High Risk

Point of No Return #1

by Brenna Aubrey

Description and cover reveal coming soon!

Genres: Romance, Military Fiction, Contemporary Romance, Contemporary, Amazon, Adult

1007 pages, ebook

First published October 9, 2018

About the author

★✩★✩★ Signup for Brenna's mailing list for all the exclusives ★✩★✩★ : http://brenna.news
Smart is Sexy
Brenna Aubrey is a USA TODAY Bestselling Author of contemporary romance stories. Her debut novel, At Any Price, is currently free on all platforms. Her books are on over a million e-readers worldwide. They've also been translated into German, French, Italian, Dutch and adapted into an interactive app game!

She has always sought comfort in good books and the long, involved stories she weaves in her head. Brenna is a city girl with a nature-lover’s heart. She therefore finds herself out in green open spaces any chance she can get. She currently resides on the west coast of the US with her husband and children (both human and furry).

Reading Order
THE POINT OF NO RETURN SERIES available now!
High Risk
High Reward

THE GAMING THE SYSTEM SERIES: available now!
At Any Price
At Any Turn
At Any Moment
For the Win
For the One
Worth Any Cost
It Was Always You
For The Taking
For The Holidays
Take Any Chance

The Gaming The System series is complete

Reviews

[Brenna Aubrey]

High Risk, the first book in Ryan & Gray's Duet, is AVAILABLE NOW!

Purchase links: http://www.brennaaubrey.net/books/hig...

High Reward, book 2, is also available now everywhere.

Last teaser: "That Kiss"


CLICK HERE to read an excerpt, introducing Ryan & Gray. Off the charts chemistry.

3rd Teaser: "Glacier & Mountain"


2nd Teaser: "Awaken Her"


First Teaser!! "American Hero"


REVIEWERS...I'd SO appreciate a review on the BookBub site when you have time: https://www.bookbub.com/books/high-ri...

BLOGGERS! Sign up to be on my promotional list for bloggers ---> https://goo.gl/yyxfh6

[Annuccia Palmeri · Rating 4 out of 5]

4++ Ancora una volta Brenna Aubrey mi stupisce con un'ambientazione particolare, stavolta esploriamo il mondo della Nasa e degli astronauti. All'inizio ho faticato per entrare nel mood ma poi come sempre mi succede con l'autrice ho ingranato e le pagine scorrevano via via. È una dilogia quindi si completerà con il prossimo, vedremo se Ryan cederà al ricatto pur di tornare nello spazio o se punterà tutto sull'amore per Gray.

[Sally · Rating 4 out of 5]

Primo romanzo che leggo di Brenna Aubrey ed inizialmente ho fatto fatica ad ingranare con la lettura, poi man mano diventa più scorrevole.
Sullo sfondo della storia permane un evento drammatico che tocca da vicino Ryan e che lo segnerà per tutto il resto della serie. Ma anche Gray non ha avuto un'infanzia e parte dell'adolescenza come tutte le altre ragazze a causa di un grave problema.

Per quanto riguarda la relazione tra Ryan e Gray, l'ho trovata dolce e passionale, però devo confessare che non mi ha coinvolta emotivamente. Purtroppo non ho sentito le farfalle nello stomaco. Mi aspettavo di trovare una relazione più matura date le età dei protagonisti (lui 35 e lei 25) invece Gray si approccia all'uomo in maniera adolescenziale, questo però ha un suo perché che viene spiegato da lei stessa. Sicuramente si tratta di un problema mio, cercavo un altro tipo di relazione, per questo ho deciso di non inficiare la mia valutazione in maniera negativa.
Devo anche dire che non mi ha convinta pienamente nemmeno l'operato di Gray in alcuni punti nell'aiutare Ryan con i suoi problemi. Ho avuto l'impressione che abbia fatto sopraffare un approccio emotivo su quello clinico da psicologa.
Però, mi ha affacinata molto l'ambito legato allo spazio e al lavoro di astronauta.
Resta comunque un bel romanzo con un colpo di scena finale che potrebbe smuovere le acque nel secondo volume!

