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Reclaimed Hearts #3
Red Flagged
Ex-US Marshal turned Cooper Springs Chief of Police, Andre Dear isn’t looking for love. He’s too busy hunting a killer.
The last person Andre expected to see in Cooper Springs was Dante Castone. He left Dante and the rest of his old life behind him when he moved to Washington State and what he thought would be a quiet job in a small town by the ocean.
Dante Brown went into WITSEC for his sister’s kid--sort of.
In reality, Dante's DIYing it; he isn’t the trusting sort. Daniella was the only witness to her mom’s brutal murder and needs both protection and anonymity--plus as normal a life as possible. It's just a bonus that Cooper Springs has Andre Dear too.
He and Andre have a history, and Dante wants to see if they might have a future. Someone is gunning for Andre and, like it or not, Dante is going to protect him. And yeah, feed him too. Does the man never eat?
Andre needs Dante’s help even if he doesn’t want to accept it. Dante's ready to settle down but he’s going to have to prove himself before Andre lets him in again.
Together, they need to catch a killer and maybe find each other in the process.
Red Flagged is book three in the Reclaimed Hearts series. A second-chance, older-lovers redemption story and thrilling romantic suspense set in the wilds of the Olympic Peninsula.
The last person Andre expected to see in Cooper Springs was Dante Castone. He left Dante and the rest of his old life behind him when he moved to Washington State and what he thought would be a quiet job in a small town by the ocean.
Dante Brown went into WITSEC for his sister’s kid--sort of.
In reality, Dante's DIYing it; he isn’t the trusting sort. Daniella was the only witness to her mom’s brutal murder and needs both protection and anonymity--plus as normal a life as possible. It's just a bonus that Cooper Springs has Andre Dear too.
He and Andre have a history, and Dante wants to see if they might have a future. Someone is gunning for Andre and, like it or not, Dante is going to protect him. And yeah, feed him too. Does the man never eat?
Andre needs Dante’s help even if he doesn’t want to accept it. Dante's ready to settle down but he’s going to have to prove himself before Andre lets him in again.
Together, they need to catch a killer and maybe find each other in the process.
Red Flagged is book three in the Reclaimed Hearts series. A second-chance, older-lovers redemption story and thrilling romantic suspense set in the wilds of the Olympic Peninsula.
238 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 30, 2023
135 people are currently reading
97 people want to read
About the author
Elle Keaton
51 books546 followersElle Keaton is a writer, avid reader, and amateur cat-wrangler. Her love of romance novels has led her to a life of creating her own happy ever afters. She is the author of the best selling series' Shielded Hearts and Veiled Intentions. Keaton hails from the Pacific Northwest, where she lives with her husband and cats.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 111 reviews
December 23, 2024
This entire series seems to be interrelated with characters and events that took place in previous books barging in and out...it does sometimes become a bit confusing.
Chief Andre Dear of the Cooper Springs Police Department is a retired U.S. Marshall that wanted a slower and quieter life. So far that's not what he has gotten in this small Oregon town of Cooper Springs. Dead bodies, old newly discovered bones, a missing girl…there’s something going on that just isn't right, and it's Andre's job to find out what it is....and STOP it.
So far, the books in this series are introduced with the narration of a raven flying over the area and ruminating on what seems to be taking place.... a bird's eye view...literally. Clever and unusual ploy by the author. There’s just enough information from the raven’s perspective to make the reader curious. Then a scene from some earlier events, gives us background on Andre Dear and Dante Castone, an undercover agent for the DEA, who has been frequently warming Andre's bed whenever he's in the state.
The story then goes back in time a little we get see what took place when Dante and his niece first moved to Cooper Springs to hide out from the who they suspected was responsible form Andre's sister's murder. The relationship story takes a short back seat to the crime. Someone is after Andre and his niece, Daniella. Who is it? Why are they after them? Is everything connected? Some elements of the story are annoying…why aren’t Andre and Dante giving key pieces of information to each other, especially when it would help keep them safe?
I liked both the suspense element of the story and the developing relationship between Andre and Dante. The mystery is exciting...a real mystery is often missing from M/M romances that are described as mysteries...but not in this series... and I loved the way it ended. It was nothing short of just sweet. Our Raven friend returned to wind things up and bring us back to focus on the overarching story. A very mysterious ending that I'm sure will take up in the next book.
Note: There is a similar series by this same author that has some of the same characters, so if you want to be sure you are reading the right series, I suggest that you check them on the Amazon site for the books in the "Reclaimed Hearts" series.
Chief Andre Dear of the Cooper Springs Police Department is a retired U.S. Marshall that wanted a slower and quieter life. So far that's not what he has gotten in this small Oregon town of Cooper Springs. Dead bodies, old newly discovered bones, a missing girl…there’s something going on that just isn't right, and it's Andre's job to find out what it is....and STOP it.
So far, the books in this series are introduced with the narration of a raven flying over the area and ruminating on what seems to be taking place.... a bird's eye view...literally. Clever and unusual ploy by the author. There’s just enough information from the raven’s perspective to make the reader curious. Then a scene from some earlier events, gives us background on Andre Dear and Dante Castone, an undercover agent for the DEA, who has been frequently warming Andre's bed whenever he's in the state.
The story then goes back in time a little we get see what took place when Dante and his niece first moved to Cooper Springs to hide out from the who they suspected was responsible form Andre's sister's murder. The relationship story takes a short back seat to the crime. Someone is after Andre and his niece, Daniella. Who is it? Why are they after them? Is everything connected? Some elements of the story are annoying…why aren’t Andre and Dante giving key pieces of information to each other, especially when it would help keep them safe?
I liked both the suspense element of the story and the developing relationship between Andre and Dante. The mystery is exciting...a real mystery is often missing from M/M romances that are described as mysteries...but not in this series... and I loved the way it ended. It was nothing short of just sweet. Our Raven friend returned to wind things up and bring us back to focus on the overarching story. A very mysterious ending that I'm sure will take up in the next book.
Note: There is a similar series by this same author that has some of the same characters, so if you want to be sure you are reading the right series, I suggest that you check them on the Amazon site for the books in the "Reclaimed Hearts" series.
January 9, 2024
4.5 stars
August 27, 2025
Andre Dear is the late-forties police chief of the tiny Cooper Springs PD. He has one great deputy, and one lousy old-boy deputy he wants to get rid of. He's been on the job the past year, and really enjoying his time in the tiny oceanside Oregon town. It's been a relaxing change of pace from being a US Deputy Marshall. Except bodies seem to keep piling up. And now a familiar face from his past has shockingly resurfaced.
Dante Castone is in his late thirties, and surprised to still be alive. He's been an undercover cop for years, helping various departments gather intel. Then one day he gets a call that ends his career: his sister has been brutally murdered and her daughter was the only witness. Rejecting witness protection, the pair go in hiding undercover in... Cooper Springs, where Dante is well aware his former lover Andre is. Two years ago the pair started a sex-only relationship that, in Dante's mind, became meaningful, but before Dante could say anything, Andre disappeared without a word. Six months later, Dante and Daniella have established themselves in Cooper Springs, and Dante is ready to make himself known to Andre to try again.
Only between the bodies of missing people turning up, and now someone taking shots at Andre, they have a crisis on their hands.
Finishing this, my first reaction was "not great." The beginning was super awkward and neither character really got some real development. Most of events happened to the characters, they never really grew out of it. I feel like the author also tried to shoehorn too much of her other long-gestating mysteries (the bodies of the missing people) in this series into this and has really neglected to address that. The author needs to move on from finding bodies to, you know, actually solving the mysteries.
Except now I think I know who the killer is since the author wrote a very jarring and extremely out of place sentence about a particular character Also, linking to other series, characters from the author's other series make some very unlikely and unnecessary appearances, including Sasha "just keeping my hand in even though I'm retired" Bolic and Niall "why am I here again?" Hamarsson. It just felt like she's bringing in characters or name dropping others because she doesn't know what she wants to do with the meat of the story.
