Crash Course

Steele Ridge: The Blackwells #4

by Adrienne Giordano

In the thrilling fourth installment of the Steele The Blackwells romantic suspense series, an ambitious attorney and a cunning recovery agent join forces to expose a dangerous web of corruption and deceit, risking everything for justice and love.

Hotshot defense attorney Priscilla Randolph has a reputation for winning the toughest of cases. When she stumbles upon a disturbing toxicology report for land her father's company intends to buy, she realizes her latest challenge might be her most personal. Confused by her father’s indifference to the report, Cilla is determined to uncover the truth.

And she knows just the man to help her.

Enter Cruz Blackwell, a hunky recovery agent adept at finding the unfindable. Ever since his chance meeting with the sexy-as-hell lawyer, he’s wanted to know her better. A whole lot better. When she enlists his help for a simple research assignment, he accepts—gladly—not realizing the storm he’s about to fly into.

Sparks ignite between Cilla and Cruz as they dig deeper, discovering a dangerous web of corruption and deceit. Someone will stop at nothing to prevent them from exposing the truth. Their fight for justice—and love—might cost them everything. Including their lives. If you would like to read the entire Steele Ridge series, here's a complete list. The The The

Genres: Romantic Suspense, Suspense, Contemporary

400 pages, Paperback

Published July 20, 2023

About the author

Author also writes as Anne Dano


Adrienne Giordano is a USA Today bestselling author of over forty romantic suspense, mystery and women’s fiction novels. She is a certified life coach with a passion for helping people reach their goals. Adrienne is a Jersey girl at heart, but now lives in the Midwest with her ultimate supporter of a husband, sports-obsessed son and Elliot, a snuggle-happy rescue. Having grown up near the ocean, Adrienne enjoys paddleboarding, a nice float in a kayak and lounging on the beach with a good book. For more information on Adrienne’s books, please visit www.AdrienneGiordano.com. Adrienne can also be found on Facebook (AdrienneGiordanoAuthor), Instagram and Goodreads.

Reviews

[Madison Warner Fairbanks · Rating 5 out of 5]

Crash Course by Adrienne Giordano
Steele Ridge: The Blackwells series #4. Multi-author series. Romantic suspense. Can be read as a stand-alone. Cameo and support from the prior characters in the series.
Cilla Randolph is unsettled by a report she finds about land with toxic chemicals found on it, but more so by her father’s lack of concern. The cavalier attitude is norm and she’s afraid there is something shady going on. Cilla asks Cruz Blackwell and his company to get involved to find out what’s really going on with the property.

Fast action and dangerous consequences as Cilla and Cruz investigate and spend time together flirting and then dealing with problems. Twists and weighty issues plus timely help, make it a pulse pounding ride.
Romantic suspense done right.

[Sandy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was lucky to get an ARC of this book and I loved the story and characters. Cruz Blackwell struggles with fitting into his family's new dynamics. Priscilla Randolph is a well-known defense attorney who starts to notice some things in her father that don't match how she thinks of him. Together,, Cruz and Cilla investigate events that will test Priscilla’s loyalty to her father and bring them closer together. They are a dynamic duo and the story has suspense paired beautifully with romance.

[Becky Claxon · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was exciting. It had friendship, good family, bad family, betrayal, love, and some suspense. I went through so many emotions which some were, happiness, disgust, and shock to name a few. I admired Priscilla or Cilla as most people called her. She worked so hard as an attorney, had empathy for people who were treated wrong, and came out on the other side from a narcissistic, bullying father. Cruz was the youngest of his brothers and had a temper he tried to keep under control and was trying to figure out what he wanted in his life. Cruz and Cilla were perfect for each other and I enjoyed watching the two get to know each other better. There were some bad things going on with Cilla’s father’s company that pulled Cilla in the middle with hard decisions she had to make. I strongly encourage you to read the book. I was given a copy and voluntarily wrote a review.

[Liz · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was fortunate to receive an ARC of this delightful story. Cruz and Cilia seem like an unlikely couple but the dynamics between them are honest and engaging. They have fun together despite dealing with some intense problems. The plot has several sneaky twists which will surprise you. And these twists help Cruz and Cilia grow individually and as a couple. There are some cameo appearances from previous characters from the Steele Ridge series as well. Crash Course is a wonderful addition to the Steele Ridge series and the Blackwell family is always fun to visit. Be sure to clear your schedule, because you are going to want to read this book to the last page in one sitting!

[Cathy Geha · Rating 5 out of 5]

Crash Course by Adrienne Giordano
Steele Ridge: The Blackwells#4

Chemistry, attraction, timing, a tantalizing mystery to solve, and honest open communication all work together to bring Cilla and Cruz together in this book. There is one more brother to find his match…can’t wait!

What I liked:
* Priscilla “Cilla” Randolph: criminal lawyer, daughter of rather difficult billionaire father, professional, believes in winning but also in justice, won’t break the law, will do what it takes to make things right, rather taken with Cruz
* Cruz Blackwell: one of five brothers, part of the BARS family recovery team, brilliant, short trigger, championship wrestler, interested in restoring a vintage car, pilot, needs space, not usually patient but willing to wait for Cilla
* Layla: Cilla’s assistant, protective, wise, efficient
* Getting to see the Blackwell brothers, their women, and mother again
* The plot, pacing, writing, and setting
* That the comradery, love, and support of the brothers for one another
* The way the relationship developed between Cruz and Cilla – loved the bac of the truck star gazing section
* That the person(s) behind the EPA violations, threats, and more was uncovered and hoping that justice will occur
* Knowing that there is another book to look forward to

What I didn’t like:
* Who and what I was meant not to like
* Thinking about people who are willing to do anything to anyone for money

Did I enjoy this book? Yes
Would I read more in this series? Definitely

Thank you to the author for the ARC – this is my honest review.

5 Stars

[Becky Burciaga · Rating 5 out of 5]

Crash Course, the fourth book in the Steele Ridge: The Blackwells series by Adrienne Giordano, easily hits it out of the park with unforgettable characters, insanely clever dialog, and rapid-fire and witty banter that draws you effortlessly through the story. A fast-paced intriguing plot and layers of devastating truths that are meticulously exposed create the heart-racing page turn that this author is so well known for.

Few authors I’ve read successfully create larger-than-life/realistic characters as well as Adrienne Giordano. Cruz (The Southern runs deep in this man) and Cilla capture your heart with their genuine and unique approach to building their enduring connection. The secondary cast of characters...each with their own distinctive persona...keep the story flowing and engaging.

One characteristic of Ms. Giordano’s writing that I find to be a ”class act” is that she chooses to use ingenious wording creatively, bringing refined imagery to life and getting a deeper emotional response than other authors who may use distasteful wording simply to elicit a shock factor response. She allows the reader to create the imagery themselves rather than having it forced upon them.

As I turned the last page of Cruz and Cilla’s story, I was already anticipating the next installment in the series...Ash’s story perhaps.

This ARC book was complimentary, and provided by the author. I am voluntarily submitting my honest review.

[Yvonne Cruz · Rating 5 out of 5]

We are back with the Blackwells and their family company. A company dedicated to recovering whatever needs to be recovered.
This time , the story belongs to Cruz Blackwell and defense attorney Priscilla/Cilla Randolph.
Cilla accidentally comes across a toxicology report for land her father plans to purchase and is more disturbed than ever when he seems unconcerned by the findings. This makes Cilla more perplexed and is determined to find out why her father is not worried. Why would he want the land that has toxins?
Needing help, Cilla turns to Cruz . Little does she know that he’s been intrigued by her for months and decides this is the perfect way to get close to her. What neither expected was the intense attraction . But things are going to get dangerous and their lives will be on the line as they dig deeper.
Will they live to tell the tale? If they do, will they realize they are meant to be together or will they go their separate ways and miss the chance to find their HEA?
This was another engaging, and entertaining addition to the series. Both main characters were well developed and likable.
If like me you’ve only read one or two other story in the series, rest assure this is a stand alone.
I was entrusted a copy of this book. The opinions expressed are solely my own.

[Maria · Rating 3 out of 5]

I honestly don’t know how I feel about Crash Course. I’ve been fortunate to receive several ARCs and have read numerous books written by or co-written by Adrienne Giordano. All of her books including this one are exceptionally well written, they draw the reader in and keep their attention throughout the story. The characters interact, their relationships (family, romantic, villainous etc.) bloom and evolve so naturally it’s hard to believe that they are made up and created specifically to entertain readers and their emotions are so relatable you can feel it. And maybe that’s where I’m having a hard to with my feelings towards. Normally I can imagine what the characters are going through and live it for those few hours while I read the book, but this time (without giving too much away) I can’t picture having such a villainous Dad. Without being able to connect on a deeper level to the characters and their plight, I just didn’t get the same effect that I normally do while reading one of Adrienne’s books. Now don’t get me wrong, Crash Course is an excellent story and I completely recommend reading it. Cilla and Cruz have a great story filled with adventure, laughter, heartache, suspense and a mystery that you don’t want to put the book down even after it’s finished.

[Kathy Wright · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book!!!

Priscilla (Cilla), a hotshot attorney, has stumbled upon a toxicology report on land her father wants to buy. She's given him advise for years on his business dealings, and when he brushes her off in regards to the report, she starts to question all she's known of her father and his business.

Cruz loves his work with BARS. He loves digging to find the answers. And the pretty attorney, Cilla, has a lot of questions. He will find the answers, even if it's ones she does not want. The more time he spends with her, the more appealing she becomes.

I love Cruz! He has an unfiltered mouth, and will say what he wants. The only problem is, he's feeling constrained to watch what he says due to the house filling up with women. The book starts at a low point for him. I loved reading how he pulled himself up to make himself a better person.

This story had quite a few moments in it that alternately broke my heart and made me mad. As a cancer survivor, I really felt the tug on the heart strings for what the little girl was going through. Then, there was the issues with why she had cancer.

This is my favorite book of the Blackwell's thus far. Course, I love them all!! Crash Course is #1 for me!

[Amy R · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic! I absolutely loved Crash Course by Adrienne Giordano. The Blackwells Series have been great and so far I think Cilla and Cruz are my favorite couple. I really enjoyed their maturity with not only how they handled their personal growth and development but also their relationship with each other. Cilla didn't have doubts about her feelings for Cruz or his feelings for her. I never had a moment where I was frustrated at the emotions of the characters. They both owned their own issues and it was wonderful to have a seat on the outside watching. They had such chemistry and just worked so well together.

The unique storyline was also fresh and exciting. Whenever an author causes me to go do some of my own research, I know I am invested. That was the case with Crash Course. I started thinking about the story when I wasn't reading it. I found myself researching the same things that Cilla, Cruz, and Rohan were researching (well not hacking any databases). Simply stated, if you are looking for an entertaining, smart, romantic suspense story, give Crash Course a try!

[Julia David · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was good to see Cruz get his HEA. He has no filter, and most people don't know what to think about him. Cilla comes along with her beauty and brains and knocks Cruz's socks off. She doesn't seem to mind his unfiltered comments either. Cilla has had no time to date and having a relationship with Cruz doesn't seem to be something she wants to do right now, but circumstances change. It seems that Fate is putting them together at the right time. Cilla's father expects her to drop everything to do things for him, but he will only do things for Cilla when it suits him. When she discovers that he is involved in some shady stuff, she has to make a decision about whether to go public with it or not. If she does, she will have to face his wrath, but she can't stand by and watch people get hurt to save his feelings. When bad things start happening, Cruz is right there with Cilla to help. Can they make a life together?

[Pamela Mitchell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow - what a thrilling read that immediately pulled me into all that was happening in Steel Ridge and kept me totally immersed and unable to put the book down until I read the last word. This book has stayed with me after I finished reading with unforgettable characters who had relatable emotions including heartache, betrayal, disgust, hope and romance. I loved the undeniable attraction, chemistry and repartee between hotshot defense attorney Cilla Randolph and hunky recovery agent Cruz Blackwell as they work together to expose a web of corruption and deceit. If you enjoy smartly written romantic suspense that will keep you on the edge of your seat, don't miss Crash Course by gifted author Adrienne Giordano. I received an advance reader copy of this book and liked it so much, I purchased a copy. This is my voluntary review.

[Robin Lee · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve loved all the books in this series, but they can all be read as stand-alones. Cruz Blackwell works as a recovery agent in his family business. While wrapping up a case, he meets attorney Priscilla Randolph. She has her own firm, but it’s located at her father’s company headquarters. Despite her reputation, she feels obligated to help her father in legal matters when he demands it. When she accidentally finds a suspicious confidential report, she feels obligated to investigate it in order to protect her father. While planning to keep this information to herself, Cilla finds it necessary to confide in Cruz and gain his help. The mystery and romance are excellent, but I found myself captivated by the subject of their investigation and how this could relate to almost everyone’s life. I recently saw something related to the subject and it really made me think beyond the story.

[NotTheTea · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5⭐



💋🚗I almost put the book down reading the way Cruz described women in their home.



💋🚗Why Blackwell family so Asian where no one dares to move out?



💋🚗Stargazing. Finally! Why no romance book include this? It's so lovely.




💋🚗Damn they're in a hospital having a shouting match while patient is trying hard to stop them 🙂 I think the scene is dragged enough, where's the security? Like your girl is having an aneurysm because of screaming her lungs out and you're still not calming down.....








Afterthought:- It's different. It has a strong, intelligent fmc who uses her head but not emotionless. She's just like that, keeping her emotions in check she's just not blinded by it and it was not described as a flaw. I loved it! Mmc kinda tweaked me in the beginning but he turned out ok. All the business and legal stuff went over my head but it's a solid overall.

[Randi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Crash Course had me from the first sentence! The Blackwell family is a favorite of mine, and Cruz’s story did not disappoint. Cilla accidentally sees a disturbing report related to her dad’s manufacturing company. She confronts her dad about the report, but he lies to her and dismisses her concerns. Cilla doesn’t know if her dad is being mislead by an executive at his company or if he is knowingly involved. In her quest to find answers, she hires Blackwell Asset Recovery Services to help her investigate. Adrienne Giordano is so talented at creating the right balance of romance and suspense. Crash Course has it all—action, danger, and passion. This is a great addition to the Blackwell series that I highly recommend.

[Kim · Rating 5 out of 5]

Crash Course was absolutely awesome. It had a great plot where I didn’t suspect how things were going to turn out. And when I was guessing at the twists and turns, it was often with a “NOOOOooo” in my head. Cruz and Cilla’s relationship was not a generic cat and mouse. Their chase was more like lions circling each other waiting to pounce. The book had some serious consequences and tough subjects. Some subjects even spurred dinner conversations. With everything going on in the book, it still was not too emotionally heavy. Once I started, I didn’t put the book down. This is a series and it was great to see the other characters in the book. However, the book can be enjoyed as a complete stand alone.

[Marissa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kindle Copy for Review

The Blackwell Security team returns for another high-flying adventure with a sprinkle of romance.
A hot shot defence attorney finds incriminating evidence about the land her father’s company is buying. She is confused at her father’s lack of concern when she mentions her findings.

She turns to Cruz Blackwell who is recovery agent to do some research. They will have people not wanting them to find the information they seek as their lives will be in peril.

Will sparks heat up as they get to know each other before their lives are snuff out? An addictive read that you will get caught up in.

[Karyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

In the fourth installment of Steele Ridge: The Blackwells Adrienne Giordano delivers once again. It has everything, romance, action, plot twists, and suspense. Cruz Blackwell recovery expert extraordinaire and Priscilla Randolph defense attorney have palpable sparks. When Cilla uncovers disturbing information about land her father’s company is buying, she turns to Cruz to help her discover the truth. In true Blackwell fashion on their road to discovery, danger lurks, and someone wants to prevent them from revealing what they find. This fast-paced story had me from start to finish. I couldn’t put it down. I was fortunate to receive this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.

[Bobbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have loved this series and these authors although I really think Adrienne Giordano is my favorite. That said, this was a great read. Cruz Blackwell is one of 5 boys who have gone into business together which was the family business. This is the 4th installment and I think my favorite so far. Cruz and Cilla were a fun couple who had a lot to deal with in this story. Both were strong individuals who were better together as a couple and I was glad they did. The cameo appearances of the rest of the immediate family and other Steel Ridge relatives made this a joy to read. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Alicia · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great addition to the Blackwell family stories. Loved Cruz's story. He's tough, aggressive, and has a whole lot of baggage, but underneath all that tough exterior is a teddy bear waiting to find his own HEA! Cilla has her own baggage, tough exterior, and a kick-ass career that keeps her driven with no time/desire for a personal life. When these 2 get together, you can just feel the heat through the pages the book! Hope Ash gets his own story next! Highly recommend this book, and reading these books in order is recommended but not necessary.

[Mary Lawson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Crash Course
STEELE RIDGE: THE BLACKWELLS
Adrienne Giordano

Lawyer Cilla Randal hires the Blackwells to recover a painting a gallery refuses to give back to her father. When she discovers a damaging toxicology report on land her dad intends to buy and her dad dismisses the report, she turns to Cruz Blackwell once again to help her find the truth. Little did they realize how dangerous it would become. An action packed story that grabs your attention from the beginning and doesn’t let go until the very end. Definitely a late night read.

[Gail Chianese · Rating 5 out of 5]

Unforgettable

A fast-paced suspense with rapid-fire, clever dialogue and characters that I instantly loved. Once I start a book in this series, I don’t want to put it down until I’m done and then I’m sad it’s over. I love a man who isn’t afraid to admit when he likes a woman…no games and that’s Cruz to a T, and Cilla is what most of dream of being: smart, dedicated, independent, compassionate, and tough when she needs to be, but really soft inside. They were the perfect couple. I loved watching them fall just as much as I loved the suspense.

[Linda Quick · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is fantastic!!! This is a quickly moving tale with an engaging story - along the lines of Erin Brockovich) and a sexy romance. I loved learning Cruz's story and how he and Cila came together. I made the mistake of starting this novel late in the day and stayed up way too late finishing it. It's that good that I couldn't put it down!

If you enjoy a sexy suspense, you will love this book. It's a must read for fans of the genre. The author is on my must read authors' list.

[Colleen C. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loved the Intrigue!
What a story! I love the Blackwells... it was great seeing this family again. Enjoyed every moment of it! The Intrigue, the danger, the passion, the personalities, the banter, the character depth and insight... Cruz and Cilla make an awesome pair! You can not go wrong with a Steele Ridge story! :)

[Dawn Cruikshank · Rating 5 out of 5]

Crash Course

Oh wow! Adrienne has done it again! This story is totally awesome! This story is about Cruz and Cilla. These two are made for each other. The villain in this story was really no surprise but it was heartbreaking for Cilla. The ending was totally intense and sad on so many levels. Gotta love happy endings. FANTASTIC job Adrienne! I would highly recommend this book!

[Pauline Frost · Rating 5 out of 5]

A well written perfectly paced story pulling you in from the start. A standalone read and book four in the series with plenty of action. Cruz is working through some personal problems and Cilla is making him see he has heart. The Blackwell family is close and there for each other even when they want space. Can't wait for the next book.

[Bree · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was looking forward to this pairing based on character introductions in the previous novels. So much opportunity for fun and feisty banter - missed unfortunately. The villain is indeed despicable and personal connections made this a truly interesting and surprising storyline with twists in events that seemed unlikely but commensurate with a narcissistic personality. Overall a good read.

[Rhonda Ziglar · Rating 5 out of 5]

This one kept me on the edge of my seat. Cilla and Cruz were so fun to watch in their story. It was suspenseful with lot of twists to keep you on your toes. As always this author delivers a page turning story.

[Amy Bearinger · Rating 2 out of 5]

I was really looking forward to this brother‘s story, and it started out good, but I just couldn’t get over how awful the female main character’s father was and how chill everybody was about it. I can usually suspend disbelief, but not this time.

[Tracy Hart · Rating 5 out of 5]

WOW, Just wow!

More action than you can imagine! Such a well written book! Adding to the Blackwell saga! You learn so much about the family dynamics in this one. And you fall in love with the other softer side of Cruz Blackwell.