Escape to the Bayou

Southern Justice #1

by Amber Leigh Williams

Can she outrun the threat from her past…
to stay alive and save her friends?

Ten years ago, informant Javier Rivera helped free Dr. Grace LaCroix and her friends from human traffickers. When the leader of the cartel escapes and comes looking for vengeance, the traumatized surgeon must go on the run, again aided by Javier. Can she trust this man from her past? From the raucous streets of New Orleans’s Mardi Gras to a ghostly plantation house deep in the bayou, Grace and Javier dodge the ruthless leader’s attacks…until Grace’s complicated feelings for her hero are threatened by the bombshell secret he keeps.

From Harlequin Romantic Danger. Passion. Drama.

Feel the excitement in these uplifting romances, part of the Southern Justice

Book 1: Escape to the Bayou

Genres: Suspense

267 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 26, 2024

About the author

Amber Leigh Williams has been a romance author since 2006. When she’s not writing, she enjoys travelling and being outdoors with her family and dogs. She is fluent in sarcasm and is known to hoard books like the book dragon she is. An advocate for literacy, she is an ardent supporter of libraries and the constitutional right to read. She has lived on the Gulf Coast for most of her life. . Find out more about Amber and her books at www.amberleighwilliams.com

Reviews

[Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

Nicely paced romantic suspense about a dark topic. The main characters are interesting and likeable. As is with Harlequin stories there's a HEA.

[Crystal-Rain Love · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another high-stakes thrill ride, this time through the Deep South! I've always wanted to see New Orleans and I feel like I have, thanks to Amber Leigh William's talent of painting such vivid scenes with her words.
I love that Javy wasn't your usual over-six-feet-tall perfect alpha male who never loses a fight, and Grace was a survivor, one who didn't have to be some she-warrior with specialized weapons skills or anything like that, but the kind of survivor many women can relate to more. Both characters were clever and realistic, the side characters were a hoot, and the action didn't let up!
Great new series!

[Heather · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved the suspense, action and romance. This is the first book in the new series. Amazing read and I enjoyed the characters, I'm looking forward to more in the series,


I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Kevin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Confession time: I haven't read a book in Harlequin's Romantic Suspense series since the '90s. Maybe longer. ESCAPE TO THE BAYOU was a good way to return.

Dr. Grace Lacroix's past revisits when Javier Rivera, the man who saved Grace and her two best friends from the sex trafficking life they'd been forced into while visiting Mexico when they were 18. Twelve years later, each girl has moved on as best she could. Sounds like the setup for a trilogy of books, right?

The action starts immediately and at times it felt like I was watching a movie while reading. This is a good thing. There is great chemistry between Grace and Javy so the romantic elements are somewhat believable as well. Readers get to meet some of Grace's friends as well, all of whom I hope to see in the next two books since they are also connected to the other girls. Author Amber Leigh Williams uses locales effectively. A trip through the bayou reminded me, oddly enough, of DC Comics' Swamp Thing and its setting, both the beauty and the possibility of danger.

One downside to this book is the sex-trafficking angle. I know it's real, but it also feels like an overused trope as a result of the reality. Another is that the next book in the Southern Justice series doesn't look to be published until April 2025. I'm not sure I can wait that long.

A recommended read.

I received an advance reader copy from the author through BookSirens, for which I thank them. All opinions are mine.

[CLorraine · Rating 4 out of 5]

Escape to the Bayou by Amber Leigh Williams is the first book in her new series, Southern Justice. The series follows three young women who escaped from a horrific situation in Mexico years earlier. The three women have made the best of this harrowing situation and while they still bear the scars of their trauma, they have put the past behind them…. mostly. When Javier Rivera reconnects with Dr. Grace LaCroix, she has mixed emotions, he was very instrumental in helping them escape but his presence can only mean danger. Javier has pined over Grace since he walked away, now their common enemy has escaped, and he will not let anything happen to the woman he has come to love! However, Javier is still holding on to secrets, will his lack of honesty derail their developing relationship? Javier and Grace had an amazingly complex backstory and shared a great deal of unforced chemistry. The suspense and tension were palpable, and Jamie made a formidable villain. I look forward to Sloane’s and Pia stories, as we continue to unravel this web of deceit and suspense.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
https://theretiredreader.com/f/escape...

[Marie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I wasn't sure at first if this book was for me I haven't read many suspense romance before, but this story has changed my mind. Having been kidnapped and trafficked twelve years ago Grace and her friends had been rescued and then returned home. Now living in New Orleans as a doctor she was rebuilding her live the best she could. Javier never forgot the women he saved but one in particular always crossed his mind. Now he had to warn her her enemy has escaped and was probably looking for revenge. When your past meets your future its not always a good thing and that's certainly the case with this story. Will Javier open up and reveal all his secrets. Can Grace finally drop the walls she built around herself. Will they ever be able to live normal lives. This story had be on the edge of my seat the characters are so complex and compelling at the same time. I loved Eulalie she is a force to be reckoned with. If I had to find a down side it would be the Spanish comments, I found myself having to use the translation app on my kindle what a godsend. But I would say I throughly enjoyed this book and hope that Sloane will have a book of her own that may finally conclude the story

[Vault666 · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

First of all, I loved the suspense in Escape to the Bayou! I really am a suspense girly… The tension was intense and kept me fully engaged. Amber Leigh Williams has a real knack for bringing the setting to life—her descriptions of the city and bayou were vivid without ever dragging, which made it easy to picture the scene without losing momentum.

The chemistry between the main characters was fantastic, and their journey had me fully invested in their story. And let’s just say the steamy moments did not disappoint—they were just right!

One thing, though: it felt like a little something was missing. Some of the side characters felt important to the plot but didn’t get much page time, especially toward the end. And although the main couple found their happy ending, it felt a bit like a cliffhanger instead of a complete wrap-up. Here’s hoping the next books in the series will give us a bit more closure!

[J · Rating 5 out of 5]

Suspense, intrigue and disturbing

I read the book blurb, then had a mental debate about reading it because the last time I read a Harlequin book, was last century 😅; I'm really glad I followed through and selected it.

This book tells the story of one of three women who were kidnapped when on holiday, in Mexico, after finishing high school and then trafficked. Javier, one of the kidnappers went back and saved them. Over a decade late, each of them has survived in their own way; then Javier reenters Grace's life with a sinister message.

The way Amber Leigh Williams uses her words to describe New Orleans and the Bayou scores 10/10, I was there with them as they raced to stay ahead of their hunters. While all this is happening, the two reconnect but there are secrets that are difficult to share.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Vickie Chaisson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first book in the Southern Justice series and it is full of suspense, human trafficking, kidnapping, trauma that involves three women who have been friends forever. The back story helps us to get to know what happened and what they had to overcome. The story starts 12 years after the kidnapping and involves strong feelings. There are some issues that could be triggering. Be sure to read the trigger warnings that being said you will be entranced from the first page to the last. These characters are enthralling and written to perfection. Javier and Grace are perfect together and this story brings out their strengths and weaknesses. These characters are realistically written and you will really like them Secondary characters give great depth to the story and I cannot wait to read the rest of the books in the series.

[Paige Lynn · Rating 4 out of 5]

The appearance of Sloan cramped my reading experience, and I knocked a point off for it. Despite her tumultuous background and reasonable response, it was hard not to see her as the woman coming between our main couple here. And I almost would have preferred the story without her. I also felt like she was mothering our female main character, when our FMC, was the strong one for them when it counted. FFWD: I also think the ending could have been done better. Javier deserved a "win" even if the villain is needed for book 3. But overall, I loved the chemistry between our pairing. I loved how they were fighting for each other from almost the beginning. I loved them being on the wong and taking care of the kitten. Loved, loved them.

[Tracey · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed reading Escape to the Bayou. The female lead, Grace, is a survivor of a horrific event. The male lead, Javier, is the person who helped her save herself. The two are reunited when the past comes back to haunt them both. It is apparent the two have some unresolved feelings for one another and the circumstances that bring them together seem insurmountable. However, the two manage to move forward from the past together. I enjoyed this book and look forward to reading the stories of some of the secondary characters such as Sloane and Pia. I am ready for Book 2!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Sandy Edwards · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the first book Amber Leigh Williams’s new series Southern Justice, and it was a suspenseful read with action and romance!
Twelve years ago, Grace, Pia, and Sloane were trafficked in Mexico. This story focuses on Dr. Grace LaCroix. It takes place 12 years later when they learn that the leader of the cartel, Jaime Solaro, has escaped from prison. In Mexico, Javier Rivera helped the women escape. Now, he has come to New Orleans to aid Grace once again, as she goes on the run. As they make their way through the city of New Orleans to an old plantation house in the bayou, they escape the men chasing them. Support characters Sabine, Eulalie, and Dante contribute levity to the story.
In the end, though, can Grace trust Javier? Is he really done with the cartel, and will the secret he’s keeping threaten the feelings and relationship they have for each other? You need to read this tension-filled story to find out!
I received a copy of this book via BookSirens and my honest review is my own voluntary opinion.

[Tc · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the 1st book in the Southern Justice Series by Amber Leigh Williams. This is a series about three young women who escaped from a horrific situation in Mexico.. This is Javier Rivera and Dr. Grace LaCroix's story. He has reconnected with her, but his presence can only mean danger. Javier is still has secrets that need to be revealed. There is suspense, deceit and tension which unfolds now add a very formidable villain and you have an interesting read.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Tesh · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great fast paced adventure suspense book.

When the Cartel leader from their past is after surgeon Dr Grace, it is Agent Javier who comes to her aid again and they need to run.

Loaded with suspense, danger and drama it is a great romance, with a few twists and turns as well. Running for their lives doesn't seem to hold back the romance and feelings between Javier and Grace. They have a connection from the past and the current situation they face.

Well done and a spell binding read. This is a first from this author but I'll be looking out for more.

[Heather Wray · Rating 5 out of 5]

When a blast from your past turns up unexpectedly do you trust them again or not?
Really enjoyed this first book, so many twists and turns, great characters, and plenty of action too. Loved that Javier was willing to step in again, risk his life and be there for the woman he never forgot. Very much looking forward to the next books

I received a review reader’s copy of the book, and I am leaving this review voluntarily

[Debbie Benson · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm voluntarily leaving a review after receiving a free copy. It is a fast paced story from the time Grace, Sloane and Pia were prisoners and Javier helped to free them. Twelve years later the danger returns when Jaime escapes prison. Javier returns to help going to Grace who he never forgot. They are on the run from Jaime but it ends with a bit of a cliffhanger. Javier and Grace confess their love and make some plans for the future.

[Gail]

Escape to the Bayou by Amber Leigh is a suspenseful romance full of action. As the the attraction between Javier and Grace heats up, so does the action and the escalating danger. But can Grace fully trust Javy or will she have to figure things out on her own. This drew me in and kept me reading. It's well worth taking a look! This is the first book in what looks to be an exciting series. I received an ARC of this book, but am voluntarily leaving this review.

[Diane Richmond · Rating 5 out of 5]

I wish I could give this book 6 stars…..it is the most gripping book I have read for a long time. Having visited New Orleans a few times, the author had me walking those streets again, with its charm and seediness. The characters really came alive and I am now eager to read more in the series.

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

[Dina · Rating 4 out of 5]

Escape to the Bayou by Amber Leigh Williams is an exciting and emotional story. I liked the action and the romance between Grace and Javier. The story moved fast and kept me interested. I wish it was written in first person to feel closer to the characters, but it was still very good.

[Noreen Bennett · Rating 4 out of 5]

A story full of action that held my attention from the start. Didn't realise it was part of a series so will have to wait for the next instalment.

[Harlequin Books]

Contemporary Romance, Psychological Thriller, Thriller, Romantic Suspense
Miniseries
Southern Justice (Book #1)

[Amanda · Rating 4 out of 5]

New Author for me I really enjoyed reading this story. I loved the setting and the characters were realistic and lots of chemistry and suspense would read from this author again

[LaRae · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book got to the meat of the story right away which I loved! It was a tough topic but handled very well with nothing graphic on page! Fast paced and very good!

[Annette Cook · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love Grace and Javy's story. This is another awesome series!!

[Voracious Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent Romantic Suspense Novel. Plenty of Suspense and Danger. Terrific plot; Great Setting; Wonderful characters.

This was my first book written by Amber Leigh Williams but it will not be my last. I look forward to reading more of her books.

I received an ARC of this book. My opinion is given voluntarily

[Nicola “Shortbookthyme” · Rating 4 out of 5]

✅ My thoughts:
A fast-paced romantic suspense read that has so much suspense and intrigue going on.
I loved the setting of New Orleans. The authors writing makes you think you are right there with the characters.
Secrets
Suspense
Mystery
Romance
Human trafficking
Kidnapping
Looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
#shortbookthyme
@shortbookthyme

[Kelly Rose · Rating 5 out of 5]

I fell in LOVE with this book and every book that Amber writes, she’s absolutely amazing! This book was my favorite so far I think, I love how it’s ten years after since grace and her friends were kidnapped into human trafficking, and Javier comes to grace to let her know that the leader has escaped from prison and is coming for her and her friends. This book takes you on a. Wild ride and keeps you hanging on the edge to know what happens. Javier and grace end up running for their lives and in the adrenaline of it all feelings and attraction start to happen! I love love love Javier and everything he’s doing for grace, I highly reccomend this read to see how it goes! And of course no spoilers but it is a romantic suspense and boy will you be shocked!! I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily

[Tina Loves To Read · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a Romantic Suspense, and this is the first book in the Southern Justice series. This book has some stuff that may upset/trigger a reader, so look into triggers before picking up this book. This book pulled me into this story right away, and I loved the suspense/build up in this book. I really loved everything about this book, and this book is everything I needed and wanted. I really got into this story, and I cannot wait for the next book in this series to come out. I received an ARC of this book. This review is my own honest opinion about the book like all my reviews are.