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Llyn Lakes #1
The Clearing
Piper is new to town and starting over alone. A terrifying encounter in the woods one day sends her stumbling into the care of a brooding stranger. Now, in an effort to protect her from uncertain danger they’re thrown into close quarters and spending all their time together. As their bond grows Aidan reveals the shocking connection between what she witnessed in the clearing and his tragic past. He’s been punishing himself for too long and Piper’s ready to help him finally move on. Aidan has demons that he's unwilling to face, but he’s determined not to let history repeat itself. He just needs to keep things with Piper distant … professional. Though he tries to fight it, the connection between them is overwhelming. Being around her has those carefully constructed walls of his coming down and his willpower waning, but is he really ready to let her in? One thing's for certain, he'll do anything to keep her safe.
*Interconnected series but can be read as a standalone*
*Interconnected series but can be read as a standalone*
- GenresRomance
296 pages, Paperback
First published January 27, 2023
About the author
Marron Kaye
8 books15 followersMarron Kaye wrote her first novel at the age of forty, proving that it’s never too late to chase your dreams. A long-time lover of soap operas and romantic fiction, she credits her grandmother with introducing her to the genre. She lives in Toronto, Canada, with her dog Rowan and her turtle Franklin. The geography of Llyn Lakes, her debut series, is inspired by a town near her family’s cottage—a place she lovingly calls her forever happy place.
To find out more, visit marronkaye.com or follow @marronkaye_author on Instagram.
To find out more, visit marronkaye.com or follow @marronkaye_author on Instagram.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
February 28, 2023
From the first page, the author’s words pulled me in and paint the beautiful woods as the setting of the book.
Piper the local librarian and nature photographer witnesses a crime in the serene woods. As she runs to escape the from the scene, she finds a cabin. Looking for safety she finds Aiden, a detective who is on leave after losing his partner.
Throughout the story Aiden and Piper work together to help solve the crime and heal from past hurts.
This is an easy read with a HEA.
Spice: 🔥
Thank you Voracious Readers Only for the advance copy!
Piper the local librarian and nature photographer witnesses a crime in the serene woods. As she runs to escape the from the scene, she finds a cabin. Looking for safety she finds Aiden, a detective who is on leave after losing his partner.
Throughout the story Aiden and Piper work together to help solve the crime and heal from past hurts.
This is an easy read with a HEA.
Spice: 🔥
Thank you Voracious Readers Only for the advance copy!
February 24, 2023
This is a forced proximity, small-town, bodyguard, fake dating romance. I love all those tropes but this story just didn’t quite hit the mark for me. I like the story and the premise going into it.
The beginning started out a little rough for me. I loved that it started out with a bang placing the FMC in the middle of the action. But that action was interrupted by her trip down memory lane outlining how she came to be in that exact moment. I would have liked the action to build and then after the fact have her reflect on her present situation. After that, there just little things that tripped me up along the way. For example, the FMC mentions being a loner and that she doesn’t have any friends…but then it’s revealed that she’s best friends with the gal the owns the coffee shop and she’s close to a coworker. I was a little confused and thought maybe I missed something. But the MC asks her about friends and she said she didn’t have any. That could be completely nitpicky on my part but that bothered me.
It did have some suspense and overall it was a decent read with the elements you’d expect in a contemporary romance. I did love Aiden and his vulnerability. He did tug on my heart strings. I’m a sucker for a wounded hero.
The beginning started out a little rough for me. I loved that it started out with a bang placing the FMC in the middle of the action. But that action was interrupted by her trip down memory lane outlining how she came to be in that exact moment. I would have liked the action to build and then after the fact have her reflect on her present situation. After that, there just little things that tripped me up along the way. For example, the FMC mentions being a loner and that she doesn’t have any friends…but then it’s revealed that she’s best friends with the gal the owns the coffee shop and she’s close to a coworker. I was a little confused and thought maybe I missed something. But the MC asks her about friends and she said she didn’t have any. That could be completely nitpicky on my part but that bothered me.
It did have some suspense and overall it was a decent read with the elements you’d expect in a contemporary romance. I did love Aiden and his vulnerability. He did tug on my heart strings. I’m a sucker for a wounded hero.
February 22, 2023
Alright don't come for me on my star rating. I can explain.
