Grant's Flame

Shark's Edge #5

by Angel Payne, Victoria Blue

She’s the flame in his heart… He’s the heat she can't ignore…

Dependable and loyal to a fault, sexy bachelor Grant Twombley doesn’t usually find himself in the friend zone, but that’s the predicament he’s in now with headstrong and heartbroken Rio Gibson—who, with sexy sass and beguiling wit, hides her hobby-level thrill of lighting fires from everyone who cares about her.

On a private cruise from Southern California to Hawaii and back, Grant does everything in his power to heal Rio’s mind, body, and soul. But Rio continues to reject his persistence, despite her own growing desire for their passion. Even though her worst enemy continues to be her tangled, tormented mind.

When unexpected guests join the last leg of their journey, Rio must hold herself together long enough to bring everyone home safely. If she can’t rise to the challenge, she’s destined to watch all that her heart holds dear go up in smoke. Again.

Genres: Romance, Contemporary

300 pages, Paperback

First published March 9, 2021

About the author

Writerly sort, with angst + kissing + other stuff.
USAT Bestseller.
Passionate Traveler.
KPop Girlie (StayTiny, Engene, FOHA)
SoCal Girl.
Love is the best super power.

The other parts:
Books & their fun facts:

Lost Princes: Immortal rock stars, mafia, glam world travels

Speed Dating, Hercules and Apollo: Duet with modern mythology and angsty urban suspense

Blood of Zeus Series: Modern mythology, Dante-type hell dives, Professor/student, star-crossed love, fish out of water--and Brock O'Hurn covers!

Shark's Edge (Books 1-6): Glam family saga, romantic suspense, billionaires and their secrets, workplace shenanigans.

The Bolt Saga: Tony Stark meets Christian Grey. Super-powered hero meets sassy heroine for electric attraction. Bad guys follow. Body count rises. More "electric" fun.

Honor Bound: Military Doms and their headstrong heroines in romantic adventures across the globe.

The Cimarron Saga: Dark & brooding royal heroes on a Mediterranean island that's been sealed off from the world for 150 years.

Temptation Court: Cimarron spinoff set in modern-day New York. Yep; another dark & brooding hero too.

Secrets of Stone: Sweeping family saga with emotional twists and turns. And maybe a few "kissing parts". And maybe a little more than that...

Misadventures with a Time Traveler/Misadventures with a Duke: Time-traveling brothers in modern-day settings, meeting their destined loves.

Suited for Sin: High heat alphas who know how to knot more than a tie.

Reviews

[Syndi · Rating 3 out of 5]

Miss Payne has this knack availability to tell her story with hidding the red line until certain point in the story. I found her writing style is addicting. On her Shark's series, this writing style what draw me into the book.

In Grant's Flame, sadly, I can not stand Rio the heroine. Yes I know she has mental health issue, but her dramatic behavior is just too much. OTT. Too dramatic. Not necessary. Her character what makes me enjoying Grant's Flame less than 4 stars.
The book ends with cliffhanger. I still can not make up my mind to continue with the book or not.

3 stars

[Angel Payne]

UPDATE! We're so excited...you can now pre-order GRANT'S FLAME! be sure to add this one now so you'll have it right on release day in March 2021!
To pre-order:
Amazon: https://amzn.to/3e5fkXF
Print: https://amzn.to/3e3lxDu
Nook: https://bit.ly/32L84Mq
Apple Books: https://apple.co/37T8KT9
Google Play: https://bit.ly/34yN3Wv
Kobo: https://bit.ly/2G5S0MX

[Jessica Alcazar]

TEMPERATURES ARE RISING...

The Shark's Edge series continues with book five. Download Grant's Flame today!

Amazon: https://amzn.to/3e5fkXF
Print: https://amzn.to/3e3lxDu
Nook: https://bit.ly/32L84Mq
Apple Books: https://apple.co/37T8KT9
Google Play: https://bit.ly/34yN3Wv
Kobo: https://bit.ly/2G5S0MX

[Corinne Akers · Rating 5 out of 5]

Grant’s Flame

The long awaited 5th book of the Shark’s Edge Series, Grant’s Flame, was more than I ever expected it could be! With how book 4 ended, we the reader, have been left to contemplate where these brilliant women would take us next! The emotional journey that Rio has to take in this book is excruciatingly heartbreaking. Her self discovery is messy, difficult to read and liberating at the same time. So many of her a-ha moments resonated with me on some level. On some level, I believe many women experience these feelings self doubt and being out of control. This love story is complicated, messy, heartbreaking, romantic and full of so much love, your heart is sure to grow three sizes after reading it! To say that these women hit this one out of the park is an understatement! Breathtaking! Intense! Heartbreaking! Suspenseful! Uplifting! Romantic! Mind blowing! — Just some of the adjectives id use to describe this book! One of the most rewarding books I’ve read to date!! Thank you, ladies, for pouring your heart and soul into yet another amazing book!! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

