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Four X's Group: La Spezia #1
Gunnar: Edizione Italiana (The Four X's Group: La Spezia - Edizione Italiana Vol. 1)
La guerra non forgia gli eroi, li rivela.
L'ex SEAL Gunnar McKinley sa meglio di chiunque altro che la guerra mostra anche i punti deboli di un matrimonio, e porta al divorzio. Ha i suoi fratelli, la sua azienda, le sue squadre… più di quanto un uomo possa chiedere. Ha tutto, tranne qualcuno da amare. Ha anche un bersaglio sulla schiena.
Jorja Buchanan ama la sua vita. Cercare oggetti d’antiquariato e partecipare alle aste di dipinti rari è la sua passione, ed è brava nel suo lavoro. Soprattutto quando si tratta di entrare in posti in cui non dovrebbe entrare. Case d’asta, siti web, elenchi... le basta un nome e lei potrà mettere un cliente sulla lista degli offerenti. Conduce la vita che desidera, finché, costretta a scavare più a fondo, non trova un elenco di nomi che la porteranno a un uomo del suo passato, con la speranza di riuscire a raggiungerlo in tempo.
Gunnar si è già scottato in passato e Jorja non cerca l’amore… ma ritrovarsi è esattamente ciò di cui i loro cuori hanno bisogno. Mentre il desiderio si trasforma in un amore pieno di passione, il pericolo incombe. Riusciranno a sopravvivere alle conseguenze della lista che li ha fatti incontrare?
Basta un solo click per leggere questo dirompente e romantico military suspense, con un maschio alfa, un’eroina forte, colpi di scena, pericoli, momenti di pura ilarità e amore! Il lieto fine è garantito.
L'ex SEAL Gunnar McKinley sa meglio di chiunque altro che la guerra mostra anche i punti deboli di un matrimonio, e porta al divorzio. Ha i suoi fratelli, la sua azienda, le sue squadre… più di quanto un uomo possa chiedere. Ha tutto, tranne qualcuno da amare. Ha anche un bersaglio sulla schiena.
Jorja Buchanan ama la sua vita. Cercare oggetti d’antiquariato e partecipare alle aste di dipinti rari è la sua passione, ed è brava nel suo lavoro. Soprattutto quando si tratta di entrare in posti in cui non dovrebbe entrare. Case d’asta, siti web, elenchi... le basta un nome e lei potrà mettere un cliente sulla lista degli offerenti. Conduce la vita che desidera, finché, costretta a scavare più a fondo, non trova un elenco di nomi che la porteranno a un uomo del suo passato, con la speranza di riuscire a raggiungerlo in tempo.
Gunnar si è già scottato in passato e Jorja non cerca l’amore… ma ritrovarsi è esattamente ciò di cui i loro cuori hanno bisogno. Mentre il desiderio si trasforma in un amore pieno di passione, il pericolo incombe. Riusciranno a sopravvivere alle conseguenze della lista che li ha fatti incontrare?
Basta un solo click per leggere questo dirompente e romantico military suspense, con un maschio alfa, un’eroina forte, colpi di scena, pericoli, momenti di pura ilarità e amore! Il lieto fine è garantito.
346 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 8, 2024
797 people are currently reading
215 people want to read
About the author
Bella Stone
24 books149 followersBella Stone is the MF Pen name for Annabella Stone, all books published under this name are MF/MMF.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
January 1, 2026
SPOILERS!!!!
A bit too cheesy for me but some folks may like it.
MMC & his brothers own a security firm or something that do secret government work. He is in his mid 40's and an ex-seal or army soldier.
FMC is a tech savvy antiques dealer (or something) who who scouts the black market for gem finds for her clients. I think she is a few years younger than him as it was referenced that they went to HS together and she was the geek that he never noticed and he the popular rich dude. Their Mothers are friends or friendly.
Anyhoo, FMC while scouting out the blackmarket, finds a thread in which the MMC's name is listed among men that were recently killed and she thinks he is next so she decides to find him and warn him.
This was mostly a fluff piece of insta-love with some laughs & giggles added in and a brief disappointing drama towards the end where FMC gets kidnapped and MMC & his brothers have to rescue her - all without any fanfare and quickly resolved.
There's no dramalama from OW or OM. MMC is divorced (as well as all his brothers. Lol) and his bitchy ex-wife makes one appearance over the phone to shout abuse at him and FMC takes his phone to blast her. That's the only time OW comes into play.
There's also a pregnancy scare towards the end which turns out false and MCs are relieved but state they will start a family one day when they are ready. Uhm...they are in their 40's, when will that be?
FMC does end up with a cat (and possibly more in the future) and an engagement ring with a very shaky MMC proposing on bended knee.
We also have a POV of one of the MMC's brothers in the end which I assume he is the next Hero... I did like this brother more than any of the others as he had a nice relationship with the FMC but was disappointed that after she gets rescued, we don't have any more scenes between them or with any other of the brothers who seemed too closed/indifferent to FMC.
