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The Executioner Duet #1
His Heart to Steal
“Once a weapon, always a weapon.”
A mantra Scythe lived by. One he killed by.
It carried him through the bad decisions and the uncertain ones.
Being a contract killer for over a decade, how could he not?
A legendary former Army sniper, paired with an enormous build, he is the perfect weapon.
At least that’s what he thinks the world sees him as; until a mission lands in his lap that destroys this perception.
“Nightmare.” “Weapon.” “Machine.”
“A dog.”
The one thing he never wanted to be.
“Ruby is… a woman of the people. A female Robin Hood, if you will.”
Lurking in the shadows of homes, or disguised in the corners of dimly-lit casinos, Ruby has one mission, one singular purpose.
Protect and help the less fortunate.
Armed with traditional shinobi techniques and skills, Ruby’s job is to bring hope and salvation to the vulnerable.
Through casino heists, home robberies, and galas, she uses her beauty and tact to seduce wealthy scumbags out of their exorbitant riches.
But when a skull-masked Assassin threatens to thwart her plans, she finds herself working with the same evil that she’s been fighting against.
Can they put their differences aside and work together before the gluttonous tycoons win it all?
Tropes:
- Grumpy x Grumpier
- "Pierced"
- Black Cat x Doberman
- Skull-Masked Hit Man
- Enemies to Lovers
- "The enemy of my enemy is my friend."
- Slow Burn
His Heart to Steal is a dark romance set in Las Vegas and intended for mature audiences only.
A mantra Scythe lived by. One he killed by.
It carried him through the bad decisions and the uncertain ones.
Being a contract killer for over a decade, how could he not?
A legendary former Army sniper, paired with an enormous build, he is the perfect weapon.
At least that’s what he thinks the world sees him as; until a mission lands in his lap that destroys this perception.
“Nightmare.” “Weapon.” “Machine.”
“A dog.”
The one thing he never wanted to be.
“Ruby is… a woman of the people. A female Robin Hood, if you will.”
Lurking in the shadows of homes, or disguised in the corners of dimly-lit casinos, Ruby has one mission, one singular purpose.
Protect and help the less fortunate.
Armed with traditional shinobi techniques and skills, Ruby’s job is to bring hope and salvation to the vulnerable.
Through casino heists, home robberies, and galas, she uses her beauty and tact to seduce wealthy scumbags out of their exorbitant riches.
But when a skull-masked Assassin threatens to thwart her plans, she finds herself working with the same evil that she’s been fighting against.
Can they put their differences aside and work together before the gluttonous tycoons win it all?
Tropes:
- Grumpy x Grumpier
- "Pierced"
- Black Cat x Doberman
- Skull-Masked Hit Man
- Enemies to Lovers
- "The enemy of my enemy is my friend."
- Slow Burn
His Heart to Steal is a dark romance set in Las Vegas and intended for mature audiences only.
- GenresRomanceDark Romance
745 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 26, 2026
About the author
Aurora Steinhart
8 books79 followersGrowing up in Alaska, Aurora indulged in a variety of outdoor past times. Canoeing on lakes, snowmachining in her backyard, mountain biking through the wilderness and trails around Anchorage.
She grew up as an Air Force daughter and had an affinity for books at a relatively early age. Being enthralled by history and ancient egypt. She was a proficient reader and writer all throughout school.
With her interest growing in the works of macabre and dark poetry, like that from Edgar Allen Poe.
Over time, she wrote poems. Read to her hearts content.
For a long while, she slipped into a reading hiatus. Still continuing to collect books and frequent her local Barnes and Noble.
It wasn't until right before her husband deployed in 2023 that she fell back in love with reading like a star falling from the cosmos.
Collecting more history books in a 4 month period than one should be allowed to.
In the beginning of 2024, she started reading romance after being introduced to Fourth Wing and A Court of Thorns and Roses.
She had never been one for romances. But she fell in love with them. Reading over 36 romance novels in the span of 3 months.
One fateful day in June 2024, a friend of hers came to her asking for help on a story he was writing. Asking for help with a conflict.
The more her mind worked, the more her own story idea started to take place within her.
Before she knew it, Elevated Ambitions was born. And she set out on her biggest journey yet.
She grew up as an Air Force daughter and had an affinity for books at a relatively early age. Being enthralled by history and ancient egypt. She was a proficient reader and writer all throughout school.
With her interest growing in the works of macabre and dark poetry, like that from Edgar Allen Poe.
Over time, she wrote poems. Read to her hearts content.
For a long while, she slipped into a reading hiatus. Still continuing to collect books and frequent her local Barnes and Noble.
It wasn't until right before her husband deployed in 2023 that she fell back in love with reading like a star falling from the cosmos.
Collecting more history books in a 4 month period than one should be allowed to.
In the beginning of 2024, she started reading romance after being introduced to Fourth Wing and A Court of Thorns and Roses.
She had never been one for romances. But she fell in love with them. Reading over 36 romance novels in the span of 3 months.
One fateful day in June 2024, a friend of hers came to her asking for help on a story he was writing. Asking for help with a conflict.
The more her mind worked, the more her own story idea started to take place within her.
Before she knew it, Elevated Ambitions was born. And she set out on her biggest journey yet.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
June 29, 2026
Slow Burn, high intensity. This is a chunker of a book! Ruby is a Robin Hood, who targets the spoiled, over opulent, self-indulgent, entitled rich of Las Vegas (residents and visitors) who are unconcerned by the under served, underprivileged population, human and animal of the city. Things are going relatively smoothly until one night puts a target on her back. The contract killer, Scythe, sent to retrieve something she took and leave her for dead, just can't pull the trigger.
The banter and eventual heat changes both of their lives. I enjoyed the chemistry between them, along with Reaper, was entertaining to read. I will say there was some, all be it will written, portions that probably made the book longer than necessary, but I couldn't really tell you where to cut it out. I can see why it was there. It is similar to the world building in fantasy books, but with these character's thoughts and feelings.
The last portion of the book and ending was intense. You know something is going to happen, but are left with your mouth gaping anyway.
The banter and eventual heat changes both of their lives. I enjoyed the chemistry between them, along with Reaper, was entertaining to read. I will say there was some, all be it will written, portions that probably made the book longer than necessary, but I couldn't really tell you where to cut it out. I can see why it was there. It is similar to the world building in fantasy books, but with these character's thoughts and feelings.
The last portion of the book and ending was intense. You know something is going to happen, but are left with your mouth gaping anyway.
June 26, 2026
4.5 stars for me.
Scythe- a assasin ,and Ruby,a thief could not be more different.When their paths crosses there's only one way to survive-together.
Full of darkness and spice this read was something else.I liked the plot and characters,Ruby took a little bit longer for me to warm up to her,but once I understand her coldness it was something that make me get her.Full of dark topics there was no way to be bored,add the banter and bloody romance this was a great introduction for me and the second book can't come fast enough.Spice,naughty MMC that also can be sweet what more could I want?The end it was just enough horrible that I want book 2 now:)
Thank you author for arc,my review is honest and my own.
Scythe- a assasin ,and Ruby,a thief could not be more different.When their paths crosses there's only one way to survive-together.
Full of darkness and spice this read was something else.I liked the plot and characters,Ruby took a little bit longer for me to warm up to her,but once I understand her coldness it was something that make me get her.Full of dark topics there was no way to be bored,add the banter and bloody romance this was a great introduction for me and the second book can't come fast enough.Spice,naughty MMC that also can be sweet what more could I want?The end it was just enough horrible that I want book 2 now:)
Thank you author for arc,my review is honest and my own.
