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Ember Hollow Romance #1
Kindled Hearts
There’s a serial killer in Ember Hollow. Lark Meadows survived him once, but he’ll burn it all down to get her back.
After my best friend was murdered in her bed, I ran from Ember Hollow and never looked back. But nine years later, I’m forced to return to my small town and run into the last person I expected, Reid Ramsey. He’s a local Private Investigator now…and my best friend’s big brother.
Reid has always been a protector, watching out for the ones he loves. As we grow closer, it’s clear how broken he is. He couldn’t save his little sister all those years ago and the guilt crushed him.
Bonded through tragedy, an unexpected spark ignites between us. The burn is slow, but bright and consuming. As we lead each other on the path toward healing, disaster strikes again when a girl goes missing.
Desperate to find her before it’s too late, Reid and I will stop at nothing to discover the truth. The closer we come to solving the case, and the danger escalates, dark shadows from my past finally catch up to me. This time…I don’t know if I’ll make it out of this town alive.
Kindled Hearts is book one in a small town, suspenseful romance series. Each book in the Ember Hollow world stands alone, but are connected by the Ramsey brothers. Follow each brother as they heal past wounds and find their happily ever after!
**All Ember Hollow Romances have plenty of sizzling kisses and intimacy, but the spice is not explicit.
After my best friend was murdered in her bed, I ran from Ember Hollow and never looked back. But nine years later, I’m forced to return to my small town and run into the last person I expected, Reid Ramsey. He’s a local Private Investigator now…and my best friend’s big brother.
Reid has always been a protector, watching out for the ones he loves. As we grow closer, it’s clear how broken he is. He couldn’t save his little sister all those years ago and the guilt crushed him.
Bonded through tragedy, an unexpected spark ignites between us. The burn is slow, but bright and consuming. As we lead each other on the path toward healing, disaster strikes again when a girl goes missing.
Desperate to find her before it’s too late, Reid and I will stop at nothing to discover the truth. The closer we come to solving the case, and the danger escalates, dark shadows from my past finally catch up to me. This time…I don’t know if I’ll make it out of this town alive.
Kindled Hearts is book one in a small town, suspenseful romance series. Each book in the Ember Hollow world stands alone, but are connected by the Ramsey brothers. Follow each brother as they heal past wounds and find their happily ever after!
**All Ember Hollow Romances have plenty of sizzling kisses and intimacy, but the spice is not explicit.
311 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 22, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 73 reviews
December 17, 2025
Poorly written with almost no romance
This writing was heavily repetitive, with certain scenes repeating word-for-word with close proximity. The writing was also very clunky, poorly executed, and poorly edited
I didn't but that these two main characters fell in love after a handful of mostly awkward meetings after having not seen each other in a decade.
The storyline with the main character's mom made almost no sense and i saw the "bad guy" coming from the first few chapters.
Overall this was a hugely disappointing read and this author is definitely not for me.
This writing was heavily repetitive, with certain scenes repeating word-for-word with close proximity. The writing was also very clunky, poorly executed, and poorly edited
I didn't but that these two main characters fell in love after a handful of mostly awkward meetings after having not seen each other in a decade.
The storyline with the main character's mom made almost no sense and i saw the "bad guy" coming from the first few chapters.
Overall this was a hugely disappointing read and this author is definitely not for me.
October 12, 2024
LOVED IT!
I loved this book! It was a good and nice read and I read it in a few hours. There were some plot twists that totally surprised me because I wasn’t expecting that, but it was so good! ❤️
I loved this book! It was a good and nice read and I read it in a few hours. There were some plot twists that totally surprised me because I wasn’t expecting that, but it was so good! ❤️
February 28, 2024
3.5 Stars
Enjoyable read, with an undeniable chemistry and suspense weaved in.
Enjoyable read, with an undeniable chemistry and suspense weaved in.
April 9, 2024
Who can resist a heartwarming romance. Falling in love with your best friend’s brother is absolutely fantastic. Will this work out for them. Ready for the next adventure.
July 18, 2025
Yikes
This was incredibly dull and boring. I could hardly force myself to finish it. For a romantic thriller there is almost no tension in this book. They didn't do anything to actually investigate anything. The killer was painfully obvious from the beginning. Just a boring mess that I'm so glad I'll never think of again.
This was incredibly dull and boring. I could hardly force myself to finish it. For a romantic thriller there is almost no tension in this book. They didn't do anything to actually investigate anything. The killer was painfully obvious from the beginning. Just a boring mess that I'm so glad I'll never think of again.
