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Raptured Souls
A he falls first, new to town romantic suspense from USA Today Bestselling Author Persephone Autumn
Love is the only thing I’ve given up on. Until I meet the broody, secret son of Stone Bay’s biggest recluse.
Devastation consumed me when my first love took his last breath. But after years of healing, I found the courage to date again. To move forward.
But the glint of happiness I discovered quickly morphed into my biggest nightmare. One night was all it took to put my walls back up. One night made me doubt I’d ever love again.
Until Maddox Freeman drives into town.
Although our connection is instantaneous, I shield my heart. Maddox is a stranger, a client, a mystery. But somewhere deep down, he feels familiar, profound. Important. More. And somehow, I know Maddox feels it too.
Wanting to know the man behind the grumpy exterior, I offer to help him renovate the house he inherited in Stone Bay. And in the weeks that follow, I slowly let him in. I slowly open my heart again.
While sifting through boxes, I uncover something monumental. Stumble upon secrets that will change Stone Bay forever.
As Maddox and I fall harder, as I unearth more secrets about the town, as I recruit others to help me get the truth about Stone Bay out, the ghosts of the past resurface. Warn us to stop digging through the town’s history. Put our lives in jeopardy—to scare us off, and make Maddox leave. But we refuse to cower.
And as the truth about Stone Bay and the Seven is exposed, Maddox and I fight to stay alive.
**Raptured Souls is a standalone story in the Stone Bay series, but for a more enjoyable reading experience, it is highly recommended that you read the previous books beforehand.
Love is the only thing I’ve given up on. Until I meet the broody, secret son of Stone Bay’s biggest recluse.
Devastation consumed me when my first love took his last breath. But after years of healing, I found the courage to date again. To move forward.
But the glint of happiness I discovered quickly morphed into my biggest nightmare. One night was all it took to put my walls back up. One night made me doubt I’d ever love again.
Until Maddox Freeman drives into town.
Although our connection is instantaneous, I shield my heart. Maddox is a stranger, a client, a mystery. But somewhere deep down, he feels familiar, profound. Important. More. And somehow, I know Maddox feels it too.
Wanting to know the man behind the grumpy exterior, I offer to help him renovate the house he inherited in Stone Bay. And in the weeks that follow, I slowly let him in. I slowly open my heart again.
While sifting through boxes, I uncover something monumental. Stumble upon secrets that will change Stone Bay forever.
As Maddox and I fall harder, as I unearth more secrets about the town, as I recruit others to help me get the truth about Stone Bay out, the ghosts of the past resurface. Warn us to stop digging through the town’s history. Put our lives in jeopardy—to scare us off, and make Maddox leave. But we refuse to cower.
And as the truth about Stone Bay and the Seven is exposed, Maddox and I fight to stay alive.
**Raptured Souls is a standalone story in the Stone Bay series, but for a more enjoyable reading experience, it is highly recommended that you read the previous books beforehand.
375 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 20, 2025
4 people are currently reading
15 people want to read
About the author
Persephone Autumn
49 books326 followersUSA Today Bestselling Author Persephone Autumn lives in Florida with her wife, crazy dog, and two lover-boy cats. A proud mom with a cuckoo grandpup. An ethnic food enthusiast who has fun discovering ways to veganize her favorite non-vegan foods. If given the opportunity, she would intentionally get lost in nature.
For years, Persephone did some form of writing; mostly journaling or poetry. After pairing her poetry with images and posting them online, she began the journey of writing her first novel.
She mainly writes romance and poetry, but on occasion dips her toes in other works. Look for her non-romance publications under P. Autumn.
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For years, Persephone did some form of writing; mostly journaling or poetry. After pairing her poetry with images and posting them online, she began the journey of writing her first novel.
She mainly writes romance and poetry, but on occasion dips her toes in other works. Look for her non-romance publications under P. Autumn.
Stay up to date with Persephone!
Newsletter
Connect with Persephone!
Reader's Group
Book Bub
Binge Books
Amazon
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
March 20, 2025
Persephone 🥹💙 This was absolutely brilliant! I couldn't put this down from the first word. Everything about this couple and suspense filled storyline had me 🤭 Emery and Maddox 🔥🧎♀️ My new favorites! Thank you so much for the ARC 💙
Maddox Freeman 🔥🤭 Tall, handsome, older 😏, grumpy, owner of a successful constrution company, patient, kind, rich, protective, possessive, filthy mouthed, touch her and d*e, "mine" and obsessed with the woman who stole his breath and every thought since he saw her 🥹🤚 He arrives in Stone Bay after his mother informs him that he's inherited his deceased father's property. The problem? His identity was always a secret. He arrives only to find it heavily falling apart. While he decides on what to do, he meets the woman who claims his heart forever. He supports and cherishes her like no other, and looks for any opportunity to just be in the same space as her, and does everything to make her feel safe and trust him 🥹❤️ Leave Emery falling for him, I fell for him instantly.
Emery Barron 🥹🤭 I was instantly protective of her and cheered her on! Beautiful, intelligent, a successful property lawyer, kind, patient, shy, brave, protective, possessive, loving, humble and drawn to the stranger who causes her to lose her breath the second she looks into his sparkling blue eyes 🥹 Emery happens to stumble upon buried secrets involving the founding families of Stone Bay while spending time with Maddox and helping renovate his new house. She's faced with the impossible choice to either expose the truth or leave things as they are. I was immensely proud of Emery and how hard she fought for Maddox and their love. They are each other's strength and support system 🥹🔥 She is easily one of my most favorite and adored FMC's!
Their chemistry, love, and attaction were instantaneous, and neither could deny it 😍 The spice and angst 🔥🧎♀️ Holy shitttt Persephone! The writing, storyline, and characters are perfect and intriguing as always! I really loved seeing all the previous couples 🥹
Maddox Freeman 🔥🤭 Tall, handsome, older 😏, grumpy, owner of a successful constrution company, patient, kind, rich, protective, possessive, filthy mouthed, touch her and d*e, "mine" and obsessed with the woman who stole his breath and every thought since he saw her 🥹🤚 He arrives in Stone Bay after his mother informs him that he's inherited his deceased father's property. The problem? His identity was always a secret. He arrives only to find it heavily falling apart. While he decides on what to do, he meets the woman who claims his heart forever. He supports and cherishes her like no other, and looks for any opportunity to just be in the same space as her, and does everything to make her feel safe and trust him 🥹❤️ Leave Emery falling for him, I fell for him instantly.
Emery Barron 🥹🤭 I was instantly protective of her and cheered her on! Beautiful, intelligent, a successful property lawyer, kind, patient, shy, brave, protective, possessive, loving, humble and drawn to the stranger who causes her to lose her breath the second she looks into his sparkling blue eyes 🥹 Emery happens to stumble upon buried secrets involving the founding families of Stone Bay while spending time with Maddox and helping renovate his new house. She's faced with the impossible choice to either expose the truth or leave things as they are. I was immensely proud of Emery and how hard she fought for Maddox and their love. They are each other's strength and support system 🥹🔥 She is easily one of my most favorite and adored FMC's!
Their chemistry, love, and attaction were instantaneous, and neither could deny it 😍 The spice and angst 🔥🧎♀️ Holy shitttt Persephone! The writing, storyline, and characters are perfect and intriguing as always! I really loved seeing all the previous couples 🥹
March 17, 2025
Just finished this gorgeous arc, and I absolutely loved it! Thank you so much to @persephoneautumn and @theauthor.agency for my arc copy!
Raptured Souls is the fifth book in the Stone Bay series, but can be read as a standalone. This’s a he falls first, age gap, BWWM romance between Emery, and Maddox.
I really felt for Emery as she does everything she can to make the best life for herself. I loved watching her open up and let Maddox into her life, but I also understood how difficult it was for her to believe that he could stay with her and be happy. I completely understood the war inside her, torn between wanting Maddox in her lives, and telling herself that he’s better off without her. I loved watching her heal from her past, accepting him into her life, and wanting to fight for her own life again.
I loved that Maddox had his own healing to do before he could be with Emery. He also has issues from a past relationship he has to overcome before he can trust Emery with his heart. But that doesn’t stop him from caring about her, as he takes on these task to help her adjust to her new life, offering Emery friendship before anything becomes romantic between the two of them. I loved that it was important to him that they take their time, letting their relationship progress naturally, always wanting Emery to feel safe with him. When he does find out about her past, his protective instincts are top notch; jumping into action to protect her, while at the same time, acknowledging that Emery is a strong, independent woman who can take care of herself in some situations.
This was such a beautiful story about learning to love again when you never thought you would, and I highly recommend picking this up on KU, this Thursday, March 20th💗
Raptured Souls is the fifth book in the Stone Bay series, but can be read as a standalone. This’s a he falls first, age gap, BWWM romance between Emery, and Maddox.
I really felt for Emery as she does everything she can to make the best life for herself. I loved watching her open up and let Maddox into her life, but I also understood how difficult it was for her to believe that he could stay with her and be happy. I completely understood the war inside her, torn between wanting Maddox in her lives, and telling herself that he’s better off without her. I loved watching her heal from her past, accepting him into her life, and wanting to fight for her own life again.
I loved that Maddox had his own healing to do before he could be with Emery. He also has issues from a past relationship he has to overcome before he can trust Emery with his heart. But that doesn’t stop him from caring about her, as he takes on these task to help her adjust to her new life, offering Emery friendship before anything becomes romantic between the two of them. I loved that it was important to him that they take their time, letting their relationship progress naturally, always wanting Emery to feel safe with him. When he does find out about her past, his protective instincts are top notch; jumping into action to protect her, while at the same time, acknowledging that Emery is a strong, independent woman who can take care of herself in some situations.
This was such a beautiful story about learning to love again when you never thought you would, and I highly recommend picking this up on KU, this Thursday, March 20th💗
March 26, 2025
“Enraptured by the way his soul calls out to mine like an echoed whisper in the night. “
Raptured Souls perfectly encapsulates the power of true love and soulmates! I loved the immediate chemistry between Emery & Maddox. This book is emotion packed, you’ll laugh, cry, and swoon! Both characters are so resilient and brave; they have been through so much and deserved their own happy ending.
Autumn did an amazing job creating a love story that was tested by many obstacles but prevailed in the end. I loved the build up of Emery and Maddox’s relationship. Their romance escalated at such a natural pace as they began their relationship from just fiends to more, finding so much comfort in each other’s presence. Both have tainted pasts when it comes to relationships, so it was beautiful to see them take the time to get to know one another on such a deep level so they could better support and care for the other. Emery has so much love for Maddox - she feels valued, seen and most importantly safe with him. Maddox is fiercely protective of Emery - he has fallen and fallen hard; he will do anything to protect and support her.
I loved the addition to the plot that the notorious Seven brought to this book. Seeing Emery fight for justice and bring to light the wrongdoings of the Seven in Stone Bay was a welcome incorporation to the myth of this group that we have learned so much about in this series! Maddox supporting her and her cause was swoonworthy! The things he did to aide and encourage her on this search were incredibly thoughtful.
Persephone did such an incredible job representing domestic issues, past trauma, and self doubt in regard to the effect that plays on new relationships. This story is an incredible read regarding self-discovery, second chances, and surrounding yourself with people who support you for who you truly are.
Thank you so much to the Author Agency and Persephone Autumn for the early copy to review! This book is filled with deep emotions, suspense for days, and characters you can really relate to! It is an amazing age gap romantic suspense that embodies hope, love & trust.
Raptured Souls perfectly encapsulates the power of true love and soulmates! I loved the immediate chemistry between Emery & Maddox. This book is emotion packed, you’ll laugh, cry, and swoon! Both characters are so resilient and brave; they have been through so much and deserved their own happy ending.
Autumn did an amazing job creating a love story that was tested by many obstacles but prevailed in the end. I loved the build up of Emery and Maddox’s relationship. Their romance escalated at such a natural pace as they began their relationship from just fiends to more, finding so much comfort in each other’s presence. Both have tainted pasts when it comes to relationships, so it was beautiful to see them take the time to get to know one another on such a deep level so they could better support and care for the other. Emery has so much love for Maddox - she feels valued, seen and most importantly safe with him. Maddox is fiercely protective of Emery - he has fallen and fallen hard; he will do anything to protect and support her.
I loved the addition to the plot that the notorious Seven brought to this book. Seeing Emery fight for justice and bring to light the wrongdoings of the Seven in Stone Bay was a welcome incorporation to the myth of this group that we have learned so much about in this series! Maddox supporting her and her cause was swoonworthy! The things he did to aide and encourage her on this search were incredibly thoughtful.
Persephone did such an incredible job representing domestic issues, past trauma, and self doubt in regard to the effect that plays on new relationships. This story is an incredible read regarding self-discovery, second chances, and surrounding yourself with people who support you for who you truly are.
Thank you so much to the Author Agency and Persephone Autumn for the early copy to review! This book is filled with deep emotions, suspense for days, and characters you can really relate to! It is an amazing age gap romantic suspense that embodies hope, love & trust.
March 20, 2025
✨🔮🌞🌕🍄🌕🌞🔮✨
ARC REVIEW
Raptured Souls - Persephone Autumn
4.5/5⭐️
📚📚📚
Wow this one totally made me feel so many emotions while reading!! The way this one started mouth dropped seriously! Emery is very to herself and keeps others not to close after being heartbroken so early on. After trying to move on he meets the man your mom would be scared of you being with. My heart broke for her in that moment. Maddox I’m obsessed with! He rolls into town as a newbie with the broody grump vibes. He just has a past of love and loss too. These two when they spend time together going through his house, the tension is just to good! But when going through his new place they find so many secrets and lies that were buried in this town! Let’s just say not everyone will enjoy their secrets being revealed. The love these two find for each other during this time will have your heart melting. I had the biggest smile for Emery and Maddox by the end. Overall totally recommend!
📚📚📚
If you like to read:
- New to town
- He falls first
- Interracial
- 12 year age gap
- Broody hero
- Furry companion
- Recluse
- Touch her and you 💀💀
- Hurt x comfort
- Illegitimate son
- Unearthing town secrets
- Dismantling the seven
- He calls her little rebel
… You should definitely check this out
📚📚📚
Thank you so much for sending me a copy for an honest review in my own words. #giftedcopy
✨have you ever been the new to town person?
#books #booklover #smut #booknerd #bookfriend #bookish #booklovers #bookishcommunity #bookloversunite #instabook #bookporn #bookphotography #reviews #igbooks #ilovereading #smutty #bookaddiction #bookhoader #hotnsexy #fortheloveofbooks #bookrecs #yummy #givemeallthebooks #readingthepainaway #booktok #arc
ARC REVIEW
Raptured Souls - Persephone Autumn
4.5/5⭐️
📚📚📚
Wow this one totally made me feel so many emotions while reading!! The way this one started mouth dropped seriously! Emery is very to herself and keeps others not to close after being heartbroken so early on. After trying to move on he meets the man your mom would be scared of you being with. My heart broke for her in that moment. Maddox I’m obsessed with! He rolls into town as a newbie with the broody grump vibes. He just has a past of love and loss too. These two when they spend time together going through his house, the tension is just to good! But when going through his new place they find so many secrets and lies that were buried in this town! Let’s just say not everyone will enjoy their secrets being revealed. The love these two find for each other during this time will have your heart melting. I had the biggest smile for Emery and Maddox by the end. Overall totally recommend!
📚📚📚
If you like to read:
- New to town
- He falls first
- Interracial
- 12 year age gap
- Broody hero
- Furry companion
- Recluse
- Touch her and you 💀💀
- Hurt x comfort
- Illegitimate son
- Unearthing town secrets
- Dismantling the seven
- He calls her little rebel
… You should definitely check this out
📚📚📚
Thank you so much for sending me a copy for an honest review in my own words. #giftedcopy
✨have you ever been the new to town person?
#books #booklover #smut #booknerd #bookfriend #bookish #booklovers #bookishcommunity #bookloversunite #instabook #bookporn #bookphotography #reviews #igbooks #ilovereading #smutty #bookaddiction #bookhoader #hotnsexy #fortheloveofbooks #bookrecs #yummy #givemeallthebooks #readingthepainaway #booktok #arc
March 23, 2025
4.25 Stars
This is the fifth book in the Stone Bay series and the second that I’ve had the opportunity to read. These stories are the kind that the characters have gone through some things before they find their happiness. The characters in this book will absolutely break your heart because life has been anything but simple for them. I swear every time I read a prologue for a book in this series, I can’t help but feel so much for the character in it. Honestly, I was holding my breath while I was reading the prologue. This was a great romance book with hurt, love, diversity, and even some suspense. These characters were ones that you can connect with through their pain and the journey they are on to be happy. These books are standalones, so you can read this without having read the prior books, but I would suggest picking up earlier books. They all give another view of this community, and the drama involved in this town.
Emery really pulled at my heart. In my life, I deal with a lot of domestic victims, so I know that what she went through with Luke shows her amazing strength. From the very beginning, she is shown fighting. And if what she went through with Luke wasn’t enough, she was and is still dealing with the trauma that she dealt with with Blake, the love of her life. When she meets Maddox, her life is thrown for a loop and she has so much emotion that she needs to deal with. She can immediately feel the attraction, but life is never that simple. Maddox has his own demons that he wrestles with. He feels no connection to the town he is in. He didn’t know his biological father until after he died and until he meets Emery, wants to leave as soon as he can. These two have such a great chemistry and they are not only attracted to each other, but are also friends and don’t want to lose that connection.
This series has such strong characters and enjoyable plot lines. This book fits right along with that. The connection between these characters is so strong and they spice between them is amazingly hot. The author does such a great job of writing these enjoyable stories with characters that are diverse and strong connections to each other. This was a great next book in this series that has been enjoyable to read.
This is the fifth book in the Stone Bay series and the second that I’ve had the opportunity to read. These stories are the kind that the characters have gone through some things before they find their happiness. The characters in this book will absolutely break your heart because life has been anything but simple for them. I swear every time I read a prologue for a book in this series, I can’t help but feel so much for the character in it. Honestly, I was holding my breath while I was reading the prologue. This was a great romance book with hurt, love, diversity, and even some suspense. These characters were ones that you can connect with through their pain and the journey they are on to be happy. These books are standalones, so you can read this without having read the prior books, but I would suggest picking up earlier books. They all give another view of this community, and the drama involved in this town.
Emery really pulled at my heart. In my life, I deal with a lot of domestic victims, so I know that what she went through with Luke shows her amazing strength. From the very beginning, she is shown fighting. And if what she went through with Luke wasn’t enough, she was and is still dealing with the trauma that she dealt with with Blake, the love of her life. When she meets Maddox, her life is thrown for a loop and she has so much emotion that she needs to deal with. She can immediately feel the attraction, but life is never that simple. Maddox has his own demons that he wrestles with. He feels no connection to the town he is in. He didn’t know his biological father until after he died and until he meets Emery, wants to leave as soon as he can. These two have such a great chemistry and they are not only attracted to each other, but are also friends and don’t want to lose that connection.
This series has such strong characters and enjoyable plot lines. This book fits right along with that. The connection between these characters is so strong and they spice between them is amazingly hot. The author does such a great job of writing these enjoyable stories with characters that are diverse and strong connections to each other. This was a great next book in this series that has been enjoyable to read.
March 29, 2025
Raptured Souls is book five in the Stone Bay Series by Persephone Autumn. It continues the stories about the residents and the seven founding families of Stone Bay. In the previous books the author has left hints and teasers ready for the all the hidden truths and revelations that are exposed in this instalment. It is an interracial, age gap romance between Emery Barron and Maddox Freeman. Like the previous books, the romance is only part of the story so expect angst and intrigue, secrets and lies, deceit and threats, mystery and suspense and plenty of town drama and gossip.
“As long as there is breath in my lungs and a heart beating in my chest, I will love you. I will fight for you. I will protect you.”
The story starts with the two incidents from Emery’s past which have had a big impact on her life. They explain her issues and insecurities especially with relationships and love. She is one of the founding families and works for her father’s law firm.
Due to a letter from Barron Law, Maddox has just found out this Leonard Freeman is his birth father is and he has inherited his house and land. He is upset, confused and angry at his mother’s revelations so he leaves Fox River with his dog Bandit to explore his options in Stone Bay. He has with no idea if he will keep the house or sell it, but everything changes for him the moment he meets Emery.
They have an instantaneous and undeniable attraction even though he is broody and she’s hesitant at first. He becomes obsessed with her and slowly they become friends. The incessant gossip and stares when he’s in town are unsettling but Emery encourages him to continue working but it becomes obvious someone isn’t happy and is trying to get him to leave. They both take their time as they need to heal from previous relationships and this leads to her finding the hidden secrets about Leo’s life and the Seven. When problems arise for other people in town, Emery decides it’s time the truth is made known. Great seeing the previous characters getting involved and supporting Emery as they all come together to right the wrongs of the past.
Maddox is so patient and works hard at winning her trust and making her feel safe. Can he survive all the drama and torment, have a normal life with Emery or will he have to leave ? If he has to settle somewhere else would she go with him? As their romance develops can this couple heal each other so they can love again and fulfil their hopes and dreams.
“As long as there is breath in my lungs and a heart beating in my chest, I will love you. I will fight for you. I will protect you.”