Let me first start off with the things I loved - I loved the plot. Girl comes across something she shouldn't see. Runs into hot man (with lots of trauma) who tries to protect her. Love blooms but of course what she witnesses & his past are connected. It's a yes for me. I felt like I got the story line that the synopsis promised. Was not mad at that.
However, I felt like the book could have been longer. The MMC had some good development going on because his past tied heavily to the plot. I would have loved to get more from the FMC. She just wasn't my favorite. I also felt the duo gave off insta-love vibes. They don't become an item immediately but the internal dialogue was kind of love at first sight, which I don't really enjoy.
The writing was fine, I read it all the way through in a few hours, the plot was interesting and kept me entertained. I enjoyed the smut. So I feel like all and all it was an ok book, I just didn't love it like I wanted to.
Let me first start off with the things I loved - I loved the plot. Girl comes across something she shouldn't see. Runs into hot man (with lots of trauma) who tries to protect her. Love blooms but of course what she witnesses & his past are connected. It's a yes for me. I felt like I got the story line that the synopsis promised. Was not mad at that.
However, I felt like the book could have been longer. The MMC had some good development going on because his past tied heavily to the plot. I would have loved to get more from the FMC. She just wasn't my favorite. I also felt the duo gave off insta-love vibes. They don't become an item immediately but the internal dialogue was kind of love at first sight, which I don't really enjoy.
The writing was fine, I read it all the way through in a few hours, the plot was interesting and kept me entertained. I enjoyed the smut. So I feel like all and all it was an ok book, I just didn't love it like I wanted to.
February 28, 2023
* I received a free copy of this book from Voracious Readers Only *
A great, romantic read! (Some spoilers ahead!)
I thought this was a great happy ending read. The chemistry between the two main characters is hot hot hot, and I liked seeing how they pushed past insecurities throughout the story. The only thing I wanted was for the ending to be drawn out a little more. I could tell this was more focused on the love story than the plot, which I usually don’t mind, but the scene where Piper gets saved goes by so fast! Other than that though, I loved it!
A great, romantic read! (Some spoilers ahead!)
I thought this was a great happy ending read. The chemistry between the two main characters is hot hot hot, and I liked seeing how they pushed past insecurities throughout the story. The only thing I wanted was for the ending to be drawn out a little more. I could tell this was more focused on the love story than the plot, which I usually don’t mind, but the scene where Piper gets saved goes by so fast! Other than that though, I loved it!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 15, 2024
The Clearing by Marron Kaye is so not what I expected but actually much more. I loved that we have a woman like Piper, librarian by day and a fighter at night in a way we never saw coming. Running for her life should be number one thing to worry yet one thing about Piper is she is determined to live her life. Then we have a man like Aiden who is good at hiding not just from his past but keeping his heart safe. We see Aidan who he used to be and the shell of a man he has become because of a mistake he did. I loved that we see the pain he still is but one thing about Piper is there's no way to ignore her sunny personality. What gets me is how relatable Piper is to any woman just wanting to be loved and experiencing it the first time. A man like Aidan to some people might seem a lot but in many ways these two are learning from each other. Piper is determined to live normal and not in fear and Aiden is remembering how to live in the present not the past. All in this is a book you don't want to miss a slow start but dang Marron Kaye sure knows how to keep you so into the book. Loved it.
"I received an eBook copy from the publisher for the purpose of an honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own."
"I received an eBook copy from the publisher for the purpose of an honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own."
October 7, 2025
Swoon alert! If you're gonna read this book then get ready to fall head over heels for the magnetic, suspenseful and soul-shattering world of Marron Kaye. This book is a masterpiece in slow-burn tension, featuring a male lead who's so devastatingly tormented you’ll want to climb into the pages and personally stitch his broken heart back together!
The book begin with Piper, a new librarian in town trying to make a fresh start & lead a peaceful, typical life. She is generous and kind but her peaceful life is abruptly turned upside down when she literally finds herself in the path of a tall stranger, Aidan after a genuinely terrifying encounter in the woods. He is tormented by guilt and regret who is trying to hide his terrible past. Being the dark and broody alpha, he is immediately determined to keep Piper at a distance, for her own protection, of course. He wants their relationship to be professional but as soon as they are in close proximity, their chemistry practically pops! It is an emotional, addictive and deeply satisfying read. If you crave intense chemistry, a swoon-worthy hero with a dark secret and a story that truly makes you root for the characters to find their happy ending, you absolutely must grab this book today!
