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Noire Brothers #3
Roulette Rising
Noires play to conquer, and this is the devil’s game.
A spinning wheel. A one-shot chamber.
Red or black, high or low, odd or even.
Hit or live.
One shield. One sword. One stone.
Flip the coin, or never say die.
Axel
La Lune Noire is a haven for the corrupt. My resort, my world, my life.
And Zara West is here to blow it up.
If only that were enough of a reason to stop thinking about the stunning assassin, but ever since she arrived, with her mahogany hair, quick wit, and cherry obsession, I’ve been consumed.
My infatuation aside, I never lose control.
No matter what she’s here for, she’ll leave empty-handed.
Never underestimate the house edge.
Zara
Axel Noire is an intoxicating man.
Everything about him screams king of the underworld—the suit, the power, the sapphire eyes and the city that worships him.
Having some fun with my mark couldn’t hurt. It might even help.
He thinks he has the upper hand, but when he least expects it, the tables will turn.
At least, that’s the plan.
But nothing about my La Lune Noire mission goes as planned.
In a blink, everything I am dissolves into a crimson mosaic and a collar of thorns.
He was the bullet I never saw coming.
A spinning wheel. A one-shot chamber.
Red or black, high or low, odd or even.
Hit or live.
One shield. One sword. One stone.
Flip the coin, or never say die.
Axel
La Lune Noire is a haven for the corrupt. My resort, my world, my life.
And Zara West is here to blow it up.
If only that were enough of a reason to stop thinking about the stunning assassin, but ever since she arrived, with her mahogany hair, quick wit, and cherry obsession, I’ve been consumed.
My infatuation aside, I never lose control.
No matter what she’s here for, she’ll leave empty-handed.
Never underestimate the house edge.
Zara
Axel Noire is an intoxicating man.
Everything about him screams king of the underworld—the suit, the power, the sapphire eyes and the city that worships him.
Having some fun with my mark couldn’t hurt. It might even help.
He thinks he has the upper hand, but when he least expects it, the tables will turn.
At least, that’s the plan.
But nothing about my La Lune Noire mission goes as planned.
In a blink, everything I am dissolves into a crimson mosaic and a collar of thorns.
He was the bullet I never saw coming.
Paperback
Published May 8, 2026
About the author
Brandy Hynes
8 books505 followersBrandy Hynes is the author of steamy, suspenseful dark romance stories. Her specialty is irresistible, morally gray men and the sassy heroines who make them melt. No matter what chaos ensues, her antiheroes and their fierce leading ladies claw their way through rubble to reach a happily ever after.
Brandy lives where the sun is always shining with her family, who is the light of her life, and marvels at how the most beautiful treasures often bloom in the dark. Other than writing, her ideal destination is either lost in a book or poolside with her favorite people.
Check out my playlists on Spotify: spotify.com
Brandy lives where the sun is always shining with her family, who is the light of her life, and marvels at how the most beautiful treasures often bloom in the dark. Other than writing, her ideal destination is either lost in a book or poolside with her favorite people.
Check out my playlists on Spotify: spotify.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 208 reviews
May 4, 2026
Brandy has this truly poetically beautiful way of fully immersing you into a love story filled with strong badass FMCs, morally grey MMCs, toe curling spice, swoon worthy moments that will bring you to your knees and a touch of suspense that will keep you guessing til the bitter end. Roulette Rising, is a book that delivers everything that we love about Brandy’s writing and so much more!
I have been a walking talking billboard for Brandy since day one and I can confidently say, I straight devoured Roulette Rising! Axel, or as we call him Papa Axe, is the Noire patriarch. The one who puts everyone before himself. So it’s only fitting that he finds the love that he finds the love of his life while trying to protective his family. But SHE is a threat to his family and he's down bad for her mahogany hair and emerald green eyes. Did I also mention that she's the woman who was sent to La Lune Noire as an assassin with the target being Axel? A love story between THE boss of the criminal underworld and a female assassin? Yeah, sign me up!
Now leave it up to Zara to be the only woman to bring Papa Axe to his knees for the first time in his 40 years. Now she thought she would be taking him to his knees by gun but their connection, banter and tension was so strong and palpable on page. These two were absolutely perfect for one another. Both are morally grey with strong protective instincts for the ones they love. And honestly, it was only fitting for Axel to fall for a much younger woman who can provide him a sense of strength and protection that he so fiercely gives to the ones he loves. Because at the end of the day, he deserves to be taken care of for once and for someone to give him the love he so much deserves.
This should come to NO SURPRISE to anyone but I straight devoured this book! The plot had me in. chokehold from page one! I know we've all been patiently awaiting Papa Axe's story and it was everything I wanted and so much more! Axel is top tier MMC perfection. Zara is the fierce FMC that Brandy writes so perfectly because who doesn’t love a strong brilliant woman with a sense of feminine rage? Like, Brandy delivers THE perfect FMCS. I want to be friends with all of them.
🎧📖 Audiobook Review: Duet Narration by Jason Clarke and Angelina Rocca
Holy smokes! If you have the opportunity to read Brandy's books in audiobook form, I highly suggest that you go that route because Roulette Rising in audio was chef's FREAKING kiss! I honestly don't think I could have picked a better person to narrate Axel. Like I won't lie, Jason is one of my favorite male narrators. His growly voice brings me to my knees every time and he was the perfect narrator to embody everything that Papa Axe is. Ugh is was so good and the spicy scenes... 🥵 OMG RENT FREE! This was my first audiobook narrated by Angelina and she did a FABULOUS job bringing Zara to life.
Ok listen I could talk your ear off about Brandy’s writing AND I will! But for now, this is the review. So please just take my word and add Brandy to your tbr and you can thank me later!
You should read this book if you like:
- Dark Romantic Suspense
- Secret Society
- Boss of the Criminal Underworld
- Female Assassin
- Age Gap (29 & 40)
- Billionaire Romance
- Set in NOLA w/ Great Gatsby Vibes
- STRONG Found Family
* I would like to say a HUGE THANK YOU to Brandy Hynes for allowing me the pleasure to read Roulette Rising as and ARC & ALC for my honest thoughts, opinions and review.
I have been a walking talking billboard for Brandy since day one and I can confidently say, I straight devoured Roulette Rising! Axel, or as we call him Papa Axe, is the Noire patriarch. The one who puts everyone before himself. So it’s only fitting that he finds the love that he finds the love of his life while trying to protective his family. But SHE is a threat to his family and he's down bad for her mahogany hair and emerald green eyes. Did I also mention that she's the woman who was sent to La Lune Noire as an assassin with the target being Axel? A love story between THE boss of the criminal underworld and a female assassin? Yeah, sign me up!
Now leave it up to Zara to be the only woman to bring Papa Axe to his knees for the first time in his 40 years. Now she thought she would be taking him to his knees by gun but their connection, banter and tension was so strong and palpable on page. These two were absolutely perfect for one another. Both are morally grey with strong protective instincts for the ones they love. And honestly, it was only fitting for Axel to fall for a much younger woman who can provide him a sense of strength and protection that he so fiercely gives to the ones he loves. Because at the end of the day, he deserves to be taken care of for once and for someone to give him the love he so much deserves.
This should come to NO SURPRISE to anyone but I straight devoured this book! The plot had me in. chokehold from page one! I know we've all been patiently awaiting Papa Axe's story and it was everything I wanted and so much more! Axel is top tier MMC perfection. Zara is the fierce FMC that Brandy writes so perfectly because who doesn’t love a strong brilliant woman with a sense of feminine rage? Like, Brandy delivers THE perfect FMCS. I want to be friends with all of them.
🎧📖 Audiobook Review: Duet Narration by Jason Clarke and Angelina Rocca
Holy smokes! If you have the opportunity to read Brandy's books in audiobook form, I highly suggest that you go that route because Roulette Rising in audio was chef's FREAKING kiss! I honestly don't think I could have picked a better person to narrate Axel. Like I won't lie, Jason is one of my favorite male narrators. His growly voice brings me to my knees every time and he was the perfect narrator to embody everything that Papa Axe is. Ugh is was so good and the spicy scenes... 🥵 OMG RENT FREE! This was my first audiobook narrated by Angelina and she did a FABULOUS job bringing Zara to life.
Ok listen I could talk your ear off about Brandy’s writing AND I will! But for now, this is the review. So please just take my word and add Brandy to your tbr and you can thank me later!
You should read this book if you like:
- Dark Romantic Suspense
- Secret Society
- Boss of the Criminal Underworld
- Female Assassin
- Age Gap (29 & 40)
- Billionaire Romance
- Set in NOLA w/ Great Gatsby Vibes
- STRONG Found Family
* I would like to say a HUGE THANK YOU to Brandy Hynes for allowing me the pleasure to read Roulette Rising as and ARC & ALC for my honest thoughts, opinions and review.
May 9, 2026
“You could lodge a bullet in me tomorrow, Zara, and as I took my last breath, I still couldn’t find it in me to regret a single moment with you.”
It goes without saying that I am obsessed with these characters and this universe. With each new book, Brandy never ceases to amaze me.
After her mother’s death, Zara was raised and trained by her father to become one of his organization’s deadliest assassins. Her latest mission brings her undercover to La Lune Noire. Still, when the oldest Noire sibling and leader of the family business recognizes her immediately, she realizes the assignment is far more dangerous than she expected.
Since taking over La Lune Noire at twenty-one while raising his siblings by himself, Axel has rebuilt his father’s empire around loyalty and strict rules. The moment he sees Zara, he knows exactly who she is: the daughter of a woman his father killed and suspects his family may be her target.
Still, staying away from her quickly becomes impossible.
What you can expect:
♡ dark/billionaire romance
♡ age gap (11 years)
♡ rivals to lovers
♡ found family
♡ secret society
♡ morally gray mmc & fmc
♡ resort owner/assassin
As I'm a big fan of this series, I was drawn into the story from the first chapter. Zara is an incredibly strong heroine, perfect in every way for our Papa Axe. Their relationship gradually developed from attraction, mistrust, until they both started to let their guard down a little, little by little and admit their feelings... to trust in each other and a great love.
Brandy kept me on edge with various revelations and twists, and I can't wait to find out which of the Noire siblings is next to get their own story. (I love their banter; it's one of my favorite things about this series.)
This book can be read as a standalone, but for the full experience, I recommend starting with the first book, 'Rolling 75'.
*I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy. All opinions are my own and given freely.
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It goes without saying that I am obsessed with these characters and this universe. With each new book, Brandy never ceases to amaze me.
After her mother’s death, Zara was raised and trained by her father to become one of his organization’s deadliest assassins. Her latest mission brings her undercover to La Lune Noire. Still, when the oldest Noire sibling and leader of the family business recognizes her immediately, she realizes the assignment is far more dangerous than she expected.
Since taking over La Lune Noire at twenty-one while raising his siblings by himself, Axel has rebuilt his father’s empire around loyalty and strict rules. The moment he sees Zara, he knows exactly who she is: the daughter of a woman his father killed and suspects his family may be her target.
Still, staying away from her quickly becomes impossible.
What you can expect:
♡ dark/billionaire romance
♡ age gap (11 years)
♡ rivals to lovers
♡ found family
♡ secret society
♡ morally gray mmc & fmc
♡ resort owner/assassin
As I'm a big fan of this series, I was drawn into the story from the first chapter. Zara is an incredibly strong heroine, perfect in every way for our Papa Axe. Their relationship gradually developed from attraction, mistrust, until they both started to let their guard down a little, little by little and admit their feelings... to trust in each other and a great love.
Brandy kept me on edge with various revelations and twists, and I can't wait to find out which of the Noire siblings is next to get their own story. (I love their banter; it's one of my favorite things about this series.)
This book can be read as a standalone, but for the full experience, I recommend starting with the first book, 'Rolling 75'.
*I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy. All opinions are my own and given freely.
