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Greenstone Security #4
Chaos Remains
My story isn’t unique.
Isn’t rare.
Which is, I guess, what makes it so sad.
The story about a girl who falls in love with the wrong man, lured by tender gazes, devoted promises and gentle touches. The gentle touches disappear and she’s held captive with ugly insults and brutal beatings.
It’s common, this story. My past.
I can’t change the past.
I wouldn’t even if I could.
The ugliness of my past gave me a future worth living for.
Worth dying for.
It gave me a reason to fight. To escape.
That was my mistake. Thinking girls like me could have a choice.
I wasn’t given many promises in my life that weren’t broken, but chaos is a constant promise, always kept, never broken.
He comes amongst the chaos. Amongst the ugly.
He doesn’t promise a way out. He definitely doesn’t promise peace. But he gives me the opportunity for a different ending to my story.
Isn’t rare.
Which is, I guess, what makes it so sad.
The story about a girl who falls in love with the wrong man, lured by tender gazes, devoted promises and gentle touches. The gentle touches disappear and she’s held captive with ugly insults and brutal beatings.
It’s common, this story. My past.
I can’t change the past.
I wouldn’t even if I could.
The ugliness of my past gave me a future worth living for.
Worth dying for.
It gave me a reason to fight. To escape.
That was my mistake. Thinking girls like me could have a choice.
I wasn’t given many promises in my life that weren’t broken, but chaos is a constant promise, always kept, never broken.
He comes amongst the chaos. Amongst the ugly.
He doesn’t promise a way out. He definitely doesn’t promise peace. But he gives me the opportunity for a different ending to my story.
417 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 29, 2019
193 people are currently reading
841 people want to read
About the author
Anne Malcom
56 books3,935 followersAnne Malcom has been an avid reader since before she can remember, her mother responsible for her book addiction. It started with magical journeys into the world of Hogwarts and Middle Earth, then as she grew up her reading tastes grew with her. Her obsession with books and romance novels in particular gave Anne the opportunity to find another passion, writing. Finding writing about alpha males and happily ever afters more fun than reading about them, Anne is not about to stop any time soon.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 148 reviews
September 6, 2019
Anne is amazing. Really, that is all this review needs to say. But since that doesn't tell you anything about the book and blah blah... here goes.
This is one of my favorites of Anne's. I thought the heroine, in particular, was incredibly engaging, the hero was just the right kind of overprotective alpha, the cast of side characters had a lot to add to the story. To be honest, it gave me old school KA vibes in a lot of parts which was awesome.
If you haven't read the Greenstone Security books yet, now is the time to catch up before this baby drops next month :) <3
This is one of my favorites of Anne's. I thought the heroine, in particular, was incredibly engaging, the hero was just the right kind of overprotective alpha, the cast of side characters had a lot to add to the story. To be honest, it gave me old school KA vibes in a lot of parts which was awesome.
If you haven't read the Greenstone Security books yet, now is the time to catch up before this baby drops next month :) <3
October 3, 2019
4 1/2 slow burns!
This book isn’t like other books written by Anne Malcom yes it has a very protective possessive hero, and a strong smart kind heroine and yes (yay) we get previous character’s in this book to enjoy but the book is a beautiful slow burn done very well. Though Lance and Elana don’t jump in to bed together right away and they both have to work and wait for them to get to be together the wait is very much worth it and we get to see these two amazing characters not only fall in love but really get to know each other and in Lances case also get to know and fall in love with Elana’s young son Nathan, which made this book special.
Elana did what she had to not only to save and protect herself but more importantly to save her son and give him a life all children should have. One filled with smiles and laughter and not of fear and violence. Running with nothing Elana worked hard to build a life: find a job and a home and most importantly a new family that loved her and her son. Then one day everything changes and in a moment of utter desperation and fear Elana turns up at Greestone Security and runs into Lance.
Lance doesn’t say much but he’s an action man and when Elana runs into Greestone he and Keltan move into action to help this desperate mother. Never would Lance have guessed how much he enjoys Elana and Nathans company and though he knows he needs to keep a distance Lance finds himself doing everything he can to be by them and soon the lines are blurring more and more for Lance, Elana and Nathan. While everything may seem to be falling together their lives can just as quickly fall to pieces from outside and inside sources. And Lance and Elana will have to decide if they are strong enough to fight.
I wasn’t expecting this one from Anne Malcom, when she told me it was a slow burn I was really excited but also surprised. I love a good slow burn there’s something about a book that makes us really get to know the characters and shows the struggles and anx of two people falling in love and this book was just that. I loved seeing their inner thoughts both of excitement and nervousness and most importantly when they come to the realization that they can’t go on without the other and that the other person makes them a better person. Nathan was a great addition to this book his relationship with Keltan was so sweet and a great part of this book. This was just a great book that I loved reading. As simple as that statement sounds it’s that easy.
Thank you Anne Malcom for this Beta book.
This book isn’t like other books written by Anne Malcom yes it has a very protective possessive hero, and a strong smart kind heroine and yes (yay) we get previous character’s in this book to enjoy but the book is a beautiful slow burn done very well. Though Lance and Elana don’t jump in to bed together right away and they both have to work and wait for them to get to be together the wait is very much worth it and we get to see these two amazing characters not only fall in love but really get to know each other and in Lances case also get to know and fall in love with Elana’s young son Nathan, which made this book special.
