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The Araneae Brothers Duet #1
His Last Will
I vow to make your life a living hell.
In his last will and testament, he signed me over to him.
Now I’m contracted to marry my dead boyfriend’s stepbrother. The new heir of The Araneae Order.
The man determined to ruin me - dismantle me, piece by piece - is now my fiancé.
A bastard claimed only for the blood running through his veins.
Aiden. Reaper for The Order.
Known for stalking his prey from the shadows.
Injecting them with his venom. Playing with his victims. Reveling when they break.
A predator hellbent on seeking his revenge.
Whose sole focus is now on me.
Joining him in the shadows might be the only way I survive.
Til death do us part.
The Araneae Brothers Book One
MMF
Dark Romance
Marriage Contract
Enemies to Lovers
Stepbrothers
Secret Society
Hurt/Comfort
Hockey
His Last Will is the first book in the Araneae Brothers Duet. Book one will end with a mild cliffhanger.
In his last will and testament, he signed me over to him.
Now I’m contracted to marry my dead boyfriend’s stepbrother. The new heir of The Araneae Order.
The man determined to ruin me - dismantle me, piece by piece - is now my fiancé.
A bastard claimed only for the blood running through his veins.
Aiden. Reaper for The Order.
Known for stalking his prey from the shadows.
Injecting them with his venom. Playing with his victims. Reveling when they break.
A predator hellbent on seeking his revenge.
Whose sole focus is now on me.
Joining him in the shadows might be the only way I survive.
Til death do us part.
The Araneae Brothers Book One
MMF
Dark Romance
Marriage Contract
Enemies to Lovers
Stepbrothers
Secret Society
Hurt/Comfort
Hockey
His Last Will is the first book in the Araneae Brothers Duet. Book one will end with a mild cliffhanger.
- GenresDark Romance
258 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 16, 2026
About the author
Alex Evans
2 books12 followersAlex Evans is your own voice polyamorous author who writes dark romances that are drenched in blood and sarcasm. She daydreams of possessive characters and their happily ever afters.
Alex was born and raised in Central Ohio. She has since relocated to a warmer climate and lives with her husband in Charlotte, NC. Her love of romance began at a young age when she would steal her mom's Harlequin novels. Thanks, Mom!
When she's not writing, you'll find her researching sharp weapons, testing new recipes, and mainlining caffeine.
Alex was born and raised in Central Ohio. She has since relocated to a warmer climate and lives with her husband in Charlotte, NC. Her love of romance began at a young age when she would steal her mom's Harlequin novels. Thanks, Mom!
When she's not writing, you'll find her researching sharp weapons, testing new recipes, and mainlining caffeine.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 85 reviews
September 17, 2026
4.5🌟 | 4🌶️
There are books you pick up with a vague idea of what you’re getting into, and then there are books that completely hijack your brain.
This pulled me in emotionally so quickly, especially with Ari’s grief, and I could genuinely feel how much she was hurting. The darker atmosphere, mystery, and constant sense that something bigger was happening kept me turning pages. And honestly, it was an absolute honour to read this author’s debut because how is this a first book?
Ari and Aiden were such a fascinating mess in the best way. Ari is fierce, revenge-driven, and more than capable of standing her ground, while Aiden is grumpy, possessive, violent, and completely gone for her. Their tension was SO good, and I loved watching their relationship shift as they slowly started seeing each other differently. The complicated connection involving Brodie added another emotional layer that kept me invested, and Bosco the tarantula? I was not expecting to become this attached to a spider, but that little menace absolutely stole every scene.
The secrets, multiple POVs, twists, and glimpses into The Order kept me constantly wondering what was actually going on. Every time I thought I had something figured out, another piece fell into place, and that ending had me staring at the page like, excuse me??
This was such an addictive, dark, emotional debut with characters I’m already ridiculously attached to, and I’m very ready for book 2!
~~~~
A sincere thank you to Alex Evans and The Author Agency for the ARC! 🥰📚
I’m so grateful for the early read. As always, all thoughts and opinions are completely my own. ✨
There are books you pick up with a vague idea of what you’re getting into, and then there are books that completely hijack your brain.
This pulled me in emotionally so quickly, especially with Ari’s grief, and I could genuinely feel how much she was hurting. The darker atmosphere, mystery, and constant sense that something bigger was happening kept me turning pages. And honestly, it was an absolute honour to read this author’s debut because how is this a first book?
Ari and Aiden were such a fascinating mess in the best way. Ari is fierce, revenge-driven, and more than capable of standing her ground, while Aiden is grumpy, possessive, violent, and completely gone for her. Their tension was SO good, and I loved watching their relationship shift as they slowly started seeing each other differently. The complicated connection involving Brodie added another emotional layer that kept me invested, and Bosco the tarantula? I was not expecting to become this attached to a spider, but that little menace absolutely stole every scene.
The secrets, multiple POVs, twists, and glimpses into The Order kept me constantly wondering what was actually going on. Every time I thought I had something figured out, another piece fell into place, and that ending had me staring at the page like, excuse me??
This was such an addictive, dark, emotional debut with characters I’m already ridiculously attached to, and I’m very ready for book 2!
~~~~
A sincere thank you to Alex Evans and The Author Agency for the ARC! 🥰📚
I’m so grateful for the early read. As always, all thoughts and opinions are completely my own. ✨
September 16, 2026
Aiden. Brodie. Ari.
Going into this book I had no idea what to expect. Reading the tropes I knew I would be hooked. Dark romance! MMF! Arranged marriage! I knew I was in for a treat.
Let’s talk characters! I loved Ari. The girl is a BA and doesn’t take anything from anyone. Her pain was my pain and she made me feel it!! The way she interacts with both Brodie and Aiden was hot and sassy! Aiden. Mr. Morgue. Mr. Heir. Owner of Bosco. At first I wanted to hate him. He made it so easy but then bam! fell in love with him while he fell in love with Ari. The two of them together was fire! Brodie. The glue. The man. I need more from him. His love for Ari was so cute and possessive! I can’t wait for more from him and the three of them together. You will love all three of them!
Plot. This book had all the world building I loved while keeping me on the edge of my seat. The morgue. The order. The working through grief. Forced wedding planning I couldn’t put this book down. Does this book end in a cliffy? YES! So I’ll be counting down the days until I have it in my hands.
Go read this book now. You won’t regret it.
Going into this book I had no idea what to expect. Reading the tropes I knew I would be hooked. Dark romance! MMF! Arranged marriage! I knew I was in for a treat.
Let’s talk characters! I loved Ari. The girl is a BA and doesn’t take anything from anyone. Her pain was my pain and she made me feel it!! The way she interacts with both Brodie and Aiden was hot and sassy! Aiden. Mr. Morgue. Mr. Heir. Owner of Bosco. At first I wanted to hate him. He made it so easy but then bam! fell in love with him while he fell in love with Ari. The two of them together was fire! Brodie. The glue. The man. I need more from him. His love for Ari was so cute and possessive! I can’t wait for more from him and the three of them together. You will love all three of them!
Plot. This book had all the world building I loved while keeping me on the edge of my seat. The morgue. The order. The working through grief. Forced wedding planning I couldn’t put this book down. Does this book end in a cliffy? YES! So I’ll be counting down the days until I have it in my hands.
Go read this book now. You won’t regret it.
September 4, 2026
Ari, Aiden…+ Brodie👀
-mmf whychoose
-contracted marriage
-dark hockey romance
-enemies to lovers
-stepbrothers
-secret society
-hurt/comfort
-stalking
the concept of this whole story is so intriguing & going to lead to such a captivating story between these three characters!! the devotion between ari & brodie at the beginning & the commitment she & aiden have…& then the plot twist that we’re aware of lowkey the whole time?? it all just made for the perfect recipe to leave us wanting more!!
-mmf whychoose
-contracted marriage
-dark hockey romance
-enemies to lovers
-stepbrothers
-secret society
-hurt/comfort
-stalking
the concept of this whole story is so intriguing & going to lead to such a captivating story between these three characters!! the devotion between ari & brodie at the beginning & the commitment she & aiden have…& then the plot twist that we’re aware of lowkey the whole time?? it all just made for the perfect recipe to leave us wanting more!!