June 9, 2026
4.5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ & 3 🌶️🌶️🌶️. First of all, this was my first book I have read by this author. I adored the writing style and the way the characters were written too. The plot is pretty basic on the surface level with the assassin sent to kill a target and their chemistry blah blah but I was still hooked from the beginning.
The FMC Ruby in this is both strong, independent, sassy and bad-ass but also so problematic. These two together are a riot.
I loved their banter and snark towards the beginning half of this book. Their dynamic was hilariously entertaining to watch. About the halfway mark the dynamic start to change to a more serious, somewhat trauma unwinding passionate and toxic mix. But when I tell you I was SAT while watching it unfold it’s not an understatement.
The final parts of the book solidified our characters new unit and I enjoyed what they eventually become. We even got a pet cameo. I could sense right at the end that the “muck was about to hit the fan” so to speak. Everything was far too… perfect for my liking. And then it hit. That ENDING!?!? AURORA! Sequel yesterday please?
Thanks to the author and the wings & words community for the advanced copy and this review has been left honestly and voluntarily.
The FMC Ruby in this is both strong, independent, sassy and bad-ass but also so problematic. These two together are a riot.
I loved their banter and snark towards the beginning half of this book. Their dynamic was hilariously entertaining to watch. About the halfway mark the dynamic start to change to a more serious, somewhat trauma unwinding passionate and toxic mix. But when I tell you I was SAT while watching it unfold it’s not an understatement.
The final parts of the book solidified our characters new unit and I enjoyed what they eventually become. We even got a pet cameo. I could sense right at the end that the “muck was about to hit the fan” so to speak. Everything was far too… perfect for my liking. And then it hit. That ENDING!?!? AURORA! Sequel yesterday please?
Thanks to the author and the wings & words community for the advanced copy and this review has been left honestly and voluntarily.
June 29, 2026
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.5 rounded),
I read this in a heatwave, but I can tell you that the book was hotter. What did I just read? Aurora has a way of hitting you with humour, followed by steaming spice to then give you whiplash with devestating character development. The chapter where you finally get a flashback to Nobu hits you with all the big feels. Then Skipper. You know how to get me good.
The three way chats between Reaper, Scythe and Ruby are fantastic insights to the pettiness of the enemy to lovers arc, and I'm living for it. Reaper is 100% the best character. I would read a spin off of his adventures. My only criticism would be that the enemy to lovers felt a bit too slow burny, but that's just me personally.
King. What is this delicious gem of a man you have thrown my way. In that first meeting I absolutely was Ruby and the fact that you did that so early on in the book was just not fair. The fact that there is a universe with the Suits is super exciting! I'm so reading to hear the biker story...
I came for the shibari, stayed for the brat.
But the biggest question - Is Scythe 6"4 or 6"8? Because we sure AF know he wasn't lying about the size of something else...
Thank you to Aurora for gifting me this ARC and also to the Wings & Words for making me aware of such a fantastic book! This review has been given voluntarily.
I read this in a heatwave, but I can tell you that the book was hotter. What did I just read? Aurora has a way of hitting you with humour, followed by steaming spice to then give you whiplash with devestating character development. The chapter where you finally get a flashback to Nobu hits you with all the big feels. Then Skipper. You know how to get me good.
The three way chats between Reaper, Scythe and Ruby are fantastic insights to the pettiness of the enemy to lovers arc, and I'm living for it. Reaper is 100% the best character. I would read a spin off of his adventures. My only criticism would be that the enemy to lovers felt a bit too slow burny, but that's just me personally.
King. What is this delicious gem of a man you have thrown my way. In that first meeting I absolutely was Ruby and the fact that you did that so early on in the book was just not fair. The fact that there is a universe with the Suits is super exciting! I'm so reading to hear the biker story...
I came for the shibari, stayed for the brat.
But the biggest question - Is Scythe 6"4 or 6"8? Because we sure AF know he wasn't lying about the size of something else...
Thank you to Aurora for gifting me this ARC and also to the Wings & Words for making me aware of such a fantastic book! This review has been given voluntarily.
June 6, 2026
Wow! I am so thankful I was picked for this arc read because IT IS SO FREAKING GOOD! 😭🤩 The FMC Ruby is such a firecracker but also so incredibly strong for all she’s been through in her past. Her character arc is one of my favorites I’ve ever read. And the MMC SCYTHE?! Yeah he’s my new book husband because dammmmnnnn I just loved him 🥵 This was a TRUE enemies-to-lovers trope and the dynamic/sexual tension/fiery banter between the two of them was literally the best. Also I feel like everyone needs a friend like Reaper, he cracked me up lol. The storyline sucked me in so fast and I just think Aurora has such a mastery of the craft of writing and this book was pure gold! I cannot rave enough about this and will be so excited for the next!
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
I dove into His Heart to Steal knowing it was a dark romance debut, and it absolutely delivered on the intensity. I’d read a few of the authors other books (and loved) so I couldn’t wait to see how they would handle dark romance.
Set against the glittering, gritty backdrop of Las Vegas, this enemies to lovers story follows Scythe, a massive, skull masked former Army sniper turned contract killer, and Ruby, a clever, shinobi trained vigilante who plays modern day Robin Hood by stealing from the rich to help the vulnerable. (I can hear my dark heart already cheering.)
Scythe lives by his mantra, “Once a weapon, always a weapon” and has fully embraced his role as an unstoppable force for over a decade. Morally grey ✔️ (what more do I need or say?!)
Ruby operates in the shadows, using her wits, beauty, and skills to seduce and rob corrupt tycoons. Their first meeting had me in stitches.
When their paths collide on a mission, the sparks fly in the most antagonistic way possible.
What starts as opposition turns into a reluctant alliance against a bigger threat, forcing them to confront their own perceptions and walls.
Scythe’s internal struggle is compelling. He sees himself as nothing more than a nightmare or a dog on a leash, and watching the image he has of himself crack as Ruby challenges him felt raw and earned. He’s the ultimate grumpy, pierced MMC, intimidating, lethal, but with layers that make you ache for him.
Ruby is a fierce black cat FMC who gives as good as she gets, her strength, moral code, and refusal to back down make her incredibly likable and fun to root for. It made a nice change to have a strong female that didn’t need rescuing.
The slow burn tension is chef’s kiss. The banter, the forced proximity, and the “enemy of my enemy” dynamic build beautifully into steamy, charged moments.
It’s dark romance through and through, you can expect morally gray characters, violence, high stakes, and spice that matches the intensity of their world. The Las Vegas setting adds flair, with casino heists and shadowy galas keeping the plot moving.
This is a duet, so it ends on a note that will have you immediately reaching for book 2. Sadly it’s not ready yet 😩 Would I call it a cliffhanger? Well, where we leave Ruby and the conditions she was in …. I’d say YES!!
Overall, Aurora Steinhart’s debut dark romance book is a strong, atmospheric start to The Executioner Duet.
If you love dark romance with a masked antihero, a badass FMC who steals more than just money, gritty action, and sizzling enemies to lovers heat, this one is for you.
Check those trigger warnings, it doesn’t pull punches, but it’s worth it for the ride.
Can’t wait to see how their story concludes!
🦋
Set against the glittering, gritty backdrop of Las Vegas, this enemies to lovers story follows Scythe, a massive, skull masked former Army sniper turned contract killer, and Ruby, a clever, shinobi trained vigilante who plays modern day Robin Hood by stealing from the rich to help the vulnerable. (I can hear my dark heart already cheering.)
