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Ravenpeak Bay #3
Beneath These Dark Skies
Vanessa
I was never supposed to fall in love with him.
We were only supposed to be a quick Spring fling, he was leaving and I was going to college.
It was for the best, with his secrets and his darkness, the two of us were never meant to last.
A year later, a chance encounter brought us back together.
It was one night, one night to say goodbye.
The following day he left and he took everything with him, including my heart. What I hadn’t realized at the time was that he left a little piece of him behind with me.
Now three years later I have a beautiful son.
I never expected to see him again.
Until he shows up with his brothers, and the secret I’ve been keeping is finally revealed.
I thought I had moved on, fixed my broken heart and was ready to continue with my life.
But the moment I lay eyes on Kolten, I realize I never did get my heart back, and despite the history between us and all the broken pieces at our feet, I was willing to try again.
Even if another heart break at the hand of this man would likely be my ruin.
Kolten
She thinks it was easy for me.
To leave her behind and not come back for her.
But I did it for a reason, I was darkness, she was light, and I couldn’t drag her down with me.
It was beneath these dark skies five years ago when I fell in love for the first and last time, and Vanessa Hale still owns my heart, even after all these years apart.
But now I’m back, and the woman I love is now the mother to a child I did not know I had.
I was finally free from my past, and this was my end game.
But the tricky thing about history is that it has a tendency to repeat itself.
I was never supposed to fall in love with him.
We were only supposed to be a quick Spring fling, he was leaving and I was going to college.
It was for the best, with his secrets and his darkness, the two of us were never meant to last.
A year later, a chance encounter brought us back together.
It was one night, one night to say goodbye.
The following day he left and he took everything with him, including my heart. What I hadn’t realized at the time was that he left a little piece of him behind with me.
Now three years later I have a beautiful son.
I never expected to see him again.
Until he shows up with his brothers, and the secret I’ve been keeping is finally revealed.
I thought I had moved on, fixed my broken heart and was ready to continue with my life.
But the moment I lay eyes on Kolten, I realize I never did get my heart back, and despite the history between us and all the broken pieces at our feet, I was willing to try again.
Even if another heart break at the hand of this man would likely be my ruin.
Kolten
She thinks it was easy for me.
To leave her behind and not come back for her.
But I did it for a reason, I was darkness, she was light, and I couldn’t drag her down with me.
It was beneath these dark skies five years ago when I fell in love for the first and last time, and Vanessa Hale still owns my heart, even after all these years apart.
But now I’m back, and the woman I love is now the mother to a child I did not know I had.
I was finally free from my past, and this was my end game.
But the tricky thing about history is that it has a tendency to repeat itself.
472 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 22, 2024
145 people are currently reading
1444 people want to read
About the author
Ria Wilde
19 books1,181 followersWhere Light & Dark Collide
Ria Wilde is an international bestselling author. You can expect heat, heart & heas! She currently resides in the UK where getting lost in her books, and plotting the next best way to break some hearts is a daily occurrence.
A lover of all things steamy and sinful, she also has a big soft spot for small town romances & cowboys, but morally gray will forever be her favorite color!
HEA's & Spice, but there's no promise it'll be an easy ride, and be prepared to fall in love with her morally gray men and the sassy queens that steal their hearts.
Instagram: @authorriawilde
Facebook: @riawilderauthor
Tiktok: @.authorriawilde
Ria Wilde is an international bestselling author. You can expect heat, heart & heas! She currently resides in the UK where getting lost in her books, and plotting the next best way to break some hearts is a daily occurrence.
A lover of all things steamy and sinful, she also has a big soft spot for small town romances & cowboys, but morally gray will forever be her favorite color!
HEA's & Spice, but there's no promise it'll be an easy ride, and be prepared to fall in love with her morally gray men and the sassy queens that steal their hearts.
Instagram: @authorriawilde
Facebook: @riawilderauthor
Tiktok: @.authorriawilde
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 108 reviews
May 15, 2024
4.5 ⭐ (Long review)
The angst, my gaaawd, I wasn't ready for any of that, but I'm not complaining, and I'm here for all of it. 🥹
Despite all the personal issues that I'm going to list below, this story was really, really enjoyable for me. It made me laugh, giggle, swoon, and cry, but most of all, it warmed my heart when Kolten and Vanessa found their way back to each other. ❤️
============================
Summary (of the first 60% 😂):
Kolten (37) and Vanessa/Ness (26) met five years ago when Kolt visited the small town where his brother, Torin, was living (H of Book 1). His brother had lost his wife and son, and Ness was a friend of the late wife. It was an instant attraction for the both of them, and they continued to meet secretly for the next two weeks (???) It was purely platonic at first, then some kissing was added.
She's heading off to college, and he's leaving, so they both knew that what they had was only temporary. But I suppose, it was inevitable since they fell in love despite knowing their circumstances.
However, before they knew it, reality came crashing in. See, Kolt and his two brothers were part of an organization; I think the three of them were assassins. Torin left after his family died, with no plans to return. It turns out that the only way to get out of this organization is through death. The messengers of that reminder came to town, and Kolt saw them and knew right then they were coming for his brother.
Being the eldest, he offered to take Torin's place in order to protect his family and Vanessa, and this is the first time he left her. He told her he was going to leave, and on the actual day, he went away without saying goodbye. But Ness saw him leave as she was waiting on their dock. 😩
Eighteen months passed, and Kolt resorted to occasionally stalking Ness. 😂 She's at the university at this point. One night she was almost sexually assaulted, but Kolt came to her rescue and beat up the jerk. He drove her home but left right away, as he knew it wasn't safe for her to be seen with him. But that same night, Ness texted him and told him how much she missed him, and that there had been no one since him. He drove back to her apartment, and they slept together for the first time (gave her V-card to him)
But after this, Kolt realized that Ness is the drug he needs to quit, and he can't keep putting her in danger. So for the second time, he left her without a word, and he officially cut ties with her and his brothers.
Then, after a month, Ness found out she's pregnant, and she called and texted Kolt's number to inform him, but it's no longer in use.
Three years have passed; it has been a year since she moved back in their small town. She dropped out of college because she couldn't raise her kid alone and study at the same time. Tbf, she tried, but she just can't do it anymore on her own.
Around this time, Kolt has successfully paid his obligations to the organization, and he's now finally free and out of it. He vowed to come back to Ness and try to pick up where they left off.
When he was finally back into the town, she saw him first and decided to run back to her house, as she wasn't ready to face him and was confused about why he was there in the first place.
Kolt came to Ness' house, and he heard her son's cry. He thought she had finally moved on and was hurt by that idea. Because he never did, and he knew she's it for him the first time he saw her. Thankfully, Ness didn't hide the fact that Ethan is their son. She encouraged Kolt to form a relationship with him, and as for them she said that nothing would ever happen again between them. She was hellbent on setting boundaries because she was still hurt by his leaving and wasn't sure if he would stay.
It was at this point that Kolt began to make an effort to gain Ness's forgiveness and trust.
============================
Thoughts:
While I did truly enjoy this, I didn't like the fact that they met again at the 62% mark and that they only agreed to give their relationship another chance at the 70% mark. Idk, but I feel like the remaining 30% of the story is quite short to fix and pick up the pieces that were broken when Kolt left Ness.
Which kind of somewhat happened here. After a week of creating a new routine with their son, they just fall back into bed without even discussing the past, present, and possible future for the three of them.
Ness doesn't fully trust Kolt at this point, but since she's led by her hormones, she doesn't care about their situation or what this means for their son. Kolt, on the other hand, wanted to take things slow and talk about what happened to them, but he's too weak to say no to Ness, hence giving her what she wants all the time.
Then, when they finally had the "talk", it was freaking off page. I would've wanted to read and see their conversation and to know what was involved in this heart-to-heart talk. 🥲
You think that with all the missed chances that they had and the things they never got to say in the past, Ness would grow to learn how to communicate like an adult. But nope, she still couldn't, for the life of her, know how to express her worries and hesitation with their current setup.
Even at the 85% mark, she still doesn't believe Kolt would stay, and honestly, I couldn't blame her, but it doesn't mean she can be impulsive with her decisions because there's a kid involved in the situation.
Everything has been going so well, and she kept waiting for the other shoe to drop. Since nothing bad is coming along, she overthinks and, just like that, asks for space. Maybe she really needed that time, idk, 🤷♀️ but she could've communicated her concerns with Kolt and talked about it like a real couple. I think five years is more than enough to be separated, no? Why does she need more space? 😩
Then we had the conflict. Kolt knew about Ness' issues about abandonment, but this guy still left without a word again, for the third time, mind you, because "he was giving her space". And I was like, dude, you can still give her the space, but holy freaking cow, at least tell her that you're going into town and will be back within a few hours. It's not that hard to do, just saying. Kinda annoying that it really became second nature for him to simply leave without saying anything. 🤦♀️
Anyhoo, at least something positive came out of this, and they both realized how much they love one another and that losing each other is something they can't imagine in their lives. I'm glad they finally worked things out and found their HEA. 😭❤️🥹
Overall, please don't let my personal issues derail you from reading this, because I think it was actually good. Second-chance romances aren't usually my thing, but I'm happy that I gave this a shot. I hope this works for other readers as well. 🤞
Book info:
- Second chance
- Surprise baby
- Age gap (11)
- Attempted sexual assault
- Violence (a bit)
- Boat accident
- No cheating, opd
- V h, No info on H (but not getting any hoe vibe)
- Celibate (see note)
- HEA (1 yr later, married and pregnant again)
Note:
- There were two separations here, 18 months after they met, and then 3 years again. Kolt said there has been no one since they slept together, this is for the three year separation. But there was no confirmation if there had been anyone in the first separation. Still, reading between the lines, I got the impression that he's celibate too, and this is what he said: “I never found anyone who could compare. I never even looked” Sooo, I guess, do what you want with that. 🫣
The angst, my gaaawd, I wasn't ready for any of that, but I'm not complaining, and I'm here for all of it. 🥹
Despite all the personal issues that I'm going to list below, this story was really, really enjoyable for me. It made me laugh, giggle, swoon, and cry, but most of all, it warmed my heart when Kolten and Vanessa found their way back to each other. ❤️
============================
Summary (of the first 60% 😂):
Kolten (37) and Vanessa/Ness (26) met five years ago when Kolt visited the small town where his brother, Torin, was living (H of Book 1). His brother had lost his wife and son, and Ness was a friend of the late wife. It was an instant attraction for the both of them, and they continued to meet secretly for the next two weeks (???) It was purely platonic at first, then some kissing was added.
She's heading off to college, and he's leaving, so they both knew that what they had was only temporary. But I suppose, it was inevitable since they fell in love despite knowing their circumstances.
However, before they knew it, reality came crashing in. See, Kolt and his two brothers were part of an organization; I think the three of them were assassins. Torin left after his family died, with no plans to return. It turns out that the only way to get out of this organization is through death. The messengers of that reminder came to town, and Kolt saw them and knew right then they were coming for his brother.
Being the eldest, he offered to take Torin's place in order to protect his family and Vanessa, and this is the first time he left her. He told her he was going to leave, and on the actual day, he went away without saying goodbye. But Ness saw him leave as she was waiting on their dock. 😩
Eighteen months passed, and Kolt resorted to occasionally stalking Ness. 😂 She's at the university at this point. One night she was almost sexually assaulted, but Kolt came to her rescue and beat up the jerk. He drove her home but left right away, as he knew it wasn't safe for her to be seen with him. But that same night, Ness texted him and told him how much she missed him, and that there had been no one since him. He drove back to her apartment, and they slept together for the first time (gave her V-card to him)
But after this, Kolt realized that Ness is the drug he needs to quit, and he can't keep putting her in danger. So for the second time, he left her without a word, and he officially cut ties with her and his brothers.
Then, after a month, Ness found out she's pregnant, and she called and texted Kolt's number to inform him, but it's no longer in use.
Three years have passed; it has been a year since she moved back in their small town. She dropped out of college because she couldn't raise her kid alone and study at the same time. Tbf, she tried, but she just can't do it anymore on her own.
Around this time, Kolt has successfully paid his obligations to the organization, and he's now finally free and out of it. He vowed to come back to Ness and try to pick up where they left off.
When he was finally back into the town, she saw him first and decided to run back to her house, as she wasn't ready to face him and was confused about why he was there in the first place.
Kolt came to Ness' house, and he heard her son's cry. He thought she had finally moved on and was hurt by that idea. Because he never did, and he knew she's it for him the first time he saw her. Thankfully, Ness didn't hide the fact that Ethan is their son. She encouraged Kolt to form a relationship with him, and as for them she said that nothing would ever happen again between them. She was hellbent on setting boundaries because she was still hurt by his leaving and wasn't sure if he would stay.
It was at this point that Kolt began to make an effort to gain Ness's forgiveness and trust.
============================
Thoughts:
While I did truly enjoy this, I didn't like the fact that they met again at the 62% mark and that they only agreed to give their relationship another chance at the 70% mark. Idk, but I feel like the remaining 30% of the story is quite short to fix and pick up the pieces that were broken when Kolt left Ness.
Which kind of somewhat happened here. After a week of creating a new routine with their son, they just fall back into bed without even discussing the past, present, and possible future for the three of them.
Ness doesn't fully trust Kolt at this point, but since she's led by her hormones, she doesn't care about their situation or what this means for their son. Kolt, on the other hand, wanted to take things slow and talk about what happened to them, but he's too weak to say no to Ness, hence giving her what she wants all the time.
Then, when they finally had the "talk", it was freaking off page. I would've wanted to read and see their conversation and to know what was involved in this heart-to-heart talk. 🥲
You think that with all the missed chances that they had and the things they never got to say in the past, Ness would grow to learn how to communicate like an adult. But nope, she still couldn't, for the life of her, know how to express her worries and hesitation with their current setup.
Even at the 85% mark, she still doesn't believe Kolt would stay, and honestly, I couldn't blame her, but it doesn't mean she can be impulsive with her decisions because there's a kid involved in the situation.
Everything has been going so well, and she kept waiting for the other shoe to drop. Since nothing bad is coming along, she overthinks and, just like that, asks for space. Maybe she really needed that time, idk, 🤷♀️ but she could've communicated her concerns with Kolt and talked about it like a real couple. I think five years is more than enough to be separated, no? Why does she need more space? 😩
Then we had the conflict. Kolt knew about Ness' issues about abandonment, but this guy still left without a word again, for the third time, mind you, because "he was giving her space". And I was like, dude, you can still give her the space, but holy freaking cow, at least tell her that you're going into town and will be back within a few hours. It's not that hard to do, just saying. Kinda annoying that it really became second nature for him to simply leave without saying anything. 🤦♀️
Anyhoo, at least something positive came out of this, and they both realized how much they love one another and that losing each other is something they can't imagine in their lives. I'm glad they finally worked things out and found their HEA. 😭❤️🥹
Overall, please don't let my personal issues derail you from reading this, because I think it was actually good. Second-chance romances aren't usually my thing, but I'm happy that I gave this a shot. I hope this works for other readers as well. 🤞
Book info:
- Second chance
- Surprise baby
- Age gap (11)
- Attempted sexual assault
- Violence (a bit)
- Boat accident
- No cheating, opd
- V h, No info on H (but not getting any hoe vibe)
- Celibate (see note)
- HEA (1 yr later, married and pregnant again)
Note:
- There were two separations here, 18 months after they met, and then 3 years again. Kolt said there has been no one since they slept together, this is for the three year separation. But there was no confirmation if there had been anyone in the first separation. Still, reading between the lines, I got the impression that he's celibate too, and this is what he said: “I never found anyone who could compare. I never even looked” Sooo, I guess, do what you want with that. 🫣
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 3, 2025
She is my moon. My stars. My Forever. For as long as the night lives and the moon shines, I am hers.
Vanessa is 21 and about to head off to college soon and move away from Ravenpeak Bay. But before she leaves, a mysterious Avery brother named Kolton returns to town. He found me sitting on the dock late at night looking out to the sea. It was only meant to be a fling. We were never meant to last. After we both left without goodbyes, a year later at college a chance encounter gave us one final moment together to lay our hearts to rest. Now 26, Vanessa has moved back to Ravenpeak Bay with a secret and a man who haunts her thoughts that she would never see again. But what happens when he shows up again after all this time?
I love this series so much. Ria doesn’t miss. I read this in 5 hours. I devoured Kolton and Vanessa’s story. Kolton was mysterious in the first two books but I appreciated why he did what he did for his family and we got the answers to understand him. Honestly, it was right person wrong time vibes. Vanessa is a strong woman and caring for her little boy was beautiful. The documented box of memories given to Kolton made my heart melt, but I was sad for him as all that precious time was lost. It’s a beautiful story. Out of the three books in the series, this is my favourite, followed by Torin’s and then Rhett's story.
Excited to read Ria’s spin-off soon called Playing With Fire with some other characters in this series.
If you love:
🔹Small Town
🔹Friends To Lovers
🔹Age Gap
🔹Mutual Pining
🔹Secret Baby
🔹Intimate Spice
Genre/Type: Dark Adult Romance 18+
APK: Physical
Pages: 469
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Spice: 🌶️🌶️.5
Series or Stand Alone: Book Three In The Ravenpeak Bay Series
Tropes or Themes: Small Town, Age Gap (11yrs), Friends To Lovers, Mutual Pining, Secret Baby, He Falls First, Past and Present, Protective and Possessive MMC, Chemistry, It’s Always Been You, Touch Her And Die Vibes, Violence, Murder, Death, SA Attempt, Vomiting, Sexual Content, Crawling, Dirty Talk, Virgin and Aftercare.
Check Triggers ⚠️ 💫
All Round Romance Reader
Sienasummerrreads 💕📚
TikTok | Instagram | Goodreads | StoryGraph | Everand | Amazon | Audible Reviews 💫
Vanessa is 21 and about to head off to college soon and move away from Ravenpeak Bay. But before she leaves, a mysterious Avery brother named Kolton returns to town. He found me sitting on the dock late at night looking out to the sea. It was only meant to be a fling. We were never meant to last. After we both left without goodbyes, a year later at college a chance encounter gave us one final moment together to lay our hearts to rest. Now 26, Vanessa has moved back to Ravenpeak Bay with a secret and a man who haunts her thoughts that she would never see again. But what happens when he shows up again after all this time?
I love this series so much. Ria doesn’t miss. I read this in 5 hours. I devoured Kolton and Vanessa’s story. Kolton was mysterious in the first two books but I appreciated why he did what he did for his family and we got the answers to understand him. Honestly, it was right person wrong time vibes. Vanessa is a strong woman and caring for her little boy was beautiful. The documented box of memories given to Kolton made my heart melt, but I was sad for him as all that precious time was lost. It’s a beautiful story. Out of the three books in the series, this is my favourite, followed by Torin’s and then Rhett's story.
Excited to read Ria’s spin-off soon called Playing With Fire with some other characters in this series.
If you love:
🔹Small Town
🔹Friends To Lovers
🔹Age Gap
🔹Mutual Pining
🔹Secret Baby
🔹Intimate Spice
Genre/Type: Dark Adult Romance 18+
APK: Physical
Pages: 469
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Spice: 🌶️🌶️.5
Series or Stand Alone: Book Three In The Ravenpeak Bay Series
Tropes or Themes: Small Town, Age Gap (11yrs), Friends To Lovers, Mutual Pining, Secret Baby, He Falls First, Past and Present, Protective and Possessive MMC, Chemistry, It’s Always Been You, Touch Her And Die Vibes, Violence, Murder, Death, SA Attempt, Vomiting, Sexual Content, Crawling, Dirty Talk, Virgin and Aftercare.
Check Triggers ⚠️ 💫
All Round Romance Reader
Sienasummerrreads 💕📚
TikTok | Instagram | Goodreads | StoryGraph | Everand | Amazon | Audible Reviews 💫
May 11, 2024
I love this series with my entire heart! 🖤
I really enjoyed Vanessa + Kolt's story. I didn't know what to expect from this since you sorta know the outcome in book 2, but I really really enjoyed the flashbacks in this
I highly recommend reading this entire series before Ria's new book Playing With Fire because OMG, I am sooooo excited!!!
Such a fun and quick series!
"I can't be here, where you are, and not want to drown in you."
"Beneath these dark dies is where we began and it's only right, it's where I promise her my forever."
- romantic suspense
- surprise pregnancy
- age gap
- darkish small town
- second chance
- touch her & die
- suspense
last book in the Ravenpeak Bay series!
I really enjoyed Vanessa + Kolt's story. I didn't know what to expect from this since you sorta know the outcome in book 2, but I really really enjoyed the flashbacks in this
I highly recommend reading this entire series before Ria's new book Playing With Fire because OMG, I am sooooo excited!!!
Such a fun and quick series!
"I can't be here, where you are, and not want to drown in you."
"Beneath these dark dies is where we began and it's only right, it's where I promise her my forever."
- romantic suspense
- surprise pregnancy
- age gap
- darkish small town
- second chance
- touch her & die
- suspense
last book in the Ravenpeak Bay series!
May 17, 2024
3.5 Stars
Overall a decent story. I enjoyed both H and h but their story takes awhile before they are together. I wished the author would have given us more interaction without the drama lol
Also, how did he get out of his ‘job’ without getting killed? What did he do during those years he was ‘disconnected’ from the world? How come he came back one day after disappearing with barely any grovel? I get he was trying to protect the h but he still left her behind with no word.
So yes, a few open-ended questions but both were celibate during the 5 year separation. That was nice for a change 😊
Overall a decent story. I enjoyed both H and h but their story takes awhile before they are together. I wished the author would have given us more interaction without the drama lol
Also, how did he get out of his ‘job’ without getting killed? What did he do during those years he was ‘disconnected’ from the world? How come he came back one day after disappearing with barely any grovel? I get he was trying to protect the h but he still left her behind with no word.
So yes, a few open-ended questions but both were celibate during the 5 year separation. That was nice for a change 😊
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 23, 2024
★★★★★. Absolutely phenomenally beautiful. Ria continued to write this series so well. All the angst, pain, and happy moments flowed together so well. The way the plot moved and how she wrote the characters was amazing. One of my favorite series ever with all the best tropes and couples.
I have been waiting for Kolten’s book ever since reading These Rough Waters and all I can say is that Ria blew my expectations out of the water. She went above and beyond. There was the perfect amount of angst and pain, but also we didn’t have to wait FOREVER for Kolt and Vanessa to get back together.
Kolten. The most perfect man. Came back and was there immediately for his son and woman. Came back for HER. Always wanting to be there for her. I felt so bad when he realized how much he missed out on, but I loved how he immediately stepped up and was there for everyday on. He didn’t let anything or anyone stop him from getting his family. He loved Vanessa so perfectly that I cried pretty much from the start because of his acts towards her. AND he stayed celibate. For YEARS, he didn’t look or touch any other woman. His heart and body belonged to Vanessa and that was everything.
Now what had me bawling was him watching those videos of Vanessa and going through the baby album. Ria adding in the part where Vanessa felt like she couldn’t do it anymore, I sobbed.
Vanessa, little trouble. I love her. She’s perfect. She was so strong. The minute she found out she was pregnant she did everything possible to contact Kolten and kept trying to contact him for 6 months. Even after she gave birth, she contacted him. Her keeping the album was everything. I loved how she stood up for herself to her sister, but it HURT reading how she felt ashamed for having his baby when he left her (to protect her). All she wanted was Kolten and I’m so happy she got him, her son and their little baby on the way.
I can’t wait for Ria’s next series and I’m praying it’s Olivia’s and follows that whole plot line. Will never get over this series and need all copies in my hands immediately.
“Why did you come back, Kolt?” I finally ask the question that’s been burning on the tip of my tongue since he showed up. “
“He stares at me, his deep brown eyes so expressive and open it catches my breath. “I came back for you, Vanessa.” He whispers it, “I came back to fix what I broke, but I’m starting to realize there is no remedy to the damage I caused. I can only tell you I’m sorry, even if sorry isn’t good enough.”
“I want to be in her soul, buried under her skin like she’s buried under mine.”
“Never did I think we would end up here,” I admit quietly. “It was always my goal to make my way back to you,” He says, voice a rasp at my ear, “Whether it be now or in a couple more years, I would have made my way back.”
I have been waiting for Kolten’s book ever since reading These Rough Waters and all I can say is that Ria blew my expectations out of the water. She went above and beyond. There was the perfect amount of angst and pain, but also we didn’t have to wait FOREVER for Kolt and Vanessa to get back together.
Kolten. The most perfect man. Came back and was there immediately for his son and woman. Came back for HER. Always wanting to be there for her. I felt so bad when he realized how much he missed out on, but I loved how he immediately stepped up and was there for everyday on. He didn’t let anything or anyone stop him from getting his family. He loved Vanessa so perfectly that I cried pretty much from the start because of his acts towards her. AND he stayed celibate. For YEARS, he didn’t look or touch any other woman. His heart and body belonged to Vanessa and that was everything.
Now what had me bawling was him watching those videos of Vanessa and going through the baby album. Ria adding in the part where Vanessa felt like she couldn’t do it anymore, I sobbed.
Vanessa, little trouble. I love her. She’s perfect. She was so strong. The minute she found out she was pregnant she did everything possible to contact Kolten and kept trying to contact him for 6 months. Even after she gave birth, she contacted him. Her keeping the album was everything. I loved how she stood up for herself to her sister, but it HURT reading how she felt ashamed for having his baby when he left her (to protect her). All she wanted was Kolten and I’m so happy she got him, her son and their little baby on the way.
I can’t wait for Ria’s next series and I’m praying it’s Olivia’s and follows that whole plot line. Will never get over this series and need all copies in my hands immediately.
“Why did you come back, Kolt?” I finally ask the question that’s been burning on the tip of my tongue since he showed up. “
“He stares at me, his deep brown eyes so expressive and open it catches my breath. “I came back for you, Vanessa.” He whispers it, “I came back to fix what I broke, but I’m starting to realize there is no remedy to the damage I caused. I can only tell you I’m sorry, even if sorry isn’t good enough.”
“I want to be in her soul, buried under her skin like she’s buried under mine.”
“Never did I think we would end up here,” I admit quietly. “It was always my goal to make my way back to you,” He says, voice a rasp at my ear, “Whether it be now or in a couple more years, I would have made my way back.”
June 21, 2024
I didn't read the previous books
Sooooo
Kolten is one of three brothers who live dangerous lives, assasins for hire(I think this is probably better explained in book 1 it's kinda vague here) they work for an organisation where retirement isn't an option. Just as he's getting to know Vanessa an attempt is made on his brother's life. Kolten offers to take his place instead. Unable to leave Vanessa alone he finds her and saves her from being raped. They have sex but he leaves the next day with no word of his whereabouts. Two years later he returns to his hometown where he finds Vanessa....and his son
******
This was pretty ok
She couldn't contact him but she was close friends with his brothers and their wives but she didn't tell anyone that it was his child
When he returns it's cleared up pretty quickly
She takes a little while to forgive him because she doesn't trust that he won't leave again
I wanted to see him make some big financial contributions, she literally quit college to take care of their son but this was a me thing
All in all a much better read than the one book I've previously tried by this author
No cheating
No others since they've met, not even in the two year separation
Baby from a ONS
I read it as a standalone as I have yet to read the 2 previous books
Sooooo
Kolten is one of three brothers who live dangerous lives, assasins for hire(I think this is probably better explained in book 1 it's kinda vague here) they work for an organisation where retirement isn't an option. Just as he's getting to know Vanessa an attempt is made on his brother's life. Kolten offers to take his place instead. Unable to leave Vanessa alone he finds her and saves her from being raped. They have sex but he leaves the next day with no word of his whereabouts. Two years later he returns to his hometown where he finds Vanessa....and his son
******
This was pretty ok
She couldn't contact him but she was close friends with his brothers and their wives but she didn't tell anyone that it was his child
When he returns it's cleared up pretty quickly
She takes a little while to forgive him because she doesn't trust that he won't leave again
I wanted to see him make some big financial contributions, she literally quit college to take care of their son but this was a me thing
All in all a much better read than the one book I've previously tried by this author
No cheating
No others since they've met, not even in the two year separation
Baby from a ONS
I read it as a standalone as I have yet to read the 2 previous books
December 12, 2025
"Ella es mi luna. Mis estrellas. Mi para siempre. Mientras viva la noche y brille la luna, soy suyo"
Estoy tan feliz con esta lectura 🥺♥️, esperaba mucho el libro de Vanessa y Kolten ya que sospechaba muchísimo sobre el papá del pequeño Ethan y ame su caótica historia de amor.
Vanessa y Kolten se conocen en una noche a la luz de las estrellas y lo que empezó como una charla casual se convirtió rápidamente en muchas noches en las que ambos compartían cosas de sus vidas y encontraron un amigo en que confiar, amistad que después de un beso pasa a algo mas y a pesar de que desde el inicio hicieron un acuerdo para ser solo "una aventura sin futuro" las cosas se salieron de las manos y los sentimientos crecieron rápidamente razón por la que cuando la vida peligrosa que lleva Kolten la pone a ella en peligro terminan pasando años separados y ella con el corazón roto.
Tiempo después ella esta haciendo su vida nuevamente pero siempre con el vacío que dejo la presencia de Kolten y una noche en la que esta por pasar por la peor experiencia del mundo aparece el para salvarla y deciden estar juntos por última vez, a la mañana siguiente ella despierta para descubrir que el se fue sin despedirse, tiempo después descubre que esta embarazada y su corazón termina de romperse cuando intenta buscarlo y el nunca contesta 💔.
Años mas tarde ella regresa a su hogar porque ser madre soltera no es nada fácil y se lleva una sorpresa cuando Kolten aparece y se da cuenta que ella es madre y que es papá. Su relación esta vez es diferente porque ella no quiere saber nada de el ya que le hizo mucho daño y a pesar de que intenta no sentir rechazo hacía el papá de su bebé y hombre que una vez amo le es imposible. Kolten demuestra ser un gran padre y compañero en todo momento, su arrepentimiento es muy grande y sincero y en todo el libro me sentí triste por el porque no era su intención herir a la mujer que amaba y le dolió descubrir que ella pasó el embarazo sola y que se perdió una parte importante de la vida de su bebé.
Ame su historia y la manera en la que se desarrollo todo porque hubieron grandes crecimientos de parte de ambos personajes y las cosas no mejoraron de un momento para el otro si no que hubo disculpas y ambos dieron lo mejor de si mismos para dejar el pasado de nuevo atrás y empezar de nuevo ♥️🥺.
Estoy tan feliz con esta lectura 🥺♥️, esperaba mucho el libro de Vanessa y Kolten ya que sospechaba muchísimo sobre el papá del pequeño Ethan y ame su caótica historia de amor.
Vanessa y Kolten se conocen en una noche a la luz de las estrellas y lo que empezó como una charla casual se convirtió rápidamente en muchas noches en las que ambos compartían cosas de sus vidas y encontraron un amigo en que confiar, amistad que después de un beso pasa a algo mas y a pesar de que desde el inicio hicieron un acuerdo para ser solo "una aventura sin futuro" las cosas se salieron de las manos y los sentimientos crecieron rápidamente razón por la que cuando la vida peligrosa que lleva Kolten la pone a ella en peligro terminan pasando años separados y ella con el corazón roto.
Tiempo después ella esta haciendo su vida nuevamente pero siempre con el vacío que dejo la presencia de Kolten y una noche en la que esta por pasar por la peor experiencia del mundo aparece el para salvarla y deciden estar juntos por última vez, a la mañana siguiente ella despierta para descubrir que el se fue sin despedirse, tiempo después descubre que esta embarazada y su corazón termina de romperse cuando intenta buscarlo y el nunca contesta 💔.
Años mas tarde ella regresa a su hogar porque ser madre soltera no es nada fácil y se lleva una sorpresa cuando Kolten aparece y se da cuenta que ella es madre y que es papá. Su relación esta vez es diferente porque ella no quiere saber nada de el ya que le hizo mucho daño y a pesar de que intenta no sentir rechazo hacía el papá de su bebé y hombre que una vez amo le es imposible. Kolten demuestra ser un gran padre y compañero en todo momento, su arrepentimiento es muy grande y sincero y en todo el libro me sentí triste por el porque no era su intención herir a la mujer que amaba y le dolió descubrir que ella pasó el embarazo sola y que se perdió una parte importante de la vida de su bebé.
Ame su historia y la manera en la que se desarrollo todo porque hubieron grandes crecimientos de parte de ambos personajes y las cosas no mejoraron de un momento para el otro si no que hubo disculpas y ambos dieron lo mejor de si mismos para dejar el pasado de nuevo atrás y empezar de nuevo ♥️🥺.
January 13, 2026
This book was a really good read and it includes some of my favorite tropes—second chance romance, accidental pregnancy, and a surprise child.
The story follows Kolten and Vanessa, who met five years earlier and became friends. Kolten eventually leaves without saying goodbye, not out of choice, but because he was trying to protect both Vanessa and his brothers.
I really enjoyed how the author handled the groveling. Kolten truly put in the work, and it felt earned. I also loved how Vanessa’s pregnancy and childbirth journey was written. The way she documented everything so Kolten wouldn’t miss out when he eventually returned was incredibly touching and emotional.
Another highlight for me was how the author explored Vanessa’s insecurities surrounding Kolten’s disappearance. Her hurt, fear, and emotional walls were written with so much care and depth, making her reactions feel very real and understandable.
Overall, this is a solid 4-star read, and I definitely recommend it.
The story follows Kolten and Vanessa, who met five years earlier and became friends. Kolten eventually leaves without saying goodbye, not out of choice, but because he was trying to protect both Vanessa and his brothers.
I really enjoyed how the author handled the groveling. Kolten truly put in the work, and it felt earned. I also loved how Vanessa’s pregnancy and childbirth journey was written. The way she documented everything so Kolten wouldn’t miss out when he eventually returned was incredibly touching and emotional.
Another highlight for me was how the author explored Vanessa’s insecurities surrounding Kolten’s disappearance. Her hurt, fear, and emotional walls were written with so much care and depth, making her reactions feel very real and understandable.
Overall, this is a solid 4-star read, and I definitely recommend it.
April 22, 2024
4.5 🌟
So I LOVED the first two books in this series but that's nothing to how I feel about THIS ONE. 💖💖💖
This one was extremely different from the first two books. This one was definitely more focused on the romance which I loved. THAT was the plotline. Which was surprising to me because Kolton the H was mentioned as the mysterious brother in the other two books. The elusive dangerous one. So I expected something else and I was pleasantly surprised. He was quite literally a gentle giant who loved fiercely. 😭🫶♥️♥️♥️ MY FAVOURITE brother. He was loyal, protective with his brothers AND with Vanessa (h). He was just a Teddy bear who was the most loving dad. For a trained Assassin who quite literally killed people for a living, he was all lovey dovey from start to finish. And I ATE that shit up. 😭✋️
This was a wonderful conclusion to this series. 🫶🫶🫶 I'll definitely be back to read more from this author.
So I LOVED the first two books in this series but that's nothing to how I feel about THIS ONE. 💖💖💖
This one was extremely different from the first two books. This one was definitely more focused on the romance which I loved. THAT was the plotline. Which was surprising to me because Kolton the H was mentioned as the mysterious brother in the other two books. The elusive dangerous one. So I expected something else and I was pleasantly surprised. He was quite literally a gentle giant who loved fiercely. 😭🫶♥️♥️♥️ MY FAVOURITE brother. He was loyal, protective with his brothers AND with Vanessa (h). He was just a Teddy bear who was the most loving dad. For a trained Assassin who quite literally killed people for a living, he was all lovey dovey from start to finish. And I ATE that shit up. 😭✋️
This was a wonderful conclusion to this series. 🫶🫶🫶 I'll definitely be back to read more from this author.
February 26, 2024
one thing about me is i will always eat up a surprise pregnancy/secret child romance
February 22, 2024
My absolute FAVORITE in the Ravenpeak Bay series!! Kolt and Nessa have such a unique story and watching it unfold was such an amazing and emotional experience! Ria is 100% UNMATCHED in the way her men talk to her women and I FREAKING LOVE IT! The ups and downs made this an exciting and fast-paced read! Another home run by Ria Wilde!
March 21, 2024
Beneath the dark skies
Vanessa and Kolten's love story kicked off amidst a small-town calamity. Their clandestine meetings under the dark skies fueled an unexpected infatuation. Vanessa, initially seeing their relationship as a fleeting fling before college, found herself caught off guard by Kolten's fervent obsession and protective vows.
A year later, they briefly reunited before Kolten vanished, taking Vanessa's heart with him. Now, three years later, Vanessa, a newfound mother, faces Kolten's sudden return and the revelation of their secret child. Despite the risks, she's ready to roll the dice on love again.
Kolten, wrestling with his decision to leave Vanessa, returns with groveling determination. He pulls out all the stops to earn Vanessa's forgiveness, proving his devotion to both her and their child. The quirky family dynamics between Kolten and his brothers add an endearing layer to their tale.
This book served up a delightful mix of love and redemption, with Kolten's quirky groveling adding an amusing twist to his journey. As a first-time reader of the series and author, the experience was a whimsical delight, leaving me eager for more from both.
Vanessa and Kolten's love story kicked off amidst a small-town calamity. Their clandestine meetings under the dark skies fueled an unexpected infatuation. Vanessa, initially seeing their relationship as a fleeting fling before college, found herself caught off guard by Kolten's fervent obsession and protective vows.
A year later, they briefly reunited before Kolten vanished, taking Vanessa's heart with him. Now, three years later, Vanessa, a newfound mother, faces Kolten's sudden return and the revelation of their secret child. Despite the risks, she's ready to roll the dice on love again.
Kolten, wrestling with his decision to leave Vanessa, returns with groveling determination. He pulls out all the stops to earn Vanessa's forgiveness, proving his devotion to both her and their child. The quirky family dynamics between Kolten and his brothers add an endearing layer to their tale.
This book served up a delightful mix of love and redemption, with Kolten's quirky groveling adding an amusing twist to his journey. As a first-time reader of the series and author, the experience was a whimsical delight, leaving me eager for more from both.
February 25, 2024
MY GOD. This was HANDS DOWN, Ria’s best book yet. I couldn’t have asked for a more perfect ending to this series.
I read this in under a day, only putting it down late in the night when I passed out. This book hooked me from page 1, and had me OBSESSED with Kolt and Vanessa. Some men come into your life and leave you changed and never the same. Kolt is that man.
The love and chemistry between these two is so palpable, so much that I felt it in my soul. The angst and emotion in this book was painfully perfect and I didn’t want to stop for breaks because I needed to know what was going to happen as quickly as I could.
This was a quick binge read, done absolutely perfectly. These two have an irrevocable bond that could bring you to your knees. I can’t find all the words I want to explain the love and emotion I have for this book. It was just absolute perfection.
5 🌟 to Kolt and Nessa.
I read this in under a day, only putting it down late in the night when I passed out. This book hooked me from page 1, and had me OBSESSED with Kolt and Vanessa. Some men come into your life and leave you changed and never the same. Kolt is that man.
The love and chemistry between these two is so palpable, so much that I felt it in my soul. The angst and emotion in this book was painfully perfect and I didn’t want to stop for breaks because I needed to know what was going to happen as quickly as I could.
This was a quick binge read, done absolutely perfectly. These two have an irrevocable bond that could bring you to your knees. I can’t find all the words I want to explain the love and emotion I have for this book. It was just absolute perfection.
5 🌟 to Kolt and Nessa.
July 13, 2025
I’ve absolutely loved the Ravenpeak Bay series and the brothers are the heart of it all. Each book pulls you in deeper, and while I was expecting a bit more intensity or closure from this last one, it still delivered a solid story. Personally love the first two books more!
Now…. I’m itching to get to Malakai’s story next.
If you love small town romance with some suspense elements, romance and great sibling dynamics, this series is worth the ride.
Now…. I’m itching to get to Malakai’s story next.
If you love small town romance with some suspense elements, romance and great sibling dynamics, this series is worth the ride.
March 13, 2025
(Liked it but didn’t love it) however the first two books are just so good! Utter chefs kiss 🤌🏻 and are MUST reads… thoroughly enjoyed the world of the avery brothers 🫠🫠
February 22, 2024
By far my FAVORITE of this series. I love all Rias books and this one was no different! Kolt and Vanessa had such gravitational connection between each other! The chemistry was magnetic. I love how both were strong main characters but also didn’t get in the way on one another.. I love the way all the Avery bothers have a bond and how all the characters intertwined in some way! This book had me feeling all types of emotions.. i definitely recommend reading all three Ravenpeak bay books.
March 8, 2025
the bits and pieces we get of them in the past 🥹
February 22, 2024
This was a great conclusion to the series. Early in the series, we learned something had gone down with Vanessa and the elusive brother Kolten Avery. At the end of book two, a lot of the mystery behind Kolten was out in the open, but still, there were questions about how and when he and Vanessa were involved.
This book answers it all beautifully. I had no idea how far back their connection was going to stretch or how it would play out. I loved their instant connection and the way they didn't plan to fall into each other but just couldn't stop it.
Vanessa is sweet and funny and isn't deterred by Kolten's broodiness or scowl. She also doesn't let her lack of experience or plans to leave stop whatever is happening between them.
Koletn is all dark and twisty but the light cracks through with Vanessa. Even his brothers don't bring out any kind of feelings like that.
There were a lot of emotions involved. In the beginning, they were sweet and flirty, building to something. Then they were damaged and fractured leading to hurt and pain and a lot of lost time. In the end, it all comes down to being pulled apart by forces they couldn't stop and a bit of stubbornness/concern on Kolten's part.
This is the only book that has a lot of interaction with the brothers together and that interaction had plenty of highs and lows.
I thoroughly enjoyed this series by the wonderful Ria Wilde and can't wait for more. I'm hoping we'll be getting Arryn's sister's story and maybe we'll see some of the Avery's again too.
.
.
.
Koletn is in Ravenpeak Bay to support his brother who has just lost his wife and son. His brother is shattered and a shell of himself and Kolten and Rett are there to support him. He doesn't really understand his brother's desire to leave their old life behind and settle down, even more so now with the devastation he is suffering through.
Surprisingly though, Kolten is struck when he meets a woman lying on the sand in a beautiful dress and despite the way he looks and his cold demeanor, she doesn't seem to be scared by him.
'If I wasn't going to hell before, I am now, because taking something as pure as Vanessa will be my damnation. But damnation has never looked to good. Or felt this perfect.'
Vanessa just wanted some time alone after the funeral of her friend and she thought on the beach would be quiet. Instead, a gorgeous man, who could only be the Avery brother no one really knows approaches her. There is something about him that despite the energy he gives off, draws her in. Soon she finds meeting up with him every night is the highlight of her days.
"Kiss me." His mouth crashes onto mine without question. Just friends, I tell myself. We are just friends.'
Spending time with Vanessa quickly becomes an addiction that Kolten doesn't want to fight, but when his real life and the safety of Vanessa and his brothers becomes an issue he chooses to take matters into his own hands. Solving the problem the way he thinks is best and leaving everyone behind.
Staying away from Vanessa proves harder than he could have imagined and he finds ways to check on her. One night the fact that he was there saves her and though he tries to leave again, her words pull him in. He swears it's the last time he'll put her in danger and tries to make sure he breaks all forms of contact with his old life.
'I do what I was supposed to do when I mad the deal, and I disappear like I never existed in the first place.'
Years later after reuniting with his brothers, who are furious with his choices, he finds his way back to Ravenpeak Bay. He intends to try to win back the only woman he's ever loved, but the years have some surprises in store and he may have lost any chance to have the woman he's never stopped loving.
"I came back for you, Vanessa. I came back to fix what I broke, but I'm starting to realize there is no remedy to the damage I caused. I can only tell you I'm sorry, even if sorry isn't good enough."
Happy Reading.
This book answers it all beautifully. I had no idea how far back their connection was going to stretch or how it would play out. I loved their instant connection and the way they didn't plan to fall into each other but just couldn't stop it.
Vanessa is sweet and funny and isn't deterred by Kolten's broodiness or scowl. She also doesn't let her lack of experience or plans to leave stop whatever is happening between them.
Koletn is all dark and twisty but the light cracks through with Vanessa. Even his brothers don't bring out any kind of feelings like that.
There were a lot of emotions involved. In the beginning, they were sweet and flirty, building to something. Then they were damaged and fractured leading to hurt and pain and a lot of lost time. In the end, it all comes down to being pulled apart by forces they couldn't stop and a bit of stubbornness/concern on Kolten's part.
This is the only book that has a lot of interaction with the brothers together and that interaction had plenty of highs and lows.
I thoroughly enjoyed this series by the wonderful Ria Wilde and can't wait for more. I'm hoping we'll be getting Arryn's sister's story and maybe we'll see some of the Avery's again too.
.
.
.
Koletn is in Ravenpeak Bay to support his brother who has just lost his wife and son. His brother is shattered and a shell of himself and Kolten and Rett are there to support him. He doesn't really understand his brother's desire to leave their old life behind and settle down, even more so now with the devastation he is suffering through.
Surprisingly though, Kolten is struck when he meets a woman lying on the sand in a beautiful dress and despite the way he looks and his cold demeanor, she doesn't seem to be scared by him.
'If I wasn't going to hell before, I am now, because taking something as pure as Vanessa will be my damnation. But damnation has never looked to good. Or felt this perfect.'
Vanessa just wanted some time alone after the funeral of her friend and she thought on the beach would be quiet. Instead, a gorgeous man, who could only be the Avery brother no one really knows approaches her. There is something about him that despite the energy he gives off, draws her in. Soon she finds meeting up with him every night is the highlight of her days.
"Kiss me." His mouth crashes onto mine without question. Just friends, I tell myself. We are just friends.'
Spending time with Vanessa quickly becomes an addiction that Kolten doesn't want to fight, but when his real life and the safety of Vanessa and his brothers becomes an issue he chooses to take matters into his own hands. Solving the problem the way he thinks is best and leaving everyone behind.
Staying away from Vanessa proves harder than he could have imagined and he finds ways to check on her. One night the fact that he was there saves her and though he tries to leave again, her words pull him in. He swears it's the last time he'll put her in danger and tries to make sure he breaks all forms of contact with his old life.
'I do what I was supposed to do when I mad the deal, and I disappear like I never existed in the first place.'
Years later after reuniting with his brothers, who are furious with his choices, he finds his way back to Ravenpeak Bay. He intends to try to win back the only woman he's ever loved, but the years have some surprises in store and he may have lost any chance to have the woman he's never stopped loving.
"I came back for you, Vanessa. I came back to fix what I broke, but I'm starting to realize there is no remedy to the damage I caused. I can only tell you I'm sorry, even if sorry isn't good enough."
Happy Reading.
February 22, 2024
“ɪ ᴡᴏɴ’ᴛ sᴛᴏᴘ, ɴᴇss. ʙᴇᴄᴀᴜsᴇ ɪ ғᴇʟʟ ɪɴ ʟᴏᴠᴇ ᴡɪᴛʜ ʏᴏᴜ ᴛᴏᴏ. sᴘᴇɴᴅɪɴɢ ᴛʜᴏsᴇ ɴɪɢʜᴛs ᴡɪᴛʜ ʏᴏᴜ, ᴡᴀᴛᴄʜɪɴɢ ᴛʜᴇ sᴛᴀʀs, ᴡɪᴛɴᴇssɪɴɢ ᴛʜᴏsᴇ ᴅᴀʀᴋ sᴋɪᴇs ᴍᴇʟᴛ ɪɴᴛᴏ ᴅᴀᴡɴ, ᴛʜᴇʏ ᴡᴇʀᴇ ᴛʜᴇ ʙᴇsᴛ ɴɪɢʜᴛs ᴏғ ᴍʏ ʟɪғᴇ. ɪ ᴡᴀɴᴛ ᴛᴏ ᴅᴏ ʟɪғᴇ ᴡɪᴛʜ ʏᴏᴜ, ᴇᴠᴇʀʏ ᴍᴇssʏ ᴍɪɴᴜᴛᴇ ᴏғ ɪᴛ. ɪ ᴡᴀɴᴛ ᴇᴠᴇʀʏ sᴏʀʀʏ ᴀɴᴅ ᴛʜᴀɴᴋ ʏᴏᴜ, ɪ ᴡᴀɴᴛ ᴍᴇssʏ ᴍᴏʀɴɪɴɢs ᴀɴᴅ ǫᴜɪᴇᴛ ᴇᴠᴇɴɪɴɢs. ɪ ᴡᴀɴᴛ ᴛᴏ ᴡᴀᴛᴄʜ ᴛʜᴇ ᴍᴏᴏɴ, sᴇᴇ ᴇᴠᴇʀʏ sᴜɴsᴇᴛ, ᴀɴᴅ ᴄᴏᴜɴᴛ ᴛʜᴇ sᴛᴀʀs ᴡɪᴛʜ ʏᴏᴜ, ᴛʀᴏᴜʙʟᴇ.”
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Spice level: 🌶️🌶️
tension: 📈📈📈
This book is the 3rd and final book of the series and it spans over a 5 years period. I had the chance to ARC the previous books in the series so I was happy to have also received this one. The novel tells the story if Vanessa Hale and Kolten Avery the eldest if the Avery boys. Has mentioned before. This book span over a 5 year period, starting from their meeting, coincidentally on the day that Torin (book 1 & middle brother) buried his first-wife and their son. It showed us how these two conventionally different people were able to fall for each other in what was supposed to be a fling.
It shows us how dedicated and loyal Kolt actually us to his family and how he was willing to make sacrifices even if it was at his own expense. It showed us how Vanessa as young as she was, was able to make to best of a crazy situation. I will saw just like the other 2 leading ladies and owner if the Avery brothers Vanessa is special to me. Meeting her in the other books had me intrigued so to see her in her own made me love her even more. She is strong and an amazing mom to her little boy.
This book also gave us more of the dynamic among the brothers and the impact Kolt’s sacrifice and actions had on them. This book did have much talk of organisation as the other 2 books and is the most domestic and wholesome of the trilogy. I truly loved this and Ria’s writing.
Here’s to a successful series completion.
“𝙏𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙚 𝙬𝙖𝙨𝙣’𝙩 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙣𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧 𝙬𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙗𝙚 𝙖 𝙡𝙚𝙣𝙜𝙩𝙝 𝙄 𝙬𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙣𝙤𝙩 𝙜𝙤 𝙩𝙤, 𝙩𝙤 𝙥𝙧𝙤𝙩𝙚𝙘𝙩 𝙮𝙤𝙪, 𝙩𝙧𝙤𝙪𝙗𝙡𝙚. 𝙉𝙤 𝙥𝙚𝙧𝙨𝙤𝙣 𝙄 𝙬𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙣𝙤𝙩 𝙙𝙚𝙨𝙩𝙧𝙤𝙮 𝙩𝙤 𝙚𝙣𝙨𝙪𝙧𝙚 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙖𝙧𝙚 𝙨𝙖𝙛𝙚. 𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝙤𝙣𝙡𝙮 𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙨𝙤𝙣 𝙋𝙖𝙩𝙧𝙞𝙘𝙠 𝙙𝙞𝙙𝙣’𝙩 𝙚𝙣𝙙 𝙪𝙥 𝙙𝙚𝙖𝙙 𝙞𝙨 𝙗𝙚𝙘𝙖𝙪𝙨𝙚 𝙤𝙛 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙩𝙧𝙤𝙪𝙗𝙡𝙚 𝙞𝙩 𝙬𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙 𝙝𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙘𝙖𝙪𝙨𝙚𝙙 𝙮𝙤𝙪, 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙮 𝙙𝙖𝙮 𝙨𝙞𝙣𝙘𝙚, 𝙄 𝙝𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙛𝙤𝙪𝙜𝙝𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙙𝙚𝙘𝙞𝙨𝙞𝙤𝙣 𝙣𝙤𝙩 𝙩𝙤 𝙚𝙣𝙙 𝙝𝙞𝙢, 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙣 𝙣𝙤𝙬, 𝙨𝙖𝙩 𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙚, 𝙗𝙚𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙧𝙚𝙢𝙞𝙣𝙙𝙚𝙙 𝙤𝙛 𝙬𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙝𝙚 𝙩𝙧𝙞𝙚𝙙 𝙩𝙤 𝙙𝙤 𝙩𝙤 𝙮𝙤𝙪, 𝙢𝙖𝙠𝙚𝙨 𝙢𝙚 𝙬𝙖𝙣𝙩 𝙩𝙤 𝙜𝙤 𝙛𝙞𝙣𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙡𝙞𝙩𝙩𝙡𝙚 𝙥𝙞𝙚𝙘𝙚 𝙤𝙛 𝙨𝙝𝙞𝙩 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙧𝙞𝙥 𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙝𝙚𝙖𝙙 𝙛𝙧𝙤𝙢 𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙣𝙚𝙘𝙠.”
TROPES & THEMES
» Single Mom
» Grumpy Assassin
» Obsessive/Possessive MC
» Age Gap
» Time lost
» Fling to love
» Touch her you 👽
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Spice level: 🌶️🌶️
tension: 📈📈📈
This book is the 3rd and final book of the series and it spans over a 5 years period. I had the chance to ARC the previous books in the series so I was happy to have also received this one. The novel tells the story if Vanessa Hale and Kolten Avery the eldest if the Avery boys. Has mentioned before. This book span over a 5 year period, starting from their meeting, coincidentally on the day that Torin (book 1 & middle brother) buried his first-wife and their son. It showed us how these two conventionally different people were able to fall for each other in what was supposed to be a fling.
It shows us how dedicated and loyal Kolt actually us to his family and how he was willing to make sacrifices even if it was at his own expense. It showed us how Vanessa as young as she was, was able to make to best of a crazy situation. I will saw just like the other 2 leading ladies and owner if the Avery brothers Vanessa is special to me. Meeting her in the other books had me intrigued so to see her in her own made me love her even more. She is strong and an amazing mom to her little boy.
This book also gave us more of the dynamic among the brothers and the impact Kolt’s sacrifice and actions had on them. This book did have much talk of organisation as the other 2 books and is the most domestic and wholesome of the trilogy. I truly loved this and Ria’s writing.
Here’s to a successful series completion.
“𝙏𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙚 𝙬𝙖𝙨𝙣’𝙩 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙣𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧 𝙬𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙗𝙚 𝙖 𝙡𝙚𝙣𝙜𝙩𝙝 𝙄 𝙬𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙣𝙤𝙩 𝙜𝙤 𝙩𝙤, 𝙩𝙤 𝙥𝙧𝙤𝙩𝙚𝙘𝙩 𝙮𝙤𝙪, 𝙩𝙧𝙤𝙪𝙗𝙡𝙚. 𝙉𝙤 𝙥𝙚𝙧𝙨𝙤𝙣 𝙄 𝙬𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙣𝙤𝙩 𝙙𝙚𝙨𝙩𝙧𝙤𝙮 𝙩𝙤 𝙚𝙣𝙨𝙪𝙧𝙚 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙖𝙧𝙚 𝙨𝙖𝙛𝙚. 𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝙤𝙣𝙡𝙮 𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙨𝙤𝙣 𝙋𝙖𝙩𝙧𝙞𝙘𝙠 𝙙𝙞𝙙𝙣’𝙩 𝙚𝙣𝙙 𝙪𝙥 𝙙𝙚𝙖𝙙 𝙞𝙨 𝙗𝙚𝙘𝙖𝙪𝙨𝙚 𝙤𝙛 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙩𝙧𝙤𝙪𝙗𝙡𝙚 𝙞𝙩 𝙬𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙 𝙝𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙘𝙖𝙪𝙨𝙚𝙙 𝙮𝙤𝙪, 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙮 𝙙𝙖𝙮 𝙨𝙞𝙣𝙘𝙚, 𝙄 𝙝𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙛𝙤𝙪𝙜𝙝𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙙𝙚𝙘𝙞𝙨𝙞𝙤𝙣 𝙣𝙤𝙩 𝙩𝙤 𝙚𝙣𝙙 𝙝𝙞𝙢, 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙣 𝙣𝙤𝙬, 𝙨𝙖𝙩 𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙚, 𝙗𝙚𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙧𝙚𝙢𝙞𝙣𝙙𝙚𝙙 𝙤𝙛 𝙬𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙝𝙚 𝙩𝙧𝙞𝙚𝙙 𝙩𝙤 𝙙𝙤 𝙩𝙤 𝙮𝙤𝙪, 𝙢𝙖𝙠𝙚𝙨 𝙢𝙚 𝙬𝙖𝙣𝙩 𝙩𝙤 𝙜𝙤 𝙛𝙞𝙣𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙡𝙞𝙩𝙩𝙡𝙚 𝙥𝙞𝙚𝙘𝙚 𝙤𝙛 𝙨𝙝𝙞𝙩 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙧𝙞𝙥 𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙝𝙚𝙖𝙙 𝙛𝙧𝙤𝙢 𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙣𝙚𝙘𝙠.”
TROPES & THEMES
» Single Mom
» Grumpy Assassin
» Obsessive/Possessive MC
» Age Gap
» Time lost
» Fling to love
» Touch her you 👽
February 20, 2024
Vanessa & Kolt! We got hints of this pairing in Like A Hurricane, but little did we know there was more to their story!
We’ve gotten to know Vanessa in bits and pieces in prior books. She is an amazing mama bear, looking after Ethan with the support of her sister and the rest of Ravenspeake. She is protective of others and while she once had a dream to go to medical school, her son became hr number one priority. Vanessa also has been carrying a weight but at time we see some sunshine poke through. She is a down to earth and warm person.
Kolt is the oldest Avery brother. While he might not be Torin and Rhett’s brother by blood, he grew up with them and has always been looking out for them, often putting himself in harms way so that they can be protected. He isn’t very expressive but we see he is pensive, feels deeply and has a sense of humour. Kolt also has a heart of gold and will do anything he can for the people he loves.
These two! They have a chance meeting and instantly get along, with Kolt’s curiosity of Vanessa and Vanessa’s quiet, magnetic charm giving him a sense of home and happiness despite everything he’s gone through. Vanessa is unwittingly drawn to Kolt as well, as he seems easy for her to get along with, exchanging banter and comfortable silence. The two of them go through an emotional journey here, as we follow their past and present and cheer for their future. Their feelings are undeniable as we see they work well together and won’t back down. They are all in. I was looking for tissues at times and their story definitely pulls at the heart strings as they find their second chance, trying to make up for time lost as well as fighting for their relationship to grow. I definitely felt a quiet, soft tone throughout this book that left me with a calming peace.
We also see familiar faces across Ravenspeake as they help shape the couple’s story and add more dimension to the plot. I recommend you do read the prior books to avoid a few spoilers as their is overlapping timelines here (plus Torin/Maya and Rhett/Arryn’s stories are just as enjoyable). We also get a string for Olivia and Malakai, which I’m sure will be explored in their own book.
Overall this was an engaging read and maybe my favorite of the series.
We’ve gotten to know Vanessa in bits and pieces in prior books. She is an amazing mama bear, looking after Ethan with the support of her sister and the rest of Ravenspeake. She is protective of others and while she once had a dream to go to medical school, her son became hr number one priority. Vanessa also has been carrying a weight but at time we see some sunshine poke through. She is a down to earth and warm person.
Kolt is the oldest Avery brother. While he might not be Torin and Rhett’s brother by blood, he grew up with them and has always been looking out for them, often putting himself in harms way so that they can be protected. He isn’t very expressive but we see he is pensive, feels deeply and has a sense of humour. Kolt also has a heart of gold and will do anything he can for the people he loves.
These two! They have a chance meeting and instantly get along, with Kolt’s curiosity of Vanessa and Vanessa’s quiet, magnetic charm giving him a sense of home and happiness despite everything he’s gone through. Vanessa is unwittingly drawn to Kolt as well, as he seems easy for her to get along with, exchanging banter and comfortable silence. The two of them go through an emotional journey here, as we follow their past and present and cheer for their future. Their feelings are undeniable as we see they work well together and won’t back down. They are all in. I was looking for tissues at times and their story definitely pulls at the heart strings as they find their second chance, trying to make up for time lost as well as fighting for their relationship to grow. I definitely felt a quiet, soft tone throughout this book that left me with a calming peace.
We also see familiar faces across Ravenspeake as they help shape the couple’s story and add more dimension to the plot. I recommend you do read the prior books to avoid a few spoilers as their is overlapping timelines here (plus Torin/Maya and Rhett/Arryn’s stories are just as enjoyable). We also get a string for Olivia and Malakai, which I’m sure will be explored in their own book.
Overall this was an engaging read and maybe my favorite of the series.
February 22, 2024
🌟 4.5/5
🛑 Look at the author's trigger warning!!!
‼️ While this book could be read as a standalone, this is book 3 of the Ravenpeak Bay series.
ℙ𝕆𝕍: first person, dual perspectives
𝕊𝕦𝕞𝕞𝕒𝕣𝕪:
Vanessa
I was never supposed to fall in love with him. He was leaving. The two of us were never meant to last. A year later, a chance encounter brought us back together. The following day, he left and he took everything with him, except one thing. Now, three years later, I have a son. I never expected to see him again. Until he shows up, and the secret is revealed. I thought I had moved on and was ready to continue with my life. I realize I never did get my heart back, and despite the history between us and all the broken pieces at our feet, I was willing to try again.
Kolten
She thinks it was easy for me. To leave her behind and not come back for her. But I did it for a reason. It was beneath these dark skies five years ago when I fell in love for the first and last time, and Vanessa still owns my heart, even after all these years apart. But now I’m back, and the woman I love is now the mother to a child I didn't know I had. But the tricky thing about history is that it has a tendency to repeat itself.
𝕄𝕪 𝕋𝕙𝕠𝕦𝕘𝕙𝕥𝕤:
The build-up to Kolt and Vanessa's book is seen throughout the entire series if you are looking for it. This book doesn't have as many dark themes as the previous books due to the resolution of conflict, mostly happening at the end of the 2nd book. It's definitely not a bad thing. In fact, I loved it! In this book, we get to see the past and present of the couple's relationship. Especially the HEA that they deserve!❤️
I love it when I can physically feel the emotions of characters.To me, it means that the author's writing style pulls you in. I regularly seek out books where I can feel emotions. You know a book is good when that happens. Ria never ceases to make me feel her character's emotions, and I love it!🫶
I feel like a foundation was hinted at for the potential of a new series starring Olivia and a certain bad guy... I'm excited at the thought of it!!! Thank you for the ARC!!!🤩
🛑 Look at the author's trigger warning!!!
‼️ While this book could be read as a standalone, this is book 3 of the Ravenpeak Bay series.
ℙ𝕆𝕍: first person, dual perspectives
𝕊𝕦𝕞𝕞𝕒𝕣𝕪:
Vanessa
I was never supposed to fall in love with him. He was leaving. The two of us were never meant to last. A year later, a chance encounter brought us back together. The following day, he left and he took everything with him, except one thing. Now, three years later, I have a son. I never expected to see him again. Until he shows up, and the secret is revealed. I thought I had moved on and was ready to continue with my life. I realize I never did get my heart back, and despite the history between us and all the broken pieces at our feet, I was willing to try again.
Kolten
She thinks it was easy for me. To leave her behind and not come back for her. But I did it for a reason. It was beneath these dark skies five years ago when I fell in love for the first and last time, and Vanessa still owns my heart, even after all these years apart. But now I’m back, and the woman I love is now the mother to a child I didn't know I had. But the tricky thing about history is that it has a tendency to repeat itself.
𝕄𝕪 𝕋𝕙𝕠𝕦𝕘𝕙𝕥𝕤:
The build-up to Kolt and Vanessa's book is seen throughout the entire series if you are looking for it. This book doesn't have as many dark themes as the previous books due to the resolution of conflict, mostly happening at the end of the 2nd book. It's definitely not a bad thing. In fact, I loved it! In this book, we get to see the past and present of the couple's relationship. Especially the HEA that they deserve!❤️
I love it when I can physically feel the emotions of characters.To me, it means that the author's writing style pulls you in. I regularly seek out books where I can feel emotions. You know a book is good when that happens. Ria never ceases to make me feel her character's emotions, and I love it!🫶
I feel like a foundation was hinted at for the potential of a new series starring Olivia and a certain bad guy... I'm excited at the thought of it!!! Thank you for the ARC!!!🤩
April 7, 2024
"She is my moon. My stars. My forever. For as long as the night lives and the moon shines, I am hers."
Rating: 4.25/5
- Small town
- Dark romance
- Past & present
- Right person, wrong time
- Secret child
- Age gap (he’s 11 years older)
- Virgin FMC
- Dual POV
Beneath These Dark Skies follows Vanessa and Kolt, the mysterious adopted Avery brother. They meet in her small hometown when he visits five years ago for Torin's family's funeral. Every night they spend on the docks, getting to no one another and becoming friends.
Things slightly heat up before he has to leave, but Kolt can't quite let her go. We fast-forward 18 months, and they have one reunion before we continue to the present day. Kolt is finally free and ready to move on with his life when he realises Vanessa has a surprise in store.
First, I love Ria’s writing so much! It’s descriptive and captivating, hooking you in from the first chapter. Second, I'm a sucker for a past/present storyline, and I loved seeing how their relationship developed.
Third, I loved Kolt's conviction in the present day. "I will be her rock if she needs me to be, her guide and aid, I’ll be whatever she needs me to be." He wasn't going to let her go now he had her back, even if it took Vanessa a moment longer to realise he was staying for good.
Also... hello Theo Silva moment 👀 – “That’s the mother of my son,” I growl, “You will treat her with some damn respect.”
Beneath These Dark Skies wasn't as dark or suspenseful as the other books in this series. Regardless, I think this is such an underrated, darker, small-town romance series that more people should pick up. It's available on KU, so no excuses!
“I won’t stop, Ness. Because I fell in love with you, too. Spending those nights with you, watching the stars, witnessing those dark skies melt into dawn, they were the best nights of my life. I want to do life with you, every messy minute of it. I want every sorry and thank you, I want messy mornings and quiet evenings. I want to watch the moon, see every sunset, and count the stars with you, trouble.”
Rating: 4.25/5
- Small town
- Dark romance
- Past & present
- Right person, wrong time
- Secret child
- Age gap (he’s 11 years older)
- Virgin FMC
- Dual POV
Beneath These Dark Skies follows Vanessa and Kolt, the mysterious adopted Avery brother. They meet in her small hometown when he visits five years ago for Torin's family's funeral. Every night they spend on the docks, getting to no one another and becoming friends.
Things slightly heat up before he has to leave, but Kolt can't quite let her go. We fast-forward 18 months, and they have one reunion before we continue to the present day. Kolt is finally free and ready to move on with his life when he realises Vanessa has a surprise in store.
First, I love Ria’s writing so much! It’s descriptive and captivating, hooking you in from the first chapter. Second, I'm a sucker for a past/present storyline, and I loved seeing how their relationship developed.
Third, I loved Kolt's conviction in the present day. "I will be her rock if she needs me to be, her guide and aid, I’ll be whatever she needs me to be." He wasn't going to let her go now he had her back, even if it took Vanessa a moment longer to realise he was staying for good.
Also... hello Theo Silva moment 👀 – “That’s the mother of my son,” I growl, “You will treat her with some damn respect.”
Beneath These Dark Skies wasn't as dark or suspenseful as the other books in this series. Regardless, I think this is such an underrated, darker, small-town romance series that more people should pick up. It's available on KU, so no excuses!
“I won’t stop, Ness. Because I fell in love with you, too. Spending those nights with you, watching the stars, witnessing those dark skies melt into dawn, they were the best nights of my life. I want to do life with you, every messy minute of it. I want every sorry and thank you, I want messy mornings and quiet evenings. I want to watch the moon, see every sunset, and count the stars with you, trouble.”
February 14, 2024
✨ Beneath These Dark Skies by Ria Wilde ✨
I was on such a reading slump after coming down with a nasty cold. I've read but I just couldn't get to put my thoughts together to write a review and it just bothered me, even more since I had some reviews that needed my attention but after reading this book I was finally able to get my thoughts going again.
It's so bittersweet reading the last book of the series. Kolt and Vanessa's story was so sweet and sad. I love how their story began and how they met and how they fell in love. Sad when Vanessa had to give up her dreams and elated when he was back and ready to make amends for his errors.
It was such a delight to also get a peek from the rest of the Avery brothers. Rett as always starting trouble and Torrin behaving like the older brother trying to keep Rett and Kolt in line.
Listen, this was a very slow burn. I think it was probably the tamest one in the series when it came to the number of scenes but the dirty mouth on this man sure made up for it 🥵🥵. Surprisingly this one had very little on their line of work and very little on what he was working on when he had been MIA but I have a feeling Ria did that for a reason. I'm very happy to see that the Avery brothers have found their HEA.
If you love
💫 Right person/wrong time
💫 He Falls First
💫 Secret pregnancy/baby
💫 Age Gap
Type: Small Town Romance
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Stand Alone or Series: Ravenpeak Bay Series
Tropes: Obsessed & Morally Grey MMC, Small Town, Virgin FMC, Friends to Lovers
TWs: Attempted SA, harassment, graphic violence, blackmail/bribery and mentions of neglect, mentions of grief & loss, and drowning. There are also mentions of death of a spouse & child which happened off page. It involves a secret baby storyline and struggles of being a single parent.
💋naj_ana_reads💋
Mood Reader
TikTok l Instagram l Goodreads l Amazon l Audible Reviews
I was on such a reading slump after coming down with a nasty cold. I've read but I just couldn't get to put my thoughts together to write a review and it just bothered me, even more since I had some reviews that needed my attention but after reading this book I was finally able to get my thoughts going again.
It's so bittersweet reading the last book of the series. Kolt and Vanessa's story was so sweet and sad. I love how their story began and how they met and how they fell in love. Sad when Vanessa had to give up her dreams and elated when he was back and ready to make amends for his errors.
It was such a delight to also get a peek from the rest of the Avery brothers. Rett as always starting trouble and Torrin behaving like the older brother trying to keep Rett and Kolt in line.
Listen, this was a very slow burn. I think it was probably the tamest one in the series when it came to the number of scenes but the dirty mouth on this man sure made up for it 🥵🥵. Surprisingly this one had very little on their line of work and very little on what he was working on when he had been MIA but I have a feeling Ria did that for a reason. I'm very happy to see that the Avery brothers have found their HEA.
If you love
💫 Right person/wrong time
💫 He Falls First
💫 Secret pregnancy/baby
💫 Age Gap
Type: Small Town Romance
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Stand Alone or Series: Ravenpeak Bay Series
Tropes: Obsessed & Morally Grey MMC, Small Town, Virgin FMC, Friends to Lovers
TWs: Attempted SA, harassment, graphic violence, blackmail/bribery and mentions of neglect, mentions of grief & loss, and drowning. There are also mentions of death of a spouse & child which happened off page. It involves a secret baby storyline and struggles of being a single parent.
💋naj_ana_reads💋
Mood Reader
TikTok l Instagram l Goodreads l Amazon l Audible Reviews
February 19, 2024
Vanessa
It was only supposed to be a quick fling a bit of fun before I buckled down and started my next journey. Ravenpeak Bay is too small I want more, to do more and explore all that life has to offer. But I didn’t see it. I didn’t see the moment when he stole my heart. But what’s even worse was I allowed him to take it and just when I thought there may actually be something between us, he was gone.
Kolten
I’m not supposed to have a happy ending I’m not supposed to get the girl I’m not supposed to fall in love. I’m not supposed to live the peaceful life. I don’t deserve it after all the things I’ve done but with her I’ve been selfish I took something that belong to her and disappeared , she didn’t know it at the time but it was to protect her. As fate would have it, I’ve got another chance, but when I return to her, selfishly why did you take a shower hot shower relaxed your muscles relaxed hoping that maybe she’s held out or waited I learned that she has a son, my son.
Review:
This book was so different from the first 2. Because they are assassins. The rough life sucks but it’s where they thrive. But this battle is different. Parenthoodand forgiveness. The author did an amazing job of showing all the feelings of a parent. The worry the anxiety the pure terror that comes with being a parent. The way the author describes some of the emotions that Vanessa has gone through were spot on. As a mom I felt all those little things that other non parents just don’t understand. The effort that was displayed by Kolt showed his character development and ability to adapt quite well. The adaptability and interconnection between this book and the others was completely seamless and flowed so well into each other. This book was so different in so many good ways however being an assassin is tough and all but try parenthood lol. And that feeling there was captured perfectly by Ria.
It was only supposed to be a quick fling a bit of fun before I buckled down and started my next journey. Ravenpeak Bay is too small I want more, to do more and explore all that life has to offer. But I didn’t see it. I didn’t see the moment when he stole my heart. But what’s even worse was I allowed him to take it and just when I thought there may actually be something between us, he was gone.
Kolten
I’m not supposed to have a happy ending I’m not supposed to get the girl I’m not supposed to fall in love. I’m not supposed to live the peaceful life. I don’t deserve it after all the things I’ve done but with her I’ve been selfish I took something that belong to her and disappeared , she didn’t know it at the time but it was to protect her. As fate would have it, I’ve got another chance, but when I return to her, selfishly why did you take a shower hot shower relaxed your muscles relaxed hoping that maybe she’s held out or waited I learned that she has a son, my son.
Review:
This book was so different from the first 2. Because they are assassins. The rough life sucks but it’s where they thrive. But this battle is different. Parenthoodand forgiveness. The author did an amazing job of showing all the feelings of a parent. The worry the anxiety the pure terror that comes with being a parent. The way the author describes some of the emotions that Vanessa has gone through were spot on. As a mom I felt all those little things that other non parents just don’t understand. The effort that was displayed by Kolt showed his character development and ability to adapt quite well. The adaptability and interconnection between this book and the others was completely seamless and flowed so well into each other. This book was so different in so many good ways however being an assassin is tough and all but try parenthood lol. And that feeling there was captured perfectly by Ria.
February 20, 2024
'𝐁𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐡 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐬𝐞 𝐝𝐚𝐫𝐤 𝐬𝐤𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐰𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐞 𝐰𝐞 𝐛𝐞𝐠𝐚𝐧 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐢𝐭'𝐬 𝐨𝐧𝐥𝐲 𝐭𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭, 𝐢𝐭'𝐬 𝐰𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐞 𝐈 𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐦𝐢𝐬𝐞𝐝 𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐦𝐲 𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫'
𝔸ℝℂ ℝ𝔼𝕍𝕀𝔼𝕎
𝑩𝒆𝒏𝒆𝒂𝒕𝒉 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒔𝒆 𝒅𝒂𝒓𝒌 𝒔𝒌𝒊𝒆𝒔 by @authorriawilde
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Out of all the Avery brothers kolt has ultimately stolen my heart.. this for me was the most heart wrenching story of this series 😭😭
Kolt and Nessa stumbled upon each other by accident but fall for each other quicker than a storm rolls in. Their story is full of tension, heartbreak and longing that it seeps from every page of their story that you can't help but want to rip the pages out just to see if they can keep ahold of each other🥺 nothing in life is that simple though..
Vanessa works with her sister at the dinner in ravens peak which they took over from their parents, she's always dreamed of going to college and becoming a doctor but she's never found the time to leave the little island that has always been her home. Knowing everyone on the island comes in useful when she meets the Illusive kolten Avery, his imposing height and handsome face draw Nessa to him like the stars in the sky, she's never met such a man who makes her heart race with every glance she steals at him but if she knew then what the future held she'd openly look at him all night.
Kolten is the eldest Avery brother, he's closed off and doesn't talk much but when he arrives at the island his life changes him for the better. Being a part of the organisation means he can be cold and emotionless at times. Hes always felt like he doesn't belong and even though he's an Avery he doesn't feel like it some time. when he catches the first glimpse of Nessa on the beach he can't resist the pull he feels towards her. The more time they spend together the more he craves what he can't have.
'𝐒𝐡𝐞 𝐢𝐬 𝐦𝐲 𝐦𝐨𝐨𝐧. 𝐌𝐲 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐬. 𝐌𝐲 𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫'
Every story has it's own hurdles to overcome and Kolt and Vanessa have more than anyone should have to deal with 🥺
𝐅𝐨𝐫 𝐚𝐬 𝐥𝐨𝐧𝐠 𝐚𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐧𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭 𝐥𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐦𝐨𝐨𝐧 𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐬, 𝐈 𝐚𝐦 𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐬
𝔸ℝℂ ℝ𝔼𝕍𝕀𝔼𝕎
𝑩𝒆𝒏𝒆𝒂𝒕𝒉 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒔𝒆 𝒅𝒂𝒓𝒌 𝒔𝒌𝒊𝒆𝒔 by @authorriawilde
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Out of all the Avery brothers kolt has ultimately stolen my heart.. this for me was the most heart wrenching story of this series 😭😭
Kolt and Nessa stumbled upon each other by accident but fall for each other quicker than a storm rolls in. Their story is full of tension, heartbreak and longing that it seeps from every page of their story that you can't help but want to rip the pages out just to see if they can keep ahold of each other🥺 nothing in life is that simple though..
Vanessa works with her sister at the dinner in ravens peak which they took over from their parents, she's always dreamed of going to college and becoming a doctor but she's never found the time to leave the little island that has always been her home. Knowing everyone on the island comes in useful when she meets the Illusive kolten Avery, his imposing height and handsome face draw Nessa to him like the stars in the sky, she's never met such a man who makes her heart race with every glance she steals at him but if she knew then what the future held she'd openly look at him all night.
Kolten is the eldest Avery brother, he's closed off and doesn't talk much but when he arrives at the island his life changes him for the better. Being a part of the organisation means he can be cold and emotionless at times. Hes always felt like he doesn't belong and even though he's an Avery he doesn't feel like it some time. when he catches the first glimpse of Nessa on the beach he can't resist the pull he feels towards her. The more time they spend together the more he craves what he can't have.
'𝐒𝐡𝐞 𝐢𝐬 𝐦𝐲 𝐦𝐨𝐨𝐧. 𝐌𝐲 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐬. 𝐌𝐲 𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫'
Every story has it's own hurdles to overcome and Kolt and Vanessa have more than anyone should have to deal with 🥺
𝐅𝐨𝐫 𝐚𝐬 𝐥𝐨𝐧𝐠 𝐚𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐧𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭 𝐥𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐦𝐨𝐨𝐧 𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐬, 𝐈 𝐚𝐦 𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐬
March 2, 2024
Oh wow. What is it about a tortured “I’m can’t have her” “I’m not good enough for her” MC that punches me right in the gut. Add in some protective dark alphahole with a dash of gooey center and Kolt is a perfect recipe for a delicious intense Hero.
This is book 3 in a series and is a connected standalone. You can read this before the others but I highly recommend reading the books 1 and 2 as the brothers’ stories give the foundation of their backgrounds and adds a lot to Kolts backstory. I was so excited to get this book. I’ve listened to 1 and 2 and couldn’t wait for Kolton story in the 3rd audio so I read it ahead of the audio. I had a feeling in the other books that Vanessa was going to be Kolt’s HEA.
We start when they met, which takes place in the timeline before book 1 so we understand their history. Kolt can’t allow himself to be with her as his life is too complicated and dangerous. Yet he can’t stop himself from falling for her. He makes the hard choice to stay away for good so he can protect her and his family. Vanessa thought she just wanted a fling before heading to medical school. Her strong feelings for Kolt were not what she planned. Several years later she has abandoned her studies to take care of their son. And Kolt has resurfaced wanting to make amends and see if there are still feelings. But where does that leave her and her boy? And will Kolt decide to stay this time?
Vanessa is one of those heroines that I love, strong yet compassionate. Loves hard and protects until the end. She had me crying when she poured her heart out with honesty, sharing her wariness about their future. Ria Wilde ripped me apart and put me back together again in this heart wrenching love story. And I fell hard for Kolt, in every step of his journey back to her heart. I think I really need an epilogue or a mini novella about how all 3 couples are doing in the future.
This is book 3 in a series and is a connected standalone. You can read this before the others but I highly recommend reading the books 1 and 2 as the brothers’ stories give the foundation of their backgrounds and adds a lot to Kolts backstory. I was so excited to get this book. I’ve listened to 1 and 2 and couldn’t wait for Kolton story in the 3rd audio so I read it ahead of the audio. I had a feeling in the other books that Vanessa was going to be Kolt’s HEA.
We start when they met, which takes place in the timeline before book 1 so we understand their history. Kolt can’t allow himself to be with her as his life is too complicated and dangerous. Yet he can’t stop himself from falling for her. He makes the hard choice to stay away for good so he can protect her and his family. Vanessa thought she just wanted a fling before heading to medical school. Her strong feelings for Kolt were not what she planned. Several years later she has abandoned her studies to take care of their son. And Kolt has resurfaced wanting to make amends and see if there are still feelings. But where does that leave her and her boy? And will Kolt decide to stay this time?
Vanessa is one of those heroines that I love, strong yet compassionate. Loves hard and protects until the end. She had me crying when she poured her heart out with honesty, sharing her wariness about their future. Ria Wilde ripped me apart and put me back together again in this heart wrenching love story. And I fell hard for Kolt, in every step of his journey back to her heart. I think I really need an epilogue or a mini novella about how all 3 couples are doing in the future.
February 24, 2024
This is the third and final book in the Ravenpeak Bay series and I absolutely loved it!!
“Our thing, beneath these dark skies, on this dock, while everyone sleeps.”
💜🔥💜🔥💜🔥💜🔥💜🔥💜🔥💜🔥💜
Vanessa was only hoping for a Spring fling with Kolten. They both were leaving Ravenspeak Bay - Kolten had his secrets and Vanessa was headed to college but it was hard when he left. A year later they spend one night together but Kolten was gone again the next morning.
Three years later Vanessa has a son and is back home when Kolten shows up with his brothers. They both have secrets and a lot to work through. Vanessa has been dealing with a broken heart and knows it is only a matter of time before he leaves again…or is Kolten really back for good?
This has very quickly become one of my favorite series and while I have a soft spot for all three Avery brothers Kolten might just be my favorite! I loved this book so much! I loved the chemistry between Vanessa and Kolten from the minute they met. Their story is a bit of a slow burn but wow is the payoff worth the wait!!
This book was so emotional and really tugged on my heart strings. Vanessa had been struggling and doing her best and I loved how Kolten was immediately all in. The box she kept for him was so touching it brought tears to my eyes when went through it. They both had had to be so strong for so long and I loved how they really began to rely on each other.
I love the Avery brothers and their family and while they give each other a hard time they will always be there for one another. I will miss this entire town of characters!
“There wasn’t and never will be a length I will not go to, to protect you, trouble.”
“Our thing, beneath these dark skies, on this dock, while everyone sleeps.”
💜🔥💜🔥💜🔥💜🔥💜🔥💜🔥💜🔥💜
Vanessa was only hoping for a Spring fling with Kolten. They both were leaving Ravenspeak Bay - Kolten had his secrets and Vanessa was headed to college but it was hard when he left. A year later they spend one night together but Kolten was gone again the next morning.
Three years later Vanessa has a son and is back home when Kolten shows up with his brothers. They both have secrets and a lot to work through. Vanessa has been dealing with a broken heart and knows it is only a matter of time before he leaves again…or is Kolten really back for good?
This has very quickly become one of my favorite series and while I have a soft spot for all three Avery brothers Kolten might just be my favorite! I loved this book so much! I loved the chemistry between Vanessa and Kolten from the minute they met. Their story is a bit of a slow burn but wow is the payoff worth the wait!!
This book was so emotional and really tugged on my heart strings. Vanessa had been struggling and doing her best and I loved how Kolten was immediately all in. The box she kept for him was so touching it brought tears to my eyes when went through it. They both had had to be so strong for so long and I loved how they really began to rely on each other.
I love the Avery brothers and their family and while they give each other a hard time they will always be there for one another. I will miss this entire town of characters!
“There wasn’t and never will be a length I will not go to, to protect you, trouble.”
February 22, 2024
The Avery brothers had me locked into each of their books, but I think Kolten has became my favorite. I loved his whole character & the way he handled himself, plus the way he was with Vanessa on the docks definitely had my heart. If you have read the first two book in this series then you will understand where Kolten was & the career path him & his brothers were into before stepping back. Vanessa is from the small town, so of course she has heard the rumors of the Avery men, but she never expected to fall for the Avery that constantly left. After a while they run into each other again & of course the sexual tension is high especially after what he just witnessed. After a night of pure passion & firsts, Kolten believes it’s best to leave, but if he would have known what he was leaving behind he would have fought harder, but the situation he found himself in was not that easy. When Kolten does return everything smacks him in the face, he not only returns to Vanessa, but also learns about Ethan. The way Kolten gravels & does everything he could possibly do to get his little trouble back will have your heart skipping a beat. I loved this man’s sensitive side when he was with Nessa & Ethan, but he also would hurt & take out anyone that posed a danger to his family. That ending really had me in tears of sadness & then I was crying tears of joy, I absolutely loved these two so much, it was also good to see all the Avery men happy with their women. I would love to see more of Olivia & Malakai’s story though!
February 16, 2024
𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬:
4/5⭐️
3.5/5🔥
𝐓𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐬, 𝐊𝐢𝐧𝐤𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐂𝐖/𝐓𝐖(𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘪𝘯 𝘢𝘯𝘺 𝘱𝘢𝘳𝘵𝘪𝘤𝘶𝘭𝘢𝘳 𝘰𝘳𝘥𝘦𝘳):
MF/dual POV/dark elements/assassin/second chance/secret baby/age gap(11yr)/praise/virgin fmc/
mutual masturbation/murder/violence/attempted assault
𝐓𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐤𝐧𝐨𝐰:
Book 3 of the Ravenpeak Series. While each book can be read as a standalone as each book follows a new couple, it is strongly recommend you read the books in order to get the most of the story and to avoid spoilery situations for prior books.
𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
I loved finally getting Kolten and Vanessa's book. We've come to know Vanessa a bit over the previous two books in the series, but Kolten has been quite elusive... but now all shall be revealed, and what a ride it is.
I knew getting through this one was going to stir all the emotions and that it did. We get all the pieces from the past, followed up by the present and finally the heartwarming happily ever after we were all wishing for. I loved both of these characters and loved the soul deep connection they had.
I will say that I do highly recommend reading these in order. Where this book dives into the past of Kolten and Vanessa, there are also big plot points mentioned from the previous books. I did really enjoy seeing all the Avery brothers under one roof. The was a perfect ending for this series but I would be lying if I said I wasn't secretly obsessing over a Malaki and Olivia book next!
4/5⭐️
3.5/5🔥
𝐓𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐬, 𝐊𝐢𝐧𝐤𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐂𝐖/𝐓𝐖(𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘪𝘯 𝘢𝘯𝘺 𝘱𝘢𝘳𝘵𝘪𝘤𝘶𝘭𝘢𝘳 𝘰𝘳𝘥𝘦𝘳):
MF/dual POV/dark elements/assassin/second chance/secret baby/age gap(11yr)/praise/virgin fmc/
mutual masturbation/murder/violence/attempted assault
𝐓𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐤𝐧𝐨𝐰:
Book 3 of the Ravenpeak Series. While each book can be read as a standalone as each book follows a new couple, it is strongly recommend you read the books in order to get the most of the story and to avoid spoilery situations for prior books.
𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
I loved finally getting Kolten and Vanessa's book. We've come to know Vanessa a bit over the previous two books in the series, but Kolten has been quite elusive... but now all shall be revealed, and what a ride it is.
I knew getting through this one was going to stir all the emotions and that it did. We get all the pieces from the past, followed up by the present and finally the heartwarming happily ever after we were all wishing for. I loved both of these characters and loved the soul deep connection they had.
I will say that I do highly recommend reading these in order. Where this book dives into the past of Kolten and Vanessa, there are also big plot points mentioned from the previous books. I did really enjoy seeing all the Avery brothers under one roof. The was a perfect ending for this series but I would be lying if I said I wasn't secretly obsessing over a Malaki and Olivia book next!
February 20, 2024
💜 𝙱𝚎𝚗𝚎𝚊𝚝𝚑 𝚃𝚑𝚎𝚜𝚎 𝙳𝚊𝚛𝚔 𝚂𝚔𝚒𝚎𝚜 💜
𝚋𝚢 @authorriawilde
🄰🅁🄲 🅁🄴🅅🄸🄴🅆
5/5 ⭐️
2/5 🌶️
𝙱𝚎𝚗𝚎𝚊𝚝𝚑 𝚃𝚑𝚎𝚜𝚎 𝙳𝚊𝚛𝚔 𝚂𝚔𝚒𝚎𝚜 releases 2/22
↓↓
I am torn with this book. I am soooooo happy that we finally have more on the elusive brother Kolten but then I'm equally heartbroken because this is the last book in the series.
I really enjoyed the way that a lot of the beginning of the book was explaining the past between these two. These two had such an instant connection that only grew stronger and stronger. These two had such an amazing love but they definitely had some things to overcome.
Ummm excuse me how dare you put us through that trauma again with Kolten. I was screaming, crying and swearing while reading it.
This one had very very very little information on what happened while he was MIA for those few years buuuuuuuutttttt I feel like its setting it up for her next book 😏 and I can't wait!!!!!
𝘉𝘦𝘯𝘦𝘢𝘵𝘩 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘴𝘦 𝘥𝘢𝘳𝘬 𝘴𝘬𝘪𝘦𝘴 𝘪𝘴 𝘸𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘦 𝘸𝘦 𝘣𝘦𝘨𝘢𝘯 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘪𝘵’𝘴 𝘰𝘯𝘭𝘺 𝘳𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵, 𝘪𝘵’𝘴 𝘸𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘦 𝘐 𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘮𝘪𝘴𝘦 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘮𝘺 𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳.
𝕋𝕣𝕠𝕡𝕖𝕤 / 𝕎𝕙𝕒𝕥 𝕥𝕠 𝔼𝕩𝕡𝕖𝕔𝕥
💜 Obsessed & Morally Grey MMC
💜 He Falls First
💜 Small Town
💜 Age Gap
💜 Secret pregnancy/baby
💜 Right person/wrong time
💜 Friends to Lovers
🏷️
#riawilde #ravenpeakbay #smalltownromance #darkromance #friendstolovers #bookstagram #booktok #romancebooks #romancebookstagram #booktropes #smutbooks #romancereader #arcreaders #bookboyfriendsdoitbetter #spicyromance #smutlovers #igreads #romancebooks #spicyromancebooks #ReadNow #momswhoread
𝚋𝚢 @authorriawilde
🄰🅁🄲 🅁🄴🅅🄸🄴🅆
5/5 ⭐️
2/5 🌶️
𝙱𝚎𝚗𝚎𝚊𝚝𝚑 𝚃𝚑𝚎𝚜𝚎 𝙳𝚊𝚛𝚔 𝚂𝚔𝚒𝚎𝚜 releases 2/22
↓↓
I am torn with this book. I am soooooo happy that we finally have more on the elusive brother Kolten but then I'm equally heartbroken because this is the last book in the series.
I really enjoyed the way that a lot of the beginning of the book was explaining the past between these two. These two had such an instant connection that only grew stronger and stronger. These two had such an amazing love but they definitely had some things to overcome.
Ummm excuse me how dare you put us through that trauma again with Kolten. I was screaming, crying and swearing while reading it.
This one had very very very little information on what happened while he was MIA for those few years buuuuuuuutttttt I feel like its setting it up for her next book 😏 and I can't wait!!!!!
𝘉𝘦𝘯𝘦𝘢𝘵𝘩 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘴𝘦 𝘥𝘢𝘳𝘬 𝘴𝘬𝘪𝘦𝘴 𝘪𝘴 𝘸𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘦 𝘸𝘦 𝘣𝘦𝘨𝘢𝘯 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘪𝘵’𝘴 𝘰𝘯𝘭𝘺 𝘳𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵, 𝘪𝘵’𝘴 𝘸𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘦 𝘐 𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘮𝘪𝘴𝘦 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘮𝘺 𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳.
𝕋𝕣𝕠𝕡𝕖𝕤 / 𝕎𝕙𝕒𝕥 𝕥𝕠 𝔼𝕩𝕡𝕖𝕔𝕥
💜 Obsessed & Morally Grey MMC
💜 He Falls First
💜 Small Town
💜 Age Gap
💜 Secret pregnancy/baby
💜 Right person/wrong time
💜 Friends to Lovers
🏷️
#riawilde #ravenpeakbay #smalltownromance #darkromance #friendstolovers #bookstagram #booktok #romancebooks #romancebookstagram #booktropes #smutbooks #romancereader #arcreaders #bookboyfriendsdoitbetter #spicyromance #smutlovers #igreads #romancebooks #spicyromancebooks #ReadNow #momswhoread
Displaying 1 - 30 of 108 reviews