With her husband dead, Justine finds herself balancing newfound freedom and a blossoming relationship with Campbell. They steal her away to a slice of paradise in France, but it’s a working holiday, and their new contract is a heavy hitter. A local diplomat wants her ex-boyfriend—also her ex-bodyguard—dead. He’s been stalking her for weeks, and his years of experience as a Special Forces interrogator make him a hard target to catch. He’ll kill anyone who gets too close: Campbell included. Campbell is used to giving up everything for the job, but old memories and old friends leave a weakness to exploit. Justine takes Campbell back from the brink of a violent collapse, but it comes at a dire price. What survives afterwards will change them both forever. The books in the Fatal Fidelity series are best read in order.
Tags: LGBTQIA+, contemporary, romantic suspense, nonbinary, queer, bisexual, interracial, established couple, assassin, dark, #ownvoices, PTSD, revenge, 51,000 words
Rien is a queer, nonbinary author of LGBTQ+ romance, erotica, and horror. They love writing charged sex scenes, consent-informed kink, and hot criminal love interests who revel in the above.
When not writing, Rien spends their time at the gym, making tea, or angling for yet another platinum trophy in a video game.
I started this book right after In the Shadow of Love by J. E. Leak and I found the same kind of film noir atmosphere. But while in the former, the feeling comes from the era, in this series, it’s from the characters, Campbell in particular. They’re becoming less of a mystery to Justine but not so much to us readers. I at once enjoy that and find it unsettling, but not in a bad way.
How I feel about Campbell is pretty much how I feel about this series so far: I can’t help liking them, rooting for them, and I kinda hate that I do because it messes with my moral sense. It’s also a testament to the author’s talent that they make me care so much. Although Justine is an interesting character too, it’s Campbell who grabbed my attention from the start and makes me look forward to book 3.
It all comes back to the author’s writing, which works a lot better for me in this series than in Her Wolf in the Wild, which I found a bit tame in comparison. I often associate thrilling with fast-paced but this book proves me wrong. There’s a constant feeling of danger, of urgency, that I guess comes from Campbell at all times. Beyond the story, beyond the romance (because yes, love is a big part of the story), this book is a captivating study of a complex person, of an attempt to rebuild what’s been broken by life, extreme circumstances, and grief. The contrast between the cold-blooded assassin and the attentive lover is fascinating, all the more so as the cold-blooded facade starts to crumble.
Love Burns Bright, the third Fatal Fidelity book, will be out later this year.
I received a copy from the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
4 stars. Campbell and Justine is the most badass couple I swear. I love that Campbell taught Justine ways to defend herself (and she ends up using some of those techniques later on in a scene I loved) and how Justine is the one to bring Campbell back from the edge when they are so close to snapping. I’m being vague as hell because of spoilers but it was so good. Their chemistry is through the roof and they both have gone through such fantastic growth as individuals. Justine has learned how to take control of her life and her wants after her awful marriage, Campbell has learned to deal with their past and all of the pain they’ve been carrying around.
Also, I like the way the author explores kink with these two. There was some very slight breath play in book one and this one had bondage and. it. was. fucking. hot. I want more of this series and the way it ended left me hopeful that there will be at least one more. I will definitely be picking up more from this author.
A fun, dark, explosive sequel to the first book in the series! I was really happy when I realised that we still had more to get from Justine and Campbell, and this delivered perfectly. Without getting into too much detail, this follows them as they travel abroad, deepen their relationship, and as Campbell takes on another contract. The intrigue and suspense was just as well done as the first book; it didn't have the immediate hook, but because I now love the characters, I had all the incentive I needed. This gives us a little more insight into Campbell, their mindset, and what happened in their past, even while they still remain a bit shrouded in mystery. They're still the biggest dreamboat. I also liked the role Justine plays here, and how we get to see her coming back into her own. The book does acknowledge how fast they fell for one another, but their romance still feels super strong. This was sexy in all the right ways and had me feeling EMOTIONS. Once again, I really enjoyed Gray's writing; this isn't exactly noir, but it sets that kind of vibe perfectly. I loved the settings, flipping between the Parisian countryside and the metropolis. And in general, it just felt really tightly written and well-researched.