____________________
Follow me ♡
Review of advance copy received from Author
Brandy had me in awe of her writing yet again.
I’m honestly at a loss for words. I don’t know how to describe how perfect this book was.
I have been waiting for Axel’s book since I read about him in the KORT series. He was such an interesting character, and I fell for him more in this series, and when it came to his book? I just have to say he is definitely my favorite Noire brother.
“You could lodge a bullet in me tomorrow, Zara, and as I took my last breath, I still couldn’t find it in me to regret a single moment with you.”
Axel is the king of his resort. He spent two decades building it with his family to make it a heaven. He’s there for everyone, he takes care of everything, and he’s always on top, always in control, but when a stunning assassin comes to blow his kingdom up, he becomes obsessed with her.
This man was ready to give up everything for her. His patience and his obsessiveness were on another level. I WAS MELTING when he has his glasses on and he was taunting Zara. Gosh, he’s PERFECT. And so so HOTT 🔥
“When it comes to you, my little Thorn, it would seem I’m a fucking lunatic.”
Zara was sent on a mission with barely any information, so she had to stay on high alert, but it’s hard to when she’s around THE Axel Noire.
(I mean, I get it, girl.)
She lets herself have a little fun with the devil in a suit, but she didn’t expect the feelings to grow or how easily she’d fit in with his family.
The plot? HOLY SHIT, how did Brandy think of all of this?!!! It was so impressive 🤭
She’s mine. My purpose. My answer. My way out of the godforsaken flames that have engulfed me for the past nineteen years.
Goddammmmn, The tension between them was absolutely sizzling. They were perfect for each other. They broke down each other’s walls, and Zara let him take the one thing she thought she never could her control. Even when they couldn’t trust each other, they still did. Gosh, I love these books so much.
As always, I loved the brothers’ bickering and their group chat, the gifs were so funny 😂 and Zara matched their energy perfectly.
I can’t wait for Cash and Jax’s books. I already know we’re going to have so much fun with those two.
I have been waiting for Axel’s book since I read about him in the KORT series. He was such an interesting character, and I fell for him more in this series, and when it came to his book? I just have to say he is definitely my favorite Noire brother.
“You could lodge a bullet in me tomorrow, Zara, and as I took my last breath, I still couldn’t find it in me to regret a single moment with you.”
Axel is the king of his resort. He spent two decades building it with his family to make it a heaven. He’s there for everyone, he takes care of everything, and he’s always on top, always in control, but when a stunning assassin comes to blow his kingdom up, he becomes obsessed with her.
This man was ready to give up everything for her. His patience and his obsessiveness were on another level. I WAS MELTING when he has his glasses on and he was taunting Zara. Gosh, he’s PERFECT. And so so HOTT 🔥
“When it comes to you, my little Thorn, it would seem I’m a fucking lunatic.”
Zara was sent on a mission with barely any information, so she had to stay on high alert, but it’s hard to when she’s around THE Axel Noire.
(I mean, I get it, girl.)
She lets herself have a little fun with the devil in a suit, but she didn’t expect the feelings to grow or how easily she’d fit in with his family.
The plot? HOLY SHIT, how did Brandy think of all of this?!!! It was so impressive 🤭
She’s mine. My purpose. My answer. My way out of the godforsaken flames that have engulfed me for the past nineteen years.
Goddammmmn, The tension between them was absolutely sizzling. They were perfect for each other. They broke down each other’s walls, and Zara let him take the one thing she thought she never could her control. Even when they couldn’t trust each other, they still did. Gosh, I love these books so much.
As always, I loved the brothers’ bickering and their group chat, the gifs were so funny 😂 and Zara matched their energy perfectly.
I can’t wait for Cash and Jax’s books. I already know we’re going to have so much fun with those two.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Roulette Rising by Brandy Hynes,
narrated in duet by Angelina Rocca and Jason Clarke
Produced by Blue Nose Audio
I don’t even know where to start.
Every single time I read or listen to a Noir Brothers novel by Brandy Hynes, I think, “That’s it. This is the best one. There’s no way she can top it.” And yet… once again, I am WRONG, and happily so.
This had everything I didn’t even know I needed and loved, and I genuinely could not get enough. I did not want this audio to end and I am absolutely gnawing at the bars of my enclosure waiting for the next book 😭
🎧 The audiobook was an absolute masterpiece, and honestly, is that even surprising when you have two stars like Angelina Rocca and Jason Clarke narrating in duet?
Angelina Rocca was absolutely perfect as our badass and emotionally layered Zara. I felt everything, the strength, the vulnerability, the emotional pull, the passion… all of it.
And Jason Clarke?? The perfect embodiment of Axel Noir. Untouchable and powerful, yet weighed down by responsibility and completely vulnerable for the people he loves. And those growls?? I felt them in my BONES 🫠
But jokes aside, the chemistry between the characters was already incredible on page, and the narrators amplified it even more with their absolute synergy. This is a MUST listen.
And the spice?? Delicious. The kinks( check your triggers) were done right, rooted in trust, devotion, and emotional connection, which made it hit even harder.
“ Mirrors lie better than windows “
Honestly, there was not one thing I didn’t love.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ story
🎧⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ narration & production
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Thank you so much Brandy Hynes and Valentine PR for the audio review copy, all opinions are my own
narrated in duet by Angelina Rocca and Jason Clarke
Produced by Blue Nose Audio
I don’t even know where to start.
Every single time I read or listen to a Noir Brothers novel by Brandy Hynes, I think, “That’s it. This is the best one. There’s no way she can top it.” And yet… once again, I am WRONG, and happily so.
This had everything I didn’t even know I needed and loved, and I genuinely could not get enough. I did not want this audio to end and I am absolutely gnawing at the bars of my enclosure waiting for the next book 😭
🎧 The audiobook was an absolute masterpiece, and honestly, is that even surprising when you have two stars like Angelina Rocca and Jason Clarke narrating in duet?
Angelina Rocca was absolutely perfect as our badass and emotionally layered Zara. I felt everything, the strength, the vulnerability, the emotional pull, the passion… all of it.
And Jason Clarke?? The perfect embodiment of Axel Noir. Untouchable and powerful, yet weighed down by responsibility and completely vulnerable for the people he loves. And those growls?? I felt them in my BONES 🫠
But jokes aside, the chemistry between the characters was already incredible on page, and the narrators amplified it even more with their absolute synergy. This is a MUST listen.
And the spice?? Delicious. The kinks( check your triggers) were done right, rooted in trust, devotion, and emotional connection, which made it hit even harder.
“ Mirrors lie better than windows “
Honestly, there was not one thing I didn’t love.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ story
🎧⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ narration & production
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Thank you so much Brandy Hynes and Valentine PR for the audio review copy, all opinions are my own
May 7, 2026
Audiobook ♾️
Spice 3🌶️
Story ♾️
Roulette Rising by Brandy Hynes is the third book in the Noire series. This is a high-stakes dark romance that brings us back to the KORT series, it is an interconnected standalone, that will give you all the information if you would like to pick just this book up, I will urge you to read the KORT series and Noire's previous books before getting to this one. And I'll tell you the reasoning is not because you will miss the information but because the books are incredible and they deserve all the love, attention and let me tell you that every single one has a duet cast narration to die for.
Now let’s get back to this story and dive a bit into this amazing experience. Let me be very clear I come in with very high expectations when it comes to Brandy’s books, and in the Noire series, this is my absolute favourite, so far. Brandy has raised the bar so high in this one, choosing the best tropes but giving us a one-of-a-kind story. I mean the MMC, Axel, this mouth-watering man, can exist only on page unfortunately, he is absolute perfection, from the attitude, personality, perfect character development …. To the tattoos and even piercings, yes you know where you will find that.
But here is where the book shines the most for me: our FMC Zara, a trained assassin with a mission and with a heart that needs to be loved and cherished. Not only does she have a backbone, but keeps Papa Axe on his toes, she can be a little vixen. And those cherries…. Well, know i would love to taste them. And the spice… is delivered so well, with meaning, purpose and fits the story progression perfectly.
In true Brandy fashion, the audiobook, is also a masterpiece, with 2 of the best voices out there: Angelina Rocca and Jason Clarke. Angelina played so well on Zara’s emotions and vulnerabilities, giving us not only a memorable performance, but it was so heartfelt and incredible. Her delivery is flawless and her voice is just the perfect fit for our FMC. Jason Clark is a legend on his own but with a character as strong as Axel, his performance shines, and you can hear how much he loves his job and craft. Both of them put so much intent into every word, creating an audio masterpiece.
Thank you so much Brandy for this ALC, is such an honour to be a part of your team, my opinions are my own!
Spice 3🌶️
Story ♾️
Roulette Rising by Brandy Hynes is the third book in the Noire series. This is a high-stakes dark romance that brings us back to the KORT series, it is an interconnected standalone, that will give you all the information if you would like to pick just this book up, I will urge you to read the KORT series and Noire's previous books before getting to this one. And I'll tell you the reasoning is not because you will miss the information but because the books are incredible and they deserve all the love, attention and let me tell you that every single one has a duet cast narration to die for.
Now let’s get back to this story and dive a bit into this amazing experience. Let me be very clear I come in with very high expectations when it comes to Brandy’s books, and in the Noire series, this is my absolute favourite, so far. Brandy has raised the bar so high in this one, choosing the best tropes but giving us a one-of-a-kind story. I mean the MMC, Axel, this mouth-watering man, can exist only on page unfortunately, he is absolute perfection, from the attitude, personality, perfect character development …. To the tattoos and even piercings, yes you know where you will find that.
But here is where the book shines the most for me: our FMC Zara, a trained assassin with a mission and with a heart that needs to be loved and cherished. Not only does she have a backbone, but keeps Papa Axe on his toes, she can be a little vixen. And those cherries…. Well, know i would love to taste them. And the spice… is delivered so well, with meaning, purpose and fits the story progression perfectly.
In true Brandy fashion, the audiobook, is also a masterpiece, with 2 of the best voices out there: Angelina Rocca and Jason Clarke. Angelina played so well on Zara’s emotions and vulnerabilities, giving us not only a memorable performance, but it was so heartfelt and incredible. Her delivery is flawless and her voice is just the perfect fit for our FMC. Jason Clark is a legend on his own but with a character as strong as Axel, his performance shines, and you can hear how much he loves his job and craft. Both of them put so much intent into every word, creating an audio masterpiece.
Thank you so much Brandy for this ALC, is such an honour to be a part of your team, my opinions are my own!
April 30, 2026
I didn’t think I could love a couple more than Ryker and Mercy until Axel and Zara. These two have officially risen to the top of my list, right next to R&M. Somehow Brandy just keeps blowing me away with her ability to weave the most incredible and intimate stories, and the Noire brothers just keep getting better and better. 🙂↕️
Can we talk about the slow burn and the tension?? OMG. Chapter 22 will live rent free in my head. I loved it and hated the torture of waiting for these two to finally ignite. The push and pull was perfection and their chemistry was unmatched. The banter, the flirting, the secret looks, the stolen glances. With a million reasons not to, there were even more reasons why they should, and nothing could keep them apart.
I loved the battle for power that slowly started to crumble because they became exactly what the other needed. Axel… I have no words. NO WORDS! Similar to Ryker in his bravado, but calmer, confident, and quiet. He controls with patience, love, and unwavering loyalty to his family, until we finally see that slip because of Zara. Her confidence, her intelligence, and her ability to disarm through kindness completely knocked him on his ass, which I ate up. She is a badass and I loved her character arc so much. I don’t want to spoil anything, but the way they communicated by leaving certain things for each other… they had their own love language.🥹
Again, the found family is my FAVORITE in this series. These brothers and their family are EVERYTHING. Give me all the text threads! Tessa and Mercy embracing her, the brothers wanting nothing more than to see Axel find love and be loved. As the patriarch of their family, he deserves it all. There were also so many little easter eggs hinting at the larger story unfolding between them and KORT. And I already have theories about the last two Noire brothers and who might be next.
