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Five little words ...
They should have meant nothing, just a proposition made by a man Luna Santiago didn't know for reasons she didn't understand.
Five little words was all it had taken to open her eyes and see the new life he offered.
With five little words, Kit Runehart owned her.
Five little words ...
They should have meant nothing, just a proposition made by a man Luna Santiago didn't know for reasons she didn't understand.
Five little words was all it had taken to open her eyes and see the new life he offered.
With five little words, Kit Runehart owned her.
338 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 3, 2016
157 people are currently reading
942 people want to read
About the author
London Miller
46 books1,411 followersWith a degree in Creative Writing, London Miller has turned pen to paper, creating riveting fictional worlds where the bad guys are sometimes the good guys. Her debut novel, In the Beginning, is the first in the Volkov Bratva Series.
She currently resides in southern Georgia where she drinks far too much coffee, and spends her nights writing.
To learn more about London Miller and her novels, please visit her through her social media:
http://facebook.com/londonmillerauthor
http://twitter.com/AuthorLMiller
Also, you can email her at: london.millerauthor@gmail.com
She currently resides in southern Georgia where she drinks far too much coffee, and spends her nights writing.
To learn more about London Miller and her novels, please visit her through her social media:
http://facebook.com/londonmillerauthor
http://twitter.com/AuthorLMiller
Also, you can email her at: london.millerauthor@gmail.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 98 reviews
April 11, 2021
I want to tell you a story,” Belladonna said, though Luna had yet to take her gaze from the television. “About a girl whose life was not her own.”
“Now this girl,” Belladonna went on as she twisted the gold Cartier bracelet on her wrist, “beautiful girl, she was, had become a pawn in a game she didn’t know she was playing."
There was a dangerous thing about fear and doubts. Sometimes they could be ignored, pushed aside because the worries were unfounded, but other times it only took the smallest bit of information to make those doubts morph into something bigger.
Something like suspicion.
And very much like realization.
Secrets. Lies. Manipulation. Revenge. This book hit on many of my sweet spots. Not to mention a whore turned deadly assassin? Why didn't any of the reviews mention this up top? I would have started this book ages ago. There's nothing quite as fulfilling to read as a wronged woman gaining skills to kill her tormentors.
**Minor Spoilers Ahead**
» Luna
I found to be an immensely likable heroine. Sweet, vulnerable, but also with a core that's tough as nails. Her arc was so fulfilling to read.
I've always enjoyed movies about spies & assassins, this is like crack to me....so it was no surprise Luna's training was one of my favorite parts. Big Trigger Warning:
» Kit
He wasn’t sweating.
His hands weren’t shaking.
Nor were his pupils blown out the way Lawrence’s had whenever he did violence.
He seemed entirely unaffected.
As the blood began dripping from the table onto the floor, nearly covering his arms up to his elbows, he didn’t seem bothered at all.
Luna should have been horrified at the violence before her, but as she watched Kit work, she might have fallen a little in love.
Kit is....a dastardly gentlemen. As soon as Luna arrives he treats her with the utmost care & respect. It was a huge relief for me to see while he certainly took on feelings of endearment towards Luna immediately, he didn't creepily hit on her. He gave her space & the ability to heal (though in an unconventional way). Luna's previous abuse was depicted so realistically at first I couldn't help but think Luna needed to be given to foster parents that would care for her & send her to therapy...all until her training began. Honestly? For a fictional story, there may be no better way for a character to heal than working out & training to become an assassin.
Underneath Kit's suave, gentlemanly veneer is a cold-hearted, calculated killer who has no qualms making business deals with sex traffickers if it benefits him. He lacks empathy for anyone other than himself, until he meets Luna. It's easy to forget this, but the author did make this clear in the very beginning of the book, because the only reason Uilleam ran into Luna again was that he had business dealings with the people who were holding her. Kit even becomes upset because Uilleam starts interfering with men he was doing business with. I really appreciate this subtlety by the author.
This book also reminded me of what a sick bastard Uilleam was, and the only thing that made it okay was realizing that at this same time in the Kingmaker Saga Karina was making his life hell.
Speaking of the Kingmaker saga, it was implied who the person was behind the warehouse fire, and I even guessed it at first, but considering who Luna ended up with...it was just hard for me to believe. All the questions I had regarding the warehouse fire & Luna from the Kingmaker saga were answered satisfactorily. Props to the author for that. The tie in with Jackal? Belladonna? Elias? I admire how interconnected the two series are. There's so much depth. At first I thought Luna was just upset with Kit for the obvious reasons...until the author cleverly reminded the reader, that no, it was also Luna finding out from Belladonna Kit was with this quote:
“When I found out you had accepted a contract with my mother, I …”
“You thought I was trying to hurt you?”
Luna shook her head. “Not in the way you mean.” She knew he would never do something like that, not purposefully. “I thought you were trying to make a point—teach me a lesson—that business was separate from what we have— had.”
These two though! So much chemistry. The rather quick build up to love and then absolute ruin of their relationship to the possibility of healing was such a good read. ❤️ This book isn't perfect, but there are so many elements I enjoyed that I'm bumping this up from 4 stars to 5. I now cannot wait to read Winter & Tacut's romance. Also Fang's story. I could ramble on and on about other aspects I enjoyed but this is long enough, so I'll go ahead and stop here.
“Now this girl,” Belladonna went on as she twisted the gold Cartier bracelet on her wrist, “beautiful girl, she was, had become a pawn in a game she didn’t know she was playing."
There was a dangerous thing about fear and doubts. Sometimes they could be ignored, pushed aside because the worries were unfounded, but other times it only took the smallest bit of information to make those doubts morph into something bigger.
Something like suspicion.
And very much like realization.
Secrets. Lies. Manipulation. Revenge. This book hit on many of my sweet spots. Not to mention a whore turned deadly assassin? Why didn't any of the reviews mention this up top? I would have started this book ages ago. There's nothing quite as fulfilling to read as a wronged woman gaining skills to kill her tormentors.
**Minor Spoilers Ahead**
» Luna
I found to be an immensely likable heroine. Sweet, vulnerable, but also with a core that's tough as nails. Her arc was so fulfilling to read.
“Crawl to me,” he said, making her cheeks darken with anger and embarrassment, but she followed his direction, not stopping until she was mere inches from his seated form.
Once she was close enough, he reached for her, brushing strands of her hair out of her face, his voice low as he whispered in Spanish, “Play your part, and you may leave this place tonight.”
Once Benjamin had finally stopped breathing, Luna’s training had officially begun.
With none other than Kit.
Originally, she had thought she would spend a few days on different tasks—a week for guns, two for knives, and more for everything else that she would possibly have to learn, but those days quickly added up to weeks, and weeks turned into months.
From guns, they moved on to knives, and even that was an in depth lesson, but she found herself rather fascinated by the knives than wielding a gun. She couldn’t help but recall the precision he used when he cut Benjamin to pieces, wanting to be able to do that.
“They’re harder to kill with,” Kit had told her that day, seeing the way she looked at it.
“Then I’ll learn to make it easy.”
I've always enjoyed movies about spies & assassins, this is like crack to me....so it was no surprise Luna's training was one of my favorite parts. Big Trigger Warning:
» Kit
He wasn’t sweating.
His hands weren’t shaking.
Nor were his pupils blown out the way Lawrence’s had whenever he did violence.
He seemed entirely unaffected.
As the blood began dripping from the table onto the floor, nearly covering his arms up to his elbows, he didn’t seem bothered at all.
Luna should have been horrified at the violence before her, but as she watched Kit work, she might have fallen a little in love.
Kit is....a dastardly gentlemen. As soon as Luna arrives he treats her with the utmost care & respect. It was a huge relief for me to see while he certainly took on feelings of endearment towards Luna immediately, he didn't creepily hit on her. He gave her space & the ability to heal (though in an unconventional way). Luna's previous abuse was depicted so realistically at first I couldn't help but think Luna needed to be given to foster parents that would care for her & send her to therapy...all until her training began. Honestly? For a fictional story, there may be no better way for a character to heal than working out & training to become an assassin.
Underneath Kit's suave, gentlemanly veneer is a cold-hearted, calculated killer who has no qualms making business deals with sex traffickers if it benefits him. He lacks empathy for anyone other than himself, until he meets Luna. It's easy to forget this, but the author did make this clear in the very beginning of the book, because the only reason Uilleam ran into Luna again was that he had business dealings with the people who were holding her. Kit even becomes upset because Uilleam starts interfering with men he was doing business with. I really appreciate this subtlety by the author.
This book also reminded me of what a sick bastard Uilleam was, and the only thing that made it okay was realizing that at this same time in the Kingmaker Saga Karina was making his life hell.
Speaking of the Kingmaker saga, it was implied who the person was behind the warehouse fire, and I even guessed it at first, but considering who Luna ended up with...it was just hard for me to believe. All the questions I had regarding the warehouse fire & Luna from the Kingmaker saga were answered satisfactorily. Props to the author for that. The tie in with Jackal? Belladonna? Elias? I admire how interconnected the two series are. There's so much depth. At first I thought Luna was just upset with Kit for the obvious reasons...until the author cleverly reminded the reader, that no, it was also Luna finding out from Belladonna Kit was with this quote:
“When I found out you had accepted a contract with my mother, I …”
“You thought I was trying to hurt you?”
Luna shook her head. “Not in the way you mean.” She knew he would never do something like that, not purposefully. “I thought you were trying to make a point—teach me a lesson—that business was separate from what we have— had.”
These two though! So much chemistry. The rather quick build up to love and then absolute ruin of their relationship to the possibility of healing was such a good read. ❤️ This book isn't perfect, but there are so many elements I enjoyed that I'm bumping this up from 4 stars to 5. I now cannot wait to read Winter & Tacut's romance. Also Fang's story. I could ramble on and on about other aspects I enjoyed but this is long enough, so I'll go ahead and stop here.
December 25, 2016
REVIEW IN PROGRESS
I've only read 'Red' so I'm hoping I can understand all that goes on within this book, but when I was approached by the author to read this and to be put on the arc list for the next within the series yeah I wasn't going to say no to that, because let it be known I cray cray love this author, she goes where no other author dares to go.
NIX: This book solely focuses on Kit and Luna..
It all started with Five little words ... Would you like a gift? Five little words that had so much meaning behind those words.
In the beginning of Nix, in 'The Prologue' we discover that Kit "Nix" and "Luna" Santiago are in their therapist's office where it is apparent their marriage is in tatters.
But to understand where it all went wrong, we have to go back, back to where it all began..
Nix is divided up into 'Three Parts' In 'Part One' this details Luna's captivity with Lawrence, to her freedom by The Kingmaker (Uilleam), but her freedom comes at a price, and then her subsequent mercenary training.
Many masked men break into the family home where Luna is currently by herself, no hopes of escaping, a prick to the neck, and lights are out.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 8, 2017
I loved the way this story began! The reader meets Kit "Nix" Runehart and Luna "Calavera" Santiago in a therapist's office where they're verbally sparring with each other about the demise of their marriage. A suggestion is made by the therapist and the reader is taken back in time to when these two first met. This is not a gritty read, but dark topics are part of this story.
Nix is divided into three parts: part one details Luna's captivity, freedom, mercenary training, and early history with Kit. The beginning of part two mirrors the preface of the story and ends on a cliffhanger, with the rest of this story to be told in the upcoming book, Calavera. Part three is the CODA section and in it are more clues about Kingmaker's personal life.
The upside?
◊ The steamy scenes were hot!
◊ Luna is the kind of heroine who's ballsy, coordinated, strong, and spirited without those pesky TSTL issues.
Favorite scenes? When Tăcut was teaching Luna how to throw knives. I loved how he cared enough to show her how to focus her mind and she was strong enough to heed his advice.
I loved these characters, but I found this book to be underwhelming until the last thirty percent of the story where the suspense and drama were ratcheted up. This book felt like the author was telling me a story but I was very much aware that it was just a story and I was merely observing from the sidelines. I wanted the aliveness and intensity of the content to give me an enthralling experience! Somehow, most of the story felt lackluster and lacked intensity. I loved the action scenes, but some areas of the story were predictable from a mile away and left me feeling a bit disappointed.
While I loved Luna's character in Celt's book because she was a force to be reckoned with, I didn't understand Kit's longing for her. Curiosity, yes, but this was a man who only knew about the finer things in life, yet he was pining after this one girl who used to be a sex worker. I understood why Luna was captivated by Kit, but I didn't know why he was so fascinated by her in the beginning.
Further issues
Overall, this is a great book for a reader looking for a plot-heavy story littered with action and romance, but without the level of grit found in other books that are very dark.
Nix is divided into three parts: part one details Luna's captivity, freedom, mercenary training, and early history with Kit. The beginning of part two mirrors the preface of the story and ends on a cliffhanger, with the rest of this story to be told in the upcoming book, Calavera. Part three is the CODA section and in it are more clues about Kingmaker's personal life.
The upside?
◊ The steamy scenes were hot!
◊ Luna is the kind of heroine who's ballsy, coordinated, strong, and spirited without those pesky TSTL issues.
Favorite scenes? When Tăcut was teaching Luna how to throw knives. I loved how he cared enough to show her how to focus her mind and she was strong enough to heed his advice.
I loved these characters, but I found this book to be underwhelming until the last thirty percent of the story where the suspense and drama were ratcheted up. This book felt like the author was telling me a story but I was very much aware that it was just a story and I was merely observing from the sidelines. I wanted the aliveness and intensity of the content to give me an enthralling experience! Somehow, most of the story felt lackluster and lacked intensity. I loved the action scenes, but some areas of the story were predictable from a mile away and left me feeling a bit disappointed.
While I loved Luna's character in Celt's book because she was a force to be reckoned with, I didn't understand Kit's longing for her. Curiosity, yes, but this was a man who only knew about the finer things in life, yet he was pining after this one girl who used to be a sex worker. I understood why Luna was captivated by Kit, but I didn't know why he was so fascinated by her in the beginning.
Further issues
Overall, this is a great book for a reader looking for a plot-heavy story littered with action and romance, but without the level of grit found in other books that are very dark.
February 24, 2018
Oh, I have so greatly, greatly, GREATLY missed reading LM books. I have a bunch to catch up on, because last year was the devil on me with time, so for the next while, I shall be binging on the Den, and the Wild Bunch.
I make no apologies.
***
Edit: Devoured in 4 hours. I don't ever want to hear anyone say LM can't write a story because what a damn story. And the way these plots are so intricately woven are beyond amazing. So she just needs all the props for that, really. How could you not have an amazing story with the history of Luna and Kit being what it is? Fantastic, really.
I am behind on the Den, but I am rectifying that.
My demands are as such:
Tacut needs love.
Winter, too. (she's so goddamn sweet and cute it makes my teeth ache)
Hello, Syn, saw mentions of you sneaking in there. I'm getting to you, poor broken little thing.
Fix it, Nix.
Kill the bitch.
Read the damn book.
I make no apologies.
***
Edit: Devoured in 4 hours. I don't ever want to hear anyone say LM can't write a story because what a damn story. And the way these plots are so intricately woven are beyond amazing. So she just needs all the props for that, really. How could you not have an amazing story with the history of Luna and Kit being what it is? Fantastic, really.
I am behind on the Den, but I am rectifying that.
My demands are as such:
Tacut needs love.
Winter, too. (she's so goddamn sweet and cute it makes my teeth ache)
Hello, Syn, saw mentions of you sneaking in there. I'm getting to you, poor broken little thing.
Fix it, Nix.
Kill the bitch.
Read the damn book.
August 5, 2019
I seriously have held my breath the entire time reading the story of Kit ("Nix") Runehart and Luna (Calavera) Santiago. We have gotten glimpses and tastes of the history and drama between them but seriously I had no idea how amazing their story could be (and this is only their first book!!) I am in love with Nix and Luna and don't think I can love this author any more!
Gah! The level of detail and precision with all the tiny breadcrumbs Miller has revealed has completely taken me by storm. Luna's story was both tragic and redemptive. Butbher loves story with Kit was transformative. It was sexy and powerful. I have loved every word and am so hooked reading so slowly to ensure that none of the facts escape me. I am seriously in love and can not wait to jump into Calavera and into more of the mind games of the Kingmaker. Bravo! 5 stars! ~Ratula
Gah! The level of detail and precision with all the tiny breadcrumbs Miller has revealed has completely taken me by storm. Luna's story was both tragic and redemptive. Butbher loves story with Kit was transformative. It was sexy and powerful. I have loved every word and am so hooked reading so slowly to ensure that none of the facts escape me. I am seriously in love and can not wait to jump into Calavera and into more of the mind games of the Kingmaker. Bravo! 5 stars! ~Ratula
June 16, 2017
***** 4 Stars *****
Can be read as a standalone- but reading the previous books are HIGHLY recommended.
Nix is my favorite book in the series so far because we finally get a closer look inside The Den and The Kingmaker's world.
The story starts off with Kit "Nix" Runehart and Luna "Calavera" Santiago in marriage counseling. The therapist asks them some questions and they begin to retell their past from the beginning.
Before Luna became a mercenary, she was just a regular girl with dreams. Her normal life ended when she was kidnapped and sold to a brothel. From there she was taken again to become a trained killer.
As Kit trained Luna, he couldn't stop the developing feelings. Even though he wasn't supposed to become so involved in her life, he always ended up watching her back.
This isn't an instalove story. London Miller goes into great detail about the events that changed them. How their love was created and then later destroyed. The pace is a little slow, but I found it very fitting.
I love Kit. He's powerful, cunning, and ruthless... but at the same time he's a passionate lover and husband. It's obvious that Kit and Luna are anything but over. Unfortunately, even if they come back together, someone is going to get hurt.
The puzzle gets bigger as more players join the game. I'm so curious about the mystery. Who is crazy enough to go against The Kingmaker and his ruthless organization? I can't wait to read the next book!
Can be read as a standalone- but reading the previous books are HIGHLY recommended.
Nix is my favorite book in the series so far because we finally get a closer look inside The Den and The Kingmaker's world.
The story starts off with Kit "Nix" Runehart and Luna "Calavera" Santiago in marriage counseling. The therapist asks them some questions and they begin to retell their past from the beginning.
Before Luna became a mercenary, she was just a regular girl with dreams. Her normal life ended when she was kidnapped and sold to a brothel. From there she was taken again to become a trained killer.
As Kit trained Luna, he couldn't stop the developing feelings. Even though he wasn't supposed to become so involved in her life, he always ended up watching her back.
This isn't an instalove story. London Miller goes into great detail about the events that changed them. How their love was created and then later destroyed. The pace is a little slow, but I found it very fitting.
I love Kit. He's powerful, cunning, and ruthless... but at the same time he's a passionate lover and husband. It's obvious that Kit and Luna are anything but over. Unfortunately, even if they come back together, someone is going to get hurt.
The puzzle gets bigger as more players join the game. I'm so curious about the mystery. Who is crazy enough to go against The Kingmaker and his ruthless organization? I can't wait to read the next book!
May 1, 2022
For those who know who the Kingmaker is, this is the story of his older brother, the equally ruthless and powerful Kit, and Luna, the victim of human-trafficking he grows to love. Because the "Den of Mercenaries" and "Kingmaker" series is the literary equivalent of a 40,000 piece jigsaw puzzle that requires you to assemble all the pieces before getting the complete picture, each book only gives you a portion of that picture, so to speak. In other words, none of them are standalones. Trigger Warnings for Rape, Pedophilia, and Torture. In addition, Kit does sleep with Luna when she's 17.
I've read enough of this author's books to say that while the content is great, the form leaves a lot to be desired. I'm always at a loss as to how to rate the books because the narrative is compelling, but the prose is so problematic that I'm very frustrated by the end. I simply don't understand how anyone who calls themself a professional writer can take so little pride in their work.
For me, the two biggest positives of the series are the overarching narrative and the strong female characters. The former is so complex and contains so many different characters, points of view, plot strands, backstories, and eras that it really is epic. In terms of the latter, while mafia stories usually depict the very boring and over-used good girl/bad boy relationship dynamic, this does not. While both Uilleam and Kit do follow the familiar trope of the Alphahole who only softens for and will do anything for his woman (Kit is particularly cognizant of Luna's trauma), neither of their women are exactly sunshine incarnate: both are powerful and their men respect that.
The three biggest negatives are the inconsistent timeline (?); sudden shifts in time and space (the author provides few transitions between chapters, particularly near the end); and certain aspects of Luna's character. While I appreciated her strength and intelligence, Luna's sole motivation is Kit: she has little life, personality, or goals separate from him. After her ordeal, I'd have expected to see more desire for revenge or to see her family, but .
Finally, I do want to advise potential readers that this is an embedded narrative: flashbacks, stories-within-stories, and changing points-of-view may be confusing and many lines of action aren't resolved. This didn't bother me, though, and I found the framing story -- arch-assassins Luna & Kit visit a therapist a la Tony Soprano -- amusing.
3 1/2 stars. I appreciated the ethnic diversity (Luna is Latina) and that there were far fewer typos than in most of Ms. London's books. You do need to suspend disbelief at how quickly Luna recovers from her trauma -- perhaps mercenary training is the new psychotherapy?
I've read enough of this author's books to say that while the content is great, the form leaves a lot to be desired. I'm always at a loss as to how to rate the books because the narrative is compelling, but the prose is so problematic that I'm very frustrated by the end. I simply don't understand how anyone who calls themself a professional writer can take so little pride in their work.
For me, the two biggest positives of the series are the overarching narrative and the strong female characters. The former is so complex and contains so many different characters, points of view, plot strands, backstories, and eras that it really is epic. In terms of the latter, while mafia stories usually depict the very boring and over-used good girl/bad boy relationship dynamic, this does not. While both Uilleam and Kit do follow the familiar trope of the Alphahole who only softens for and will do anything for his woman (Kit is particularly cognizant of Luna's trauma), neither of their women are exactly sunshine incarnate: both are powerful and their men respect that.
The three biggest negatives are the inconsistent timeline (?); sudden shifts in time and space (the author provides few transitions between chapters, particularly near the end); and certain aspects of Luna's character. While I appreciated her strength and intelligence, Luna's sole motivation is Kit: she has little life, personality, or goals separate from him. After her ordeal, I'd have expected to see more desire for revenge or to see her family, but .
Finally, I do want to advise potential readers that this is an embedded narrative: flashbacks, stories-within-stories, and changing points-of-view may be confusing and many lines of action aren't resolved. This didn't bother me, though, and I found the framing story -- arch-assassins Luna & Kit visit a therapist a la Tony Soprano -- amusing.
3 1/2 stars. I appreciated the ethnic diversity (Luna is Latina) and that there were far fewer typos than in most of Ms. London's books. You do need to suspend disbelief at how quickly Luna recovers from her trauma -- perhaps mercenary training is the new psychotherapy?
July 9, 2019
Two brothers that are eternal opposing forces needed to maintain balance in a deadly universe. They are often at odds, sometimes on the precipice of war, yet always acknowledging familial loyalty. Uilleam "The Kingmaker" Runeheart is feared and respected for his legendary power brokering games, while controlling the world's most lethel mercenary organization, The Den. While one brother specializes in chaos, his older brother Kit "The Phoenix" Runeheart has the power of creating order in the world as he sees fit. He also maintains a shadow cell called The Wild Bunch. The only force his brother respects enough to change course when needed. Somehow Luna Santiago a troubled girl, with a unclear past finds herself the mysterious fulcrum between them. Let the games begin.
The Good:
1. There might be three main characters, but it isn't a love triangle, so breathe easy. Kit and Luna are the focus of the romance, but Uilleam is central to the world building. Each character is complex, and fascinating in different ways.
2. Kit is a swoon worthy alpha. He has no chill, brings strength, and ability to be soft with the heroine too.
3. Luna's story arc is amazing. I am afraid to ruin the reading experience by revealing too much.
4. We finally get to see Uilleam outside of his villain role, and I'm waiting with bated breath for the eventual book we will get one day.
5. We get a better look at the workings of the world set up in the previous books.
6. The action ramps up, gets grittier, and darker in this installment.
7. Antiheroes rule here and I'm fine with there not being any true good guys in this tale.
8. Fans of Illuminati themes will find this book's worldview interesting.
The Bad:
Different types of past abuse woven throughout the storytelling, might be triggering for some.
Final Thoughts:
The other books in this series were enjoyable but this one went to another level for me. I was so engrossed, didn't want it to end. Actually happy it continues into the next book without a jarring cliffhanger ending. I'm reading the boxset so not an issue for me either way.
Re-read Update 07/09/19: Re-reading this after immersing myself in "The Kingmaker Saga"
series only adds more gravitas to this book. The world building is meticulous. These characters are ones I will most likely revisit often, as old friends.
The Good:
1. There might be three main characters, but it isn't a love triangle, so breathe easy. Kit and Luna are the focus of the romance, but Uilleam is central to the world building. Each character is complex, and fascinating in different ways.
2. Kit is a swoon worthy alpha. He has no chill, brings strength, and ability to be soft with the heroine too.
3. Luna's story arc is amazing. I am afraid to ruin the reading experience by revealing too much.
4. We finally get to see Uilleam outside of his villain role, and I'm waiting with bated breath for the eventual book we will get one day.
5. We get a better look at the workings of the world set up in the previous books.
6. The action ramps up, gets grittier, and darker in this installment.
7. Antiheroes rule here and I'm fine with there not being any true good guys in this tale.
8. Fans of Illuminati themes will find this book's worldview interesting.
The Bad:
Different types of past abuse woven throughout the storytelling, might be triggering for some.
Final Thoughts:
The other books in this series were enjoyable but this one went to another level for me. I was so engrossed, didn't want it to end. Actually happy it continues into the next book without a jarring cliffhanger ending. I'm reading the boxset so not an issue for me either way.
Re-read Update 07/09/19: Re-reading this after immersing myself in "The Kingmaker Saga"
series only adds more gravitas to this book. The world building is meticulous. These characters are ones I will most likely revisit often, as old friends. 
June 26, 2022
London Miller es una escritora diferente a las que suelo encontrar, la unica que se me ocurre que escribe de forma similar es Bethany Kris y aun asi, en ocasiones ni siquiera ella consigue dejarme tan en shock como la Sra Miller.
Despues de que Celt fuera una novela tan completa y que dejara tantas incognitas sobre Kit y Luna estaba intrigada con Nix, sin embargo, me falto mas para considerarla tan formidable como Celt.
Creo que eso es debido principalmente a que al ser la primera parte de un duo, es bastante introductoria, y aunque si que hay mucha tension, giros, accion y secretos, no me impresiono tanto como esperaba.
Un aspecto que no me convencio mucho fueron los saltos temporales, personalmente, me confundieron bastante, estan " colocados " de una manera mas que curiosa y en muchas ocasiones ni siquiera estan marcados como tal, ese detalle me sacaba a veces de la lectura, lo que me resulto molesto.
La historia en general me atrapo y se lee de maravilla, tiene tantos matices y revelaciones que fue un gusto pasar las paginas, ademas, conocer un poco mas a los personajes secundarios ( que tambien tendran sus propias historias ) fue muy grato, tengo curiosidad por todos, no obstante, creo que hubieron pequeños puntos que pudieron haber sido mejores, pero como ya digo, es un libro con un aire muy introductorio y eso influye.
3 Estrellas!
December 26, 2017
First of all I'm baffled why this is called Nix when the majority of the book is Luna/Calavera recounting her very traumatic adolescence, how she met Kit/Nix and why she left him.
I really enjoyed the book, though it has a very different feel to the first two. In this book much more time is spent on giving background the the Den, Uilleam/Kingmaker (I'm not getting the hang of everyone having two names), Luna and Kit. There were a few significant characters introduced and a lot of plot twists and background information revealed that I'm sure will prove important in future books. Red and Celt were much more love stories set in a world of mercenaries and danger. Nix seemed to be more about the people, though we do see the love story of Luna and Kit.
I was disappointed that, after being an unwilling sex slave, raped and beaten frequently from the age of 14 that Luna didn't have a few issues being intimate with Kit, or suffer flashbacks. She also seemed to recover really well without any counselling/emotional support. Again a little unlikely for a 17 year old girl who had been fairly pampered and sheltered for 14 years of her life.
My other issue was with the timeline. It was hugely confusing - how long was she with Kit before she started training? How long did that training take? How long before they started a relationship? How long before they married? How long until she left him? There were conflicting times given for most of this. Plus she used how long Kit has been an assassin to gauge his age, but this didn't allow for how long he had spent as a 'Facilitator' and boss of the Wild Bunch. The years given meant that role had to be virtually brand new but that wasn't the impression I got.
HOWEVER, I did still really enjoy this book and the extra insight it gives us into both Kit and Uilleam. I have to say I'm not quite sure if I love or loathe those guys, although Kit is the more human of the two.
I totally believed in the connection between Kit and Luna, I've not read all the books in order and I half expected this to focus on a very Dom/sub type relationship with lots of kinky sex scenes. It didn't, they were more inferred, and I was glad about that. I LOVE BDSM/kink books but that wouldn't have really helped with this story and series. In fact I think it would have detracted and trivialised the background story that is running through the whole series.
There were so many little scenes that added real depth to the story and so many plot twists that added extra understanding. The author is leading us on a merry little dance as we get closer and closer to understanding the truth behind the Kingmaker and his games.
Whilst you could read this without reading Red and/or Celt, there is information in the other books that enhances this one. The story in Kit will conclude in the next book, Luna. I'm definitely going to be reading that and am really enjoying this series of books.
I really enjoyed the book, though it has a very different feel to the first two. In this book much more time is spent on giving background the the Den, Uilleam/Kingmaker (I'm not getting the hang of everyone having two names), Luna and Kit. There were a few significant characters introduced and a lot of plot twists and background information revealed that I'm sure will prove important in future books. Red and Celt were much more love stories set in a world of mercenaries and danger. Nix seemed to be more about the people, though we do see the love story of Luna and Kit.
I was disappointed that, after being an unwilling sex slave, raped and beaten frequently from the age of 14 that Luna didn't have a few issues being intimate with Kit, or suffer flashbacks. She also seemed to recover really well without any counselling/emotional support. Again a little unlikely for a 17 year old girl who had been fairly pampered and sheltered for 14 years of her life.
My other issue was with the timeline. It was hugely confusing - how long was she with Kit before she started training? How long did that training take? How long before they started a relationship? How long before they married? How long until she left him? There were conflicting times given for most of this. Plus she used how long Kit has been an assassin to gauge his age, but this didn't allow for how long he had spent as a 'Facilitator' and boss of the Wild Bunch. The years given meant that role had to be virtually brand new but that wasn't the impression I got.
HOWEVER, I did still really enjoy this book and the extra insight it gives us into both Kit and Uilleam. I have to say I'm not quite sure if I love or loathe those guys, although Kit is the more human of the two.
I totally believed in the connection between Kit and Luna, I've not read all the books in order and I half expected this to focus on a very Dom/sub type relationship with lots of kinky sex scenes. It didn't, they were more inferred, and I was glad about that. I LOVE BDSM/kink books but that wouldn't have really helped with this story and series. In fact I think it would have detracted and trivialised the background story that is running through the whole series.
There were so many little scenes that added real depth to the story and so many plot twists that added extra understanding. The author is leading us on a merry little dance as we get closer and closer to understanding the truth behind the Kingmaker and his games.
Whilst you could read this without reading Red and/or Celt, there is information in the other books that enhances this one. The story in Kit will conclude in the next book, Luna. I'm definitely going to be reading that and am really enjoying this series of books.
Read
November 10, 2016
Amazon US: http://amzn.to/2eGAQTr
Amazon UK: http://amzn.to/2f1rfcI
November 1, 2017
I’m loving this series, loved this book too, the plot thickens, straight onto book four.
Want to read
April 28, 2022🎁 FREE on Amazon & on Apple iBooks today (4/28/2022)! 🎁
January 28, 2021
Heartbreaker yet also heart-mender? Clearly I loved the book-since I gave it 5stars- but let me tell you when I realized it. The last page of the preface. Yup, you heard me right.
Now that doesn’t sound like a good thing but this sets up the setting of the story. They are literally in the same room recapping their love to a marriage counselor. It’s like as soon as that is said the lights go dark and when they come back on you are transported to the very beginning. I absolutely ADORE the premise. I love these two equally as well. There wasn’t one I care for more than the other. They’re like Mr. & Mrs. Smith but better. They’re gritty, passionate, calculating, and if nothing else consuming.
I think it’s time I re-read this duet from this series. 🤔
“Kit sat back, resting his arm along the top of the settee. “It all started when my brother called to tell me he’d bought a whore.”
Now that doesn’t sound like a good thing but this sets up the setting of the story. They are literally in the same room recapping their love to a marriage counselor. It’s like as soon as that is said the lights go dark and when they come back on you are transported to the very beginning. I absolutely ADORE the premise. I love these two equally as well. There wasn’t one I care for more than the other. They’re like Mr. & Mrs. Smith but better. They’re gritty, passionate, calculating, and if nothing else consuming.
I think it’s time I re-read this duet from this series. 🤔
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 8, 2016
Not sure how I feel 3 1/2 stars...
I am so confused by this book. I thought it was about Kit but it was more about Luna and the next book is about Luna?
There was so many twists and turns and jumps in time that my head is still spinning. More characters were introduced and trying to keep them all in place is mind bending. The writing was great, but I just feel totally lost with everything unanswered and even more twisted.
The story itself interesting and the pull between Kit and Luna very believable. I understand why Luna was upset, but in reality her anger was in the wrong place. Out of all that happened to her, he was the least culpable, while others needed to pay way more of a price.
I will be reading the next.
I am so confused by this book. I thought it was about Kit but it was more about Luna and the next book is about Luna?
There was so many twists and turns and jumps in time that my head is still spinning. More characters were introduced and trying to keep them all in place is mind bending. The writing was great, but I just feel totally lost with everything unanswered and even more twisted.
The story itself interesting and the pull between Kit and Luna very believable. I understand why Luna was upset, but in reality her anger was in the wrong place. Out of all that happened to her, he was the least culpable, while others needed to pay way more of a price.
I will be reading the next.
February 10, 2017
Oops London did it again...
5 Possessive Stars
I feel in this book how the author's writing evolves into something more complicated. In something that makes you want to have all the books in the series and find the answers.
It's amazing how one book connects with another in a sequence from which you can't miss a single detail. While it's true you can read the stories as standalones my recommendation for you is to be read in the detailed order in the series.
Reading a book from London assures you an unique experience. One where you sink so deep that you can't stop until you've finished the story. I had to pause (for a month or so)—'cause I realized that the book would end with a cliffhanger and I needed answers—but the pause wasn't for long I had, no wait, I needed to know what was going to happen.
This book was spicy and kinky. Yes, our London dared to give us a Nix who had a dominant and possessive character that only makes my panties fall off. (The steamy scenes are really hot).
* The introduction of new characters to the series only opens doors to more questions and answers.
* A Luna Santiago who is strong despite everything that has happened.
* A Kingmaker with a background story that arouses you more curiosity.
* So many secrets to tell... that I feel if I write something related to the book I will fall into spoilers.
But hey! It's highly recommended.
PS: Nix is Mine. Mine. Mine. And Only Mine.
Siento en este libro como la escritura de la autora evoluciona en algo más complicado. En algo que te hace querer tener todos los libros de la serie y encontrar las respuestas.
Es increíble como un libro se conecta con otro en una secuencia de la que no puedes perderte ni un solo detalle. Si bien es cierto puedes leer las historias como tomos únicos mi recomendación es que se lea en el orden detallado en la serie.
Leer un libro de London te asegura una experiencia única. Una donde te sumerges tan profundo que no puedes parar hasta que hayas terminado la historia. Yo tuve que ponerle una pausa porque me dí cuenta que el libro terminaría con un final abierto y necesitaba respuestas pero la pausa no fue por mucho yo tenía, no espera, necesitaba saber que iba a pasar.
Este libro fue algo picante y atrevido. Si, nuestra London se atrevió a darle a este personaje un carácter dominante y posesivo que solo hace que se me caigan las bragas. Las escenas calientes son realmente calientes.
La introducción de nuevos personajes a la serie solo abre caminos a más preguntas y respuestas.
Una Luna Santiago fuerte a pesar de todo lo que ha pasado.
Un Kingmaker con una historia de fondo que te despierta más curiosidad.
Tantos secretos que siento si escribo algo relacionado con el libro caeré en spoilers.
Totalmente recomendable.
5 Possessive Stars
I feel in this book how the author's writing evolves into something more complicated. In something that makes you want to have all the books in the series and find the answers.
