Running Alone: Mayhem Makers

by D.M. Earl

Running Alone is Kitty and Malachi's story. Two damaged young people searching for a way to exist in their world.

276 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 25, 2024

About the author

USA Today Bestselling author, D. M. Earl creates authentic and genuine characters while spinning stories that feel so real and relatable that the readers plunge deep within the plot, begging for more. Complete with drama, angst, romance, and passion, the stories jump off the page.

When Earl, an avid reader since childhood, isn't at her keyboard pouring her heart into her work, you'll find her in Northwest Indiana snuggling up to her husband, the love of her life, with her seven fur babies nearby. Her other passions include gardening and shockingly cruising around town on the back of her 2004 Harley. She's a woman of many talents and interests. Earl appreciates each and every reader who has ever given her a chance--and hopes to connect on social media with all of her readers.

For the latest news and updates on books and upcoming releases, you can subscribe to my newsletter: https://www.subscribepage.com/dmearln...

Also you can stay in touch by visiting:
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Email
dmearl@dmearl.com

Passion, angst, and drama: Earl's your girl.

Reviews

[Doris · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Devil’s Handmaidens MC

This is another great installment to this series and this time we have Kitty’s story. Malachi was just what Kitty needed to help her come out of her shell due to struggling with panic attacks and anxiety. I never seen a man that was so patient and caring for the woman he loves. Now he just has to convince her that they are meant to be.

There is plenty of drama and secrets that made this book a big page turner. I love the Devil’s Handmaidens because they all seem so tough and can take of themselves. The way they watch each other’s backs is awesome. I always look forward to the next book that this author releases.

[Sue · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great read that centers on Ruby (Kitty) and her anxiety and panic attacks. Malachi (Lachi) is her sounding board and her lifeline. This was a well written book based around everyone's life. Some intense moments but overall a great story. HEA. I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Julie Jackson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reviewed for SNS

Ruby has so many secrets that I fear she may not even know herself. Malachi seems to pull her out of her comfort zone. I really enjoyed the storyline. Great writing.

[Clayr Catherall · Rating 5 out of 5]

As I can’t get enough of the Devil’s Handmaidens, this spinoff series is a dream come true for me. It’s a crossover between the Mayhem Makers and the Devil’s Handmaidens MC. So you get to dip into both MC worlds.

Kitty met Malachi in the previous book but she struggles with opening up to him. Even when he’s tried to stay in touch with her. She’s kept him at distance. Will she find the courage to let him know how she feels?

The first book to this series was amazing and this second one was just as good.

[Kurtins R · Rating 4 out of 5]

I find D.M Earl's style of writing very interesting, It is almost conversational and it is quite fascinating.
Kitty and Malachi's story follows up on Squirt and Presley's after the Mayhem Makers book convention. This is a series for the Prospects of the Devil's Handmaidens and continues on from these stories as well has having it's own little world withal the same characters.

Kitty and Malachi are great together and I can't wait for more

[Tina Lindsay · Rating 5 out of 5]

Awesome book

I absolutely love this author's books and series. I love the way she writes and brings in new people and the old people so you don't get lost. I also love the women are in charge.

[Michelle Roberts · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love every book you have written, amazing characters. I love how the books are standalone however the characters are inner twined into each book. These are strong men and women and when they find there partner they grow even stronger. Once Kitty opens up to not only her sisters but Malachi she learns more about herself and ways to move past her issues. I would love to read more about her and all of her sisters.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Colleen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an entertaining billionaire romance book that holds your attention throughout. The storyline is intriguing and dramatic as the elements unfold. The characters are well written with steamy chemistry together. Enjoyed this book.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Chris06 · Rating 4 out of 5]

running alone

A twist on the MC theme. A women’s MC and they are all damaged but not broken … the power lies in how they will all do anything for each other.

