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Hollow Point #2
Playing with Danger
It’s strange how quickly life can go from predictable and boring to…not.
How a chance meeting can set off a chain reaction.
How a single moment can offer much-needed clarity.
How a kiss can alter the course of your life.
Valentine Malone fell into my life…correction, I fell into his in the aisle of a grocery store. I fell, not in love, but literally into him right before I stumbled into a display rack of parmesan cheese. Our second run-in had me on the floor slipping and sliding in broken party tubs of margarita mix. And if the first two encounters weren’t embarrassing enough, the third left nothing to the imagination when I walked in on Hot Cop in all his magnificent glory in the shower. Not exactly the meet cute I’d always dreamed of. Three chance meetings was all it took for my perfectly uninteresting life to take a turn.
From the moment she backed into me at the grocery store, I couldn’t get Sophie out of my mind. Beautiful, funny, sweet. And it turns out, brave in the face of sudden danger. She’s everything I ever wanted, and a woman I’ll never deserve. If she knew my secret, sweet Sophie would run and never look back.
But even if I can’t keep her, I’ll do anything to protect her from her own family’s decades-old secrets and an unknown past that leaves her at the mercy of a mysterious enemy. It’ll take everything I know about being on a SWAT team to save her. But will she still want me when my secrets come to light?
How a chance meeting can set off a chain reaction.
How a single moment can offer much-needed clarity.
How a kiss can alter the course of your life.
Valentine Malone fell into my life…correction, I fell into his in the aisle of a grocery store. I fell, not in love, but literally into him right before I stumbled into a display rack of parmesan cheese. Our second run-in had me on the floor slipping and sliding in broken party tubs of margarita mix. And if the first two encounters weren’t embarrassing enough, the third left nothing to the imagination when I walked in on Hot Cop in all his magnificent glory in the shower. Not exactly the meet cute I’d always dreamed of. Three chance meetings was all it took for my perfectly uninteresting life to take a turn.
From the moment she backed into me at the grocery store, I couldn’t get Sophie out of my mind. Beautiful, funny, sweet. And it turns out, brave in the face of sudden danger. She’s everything I ever wanted, and a woman I’ll never deserve. If she knew my secret, sweet Sophie would run and never look back.
But even if I can’t keep her, I’ll do anything to protect her from her own family’s decades-old secrets and an unknown past that leaves her at the mercy of a mysterious enemy. It’ll take everything I know about being on a SWAT team to save her. But will she still want me when my secrets come to light?
360 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 29, 2024
1460 people are currently reading
290 people want to read
About the author
Riley Edwards
109 books2,688 followersRiley Edwards is a Wall Street Journal and USA Today Bestselling author, wife, and military mom. Riley was born and raised in Los Angeles but now resides on the east coast with her fantastic husband and children.
Riley writes heart-stopping romance with sexy alpha heroes and even stronger heroines. Riley's favorite genres to write are romantic suspense and military romance.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 119 reviews
September 3, 2024
The first few meetings between these two were funny. Sophie was so awkward you had to laugh. The awkwardness continued for quite a bit, both dancing around each other, until bam, they were dating, then bam, it was much more after a bit of drama. It sucked what Valentine had to deal with, so it was good that Sophie was there for him and wouldn't let him get stuck in his own head. Valentine returned the favor when more drama found them, this time with Sophie at the center. It got a bit crazy pants towards the end, good thing Valentine had the job he did, along with the friends he did, so that he could find Sophie and deal with the aftermath. Made for a happy ending for two people that deserved it.
October 28, 2024
"Hollow Point #2 - Playing with Danger" by Riley Edwards is a gripping romantic suspense novel with a perfect blend of humor, intrigue, and heart-pounding action. Edwards crafts a memorable, quirky meet-cute between Sophie, an unassuming woman who keeps finding herself in chaotic, embarrassing situations, and Valentine, a dedicated SWAT officer carrying heavy secrets. Their chemistry is undeniable, sparking from the moment they cross paths in a grocery store aisle. Edwards injects humor in their clumsy encounters, which keeps the tone light and engaging even as the story veers into darker, more suspenseful territory.
As Sophie's family secrets start surfacing, Valentine’s protective instincts clash with his insecurities, revealing a depth to both characters that keeps readers invested. Edwards masterfully balances romance with danger, making the stakes feel real. The mystery unfolds at a satisfying pace, with enough twists to keep readers on their toes. Fans of romantic suspense will love this second installment in the Hollow Point series for its humor, endearing characters, and high-stakes drama.
As Sophie's family secrets start surfacing, Valentine’s protective instincts clash with his insecurities, revealing a depth to both characters that keeps readers invested. Edwards masterfully balances romance with danger, making the stakes feel real. The mystery unfolds at a satisfying pace, with enough twists to keep readers on their toes. Fans of romantic suspense will love this second installment in the Hollow Point series for its humor, endearing characters, and high-stakes drama.
September 1, 2024
Fantastic book from start to finish! This book had me laughing out loud at several of Sophie’s no filter moments from the very beginning. I got the side-eye from my husband through most of the book – yeah, he thinks I’m nuts but it was so worth it. I was pulled in from the first page and read Valentine and Sophie’s story in one sitting. Family drama, humor, heavy emotions, suspense, romance, and off the chart chemistry round out this wonderful book. I love all of Riley’s stories but these two characters and their HEA have moved to the top of the list. I loved Valentine’s protective side and Sophie’s overcoming herself and standing up and fighting for what she wanted. The two of them together were perfect. Also loved seeing all the familiar faces and excited for what comes next.
September 2, 2024
This book is absolutely one of my very favorites this year! While this is an amazing love story, the humor of both of the main characters had me laughing out loud looking like a crazy person!! Valentine and Sophie were just made for each other! Their chemistry was off the charts. One part humor and two parts sexy!!
If life taught Valentine anything, it was not to fall in love. He kept his past and his feelings hidden. Until one night when he met Sophie. Sophie wasn’t looking for love until she ran into it….literally. Two hurt souls healed by one another. Life is great for them until it isn’t. Can Valentine save Sophie from a danger she never saw coming? This is a must read!!
If life taught Valentine anything, it was not to fall in love. He kept his past and his feelings hidden. Until one night when he met Sophie. Sophie wasn’t looking for love until she ran into it….literally. Two hurt souls healed by one another. Life is great for them until it isn’t. Can Valentine save Sophie from a danger she never saw coming? This is a must read!!
September 3, 2024
Valentine and Sophie❤️❤️❤️❤️
Absolutely loved this next instalment to the Hollow Point series❣️This story focuses on Valentine and Sophie. They meet at the grocery store when she bumps into him clumsily (loved this meet cute and the next one too).
Valentine is a member of Sunny’s SWAT team but also very private. One look at Sophie and he knows this is the one woman, who could change the entire course of his future…but the road is twisty and bent and they have a bit to deal with before they can reach their HEA. Can’t wait for more in this series and I’m secretly holding thumbs that Hayden gets a book too - he deserves some love as well🥰
Absolutely loved this next instalment to the Hollow Point series❣️This story focuses on Valentine and Sophie. They meet at the grocery store when she bumps into him clumsily (loved this meet cute and the next one too).
Valentine is a member of Sunny’s SWAT team but also very private. One look at Sophie and he knows this is the one woman, who could change the entire course of his future…but the road is twisty and bent and they have a bit to deal with before they can reach their HEA. Can’t wait for more in this series and I’m secretly holding thumbs that Hayden gets a book too - he deserves some love as well🥰
January 24, 2025
I loved Valentine and Sophie’s story so much. I was hooked from page one and read it in one sitting. The suspense was great as always and I loved the cameos from other Riley characters! Can’t wait for the next book.
October 30, 2024
OK story, but…
A few things that bothered me about this one:
I had to keep reminding myself that the FMC was 37. She thought, acted, and spoke more like a 22 year old. Very immature and had kind of an eeyore/victim mentality.
More apparent though is that I feel like this author’s writing style changed from the many other books of hers I’ve read and it was distracting…really poor punctuation, like the author had a vendetta against commas in this book and didn’t know the proper use of a colon vs a semicolon. I’m guessing the book was never edited or proofread or else Ms. Edwards deserves her money back.
Anyway…lots of things that didn’t make sense or were non sequiturs. Sloppy plot devices and a bizarro twist that felt slapped on and hollow…you’re not given enough detail on a lot of key things, so a lot of the book feels very surface level. And leaving one whole, huge part of the MMC’s story arc just hanging in the air…? Just odd and not what I remember from this author who had otherwise been one of my auto-read writers.
A few things that bothered me about this one:
I had to keep reminding myself that the FMC was 37. She thought, acted, and spoke more like a 22 year old. Very immature and had kind of an eeyore/victim mentality.
More apparent though is that I feel like this author’s writing style changed from the many other books of hers I’ve read and it was distracting…really poor punctuation, like the author had a vendetta against commas in this book and didn’t know the proper use of a colon vs a semicolon. I’m guessing the book was never edited or proofread or else Ms. Edwards deserves her money back.
Anyway…lots of things that didn’t make sense or were non sequiturs. Sloppy plot devices and a bizarro twist that felt slapped on and hollow…you’re not given enough detail on a lot of key things, so a lot of the book feels very surface level. And leaving one whole, huge part of the MMC’s story arc just hanging in the air…? Just odd and not what I remember from this author who had otherwise been one of my auto-read writers.
October 23, 2024
This is book 2 in the Hollow Point series and it can absolutely be read as a standalone-but I would recommend at least reading Shiloh's book (Imperfect) in the Triple Canopy series. That way you can see some of the interactions with the team and understand him a little better. It’s strange how quickly life can go from predictable and boring to…not. How a chance meeting can set off a chain reaction.
How a single moment can offer much-needed clarity. How a kiss can alter the course of your life. Valentine Malone fell into my life…correction, I fell into his in the aisle of a grocery store. I fell, not in love, but literally into him right before I stumbled into a display rack of parmesan cheese. Our second run-in had me on the floor slipping and sliding in broken party tubs of margarita mix. And if the first two encounters weren’t embarrassing enough, the third left nothing to the imagination when I walked in on Hot Cop in all his magnificent glory in the shower. Not exactly the meet cute I’d always dreamed of. Three chance meetings was all it took for my perfectly uninteresting life to take a turn. From the moment she backed into me at the grocery store, I couldn’t get Sophie out of my mind. Beautiful, funny, sweet. And it turns out, brave in the face of sudden danger. She’s everything I ever wanted, and a woman I’ll never deserve. If she knew my secret, sweet Sophie would run and never look back. But even if I can’t keep her, I’ll do anything to protect her from her own family’s decades-old secrets and an unknown past that leaves her at the mercy of a mysterious enemy. It’ll take everything I know about being on a SWAT team to save her. But will she still want me when my secrets come to light?
The interactions between Sophie and Val absolutely cracked me up at times! I loved how Sophie just kind of blurts things out without thinking about it first! Valentine is just the type of hero that I love. Protective with a heart of gold! But he also has some issues he has to come to terms with, and that just makes him real. I loved that Sophie has a male best friend, and that they are truly friends! I really hope Hayden gets a story, because I really liked him too! The drama had a twist that I definitely didn't see coming-it was completely different than what I was expecting, to be honest! But I loved how it played out! This new series is definitely up to par with any of this author's other books, and I can't wait to get all the stories!