It's amazing how one book connects with another in a sequence from which you can't miss a single detail. While it's true you can read the stories as standalones my recommendation for you is to be read in the detailed order in the series.
Beautiful girl, she was, made into a pawn in a game she didn’t know she was playing.
Reading a book from London assures you an unique experience. One where you sink so deep that you can't stop until you've finished the story. I had to pause (for a month or so)—'cause I realized that the book would end with a cliffhanger and I needed answers—but the pause wasn't for long I had, no wait, I needed to know what was going to happen.
I’m talking about a martyr— about a girl whose life was taken to give another power.
This book was spicy and kinky. Yes, our London dared to give us a Nix who had a dominant and possessive character that only makes my panties fall off. (The steamy scenes are really hot).
“How long do you think it will take before I break you?
* The introduction of new characters to the series only opens doors to more questions and answers.
* A Luna Santiago who is strong despite everything that has happened.
* A Kingmaker with a background story that arouses you more curiosity.
* So many secrets to tell... that I feel if I write something related to the book I will fall into spoilers.
There was no pain and death. There was no heartache and loss. There was nothing— and she loved it.
But hey! It's highly recommended.
PS: Nix is Mine. Mine. Mine. And Only Mine.
Siento en este libro como la escritura de la autora evoluciona en algo más complicado. En algo que te hace querer tener todos los libros de la serie y encontrar las respuestas.
Es increíble como un libro se conecta con otro en una secuencia de la que no puedes perderte ni un solo detalle. Si bien es cierto puedes leer las historias como tomos únicos mi recomendación es que se lea en el orden detallado en la serie.
Leer un libro de London te asegura una experiencia única. Una donde te sumerges tan profundo que no puedes parar hasta que hayas terminado la historia. Yo tuve que ponerle una pausa porque me dí cuenta que el libro terminaría con un final abierto y necesitaba respuestas pero la pausa no fue por mucho yo tenía, no espera, necesitaba saber que iba a pasar.
Este libro fue algo picante y atrevido. Si, nuestra London se atrevió a darle a este personaje un carácter dominante y posesivo que solo hace que se me caigan las bragas. Las escenas calientes son realmente calientes.
“Ask for what you want, Luna, or I’ll take what I want.”
La introducción de nuevos personajes a la serie solo abre caminos a más preguntas y respuestas.
Una Luna Santiago fuerte a pesar de todo lo que ha pasado.
Un Kingmaker con una historia de fondo que te despierta más curiosidad.
Tantos secretos que siento si escribo algo relacionado con el libro caeré en spoilers.
“We always have choices, brother— the question is whether or not you’ll pick the right one.”
Totalmente recomendable.
November 19, 2016
This story is so intense. I love these characters. After reading Celt I couldn't wait to read about Luna, Kit and Uilleam. Now after reading Nix, I want to know more about Aidria, The Wild Bunch, Skorpion, and Belladonna. At the risk of sounding cheesy, This series reminds me of a onion and it's many layers.
If you are already a fan of Ms. Miller, you definitely need to read this book. If you haven't read any of Ms. Miller's books, but are a fan of romantic suspense, then you need to read this series.
If you are already a fan of Ms. Miller, you definitely need to read this book. If you haven't read any of Ms. Miller's books, but are a fan of romantic suspense, then you need to read this series.
May 26, 2017
Ohhh loving it straight into the next one.
May 9, 2022
This book is very well written. Not just the story either but the writing style too. Kept me interested.
January 20, 2017
I'm a bit confused as to why it was called Nix instead of Calavera. ( & why the 4th one is called Calavera since Nix was basically about Luna but anyway cannot wait for the 4th book!)
December 7, 2019
Each book is slightly better but my expectations with Nix was so much higher! I thought as the leader of the wild bunch of assassins and former Lotus Society member we would get more assassination, violence, torment and maybe some suspenseful play? It’s still slow but good. I’m still vested as Kingmaker is getting more screen time.
April 18, 2025
So good!
Now to write a review without spilling any secrets...
Here I go :)
The tantalising anticipation of the revelations at the beginning of a book is akin to looking at a wrapped gift and then slowly removing the paper. The pleasure of discovering who the characters are and why their story needs sharing is second to none. It’s important to me you enjoy the same rush as I have. What I’ll share will be scant details of the story and more about the head-space it took me to. Without thinking, I do this in most of my reviews, but my reading progress indicated I was a mere 2% into Nix when I was overwhelmed to jot this down. Curiosity drew me back to reading, and his review should wait until the last page and I become acquainted!
Nix is the first part of the Luna and Kit’s story. As mercenaries, they go by at least a couple of names. The complexity of dual names I see as another tool to keep readers’ wits in check. The level of detail is high and even having just finished this book, I want to return to the beginning of the series and read it again. Why? Well, now I know a lot more and realise there is more yet to learn about the secretive world of the Den.
I was team Luna all the way through this book. Her growing determination and intuition show how she evolved into the woman we met earlier in the series. Each mercenary has a history that would crack the heart of the hardest of souls. Luna’s background was no different. As a couple, Nix and Luna compliment each other but the beginning and end of this story highlights that their relationship is complex.
Determined not to reveal anything that would spoil another reader’s joy in reading this series, all I will say is this series would make a fantastic movie series. Suspense, mystery and love interests keep you glued to the pages. Each book reveals the background of a mercenary while building on the ongoing mystery as to whom or who is behind their missions.
Imagine several suspended chess boards. You can’t see who is moving the pieces until after they have removed their hand from the piece. This multi-platform game is how I see the Den of Mercenaries Series. It depicts the emotions the mercenaries have, while not detracting from their trademark cold indifference when on an assignment.
A two-part story that you’ll be grateful for the chance to sit back and absorb all you have read. I didn’t hesitate, clicking all five stars at the rating prompt, and then added it to my 2016 Favourite Shelf!
Now to write a review without spilling any secrets...
Here I go :)
The tantalising anticipation of the revelations at the beginning of a book is akin to looking at a wrapped gift and then slowly removing the paper. The pleasure of discovering who the characters are and why their story needs sharing is second to none. It’s important to me you enjoy the same rush as I have. What I’ll share will be scant details of the story and more about the head-space it took me to. Without thinking, I do this in most of my reviews, but my reading progress indicated I was a mere 2% into Nix when I was overwhelmed to jot this down. Curiosity drew me back to reading, and his review should wait until the last page and I become acquainted!
Nix is the first part of the Luna and Kit’s story. As mercenaries, they go by at least a couple of names. The complexity of dual names I see as another tool to keep readers’ wits in check. The level of detail is high and even having just finished this book, I want to return to the beginning of the series and read it again. Why? Well, now I know a lot more and realise there is more yet to learn about the secretive world of the Den.
I was team Luna all the way through this book. Her growing determination and intuition show how she evolved into the woman we met earlier in the series. Each mercenary has a history that would crack the heart of the hardest of souls. Luna’s background was no different. As a couple, Nix and Luna compliment each other but the beginning and end of this story highlights that their relationship is complex.
Determined not to reveal anything that would spoil another reader’s joy in reading this series, all I will say is this series would make a fantastic movie series. Suspense, mystery and love interests keep you glued to the pages. Each book reveals the background of a mercenary while building on the ongoing mystery as to whom or who is behind their missions.
Imagine several suspended chess boards. You can’t see who is moving the pieces until after they have removed their hand from the piece. This multi-platform game is how I see the Den of Mercenaries Series. It depicts the emotions the mercenaries have, while not detracting from their trademark cold indifference when on an assignment.
A two-part story that you’ll be grateful for the chance to sit back and absorb all you have read. I didn’t hesitate, clicking all five stars at the rating prompt, and then added it to my 2016 Favourite Shelf!
November 6, 2016
This book is #2 on my top favorite from London Miller!
I do not know how she or BK does it but they can write books with such great storylines and such dimensional characters in reasonable time.
That is a true talent.
This book was a change from her usual mafia writing background, but I loved it that she switched it up. If you know her writing though you know she is going to have drama, family rivalry, and great sex scenes. This book had it all.
The one thing that bothered me was around part three (around page 250 I think) I felt myself skimming about 30 pages or so, I felt like Luna and Nix had no communication and that section barely had any dialogue.
Even with that this book is a 4.9*** I loved it so much and I need the next book ASAP, and with London Miller I can always count on not waiting years for a sequel and I respect that a lot.
I do not know how she or BK does it but they can write books with such great storylines and such dimensional characters in reasonable time.
That is a true talent.
This book was a change from her usual mafia writing background, but I loved it that she switched it up. If you know her writing though you know she is going to have drama, family rivalry, and great sex scenes. This book had it all.
The one thing that bothered me was around part three (around page 250 I think) I felt myself skimming about 30 pages or so, I felt like Luna and Nix had no communication and that section barely had any dialogue.
Even with that this book is a 4.9*** I loved it so much and I need the next book ASAP, and with London Miller I can always count on not waiting years for a sequel and I respect that a lot.
November 29, 2016
A little disappointed. The series started strong -- I felt like we got to really know the characters and come to care for them. As this series has progressed, I definitely don't feel like I got to know the characters enough. I couldn't really feel the same kind of empathy that I had for the Volkov series and earlier books in "The Den." In addition, I am actually starting to get confused by the plot. Part of that is the typos -- all London Miller books are full of them. Sometimes, the author actually attributes an action to the wrong person, and you have to kind of sort it out. There is not a great editor involved here, that is for sure. That stuff should be caught. Regardless, I will keep reading the series because it is interesting. However put it this way, I actually put this book down for awhile to read another book, and then went back to it. That never happens with me.
February 5, 2017
4.5
This book was incredible. I love Nix so much. Luna's story will hit you right in the feels as she overcomes all obstacles and betrayals.
The only issue was that I found the book to be really long. I love a complex plot as much as the next girl, but this is a little out of control. Even still, I loved it and couldn't put it down.
This book was incredible. I love Nix so much. Luna's story will hit you right in the feels as she overcomes all obstacles and betrayals.
The only issue was that I found the book to be really long. I love a complex plot as much as the next girl, but this is a little out of control. Even still, I loved it and couldn't put it down.
Read
May 6, 2022Grabbed this on a free or 99c deal and only realized after I started it that it ended on a cliff-hanger. Dropped it after the first chapter. Stro Strong start and I might have kept going if the second volume was available on apple.
February 7, 2023
im in awe of london miller and her mind. HOW DID SHE THINK OF THIS???????? ughh i can’t wait to rr the kingmaker series ALL THE UILLEAM KARINA CRUMBS ARE LITERALLY MAKING ME SHAKE
February 6, 2017
5 - She did it again - Stars
When it comes to London Miller I assure you're in for one hell of a ride, amazing writing style and unforgettable characters, but I don't even know how she does it, she just keeps getting better and better.
This series, this author, this character needs way more attention!
Nix book was highly anticipated, every time we've got a little glimpse of Luna and Kit relationships in the last 2 Den books i would get excited because you could honestly feel all the tension between this too but also you could feel a lot of other feelings, love included.
London Miller offers and amazing first book for this couple and honestly I couldn't have hoped for more, thus installment fills all the doubts behind their story and I couldn't be more excited Calavera.
When it comes to London Miller I assure you're in for one hell of a ride, amazing writing style and unforgettable characters, but I don't even know how she does it, she just keeps getting better and better.
This series, this author, this character needs way more attention!
Nix book was highly anticipated, every time we've got a little glimpse of Luna and Kit relationships in the last 2 Den books i would get excited because you could honestly feel all the tension between this too but also you could feel a lot of other feelings, love included.
London Miller offers and amazing first book for this couple and honestly I couldn't have hoped for more, thus installment fills all the doubts behind their story and I couldn't be more excited Calavera.
February 3, 2017
This book is difficult to rate - on one side the plot full of action and the well-drafted characters are great as always, the author never disappoints with that. But on the other side several typos, missing words and mixed up names were utterly annoying, even up to the point of confusion, where I had to re-read some sentences or whole paragraphs a few times and still didn't understand the meaning of them at all. Around 80% the H was standing in the house of his adversary and signing a contract and in the next sentence he was driving in a car and arguing with his assistant - without a space inbetween to separate two paragraphs or to indicate a change of scenery, very confusing. All in all I would settle for a narrow 4 star rating, but only because the book itself was really good. It would have been perfect, if it was being proofread and edited thoroughly.
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