[Vicky Sp · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gray è una psicologa che dovrà lavorare a stretto contatto con Ty, per ristabilire la sua immagine pubblica che dovrà essere ripulita dagli eccessi degli ultimi tempi. Ryan è un astronauta, un comandante che vive di sensi di colpa dopo il tragico incidente accorso al suo migliore amico Xander, quando erano in missione nello spazio e per il quale perde il lavoro. Già il primo capitolo che parla di questo, mi ha straziato il cuore. La vita di Ty dopo quanto accaduto è cambiata: feste, donne, devastazioni nelle camere d'albergo. Finché non gli viene data la speranza di tornare a volare. Gray è una professionista del settore, curerà la sua immagine e si occuperà dell' aspetto psicologico del trauma subito, ma non sarà immune al suo fascino: "Quell’uomo era una leggenda vivente, un famoso e sexy astronauta, un eroe." Ty ha tremendi incubi e paurose fobie.
«Che cos’è che ti terrorizza, Ryan? Che cosa vedi al buio?» "Il lato lontano del pianeta, quando è notte, è molto buio. Durante il giorno la terra è quella palla brillante, luminosa, azzurra e bianca, ma durante la notte, si vedono macchie di luce che delineano le città, ma il nero dello spazio, la stazione scura sopra, fa paura." Inoltre continuamente, sente nelle orecchie il suono strozzato delle parole di Xander, lì nello spazio.
Un racconto originale, scritto e tradotto molto bene, infatti le paure, le emozioni dei personaggi, come pure i semplici pensieri, sono arrivati tutti. E poi è la prima volta che leggo una trama con gli astronauti. Anche il bellissimo Adam Drake, proprietario della società di realtà virtuale, fa la sua comparsa.

[Mariagcri · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stelline..
Molto bello,quest' autrice è veramente brava..ha uno stile di scrittura che coinvolge,tanto da sembrare di vivere tutto cio'che accade ai protagonisti.. ti trascina all'interno con loro..
Una storia diversa dal solito...e'il primo affascinante astronauta di cui leggo...😍compreso il mondo "stellare" che ne consegue...

[Princess under cover · Rating 3 out of 5]

I've read enough. DNF @ 20%. I still rate it 3 stars bc I know having read this much that it's about 3 stars. Can only get lower from here on.

Writing isn't bad, it's just slow build and not all that interesting.

Hero is a prick (we know why, but seems like he's been a prick even before the accident). And @ 20% the H/h is finally just getting started in their ACQUAINTANCESHIP, never mind relationship. Tooooo slow!

AND, the H just finished banging another girl... while the h was sitting outside listening, cuz he blew her off for their appointment.

Yep, the H is a manwhore. Really hate those. So, don't care enough to continue.

[Sweet Spot Sisterhood Book Lover's Blog · Rating 5 out of 5]

An absolute must-read! I love this storyline... the broken, suffering astronaut hero, the young psychologist trying to fulfill her dream... Ryan and Gray (short for Gracie) seem meant for each other. However, there are many difficulties, peer dynamics, and even ultimatums that lie in their midst that make this a challenge. I’m left teetering on the edge to see what lies ahead for Ryan and Gray, and what choices will be made that will change their future.

reviewed by Sweet Spot Sisterhood

[Leggere Romanticamente · Rating 5 out of 5]

Recensione sul blog qui --> https://www.leggereromanticamente.com...

[Machian5 · Rating 4 out of 5]

Molto bello e insolita l'ambientazione.

[A Book Obsessed Brit · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was my first read by Brenna Aubrey and one I enjoyed. High Risk gave me a hero and heroine in professions I haven't come across before. Brenna did a fantastic job with her research, making the facts and description of everything aeronautical based relevant and informational yet not overwhelming or confusing.

The story centres around Ryan Tyler an ex Navy SEAL Commander, now an active astronaut, at 35 he is in his prime. However a tragedy that kicks off this book (and had me in tears) causes Ryan to loose control of everything he has worked so hard for. 12 months on and now part of a private company wanting to send it's own astronauts into space, he ends up agreeing to be the poster boy for the funding campaign. Here is where we meet our heroine Gray Barrett.

Gray is a soon to be qualified Psychologist, at 25 she is finishing up her doctorate. Using her lifelong fascination with all things space related to complete her studies by being a part of the health team for the cosmonauts.

Gray and Ryan are so different, yet they balance each other perfectly. Ryan finds a comfort in her that he wasn't expecting, with Gray finding a strength and confidence from him. Their slow burn romance allowed the back story to build and create a good grounding ready for everything that is coming our way in book 2.

Brenna included characters I didn't think I was going to like, that ended up totally surprising me, and a couple that I thought I would like that by the end I was not so sure of. High Risk was something new and fresh to build a romance novel around. It kept my interest with strong and likeable leading characters and a great level of chemistry that popped off the page. With the little kicker thrown in at the end, the happily for now decision surprised me and I am very curious to see how it all plays out in High Reward.