September 16, 2026
ARC Review of His Last Will Book 1 in The Araneae Brothers Duet by Alex Evans. This is Alex Evans debut book and it is amazing she definitely hit it out of the park I can’t wait for book 2 of this duet. This is a 5 star read for me. I was hooked from the first page I couldn’t put it down dying to know what would happen next. There definitely was never a dull moment going on in this book. It’s so deliciously dark. I loved all the tension, suspense, secrets, twists, dark humor and heat in this book. I loved the flashback scenes. This is a slow burn, spicy, stepbrothers, enemies to lovers, marriage contract, morally grey mmc's, possessive mmc's, hurt/comfort, secrets society, stalking, MMF why choose, dark hockey romance. This is Brodie, Aiden, and Ari's story. I love that this book is told from multiple POVs. I loved all the tension and angst between Ari and Aiden and I love the flashback scenes with Brodie. I love Ari she is so strong, smart, and badass. I love how she doesn’t back down to Aiden. Aiden is violent and unhinged and I am here for it. I love his horny pet spider Bosco lol. I love that he calls her little venom. Arianna Ashbourne aka Ari is 22 she grew up in the Araneae house when Brodie’s mom took her in and raised her. Ari and Brodie were best friends turned lovers, they were the loves of each others lives until he died. Brodie Araneae was the heir to The Order, a dangerous elite secret society that his family is in charge of. With Brodie gone Aiden Araneae is now the new future leader of The Order. Brodie and Aiden are stepbrothers but they clashed with each other. In Brodie’s last will he gives Ari to Aiden to marry. Ari can’t stand Aiden and is still grieving Brodie but her and Aiden need to be married before Initiation night for The Order. While Ari is forced to be around Aiden they end up bonding over torturing and killing people. Soon Ari’s hate turns to lust and some spicy times in the morgue and cemetery. Ari’s heart still belongs to Brodie even though he’s gone but she is finding she also loves Aiden. I loved all the twists. This book leaves off on a mild cliffhanger and I can’t wait to find out what happens next. I definitely recommend this book.
September 17, 2026
A Joyfully Jay review.
2.5 stars
I like dark books, but there has to be a cohesive plot holding it all together and His Last Will did not offer that for me. The majority of the first part of the book is told from Ari’s viewpoint. We see her as a teenager pining for Brodie and see them get together for the first time once she turns eighteen. There is no relationship seen or built between the two of them over the time they spend together and we only are told they are soulmates who are obsessed with each other. Then, Ari is on her own with unbearable consuming grief while being forced to plan her wedding to Aiden.
The Order is not well explained or developed for me and there are so many ideas of storylines added in. I felt Aiden’s role as The Reaper was just to add blood, gore, violence, and spiders, with no real storyline worked out for this morgue setting. Then, there are a couple of lines of Ari wanting to finish school and Aiden must be in school too, because in between torture and obsessing over Ari, he also plays college hockey and he is shown suiting up for a game and smoking a cigarette right before play time—sure.
The book is highlighted as being MMF, but if the only MMF scene is a dream; is that really MMF? Since this is the first book in the series, it may develop into that, as some of the chapters are from the POV of “Him” and it is so hilariously transparent who is narrating these chapters it lost any and all tension that may have been trying to build. If it was just the characters of Ari, Brodie, and Aiden, this might have been better for me, but it was messy with so many ideas not fully explored and it became a pass for me.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
2.5 stars
I like dark books, but there has to be a cohesive plot holding it all together and His Last Will did not offer that for me. The majority of the first part of the book is told from Ari’s viewpoint. We see her as a teenager pining for Brodie and see them get together for the first time once she turns eighteen. There is no relationship seen or built between the two of them over the time they spend together and we only are told they are soulmates who are obsessed with each other. Then, Ari is on her own with unbearable consuming grief while being forced to plan her wedding to Aiden.
The Order is not well explained or developed for me and there are so many ideas of storylines added in. I felt Aiden’s role as The Reaper was just to add blood, gore, violence, and spiders, with no real storyline worked out for this morgue setting. Then, there are a couple of lines of Ari wanting to finish school and Aiden must be in school too, because in between torture and obsessing over Ari, he also plays college hockey and he is shown suiting up for a game and smoking a cigarette right before play time—sure.
The book is highlighted as being MMF, but if the only MMF scene is a dream; is that really MMF? Since this is the first book in the series, it may develop into that, as some of the chapters are from the POV of “Him” and it is so hilariously transparent who is narrating these chapters it lost any and all tension that may have been trying to build. If it was just the characters of Ari, Brodie, and Aiden, this might have been better for me, but it was messy with so many ideas not fully explored and it became a pass for me.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
September 16, 2026
4.5 stars
***ARC Review***
This is my honest and voluntary review.
This is the first book in the Araneae Brothers Duet by Alex Evans. Evans is a captivating writer! I will absolutely read more of her work. This story drew me in from the prologue. Ari, Brodie, and Aiden are fascinating characters and the darker themes within the book are enticing. Ashton is a fabulous side character as well. Bosco is the MVP. Best tarantula ever. I love the world building and I was definitely intrigued by The Order. I love a good secret society. Voyeurism and exhibitionism permeate this book and I was 100% here for it. The spice in this book is 🥵. The possessive vibes are top tier in this story and the twists and turns keep you on your toes!
Characters give in to their baser instincts in terms of violence and desire. It works incredibly well in this world. Ari and Brodie are best friends who become something more. Brodie and Aiden are stepbrothers who have an interesting dynamic. There is a thread connecting Ari and Aiden as well. Sure there is a marriage contract, but their connection is complex and multifaceted.
There are things going on behind the scenes that I want to talk about, but won’t since I don’t want to spoil anything. Just know the suspense is delicious. The shadows and secrets are compelling. There are some unexpected moments that are just divine. This book ends on a cliffhanger, but things will conclude in the second book in the duet. I cannot wait for Their Venomous Ruin!
***ARC Review***
This is my honest and voluntary review.
This is the first book in the Araneae Brothers Duet by Alex Evans. Evans is a captivating writer! I will absolutely read more of her work. This story drew me in from the prologue. Ari, Brodie, and Aiden are fascinating characters and the darker themes within the book are enticing. Ashton is a fabulous side character as well. Bosco is the MVP. Best tarantula ever. I love the world building and I was definitely intrigued by The Order. I love a good secret society. Voyeurism and exhibitionism permeate this book and I was 100% here for it. The spice in this book is 🥵. The possessive vibes are top tier in this story and the twists and turns keep you on your toes!
Characters give in to their baser instincts in terms of violence and desire. It works incredibly well in this world. Ari and Brodie are best friends who become something more. Brodie and Aiden are stepbrothers who have an interesting dynamic. There is a thread connecting Ari and Aiden as well. Sure there is a marriage contract, but their connection is complex and multifaceted.
There are things going on behind the scenes that I want to talk about, but won’t since I don’t want to spoil anything. Just know the suspense is delicious. The shadows and secrets are compelling. There are some unexpected moments that are just divine. This book ends on a cliffhanger, but things will conclude in the second book in the duet. I cannot wait for Their Venomous Ruin!
September 5, 2026
His last will Alex Evan’s
Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Chilli 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
Tropes-
MMF
Contracted marriage
Stepbrothers
Secret society
Stalking
Enemies to lovers
Firstly, how is this Alex’s first book? WTF? Secondly, WHAT THE FUCK….
Chapter 4. I started crying. I felt Ari pain through the pages. I felt her hurt and sadness. Ari went through what some can only have nightmares of🥺
I want Bosco. He’s a sweet lil baby and I want him. NOW. Biting a man’s face the lil sweet boy🥺🥺
BRODIE BRODIE BRODIE. That letter.
I got 75% into this book and paused. I paused and thought I have 25% left as from what I’ve heard from Charli. There’s a lot to come. Holy moly!!!!
This had me in the biggest hold from the very first finding out about it about 4 hours ago. I was luckily enough to receive an ARC of this by Alex.
I will always always shout about this book.
RIGHT RIGHT. HOLD ON A FUCKING MINUTE.
WHAT WAS THAT. Firstly, I called it😉 secondly, wtf. Thirdly. WHAT THE HOLY FUCK. I’m in love. Obsessed and need MORE from these characters.
Aiden, he’s everything. The grumpy stabby MMC who’s just so deliciously HOT.
Ari, is the revenge thirsty FMC who’s also stabby.
What more could we want?
Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Chilli 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
Tropes-
MMF
Contracted marriage
Stepbrothers
Secret society
Stalking
Enemies to lovers
Firstly, how is this Alex’s first book? WTF? Secondly, WHAT THE FUCK….
Chapter 4. I started crying. I felt Ari pain through the pages. I felt her hurt and sadness. Ari went through what some can only have nightmares of🥺
I want Bosco. He’s a sweet lil baby and I want him. NOW. Biting a man’s face the lil sweet boy🥺🥺
BRODIE BRODIE BRODIE. That letter.
I got 75% into this book and paused. I paused and thought I have 25% left as from what I’ve heard from Charli. There’s a lot to come. Holy moly!!!!
This had me in the biggest hold from the very first finding out about it about 4 hours ago. I was luckily enough to receive an ARC of this by Alex.
I will always always shout about this book.
RIGHT RIGHT. HOLD ON A FUCKING MINUTE.
WHAT WAS THAT. Firstly, I called it😉 secondly, wtf. Thirdly. WHAT THE HOLY FUCK. I’m in love. Obsessed and need MORE from these characters.
Aiden, he’s everything. The grumpy stabby MMC who’s just so deliciously HOT.
Ari, is the revenge thirsty FMC who’s also stabby.
What more could we want?
September 5, 2026
THIS. WAS. INCREDIBLE.
I don’t wanna spoil anything for anyone so imma try and review spoiler free whilst trying to encourage all of you to read this immediately.
Ok, so firstly, emotional damage from the get go, like hi, first few chapters rip your heart out. Then we get into the enemies territory and we’re like “how the heck will they become lovers?” Read on.
Then we get into the forbidden smut (it feels forbidden, ok, I can’t explain why because I’ll ruin it) and although it’s like “ok, she wants to fight her feelings” then we just go straight into “HECK YES!” Full. Blown. One. Handed. Read. Smut. Grave smut, morgue smut, outside smut, inside smut, licky smut, fucky smut, thinking-of-other-people-smut.
We can’t stop there though, no. Then comes the side characters. Ashton, love him. Z, love him more. Gage, my babe, you didn’t deserve that. Anthony, you deserve more (take that as you will).
Then the twists? The secrets? I’m looking around asking “who is him?!”
I’m reading screaming “well who fucking done it then?!” And as if watching Law and Order, the ‘dun-dun’ sound at the last fucking sentence. I AM SCREAMING.
TLDR: Read. The. Fucking. Book.
⭐️ ♾️
🌶️ 4/5
I don’t wanna spoil anything for anyone so imma try and review spoiler free whilst trying to encourage all of you to read this immediately.
Ok, so firstly, emotional damage from the get go, like hi, first few chapters rip your heart out. Then we get into the enemies territory and we’re like “how the heck will they become lovers?” Read on.
Then we get into the forbidden smut (it feels forbidden, ok, I can’t explain why because I’ll ruin it) and although it’s like “ok, she wants to fight her feelings” then we just go straight into “HECK YES!” Full. Blown. One. Handed. Read. Smut. Grave smut, morgue smut, outside smut, inside smut, licky smut, fucky smut, thinking-of-other-people-smut.
We can’t stop there though, no. Then comes the side characters. Ashton, love him. Z, love him more. Gage, my babe, you didn’t deserve that. Anthony, you deserve more (take that as you will).
Then the twists? The secrets? I’m looking around asking “who is him?!”
I’m reading screaming “well who fucking done it then?!” And as if watching Law and Order, the ‘dun-dun’ sound at the last fucking sentence. I AM SCREAMING.
TLDR: Read. The. Fucking. Book.
⭐️ ♾️
🌶️ 4/5
September 7, 2026
✨May contain spoilers✨
I always do this to myself and read books before the next book comes out. Now, I’m going to be patient but eagerly going to be waiting for the next part.
No spoilers here just the plot in this book is insane. When I think that’s all is going to happen, something even bigger blows up. I know without a doubt that the next book in this book is going to be so epic.
I freaking love animal sidekicks. Bosco is the best tarantula ever! He’s classy and he’s just everywhere. Aiden has trained him well and goodness; the commentary we get with everything this tarantula does from being intimate with another spider to just popping up wherever Ari is.
This book is going to make you go through so much. Poor Ari and Aiden is just hurting but eventually, he would do anything for this girl. And well, Brodie… enough said. The last ten to fifteen percent is when the book gets down to the deep stuff. This is one of the books where you don’t want any spoilers but just, holy moly!
I need the next book like right freaking now!
I received a copy of this book and this is my honest review.
I always do this to myself and read books before the next book comes out. Now, I’m going to be patient but eagerly going to be waiting for the next part.
No spoilers here just the plot in this book is insane. When I think that’s all is going to happen, something even bigger blows up. I know without a doubt that the next book in this book is going to be so epic.
I freaking love animal sidekicks. Bosco is the best tarantula ever! He’s classy and he’s just everywhere. Aiden has trained him well and goodness; the commentary we get with everything this tarantula does from being intimate with another spider to just popping up wherever Ari is.
This book is going to make you go through so much. Poor Ari and Aiden is just hurting but eventually, he would do anything for this girl. And well, Brodie… enough said. The last ten to fifteen percent is when the book gets down to the deep stuff. This is one of the books where you don’t want any spoilers but just, holy moly!
I need the next book like right freaking now!
I received a copy of this book and this is my honest review.
September 1, 2026
✨🕷️🕸️💜🩷
ALEX EVANS debut WHO? it is as if she has been writing her whole life. The poetic telling of Aiden, Brodie and Ari story will have your heart melting into a puddle. But don’t even get me started on the star Bosco, just the most perfect pet you will ever meet. I hope he gets a happy ending.
BUT HOLY cliffhanger Alex. That was so very rude. But thank you for the graveyard. You won’t be disappointed with this one y’all. However you get your books go get this one.
Love bosco and Ari 4eva 🕸️✨💜🩷🕷️
ALEX EVANS debut WHO? it is as if she has been writing her whole life. The poetic telling of Aiden, Brodie and Ari story will have your heart melting into a puddle. But don’t even get me started on the star Bosco, just the most perfect pet you will ever meet. I hope he gets a happy ending.
BUT HOLY cliffhanger Alex. That was so very rude. But thank you for the graveyard. You won’t be disappointed with this one y’all. However you get your books go get this one.
Love bosco and Ari 4eva 🕸️✨💜🩷🕷️
Review of advance copy received from Author
A DEBUT THATS THIS DELICIOUS?? First of WOW, Alex this debut is spectacular!
I love me a why choose and then add in secrets, yearning, darkness and depravity and I am OBSESSED. Ari finds herself in throws of grief and comes to find out her best friend and lover leaves her in his will to his step brother. Aiden is diabolically unhinged and I love him, he always plays hockey so HOT and not to mention his humping, slightly perverted spider Bosco made me love spiders (I effing hate spiders). Brodie is the love of Ari’s life but there is also some lingering untouched chemistry between Aiden & Brodie, I NEED TO SEE THAT HAPPEN! Love me some sword crossing.
Ari is equally broken and unhinged, she really discovers herself more after Brodies death, Aiden helps he find a very unconventional outlet but damn these scenes were HOT. Morgue scene 😏 IYKYK
Ending? DIABOLICAL. What do you mean??!!! I need answers, I need to see more, I NEED TO KNOW MORE.
5 ⭐️
3.5 🌶️
🖤 MMF
🖤 Secret Society
🖤 Step Brothers
🖤 Enemies to lovers
🖤Contracted Marriage
🖤Dark Hockey
I love me a why choose and then add in secrets, yearning, darkness and depravity and I am OBSESSED. Ari finds herself in throws of grief and comes to find out her best friend and lover leaves her in his will to his step brother. Aiden is diabolically unhinged and I love him, he always plays hockey so HOT and not to mention his humping, slightly perverted spider Bosco made me love spiders (I effing hate spiders). Brodie is the love of Ari’s life but there is also some lingering untouched chemistry between Aiden & Brodie, I NEED TO SEE THAT HAPPEN! Love me some sword crossing.
Ari is equally broken and unhinged, she really discovers herself more after Brodies death, Aiden helps he find a very unconventional outlet but damn these scenes were HOT. Morgue scene 😏 IYKYK
Ending? DIABOLICAL. What do you mean??!!! I need answers, I need to see more, I NEED TO KNOW MORE.
