A cold hearted criminal. A wholesome good girl. Can she heal his heart and claim him as her own?
I’m a cold hearted criminal, and I’ve lived a callous life as the Sergeant at Arms of the Vicious Vipers MC. I spent most of my childhood as a victim, and because of the junkie who raised me, I hate to be touched.
But her...
The social worker my fingers itch to reach for—she’s wholesome. Kind. Too good for a man like me, and yet, I can’t curb my weakness to be near her.
When one of her teenage clients needs protection from the same type of man who hurt my sister, I know I’ll be revealing my true self, my darker side, to help the girl.
For her.
I’ll lose the only person I’ve found who values my feelings above her own—the woman whose sweet nature is a force to be reckoned with.
I know I should walk away, but how do I leave the heart I didn't know I still had behind?
Callous Criminal is the third book in the Vicious Vipers MC series and features a gritty, cruel biker and a woman hell bent on claiming him as her own.
If you love stories that pull at your heartstrings and yet leave you on the edge of your seat, you need to pick Callous Criminal up TODAY!
Spicy romance author Lynn Burke believes everyone deserves healing and a happily ever after. She loves writing hot, inclusive stories of various pairings or triplings and creates characters who will steal your heart.
She is a USA Today Bestselling author, a wrangler of her three spawn, and a farmer's daughter who grows organic food. To escape reality, she hides in a quiet corner with her nose in a book.
He didn't do relationships. He didn't do much with women. He couldn't be touched. Hard to have anything personal that way. He was the club enforcer--that he did well. Why did he feel so much when he met her. She wasn't a club girl he could use. She was so much more. How could he want her so much there was no way for them.
He called her Little Lamb. She could tell he'd been through too much and with her training and experience, it didn't take long to know a lot about his situation. Could she get him to trust her enough to help? Just because she worked with kids didn't mean she couldn't help. Besides he was so hot!
I loved this story, while he is a Vicious Viper, the club deals with preditors of women and children. Can Pia accept his lifestyle to work for a relationship? Will she succeed in helping him?
The story is touching. The characters touched me and I cheered for their relationship. The interaction with the club brothers and women is engaging. I strongly recommend this one. Reviewed for Words Turn Me On
Let's start off by saying that we are really enjoying this series as we just love the characters that it has. Callous aka Ryder is no joke a cold heart-ed a killer who makes no bones about who he is and we loved that about him. The broken man was capable of being loving, caring, protective sweet, and kind, and even with his affliction of no touching that he battles with daily was making slow strides with his little problem even if he wasn't even realizing it.
Pia aka Little Lamb as Ryder/Callous calls her was the bomb we just loved her. We found her to be loving and caring and protective of her charges so much so she took her job seriously as a social worker above and beyond the job to see to the safety of them the best she could. We loved her with Callous/Ryder even though she wasn't sure what lead to him being the way he was and that she took a chance on him hoping that little by little she could figure him out and help him in only the way she could. All those little accidental touches were working there little miracle.
Talk about chemistry this couple had that in spades. We loved them together even though we first thought that Pia was crazy to put up with the man's bullsh** ways. I have to say that we loved them together as they were complete opposites but, perfect for one another. One thing we loved most about this couple's relationship is that Callous from the onset of meeting Pia he never hid who he really was.
Overall this was a touching story that tugged on one's heartstrings of what Dasia and Ryder/Callous endured. I loved seeing a whole different side of Callous and Pia embrace her wild side that she kept locked up tight inside of her and how she took a chance on a bad boy. Together they were a force to be reckoned with!
I really enjoyed the first two books in the Vicious Vipers series but 'Callous Criminal' blow me away!
Ryker's story and yes for me this story belongs to him is an emotional story of the conflict of what is happening on the outside with the emotional and physical scars that you are holding inside. As the enforcer for the Vicious Vipers his brother's and the MC mean everything to Ryker - he would do anything for them as they would for him. The world sees Ryker as bad ass muscled take no s*** biker and he is that he dishes out his own form of justice against those that deserve it and doesn't loose any sleep over what he does. But the story also shows the other side of him, from being a little boy who lost so much to the man he has become today.
When his friends of the Vicious Vipers fall under the spell of cupids arrow Ryker is reminded that he will never experience that kind of love. Why? well that his story to tell and you will want to know. He is never intimate with anyone other than the club girls if he needs a quick release but no touching allowed, never has been never will be!
Meeting Pia is live changing for Ryker but their story isn't easy it is difficult and in place gut wrenching. But what makes this book so good is how well written the interaction between Pia and Ryker has been portrayed. I truly did feel as if I was a bystander watching their story unfold through a back drop of club life for Ryker and the stress and heartbreak of Pia's job working in the foster care system.
Well done Lynn Burke - I can't wait for Dasia's story it is going to be pretty special I can tell.
Ryker is the cold hearted enforcer for the Vicious Vipers MC who hasn't allowed anyone to physically touch him for years. He had to make a trip home because his mom was dying...not that he had love for her but wanted to be there for his sister.
Pia was a social worker trying to help place one of her girls in a new foster home since the place she was staying at now was unsafe for her. She had a heart of gold and was surprised at the connection she had while running into a big rugged man at her coffee shop.
Can Pia actually fall for this biker who has proven himself to be a "Callous Criminal" who is also revolted by another's touch? Does Ryker' s "little lamb" have it in her to take on this man who she feels many connections with?
I love this author's writing because she pulls you in from the start and keeps bringing it to you fast paced which always has me looking forward to the next book in this series. So if you like your bikers dirty and sexy this is a book for you.
Ryker cannot stand to be touched. That makes a relationship impossible. Pia is a social worker with a tough background, who uses that experience to help kids in the foster system. When one of her charges must flee a dangerous situation, she finds them in a club – and also runs into Ryker and recognizes his aversion to touch.
As these two continue to have interactions, can she break through his walls, and can he help her save the kids she cares so much about. Touch and touching, will pull at your heartstrings and leave you on the edge of your seat.
**I am voluntarily leaving my honest review of this book**
Ryker and Pia. Two people who seem to be an odd couple on the outside. But once you get a look inside there is no one else better for suited for them.
Pia has the perfect patience and understanding of why Ryker is the way he is. Ryker has no idea why she is so willing to work with him but once he really learns her past he sees why and it stuns him.
These are two people who seemingly never should have worked when you put it down on paper but the heart wants what it wants. It takes love and pain to get there but they make it through.
This is a wonderful addition to this series and I can’t wait to see what else lies ahead.
Ryker's story was amazing! I'm glad we finally got his story and found out why he didn't like to be touched. And Pia with the patience of a saint! These characters had amazing chemistry between them it was hot as hell. I was worried at first how the sex scenes would play out since Ryker didn't like to be touched but the scenes were 🔥! This book I feel didn't have as much suspense or action in it versus the previous books but that was ok. The author made up for it with other things! Overall an awesome read and I can't wait to read Devil's book next!
I thought Callous Criminal was a interesting read it is book three in the Vicious Vipers series it can be read as a standalone but I recommend that you read them in order . This is the third book that I've read by the author and I can't wait to read more by Lynn Burke in the future . My feelings were all over the place while reading this it was painful at times my heart just dropped with some of the shocking scenes and I loved every minute of it and I can't wait for more .
Oh man! This series just keeps getting better and better. And might I say....HOTTER and HOTTER? My my my! I needed a fan through some of these scenes.
Ryker and Pia are a pair. Let me tell you. If anyone could break through walls, it would be Pia. And if anyone needed a light in the dark, it’s for sure Ryker. I get for him so badly. No spoilers, you’re going to have to read for yourself why, I’m just going to say....wow!
Wow, what an emotional book. I couldn't wait to find out what happens next.
I loved Ryker and Pia together, they may of had some obstacles to overcome because of pasts. But they fight through it and Pia helps Ryker through everything.
Lynn Burke did amazingly well with this book considering the topic.
This book is where the series hit a high point for me. I think it's so brave for the author to tackle a male character who has a phobia of being touched in a romance. It made Ryker immediately sympathetic, despite how much of a bad-a$$ he is. The story starts with Ryker in South Boston dealing with his mother's last days, and the setting felt immediate and real to me. As I come from the area, I felt almost nostalgic for the streets of Southie. Pia is perfect for Ryker: mature, motherly, and patient. They have a ton of physical chemistry, but more importantly, a deep emotional connection. That connection gave this story more depth than anything I've read recently. It really tugged on my heartstrings and made me so happy when they got their HEA. Highly recommended.
Ryker and Pia both had horrible childhoods that molded them into who they are today. Pia became the type of social worker she wishes she had during her time in foster care. Ryker vowed his life to the Vicious Vipers. Two people from different worlds who had more in common then most people would think. Ryker’s past has made him cold hearted and unable to be touched until Pia comes into his life and tries to test his boundaries.
I am starting to think all the men in this club are going to end up with a younger woman. I am not complaining because who does not love an older man? It is not often you see a biker with a past that scars him emotionally for life. I liked that while Pia struggled to help Ryker move past his fears, he was still a badass alpha. I was worried that it would be hard to keep the attraction going but Lynn Burke did as great job. The boundaries she pushed really made it all so hot! Another great read. I cannot wait to see what Devil is going to bring! I wrote this review based on an advance reading copy that the publisher sent me.
