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The Viper
One night turns into obsession.
From the moment I saw Autumn dancing in the bar, gravity yanked me to her like a magnet.
Completely mesmerized by her green eyes, her hot pink hair, and nerdy glasses, I approached her and demanded a dance.
Then a dance turned into a one-night stand.
In that one night, I couldn't deny the ignited fire between us.
In that one night, I fell in love.
Call it fate, call it destiny, but I knew she was mine.
Mine to love.
Mine to conquer.
Mine to possess.
I know she feels the passion between us, but she's in denial.
So there is only one thing for me to do.
Steal her away and make her see that she's in love with me too
From the moment I saw Autumn dancing in the bar, gravity yanked me to her like a magnet.
Completely mesmerized by her green eyes, her hot pink hair, and nerdy glasses, I approached her and demanded a dance.
Then a dance turned into a one-night stand.
In that one night, I couldn't deny the ignited fire between us.
In that one night, I fell in love.
Call it fate, call it destiny, but I knew she was mine.
Mine to love.
Mine to conquer.
Mine to possess.
I know she feels the passion between us, but she's in denial.
So there is only one thing for me to do.
Steal her away and make her see that she's in love with me too
116 pages, ebook
First published January 1, 2020
17 people are currently reading
182 people want to read
About the author
J.M. Stoneback
17 books210 followersJ.M. writes new adult dark psychological romance, exploring the minds of obsessive, morally complex heroes. She holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology and crafts stories where every villain deserves a happy ending.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 93 reviews
March 30, 2022
Upon seeing her in a bar, Viper orchestrates a forced meeting. He instantly knew Autum was his and set about putting all the pieces into place.
This is a fast-paced, instalove story with some grey themes. I enjoyed the storyline and the direction the story took. Viper had the makings of a perfect OTT alphahole, but lost some of his edge as the story progressed. Likewise, the flow was a bit clunky and disjointed at times, but it was still an enjoyable quickie.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2
Burn: 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Darkness: 🖤
Heat: 🌶🌶🌶
🗂 Genre: Dark Romance
✨ Tropes: Kidnåp-esque, Age Gap (>10 Years), Instalove, Stalkėr, Sėxual Assäult (Not by H)
⛔️ Warning: This book may cause blushing, squirming, combusting panties, and/or self-care.
⚠️ Safety Squad: There are several triggers. If you have any hesitation, check the warnings before diving in. Otherwise, blind is best!!
📣 Type: The Viper is part of the Natural Born KiIIers series of interconnected standalones.
🛑 Be Advised: My Goodreads shelves are … explicit in both senses. As such, they could be considered spoiler-y.
This is a fast-paced, instalove story with some grey themes. I enjoyed the storyline and the direction the story took. Viper had the makings of a perfect OTT alphahole, but lost some of his edge as the story progressed. Likewise, the flow was a bit clunky and disjointed at times, but it was still an enjoyable quickie.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2
Burn: 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Darkness: 🖤
Heat: 🌶🌶🌶
🗂 Genre: Dark Romance
✨ Tropes: Kidnåp-esque, Age Gap (>10 Years), Instalove, Stalkėr, Sėxual Assäult (Not by H)
⛔️ Warning: This book may cause blushing, squirming, combusting panties, and/or self-care.
⚠️ Safety Squad: There are several triggers. If you have any hesitation, check the warnings before diving in. Otherwise, blind is best!!
📣 Type: The Viper is part of the Natural Born KiIIers series of interconnected standalones.
🛑 Be Advised: My Goodreads shelves are … explicit in both senses. As such, they could be considered spoiler-y.
March 29, 2022
Sounded good but poorly executed.
DNF @ 45%
I was expecting a dark stalker/captive romance, but this fell far below the mark. The writing was very rough and choppy. The thoughts or actions from one paragraph or sentence to the next many times didn't follow a natural progression leading to the disjointed reading experience. Much of the writing was too flat and blunt. It needed more descriptors and polish, and that's saying something coming from someone like me who hates purple prose. Lastly the writing and story were very juvenile. Neither the H or h's actions or thoughts were realistic. I did snicker at the line "he sucked me like a jolly rancher" but cringed at "I melted like cheese."
Even though this is an ARC review, I will always shoot you straight. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
DNF @ 45%
I was expecting a dark stalker/captive romance, but this fell far below the mark. The writing was very rough and choppy. The thoughts or actions from one paragraph or sentence to the next many times didn't follow a natural progression leading to the disjointed reading experience. Much of the writing was too flat and blunt. It needed more descriptors and polish, and that's saying something coming from someone like me who hates purple prose. Lastly the writing and story were very juvenile. Neither the H or h's actions or thoughts were realistic. I did snicker at the line "he sucked me like a jolly rancher" but cringed at "I melted like cheese."
Even though this is an ARC review, I will always shoot you straight. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 31, 2022
3.75
The Viper is a short insta-love read about a hitman and a girl who studies serial killers
But let me say it's not a dark romance because it focus mainly on their relationship and not on the killing.
The story started about great.
It sunk me in after reading just few words and it got me excited.
I wanted to know more...
I immediately fell for Viper and the way he act around Autumn.