5 ⭐️
3.5 🌶️
🖤 MMF
🖤 Secret Society
🖤 Step Brothers
🖤 Enemies to lovers
🖤Contracted Marriage
🖤Dark Hockey
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.5 stars 2.5 spice
If you are into dark romances, this is one you’ll definitely want to check out.
Emotional Damage
Family Drama
Tension
Killing to get aggression out
Spicy times
Adorable Side Character
This is the debut for Alex Evans and it was such a fun read. This book has a lot going on, but it keeps you on the edge of your seat as you just need to know more. It is book one so there’s quite a bit of background and world building that happens in the beginning. But even then there’s an air of mystery that you’re not sure what happened or why. And just when you think you might know what will happen next, something else happens and you can’t wait to see how it plays out.
This is a dark romance with twists and turns that will keep you on the edge of your seat. An adorably funny side character, Bosco the horny spider. I hate spiders in real life, but I loved Bosco so much. He was the perfect comic relief in an otherwise tense situation. I don’t want to say too much otherwise it’ll spoil it, but also that last line of the book - chef’s kiss
If you are into dark romances, this is one you’ll definitely want to check out.
Emotional Damage
Family Drama
Tension
Killing to get aggression out
Spicy times
Adorable Side Character
This is the debut for Alex Evans and it was such a fun read. This book has a lot going on, but it keeps you on the edge of your seat as you just need to know more. It is book one so there’s quite a bit of background and world building that happens in the beginning. But even then there’s an air of mystery that you’re not sure what happened or why. And just when you think you might know what will happen next, something else happens and you can’t wait to see how it plays out.
This is a dark romance with twists and turns that will keep you on the edge of your seat. An adorably funny side character, Bosco the horny spider. I hate spiders in real life, but I loved Bosco so much. He was the perfect comic relief in an otherwise tense situation. I don’t want to say too much otherwise it’ll spoil it, but also that last line of the book - chef’s kiss
September 5, 2026
Ari had been with the love of her life for years, waiting until after graduation so they could get married, but when he was killed, she was left devastated, especially when he left a will gifting her to his stepbrother instead. When every breath without her true love seems like an impossibility, she is forced to plan a wedding to the man who’s been watching her for years or endure the wrath of the secret society of which he is now the heir. But when she feels like she’s drowning in despair, he brings her to his workshop, where she discovers that her darkness matches his own.
For years Aiden has watched Ari, especially when she was with his brother, but he never expected she would one day be his. As the Reaper of The Order, he is used to operating in the shadows, but now that he has his chance to claim Ari, he longs to bring her into the light. As they reluctantly get closer, they can’t help but bring his brother into their intimate moments, neither of them ready to let him go. While they try to navigate their new reality, a shadow watches them, refusing to let either of them go.
I received an early copy of this book from @TheAuthor.Agency and I could not believe it was the author’s debut. This story took darkness to another level, as we explore the surface of The Order, and the rival organization threatening everything they have worked for. With Ari getting attacked, Aiden becomes even more determined to track down their enemies, especially considering they still haven’t identified who’s responsible for his brother’s death. Watching both Aiden and Ari grieve Brodie in different ways showed the depth of their love for him, and I especially appreciated the glimpse into Aiden’s fantasies. I loved the way the author introduced the shadow’s POV into the story, giving us a glimpse of his motivations, without revealing his true identity until the end of the book. This story ends with some pretty significant revelations, and a major cliffhanger that will leave you anxiously waiting for book 2.
For years Aiden has watched Ari, especially when she was with his brother, but he never expected she would one day be his. As the Reaper of The Order, he is used to operating in the shadows, but now that he has his chance to claim Ari, he longs to bring her into the light. As they reluctantly get closer, they can’t help but bring his brother into their intimate moments, neither of them ready to let him go. While they try to navigate their new reality, a shadow watches them, refusing to let either of them go.
I received an early copy of this book from @TheAuthor.Agency and I could not believe it was the author’s debut. This story took darkness to another level, as we explore the surface of The Order, and the rival organization threatening everything they have worked for. With Ari getting attacked, Aiden becomes even more determined to track down their enemies, especially considering they still haven’t identified who’s responsible for his brother’s death. Watching both Aiden and Ari grieve Brodie in different ways showed the depth of their love for him, and I especially appreciated the glimpse into Aiden’s fantasies. I loved the way the author introduced the shadow’s POV into the story, giving us a glimpse of his motivations, without revealing his true identity until the end of the book. This story ends with some pretty significant revelations, and a major cliffhanger that will leave you anxiously waiting for book 2.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you for the ARC of this book. Everything I write is my own opinion.
I was hooked with this book, I read most of it in one sitting. Good job on your debut novel Alex!
We start with a prologue explaining, quite briefly, Ari and Brodie’s friendship which then turns to a romantic relationship. Time passes and Brodie is then assassinated and leaves Ari to his stepbrother. I’m glad that we then see flashbacks to the past which are always little clues left to piece a story together. It’s clear that Aiden has always been obsessed. But who was he obsessed with? And all I’m going to say is the MMF trope of this book is very interesting!
Brodie was the heir to the Order which is run by the Araneae family. When he died, this reverted to Aiden.
Aiden and Ari are the epitome of enemies to lovers. The loss and grief they are suffering ends up pulling them together. There is a lot of smut which is mostly directly related to the blood lust Ari and Aiden feel so I’d say it’s more an erotic horror due to the torture scenes and Ari and Aiden’s “morgue dates”. Which I’m good with! I love anything unhinged.
I loved the development of Aiden and Ari’s relationship. Aiden is the reaper to everyone but her. He would burn down the world for her. I love Ari’s sass, she’s not afraid to stand up for herself. Aiden’s sarcastic sense of humour peeking through was fun. You can tell he only lets Ari see the playful and softer side of him.
The story is told from multiple POVs and twists and turns will keep you guessing. But will Aiden and Ari be able to weather the storm that will come from the revelations at the end of the book? There’s a secret that I don’t think any of you will see coming!
My only qualm is with the hockey element of this story, I felt like this didn’t bring anything to the story apart from one character that’s seen outside of the arena. I don’t think this was needed.
I look forward to reading the next one, I need to know what happens next 👀
I was hooked with this book, I read most of it in one sitting. Good job on your debut novel Alex!
We start with a prologue explaining, quite briefly, Ari and Brodie’s friendship which then turns to a romantic relationship. Time passes and Brodie is then assassinated and leaves Ari to his stepbrother. I’m glad that we then see flashbacks to the past which are always little clues left to piece a story together. It’s clear that Aiden has always been obsessed. But who was he obsessed with? And all I’m going to say is the MMF trope of this book is very interesting!
Brodie was the heir to the Order which is run by the Araneae family. When he died, this reverted to Aiden.
Aiden and Ari are the epitome of enemies to lovers. The loss and grief they are suffering ends up pulling them together. There is a lot of smut which is mostly directly related to the blood lust Ari and Aiden feel so I’d say it’s more an erotic horror due to the torture scenes and Ari and Aiden’s “morgue dates”. Which I’m good with! I love anything unhinged.
I loved the development of Aiden and Ari’s relationship. Aiden is the reaper to everyone but her. He would burn down the world for her. I love Ari’s sass, she’s not afraid to stand up for herself. Aiden’s sarcastic sense of humour peeking through was fun. You can tell he only lets Ari see the playful and softer side of him.
The story is told from multiple POVs and twists and turns will keep you guessing. But will Aiden and Ari be able to weather the storm that will come from the revelations at the end of the book? There’s a secret that I don’t think any of you will see coming!
My only qualm is with the hockey element of this story, I felt like this didn’t bring anything to the story apart from one character that’s seen outside of the arena. I don’t think this was needed.
I look forward to reading the next one, I need to know what happens next 👀
Review of advance copy received from Author
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 Stars
🌶️🌶️🌶️3/5 pepper
I recently finished His Last Will by Alex Evans, and I’m still reeling. I cannot believe this is her debut novel, the writing, the characters, the plot… everything was so unbelievably impressive. This is easily one of the best MMF books I’ve ever read.
Ari, Aiden, and Brodie were phenomenal. Aiden especially stole the show for me, completely unhinged, unpredictable, chaotic in the best possible way and somehow his personality fit perfectly with both Ari and Brodie. The dynamic between the three of them was electric, balanced, and so well-crafted that I kept catching myself thinking, How is this her first book?
