess, this is where MANY of the misunderstandings begin!
After being turned down by a couple of people not willing to take the job, she hires an anonymous web designer to create a website for her. When finished, it doesn't look like much, but she gets a LOT of messages! Strangely, all but one disappear overnight, but that one message leads to multiple strange cooking jobs for her. She assumes all go great, especially since she keeps getting hired. She just doesn't realize she's accidently leaving a trail of bodies behind!
The guys are great and each have different personalities (everything from possessive to calm and collected), and they're all great for her, even when they aren't on the same page.
I absolutely recommend this book. It's a great rom-com! It would also be a fantastic palate cleanser.
October 18, 2026
This was such a quirky and fun read. I was cackling at all the names being food based and how completely oblivious Cinnamon was. The spicy bits are just what I expected from the Author. If you need a spiced up quirky read give this one a try.
Read
October 27, 2026🟢 This is a reverse harem 🟢
October 14, 2026
This is an ARC review.
So, I was very confused in the beginning of this book for a good few chapters. Then it all started to pick up. It was a very cute story line and I loved all the characters. However, I would’ve loved more of the characters all together. I also felt like we weren’t getting more backstory and personality from the characters, especially the men. And then it was just all of sudden, they’re in love?? Especially when she had known them for what, 2 weeks? She hadn’t even spent any time with them.
Idk, I just needed more depth. It was very cute and I enjoyed the characters, the plot, and what little bit of spice we did get. If there is to be another book after this one with the same characters, I would probably read it.
So, I was very confused in the beginning of this book for a good few chapters. Then it all started to pick up. It was a very cute story line and I loved all the characters. However, I would’ve loved more of the characters all together. I also felt like we weren’t getting more backstory and personality from the characters, especially the men. And then it was just all of sudden, they’re in love?? Especially when she had known them for what, 2 weeks? She hadn’t even spent any time with them.
Idk, I just needed more depth. It was very cute and I enjoyed the characters, the plot, and what little bit of spice we did get. If there is to be another book after this one with the same characters, I would probably read it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC READ.
Funny, reverse harem type story. Though I did really struggle with the consistent food names, they felt a little overplayed at times.
The relationships felt a little rushed especially the 3rd MMC but it was an easy, mostly lighthearted read which did have me laughing.
Funny, reverse harem type story. Though I did really struggle with the consistent food names, they felt a little overplayed at times.
The relationships felt a little rushed especially the 3rd MMC but it was an easy, mostly lighthearted read which did have me laughing.
October 23, 2026
Chef by trade. K*ller by accident.
Cinnamon cannot catch a break.
Fired from yet another restaurant job she decides to take matters into her own hands.
She’ll become a knife for hire.
A chef who will come in and cook for private clients.
One misunderstanding later and Cinnamon’s new business takes a sinister turn.
People start hiring her to k*ll.
The worst part? She’s accidentally good at it.
But Cinnamon’s past is a recipe for trouble, and the dangerous men seasoning her life are only making things worse.
There’s the broody crime boss who wants to hire her.
The psychotic enforcer who won’t let her leave his sight.
The guilt-ridden detective who accidentally put her on the dark web in the first place.
Three men. Three agendas. And enough secrets to ruin everyone’s appetite.
If that’s not bad enough, Cinnamon is about to discover that her past has a way of coming back for seconds.
And this time, it’s hungrier than before.
YOUR MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS!!! Please read and pay close attention to the trigger warnings at the beginning of this book. Some content and scenes may not suit all readers and could be triggering for others. Remember, your mental health comes first. Reader discretion is advised. Intended for readers 18+.
Triggers include but are not limited to: Age gap (she is 23 oldest is 34), Accidental Murder, Drug abuse and use (not by main characters), OD on page, but not overly graphic (not main characters), Drinking, Sexual content, Attempted murder, Murder, Stalking, Orphans, Obsessive MMCs, Organized crime, Inappropriate use of bag clips (this isn't like the potato peeler in
Vengeful Valentine).
Tropes: Accidental Assassin, Mistaken Identity, Miscommunication, Morally Grey Men, Dark Romantic Comedy, Organized Crime, Mafia Romance, Obsessive/Possessive MMC, Grumpy/Broody MMC, Law Enforcement x Criminal, Dark Secrets, Dangerous Men Falling for an Unconventional FMC, Fish Out of Water, Reluctant Criminal, Unexpected Talent, Hidden Skills, Career Reinvention, Gone Wrong, Psychotic MMC, Unhinged MMC, Opposing Agendas, Secrets and Lies, Past Comes Back to Haunt You, Criminal Underworld, Suspense and Intrigue, Touch Her and Unalive, Who Did This to You?, Enemies-to-Lovers, Protective Antiheroes, Found Family, Why Choose Romance, Dark Romance, Romantic Suspense, Organized Crime Romance, Crime Comedy, Accidental Assassin, Mistaken Identity, Morally Grey Men, Psychotic MMC, Possessive MMC, Broody Crime Boss, Detective Love Interest, Dark Humour, Criminal Underworld, Hidden Past, Chaotic FMC
Knife for Hire by Sage RelleAnne. This is a diet dark why choose romcom. There will not be MM.
This book is a must read! I was absolutely thrilled to be reading it and it was far better than I'd ever expected. The story was absolutely brilliant and I loved it so much! This is definitely no ordinary romance. It was a cereal-ously grape read! A chef who turns up as a killer for hire?! GRILLLL, say less!!