Elana did what she had to not only to save and protect herself but more importantly to save her son and give him a life all children should have. One filled with smiles and laughter and not of fear and violence. Running with nothing Elana worked hard to build a life: find a job and a home and most importantly a new family that loved her and her son. Then one day everything changes and in a moment of utter desperation and fear Elana turns up at Greestone Security and runs into Lance.
Lance doesn’t say much but he’s an action man and when Elana runs into Greestone he and Keltan move into action to help this desperate mother. Never would Lance have guessed how much he enjoys Elana and Nathans company and though he knows he needs to keep a distance Lance finds himself doing everything he can to be by them and soon the lines are blurring more and more for Lance, Elana and Nathan. While everything may seem to be falling together their lives can just as quickly fall to pieces from outside and inside sources. And Lance and Elana will have to decide if they are strong enough to fight.
I wasn’t expecting this one from Anne Malcom, when she told me it was a slow burn I was really excited but also surprised. I love a good slow burn there’s something about a book that makes us really get to know the characters and shows the struggles and anx of two people falling in love and this book was just that. I loved seeing their inner thoughts both of excitement and nervousness and most importantly when they come to the realization that they can’t go on without the other and that the other person makes them a better person. Nathan was a great addition to this book his relationship with Keltan was so sweet and a great part of this book. This was just a great book that I loved reading. As simple as that statement sounds it’s that easy.
Thank you Anne Malcom for this Beta book.
dnf
October 6, 2019Another case of it’s me, not you, so I’m stopping this one at 34%. This book is highly rated, so clearly I’m in the minority on this book. I really like the author’s writing, so I had hoped to overlook the things that were bothering me, but sadly it’s just not working for me :(
The constant long internal dialogue (even in the middle of conversations) is so overwhelming and often unnecessary. The repetitive use of the word ‘frickin’ (is that even a word?) combined with the heroine’s pov written in 1st person and the hero’s pov in 3rd just all adds up to a miss for me. I really wanted to learn about Lance and why he’s so tortured, but I can’t go through Elena’s nonstop internal thoughts to find out.
The constant long internal dialogue (even in the middle of conversations) is so overwhelming and often unnecessary. The repetitive use of the word ‘frickin’ (is that even a word?) combined with the heroine’s pov written in 1st person and the hero’s pov in 3rd just all adds up to a miss for me. I really wanted to learn about Lance and why he’s so tortured, but I can’t go through Elena’s nonstop internal thoughts to find out.
September 20, 2019
***5 ‘Something Damaged. Something Beautiful.’ Stars***
Talk about all kinds of slow burn goodness!
This book had my heart bouncing around all over the place from start to finish. I laughed, I swooned, I got all teary and sniffly and I really wanted to gut someone with a spoon. And when I got to the end, I really wished there were more words to read because I didn’t want to say good bye to these characters at all.
I adored Elena and Lance. These two definitely kept me on my toes. Elena is so strong. She’s been through hell and even though she’s scarred by all that she has lived through, she still sees the good in people and in the world and keeps reaching for the good instead of wallowing in the dark. Lance. Now. I LOVE me some broody, one syllable speaking, I’ll singe with a look alpha AF male, but Lance may just take the cake. This man walks a darker path than most, but even in the dark he still has something golden in him that comes out when he least expects it.
Their journey to their HEA is all kinds of rocky slow burn goodness and I loved it all. The zing between them was there from the start, even if it wasn’t your typical type of zing and I loved watching as the cracks started to appear in both of them and seeing how they became so much more to each other than they’d ever thought they could be.
Ok. So. Confession time: This is my first Greenstone Security book *ducks and covers*.
(And for those wondering. YES, It can be read as a stand-alone) I’m a tinsy bit behind on all the goodness that the author has out there, I just stumbled upon her recently and was immediately needing more of her words. But this book has me desperately looking for places where I can slot in the previous books to read so I can be caught up on everything because all of the characters in the book were amazing! From the Greenstone family to Elena’s crew, I NEED more of them all (Especially Rosie. I kinda want to be Rosie when I grow up). So major amounts of love all around to all.
As for the storyline and all that goes on. There will be triggers. Big Ones. But they are dealt with well and are necessary for the plot and the growth of both Elena and Lance. But, overall, I liked how everything played out and where things ended, even if I did end up getting all teary and sniffly.
~ Copy provided by the author & voluntarily reviewed ~
Talk about all kinds of slow burn goodness!
This book had my heart bouncing around all over the place from start to finish. I laughed, I swooned, I got all teary and sniffly and I really wanted to gut someone with a spoon. And when I got to the end, I really wished there were more words to read because I didn’t want to say good bye to these characters at all.
I adored Elena and Lance. These two definitely kept me on my toes. Elena is so strong. She’s been through hell and even though she’s scarred by all that she has lived through, she still sees the good in people and in the world and keeps reaching for the good instead of wallowing in the dark. Lance. Now. I LOVE me some broody, one syllable speaking, I’ll singe with a look alpha AF male, but Lance may just take the cake. This man walks a darker path than most, but even in the dark he still has something golden in him that comes out when he least expects it.
Their journey to their HEA is all kinds of rocky slow burn goodness and I loved it all. The zing between them was there from the start, even if it wasn’t your typical type of zing and I loved watching as the cracks started to appear in both of them and seeing how they became so much more to each other than they’d ever thought they could be.
Ok. So. Confession time: This is my first Greenstone Security book *ducks and covers*.
(And for those wondering. YES, It can be read as a stand-alone) I’m a tinsy bit behind on all the goodness that the author has out there, I just stumbled upon her recently and was immediately needing more of her words. But this book has me desperately looking for places where I can slot in the previous books to read so I can be caught up on everything because all of the characters in the book were amazing! From the Greenstone family to Elena’s crew, I NEED more of them all (Especially Rosie. I kinda want to be Rosie when I grow up). So major amounts of love all around to all.
As for the storyline and all that goes on. There will be triggers. Big Ones. But they are dealt with well and are necessary for the plot and the growth of both Elena and Lance. But, overall, I liked how everything played out and where things ended, even if I did end up getting all teary and sniffly.
~ Copy provided by the author & voluntarily reviewed ~
October 3, 2019
Words Spoken by the Herione.
My story isn’t unique.
Isn’t rare.
Buts raw, real and heartbreakingly beautiful.
This is the fourth book in the GreenStone Security Series.
So its been a couple days since I finished this book and this book left me speechless. Not many books can do that but lately Anne Malcom has been doing that. I don't like picking favourites but this book by Anne has simply become one of my favourites. Not just the storyline but these characters.
From the moment I started this book til the time I finished those last few pages. This book had me captivated and hooked. I couldn't for the life of me put it down.
These characters that you meet inside this book, You feel their pain, suffering and fear like you were going through it at the same time. This book will take you on the ride of emotions, you will feel anger, sadness, the urge to want to throat punch someone, frustration.
Have the tissues on stand by because your going to need them.
I am not going to spoil who the characters are that this book belongs to, you will need to read to find out. Just know the chemistry that these characters have is almost instant. Its like they are drawn to each other because they can see the darkness inside each other that they both share.
There story is the slowest of slow burns and they do have to conquer many obstacles to get to where they are right now. They needed to go through these obstacles.
The Hero in this story, you will no doubt fall for, his silent, broody, gruff and only speaks in small sentences. He is the type of the man that hides his feelings but forgets that people who have dealt with darkness, the moment eyes touch, your eyes do the speaking for you. He would also rather keep his pain inside and let it destroy him then let someone else in.
See what I mean about being heartbreakingly beautiful because this is what this man is.
The herione in this book, I absolutely loved, She will do almost anything for the people she loves. She's the strongest, she's a fighter and she's a survivor.
Together this couple will show you that walking through hell is easier when the monster walking beside you is even more dangerous then you've ever known.
My story isn’t unique.
Isn’t rare.
Buts raw, real and heartbreakingly beautiful.
This is the fourth book in the GreenStone Security Series.
So its been a couple days since I finished this book and this book left me speechless. Not many books can do that but lately Anne Malcom has been doing that. I don't like picking favourites but this book by Anne has simply become one of my favourites. Not just the storyline but these characters.
From the moment I started this book til the time I finished those last few pages. This book had me captivated and hooked. I couldn't for the life of me put it down.
These characters that you meet inside this book, You feel their pain, suffering and fear like you were going through it at the same time. This book will take you on the ride of emotions, you will feel anger, sadness, the urge to want to throat punch someone, frustration.
Have the tissues on stand by because your going to need them.
I am not going to spoil who the characters are that this book belongs to, you will need to read to find out. Just know the chemistry that these characters have is almost instant. Its like they are drawn to each other because they can see the darkness inside each other that they both share.
There story is the slowest of slow burns and they do have to conquer many obstacles to get to where they are right now. They needed to go through these obstacles.
The Hero in this story, you will no doubt fall for, his silent, broody, gruff and only speaks in small sentences. He is the type of the man that hides his feelings but forgets that people who have dealt with darkness, the moment eyes touch, your eyes do the speaking for you. He would also rather keep his pain inside and let it destroy him then let someone else in.
See what I mean about being heartbreakingly beautiful because this is what this man is.
The herione in this book, I absolutely loved, She will do almost anything for the people she loves. She's the strongest, she's a fighter and she's a survivor.
Together this couple will show you that walking through hell is easier when the monster walking beside you is even more dangerous then you've ever known.
October 3, 2019
Speechless. Mesmerized. Spellbound. Chaos Remains by Anne Malcom was every one of this feelings and then some more. I cannot believe the sheer power and brilliance of her words. This story hit each of my weak spots. Raw. Gritty. Honest. Dark. Twisted. Edgy. Intense. My heart was gone from the very first chapter.
I love reading about broken people. Because these stories talk about inner strength and fighting spirit. In my own dark times I gather inspiration from them as these people remind me that there are worse sufferings. Chaos Remains will be in my most favorite reads in this category. Take Lance. The baddest badass, the alphahole, the most dangerous man in Greenstone Security team. Cold, emotionless,indifferent and ruthless. But his empty eyes and brooding nature hide a sea of tragic pain. My heart was breaking into tiny pieces. He captured my heart and it is still aching for him.
Elena is his kryptonite. When she appeared in bruised and distressed state to ask for help to rescue her son, Lance did not imagine she will be breaking down his wall. She is light and life. She has incredible strength. She is fighting an impossible battle against all odds and I have nothing but respect for her. Her abusive ex who keeps on getting away due to the political power. Her financial difficulties. But she still loves unconditionally. One of the most complex and beautifully written female lead ever.