Oh my poor Ryker, who was a man who couldn't be touched so there was no relationship in his future, and while I understood why, I wanted to hug him so badly (and I really hate being touched too). He's the Vicious Vipers Enforcer, which is a job that he excels at, but still, he's got a ton of emotional baggage & scars. Pia is a woman with a big heart, who is a social worker, who runs into Ryker at a coffee shop while she's doing her job. They have a connection, but this is not any sort of easy journey, not just because of the no touching situation, but what Ryker does for work, which I would totally do with him to be honest. He calls her little lamb, and frankly, she's just what the doctor ordered for him, but how long will it take for him to accept it?! You'll have to actually one click on this story to find out, and you want to one click! I LOVE this series, and CANNOT WAIT for more, so it shouldn't be a shock that I HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND TO ALL!
Ryker’s so bad he doesn’t need a club name...his strikes fear into the hearts of his enemies. He’s a cruel, cold brother that’s not afraid to do the dirty work. He does the touching but don’t touch him. Childhood trauma leaves him with a unlikely PTSD response to touch. Ryker’s no touching policy lead to interesting sexual encounters! Until the lovely social worker, Pia, decides to help him overcome his aversion and he’s game. These Vipers are not only vicious but when they find their woman it’s an insta. Insta lust, insta love and insta claim. This is a quick, easy read with a sexy romance that has an unusual twist. There’s also an emotional element with Pia’s work with foster kids and Ryker past. Plus Ryker is a badass that’s not afraid to get his hands bloody. He takes care of a few bad guys in a brutal fashion. Love the gritty parts! Great setup for the next story with Devil and one of Pia’s girls.
I read Wicked Warden as an introduction into a new MC. I wasn't really impressed with the book, and I was seriously debated on whether or not to continue the series. If they had been on KU, I probably wouldn't have thought twice. I just wasn't sure if I wanted to spend the money when the first book didn't hold my interest. However, there was something about Ryker's character that drew me in.
I am the type of reader that has to read in order, but Stone's book didn't interest me. I broke my own reading code - I skipped Stone's book and went straight to Ryker's. Best decision! I didn't feel like I missed anything, and I got a story that was more to my liking. Ryker doesn't want to be touched and won't let anyone get too close. Pia is his complete opposite and wants to save the world. The attraction is undeniable, but when Ryker takes things into his own hands, Pia will have to decide if she can live within the gray areas.
Ryker’s story was so touching, it was very emotional for me. In part because of his PTSD and with his lady Pia, helping foster kids. These are pretty much the realities in life.
Their meeting was accidental, they were at the right time and the right place, otherwise they may never have met. It was like fate for both of them.
Each lived through tough backgrounds but once they get to know each and confide in each other, they work through some of those things together.
I’m glad they both gave in to temptation, because they really were made for each other, their sizzling chemistry, and the fact that they want to love and be loved. I hope you take a chance on Ryker and Pia’s story.
His breath is all you'll ever feel. Ryker is the Vicious Vipers Sergeant at Arms who avoids touch at all costs. Unless its to fulfill the criminal side and take out one who thoroughly deserves his wrath. Ryker's entire existence is tested when he meets the woman with the fruit scent and eyes that seem to see his very soul. Pia has her own battle as she works to save kids tossed around in the foster system. Pia sees the wounds Ryker hides while holding out hope she will be the one to help him heal. Will their connection be enough to overcome the past or will Pia find herself lost and alone? Can Ryker accept that he, too, deserves happiness regardless of what he's done to protect the innocent?
For the first time ever in an MC book a heroine came in and claimed her man. Ryker? He's definitely broken, childhood trauma turns him into someone he doesn't like but uses anyway cause it gives him the drive he needs to survive. Pia is sweet passionate about life and her needs to help others that was just like her, but the minute she locked eyes with Ryker? It was a done deal, she claim that man as her own by being patient, sexy, basically everything he needs in order to breathe, I love Pia just for that. Pia saved that little broken boy inside Ryker and in doing that Ryker was reborn. This book is very emotional, you'll be a little bit sad but you will be smiling at the end. Thank You Author Lynn Burke for this amazing read.
Callous Criminal by Lynn Burke is book Three in the Vicious Vipers Series. This is the story of Pia and Ryker. I have read the previous books but feel this could be a standalone book if you wish to do so. Ryker has seen his fellow Vipers fall in love. Ryker never has had love really in his life and he issue from his childhood has made him not want to be touched by anyone. So is some aspects he is jealous of what they have but again he doesn't think he is someone who would ever want that closeness of being touched. Then he meets Pia who is a caring social worker who makes him feel things and want things he hasn't wanted before but he can't seem to allow her to touch him on the outside. Enjoyed readying their story.