Scythe lives by his mantra, “Once a weapon, always a weapon” and has fully embraced his role as an unstoppable force for over a decade. Morally grey ✔️ (what more do I need or say?!)
Ruby operates in the shadows, using her wits, beauty, and skills to seduce and rob corrupt tycoons. Their first meeting had me in stitches.
When their paths collide on a mission, the sparks fly in the most antagonistic way possible.
What starts as opposition turns into a reluctant alliance against a bigger threat, forcing them to confront their own perceptions and walls.
Scythe’s internal struggle is compelling. He sees himself as nothing more than a nightmare or a dog on a leash, and watching the image he has of himself crack as Ruby challenges him felt raw and earned. He’s the ultimate grumpy, pierced MMC, intimidating, lethal, but with layers that make you ache for him.
Ruby is a fierce black cat FMC who gives as good as she gets, her strength, moral code, and refusal to back down make her incredibly likable and fun to root for. It made a nice change to have a strong female that didn’t need rescuing.
The slow burn tension is chef’s kiss. The banter, the forced proximity, and the “enemy of my enemy” dynamic build beautifully into steamy, charged moments.
It’s dark romance through and through, you can expect morally gray characters, violence, high stakes, and spice that matches the intensity of their world. The Las Vegas setting adds flair, with casino heists and shadowy galas keeping the plot moving.
This is a duet, so it ends on a note that will have you immediately reaching for book 2. Sadly it’s not ready yet 😩 Would I call it a cliffhanger? Well, where we leave Ruby and the conditions she was in …. I’d say YES!!
Overall, Aurora Steinhart’s debut dark romance book is a strong, atmospheric start to The Executioner Duet.
If you love dark romance with a masked antihero, a badass FMC who steals more than just money, gritty action, and sizzling enemies to lovers heat, this one is for you.
Check those trigger warnings, it doesn’t pull punches, but it’s worth it for the ride.
Can’t wait to see how their story concludes!
🦋
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was so happy to get to ARC read this. This story was a ride in the best possible way. I'm gonna ramble, but long and short of it is: I loved it and you will too. Very much black cat meets doberman for sure but like....the doberman is coming off anesthesia. She barely tolerates him and he's kinda goofy, but will still rip someone's head off with ease.
Ruby is a certified badass, Robin Hood style queen just looking out for everyone she possibly can, the beings who truly need the help. Huge heart and so protective of it. Then freaking Scythe shows up and puts his whole (probably size 15...16?) boot in her program. Scythe is a giant pain in her ass and he knows it. Honestly chuckled every time he appeared. They are both so deadly and so freaking hot! The tension. The dramaaaaaa. The will-they-won't-they. It's delectable.
The way the two of them are crafted is excellent. Your heart bleeds for Ruby and Scythe while they work through their trauma, and the way it's slowly revealed throughout the story....It's hard to find the words but it's beautiful and painful all at once. The Las Vegas in this story has some true parallels compared to the real life version, and it is gut-wrenching. I find myself thinking about this book all the time.
I cannot forget about Reaper. I love him so much. Reaper is very much the spooky lil devil on Scythe's shoulder. Sarcastic & cynical, knows a liiiitle too much, but truly ride or die - as long as he can pay for his servers, that is. He's probably traumatized by their antics, but at least he's paid well for his trouble. I found myself waiting for more of Reap whenever he was gone for too long, which is wild, considering how good Ruby and Scythe already are!
Fair warning - the cliff is INTENSE at the end of this book (it's evil to end THERE honestly) but I'll rock with it. (WHY CRUEL WORLD) I know it'll get handled. In the next book. (No I'm not crying about it, why do you ask?) This is one of those cliffhangers where the story absolutely made it worth it - though I did audibly shout "are you kidding me" when I got to the end. Round of applause to Aurora Steinhart again. LOVED the dedication. Love the writing. Love it all. Slam dunk. I'll be here patiently waiting for the next one.
Ruby is a certified badass, Robin Hood style queen just looking out for everyone she possibly can, the beings who truly need the help. Huge heart and so protective of it. Then freaking Scythe shows up and puts his whole (probably size 15...16?) boot in her program. Scythe is a giant pain in her ass and he knows it. Honestly chuckled every time he appeared. They are both so deadly and so freaking hot! The tension. The dramaaaaaa. The will-they-won't-they. It's delectable.
The way the two of them are crafted is excellent. Your heart bleeds for Ruby and Scythe while they work through their trauma, and the way it's slowly revealed throughout the story....It's hard to find the words but it's beautiful and painful all at once. The Las Vegas in this story has some true parallels compared to the real life version, and it is gut-wrenching. I find myself thinking about this book all the time.
I cannot forget about Reaper. I love him so much. Reaper is very much the spooky lil devil on Scythe's shoulder. Sarcastic & cynical, knows a liiiitle too much, but truly ride or die - as long as he can pay for his servers, that is. He's probably traumatized by their antics, but at least he's paid well for his trouble. I found myself waiting for more of Reap whenever he was gone for too long, which is wild, considering how good Ruby and Scythe already are!
Fair warning - the cliff is INTENSE at the end of this book (it's evil to end THERE honestly) but I'll rock with it. (WHY CRUEL WORLD) I know it'll get handled. In the next book. (No I'm not crying about it, why do you ask?) This is one of those cliffhangers where the story absolutely made it worth it - though I did audibly shout "are you kidding me" when I got to the end. Round of applause to Aurora Steinhart again. LOVED the dedication. Love the writing. Love it all. Slam dunk. I'll be here patiently waiting for the next one.
July 3, 2026
⭐⭐⭐⭐✨ 4.5 Stars (rounded up)
This was my first Aurora Steinhart book and it definitely won't be my last. His Heart to Steal completely pulled me in with its mix of action, humour, spice and two characters who absolutely refused to get along... until they did.
Scythe was everything I want in a dark romance MMC - masked, morally grey, dangerous, intimidating and somehow still ridiculously swoon-worthy. He's the perfect balance of lethal and surprisingly sweet and I was obsessed with him from the start.
Ruby took me a little longer to connect with, but once I understood why she kept everyone at arm's length, I was completely on her side. She's fierce, independent, stubborn and more than capable of holding her own, which made her a great match for Scythe.
The enemies to lovers tension was so much fun. The banter had me laughing, the chemistry was undeniable and every interaction between them had me wanting "just one more chapter." The slow burn was absolutely worth it and when the romance finally took off... let's just say the spice delivered.
I also have to give a special mention to Reaper because he stole every scene he was in. His humour was the perfect contrast to the darker moments and he quickly became one of my favourite side characters.
The story itself kept me hooked with plenty of action, danger and twists, while the Las Vegas setting gave everything a really fun backdrop. It tackles some darker themes, so definitely check the trigger warnings beforehand, but the balance of emotion, tension and humour worked really well for me.
The only reason this wasn't a full five stars was that it took me a little while to fully connect with Ruby and there were a couple of moments where I wanted the romance to move just a touch quicker.
Overall, this was an addictive, spicy dark romance with fantastic chemistry, memorable characters, and enough tension to keep me glued to the pages. If you love masked morally grey MMCs, badass FMCs, genuine enemies to lovers and a story full of action and spice, I'd definitely recommend picking this one up.
Now excuse me while I impatiently wait for book two 😂
Thank you to the author and the wings & words community for the advanced copy. This review has been left honestly and voluntarily.
This was my first Aurora Steinhart book and it definitely won't be my last. His Heart to Steal completely pulled me in with its mix of action, humour, spice and two characters who absolutely refused to get along... until they did.
Scythe was everything I want in a dark romance MMC - masked, morally grey, dangerous, intimidating and somehow still ridiculously swoon-worthy. He's the perfect balance of lethal and surprisingly sweet and I was obsessed with him from the start.
Ruby took me a little longer to connect with, but once I understood why she kept everyone at arm's length, I was completely on her side. She's fierce, independent, stubborn and more than capable of holding her own, which made her a great match for Scythe.
The enemies to lovers tension was so much fun. The banter had me laughing, the chemistry was undeniable and every interaction between them had me wanting "just one more chapter." The slow burn was absolutely worth it and when the romance finally took off... let's just say the spice delivered.
I also have to give a special mention to Reaper because he stole every scene he was in. His humour was the perfect contrast to the darker moments and he quickly became one of my favourite side characters.
The story itself kept me hooked with plenty of action, danger and twists, while the Las Vegas setting gave everything a really fun backdrop. It tackles some darker themes, so definitely check the trigger warnings beforehand, but the balance of emotion, tension and humour worked really well for me.
The only reason this wasn't a full five stars was that it took me a little while to fully connect with Ruby and there were a couple of moments where I wanted the romance to move just a touch quicker.
Overall, this was an addictive, spicy dark romance with fantastic chemistry, memorable characters, and enough tension to keep me glued to the pages. If you love masked morally grey MMCs, badass FMCs, genuine enemies to lovers and a story full of action and spice, I'd definitely recommend picking this one up.
Now excuse me while I impatiently wait for book two 😂
Thank you to the author and the wings & words community for the advanced copy. This review has been left honestly and voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Author
His Heart To Steal by @author.aurorasteinhart , thanks to Aurora & Wings & words for this ARC, this is 100% the biggest boy I've read this year, but OMG SO GOOD😬‼️‼️‼️
His Heart To Steal is a Dark Romance by Aurora Steinhart.
This gets a huge 6 stars from me.
I am a huge fan of Aurora's work & writing, I found her through her The Lady & The Stag Sports Romance (Checked & Balanced)
But this, offtty, it comes with spice & a shopping list (trigger warnings) and it just ticked every box for me in EVERY way.
Triggers include:- S€xual Assau!t - Murd€r (Accidental and intentional) - Dismemb€rment - Rotted C0rpse - Mishandling of a r0tted c0rpse - Drugg!ng - K!dnapping - BD$M/R0pe play/Restra!ning - Intox!cation - T0rture - Ars0n (including but not limited to; humän burn!ng, house burn!ng and other illicit uses of 🔥) - Explos!ons - Mentions of S€x Slav€ activities - D€ath thr€ats (with and without a weap0n) - Jealous rage - Mentions of D0mestic V!olence resulting in murd€r - Moments of disassociation due to PTSD.
HHTS was ABSOLUTELY incredible like. Yo..I am just ugh, im reeling...I need more. The emotion, the turmoil, that ending - Aurora we so need words.....I think thats the quickest I've read a 500+ paged book in a while!!! I...processing....reeling... its seriously going to be rent free thats 1000% for certain.
Ruby is such an AMAZING fierce badass FMC, the opening of the book blow my mind and I'm like okayyyy, you cant top this. But damn if you didnt slamdunk the whole ball and net into the next millennium Aurora 👀😭
And the MMC Maverick/Scythe HOT DAMMMMMN fire burning heats of hell. Hes totally my new book husband *gimme all the pics!*...
This story was the truest form of enemies to lovers and im totally here for a "fuck you like you hate me".. 👀🥵😝🤣🤣🤣... & everyone needs a reaper in their life he was amazing and 100% the best side character like ever.
I can confirm, I need every version & special edition of this book, k please thanks Mrs Aurora. I KNOW you've kinda already got a release date for book 2 but im dying right now?......
#hhts #aurorasteinhart #darkromance #enemiestolovers
His Heart To Steal is a Dark Romance by Aurora Steinhart.
This gets a huge 6 stars from me.
I am a huge fan of Aurora's work & writing, I found her through her The Lady & The Stag Sports Romance (Checked & Balanced)
But this, offtty, it comes with spice & a shopping list (trigger warnings) and it just ticked every box for me in EVERY way.
Triggers include:- S€xual Assau!t - Murd€r (Accidental and intentional) - Dismemb€rment - Rotted C0rpse - Mishandling of a r0tted c0rpse - Drugg!ng - K!dnapping - BD$M/R0pe play/Restra!ning - Intox!cation - T0rture - Ars0n (including but not limited to; humän burn!ng, house burn!ng and other illicit uses of 🔥) - Explos!ons - Mentions of S€x Slav€ activities - D€ath thr€ats (with and without a weap0n) - Jealous rage - Mentions of D0mestic V!olence resulting in murd€r - Moments of disassociation due to PTSD.
HHTS was ABSOLUTELY incredible like. Yo..I am just ugh, im reeling...I need more. The emotion, the turmoil, that ending - Aurora we so need words.....I think thats the quickest I've read a 500+ paged book in a while!!! I...processing....reeling... its seriously going to be rent free thats 1000% for certain.
Ruby is such an AMAZING fierce badass FMC, the opening of the book blow my mind and I'm like okayyyy, you cant top this. But damn if you didnt slamdunk the whole ball and net into the next millennium Aurora 👀😭
And the MMC Maverick/Scythe HOT DAMMMMMN fire burning heats of hell. Hes totally my new book husband *gimme all the pics!*...
This story was the truest form of enemies to lovers and im totally here for a "fuck you like you hate me".. 👀🥵😝🤣🤣🤣... & everyone needs a reaper in their life he was amazing and 100% the best side character like ever.
I can confirm, I need every version & special edition of this book, k please thanks Mrs Aurora. I KNOW you've kinda already got a release date for book 2 but im dying right now?......
#hhts #aurorasteinhart #darkromance #enemiestolovers
Review of advance copy
If you like men in masks, mafia vibes, dark tension, delicious slow burn & a feisty FMC then I would recommend you grab a copy of this book sooner rather than later!
I absolutely LOVED this book, it has everything, backstory, strong backbone of a plot line, tension, spice, relatable characters, warped humour & all of it takes place in the glamourous, yet gritty location of Las Vegas's & it's criminal underworld.
You have the main characters of Scythe (MMC), the brooding morally grey giant who many readers will drool over! & Ruby (FMC), whose quirky, independent & basically a ninja! Both strong characters, with heart as they of had to harden their hearts over the years due to trauma they've experienced, but it gives their characters so much depth & relatability. They come together under unusual circumstances where they are surrounded by robberies & murder & that's when the story really kicks into gear. Then you have Reaper whose on comms, who for me in many places of the story stole the show with their comical one-liners & verbal disgust, that they were not shy in relating to the main characters through their ear-pieces.
Yes it's a slow burn & it will have you dangling till way over the half way mark of the book, but it is brilliantly done & you won't be disappointed on the spice! (check your triggers). Pacing was pretty good going between mid & fast & flowing really well so you don't realise how much you've read, many will devour this book. Is there an underlying message - absolutely it's like a modern day Robin Hood of stealing from the rich for the poor & who doesn't love that message!
Overall, a fabulous read for lovers of dark romance with tension & hot, hot character dynamics then I'd recommend this book, personally I can't wait for the 2nd book in this duet - especially after that ending!
** Thank you to Wings & Words for giving me a free e-copy of this book, I am leaving this review voluntarily **
I absolutely LOVED this book, it has everything, backstory, strong backbone of a plot line, tension, spice, relatable characters, warped humour & all of it takes place in the glamourous, yet gritty location of Las Vegas's & it's criminal underworld.
You have the main characters of Scythe (MMC), the brooding morally grey giant who many readers will drool over! & Ruby (FMC), whose quirky, independent & basically a ninja! Both strong characters, with heart as they of had to harden their hearts over the years due to trauma they've experienced, but it gives their characters so much depth & relatability. They come together under unusual circumstances where they are surrounded by robberies & murder & that's when the story really kicks into gear. Then you have Reaper whose on comms, who for me in many places of the story stole the show with their comical one-liners & verbal disgust, that they were not shy in relating to the main characters through their ear-pieces.
Yes it's a slow burn & it will have you dangling till way over the half way mark of the book, but it is brilliantly done & you won't be disappointed on the spice! (check your triggers). Pacing was pretty good going between mid & fast & flowing really well so you don't realise how much you've read, many will devour this book. Is there an underlying message - absolutely it's like a modern day Robin Hood of stealing from the rich for the poor & who doesn't love that message!
Overall, a fabulous read for lovers of dark romance with tension & hot, hot character dynamics then I'd recommend this book, personally I can't wait for the 2nd book in this duet - especially after that ending!
** Thank you to Wings & Words for giving me a free e-copy of this book, I am leaving this review voluntarily **
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was excited to receive His Heart to Steal as an ARC - and from the moment I picked it up I knew it was going to be my bag!!
A masked MMC who, despite his job, is stinkingly adorable, a villainous FMC with as much sass as you could ever wish for, and a third wheel (Reaper) who is an absolute ride or die kind of guy. The dynamics between the MMC and Reaper are in equal parts endearing and hilarious, and their bond remains in tact, despite at times I'm sure, Reaper audibly witnessing things he'd much rather not!!
This is an absolute enemy to lovers story 🔥, where the MMC falls first, and falls hard - for a girl who, through her actions, shows there is honour in the unconventional (a modern day Robin Hood if you will). Given his role as an assassin, it's no wonder there is a very strong touch her you die element, but it comes from a place of absolute adoration, when he says to her "Its easy to be a gentleman to the most incredible woman I've ever met" I swear my heart was in shreds 😍
As the book unfolds, both MCs unpack significant historical trauma, but in the process, start to heal not only themselves, but each other.
There are moments in the book that had me shrieking with delight, but there are also some very tender, gentle passages that show depth to the characters, and also reflect on modern society and the vast wealth gap that exists.
His Heart to Steal contains quite a few triggers (including murder, torture, kidnap, arson, rope play) yet nothing felt overly gratuitous.
The ending is a banger of a cliff hanger 😮, and there is absolutely no doubt the follow up will be straight on my TBR list 📖
If spicy (🌶️🌶️🌶️) dark romance reads with a FMC that gives as good as she gets and a MMC that's falls hard, you absolutely need His Heart to Steal on your shelf 📚
#HHTS #DarkRomance #AuroraSteinhart
A masked MMC who, despite his job, is stinkingly adorable, a villainous FMC with as much sass as you could ever wish for, and a third wheel (Reaper) who is an absolute ride or die kind of guy. The dynamics between the MMC and Reaper are in equal parts endearing and hilarious, and their bond remains in tact, despite at times I'm sure, Reaper audibly witnessing things he'd much rather not!!
This is an absolute enemy to lovers story 🔥, where the MMC falls first, and falls hard - for a girl who, through her actions, shows there is honour in the unconventional (a modern day Robin Hood if you will). Given his role as an assassin, it's no wonder there is a very strong touch her you die element, but it comes from a place of absolute adoration, when he says to her "Its easy to be a gentleman to the most incredible woman I've ever met" I swear my heart was in shreds 😍
As the book unfolds, both MCs unpack significant historical trauma, but in the process, start to heal not only themselves, but each other.
There are moments in the book that had me shrieking with delight, but there are also some very tender, gentle passages that show depth to the characters, and also reflect on modern society and the vast wealth gap that exists.
His Heart to Steal contains quite a few triggers (including murder, torture, kidnap, arson, rope play) yet nothing felt overly gratuitous.
The ending is a banger of a cliff hanger 😮, and there is absolutely no doubt the follow up will be straight on my TBR list 📖
If spicy (🌶️🌶️🌶️) dark romance reads with a FMC that gives as good as she gets and a MMC that's falls hard, you absolutely need His Heart to Steal on your shelf 📚
#HHTS #DarkRomance #AuroraSteinhart
July 3, 2026
ARC review
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I honestly don’t even know where to start because I am OBSESSED.
This book had me hooked from page one. I’m not exaggerating when I say I didn't want to finish it because i love Ruby and Scythe (and Reaper) so much.
Ruby (Giovanna)… I LOVE HER. She has officially become one of my favourite FMCs ever. She’s strong, funny, resilient, chaotic in the best way, and i love her similarities to Robin Hood (steal from the rich) she's iconic.
And then there’s Scythe… a 6’8” assassin wears a skull mask ANNDDD has a military background (hot hot hot). Some of his thoughts about loneliness genuinely hit home for me, and I loved how much depth he had beyond being the "big scary killer".
a quote that really stuck out for me-
"I've realized as I stand here looking out at the copse of trees on this hill, that not only do I have a lot of work to do. I've got a lot of work to do on my own. Again. I have no real plan for my future. I don't even really want to do anything. I just want to enjoy life. I want my existence to make sense."
Also… the pierced 🍆. That’s all.
There was so much about this book that I loved and resonated with, I genuinely think I highlighted half the book because there were so many quotes that made me stop and think.
The character development was probably my favourite part as i loved watching Scythe slowly change his ways and wanting more because of Ruby. Somehow this book even made me feel like I wanted to be a better person by the end.
And chapter 42… I can’t explain it. It just felt like reading happiness.🤭
Then THAT ENDING??? The cliffhanger!!?? I NEED book two immediately.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I honestly don’t even know where to start because I am OBSESSED.
This book had me hooked from page one. I’m not exaggerating when I say I didn't want to finish it because i love Ruby and Scythe (and Reaper) so much.
Ruby (Giovanna)… I LOVE HER. She has officially become one of my favourite FMCs ever. She’s strong, funny, resilient, chaotic in the best way, and i love her similarities to Robin Hood (steal from the rich) she's iconic.
And then there’s Scythe… a 6’8” assassin wears a skull mask ANNDDD has a military background (hot hot hot). Some of his thoughts about loneliness genuinely hit home for me, and I loved how much depth he had beyond being the "big scary killer".
a quote that really stuck out for me-
"I've realized as I stand here looking out at the copse of trees on this hill, that not only do I have a lot of work to do. I've got a lot of work to do on my own. Again. I have no real plan for my future. I don't even really want to do anything. I just want to enjoy life. I want my existence to make sense."
Also… the pierced 🍆. That’s all.
There was so much about this book that I loved and resonated with, I genuinely think I highlighted half the book because there were so many quotes that made me stop and think.
The character development was probably my favourite part as i loved watching Scythe slowly change his ways and wanting more because of Ruby. Somehow this book even made me feel like I wanted to be a better person by the end.
And chapter 42… I can’t explain it. It just felt like reading happiness.🤭
Then THAT ENDING??? The cliffhanger!!?? I NEED book two immediately.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This had me hooked from the very beginning. The author does a fantastic job of giving both main characters emotional depth very early on. Ruby struggles with socioeconomic disparities, seeing people struggle for basic necessities while the rich enjoy lavish events at everyone else's expense. Scythe combats his military service, giving a sense of uncertainty towards what he thought he was joining for and what he realizes he was used for. It was incredibly refreshing to see an MMC acknowledging these feelings towards the service, and I think the author captured the mutual longing for the sense of strong comrade with realization of issues within the military structure. That was representation I didn't know I needed until now!
I loved that both characters were incredibly strong but not infallibly so. They're driven, but also shackled, by their trauma. There's some back and forth, hot and cold, dynamic at play because of that, which would usually be a turn off for me, but WOW was it done right in this book. Nothing here felt like a plot device or a moment of convenience.
The spice takes a bit to come in, which I actually appreciated for this story.
That cliffhanger...girl... I'm desperate for book two. My heart breaks for both of them so much.
TLDR: amazing read! Highly, highly recommend.
I loved that both characters were incredibly strong but not infallibly so. They're driven, but also shackled, by their trauma. There's some back and forth, hot and cold, dynamic at play because of that, which would usually be a turn off for me, but WOW was it done right in this book. Nothing here felt like a plot device or a moment of convenience.
The spice takes a bit to come in, which I actually appreciated for this story.
That cliffhanger...girl... I'm desperate for book two. My heart breaks for both of them so much.
TLDR: amazing read! Highly, highly recommend.
July 2, 2026
4.5 Stars
If you love a book that completely consumes your life, look no further. Clocking in at a chunky 700+ pages, His Heart to Steal by Aurora Steinhart is an action-packed, high-stakes ride that I absolutely devoured. The story introduces us to Ruby, a fierce heroine who gives off major modern-day Robin Hood vibes. She’s pulling off a hustle in Las Vegas when a job goes horribly sideways, instantly painting a massive target on her back. Enter Scythe: an ex-military "gun for hire" contracted to hunt Ruby down, retrieve what she stole, and put a stop to her antics permanently. But from the moment their worlds collide, absolutely nothing goes according to plan.
The pacing of this book is incredible, and despite its length, the action-heavy plot never drags. The suspense kept me on the edge of my seat, but it’s the agonizing, delicious slow burn that really stole the show. The banter and chemistry between Ruby and Scythe are top-tier, and the dialogue becomes even more elite when Scythe's associate, Reaper, gets involved. Their three-way conversations had me laughing out loud and added the perfect dynamic to a dark, intense plot.
My only grievance? Aurora, why did you do this to us?! That cliffhanger absolutely ruined me. Honestly, this book could have been 1,000+ pages and I still would have read every single word just to avoid the agony of waiting for Book 2. I need answers, and I need them now!
If you want a thick, suspenseful, dark romantic thriller with incredible characters and a romance that will make you ache, pick this up immediately. Just prepare your heart for that ending.
📢 A massive thank you to Wings and Words for providing me with access to this Advanced Reader Copy (ARC). All opinions are entirely my own!
If you love a book that completely consumes your life, look no further. Clocking in at a chunky 700+ pages, His Heart to Steal by Aurora Steinhart is an action-packed, high-stakes ride that I absolutely devoured. The story introduces us to Ruby, a fierce heroine who gives off major modern-day Robin Hood vibes. She’s pulling off a hustle in Las Vegas when a job goes horribly sideways, instantly painting a massive target on her back. Enter Scythe: an ex-military "gun for hire" contracted to hunt Ruby down, retrieve what she stole, and put a stop to her antics permanently. But from the moment their worlds collide, absolutely nothing goes according to plan.
The pacing of this book is incredible, and despite its length, the action-heavy plot never drags. The suspense kept me on the edge of my seat, but it’s the agonizing, delicious slow burn that really stole the show. The banter and chemistry between Ruby and Scythe are top-tier, and the dialogue becomes even more elite when Scythe's associate, Reaper, gets involved. Their three-way conversations had me laughing out loud and added the perfect dynamic to a dark, intense plot.
My only grievance? Aurora, why did you do this to us?! That cliffhanger absolutely ruined me. Honestly, this book could have been 1,000+ pages and I still would have read every single word just to avoid the agony of waiting for Book 2. I need answers, and I need them now!
If you want a thick, suspenseful, dark romantic thriller with incredible characters and a romance that will make you ache, pick this up immediately. Just prepare your heart for that ending.
📢 A massive thank you to Wings and Words for providing me with access to this Advanced Reader Copy (ARC). All opinions are entirely my own!
June 30, 2026
First of all, I would like to say that I am terribly sorry for the late review. My ass was so slow when I was reading it and I haven’t read a book that was 700 pages long since Onyx Storm came out last year.
Anyways, Thank you Aurora for sending this amazing story in advance. I appreciate it so much.
Okay, WHAT THE FUCK WAS THAT ENDING??!
I was shock by how the suits decided to get back at Maverick like that. His gut feeling of the suits not falling for the whole Ruby is died thing had me dreading how they are going to get back at them. The fact that they did it when Giovanna and Maverick let their guard down was insane.
I hope the Suits get their karma to them once Giovanna and Maverick are able to come up with a plan to get rid of them.
Ugh! I love this book so much. I wished I had the physical copy of it to treasure it. I’m thankful to get this ARC before it was published.
This book is well written and the tension between Giovanna and Maverick??? French kiss 💋. The yearning that Maverick was feeling towards Giovanna was so beautiful to see, honestly. The two got be my favorite couple after Kassandra & Ambrose and Tiana & Gunnar. I’m going to miss them☹️😖
Again. Thank you Aurora for this lovely arc. I’m so thankful to witness these two couple bloom.
Anyways, Thank you Aurora for sending this amazing story in advance. I appreciate it so much.
Okay, WHAT THE FUCK WAS THAT ENDING??!
I was shock by how the suits decided to get back at Maverick like that. His gut feeling of the suits not falling for the whole Ruby is died thing had me dreading how they are going to get back at them. The fact that they did it when Giovanna and Maverick let their guard down was insane.
I hope the Suits get their karma to them once Giovanna and Maverick are able to come up with a plan to get rid of them.
Ugh! I love this book so much. I wished I had the physical copy of it to treasure it. I’m thankful to get this ARC before it was published.
This book is well written and the tension between Giovanna and Maverick??? French kiss 💋. The yearning that Maverick was feeling towards Giovanna was so beautiful to see, honestly. The two got be my favorite couple after Kassandra & Ambrose and Tiana & Gunnar. I’m going to miss them☹️😖
Again. Thank you Aurora for this lovely arc. I’m so thankful to witness these two couple bloom.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 8, 2026
I was lucky enough to receive this book as an ARC!
That cliffhanger omggg I’m on the edge of my seat!! This book was a wild ride from start to finish really. Thank god for the visual compendium or i would have been lost. The characters are so complex and wonderful! It starts off with Ruby my girl and 2012 with a little of her backstory. Then we get Scythe in 2014 with a little backstory as well.
I think Ruby is so interesting. She’s out here being our modern-day Robin Hood trying to help her community. She’s immediately out here accidentally committing crimes that she doesn’t mean to commit, but I support women’s rights and their wrongs.
Scythe I immediately loved ofc. I do love a morally grey man. He’s just out here being an assassin until they have a little meet cute while she’s robbing a house. And he immediately has an existential crisis. I love that for him and that he wants to do better for himself.
when I was reading this my notes say “kidnapping but make it sexy” so i’m sure you get it
Reaper is hilarious and I couldn’t get enough of his and Ruby’s interactions! The yearning throughout this book was insane and i ate it up. Also the storage unit scene was wildd
That cliffhanger omggg I’m on the edge of my seat!! This book was a wild ride from start to finish really. Thank god for the visual compendium or i would have been lost. The characters are so complex and wonderful! It starts off with Ruby my girl and 2012 with a little of her backstory. Then we get Scythe in 2014 with a little backstory as well.
I think Ruby is so interesting. She’s out here being our modern-day Robin Hood trying to help her community. She’s immediately out here accidentally committing crimes that she doesn’t mean to commit, but I support women’s rights and their wrongs.
Scythe I immediately loved ofc. I do love a morally grey man. He’s just out here being an assassin until they have a little meet cute while she’s robbing a house. And he immediately has an existential crisis. I love that for him and that he wants to do better for himself.
when I was reading this my notes say “kidnapping but make it sexy” so i’m sure you get it
Reaper is hilarious and I couldn’t get enough of his and Ruby’s interactions! The yearning throughout this book was insane and i ate it up. Also the storage unit scene was wildd
June 27, 2026
If you’re looking for something that feels like an explosive summer action film, you’re not going to want to miss out on Aurora Steinhart’s His Heart to Steal. It’s a dark contemporary romance featuring an assassin; a female Robin Hood; enemies to lovers; high stakes; high tension; and trust issues. Don’t get me wrong, Ruby and Scythe’s individual story is fascinating because there are reasons why they become the way they are, but there’s definitely more than meets the eye with this one.
The general vibe I got is that despite it being a dark romance, it felt like a love letter...a love letter to change, the past, the people that come and go, all the things that make an individual who they are in the present. This one hit differently and I don’t say that lightly because dark romances are a hit or miss with me. This one hit something very different but also in a way that I can appreciate. I’m looking forward to the next book and I’m eager to see what kind of journey it takes me on.
Thank you so much to Aurora Steinhart for the gifted ARC; I really appreciate you and the stories that you tell! All opinions are my own.
The general vibe I got is that despite it being a dark romance, it felt like a love letter...a love letter to change, the past, the people that come and go, all the things that make an individual who they are in the present. This one hit differently and I don’t say that lightly because dark romances are a hit or miss with me. This one hit something very different but also in a way that I can appreciate. I’m looking forward to the next book and I’m eager to see what kind of journey it takes me on.
Thank you so much to Aurora Steinhart for the gifted ARC; I really appreciate you and the stories that you tell! All opinions are my own.
June 30, 2026
Review of advance reader copy. This is my honest review.
Title: His Heart To Steal
Series: The Executioner Duet (Book 1)
Author: Aurora Steinhart
I received this book as an ARC, as this is my first read by this author i didn't know what to expect. What I read about the book immediately piqued my interest. Hence, me signing up for the ARC. Let me tell you i was not disappointed.
His Heart To Steal is a chunky book, but it had me hooked from the beginning. Ruby, an orphan, has been passed around foster homes after her family died, until she finally gets up the courage to leave and goes it alone. She becomes the final modern day robin hood, until she steals from the wrong person and becomes a target herself.
Our MMC, Scythe, an assassin, just so happens to pick up that hit, but can he really pull the trigger?
This is a slow burn, but it gets spicy. I love how those characters are written, and i love these two together. Everything is fine, it's great, and then the ending hits.
I need book 2, cause how you going to end it like that? I look forward to reading more of their story (hopefully soon)
Title: His Heart To Steal
Series: The Executioner Duet (Book 1)
Author: Aurora Steinhart
I received this book as an ARC, as this is my first read by this author i didn't know what to expect. What I read about the book immediately piqued my interest. Hence, me signing up for the ARC. Let me tell you i was not disappointed.
His Heart To Steal is a chunky book, but it had me hooked from the beginning. Ruby, an orphan, has been passed around foster homes after her family died, until she finally gets up the courage to leave and goes it alone. She becomes the final modern day robin hood, until she steals from the wrong person and becomes a target herself.
Our MMC, Scythe, an assassin, just so happens to pick up that hit, but can he really pull the trigger?
This is a slow burn, but it gets spicy. I love how those characters are written, and i love these two together. Everything is fine, it's great, and then the ending hits.
I need book 2, cause how you going to end it like that? I look forward to reading more of their story (hopefully soon)
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
ARC Review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Well... sh*t. Where do I even start with this one? 🤯
Releasing 26th June 2026, and trust me when I say this needs to go straight to the top of your TBR pile.
I absolutely loved every minute of this book and I'm already counting down the days until Book 2. The FMC is an absolute powerhouse. Strong, fierce, and impossible not to root for. She kept me hooked from beginning to end.
The banter between Scythe, Ruby, and Reaper is brilliant, bringing plenty of humour and personality to the story. And then there's the tension between Scythe and Ruby... 🔥 The chemistry is undeniable and adds so much to an already addictive plot.
Dark, dirty, addictive, and impossible to put down. If you're a fan of dark romance with unforgettable characters and sizzling tension, this is one you need to pick up ASAP.
I need Book 2 immediately.
Well... sh*t. Where do I even start with this one? 🤯
Releasing 26th June 2026, and trust me when I say this needs to go straight to the top of your TBR pile.
I absolutely loved every minute of this book and I'm already counting down the days until Book 2. The FMC is an absolute powerhouse. Strong, fierce, and impossible not to root for. She kept me hooked from beginning to end.
The banter between Scythe, Ruby, and Reaper is brilliant, bringing plenty of humour and personality to the story. And then there's the tension between Scythe and Ruby... 🔥 The chemistry is undeniable and adds so much to an already addictive plot.
Dark, dirty, addictive, and impossible to put down. If you're a fan of dark romance with unforgettable characters and sizzling tension, this is one you need to pick up ASAP.
I need Book 2 immediately.
June 27, 2026
His Heart to Steal - Aurora Steinheart
I love this authors writing. Ruby and Scythe had unbelievable tension. I loved the plot between the two and the tension it created. For every moment where I giggle there was another where I cried. It was so emotional. I need to know what happens in the next book, especially with the Cards.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ / Out of 5 Stars ⭐️
🌶️ / Spice Rating ☀️
# of Pages 🌙 745 Pages
Release Date 🌟 6/26/26
Format 💫 Gifted Digital Copy
Series 🌙 The Executioner Duet, #1
Genre/Tropes ✨ Dark romance, criminal x criminal, thief FMC, hitman MMC, black cat FMC, slow burn
Favorite Character ☀️ Scythe
Favorite Line 🌟 ‘But I'll change it. I decide right then and there, that one day I'll change this place. I don't know how; I don't know when. Come hell or high water.’
I love this authors writing. Ruby and Scythe had unbelievable tension. I loved the plot between the two and the tension it created. For every moment where I giggle there was another where I cried. It was so emotional. I need to know what happens in the next book, especially with the Cards.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ / Out of 5 Stars ⭐️
🌶️ / Spice Rating ☀️
# of Pages 🌙 745 Pages
Release Date 🌟 6/26/26
Format 💫 Gifted Digital Copy
Series 🌙 The Executioner Duet, #1
Genre/Tropes ✨ Dark romance, criminal x criminal, thief FMC, hitman MMC, black cat FMC, slow burn
Favorite Character ☀️ Scythe
Favorite Line 🌟 ‘But I'll change it. I decide right then and there, that one day I'll change this place. I don't know how; I don't know when. Come hell or high water.’
June 3, 2026
I was so incredibly lucky to be able to read this whirlwind early! This book had me kicking my feet, twirling my hair and blushing violently.
Ruby? Phenomenal woman. I love a strong FMC who has a revenge plan. Scythe had me screaming mentally and Reaper had me giggling constantly. One of the best trio's I've read about!
Aurora Steinhart has created a masterpiece of longing, tension and spice. You can see how thoroughly she's researched every single aspect of this book to keep you sucked into the world. I hope to see the next one soon because I'm crawling up the walls needing to know what happens to them all!