The storyline hooked me from the start. The secret society element gives off mafia adjacent vibes, which I loved, and the hockey aspect was such a bonus. Getting actual on ice moments, seeing Aiden interact with his teammates, and feeling the energy of the game added so much depth. And Ashton? I am begging for his book. I don’t think I’ve ever been this invested in a supporting character, he was absolutely fantastically unhinged.
The spice was exactly what I hoped for: wild, explosive, perfectly matched to the tone of the story, and never overdone. And yes… it opens with a banger. No spoilers, but wow.
The pacing was tight, the plot felt well thought out, and the multiple POVs kept the momentum going. Every time I finished a chapter, I found myself asking, Is book two out yet? I kept messaging my friends like a menace trying to confirm the release date because I need more of this world immediately.
I can’t get over how well written this book is, how layered the characters are, how even the morally gray one’s shine, how immersive the entire experience felt. This is absolutely a top read of the year for me. If you love MMF, dark hockey romance, and a secret society twist, you need to pick this one up. I promise you won’t be disappointed.
🌶️🌶️🌶️3/5 pepper
I recently finished His Last Will by Alex Evans, and I’m still reeling. I cannot believe this is her debut novel, the writing, the characters, the plot… everything was so unbelievably impressive. This is easily one of the best MMF books I’ve ever read.
Ari, Aiden, and Brodie were phenomenal. Aiden especially stole the show for me, completely unhinged, unpredictable, chaotic in the best possible way and somehow his personality fit perfectly with both Ari and Brodie. The dynamic between the three of them was electric, balanced, and so well-crafted that I kept catching myself thinking, How is this her first book?
The storyline hooked me from the start. The secret society element gives off mafia adjacent vibes, which I loved, and the hockey aspect was such a bonus. Getting actual on ice moments, seeing Aiden interact with his teammates, and feeling the energy of the game added so much depth. And Ashton? I am begging for his book. I don’t think I’ve ever been this invested in a supporting character, he was absolutely fantastically unhinged.
The spice was exactly what I hoped for: wild, explosive, perfectly matched to the tone of the story, and never overdone. And yes… it opens with a banger. No spoilers, but wow.
The pacing was tight, the plot felt well thought out, and the multiple POVs kept the momentum going. Every time I finished a chapter, I found myself asking, Is book two out yet? I kept messaging my friends like a menace trying to confirm the release date because I need more of this world immediately.
I can’t get over how well written this book is, how layered the characters are, how even the morally gray one’s shine, how immersive the entire experience felt. This is absolutely a top read of the year for me. If you love MMF, dark hockey romance, and a secret society twist, you need to pick this one up. I promise you won’t be disappointed.
September 8, 2026
Peppers -3
Stars - 4
Hearts - 4
The Araneace Brothers Duet
ARC: Yes
Format: eBook
Recommend: I really enjoyed it... Great read, couldn’t put it down.
Thropes
MMF Why Choose
Dark Hockey Romance
Step Brothers
Secret Society
Stalking
Contract Marriage
His Last Will is Alex Evans' first book, and I really hope it becomes popular because it was so good! I loved Aiden’s protective and intense personality; it was perfect. I enjoyed this book so much and honestly think everyone should read it. It has elements of secret groups, mafia-like vibes, and dark romance. I read it all in one sitting and couldn't put it down. I'm really excited for the next book coming soon! Arianna is engaged to be the wife of the heir to a powerful group called the Order. Her true love, Brodie, died in her arms, and in his will, he left her to his step-brother Aiden. When Ari finally gives in to her deepest, darkest feelings and starts to get close to Aiden, I am here for it! Aiden wishes he could have both Ari and Brodie, but since Brodie is gone, he’s going to be careful not to mess things up. He feels a connection to Ari's hidden, intense side, which matches his own. Just remember this ends on a cliffhanger.
Thoughts
The story kept me interested the whole time, although I did guess some of what might happen. But the ending really surprised me and left me wanting more; I can’t wait for the next book! Just a heads-up, there are some intense scenes, so be aware of the warnings before reading. Also, the story ends on a cliffhanger, so it’s not fully wrapped up. Thanks so much, Alex, for letting me read this early; it was truly great, and I’m excited to see what happens next. I loved it! I’m very eager to see how their story continues.
Quote(s)
"Anger, lust, and relief fueled by bloodshed."
Stars - 4
Hearts - 4
The Araneace Brothers Duet
ARC: Yes
Format: eBook
Recommend: I really enjoyed it... Great read, couldn’t put it down.
Thropes
MMF Why Choose
Dark Hockey Romance
Step Brothers
Secret Society
Stalking
Contract Marriage
His Last Will is Alex Evans' first book, and I really hope it becomes popular because it was so good! I loved Aiden’s protective and intense personality; it was perfect. I enjoyed this book so much and honestly think everyone should read it. It has elements of secret groups, mafia-like vibes, and dark romance. I read it all in one sitting and couldn't put it down. I'm really excited for the next book coming soon! Arianna is engaged to be the wife of the heir to a powerful group called the Order. Her true love, Brodie, died in her arms, and in his will, he left her to his step-brother Aiden. When Ari finally gives in to her deepest, darkest feelings and starts to get close to Aiden, I am here for it! Aiden wishes he could have both Ari and Brodie, but since Brodie is gone, he’s going to be careful not to mess things up. He feels a connection to Ari's hidden, intense side, which matches his own. Just remember this ends on a cliffhanger.
Thoughts
The story kept me interested the whole time, although I did guess some of what might happen. But the ending really surprised me and left me wanting more; I can’t wait for the next book! Just a heads-up, there are some intense scenes, so be aware of the warnings before reading. Also, the story ends on a cliffhanger, so it’s not fully wrapped up. Thanks so much, Alex, for letting me read this early; it was truly great, and I’m excited to see what happens next. I loved it! I’m very eager to see how their story continues.
Quote(s)
"Anger, lust, and relief fueled by bloodshed."
September 16, 2026
Ari's grief journey is an interesting one as she finds out the love of her life, Brodie, has willed her to his stepbrother, like a piece of property. That's a great enemies to lovers premise if I ever heard one!
The book starts with Brodie and Ari getting together when they were younger. I'd loved to have seen that fleshed out a bit more as Brodie seemingly went from player (to the point where he is with girls in front of Ari) to a one woman man overnight. They did seem to have a genuine connection and he was possessive of Ari but I wanted to know more about the moment everything changed for him. As there are arranged marriages at play, I was giving it a little bit of a side eye.
Aiden though is very different; he has been watching Ari the way she was watching Brodie. They are both pushed into an arranged marriage thanks to Brodie but chaotic spider dad Aiden brings out a side in Ari that she didn't know was there. They bond over Aiden's participation in Asher's (I need more of him!) projects and their connection simmers away throughout. They both mourn Brodie in different ways and there are some pretty heavy hints at the true nature of the stepbrothers' relationship. The mystery of who took Brodie out is central to the plot and there is a crucial reveal towards the end which made for a fun cliffhanger; it didn't lessen my engagement guessing it earlier but if that had been leaned into a little harder from the alternate POV it would have been great as I have so many questions!
Bosco is also a lot of fun - I am never looking at a spider in the same way again!
My interpretation of the star system;
3 stars - I enjoyed it; would read the author again
4 stars - I really liked it; I am invested and definitely want more from this author/series
5 stars - I loved it; I engaged with this book completely until I finished it and it is one I will re-read
The book starts with Brodie and Ari getting together when they were younger. I'd loved to have seen that fleshed out a bit more as Brodie seemingly went from player (to the point where he is with girls in front of Ari) to a one woman man overnight. They did seem to have a genuine connection and he was possessive of Ari but I wanted to know more about the moment everything changed for him. As there are arranged marriages at play, I was giving it a little bit of a side eye.
Aiden though is very different; he has been watching Ari the way she was watching Brodie. They are both pushed into an arranged marriage thanks to Brodie but chaotic spider dad Aiden brings out a side in Ari that she didn't know was there. They bond over Aiden's participation in Asher's (I need more of him!) projects and their connection simmers away throughout. They both mourn Brodie in different ways and there are some pretty heavy hints at the true nature of the stepbrothers' relationship. The mystery of who took Brodie out is central to the plot and there is a crucial reveal towards the end which made for a fun cliffhanger; it didn't lessen my engagement guessing it earlier but if that had been leaned into a little harder from the alternate POV it would have been great as I have so many questions!
