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Iron Outlaws MC: Colorado #1
The Grief We Hold
😠 Grumpy Sunshine
💔 Widowed Hero
🏍 MC Romance
💘 Afraid to commit
🔥 Forced proximity
🥵 Let's bang it out of our system
🌶 Wax play
Raven
I don't know where my husband has disappeared to, but I know I'll do anything to keep our son safe from the men he conned before he fled.
If that means moving to a small town in Colorado to live a different life, I'll do it.
But what I wasn't expecting was the grief-stricken biker who feels the urge to protect us both.
Even though he clearly resents every minute of it.
Wraith
Two years ago, enemies of my motorcycle club took my wife and baby daughter from me, killing me without stopping my heart.
From that day, I've lived for one thing.
Vengeance.
Until a single mom shows up in town with her young son, reminding me of the life I lost.
And when danger finds them, I'm forced to make the choice that will change my life forever.
💔 Widowed Hero
🏍 MC Romance
💘 Afraid to commit
🔥 Forced proximity
🥵 Let's bang it out of our system
🌶 Wax play
Raven
I don't know where my husband has disappeared to, but I know I'll do anything to keep our son safe from the men he conned before he fled.
If that means moving to a small town in Colorado to live a different life, I'll do it.
But what I wasn't expecting was the grief-stricken biker who feels the urge to protect us both.
Even though he clearly resents every minute of it.
Wraith
Two years ago, enemies of my motorcycle club took my wife and baby daughter from me, killing me without stopping my heart.
From that day, I've lived for one thing.
Vengeance.
Until a single mom shows up in town with her young son, reminding me of the life I lost.
And when danger finds them, I'm forced to make the choice that will change my life forever.
346 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 23, 2025
693 people are currently reading
666 people want to read
About the author
Scarlett Cole
45 books2,216 followersFour-time RITA finalist, Scarlett Cole, is a contemporary romantic suspense / contemporary romance author (represented by Louise Fury at The Bent Agency) who calls both Toronto, Canada and Manchester, England home. A born city dweller, she periodically quashes the urge to live in the country by hiking up a mountain to remind herself that living away from people would terrify the pants off her.
She believes everybody deserves their love story to be told and loves her heroes on the rough and rugged side…and usually tall (because she married one of those 6ft 6” men you read about in romance!). She’s an A-type personality and Scorpio star sign, so good luck getting her to do anything she doesn’t want to.
When she isn’t writing, she’s happy to talk hot men and expensive shoes while drinking a cold gin and tonic. Don’t bring up olives. As far as Scarlett is concerned, they are the devil’s food. As long as you don’t bring up olives, she’s happy to hear from any time.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scarlettcole/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/itsscarlettcole
Twitter: https://twitter.com/ItsScarlettCole
Amazon: https://amzn.to/2FNTzyC
BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/scarl...
Newsletter sign-up: http://www.scarlettcole.com/contact
If you want to know more about Scarlett's books, visit her at:
www.scarlettcole.com
She believes everybody deserves their love story to be told and loves her heroes on the rough and rugged side…and usually tall (because she married one of those 6ft 6” men you read about in romance!). She’s an A-type personality and Scorpio star sign, so good luck getting her to do anything she doesn’t want to.
When she isn’t writing, she’s happy to talk hot men and expensive shoes while drinking a cold gin and tonic. Don’t bring up olives. As far as Scarlett is concerned, they are the devil’s food. As long as you don’t bring up olives, she’s happy to hear from any time.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scarlettcole/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/itsscarlettcole
Twitter: https://twitter.com/ItsScarlettCole
Amazon: https://amzn.to/2FNTzyC
BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/scarl...
Newsletter sign-up: http://www.scarlettcole.com/contact
If you want to know more about Scarlett's books, visit her at:
www.scarlettcole.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 160 reviews
February 6, 2025
3.5 stars - we talked about the dead wife far too much and I don’t like any comparisons between someone that’s dead and your current love interest so that ANNOYED me but I digress I got over it
January 19, 2025
Off The Charts Good!!!
If you are looking for a book that draws you in from the get go and holds on tight the whole way through you’ll want to get your hands on this book. There are a few authors that know how to write that makes you feel a part of what you are reading drawing out every emotion possible and Ms. Cole is that author hands down.
Wraith, having lost so much in his life, so when a woman and child show up in town his past comes to the forefront. Raven was on the run doing her best to protect her son. I absolutely loved Raven and the mama bear in her that put her child first.
This book drew out so many emotions and ripped my heart out and had me hoping that Wraith, Raven and Fen would find their way to an HEA.
I have always highly recommended this author’s work and this book is now added to that list. This is the beginning of fantastic series that I’m looking forward to.
If you are looking for a book that draws you in from the get go and holds on tight the whole way through you’ll want to get your hands on this book. There are a few authors that know how to write that makes you feel a part of what you are reading drawing out every emotion possible and Ms. Cole is that author hands down.
Wraith, having lost so much in his life, so when a woman and child show up in town his past comes to the forefront. Raven was on the run doing her best to protect her son. I absolutely loved Raven and the mama bear in her that put her child first.
This book drew out so many emotions and ripped my heart out and had me hoping that Wraith, Raven and Fen would find their way to an HEA.
I have always highly recommended this author’s work and this book is now added to that list. This is the beginning of fantastic series that I’m looking forward to.
January 28, 2025
FLOVED it!! 😍
Story: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Trope: heroine in peril, love after loss
Angst: 😱😱😱
Smexy: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
S. Cole Really knocked it out of the park with this 1st installment in her new MC series. Wraith and Raven were 🔥🔥🔥. I'm not a huge fan of the love after loss trope, but this one was really sweet. Both of these characters were so complex and have tragic pasts that will tug at your heartstrings. Their journey is a bumpy one, but so worth it in the end. This story was super fast paced with tons of twists and turns. Their chemistry was off the charts and their smexy times super hot! The teaser for the next book was just fabulous, lol. The new Pres is quite the piece of work. At one point, I wanted to reach through my kindle And kick his 🍑. Hopefully, he's going to get his comeuppance on day as well, lol.
Story: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Trope: heroine in peril, love after loss
Angst: 😱😱😱
Smexy: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
S. Cole Really knocked it out of the park with this 1st installment in her new MC series. Wraith and Raven were 🔥🔥🔥. I'm not a huge fan of the love after loss trope, but this one was really sweet. Both of these characters were so complex and have tragic pasts that will tug at your heartstrings. Their journey is a bumpy one, but so worth it in the end. This story was super fast paced with tons of twists and turns. Their chemistry was off the charts and their smexy times super hot! The teaser for the next book was just fabulous, lol. The new Pres is quite the piece of work. At one point, I wanted to reach through my kindle And kick his 🍑. Hopefully, he's going to get his comeuppance on day as well, lol.
January 27, 2025
Well, I finally finished! I don’t want anyone reading this review to get the wrong idea and think this story was lengthy or drawn out and that’s why I took longer than release to finish, because that isn’t the case. I hadn’t been inside a Scarlett Cole MC world in a while, so I wanted to really pay attention and absorb everything and honestly, if you send me an ARC less than a week before release day, these delays are bound to happen. So, here we are …
For as much as I loved this story, there were some aspects of it that just didn’t make me happy. I wasn’t happy with the lack of depth in Raven’s character. Not just the depth, but also her entire concept of the world. That was contradictory and weird. She has an “abusive” background, yet it doesn’t show in her personality, actions, mannerisms or even thought process. She didn’t get a “prologue” so as a reader, I didn’t experience the moment in time that caused her to “run” except when she told the story. Having that prologue would have gone a long way in establishing her present circumstances. Who says you can’t have two prologues in a story? This story called for it and I hate that the opportunity was missed. I’m not going to detail the many ways her character didn’t make sense to me as a woman running from abuse because this will turn into a short story LOL except to say she knows “bad” men are after her husband, yet she doesn’t do anything much to erase her footprint … 👀👀👀
I honestly thought that the conflict the club was having with the Bratva would somehow either fuse, crossover or intertwine with the conflict Raven was facing because of her husband’s bad behavior. That was a missed opportunity that would have gone a long way with their “at first sight” connection.
The bones of this story make for a deeply emotional journey. Raven and Wraith both have individual paths that are part of the bigger picture that will tug at your heart in many ways. That’s the part of this book I feel is exceptional. Raven’s devotion to all things Fen is endearing and is what caused me to really connect with her character. Wraith’s struggles from his past are real and relatable and seriously broke my heart.
Two quotes stood out for me because I have lived and will always live with an imaginable loss that was sudden and abrupt and changed my entire trajectory in life. I wasn’t prepared for it then nor am I now, truth be told.
“Sometimes grief is sticky.”
“Grief is a weird thing. It changes form and intensity. It’s like a receding tide that occasionally rushes back to shore thanks to a big wave.”
Scarlett’s portrayal of Wraith’s “process” was very well developed and is what I connected most in the story. I was so caught up in his storyline that the big picture didn’t really matter in the end for me. And that’s the reasoning behind my rating. Without his personal journey I honestly don’t think I could have rated the story favorably as a whole. But, don’t misunderstand, this is still a really good “story”, but it just had too many superficial aspects to make it a great Scarlett story.
