How to Kidnap a Fake Date

by Effie Campbell

Discover a new and deliciously spicy dark romantic comedy, perfect for fans of Brynne Weaver, Navessa Allen and Lauren Biel

It's going to be a killer of a good time…

Sweet Maggie Hamilton comes from a long line of people paid to professionally end lives.

Unfortunately, Maggie is a family failure.

Age? Twenty-nine. Kill count? A deeply embarrassing zero.

So when her father decides to marry her off to her psychotic ex at thirty to help her take over the family business, Maggie hatches a plan for the world's worst fake relationship to buy some time.

Which is where broad-shouldered, bad-tempered, offensively attractive Roman Ellis comes in. Maggie's neighbour, who is about as interested in her as he is in a slow, painful death.

But Maggie isn't offering him a choice. With Roman tied to the passenger seat, she's taking him as her plus one to her father's second wedding in the Highlands.

All Maggie has to do is survive the week without dying, murdering anyone or letting anyone in a house of professional killers know that her serious long-term boyfriend is actually her hostage.

Unfortunately for her, Roman isn't going to make it that easy.

Packed with murder, wicked humour and killer spice, this dark romcom is the first in the addictive Killer Kin series.

Genres: Romance, Dark Romance

288 pages, Paperback

Expected publication July 30, 2026

Reviews

[Tiffany ✨️ Bergamot Book Reviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

Maggie is terrible at the family business. As the eldest child, her future has already been planned. She'll take over and lead the charge as the next in line, or she'll need to marry someone who can do it for her. The prospects are low - as her family is in the business of contract killing - but she at least needs a buffer to delay the inevitable marriage to an absolute psychopath. Enter Roman, her handsome neighbour who's rife for blackmail, and Maggie's only hope at fake-boyfriending her way into more time to escape.

*****

I've read a few of Effie Campbell's books, and I knew that going into this I'd get good banter, some hot spice, and absolute weirdos with a vibe. This did not disappoint! I loved that Maggie was such an oddball. She was an outcast in her own unique family, and socially inept when it come to her hot-as-sin neighbour. Her deciding to kidnap him, instead of befriending him and asking his assistance, added the perfect quirky strangeness to set this book on a comical turn - even with the gore and murder.

Roman was his own interesting character, and I wish we got a bit more of him, because his backstory is wild. How he got into his lifestyle and it spun out of control was so intriguing, and watching him slowly self-destruct under layers of lies and guilt made him and Maggie the perfect oddball pairing. She pushed him to be better - while making her own terrible choices - and he encouraged her to be better, while also self-examining his own behaviour.

All in all, this was funny, weird and cute, and I can't wait to read the next book in the series!

*****

I was sent a complimentary advanced reader copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Sarah]

I think this book was previously published as “The Unwilling Plus One”

[Amy :)]

Thank you to Net Galley for providing this ARC 💕

I read this originally as the Unwilling Plus One back in April and I really enjoyed it then and I’m happy to say that upon reading the new release version it still holds up!

Maggie’s struggle with her family’s contract killer business is a key element throughout the story and is really the driving force for all her actions which I found to be interesting and gripping as she doesn’t know how to tell her dad that she doesn’t want to do it.

The interactions between her and Roman were hilarious and very sweet! I feel like Roman became okay with all her secrets way too fast though!

This was a quick and easy read and I highly recommend it if you’re looking for a funny, dark-ish romance ❤️‍🔥

[Kimberly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Unhinged dark romcom with delicious banter and ridiculous chaos

I usually don't like written romcoms and I can only stomache them in audio version...
...but the blurb of this one made me make an instant exception.
And booooooooooy, did it deliver!

Some of my favorite LOL moments include:
🤣how she did not think about how she would get him -all drugged up- down the stairs
🤣how she "helps" him take a wee
🤣how she is known by her sister as the pillow humper

My favorite quotes:

It must be so much easier to lure them to their deaths like a siren calling ships to splinter themselves upon rocks than to have to come at them like a rabid little raccoon.

Dear heavens above. What I'd give for thirty minutes of time on that ride. I'd have to gag his lying mouth, but it would be worth it.

'For the next few days, while we're here,' he says, squeezing my fingers, 'it's us verus everyone else.'
'Our odds are horrendous.' I say, pulling my dress down.
'I've always liked an underdog.'
Woof woof.

