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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.
258 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 16, 2026
About the author
Alex Evans
2 books20 followersAlex Evans is a dark romance author who writes stories 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 146 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 23, 2026
I say this EVERY time, Cliffhangers put me on edge.
BUT...this book is worth the cliff I was left on!
Now I want to start this by saying I do NOT like spiders in any way shape or form. But... Bosco stole my heart, he is the BEST sidekick anyone could ask for. I loved how involved he was in the storyline.
Now this book will reel you in real deep, torture you and break you into pieces before it let's you see the light.
Lots of world building alongside character development and the slow burn of an epic romance.
I'll be waiting on pins and needles for book two to sweep me off my feet!
BUT...this book is worth the cliff I was left on!
Now I want to start this by saying I do NOT like spiders in any way shape or form. But... Bosco stole my heart, he is the BEST sidekick anyone could ask for. I loved how involved he was in the storyline.
Now this book will reel you in real deep, torture you and break you into pieces before it let's you see the light.
Lots of world building alongside character development and the slow burn of an epic romance.
I'll be waiting on pins and needles for book two to sweep me off my feet!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Great dark romance!
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 other things) 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!
---
I received an advance copy of this book from The Author Agency at no charge. This is my honest, voluntary review.
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 other things) 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!
---
I received an advance copy of this book from The Author Agency at no charge. This is my honest, voluntary review.
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 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 30, 2026
In exchange for an honest review i got to read His Last Will by Alex Evans by the Author.
Ok first of as a Tarantula owner I approve of this story i love when they are included into a dark romance and made into a side character.
As someone that has lost a few people in their life i know how that pain can be so raw while the world seem to move on while you stand back and can't move yet. I think Evans really did manage to bring that pain really well forward in the book. Ari is a strong female character and when her beloved fiance Broady gets killed he trough his last will gives Ari to his step brother Aiden, a killer and emotionally voilent person that work at a mourge, even tho they had a rough patch he trust him to take care of her for him after his passing. But both of them arent making it easy for each other as they hate their guts basically but is forced to accept that they will soon become a married couple and take over the Order a secret high standing organization that once your inside there is no getting out of it. This book really make the reader feel the gritty dark setting and the grief Ari goes trough as she tries to come to term with what is about to happen. This book does end on a major cliffhanger so im looking forward to see where the story will go next.
This is the debute book to Evans and I think this is a strong start to a great author so I cant wait to see what the future brings!
Lastly I want to Thank the Author for letting me read this book and I highly recommend and loved the dark setting of this book and the constant friction between the main characters and the tension that seem to explode between them.
Ok first of as a Tarantula owner I approve of this story i love when they are included into a dark romance and made into a side character.
As someone that has lost a few people in their life i know how that pain can be so raw while the world seem to move on while you stand back and can't move yet. I think Evans really did manage to bring that pain really well forward in the book. Ari is a strong female character and when her beloved fiance Broady gets killed he trough his last will gives Ari to his step brother Aiden, a killer and emotionally voilent person that work at a mourge, even tho they had a rough patch he trust him to take care of her for him after his passing. But both of them arent making it easy for each other as they hate their guts basically but is forced to accept that they will soon become a married couple and take over the Order a secret high standing organization that once your inside there is no getting out of it. This book really make the reader feel the gritty dark setting and the grief Ari goes trough as she tries to come to term with what is about to happen. This book does end on a major cliffhanger so im looking forward to see where the story will go next.
This is the debute book to Evans and I think this is a strong start to a great author so I cant wait to see what the future brings!
Lastly I want to Thank the Author for letting me read this book and I highly recommend and loved the dark setting of this book and the constant friction between the main characters and the tension that seem to explode between them.
November 4, 2026
“Delicious. We might have to do this before every game in case I need a little taste on the ice.”
This book left me panting. I did not go into this expecting the spice. But thank you for this!
Definitely cannot wait for book 2.
This book left me panting. I did not go into this expecting the spice. But thank you for this!
Definitely cannot wait for book 2.
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
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 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.
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 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 21, 2026
Sarcasm, murder, grief, torture, forced marriage, spice, possessiveness, voyeurism, fear, feminine rage, kidnapping, a plot twist, aggressive ice hockey… and a horny spider.
You best believe I RAN to read Bosco’s bonus chapter. 😂
I LOVED this book. And I’m sorry, but teasing us with the possibility of the why choose for the whole book and then not giving it to us?! Criminal. Absolutely criminal.
I NEED IT.
AGGRESSIVELY NEED IT.
There honestly wasn’t anything in this book that I didn’t like or didn’t want more of.
Ari was such a badass FMC. Even through her grief, she was sarcastic, strong when she needed to be, and yet still beautifully feminine. I loved that she could be vulnerable without ever losing that strength.
And Aiden… twisted, terrifying Aiden. 🥵 He absolutely melts, but ONLY for her.
It can be so hard to find a book that balances a genuinely strong FMC with a dominant MMC without making her feel like a damsel in distress, but this did it SO well. Their tension, the push and pull, and the way their relationship developed had me completely invested.
And now I just want MORE.
More Bosco. More Gage. More Brodie. More Anthony. More Ashton. More Z.
Honestly, I’ll take whatever you’re giving me because apparently I’m emotionally attached to this entire group now.
Also… the fact that there’s a horny spider in this book is something I never knew I needed in my reading life, but here we are. 😂
Give me the why choose. That’s all I’m asking.
Well… that and approximately 700 more pages.
You best believe I RAN to read Bosco’s bonus chapter. 😂
I LOVED this book. And I’m sorry, but teasing us with the possibility of the why choose for the whole book and then not giving it to us?! Criminal. Absolutely criminal.
I NEED IT.
AGGRESSIVELY NEED IT.
There honestly wasn’t anything in this book that I didn’t like or didn’t want more of.
Ari was such a badass FMC. Even through her grief, she was sarcastic, strong when she needed to be, and yet still beautifully feminine. I loved that she could be vulnerable without ever losing that strength.
And Aiden… twisted, terrifying Aiden. 🥵 He absolutely melts, but ONLY for her.
It can be so hard to find a book that balances a genuinely strong FMC with a dominant MMC without making her feel like a damsel in distress, but this did it SO well. Their tension, the push and pull, and the way their relationship developed had me completely invested.
And now I just want MORE.
More Bosco. More Gage. More Brodie. More Anthony. More Ashton. More Z.
Honestly, I’ll take whatever you’re giving me because apparently I’m emotionally attached to this entire group now.
Also… the fact that there’s a horny spider in this book is something I never knew I needed in my reading life, but here we are. 😂
Give me the why choose. That’s all I’m asking.
Well… that and approximately 700 more pages.
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 19, 2026
By the time I finished reading this book, I was vibrating with excitement. In the give me the second book this instant kind of way. What an amazing debut! I enjoyed this story so much. It was so good. And the mystery plotline was fantastic. I really liked the writing style. I loved Ari and Aiden together, but the sneak peeks of the dynamic between Ari, Aiden and Brodie made me so excited. I think I am in love.
Brodie was so dominant. From the start, I knew he was going to be the most dominant and craziest one. Aiden is crazy but funny; I can't count the number of times he made me laugh out loud. And Ari was my fav, crazy, funny and sassy in the most beautiful way. Let me tell you something: I loved her down to a Tee. The way her grief was written was perfect. And Aiden, we all know you want Brodie; stop deluding yourself. I can't wait to read more about them in the next book.
Apart from the main characters, I think I liked Bosco and Ashton the most. Ashton was deranged; I wonder what goes on in his mind sometimes. Oh, and the plot twist, colour me impressed.
All in all, I really enjoyed this book, and I can't wait for the next book. If you are looking for a spicy book with a mystery subplot involving two stepbrothers and the girl they live with, this book is definitely for you. This was an ARC read
Brodie was so dominant. From the start, I knew he was going to be the most dominant and craziest one. Aiden is crazy but funny; I can't count the number of times he made me laugh out loud. And Ari was my fav, crazy, funny and sassy in the most beautiful way. Let me tell you something: I loved her down to a Tee. The way her grief was written was perfect. And Aiden, we all know you want Brodie; stop deluding yourself. I can't wait to read more about them in the next book.
Apart from the main characters, I think I liked Bosco and Ashton the most. Ashton was deranged; I wonder what goes on in his mind sometimes. Oh, and the plot twist, colour me impressed.
All in all, I really enjoyed this book, and I can't wait for the next book. If you are looking for a spicy book with a mystery subplot involving two stepbrothers and the girl they live with, this book is definitely for you. This was an ARC read
September 28, 2026
I like the story and I really want to know what happens next with these three characters. And I wanna know more about The Order their secret Society. And now for Ari I do like the fact that she’s able to stick up for herself in this world. And that she’s gaining the confidence and power to do so. With Aiden’s help with him showing
Her how to use weapons and sticking up for her with this family. Aiden’s character he is a psychopath. Only cares about a few things in this world in one of them is her. Also, his spider Bosco is always there with him and Ari. And he’s just like his master. Get a third person that is the mystery watching them because they are his prey. And you wanna know why he’s in hiding and who made him hide. Also, at the end you get the cliffhanger with secrets that are being exposed. Then the biggest one of all at the end. I cannot wait to read the next book in the series. Because I wanna know why they were hiding. And what it means for all three of them.