Poor Cinnamon really is clueless and a bit of a klutz. She gets some help to set up her own website so she can launch her own catering business. The thing she doesn't know is that she's effectively placed herself on the dark web as a killer for hire - at a very low rate of $50 per head! The plot was great! It was a bit on the bland side in terms of spice, but I was reading it very quickly! Can we talk about the LOL moments?!
Cinnamon thinks she's being hired to cook, she's actually being hired to murder someone! Priceless! I definitely laughed out loud a few times. Let's now talk about THE MEN! A brooding crime lord, a mad as hell hitman and a detective! Yes please! I liked all of the characters, Enzo though! Sirrrr! He definitely took over a bit more of my heart! All of them are absolutely gorgeous though! It's a stand-alone book but I'd absolutely love to see more of these characters as I'm not ready to say goodbye!
What I liked: the story, the humour, the mystery, the characters and the backstories! I really enjoyed learning about the past as much as I did the present. I think this is absolutely the perfect lighter dark romance. If you're new to dark romance or want to dip your toe in without going straight into the deep end, this would be a great place to start!
The only downside is that I wanted more!! I wanted more spice in every interaction! I was waiting for the one scene that would make me slam my Kindle shut and chase my husband around our apartment! (Well, really, limp chase my husband around our apartment. And yes, I’ve done that before.) I really loved the backstories, but I wish we'd spent a bit more time with the characters. Their relationships developed very quickly (in about two weeks), and I would have liked to see a bit more of that development.
I won't spoil anything as it's absolutely brilliant to watch the madness unfold (though it does take a while for her to work out what her clients are actually employing her for). As a reader we know what's going on and they don't so that's a huge part of the appeal. Did that in any way diminish my love for the book? Absolutely not!
Along with all the murder-for-hire, there's also a Why Choose love story with three guys. Each of them had their own fairly interesting way of fitting into the story and Cinnamon’s life, which was a nice touch, and we do get a happy ending! I just wanted a bit more, which is perfectly normal for me.
Cinnamon cannot catch a break.
Fired from yet another restaurant job she decides to take matters into her own hands.
She’ll become a knife for hire.
A chef who will come in and cook for private clients.
One misunderstanding later and Cinnamon’s new business takes a sinister turn.
People start hiring her to k*ll.
The worst part? She’s accidentally good at it.
But Cinnamon’s past is a recipe for trouble, and the dangerous men seasoning her life are only making things worse.
There’s the broody crime boss who wants to hire her.
The psychotic enforcer who won’t let her leave his sight.
The guilt-ridden detective who accidentally put her on the dark web in the first place.
Three men. Three agendas. And enough secrets to ruin everyone’s appetite.
If that’s not bad enough, Cinnamon is about to discover that her past has a way of coming back for seconds.
And this time, it’s hungrier than before.
YOUR MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS!!! Please read and pay close attention to the trigger warnings at the beginning of this book. Some content and scenes may not suit all readers and could be triggering for others. Remember, your mental health comes first. Reader discretion is advised. Intended for readers 18+.
Triggers include but are not limited to: Age gap (she is 23 oldest is 34), Accidental Murder, Drug abuse and use (not by main characters), OD on page, but not overly graphic (not main characters), Drinking, Sexual content, Attempted murder, Murder, Stalking, Orphans, Obsessive MMCs, Organized crime, Inappropriate use of bag clips (this isn't like the potato peeler in
Vengeful Valentine).
Tropes: Accidental Assassin, Mistaken Identity, Miscommunication, Morally Grey Men, Dark Romantic Comedy, Organized Crime, Mafia Romance, Obsessive/Possessive MMC, Grumpy/Broody MMC, Law Enforcement x Criminal, Dark Secrets, Dangerous Men Falling for an Unconventional FMC, Fish Out of Water, Reluctant Criminal, Unexpected Talent, Hidden Skills, Career Reinvention, Gone Wrong, Psychotic MMC, Unhinged MMC, Opposing Agendas, Secrets and Lies, Past Comes Back to Haunt You, Criminal Underworld, Suspense and Intrigue, Touch Her and Unalive, Who Did This to You?, Enemies-to-Lovers, Protective Antiheroes, Found Family, Why Choose Romance, Dark Romance, Romantic Suspense, Organized Crime Romance, Crime Comedy, Accidental Assassin, Mistaken Identity, Morally Grey Men, Psychotic MMC, Possessive MMC, Broody Crime Boss, Detective Love Interest, Dark Humour, Criminal Underworld, Hidden Past, Chaotic FMC
Knife for Hire by Sage RelleAnne. This is a diet dark why choose romcom. There will not be MM.
This book is a must read! I was absolutely thrilled to be reading it and it was far better than I'd ever expected. The story was absolutely brilliant and I loved it so much! This is definitely no ordinary romance. It was a cereal-ously grape read! A chef who turns up as a killer for hire?! GRILLLL, say less!!
Poor Cinnamon really is clueless and a bit of a klutz. She gets some help to set up her own website so she can launch her own catering business. The thing she doesn't know is that she's effectively placed herself on the dark web as a killer for hire - at a very low rate of $50 per head! The plot was great! It was a bit on the bland side in terms of spice, but I was reading it very quickly! Can we talk about the LOL moments?!
Cinnamon thinks she's being hired to cook, she's actually being hired to murder someone! Priceless! I definitely laughed out loud a few times. Let's now talk about THE MEN! A brooding crime lord, a mad as hell hitman and a detective! Yes please! I liked all of the characters, Enzo though! Sirrrr! He definitely took over a bit more of my heart! All of them are absolutely gorgeous though! It's a stand-alone book but I'd absolutely love to see more of these characters as I'm not ready to say goodbye!