And well, I was not ready for his dirty mouth 🥵🥵🥵
But mostly i loved his vulnerabilities, in sucha contrast with his job.
But eventually the excitement slowed down a bit after the first part.
Autumn' insecurities, due to her background, made her kinda annoying and it "ruined" a bit the story for me.
I couldn't really understand her sometimes.
And to be honest it caused me many doubts when it came to rate the book.
So I think it's:
• 4 ★ for the first part;
• 5 ★ for Viper;
• 3.5 ★ for the second part;
• 2 ★ for Autumn 😅
It's a good read nevertheless;
and the author got me curious about some side characters, so i'm gonna wait for their stories.
The Viper is a short insta-love read about a hitman and a girl who studies serial killers
But let me say it's not a dark romance because it focus mainly on their relationship and not on the killing.
The story started about great.
It sunk me in after reading just few words and it got me excited.
I wanted to know more...
I immediately fell for Viper and the way he act around Autumn.
And well, I was not ready for his dirty mouth 🥵🥵🥵
But mostly i loved his vulnerabilities, in sucha contrast with his job.
But eventually the excitement slowed down a bit after the first part.
Autumn' insecurities, due to her background, made her kinda annoying and it "ruined" a bit the story for me.
I couldn't really understand her sometimes.
And to be honest it caused me many doubts when it came to rate the book.
So I think it's:
• 4 ★ for the first part;
• 5 ★ for Viper;
• 3.5 ★ for the second part;
• 2 ★ for Autumn 😅
It's a good read nevertheless;
and the author got me curious about some side characters, so i'm gonna wait for their stories.
March 24, 2022
I was enjoying this story for most part of it then the h just brought it down. She ruined the rest of the book for me.
Viper I swear that man was everything!!! He was a hitman who is sprung for Autumn when he meets her on her birthday it was suppose to be a one night thing but he got attached and made sure she was safe so yes he stalked and watches over her he was upfront after that first night he told her his job!!!
Like points my man for not lying, as for Autumn I liked her at first her father was a serial killer (he dead)so she study that she was alil hesitant on dating Viper. What made me blah for her.. her boss sexually assulted her he kissed her and almost shoved his dick in her Mouth she fought back and she didn't wanna tell Viper but her friend told him..what did she think her hitman boyfriend was going to do leave the man no he killed him and she gets upset and breaks up with him? FOR KILLING HER SA?!?!? LIKE WTF!!!
So they were broken up for awhile because of that I'm sorry Viper deserved better
..he even wrote her a note saying sorry and he has Dyslexia 🥺🥺🥺
I wanna read Fox.. but Idk because I'm not feeling Raven she doesn't deserve him.
No ow/tiny om drama (h boss), no cheating, slight secondary character, drama, Sexy times, virgin gal and no real info on him
Recommend-maybe
Cover-⭐️⭐️⭐️
Heat level-🌶🌶🌶
Instalove
21h/33H
Age gap
Pubishments
Anal play
Orgasm denial
Voyagerism
No condom
Seperation 3 weeks
Dyslexia (H has it)
Almost Sexual assaulted
Hea
Epilogue
Viper I swear that man was everything!!! He was a hitman who is sprung for Autumn when he meets her on her birthday it was suppose to be a one night thing but he got attached and made sure she was safe so yes he stalked and watches over her he was upfront after that first night he told her his job!!!
Like points my man for not lying, as for Autumn I liked her at first her father was a serial killer (he dead)so she study that she was alil hesitant on dating Viper. What made me blah for her.. her boss sexually assulted her he kissed her and almost shoved his dick in her Mouth she fought back and she didn't wanna tell Viper but her friend told him..what did she think her hitman boyfriend was going to do leave the man no he killed him and she gets upset and breaks up with him? FOR KILLING HER SA?!?!? LIKE WTF!!!
So they were broken up for awhile because of that I'm sorry Viper deserved better
..he even wrote her a note saying sorry and he has Dyslexia 🥺🥺🥺
I wanna read Fox.. but Idk because I'm not feeling Raven she doesn't deserve him.
No ow/tiny om drama (h boss), no cheating, slight secondary character, drama, Sexy times, virgin gal and no real info on him
Recommend-maybe
Cover-⭐️⭐️⭐️
Heat level-🌶🌶🌶
Instalove
21h/33H
Age gap
Pubishments
Anal play
Orgasm denial
Voyagerism
No condom
Seperation 3 weeks
Dyslexia (H has it)
Almost Sexual assaulted
Hea
Epilogue
March 31, 2022
Viper has many enticing elements- age gap, dark and broody hitman hero, loads of steam, and fast paced story telling. Two captivating leads made it all the more delicious. Though, I knew going in as a novella that this story would be heavy on sexy and instalove and lighter on broader story- page real estate is limited, after all.
There is a great and intriguing storyline at the beginning- characters who are interesting, have complicated and dynamic backgrounds, and loads of baggage to explore. So the story grabbed me early on, even though it relied heavily on the instal love obsesion of our leading man Viper. The age gap, the danger, all great. And then it just fizzled out for me a bit- I kept hoping for a bit more substance to their chemistry and connection, but we just have a lot of instalove that is more like instalove. It’s yummy- the steam is there. And Viper certainly was my kind of alpha, edgy hero. Our heroine felt a bit less compelling- perhaps she’s just a bit to amenable about the whole thing? Ultimately I felt because of it we didn’t know her- this is certainly Viper’s story.