Kitty … her inner struggles are so real.
Malachi … he know what he wants and he wants her

This is all about growth … and learning to trust

I wonder who DM Earl is as well 😆

[Sandy S · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75 stars-RUNNING ALONE by DM Earl is a contemporary,adult,romantic suspense story set in the author’s DEVIL’S HANDMAIDENS MC, a part of the multi-authored MAYHEM MAKERS-MMM series originally focusing on the fictional Motorcycles, Mobsters and Mayhem author’s book signing blending fact with fiction as many of the participating authors in the series have cameos including DM Earl. This is twenty-three year old Devil’s Handmaidens MC prospect Ruby aka Kitty, and tech giant/ software designer Malachi’s story line. Kitty and Malachi first met in DM Earl’s RUNNING WILD.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Malachi and Ruby) RUNNING ALONE focuses on the second chance relationship between Malachi and Ruby. Approximately eighteen months earlier, several members of the Devil’s Handmaidens MC spent a weekend at the Motorcycles, Mobsters and Mayhem author’s books signing convention in Texas,where each would meet their potential futures including our story line couple but months would pass, and Ruby and Malachi’s relationship takes a back seat to distance and time. Fast forward to present day Malachi, and his associates Freddie, Nova and Jude are heading to Timber-Ghost, Montana,and Malachi is hoping to take time for their struggling relationship but the Thunder Cloud Knuckle Brotherhood has reappeared, taking aim at our story line couple.

The world building focuses on the building but struggling relationship between our story line couple, as well as perceived betrayal: extortion; and dysfunctional family dynamics.

The relationship between Malachi and Ruby started approximately eighteen months earlier but time,responsibilities and distance threatened any permanence. Hoping to reconnect with our story line heroine, Malachi takes his time to seduce the woman with whom he has fallen in love but Malachi has secrets, secrets that may threatening any future with Ruby. There are no $ex scenes, Malachi refuses to pressure Ruby into something more.

There is a large ensemble cast of familiar and colorful secondary and supporting characters including most of the previous story line couples in the Devil’s Handmaidens MC and Grimm Wolves MC.

RUNNING ALONE is a story of secrets and lies, betrayal and vengeance, family and friendships, relationships and love. The premise is dramatic yet entertaining ; the romance is sweet; the characters are dynamic and charismatic.


copy supplied for review

[Pam · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 Stars

This is book two in this spin off of the Devil's Handmaidens MC that brings in Mayhem Makers-MMM. When the prospects snuck off to Texas to the book sighing, there was more than one connection made that weekend. Ruby (Kitty) and Malachi (Lachi) hit it off and they spent the weekend getting to know one another. Even went as far as spending some weekends together after that but it suddenly stopped.

Kitty is very proud of how far she has come since finding the Devil's Handmaidens. They have brought her into the fold, given her honest work to do and made her feel part of a family she hadn't had in a very long time. Other than club things she tends to keep to herself and spends time lost in her books. This is partly a guise to hide her anxiety & panic attacks, and her lack of confidence in herself.

Malachi is a self made business man who has done very well for himself since he started his business at 16 years old. He doesn't flaunt his wealth but when he can help out a friend or honest person, he does what he can. It was refreshing that Ruby didn't know who his was and actually liked him for him and not what he can offer her. He was very disappointed when she just stopped returning his calls and texts with no explanation. Looking forward to this trip to see his buddy but also to get some answers.

Nobody expected all the events that would come to light with this one guys trip. That damn Brotherhood shows it's face one again. Will everyone make it through this unharmed? Will this be the chance that Ruby and Malachi need for a second chance?

Grab your copy and sit down for an exciting adventure that will keep you guessing as the secrets and lies of the past come to light. As this made family holds everyone up and faces their problems as a united front.

*** Advanced copy provided in exchange for an honest review. ***

[Grinning Cat · Rating 5 out of 5]

Running Alone by D.M. Earl
Cat’s Stats
MMC/FMC- Malachi “Lachi” and Ruby “Kitty”
Genre- MC Romance
Length- about 190 pages
Heat- slow burn, they build up to the thing but don’t do the thing. It’s not detailed.
Series? Y. Part of MMM and also part of Devil’s Handmaidens
Safety? Y
Triggers- off page partial SA of a minor character, off page violence, mild violence, non explicit erotic content, mentions of trafficking, mental health issues, a surfeit of chocolate.
Tropes- Billionaire, club prospect, betrayal, ecumenical MC club hangouts, shy heroine, second chance, dude in distress, that’s not my leg, more plot than hot.
What I liked- I thought this was a really good book. I liked that the women of the club were strong, owned their power, and supported each other and built each other up. The romance between Malachi and Ruby is lovely, but the more important relationship here is the one between the club sisters. The world building here is exceptional. The side characters in this book are layered and likable. I thought it was an interesting choice to not have the main couple go all the way, but it made sense for their relationship, which they were building carefully in their second chance. The interpersonal communication between characters in this book was excellent and made for strong bonds between characters; I think that the need for communication was the driving theme for the book. I am so glad that I read this.