A bit too cheesy for me but some folks may like it.
MMC & his brothers own a security firm or something that do secret government work. He is in his mid 40's and an ex-seal or army soldier.
FMC is a tech savvy antiques dealer (or something) who who scouts the black market for gem finds for her clients. I think she is a few years younger than him as it was referenced that they went to HS together and she was the geek that he never noticed and he the popular rich dude. Their Mothers are friends or friendly.
Anyhoo, FMC while scouting out the blackmarket, finds a thread in which the MMC's name is listed among men that were recently killed and she thinks he is next so she decides to find him and warn him.
This was mostly a fluff piece of insta-love with some laughs & giggles added in and a brief disappointing drama towards the end where FMC gets kidnapped and MMC & his brothers have to rescue her - all without any fanfare and quickly resolved.
There's no dramalama from OW or OM. MMC is divorced (as well as all his brothers. Lol) and his bitchy ex-wife makes one appearance over the phone to shout abuse at him and FMC takes his phone to blast her. That's the only time OW comes into play.
There's also a pregnancy scare towards the end which turns out false and MCs are relieved but state they will start a family one day when they are ready. Uhm...they are in their 40's, when will that be?
FMC does end up with a cat (and possibly more in the future) and an engagement ring with a very shaky MMC proposing on bended knee.
We also have a POV of one of the MMC's brothers in the end which I assume he is the next Hero... I did like this brother more than any of the others as he had a nice relationship with the FMC but was disappointed that after she gets rescued, we don't have any more scenes between them or with any other of the brothers who seemed too closed/indifferent to FMC.
January 8, 2026
Gunnar by Bella Stone is the kind of military romantic suspense that grabs you by the collar and refuses to let go—equal parts danger, desire, and deeply human connection.
Gunnar McKinley is a man shaped by war and loss. A former SEAL turned CEO of the powerful Four X’s Group, he’s built a life around loyalty, discipline, and control after learning the hard way how badly love can burn. He has his brothers, his elite teams, and a reputation that commands respect—but he’s also alone, worn down by years of battle both on and off the field, and unknowingly marked for death.
Jorja Buchanan is nothing like the women Gunnar expects—or wants. Brilliant, sharp-tongued, and fiercely independent, she thrives in the shadows of the art world, hunting rare treasures and hacking her way into places she shouldn’t be. She doesn’t need saving, doesn’t want romance, and definitely doesn’t plan on getting tangled up with a grumpy, bossy alpha from her past. But when a name resurfaces on a dark web hit list, Jorja does what she’s always done: digs deeper, even when it puts her directly in Gunnar’s path.
What unfolds is a high-octane, slow-burn collision of two guarded souls who don’t trust easily—but respect deeply. Gunnar and Jorja clash hard, spark hotter, and push each other in ways that strip away old defenses. Their banter is sharp, their chemistry explosive, and their connection built not on rescue fantasies, but on mutual strength, loyalty, and choice. Gunnar may look like steel on the outside, but beneath the scars is a man capable of devotion, while Jorja proves that independence and vulnerability can coexist beautifully.
Stone shines in her portrayal of found family through the Four X’s brothers—gruff, protective, suspicious, and impossible not to love. The suspense builds steadily before erupting into signature Bella Stone chaos: bullets fly, secrets explode, and the pace goes from zero to full throttle in seconds. The danger feels real, the stakes personal, and the payoff deeply satisfying.
Gunnar is not just the start of a new series—it’s a statement. With a strong heroine who doesn’t need fixing, an alpha hero learning to open his heart, and a story packed with action, heat, humor, and heart, this book delivers a thrilling ride and a rock-solid HEA.
If you love military romance with edge, intelligent heroines, found-family vibes, and chemistry that crackles under pressure, Gunnar is absolutely worth the one-click. And once you meet the Four X’s, you’ll be counting the days until the next brother falls.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Gunnar McKinley is a man shaped by war and loss. A former SEAL turned CEO of the powerful Four X’s Group, he’s built a life around loyalty, discipline, and control after learning the hard way how badly love can burn. He has his brothers, his elite teams, and a reputation that commands respect—but he’s also alone, worn down by years of battle both on and off the field, and unknowingly marked for death.
Jorja Buchanan is nothing like the women Gunnar expects—or wants. Brilliant, sharp-tongued, and fiercely independent, she thrives in the shadows of the art world, hunting rare treasures and hacking her way into places she shouldn’t be. She doesn’t need saving, doesn’t want romance, and definitely doesn’t plan on getting tangled up with a grumpy, bossy alpha from her past. But when a name resurfaces on a dark web hit list, Jorja does what she’s always done: digs deeper, even when it puts her directly in Gunnar’s path.
What unfolds is a high-octane, slow-burn collision of two guarded souls who don’t trust easily—but respect deeply. Gunnar and Jorja clash hard, spark hotter, and push each other in ways that strip away old defenses. Their banter is sharp, their chemistry explosive, and their connection built not on rescue fantasies, but on mutual strength, loyalty, and choice. Gunnar may look like steel on the outside, but beneath the scars is a man capable of devotion, while Jorja proves that independence and vulnerability can coexist beautifully.
