What do you think?
Rate this book
Stolen Heart: A Steamy Romance of Secrets and Betrayal
Unearth the secrets of Stolen Heart – a thrilling blend of romance and suspense where love and betrayal collide. Get ready to be captivated!In the shadows of Boston's historic libraries, Celeste conceals a secret agenda fueled by desperation and a web of lies. A librarian struggling to make ends meet and burdened by her sister's mounting medical bills, she risks everything in a daring move to enter the clandestine world of rare book theft. Her a priceless tome that promises to solve all their problems.
But how does one slip a treasure out of the library's watchful gaze without raising suspicion? Enter Reggie Eldeeb, a Harvard student teacher drawn to Celeste, unknowingly ensnared in her web of deceit. Celeste manipulates Reggie into helping her steal the coveted book, all while harboring a growing affection for him. The lines blur as love complicates her calculated plan.
As the FBI closes in on the library theft, Celeste finds herself torn between her love for Reggie and the life-altering choices she must make. Will she sacrifice everything, including her freedom, to secure her sister's life-saving treatment? Or will she take a leap of faith, revealing her secrets to Reggie in a desperate plea for forgiveness and help?Reggie, too, holds his own concealed truths, and the fate of Celeste and her sister rests on the decisions he's forced to make.
Join Celeste and Reggie on this heart-pounding journey through love, secrets, and betrayal. Are you ready to have your 'Stolen Heart' captivated? Dive in and let the adventure begin.
But how does one slip a treasure out of the library's watchful gaze without raising suspicion? Enter Reggie Eldeeb, a Harvard student teacher drawn to Celeste, unknowingly ensnared in her web of deceit. Celeste manipulates Reggie into helping her steal the coveted book, all while harboring a growing affection for him. The lines blur as love complicates her calculated plan.
As the FBI closes in on the library theft, Celeste finds herself torn between her love for Reggie and the life-altering choices she must make. Will she sacrifice everything, including her freedom, to secure her sister's life-saving treatment? Or will she take a leap of faith, revealing her secrets to Reggie in a desperate plea for forgiveness and help?Reggie, too, holds his own concealed truths, and the fate of Celeste and her sister rests on the decisions he's forced to make.
Join Celeste and Reggie on this heart-pounding journey through love, secrets, and betrayal. Are you ready to have your 'Stolen Heart' captivated? Dive in and let the adventure begin.
127 pages, ebook
Published January 18, 2024
4 people are currently reading
2 people want to read
About the author
Kris Holbeck
23 books14 followersKris Holbeck is a contemporary romance author. She enjoys adding a little spice to her novellas and is fascinated by strong female characters. Of Scandinavian descent, she likes to add a touch of cultural perspective to her stories. Her first full series is Heart of the Galante Legacy.
When Kris isn’t writing, she loves to hang out with her man drinking fancy coffee on Sunday mornings. Her keyboard sized Chipoodle likes to sleep between her arms while she writes.
When Kris isn’t writing, she loves to hang out with her man drinking fancy coffee on Sunday mornings. Her keyboard sized Chipoodle likes to sleep between her arms while she writes.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
January 24, 2024
I recently had the pleasure of reading Stolen Heart, and I must say it left me thoroughly captivated! This steamy romance of secrets and betrayal weaves a thrilling tale that keeps you on the edge of your seat from beginning to end.
The story unfolds in the shadows of Boston's historic libraries, where Celeste, a city librarian burdened by financial struggles and her sister's mounting medical bills, embarks on a daring journey into the clandestine world of rare book theft. Kris Holbeck skillfully combines romance and suspense as Celeste's calculated plan to secure a priceless tome unravels with unexpected twists.
One aspect that truly stood out for me was the well-developed characters, particularly Celeste and Reggie. Celeste's desperation and Reggie's unwitting entanglement in her web of deceit create a rich backdrop for the budding romance. Reggie, a tall, red-headed history nerd with a crush on Celeste, adds a delightful layer of complexity to the narrative.
Stolen Heart is a cute and quick romance that manages to be more complex than expected. Despite some fantastical elements, the author successfully creates a compelling narrative that draws readers into the world of Celeste and Reggie. If you're a fan of fictitious escapist romance with a touch of suspense, this book is a must-read.
The story unfolds in the shadows of Boston's historic libraries, where Celeste, a city librarian burdened by financial struggles and her sister's mounting medical bills, embarks on a daring journey into the clandestine world of rare book theft. Kris Holbeck skillfully combines romance and suspense as Celeste's calculated plan to secure a priceless tome unravels with unexpected twists.