All in all, fun and sexy, just calibrate expectations when it comes to depth of connection. Would love to read more of this world.
There is a great and intriguing storyline at the beginning- characters who are interesting, have complicated and dynamic backgrounds, and loads of baggage to explore. So the story grabbed me early on, even though it relied heavily on the instal love obsesion of our leading man Viper. The age gap, the danger, all great. And then it just fizzled out for me a bit- I kept hoping for a bit more substance to their chemistry and connection, but we just have a lot of instalove that is more like instalove. It’s yummy- the steam is there. And Viper certainly was my kind of alpha, edgy hero. Our heroine felt a bit less compelling- perhaps she’s just a bit to amenable about the whole thing? Ultimately I felt because of it we didn’t know her- this is certainly Viper’s story.
All in all, fun and sexy, just calibrate expectations when it comes to depth of connection. Would love to read more of this world.
March 26, 2022
Story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Trope: instalove
Angst: 😱
Smexy: 🔥🔥🔥
Viper sees Autumn across the dance floor and decides she’s the girl for him. He may just need to quasi-kidnap her to convince her 🤷🏻♀️😂😂. Viper is a super fast paced instalove novella with some super hot smexy times. Viper was the typical OTT alphalicious hero. If cavemen heroes are your jam, you won’t be disappointed ♥️.
The Viper is the first book in A Natural Born Killer series by JM Stoneback, but is a complete standalone. It is written in first person, from dual perspective.
Trope: instalove
Angst: 😱
Smexy: 🔥🔥🔥
Viper sees Autumn across the dance floor and decides she’s the girl for him. He may just need to quasi-kidnap her to convince her 🤷🏻♀️😂😂. Viper is a super fast paced instalove novella with some super hot smexy times. Viper was the typical OTT alphalicious hero. If cavemen heroes are your jam, you won’t be disappointed ♥️.
The Viper is the first book in A Natural Born Killer series by JM Stoneback, but is a complete standalone. It is written in first person, from dual perspective.
March 30, 2022
A guy who won’t accept “no” 😂😂
Story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Trope: instalove
Angst: 😱
Smexy: 🔥🔥🔥
Viper sees Autumn across the dance floor and decides she’s the girl for him. He may just need to quasi-kidnap her to convince her 🤷🏻♀️😂😂. Viper is a super fast paced instalove novella with some super hot smexy times. Viper was the typical OTT alphalicious hero. If cavemen heroes are your jam, you won’t be disappointed ♥️.
The Viper is the first book in A Natural Born Killer series by JM Stoneback, but is a complete standalone. It is written in first person, from dual perspective.
Story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Trope: instalove
Angst: 😱
Smexy: 🔥🔥🔥
Viper sees Autumn across the dance floor and decides she’s the girl for him. He may just need to quasi-kidnap her to convince her 🤷🏻♀️😂😂. Viper is a super fast paced instalove novella with some super hot smexy times. Viper was the typical OTT alphalicious hero. If cavemen heroes are your jam, you won’t be disappointed ♥️.
The Viper is the first book in A Natural Born Killer series by JM Stoneback, but is a complete standalone. It is written in first person, from dual perspective.
March 31, 2022
3.5 stars
The Viper by J.M. Stoneback is an age gap romantic suspense with loads of sexy times. This is an instalove and instalust romance between a hitman and a sassy girl whose parents were serial killers and who wants to make podcast on serial killers. Ironic? May be. But this strange background actually helped them to bond.
Autumn's path collides with Viper when she was out in a nightclub with her friend. They feel an instant chemistry and have a wild night together. It was supposed to be one time but Viper becomes obsessed with her. She is exposed to his profession as a hitman and she is now in his world. She thinks she can accept it but her past stops her sometimes.
I am not a fan of insta love or lust. This story moved a very fast pace without giving me a chance of feeling for them. The chemistry is definitely here. The steamy parts were delish. I loved Viper. He is the kind of antihero who will make you swoon. Alpha. Dangerous. Protective. Possessive. He was open about his life and made his best effort to fit Autumn in his edgy world. On the other side, Autumn appeared a bit impulsive or flighty to me. She took the hitman part and the luxurious lifestyle so easily. She adjusted to their filthy games fast. But she ran away over something that hurt Viper badly. She can be full of contradictions. I wanted to see a bit more of the emotional side.
I reviewed an early copy voluntarily
The Viper by J.M. Stoneback is an age gap romantic suspense with loads of sexy times. This is an instalove and instalust romance between a hitman and a sassy girl whose parents were serial killers and who wants to make podcast on serial killers. Ironic? May be. But this strange background actually helped them to bond.
Autumn's path collides with Viper when she was out in a nightclub with her friend. They feel an instant chemistry and have a wild night together. It was supposed to be one time but Viper becomes obsessed with her. She is exposed to his profession as a hitman and she is now in his world. She thinks she can accept it but her past stops her sometimes.