[Stacey Timmons · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my freaking god!! I loved this book. I couldn't get enough of Ryan and Gray. The feels I had while reading this book was ridiculous. Especially for Ryan. My god he's had a very tough year! And Gray? Well she has had a tough life. But she's come out stronger than ever.

Brenna had me at the first chapter and that chapter was devastating. Man, I had tears in my eyes and that doesn't happen often. So, well done, Brenna.

I loved the chemistry between Gray and Ryan. I loved the fact that she didn't take any messing from him. But she also has a very great understanding of what Ryan feels and what he needs, even before he does.

I can't wait to read the next book to see where this goes. And all the little bits in between.

It does end in a cliffhanger so if that is not your thing, wait until the second book is released. But I think you should read this book now and maybe a couple of times more until the second book is released. You won't be disappointed. I have to say towards the end, I really didn't like Gray's father and what he said to Ryan. It's Gray's life, let her live it and determine whether or not she's made a mistake herself. (I totally don't think she has)

I just want to gush loads about this book but it will just spoil it, so read it and enjoy!!!

[Donna Was A Scandal · Rating 4 out of 5]

Everyone loves a hot astronaut! Check out Carmela's full review on Scandalicious Book Reviews:

http://bit.ly/2Ow0vUR

[Pamela Lilley · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved the synopsis for this book and I really felt for Ryan, he was an emotional wreck, with so many issues. Issues he was not willing to share with psychologist Gray Barrett, a true wolf in sheep’s clothing, not quite the walkover she could have been. Strong hearted (in so many ways), I loved her. I loved her honesty, and I loved her strength. Ryan too, saw all her plus points, and used them to his advantage (not in a cruel way I might add). Although it took me quite a few chapters to feel invested in Ryan, Gray, and their “relationship”, I was eventually hooked, getting excited for their happy ever after. I should have done my homework a bit more though, it’s book 1 of a duet, a cliffie no less. It would appear I’m going to have to wait a few more weeks for what I’m hoping will be their HEA, because honestly, they both deserve it. Excellent writing and an interesting storyline. I received an advanced copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. This is my honest opinion.

[S Knoll · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve always been a fan of Brenna Aubrey’s writing and this book certainly did not let me down. It’s a whole new series for her with a focus on the space program. What I love about this books is that it is so different than so many of the romance books out there. Her characters are very real. Full of flaws, imperfections and hang ups which make them completely relatable and human. Ryan and Gray are opposites in many ways but very much alike in others and together they just make sense. The writing is flawless and you get some really interesting supporting characters that we can hope get their own story someday. The whole space premise is a new spin and the first chapter just sucks you in and leaves you wanting to read more. Definitely worth a read.

[Hopelessly Addicted To Books · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the first book in a duet and it's a book I would happily recommend. I've read lots of military books but this is the first astronaut story one and what a refreshing change. With no warning chapter one threw me into a tailspin, I had chills as I read.

I adored Gray so much she is such a strong warm loving character who despite everything in her life is a fighter. If you could look in Ryan's eyes you would see a tortured man guilt and duty are eating him alive. The fragile trust in their relationship grows stronger the more time they signs together. The sexual tension is palpable who could resist?

The story has it all danger excitement angst and it's a duet so prepare for a killer hangover.


reviewed by Sweet Spot Sisterhood

[Jess · Rating 2 out of 5]

This is a weirdly descriptive book (I don't visualize and I kept bumping on all of the descriptions) and it ends on a cliffhanger where the heroine's father has threatened the hero to stay away and that irritates me so much that I can't imagine reading the second book in the duology. Just a super bad trope for me.

[Truusje · Rating 2 out of 5]

Not bad, but not very good either. I liked the astronaut setting, but I never believed in the romance between Gray and Ryan. And I'm so done with "she's different from all those other women I slept with". She was a virgin of course.
Cliffhanger.

[Coco.V]

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[Mandy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brenna Aubrey has done it again. Following on from the amazing 'Gaming the System' series, she brings us two new enigmatic characters in the form of Gray Barrett and Ryan Tyler.

As a little, Gray dreamed about space, rockets, planets and astronauts, unfortunately she dreamed of them all from the confines of a hospital bed. Now as a grown woman her dream of working with astronauts is within her grasp.  Gray is an almost qualified psychologist who works for Xventure, the company that makes rockets and the first to devise a commercial program to send astronauts into space, known as XPAC. 

Commander Ryan Tyler is the fallen-from-grace hero who has spent the past year in a haze of drunken parties and women.  As the new face of XPAC he needs to clean up his act and the dubious task is placed in the unwilling hands of Gray.  The time they spend together gradually brings them closer as Ryan finds that his former life is not what he wants or needs.  What he needs is Gray, but can he keep hold of her? 

Gray is the quiet, geeky, nerd girl.  She is not impervious to the charms and looks of Commander Ryan Tyler but she does put up a strong fight to resist him.  When Gray moves into his house to 'babysit' him, Ryan needs to find ways of distracting her...sleeping with her should work but she doesn't fall at his feet like most women do.  There is also something that has happened in the past between Gray and Ryan that Gray remembers but Ryan doesn't.  It is a recurring point throughout the book but is not revealed, I am guessing we will find out what this secret is in the next book.  

Great to see the familiar character of Adam Drake pop up in this story.  There are also lots of other great characters, Pari, Victoria, Tolan, Kirill and not forgetting the lovely Keely. Keely was a surprise, I thought I was going to hate her character for the part she is playing, but she is actually really sweet and knows the feelings that Gray and Ryan have for each other, can't help but like her. 

If you have never read the 'Gaming the System' series, I can highly recommend it but it is not vital to have read it before you read this series. For anyone who likes their men hot, their women strong and whole lot of sci-fi book and film references thrown in together then you will love this.   The book finishes on a bit of a cliffhanger and I am now on tender-hooks having to wait another 2 months to find out what happens! 

[Caroline F · Rating 5 out of 5]

LOVED THIS BOOK! I've added astronaut to my Christmas list!

"Though he made my insides tingle, I knew he was someone from whom I needed to stay far, far away."

Commander Ryan Tyler's life has spiralled downwards since he lost his best friend in the worst possible way. His public image is that of an All-American Hero but its sheen has been tarnished by his less-than-savoury escapades. His cocky and devil-may-care facade hides a damaged man with a secret truth. He's desperate for some inner peace and also desperate to keep his promise to his friend.

"That scares you, doesn't it? To be noticed. It's safer when you're invisible."

Gray Bennett has a dream - a dream that kept her going through tough times growing up. However, to make her dream come true, she's expected to babysit a man who doesn't even remember that he's met her before. She knows he has issues and that he prefers to drown them in women and booze. He's gorgeous and intriguing, and definitely someone to stay clear of. She's a rule-follower and he's a rule-breaker. Nonetheless, the more time they spend together, he can see the real her, just as clearly as she can see the real him.

"There was an absolute pull between us - like an inescapable orbit. Gravity."

I just loved this story so much! I was drawn to the storyline of an astronaut - it's a definite first for me. Ryan is all sorts of broken. He's a complete jerk to Gray at first, although he recognises an immediate attraction to her. My heart squeezed when he realises things about her and his protective instinct to keep her safe catch him off guard. Gray is a fantastic character. She might look really young but she's very mature. She's smart, perceptive and knows how to defuse a potentially explosive situation. I loved her sweetness and her courage.

The relationship between them really appealed to the romantic in me. Ryan might not want Gray to try and fix him, but I loved that her presence in his life calmed his demons and brought him contentment and peace. Both were exploring new uncharted territory with their relationship. I'm so excited for the concluding story!

[Shelley · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first book in the Point of No Return Duet. It can be read as a standalone, with a happy for now except this problem cliffhanger that will make you want to read book two, High Reward, released December 6, 2018.

The story opens introducing our hero, Ryan Tyler, American Astronaut on his mission aboard the International Space Station with 5 other astronauts and cosmonauts. He is left making a life altering decision for the greater good by his command. Back on Earth, he can't find peace with himself and starts down a dark road of alcohol and women for comfort from his demons. NASA has had him on a talk circuit, but they just handed him his walking papers. His only shot at returning to space is XVenture, a privately funded company, that has been working in low orbit payloads and now wants to expand into human space exploration, if they can just get the financial backing.

This is where our brilliant, somewhat geeky, sassy heroine, Gray Barrett, enters the picture. She is almost done with her PhD in psychology with an emphasis on flight psychology. She is the only child of one of the uber wealthy investors being wooed by XVenture. His demand? Keep Ryan "Ty" Tyler on the straight and narrow for the next few months until the test flight and he will back XVenture, allowing Gray to keep her dream job.

The two are unwillingly thrown together and try to make the most of it. Ryan and Gray's chemistry starts as a slow burn but rapidly hits rocket fuel incendiary heat levels. They are the perfect combination of reluctant damaged and hopeful promise. Along their journey, they become critically important to each other. Time will tell if their new feelings and relationship can stand the challenges about to be put before them.

[Danielle Thomasson Dillard · Rating 5 out of 5]

It was a real blast off!!!! Lots of tension and build. And the good parts were mind-blowing or you could say out of this world. Love Brenna's new couple. Can't wait for High Rewa rd.

It was a real blast off!!!! Lots of tension and build. And the good parts were mind-blowing or you could say out of this world. Love Brenna's new couple. Can't wait for High Reward.

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Disclaimer: I received this book as an ARC from the author in return for my honest review...

Brenna delivered yet another gem with this book. The way she writes her characters makes it so easy to relate to. Each of her characters are scarred/flawed in some manner. She doesn't try to make her characters sound like they lived the most idyllic life. I love that about her writing. The research she puts into her writing makes the story even more relatable. Brenna has never disappointed me, and honestly, I doubt she ever could.

Ty is a scarred man in so many ways. He uses whatever means possible to crown out those evil internal dialog that haunts him following the death of his best friend. Gray, being someone who has been through hell and back since she was born. She doesn't let that effect her sheer determination to do her best in everything she puts her mind to.

Do yourself a favor and read this story, and just think, in December 2018, part 2 is coming out. I am already counting down the days!

[Amy Mccann · Rating 5 out of 5]

**CRAZY CAJUN BOOK ADDICTS BLOG**

Such a fantastic book Ryan and Gray are spectacular characters both have had a rough time at some points in their lives, the first chapter is a total heart wrencher that left me with a lump in my throat.

The characters have great chemistry and Gray's totally understanding and compassionate towards Ryan and I love how she reaches out to him.

Gary's dad is a total douchebag who thinks he can dictate but its time she pulled up her big girl panties and let herself be lovely woman she is.

I can't wait to read the next book in the series and see where things lead!

It ends on a cliff-hanger so I'm hoping we don't have to wait to long for the next book, Brenna Aubrey is a new author to me but I'm no a huge fan.

[Rose David · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ryan and Gray are your unlikely pair.
Ryan an fired from NASA astronaut.
Gray a woman who would love nothing more than to go into space, but unable to due to health.
After Gray is assigned to babysit Ryan, she finds herself in an awkward position. Ryan had turned into an out of control play boy. But she finds out he’s also a remarkable person with many dark demons.
The pair come together in the most unlikely way. Gray wants to know more and Ryan wants nothing more than to forget.
I absolutely loved this book. And that end!! Can’t wait for the conclusion of this duet!
Ryan and Gray are a romance for the stars!

[Naomi · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Houston we have a problem..." I really need book 2! We are left with a cliff hanger, but that is part of the excitement. I love how Brenna Aubrey writes strong nerdy women, and who can not love a cocky but wounded astro-hottie! I'm a total space nerd, so Ryan gave me all the feels! The sexual tension between him and Gray ignited the pages! I really hope in book 2 we get more of Pari and Gray's friendship. I love the bond they have, and get a good laugh when Pari shows up.
I can't wait till book 2 comes out, it is definitely on my next read list!

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brenna has somehow managed to take her writing to the next level. I immediately became immersed in “High Risk” and have to say her evolution as a writer is simply incredible to witness. If there was a Romance sub-genre called Sapiosexual Romance, this book would definitely appear in that category. Her writing provided such a great escape in the form of a work so real I felt like a voyeur as I read. Warning: Do not even think about reading the first page unless you have a half a day at your disposal. Now, to wait until December when “High Reward” is released [sigh]...

[Dalya Mamadou · Rating 5 out of 5]

I never ever think a story about an astronaut will hook me up this bad. Tyler Ryan is an astronaut who have issues he won’t talk about but want to fly again so bad he is ready to open up about them to Gray Barrett who is not just the shrink he will have to work with but also the daughter of one of the biggest investors. Investor who will allow him to fly again. But he never except what opening up to her will bring.

Ryan and Gray will make you redefine the expression “sexual tension”, this book is week writing with just that zest of nerd and hotness. Definitely a must read.

[Anastasia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Whatever you’re doing, stop and read this book RIGHT NOW!

High Risk is the latest from the brilliant mind of Brenna Aubrey and I think she gets better with each book. These characters have the depth and development I’ve come to expect from Ms Aubrey and their story captivated from the very first page.

High Risk has it all - hot astronauts, a sassy heroine, a healthy dose of angst, and a unique storyline - what’s not to love?! Do yourself a favour and get this book now!

[Sammi Dyer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great read by Brenna Aubrey. She has a way of wrapping you up nice and tight with her storyline. The chemistry Between Ryan and Gray was fantastic and will be carried on in the next book, which I'm so out of this world excited about. I can't wait to see what is next and highly recommend reading this book.