Great stuff once again; very excited to get into this author's other work!
Love Bleeds Deep is a full length novel and picks up right after Love Kills Twice with Justine and Campbell travelling to France. It’s an opportunity for the two to be together without suspicion or legal attention and where Campbell has a new target. Campbell is hired by a diplomat to kill a sadistic ex whose obsession is spiraling out of control. There’s more intrigue and violence in this book as the target is a particularly cunning bastard whose special ops training makes him much more difficult to kill.
With a longer format, there’s more time to peel back the layers of the characters, providing more insight and further cementing the connection between the two – emotionally and physically. With the introduction of a few more secondary characters, we see the loyalty, concern and respect that Campbell engenders in those around them. With this, Campbell’s past coalesces a bit more and there’s a clearer picture of the darkness that they keep firmly under control and makes them even more fascinating. Justine’s confidence continues to grow and to acknowledge some of her darker desires. That steely resolve that had been hidden so deep grows as she steps out from the shadow of her marriage and embraces Campbell and their darkness.
I enjoyed this for the queer hotness (that scene with the rope was excellent) as usual, but Campbell's military history continues to be a huge buzzkill. It's more detailed here, though the author leaves the location and which war exactly vague. Picture any random people of colour in the global south and it should serve well enough. The author and narrative are critical of the military industrial complex but only as it pertains to the (white, American) military personnel themselves, not their victims.
While it goes into Justine's emotional state as a sub, her insecurities and doubts, it doesn't do the same for Campbell as a dom, when I would expect them to be quite conflicted about it considering their past. (I'm getting quite tired of these stone cold doms who have all the emotional depth of wet cardboard.)
Lots of ptsd and suicidal ideation, also cw for ex boyfriend turned stalker, bomb threat, domestic abuse. I am really enjoying this trilogy but do think it has some obvious flaws.
I love a morally grey character, and I think Campbell is probably as dark a grey as you can get without being completely in the black. They've fast become my favourite non-binary character, and whilst I know the topics of this series won't be for everyone, I never hesitate to recommend the first book in the series, so I was very glad that this sequel held its own for me.
Following on where Live Kills Twice left off, Campbell is called to France for work, giving us the opportunity to experience more about how Campbell lives their life, and how Justine is now she is out from under her husband's control. The setting gives lots of opportunities for this exploration, but the thing I loved the most was Campbell coming to terms with their love for Justine.
I often struggle with novellas, wanting more than the work has space to give, but novellas for this series work perfectly. The pace is driven forwards so as to both accentuate the danger in their lives and their relationship, but also serves to highlight the important moments between them in their pursuit for what might be considered justice, rather than focussing on the minutia of their plans.
This was an escape for me in a different way from the other romances I usually read, but I'm thoroughly looking forward to book 3 and the continuation of their journey together.
