Twist of Fate: Syndicate Masters: Midwest

What do a disgraced journalist and the head of the New Orleans mob have in common? Nothing… except fate.

Good wrap to the series, lots of great stuff happening. However, it felt off to have a clan of Tigers in New Orleans and not make any mention of the wolf pack led by Jean-Michael Gautier. I really expected to see something happen between the two.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
The Reluctant Retiree

After being fired as a reporter in New York City, Quinn took advantage of a bequest from a relative and moved to New Orleans, trying to figure out what to do next. When one of the local papers gives her a chance, she makes the best of it, quickly becoming the Gazette’s rising star. Working with an informant, she sets her sights on a notorious Cartel.

Bodie is the head of the syndicate that controls the Crescent City. He wants to stop the Cartel from using the Port of New Orleans to import its new, deadly designer drug and using the Mississippi River to disburse it to the rest of the country.

Once he realized she was his fated mate, nothing would stop him from claiming her. After a not-so-chance encounter during Mardi Gras, Quinn finds herself bonded to the notorious gangster.

Excerpt

“Turning to a more positive thought—any ideas about where you might find your fated mate?”

“She is within the boundaries of our territory; she will not escape me.”

“If you are correct—and you usually are—then she is not a tigress. I have had people searching high and low, offering a substantial reward for information leading to her, but so far, we’ve got nothing. How long have you known about her, and what do you know?”

“I have known since my first breath that she existed, but it is only recently I have known she was near.”

“So, we’re looking for someone new to New Orleans.”

“Not necessarily. She could have been here for years, maybe even been born here. The knowledge of who she is only comes when you are ready, but the knowledge that she exists is given from the moment we are sentient.”

The Reviews

Redrabbitt
VINE VOICE
5.0 out of 5 stars STRENGTH AND HONOR
Reviewed in the United States on May 5, 2023
The story is the third and final story of a new Syndicate Masters--Midwest series which will bring Quinn Forrester, and Bodie Lambeau together. Quinn is an investigative reporter, originally from New York, who is now working for the New Orleans Gazette. It is Mardi Gras time in New Orleans and she is attending a party on a steamboat where she will have an encounter with Bodie Lambeau.

The story is like a Cinderella tale, where Quinn will be pampered and taken to the party, meet Bodie, and is seduced by him, they leave and return to his home for a night of passion. But Quinn only wanted a night—and Bodie knows she is his fated mate. Let the fireworks begin!

“I predict you will steal the heart and soul of a man at the party tonight. Take care that you cherish them. Now, let’s get you out of her so you can get home and have your hair and make-up done.”—Celeste

Quinn: This was a mistake.
Bodie: No chère, it was not.
Quinn: Look, Lambeau, I’m a crime reporter and you’re, well, you. You’re a gangster.
Bodie: I am who I am, and you are my perfect and fated mate.
Quinn: That’s BS. I mean the sex was great, but seriously this can’t happen again.
Bodie: It will happen again—two or three times a day minimum. There will even be days I keep you in our bed to enjoy you over and over again.
Quinn: That’s not happening. I am not becoming some kind of sex toy for El Tigre.
Bodie: Why ever not? I fully intend to be your sex toy as well. I mean for us to thoroughly enjoy each other. There will be very few times you initiate sex that I will turn you down.

Bodie: You are my mate, and you will be treated with respect and bask in my loving care.
Quinn: You are seriously delusional.
Bodie: I am not.
Quinn: Listen up, Lambeau, you can’t just walk into my life and steamroll me like this.
Bodie: As much as you aren’t going to like my answer. I just did.

“When we were on the steamboat, I knew my life was about to change irrevocably, but I couldn’t have imagined the enormity of that change.”

I really like Bodie and Quinn together. I like that he doesn’t dismiss her passion as an investigative reporter, but instead, takes her seriously, with the information she shares with him. But, as an alpha male, he is determined to keep his mate safe or let’s say, at least he tries to. The chemistry between them is explosive. I enjoyed the ingenuity of Quinn to do some of the things she does. Best of all, the epilogue gives closure, not only on them, but the previous two stories in this series.

JigsawGirl
4.0 out of 5 stars Was Quinn Set Up in NYC?
Reviewed in the United States on May 6, 2023
Bodie and Quinn's book can easily be read as a stand-alone. This story seemed to speed by for me. There were so many things I wish had been more detailed in the book, but I have always admitted to being a greedy reader.

The demise of Quinn's New York career didn't seem above board. It felt like there was more to it. I wanted someone to pay for what happened to her, lol.

I did enjoy the Cinderella aspect to the Mardi Grad ball. I wish there had been more detail or interaction in that scenario.

I wanted to know what happened to obnoxious Dave. It would have been great to see his reaction to Quinn's news.

Was Gutierrez ever made aware of what was going on? I enjoyed the book but I have to be honest. It did nothing to slake my need for vengeance, lol. I wanted Gutierrez to have ALL of the details and see his reaction.