The story starts with the two incidents from Emery’s past which have had a big impact on her life. They explain her issues and insecurities especially with relationships and love. She is one of the founding families and works for her father’s law firm.
Due to a letter from Barron Law, Maddox has just found out this Leonard Freeman is his birth father is and he has inherited his house and land. He is upset, confused and angry at his mother’s revelations so he leaves Fox River with his dog Bandit to explore his options in Stone Bay. He has with no idea if he will keep the house or sell it, but everything changes for him the moment he meets Emery.
They have an instantaneous and undeniable attraction even though he is broody and she’s hesitant at first. He becomes obsessed with her and slowly they become friends. The incessant gossip and stares when he’s in town are unsettling but Emery encourages him to continue working but it becomes obvious someone isn’t happy and is trying to get him to leave. They both take their time as they need to heal from previous relationships and this leads to her finding the hidden secrets about Leo’s life and the Seven. When problems arise for other people in town, Emery decides it’s time the truth is made known. Great seeing the previous characters getting involved and supporting Emery as they all come together to right the wrongs of the past.
Maddox is so patient and works hard at winning her trust and making her feel safe. Can he survive all the drama and torment, have a normal life with Emery or will he have to leave ? If he has to settle somewhere else would she go with him? As their romance develops can this couple heal each other so they can love again and fulfil their hopes and dreams.
March 20, 2025
When Maddox learns the identity of his biological father he ends up in the town of Stone Bay at the property he inherited from him. His plan is to refurb the house, sell it and leave Stone Bay behind. Until he meets Emery. After one meeting he starts to rethink his plans to leave. They start to work together to get the house cleared out but Emery makes some discoveries that could change the entire town and its history. It soon becomes clear that some people want to keep the story under wraps and will stop at nothing to keep the truth hidden. Can Emery and Maddox survive or will they lose their lives before they get their happily ever after?
Ok so I went in to this book relatively blind having not read any of the previous books in the series but I didn’t feel like I was missing any vital information. This is another book that kept me hooked. The mystery and the sense of danger really balanced out the romance and kept me truly gripped. I’m dying to go back and read the other books in the series for everyone else’s stories!
This is an ARC review and all opinions are my own. Thank you to The Author Agency for the ARC copy of this book and for the opportunity to read and review it
Ok so I went in to this book relatively blind having not read any of the previous books in the series but I didn’t feel like I was missing any vital information. This is another book that kept me hooked. The mystery and the sense of danger really balanced out the romance and kept me truly gripped. I’m dying to go back and read the other books in the series for everyone else’s stories!
This is an ARC review and all opinions are my own. Thank you to The Author Agency for the ARC copy of this book and for the opportunity to read and review it
March 13, 2025
Emery is a lawyer in a small town who has had her heartbroken when her first love died tragically early.
She tried moving on but just when she thought her new man was a dream come true he turned into her biggest nightmare.
Since then she’s closed herself off to the idea of love again.
But then he rolls into town.
Maddox is broody and closed off after his own past traumas with love and loss.
Moving into a new town where everyone seems to hate and not trust him before they even talk to him doesn’t help his grumpy nature.
When Emery offers to help Maddox renovate the house he inherited, it’s impossible to deny their chemistry.
But as they go through the old boxes in the home they uncover massive secrets that will change the town of Stone Bay forever.
As they unearth and expose more secrets, Emery and Maddox have fight to stay alive because there are a few ghosts from the past that want to make sure their secrets stay buried.
Raptured Hearts by Persephone Autumn was great!
The drama from the town secrets was gripping, the tension between the FMC and MMC at the beginning was palpable and addictive!
While some of the plot was predictable in my opinion I still really enjoyed watching it all unfold!
Maddox was such a rock for Emery while everything was going down and I loved how he never wavered in his love and care for her well being!
I also loved seeing the love that Emery accepted and poured into Maddox, he deserves the world and I’m happy Emery wants to give him that 💖
Just a fantastic read that I ate up from the start!
If you love broody hero’s, age gap romance, touch her & ☠️ with a little unearthing of town secrets I Would definitely recommend reading this one 📖
*I want to thank Persephone and her team for giving me the honor of being an ARC reader for this book*
She tried moving on but just when she thought her new man was a dream come true he turned into her biggest nightmare.
Since then she’s closed herself off to the idea of love again.
But then he rolls into town.
Maddox is broody and closed off after his own past traumas with love and loss.
Moving into a new town where everyone seems to hate and not trust him before they even talk to him doesn’t help his grumpy nature.
When Emery offers to help Maddox renovate the house he inherited, it’s impossible to deny their chemistry.
But as they go through the old boxes in the home they uncover massive secrets that will change the town of Stone Bay forever.
As they unearth and expose more secrets, Emery and Maddox have fight to stay alive because there are a few ghosts from the past that want to make sure their secrets stay buried.
Raptured Hearts by Persephone Autumn was great!
The drama from the town secrets was gripping, the tension between the FMC and MMC at the beginning was palpable and addictive!
While some of the plot was predictable in my opinion I still really enjoyed watching it all unfold!
Maddox was such a rock for Emery while everything was going down and I loved how he never wavered in his love and care for her well being!
I also loved seeing the love that Emery accepted and poured into Maddox, he deserves the world and I’m happy Emery wants to give him that 💖
Just a fantastic read that I ate up from the start!
If you love broody hero’s, age gap romance, touch her & ☠️ with a little unearthing of town secrets I Would definitely recommend reading this one 📖
*I want to thank Persephone and her team for giving me the honor of being an ARC reader for this book*
March 21, 2025
This is book 5 in the Stone Bay series and the first book I’ve read by this author. And I am so glad I did! I devoured it!
Emery is a lawyer in a small town and hasn’t had the best luck with love, her first love died tragically and after moving on from the loss the next ended up being a nightmare. Maddox is a grumpy soul and has his own trauma from a past relationship.
Life as they both know it changes after meeting when Maddox comes to Stone Bay after inheriting his biological father’s house that he just learned about. His plans were to renovate, sell and move on. That’s until he meets Emery. While they are working together in renovations they discover secrets about the town that could put them in danger.
I loved the chemistry between the two, how they took things slow and how their romance blossomed. I enjoyed the author’s writing style, how she made me feel connected to the characters as well as feel their emotions. Then throw in the suspense that kept me clutching my kindle not wanting to put it down. Overall a read you don’t want to miss. Two thumbs up for sure!
Emery is a lawyer in a small town and hasn’t had the best luck with love, her first love died tragically and after moving on from the loss the next ended up being a nightmare. Maddox is a grumpy soul and has his own trauma from a past relationship.
Life as they both know it changes after meeting when Maddox comes to Stone Bay after inheriting his biological father’s house that he just learned about. His plans were to renovate, sell and move on. That’s until he meets Emery. While they are working together in renovations they discover secrets about the town that could put them in danger.
I loved the chemistry between the two, how they took things slow and how their romance blossomed. I enjoyed the author’s writing style, how she made me feel connected to the characters as well as feel their emotions. Then throw in the suspense that kept me clutching my kindle not wanting to put it down. Overall a read you don’t want to miss. Two thumbs up for sure!
March 20, 2025
Emery- bless her heart, she went through it! Then Maddox came into her life, and boy, did he turn it upside down.
Maddox- One look at Emery and he knew she was his but his past relationship left him a little jaded
Then!!!! The fires, the secrets, the ex who was released from prison—— oh my goodness!
I loved how Ember’s friends showed up for her then gently welcomed Maddox into their fold. I do hope Tymber gets his HEA.
This book did leave me with a lot of unanswered questions and a little cofusion. I almosted DNFed but I am so glad I didn’t! Overall, it was good and surprising at what was found in the basement.
Maddox- One look at Emery and he knew she was his but his past relationship left him a little jaded
Then!!!! The fires, the secrets, the ex who was released from prison—— oh my goodness!
I loved how Ember’s friends showed up for her then gently welcomed Maddox into their fold. I do hope Tymber gets his HEA.
This book did leave me with a lot of unanswered questions and a little cofusion. I almosted DNFed but I am so glad I didn’t! Overall, it was good and surprising at what was found in the basement.
March 21, 2025
This is boring & repetitive to me but if you like a low angst, minimal romance book then maybe this cup of tea is for you. Halfway into the book & these folks haven’t even had a HUG yet. like?? I love a slow burn but theres not even any good banter or cute moments between the characters to tide you over.
Then shes got all these descriptive words for nonsensical stuff. It does not make the book any better I promise you. And by nonsensical stuff I mean, describing how this man is making dinner every other freaking chapter. It does nothing to move the plot further, so how about let’s keep it in the drafts.
Then shes got all these descriptive words for nonsensical stuff. It does not make the book any better I promise you. And by nonsensical stuff I mean, describing how this man is making dinner every other freaking chapter. It does nothing to move the plot further, so how about let’s keep it in the drafts.
March 18, 2025
4.5 ⭐
Emery is a lawyer in small town, Stone Bay, who’s had her heart broken after her first love died young. She tried moving on and when she thought she did, the man she thought she knew turned out to be her biggest nightmare. She’s closed herself off to the idea of falling in love again, until him.
Maddox is new to town where everyone seems to know who he is and immediately hates him because of the house and land he inherited from his biological dad, a recluse and a hermit.
When Emery offers to help Maddox go through the belongings, he accepts, unable to deny their strong attraction for one another.
As they go through the old boxes, they uncover massive town secrets that will change Stone Bay forever. But as more and more secrets are exposed, Emery and Maddox’s lives become in danger as their pasts begin to haunt them.
Raptured Souls isn’t just about revealing massive town secrets that Emery discovered, it’s about healing, finding the light in your darkest moments, finding someone who truly loves you, supports you and protects and comforts you. Maddox worships Emery and I enjoyed their relationship from start to finish.
This book will keep you sitting on the edge of your seat with the suspense and mystery. There’s a sizzling chemistry between the characters, its emotional and had the right amount of spice!
Emery is a lawyer in small town, Stone Bay, who’s had her heart broken after her first love died young. She tried moving on and when she thought she did, the man she thought she knew turned out to be her biggest nightmare. She’s closed herself off to the idea of falling in love again, until him.
Maddox is new to town where everyone seems to know who he is and immediately hates him because of the house and land he inherited from his biological dad, a recluse and a hermit.
When Emery offers to help Maddox go through the belongings, he accepts, unable to deny their strong attraction for one another.
As they go through the old boxes, they uncover massive town secrets that will change Stone Bay forever. But as more and more secrets are exposed, Emery and Maddox’s lives become in danger as their pasts begin to haunt them.
Raptured Souls isn’t just about revealing massive town secrets that Emery discovered, it’s about healing, finding the light in your darkest moments, finding someone who truly loves you, supports you and protects and comforts you. Maddox worships Emery and I enjoyed their relationship from start to finish.
This book will keep you sitting on the edge of your seat with the suspense and mystery. There’s a sizzling chemistry between the characters, its emotional and had the right amount of spice!
March 18, 2025
Such a beautiful and captivating story by Persephone Autumn. Lots of secrets to be revealed for our main characters Maddox and Emery especially when Maddox moves to Stone Bay to inherit his deceased father’s house. Everything that Maddox and Emery discovered about the past links them to the Seven founders of the town and when Emery gets a little too close to finding the truth there is some drama but also for Maddox when people are trying to get him to leave his inheritance and move away. I loved the angst and intrigue and the beautiful love that started between Maddox and Emery especially after they both that to deal with their own pasts. I have been a long time fan of Persephone Autumn and I absolutely enjoyed this book that I could lose myself in.
March 13, 2025
Wow!!! Secrets, lies, deceit and crime…oh my!! This book kept me on the edge of my seat.
Maddox learned the identity of his biological father and goes to Stone Bay to claim his inheritance. He meets Emery, the attorney who is handling his father’s affairs and he feels an instant connection to her. Maddox plans to repair the home to sell it but his plans change when he gets to know Emmy. Gosh, the pull between this couple was strong and palpable. As Maddox and Emmy get to know each other, they are dealing with town and family secrets, a disgruntled ex and personal roadblocks. I was absolutely intrigued with everything that was transpiring in this story.
I loved this book so much!! It was a beautiful romantic suspense novel.
Maddox learned the identity of his biological father and goes to Stone Bay to claim his inheritance. He meets Emery, the attorney who is handling his father’s affairs and he feels an instant connection to her. Maddox plans to repair the home to sell it but his plans change when he gets to know Emmy. Gosh, the pull between this couple was strong and palpable. As Maddox and Emmy get to know each other, they are dealing with town and family secrets, a disgruntled ex and personal roadblocks. I was absolutely intrigued with everything that was transpiring in this story.
I loved this book so much!! It was a beautiful romantic suspense novel.
March 23, 2025
I really enjoyed this book . From the first chapter I was instantly hooked to Maddox & Emery’s story. I loved the slow pace and how their relationship built , even though they both felt the instant connection and attraction between them. They started off being friends then it grew from there.
The way Maddox loved & went into full on protective mode for Emery was so swoon . I really got into both their characters and didn’t want their story to end. Their steamy scenes were also hot & loads of sweet moments.
An MMC who cooks for the FMC with care and attention is automatically added to my top tier ranking.
There is a lot of mystery and suspense that kept me on the edge and kept me turning the pages just to see what happens next , I didn’t relax till the very end as it was so intense, as everything started to unravel
Can’t wait for the next book in this series.
The way Maddox loved & went into full on protective mode for Emery was so swoon . I really got into both their characters and didn’t want their story to end. Their steamy scenes were also hot & loads of sweet moments.
An MMC who cooks for the FMC with care and attention is automatically added to my top tier ranking.
There is a lot of mystery and suspense that kept me on the edge and kept me turning the pages just to see what happens next , I didn’t relax till the very end as it was so intense, as everything started to unravel
Can’t wait for the next book in this series.
March 20, 2025
This was such an emotional book to read. I thoroughly enjoyed the history of the town and how in depth it really went. I loved the history of our FMC and how she went through so much and came and accomplished and accepted our MMC when he came into the picture. I enjoyed all the memories, action, history, romance portrayed in this book
March 19, 2025
4⭐️ | 2🌶️
ARC REVIEW
(open door scenes, explicit sexual language, intimate touches, acts of violence)
Ok picture this… A small town, run by the notorious 7 families. It’s littered with secrets, cover ups and they don’t like outsiders in their city.
Cue our grumpy rugged handy man who flips their town upside down. Gossiping grannies left and right trying to unearth the new resident. Maddox Freeman 😮💨. Our reclusive MMC doesn’t want anything to do with the bullsh—t the town is throwing him. But when his life gets entangled with his lawyer, Emery (FMC) all bets are off. She is one of the founding families but has questioned reign from the beginning. What she doesn’t have to question is the yearning building for a certain new resident.
Tension. Suspense. Angst. Touch her and burn. 🔥
It’s giving everything you need and when the tension finally boils over. Whew baby the spark erupts. What where does that leave our characters and the town??
Tropes:
New to town
He falls first
Interracial
Touch her & ☠️
Hurt/comfort
Unearthing town secrets
Dismantling the Seven
He calls her little rebel
Are we adding to the boutique besties? YES 🤭🫶🏽
ARC REVIEW
(open door scenes, explicit sexual language, intimate touches, acts of violence)
Ok picture this… A small town, run by the notorious 7 families. It’s littered with secrets, cover ups and they don’t like outsiders in their city.
Cue our grumpy rugged handy man who flips their town upside down. Gossiping grannies left and right trying to unearth the new resident. Maddox Freeman 😮💨. Our reclusive MMC doesn’t want anything to do with the bullsh—t the town is throwing him. But when his life gets entangled with his lawyer, Emery (FMC) all bets are off. She is one of the founding families but has questioned reign from the beginning. What she doesn’t have to question is the yearning building for a certain new resident.
Tension. Suspense. Angst. Touch her and burn. 🔥
It’s giving everything you need and when the tension finally boils over. Whew baby the spark erupts. What where does that leave our characters and the town??
Tropes:
New to town
He falls first
Interracial
Touch her & ☠️
Hurt/comfort
Unearthing town secrets
Dismantling the Seven
He calls her little rebel
Are we adding to the boutique besties? YES 🤭🫶🏽
March 14, 2025
Wanted to love this book so much and feel like it had the potential to be a really great story but the sheer amount of detail in every single paragraph was overwhelming. There was a whole paragraph detailing her just coming in the door. There was also a lot of repetition. Another fire, another fish meal being cooked.
The plot was amazing which is why I’ve given 3 stars but I feel like it was stuffed full of details that wasn’t really required to make the book longer.
Both the MMC and FMC were great characters and the chemistry was electric and loved Bandit the dog. Never did find out where she was getting all those stuffed toys?
The plot was amazing which is why I’ve given 3 stars but I feel like it was stuffed full of details that wasn’t really required to make the book longer.
Both the MMC and FMC were great characters and the chemistry was electric and loved Bandit the dog. Never did find out where she was getting all those stuffed toys?
March 21, 2025
I enjoyed this 5 star story that kept me intrigued throughout. A page turner at its best.
Emery escaped an attack from her boyfriend. She also comes from a small town full of secrets. A town founded by a set of families. As a lawyer, she will reach out to the soul heir to one of the towns resident. Maddox’s life was based on a lie that he just discovered. While fixing the house he inherited, a series of attacks are happening on him and Emery as they grow closer.
This was an entertaining and suspenseful story. It kept me intrigued until the very end. There was never a dull moment. I was hooked from the beginning to the end. Great characters that were perfectly created for this story. Bottomline this is a must read.
Although this is part of a series, it can safely be read as a standalone. Told in a dual POV with an HEA. I highly recommend this story.
Emery escaped an attack from her boyfriend. She also comes from a small town full of secrets. A town founded by a set of families. As a lawyer, she will reach out to the soul heir to one of the towns resident. Maddox’s life was based on a lie that he just discovered. While fixing the house he inherited, a series of attacks are happening on him and Emery as they grow closer.
This was an entertaining and suspenseful story. It kept me intrigued until the very end. There was never a dull moment. I was hooked from the beginning to the end. Great characters that were perfectly created for this story. Bottomline this is a must read.
Although this is part of a series, it can safely be read as a standalone. Told in a dual POV with an HEA. I highly recommend this story.
March 11, 2025
This book was pretty good. I'm always down for a binge-able romantic suspense. This one definitely has a lot more secrecy and suspense than Stolen Dreams (the previous book). I was initially thinking that I wasn't going to like this book because I thought it would be a Insta-love kind of thing-which is not my favourite trope. But, ultimately, the pacing of the story was really good.
The chemistry between was really good too. It was more on the friends to lovers kind of arc. Like there wasn't a lot of tension between the characters since they were on the same wavelength most of the time, but it wasn't too bland either, if you get what I'm saying.
I really should get around to reading the previous books in the series.
The chemistry between was really good too. It was more on the friends to lovers kind of arc. Like there wasn't a lot of tension between the characters since they were on the same wavelength most of the time, but it wasn't too bland either, if you get what I'm saying.
I really should get around to reading the previous books in the series.
March 24, 2025
Good read.
March 22, 2025
Amazon
Maddox has come to Stone Bay to claim an inheritance from the father he never knew existed. Not only is the house he's inherited in less than pristine shape, but the whole town whispers every time they see him. If he hadn't met Emery, he might consider leaving and saying to hell with this ridiculous place. But there's something that draws him to her, and now he's falling for someone who's afraid to love.
The first time Emery (Emmy) saw Maddox, it gave her the chills. Why does her first love come to mind the first time she sees Maddox? And why is she falling for him, even though she's trying not to? The last time she loved someone, she lost him. She's not about to have her heart broken again, but she might not have a choice...
"But she was my beacon in a dark moment. A shining light I couldn't look away from even if I wanted to."
Two characters not looking for, or wanting, love like Emmy & Maddox, find healing with each other, and I loved every page of their slow burn, suspenseful love story. I hurt for both of them for all the pain and loss they had suffered, and I was on the edge of my seat as each secret of their small town was revealed. It's been great being back in Stone Bay, and can't wait for the final two stories now.
ARC provided by The Author Agency for an honest review.
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March 20, 2025Raptured Souls is LIVE & available to read in Kindle Unlimited!
throws all the indigo confetti
Raptured Souls is out in the world, and I am so freaking excited! When I plotted the series, I knew Emery's story would be last (originally slated to be the last, but never fear, two more books are coming). Why? Because she is a defender of justice and voice for others. And when she enlists others for help, they eagerly step up and stand at her side.
When it comes to the love story... Emery and Maddox have both been hurt in the past, and I loved the way they become pillars of strength and courage for each other. Their love builds slowly, but when it hits... it is everything! And let's not forget all the small moments and touches that lead up to that love 🥹
Emery revives me in a way no one has, like a lightning strike to the heart. Like the first breath after years of a mediocre existence. She is the sun and stars, radiance and hope, magnificence and something so much deeper.
If you love slow burn romance with all the feels plus mystery and suspense, Maddox and Emery deliver all of the above and more. It was an incredible experience to bring their story to life on the page, and I hope you love it as much as I do!
"You're the reason I stay. Why I want to keep trying. Why I want to put down roots in this town. You, Emmy."
Need more convincing to read Raptured Souls?
Check out the tropes! I'm sure there are some micro-tropes missing, though.
🏡 New to town
💘 He falls first
👩🏽❤️👨🏻 Interracial
👀 12-year age gap
🙎🏻♂️ Broody hero
🐾 Furry companion
🤐 Recluse
💪🏻 Touch her & ☠️
❤️🩹 Hurt/comfort
⏳ Slow burn
🫢 Illegitimate son
📦 Unearthing town secrets
📰 Dismantling the Seven
😏 He calls her little rebel
If keeping the person I love safe makes me stubborn, I will wear the badge with honor.
Download Raptured Souls in Kindle Unlimited or order your favorite print edition now!
Ebook in KU: https://mybook.to/RapturedSouls
Model PB on Amazon: https://mybook.to/RS_CPB
SE Alt PB on Amazon: https://mybook.to/RS_APB
SE Alt HC on Amazon: https://mybook.to/RS_AHC
Paperback & Hardcover on other retailers: https://books2read.com/RapturedSouls
throws all the indigo confetti
Raptured Souls is out in the world, and I am so freaking excited! When I plotted the series, I knew Emery's story would be last (originally slated to be the last, but never fear, two more books are coming). Why? Because she is a defender of justice and voice for others. And when she enlists others for help, they eagerly step up and stand at her side.
When it comes to the love story... Emery and Maddox have both been hurt in the past, and I loved the way they become pillars of strength and courage for each other. Their love builds slowly, but when it hits... it is everything! And let's not forget all the small moments and touches that lead up to that love 🥹
Emery revives me in a way no one has, like a lightning strike to the heart. Like the first breath after years of a mediocre existence. She is the sun and stars, radiance and hope, magnificence and something so much deeper.
If you love slow burn romance with all the feels plus mystery and suspense, Maddox and Emery deliver all of the above and more. It was an incredible experience to bring their story to life on the page, and I hope you love it as much as I do!
"You're the reason I stay. Why I want to keep trying. Why I want to put down roots in this town. You, Emmy."
Need more convincing to read Raptured Souls?
Check out the tropes! I'm sure there are some micro-tropes missing, though.
🏡 New to town
💘 He falls first
👩🏽❤️👨🏻 Interracial
👀 12-year age gap
🙎🏻♂️ Broody hero
🐾 Furry companion
🤐 Recluse
💪🏻 Touch her & ☠️
❤️🩹 Hurt/comfort
⏳ Slow burn
🫢 Illegitimate son
📦 Unearthing town secrets
📰 Dismantling the Seven
😏 He calls her little rebel
If keeping the person I love safe makes me stubborn, I will wear the badge with honor.
Download Raptured Souls in Kindle Unlimited or order your favorite print edition now!
Ebook in KU: https://mybook.to/RapturedSouls
Model PB on Amazon: https://mybook.to/RS_CPB
SE Alt PB on Amazon: https://mybook.to/RS_APB
SE Alt HC on Amazon: https://mybook.to/RS_AHC
Paperback & Hardcover on other retailers: https://books2read.com/RapturedSouls
March 31, 2025
This is book 5 in the Stone Bay series. This is a new author for me and I have not read any of the other books in the series. I did not feel like I needed to read the other books in this series. The author does a great job with providing any background information you need to understand the dynamics happening in the story.
The book finds our FMC Emery Barron 18 months earlier and her boyfriend Luke Dobson is chasing her through her house trying to cause harm to her all because she looked at another man at a restaurant. She barely gets hidden and calls the police and they arrive just in time because Luke is trying to kick in the door to her closet where she is hiding.
Eighteen months later, Maddox is pulling into Stone Bay to accept the house and money that his biological father left him after his death. He never knew about his biological dad until the letter from the attorney’s office showed up. He had to confront his mother about the truth of her past. Because of this conversation, Maddox is showing up in Stone Bay very hurt and not sure what he wants to do with all of these ghosts from his past.
As he meets with the attorney, Emery Barron, he comes to realize that he may want to stay in Stone Bay for awhile to fix up the house and potentially sell the house. Emery has peaked is interest and he would really like to get to know her and maybe more about the nosey town he is living in.
Emery is anxious in meeting Maddox but she sees past his grumpiness and offers to help him clean up the house and get it ready for whatever may come next. She also helps Maddox navigate the small town and the gossip mill that seems to follow Maddox wherever he goes.
Emery makes a startling discovery as she is cleaning up boxes of papers and photos from the office at the house. What she thought was further documentation of the founding families of the town of Stone Bay is actually telling a very different story than what everyone else in town knows.
The book has a lot of things going on with it – it has romance, it has small town feel, it has suspense and it has lots of drama going on. It is very different from my normal list of tropes that I read and I am really glad I took a chance on a new to me author and a new list of tropes.
Enjoy reading - Peace ☮️ and Love ❤️ my friends!!
The book finds our FMC Emery Barron 18 months earlier and her boyfriend Luke Dobson is chasing her through her house trying to cause harm to her all because she looked at another man at a restaurant. She barely gets hidden and calls the police and they arrive just in time because Luke is trying to kick in the door to her closet where she is hiding.
Eighteen months later, Maddox is pulling into Stone Bay to accept the house and money that his biological father left him after his death. He never knew about his biological dad until the letter from the attorney’s office showed up. He had to confront his mother about the truth of her past. Because of this conversation, Maddox is showing up in Stone Bay very hurt and not sure what he wants to do with all of these ghosts from his past.
As he meets with the attorney, Emery Barron, he comes to realize that he may want to stay in Stone Bay for awhile to fix up the house and potentially sell the house. Emery has peaked is interest and he would really like to get to know her and maybe more about the nosey town he is living in.
Emery is anxious in meeting Maddox but she sees past his grumpiness and offers to help him clean up the house and get it ready for whatever may come next. She also helps Maddox navigate the small town and the gossip mill that seems to follow Maddox wherever he goes.
Emery makes a startling discovery as she is cleaning up boxes of papers and photos from the office at the house. What she thought was further documentation of the founding families of the town of Stone Bay is actually telling a very different story than what everyone else in town knows.
The book has a lot of things going on with it – it has romance, it has small town feel, it has suspense and it has lots of drama going on. It is very different from my normal list of tropes that I read and I am really glad I took a chance on a new to me author and a new list of tropes.
Enjoy reading - Peace ☮️ and Love ❤️ my friends!!
March 11, 2025
Raptured Souls by Persephone Autumn is a captivating and heart-wrenching addition to the Stone Bay series. From the very first page, I was completely immersed in the raw, emotional, and undeniably passionate journey of love, loss, and healing. This book grabbed me by the heart and didn’t let go until the very last page.
The story follows Emery and Maddox, two people who are undeniably drawn to one another despite the heavy baggage they each carry. Their chemistry is off the charts, and the slow-burn romance had me turning pages late into the night. What I loved most about this book is how real and flawed the characters are — they aren’t perfect, but their love feels authentic, messy, and incredibly powerful.
Persephone Autumn has a gift for writing angst and heartbreak in a way that makes you feel every ounce of pain and every sliver of hope. I found myself tearing up at certain moments, laughing at others and sitting on the edge of my seat. The emotional roller coaster was full of highs and lows.
But it’s not just the romance that stands out — it’s the beautiful message of healing, forgiveness, and finding light after the darkest moments. Both main characters have pasts that haunt them, and watching them navigate through their pain to find solace in each other was truly breathtaking. Throw in some mystery and this book was a page turner.
The secrets Stone Bay holds also add a great backdrop to the story. You can’t help but want to explore, and find answers.
If you love emotionally intense, small-town romances with complex characters, sizzling chemistry, and a story that will keep you turning the page, Raptured Souls is an absolute must-read. Persephone Autumn once again delivered a story that will stay with me for a long time.
5/5 stars
The story follows Emery and Maddox, two people who are undeniably drawn to one another despite the heavy baggage they each carry. Their chemistry is off the charts, and the slow-burn romance had me turning pages late into the night. What I loved most about this book is how real and flawed the characters are — they aren’t perfect, but their love feels authentic, messy, and incredibly powerful.
Persephone Autumn has a gift for writing angst and heartbreak in a way that makes you feel every ounce of pain and every sliver of hope. I found myself tearing up at certain moments, laughing at others and sitting on the edge of my seat. The emotional roller coaster was full of highs and lows.
But it’s not just the romance that stands out — it’s the beautiful message of healing, forgiveness, and finding light after the darkest moments. Both main characters have pasts that haunt them, and watching them navigate through their pain to find solace in each other was truly breathtaking. Throw in some mystery and this book was a page turner.
The secrets Stone Bay holds also add a great backdrop to the story. You can’t help but want to explore, and find answers.
If you love emotionally intense, small-town romances with complex characters, sizzling chemistry, and a story that will keep you turning the page, Raptured Souls is an absolute must-read. Persephone Autumn once again delivered a story that will stay with me for a long time.
5/5 stars
March 23, 2025
This is the fifth book in the Stone Bay series. This is my first book in this series and by this author. This book is a slow burn. Now i felt a little lost about the Stone Bay Seven Founders. I’m not sure if the history was explained in previous books but it was hard at first to figure it out. This book features Emery and Maddox. Maddox’s father a man he never knew or heard about left his home to him. But, Maddox doesn’t find out about this until his late thirties. So he had no interaction or knowledge of his real dad and his mother basically lied to him his whole life. So when Maddox arrives his mission is to fix, renovate and sell the house. Emery’s family is part of that Seven and as a lawyer it was her job to assist Maddox with all paperwork. As they got to know each other there was a slight attraction but both had been in some pretty bad relationships and were not rushing to get involved. Emery’s assistance in the house leads to her discovering some information about the town and its founders. The romance is a slow and steady with the characters getting to know each other. Emery has problems with a stalker and the town has lots of secrets and mysteries. Interesting story and premise. I enjoyed the author’s writing style but I felt the pace of the story was just a little to slow.
March 26, 2025
Maddox Freeman has recently discovered who his father was after inheriting. Facing the fact that his mother has lied to him his entire life his is angry and bitter when he arrives in Stone Bay to claim the property and restore the old home. Emery Barron is a dependent of one of The Seven, the founders of Stone Bay, and she works as a local attorney. When Maddox comes to claim his property, he meets Emory and there is an immediate connection. Emery is still reeling from an abusive ex and is cautious despite her strong feelings for Maddox.
This is my second book by this author and I loved it just as much as the first one. I read this in one setting, I couldn’t put it down. Aside from the slow burn romance that finds Maddox and Emery both examining their strong feelings despite their complicated pasts, there is a really interesting storyline involving the history of the town. That sub-story brought so much more to the love story and was a huge part in what kept me turning the pages. If you read other books in the series you see other characters you will recognize.. Maddox’s grumpy demeanor and Emery’s determination really make this book a must read.
This is my second book by this author and I loved it just as much as the first one. I read this in one setting, I couldn’t put it down. Aside from the slow burn romance that finds Maddox and Emery both examining their strong feelings despite their complicated pasts, there is a really interesting storyline involving the history of the town. That sub-story brought so much more to the love story and was a huge part in what kept me turning the pages. If you read other books in the series you see other characters you will recognize.. Maddox’s grumpy demeanor and Emery’s determination really make this book a must read.
March 28, 2025
To a girl who has been wondering trying to find herself like the main character in this book i can relate on the whole giving up love mindset. This book goes on a journey of mental battles of self doubt but also trying to listen to what your heart wants. Persephone's writing is smooth and easy to read even the more spicier scenes in the book weren't awkward as some other books i have read in the past. The book is about heartbreak and going through a lot in a short time but also learning how to trust and to let those walls down again especially for a person who just recently came into your life but also learning how to trust yourself again. Its about not only feeling safe in your own skin again but also finding safety in another's arms even when you feel like you're constantly having to look over your shoulder. This book is a book id most definitely read again and im absolutely planning on too. If anyone needs a new read id highly recommend reading Raptured Souls by. Persephone Autumn. 4.5 stars- Montana
March 31, 2025
frustrating (contains spoilers)
The book had so much potential but felt short. The romance was well written although I’m still not sure what age Emery is, the rest of the book was too vague. We needed more details of exactly what the issue was and what happened. Why an old story would have the whole town up in arms? I also thought that the potential relationship or lack thereof between Leonard and Maddox was missing. We didn’t have a scene of him reading the letters for instance. Surely someone knew Leonard and could have given a glimpse of who he was. We don’t even know his age. The story on how Blake died was buried and felt incomplete. Basically, the book felt superficial. The diversity was also written poorly. Emery is supposed to be dark brown but she turns red when embarrassed? Also the idea that in 1806 a black family (Emery’s) would be invited to built a new town sounds fanciful, if they became diverse afterwards, it should have been explored. Much more interesting that this Luke arc. I also didn’t like that Emery was such a “wuss”.
The book had so much potential but felt short. The romance was well written although I’m still not sure what age Emery is, the rest of the book was too vague. We needed more details of exactly what the issue was and what happened. Why an old story would have the whole town up in arms? I also thought that the potential relationship or lack thereof between Leonard and Maddox was missing. We didn’t have a scene of him reading the letters for instance. Surely someone knew Leonard and could have given a glimpse of who he was. We don’t even know his age. The story on how Blake died was buried and felt incomplete. Basically, the book felt superficial. The diversity was also written poorly. Emery is supposed to be dark brown but she turns red when embarrassed? Also the idea that in 1806 a black family (Emery’s) would be invited to built a new town sounds fanciful, if they became diverse afterwards, it should have been explored. Much more interesting that this Luke arc. I also didn’t like that Emery was such a “wuss”.
March 13, 2025
Rating: 4 stars
When two wounded souls find each other. In this small town romance we get a love story between reluctant town's nobility FMC and a newcomer recluse that was less then warmly welcomed in Stone Bay. Add to that a healthy amount of suspense and secrets and you get a truly captivating story.
Although a part of it is connected to the Stone Bay's Seven, so if you haven't read other books in the series, you might need a minute to get the gist of the concept.
I am looking forward to the next book in the series and I have my suspicions as to the main characters.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
When two wounded souls find each other. In this small town romance we get a love story between reluctant town's nobility FMC and a newcomer recluse that was less then warmly welcomed in Stone Bay. Add to that a healthy amount of suspense and secrets and you get a truly captivating story.
Although a part of it is connected to the Stone Bay's Seven, so if you haven't read other books in the series, you might need a minute to get the gist of the concept.
I am looking forward to the next book in the series and I have my suspicions as to the main characters.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
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