[Carol Ann Doveatt · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book #5 in the incredible Shark's Edge series, and they do need to be read in order. This book continues the tumultuous, fiery journey of Rio Gibson, and Grant Twombley. They are two puzzle pieces that fit together despite their many differences. Grant is one amazing alpha who wants to keep Rio happy and safe. He is endearing in his plans to help the woman he loves, and is so sexy and swoon worthy. Every woman needs a Grant on their side. Rio is one complicated bundle of woman with some serious issues, yet her caring and tenacity with her innate sexiness make her one beautiful badass heroine. The character development is flawless! This story has been researched extremely well, and the writing captures the interest and doesn't let you go. What a delight to see these two mostly on their own, with the occasional visit with Robert the cat. I adore this couple with the problems they have faced and will face. Their chemistry is above and beyond HOT. They sizzle together both filling holes in their hearts. Holy stop your heart from beating, the cliffhanger is one phenomenal nails on the side of the cliff holding on for dear life, cliffhanger. I cannot wait to see what happens next to the dynamic duo in love. Thank you, Victoria and Angel for one exquisite delightful read.

[Desi Mullin-Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

If its been awhile since you read Grant's Heat, might want to re-read it so your caught up and have a nose dive into Grant's Flame.
This one continues to follow the journey of Rio and Grant. And while you will want to ring a few necks, **cough BAS!** you slowly get to the bottom of the torture Rio is going through in her own head.

However, in true Victoria Blue and Angel Payne fashion, they left us on a cliffhanger that not only baffles you but might also piss you off. Will everything fall into place? Will Rio survive? Will Grant survive? And lastly, how the hell does Bas get away with being a true... nvm I won't write that, but you get my point.
5 out of 5 stars without a doubt. I can not wait till the next one.

[Linda Dunn · Rating 5 out of 5]

I vow to never leave your side...

Grant and Rio's relationship is one of torment and intense passion. Rio needs someone who understands the mental torture she is experiencing with her feeling of loss. Grant wants to be that person for her. He is doing all he can to guide her back to her world before everything went horribly wrong. He takes Rio on a cruise with just the two of them hoping the serene setting will give her the quiet solitude she needs to work through her destructive issues without distractions. They both have intense passion for each other that they fight to try not to give into. It's a losing battle, their desire is too strong.

Unforeseen circumstances occur during their trip. Rio is challenged to either step up to the threat or return to her comfort zone and lose everything she loves. The gut-wrenching emotions in Grant and Rio's story will for sure leave you drained. I am going to try and patiently wait to see what happens next.

[Belle's Book Labyrinth · Rating 4 out of 5]

Grant's Flame is well written and you can see the authors poured their heart and soul into the story, especially when surrounding mental health. I loved Grant's Heat when we were introduced to Grant and Rio and this book picks up right after book 1. I will say I have a few mixed feelings with this one and I have a few issues with Rio. Grant though, is the kind of guy you want in your corner. He LOVES Rio and he will do anything to help her. He is loyal to a fault, cares so much for Rio and will do anything to prove this to her. I am excited for book 3 and can't wait to see what will happen next especially with that annoying thing we call a cliffhanger uuuugh! Great job ladies :)

[Nicki - The Overflowing Bookcase · Rating 5 out of 5]

With edge of your seat drama and high emotional overload this book should not be missed. From the opening pages until the very last paragraph Angel Payne and Victoria Blue prove once again that they can captivate the reader in an instant. Between Grant's need to protect Rio and Rios intense mental health abilities this book left me breathless. I so wanted them to get the HEA, but there is more than inner turmoil keeping these two apart. I cannot wait for the next book!!

[B. Milligan · Rating 5 out of 5]

There isn't a more alluring, riveting, brilliant book than this one!!
CAN I WAKE UP AND IT BE RELEASE DAY FOR THE NEXT BOOK!?

This book has more depth to Grant and Rio. You can see their relationship start to really blossom in this book as well. The build-up was strong and the cliffhanger was EVERYTHING! The writing was phenomenal and the storyline keeps getting better and better with each new book!

[Michelle Harris · Rating 5 out of 5]

This man can light him and me on fire anytime he wants to. The book isn’t even out yet and I’m already needing these two to hand over the next one! Talk about emotional overdrive.. I just don’t even know what to say at this point. It was everything I could have possibly needed it to be and so very much more. Yet at the same time not enough since I wasn’t ready for it to end. Why do I torture myself when I know my nerdy bookwhorish self will want more?! If you haven’t started this series (pleaseee read the Shark’s Edge trilogy first) yet, I’m not sure what you could possibly be waiting for. It’s amazing and I think my favorite series from these two and that’s saying a lot since I’m obsessed with them all. You’re welcome for this semi unuseful review that doesn’t really tell you much except TO READ IT. SERIOUSLY JUST READ THEM ALL.

