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Holiday With a Hitman #1
How the Hitman Stole Christmas
Tis the season for a grumpy-sunshine romance with a side of murder and mayhem!
She hates Christmas and everything that goes with it…
Explosives expert Elliana hates Christmas—and the only good thing about this holiday season is that her gorgeous neighbor seems allergic to shirts and clothes in general. She knows because she’s been watching him for months with her drone. She’s never stalked anyone before, but he not only doesn’t seem to mind, he puts on nightly strip shows just for her. When she finally works up the courage to talk to him, she stumbles right into a murder—that he’s committed.
But this holiday is one she’ll never forget…
According to Theo, the whole murder thing is no big deal—the dead guy needed killing. And while her hot neighbor wants her, protecting her is his main priority. So when she’s targeted, this cinnamon roll hitman kidnaps her for her own good. With a deadly threat hunting them and a hot hitman who keeps handcuffing her to him “for her own protection”, Elliana is starting to reconsider her grinchy stance on the holidays. And when everything finally comes to a head, the results are bound to be…explosive.
She hates Christmas and everything that goes with it…
Explosives expert Elliana hates Christmas—and the only good thing about this holiday season is that her gorgeous neighbor seems allergic to shirts and clothes in general. She knows because she’s been watching him for months with her drone. She’s never stalked anyone before, but he not only doesn’t seem to mind, he puts on nightly strip shows just for her. When she finally works up the courage to talk to him, she stumbles right into a murder—that he’s committed.
But this holiday is one she’ll never forget…
According to Theo, the whole murder thing is no big deal—the dead guy needed killing. And while her hot neighbor wants her, protecting her is his main priority. So when she’s targeted, this cinnamon roll hitman kidnaps her for her own good. With a deadly threat hunting them and a hot hitman who keeps handcuffing her to him “for her own protection”, Elliana is starting to reconsider her grinchy stance on the holidays. And when everything finally comes to a head, the results are bound to be…explosive.
151 pages, Paperback
First published October 24, 2023
145 people are currently reading
10348 people want to read
About the author
Katie Reus
157 books3,226 followersKatie Reus® is the USA Today bestselling author of the Endgame trilogy, the MacArthur Family series and the Deadly Ops series. She fell in love with romance at a young age thanks to books she pilfered from her mom's stash. Years later she loves reading romance almost as much as she loves writing it. However, she didn't always know she wanted to be a writer. After changing majors many times, she finally graduated with a degree in psychology. Not long after that she discovered a new love. Writing. She now spends her days writing paranormal romance and sexy romantic suspense.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 304 reviews
November 27, 2023
“I love you, Elliana Reed. So put me out of my misery and tell me you love me too.”
this was so unserious, unrealistic and unhinged so did i enjoyed it? duh 🙄
there was serial killers 🔪, stalking🕵🏼♀️, voyeurism👀(for each other), hitmen🔫, Christmas 🎄 vibe. i don’t know what are you expecting more to read this? 🤨
i love a good stalking when it’s mutual🫦 watching your neighbor stripping with your drone? yes please 👩🦯 your neighbor hacking everything about you? also yes please😍
if i didn’t convince you to read this yet here some random pictures about it🤪💋😍
his marriage “proposal” was the best partttt🤭🤭🤭🤭🤭🩷🩷🩷🩷🩷
this was so unserious, unrealistic and unhinged so did i enjoyed it? duh 🙄
there was serial killers 🔪, stalking🕵🏼♀️, voyeurism👀(for each other), hitmen🔫, Christmas 🎄 vibe. i don’t know what are you expecting more to read this? 🤨
i love a good stalking when it’s mutual🫦 watching your neighbor stripping with your drone? yes please 👩🦯 your neighbor hacking everything about you? also yes please😍
if i didn’t convince you to read this yet here some random pictures about it🤪💋😍
his marriage “proposal” was the best partttt🤭🤭🤭🤭🤭🩷🩷🩷🩷🩷
October 24, 2023
How the Hitman Stoke Christmas by Katie Reus
Holiday with a Hitman series #1. Holiday Romance, romantic suspense.
Elliana is not a fan of the Christmas holiday. Her neighbor seems to be the exact opposite with plenty of outdoor decorations. But it’s really his indoor decorations that Elliana is interested in. She’s been using her drone to spy on him and he’s given her quite an explicit show. Maybe she’ll take him a little Christmas gift so she can actually meet the hottie next door.
Theo Contos knows his neighbor is enjoying their little game of spying. Once he figured out she wasn’t planning to kill him, he wasn’t opposed to giving her a little show and hopefully he can influence her appreciation for the holiday season.
Steamy, amusing and not quite halfway to dark, this holiday novel was a joy to read. And since his entire family and neighborhood is “in the business”, I can’t wait to see what the next situation is that requires a Hitman rescue.
Theo has depth that’s revealed as the story progresses. He goes from single hot mystery man next door, to family man planning for the future. I expected a bit more steam from the teasing start.
Holiday with a Hitman series #1. Holiday Romance, romantic suspense.
Elliana is not a fan of the Christmas holiday. Her neighbor seems to be the exact opposite with plenty of outdoor decorations. But it’s really his indoor decorations that Elliana is interested in. She’s been using her drone to spy on him and he’s given her quite an explicit show. Maybe she’ll take him a little Christmas gift so she can actually meet the hottie next door.
