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Playing With Knives
Life is so hard when you want to live like a magpie, stealing anything shiny you find, but you live in a small town where everyone knows your face.
Nothing exciting ever happens here, unless you count us getting our very own movie rental shop right next to the sheriff’s station.
Which, for the record, I don’t.
That is, nothing exciting happens until my roommate is murdered and her body washes up on the riverbank for the police to find.
Confused and angry, all I can really do is move on and let the police handle things…right?
Wrong. I can use the questionable life skills God saw fit to give me and be the best stalker-I mean, investigator-anyone has ever seen.
Until four sexy as sin strangers waltz into town like we’re some kind of fun tourist destination rather than the most boring place on earth.
Lysander, Azriel, Nikos, and Rhys don’t belong in this town. Something’s off with them. Something is wrong behind their shrewd gazes and swoon-worthy looks. More suspicious still, they show up right as my roommate was found, and the reasons they give for coming here are flimsy at best.
At worst? I’m starting to think they killed her, or they know who did.
Is it coincidence that they’re here just after the first murder in over a decade occurs?
And even if I’m wrong, what happens if the dust settles and I can’t keep living the only life I know?
Well, let’s just hope my body doesn’t end up in the river too.
18+ Dark Reverse Harem Romance. PWK contains graphic sex scenes and detailed violent acts that may be triggering for some readers. There are also MM and MMFMM scenes and relationships.
Nothing exciting ever happens here, unless you count us getting our very own movie rental shop right next to the sheriff’s station.
Which, for the record, I don’t.
That is, nothing exciting happens until my roommate is murdered and her body washes up on the riverbank for the police to find.
Confused and angry, all I can really do is move on and let the police handle things…right?
Wrong. I can use the questionable life skills God saw fit to give me and be the best stalker-I mean, investigator-anyone has ever seen.
Until four sexy as sin strangers waltz into town like we’re some kind of fun tourist destination rather than the most boring place on earth.
Lysander, Azriel, Nikos, and Rhys don’t belong in this town. Something’s off with them. Something is wrong behind their shrewd gazes and swoon-worthy looks. More suspicious still, they show up right as my roommate was found, and the reasons they give for coming here are flimsy at best.
At worst? I’m starting to think they killed her, or they know who did.
Is it coincidence that they’re here just after the first murder in over a decade occurs?
And even if I’m wrong, what happens if the dust settles and I can’t keep living the only life I know?
Well, let’s just hope my body doesn’t end up in the river too.
18+ Dark Reverse Harem Romance. PWK contains graphic sex scenes and detailed violent acts that may be triggering for some readers. There are also MM and MMFMM scenes and relationships.
474 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 30, 2021
698 people are currently reading
2835 people want to read
About the author
A.J. Merlin
37 books2,066 followersAJ Merlin would rather write epic love stories than live them. I mean, who wants to limit themselves to only falling in love once? She is obsessed with dark fantasy, true crime, and also dogs. From serial killers to voyeurs all the way down to the devil himself, AJ's specialty is in writing irredeemable heroes who somehow still manage to captivate their heroines (and her readers).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 403 reviews
September 14, 2021
I am pleasantly surprised at how well this book kept my attention. A.J. Merlin is a new to me author, and I look forward to her future books. On my dark scale, it’s medium Gray.
Willow, aka Will, is the female protagonist in this story is such a cute little thief. She had me laughing a time ot two. Will already feels like an outcast in her town because of her mother and now dealing with the death of her roommate. I will say she handles it like a champ. Then she meets the boys, new to the town; they are very intriguing. Let’s not forget mysterious and dangerous.
Who doesn't like psychopaths in a book? If you don’t, this is not for you. These guys have no remorse.
The book is dark, full of angst, steam with a great plot and character development. The is charTers just fit so well together. The first half of the book is more of a slow burn than buckle-up. It’s fast-paced, and your put on one hell of a ride.
June 15, 2022
Playing with knives
I dont know how to Rate this. Legit. 2.5 ⭐️ but like. Lower than that ??
I couldn’t NOT read it because I needed to know who or what they are but. Man.
Disappointing.
Mini play by play of the book::
53% of the way in. FIFTY THREE. And so far. Nothing of importance has happened.
A lot of talking. Stalking. Then light kidnapping and yet. No answers given. No one seems to like each other. The FMC gets caught EVERY TIME she does ANYTHING.
She’s scared of everything and it’s super annoying.
She is super annoying and Whiny like. Omg.
So. They are randomly having sex now. At 58% in. Like. Out of the blue. So. There’s that.
It’s not a slow burn with tension. It’s a slow burn with zero talking or getting to know each other then boom. Spice. 🤷🏻♀️
All of this build up. What are they ?! What do they do ?
For the WORST ANSWER EVER 😂🤣 I can’t. Omg.
And now they. What? Want to keep her ??