What it is about:
Maggie is a wannabe assassin, who cannot stand the sight of blood.
Roman is a blogger who preaches abstinence, after a broken heart, but who actually eases his loneliness through anonymous hookups.
She -desperately- needs a Plus One to her father's wedding and has thought of one solution... 👀

What I loved:
📝the dedication "For my fellow oddballs, who never quite fit. Have you considered kidnapping a hottie to fake date until he falls for you? No? Me either..."
✍️the delicous writing, with little gems like: Crap on a cracker. RIP me. Rest in patheticdom. Just wham, bam, thank you, ma'am. Girth-tastic. Gag-town. Tiny digital ego tokens. Bagsy the shower! Well fuck-a-duck.
🌶️the step-by-step buildup to full-on s*x
🐦‍⬛the one-eyed pet crow that hates all strangers, except Roman
🏃‍♂️when he has the opportunity to -finally- escape, but decides not to #swoon
🔞adult characters (32H, 29h)
➕the extra bonus scene (if you sign up for her newsletter)
🤪the WTF craziness of her deranged ex
🚫how relatable her chaos and messiness is
🖤despite it being a dark romcom, he still has a proper -tragic- background story with his mom leaving and dad committing suicide

What you need to know:
📚interconnected standalone
🫂dual pov, 1st person
🗺️London and Scotland
🔄️opposites attract
🔆grumpy x sunshine
💌fake dating
🏡forced proximity (road trip, parents' house)
🔪killer family chaos
🤳influencer MMC x failed contract killer FMC
💏neighbors to captor/captive to lovers
👑he calls her "Princess"
🏍️he rides a bike
💔3rd act breakup
🔥steamy
❤️HEA

For the safety squad:
🌶️spice: explicit sexual scenes, praise kink
🦺content warnings: stalking, kidnapping, blackmail, violence, murder, knife violence, gun violence, drugging, unwanted voyeurism by authority figure, grief, child abandonment (past), suicide by hanging (past)

[Jade · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was pure chaos in the best possible way. It had me laughing out loud one minute, swooning the next, and then completely caught off guard by how much heart it had.

Maggie absolutely stole the show for me. Her internal monologue is hilarious, and she had me laughing constantly. She gives off major stalker vibes when it comes to Roman, and honestly, I was here for every second of it. The pillow scene? I was crying with laughter. 😂

Roman is much harder to figure out. He’s secretive, guarded, and incredibly hard on himself, but as his walls slowly begin to crumble, you realise there’s so much more to him than first meets the eye.

One of my favourite parts of the book was their road trip. I don’t think I’ve ever experienced so many emotions in one chapter. I laughed, I cringed, I felt uncomfortable, I swooned, and my heart genuinely ached. It perfectly captured everything this book does so well…balancing humour with emotion.

As funny as Maggie is, there’s also a vulnerable side to her that really got to me. Watching her return to what should have been a place of comfort only to see her shrink into herself was heartbreaking. You realise just how little she thinks of herself, and it’s impossible not to want better for her.

Roman sees that too. Without trying to fix her, he simply understands her, and I think that’s exactly what Maggie needed most!!

The chemistry between them builds at the perfect pace. The teasing, the lingering looks, the tiny pieces of themselves they slowly reveal—it all creates this beautifully intimate slow burn. And when they finally stop fighting it? Worth. Every. Single. Page. 🥵

I also have to mention Maggie’s family because… what on earth was happening at that house?! Coffin the crow, the pigs, the absolute madness—I was fully aboard the crazy train, and I loved every minute of it.

There were so many twists and unexpected moments that kept me completely engaged, and just when I thought I knew where things were heading, the story would surprise me again. (Step-mum)

This isn’t a heavy romance. It’s funny, quirky, full of banter, sizzling chemistry, eccentric characters, and plenty of heart. I found myself smiling through so much of it.

If you’re looking for a rom-com that will have you laughing, swooning, and falling in love with two wonderfully chaotic characters, How to Kidnap a Fake Date is definitely one to pick up.

[Athena 💗 · Rating 5 out of 5]

If laugh out loud, over the top, crude humor is your thing then this is a solid 5⭐️ must read!

⚠️ Warning: First thing’s first… this book is graphic. It’s graphic in violent and sexual content. And I’m not just talking spice, it was graphic even when it wasn’t a spicy scene. Much of it was heavily laced with dark humor and it just so happens I found it flipping hilarious. But, I also have a twisted sense of humor so proceed with caution because this book is not going to be for everyone. I’m pretty hard to gross out and even I was like… ok… was that REALLY necessary? Like the👮 “vandalizing” the side of Maggie’s car. 😖

I can’t begin to count all of the times I busted out in laughter while reading this story. Even at the most inopportune times, like sitting in a quiet waiting area with other parents. Maggie is just about as awkward as they come but it was what made this book what it was.

The first 50% of the book was flawless IMO. It was around the halfway mark that the pacing started to get a little wonky but eventually it evened itself out. Judging this book at a romance standpoint is where the rating starts to slip a little. I was enjoying Roman’s hatred for Maggie and was slightly disappointed when he immediately falls into lust and a physical relationship with her so quickly. It’s ok though, it was fun seeing them work as a dynamic duo throughout the rest of the wedding trip charades. I would have liked to see a little more personality from the supporting characters (aside from Granny of course) but honestly the comedy was so dang good that I didn’t really care much about anything else.

There were some grammatical errors, the only reason they bothered me is because I would find myself pausing to reread and make sure I wasn’t reading it wrong. And no, I’m not referring to the British English phrases and spelling.