Theo Contos knows his neighbor is enjoying their little game of spying. Once he figured out she wasn’t planning to kill him, he wasn’t opposed to giving her a little show and hopefully he can influence her appreciation for the holiday season.
Steamy, amusing and not quite halfway to dark, this holiday novel was a joy to read. And since his entire family and neighborhood is “in the business”, I can’t wait to see what the next situation is that requires a Hitman rescue.
Theo has depth that’s revealed as the story progresses. He goes from single hot mystery man next door, to family man planning for the future. I expected a bit more steam from the teasing start.
October 24, 2023
I think this is about to be the most unhelpful and confusing review... but here we go.
This was a 2.5 stars rounded up for me. I didn't like this nor did I hate it. There were some positive aspects - a Christmas romance mixed with murder/thriller-ish, right up my alley! I found the pacing to be pretty good, and I enjoyed reading about some of the sweet friendships that the FMC had and enjoyed the fact this was short (maybe that speaks a bit to the story).
But then, there were quite a few parts of this that gave me the 'ick'.
I preface the next part of my review with I have never read a dark romance (unless you count mindf*ck, which I don't because it's totally a crime thriller), so this is a completely uneducated opinion, a bit of a guess or a vibe so please feel free to educate me... I also have nothing against dark romance or dark romance readers - I think this borders on what I imagine would be classified as 'dark romance' and because of this I think there will be a lot of readers who will enjoy it. The reason I think it's a bit outside of just the 'romance' genre and more leaning towards 'dark' (again, never read so take this with a grain of salt) is because there are just so many morally grey decisions, actions, everything! It gave me the creeps a bit just reading some of things that were going on in this book. Interestingly, if the morally grey decision making is why Mindf*ck is considered dark romance, then maybe it's because of the genders in each... I don't know.
As to whether I'd recommend this to other readers, I also don't know. If you like Christmas romances and hitman or murder themes, then you may enjoy it but just be cautious going in because parts may just not be enjoyable to read if you're anything like me.
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher and author for my eARC in exchange for my honest review.
Anticipated publication date: 24 October 2023 (today!)
Please check online for TW and CW.
This was a 2.5 stars rounded up for me. I didn't like this nor did I hate it. There were some positive aspects - a Christmas romance mixed with murder/thriller-ish, right up my alley! I found the pacing to be pretty good, and I enjoyed reading about some of the sweet friendships that the FMC had and enjoyed the fact this was short (maybe that speaks a bit to the story).
But then, there were quite a few parts of this that gave me the 'ick'.
I preface the next part of my review with I have never read a dark romance (unless you count mindf*ck, which I don't because it's totally a crime thriller), so this is a completely uneducated opinion, a bit of a guess or a vibe so please feel free to educate me... I also have nothing against dark romance or dark romance readers - I think this borders on what I imagine would be classified as 'dark romance' and because of this I think there will be a lot of readers who will enjoy it. The reason I think it's a bit outside of just the 'romance' genre and more leaning towards 'dark' (again, never read so take this with a grain of salt) is because there are just so many morally grey decisions, actions, everything! It gave me the creeps a bit just reading some of things that were going on in this book. Interestingly, if the morally grey decision making is why Mindf*ck is considered dark romance, then maybe it's because of the genders in each... I don't know.
As to whether I'd recommend this to other readers, I also don't know. If you like Christmas romances and hitman or murder themes, then you may enjoy it but just be cautious going in because parts may just not be enjoyable to read if you're anything like me.
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher and author for my eARC in exchange for my honest review.
Anticipated publication date: 24 October 2023 (today!)
Please check online for TW and CW.
December 5, 2023
How The Hitman Stole Christmas (Holiday with a Hitman, #1) by Katie Reus
Synopsis /
Explosives expert Elliana hates Christmas—and the only good thing about this holiday season is that her gorgeous neighbour seems allergic to shirts and clothes in general. She knows because she’s been watching him for months with her drone. She’s never stalked anyone before, but he not only doesn’t seem to mind, he puts on nightly strip shows just for her. When she finally works up the courage to talk to him, she stumbles right into a murder—that he’s committed.
But this holiday is one she’ll never forget…
According to him, the whole murder thing is no big deal—the dead guy needed killing. And while her hot neighbour wants her, protecting her is his main priority. So when she’s targeted, this cinnamon roll hitman kidnaps her for her own good. With a deadly threat hunting them and a hot hitman who keeps handcuffing her to him “for her own protection”, Elliana is starting to reconsider her grinchy stance on the holidays. And when everything finally comes to a head, the results are bound to be…explosive.
My Thoughts /
I wasn't sure what to expect from this one, but let me just say, it's more Christmas than Hitman. More romance than murder. More spice than a hot tamale. A quick spicy read set during the Christmas holidays.
Retired military explosives expert, Elliana Reed should feel bad about spying on her neighbour Theo, but it seems to her that he's enjoying it. Why else would the man leave the curtains open and then walk around naked?