Stone shines in her portrayal of found family through the Four X’s brothers—gruff, protective, suspicious, and impossible not to love. The suspense builds steadily before erupting into signature Bella Stone chaos: bullets fly, secrets explode, and the pace goes from zero to full throttle in seconds. The danger feels real, the stakes personal, and the payoff deeply satisfying.
Gunnar is not just the start of a new series—it’s a statement. With a strong heroine who doesn’t need fixing, an alpha hero learning to open his heart, and a story packed with action, heat, humor, and heart, this book delivers a thrilling ride and a rock-solid HEA.
If you love military romance with edge, intelligent heroines, found-family vibes, and chemistry that crackles under pressure, Gunnar is absolutely worth the one-click. And once you meet the Four X’s, you’ll be counting the days until the next brother falls.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 18, 2026
🎧 Audiobook Review 🎧
Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Performance: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️️
Story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️️
I started with the second volume of the series and was therefore very curious about the first volume. First things first: my high expectations were met.
The author has a great writing style that drew me right into the story as a reader. Once I started listening, I couldn't put the audiobook down.
Jorja Buchanan is a likeable, strong, and independent woman who often searches the dark web for rare treasures from the art world. In doing so, she comes across a death list that includes a name she knows. But to warn Gunnar McKinley, she has to travel to Italy, because he can't be found on the internet. Gunnar is a former SEAL and now heads the Four X's Group. He has scars, both physical and emotional, and after the failure of his marriage, he is very skeptical about women.
The story is very entertaining, action-packed, exciting, and romantic, yet full of passion, humor, and heart. The audiobook hours just flew by. This was partly due to the storyline and partly due to the great chemistry between the main characters.
Gunnar and Jorja are two very contrasting but very lovable characters who both hold their shields very high. I thought their verbal sparring was great and their chemistry explosive. They also have an equal connection, because it is based on being able to rely on each other. The story starts off rather leisurely, but the tension increases significantly towards the end.
The audiobook was narrated by Marcio Catalano and June deBorahae, whom I had not heard of before. They both did a great job and brought the story to life. Their narration was varied and they perfectly captured both the voices and the emotions.
And now I need more from the brothers of the Four X's Group.
Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Performance: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️️
Story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️️
I started with the second volume of the series and was therefore very curious about the first volume. First things first: my high expectations were met.
The author has a great writing style that drew me right into the story as a reader. Once I started listening, I couldn't put the audiobook down.
Jorja Buchanan is a likeable, strong, and independent woman who often searches the dark web for rare treasures from the art world. In doing so, she comes across a death list that includes a name she knows. But to warn Gunnar McKinley, she has to travel to Italy, because he can't be found on the internet. Gunnar is a former SEAL and now heads the Four X's Group. He has scars, both physical and emotional, and after the failure of his marriage, he is very skeptical about women.
The story is very entertaining, action-packed, exciting, and romantic, yet full of passion, humor, and heart. The audiobook hours just flew by. This was partly due to the storyline and partly due to the great chemistry between the main characters.
Gunnar and Jorja are two very contrasting but very lovable characters who both hold their shields very high. I thought their verbal sparring was great and their chemistry explosive. They also have an equal connection, because it is based on being able to rely on each other. The story starts off rather leisurely, but the tension increases significantly towards the end.
The audiobook was narrated by Marcio Catalano and June deBorahae, whom I had not heard of before. They both did a great job and brought the story to life. Their narration was varied and they perfectly captured both the voices and the emotions.
And now I need more from the brothers of the Four X's Group.
February 27, 2024
Not surprisingly, this is another winner.
Bella Stone has restored my faith in MF suspense/military romance with female characters who don't need a man, who don't need to be rescued or romanced by an uber-Hero. She writes female characters with a spine of steele, wit, humor and who are independent and confident on their own.
Jorja is such a character. She may not be perfect, she spends far too much time on the dark web and has no close friends. But she doesn't think twice about helping out when a former school friend appears on a hit list.
Enter stage - the Four Xs. A group of brothers who are now out of the military and working privately. They are grumpy, protective of their family and teams, suspicious of anything sounding too good to be true and definitely don't want a woman in their lives.
Yes, Gunnar is a case of take over first, ask questions later and more than just headbutted with Jorja about it. But deep down he is also not perfect and actually a soft marshmallow.
These two are great together, they spar, they fight and they learn to let romance in. Both have a great sense of humor and I enjoy reading how their relationship develops.
This is a start of a new series so you have a good amount of the book setting the scene, introducing the characters and the main story line is a bit of a set-back for a while. But it definitely pick up and in typical Ms Stone fashion, things blow up, get shot and you need to hold the edge of your seat to catch up, her tempo of action telling only has one setting - very fast.
