Crashed

Shenandoah Shadows #7

by Melissa F. Miller

Glamorous professional racecar driver Leilah Khan is a thrill seeker, always up for adventure. She’s also tough and fearless. She has to be, as one of the few women in a field dominated by testosterone.

Attorney Ryan Hayes is intellectual and methodical. He may work for a private security firm, but his job is to avoid danger, not seek it. All the same, when his friends surprise him with a driving experience with Leilah for his birthday, Ryan finds it—and her—exhilarating.

After they leave the racetrack, still coursing with adrenaline from the high-speed laps, Leilah crashes her street car. Someone’s tampered with her brakes. And they, whoever they are, won’t stop there. Ryan and Leilah go on the run, unsure if the danger chasing them is from her racing rivals or his work for Potomac Private Services.

As they scramble to find answers, they try to resist the attraction they feel. Their chemistry is undeniable, but neither is willing to act on it. For one thing, they’re oil and water. For another, Ryan is Leilah’s brother’s best friend. But as both the danger and their desire grow, they’ll face more than one impossible choice.

Genres: Mystery

150 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 6, 2024

About the author

Melissa F. Miller is a multi-time USA Today bestselling author of mystery, thriller, suspense, and romance novels. Formerly a complex commercial litigator, Melissa graduated from the University of Pennsylvania with a BA in medieval literature and creative writing poetry and earned her JD, cum laude, from the Duquesne University School of Law, where she served as editor-in-chief of the Law Review.


After fifteen years, Melissa traded the practice of law for the art of storytelling, drawing on her legal background and love of research to craft fast-paced, twisty books for readers who believe light drives out darkness, love is brave, and kind is strong. She writes strong, resilient characters who tackle serious (and sometimes dark) issues and themes with heart.


She is a member of Sisters in Crime, International Thriller Writers, and Novelists, Inc. When she’s not writing, you can find her tending her garden, doing yoga, or drinking coffee. Melissa currently lives outside Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, with her family and their rescues—a cat and a beagle. The cat’s in charge.

Reviews

[Linda Lassman · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC of this novella for a fair and unbiased review.

One thing I like about novellas is when I get so involved in the story that I stop breathing, the effect isn't as bad as when I read a full-length novel. And I did stop breathing several times as I read this book. Miller writes one heck of a great writer, and her skill is more apparent in her suspense novellas because a shorter format is a greater challege for most writers because the suspense and action are more noticeable than in longer works because there's not as much downtime between events. And for me as a reader, that's not a bad thing!

I've been looking forward to Ryan and Leilah's story for a while now because they're among my very favourite of the characters in the Shenandoah Shadows series, and this did not disappoint in any way. The story was beautifully plotted and paced, and the growth of the relationship between Ryan and Leilah was both natural and presented in such a way that it didn't interrupt the action, which I greatly appreciate. And I can hardly wait for the next novella to be released!

[Charlene · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am a fan of Melissa Miller having been hooked since my first Sasha McCandless novel. I received an ARC of Crashed which is book seven in the Shenandoah Shadows series. This novella develops the relationship between Ryan, an attorney, and Leilah, a race car driver as they are thrown into a dangerous situation. The novella ends in a cliffhanger to set up the next book in the series.

I admit that I am not a huge fan of novellas and series. I don’t mind having recurring characters in books but prefer full length novels in which the mystery is solved rather than having cliffhanger endings. That said, this was a fun read and I am looking forward to the next installment.

[Nancy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I knew it would end on a cliffhanger. I wish the the next two in the series were already available! This one had the pace of a race car!

[Suzette · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is part one of Leilah and Ryan’s story and it ends on a cliffhanger. It is easy to read with wonderful characters. It is page turning and exciting. The dialogue is smart and witty. Readers will enjoy getting to know what is happening in this first installment and highly anticipate the next one.

[Joyce927 · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm very late getting into this series having receivedan advancecopy of the book. Apparently, it's a romance thriller concerning people whose daily lives are interconnected in some shadowy international thriller organization. The female lead in this set is a race car driver who begins a romance with the lawyer of the corporation her brother works for, with the two guys having been friends since first grade. As a novella, it is very short and basically introduces the pair and establishes the fact their lives are in danger without divulging which of them is the target nor the reason. Evidently, this format is to give each couple three novellas to explore their situation, this being the third couple trilogy in the series to date. It seems there is a hint of a fourth couple yet to come.

