What do you think?
Rate this book
Deadly Sin #2
Love Kills
Deranged birds of a feather flock together… leaving trails of blood in their wake.
Holland has fantasies most can’t accept. When potential mates discover Holland’s bloodlust, it’s too late for them to refuse. Determined to get what he wants, Holland continues to seek a man to fulfill his deepest desire and he won’t stop at anything
Archer is inspired and aroused by the tales he’s heard from his boyfriend. Still, he’s greedy for something that pushes him over the edge. Although this might drive him and his partner apart, Archer’s dark want won’t disappear.
Clint’s love for his job has slipped for years, and he’s pondered change. These days he’s cared more about how to please his man, than the rigorous position of solving murder cases. Clint thinks his attitude will eventually get better, thus prompting him to stay aboard. Still, the constant worry of Archer finding someone new niggles at him.
Putting sketchy characters behind bars had always been Clint’s forte, but when new feelings arise, Clint’s conscience is tested. Furthermore, what will happen if Clint is forced to choose between the love of his life, his career, and his morality?
Warning: This dark romance contains themes some readers might find objectionable.
Possible Triggers: Murder, death, edgeplay, angst, gore, blood
Holland has fantasies most can’t accept. When potential mates discover Holland’s bloodlust, it’s too late for them to refuse. Determined to get what he wants, Holland continues to seek a man to fulfill his deepest desire and he won’t stop at anything
Archer is inspired and aroused by the tales he’s heard from his boyfriend. Still, he’s greedy for something that pushes him over the edge. Although this might drive him and his partner apart, Archer’s dark want won’t disappear.
Clint’s love for his job has slipped for years, and he’s pondered change. These days he’s cared more about how to please his man, than the rigorous position of solving murder cases. Clint thinks his attitude will eventually get better, thus prompting him to stay aboard. Still, the constant worry of Archer finding someone new niggles at him.
Putting sketchy characters behind bars had always been Clint’s forte, but when new feelings arise, Clint’s conscience is tested. Furthermore, what will happen if Clint is forced to choose between the love of his life, his career, and his morality?
Warning: This dark romance contains themes some readers might find objectionable.
Possible Triggers: Murder, death, edgeplay, angst, gore, blood
244 pages, ebook
First published May 10, 2019
30 people are currently reading
287 people want to read
About the author
Michael Mandrake
57 books181 followersMichael Mandrake pens complex characters already comfortable with their sexuality. Through these, he builds worlds not centered on romance but rather the mainstream and/or obscure plots we might encounter in everyday life and beyond. To find out more please visit https://michaelmandrake.wordpress.com/
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
May 10, 2019
3.5 stars Two storylines coming together with a bang, Archer with Clint and Holland.
One lusting over bloodplay, one artist lusting over murder scenes, one trying to do right with crime.
Archer wants to find a third in his relationship. After finding a stunning and intriguing guy he thinks he found him. Little did he know, this man wants to use his knife.
When they come together, some extreme kink fantasy comes true.
A bloody and creepy story. Awful confessions, terrifying angst and through this, all was lust, kink and even a kind of romance woven.
Their sinister characters are splendid exposed. Their interactions are more than strange and bizarre. Their sexual moments extreme. It’s not a bad thing not to like them.
The way of writing was good, the plot was extraordinary. It was a captivating read and it made me feel even a bit uncomfortable ha!
One lusting over bloodplay, one artist lusting over murder scenes, one trying to do right with crime.
Archer wants to find a third in his relationship. After finding a stunning and intriguing guy he thinks he found him. Little did he know, this man wants to use his knife.
When they come together, some extreme kink fantasy comes true.
A bloody and creepy story. Awful confessions, terrifying angst and through this, all was lust, kink and even a kind of romance woven.
Their sinister characters are splendid exposed. Their interactions are more than strange and bizarre. Their sexual moments extreme. It’s not a bad thing not to like them.
The way of writing was good, the plot was extraordinary. It was a captivating read and it made me feel even a bit uncomfortable ha!
June 10, 2019
at this point i'm wondering if there's some amazon employee looking through my ebook history like wHaT tHe FuCK
anyway this is Dark with a capital D and Kinky with a capital K and i really enjoyed it!! even though it's fucked up.
anyway this is Dark with a capital D and Kinky with a capital K and i really enjoyed it!! even though it's fucked up.
June 28, 2019
¸.•*´¨)
(¸.•´ ★I am keeping my 3.5 rating all the same.
I didn't want to post until I got my thoughts together. I am not one for dark reads, despite my need for horror/thriller and the paranormal. Just knowing that one of the MCs is a serial killer, another fosters his needs off of it and a cop who gets caught up in the mess of it all, I took a chance on requesting this book, and boy, did I get a eyeful. This/these books are not for everyone and I cannot give a definite that I will revisit the Criminal Delights world again; it took my breath.
