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Lindenvale Brothers #1

The House on Lindenvale Hill

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The House on Lindenvale Hill is a dark romance novel featuring a forced proximity trope, marking it the debut book of the Lindenvale Brothers Series.

TARYN:

I’m risking everything, pursuing a job I haven’t secured and chasing a life as unpredictable as the isolated town pulling me in. But when sinister figures lurk in the shadows of my new home and gifts appear uninvited, my paranoia guides me to a bar, where an innocent night spirals into my worst nightmare.

I wake in a secluded house, engulfed by endless orchards, trapped by three dangerously gorgeous brothers who lured me here for a role I won’t accept. It’s not the confinement or caring for their siblings that terrifies me—it’s Colten. The cold, ruthless brother, running the empire and scarred by a past he can’t escape.

Feelings ignite, boundaries shatter, and I find myself unraveling the brother who refuses to let anyone in. I’m torn between choosing the freedom that’s always defined me and surrendering to a love I’ll never outrun.

COLTEN:

Every step is calculated to pull her into our world. One impulsive move to our hometown and she unknowingly seals her fate. We don’t ask for consent—we claim what's ours.

Now she’s here, and I’m losing control, drawn toward a feeling I refuse to acknowledge. My brothers and I brought her to Lindenvale Hill for our siblings, but I can’t deny—she’s here for us, too. The teacher we abducted because people always leave.

She says she wants to stay. I want to believe her. But saying she’ll stay is as easy as leaving, and that’s exactly what I’m afraid of.

Paperback

First published January 1, 2025

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About the author

Cassidy Cole

3 books90 followers
Cassidy Cole is known for her fiery romance novels that seamlessly blend plot and spice. She has always been fascinated by the vivid dreams and unconventional thoughts that play out in her mind, and now she brings them to life through her books. She lives with her husband and two dogs, finding peace in the shadows where her stories take shape.

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Website: www.cassidycoleauthor.com
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5 stars
172 (59%)
4 stars
84 (28%)
3 stars
25 (8%)
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6 (2%)
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4 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 165 reviews
Profile Image for crystal 𑁍.
105 reviews1 follower
April 2, 2026
I already know I’m gonna eat this up 🍎

…I rated this 5 stars almost a year ago. Fast forward to March ‘26 with it FINALLY in my hands and I knew even before turning the first page in the book it was staying a 5 star read.
Taryn set to embark in a new chapter with a promising job moves to Cedar Creek Cove. She’s offered instead a position she should refuse but can’t in more ways than one. Forced to stay and inclined enough to want to explore the allure of the three Lindenvale brothers. What will she do? This book took me on a roller coaster from the start. I actually felt the goosebumps on my arm when then brothers were stalking her. The imagery and the descriptions of the land and house were everything. I found myself not only loving the characters but the story inside the story. All I can say is Colton has won my entire heart. I’m not ready to say goodbye to these characters yet.
Profile Image for Sarah Bryant.
74 reviews2 followers
March 29, 2026
4.5⭐️/5🌶️ I would like to thank the author, Cassidy Cole, for this ARC. I loved this book! I first want to say, this is probably the spiciest book I’ve ever read! Super erotic! Woooo! I was like 😳 throughout the whole story! In the beginning, it was a little hard to believe based on Taryn’s reactions to being kidnapped however, aside from that, I could understand why she felt compelled to stay. The why choose moments were extremely hot! 🥵 the Lindenvale men are extremely sexy! The story of their parents was extremely tragic! All in all, I really enjoyed this story and definitely recommend it!
Profile Image for ashlee ❤.
2,194 reviews121 followers
April 11, 2026
Taryn + Colton...+ Cameron + Brennan (kind of lol)

-mf but they share her
-stalkers/abduction
-forced nanny
-new town/forced proximity
-found family
-obsessive mmcs

this was such a great romantic, suspenseful, mysterious plot & set up for a great world with these brothers! i can't wait for more, but the way these two specifically started it off & were able to be make each other better was so beautiful!
Profile Image for LeAnn.
222 reviews6 followers
April 4, 2026
All the stars in the Universe for Taryn and the Lindenvale family
♾️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️♾️

The way that I am in love with this book? Nothing I write will ever be able to express how much I love this whole book. From beginning to end, my attention was caught. I fell in love with Taryn so easily. I loved her inner monologue. She made me laugh so much because it felt like everything she said were things I would say lol. She was so relatable and realistic. I am in love with her! And the Lindenvale brother's. God they were swoon worthy!! And I can't even pick a favorite because I love them all. They are trophies 😉!

I loved learning about Taryn and her need to move around and not wanting to stay in one place. When the Lindenvale brother's finally catch her though? That's when things really start to heat up.

This book was the perfect mix of spice and plot, but it was also so much more. The relationships that Taryn formed with all the siblings is what really stole my heart. Her sweet moments with Cam, Tristan and Elena were my favorites. My heart just gushed with love. And while Brennan didn't say much, I still feel for him as well. But the true star for me was Colten. Learning about why Colt was so against being with Taryn and why he felt the way he did broke my heart. I wanted to just gather him up in a hug. When he finally lets Taryn in, my heart swelled with love. And when he called her baby 😩!!! Ugh, I love him calling her Little Ghost but it was when he said baby that I was over the moon. The spice was off the walls hot 🔥🔥🔥🔥!! Omg all of the scenes were mind meltingly sexy. I can't with these brother's. They win, I'm waving my white flag 🏳️‍!They're perfect and I wanna be a part of this family so badly. But it's the ending that really did it for me. Learning about what really happened to their family and seeing Colt allow himself to express the emotion of love? I loved it all. Cassidy's words were poetry. They were like a balm to my soul. I loved the detail, the expressive characters and the way this family loved each other. I cannot wait to reread this book already. And I need more Colten and Taryn 🙂‍↕️! I'm addicted to them.

This whole family has stolen my heart. I love all of them deeply and I cannot wait for book 2. I ate up all the crumbs that Cassidy left in this book and I am so ready for the next Lindenvale brother to get his HEA 🙌🖤🍎!

Thank you so much to Cassidy Cole for the opportunity to read an ARC of The House on Lindenvale Hill.
Profile Image for Rebeccah Reads.
55 reviews
March 7, 2026
4.5 ⭐

Thank you Cassidy for the early early ARC!

I’ve been a fan of Cassidy Cole since Little Ugly Truths, and the teasers she put out of The House on Lindenvale Hill had me hooked before I even started.

Twins that share her? ✔️
MMC that calls her Little Ghost? ✔️
Abduction? ✔️
Chase and punish? ✔️
Apples? ✔️

This book had me in a chokehold and the emotional wreckage I felt while reading was real.

The trauma, guilt and secrets unfold as you make your way through this. What is real and what is assumed?

The apple orchard provides quite a setting 😏

Chapter 29 - you’re welcome.

Colten 🖤 — intense and constantly battling his need for control. Watching his dynamic with Taryn evolve? 🔥

One thing I really appreciated was the way the book tackled heavier themes — something I feel like isn’t often explored often in dark romance.

The one thing I wanted was more between Taryn & Cameron and Brennan.

Overall, this was a dark, emotional ride full of trauma, complicated relationships, and a mystery that keeps you wondering until the end.
Profile Image for Ivy.
126 reviews1 follower
April 7, 2026
ARC Review
Very hesitant out the gate with a mysterious move to a new state OYO and then roofied + kidnapped. Like what an actual nightmare. BUT. It gets SO much better. Colten grows through all the stages of grief and adulthood in 2.5 seconds being the oldest child of 6, takes over the family business after his mother dies and father goes to jail in a few month span. The smut between Taryn and 3 of the bothers occurred often. Ultimately, she finds a home to be still, happy, and loved. That’s all a girl can dream for.
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for HollyBerryBookDragon .
62 reviews2 followers
April 22, 2026
"There may be millions of apples in these trees and crunching beneath my feet, but just like Snow White’s story, none grant wishes. Because the apple in my drink—alongside the poison they gave me—had me waking up to a nightmare and not a fucking prince."

I absolutely loved this read! It was dark, morally grey & made you question your reader moral compass ... but it was also filled with emotion, grief, pain, found family, love & the kind of spice that leaves you holding your breath 🖤

FMC Taryn was sassy but soft, she craved family & found it in the most unlikely of places within this story - at times you forgot she was actually kidnapped with how much adoration & emotion she had for those around her ... it was like a fairytale story until each time the twins showed up 🙈

The MMCs were panty melting 🫠 Twin brothers Brennan & Cameron were trouble from the get go! When they appeared on the page you knew you were in for a good morally grey time ... they alluded sex appeal & self assurance, which in turn empowered FMC Taryn - making for some great inner monologue!

Older brother Colten brought the fuel ... as soon as he stepped into the equation the sexual tension flew through the roof - he was elusive, mysterious, closed off & broody! However as the story & his walls unfolded, you just couldnt help but fall hard for him ❤️‍🔥

The spice between the brothers & Taryn was HOT! 🔥 The sexual tension was thick throughout with a combination of chasing, waiting & yearning ... alongside never knowing when the twins or Colten would appear - however when they did it literally made you hold your breath! These men take what they want & do not hold back 🖤 .... the sofa scene literally had me in a chokehold! (IYKYK) 🫠

I didnt expect to root for a HEA but Cassidy had me swooning by the end of the read just wanting & hoping for it to all turn out right 🥹 The twists & turns are sure to keep you on your toes in this one ... be prepared for the best kind of wild ride & never looking at an apple without grinning again 🤭🍎 Here's to hoping we don't have to wait too long to be back with the guys in Book 2 🤞
Profile Image for Marissa.Reads.
380 reviews427 followers
April 11, 2026
When you mix 3 incredibly hot brothers, twins that share well..everything, a side of kidnapping & trauma, and a sprinkle of mystery you get this wild ride!

Taryn doesn’t stay in one place for long, so when she thinks she lands the perfect teaching job she packs up her life without looking back. Little does she know she’s been on the Lindenvale brother’s radar for a while. When the perfect jobs turns into being kidnapped by them, only to be told she’s the new nanny for their two younger siblings. There’s only 3 rules..

Rule #1: Ensure they are happy at all times.
Rule #2: Convince them everything is normal.
Rule #3: Trying to escape and acting out will not be tolerated, and you will be punished.

The only problem is Taryn might just like their form or punishment a little too much.

When the Lindenvale brothers are left to pick up the pieces after their mother disappears, and their father goes to prison their lives revolve around their apple orchard, and making sure their two younger siblings are taken care of. They’ll do that by any means necessary, even if it’s a little illegal.

While all 3 brothers do share Taryn, she only chooses one in the end. I will say there’s a certain sharing scene that will live rent free in my brain for the foreseeable future. I loved every single one of the brothers, but who she chooses in the end was definitely obvious from the start, as well as who the other brothers love interests truly are. Nonetheless, I cannot wait for the other siblings books. If you’re a fan of romantic suspense, amazing character growth, and an incredible healing journey this book is for you!

Thank you so much to Cassidy Cole for the opportunity to read this pre-release in exchange for my honest review.
Profile Image for Asti.
179 reviews5 followers
April 22, 2026
This had a touch of dark romance, but not too dark. I mean, she gets abducted and held against her will, but also not really because she’s living with three sinfully HOT brothers whose “punishment” involves sexual favors. Who could resist? I know I couldn’t. 😅

And then you have the cutest little siblings she’s supposed to nanny for. I couldn’t help but fall in love with them too.

The spice is out of this world… filthy and delicious. That group play scene had me dripping. Ok, calm down Asti. 🤣

And that cliff scene toward the end had my jaw on the floor. If I wasn’t already hooked, that would have done it.

This was my intro to Cassidy Cole, so thank you for the ARC. I’m so glad I gave this a chance because I devoured every page and became obsessed with every character. I can’t wait for Cameron’s story next!

What to expect:

🍎 3 stalker brothers
🍎 virgin-ish FMC
🍎 dark & suspenseful elements
🍎 abducted to nanny their younger siblings
🍎 shared FMC but she chooses 1
🍎 toy & group play (DP)
🍎 found family
Profile Image for Catherine.
516 reviews9 followers
April 21, 2026
This was a fun read. The teasers on instagram made me excited to read this book. I was pulled in by the idea of a girl being kidnapped and trapped in the middle of a massive apple orchard and forest. I enjoyed the characters and their interactions with each other. Especially in the beginning.

Taryn is sweet and caring. Cameron is slightly twisted but has a kind heart. Brennan is protective, watchful, and also a little twisted. Then there is Colton, who is the head of the family, always making sure everyone has what they need. He will do and sacrifice anything for his family.

As much as I enjoyed this book, I had a hard time believing some of the plot points, but the vibes were good, so I didn't care.
Profile Image for Elizabeth Gilliard.
16 reviews1 follower
April 8, 2026

Thank you Cassidy Cole for this ARC! This book did not come to play! The dynamic? Messy. Complicated. Morally gray in all the best/worst ways. And somehow, in the middle of all that chaos, there’s this thread of connection and belonging that sneaks up on you and hits HARD. 5 stars, no hesitation. I’m obsessed, slightly disturbed, and already desperate for whatever Cassidy Cole gives us next, especially more of the Lindenvale Brothers 🔥😮‍💨
Profile Image for Danielle Lawson.
468 reviews1 follower
April 7, 2026
First, I want to thank Cassidy Cole for the opportunity to arc read this beautiful work that wrecked me in the best way!!
I loved everything about this book from cover to cover. I laughed, I stamped my feet at the most toe curling 🌶 and cried as the pure and raw emotion dragged me under. I am so glad this is the first book, and I can't wait to see what comes next for all of them!
Profile Image for Britny Moore.
63 reviews14 followers
April 14, 2026
In the beginning this book gave off thriller and dark romance vibes , in the best way . But getting into it, it’s 100% dark romance . And it will have your emotions all over the place. From frustrated and angsty to tearing up and cheering.
This book is amazing in so many ways! The spice ? Chefs kiss 👌🏼 the plot ? Heck yes 👏 the emotional rollercoaster you ride ? Strap in 🎢
Profile Image for Calla Hess.
19 reviews3 followers
April 1, 2026
So grateful to be able to read this ARC!! I was a BIG fan! I feel like this book had everything! Kidnaping, romance, SPICE lots of spice, a little mystery murder situation… Taryn really went thru it and of course the hottie brothers 😍🍎 LOVED
Profile Image for Haley Croft.
2 reviews5 followers
April 14, 2026
Thank you Cassidy for giving me this ARC in exchange for my review!

This book had me in a full-on chokehold from start to finish.
You’ve got three incredibly hot brothers (including twins who…share 👀), a FMC who gets abducted and forced into this twisted nanny situation, and a story layered with trauma, secrets, and just enough mystery to keep you constantly questioning what’s real vs. what’s assumed. Taryn thinks she’s landing the perfect teaching job, only to end up tangled in the Lindenvale brothers’ world—and honestly, I ate up every second of it.

The tension builds fast. There are rules, there’s punishment, there’s chasing… and somehow Taryn doesn’t exactly hate it 😅 The emotional wreckage in this one? VERY real. The trauma, guilt, and unraveling truths hit harder than I expected for a dark romance.

And Colten?? The intensity. The control. The way his dynamic with Taryn evolves was easily one of my favorite parts. Im obsessed with him calling her “Little Ghost”. You can feel the push and pull the entire time. Also… chapter 29. You’re welcome.

If you’re into dark romance with possessive MMCs, emotional depth, a touch of suspense, and scenes that will live rent-free in your head… this one’s for you.
Profile Image for Alexia .p. reads.
282 reviews24 followers
April 23, 2026
You know what? HELL YEAH!
Light dark romance but full of emotional trauma and great writing. Excellent character development too!
Profile Image for Leah Alexander.
68 reviews
May 11, 2026
Sooooo worth the wait and the 4 hours of sleep I got last night
Profile Image for Priscilla .
27 reviews8 followers
April 14, 2026
This book completely wrecked me in the best way possible. An easy five stars without hesitation. From the moment I read the dedication, I knew I was about to be consumed, and I absolutely was. Taryn’s story with the Lindenvale brothers is dark, twisted, and utterly addictive. The dynamic between the twins and their older brother created this intense push and pull that had me hooked, especially as tension, obsession, and desire blurred together in such a haunting way. The “little ghost” element between Taryn and the oldest brother was everything. There was something so raw and emotional about being truly seen by someone when no one else does, and it added such depth to their connection.

The story balances spice and plot perfectly, never sacrificing one for the other, and the emotional weight behind it all made every moment hit harder. It’s not just dark for the sake of it, there’s trauma, mystery, and layers of complexity that kept me turning pages nonstop. I devoured this in one day and felt every high and low right alongside the characters. If you love morally gray men, possessive energy, and a story that pulls you into the shadows and doesn’t let go, this one delivers in every way.

Thank you Cassidy Cole for the opportunity to read this ARC !
Profile Image for Rose DeVault.
670 reviews27 followers
April 13, 2026
3.5 stars...

I was super excited for this story and it had a lot of potential but unfortunately some parts felt a bit flat. I had a hard time getting into the story at the beginning and the dynamics between the twins & older brother kind of threw me off even though I knew it was coming. And the poor FMC was being was probably just as confused as I was lol.

After about 50ish percent the story did start to pick up a bit and I felt intrigued. Cassidy did set up the next book in this series very nicely.

Profile Image for justmichellereading.
5 reviews
April 9, 2026
“Obsessions have the power to destroy you, and Little Ghost will not become one of mine”

5/5- stars
4/5 - spice

The plot alone had me SAT and feverishing applying to be an ARC reader. Hooked from the beginning is such an understatement, as a scorpio, I am exactly where I want to be. A nanny trapped in the centre of an apple orchard with three brothers, might I add very morally grey brothers- I AM SEATED.

The amount of times where I had to put my kindle down and pace around my house to just catch my breath….consider my socks rocked the fuck off. The amount of tension, or should I say edging… that goes on around here will put you into ovulation.

Between all the steam and tension, the building of every individual character is so thoughtfully done, every backstory and every flashback was done so well that you could not even expect how thrilling the ending truly was. If I had my memory erased, this would be the first book I would want to read again to just feel the thrill of being up until 2 am and reading ‘Fuck it” while I giggle to myself.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
2 reviews
April 15, 2026
I got the honor to ARC read this book! This was the spiciest book I've ever read but it was sooo good! Even though the spicy was a main part of the book the main story was amazing and the end had me in tears! Very very good I absolutely loved reading this book and definitely recommend especially if you love a spicy book!
Profile Image for Kayla Di Marzio.
1 review
March 30, 2026
ARC REVIEW: This book was so touching. The progression of relationships was written so beautifully, as well as the internal struggles and overcoming them. It was a satisfying story that was tied up so well. The setting was so unique and fit the story immaculately, and helped develop the story even further. Highly recommend!!
Profile Image for Caroline | tropes.and.pageturners.
130 reviews10 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
March 30, 2026
A big thank you to the author for this ARC and letting me read it in advance of the release date. This is my honest opinion of the book, that I really think delivered on my expectations. Minor spoilers ahead.

Some books pull you in slowly.
This one quietly opens the door, lets you step inside… and before you realize it, you’re emotionally entangled with three brothers, a complicated heroine, and a house that feels like it’s holding secrets in every corner. 🏚️✨

First, I have to talk about the writing, because this is where the book truly shines.

Cassidy Cole’s writing is incredibly smooth and immersive. The story flows effortlessly, and the descriptions are detailed without ever feeling heavy or overdone. I had no trouble picturing the house, the surroundings, or the characters. Everything felt vivid and atmospheric, like stepping into a quiet, slightly unsettling small-town world where something deeper is always simmering beneath the surface.

It’s one of those books that’s very easy to read, but still feels layered and intentional. The pacing works well, and the emotional tension builds naturally throughout the story. I never felt rushed, but I also never felt bored. The balance between character development, tension, and relationship dynamics was handled really well.

And one of the things that really elevated the atmosphere for me was the secrets of the past. The mystery surrounding the disappearance of their mother added this haunting, almost ghostlike presence throughout the story. It lingered in the background, quietly shaping the brothers, the house, and the emotional tension. It gave the book an extra layer of depth and unease that I absolutely loved. It wasn't just romance, it felt like stepping into a family history filled with unanswered questions and emotional scars.

Now… let's talk about the relationship dynamics.

This book features three MMCs, but it’s not your traditional why choose. Instead, there’s a sense of experimentation and emotional exploration between Taryn and all three brothers. However, the true romantic focus is clearly Colten, and the story is structured in a way that makes it feel like the beginning of a larger interconnected series.

And honestly? I loved that.

It feels like Cassidy Cole is carefully laying the groundwork for future books, and I’m already very curious about Cameron and Brennan. Each brother feels distinct, with their own personalities and emotional layers, and I’m genuinely hoping we’ll see their stories explored further. The dynamic between them adds another layer of complexity to the story that kept me very invested.

That said… this is definitely one of those books where you need to leave your feminism at the door.

There are quite a few questionable decisions and dynamics that might not work for every reader. Some moments made me pause and raise an eyebrow, but they also fit the tone of the story and the characters involved. It creates a slightly uncomfortable, tension-filled atmosphere that actually works well within the world Cassidy Cole has built.

Another aspect I really enjoyed was the younger siblings. They added a softer, more grounded element to the story and made the family dynamics feel more realistic and layered. It’s not something you always see in romance, and it brought a refreshing and heartfelt touch to the overall narrative.

Also… there’s a dog.
And everything is better with a dog. Always. 🐶

And we need to talk about the spice.
Because wow.

The spice in this book was immaculate. Toe curlingly good. The kind that sneaks up on you, builds tension, and then delivers in a way that feels completely earned. It fit the tone of the story perfectly, adding to the intensity between the characters without overshadowing the emotional development. It was hot, compelling, and very well written, which made the dynamics between Taryn and the brothers even more addictive to read.

However, I do have one thing that kept this from being a five-star read for me.

As a dog mom, I struggled with the fact that Taryn wasn’t more bothered by Colten essentially claiming her dog as his and not allowing her to have him at the house. That felt unrealistic to me, and it pulled me out of the story a little. Personally, I would have expected more resistance or emotional reaction from her, especially considering how attached most people are to their pets.

It’s a small detail in the grand scheme of the story, but it stood out enough for me to knock the rating down slightly.

Overall, The House on Lindenvale Hill is a beautifully written, atmospheric romance with complex dynamics, compelling characters, and a strong foundation for what feels like a very promising series. Cassidy Cole has created a world that’s easy to sink into, and characters that leave you wanting to know more.

Secrets from the past, haunting family dynamics, toe-curling spice, and layered relationships… this one kept me completely invested from beginning to end.

A solid 4-stars for me. I will definitely read more of Cassidy's books.
Profile Image for Kirsty.
684 reviews18 followers
April 10, 2026
The House on Lindenvale Hill by Cassidy Cole is the kind of dark romance that creeps under your skin and just… stays there, humming. It’s eerie, obsessive, a little feral in the best way, and I devoured it like I was starving.

Taryn? I loved her. She’s not some fragile girl waiting to be rescued. She’s stubborn, curious, and walking straight into chaos with her eyes open… even when every instinct is screaming at her to run. And honestly, the way her paranoia builds at the start? Chef’s kiss. The tension feels like a storm rolling in, slow and heavy, until suddenly you’re in the middle of it.

And then there are the brothers.

Listen. The Lindenvale brothers are not walking green flags. They are red flags. Crimson. Siren-blaring, “you should leave immediately” energy… and yet I did not want to leave. Not even a little.

Colten? Cold, controlled, emotionally barricaded Colten? Yeah, he wrecked me. There’s something about a man who is trying so hard not to feel anything… and failing anyway. Every crack in his armor felt earned, and when he starts slipping? Game over. I was gone.

The forced proximity trope here is done so well it almost feels suffocating in the best way. The isolation, the orchards, the house itself… it all feels like its own character. Beautiful but haunting. Like something is always watching. Waiting. The atmosphere is thick, almost claustrophobic, and it makes every interaction sharper, more intense.

And the romance? Dark. Messy. Morally questionable. Exactly what it promises to be. This is not a soft love story. It’s possessive, tangled, and complicated, with emotions that feel more like wildfire than a gentle spark.

But what really got me was the emotional undercurrent. Beneath all the control and obsession, there’s this deep fear of abandonment threading through everything. It gives the story weight, makes the characters feel raw and real instead of just dangerous for the sake of it.

I finished this book with that dazed, slightly unhinged feeling you get when a story fully consumes you. Like you’ve been somewhere else for a while and you’re not entirely sure you want to come back.

If you love dark romance with edge, atmosphere, and characters that blur every line they cross… Lindenvale Hill is calling. And trust me, once you answer, it’s not letting you go.
117 reviews2 followers
April 23, 2026
This book was SO MUCH MORE than I anticipated!!!!

First, it's very spicy. Verryyy spicy lol. Second? It's so much more than just a spicy kidnapping/captivity story. The Lindenvale siblings have been through the wringer--5 years ago their mother went missing, and a few months later their father was arrested and charged with her murder, despite never finding her car or body. Colten, the oldest of 6 siblings, was thrown into the role of heading the family's nationwide, multi- million Apple production company, AND being the new keeper of all of his siblings overnight as they dealt with the aftermath of losing both parents. Now, as their eldest sister Jessica prepares to leave for college, they need someone to help with their younger siblings Tristan (7) and Elena (5), as Colten (28) and his twin brothers Cameron and Brennan (24) run the apple orchard. But with everything that they've been through, they need someone Perfect for their little siblings--and someone who won't be leaving them like they already lost their parents. What's a family to do? Plan an elaborate scheme to kidnap the perfect candidate and trap them inside the orchard, of course.

Taryn is used to picking up and just moving around. With parents who wanted to travel more than they ever really wanted to be parents, she's shuffled around her whole childhood at the whims of her parents. As such, she's never really learned how to put roots down somewhere. So when she happens to run across a new teaching position in Cedar Creek Cove, she applies, and tells her interviewer mid- interview that she is already moving to Cedar Creek. Just like that, she decided to leave her current state and move to Washington. But when she gets there, odd things start happening, until one night she's out having a drink... and wakes up locked in a room in a giant apple orchard. W. T. F.

What follows is an unexpectedly deep and emotional story of a group of siblings who lost everything except each other, and the girl who healed them. Watching Colten grow and develop through this story was incredible--he was so focused on keeping his siblings together that he shut himself off from everything, pushing it deep down and locking it away in order to keep everyone else above water. But then Taryn enters the picture and slowly but surely starts breaking down all his walls until he can't bear it anymore. But as those walls start breaking down, secrets start coming out, and NOTHING is what it seems...

There is an initial 2-ish sharing scenes between the twin brothers and Taryn, however this is NOT a why choose, and she ends up with just 1 of the 6 siblings. I thought I had this story figured out until chapter 43 left my mouth hanging wide open, chapter 47 had me sobbing on the couch, and chapter 49 + the epilogue put my heart back together. Amazing. Truly shocked me and just still can't get over how much deeper this book was than I was initially anticipating. I can't WAIT for Cameron's story!!!
Profile Image for Dani-Lynn Harris.
Author 4 books15 followers
April 22, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - 𝓻𝓪𝓽𝓮
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ - 𝓼𝓹𝓲𝓬𝓮
🔥🔥🔥 - 𝓹𝓵𝓸𝓽
🩸🩸 - 𝓰𝓸𝓻𝓮

🖤 𝓶𝓪𝓲𝓷 𝓬𝓱𝓪𝓻𝓪𝓬𝓽𝓮𝓻𝓼🖤
Taryn, Brennan, Cameron, & Colten

🖤 𝓽𝓻𝓸𝓹𝓮𝓼🖤
📕kidnapping
📕power imbalance
📕stalking
📕sexual violence
📕postpartum depression

🖤 𝓻𝓮𝓿𝓲𝓮𝔀🖤
The House on Lindenvale Hill is a thrilling story that grabs you from the start and doesn’t release until the end. A psychological thriller mashed with dark romance where the smut gets heavy but the passion gets heavier. A wonderfully paced,

*spoilers*

Taryn has made the move to a small town in hopes to get the second grade teaching opportunity. She’s passed all the online interviews but she’s nervous about the in-person one, as the questions asked became too personal that she walked out. While at a local eatery and bar, she meets the owner and asks for a job as a back-up plan but he even states they’re not hiring at the moment. So she orders a drink and decides to wait it out. But when she gets suggested a margarita, she doesn’t picture a pretty apple margarita sitting at the bar when she gets back from the bathroom.

But that drink has been spiked and by the time she realizes it, it’s too late. And now, she’s woken up in a bedroom that’s not her own. In a house surrounded by a maze of orchid trees. She’s not allowed to leave because the house needs her. More importantly, two little kids need her. And the males of the house will ensure she wants to stay on her own rather than making her. But the people of the town look at the house peculiarly because of an incident that involved their father.

The longer she’s in the house, the more attached she comes to the people. Particularly, Colten and the small kiddos. The further you reach in the story, the more secrets are revealed until the incident is uncovered and you find out exactly what happened that night after a climactic ending that will leave you shook and then overwhelmed with happiness.

This book has everything. The heavy spice, including Taryn taking three brothers at the same time. It’s got a psychological mystery unraveled by the end. Characters that are likable even when they’re not supposed to be. And an ending that completes the story perfectly. As a first time read by the author, I can guarantee, it won’t be my last.
Profile Image for Sam Viola.
4 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
March 25, 2026
✨ARC review✨

I really enjoyed this book!
The overall story and romance was surprisingly sweet💕 and a good amount spicy 🌶️I say surprising given the trigger warnings and dark setup prior to the bulk of the plot.

To me, this is definitely dark-lite 🩶 Despite the dark elements (ie stalking with drugging involved, kidnapping and microchipping etc), the author really softens the blow of anything dark for the reader. By this I mean consent check-ins even though FMC is technically captive, apologies, sweet moments with all the characters, and a lot of thoughts from the FMC about how she's feeling so the reader knows she is not traumatized and moreso intrigued pretty early on🍎

I loved the familial loyalty and love, and how that begins to include the FMC with found family vibes, and overall I liked all the characters! As for the spice🔥 I thought it was well written and fun, and makes the transition from MFMM to MF relatively smoothly- I haven't seen/read much of this particular trope before so that was fresh!

I rated 4⭐ just for a couple of reasons
1. There really was a lot packed in here, which does mean less detail or background on certain plot elements as there isn't as much time for them-examples being:
-how they actually managed to choose the FMC and get her to move to town (a lot of suspended disbelief)
-The drama of the missing mom- that it all gets resolved really quickly at the end seemed a bit rushed as well
2. Given the dark-lite vibes I was getting from pretty much the whole story, some of the plot items rubbed me the wrong way, including the microchip- that's something I feel like would have been a way bigger worry/issue than it was, and also there is nothing that would lead me to believe this is something these characters would have access to so I just got pulled out of the story a bit.

That being said, some suspended disbelief and glossing over of things is pretty usual overall in a romance read for me, and I think this was a fun book and look forward to more from the characters and the author! 💜
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Charlene Atmo.
33 reviews
April 8, 2026
The story is about Taryn. She is a free spirit who can never stay at one place for too long and settle down somewhere. Now she’s moving again to pursue a job she hasn’t even secured yet. But on the day she has her interview everything changes for her. She ends up in a bar that night and wakes up the next morning in an unknown location. When she looks out her window she sees a huge apple orchard. This is the start of her new life.
The apple orchard is owned by the Lindenvale family. There is the oldest brother Colten, his two younger twin brothers Brennan and Cameron, a younger sister Jessica and their youngest siblings Tristan and Elena. They’ve been through something traumatic 5 years ago and nothing has been the same since. Taryn is forced to be the nanny for the youngest siblings, but the three brothers might want her for themselves too.

I absolutely love this book. From start to finish I couldn’t put it down. Early on you get a glimpse of the mystery that surrounds the Lindenvale family, without giving everything away. It’s such a beautiful story about family and at times it felt so wholesome. Even though there is no excuse for the kidnapping, the reason behind it is so sad. The Lindenvale family has been through a lot but they could always count on each other.
My favorite character in the book, besides the fierce FMC was definitely Colten. He comes across as a grumpy and at times heartless person but there is so much more to him than meets the eye. He only wants what’s best for his family. Family always comes first with him.

The ending had me gasping. It was so unexpected and my emotions went all over the place. It had me on the edge of my seat the whole time and I lost some sleep because I needed to know how it would all unfold. This is such an easy read and it certainly doesn’t have a single dull moment in it. Also there’s enough spice to get you all hot and bothered.
Overall a really beautiful and at times sad story, but you’ll get your well deserved HEA. Another 5 star read by Cassidy Cole.

Thank you Cassidy Cole for the e.ARC!
Profile Image for Cozystephaniereads.
57 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
March 28, 2026
The House on Lindenvale Hill was thrilling, hot, and surprisingly emotional in a way I did not expect going in. The premise alone is wild! Taryn moves across the country for what she thinks is a teaching opportunity, only to be tricked and essentially kidnapped to become a nanny for a family with a dark past tied to their massive apple orchard. It sounds chaotic (and it is), but the story leans heavily into found family, emotional connection, and healing in a way that really worked for me.
Taryn was such an easy character to love. She’s someone who has spent her life moving around, never really putting down roots, and you can feel how deeply she just wants to be loved and cared for. Watching her build connections with the children was one of the sweetest parts of the book.
Colten was equally compelling. He’s been forced to grow up too fast, carrying the weight of his family, the business, and his siblings. He doesn’t trust himself to love, but the way Taryn slowly breaks down those walls was so satisfying. And the dynamic between the brothers added another layer of tension and heat, making everything even more intense.
The mix of dark romance elements of kidnapping, stalking, morally gray decisions, and the softer found-family moments created an addictive reading experience. The pacing was fast, and I absolutely devoured this book.
There were so many standout scenes, but the hayride moment was a favorite. It perfectly captured the mix of tension, emotion, and connection that made this story so engaging. I genuinely don’t have any critiques. I loved this from start to finish and am already hoping for more stories in this world (Cameron and Adelaide, please). If you enjoy dark romance with emotional depth, strong character connections, and a bit of chaos, this is definitely worth picking up.
Thank you to Cassidy Cole for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of The House on Lindenvale Hill. All thoughts are my own.
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