What I liked: the story, the humour, the mystery, the characters and the backstories! I really enjoyed learning about the past as much as I did the present. I think this is absolutely the perfect lighter dark romance. If you're new to dark romance or want to dip your toe in without going straight into the deep end, this would be a great place to start!
The only downside is that I wanted more!! I wanted more spice in every interaction! I was waiting for the one scene that would make me slam my Kindle shut and chase my husband around our apartment! (Well, really, limp chase my husband around our apartment. And yes, I’ve done that before.) I really loved the backstories, but I wish we'd spent a bit more time with the characters. Their relationships developed very quickly (in about two weeks), and I would have liked to see a bit more of that development.
I won't spoil anything as it's absolutely brilliant to watch the madness unfold (though it does take a while for her to work out what her clients are actually employing her for). As a reader we know what's going on and they don't so that's a huge part of the appeal. Did that in any way diminish my love for the book? Absolutely not!
Along with all the murder-for-hire, there's also a Why Choose love story with three guys. Each of them had their own fairly interesting way of fitting into the story and Cinnamon’s life, which was a nice touch, and we do get a happy ending! I just wanted a bit more, which is perfectly normal for me.
October 28, 2026
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Cinnamon’s accidental transformation into a contract killer was an unexpected twist that I didn’t anticipate until she entered my life. 😂🔪
“Knife For Hire” is a chaotic, dark, spicy, hilarious, and utterly unhinged read.
Cinnamon’s sole desire is to cook, but unfortunately, she also seems to have the worst—or perhaps best?—luck imaginable. People around her keep dying in increasingly ridiculous ways. When her new “knife for hire” business is mistaken for something much more sinister, everyone assumes she’s an incredibly skilled assassin.
Meanwhile, Cinnamon is basically standing there like, “I JUST WANTED TO COOK. 😭”
And then there are Orzo, Reuben, and Kale—three very different men with complicated histories and questionable levels of obsession. They’re all inexplicably drawn to Cinnamon.
Orzo, in particular, had me questioning every standard I’ve ever had. His version of “protective” is approximately seventeen restraining orders past normal. 😂 The tracking, the stalking, and the immediate decision that Cinnamon belongs in his life forever? Sir.
But what surprised me was the amount of heart that exists beneath all the chaos. Each character carries guilt, trauma, complicated family history, and their own idea of what they deserve. Watching all of these histories slowly connect made the story much more layered than the ridiculous premise initially suggests.
And I LOVE that Cinnamon remains Cinnamon throughout it all. She’s clumsy, funny, stubborn, sexually confident, incredibly talented in the kitchen, and somehow simultaneously the least intimidating and most dangerous person in the room.
The food puns throughout the chapter titles deserve their own star because some of them were absolutely criminal. 😂
Then, the why-choose relationship finally comes together, and YES she gets ALL THREE.
The later scenes with Cinnamon, Orzo, Reuben, and Kale together? 👀🌶️
The transformation from accidental killer to Cinnamon finally accepting her true potential was incredibly satisfying.
That ending perfectly suited her character.
A chef by profession, she became a killer by accident. And eventually, perhaps not so accidentally. 🔪
If you enjoy dark themes, why settle for romance when you can have obsessive men, crime families, morally ambiguous characters, stalking, age gaps, chaotic heroines, ridiculous humor woven into darker subject matter, and enough food jokes to fill an entire restaurant menu add this to your TBR list.
Cinnamon’s accidental transformation into a contract killer was an unexpected twist that I didn’t anticipate until she entered my life. 😂🔪
“Knife For Hire” is a chaotic, dark, spicy, hilarious, and utterly unhinged read.
Cinnamon’s sole desire is to cook, but unfortunately, she also seems to have the worst—or perhaps best?—luck imaginable. People around her keep dying in increasingly ridiculous ways. When her new “knife for hire” business is mistaken for something much more sinister, everyone assumes she’s an incredibly skilled assassin.
Meanwhile, Cinnamon is basically standing there like, “I JUST WANTED TO COOK. 😭”
And then there are Orzo, Reuben, and Kale—three very different men with complicated histories and questionable levels of obsession. They’re all inexplicably drawn to Cinnamon.
Orzo, in particular, had me questioning every standard I’ve ever had. His version of “protective” is approximately seventeen restraining orders past normal. 😂 The tracking, the stalking, and the immediate decision that Cinnamon belongs in his life forever? Sir.
But what surprised me was the amount of heart that exists beneath all the chaos. Each character carries guilt, trauma, complicated family history, and their own idea of what they deserve. Watching all of these histories slowly connect made the story much more layered than the ridiculous premise initially suggests.
And I LOVE that Cinnamon remains Cinnamon throughout it all. She’s clumsy, funny, stubborn, sexually confident, incredibly talented in the kitchen, and somehow simultaneously the least intimidating and most dangerous person in the room.
The food puns throughout the chapter titles deserve their own star because some of them were absolutely criminal. 😂
Then, the why-choose relationship finally comes together, and YES she gets ALL THREE.
The later scenes with Cinnamon, Orzo, Reuben, and Kale together? 👀🌶️
The transformation from accidental killer to Cinnamon finally accepting her true potential was incredibly satisfying.
That ending perfectly suited her character.
A chef by profession, she became a killer by accident. And eventually, perhaps not so accidentally. 🔪
If you enjoy dark themes, why settle for romance when you can have obsessive men, crime families, morally ambiguous characters, stalking, age gaps, chaotic heroines, ridiculous humor woven into darker subject matter, and enough food jokes to fill an entire restaurant menu add this to your TBR list.
