Sometimes you run across a book that is different from what you thought it was going to be. And that’s okay. It might take you longer to get into the story. I usually keep plugging along and eventually it comes together.
This book was one of those experiences. But it turned out to be a good story overall. Check out my thoughts below.
Disclaimer: Affiliate Link included
Axe and Grind by Taylor Hutton
Publisher: Berkley
Publication date: January 6, 2026
ISBN-13: 978-0593817773
OVERVIEW:
Josie Greene has always been a glass half-full kind of girl. But after a messy breakup, she’s broke, betrayed, and barely getting by. Even her trusted tarot cards point to chaos in her future. And they’re right: Axe MacKenzie needs her help.
As part of the tech CEO’s latest covert mission, Axe has been developing a simulator to create any user’s “Perfect Match,” and bubbly Josie is the ideal woman to test his product. When the gorgeous, reclusive billionaire makes her an offer—fake date him so he can launch his groundbreaking AI dating app—Josie’s in no position to refuse.
But Axe’s two worlds collide as the criminal underworld corrupts their experimental fling. What started as steamy role-play quickly spirals into a very real threat, leaving both Josie and Axe no choice but to uncover their well-buried pasts. With her life on the line, Josie will have to trust the man who has created the ultimate virtual illusion—and who might be hiding the most sinister truths of all…
Axe and Grind by Taylor Hutton Review
The story definitely stood apart from other edgy, darkish romances I’ve read. There were some strong points and a few weaker ones for me.
I liked the overall premise and concept, but the male lead felt a bit inconsistent. On one hand, he had this unsettling CIA background—casually torturing someone in the middle of a party, which was strange and surprisingly brushed off by other characters.
On the other hand, he was portrayed as a brilliant tech developer creating the perfect AI model, completely smitten with our female lead. The contrast between “dark operative” and “soft tech genius in love” didn’t always mesh smoothly.
The female lead came across as more believable in her development. Despite her medical issues, she maintained a generally positive attitude, and I really enjoyed their dynamic as a couple. Some scenes were undeniably odd—especially the virtual-reality sex scene—but they were also creative, sexy, and memorable.
Both characters had their own side plots as well: her eccentric mother and his eccentric potential investor, who ended up playing a bigger role than expected.
Overall, the writing was strong, but certain elements didn’t land as well for me. Axe and Grind hits many tropes readers love—fake dating, darker romance vibes (especially toward the end), a touch of the paranormal through tarot cards, and plenty of steamy moments alongside the slow-building connection.
The story also delivers some welcome twists, and the authors do a great job keeping you slightly off-balance until everything clicks together at the end. It’s a book where you benefit from reading between the lines and paying attention to the details.
3.5 STARS!!
Disclaimer: Affiliate Links have been included – Chris has personally reviewed the product listed above. She has not received any monetary compensation for her review but did receive a free ebook so she could evaluate and use it for this post. Her thoughts & opinions in this review are unbiased & honest and your opinions may differ.
Hi! I’m Chris! Just a Midlife Wife sharing about life’s journey; screaming and kicking through it while supposedly aging gracefully…
Focusing on healthy living, low carb & keto, things I am loving right now, and life in general.