It's very much a case of found family these four brothers have gathered together, you want to know the stories of each of them and especially you want to know the kind of woman they will find.
I can't wait for the next book.
Bella Stone has restored my faith in MF suspense/military romance with female characters who don't need a man, who don't need to be rescued or romanced by an uber-Hero. She writes female characters with a spine of steele, wit, humor and who are independent and confident on their own.
Jorja is such a character. She may not be perfect, she spends far too much time on the dark web and has no close friends. But she doesn't think twice about helping out when a former school friend appears on a hit list.
Enter stage - the Four Xs. A group of brothers who are now out of the military and working privately. They are grumpy, protective of their family and teams, suspicious of anything sounding too good to be true and definitely don't want a woman in their lives.
Yes, Gunnar is a case of take over first, ask questions later and more than just headbutted with Jorja about it. But deep down he is also not perfect and actually a soft marshmallow.
These two are great together, they spar, they fight and they learn to let romance in. Both have a great sense of humor and I enjoy reading how their relationship develops.
This is a start of a new series so you have a good amount of the book setting the scene, introducing the characters and the main story line is a bit of a set-back for a while. But it definitely pick up and in typical Ms Stone fashion, things blow up, get shot and you need to hold the edge of your seat to catch up, her tempo of action telling only has one setting - very fast.
It's very much a case of found family these four brothers have gathered together, you want to know the stories of each of them and especially you want to know the kind of woman they will find.
I can't wait for the next book.
February 28, 2024
Gunnar is the first book in the Four X's Group series. Wow! What a way to start. Bella Stone introduced Gunnar in Draven (Nemesis Inc, Bravo Team, Book 3.) He's a man with impressive connections and a solid Black Ops team that include his three brothers; Colt, Remi and Talon. You'll get to know them a bit in this book. I like all of them immensely. Ms Stone has the ability to put you right in the middle of the action with her vivid and detailed descriptions. Great suspense, intrigue and lots of spicy sizzle await you in Gunnar!
Gunnar McKinley is the CEO of thr Four X's Group. He's a hard bitten warrior with a boatload of physical and emotional baggage. At 45, he's starting to pay for the years of punishment he's inflicted on his body. He's also wary of relationships and females in general, thanks to his gold digging ex. Jorja Buchanan is an acquisitions finder. She loves discoverng hidden gems for the wealthy. Spending most of her time at her computer has isolated her from making friends and really living life. Her job requires finesse and excellent computer skills. Stumbling on a name from her past has her digging for more and eventually traveling from Germany to Italy in order to locate the man. Her reintroduction to Gunnar isn't exactly how she pictured it happening. He's bossy, grumpy and maddening. He's also gorgeous and irresistible. They manage to raise one another's hackles on a routine basis but the white hot chemistry between them lights up the room. She slowly starts to break down his walls and crawls under his defenses. They're destined to be together but first must figure out why his name in on a list in the dark web.
Gunnar McKinley is the CEO of thr Four X's Group. He's a hard bitten warrior with a boatload of physical and emotional baggage. At 45, he's starting to pay for the years of punishment he's inflicted on his body. He's also wary of relationships and females in general, thanks to his gold digging ex. Jorja Buchanan is an acquisitions finder. She loves discoverng hidden gems for the wealthy. Spending most of her time at her computer has isolated her from making friends and really living life. Her job requires finesse and excellent computer skills. Stumbling on a name from her past has her digging for more and eventually traveling from Germany to Italy in order to locate the man. Her reintroduction to Gunnar isn't exactly how she pictured it happening. He's bossy, grumpy and maddening. He's also gorgeous and irresistible. They manage to raise one another's hackles on a routine basis but the white hot chemistry between them lights up the room. She slowly starts to break down his walls and crawls under his defenses. They're destined to be together but first must figure out why his name in on a list in the dark web.
September 24, 2024
I enjoy this author's writing, no matter which name she uses.
This is a Military story with no action until near the end. It's about two people not trusting each other. The secondary characters really add to the drama of all kinds of different personalities trying to work together. What they do have for each other is respect and loyalty.
As with most military stories, crude words are used often and a few Lords' name in vain.
I loved how the h's mom was so frantic when she couldn't locate her daughter. It was something I would do if I was worried about my child. Another laugh out loud moment was when the h talked on the phone, with the H's ex. Priceless!
Some violence, tense situations, suspense, intrigue, some romance, a lot of steam outside of marriage, heat level 5 out of 5. No cheating, no cliffhanger, nice set up for the next story (which I've purchased), and HEA.
I can't improve on the blurb, just giving you extra tidbits to decide whether to purchase. (ljb)
This is a Military story with no action until near the end. It's about two people not trusting each other. The secondary characters really add to the drama of all kinds of different personalities trying to work together. What they do have for each other is respect and loyalty.
As with most military stories, crude words are used often and a few Lords' name in vain.
