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Sundance #3.5
Expired
An assassin goes into a bar...
Actually, she buys the bar. A truckstop town bar called the Dusty Cactus Saloon. Now, if everyone will stop asking for her help, she might actually find some time to run the damn thing.
A full-length novel from Chandra's point of view. Just a little shorter than Neely's books. Full description coming soon!
You don't have to have read the other books in the Sundance series to understand this one, but it's helpful.
Actually, she buys the bar. A truckstop town bar called the Dusty Cactus Saloon. Now, if everyone will stop asking for her help, she might actually find some time to run the damn thing.
A full-length novel from Chandra's point of view. Just a little shorter than Neely's books. Full description coming soon!
You don't have to have read the other books in the Sundance series to understand this one, but it's helpful.
248 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 19, 2021
132 people are currently reading
156 people want to read
About the author
C.P. Rider
19 books338 followersC.P. Rider has worked as a decorative and mural painter, a fitness instructor, and a background investigator for nuclear power plants, all of which prepared her in strange and different ways for writing paranormal and urban fantasy romance.
Originally from the California southwestern desert, she now lives a little closer to the ocean with her family, including 3 dogs, a cat, 2 fish, and the occasional friendly ghost.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
June 12, 2021
4.25 - I absolutely love these characters!
March 22, 2021
❝ Relationships are like milk. When the milk is fresh, it's delicious. But the second it expires, it's bad forever. There's no turning spoiled milk back to fresh. ❞Expired gives us a deeper look at Chandra, Lucas' second, which I enjoyed. I liked this, but nowhere near as much as the other main Sundance installments. It was a bit frustrating and odd that this was released after Shattered since it frequently referenced Neely's difficulty dealing with the events of that book. It's definitely numbered correctly, as #3.5 between Sabotaged and Shattered, I just happened to read them in publication order, which wasn't best.
March 25, 2021
Loved it!
I just can't seem to get enough of this series and of the wonderful characters CP Rider has created! I was going to say Chandra is one of my favorites but really they all are. I love these side stories that really round out this universe. Keep the stories coming!!
I just can't seem to get enough of this series and of the wonderful characters CP Rider has created! I was going to say Chandra is one of my favorites but really they all are. I love these side stories that really round out this universe. Keep the stories coming!!
March 24, 2021
It’s great to be back in the town of Sundance. Instead of reading a story from the perspective of Neely or Lucas, “Expired” is Chandra the ex-assassin’s tale. This book was so refreshing on several levels because it answers many questions that I had about Chandra’s past and provided some interesting insight into some of the other supporting characters.
Chandra is working hard to get her bar, The Dusty Cactus Saloon renovated to open when she receives a message from her ex-girlfriend, Cynthia. It seems Cynthia’s niece is missing and Cynthia wants Chandra’s help. The fact that they departed on less than ideal terms does not deter Cynthia in the least.
In order to located the girl, Chandra will have to go into La Paloma, the territory of alpha who is not a fan of Lucas Blacke. Chandra, Neely and the witch Fiera aren’t tolerated due to their diversity in species but the alpha’s son, Ronan is put in charge is escorting Chandra around. We gain insight into his humble beginnings and I have to say a story could be written centered on his character alone.
This read was full of crazy and fun characters, kick butt action and some budding romantic interests. I especially enjoyed the antics of one of the crazy garden gnomes as well as the trolls. Most of all, I was glad to find out the details of the break up between Chandra and Cynthia. Is you haven’t put this series on your to read list, you are missing out on a good time.
Chandra is working hard to get her bar, The Dusty Cactus Saloon renovated to open when she receives a message from her ex-girlfriend, Cynthia. It seems Cynthia’s niece is missing and Cynthia wants Chandra’s help. The fact that they departed on less than ideal terms does not deter Cynthia in the least.
In order to located the girl, Chandra will have to go into La Paloma, the territory of alpha who is not a fan of Lucas Blacke. Chandra, Neely and the witch Fiera aren’t tolerated due to their diversity in species but the alpha’s son, Ronan is put in charge is escorting Chandra around. We gain insight into his humble beginnings and I have to say a story could be written centered on his character alone.