How a single moment can offer much-needed clarity. How a kiss can alter the course of your life. Valentine Malone fell into my life…correction, I fell into his in the aisle of a grocery store. I fell, not in love, but literally into him right before I stumbled into a display rack of parmesan cheese. Our second run-in had me on the floor slipping and sliding in broken party tubs of margarita mix. And if the first two encounters weren’t embarrassing enough, the third left nothing to the imagination when I walked in on Hot Cop in all his magnificent glory in the shower. Not exactly the meet cute I’d always dreamed of. Three chance meetings was all it took for my perfectly uninteresting life to take a turn. From the moment she backed into me at the grocery store, I couldn’t get Sophie out of my mind. Beautiful, funny, sweet. And it turns out, brave in the face of sudden danger. She’s everything I ever wanted, and a woman I’ll never deserve. If she knew my secret, sweet Sophie would run and never look back. But even if I can’t keep her, I’ll do anything to protect her from her own family’s decades-old secrets and an unknown past that leaves her at the mercy of a mysterious enemy. It’ll take everything I know about being on a SWAT team to save her. But will she still want me when my secrets come to light?
The interactions between Sophie and Val absolutely cracked me up at times! I loved how Sophie just kind of blurts things out without thinking about it first! Valentine is just the type of hero that I love. Protective with a heart of gold! But he also has some issues he has to come to terms with, and that just makes him real. I loved that Sophie has a male best friend, and that they are truly friends! I really hope Hayden gets a story, because I really liked him too! The drama had a twist that I definitely didn't see coming-it was completely different than what I was expecting, to be honest! But I loved how it played out! This new series is definitely up to par with any of this author's other books, and I can't wait to get all the stories!
September 10, 2024
PLAYING WITH DANGER by RILEY EDWARDS 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Playing With Danger is the second (#2) book in Riley Edwards HOLLOW POINT series
Sophie Huxley has played it safe her whole life. She always buys the same brands, she makes and follows lists, to the letter - never straying off the path. She stays in a job she detests because that’s better than rocking the boat. She has one true friend and an overbearing mother who’s sole purpose in life seems to be telling Sophie how to live her life and criticising her when she doesn’t obey.
Valentine Malone is on the PD’s SWAT team, he’s had his fair share of women but isn’t looking for a Happily Ever After. With his history he believes he doesn’t deserve a family, but when he meets a beautiful, sassy, brave and funny woman three times, all in bizarre circumstances, he’s intrigued.
No he can’t keep her, however much he’d like to but he’s determined to get to know her. As their relationship progresses he vows to protect her with his life but how can he keep her safe from an unknown threat whilst keeping his distance?
————————————
I ABSOLUTELY loved this book!! I cannot express just how much. This is Riley in top form! She writes Sophie with a spunky, cheeky, sense of humour, the third of their ‘bizarre circumstances’ meeting was hilarious and had me snort laughing out loud. Valentine’s deep seated self loathing and emotional trauma is believably written and heartbreaking. Their relationship is portrayed realistically. Sophie is a strong character and I loved the way she wasn’t cowed by Valentine and stuck her heels in. Sophie also has a close relationship with her male flatmate, I would have liked to see more of their back and forth. I hope he gets his own book! The twist towards the end was interesting, I would have been interested to know more about the antagonist and what led to their actions. It was also lovely to see some of the characters from Riley’s previous books in cameo appearances. The action towards the end was quite thrilling. This was a really quick interesting read and I am really looking forward to more books in this series…..especially TIM (IYKYK) Bravo Riley!! 😁👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
Playing With Danger is the second (#2) book in Riley Edwards HOLLOW POINT series
Sophie Huxley has played it safe her whole life. She always buys the same brands, she makes and follows lists, to the letter - never straying off the path. She stays in a job she detests because that’s better than rocking the boat. She has one true friend and an overbearing mother who’s sole purpose in life seems to be telling Sophie how to live her life and criticising her when she doesn’t obey.
Valentine Malone is on the PD’s SWAT team, he’s had his fair share of women but isn’t looking for a Happily Ever After. With his history he believes he doesn’t deserve a family, but when he meets a beautiful, sassy, brave and funny woman three times, all in bizarre circumstances, he’s intrigued.
No he can’t keep her, however much he’d like to but he’s determined to get to know her. As their relationship progresses he vows to protect her with his life but how can he keep her safe from an unknown threat whilst keeping his distance?
————————————
I ABSOLUTELY loved this book!! I cannot express just how much. This is Riley in top form! She writes Sophie with a spunky, cheeky, sense of humour, the third of their ‘bizarre circumstances’ meeting was hilarious and had me snort laughing out loud. Valentine’s deep seated self loathing and emotional trauma is believably written and heartbreaking. Their relationship is portrayed realistically. Sophie is a strong character and I loved the way she wasn’t cowed by Valentine and stuck her heels in. Sophie also has a close relationship with her male flatmate, I would have liked to see more of their back and forth. I hope he gets his own book! The twist towards the end was interesting, I would have been interested to know more about the antagonist and what led to their actions. It was also lovely to see some of the characters from Riley’s previous books in cameo appearances. The action towards the end was quite thrilling. This was a really quick interesting read and I am really looking forward to more books in this series…..especially TIM (IYKYK) Bravo Riley!! 😁👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
September 3, 2024
This is my favorite new release by Riley Edwards in a while. And I say that having loved all of her books. Valentine is just something special. Sophie is a hot-mess (in the best ways), having a near-death experience that opens her eyes to the truth of her life and finding herself wanting more. Readers will delight in her humor, risk-taking, learning to stand up for herself approach in redefining herself and what she wants out of life. She is an absolute gem of a character and I didn’t stop laughing at the way she just says what’s on her mind. She has ZERO filter and to the delight of readers, her endless gaffes when she just blurts out what she is thinking will leave them in stitches at her hilarity. Her relationship with roommate Hayden is what we all thought was impossible, a true opposite-gender friends only relationship. (As a side note, please tell me we are getting a Hayden story because I have to know what happens for a guy so amazing he would choose his best friend’s ex over the best friend in the breakup for purely platonic reasons. He’s like a unicorn in more ways than one!)
Valentine is one of my favorite MMC’s of the year, maybe longer. His absolute dedication to making sure Sophie is safe after 3 chance meetings is enough to give any girl the shivers. He is a true protector in every sense of the word. He’s alpha extreme and sexy as all get out. And on top of that, the way he responds to and supports fan-favorite Sunny (Shiloh Kent) cannot be understated. The tragedy of his past makes him that much stronger and leaves readers with a whole new respect for what he has been able to make himself into. He’s just the whole package.
Adding all of this together, Playing With Danger truly is the whole package of a book. This is book 2 in Riley Edwards’s Hollow Point series (spinoff of Triple Canopy, The Next Generation, and The 707). Fans of the world will recognize several pop-in characters and will appreciate the addition to the series. This is definitely one you do NOT want to miss. And make sure you block out the time because I promise that once you start reading, you won’t want to put it down until you’re all the way through. (And then you’re just gonna want to pick it back up and start again)!
Valentine is one of my favorite MMC’s of the year, maybe longer. His absolute dedication to making sure Sophie is safe after 3 chance meetings is enough to give any girl the shivers. He is a true protector in every sense of the word. He’s alpha extreme and sexy as all get out. And on top of that, the way he responds to and supports fan-favorite Sunny (Shiloh Kent) cannot be understated. The tragedy of his past makes him that much stronger and leaves readers with a whole new respect for what he has been able to make himself into. He’s just the whole package.
Adding all of this together, Playing With Danger truly is the whole package of a book. This is book 2 in Riley Edwards’s Hollow Point series (spinoff of Triple Canopy, The Next Generation, and The 707). Fans of the world will recognize several pop-in characters and will appreciate the addition to the series. This is definitely one you do NOT want to miss. And make sure you block out the time because I promise that once you start reading, you won’t want to put it down until you’re all the way through. (And then you’re just gonna want to pick it back up and start again)!
October 26, 2024
From the moment Valentine Malone and Sophie Huxley collided—literally—sparks flew, setting off a chain of hilarious, heart-pounding, and unexpectedly emotional events. Playing With Danger takes readers on a wild ride filled with laugh-out-loud moments, a smoldering romance, and suspense that keeps you on edge.
Riley Edwards has once again delivered what she does best—crafting complex, relatable characters with humor, heart, and just the right amount of grit. Sophie, with her unfiltered quips and spontaneous charm, will have you giggling and rooting for her from page one. Valentine, the alpha protector with a haunted past, strikes the perfect balance between strength and vulnerability. Their chemistry is undeniable, and the connection that builds between them feels both electric and authentic.
Edwards’ signature blend of tension, drama, and deep emotional resonance is on full display. Valentine’s protective instincts and Sophie’s determination to take charge of her life make for a compelling and heartwarming dynamic. With appearances from familiar faces in the Triple Canopy and Hollow Point worlds, this book is not just a standalone joy but a delightful continuation of an interconnected series.
Playing With Danger is more than just a romance—it’s a story of two people finding themselves in each other, learning to trust and fight for love amidst danger. From sizzling scenes to tender moments, every page is filled with passion and suspense. You’ll laugh, swoon, and hang on tight until the very last word.
Riley Edwards has knocked it out of the park once again. Don’t miss this one!
Riley Edwards has once again delivered what she does best—crafting complex, relatable characters with humor, heart, and just the right amount of grit. Sophie, with her unfiltered quips and spontaneous charm, will have you giggling and rooting for her from page one. Valentine, the alpha protector with a haunted past, strikes the perfect balance between strength and vulnerability. Their chemistry is undeniable, and the connection that builds between them feels both electric and authentic.
Edwards’ signature blend of tension, drama, and deep emotional resonance is on full display. Valentine’s protective instincts and Sophie’s determination to take charge of her life make for a compelling and heartwarming dynamic. With appearances from familiar faces in the Triple Canopy and Hollow Point worlds, this book is not just a standalone joy but a delightful continuation of an interconnected series.
Playing With Danger is more than just a romance—it’s a story of two people finding themselves in each other, learning to trust and fight for love amidst danger. From sizzling scenes to tender moments, every page is filled with passion and suspense. You’ll laugh, swoon, and hang on tight until the very last word.
Riley Edwards has knocked it out of the park once again. Don’t miss this one!
August 27, 2024
Playing With Danger is the second in the Hollow Point series. While it has its share of suspense and danger along with some very hot and spicy romance, this story is heavy with emotions, family drama and dynamics. Old friends from Triple Canopy make appearances which is a happy plus. This is a compelling story and I couldn't put it down until I read the very last page.
Riley Edwards creates remarkable characters all of whom are genuinely likeable and unique but I have to say that Sophie Huxley has become one of my favorites. She's a hoot. She has no filters. She opens her mouth and blurts whatever's on her mind at the moment. Often times embarrassing herself. She's funny, forthright and a work in progress. A dramatic event has her re-evaluting her life and deciding she needs to make some changes. Some of which are big ones. Meeting Valentine Malone AKA Hot Cop (Sophie's nickname for him) just minutes before her life gets turned upside down seems serendipitous. A SWAT team member of Hollow Point PD, he's willing to put his life on the line for his teammates yet he's never shared anything about his life, a life he's ashamed and embarrassed by, with them. Sudding having the beautiful Sophie with her flashing brown eyes in his life has him doing and saying things he's always avoided. When he tries to distance himself she's not having any of it. She'll fight for them even if he doesn't. A threat from an unexpected source that I was surprised by has Valentine scrambling to keep Sophie protected.
Riley Edwards creates remarkable characters all of whom are genuinely likeable and unique but I have to say that Sophie Huxley has become one of my favorites. She's a hoot. She has no filters. She opens her mouth and blurts whatever's on her mind at the moment. Often times embarrassing herself. She's funny, forthright and a work in progress. A dramatic event has her re-evaluting her life and deciding she needs to make some changes. Some of which are big ones. Meeting Valentine Malone AKA Hot Cop (Sophie's nickname for him) just minutes before her life gets turned upside down seems serendipitous. A SWAT team member of Hollow Point PD, he's willing to put his life on the line for his teammates yet he's never shared anything about his life, a life he's ashamed and embarrassed by, with them. Sudding having the beautiful Sophie with her flashing brown eyes in his life has him doing and saying things he's always avoided. When he tries to distance himself she's not having any of it. She'll fight for them even if he doesn't. A threat from an unexpected source that I was surprised by has Valentine scrambling to keep Sophie protected.
October 11, 2024
Val and Sophie burn up the page
The Hollow Point series has all of the broody, protective, gorgeous alpha males we have come to expect from Riley Edward’s, but with a slightly different feel. Her female characters are kick a$$ as usual but I feel like her FMCs have much more depth than normal. And that is saying something since Riley usually rocks it with character development!
Case in point: Valentine is a seriously gorgeous SWAT officer who has major commitment issues and self worth (in the romance/relationship dept) issues. Intensely loyal, OTT protective, and, um, shall we say, spectacularly endowed?
Sophie is hella smart, wickedly funny, fiercely loyal and has NO filter! She has a quick wit and no problem throwing sass to the men in her life. But she has issues of her own from an over-bearing mother and absent father.
Sophie witnesses a crime and Val protects her from the fall out. In the process they see how perfect they are for each other. Sophie uses her hilarious banter and her personal conviction to batter down the mile thick walls Val has around his heart.
The snark, sass and dialogue between the characters is so funny, you will be laughing out loud. Then Riley blows us away with a twist to the ending I never saw coming!!!! I mean, seriously, wow! You have to read this one. Riley Edwards is slaying with this installment of Hollow Point and I cannot wait for the next one!!
13/10 recommend!!!
The Hollow Point series has all of the broody, protective, gorgeous alpha males we have come to expect from Riley Edward’s, but with a slightly different feel. Her female characters are kick a$$ as usual but I feel like her FMCs have much more depth than normal. And that is saying something since Riley usually rocks it with character development!
Case in point: Valentine is a seriously gorgeous SWAT officer who has major commitment issues and self worth (in the romance/relationship dept) issues. Intensely loyal, OTT protective, and, um, shall we say, spectacularly endowed?
Sophie is hella smart, wickedly funny, fiercely loyal and has NO filter! She has a quick wit and no problem throwing sass to the men in her life. But she has issues of her own from an over-bearing mother and absent father.
Sophie witnesses a crime and Val protects her from the fall out. In the process they see how perfect they are for each other. Sophie uses her hilarious banter and her personal conviction to batter down the mile thick walls Val has around his heart.
The snark, sass and dialogue between the characters is so funny, you will be laughing out loud. Then Riley blows us away with a twist to the ending I never saw coming!!!! I mean, seriously, wow! You have to read this one. Riley Edwards is slaying with this installment of Hollow Point and I cannot wait for the next one!!
13/10 recommend!!!
September 7, 2024
DO NOT READ MY HIGHLIGHTS IF YOU ARE AVOIDING SPOILERS.
As much as I wanted to hate our fmc by the middle of the book I had come to like her. 🤣 In my own life I stay away from self declared “drama queens” but it could be my age. 🥴
As always, I admit I am a huge Riley fan and so I always feel like my reviews have more bias. So disclaimer and all.
Her books are always well written, I enjoy the plot and her style. If you don’t like her books you probably won’t like this one. As she writes traditional romances with a good amount of delicious spice.
She does have a few books that are low on spice scales but she always writes that to honor the characters and their own journey. If that makes sense?
I digress. Anyhoo. The fmc and MMC run into each other for a super meet cute but nothing happens soooooo the next time they meet again, a robbery ends up happening around them. So that starts their story.
I don’t want to spoil even tho I mark this review with spoilers. Just go in blind.
MF✅
KU✅
Medium spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Hea and standalone but a part of a larger world. ✅
Fmc has mom issues. ✅
MMC has dad issues ✅
No preg for main fmc ✅ (a side character who was a main character DOES have a preg announcement. Heed that as a warning if you avoid all books w any characters getting preg)
As much as I wanted to hate our fmc by the middle of the book I had come to like her. 🤣 In my own life I stay away from self declared “drama queens” but it could be my age. 🥴
As always, I admit I am a huge Riley fan and so I always feel like my reviews have more bias. So disclaimer and all.
Her books are always well written, I enjoy the plot and her style. If you don’t like her books you probably won’t like this one. As she writes traditional romances with a good amount of delicious spice.
She does have a few books that are low on spice scales but she always writes that to honor the characters and their own journey. If that makes sense?
I digress. Anyhoo. The fmc and MMC run into each other for a super meet cute but nothing happens soooooo the next time they meet again, a robbery ends up happening around them. So that starts their story.
I don’t want to spoil even tho I mark this review with spoilers. Just go in blind.
MF✅
KU✅
Medium spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Hea and standalone but a part of a larger world. ✅
Fmc has mom issues. ✅
MMC has dad issues ✅
No preg for main fmc ✅ (a side character who was a main character DOES have a preg announcement. Heed that as a warning if you avoid all books w any characters getting preg)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 29, 2024
Sophie Huxley has been having a tough week. Who is she kidding, she's been having a tough few years! After a recent breakup, she's determined to revamp her life but who knew that it would involve an attempted robbery at the store where she was picking up a bottle of wine? Enter into the picture local SWAT officer Valentine Malone. If you have been reading Riley Edwards books before, you'll remember him as Shiloh Kent Marcou's partner from Imperfect (TC #3). Valentine has bumped into Sophie a few times. He's surprised that his trip to the local liquor store ends up in a robbery and Sophie getting injured. They both don't plan to see each other again but a shower mishap at Sophie's apartment leaves her getting a big eyeful of Valentine! Playing With Danger starts off like a rom com but quickly evolves into a lot of angst. I thought that Sophie had some baggage but it is nothing compared to the mounds of emotional baggage that Valentine has been carrying around. They're good together and really balance each other out well. Now where's that suspense that Riley Edwards is famous for? Don't worry it's coming! The last third of the book is where that action lies and it is worth the wait. I enjoyed Playing With Danger. It was told from dual POV and it is loaded with angst and heat.
September 2, 2024
Valentine and Sophie
I devoured this book. I love that it’s a standalone, but with a character who has ties to past main characters. Valentine made an excellent main character. I was not expecting his heartbreaking back story but it explained his resistance to letting people close.
As much as I loved Valentine, I think I loved Sophie more. She was so sweet and funny and completely enamored with Valentine. She had her own hurdles to deal with, but after a life changing situation, she took it upon herself to find her happiness and hold on to it. Sophie fought hard for Valentine. I really liked her strength of character and loved her ability to read Valentine so well.
Valentine was everything you’d expect a SWAT officer to be. Protective, alpha, larger than life, but he hid his vulnerabilities behind a wall he thought was indestructible until Sophie bounced into his chest in the grocery store. He felt an immediate connection to her and it took a lot of self reflection to come to terms with his feelings.
I really enjoyed this book. It made me laugh, made me cry, and it was just the right amount of spicy and suspenseful. The villain was pretty obvious to me early on, but I never would have guessed at the twist that led to the excitement at the end.
I devoured this book. I love that it’s a standalone, but with a character who has ties to past main characters. Valentine made an excellent main character. I was not expecting his heartbreaking back story but it explained his resistance to letting people close.
As much as I loved Valentine, I think I loved Sophie more. She was so sweet and funny and completely enamored with Valentine. She had her own hurdles to deal with, but after a life changing situation, she took it upon herself to find her happiness and hold on to it. Sophie fought hard for Valentine. I really liked her strength of character and loved her ability to read Valentine so well.
Valentine was everything you’d expect a SWAT officer to be. Protective, alpha, larger than life, but he hid his vulnerabilities behind a wall he thought was indestructible until Sophie bounced into his chest in the grocery store. He felt an immediate connection to her and it took a lot of self reflection to come to terms with his feelings.
I really enjoyed this book. It made me laugh, made me cry, and it was just the right amount of spicy and suspenseful. The villain was pretty obvious to me early on, but I never would have guessed at the twist that led to the excitement at the end.
October 29, 2024
The start of the book was hilarious. I really enjoyed it and nearly laughed my ass off. The walked-in-on-him-in-shower scene WAS. A. PERFECTION.
Then the middle of the book was dedicated to main characters relationship development. This part got a little draggy, the plot halted and nothing was happening, which got a little boring, however we got some hot rabbit sex and leads were actually pretty cute together.
Then suddenly some plot points got untangled really fast in a final action, however the situation got resolved so quickly I didn't even properly noticed there was any action at all and afterwards suddenly all issues got magically resolved and all was peachy... And this got closed with one final hot sex scene.
Um, I can't say it was bad, there wasn't anything plainly wrong, I actually really enjoyed the book, I liked the characters, we got some peak at characters from other series. But there was maybe a little bit more potential for this one? Nevertheless, still an enjoyable book.
September 1, 2024
Sighs... just not as engaging for me as the first one.
I felt like I was expected to know both Valentine and Sophie at the start of the book. I think I probably wanted more of a build up of who they were, rather than jumping straight into... well, the sex.
I have unanswered questions... and these are not the sort where the author has left it up to the reader to make a decision. These are questions that have black and white answers.
I found a lot of this to be 'convenient'. What I do like, even though we have moved onto a new series, is that we get drop-ins from other familiar characters. Nice to have a cameo from Liberty in this one!
I didn't get the whole pseudo what felt like wannabe BDSM stuff. But frankly, I tend to skim over a lot of the sex scenes. There are only so many ways to skin a cat. And bizarrely, I mainly read for the 'plot'!
High hopes for the next... whoever Tim is... mebbe I missed something? I thought it might be Hayden. Ah well.
I felt like I was expected to know both Valentine and Sophie at the start of the book. I think I probably wanted more of a build up of who they were, rather than jumping straight into... well, the sex.
I have unanswered questions... and these are not the sort where the author has left it up to the reader to make a decision. These are questions that have black and white answers.
I found a lot of this to be 'convenient'. What I do like, even though we have moved onto a new series, is that we get drop-ins from other familiar characters. Nice to have a cameo from Liberty in this one!
I didn't get the whole pseudo what felt like wannabe BDSM stuff. But frankly, I tend to skim over a lot of the sex scenes. There are only so many ways to skin a cat. And bizarrely, I mainly read for the 'plot'!
High hopes for the next... whoever Tim is... mebbe I missed something? I thought it might be Hayden. Ah well.
September 9, 2024
Sophie and Valentine
Sophie is kind, sweet and tired of being told what to do by her mother. She gets distracted on the phone with her mom and accidentally bumps into Valentine at the grocery store in the spaghetti isle. He's got a blessedly rock hard chest, easy on the eyes. He makes her anxious which leads her to knock over part of a display. A week later they meet in a liquor store in the wine isle. Words are exchanged again, he flusters her but before anything can happen they are involved in an attempted robbery where Sophie ends fighting with one of the would be robbers. Valentine kind of feels bad but Sophie won't let him think he's responsible. The dance around each other is awesome, but the shower scene.. Man it had me in stitches. Theses two have a few things to work out but getting there is a good read. Don't count out her bestie Hayden either. The one liners between these two is definitely worth the read. Great read.
Sophie is kind, sweet and tired of being told what to do by her mother. She gets distracted on the phone with her mom and accidentally bumps into Valentine at the grocery store in the spaghetti isle. He's got a blessedly rock hard chest, easy on the eyes. He makes her anxious which leads her to knock over part of a display. A week later they meet in a liquor store in the wine isle. Words are exchanged again, he flusters her but before anything can happen they are involved in an attempted robbery where Sophie ends fighting with one of the would be robbers. Valentine kind of feels bad but Sophie won't let him think he's responsible. The dance around each other is awesome, but the shower scene.. Man it had me in stitches. Theses two have a few things to work out but getting there is a good read. Don't count out her bestie Hayden either. The one liners between these two is definitely worth the read. Great read.
September 2, 2024
This book is more a romance than an adventure/suspense book. There is suspense; there is adventure, just a little bit less than the usual Riley Edwards´s books. It certainly doesn’t mean the book is not great: because trust me, it is amazing. Riley just gets better in getting into people´s mind. Her characters have such an emotional depth that it always amazes me.
Great book! Great writing! Just couldn´t stop reading.
Get yourself comfortable, clean your agenda and just have fun!
Esse livro, diferente de outros livros da autora, traz mais romance que aventura/suspense. Isso não significa que que o livro não seja bom; pelo contrario: é excelente. A capacidade de Riley de descrever as emoções de seus personagens é impressionante! Eles possuem uma profundidade que não é comum de encontrar! Simplesmente não consegui parar de ler ate termina-lo!
Ótimo livro! Divirta-se!
Great book! Great writing! Just couldn´t stop reading.
Get yourself comfortable, clean your agenda and just have fun!
Esse livro, diferente de outros livros da autora, traz mais romance que aventura/suspense. Isso não significa que que o livro não seja bom; pelo contrario: é excelente. A capacidade de Riley de descrever as emoções de seus personagens é impressionante! Eles possuem uma profundidade que não é comum de encontrar! Simplesmente não consegui parar de ler ate termina-lo!
Ótimo livro! Divirta-se!
September 5, 2024
I just finished reading this captivating romance novel, and I'm still reeling from the whirlwind of emotions it took me on. The story follows Sophie, a woman whose life is turned upside down after a series of chance meetings with Valentine Malone, a charming and mysterious SWAT officer.
Despite the awkward beginnings, their connection deepens, and Sophie finds herself drawn to Valentine's kind and protective nature.
As their relationship blossoms, Sophie's life is threatened by secrets from her own family's past, and Valentine must use his skills to keep her safe. But he harbors secrets of his own, which could jeopardize their love.
With its unique blend of humor, heart, and intrigue, it will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Despite the awkward beginnings, their connection deepens, and Sophie finds herself drawn to Valentine's kind and protective nature.
As their relationship blossoms, Sophie's life is threatened by secrets from her own family's past, and Valentine must use his skills to keep her safe. But he harbors secrets of his own, which could jeopardize their love.
With its unique blend of humor, heart, and intrigue, it will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 18, 2024
Ugh I loved this story!
Valentine & Sophie were so perfect for one another.
He was battling demons from his past with the death of his mother & sister, whilst dealing with a father who had basically abandoned him. Growing up, he became apart of SWAT with Shiloh becoming one of the best. But a liquor store hold him has him running into Sophie yet again & it was fate that had them in each other’s paths again.
Sophie had her life flash before her eyes & immediately makes changes in her life. But when fate throws Valentine in her path she’s finding it hard to ignore her feelings.
When Sophie is in danger, Valentine does everything in his power to find her & help her.
Their relationship was so sweet because they were both something they each needed & were able to help each other.
I absolutely loved this book & am so excited to see what happens next.
Amazing job!
Valentine & Sophie were so perfect for one another.
He was battling demons from his past with the death of his mother & sister, whilst dealing with a father who had basically abandoned him. Growing up, he became apart of SWAT with Shiloh becoming one of the best. But a liquor store hold him has him running into Sophie yet again & it was fate that had them in each other’s paths again.
Sophie had her life flash before her eyes & immediately makes changes in her life. But when fate throws Valentine in her path she’s finding it hard to ignore her feelings.
When Sophie is in danger, Valentine does everything in his power to find her & help her.
Their relationship was so sweet because they were both something they each needed & were able to help each other.
I absolutely loved this book & am so excited to see what happens next.
Amazing job!
February 18, 2025
Playing With Danger
Wow! Another great story by Riley! This story is about Sophie and Valentine. Gotta say, Sophie is a hoot! She made me laugh throughout this book. She definitely has a sassy attitude. When she meets Valentine, she is literally falling in front of him. The next time they meet is during a robbery at the liquor store. Sophie decided then to take her life back and fought the robber. This couple's relationship basically started then. Sophie said whatever came to her mind with really no filter. I loved her from the beginning. The ending was pretty intense when we find out she had a sister who hated her. It was the saddest part of this story. Glad Sophie was able to make amends with her mother and get Hayden to stop ignoring her. So happy Sophie and Valentine got their happy ending. FANTASTIC job Riley! I would highly recommend this book!
Wow! Another great story by Riley! This story is about Sophie and Valentine. Gotta say, Sophie is a hoot! She made me laugh throughout this book. She definitely has a sassy attitude. When she meets Valentine, she is literally falling in front of him. The next time they meet is during a robbery at the liquor store. Sophie decided then to take her life back and fought the robber. This couple's relationship basically started then. Sophie said whatever came to her mind with really no filter. I loved her from the beginning. The ending was pretty intense when we find out she had a sister who hated her. It was the saddest part of this story. Glad Sophie was able to make amends with her mother and get Hayden to stop ignoring her. So happy Sophie and Valentine got their happy ending. FANTASTIC job Riley! I would highly recommend this book!
September 1, 2024
everything
A one sitting read, this book drags you in and keeps you on edge throughout.
The sweetest words, wrapped up in steam, grit and determination - and that’s before we actually get to the danger part of the book….
Ms Edwards writes flawed characters so well - be it the H or the h - and then matches them with the person they never knew they needed and gives words to the most awesome story whilst slowly weaving a devastatingly wonderful hea.
Deep and hard in places with lots of soul searching, the plot is fantastic and carries the weight of delivering such an amazing story brilliantly. We get everything we want and need in this book. Heart stopping romance, laugh out loud moments, some of the old guard come out to play 😘 and a breath stealing conclusion
A one sitting read, this book drags you in and keeps you on edge throughout.
The sweetest words, wrapped up in steam, grit and determination - and that’s before we actually get to the danger part of the book….
Ms Edwards writes flawed characters so well - be it the H or the h - and then matches them with the person they never knew they needed and gives words to the most awesome story whilst slowly weaving a devastatingly wonderful hea.
Deep and hard in places with lots of soul searching, the plot is fantastic and carries the weight of delivering such an amazing story brilliantly. We get everything we want and need in this book. Heart stopping romance, laugh out loud moments, some of the old guard come out to play 😘 and a breath stealing conclusion
September 5, 2024
Sophie is a web designer.
Valentine is a police officer SWAT.
Khloe is Sophie’s half sister.
Sophie and Valentine were acquainted at the grocery store meeting being a bit awkward and uncomfortable. Their is chemistry and attraction an a slow burn to igniting to sparks to fireworks.
Once they start dating things were very fast paced.
Sophie’s roommate, Hayden are best friends, but his date, Khloe ( hates Sophie).
This all centers around Sophie’s Dad’s passing and his estate.
Can Valentine, police Dept and Triple Canopy keep Sophie safe? Can they have a Happily Ever After?
This book has edge of your seat danger, intrigue, a second chance at love.
Great Job Riley Edwards you never disappoint !!!?.
Valentine is a police officer SWAT.
Khloe is Sophie’s half sister.
Sophie and Valentine were acquainted at the grocery store meeting being a bit awkward and uncomfortable. Their is chemistry and attraction an a slow burn to igniting to sparks to fireworks.
Once they start dating things were very fast paced.
Sophie’s roommate, Hayden are best friends, but his date, Khloe ( hates Sophie).
This all centers around Sophie’s Dad’s passing and his estate.
Can Valentine, police Dept and Triple Canopy keep Sophie safe? Can they have a Happily Ever After?
This book has edge of your seat danger, intrigue, a second chance at love.
Great Job Riley Edwards you never disappoint !!!?.
July 2, 2025
Playing, but for keeps
Valentine and Sophie. W meet Valentine with Sunny and Luke’s story as he is a member of her SWAT team and took a major injury during one of their police actions. Now he is back and has a unique meeting with Sophie over several funny and quirky settings. Their attraction grows, but Sophie is in danger but doesn’t know it and Valentine has some heavy emotional baggage. We see Triple Canopy characters, new family and friends (Hayden is a hoot), SWAT characters and more in this spin off series. The ending comes with down major drama and harm, but ends with the HEA we all want. The set up for the next book brings back another mentioned character in both the female and male leads!
Valentine and Sophie. W meet Valentine with Sunny and Luke’s story as he is a member of her SWAT team and took a major injury during one of their police actions. Now he is back and has a unique meeting with Sophie over several funny and quirky settings. Their attraction grows, but Sophie is in danger but doesn’t know it and Valentine has some heavy emotional baggage. We see Triple Canopy characters, new family and friends (Hayden is a hoot), SWAT characters and more in this spin off series. The ending comes with down major drama and harm, but ends with the HEA we all want. The set up for the next book brings back another mentioned character in both the female and male leads!
August 28, 2024
Sophie and Valentine are my new favorite couple! I’m pretty sure I say this after reading every one of her books but Riley Edwards has a way of writing that draws you in and shows you the beauty and the not so nice parts of people and you can’t help but fall in love as her characters do. She does this with humor and truth and stirs the mix just right. Sophie has a wicked witch of a mother who lets her know she’s not doing what she should be doing. And how to do it. Valentine has a huge set of baggage of his own that he’s kept packed for over 20 years. Things aren’t easy for our couple but the journey is quite interesting.
August 31, 2024
No one brings levity and humor to a romantic suspense quite like Riley. This story had me giggling from the start.
Sophie and Valentine keep running into each other in awkward situations. Eventually they go out which leads to building a relationship together. The story ends with suspense followed by a HEA.
Both of the MCs work through family issues in a way that feels realistic. Sophie's roommate and best friend is male and it was so will written and developed. This book is the second in the series but can be read as a standalone.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Sophie and Valentine keep running into each other in awkward situations. Eventually they go out which leads to building a relationship together. The story ends with suspense followed by a HEA.
Both of the MCs work through family issues in a way that feels realistic. Sophie's roommate and best friend is male and it was so will written and developed. This book is the second in the series but can be read as a standalone.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 2, 2024
Loved this book!
I loved this story of Sophie and Valentine! They meet at the grocery store on a Friday night. They keep running into each other after that. Sophie thinks her roommate Hayden is in the shower and goes to dump cold water on him. Only to find Valentine in her shower! Their chemistry is fire. They are both a little damaged. But something in themselves heals the other. Their journey isn't easy but they find their way together. I love this book and series! I highly recommend! You can never go wrong with a book from Riley Edwards. Her alpha protective males and her kick ass heroines are the best!
I loved this story of Sophie and Valentine! They meet at the grocery store on a Friday night. They keep running into each other after that. Sophie thinks her roommate Hayden is in the shower and goes to dump cold water on him. Only to find Valentine in her shower! Their chemistry is fire. They are both a little damaged. But something in themselves heals the other. Their journey isn't easy but they find their way together. I love this book and series! I highly recommend! You can never go wrong with a book from Riley Edwards. Her alpha protective males and her kick ass heroines are the best!
September 3, 2024
Oh my goodness, these two are so great together and the shower scene….laughed so hard my tummy ached. Valentine, bumps into Sophie at the grocery store, which had me chuckling and then another time that ended not so great….now the third time…..not going to spoil it as it has to be read.
A great read with steam, suspense, surprises, twists and turns, laugh out moments and great characters. Valentine…will you be my Valentine…loved the no drama between them, the flow of the story and once again this author delivers a read I couldn’t put down.
*I voluntarily read an advanced copy and expressed my honest opinion*
A great read with steam, suspense, surprises, twists and turns, laugh out moments and great characters. Valentine…will you be my Valentine…loved the no drama between them, the flow of the story and once again this author delivers a read I couldn’t put down.
*I voluntarily read an advanced copy and expressed my honest opinion*
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