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Riley Cruz #2
Brimstone Burglar
Turns out, the only difference between a felony and acquisitions is who’s bankrolling my heist.
I’m about to go from scrounging up enough tip money to make rent to pulling six figures. I’ll finally put those years stealing for my old alpha to good use. Only this time, I’ll be the one calling the shots. My crew. My way.
When a witch starts dabbling in forbidden magic, the Enclave sends me after the demon artifact fueling her power. The job should be simple, except they can’t point me to the culprit or tell me what I’m after.
To make matters worse, they’ve teamed me up with the alpha tracking the witch. Max Volkov was supposed to be my no-strings-attached one-night stand, not my partner. He likes making the rules almost as much as I like breaking them. To get this job done though, we’ll have to work together.
With vampires after my prize, an old enemy gunning for me, and someone trying to take out my crew, I need to find that artifact fast. Something tells me it’s going to take a lot more than a fancy new job title and the Enclave’s backing to keep us all alive.
Brimstone Burglar is the second book in the Riley Cruz series. If you like fun, fast-paced urban fantasy with quirky characters and a dose of slow-burn romance, this is the book for you.
I’m about to go from scrounging up enough tip money to make rent to pulling six figures. I’ll finally put those years stealing for my old alpha to good use. Only this time, I’ll be the one calling the shots. My crew. My way.
When a witch starts dabbling in forbidden magic, the Enclave sends me after the demon artifact fueling her power. The job should be simple, except they can’t point me to the culprit or tell me what I’m after.
To make matters worse, they’ve teamed me up with the alpha tracking the witch. Max Volkov was supposed to be my no-strings-attached one-night stand, not my partner. He likes making the rules almost as much as I like breaking them. To get this job done though, we’ll have to work together.
With vampires after my prize, an old enemy gunning for me, and someone trying to take out my crew, I need to find that artifact fast. Something tells me it’s going to take a lot more than a fancy new job title and the Enclave’s backing to keep us all alive.
Brimstone Burglar is the second book in the Riley Cruz series. If you like fun, fast-paced urban fantasy with quirky characters and a dose of slow-burn romance, this is the book for you.
260 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 29, 2024
256 people are currently reading
97 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews
January 24, 2025
Brimstone Burglar
By L.A. McBride
This was darn good. Lots of action, great plot, fantastic fantasy, shifters of various sorts, vampires, demons, and magic. Never a dull moment. Also, enough romance to be good but not slutty.
By L.A. McBride
This was darn good. Lots of action, great plot, fantastic fantasy, shifters of various sorts, vampires, demons, and magic. Never a dull moment. Also, enough romance to be good but not slutty.
March 1, 2024
I received an ARC and it was just so good I had to review right away! This book will be available 2/29/24.
Riley is back!! I love this series (and the original in this world, Kali James)! Riley is up to her hilarious goat-shifter ways in this new story. She finally has her first job from the Enclave tracking down a demon artifact and she’s trying to form the perfect team. Of course Dez is on board for all the tech stuff but convincing the human, former green beret Nash is trickier. And all her found family is back for more. I love the four elderly witches with attitude and that the tough alpha Volkov is just smitten with Riley! 🥰
Also, we are introduced to Garth the rooster. Maybe he’s just a rooster, but I have a feeling there’s more to his story. Just like we learn more about Riley’s past and her parents.
If you like a good heist with found family and multiple species working together, this is the series for you!!
Riley is back!! I love this series (and the original in this world, Kali James)! Riley is up to her hilarious goat-shifter ways in this new story. She finally has her first job from the Enclave tracking down a demon artifact and she’s trying to form the perfect team. Of course Dez is on board for all the tech stuff but convincing the human, former green beret Nash is trickier. And all her found family is back for more. I love the four elderly witches with attitude and that the tough alpha Volkov is just smitten with Riley! 🥰
Also, we are introduced to Garth the rooster. Maybe he’s just a rooster, but I have a feeling there’s more to his story. Just like we learn more about Riley’s past and her parents.
If you like a good heist with found family and multiple species working together, this is the series for you!!
February 25, 2024
I just finished this, and it was over way, way too soon. I love Riley and her friends, and they work well as a team…well, almost! LOL! We are introduced to a new character, Garth, and he pretty much stole the show at a couple of points. This is a well-written, action-filled, fun ride with poor Riley facing her past, almost losing someone, and on the hunt for a relic. She and her pals are shot at, given a puzzle to escape, and a few other hair-raising instances. I can’t wait to see what happens next when we are given the…well, read it and see! Highly recommend. I was provided a complimentary copy which I voluntarily reviewed.
February 28, 2024
Yes yes yes! Heists planned, scores settled, mysteries adding up -- this was such a fantastic next installment of my fave goat shifter's story! McBride has created such an amazing cast of characters with this bunch, and Riley is falling so well into her role as lead character. I'm already making grabby hands for book 3!
July 29, 2024
This book finds Riley no longer an unemployed goat shifter bartender to working for the Enclave (the supernatural governing body) as a hunter for demon relics.
When given a job she creates a crew to help her, vampire Des as tech support, ex green beret Nash as muscle and her witch friends as support. But the enclave has another idea adding Max Volkov as a partner.
Max and Riley have a romantic interest but she won’t go for his alpha bossiness.
There is a fair amount of action, the characters and their interactions are great.
For fun we have the rooster, Garth, that she gives to Nash for an emotional support animal. He isn’t impressed.
I love that Riley actually has a couple of emotional breakdowns allowing her to share her past with everyone especially Max.
This is a great urban fantasy with several types of shifters, vampires, witches and is an easy reading book. I’m looking forward to the next book which comes out in august.
When given a job she creates a crew to help her, vampire Des as tech support, ex green beret Nash as muscle and her witch friends as support. But the enclave has another idea adding Max Volkov as a partner.
Max and Riley have a romantic interest but she won’t go for his alpha bossiness.
There is a fair amount of action, the characters and their interactions are great.
For fun we have the rooster, Garth, that she gives to Nash for an emotional support animal. He isn’t impressed.
I love that Riley actually has a couple of emotional breakdowns allowing her to share her past with everyone especially Max.
This is a great urban fantasy with several types of shifters, vampires, witches and is an easy reading book. I’m looking forward to the next book which comes out in august.
December 19, 2024
I finished this and immediately dove into book 3 which I also finished the same day. I didn't stop to write my review. (Always a bad decision.)
So... since I don't want to give away anything about book 3, let me just say that this series keeps getting better and better.
If you enjoy urban fantasy, this series is a must!
So... since I don't want to give away anything about book 3, let me just say that this series keeps getting better and better.
If you enjoy urban fantasy, this series is a must!
December 24, 2024
NoHOLY MOLY did this installment give me all the damn feels, while that cliffhanger had my stomach dropping into the floor staring into space for a full five minutes after I finish the last page. Because of all the things I was imagining THAT last sentence was not one of them. Now one of the things I've come to adore about this author is her skill at deftly weaving side splitting humor with nail biting tension and in this book there was an abundance of both. I absolutely love everything about this series and my only regret is I haven't read these sooner (yep I'm still kicking myself).
So once again I'm swept away into the pandemonium that is Riley's world and hells yes am I here for that all the way....
With the Enclave now backing her heists, it doesn't take them long to give Riley her first job. Sending her and her crew after a witch dabbling in forbidden and dangerous magic, they want her to bring back the demon artifact fueling her power. The problem, they don't know what they are sending her after or even the identity of the witch in question. To make things worse, they decide to pair her up with the one person she doesn't want as a partner, the Alpha Max Volkov, who has never met a rule he didn't love. With an old enemy resurfacing, and someone looking to take out her crew, Riley's only hope is finding that artifact. And fast. Because it's going to take more than the Enclave's backing to keep them all alive.
Once again Riley has me in fits of giggles and in each book I read, I fall in love with her just that little bit more. When we first catch up with her, she's on a mission to recruit Nash Mitchell (who she had a run in with in the previous book) into her crew because she can see something in the guy that the others in her ragtag group cannot, and she will stop at nothing to get the man on board (with hilarious results). Of course on the other hand she's less than pleased when she's told that Max will be joining her on her first job. But as time goes on, with them working together and the stakes get higher, Riley finally starts to let him in (you can bet I was happy dancing at this)
because their chemistry is just off the charts. However, one thing I loved above all else for Riley in this book is she gets to face her demons (her ex Alpha Carl) although I won't give spoilers let's just say I was more than happy with the outcome.
Now as retentive as Max can be, he does have a soft squishy side too which we get to see in glimpes, his sharing of a painful memory made my heart ache for him but also made me see there's more to him than an Alpha a-hole, and if anyone can understand Riley it's him. Although they have vastly different upbringings I believe there's more to Max's story that's just as traumatic as hers. Max is also
slowly learning not to railroad Riley as the one time he did it didn't end well for him, because there's just no dignified way to dig your underwear out of your butt crack, but undignified or not I'm still swooning ❤️😂
Dez my nerdy techy vampire is just such a complete darling, there's nothing I don't like about him. From his snarky back and forth with Nash to his army of frogs, he is a character guaranteed to put a smile on my face every time. I adore him 🥰
And lastly if there's characters I love almost as much as Riley, it has to be her witches. These four women are utterly fantastic, with their oggling ways, glitter, ants in your pants bombs and wicked sense of humor. Oh yeah they can hold a grudge like no-one on earth and none of them are intimidated by Max. They are totally kick ass and you'd be a fool to mess with them (can they adopt me please).
Each book gets better and better and I can't wait to get to book 3 and see what shenanigans Riley and her crew get up to next. So if you love fiesty witches, unusual vampires and a goat shifter who will steal your heart, go read these today. Highly recommend 😁
So once again I'm swept away into the pandemonium that is Riley's world and hells yes am I here for that all the way....
With the Enclave now backing her heists, it doesn't take them long to give Riley her first job. Sending her and her crew after a witch dabbling in forbidden and dangerous magic, they want her to bring back the demon artifact fueling her power. The problem, they don't know what they are sending her after or even the identity of the witch in question. To make things worse, they decide to pair her up with the one person she doesn't want as a partner, the Alpha Max Volkov, who has never met a rule he didn't love. With an old enemy resurfacing, and someone looking to take out her crew, Riley's only hope is finding that artifact. And fast. Because it's going to take more than the Enclave's backing to keep them all alive.
Once again Riley has me in fits of giggles and in each book I read, I fall in love with her just that little bit more. When we first catch up with her, she's on a mission to recruit Nash Mitchell (who she had a run in with in the previous book) into her crew because she can see something in the guy that the others in her ragtag group cannot, and she will stop at nothing to get the man on board (with hilarious results). Of course on the other hand she's less than pleased when she's told that Max will be joining her on her first job. But as time goes on, with them working together and the stakes get higher, Riley finally starts to let him in (you can bet I was happy dancing at this)
because their chemistry is just off the charts. However, one thing I loved above all else for Riley in this book is she gets to face her demons (her ex Alpha Carl) although I won't give spoilers let's just say I was more than happy with the outcome.
Now as retentive as Max can be, he does have a soft squishy side too which we get to see in glimpes, his sharing of a painful memory made my heart ache for him but also made me see there's more to him than an Alpha a-hole, and if anyone can understand Riley it's him. Although they have vastly different upbringings I believe there's more to Max's story that's just as traumatic as hers. Max is also
slowly learning not to railroad Riley as the one time he did it didn't end well for him, because there's just no dignified way to dig your underwear out of your butt crack, but undignified or not I'm still swooning ❤️😂
Dez my nerdy techy vampire is just such a complete darling, there's nothing I don't like about him. From his snarky back and forth with Nash to his army of frogs, he is a character guaranteed to put a smile on my face every time. I adore him 🥰
And lastly if there's characters I love almost as much as Riley, it has to be her witches. These four women are utterly fantastic, with their oggling ways, glitter, ants in your pants bombs and wicked sense of humor. Oh yeah they can hold a grudge like no-one on earth and none of them are intimidated by Max. They are totally kick ass and you'd be a fool to mess with them (can they adopt me please).
Each book gets better and better and I can't wait to get to book 3 and see what shenanigans Riley and her crew get up to next. So if you love fiesty witches, unusual vampires and a goat shifter who will steal your heart, go read these today. Highly recommend 😁
April 16, 2024
t’s now been 10 years outside of Carl’s circle. Riley has really opened up to the people in her life and has started a new job… stealing magical and demonic artifacts for The Enclave, the worldwide governing body of the magical realm and users. It’s a cushy gig! She’s gotten to choose her own team, she only has to interact with one Enclave rep (a dude who puts the stealth in ninja), the pay is great, and she gets to do what she loves… pulling one over on the baddies of the world.
While Carl has come-a-calling in KCMO, Volkov, alpha of the KC shifters and head of the midwestern governing body was able to scare him off and Riley’s been doing pretty good. Now plans are in the works to see if she can finally forget about ol’ toxic-paws Carl. Now it’s time to get the team together for their first mission! It’s gonna be great, right? The team’s gonna gel together to rock-n-ROLL, right? Riiiiight… Dez and Nash can’t stop getting their hate on, Volkov keeps trying to *help* with things… Oh, and they’ve no clue what the artifact they’re after looks like. Oy!
It’s going to be great! It is! Nothing a little team-building and karaoke can’t fix, right? It’s gonna be fiiiiiiine. Waitaminit… where’d the rooster come from?!
“Brimstone Burglar” is the second novel to the new Riley Cruz spin-off series from the award-winning Kali James series by L. A. McBride. It lives in the same world as Kali James and features a new perspective on characters fans already know and love. The hits just keep on coming, and the humor is on point! The settings are rich, the characters dynamic, the action just keeps coming, the burn slow-and-steamy, and the book is unputdownable! I highly recommend this book and look forward to Riley’s continuing solo series!
I received a free copy of this e-book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
While Carl has come-a-calling in KCMO, Volkov, alpha of the KC shifters and head of the midwestern governing body was able to scare him off and Riley’s been doing pretty good. Now plans are in the works to see if she can finally forget about ol’ toxic-paws Carl. Now it’s time to get the team together for their first mission! It’s gonna be great, right? The team’s gonna gel together to rock-n-ROLL, right? Riiiiight… Dez and Nash can’t stop getting their hate on, Volkov keeps trying to *help* with things… Oh, and they’ve no clue what the artifact they’re after looks like. Oy!
It’s going to be great! It is! Nothing a little team-building and karaoke can’t fix, right? It’s gonna be fiiiiiiine. Waitaminit… where’d the rooster come from?!
“Brimstone Burglar” is the second novel to the new Riley Cruz spin-off series from the award-winning Kali James series by L. A. McBride. It lives in the same world as Kali James and features a new perspective on characters fans already know and love. The hits just keep on coming, and the humor is on point! The settings are rich, the characters dynamic, the action just keeps coming, the burn slow-and-steamy, and the book is unputdownable! I highly recommend this book and look forward to Riley’s continuing solo series!
I received a free copy of this e-book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 4, 2024
I've been waiting for this book to come out! I love Riley! It did NOT disappoint! What a wild ride!
As usual, our friendly neighborhood goat shifter is finding ways to get into trouble. She's working for the Enclave, so her thieving ways are now legit! She puts together her team, and other than her bestie Dev, the tech wizard vamp, the only other one she wants is a testy ex special forces human. And he's not her biggest fan.
She has to steal a dangerous demon artifact, only the Enclave won't tell her what it is or who has it. Meanwhile, Nash, her testy team member is Riley's latest project. She thinks giving him a job and a pet may help him heal from his PTSD. She might not know much about it, but she's as enthusiastic about that as her job! You gotta love her!
As usual, Riley's collection of misfits is joined together in her haphazard, dangerous adventures. We have Max, the uptight alpha who is in love with her, the hilarious collection of elderly witches who will ride and die with her, and her friends from the Kali James books (namely Kali and Craig).
We also finally get a resolution to the problems with her hated alpha that trained and tortured her as a kid. It was satisfying!
Riley will remain one of my favorite characters of all time, this book and series is a must read! Great UF, fabulous storylines, action, romance, adventure, and of course, a GOAT!
As usual, our friendly neighborhood goat shifter is finding ways to get into trouble. She's working for the Enclave, so her thieving ways are now legit! She puts together her team, and other than her bestie Dev, the tech wizard vamp, the only other one she wants is a testy ex special forces human. And he's not her biggest fan.
She has to steal a dangerous demon artifact, only the Enclave won't tell her what it is or who has it. Meanwhile, Nash, her testy team member is Riley's latest project. She thinks giving him a job and a pet may help him heal from his PTSD. She might not know much about it, but she's as enthusiastic about that as her job! You gotta love her!
As usual, Riley's collection of misfits is joined together in her haphazard, dangerous adventures. We have Max, the uptight alpha who is in love with her, the hilarious collection of elderly witches who will ride and die with her, and her friends from the Kali James books (namely Kali and Craig).
We also finally get a resolution to the problems with her hated alpha that trained and tortured her as a kid. It was satisfying!
Riley will remain one of my favorite characters of all time, this book and series is a must read! Great UF, fabulous storylines, action, romance, adventure, and of course, a GOAT!
April 2, 2024
Better…
Book 1 was good. This was better. I am a bit annoyed with myself that I didn’t realize this series is not yet completed. I try not to start a series that isn’t done, as I prefer to read them all straight through. When there are months (and sometimes more than a year!) between books, you forget too many little details and the overall read is just not as good. Anyway….
Riley shows some personal growth in this book. She’s still a bit childish for her background, but she’s getting there. She gets annoyed and hurt by others not believing in her, but she gives them no reason to, as she often acts irresponsibly. I would definitely like to see her grow up and truly come into her own: the potential is there.
Kali and Craig make appearances, but not much more than that. Riley is getting her own group together, and it’s fun to watch. The witches are just hilarious. Her relationship with Max moves along a bit, but I still have issues with it. It’s only in book 2 that Riley starts to grow up. It’s hard to see why Max would have had any interest in her prior to that happening. Feelings of responsibility, yes, but not more than that. Maybe somewhere along the line the author will give us a scene from his POV to explain that….
Now waiting for book 3. Not happy with myself for starting a series before it’s complete.
Book 1 was good. This was better. I am a bit annoyed with myself that I didn’t realize this series is not yet completed. I try not to start a series that isn’t done, as I prefer to read them all straight through. When there are months (and sometimes more than a year!) between books, you forget too many little details and the overall read is just not as good. Anyway….
Riley shows some personal growth in this book. She’s still a bit childish for her background, but she’s getting there. She gets annoyed and hurt by others not believing in her, but she gives them no reason to, as she often acts irresponsibly. I would definitely like to see her grow up and truly come into her own: the potential is there.
Kali and Craig make appearances, but not much more than that. Riley is getting her own group together, and it’s fun to watch. The witches are just hilarious. Her relationship with Max moves along a bit, but I still have issues with it. It’s only in book 2 that Riley starts to grow up. It’s hard to see why Max would have had any interest in her prior to that happening. Feelings of responsibility, yes, but not more than that. Maybe somewhere along the line the author will give us a scene from his POV to explain that….
Now waiting for book 3. Not happy with myself for starting a series before it’s complete.
September 14, 2025
I thoroughly enjoyed this next book in this series following the escapades of Riley Cruz, goat shifter.
Riley is no longer just a petty thief, but is now an artefact recollection expert! Yep a thief with a fancy title, but also with a huge pay check courtesy of the Enclave. Knowing about the skills she has honed over the years working for her ex alpha Carl, Riley is sent on a mission to retrieve another demon artefact, but no one seems to know what it is, what is looks like and who has it! Not an easy job at all, but luckily for Riley, she has a great team, even if Nash Mitchell, ex-green beret, is incredibly reluctant to join them all.
I loved how they all worked together, using their different skills and powers to track down this artefact and retrieve it. Friendships are definitely strengthening as is the heat and tension between Riley and Max Volkov, the local alpha werewolf!
But when Carl makes an appearance, Riley has to finally face up to her teenage fears - will she succumb to them or finally stand up to Carl and earn her freedom from his threats once and for all? I loved how Riley dealt with Carl - she showed that she was no longer that scared little girl locked up in the closet!
Jumping straight into the next book as I am loving this series so far!
Riley is no longer just a petty thief, but is now an artefact recollection expert! Yep a thief with a fancy title, but also with a huge pay check courtesy of the Enclave. Knowing about the skills she has honed over the years working for her ex alpha Carl, Riley is sent on a mission to retrieve another demon artefact, but no one seems to know what it is, what is looks like and who has it! Not an easy job at all, but luckily for Riley, she has a great team, even if Nash Mitchell, ex-green beret, is incredibly reluctant to join them all.
I loved how they all worked together, using their different skills and powers to track down this artefact and retrieve it. Friendships are definitely strengthening as is the heat and tension between Riley and Max Volkov, the local alpha werewolf!
But when Carl makes an appearance, Riley has to finally face up to her teenage fears - will she succumb to them or finally stand up to Carl and earn her freedom from his threats once and for all? I loved how Riley dealt with Carl - she showed that she was no longer that scared little girl locked up in the closet!
Jumping straight into the next book as I am loving this series so far!
October 23, 2024
Amazing audiobook, can't wait for the rest of the series. I want to go karaoke with Riley at Grinders.
I am absolutely loving this series. In this book there are heists, hijinks and humour. Riley is getting a crew together and I am here for it. The mix of humour and action is immaculate. There are also some emotionally vulnerable moments between the characters too, which really hit me right in the feels. The heist is on! But can it ever actually be that easy. No, no is the answer. No matter how good the crew you surround yourself with things can always take a turn. I loved diving more into the backstory of the characters in this one, I defo need to get into the prequel now. L.A. McBride has a wonderful writing style that transfers so well to the audio book format. Maria McCann really captures Riley and the crew's spirit in this recording. This was a really enjoyable listen, the pacing was just right. I am off to get the Kali James series now!!! See you on the other side.
I am absolutely loving this series. In this book there are heists, hijinks and humour. Riley is getting a crew together and I am here for it. The mix of humour and action is immaculate. There are also some emotionally vulnerable moments between the characters too, which really hit me right in the feels. The heist is on! But can it ever actually be that easy. No, no is the answer. No matter how good the crew you surround yourself with things can always take a turn. I loved diving more into the backstory of the characters in this one, I defo need to get into the prequel now. L.A. McBride has a wonderful writing style that transfers so well to the audio book format. Maria McCann really captures Riley and the crew's spirit in this recording. This was a really enjoyable listen, the pacing was just right. I am off to get the Kali James series now!!! See you on the other side.
February 28, 2024
I am lucky that I got to read an ARC copy of L.A. McBride's latest in the Riley Cruz series. We start off with Riley doing her best to put her rag tag team together while fending off the local shifter leader who seems to think of her as relationship material. God forbid! Her first job is from the council and its finding an artifact and could net her a big payday. Unfortunately things get out of hand quickly and she senses her old Pack leaders mischevious hand in the works. Or is it the quarry she is chasing? She rolls the dice to take back what she left but a trap is sprung and she needs all her strength to defeat her enemies, old and new. Riley is the goat shifter hero you never knew you needed. Ms. McBride hones her characters so cleverly that you feel like you know them all. Cant wait for more.
March 8, 2024
In “Brimstone Burglar,” Riley Cruz, goat shifter and thief extraordinaire, takes on a heist against powerful witches for the Enclave, which is the governing body for all supernaturals. Unlike previous heists, Riley puts together a crew for help. It’s a mixed bag of supernaturals and even a human. Riley dreams of a well-oiled crew that enjoys team building exercises. Instead she gets a group that can hardly stand one another. Putting her dauntless optimism to work, Riley powers on.
I enjoyed this book precisely for the variety of characters, all of whom are well rounded. I look forward to future books in which each will have a chance to grow. The heist and all the drama that is Riley’s life is interesting and well thought out. I am happy to give this book, which was provided to me for an honest review, five stars. I love Riley’s outlook on life and enjoy her escapades.
I enjoyed this book precisely for the variety of characters, all of whom are well rounded. I look forward to future books in which each will have a chance to grow. The heist and all the drama that is Riley’s life is interesting and well thought out. I am happy to give this book, which was provided to me for an honest review, five stars. I love Riley’s outlook on life and enjoy her escapades.
July 26, 2025
3 1/2 ⭐️
This book is a good lead from the first book. I really enjoyed the first book so was looking forward to this second book. Although the first book didn’t leave us with any cliffhangers this book sets up nicely for the rest of the series. Lots of questions left to be answered, particularly with Riley’s new gift.
The romance in this book was very minimal compared to the first and seemed very random in places. As much I enjoy her and max’s relationship I think that they needed more of a build up and felt a bit rushed after their one-night stand in the first book to kissing 3 times in this book and becoming “official” - although I’m a bit confused if they’re actually together or not??
I think this book is well written and would recommend if you are looking to get into a light hearted series with minimal romance and a easy plot.
This book is a good lead from the first book. I really enjoyed the first book so was looking forward to this second book. Although the first book didn’t leave us with any cliffhangers this book sets up nicely for the rest of the series. Lots of questions left to be answered, particularly with Riley’s new gift.
The romance in this book was very minimal compared to the first and seemed very random in places. As much I enjoy her and max’s relationship I think that they needed more of a build up and felt a bit rushed after their one-night stand in the first book to kissing 3 times in this book and becoming “official” - although I’m a bit confused if they’re actually together or not??
I think this book is well written and would recommend if you are looking to get into a light hearted series with minimal romance and a easy plot.
March 5, 2024
Riley’s life is finally looking up, now that the Enclave has hired her as an official demon relic hunter, at the agreed-on rate of $100,000 per relic. Now her biggest struggle is to gather a team to aid her recovery efforts. This book is the second Riley Cruz outing, and while I enjoyed the first one, the second one is head and shoulders better. This story is filled with daring heists, close calls, satisfying revenge, good friends and found family, and the continued slow burn romance with Volkov. The pacing of the book is excellent; and, as secrets are revealed and trust is established, the characters become more substantial and well-developed. This is a terrific outing, that leaves me wanting more!
September 7, 2024
a solid sequel and it picks up exactly where we left off with the first book. everything i liked about the previous book continues here and i like that riley and max's romance is slowly coming together but it's also not the main focus of the book. i like riley's ragtag group: dez is so precious, nash is such a reluctant hero (?), the grandma witches are insane/funny, etc. i also like that we get to see more of riley's past though sometimes i believe her thieving skills are too op but whatever, i can overlook that.
i admire how much riley cares for the people around her even though she does make many impulsive decisions. and i love that max is really playing the long game with riley and how much he cares for her in his gruff yet tender way. fun read!
i admire how much riley cares for the people around her even though she does make many impulsive decisions. and i love that max is really playing the long game with riley and how much he cares for her in his gruff yet tender way. fun read!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 28, 2024
I love Riley so much, she is eternally optimistic and has such cool abilities. In this latest adventure she is tasked with recovering a unknown demon artifact. Now she has the backing of the Enclave she needs to get a team together, track down some tenuous leads and outwit a few dangerous characters. None of those are easy tasks but some are more difficult than others.
I love the interactions between Riley and Volkov, they have such great chemistry together and you can see it in every conversation! I am so looking forward to watching their relationship develop through this series but that bombshell at the end of this book is going to be the on ongoing mystery, I think.
I love the interactions between Riley and Volkov, they have such great chemistry together and you can see it in every conversation! I am so looking forward to watching their relationship develop through this series but that bombshell at the end of this book is going to be the on ongoing mystery, I think.
March 1, 2024
The GOAT
Absolutely wonderful addition to Riley. The goat shifter with an attitude! She's built her artifact hunting team....sort of.....and is ready for action.
Hunting a demon artifact is rough normally, but when you're up against unknown and known assailants, it's definitely a task of epic proportions.
Add in a rooster, four witches of advanced age, an ex military human, a vamp who gets queasy at blood, and an overbearing wolf alpha, and you've got....something.
Will the team mesh? Will Riley find answers? Oh yes, but nothing is as you suspect.
Definitely give this a read, it's action packed with loads of laughs.
Absolutely wonderful addition to Riley. The goat shifter with an attitude! She's built her artifact hunting team....sort of.....and is ready for action.
Hunting a demon artifact is rough normally, but when you're up against unknown and known assailants, it's definitely a task of epic proportions.
Add in a rooster, four witches of advanced age, an ex military human, a vamp who gets queasy at blood, and an overbearing wolf alpha, and you've got....something.
Will the team mesh? Will Riley find answers? Oh yes, but nothing is as you suspect.
Definitely give this a read, it's action packed with loads of laughs.
March 4, 2024
Magically Charged & G.O.A.T.
Brimstone Burglar is a book that's brimming with heart-stealing characters and solid, stealthy heists more entertaining than Bluhdy Marys on karaoke night.
I started this series for Riley, but I'm staying on this roller coaster for Nash. Not only am I calling dibs on this book boyfriend, butchu better back away from the hawty slowly, hands where I can see them, so I won't need to bring out the glitter balls.
*Wink*
When you read it for yourself, you'll see that as the extreme wahrning it is.
*Smirk*
The next relic hunt can't be assigned soon enough, Sato! Snap to it.
Brimstone Burglar is a book that's brimming with heart-stealing characters and solid, stealthy heists more entertaining than Bluhdy Marys on karaoke night.
I started this series for Riley, but I'm staying on this roller coaster for Nash. Not only am I calling dibs on this book boyfriend, butchu better back away from the hawty slowly, hands where I can see them, so I won't need to bring out the glitter balls.
*Wink*
When you read it for yourself, you'll see that as the extreme wahrning it is.
*Smirk*
The next relic hunt can't be assigned soon enough, Sato! Snap to it.
September 10, 2024
Riley and her crew have their first official job - to find a demon artifact - only they don't know where it is, or even what it is. When their only lead gets them deeper into trouble, more than one life is put at risk.
I just love Riley. She's quirky, opinionated, stubborn and independent, yet she would do anything for her friends, and they reciprocate with their own particular skillset. Fabulous disguises? Glitter bombs? Army of frogs? They have you covered.
The heists (there are a few) are superbly creative with liberal use of tech as well as magic. The writing is snappy and the plot is perfectly paced. Such fun.
I just love Riley. She's quirky, opinionated, stubborn and independent, yet she would do anything for her friends, and they reciprocate with their own particular skillset. Fabulous disguises? Glitter bombs? Army of frogs? They have you covered.
The heists (there are a few) are superbly creative with liberal use of tech as well as magic. The writing is snappy and the plot is perfectly paced. Such fun.
September 21, 2024
I heart Riley
How can you not love a snarky goat-shifting cat burglar with a penchant for chewing gum and giving spontaneous hugs? In this latest installment of Riley’s story, we get to see how she goes from solopreneur to team captain. Not gonna lie — it’s a little rocky. But nothing that a few well-placed molotov cocktails and magical glitter bombs can’t fix.
More importantly, her new team has to learn how to work with each other. That’s gonna take a little more work… But they all share the same love for our pink-haired irrepressible optimist, so there’s hope. And I have a feeling that her newest team member, Garth, is more than he appears to be. Fingers crossed!
How can you not love a snarky goat-shifting cat burglar with a penchant for chewing gum and giving spontaneous hugs? In this latest installment of Riley’s story, we get to see how she goes from solopreneur to team captain. Not gonna lie — it’s a little rocky. But nothing that a few well-placed molotov cocktails and magical glitter bombs can’t fix.
More importantly, her new team has to learn how to work with each other. That’s gonna take a little more work… But they all share the same love for our pink-haired irrepressible optimist, so there’s hope. And I have a feeling that her newest team member, Garth, is more than he appears to be. Fingers crossed!
September 25, 2024
What a great new installment to this series! Riley, the MC, is so likable and I love how much confidence she has, yet it isn't blatant. I have enjoyed seeing her relationships grow with Max and Nash and also being able to get to know her witch friends too! Riley's love for her "found" family is wonderful and she has clearly grown and matured even more in this book, allowing herself to be vulnerable some too. My new favorite character has to be Garth the rooster! I hope we find out next book that he is a shifter or something like that because I would love to know what he thinks about this ragtag crew!
February 28, 2024
Riley is one of my all time favourite book characters. Her goat shifting antics are always hilarious, Volkov is shown Rileys vulnerable side and it give you a heartwarming feeling with how he just cares for her. I love that he doesn't try and fix things for her but he's by her side whilst she gets that done by herself! This book is jam packed action and my favourite line is "There really was no dignified way to pull underwear out of your butt crack." That part of the book had me in stitches! Can't wait for the next one in the series!
March 1, 2024
This is an amazing adventure from start to finish, Riley is a force to be reckoned with, Volkov always has her back. Riley puts together an unusual team that works perfectly for this story. Havoc is the word of the day, and it is a blast to read, just fantastic! I am excited to see where this series goes, I am hoping for a love connection for Riley. Great Paranormal Urban Fantasy Story!!! I Loved It!!!
I received an ARC and I am Leaving this Totally Honest Review Because I Choose To and Think the story is AMAZING!!!
I received an ARC and I am Leaving this Totally Honest Review Because I Choose To and Think the story is AMAZING!!!
March 3, 2024
Riley is paid to retrieve demon artifacts. With her bright pink hair, sassy attitude and being a goat shifter, she has put together a misfit team with Dez (a vampire) for tech support and Nash (a human) for muscle. I love the hot but subtle thing she has going on with Max Volkov, the Alpha Werewolf. It's another dangerous mission with action, snark and flirtation making adventure, humor and witchcraft abound. I love Riley's escapades and her search for her parentage. I received a copy of this book and this is my voluntary opinion.
December 31, 2025
Second in the Riley Criz series, this one sees Riley take on her first job stealing back demon artifacts for the supernatural governing body the 'Enclave'. Riley has her hands full, not just tracking down the artefact but convincing her chosen team they all want the job (ex Green-beret and Human Nathan is reluctant) and can work together vampire Dez is still holding a grudge from when Nathan was working against them last book and hit him. But they don't stand a chance in the face of Riley's determination, enthusiasm and team building karaoke.
February 28, 2024
A good dose Riley is always a hoot. But add in a vampire, a human, an alpha wolf, and a rooster? You're in for an absolute delight. Of course our stitch witches also make an appearance.
This book is non-stop from beginning to end. Riley is charismatic, funny, and resilient. Max is still overprotective but is learning to trust Riley can take care of herself. Not only are they on a Relic hunt, but Riley's past is also coming for her
This book is non-stop from beginning to end. Riley is charismatic, funny, and resilient. Max is still overprotective but is learning to trust Riley can take care of herself. Not only are they on a Relic hunt, but Riley's past is also coming for her
February 28, 2024
Riley is now working for the Enclave hunting down demon artifacts. Trying to build her team whilst working on their first job.
Riley had got some baggage but she’s very enthusiastic about her new job. There’s plenty of humour including the start of the book where she is covered in synthetic deer urine in an attempt to endear herself to a prospective team member. The story moves along easily. A really enjoyable read.
Riley had got some baggage but she’s very enthusiastic about her new job. There’s plenty of humour including the start of the book where she is covered in synthetic deer urine in an attempt to endear herself to a prospective team member. The story moves along easily. A really enjoyable read.
February 29, 2024
Riley is my favourite character in the author’s universe. She’s smart, independent, sassy and snarky. She likes to go after her problems head on and that makes for great stories. She has depth of character and you’ll cheer for her and empathize with her as she moves through the story.
Riley is building a team that needs work to get them to play nice. This was a fun read and moves at a good pace. Oh, there’s a rooster (no spoilers, read the story to find out more).
Riley is building a team that needs work to get them to play nice. This was a fun read and moves at a good pace. Oh, there’s a rooster (no spoilers, read the story to find out more).
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