[April Beatty · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book has.more or Rio and Grants story. He has saved her from so many things,and has now taken her away from everyone and everything. He shows her how much he can protect and give her what she needs. But is it enough? Can he help her through the anxiety and the pain of losing her husband? It has twist and turns you don't see coming. Well done ladies. Another fabulous book! Can't wait for the next book.

[Kika Medina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Perfect mix of emotions and chemistry.

This book is seriously amazing, it has a lot of emotion so many emotions, it wraps you around every page, every word, every tear and then there’s of course all the steamy moments, those are top of the thermostat hot.
And OMG Grant is a dream, he is everything, he is just as sweet as he is dominant, the chemistry between him and Rio is out of this world.
This book perfectly describes the struggles of mental health issues and how we fight to deal with them, Angel and Victoria did an amazing job with every aspect of what the characters are going through.

OMG the last chapter, really not what I was expecting, not in a million years would I had thought of that twist was coming.

[Angela · Rating 5 out of 5]

Grant sneaks Rio off to Hawaii for some much needed R &R.

On the way back to LA, Grant gets kidnapped by some pirates.

Can Rio do what Grant asked of her? Be Strong? Be Brave?

Giant's Flame was so hot, I thought I was going to burst into a flame myself.

You need a fan while reading this one ladies. I can give it nothing less than 5 stars.

[Christy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This installment digs deeper into Grant and Rio's relationship. As they become closer Grant gets kidnapped..... Rio has to figure out if she can stand on her own long enough to help get him back.

[Liz Aguirre · Rating 5 out of 5]

Grant is trying to protect Rio but she is facing her own demons. I love how no matter how much Rio challenges Grant, he doesn't give up on her. What an emotionally charged book that will keep you wondering what will happen next. The title is so fitting with everything Grant and Rio face in this 5th installment. Victoria Blue and Angel Payne have out done themselves again. The book is so well written that I can feel the emotion and intensity between the characters. A definite must read book that will leave you wanting more.

[Kimberly · Rating 5 out of 5]

OMG this book was as hot as the nickname BLAZE that Grant has for Rio. Angel Payne and Victoria Blue went above and beyond bringing out the chemistry these two obviously share. Their relationship is filled with pain and more pain. They struggle with their feelings for one another so close to the death of Rio's husband. She has extreme guilt because of the way she feels about Grant and I think it is because she didn't have those intense feelings for her husband. Their relationship was comfortable and Grant loves the fire in Rio no pun intended. He wants her to be herself and not hide but wants to protect her from those who do not understand and think she has gone a little off the deep end. (Abigail and Sebastian for starters) There were twist and turns that I will not spoil for those reading this but to end I cannot wait for the next book in this series. Thank you Angel and Victoria for another fabulous read.

[Kayleigh Confair · Rating 5 out of 5]

WOW!

Grant and Rio's attraction grows in this book. Grant saved Rio from the hospital, and he whisked her away on a yacht heading toward Honolulu. But trying to get Rio to understand how much Grant loves her and needs her to be well is a whole new ballgame. The attraction between them cannot be ignored.

Yet Rio is terrified.

Terrified of losing herself to her demons.
Terrified of letting Grant get too close.
Terrified of falling in love with him.

How can the two of them live and breathe without each other? The answer is simple: They can't. And when a terrifying night forces the two apart, Rio realizes that she'll have to face her demons head-on if she is to live without Twombley. Or will she go up in flames yet again?

THIS WAS AMAZING!

[Sharon Wingo · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once I started this book I couldn’t put it down. Grant and Rio have amazing chemistry and things sure get hot. Grant tries to help Rio through her mental health issues but Rio is in denial. They both ignore the chemistry as long as they can but eventually give in to the demands of their desires. Angel and Victoria continue to outdo themselves with the books they co-write! Definitely a book with all the feels, especially with the mental health issues being covered. I was lucky enough to receive an advance copy for my honest review. Can’t wait to get my hands on the next book.

[Karen Wright · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing! This story of Grant and Rio is off the chain. The chemistry is one for the record books. Grant tries to keep Rio from self destructing by taking her away from the madness. Rio is fighting demons-most recently her husbands death. Can she let Grant in and let him help her? Can Grant be the one to get Rio to see she is more than damaged goods. These two really can’t keep their hands off each other. One step forward than something triggers Rio and it’s one step back. Will this trip be everything and more to get Grant and Rio to see that maybe they can be together when they get back home or will the events of what happens pull them apart forever. This is a must read.