Book Review: Love Bleeds Deep (Fatal Fidelity #2) by Rien Gray A Dark, Intimate, and Unflinching Noir Romance Love Bleeds Deep, the second instalment in Rien Gray’s Fatal Fidelity series, raises the stakes and emotional intensity established in the first book. The story follows Justine, newly free from her abusive husband, as she travels to France with Campbell—the enigmatic, non-binary assassin she once hired. Their relationship, born from violence and necessity, deepens as they navigate both a new contract and the lingering trauma that shadows them both. Plot and Setting: In this novel, Campbell is hired by a diplomat to eliminate her dangerous ex-boyfriend, an ex-military interrogator whose threats and violence have escalated beyond what the authorities can handle. The setting shifts to France, providing a moody, atmospheric backdrop for both the assassination plot and the couple’s evolving relationship. The narrative moves seamlessly between Campbell’s professional life and their growing personal connection with Justine, balancing suspense with intimate character moments. Characterization and Themes: Gray excels at crafting morally complex, deeply human characters. Campbell, previously depicted as nearly unbreakable, is revealed here to be struggling with PTSD and the psychological toll of their violent profession. Their vulnerabilities and internal battles are portrayed with realism and empathy, making them a compelling antihero. Justine, meanwhile, is finding her footing after years of abuse, rediscovering her passion for art and learning to trust and love again. The relationship between Justine and Campbell is intense, both sexually and emotionally, with the second book delving even deeper into their chemistry and mutual support. Their dynamic is shaped by shared trauma and vulnerability, and the novel explores how love can be both a source of strength and a potential weakness in a world defined by danger. Writing and Tone: Gray’s prose is smooth and evocative, maintaining a constant sense of danger and urgency even when the pacing is measured. The depiction of PTSD, especially Campbell’s, is unflinching and authentic, adding depth to the character and the narrative. The book’s tone is raw and noir, with a focus on the psychological and emotional consequences of violence rather than just the action itself. Critical Perspective: While the novel is praised for its character work and emotional depth, some readers noted that Campbell—established as a top-tier assassin—makes a few uncharacteristic mistakes that drive the plot’s tension, which feels inconsistent with their previously established skills. Nonetheless, I believe that the overall storytelling, atmosphere, and relationship development are even stronger than the first book. Conclusion: Love Bleeds Deep is a gripping, emotionally charged noir romance that skilfully blends suspense, psychological realism, and queer representation. It stands out for its morally grey characters, unvarnished portrayal of trauma, and the intense, evolving relationship at its heart. Highly recommended for readers who appreciate high-stakes narratives, complex antiheroes, and romance that doesn’t shy away from darkness or vulnerability.
Happy release day to the book Love Bleeds Deep by Rien Gray! It's the second book in the Fatal Fidelity series, which is about Justine, a survivor of an abusive marriage, and Campbell, the assassin she hired to kill her husband. The series are erotica novellas following Justine and Campbell's romantic relationship as well as Campbell's career as an assassin. The book is also OwnVoices, featuring a nonbinary love interest written by a nonbinary author. I only got my arc a few days ago, so I was just able to finish it today in time for the release. Here's my review!
Overall rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐💫
The positive:
I said it in my review of the first book, but I'll say it again here: Campbell is the nonbinary heart throb you've been searching for.
Some erotica is just wall to wall sex (which is great!) but this isn't that. There are so many discussions going on in this books about recovery from abuse and different forms of PTSD, as well as about Campbell's relationship with their own body (both as a nonbinary person navigating sex and sexuality, but also as an assassin who uses their body as a tool). This book is also a scathing indictment of the military industrial complex. It's amazing it all fits into a novella this short. The descriptions are amazingly vivid as well.
The negative: I missed some of the action plotline from the first book. There we got the intrigue of possible double crossing and betrayal, the mystery of Campbell's past, and the thrill of planning an assassination. In this book the actual assassination that Campbell is planning takes a back seat to romantic development. The action here really only picks up near the end, but once it picks up it is absolutely riveting.
The verdict: I'm totally enthralled with this series and plan to follow it to the bitter end. The growth of the characters and their relationship from one book to the next is so palpable and I can't wait to see where the series takes Justine and Campbell.
It was great to see more from Campbell and Justine, as I like the vibe of their relationship and reading about Campbell and her life as an assassin. Justine and Campbell met when Justine hired Campbell to kill her husband and they fit together, in bed and out. Because of how they met, Justine already knows that Campbell is an assassin, but Campbell doesn’t think she deserves Justine. However, Campbell is so enamored of her and dotes on her just the same.
We get more backstory here on Campbell and their time in the military. It still isn’t gone into in any great depth, but there is more to work with to give a more complete picture of them. In the first book, Campbell came across as incredibly strong and here we are shown the vulnerabilities and cracks caused by trauma and PTSD. We also see more of how Campbell views themselves and I find them to be an interesting character.