They go from no contact. To sex. To this maybe love type of affection. And it’s annoying because I needed some kind of build up. Not 280 pages of shitty stalking to lead to kidnapping then this. I dont know.
78% in and now they are in a relationship but also I know NOTHING about anyone and so therefore. Do not care.
Character development?! What is that?! I dont know. It’s certainly not here.
So. I dont know it’s now like this cop drama and it feels like it’s from left field.
We get the badass Will for the last three chapters and I have to say. If she would have been actually a character for the whole book I would have 5 star this book.
Alas. She feels fake. Popping out of nowhere.
And then it just ends.
🙄
I dont know how to Rate this. Legit. 2.5 ⭐️ but like. Lower than that ??
I couldn’t NOT read it because I needed to know who or what they are but. Man.
Disappointing.
Mini play by play of the book::
53% of the way in. FIFTY THREE. And so far. Nothing of importance has happened.
A lot of talking. Stalking. Then light kidnapping and yet. No answers given. No one seems to like each other. The FMC gets caught EVERY TIME she does ANYTHING.
She’s scared of everything and it’s super annoying.
She is super annoying and Whiny like. Omg.
So. They are randomly having sex now. At 58% in. Like. Out of the blue. So. There’s that.
It’s not a slow burn with tension. It’s a slow burn with zero talking or getting to know each other then boom. Spice. 🤷🏻♀️
All of this build up. What are they ?! What do they do ?
For the WORST ANSWER EVER 😂🤣 I can’t. Omg.
And now they. What? Want to keep her ??
They go from no contact. To sex. To this maybe love type of affection. And it’s annoying because I needed some kind of build up. Not 280 pages of shitty stalking to lead to kidnapping then this. I dont know.
78% in and now they are in a relationship but also I know NOTHING about anyone and so therefore. Do not care.
Character development?! What is that?! I dont know. It’s certainly not here.
So. I dont know it’s now like this cop drama and it feels like it’s from left field.
We get the badass Will for the last three chapters and I have to say. If she would have been actually a character for the whole book I would have 5 star this book.
Alas. She feels fake. Popping out of nowhere.
And then it just ends.
🙄
September 16, 2021
You know that feeling when you start a book and the first quote states: “Oh God, he knows I broke into Ms Clutterbucker’s house while she was away on vacation and stole her remote batteries!” Well, I know this is going to be an epic read in itself. Like, for real, who steals remote batteries to begin with in real life! This has to be the best quote I have ever read in a long time!!
I love nothing more than finding a new author that I’m going to obsess over. Well, I’m just floored over AJ Merlin’s novel “ Playing with Knives!” I could not put this story down. The mystery, the sexual and emotional tension, and the enigmatic characters all made for an ADDICTIVE read. I flew through this in one sitting- and I’m thirsty for more of AJ Merlin’s writing.
I love nothing more than finding a new author that I’m going to obsess over. Well, I’m just floored over AJ Merlin’s novel “ Playing with Knives!” I could not put this story down. The mystery, the sexual and emotional tension, and the enigmatic characters all made for an ADDICTIVE read. I flew through this in one sitting- and I’m thirsty for more of AJ Merlin’s writing.
August 31, 2024
This was so boring.
Fmc was so bland, all the men bland and unattractive. I know the men weren't "good," but they are so nonchalant about everything. They barely liked willow and 50% in I want to stop. Her friend being butchered wasn't the focus of the story. Willow didn't seem to care.
My issue isn't the slow burn but the whole story as no character, no shine. It's just DULL!!
I stopped at 60%
Fmc was so bland, all the men bland and unattractive. I know the men weren't "good," but they are so nonchalant about everything. They barely liked willow and 50% in I want to stop. Her friend being butchered wasn't the focus of the story. Willow didn't seem to care.
My issue isn't the slow burn but the whole story as no character, no shine. It's just DULL!!
I stopped at 60%
September 11, 2022
It took me awhile to warm up to this book and a lot of that stemmed around the heroine. Without giving away any spoilers it took me awhile to get to know and understand her while at the same time the whole book is basically her evolution to her best self. That being said this is a fu*ked up book and I did end up enjoying it overall. This is a RH standalone that certainly could been fleshed out some more but it does end happily which is always a plus. If you like serial killers, psychos who get freaky with knives or MM this may be the book for you. It was a fairly fast read, slower burn as nothing much happens until the halfway point. The relationship felt a little one sided a lot of the times as if the heroine was fawning over the guys. And no exaggeration, she really does become a wee bit obsessed. She gets a little stalker-y here and there but somehow their crazy likes hers, go figure. To be honest the whole relationship thing that took me awhile to grasp because the four and them really don’t mix from the outside. By the end I see the full picture and I’m not displeased, even if it took me a bit to catch up. I got my fill of psycho killers that’s for sure, though I do wish the whole shadow world organization they were involved in was explored a bit more.