The book begin with Piper, a new librarian in town trying to make a fresh start & lead a peaceful, typical life. She is generous and kind but her peaceful life is abruptly turned upside down when she literally finds herself in the path of a tall stranger, Aidan after a genuinely terrifying encounter in the woods. He is tormented by guilt and regret who is trying to hide his terrible past. Being the dark and broody alpha, he is immediately determined to keep Piper at a distance, for her own protection, of course. He wants their relationship to be professional but as soon as they are in close proximity, their chemistry practically pops! It is an emotional, addictive and deeply satisfying read. If you crave intense chemistry, a swoon-worthy hero with a dark secret and a story that truly makes you root for the characters to find their happy ending, you absolutely must grab this book today!
February 24, 2023
The Clearing by Marron Kaye, is a contemporary romantic suspense novel set in a small lake town. It centers around Piper, the town’s new librarian, and Aiden, a handsome, brooding former detective who lives alone in the woods. When Piper stumbles upon a terrifying mystery while on a nature hike, she finds herself in Aiden’s path and then under his protection.
I really loved the writing and plot of this novel. It moves quickly, and will keep you engaged and turning the page all the way to the end. It is romance centered, and the chemistry between the two main characters is electrifying. The suspense aspect of the book weaves seamlessly in with Piper and Aiden’s story, adding twists and turns to the plot that will have you saying, “Just one more chapter.”
The dual point of view is also flawless. I had no problem hearing the difference between Piper’s voice and Aiden’s, and I absolutely loved getting the story from both their perspectives.
Piper and Aiden are both extremely likable and endearing characters, and together they are magic on the page. Piper is kind and big hearted, and I absolutely loved how well developed her backstory and found family were in this book. Aiden is a little bit of the stereotype of the tall, dark, and brooding alpha male, but I adored him. He is the perfect romantic lead for Piper.
*WARNING MINOR SPOILER AHEAD*
If I had any complaints with this book it was Aiden’s midpoint regression when he inevitably pushed Piper away. While she had been talking about his walls still being up and how he was holding back, he didn’t show any signs of doing that in their on page interactions. So, it almost seemed like Piper’s fears manifested it, instead of it being a natural part of the story.
Overall I gave this book a solid 4 out 5 stars. I truly enjoyed it and I read it in less than twenty four hours because I couldn’t put it down. For spice, it’s definitely a 3 out 5 and I would recommend it for mature readers.
I really loved the writing and plot of this novel. It moves quickly, and will keep you engaged and turning the page all the way to the end. It is romance centered, and the chemistry between the two main characters is electrifying. The suspense aspect of the book weaves seamlessly in with Piper and Aiden’s story, adding twists and turns to the plot that will have you saying, “Just one more chapter.”
The dual point of view is also flawless. I had no problem hearing the difference between Piper’s voice and Aiden’s, and I absolutely loved getting the story from both their perspectives.
Piper and Aiden are both extremely likable and endearing characters, and together they are magic on the page. Piper is kind and big hearted, and I absolutely loved how well developed her backstory and found family were in this book. Aiden is a little bit of the stereotype of the tall, dark, and brooding alpha male, but I adored him. He is the perfect romantic lead for Piper.
*WARNING MINOR SPOILER AHEAD*
If I had any complaints with this book it was Aiden’s midpoint regression when he inevitably pushed Piper away. While she had been talking about his walls still being up and how he was holding back, he didn’t show any signs of doing that in their on page interactions. So, it almost seemed like Piper’s fears manifested it, instead of it being a natural part of the story.
Overall I gave this book a solid 4 out 5 stars. I truly enjoyed it and I read it in less than twenty four hours because I couldn’t put it down. For spice, it’s definitely a 3 out 5 and I would recommend it for mature readers.
March 4, 2023
The Clearing by Marron KayeFrom the first page, the author’s words pulled me in and paint the beautiful woods as the setting of the book.
Piper the local librarian and nature photographer witnesses a crime in the serene woods. As she runs to escape the from the scene, she finds a cabin. Looking for safety she finds Aiden, a detective who is on leave after losing his partner.
Throughout the story Aiden and Piper work together to help solve the crime and heal from past hurts.