Theo Contos knows his neighbour Eli is watching, but what she doesn't know is that he's watching her as much as she's watching him. Theo's been wanting to introduce himself for a while, but he's not sure how Eli will react when he finds out Theo is part of a family business. You see, Theo's father is a hitman. So is his mother. In fact, all his siblings have joined the family business. However, Theo is not your average hitman (is there such a thing?), he has 'standards'. He only kills those that truly deserve it (again, is there such a thing?). If you can get yourself past the ludicrous lack of ethics for a hitman, Theo's not a bad character.
He’d never met a woman he thought could ever understand him. Understand his lifestyle. Because what he did was very much illegal in all countries. He’d essentially been raised by wolves—not literally of course, but his parents were both hitmen. Both killers. All his friends were hitmen. Or most of them anyway. Their circle was tight-knit and the chance of finding someone who wanted to be part of his life… He’d thought he’d be alone forever. Until explosives and security expert Elliana Reed had started watching him with a whole lot more than curiosity.
When Theo's father contacts him and lets him know that someone has ordered a hit on his neighbour, Elliana, Theo decides that the only way to keep her safe is to kidnap her. Considering this will be their first 'official' meeting, you can imagine how this goes down with Eli.
Can Theo keep Elliana safe and at the same time, convince her his feelings for her are genuine?
Steamy, amusing, yet totally ludicrous plot. A very easy to read novella with a Christmas theme. Now you'll have to excuse me, I need to go and check out my neighbour! 😂
Synopsis /
Explosives expert Elliana hates Christmas—and the only good thing about this holiday season is that her gorgeous neighbour seems allergic to shirts and clothes in general. She knows because she’s been watching him for months with her drone. She’s never stalked anyone before, but he not only doesn’t seem to mind, he puts on nightly strip shows just for her. When she finally works up the courage to talk to him, she stumbles right into a murder—that he’s committed.
But this holiday is one she’ll never forget…
According to him, the whole murder thing is no big deal—the dead guy needed killing. And while her hot neighbour wants her, protecting her is his main priority. So when she’s targeted, this cinnamon roll hitman kidnaps her for her own good. With a deadly threat hunting them and a hot hitman who keeps handcuffing her to him “for her own protection”, Elliana is starting to reconsider her grinchy stance on the holidays. And when everything finally comes to a head, the results are bound to be…explosive.
My Thoughts /
I wasn't sure what to expect from this one, but let me just say, it's more Christmas than Hitman. More romance than murder. More spice than a hot tamale. A quick spicy read set during the Christmas holidays.
Retired military explosives expert, Elliana Reed should feel bad about spying on her neighbour Theo, but it seems to her that he's enjoying it. Why else would the man leave the curtains open and then walk around naked?
Theo Contos knows his neighbour Eli is watching, but what she doesn't know is that he's watching her as much as she's watching him. Theo's been wanting to introduce himself for a while, but he's not sure how Eli will react when he finds out Theo is part of a family business. You see, Theo's father is a hitman. So is his mother. In fact, all his siblings have joined the family business. However, Theo is not your average hitman (is there such a thing?), he has 'standards'. He only kills those that truly deserve it (again, is there such a thing?). If you can get yourself past the ludicrous lack of ethics for a hitman, Theo's not a bad character.
He’d never met a woman he thought could ever understand him. Understand his lifestyle. Because what he did was very much illegal in all countries. He’d essentially been raised by wolves—not literally of course, but his parents were both hitmen. Both killers. All his friends were hitmen. Or most of them anyway. Their circle was tight-knit and the chance of finding someone who wanted to be part of his life… He’d thought he’d be alone forever. Until explosives and security expert Elliana Reed had started watching him with a whole lot more than curiosity.
When Theo's father contacts him and lets him know that someone has ordered a hit on his neighbour, Elliana, Theo decides that the only way to keep her safe is to kidnap her. Considering this will be their first 'official' meeting, you can imagine how this goes down with Eli.
Can Theo keep Elliana safe and at the same time, convince her his feelings for her are genuine?
Steamy, amusing, yet totally ludicrous plot. A very easy to read novella with a Christmas theme. Now you'll have to excuse me, I need to go and check out my neighbour! 😂
October 10, 2023
This was a super cute reverse sunshine-grumpy romance decorated with a dash of action and suspense. I never thought I'd enjoy a grumpy heroine but I absolutely loved Elliana's disgruntlement towards all things Christmas. Especially because of Theo's determination to bring her Christmas cheer.
This is novella length but it has all that makes for a longer read and written in a way that I didn't feel short changed. Theo and Elliana were so much fun together. I loved how he had "murdery" reactions when his protective instincts kicked into overdrive regarding her.
Characters we've previously met were included and the overall feeling was one of a close knit family. There is plenty of steam but it doesn't consume the whole book. This is a perfect read to kick off the holidays.
Dual POV
Safe
Triggers
Steam
This is novella length but it has all that makes for a longer read and written in a way that I didn't feel short changed. Theo and Elliana were so much fun together. I loved how he had "murdery" reactions when his protective instincts kicked into overdrive regarding her.
Characters we've previously met were included and the overall feeling was one of a close knit family. There is plenty of steam but it doesn't consume the whole book. This is a perfect read to kick off the holidays.
Dual POV
Safe
Triggers
Steam
November 30, 2023
I think this is a read where you need to suspend your disbelief and go in just wanting to have pure escapism. One of those books where you settle in for some silliness and OTTness. These aren't usually my favorite reads and while I did finish it, I didn't love the sometimes chaotic and very insta-feelings of How the Hitman Stole Christmas. Other friends had way more fun reading though so please don't let me feeling discourage anyone from checking it out for themselves. This is a reverse grumpy/sunshine trope and that aspect is done very well. Written in third person, dual POV. No ow/om drama and neither are virgins (both have been celibate).
The premise of the book is that the h has been spying on the H, who blatantly encourages said spying. When she finally gets the nerve to say hi to him, she discovers that he's a killer through a snafu...but she doesn't turn him in. Then the H uncovers some scary info, forcing him to kidnap her, and they do a bit of bonding, share some spicy times, and resolve a dangerous situation. The h's friends were supportive and the H's family was just as crazy as he was, but in that same sort of endearing way. The ending is their HEA/HFN of them engaged. Everything just happened so quickly and in spite of the h's own reservations. It does appear that other hit people (since there are men and women in the profession) are set up to have their own books and at least one couple would have more development since it hinted at major pining happening.
The premise of the book is that the h has been spying on the H, who blatantly encourages said spying. When she finally gets the nerve to say hi to him, she discovers that he's a killer through a snafu...but she doesn't turn him in. Then the H uncovers some scary info, forcing him to kidnap her, and they do a bit of bonding, share some spicy times, and resolve a dangerous situation. The h's friends were supportive and the H's family was just as crazy as he was, but in that same sort of endearing way. The ending is their HEA/HFN of them engaged. Everything just happened so quickly and in spite of the h's own reservations. It does appear that other hit people (since there are men and women in the profession) are set up to have their own books and at least one couple would have more development since it hinted at major pining happening.
December 8, 2023
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
This was such a fun, spicy, action-packed, holiday read. When I saw grumpy sunshine I instantly knew I’d love it but I loved it even more when I realized the FMC was the grumpy one!
As you can guess from the title, the book follows a mysterious “hitman” and his equally mysterious neighbor as they find themselves in the most unlikely and weirdest situations one could ever think of.
Theo’s obsession with Elliana is evident from the very beginning and never wavers. Almost every single one of my highlights in this book stem from his passion and infatuation with her. It’s definitely one of the best parts about the book.
This is a very morally grey storyline from beginning to end and I was all in and loved every second of it.
This is a short one so if you’re looking for a slow burn, this isn’t it. Things are very fast paced including the action!
This was my first ever read of Katie Reus’ and I know she has many more books so I will be diving head first into all of those RIGHT AWAY!
🌶️🌶️🌶️
This was such a fun, spicy, action-packed, holiday read. When I saw grumpy sunshine I instantly knew I’d love it but I loved it even more when I realized the FMC was the grumpy one!
As you can guess from the title, the book follows a mysterious “hitman” and his equally mysterious neighbor as they find themselves in the most unlikely and weirdest situations one could ever think of.
Theo’s obsession with Elliana is evident from the very beginning and never wavers. Almost every single one of my highlights in this book stem from his passion and infatuation with her. It’s definitely one of the best parts about the book.
This is a very morally grey storyline from beginning to end and I was all in and loved every second of it.
This is a short one so if you’re looking for a slow burn, this isn’t it. Things are very fast paced including the action!
This was my first ever read of Katie Reus’ and I know she has many more books so I will be diving head first into all of those RIGHT AWAY!
December 12, 2024
Sitting in her favorite chair, Elliana stared out her favorite window. Having a favorite window was a new thing, but it was the one that gave her the perfect view of her neighbor.
Her very hot neighbor.
Who she was very much stalking.
Though she wasn’t sure if it counted as stalking if he knew she was watching him with her drone and binoculars. And he definitely did. In fact, he seemed to be encouraging her.
How was he encouraging her, you might wonder? By stripping and masturbating for her viewing pleasure. Furthermore, he has determined from afar and without a word passing between them that she is IT for him. Too bad he was in the process of murdering someone the first time they met in person.
A piece of serious writing this isn’t. It is, however, an amusing alternate reality where hitmen have entire neighborhoods to themselves and nebulous organizations where murder contracts are common knowledge and hot girls are kidnapped for their own protection and nothing makes sense because it’s intended to be just filthy, superficial fun.
I hope. Otherwise I’ll have to lower my rating.
Her very hot neighbor.
Who she was very much stalking.
Though she wasn’t sure if it counted as stalking if he knew she was watching him with her drone and binoculars. And he definitely did. In fact, he seemed to be encouraging her.
How was he encouraging her, you might wonder? By stripping and masturbating for her viewing pleasure. Furthermore, he has determined from afar and without a word passing between them that she is IT for him. Too bad he was in the process of murdering someone the first time they met in person.
A piece of serious writing this isn’t. It is, however, an amusing alternate reality where hitmen have entire neighborhoods to themselves and nebulous organizations where murder contracts are common knowledge and hot girls are kidnapped for their own protection and nothing makes sense because it’s intended to be just filthy, superficial fun.
I hope. Otherwise I’ll have to lower my rating.
October 19, 2023
Elli has been drone stalking her hot next door boyfriend and finally decides to introduce herself only to realize he's just murdered someone. But he's hot so it's ok ;).
This is a super cute, sexy, fun Christmas novella that is a must read for the season.
This book is short and to the point which I like, but would have also read it had it been twice as long. I loved the characters and hope to see more of them in future books.
Thank you NetGalley. KR Press, LLC and Katie Reus for access to the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This is a super cute, sexy, fun Christmas novella that is a must read for the season.
This book is short and to the point which I like, but would have also read it had it been twice as long. I loved the characters and hope to see more of them in future books.
Thank you NetGalley. KR Press, LLC and Katie Reus for access to the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
dnf
November 21, 2023DNFed at the 50% mark - enough said.
December 5, 2024
This was a wonderful book with a "this just can't happen" plot that was fun, romantic and had a mystery too. I loved how Theo just wouldn't give up on Elliana and finally was able to get her to see what Christmas was all about, while keeping her alive, of course.
Elliana was an explosives expert in the Marines and now she is a partner in a premier securities firm. She doesn't celebrate Christmas since her family betrayed her on Christmas Eve years ago. She doesn't want the memories. Her hottie next-door neighbor has been giving her quite a show for several months and she has decided to finally make contact with a gift of his favorite coffee. What she stumbles into is beyond her wildest imagination.
Theo has been entertaining his next-door neighbor for months and when she turns up on his doorstep at a most inopportune time, he doesn't want the chance to connect with her even if he is in the middle of a very nasty job. When through his professional contacts he discovers that a contract has been issued for Elliana, he will stop at nothing, even kidnapping her, to keep her safe.
Take charge Elliana is stunned to learn that Theo is a hitman and just devastated to learn there is a contract on her life. She is not very forgiving of his methods but appreciated that he wants to keep her safe. It will take both of them working together to neutralize the thread to Elliana's life but there is no way to neutralize the threat to her heat.
Elliana was an explosives expert in the Marines and now she is a partner in a premier securities firm. She doesn't celebrate Christmas since her family betrayed her on Christmas Eve years ago. She doesn't want the memories. Her hottie next-door neighbor has been giving her quite a show for several months and she has decided to finally make contact with a gift of his favorite coffee. What she stumbles into is beyond her wildest imagination.
Theo has been entertaining his next-door neighbor for months and when she turns up on his doorstep at a most inopportune time, he doesn't want the chance to connect with her even if he is in the middle of a very nasty job. When through his professional contacts he discovers that a contract has been issued for Elliana, he will stop at nothing, even kidnapping her, to keep her safe.
Take charge Elliana is stunned to learn that Theo is a hitman and just devastated to learn there is a contract on her life. She is not very forgiving of his methods but appreciated that he wants to keep her safe. It will take both of them working together to neutralize the thread to Elliana's life but there is no way to neutralize the threat to her heat.
January 10, 2024
This is such a cute story and so funny.
November 14, 2023
4.5 stars
Hitman shenanigans!
This was super fun. Who hasn’t spied on their hot neighbour who likes to put on strip shows for an audience of one, only to find out he’s a murderer… but no big deal, he’s a cinnamon roll hitman who only kills bad people that need killing.
The holiday romance novella I didn’t know I needed.
Hitman shenanigans!
This was super fun. Who hasn’t spied on their hot neighbour who likes to put on strip shows for an audience of one, only to find out he’s a murderer… but no big deal, he’s a cinnamon roll hitman who only kills bad people that need killing.
The holiday romance novella I didn’t know I needed.
November 30, 2023
Toss up here, Christmas rom coms can be a hit or miss for yours truly. I obviously don't learn and it seems it might stay that way.
Or it could be me and not the book or it could be the book and not me. I love myself some funny but you just have to go with the flow on this one.
Or it could be me and not the book or it could be the book and not me. I love myself some funny but you just have to go with the flow on this one.
October 16, 2023
So, what happens when a grinchy but sexy finally meets the gorgeous Christmas obsessed hitman next door? Well, nothing short of chaos ensuing in this hilarious holiday short romance by Katie Reus in her new Holidays with a Hitman series. I have to tell you I was a little bit surprised when I read the blurb for this one, but I knew that I was going to love it and be laughing even as I fell in love right alongside the characters as they finally got to know one another. Katie Reus has a way of making you forget the ridiculousness of a hitman and an explosives expert hacker falling in lust through voyeurism and then falling in love through kidnapping and just reminds you that there is a perfect someone made for everyone out there. In the Case of Elliana, her perfect someone turned out to the be sexy man she’s been perving on for almost a year, but little did she know when she finally went to introduce herself that she was putting herself into a seriously confusing situation. Theo Contos has been obsessed with Elliana since he first found her watching him, but being a hitman, he knows introducing her to his life is going to be tricky, until she stumbles right into the middle of ones of his jobs and things become complicated. Now she’s got a hit out on her and he will do anything to protect her, even kidnap her and make she that she is safe long enough to make sure she understands that he intends to make her his. Theo and Elliana each have their own ideas of how their relationship will be progressing—or not as the case may be—but soon the heated chemistry between them is too much to resist and they can’t keep their hands of one another. But will that be enough to overcome their hangups and find a way to trust and work together to defeat the asshole after Elliana and build a future together?