[Dawn · Rating 4 out of 5]

After helping her escape from the hospital, Grant whisks Rio away on a yacht to Hawaii. She still has to work through her issues but Grant is hoping to work on “them” too.
Opinion
What’s not to love about this book? A big strong man to help ease away your troubles? Sign me up, am I right? The whole book ends with a big cliff hanger on top of a cliff hanger sure to keep you coming back for book six.
A big thanks to Bare Naked Words for providing me with an ARC of this book.

[Jessica Jarvis · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been anxiously awaiting this book and it definitely did not disappoint. First of all, the chemistry between Rio and Grant is five alarm bell hot! I loved seeing the connection between the two of them grow. I also enjoyed seeing the two sides of each character. He, gentle and caring but also dominating. And she, broken and aggressive but also vulnerable. Angel and Victoria, I greatly loved this book and can not wait for Grant’s Blaze!

[Doris · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book hook me in. I am so in love with this series. The story line with Granr and Rio, has taken off , their love fir each other is real. He shows her what he can do for her, a love that has no bounds. The ending makes me need book 6 ASAP !!! AWESOME job Victoria Blue and Angel Payne ! Can't wait for book 6 !!!📖🔥📖🔥📖🔥📖🔥📖🔥📖🔥❤❤🐋🐋

[Lovely Loveday]

Grant's Flame is the fifth book in the Shark's Edge series by Angel Payne and Victoria Blue. A story full of hard-hitting emotions and steamy chemistry in this beautiful romance! The passion and heat are so hot it is sure to leave you wanting more. 

[Erica · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book started off exactly where the last one ended, making it seem as if no time had passed. Grant is in so deep with Blaze and he really is in over his head yet his passion for her can't seem to be controlled. Blaze is in need of help though and this story portrayed this all so well. I cannot wait for the next book to see what happens as there was a doozy of a twist I did not see coming!

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an awesome ride with these two. I loved the back forth that they had going on. And the end, can't wait to see how the cliffhanger resolves.

[Jessica Brittain · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was amazing!! Angel Payne and Victoria Blue did it again!! I didn't wanna put it down!! I continued to fall more in love the characters. I had all the feels even at the end of the book!! This series is a must read!! Can't wait for the next book!!

[Susan High · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book!! Grant & Rio are my absolute favorite. I can relate with Rio in more ways than most female leads in books. Victoria & Angel are knocking out out of the park with their story. I'll be over here impatiently waiting for the next book.

[Amanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Blazing heat

Yall.... ugh. I cannot even. I cannot even form words. This book stole so many tears. So many screams. So many annoyed sighs. So many laughs. So many more tears. Rio is just... ugh. Bless her poor little heart. The agony she feels. The people she trusts the most turning on her. The feeling so alone in your own house. In your own skin even. I just want to hug her.
Grant is the literal best. Can I have a guy like Grant? Because umm... GOALS.
Thst ending has me clutching my pearls and praying that time hurries up. I cannot even.
Perfection.

[Crystal Stafford · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have alot of mixed feelings about Grants Flame. I honestly have been back and forth with this review for days. I love Angel and Victoria and still love and will continue with this series but I have to highlight my likes as well as I'm dislikes. What I loved about this book was the writing, always phenomenal writing between these two fantastic authors. I also loved the chemistry because this book was freaking HOT! Rio and Grant have always had a strong connection and passion and it's only grown from a spark to a roaring fire. You can definitely feel the emotion and love throughout the whole book. And finally the characters are as always amazing.
Grant is everything you want in a hero. He seems to have no faults and I adore him. He is completely devoted to helping Rio in every aspect so he now finds himself smack dab in the middle of the Pacific isolated from his life. It is sould touching to see just how loyal of a man he is. Rio is complex and has so much sass and is a powerhouse of a woman. She deserves happiness and healing and is truly in for a fight. And lastly the ending! I was hoping like hell there would be some action and this book and we certifianly did get it eith that cliff hanger ending.
With that said and with my likes highlighted first and foremost I still need to point out my dislikes. I thought after a year wait for this addition to the Shark Series we would get more. More action, more answers, more than just Rio and Grant on a boat. Most of this series is high drama with lots of twists and I felt like this book was just a dull roar. I'm sure this is all part of the master plan and maybe this book was just was meant to give us and the characters a break. Also I'm beyond frustrated with the bashing and bad mounting of Bas and Abbi. I don't get why they need to be demonized and I am mad for them. They are important and likeable characters but it feels like we are supposed to hate them right now and I don't see the point in that. I am still Team Shark!! And lastly I am sad that with all the work Rio and Grant have accomplished along the way to see Rio right back to where she started at the very end.
This is an extremely well written book and the detail is great. I will anxiously be eating for the next book and hope for lots of page turing shocks and answers!