[Kathy Wideman · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is the second book in this series. It is also part of the Mayhem Makers-MMM Collection. This book focuses on Kitty and Malachi. They met in the first book in this series. Kitty had a hard childhood that has left her with anxiety and not much confidence in herself. Malachi is confused why Kitty stopped meeting him and communicating with him. He is determined to figure out why. So when Presley invites him and their group to visit he doesn't hesitate. Kitty is finally opening up to her sister about what she is going through and of course they are right there for her. There could be trouble on the horizon though. Trouble has once again found it's way to the Handmaidens. Kitty and Malachi will need to talk. They both have things they need to tell the other then there is the trouble to deal with. Kitty is getting more confident each day. Watching her blossom into who she was always meant to be is wonderful. Malachi is perfect for Kitty. He is patient and understanding. He knows when to help her and when to let her take care of things herself while supporting her. This book was a wonderful read. Less action than others but no less fantastic. I can't wait to read more about these characters. Also to find out who D.M. Earl is in the series. D.M. Earl is a fantastic author and I can't recommend her books enough.

[Karen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Everyone is going through something in their life. They may be able to hide it well or they may not. It depends on how you watch a person to really understand them and taking the time to talk to a person and really listen to them, you may find out things that you can't see.

Some people need routines to keep their life on track and their mind functioning so they can live their life without the chaos all the time. Anxiety, depression, destructive self-talk are all real and yet they may not always be easy to see in a person. Unless something happens to through a person for a loop and then everything could come to the surface.

Kitty has had to deal with a lot in her life and she hides a lot from those around her that she cares about, but when she met Malachi during MMM23, she was able to control her mind and the chaos. She even took some time to get to know him, but then when her mind started to deceive her she pulled back. Now she could have a second chance with him, but she will need to come to terms with some thing and share her secrets with her sisters.

I love the Timber Ghost Chapter of the Devil's Handmaidens and the spin off with the MMM books, and Running Alone was another great story in this chapter. I can't wait to read more and fall in love with more of these women and their other halves.

[Angels · Rating 5 out of 5]

In another emotional and heartfelt read, the club sisters open up and lay all their feelings on the line to support a struggling sister, with even our favorite character, Shadow, showing support.

Ruby and Lachi, as she calls him, have a second chance to explore their feelings for each other. Ruby is going through something personal, and it's heart-wrenching to hear her pain. Despite her struggles, Ruby is strong and determined, and we loved seeing her open up and show her innocence.

Malachi's character is sweet, forgiving, genuine, and smart. He is an all-around sweetheart with a giving heart and has no problem expressing his feelings, which we loved the most about him. The story is emotional, revealing
painful truths and betrayals, showcasing beautiful friendships, pain, suffering, love, laughter, some suspense, and a few laughs. It's heartwarming to see these women find amazing men to be theirs. The interactions among the women are caring, kind, protective, and a tad nosy, but when they all get together, they can be downright hilarious.

We enjoyed the story, which had a few surprises and was a quick and easy read. While Ruby and Lachi made a beautiful couple, and we loved them together, we missed seeing the intense chemistry that is typically felt and seen between a couple that is the focus of the story.

[Barbara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great crossover between the Devil’s Handmaidens MC, and the Mayhem Makers. If you read the prior book in this spinoff, you’ll remember Kitty is one of the MC’s prospects that snuck off to the MMM24 book signing. It’s there she met Malachi. But at the end of the convention they went their separate ways, as they lived several states apart. At least that is what her MC sisters thought. Kitty had been sneaking off every so often to meet up with Malachi to continue their friendship. They were spending their time getting to know one another. But were they portraying their true selves? Lies were told and personal secrets were kept. But when trouble comes to their door and truths come to light these two star crossed friends must come clean. But will it be too late for them to save their friends and loved ones? Too late to save their budding romance?

