Review of Coffee, Kisses, and Bullets

Michael Valentine · Post by **Michael Valentine** » 09 Sep 2023, 14:39

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Coffee, Kisses, and Bullets" by David K. Hall.]

4 out of 5 stars

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Coffee, Kisses, and Bullets by David K. Hall is an intriguing read that has it all: suspense, crime, action, a little science fiction, and romance.

This fictional novel is set in contemporary times in the United States of America, where the main character of the book is faced with different life challenges that lead him to the Night of the Apocalypse. Ryan Sleeper, an invincible, bisexual, walking billion-dollar science project who is trained to kill and not protect, to harbor no emotion whatsoever towards the human race, and to love no man, is seen going against these exact trainings as his handlers turn their backs on him. The Night of the Apocalypse is coming, and there are many unanswered questions. Will he get to meet and bare his heart to his love interest? Will the events leading to the Night of the Apocalypse be his toughest mission yet, and will his handlers finally get a hold of him after eluding them for so long? There are so many intriguing questions that can only be answered when you delve into this exciting read.

I loved so many things about this book. I think the book title captivated me from the beginning when I chose this book. It is really catchy and will surely draw readers to read the book. I loved the little science and technology the author infused in the book, explaining in detail how the technology of Ryan Sleeper’s body worked and how it came to be. It was mind-boggling. I also loved that despite the author keeping the scenes of the side characters short and simple, they still had depth and were not just passing characters with no background; this was essential to the beauty of the story. I loved the fact that this book was fast-paced, and the author maintained an interesting narration regardless.

Also, I appreciated the imagery; the author did not leave any loopholes for me to be lost and wonder what happened in any scene. In all the fight scenes with Ryan Sleeper, he explained every little detail, which made me feel like I was watching him in action rather than just reading. Also, I loved how he gave us a small view of how the US command SOCOM worked and little snippets of how things may be run there; it was enlightening. The plot was exciting throughout, and the author kept me on the lookout, itching for what was going to happen next.

One of the things I didn’t like about the book was that the buildup of the plot was slow; it was not until towards the end of the book that the main event, which was the Night of the Apocalypse, started to unfold and come to light, which I believe some readers will not really appreciate. Also, I noticed that towards the end of the book I started seeing more errors, which was not the case in the early stages of the book. It looked like the later part of the book was not properly edited. Overall, I still feel the book was professionally edited.

I rate this book 4 out of 5 stars. This is because I felt that the author dwelt more on the character of Ryan Sleeper than on the Night of the Apocalypse, much to my displeasure. Also, the negative aspects I mentioned influenced my decision to remove a star. However, I loved most parts of the book and would want other book lovers to read it. Hence, the high rating.

I will recommend this book to lovers of crime fiction who are looking for a book full of suspense and intrigue. Lovers of unconventional romance will also have a fun time reading this book.

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Coffee, Kisses, and Bullets
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Jennifer Coxon · Post by **Jennifer Coxon** » 11 Sep 2023, 12:19

Great review. I'm glad it's not just me that was drawn in by the title.

I appreciate your honesty about the focus being on the character rather than the crescendo to the action, although I similarly don't like it when that build-up happens too close to the end. For that reason, I don't think I will be reading this book.

Dalhatu Usu · Post by **Dalhatu Usu** » 13 Sep 2023, 04:12

Ryan Sleeper a science project is bisexual? Wow. Even though it's fiction, I'm not really a big fan of fusing science projects and some sexual ability and emotions. But I think this is a very wonderful review. Every inch of the novel is spelt out. This may just be the next book on my bookshelf.

NetMassimo · Post by **NetMassimo** » 13 Sep 2023, 14:51

I guess this is the kind of story you like if you appreciate a "slow burn", not if you prefer to be thrown in the middle of action right from the start. Thank you for your great review!

RutvikPatel · Post by **RutvikPatel** » 17 Sep 2023, 04:05

"Coffee, Kisses, and Bullets" by David K. Hall is a captivating mix of suspense, romance, and science fiction, featuring a complex protagonist and a well-paced plot. Some pacing issues and late-book errors are noted, but overall, it's recommended for fans of crime fiction and unconventional romance.

Carlebastra · Post by **Carlebastra** » 25 Sep 2023, 02:08

"David K. Hall's 'Coffee, Kisses, and Bullets' weaves a tapestry of emotions, blending the warmth of coffee, the tenderness of kisses, and the sharpness of bullets. It's a journey through love, loss, and resilience, reminding us that even amidst chaos, love can be a lifeline. Hall's words resonate like a soothing sip of coffee, comforting like a gentle kiss, and hit you with the impact of a bullet, leaving a mark on your soul. This book is a testament to the power of storytelling, where every word is a carefully crafted bullet that pierces your heart, leaving you breathless and craving more. It's a masterpiece that lingers in your thoughts like the taste of your favorite brew, a poignant reminder of the beauty and pain that life can offer.