The chemistry between Lance and Elena is built painfully slowly but brilliantly. There will be set backs. Push and pull. Mistakes and regrets. Danger and love. A rough ride was fitting because they are not normal. They have demons. They have insecurities. There will be sweet moments those melted my heart. There will intense emotions which knocked me down. Every moment had overwhelming emotions. And the words were poetic beauty.
I have been cursing myself for not reading Anne Malcom's work before. I have been clearly missing out. Don't make the same mistake. Grab this story as it is so worthy of every single star.
Received ARC for Honest review
I love reading about broken people. Because these stories talk about inner strength and fighting spirit. In my own dark times I gather inspiration from them as these people remind me that there are worse sufferings. Chaos Remains will be in my most favorite reads in this category. Take Lance. The baddest badass, the alphahole, the most dangerous man in Greenstone Security team. Cold, emotionless,indifferent and ruthless. But his empty eyes and brooding nature hide a sea of tragic pain. My heart was breaking into tiny pieces. He captured my heart and it is still aching for him.
Elena is his kryptonite. When she appeared in bruised and distressed state to ask for help to rescue her son, Lance did not imagine she will be breaking down his wall. She is light and life. She has incredible strength. She is fighting an impossible battle against all odds and I have nothing but respect for her. Her abusive ex who keeps on getting away due to the political power. Her financial difficulties. But she still loves unconditionally. One of the most complex and beautifully written female lead ever.
The chemistry between Lance and Elena is built painfully slowly but brilliantly. There will be set backs. Push and pull. Mistakes and regrets. Danger and love. A rough ride was fitting because they are not normal. They have demons. They have insecurities. There will be sweet moments those melted my heart. There will intense emotions which knocked me down. Every moment had overwhelming emotions. And the words were poetic beauty.
I have been cursing myself for not reading Anne Malcom's work before. I have been clearly missing out. Don't make the same mistake. Grab this story as it is so worthy of every single star.
Received ARC for Honest review
October 3, 2019
Gahh! What can I even say about this book? I’ve read all the books in this series and the interconnected series. They’ve all been amazing, so I expected nothing less with this one. Chaos Remains packed in loads of feels that had me tearing up throughout the book. I just love, love, LOVE a broken badass. And don’t even get me started on a strong heroine. The ultimate combo which Anne delivers every. single. time.
Chaos Remains is actually a part of three series of books that I recommend over and over again. The Sons of Templar, Unquiet Mind, and of course, Greenstone Security. These books can all be read as standalones, but why would you want to do that when you can binge this entire epic series?! Start with Making the Cut and you’ll never look back!!
Chaos Remains is actually a part of three series of books that I recommend over and over again. The Sons of Templar, Unquiet Mind, and of course, Greenstone Security. These books can all be read as standalones, but why would you want to do that when you can binge this entire epic series?! Start with Making the Cut and you’ll never look back!!
September 18, 2019
I wish I could give this book ten stars! It is truly the best book Anne has ever written in my opinion! I laughed, I cried, my heart broke and then was put back together. Lance and Elena just became favorite couple!! I can’t even put into words how magnificent this book was!!
October 1, 2019
I absolutely love Anne Malcom. The way her mind works will just blow you away, and I love every single bit of it. I have been a fan of hers for awhile now, and even though I love each and every story, she just keeps getting better and better. She blows me away with her talent.
In Chaos Remains we have so much feels going on. I do not want to give away any spoilers but I will do the best I can. I feel for the female lead so much. She is such a strong character and tries so hard to take care of her son. She has overcome so much, and to see her struggle, yet get up again is so inspiring. The Greenstone member that steps up and takes this more personal than the others, I was not expecting him. He turned out to be so much more that what I thought, but turns out he is exactly what is needed. These two together will blow you away, just be prepared.
Anne has done a fantastic job of creating this family in the Greenstone security, and i love reading about each and every character. Each one will touch a piece of your heart and not let go. They are a family, and you can almost feel the love and togetherness. That is what makes Anne such an amazing author. She takes you along for an emotinal ride that you swear you were seeing unfold before your very eyes. Well done, Anne. Chaos Remains is absolutley a wonderful piece of art, and I cannot wait to see what comes next.
In Chaos Remains we have so much feels going on. I do not want to give away any spoilers but I will do the best I can. I feel for the female lead so much. She is such a strong character and tries so hard to take care of her son. She has overcome so much, and to see her struggle, yet get up again is so inspiring. The Greenstone member that steps up and takes this more personal than the others, I was not expecting him. He turned out to be so much more that what I thought, but turns out he is exactly what is needed. These two together will blow you away, just be prepared.
Anne has done a fantastic job of creating this family in the Greenstone security, and i love reading about each and every character. Each one will touch a piece of your heart and not let go. They are a family, and you can almost feel the love and togetherness. That is what makes Anne such an amazing author. She takes you along for an emotinal ride that you swear you were seeing unfold before your very eyes. Well done, Anne. Chaos Remains is absolutley a wonderful piece of art, and I cannot wait to see what comes next.
October 9, 2019
WOW emotional overdrive over her Anne Malcom has wrote some of my favorite stories including this one . Chaos remains is book four in the Greenstone Security and can be read as a standalone but I recommend that you read them in order also read Sons of Templar series you don't want to miss out on it .
September 19, 2019
Another more than 5 stars book!!! It's not a secret that I'm a big fan of Anne Malcom... and this book is definitely one of her best books.its hard it's sad it's funny... It's everything!!! Just.... read it🖤
December 29, 2019
Perfection! The story of two terribly broken people finding a way to their HEA. I bawled my eyes out in this one & I raged for both of them. 2019 Favourite Story
Proper review to come. Beta read
Proper review to come. Beta read
May 19, 2024
One of my favourite authors however I struggled with the heroine. She was annoying - I got sick of the I’m a mother blah blah throughout most of the book…unless you’re Dory from finding Nemo this added no value.
The hero and the kid was good in the book - the chaos was the heroine.
The hero and the kid was good in the book - the chaos was the heroine.
May 19, 2021
Sometimes in Chaos comes Peace
Things that make me happy:
1. Coffee/Wine (You will always find one or the other, and sometimes both at the same time, in my hands)
2. Books
3. Magic
4. My tribe of friends, including my amazing son
5. Anne Malcom
Okay to be fair, there are other things too, but I was trying to make a point here. I could go on and on about how amazing this incredible author is but I figured adding her to my top five list would show how extraordinary she is. Part of that reason is this series. Don't get me wrong, all of her stories are amazing but there is just something so special about this series, in particular, that always changes the template of who I am. She leaves me feeling the effects of her words and these characters even months down the line. There is always a message there that often comes at just the time that I need it and that was definitely the case with this story by way of Elena, Lance, and Nathan.
“Anyone can breathe through any kind of pain. That’s why I told myself. Breathing isn’t hard. It’s just sometimes you have to remind yourself that. As long as you remember, breathing is easy.”
The author again created a female that was individually her own. Elena was vastly different from Rosie, Lucy, and Polly from the previous books but yet there was a commonality between them all. It was that something damaged could in fact still be more than just a survivor. She was strong when she had every right to be weak or fall apart. Her resilience and her devotion to her son was truly what the majority of mothers feel, or I at least hope that they do. Her putting her son, Nathan, above herself was admirable. It was heartfelt. It gave a true definition to the premise of unconditional love. It was relatable to me because I didn't have that as a child but it didn't stop me from loving my son how I should have been loved. My years spent in the system taught me to have faith or as I call it "believing in magic" so I understood Elena and her unwitting acceptance of faith and not letting the hardships define her.
Then she created Lance. A man that had demons of his own and was trying to be numb to the notion of ever having this connection to something so similar to something else. A man that didn't have the faith that Elena had for other reasons. That this encounter with Elena and her sweet son might be more of a taunt than an actual way for the Universe to give back. He was gruff, unfeeling, and kind of a jerk. Yet, he was also protective, and safe, and was named Captain for a reason.
I loved seeing the interactions again with the ladies of Greenstone. These women are truly my spirit sisters. Often times, Rosie is my personal guide of what to do (Or sometimes what not to do, because murder is illegal. While she might not have qualms about doing it because she wouldn't get caught I, on the other hand, might not be that lucky. Plus I do not look good in orange). Great appearance from the other guys too but the ladies stole the show. Add in the cutest and smartest little boy and this story was another hit from this author. I cannot recommend this story or series enough.
Things that make me happy:
1. Coffee/Wine (You will always find one or the other, and sometimes both at the same time, in my hands)
2. Books
3. Magic
4. My tribe of friends, including my amazing son
5. Anne Malcom
Okay to be fair, there are other things too, but I was trying to make a point here. I could go on and on about how amazing this incredible author is but I figured adding her to my top five list would show how extraordinary she is. Part of that reason is this series. Don't get me wrong, all of her stories are amazing but there is just something so special about this series, in particular, that always changes the template of who I am. She leaves me feeling the effects of her words and these characters even months down the line. There is always a message there that often comes at just the time that I need it and that was definitely the case with this story by way of Elena, Lance, and Nathan.
“Anyone can breathe through any kind of pain. That’s why I told myself. Breathing isn’t hard. It’s just sometimes you have to remind yourself that. As long as you remember, breathing is easy.”
The author again created a female that was individually her own. Elena was vastly different from Rosie, Lucy, and Polly from the previous books but yet there was a commonality between them all. It was that something damaged could in fact still be more than just a survivor. She was strong when she had every right to be weak or fall apart. Her resilience and her devotion to her son was truly what the majority of mothers feel, or I at least hope that they do. Her putting her son, Nathan, above herself was admirable. It was heartfelt. It gave a true definition to the premise of unconditional love. It was relatable to me because I didn't have that as a child but it didn't stop me from loving my son how I should have been loved. My years spent in the system taught me to have faith or as I call it "believing in magic" so I understood Elena and her unwitting acceptance of faith and not letting the hardships define her.
Then she created Lance. A man that had demons of his own and was trying to be numb to the notion of ever having this connection to something so similar to something else. A man that didn't have the faith that Elena had for other reasons. That this encounter with Elena and her sweet son might be more of a taunt than an actual way for the Universe to give back. He was gruff, unfeeling, and kind of a jerk. Yet, he was also protective, and safe, and was named Captain for a reason.