"You're my lover, he's my supplier." ~Archer
The blood splatter captured my attention, then it was all on. I needed to know what all the woo-rah was about. Having got some premise of the series, I expected some Law and Order meets NCIS meets Criminal Minds deep, dark story. This is what I got.
A selfish, manipulative, all-about-me-and-my-needs Archie, who got off on death. Archer didn't know how he'd find out the answers, but something told him to play along just to keep himself alive.
Holland, a killer who fell for Archie's charm and found himself caught between a rock and a hard place. "I want to create lifelike art with you, babe. Knowing what we could accomplish excites me. I want you to feel the same." A man with a instinct: "Short of seeking out the cop and getting rid of him, Holland had to do what he could to make Archer's man a distant memory."
And Clint, a police officer who gave up everything for Archie who could care less for him. He knew with that opening scene how the man he'd spent the past three years felt about him, and yet he could not quit him. Followed by Archie's insistence of bringing a third into their already shaking relationship...
I could not believe what I was reading or the depth of the author's descriptions. Gore, blood and fascination played a part of this deep, dark story and I feel I now need a vat of bleach to scrub my brain of the horror. Interesting and disturbing all at the same time. It's like seeing a train accident about to happen, knowing you should look away, but can't.
I voluntarily and honestly reviewed this book without bias or persuasion from the author.
(¸.•´ ★I am keeping my 3.5 rating all the same.
I didn't want to post until I got my thoughts together. I am not one for dark reads, despite my need for horror/thriller and the paranormal. Just knowing that one of the MCs is a serial killer, another fosters his needs off of it and a cop who gets caught up in the mess of it all, I took a chance on requesting this book, and boy, did I get a eyeful. This/these books are not for everyone and I cannot give a definite that I will revisit the Criminal Delights world again; it took my breath.
"You're my lover, he's my supplier." ~Archer
The blood splatter captured my attention, then it was all on. I needed to know what all the woo-rah was about. Having got some premise of the series, I expected some Law and Order meets NCIS meets Criminal Minds deep, dark story. This is what I got.
A selfish, manipulative, all-about-me-and-my-needs Archie, who got off on death. Archer didn't know how he'd find out the answers, but something told him to play along just to keep himself alive.
Holland, a killer who fell for Archie's charm and found himself caught between a rock and a hard place. "I want to create lifelike art with you, babe. Knowing what we could accomplish excites me. I want you to feel the same." A man with a instinct: "Short of seeking out the cop and getting rid of him, Holland had to do what he could to make Archer's man a distant memory."
And Clint, a police officer who gave up everything for Archie who could care less for him. He knew with that opening scene how the man he'd spent the past three years felt about him, and yet he could not quit him. Followed by Archie's insistence of bringing a third into their already shaking relationship...
I could not believe what I was reading or the depth of the author's descriptions. Gore, blood and fascination played a part of this deep, dark story and I feel I now need a vat of bleach to scrub my brain of the horror. Interesting and disturbing all at the same time. It's like seeing a train accident about to happen, knowing you should look away, but can't.
I voluntarily and honestly reviewed this book without bias or persuasion from the author.
April 27, 2025
3.7 stars. It's a good series so far, not quite living the characters or romance but an entertaining read in a darker way.
May 20, 2019
Deranged Birds... the first two words in the blurb say it all. Love Kills is one of those stories that will mess with your head. Two of the characters especially are messed up- one more than the other.
We have three main characters in this story and each gets to tell us their point of view. It kinda started with two different stories that eventually came together.
This book has many triggers so make sure you heed them . Personally I loved it. The story and the characters messed with my head.
Although the epilogue tied the story up I would love a book two. Hey I’m greedy lol
This is part of the Criminal Delights series. Each book can be read as a standalone but in all honestly I’ve read a few of them and they are so so good.
We have three main characters in this story and each gets to tell us their point of view. It kinda started with two different stories that eventually came together.
This book has many triggers so make sure you heed them . Personally I loved it. The story and the characters messed with my head.
Although the epilogue tied the story up I would love a book two. Hey I’m greedy lol
This is part of the Criminal Delights series. Each book can be read as a standalone but in all honestly I’ve read a few of them and they are so so good.
May 9, 2019
I have a good time reading the book. It have some ups and downs, but then things that I liked were enough to keep my attention the whole time. It is a bit different that I was expecting, and at some point darker and more disturbing that I would hope for, but still got me hook.
What I liked the most was the love-hate emotion that a character made me feel. Archer was interesting. He was such an unlikable character, but at the same time he was so fascinating. It was like something you know you shouldn’t like but you like it anyway or at least can’t get your eyes off it. He was arrogant, extremely selfish and somehow still manage to be charming. I didn’t liked him though, he was way too selfish to make me actually love him or believe he love someone other than himself. It was a big problem in the romantic aspect, because it didn’t seem anything but lust or what he could get from his lovers, and I guess that was an important part of his personality, but exactly what make him be unlikable, even to me, who generally like such characters.