Read
October 15, 20265⭐ 4🌶️
📚 ARC REVIEW
OMG!! This book was SOOOOO GOOD!! 🔥🔪😂
A chef who accidentally becomes a killer for hire?! GIRLLLL, SAY LESS!! 💀😂
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of Knife for Hire, and let me tell you, I absolutely DEVOURED this book!
The plot was fantastic! Even though it had a little less spice than I normally crave, I was still burning through those pages! 🔥📖
And can we talk about the LOL moments?! 😂 Cinnamon thinks she's being hired to COOK, but people are actually hiring her to UNALIVE someone?! PRICELESS!! 💀🔪 I definitely had a few laugh-out-loud moments!
Now let's talk about THE MEN!! 🥵🔥
A broody crime boss, a psychotic enforcer, and a detective?! YES PLEASE!! 😈
I loved all these characters, but ENZO?! SIRRRR!! 🥵🫠 He definitely stole a little extra piece of my heart! But honestly, ALL those boys are fine as heck!!
This is a standalone, but I would LOVE to see more from these characters because I am not ready to say goodbye!
🖤 What I Loved:
The storyline, the humor, the mystery, the characters, and the backstories! I really enjoyed learning about the past well enjoying the present.
I also think this is a PERFECT lighter dark romance! If you're new to dark romance and want to dip your toes into the darker side without jumping straight into the deep end, this would be a great beginner read! 🔪🖤
🌶️ Why only 4🌶️ instead of 5🌶️?
Because GIRLLLL, I WANTED MORE!! 😂🔥
I wanted more spice with everyone involved! I was waiting for THAT scene that would have me closing my Kindle and chasing my husband around the house! 🤣🥵
And while I absolutely loved the backstories, I do wish we'd gotten a little more time with each character. The relationships developed pretty quickly, over roughly two weeks, and I would have loved more moments watching those connections grow.
But did that stop me from loving this book?! ABSOLUTELY NOT!! 😍
📖 What to Expect:
🔪 Chef turned accidental killer
🖤 Lighter dark romance
🥵 Why choose — 3 MMCs
😂 Laugh-out-loud moments
🚩 Morally gray men
🕵️ Mystery and secrets
💋 No MM
🔥 Beginner-friendly dark romance
Sage Relleanne, THANK YOU SO MUCH for allowing me to read your book early! I'm such a huge fan, and I absolutely loved this one!! 🖤🔪
⚠️ As always, check your triggers!
#KnifeForHire #SageRelleanne #WhyChooseRomance #DarkRomanceBookTok #ARCReview
📚 ARC REVIEW
OMG!! This book was SOOOOO GOOD!! 🔥🔪😂
A chef who accidentally becomes a killer for hire?! GIRLLLL, SAY LESS!! 💀😂
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of Knife for Hire, and let me tell you, I absolutely DEVOURED this book!
The plot was fantastic! Even though it had a little less spice than I normally crave, I was still burning through those pages! 🔥📖
And can we talk about the LOL moments?! 😂 Cinnamon thinks she's being hired to COOK, but people are actually hiring her to UNALIVE someone?! PRICELESS!! 💀🔪 I definitely had a few laugh-out-loud moments!
Now let's talk about THE MEN!! 🥵🔥
A broody crime boss, a psychotic enforcer, and a detective?! YES PLEASE!! 😈
I loved all these characters, but ENZO?! SIRRRR!! 🥵🫠 He definitely stole a little extra piece of my heart! But honestly, ALL those boys are fine as heck!!
This is a standalone, but I would LOVE to see more from these characters because I am not ready to say goodbye!
🖤 What I Loved:
The storyline, the humor, the mystery, the characters, and the backstories! I really enjoyed learning about the past well enjoying the present.
I also think this is a PERFECT lighter dark romance! If you're new to dark romance and want to dip your toes into the darker side without jumping straight into the deep end, this would be a great beginner read! 🔪🖤
🌶️ Why only 4🌶️ instead of 5🌶️?
Because GIRLLLL, I WANTED MORE!! 😂🔥
I wanted more spice with everyone involved! I was waiting for THAT scene that would have me closing my Kindle and chasing my husband around the house! 🤣🥵
And while I absolutely loved the backstories, I do wish we'd gotten a little more time with each character. The relationships developed pretty quickly, over roughly two weeks, and I would have loved more moments watching those connections grow.
But did that stop me from loving this book?! ABSOLUTELY NOT!! 😍
📖 What to Expect:
🔪 Chef turned accidental killer
🖤 Lighter dark romance
🥵 Why choose — 3 MMCs
😂 Laugh-out-loud moments
🚩 Morally gray men
🕵️ Mystery and secrets
💋 No MM
🔥 Beginner-friendly dark romance
Sage Relleanne, THANK YOU SO MUCH for allowing me to read your book early! I'm such a huge fan, and I absolutely loved this one!! 🖤🔪
⚠️ As always, check your triggers!
#KnifeForHire #SageRelleanne #WhyChooseRomance #DarkRomanceBookTok #ARCReview
Review of advance copy received from Author
Everyone needs to make thyme to read this eggcellent book! It made miso happy, and I just can't espresso how grate the story was! This is definitely nacho ordinary romaine-ce, and was a cereal-ously grape read!!