Two stars; not worth it.
Dante Castone is in his late thirties, and surprised to still be alive. He's been an undercover cop for years, helping various departments gather intel. Then one day he gets a call that ends his career: his sister has been brutally murdered and her daughter was the only witness. Rejecting witness protection, the pair go in hiding undercover in... Cooper Springs, where Dante is well aware his former lover Andre is. Two years ago the pair started a sex-only relationship that, in Dante's mind, became meaningful, but before Dante could say anything, Andre disappeared without a word. Six months later, Dante and Daniella have established themselves in Cooper Springs, and Dante is ready to make himself known to Andre to try again.
Only between the bodies of missing people turning up, and now someone taking shots at Andre, they have a crisis on their hands.
Finishing this, my first reaction was "not great." The beginning was super awkward and neither character really got some real development. Most of events happened to the characters, they never really grew out of it. I feel like the author also tried to shoehorn too much of her other long-gestating mysteries (the bodies of the missing people) in this series into this and has really neglected to address that. The author needs to move on from finding bodies to, you know, actually solving the mysteries.
Except now I think I know who the killer is since the author wrote a very jarring and extremely out of place sentence about a particular character Also, linking to other series, characters from the author's other series make some very unlikely and unnecessary appearances, including Sasha "just keeping my hand in even though I'm retired" Bolic and Niall "why am I here again?" Hamarsson. It just felt like she's bringing in characters or name dropping others because she doesn't know what she wants to do with the meat of the story.
Two stars; not worth it.
December 18, 2023
This is definitely my favorite book of this series so far. I love Andre and Dante together, their story is an attention-getter, and I was completely invested in these two from start to finish. Also, I’m not normally a fan of kids in my stories, but Daniella fits perfectly especially since much of her part is solidly tied into the drama and suspense of the story.
I will recommend that you read this series in order. While each story could stand on its own in regards to each couple’s romance, there is an underlying plot that continues from one to the next as the mystery central to the series keeps on building. You’ll want to hear the stories of the other couples anyway once you meet them in their supporting roles here in this book.
Andre came to Cooper Springs hoping to settle into a quiet town after the faster paced life he had as a US Marshal. He’s settled in pretty well, but definitely wasn’t expecting Dante to show up in town. The two have a not-too-distant past together that was primarily physical—something that they were VERY good at together.
Dante is trying to protect his niece, and believes the little town of Cooper Springs is a good place for them to keep themselves off the radar of some very bad people. For Dante, it is also a chance to try and make a go of things with Andre again…if he can convince Andre of that.
The two of them are really good together, not just physically, and they also work good together in trying to figure out who is coming after Andre and also keeping Daniella safe. The mystery and suspense are intriguing and not to be cliché, but I was glued to the pages with this one. That suspense continues to build throughout the story, ratcheting up the excitement level until the main conflict scene near the end.
Red Flagged was a great read and is getting 4.5 stars from me. I can’t wait to see what’s in store for the rest of the series, and would highly recommend this book and full series to any M/M romantic suspense fans. This story is meant for mature readers for adult language and sexual content.
I will recommend that you read this series in order. While each story could stand on its own in regards to each couple’s romance, there is an underlying plot that continues from one to the next as the mystery central to the series keeps on building. You’ll want to hear the stories of the other couples anyway once you meet them in their supporting roles here in this book.
Andre came to Cooper Springs hoping to settle into a quiet town after the faster paced life he had as a US Marshal. He’s settled in pretty well, but definitely wasn’t expecting Dante to show up in town. The two have a not-too-distant past together that was primarily physical—something that they were VERY good at together.
Dante is trying to protect his niece, and believes the little town of Cooper Springs is a good place for them to keep themselves off the radar of some very bad people. For Dante, it is also a chance to try and make a go of things with Andre again…if he can convince Andre of that.
The two of them are really good together, not just physically, and they also work good together in trying to figure out who is coming after Andre and also keeping Daniella safe. The mystery and suspense are intriguing and not to be cliché, but I was glued to the pages with this one. That suspense continues to build throughout the story, ratcheting up the excitement level until the main conflict scene near the end.
Red Flagged was a great read and is getting 4.5 stars from me. I can’t wait to see what’s in store for the rest of the series, and would highly recommend this book and full series to any M/M romantic suspense fans. This story is meant for mature readers for adult language and sexual content.
December 12, 2023
This next book in the Reclaimed Hearts (Cooper Springs) series gives us Chief of Police, Andre Dear's story and I was so here for it. Andre appeared in the previous book as a somewhat stoic and a little sad so I was very curious for his back story.
Andre and Dante were lovers back in Portland; Andre a US Marshall and Dante an undercover DEA agent. Their affair was passionate until Andre left, Dante having no idea where he had gone. When Dante appears in Cooper Springs with his niece in tow, Andre is anxious, not wanting to restart their affair. However, Dante is determined not to lose Andre again.
The murder backstory from the previous books continues to provide a backdrop here though not in a way that interferes. The way Elle Keaton weaves the current murder mystery with the backstory is seamless. The chemistry between Andre and Dante is scorching and they are both so sweet together.
I cant wait for the next book and I totally want to know what's going on with that raven!
ARC received for my honest review.
Andre and Dante were lovers back in Portland; Andre a US Marshall and Dante an undercover DEA agent. Their affair was passionate until Andre left, Dante having no idea where he had gone. When Dante appears in Cooper Springs with his niece in tow, Andre is anxious, not wanting to restart their affair. However, Dante is determined not to lose Andre again.
The murder backstory from the previous books continues to provide a backdrop here though not in a way that interferes. The way Elle Keaton weaves the current murder mystery with the backstory is seamless. The chemistry between Andre and Dante is scorching and they are both so sweet together.
I cant wait for the next book and I totally want to know what's going on with that raven!
ARC received for my honest review.
July 20, 2025
It was messy and kind of boring 😴 ! I skipped a lot in the first half of the story.
The author tried to manage too many plots !
There were so many things happening that it got very hard to follow and the romance ended up being set aside. What a mess !!
There were very little character development.
The author tried to manage too many plots !
There were so many things happening that it got very hard to follow and the romance ended up being set aside. What a mess !!
There were very little character development.
November 30, 2023
Red Flagged by Elle Keaton is the 3rd book in her Reclaimed Hearts series. I highly suggest that you read the other books first so you understand the mystery that is taking place in Cooper Springs as well as to meet characters that also appear in this story. Andre had been in the U.S. Marshall Service for many years and was looking for a way out as he was tired of the high stakes job. That came when he was offered the job of Chief of Police in small town Cooper Springs and he jumped at the chance. Dante was an undercover agent and when he met Andre there was an instant attraction that they acted on in some steamy scenes, but they were only for one night until he disappeared until the next time he was in town. Andre also knew that this situation was not ideal for him so it was another reason he escaped to his new job. Then Dante’s sister was murdered over a mob boss case she was to prosecute and her daughter saw it happen. Luckily they didn’t get her too, but knew she saw them. Dante then left his job to take care of her as she was his only relative left that he had anything to do with. It was suggested that they go into Witness Protection but he declined because he felt he could protect her himself. When Andre had left Dante had just realized that he was coming to mean more than one night stands to him but he didn’t have a chance to see what they could become to one another. He then found out he was in Cooper Springs and decided to move there with his niece, Daniella. It took a few weeks until he could connect with a shocked Andre because there was a lot of murder and mayhem going on in the town, including finding bodies and bones of humans, that Andre was trying to solve. Then someone shot at Andre and he had to confide in him why he and Daniella were in Cooper Springs. By this time they were spending more time together and Dante confided that he wanted more with Andre. He had to prove to him that he meant this, but it was hard because more shots were being fired, someone was trying to get to him and his niece, and Andre was still trying to solve the town’s mysteries. But in the end they figured out who was behind what was going on and they were able to breathe a sigh of relief, get together for real, and declare their love for each other. I really enjoyed this book. It contained not only a love story but also several mysteries to be solved. There were some very suspenseful scenes that kept me riveted as I didn’t want to stop reading so I could find out what happened next. Andre was a good man who was trying to do the best he could for the town but he was also lonely. Dante was somewhat cocky but was also doing his best for his niece. He also had an interesting past in what his family was into that he wanted no part of. Daniella was brave and the police department, what little there was of it, and the town rallied around them and were vital to saving them when times got tough. There were also some very hot love scenes throughout the story. I highly recommend this book and I’m looking forward to reading the next one in the series. Andre’s and Dante’s mystery was solved but the ones about what was happening in the town were not and I want to find out what happens with those.
December 14, 2023
Enter the weird world of Cooper Springs, where Big Foot is the topic of conversation.
US Marshall, Andre Dear wanted an uncomplicated life and something easier before retirement. He made the decision to take the job as police chief in the little town of Cooper Springs. He also needed to get away from Dante Castone, DEA undercover operator. The sex between them was better than good, but there was no commitment and that’s what Andre really needed in a true relationship.
But Cooper Springs, isn’t so peaceful. Dear’s faced with: discovered bones, missing people, unidentified bodies, and two young people with a questionable home life. He also has to deal with understaffed and budget issues that don’t fill his need to get the job done. He also has to watch his step with Officer Trent, who’s been a thorn in his side. At least he still has Detective Lani Cooper and dispatcher Carol Page.
Dante Castone, has made a decision after his sister, Simone Maddison’s, traumatic death. He now needs to protect his niece Daniella, who witnessed her mother’s murder. Castone won’t take witness protection, he’ll take care of that himself. He knows just where to go. He’s got his niece packed up and arrangements made for a small house in Cooper Springs. He’s also got unfinished business with Andre Dear. It was a shock to Dante when he went to Andre’s home and found he didn’t live there anymore.
Besides all the headaches that Andre has, he will again have to deal with Dante. They will have to have some serious conversations about their relationship? Being two law enforcement men do not make a match. Can they make it work and do they want it too? Or will it be too late when someone is aiming for the kill shot?
Elle Keaton knows how to bring all the fast paced action and twisted danger to the page! “Red Flagged” the third book in the “Reclaimed Heart” series will keep readers on the edge of their seats. The story will show the dilemma’s that Andre is facing just with being the Chief of the police department. It’s also reflects on the determination of Simone and Dante as they broke from a mob family. The author also gives us those hard working women: Det. Lani Cooper and Carol Page. Lani with the haunted house and Carol who has a great suggestion to bring in Nick Waugh as her replacement. That should get interesting! The West Coast Forensics gets involved as Ethan Moore comes to identify the bones and Sacha Bolic and my favorite, Niall Hamarsson come along for the ride. To top it all off Morrison is an interesting character and Chris Hatch seems to be hiding a secret.
I highly suggest “Red Flagged” from the “Reclaimed Hearts” series by Elle Keaton. This is fast paced, on the edge of you seat excitement, with so many mysteries mixed in, that keeps the readers guessing. It’s also got that fun banter and steamy moments with Andre and Dante. The danger is off the charts as bullets are flying and you never know who will be next. This was one wild ride, I loved it!
US Marshall, Andre Dear wanted an uncomplicated life and something easier before retirement. He made the decision to take the job as police chief in the little town of Cooper Springs. He also needed to get away from Dante Castone, DEA undercover operator. The sex between them was better than good, but there was no commitment and that’s what Andre really needed in a true relationship.
But Cooper Springs, isn’t so peaceful. Dear’s faced with: discovered bones, missing people, unidentified bodies, and two young people with a questionable home life. He also has to deal with understaffed and budget issues that don’t fill his need to get the job done. He also has to watch his step with Officer Trent, who’s been a thorn in his side. At least he still has Detective Lani Cooper and dispatcher Carol Page.
Dante Castone, has made a decision after his sister, Simone Maddison’s, traumatic death. He now needs to protect his niece Daniella, who witnessed her mother’s murder. Castone won’t take witness protection, he’ll take care of that himself. He knows just where to go. He’s got his niece packed up and arrangements made for a small house in Cooper Springs. He’s also got unfinished business with Andre Dear. It was a shock to Dante when he went to Andre’s home and found he didn’t live there anymore.
Besides all the headaches that Andre has, he will again have to deal with Dante. They will have to have some serious conversations about their relationship? Being two law enforcement men do not make a match. Can they make it work and do they want it too? Or will it be too late when someone is aiming for the kill shot?
Elle Keaton knows how to bring all the fast paced action and twisted danger to the page! “Red Flagged” the third book in the “Reclaimed Heart” series will keep readers on the edge of their seats. The story will show the dilemma’s that Andre is facing just with being the Chief of the police department. It’s also reflects on the determination of Simone and Dante as they broke from a mob family. The author also gives us those hard working women: Det. Lani Cooper and Carol Page. Lani with the haunted house and Carol who has a great suggestion to bring in Nick Waugh as her replacement. That should get interesting! The West Coast Forensics gets involved as Ethan Moore comes to identify the bones and Sacha Bolic and my favorite, Niall Hamarsson come along for the ride. To top it all off Morrison is an interesting character and Chris Hatch seems to be hiding a secret.
I highly suggest “Red Flagged” from the “Reclaimed Hearts” series by Elle Keaton. This is fast paced, on the edge of you seat excitement, with so many mysteries mixed in, that keeps the readers guessing. It’s also got that fun banter and steamy moments with Andre and Dante. The danger is off the charts as bullets are flying and you never know who will be next. This was one wild ride, I loved it!
December 21, 2023
Check out our full post for RED FLAGGED on Wicked Reads, which includes an excerpt.
Reviews by the Wicked Reads Review Team
Ruthie – ☆☆☆☆
This is the third book in the series and runs concurrently with some of the events of book two – most definitely following on from book one – so you really should read them in order! Each book focusses on a different relationship, but the underlying plotlines benefit from prior knowledge.
In this installment, we learn more about the Chief of Police and his past, as well as learning about who could also be in his present and future. André is staggered to see the man who ghosted him turn up in his small, backwater town, but is planning on finding out just why Dante is staying there with his niece. He not only finds out that the spark is still there between them, but that there are fireworks of a criminal nature not conducive to their survival. I really enjoyed the drama, especially when even André realises that going to a remote location alone wasn't the wisest move!
It was refreshing that they accepted that should they resolve the problems surrounding them, that they had every intention of making a future together – and we had enough going on without questions over the romance too! As well as their bit of crazy, we are still in the dark about the other murders in the town, so I am already looking forward to more clues in the next book.
Reviewers received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
December 14, 2023
Elle Keaton’s Reclaimed Hearts series is a fantastic steamy MM suspense series that keeps you on your toes. Red Flagged was action packed from start to finish. It’s a second chance, small town romance where our two MMCs Dante and Andre are trying to stay alive the whole time. PLUS there is a bigger story ARC for the series that is painstakingly revealing its secrets slowly with each new addition. The small town of Cooper Springs has hidden its secrets well and I’m quite sure we don’t even know the whole of it. I also really enjoyed that parts of each book overlap with previous stories so you get glimpses of a few scenes from multiple character POVs. It has really helped me keep the timeline straight even between releases.
Andre wanted the quiet life when he left the Marshals Service, but that is not what he’s gotten. Dante, an undercover DEA agent, is pulled from the field when his niece needs him. Not wanting to go into WITSEC, he hides them both off the grid in Cooper Springs while hoping he can pursue a future with Andre, the town’s new police chief. When threats start coming for Andre and a killer is on the loose, he realizes he needs Dante more than ever.
I quickly fell for Dante. He’s a bit of a bad boy, but with a good heart. And I liked Andre, the town’s police chief, from his first moment on page. Since this is a second chance romance, the story opens before they meet again in Cooper Springs. The heat between them is tangible. After losing Andre, I love how Dante saw an opportunity to go after his happiness. This story balances the sweetness of their love story, with a little steam, with non-stop action and suspense. These guys can’t get a break from being shot at or the weather. The story is full of twists and red herrings, and the ending made me smile. I love how Dante surprised Andre with each layer he revealed while showing Andre what they could have together. I read this book so fast and wish I had been able to binge it in a day. I’m really looking forward to picking apart the bigger mystery of the series too. I’m SO invested now!
Andre wanted the quiet life when he left the Marshals Service, but that is not what he’s gotten. Dante, an undercover DEA agent, is pulled from the field when his niece needs him. Not wanting to go into WITSEC, he hides them both off the grid in Cooper Springs while hoping he can pursue a future with Andre, the town’s new police chief. When threats start coming for Andre and a killer is on the loose, he realizes he needs Dante more than ever.
I quickly fell for Dante. He’s a bit of a bad boy, but with a good heart. And I liked Andre, the town’s police chief, from his first moment on page. Since this is a second chance romance, the story opens before they meet again in Cooper Springs. The heat between them is tangible. After losing Andre, I love how Dante saw an opportunity to go after his happiness. This story balances the sweetness of their love story, with a little steam, with non-stop action and suspense. These guys can’t get a break from being shot at or the weather. The story is full of twists and red herrings, and the ending made me smile. I love how Dante surprised Andre with each layer he revealed while showing Andre what they could have together. I read this book so fast and wish I had been able to binge it in a day. I’m really looking forward to picking apart the bigger mystery of the series too. I’m SO invested now!
December 8, 2023
Loved It!
Another brilliant edition to the series with Elle as usual weaving romance and murder seamlessly. I love her style of writing as I love thrillers and swoony hot guys and her descriptive writing based in the scenic wilds of Washington State and home to Sasquash, is the perfect backdrop for murder mysteries.
This book gives us André and Dante’s story and we are back in the small town of Cooper Springs. André was a US Marshal but had fallen out of love with the job and so quit to become the new Sheriff of Cooper Springs. Dante has worked undercover for the DEA for years but had started thinking of settling down and his on/off hookup was forefront in his mind. When he finishes a job he goes home only to find that André has left, with no word, and so he goes back undercover on another job.
Dante’s life falls apart when his sister is brutally murdered and he is called home. His teenage niece saw the whole thing and they want to put her in WITSEC but Dante refuses. He will protect her and where better than the remote small town of Cooper Springs and Sheriff André Dear.
Whilst I love each couples story I also love the underlying story of bodies, old and new, turning up on the mountain trails and the threat of a serial killer who has been active for decades. It was also a brilliant way to bring some of the West Coast Forensic guys into the story.
This is a cracking story with serious bad guys, bullets flying, people getting hurt and of course murder, all laced with a developing romance and hot love between two mature fit men.
With both men being in law enforcement there was more action and suspense in this book and whilst André and Dante solve their mystery I can’t wait for the next book for more threads on the ongoing mystery.
Highly recommend.
Another brilliant edition to the series with Elle as usual weaving romance and murder seamlessly. I love her style of writing as I love thrillers and swoony hot guys and her descriptive writing based in the scenic wilds of Washington State and home to Sasquash, is the perfect backdrop for murder mysteries.
This book gives us André and Dante’s story and we are back in the small town of Cooper Springs. André was a US Marshal but had fallen out of love with the job and so quit to become the new Sheriff of Cooper Springs. Dante has worked undercover for the DEA for years but had started thinking of settling down and his on/off hookup was forefront in his mind. When he finishes a job he goes home only to find that André has left, with no word, and so he goes back undercover on another job.
Dante’s life falls apart when his sister is brutally murdered and he is called home. His teenage niece saw the whole thing and they want to put her in WITSEC but Dante refuses. He will protect her and where better than the remote small town of Cooper Springs and Sheriff André Dear.
Whilst I love each couples story I also love the underlying story of bodies, old and new, turning up on the mountain trails and the threat of a serial killer who has been active for decades. It was also a brilliant way to bring some of the West Coast Forensic guys into the story.
This is a cracking story with serious bad guys, bullets flying, people getting hurt and of course murder, all laced with a developing romance and hot love between two mature fit men.
With both men being in law enforcement there was more action and suspense in this book and whilst André and Dante solve their mystery I can’t wait for the next book for more threads on the ongoing mystery.
Highly recommend.
December 18, 2023
Another gripping story; I loved it!
Why oh why did I wait so long to read this book?! Well, life sometimes has a way of interfering with my plans. I've been a huge fan of Elle Keaton's books since I read my first one back in 2018. According to my reading records I blew through the first four books in the Shielded Hearts series in four days and I've never looked back. (The series was formerly called Accidental Roots.)
Red Flagged is a continuation of the first two books in the Reclaimed Hearts series (I think you should read these stories in order). Each book has a satisfying conclusion for the romance between the two main characters but there is an underlying mystery that has yet to be solved.
Dante and Andre had a thing a year or so ago and then they both kind of disappeared (not together 😊). They reconnect in Cooper Springs and find that the attraction between them is still there. The romance in this story is great but the mystery of who is trying to kill Andre is what really kept me on the edge of my seat while reading.
Elle Keaton is great at throwing out red-herrings and leaving several possibilities as to who the bad guys are. Also, the mystery of old bones, dead bodies and other things going on in Cooper Springs kept me turning the pages in my e-reader as fast as I could read.
I love second chance stories and this one for Dante and Andre was great with the bonus being that they are both older than 30. I love reading books about characters of all ages but it's especially fun when I get to read one about characters in the 30-50 years old range.
The epilogue wrapped everything very nicely while at the same time teasing us a bit for what might be coming next and I can't wait.
A copy of this book/audiobook was provided to me at my request and my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author/narrator.
***Reviewed for Xtreme-Delusions dot com***
Why oh why did I wait so long to read this book?! Well, life sometimes has a way of interfering with my plans. I've been a huge fan of Elle Keaton's books since I read my first one back in 2018. According to my reading records I blew through the first four books in the Shielded Hearts series in four days and I've never looked back. (The series was formerly called Accidental Roots.)
Red Flagged is a continuation of the first two books in the Reclaimed Hearts series (I think you should read these stories in order). Each book has a satisfying conclusion for the romance between the two main characters but there is an underlying mystery that has yet to be solved.
Dante and Andre had a thing a year or so ago and then they both kind of disappeared (not together 😊). They reconnect in Cooper Springs and find that the attraction between them is still there. The romance in this story is great but the mystery of who is trying to kill Andre is what really kept me on the edge of my seat while reading.
Elle Keaton is great at throwing out red-herrings and leaving several possibilities as to who the bad guys are. Also, the mystery of old bones, dead bodies and other things going on in Cooper Springs kept me turning the pages in my e-reader as fast as I could read.
I love second chance stories and this one for Dante and Andre was great with the bonus being that they are both older than 30. I love reading books about characters of all ages but it's especially fun when I get to read one about characters in the 30-50 years old range.
The epilogue wrapped everything very nicely while at the same time teasing us a bit for what might be coming next and I can't wait.
A copy of this book/audiobook was provided to me at my request and my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author/narrator.
***Reviewed for Xtreme-Delusions dot com***
November 30, 2023
I received a free book. This review is submitted voluntarily.
The book opens with André Dear’s decision to leave the US Marshall’s Service after having brought down a major human and drug trafficker and having the position of Police Chief in Cooper Springs. He’s decided to move there without advising his sometime lover, Dante Castone, since he doesn’t think that the relationship goes beyond just sex. Dante, an undercover DEA agent, learns that his sister has been murdered as she is the lead prosecutor in the case against the above-mentioned trafficker and now must look after his niece, Daniella. Rather than go into witness protection, he opts to go to Cooper Springs, knowing that André is there. After reacquainting himself with André, they later Start confessing feelings for each other. However, someone is gunning for Daniella and for André. They go through a lot of major adversity before arriving at their happy ending. The threats to Daniella and André are resolved but there is still the issue of human remains being found around the town, so the series continues.
Of all the books in the series, this is the most action-packed. Both main characters have backgrounds in law enforcement, so it makes sense. The book is longish, but it is a very quick read. The plot is bifurcated between the remains that are found and the threats to Daniella and André but concentrates more on the latter. The author does a great job of character development, especially the two main ones. Like many in the author’s works, they are somewhat flawed but still very sympathetic. The secondary characters contribute substantially to plot development, whether they are good or bad.
I have read/reviewed all the books in the series, and I find that this is a very worthy follow-on.
The book opens with André Dear’s decision to leave the US Marshall’s Service after having brought down a major human and drug trafficker and having the position of Police Chief in Cooper Springs. He’s decided to move there without advising his sometime lover, Dante Castone, since he doesn’t think that the relationship goes beyond just sex. Dante, an undercover DEA agent, learns that his sister has been murdered as she is the lead prosecutor in the case against the above-mentioned trafficker and now must look after his niece, Daniella. Rather than go into witness protection, he opts to go to Cooper Springs, knowing that André is there. After reacquainting himself with André, they later Start confessing feelings for each other. However, someone is gunning for Daniella and for André. They go through a lot of major adversity before arriving at their happy ending. The threats to Daniella and André are resolved but there is still the issue of human remains being found around the town, so the series continues.
Of all the books in the series, this is the most action-packed. Both main characters have backgrounds in law enforcement, so it makes sense. The book is longish, but it is a very quick read. The plot is bifurcated between the remains that are found and the threats to Daniella and André but concentrates more on the latter. The author does a great job of character development, especially the two main ones. Like many in the author’s works, they are somewhat flawed but still very sympathetic. The secondary characters contribute substantially to plot development, whether they are good or bad.
I have read/reviewed all the books in the series, and I find that this is a very worthy follow-on.
December 11, 2023
**4.5**
I'm really enjoying this series and Red Flagged is a great addition, bringing another two men together whilst dealing with a suspenseful case though, this time, it involves themselves.
Andre and Dante knew each other whilst in Portland but Andre needed out, only seeing Dante when he could escape undercover work in the dead of night. Bow Chief of Police in Cooper Springs, it's a whole different pace of life. Or it was until sets of remains were found. Now there are investigations for those, and for a missing person but the appearance of Dante in town with his teenage niece raises questions and feelings for the chief.
Both of these men are stubborn to the point of ridiculous which is entertaining until it comes to their health and safety. When it gets tense but also hot, we're all for that, and what a great couple they make too! However, Dante is determined to do things his way to keep his niece safe from those who killed her mother whilst Andre will keep policing the town, even when someone is actively trying to shoot him.
It develops into a suspenseful mystery of who did what, why it's happening and what's coming? I love the tension as we go through some of the scenes that have bullets flying, people disappearing and unexpected saviours. Things move quickly for Andre and Dante but it feels right for them and the high energy situation they're in. They also had their previous "relationship" though there wasn't really a lot of talking going on there.
Another highly recommended book from Elle Keaton. I'm really interested to find out what the team from West Coast Forensics find out in regards to the human remains, and the next couple in town to get their story.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
I'm really enjoying this series and Red Flagged is a great addition, bringing another two men together whilst dealing with a suspenseful case though, this time, it involves themselves.
Andre and Dante knew each other whilst in Portland but Andre needed out, only seeing Dante when he could escape undercover work in the dead of night. Bow Chief of Police in Cooper Springs, it's a whole different pace of life. Or it was until sets of remains were found. Now there are investigations for those, and for a missing person but the appearance of Dante in town with his teenage niece raises questions and feelings for the chief.
Both of these men are stubborn to the point of ridiculous which is entertaining until it comes to their health and safety. When it gets tense but also hot, we're all for that, and what a great couple they make too! However, Dante is determined to do things his way to keep his niece safe from those who killed her mother whilst Andre will keep policing the town, even when someone is actively trying to shoot him.
It develops into a suspenseful mystery of who did what, why it's happening and what's coming? I love the tension as we go through some of the scenes that have bullets flying, people disappearing and unexpected saviours. Things move quickly for Andre and Dante but it feels right for them and the high energy situation they're in. They also had their previous "relationship" though there wasn't really a lot of talking going on there.
Another highly recommended book from Elle Keaton. I'm really interested to find out what the team from West Coast Forensics find out in regards to the human remains, and the next couple in town to get their story.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
November 29, 2023
The Reclaimed Hearts series features men in their 40's living in the small town of Cooper Springs. Red Flagged features the town's sheriff and a regular hookup from his previous life. Cheif André Dare has been a lot of fun to get glimpses of in the two previous books. I knew when it was time for his story it was going to be story heavy but, also hot.
These stories are not stand alones as there is an ongoing investigation that is yet to be resolved. Each couple gets their hea within the story and are minor characters in other stories but the investigation is building through each book. And the ending of this one is definitely 😳🫣😳
André and Dante knew each other before Andre moved to Cooper Springs to become the sheriff. Dante is an undercover DEA who couldn't tell André anything but hooked up with him when he was in town. Never spending the night. André, understandably, got tired of it and when the position he applied for was offered to him he happily took it and left town without saying anything to Dante.
Dante's sister is tragically killed and he leaves the force to assume guardianship and protection of his neice. They move to Cooper Springs to hide out from the killer and also so Dante can get to know André more.
There is so much happening within this series and within this story. There are several deaths, a possible serial killer, mafia, corrupt law enforcement. I really feel like Elle Keaton did a great job with keeping all of the storylines coheasive, engaging, and well thought out. I know this series will continue for a few more books and I am here for them all!
These stories are not stand alones as there is an ongoing investigation that is yet to be resolved. Each couple gets their hea within the story and are minor characters in other stories but the investigation is building through each book. And the ending of this one is definitely 😳🫣😳
André and Dante knew each other before Andre moved to Cooper Springs to become the sheriff. Dante is an undercover DEA who couldn't tell André anything but hooked up with him when he was in town. Never spending the night. André, understandably, got tired of it and when the position he applied for was offered to him he happily took it and left town without saying anything to Dante.
Dante's sister is tragically killed and he leaves the force to assume guardianship and protection of his neice. They move to Cooper Springs to hide out from the killer and also so Dante can get to know André more.
There is so much happening within this series and within this story. There are several deaths, a possible serial killer, mafia, corrupt law enforcement. I really feel like Elle Keaton did a great job with keeping all of the storylines coheasive, engaging, and well thought out. I know this series will continue for a few more books and I am here for them all!
December 14, 2023
This is my favorite book in the series so far. It brings a new story to the forefront but the overarching story is still lurking in the background. Chief Andre Dear of the Cooper Springs Police Department is a retired US Marshall who wanted a slower and quieter life. That is not what he has gotten thus far in the small town. Dead bodies, discovered bones, a missing teen…there’s something afoot.
That is confirmed by the very intriguing start to this book…narrated by a raven flying over the area and ruminating on the goings on. There’s just enough information from the raven’s perspective to make the reader curious. Then we get a scene from earlier which gives us background on Andre and Dante Castone, an undercover agent for the DEA, who has been making booty calls to Andre whenever he is briefly in Portland. Then we get a scene which results in Dante and his niece moving to Cooper Springs to hide out and for Dante to try to win his man.
The relationship story takes a back seat to the criming. Someone is after Andre, or is it Dante and Daniella? Who is it? Why are they after them? Are they connected? Some elements of the story are annoying…why aren’t they giving key pieces of information to each other, especially when it would help keep them safe? It mostly I enjoyed both the suspense element of the story and the developing relationship.
The crisis point is exciting and I loved the way it ended. The ending of the book is sweet and then our friend the Raven is back to wind things up and bring us back to focus on the overarching story. A very mysterious ending that I just ate up with a spoon! I think I squealed out loud!
That is confirmed by the very intriguing start to this book…narrated by a raven flying over the area and ruminating on the goings on. There’s just enough information from the raven’s perspective to make the reader curious. Then we get a scene from earlier which gives us background on Andre and Dante Castone, an undercover agent for the DEA, who has been making booty calls to Andre whenever he is briefly in Portland. Then we get a scene which results in Dante and his niece moving to Cooper Springs to hide out and for Dante to try to win his man.
The relationship story takes a back seat to the criming. Someone is after Andre, or is it Dante and Daniella? Who is it? Why are they after them? Are they connected? Some elements of the story are annoying…why aren’t they giving key pieces of information to each other, especially when it would help keep them safe? It mostly I enjoyed both the suspense element of the story and the developing relationship.
The crisis point is exciting and I loved the way it ended. The ending of the book is sweet and then our friend the Raven is back to wind things up and bring us back to focus on the overarching story. A very mysterious ending that I just ate up with a spoon! I think I squealed out loud!
December 2, 2023
In true Ms. Keaton writing style this 3rd book in this Reclaimed Hearts series is filled with twists, turns, emotions, murder, and puns. Cooper Springs gives off the impression of a sleepy hick town truth is far from fiction. Discovered bones lead to a suspected serial killer with added hidden mobsters creating greater dangers.
The road to this HEA was a long hard journey with twists, turns, and puns, several possible suspects (aside from the oblivious ones), and surprise sicko from one of the main characters' past.
Andre and Dante have a great story to reveal. An undercover cop and a US Marshall guy, conflicting jobs but with the same goals. Dedicated jobs to seeking justice for victims keeps these men from personal commitment. These two men have an off-again, on-again relationship that Andre sees no future in, so he leaves his Marshall job to accept the police chief job unbeknownst that Dante is planning on firming up his relationship with Andre but his sister's murder and his guardianship of his niece Daniella, who witnessed said murder, takes precedence. Only Dante's refusal of WITSEC and, after finding out Andre's location, also moves to Cooper Springs to sort-of-solve two situations. Their mutual attraction cannot be ignored but dead bodies tend to put a damper on fulfillment. Throw in crazy local characters and a reader has an enjoyable read ahead of them. I savored this story and look forward to what's next. This is my voluntary review for the ARC I received.
The road to this HEA was a long hard journey with twists, turns, and puns, several possible suspects (aside from the oblivious ones), and surprise sicko from one of the main characters' past.
Andre and Dante have a great story to reveal. An undercover cop and a US Marshall guy, conflicting jobs but with the same goals. Dedicated jobs to seeking justice for victims keeps these men from personal commitment. These two men have an off-again, on-again relationship that Andre sees no future in, so he leaves his Marshall job to accept the police chief job unbeknownst that Dante is planning on firming up his relationship with Andre but his sister's murder and his guardianship of his niece Daniella, who witnessed said murder, takes precedence. Only Dante's refusal of WITSEC and, after finding out Andre's location, also moves to Cooper Springs to sort-of-solve two situations. Their mutual attraction cannot be ignored but dead bodies tend to put a damper on fulfillment. Throw in crazy local characters and a reader has an enjoyable read ahead of them. I savored this story and look forward to what's next. This is my voluntary review for the ARC I received.
December 20, 2023
~~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads ~~
This is the third book in the series, and runs concurrently with some of the events of book 2 - most definitely following on from book 1 - so you really should read them in order! Each book focusses on a different relationship, but the underlying plot-lines benefit from prior knowledge.
In this installment we learn more about the Chief of Police and his past, as well as learning about who could also be in his present and future. André is staggered to see the man who ghosted him turn up in his small backwater town, but is planning on finding out just why Dante is staying there with his niece. He not only finds out that the spark is still there between them, but that there are fireworks of a criminal nature not conducive to their survival. I really enjoyed the drama, especially when even André realises that going to a remote location alone wasn't the wisest move!
It was refreshing that they accepted that should they resolve the problems surrounding them, that they had every intention of making a future together - and we had enough going on without questions over the romance too! As well as their bit of crazy, we are still in the dark about the other murders in the town, so I am already looking forward to more clues in the next book.
This is the third book in the series, and runs concurrently with some of the events of book 2 - most definitely following on from book 1 - so you really should read them in order! Each book focusses on a different relationship, but the underlying plot-lines benefit from prior knowledge.
In this installment we learn more about the Chief of Police and his past, as well as learning about who could also be in his present and future. André is staggered to see the man who ghosted him turn up in his small backwater town, but is planning on finding out just why Dante is staying there with his niece. He not only finds out that the spark is still there between them, but that there are fireworks of a criminal nature not conducive to their survival. I really enjoyed the drama, especially when even André realises that going to a remote location alone wasn't the wisest move!
It was refreshing that they accepted that should they resolve the problems surrounding them, that they had every intention of making a future together - and we had enough going on without questions over the romance too! As well as their bit of crazy, we are still in the dark about the other murders in the town, so I am already looking forward to more clues in the next book.
November 30, 2023
👀Who can woo with danger everywhere?😟
4.5🌟 stars
I was captivated by the hot connection between Dante and Andre in this latest Elle Keaton Cooper Springs MM romantic suspense. So many fraught moments in the small coastal town and I just lapped them up! Both leads left their former federal law enforcement careers and Dante, instead of going into Witness Protection, chooses to protect his orphaned niece Dani by hiding out in Cooper Springs while at the same time seeking to build a relationship with his former periodic hook-up, beleaguered newcomer sheriff Andre Dear.
The guys are a great, protective pair. But the secondary characters are notable too. Teenage Dani, Deputy Lani Cooper and police department office manager/dispatcher Carol are cool and collected when danger strikes: you go, ladies! And the coterie of law enforcement types who roll into town provide some sharp wit and comic relief.
The mysterious local deaths and finds of human bones that begin stretching police resources at the start of the story do remain open ended (saved to solve in a following novel?) but, quite frankly, that did not matter because here was so much immediate danger to combat.
This was a story that was difficult to put down. I really liked the romance and steamy bits but loved the action and suspense.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest opinion.
4.5🌟 stars
I was captivated by the hot connection between Dante and Andre in this latest Elle Keaton Cooper Springs MM romantic suspense. So many fraught moments in the small coastal town and I just lapped them up! Both leads left their former federal law enforcement careers and Dante, instead of going into Witness Protection, chooses to protect his orphaned niece Dani by hiding out in Cooper Springs while at the same time seeking to build a relationship with his former periodic hook-up, beleaguered newcomer sheriff Andre Dear.
The guys are a great, protective pair. But the secondary characters are notable too. Teenage Dani, Deputy Lani Cooper and police department office manager/dispatcher Carol are cool and collected when danger strikes: you go, ladies! And the coterie of law enforcement types who roll into town provide some sharp wit and comic relief.
The mysterious local deaths and finds of human bones that begin stretching police resources at the start of the story do remain open ended (saved to solve in a following novel?) but, quite frankly, that did not matter because here was so much immediate danger to combat.
This was a story that was difficult to put down. I really liked the romance and steamy bits but loved the action and suspense.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest opinion.
December 1, 2023
"Red Flagged" hits it out of the park, marking a triumphant addition to an already exceptional series. The author's prowess shines through in the seamless combination of outstanding character development, a compelling blend of mystery, intrigue, and a dash of romance. From the first pages, readers will be captivated by characters that resonate and a storyline that keeps them on their toes, craving to uncover what lies ahead.
Being part of a series, "Red Flagged" stands firmly on its own, ensuring an enjoyable experience for those new to the saga. However, for seasoned readers of the series, the inclusion of cross-over characters and the deepening of their backstories adds a layer of richness and substance, enhancing the overall narrative.
The tantalizing mystery, stemming that started in "Adverse Conditions," continues its intricate unraveling in "Red Flagged," introducing new twists and turns that will keep readers hooked. While the resolution remains elusive, the journey itself is a gripping action-packed roller-coaster. As a reader, I found myself immersed in the heart-pounding excitement, eagerly anticipating each new revelation.
In conclusion, "Red Flagged" not only maintains the high standards set by its predecessors but also propels the series to new heights. This book is a must-read for fans of the genre, offering a perfect blend of suspense, character depth, and the kind of thrill that keeps you turning the pages.
Being part of a series, "Red Flagged" stands firmly on its own, ensuring an enjoyable experience for those new to the saga. However, for seasoned readers of the series, the inclusion of cross-over characters and the deepening of their backstories adds a layer of richness and substance, enhancing the overall narrative.
The tantalizing mystery, stemming that started in "Adverse Conditions," continues its intricate unraveling in "Red Flagged," introducing new twists and turns that will keep readers hooked. While the resolution remains elusive, the journey itself is a gripping action-packed roller-coaster. As a reader, I found myself immersed in the heart-pounding excitement, eagerly anticipating each new revelation.
In conclusion, "Red Flagged" not only maintains the high standards set by its predecessors but also propels the series to new heights. This book is a must-read for fans of the genre, offering a perfect blend of suspense, character depth, and the kind of thrill that keeps you turning the pages.
December 12, 2023
This is the third book in the Reclaimed Hearts series. You should really read these books in order as the mystery that is growing begins in book one and continues on throughout the series. This is the story of Andre Dear and Dante Castone/Brown. Andre is the new Chief of Police of Cooper Springs. When he saw that being a US Marshal would never let him have the home life that he wanted, he quit and took the Chief job when offered. Dante was an undercover DEA agent until his sister is murdered. His niece witnessed the murder. She is his only family so they decide to decline Witness Protection and go into hiding on their own. And Dante knows just where they should go; Cooper Springs. Unbeknown to anyone else, Dante and Andre had a "booty call" relationship while Dante was still undercover. When Andre left, he had no way to contact Dante. Besides, he wants to have a real relationship with someone. Dante didn't know that he wanted a real relationship until Andre was gone. So Andre is shocked when he sees Dante around town for the first time. This is their story. There is murder, attempted murder, and betrayal. The story will keep you on your toes. It is a very well written book and easy to read. I really loved this book. The mystery is not solved and continues on into the next book in the series. I am looking forward to reading it.
I received a free copy from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 30, 2023
Andre Dear wants a quiet life, so he leaves Portland and becomes the sheriff in Cooper Springs. He’ll miss Dante, a guy he was hooking up with, but he wants more than what they had.
Dante is sad without Andre, he was getting ready to ask him if they could try being in a relationship. But, after learning his sister has been killed and he needs to look after her daughter, he leaves his undercover job and takes her somewhere safe, Cooper Springs.
The town is unfortunately finding bodies all over the place, and Andre is trying to tackle it all with limited resources. Once he knows that Dante is trying to hide with his niece, they both start piecing together what’s going on. Someone keeps trying to kill Andre, and now Dani is another possible victim.
It all culminates in the murderer being connected to a criminal that’s awaiting trial, which affects both Dante and Andre.
This is a great instalment of the series. More bodies and mystery, and more characters connected to other worlds Elle Keaton has written about. I love seeing Ethan again, as well as Niall and Sacha.
The best character, though, is Carol, the dispatcher and front desk person at the station. She rules with an iron hand, and knows how to get things done. Also, the introduction from the raven’s viewpoint is excellent.
I received this ARC for free, and am providing my honest review with thanks.
Dante is sad without Andre, he was getting ready to ask him if they could try being in a relationship. But, after learning his sister has been killed and he needs to look after her daughter, he leaves his undercover job and takes her somewhere safe, Cooper Springs.
The town is unfortunately finding bodies all over the place, and Andre is trying to tackle it all with limited resources. Once he knows that Dante is trying to hide with his niece, they both start piecing together what’s going on. Someone keeps trying to kill Andre, and now Dani is another possible victim.
It all culminates in the murderer being connected to a criminal that’s awaiting trial, which affects both Dante and Andre.
This is a great instalment of the series. More bodies and mystery, and more characters connected to other worlds Elle Keaton has written about. I love seeing Ethan again, as well as Niall and Sacha.
The best character, though, is Carol, the dispatcher and front desk person at the station. She rules with an iron hand, and knows how to get things done. Also, the introduction from the raven’s viewpoint is excellent.
I received this ARC for free, and am providing my honest review with thanks.
November 30, 2023
This is the third in the Reclaimed Hearts series, it can be read as a standalone, it's better as part of the series as there's an overarching storyline connecting the series. This is Police Chief Andre Dear and Dante's story. Andre we have met previously, Dante is a new character. There are odd things happening in Cooper Springs, I can't wait to see the outcome of all of it, but this is more concerned with Andre and Dante's life than Cooper Springs itself.
There's a cracking storyline with Dante and his niece moving to town to avoid witness protection after Dante's sister is killed, and I loved how it was somehow also tied up with Andre, and him being the reason Dante chose to come to town. I liked these two together, they fitted so well, and it's almost like their story was secondary to the crime thriller storyline, which is not a bad thing, the two storylines were weaved together seamlessly. I couldn't put this down once I started it, I had to know how it was all going to come good in the end.
I really just want things to get easier for Andre, and I think by the end of the book it was all coming together for him. This moved along at a great pace with enough drama, tension and romance to keep it crackling along. I loved this and need the next one NOW.
I received an ARC and this is my honest review.
There's a cracking storyline with Dante and his niece moving to town to avoid witness protection after Dante's sister is killed, and I loved how it was somehow also tied up with Andre, and him being the reason Dante chose to come to town. I liked these two together, they fitted so well, and it's almost like their story was secondary to the crime thriller storyline, which is not a bad thing, the two storylines were weaved together seamlessly. I couldn't put this down once I started it, I had to know how it was all going to come good in the end.
I really just want things to get easier for Andre, and I think by the end of the book it was all coming together for him. This moved along at a great pace with enough drama, tension and romance to keep it crackling along. I loved this and need the next one NOW.
I received an ARC and this is my honest review.
December 6, 2023
Book 3 in the “ Reclaimed Hearts” series features André and Dante. André is an ex-US Marshall who was tired of his occasional hookups with Dante and wanted a real partner. He decided to pack it up and take the position of Chief of police in tiny Cooper Springs, without a word to Dante I might add. Dante, for his part, was an undercover DEA agent who couldn’t divulge that to André, but always had the feeling that André meant something more. After tragedy strikes, Dante quits the force and has to go into hiding with his niece and picks the quiet little town of Cooper Springs. Yes, he followed André there, but that’s as far as he got with his plan. After an initial booty call months after moving to town, the two men try to avoid each other without any success. It seems as if their orbits are drawn together, although they can’t figure out the reality of it yet. Another set of bones is found up on the mountain, which ties into the overarching theme of small town murders in this series, and when André gets shot at it’s up to Dante to state his feelings and come clean. He will have to protect his niece, himself and André from the men coming after them if the two men are to have a shot at their HEA. Loved the cameos from previous town characters. Definitely looking forward to the next book in this series.
December 1, 2023
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What starts with two men wanting different things in life, ends in both men finding exactly what they actually want from life—love, stability, family.
Elle Keaton always gives us fantastic romances set in crime-filled stories that keep us on our toes. And this one didn’t disappoint on either front.
These older men have careers that have kept them busy but there comes a point when one has to decide if it’s enough. For Andre that meant ending his booty call-only relationship with Dante and getting a fresh start as Cooper Springs Chief of Police.
Dante is forced to make that choice when he becomes the guardian of his niece when his sister is murdered. They need to hide out and the town where the one man he can’t forget has moved to seems like the perfect place.
What ensues is an action-packed story of them reconnecting, falling in love, and fighting like hell to protect their new family. Full of heat, humour and touching moments.
It also had some great cameos and plenty more mystery to be uncovered.
What starts with two men wanting different things in life, ends in both men finding exactly what they actually want from life—love, stability, family.
Elle Keaton always gives us fantastic romances set in crime-filled stories that keep us on our toes. And this one didn’t disappoint on either front.
These older men have careers that have kept them busy but there comes a point when one has to decide if it’s enough. For Andre that meant ending his booty call-only relationship with Dante and getting a fresh start as Cooper Springs Chief of Police.
Dante is forced to make that choice when he becomes the guardian of his niece when his sister is murdered. They need to hide out and the town where the one man he can’t forget has moved to seems like the perfect place.
What ensues is an action-packed story of them reconnecting, falling in love, and fighting like hell to protect their new family. Full of heat, humour and touching moments.
It also had some great cameos and plenty more mystery to be uncovered.
December 10, 2023
4.5⭐️
I’m enjoying this series, I love second chance stories and especially appreciate that the characters are a bit older. The mystery is really heating up in Cooper Springs putting Chief of Police Andre right in the middle of the danger. Which is not at all what he was expecting when he took the job in the small quiet town. He wanted a more peaceful life and some distance from Dante, they had a casual thing going but neither knew how to ask for more. Dante suddenly finds himself responsible for his niece who is a witness to her mother’s murder. The two find themselves in need of a safe hiding spot, and Cooper Springs of course is the perfect option. I really loved this right from the opening chapter which is so interesting and really creates a suspenseful and creepy atmosphere. I also love how the author is able to merge her various series and characters, it is really well done. This was my favorite so far the series, I loved both main characters and Dante and Andre are an excellent couple. The mystery is well crafted and I’ve enjoyed how the suspense has been building from book to book. And, the epilogue was pretty perfect. A great read.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
I’m enjoying this series, I love second chance stories and especially appreciate that the characters are a bit older. The mystery is really heating up in Cooper Springs putting Chief of Police Andre right in the middle of the danger. Which is not at all what he was expecting when he took the job in the small quiet town. He wanted a more peaceful life and some distance from Dante, they had a casual thing going but neither knew how to ask for more. Dante suddenly finds himself responsible for his niece who is a witness to her mother’s murder. The two find themselves in need of a safe hiding spot, and Cooper Springs of course is the perfect option. I really loved this right from the opening chapter which is so interesting and really creates a suspenseful and creepy atmosphere. I also love how the author is able to merge her various series and characters, it is really well done. This was my favorite so far the series, I loved both main characters and Dante and Andre are an excellent couple. The mystery is well crafted and I’ve enjoyed how the suspense has been building from book to book. And, the epilogue was pretty perfect. A great read.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
January 15, 2024
I’m already a fan of this series, and world, and loved Andre and Dante’s story. The mix of romance and suspense is gripping, and I liked that the MCs are older. I enjoyed catching up with the other residents of Cooper Springs, and getting a glimpse of these two before they move there.
I loved how this story wound around the timeline of the previous story with some of the action taking place at the same time but from a different perspective. The prologue is interesting, and gives a hint of the series arc, with murders still to be solved, and the hint of something evil in town.
I liked how Andre and Dante are both convinced the other doesn’t want a proper relationship. These guys needed to talk long before they finally did. Dante learning to parent Dani is realistic. I liked how others in town help out, and also figure out Andre and Dante before they work things out themselves.
The twists are clever. I liked the revelation about Dante’s family and how the red herring played out. Lani rocks. I enjoyed it when criminal idiots found that out. Watching Dante and Andre dance around their relationship while dodging bullets and bad guys had me turning pages.
Luna is a scene stealer. I loved her part in the story.
I hope Ethan gets his own book and HEA.
I loved how this story wound around the timeline of the previous story with some of the action taking place at the same time but from a different perspective. The prologue is interesting, and gives a hint of the series arc, with murders still to be solved, and the hint of something evil in town.
I liked how Andre and Dante are both convinced the other doesn’t want a proper relationship. These guys needed to talk long before they finally did. Dante learning to parent Dani is realistic. I liked how others in town help out, and also figure out Andre and Dante before they work things out themselves.
The twists are clever. I liked the revelation about Dante’s family and how the red herring played out. Lani rocks. I enjoyed it when criminal idiots found that out. Watching Dante and Andre dance around their relationship while dodging bullets and bad guys had me turning pages.
Luna is a scene stealer. I loved her part in the story.
I hope Ethan gets his own book and HEA.
December 14, 2023
Andre and Dante have a hot not relationship that consists of Dante showing up for an evening and disappearing before the sunrises. Andre wants more and he is tired of living in Portland and being in danger so while Dante is undercover and out of contact Andre applies for and accepts a Sheriff job in a small town. He retires from the U.S. Marshalls and heads towards a more peaceful life. That is until Dante's sister is murdered in front of his niece who was the only witness to the crimes and Dante has to create his own version of the witness protection program to keep her safe. He heads for Cooper Springs and Andre - their pull towards one another is dynamic. It turns out that Andre's life is not as peaceful in Cooper Springs as he thought it would be and adding Dante and Daniella to the mix along with their somewhat undefined relationship brings a lot of action of the personal kind to his life. That along with the unexpected action he is seeing in the small town makes for an interesting and engaging story from beginning to end. This is a good series, book after book. They do not disappoint.
I received an ARC from GRR and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received an ARC from GRR and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 11, 2024
I really can't decide between 5 or 4.5 stars for this low angst, high action story set in Cooper Springs (where some people truly expect to see Sasquatch). The story starts with the 2 MCs in the near past and shows their intense chemistry. Circumstances, however, just aren't in their favor for more than an unplanned visit now and then. So, with no communication to go with the sex, Andre moves on, taking advantage of an employment opportunity to do so. Fast forward to Andre's new job as Police Chief in Cooper Springs, where more things are happening than you would expect for a small town. Dante has also had some major life changing experiences, one of which is the realization that he wants more with Andre, so he's followed him to Cooper Springs to take a chance. The way they come together is not insta-anything but the insightful reasoning and communication of adults, which is my favorite. There are plenty of other things going on around them to keep the reader engaged and to give them thrills, all angst free. I was totally invested in these men, in the chaos, and in resolving the multiple mysteries. Best of the series so far.
December 1, 2023
Andre and Dante have a complicated history, that Andre thought was long over. And it was till Dante sows up in Cooper Springs where Andre is serving as Chief of Police. Seems long ago they had a relationship that was not open due to Dante being an undercover DEA agent. Suddenly now in Cooper Springs Dante is ready for a relationship and sets out to convince the not so sure Andre they belong together. With all the twists and turns, the mystery, and the oh my moments, I was on edge of seat reading adn before I knew it I had ready the entire thing. I had to know how it ended. Like many books in a series it can be read as standalone but if you do that you miss some of the familiar characters from earlier books showing up in this book, so read them all to get full impact. And while it has lots of mystery, murder, and mayhem, at its core it is a romance and love story. These two are perfect for one another. It is made even better with all the other characters who add to the plot rather than simply serve as fillers. I did receive an ARC and leave this honest review.
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