I loved how the h's mom was so frantic when she couldn't locate her daughter. It was something I would do if I was worried about my child. Another laugh out loud moment was when the h talked on the phone, with the H's ex. Priceless!
Some violence, tense situations, suspense, intrigue, some romance, a lot of steam outside of marriage, heat level 5 out of 5. No cheating, no cliffhanger, nice set up for the next story (which I've purchased), and HEA.
I can't improve on the blurb, just giving you extra tidbits to decide whether to purchase. (ljb)
March 9, 2025
Really Good, but with some Questions.
The suspense was good and kept me engaged. I liked all the side brothers/characters and look forward to reading their stories. I liked both grouchy leader-protector, Gunnar, and sassy, hacker, tech-girl Jorja, too.
The cons were the insta-love on Gunnar's part, the inst-acceptance of all the guys to Jorja, and the 10 years between Gunnar and Jorja? How could she have a crush on him back in HS, and know how all the other "mean girls" were after him, when he wouldn't have even been around when she was in school? If she grew up poor, and he was rich with a butler, how did their mothers know and like each other? And why was Jorja living in Germany? She couldn't do her online job back in the States, closer to her mom? Especially with no friends or associates? Some real brain twisters, but also a couple of laughs. And a few grammar errors.
Despite all that, I liked it and will keep reading this series. I can't figure out how Remi is going to get a girl when he never leaves his computers? Oh, well. Onward ho!
The suspense was good and kept me engaged. I liked all the side brothers/characters and look forward to reading their stories. I liked both grouchy leader-protector, Gunnar, and sassy, hacker, tech-girl Jorja, too.
The cons were the insta-love on Gunnar's part, the inst-acceptance of all the guys to Jorja, and the 10 years between Gunnar and Jorja? How could she have a crush on him back in HS, and know how all the other "mean girls" were after him, when he wouldn't have even been around when she was in school? If she grew up poor, and he was rich with a butler, how did their mothers know and like each other? And why was Jorja living in Germany? She couldn't do her online job back in the States, closer to her mom? Especially with no friends or associates? Some real brain twisters, but also a couple of laughs. And a few grammar errors.
Despite all that, I liked it and will keep reading this series. I can't figure out how Remi is going to get a girl when he never leaves his computers? Oh, well. Onward ho!
January 11, 2026
This book is a fast paced, action-packed story with a large side of sexual chemistry and a dash of love. It’s so good, I listened to the whole book in 1 day.
Jorja (aka Hell Cat) is working, scrolling through the dark web for suitable auction listings for her clients when she comes across a list, which transpires to be a hit list, containing the name of someone from her hometown. She decides to tell him about her find but no matter what she tries, she can only find the very basic details about him online and she couldn’t find any way to contact him. After speaking to her mum, she finally had a lead that he runs a company called The XXXX Group based in La Spezia, Italy. Still unable to contact him, she decides to drive the 1000 miles from her current home in Hamburg, Germany to try and find him in person. Gunnar ‘Grizzly’ McKinley (aka Jerk God), his brothers and their dog Zombie are all ex Delta Force Military. Having all retired they now own and run The XXXX’s Group running black ops missions. Due to their histories and current roles, they fly under the radar, which is why they have limited online presence. When Jorja and Gunnar finally meet face to face for the first time it’s lust at first sight, but it takes a while before either of them does anything about it.
Jorja (aka Hell Cat) is working, scrolling through the dark web for suitable auction listings for her clients when she comes across a list, which transpires to be a hit list, containing the name of someone from her hometown. She decides to tell him about her find but no matter what she tries, she can only find the very basic details about him online and she couldn’t find any way to contact him. After speaking to her mum, she finally had a lead that he runs a company called The XXXX Group based in La Spezia, Italy. Still unable to contact him, she decides to drive the 1000 miles from her current home in Hamburg, Germany to try and find him in person. Gunnar ‘Grizzly’ McKinley (aka Jerk God), his brothers and their dog Zombie are all ex Delta Force Military. Having all retired they now own and run The XXXX’s Group running black ops missions. Due to their histories and current roles, they fly under the radar, which is why they have limited online presence. When Jorja and Gunnar finally meet face to face for the first time it’s lust at first sight, but it takes a while before either of them does anything about it.
February 26, 2024
Ms Bella has done it again! After introducing us to the 4 xxxx’s in Draven’s book, she has brought us an action packed start to the stories. Gunnar and his brothers have sworn off women after nasty divorces. They are happy running their black ops company from home base in Italy. Jorja, who hails from Gunnar’s hometown but is now living in Germany, comes across Gunnar’s name in what turns out to be a hit list. She heads south to find him and tell him about the list. When she arrives the sparks and the snark start to fly! Typical Bella mayhem and malarkey ensue. Thankfully for Gunnar, there is no glitter (IYKYK). There are tie ins to other Bella Stone series that run along the same timeline but this is a standalone. This series is already off to a fantastic start and I can’t wait to see how the stories roll. 12/10 recommend!
I received an ARC of this book but I already have it pre-ordered to purchase!