I am very excited to continue on with the series and I hope Maggie’s tattooed, quiet baby brother, Fraser gets a book in the series after Eliza.

Thank you, NetGalley and Effie Campbell for an e-arc of The Unwilling Plus One! I can’t wait to recommend this to my fellow readers with a twisted sense of humor.

[Vikki · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was completely unhinged.

Respectfully...I loved every single second of it.

If your dark rom-com highlights the FMC kidnapping the MMC to force him to be her fake date, you've already got my attention. The fact that Maggie's kidnapping attempt was somehow both wildly chaotic and absolutely hilarious? I was sold immediately. The scene where she ties Roman up—and then the staircase—had me cackling. I don't know what that says about me as a person, but I'm choosing not to examine it too closely.

Maggie is an absolute disaster in the best possible way. She's clumsy, impulsive, constantly making a mess of things, and somehow at one point even was able to weaponize the chaos she creates. There are plenty of people in her life who see those qualities as flaws, but honestly? They made me love her even more. She's bright, funny, and completely herself in a world dripping with blood, violence, and family expectations. Girl...I get it. I, too, would knock something over while trying to save the day.

Roman was the perfect counterpart. Sure, he starts off hiding something (which Maggie uses for blackmail), but beneath the grumpy exterior and questionable decisions is a genuinely decent guy. He's protective, ridiculously attractive (or so I'm told), and his chemistry with Maggie was absolutely electric. Their banter was effortless, the tension was fantastic, and I couldn't get enough of the two of them together.

The romance, the humor, and the family of professional killers somehow blend into one gloriously chaotic package that shouldn't work nearly as well as it does...but it absolutely does.

And Eddie?

Yeah.

I'm not spoiling anything, but let's just say I was counting down the pages until karma came knocking. Trust me—you'll know exactly why when you meet him.

How to Kidnap a Fake Date is one of those books that embraces its insanity from page one and never apologizes for it. It's dark, hilarious, spicy, violent, heartfelt, and somehow incredibly wholesome beneath all the murder and mayhem.

I laughed. I swooned. I cheered for criminals.

Five stars, and I cannot wait to dive back into the Killer Kin series.

[BookishAmy · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶🌶

🖤 PLEASE READ THE TRIGGER AND CONTENT WARNINGS 🖤

Maggie is terrible at the family business. As the eldest child, her future has already been planned. She'll take over, or she'll need to marry someone who can do it for her. Prospects are low, when your family is in the business of contract killing, but she at least needs a buffer to delay the inevitable marriage to an absolute psychopath of an ex. Enter Roman, her handsome neighbour who's rife for blackmail, and Maggie's only hope at fake-boyfriending her way into more time to escape.

This was my first Effie Campbell book, and it absolutely won't be my last. I expected a dark romantic comedy, but I wasn't prepared for just how hilarious it would be. I genuinely lost count of the number of times I burst out laughing.

Maggie completely stole the show. She's socially awkward, anxious, wonderfully strange, and the definition of chaotic good. Despite growing up surrounded by murder and mayhem, she's somehow the odd one out in her own family. Her awkward interactions with Roman were equal parts sweet and painfully funny, and every terrible decision she made somehow felt completely in character.

Roman was the perfect counterpart to Maggie's chaos. He's a podcast host preaching celibacy while secretly living a very different life, making him a walking contradiction. I loved watching him slowly unravel as Maggie bulldozed her way into his carefully constructed world. Beneath all the humour, Roman's backstory was surprisingly emotional, filled with guilt, lies, and self-destruction. I actually wish we'd gotten more of his history.

The chemistry between them is sizzling, so when the spice hit it really delivered, but what I loved most about these two together was how unexpectedly well they balanced each other. Maggie pushed Roman to confront the person he'd become, while Roman quietly encouraged Maggie to believe she could be more than the disappointment her family saw her as.

[B.E.Love]

Maggie has an unusual family, everyone but Maggie are killers. Maggie knows her family wants her to take her place in the family business and she's tried but Maggie just can't do it. With her father's wedding approaching Maggie knows she will once again be asked when she will be a part of her family's legacy or be married off to her ex who she hates. Maggie likes her life it's nothing like her families but she's happy and next door is Roman, and Maggie knows exactly who Roman really is and she also knows she wants him.

Roman has a carefully curated life, he's made sure people only see what he wants them to see. He may not like all aspects of his life but gives him a life he couldn't imagine having any other way. The only person whose opinion matters is his grandmothers who he loves more than anyone else.

With her father's wedding right around the corner Maggie makes a plan to kidnap Roman and take him to the wedding. This plan is perfect, with Roman at the wedding talks of her marrying her ex will not be an issue and she's been trained all her life to kidnap someone, this should be so easy. So Maggie sets her plan into action, it can't go anything but easy. But Roman disagrees.

This book was so funny, the way Maggie thinks this is a good idea and sets out to achieve her goal makes this story so good. I loved the writing style of this author and just enjoyed this book in general. Maggie is funny and caring. Her families back story was so interesting. Roman isn't what he shows the world but when you see who he really is you see he is perfect for Maggie and a really good guy.

