What do you think?
Rate this book
Jackals and Vipers #1
September Doves
Rylee Adder is a struggling college student desperate to reconnect with the only family she has left. She finally has her chance when a late-night phone call sends her rushing to Eden, West Virginia-a small mining town with a veiled past.
She arrives ready to console her grieving sister, but instead discovers a distant, secretive woman she hardly recognizes, and Colton Archer, a tattoo-covered troublemaker with a knack for pushing her buttons.
As Rylee battles her growing attraction to Colton, who is as infuriating as he is handsome, she comes face-to-face with a shocking discovery that has her questioning everything.
When danger closes in, she must decide what rules she is willing to break for the ones she loves or risk losing them all.
She arrives ready to console her grieving sister, but instead discovers a distant, secretive woman she hardly recognizes, and Colton Archer, a tattoo-covered troublemaker with a knack for pushing her buttons.
As Rylee battles her growing attraction to Colton, who is as infuriating as he is handsome, she comes face-to-face with a shocking discovery that has her questioning everything.
When danger closes in, she must decide what rules she is willing to break for the ones she loves or risk losing them all.
390 pages, Paperback
Published April 16, 2023
546 people are currently reading
7103 people want to read
About the author
Emmerson Hoyt
6 books370 followersEmmerson Hoyt lives in Central Texas with her husband and a small horde of animals. When she’s not writing, she’s getting floral tattoos or playing video games.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 837 reviews
February 20, 2026
IM FREEEEEEEE
If you liked this book I’m so sorry please look away 😍😍😍
I can’t believe how much I actually hated this???
This was like a PG 13 motorcycle teenybopper romance and I’m so confused and I don’t give a single fuck about any of it
If you liked this book I’m so sorry please look away 😍😍😍
I can’t believe how much I actually hated this???
This was like a PG 13 motorcycle teenybopper romance and I’m so confused and I don’t give a single fuck about any of it
February 6, 2026
The FMC’s sister’s husband dies unexpectedly, and in order to support her, she travels to Eden, West Virginia—a small mining town. There, she discovers that her husband was a member of a so-called “club,” the Jackals, who steal from the rich and give to the poor—so the story definitely has Robin Hood vibes.
In this town, the FMC also meets a tattooed guy who fights for justice as well, and she falls for him almost instantly.
I really liked the beginning—I felt the chemistry between the main characters. But the further I read, the more the story started to revolve around the Jackals and their fight against “evil.” By the end, it even took on action-movie elements. I have to admit, that’s not really my cup of tea.
The heroine’s sister also irritated me with all her secrecy. She invited Rylee there for support but didn’t even try to spend time with her.
Overall, my favorite part was the relationship between the main characters. I especially felt for the MMC, particularly when it came to his past.
I also want to add that I listened to the audiobook, and I really loved the narrator, Marie Hawkins!
𝐓𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐬:
✓ enemies to lovers
✓ small town romance
✓ Robin Hood reimagined
✓ found family
✓ morally gray characters
✓ tattooed bad boy
✓ secret society/motorcycle club
Thank you to NetGalley and Tantor Media (Tantor Audio) for the ALC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
In this town, the FMC also meets a tattooed guy who fights for justice as well, and she falls for him almost instantly.
I really liked the beginning—I felt the chemistry between the main characters. But the further I read, the more the story started to revolve around the Jackals and their fight against “evil.” By the end, it even took on action-movie elements. I have to admit, that’s not really my cup of tea.
The heroine’s sister also irritated me with all her secrecy. She invited Rylee there for support but didn’t even try to spend time with her.
Overall, my favorite part was the relationship between the main characters. I especially felt for the MMC, particularly when it came to his past.
I also want to add that I listened to the audiobook, and I really loved the narrator, Marie Hawkins!
𝐓𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐬:
✓ enemies to lovers
✓ small town romance
✓ Robin Hood reimagined
✓ found family
✓ morally gray characters
✓ tattooed bad boy
✓ secret society/motorcycle club
Thank you to NetGalley and Tantor Media (Tantor Audio) for the ALC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 11, 2026
Я не буду плакати. Я не буду плакати. Я не буду....😭
Мені дуже сподобалось. Тут якось все так цікаво розписано. Все має сенс.
Райлі не бісить. А Колтон бісить тільки тим що він блондин (але я готова з цим змиритися).
Наступна частина обіцяє бути дуже цікавою.
Мені дуже сподобалось. Тут якось все так цікаво розписано. Все має сенс.
Райлі не бісить. А Колтон бісить тільки тим що він блондин (але я готова з цим змиритися).
Наступна частина обіцяє бути дуже цікавою.
April 26, 2023
Review 4.5 stars!
I’ve always wanted to read a reimagining of Robin Hood and I’m so glad I discovered this one! This is an adult contemporary romance, with some dark themes, a lot of family drama and a sizzling romance! It gave me Twilight vibes but spicier, darker, and without the supernatural element.