For as much as I loved this story, there were some aspects of it that just didn’t make me happy. I wasn’t happy with the lack of depth in Raven’s character. Not just the depth, but also her entire concept of the world. That was contradictory and weird. She has an “abusive” background, yet it doesn’t show in her personality, actions, mannerisms or even thought process. She didn’t get a “prologue” so as a reader, I didn’t experience the moment in time that caused her to “run” except when she told the story. Having that prologue would have gone a long way in establishing her present circumstances. Who says you can’t have two prologues in a story? This story called for it and I hate that the opportunity was missed. I’m not going to detail the many ways her character didn’t make sense to me as a woman running from abuse because this will turn into a short story LOL except to say she knows “bad” men are after her husband, yet she doesn’t do anything much to erase her footprint … 👀👀👀
I honestly thought that the conflict the club was having with the Bratva would somehow either fuse, crossover or intertwine with the conflict Raven was facing because of her husband’s bad behavior. That was a missed opportunity that would have gone a long way with their “at first sight” connection.
The bones of this story make for a deeply emotional journey. Raven and Wraith both have individual paths that are part of the bigger picture that will tug at your heart in many ways. That’s the part of this book I feel is exceptional. Raven’s devotion to all things Fen is endearing and is what caused me to really connect with her character. Wraith’s struggles from his past are real and relatable and seriously broke my heart.
Two quotes stood out for me because I have lived and will always live with an imaginable loss that was sudden and abrupt and changed my entire trajectory in life. I wasn’t prepared for it then nor am I now, truth be told.
“Sometimes grief is sticky.”
“Grief is a weird thing. It changes form and intensity. It’s like a receding tide that occasionally rushes back to shore thanks to a big wave.”
Scarlett’s portrayal of Wraith’s “process” was very well developed and is what I connected most in the story. I was so caught up in his storyline that the big picture didn’t really matter in the end for me. And that’s the reasoning behind my rating. Without his personal journey I honestly don’t think I could have rated the story favorably as a whole. But, don’t misunderstand, this is still a really good “story”, but it just had too many superficial aspects to make it a great Scarlett story.
January 23, 2025
5 stars
A darkly emotional MC romance with a beautifully sweet love story, this is a dramatic and exciting read with action and suspense, and a fantastically functional and steamy love story. This book captured my heart and had me had me hooked from the very beginning, and I was all in with this gorgeous couple.
This is the first book in the Iron Outlaws MC: Colorado series, a spin-off from the phenomenal Iron Outlaws MC series. It’s set in the same world, and there is some character crossover (and some very enjoyable cameos), but it sits separately from the original and you could easily read this one as a standalone.
Wraith is Sargent at Arms of his MC, and he loves his club, but he is a broken man and has become a shadow of who he used to be since his wife and baby daughter were murdered by club enemies two years previously. Instead, he has become a violent vigilante, obsessed with seeking vengeance, to the exclusion of pretty much everything else.
Raven is new to town. On the run from dangerous enemies of her ex, she has run with her five year old son and though she has pretty much nothing, she’s determined to create a fresh start for them and build and a quiet and safe life,
There is an immediate attraction between Wraith and Raven from the moment they lay eyes on each other, but they are complete opposites who want nothing to do with each other. She’s laying low and wants to be far away from the danger that surrounds Wraith, and he is still completely consumed with his grief and can’t think of anything beyond that. But he feels an odd protectiveness over Raven and little Fen, drawn to help them both when he sees them struggling, and though he’s initially reluctant, his caring nature shines through and he quickly becomes a part of their lives.
From the very beginning I loved these two together! They’re both very independent, and they have very real reasons for keeping their distance, but they’re not oblivious, they know what they’re feeling, and they also know that they’re fighting a losing battle.
The chemistry absolutely sizzles and their coming together is sexy and intense, sweet, emotional, swoony and so fantastically functional, and I could not get enough! It’s not all easy, and they have issues to work through, but they don’t hold back from each other, and it’s so, so good! They have no problems saying it like it is, and I loved that that there were no stupid miscommunication issues. They are mature adults who may make mistakes but they deal with their situation well, and I loved how functional they are. Though they are both reluctant to open their hearts again, they talk about their feelings, wants and expectations, and I was completely swept up in it all.
Wraith may be a complete badass, but he shows heartbreaking vulnerability. God, I hurt for him seeing just how shattered he was. But Raven and Fen bring light back into his life. He begins to live again, and I loved watching him reclaim his life and fight for his happiness. And Raven is a freaking rockstar – firstly for having the strength to stand up to Wraith despite her fears, and then to slowly learn to trust him so openly. Their romance is so, so gorgeous.
But they are both in danger – from Raven’s ex’s shady behaviour, and again from the very nature of Wraith’s world. There is action, drama and suspense which create an exciting world and makes everything between them so much more intense as they find something so amazing together in the midst of such chaos and destruction.
We are introduced to the rest of the MC, and I love how it has a different vibe to the original Iron Outlaws MC series. They are one-percenters, and their world is dangerous and violent, but the dynamics of the club are very different and I like how that becomes a part of the story, and I’m looking forward to seeing how it all develops in future books.
This is a fantastic start to the series. The hints for the next book have me SO freaking excited to continue, and I can’t wait for more.
I loved this one – 5 stars.
An Advanced Review Copy was generously provided by the author for an honest review.
A darkly emotional MC romance with a beautifully sweet love story, this is a dramatic and exciting read with action and suspense, and a fantastically functional and steamy love story. This book captured my heart and had me had me hooked from the very beginning, and I was all in with this gorgeous couple.
This is the first book in the Iron Outlaws MC: Colorado series, a spin-off from the phenomenal Iron Outlaws MC series. It’s set in the same world, and there is some character crossover (and some very enjoyable cameos), but it sits separately from the original and you could easily read this one as a standalone.
Wraith is Sargent at Arms of his MC, and he loves his club, but he is a broken man and has become a shadow of who he used to be since his wife and baby daughter were murdered by club enemies two years previously. Instead, he has become a violent vigilante, obsessed with seeking vengeance, to the exclusion of pretty much everything else.
Raven is new to town. On the run from dangerous enemies of her ex, she has run with her five year old son and though she has pretty much nothing, she’s determined to create a fresh start for them and build and a quiet and safe life,
There is an immediate attraction between Wraith and Raven from the moment they lay eyes on each other, but they are complete opposites who want nothing to do with each other. She’s laying low and wants to be far away from the danger that surrounds Wraith, and he is still completely consumed with his grief and can’t think of anything beyond that. But he feels an odd protectiveness over Raven and little Fen, drawn to help them both when he sees them struggling, and though he’s initially reluctant, his caring nature shines through and he quickly becomes a part of their lives.
“I’m a dangerous man, Raven. You’re right to be cautious of me. But I’m still going to make sure nothing happens to you.”
From the very beginning I loved these two together! They’re both very independent, and they have very real reasons for keeping their distance, but they’re not oblivious, they know what they’re feeling, and they also know that they’re fighting a losing battle.
Sometimes, a look means nothing. A passing glance at something that catches the eye. But sometimes, a look means everything. When there’s honesty in it. And vulnerability. And a spark that could ignite any second.
The chemistry absolutely sizzles and their coming together is sexy and intense, sweet, emotional, swoony and so fantastically functional, and I could not get enough! It’s not all easy, and they have issues to work through, but they don’t hold back from each other, and it’s so, so good! They have no problems saying it like it is, and I loved that that there were no stupid miscommunication issues. They are mature adults who may make mistakes but they deal with their situation well, and I loved how functional they are. Though they are both reluctant to open their hearts again, they talk about their feelings, wants and expectations, and I was completely swept up in it all.
“Who’s gonna make sure you’re okay, Blue?”
She swallows deeply. “You?”
I’m gonna work to take away the uncertainty she has that turns the one word into a complete question.
“Give me a chance to fight for us.”
Wraith may be a complete badass, but he shows heartbreaking vulnerability. God, I hurt for him seeing just how shattered he was. But Raven and Fen bring light back into his life. He begins to live again, and I loved watching him reclaim his life and fight for his happiness. And Raven is a freaking rockstar – firstly for having the strength to stand up to Wraith despite her fears, and then to slowly learn to trust him so openly. Their romance is so, so gorgeous.
“You’re enough, Blue. Just as you are. Just be you. That’s the only person I want.”
But they are both in danger – from Raven’s ex’s shady behaviour, and again from the very nature of Wraith’s world. There is action, drama and suspense which create an exciting world and makes everything between them so much more intense as they find something so amazing together in the midst of such chaos and destruction.
“I love you, and you alone, Raven. I didn’t think it was possible, but you’ve glued my heart together.”
We are introduced to the rest of the MC, and I love how it has a different vibe to the original Iron Outlaws MC series. They are one-percenters, and their world is dangerous and violent, but the dynamics of the club are very different and I like how that becomes a part of the story, and I’m looking forward to seeing how it all develops in future books.
This is a fantastic start to the series. The hints for the next book have me SO freaking excited to continue, and I can’t wait for more.
I loved this one – 5 stars.
An Advanced Review Copy was generously provided by the author for an honest review.
January 22, 2025
***5 Stars***
Was I sad to say good-bye to the original Iron Outlaws crew? Yes. No doubt. But I was happy that it was a true good-bye to the Iron Outlaws as a whole, and I have to say that I am definitely looking forward to getting to know the guys in this chapter and the women who will be bringing them to their knees.
