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Takeback #5
Dangerous Mind
Once upon a time there was young, naïve girl who fell madly in love with her brother’s Navy SEAL friend. It was one glorious, unforgettable summer. A magical, whirlwind of new and exciting emotions. But this girl knew she wasn’t ready for Cole Keniston not at twenty-three. So, she did the only thing she could do and left him. It's me; I’m the girl who’d found her forever love and still walked away. I’ve waited years—over twenty of them—to find my way back to Cole. I’ve come prepared for battle, and I’m armed with information Cole and his team needs to take down a human trafficking ring. I am no longer the unsure, sheltered girl I once was. I’m wiser, stronger, and ready to take on any obstacle that stands in my way of claiming my future. The former SEAL is about to be outplayed by the very ethos he’s lived his life by: I will never quit. I persevere and thrive on adversity . If knocked down, I will get back up, every time . I will not fail.
214 pages, Paperback
First published December 27, 2022
495 people are currently reading
453 people want to read
About the author
Riley Edwards
109 books2,697 followersRiley Edwards is a Wall Street Journal and USA Today Bestselling author, wife, and military mom. Riley was born and raised in Los Angeles but now resides on the east coast with her fantastic husband and children.
Riley writes heart-stopping romance with sexy alpha heroes and even stronger heroines. Riley's favorite genres to write are romantic suspense and military romance.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 208 reviews
December 28, 2022
This definitely was an exciting read; however, it was a bit different. We've met Cole in the previous Takeback books, and he's that quiet, intellectual charmer who reads the romances that Letty sells. He's really cool. Suddenly his world shifts when THE GIRL is dropped back into his life after she left him 20-plus years ago.
Where the difference comes is that instead of there being a "bad guy" who endangers the heroine and adds suspense to the story. This book is all about healing and answering the question, can you go back? Understandably, Cole has a lot of anger, and Riley keeps us there as he works through the anger. Mia has developed a mind of her own and isn't afraid to speak it. However, it is tinged with hurt, regrets, and her enduring love for Cole.
Riley walks us through Cole and Mia, finding the love that has not diminished in 20-plus years apart. Through learning that partners need to let each other be their best selves. Forgiveness is better than pride. It was all so good I hated to see it end. But then again, I say that at the end of every Riley Edwards book. Kudos to Riley for the wink, nodding to fellow romance authors and mentioning that Mia even managed to snag an ARC of Susan Stoker's (lucky girl). Letty is still filterless and drags Brooklyn and Sweet Sadie into all her shenanigans, much to my everlasting joy. Their girl posse is the best. All in all, you cannot go wrong with this delightful read.
Where the difference comes is that instead of there being a "bad guy" who endangers the heroine and adds suspense to the story. This book is all about healing and answering the question, can you go back? Understandably, Cole has a lot of anger, and Riley keeps us there as he works through the anger. Mia has developed a mind of her own and isn't afraid to speak it. However, it is tinged with hurt, regrets, and her enduring love for Cole.
Riley walks us through Cole and Mia, finding the love that has not diminished in 20-plus years apart. Through learning that partners need to let each other be their best selves. Forgiveness is better than pride. It was all so good I hated to see it end. But then again, I say that at the end of every Riley Edwards book. Kudos to Riley for the wink, nodding to fellow romance authors and mentioning that Mia even managed to snag an ARC of Susan Stoker's (lucky girl). Letty is still filterless and drags Brooklyn and Sweet Sadie into all her shenanigans, much to my everlasting joy. Their girl posse is the best. All in all, you cannot go wrong with this delightful read.
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October 28, 2023She had to let him go because she loved him. She had to let him go in order to find out who she really was. She had to let him go in order to become someone he deserved. Someone he could be proud of. It was a risk but a necessary one. Twenty years later she's back if for no other reason than to explain her actions. She still loves him but doesn't expect an open armed reception but she she was surprised at the level of his hostility. Dangerous Mind is the fifth book in the Takeback series. It's a bit different from the first books with action and danger on the periphery. This is a marvelous second chance romance about two people who fell inlove and never fell out of love despite time, distance and circumstances separating them. Cole Keniston and Mia Young are stellar characters whose heartbreak has shaped their lives during their years of separation. You will root for them from page one.
December 25, 2022
I’ve been fairly consistent for the last couple of books in that Reese is my main favourite spicy takeback hero…but here comes Cole to make my eyes go a wondering!
An emotional wringer of a book, this story drags you through the relationship wreckage that is Cole and Mia’s history and will leave you decimated in all the best ways.
Skilfully delivering a book with danger, intrigue, mystery and suspense the main crux of this book is all about the Mia and Cole show.
Love lost and found turns out to be love never forgotten and hard fought for. I found myself seeing each side of the story so clearly and whilst mistakes were made (big ones, on both sides) I just couldn’t pick a side and at times just couldn’t see how they were possibly going to make it through to a hea (*not quite a spoiler alert*, this is a Riley Edwards romance after all…they get the hea!)
Well developed and complex characters (the authors forte!) this book takes us through one heck of a romantic ride, whilst giving us a subtle yet important dramatic storyline and also carefully nudges along the underlying storyline woven into the series. We find ourselves meeting a whole new team (they have names…this means we must now petition the author to write their stories). Heck one of them is called Saint and I’m so all over this already I’m totally claiming him as mine when the book gets written (hint hint 🙏) . The mysterious Shep comes back, we get Zane name dropped in passing and it’s just all going on everywhere in this book.
Also within these pages (and some of my most favourite parts of this book hands down) were the interactions with the wider cast of series characters. Lettie❤️River are #relationshipgoals (the not so secret secrets make me giggle every time!) and what exactly does a girl have to do to join the Smutties book club because I need hooking up!!
I have ended this book with a desire to read it again straight away, a desperate need to have the next in the series available read NOW, and a long list of authors and book titles that were name dropped like confetti…what an actual tease. I know the author has read a particular book she mentions that isn’t yet released and she doesn’t give ANY spoilers or hints at all!!! Rude 🤨 🤣
If I have a negative about this book, it feels short. Not that it wasn’t jam packed, it was, or that things felt rushed, they didn’t necessarily, or storylines were not complete, they were where they needed to. But at approx 175 pages it’s markedly shorter than any other book in the series and being such a fan of the author, I want to lose myself in her books for longer. But I think that’s perhaps a selfish negative so my recommendation is still 5* and I highly recommend it to any and all.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
An emotional wringer of a book, this story drags you through the relationship wreckage that is Cole and Mia’s history and will leave you decimated in all the best ways.
Skilfully delivering a book with danger, intrigue, mystery and suspense the main crux of this book is all about the Mia and Cole show.
Love lost and found turns out to be love never forgotten and hard fought for. I found myself seeing each side of the story so clearly and whilst mistakes were made (big ones, on both sides) I just couldn’t pick a side and at times just couldn’t see how they were possibly going to make it through to a hea (*not quite a spoiler alert*, this is a Riley Edwards romance after all…they get the hea!)
Well developed and complex characters (the authors forte!) this book takes us through one heck of a romantic ride, whilst giving us a subtle yet important dramatic storyline and also carefully nudges along the underlying storyline woven into the series. We find ourselves meeting a whole new team (they have names…this means we must now petition the author to write their stories). Heck one of them is called Saint and I’m so all over this already I’m totally claiming him as mine when the book gets written (hint hint 🙏) . The mysterious Shep comes back, we get Zane name dropped in passing and it’s just all going on everywhere in this book.
Also within these pages (and some of my most favourite parts of this book hands down) were the interactions with the wider cast of series characters. Lettie❤️River are #relationshipgoals (the not so secret secrets make me giggle every time!) and what exactly does a girl have to do to join the Smutties book club because I need hooking up!!
I have ended this book with a desire to read it again straight away, a desperate need to have the next in the series available read NOW, and a long list of authors and book titles that were name dropped like confetti…what an actual tease. I know the author has read a particular book she mentions that isn’t yet released and she doesn’t give ANY spoilers or hints at all!!! Rude 🤨 🤣
If I have a negative about this book, it feels short. Not that it wasn’t jam packed, it was, or that things felt rushed, they didn’t necessarily, or storylines were not complete, they were where they needed to. But at approx 175 pages it’s markedly shorter than any other book in the series and being such a fan of the author, I want to lose myself in her books for longer. But I think that’s perhaps a selfish negative so my recommendation is still 5* and I highly recommend it to any and all.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 28, 2022
'Thank you for coming home'
Mia and Cole come together for the first time in twenty three years and it is like a hurricane crashing into a tornado. It tears them both apart, then shreds them even further before they are dragged into the eye of the storm. Can they find a way to put the emotional wreckage behind them, forgive and move forward? Or are the wounds too deep and too raw.
Mia left to find herself, to prove to herself that she was strong enough to follow her dreams, but doing so may just cost her her ultimate dream, she has waited so long, never believing she was good enough, worthy enough. Now she must face the repercussions of the choices she made.
A fantastic read, I love the TAKEBACK Team and everything they fight for.
Mia and Cole come together for the first time in twenty three years and it is like a hurricane crashing into a tornado. It tears them both apart, then shreds them even further before they are dragged into the eye of the storm. Can they find a way to put the emotional wreckage behind them, forgive and move forward? Or are the wounds too deep and too raw.
Mia left to find herself, to prove to herself that she was strong enough to follow her dreams, but doing so may just cost her her ultimate dream, she has waited so long, never believing she was good enough, worthy enough. Now she must face the repercussions of the choices she made.
A fantastic read, I love the TAKEBACK Team and everything they fight for.
December 26, 2022
Dangerous Minds⛔️
Dangerous Minds is the next book in the Takeback series and features Cole and the woman who shattered his heart💔 When he receives a call late one night from an old friend to pick up his sister, Mia…Coles reluctantly agrees. It’s been more than two decades since they saw each other and the wound of her leaving has never properly healed…for either of them. When Coles discovers what she’s been up to…oh dear💥
I read this one far tooooooo quickly but enjoyed it nonetheless. Can’t wait to read about Davis and his quest to find the one woman that can help them take down the MC Prez, Zeus😳
Dangerous Minds is the next book in the Takeback series and features Cole and the woman who shattered his heart💔 When he receives a call late one night from an old friend to pick up his sister, Mia…Coles reluctantly agrees. It’s been more than two decades since they saw each other and the wound of her leaving has never properly healed…for either of them. When Coles discovers what she’s been up to…oh dear💥
I read this one far tooooooo quickly but enjoyed it nonetheless. Can’t wait to read about Davis and his quest to find the one woman that can help them take down the MC Prez, Zeus😳
December 28, 2022
Cole and Mia
I finished this in one sitting, couldn't put it down. It was fast paced, and I enjoyed this second chance romance.
I finished this in one sitting, couldn't put it down. It was fast paced, and I enjoyed this second chance romance.
April 12, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️ (3 stars)
Good – Solid
Dangerous Mind (Takeback #5) follows Cole Lannigan and Mia Schaeffer, former lovers reunited after 20 years apart. It’s a second chance romance with good intentions, but the reason for their original breakup – and two-decade separation – felt too thin to carry the emotional weight it was aiming for.
There’s less action here than in earlier books – the story is more about rebuilding trust and connection. But while the setup worked on paper, the chemistry didn’t fully land for me. The relationship was fine, but not especially compelling.
What I did appreciate was that this is an older romance – and one that doesn’t rely on the usual divorced-or-single-mom setup. Mia’s in her 40s and simply single, which is surprisingly rare in the genre. There’s no ex-husband, no bitter past to work through – just a woman with her own life, getting a second chance. I love seeing romance between characters in their 30s or 40s – there really aren’t enough of them, especially considering how many romance readers fall into that age bracket.
Still, it was an easy enough read to pass the time. Nothing standout, but nothing frustrating either.
⸻
My Rating Scale for Reviews
⭐ 1 – Not for Me: Struggled to finish or didn’t finish. The writing, characters, pacing, or narration (if audiobook) really didn’t work for me.
⭐ 2 – Disappointing: Had some good elements (world-building, action, romance, etc.), but too many issues kept me from fully enjoying it. Either the character choices, writing, or narration pulled me out of the story too much.
⭐ 3 – Good – Solid: A normal, enjoyable read. Glad I read it, and it was solid overall, but nothing particularly standout. Might have had some things I didn’t love, but I still had a good time with it.
⭐ 3.5 – Better Than Good: A strong read with clear standout moments – whether in character dynamics, world-building, or writing. Maybe not a full favorite, but it left a positive impression and I’d recommend it to the right reader.
⭐ 4 – Amazing: A strong read with very little wrong, but just didn’t quite hit that rare, reread-worthy 5. Still an excellent book I’d easily recommend.
⭐ 5 – Flawless – Unforgettable: One of my absolute favorites. A book I’d reread and still love just as much. Perfect blend of storytelling, characters, romance, and action. Sticks with me long after I finish. I don’t give this rating often!
Good – Solid
Dangerous Mind (Takeback #5) follows Cole Lannigan and Mia Schaeffer, former lovers reunited after 20 years apart. It’s a second chance romance with good intentions, but the reason for their original breakup – and two-decade separation – felt too thin to carry the emotional weight it was aiming for.
There’s less action here than in earlier books – the story is more about rebuilding trust and connection. But while the setup worked on paper, the chemistry didn’t fully land for me. The relationship was fine, but not especially compelling.
What I did appreciate was that this is an older romance – and one that doesn’t rely on the usual divorced-or-single-mom setup. Mia’s in her 40s and simply single, which is surprisingly rare in the genre. There’s no ex-husband, no bitter past to work through – just a woman with her own life, getting a second chance. I love seeing romance between characters in their 30s or 40s – there really aren’t enough of them, especially considering how many romance readers fall into that age bracket.
Still, it was an easy enough read to pass the time. Nothing standout, but nothing frustrating either.
⸻
My Rating Scale for Reviews
⭐ 1 – Not for Me: Struggled to finish or didn’t finish. The writing, characters, pacing, or narration (if audiobook) really didn’t work for me.
⭐ 2 – Disappointing: Had some good elements (world-building, action, romance, etc.), but too many issues kept me from fully enjoying it. Either the character choices, writing, or narration pulled me out of the story too much.
⭐ 3 – Good – Solid: A normal, enjoyable read. Glad I read it, and it was solid overall, but nothing particularly standout. Might have had some things I didn’t love, but I still had a good time with it.
⭐ 3.5 – Better Than Good: A strong read with clear standout moments – whether in character dynamics, world-building, or writing. Maybe not a full favorite, but it left a positive impression and I’d recommend it to the right reader.
⭐ 4 – Amazing: A strong read with very little wrong, but just didn’t quite hit that rare, reread-worthy 5. Still an excellent book I’d easily recommend.
⭐ 5 – Flawless – Unforgettable: One of my absolute favorites. A book I’d reread and still love just as much. Perfect blend of storytelling, characters, romance, and action. Sticks with me long after I finish. I don’t give this rating often!
July 14, 2024
4.4 stars
Since I discovered this author last year, I have devoured her books. She does an exceptionally job of mixing suspense with romance. She is the closest I have found to another favorite author. At times it is almost uncanny at how alike they are.
The downside to reading almost all this author's backlog, is that instead of binging a series, I have to wait until the new book comes out. The struggle is real.
While this was not my favorite of this series, I still enjoyed being back in this world. Cole was a great leading man. I struggled a bit with Mia, especially because it seemed pretty outlandish to take two decades before she attempted this reconciliation. I get her reasons but twenty years+ was crazy. A little communication goes a long way.
Still, this is a great book.
Since I discovered this author last year, I have devoured her books. She does an exceptionally job of mixing suspense with romance. She is the closest I have found to another favorite author. At times it is almost uncanny at how alike they are.
The downside to reading almost all this author's backlog, is that instead of binging a series, I have to wait until the new book comes out. The struggle is real.
While this was not my favorite of this series, I still enjoyed being back in this world. Cole was a great leading man. I struggled a bit with Mia, especially because it seemed pretty outlandish to take two decades before she attempted this reconciliation. I get her reasons but twenty years+ was crazy. A little communication goes a long way.
Still, this is a great book.
December 30, 2022
Mia Young at twenty-three had found her forever love in Cole Keniston, her brother Pete’s, Navy SEAL buddy. He’d warned her not to fall in love with him, the thought had never crossed his mind that he’d be the one needing to protect his heart. She’d walked away—waiting until the morning he was leaving with his team to tell him she wouldn’t be in San Diego when he returned. He’d grabbed his bag and left her, without a word. He hadn’t asked why or where she was going. He didn’t argue, ask her to stay, or say goodbye.
She’d left to discover herself. Decisions that altered the course of her life, life-altering decisions, and the more years that passed she’d grown to understand that the love she had for him was significant. It was the kind of love that never died. The kind of love that you tucked away for safekeeping. And that was what she’d done, kept him with her, locked the memory of him in her heart, and hoped one day he’d understand.
Twenty years later she's back, armed with intel to take down a human trafficking ring…unprepared for the level of his hostility.
From the day she left San Diego her brother and Mason had been keeping her aware of his movements. It’s been months since he was involved with anyone, for Mia, it’s been years.
Over the years Mia had made some questionable choices. Now standing in front of him, recognising the hate in his eyes she knew the second worst decision she’d ever made was keeping the hope alive that there would one day be a future for them.
Her bright idea to come to Idaho to lay low while at the same time seeing if there was any chance of reconnecting had totally imploded in her face.
Mia’s part of a multinational group along with Pete, Mason, Gavin, Ryan, Aiden, and Fallon rescuing women and children of domestic abuse, her cover as volcanologist allows her to enter and exit countries, moving freely. They venture into dangerous locations, helping those less fortunate of helping themselves and their property management funds their rescue missions.
Minor editing errors.
She’d left to discover herself. Decisions that altered the course of her life, life-altering decisions, and the more years that passed she’d grown to understand that the love she had for him was significant. It was the kind of love that never died. The kind of love that you tucked away for safekeeping. And that was what she’d done, kept him with her, locked the memory of him in her heart, and hoped one day he’d understand.
Twenty years later she's back, armed with intel to take down a human trafficking ring…unprepared for the level of his hostility.
From the day she left San Diego her brother and Mason had been keeping her aware of his movements. It’s been months since he was involved with anyone, for Mia, it’s been years.
Over the years Mia had made some questionable choices. Now standing in front of him, recognising the hate in his eyes she knew the second worst decision she’d ever made was keeping the hope alive that there would one day be a future for them.
Her bright idea to come to Idaho to lay low while at the same time seeing if there was any chance of reconnecting had totally imploded in her face.
Mia’s part of a multinational group along with Pete, Mason, Gavin, Ryan, Aiden, and Fallon rescuing women and children of domestic abuse, her cover as volcanologist allows her to enter and exit countries, moving freely. They venture into dangerous locations, helping those less fortunate of helping themselves and their property management funds their rescue missions.
Minor editing errors.
January 9, 2023
This is book 5 in the Takeback series and can absolutely be read as a standalone, although I do highly recommend the previous books as well. In this one we get Cole and Mia's story. Mia and Cole were an item a long time ago, when she up and leaves him. She knew she wasn't ready for him, so she left. She has waited 20 years in order to work her way back to him and know she was strong enough to be with him. She only has to hope he can forgive her. Cole never truly knew what happened all those years ago, but he knows he is still angry over it. But when Mia comes back into his life, can he move beyond the anger and see who she is and understand her reasons? All while keeping her safe?
Ok, so most of this book I loved. I loved how Cole and Mia work things out. I love how their current relationship plays out. I love how Mia has this burning need to help the people who can't help themselves, and she isn't afraid to put herself into danger to do it. I love her relationship with her team and family. I had issues with Cole though at times. I wanted to really smack him. He has so much anger over what happened, but he never asked questions when about her reasons. He never stopped to think about the why of anything. He just blames her for everything and never stops to see that there may be a really good reason. Not until he is finally forced to confront not only his anger but to see things from her point of view, and then he has a 180 and I loved him again. And while this one wasn't my favorite of this series, it is still a great read. And it introduced some more characters that I think I absolutely need stories for!!!
Ok, so most of this book I loved. I loved how Cole and Mia work things out. I love how their current relationship plays out. I love how Mia has this burning need to help the people who can't help themselves, and she isn't afraid to put herself into danger to do it. I love her relationship with her team and family. I had issues with Cole though at times. I wanted to really smack him. He has so much anger over what happened, but he never asked questions when about her reasons. He never stopped to think about the why of anything. He just blames her for everything and never stops to see that there may be a really good reason. Not until he is finally forced to confront not only his anger but to see things from her point of view, and then he has a 180 and I loved him again. And while this one wasn't my favorite of this series, it is still a great read. And it introduced some more characters that I think I absolutely need stories for!!!
December 27, 2022
As ever, everything Riley Edwards touches is pure gold. Dangerous Mind was a little bit different than her usual, with less suspense and more angst, but still chock full of the wit and humor we have come to expect. Each of her series has a character who plays up the comic relief, in Takeback, it is Letty and Dangerous Mind does not disappoint. Letty has a tendency to welcome the newcomers with open arms and bring them into the fold (whether they want to or not).
Dangerous Mind is a second-chance romance. We finally meet Cole’s true love, the one that got away. Mia is everything that you would expect for our hero, bold, brave, and a badass in her own right. We come to learn that she wasn’t always that way and it’s a big part of what drove them apart twenty years ago. Can you even imagine knowing “The One” is out there and you’ve already met them but having to wait 20 years for your HEA? Cole and Mia are stronger than most of us. And lucky for them, Lady Luck and Cupid aren’t done with them just yet.
Dangerous Minds was not as heavy on the suspense and intrigue as some of the others in the series. But it also does a great job as the turning point for the overarching mystery of this series, the local MC. And it also (hopefully, fingers crossed) sets us up to another team of players for either a spin-off or that will get adopted into Takeback. Because we need more Saint and Mason pretty please!! Overall an excellent next installment of a series we have come to know and love.
Dangerous Mind is a second-chance romance. We finally meet Cole’s true love, the one that got away. Mia is everything that you would expect for our hero, bold, brave, and a badass in her own right. We come to learn that she wasn’t always that way and it’s a big part of what drove them apart twenty years ago. Can you even imagine knowing “The One” is out there and you’ve already met them but having to wait 20 years for your HEA? Cole and Mia are stronger than most of us. And lucky for them, Lady Luck and Cupid aren’t done with them just yet.
Dangerous Minds was not as heavy on the suspense and intrigue as some of the others in the series. But it also does a great job as the turning point for the overarching mystery of this series, the local MC. And it also (hopefully, fingers crossed) sets us up to another team of players for either a spin-off or that will get adopted into Takeback. Because we need more Saint and Mason pretty please!! Overall an excellent next installment of a series we have come to know and love.
December 28, 2022
If you have been reading this series and if you haven't then get onto it quick you would know that at the end of Dangerous Encounter then you know that Cole received a phone call from his friend asking him to take care of his sister. What we didn't know at that stage was the fraught emotions between these two.
Cole Keniston ex Navy Seal has no problems working with Takeback after all he has no one ion his life expect his team mates both hi current ones at Takeback and his fellow Seals he served with one of those is Saint (Pete) Young and when they where team mates he fell passionately in love with Pete's sister Mia that is until she walked away and broke his heart something he has never recovered from. Now Mia is in danger and Pete has asked Cole to look after her What he didn't know is that Pete and his fellow former team mates aren't the land developers he thought Now Pete is missing and his team will go after him and it may take Coles team to keep Mia safe because she is far from the young innocent who left him. Can she make him understand why she had to go and can he forgive her You will have to read to see
Cole Keniston ex Navy Seal has no problems working with Takeback after all he has no one ion his life expect his team mates both hi current ones at Takeback and his fellow Seals he served with one of those is Saint (Pete) Young and when they where team mates he fell passionately in love with Pete's sister Mia that is until she walked away and broke his heart something he has never recovered from. Now Mia is in danger and Pete has asked Cole to look after her What he didn't know is that Pete and his fellow former team mates aren't the land developers he thought Now Pete is missing and his team will go after him and it may take Coles team to keep Mia safe because she is far from the young innocent who left him. Can she make him understand why she had to go and can he forgive her You will have to read to see
December 28, 2022
I have loved every single book Riley Edwards has written and given most of them 5 stars. The Takeback series is about a group of men who have become a unit of brothers who work to take down sex traffickers and save victims. All of the men are alpha in the best possible way and I love their relationship and their banter and teasing. I also love the relationships of the women the first 4 men have fallen for. That being said, this wasn’t my favorite story. I didn’t really feel invested in Cole and Mia together as much as I usually do and her reasoning behind why she left and stayed away so long didn’t feel realistic. This is strictly my opinion. I read a lot and some books catch my heart more than others. Even though this isn’t my favorite, I love this series so much and will absolutely recommend it and Riley to anyone who asks.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 27, 2022
Takeback #5 may be lighter on the action than previous books in the series but it is definitely oh so heavily invested in emotion. Cole and MIA’s love story is 20 years in the making. College grad Mia & Navy Seal Cole fell hard for each other when they were both in their early 20’s without ever realising how deeply they felt and Mia ripped both their hearts out when she left knowing she wasn’t ready. 20 years later they have their second chance but there is a minefield of emotions to navigate before they can hope to find their happily ever after. I liked Mia, I really did and truly admire her strength to do what was right for her despite breaking her own heart.
Love the author & romance story talk in this story, never fails to make me smile, the girl posse were in the thick of it, even Letty is growing in me. It’s a wonderful series, this one felt a bit shorter but was the best Christmas Eve present - thoroughly recommend!
I received an arc from the author and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review.
Love the author & romance story talk in this story, never fails to make me smile, the girl posse were in the thick of it, even Letty is growing in me. It’s a wonderful series, this one felt a bit shorter but was the best Christmas Eve present - thoroughly recommend!
I received an arc from the author and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review.
January 12, 2023
Had to Turn Around and Binge the Whole Series!
I love Riley Edwards’s talent with my whole heart. I mean it. I’ve never read an Edwards book I didn’t like. When I got my hands on Book 5 of the Takeback series, “Dangerous Mind,” I had no idea I had missed an entire Edwards lineup. It hooked me from jump with the steamy, page-sizzling chemistry between Cole and Mia, the danger and intrigue, the sense of family among the band of brothers - all of it! Just so friggin’ amazing that I immediately bought and binged the first four and fell even more in love. The way Edwards so effortless created a family bond among the characters and continually brought them back into each new tale in a meaningful way just did it all for me. Add in Cole’s growly, panty-combusting hotness, and we have another Edwards win. Stars, stars, and more stars!
I love Riley Edwards’s talent with my whole heart. I mean it. I’ve never read an Edwards book I didn’t like. When I got my hands on Book 5 of the Takeback series, “Dangerous Mind,” I had no idea I had missed an entire Edwards lineup. It hooked me from jump with the steamy, page-sizzling chemistry between Cole and Mia, the danger and intrigue, the sense of family among the band of brothers - all of it! Just so friggin’ amazing that I immediately bought and binged the first four and fell even more in love. The way Edwards so effortless created a family bond among the characters and continually brought them back into each new tale in a meaningful way just did it all for me. Add in Cole’s growly, panty-combusting hotness, and we have another Edwards win. Stars, stars, and more stars!
December 27, 2022
One of the many things I love about Riley Edwards is that her books, while similar in nature, can exist in a different location and with different characters with different goals but still have all the emotion and romance that is her trademark. It takes some serious skill as a writer to make that happen.
This is the 5th book in the Takeback Series and it hit all the right notes with strong, sexy male and female leads and a lot of emotion and good work. I love a good story about the good guys saving the world and in this case Mia is right there with him. The "girl gang " is going strong and the book store "Smutties", is a great as ever! This is a second chance romance that will warm your heart (and your loins) and will make you fall in love with these characters all over again.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is the 5th book in the Takeback Series and it hit all the right notes with strong, sexy male and female leads and a lot of emotion and good work. I love a good story about the good guys saving the world and in this case Mia is right there with him. The "girl gang " is going strong and the book store "Smutties", is a great as ever! This is a second chance romance that will warm your heart (and your loins) and will make you fall in love with these characters all over again.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 27, 2022
Actual Rating 3.75
First off I love Riley's books and Takeback is one of my favourite series by her. This is book five and while I enjoyed it, it's not my favourite. I really like Cole and I was excited for his story with Mia. While I liked what we got, I wanted more of it.
I felt like the story went by too fast and because of that it didn't quite reach that emotional beat that I usually feel while reading one of Riley's books.
I'm still happy to have read it, and I'm looking forward to reading the next book in the series as well as any other book Riley puts out. To be honest, since I discovered her early this year, I have read each of her new books on release day, and I don't see that changing any time soon!
First off I love Riley's books and Takeback is one of my favourite series by her. This is book five and while I enjoyed it, it's not my favourite. I really like Cole and I was excited for his story with Mia. While I liked what we got, I wanted more of it.
I felt like the story went by too fast and because of that it didn't quite reach that emotional beat that I usually feel while reading one of Riley's books.
I'm still happy to have read it, and I'm looking forward to reading the next book in the series as well as any other book Riley puts out. To be honest, since I discovered her early this year, I have read each of her new books on release day, and I don't see that changing any time soon!
December 27, 2022
This latest story of the series, belongs to former Navy SEAL Cole Keniston and Mia Young. Cole was Mia’s brother’s friend and her first love. But she was young, and inexperience and no match for Cole. So she left him behind but never forgot him.
Fast forward twenty years and she’s ready for him. But Cole was hurt in the past and not willing to open his heart again to the one that destroyed it.
Will they get a second chance at love or will they end up going their separate ways?
I have to confess that not having read the previous stories, I missed the connection with the characters from those stories. Also, it took me a while to warm up to Mia.
I was entrusted a copy of this book by Booksprout. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
Fast forward twenty years and she’s ready for him. But Cole was hurt in the past and not willing to open his heart again to the one that destroyed it.
Will they get a second chance at love or will they end up going their separate ways?
I have to confess that not having read the previous stories, I missed the connection with the characters from those stories. Also, it took me a while to warm up to Mia.
I was entrusted a copy of this book by Booksprout. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
December 27, 2022
How Does She Do It?
This is the last new release for me of 2022 and my heart couldn’t be happier. Takeback is now giving Triple Canopy a run for its money as my favorite series!
Cole is the fun easy one in the group. I thoroughly enjoyed watching him lose his cool over Mia. She’s in trouble and picks Cole to help her out because of their history. I love them both so much.
This book was on the shorter side, but packed full of emotion, steam & story. The cameos from characters in the previous books are fantastic. Brooklyn & Letty are total girl friend goals. The introduction of some new characters has me clamoring for more. If Riley Edwards writes it, I’m reading it.
This is the last new release for me of 2022 and my heart couldn’t be happier. Takeback is now giving Triple Canopy a run for its money as my favorite series!
Cole is the fun easy one in the group. I thoroughly enjoyed watching him lose his cool over Mia. She’s in trouble and picks Cole to help her out because of their history. I love them both so much.
This book was on the shorter side, but packed full of emotion, steam & story. The cameos from characters in the previous books are fantastic. Brooklyn & Letty are total girl friend goals. The introduction of some new characters has me clamoring for more. If Riley Edwards writes it, I’m reading it.
December 25, 2022
I will always read a book by Ryley Edwards. This book is not as action-packed as her previous books. I still enjoyed reading it. You see previous couples, teammates, and the one and only Shepherd.
This book is about a teammate's sister/second chance romance. Cole and Mia have a history. Unlike many other stories, the girl leaves the boy to become someone he deserves. Both spent 20 years with broken hearts. While it took 20 years, Mia finally feels she became equal to Cole. I feel this book could have been longer and deeper into how Mia became the woman she is now. This was a quick and easy read. While I wish there were more action scenes, it was overall a cute story.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This book is about a teammate's sister/second chance romance. Cole and Mia have a history. Unlike many other stories, the girl leaves the boy to become someone he deserves. Both spent 20 years with broken hearts. While it took 20 years, Mia finally feels she became equal to Cole. I feel this book could have been longer and deeper into how Mia became the woman she is now. This was a quick and easy read. While I wish there were more action scenes, it was overall a cute story.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 28, 2022
This one was pretty short compared to the others, but just as great.
I usually hate flashbacks, but I think I would’ve liked them here. I feel like Cole was so angry for so much of the book. We didn’t get much time with them happy and together. I think some flashbacks to when they fell in love could’ve helped us love them more, feel the emotions more strongly, and helped lengthen the book a bit. It was still great though.
I usually hate flashbacks, but I think I would’ve liked them here. I feel like Cole was so angry for so much of the book. We didn’t get much time with them happy and together. I think some flashbacks to when they fell in love could’ve helped us love them more, feel the emotions more strongly, and helped lengthen the book a bit. It was still great though.
December 25, 2022
Nobody writes sexy, broody, take charge alpha heroes like Riley Edwards. Cole and Mia’s story is the latest in the must read Takeback series.
Mia left Cole two decades ago, ripping his heart out and leaving hers behind. When Mia is in need of protection, it’s Cole’s arms where she most wants to be. Can Cole let go of the hurt and the years between and give her the safety she needs? Can Mia finally find the home she’s always known was with Cole?
All the guys from Takeback are once again facing danger head on and the girls are bringing a new sister into the fold. You won’t be disappointed.
Mia left Cole two decades ago, ripping his heart out and leaving hers behind. When Mia is in need of protection, it’s Cole’s arms where she most wants to be. Can Cole let go of the hurt and the years between and give her the safety she needs? Can Mia finally find the home she’s always known was with Cole?
All the guys from Takeback are once again facing danger head on and the girls are bringing a new sister into the fold. You won’t be disappointed.
December 27, 2022
Riley did it again. In the span of 250 pages, she made me laugh, cry, laugh again, get hit hard with all the feels, cry a hit again and then laugh again.
She writes epic heros and Cole is no stranger. Takeback is absolutely one of her better series.
I really love her references to other author’s and books, and I loved how the girl gang from the earlier books included in this one.
An epic read for sure!
She writes epic heros and Cole is no stranger. Takeback is absolutely one of her better series.
I really love her references to other author’s and books, and I loved how the girl gang from the earlier books included in this one.
An epic read for sure!
December 28, 2022
I absolutely loved Cole and Mia for each other. I really enjoy second chances, Riley has a wonderful gift of storytelling, she sucks you in from the first page and couldn't put it down until I was done. Love the characters, their friendships and how they all come together for each other. Great great read.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 24, 2022
This book is fantastic! I received this book and 6 hours later I’m sitting here knowing I’m going to have a book hangover in the morning. I literally could not put it down. I was sucked into a whirlwind of emotions from the start and wavered on if I was going to like the h, Mia, or not. Riley Edwards knows how to draw you in so you experience ALL of the emotions. Mia had left Cole over 20 years and left him, leaving them both gutted. I loved the talk about books and authors we all love. This book has “the girl posse” in all their glory, the Takeback team, action, suspense, lots of laughs and some seriously hot scenes. You definitely need to get this book now.
December 26, 2022
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. Through I haven't read the previous books in the series, I quickly got the hang-ups about Takeback. I imagine, walking away from the man you fell in love in your early 20s might just be as hard as to write it. Getting everything mapped out and coming full circle 20+ yrs. later. I very much like Riley Edwards books as she has the relationship of Mia and Cole that is just beneath the surface clearly developing. Great story.
December 28, 2022
I loved this book! Riley Edwards has a way of creating stories that capture you. I felt all of Cole’s and Mia’s feelings. It was an easy read. I love how Riley Edwards also includes characters from previous books as well. Letty is hilarious! Takeback is one of my favorite series.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 6, 2023
wow
I absolutely loved the newest Takeback book! They keep getting better and better! Mia and Cole have history together and a strong intense connection. So sit back, enjoy a drink and buckle up, you’re in for a treat! I can’t wait for Davis’s book.
I absolutely loved the newest Takeback book! They keep getting better and better! Mia and Cole have history together and a strong intense connection. So sit back, enjoy a drink and buckle up, you’re in for a treat! I can’t wait for Davis’s book.
December 25, 2022
Should we be pissed at Cole for being a jerk to Mia or be pissed for him for being hurt? Should we be hurt for Mia at how Cole treats her or be pissed at Mia for leaving the way she did? So many emotions as we discover what happened and the path they take to find their HEA. Don't get the wonderful characters in the team & the constant danger that surrounds them that keeps it interesting.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 26, 2022
I really enjoyed this book. Dangerous Minds was consumed in one day, couldn't put it down. To me it was a different style from the author am used to. We heard about Mia in previous books. She was Cole's one that got away. After 20+ years they get their HEA. This story line was basically just about them getting over the past and moving on. We get to see how action from one person affect both throughout the time apart. The pull between them is undeniable.
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