Her how to use weapons and sticking up for her with this family. Aiden’s character he is a psychopath. Only cares about a few things in this world in one of them is her. Also, his spider Bosco is always there with him and Ari. And he’s just like his master. Get a third person that is the mystery watching them because they are his prey. And you wanna know why he’s in hiding and who made him hide. Also, at the end you get the cliffhanger with secrets that are being exposed. Then the biggest one of all at the end. I cannot wait to read the next book in the series. Because I wanna know why they were hiding. And what it means for all three of them.
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 🕸️✨💜🩷🕷️
September 14, 2026
Oh lawd the cliffhanger and huge plot twist at the end…and now I have to wait for book two?!?! This book was really good for a debut novel and is DARK, but there is a clear warning at the beginning of the book about the dark content. I wanted to give the book 5 stars but I just felt a bit disconnected from the characters. It was great writing and I loved the plot, but I wanted to feel more from them. I’m hoping that in book 2 I’ll get to learn more about them and feel more connected! Otherwise, it was a great read!
September 16, 2026
Wow, what a debut book for Alex Evans 😍 Loved this book and had such a good time reading it! These characters may be a tad unhinged, but in the absolute best way. It was dark, funny, spicy, had some good twists, and was just such a great ride!! And that ending was just... well... bring on book 2 🖤
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 Publisher
Who knew a spider could be so adorable?! Not me... but dang did I wanna snuggle Bosco for a lil minute.
This was super fast paced and the spice was so good. I'm not sure I'd truly consider it to be a mmf if it was only happening in a dream, but once it happens in real time - lord help my kindle cause it's gonna combust from the spiciness.
I still didn't quite now where the storyline was going when I read the last page. Lots of twists and mystery with all the characters.. Ari, Brodie and Aiden. Plus, everything with him being the reaper and all that entailed, gifting your stepbrother in your will the woman who is YOUR soulmate, the secret society, loathing the man you're now forced to marry all while grieving the one who holds your soul even in the grave .. yeah there was a lot to unwrap, but still so good.
This was super fast paced and the spice was so good. I'm not sure I'd truly consider it to be a mmf if it was only happening in a dream, but once it happens in real time - lord help my kindle cause it's gonna combust from the spiciness.
I still didn't quite now where the storyline was going when I read the last page. Lots of twists and mystery with all the characters.. Ari, Brodie and Aiden. Plus, everything with him being the reaper and all that entailed, gifting your stepbrother in your will the woman who is YOUR soulmate, the secret society, loathing the man you're now forced to marry all while grieving the one who holds your soul even in the grave .. yeah there was a lot to unwrap, but still so good.
September 20, 2026
I'm torn on this book. On one hand I am intrigued by the ending and curious how the next book is going to play out. Honestly ill probably read it just because I liked the cliffhanger but I did feel there were a few holes in the story that confused me.
Ari was obsessed with brodie so much and made him seem like end all. And she acted as though she was isnt aiden at all and that was the entire first half of the book...but then we get more images of her pining for aiden back then as well but it was ignored for too long for me to believe it.
Id say still give it a read, i enjoyed the spice and i had fun in the second half, i just would love more details about the order and more MMF explored!
Ari was obsessed with brodie so much and made him seem like end all. And she acted as though she was isnt aiden at all and that was the entire first half of the book...but then we get more images of her pining for aiden back then as well but it was ignored for too long for me to believe it.
Id say still give it a read, i enjoyed the spice and i had fun in the second half, i just would love more details about the order and more MMF explored!
September 25, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
I went into this book blind & I have zero regrets. I was immediately sucked into Ari & Aidens world which was full of deceit, power, control & secrets.
Even through all of Ari's grief, she remained fierce and strong. Aiden was possessive, and slightly (alot) unhinged.
The tension between Ari & Aiden was palpable. I loved seeing their relationship change into more and when they finally gave into each other it was everything.
The twist & turns were so good, my jaw was on the literal floor so many times.
Alex did an incredible job with His Last Will. The writing and pacing were perfect! I'm dying for book 2 !!
I went into this book blind & I have zero regrets. I was immediately sucked into Ari & Aidens world which was full of deceit, power, control & secrets.
Even through all of Ari's grief, she remained fierce and strong. Aiden was possessive, and slightly (alot) unhinged.
The tension between Ari & Aiden was palpable. I loved seeing their relationship change into more and when they finally gave into each other it was everything.
The twist & turns were so good, my jaw was on the literal floor so many times.
Alex did an incredible job with His Last Will. The writing and pacing were perfect! I'm dying for book 2 !!
September 23, 2026
This was one of those books where I can see exactly what it was trying to do, but the execution just didn’t work for me as much as I wanted it to.
His Last Will is very dark, very explicit, very dramatic, and extremely intense. The strongest thing about it is that it knows exactly what kind of fantasy it wants to be. It isn’t timid. It doesn’t spend 300 pages pretending it’s a conventional romance before suddenly becoming dark. From the beginning, the reader is thrown into death, obsession, violence, sexual tension, secret societies, grief, murder, and an increasingly disturbing love triangle.
There is no shortage of sex, violence, obsession, possessiveness, morally questionable characters, and shocking moments. If you’re coming specifically for dark romance with a high spice level, the book definitely delivers on that front.
Unfortunately, for me, the intensity often came at the expense of the actual storytelling. The author frequently chooses intensity when the scene actually needs development.
Everyone is angry.
Everyone is dangerous.
Everyone is horny.
Everyone threatens everyone.
Everyone has a dark secret.
There are many passages where the characters experience something at 100% intensity, but the underlying emotional development hasn’t necessarily earned 100%.
The characters had potential, particularly Ari and Aiden, but I wanted more depth from them beyond their anger, attraction, trauma, violence, and obsession. There are moments where I could see the beginnings of genuinely interesting emotional complexity, but the story often moves on to the next dramatic or sexual moment before allowing those emotions to develop properly.
The romance was also very hit-or-miss for me.
There is definitely chemistry between Ari and Aiden, but chemistry and emotional intimacy aren’t always the same thing. I believed that they wanted each other. I wasn’t always equally convinced by the deeper emotional progression of their relationship.
The Brodie element was much more interesting to me because his presence creates an actual emotional complication rather than simply giving Ari and Aiden another obstacle to overcome. The ending also gives the story a major twist that makes me curious about what comes next.
But even with that, the book felt messy rather than deliberately complex at times.
I also think some scenes were included primarily for shock value. Dark romance can absolutely be disturbing, extreme, and morally uncomfortable—that isn’t my issue. My issue is when the darkness doesn’t add enough to the character or story to justify the scene.
That said, I will give the author credit for one thing:
This book is not boring.
There is always something happening, and the author knows how to end chapters in a way that encourages you to keep reading. I finished it because I genuinely wanted to know what was going to happen, even when I wasn’t enjoying the execution.
So, overall, there is a compelling concept underneath all the chaos, and I can see why this book would work for readers who specifically love extremely dark, explicit romance. But for me, it needed considerably more editing, character development, and emotional depth.
I’d probably continue the series because the ending raised enough questions to make me curious—but I’d be going into the next book hoping for stronger execution rather than expecting more of the same intensity.
🌶️ Spice: 5/5
⭐ Overall: 3/5
His Last Will is very dark, very explicit, very dramatic, and extremely intense. The strongest thing about it is that it knows exactly what kind of fantasy it wants to be. It isn’t timid. It doesn’t spend 300 pages pretending it’s a conventional romance before suddenly becoming dark. From the beginning, the reader is thrown into death, obsession, violence, sexual tension, secret societies, grief, murder, and an increasingly disturbing love triangle.
There is no shortage of sex, violence, obsession, possessiveness, morally questionable characters, and shocking moments. If you’re coming specifically for dark romance with a high spice level, the book definitely delivers on that front.
Unfortunately, for me, the intensity often came at the expense of the actual storytelling. The author frequently chooses intensity when the scene actually needs development.
Everyone is angry.
Everyone is dangerous.
Everyone is horny.
Everyone threatens everyone.
Everyone has a dark secret.
There are many passages where the characters experience something at 100% intensity, but the underlying emotional development hasn’t necessarily earned 100%.
The characters had potential, particularly Ari and Aiden, but I wanted more depth from them beyond their anger, attraction, trauma, violence, and obsession. There are moments where I could see the beginnings of genuinely interesting emotional complexity, but the story often moves on to the next dramatic or sexual moment before allowing those emotions to develop properly.
The romance was also very hit-or-miss for me.
There is definitely chemistry between Ari and Aiden, but chemistry and emotional intimacy aren’t always the same thing. I believed that they wanted each other. I wasn’t always equally convinced by the deeper emotional progression of their relationship.