I have to say I was really surprised by the turn of events in this story, but I loved every moment of it, whether I was laughing, crying, or gasping for breath as the dangerous action unfolded. Theo and his family were hilarious, because why not have such a loving, sweet family of hit people that are determined to run their son’s life, but it was obvious they were supportive and wonderful people, despite their chosen profession. Theo himself was a sweetheart and despite being a vigilante style hitman I loved him I loved getting to know him. He was strong, solid, loving, brave, humorous, and cheerful, which you just really don’t expect in a hitman, but he was also just alpha enough to keep Elliana from running all over him. Elliana is a serious badass, smart, sassy, down to earth, and just plain cool. I loved watching her stand up to Theo in the beginning and then stand up for herself as their relationship progressed, even as she fell in love with him. It’s obvious these two lost souls were meant to connect with one another, the perfect match of light to darkness and I can see them being together long years in the future. I am hoping to see more of them in the coming installments in the series, and I have an inkling of who the next book might be about, but I will keep my guesses to myself for now and just keep my fingers crossed. As always, the holidays aspect of this story, serves more as a background foil for the storyline and character development as opposed to being the main focus of the story which makes me even happier because then it can be truly read any time of the year. Another classic Katie masterwork!
I have to say I was really surprised by the turn of events in this story, but I loved every moment of it, whether I was laughing, crying, or gasping for breath as the dangerous action unfolded. Theo and his family were hilarious, because why not have such a loving, sweet family of hit people that are determined to run their son’s life, but it was obvious they were supportive and wonderful people, despite their chosen profession. Theo himself was a sweetheart and despite being a vigilante style hitman I loved him I loved getting to know him. He was strong, solid, loving, brave, humorous, and cheerful, which you just really don’t expect in a hitman, but he was also just alpha enough to keep Elliana from running all over him. Elliana is a serious badass, smart, sassy, down to earth, and just plain cool. I loved watching her stand up to Theo in the beginning and then stand up for herself as their relationship progressed, even as she fell in love with him. It’s obvious these two lost souls were meant to connect with one another, the perfect match of light to darkness and I can see them being together long years in the future. I am hoping to see more of them in the coming installments in the series, and I have an inkling of who the next book might be about, but I will keep my guesses to myself for now and just keep my fingers crossed. As always, the holidays aspect of this story, serves more as a background foil for the storyline and character development as opposed to being the main focus of the story which makes me even happier because then it can be truly read any time of the year. Another classic Katie masterwork!
December 31, 2024
3.5⭐️ this was a fun short read!
September 26, 2023
Such a wonderful story. I would definitely read this again. A different kind of hit man story and a spin on love. If you love romance and action this is the book for you.
November 2, 2024
Read it! Loved it! Totally my kind of hero and heroine. I definitely want to read more about the other Hitmen. Theo was perfect! A total chef's kiss and Elliana is his perfect counterpart. There were soooooo many laugh out loud moments, from the voyeuristic, stalkerish tendency from both of them to each other, to his parents, to her dislike of Christmas, to his constant need to be with her, Theo knew she was the one! I laughed so much! This is one of Ms. Reus's best books yet, and I've read practically all of them. I love this one. 5 stars🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
****I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book provided by NetGalley*****
****I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book provided by NetGalley*****
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 22, 2023
4.5⭐
Meet Elliana who has been spying on her hot neighbour for months, using her favourite drone to watch him undress and workout Elliana is definitely smitten.
And her neighbour Theo knows it. In fact he likes to put on a show just for her. So when Elliana arrives on his doorstep with a Christmas hamper in hand even though she hates Christmas. Theo is delighted, or he would be if not for the guy he's holding hostage in his house.
Which unfortunately means he has to temporarily hold Elliana hostage too. Just so he can deal with the situation he's found himself in.
But Elliana is wily and manages to escape back home.
Only she doesn't call the police instead, she just continues to watch Theo because Theo has a very interesting story to tell and it's a story that ends up saving her life.
And with the perfect amount of suspense, humour, heat and sweetness. This was a truly enjoyable and quirky Christmas romance, and I genuinely can't wait to read more from this series in the future.
I would also happily recommend How the Hitman Stole Christmas to others.
My thanks to NetGalley for the opportunity to read an early copy of this story. 😊
Meet Elliana who has been spying on her hot neighbour for months, using her favourite drone to watch him undress and workout Elliana is definitely smitten.
And her neighbour Theo knows it. In fact he likes to put on a show just for her. So when Elliana arrives on his doorstep with a Christmas hamper in hand even though she hates Christmas. Theo is delighted, or he would be if not for the guy he's holding hostage in his house.
Which unfortunately means he has to temporarily hold Elliana hostage too. Just so he can deal with the situation he's found himself in.
But Elliana is wily and manages to escape back home.
Only she doesn't call the police instead, she just continues to watch Theo because Theo has a very interesting story to tell and it's a story that ends up saving her life.
And with the perfect amount of suspense, humour, heat and sweetness. This was a truly enjoyable and quirky Christmas romance, and I genuinely can't wait to read more from this series in the future.
I would also happily recommend How the Hitman Stole Christmas to others.
My thanks to NetGalley for the opportunity to read an early copy of this story. 😊
September 22, 2023
Thank you to Netgalley and the author for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Overall 3.5 stars (rounded up to 4 as I enjoyed it and can't do half stars).
I enjoyed the plot and how easy it was to read and follow. Definitely a quick and fun holiday read. Although the holiday theme is more about the time of year than a theme itself of the book throughout.
