Strings Attached

by M.A. Fréchette

A fledgling journalist. A masked killer. The scoop of the century, if she survives the interview...

I can’t die today. I don’t have time for it, not with only one paper standing between me and my master’s in journalism. But my meeting with my professor leads me on a wild goose chase that ends in a fake “office” with no way out—and a killer about to come through the door.

A masked killer I’ve been digging into for the scoop of the century. Obviously, I’m getting too close for his comfort. And I’m in possession of a file that could bring him down, or seal my fate.

What’s an intrepid reporter to do? Leave him a voice mail to arrange an interview. I can’t be the only one wondering why he uses playing cards to force his victims to choose how they’ll die. In exchange, I promise to erase every detail that could lead to his arrest.

So begins my tale of an interview with a murderer. An interview that leads me into a dark, twisted, and strangely arousing world of blood, sex, and the mystery of whether my heart will succumb to his sensual pleasures—or his knife.

Please read the TW at the start of the book.

Genres: Dark Romance

218 pages, ebook

Published August 1, 2025

About the author

M. A. Fréchette writes the darker side of romance.

Being an extremist, she loves both the dark aspects of life and everything sweet. All her stories are either set in Canada where she lives or in alternate worlds she made up while living within her imagination. When not writing, she thinks of the next scene or plot while enjoying video games. Although she has a fascination for monsters, with a bachelor degree in criminology, she understands there’s no need to create the paranormal; humans are capable of inflicting nightmares of their own.

Reviews

[Augustina Martinez · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book has illuminated the advantages of stepping outside one's comfort zone and engaging with genres that may not typically be of interest. The synopsis captured my attention, and I found the experience to be highly rewarding.

The narrative centers on Jack, a serial killer, and Jill, a student seeking to interview him for an academic report. Although this premise may initially appear unsuitable for a romantic storyline, it surprisingly develops into a compelling love story. It is an understatement to say that the characters face significant challenges throughout the plot. The book is rich with unexpected twists, and the chemistry between the protagonists is consistently engaging. Furthermore, the intensity of the romantic elements is among the most impressive I have encountered.

[Madison · Rating 3 out of 5]

This had a lot of potential but there were a few things that let it down for me. Firstly, the storyline didn’t feel fully developed, it was missing something to make it all flow together. I think it was a mixture of the writing and the characters themselves.

I also felt we lacked a proper backstory for the FMC, we had snippets here and there but it wasn’t much and I didn’t feel very connected to her. Our MMC starts out very intriguing but then it just drops and its like he becomes a normal guy.

This book could have been so so good but it was lacking in some areas.

[Zara · Rating 5 out of 5]

No Spoilers - Absolutely loved this, it had me hooked from page 1.. And sometimes I had to go back on myself as I couldn't quite believe what I'd read?

Jack and Jill - Jack kills those who deserve it by choosing Jack's from a pack of cards.. Jill asks questions abouts the killings to help complete her paper for college.

From "I don't want to die today" to erotic suspense.. Serial killer meets left over witness from years previous.

So glad there was a happy ending for them both though.

I really hope there's more to come!

[Michelle Bentzen · Rating 4 out of 5]

I overall enjoyed this book!
The first half i felt like I could have use a little more drama and suspense! But the second half was amazing! I really enjoyed how this book turned out, and I wish the first half was like the second half.
The fmc was a badass journalist that was on the hunt to interview the serial killer and that made the second half of the story amazing! Totally lived in it!

[Marina Kodic · Rating 4 out of 5]

Not the most interesting beginning, BUT..... The last half got me hooked! The storyline was really good. The only thing i really missed, was the MMC point of view. If we've had that, the progression of their relationship wouldn't seem so rushed at times. Loved the smut, the plot. Overall, 3,75 ⭐️

[Kelly Castillo · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Dark, Addictive Romance That Pulls All the Right Strings

Strings Attached by M.A. Fréchette is a bold, emotional rollercoaster that grabs you from the first page and never lets go. This is not your typical love story—it's raw, intense, and full of secrets that unravel layer by layer, keeping you hooked with every twist.

The characters are complex and real, especially the tortured, magnetic male lead and the strong, conflicted heroine. Their chemistry is explosive, and the tension between them is perfectly paced—equal parts seductive and dangerous. M.A. Fréchette masterfully explores themes of control, vulnerability, and desire, all while crafting a storyline that’s both heart-wrenching and beautiful.

What really stands out is the writing. It’s vivid, sharp, and emotionally charged. Every scene feels alive, and every choice the characters make feels like it matters. The psychological depth adds an extra layer that makes this story linger in your mind long after the final page.

If you’re a fan of dark romance with emotionally intense relationships, secrets, and high-stakes passion, Strings Attached is an absolute must-read. Fréchette delivers a compelling, unforgettable story that pulls at your heart—and never lets go.

[Anna Kratowicz · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was such a fun journey! I couldn't put it down. A quick read of dark romance, masked man, "crawl to me", morally gray MMC and FMC, with splashes of fun banter between the two and twists and turns of the plot.

I love the pairing of a journalist researching serial killers for this masked men dark romance trope. It feels like a more natural pairing for a masked man romance. Jill and her masked man strike a deal so she can author her thesis with added depth to the insight of a serial killer - information in exchange for favor.

As the story progresses, we learn history behind why both the FMC and MMC have grown into the people they are today and we get to see the relationship start to form and the lines get gray between this deal they arranged.

[Cassie Everett · Rating 4 out of 5]

I ate this book UP. The first few chapters seemed slow but once things picked up, I couldn’t set it down.

I am a sucker for a masked man and badass FMC. This book delivered both, perfectly.

I do wish there had been a deeper dive into the FMCs backstory, as I felt it would’ve made the book that much more impactful.

I would love to see things from the MMCs POV, as he did start off very intriguing… he kind of mellowed out and became a little too ‘normal’ for my liking when reading a dark romance book.

[SJ · Rating 5 out of 5]

The story grabbed me and I couldn't put it down. Told to us by the FMC's POV. Jill is a determined almost fearless young journalist trying to earn her master's degree. This was a fast-paced rollercoaster ride. The suspense and intrigue had me by a chokehold. This was an intense ride that played with my emotions and head big time. I'm not sure I'm quite recovered yet.

Worth the read if you're into:
Dark romance
BA FMC
Masked man
Serial "unaliver"
Suspenseful
Check TW

This book was completely unhinged and so addictive. I'm still reeling.

[Heather Anjewlravin Shower · Rating 4 out of 5]

Strings Attached had some really strong moments, especially in the second half when the pacing picked up and the story pulled me in. The tension and chemistry really hit their stride later on. That said, the beginning felt a bit slow, and I struggled to connect with the characters at first. I kept wishing we had the male lead’s perspective it could’ve helped the relationship development feel more natural. Overall, it was a good read with great potential, even if a few parts didn’t fully land for me.

[Samantha Millican · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sexy, twisted, and suspenseful. This dark romance between a serial killer and a writer is sure to entrance you. Jack and Jill, how fitting, have an insane chemistry that pulses from the pages. She’s armed with what may be his undoing and lead to an arrest, but there’s something that draws her to him. Their secrets from the past is what makes where they are now so much more vital.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Lei Doyle · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the most unconventional love story I've read this summer and I loved every minute of it. I'm a sucker for serial killers and the MMC Jack is no exception. He is well written, broody, and sharp and is a perfect fit for the MFC Jill who is an emotional roller-coaster, clever, and sweet in her warped way. (Jack & Jill - loved this) This is a great read for anyone who loves serial killers with a defective moral compass.

[Nicole Kowarsch · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC copy and am SOO thankful I got to read it!! This is absolutely one of my favorite reads of 2025! I absolutely love how dark but also adorable Jack is! Jill was also such an amazing mixture of a BAD ASS and sweetheart! There were so many twists and turns I loved it, finding out how the past tied in had me mind blown 🤯 I will be recommending this book to EVERYONE who likes dark romance 😍😍

[Kelz Marie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I did enjoy this book, the beginning was missing a little bit of a spark but the second half definitely brought it back.

The fmc was looking for her childhood hero and found it in a masked serial killer, who becomes obsessed with her, she intrigued him when she wants to interview him for her masters paper, he says yes with favours in return. The back story for our fmc is so good but would of loved more on it.

Overall I really enjoyed the book.

[Stormy Shadows · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC Review
Pub Date: August 1st, 2025
Format: Digital
Genre: Dark Romance
4 stars
I did enjoy this and read this in one sitting. The MC, Jill is strangely obsessed with a series killed “Jack” and she interviews him several times and romance blooms between them and he tortures her with pleasure and pain but she enjoys it. I wanted more to this cause I thought it was more just insta lust but I was a fun fast read. Pretty spicy and entertaining:

[Sam Pitzen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Dark serial killer thriller? FMC wants to be an investigative journalist and tries tracking down a serial killer she’s obsessed with to write a paper on… but she tracks him down and gets a little too close… in… both ways?

definitely gets you hooked and engaged from the beginnings and just gets better.

[Clarissa · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is my first book by M.A. Fréchette and I was pleasantly surprised!

Jill was a great character, very bad ass, which is always awesome.

I do wish we had more of Jack's POV. Maybe there will be a novella... for more Jack??? I would totally love to read that!

I read this in one sitting and I know you will too! Twists, turns and spice, what's not to love 😏

[Lisa Tutty · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book. Loved the plot, the “I will kill anyone that ever touched you” 😅 there was just enough spice not overdone. The way Jill found Jack and then everything that happened after! Was a hands down great read. I didn’t want to put this down at all. If you love stalker, you’re mine, dark romance this is for you. definitely a 4.5 ⭐️ read. Throughly enjoyed it and will be looking into more from this author!

[Kate Pazanin · Rating 2 out of 5]

Unfortunately this book just want for me. I ended up dnfing it 30% in. The author style of writing is great, just wasn't for me.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Jamie Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book so much!

[Kathleen White · Rating 5 out of 5]

loved it creepy keeps y in ur toes while reading

[Lizzie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I could not stop reading. My attention was captured immediately and I wanted to know what happened next. The characters were easy to read about and connect with on some level.

[Cassandra Watson · Rating 4 out of 5]

This wasn’t my typical read but a good option for anyone wanting a thriller.

Interesting story with unique character backgrounds.

[Abril · Rating 3 out of 5]

Dark and Spicy

⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️

The story of Jack & Jill was WILD! There were a few twtists/turns. I do think some holes could have been filled in character development, especially the MMC backstory. The story could have used his perspective. Make sure you check trigger warnings before reading.

I received a free copy of this book and I am voluntarily leaving a review! Thank you for the opportunity!

[Meagen Jongewaard · Rating 4 out of 5]

Overall an enjoyable read! To start, please check the TW before diving in.

Albeit a slower start, once the story began to unfold it was nonstop. Love a good touch her and 🗡️, morally gray MMC; would have liked more on his backstory and what lead him to his current "career" choices but ultimately, got what was needed. Both characters are a bit unhinged, dealing with lots of past trauma and baggage, but on par for this dark themed story!

[Maresha Braswell · Rating 4 out of 5]

Whew… this book had me all over the place emotionally—in the best way.

Strings Attached is not your typical romance. It’s dark, intense, and emotionally messy, but that’s exactly what pulled me in. The connection between the characters is chaotic and toxic at times, but I couldn’t stop reading. I needed to know what was going to happen next.

There were moments where I was like, “Girl, run!” and others where I totally understood why she stayed. The push and pull, the obsession, the control—it was all written in a way that felt so real and raw. I found myself questioning my own morals a little bit while reading (in a good way).

If you like dark romance with complicated characters, a lot of emotional tension, and storylines that don’t shy away from pain and vulnerability, this one’s definitely worth the read. Just be prepared—it’s not soft or sweet, but it will stick with you.

[Eljesa Ahm · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved the book. i read it in one sitting. Its so good. Cery spicy but with the perfect amound of heart to it. Which is bezar because he is a serialkiller…. I dont know why Jack grew on me. I have so many questions and none are answered. Is it because there is a second book??? i really hope so.

[The Plot Thickens Book Club · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reviewed by Emma on behalf of The Plot Thickens Book Club
Title: Strings Attached
Author: M. A. Frechette
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

This book showed me why it is good to break out of your comfort zone sometimes and read something you wouldn’t normally go for! Something about the synopsis drew me in and I was NOT disappointed!
Jack is a serial killer. Jill is a student who wants to interview him for a report she is writing. It’s not exactly a great starting point for romance and yet it somehow turned into such a great love story! Saying they have a lot of obstacles to overcome is a major understatement and there are so many great twists along the way but the chemistry is great throughout and the spice was by far the best I’ve read!
This was the first book I’ve read in a while that I struggled to put down and I will definitely be reading the other books by this author-highly recommend!

[Alisa Begoyants · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is my first read by this author, and I liked the story. It was dark, intense, and interesting to see how it would end. I was waiting to find out how Jill’s parents got killed, but the author saved it for the last chapter. What I didn’t like is that the author didn’t include Jack’s perspective, only Jill’s throughout the book. I would like to know how Jack found out about Jill’s parents, and why Jack became a serial killer. The author mentioned in one sentence only that his first kill was his ex-girlfriend's professor but you have to have a reason to continue killing.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Dark Reader · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a short dark romance story featuring the FMC, Jill, who is a reporter and student trying to finish a story on a serial killer, the MMC Jack. While trying to get more information for her story, Jill finds herself caught up in Jack's web - but is that a bad thing?

I enjoyed this very much - it's pretty short, so there isn't a ton of world building here, but the attraction and chemistry between the MCs is great. There is a bit of suspending disbelief with the initial attraction, but there are secrets to uncover that may explain why Jill is so drawn to Jack.

Overall a fun read - I would recommend!

Thanks to the ARC team for an advance copy!