I loved seeing the interactions again with the ladies of Greenstone. These women are truly my spirit sisters. Often times, Rosie is my personal guide of what to do (Or sometimes what not to do, because murder is illegal. While she might not have qualms about doing it because she wouldn't get caught I, on the other hand, might not be that lucky. Plus I do not look good in orange). Great appearance from the other guys too but the ladies stole the show. Add in the cutest and smartest little boy and this story was another hit from this author. I cannot recommend this story or series enough.
August 26, 2020
I received an ARC of this book from the author and I voluntarily reviewed it. Thank you Anne Malcom!
Where do I start... This book had me in tears only 2% in. TWO PERCENT. That's not a lot of time for the author to take you in their grasp and make you feel emotion. It takes great skill to do that, and Malcom has that skill. She is a true wordsmith, and this is her proof (and there are many more proofs).
Firstly, I want to tackle the subject of fear. It is the underlying constant in this whole entire book. Each character goes through so much, terrified of what the future holds. Terrified that they are the cause for so much pain. Malcom manages to make this fear, their insecurities, feel so REAL. So tangible.
Now, just because there was an underlying tone of fear, it does not mean there there was no bravery and courage. There was some at every page. Bravery isn't grand gestures. It's facing the day and the unknown every morning. It's fighting for your loved ones. It's finding the strength to move forward when it feels like everything is pulling you back.
Tangent over. Apparently I ramble as much as Elena.
The chemistry between the characters just jumped right off the pages. The tension the emotions were all so real, I still feel the remnants of their effects hours after finishing the book. Elena and Lance were perfection in their own form of chaos. And in true Malcom fashion, I cried 2% from the end. Talk about bookending with tears. There are just so many touching and precious moments in this book, and I cannot recommend it enough.
Where do I start... This book had me in tears only 2% in. TWO PERCENT. That's not a lot of time for the author to take you in their grasp and make you feel emotion. It takes great skill to do that, and Malcom has that skill. She is a true wordsmith, and this is her proof (and there are many more proofs).
Firstly, I want to tackle the subject of fear. It is the underlying constant in this whole entire book. Each character goes through so much, terrified of what the future holds. Terrified that they are the cause for so much pain. Malcom manages to make this fear, their insecurities, feel so REAL. So tangible.
Now, just because there was an underlying tone of fear, it does not mean there there was no bravery and courage. There was some at every page. Bravery isn't grand gestures. It's facing the day and the unknown every morning. It's fighting for your loved ones. It's finding the strength to move forward when it feels like everything is pulling you back.
Tangent over. Apparently I ramble as much as Elena.
The chemistry between the characters just jumped right off the pages. The tension the emotions were all so real, I still feel the remnants of their effects hours after finishing the book. Elena and Lance were perfection in their own form of chaos. And in true Malcom fashion, I cried 2% from the end. Talk about bookending with tears. There are just so many touching and precious moments in this book, and I cannot recommend it enough.
October 3, 2019
Lance and Elena.
I have read this authors books from the beginning but recently I've found a lot of the characters seemed the same and they were very OTT so for that reason I nearly didn't read this book.
It was amazing, really amazing.
It is really funny although it deals with some difficult issues as Elena is running from an abusive ex.
She is a single mum with the most amazing, funny son. He is hilarious. Watch out for the scenes with his backpack.
Lance is a brooding, almost silent Hero. He literally barely speaks.
Elena is a babble and some of the things she rambles on about when she's nervous is so funny.
The is vague details of the Hero's past with women, it just mentions that there was no feelings from his side.
No other woman drama.
Other man drama in the form of the heroines ex but no sexual scenes.
There are some abuse related memories that are retold, including rape but no detail, just that it happened.
No intimate scenes with anyone other than the Hero and heroine.
No cheating.
The heroine has been separated for 3 years, the ex refuses to sign divorce papers, nothing sexual happens between the Hero and heroine until after they are signed.
Child is an active part of the plot not a prop.
HEA.
Excellent secondary characters for future storylines and plenty of scenes with former couples from series.
I have read this authors books from the beginning but recently I've found a lot of the characters seemed the same and they were very OTT so for that reason I nearly didn't read this book.
It was amazing, really amazing.
It is really funny although it deals with some difficult issues as Elena is running from an abusive ex.
She is a single mum with the most amazing, funny son. He is hilarious. Watch out for the scenes with his backpack.
Lance is a brooding, almost silent Hero. He literally barely speaks.
Elena is a babble and some of the things she rambles on about when she's nervous is so funny.
The is vague details of the Hero's past with women, it just mentions that there was no feelings from his side.
No other woman drama.
Other man drama in the form of the heroines ex but no sexual scenes.
There are some abuse related memories that are retold, including rape but no detail, just that it happened.
No intimate scenes with anyone other than the Hero and heroine.
No cheating.
The heroine has been separated for 3 years, the ex refuses to sign divorce papers, nothing sexual happens between the Hero and heroine until after they are signed.
Child is an active part of the plot not a prop.
HEA.
Excellent secondary characters for future storylines and plenty of scenes with former couples from series.
October 3, 2019
Chaos Remains is part of the Greenstone Security Series and is book 4. This is by far one of my FAVORATE books by this author... I LOOOVED it.
This is book is a very slow burn, very emotional, and completely heartbreaking. Lance and Elana are absolutely perfect. Two very damaged souls coming together and healing as one.