The other characters were fine, but they lack certain charm I seek in a main character. I don’t think they have a good chemistry and it all seem more like an obsession from Clint and Holland’s side. I did liked those two, but they weren’t as captivating and emotion inducing as Archer.
The plot was fine, maybe promising more than it deliver, but entertaining enough. It was a bit slow paced to my taste, but I end up having a good time reading it. It have some graphic description of murders, which can be a bit disturbing, but since it was the main subject, I guess whoever choose to read the book might be aware of that.
What I liked the most was the love-hate emotion that a character made me feel. Archer was interesting. He was such an unlikable character, but at the same time he was so fascinating. It was like something you know you shouldn’t like but you like it anyway or at least can’t get your eyes off it. He was arrogant, extremely selfish and somehow still manage to be charming. I didn’t liked him though, he was way too selfish to make me actually love him or believe he love someone other than himself. It was a big problem in the romantic aspect, because it didn’t seem anything but lust or what he could get from his lovers, and I guess that was an important part of his personality, but exactly what make him be unlikable, even to me, who generally like such characters.
The other characters were fine, but they lack certain charm I seek in a main character. I don’t think they have a good chemistry and it all seem more like an obsession from Clint and Holland’s side. I did liked those two, but they weren’t as captivating and emotion inducing as Archer.
The plot was fine, maybe promising more than it deliver, but entertaining enough. It was a bit slow paced to my taste, but I end up having a good time reading it. It have some graphic description of murders, which can be a bit disturbing, but since it was the main subject, I guess whoever choose to read the book might be aware of that.
May 14, 2019
Love is blind
3.75 stars/ 4 stars
Morbid, gory and kinky. I'm down with kink like the next girl *winks* BUT blood play or edge play isn't one that is for me. The blurb doesn't really go into the trigger warnings. BEWARE.
The story of three very different men is unique and interesting but Archer is a manipulative little s@+t. I really felt bad for Clint and even Holland even though Holland himself is a murderer. Archer has them wrapped around his little finger. I would love a follow-up novella about these three crazy guys.
3.75 stars/ 4 stars
Morbid, gory and kinky. I'm down with kink like the next girl *winks* BUT blood play or edge play isn't one that is for me. The blurb doesn't really go into the trigger warnings. BEWARE.
The story of three very different men is unique and interesting but Archer is a manipulative little s@+t. I really felt bad for Clint and even Holland even though Holland himself is a murderer. Archer has them wrapped around his little finger. I would love a follow-up novella about these three crazy guys.
May 13, 2019
First and foremost! If any of you have triggers, please, for the love of all that's holy, READ THE WARNINGS AND POSSIBLE TRIGGERS! This is one hell of a damn good book, but it is also one f’ed up book. My only complaint is there is some grammatical issues that need to be fixed, but other than that, what. A. Book.
Clint is a cop, who switched to homicide. But lately he's having a hard time. His issues with his boyfriend, Archer, are not helping. Clint is ready to settle down with Archer, but Archer doesn't want to. He's not ready. Plus, he's a complete dick to Clint most of the time and no one understands why he's with Archer. Or vice versa. With Archer’s line of work, Clint doesn't relate to Archer's more dark side either. Especially being a cop and seeing more all day long. But Archer loves the stories Clint tells him from his work, and Clint is suspecting that's all Archer wants him for. Even questions Archer. So Archer decides he needs to blow off steam. And meets a sexy man who fulfills all of Archer's kinks. Until Archer finds out the real truth. But fear turns in to lust and into a dangerous game. One Clint doesn't know. Clint suspects, especially after seeing Holland's old rap sheet, but he's getting into Holland and the dynamic the three play. Maybe the old adage of what you don't know, won't hurt you is true.
What a twist! I don't want to give it away, but it's truly a twisted set up. It's not just an 'open’ relationship. It's what all parties of the relationship are. With Clint being a cop, he has suspicions about some things, bit all he wants is to keep Archer happy. And since Archer found Holland to first fulfill his darker side kinks, he's realized how badly he's treated Clint and how much he really loves him. With the joining of Clint and Holland together with Archer, Archer is in hog heaven. And Clint is getting into things he never was before, because of how Archer looks with Holland during the play. It's all just….well, twisted lol. But so interesting.
I'm weird, but it kind of makes me wonder if there's relationships really like this. Knowing this world, probably lol. Makes for some great reading, though. I'm so glad these authors did this series. It's been very interesting to see where each author’s mind goes. It's been amazing.
http://lovebytesreviews.com/
Clint is a cop, who switched to homicide. But lately he's having a hard time. His issues with his boyfriend, Archer, are not helping. Clint is ready to settle down with Archer, but Archer doesn't want to. He's not ready. Plus, he's a complete dick to Clint most of the time and no one understands why he's with Archer. Or vice versa. With Archer’s line of work, Clint doesn't relate to Archer's more dark side either. Especially being a cop and seeing more all day long. But Archer loves the stories Clint tells him from his work, and Clint is suspecting that's all Archer wants him for. Even questions Archer. So Archer decides he needs to blow off steam. And meets a sexy man who fulfills all of Archer's kinks. Until Archer finds out the real truth. But fear turns in to lust and into a dangerous game. One Clint doesn't know. Clint suspects, especially after seeing Holland's old rap sheet, but he's getting into Holland and the dynamic the three play. Maybe the old adage of what you don't know, won't hurt you is true.