I received an ARC of this book but I already have it pre-ordered to purchase!
March 3, 2024
I couldn’t read this book fast enough! I loved everything about it and am so eager for book 2!
Jorja is an independent, sassy and capable woman. She comes across a name from her past and when she can’t readily contact him, she seeks him out.
Gunnar isn’t easy to find and when he learns someone is seeking him, his team step in to detain her and ask questions. He didn’t expect to bag a hellcat with no fear of stepping up and telling him what for and how. Jorja’s sass and attitude does more than catch his attention, it triggers an attraction that he can’t avoid.
I loved how Jorja fit into the McKinley brothers’ dynamic and their reactions to her. This new series is going to be fabulous and thrilling as all of Bella Stone’s others. Yeah!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Jorja is an independent, sassy and capable woman. She comes across a name from her past and when she can’t readily contact him, she seeks him out.
Gunnar isn’t easy to find and when he learns someone is seeking him, his team step in to detain her and ask questions. He didn’t expect to bag a hellcat with no fear of stepping up and telling him what for and how. Jorja’s sass and attitude does more than catch his attention, it triggers an attraction that he can’t avoid.
I loved how Jorja fit into the McKinley brothers’ dynamic and their reactions to her. This new series is going to be fabulous and thrilling as all of Bella Stone’s others. Yeah!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 3, 2024
The Four XXXXs rock!
Wow, this is a great start to a new series. The story is set in the same world as all of Bella and Annabella Stone's series). I didn't know it was possible, but I like this one even better than the Nemesis series. Special Forces operators and heroes; Gunnar and his brothers started Four XXXX security after their "retirement". They and their men still work mainly as a military unit. Great, strong characters who love action and are not afraid of anything, except maybe their momma's and woman. Jorja is an amazing, strong and independent woman. She tries to find the Four XXXXs to warn them of a potential threat, but when she finds them, everything is very different from what she expected. From then on, a thrilling romance full of action and suspense unfolded that kept me on the edge of my seat. I can't wait for the next story. Highly recommended.
Wow, this is a great start to a new series. The story is set in the same world as all of Bella and Annabella Stone's series). I didn't know it was possible, but I like this one even better than the Nemesis series. Special Forces operators and heroes; Gunnar and his brothers started Four XXXX security after their "retirement". They and their men still work mainly as a military unit. Great, strong characters who love action and are not afraid of anything, except maybe their momma's and woman. Jorja is an amazing, strong and independent woman. She tries to find the Four XXXXs to warn them of a potential threat, but when she finds them, everything is very different from what she expected. From then on, a thrilling romance full of action and suspense unfolded that kept me on the edge of my seat. I can't wait for the next story. Highly recommended.
March 5, 2024
Let's talk about “Gunnar"...
I finished reading Gunnar’s and Jorja’s story almost in a day. I devoured it! I loved the banter, the action and the story build in this book. Getting to know a bit about the four brothers, the McKinley’s. Jorja finds Gunnar’s name on a list it shouldn’t be and this is how it begins…
Am I allowed to say that I now have a crush on Remi? Sorry Gunnar... You are strong, a bit broken (who isn't), you got the right girl (badass) this time (you made a good deal...), I want to eat ice cream with you and Jorja, I want to take a road trip across Europe with both of you and play candy crash with Jorja but... My heart belongs to your brother...
“Gunnar” is book 1 in the new series “The Four X's Group” by Bella Stone. What a great start to this new series! Bella, you rock!! Can’t wait for book 2 and Remi’s story!
I finished reading Gunnar’s and Jorja’s story almost in a day. I devoured it! I loved the banter, the action and the story build in this book. Getting to know a bit about the four brothers, the McKinley’s. Jorja finds Gunnar’s name on a list it shouldn’t be and this is how it begins…
Am I allowed to say that I now have a crush on Remi? Sorry Gunnar... You are strong, a bit broken (who isn't), you got the right girl (badass) this time (you made a good deal...), I want to eat ice cream with you and Jorja, I want to take a road trip across Europe with both of you and play candy crash with Jorja but... My heart belongs to your brother...
“Gunnar” is book 1 in the new series “The Four X's Group” by Bella Stone. What a great start to this new series! Bella, you rock!! Can’t wait for book 2 and Remi’s story!
January 27, 2026
Gunnar is a fantastic series starter, filled with suspense, drama, action, and steamy connection. Hacker Jorja is brilliant at what she does, but when it comes to real world common sense, not so much. Her spitfire determination and compassionate caring side more than compensate fore some the occasional choices she fails to really think through. I love that she stands up for Gunnar no matter what, but also always stands up for herself. Gunnar is a warrior with a heart of gold. After being burned by his ex, he has some serious baggage to work through, and he takes those steps with integrity and honor. His brothers are a hoot, and the banter between all of them is off the chain. There are some fun and creative plot twists, and what I enjoyed the most was the outstanding duet narration.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 26, 2024
Excellent start to a new series, hot alpha, bossy heroes up against a tiny independent, sassy but caring female. Jorja stumbles on something worrying that connects to someone she possibly knows from her past, dropping everything to track and pass information on isn't as easy as expected. There is suspense and some action of various kinds, several countries and lots of characters. Loved Gunner and his brothers, they were protective of each other and their team. Jorja takes no prisoners herself and she is awesome. Fast paced story that is well written and wonderful, it felt like full speed ahead from the start and kept me reading almost to the end when I was forced to stop and sleep, picking up and finishing asap this morning. Fabulous chemistry and characters, freakin loved it.