This is an easy read with a HEA.
Spice: 🔥
Thank you Voracious Readers Only for the advance copy!
View all my reviews
December 4, 2025
So, I wasn't the biggest fan of this book but let me start with the things I did enjoy.
The atmosphere and plot separate to the romance I thought were well done. I feel the writer did an excellent job of describing and setting the scene allow me to vividly picture what she was describing. I also really enjoyed how she weaved parts of the backstory through the low points of the current story leaving me feeling that the plot was moving even when weeks were going by with the main characters being locked in a holding pattern waiting for the bad guys to make a move.
As for what I did not like, was the romance, it felt forced and very much in the realms of insta love, which I can appreciate except of how we were introduced to the MMC pining away after his lost partner and then suddenly bam he's changed everything cause the FMC appears at his cabin. I found it very hard to root for the couple and found myself skipping large chucks of romance talk and sex scenes to get back to the suspense plot line.
Overall using CAWPILE I rated the book 6/10
C(6) A(8) W(6) P(8) I(4) L(6) E(4)
I was provided this book in return for an honest review.
The atmosphere and plot separate to the romance I thought were well done. I feel the writer did an excellent job of describing and setting the scene allow me to vividly picture what she was describing. I also really enjoyed how she weaved parts of the backstory through the low points of the current story leaving me feeling that the plot was moving even when weeks were going by with the main characters being locked in a holding pattern waiting for the bad guys to make a move.
As for what I did not like, was the romance, it felt forced and very much in the realms of insta love, which I can appreciate except of how we were introduced to the MMC pining away after his lost partner and then suddenly bam he's changed everything cause the FMC appears at his cabin. I found it very hard to root for the couple and found myself skipping large chucks of romance talk and sex scenes to get back to the suspense plot line.
Overall using CAWPILE I rated the book 6/10
C(6) A(8) W(6) P(8) I(4) L(6) E(4)
I was provided this book in return for an honest review.
February 23, 2023
From the very first page, I was interested in how everything would end and how the relationship between the main characters would develop. This story is a hot but slow-burning romance between Piper and Aidan. It was good, also I really like the cover, it calms and relates well to the text of the book. The mystery/suspense, which stretches like a thin, elegant thread, is very intriguing throughout the book. I always want to know the main secret as soon as possible. In such stories, it is very important to keep the reader's attention until the end and not reveal the main trump card of the story the end, the author managed to do this. The author also showed well the moral state of the main characters, what they have gone through, and what remains to be experienced. The main characters go through psychological difficulties and growing up as individuals, and they help each other in difficult moments
April 23, 2023
The Clearing is a great contemporary romantic suspense read. It's dual POV which I felt worked well here. The story carries you along at a clipping pace - it doesn't really have any slow patches or lose momentum at any point.
I felt that the main characters were both likeable and easy to get behind, Aidan maybe a little more that Piper as he seemed to have stronger, slightly better fleshed out character.
I did feel that this book could have benefited from being a little longer. Some of the action and disclosures seem to happen a little abruptly and I think would have benefitted from being able to be teased out or explained in a little more depth. Having said that, I think the author has done a great job with the 120 pages here and I really liked her writing style. This was an easy read and flowed beautifully.
I received a free copy of The Clearing from Voracious Readers Only in return for an honest review. Marron Kaye was a new author for me, but would definitely recommend.
I felt that the main characters were both likeable and easy to get behind, Aidan maybe a little more that Piper as he seemed to have stronger, slightly better fleshed out character.
I did feel that this book could have benefited from being a little longer. Some of the action and disclosures seem to happen a little abruptly and I think would have benefitted from being able to be teased out or explained in a little more depth. Having said that, I think the author has done a great job with the 120 pages here and I really liked her writing style. This was an easy read and flowed beautifully.
I received a free copy of The Clearing from Voracious Readers Only in return for an honest review. Marron Kaye was a new author for me, but would definitely recommend.
August 31, 2023
The book showcases a passionate love story that simmered with heat when two strangers, a cop & librarian inadvertently bumped into each other. When Piper encountered a criminal and dead body in the clearing, she accidentally came across her soulmate and life partner, Aidan.
The writer used an effective tool, a simple workable plot that blended romance with just the right measure of suspense to keep the reader's interest intact. The storyline flowed smoothly. As it progressed towards the climax, the author punctuated the development of events-Aidan and Piper's mutual attraction and Aidan's role as Piper's bodyguard with a HEA (happily ever after) ending which was unapologetically justifiable.
This novel which upholds an ideal formula and literary equilibrium of adventure and sexual tension & intimacy between lovers will certainly be remembered and appreciated by fans of this genre for its steamy love scenes and viable action scenarios.
The writer used an effective tool, a simple workable plot that blended romance with just the right measure of suspense to keep the reader's interest intact. The storyline flowed smoothly. As it progressed towards the climax, the author punctuated the development of events-Aidan and Piper's mutual attraction and Aidan's role as Piper's bodyguard with a HEA (happily ever after) ending which was unapologetically justifiable.
This novel which upholds an ideal formula and literary equilibrium of adventure and sexual tension & intimacy between lovers will certainly be remembered and appreciated by fans of this genre for its steamy love scenes and viable action scenarios.
July 18, 2023
Piper, small town librarian, loves her hobby of wildlife photography but one day while out indulging in her hobby, she sees something she shouldn't and runs away in fear, thankfully managing to escape being shot at. However, she realises, after being rescued and reporting the incident to the police, that she could still be in danger. Aiden, who has taken time off due to personal problems, finds himself a self-appointed bodyguard for Piper, and their attraction to each other is undeniable.
Piper and Aidan have several obstacles in the way of their "happily ever after" - will they both be able to overcome these?
This book is an adventure and romance rolled into one and an enjoyable read for fans of this genre.
Thanks to the author, Marron Kaye, and "Voracious Readers" for giving me the opportunity to read a free copy of this book.
Piper and Aidan have several obstacles in the way of their "happily ever after" - will they both be able to overcome these?
This book is an adventure and romance rolled into one and an enjoyable read for fans of this genre.
Thanks to the author, Marron Kaye, and "Voracious Readers" for giving me the opportunity to read a free copy of this book.
February 24, 2023
Review for the clearing
There were many elements I enjoyed about the clearing. It had the perfect balance between small town romance and a bit of a murder mystery suspenseful feel to it. Although its focus was on the relationship between Piper and Aidan, it was nice to have a bit of suspense sprinkled in too. The story had a rotating narrative between the two main characters which I always enjoy as you can gain more from the story through different perspectives. The story has a fast paced plot which keeps things interesting and the author has a great way with describing character traits and backdrops in the story. Overall definitely recommended if you are into romance stories with a touch of suspense.
There were many elements I enjoyed about the clearing. It had the perfect balance between small town romance and a bit of a murder mystery suspenseful feel to it. Although its focus was on the relationship between Piper and Aidan, it was nice to have a bit of suspense sprinkled in too. The story had a rotating narrative between the two main characters which I always enjoy as you can gain more from the story through different perspectives. The story has a fast paced plot which keeps things interesting and the author has a great way with describing character traits and backdrops in the story. Overall definitely recommended if you are into romance stories with a touch of suspense.
February 20, 2023
I love a good romantic suspense, and The Clearing is just that. And it starts off fast. I was a little worried the book would drag since it starts off with such an intense scene, but I was wrong. You find out bits and pieces throughout the book, and add in some tension, spice, and strong friendships, and the book is a page turner.
And I loved getting glimpses, well at least I think that's what they are, into the next books in the series. Plus some things started to click into place about one of Piper's friends and the guy who abandoned her and her kids. I can't wait to see how that plays out in future books considering how everyone is connected.
And I loved getting glimpses, well at least I think that's what they are, into the next books in the series. Plus some things started to click into place about one of Piper's friends and the guy who abandoned her and her kids. I can't wait to see how that plays out in future books considering how everyone is connected.
February 25, 2023
The Clearing Review
Piper, the new introverted librarian is in deep trouble after witnessing a potential body dumping while out in the woods. After she realizes the potential danger she’s in, she bumps into Aidan, one of the towns hot detectives that’s been taking time off due to a recent tragedy to his partner and secret love of his life.
Once they meet the attraction is instantaneous, and before he’s able to really commit to Piper, she of course needs to face death before he comes to her rescue.
The read is easy and romance smut is something I love to read after the real heavy stuff I’ve been into lately. The sex scenes are steamy and the characters are easy to love.
Piper, the new introverted librarian is in deep trouble after witnessing a potential body dumping while out in the woods. After she realizes the potential danger she’s in, she bumps into Aidan, one of the towns hot detectives that’s been taking time off due to a recent tragedy to his partner and secret love of his life.
Once they meet the attraction is instantaneous, and before he’s able to really commit to Piper, she of course needs to face death before he comes to her rescue.
The read is easy and romance smut is something I love to read after the real heavy stuff I’ve been into lately. The sex scenes are steamy and the characters are easy to love.
March 19, 2023
"The Clearing" is Marron Kaye’s first novel and does not disappoint! A small town romance with a dash of mystery and suspense that keeps you hooked from the very beginning. The love between the two main characters Aidan and Piper is palpable and endearing. Getting to experience it from their different perspectives and to feel their connection towards each other grow is a bonus and adds a whole other layer to the love story. A bit of mystery weaved throughout adds extra thrill and intrigue. Exciting from start to finish, this book is a real page-turner that will have you craving more. Cannot wait for the next story in the Llyn Lakes Series!
March 23, 2023
I was drawn into this book from the moment I started reading it. Piper is the new Librarian in town and enjoys photographing wildlife on her walks in the forest. She runs into trouble, where she is a witness to someone trying to bury a body. Fear takes over and she runs through the forest till she stops at a cabin in the woods. She is taken into town to the police station and is under watch from Aidan and ex cop who is staying with her to make sure she stays safe.
This story had great suspense and romance mixed within it. It kept me on my toes wanting to keep reading to find out what happens next.
This story had great suspense and romance mixed within it. It kept me on my toes wanting to keep reading to find out what happens next.
August 6, 2023
Piper is out taking photos when she witnesses a crime. In her desperation to get away, she encounters Aiden. Aiden has been living in a self-imposed isolation after the death of his police partner, for which he feels responsible. Aiden appoints himself as Piper's bodyguard. The forced proximity leads to some strong chemistry between the two. But Aiden doesn't feel he deserves Piper. Will he forgive himself and allow Piper in before it's too late?
I enjoyed this book and look forward to more in this series.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I enjoyed this book and look forward to more in this series.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
December 5, 2023
This is a solid contemporary romance with all the usual ups and downs that come with it. The fiery passion, the miscommunication, the suspense...oh wait, did I forget to mention that someone is trying to kill our FMC? Also, she’s a librarian and really, I couldn’t help but be all about that. Open door spice (plenty of it) with a little bit of a slow burn. A broken, damaged MMC filled with guilt and remorse. These two were made to heal each other. It’s a fast read with short chapters, light-hearted and low-stakes. Perfect for this time of year.
January 16, 2024
The Clearing has a good storyline and pace throughout. The balance between romance and storyline is well thought out and works well.
It was an easy read with characters who have a good dynamic between them who you feel like you know. The chapters are broken up into the main characters point of view so you really feel their thoughts and feelings. At points you think you know how the plot will turn out but I was wrong and just wanted to keep reading.
I received a complimentary copy of the book from via Voracious Readers Only for a honest review.
It was an easy read with characters who have a good dynamic between them who you feel like you know. The chapters are broken up into the main characters point of view so you really feel their thoughts and feelings. At points you think you know how the plot will turn out but I was wrong and just wanted to keep reading.
I received a complimentary copy of the book from via Voracious Readers Only for a honest review.
February 25, 2024
I was pulled in from the start! Of course there's drama and danger at the beginning, so that helped. But amidst the drama is well-placed humor. Not to mention the fake dating, small town, and bodyguard tropes, all with a hot cop. (Who doesn't love a man in uniform??)
The story kept me entertained, laughing, in suspense, and swooning. I could go for my own Aidan, please and thank you.
Thanks to Voracious Readers Only and the author for a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review! I'm leaving this review voluntarily.
The story kept me entertained, laughing, in suspense, and swooning. I could go for my own Aidan, please and thank you.
Thanks to Voracious Readers Only and the author for a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review! I'm leaving this review voluntarily.
February 19, 2023
Even though I really enjoyed the book, there was the suspense and mystery aspect of the book that fell short for me. The book had a lot of potential, because there is so much to the backstory of Aiden, and of piper, but besides that, I loved their chemistry, and I loved how piper is a librarian, and her amazing friends. I can’t wait to read more from this author I need book 2, I know it’s going to get better.