What a twist! I don't want to give it away, but it's truly a twisted set up. It's not just an 'open’ relationship. It's what all parties of the relationship are. With Clint being a cop, he has suspicions about some things, bit all he wants is to keep Archer happy. And since Archer found Holland to first fulfill his darker side kinks, he's realized how badly he's treated Clint and how much he really loves him. With the joining of Clint and Holland together with Archer, Archer is in hog heaven. And Clint is getting into things he never was before, because of how Archer looks with Holland during the play. It's all just….well, twisted lol. But so interesting.
I'm weird, but it kind of makes me wonder if there's relationships really like this. Knowing this world, probably lol. Makes for some great reading, though. I'm so glad these authors did this series. It's been very interesting to see where each author’s mind goes. It's been amazing.
http://lovebytesreviews.com/
May 10, 2019
A Joyfully Jay review.
3.75 stars
This is not a book for the faint of heart or the squeamish. This is book eight in the Criminal Delights series, a set of standalone stories by different authors that involve dark and disturbing content, where killers, murderers, and heroes (if there are any) live in the shades of grey between black and white. There is no justice for anyone in this book, no morally sanitized ending. This is a story about two deranged and depraved men pulling their lover down with them. One of the three POV characters is a serial rapist and murderer who enjoys beating and killing men, and that scene is lovingly written out. The mentions of traumatic death are offhand and casual and the main characters in this book enjoy gore and blood play and get off on the voyeuristic stories of people being attacked and killed.
Holland is a killer. He enjoys beating men, raping them, and then killing them. Though he’s only killed two, so far, he’s beaten and assaulted far more. His therapist is afraid of him, which pleases Holland. Not that he’d hurt her (though he fantasizes about it), because he’d never hurt a woman. Or a child. But men … men are a different matter. He’s been good for a while, now, but Holland is getting the itch again and needs to find the perfect victim for his next night out.
Read Elizabeth’s review in its entirety here.
3.75 stars
This is not a book for the faint of heart or the squeamish. This is book eight in the Criminal Delights series, a set of standalone stories by different authors that involve dark and disturbing content, where killers, murderers, and heroes (if there are any) live in the shades of grey between black and white. There is no justice for anyone in this book, no morally sanitized ending. This is a story about two deranged and depraved men pulling their lover down with them. One of the three POV characters is a serial rapist and murderer who enjoys beating and killing men, and that scene is lovingly written out. The mentions of traumatic death are offhand and casual and the main characters in this book enjoy gore and blood play and get off on the voyeuristic stories of people being attacked and killed.
Holland is a killer. He enjoys beating men, raping them, and then killing them. Though he’s only killed two, so far, he’s beaten and assaulted far more. His therapist is afraid of him, which pleases Holland. Not that he’d hurt her (though he fantasizes about it), because he’d never hurt a woman. Or a child. But men … men are a different matter. He’s been good for a while, now, but Holland is getting the itch again and needs to find the perfect victim for his next night out.
Read Elizabeth’s review in its entirety here.
June 26, 2019
This was interesting and fast paced..kept me on the edge of my seat..very good and creepy! Very good story
January 22, 2020
I held off of reading this book for as long as possible savouring the moment I became reacquainted with Archer. As with discovering him in A Portrait Of A Black Heart, I was not disappointed.I absolutely love this book and I can't recommend it highly enough.
Archer, with his slightly crooked moral compass,has become one of my favourite characters and can stand beside another one of my favourites,Dexter.
I don't like to give spoilers for books, I like to give readers the chance to discover the delights within,and,there are a lot of delights within this book.
If you are already contemplating whether or not to read this book, you will be aware that it is part of a series of books about criminals and their deeds. That being said,there is subject matter in this book that may be a trigger. If you have decided that this is for you after all, then dive in and discover if Archer's choice to have a third in his relationship with his boyfriend, is the right choice.
Archer, with his slightly crooked moral compass,has become one of my favourite characters and can stand beside another one of my favourites,Dexter.
I don't like to give spoilers for books, I like to give readers the chance to discover the delights within,and,there are a lot of delights within this book.
If you are already contemplating whether or not to read this book, you will be aware that it is part of a series of books about criminals and their deeds. That being said,there is subject matter in this book that may be a trigger. If you have decided that this is for you after all, then dive in and discover if Archer's choice to have a third in his relationship with his boyfriend, is the right choice.
May 8, 2019
Love Kills: Criminal Delights - Serial Killers by Michael Mandrake & Natasha Snow
3 stars
M/M Dark Romance
Triggers: Murder, Torture, Voyerism, Blood play
I was given this book for an honest review by Wicked Reads.