One aspect that truly stood out for me was the well-developed characters, particularly Celeste and Reggie. Celeste's desperation and Reggie's unwitting entanglement in her web of deceit create a rich backdrop for the budding romance. Reggie, a tall, red-headed history nerd with a crush on Celeste, adds a delightful layer of complexity to the narrative.
Stolen Heart is a cute and quick romance that manages to be more complex than expected. Despite some fantastical elements, the author successfully creates a compelling narrative that draws readers into the world of Celeste and Reggie. If you're a fan of fictitious escapist romance with a touch of suspense, this book is a must-read.
January 28, 2024
A quick read that certainly plays with your emotions and feelings
Stolen Heart by Kris Holbeck is an enthralling masterpiece that seamlessly weaves together passion, secrets, and betrayal into a captivating tapestry of romance. Holbeck's writing is nothing short of mesmerizing, drawing readers into a world where emotions run deep, and every page exudes an irresistible allure.
The characters are intricately crafted, each possessing a complexity that adds depth to the narrative. The chemistry between the protagonists is palpable, creating an electric atmosphere that keeps the reader hooked from start to finish. Holbeck skillfully navigates the delicate balance between sensuality and storytelling, delivering a steamy romance that leaves an indelible mark on the heart.
The plot twists and turns, keeping readers on the edge of their seats, craving more with every revelation. The author's ability to unravel secrets and expose layers of betrayal adds an element of suspense that elevates "Stolen Heart" to a level of brilliance.
In summary, Kris Holbeck's "Stolen Heart" is a triumph in the romance genre, earning a well-deserved five stars. This book is a spellbinding journey that will leave readers breathless and yearning for more.
Stolen Heart by Kris Holbeck is an enthralling masterpiece that seamlessly weaves together passion, secrets, and betrayal into a captivating tapestry of romance. Holbeck's writing is nothing short of mesmerizing, drawing readers into a world where emotions run deep, and every page exudes an irresistible allure.
The characters are intricately crafted, each possessing a complexity that adds depth to the narrative. The chemistry between the protagonists is palpable, creating an electric atmosphere that keeps the reader hooked from start to finish. Holbeck skillfully navigates the delicate balance between sensuality and storytelling, delivering a steamy romance that leaves an indelible mark on the heart.
The plot twists and turns, keeping readers on the edge of their seats, craving more with every revelation. The author's ability to unravel secrets and expose layers of betrayal adds an element of suspense that elevates "Stolen Heart" to a level of brilliance.
In summary, Kris Holbeck's "Stolen Heart" is a triumph in the romance genre, earning a well-deserved five stars. This book is a spellbinding journey that will leave readers breathless and yearning for more.
January 24, 2024
I loved this little romantic suspense!
In Stolen Heart, Celeste is a city librarian struggling to make ends meet because she and her teenage sister were orphaned. Plus, the sister has a rare chronic medical condition that has put them in debt with all the hospital bills. The rare book held under very little security at the library where she works becomes a temptation too great to resist, as Celeste knows it will fetch a good price that just might make her troubles go away...
Reggie is a tall, red-headed hottie and history nerd who can recite ancient poetry. He considers libraries to be his 'first homes' and his actual home to be his second home. This hot nerd has a crush on Celeste and his erotic dreams about her are really well done and sensual. I was so intrigued as to what would happen between these two. They were both such rich characters, much more developed than I read in a lot of other short romance novels.
I thought the balance of the suspense plot of Celeste trying to pull off a heist with the rare book and the budding romance between Reggie and Celeste was perfect. I recommend this and can't wait to read more (hopefully longer!) offerings from this author.
In Stolen Heart, Celeste is a city librarian struggling to make ends meet because she and her teenage sister were orphaned. Plus, the sister has a rare chronic medical condition that has put them in debt with all the hospital bills. The rare book held under very little security at the library where she works becomes a temptation too great to resist, as Celeste knows it will fetch a good price that just might make her troubles go away...
Reggie is a tall, red-headed hottie and history nerd who can recite ancient poetry. He considers libraries to be his 'first homes' and his actual home to be his second home. This hot nerd has a crush on Celeste and his erotic dreams about her are really well done and sensual. I was so intrigued as to what would happen between these two. They were both such rich characters, much more developed than I read in a lot of other short romance novels.