March 11, 2022
Didn’t find Will very interesting and wondered why the guys did too. Up until the 50% I totally thought this book had a paranormal element. Whoops. I also didn’t like how we didn’t know what was going on with the guys until about the 40% mark, and even then nothing explained fully until later.
The writing was just okay but I found certain passages stilted and found myself rereading to catch things. This was just an *okay* read for me.
Ps: if you’re gonna have a villain protagonist kill a perfectly innocent cop in a moment of self actualization, do better with the writing and character development. I felt nothing but rage at Will, and had it not been above the 80% mark, would have called it quits.
The writing was just okay but I found certain passages stilted and found myself rereading to catch things. This was just an *okay* read for me.
Ps: if you’re gonna have a villain protagonist kill a perfectly innocent cop in a moment of self actualization, do better with the writing and character development. I felt nothing but rage at Will, and had it not been above the 80% mark, would have called it quits.
September 17, 2021
A SINFUL, Suspenseful, Angsty & KILLER Dark contemporary "Mafia (sort of)" Reverse-Harem romance which kept me on edge & guessing what'll happen next! It was full of Quirks, Steals, Shiny...Loved it!
Full RTC soon!
Full RTC soon!
September 15, 2021
Will is a animal loving klepto/magpie. When her roommate/BFF is murdered she’s decides to do some investigating on her own and the 4 hot strangers in town seem like likely suspects. But there is more to them than meets the eye. This is an RH with some dark themes, and told entirely form the FMC POV. There were a few times I really wanted a POV from the guys - they are all a little (lot) psycho but almost immediately become obsessed with Will. I’m kind of sad this is a stand-alone because I really wanted to spend more time with them all :) but I did think that the ending was done well,
January 26, 2024
So no werewolves
July 19, 2022
Just when you think this one couldn't get any better, there's the audio. The audiobooks can be pretty hit or miss for me, but this one was great. The narrator was really good, will be interesting to see what else she narrates. All four of the guys were clear and the accents when needed...swoon. Usually listen to audiobooks aloud so I can multitask, unless of course they're book porn as my sister calls them. My fave's get the headphone treatment and played through non stop. Definitely one of my favorites.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 19, 2021
First one by this author, so didn’t know what to expect. I really liked it. A klepto and four murders in a game of stalking and obsession. Some of the break in moments were a little awkward, but I did like how long it took to get to the sex and how there was no damsel in distress, despite kidnapping and attempted attacks. It was fun. Kinks, M/M and lots of death.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 7, 2023
This is now the 5th book I've read by AJM and I'm obsessed.
-=- 3.5 stars -=-
We have:
-=-
All in all, I really enjoyed this.
It was such an interesting book to read because so much happened. It started with the murder of the h's roommate, and just took so many different turns.
I think compared to her other books that I've read, generally speaking, the RH aspect wasn't as strong to me- I just wished that the book was a duet or was just generally longer. Although I loved each of the guys, I don't think they equally got enough time for themselves.
I felt like there was so much more opportunity for some of the guys to get more of their own individual time, and considering it was written only in the h's POV, I really wanted to know more about them separately. I feel like it would've made their relationship feel a lot more cohesive like she's managed to do in some of her other books.
-=-
The only reason I'm giving it a 3.5 and not higher, aside from what I've said above, is that the pacing wasn't the best. The book's not as dark as you would expect it to be, and was pretty slow for quite a long time. I just wished that the switch from casual interest to infatuation/ smut wasn't as abrubpt, because it ultimately led to the ending feeling a little rushed to me.
That aside, I loved the vibes of this book. I'm obsessed with AJM's writing style (although there are so many editing issues in her books 😭)- because they're just so binge-able.
This book definitely wasn't my favourite by her, but I really did enjoy it. AJM has gotten me out of a HUGE slump, so this binge-read is so worth it.
-=- 3.5 stars -=-
We have:
※ Subtle murder mystery vibes
※ Thief/ kleptomaniac heroine
※ 4 psychotic but different heroes (kinks for days 💀)
※ Found family
※ Cute pets 🥹
-=-
All in all, I really enjoyed this.
..••°°°°••..
"Was someone stalking them?
Well, someone other than me?"
°°••....••°°ˎ
It was such an interesting book to read because so much happened. It started with the murder of the h's roommate, and just took so many different turns.
I think compared to her other books that I've read, generally speaking, the RH aspect wasn't as strong to me- I just wished that the book was a duet or was just generally longer. Although I loved each of the guys, I don't think they equally got enough time for themselves.
I felt like there was so much more opportunity for some of the guys to get more of their own individual time, and considering it was written only in the h's POV, I really wanted to know more about them separately. I feel like it would've made their relationship feel a lot more cohesive like she's managed to do in some of her other books.