I am not a fan of insta love or lust. This story moved a very fast pace without giving me a chance of feeling for them. The chemistry is definitely here. The steamy parts were delish. I loved Viper. He is the kind of antihero who will make you swoon. Alpha. Dangerous. Protective. Possessive. He was open about his life and made his best effort to fit Autumn in his edgy world. On the other side, Autumn appeared a bit impulsive or flighty to me. She took the hitman part and the luxurious lifestyle so easily. She adjusted to their filthy games fast. But she ran away over something that hurt Viper badly. She can be full of contradictions. I wanted to see a bit more of the emotional side.
I reviewed an early copy voluntarily
March 29, 2022
OVERALL 4.5 STARS
Writing: 4.5 Stars
Story line: 4 Stars
Steam: 4.5 Stars
Hero: 4.5 Stars
Heroine: 4 Stars
*QUICK ONE-LINER OPINION*
This is the first book I read by this author and darn the hero's dirty mouth! I am definitely looking forward to more books in this series! :)
SAFETY
• H (Hero): Devilte Zunino "Viper" (aged 32)
• h (heroine): Autumn Spencer (aged 21)
• Steam level: High
• Descriptive sex: Yes
• Safe sex: Yes
• OM (Other Men)/OW (Other Women) drama: No
• Sexual acts with OM/OW: Yes
• Sex scenes with OM/OW: No
• Virgin: heroine
• Insta-love/attraction: Yes
• Push/Pull: Yes
• Separation: Yes
• Angst: No
• Possible Triggers: Violence/gore, Attempted sexual assault, Killing
BOOK INFO
• Type: Standalone Novella (approx. 30k words)
• Genre: Dark Contemporary Romance
• Tropes: Alpha J/P Hero, Age gap, Insta-love, Contract killer
• POV (Point Of View): First person - Dual
• Ending: HEA
DISCLAIMER
This IS NOT an ARC review.
*Legend:
ABO = Alpha-Beta-Omega / ARC = Advance Reader Copy / BJ = blow job / dub-con = dubious consent / FTB = Fade To Black / H = Hero / h = heroine / HEA = Happily Ever After / HFN = Happy For Now / J/P = Jealous/Possessive / MC = Main Characters / non-con = non-consensual / OM = Other Men / OTT = Over-the-top / OW = Other Women / POV = Point Of View
Writing: 4.5 Stars
Story line: 4 Stars
Steam: 4.5 Stars
Hero: 4.5 Stars
Heroine: 4 Stars
*QUICK ONE-LINER OPINION*
This is the first book I read by this author and darn the hero's dirty mouth! I am definitely looking forward to more books in this series! :)
SAFETY
• H (Hero): Devilte Zunino "Viper" (aged 32)
• h (heroine): Autumn Spencer (aged 21)
• Steam level: High
• Descriptive sex: Yes
• Safe sex: Yes
• OM (Other Men)/OW (Other Women) drama: No
• Sexual acts with OM/OW: Yes
• Sex scenes with OM/OW: No
• Virgin: heroine
• Insta-love/attraction: Yes
• Push/Pull: Yes
• Separation: Yes
• Angst: No
• Possible Triggers: Violence/gore, Attempted sexual assault, Killing
BOOK INFO
• Type: Standalone Novella (approx. 30k words)
• Genre: Dark Contemporary Romance
• Tropes: Alpha J/P Hero, Age gap, Insta-love, Contract killer
• POV (Point Of View): First person - Dual
• Ending: HEA
DISCLAIMER
This IS NOT an ARC review.
*Legend:
ABO = Alpha-Beta-Omega / ARC = Advance Reader Copy / BJ = blow job / dub-con = dubious consent / FTB = Fade To Black / H = Hero / h = heroine / HEA = Happily Ever After / HFN = Happy For Now / J/P = Jealous/Possessive / MC = Main Characters / non-con = non-consensual / OM = Other Men / OTT = Over-the-top / OW = Other Women / POV = Point Of View
June 4, 2022
Haha haha
I love Insta love so the beginning was so good! Rich, suited up good looking guy comes into the bar where the h is at and bam. Hes in it.
Then hahaha hahaha Lordy lord lord........what was the bullshiet that happened after? It was like a car crash I couldn't look away from. The writing was like something a jacked up 5th grader would write for creative writing.
Wow. Don't believe me? See my highlights 😂😂😂😬
I love Insta love so the beginning was so good! Rich, suited up good looking guy comes into the bar where the h is at and bam. Hes in it.
Then hahaha hahaha Lordy lord lord........what was the bullshiet that happened after? It was like a car crash I couldn't look away from. The writing was like something a jacked up 5th grader would write for creative writing.
Wow. Don't believe me? See my highlights 😂😂😂😬
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 19, 2023
Title: The Viper
Series: Standalone
Author: J.M. Stoneback
Genre: Contemporary Dark Romance
Tropes/Keywords: Stalker, Possessive MMC, Virgin FMC, Hit Man MMC, TSTL FMC
Pages: 116
Steam: Open Door
Spice: 🌶🌶/5
Star Rating: ⭐️/5
Review:
This was dumb AF. She knew he was a hitman but didn't want him to take someone life just because they hurt her.
WTF Quote:
"He grips a fistful of my hair, pulls me back, and kisses me deeply. Everything about this man makes me melt like cheese."