I do wish there was a little bit more spice and tension before the plot started moving. Although we time the time frame the characters knew each other however wish that some backstory or lead up was explored a bit more.
I'm not really a fan of 'instalove' type of books however it worked for this one. The theme and feelings started from the beginning so it fit better than out of the blue that usually happens in books I've read.
Overall I thought this was a fun read and would read again.
Overall 3.5 stars (rounded up to 4 as I enjoyed it and can't do half stars).
I enjoyed the plot and how easy it was to read and follow. Definitely a quick and fun holiday read. Although the holiday theme is more about the time of year than a theme itself of the book throughout.
I do wish there was a little bit more spice and tension before the plot started moving. Although we time the time frame the characters knew each other however wish that some backstory or lead up was explored a bit more.
I'm not really a fan of 'instalove' type of books however it worked for this one. The theme and feelings started from the beginning so it fit better than out of the blue that usually happens in books I've read.
Overall I thought this was a fun read and would read again.
October 31, 2023
3.75 stars
This was so much fun!
I thought it was going to be a lot darker, but no! It was perfectly balanced.
I liked both mcs, although the hero was a bit too much at times, but overall, it was a super fun read.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publishers for the chance to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
This was so much fun!
I thought it was going to be a lot darker, but no! It was perfectly balanced.
I liked both mcs, although the hero was a bit too much at times, but overall, it was a super fun read.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publishers for the chance to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
October 3, 2023
I would like to thank NetGalley for this eARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
This book moves lightning fast. The action begins almost immediately, and continues throughout. This is a tiny book, clocking in around 166 pages, so it reads really quickly. I feel like some people will enjoy the speed with which they can move through the book, but the lack of length detracts from being able to really build the characters. Our FMC is a former military bombs expert and she's crushing hard on the (originally unbeknownst to her) actual hitman next door. When a hit is taken out on her, he kidnaps her to keep her safe, while they figure out what to do about the contract and the other hitman. Their attraction and intimacy is immediate, which feels farfetched even for a book about falling for a hitman. But, even with the utter impossibility and ridiculousness of the plot, I found this book to be quite funny. The banter between characters is playful, and I actually quite enjoyed reading it.
This book moves lightning fast. The action begins almost immediately, and continues throughout. This is a tiny book, clocking in around 166 pages, so it reads really quickly. I feel like some people will enjoy the speed with which they can move through the book, but the lack of length detracts from being able to really build the characters. Our FMC is a former military bombs expert and she's crushing hard on the (originally unbeknownst to her) actual hitman next door. When a hit is taken out on her, he kidnaps her to keep her safe, while they figure out what to do about the contract and the other hitman. Their attraction and intimacy is immediate, which feels farfetched even for a book about falling for a hitman. But, even with the utter impossibility and ridiculousness of the plot, I found this book to be quite funny. The banter between characters is playful, and I actually quite enjoyed reading it.
September 29, 2023
Thank you to Katie Reus, KR Press and NetGalley for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Elliana is an ex marine and explosive expert who we first heard about in Protecting Rebel. She uses her drone to spy on her neighbor and they have a mutual relationship from afar, but when she finally goes over to say hello in person, she walks into a murder scene.
I thought the premise of this book was so unique and I had a blast reading it. I love Elliana and felt like she was a well developed character. I could understand her personality and while other people might think she is weird, she is unapologetically herself and pretty awesome. Theo was the perfect amount of morally grey for me, but also a goner for Elliana and a protector through and through. They had great banter. The story was funny, witty and had the perfect amount of holiday cheer.
This is Katie Reus at her finest. I would absolutely recommend and if any more books about other hitmen come out then I will be reading those as well.
Elliana is an ex marine and explosive expert who we first heard about in Protecting Rebel. She uses her drone to spy on her neighbor and they have a mutual relationship from afar, but when she finally goes over to say hello in person, she walks into a murder scene.
I thought the premise of this book was so unique and I had a blast reading it. I love Elliana and felt like she was a well developed character. I could understand her personality and while other people might think she is weird, she is unapologetically herself and pretty awesome. Theo was the perfect amount of morally grey for me, but also a goner for Elliana and a protector through and through. They had great banter. The story was funny, witty and had the perfect amount of holiday cheer.
This is Katie Reus at her finest. I would absolutely recommend and if any more books about other hitmen come out then I will be reading those as well.
September 23, 2023
How the Hitman Stole Christmas🎄
I absolutely loved Elliana and Theo’s story❣️ It was funny and quirky, but also intense and action packed. It was by far a favourite read for me this year and I look forward to more Hitman stories….Dante and Aileen in particular…hint hint😉
Not a traditional start to their relationship but when Elliana spies on her hot next door neighbour and he suddenly starts turning these into stripping sessions, she’s addicted. Theo is not your regular next door neighbour and when Elliana turns up on his doorstep, he mistakenly finds himself in a bit of a snit🙈
A must read Christmas holiday story that will have you smiling and laughing as you go. I received an advanced copy and voluntarily leave my honest review😍
I absolutely loved Elliana and Theo’s story❣️ It was funny and quirky, but also intense and action packed. It was by far a favourite read for me this year and I look forward to more Hitman stories….Dante and Aileen in particular…hint hint😉
Not a traditional start to their relationship but when Elliana spies on her hot next door neighbour and he suddenly starts turning these into stripping sessions, she’s addicted. Theo is not your regular next door neighbour and when Elliana turns up on his doorstep, he mistakenly finds himself in a bit of a snit🙈
A must read Christmas holiday story that will have you smiling and laughing as you go. I received an advanced copy and voluntarily leave my honest review😍
December 25, 2023
Cons: The writing felt repetitive, I didn't believe in the chemistry between the main characters, and overall I found the possessiveness and stalker-ish tendencies of both characters to really bring my enjoyment down a lot. There were also chapter headings that felt really ... cheesy and ridiculous to me, not in a fun way. Some of my gripes with the MFC are also just my personal preferences (I don't love billionaire romances generally speaking). Everything felt so rushed, like getting engaged after only really knowing each other for a week.
This may sound harsh, so I don't want to harp too much on this book when there is some good to be found.
Pros: There was some good banter. I think the premise in and of itself is interesting. The hitman aspect offered some fun action to be sure. It's not a bad choice for an over-the-top holiday read.
This just wasn't my perfect thing and that's okay. Perhaps I'll try another from this author in the future.
This may sound harsh, so I don't want to harp too much on this book when there is some good to be found.
Pros: There was some good banter. I think the premise in and of itself is interesting. The hitman aspect offered some fun action to be sure. It's not a bad choice for an over-the-top holiday read.
This just wasn't my perfect thing and that's okay. Perhaps I'll try another from this author in the future.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 23, 2023
I absolutely loved Theo in How the Hitman Stole Christmas. I loved that he fell fast and hard for Elliana and he proved he would do anything to keep her safe. I especially loved when his family got involved. This was a fun little novella and it has me wanting to read more for Christmas!
October 30, 2023
'I could never regret you'
This book was not what I expected but I LOVED it! It has a little bit of everything, forbidden fantasies, sexy stalking, kidnapping, heartbreak, murder, hilarious banter, dirty talkin', danger and a huge interfering but loving family...of Hitmen!
It is completely crazy in the best way and I love that Theo totally owns not only his profession, but also his feelings, his quirks and his love, it blindsided Ellianna but is exactly what she needs. Elli likes control and structure but with Theo she has none of that, she has also uncovered an unerving kink for stalking and watching her sexy neighbour, she knows it's weird and possibly wrong (even though he knows) but she cannot resist the sexy show he puts on for her! And if she cannot resist from afar, she has no hope of resisting him up close and in person.
A great read and I look forward to more in this series.
This book was not what I expected but I LOVED it! It has a little bit of everything, forbidden fantasies, sexy stalking, kidnapping, heartbreak, murder, hilarious banter, dirty talkin', danger and a huge interfering but loving family...of Hitmen!
It is completely crazy in the best way and I love that Theo totally owns not only his profession, but also his feelings, his quirks and his love, it blindsided Ellianna but is exactly what she needs. Elli likes control and structure but with Theo she has none of that, she has also uncovered an unerving kink for stalking and watching her sexy neighbour, she knows it's weird and possibly wrong (even though he knows) but she cannot resist the sexy show he puts on for her! And if she cannot resist from afar, she has no hope of resisting him up close and in person.
A great read and I look forward to more in this series.
October 23, 2023
would like to thank netgalley and the publisher for letting me read this amusing and serious at the same book who doesnt like christmas .... explosive expert Elliana hates it with a passion but at the moment all of her attention is on the her next door neighbour who she is spying on and he knows it... not only does he know but he also strips naked for her ...and she cant stop watching things get a bit weird when she goes round to his place with a gift for christmas and discovers that he is about to murder someone can she outrun him.... this has to be the funniest christmas short story i have ever read plus its very action packed with assassins and hitmen coming out of the woodwork looking forward to reading more from this author
October 24, 2023
I loved Theo and Elliana. Elliana is an ex-marine and expert on explosives and uses her drone to spy on her hot neighbor Theo in which he is a hitman, she doesn't know it initially. She goes to his house to talk to him and appears upon a murder scene (Theo kills bad guys as a hit man). His parents also hitmen, knows about Elliana and sends the hit to Theo. Well he kidnaps her to protect her and find out who wants her dead. This was also funny and its the perfect start to read holiday romance. I really enjoyed this one.
I received this book at my request and have voluntarily left this unbiased review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
I received this book at my request and have voluntarily left this unbiased review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
October 16, 2023
2.5⭐️
Thank you to Netgalley for providing me with an ARC of How the Hitman Stole Christmas by Katie Reus.
Unfortunately I did not love this one. The storyline felt bizarre and was so fast paced it confused me at times - I think this would have been better if it was a full length novel and not a novella.
However, there were aspects of the book I did enjoy. It definitely got me in the christmas mood and I loved the reverse grumpy/sunshine trope - a ‘cinnamon roll hitman’ is something I’ve never read before!
Thank you to Netgalley for providing me with an ARC of How the Hitman Stole Christmas by Katie Reus.
Unfortunately I did not love this one. The storyline felt bizarre and was so fast paced it confused me at times - I think this would have been better if it was a full length novel and not a novella.
However, there were aspects of the book I did enjoy. It definitely got me in the christmas mood and I loved the reverse grumpy/sunshine trope - a ‘cinnamon roll hitman’ is something I’ve never read before!
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