Clint and Archer have been together for a few years. Despite the age difference, Clint believes he's ready to settle down with Archer. However, Archer has other things on his mind.
Then you bring in Holland. Archer and Holland both have an affinity for blood and guts. They find a kindred spirit in each other and even though Holland thought he would use Archer for a different thing, they quickly become bonded.
This was a dark book in that you got to see the darker side of Archer and Holland together. Then, when you brought in Clint, the voyeurism aspect was filled with chemistry. However, the characters all felt one dimensional. The instant nicknames that Holland and Archer took to was also somewhat cheesy.
Overall, while this was much darker than the first, again, I was underwhelmed with the story. This needed more development of the story and characters. Their connection was tenuous at best.
3 stars
M/M Dark Romance
Triggers: Murder, Torture, Voyerism, Blood play
I was given this book for an honest review by Wicked Reads.
Clint and Archer have been together for a few years. Despite the age difference, Clint believes he's ready to settle down with Archer. However, Archer has other things on his mind.
Then you bring in Holland. Archer and Holland both have an affinity for blood and guts. They find a kindred spirit in each other and even though Holland thought he would use Archer for a different thing, they quickly become bonded.
This was a dark book in that you got to see the darker side of Archer and Holland together. Then, when you brought in Clint, the voyeurism aspect was filled with chemistry. However, the characters all felt one dimensional. The instant nicknames that Holland and Archer took to was also somewhat cheesy.
Overall, while this was much darker than the first, again, I was underwhelmed with the story. This needed more development of the story and characters. Their connection was tenuous at best.
May 19, 2019
This is such a nice twisted and dark story. This is definitely not a book for everyone. But if you want a dark, twisted and on the edge of your seat type of book then this definitely for you. I couldn't put this down.
May 10, 2019
If you are looking for a dark and thriller read then don't miss reading this one. You will be drawn in from page one with a story of 3 different characters. We get to look through their eyes of what and how they want things to be. The steam coming off these pages will be making you fan your self. Highly recommend this book
May 12, 2019
The characters, as well as the storyline, were quite interesting. I can't say I was fascinated by it but I certainly enjoyed it.
January 10, 2020
Wow!
Well I wanted to know more! This book is full of three men you can't help but like and the story line is hard to leave.
Archer needs to feed his darker side. Clint is his light so he goes out looking and finds Holland.
Clint can't see a way for this to work but he's prepared to try anything for Archer.
Holland well he just brings a whole new dimension to the story.
The characters are well developed and well rounded that it's hard to put it down. I will definitely be looking for this author again.
Well I wanted to know more! This book is full of three men you can't help but like and the story line is hard to leave.
Archer needs to feed his darker side. Clint is his light so he goes out looking and finds Holland.
Clint can't see a way for this to work but he's prepared to try anything for Archer.
Holland well he just brings a whole new dimension to the story.
The characters are well developed and well rounded that it's hard to put it down. I will definitely be looking for this author again.
October 6, 2020
Update: I did a re-read of the book with the audiobook. John Solo's narrationw as wonderful and worked really well with this story.
***
I adore the Criminal Delights series and how it delves into the dark, dirty, twisted side of love and lust. Love Kills is a perfect addition to the series and it is just as delightfully twisted as the book summary promises. Archer is a self-centered, narcissist who wants to eat his cake and have it too. He doesn’t care who he hurts as long as he gets his way. And he’s so, so, so good at getting his way. Clint is a mess. He’s burnt out as a detective and just wants to settle down and love Archer. He allows himself to be manipulated and played by Archer because he’s unwilling to peel back the glossy façade and take a real look at his relationship with Archer. Instead Clint spends his time feeling hurt, and then eating up Archer’s lies. Worse, Clint somehow justifies all the crazy turn of events to himself and remains willfully blind to what is truly going on. Holland…well, Holland is a serial killer with an obsession. Holland is a great character and I enjoyed his interactions with Archer and Clint.
Overall Rating: 3.5 Stars. The writing was good (although there were some mistakes), the sex was steamy and delicious, and the characters were intriguing. I just wished Holland spent more time interacting with Clint and Archer together. At times the book felt more like a dip in Archer’s mind than a twisted romance, and while I enjoyed getting to know Archer, I wanted more action. I hope there’s a sequel that will feature all three of the characters. I would read that in heartbeat, especially if Archer and Holland can drag Clint even further down into their darkness.
***
I adore the Criminal Delights series and how it delves into the dark, dirty, twisted side of love and lust. Love Kills is a perfect addition to the series and it is just as delightfully twisted as the book summary promises. Archer is a self-centered, narcissist who wants to eat his cake and have it too. He doesn’t care who he hurts as long as he gets his way. And he’s so, so, so good at getting his way. Clint is a mess. He’s burnt out as a detective and just wants to settle down and love Archer. He allows himself to be manipulated and played by Archer because he’s unwilling to peel back the glossy façade and take a real look at his relationship with Archer. Instead Clint spends his time feeling hurt, and then eating up Archer’s lies. Worse, Clint somehow justifies all the crazy turn of events to himself and remains willfully blind to what is truly going on. Holland…well, Holland is a serial killer with an obsession. Holland is a great character and I enjoyed his interactions with Archer and Clint.