CW/TW: FMC SA'd on page, MMC kills the guy
Series: Standalone
Author: J.M. Stoneback
Genre: Contemporary Dark Romance
Tropes/Keywords: Stalker, Possessive MMC, Virgin FMC, Hit Man MMC, TSTL FMC
Pages: 116
Steam: Open Door
Spice: 🌶🌶/5
Star Rating: ⭐️/5
Review:
This was dumb AF. She knew he was a hitman but didn't want him to take someone life just because they hurt her.
WTF Quote:
"He grips a fistful of my hair, pulls me back, and kisses me deeply. Everything about this man makes me melt like cheese."
CW/TW: FMC SA'd on page, MMC kills the guy
March 31, 2022
What is an obsessed possessive hit man to do when he lays eyes on the the girl of his dreams dancing in a bar. He does what ever over the top alpha man does and claims he in every way possible. Imagine his surprise when he finds that the woman of his dreams is everything he has ever wanted and though he could never have.
Autumn is a sassy strong heroine who has a colorful background. She loves to read and loves anything that has to do with true crime especially serial killers. When she meets Viper she definitely is not expecting the man she meets. He is everything she has always wanted, but has a few insecurities afraid he is too good to be true.
This is a fast paced story that flows really well. You will find yourself immersed ed in the story form the first page to the last.
Autumn is a sassy strong heroine who has a colorful background. She loves to read and loves anything that has to do with true crime especially serial killers. When she meets Viper she definitely is not expecting the man she meets. He is everything she has always wanted, but has a few insecurities afraid he is too good to be true.
This is a fast paced story that flows really well. You will find yourself immersed ed in the story form the first page to the last.
March 12, 2022
I was not prepared for Vipers dirty mouth right out the gate 😂😂
Autumn is out for her 21st birthday at a rundown bar. When she gets on the dance floor, she meets Viper. Tall, dark, dangerous and dirty mouthed hottie.
As soon as he sees her, Viper needs to have her and make her his. He lives a very lonely life as a hit man, and doesnt let anyone close. He cant resist Autumn though.
Even with the 12 yr age gap, these 2 have an instant connection. When Autumn admits to being a virgin, she asks Viper to teach her how to do it,which of course he says yes to. It's so much more than just sex between them though.
JM Stoneback ALWAYS brings the spice with her books! I love this book, and i can't wait for more in the Natural Born Killer series!! **fingers crossed for Fox next 😂**
Autumn is out for her 21st birthday at a rundown bar. When she gets on the dance floor, she meets Viper. Tall, dark, dangerous and dirty mouthed hottie.
As soon as he sees her, Viper needs to have her and make her his. He lives a very lonely life as a hit man, and doesnt let anyone close. He cant resist Autumn though.
Even with the 12 yr age gap, these 2 have an instant connection. When Autumn admits to being a virgin, she asks Viper to teach her how to do it,which of course he says yes to. It's so much more than just sex between them though.
JM Stoneback ALWAYS brings the spice with her books! I love this book, and i can't wait for more in the Natural Born Killer series!! **fingers crossed for Fox next 😂**
March 31, 2022
Viper is a hitman and a foul mouthed one at that. When he meets Autumn one night at a club he can’t seem to leave her alone. He goes all alpha protective over her. She is obsessed with serial killers. She has a dark family history and she never thought she would find someone who would love her for who she is. What are you cute when you put a virgin who is obsessed with serial killers with a hitman with a protective streak protective streak together- a great read.
Want to Read
March 19, 2022💝
ARC received via Booksprout in exchange for an honest review.
💝
March 30, 2022
I received a copy of this book from the publisher/author to review for Stephanie's Book Reports.
From the moment I saw Autumn dancing in the bar, gravity yanked me to her like a magnet. Completely mesmerized by green eyes, her hot pink hair, and nerdy glasses, I approached her and demanded a dance. Then a dance turned into a one-night stand. In that one night, I couldn't deny the ignited fire between us. In that one night, I fell in love. Call it fate, call it destiny, but I knew she was mine. Mine to love. Mine to conquer. Mine to possess. I know she feels that passion between us, but she is in denial. So there is only one thing for me to do. Steal her away and make her see that she's in love with me too.
The Viper is the first book in the Natural Born Killer Series from J.M. Stoneback. It is a dark stalker, age gap romance. You will want to heed the warnings in the beginning of the book because it might contains some triggers for some readers.
On Autumn's twenty first birthday she and Viper meet in a bar where she is celebrating. This was probably the best birthday night she has ever had in her life and that is all because of Viper. A mysterious, dark and dangerous hitman who is after this night is super protective of Autumn. The girls is a true crime buff and has a dark past. These two hold very similar pasts and they are instantly drawn to one another. However when some things begin to come to light it puts a damper on the relationship they were builder and Viper who is actually in love with Autumn is not going to let her get away and his only option is to Stalker her and if that doesn't work he will take her and make her see that they were meant to be together. I liked this book. It held my attention and I didn't lay it down to may times. I really liked Viper and Autumn and was rooting for them though the entire book.