Ryker's soul was beaten and broken found a new family for himself. Pia has a heart of gold that tries to protect the children in her care from hurts she suffered. Coffee is the great matchmaker. That is where the two first meet and boy was a first impression made. The first sex scene....f***ing A....hot as Hades itself. Their Chemistry is brighter than Sheldon's bunson burner. Not only is Pia the first person to touch his heart, but she is the first person he allowed to touch him period. I think he will be my book boyfriend of this series.
I love how the author not only touched our hearts with the side story of Dasia, but set us up for Dasia and Devil's story. So excited to read that story as well.
—>>> There are few things which register on Ryker’s radar besides his MC and coffee. But running into a stunning blonde named Pia while back home looking after his mother and sister brought back his yearnings of wanting more, especially now that two of his fellow bikers have fallen for the women in their lives. The road will not be easy as there are many obstacles ahead, but nobody is more capable of helping him overcome his childhood trauma than this golden-hearted social worker, who has a dark past of her own. Great story with plenty of heart-tugging and bad-boy steaminess as well as an enticing peek at something brewing for the next installment of this awesome series!
This is the 3rd book in this amazing series and is Ryker and Pia’s story. Ryker’s story is an emotional roller coaster journey throughout, and my heart broke for this tough enforcer who is not looking for any relationships as he cannot stand to be physically touched. Pia has also had a tough upbringing and uses this knowledge to help kids in the foster system. No spoilers: this is not an easy tale, but it is so worth reading! This is a well written story which is intense, raw, gritty, thrilling, and with drama, suspense and love. I was hooked and intrigued throughout this riveting tale and cannot wait to read more from this talented author.
Ryker!! Oh Ryker!! I have been waiting for your story... Ok I have read the other two books in the series, but there was just something about Ryker that called to me. He is tall, dark, broody, and oh so very yummy. His story is not an easy one and will play with your emotions. My emotions were all over the place while reading it. I will not go into detail on his story, because lets face it I would not being doing him any justice by spoiling it for you. Now Pia is a beautiful woman who is just perfect for Ryker. Have you ever heard of opposites attract? Well brace yourselves, because once you immerse yourself into this one that is exactly what you get.
Ryker and Pia were awesome, hot and an incredible pair. I am in love with this series I can't read them fast enough and yet I don't want them to end. Holy geez I'm addicted to this motorcycle club.....can one of them come take me away...hot as hell!!! Pia and Ryke r are both broken but yet need each other to fully heal. To live the he'll Ryke r lived felt like pure hell. I felt for him. Pia was patient and dealt with him, pushing his boundaries just enough to let her in. Loved this book.
Callous Criminal is book 3 in the Vicious Vipers series. Even though it can be read as a stand-alone I would suggest reading the other 2 first so you have a better view of the situation/characters. This book was interesting.
You get to meet Ryker and Pia, and understand why they fit so well together. On the outside you wouldn’t think they could be a couple but once you get to know them and their stories you know that love can do anything. It was very emotional, I really enjoyed it.
Two people with unbelievably ugly pasts. Pia and Ryker use their past hurts in different ways, Pia helps others and Ryker is a vigilante that seeks out people hurting others. These two complex people stumble upon one another and their lives get turned around in a beautiful way. I loved the growth of both these characters, and the undeniable chemistry between them. I enjoyed every single moment of this story.
There is just something about a broken MC that calls to me. Ryker might be the big bad biker with a broken past, but he is also the man that can make you swoon! The connection he has with Pia (FMC) is amazing. Ryker and Pia heave some serious heat as well! Their passion is intense and had me fanning myself more than a few times. Really enjoyed their story, and the depth of these characters. 4.5/stars TW/18+
I have to say I'm really loving this series. The first two books were really good but this one was awesome. I loved Ryker and his Little Lamb (Pia). The ups and downs, the suspense, the drama, I just loved it all!! Not gonna go into any details because I don't want to spoil anything but y'all really need to get this book!!!!
This intriguing series just keeps getting better and hotter!! Ryker and Pia are good for one another. They may seem like an odd pairing but they balance each other and if anyone can break through Ryker’s walls Pia is that girl. Will the dark and gritty alpha biker fall for his little lamb? Will Pia be able to break down Ryker’s walls enough for her to find a place in his heart?
Ryker is all man but can’t stand to be touched. His past still haunts his present but he wants more. Pia is so sweet and she really loves her job. One case brings these two together and boy do the sparks fly. I love the passion these two characters have for life. Excellent writing.