February 21, 2023
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A phenomenal romantic suspense novel. This book hits the ground running in the first chapter and I was absolutely hooked. This book features enemies to lovers, forced proximity and some small town romance. The FMC is so sweet and understanding to the grumpy MMC as he works through his past and his electric feelings towards her. The spice is hot from the beginning and the MMC loves to dominate.
A phenomenal romantic suspense novel. This book hits the ground running in the first chapter and I was absolutely hooked. This book features enemies to lovers, forced proximity and some small town romance. The FMC is so sweet and understanding to the grumpy MMC as he works through his past and his electric feelings towards her. The spice is hot from the beginning and the MMC loves to dominate.
February 23, 2023
This was a quick read in the sense that I really couldn't put it down and devoured it. I loved every bump in the rocky road Piper and Aiden travel down. If you love a grumpy hero that tries (but fails) really hard to ignore his feelings, you'll want to read this! The intensity felt just right for this book and definitely had moments that were more intense than others. The portrayal of the tougher moments were perfect though. I can't wait to read more of this series and from this author.
February 25, 2023
'Sweet P'
Ah, that nickname was so cute, especially Aidan's reasoning behind it.
Piper and Aidan have an instant connection from the moment she bursts through the trees and into his clearing.
My heart broke for Aidan and his past but I love how much he leaned on Piper to start to work through it. They're exactly who each other needs.
Recommended if you enjoy sweet, reluctant, spicy, with a dash of suspense romance!
Ah, that nickname was so cute, especially Aidan's reasoning behind it.
Piper and Aidan have an instant connection from the moment she bursts through the trees and into his clearing.
My heart broke for Aidan and his past but I love how much he leaned on Piper to start to work through it. They're exactly who each other needs.
Recommended if you enjoy sweet, reluctant, spicy, with a dash of suspense romance!
August 12, 2023
I loved how sweet this was! I smiled about 89% of the time.
Tender, real-life love story developing alongside a mysterious murder. I'm grateful for the opportunity to read this novel, as it's made me happier!
The one bad thing I could say was that there were way too many hypens. Several on each page, in fact. Other than that, perfect.
The small town setting was beautifully written. The adorable banter was spot on. Even the small town feuds were included, LOVED it.
Tender, real-life love story developing alongside a mysterious murder. I'm grateful for the opportunity to read this novel, as it's made me happier!
The one bad thing I could say was that there were way too many hypens. Several on each page, in fact. Other than that, perfect.
The small town setting was beautifully written. The adorable banter was spot on. Even the small town feuds were included, LOVED it.
December 26, 2024
This book was nicely written, and a great mix of romance and suspense. I enjoyed both character's POV - however I found some of Piper's inner dialogue inauthentic at times. She is an independent, self-sufficient and self-made woman, working as a librarian, but her inner dialogue at times is juvenile and immature.
The book was short enough to not be unnecessarily drawn out, but also long enough to run through the plot, climax and ending without feeling too rushed.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Victory Editing Co-op for the ARC.
The book was short enough to not be unnecessarily drawn out, but also long enough to run through the plot, climax and ending without feeling too rushed.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Victory Editing Co-op for the ARC.
January 27, 2023
Right away I was drawn into the book. The very beginning of the book hooked me right in. I kept wanting to read to see what would happen next. There was enough suspense that kept the book interesting. I would recommend this author to people who like romance and suspense. I would read another book by this author.
I received a complimentary copy of this book via Voracious Readers Only
I received a complimentary copy of this book via Voracious Readers Only
January 29, 2023
⭐️: 4/5
🌶️: 7/10
Little bit of mystery whole lot of slow burn.
This book was great! The opening scene had my heart racing and wanting to know what happened next. The slow burn between Piper and Aidan was just delicious. Close proximity and forced situations with the immediate tension was just *chef’s kiss*. Can’t wait to read Lucy’s story this summer!
🌶️: 7/10
Little bit of mystery whole lot of slow burn.
This book was great! The opening scene had my heart racing and wanting to know what happened next. The slow burn between Piper and Aidan was just delicious. Close proximity and forced situations with the immediate tension was just *chef’s kiss*. Can’t wait to read Lucy’s story this summer!
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