I am not a fan of the format that makes me think of the silent movie series "The Perils of Pauline," which was a melodrama of twenty episodes. I prefer a story which brings closure to the situation at hand. That being said, I am a huge fan of Melissa Miller and own all of the books from three other series and several books from a fourth series. I love the character development and ongoing glimpses into the lives of those characters. For readers who enjoy this novella-type series and romance genre, I'm sure you will love this series. In my opinion, Melissa is one of the best current mystery writers. I highly recommend her as an author

[Teresa Collins · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great beginning to the story of Leilah and Ryan, part of the Shenandoah Shadows series. The book takes off from the beginning like the start of a high-profile car race. There is plenty of action, teamwork, and a bit of romance without any explicit or graphic scenes (thank you, Ms. Miller!). I enjoyed the way Ms. Miller uses her ensemble cast, with each bringing something different to the table. Since this is the first "group" of the series I have read, I'll have to go back now and read about the other members of the team.
I only had one complaint and really, it's not that big of a deal, I guess. These books are all novellas and each couple's story is told over 2-3 books. I waited until all three of the books had been released to the ARC team and read them in one sitting. For me, it was more enjoyable that way. I hate cliffhangers and if I had had to wait, I would have been irritated. I'm hoping Ms. Miller will release the entire series in a box set. That would be a winner for sure,
I received a review copy from the author at my request and this si my honest opinion.

[Avid reader Di · Rating 5 out of 5]

Avid reader Di
5.0 out of 5 stars Crashed into Love ?
Reviewed in Canada on February 7, 2024
We have been introduced to these two characters in previous books and I have been waiting for their story to be told. The plot is great lots of with highs and frightful moments. The reader wonders who is the target Leila or Ryan since a case could be made for both. I loved the description of the seedy hotel, it certainly was not up to the standard that Leila keeps her garage. We learn a bit more about each of these characters through the interaction they have with each other and how they react to the situation they find themselves in. The plot has a cliff hanging finish but we know more is coming in the next novella. I can not wait to discover who the bad guy is. I received an advanced copy of this book and I am freely leaving this review.

[MileHighSunshine · Rating 5 out of 5]

From the very beginning, I was hooked. I read it straight through and really enjoyed reading it!

Riding with a professional race car driver in her personal car would have to be the safest ride you ever took. Maybe not so much! Ryan is a lawyer for a private security company. While he works in an exciting industry, he prefers to avoid adrenaline-filled activities and gets his thrills from fighting cases. Leila Khan is a race car driver in a tough work atmosphere and loves the groove she’s in while racing. When Ryan hitches a ride with Leila, they are shocked after crashing. They spot danger and go on the run.

All of the characters are well written and look forward to reading the next book, Chased, when it releases soon!

I received an advance review copy for free and I am leaving my honest review voluntarily.

[Sassy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Melissa is a talented, friendly, and personable writer. Crashed is a novella, giving me a glimpse of a budding romance between Ryan and Leilah. In this fast-paced story, inspired by racing with crime-solving under-tones, I continued reading into the night, needing to know what was going to happen next. Crashed is Book 7 in the Shenandoah Shadows book series, but my understanding is it can be read as a stand-alone book. My next step though is to go back to the beginning of the series so I can meet all of the characters in the series. I do look forward to Book 8 in this series, as I need to know what happens next! The ending is sure to leave you...in suspense!

[Betsy · Rating 5 out of 5]

A thoroughly enjoyable story in this interesting series. Leilah Khan is a daredevil racecar driver who is totally fearless, or is she? When she unknowingly tangles with an adversary who is actually trying to kill her, she realizes that she needs to combine her many talents with her brother and their friends in order to save both her career and her life. This is a very exciting short story which I was able to read in one setting. A lot of interaction between the many characters and a great story.

[ELMorehead · Rating 5 out of 5]

What All Happens on Ryan's Birthday?


You REALLY need to Read the intriguing "Shenandoah Shadows Series", by Melissa F Miller, in chronological order. So you can understand all the characters and their relationships in "Crashed". 


This Series 7th Novela, starts Leilah and Ryan's engrossing, Action/Adventure. It's a twisting Thriller, with razor-sharp Romantic Suspense. Who's really being targeted, Ryan or Leilah? I Highly Recommend You Read this Story to find out! But it has a Cliff Hanging Ending. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was an amazing ride. Pun intended. I loved reading about Leilah and Ryan's relationship. Unfortunately, it ended too quickly. Luckily, the rest of this trilogy is being rolled out quickly. Can't wait to find out who is really after ??????? No spoiler.

I received an ARC of this book from the author. My review is voluntary and honest. I highly recommend not only this book but the entire catalog of books from this author. Especially Sasha McCandless. Love her and Leo.

[Gail · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! What a wild ride! This novella from the Shenandoah Shadows series is the beginning of a thrilling adventure featuring Leilah and Ryan. One of them is being hunted but neither can figure out who the target is or who is after them. I caught myself holding my breath several times so it's a good thing I read it at the hospital while waiting for mom to get checked out. Can't wait for the next books in the series.