Bosco is also a lot of fun - I am never looking at a spider in the same way again!
My interpretation of the star system;
3 stars - I enjoyed it; would read the author again
4 stars - I really liked it; I am invested and definitely want more from this author/series
5 stars - I loved it; I engaged with this book completely until I finished it and it is one I will re-read
Review of advance copy
That ending? And these characters! I need book two now!
Arianna, Ari to most, is in love with Brodie, and we see them get together in the prologue, but by chapter one, he's gone. Enter Aidan, his stepbrother, whom Ari's been Willed to in order to protect her. Due to the secret society Brodie and Aidan are a part of, this makes complete sense to everyone but is not something Ari was expecting, and it takes her time to come around. Aidan does find a way to get through to her, and they eventually come to an understanding about their relationship. We, as the reader, see glimpses of what could have been between them and views of the past, but also get a third voice and their perspective of Aidan and Ari's relationship and wanting to be in it with them. Just as we find out a major revelation about Ari, we get an answer and are left on a cliffhanger of Aidan and Ari's reaction.
This is book one of a duet.
This book was so addictive, and I couldn't put it down! I love how both brothers were obsessed with Ari and wanted her, and she seemed to be too, but due to (possibly) societal norms, she thought she could only have one. I do have to wonder if anything had ever happened between the brothers in the past before Brodie was gone, or if that was a fantasy in their mind. I will say, I had called who Him was very early on, but that didn't take away from the book at all, only enhanced the cliffhanger a bit knowing what was coming. It will be interesting to see how this all comes together and how deep their father seems to be in everything, as I'm questioning everything he seems to be doing at the moment.
I received an advance review copy from The Author Agency, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Arianna, Ari to most, is in love with Brodie, and we see them get together in the prologue, but by chapter one, he's gone. Enter Aidan, his stepbrother, whom Ari's been Willed to in order to protect her. Due to the secret society Brodie and Aidan are a part of, this makes complete sense to everyone but is not something Ari was expecting, and it takes her time to come around. Aidan does find a way to get through to her, and they eventually come to an understanding about their relationship. We, as the reader, see glimpses of what could have been between them and views of the past, but also get a third voice and their perspective of Aidan and Ari's relationship and wanting to be in it with them. Just as we find out a major revelation about Ari, we get an answer and are left on a cliffhanger of Aidan and Ari's reaction.
This is book one of a duet.
This book was so addictive, and I couldn't put it down! I love how both brothers were obsessed with Ari and wanted her, and she seemed to be too, but due to (possibly) societal norms, she thought she could only have one. I do have to wonder if anything had ever happened between the brothers in the past before Brodie was gone, or if that was a fantasy in their mind. I will say, I had called who Him was very early on, but that didn't take away from the book at all, only enhanced the cliffhanger a bit knowing what was coming. It will be interesting to see how this all comes together and how deep their father seems to be in everything, as I'm questioning everything he seems to be doing at the moment.
I received an advance review copy from The Author Agency, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Omfg I actually loved this book so much!! 😍
The writing, the detail, the spice, the story, the spice, the characters, the SPICE, I’m obsessed!! I loved all of it so much!!😍😍 and if you couldn’t tell the spice in this was definitely spicing from the start 🥵🥵🤣🤣
I actually can’t wait to find out what happens next!! 😍
I need books two like yesterday! 😍🤣
Can we also just take a moment for Bosco the hørny spider I’m not a very big fan of spiders but you literally can’t not like this guy 🤣🖤
The story starts with Brodie and Ari relationship but after Brodie is killed it come to light that in he’s will he gave Ari to his step brother Aiden 👀🫣
What could possibly go wrong?? 🤣🖤
Well Ari and Aiden are enemies for a start!!😍🖤
Make sure you preorder your copy now!!😍😍
Don’t forget to check the trigger warnings 🖤
Book over view…
𝐈 𝐯𝐨𝐰 𝐭𝐨 𝐦𝐚𝐤𝐞 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐥𝐢𝐟𝐞 𝐚 𝐥𝐢𝐯𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐡𝐞𝐥𝐥.
In his last will and testament, he signed me over to him.
Now I’m contracted to marry my dead boyfriend’s stepbrother. The new heir of The Araneae Order.
The man determined to ruin me - dismantle me, piece by piece - is now my fiancé.
A bastard claimed only for the blood running through his veins.
Aiden. Reaper for The Order.
Known for stalking his prey from the shadows.
Injecting them with his venom. Playing with his victims. Reveling when they break.
A predator hellbent on seeking his revenge.
Whose sole focus is now on me.
Joining him in the shadows might be the only way I survive.
𝐓𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐝𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐡 𝐝𝐨 𝐮𝐬 𝐩𝐚𝐫𝐭.
The writing, the detail, the spice, the story, the spice, the characters, the SPICE, I’m obsessed!! I loved all of it so much!!😍😍 and if you couldn’t tell the spice in this was definitely spicing from the start 🥵🥵🤣🤣
I actually can’t wait to find out what happens next!! 😍
I need books two like yesterday! 😍🤣
Can we also just take a moment for Bosco the hørny spider I’m not a very big fan of spiders but you literally can’t not like this guy 🤣🖤
The story starts with Brodie and Ari relationship but after Brodie is killed it come to light that in he’s will he gave Ari to his step brother Aiden 👀🫣
What could possibly go wrong?? 🤣🖤
Well Ari and Aiden are enemies for a start!!😍🖤
Make sure you preorder your copy now!!😍😍
Don’t forget to check the trigger warnings 🖤
Book over view…
𝐈 𝐯𝐨𝐰 𝐭𝐨 𝐦𝐚𝐤𝐞 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐥𝐢𝐟𝐞 𝐚 𝐥𝐢𝐯𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐡𝐞𝐥𝐥.
In his last will and testament, he signed me over to him.
Now I’m contracted to marry my dead boyfriend’s stepbrother. The new heir of The Araneae Order.
The man determined to ruin me - dismantle me, piece by piece - is now my fiancé.
A bastard claimed only for the blood running through his veins.
Aiden. Reaper for The Order.
Known for stalking his prey from the shadows.
Injecting them with his venom. Playing with his victims. Reveling when they break.
A predator hellbent on seeking his revenge.
Whose sole focus is now on me.
Joining him in the shadows might be the only way I survive.
𝐓𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐝𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐡 𝐝𝐨 𝐮𝐬 𝐩𝐚𝐫𝐭.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Ari and Brodie. I don’t even know what to say, with the little bit of time we got between these two you could feel the love that poured out of them for each other. Brodie loved her fiercely and she loved him so openly and for everyone to see.
After tragedy Ari was given to Aiden and let’s just say she wasn’t entirely thrilled. She was angry, hurt, and disappointed that everyone in the family was moving on from Brodie death like he was even there, like his life didn’t matter. Even after Brodie’s death Ari kept his spirt alive… in more ways then one 😏
When Aiden was first introduced I didn’t have any good feelings about him. But slowly as the chapters came and went, my feelings for him slowly morphed into adoration for the love he had for BOTH Ari and Brodie. He LOVED Ari, even if he didn’t want to admit it; and he had loved her for far longer than she knew. The fact that he held onto such strong feelings for her and was able to watch her be with Brodie takes a strong person. But *don’t come for me* I love him so much more than Brodie 😩
And let’s not forget about Bosco, Aiden’s personal HUMP assistant. He’s not a normal assistant either, he’s an 8 legged furry little guy that loves s*x more than any human ever. But he’s most definitely the cutest little spider ever.🕷️
After tragedy Ari was given to Aiden and let’s just say she wasn’t entirely thrilled. She was angry, hurt, and disappointed that everyone in the family was moving on from Brodie death like he was even there, like his life didn’t matter. Even after Brodie’s death Ari kept his spirt alive… in more ways then one 😏
When Aiden was first introduced I didn’t have any good feelings about him. But slowly as the chapters came and went, my feelings for him slowly morphed into adoration for the love he had for BOTH Ari and Brodie. He LOVED Ari, even if he didn’t want to admit it; and he had loved her for far longer than she knew. The fact that he held onto such strong feelings for her and was able to watch her be with Brodie takes a strong person. But *don’t come for me* I love him so much more than Brodie 😩
And let’s not forget about Bosco, Aiden’s personal HUMP assistant. He’s not a normal assistant either, he’s an 8 legged furry little guy that loves s*x more than any human ever. But he’s most definitely the cutest little spider ever.🕷️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
His Last Will by Alex Evans
⭐️ 5/5
🌶️ 3/5
Debut novel?! Oh come on, Alex smashed it out of the park!