Bodie's pursuit of Quinn took much less time than I anticipated. The attraction was fast. The romantic gesture surprising and sweet. The outcome intense and steamy. The relationship fiery and explosive. With all of that said, Bodie and Quinn did end up with their HEA.

I am sorry to see this series end. I would have loved to see more interaction between the syndicate masters together along with their fated mates.

I voluntarily read and reviewed the Advanced Reader Copy of this book.

The Scavenger: Club Southside Book 2

He can protect her but only if he can earn her trust!

When Royce is assigned to protect a new high profile client, he doesn’t understand how it’s any different from any other case… until he meets the woman he’s supposed to protect and hears her story.

Camille’s brothers work for Russian mafia boss, Aleksy Dokofsky. Three years ago in an ill-fated attempt to help them escape she witnessed the brutal killing of a senator’s family by a Russian kill team and her brothers deserted her as a distraction to the Feds. After being taken into custody she was placed in WITSEC. Now she has been brought to Chicago to testify against the Russian mafia boss.

#BookReview Stroke of Fortune: Syndicate Masters: Midwest

The present and future are always in motion and you can’t hide from either of them.

Mafia romances can be a bit tricky to write. Paranormal romance can also be a bit difficult to write. Delta has done a great job of combining the two tropes together. Bryony and Nolan are great together. The situation that they find themselves in is completely believable and enjoyable. Throw in a completely new set of shifters and you have a very different perspective!
The Reluctant Retiree

Bryony
Five years ago I drove away from my birthday party, my father, and his mafia organization. I’ve been living off the grid in Moab, Utah. When my father is brutally killed, I am suddenly a wanted woman by various entities, the Feds, the Cartel, my father’s odious second-in-command, and the head of the Gateway Syndicate, Nolan Hamilton, none of them good.

First, I decide to trade what I know to the Feds for protection. Until it turns out the agent in charge is on the Cartel’s payroll. Before he can deliver me to them, I get away and run to the only man powerful enough to keep me and my people safe… Nolan.

Nolan
The head of the Rust Belt Syndicate, has been murdered. His only heir is missing. Everyone, including myself, wants to find her. All of us want to take control of the once prosperous territory.

Then the sexy, curvy Bryony shows up on my doorstep asking for sanctuary. There are many reasons to force her to become my mate—her father’s organization, thwarting the Feds, taking on the Cartel, but the most compelling reason is she is my fated mate.

The Reviews

Redrabbitt
VINE VOICE
5.0 out of 5 stars I’LL MAKE HER AN OFFER SHE CAN’T REFUSE
Reviewed in the United States on April 7, 2023
The story is the second story of a new Syndicate Masters series and will be a new beginning for Bryony and Nolan. Bryony Gates is an otter shifter that has left the Bevy, not pleased with her father, and rather than being a mafia princess, plans to make her own way in the world. Nolan Hamilton knows of Bryony and has even been looking out for her for years.

The Rust Belt Syndicate, run by Bryony’s father, Bryan, is weak compared to when his father ran it. With Jared Pettigrew as his Beta, things are even more unstable. Bryony will come home, but leaves and goes into hiding where she creates her own happiness until Pettigrew shows up with his thugs, informs her that her father was murdered, and drags her back to their bevy.

Nolan Hamilton is over the Gateway Syndicate and his pride. He is concerned about the Gutierrez cartel moving into the area with drugs and when Gates is murdered, he learns that Bryony has been taken by Pettigrew. Let the game of Lion and Otter begin.

I liked the characters, their interactions, and for Nolan to learn that his fated mate is none other than Bryony Gates. When she falls into the hands of Pettigrew, that also places her at a greater risk of being bartered to the cartel. I love how smart and clever Bryony is, and even Nolan is impressed with his future lioness. He is willing to follow her around the world, just as long as he can keep her safe.

Rolf: Sounds to me like she is more in tune with being a lioness than an otter-shifter.
Nolan: True. It would seem she has the heart and soul of the lioness, but still, we shouldn’t underestimate what we are asking her to give up.

“Bryony had proven herself to be elusive, clever, and fearless—not bad traits to have in a mate once she had been claimed. Until then, they could prove to be formidable. But that was fine with Nolan. He’d always loved a good challenge.”

Nolan: Is it those who run criminal organizations, lion-shifters, or me in particular that you don’t care for?
Bryony: All of the above.
Nolan: You belong to me, mate—now and forever.
Bryony: No
Nolan: Yes. Surrender to me. Let me make you mine and together we will rule a dynasty second to none. I believe we are fated mates and we were destined to be together and keep our people and out futures safe. I wish I could give you time enough to court you and persuade you to see that I am right.
Bryony: How much time do I have to decide if I want to do this?
Nolan: None. Search your heart, Bryony. Listen to your soul.
Bryony: I choose you. Live or die, rise or fall I choose you.

“I get it, I do. I know for you and the pride, I have a role to play. It’s just not a role I ever saw myself playing or even aspiring to. There’s a small part of me that resents that I was just living in Utah, minding my own business and this whole thing just blew up and suddenly I’m everybody’s pawn in a deadly game I never wanted any part of.”

I loved the angst, mystery, danger, action, and adventure that takes place as Bryony submits to Nolan and accepts his claim. She isn’t meek, but he doesn’t want that. She has the heart of a lioness and good or bad, they will work together for both her people and his. The story does not end on a cliffhanger, but as a segue to the next book, Twist of Fate.

	Desn2004
4.0 out of 5 stars Enjoyable shifter, fated mates, and mafia read!!
Reviewed in the United States on April 7, 2023
Enjoyable shifter, fated mates, and mafia read!!

This was a good read in an interesting world. This is the first read from this series that I have read and is a stand alone. I enjoyed the FMC, she was strong, independent, and bad a**. The way she was able to take care of herself and get put of tight situations was amazing. I enjoyed the MMC as well, he was the perfect counterpart. Thus read was full of action and steam. You could tell there was chemistry, even though I felt the love scenes fell a little short for my tastes. Good read and I would read more from this series!!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Debbie A. Orazi
5.0 out of 5 stars Stroke of Fortune
Reviewed in the United States on April 12, 2023
This was a fated mates mafia paranormal romance.

Loved this story and the strong female lead. Highly recommend!

Bryony Gates was raised as a mafia princess of the Rust Belt Syndicate until she found out what her father did for a living. She refused to have anything to do with his syndicate, went away to school and later lived halfway across the country. She agrees to come home for a few days for her birthday, but had no intention is staying or going along with her father's plan to marry her off. She is an otter shifter and works in graphic design.

Nolan Hamilton is the alpha of the Gateway Syndicate across the river from her father's territory. He is a lion shifter. He has always kept an eye on Bryony's whereabouts because he knew her father would use her as a pawn especially if anything happened to her father. When her father is unalived by the Cartel he moved to have her brought to his estate for her safety.

Bryony is kidnapped by her father's beta Jared. He plans to force her to marry him and bear him a son. She escaped and goes to the St. Louis airport, booking a flight to Germany she is kidnapped by members of the Cartel. She manages to escape, make her flight and travel to Paris. Nolan brings her to his estate and talks her into mating with him (he realized she is his fated mate when he saw her at the airport). After spending the night together where he gives her the claiming bite to transition her to a lion shifter, she runs away to get time to deal with her confusion. Jared finds her and takes her to the Cartel safe house. Between Bryony, Nolan and his men they take out all the bad guys. She realizes she loves him and they get their HEA.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

Taming Her Heart (Wild Hearts Book 3)

Some men are off-limits to a convicted felon. The new police chief, is at the top of her list.

Convicted of a crime she didn’t commit, Morgan has no faith in the law or those who enforce it. When her best friend decides to play matchmaker between her and Chincoteague Island’s new chief of police, Nathan Shepherd, she is determined to fight her attraction to the man. When he finds her after she runs off the road to avoid an animal, her restraint is challenged in ways she did not expect.

Nate’s first meeting with Morgan went about as badly as a first meeting can go. She was dismissive and rude. He believes that the self-proclaimed wild child of Chincoteague needs to be tamed.

Can he vanquish the demons that have caused her so much hurt and pain before she leaves town for good?

The Reviews

Jigsaw Girl
There is a trigger warning at the beginning of this book. A SA was perpetrated on the main character Morgan. Including it in the book left me both confused and conflicted. Did it really add anything to the story?

In a sense, it explains her anger and resentment. It also makes me wonder if she could not have felt the same level of anger and resentment in the book without it. An unjust incarceration when innocent seems like it would be enough for the anger and resentment that Morgan expressed.

Morgan and Nate eventually settled in a relationship that worked for them. The way the relationship began made me more uncomfortable because of Morgan's previous experience than it would have had she not been subjected to the assault. I found myself questioning both of their behaviors even when I didn't want to.

Morgan's explanation about her experience in prison made this book feel different to me. It also didn't make much sense. Was she really that altruistic? Why was she? I found it difficult to get past Nate and Morgan's dynamic even when it became clear it was consensual.

I felt one way about the book if I took the first chapter into consideration. I felt another way about the book if I ignored the first chapter. As much as Nate and Morgan seemed to love and care for one another, it felt too much like there was an elephant in the room that was never addressed.

This was not a book I could just kick back, relax, and enjoy. Especially since I felt like I started out reading one book and ended up reading another. I had too many deep thoughts about this book. I would go with 2.5 or 3 stars.

Although Nate and Morgan ended up with their HEA, including that first chapter left me feeling like I couldn't give an honest review unless I considered the ENTIRE book. Not just Chapter 2 until "the end".

I voluntarily read and reviewed the Advanced Reader Copy of this book.


Amy Reads Romance
739 reviews
5 followers

March 24, 2023
After being wrongfully convicted, and having served her time, Morgan Jennings finds herself on Chincoteague Island in the Outer Banks of North Carolina. She expects to live a quiet life as an erotic novelist, and saving wild ponies from those who would hurt them. She encounters the new Chief of police as she is moving out of the local B&B into her new house, and is unimpressed. She has no use for those in authority. Nate Shepherd, however is smitten, and decides he is the one to tame her.

This is an incredible heroine. There is a trigger warning at the beginning of the book. Morgan is raped in prison, so be aware. It is not graphic or gratuitous. Morgan is justifiably angry, and Nate is a strong Alpha male who will make her want to submit to him, but not at first. When push comes to shove, Morgan really just needs someone to love her unconditionally, not despite her past, but because of the woman she is today. Beautifully written, this is possibly the best book I've read this year. The characters truly resonated with me, and the story begins tragically but the happily ever after suits the characters. This is a powerful book I can easily recommend as well worth the one click. I did receive a free advance review copy and am leaving my honest review

Donna Louise
763 reviews
10 followers

March 25, 2023
The start of this book may cause distress to some, but it is essential as it highlights
the reason for Morgan’s behavior towards law enforcement. The sex scenes are phenomenal. The chemistry was palpable, and each new encounter drew Morgan
and Nate close together. I like the inclusion of sex and spanking scenes in a book,
but this story has an overabundance of both. In saying that, I still enjoyed the book.
I also thought the ending was abrupt. I was glad when Nate caught Morgan’s
attention ending the game of cat and mouse.

Morgan’s story was complex, and she had an overload of baggage. Not only did she
survive, but she grew resilient. Her revenge was sweet. She lived on Chincoteague
Island, where she ran horse riding tours and rescued the wild ponies. Her other
passion was as an erotic romance writer. Morgan was no shrinking violet. She was
prickly and as wild as her ponies. Morgan bucked Nate every inch of the way. She was an interesting character. Someone who did not like to be told what to do yet thrived on it. The beauty of the book was when Morgan stopped fighting Nate and offered him her submission.

Nate was the local sheriff. He was captivated by Morgan despite her caustic tongue.
He believed in her innocence and made it his mission to exonerate her conviction.
Nate was a bulldozer and would not take no for an answer. He was domineering,
possessive, and protective in and out of the bedroom. It took his hard hand to win
Morgan’s heart and her trust.

This was a fast-paced action-packed book with an interesting storyline and likable
characters

#BookReview Reckless Mate: Mystic River Shifters Book 3

Not everyone is what they seem. Sometimes that’s good and sometimes not.

Kyra
My life is… complicated. I’m a deputy in the small town of Mystic River; my boss used to be my lover; and my brother is the local gangster. If that isn’t enough, Scott, the town’s very sexy baker, has told everyone that will listen that I am his fated mate.

Something is going on in my town and it seems to involve Scott and lots of secrets. An unfamiliar shifter dies suspiciously in my jail after sharing a cryptic message for “the baker.” The cause of death is unknown. My brother informs me, that Scott, who claims to be a Canadian lynx shifter, is not from Canada. Where he’s from is unknown but it’s definitely not Canada. Scott is hiding something. I will figure it out.

Scott
I came to Mystic River to hide in plain sight and pursue my love of all things baking. Baking isn’t necessarily what people think of as a hobby or profession for an alpha male lynx shifter, but after all I’ve seen and done, I crave peace almost as much as I crave Kyra, the beautiful curvy lynx shifter deputy.

After almost being killed, Kyra’s not looking for any kind of commitment. In fact, the idea that she might leave Mystic River is gaining in appeal, especially when she discovers that all of the people she holds dear have secrets they don’t want to reveal.

The Reviews

Kathy Heare Watts
TAKING ON THE SHADOW LEAGUE

The story is part of the new Mystic River Shifters. It will have a great cast of characters, including humans and shifters. While you could read this out of order, to fully understand the characters and interactions, it is best if they are read in written order, because it is an ongoing saga. Each story picks up from where the last one left off (especially within the epilogue.) This story will be between Scott and Myra.

Scott is a man with a secret past. He says he is from Canada but some of the phrases and words he uses leave that up in the air. The one thing he is exceptionally good at is being a baker. He also has told Kyra that she is his fated mate—something she vehemently verbally denies—but time will tell the truth. Kyra is the deputy sheriff of Mystic River, working under Sheriff Jax.

The story’s plot will have a call to Scott from a man from his past—and when the man shows up in Mystic River in the Sheriff’s office, he will give a short message to give to the baker. Kyra shares that with Scott but he tries to deny knowing who John Doe is. Even the town Doctor and Kyra’s brother, Colby, are acting strange and secretive.

“The baker. You need to tell him, they’re coming.”

The story is full of mystery, suspense, danger, action adventure, and secrets. Jax and Autumn have gone on their honeymoon now that Kyra has returned from her trip. She tries to get several people to be honest with her, but she knows that is holding onto secrets, and that includes the doctor, Scott, and her brother, Colby. Between the mysterious death of a stranger, and learning that a group that everyone jokes about being the bogeyman is real and that the man she finally is falling for is not whom she believes—you would think Kyra would wash her hands of it all. But Kyra refuses to keep hiding her feelings for Scott and will take a stand against all the alphas of Mystic River—be they friends or foes.

“At what point would she listen to her instinct, her soul, and trust he was where she wanted to be regardless of it that was in Mystic River or not.”

How far will Kyra go to save the man, her fated mate, knowing that in the process they both could die? She won’t let anyone stand in her way. The chemistry between them sizzles off the pages. When they are together, it is as if fate ordained them to be together. This isn’t the end, there is a greater battle coming in May when Shameless Mate releases.

#BookReview Kiss of Luck: Syndicate Masters: Midwest

She got away once. It won’t happen again

Do you have any idea how hard it is not to laugh out loud in the middle of this book? There was more than one spot when I struggled not to laugh. The couple were great together. I truly enjoyed it from start to finish!
The Reluctant Retiree

Saylor
My unique relationship with Beck ten years ago made me the perfect choice for an undercover operation. My job… bring down Randall Beckett and his Phoenix Syndicate. In all these years I have never shared his secrets, what makes me think I can now?

Beck
A decade ago my uncle sent Saylor away. Now she’s back to attend his funeral. What she doesn’t know is that I’m aware that the real reason she’s here is to infiltrate my organization. The Organized Crime Bureau is in for a shock. I mean to claim her as my mate and they can do nothing to stop me.

The Reviews

JigsawGirl
4.0 out of 5 stars The OCB Was Immediately Sus
Reviewed in the United States 🇺🇸 on March 4, 2023
Saylor was a pleasant surprise. She used her strength as an analyst to protect herself, take out her adversaries, and think her way through determining their end game. I resented the OCB's plans for Saylor to infiltrate the Phoenix Syndicate. They really had no idea about Beck's possible reaction.

I did like Saylor and Beck together. As much as he wanted to protect her, he seemed to respect her talents. Beck was the Alpha and he seemed to mellow out just a touch after he connected with Saylor.

I also appreciated the touches of action, suspense, and mystery. I liked the witty banter Saylor had with not only Beck, but Joe and Mrs. C. as well.

One thing I didn't expect was the information Beck's uncle provided to Saylor. On top of that, the response and acknowledgment or lack thereof later in the book was unexpected. There were some other things I would have liked to have seen in Beck and Saylor's story, but it was an enjoyable read.

I voluntarily read and reviewed the Advanced Reader Copy of this book.

Amazon Customer
5.0 out of 5 stars Kiss of Luck, Midwest Syndicate
Reviewed in the United States 🇺🇸 on March 6, 2023
Kiss of Luck is a worthy entry into the Syndicate Masters series. I love Beck (Randall Beckett) and Saylor Keaton. For those of you who, like me, have read all the other Syndicate Masters series, the first thing you will notice is that there is absolutely no tie to any of the previous Syndicate Masters. I have become so accustomed to the intermingling and references to other Syndicates and their people that, I will admit, it rather jarred me throughout the book. But that did not stop me from thoroughly enjoying Kiss of Luck and look forward to the second book in the Midwest Syndicates series.

Beck and Saylor had been parted for ten years. Saylor caused the separation, instigated by Beck’s uncle. Saylor went to work for the FBI’s Organized Crime Bureau (OCB), which arranged for her to have a fake identity. Beck had searched for her all the time they were separated, but didn’t find her until about six months before their “reunion.” And, in typical Syndicate Master style, that “reunion” was, well, what can I say, Beck is a true Syndicate Master. ‘Nough said.

One thing I am left wondering about is the following exchange Beck had with one of Gutierrez’s goons. (Gutierrez is a man with whom Beck had had business dealings, until Beck learned that Gutierrez intended to turn over the arms to terrorists intent on targeting US cities. Gutierrez was not happy that Beck would no longer supply him with arms and, indeed, had stopped the shipment already on the way to Gutierrez. Thus, the attack on Beck’s compound.)

“You planned your attack better than I thought,” said Beck.
“We had help.”
“Who.”
“Wouldn’t you like to know,” the man with the oily hair and even greasier smile sneered.

Is this a set-up for an overarching mystery in the Midwest Syndicates series? Only time will tell, and I certainly hope that Ms. James solves that mystery in the books to come.

Highly recommend and an undisputed 5+ stars!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

Donna L
5.0 out of 5 stars A SECOND CHANCE ROMANCE
Reviewed in the United States 🇺🇸 on March 5, 2023
What a treat we are in for with this new series by Ms. James. A second chance romance
that she belted out of the park. She has the ability to instill passion and integrity into
her characters even when they live outside of the law.

Saylor and Beck made a perfect couple, or should I say purr- fect. If they could go back
in time and have an honest conversation than the last ten years apart would never have
happened. Even though Saylor did not believe Beck’s uncle’s story about his heritage she
ran. The OCB used Saylor to infiltrate and set Beck up with the intention of bringing down
his organization. What they did was throw her into the Leopard Den where their plan
failed. One kiss was all it took for her to forget her goal. One touch and the walls started
to crumble around her heart. I admired Sayor’s strength. Her commitment. She was sassy,
feisty and always quick with a retort, but she was a bundle of goo in Beck’s arms.

Beck may have been a gangster but one with morals who cared for his people. Oh he was
dangerous and deadly but I loved how he cherished Saylor. He had been actively seeking
her for six months and was ready when she attended his uncle's funeral. It didn't take him long to inform Saylor of his plans. Plans that would see them marry and mate. His enemies tried to burn him down, but they soon found out that the Phoenix would always rise again.

Beck and Saylor’s relationship was complex. They broke the rules meant to keep them apart. Who knew there was honor based in the criminal world? This book was steamy, dark, and delicious in so many ways. I loved it.

Review – Claiming Her Heart (Wild Hearts Book 2)

It was supposed to be a sure thing.

Ronin Gutherie, the dark brooding hero of the international Olympic trial thought talking Devon Cooper into a one night stand would be easy.

At the end of a long day of competition, Devon runs into the hunky Olympic gold medalist. After a major win on the Olympic qualifying circuit, Ronin propositions her and ends up nursing a painful injury as well as his pride.

When the next major Olympic trial is in Ronin’s homeland, he uses the time on the plane to apologize for his behavior and convince Devon that not only is he not the player she believes him to be, but they have a future together.

Can he persuade her to give him a second chance and claim her heart or will she walk away again?

This book was previously published under a different title/author name. It has been re-edited, updated and expanded slightly.

The Reviews

Redrabbitt
VINE VOICE
5.0 out of 5 stars KIWI MEN KNOW HOW TO TREAT THEIR LADIES
Reviewed in the United States 🇺🇸 on February 28, 2023
I enjoyed this second book in the Wild Hearts series which will begin in America but move to New Zealand where the majority of the story takes place. The main story will comprise of Devon Cooper from Texas and Ronin Gutherie, from New Zealand and this will be their hot and heavy, loaded with angst and passionate romance. They both have known each other for years because of the equestrian competitions they both compete in.

Devon Cooper is part of the American team, but not part of the Olympics. She will do a show during the competitions with her horse, Dreamer. She had at one time been romantically involved with one of the assistant coaches on the American team until she caught him cheating. There is an undercurrent of hostility between them still with his snide remarks.

Ronin Gutherie is a favorite contender for the Kiwi eventing team with his horse Dax. While he has a reputation for being a playboy, he has set his sights on Devon, and once he does, he is determined she is going to be his. When her ex-boyfriend, Jake, harasses her, he will set him straight. Ronin’s paternal grandmother is of Māori descent, and her heritage will play a role in his character in this tale.

The plot of the story will include the alpha dominance of Ronin pursuing and eventually dominating Devon. He will stay with her on the flight to New Zealand, and his possessiveness won’t allow her to put up barriers between them. He will help her get her horse in the stable and instead of taking her to her hotel, he will take her to his home. Once he has determined that she is his soulmate, he takes control.

“You keep sassing me Ms. Cooper, and I’ll introduce you to another Kiwi alpha male tradition. The judicious application of a firm hand to your glorious backside. I think we both know you’ll never truly be submissive. I think you’ll submit and follow my lead most of the time, but there will be times I need to remind you which one of us is alpha and that it isn’t you.”

While the story does cover part of the event and competition, it is only a very small part of the story. The chemistry and interaction between the two main characters have this sassy Texan and dominant Kiwi butting heads one minute and intense sex the next. There is plenty of action between the two of them, including multiple spanking scenes, and intense sex scenes.

“I spoke nothing but truth last night. I’ve always known I had a soul mate and when I realized it was you, I started making plans to persuade you of the same. So, you can be the stubborn, Texas cowgirl or you can be my good girl and just give in. As I said, I’ll lead, you’ll follow, and it’ll be easy. But I have no problem making you follow if that’s what it takes.”

“No, sweetheart, it makes me a Kiwi Neanderthal alpha male with a sassy mate who needs to have her bottom spanked to be at her best.”

Note: I previously read the story by this author when it was previously released with a former publisher and under a different pen name. I have been a fan of her books from the beginning—and her writing has astounded me—no matter the name, this is one of my favorite authors. I did not re-read it, but it has been re-edited, updated, and expanded slightly.

Donna L
4.0 out of 5 stars A SPECTACULAR RIDE
Reviewed in the United States 🇺🇸 on February 28, 2023
What a wild ride this book was. I enjoyed learning about the different horse events.
I enjoyed Ronin and Devon’s journey with it's highs and lows. The characters were likable and believable.

Devon and Ronin had a dramatic start to their relationship leaving Ronin in no doubt as to what Devon thought of his boorish behavior. He was lucky she gave him a second chance and the game of cat and mouse ended quickly. The building of their relationship then progressed rapidly. Ronin had his sight set on Devon and was determined to have
 his soul mate by his side even if it took more than one spanking and keeping her happy
 in his bed. He strived for a relationship like his parents who were still going strong after
forty years.

I loved how feisty and sassy Devon was. She proved that she was capable of taking care of
 herself and found peace in submitting to Ronin. Initially, she did not believe in soul mates
 or fairytales but could not deny her body's reaction to Ronin and his hum. She tried to fight
 his hold over her but it ended badly every time.

Combine a spectacular show of dominance by an Alpha male with a unique knack of
 calming his strong-willed feisty mate and sit back and watch the fireworks.

JigsawGirl
4.0 out of 5 stars Was Ronin's Hum Magical?
Reviewed in the United States 🇺🇸 on March 1, 2023
This book turned out to be a surprise for me. Definitely not in a bad way. I was happy to see that Devon was strong, independent, and talented. Her connection with Ronin seemed pretty immediate, but they seemed to have been checking each other out for a while.

Ronin was completely overbearing, but Devon seemed to appreciate his Alphaness. I thought the hum was interesting. I read somewhere that this was one of the author's first books. I could see it as the prelude to a long journey of success.

It did take some effort for me to keep up with all of the horse related information. It turned out to be a teachable moment, lol.

I did finally figure out why I was surprised. There were a couple of reasons. I realized I had gotten used to varying degrees of some type of danger in the later books. This one didn't have that. It was still an entertaining read. It didn't seem like it was softer, or like I was missing that element of danger.

The connection, the romance, the heat level was equally as intense as later books. One thing I was expecting was for Gage to have his own book. The other surprise for me was the epilogue. That content, I was not expecting. All in all, a good fast paced read.
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Review – Croft (Wild Mustang Security Firm)

Delightful! There were several times that I fought to keep the laughter in. I don’t think my husband would have understood it but I loved every minute of it.
The Reluctant Retiree

The last thing a photojournalist with a secret needs is a former Navy SEAL on a mission to find the truth.

When a ransom is demanded for her brother’s life, photojournalist Finlay Reid needs a guide to the rendezvous to make the exchange. What she gets is Wild Mustang Security Firm’s, Billy Crofton.

Croft is hot, ruthless and dominant. Finn tries to keep the former SEAL at bay but finds that something in his heated gaze makes her heart skip a beat.

When he catches Finn in a blatant lie, Croft thinks nothing of introducing the spirited photographer to the consequence of old fashioned discipline. As Croft and Finn wind their way through the Grand Canyon to the exchange point, things become more heated than the Arizona sun.

Croft never expected Finn to push all his buttons; Finn never thought she’d yield to his demands … or respond so wantonly.

But the truth is even more dangerous than either of them realized…

The Reviews

Linda Reads
VINE VOICE
4.0 out of 5 stars “Delta’s stories are filled with erotic encounters of romance and discipline.”
Reviewed in the United States 🇺🇸 on January 12, 2021
Yes, this is an actual quote from the last page of my book. Believe me, Ms. James lives up to that statement. It is not hype! Sensual, explicit, arousing and entertaining are only a few of the ways to describe her books. This book was formerly “Forever Finn” because the most poignant and significant proclamations in the book is “Always and forever, Finn. Always and forever.” Who wouldn’t love a book where the man is over-the-moon in love with his woman? In reality, his treatment of her as a customer could have been abuse and lawsuit-worthy. 🤓 But I LOVED it.
Finlay Reid aka Finn is on a mission to save her brother from kidnappers but needs the assistance of a good tracker to get where she needs to meet them in the Grand Canyon. Enter Billy Crofton aka Croft of the Wild Mustang Security Firm. He senses something more at play here but can’t quite figure it out. Problem is he is attracted to her physically if he can overlook her snark. He, like the rest of the Wild Mustangs is into spanking discipline and she is just too outspoken. But then again, he wants a woman “who is his equal, who is willing to yield to his authority.” Could she? Would she? Whoa…her first spanking and its result. 😜
There is intrigue, spanking and what follows, humor, more spanking and what follows, and an intro to Noah. I want to read Noah…he’s gruff and no-nonsense. I volunteered to review an ARC of this book and it comes highly recommended for readers who enjoy what happens AFTER the spanking. 😉

JigsawGirl
4.0 out of 5 stars Inyriguing
Reviewed in the United States 🇺🇸 on January 12, 2021
This is supposed to be an expanded version of Forever Finn, which I read in 2019. If I am being completely honest, if there is a difference between the two books, I didn't notice it. That being said, I will stick with my review from Forever Finn, which is below.

I don't know if it is Delta James intention, but her books always make me think. I love that her female leads are strong, intelligent, and independent women, and Finn is no different. One thing that is so intriguing is the quandary she has about whether she can submit to Croft, and if there is something wrong if she does.

I also appreciated that Croft and Finn's instalove or Insta connection was acknowledged upfront and discussed by the characters.

This book had its fair share of action, intrigue, and suspense. Any time spent with the team from the Wild Mustang Security firm is going to be fraught with dominant males, strong women, adventure, danger, witty banter, love, friendship, loyalty, and lots of laughs. Don't forget the romance, sometimes intense steamy scenes, and the spankings. If any of these things are offensive to you, take a pass on this book.