Lance to me kind of reminded me of Bull's character from Out of the Ashes.. dark, broody, kept to himself, and so very damaged.. and Elana, she was a breath of fresh air. With everything she has been thru in her short life, she did not give up, she fought tooth and nail to make a better life for her and her baby boy..
“Some of the most beautiful things I’ve seen are those that have been broken.”
Anne brings her stories/words to life by putting her characters in some very real life situations.. situations that my be hard to read but need to be. This is probably one of the things I just love about this author.. and as I have probably said before she pulls no punches.. Real life is not all hearts and rainbows.. its dark and real but it is also strength and beauty.
"I know monsters,” I said. “I came out of one. Was raised by two. Married another one. Made an angel with a monster
This is book is a very slow burn, very emotional, and completely heartbreaking. Lance and Elana are absolutely perfect. Two very damaged souls coming together and healing as one.
Lance to me kind of reminded me of Bull's character from Out of the Ashes.. dark, broody, kept to himself, and so very damaged.. and Elana, she was a breath of fresh air. With everything she has been thru in her short life, she did not give up, she fought tooth and nail to make a better life for her and her baby boy..
“Some of the most beautiful things I’ve seen are those that have been broken.”
Anne brings her stories/words to life by putting her characters in some very real life situations.. situations that my be hard to read but need to be. This is probably one of the things I just love about this author.. and as I have probably said before she pulls no punches.. Real life is not all hearts and rainbows.. its dark and real but it is also strength and beauty.
"I know monsters,” I said. “I came out of one. Was raised by two. Married another one. Made an angel with a monster
August 26, 2020
5 Chaos Stars
Chaos Remains is the fourth installment in the Greenstone Security Series by Anne Malcom. If you haven't read the Greenstone Security books yet I highly recommend getting on that pronto!
With everything life has thrown at Elena, she is still one positive, light hearted and caring woman and parent. She is a woman that puts her child ahead of everything within her life including eating. She is running from evil and fear and is trying to keep her son safe from all of it. Lance has a past that he tries to keep secret, to not think about it and to make sure no one else find out about it. But is he going to allow his past to dictate his future?
"But pain fades. Even the worst kind. Especially when the worst kind is replaced by the most beautiful miracle in the world."
Absolutely brilliant, I laughed, I cried, and my heart broke at times for these two. I loved Elena and Lance, their story will stick with you long after you finish the last page.
http://realtastypages.com
Chaos Remains is the fourth installment in the Greenstone Security Series by Anne Malcom. If you haven't read the Greenstone Security books yet I highly recommend getting on that pronto!
With everything life has thrown at Elena, she is still one positive, light hearted and caring woman and parent. She is a woman that puts her child ahead of everything within her life including eating. She is running from evil and fear and is trying to keep her son safe from all of it. Lance has a past that he tries to keep secret, to not think about it and to make sure no one else find out about it. But is he going to allow his past to dictate his future?
"But pain fades. Even the worst kind. Especially when the worst kind is replaced by the most beautiful miracle in the world."
Absolutely brilliant, I laughed, I cried, and my heart broke at times for these two. I loved Elena and Lance, their story will stick with you long after you finish the last page.
http://realtastypages.com
September 25, 2019
I have had this window open for most of the day trying to think of an appropriate review to write. I have loved each of Anne's books in a different way. This one is no exception. It is a slow burn of 2 people who have been damaged by their past that made my heart hurt for them.
"Elena was all kinds of dark right now, she needed some light. Some peace in this chaos."
Anne has a way with words that I feel deep down in her characters. She has a way of describing their demenor, how much they fight for what they want and to protect those they love. I can feel so much emotion that I can't imagine how she felt writing this one. So much raw emotional characters but also the supporting one seem more than just that. They seem like they are part of the main cast. Also bringing the whole Greenstone Security together was just the icing on the cake.
I feel the main thing I got from this book is FAMILY. They don't always have to be blood to be called family. So much love for this book and can't wait for everyone to read it.
"Elena was all kinds of dark right now, she needed some light. Some peace in this chaos."
Anne has a way with words that I feel deep down in her characters. She has a way of describing their demenor, how much they fight for what they want and to protect those they love. I can feel so much emotion that I can't imagine how she felt writing this one. So much raw emotional characters but also the supporting one seem more than just that. They seem like they are part of the main cast. Also bringing the whole Greenstone Security together was just the icing on the cake.
I feel the main thing I got from this book is FAMILY. They don't always have to be blood to be called family. So much love for this book and can't wait for everyone to read it.
September 1, 2020
I can’t even begin to explain the pain, angst and pure gut wrenching emotion this book exhibited whilst I was reading it. I was kicking myself because whilst I was busy with reality, I somehow managed to miss this book. But no matter, I have rectified that situation and I’m glad I did. Anne Malcom continues to prove why she is a boss when it comes to these kinds of stories.
I’ve absolutely missed these guys, not just the Greenstone hotties, but the Greenstone ladies. Lance and Elena’s story absolutely wrecked me! No words can ever do it justice. I was literally transported into another world, felt things I’ve never felt and just felt like my soul was aching with pleasure, angst & wholesome-ness. It’s these kinds of books that make me feel alive as a reader.
I’ve absolutely missed these guys, not just the Greenstone hotties, but the Greenstone ladies. Lance and Elena’s story absolutely wrecked me! No words can ever do it justice. I was literally transported into another world, felt things I’ve never felt and just felt like my soul was aching with pleasure, angst & wholesome-ness. It’s these kinds of books that make me feel alive as a reader.
September 21, 2019
Yay! Anne Malcom’s back with a new dark and sexy story and I loved it. I run either hot or cold with some of this author’s works. Some are amazingly mind blowing and some just meh. I’m so happy to be able to say that this story was wonderful. The heroine is strong, a survivor, and completely relatable. The hero starts off gruff and a bit of an ass, but you just know he’s got some awful baggage. I’m completely in love with Lance now though. It’s a wonderful slow burn romance - somehow this may be my new favorite trope. These two are perfect together - eventually. All their parts just click. And the epilogue was teary-eyed perfection.
October 3, 2019
This is book four in the Greenstone Security series. These are so good I highly recommend you start from book one and get stuck in.
Although this is a slow burn I think this pulled out more emotions than
the other books in the series.
Elena and Lance. Wow you sure had me on the edge of my seat.
Fantastic read that I couldn’t read fast enough yet at the same time I didn’t want it to finish. So so good. Read the Greenstone Security now.
Although this is a slow burn I think this pulled out more emotions than
the other books in the series.
Elena and Lance. Wow you sure had me on the edge of my seat.
Fantastic read that I couldn’t read fast enough yet at the same time I didn’t want it to finish. So so good. Read the Greenstone Security now.
September 22, 2019
Ok so I just finished reading this. My mind and heart are truly spent! I knew id love it but after reading Lance's story I can't say enough how beautiful this was. I loved Nathan to the point that I would catch myself just laughing at his cuteness. Loved this book so much I finished it in 3 days. I called it beautiful but yet it wrecks you all in the same way.
August 26, 2020
Anne Malcom truly knows how to break a girls heart...In the best possible way of course! I cried a lot reading this book; Elena and Lance's story was something I was completely unprepared for. Full of some refreshingly wonderful slow slow burn, fears, flaws and chaos. Chaos Remains was so so good & I don't know that I'll be over it for quite some time. 🖤
September 22, 2019
I finished this book with tears down my face. This is book is a slow burn. Very emotional, heartbreaking but in the end learning to breath and love can change your life forever. Lance and Elena’s story is definitely one I’ll never forget! 5/5 stars
October 5, 2019
I fell in love with Elena and Nathan. Lance made me swoon! The kid had me lol. Rosie had me lmaool! I had a few different feels for this book that made me enjoy it immensely. I hope we get a story for Duke. Keeping my fingers crossed!
July 28, 2020
4.5 stars
January 3, 2024
3 stars
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October 24, 2025
I really loved this addition to the Greenstone Security series by Anne Malcom. The earlier books in the series featured characters that we had met and they were wonderful but this one brings in Elena a single mother that has been struggling to survive with her young son, Nathan. Elena ran from an abusive husband, that was a police officer and the son of a senator, someone with the power and connections to cover up his misdeeds. She has settled in LA a city large enough to get lost in but her husband finds her after 3 years and beats her one more time and takes their son. In desperation she stumbles in the Greenstone Agency and begs for their help. Lance one of their operatives hears her pleas and after she meets with Kelton, the owner of the firm, they swing into action to assist her. After securing her son the firm decides they are not done, they rally around her and bring her and Nathan into their “family”. She already has a wonderful group of friends surrounding her and helping her, as much as she will let them, and the Greenstone group makes her accept more help. The only reason she accepts their pushy forced assistance is because she wants to keep her son safe. Her son Nathan is a wonderful character who is so full of light and love and wonder that he easily breaks down the cold seemingly unfeeling Lance. Lance, an enigma, that only communicates in one or two word sentences or grunts and looks. Though he and Elena are obviously drawn to each other they take a long time to act on any feelings they have but when they do it is explosive. This is truly a slow burn romance with some tough scenes and heartbreaking passages but worth the read.
May 3, 2020
Chaos Remains: Greenstone Security (4)
What a book. This was one of 3 series by Anne Malcom, that intertwine. I chose to read them together. Got couple out of order but this I feel made an excellent last. Elena had left an abusive marriage with her young son changing their names, but now he'd found them, he threatened her, punched her in the eye, then the next day took their 4 yr old son from school. She got lucky when she stumbled into Greenstone Security. They got her boy back and warned him off, she didnt want them to kill him, though they offered. They put a 24 hr security team on them, secured her house, did it pro bono too. Lance was a very hard man. He had his reasons, he also fell for Elena hard, she fell for him too. But he couldn't risk it, getting hurt again. This is an excellent book, from the first to last page. If you like a really good read, pick an Anne Malcom book, I have finished my 18th and need more
Sue P
What a book. This was one of 3 series by Anne Malcom, that intertwine. I chose to read them together. Got couple out of order but this I feel made an excellent last. Elena had left an abusive marriage with her young son changing their names, but now he'd found them, he threatened her, punched her in the eye, then the next day took their 4 yr old son from school. She got lucky when she stumbled into Greenstone Security. They got her boy back and warned him off, she didnt want them to kill him, though they offered. They put a 24 hr security team on them, secured her house, did it pro bono too. Lance was a very hard man. He had his reasons, he also fell for Elena hard, she fell for him too. But he couldn't risk it, getting hurt again. This is an excellent book, from the first to last page. If you like a really good read, pick an Anne Malcom book, I have finished my 18th and need more
Sue P
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