Red Flash

Gem Provenance Legacy #1

by Kiva Wolfe, Rita Hanner-Ward

In the conflicted worlds of gemstones and diamonds, no one is who they seem to be... When a dashing former triathlete learns the Russian Mafia killed his nephew, he stumbles upon a gem smuggling scheme involving his older brother, the Red Mafia, and a powerful Brazilian organization. From Denver's historic Capitol Hill to the far reaches of the Amazon, mayhem and double-crosses abound in this smart, sexy and suspenseful adventure about an immigrant-American family's lust for gems and the deadly appearance of a fabled diamond. Murder, obsession, betrayal, and a missing shipment of rare tourmalines will rip a family's fragile bond and push two brothers to the edge. Everyone wants to steal these valuable gemstones--some who will kill doing it, and some who will die trying.

284 pages, Paperback

First published November 1, 2005

About the author

Author also writes as Rita Hanner-Ward

Reviews

[Amelia Grace · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story balances intensity and reflection with great care. The emotional depth feels genuine, never forced. Reading it was deeply satisfying.

[Casey Avery · Rating 3 out of 5]

The narrative flows smoothly and keeps you emotionally connected. The tone is consistent and impactful. This book stayed with me.

[Nina Williams · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book blends emotion and tension in a way that feels authentic. The themes are handled with care and confidence. I genuinely enjoyed reading it.

[Edward George · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book leaves a strong emotional echo long after you finish reading. The storytelling feels deliberate and immersive. A truly compelling experience.

[Ava Millie · Rating 4 out of 5]

The author creates a powerful mood that carries the story forward beautifully. Every chapter feels purposeful. It was an engaging and rewarding read.

[James Edward · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book has a strong heartbeat dark, compelling, and beautifully written. The characters feel real, and the tone stays with you. Reading it was truly impactful.

[Joshua Ryan · Rating 3 out of 5]

A gripping narrative that explores strength, vulnerability, and resilience. The storytelling flows naturally and keeps you engaged. An excellent reading experience.

[James Harry · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book pulls you in with its intensity and emotional depth. The atmosphere lingers long after each chapter ends. Reading it felt immersive and unforgettable.

[Laura Willy · Rating 4 out of 5]

The writing is vivid, confident, and emotionally charged. The themes are layered and thought-provoking. I found myself fully absorbed from start to finish.

[Lwanda Allis · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book keeps you engaged through strong writing and meaningful themes. The tone is consistent and compelling. Reading it felt both intense and rewarding.

[John Smith · Rating 3 out of 5]

A story that draws you in through mood, character, and emotional weight. The writing flows effortlessly. I truly enjoyed reading this book.

[Harry Brooks · Rating 4 out of 5]

The narrative is powerful without being overwhelming. Every chapter adds something meaningful. Reading it was an engaging and impactful experience.

[Emilly Luis · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book has a quiet intensity that builds naturally. The themes resonate deeply without being overstated. A captivating and thoughtful read.

[Alfie Noah · Rating 3 out of 5]

From the first pages, the atmosphere is striking and engaging. The story unfolds with confidence and depth. I found the reading experience deeply satisfying.

[Herry Brook · Rating 4 out of 5]

The author delivers a story that feels grounded yet dramatic. The emotional layers are handled with nuance. It was a memorable and immersive read.

[Daniel-Allis · Rating 4 out of 5]

The storytelling is rich and immersive, with a tone that draws you in immediately. It holds your attention and doesn’t let go. A very strong read.

[milly refrers · Rating 5 out of 5]

I recently picked up Red Flash by Kiva Wolfe and was immediately impressed. The writing is immersive, confident, and polished. Every chapter feels carefully structured, and the pacing keeps you hooked without feeling rushed. I loved how Wolfe balances tension with subtle character development. This book feels both entertaining and meaningful, and it stayed with me long after I finished reading. A truly amazing read and highly recommended for those who enjoy thoughtful, well-crafted novels.

[Paul · Rating 4 out of 5]

Dominick Stanovic is a handsome former triathlete who is part of the family gem business in present-day Colorado. He learns that his young nephew was killed by the Russian Mafia, and stumbles upon a smuggling operation involving his family, the Russians and the Brazilian Mafia.

Older brother Serg Stanovic is head of the family gem business, built with help from the Russian Mafia. The insurance company is asking unpleasant questions, which makes the Russians nervous. If the growing tension between Serg, and their mother, Berta, and her pet ocelot, isn’t bad enough (the phrase "gasoline plus lit match" comes to mind), an extra complication to Dominick’s life is Mala Cole, Serg’s woman. She is a Brazilian beauty in her early 20s, and Dominick has fallen for her, very hard. Mala has a past of her own, unbeknownst to the Stanovic family, a past which involves never going back to Brazil, because she killed an Important Person.

A shipment of very rare Brazilian colored diamonds has gone missing, so Dominick convinces Serg that he (Dominick) should go to the Brazilian Amazon to straighten things out. Maybe this will convince Serg that Dominick should be given more responsibility in the family business. Serg doesn’t suggest or ask that Mala go with him as translator, Serg tells Mala to go with him as translator. Mala thinks that if she got her hands on the diamonds, it would go a long way toward smoothing things over with the people in Brazil who want her dead.

This is an excellent thriller. It has all the required elements: international intrigue, murder, sex, the Mafia, obsession, betrayal and large amounts of money. It would also make a really good movie. This is well worth reading.

[Justin Benjamin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved Red Flash because it gave me everything I want in a romance novel, passion, heartbreak, and forbidden love. The chemistry between Dominick and Mala felt intense and emotional from the beginning. Their relationship had so many obstacles, which made their love story even more powerful. I found myself rooting for them the entire time. It’s a beautiful romance mixed with suspense.

[Jerry · Rating 5 out of 5]

As someone who enjoys suspenseful books, Red Flash kept me hooked with all its mystery and danger. The criminal plots, stolen gems, and betrayals added constant excitement to the story. I liked that the book never felt predictable because every chapter had a new twist. The action scenes were thrilling and dramatic. It’s a great mix of romance and thriller.

[Leo · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a very entertaining and enjoyable read for me. It had romance, suspense, drama, and enough twists to keep things interesting the whole way through. The writing style was easy to follow, and the pacing stayed strong. I finished it faster than expected because I didn’t want to stop. Definitely a fun read.

[Juan Alan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Red Flash impressed me with its layered storytelling and emotional depth. The author created complex characters who each carried their own flaws and pain. I appreciated that the book wasn’t just romance it also explored family, betrayal, and redemption. The plot was dramatic but meaningful. Overall, it was very well written and engaging.

[Jeffrey · Rating 4 out of 5]

What I enjoyed most about this book was the adventurous atmosphere. The scenes in Brazil and the dangerous treasure hunting journey made the story feel cinematic. I loved the jungle settings and survival elements added into the romance. It made the plot more exciting than a normal love story. It felt like an emotional adventure movie in book form.

[Ethan · Rating 5 out of 5]

The strongest part of Red Flash is definitely its characters. Dominick felt honorable and caring, while Mala was vulnerable but strong in her own way. Even Sërg was written with enough complexity that I understood his emotions despite his flaws. Each character felt realistic and deeply human. Their relationships made the story unforgettable.

[MB · Rating 4 out of 5]

I wasn’t quite sure what to expect from this book but I absolutely loved it!! Gripping family developments throughout the entire book! Now the hardest part will be to wait for Book 2 of this series.
Thank you to a Goodreads author giveaway I was able to read and provide my personal perspective of this book. Thank you!

[Amelia Lucas · Rating 4 out of 5]

The author builds intensity gradually, allowing the story to breathe. The emotional moments feel earned. A compelling and thoughtful read.

[Jonathan Salmon · Rating 4 out of 5]

A gripping and emotionally resonant book that maintains its tone throughout. The writing is smooth and intentional. I enjoyed every chapter.

[Mr.Brown · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story delivers depth without excess. The balance between emotion and storytelling is well done. A strong and engaging read.

[Billy Bells · Rating 4 out of 5]

An immersive novel that leaves a lasting impression through its atmosphere and emotional weight. The writing feels refined and assured. A truly enjoyable experience.

[Olivia · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book offers depth without overwhelming the reader. The emotional balance is well executed, resulting in a strong and enjoyable novel.