Wraith and Raven’s (and Fen’s) journey to their HEA definitely hooked me from the moment they met. Neither were looking for a relationship, but fate stepped in and made it impossible for either of them to forget the other and ignore the attraction they felt towards each other, which, despite all the odds grew into something they never saw coming. Raven is feisty and I loved how she fought for herself and Fen and their happiness. Wraith is a grump at times and can be harsh, but he is a good, loyal and protective man underneath it all.
As I said, I’m looking forward to getting to know everyone in the Colorado chapter. They definitely have a different vibe and dynamic going on, but I can already tell it’s going to be a fun, chaotic ride. Now, while I know I have no control over this whatsoever, but I do hope that there are times when the various chapters come together because I have a feeling there will be some amazing moments when they do.
~ Copy provided by WFMS & voluntarily reviewed ~
Was I sad to say good-bye to the original Iron Outlaws crew? Yes. No doubt. But I was happy that it was a true good-bye to the Iron Outlaws as a whole, and I have to say that I am definitely looking forward to getting to know the guys in this chapter and the women who will be bringing them to their knees.
Wraith and Raven’s (and Fen’s) journey to their HEA definitely hooked me from the moment they met. Neither were looking for a relationship, but fate stepped in and made it impossible for either of them to forget the other and ignore the attraction they felt towards each other, which, despite all the odds grew into something they never saw coming. Raven is feisty and I loved how she fought for herself and Fen and their happiness. Wraith is a grump at times and can be harsh, but he is a good, loyal and protective man underneath it all.
As I said, I’m looking forward to getting to know everyone in the Colorado chapter. They definitely have a different vibe and dynamic going on, but I can already tell it’s going to be a fun, chaotic ride. Now, while I know I have no control over this whatsoever, but I do hope that there are times when the various chapters come together because I have a feeling there will be some amazing moments when they do.
~ Copy provided by WFMS & voluntarily reviewed ~
March 23, 2025
Yum! I really, really enjoyed this first installment in the Colorado chapter of the Iron Outlaws! At first, I thought Raven might be too timid for me to really love her, but she wasn't, and I did!
Running from a husband who had hidden who he truly was, Raven ended up in a small town in Colorado, working at a diner. Keeping herself and her son safe was the one thing she wanted and needed to do. And she did a great job at that!
Then, there's Wraith... who had it all, but lost it in a horrific way. Only thinking of vengeance until he met Raven. And he was so very confused by his own feelings. And that just made everything even better!
Running from a husband who had hidden who he truly was, Raven ended up in a small town in Colorado, working at a diner. Keeping herself and her son safe was the one thing she wanted and needed to do. And she did a great job at that!
Then, there's Wraith... who had it all, but lost it in a horrific way. Only thinking of vengeance until he met Raven. And he was so very confused by his own feelings. And that just made everything even better!
May 10, 2025
The title caught my attention and fit perfectly with this story. Wraith was drowning in grief and focused solely on revenge until he met Raven and Fen. I wasn't too thrilled about some of the club activities, but aside from that, this was a really great story. I understand some readers don't enjoy it when the MMC was previously married or trying to move on from a prior relationship whether it was a good or bad one. It's the former case here and we get to see Wraith finding closure as well as work through guilt while spending time with Raven and her son. There were some very heartfelt moments and I thought this was a great story.
“You know, some men are meant to be single forever. Doesn’t stop ‘em trying to find a wife. That’s how they end up with three or four divorces under their belt. And some men are put on this earth to be a good fucking husband.”
So well said by one of Wraith's club brother. He was a great character.
“You know, some men are meant to be single forever. Doesn’t stop ‘em trying to find a wife. That’s how they end up with three or four divorces under their belt. And some men are put on this earth to be a good fucking husband.”
So well said by one of Wraith's club brother. He was a great character.
January 17, 2025
Scarlett has done it again! I already know this is going to be a fantastic series. When I first started Wraith and Raven’s story my first thoughts were “damn it seems like a darker series with guys that are more aggressive and angry, especially Butcher”. But very quickly I was liking Smoke and even Butcher. Wraith’s pain and grief were excruciating. I knew he was suffering immensely over the loss of his wife and daughter two years prior, it showed in his actions and how he treated Raven at times, and the one time when he kinda snapped at Fern. It also made it incredibly difficult to fully like him at first. I loved Raven immediately and I thought she was incredibly strong and independent. She was such a great mom and I was in awe of how hard she worked and everything she did for her and Fern. That little boy was such a delight and the cutest thing ever. I loved watching the bond between him and Wraith. My heart hurt for Raven at times because she was trying her damnest and the scenes with her and Fern walking home in the rain and then trying to drag a dresser down the street had my heart cracking. For everything Raven was going through she didn’t deserve Wraith’s anger, like the morning after they spent the night together and she tried bringing him breakfast. I understood his hurt, but I hated seeing Raven on the receiving end of it. But damn was she tough. For every outburst and ignorant thing Wraith said and did, she called him on his shit and didn’t let him get away with it.
Probably one of my favorite moments was when Wraith finally put Margie in her place. I knew from the start she was going to try everything to cause issues with Wraith moving on with Raven. So it was a relief to see Wraith stop calling her Ma and get very firm with where things stood and if anyone would be leaving it’d be her and not Raven! I so wanted to high five him. It was that moment I loved him!
I can’t recommend Scarlett’s MC books enough. They are all absolutely incredible and written perfectly with the perfect balance of action, angst, and spice!
Probably one of my favorite moments was when Wraith finally put Margie in her place. I knew from the start she was going to try everything to cause issues with Wraith moving on with Raven. So it was a relief to see Wraith stop calling her Ma and get very firm with where things stood and if anyone would be leaving it’d be her and not Raven! I so wanted to high five him. It was that moment I loved him!
I can’t recommend Scarlett’s MC books enough. They are all absolutely incredible and written perfectly with the perfect balance of action, angst, and spice!
March 27, 2025
3.95 stars
What I didn't enjoy, and it's been the same with the previous series is,
Anyway, moving on.
I loved the heroine. And her little boy. I really felt her struggles, and other reviews have said she didn't have much character, I heartily disagree with this. She was well rounded and we see how she evolves as her confidence grew.
This book was never going to hit all the marks for me, simply because the trope I rarely pick up voluntarily is the dead spouse. Those kinds of topics ruin the romance for me, because inevitably, you have one lead character constantly pining for the dead spouse, constantly comparing, and in my brain, it's a hard switch to suddenly believe they are now in love with the new person.
Having said that! The author worked wonders with Wraith's grief. oh, how I felt it solidly and it wasn't overused. it was just right. Some of the grief lines got me right in my feels and or that, it's the mark of a great author.
Even if it's a trope and topic I don't particularly enjoy, I will give it a go if it's this author who is writing it.
While this book isn't my favourite, due to the reasons already stated, it is brilliantly written and would still recommend it for any MC fans, or romance in general. You won't regret becoming a fan of this author! And the next book in the series is a pining trope and sounds delicious!
What I didn't enjoy, and it's been the same with the previous series is,
Anyway, moving on.
I loved the heroine. And her little boy. I really felt her struggles, and other reviews have said she didn't have much character, I heartily disagree with this. She was well rounded and we see how she evolves as her confidence grew.
This book was never going to hit all the marks for me, simply because the trope I rarely pick up voluntarily is the dead spouse. Those kinds of topics ruin the romance for me, because inevitably, you have one lead character constantly pining for the dead spouse, constantly comparing, and in my brain, it's a hard switch to suddenly believe they are now in love with the new person.
Having said that! The author worked wonders with Wraith's grief. oh, how I felt it solidly and it wasn't overused. it was just right. Some of the grief lines got me right in my feels and or that, it's the mark of a great author.
Even if it's a trope and topic I don't particularly enjoy, I will give it a go if it's this author who is writing it.
While this book isn't my favourite, due to the reasons already stated, it is brilliantly written and would still recommend it for any MC fans, or romance in general. You won't regret becoming a fan of this author! And the next book in the series is a pining trope and sounds delicious!
January 24, 2025
Review by: Jennifer
(5 Stars)
Two years after the death of his wife and child, Wraith is still grieving, his world now revolves around revenge on the club's behalf but mostly for his own. Wraith doesn't have time or even the need for Raven to come into his life, but once she is there, he can't seem to get her out. Wraith can't help but be protective over Raven, especially when her past comes back to haunt her. Wraith still tries to deny there is anything there, will he realize that Raven is his second chance at love or will he be too late?
As much as I loved the original chapter of the Iron Outlaws, I have a feeling that this new chapter is going to blow them out the water!! Starting this off strong with Wraith and Raven's story, giving us all the feels, drama, danger, violence, and holy cow that naughty bits that were on fire!!! I give this 5 stars.
(5 Stars)
Two years after the death of his wife and child, Wraith is still grieving, his world now revolves around revenge on the club's behalf but mostly for his own. Wraith doesn't have time or even the need for Raven to come into his life, but once she is there, he can't seem to get her out. Wraith can't help but be protective over Raven, especially when her past comes back to haunt her. Wraith still tries to deny there is anything there, will he realize that Raven is his second chance at love or will he be too late?
As much as I loved the original chapter of the Iron Outlaws, I have a feeling that this new chapter is going to blow them out the water!! Starting this off strong with Wraith and Raven's story, giving us all the feels, drama, danger, violence, and holy cow that naughty bits that were on fire!!! I give this 5 stars.