September 14, 2024
This book is really, really good and I enjoyed reading it immensely. There are so many twists and turns that I am still trying to figure out who the Serial Killer is. The characters are great together and the story is very well written. I highly recommend to you all this book and the next one go together, Kindled Hearts and Splintered Memories both are very good. After you read both of these books we both will then know who the serial killer is.
We open with the planning of a Halloween Party that is being held by Thea Ramsey, Delainey Hawthorn and Lark Meadows. These girls all attend Ember Hollow College and they are roommates in a house they rented for the last two years of college. Lark and Thea are best friends, closer then some sisters are especially since Thea has 5 older brothers. Delainey is a very good friend to them both. Lark is usually very quiet and soft spoken so she is not too keen on parties but her roommates are excited enough for her and them too. During the party Lark is sitting on the couch crocheting while the others party until Thea talks her into playing a drinking game with them. The party gets loud and a bit out of hand and the police show up. This is where Reid Ramsey, Thea's youngest older brother breaks up the party and sends everyone home assuring the police men that they will not have to come back and give them a ticket. Lark not being too much of a drinker is in the bathroom trying not to get sick talking to Reid. Everyone else has left and after they pick up the house a bit Delainey and Thea both head up to bed. Lark went to bed and then came back to spend the night in the bathroom with towels made into a bed on the floor, as her stomach is still a little queasy. Early the next morning Lark hears a noise that wakes her up and she thinks she sees someone leaving the house. She goes up to check on the girls and finds them both stabbed in their beds. In Thea's room she sinks to the floor in a state of shock and this is where Reid finds her about 3 to 4 hours later. The town is outraged that she was in shock instead of getting some help for her roommates maybe she would have had a chance at saving them. Finally Lark could not stand all of the stress anymore so she left town.
Nine years later her mother was involved in an accident so she returns home to help her out. One of the first people she runs into is Reid Ramsey, one of Thea's brothers, and he now along with his brothers runs a Private Investigator and Security Company. Lark and Reid start spending time together trying to solve the crime committed with Thea and Delainey. Reid has been a little lost as he still blames himself for not saving Thea. Bonded by tragedy an unexpected spark ignites between them. They work on finding the killer and healing themselves in the process.
I got this book from Book Sirens and will be happy to leave my review.
We open with the planning of a Halloween Party that is being held by Thea Ramsey, Delainey Hawthorn and Lark Meadows. These girls all attend Ember Hollow College and they are roommates in a house they rented for the last two years of college. Lark and Thea are best friends, closer then some sisters are especially since Thea has 5 older brothers. Delainey is a very good friend to them both. Lark is usually very quiet and soft spoken so she is not too keen on parties but her roommates are excited enough for her and them too. During the party Lark is sitting on the couch crocheting while the others party until Thea talks her into playing a drinking game with them. The party gets loud and a bit out of hand and the police show up. This is where Reid Ramsey, Thea's youngest older brother breaks up the party and sends everyone home assuring the police men that they will not have to come back and give them a ticket. Lark not being too much of a drinker is in the bathroom trying not to get sick talking to Reid. Everyone else has left and after they pick up the house a bit Delainey and Thea both head up to bed. Lark went to bed and then came back to spend the night in the bathroom with towels made into a bed on the floor, as her stomach is still a little queasy. Early the next morning Lark hears a noise that wakes her up and she thinks she sees someone leaving the house. She goes up to check on the girls and finds them both stabbed in their beds. In Thea's room she sinks to the floor in a state of shock and this is where Reid finds her about 3 to 4 hours later. The town is outraged that she was in shock instead of getting some help for her roommates maybe she would have had a chance at saving them. Finally Lark could not stand all of the stress anymore so she left town.
Nine years later her mother was involved in an accident so she returns home to help her out. One of the first people she runs into is Reid Ramsey, one of Thea's brothers, and he now along with his brothers runs a Private Investigator and Security Company. Lark and Reid start spending time together trying to solve the crime committed with Thea and Delainey. Reid has been a little lost as he still blames himself for not saving Thea. Bonded by tragedy an unexpected spark ignites between them. They work on finding the killer and healing themselves in the process.
I got this book from Book Sirens and will be happy to leave my review.