One thing that bothered me was the way the Christopher and Finn situation was resolved. I really thought there would be more. I am never opposed to an epilogue.

I voluntarily read and reviewed the Advanced Reader Copy of this book.

Ljm7224
4.0 out of 5 stars Never lie to an ex Navy Seal!
Reviewed in the United States 🇺🇸 on January 13, 2021
This second book in the series has Finn hiring the Mustang Security Firm to help find her "lost" brother, who isn't really lost, but has actually been kidnapped and needs to be rescued. Croft, an ex Navy Seal,is assigned to help her out and is not very pleased when he finds out he has been lied to. This leads to Finn's first lesson in what happens when Croft is deceived or his instructions are ignored. But of course, Finn, being the independent, stubborn woman that she is, is undetoured and continues with her reckless and defiant ways, leading to many punishments for her and many adventures and problems for both of them, as well as steamy romance, because this is after all a Delta James book.This book can stand alone, but as in all of Delta's series, characters from the previous book are included, so reading them in order will definitely heighten your enjoyment.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book.

Review – Savage Mate: Mystic River Shifters Book 2

The first time she saw him he was coming out of the river… Oh! what a view.

Jackson Miller (Jax) left the SEALs to return to his small hometown, Mystic River, Alaska where all the residents are shifters. He’s a grumpy bear shifter and the sheriff.

Autumn Bradley was hiking with her fiancé for a birthday weekend. When he decides Alaska is a bit too rustic for his tastes, he leaves Autumn behind to hike out by herself. Unknowingly taking the sat phone, compass and GPS with him, leaving Autumn without directional assistance in the path of a snowstorm.

Once the rangers discover one of the hikers has failed to return to the base camp. They call in the best tracker they know… Jax. He is not exactly happy to go out in the bad weather to track down the irresponsible woman. Learning she is his fated mate was rather shocking.

Even if they make it out of the storm will she ever be accepted in his small town of shifters?

Come visit Mystic River, Alaska a small, remote town that has always been a safe community for different types of shifters. These shifters are gorgeous, possessive and finding their fated mate is high on their priority list.

Take a walk on the wild side with these curvy heroines, their sexy fated mates and scenes that sizzle.

The Reviews

Kathy Heare Watts
February 20, 2023
FIND SOLACE IN HIS EMBRACE

The story is part of the new Mystic River Shifters. It will have a great cast of characters, including humans and shifters. The two main characters will be Dr. Autumn Bradley, a veterinarian from Seattle, and Sheriff Jackson ‘Jax’ Miller of the town of Mystic River on Kodiak Island, Alaska.

The story’s plot will have Autumn and her fiancé, Porter Martin, III, on Kodiak Island to celebrate Autumn’s birthday. They will have a falling out, and she realizes that he isn’t the man for her. She will give him back his ring and take off on one of the trails, and Porter will leave the island. It isn’t until he is contacted by the rangers from the National Forest Service that they realize he has abandoned Autumn and she is missing. They will contact Jax, one of the best trackers, to find her—especially with a storm system approaching.

Kodiak Island, Alaska is home to all kinds of shifters, one of which is Jax, a Kodiak bear; his deputy, Kyra, is a lynx; and his friend, Ash, a park ranger, a wolf shifter. Ash will contact Jax to search for Autumn.

“I’d best start looking for our little runaway.”

The story has mystery, suspense, danger, and a lone Kodiak bear realizing this little human is his fated mate. He will protect her from a dangerous predatory, spank her for her behavior, gets her to his cave, and keep her safe.

Jax: I told you to stay put on the boat. That’s the last time you disobey me without any consequences. I meant what I said; if you’d gone into the water, I’m not sure you would have survived. Got it?
Autumn: I understand English, Sheriff. But last time I checked, you had no authority over me. None.
Jax: I wouldn’t bet on that. That snowstorm is going to be nasty. They are predicting whiteout conditions for the next couple of days. That means you’re stuck with me in my cave.
Autumn: I won’t be any trouble.
Jax: You couldn’t be more wrong about that if you tried. You’re all kinds of trouble, Doc. Fortunately for you, I like trouble. In fact, you’re the kind of trouble I’ve been looking for.

The Scoundrel: Club Southside Book 1

He was hired to protect her.

Samantha
Someone doesn’t like what I write. That’s okay, erotic romance isn’t for everyone, but I like it and it pays the bills. First, there were private messages on social media, followed by emails—both full of vitriol and venom. Coming home after a day out in London, I knew someone had been in my home. I got on the first flight out of London and landed in Chicago.

Kingston
A mercenary with a dark history. I thought I’d never see the light of day again until Robert Fitzwallace walked through the door and dragged me out. After two years of healing, Fitz recruited me to head up the operations for the new Cerberus Group in Chicago. Like our counterpart in London, headquarters are located over a lifestyle club—the Windy City’s newest and best…Club Southside.