The Brodie element was much more interesting to me because his presence creates an actual emotional complication rather than simply giving Ari and Aiden another obstacle to overcome. The ending also gives the story a major twist that makes me curious about what comes next.
But even with that, the book felt messy rather than deliberately complex at times.
I also think some scenes were included primarily for shock value. Dark romance can absolutely be disturbing, extreme, and morally uncomfortable—that isn’t my issue. My issue is when the darkness doesn’t add enough to the character or story to justify the scene.
That said, I will give the author credit for one thing:
This book is not boring.
There is always something happening, and the author knows how to end chapters in a way that encourages you to keep reading. I finished it because I genuinely wanted to know what was going to happen, even when I wasn’t enjoying the execution.
So, overall, there is a compelling concept underneath all the chaos, and I can see why this book would work for readers who specifically love extremely dark, explicit romance. But for me, it needed considerably more editing, character development, and emotional depth.
I’d probably continue the series because the ending raised enough questions to make me curious—but I’d be going into the next book hoping for stronger execution rather than expecting more of the same intensity.
🌶️ Spice: 5/5
⭐ Overall: 3/5
September 30, 2026
Thank you Alex Evans for an advanced e-copy of this book! This is my honest review.
I was so intrigued by the premise of this book, so basically it’s a secret society organization with some arranged marriage aspect and dislike to instalust to … more 👀 It is book 1 in a duet so it leaves off on a bit of a cliffhanger. The overall plot isn’t resolved, but some things are revealed that I assume are going to be expanded upon in the next book.
I loved how unhinged Aiden was 😂 he is for sure psychotic but like quietly psychotic, and he has hot boy privileges since he’s cute smh. But on that note, this is a darker read only because of the violence involved, Aiden likes to frequent his lair aka the morgue, to take care of the people who have wronged the organization or that they need information from/disposal of people. There is a lot of intentional damage inflicted upon these individuals and I feel like it was a bit portion of the story only because the characters used it as an area to cope with their grief.
So I think the part I liked the most from this book was that while Ari is conflicted with her feelings for Aiden, she didn’t let that stop her from exploring her relationship with him. Although she is grieving Brodie, she is trying to figure out a lot of things, not only from his Will but also with the circumstances of his death. I did feel like the plot moved very quickly when it came to his death as well as with the whole wedding arrangement and what not, but we don’t get too much information on that yet. I think it’s going to be more talked about in book 2.
I will say too, this is a pretty closed world of organized crime, like everything is within a little bubble for them and it’s talked about, but for the most part is easy to follow.
This is a multi POV book, so we get to see certain scenes from different characters 😍
The spice! This Fast burn, medium/low spice, all open door scenes. Some Dom vibes, though not explicitly said, brat taming/punishment, scenes in front of almost unalived and unalived people, grave desecration. Fantasy scenes including MFM and MMF.
❤️ ❤️ ❤️ ❤️
🖤 🖤 🖤
🌶️ 🌶️
I was so intrigued by the premise of this book, so basically it’s a secret society organization with some arranged marriage aspect and dislike to instalust to … more 👀 It is book 1 in a duet so it leaves off on a bit of a cliffhanger. The overall plot isn’t resolved, but some things are revealed that I assume are going to be expanded upon in the next book.
I loved how unhinged Aiden was 😂 he is for sure psychotic but like quietly psychotic, and he has hot boy privileges since he’s cute smh. But on that note, this is a darker read only because of the violence involved, Aiden likes to frequent his lair aka the morgue, to take care of the people who have wronged the organization or that they need information from/disposal of people. There is a lot of intentional damage inflicted upon these individuals and I feel like it was a bit portion of the story only because the characters used it as an area to cope with their grief.
So I think the part I liked the most from this book was that while Ari is conflicted with her feelings for Aiden, she didn’t let that stop her from exploring her relationship with him. Although she is grieving Brodie, she is trying to figure out a lot of things, not only from his Will but also with the circumstances of his death. I did feel like the plot moved very quickly when it came to his death as well as with the whole wedding arrangement and what not, but we don’t get too much information on that yet. I think it’s going to be more talked about in book 2.
I will say too, this is a pretty closed world of organized crime, like everything is within a little bubble for them and it’s talked about, but for the most part is easy to follow.
This is a multi POV book, so we get to see certain scenes from different characters 😍
The spice! This Fast burn, medium/low spice, all open door scenes. Some Dom vibes, though not explicitly said, brat taming/punishment, scenes in front of almost unalived and unalived people, grave desecration. Fantasy scenes including MFM and MMF.
❤️ ❤️ ❤️ ❤️
🖤 🖤 🖤
🌶️ 🌶️
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."
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