-=-
The only reason I'm giving it a 3.5 and not higher, aside from what I've said above, is that the pacing wasn't the best. The book's not as dark as you would expect it to be, and was pretty slow for quite a long time. I just wished that the switch from casual interest to infatuation/ smut wasn't as abrubpt, because it ultimately led to the ending feeling a little rushed to me.
That aside, I loved the vibes of this book. I'm obsessed with AJM's writing style (although there are so many editing issues in her books 😭)- because they're just so binge-able.
This book definitely wasn't my favourite by her, but I really did enjoy it. AJM has gotten me out of a HUGE slump, so this binge-read is so worth it.
September 14, 2021
You know a book’s going to be fun when it starts with a thought like:
Who steals remote batteries? A klepto like Willow Carlysle is the answer to that question. She loves stealing things that “would prove to be a minor inconvenience, and taking batteries accomplished that.” This isn’t a story about Will, the inconvenient thief. This is a story about Will, a woman who gets caught up with the Pack. She has no idea what she’s walking into when she ‘steals’ Lysander’s wallet or breaks into the Pack’s Air b’n’b to find out more about them, but truthfully she was involved with them from the moment her roommate Ashley was murdered. She just didn’t know it yet.
Kleptomania aside, Will is a character with a lot of depth behind her. I’ve read quite a few murderously crazy reverse harem type novels recently, and one thing the main characters all have in common is the enjoyment of the kill and sometimes even a near-psychotic lack of remorse over their actions. Will does not fit that mould. She struggles with the fact that she’s killed somebody, even though it was more than deserved; she realises that her lack of guilt is not a normal response – it’s as if she knows that despite the dark things she ends up doing to protect herself and the pack, she needs to retain her humanity.
Merlin has created some wonderfully distinct characters that blend intense with playful while still managing to seem “just not right” or even a little unhinged at times. The individual members of the harem are prone to mood swings, making their actions and responses excitingly unpredictable.
"Oh God, he knows I broke into Ms. Clutterbucker’s house while she was away on vacation and stole her remote batteries."
Who steals remote batteries? A klepto like Willow Carlysle is the answer to that question. She loves stealing things that “would prove to be a minor inconvenience, and taking batteries accomplished that.” This isn’t a story about Will, the inconvenient thief. This is a story about Will, a woman who gets caught up with the Pack. She has no idea what she’s walking into when she ‘steals’ Lysander’s wallet or breaks into the Pack’s Air b’n’b to find out more about them, but truthfully she was involved with them from the moment her roommate Ashley was murdered. She just didn’t know it yet.
Kleptomania aside, Will is a character with a lot of depth behind her. I’ve read quite a few murderously crazy reverse harem type novels recently, and one thing the main characters all have in common is the enjoyment of the kill and sometimes even a near-psychotic lack of remorse over their actions. Will does not fit that mould. She struggles with the fact that she’s killed somebody, even though it was more than deserved; she realises that her lack of guilt is not a normal response – it’s as if she knows that despite the dark things she ends up doing to protect herself and the pack, she needs to retain her humanity.
“He would’ve killed you,” Rhys went on, tucking his face against my throat so that his nose skimmed my shoulder lightly.
“I didn’t want to kill him.”
“Own it. There’s no going back now.” He used his grip on my hands to twist the glass by increments, and watched Donald’s face twist into an expression of agony. “No apologies to be made either. Look at where you stabbed him.”
Merlin has created some wonderfully distinct characters that blend intense with playful while still managing to seem “just not right” or even a little unhinged at times. The individual members of the harem are prone to mood swings, making their actions and responses excitingly unpredictable.
Curiosity killed the cat, Lysander whispered in my ear, though I knew that the echoing memory had to be just that.
And I don’t think anything at all will bring you back, little cat.
September 7, 2021
"Curiosity killed the cat. and I don't think satisfaction will bring this kitten back"
Yessss 👌🏼 I never knew I needed this book in my life, but hell yeah I did. THESE GUYS!!! I've read a lot of RH and all different kinds. Usually you get all the different types... but, in this book they are all dark and scary as f*ck!! I really want sure if they would kill her or bang her 😂 all of them had me on edge, Lysander and the guys remind me of Diesel from DOV a little..and we all know how much I love him. Well, they are all pretty similar to him with how dark and twisted they are 😈 I love how they are a threat and danger to anyone EXCEPT Will 😍 in a sweet twisted way 😂... the storyline was refreshing too, I love how it was the lead female who hunted them down. Not quite realising the consequences in doing so 😅😂 it was actually pretty funny too! 😆 I really enjoyed it! ... if you are a law abiding citizen and don't like people getting away with illegal stuff the you would probably dislike this book alot 😂 I think it was great haha.
"I like you too much to stab you..."
Yessss 👌🏼 I never knew I needed this book in my life, but hell yeah I did. THESE GUYS!!! I've read a lot of RH and all different kinds. Usually you get all the different types... but, in this book they are all dark and scary as f*ck!! I really want sure if they would kill her or bang her 😂 all of them had me on edge, Lysander and the guys remind me of Diesel from DOV a little..and we all know how much I love him. Well, they are all pretty similar to him with how dark and twisted they are 😈 I love how they are a threat and danger to anyone EXCEPT Will 😍 in a sweet twisted way 😂... the storyline was refreshing too, I love how it was the lead female who hunted them down. Not quite realising the consequences in doing so 😅😂 it was actually pretty funny too! 😆 I really enjoyed it! ... if you are a law abiding citizen and don't like people getting away with illegal stuff the you would probably dislike this book alot 😂 I think it was great haha.
"I like you too much to stab you..."
November 15, 2021
This was fun! Yes, it got unrealistic because how are four men in control of the chicago police?? Like how? But whatever.
The best part was the tension and the suspense in the beginning when you’re not sure how mean the guys will be. What didn’t make it dark dark is that the heroine was never afraid of rape. (That’s one of the unrealistic bits) She was afraid shitless but rape is not something she ever thought of directly. That made the book safer and allowed leeway for the guys to be a scary. Does that makes sense?
So, if you like things a little dark but don’t want to feel that nauseous anxiety that dark romance authors oh so love to inspire, this is a good choice!
The best part was the tension and the suspense in the beginning when you’re not sure how mean the guys will be. What didn’t make it dark dark is that the heroine was never afraid of rape. (That’s one of the unrealistic bits) She was afraid shitless but rape is not something she ever thought of directly. That made the book safer and allowed leeway for the guys to be a scary. Does that makes sense?
So, if you like things a little dark but don’t want to feel that nauseous anxiety that dark romance authors oh so love to inspire, this is a good choice!
December 14, 2022
Stars ▷ ✨✨✨✨✨
Spice ▷ 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
POV ▷ 1st person, single POV
Rep ▷ 🌈
▷ Standalone
Themes/Tropes ▷RH/Poly/Dark/Contemp
Triggers ▷ Animal Cruelty/CH 32 PG 322-324/Summary
KU ▷ Yes + Audio (ya'll get the audio)
Pet Names ▷ Little girl, princess, pretty girl, darling girl, sweet girl, baby girl, gorgeous girl
Spice ▷ 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
POV ▷ 1st person, single POV
Rep ▷ 🌈
▷ Standalone
Themes/Tropes ▷RH/Poly/Dark/Contemp
Triggers ▷ Animal Cruelty/CH 32 PG 322-324/Summary
KU ▷ Yes + Audio (ya'll get the audio)
Pet Names ▷ Little girl, princess, pretty girl, darling girl, sweet girl, baby girl, gorgeous girl
Read
October 6, 2025Dnf
October 16, 2024
Mega! Vorallem die zweite Hälfte hat mir richtig gut gefallen und wegen mir hätte es von da an noch eine Weile weiter gehen können. Der erste Hälfte fand ich leider etwas zäh, aber der Rest hat das definitiv wieder wett gemacht.
Ich habe etwas gebraucht um mit Will warm zu werden, da sie vorallem am Anfang sehr widersprüchlich handelt. Das wurde später zum Glück besser, auch wenn die deutliche Entwicklung wirklich recht spät kam.
Die Jungs bzw the pack fand ich richtig toll. Ich fand die unterschiedlichen Personas richtig gut dargestellt und auch wenn alle ziemlich psychotisch sind, waren sie.... Kann man sympathisch sagen? Keine Ahnung, ich fand sie auf jeden Fall toll und war froh dass sie immer mehr ins Bild gerückt sind.
Auch die Entwicklung zusammen mit Will hat mir gefallen und dazu war der Smut auch echt gut geschrieben. Auch wenn man das nicht erwartet, war das Ende irgendwie echt süß und hatte dadurch einen schönen Abschluss.
Ich habe etwas gebraucht um mit Will warm zu werden, da sie vorallem am Anfang sehr widersprüchlich handelt. Das wurde später zum Glück besser, auch wenn die deutliche Entwicklung wirklich recht spät kam.
Die Jungs bzw the pack fand ich richtig toll. Ich fand die unterschiedlichen Personas richtig gut dargestellt und auch wenn alle ziemlich psychotisch sind, waren sie.... Kann man sympathisch sagen? Keine Ahnung, ich fand sie auf jeden Fall toll und war froh dass sie immer mehr ins Bild gerückt sind.
Auch die Entwicklung zusammen mit Will hat mir gefallen und dazu war der Smut auch echt gut geschrieben. Auch wenn man das nicht erwartet, war das Ende irgendwie echt süß und hatte dadurch einen schönen Abschluss.
September 22, 2021
For me, Merlin is one of those authors that I consistently enjoy. I really like her Summoner series, definitely dug into the first book in her omegaverse series, and while this one was a much different flavor than those stories, I'm glad I had a chance to read it.