(ok, I'll stop now :D)
The blurb hooked me - accidentally becoming an assassin because you thought that advertising yourself as a "knife for hire" meant you'd be a private chef.... hilariously bonkers! - and the book certainly delivered on that zany plot giving us an extremely entertaining and joyful ride. I'd give it more than 5 stars if I could.
Poor Cinnamon, clueless and clumsy - gets help to set up a website so she can start her own catering business, only what she doesn't realise is that she's put herself out there on the dark web as a killer for hire - for the budget price of only $50 per head!
I won't spoil any of the surprise, because DAMN it's so good to experience it as the insanity unfolds, but what made it especially amusing was how long it took for her to realise what her clients were actually booking her for, and as a reader being able to sit back and know what's going on while the characters don't... chef's kiss.
Alongside all the murdering for hire... there is also a polyamory love story with 3 guys. Each had their own interesting way of fitting into the story which was also a great touch... and we get a happily ever after!
(ok, I'll stop now :D)
The blurb hooked me - accidentally becoming an assassin because you thought that advertising yourself as a "knife for hire" meant you'd be a private chef.... hilariously bonkers! - and the book certainly delivered on that zany plot giving us an extremely entertaining and joyful ride. I'd give it more than 5 stars if I could.
Poor Cinnamon, clueless and clumsy - gets help to set up a website so she can start her own catering business, only what she doesn't realise is that she's put herself out there on the dark web as a killer for hire - for the budget price of only $50 per head!
I won't spoil any of the surprise, because DAMN it's so good to experience it as the insanity unfolds, but what made it especially amusing was how long it took for her to realise what her clients were actually booking her for, and as a reader being able to sit back and know what's going on while the characters don't... chef's kiss.
Alongside all the murdering for hire... there is also a polyamory love story with 3 guys. Each had their own interesting way of fitting into the story which was also a great touch... and we get a happily ever after!
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC Review, copy received from author
This book was so funny, chaotic, and spicy! It was fast paced and all the characters are connected to the backstory of the four main families running the city. The FMC Cinnamon is a Chef who wants to become her own boss so she seeks help starting up a website to get clients, what she doesn't know is the website is being set up on the dark web thanks to her 'knife for hire' name. i will give the warning that this is a short book so if your wanting more character depth and lots of relationship building this isnt that, this is fast connections with all MMC's but still has story. something i thought was really fun about the story was all the names, they were all food based which just added to light hearted-ness of this dark rom-com. Despite it being funny always check trigger warnings friends! ( age gap, drug abuse but not by main characters, OD but not overly graphic, stalking, obsessive MMCs, attempted/murder to name a few)
Things to look forward to in this book:
~ why choose
~ accidental murderess chef
~ spice 2.5-3 /5
~ chaos around every turn
~ bag clips...
This book was so funny, chaotic, and spicy! It was fast paced and all the characters are connected to the backstory of the four main families running the city. The FMC Cinnamon is a Chef who wants to become her own boss so she seeks help starting up a website to get clients, what she doesn't know is the website is being set up on the dark web thanks to her 'knife for hire' name. i will give the warning that this is a short book so if your wanting more character depth and lots of relationship building this isnt that, this is fast connections with all MMC's but still has story. something i thought was really fun about the story was all the names, they were all food based which just added to light hearted-ness of this dark rom-com. Despite it being funny always check trigger warnings friends! ( age gap, drug abuse but not by main characters, OD but not overly graphic, stalking, obsessive MMCs, attempted/murder to name a few)
Things to look forward to in this book:
~ why choose
~ accidental murderess chef
~ spice 2.5-3 /5
~ chaos around every turn
~ bag clips...
October 23, 2026
ARC review -
I'm conflicted. I rated this 3 stars because I genuinely liked 95% of the writing done by the Author, BUT I don't think the multiple POV's were necessary. The Author could have had the same conclusion and maybe a bit more of a surprise by just writing from FMC's POV, it felt like there were too many chefs in the kitchen. I also wasn't expecting it to be a "why choose" trope, it's plainly not my cup of tea. The spice itself wasn't an issue, although one word in particular during the Spicy scenes just turned me off it. The first Spicy scene also felt too rough given it was their first time and the way MC's POV came across didn't match with how rough the spice was.
I did like Cinnamon's ditsy character though, it added humour to split up the tension. My favourite MC is Kale by far, much more my speed. There were a lot of good moments and I enjoyed the general direction the story was going. The writing is genuinely good so - 3 stars.
All in all; would i recommend this book? Probably not in an everyday setting, but for someone who's into the why choose trope and rough spice; I would recommend.
I'm conflicted. I rated this 3 stars because I genuinely liked 95% of the writing done by the Author, BUT I don't think the multiple POV's were necessary. The Author could have had the same conclusion and maybe a bit more of a surprise by just writing from FMC's POV, it felt like there were too many chefs in the kitchen. I also wasn't expecting it to be a "why choose" trope, it's plainly not my cup of tea. The spice itself wasn't an issue, although one word in particular during the Spicy scenes just turned me off it. The first Spicy scene also felt too rough given it was their first time and the way MC's POV came across didn't match with how rough the spice was.
I did like Cinnamon's ditsy character though, it added humour to split up the tension. My favourite MC is Kale by far, much more my speed. There were a lot of good moments and I enjoyed the general direction the story was going. The writing is genuinely good so - 3 stars.
All in all; would i recommend this book? Probably not in an everyday setting, but for someone who's into the why choose trope and rough spice; I would recommend.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 29, 2026
This is such a cute, fluffy, cozy fun reading for me! I think it could fall under introducing to dark romance kinda genre? It’s not dark for me but yeah it does have dark themes surrounding the story, so yeah.
Anyway, I ♡ the characters, they have their own personality and stands out on their own, as well as I can feel the connection among them too. The plot and world building seems simple, but I like how each one been filled and how smoothly it goes till the end. I’ve been hooked to read from start to finish and yes, enjoyed the simple, fun, cutesy fluffy cozy vibes it gives me throughout the whole story 🥰
This is indeed included rh, but nothing extreme, yet still just a heads up on that since I understand not everyone can digest that theme.
If you’re a foodie or food lovers or into cooking scenery, I think this one is perfect too since I am one and I enjoyed the themes been sprinkled around throughout the whole story.
Overall, I enjoyed reading this book! Thank you for the ARC as per usual! 🥰🫶🏻
Anyway, I ♡ the characters, they have their own personality and stands out on their own, as well as I can feel the connection among them too. The plot and world building seems simple, but I like how each one been filled and how smoothly it goes till the end. I’ve been hooked to read from start to finish and yes, enjoyed the simple, fun, cutesy fluffy cozy vibes it gives me throughout the whole story 🥰
This is indeed included rh, but nothing extreme, yet still just a heads up on that since I understand not everyone can digest that theme.
If you’re a foodie or food lovers or into cooking scenery, I think this one is perfect too since I am one and I enjoyed the themes been sprinkled around throughout the whole story.
Overall, I enjoyed reading this book! Thank you for the ARC as per usual! 🥰🫶🏻
October 30, 2026
I loved the premise of this book. A sous chef is fired and decides to open her own private chef service: Knife for Hire. She hires someone to help set up her website, not knowing she’s now on the dark web advertising as an assassin. But hey, lets roll with it.
We have mafia family drama, the one who left the Family to be a cop, a person from the past who saved her life once-upon-a-time, and an FMC who just can’t catch a break.
Honestly, the story itself is fine! I enjoyed the world building, the interplay between characters, and the plot kept moving. Unfortunately, pretty much EVERY NAME was a food pun. From the website to the dog to even minor characters, everything had to be a play on food. It was overly distracting and really took away from the story. I had difficulty convincing myself to sit down and finish the story because the names were so bad.
Having said that, if you can handle the corny (yes, that’s on purpose) naming convention, read this book!
We have mafia family drama, the one who left the Family to be a cop, a person from the past who saved her life once-upon-a-time, and an FMC who just can’t catch a break.
Honestly, the story itself is fine! I enjoyed the world building, the interplay between characters, and the plot kept moving. Unfortunately, pretty much EVERY NAME was a food pun. From the website to the dog to even minor characters, everything had to be a play on food. It was overly distracting and really took away from the story. I had difficulty convincing myself to sit down and finish the story because the names were so bad.
Having said that, if you can handle the corny (yes, that’s on purpose) naming convention, read this book!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I finished this book within 6.5 hours! It had me hooked from the very beginning. The characters, the plot, the writing style, and the overall energy of the book is 10/10.
Lately a lot of books I’ve read have seemed to lack that emotional/mental connection I love to get with the characters as I read. The author did not fall short on the emotional depth of the characters. I felt the connection the whole book. I truly could not put this book down and I highly recommend it!
Spoilers kinda?:
.
.
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The comedy in this book made me laugh out loud more than once, the fact she is completely oblivious to all the murders was the cherry on top. I really enjoyed the food/ingredient names for the characters since she is a chef. Orzo is probably my favorite character aside from cinnamon( the female mc). His unwavering loyalty and support for cinnamon was “chefs kiss!”
Lately a lot of books I’ve read have seemed to lack that emotional/mental connection I love to get with the characters as I read. The author did not fall short on the emotional depth of the characters. I felt the connection the whole book. I truly could not put this book down and I highly recommend it!
Spoilers kinda?:
.
.
.
The comedy in this book made me laugh out loud more than once, the fact she is completely oblivious to all the murders was the cherry on top. I really enjoyed the food/ingredient names for the characters since she is a chef. Orzo is probably my favorite character aside from cinnamon( the female mc). His unwavering loyalty and support for cinnamon was “chefs kiss!”
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 26, 2026
🔪📚 BOOK REVIEW: Knife for Hire by Sage RelleAnne 📚🔪
A chef by trade and a killer by accident?
Well, bless Cinnamon’s heart some folks can’t catch a break, and apparently some folks can’t catch a break without catching a body, either.
Knife for Hire is dark, chaotic, and funny in that “I probably shouldn’t be laughing, but here we are” kind of way. Cinnamon’s life is already a mess, and then things go from bad to “somebody hide the knives and call a lawyer.” The humor keeps the story moving, the trouble keeps piling up, and I was absolutely here for the madness.
If you like your romance with a little danger, a lot of sass, and characters making choices that would have my mama praying over them, give this one a try. Sage RelleAnne brought the chaos, and I brought snacks and questionable judgment.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I was given an ARC copy to review.
A chef by trade and a killer by accident?
Well, bless Cinnamon’s heart some folks can’t catch a break, and apparently some folks can’t catch a break without catching a body, either.
Knife for Hire is dark, chaotic, and funny in that “I probably shouldn’t be laughing, but here we are” kind of way. Cinnamon’s life is already a mess, and then things go from bad to “somebody hide the knives and call a lawyer.” The humor keeps the story moving, the trouble keeps piling up, and I was absolutely here for the madness.
If you like your romance with a little danger, a lot of sass, and characters making choices that would have my mama praying over them, give this one a try. Sage RelleAnne brought the chaos, and I brought snacks and questionable judgment.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I was given an ARC copy to review.
