4 Stars

I know there’s a bit of divisiveness when it comes to this story but if you’ve read and liked Reese’s The Men of Halfway House series, I would hedge my bets that you’ll like this too. It doesn’t hurt at all that this is basically the love child of [b:Warrior's Cross|6782412|Warrior's Cross|Madeleine Urban|https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1355864076s/6782412.jpg|6916543] and [b:Zero at the Bone|6382879|Zero at the Bone (Zero at the Bone)|Jane Seville|https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1239008011s/6382879.jpg|6570901], which will either clinch your decision to read this book or avoid it all together.

I think with any assassin trope with a heart of gold, it is always a bit of a stretch for realistic progression. Killian has been doing this for years, basically bred and trained to take after his father, and he does it with utmost precision and skill. Killian doesn’t sugarcoat what he’s done to make a living, but he does have a conscience and a set of rules that he follows when accepting contracts. The only kink in Killian’s impenetrable armor is when he falls for equally mysterious waiter Nick, who doesn’t shy away from his intimidating nature and suspicious shady circumstances. Killian doesn't think anything will come of it because…. well, he’s a murderer. However, when Nick’s past catches up to him, Killian can’t not help him and thus, both quickly become embroiled in more danger than they bargained for.

Why this was a win for me is because Reese consistently writes her stories with plenty of swoon and emotions. All her protagonists have a moral compass despite their situation. They certainly have an endearing vulnerability and always plenty of baggage and turmoil. When they find that person who’s their soulmate it just clicks, and of course they’d do anything for the other to see them happy and safe.

So yes, this was a bit far fetched. However, Reese never shorts the reader on the writing nor does she fail on delivering the smex and the sweeping romance that always comes with a very satisfying happily ever after. Again, consistency is key and this is signature Reese! ( )

3.5. stars

Totally OTT, so it requires tons of suspension of disbelief. But it has great internal consistency, one of the traits I appreciate the most in any story. There is also great emotional intensity, my other obsession as a reader.

These two features raise my rating because if the story didn't have them, it would be almost absurd for a contemporary romance. ( )