January 20, 2025
Since finishing Cole’s first Iron Outlaws MC series, I was so excited to dive into the Colorado chapter. I was hooked right from the prologue of this book. I loved the character development of so many new characters along with cameos of some of my favorites from Jersey. This book had action, steamy scenes, and really pulled on my heartstrings quite a bit.
I absolutely loved Wraith even though my heart broke for him. Raven is beyond perfect for him and I loved how they were able to break down each others’ walls. I definitely want more of Wraith and Raven.
This is such a great start to a new MC series and I can’t wait for the next book to come out!
I absolutely loved Wraith even though my heart broke for him. Raven is beyond perfect for him and I loved how they were able to break down each others’ walls. I definitely want more of Wraith and Raven.
This is such a great start to a new MC series and I can’t wait for the next book to come out!
January 25, 2025
Another 5 star read from Scarlett
Wraith is a broken man, seeking vengeance for the death of his wife and baby girl. Raven is a single mum on the run from an abusive husband who's got mixed up with some bad people. Try as he might Wraith cannot get Raven out of his mind, this man thinks one night will be enough, but she starts to repair his broken heart.
I absolutely adored this story, Niro is still my main man but Wraith is right up there with him. Wraith and Niro sandwich anyone?? 🤣🤣
Wraith is a broken man, seeking vengeance for the death of his wife and baby girl. Raven is a single mum on the run from an abusive husband who's got mixed up with some bad people. Try as he might Wraith cannot get Raven out of his mind, this man thinks one night will be enough, but she starts to repair his broken heart.
I absolutely adored this story, Niro is still my main man but Wraith is right up there with him. Wraith and Niro sandwich anyone?? 🤣🤣
January 26, 2025
Scarlett Cole never disappoints
S. Cole quickly became one of my favourite author just like the Iron Outlaws quickly became one of my favourite MC.
There’s right balance between the romance, the spice, the action and the humour that comes with the found family trope.
Wraith deserved all the love after the painful two years he went through and Raven deserved a good man after enduring her ex.
They were so perfect for each other. 🥰
S. Cole quickly became one of my favourite author just like the Iron Outlaws quickly became one of my favourite MC.
There’s right balance between the romance, the spice, the action and the humour that comes with the found family trope.
Wraith deserved all the love after the painful two years he went through and Raven deserved a good man after enduring her ex.
They were so perfect for each other. 🥰
March 27, 2025
I liked this one but it did drag a few times. The H spends a good portion of the book grieving his wife and baby who were murdered by a rival gang 2 years ago. So there is an overcast of sadness. It was focused on a lot. Too much really since this is a book about the H finding new love. Murdered babies is not something I want to read about and definitely not in my romance reads. The story is good though….
March 1, 2025
3 stars
I'm not entirely sure how I feel about this book. It's my first MC book in a long time, and I found a few things bothersome. For starters, I didn't connect with the characters at all, and their love story felt lackluster. Additionally, the writing style didn't resonate with me. Overall, it just didn’t hit the mark.
I'm not entirely sure how I feel about this book. It's my first MC book in a long time, and I found a few things bothersome. For starters, I didn't connect with the characters at all, and their love story felt lackluster. Additionally, the writing style didn't resonate with me. Overall, it just didn’t hit the mark.
January 20, 2025
The Grief We Hold by S. Cole is the first book in her new series about the Colorado chapter of
the Iron Outlaws MC. I absolutely loved the original series and Scarlett didn’t let me down with these new cowboy bikers. She opens with an emotional and heart wrenching romance about Axel Fischer aka Wraith and Raven. He’s the widowed sergeant at arms and she has just arrived in town. Raven is the sunshine to his grumpy and her son Fen just steals the show. With danger lurking round the corner for both her and the MC, will Wraith take this second chance of happiness and allow himself to love and be loved by ‘Blue” or is he still stuck in the past?
“ Protecting the living is more important than avenging the dead.”
Two years ago Wraith was loving life until a rival MC took his family away from him. His life is now one of revenge as he searches for those responsible. He is haunted by not being able to protect
his wife and child, so vengeance is all he has left. Raven left Seattle to find somewhere safe to bring up Fen who has seen more than he should in his young life. Arriving in town she’s managed to get a job and find somewhere to live.
Wraith first meets Raven when she serves him in the diner and is confused over his attraction towards her. Although told to stay away from her, it is the first time he’s ever felt a connection to someone since the tragedy. By the time they have interacted a few more times, he is full of conflicting thoughts. He knows she deserves better as he hasn’t grieved properly and still fights the memories of the past. Raven sees the MC as intimidating and dangerous, to much like her old life and she is desperate to do her best for Fen. She is such a strong character and never apologises for her attitude and calls Wraith out on his. It is great when she stands up to him in front of everyone after a night together at the club and she doesn’t like how he behaves.
We are introduced to all the other members and I know I’ve already got some favourites. The brotherhood is strong but Wraith has been distracted and they are having problems with the Russian Bratva. While they fight to keep their territory, he battles with his feelings for Raven.
I loved how Atom is so pleased Raven has brought Wraith back to life and how much Smoke teases him. It was great seeing King and the guys visit and I loved Spark’s advice to Wraith.
I laughed at the book they were reading in the book club and the hilarious incident when she goes on his bike for the first time. I loved their awakening in the woods, all the little touches back to his family and how he stood up for her to Ma and the MC. My heart went out to both of them as they exchanged their stories. She shows such empathy towards him, his grief and him finding it hard to let his family go. He hates what she has been through and protects her when her past catches up with her. Wraith is so kind and sweet with Fen and makes him feel safe but could they live in his dangerous world. Is he ready to face a future with her and put the past behind him?
A couple of good twists and surprises at the end and then a great epilogue for this couple. Then a second one for Atom’s book, hopefully with Ember. I think Scarlett is going to break our hearts with The Oath We Take. I can’t believe how Scarlett keeps managing to come up with these beautifully written and wonderful stories. This MC chapter look like they are going to give our IOMC a run for their money. A fantastic MC romance.
the Iron Outlaws MC. I absolutely loved the original series and Scarlett didn’t let me down with these new cowboy bikers. She opens with an emotional and heart wrenching romance about Axel Fischer aka Wraith and Raven. He’s the widowed sergeant at arms and she has just arrived in town. Raven is the sunshine to his grumpy and her son Fen just steals the show. With danger lurking round the corner for both her and the MC, will Wraith take this second chance of happiness and allow himself to love and be loved by ‘Blue” or is he still stuck in the past?
“ Protecting the living is more important than avenging the dead.”
Two years ago Wraith was loving life until a rival MC took his family away from him. His life is now one of revenge as he searches for those responsible. He is haunted by not being able to protect
his wife and child, so vengeance is all he has left. Raven left Seattle to find somewhere safe to bring up Fen who has seen more than he should in his young life. Arriving in town she’s managed to get a job and find somewhere to live.
Wraith first meets Raven when she serves him in the diner and is confused over his attraction towards her. Although told to stay away from her, it is the first time he’s ever felt a connection to someone since the tragedy. By the time they have interacted a few more times, he is full of conflicting thoughts. He knows she deserves better as he hasn’t grieved properly and still fights the memories of the past. Raven sees the MC as intimidating and dangerous, to much like her old life and she is desperate to do her best for Fen. She is such a strong character and never apologises for her attitude and calls Wraith out on his. It is great when she stands up to him in front of everyone after a night together at the club and she doesn’t like how he behaves.
We are introduced to all the other members and I know I’ve already got some favourites. The brotherhood is strong but Wraith has been distracted and they are having problems with the Russian Bratva. While they fight to keep their territory, he battles with his feelings for Raven.
I loved how Atom is so pleased Raven has brought Wraith back to life and how much Smoke teases him. It was great seeing King and the guys visit and I loved Spark’s advice to Wraith.
I laughed at the book they were reading in the book club and the hilarious incident when she goes on his bike for the first time. I loved their awakening in the woods, all the little touches back to his family and how he stood up for her to Ma and the MC. My heart went out to both of them as they exchanged their stories. She shows such empathy towards him, his grief and him finding it hard to let his family go. He hates what she has been through and protects her when her past catches up with her. Wraith is so kind and sweet with Fen and makes him feel safe but could they live in his dangerous world. Is he ready to face a future with her and put the past behind him?
A couple of good twists and surprises at the end and then a great epilogue for this couple. Then a second one for Atom’s book, hopefully with Ember. I think Scarlett is going to break our hearts with The Oath We Take. I can’t believe how Scarlett keeps managing to come up with these beautifully written and wonderful stories. This MC chapter look like they are going to give our IOMC a run for their money. A fantastic MC romance.
January 27, 2025
TW: violence, deuil, violence domestique, mafia, drogue, meurtres
J’avais beaucoup aimé la série « Iron Outlaws MC » et j’avais hâte de découvrir son spin-off qui suit le même MC mais cette fois au Colorado avec un groupe différent. Pour ce premier tome, on découvre l’histoire de Wraith, le sergent du MC, et de Raven, une jeune serveuse qui vient d’arriver dans cette petite ville perdue du Colorado pour prendre un nouveau départ. Rien ne les destine à être ensemble. Wraith a perdu sa femme et sa fille deux ans plus tôt de façon extrêmement violente et n’a toujours pas fait son deuil. Raven est là pour fuir les ennuis causés par son mari et prendre un nouveau départ avec son fils de cinq ans. Mais dès leur première rencontre, il y a quelque chose entre eux, même s’ils ne sont pas près à le reconnaître. Wraith fait tout pour se tenir loin de Raven et son fils mais ses instincts de protection prennent le dessus quand ils sont en difficulté. Et quand c’est le danger qui vient les trouver, Wraith va devoir faire un choix qui changera sa vie à jamais…
J’ai adoré ce premier tome. Les personnages sont incroyablement touchants.
Wraith tente de se remettre comme il peut du traumatisme extrêmement violent causé par la perte de sa femme et sa fille. On sent à quel point c’est dur pour lui de faire son deuil. Il a peur d’avancer pour ne pas trahir leur mémoire et se raccroche à la vengeance pour ne pas les oublier. Mais Raven va l’aider à avancer et comprendre bien des choses. Malgré les actes violents qu’il peut commettre pour le MC, Wraith peut se montrer aussi incroyablement doux et tendre avec Raven et son fils Fen. Certes il n’agit pas toujours bien et fait des erreurs mais il est prêt à tout pour eux et j’ai adoré la dualité de ce personnage.
J’ai tout autant aimé Raven. Elle vient d’arriver dans une petite ville perdue du Colorado pour se protéger elle et son fils des actes de son mari, dont elle n’avait jamais vu venir la trahison. Elle a du mal à faire confiance mais quelque chose l’attire chez Wraith. Elle ne se laisse pas marcher sur les pieds quand il agit mal et prend de plus en plus confiance en elle au fur et à mesure de l’histoire, malgré tout ce par quoi elle est passée.
Leur relation est vraiment aussi forte que touchante et pleine d’émotions.
La trame est très intéressante avec du suspens, de l’émotion, de l’humour et pas mal d’action et de rebondissements. Les thèmes abordés sont durs mais cela amène beaucoup à l’histoire. J’ai adoré découvrir les nouveaux personnages de ce MC et j’ai tout particulièrement aimé Smoke et Atom qui sont proches de Wraith. J’ai eu un peu de mal avec Butcher, le président ce chapitre du MC. Il est un peu trop brute pour moi pour le moment mais je changerai peut-être d’avis au cours de ma découverte de la série qui sait…
En tout cas j’ai très hâte de lire le prochain tome qui doit paraître en mars prochain et portera sur Atom, ainsi que sur Ember, la fille de Butcher. Je ne sais pas pourquoi mais je sens que ça risque de faire des étincelles…
Si vous aimez les romances à suspens dans les milieux bikers, je ne peux que vous recommander ce roman (ainsi que la série « Iron Outlaws MC« ).
https://kingdomofwordsblog.wordpress....
J’avais beaucoup aimé la série « Iron Outlaws MC » et j’avais hâte de découvrir son spin-off qui suit le même MC mais cette fois au Colorado avec un groupe différent. Pour ce premier tome, on découvre l’histoire de Wraith, le sergent du MC, et de Raven, une jeune serveuse qui vient d’arriver dans cette petite ville perdue du Colorado pour prendre un nouveau départ. Rien ne les destine à être ensemble. Wraith a perdu sa femme et sa fille deux ans plus tôt de façon extrêmement violente et n’a toujours pas fait son deuil. Raven est là pour fuir les ennuis causés par son mari et prendre un nouveau départ avec son fils de cinq ans. Mais dès leur première rencontre, il y a quelque chose entre eux, même s’ils ne sont pas près à le reconnaître. Wraith fait tout pour se tenir loin de Raven et son fils mais ses instincts de protection prennent le dessus quand ils sont en difficulté. Et quand c’est le danger qui vient les trouver, Wraith va devoir faire un choix qui changera sa vie à jamais…
J’ai adoré ce premier tome. Les personnages sont incroyablement touchants.
Wraith tente de se remettre comme il peut du traumatisme extrêmement violent causé par la perte de sa femme et sa fille. On sent à quel point c’est dur pour lui de faire son deuil. Il a peur d’avancer pour ne pas trahir leur mémoire et se raccroche à la vengeance pour ne pas les oublier. Mais Raven va l’aider à avancer et comprendre bien des choses. Malgré les actes violents qu’il peut commettre pour le MC, Wraith peut se montrer aussi incroyablement doux et tendre avec Raven et son fils Fen. Certes il n’agit pas toujours bien et fait des erreurs mais il est prêt à tout pour eux et j’ai adoré la dualité de ce personnage.
J’ai tout autant aimé Raven. Elle vient d’arriver dans une petite ville perdue du Colorado pour se protéger elle et son fils des actes de son mari, dont elle n’avait jamais vu venir la trahison. Elle a du mal à faire confiance mais quelque chose l’attire chez Wraith. Elle ne se laisse pas marcher sur les pieds quand il agit mal et prend de plus en plus confiance en elle au fur et à mesure de l’histoire, malgré tout ce par quoi elle est passée.
Leur relation est vraiment aussi forte que touchante et pleine d’émotions.
La trame est très intéressante avec du suspens, de l’émotion, de l’humour et pas mal d’action et de rebondissements. Les thèmes abordés sont durs mais cela amène beaucoup à l’histoire. J’ai adoré découvrir les nouveaux personnages de ce MC et j’ai tout particulièrement aimé Smoke et Atom qui sont proches de Wraith. J’ai eu un peu de mal avec Butcher, le président ce chapitre du MC. Il est un peu trop brute pour moi pour le moment mais je changerai peut-être d’avis au cours de ma découverte de la série qui sait…
En tout cas j’ai très hâte de lire le prochain tome qui doit paraître en mars prochain et portera sur Atom, ainsi que sur Ember, la fille de Butcher. Je ne sais pas pourquoi mais je sens que ça risque de faire des étincelles…
Si vous aimez les romances à suspens dans les milieux bikers, je ne peux que vous recommander ce roman (ainsi que la série « Iron Outlaws MC« ).
https://kingdomofwordsblog.wordpress....
January 22, 2025
THE GRIEF WE HOLD is the first instalment in S. Cole’s contemporary, adult IRON OUTLAWS MC: COLORADO erotic, MC romance series-a spin off from the author’s IRON OUTLAWS MC. This is SAA Wraith aka Axel, and single mother/waitress Raven’s story line.
NOTE: Due to the nature of the story line premise, there may be triggers for more sensitive readers.
Told from dual first person perspectives (Raven and Wraith) THE GRIEF WE HOLD follows in the wake of the murder of Wraith’s wife and daughter. Two years earlier, in an act of vengeance, the Iron Outlaws MC was targeted, killing Wraith’s wife and child in the process. In the ensuing time, Wraith has made it his mission to exact retribution on the people he holds responsible but the arrival of Raven in Colorado, stirs something deep within our story line hero. Raven, and her five year old son Fen are on the run, hiding from a man whose own life is spiralling out of control but Raven is determined to protect her son at all costs, even if that means running again if she is found again. Wraith is determined to become guardian and protector of Raven and Fen, but there is a target on Raven’s back, and more than one person is taking aim at our story line heroine.
The world building follows several paths including Wraith’s inability to let go of the past but saying that, someone else is determined to keep Wraith from moving forward, and in doing so threatens the livelihood of our story line heroine. As Raven struggles to move on from the darkness, Wraith continues to fall back into the nightmare that was.
The relationship between Wraith and Raven is one of immediate attraction but Raven refuses to bow down to a man she sees as nothing but trouble. Respect has to be earned, and in this, Raven finds herself at odds with actions of our hero, a man who struggles to move forward. The $ex scenes are provocative and intense.
There is a large ensemble cast of energetic and colorful secondary and supporting characters. We are introduced to the members of the Iron Outlaws MC: Colorado including the president Butcher, VP Grudge, enforcer Atom, treasurer Catfish, road captain Smoke ,mechanic Dice, as well as several prospects.
THE GRIEF WE HOLD is a story of betrayal and vengeance, grief and loss, secrets and lies, fear and misunderstanding, acceptance and love. The premise is dramatic and emotional; the romance is fated and arousing with scenes of voyeurism; the characters are desperate and animated.
copy supplied for review
NOTE: Due to the nature of the story line premise, there may be triggers for more sensitive readers.
Told from dual first person perspectives (Raven and Wraith) THE GRIEF WE HOLD follows in the wake of the murder of Wraith’s wife and daughter. Two years earlier, in an act of vengeance, the Iron Outlaws MC was targeted, killing Wraith’s wife and child in the process. In the ensuing time, Wraith has made it his mission to exact retribution on the people he holds responsible but the arrival of Raven in Colorado, stirs something deep within our story line hero. Raven, and her five year old son Fen are on the run, hiding from a man whose own life is spiralling out of control but Raven is determined to protect her son at all costs, even if that means running again if she is found again. Wraith is determined to become guardian and protector of Raven and Fen, but there is a target on Raven’s back, and more than one person is taking aim at our story line heroine.
The world building follows several paths including Wraith’s inability to let go of the past but saying that, someone else is determined to keep Wraith from moving forward, and in doing so threatens the livelihood of our story line heroine. As Raven struggles to move on from the darkness, Wraith continues to fall back into the nightmare that was.
The relationship between Wraith and Raven is one of immediate attraction but Raven refuses to bow down to a man she sees as nothing but trouble. Respect has to be earned, and in this, Raven finds herself at odds with actions of our hero, a man who struggles to move forward. The $ex scenes are provocative and intense.
There is a large ensemble cast of energetic and colorful secondary and supporting characters. We are introduced to the members of the Iron Outlaws MC: Colorado including the president Butcher, VP Grudge, enforcer Atom, treasurer Catfish, road captain Smoke ,mechanic Dice, as well as several prospects.
THE GRIEF WE HOLD is a story of betrayal and vengeance, grief and loss, secrets and lies, fear and misunderstanding, acceptance and love. The premise is dramatic and emotional; the romance is fated and arousing with scenes of voyeurism; the characters are desperate and animated.
copy supplied for review
January 25, 2025
Absolutely did NOT disappoint. I wanted a Scarlett Cole MC romance and it’s exactly what I got.
This book id gritty, emotional, dark, deliciously spicy and also really romantic. There is also lots of suspense, action and best of all loads of hot bikers and strong beautiful women that make you want more. I can’t wait to see this series unfold and grow like the original Iron Outlaws series. I loved the cameo they had in this books, I missed those guys (especially Niro and Bates).
Like the blurb tells us, Wraith (Axel) lost his young family 2 years back and since then he’s been spiraling, overcome by grief and the desire for revenge.
It’s the protector in him, which starts to come out again when the meets Raven, and that starts tugging him back to life. It’s really beautiful how he just can’t help himself but look after Raven and her son Fen, although in the beginning he’s griping about it every step of the way.
I also found really beautiful the glimpse we get of him as husband and father before tragedy struck in his life. I liked how this aspect was captured, how it did not take over the story but was used to add essential details to it. It was masterfully done.
I loved Raven, loved her strength and determination to her son and stand up for herself. She’s been abandoned by her husband, along with her son, to a dangerous situation, but she’s smart, resourceful and quick to take action to protect herself and Fen.
When she meets Wraith, she worries that once again she’s attracted to the wrong man. He’s hot, then cold, can’t make up his mind but she’s no pushover and quickly puts him in his place.
Seeing Wraith come to his senses and decide Raven (or Blue how he calls her) and Fen are now his family is one of the best moments in the book. On the other hand it’s also heartwarming when Raven starts to realize Wraith will always protect her and Fen, and that he’s putting them first. Once they get over their hang-ups they are both all in and the open honest communication policy they keep to is quite inspiring.
I loved this book. I’m so glad we get more Iron Outlaws stories. This book has lots of heart thumping action and suspense. The spice is on point and really HOT. The side characters make one excited for next books in the series.
It’s been less than one year since I discovered Scarlett Cole, but there is a reason she became one of my favorite authors from the first one I read.
Bring one more Iron Outlaws.
This book id gritty, emotional, dark, deliciously spicy and also really romantic. There is also lots of suspense, action and best of all loads of hot bikers and strong beautiful women that make you want more. I can’t wait to see this series unfold and grow like the original Iron Outlaws series. I loved the cameo they had in this books, I missed those guys (especially Niro and Bates).
Like the blurb tells us, Wraith (Axel) lost his young family 2 years back and since then he’s been spiraling, overcome by grief and the desire for revenge.
It’s the protector in him, which starts to come out again when the meets Raven, and that starts tugging him back to life. It’s really beautiful how he just can’t help himself but look after Raven and her son Fen, although in the beginning he’s griping about it every step of the way.
I also found really beautiful the glimpse we get of him as husband and father before tragedy struck in his life. I liked how this aspect was captured, how it did not take over the story but was used to add essential details to it. It was masterfully done.
I loved Raven, loved her strength and determination to her son and stand up for herself. She’s been abandoned by her husband, along with her son, to a dangerous situation, but she’s smart, resourceful and quick to take action to protect herself and Fen.
When she meets Wraith, she worries that once again she’s attracted to the wrong man. He’s hot, then cold, can’t make up his mind but she’s no pushover and quickly puts him in his place.
Seeing Wraith come to his senses and decide Raven (or Blue how he calls her) and Fen are now his family is one of the best moments in the book. On the other hand it’s also heartwarming when Raven starts to realize Wraith will always protect her and Fen, and that he’s putting them first. Once they get over their hang-ups they are both all in and the open honest communication policy they keep to is quite inspiring.
I loved this book. I’m so glad we get more Iron Outlaws stories. This book has lots of heart thumping action and suspense. The spice is on point and really HOT. The side characters make one excited for next books in the series.
It’s been less than one year since I discovered Scarlett Cole, but there is a reason she became one of my favorite authors from the first one I read.
Bring one more Iron Outlaws.
January 17, 2025
Hold onto your hats, readers, there’s a new crop of Iron Outlaws in the town and all I can say is WOW, WOW, WOW! S. Cole has knocked me on my butt again with an amazing book in The Grief We Hold. 5 stars can’t do this story justice. It’s hands down an unputdownable read.
Going into this book, I was already excited to meet Wraith and the new Iron Outlaws. I had high expectations about this new series and they were not only met, but surpassed – stomped on and blown to smithereens. THIS is how you kick off a spin-off series.
Fair warning, Wraith will steal your heart and make you happy he did so. I fell hard for the Outlaw widower. He was nothing like I was expecting and everything I wanted in the end. There is so much depth to who he is you can get lost in getting to know him and watching him fight falling for his worthy heroine and her son in Raven and Fen. It’s so worth it though.
You will love Raven and Fen. Yes, they come as a package, but they are also two of the most wonderful characters you will read. Fen especially owns my heart after this story. I loved Raven; seeing her blossom and grow as she finds her feet after a horrible marriage, and how she mothers Fen so authentically while navigating a relationship with Wraith is so wonderfully written. I can only describe it as chef's kiss writing.
You will lose yourself as I did in the romance between Wraith and Raven, and by extension Fen. Seeing both overcome their past, seeing what can be their future, grow and become better versions of themselves, all while dealing with baddies out for revenge was a true pleasure to read.
I laughed, gasped, and cried more than once while thoroughly enjoying every word of this book. I am already eager to read the rest of the series. The author has created a new world that has sucked me in and left me desperate for more. We will meet new faces that we will get to know better over the series, with some familiar ones making appearances to smooth the transition from one Iron Outlaw chapter to another.
I have zero chance of truly getting across how good this book is. All I will say is strap in for a unforgettable ride full of surprises, hot biker cowboys and the women who love them. This is an author who has found her stride and I can’t wait to see what’s next.
I read an arc of this book and will purchase a copy on release day.
Going into this book, I was already excited to meet Wraith and the new Iron Outlaws. I had high expectations about this new series and they were not only met, but surpassed – stomped on and blown to smithereens. THIS is how you kick off a spin-off series.
Fair warning, Wraith will steal your heart and make you happy he did so. I fell hard for the Outlaw widower. He was nothing like I was expecting and everything I wanted in the end. There is so much depth to who he is you can get lost in getting to know him and watching him fight falling for his worthy heroine and her son in Raven and Fen. It’s so worth it though.
You will love Raven and Fen. Yes, they come as a package, but they are also two of the most wonderful characters you will read. Fen especially owns my heart after this story. I loved Raven; seeing her blossom and grow as she finds her feet after a horrible marriage, and how she mothers Fen so authentically while navigating a relationship with Wraith is so wonderfully written. I can only describe it as chef's kiss writing.
You will lose yourself as I did in the romance between Wraith and Raven, and by extension Fen. Seeing both overcome their past, seeing what can be their future, grow and become better versions of themselves, all while dealing with baddies out for revenge was a true pleasure to read.
I laughed, gasped, and cried more than once while thoroughly enjoying every word of this book. I am already eager to read the rest of the series. The author has created a new world that has sucked me in and left me desperate for more. We will meet new faces that we will get to know better over the series, with some familiar ones making appearances to smooth the transition from one Iron Outlaw chapter to another.
I have zero chance of truly getting across how good this book is. All I will say is strap in for a unforgettable ride full of surprises, hot biker cowboys and the women who love them. This is an author who has found her stride and I can’t wait to see what’s next.
I read an arc of this book and will purchase a copy on release day.
August 3, 2025
The Grief We Hold by S. Cole kicks off a new motorcycle club series with a solid emotional premise and a broken, broody hero who steals the show. Wraith (aka Axel) is the standout here—his grief, growth, and journey from a one-night stand to something deeper felt genuine and earned. I appreciated his depth and vulnerability as he wrestled with the loss of his wife and daughter while slowly opening up again.
That said, the execution fell a bit short in a few places for me. One of the biggest issues was the transitions between chapters. At times they felt jarring or disconnected—especially when it suddenly shifted to Wraith working on a ranch that hadn’t really been established earlier. The story tells us the club is on land owned by a member’s family, but it’s not made clear that the club actively works the ranch. That detail just gets dropped in, which made it feel out of place.
Raven, the FMC, is introduced as someone escaping a toxic relationship, but I struggled to feel that trauma reflected in her actions. She jumps into things with Wraith surprisingly fast, and her emotional arc felt underdeveloped—especially next to how layered Wraith was. I wanted more nuance, more inner conflict, more healing.
The supporting cast, particularly the other MC members, also lacked consistency. They were initially portrayed as disrespectful and rough—borderline misogynistic—but their behavior toward Raven quickly contradicted that setup. It left me unsure of how I was supposed to feel about them. Similarly, Wraith’s former mother-in-law, Ma, felt wildly inconsistent. One minute she’s doting on Raven and cautioning Wraith to be gentle with her, and the next she’s turning on Raven completely. The dynamic between those three felt rushed and emotionally forced.
Finally, the main conflict had potential but missed a golden opportunity. Raven’s toxic ex is involved with the bratva—coincidentally, the same bratva that stole from the club. That thread was there but never really crossed over or paid off in a meaningful way, which felt like a missed chance for a more cohesive plot.
All that said, Wraith’s development was strong enough to keep me engaged, and I’m curious to see how the rest of the series shapes up. Here’s hoping the next installment gives the supporting cast more consistent arcs and smooths out the structural bumps.
That said, the execution fell a bit short in a few places for me. One of the biggest issues was the transitions between chapters. At times they felt jarring or disconnected—especially when it suddenly shifted to Wraith working on a ranch that hadn’t really been established earlier. The story tells us the club is on land owned by a member’s family, but it’s not made clear that the club actively works the ranch. That detail just gets dropped in, which made it feel out of place.
Raven, the FMC, is introduced as someone escaping a toxic relationship, but I struggled to feel that trauma reflected in her actions. She jumps into things with Wraith surprisingly fast, and her emotional arc felt underdeveloped—especially next to how layered Wraith was. I wanted more nuance, more inner conflict, more healing.
The supporting cast, particularly the other MC members, also lacked consistency. They were initially portrayed as disrespectful and rough—borderline misogynistic—but their behavior toward Raven quickly contradicted that setup. It left me unsure of how I was supposed to feel about them. Similarly, Wraith’s former mother-in-law, Ma, felt wildly inconsistent. One minute she’s doting on Raven and cautioning Wraith to be gentle with her, and the next she’s turning on Raven completely. The dynamic between those three felt rushed and emotionally forced.
Finally, the main conflict had potential but missed a golden opportunity. Raven’s toxic ex is involved with the bratva—coincidentally, the same bratva that stole from the club. That thread was there but never really crossed over or paid off in a meaningful way, which felt like a missed chance for a more cohesive plot.
All that said, Wraith’s development was strong enough to keep me engaged, and I’m curious to see how the rest of the series shapes up. Here’s hoping the next installment gives the supporting cast more consistent arcs and smooths out the structural bumps.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 25, 2025
I recently finished The Grief We Hold, and I have to say, it was an emotional rollercoaster that left me both satisfied and yearning for more. This book is the first in the Iron Outlaws MC Colorado series, and it beautifully intertwines themes of loss, resilience, and unexpected love against the backdrop of a motorcycle club.
From the start, I was drawn into Raven's world. She’s a single mother trying to escape her troubled past and create a safe life for her son in a small Colorado town. When she crosses paths with Wraith, a grief-stricken biker haunted by his own tragic losses, I felt the tension and chemistry between them immediately. Their journey from initial resentment to a deep emotional connection was captivating. I found myself rooting for them as they navigated their fears and fought against external threats.
Cole’s character development really stood out to me. Raven is portrayed as strong yet vulnerable, making her relatable and inspiring. Wraith’s transformation from a brooding figure into a protective partner added depth to the story. The dynamic between them—especially the "grumpy/sunshine" trope—was executed perfectly. I loved watching Wraith's tough exterior slowly melt away in the warmth of Raven's spirit; their chemistry was palpable.
Cole's writing is evocative and immersive. She has a talent for drawing readers into the characters' struggles and triumphs. The balance between intense moments and lighter interactions provided just the right amount of relief from the heavier themes of grief and loss. The pacing felt just right, allowing for character growth while maintaining enough tension to keep me on my toes.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed The Grief We Hold. It’s a captivating read that resonates with anyone who appreciates romantic suspense and motorcycle club stories. Scarlett Cole has crafted a tale that combines heart-wrenching emotion with thrilling elements, making it a worthy addition to my bookshelf. I’m giving this book a solid 4-star rating for its compelling characters and emotional depth, and I’m definitely looking forward to more from the Iron Outlaws MC series!
From the start, I was drawn into Raven's world. She’s a single mother trying to escape her troubled past and create a safe life for her son in a small Colorado town. When she crosses paths with Wraith, a grief-stricken biker haunted by his own tragic losses, I felt the tension and chemistry between them immediately. Their journey from initial resentment to a deep emotional connection was captivating. I found myself rooting for them as they navigated their fears and fought against external threats.
Cole’s character development really stood out to me. Raven is portrayed as strong yet vulnerable, making her relatable and inspiring. Wraith’s transformation from a brooding figure into a protective partner added depth to the story. The dynamic between them—especially the "grumpy/sunshine" trope—was executed perfectly. I loved watching Wraith's tough exterior slowly melt away in the warmth of Raven's spirit; their chemistry was palpable.
Cole's writing is evocative and immersive. She has a talent for drawing readers into the characters' struggles and triumphs. The balance between intense moments and lighter interactions provided just the right amount of relief from the heavier themes of grief and loss. The pacing felt just right, allowing for character growth while maintaining enough tension to keep me on my toes.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed The Grief We Hold. It’s a captivating read that resonates with anyone who appreciates romantic suspense and motorcycle club stories. Scarlett Cole has crafted a tale that combines heart-wrenching emotion with thrilling elements, making it a worthy addition to my bookshelf. I’m giving this book a solid 4-star rating for its compelling characters and emotional depth, and I’m definitely looking forward to more from the Iron Outlaws MC series!
January 12, 2025
The Grief We Hold is the first book in this new series by S. Cole featuring the Iron Outlaws MC Colorado Chapter, and what an incredible start to the series this is!! I can hand on heart say that the original Iron Outlaws series (New Jersey Chapter) is the best MC series I have ever read. It therefore goes without saying that my expectations were very high before I started reading Wraith’s story, and I am delighted to say that every single one of them was met with ease.
A new Chapter brings new club members to get to know which is exciting. This first book shares Wraith’s story - he is the Chapter’s Sergeant at Arms. This is an emotional story. The title of his book indicates grieving, and I thought the author perfectly showed the agony and turmoil of not only losing someone close, but also the process of moving on.
Raven and her son Fen, move to Colorado fleeing the danger they have found themselves in. I absolutely adore them both. I love the relationship that they share. They each bring something of consequence to this narrative. It would be hard for anyone to not like Raven and Fen, and their journey with Wraith is special to witness.
Perfectly written using dual POVs of Wraith and Raven, I found that I completely understood the thoughts and feelings of both characters throughout their journey. This story brought out many different emotions in me which I loved. The twists and turns I thoroughly enjoyed and I never anticipated what was going to happen next. I felt that every character played their part in this narrative superbly.
I am well-versed in handing over my heart to each and every one of the New Jersey brothers whilst reading their stories and I sense that the same will happen in Colorado too. You are not only going to fall for Wraith but be left desperate to learn more about his MC brothers. I highly recommend The Grief We Hold to you to read.
5 stars
A new Chapter brings new club members to get to know which is exciting. This first book shares Wraith’s story - he is the Chapter’s Sergeant at Arms. This is an emotional story. The title of his book indicates grieving, and I thought the author perfectly showed the agony and turmoil of not only losing someone close, but also the process of moving on.
Raven and her son Fen, move to Colorado fleeing the danger they have found themselves in. I absolutely adore them both. I love the relationship that they share. They each bring something of consequence to this narrative. It would be hard for anyone to not like Raven and Fen, and their journey with Wraith is special to witness.
Perfectly written using dual POVs of Wraith and Raven, I found that I completely understood the thoughts and feelings of both characters throughout their journey. This story brought out many different emotions in me which I loved. The twists and turns I thoroughly enjoyed and I never anticipated what was going to happen next. I felt that every character played their part in this narrative superbly.
I am well-versed in handing over my heart to each and every one of the New Jersey brothers whilst reading their stories and I sense that the same will happen in Colorado too. You are not only going to fall for Wraith but be left desperate to learn more about his MC brothers. I highly recommend The Grief We Hold to you to read.
5 stars
January 21, 2025
The Colorado Chapter of the Iron Outlaws MC is proving to be a fantastic addition to the original series. One book in and I am totally invested in the characters and their futures. (Except Butch. He rubbed me the wrong way at first lol). In this book you will get a peek at a few of the OG club members who add a little flavor and we are also introduced to all new and interesting characters.
This is book one and is about Wraith (Axel), Raven and Fen. Their story will pull all your emotions out one right after the other two or three times throughout the book. I thought I was prepared but nope – was not.
Wraith swore revenge for the death of his family and his club has indulged him in this quest. After two years have passed, Wraith encounters Raven and is immediately struck by her. She is the opposite of everything he knows but he cannot ignore the draw to her. But he has demons and is not ready to let go.
Raven and her son are on the run from an evil situation. Landing in a small town with her son, she was surprised to gain a job and place to live instantly. But that is the last of the luck she will have. Once she and Wraith cross paths they begin a tit for tat relationship that keep them at odds. But the more time they spend together, they realize hope is possible. Before that happens, they must deal with an enemy that is after Raven, her son, and the club.
Now it is not all gloom, doom, and melancholy. I need to tell you that this book is sizzling hot! The chemistry these two have is just thigh squeezing slap a a😀😀 full of intensity. I mean boundaries man!!! I had to remember to breathe when they finally gave in to their feelings. Jeesh!!!
You must read this book. The side characters were great and added some quality banter along with the found family vibe. Scarlett’s writing is always on point, and you will never go wrong with her.