September 11, 2024
non mi ha convinto.....
ecco quando si parte con tutte le buone intenzioni e poi alla fine della lettura resto perplessa
intanto i personaggi saltano da una decisione all'altra senza un senso o che, a tratti lui più che un DELTA mi sembra un fuori di testa, poi tutta una serie di personaggi collaterali che sembrano fuori posto al massimo, poi passano dall'italia alla germania in auto come fare dieci km, poco credibile
tantissime le forme verbali nelle frasi che sono state tradotto in modo più che letterale e che forse dovevano essere editate per una resa migliore
insomma trecento e rotte pagine pesantissime
preso in unlimited
tre stelle
ecco quando si parte con tutte le buone intenzioni e poi alla fine della lettura resto perplessa
intanto i personaggi saltano da una decisione all'altra senza un senso o che, a tratti lui più che un DELTA mi sembra un fuori di testa, poi tutta una serie di personaggi collaterali che sembrano fuori posto al massimo, poi passano dall'italia alla germania in auto come fare dieci km, poco credibile
tantissime le forme verbali nelle frasi che sono state tradotto in modo più che letterale e che forse dovevano essere editate per una resa migliore
insomma trecento e rotte pagine pesantissime
preso in unlimited
tre stelle
January 4, 2026
Brilliant narration from Marcio Catalano and June deBorahae
Jorja loves her antiques but she also does a bit of hacking and when she comes across a list of names one being someone she knew and it puts her in danger.
Gunnar is one of the brothers that run the Four Xs. All of the brothers had been in the military and now do private security work.
Gunnar comes across as grumpy and over protective and meeting Jorja gets all his proctor instincts in high gear.
He is sassy and is a strong woman who puts Gunnar in his place.
Excellent action, drama, chemistry and spice.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Jorja loves her antiques but she also does a bit of hacking and when she comes across a list of names one being someone she knew and it puts her in danger.
Gunnar is one of the brothers that run the Four Xs. All of the brothers had been in the military and now do private security work.
Gunnar comes across as grumpy and over protective and meeting Jorja gets all his proctor instincts in high gear.
He is sassy and is a strong woman who puts Gunnar in his place.
Excellent action, drama, chemistry and spice.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 28, 2026
I could not put this book down! I loved reading it and cannot wait to read more in the series. I am not a huge fan of 3rd person pov’s so the fact that I read this as fast as i did says something. Normally it takes me a lot longer to read 3rd person because i don’t get as into the story as 1st person. I also love that it is duet narration instead of dual narration. I already want to read Remi. This is book 1 of a series of interconnected standalones.
This is more for 18+ readers as there is some content that may not be suitable for all readers. I highly recommend reading Gunnar, as this is my first time reading a book by Bella Stone and I already want to read more.
This is more for 18+ readers as there is some content that may not be suitable for all readers. I highly recommend reading Gunnar, as this is my first time reading a book by Bella Stone and I already want to read more.
March 11, 2024
This is a suspe.se filled military romance with danger and edge of your seat excitement. We get to k ow Gunner and the rest of his brothers more in depth. Each are divorced former navy seals who are living their life to the fullest theu can. Gunner and Jorja have history and when she sees his name on a list she know a she needs to find him before those who put him on the lost find him. Will she reach him in time and prevent a murder? Great storyline and start to a new series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 12, 2024
awesomeness
I have been (not so) patiently waiting for this book since the XXXX characters were introduced in Draven’s book from another of the authors series, and I was not left disappointed.
Successfully navigating the challenge of introducing a plethora of characters, giving them sufficient backstory to build an engaging world without detriment to the MC’s and giving us a swoon worthy romance and a boat lot of suspense and danger….this book delivers it all
Excitedly waiting for anything else this author releases
I have been (not so) patiently waiting for this book since the XXXX characters were introduced in Draven’s book from another of the authors series, and I was not left disappointed.
Successfully navigating the challenge of introducing a plethora of characters, giving them sufficient backstory to build an engaging world without detriment to the MC’s and giving us a swoon worthy romance and a boat lot of suspense and danger….this book delivers it all
Excitedly waiting for anything else this author releases
September 8, 2024
New author got me and I was not disappointed!
I’m a big fan of the Alpha male/kickass heroine genre. If you like those kinds of books I highly recommend this one. My favorite authors are Susan Stoker, Riley Edwards and Anna Hackett. If you like those authors you will like this book. Also, I enjoyed the fact that the books are based in Italy. Just a little different from the US bases teams and their stomping grounds. Hope this helped you decide.
I’m a big fan of the Alpha male/kickass heroine genre. If you like those kinds of books I highly recommend this one. My favorite authors are Susan Stoker, Riley Edwards and Anna Hackett. If you like those authors you will like this book. Also, I enjoyed the fact that the books are based in Italy. Just a little different from the US bases teams and their stomping grounds. Hope this helped you decide.
October 19, 2024
While surfing the dark web for offerings to forward to her clients, Jorja Buchannan sees home-town hottie Gunnar McKinley’s name on a list. On the news, two names are reported as dying horrifically, and according to her research and the report they were bad-guys. Surely Gunnar’s name on the same list is a mistake. Jorja’s determined to warn him so keep him rom being killed by accident and rushes to Italy though Gunnar gives no indication he remembers her.
Rating: 4.25stars
Rating: 4.25stars
August 22, 2025
This is audiobook I’ve been waiting for
If you love a good military suspense romance, this is a guaranteed worthy listen.
Gunnar and Jorja don’t get off to easiest start, Sassy Jorja is not going be bossed into a quiet corner, Gunnar’s got chip on his shoulder, but regardless of their verbal sparring they’ve got work to do. It’s great start to the XXXX series.
The characters are complex, bold, and brave. They are lessons in loyalty, and snark is real.
If you love a good military suspense romance, this is a guaranteed worthy listen.
Gunnar and Jorja don’t get off to easiest start, Sassy Jorja is not going be bossed into a quiet corner, Gunnar’s got chip on his shoulder, but regardless of their verbal sparring they’ve got work to do. It’s great start to the XXXX series.
The characters are complex, bold, and brave. They are lessons in loyalty, and snark is real.
March 2, 2024
This is a great start to a new series, the story is well written and the world building and characters introductions is great, this is Jorja and Gunnar’s story, the story is fast paced and action packed but it also has some banter and suspense and is really worth a read, can’t wait to read book two next.
March 4, 2024
Loved Gunnar! A strong woman besting her Alpha male!
Gunner and Jorja are great together! There is heat, romance and adventure. Bella Stone wove a wonderful story and grabbed you attention from the beginning and didn't stop until the last page. Thank you Bella for a great story. 🔥😸🎉📚
Gunner and Jorja are great together! There is heat, romance and adventure. Bella Stone wove a wonderful story and grabbed you attention from the beginning and didn't stop until the last page. Thank you Bella for a great story. 🔥😸🎉📚
March 11, 2024
💕💖💕 Gunnar and Jorja 💕💖💕 Bella Stone does an awesome job on this first book in her new series! I can't wait for each of her new books to come out. She is a great author and tells stories concerning soldier type groups. This book and all books should be on your TBR list!💖.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 12, 2025
I read this one twice. The first time was a few months ago, then again in December to remember the small details and start the rest of the series. I did enjoy the book. The XXXX’s is an interesting company with fun characters. I enjoyed both Gunnar and Jorja’s characters. Good plot, a little on the tamer side for suspense and an HEA. All good for me.
April 26, 2025
First book by this Author
Favorite part when ex gets her a -- handed to her. I read it three times. Great fun, exciting writing. The relationship of the bros is so tight and the camaraderie is hilarious. Even Zombie has his own two cents to add. . The ops are original, the halo drop with Zombie is just plain badassery. Can't wait to read Remi
Favorite part when ex gets her a -- handed to her. I read it three times. Great fun, exciting writing. The relationship of the bros is so tight and the camaraderie is hilarious. Even Zombie has his own two cents to add. . The ops are original, the halo drop with Zombie is just plain badassery. Can't wait to read Remi
February 29, 2024
A wonderful start to a new series!!!
Wow! This is the first book I have read from this author but definitely will not be my last!!!
Such a fantastic book and I cannot wait for Rem's story.
Wow! This is the first book I have read from this author but definitely will not be my last!!!
Such a fantastic book and I cannot wait for Rem's story.
March 3, 2024
Fun read
Man I was hoping this group was going to be MM or even mixed with MF maybe. I do love these brothers and following along with their stories. It was fun to watch Jorja interact with the brothers and watch Gunnar fall in love. Looking forward to Remi’s story!
Man I was hoping this group was going to be MM or even mixed with MF maybe. I do love these brothers and following along with their stories. It was fun to watch Jorja interact with the brothers and watch Gunnar fall in love. Looking forward to Remi’s story!
March 11, 2024
wow, having been waiting to see what Ms. Stone would come up with for the Four X's and the first of the series did not dissappoint!
Lot's of action, steam and sass as well as grumpy man with lot's of issues.
Jorja and Gunnar er wicked hot together and I can't wait for more.
Lot's of action, steam and sass as well as grumpy man with lot's of issues.
Jorja and Gunnar er wicked hot together and I can't wait for more.
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