Excellent read full of suspense, action, sister/brotherhood and of course romance. While it can be read as a standalone, I strongly suggest reading Running Wild, Book 1 of this spinoff first and I highly recommend grabbing them up asap. You won’t be sorry you did so.

2 Thumbs Up and 5+ Stars

[Jennifer Pierson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kitty is a prospect for this amazing all female MC, but she's got some serious anxiety going (kudos to this author for writing so realistically on this topic), so she doesn't think she's deserving of anything good. Malachi is the man who wants Kitty more than anything, but she's super skittish, and has called their friendship off recently. He's coming to her neck of the woods with some friends, and this time he's going to spend some time with this beautiful woman, but things go sideways before he gets there so they come in hot LOL! Like with serious action as they're trying to get to safety, and these things put Kitty in the middle of the chaos. It means there are twists to keep me on my toes, but more than that, it also made me laugh because of Shadow who is awesome in her crazy. Oh, and it's very much a slow burn that I loved as there was a ton more sweet to the pages as it did my heart good! HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND!

[Spunky N Sassy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Spunky N Sassy Rating: 5.0

~~~~~~~~~~Julie's ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Review~~~~~~~~~~

Ruby has so many secrets that I fear she may not even know herself. Malachi seems to pull her out of her comfort zone. I really enjoyed the storyline. Great writing.

~~~~~~~~~~Tracy's ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Review~~~~~~~~~~

Wow! I absolutely loved this book, my favorite in this series so far. It was a book more about the relationships between the sisters. I love learning more about the characters in this series. Ruby "Kitty" is so much stronger than she thinks and once she opens up she will see the light others around her see in her. Malachi "Lachi" has always been judged by his net worth so when he tells Ruby he expects the same but she is so different than what he ever expected. Love this story so much, it is a must read and from an author not to be missed.

[Cheri · Rating 5 out of 5]

Running Alone by D M Earl 5 stars pub date 10/25/24 review due 10/28
Kittie & Malachi

Loner. Yeah, she has been for most of her life. Prospecting with the Handmaidens is giving her a family. Still, she doesn't mingle. Will she? After an unauthorized outing with some others, she met someone. But long distance isn't for her. She's keeping secrets about her past that affect her present. Will she open up?

He thought they had something going but she just closed up. With a chance to confront her face to face, can he persuade her to give them a chance?

I loved this one and was so taken by their relationship. It won't be easy for them but they both have good "family" behind them. The club's enemy rears it's ugly head. The author has some little sneaky mystery going on. Just plan on a compelling read--as always with the author.

[Courtney Reads Smut · Rating 3 out of 5]

THIS IS NOT A MMM ( MALE,MALE,MALE) BOOK. The MMM stand for something else in the book.

Ruby (AKA Kitty) is 23 and suffers from anxiety. When she finds out that Malachi (aka Lachi) was coming to the ranch to see her, she panics! She doesn’t think she is good enough for him.

Malachi is coming to the ranch to see her because she quit responding to his calls and texts. They had been doing the long distance/getting to you know for months. Well he wants to know if it’s over or if she wants to take the next step.

🩶Mental health
🔥Slow burn
❤️Clean romance
❤️HEA
❤️ Cinnamon Roll Hero
I would advise reading the previous books in this series. There is a lot of references to previous events.

[Marini Drobish · Rating 3 out of 5]

I am a big fan of books featuring motorcycle clubs, so the fact that this was about a female motorcycle club hooked me right away. I like that the club is a haven for women who have had a rough life and that they are led by a president who is always looking to help those who need it. Dual POV is also a feature in novels that I enjoy a lot as it helps to enhance the story when you have more than one perspective. There were moments when I was confused about some of the characters because of the use of both real names and club names in dialogue. Some of the plot points were a bit predictable, but made sense in the overall story structure. It was good for a short read and entertaining.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Wendy Livingstone · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ruby / Kitty suffers from anxiety and panic attacks, and she is a Devil’s Handmaidens MC prospect, who is haunted by demons from her past. Malachi / Lacki is a tech giant / software designer, who is Kitty’s sounding board and supporter.
This is a well written easy to read, fast paced story, with family dynamics, friendships, emotions, suspense, intrigue, secrets, second chances, lies, betrayal, hope, loyalty, healing, and love, which leads to an entertaining, unpredictable, and sweet addictive page turner.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.