Even better than the first book, this one takes us to France and after a sadistic man who deserves to die a painful and slow death. We get to see how Campbell and Justine’s relationship takes roots and becomes stronger thanks to the former opening up and the latter unveiling a side of herself no one thought she had. Contrary to what they think, Justine is far more strong and accepting of Campbell’s nature because after her life with Richard a new woman has arises and she is no delicate flower. A great book and so looking forward the next one!
Another 3.5, but this time I rounded up. Victor is a more menacing villain than Richard, but like the last book, Campbell’s assignment pales in comparison to their relationship with Justine. Once again, they scorch the pages 🔥🔥🔥
Though this time they both struggle/deal with their past traumas, which deepen their relationship to more than just physical. I hope Gray writes more Fatal Fidelity books 🤞🏼
Spice still hits just right~ I loved the deeper dive into Campbell’s past, too.
Everything else was just fine. Maybe if there is a third and we learn more about Justine I will like her more? But she is still very bland here. Everything to do with the hit was very rushed. You didn’t really get to see Campbell flexing any sort of skill. All the focus was on their past.
I would definitely read more in this universe. Just want Justine to be fleshed out more.
I enjoyed this book as much as the first in the series, which is a tough thing to accomplish. I'm really drawn to stories about traumatized people learning to trust and love again. As always, the emotional intimacy was stellar. The pacing was great; even when I had an idea of what would happen next, I was still very invested and annoyed when I got interrupted! Glad I picked up this series when so many were already published.
An excellent continuation of "Love Kills Twice", going deftly into trauma, violence, and navigating a romance in the face of hefty internal AND external conflict. Always impressed with how Gray maintains Justine's dignity and autonomy even in stressful, imperiled situations. I want more!
The growing trust between Justine and Campbell strengthens. I love how Campbell is discovering the depths of Justine’s love for them. Plenty of thrilling and sexy scenes to sate my hunger. This story is page turner from start to finish.
3,5/5 Oh my loves ,I have no idea how they falled in love so fast but so hard ,I felt like I was reading about a couple that has been together for years ,they're made for eachother, and I was really happy how in this book we got a lot more of side characters, I hope I will see more of Alexandra 😍
Even better than the first! The plot is just enough, without the sprawling mess thrillers sometimes get bogged down in. Can’t wait to see where this couple ends up next!
I'm already halfway through the third installment as I write this, so trying not to let it color my judgment too much. But that is to say this series is a delight-- each novella has an independent storyline, but the relationship development keeps me reading on from one to the next. Love Bleeds Deep challenges everything from the previous installment: the sudden romance, violence as attractive, revenge as fulfilling. Death may have saved Justine, but Campbell's skills were borne from a place of immense pain. Although we already knew they were more than just another slinky noir hero, seeing more of the traumatized ex-military Campbell was no less compelling, as is the contrast between cold brutality and tender compassion. It beautifully dances the line between glorifying and vilifying the assassin; at some point, you can't help but feel like the author decided to set up shop and make that gray area their home.
It's such a refreshing story. I read the first book of this series in one sitting, and this one was the same, just couldn't put the book down until it was done.
The writing flows wonderfully, things are described with just enough detail to give me a vivid image without making my eyes glaze over. Justine and Campbell's relationship is sweet, healthy, but still has just enough of an edge to stay interesting throughout! I'm already looking forward to more of them!
The side characters have such strong personalities, it's hard not to become curious about them. I'd love to see more of Campbell's circle of buddies and how they engage each other.
Definitely worth the price if you enjoy a thrilling romance with some heat to it!
arc copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review
Yall know that I absolutely fell head over heels for the first book in this series and let me tell you.. this one was even better! Rien just continues to blow me away with how phenomenal they are at storytelling and at how easy they make it for us to fall for these characters again and again.
In this sequel, we get to see Justine travel with Campbell and be with them as they complete a job. The stakes in this one! I was on the edge of my seat, fully glued to each page up until the end. If you like suspense with your romance and a hint of kidnapping? Read this series immediately, seriously! You will not regret it. So, so good.