I thought the balance of the suspense plot of Celeste trying to pull off a heist with the rare book and the budding romance between Reggie and Celeste was perfect. I recommend this and can't wait to read more (hopefully longer!) offerings from this author.
January 19, 2024
A perfect white knight for a less-than-perfect princess
“Stolen Heart” is a cute and quick romance about a librarian and a doctoral student. It is actually more complex than that, as Celeste has a motive to swipe a priceless book from the library and Reggie is just the opportunity she’s looking for. Who needs love when you have a hot guy mooning after you whom you can use? Yeah, well, she does just that, and it grows into the kind of monster lie you never want as an opener at your 50th-anniversary party to describe how you met one another. But, as it’s fiction, he’s the perfect guy who’s rich, forgiving, and accommodating for her poor life choices. He's the perfect white knight for a less-than-perfect princess.
I have a lot of problems with this being a happily-ever-after, but if you are looking for fictitious escapist romance, it is a great little Hallmark-channel version of Orange is the New Black. I'm just not sure how he had time to defend a dissertation with all the drama though.
“Stolen Heart” is a cute and quick romance about a librarian and a doctoral student. It is actually more complex than that, as Celeste has a motive to swipe a priceless book from the library and Reggie is just the opportunity she’s looking for. Who needs love when you have a hot guy mooning after you whom you can use? Yeah, well, she does just that, and it grows into the kind of monster lie you never want as an opener at your 50th-anniversary party to describe how you met one another. But, as it’s fiction, he’s the perfect guy who’s rich, forgiving, and accommodating for her poor life choices. He's the perfect white knight for a less-than-perfect princess.
I have a lot of problems with this being a happily-ever-after, but if you are looking for fictitious escapist romance, it is a great little Hallmark-channel version of Orange is the New Black. I'm just not sure how he had time to defend a dissertation with all the drama though.
February 7, 2024
In Stolen Heart, Celeste is a city librarian struggling to make ends meet. Her sister has a rare medical condition that puts them in debt. There's a book worth a lot of money at the library, and Celeste is kind of considering stealing it to make ends meet and pay off the debts. Reggie is a history nerd and has a crush on Celeste. "Stolen Heart" delivers a mix of romance and suspense. It was a good book and well-written; even if it's not my go-to genre, I did enjoy the story. There is more than just erotic steam in this book, so because it has a plot, I did read it all the way through. I was invested in the main characters. Kris tells an amazing story with suspense, love, passion, and betrayal. It was easy to get lost in her world. The characters felt real and had actual dialogue aside from love and passion. There was a relationship built between them. A nice plot twist also kept me on the edge of my seat and made me really want to finish everything. It has a great plot and a great story. Relatable characters.
January 23, 2024
Based on the cover (I went into this book without reading the blurb), I was expecting this book to be a typical short romance with all spice and no plot. I was pleasantly surprised with the complexity of the characters and the plot in the best of ways, and also surprised about the realism involved as opposed to an unattainable happily ever after. I admired Celeste’s dedication as a caregiver for her sister while also working my dream job as a librarian. The temptation of using a rare book to secure funds for her sister though ends up being too much to bear… the academia vibes were also *chef’s kiss* with a librarian and an archaeologist. I’m not usually a fan of the found family trope, but Reggie and his aunt make it enjoyable. This book would have been a 5 star for me if the editing was a bit better and it was a little longer as some aspects felt rushed. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone looking for a quick, steamy read!
January 26, 2024
This is the first book I have read from kris holbeck and I must say this was quite a interesting, thrilling, romantic read for me.
The story stars a woman named Celeste who plans to steal a rare book and manipulates a man named Reggie, a teacher to steal it for her. However, her plans start to become complicated when she starts to fall in love with Reggie. The story themes are around love and betrayal and is perfect for those that love twists.
I'm not too much into romantic plots, but this one's story captivated my attention very well. The chemistry between Celeste and Reggie was cute and well written, along with their problems from Celeste's financial problems with her sister to Reggie's entanglement and how his decisions will affect Celeste.
This was such an exciting, engaging read for me and I would like to read more from this author
The story stars a woman named Celeste who plans to steal a rare book and manipulates a man named Reggie, a teacher to steal it for her. However, her plans start to become complicated when she starts to fall in love with Reggie. The story themes are around love and betrayal and is perfect for those that love twists.
I'm not too much into romantic plots, but this one's story captivated my attention very well. The chemistry between Celeste and Reggie was cute and well written, along with their problems from Celeste's financial problems with her sister to Reggie's entanglement and how his decisions will affect Celeste.
