Book Review: The Hitman and the Psychic by Colleen Helme (Jocelyn Drake)
Sometimes, a book crosses your path that feels tailor-made for you. That was exactly my experience with The Hitman and the Psychic, a delightful blend of humor, suspense, and sizzling romance penned by the talented Colleen Helme under her pen name, Jocelyn Drake. As a huge fan of Helme’s Shelby Nichols series, I was immediately drawn to the intriguing premise: a hitman who just happens to need a psychic bodyguard. How could I resist?
At its heart, this novel explores themes of trust, love, and the unexpected ways people can complement one another. The story revolves around Stone, a tough-as-nails hitman whose life takes a dramatic turn when he becomes the target of an assassin. Enter Serenity, the fiercely independent psychic hired to protect him—a dynamic that sets the stage for both action and romance. Their chemistry is explosive, fluctuating between humorous banter and deep emotional connection, which kept me turning pages late into the night.
Helme has a knack for writing characters that feel vividly real, and both Stone and Serenity are no exceptions. Stone’s rugged exterior hides a man grappling with vulnerability, while Serenity is a sassy, nearly-divorced woman finding her footing in a chaotic world. Their forced proximity creates a delightful tension, leading to laugh-out-loud moments amid the suspenseful backdrop. My favorite part? The way Serenity’s psychic visions comically skew toward romantic fantasies about Stone, a touch that adds both levity and warmth to the narrative.
One of the standout aspects of Helme’s writing in this book is her ability to balance humor with suspense. The brisk pacing kept me engaged, and every twist and turn felt perfectly timed. From dodging bullets to steamy encounters, the rollercoaster-like plot kept my heart racing. "Who will save him from her?" is a line that encapsulates the playful, teasing nature of their romance, perfectly representing the interplay between danger and desire.
Readers will appreciate the testimonials from other fans who echo my sentiments: this is a book that has everything—action, intrigue, and enough comedic elements to warrant laughter. Jeanie Jackson nails it when she describes The Hitman and the Psychic as the “perfect book for fans of Colleen Helme’s Shelby Nichols series." The connection to the original series enriches the reading experience, making it feel like a reunion with familiar faces that fans have come to love.
While some readers may take issue with the graphic scenes, it is important to note that Helme provides sufficient warning. For those looking for a fun, light-hearted escape, this book delivers on numerous fronts.
In conclusion, if you crave an engaging romantic comedy filled with suspense and a dash of the supernatural, The Hitman and the Psychic is the perfect pick. Whether you’re already a fan of Helme’s work or new to her writing, this story offers something for everyone. As for me, I found myself utterly enchanted by the journey of Stone and Serenity, and I can’t help but hope for more adventures with this delightful duo. If you’re ready for a romantic rollercoaster that will leave you smiling, jump on for the ride—you won’t regret it!