From the moment I saw Autumn dancing in the bar, gravity yanked me to her like a magnet. Completely mesmerized by green eyes, her hot pink hair, and nerdy glasses, I approached her and demanded a dance. Then a dance turned into a one-night stand. In that one night, I couldn't deny the ignited fire between us. In that one night, I fell in love. Call it fate, call it destiny, but I knew she was mine. Mine to love. Mine to conquer. Mine to possess. I know she feels that passion between us, but she is in denial. So there is only one thing for me to do. Steal her away and make her see that she's in love with me too.
The Viper is the first book in the Natural Born Killer Series from J.M. Stoneback. It is a dark stalker, age gap romance. You will want to heed the warnings in the beginning of the book because it might contains some triggers for some readers.
On Autumn's twenty first birthday she and Viper meet in a bar where she is celebrating. This was probably the best birthday night she has ever had in her life and that is all because of Viper. A mysterious, dark and dangerous hitman who is after this night is super protective of Autumn. The girls is a true crime buff and has a dark past. These two hold very similar pasts and they are instantly drawn to one another. However when some things begin to come to light it puts a damper on the relationship they were builder and Viper who is actually in love with Autumn is not going to let her get away and his only option is to Stalker her and if that doesn't work he will take her and make her see that they were meant to be together. I liked this book. It held my attention and I didn't lay it down to may times. I really liked Viper and Autumn and was rooting for them though the entire book.
March 27, 2022
Not Sure About This One...
In the author's note, J.M. Stoneback says this isn't a dark book, which it isn't, however she seemed to try the toe the line with the darkness. There definitely are some dark subjects along the storyline and had she taken the darker road, this could have been an angsty, different read for me.
Autumn and Viper at a bar one night, he is instantly drawn to her and her to him I suppose, it's not like she really had a choice. I wasn't sure about either of these characters and the love at warp speed didn't help the situation. Autumn is a kid, she may be twenty one, however acts like she's sixteen, no parents and this thirty two year old man swoops in and takes over her life. She was a little girl lost to me, so when the one word I hate in steamy scenes was said and I pretty much checked out.
The book written descriptively which I appreciate, however it felt like the author was out of her comfort zone and it took on a cheesy vibe as we went on. While I like a novella, this wasn't enough pages to develop a story like Autumn and Viper's which left it feeling choppy. The Viper reads as a standalone, with the next book set up.
Reviewed for Renee Entress's Blog.
In the author's note, J.M. Stoneback says this isn't a dark book, which it isn't, however she seemed to try the toe the line with the darkness. There definitely are some dark subjects along the storyline and had she taken the darker road, this could have been an angsty, different read for me.
Autumn and Viper at a bar one night, he is instantly drawn to her and her to him I suppose, it's not like she really had a choice. I wasn't sure about either of these characters and the love at warp speed didn't help the situation. Autumn is a kid, she may be twenty one, however acts like she's sixteen, no parents and this thirty two year old man swoops in and takes over her life. She was a little girl lost to me, so when the one word I hate in steamy scenes was said and I pretty much checked out.
The book written descriptively which I appreciate, however it felt like the author was out of her comfort zone and it took on a cheesy vibe as we went on. While I like a novella, this wasn't enough pages to develop a story like Autumn and Viper's which left it feeling choppy. The Viper reads as a standalone, with the next book set up.
Reviewed for Renee Entress's Blog.
March 31, 2022
I enjoyed his story overall. This is insta-love between Viper, a hitman and Autumn, a 21 year old who's unsure of her future. They both have unusual backgrounds which help them bond.
Viper was a brilliant character, he was upfront about what he does and what he feels for Autumn. He was stalker-ish but in a really "I want to look for you, and take care of you" kind of way. However Autumn just fell flat for me. She meets Viper on her 21st birthday, and just happens to lose her virginity to him. Thinking he'll be a one-night stand, but then she goes from virgin to sex-all-the-time, anything goes in such a short space of time. She embraces Vipers job and luxury lifestyle, but seems to drift in her own job and goals for the future.
She definitely showed her immaturity at times, especially over her bookstore boss, where she refused to hold him accountable but then got mad when Viper got involved.
I know this is an insta-love but I feel it would have benefited from being longer as I needed to see more from both characters, and I think it would have also made the story flow a little better, it just felt like it jumped around a bit.
Viper was a brilliant character, he was upfront about what he does and what he feels for Autumn. He was stalker-ish but in a really "I want to look for you, and take care of you" kind of way. However Autumn just fell flat for me. She meets Viper on her 21st birthday, and just happens to lose her virginity to him. Thinking he'll be a one-night stand, but then she goes from virgin to sex-all-the-time, anything goes in such a short space of time. She embraces Vipers job and luxury lifestyle, but seems to drift in her own job and goals for the future.
She definitely showed her immaturity at times, especially over her bookstore boss, where she refused to hold him accountable but then got mad when Viper got involved.
I know this is an insta-love but I feel it would have benefited from being longer as I needed to see more from both characters, and I think it would have also made the story flow a little better, it just felt like it jumped around a bit.
March 10, 2022
Autumn is out for her 21st birthday and she bumps in to this guy, they end up agreeing to do a one night stand. Viper realizes that she is everything he has ever wanted, but he is always afraid that having a relationship will be trouble cause he is a hit man and has enemies. When they get back to his apartment, she tells him she is a virgin. With that he knew that was it she was end game. The next day he has his friend watching over her at her job and then comes in and when she gets off tells her she's moving in with him. What happens when everyones past comes out? What happens when the job becomes too much?