This read was full of crazy and fun characters, kick butt action and some budding romantic interests. I especially enjoyed the antics of one of the crazy garden gnomes as well as the trolls. Most of all, I was glad to find out the details of the break up between Chandra and Cynthia. Is you haven’t put this series on your to read list, you are missing out on a good time.
April 1, 2021
A big thing I have come to expect from the Sundance series is effortless inclusion, diversity and highlighting things like consent. This book was no different. It was a novella but a well woven story that involved, yes an alphahole wolf who had done someone wrong. For a chance it was not Neely who was the victim and Chandra never is.
Loved ogres, that one is new for this genre and I have read a lot of this genre. The idea of cross breeds being attractive for the power they bring was a continuing trend in the books. I still enjoyed the story. I enjoyed learning that Chandra actually does have indian roots and not a name that was randomly assigned. I loved having a part indian ex assassin hyena as the central character. I loved the friendships that were fostered between women, the depth of the relationship and growth of characters.
There was a lot packed in for a novella and I thoroughly enjoyed it. The book didnt skimp on story telling, world weaving or any of it simply because it was a novella.
My only issue and it is a minor issue maybe only for me. This novella was released out of order. I couldnt read it before the last book and even though there really isnt an impact on this book or that(other then the Dusty Saloon being fully functional and open in that book), it still bugs me because I read it out of order.
So now that this novella is out, if you plan on reading the series, read this before the next Neely book that is already out.
Loved ogres, that one is new for this genre and I have read a lot of this genre. The idea of cross breeds being attractive for the power they bring was a continuing trend in the books. I still enjoyed the story. I enjoyed learning that Chandra actually does have indian roots and not a name that was randomly assigned. I loved having a part indian ex assassin hyena as the central character. I loved the friendships that were fostered between women, the depth of the relationship and growth of characters.
There was a lot packed in for a novella and I thoroughly enjoyed it. The book didnt skimp on story telling, world weaving or any of it simply because it was a novella.
My only issue and it is a minor issue maybe only for me. This novella was released out of order. I couldnt read it before the last book and even though there really isnt an impact on this book or that(other then the Dusty Saloon being fully functional and open in that book), it still bugs me because I read it out of order.
So now that this novella is out, if you plan on reading the series, read this before the next Neely book that is already out.
March 15, 2025
Chandra Smith is the 2nd in command in the Blacke group, she is also an ex-assassin, nicer than she seems and no one to mess around with. She is also the new owner of the local bar which is being fixed up with help from Earl.
When her ex, Cynthia, asks her to look into a missing girl, Lena, Chandra originally says no but can’t really help herself and has to help out. The search for Lena and her boyfriend Sage raises many questions.
With some help from Fiera, the fire witch, and Neely she starts investigating. Unable to get much information before she is advised that Fiera and Neely must leave, Chandra tries to get something from the local security but again nothing. She finally gets some help from a few locals but it’s certainly not easy.
Discovering that Ogre magic is involved in the disappearance, things get really interesting.
This book has action, magic, surprises, humour and a bit of mystery.
This doesn’t have to be read with the rest of the Sundance series although it has characters from the main series.
This was a really enjoyable book and if I didn’t like Chandra before I sure would now.
When her ex, Cynthia, asks her to look into a missing girl, Lena, Chandra originally says no but can’t really help herself and has to help out. The search for Lena and her boyfriend Sage raises many questions.
With some help from Fiera, the fire witch, and Neely she starts investigating. Unable to get much information before she is advised that Fiera and Neely must leave, Chandra tries to get something from the local security but again nothing. She finally gets some help from a few locals but it’s certainly not easy.
Discovering that Ogre magic is involved in the disappearance, things get really interesting.
This book has action, magic, surprises, humour and a bit of mystery.
This doesn’t have to be read with the rest of the Sundance series although it has characters from the main series.
This was a really enjoyable book and if I didn’t like Chandra before I sure would now.
March 20, 2021
Great read!
I love reading back or side stories about other characters besides MC’s. It fleshes out the entire world, and this is a fantastic example. Chandra is force to be reckoned with, yet a supremely loyal, thoughtful, and considerate woman and shifter, and reading from her perspective is a pleasure. A bit gruesome at times, but always interesting. Helping her friends and her exes family is a no brainer to her, so seeing her edge onto another path of discovery is like watching a friend succeed. One thing I love about this series is the inclusivity within the group. The lack of classism, speciesism, racism, homophobia and any other bigoted behaviour is something to admire. We could all be more Blacke.