[Tesh · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow this was amazing!

Kitty and Malachi were a great couple in this MC themed book. Their connection was explosive and with the conditions that Kitty was dealing work with Lachi was the man to help her get through it.

I loved the team spirit that the guys all had each other's backs and in turn that includes the ladies as well.

This book seems more from the POV of kitty. Great plot and amazing characters to get involved with and an easy read style of writing that I really enjoyed. I'm looking forward to more from this author, as this is the first of her books I've read.

Great work!!.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[ObsessiveReader · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kitty and Lachi meet when the prospects run off to a book signing in Running Wild. Lachi wants Kitty in his life however she doesn't feel like she is good enough. Lachi's trip to see Presley is a chance for them to see if they can make a go of it. They must get through betrayal and further danger from the Thunder Knuckle Brotherhood. Kitty is a relatable character. She suffers from PTSD as well as high anxiety, which she comes to learn to help herself. Lachi is a self-made man. Brilliant, he has his own company, however, he goes out of his way to help others. He is the perfect man for Kitty.

[Ann L · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kitty’s journey as a prospect in this all-female MC is both intense and heartfelt, especially as she battles with anxiety and self-worth. Malachi is patient but determined to win her over, even after she puts their friendship on hold. When he and his crew show up in her territory, things go sideways fast, throwing Kitty into action-packed chaos! The storyline is full of twists, laughs—especially thanks to the unforgettable Shadow—and a slow-burn romance that’s as sweet as it is satisfying. Absolutely recommend for a thrilling and heartwarming read

[lori · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another great book by this author. One thing I love about this author is that she doesn't shy away from writing about life issues like anxiety and depression and who all it effects besides the one effected by it. You feel all of the emotions from the characters whether it be good or bad. I loved that the author doesn't have all the characters just automatically jump in bed. That is fantastic. Ruby (Kitty) deals with a lot of issues and I love that Malachi is patient with her. These two are perfect for the other. You have Malachi (Lachi) being kind and patient and when Ruby needs a gentle hand and just to be lifted up he's there for her. Ruby is there because she is falling for him and feels a connection that she has never felt before. When he finds out she and her fellow sisters are in trouble he will do anything to keep her safe. I loved all of the characters from the Devil's Handmaiden MC, I definitely need to read their individual stories. Shadow is definitely quite the character, loved her. I highly recommend this book, I thoroughly enjoyed it.

[Sophie Ruthven · Rating 4 out of 5]

My rating is based solely on how I felt reading compared to other books by this author.
Don't get me wrong, it was still a good book, and if you're new to this author, since it's a standalone it would be a good introduction without overloading you too much.
I personally would of loved more suspense, but that's mainly because I know how well the author does it.
I did love the characters both together and apart, and love how their relationship isn't rushed like you see in most books.
Look forward to seeing what the author comes up with next.

[Mimirureviewbooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

Running Alone: Mayhem Makers-MMM is book 2 written by the amazing author D.M. Earl. This is Kitty and Malachi's story, a Devil's Handmaidens MC spinoff. Two damaged young people searching for a way to exist in their world. The author did not disappoint, this book delivers on every level: great writing, drama, humor, danger, outstanding characters, lots of emotions and characters growth.
NO SPOILERS!! It is a must-read for any biker romance lover or any fan of D.M. Earl stories. Can't wait for more.

[GKP2460 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Running Alone is book 2 the Devil's Handmaidens spinoff Mayhem Makers. It's Kitty and Lachis emotional, intense story. Kitty suffers from anxiety and panic attacks. She does well hiding except from the one person who may be her only salvation. It's a great, fast-paced story about understanding, healing and hope. Kitty is a tough cookie but with Lachi there's no need to pretend, he accepts her completely as she is. Another fantastic read from this author!

[Lisa Bing · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is another great read by this author and I loved following Kitty as she grew into the person she was always meant to be with the support of the Devil's Handmaidens and especially from Malachi. He was so patient and caring for her and you could feel their bond strengthen throughout. This story is lite on action but the communication between characters is fab. I'm looking forward to the next book in the series :D