October 26, 2026
Spice rating: 3/5
Overall book rating: 4/5
Cinnamon has had bad luck follow her throughout her entire life, since her mother died. As she moves through life, those around her may or may not be affected by her luck. When she is out of a job, she decides why not become her own boss? A knife for hire. She's always loved being a cook. Except...she's hired to be a hitman.
Reading the description, you may think this is darker than it was for me. I laughed so much at the things that happened at this book. I would still recommend it to some. However, not someone looking for dark-dark romance. Maybe someone looking for some morally grey characters.
Now the spice... maybe it's me. I love a why choose spice. It just wasn't quite spicy enough for me. All in all it was a good book. I just thought it'd be darker given the tropes. I'd still say to give it a read!
Overall book rating: 4/5
Cinnamon has had bad luck follow her throughout her entire life, since her mother died. As she moves through life, those around her may or may not be affected by her luck. When she is out of a job, she decides why not become her own boss? A knife for hire. She's always loved being a cook. Except...she's hired to be a hitman.
Reading the description, you may think this is darker than it was for me. I laughed so much at the things that happened at this book. I would still recommend it to some. However, not someone looking for dark-dark romance. Maybe someone looking for some morally grey characters.
Now the spice... maybe it's me. I love a why choose spice. It just wasn't quite spicy enough for me. All in all it was a good book. I just thought it'd be darker given the tropes. I'd still say to give it a read!
October 28, 2026
Sage takes the cake on another k!ller book… ha ha get it?
I really enjoyed this standalone, and it was also written in First POV as opposed to her typical Third POV writing. This story is about Cinnamon and starts off pretty strong. She was apart of something years ago that has seemed to carry over into her adult life. Bad luck. Karma, whatever some may call it she had it. She was saved that night, all thanks to the little boy with the frog.
Cinnamon was just a cook trying to make it for herself with her cooking. She finds herself a job cooking, but doesn’t understand the full extent of who she is cooking for and why.
This fast paced why choose had me HOOKED. She found herself lucky charm, the end to the curse. Her men
Orzo gives off obsessed vibes in the way he cared since he first laid eyes on her :,))
I really enjoyed this standalone, and it was also written in First POV as opposed to her typical Third POV writing. This story is about Cinnamon and starts off pretty strong. She was apart of something years ago that has seemed to carry over into her adult life. Bad luck. Karma, whatever some may call it she had it. She was saved that night, all thanks to the little boy with the frog.
Cinnamon was just a cook trying to make it for herself with her cooking. She finds herself a job cooking, but doesn’t understand the full extent of who she is cooking for and why.
This fast paced why choose had me HOOKED. She found herself lucky charm, the end to the curse. Her men
Orzo gives off obsessed vibes in the way he cared since he first laid eyes on her :,))
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
•Dark Rom Com
•Why Choose/MFMM (No⚔️)
•Age Gap (11 years)
•St@lking
•Orgânized Crimê
•Mystery
•Obsessive MMCs
•Bag Clips 🤭
•🌶🌶🌶
Okay, okay, OKAY! I needed this book like how I need air to breathe! I haven't laughed this hard in such a long time. All the food references? Absolutely LOVED it! I cackled at SO MANY OF THEM! Our FMC, Cinnamon, is a chef but bad luck just tends to follow her at every turn! Not necessarily to her herself but to the people around her. She wants to be a private chef so she reaches out to a web designer, and is setting her website up on the dark web.. to be a Knife For Hire! The poor girl has no idea and she's being sent on jobs as a hitman and remember how I said bad luck? Yeah, bad luck for the clients she cooks for! I really hope there will be more in this world I had such a great time reading this and loving all the characters!
•Why Choose/MFMM (No⚔️)
•Age Gap (11 years)
•St@lking
•Orgânized Crimê
•Mystery
•Obsessive MMCs
•Bag Clips 🤭
•🌶🌶🌶
Okay, okay, OKAY! I needed this book like how I need air to breathe! I haven't laughed this hard in such a long time. All the food references? Absolutely LOVED it! I cackled at SO MANY OF THEM! Our FMC, Cinnamon, is a chef but bad luck just tends to follow her at every turn! Not necessarily to her herself but to the people around her. She wants to be a private chef so she reaches out to a web designer, and is setting her website up on the dark web.. to be a Knife For Hire! The poor girl has no idea and she's being sent on jobs as a hitman and remember how I said bad luck? Yeah, bad luck for the clients she cooks for! I really hope there will be more in this world I had such a great time reading this and loving all the characters!
October 26, 2026
Knife for Hire by Sage RelleAnne is to die for!
Cinnamon is just a girl with a passion and heart for cooking...but somehow becomes the best accidental killer ever!
Between the character names, the play on words, and just the utter organized chaos of the characters, this book had me laughing and obsessed from start to finish.
This is a multi-POV book, and it is MFMM, with one group scene.
Triggers include: drug abuse and use, drinking, attempted murder, murder (not graphic), stalking, organized crime, and more
Overall, a fairly light-hearted book that will keep you laughing, even through some of the heavier moments.
I received this eARC from the author/publisher, but this honest review is voluntary
Cinnamon is just a girl with a passion and heart for cooking...but somehow becomes the best accidental killer ever!
Between the character names, the play on words, and just the utter organized chaos of the characters, this book had me laughing and obsessed from start to finish.
This is a multi-POV book, and it is MFMM, with one group scene.