This was a really fun novella. It's a fast quick insta love with a hit man. I like Viper and how protective he was about her and how he wants to make sure she is happy. When something happens between her boss and her, I appreciate what he does for her. This novella reminded me of a Jessa Kane novella fun fast and virgin.
This was a really fun novella. It's a fast quick insta love with a hit man. I like Viper and how protective he was about her and how he wants to make sure she is happy. When something happens between her boss and her, I appreciate what he does for her. This novella reminded me of a Jessa Kane novella fun fast and virgin.
March 23, 2022
Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶🌶
An insta love pace fast story with a few 🌶 scenes. The first half of the book I was in love, but by 60-70% I was struggling to finish. I pushed through to the end to at least see two characters I love get their HEA.
Autumn works at a book store during the day, and in her free time has a pod cast about serial killers. I’m all for honesty and acceptance, but after she found out what Viper did for a living she 100% accepted it. It was weird to me for her to be so calm that he kills people for a killing.
Viper never thought he’d find love with his hectic hit man lifestyle. He knew the moment he saw Autumn that he’d do anything it takes to keep her. I love a man like Viper. He’s dominate, but also so tender. Absolutely loved his character!
It had a great plot, but some parts of it I was hoping for more. I wish there was a little more mystery surrounding his job. I will be following this author because I’m definitely interesting in seeing some of the other characters stories too.
I received an ARC for an honest review
Spice: 🌶🌶
An insta love pace fast story with a few 🌶 scenes. The first half of the book I was in love, but by 60-70% I was struggling to finish. I pushed through to the end to at least see two characters I love get their HEA.
Autumn works at a book store during the day, and in her free time has a pod cast about serial killers. I’m all for honesty and acceptance, but after she found out what Viper did for a living she 100% accepted it. It was weird to me for her to be so calm that he kills people for a killing.
Viper never thought he’d find love with his hectic hit man lifestyle. He knew the moment he saw Autumn that he’d do anything it takes to keep her. I love a man like Viper. He’s dominate, but also so tender. Absolutely loved his character!
It had a great plot, but some parts of it I was hoping for more. I wish there was a little more mystery surrounding his job. I will be following this author because I’m definitely interesting in seeing some of the other characters stories too.
I received an ARC for an honest review
March 30, 2022
This is the first in a new series and is Viper and Autumn’s story. Viper is tall, dark, dangerous, and a hit man for hire for the mob, but he leads a lonely life with many enemies. When Autumn is out celebrating her 21st she is dancing and Viper is instantly drawn to her, which results in them having a 1-night stand, which develops into more. Viper will do whatever he must to protect Autumn and keep her safe, and the chemistry between them is combustible and undeniable, and they complement each other perfectly. This is a fast-paced quick read novella, which is dark, raw, gritty, intense, and with intrigue, passion, drama, challenges, family, and love, which leads to an addictive page turner. I look forward to reading more from this talented author.
March 14, 2022
Viper and Autumn meet at a bar on her 21st Birthday. They go back to his place and it’s pretty much instant connection insane chemistry from the start. Autumn is quirky and a little different but has a spunky personality. Viper is dark and dangerous with a killer of a job. From the outside you think they are completely different but in reality they have a lot in common. This was a quick read with a lot going on. We have a instant relationship, family drama and some crazy work drama from both characters. I really enjoyed the fast paced writing style and look forward to reading more books by this author.
March 18, 2022
4.5 Stars
Insta love between a hitman and girl obsessed with serial killers. These two are explosive and waste no time in becoming what the other wants and needs. Viper tells Autumn exactly who he is immediately and she doesn't bat an eye. She doesn't care. However, when something threatens her and he takes matters into his own hands, she wonders if loving him is what is right for her.
I just wish it was longer. What they go through, how they feel, I wanted more. It's intense and powerful. I really enjoyed it. Other characters make me excited for this series as well. I especially can't wait to see what happens with Autumns best friend.
Insta love between a hitman and girl obsessed with serial killers. These two are explosive and waste no time in becoming what the other wants and needs. Viper tells Autumn exactly who he is immediately and she doesn't bat an eye. She doesn't care. However, when something threatens her and he takes matters into his own hands, she wonders if loving him is what is right for her.
I just wish it was longer. What they go through, how they feel, I wanted more. It's intense and powerful. I really enjoyed it. Other characters make me excited for this series as well. I especially can't wait to see what happens with Autumns best friend.
March 19, 2022
Equal parts dark and delicious! I devoured this read in one sitting; it is a novella and a series starter for The Natural Born Killers Series. I love Viper and Autumn’s story. They both come from kinda similar childhoods? Hers is more unique and peaked my interest to no end!! You will have to read to see what I mean :)
He is a hitman for hire with the mob and she is into true crime = perfect match! I loved this story and these characters. It did not lack on spice at all, he is a man with many talents.
I couldn’t recommend this novella (series starter) and along with this amazing author more if your into darker spicy romance! I can’t wait for the rest of the series to come out 🖤
He is a hitman for hire with the mob and she is into true crime = perfect match! I loved this story and these characters. It did not lack on spice at all, he is a man with many talents.