March 17, 2024
This is book one in The Ember Hollow Romance series and it Reid and Lark’s story and omg what a great start to a new series. Lark is a shy, quiet and withdrawn person who hates parties but loves to croquet so when her best friend Thea who is also like a sister to her wants to have a Halloween Party with them being in college and also being roommates Lark goes with it but still keeps to herself but what Lark didn’t know is that tonight would be the last day that she spends with Thea because she is murdered in her bed along with there other roommate leaving Lark the only one alive which will throw Lark and Thea’s family into total chaos, grief, devastation and needing answers but after a while Lark decides to leave Ember Hollow and all the bad memories behind even though she knows that she will never forget that night. Nine years later and Lark is forced to return to Ember Hollow because her mom has had a accident and needs help but Lark knows that even though this place holds many good memories it is also overshadowed by the loss of her best friend Thea and Larks nightmares. Reid is now a private investigator for their family security company but he has never forgot what happened that night to his sister Thea and the guilt he feels at not being able to save her but they have been unable to find out who did this and he knows that he will never give up trying to find the person responsible who took away Thea’s life before she had a chance to live it but what they all don’t know is that the person responsible is closer than they think and is watching to make sure that they are not exposed. When another woman is missing it is down to Reid to help find her before it is too late so now they are on a race against time and with Lark back in town and offering to help in any way that she can but then danger arrives yet again and Lark is now in the crosshairs and Reid and his brothers are determined to protect her and find the person involved and bring them to justice but will they find her in time or is it already too late. Wow this book takes you on the biggest rollercoaster ride of your life and will have you on the edge of your seat while holding your breath but make sure that you also have the tissues ready because your emotions will be all over the place while reading this book. You really need to pick up this book and come along for a action packed ride that is full of twists and turns that will have you turning the pages because it is so addictive. I can’t wait to read the next book in this amazing series.
January 31, 2026
♡ Contemporary
♡ Romantic suspense
♡ Small town
♡ Protector
♡ Brothers Security Company
♡ Private investigator hero
♡ Slow-burn
♡ Best friend's brother
♡ Page-turner
♡ Fun cast of supporting – secondary characters that add to the story and development
Kindled Hearts is the first book in the Ember Hollow series. The story is a thrilling rollercoaster ride with intense suspense, emotional depth, and swoon-worthy romance. With its complex characters, intricate plot, and heart-wrenching moments, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat. Lark, a shy college student, reluctantly attends a Halloween party with her best friend, Thea, but it turns out to be their last night together as her best friend is murdered and Lark is the only survivor. She is left to grapple with the aftermath of the tragedy and pick up the pieces. Nine years later, Lark returns to her hometown of Ember Hollow to help her mother after a family accident. However, she knows that the town holds many painful memories, especially for her and her friend Thea's brother, Reid, and because there are people who still blame her. Reid is now a private investigator working for the family's security company, still haunted by guilt for not being able to save his sister and her murder, but also determined to uncover the truth and find the person responsible. The chemistry between Lark and Reid is palpable, but mutual grief and guilt are not letting them move forward and admit their feelings. When another woman goes missing, Reid and Lark start working together, putting Lark in danger. Reid struggles with his feelings for Lark and the desire to keep her safe. The connection between the characters, their emotional journey and relatable challenges is what makes this book truly special. It is well-written, enjoyable and a fantastic start to a new series.
♡ Romantic suspense
♡ Small town
♡ Protector
♡ Brothers Security Company
♡ Private investigator hero
♡ Slow-burn
♡ Best friend's brother
♡ Page-turner
♡ Fun cast of supporting – secondary characters that add to the story and development
Kindled Hearts is the first book in the Ember Hollow series. The story is a thrilling rollercoaster ride with intense suspense, emotional depth, and swoon-worthy romance. With its complex characters, intricate plot, and heart-wrenching moments, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat. Lark, a shy college student, reluctantly attends a Halloween party with her best friend, Thea, but it turns out to be their last night together as her best friend is murdered and Lark is the only survivor. She is left to grapple with the aftermath of the tragedy and pick up the pieces. Nine years later, Lark returns to her hometown of Ember Hollow to help her mother after a family accident. However, she knows that the town holds many painful memories, especially for her and her friend Thea's brother, Reid, and because there are people who still blame her. Reid is now a private investigator working for the family's security company, still haunted by guilt for not being able to save his sister and her murder, but also determined to uncover the truth and find the person responsible. The chemistry between Lark and Reid is palpable, but mutual grief and guilt are not letting them move forward and admit their feelings. When another woman goes missing, Reid and Lark start working together, putting Lark in danger. Reid struggles with his feelings for Lark and the desire to keep her safe. The connection between the characters, their emotional journey and relatable challenges is what makes this book truly special. It is well-written, enjoyable and a fantastic start to a new series.
March 1, 2024
I swear, Abbey is out to get me right in the feels with every book she writes! I love them all so much that it's hard to say I have a favorite of hers, but there was definitely something about this one that is keeping its hold on me and I can't even pinpoint exactly what it is about this book because it all came together seamlessly and made such an incredible overall experience.
Lark is left as the only survivor from a night when she and her friends were attacked. She left town shortly after but is now back and the chemistry between her and her murdered best friend's brother, Reid is so hauntingly beautiful that I will admit it had me tearing up a time or two. He clearly loves her very much and always has but there is so much grief between the two of them now that they have to work through.
Add to that there is a strong mix of people that are either happy to see Lark back or still blame her, and most of them belong in the latter category. But while Reid doesn't know the full story of what happened on the night his sister died, he knows that Lark was a victim as well and is just grateful he didn't also lose her. But the killer is still out there and they aren't done.
This kept me on the edge of my seat and had me swooning the whole time too. Talk about varying emotions! Now that Abbey Easton has me hooked on this series I am going to struggle with the wait for the next one. But it does give me time to go back and reread her other novels. I strongly recommend this book and this author! I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Lark is left as the only survivor from a night when she and her friends were attacked. She left town shortly after but is now back and the chemistry between her and her murdered best friend's brother, Reid is so hauntingly beautiful that I will admit it had me tearing up a time or two. He clearly loves her very much and always has but there is so much grief between the two of them now that they have to work through.
Add to that there is a strong mix of people that are either happy to see Lark back or still blame her, and most of them belong in the latter category. But while Reid doesn't know the full story of what happened on the night his sister died, he knows that Lark was a victim as well and is just grateful he didn't also lose her. But the killer is still out there and they aren't done.
This kept me on the edge of my seat and had me swooning the whole time too. Talk about varying emotions! Now that Abbey Easton has me hooked on this series I am going to struggle with the wait for the next one. But it does give me time to go back and reread her other novels. I strongly recommend this book and this author! I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 25, 2024
Lark hasnt been back to her hometown since she left 9 years ago after her best friend and roomate was viciously murdered. Now she has to try to sort through some new feelings for her best friend's brother as they both try to overcome their long term grief. This town is full of both good and horrible memories for Lark but when another girl goes missing, will things once again take a sinister turn?
I have not read any of Easton's work but really enjoyed this book. Grief is such a huge thing to go through and no two people deal with it the same way. I felt Lark and Reid's grief explicitly. Easton has made this feeling so authentic while also not taking anything away from the plot. Lark is such a strong but believable character and Reid is the perfect mix of strong protector and anguished brother. I was not able to anticipate what was going to happen until just before it did and found it really hard to stop reading at any stage. A thoroughly enjoyable read and I can't wait to read more from this author. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book from BookSirens. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
I have not read any of Easton's work but really enjoyed this book. Grief is such a huge thing to go through and no two people deal with it the same way. I felt Lark and Reid's grief explicitly. Easton has made this feeling so authentic while also not taking anything away from the plot. Lark is such a strong but believable character and Reid is the perfect mix of strong protector and anguished brother. I was not able to anticipate what was going to happen until just before it did and found it really hard to stop reading at any stage. A thoroughly enjoyable read and I can't wait to read more from this author. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book from BookSirens. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
March 16, 2024
When Lark was a teenager at college she went through hell when her best friend and room mate were killed after a party. Nine years later she is back in Ember Hollow, her mother needs help after an accident. Reid was Larks best friend Thea's older brother, he was there the night of the party and again in the morning when he discovered his sister dead and Lark a mess. Not everyone is happy that Lark is back in town. She starts to receive nasty text messages and notes. Reid is haunted by the loss of his little sister and determind to protect Lark. As these two spend time together and feelings grow, can they help each other heal from the past. Kindled Hearts is a fantastic read the suspense is good and Reid is a swoon worthy hero. Be prepared to not want to put this book down. I can't wait to read the next book in this series. Small towns and romantic suspense are a wining combination in my opinion. Loved Reids family they were so welcoming and didnt blame Lark at all for what happened.
I couldn't stand Lark's mother she was very manipulative. Highly recommended for fans of romantic suspense. ARC received from Book Sirens, this is my voluntary review.
I couldn't stand Lark's mother she was very manipulative. Highly recommended for fans of romantic suspense. ARC received from Book Sirens, this is my voluntary review.
January 22, 2025
By any means this is a typical best friend's brother romance, sadness is what you get from the first chapters.
I really liked this book because it's not only a story to find love with the least expected person but also a journey for both MC to forgive themselves and a lesson that grief is something you learn to live with because is a feeling that won't go away no matter how many years passed.
Lark and Reid together make sense together even though it could feel a bit rushed for some people.
This book is perfect for those who want a slow romance with a bit of suspense (& no spicy scenes).
At least for me, I could see two plot twists from the beginning but that didn't change my experience reading the story on the contrary I was a bit excited I was right 🦋🦋 what I didn't liked was it feel inconclusive at the end with the "resolution" of the case as it leaves a loose end about what happens to one of the guys involved.
For some reason when I started reading I thought about the Idaho 4 case as the book has some similarities, not everything but I think for me it helped me to see this story as something that could sadly happen in real life .
I really liked this book because it's not only a story to find love with the least expected person but also a journey for both MC to forgive themselves and a lesson that grief is something you learn to live with because is a feeling that won't go away no matter how many years passed.
Lark and Reid together make sense together even though it could feel a bit rushed for some people.
This book is perfect for those who want a slow romance with a bit of suspense (& no spicy scenes).
At least for me, I could see two plot twists from the beginning but that didn't change my experience reading the story on the contrary I was a bit excited I was right 🦋🦋 what I didn't liked was it feel inconclusive at the end with the "resolution" of the case as it leaves a loose end about what happens to one of the guys involved.
For some reason when I started reading I thought about the Idaho 4 case as the book has some similarities, not everything but I think for me it helped me to see this story as something that could sadly happen in real life .
August 9, 2024
There’s a serial killer in Ember Hollow. Lark Meadows survived him once, but he’ll burn it all down to get her back.
After my best friend was murdered in her bed, I ran from Ember Hollow and never looked back. But nine years later, I’m forced to return to my small town and run into the last person I expected, Reid Ramsey. He’s a local Private Investigator now…and my best friend’s big brother.
Reid has always been a protector, watching out for the ones he loves. As we grow closer, it’s clear how broken he is. He couldn’t save his little sister all those years ago and the guilt crushed him.
Bonded through tragedy, an unexpected spark ignites between us. The burn is slow, but bright and consuming. As we lead each other on the path toward healing, disaster strikes again when a girl goes missing.
Desperate to find her before it’s too late, Reid and I will stop at nothing to discover the truth. The closer we come to solving the case, and the danger escalates, dark shadows from my past finally catch up to me. This time…I don’t know if I’ll make it out of this town alive.
This book is a small town, best friends brother romance, where he falls first this book is definitely for you
There were some tense scenes, however I loved reading about Lark and Reid’s happy after ending. I look forward to reading the next instalment in this series. This was the first book by this author I have read.
Definitely look forward to reading more by Abbey.
After my best friend was murdered in her bed, I ran from Ember Hollow and never looked back. But nine years later, I’m forced to return to my small town and run into the last person I expected, Reid Ramsey. He’s a local Private Investigator now…and my best friend’s big brother.
Reid has always been a protector, watching out for the ones he loves. As we grow closer, it’s clear how broken he is. He couldn’t save his little sister all those years ago and the guilt crushed him.
Bonded through tragedy, an unexpected spark ignites between us. The burn is slow, but bright and consuming. As we lead each other on the path toward healing, disaster strikes again when a girl goes missing.
Desperate to find her before it’s too late, Reid and I will stop at nothing to discover the truth. The closer we come to solving the case, and the danger escalates, dark shadows from my past finally catch up to me. This time…I don’t know if I’ll make it out of this town alive.
This book is a small town, best friends brother romance, where he falls first this book is definitely for you
There were some tense scenes, however I loved reading about Lark and Reid’s happy after ending. I look forward to reading the next instalment in this series. This was the first book by this author I have read.
Definitely look forward to reading more by Abbey.
July 19, 2024
This is so much more than a mystery romance ❤️
This is way much more than a mystery romance! It’s about grief and loss and healing from it. Showing how hard it can be to get over something as tragic as what happened to Thea. Lark and Reid falling in love made me feel so warm inside. I can’t imaging how hard it was for her. from having a normal life and a sister and a roomate to being the lone survivor of a mass murder. barely escaping death, seeing your friend killed that way. then having to be at her funeral and all you had left was your mother. the whole town turning their back. hating you, accusing you. and then moving away for any and all support systems….And the twist at the end!!!!!!! I was starting to put puzzle pieces together earlier in the book but having it all confirmed was such a shock.
If you want a great murder mystery, characters dealing with grief, with romance this is the book for you
This is way much more than a mystery romance! It’s about grief and loss and healing from it. Showing how hard it can be to get over something as tragic as what happened to Thea. Lark and Reid falling in love made me feel so warm inside. I can’t imaging how hard it was for her. from having a normal life and a sister and a roomate to being the lone survivor of a mass murder. barely escaping death, seeing your friend killed that way. then having to be at her funeral and all you had left was your mother. the whole town turning their back. hating you, accusing you. and then moving away for any and all support systems….And the twist at the end!!!!!!! I was starting to put puzzle pieces together earlier in the book but having it all confirmed was such a shock.
If you want a great murder mystery, characters dealing with grief, with romance this is the book for you
September 4, 2024
This book is an emotional landmine. It is also suspense-filled and edge of your seat thrilling.
Lark and Reid are both haunted by the same loss, the murder of Reid's sister who was Lark's best friend. They share a common thread which should bond them together, but they both need some healing.
As they work on a current case together, they hope to find some semblance of peace while trying to find a missing girl. Reid is a protector in the strongest sense of the word, which is what shattered him so much more after his sister was killed.
This book has a captivating plotline which will suck you in. The characters are engaging and easy to imagine them in your mind. The stakes are high and lives and hearts are on the line. If you enjoy a small town romantic suspense, you will like this one.
Thank you to BookSirens and the author for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Lark and Reid are both haunted by the same loss, the murder of Reid's sister who was Lark's best friend. They share a common thread which should bond them together, but they both need some healing.
As they work on a current case together, they hope to find some semblance of peace while trying to find a missing girl. Reid is a protector in the strongest sense of the word, which is what shattered him so much more after his sister was killed.
This book has a captivating plotline which will suck you in. The characters are engaging and easy to imagine them in your mind. The stakes are high and lives and hearts are on the line. If you enjoy a small town romantic suspense, you will like this one.
Thank you to BookSirens and the author for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 12, 2024
Kindled Hearts is the great start to a stand-alone, but interconnected series based in Ember Hollow. Abbey Easton did a great job crafting characters and a plot that draws you in!
I fell in love with Lark who comes home years after tragedy struck to realize there's still a connection with her best friend's - the issue - her best friend was murdered and she's still alive. Lark should be jaded-she's earned the right, but instead, she's loving and kind a special kind of strength I couldn't help but adore.
Easton did a great job at tying up the ends enough to make this a satisfying ending for Lark and Reid's story yet leaves you wanting to learn more about the mystery thread that's loose with the Shadow Stalker. I can't wait to read the next book!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I fell in love with Lark who comes home years after tragedy struck to realize there's still a connection with her best friend's - the issue - her best friend was murdered and she's still alive. Lark should be jaded-she's earned the right, but instead, she's loving and kind a special kind of strength I couldn't help but adore.
Easton did a great job at tying up the ends enough to make this a satisfying ending for Lark and Reid's story yet leaves you wanting to learn more about the mystery thread that's loose with the Shadow Stalker. I can't wait to read the next book!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 6, 2024
Lark and Reid's story is the first book in the Ember Falls series and wow what a story it is. It's heart wrenching, the things they've both lived through. Lark left town, broken and feeling shunned by her hometown, after her best friend Thea and their roommate were murdered. She's back in town to help her mother and counting down the days till she can leave when she runs into Reid, Thea's older brother. Reid has carried so much guilt after the death of Thea. He's always felt he should have done more to protect her. He starts to feel more than friendship but there's a threat lurking in Ember Falls and he's afraid he can't keep her safe. Suspense, romance, family and emotions that the tug at your heartstrings. I can't wait for book two. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 18, 2026
This was an engaging romantic suspense with plenty of twists, danger, and a slow-building romance. Nearly a decade after her best friend was murdered, Lark returns to Ember Hollow, a town that never forgave her and was quick to turn on her after the tragedy.
Reid, her best friend's older brother, is now a private investigator still carrying the guilt of the past. His fear that he couldn't protect Lark led him to push her away and urge her to leave town, convinced it was the only way to keep her safe.
I had my suspicions about the mystery, and while the twist confirmed them, it was still satisfying to see everything fall into place. Surprising, but not completely unexpected.
A blend of suspense, unresolved grief, and second-chance feelings set against a town still haunted by its past.
I received an review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Reid, her best friend's older brother, is now a private investigator still carrying the guilt of the past. His fear that he couldn't protect Lark led him to push her away and urge her to leave town, convinced it was the only way to keep her safe.
I had my suspicions about the mystery, and while the twist confirmed them, it was still satisfying to see everything fall into place. Surprising, but not completely unexpected.
A blend of suspense, unresolved grief, and second-chance feelings set against a town still haunted by its past.
I received an review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 19, 2026
I really wanted to like this book as it has basically everything that I like to read about (suspense, mystery, romance). Which I liked however it wasn’t the best thing I’d ever read.
Overall, the storyline was good but got a little predictable (like I had figured out who killed her roommates and that it wasn’t connected).
The ending also felt SOOOOOOOOO rushed. Like all of a sudden she’s getting saved, then the next page she’s given a statement and released from the hospital AND THEN it jumps to two months later.
I know that this is part of a series so I am thinking the “shadow stalker” will be a big part of the next book but I wish it could be more interconnected with this book considering he is claiming to be Lark’s biological father and the whole butterflies being the mark and how it relates to Lark, etc.
Overall, the storyline was good but got a little predictable (like I had figured out who killed her roommates and that it wasn’t connected).
The ending also felt SOOOOOOOOO rushed. Like all of a sudden she’s getting saved, then the next page she’s given a statement and released from the hospital AND THEN it jumps to two months later.
I know that this is part of a series so I am thinking the “shadow stalker” will be a big part of the next book but I wish it could be more interconnected with this book considering he is claiming to be Lark’s biological father and the whole butterflies being the mark and how it relates to Lark, etc.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 6, 2024
i find the book rather long-winded. additionally, towards the end the book felt very rush. and honestly, i don't really get the whole story about the guy who murdered his girlfriend who is also the heroine's best friend. i felt that the things he is saying is very choppy, so i don't really get the whole picture of why he murdered her.
then the process of the hero saving the heroine was kind of anti-climatic. there wasn't any action or anything since the main culprit have disappeared and the heroine was just tied to a chair and waiting for people to save her. so the book kind of ended in a cliffhanger since the culprit wasn't caught.
i probably wouldn't be continuing the series as it wasn't my cup of tea.
then the process of the hero saving the heroine was kind of anti-climatic. there wasn't any action or anything since the main culprit have disappeared and the heroine was just tied to a chair and waiting for people to save her. so the book kind of ended in a cliffhanger since the culprit wasn't caught.
i probably wouldn't be continuing the series as it wasn't my cup of tea.
March 25, 2024
This is a great start to the author's new series. Lark and Reid both feel broken, with bad memories and guilt feelings left from the murder of Thea, Lark's best friend and Reid's sister. Not everyone is glad to see Lark back in Ember Hollow after a long absence.Reid seems to be quite welcoming, with the two of them becoming close when a young woman disappears. The sparks are flying between them, and they make a terrific couple. Her mother - just wow, and not in a good way. His family has always made up for shortcomings in Lark's family life, and his niece, Hailey, is the cutest thing ever. I really enjoyed reading this book, and am looking forward to the next one. I received an advance review copy, and this is my honest review.
March 26, 2024
Kindled Hearts is a fast paced serial killer mystery combined with a romance. The dual timelines of Lark’s college days and her present day return to Ember Hollow flowed smoothly for me and I got hooked by the story line quickly. I became invested in the relationship between Lark & Reid (the brother of her former roommate) but I did feel like their romance blossomed at warp speed. It distracted me a little but I was rooting for them nonetheless.
In regards to the mystery side of the novel, I did not see the ending coming at all! I I appreciate a murder mystery where i don’t anticipate the ending.
I look forward to reading more of Ember Hollow series!
I am grateful that I was able to read an advanced review copy and I am glad to provide my honest review.
In regards to the mystery side of the novel, I did not see the ending coming at all! I I appreciate a murder mystery where i don’t anticipate the ending.
I look forward to reading more of Ember Hollow series!
I am grateful that I was able to read an advanced review copy and I am glad to provide my honest review.
April 3, 2024
Wow good book!, This was my first but not last Abbey Easton book. It was a great read that kept my flipping the pages as quick as I possibly could. Lark was a person who went to sleep one night and woke up in a horrible situation of not knowing who killed her two roommates. She left town when people blamed her for the lack of information, she was able to provide. They never thought that the indescribable shock of waking up to your best friend being dead and you not knowing how or who killed them. Loved the slow burn between her and the older brother of her dead best friend as they discovered the love they have and have to say Reids asking was very well done. Great book and will continue to read this author as this is a wonderful book with a HEA.
March 15, 2024
Lark and her best friend, Thea, have a party, but then something terrible happens, and there are two murders, which, nine years later, still haven't been solved. Reid is Thea's brother and Lark had a crush on him years ago, and it appears she still does! Then a girl goes missing and when found seems to have the same marks as the two girls nine years ago. Is it a copycat, or are the murders nine years ago the copycat? Is Lark remembering a good thing or dangerous for her?
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
A great romantic suspense from Abbey. Loved it!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
A great romantic suspense from Abbey. Loved it!
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April 4, 2024WOW what a great book to start this series!! Intense, suspenseful, tragic with such heartbreaking events, but moments that will build you back slowly. Lark and Reid will capture your heart their chemistry is undeniable but their grief and heartache of losing Thea is felt in the writing will tug at your heart. Part of the community accepts Thea, the other blames her..I struggled with those people judging her. The writing is really so amazing you will fund yourself lost in this world… feeling and connecting to these people…
I received this as an advanced review copy for free, am leaving my honest review voluntarily.
I received this as an advanced review copy for free, am leaving my honest review voluntarily.
August 26, 2024
An absolutely wonderful page-turner! I loved everything about this book. The story was suspenseful and emotional. Abbey Easton had managed to make me cry for the first time in months with the story of the beautiful friendship between Lark and Thea and the violent, devastating end of it. The impact it had on Lark and on Thea's family broke my heart.
I couldn't put the book down because I was so eager to learn who's the killer and to see how the relationship between Lark and Reid progressed.
Not one flaw in this story. The characters came alive in my mind easily, and the writing was seamless.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I couldn't put the book down because I was so eager to learn who's the killer and to see how the relationship between Lark and Reid progressed.
Not one flaw in this story. The characters came alive in my mind easily, and the writing was seamless.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 12, 2024
Fabulous:
What an awesome start to what I imagine is going to be a stellar series. There was some suspense and drama alongside plenty of emotion with all the feels. I enjoyed the strong family bonds and getting to know some of the small town characters. Lark and Reid made a wonderful couple and I enjoyed seeing them interact and reconnect.
Although some of the mystery will be carrying on into the next book, this was still definitely a standalone and there wasn't a cliffhanger.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review. All opinions expressed are solely my own.
What an awesome start to what I imagine is going to be a stellar series. There was some suspense and drama alongside plenty of emotion with all the feels. I enjoyed the strong family bonds and getting to know some of the small town characters. Lark and Reid made a wonderful couple and I enjoyed seeing them interact and reconnect.
Although some of the mystery will be carrying on into the next book, this was still definitely a standalone and there wasn't a cliffhanger.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review. All opinions expressed are solely my own.
August 27, 2025
A really well written, gripping story . The love building between Reid and Lark, their shared loss of his sister /her best friend brings them together. Lark was the only one of the house mates to survive that night , it was part of the serial killer’s MO that his victims were brunette and she is a pale blonde . Maybe it was because she was ill after the party and slept in the bathroom that saved her.
After being away for 9 yrs she has to return to care for her mum, Thea’s family might welcome her especially Reid but not everyone does
After being away for 9 yrs she has to return to care for her mum, Thea’s family might welcome her especially Reid but not everyone does
February 24, 2024
I enjoyed the first book in the Ember Hollow series. Reid and Lark have a history that keeps them connected though the tragic death of his sister and her best friend. As Ried and Lark begin rebuilding a friendship that is starting to lead to a long-lasting relationship, the history that connects them continues to repeat itself.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 25, 2024
Man oh man…this one will have you chewing your fingernails from the start! The storyline is incredible; the characters keep you guessing; the plot twists and turns keep you in knots; and the HEA literally steals your breath away! I couldn’t put this one down—read it from start to finish. You definitely need to grab this one today! (I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book and was totally mesmerized by it.) ❤️❤️
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