I love reading back or side stories about other characters besides MC’s. It fleshes out the entire world, and this is a fantastic example. Chandra is force to be reckoned with, yet a supremely loyal, thoughtful, and considerate woman and shifter, and reading from her perspective is a pleasure. A bit gruesome at times, but always interesting. Helping her friends and her exes family is a no brainer to her, so seeing her edge onto another path of discovery is like watching a friend succeed. One thing I love about this series is the inclusivity within the group. The lack of classism, speciesism, racism, homophobia and any other bigoted behaviour is something to admire. We could all be more Blacke.
August 8, 2021
Another great story with humor and action, and a chance to let Neely heal while we entertain ourselves with a story for Chandra.
Its different, seeing it thru her eyes, but still interesting and did I mention funny? I did? Because it is- the banter between Neely and Lucas (not as much for this story but what was there was great), Chandra and Earp, the witches and especially new witch Betty. It was really funny to hear about the gnome that kept causing havoc and leading an uprising. Very original.
This one deals with yet another pack with an alphahole and the things people do to try to fix their lives for the better to only have it get worse. The ogres were a nice touch and I liked how Chandra has found her bar. Her home. We will see about Fiera?
Its different, seeing it thru her eyes, but still interesting and did I mention funny? I did? Because it is- the banter between Neely and Lucas (not as much for this story but what was there was great), Chandra and Earp, the witches and especially new witch Betty. It was really funny to hear about the gnome that kept causing havoc and leading an uprising. Very original.
This one deals with yet another pack with an alphahole and the things people do to try to fix their lives for the better to only have it get worse. The ogres were a nice touch and I liked how Chandra has found her bar. Her home. We will see about Fiera?
March 18, 2021
Chandra’s a boss.
Expired was fun for the most part, and it was introduced to see a little into Chandra’s mysterious past. The characters from the other pack were not the most engaging, but they served their purpose. The ogres were entertaining, and the storyline around Sage was not what it seemed.
I loved the fact that Neely and Lucas had even a small presence, but I feel frustrated that this book was released after Shattered when we see how badly Neely is handling the events from her time in the Sanctuary. This really should be read before picking up Shattered.
3.5 stars ⭐️
Expired was fun for the most part, and it was introduced to see a little into Chandra’s mysterious past. The characters from the other pack were not the most engaging, but they served their purpose. The ogres were entertaining, and the storyline around Sage was not what it seemed.
I loved the fact that Neely and Lucas had even a small presence, but I feel frustrated that this book was released after Shattered when we see how badly Neely is handling the events from her time in the Sanctuary. This really should be read before picking up Shattered.
3.5 stars ⭐️
March 27, 2021
I love this series. I really like the small, desert town filled with weres and others that populate it. It fun to see a story from Chandra's pov and some of the less powerful in the town plus some of Chandra's history. I adore Neely and love series with her as the main character but these side stories are good too.
Though the blurb is next to useless to tell you what the story is actually about. Yes, it is about Chandra trying to get her new bar up and running but the real action is Chandra helps her ex find her missing niece. Of course, things are more complicated than just a runaway teenager...
Though the blurb is next to useless to tell you what the story is actually about. Yes, it is about Chandra trying to get her new bar up and running but the real action is Chandra helps her ex find her missing niece. Of course, things are more complicated than just a runaway teenager...
December 29, 2021
Wonderful addition to the series
Having read the main Sundance Series, this novella intertwined seamlessly and continued the great storytelling and characters as the rest of the series. Still surprises me because while I like the paranormal genre, shifters have never been my thing. CP Rider makes shifters, ogres, and witches exist in believable and enjoyable ways. I think I have one more novella (the earlier book with Chandra and Earp) and the most recent release to be caught up. I have to hope that there are more coming because this series has been thoroughly enjoyable.
Having read the main Sundance Series, this novella intertwined seamlessly and continued the great storytelling and characters as the rest of the series. Still surprises me because while I like the paranormal genre, shifters have never been my thing. CP Rider makes shifters, ogres, and witches exist in believable and enjoyable ways. I think I have one more novella (the earlier book with Chandra and Earp) and the most recent release to be caught up. I have to hope that there are more coming because this series has been thoroughly enjoyable.
March 28, 2022
Things were going well between Selena and Judd/Diesel until he suggested she quit her job and be dependent on him. In a huff she left him and wouldn’t take his calls. Meanwhile, Selena looked for her sister and found her in the clutches of a drug dealer and somehow ended up taking her place. Knowing Diesel is probably her only way out, Selena calls.
Little clues (Selena’s hushed, hurried voice and sudden hang-up) have Diesel going to his brothers to see what help they can lend. Out and back in Diesel’s arms, Selena comes up with a plan (that places her firmly in the TSTL column), naturally they all follow it!
Rating: 3.25stars
Little clues (Selena’s hushed, hurried voice and sudden hang-up) have Diesel going to his brothers to see what help they can lend. Out and back in Diesel’s arms, Selena comes up with a plan (that places her firmly in the TSTL column), naturally they all follow it!
Rating: 3.25stars
October 26, 2021
I love Chandra! This was a really nice way to break the series up. I needed out of Neely's head for a little bit and Chandra was a great one to jump into. I appreciated her dry humor. I really appreciated her ability to kill things. I love FMCs that are assassins, current or ex. Earp was also a nice addition to the story. Like his personality, he's quietly showcased. Well, sorta quietly. I like that the story moved forward. I'm not sure what Neely is up to in book 4, but I'm hoping we don't go back in time.
April 16, 2021
(My YouTube Series review can be found here: https://youtu.be/NbGRJFOQuYQ (available from 29/4/21))
I like these inbetween books -they give you some Chandra action, a hyena shifter, second in Alpha Blacke's group, ex-assassin and all around badass. I love her. Add to that she has fleets of vulnerability though she'd die before she showed them, and a protective nature and you gotta love this girl.
Earl... oh my, man-sized gila monster shifter - who likes biting people, he's totally adorable in a strange sort of way.
Always worth a read - this one has Chandra helping out her ex and so we get to know what all happened there - plus Ogres, a new Alpha wolf introduced who's a bit hard arse and did I mention ogres? Very funny.
I like these inbetween books -they give you some Chandra action, a hyena shifter, second in Alpha Blacke's group, ex-assassin and all around badass. I love her. Add to that she has fleets of vulnerability though she'd die before she showed them, and a protective nature and you gotta love this girl.
Earl... oh my, man-sized gila monster shifter - who likes biting people, he's totally adorable in a strange sort of way.
Always worth a read - this one has Chandra helping out her ex and so we get to know what all happened there - plus Ogres, a new Alpha wolf introduced who's a bit hard arse and did I mention ogres? Very funny.
May 12, 2021
Good short
I like these shorts as they add more and more characters. I also like that the story was told from Chandra’s POV. Chandra is busy getting her recently purchased bar open when her ex, Cynthia calls on her to help find her missing niece, Lena. Chandra goes to La Paloma to help. She must deal with yet another bad Alpha, an interesting witch and some vegan Ogres. All in all an interesting story.
I like these shorts as they add more and more characters. I also like that the story was told from Chandra’s POV. Chandra is busy getting her recently purchased bar open when her ex, Cynthia calls on her to help find her missing niece, Lena. Chandra goes to La Paloma to help. She must deal with yet another bad Alpha, an interesting witch and some vegan Ogres. All in all an interesting story.
March 17, 2023
Wasn’t sure I was ready for a spin off but I now need more!
A newly minted bar owner in Sundance, Chandra the alpha hyena number 2 in Blackes group and ex assassin is a little bored. Into her life again walks her ex from the neighboring city. Her niece has disappeared and no one is looking for her. Witches, ogres and shifters galore meet in an epic spinoff to the Sundance Series. Loved it! I need more now.
A newly minted bar owner in Sundance, Chandra the alpha hyena number 2 in Blackes group and ex assassin is a little bored. Into her life again walks her ex from the neighboring city. Her niece has disappeared and no one is looking for her. Witches, ogres and shifters galore meet in an epic spinoff to the Sundance Series. Loved it! I need more now.