[Carla Bream · Rating 5 out of 5]

Maximum Speed Excitement
I love Ryan and Leilah! They are my new favorite couple to ship. I think it’s a first when you find a Muslim woman race car driver who falls for a mild mannered lawyer. Put them in danger, send them on the run and who knows what might happen. My engines were revved when the shooting started and I didn’t slow down until the end. I won’t give anything away, except to say I am all geared up for the next book.

[Varsh · Rating 5 out of 5]

A brilliantly-written, (in a sense, literally) fast-paced novella by Melissa F. Miller.

As always, the writing is exceptional. The story is delightful and the characters are beyond brilliant.

There are copious amounts of sass, witty banter, found family vibes and the classic Melissa F Miller brand of thrill in this short-but-superb read.

Love love LOVE Leilah Khan! Such a delightful FMC!

Highly recommended!

[Pauline Frost · Rating 5 out of 5]

A well written perfectly paced story pulling you in from the start. This has plenty of action to keep you turning the pages to wonder who was behind the accident that caused both Leilah and Ryan to run and hide. Potomac Protection Services is where Ryan is their corporate lawyer but it has them wondering if he was the actual target and not Leilah who is a professional race car driver. It does end in a cliffhanger so can't wait to read the next book to find out what happened.

[Sammye · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a very short novella in the Shenandoah Shadows series. The plot is fast paced, very well developed and entertaining. It’s an exciting page turner with action and lots of spice. I was anxious to read Ryan’s and Leilah’s story. I wasn’t disappointed! It does end on a cliffhanger. I can’t wait to read the next episode!

[Rhonda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Exciting start to the series

Ryan and Leilah are put in danger. They were in a car accident and saw the brakes were tampered with. They see three men who are stalking towards the car. They decide to take off and hide. I like the beginning of the series and can't wait for the next book.

[K Towle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love this series....in this book Leilah gives Ryan a ride in her race car on the track. On the way to bring him back to the Potomac compound, they are run off the road. The only questions now are why and who, along with which one of them is targeted. When you find out the answers, so many more questions arise. I cannot wait for the next installment in this series.

[Lesley McIntosh · Rating 5 out of 5]

Crashed is a great read , and I was stunned when I finished it , that's how engrossed I became in the storyline Melissa Miller's novella is short but there is a lot packed into the story with strong well rounded characters and enough suspense to keep me hooked . Anyone who is looking for a quick but gripping read will enjoy Crashed and I am keen to read the next in the series

[Rose · Rating 5 out of 5]

Crashed, the latest in the Shenandoah Shadow's series, was simply awesome! It's time for Leilah and Ryan's story and it's as fast and exciting as Leilah's profession as a race car driver. Part romance, adventure and suspense it leaves you wanting more, now! Ms. Miller never disappoints.

[Jackie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another exciting story that won’t disappoint. Leilah is a race car driver and one of the best. Is someone jealous because she’s in a lot of danger. Together with Ryan whom she’s just met, they’re on the run. Will they find out quickly who’s involved before a crime is committed. Outstanding.

[Robin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Intriguing as always. I cannot wait for the next book. I am always impressed with Ms. Miller's books...I learn something every time. The (obvious to everyone!)connection between Leilah and Ryan is finally central in this book. What a ride it is!

[Suzanne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Intrigue and romance wrapped up in one delightful novella. Add to that an ending that has me anxiously anticipating the next instalment in this series. This is a perfect story to read on a lazy afternoon.

[Stephanie Herron · Rating 4 out of 5]

Okay, so I'm not a fan of cliffhangers, in novellas. I'd rather wait for a long book. However, knowing that the rest of the story is coming quickly does help. The story sets up well with the romance between Leilah and Ryan as well as a stalker for her. Good start.

[Don · Rating 5 out of 5]

Started and finished in one afternoon,it was fast paced and quite cute. She did. Good job creating the scene and the storyline. I don’t like that it leads you to buy the next book to see what happens to Ryan now that he escaped death. 5

[Janet Mahlum · Rating 1 out of 5]

I don't believe it. Second book in a row that one must read the next book to find out what next. This one ends with a firey car crash. Who cares. I'm definitely not going on to the next book. I'm not a sucker.

[Rachelle Bachiu · Rating 5 out of 5]

Enjoyed reading this book. Lots of turns and twists and keeps you reading to the end to find out that now I need to wait to continue this story till I get the next one. I still was not disappointed in this author.

[Linda Zelinsky · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a great read filled with action and suspense. The ending was a real surprise and makes you want to read the next book. Great novella!

[Ellen White · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful description in this story,, the adventure and excitement of Leigh and Ryan. Captivating me as I read to a cliff ending. Enjoyed and recommend
Given arc for my voluntary review