Ruby? Phenomenal woman. I love a strong FMC who has a revenge plan. Scythe had me screaming mentally and Reaper had me giggling constantly. One of the best trio's I've read about!
Aurora Steinhart has created a masterpiece of longing, tension and spice. You can see how thoroughly she's researched every single aspect of this book to keep you sucked into the world. I hope to see the next one soon because I'm crawling up the walls needing to know what happens to them all!
Review of advance copy received from Author
AURORA!!! Who the hell do you think you are..... giving me a book where I fall in love with 2 crazy ass psychos and a robot friend, to add a dog, the Mafia, the twists, turns, crazy love and insane backstorys, just to leave me waiting for book 2!! I STG if its not out within a week, i'm screaming at you.
But in all seriousness, this was incredible.
The backstorys and how the characters develop was so different to anything I have read before.
I really enjoyed how fiesty Ruby is and so glad Scythe is a Killer Simp 😏
But in all seriousness, this was incredible.
The backstorys and how the characters develop was so different to anything I have read before.
I really enjoyed how fiesty Ruby is and so glad Scythe is a Killer Simp 😏
June 26, 2026
what a wonderful ride this book was. WOW!
the slow burn, the tension, the absolute yearning… sold me. i picked this up purely based off mood at the time and it ended up being exactly what i was hoping for.
our MMC finally meets his match with the FMC, and their chemistry is 😮💨but with a little “wtf”. the pacing keeps things moving while still letting you sit with every bit of longing.
tropes include: banter, slow burn with plenty of tension, masked men with piercings, two leads who can actually keep up with each other, some mayhem
this one completely hit the spot for me.
the slow burn, the tension, the absolute yearning… sold me. i picked this up purely based off mood at the time and it ended up being exactly what i was hoping for.
our MMC finally meets his match with the FMC, and their chemistry is 😮💨but with a little “wtf”. the pacing keeps things moving while still letting you sit with every bit of longing.
tropes include: banter, slow burn with plenty of tension, masked men with piercings, two leads who can actually keep up with each other, some mayhem
this one completely hit the spot for me.
June 28, 2026
This is a chunky book and ends on a cliffhanger which I am fuming about but the book is great!
Ruby and Scythe are just the weirdest, cutest, mentalist pairing ever and I am here for it. Bit of a retake on robin hood to me and there was some really heart warming scenes that left me shedding a tear. There was also some dark scenes and a bit of a kinky edge which I loved.
I can't wait for the next book to come out. Definitely worthy of a read.
Thank you to wings and words for the ARC. This is my honest review.
Ruby and Scythe are just the weirdest, cutest, mentalist pairing ever and I am here for it. Bit of a retake on robin hood to me and there was some really heart warming scenes that left me shedding a tear. There was also some dark scenes and a bit of a kinky edge which I loved.
I can't wait for the next book to come out. Definitely worthy of a read.
Thank you to wings and words for the ARC. This is my honest review.
June 29, 2026
This one has just one word needed… wow.
It’s an epic 745 page masterpiece.
true enemies to lovers.. he’s hired to kill her.
It’s a slow burn dark romance, full of action, a masked hitman MMC (with piercings), a vigilante FMC.. Both of which have ptsd and serious trauma from their pasts and a robot sidekick.
Having read books by Aurora before I expected great things and she surpassed that expectation. If I could give it 6 stars I would.
Be aware it is a dark romance and there are DARK themes. Also fair warning it ends on a cliffhanger as it’s part of a duet.
It’s an epic 745 page masterpiece.
true enemies to lovers.. he’s hired to kill her.
It’s a slow burn dark romance, full of action, a masked hitman MMC (with piercings), a vigilante FMC.. Both of which have ptsd and serious trauma from their pasts and a robot sidekick.
Having read books by Aurora before I expected great things and she surpassed that expectation. If I could give it 6 stars I would.
Be aware it is a dark romance and there are DARK themes. Also fair warning it ends on a cliffhanger as it’s part of a duet.
July 2, 2026
4.5⭐️ I really enjoyed this book! Something different than what I’m used to reading, so it was a nice change of pace. I enjoyed the cat and mouse, Robin Hood x hitman storyline. The banter was so heated and the tension was so so high. Both Ruby and Scythe had so much going on in their own lives, once they started working together it was like a train wreck at the start🤣 This was a darker read than I expected but there was still humor and lighthearted scenes. I knew the ending was going to be a cliffhanger but still was so uncalled for 😩😭
July 5, 2026
This had me in a chokehold
Incredible.
I can honestly say I have loved every single minute of this book.
This is so beautifully written, thoroughly detailed, it’s has Aurora’s signature sarcasm and unbelievably spicy scenes.
This is dramatic, dark, full of angst, turmoil and pain but also; The realisation that everyone deserves someone. Both MC’s are brought to life and make you feel the things they are feeling with this book.
This is now one of my top 5 reads of 2026 so far and I cannot wait to see what book 2 gives us.
Incredible.
I can honestly say I have loved every single minute of this book.
This is so beautifully written, thoroughly detailed, it’s has Aurora’s signature sarcasm and unbelievably spicy scenes.
This is dramatic, dark, full of angst, turmoil and pain but also; The realisation that everyone deserves someone. Both MC’s are brought to life and make you feel the things they are feeling with this book.
This is now one of my top 5 reads of 2026 so far and I cannot wait to see what book 2 gives us.
Review of advance copy received from Author
FMC accidentally kills someone during a heist, little did she know how important the guy was in the darker world of Las Vegas. When the MMC a hired assassin takes one look into her eyes he knows he can’t kill her.
It’s a battle of survival and surrender, and the cliffhanger left me feral!
I’m ready for book 2 in this duet and it’s not even release day yet 😂.
If you’re wondering about the spice, this is a slow burn and it doesn’t happen until chapter 33, but it’s worth it!
It’s a battle of survival and surrender, and the cliffhanger left me feral!
I’m ready for book 2 in this duet and it’s not even release day yet 😂.
If you’re wondering about the spice, this is a slow burn and it doesn’t happen until chapter 33, but it’s worth it!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy
His Heart to Steal — Aurora Steinhart
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Amazing. I absolutely loved this book and cannot wait for book two. I adored the main female character and how strong-willed and determined she was. The main male character was equally compelling, and I loved watching their dynamic unfold. One of my favourite parts was the friendship between Reaper, Ruby, and Scythe, which added so much heart and humour to the story. I was completely hooked and loved every minute of it. 🖤📖✨
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Amazing. I absolutely loved this book and cannot wait for book two. I adored the main female character and how strong-willed and determined she was. The main male character was equally compelling, and I loved watching their dynamic unfold. One of my favourite parts was the friendship between Reaper, Ruby, and Scythe, which added so much heart and humour to the story. I was completely hooked and loved every minute of it. 🖤📖✨
Review of advance copy received from Author
Once I got hooked, I flew through the rest.
I loved the FMC. she's competent, fierce, and more than capable of holding her own, even against a giant behemoth of a man determined to get under her skin. The enemies to lovers tension was done well with plenty of banter, chemistry and moments where neither character could stop thinking about the other despite wanting to.
The slow burn absolutely paid off, and that ending left me desperate for book two.
I loved the FMC. she's competent, fierce, and more than capable of holding her own, even against a giant behemoth of a man determined to get under her skin. The enemies to lovers tension was done well with plenty of banter, chemistry and moments where neither character could stop thinking about the other despite wanting to.
The slow burn absolutely paid off, and that ending left me desperate for book two.
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