Triggers include: drug abuse and use, drinking, attempted murder, murder (not graphic), stalking, organized crime, and more
Overall, a fairly light-hearted book that will keep you laughing, even through some of the heavier moments.
I received this eARC from the author/publisher, but this honest review is voluntary
Review of advance copy
I found this a bit difficult to get into, all the food names kept pulling me from the story.
But once I was there, Cinnamon’s story just flew by.
The plot has more twists than a pretzel 🥨 and was a fun read with a lot of spice and I was laughing aloud at various points.
I loved Orzo, Kale, and Reuben; the ties that bound not only them to each other but also to Cinnamon ranged from sad to sweet.
Cinnamon was so incredibly sweet, despite feeling that her bad luck was contagious and it was only at the end did she realise how much she was not the unlucky one.
Sweet and spicy story
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🌶️🌶️🌶️
But once I was there, Cinnamon’s story just flew by.
The plot has more twists than a pretzel 🥨 and was a fun read with a lot of spice and I was laughing aloud at various points.
I loved Orzo, Kale, and Reuben; the ties that bound not only them to each other but also to Cinnamon ranged from sad to sweet.
Cinnamon was so incredibly sweet, despite feeling that her bad luck was contagious and it was only at the end did she realise how much she was not the unlucky one.
Sweet and spicy story
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🌶️🌶️🌶️
October 24, 2026
What a fun ride this book was. Cinnamon feels like th unluckiest girl ever. Her bad luck passes to everyone around her making her feel like a relationship is a bad idea. Orzo saved her once when she was a little girl and a chance encounter puts her back into his orbit. Kale is a poloce detective whose changed his name to atay out of family business. He's immediately drawn to her, but is secretly her web designer. Rueben hires her to get rid of bad people. However, cinnamon is but a mere chef and doesn't realize the miscommunication and her unfortunate bad luck are in play. This why choose is definitely worth the read!
October 26, 2026
I can never say enough about RelleAnne. She really tapped into her humorous side as we follow Cin, a young woman with dreams of chef greatness who erroneously gets caught up in a very different type of scheme with some powerful players she did not anticipate being in cahoots with.
With the twists and surprises riddled through this novel, I was so impressed with how she made it all work together without a hitch. Her unique writing style always engages me and supports every ounce of entertainment in her plots and characters. I hate to name too many characters because that in itself is fun with this one!
With the twists and surprises riddled through this novel, I was so impressed with how she made it all work together without a hitch. Her unique writing style always engages me and supports every ounce of entertainment in her plots and characters. I hate to name too many characters because that in itself is fun with this one!
Review of advance copy received from Author
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Y’all, the CHAOS surrounding this FMC was everything! 😂 I loved the pacing, the backstory was a nice touch, and the spice? 🥵🔥 Definitely spicy!
The three MMCs gave us ALL the flavors, from cinnamon roll sweetness to borderline psycho, and honestly, we love a little variety around here! 🤣
And the fact that everyone was named after food? Weird? Absolutely. Somehow, it just WORKED for this story. 🍓🍪😂
Would definitely recommend this one if you’re looking for a why choose with chaos, spice, and men who keep you guessing! ❤️🔥
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Y’all, the CHAOS surrounding this FMC was everything! 😂 I loved the pacing, the backstory was a nice touch, and the spice? 🥵🔥 Definitely spicy!
The three MMCs gave us ALL the flavors, from cinnamon roll sweetness to borderline psycho, and honestly, we love a little variety around here! 🤣
And the fact that everyone was named after food? Weird? Absolutely. Somehow, it just WORKED for this story. 🍓🍪😂
Would definitely recommend this one if you’re looking for a why choose with chaos, spice, and men who keep you guessing! ❤️🔥
Review of advance copy received from Author
I flew through this book. It is more light gray than truly dark but it fully hits every note for romcom in my opinion. It has incredible comedic timing. Puns and situational humor abounds. I fully appreciated the naming of the characters. I don’t want to spoil anything but in each new scenario, I was on the edge of my seat wanting to see how it panned out. I could reread this book just for the giggles and feet kicking as our girl navigates the absolutely massive mess she ends up in the center of.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Cinnamon wants to get a job cooking for individual clients and calls it knife for hire. The guy who sets up her website misunderstands her purpose since it's called Knife for Hire. It sounds like a total sitcom setup but ends up as a why-choose rom-com. This is also in the world of organized crime, and the MMC all come from a different part of that world. It is full of laughs, intrigue, suspense, romance, and some spice. It is dark humor. I enjoyed this book and loved the awkward situations Cinnamon got herself into. I definitely connected to her the most.
October 20, 2026
Knife for Hire is to die for. This was a funny why chose rom-com. Cinnamon is tech illiterate to the point of becoming an accidental serial killer, 😂😂 and the messes she manages to get herself into are next level hilarious! I absolutely loved Orzo! I definitely did not expect everything to play out the way that it did considering Orzo is that broody over jealous type of guy. As far as Kale and Reuben go… Meh! I didn’t love them but that would be because I was team Orzo from the beginning! Amazing read! Poly-relationship, mafia family vibes, rom-com, spicy at times.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was a fun, chaotic and full of laughs read. Each character has a connection to each other, but they don't realize it. Cinnamon has been down on her luck and wishes to build her own website for cooking but miscommunication is involved. Every time Cinnamon turns around, something happens to her, but nothing is her fault per say. I could not put this down and with every page turned, we learned more about Kale, Cinnamon, Rueben and Orzo. The way these three are with her, willing to do anything for her, that is wonderful.
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