Will is a fun character. She's got some of the components of Merlin's other leading ladies in the sense that she's a bit awkward, maybe not the most socially adept or generally social person, and she's got a little bit of baggage. But none of that holds her back. She's really on the start of a journey because the mysterious men who roll into town-Lysander, Nykos, Azriel, and Rhys-are a catalyst for her entire view of herself basically going up in flames.
The men are going to be a good hook for many, I think. We have a bit of variety, and even though there are some of the familiar roles-the smooth talker, the nice guy, the grump, the bossy one-the "pack" share a common bond: they're not afraid to get a little bloody. Given the right circumstances, or most circumstances honestly, they enjoy it. So, if you're looking for some men who likes knives, the color red, and are especially fond of making a mess, they are going to appeal to you. Even though we don't get a super detailed view of who they each are, Merlin does a nice job of giving us what we need in order to have each man be easy to categorize and separate out in your mind. You won't be getting confused about who is who, and while you may wind up sharing my overall view of the story, you'll enjoy the ride while you're on it.
Overall, I need this to have more.
That's the reason for the four stars. Playing with Knives has some fire, has some fun, has some kink, and there's, oh yeah, s*xy serial killers, but it feels a little incomplete.
I'm not 100% sure what the plan is for Will, whether there will be more and this will become a series, or if Playing with Knives is all we're ever going to get. While Merlin does craft a story that's well written, entertaining, and has enough tension to keep you engaged, it's lacking a little of the depth that I would want for this to be a five-star standing on its own.
I like what I see, most definitely, or it wouldn't have earned four stars, but I need to know more about the world and *family* Lysander, Nykos, Azriel, and Rhys are a part of, how Will grows and whether she descends further into the transformation and self-realization she starts in Playing with Knives, and I especially want the men to be more fleshed out and given more history.
Will is a fun character. She's got some of the components of Merlin's other leading ladies in the sense that she's a bit awkward, maybe not the most socially adept or generally social person, and she's got a little bit of baggage. But none of that holds her back. She's really on the start of a journey because the mysterious men who roll into town-Lysander, Nykos, Azriel, and Rhys-are a catalyst for her entire view of herself basically going up in flames.
The men are going to be a good hook for many, I think. We have a bit of variety, and even though there are some of the familiar roles-the smooth talker, the nice guy, the grump, the bossy one-the "pack" share a common bond: they're not afraid to get a little bloody. Given the right circumstances, or most circumstances honestly, they enjoy it. So, if you're looking for some men who likes knives, the color red, and are especially fond of making a mess, they are going to appeal to you. Even though we don't get a super detailed view of who they each are, Merlin does a nice job of giving us what we need in order to have each man be easy to categorize and separate out in your mind. You won't be getting confused about who is who, and while you may wind up sharing my overall view of the story, you'll enjoy the ride while you're on it.
Overall, I need this to have more.
That's the reason for the four stars. Playing with Knives has some fire, has some fun, has some kink, and there's, oh yeah, s*xy serial killers, but it feels a little incomplete.
I'm not 100% sure what the plan is for Will, whether there will be more and this will become a series, or if Playing with Knives is all we're ever going to get. While Merlin does craft a story that's well written, entertaining, and has enough tension to keep you engaged, it's lacking a little of the depth that I would want for this to be a five-star standing on its own.
I like what I see, most definitely, or it wouldn't have earned four stars, but I need to know more about the world and *family* Lysander, Nykos, Azriel, and Rhys are a part of, how Will grows and whether she descends further into the transformation and self-realization she starts in Playing with Knives, and I especially want the men to be more fleshed out and given more history.
August 20, 2023
Playing with knives is a dark, whychoose standalone novel.
Story:
⭐⭐⭐⭐💫/5
Willow a.k.a Wil, was not just a volunteer for an animal shelter, but also a small time, burglar/petty battery thief. When she found out that her roommate, Ashley, had been murdered, she was in a dark place and had the urge to find out who did it. When four mysterious strangers, Lysander, Azriel, Nikos and Rhys, rolls into town and crosses paths with her that's when her her life gets flipped upside-down....well, for the most part.
Okay, I really enjoyed this one. Yes, it was a slow build, but the development and story progression was so good. Wil was such a likable character. She was a bit stubborn and naive, but I think she was also really relatable. She had decent growth and was a fun character all around. I did hope to see more of Nikos and Rhys' relationship/MM action, but it was definitely spicy. Don't EVEN get me started on her helicopter mother, my god! I felt Wil's second hand stress! This had such a satisfying ending and definitely worth a re-listen.
Narration
⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
Leanne Woodward did such an amazing job. She put so much life and feelings into this book. She also did a fantastic job on Nikos and Rhys' accent. I really enjoyed it.
