May Dawson's Selena is a thrilling dive into the world of crime, deception, and unexpected romance. The novel sets itself apart with its unique premise: a female assassin, Selena, who finds herself entangled in a web of familial loyalty, criminal enterprise, and complicated emotions. The story is a fascinating blend of action, suspense, and romance, making it a compelling read for fans of the genre.

The central theme of Selena revolves around identity and transformation. Selena, a Belladonna assassin, is initially portrayed as a cold, calculating figure with a singular mission: to eliminate Gavin Crude, a notorious mob kingpin. However, her journey takes an unexpected turn when she becomes engaged to Aiden Crude, Gavin's son. This twist sets the stage for a complex exploration of Selena's character as she navigates her dual roles as an assassin and a fake fiancée.

Selena's character development is one of the novel's strongest aspects. Dawson crafts a protagonist who is both fierce and vulnerable, a woman who must reconcile her past with her present circumstances. As Selena becomes more involved with Aiden and his friends, Dominic and Xander, she begins to question her own motivations and the life she has led. This internal conflict adds depth to her character and keeps readers engaged as they witness her transformation from a solitary assassin to someone capable of forming genuine connections.

The dynamic between Selena and the three men—Aiden, Dominic, and Xander—is another highlight of the book. Aiden, the heir to the Crude empire, is a complex character in his own right. He is torn between his loyalty to his family and his growing feelings for Selena. His proposal of a fake engagement is a strategic move to satisfy his father's demands, but it also opens the door to unexpected emotions. The chemistry between Selena and Aiden is palpable, and their relationship evolves from one of convenience to something more profound.

Dominic and Xander, Aiden's closest allies, add further layers to the narrative. Dominic is portrayed as dangerous yet alluring, a man who is both a protector and a potential threat. Xander, on the other hand, is a talented artist with a troubled past, offering a softer, more introspective counterpoint to the other characters. Together, these three men challenge Selena's perceptions of loyalty, trust, and love, forcing her to reevaluate her mission and her place in their world.

The novel's setting—a dark, glamorous underworld of crime and power—serves as the perfect backdrop for the unfolding drama. Dawson's vivid descriptions bring this world to life, immersing readers in a realm where danger lurks around every corner and alliances are constantly shifting. The tension is palpable, and the stakes are high, keeping readers on the edge of their seats as they follow Selena's journey.

In terms of pacing, Selena strikes a balance between action-packed sequences and quieter, character-driven moments. The plot is well-structured, with enough twists and turns to maintain suspense without overwhelming the reader. Dawson's writing style is engaging and accessible, making it easy for readers to become invested in the story and its characters.

Comparatively, Selena shares thematic similarities with other novels in the romantic suspense genre, such as J.T. Geissinger's Dangerous Beauty series or Meghan March's Mount Trilogy. Like these works, Dawson's novel explores the intersection of love and danger, where characters must navigate treacherous waters to find their true selves. However, Selena distinguishes itself with its strong female protagonist and the intricate dynamics between the central characters, offering a fresh take on familiar tropes.

Overall, Selena is a captivating read that will appeal to fans of romantic suspense and crime fiction. May Dawson has crafted a story that is both thrilling and emotionally resonant, with well-developed characters and a plot that keeps readers guessing until the very end. The novel's exploration of identity, loyalty, and transformation makes it a thought-provoking addition to the genre, and its engaging narrative ensures that it will leave a lasting impression on its audience.

For those seeking a novel that combines the excitement of a crime thriller with the emotional depth of a romance, Selena is a must-read. Its compelling characters and intricate plot make it a standout in the world of romantic suspense, and it is sure to captivate readers from start to finish.