This is book one and is about Wraith (Axel), Raven and Fen. Their story will pull all your emotions out one right after the other two or three times throughout the book. I thought I was prepared but nope – was not.
Wraith swore revenge for the death of his family and his club has indulged him in this quest. After two years have passed, Wraith encounters Raven and is immediately struck by her. She is the opposite of everything he knows but he cannot ignore the draw to her. But he has demons and is not ready to let go.
Raven and her son are on the run from an evil situation. Landing in a small town with her son, she was surprised to gain a job and place to live instantly. But that is the last of the luck she will have. Once she and Wraith cross paths they begin a tit for tat relationship that keep them at odds. But the more time they spend together, they realize hope is possible. Before that happens, they must deal with an enemy that is after Raven, her son, and the club.
Now it is not all gloom, doom, and melancholy. I need to tell you that this book is sizzling hot! The chemistry these two have is just thigh squeezing slap a a😀😀 full of intensity. I mean boundaries man!!! I had to remember to breathe when they finally gave in to their feelings. Jeesh!!!
You must read this book. The side characters were great and added some quality banter along with the found family vibe. Scarlett’s writing is always on point, and you will never go wrong with her.
March 31, 2025
Such a gripping story. I was up late last night reading it and had to force myself to put it down so I could get some sleep. Wraith and Raven (amazing names, by the way) are a perfect pair. They each have traumas from their past that they are trying to overcome.
Wraith fights their attraction at first, believing it's a betrayal to his late wife and daughter. Eventually, he realises that Raven could be the very thing he didn't know he had needed, salvation and a second chance at happiness. Wraith comes to recognize and accept that loving Raven and Fen isn't the same as replacing or forgetting about Hallie and Lottie. He can love and remember Hallie and Lottie while also opening his heart to someone new, a new family.
Raven tries to resist getting close to Wraith, believing that his similarities to her ex-husband are too much for her to overcome. Why should she be the frog that was too stupid to get out of the pot of boiling water before it dies? Eventually, she notices the differences between Wraith the Biker and Axel the man. The way he cares for and protects those around him. The way he puts her and Fen before himself and others. The way he pushes her boundaries and urges her to be completely open and 100% honest with him, and he reciprocates those qualities in kind.
Even though they finally manage to find a balance with one another, the dangers from their pasts emerge from beneath the rocks they had been hiding under, but the brothers were there to help, protect, and support the couple as they fought for the future they had both come to want and need.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this story. I laughed, cried, and even might have screamed out loud a time or two. I'm eager to read the next book, which is about Atom, the club's playboy enforcer.
Well done to the author!
Wraith fights their attraction at first, believing it's a betrayal to his late wife and daughter. Eventually, he realises that Raven could be the very thing he didn't know he had needed, salvation and a second chance at happiness. Wraith comes to recognize and accept that loving Raven and Fen isn't the same as replacing or forgetting about Hallie and Lottie. He can love and remember Hallie and Lottie while also opening his heart to someone new, a new family.
Raven tries to resist getting close to Wraith, believing that his similarities to her ex-husband are too much for her to overcome. Why should she be the frog that was too stupid to get out of the pot of boiling water before it dies? Eventually, she notices the differences between Wraith the Biker and Axel the man. The way he cares for and protects those around him. The way he puts her and Fen before himself and others. The way he pushes her boundaries and urges her to be completely open and 100% honest with him, and he reciprocates those qualities in kind.
Even though they finally manage to find a balance with one another, the dangers from their pasts emerge from beneath the rocks they had been hiding under, but the brothers were there to help, protect, and support the couple as they fought for the future they had both come to want and need.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this story. I laughed, cried, and even might have screamed out loud a time or two. I'm eager to read the next book, which is about Atom, the club's playboy enforcer.
Well done to the author!
January 22, 2025
Scarlett Cole writes the best MC romance and once again delivers with this exceptional new chapter in the Iron Outlaws MC series.
This one is set in a small town in Colorado and featuring a whole new group of complex, gorgeous cowboy bikers to swoon over.
Starting with the sexy, grief-stricken sergeant at arms Wraith, who suffered an unimaginable loss two years ago when his wife Hallie and three-year-old daughter Lottie were murdered.
And since that day, Wraith has become a shell, functioning with only one purpose in mind: to kill everyone involved in their deaths. To the detriment of himself and the MC.
However, things start to change when he meets new to town Raven and her son Fen and receives a little advice from a familiar face.
Although Wraith does desperately try to keep his distance from Raven and Fen. But something about them calls to him and when danger strikes the outlaws. Wraith's first thought is to keep them safe much to the annoyance of his mother-in-law Margie and a few of his fellow outlaws.
But Wraith is also fighting his feelings and struggling with guilt, until another attack has him realizing it's time to move on and build a future with Raven and Fen.
Yet, danger is never far away when you're an outlaw, and all Raven wants is to do is live peacefully and keep Fen safe.
But is that really possible when you fall in love with a one percenter?
And with really likable characters, emotion, angst, danger, humour and off the charts sex. The Grief We Hold is a beautifully raw, real, relatable and captivating read. That I absolutely devoured and would happily recommend to all.
My thanks to Scarlett Cole and Wildfire Marketing for the opportunity to read an early copy of The Grief We Hold. ☺️
This one is set in a small town in Colorado and featuring a whole new group of complex, gorgeous cowboy bikers to swoon over.
Starting with the sexy, grief-stricken sergeant at arms Wraith, who suffered an unimaginable loss two years ago when his wife Hallie and three-year-old daughter Lottie were murdered.
And since that day, Wraith has become a shell, functioning with only one purpose in mind: to kill everyone involved in their deaths. To the detriment of himself and the MC.
However, things start to change when he meets new to town Raven and her son Fen and receives a little advice from a familiar face.
Although Wraith does desperately try to keep his distance from Raven and Fen. But something about them calls to him and when danger strikes the outlaws. Wraith's first thought is to keep them safe much to the annoyance of his mother-in-law Margie and a few of his fellow outlaws.
But Wraith is also fighting his feelings and struggling with guilt, until another attack has him realizing it's time to move on and build a future with Raven and Fen.
Yet, danger is never far away when you're an outlaw, and all Raven wants is to do is live peacefully and keep Fen safe.
But is that really possible when you fall in love with a one percenter?
And with really likable characters, emotion, angst, danger, humour and off the charts sex. The Grief We Hold is a beautifully raw, real, relatable and captivating read. That I absolutely devoured and would happily recommend to all.
My thanks to Scarlett Cole and Wildfire Marketing for the opportunity to read an early copy of The Grief We Hold. ☺️
February 5, 2025
Raven et son fils Fen sont en fuite. Ils arrivent dans une petite ville du Colorado. La propriétaire du diner la prend sous son aile et en seulement quelques heures elle trouve un boulot, un lieu ou vivre et Fen une place dans une école maternelle. Au diner elle rencontre le biker Wraith qui est brisé depuis le meurtre de sa femme et de sa fille, 2 ans plus tôt. Il ne vit que pour venger ses femmes. Il sent tout de suite que Raven cache des secret et qu'elle risque d'apporter des problèmes dans son havre de paix...
Attention à bien lire les avertissements avant de vous lancer. Je savais que ce livre allait être spectaculaire et j'ai été comblée. Je dois avouer que le prologue m'a mise à genou et mon cœur à bien souffert. Wraith est accablé par la perte de ses proches et ne vit que pour retrouver les commanditeurs de l'attaque qui leur a couté la vie quand il rencontre Raven. Mais ses instincts protecteurs prennent le dessus quand il se rend compte de sa situation. Raven et Fen sont attachants, apportent de la lumière dans les ténèbres de Wraith. Scarlett Cole aborde plusieurs thèmes très bien menés que je vous laisserai découvrir. Ce livre lance un nouveau chapitre des Iron Outlaws, ceux du Colorado et ils sont assez originaux puisqu'ils vivent dans de grands espaces en étant Rancher. L'auteure nous régale en amenant les Outlaws du New Jersey et nous avons une visibilité sur ce qu'il s'est passé après le 9eme tome. Vraiment si vous lisez en anglais je ne peux que vous recommander mille fois cette série qui est extraordinaire et une de mes sagas préférées sur les bikers. En plus, tous les tomes sont disponibles sur l'abonnement kindle.
Attention à bien lire les avertissements avant de vous lancer. Je savais que ce livre allait être spectaculaire et j'ai été comblée. Je dois avouer que le prologue m'a mise à genou et mon cœur à bien souffert. Wraith est accablé par la perte de ses proches et ne vit que pour retrouver les commanditeurs de l'attaque qui leur a couté la vie quand il rencontre Raven. Mais ses instincts protecteurs prennent le dessus quand il se rend compte de sa situation. Raven et Fen sont attachants, apportent de la lumière dans les ténèbres de Wraith. Scarlett Cole aborde plusieurs thèmes très bien menés que je vous laisserai découvrir. Ce livre lance un nouveau chapitre des Iron Outlaws, ceux du Colorado et ils sont assez originaux puisqu'ils vivent dans de grands espaces en étant Rancher. L'auteure nous régale en amenant les Outlaws du New Jersey et nous avons une visibilité sur ce qu'il s'est passé après le 9eme tome. Vraiment si vous lisez en anglais je ne peux que vous recommander mille fois cette série qui est extraordinaire et une de mes sagas préférées sur les bikers. En plus, tous les tomes sont disponibles sur l'abonnement kindle.
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