April 26, 2023
Very solid novella set in The Sundance world. We get our favorite side characters Chandra, Earl and of course the tipsy witches 😉. We get some good resolution on an old relationship with some fun mystery solving action to boot. And the beginning of something new that leads seamlessly into the next book in series. If you like Ilona Andrews, Patricia Briggs and Annette Marie than I would definitely add C.P. Rider's series to your reading list.
March 20, 2021
Chandra is one of my favorite characters from the Sundance series, so it was great getting more of her. I love the relationships she has with both Neely and Earp, as well as how everyone showed up to back her up. I’m really excited about the potential for her and Fiera as well. The ending was perfectly sweet.
April 22, 2021
Fun, side story
One of the best things about the Sundance Series is the side characters. This is the second book focused on them, and I certainly hope for more. Well edited, with a quick plot and sly humor, this book is quite an enjoyable read. Best to read the others in the series first, to avoid spoilers, but it is not completely necessary to enjoy this story.
One of the best things about the Sundance Series is the side characters. This is the second book focused on them, and I certainly hope for more. Well edited, with a quick plot and sly humor, this book is quite an enjoyable read. Best to read the others in the series first, to avoid spoilers, but it is not completely necessary to enjoy this story.
July 13, 2021
One of my favorites in this series. I enjoyed Chandra in the lead role and would like to see her featured again in her ‘reluctant private detective’ role. This was a good story, and also nice to see some of the other characters we know from the earlier books.
I also liked the new character Ronan and the witch Betty. Would like to read a future novella with them as leads.
I also liked the new character Ronan and the witch Betty. Would like to read a future novella with them as leads.
March 20, 2021
C.P. Rider did it again...
The group at Sundance are family. I loved getting to see a deeper side of Chandra as she helped an ex. This story is full of twists and turns and doesn't disappoint. A must read of the series!
The group at Sundance are family. I loved getting to see a deeper side of Chandra as she helped an ex. This story is full of twists and turns and doesn't disappoint. A must read of the series!
March 28, 2021
Excellent story!
I really enjoyed a more detailed look at Chandra and her new adventures with the bar as a background. She is a neat character and a good friend to have at your back.
I really enjoyed a more detailed look at Chandra and her new adventures with the bar as a background. She is a neat character and a good friend to have at your back.
May 6, 2021
Novella with a punch
This book we get to know Chandra better. She's always portraying a rough exterior but this shows she has a soft spot for those close to her. There are some interesting characters introduced that will be fun if they continue in the series.
This book we get to know Chandra better. She's always portraying a rough exterior but this shows she has a soft spot for those close to her. There are some interesting characters introduced that will be fun if they continue in the series.
June 22, 2021
A different window into a fun world
Fun and engaging mystery - with interesting surprises around expectations betrayal and romance - and a good way to get a different lateral view into this world and have more unpeeling
Fun and engaging mystery - with interesting surprises around expectations betrayal and romance - and a good way to get a different lateral view into this world and have more unpeeling
June 10, 2025
A great adventure!
I love this series, and Chandra is one of my favorite side characters, so I enjoyed reading a novel from her point of view. Strong action and interesting characters. Highly recommend.
I love this series, and Chandra is one of my favorite side characters, so I enjoyed reading a novel from her point of view. Strong action and interesting characters. Highly recommend.
March 20, 2021
Love this series! Looking forward to the next book! 🥰
March 21, 2021
I'm really enjoying this. series. like both plots and characters.
March 21, 2021
Chandra Rocks
Loved reading Chandra's story. She's a rough tough shifter former assassin. She comes face to face with her ex. Now she has to make a decision.
Loved reading Chandra's story. She's a rough tough shifter former assassin. She comes face to face with her ex. Now she has to make a decision.
April 4, 2021
Always fun and great way of connecting the characters
I have loved all of Rider's story. Good pace,keeps you interested. Creates a good character that is funny and strong.
I have loved all of Rider's story. Good pace,keeps you interested. Creates a good character that is funny and strong.
April 15, 2021
Bada$$ Ex assassin
Love these novels, chandra was awesome as always. The hints about what's going on and possible new love interests. Can't wait to read more. JL
Love these novels, chandra was awesome as always. The hints about what's going on and possible new love interests. Can't wait to read more. JL
Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews