Step into the shadowy, pulse-pounding world of the Hitman series by Jessica Clare and Jen Frederick, where love and danger collide in a gritty blend of romantic suspense! This captivating saga follows professional killers navigating the criminal underworld, their lives entwined with innocent souls who spark unexpected romance. With raw emotion, high-stakes action, and steamy passion, Hitman has carved a niche in the thriller-romance genre, hooking readers who crave intensity with a heart.
From the streets of Minneapolis to the slums of Rio, the series delivers a rollercoaster of survival, redemption, and love against all odds. Whether you’re a fan of mafia tales or sizzling chemistry, Hitman’s unique mix of dark themes and tender moments makes it a must-read for thrill-seekers.
How Hitman Began
The Hitman series was born from the collaboration of New York Times bestselling author Jessica Clare and USA Today bestselling author Jen Frederick. Clare, known for her erotic contemporary romances, and Frederick, a master of emotionally charged stories, joined forces to craft a world where hardened assassins find their hearts softened by love. Launched in 2013 with Last Hit, the series was inspired by the authors’ shared love for gritty crime dramas and the challenge of humanizing deeply flawed characters. Their goal? To weave authentic, unapologetic tales of the underworld without glorifying its darkness.
The Heart of Hitman
The series spans six books, each diving into the lives of complex characters. Last Hit (2013) introduces Nikolai, a Russian hitman trained by the Bratva, who becomes obsessed with Daisy, a naïve young woman escaping her sheltered past. Their intense, insta-lust romance unfolds against a backdrop of mafia intrigue in Minneapolis. Last Breath (2014) shifts to Rio, where Daniel, a former soldier turned mercenary, rescues Regan from a brothel, sparking a slow-burn love story amid danger. Last Kiss (2015) follows Vasily, a scarred Bratva leader, and Naomi, a kidnapped hacker, blending suspense with emotional depth. Last Hope (2015) closes the saga with Mendoza, a jungle mercenary, and Ava, a woman caught in a deadly plot.
Hitman’s themes of redemption and survival shine through its raw portrayal of the criminal world. The authors don’t shy away from violence or moral ambiguity, yet they balance it with tender, erotic romance. Settings like Minneapolis apartments and Rio’s slums ground the stories in vivid realism, while the alpha-male heroes—flawed, possessive, yet vulnerable—pair with strong, witty heroines who challenge their darkness. This fusion of thriller pacing and emotional intimacy sets Hitman apart.
Why Hitman Resonates
The Hitman series has left a mark on the romantic suspense genre, captivating fans with its bold, unfiltered storytelling. Readers praise its ability to make hardened killers relatable, with Nikolai and Daniel becoming fan favorites for their protective, alpha charm. The series’ refusal to sanitize the underworld resonates with those who enjoy gritty, authentic narratives, while its steamy romances appeal to erotic fiction lovers. Though not a cultural juggernaut, Hitman’s loyal fanbase and strong Goodreads ratings (averaging 3.5–4 stars) highlight its niche appeal.
Its legacy lies in proving that love can bloom in the darkest corners, inspiring readers to root for unlikely heroes. The collaboration between Clare and Frederick also showcases how two distinct voices can create a cohesive, addictive series, influencing aspiring authors in the genre.
- First Book: Last Hit (2013)
- Total Books: 6
- Genre: Romantic Suspense
- Authors: Jessica Clare, Jen Frederick
Ready to dive into a world of danger and desire? Grab Last Hit and let the Hitman series sweep you into its thrilling, steamy embrace!