Atonement

by Evelyn Montgomery

Declan

Want to hear two truths and a lie?

My name is Declan Ace McClintock.
My profession?
Hitman.
My weakness?
Sex.

But, the truth about a lie is, it’s never really, truly a lie, is it?
Most everyone’s deceit holds a small amount of honesty.
A little bit of yourself that could be true, if you let it.
So, what part of my deception is fabricated?
How far did I go to invent a cover up for my dishonesty?

Are you listening closely?
Because we’re just getting started.

Genres: Dark Romance

126 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 16, 2021

About the author

Born & raised in California, Evelyn Montgomery now resides in Central Kentucky with her husband and three children.

Her love stories include fantasy, paranormal, retellings, contemporary romance, romantic suspense, romantic psychological thrillers and mysteries, rom com, small town romance & more.
One thing to always expect when reading an Evelyn Montgomery book is a plot twist you’d never see coming.

With no plans to stop writing any time soon, her goal is to keep producing a fictional world that isn’t forced, but genuine, heartfelt, and desirable.

Reviews

[Daniela Tavares · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Wow, just wow… 🤯

This is my first book by Evelyn Montgomery and I’m impressed and even more so because this isn’t a full length book.
I always appreciate when a book has only a Hero pov, Declan, and Evelyn delivered. I am sure I wouldn’t enjoyed this as much if it was told from Magnolia’s pov.

Declan and Magnolia both work for the FBI and they are also married.
At the very beginning of the book we know that they hate each other but that they are still married.

We know from the beginning that no matter how hate Mags has towards Declan, he will always love her and he thinks of her as his Queen… I’m telling you, every single time that he thought of her was with so much love and appreciation 😌. She was hard to crack but when she let her defenses down and let Declan in was emotional and beautiful. Also the sexy times people, it was so hot and sexy and everything in between 🥵🔥.

We also immediately see that something monumental happened that made them hate each other. I had my suspicions half way through the book but still, to say that the ending was shocking is an understatement.

When we found out the truths about Declan and what was happening I thought “ where the hell are you taking me , is Declan about to die” but no, everything came together in a full circle and I couldn’t be happier with the result.
Declan and Mags went through hell and back and I must say, so much suffering could’ve have been prevented especially since Declan knew something that Mags didn’t but I totally understood why he didn’t said anything to her.

I just wish there was an epilogue or something to see their family, how they were doing and stuff but for novella this story was amazing and mind blowing and did I mention Declan is hot as hell?

4.5/5 stars

[Bookstagram3172 · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC of this book and this review is my own and honest opinion.

The novella is full of suspense and intrigue. There are so many questions you have in your head which takes you on this journey with Declan and Magnolia.

They have been through unimaginable grief which pulls them apart, but when they are thrown together on a mission, things turn unexpectedly very steamy! But, who can Declan trust??

The way this story is written makes you want to keep reading as it’s so full of mystery and you just need the answers.

It’s unusual to have a whole book from the male POV but this one is just that and I was totally here for it!

[Ashley · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was reading a boring book that was dragging and decided to take a break and read this instead. I’m so glad I did. It was a thrilling fast-paced Mr. & Mrs. Smith vibe that kept you guessing and addicted to the tension. I thought the author did a wonderful job unfolding the secrets in a dramatic but practical way. I loved the length of the story and the ANGST / MAGNETISM between the main characters. Bravo! Can’t wait to read more from this author.

@spinesbinds

[E. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, this is my first book from Evelyn Montgomery. What a great short story. I just love the story and the ending!

[WhiskeyandReading · Rating 3 out of 5]

While that was weird it was still good.

[Gabriella Scavella]

Saucy, hot, sexy, tension are all adjectives to describe this novella. Once again Montgomery crafts a male tragic hero. Declan is repenting and seeking forgiveness from Magnolia who appears to be a world-class ice queen. Can he thaw her and achieve the forgiveness he so desperately needs? She has no intention of offering forgiveness but she can't live without him. They do a seductive dance of wanting to trust and love but instead end up in passion and angst.

This novella is a teaser to what I hope is a bigger story with the Ice Queen as the lead. She may be frosty but is strong, the type of woman with secrets who I'd never want to meet in a dark ally. She is the woman you want fighting by your side. Fortunately for Declan, he knows this very clearly.

I highly recommend especially if you are tight on time.

[Colleen Daley · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was an amazing, twisting, suspenseful read. From the very beginning, the author weaves a mystery that keeps you reading. Declan is a hard, determined man who will find out what happened to his family and atone for his past mistakes with his wife, Magnolia. Magnolia is a strong woman who is unforgiving in her attempts to find her family. Each step is a clue in the mystery and the author finishes with a strong twist that will shock you. The chemistry and tension between Declan and Magnolia can not be hidden despite Magnolia's need to hate her husband. I highly recommend this story for anyone who loves suspense, steam, and a fantastic mystery.

[Erin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic Story!

WOW! I devoured this story in one sitting. It was exciting, thrilling, sexy and had me on the edge of my seat right to the very end. Declan and Magnolia have a hell of a lot to work through and their interactions are rife with pain, anger, passion and love. The emotions between them ooze off the pages, pulled on my heartstrings, and kept me hoping for a happy ending for them both. They are one intense couple that I could not get enough of.

Really well written story that is filled with intrigue, suspense, action, danger and all kinds of intense angst. I loved every second of it.

[Haley · Rating 3 out of 5]

I'm torn on what star to give Atonement. It was very well written, had a badass/sexy hero, a HEA, and a story that I could have liked as an extended upon plot. For some reason though I kept having to force myself to come back and continue reading it. I feel like I jus wished it was something different. Really though at the end I liked it. I definitely want to try some more of this authors books to see how I feel.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Johanna Sawyer · Rating 4 out of 5]

Atonement is a reparation for a wrong as Declan tries to atone for his wife Magnolia. There are a lot of twists and turns before everything is unveiled.

What did I like? The sexual tension between Declan and Magnolia is sadist. Something happened seven years ago to make them separate but sex obviously wasn’t the issue. Declan shows his weakness for her and Magnolia can certainly dish the hate out.

Would I recommend or buy? The book takes a little getting into with the elephant in the room feel. It’s a quick read but tied up pretty nicely. Four stars!

I received a complimentary copy to read and voluntarily left a review.

[Lynn Stifle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Declan is a determined man, determined for vengeance, and to earn his wife’s forgiveness for something that happened seven years ago. Will Declan be able to earn Magnolia’s forgiveness? When they are pulled together on a mission, Declan is unsure on who he can trust. I just loved Declan, he’s loving and so sweet, no matter how much Magnolia liked to push him. If you’re looking for a quick, suspenseful, angsty, sexy read, this one is definitely for you. Highly recommend.

I am voluntarily leaving this review after receiving a free copy from the author.

[Romaine Heart · Rating 4 out of 5]

Seven years ago a horrible tragedy occurred that shattered Declan and
Magnolia's lives. A pain so deep that Mags lost trust in her husband. Both are FBI hitman/hitwoman and married. Even with their lovehate relationship they are now forced to work on the same assignment.
Mags knows her husband is hiding secrets and is determined to find out what they are. The ending will surprise you.
Thank you Booksirens and the author for a digital copy. Read and reviewed voluntarily and the opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.

[Kimberly · Rating 4 out of 5]

The blurb immediately had me intrigued. Declan and Magnolia have been estranged for the past 7 years. They are husband and wife that used to be partners in the FBI. Now they are back together on a case.

Steamy novella with a bit of suspense
Story: 4/5
Enjoyment: 4/5
Sexual Level: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Violence: yes
Cliffhanger: no


Voluntarily Reviewed an Advanced Copy

[Tilya Eloff · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this one, absolutely loved it.

You guys, it's not often that a book keeps me guessing the whole time. Wondering if I even know what has happened, what is going on? And dude I am here for it.

Declan is a man with a secret, a secret that caused him and his wife Magnolia to lose it all. Now he's determined to right his wrong. To have his vengeance and earn his wife's forgiveness. To get his life, his love back. Can he do it or will his weakness be the end of them?

Declan is amazing and I loved his story and love that it was all in his POV as well. This was like no book I have ever read before.

[GKP2460 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Atonement is the dark and emotional journey of Declan and Magnolia. After a huge mistake, Declan is determined for Magnolia to forgive him. Magnolia has no intention of making it easy for Declan. This author has given us an excellent suspenseful read that keeps your attention all the way through to the last page.

[Sarah Whittaker · Rating 4 out of 5]

Bond meets Mr and Mrs Smith

This story has twists, turns with just enough steam.
I loved the chemistry this couple had despite the incident which caused their separation. I was rooting for Dec all the way through; would be be absolved for his sins.

[Peggy Henstra · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book kept me engaged. The characters were intense and while there were some hidden agendas all was revealed and I loved the ending. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Jens_Book_Cubby · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an emotional, intriguing, and quick read, and I absolutely loved it! Declan and Magnolia’s story is simply amazing, I seriously could not put it down! I definitely recommend it and cannot wait for more from this wonderful author!

[Denise · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my goodness, the angst of this book. Atonement is a sexy and thrill of a story and I loved every minute. This is the first book I’ve read by Evelyn Montgomery and certainly not the last. She is a great storyteller and I look forward to more of this dark and mysterious series.

[Bookslover09 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, I love this book!! Declan and Magnolia were amazing between the job, the hate, and their love. This novella is fantastic. Well done, Evelyn I devoured this book.

[Alwaysdarkromance · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is unique. The whole book is told from Declan’s POV. This book turns pretty steamy! I didn’t know if I would like this being told from just the male POV but I really enjoyed this book.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Elvira · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, love the characters they are both bad ass and heartbroken. The couples chemistry is undeniable and steamy. The storyline is fast paced with plenty of drama and danger that yields a fruitful endings.

I received a copy and am voluntarily leaving my honest review.

[M H · Rating 3 out of 5]

While it kept me intrigued because I wanted to know how he messed up badly, I was confused a lot. The wording feels choppy. Maybe because it's a short read but the transitions are harsh and we just jump into scenes left and right with no follow through. I also agree with other reviewers that the ending did not do the story justice at all. It was too rushed so it felt fake and not at all how you would expect people to react after many years. It would have been a great full length book.
I received a free copy of this book and I voluntarily reviewed it.

[Becky · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book starts out with two truths and a lie. You have to read til the end to find out which one is the lie!
This book is all Declan's POV. It is written very mysteriously. Just keep reading. It will twist and turn til it gets there. It packs alot of story and feels in the 110 pages. I loved Declan and Magnolia as a couple. They are two strong, tough spies!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book from Hidden Gems.

[Sammye · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a fast paced romantic suspense full of mystery. The first chapter was so intriguing, I had to read it twice to (kinda) understand what was going on. There’s a lot of action and twists and turns. Declan and Magnolia have some awesome chemistry. Can he get her forgiveness for what happened seven years ago? That is the premise of the plot. I thoroughly enjoyed it. *this honest review is based on a complimentary copy*

[Rachel · Rating 3 out of 5]

It is a second chance romance between a married couple who are hitmen. Due to past traumatic events they are separated but are working together. It is a good read with both characters who are flawed and strong

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Sua · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was obsessed with both of the characters love hate relationship and the action surrounding them. From the beginning I wanted to know so much about what had caused them to split up so the suspense and the twists was well done throughout this story.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Confessions of a Bookaholic · Rating 5 out of 5]

WOW....just wow! I had been anticipating this story ever since I got word of it but had no idea it was going to flow the way that it did. Once I started this novella there was not even an option of putting it down.

Declan lives for the day he gets forgiveness from his wife Magnolia for that horrible night seven years ago. She on the other hand is not ready to forgive. Can he break down her walls and make her see what they have and how good they are together (and oh my are they good together). He has never forgiven himself and cannot until she does. To make matters harder on him, they are now teamed up on the same job and he must trust her but isn't quite sure that he can. There were times I was questioning how trustworthy she is too. Declan does have a secret of his own that he refuses to spill for fear it will only hurt Magnolia in the end and that is not something he ever wants to do again and only hopes he is able to bring her happiness once again.

Evelyn wrote this in such a way that the reader absolutely cannot put this book down until all the burning questions have been answered. There is great mystery in what happened on that night to put Declan and Magnolia in the positions they now find themselves and the only way to find out is to devour the story. When an author is able to keep the suspense going throughout the entire story that is when you know they are talented with their words. Declan is a fiercely loving man and it shows throughout the entire story. No matter how many times Magnolia pushes his buttons he still loves her. He may be dominant over her at certain times but will then turn right around and be so tender. He is a bada** man with a hard exterior but on the inside he is ruled by his love for Magnolia. If you are looking for a quick read that will give you suspenseful moments and then end with an HEA this is definitely for you.

[Lilibet Bombshell · Rating 4 out of 5]

Real Rating: 3.5/5 Stars

Atonement is a fast-paced, smart, sexy novella that follows an estranged married couple (and also freelance intelligent agents) as they are put together for an assignment after not seeing one another since their lives were torn apart several years prior when a mission went wrong.

I love a good novella. I love how authors are forced to pick and choose very carefully what they are going to sacrifice and what they are going to keep in the name of their writing muses in order to create, maintain, and finally put out a short and impactful story. The best novellas and short stories can tell us, in around 100 pages, just as much of (and as powerful of) a story as a full-length novel. Some of my favorite stories of all-time are novellas and short stories.

Atonement is entertaining enough, but I wouldn’t say it completely accomplishes what it set out to achieve. While there is a good amount of tension that suits any suspense novella, and the pace is suitably fast for the length, I think the frequent pauses left for emotional gravity between the estranged married couple that are our main characters lets up on the gas a little too much. If you add in the emotional angst and the light BDSM they engage in, it ends up letting up on the gas just that much more when it comes to the primary plot, leaving too much space for uneven pacing. To me, it ruined the natural ebb and flow a good suspense thriller like this should have. Instead, there were fits and starts that were out of place, and it showed.

Where this novella was at its best was in the fast-paced action scenes, the bitter and angry banter between the main characters, the steamy tension and build-up between them, and when they were working in tandem despite their differences.

While not an amazing short story, Atonement is certainly an entertaining one and worth the read.

[Stacey Foss · Rating 5 out of 5]

This Novella is dark and gritty and full of suspense. Declan is trying to atone for a mistake that happened 7 years ago that destroyed his relationship with his wife Magnolia. He is trying to do everything in his power to earn her Forgiveness but she is not so ready to give it freely. This book pulls on all the Heart strings and makes you feel so many things. When Declan and Magnolia end up teamed together for work things start to take a turn for them. The way Declan tries to get into Magnolia's head is crazy but does it work. You will have to read to find out the true answers. This book has more twists and turns that you can imagine and the End WOW not what I expected. Great ending to a wonderfully written book.