I finished this book at the end of last week and it’s still sitting with me. Ari and Brodie kick off the book on a sweet note, but after tragedy, Ari is given to Aiden. Ari seems to be stuck in the never ending cycle of loss with no way out. So what happens when Aiden, aka The Reaper, offers her an outlet?
“She is calling to me in the most primal way. Blöod, mürder, knïves.”
I loved the development of these characters! The trust that builds between them is not without difficulties, but Brodie was right, Aiden would always protect Ari. His Queen, His Little Venom, His Bloody Menace.
With the backdrop of The Order, we get a story interwoven with a mafia x upper echelon society vibe where appearances and keeping your mouth shut could mean the difference between life or death. There are secrets abound and book 1 has just scratched the surface.
All this and then Alex makes both MMCs play hockey and brutally at that, yes please 🥵
What to expect:
-MMF
-Contracted Marriage
-Stepbrothers
-Secret Society Hurt/Comfort
-St-king
-Enemies to Lovers
-Dark Hockey
Can’t wait to see what’s next!
⭐️ 5/5
🌶️ 3/5
Debut novel?! Oh come on, Alex smashed it out of the park!
I finished this book at the end of last week and it’s still sitting with me. Ari and Brodie kick off the book on a sweet note, but after tragedy, Ari is given to Aiden. Ari seems to be stuck in the never ending cycle of loss with no way out. So what happens when Aiden, aka The Reaper, offers her an outlet?
“She is calling to me in the most primal way. Blöod, mürder, knïves.”
I loved the development of these characters! The trust that builds between them is not without difficulties, but Brodie was right, Aiden would always protect Ari. His Queen, His Little Venom, His Bloody Menace.
With the backdrop of The Order, we get a story interwoven with a mafia x upper echelon society vibe where appearances and keeping your mouth shut could mean the difference between life or death. There are secrets abound and book 1 has just scratched the surface.
All this and then Alex makes both MMCs play hockey and brutally at that, yes please 🥵
What to expect:
-MMF
-Contracted Marriage
-Stepbrothers
-Secret Society Hurt/Comfort
-St-king
-Enemies to Lovers
-Dark Hockey
Can’t wait to see what’s next!
September 5, 2026
The author note is setting the pace for the book. The prologue hot as hell. Brodie and Ari are adorbs and then there is Aiden. He’s a little mysterious. Then we get a time jump and I’m like wtf? Brodie left Ari (not by choice) and left her with Aiden. Ari and Aiden cannot stand each other, they are like fire and fire. The tension between these two is thick. I’m sitting here flabbergasted. This book is crazy the secret society within it is even crazier. Ari has spunk and Aiden likes it very much. These two get turned on by blood and torture and I’m not mad at it! The spice was just so good. I mean there was a hockey stick and graveyard and that’s all I’m going to say. And we can’t forget about our horny spider Boscoe( he is the main character lol). Listen this book is going to take you through the motions. I cried, I giggled all of it! And that cliffhanger was disrespectful. I was like “Alex how you going to do us like that?” I throughly enjoyed this book. The writing was amazing. It was so well detailed I was drawing pictures of scenes in my mind. I don’t know where we going with book two but I know I will be tuned in with popcorn. I need answers. It’s about to get messy.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 17, 2026
What an absolutely amazing debut Novel. I was pulled in and captivated from the first few pages. While the story starts off like a sweet romance with Ari obsessed with her bet friend Brodie and them finally getting together, it quickly chances with devastating tragedy and grief. While Ari is struggling daily with her grief life keeps moving forward. She soon finds a twist that changes everything. We soon see how her and Aiden fit. The story has dark and twisted themes that are intriguing then you throw The Order a secret society and you know your going to get o much more within the story. The twists and secrets that keep coming keep you glued to the pages and on the edge of your seat. I loved the new side of Ari that comes out in her grief and how Aiden shows her how to let it all out in one vicious way. The way Aiden and Ari give in to the violence and finally let go with each other was written beautifully. Even the side characters bring so much to the story, i could not get enough of Ashton and Bosco. You are hit with a cliffhanger, things are about to get very interesting. I was given this book as an ARC for my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
His Last Will was fun. From the early pages, you could tell Alex Evans has a true love for the dark romance genre and went full tilt with her debut novel. It reminded me of Den of Vipers (in spirit, not storyline), because it was over the top in all the best ways. Like Anthony, the current head of the Order, pulling his gun out at the dining room table to win an argument.
The story is fast-paced and told in a dual timeline format, with key moments from the past spliced into the present-day storyline. Ari and Aiden are thrust together due to Brodie’s will, but through their grief (and maybe some torture) they find comfort in each other and kick off an explosive reveal. We end on an explosive cliffhanger, but it felt like a very natural place to break up the duet.
There are some first-novel bumps, and some places where you just have to roll with the story rather than be pedantic about choices/logic, but it is absolutely worth it to jump in and enjoy the wild ride.
The reveal of book 2 is going to be amazing, and I cannot wait!
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I received an advance copy of this book from The Author Agency at no charge. This is my honest, voluntary review.
The story is fast-paced and told in a dual timeline format, with key moments from the past spliced into the present-day storyline. Ari and Aiden are thrust together due to Brodie’s will, but through their grief (and maybe some torture) they find comfort in each other and kick off an explosive reveal. We end on an explosive cliffhanger, but it felt like a very natural place to break up the duet.
There are some first-novel bumps, and some places where you just have to roll with the story rather than be pedantic about choices/logic, but it is absolutely worth it to jump in and enjoy the wild ride.
The reveal of book 2 is going to be amazing, and I cannot wait!
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I received an advance copy of this book from The Author Agency at no charge. This is my honest, voluntary review.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
His Last Will by Alex Evans pulled me in from the very beginning. Ari’s life is turned upside down after her boyfriend’s death, and discovering what was left for her in his will sets off a chain of events involving Aiden, family secrets, and the mysterious Araneae Order. I loved the tension between Ari and Aiden. Their relationship is complicated, frustrating, and full of chemistry, which made it impossible to stop reading. The story also had plenty of twists and surprises that kept me guessing. And I have to mention Bosco, the tarantula! I never expected a spider to become such an entertaining part of the story, but somehow he did. This is definitely a dark romance, so check the content warnings if needed. The ending left me wanting answers and immediately reaching for the next book. Overall, His Last Will was a fast-paced, dark, mysterious read with great tension, memorable characters, and just enough humor to balance the darkness.
I received an ARC copy from The Author Agency. Thank you for giving me the chance to read this novel and share my honest review of the novel
I received an ARC copy from The Author Agency. Thank you for giving me the chance to read this novel and share my honest review of the novel
September 16, 2026
Thank you to The Author Agency and Alex Evans for the ARC — this review is my honest opinion.
Tropes:
🥀MMF 🥀Contracted Marriage 🥀Dark Hockey 🥀Secret Society 🥀Hurt/Comfort 🥀Stalking 🥀Enemies to Lovers 🥀Stepbrothers
Wow, this book captured my attention right from the start. This book centres on Brodie, Ari, and Aiden. Brodie is the love of Ari's life. Brodie and Aiden are stepbrothers. After a terrible event, Ari and Aiden end up having to get engaged.. I don't wanna give anything away, so I'll just stop here.
Man, this book was fantastic! There was loads of suspense, some laughs, spice, and a lot of violence. I really enjoyed how Ari and Aiden began connecting.This book wraps up on a cliffhanger, so there's loads of secrets waiting to be revealed.
This book has everything you would want in a dark romance. It's MMF, which is always awesome! The story includes Bosco, an intelligent spider, and a variety of interesting side characters.
This is for readers who enjoy a dark, violent, and spicy story.
CONTENT WARNINGS: There is a lot of violence and gore.
Tropes:
🥀MMF 🥀Contracted Marriage 🥀Dark Hockey 🥀Secret Society 🥀Hurt/Comfort 🥀Stalking 🥀Enemies to Lovers 🥀Stepbrothers
Wow, this book captured my attention right from the start. This book centres on Brodie, Ari, and Aiden. Brodie is the love of Ari's life. Brodie and Aiden are stepbrothers. After a terrible event, Ari and Aiden end up having to get engaged.. I don't wanna give anything away, so I'll just stop here.
Man, this book was fantastic! There was loads of suspense, some laughs, spice, and a lot of violence. I really enjoyed how Ari and Aiden began connecting.This book wraps up on a cliffhanger, so there's loads of secrets waiting to be revealed.
This book has everything you would want in a dark romance. It's MMF, which is always awesome! The story includes Bosco, an intelligent spider, and a variety of interesting side characters.
This is for readers who enjoy a dark, violent, and spicy story.
CONTENT WARNINGS: There is a lot of violence and gore.
Review of advance copy received from Author
𝘛𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘬𝘴, 𝘈𝘭𝘦𝘹, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘛𝘈𝘈 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘈𝘙𝘊 𝘰𝘱𝘱𝘰𝘳𝘵𝘶𝘯𝘪𝘵𝘺. 𝘐’𝘮 𝘭𝘦𝘢𝘷𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘮𝘺 𝘩𝘰𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘰𝘱𝘪𝘯𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘷𝘰𝘭𝘶𝘯𝘵𝘢𝘳𝘪𝘭𝘺.
Alex... this was your debut?! That’s some straight-up lie, mate, because this was SO well executed!! Ari was contracted to be betrothed to her dead boyfriend’s stepbrother, who literally had his eyes on her from the beginning. I fucking loved how Aiden’s brain worked 🤣. And this is potentially setting us up for an MMF in the next installment because both stepbrothers are bi, secretly into each other, AND into Ari at the same time. 👀 This is a fast-paced, unhinged DARK ROMANCE, so please check the TW/CW. It’s definitely not a dark rom-com, even if I was laughing my ass off through most of it. Thanks, Alex, I needed that when everything around me is currently on fire. 😭 Even if Bosco managed to creep me out, it was like a breath of fresh air seeing another creature besides your typical fur babies as his sidekick. 🕷️
All 3 are 22, but it didn’t scream college or hockey romance much to me, and aside from Aiden and Ari’s supposed “dates” and what happened around the 93% mark, most of the plot was pretty predictable for me, including the cliffhanger. I REALLY hope the part after 93% was revised in the final draft because it didn’t hit for me at all. Instead of kicking things up, it felt way too tame. And I absolutely fucking hate their parents. 😒 The spice was also pretty low for me and felt rushed, so my 4 stars are honestly for making me laugh my ass off more than anything. Still, I can’t wait for Book 2 because that potential MMF setup has my attention. 👀
If you like future MMF, secret societies, spider dad, bi MMCs, stepbrothers x the girl who was taken in, and tattooed men, you might like this!
Alex... this was your debut?! That’s some straight-up lie, mate, because this was SO well executed!! Ari was contracted to be betrothed to her dead boyfriend’s stepbrother, who literally had his eyes on her from the beginning. I fucking loved how Aiden’s brain worked 🤣. And this is potentially setting us up for an MMF in the next installment because both stepbrothers are bi, secretly into each other, AND into Ari at the same time. 👀 This is a fast-paced, unhinged DARK ROMANCE, so please check the TW/CW. It’s definitely not a dark rom-com, even if I was laughing my ass off through most of it. Thanks, Alex, I needed that when everything around me is currently on fire. 😭 Even if Bosco managed to creep me out, it was like a breath of fresh air seeing another creature besides your typical fur babies as his sidekick. 🕷️
All 3 are 22, but it didn’t scream college or hockey romance much to me, and aside from Aiden and Ari’s supposed “dates” and what happened around the 93% mark, most of the plot was pretty predictable for me, including the cliffhanger. I REALLY hope the part after 93% was revised in the final draft because it didn’t hit for me at all. Instead of kicking things up, it felt way too tame. And I absolutely fucking hate their parents. 😒 The spice was also pretty low for me and felt rushed, so my 4 stars are honestly for making me laugh my ass off more than anything. Still, I can’t wait for Book 2 because that potential MMF setup has my attention. 👀
If you like future MMF, secret societies, spider dad, bi MMCs, stepbrothers x the girl who was taken in, and tattooed men, you might like this!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I KNEW IT! I FUCKING KNEW IT!
Omg this is amazing! I had a great time reading this. I keep on saying WTF and WHAT THE HELL every 5 minutes. Wait, I just realized that its Alex's first book. Okay that is absolutely wild! Alex, this book left me speechless! I was emotional reading Ari's POV about Brodie. After crying for 10 minutes, I was fuming, then I was confuse, then I was giddy. I look like a crazy person. Lol! I don't want to spoil anything. I can't choose who I love more. Brodie or Aiden. I just want both. I need them both! Omg this book got me on a chokehold. The spice, chef's kiss. The characters (Reese included), I need more of them. The plot, I was invested! I can even explain how obsessed I am with this book. Guys, listen to me, read this. Add this to your TBR immediately! You will WTF every chapter because it was THAT GOOD! Can't wait for the next book <3
ps: There's this conversation that Aiden and Ari had (I don't want to spoil anything). But when Aiden asked Ari "Or is it me?" Idk why I teared up. I was emotional for Aiden. I love him so much :(
Omg this is amazing! I had a great time reading this. I keep on saying WTF and WHAT THE HELL every 5 minutes. Wait, I just realized that its Alex's first book. Okay that is absolutely wild! Alex, this book left me speechless! I was emotional reading Ari's POV about Brodie. After crying for 10 minutes, I was fuming, then I was confuse, then I was giddy. I look like a crazy person. Lol! I don't want to spoil anything. I can't choose who I love more. Brodie or Aiden. I just want both. I need them both! Omg this book got me on a chokehold. The spice, chef's kiss. The characters (Reese included), I need more of them. The plot, I was invested! I can even explain how obsessed I am with this book. Guys, listen to me, read this. Add this to your TBR immediately! You will WTF every chapter because it was THAT GOOD! Can't wait for the next book <3
ps: There's this conversation that Aiden and Ari had (I don't want to spoil anything). But when Aiden asked Ari "Or is it me?" Idk why I teared up. I was emotional for Aiden. I love him so much :(
Review of advance copy received from Author
His Last Will is Alex Evans debut book. Let’s just say it will leave you wanting more. This had it all in a why choose, enemies to lovers, dark hockey and more.
Arianna ‘Ari’ has always been in love with Brodie. You’ll see that right away that their chemistry is off the charts. But life throws them a curveball and the unthinkable happens. So they all must move on. Brodie leaves her to his step brother Aiden. So they must marry, and you’ll see all the highs and lows between these two. Let’s say the hate brings out something to the table, once they give in, their chemistry is unmatched. The feelings are there for the both of them, but they also still have strong feelings for Brodie that hasn’t been expressed. When danger lurks and puts Ari in danger Aiden will do everything to keeps her safe. You’ll see lots of twist and turns, and that ending was everything. I can’t wait to see what’s going to come next.
Arc was provided for honest review.
Arianna ‘Ari’ has always been in love with Brodie. You’ll see that right away that their chemistry is off the charts. But life throws them a curveball and the unthinkable happens. So they all must move on. Brodie leaves her to his step brother Aiden. So they must marry, and you’ll see all the highs and lows between these two. Let’s say the hate brings out something to the table, once they give in, their chemistry is unmatched. The feelings are there for the both of them, but they also still have strong feelings for Brodie that hasn’t been expressed. When danger lurks and puts Ari in danger Aiden will do everything to keeps her safe. You’ll see lots of twist and turns, and that ending was everything. I can’t wait to see what’s going to come next.
Arc was provided for honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
3.5/5. I was really intrigued by this premise. I enjoyed Ari a lot. She was feisty and strong willed. I liked Aiden, too. He's stoic and commanding, but had a sense of humanness that I appreciated. We didn't honestly see much of Brodie. What we did see is his strong leadership and possessiveness. I like how these three go together. I didn't love a couple things, though. First, Brodie being able to sleep with all these girls only to thwart every guy Ari tried to talk to was frustrating. I also felt like the hockey was a bit of an afterthought and we didn't quite need that aspect of the story. And finally I didn't really feel Ari and Aiden fall in love, it just sort of was said that it was happening. I did really enjoy Ashton. I'd read more about him for sure. Overall, it was good writing, but perhaps the storyline wasn't for me.
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