This is the perfect summer read. It's funny, fun and just one of those book you love to pick up. I couldn't get enough and didn't want to finish.

*Thank you Netgalley and Boldwood Books for this ARC

[Dominique Franklin · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC gifted in exchange for review.

It took me maybe three or four chapters to start to feel connected and invested in the characters but once I did, I was locked in. I’ve honestly never read anything like this before. Maggie is a sweet, awkward PA who has the kindest heart. By anyone else’s measure, she is someone to be proud of but in her family’s view, she’s a bit of a disappointment. That’s because her entire family are ruthless contract killers and her dad is determined that Maggie will become a killer and take over the family business. As if that wasn’t bad enough, her dad intends to marry her off to her psycho ex boyfriend who’s only ever wanted to join the family business. Needless to say, our very single Maggie is in a bit of a pickle. She’s been lying to her family about being in a relationship with her neighbor so she decides to take it a step further and kidnap him, forcing him to pretend to be her boyfriend for the duration of the wedding festivities. He is understandably…displeased with the situation but God bless him, Roman isn’t a half the inconsiderate dickwad he pretends to be on social media. He’s got a marshmallow center that he hides because of his fears of abandonment and he keeps everyone except his Gran at arms length. This kidnapping turned out to be the best thing that ever happened to either one of these two lovable lunatics. You’ll cringe, you’ll laugh, you’ll cry and you’ll blush because the spicy is giving exactly what it needed to give. By the end of this book, I was so satisfied, my heart was so full and I was so endeared by these two lunatics that I knew this was going to be added to my collection of unhinged favorites. Can’t wait to make all my friends read this when it’s officially released.

[Amy M · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was originally published as The Unwilling Plus One. I thought I was losing my mind when I read the first page because there is no way I had that bad of deja vu.

This book was absurd in the best way. I had no idea what was going to happen next because not a single character was sane and no one followed a logical thought path.

Maggie comes from a long dynasty of contract killers, except she can't kill. No matter how many times she tries, she just can't bring herself to end a life, even if they deserve it. In a last ditch effort to stop her father from marrying her off to keep the dynasty going, Maggie decides to kidnap and coerce her neighbor into attending her father's wedding with her.

What I loved most about this book is that it brought up every single issue I've had with other FMC murdered books. Maggie and Eliza do a baby wipe shower before going into a bar covered in blood. Maggie drugs Roman and he doesn't miraculously end up in her car. She's dragging him down stairs and grunting because he is too heavy and reassessing her life choices. Eliza having to make a phone call because her chainsaw ran out of battery and the body is now too big to shove down a hole. Effie Campbell really leaned into the humor of ridiculous situations.

I didn't connect with Roman because his character really just exists to boost Maggie's self-confidence. His influencer storyline didn't make sense to me within the overall plot and his only personality that comes out is when he is defending Maggie or flirting with her.

I enjoyed reading this book, but Maggie isn't my preferred type of FMC. That being said, I am really excited to read Eliza's book because I loved her the second she appeared on the page.

Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the free eARC.

[Louise DB&T · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you NetGalley, Effie Campbell & Boldwood Books for allowing me to read this in advance for an honest view!

I was so excited when I saw this up for review on NetGalley as I know people who rave on about Effie Campbell and her Dark Romance books. So, naturally I read the synopsis of this one and found the plot really enticing and it drew me in.

I'm sad to say I was very underwhelmed, and disappointed with this one unfortunately.

I didn't fully vibe with the writing, which, can happen when exploring new authors and I found the characters a little unlikeable.

The plot itself was okay, I feel like it wasn't believable and it was very much, "I hate this woman" to "I need to protect her no mater what" and for this scenario, I feel like it wasn't working well.

This is a book set in Britain, London and the Highlands of Scotland. But there was a lot of American terminology used in the writing which didn't feel right. But then, there was a lot of daft British words thrown in to make it feel like it was set in the UK.

There were some elements I did enjoy. The characters surprisingly interacted and communicated really well, which I enjoy within a book. The family element was also nice, and the evil ex boyfriend being there to cause drama helped with the plot.
I expected more from Maggie towards the end of the book in-regards to the ex and her place within the family. But Effie kept her true to her nature, which I respect.

The book was very smutty from the get-go. Nothing overly kinky, or dark.

Overall, I enjoyed it enough to read it, but I probably won't carry on with this series or pick up from this author again. Just didn't vibe with the writing very much.

[Katy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the ARC!

How to Kidnap a Fake Date is completely unhinged, sexy, hilarious, and chaotic in the BEST way. I was locked into this face paced dark romcom from beginning to end.

The story follows Maggie, a complete weirdo, who comes from a line of contract killers. She is expected to join the family business but her number of kills remains zero. If she can’t get herself to fulfill a contract, her dad will arrange a marriage with someone who can fulfill the duties for her.