Overall Rating: 3.5 Stars. The writing was good (although there were some mistakes), the sex was steamy and delicious, and the characters were intriguing. I just wished Holland spent more time interacting with Clint and Archer together. At times the book felt more like a dip in Archer’s mind than a twisted romance, and while I enjoyed getting to know Archer, I wanted more action. I hope there’s a sequel that will feature all three of the characters. I would read that in heartbeat, especially if Archer and Holland can drag Clint even further down into their darkness.
June 1, 2019
3.5 Stars
This story is a bit dark, twisted and plays with your head. It isn’t for the faint of heart and has a few bloody and gory parts. It wasn’t what I was expecting but I did enjoy it for the most part.
All three men are very different, and it made for an intriguing story, but there were a handful of times I just had a hard time keeping up. Not that it wasn’t an interesting story, I just felt Archer and Clint’s characters lacked in ways. Holland was definitely my favorite character, but I felt the author did a great job with explaining who and what he was.
This story is a bit dark, twisted and plays with your head. It isn’t for the faint of heart and has a few bloody and gory parts. It wasn’t what I was expecting but I did enjoy it for the most part.
All three men are very different, and it made for an intriguing story, but there were a handful of times I just had a hard time keeping up. Not that it wasn’t an interesting story, I just felt Archer and Clint’s characters lacked in ways. Holland was definitely my favorite character, but I felt the author did a great job with explaining who and what he was.
Want to read
June 21, 2019
Part of the Criminal Delights series. While part of a series each can de be read as a standalone:
October 9, 2020
Terrific Story & Narration🎧 Twisted & Intense!
Love Kills Deadly Sin, Book 2
By: Michael Mandrake
Narrated by: John Solo
This is one dark and twisted story and I loved every word of it. This is my first book written by Michael Mandrake and it certainly will not be my last, I enjoyed his writing style, he created a story that took me out of my comfort zone but did it in such a way that it did not bother me one bit, the story was mesmerizing and I did not even think once about being out of my comfort zone. OK, so some of the scenes may not be my thing but to each is own, but I won’t say it gives me chills up my spine to think of such scenes. The characters in this book are complex, well developed and yes very twisted. Archer is an artist, he is fascinated with blood play and it reflects in his artwork, recreating scenes of bloodied victims. His boyfriend Clint, is a police detective and he loves hearing his gory tales of crime scenes, it motivates his artistic side. There is a little relationship drama going on between them, Archer wants to bring in a third and he finds that perfect someone, Holland, unfortunately he is not as perfect as he seems which Archer learns after after they share their mutual love for blood play, except Holland’s bloodlust takes on a whole new meaning. I loved how the author brings these three together, not just for the menage, but with Archer thinking he needed Clint for his light and Holland for his darkness, a triangle of the good, the bad and the oh so pretty. The story is cleverly plotted and there is never a dull moment, there are some intense scenes not for the light hearted but they are all well done and presented. Michale Mandrake, thank you for this terrific, mind-blowing, thrill of a novel, thrill of a ride. 🎧📚🎧
And for the narration, John Solo was the perfect narrator to bring these characters to life. He did a great job portraying each of the leads, giving them their own distinct voice and personality, making it easy to follow along and who is who. He sets the perfect tone for the story, captures the character’s emotions, their drama as well as their passion which can be heard in his performance. He is an entertaining storyteller, a natural talent and it is always a pleasure to listen to his work. thank you for another awesome listen 🎧
Love Kills Deadly Sin, Book 2
By: Michael Mandrake
Narrated by: John Solo
This is one dark and twisted story and I loved every word of it. This is my first book written by Michael Mandrake and it certainly will not be my last, I enjoyed his writing style, he created a story that took me out of my comfort zone but did it in such a way that it did not bother me one bit, the story was mesmerizing and I did not even think once about being out of my comfort zone. OK, so some of the scenes may not be my thing but to each is own, but I won’t say it gives me chills up my spine to think of such scenes. The characters in this book are complex, well developed and yes very twisted. Archer is an artist, he is fascinated with blood play and it reflects in his artwork, recreating scenes of bloodied victims. His boyfriend Clint, is a police detective and he loves hearing his gory tales of crime scenes, it motivates his artistic side. There is a little relationship drama going on between them, Archer wants to bring in a third and he finds that perfect someone, Holland, unfortunately he is not as perfect as he seems which Archer learns after after they share their mutual love for blood play, except Holland’s bloodlust takes on a whole new meaning. I loved how the author brings these three together, not just for the menage, but with Archer thinking he needed Clint for his light and Holland for his darkness, a triangle of the good, the bad and the oh so pretty. The story is cleverly plotted and there is never a dull moment, there are some intense scenes not for the light hearted but they are all well done and presented. Michale Mandrake, thank you for this terrific, mind-blowing, thrill of a novel, thrill of a ride. 🎧📚🎧
And for the narration, John Solo was the perfect narrator to bring these characters to life. He did a great job portraying each of the leads, giving them their own distinct voice and personality, making it easy to follow along and who is who. He sets the perfect tone for the story, captures the character’s emotions, their drama as well as their passion which can be heard in his performance. He is an entertaining storyteller, a natural talent and it is always a pleasure to listen to his work. thank you for another awesome listen 🎧
October 14, 2020
Disturbing and hypnotic (an audio review)
I’m always game to try something new, so when the opportunity to read this book came up, I leapt on it. I wasn’t disappointed, but I was certainly disturbed.
This is book 2 in the series and although I didn’t read book 1, I was fine. Book 1 establishes the relationship between Archer and Clint. This book takes up where that one leaves off. Archer and Clint are in a relationship, but Clint wants more from his younger lover. He wants commitment that Archer isn’t ready to provide. Archer loves playing the field. He cares deeply for Clint, but doesn’t want to tie himself down.
This is an odd relationship. I wasn’t always sure there was love there. Archer’s constant demands for the gory details of Clint’s work (homicide cop) were unceasing. Archer’s lust for blood was dominant. Oh, he’s into cutting, but that’s as far as it goes. A little blood play? Sure. Murder? No, thanks.
Enter Holland. Holland is…well… I don’t want to spoil the book, but let’s just say Holland is into violence and there is plenty on the page. Those blurry lines and pesky morally ambiguous characters and all that. He was compelling to be sure, but also very disturbing. He and Archer hook up and it feels like a match made in heaven (or hell, depending on your perspective). But Clint isn’t finished with Archer and Archer isn’t finished with Clint, so their relationship now includes Holland and they become a ménage.
Life is never boring.
The ending leaves room for more, to be sure, and I’m interested to see where the story goes. To see where the lines are drawn. To see how things work out. I’m intrigued.
On to narration – John Solo did a great job, as he always does. I certainly hope more books from this series come to audio, and hopefully John will be performing them.
I’m always game to try something new, so when the opportunity to read this book came up, I leapt on it. I wasn’t disappointed, but I was certainly disturbed.
This is book 2 in the series and although I didn’t read book 1, I was fine. Book 1 establishes the relationship between Archer and Clint. This book takes up where that one leaves off. Archer and Clint are in a relationship, but Clint wants more from his younger lover. He wants commitment that Archer isn’t ready to provide. Archer loves playing the field. He cares deeply for Clint, but doesn’t want to tie himself down.
This is an odd relationship. I wasn’t always sure there was love there. Archer’s constant demands for the gory details of Clint’s work (homicide cop) were unceasing. Archer’s lust for blood was dominant. Oh, he’s into cutting, but that’s as far as it goes. A little blood play? Sure. Murder? No, thanks.
Enter Holland. Holland is…well… I don’t want to spoil the book, but let’s just say Holland is into violence and there is plenty on the page. Those blurry lines and pesky morally ambiguous characters and all that. He was compelling to be sure, but also very disturbing. He and Archer hook up and it feels like a match made in heaven (or hell, depending on your perspective). But Clint isn’t finished with Archer and Archer isn’t finished with Clint, so their relationship now includes Holland and they become a ménage.
Life is never boring.
The ending leaves room for more, to be sure, and I’m interested to see where the story goes. To see where the lines are drawn. To see how things work out. I’m intrigued.
On to narration – John Solo did a great job, as he always does. I certainly hope more books from this series come to audio, and hopefully John will be performing them.
May 10, 2019
Book reaches its climax and then ends???
I really really really enjoyed this book it pulled you in, it teased you, it built you up............ and then just drops like it just ends.....there’s no actual conclusion yeah they all three end up working out together that you find out in the epilogue but the author is writing a book about a serial killer who gets in the bed with a cop.. But the fact that the person he’s murdered and that cop has seen pictures of the murder...the case lands on his desk but it doesn’t get brought up it just ends at that point??????? I scoured through Amazon because I was like there’s no way that this book could end like this there’s got to be a book two nope it’s just how it is.....which is super disappointing I was so excited for this book and it just really let me down like how are you going to tease these things at the last chapter and then just end it. Like I don’t know if there was like a word limit on these books I don’t think so but there were so many parts that were not needed that you could’ve expanded on the End...it’s just unreal how this book ends and like I’m really frustrated because of the end of this book. I hope and pray that there’s a book two because it was soooooooo good but that ending Jesus.....
I really really really enjoyed this book it pulled you in, it teased you, it built you up............ and then just drops like it just ends.....there’s no actual conclusion yeah they all three end up working out together that you find out in the epilogue but the author is writing a book about a serial killer who gets in the bed with a cop.. But the fact that the person he’s murdered and that cop has seen pictures of the murder...the case lands on his desk but it doesn’t get brought up it just ends at that point??????? I scoured through Amazon because I was like there’s no way that this book could end like this there’s got to be a book two nope it’s just how it is.....which is super disappointing I was so excited for this book and it just really let me down like how are you going to tease these things at the last chapter and then just end it. Like I don’t know if there was like a word limit on these books I don’t think so but there were so many parts that were not needed that you could’ve expanded on the End...it’s just unreal how this book ends and like I’m really frustrated because of the end of this book. I hope and pray that there’s a book two because it was soooooooo good but that ending Jesus.....
May 10, 2019
*I voluntarily read this book. All opinions stated are solely my own and no one else's*
3 stars
I went into this book expecting one thing but got something completely different. The blurb caught my interest but I wasn’t fully prepared for how gory, violent or twisted it actually was. I do like a good dark romance but this one became a little too much for me.
Holland was seriously twisted and the author explored his state of mind, triggers and background really well. His POV was intriguing but I was genuinely baffled with how Archer wasn’t sleeping with one eye open at all times. Holland made my blood run cold and that’s putting things mildly. Holland licking his victims blood made me cringe.
Archer got off on blood and gore and he captured it with his photography. When you add Holland to the mix you get something even more disturbing, on a whole new level. The darkness that drives these two men was explored well.
Clint was probably more sane than his counterparts. I sympathised with him in the beginning when Archer delivered his answer.
3 stars
I went into this book expecting one thing but got something completely different. The blurb caught my interest but I wasn’t fully prepared for how gory, violent or twisted it actually was. I do like a good dark romance but this one became a little too much for me.
Holland was seriously twisted and the author explored his state of mind, triggers and background really well. His POV was intriguing but I was genuinely baffled with how Archer wasn’t sleeping with one eye open at all times. Holland made my blood run cold and that’s putting things mildly. Holland licking his victims blood made me cringe.
Archer got off on blood and gore and he captured it with his photography. When you add Holland to the mix you get something even more disturbing, on a whole new level. The darkness that drives these two men was explored well.
Clint was probably more sane than his counterparts. I sympathised with him in the beginning when Archer delivered his answer.
October 13, 2020
book and audio review
Love Kills is book 2 in the Deadly Sin series and should be enjoyed after book 1. This book is intense and not for everyone, honestly it was almost too much for me. Reading the words is one thing but hearing John Solo's narration.....made it bit too real. Archer is an artist with a bit of a blood fetish. His detective boyfriend, Clint, is older and wants to retire. Archer doesn't want him to retire, in fact he wants to add a third to their relationship. The third Archer finds, Holland, is a bit terrifying with some dark secrets. This book is hot and twisted and I'm intrigued to see what happens next.
Narrator John Solo does an absolutely amazing job. He really draws you into the story with his voice.
Love Kills is book 2 in the Deadly Sin series and should be enjoyed after book 1. This book is intense and not for everyone, honestly it was almost too much for me. Reading the words is one thing but hearing John Solo's narration.....made it bit too real. Archer is an artist with a bit of a blood fetish. His detective boyfriend, Clint, is older and wants to retire. Archer doesn't want him to retire, in fact he wants to add a third to their relationship. The third Archer finds, Holland, is a bit terrifying with some dark secrets. This book is hot and twisted and I'm intrigued to see what happens next.
Narrator John Solo does an absolutely amazing job. He really draws you into the story with his voice.
December 23, 2020
Ok. I liked this dark, gritty tale, but for God's sake, get a better editor! "Passed" is the past tense of the verb "pass." It is NEVER an adverb or preposition. Reading something like "he walked passed" is like fingernails on a chalkboard which completely pulls me out of the story and has me swearing at the author because of the interruption. And Mandrake did that to me 3 times in this book. Without that, I might have been inclined to give this 4 stars, but such shoddy (note the Ds, shotty is a medical term -- another glaring error that interrupted my reading) editing will never get that high a rating.
June 10, 2020
I hated archer since the beginning but I couldn’t not like him a little bit at the end. He’s so dang cunning and I love that.
Talk about twisted and perverse. I was imagining the ending to be so totally different and I’m not disappointed at how it ends.
Love really is a killing machine
Talk about twisted and perverse. I was imagining the ending to be so totally different and I’m not disappointed at how it ends.
Love really is a killing machine
Want to read
March 8, 20228.5, threesome, dark, Archer has two men obsessed with him: a cop and a serial killer; archer is manipulative and craves blood. multiple pov
all the books in this series are COMPLETE standalones, and can be read in any order
all the books in this series are COMPLETE standalones, and can be read in any order
June 21, 2024
Tę książkę podesłała mi koleżanka z pytaniem, czy znajdę w tym sens. Odpowiedź jest prosta, nie widzę w tym sensu, ba! Nie widzę sensu w istnieniu tego dzieła, ale oczywiście są różne gusta i o nich się nie dyskutuje 😉
dnf
December 14, 2021i just couldn't get into it, dnfing at 32%
Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews