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The Beekeeper
After two years of hiding, I'm finally free and all I want is some peace and maybe a little garden to tend. The adorable cabin in the forest is just what I'm looking for, private and secluded. Other than the long dead inhabitants of the old graveyard nearby, I only have one neighbor.
Arlow Shaw is antisocial if not outright reclusive, quiet, and guarded when it comes to discussing himself. A nature lover, he spends most of his time in the forest or tending to his bee hives.
His calming effect on me is perplexing but exactly what I need. Through long nights spent talking over a bonfire, I grow close to the enigmatic man, but as we start to cross the line from friends to lovers, the trouble begins.
What starts as a few footprints in the woods and some broken windows quickly escalates to violent threats.
Our secrets are forced into the light but the question remains. Has my past come back to torment me or is there more to this man than I know?
The Beekeeper is a standalone romantic suspense with some mystery and a dark twist.
Arlow Shaw is antisocial if not outright reclusive, quiet, and guarded when it comes to discussing himself. A nature lover, he spends most of his time in the forest or tending to his bee hives.
His calming effect on me is perplexing but exactly what I need. Through long nights spent talking over a bonfire, I grow close to the enigmatic man, but as we start to cross the line from friends to lovers, the trouble begins.
What starts as a few footprints in the woods and some broken windows quickly escalates to violent threats.
Our secrets are forced into the light but the question remains. Has my past come back to torment me or is there more to this man than I know?
The Beekeeper is a standalone romantic suspense with some mystery and a dark twist.
364 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 20, 2024
364 people are currently reading
1253 people want to read
About the author
S.M. Shade
42 books1,672 followersS.M. Shade writes spicy romantic comedies and steamy contemporary romances with relatable characters. Whether it's a good laugh or a good cry, she likes to grab you by your emotions and make you feel.
An unashamed Croc enthusiast and poetry nerd, she can usually be found listening to Indie Rock on repeat and watching birds.
An unashamed Croc enthusiast and poetry nerd, she can usually be found listening to Indie Rock on repeat and watching birds.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 207 reviews
September 28, 2024
🌸 𝙼𝚈 𝚁𝙴𝚅𝙸𝙴𝚆 𝙰𝙽𝙳 𝙾𝚃𝙷𝙴𝚁𝚂 🌸 can also be found on my blog: ╰┈➤K𝐈T𝐓Y K𝐀T𝐒 𝐂R𝐀Z𝐘 𝐀B𝐎U𝐓 𝐁O𝐎K𝐒
🐝 'T𝐇E B𝐄E𝐊E𝐄P𝐄R' 🐝 Is a stand-alone full length romance book by author S.M. Shade. Spoken in dual POV's. Arlow & Calli (Calliope). Characters aged 30+
First off it was the cover which grabbed my attention, a read over the burb and a glance at the author and it sealed the deal, I needed to read this and I'm so glad I took that plunge. Because as soon as I started this I fell under this authors spell, this was such a unique story which pulled me in straight away and didn't let me go until that last page was read.
From the setting, to the characters this was inhaled in no time at all.
What to expect:
🐝 Spice
🐝 Suspense
🐝 Morally gray characters
🐝 Protective Hero
🐝 HEA
🐝 No third act breakup
🐝 Characters aged 30+
Wanting a peaceful place to start over Calli finds herself renting a quaint little cabin for a year which is surrounded by woods with a shared driveway with a close neighbour, upon closer inspection tombstones stand on his part of the land. She's informed that her neighbour is a bit of a recluse who lives alone and by all accounts isn't one to strike up conversations, this could also be due to a skin condition which mars part of his face.
These two have such a humorous encounter as she trespasses onto his part of the land and loots his peach trees, straight off the bat these two have such a fierce attraction towards each other and a budding friendship ensues which creates a slow burn beautiful story.
🐝...'𝚆𝚑𝚢 𝚍𝚘 𝚢𝚘𝚞 𝚑𝚊𝚗𝚐 𝚘𝚞𝚝 𝚒𝚗 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚐𝚛𝚊𝚟𝚎𝚢𝚊𝚛𝚍 𝚊𝚝 𝚗𝚒𝚐𝚑𝚝?'
𝙷𝚒𝚜 𝚕𝚒𝚙𝚜 𝚝𝚠𝚒𝚝𝚌𝚑..𝙰𝚗𝚍 𝚑𝚎 𝚛𝚊𝚒𝚜𝚎𝚜 𝚊𝚗 𝚎𝚢𝚎𝚋𝚛𝚘𝚠.
'𝚆𝚑𝚊𝚝'𝚜 𝚢𝚘𝚞𝚛 𝚐𝚘𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚝𝚑𝚎𝚘𝚛𝚢?
𝚂𝚎𝚊𝚗𝚌𝚎𝚜? 𝙶𝚛𝚊𝚟𝚎𝚛𝚘𝚋𝚋𝚒𝚗𝚐?'
Arlow was such a likable character, a talented broody artist, a gentle giant of a man with a heart of gold, I found Calli a bit harder to connect with but that could also be due to her harrowing background and her need to move around a lot never able to stay rooted in one place for long.
Not all is a bed of roses for these two, because even though these two get on like a house on fire with a profound attraction towards each other, things start happening around them as they both strive to dig around to see who has been targeting them when both have people in their pasts which could cause them harm adds a bit of a mystery to this storyline.
September 24, 2024
Thank you Dawn for finding this new release! The cover's beautiful and the blurb was so intriguing. I could not put this book down once I started and my parenting/adulting responsibilities definitely felt like they took forever until I could get back and wrap up Calli (h) and Arlow's (H) story.
Overall this is a slowly built, neighbors to friends to lovers romance with a lot of sweetness and humor, but with a thread of tension as the story goes from low-stakes to higher-stakes. The romance is a touch angsty with a backdrop of slowly revealed trauma, some mystery, that finely built tension, and suspense. Because of the build up to Calli and Arlow unveiling their pasts and hang-ups, thanks to the overall vibe of the book, my mind came up with some pretty outlandish (but plausible) scenarios. I’m not spoiling anything, but I was a little bummed one of my guesses wasn’t the route the author took. I will say, I wasn't shocked with some some of the reveals and twists and the narrative style wasn't my favorite in places, but I was also fully-invested and needing answers.
Written in first person, dual POV. No ow/om drama (H does get hit on by a woman but not around h and he's quick to decline; h does think the H is still hung up on an ex at one point but he's not; H gets jealous over the closeness with a male friend at one point) and both are experienced (H had been in a relationship before but no longer dates and didn't sleep around; no history for h that I can recall though).
I have shelved this as unconventional looking H because Arlow does have vitiligo and he’s a big dude, so he stands out for sure. His appearance and people’s reactions to it are mentioned. I appreciated how open-minded Calli was though in giving chances to people, including Arlow, despite her past. In some ways, Arlow was more likable to me than Calli however, despite his reasoning for keeping a distance from most people being frustrating. I also loved that he was an artist and how that was incorporated into the book. The connection and chemistry between them was excellent and instant for Arlow. Calli needed a bit of reassurance that he wasn’t up to something weird in the graveyard behind his house, which is fair. Loved their senses of humor, which were sometimes a bit dark. I could have done with less of the drug use, but this is a personal preference.
There are a lot of moments where Calli and Arlow are simply bonding and establishing this connection between them whether it’s her baking for him or him teaching her to work with his bees. They’re both very attracted to each other and those sparks fly off the page. A couple of instances of giving in do result in push/pull because Arlow is firm on not dating, but doesn’t immediately open up as to why. But he’s obsessed with Calli and she doesn’t want anyone but him either. Still, lots of steamy times in the story and they’re explicit. Arlow may be a sweetheart who’s a bit bashful at times, but he’s not shy about wanting Calli and she’s not shy about her feelings for him.
Some fun side characters including Calli’s landlord’s daughter, who becomes a close friend, and Arlow’s best friend. Arlow also has an amazing set of parents. Calli’s family is unfortunately not equally as amazing, but she does have some other long-term friends that also pop in. I’m not sure if Arlow’s best friend may have been in a prior book by the author but I was mighty curious about him by the end of this.
I’m not spoiling the various mysteries and possible instigators in the story. All the major questions are answered by the end as a reassurance. I did have a couple offhand, minor nitpicking questions wondering why certain characters made the choices they did, but I think that would be pretty common for a book like this. The ending is very much a HEA and the epilogue is TEN years later and is awesome, loved it and how the two of them continued to be the adorable couple, and hot for each other, couple they were. Some small aspects of the story weren’t my cup of tea, but the whole of this really worked for me and kept me flipping pages and checking how much longer I had to try and judge what else might happen.
Content warnings: mentions of past parental abuse/neglect, recreational drug use on page, mentions of side characters struggling with addiction, discussion of health condition, stalking, violence, morally grey attitude in specific circumstances, therapy is discussed, as well as managing grief and guilt.
Overall this is a slowly built, neighbors to friends to lovers romance with a lot of sweetness and humor, but with a thread of tension as the story goes from low-stakes to higher-stakes. The romance is a touch angsty with a backdrop of slowly revealed trauma, some mystery, that finely built tension, and suspense. Because of the build up to Calli and Arlow unveiling their pasts and hang-ups, thanks to the overall vibe of the book, my mind came up with some pretty outlandish (but plausible) scenarios. I’m not spoiling anything, but I was a little bummed one of my guesses wasn’t the route the author took. I will say, I wasn't shocked with some some of the reveals and twists and the narrative style wasn't my favorite in places, but I was also fully-invested and needing answers.
Written in first person, dual POV. No ow/om drama (H does get hit on by a woman but not around h and he's quick to decline; h does think the H is still hung up on an ex at one point but he's not; H gets jealous over the closeness with a male friend at one point) and both are experienced (H had been in a relationship before but no longer dates and didn't sleep around; no history for h that I can recall though).
I have shelved this as unconventional looking H because Arlow does have vitiligo and he’s a big dude, so he stands out for sure. His appearance and people’s reactions to it are mentioned. I appreciated how open-minded Calli was though in giving chances to people, including Arlow, despite her past. In some ways, Arlow was more likable to me than Calli however, despite his reasoning for keeping a distance from most people being frustrating. I also loved that he was an artist and how that was incorporated into the book. The connection and chemistry between them was excellent and instant for Arlow. Calli needed a bit of reassurance that he wasn’t up to something weird in the graveyard behind his house, which is fair. Loved their senses of humor, which were sometimes a bit dark. I could have done with less of the drug use, but this is a personal preference.
There are a lot of moments where Calli and Arlow are simply bonding and establishing this connection between them whether it’s her baking for him or him teaching her to work with his bees. They’re both very attracted to each other and those sparks fly off the page. A couple of instances of giving in do result in push/pull because Arlow is firm on not dating, but doesn’t immediately open up as to why. But he’s obsessed with Calli and she doesn’t want anyone but him either. Still, lots of steamy times in the story and they’re explicit. Arlow may be a sweetheart who’s a bit bashful at times, but he’s not shy about wanting Calli and she’s not shy about her feelings for him.
Some fun side characters including Calli’s landlord’s daughter, who becomes a close friend, and Arlow’s best friend. Arlow also has an amazing set of parents. Calli’s family is unfortunately not equally as amazing, but she does have some other long-term friends that also pop in. I’m not sure if Arlow’s best friend may have been in a prior book by the author but I was mighty curious about him by the end of this.
I’m not spoiling the various mysteries and possible instigators in the story. All the major questions are answered by the end as a reassurance. I did have a couple offhand, minor nitpicking questions wondering why certain characters made the choices they did, but I think that would be pretty common for a book like this. The ending is very much a HEA and the epilogue is TEN years later and is awesome, loved it and how the two of them continued to be the adorable couple, and hot for each other, couple they were. Some small aspects of the story weren’t my cup of tea, but the whole of this really worked for me and kept me flipping pages and checking how much longer I had to try and judge what else might happen.
Content warnings: mentions of past parental abuse/neglect, recreational drug use on page, mentions of side characters struggling with addiction, discussion of health condition, stalking, violence, morally grey attitude in specific circumstances, therapy is discussed, as well as managing grief and guilt.
September 25, 2024
Almost DNF a few times. Lots of skimming. Some parts were way too unnecessarily descriptive and I just kept waiting for it to be over unfortunately. I can see the appeal and how many people would love this story and the characters. Just wasn't for me.
Spoiler below
There's also a dead EX trope but it's meant to be a surprise--hence the spoiler alert...but I know some of you don't like that. He never loved her and they broke up like 20 mins before she died but he feels guilt over it. It's one of my least favorite tropes so I didn't like that 😕
Spoiler below
There's also a dead EX trope but it's meant to be a surprise--hence the spoiler alert...but I know some of you don't like that. He never loved her and they broke up like 20 mins before she died but he feels guilt over it. It's one of my least favorite tropes so I didn't like that 😕
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 29, 2025
Yessssssss! This book was AMAZING!
Renting a cabin right next to a mysterious, night-owl neighbor and there are bound to be some questions. Those questions lead to getting to know the quiet, homebody man better under the stars every night.
After a few break ins, seemingly harmless, hackles are risen when a man with a black baklava in the woods appears, chasing her and escaping on an ATV.
The chemistry between these two was so sweet. ❤️
Renting a cabin right next to a mysterious, night-owl neighbor and there are bound to be some questions. Those questions lead to getting to know the quiet, homebody man better under the stars every night.
After a few break ins, seemingly harmless, hackles are risen when a man with a black baklava in the woods appears, chasing her and escaping on an ATV.
The chemistry between these two was so sweet. ❤️
September 16, 2024
I just devoured The Beekeeper by S.M.Shade in one sitting. This story is unique from every side. The cabin and the house by side of a graveyard and a deep forest. Two very fascinating and interesting lead characters with a complex tragic past and emotional baggage. You will feel instantly intrigued. The story goes from sweet to swoony to adrenaline filled to suspenseful to spicy. And I didn't want to get down from the wild ride.
What to expect:
> Spicy
> Suspense
> Morally gray characters
> Protective Hero
> HEA
> No third act breakup
> Clear consent
> Characters aged 30+
> Childfree by choice
> standalone
Calliope moved to a remote small town to start fresh. The neighbor to her cabin, Arlow lives an isolated life. His burn, the not in use graveyard, the appearance..everything put Callie in unease. But as their paths kept crossing, she realises he isn't dangerous at all. He is actually opposite. But he cannot allow himself to fall in love because of his past. As monsters from their past come to haunt them.. they have to embrace darkness themselves and get their happily ever after.
I won't tell you more as you should go in blind. Arlow and Callie both are incredible human beings who have been dealt sh1tty hands by life. Arlow is the most charming and caring and protective person you can imagine. He was reluctant to open his heart from the guilt and pain from the past. But Callie is a force to be reckoned with. She has suffered through abuse and abandonment and trauma but she still shines so bright. Her sweetness, her sassy personality in contrast to her anxiety, her ability to accept Arlow wholeheartedly with his unconventional lifestyle..everything made Arlow fall for her against all his resistance. They are both different from usual people. And that bound them in an all consuming bond. The suspense part kept me on my toes and I was turning pages eagerly to figure out who the culprits are. In the end, Arlow and Callie took charge of their destiny and took down the enemies themselves. That touch of darkness made their love even stronger.
The chemistry was scorching hot. It was a beautiful blend of heartache, mystery, healing and spice.
I reviewed an early copy voluntarily
What to expect:
> Spicy
> Suspense
> Morally gray characters
> Protective Hero
> HEA
> No third act breakup
> Clear consent
> Characters aged 30+
> Childfree by choice
> standalone
Calliope moved to a remote small town to start fresh. The neighbor to her cabin, Arlow lives an isolated life. His burn, the not in use graveyard, the appearance..everything put Callie in unease. But as their paths kept crossing, she realises he isn't dangerous at all. He is actually opposite. But he cannot allow himself to fall in love because of his past. As monsters from their past come to haunt them.. they have to embrace darkness themselves and get their happily ever after.
I won't tell you more as you should go in blind. Arlow and Callie both are incredible human beings who have been dealt sh1tty hands by life. Arlow is the most charming and caring and protective person you can imagine. He was reluctant to open his heart from the guilt and pain from the past. But Callie is a force to be reckoned with. She has suffered through abuse and abandonment and trauma but she still shines so bright. Her sweetness, her sassy personality in contrast to her anxiety, her ability to accept Arlow wholeheartedly with his unconventional lifestyle..everything made Arlow fall for her against all his resistance. They are both different from usual people. And that bound them in an all consuming bond. The suspense part kept me on my toes and I was turning pages eagerly to figure out who the culprits are. In the end, Arlow and Callie took charge of their destiny and took down the enemies themselves. That touch of darkness made their love even stronger.
The chemistry was scorching hot. It was a beautiful blend of heartache, mystery, healing and spice.
I reviewed an early copy voluntarily
September 23, 2024
So the book isn’t bad by any means however there are at least 100 pages that could have been cut down— honestly cut completely out— because they’re just filler information.
Super detailed about the house or the graveyard or the walking path or the beehive and how they make the honey
I’m not sure if it’s to make us feel more connected to the character or if it’s just to pad the length, but it ends up being kind of frustrating and pulls me out of the book because I genuinely don’t care after the sixth paragraph about the bees I no longer cared about the bees 🙄
So it took me three days to get 20% into this book
I read incredibly fast — so what that told me was I kept putting this down and doing anything else because I was so bored so many times
I really enjoy this. I always enjoy the character she makes, but this had so much filler that I just stopped caring
I may go back and reread it when I want to read an in-depth book about characters -nothing happens-and see if the suspense does end up actually happening— but for now I had to put it down and move on.
Super detailed about the house or the graveyard or the walking path or the beehive and how they make the honey
I’m not sure if it’s to make us feel more connected to the character or if it’s just to pad the length, but it ends up being kind of frustrating and pulls me out of the book because I genuinely don’t care after the sixth paragraph about the bees I no longer cared about the bees 🙄
So it took me three days to get 20% into this book
I read incredibly fast — so what that told me was I kept putting this down and doing anything else because I was so bored so many times
I really enjoy this. I always enjoy the character she makes, but this had so much filler that I just stopped caring
I may go back and reread it when I want to read an in-depth book about characters -nothing happens-and see if the suspense does end up actually happening— but for now I had to put it down and move on.
Read
April 24, 2025Dnf. Not sure what it was, but felt zero interest in continuing the story. Time to move on to something else.
September 22, 2024
Oh my god, I loved this. Absolutely loved it.
I haven’t really read much by this author before — just one book, awhile ago— so I didn’t know what to expect. When I started this, I thought it was a completely different story than what it turned out to be. And I mean this in the best way.
This is about two souls who have experienced tragedy and unkindness and who are carrying around that trauma deep inside. Arlow is a recluse whose distinctive physical appearance sets him apart from others. Calli is running from a past she’s afraid will catch up with her, so she isn’t planning on setting down roots.
The magic of these two characters seeing each other, meeting for the first time, and the reader having access to their thoughts through shifting points of view is just incredible. The general dialogue, the banter, the way the characters are written— it’s beautiful and so sweet.
Arlow and Calli are definitely challenged by outside forces, and I really enjoyed those plot points. But their chemistry is stronger than adversity. The spice is great, and the banter before, during, and after spicy time is top notch. This book is going to have every girl yearning for an Arlow of her own.
I haven’t really read much by this author before — just one book, awhile ago— so I didn’t know what to expect. When I started this, I thought it was a completely different story than what it turned out to be. And I mean this in the best way.
This is about two souls who have experienced tragedy and unkindness and who are carrying around that trauma deep inside. Arlow is a recluse whose distinctive physical appearance sets him apart from others. Calli is running from a past she’s afraid will catch up with her, so she isn’t planning on setting down roots.
The magic of these two characters seeing each other, meeting for the first time, and the reader having access to their thoughts through shifting points of view is just incredible. The general dialogue, the banter, the way the characters are written— it’s beautiful and so sweet.
Arlow and Calli are definitely challenged by outside forces, and I really enjoyed those plot points. But their chemistry is stronger than adversity. The spice is great, and the banter before, during, and after spicy time is top notch. This book is going to have every girl yearning for an Arlow of her own.
September 19, 2024
The Beekeeper is my first book by this author, and I absolutely loved it.
The intense chemistry between the two MCs and the suspense of mystery surrounding the happenings in the story was utterly captivating. I couldn't look away. The spice as well was 🔥
I loved Arlow. The sweet, gentle giant of a man who was literally swept off his feet by Calli. One glance, and he was taken by her.
Calli was truly sweet herself. Funny, kind, and just trying to move on from her past that doesn't want to let her go.
I loved the side characters as well. Both sets of friends were hilarious, especially Silver.
There is a lot going on in this story, and it's definitely being added to my favourite list.
I definitely recommend 👌
The intense chemistry between the two MCs and the suspense of mystery surrounding the happenings in the story was utterly captivating. I couldn't look away. The spice as well was 🔥
I loved Arlow. The sweet, gentle giant of a man who was literally swept off his feet by Calli. One glance, and he was taken by her.
Calli was truly sweet herself. Funny, kind, and just trying to move on from her past that doesn't want to let her go.
I loved the side characters as well. Both sets of friends were hilarious, especially Silver.
There is a lot going on in this story, and it's definitely being added to my favourite list.
I definitely recommend 👌
May 7, 2025
4⭐
3🌶
The way Arlow talks sometimes.... whew. Hot. I really enjoyed reading this one, it had the characters I loved and a storyline that flowed. Who doesn't love a hot, gentle beekeeper who will protect you? Plus, he is talented with a brush? Come on, guys, I don't have much to say, but Arlow should be enough for you to want to read this one.
3🌶
The way Arlow talks sometimes.... whew. Hot. I really enjoyed reading this one, it had the characters I loved and a storyline that flowed. Who doesn't love a hot, gentle beekeeper who will protect you? Plus, he is talented with a brush? Come on, guys, I don't have much to say, but Arlow should be enough for you to want to read this one.
September 6, 2024
The Beekeeper by S.M. Shade @authorsmahade. First off, I am a fan of SM’s & this book was no different!
This was an excellent romantic suspense book about Calli & Arlow. I absolutely loved it. It took about 15-20% for me to get fully invested in the book & then I devoured it. If you like MF, suspense/mystery, a kick-butt FMC, anti-social MMC, small town & friends to lovers, then you'll love this book.
This was an excellent romantic suspense book about Calli & Arlow. I absolutely loved it. It took about 15-20% for me to get fully invested in the book & then I devoured it. If you like MF, suspense/mystery, a kick-butt FMC, anti-social MMC, small town & friends to lovers, then you'll love this book.
January 31, 2026
I didn’t realize this was a rom com when I read the description but it was so flipping cute. I was laughing so hard while reading this. I knew nothing about the author or book really going in to but I was not disappointed at all. If you are looking for a cute funny kinda dark book, definitely try this book.
January 30, 2025
The Beekeeper by S.M. Shade unfortunately didn’t live up to expectations. I struggled to connect with the main characters, as their time seemed mostly spent getting high, drawing, and aimlessly wandering the woods. They lacked depth and chemistry, making it hard to care about their journey. The world-building felt shallow and left me wanting more. In the end, it just didn’t engage me the way I had hoped.
January 25, 2025
I don’t really understand all the high reviews. While this wasn’t poorly written, it did drag a lot. And honestly it felt like nothing happened for 80% of the book, and when it did it was resolved so quickly it was almost superfluous.
There was just too much filler, and i didn’t find either character all that interesting.
There was just too much filler, and i didn’t find either character all that interesting.
not-finished
October 29, 2024DNF at 35%
I really couldn't connect with the characters. I wanted to keep reading to learn more about their pasts but I was a bit bored.
I do want to pick this story up again when my mood changes.
I really couldn't connect with the characters. I wanted to keep reading to learn more about their pasts but I was a bit bored.
I do want to pick this story up again when my mood changes.
May 17, 2025
This is such a hidden gem!
This story balances the friends to lovers story with the dark past mystery so well - the way both Arlow and Callie have skeletons in their closet and we don't know until the end exactly who the culprit is was fantastic.
Seeing their relationship develop was heartwarming, their banter was cute, their chemistry immediate and scorching.
Arlow is a particularly interesting MMC. He has Vitiligo and a genetic condition that explains his extreme height and a heart defect. He's also got some pretty intense survivor's guilt that's kept him from getting close to people before Callie came to town. Add to that he's a world renowned artist AND a beekeeper. He's probably one of the most unique MMCs I think I've ever read about. He's also a gentle giant, until he needs to be protective. He's sweet and thoughtful, but he'd literally kill for his girl. He draws her, and he draws FOR her. Ugh.
Callie's perhaps less developed as an individual, because she doesn't have a distinct profession or talent. But she enjoys going to band concerts with her friends. Most of the intrigue surrounding her comes from her complicated past with her family. Untangling her backstory was an interesting ride.
The way Callie and Arlow come together, first just becoming friends, and then falling in love with one another was so fun to see. The lengths they'll both go to to keep each other safe was also thrilling.
Their friends are just as dynamic and fun. There's lots of laughs and even some tears. Silver and Lee are awesome (I wish there'd been a second book with those two, because I think they'd be perfect together).
And! There's no 3rd act breakup! Once these two are loyal to each other and in love, it's just a matter of weathering the crazy shit going on around them. This is just the sort of plot I've always wanted - a pair of lovers forced to tangle with the wicked world around them while being staunchly in each other's corner.
The one thing I didn't care for is the recreational drug use. Both the characters and their friend group spend quite a lot of time getting high. I don't normally have any issue with this sort of thing (it's mostly just pot and edibles), but in this case it doesn't really add anything at all to the story. And with Callie's father being a heavy drug user the juxtaposition just doesn't sit right. It almost feels like Callie makes excuses and apologies for her father's addiction, insisting that he's a good guy and that he was a good dad, even though he was doing fucked up illegal shit with her and her brother for years when they were children.
But that's really such a minor complaint in the grand scheme of things. It's something I'm sure many others won't have an issue with at all.
This story balances the friends to lovers story with the dark past mystery so well - the way both Arlow and Callie have skeletons in their closet and we don't know until the end exactly who the culprit is was fantastic.
Seeing their relationship develop was heartwarming, their banter was cute, their chemistry immediate and scorching.
Arlow is a particularly interesting MMC. He has Vitiligo and a genetic condition that explains his extreme height and a heart defect. He's also got some pretty intense survivor's guilt that's kept him from getting close to people before Callie came to town. Add to that he's a world renowned artist AND a beekeeper. He's probably one of the most unique MMCs I think I've ever read about. He's also a gentle giant, until he needs to be protective. He's sweet and thoughtful, but he'd literally kill for his girl. He draws her, and he draws FOR her. Ugh.
Callie's perhaps less developed as an individual, because she doesn't have a distinct profession or talent. But she enjoys going to band concerts with her friends. Most of the intrigue surrounding her comes from her complicated past with her family. Untangling her backstory was an interesting ride.
The way Callie and Arlow come together, first just becoming friends, and then falling in love with one another was so fun to see. The lengths they'll both go to to keep each other safe was also thrilling.
Their friends are just as dynamic and fun. There's lots of laughs and even some tears. Silver and Lee are awesome (I wish there'd been a second book with those two, because I think they'd be perfect together).
And! There's no 3rd act breakup! Once these two are loyal to each other and in love, it's just a matter of weathering the crazy shit going on around them. This is just the sort of plot I've always wanted - a pair of lovers forced to tangle with the wicked world around them while being staunchly in each other's corner.
The one thing I didn't care for is the recreational drug use. Both the characters and their friend group spend quite a lot of time getting high. I don't normally have any issue with this sort of thing (it's mostly just pot and edibles), but in this case it doesn't really add anything at all to the story. And with Callie's father being a heavy drug user the juxtaposition just doesn't sit right. It almost feels like Callie makes excuses and apologies for her father's addiction, insisting that he's a good guy and that he was a good dad, even though he was doing fucked up illegal shit with her and her brother for years when they were children.
But that's really such a minor complaint in the grand scheme of things. It's something I'm sure many others won't have an issue with at all.
October 6, 2024
4.5 stars but I'm rounding up because I enjoyed it so much. I have no idea how to even classify this one, or what tags to add. There are tropey things that happen, but most of them weren't complete tropes, or I don't already have tags for some things I don't think I'll see in enough books to add them, leaving my tags for this one a little bare.
Regardless, this one was a perfect read for me. I spent all day putting things off because I didn't want to put it down, and then I rushed through everything I had to do to get back to the story.
And the things is, it wasn't particularly suspenseful or exciting (and I don't mean that in a negative way) but I was still captivated. Much of what happens in this story is building up to letting the reader understand the more emotional moments when they come. So a lot of time is spent on the FMC establishing relationships with friends, or exploring new skills or hobbies. There's time spent showing us the MMC's love of his bees, or his skill in drawing and painting. And much of this doesn't mean anything until we discover their pasts, or until we see contrasts in their actions to how they usually are. And side note: all the bee stuff was actually really effing cool.
"Love isn’t what it’s portrayed to be, a soft fragile thing draped in flowers and hearts and sweet words. It’s gritty and painful and terrifying. It reveals truths about our nature and shows us we’re capable of things we never imagined doing before."
I don't know how to explain this, but I absolutely love how unhinged things got when these were just two people trying to live their lives. This isn't a dark romance, but it toes the line of making you question your morals in the way dark romances can.
I don't think it was perfect, and there were a few strings I would have liked tied up or at least clarification on, but I really enjoyed all of it overall. The romance was slow to build, though I wouldn't call this a slow burn. I love that they began as friends and created a relationship over time that dug in deep and strong.
No OW/OM drama. No third act breakup. No babies or pregnancies.
You could mayyyyyybe call it a HFN ending, but it's clear they'll be together forever, and SPOILERS SPOILERS SPOILERS SPOILERS SPOILERS SPOILERS SPOILERS the epilogue is set 10 years in the future and they're living together. It never says whether or not they're married, and we know from the story that they'll never have kids. I'm calling it their version of a HEA instead of a HFN though.
Regardless, this one was a perfect read for me. I spent all day putting things off because I didn't want to put it down, and then I rushed through everything I had to do to get back to the story.
And the things is, it wasn't particularly suspenseful or exciting (and I don't mean that in a negative way) but I was still captivated. Much of what happens in this story is building up to letting the reader understand the more emotional moments when they come. So a lot of time is spent on the FMC establishing relationships with friends, or exploring new skills or hobbies. There's time spent showing us the MMC's love of his bees, or his skill in drawing and painting. And much of this doesn't mean anything until we discover their pasts, or until we see contrasts in their actions to how they usually are. And side note: all the bee stuff was actually really effing cool.
"Love isn’t what it’s portrayed to be, a soft fragile thing draped in flowers and hearts and sweet words. It’s gritty and painful and terrifying. It reveals truths about our nature and shows us we’re capable of things we never imagined doing before."
I don't know how to explain this, but I absolutely love how unhinged things got when these were just two people trying to live their lives. This isn't a dark romance, but it toes the line of making you question your morals in the way dark romances can.
I don't think it was perfect, and there were a few strings I would have liked tied up or at least clarification on, but I really enjoyed all of it overall. The romance was slow to build, though I wouldn't call this a slow burn. I love that they began as friends and created a relationship over time that dug in deep and strong.
No OW/OM drama. No third act breakup. No babies or pregnancies.
You could mayyyyyybe call it a HFN ending, but it's clear they'll be together forever, and SPOILERS SPOILERS SPOILERS SPOILERS SPOILERS SPOILERS SPOILERS the epilogue is set 10 years in the future and they're living together. It never says whether or not they're married, and we know from the story that they'll never have kids. I'm calling it their version of a HEA instead of a HFN though.
November 23, 2024
"For what it's worth, you've got me."
THE BEEKEEPER reminded me why romance is a genre I will never tire of. This slow-burn, friends to lovers with some thriller-ish moments worked from beginning to end.
I adored our leads Arlow and Calliope. I loved the slow growth of their friendship and the time it took for their love to grow. They genuinely liked each other, and it was shown in the way they teased each other and how smitten they both were. But each had reasons for putting the brakes on anything really happening but when feelings can't be ignored it was explosive.
I also loved Arlow's love of bees and was fascinated to read about the process of gathering the honey and how bees stay warm in the winter. The author did her homework and I'm going to make sure to look out for our little honey friends now instead of running in the opposite direction.
There was more to this story than romance though which took me by surprise. It was darker than I imagined and had me side-eyeing our leads for their actions, but you can't say they don't love fiercely because they both proved otherwise.
Highlights & Favorite Quotes
-Small town setting
-Bees & Graveyards
-Leads in their 30's
-Fun banter
-Childfree by choice
-Dark suspense
-Slow-burn with intense chemistry
-Open door
"Meet his bees? How can a man as physically intimidating as him be so adorable at the same time? It's the only description that fits him at this moment."
"Inspiration or obsession? Is there even a difference? If there is, I can't measure the distance between them."
"I have to stop lusting after this man because getting turned on over a glimpse of a back is absurd. I feel like some man getting a peek at a Victorian woman's ankle. So ridiculous."
"You don't just shine, Calliope, you blind me with it."
"I think love is what we are at our core before the world puts its hands on us. I don't know if its negative or positive or somewhere in-between, but its human. It's what we do, what we're best at."
"It's worth everything. Every risk and worry running through your head right now. You're worth it. So let that go and just tell me you love me."
"Do you know what my first thought was when I saw you in the forest?"
"Run, he's probably got a cooler full of body parts?"
"Love isn't what its portrayed to be, a soft fragile thing draped in flowers and hearts and sweet words. Its gritty and painful and terrifying. It reveals truths about our nature and shows us we're capable of things we never imagined doing before."
THE BEEKEEPER reminded me why romance is a genre I will never tire of. This slow-burn, friends to lovers with some thriller-ish moments worked from beginning to end.
I adored our leads Arlow and Calliope. I loved the slow growth of their friendship and the time it took for their love to grow. They genuinely liked each other, and it was shown in the way they teased each other and how smitten they both were. But each had reasons for putting the brakes on anything really happening but when feelings can't be ignored it was explosive.
I also loved Arlow's love of bees and was fascinated to read about the process of gathering the honey and how bees stay warm in the winter. The author did her homework and I'm going to make sure to look out for our little honey friends now instead of running in the opposite direction.
There was more to this story than romance though which took me by surprise. It was darker than I imagined and had me side-eyeing our leads for their actions, but you can't say they don't love fiercely because they both proved otherwise.
Highlights & Favorite Quotes
-Small town setting
-Bees & Graveyards
-Leads in their 30's
-Fun banter
-Childfree by choice
-Dark suspense
-Slow-burn with intense chemistry
-Open door
"Meet his bees? How can a man as physically intimidating as him be so adorable at the same time? It's the only description that fits him at this moment."
"Inspiration or obsession? Is there even a difference? If there is, I can't measure the distance between them."
"I have to stop lusting after this man because getting turned on over a glimpse of a back is absurd. I feel like some man getting a peek at a Victorian woman's ankle. So ridiculous."
"You don't just shine, Calliope, you blind me with it."
"I think love is what we are at our core before the world puts its hands on us. I don't know if its negative or positive or somewhere in-between, but its human. It's what we do, what we're best at."
"It's worth everything. Every risk and worry running through your head right now. You're worth it. So let that go and just tell me you love me."
"Do you know what my first thought was when I saw you in the forest?"
"Run, he's probably got a cooler full of body parts?"
"Love isn't what its portrayed to be, a soft fragile thing draped in flowers and hearts and sweet words. Its gritty and painful and terrifying. It reveals truths about our nature and shows us we're capable of things we never imagined doing before."
September 19, 2024
So, I absolutely love all the books I have read by SM Shade so far, and this cover is sooo pretty. I was dying to read this book.
It follows Calliope - when she moves to a new small town, in a cabin on a dead end road next door to a antisocial recluse, and an old graveyard.
All Calli wanted was a new start, but what she didn't expect was the calming effect her quiet new nature-loving neighbor had on her. But as they navigate their new friendship that could turn into something more, that's when the trouble begins.
What starts out as a few broken windows quickly escalates, forcing their secrets and past into the light.
I couldn't wait to dive into this book, thinking the suspenseful novel would be a perfect fall read to get lost into.
Calliope was on the run from her last, hoping for a fresh start. She was trying to put her past behind her and was hoping for a new beginning at life. What she didn't expect was her neighbor Arlow.
Arlow was a calm, quiet nature-lover. He kept to himself, & tended his been hives. He never gave the cabin next door to him a second thought until Calliope moved in. Something about her shined, and it resparked his artistic side.
They quickly became friends - but Calli wanted more. Something Arlow wasnt willing to give.
But when trouble started brewing for the two of them, they would be forced to share their secrets they kept hidden with each other. - would they be able to accept one another when they learned the truth?
I enjoyed the book. I liked Calli and Arlow, both had their own struggles they dealt with, making them more real and relatable. The book wasn't as suspenseful as I would have wanted, but overall it was a good contemporary read with a little suspense scattered throughout.
4⭐ out of 5⭐.
3🌶️ out of 5🌶️.
Tropes:
• contemporary romance
• protective hero
• neighbors to lovers
• 30+ age characters
Trigger Warnings:
→ stalking
→ mention of child abuse
→ mention of drug use/abuse
→ mention of car accident
→ death of a parent
→ murder
It follows Calliope - when she moves to a new small town, in a cabin on a dead end road next door to a antisocial recluse, and an old graveyard.
All Calli wanted was a new start, but what she didn't expect was the calming effect her quiet new nature-loving neighbor had on her. But as they navigate their new friendship that could turn into something more, that's when the trouble begins.
What starts out as a few broken windows quickly escalates, forcing their secrets and past into the light.
I couldn't wait to dive into this book, thinking the suspenseful novel would be a perfect fall read to get lost into.
Calliope was on the run from her last, hoping for a fresh start. She was trying to put her past behind her and was hoping for a new beginning at life. What she didn't expect was her neighbor Arlow.
Arlow was a calm, quiet nature-lover. He kept to himself, & tended his been hives. He never gave the cabin next door to him a second thought until Calliope moved in. Something about her shined, and it resparked his artistic side.
They quickly became friends - but Calli wanted more. Something Arlow wasnt willing to give.
But when trouble started brewing for the two of them, they would be forced to share their secrets they kept hidden with each other. - would they be able to accept one another when they learned the truth?
I enjoyed the book. I liked Calli and Arlow, both had their own struggles they dealt with, making them more real and relatable. The book wasn't as suspenseful as I would have wanted, but overall it was a good contemporary read with a little suspense scattered throughout.
4⭐ out of 5⭐.
3🌶️ out of 5🌶️.
Tropes:
• contemporary romance
• protective hero
• neighbors to lovers
• 30+ age characters
Trigger Warnings:
→ stalking
→ mention of child abuse
→ mention of drug use/abuse
→ mention of car accident
→ death of a parent
→ murder
September 13, 2024
Where to begin where to begin? This book was intense, interesting and different. There is a morally gray hero who is a cinnamon roll but has a bad side when needed. There is the female character trying to move on from her past who is strong and amazing but also has a bad side when needed. Put these two together and hold on because things get interesting.
Arlow is hiding is living out in the middle of nowhere basically hiding from everyone. Something happened in his past and he is trying to move on from it, but it is not so easy. Now he believes that someone involved with his past is back to seek revenge. He holds a lot of secrets and doesn't believe getting involved with anyone is the best thing.
Calliope moved next door to Arlow. She is hiding from the world as well for so many different reasons. She is just trying to live her life and figure out what happened to the one person she loves. But will she be able to see Arlow for who he really is and survive the threat against her.
These two have some steamy enjoyable chemistry once they realize what is between them. I absolutely love the suspense and mystery in this storyline and how things work out. I definitely did not see the twist coming in this one. It is that well written.
Suspense, mystery, twists, turns and love all wrapped into one amazing storyline. Highly recommend.
Arlow is hiding is living out in the middle of nowhere basically hiding from everyone. Something happened in his past and he is trying to move on from it, but it is not so easy. Now he believes that someone involved with his past is back to seek revenge. He holds a lot of secrets and doesn't believe getting involved with anyone is the best thing.
Calliope moved next door to Arlow. She is hiding from the world as well for so many different reasons. She is just trying to live her life and figure out what happened to the one person she loves. But will she be able to see Arlow for who he really is and survive the threat against her.
These two have some steamy enjoyable chemistry once they realize what is between them. I absolutely love the suspense and mystery in this storyline and how things work out. I definitely did not see the twist coming in this one. It is that well written.
Suspense, mystery, twists, turns and love all wrapped into one amazing storyline. Highly recommend.
October 7, 2024
“You shine … You light up everything around you and make it stand out.”
Holy buzzz! I dove into this book blindly, but oh was it the sweetest surprise. The Beekeeper is pure suspense meets slow-burning gold. It bursts with combustible chemistry, engaging banter and a morally gray hero who will corrupt you in the best way. This was not the sweet, small town romance I predicted; it was so much more!
The Beekeeper is a stirring romance starring an artist and his muse. Calli and Arlow are complex and compassionate characters with a charm that sucks you in. I loved them both!
A hero who doesn’t think he’s worthy but worships the heroine.
A heroine who is just learning to fly but teaches the hero to hope.
Two stunning and shattered souls who see each other ... need each other.
I fell hard for this hero and heroine who intoxicated me. And that graveyard scene was a body-melting masterpiece. The Beekeeper brings the unstoppable chemistry, the burning fire and desire, the suspenseful twists and turns, and all the sweet and soulful love.
4.5 heart-buzzing stars
➡️ https://amzn.to/4ewTb2X
Reviewed on behalf of Bookalicious Babes Blog
Holy buzzz! I dove into this book blindly, but oh was it the sweetest surprise. The Beekeeper is pure suspense meets slow-burning gold. It bursts with combustible chemistry, engaging banter and a morally gray hero who will corrupt you in the best way. This was not the sweet, small town romance I predicted; it was so much more!
The Beekeeper is a stirring romance starring an artist and his muse. Calli and Arlow are complex and compassionate characters with a charm that sucks you in. I loved them both!
A hero who doesn’t think he’s worthy but worships the heroine.
A heroine who is just learning to fly but teaches the hero to hope.
Two stunning and shattered souls who see each other ... need each other.
I fell hard for this hero and heroine who intoxicated me. And that graveyard scene was a body-melting masterpiece. The Beekeeper brings the unstoppable chemistry, the burning fire and desire, the suspenseful twists and turns, and all the sweet and soulful love.
4.5 heart-buzzing stars
➡️ https://amzn.to/4ewTb2X
Reviewed on behalf of Bookalicious Babes Blog
September 18, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
🐝Romantic suspense
💛Spicy
🐝Morally gray characters
💛Protective Hero
🐝 HEA
💛No third act breakup
🐝Clear consent
💛Characters aged 30+
🐝Childfree by choice
💛 Close proximity
Wow! This book was so fun to read. We have spice, suspense, banter, close proximity and did I mention spice? Because this book is H O T.
Arlow is the mysterious next door neighbor to Callie, who loves into the little cottage on his property. Now, I won’t say too much because literally there is so much awesomeness in this book I don’t want to ruin it for you, but I’ll tell that not everything is what is seems with this story. Just when I thought things were settling down, BAM! Another shock. Such a great read. The twist at the end literally had my jaw on the floor. JAW ON THE FLOOR I tell you.
S.M. Shade never disappoints.
Thank you to S.M. Shade and Wordsmith Publicity for the ARC of this book.
🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
🐝Romantic suspense
💛Spicy
🐝Morally gray characters
💛Protective Hero
🐝 HEA
💛No third act breakup
🐝Clear consent
💛Characters aged 30+
🐝Childfree by choice
💛 Close proximity
Wow! This book was so fun to read. We have spice, suspense, banter, close proximity and did I mention spice? Because this book is H O T.
Arlow is the mysterious next door neighbor to Callie, who loves into the little cottage on his property. Now, I won’t say too much because literally there is so much awesomeness in this book I don’t want to ruin it for you, but I’ll tell that not everything is what is seems with this story. Just when I thought things were settling down, BAM! Another shock. Such a great read. The twist at the end literally had my jaw on the floor. JAW ON THE FLOOR I tell you.
S.M. Shade never disappoints.
Thank you to S.M. Shade and Wordsmith Publicity for the ARC of this book.
September 20, 2024
Calli has moved to a new town for a fresh start and when she leases a cabin out in the middle of no where, she's over the moon.
Then she sees the neighbour, a tall broody dude who spends each night going out to the graveyard - but as always, looks can be deceiving!
When these two come face to face with no outside intrusions, it soon becomes clear that there's so much more to each of them.
It's a story of growth and overcoming past traumas, accepting love, has some steamy scenes and a lot of laughs.
But when is anything straight forward in Shade land!!
Past slights come to light and when it seems danger is on the way, then things take a turn....
Really really enjoyed it and definitely recommend ⭐⭐⭐⭐
*I voluntarily received an arc and this is my honest review
Then she sees the neighbour, a tall broody dude who spends each night going out to the graveyard - but as always, looks can be deceiving!
When these two come face to face with no outside intrusions, it soon becomes clear that there's so much more to each of them.
It's a story of growth and overcoming past traumas, accepting love, has some steamy scenes and a lot of laughs.
But when is anything straight forward in Shade land!!
Past slights come to light and when it seems danger is on the way, then things take a turn....
Really really enjoyed it and definitely recommend ⭐⭐⭐⭐
*I voluntarily received an arc and this is my honest review
October 10, 2024
This was a cute, easy to read mystery romance. I loved the sarcasm and banter, I giggled a few times. I enjoyed the mystery aspect, although I personally found it predictable.
There is friendship and romance that I found relatable, so I think that helped make the story good.
I do think it was a little too long and some stuff could’ve been cut out, like the over description of the bees or the random unnecessary drama at the end, but it didn’t ruin the story.
I do wish however, that we got more of two characters in particular and their relationship. I would’ve liked to see that blossom.
There is friendship and romance that I found relatable, so I think that helped make the story good.
I do think it was a little too long and some stuff could’ve been cut out, like the over description of the bees or the random unnecessary drama at the end, but it didn’t ruin the story.
I do wish however, that we got more of two characters in particular and their relationship. I would’ve liked to see that blossom.
September 17, 2024
I received an ARC for an honest review.
I loved Arlow and Calli! They were a great slow burn, but once they were lit on fire, can we say explosive! They were beautifully broken together. The way they helped each other heal, and move forward together was amazing to read! And all the twists and turns thrown in and you have this wonderful story that I couldn't put down!
I loved Arlow and Calli! They were a great slow burn, but once they were lit on fire, can we say explosive! They were beautifully broken together. The way they helped each other heal, and move forward together was amazing to read! And all the twists and turns thrown in and you have this wonderful story that I couldn't put down!
January 11, 2025
I loved this book. Loved Arlow and Calli. Each with there own story to be told. I loved this kind of writing. Sweet, suspense, drama, thriller, dark twists, humor. The story is so written that it unravells at a delicious ritme. How the relationship between the 2 set. Loved it. And of course the spice was so , written in a way, you ar watching a movie . It was so hmmmm. This as nice. Love Arlow and his love for bees. Whant to read more of this author. Go read! You won’t be dissapointed.
October 7, 2024
This book was so good! It was unique and had suspense, mystery, funny banter and that slow burn spice. Dual POV 🙌🏻 The chemistry between the mc’s was perfect and I even went back to re-read some of my favorite parts.
March 30, 2025
What an epic story!!
I didn’t know where it was going but I loved the entire ride!!
Arlow & Calliope’s story was absolutely amazing!
So many beautifully crafted words that truly had me reflecting!
So much going on! Tense one minute, epic romance the next!
So much love!
Amazing found-family!
I didn’t know where it was going but I loved the entire ride!!
Arlow & Calliope’s story was absolutely amazing!
So many beautifully crafted words that truly had me reflecting!
So much going on! Tense one minute, epic romance the next!
So much love!
Amazing found-family!
July 15, 2025
Not as dark as I thought once I finished reading. It read like a love story with some baggage from FMC's life that caught up with her with some twists and her weird/ominous neighbor who she builds a relationship with. And how they become a "team" when her past catches up with her new life. Very intriguing!
June 4, 2025
loved this book
The cutest little couple. Loved Arlow and love Calli. Has a little bit of everything, romance, spice, suspense, really you couldn’t ask for more!
The cutest little couple. Loved Arlow and love Calli. Has a little bit of everything, romance, spice, suspense, really you couldn’t ask for more!
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