A normal person would say yeah dad sorry not for me but Maggie’s solution? Kidnap her neighbor to take to her father’s wedding and parade around as her fake boyfriend so she can’t be married off her to psychotic ex.

The neighbor, Roman, is a total babe living a double life. He preaches celibacy online but sneaks ladies home on the regular. Along with the kidnapping, Maggie is blackmailing him into compliance by threatening to expose his online persona.

The inner monologues of Maggie and Roman as well as their banter together is incredible. It literally had me laughing out loud. Although on paper they don’t make sense together, the MMCs compliment each other in the best way. Not only do they have intense sexual chemistry, they also encourage each other to be exactly who they are and not who they are expected to be. They each have insecurities about not being enough for anyone, but they are for each other. I love how they both noticed each other but never thought the other would have given them a chance.

This story is spicy, it’s engaging, it’s a little gory and has a sweet little HEA. Everything you could want in a dark romance.

[Crystal Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

How to Kidnap a Fake Date is packed with laugh out loud banter that had me smiling and cracking up from beginning to end.

Maggie has never quite fit into the family business. No matter how hard she tries, she just doesn't have the stomach for it and dreams of creating a life that's entirely her own. She's kind-hearted, awkward, and clumsy, making her impossible not to love. When her father announces his wedding and invites the ex he desperately wants her to marry, Maggie panics and blurts out that she's already dating someone. The only problem? She isn't. Now she's under pressure to find a fake boyfriend before the wedding.

Enter Roman, her neighbor, who unexpectedly finds himself playing the role of both hostage and fake boyfriend. The interactions between these two had me laughing nonstop. Watching Roman navigate a house full of contract killers while trying to keep up the charade was pure entertainment. Even after being kidnapped, he couldn't help but protect Maggie. I loved how he stood up for her whenever her family teased or belittled her, showing a level of compassion and understanding that she desperately needed.

Roman knows he probably shouldn't be falling for Maggie, but he can't stop thinking about her. And while Maggie has always felt like she doesn't quite belong in her family, all she really wants is to make them proud. Their relationship develops in such a heartfelt and entertaining way that I couldn't help but root for them.

This book perfectly balances humor, romance, and chaos. Maggie's lovable personality, Roman's unwavering support, and their hilarious chemistry make this a story that's as swoony as it is laugh out loud funny.

[KarenLou NorthandSouthBlog · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️ For my fellow oddballs, who never quite fit. Have you considered kidnapping a hottie to fake date until he falls for you? No? Me either…⭐️


⭐️ ‘Have to?’ His mouth curves, slow and dangerous. ‘Oh, baby girl, there’s nothing I want more than to make you fall apart.’⭐️


When I tell you I couldn’t put this book down! I read it front to back in a day.

I actually think I was hooked from the dedication (see above) it was funny in a way that would have you clutches at your sides trying to take a breath.

Having not read anything by Effie Campbell before I wasn’t sure what to expect, but when the first page is literally the FMC trying to do kill a guy but it going wrong, I knew this author was going to be added to my list.

Maggie, sweet Maggie, she comes from a long line of contract killers, yet she feels like she is failing as she can’t do it, the sight of blood makes her want to vomit. She is a little quirky and has a somewhat unhealthy obsession with her neighbour. Roman.

Roman is a social influencer, but it’s not all as it seems, he certainly doesn’t practice what he preaches.

But when Maggie needs a date for her father’s wedding she does what any sane person would do…. Plan to kidnap Roman and take him as a fake date.

I loved that although it was a disappear from start to finish that Roman actually saw Maggie for the person she was, not just the crazy neighbour that kidnapped.

Seeing them fall for each other in such an unconventional way was actually the cutest thing ever.

I can’t wait to read more from Effie.

[Samantha · Rating 5 out of 5]

Effie is one of my favourite dark romance authors. As soon as I heard she was writing a dark romcom, I knew I was going to fall in love. 4.5⭐️

This is a hilarious dark romance filled with secrets, lies, a Scottish wedding, unlikely pets, and a killer family 👀🔪Maggie is desperately trying to fit in with her family and join the family business, but she's struggling with this little thing called morals and it seems to be messing everything up 😩 The family wedding is her last chance, but she doesn't have a date! So obviously she does what any sensible person would do and decided to kidnap her next door neighbour. This does put some strain on their neighbourly relationship, but things start to change after spending some time together 🤭
Maggie is just so adorable and I love that she's a little weird and knows it. She doesn't shy away from it, and instead embraces who she is which I think is amazing. Add on the fact that Roman likes her for who she is and encourages her to be no one but herself just makes them the cutest couple 🥹 If there was one thing I wish there was more of, it would have been a little more resistance from Roman for a little longer, but other than that, I absolutely devoured this!

There is the perfect balance of banter and spice from start to finish, and this is a must if you love a romcom with a darker twist. Oh, and the language used throughout this book had me in stitches. Effie definitely needs to write her own dictionary 🤣

A huge thank you to the author for the e-arc. All opinions are my own.

[Claudia, Cmarie927 · Rating 5 out of 5]

I probably shouldn't say this, but... definitely choose this book for the cover!! What you see is absolutely (part of) what makes this story SO good!
This is my first introduction to this author’s creativity, and this will not be my last read!

I sat down intending to just read a few chapters but found myself at 40% in before I knew it, so be prepared to enjoy yourself! Maggie has a complex relationship with her family and cannot seem to live up to the expectations they've set for her. In a cruel twist, being herself is not allowed. Unfortunately this leads her to a decision involving her hot as sin neighbor, some tranquilizers, and a road trip.
See? How can you Not want more!? 😀

Roman is living an influencer's life, and is not prepared for the whirlwind of Maggie's situation. What starts as a situation he cannot imagine and needs to run from, full of imminent danger, turns into a fight to stay in their 'fake' relationship (and not become un-alive). I loved how the storyline weaves in and out of the emotional baggage and familial dramas that are her history, and the sizzling chemistry between these two. I really struggled to stop reading, and I loved their HEA journey.

Based on this read, I look forward to reading more from this author and recommend reading this book.
Fortunate to receive an ARC from Netgalley and the author (thank you) I voluntarily leave my review.

[Melissa · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is completely out there, but I thoroughly enjoyed it! It took me a few chapters to really get into the story, but once I did, I couldn't put it down.

Maggie comes from a long dynasty of contract killers—except she can't kill. No matter how many times she tries, she just can't bring herself to take a life, even when she believes the target deserves it. In a last-ditch effort to stop her father from marrying her off to continue the family legacy, Maggie kidnaps her unsuspecting neighbor and coerces him into attending her father's wedding as her fake boyfriend.

Roman is happily living the influencer lifestyle and is completely unprepared for the chaos that is Maggie's life. What begins as a terrifying situation he desperately wants to escape—one filled with constant danger—slowly evolves into a fight to hold on to their "fake" relationship... and stay alive in the process.

I loved how the story balanced Maggie's emotional baggage and complicated family dynamics with the sizzling chemistry between her and Roman. The romance felt genuine despite the outrageous premise, and I found myself completely invested in their journey. I had a hard time putting this book down, and I absolutely loved watching them earn their happily ever after.

Thank you NetGalley for an advanced copy of this book.

[Second Chapter Books · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was an absolute blast! If you're expecting a traditional dark romance like Haunting Adeline, adjust your expectations... this is much more of a dark romantic comedy, and it absolutely shines because of it.

The premise is completely unhinged in the best way possible. Maggie, an aspiring assassin who has somehow managed a kill count of zero, drugs and kidnaps her grumpy neighbor Roman to pose as her fake boyfriend at her family's wedding... where nearly everyone happens to be a professional killer. The result is nonstop chaos, hilarious banter, plenty of spice, and a romance that had me smiling from beginning to end.

While there are dark elements - murder, kidnapping, stalker vibes, and a family of assassins - the overall tone is funny, witty, and surprisingly sweet rather than heavy or emotionally dark. It reminded me much more of Butcher & Blackbird or Tourist Season than a traditional dark romance. If you enjoy romances with morally gray characters, over-the-top situations, sharp humor, and sizzling chemistry, this is absolutely for you.

I laughed out loud more than once, loved the chemistry between Maggie and Roman, and can't wait to see where this series goes next.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an advance reader copy in exchange for an honest review.

[Grace · Rating 4 out of 5]

4/5 stars
4/5 spice

I'm really surprised at how much I enjoyed this book! It was dark and violent, but sweet and heart-warming at other moments. I'm immediately a bit wary of romance plots that start out with a non-consensual event (like a kidnapping), but I think the author does a great job developing their relationship past this point.

Although their relationship only seriously started after a kidnapping, Roman develops feelings for Maggie and they soon fall for each other for real. The pacing of their romance is great, and their relationship is so sweet, even when the events of the book get darker. It fleshes out the characters really nicely, and sets up for the sequel book with Maggie's sister, Eliza! The spice is spicy and Roman is definitely a stomach-flutter, swoon-worthy MMC.

As a minor trigger warning and mild spoiler, Maggie's ex does allude multiple times to sexually assaulting her, and at one point pushes her against a wall and gropes her. Nothing besides that actually happens, but his intentions are clear at a couple of different points in the book and it's a bit disturbing.

Overall, it was a really fun read and I would recommend it!! Super excited for the follow-up novel and continuing to follow the Hamilton sisters!

[Eden · Rating 5 out of 5]

How to Kidnap a Fake Date brings absolute chaos in the best way possible. This is my first Effie Campbell read and I was laughing throughout with the unhinged craziness this story had to offer. In it, we are introduced to our FMC Maggie. She is awkward yet determined. I found her character to be developed and antics to be endearing. If you are into older characters, she is one to look out for. I love her kindhearted nature and how she didn’t change for her family. An absolute favourite.

The MMC Roman balances Maggie’s character out. He is the poor victim but I love how he makes the best of a bad situation. The connection between them is dynamic and the set up is perfect. Though for a hostage, he is surprisingly calm about the whole situation. Campbell does an excellent job in writing both POVs as readers get stronger insight into his thoughts and motives.

What ties this story together is the plot. There was never a dull moment in this story and as it progresses, there is a sense of danger from Maggie’s world. I felt as though I was on guard as a reader for any surprises from the side characters. By the end of the story, I found myself wanting more of them. If you enjoy Lights out by Navessa Allen, How to Kidnap a Fake Date is the book for you.

[Tairn's hoe · Rating 4 out of 5]

Me through the entire book: 🤣🔪🤣🔪🤣🔪

Please check TW before reading this book

Tropes:

Killer Family
Stalking
Fake dating
Kidnapping
Murder, Gore, Violence
Hea

Book Plot

Maggie is awful at her family business of 'killing' but cannot stomach the sight of blood. For her father's wedding she needs a plus one by hook or by crook. She, kind of ends up taking her neighbor.

My Thoughts: (Contains spoilers)

This was my first ever Effie Campbell's book so I had zero idea about her writing style, I went in completely blind and was laughing at almost every page turn. Maggie is hesitating to kill her target, which costs her and thats when Elisa swoops in. She was so amazing and badass, I was eagerly waiting to know more about her

Roman was complicated. He runs a podcast where he preaches about celibacy but leads a different life than that he preaches.

My favorite was Grandma. She's funny, sarcastic and enjoys calling Roman's bullshit out. Her old age did nothing to diminish her spiritz. The way she kept pestering Roman to move on from his podcast bs was adorable.

Then there was Eddie whom I wish nothing but a slow painful death.

Quick, fun read, should totally checkout if in need of dark comedy

[Sarah · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the digital ARC!

I don't normally read dark romance, and try to avoid it if possible. This one looked palatable to me, more dark comedy? And it very much was.

Maggie is the heir to a family of contract killers, who come from a long line of contract killers. This might sound far-fetched (it is, obviously), but in this world, her family is the type to have done work for governments and other rich/powerful people. The problem is that Maggie can't do it. She's the family shame, and risks being married off to her horrible ex by 30 if she can't complete a contract.

She has to go back up to Scotland to attend her dad's wedding, and she needs a fake date to fend off this horrible ex (honestly, he's very terrible). Maggie decides that she's going to take her hot neighbour, Roman, whether he wants to or not.

As you might imagine, there are lots of shenanigans that ensue here. She gets him to Scotland, but he's neither happy nor willing. When there, however, he sees how her family treats her, and more importantly, he sees how her ex treats her. He might not want to be there, but he also doesn't want to see someone hurt/abused.

Roman is honestly too good. In a real-life situation, he'd have noped out of there as soon as possible. Or at the end, just straight up gone. But this is fiction, and he finds himself falling for Maggie, despite the unusual circumstances. Honestly, he kinda handles everything better than Maggie does.

This was a pretty fun, light read, though I can see it not being for everyone given the content.

[Amanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you Net Galley for this ARC. Maggie is a socially awkward and sweet personal assistant who likes her simple, quirky life in London. Unfortunately, she comes from a family of contract killers and feels disappointed in herself for not being able to do the job. When her Dad tells her that she has attend his wedding and later marry her ex - boyfriend, Eddie, she decides to take matters in her own hands Maggie clumsily drugs and kidnaps her neighbor, Roman, whom she has had a crush on to attend the wedding with her. Roman wakes up, Maggie explains what is happening, and they strike a deal to help each other. As Maggie and Roman get to know each other, they become friends, partake in the wedding festivities, and Roman starts to fall in love with Maggie. This raises the stakes, forcing both Roman and Maggie to decide what matters and is important to them. This was such a good read filled with fun banter and twisted/dark humor. The writing was fast paced, engaging, and had me hooked wanting to read more. I really liked the main characters as they both are relatable, messy, layered, and have good hearts. I especially enjoyed seeing Maggie grow, stand up, and embrace herself for who she is. I also liked how protective, kind, and accepting Roman was to Maggie while slowly fall head over heels. If you want an easy read, filled with dark romantic comedy vibes, and keeps you smiling, this is the perfect book for you.

[Laced In Lit · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley for the arc 🫶
4⭐️
This was my first read by this author so I didnt know what to expect. What i got was a dark, spicy, weird and wonderful yet gory at times short rom com that made for easy reading.
Oddball Maggie should be continuing with the family business like her sister who has to come to her rescue at times. Shes not cut out for the k!lling part but she is definitely a little unhinged and packed with wicked ideas.
Attending her dad's wedding where she is to be forced to wed ex Eddie for business reasons, she has to come up with another plan and fast.
Hunky, sex obsessed neighbour Roman fits the bill. Except instead of just asking him to be her fake date she drugs and kidnap him in this wild and disturbing story.
Unhinged and a little gross at times... 👮‍♂️🚨 prepare yourself!
The pair notice strange events while at the family home and work together to take action in a house full of k!llers - literally!
The pair have tension from the start but very quickly go from him not being interested in Maggie to dry humping.
I would have liked to hear a bit more about Romans background and more granny cos she sounded like a right hoot!

[Moonlit.RomanceReads ✨️ Talia · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a very fun read! It flowed well, the writing and sayings were entertaining - I finished this in 1 day - a definite recommendation for when you need a dark rom-com book!

Maggie was hilarious. Immediately jumping to 'I need to kidnap my hot neighbour, to get away from the problematic ex and the family business' , her crush on her handsome neighbour clearly gave her an easy idea how to deal with the upcoming wedding, messy ex and family expectations.

The whole trip - from the drive up (creepy cop...ew), the actual wedding (coffin and his eye obsession was so funny) and coming back was something else

And Rowan? Seeing him realise this was his cute neighbour that has kidnapped him - as he slowly falls for her? Realising he will do anything for Maggie? Adorable. His gran was also hilarious, giving him the push he needed.

Its nice to see the roles reversed - usually its the guy that is morally grey but this was very well done. After all Rowan wasn't really that much of a saint with the life he led...

Publication date is Jul 30 2026, thank you netgalley and Effie Campbell for the ARC!🫶🏼

[Janelle Kozera · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC Review

Oh my! Maggie is unhinged in the best way possible! I mean, when you come from a family of hired hitmen (and women), you’re the unsuccessful one in the family business, and hate your future betrothed; you have to be a little creative when showing up to your father’s wedding. Hiring an escort like a normal person is so 2000s romcom, in this day and age we kidnap our dates!

If Roman wasn’t already borderline intrigued/smitten, I think he’d have been truly scared shitless, but this man was ready for the wild ride Maggie was throwing his way. He did go unwilling (😉) at first, but he came around fairly quickly.

This is my 3rd Effie Campbell book and I’m hooked. I love the quick read, the great banter, the spice 🥵, the awesome stories, and the smiles her stories bring while reading. I plan to continue exploring her books and sharing her work with others who love to read.

This review is based upon my own opinions and thoughts. Thank you to Effie Campbell and NetGalley for my ARC, in exchange for my honest review.

[Carolina CHC · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is one of the strangest stories I’ve ever read. Honestly, reviewing it is challenging because I’m at a loss for where to begin. The characters’ personalities were contradictory and whimsical, and the plot was over-the-top from the very start.

The black sheep of an old and established family of hired murderers is forced to attend her father’s wedding in Scotland and she needs to take a fake date, no matter what. The obvious victim is the handsome neighbor, but instead of asking, she decides to take him by force. Their journey is filled with unexpected twists, bizarre situations, and gross encounters. The family and friends are all sociopaths, so the sudden onset of a romantic relationship in the middle of it all was difficult to comprehend.

At the end, I was left feeling confused about how I ended up picking this book and reading it all the way through, while enjoying a few of the chapters. It still puzzles me.

Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and the publisher for the ARC. This is my honest and voluntary review.

[Charlotte Mooney · Rating 4 out of 5]

Maggie is the oldest heir to a family of contract killers, raised to follow in her parents footsteps. Only Maggie isn't quite inclined to take a life, she's not only failed once but multiple times. If she can't join the family business she'll be forced to marry a man who just happens to be her awful ex.

With the timeline closing in, Maggie invents a fake boyfriend in the shape of her neighbour Roman. Wether he likes it or not.

Roman was practically a saint to finally go along with her scheme but it didn't happen until Maggie had forced him to Scotland and he literally couldn't escape. Despite his outward personality flaws he presents on social media, Roman is as soft as a marshmallow but his past has his guard up except for his gran.

How To Kidnap A Fake Date is a laugh out loud, over the top read. It's full of crude humour and graphic violence. The spice was graphic and the humour was dark but HILARIOUS!

I genuinely can't wait to see what Maggies siblings get upto in future releases.

Thank you so much Effie and NetGalley for the ARC x

[Kathleen Hoffman · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to Boldwood Books and NetGalley for the ARC of this book. This was a raunchy good time. Gotta be honest, I was surprised at how much I thoroughly enjoyed this. The premise of a woman kidnapping her hot neighbor ending up with the two of them falling in love… well, I was a bit skeptical. It sounded like a fun time all the same however, and I’m happy to say it exceeded my expectations in the best ways.

I laughed hysterically throughout most of this book. The inner dialogue of both the FMC and MMC was fabulous. The whole kidnapping scene had me laughing out loud and oddly picturing Leonardo DiCaprio on quaaludes. Then, you have the bird. I don’t know why he ended up being such a charming character, but all the same, I was here for it.

I rooted for Maggie all the way through and Roman was definitely a great MMC… the mouth on this man…. 😱. I also was a big fan of the supporting characters and can’t wait for Eliza’s book.

Overall, I just really enjoyed this one. It was cute, witty, hot, and left me with a warm fuzzy feeling in my chest. 4 stars.