Story:
⭐⭐⭐⭐💫/5
Willow a.k.a Wil, was not just a volunteer for an animal shelter, but also a small time, burglar/petty battery thief. When she found out that her roommate, Ashley, had been murdered, she was in a dark place and had the urge to find out who did it. When four mysterious strangers, Lysander, Azriel, Nikos and Rhys, rolls into town and crosses paths with her that's when her her life gets flipped upside-down....well, for the most part.
Okay, I really enjoyed this one. Yes, it was a slow build, but the development and story progression was so good. Wil was such a likable character. She was a bit stubborn and naive, but I think she was also really relatable. She had decent growth and was a fun character all around. I did hope to see more of Nikos and Rhys' relationship/MM action, but it was definitely spicy. Don't EVEN get me started on her helicopter mother, my god! I felt Wil's second hand stress! This had such a satisfying ending and definitely worth a re-listen.
Narration
⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
Leanne Woodward did such an amazing job. She put so much life and feelings into this book. She also did a fantastic job on Nikos and Rhys' accent. I really enjoyed it.
July 13, 2022
Playing With Knives was an unusual Reverse harem tale and I will admit I had mixed feeling about it. I though the storyline was interesting as it was a bit different from my usual reads. There was mystery and suspense, hott steamy scenes, kidnapping and a cast of memorable characters. I like each of the Male Characters. They were all psychopaths and each one brought something different to the story and they made me want to know more about them. However it was the Female Main character I had issues with. I thought she was childish and very immature and her long drawn out internal mind chatter was not to my liking. In spite of that this was an interesting tale and I would recommend it to lovers of dark RH romance.
I listened to the audiobook version of this story which was narrated by Leanne Woodward who did a fantastic job with the characters. She gave them all their own voice and emotion and really brought the characters to life. It was a pleasure listening to her narrate this story.
TheFlock AudiobookObsession
I listened to the audiobook version of this story which was narrated by Leanne Woodward who did a fantastic job with the characters. She gave them all their own voice and emotion and really brought the characters to life. It was a pleasure listening to her narrate this story.
TheFlock AudiobookObsession
October 3, 2021
Playing With Knives by AJ Merlin is a contemporary dark reverse harem romance.
The book does come with a warning "18+ Dark Reverse Harem Romance. PWK contains graphic sex scenes and detailed violent acts that may be triggering for some readers. There are also MM and MMFMM scenes and relationships."
This is the first book of AJ's that I have read and it definitely won't be my last. I was pulled in from the very beginning and couldn't wait to see what was going to happen next. I loved that this book is not your typical dark romance, it kept me guessing on how the story would go. I really enjoyed the relationship that bloomed between Willow, Lysander, Azriel, Nykos, and Rhys.
I would recommend this book if you like dark romances, reverse harems, or romantic suspense.
The book does come with a warning "18+ Dark Reverse Harem Romance. PWK contains graphic sex scenes and detailed violent acts that may be triggering for some readers. There are also MM and MMFMM scenes and relationships."
This is the first book of AJ's that I have read and it definitely won't be my last. I was pulled in from the very beginning and couldn't wait to see what was going to happen next. I loved that this book is not your typical dark romance, it kept me guessing on how the story would go. I really enjoyed the relationship that bloomed between Willow, Lysander, Azriel, Nykos, and Rhys.
I would recommend this book if you like dark romances, reverse harems, or romantic suspense.
September 21, 2021
Being new to Ms.Merlin's work I've been looking forward to picking up her books! As soon as i stumbled across this book while scrolling through social media I knew i had to read it first! I enjoyed it!
I liked how (Will) Willow's journey was quick to get my attention! I wasn't quite sure what all was going to happen in this story and I enjoyed the way it kept me on my toes. I felt many different things throughout with these characters as well which I liked!
With Playing With Knives, Ms.Merlin has created such a good and dark read!
*I volunteered to read and review a copy of this book from Affinity Author Services / the author*
I liked how (Will) Willow's journey was quick to get my attention! I wasn't quite sure what all was going to happen in this story and I enjoyed the way it kept me on my toes. I felt many different things throughout with these characters as well which I liked!
With Playing With Knives, Ms.Merlin has created such a good and dark read!
*I volunteered to read and review a copy of this book from Affinity Author Services / the author*
December 17, 2021
I rolled my eyes so much at Will...she was on the verge of tstl for me.
I don't get what the guys saw in her and didn't understand the connection
I don't get what the guys saw in her and didn't understand the connection
May 6, 2022
Love me a good serial killer romance read!!!
August 3, 2022
I enjoyed listen to this even if sometimes it got me a little loss
August 12, 2022
Loved this one! It was a new to me author but because of this book I’ll definitely be reading more! This one definitely had me invested and I couldn’t get enough of it!
Definitely recommend it
Definitely recommend it
November 6, 2022
Absolutely loved this group of psychos. Will was a great lead FMC, I loved her inquisitive mind and how it led them together in the end. Read it in one sitting!
August 16, 2023
AHHH SO SO GOOD!!!
November 20, 2025
A Dark Why Choose Romance
Genre: dark romance
Tropes: why choose (or is it a reverse harem...), kidnapping, stalking (she stalks them!!), mafia, insta-lust, found family
Spice: 4/5 ...the hookups didn't start until about 40% in, but after that, it was soooo spicy
Content Warnings: violence
Medium: ebook on KU and audiobook on Hoopla
POV: 1st person POV, told from FMC's perspective
Audiobook: narrated by a woman. good.
Will (Willow) is a walking contradiction, and it is entertaining and endearing. She hates her life in rural Michigan, but she doesn't leave. She has no emotional response to any trauma, but get her mom on the phone and she has a meltdown. She risks everything for a roommate who she barely knows. She works with fur babies at local animal shelter and supports herself through petty theft.
When a group of men mysteriously come to town the same day her roommate's dead body is found in the river, Will KNOWS that they are somehow involved in the crime. She throws all of her carefully curated ninja skills out the window when it comes to these guys, making the impulsive and stupid decision to spy on them.
She finds out that the men are involved, but not in the way that she thinks. Things come to a head early in the story, and the true killer is revealed, leaving Will reeling with even more questions. It leads to Will impulsively pursuing the guys on their own turf in Chicago. Not the brightest idea, considering she is not as sneaky as she once believed herself to be, and these men have proven themselves to be extremely dangerous.
The MMC's, Lysander, Azriel, Nickolai and Rhysand call themselves The Pack. For 2 seconds, I was thinking, "Is this OMEGAVERSE? Are they SHIFTERS?!" Alas, no. Ha, ha! They are violent, small-time mobsters, and they are all curious about Will...either as a new plaything or as a threat to their business.
One thing leads to another, and Will finds herself chained up in their house. It is evident that her life is not at stake, and they are all DTF. The switch flips pretty quick, and Will goes from sleuthing to sex. There is no real relationship-building. The spice is really hot, especially when we find out one of the guys has Dom/Sub tendencies and Will has a praise kink.
A lesser and more money-hungry author would have stretched this story into a series. I really appreciate that she kept it as a standalone. I do wish that more time would have been devoted to the murders of the roommate and the cafe owner, who were 2 of Will's only friends. I feel like these incidents were lacking impact.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this sexy fast-paced book. Will and her quirky personality is endearing and funny. The action is thrilling. The men are delicious. I will be reading more from A.J. Merlin.
Genre: dark romance
Tropes: why choose (or is it a reverse harem...), kidnapping, stalking (she stalks them!!), mafia, insta-lust, found family
Spice: 4/5 ...the hookups didn't start until about 40% in, but after that, it was soooo spicy
Content Warnings: violence
Medium: ebook on KU and audiobook on Hoopla
POV: 1st person POV, told from FMC's perspective
Audiobook: narrated by a woman. good.
Will (Willow) is a walking contradiction, and it is entertaining and endearing. She hates her life in rural Michigan, but she doesn't leave. She has no emotional response to any trauma, but get her mom on the phone and she has a meltdown. She risks everything for a roommate who she barely knows. She works with fur babies at local animal shelter and supports herself through petty theft.
When a group of men mysteriously come to town the same day her roommate's dead body is found in the river, Will KNOWS that they are somehow involved in the crime. She throws all of her carefully curated ninja skills out the window when it comes to these guys, making the impulsive and stupid decision to spy on them.
She finds out that the men are involved, but not in the way that she thinks. Things come to a head early in the story, and the true killer is revealed, leaving Will reeling with even more questions. It leads to Will impulsively pursuing the guys on their own turf in Chicago. Not the brightest idea, considering she is not as sneaky as she once believed herself to be, and these men have proven themselves to be extremely dangerous.
The MMC's, Lysander, Azriel, Nickolai and Rhysand call themselves The Pack. For 2 seconds, I was thinking, "Is this OMEGAVERSE? Are they SHIFTERS?!" Alas, no. Ha, ha! They are violent, small-time mobsters, and they are all curious about Will...either as a new plaything or as a threat to their business.
One thing leads to another, and Will finds herself chained up in their house. It is evident that her life is not at stake, and they are all DTF. The switch flips pretty quick, and Will goes from sleuthing to sex. There is no real relationship-building. The spice is really hot, especially when we find out one of the guys has Dom/Sub tendencies and Will has a praise kink.
A lesser and more money-hungry author would have stretched this story into a series. I really appreciate that she kept it as a standalone. I do wish that more time would have been devoted to the murders of the roommate and the cafe owner, who were 2 of Will's only friends. I feel like these incidents were lacking impact.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this sexy fast-paced book. Will and her quirky personality is endearing and funny. The action is thrilling. The men are delicious. I will be reading more from A.J. Merlin.
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