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Noire Brothers #3
Roulette Rising: The Noire Brothers Series, Book 3
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.
Audible Audio
Published May 8, 2026
About the author
Brandy Hynes
8 books516 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 256 reviews
June 12, 2026
4 ⭐🎧
Turns out all it takes to completely derail my reading plans is one emotionally repressed crime lord in glasses who quotes classic literature, hoards cherries and expresses affection exclusively through acts of service.
I knew I was in trouble embarrassingly early.
An assassin heroine? A crime lord hero? Duet narration by Jason Clarke and Angelina Rocca? It felt like the universe had curated a reading experience specifically designed to destroy my productivity and my standards.
And destroy them it did.
This reminded me exactly why I fell in love with the KORT world in the first place. The romance is built on trust instead of endless betrayal, the found family dynamic is genuinely warm and the emotional intimacy somehow manages to be just as compelling as the spice. At the same time, I also spent a decent portion of this book muttering, "Okay... but can we move it along now?"
What Worked For Me
(aka: why I happily ignored reality)
Axel Noire completely owned this book for me.
He's introduced as this untouchable king of the underworld but every chapter peels back another layer until you discover he's essentially an emotionally repressed eldest son whose first instinct is to take care of everyone around him. He notices everything, remembers everything, quietly fixes problems before anyone else sees them and somehow manages to make reading classic literature together feel ridiculously romantic.
The recurring details made their relationship feel incredibly personal. The cherries, the highlighted book passages, the libraries, the glasses (yes, I'm mentioning the glasses again), the little routines and literary flirting gave the romance a distinct identity. By the end, I wasn't invested because they had explosive chemistry - I was invested because I genuinely believed these two would spend the next fifty years reading to each other and arguing over misattributed Virginia Woolf quotes.
The relationship itself develops through small moments rather than grand gestures. Watching movies, falling asleep together, laughing over terrible character voices, leaving notes behind for each other... those scenes worked on me just as much as the declarations of love or the spice. It made the relationship feel lived in instead of simply passionate.
And speaking of the spice...let's just say Axel's aftercare deserves its own appreciation post. The man approaches intimacy with the exact same caretaker energy he brings to every other aspect of his life which somehow made him even more attractive than the organised crime empire ever could.
The audiobook deserves a massive shout-out as well. Jason Clarke and Angelina Rocca absolutely elevated this story. Their performances brought warmth, humour and vulnerability to every scene and carried me effortlessly through slower sections that I suspect would have felt much longer in print. I'm a duet girl through and through and this is exactly why.
Where It Lost Me
(aka: excuse my impatience)
The relationship crossed the finish line before the plot did
Around the 70% mark, I realised I wasn't waiting for Axel and Zara to get together anymore - I was waiting for the plot to catch up. They already felt like a married couple in every way that mattered. They'd confessed their feelings, built routines together, communicated through books and were acting like soulmates while the plot kept insisting there was still another obstacle to overcome.
It created this strange feeling where every romantic scene still made me smile but I also kept looking at my progress bar wondering why we were still circling the same conflict.
Too much thinking, not enough moving
Both Axel and Zara spend a lot of time inside their own heads. Sometimes those internal monologues are genuinely insightful and deepen their characters but they also become repetitive. By the final third, I completely understood Axel's fears, Zara's insecurities and why neither of them wanted to lose the other. Revisiting those same thoughts over and over slowed the momentum considerably.
Ironically, every time they were actually together, the book came alive again.
The mystery occasionally competed with the romance
I genuinely enjoyed learning more about KORT and the wider criminal world and this book reminded me why I liked this world so much in the first place. But there were definitely moments where I caught myself thinking, "Yes, yes...international crime conspiracies...now can we get back to the mafia man leaving Dickens quotes on his wife's pillow?"
That's probably the highest compliment I can give the romance.
Final Thoughts
This is one of those books where I'll remember the characters far longer than the plot.
Months from now, I'm going to remember Axel wearing glasses. I'm going to remember the cherries, the books, the quiet domestic moments, the literary flirting, the caretaker energy and the way he loved Zara with complete devotion long before he admitted it to himself.
Could this book have been tighter? Absolutely. I genuinely think trimming some of the repetitive internal monologues and streamlining the final third would have made this an even stronger read.
But every time I started getting impatient, Jason Clarke would lower his voice another octave, Angelina Rocca would bring Zara's vulnerability to life and Axel would say something so absurdly romantic that I'd immediately forgive him.
Final Verdict
Rounded up to 4 ⭐️ because the duet narration carried and Axel Noire deserves to be studied.
The book took the scenic route. I still enjoyed the view.
Anyway, if evil why glasses?
Tropes and Vibes:
• Assassin × Crime Lord
• Marriage of Convenience (late-game payoff)
• MMC with glasses (critical information)
• Literary flirting & book quotes
• Cherry obsession
• King & Queen energy
• Acts of service as a love language
• Emotionally repressed eldest son
• Possessive but deeply caring MMC
• High spice + elite aftercare
• Found family
• Dom/sub dynamics
• Public claiming / Exhibitionist energy
• Duet narration supremacy
☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆
Pre-read: Apparently today's personality is ✨organised crime✨
The heroine is an assassin 🔪 The hero runs a criminal empire ♠️ The audiobook is duet narrated by Jason Clarke and Angelina Rocca 🎧
This feels like an excellent way to ignore reality.
Turns out all it takes to completely derail my reading plans is one emotionally repressed crime lord in glasses who quotes classic literature, hoards cherries and expresses affection exclusively through acts of service.
I knew I was in trouble embarrassingly early.
An assassin heroine? A crime lord hero? Duet narration by Jason Clarke and Angelina Rocca? It felt like the universe had curated a reading experience specifically designed to destroy my productivity and my standards.
And destroy them it did.
This reminded me exactly why I fell in love with the KORT world in the first place. The romance is built on trust instead of endless betrayal, the found family dynamic is genuinely warm and the emotional intimacy somehow manages to be just as compelling as the spice. At the same time, I also spent a decent portion of this book muttering, "Okay... but can we move it along now?"
What Worked For Me
(aka: why I happily ignored reality)
Axel Noire completely owned this book for me.
He's introduced as this untouchable king of the underworld but every chapter peels back another layer until you discover he's essentially an emotionally repressed eldest son whose first instinct is to take care of everyone around him. He notices everything, remembers everything, quietly fixes problems before anyone else sees them and somehow manages to make reading classic literature together feel ridiculously romantic.
The recurring details made their relationship feel incredibly personal. The cherries, the highlighted book passages, the libraries, the glasses (yes, I'm mentioning the glasses again), the little routines and literary flirting gave the romance a distinct identity. By the end, I wasn't invested because they had explosive chemistry - I was invested because I genuinely believed these two would spend the next fifty years reading to each other and arguing over misattributed Virginia Woolf quotes.
The relationship itself develops through small moments rather than grand gestures. Watching movies, falling asleep together, laughing over terrible character voices, leaving notes behind for each other... those scenes worked on me just as much as the declarations of love or the spice. It made the relationship feel lived in instead of simply passionate.
And speaking of the spice...let's just say Axel's aftercare deserves its own appreciation post. The man approaches intimacy with the exact same caretaker energy he brings to every other aspect of his life which somehow made him even more attractive than the organised crime empire ever could.
The audiobook deserves a massive shout-out as well. Jason Clarke and Angelina Rocca absolutely elevated this story. Their performances brought warmth, humour and vulnerability to every scene and carried me effortlessly through slower sections that I suspect would have felt much longer in print. I'm a duet girl through and through and this is exactly why.
Where It Lost Me
(aka: excuse my impatience)
The relationship crossed the finish line before the plot did
Around the 70% mark, I realised I wasn't waiting for Axel and Zara to get together anymore - I was waiting for the plot to catch up. They already felt like a married couple in every way that mattered. They'd confessed their feelings, built routines together, communicated through books and were acting like soulmates while the plot kept insisting there was still another obstacle to overcome.
It created this strange feeling where every romantic scene still made me smile but I also kept looking at my progress bar wondering why we were still circling the same conflict.
Too much thinking, not enough moving
Both Axel and Zara spend a lot of time inside their own heads. Sometimes those internal monologues are genuinely insightful and deepen their characters but they also become repetitive. By the final third, I completely understood Axel's fears, Zara's insecurities and why neither of them wanted to lose the other. Revisiting those same thoughts over and over slowed the momentum considerably.
Ironically, every time they were actually together, the book came alive again.
The mystery occasionally competed with the romance
I genuinely enjoyed learning more about KORT and the wider criminal world and this book reminded me why I liked this world so much in the first place. But there were definitely moments where I caught myself thinking, "Yes, yes...international crime conspiracies...now can we get back to the mafia man leaving Dickens quotes on his wife's pillow?"
That's probably the highest compliment I can give the romance.
Final Thoughts
This is one of those books where I'll remember the characters far longer than the plot.
Months from now, I'm going to remember Axel wearing glasses. I'm going to remember the cherries, the books, the quiet domestic moments, the literary flirting, the caretaker energy and the way he loved Zara with complete devotion long before he admitted it to himself.
Could this book have been tighter? Absolutely. I genuinely think trimming some of the repetitive internal monologues and streamlining the final third would have made this an even stronger read.
But every time I started getting impatient, Jason Clarke would lower his voice another octave, Angelina Rocca would bring Zara's vulnerability to life and Axel would say something so absurdly romantic that I'd immediately forgive him.
Final Verdict
Rounded up to 4 ⭐️ because the duet narration carried and Axel Noire deserves to be studied.
The book took the scenic route. I still enjoyed the view.
Anyway, if evil why glasses?
Tropes and Vibes:
• Assassin × Crime Lord
• Marriage of Convenience (late-game payoff)
• MMC with glasses (critical information)
• Literary flirting & book quotes
• Cherry obsession
• King & Queen energy
• Acts of service as a love language
• Emotionally repressed eldest son
• Possessive but deeply caring MMC
• High spice + elite aftercare
• Found family
• Dom/sub dynamics
• Public claiming / Exhibitionist energy
• Duet narration supremacy
☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆
Pre-read: Apparently today's personality is ✨organised crime✨
The heroine is an assassin 🔪 The hero runs a criminal empire ♠️ The audiobook is duet narrated by Jason Clarke and Angelina Rocca 🎧
This feels like an excellent way to ignore reality.
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 28, 2026
My Rating: ❤️❤️❤️❤️.75
Spice Meter: ❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥
Narration: ❤️❤️❤️❤️
In short: Enjoyable, quick read that I flew through. Brandy does a great job of making her characters seem like real people.
More thoughts: Brandy has such a unique writing style. I think I could pick out one of her books without ever seeing her name on it. I LOVED this one! It was so exceptionally well done. I loved the chemistry, the mystery, the characters, their backstory, and how it all came together in one heck of an intoxicating read. I devoured this one. It was SOOOO good. I had really high expectations for this one, and Brandy delivered. Dark, decadent, and everything a book like this book should be. I can't wait to see what comes next. I received a review listening copy for free and am leaving this review voluntarily. Thanks to the author and Valentine PR.
Romantic Tropes
-dark romance
-morally gray
-close/forced proximity
-mafia adjacent
- assassins
You can also find me on Insta @mylastromancenovel.
Spice Meter: ❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥
Narration: ❤️❤️❤️❤️
In short: Enjoyable, quick read that I flew through. Brandy does a great job of making her characters seem like real people.
More thoughts: Brandy has such a unique writing style. I think I could pick out one of her books without ever seeing her name on it. I LOVED this one! It was so exceptionally well done. I loved the chemistry, the mystery, the characters, their backstory, and how it all came together in one heck of an intoxicating read. I devoured this one. It was SOOOO good. I had really high expectations for this one, and Brandy delivered. Dark, decadent, and everything a book like this book should be. I can't wait to see what comes next. I received a review listening copy for free and am leaving this review voluntarily. Thanks to the author and Valentine PR.
Romantic Tropes
-dark romance
-morally gray
-close/forced proximity
-mafia adjacent
- assassins
You can also find me on Insta @mylastromancenovel.
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 16, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
🎙️🎙️🎙️🎙️🎙️
Duet narration by Jason Clarke and Angelina Rocca
Tropes:
🖤Secret Society
🖤Dark Romance
🖤Obsession
🖤Dangerous Attraction
🖤Possessive MMC
🖤High Tension
🖤Found Family
🖤Pierced MMC
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.
🎰AUDIOBOOK REVIEW🎰
Jason Clarke has such an excellent range with his voice, I could listen to him talk all day long and that growl of his…🫠 yum! I have listened to a couple of audiobooks narrated by Angelina Rocca, and I absolutely love her voice, it is so unique and perfect for the role of our FMC. I have listened to a ton of books narrated by Jason Clarke. I love his low purr, his voice commands attention. The scenes when he was giving commands to Zara, I wanted to say “Yes, Sir” 😏🤤 Absolutely without a doubt best duet performance of 2026! Trust me, you want this book on your TBR.
I would like to thank Brandy Hynes for writing such a fabulous book and Valentine PR for getting it into my hands early. This is my honest review in exchange for the ALC.
🌶️🌶️🌶️
🎙️🎙️🎙️🎙️🎙️
Duet narration by Jason Clarke and Angelina Rocca
Tropes:
🖤Secret Society
🖤Dark Romance
🖤Obsession
🖤Dangerous Attraction
🖤Possessive MMC
🖤High Tension
🖤Found Family
🖤Pierced MMC
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.
🎰AUDIOBOOK REVIEW🎰
Jason Clarke has such an excellent range with his voice, I could listen to him talk all day long and that growl of his…🫠 yum! I have listened to a couple of audiobooks narrated by Angelina Rocca, and I absolutely love her voice, it is so unique and perfect for the role of our FMC. I have listened to a ton of books narrated by Jason Clarke. I love his low purr, his voice commands attention. The scenes when he was giving commands to Zara, I wanted to say “Yes, Sir” 😏🤤 Absolutely without a doubt best duet performance of 2026! Trust me, you want this book on your TBR.
I would like to thank Brandy Hynes for writing such a fabulous book and Valentine PR for getting it into my hands early. This is my honest review in exchange for the ALC.
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 29, 2026
I have enjoyed the other books in this series so much, but this one was harder for me to get into. What really caught my attention were all the spicy scenes, because, omg. *chefs kiss*. I think those are what really kept me going while reading this one lol. I was fun and addictive, and over all a great book in the series with tying everything together and still letting us see characters from the other books. I loved KORT, but the Noire Brothers have my heart.
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 27, 2026
4.25⭐️ for the audiobook with duet narration. Narrators were excellent and I enjoyed the story.
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 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.
June 5, 2026
2.75⭐️
Sigh. A very big sigh.
This is easily my least favourite book from this author so far, and that is saying something considering I have read all of the KORT books and the Noire series. I’ve had books that I haven’t liked but I was massively disappointed in this one the most.
My biggest issue is the length. At 540 pages, this book felt far longer than it needed to be. I have thought some of the previous KORT books dragged at times, but this is the longest book she has written in either series and I genuinely do not understand why. The first half of the book felt like an endless string of conversations. Characters talked and talked and talked, but very little actually seemed to happen.
I was also under the impression that we were moving away from the KORT storylines, so it was frustrating to find ourselves pulled back into them again. It feels like we spent an entire series dealing with KORT, I was hoping this tied more into the Noire stuff like the Maddox and Ryker books. I wanted something fresh and instead it felt like more of the same.
Another issue I continue to have with this author’s writing is how overly descriptive it can be. Certain details are repeated so often that they lose all impact. Yes, the FMC smells like cherry blossoms. Yes, her hair is mahogany coloured. I understood that the first few times. By the twentieth reminder, it started to feel excessive. A tighter edit would have done wonders for this book.
As for the characters, I unfortunately found both Axel and Zara difficult to connect with. Neither of them held my interest for very long and I never became invested in their relationship. The standout character for me was Cash. Every time he appeared on the page, the story immediately became more engaging. At this point, I am far more interested in reading his book than I was in reading this one.
The frustrating part is that there is a good book buried somewhere in here. If this had been trimmed down by around 100 to 150 pages, the pacing would have been much stronger. The first two books in the Noire series were shorter, tighter, and far more engaging because of it.
And yet, despite all of my complaints, I know I will probably keep reading this author’s books. At this point it feels less like a reader and author relationship and more like an ongoing feud. She keeps testing my patience, and I keep coming back anyway.
Again…sigh.
Sigh. A very big sigh.
This is easily my least favourite book from this author so far, and that is saying something considering I have read all of the KORT books and the Noire series. I’ve had books that I haven’t liked but I was massively disappointed in this one the most.
My biggest issue is the length. At 540 pages, this book felt far longer than it needed to be. I have thought some of the previous KORT books dragged at times, but this is the longest book she has written in either series and I genuinely do not understand why. The first half of the book felt like an endless string of conversations. Characters talked and talked and talked, but very little actually seemed to happen.
I was also under the impression that we were moving away from the KORT storylines, so it was frustrating to find ourselves pulled back into them again. It feels like we spent an entire series dealing with KORT, I was hoping this tied more into the Noire stuff like the Maddox and Ryker books. I wanted something fresh and instead it felt like more of the same.
Another issue I continue to have with this author’s writing is how overly descriptive it can be. Certain details are repeated so often that they lose all impact. Yes, the FMC smells like cherry blossoms. Yes, her hair is mahogany coloured. I understood that the first few times. By the twentieth reminder, it started to feel excessive. A tighter edit would have done wonders for this book.
As for the characters, I unfortunately found both Axel and Zara difficult to connect with. Neither of them held my interest for very long and I never became invested in their relationship. The standout character for me was Cash. Every time he appeared on the page, the story immediately became more engaging. At this point, I am far more interested in reading his book than I was in reading this one.
The frustrating part is that there is a good book buried somewhere in here. If this had been trimmed down by around 100 to 150 pages, the pacing would have been much stronger. The first two books in the Noire series were shorter, tighter, and far more engaging because of it.
And yet, despite all of my complaints, I know I will probably keep reading this author’s books. At this point it feels less like a reader and author relationship and more like an ongoing feud. She keeps testing my patience, and I keep coming back anyway.
Again…sigh.
May 30, 2026
Papa Axe!!! Who knew I needed this protective, self-sacrificing patriarch in my life? I've read everything Brandy has written, and somehow every new release becomes my new favorite. It all started with her KORT series, and then the Noire Brothers series completely stole my heart. And now? Roulette Rising has officially joined the ranks of my all-time favorites. Axel and Zara are officially my new favorite couple but I say this every time! I do think it will be hard to top them but I know Brandy will.
One of the things I love most about Brandy's writing is her ability to completely immerse readers in her stories. Her books are beautifully written, emotionally charged, and packed with strong, badass heroines, morally gray heroes, heart racing spice, pulse pounding chemistry, and just enough suspense to keep you guessing until the very end. All of her stories have this interconnected web that feeds into each other's story and it's truly remarkable.
Axel "Papa Axe" Noire is the patriarch of the Noire family the man who always puts everyone else's needs above his own. It's only fitting that while trying to protect his family, he encounters the woman who will ultimately change his life forever. The catch? She's a threat to everything he's worked to protect.
Zara arrives at La Lune Noire as an assassin with one mission: eliminate Axel Noire. A romance between the king of the criminal underworld and the woman sent to kill him? Sign me all the way up.
What makes Axel and Zara so compelling is how perfectly matched they are. Zara may have initially planned to bring Axel to his knees with a gun, but their chemistry, banter, and tension quickly prove far more powerful than any weapon. Their connection practically crackles off the page.
Both characters live in shades of gray and possess fierce protective instincts toward the people they love. Watching Axel—a man who spends his life carrying the weight of everyone else's burdens finally find someone capable of protecting and caring for him in return was truly rewarding. He deserves to be loved just as fiercely as he loves others, and Zara is exactly the woman to give him that.
🎧 Audiobook Review: Jason Clarke & Angelina Rocca
Brandy always chooses the most phenomenal narrators. I knew that Jason Clarke and Angelina Rocca would deliver in every way and still they exceeded my expectations. Jason's deep, growly voice embodies Papa Ax perfectly. He captured every protective, possessive, commanding aspect of Papa Axe's character. Whereas, Angelina's raspy, throaty voice was his perfect match. Angelina captured Zara's strength, confidence, vulnerability, and fire perfectly, making an already amazing character even more memorable.
One of the things I love most about Brandy's writing is her ability to completely immerse readers in her stories. Her books are beautifully written, emotionally charged, and packed with strong, badass heroines, morally gray heroes, heart racing spice, pulse pounding chemistry, and just enough suspense to keep you guessing until the very end. All of her stories have this interconnected web that feeds into each other's story and it's truly remarkable.
Axel "Papa Axe" Noire is the patriarch of the Noire family the man who always puts everyone else's needs above his own. It's only fitting that while trying to protect his family, he encounters the woman who will ultimately change his life forever. The catch? She's a threat to everything he's worked to protect.
Zara arrives at La Lune Noire as an assassin with one mission: eliminate Axel Noire. A romance between the king of the criminal underworld and the woman sent to kill him? Sign me all the way up.
What makes Axel and Zara so compelling is how perfectly matched they are. Zara may have initially planned to bring Axel to his knees with a gun, but their chemistry, banter, and tension quickly prove far more powerful than any weapon. Their connection practically crackles off the page.
Both characters live in shades of gray and possess fierce protective instincts toward the people they love. Watching Axel—a man who spends his life carrying the weight of everyone else's burdens finally find someone capable of protecting and caring for him in return was truly rewarding. He deserves to be loved just as fiercely as he loves others, and Zara is exactly the woman to give him that.
🎧 Audiobook Review: Jason Clarke & Angelina Rocca
Brandy always chooses the most phenomenal narrators. I knew that Jason Clarke and Angelina Rocca would deliver in every way and still they exceeded my expectations. Jason's deep, growly voice embodies Papa Ax perfectly. He captured every protective, possessive, commanding aspect of Papa Axe's character. Whereas, Angelina's raspy, throaty voice was his perfect match. Angelina captured Zara's strength, confidence, vulnerability, and fire perfectly, making an already amazing character even more memorable.
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 25, 2026
I am such a huge fan of the KORT & The Noire Brothers Series and was counting down the days until Axel’s story. The king of the underworld and an assassin together!??? Is there a better pairing??? I was on the edge of my seat this entire book - and also laughing and blushing and clutching my pearls a few times 😉
Papa Axe has met his match - Zara is such a badass and so damn smart and witty. The tension between them is off the charts!!! Yes he is brooding and takes charge and carries the weight of the world on his shoulders but he will also burn the world to the ground for anyone he loves. Uh whistle anyone???
“The devil can only pose as a gentleman for so long.”
They also share this connection of a love of literature and I love the quotes they pass back and forth…but they also have a connection from the past that’s dark and emotional and will have you questioning who can you really trust??
I loved the sense of found family and how the Noire’s immediately accepted Zara just as she was - ok yes, her Floor is Lava game skills certainly didn’t hurt 😉
The family chat continues to get funnier and funnier and it’s so much fun to read. You can absolutely read this as a standalone but I highly recommend the entire series!
✨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
🍒Action/Suspense
🖤Dom/sub
🍒Touch her or him & 💀
🍆Pierced MMC
Papa Axe has met his match - Zara is such a badass and so damn smart and witty. The tension between them is off the charts!!! Yes he is brooding and takes charge and carries the weight of the world on his shoulders but he will also burn the world to the ground for anyone he loves. Uh whistle anyone???
“The devil can only pose as a gentleman for so long.”
They also share this connection of a love of literature and I love the quotes they pass back and forth…but they also have a connection from the past that’s dark and emotional and will have you questioning who can you really trust??
I loved the sense of found family and how the Noire’s immediately accepted Zara just as she was - ok yes, her Floor is Lava game skills certainly didn’t hurt 😉
The family chat continues to get funnier and funnier and it’s so much fun to read. You can absolutely read this as a standalone but I highly recommend the entire series!
✨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
🍒Action/Suspense
🖤Dom/sub
🍒Touch her or him & 💀
🍆Pierced MMC
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.
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