I couldn’t recommend this novella (series starter) and along with this amazing author more if your into darker spicy romance! I can’t wait for the rest of the series to come out 🖤
March 22, 2022
This is a short novella set in the world of a hitman for hire, in this case Viper. He has a foul mouth but he is sexy and protective when it comes to Autumn, the woman he met in a club but can’t seem to leave alone. Their one night stand has suddenly turned into a lot more. Autumn is a woman obsessed with serial killers who has a quirky personality. These two are instantly drawn to another but there is plenty of outside interference to contend with.
If you like dark, hot and spicy reads, this is a great novella to start off what is shaping up to be a great series. Grab it up, you won’t be sorry you did.
2 Thumbs up and 4 Stars
If you like dark, hot and spicy reads, this is a great novella to start off what is shaping up to be a great series. Grab it up, you won’t be sorry you did.
2 Thumbs up and 4 Stars
March 30, 2022
a hitman and a virgin. yup, it’s one of those books and let me tell you, i’m here for it 😂 it was a short, dirty read. perfect book to get you out of a book slump.
tropes :
- insta-love
- age-gap
characters :
viper - an obsessed, protective hero. the things he’d say 🥵
autumn - has an obsession with serial killers. she did kinda annoy me during a few parts in the book but overall she was a good character.
so that being said, i wasn’t invested in the book. i read the book in a span of 2 weeks. i wish i’d been able to connect with the characters more.
tropes :
- insta-love
- age-gap
characters :
viper - an obsessed, protective hero. the things he’d say 🥵
autumn - has an obsession with serial killers. she did kinda annoy me during a few parts in the book but overall she was a good character.
so that being said, i wasn’t invested in the book. i read the book in a span of 2 weeks. i wish i’d been able to connect with the characters more.
March 31, 2022
Viper by J.M. Stoneback is a swoon worthy dark romance, that is super hard to let go off. As a result of which I basically finished this novella in a day.
I loved both the characters, i.e. Viper and Autumn. Viper is surprisingly an emotional character. I mean according to his profile he is an assassin on hire. He kills people and doesn't get affected.
Autumn on the other hand came out as a strong character, who was still trying to find her way.
The story is fast paced, gripping, smutty, and well written. Even though it is a novella, J.M. Stoneback was able to flesh out the characters really well.
I loved both the characters, i.e. Viper and Autumn. Viper is surprisingly an emotional character. I mean according to his profile he is an assassin on hire. He kills people and doesn't get affected.
Autumn on the other hand came out as a strong character, who was still trying to find her way.
The story is fast paced, gripping, smutty, and well written. Even though it is a novella, J.M. Stoneback was able to flesh out the characters really well.
May 8, 2022
I am on page 7 of 116 and I’m done.
FMC is. 21 yo tstl dramatic “loser.” Her words not mine. She essentially feels she’s a failure at life because she didn’t accomplish her dreams at 21?!
She’s put herself down and called her self a klutz about 15 times already.
OHhh she’s turning 21 and is with her BFF at a bar…where she thinks it’s “hot” to lose her V card to a random stranger who’s older than her and probably doesn’t want strings.
The way the author describes the “wood” bar with a “sagging” dance floor is ridiculous. I’m not liking the vibe
So far way to stodgy, and unrealistic. I can’t read more without being annoyed.
FMC is. 21 yo tstl dramatic “loser.” Her words not mine. She essentially feels she’s a failure at life because she didn’t accomplish her dreams at 21?!
She’s put herself down and called her self a klutz about 15 times already.
OHhh she’s turning 21 and is with her BFF at a bar…where she thinks it’s “hot” to lose her V card to a random stranger who’s older than her and probably doesn’t want strings.
The way the author describes the “wood” bar with a “sagging” dance floor is ridiculous. I’m not liking the vibe
So far way to stodgy, and unrealistic. I can’t read more without being annoyed.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 24, 2022
Autumn goes out to celebrate her 21st birthday with her friend Raven, unaware that tonight she is going to meet the man who is going to change her life.
Viper is a hitman who works for the 5 mafia families of NY, and as soon as he sees Autumn he knows that she has to be his.
After a crazy night of passion, Viper doesn't want to give her up but knows his lifestyle is hard to accept, but Autumn is the daughter of serial killers and she gets him better than anyone ever has.
Although they have their ups and downs this couple gets their HEA.
Dark, twisted and sexy. What more could you want?.
Viper is a hitman who works for the 5 mafia families of NY, and as soon as he sees Autumn he knows that she has to be his.
After a crazy night of passion, Viper doesn't want to give her up but knows his lifestyle is hard to accept, but Autumn is the daughter of serial killers and she gets him better than anyone ever has.
Although they have their ups and downs this couple gets their HEA.
Dark, twisted and sexy. What more could you want?.
March 23, 2022
I just loved this fast-paced, insta-love series starter! Hitman falls for the nerdy, true crime loving heroine!! It is everything I want in a dark, delicious, steamy romance! They come from some what the same back ground. He stalks her to find things about her when they were supposed to be just a one night stand to celebrate her 21st birthday. However, he can’t let her go and wants to do all he can to protect her!! It did pull at the heart strings at some points but it stitches you back together!!!
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