I am in love with this book and such a huge fan of Brandy’s world!
Can we talk about the slow burn and the tension?? OMG. Chapter 22 will live rent free in my head. I loved it and hated the torture of waiting for these two to finally ignite. The push and pull was perfection and their chemistry was unmatched. The banter, the flirting, the secret looks, the stolen glances. With a million reasons not to, there were even more reasons why they should, and nothing could keep them apart.
I loved the battle for power that slowly started to crumble because they became exactly what the other needed. Axel… I have no words. NO WORDS! Similar to Ryker in his bravado, but calmer, confident, and quiet. He controls with patience, love, and unwavering loyalty to his family, until we finally see that slip because of Zara. Her confidence, her intelligence, and her ability to disarm through kindness completely knocked him on his ass, which I ate up. She is a badass and I loved her character arc so much. I don’t want to spoil anything, but the way they communicated by leaving certain things for each other… they had their own love language.🥹
Again, the found family is my FAVORITE in this series. These brothers and their family are EVERYTHING. Give me all the text threads! Tessa and Mercy embracing her, the brothers wanting nothing more than to see Axel find love and be loved. As the patriarch of their family, he deserves it all. There were also so many little easter eggs hinting at the larger story unfolding between them and KORT. And I already have theories about the last two Noire brothers and who might be next.
I am in love with this book and such a huge fan of Brandy’s world!
May 17, 2026
AXELLLLL😍😍😍 also the found family is everything🫶🏻❤️
May 10, 2026
One thing I love about Brandy‘s writing is that we always get a strong FMC and a strong MMC. And I love how Axel and Zara complement each other so well! The tension and chemistry between these two is palpable and I love how they try to fight giving in because it only makes it more delicious when they finally do! I was literally squealing and kicking my feet from their first encounter and I loved their banter throughout the book! Not only do I love these two, but Brandy always keeps my attention with the plot and suspense in her books too! 10/10 recommend reading this book and then you’ll immediately want to read the rest of her books if you haven’t already!
Audiobook: Angelina Rocca and Jason Clarke were the absolute perfect cast for this audiobook! I honestly could not stop listening to them and they really brought Zara & Papa Axe to life! It’s performed in duet and if you are an audio fan, I definitely recommend listening to this one and all of Brandy’s books!
What to expect:
🖤Billionaire Dark Romantic Suspense
🍒Resort Owner/ Assassin
🖤Age gap 40/29 (11 years)
🍒Secret Society
🖤Rivals to lovers (She’s hired to infiltrate La Lune Noire)
🍒Found Family
🖤Forced proximity
🍒Morally gray MMC & FMC
🖤Action/Suspense
🍒Dom/sub
🖤Touch her or him and die
🍒Pierced MMC
Audiobook: Angelina Rocca and Jason Clarke were the absolute perfect cast for this audiobook! I honestly could not stop listening to them and they really brought Zara & Papa Axe to life! It’s performed in duet and if you are an audio fan, I definitely recommend listening to this one and all of Brandy’s books!
What to expect:
🖤Billionaire Dark Romantic Suspense
🍒Resort Owner/ Assassin
🖤Age gap 40/29 (11 years)
🍒Secret Society
🖤Rivals to lovers (She’s hired to infiltrate La Lune Noire)
🍒Found Family
🖤Forced proximity
🍒Morally gray MMC & FMC
🖤Action/Suspense
🍒Dom/sub
🖤Touch her or him and die
🍒Pierced MMC
May 11, 2026
Roulette Rising just ruined me for all other mafia romances🖤
This is my top favorite Noire Brothers book because Papa Axe finally got his story and trust me it was worth the wait. Axel Noire is giving calm, ruthless & untouchable power. The type of man who doesn’t need to raise his voice because everyone already knows who runs the room. Sexy? Extremely.
Then Zara West enters the chat… assassin, secretive & dangerous and fully ready to wreck this man’s peace. Their dynamic?? Elite. He knows she’s trouble and still wants her anyway. She’s powerful in every sense, yet somehow melts only for him. Yeah… inject it into my veins.
And can we discuss the fact this man leaves poetry books around with highlighted passages?? EXCUSE ME??? Where do I order one like that? 😩📚the plot had me locked in too twists, secrets & motives changing every five seconds. I trusted nobody. Add in the chaotic Noire family banter and I was obsessed. But the moment Axel brought Zara into the family madness and instantly fit her into his world? It was over!! Final verdict: dangerous man, lethal woman, family chaos, tension for days, spice that actually hits & a story that owns your attention from page one. Brandy really outdid herself with this brother!!!
Go read and let me know your thoughts
Xoxo
This is my top favorite Noire Brothers book because Papa Axe finally got his story and trust me it was worth the wait. Axel Noire is giving calm, ruthless & untouchable power. The type of man who doesn’t need to raise his voice because everyone already knows who runs the room. Sexy? Extremely.
Then Zara West enters the chat… assassin, secretive & dangerous and fully ready to wreck this man’s peace. Their dynamic?? Elite. He knows she’s trouble and still wants her anyway. She’s powerful in every sense, yet somehow melts only for him. Yeah… inject it into my veins.
And can we discuss the fact this man leaves poetry books around with highlighted passages?? EXCUSE ME??? Where do I order one like that? 😩📚the plot had me locked in too twists, secrets & motives changing every five seconds. I trusted nobody. Add in the chaotic Noire family banter and I was obsessed. But the moment Axel brought Zara into the family madness and instantly fit her into his world? It was over!! Final verdict: dangerous man, lethal woman, family chaos, tension for days, spice that actually hits & a story that owns your attention from page one. Brandy really outdid herself with this brother!!!
Go read and let me know your thoughts
Xoxo
May 9, 2026
Axel freaking Noire was everything and more. I couldn’t get enough of this book and legit met the man who stole my heart for this series. At every turn Brandy just mic dropped more this these two. The perfect match. The Noire King and the Assassin. The push and pull. The give and take. The unlimited giving of all that is left to give. Cut my heart out of my chest and take it because I felt every moment of this book and I still want more.
Axel Noire is a man far beyond his years, he has had to grow up fast and make decision that are in the best of his family. This man literally stole my heart and locked it up tight. His ambitions and goals to his family is empowering. He never gave any thought to something more of his own… that is until a little assassin sneaks into his kingdom with intentions that could destroy him.
Axel and Zara’s back and forth banter is entertaining and captivating. These two have a way of turning the spotlight where they want it, while doing something else with the slight of their hands. They are truly a perfect pair. Complementary to each other in all the ways while also pushing each other to their limits. I truly fell in love with these two and I hope you fall as hard as I did for their tragic tale, but of course ends with a love story 💛
A thorn and a poet, a king and the assassin, home is not merely a place but a person, her.
Axel Noire is a man far beyond his years, he has had to grow up fast and make decision that are in the best of his family. This man literally stole my heart and locked it up tight. His ambitions and goals to his family is empowering. He never gave any thought to something more of his own… that is until a little assassin sneaks into his kingdom with intentions that could destroy him.
Axel and Zara’s back and forth banter is entertaining and captivating. These two have a way of turning the spotlight where they want it, while doing something else with the slight of their hands. They are truly a perfect pair. Complementary to each other in all the ways while also pushing each other to their limits. I truly fell in love with these two and I hope you fall as hard as I did for their tragic tale, but of course ends with a love story 💛
A thorn and a poet, a king and the assassin, home is not merely a place but a person, her.
May 11, 2026
“𝘌𝘷𝘦𝘯 𝘪𝘧 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘸𝘦𝘳𝘦 𝘩𝘪𝘳𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘰 𝘵𝘢𝘬𝘦 𝘥𝘰𝘸𝘯 𝘮𝘺 𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘪𝘳𝘦 𝘬𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘥𝘰𝘮, 𝘐’𝘥 𝘴𝘵𝘪𝘭𝘭 𝘥𝘦𝘦𝘮 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘮𝘺 𝘨𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘵𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘵𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘴𝘶𝘳𝘦.”
5/⭐️
3/🌶️
Brandy’s style of writing and ability to tell a story needs to be studied because this is another absolutely masterpiece!!! 👏🏼 I truly do not know how she does it. She has created such a unique world and woven together so many storylines, I just don’t know if there’s another fictional world out there that completely
blows my mind like this one.
I truly want to scream about all the things I loved in this one, but like always I’ll keep this short bc I refuse to give any spoilers away.. Axel and Zara were SO MUCH more than I ever could’ve imagined!!! I was in the edge of my seat the whole time!!! They compliment each other so well! The chemistry, the banter, the dynamic between them??? I WAS LIVING FOR IT! Some of these scenes will be living rent free.. I mean come on, her under the desk and his shoe? SCREAMING 🤭🫠
The twists and turns in this one?? That ending??? I’m actually screaming all over again just thinking about!! Let’s just say these two would BURN the world down for each other!
I never want to leave this world. I cannot wait to see what’s next 🫶🏼
🤍 what to expect -
Billionaire Dark Romantic Suspense
Resort Owner x Assassin
Age gap 40/29 (11 years)
Secret Society
Rivals to lovers (She's hired to infiltrate La Lune Noire)
Found Family
Forced proximity
Morally gray MMC & FMC
Dom x Sub
Touch her or him and 💀
Pierced MMC
5/⭐️
3/🌶️
Brandy’s style of writing and ability to tell a story needs to be studied because this is another absolutely masterpiece!!! 👏🏼 I truly do not know how she does it. She has created such a unique world and woven together so many storylines, I just don’t know if there’s another fictional world out there that completely
blows my mind like this one.
I truly want to scream about all the things I loved in this one, but like always I’ll keep this short bc I refuse to give any spoilers away.. Axel and Zara were SO MUCH more than I ever could’ve imagined!!! I was in the edge of my seat the whole time!!! They compliment each other so well! The chemistry, the banter, the dynamic between them??? I WAS LIVING FOR IT! Some of these scenes will be living rent free.. I mean come on, her under the desk and his shoe? SCREAMING 🤭🫠
The twists and turns in this one?? That ending??? I’m actually screaming all over again just thinking about!! Let’s just say these two would BURN the world down for each other!
I never want to leave this world. I cannot wait to see what’s next 🫶🏼
🤍 what to expect -
Billionaire Dark Romantic Suspense
Resort Owner x Assassin
Age gap 40/29 (11 years)
Secret Society
Rivals to lovers (She's hired to infiltrate La Lune Noire)
Found Family
Forced proximity
Morally gray MMC & FMC
Dom x Sub
Touch her or him and 💀
Pierced MMC
May 13, 2026
Omg I absolutely devoured this book! It took me back to the KORT series and I’m here for it!! The outcome you expect was not what actually happened and I’m ok with it. Like the entire story happened and at the end my mind was blown! And I’m so glad he found his person, he deserves to have this love!!!
The audio was done in duet style by Jason Clark and Angelina Rocco and let me just say WOW! Jason always makes my toes curl with his deep growl and the depth his voice reaches. And Angelina I am placing right up with the Samantha Brentmore bc I can’t think of a better narrator to hold to to when she’s that amazing. Blue did the production of this and as always it was superb!! Absolutely love the way that company produces audio books!
The audio was done in duet style by Jason Clark and Angelina Rocco and let me just say WOW! Jason always makes my toes curl with his deep growl and the depth his voice reaches. And Angelina I am placing right up with the Samantha Brentmore bc I can’t think of a better narrator to hold to to when she’s that amazing. Blue did the production of this and as always it was superb!! Absolutely love the way that company produces audio books!
May 23, 2026
Dark Billionaire
Romantic Suspense
Resort Owner X Assassin
Secret Society
Rivals to Lovers
Age Gap (40/29)
Forced Proximity
Found Family
Shocker to no one.
Another 5⭐ read from Brandy
I straight up devoured this audio, narration in duet by Angelina Rocca & Jason Clarke
If you want a book that is equal parts amazing plot, suspense and steamy spice, you need to read a Brandy book. This one is the perfect definition of the saying "keep your friends close, and enemies closer." Did I mention our FMC is a trained assassin & our MMC wears glasses 🫠 Zara is sent to La Lune Noire with a mission to scope out the Noire brothers, and one in particular, Axel, catches on to her motives really quick.
My review is you simply need to read this book. 👩🏼🍳💋
Romantic Suspense
Resort Owner X Assassin
Secret Society
Rivals to Lovers
Age Gap (40/29)
Forced Proximity
Found Family
Shocker to no one.
Another 5⭐ read from Brandy
I straight up devoured this audio, narration in duet by Angelina Rocca & Jason Clarke
If you want a book that is equal parts amazing plot, suspense and steamy spice, you need to read a Brandy book. This one is the perfect definition of the saying "keep your friends close, and enemies closer." Did I mention our FMC is a trained assassin & our MMC wears glasses 🫠 Zara is sent to La Lune Noire with a mission to scope out the Noire brothers, and one in particular, Axel, catches on to her motives really quick.
My review is you simply need to read this book. 👩🏼🍳💋
May 15, 2026
Absolute chef kiss, I have been waiting for papa Axe’s story and this didn’t disappoint.
The chemistry between Axel and Zara is top notch.
Axel relationship with his siblings can be seen in the previous books but in this story it shines and how his siblings love him and want to protect his happiness is so beautiful.
This is a 4.5 star read
The chemistry between Axel and Zara is top notch.
Axel relationship with his siblings can be seen in the previous books but in this story it shines and how his siblings love him and want to protect his happiness is so beautiful.
This is a 4.5 star read
May 16, 2026
This book is everything I didn't know I needed in a dark mafia romance!! 🔥🥵😍
🎙️ Then add the audiobook and this story comes to life in your ears and you never want to stop listening especially with the amazing duet narration of Jason Clarke and Angelina Rocca!
I did immersive reading with the audiobook and eBook and loved it! I got so immerse in the story!
This is my first book by Brandy Hynes and trust me it won't be my last! I went and bought a bunch of her audiobooks since now I need to read/listen to the other Noire brothers plus the KORT series. This book is actually book 3 in the Noire Brothers but I was able to still understand everything but I am now definitely curious about learning the love story of the other couples.
I absolutely love our badass FMC Zara and Papa Axe!! Axel Noire was such a goner for Zara from the start even if he tried to fight it with the excuse of the age gap at first. I love how well their relationship developed and their chemistry was undeniable. The little book notes exchanges were so cute and he was so devoted to her and willing to give her anything she wanted.
The spice in this book was definitely very hot especially with the dom/sub aspect. That scene in the conference room and then tunnels was absolute fire!! So damn hot!
I love the found family trope in this book and how all his brothers and significant others were there for each other plus the family group chat was just hilarious with all the banter! Plus weekly dinners and those game nights were so fun!
🎧 When it comes to the audiobook, we couldn't ask for a better cast! Jason Clarke was perfect as Axel Noire and did his growly voice perfectly. Then we had Angelina Rocca as Zara and she played her beautifully with all the layers required to really showcase all the emotions she was feeling. Then put them together and their chemistry was fire and the spicy scenes in audio were next level!!
Rating: 5⭐
Spice: 3.5🌶️
Audiobook: 5🎧
Audiobook Format: Duet Narration
Tropes in this book:
🖤 Dark mafia romance
🖤 Dark romantic suspense
🖤 Assassin FMC & he is her assignment
🖤 Age gap (11 years) - 29 FMC & 40 MMC
🖤 Secret society
🖤 Found family
🖤 Billionaire
🖤 Forced proximity
🖤 Touch him or her and d!e
🖤 Rivals to love
🖤 Insta attraction
🖤 Badass FMC
🖤 Pierced MMC
🖤 Dom/sub
Thank you to Valentine PR and Brandy Hynes for my advanced copy of the audiobook, these are my honest thoughts.
🎙️ Then add the audiobook and this story comes to life in your ears and you never want to stop listening especially with the amazing duet narration of Jason Clarke and Angelina Rocca!
I did immersive reading with the audiobook and eBook and loved it! I got so immerse in the story!
This is my first book by Brandy Hynes and trust me it won't be my last! I went and bought a bunch of her audiobooks since now I need to read/listen to the other Noire brothers plus the KORT series. This book is actually book 3 in the Noire Brothers but I was able to still understand everything but I am now definitely curious about learning the love story of the other couples.
I absolutely love our badass FMC Zara and Papa Axe!! Axel Noire was such a goner for Zara from the start even if he tried to fight it with the excuse of the age gap at first. I love how well their relationship developed and their chemistry was undeniable. The little book notes exchanges were so cute and he was so devoted to her and willing to give her anything she wanted.
The spice in this book was definitely very hot especially with the dom/sub aspect. That scene in the conference room and then tunnels was absolute fire!! So damn hot!
I love the found family trope in this book and how all his brothers and significant others were there for each other plus the family group chat was just hilarious with all the banter! Plus weekly dinners and those game nights were so fun!
🎧 When it comes to the audiobook, we couldn't ask for a better cast! Jason Clarke was perfect as Axel Noire and did his growly voice perfectly. Then we had Angelina Rocca as Zara and she played her beautifully with all the layers required to really showcase all the emotions she was feeling. Then put them together and their chemistry was fire and the spicy scenes in audio were next level!!
Rating: 5⭐
Spice: 3.5🌶️
Audiobook: 5🎧
Audiobook Format: Duet Narration
Tropes in this book:
🖤 Dark mafia romance
🖤 Dark romantic suspense
🖤 Assassin FMC & he is her assignment
🖤 Age gap (11 years) - 29 FMC & 40 MMC
🖤 Secret society
🖤 Found family
🖤 Billionaire
🖤 Forced proximity
🖤 Touch him or her and d!e
🖤 Rivals to love
🖤 Insta attraction
🖤 Badass FMC
🖤 Pierced MMC
🖤 Dom/sub
Thank you to Valentine PR and Brandy Hynes for my advanced copy of the audiobook, these are my honest thoughts.
May 20, 2026
Here’s me continuing to love this series.
(Thank you to the author and Valentine PR for the early copy and sorry for the late ARC Review!)
And so we were gifted with the highly anticipated Papa Axe 😩
I had been so looking forward to his story and was not disappointed. Just like what was shown in the other books; Axel is doting, loving, loyal but also intimidating and honestly…incredibly HOT. The WHISTLING?? Not sure if that was intended to be as 🥵 as it was, but… I did not expect him to be as domineering as he was, despite his role in his family and La Lune Noire, but it was a welcome find!
Getting to know Zara was an experience. I really liked her character and what she brought to the table. Her badassery mixed with her ache for wanting more for her life was refreshing. She was strong, skilled, loyal, and so ready for kinship and love.
Axel & Zara together- it was nice watching them do what they need to do while finding themselves within each other and outside of their responsibilities. Since Day 1 and even back in KORT days, it was obvious Axel deserved a love that strengthened him and full of comfort. I’m so glad to have gotten to see that! I love Axel so bad 😭 Plus their chemistry was sooo good!
Admittedly, towards the last section of the story I started to feel like something was missing, but I can’t quite pinpoint what—which is the only reason I gave 4, not 5. It’s possible later on it’ll get bumped up!
I have enjoyed every book Brandy has written and I anxiously anticipate all future ones! I am sensing the possible set up for the next 👀 and I am SO excited for it. I need ittt!!!
All in all, thank you for Papa Axe!! Looking forward to the next!! 😮💨❤️
(Thank you to the author and Valentine PR for the early copy and sorry for the late ARC Review!)
And so we were gifted with the highly anticipated Papa Axe 😩
I had been so looking forward to his story and was not disappointed. Just like what was shown in the other books; Axel is doting, loving, loyal but also intimidating and honestly…incredibly HOT. The WHISTLING?? Not sure if that was intended to be as 🥵 as it was, but… I did not expect him to be as domineering as he was, despite his role in his family and La Lune Noire, but it was a welcome find!
Getting to know Zara was an experience. I really liked her character and what she brought to the table. Her badassery mixed with her ache for wanting more for her life was refreshing. She was strong, skilled, loyal, and so ready for kinship and love.
Axel & Zara together- it was nice watching them do what they need to do while finding themselves within each other and outside of their responsibilities. Since Day 1 and even back in KORT days, it was obvious Axel deserved a love that strengthened him and full of comfort. I’m so glad to have gotten to see that! I love Axel so bad 😭 Plus their chemistry was sooo good!
Admittedly, towards the last section of the story I started to feel like something was missing, but I can’t quite pinpoint what—which is the only reason I gave 4, not 5. It’s possible later on it’ll get bumped up!
I have enjoyed every book Brandy has written and I anxiously anticipate all future ones! I am sensing the possible set up for the next 👀 and I am SO excited for it. I need ittt!!!
All in all, thank you for Papa Axe!! Looking forward to the next!! 😮💨❤️
May 14, 2026
OVERALL: 🌟🌟🌟🌟.5
•Storyline: ⭐⭐️⭐️⭐
•Duet Narration: 🎧🎧🎧🎧🎧
🎙️Jason Clarke and Angelina Rocca
•Spice Level: 🌶🌶️.5
•Trope:
Billionaire Romance
Age-gap
Secret Society
Close Proximity
Possessive MC
Strong Heroine
Series: Noir Series: book #3
• THOUGHTS:
Papa Ax!! Oh my good night how I loved Papa Ax!! He has held my attention since KORT series. He is every bit alluring, and hot as I had imagined. His dominant personality, but the deep love he has for the people in his circle swwooonn!! He is not selfish he is so giving and the possessive nature you see when he is around Zara. Sigh. Okay obviously I love me Axel Noir. Zara! Oh she was a strong willed, spicy lady! Truthfully I think matches what Axel needs. This story is a wild ride! But that is on par with all of Brandy's books. I really enjoyed Roulette Rising. I will say I wish Zara and Axel had more one on one time and that we were able to see how they interacted with all the Noirs. I really do love their family dynamic. That would be my one critique. I still loved it though!
Oookkaayy, narrator chat time:
Jason and Angelina were amazing!! Period end of discussion. You're welcome.
•Storyline: ⭐⭐️⭐️⭐
•Duet Narration: 🎧🎧🎧🎧🎧
🎙️Jason Clarke and Angelina Rocca
•Spice Level: 🌶🌶️.5
•Trope:
Billionaire Romance
Age-gap
Secret Society
Close Proximity
Possessive MC
Strong Heroine
Series: Noir Series: book #3
• THOUGHTS:
Papa Ax!! Oh my good night how I loved Papa Ax!! He has held my attention since KORT series. He is every bit alluring, and hot as I had imagined. His dominant personality, but the deep love he has for the people in his circle swwooonn!! He is not selfish he is so giving and the possessive nature you see when he is around Zara. Sigh. Okay obviously I love me Axel Noir. Zara! Oh she was a strong willed, spicy lady! Truthfully I think matches what Axel needs. This story is a wild ride! But that is on par with all of Brandy's books. I really enjoyed Roulette Rising. I will say I wish Zara and Axel had more one on one time and that we were able to see how they interacted with all the Noirs. I really do love their family dynamic. That would be my one critique. I still loved it though!
Oookkaayy, narrator chat time:
Jason and Angelina were amazing!! Period end of discussion. You're welcome.
May 11, 2026
Maddox had my whole heart, until Papa Axe stormed in and rewrote the definition of obsession!!
Axel built La Lune Noire with his family, ran it like a sanctuary, and kept every detail locked down, then a stunning assassin shows up and detonates, and yeah, he becomes obsessed. And how could he not, Zara is pure force! She's sharp, lethal, unshakeable, the only one who can match his intensity.
Brandy, you gave us a morally grey power couple who actually match each other, and yeah, I ate that up. The push/pull with constant tension, loaded eye contact, banter that low-key feels like foreplay, and a slow burn that pays off hard. And not to forget the plot that stays messy in the best Brandy way possible, with twists, secrets, and high-stakes chaos popping off everywhere. Then she gives us tiny easter eggs sprinkled throughout, hinting at a much bigger KORT/Noire storyline brewing... I'm absolutely FNK obsessed.
Axel built La Lune Noire with his family, ran it like a sanctuary, and kept every detail locked down, then a stunning assassin shows up and detonates, and yeah, he becomes obsessed. And how could he not, Zara is pure force! She's sharp, lethal, unshakeable, the only one who can match his intensity.
Brandy, you gave us a morally grey power couple who actually match each other, and yeah, I ate that up. The push/pull with constant tension, loaded eye contact, banter that low-key feels like foreplay, and a slow burn that pays off hard. And not to forget the plot that stays messy in the best Brandy way possible, with twists, secrets, and high-stakes chaos popping off everywhere. Then she gives us tiny easter eggs sprinkled throughout, hinting at a much bigger KORT/Noire storyline brewing... I'm absolutely FNK obsessed.
May 18, 2026
Brandy does it again! Every book I think that the next book couldn’t possibly top this last one and it does! I am obsessed with Axel and Zara. Both were perfect for each other. The slow burn and tension was delicious and I couldn’t get enough. Everyone needs to read this and the KORT series!
🎧 𝘼𝙪𝙙𝙞𝙤𝙗𝙤𝙤𝙠 𝙧𝙚𝙫𝙞𝙚𝙬: 𝙅𝙖𝙨𝙤𝙣 𝘾𝙡𝙖𝙧𝙠𝙚 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝘼𝙣𝙜𝙚𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙖 𝙍𝙤𝙘𝙘𝙖 𝙬𝙚𝙧𝙚 𝙥𝙝𝙚𝙣𝙤𝙢𝙚𝙣𝙖𝙡 𝙖𝙨 𝘼𝙭𝙚𝙡 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙕𝙖𝙧𝙖! 𝙅𝙖𝙨𝙤𝙣 𝙝𝙖𝙨 𝙜𝙤𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙜𝙧𝙤𝙫𝙚𝙡 𝙙𝙤𝙬𝙣 𝙨𝙤 𝙬𝙚𝙡𝙡 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙮 𝙗𝙤𝙩𝙝 𝙗𝙧𝙤𝙪𝙜𝙝𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙩𝙚𝙣𝙨𝙞𝙤𝙣 𝙗𝙚𝙩𝙬𝙚𝙚𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙘𝙝𝙖𝙧𝙖𝙘𝙩𝙚𝙧𝙨 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙞𝙧 𝙚𝙢𝙤𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣𝙨 𝙩𝙤 𝙡𝙞𝙛𝙚!
🖤 Rivals to lovers
🖤 Age gap
🖤 Billionaire
🖤 Dark romance
🖤 Secret society
🖤 Found family
🖤 Morally gray MMC & FMC
Rating ⭐️: 5/5 | Spice 🌶️: 3/5 | Audio 🎧: 5/5
Thank you Brandy for the ALC! 🖤
🎧 𝘼𝙪𝙙𝙞𝙤𝙗𝙤𝙤𝙠 𝙧𝙚𝙫𝙞𝙚𝙬: 𝙅𝙖𝙨𝙤𝙣 𝘾𝙡𝙖𝙧𝙠𝙚 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝘼𝙣𝙜𝙚𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙖 𝙍𝙤𝙘𝙘𝙖 𝙬𝙚𝙧𝙚 𝙥𝙝𝙚𝙣𝙤𝙢𝙚𝙣𝙖𝙡 𝙖𝙨 𝘼𝙭𝙚𝙡 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙕𝙖𝙧𝙖! 𝙅𝙖𝙨𝙤𝙣 𝙝𝙖𝙨 𝙜𝙤𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙜𝙧𝙤𝙫𝙚𝙡 𝙙𝙤𝙬𝙣 𝙨𝙤 𝙬𝙚𝙡𝙡 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙮 𝙗𝙤𝙩𝙝 𝙗𝙧𝙤𝙪𝙜𝙝𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙩𝙚𝙣𝙨𝙞𝙤𝙣 𝙗𝙚𝙩𝙬𝙚𝙚𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙘𝙝𝙖𝙧𝙖𝙘𝙩𝙚𝙧𝙨 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙞𝙧 𝙚𝙢𝙤𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣𝙨 𝙩𝙤 𝙡𝙞𝙛𝙚!
🖤 Rivals to lovers
🖤 Age gap
🖤 Billionaire
🖤 Dark romance
🖤 Secret society
🖤 Found family
🖤 Morally gray MMC & FMC
Rating ⭐️: 5/5 | Spice 🌶️: 3/5 | Audio 🎧: 5/5
Thank you Brandy for the ALC! 🖤
May 11, 2026
⭐⭐⭐⭐.25
🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
Threats being posed on the family and an assassin has entered the resort...Welcome back to La Lune Noire! 🎲🍒 Trained by her father to be the best of the best in the assassin world, Zara finds herself infiltrating the Noire family but why and for who? She has no idea, but Papa Axe is onto her!
I have been wanting Axel's story for so long and this one was so worth the wait! I knew he was going to be HOT and boy, did he deliver 🥵 Falling in love was never part of the plan for Axel, but once he did there was no turning back - loyalty be damned.
Even more so, the plot of this series is seriously plotting!! As a sucker for romantic suspense, I keep wanting each book more and more with this found family that pulls you in from the start.
🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
Threats being posed on the family and an assassin has entered the resort...Welcome back to La Lune Noire! 🎲🍒 Trained by her father to be the best of the best in the assassin world, Zara finds herself infiltrating the Noire family but why and for who? She has no idea, but Papa Axe is onto her!
I have been wanting Axel's story for so long and this one was so worth the wait! I knew he was going to be HOT and boy, did he deliver 🥵 Falling in love was never part of the plan for Axel, but once he did there was no turning back - loyalty be damned.
Even more so, the plot of this series is seriously plotting!! As a sucker for romantic suspense, I keep wanting each book more and more with this found family that pulls you in from the start.
May 1, 2026
Book 3 in the Noire brothers series.
The eldest Noire brother finds his queen 👑
Another great story in this series following Papa Axel and his assassin Zara. Lots of chemistry, intrigue, suspense and an explosive ending! I cant wait for more in this series.
Releasing 8th May 2026. Can be read as a standalone but in my opinion there’s definitely some history and humour you will miss out on if you’ve not read the first 2 books in the series.
Thanks to Valentine PR and Brandy Hynes for the advanced copy.
The eldest Noire brother finds his queen 👑
Another great story in this series following Papa Axel and his assassin Zara. Lots of chemistry, intrigue, suspense and an explosive ending! I cant wait for more in this series.
Releasing 8th May 2026. Can be read as a standalone but in my opinion there’s definitely some history and humour you will miss out on if you’ve not read the first 2 books in the series.
Thanks to Valentine PR and Brandy Hynes for the advanced copy.
May 8, 2026
I think this might be my favourite trip to La Lune Noire so far.
Axel and Zara were absolutely perfect. I loved how drawn to each other they were from the second they meet and how Axel fully embraced Zara even knowing she had an ulterior motive.
This book is jam packed full of action, suspense and ALL the spice. I always knew Axel would be an absolute beast!!.
The narrators were phenomenal. Jason Clarke and Angelina Rocca smashed it out of the park with there performance. I honestly don't think there could have been a better pick for Axel and Zara.
Axel and Zara were absolutely perfect. I loved how drawn to each other they were from the second they meet and how Axel fully embraced Zara even knowing she had an ulterior motive.
This book is jam packed full of action, suspense and ALL the spice. I always knew Axel would be an absolute beast!!.
The narrators were phenomenal. Jason Clarke and Angelina Rocca smashed it out of the park with there performance. I honestly don't think there could have been a better pick for Axel and Zara.
May 14, 2026
As if you’d ever use a safe word with Papa Axe 🤭
The eldest Noire is absolute book husband material. Zara was a truly worthy partner of the man who suffers it all for his family. I love what she brought to the book and how her character tied so many elements from each parts of the story together. Angelina and Jason’s narrations were sublime, the emotion held in each line delivered, the tension, the reverence, everything Brandy wrote, truly brought to life.
This is the third book in Noire Brothers series that brings us back to the KORT series. I loved that it bridge the gap of the ending of KORT.
I highly recommend both these series, in fact if you’re going to read any of my recommendations make it these ones!
Blown away by another Brandy Hynes masterpiece.
“There is no escaping this. Not now, Zar. No escape. You’re mine.”
“Good girl. You should always be savored, Zara. Cherished.”
“I’ll mend, protect, cherish and ruin you.”
The eldest Noire is absolute book husband material. Zara was a truly worthy partner of the man who suffers it all for his family. I love what she brought to the book and how her character tied so many elements from each parts of the story together. Angelina and Jason’s narrations were sublime, the emotion held in each line delivered, the tension, the reverence, everything Brandy wrote, truly brought to life.
This is the third book in Noire Brothers series that brings us back to the KORT series. I loved that it bridge the gap of the ending of KORT.
I highly recommend both these series, in fact if you’re going to read any of my recommendations make it these ones!
Blown away by another Brandy Hynes masterpiece.
“There is no escaping this. Not now, Zar. No escape. You’re mine.”
“Good girl. You should always be savored, Zara. Cherished.”
“I’ll mend, protect, cherish and ruin you.”
May 13, 2026
This series is fantastic, it keeps getting better with every book. Brandy has a way of writing that mesmerizes you, pulls you in and doesn’t let go. I finished listening to this book in less the. 24hrs, I couldn’t out it down.
If you love a fierce, capable, strong FMC you’ll love Zara. She’s a trained assassin sent on an unknown mission, but finds herself caught between what she wants and what needs to be done.
The narration was performed in duet by Jason Clarke & Angelina Rocca. This narrator combination was perfection..
Thank you Brandy Hynes and Valentine PR for the ALC.
This is my honest review and was left voluntarily.
If you love a fierce, capable, strong FMC you’ll love Zara. She’s a trained assassin sent on an unknown mission, but finds herself caught between what she wants and what needs to be done.
The narration was performed in duet by Jason Clarke & Angelina Rocca. This narrator combination was perfection..
Thank you Brandy Hynes and Valentine PR for the ALC.
This is my honest review and was left voluntarily.
May 15, 2026
I was absolutely FERAL for Papa Axe's story. We knew he needed a strong woman and he absolutely got that in Zara. Their chemistry was off the charts.
I was hooked on their story from the start and couldn't put this one down!
I was hooked on their story from the start and couldn't put this one down!
May 22, 2026
♾️♾️⭐️
Axel’s book has been one of my most anticipated reads ever since we first met him back in Burning Ivy, so to say I went into this with ridiculously high expectations would be an understatement. Six books later, finally getting his story honestly felt a little surreal… and somehow Brandy still managed to completely blow my expectations out of the water. I finished this book and was immediately sad it was over wondering how anything I read next could possibly compare.
What really made this book work for me was how well balanced everything felt. The romance, the tension, the family dynamics, the humor, the emotional vulnerability underneath all the violence and power plays — it all blended together so naturally. And getting both Axel and Zara’s POV equally made such a huge difference because you weren’t just watching the tension build from one side. You got to fully experience both of them slowly losing their minds over each other in real time.
Zara was such a perfect match for Axel. Their shared connection through losing their mothers gave them this quiet understanding of each other without turning their relationship into some giant resentment-filled mess. She understood almost immediately that Axel was nothing like his father, and I loved that she saw him instead of the legacy attached to his name.
But beyond that, Zara just felt incredibly real to me. Yes, she was a total badass and an absolute killer when she needed to be, but underneath all of that she was also just a girl hopelessly crushing on someone she knew she couldn’t have and carrying around this huge amount of loneliness and longing. The vulnerable side of her came through long before Axel fully got to see it, and honestly, those moments hit me the hardest. She wanted so badly to belong somewhere, to have the kind of closeness and family Axel had surrounding him, and watching her quietly ache for that without fully believing she deserved it was heartbreaking in the best way.
I also appreciated that she never tried to twist herself into denying what she felt for Axel. She knew the situation was complicated. She understood the boundaries he’d built for himself and why he refused to cross them, and instead of trying to manipulate him or force something to happen, she just… felt it. She mourned it privately. Outwardly she kept her composure and dignity intact, but internally you could feel how much it hurt her to care deeply about someone she knew would never risk crossing those lines for her. There was something really mature and emotional about the way that was written.
And then there’s Axel. God. Watching this hyper-controlled, fiercely protective alpha male try to maintain order over every aspect of his life while internally going completely feral over Zara was deeply satisfying. This man had his entire life carefully organized around safety, control, protecting his family, protecting his kingdom — meanwhile Zara could literally just exist within his orbit and his brain would short-circuit. You could feel the restraint slipping more and more every time they were together, and the sexual tension between them was unreal. The buildup was so good because you knew it was only a matter of time before he completely unraveled over her. And when he finally did? Absolutely worth the wait.
The daddy Axe energy was wafting off these pages the entire time — that intensely dominant, touch-her-and-die kind of presence that made every scene with him feel charged. And once he finally gave in to what he felt for Zara, there was no hesitation left in him whatsoever. The chemistry between them was actually insane, my Kindle was hanging on for dear life, and Axel’s whole protective, possessive intensity somehow got even stronger once he stopped fighting himself. That man loved with his entire chest, and you could feel it in every single interaction afterward. It was everything I wanted from his character and more.
What made it even better though was how much humor balanced out all that intensity. Axel’s family trolling him over Zara had me laughing out loud repeatedly, especially the group chats. Everyone clocking his feelings before he was willing to admit them himself was hysterical. For someone so determined to stay in control at all times, his family absolutely refused to let him suffer quietly, and those moments added so much warmth to the story.
And then the final stretch of this book completely destroyed my nerves. The last 30% had me glued to my Kindle waiting for the other shoe to drop because I already knew from the previous KORT books that nothing is ever as straightforward as it seems. Every time I thought I understood where things were headed, another twist would hit. The tension just kept building and building until I physically could not put the book down.
Technically these books are considered standalone, but honestly I cannot imagine reading this series without the KORT context as well as the prior two books in this series first. Having all that history made Axel’s story hit so much harder emotionally, especially after waiting this long for it.
I would’ve been devastated if his book had fallen flat, but instead it somehow became everything I wanted and more. This one is absolutely going to live rent-free in my head for a long time, and after reflecting on it for a few days I do think this has taken the top spot in my favorite books of the year.
💫Thank you to Valentine PR and Brandy Hynes for this outstanding ARC💫
Axel’s book has been one of my most anticipated reads ever since we first met him back in Burning Ivy, so to say I went into this with ridiculously high expectations would be an understatement. Six books later, finally getting his story honestly felt a little surreal… and somehow Brandy still managed to completely blow my expectations out of the water. I finished this book and was immediately sad it was over wondering how anything I read next could possibly compare.
What really made this book work for me was how well balanced everything felt. The romance, the tension, the family dynamics, the humor, the emotional vulnerability underneath all the violence and power plays — it all blended together so naturally. And getting both Axel and Zara’s POV equally made such a huge difference because you weren’t just watching the tension build from one side. You got to fully experience both of them slowly losing their minds over each other in real time.
Zara was such a perfect match for Axel. Their shared connection through losing their mothers gave them this quiet understanding of each other without turning their relationship into some giant resentment-filled mess. She understood almost immediately that Axel was nothing like his father, and I loved that she saw him instead of the legacy attached to his name.
But beyond that, Zara just felt incredibly real to me. Yes, she was a total badass and an absolute killer when she needed to be, but underneath all of that she was also just a girl hopelessly crushing on someone she knew she couldn’t have and carrying around this huge amount of loneliness and longing. The vulnerable side of her came through long before Axel fully got to see it, and honestly, those moments hit me the hardest. She wanted so badly to belong somewhere, to have the kind of closeness and family Axel had surrounding him, and watching her quietly ache for that without fully believing she deserved it was heartbreaking in the best way.
I also appreciated that she never tried to twist herself into denying what she felt for Axel. She knew the situation was complicated. She understood the boundaries he’d built for himself and why he refused to cross them, and instead of trying to manipulate him or force something to happen, she just… felt it. She mourned it privately. Outwardly she kept her composure and dignity intact, but internally you could feel how much it hurt her to care deeply about someone she knew would never risk crossing those lines for her. There was something really mature and emotional about the way that was written.
And then there’s Axel. God. Watching this hyper-controlled, fiercely protective alpha male try to maintain order over every aspect of his life while internally going completely feral over Zara was deeply satisfying. This man had his entire life carefully organized around safety, control, protecting his family, protecting his kingdom — meanwhile Zara could literally just exist within his orbit and his brain would short-circuit. You could feel the restraint slipping more and more every time they were together, and the sexual tension between them was unreal. The buildup was so good because you knew it was only a matter of time before he completely unraveled over her. And when he finally did? Absolutely worth the wait.
The daddy Axe energy was wafting off these pages the entire time — that intensely dominant, touch-her-and-die kind of presence that made every scene with him feel charged. And once he finally gave in to what he felt for Zara, there was no hesitation left in him whatsoever. The chemistry between them was actually insane, my Kindle was hanging on for dear life, and Axel’s whole protective, possessive intensity somehow got even stronger once he stopped fighting himself. That man loved with his entire chest, and you could feel it in every single interaction afterward. It was everything I wanted from his character and more.
What made it even better though was how much humor balanced out all that intensity. Axel’s family trolling him over Zara had me laughing out loud repeatedly, especially the group chats. Everyone clocking his feelings before he was willing to admit them himself was hysterical. For someone so determined to stay in control at all times, his family absolutely refused to let him suffer quietly, and those moments added so much warmth to the story.
And then the final stretch of this book completely destroyed my nerves. The last 30% had me glued to my Kindle waiting for the other shoe to drop because I already knew from the previous KORT books that nothing is ever as straightforward as it seems. Every time I thought I understood where things were headed, another twist would hit. The tension just kept building and building until I physically could not put the book down.
Technically these books are considered standalone, but honestly I cannot imagine reading this series without the KORT context as well as the prior two books in this series first. Having all that history made Axel’s story hit so much harder emotionally, especially after waiting this long for it.
I would’ve been devastated if his book had fallen flat, but instead it somehow became everything I wanted and more. This one is absolutely going to live rent-free in my head for a long time, and after reflecting on it for a few days I do think this has taken the top spot in my favorite books of the year.
💫Thank you to Valentine PR and Brandy Hynes for this outstanding ARC💫
May 4, 2026
🖤🎰 A deadly game, a ruthless king, and an assassin who never planned to lose… until him. 🎰🖤
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.5/5)
Spice-meter: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️☆ (4/5)
Audiobook: 🎧 Duet
Series: Noire Brothers, Book 3 (interconnected standalone)
HEA: Yes
Roulette Rising is dark, seductive, and dripping with tension from the very first page. Brandy Hynes once again proves she doesn’t just write romance, she builds an entire atmosphere around it. This book pulls you into a world of power, danger, and obsession, where every interaction feels like a calculated move in a game neither of them can afford to lose.
What stands out most here is the balance. The suspense keeps the story sharp and unpredictable, while the romance builds with intention. This is very much a slow burn, but don’t get comfortable, because when it hits, it hits hard. The push and pull between Axel and Zara is relentless, layered with mind games, hidden agendas, and a chemistry that refuses to be ignored.
The Story
Axel Noire rules La Lune Noire with absolute control. His world is built on power, precision, and the understanding that the house always wins.
Until Zara walks in.
Zara West is sharp, deadly, and entirely focused on her mission. Getting close to Axel is just part of the plan. Playing along, gaining his trust, maybe even enjoying the tension a little? That’s all strategy.
At least, that’s what she tells herself.
Because from the moment they meet, nothing feels simple. Their connection is immediate, dangerous, and impossible to ignore. Every glance feels loaded, every conversation a challenge. They circle each other like predators, both convinced they hold the upper hand.
But this isn’t a game you walk away from unscathed.
And when the truth starts unraveling, the line between control and obsession blurs beyond recognition.
🎧 Narration
Performed in duet by Jason Clarke and Angelina Rocca and honestly, this is what audiobook perfection sounds like.
Jason Clarke delivers Axel with that deep, commanding presence that just fits. Controlled, dangerous, and effortlessly seductive, he embodies every inch of Axel’s power. Angelina Rocca brings Zara to life with precision fierce, intelligent, and emotionally layered without ever losing her edge.
Together, they don’t just narrate the story they elevate it. The tension, the pacing, the chemistry… it all lands exactly where it should.
What I Loved
✔️ A morally grey power couple that actually matches each other
✔️ Intense push-and-pull with constant underlying tension
✔️ Slow burn that makes the payoff even more satisfying
✔️ A plot filled with twists, secrets, and high-stakes suspense
✔️ Found family that continues to shine in this series
✔️ Banter, flirting, and those loaded, stolen moments
✔️ The darker tone paired with emotional depth
✔️ Easter eggs hinting at the bigger KORT/Noire world
Tropes & Vibes
✔️ Dark Romance
✔️ Enemies to Lovers
✔️ Assassin Heroine
✔️ Crime Boss Hero
✔️ Morally Grey MCs
✔️ Age Gap (11 years)
✔️ Secret Society
✔️ Found Family
✔️ Power Play & Mind Games
✔️ Obsession to Love
✔️ High Stakes Attraction
✔️ Casino Setting
Final Thoughts
Roulette Rising is intense, addictive, and impossible to put down. It delivers everything you expect from a Brandy Hynes book: layered characters, sharp tension, emotional depth, and spice that feels earned rather than thrown in for effect.
Axel and Zara are a perfect storm dangerous, consuming, and completely inevitable. Their story thrives on control, but what makes it compelling is watching that control slowly unravel.
If anything, the slow burn might test your patience but that’s exactly what makes the payoff so satisfying when it finally comes.
This series just keeps getting stronger, and at this point, the anticipation for what’s coming next (Cash and Jax, I’m looking at you) is already ridiculous.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.5/5)
Spice-meter: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️☆ (4/5)
Audiobook: 🎧 Duet
Series: Noire Brothers, Book 3 (interconnected standalone)
HEA: Yes
Roulette Rising is dark, seductive, and dripping with tension from the very first page. Brandy Hynes once again proves she doesn’t just write romance, she builds an entire atmosphere around it. This book pulls you into a world of power, danger, and obsession, where every interaction feels like a calculated move in a game neither of them can afford to lose.
What stands out most here is the balance. The suspense keeps the story sharp and unpredictable, while the romance builds with intention. This is very much a slow burn, but don’t get comfortable, because when it hits, it hits hard. The push and pull between Axel and Zara is relentless, layered with mind games, hidden agendas, and a chemistry that refuses to be ignored.
The Story
Axel Noire rules La Lune Noire with absolute control. His world is built on power, precision, and the understanding that the house always wins.
Until Zara walks in.
Zara West is sharp, deadly, and entirely focused on her mission. Getting close to Axel is just part of the plan. Playing along, gaining his trust, maybe even enjoying the tension a little? That’s all strategy.
At least, that’s what she tells herself.
Because from the moment they meet, nothing feels simple. Their connection is immediate, dangerous, and impossible to ignore. Every glance feels loaded, every conversation a challenge. They circle each other like predators, both convinced they hold the upper hand.
But this isn’t a game you walk away from unscathed.
And when the truth starts unraveling, the line between control and obsession blurs beyond recognition.
🎧 Narration
Performed in duet by Jason Clarke and Angelina Rocca and honestly, this is what audiobook perfection sounds like.
Jason Clarke delivers Axel with that deep, commanding presence that just fits. Controlled, dangerous, and effortlessly seductive, he embodies every inch of Axel’s power. Angelina Rocca brings Zara to life with precision fierce, intelligent, and emotionally layered without ever losing her edge.
Together, they don’t just narrate the story they elevate it. The tension, the pacing, the chemistry… it all lands exactly where it should.
What I Loved
✔️ A morally grey power couple that actually matches each other
✔️ Intense push-and-pull with constant underlying tension
✔️ Slow burn that makes the payoff even more satisfying
✔️ A plot filled with twists, secrets, and high-stakes suspense
✔️ Found family that continues to shine in this series
✔️ Banter, flirting, and those loaded, stolen moments
✔️ The darker tone paired with emotional depth
✔️ Easter eggs hinting at the bigger KORT/Noire world
Tropes & Vibes
✔️ Dark Romance
✔️ Enemies to Lovers
✔️ Assassin Heroine
✔️ Crime Boss Hero
✔️ Morally Grey MCs
✔️ Age Gap (11 years)
✔️ Secret Society
✔️ Found Family
✔️ Power Play & Mind Games
✔️ Obsession to Love
✔️ High Stakes Attraction
✔️ Casino Setting
Final Thoughts
Roulette Rising is intense, addictive, and impossible to put down. It delivers everything you expect from a Brandy Hynes book: layered characters, sharp tension, emotional depth, and spice that feels earned rather than thrown in for effect.
Axel and Zara are a perfect storm dangerous, consuming, and completely inevitable. Their story thrives on control, but what makes it compelling is watching that control slowly unravel.
If anything, the slow burn might test your patience but that’s exactly what makes the payoff so satisfying when it finally comes.
This series just keeps getting stronger, and at this point, the anticipation for what’s coming next (Cash and Jax, I’m looking at you) is already ridiculous.
Read
May 12, 2026🎰🖤 A Dangerous Game of Obsession, Power & Seduction 🖤🍒
Never disappointed with Brandy Hynes, she always delivers.
“Always Bet On Green”
5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
AUDIOBOOK REVIEW ALC🎧
Roulette Rising by Brandy Hynes
Performed by Angelina Rocca and Jason Clarke
🍒♣️Noires play to conquer, and this is the devil’s game.♣️🎰
This is Axel Noire & Zara West Story
🎲
Axel Noire
La Lune Noire that’s his resort, his world, his life.
The king of the underworld—is more than the suit, the power and the city that worships him.
Until..Her.
♠️A spinning wheel. A one-shot chamber.🎰
♣️Red or black, high or low, odd or even.♠️
🍒
Zara West
the stunning assassin,with her mahogany hair, quick wit, and a cherry obsession.
There’s no mission too impossible for her.
Until Axle Noire.
♥️Hit or live.♥️
🎰One shield. One sword. One stone.♣️
💚Flip the coin, or never say die.🎲
Roulette Rising by Brandy Hynes completely pulled me into its dark, glamorous world and refused to let go. This audiobook was addictive controled chaos in the best possible way — packed with morally gray characters, dangerous attraction, suspense, possessiveness, and chemistry so intense it practically crackled through my headphones.
⏱️
Axel Noire is the kind of MMC that walks into a scene and owns every ounce of air in it. Powerful, ruthless, calculated… but absolutely wrecked by Zara in ways he never expected. And Zara? She’s sharp, fearless, deadly, and more than capable of matching Axel move for move. Their relationship felt like a high-stakes game where neither of them knew if they wanted to kiss or destroy the other first.
🍒
The tension between them was unreal.
Every interaction felt loaded — seductive, threatening, emotional, explosive.
The rivals-to-lovers dynamic mixed with the assassin/resort owner setup made this story impossible to pause. Add in the secret society vibes, forced proximity, found family moments, and dark suspense elements, and it became a full on obsession.
🎧𝙱𝚞𝚝 𝙻𝚒𝚜𝚝𝚎𝚗𝚗𝚗𝚗𝚗
The audiobook experience made everything even more intense. The duet narration brought Axel’s possessive dominance and Zara’s fire to life perfectly, making the emotional and spicy scenes hit even harder. Every whispered threat, every vulnerable crack, every heated moment felt cinematic.
Angelina Rocca and Jason Clarke totally made this audiobook experience worth listening!
It’s green If you love:
🖤 Billionaire Dark Romantic Suspense
🎰 Resort Owner/ Assassin
🍒 Age gap 40/29 (11 years)
🎲 Secret Society
🎰 Rivals to lovers (She's hired to infiltrate La Lune Noire)
🖤 Found Family
🍒 Forced proximity
🎰 Morally gray MMC & FMC
🖤 Dark Romantic Action/Suspense
🎰 Dom/sub
🖤 Touch her or him and die
🍒 Pierced MMC
🎰 Dangerous power couples
🖤 Rivals to lovers
🎰 Secret societies
🖤 Touch-her-and-die energy
🎰 Intense spice with BDSM elements
…then this audiobook deserves a spot at the top of your TBR immediately.
This wasn’t just romance — it was obsession wrapped in luxury, violence, temptation, and devotion. Axel and Zara absolutely consumed me.
Yet again.. Brandy Hynes never Missed.
Roulette Rising is book three in the 𝒩ℴ𝒾𝓇ℯ ℬ𝓇ℴ𝓉𝒽ℯ𝓇𝓈 series. It is a complete story. While some themes carry through the entire series, it is not necessary to read books one and two first.
𝚂𝚙𝚎𝚌𝚒𝚊𝚕 𝚜𝚑𝚘𝚞𝚝 𝚘𝚞𝚝 𝚝𝚘 𝚅𝚊𝚕𝚎𝚗𝚝𝚒𝚗𝚎_𝚙𝚛, 𝙰𝚞𝚝𝚑𝚘𝚛 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚝𝚎𝚊𝚖 𝚏𝚘𝚛 𝚊𝚕𝚕𝚘𝚠𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚖𝚎 𝚝𝚘 𝚓𝚞𝚖𝚙 𝚒𝚗𝚝𝚘 𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚜 𝚒𝚖𝚖𝚎𝚛𝚜𝚒𝚟𝚎 𝚊𝚞𝚍𝚒𝚘.
𝙰𝚗𝚍 𝚝𝚑𝚊𝚗𝚔𝚜 𝚖𝚢 𝚋𝚎𝚜𝚝𝚒𝚎𝚜 𝚏𝚘𝚛 𝚝𝚊𝚔𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚝𝚒𝚖𝚎 𝚛𝚎𝚊𝚍𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚖𝚢 𝚛𝚎𝚟𝚒𝚎𝚠 𝚛𝚊𝚖𝚋𝚕𝚒𝚗𝚐𝚜 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚛𝚎𝚌𝚘𝚖𝚖𝚎𝚗𝚍𝚎𝚍 𝚋𝚘𝚘𝚔𝚜.
𝚄𝚗𝚝𝚒𝚕 𝚗𝚎𝚡𝚝 𝚝𝚒𝚖𝚎
𝙾𝚗𝚎 𝙻𝚘𝚟𝚎 💕𝙾𝚗𝚎 𝚋𝚘𝚘𝚔 𝚊𝚝 𝚊 𝚝𝚒𝚖𝚎
🦋𝒢ℯ𝒾𝓇ℊ𝒾ℴ𝓊𝓈✿🦋✍︎☕︎
"𝒜𝓁𝓌𝒶𝓎𝓈 𝒮ℯ𝒶𝓇𝒸𝒽𝒾𝓃ℊ ℱℴ𝓇 ℳ𝓎 𝒩ℯ𝓍𝓉
𝒰𝓃𝒻ℴ𝓇ℊℯ𝓉𝓉𝒶𝒷𝓁ℯ 𝒜𝓊𝒹𝒾ℴ𝒷ℴℴ𝓀"🎧📚
Never disappointed with Brandy Hynes, she always delivers.
“Always Bet On Green”
5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
AUDIOBOOK REVIEW ALC🎧
Roulette Rising by Brandy Hynes
Performed by Angelina Rocca and Jason Clarke
🍒♣️Noires play to conquer, and this is the devil’s game.♣️🎰
This is Axel Noire & Zara West Story
🎲
Axel Noire
La Lune Noire that’s his resort, his world, his life.
The king of the underworld—is more than the suit, the power and the city that worships him.
Until..Her.
♠️A spinning wheel. A one-shot chamber.🎰
♣️Red or black, high or low, odd or even.♠️
🍒
Zara West
the stunning assassin,with her mahogany hair, quick wit, and a cherry obsession.
There’s no mission too impossible for her.
Until Axle Noire.
♥️Hit or live.♥️
🎰One shield. One sword. One stone.♣️
💚Flip the coin, or never say die.🎲
Roulette Rising by Brandy Hynes completely pulled me into its dark, glamorous world and refused to let go. This audiobook was addictive controled chaos in the best possible way — packed with morally gray characters, dangerous attraction, suspense, possessiveness, and chemistry so intense it practically crackled through my headphones.
⏱️
Axel Noire is the kind of MMC that walks into a scene and owns every ounce of air in it. Powerful, ruthless, calculated… but absolutely wrecked by Zara in ways he never expected. And Zara? She’s sharp, fearless, deadly, and more than capable of matching Axel move for move. Their relationship felt like a high-stakes game where neither of them knew if they wanted to kiss or destroy the other first.
🍒
The tension between them was unreal.
Every interaction felt loaded — seductive, threatening, emotional, explosive.
The rivals-to-lovers dynamic mixed with the assassin/resort owner setup made this story impossible to pause. Add in the secret society vibes, forced proximity, found family moments, and dark suspense elements, and it became a full on obsession.
🎧𝙱𝚞𝚝 𝙻𝚒𝚜𝚝𝚎𝚗𝚗𝚗𝚗𝚗
The audiobook experience made everything even more intense. The duet narration brought Axel’s possessive dominance and Zara’s fire to life perfectly, making the emotional and spicy scenes hit even harder. Every whispered threat, every vulnerable crack, every heated moment felt cinematic.
Angelina Rocca and Jason Clarke totally made this audiobook experience worth listening!
It’s green If you love:
🖤 Billionaire Dark Romantic Suspense
🎰 Resort Owner/ Assassin
🍒 Age gap 40/29 (11 years)
🎲 Secret Society
🎰 Rivals to lovers (She's hired to infiltrate La Lune Noire)
🖤 Found Family
🍒 Forced proximity
🎰 Morally gray MMC & FMC
🖤 Dark Romantic Action/Suspense
🎰 Dom/sub
🖤 Touch her or him and die
🍒 Pierced MMC
🎰 Dangerous power couples
🖤 Rivals to lovers
🎰 Secret societies
🖤 Touch-her-and-die energy
🎰 Intense spice with BDSM elements
…then this audiobook deserves a spot at the top of your TBR immediately.
This wasn’t just romance — it was obsession wrapped in luxury, violence, temptation, and devotion. Axel and Zara absolutely consumed me.
Yet again.. Brandy Hynes never Missed.
Roulette Rising is book three in the 𝒩ℴ𝒾𝓇ℯ ℬ𝓇ℴ𝓉𝒽ℯ𝓇𝓈 series. It is a complete story. While some themes carry through the entire series, it is not necessary to read books one and two first.
𝚂𝚙𝚎𝚌𝚒𝚊𝚕 𝚜𝚑𝚘𝚞𝚝 𝚘𝚞𝚝 𝚝𝚘 𝚅𝚊𝚕𝚎𝚗𝚝𝚒𝚗𝚎_𝚙𝚛, 𝙰𝚞𝚝𝚑𝚘𝚛 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚝𝚎𝚊𝚖 𝚏𝚘𝚛 𝚊𝚕𝚕𝚘𝚠𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚖𝚎 𝚝𝚘 𝚓𝚞𝚖𝚙 𝚒𝚗𝚝𝚘 𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚜 𝚒𝚖𝚖𝚎𝚛𝚜𝚒𝚟𝚎 𝚊𝚞𝚍𝚒𝚘.
𝙰𝚗𝚍 𝚝𝚑𝚊𝚗𝚔𝚜 𝚖𝚢 𝚋𝚎𝚜𝚝𝚒𝚎𝚜 𝚏𝚘𝚛 𝚝𝚊𝚔𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚝𝚒𝚖𝚎 𝚛𝚎𝚊𝚍𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚖𝚢 𝚛𝚎𝚟𝚒𝚎𝚠 𝚛𝚊𝚖𝚋𝚕𝚒𝚗𝚐𝚜 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚛𝚎𝚌𝚘𝚖𝚖𝚎𝚗𝚍𝚎𝚍 𝚋𝚘𝚘𝚔𝚜.
𝚄𝚗𝚝𝚒𝚕 𝚗𝚎𝚡𝚝 𝚝𝚒𝚖𝚎
𝙾𝚗𝚎 𝙻𝚘𝚟𝚎 💕𝙾𝚗𝚎 𝚋𝚘𝚘𝚔 𝚊𝚝 𝚊 𝚝𝚒𝚖𝚎
🦋𝒢ℯ𝒾𝓇ℊ𝒾ℴ𝓊𝓈✿🦋✍︎☕︎
"𝒜𝓁𝓌𝒶𝓎𝓈 𝒮ℯ𝒶𝓇𝒸𝒽𝒾𝓃ℊ ℱℴ𝓇 ℳ𝓎 𝒩ℯ𝓍𝓉
𝒰𝓃𝒻ℴ𝓇ℊℯ𝓉𝓉𝒶𝒷𝓁ℯ 𝒜𝓊𝒹𝒾ℴ𝒷ℴℴ𝓀"🎧📚
Review of advance copy
Exceptional Story & Narration🎧Thrilling & Engaging!
Roulette Rising
Noire Brothers, Book 3
By: Brandy Hynes
Narrated by: Angelina Rocca, Jason Clarke
Brandy Hynes never ceases to amaze me with the incredible stories she creates, the intriguing characters, and the world she built, all absolutely amazing, and I love the complexity of it all. This third book of “The Noire Brothers” series is Axel and Zara West’s story, and wow, what a story it is, one that captivates your attention like no other, once started you can not stop because you need to know what happens next. I have been looking forward to Axel’s story and learning more about him since first meeting him in KORT, and I didn’t think I could fall even harder for him or any character, but I did. The man is intense, controlling, cunning, and powerful, all the makings of the ruler of the kingdom he created and beyond. He also protects what is his and does so fiercely, including his family and the empire he built, and those who dare to cross him will probably pay with their lives. Zara, a killer of a woman, molded into the woman she became from a young age, and is good at what she does, a powerhouse in her own right, also cunning and likes to be in control, but knows how play her hand or play into the hand she is looking to play. An assigned mission brings her to La Lune Noire, but given minimal details to start was a disadvantage, especially with Axel Noire on the throne. Zara knew what she was getting into with La Lune Noire, and was up for the challenge, but Axel was unexpected. The electrified chemistry between these two was smoking hot, loved the push and pull, and how they challenged each other. The Noire brothers busting his chops was great, so was the family chat, and you got to love the camaraderie among them, their bond and the love. This is an amazing and masterfully crafted, multi-layered story with non-stop drama, angst, twists and turns, mystery, thrilling and suspenseful moments, family shenanigans and witty banter to lighten things up, heartfelt emotions, and steamy romance. As always, Hynes’s writing, way with words, and brilliant dialogue, plot, and world-building are incredible, as are the depth of the characters, their growth and development. Brandy Hynes, thank you for another exceptional story and wild ride.
🎧📚🎧 For the fabulous audiobook listen, Brandy Hynes excels at casting, always choosing the perfect narrators to voice her characters and bring them to life. The wonderfully talented Angelina Rocca and Jason Clarke were amazing in their roles, embodying their characters completely. Clarke nailed it as Axel, grasping every aspect of his personality, from his Papa Axe persona, the alpha, one in charge and in control, to his passionate feelings. Rocca was just as amazing as Zara in showcasing her personality and was a natural in her role, fierce, confident, and passionate with her feelings too. Both were fantastic performing the roles of the side and secondary characters, giving each their own distinct voice, making it easy to follow along. They are entertaining storytellers, and their engaging performance not only takes the already brilliant story to another level, but it keeps you hooked, too.
Roulette Rising
Noire Brothers, Book 3
By: Brandy Hynes
Narrated by: Angelina Rocca, Jason Clarke
Brandy Hynes never ceases to amaze me with the incredible stories she creates, the intriguing characters, and the world she built, all absolutely amazing, and I love the complexity of it all. This third book of “The Noire Brothers” series is Axel and Zara West’s story, and wow, what a story it is, one that captivates your attention like no other, once started you can not stop because you need to know what happens next. I have been looking forward to Axel’s story and learning more about him since first meeting him in KORT, and I didn’t think I could fall even harder for him or any character, but I did. The man is intense, controlling, cunning, and powerful, all the makings of the ruler of the kingdom he created and beyond. He also protects what is his and does so fiercely, including his family and the empire he built, and those who dare to cross him will probably pay with their lives. Zara, a killer of a woman, molded into the woman she became from a young age, and is good at what she does, a powerhouse in her own right, also cunning and likes to be in control, but knows how play her hand or play into the hand she is looking to play. An assigned mission brings her to La Lune Noire, but given minimal details to start was a disadvantage, especially with Axel Noire on the throne. Zara knew what she was getting into with La Lune Noire, and was up for the challenge, but Axel was unexpected. The electrified chemistry between these two was smoking hot, loved the push and pull, and how they challenged each other. The Noire brothers busting his chops was great, so was the family chat, and you got to love the camaraderie among them, their bond and the love. This is an amazing and masterfully crafted, multi-layered story with non-stop drama, angst, twists and turns, mystery, thrilling and suspenseful moments, family shenanigans and witty banter to lighten things up, heartfelt emotions, and steamy romance. As always, Hynes’s writing, way with words, and brilliant dialogue, plot, and world-building are incredible, as are the depth of the characters, their growth and development. Brandy Hynes, thank you for another exceptional story and wild ride.
🎧📚🎧 For the fabulous audiobook listen, Brandy Hynes excels at casting, always choosing the perfect narrators to voice her characters and bring them to life. The wonderfully talented Angelina Rocca and Jason Clarke were amazing in their roles, embodying their characters completely. Clarke nailed it as Axel, grasping every aspect of his personality, from his Papa Axe persona, the alpha, one in charge and in control, to his passionate feelings. Rocca was just as amazing as Zara in showcasing her personality and was a natural in her role, fierce, confident, and passionate with her feelings too. Both were fantastic performing the roles of the side and secondary characters, giving each their own distinct voice, making it easy to follow along. They are entertaining storytellers, and their engaging performance not only takes the already brilliant story to another level, but it keeps you hooked, too.
May 8, 2026
This was a masterpiece, a work of art, pure freaking perfection!
Brandy always has a way of writing the most beautifully, poetic books and they suck you in from the very beginning. I honestly can't even come up with the right words to do this review justice. I have been a huge fan of the Noire family since I started my Brandy Hynes journey. As much as I loved the KORT series, I think having Rolling 75 as my first Brandy book caused a special bond between me and the Noire family. Maddox has been my main man since book 1 and while he still has the top spot because of his carefree nature and his funny run liners, Papa Axe definitely gave him a freaking run for his money.
Papa Axe was a man I did not know that I needed and Zara the FMC was a true badass! She is a trained assassin who has infiltrated La Lune Noire and her mark is Papa Axe himself. The tension between these two and the way Axel was trying to get himself together and it was a losing battle for Zara was so fun to watch unfold. The banter between these two was amazing and of course I always love the group chats of the Noire clan. They are also keeping me laughing. That is one of the things I love about these characters. They are these badass kings of the criminal underground, but they still have this lightheartedness about them that just sucks you in!
The spice in this book was amazing in every aspect. It was never to much and the build up and progress was just right for the storyline. There were definitely multiple chapters that had my jaw on the floor drooling and I was so here for it!
The other thing that I loved about this book was getting more of the father figure of Papa Axe to his siblings. The bond that they have is truly unmatched and watching them open up and take care of each other especially Jax to Axel just warmed my heart so much!
This book, like I said was pure perfection from start to finish! This may be Brandy's best work to date! And that's saying something because all of her books are beautifully written and have are their own works of art in themselves. But there is just something about this book! It is definitely my favorite of hers. I am so excited to see which Noire sibling is next. I am thinking it will be Cash and I am really excited for his book because he had me laughing so much in this one!
I am really excited to do a re-read of this book via audio. All the clips Brandy has teased of Jason Clark as Axel and Angelina Rocca as Zara have had me in a puddle on the floor so I know it is going to be chef's kiss! All of Brandy's books on audio are amazing. They are duet narration which is the top tier way to do an audiobook!
Thank you Brandy for the honor and privilege to ARC read this truly amazing book early in exchange for my honest thoughts and review! This series is my Roman Empire and your books are truly one of a kind.
Read if you like:
-Dark Romantic Suspense
-Age Gap
-Secret Society
-Assassin FMC
-King of the Criminal Underworld
-Billionaire Romance
-Found Family
-1920's Great Gatsby vibes
Brandy always has a way of writing the most beautifully, poetic books and they suck you in from the very beginning. I honestly can't even come up with the right words to do this review justice. I have been a huge fan of the Noire family since I started my Brandy Hynes journey. As much as I loved the KORT series, I think having Rolling 75 as my first Brandy book caused a special bond between me and the Noire family. Maddox has been my main man since book 1 and while he still has the top spot because of his carefree nature and his funny run liners, Papa Axe definitely gave him a freaking run for his money.
Papa Axe was a man I did not know that I needed and Zara the FMC was a true badass! She is a trained assassin who has infiltrated La Lune Noire and her mark is Papa Axe himself. The tension between these two and the way Axel was trying to get himself together and it was a losing battle for Zara was so fun to watch unfold. The banter between these two was amazing and of course I always love the group chats of the Noire clan. They are also keeping me laughing. That is one of the things I love about these characters. They are these badass kings of the criminal underground, but they still have this lightheartedness about them that just sucks you in!
The spice in this book was amazing in every aspect. It was never to much and the build up and progress was just right for the storyline. There were definitely multiple chapters that had my jaw on the floor drooling and I was so here for it!
The other thing that I loved about this book was getting more of the father figure of Papa Axe to his siblings. The bond that they have is truly unmatched and watching them open up and take care of each other especially Jax to Axel just warmed my heart so much!
This book, like I said was pure perfection from start to finish! This may be Brandy's best work to date! And that's saying something because all of her books are beautifully written and have are their own works of art in themselves. But there is just something about this book! It is definitely my favorite of hers. I am so excited to see which Noire sibling is next. I am thinking it will be Cash and I am really excited for his book because he had me laughing so much in this one!
I am really excited to do a re-read of this book via audio. All the clips Brandy has teased of Jason Clark as Axel and Angelina Rocca as Zara have had me in a puddle on the floor so I know it is going to be chef's kiss! All of Brandy's books on audio are amazing. They are duet narration which is the top tier way to do an audiobook!
Thank you Brandy for the honor and privilege to ARC read this truly amazing book early in exchange for my honest thoughts and review! This series is my Roman Empire and your books are truly one of a kind.
Read if you like:
-Dark Romantic Suspense
-Age Gap
-Secret Society
-Assassin FMC
-King of the Criminal Underworld
-Billionaire Romance
-Found Family
-1920's Great Gatsby vibes
Displaying 1 - 30 of 208 reviews