Rylee comes to the small town of Eden in hopes to help and support her sister, and soon discovers that everyone in this mysterious town seems to be hiding something from her. There are whispers behind her back, odd gang-like behaviour, almost everyone seems to have lost someone… and to top it off, a tattooed badboy who infuriates her as much as he attracts her. The combination of suspense with a slow burn romance is so addictive!
Perfect for fans of small town romantic suspense ❤️
Thank you to the author for gifting me a copy for review
I’ve always wanted to read a reimagining of Robin Hood and I’m so glad I discovered this one! This is an adult contemporary romance, with some dark themes, a lot of family drama and a sizzling romance! It gave me Twilight vibes but spicier, darker, and without the supernatural element.
Rylee comes to the small town of Eden in hopes to help and support her sister, and soon discovers that everyone in this mysterious town seems to be hiding something from her. There are whispers behind her back, odd gang-like behaviour, almost everyone seems to have lost someone… and to top it off, a tattooed badboy who infuriates her as much as he attracts her. The combination of suspense with a slow burn romance is so addictive!
Perfect for fans of small town romantic suspense ❤️
Thank you to the author for gifting me a copy for review
![Profile Image for Yves V.H. [Slow reading].](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.gr-assets.com%2Fimages%2FS%2Fcompressed.photo.goodreads.com%2Fusers%2F1768806067i%2F170151541._UY200_CR6%2C0%2C200%2C200_.jpg&w=128&q=75)
March 5, 2024
This book might be not my cup of tea. I see everyone liking it but to be honest I was already 80% deep into the book and I am still not sure what it is about. I feel like the middle part is too long with no contribution to the overall story but it is used to develop Rylee and Colton's relationship.
The background characters are great though I find Holly kind of uninteresting and at some point, annoying. She was strange because she asked Rylee to come to her since she needed support and then warned her not to get close to the boys when she herself is close with them and not only thay, she often leaves Rylee alone in a place she calls dangerous. They barely see each other throughout the story so yeah, I was kinda annoyed with her character.
I like the first part of the story, I really thought it had potential until I got into the middle and felt like everything was dragged out to make the story longer than it should.
The ending felt rush though. After all of that build explaining what their group is about and trying to define what they are trying to fight for, the ending was very bland. Logan is an uninteresting villain and I really didn't feel the 'villaness' in the story because there was no rush on anything.
On the better side, I really liked Colton and Rylee. I think their relationship progressed naturally and I really think they are a perfect fit.
💎 Received as an ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own and I am leaving this review voluntarily
The background characters are great though I find Holly kind of uninteresting and at some point, annoying. She was strange because she asked Rylee to come to her since she needed support and then warned her not to get close to the boys when she herself is close with them and not only thay, she often leaves Rylee alone in a place she calls dangerous. They barely see each other throughout the story so yeah, I was kinda annoyed with her character.
I like the first part of the story, I really thought it had potential until I got into the middle and felt like everything was dragged out to make the story longer than it should.
The ending felt rush though. After all of that build explaining what their group is about and trying to define what they are trying to fight for, the ending was very bland. Logan is an uninteresting villain and I really didn't feel the 'villaness' in the story because there was no rush on anything.
On the better side, I really liked Colton and Rylee. I think their relationship progressed naturally and I really think they are a perfect fit.
💎 Received as an ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own and I am leaving this review voluntarily
January 10, 2026
Big thanks to RBmedia and Netgalley for an advanced listening copy of September Doves for review purposes.
I think this narration was done perfectly! 💙
This book made me feel all the things.. I couldn't help but compare this to the Ravenhood series in some way. The plots are vastly different but the "club" vibe is the same with their Robin Hood like values.. I loved Rylee, I thought she was fiesty and strong willed. When she made a false report and lured the cop away I was sold on her charcter. I immediately felt like she fit in with the Jackals. Colton was very reserved and standoffish at first but he really turned into the most loving, caring man. Their summer love was one that will stand out in my mind for weeks to come. I read a lot of romance and I don't think I'll forget this book anytime soon. The ending hurt and pulled on my heartstrings SO BADLY y'all. What was that!? 😭
I think this narration was done perfectly! 💙
This book made me feel all the things.. I couldn't help but compare this to the Ravenhood series in some way. The plots are vastly different but the "club" vibe is the same with their Robin Hood like values.. I loved Rylee, I thought she was fiesty and strong willed. When she made a false report and lured the cop away I was sold on her charcter. I immediately felt like she fit in with the Jackals. Colton was very reserved and standoffish at first but he really turned into the most loving, caring man. Their summer love was one that will stand out in my mind for weeks to come. I read a lot of romance and I don't think I'll forget this book anytime soon. The ending hurt and pulled on my heartstrings SO BADLY y'all. What was that!? 😭
January 5, 2024
4,5 stars
"Never in my life did I think I´d find someone like you. Someone passionate, strong and generous. Someone so beautiful and fierce."
This is a one POV book, told by the POV of Rylee.
I liked Rylee´s character a lot. She is somebody who is always there for others, who put her sister first even though it might have affected herself negatively. Who fights for what she believes in and who is so kind to others at the same time. Colton is definitely her grumpy counterpart who is soft only for her. He is kind of mysterious and closed off in the beginning but later on so loving and so protective of Rylee. Definitely gives "touch her and I´ll kill you" vibes.
I really liked Danny, Colton´s brother, who slowly became like a brother to Rylee as well. I loved their banter in the group and how they all slowly formed a bond. Kind of made it feel like Found Family vibes as well. I liked Holly and her story and I often understood where she came from.
I really enjoyed the plot. The vibes are kind of smalltown with secrets and MC club. I loved the slowburn romance, it was beautifully heartbreaking. I loved how his nickname for her is "Tiger" because she is so fierce. I liked that he picked something strong for her and not some cutesy stuff. I loved the chemistry between both, the tension is definitely there from the beginning. The pacing of the book itself was good, it never felt too slow or too quickly. The only thing I would have wished for is Colton´s POV, because I´m sure it would have been absolutely beautiful but maybe we get to see that in the second book.
Overall it was an amazing read that I truly enjoyed.
trigger warnings: death/murder, loss of loved ones, police brutality/abuse of power
"Never in my life did I think I´d find someone like you. Someone passionate, strong and generous. Someone so beautiful and fierce."
This is a one POV book, told by the POV of Rylee.
I liked Rylee´s character a lot. She is somebody who is always there for others, who put her sister first even though it might have affected herself negatively. Who fights for what she believes in and who is so kind to others at the same time. Colton is definitely her grumpy counterpart who is soft only for her. He is kind of mysterious and closed off in the beginning but later on so loving and so protective of Rylee. Definitely gives "touch her and I´ll kill you" vibes.
I really liked Danny, Colton´s brother, who slowly became like a brother to Rylee as well. I loved their banter in the group and how they all slowly formed a bond. Kind of made it feel like Found Family vibes as well. I liked Holly and her story and I often understood where she came from.
I really enjoyed the plot. The vibes are kind of smalltown with secrets and MC club. I loved the slowburn romance, it was beautifully heartbreaking. I loved how his nickname for her is "Tiger" because she is so fierce. I liked that he picked something strong for her and not some cutesy stuff. I loved the chemistry between both, the tension is definitely there from the beginning. The pacing of the book itself was good, it never felt too slow or too quickly. The only thing I would have wished for is Colton´s POV, because I´m sure it would have been absolutely beautiful but maybe we get to see that in the second book.
Overall it was an amazing read that I truly enjoyed.
trigger warnings: death/murder, loss of loved ones, police brutality/abuse of power
January 21, 2026
I was surprised by this book. Based on the description of arriving in a new town to help her sister after some traumatic event, I thought it would just be a silly romance where the characters have to 'find their way in life' again, but the drama absolutely delivered. For a hot moment, I was even worried it might be going in a culty direction, but no!
The family politics and general relationships in this book gave a really rich context to the events - the mystery, the Jackals, the couples - every action had many implications.
I liked the main protagonists and the broader cast of characters too. I'm also intrigued to find out more about the whole operation because we are being drip fed information as the protagonist discovers new facts - the tension is effective!
The family politics and general relationships in this book gave a really rich context to the events - the mystery, the Jackals, the couples - every action had many implications.
I liked the main protagonists and the broader cast of characters too. I'm also intrigued to find out more about the whole operation because we are being drip fed information as the protagonist discovers new facts - the tension is effective!
November 18, 2025
“Ahem” 🗣️..*taps mic* 🎤 *feedback* “I’d like to sincerely and formally apologize to [redacted] for thinking you were the opps. I did not trust that your intentions were pure and that’s on me..but hey..you were acting a little sus, like what was up with—*clears throat* Anyways. I hope you accept my apology and do not charge it to the game.
Warm regards,
A book girly who has trust issues from suspicious characters after having her heart broken one too many times from fictional characters.
Anyways..
Hey there! Emmerson! 🥰✋🏾 hey!..Emmyyyy..hey!…um 🙂…You’re so insane for that 😃 Because what the actual f— was that last half? 😟 you ate babe. As SOON as I turned that final page I had to just sigh and nod 🙂↕️ “life is worth livingggg 🎶😝” I feel like I can do anything. Conquer worlds, finally start my workout plan, do my taxes, idk I mean..y’all might wanna watch out 🤫.
Seriously, a time was had indeed. The storyline was hitting from page 1, never lost my attention, every character felt real, the setting, plot, ugh! Everything I didn’t know I needed until now. Also that one scene (I don’t even need to specify) with Colton and Rylee? Yeth. Absolutely and hell yes. This was like that one book Flock’s chill older sister who has some crazy ass lore but you fell in love with her, ever since you first laid eyes on her.
Warm regards,
A book girly who has trust issues from suspicious characters after having her heart broken one too many times from fictional characters.
Anyways..
Hey there! Emmerson! 🥰✋🏾 hey!..Emmyyyy..hey!…um 🙂…You’re so insane for that 😃 Because what the actual f— was that last half? 😟 you ate babe. As SOON as I turned that final page I had to just sigh and nod 🙂↕️ “life is worth livingggg 🎶😝” I feel like I can do anything. Conquer worlds, finally start my workout plan, do my taxes, idk I mean..y’all might wanna watch out 🤫.
Seriously, a time was had indeed. The storyline was hitting from page 1, never lost my attention, every character felt real, the setting, plot, ugh! Everything I didn’t know I needed until now. Also that one scene (I don’t even need to specify) with Colton and Rylee? Yeth. Absolutely and hell yes. This was like that one book Flock’s chill older sister who has some crazy ass lore but you fell in love with her, ever since you first laid eyes on her.
Read
January 9, 2025I think this is probably fine - but I don't like college-age romance. It just annoys me because the characters are too young to seem big and bad, lol - especially the male characters.
Read
January 5, 2026That ending 😭😭😭😭😭 My poor little heart. I loved this book! I had the opportunity to complete an immersive read and it made the experience even better.
Despite this audio not being dual narration, Marieh did an outstanding job with her narration bringing to story to life for the listener. Her performance truly enhances the emotional depth and made me fall in love with all the characters.
This book is packed full of twists and turn you don't see coming and all of the characters are so incredibly lovable (aside from a few who deserve to rot) While the book does end in the middle of the story, the cliffhanger isn't terrible and left me eager for more.
Overall, I really enjoyed this read and was thoroughly impressed with the audio.
Despite this audio not being dual narration, Marieh did an outstanding job with her narration bringing to story to life for the listener. Her performance truly enhances the emotional depth and made me fall in love with all the characters.
This book is packed full of twists and turn you don't see coming and all of the characters are so incredibly lovable (aside from a few who deserve to rot) While the book does end in the middle of the story, the cliffhanger isn't terrible and left me eager for more.
Overall, I really enjoyed this read and was thoroughly impressed with the audio.
May 15, 2025
I feel like Bella from Twilight, watching the Cullens at the cool kids' table on her first day of school.
This book is a mix of Sons of Anarchy, Riverdale, Twilight, and Lana Del Rey's songs (specifically Ride and Not All Those Who Wander Are Lost to me personally).
I would not say this book is perfect. There were plenty of moments when I questioned the word choices the author made, and besides, the book was a bit too descriptive in places, focusing on the details of the scene, rather than feelings and emotions.
But all that said, I ate this book up. I have seen the artwork for the duet, and uploaded it into my e-reader right that second, because the guy looked JUST like I wanted a hero to look like. The Robin Hood vibes were indeed present, just like it had been promised, but still the story was original, thoughtful and well-structured, the pacing was marvellous, and I liked it that the book was edited thoroughly enough that I found no plot holes.
The heroine has her own personality, and she was a complex person with her own opinions and ideas. She was independent enough, but not to the point when she would simply make decisions to contradict and do the opposite thing. She had her motivation, and I respected her for that.
The hero!!! He was not exactly what I have been looking for, but it's for the best, actually. Again, he had a personality, not just a set of traits slapped together. AND he drove a 1970 Chevelle with the original green paint. I would have ridden them both so hard.
Certain scenes mostly focused on the development of the relationship between the hero and the heroine, but they followed the logic of the narrative and did not seem artificial. Enough time was dedicated to their emotional connection, although the physical connection was present as well (the 'she fucked me so good I almost said I love her' situation happened... I LOVED it).
Nothing else to say, that was exactly what I have been looking for. I am starting the next instalment right now.
January 16, 2026
Wasn’t quite sure what I was getting into with this but I’m so glad I did! Modern robin hood reimagining with small town/SOA vibes. I was immediately hooked. Colt and Rylee have my entire attention, and I love the found family.
January 30, 2026
4.5 ⭐️ all I knew going into this is that everyone says it gives ravenhood vibes..I was scared to get emotionally attached to anyone iykyk. This was so dang good though, I recommend going into this blind without knowing anything else.
April 15, 2025
**3.75 stars**
This was my first Emmerson Hoyt book and it did not disappoint! Fans of The Ravenhood trilogy by Kate Stewart should definitely pick this up! There is a lot of mystery and being kept in the dark, which you see start to unravel by the end of this book as some questions start getting answered. I am very excited to continue onto book two and find out even more information. By the way that this one ended, I have a feeling the next book is going to be quite the ride!
This was my first Emmerson Hoyt book and it did not disappoint! Fans of The Ravenhood trilogy by Kate Stewart should definitely pick this up! There is a lot of mystery and being kept in the dark, which you see start to unravel by the end of this book as some questions start getting answered. I am very excited to continue onto book two and find out even more information. By the way that this one ended, I have a feeling the next book is going to be quite the ride!
June 2, 2024
I apologize in advance to anyone who loved this book. This is zero reflection on you, but I feel it is my civic duty to let people know my thoughts. This might not be kind. I won't know until I get there. You have been warned. Also VERY spoiler heavy.
February 3, 2026
Holy shittt. How did I sleep on this for so long? If this is book one--which has me absolutely hooked--I can only imagine how much better the story gets in book two. If possible, because from plot to characters to storytelling, this was fantastic.
February 28, 2026
Lite av en Robin Hood-retelling med ”enemies to lovers” som absolut inte var det utan trånade efter varandra från första stund. Den hade potential men i det stora hela var den ganska meh 🤷🏼♀️
Read
September 1, 2024Holding off on rating until I read part 2…
I’m conflicted about this one. I enjoyed it for the most part and feel like I got through it fairly quickly, but I didn’t love it. My biggest issue is this felt soooo much like The Ravenhood series. So many similarities that it was hard not to compare them. I’ll probably try book 2 at some point but it’s also 700 pages and I’m not ready to tackle that right now. It was enjoyable enough while reading, but I don’t think it will be memorable. The writing was good though.
I’m conflicted about this one. I enjoyed it for the most part and feel like I got through it fairly quickly, but I didn’t love it. My biggest issue is this felt soooo much like The Ravenhood series. So many similarities that it was hard not to compare them. I’ll probably try book 2 at some point but it’s also 700 pages and I’m not ready to tackle that right now. It was enjoyable enough while reading, but I don’t think it will be memorable. The writing was good though.
May 3, 2023
.
Ahh-mazing !! I couldn't put this book down. It was well written and the characters were loved except for Knott lol with good reason. I enjoyed the small town & Robin hood vibes to this. Honestly for a debut novel it was consuming and really great, I cannot wait to read more by this author. Colton and Riley had a burning instant attraction, I loved the way it develops and the enemies to lovers energy.
Ahh-mazing !! I couldn't put this book down. It was well written and the characters were loved except for Knott lol with good reason. I enjoyed the small town & Robin hood vibes to this. Honestly for a debut novel it was consuming and really great, I cannot wait to read more by this author. Colton and Riley had a burning instant attraction, I loved the way it develops and the enemies to lovers energy.
February 23, 2024
September Doves, book one of the Jackals and Vipers duet by Emmerson Hoyt-
Rating: 5 ⭐️
Well, hot damn. This is the first book I’ve read by Emmerson Hoyt and it’s the debut novel and what an incredible book as their debut! This is a contemporary retelling that’s loosely based on Robin Hood and I’m telling you, it gave me Ravenhood vibes…only BETTER.
This story is plot heavy and driven, sucking you in immediately. There isn’t a twenty chapter build up to the good stuff, it is good from the word go. It has an impeccable cast of characters, all playing a vital role in the story. There’s 1 % MC club mentality with The Jackals, but they take from the rich to give the poor. There are lies and deceit, mystery, secret society esque dealings and traditions. The found family trope hits so damn hard and I was here for all of it. (Found family is my favorite trope.)
There is also a lot of love in this story. Love in the family, for your brothers and sisters, for your town, for the community…and the love story between Colton and Rylee was spectacular.
The pace was on point, never a point of stagnation in the story. It kept me turning the pages throughout the entire story and I finished it in less than a day. So many twists and turns and that ending!!! Ugh. I mean, it made sense but was upsetting at the same time?
This book is easily the best book I’ve read this year. (It’s only February,) but I’ve placed this book on a pedestal and I don’t see it being replaced very easily. I’m moving on to the second book immediately.
Rating: 5 ⭐️
Well, hot damn. This is the first book I’ve read by Emmerson Hoyt and it’s the debut novel and what an incredible book as their debut! This is a contemporary retelling that’s loosely based on Robin Hood and I’m telling you, it gave me Ravenhood vibes…only BETTER.
This story is plot heavy and driven, sucking you in immediately. There isn’t a twenty chapter build up to the good stuff, it is good from the word go. It has an impeccable cast of characters, all playing a vital role in the story. There’s 1 % MC club mentality with The Jackals, but they take from the rich to give the poor. There are lies and deceit, mystery, secret society esque dealings and traditions. The found family trope hits so damn hard and I was here for all of it. (Found family is my favorite trope.)
There is also a lot of love in this story. Love in the family, for your brothers and sisters, for your town, for the community…and the love story between Colton and Rylee was spectacular.
The pace was on point, never a point of stagnation in the story. It kept me turning the pages throughout the entire story and I finished it in less than a day. So many twists and turns and that ending!!! Ugh. I mean, it made sense but was upsetting at the same time?
This book is easily the best book I’ve read this year. (It’s only February,) but I’ve placed this book on a pedestal and I don’t see it being replaced very easily. I’m moving on to the second book immediately.
January 3, 2026
Wow! I went into this completely blind & it was so good! Small town romantic suspense, a motorcycle club with Robin Hood vibes, very well written, and a fast moving and twisty plot. Colton is the tattooed bad boy that you can’t help but fall for & I loved Rylee as a heroine. This story is told from her single POV and it was a fantastic way to consume this story. I love that Colt calls her Tiger and the meaning behind it—these two have such electric chemistry and the tension was so good! We leave off on a cliffhanger so of course I’m diving into the second book in this duology right away!
Narrator, Marie Hawkins did a fantastic job!
Thank you to Netgalley and the author for this ALC in exchange for my honest review!
Narrator, Marie Hawkins did a fantastic job!
Thank you to Netgalley and the author for this ALC in exchange for my honest review!
October 11, 2024
5⭐️ 1.5🌶️ Rylee + Colton
Oh boy, that was so fun. Admittedly it started off interesting but it wasn’t REALLY loaded with page turning excitement until the 65% mark. But once I got there I just could NOT stop. Colton is the best bad boy that you can’t help falling for, he was giving Jay Hernandez vibes from Crazy Beautiful IYKYK 😮💨
For the first time this also got me interested in starting Sons of Anarchy. I had a feeling this story would be good, I didn’t expect it to be this good 🔥
Oh boy, that was so fun. Admittedly it started off interesting but it wasn’t REALLY loaded with page turning excitement until the 65% mark. But once I got there I just could NOT stop. Colton is the best bad boy that you can’t help falling for, he was giving Jay Hernandez vibes from Crazy Beautiful IYKYK 😮💨
For the first time this also got me interested in starting Sons of Anarchy. I had a feeling this story would be good, I didn’t expect it to be this good 🔥
December 18, 2024
A bit of a snooze fest tbh.
December 20, 2024
I’ve changed it to 5 stars because I can’t stop thinking about it.
Okay, I had NO idea I would love this as much as I did…
An adult contemporary romance with Robin Hood vibes and extremely high stakes? Not my usual, but have I discovered a new treat? Yes, yes I have.
A girl travels to her sister after her sister’s husband dies to help take care of her. She then encounters various individuals in said town who seem to have secrets of their own…
To say I love Colton Archer I feel isn’t enough. The way this man needs to be protected at ALL COSTS. He’s a savage but has a heart of fucking GOLD. I would sell an organ to get a glimpse of this man. I am sat. A tatted up bad boy with a vibe more in tune with a teddy bear.
Rylees growth in this book was precious to witness. The found family was found family-ing. Rylee and her big ol’ heart and her finding her own way in the world to a group of people who are so lovable I cannot EVEN.
This was such a fun and wild ride and totally unexpected. A spicy good time with plot twists. A few things I found to be a tad bit predictable, but I don’t even give the slightest fuck, the vibes were immaculate.
Loved it. Onto book two.
Okay, I had NO idea I would love this as much as I did…
An adult contemporary romance with Robin Hood vibes and extremely high stakes? Not my usual, but have I discovered a new treat? Yes, yes I have.
A girl travels to her sister after her sister’s husband dies to help take care of her. She then encounters various individuals in said town who seem to have secrets of their own…
To say I love Colton Archer I feel isn’t enough. The way this man needs to be protected at ALL COSTS. He’s a savage but has a heart of fucking GOLD. I would sell an organ to get a glimpse of this man. I am sat. A tatted up bad boy with a vibe more in tune with a teddy bear.
Rylees growth in this book was precious to witness. The found family was found family-ing. Rylee and her big ol’ heart and her finding her own way in the world to a group of people who are so lovable I cannot EVEN.
This was such a fun and wild ride and totally unexpected. A spicy good time with plot twists. A few things I found to be a tad bit predictable, but I don’t even give the slightest fuck, the vibes were immaculate.
Loved it. Onto book two.
April 29, 2023
Absolutely freaking loved this one! Def one of my favs of 2023.
The characters were all likable. I was obsessed with Colton’s bad boy demeanor but he has a past I was clinging on to for dear life. The eerie vibes and dark atmosphere gave suspense and thriller… which just pulled me in even more.
Rylee was that girl that we all look for in books, struggling but not giving up and definitely not putting up with crap. Loved her resilience and the bond she had with her sister although it was a bit challenging due to their family history.
The relationship development between Colton and Rylee gave me life. Loveeee them together. The steamy scenes were luring. I loved the details and how it was all played out.
I’m looking forward to the next book after that HUGE cliffhanger and twists!
Huge thanks to the author for sending me a copy. All opinions are my own.
The characters were all likable. I was obsessed with Colton’s bad boy demeanor but he has a past I was clinging on to for dear life. The eerie vibes and dark atmosphere gave suspense and thriller… which just pulled me in even more.
Rylee was that girl that we all look for in books, struggling but not giving up and definitely not putting up with crap. Loved her resilience and the bond she had with her sister although it was a bit challenging due to their family history.
The relationship development between Colton and Rylee gave me life. Loveeee them together. The steamy scenes were luring. I loved the details and how it was all played out.
I’m looking forward to the next book after that HUGE cliffhanger and twists!
Huge thanks to the author for sending me a copy. All opinions are my own.
January 3, 2026
This was supposed to be a slow buddy read.... I read the heck outta this book. It's so good!!
Very Ravenhood vibes which honestly I didn't think anything was like Ravenhood.
Robinhood vibes
10/10 no notes
Go in blind!
Now on to book 2
Very Ravenhood vibes which honestly I didn't think anything was like Ravenhood.
Robinhood vibes
10/10 no notes
Go in blind!
Now on to book 2
January 16, 2026
Another one I don’t even know where to start! This was incredible!
BUT. BEWARE. THIS IS BOOK #1….which I did not realize…. And now I’m patiently (not really) waiting for book #2!
Also, it has NOT YET BEEN RELEASED! Look for it on 1/20/26!
The MFC, Rylee, is a college student. She lives with her boyfriend, Logan, who does not seem to be much of a boyfriend to me… Her sister has been missing, so she hires a PI to try to find her…but he comes up empty. Nothing. ????
She has just about given up when she gets a frantic call from her sister asking her to LEAVE. RIGHT. AWAY!
Seriously, right now!
Grab whatever you absolutely need and come!
I need you! They killed my husband! 😮 Wait. What???
Also, she is super worried and super sensitive. Turn off your phone. Place it in a faraday bag. No contact with anyone. I’m sending a burner phone and instructions to get here!
Seriously? I feel like I’m IN Mission Impossible!
So, she’s driving…when she realizes she’s exhausted. She stops to take a nap. Only to be woken by a fight outside her car! Instead of shrinking down and trying to be invisible, she gets involved!
And then her car dies. 😳
She comes to find the instigator, the tattooed, chiseled guy, is actually an attorney. And, he boosts her car.
And off she goes. She’ll never see him again…
And then she finally arrives at her sisters. But, she is nothing like the woman she remembered…. She’s a shell of herself. And, what exactly is she involved in. There seem to be thugs all around her…
But, the more she learns about the community, the more she likes each and every one of them. They seem to be on a mission to help people, but not in the traditional way… more like a Robin Hood complex kind of way…
But this only endears them all to us more!
And, one of the leaders is none other than tattoo man himself…. Colton. And well, they just have some amazing chemistry!
We continue on this journey and more and more players appear. Some good. Some bad. Some awful. But the more Rylee learns, the more she wants to be a part of whatever this is! Against her sister’s wishes….
I’m going to leave it right here, as this gives the gist of it, without actually giving away the whole plot. But know that there is so much more. Parts that will make you laugh. Parts that will make you break down sobbing. And many parts that will leave you aching and waiting for the next installment…like I am! 😕
Wonderful read! Cannot recommend it enough!
#SeptemberDoves (Jackals and Vipers #1) by @EmmersonHoyt. Narrated wonderfully by @MarieHawkins. Not sure if I’ve listened to any of her narrations before, but I will be keeping my ears open for more from her!!!
5+ phenomenal, jaw-dropping, sweet, scary, beautiful, sorrowful stars for me! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫💫💫💫💫✨✨✨✨✨🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Thanks so much to #NetGalley, #TantorMedia and #TantorAudio for an ALC of the audiobook in exchange for an honest review!!
This one HAS NOT BEEN RELEASED YET!! So, look for it soon, on 1/20/26!!
You can also find my reviews on: Goodreads,
Instagram: @BookReviews_with_emsr and/or
My Facebook Book Club: Book Reviews With Elaine
Thanks so much for reading! And if you ‘liked’ my review, please share with your friends, & click ‘LIKE’ below… And, let me know YOUR thoughts if you read it!! 📚⭐️
BUT. BEWARE. THIS IS BOOK #1….which I did not realize…. And now I’m patiently (not really) waiting for book #2!
Also, it has NOT YET BEEN RELEASED! Look for it on 1/20/26!
The MFC, Rylee, is a college student. She lives with her boyfriend, Logan, who does not seem to be much of a boyfriend to me… Her sister has been missing, so she hires a PI to try to find her…but he comes up empty. Nothing. ????
She has just about given up when she gets a frantic call from her sister asking her to LEAVE. RIGHT. AWAY!
Seriously, right now!
Grab whatever you absolutely need and come!
I need you! They killed my husband! 😮 Wait. What???
Also, she is super worried and super sensitive. Turn off your phone. Place it in a faraday bag. No contact with anyone. I’m sending a burner phone and instructions to get here!
Seriously? I feel like I’m IN Mission Impossible!
So, she’s driving…when she realizes she’s exhausted. She stops to take a nap. Only to be woken by a fight outside her car! Instead of shrinking down and trying to be invisible, she gets involved!
And then her car dies. 😳
She comes to find the instigator, the tattooed, chiseled guy, is actually an attorney. And, he boosts her car.
And off she goes. She’ll never see him again…
And then she finally arrives at her sisters. But, she is nothing like the woman she remembered…. She’s a shell of herself. And, what exactly is she involved in. There seem to be thugs all around her…
But, the more she learns about the community, the more she likes each and every one of them. They seem to be on a mission to help people, but not in the traditional way… more like a Robin Hood complex kind of way…
But this only endears them all to us more!
And, one of the leaders is none other than tattoo man himself…. Colton. And well, they just have some amazing chemistry!
We continue on this journey and more and more players appear. Some good. Some bad. Some awful. But the more Rylee learns, the more she wants to be a part of whatever this is! Against her sister’s wishes….
I’m going to leave it right here, as this gives the gist of it, without actually giving away the whole plot. But know that there is so much more. Parts that will make you laugh. Parts that will make you break down sobbing. And many parts that will leave you aching and waiting for the next installment…like I am! 😕
Wonderful read! Cannot recommend it enough!
#SeptemberDoves (Jackals and Vipers #1) by @EmmersonHoyt. Narrated wonderfully by @MarieHawkins. Not sure if I’ve listened to any of her narrations before, but I will be keeping my ears open for more from her!!!
5+ phenomenal, jaw-dropping, sweet, scary, beautiful, sorrowful stars for me! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫💫💫💫💫✨✨✨✨✨🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Thanks so much to #NetGalley, #TantorMedia and #TantorAudio for an ALC of the audiobook in exchange for an honest review!!
This one HAS NOT BEEN RELEASED YET!! So, look for it soon, on 1/20/26!!
You can also find my reviews on: Goodreads,
Instagram: @BookReviews_with_emsr and/or
My Facebook Book Club: Book Reviews With Elaine
Thanks so much for reading! And if you ‘liked’ my review, please share with your friends, & click ‘LIKE’ below… And, let me know YOUR thoughts if you read it!! 📚⭐️
January 8, 2026
5⭐️ | Let’s talk about why I waited over a year to read this… for no good reason.
WOW. This has been rotting peacefully on my TBR for over a year after a book bestie told me it was a top read for her. I kept putting it off for reasons I truly cannot justify, and now I have mixed feelings about that decision. On one hand, I deprived myself of an incredible story for far too long. On the other? I got to experience it for the first time via audiobook—which drops January 2026—and honestly, that was elite timing.
My only complaint (and yes, this is a me problem) is that I now desperately want book two. I was fully prepared to dive in immediately… until I discovered the audiobook isn’t out until February 2026. So now I wait. Not patiently. Not gracefully. But with commitment.
This story hits on so many elements I love and somehow weaves them together seamlessly. Think modern Robin Hood meets West Side Story vibes—morally gray “gangs” with hearts of gold, questionable methods, and surprisingly strong emotional cores. It shouldn’t work this well, but it absolutely does.
I also loved the deeper exploration of relationships and how differently people can pursue the same goal—protection—while causing wildly different outcomes. And bless the dark romance gods for a feisty, headstrong female lead who pushes back against the system without falling into the usual frustrating romance tropes. She’s sharp, intentional, and refreshingly competent.
Now let’s address the dark romance elephant in the room: the spice. The best part? It’s not cringy. It’s well-balanced, serves both the relationship and the plot, and doesn’t devolve into endless smut-for-smut’s-sake. Even better, the intimate scenes are described in a way that actually works for me—no accidental ick, which is rare in darker romances.
For my dark romance readers: this is an absolute must-read. And if you’re an audiobook lover? Even better. Narrator Marie Hawkins delivers a phenomenal performance. Her pacing is spot-on, her vocal choices are intentional, and she elevates an already fantastic story. I’ll be seeking out more of her work without hesitation.
Would I recommend it? Without question. Just be warned—you may finish it feral, emotionally invested, and counting down the days until book two hits audio.
I was fortunate to receive a complimentary ALC from Tantor Media via NetGalley, which gave me the opportunity to share my voluntary thoughts.
WOW. This has been rotting peacefully on my TBR for over a year after a book bestie told me it was a top read for her. I kept putting it off for reasons I truly cannot justify, and now I have mixed feelings about that decision. On one hand, I deprived myself of an incredible story for far too long. On the other? I got to experience it for the first time via audiobook—which drops January 2026—and honestly, that was elite timing.
My only complaint (and yes, this is a me problem) is that I now desperately want book two. I was fully prepared to dive in immediately… until I discovered the audiobook isn’t out until February 2026. So now I wait. Not patiently. Not gracefully. But with commitment.
This story hits on so many elements I love and somehow weaves them together seamlessly. Think modern Robin Hood meets West Side Story vibes—morally gray “gangs” with hearts of gold, questionable methods, and surprisingly strong emotional cores. It shouldn’t work this well, but it absolutely does.
I also loved the deeper exploration of relationships and how differently people can pursue the same goal—protection—while causing wildly different outcomes. And bless the dark romance gods for a feisty, headstrong female lead who pushes back against the system without falling into the usual frustrating romance tropes. She’s sharp, intentional, and refreshingly competent.
Now let’s address the dark romance elephant in the room: the spice. The best part? It’s not cringy. It’s well-balanced, serves both the relationship and the plot, and doesn’t devolve into endless smut-for-smut’s-sake. Even better, the intimate scenes are described in a way that actually works for me—no accidental ick, which is rare in darker romances.
For my dark romance readers: this is an absolute must-read. And if you’re an audiobook lover? Even better. Narrator Marie Hawkins delivers a phenomenal performance. Her pacing is spot-on, her vocal choices are intentional, and she elevates an already fantastic story. I’ll be seeking out more of her work without hesitation.
Would I recommend it? Without question. Just be warned—you may finish it feral, emotionally invested, and counting down the days until book two hits audio.
I was fortunate to receive a complimentary ALC from Tantor Media via NetGalley, which gave me the opportunity to share my voluntary thoughts.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 837 reviews