This was such an exciting, engaging read for me and I would like to read more from this author
February 11, 2024
I was intrigued initially by the library setting, anticipating a more majestic setting than what I ended up imagining as a small, dusty library that was not really even the majority of the setting of the storyline. It was a quick read with very little emotional investment required.
My favourite detour in the novel was the trip the main characters take and the cozy change of setting there. Overall, I found that the storyline felt abrupt and could have been elaborated in several key areas to feel less choppy overall.
I also realized while reading this book that I am actually not a fan of books written in first person narrative so that also likely influenced my lack of connection to the characters and plot. That's good learning for me and perhaps helpful to others with a similar style preference.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
My favourite detour in the novel was the trip the main characters take and the cozy change of setting there. Overall, I found that the storyline felt abrupt and could have been elaborated in several key areas to feel less choppy overall.
I also realized while reading this book that I am actually not a fan of books written in first person narrative so that also likely influenced my lack of connection to the characters and plot. That's good learning for me and perhaps helpful to others with a similar style preference.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 28, 2024
Stolen Heart is a short and steamy OTT romance with a twist. Celeste is a beautiful young librarian who takes care of her sick, 15 year old sister. Reggie is a hunky, quirky doctorate student with a crush on Celeste. When Celeste becomes desperate for money for her sister's medical bills, she considers stealing a rare book from the library. She uses Reggie's crush on her to unknowingly involve him in helping her. But she doesn't think about the consequences of her actions or that she would develop real feelings for Reggie. What will happen? Will she get caught? Will Reggie find out? The couple had decent chemistry, and the story read fast. We also ended on a happy note after all the drama.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 8, 2024
I will admit I did struggle to get into the book at first, but once I did it really kept me hooked and I couldn’t wait to find out what would happen. I am a mood reader most of the time and being in a reading slump hadn’t helped, but this book brought me out of my reading slump. I definitely didn’t expect the book to go the way it did but the ending was lovely.
Reggie is definitely such a gentleman with such a big heart.
Celeste also has a big heart, who doesn’t like to ask for help even when she really needs it
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Reggie is definitely such a gentleman with such a big heart.
Celeste also has a big heart, who doesn’t like to ask for help even when she really needs it
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 24, 2025
Desperate times calls for desperate measures but there are consequences
Celeste is desperate, she needs money, needs it fast & has a plan. Unfortunately for Reggie, it involves him and, to boot, things do not go as expected.
Reggie has a heart of gold, will walk the extra mile for someone & with someone but is now rethinking any possibility of a future with Celeste.
There are some really gut wrenching situations, difficult decisions and I honestly cannot fathom what I would have done in the same situation - possibly what Celeste opted to do.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Celeste is desperate, she needs money, needs it fast & has a plan. Unfortunately for Reggie, it involves him and, to boot, things do not go as expected.
Reggie has a heart of gold, will walk the extra mile for someone & with someone but is now rethinking any possibility of a future with Celeste.
There are some really gut wrenching situations, difficult decisions and I honestly cannot fathom what I would have done in the same situation - possibly what Celeste opted to do.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 18, 2024
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I liked the concept of this story, the chemistry between Celeste and Reggie, their internal monologues were believable, but I do wish it was longer. I think it would have benefited from a few more details about Celeste and Reggie’s backgrounds, especially Reggie’s heritage. Also more research into his dual citizenship would have made the story stronger. I also felt that ending was a bit rushed. The erotic scenes were hot and believable.
I liked the concept of this story, the chemistry between Celeste and Reggie, their internal monologues were believable, but I do wish it was longer. I think it would have benefited from a few more details about Celeste and Reggie’s backgrounds, especially Reggie’s heritage. Also more research into his dual citizenship would have made the story stronger. I also felt that ending was a bit rushed. The erotic scenes were hot and believable.
January 20, 2024
Fun short read with a bit of sizzle
“Stolen Heart” is a short and steamy romance stemming from a con gone bad. A desperate sister. A hot nerd. How could it go wrong? Without spoilers, I loved that the ending isn’t your typical- everyone gets out unscathed- type of ending. Well written and likable characters. Recommended for adult readers needing a quick read and enjoys a sizzling romance with a bit of desperation and bad decisions.
“Stolen Heart” is a short and steamy romance stemming from a con gone bad. A desperate sister. A hot nerd. How could it go wrong? Without spoilers, I loved that the ending isn’t your typical- everyone gets out unscathed- type of ending. Well written and likable characters. Recommended for adult readers needing a quick read and enjoys a sizzling romance with a bit of desperation and bad decisions.
July 7, 2024
Celeste has the weight of the world on her shoulders, and too much temptation at her fingertips. She gives into temptation, breaking the law, to save her sister. This is a quick romance. The characters are unique and story line is interesting. I appreciated a peek into the plight of an honest but desperate women, and the unfolding of this intrigue. I am looking forward to more works by this author. I received a free copy of this audiobook and am voluntarily leaving my review.
January 23, 2024
cool story
I enjoyed the story, but I would have liked a lot more. The end came abruptly, and there could’ve been more erotic scenes. The editing seemed superb, because I didn’t come across any errors that I could find. It makes for an easy read, but it could’ve been twice as long with much more detail.
I enjoyed the story, but I would have liked a lot more. The end came abruptly, and there could’ve been more erotic scenes. The editing seemed superb, because I didn’t come across any errors that I could find. It makes for an easy read, but it could’ve been twice as long with much more detail.
February 9, 2024
This was a fascinating and intriguing story. I don’t want to give anything away, so I will only reflect on the two main characters. Reggie is a teacher with a huge crush on the beautiful librarian, Celeste. Their attraction is intense and steamy, but they need each other for very different reasons. You will be captivated from the very first page. Quick read. Perfect for a lazy afternoon.
January 16, 2024
The author has given us a wonderful story that pulls us into the lives of Celeste, Reggie and her sister, Shawna. The story keeps us turning the pages with suspense, desperation, secrets and consequences.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 24, 2024
Brill
I finished this whole book in a day it is quite a short read but kept me captivated. Wasn't sure if I would be able to relate to the main character after her behaviours in the start of the book but she grew on me! Will definately look for others by this author!
I finished this whole book in a day it is quite a short read but kept me captivated. Wasn't sure if I would be able to relate to the main character after her behaviours in the start of the book but she grew on me! Will definately look for others by this author!
January 26, 2024
I enjoyed Reggie and Celeste’s story. I thought it was a fun, entertaining read. And am voluntarily leaving this review.
February 19, 2024
Stolen Heart deftly captures the reader's attention with its sensuous fusion of romance and suspense. Celeste's perilous descent into the world of rare book theft is crafted with a palpable sense of urgency, enveloping us in her dire straits as she endeavours to rescue her sister from the throes of financial turmoil. The romantic entanglement with Reggie, a character both lovable and complex, deepens the plot and tugs at the heartstrings. Author Kris Holbeck has woven a masterful tale set against Boston's historic backdrop, creating a page-turner that daringly explores how far one might go for family and love. I have received a free copy from the author on BookMuffin.com and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 19, 2024
Student-librarian erotica romance
I have borrowed this book thanks to my Kindle Unlimited subscription and read it on the Kindle app of my tablet. Stolen Heart: A Steamy Romance of Secrets and Betrayal
by Kris Holbeck is a quick read, enjoyable for those looking for slice of life romance erotica with some conflict, where the conflict is not angsty enough to scare off the reader. The male lead is a walking green flag and very proactive in caring for Celeste, the FL, while she is a loving sister willing to go the extra mile for her loved one.
I liked the changes in perspectives, where the narrative constantly transitions between the female lead and the male lead, giving the reader insight into their intentions and thoughts. I very much liked the ending. It was a very funny ending that took me by surprise. The author also gave a treat to the readers by attaching an excerpt of another one of their works.
I recommend this book for anyone looking for a light read romance, perfect for commuting or a holiday, for anyone enjoying the librarian erotica trope.
I have borrowed this book thanks to my Kindle Unlimited subscription and read it on the Kindle app of my tablet. Stolen Heart: A Steamy Romance of Secrets and Betrayal
by Kris Holbeck is a quick read, enjoyable for those looking for slice of life romance erotica with some conflict, where the conflict is not angsty enough to scare off the reader. The male lead is a walking green flag and very proactive in caring for Celeste, the FL, while she is a loving sister willing to go the extra mile for her loved one.
I liked the changes in perspectives, where the narrative constantly transitions between the female lead and the male lead, giving the reader insight into their intentions and thoughts. I very much liked the ending. It was a very funny ending that took me by surprise. The author also gave a treat to the readers by attaching an excerpt of another one of their works.
I recommend this book for anyone looking for a light read romance, perfect for commuting or a holiday, for anyone enjoying the librarian erotica trope.
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews