Elevator Ride

Valkyrie Brothers #1

by Bethany Maines

Twenty-six floors. Two professionals. Sometimes love only needs one Elevator Ride…

Vivian Kaye has been tasked with serving a cease-and-desist letter to Rowan Valkyrie—the most hated tenant in Seattle’s Hoskins building. But when the ambitious paralegal ambushes the seasoned security expert in the elevator, she ignites a powder keg of tempers and attraction.

Rowan and Vivian clash like only a twenty-something progressive and a forty-something ex-Marine can, but when one misstep sends Vivian flailing into Rowan’s arms, the pair also find themselves tumbling into a secret office romance. Vivian is soon head-over-heels for the older CEO, but thanks to the efforts of a conniving coworker, she worries that he might not take her seriously. When things come to a head the night of Vivian’s biggest work event, the gaps between them start to feel too large. But before Rowan can fix things, a shocking attack puts Vivian in the cross-hairs of a mysterious assailant.

Heartbroken, Vivian is determined to deny her feelings and put all her energy into catching her attacker. And Rowan is desperate to protect Vivian because unless he can push all the right buttons, this elevator ride might be going straight down.

Elevator Ride—Book 1 of the Valkyrie Brothers Trilogy—is a action-packed, age-gap romance, perfect for fans of Janet Evanovich, Charlaine Harris, or Ali Hazelwood. One-click this hilarious, unputdownable rom-com mystery today!

Genres: Romance, Contemporary, Enemies To Lovers, Fiction

283 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 24, 2025

About the author

Bethany Maines, a native of Tacoma WA, is the award-winning author of action adventure tales that focus on women who know when to apply lipstick and when to apply a foot to someone’s hind end. When she’s not traveling to exotic lands, or kicking some serious butt with her black belt in karate, she can be found chasing after her daughter, or glued to the computer working on her next novel.

FB: www.facebook.com/AuthorBethanyMaines
INSTA: @AuthorBethanyMaines
TWIT: @BethanyMaines
WEB: www.bethanymaines.com

Reviews

[Amee · Rating 3 out of 5]

Well written with some very funny dialog and situations. Had slow parts throughout and just never was able to keep the pacing constantly moving forward. Both MC’s were likable enough, and this was a step above instalove with both falling equally as fast. Had a bit of a suspense, who-done-it aspect. Thanks to BookSirens for this book 1 in the Valkyrie Brothers series. Looking forward to the next 2 books for each of Rowan’s brothers we’ve met in this one.

[Lisa · Rating 3 out of 5]

Elevator Ride by Bethany Maines is a fun, sexy, and action-packed launch to The Valkyrie Brothers series. This slow-burn romance skillfully blends sharp banter, military intrigue, and simmering chemistry into an entertaining and emotionally grounded narrative.

The premise immediately grabs your attention: Rowan Valkyrie, a confident, wealthy, and undeniably attractive CEO of an elite security firm, steps into an elevator—only to be ambushed by a striking woman handing him a piece of paper with the words, “You’ve been served.” That woman is Vivian Kaye: whip-smart, fiercely independent, blunt, a little reckless, and absolutely unforgettable. Their first encounter sets the stage for a dynamic, tension-filled relationship as they navigate professional obstacles, personal baggage, and undeniable attraction.

The story takes its time to unfold, focusing on character development, before the action intensifies in the final quarter. If you appreciate a slower-paced, story-driven romance with light spice, you will find the structure rewarding. Although, it was a little slow for my taste. The banter between Rowan and Vivian is clever and engaging, though I found the chemistry between them somewhat underwhelming—I was hoping for a stronger spark.

The novel also incorporates significant military and security elements, thoughtfully addressing topics such as PTSD and the loss of military personnel through a charity subplot. While handled with care and respect, readers sensitive to these subjects may wish to approach with awareness.

Despite the age gap between Rowan and Vivian, their relationship feels well-balanced, with both characters standing strong on their own. Vivian never comes across as needing rescuing—except, perhaps, during one situation. Her sass, wit, and resilience make her the standout character for me.

Overall, Elevator Ride is a quick, enjoyable read that leaves you intrigued about what’s next for the Valkyrie brothers. While I found the first half a bit slow and wished for more romantic intensity, I still had fun with this story. I’m giving it 3.25-3.50 stars for its sharp banter, strong heroine, and satisfying conclusion—and I look forward to seeing where the series goes from here.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Patricia Baxes · Rating 4 out of 5]

There’s a fine line between a rating of 3 stars and 4 stars. The last couple of chapters push ELEVATOR RIDE up to 4 stars. While the storyline evolved into a decent read, it took way too long to get to the ‘good stuff’ in this one. The characters were okay but I expected more based on the book blurb. Twists and turns were sort of meh…easy to forecast. Best part of all: the last few chapters leading to the HEA. While the book moved way too slowly for me, it’s still a nice read. I encourage you to give it a try! (I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book and ultimately found it quite entertaining.) ❤️

[Helen Causer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rowan Valkyrie, a retired US Marine,
sets up a security business with his “crew” and rents offices in a building, which is predominantly occupied by Lawyers, accountants, and financial planners.

Vivian Kaye works as a paralegal at the Law Firm, and is tasked with making sure everyone in the building is comfortable, and insists that Rowan’s team do not openly carry their weapons.

I received an advance review copy for free, and am leaving this honest review voluntarily

I thoroughly enjoyed reading this story, which has characters who have been brought to life by the author, with some Steamy scenes, and scenes where the Security firm has to use the weapons they carry.
This is Rowan’s and Vivian’s Story in the main, and the five stars I am awarding the book are very well earned. I look forward to reading more from the author.

[kim · Rating 3 out of 5]

That first chapter was really god at setting up the plot as well as Vivian and Rowan. I love how straight-to-the-point and headstrong she was next to this man of a man CEO. Their banter was so sharp and fun that I was anticipating when they would not be together. With that, a lot of the scenes in the middle were lacklustre.

I enjoyed watching them fall for each other while making their mental checklists on what they want in a partner. However, it felt as if their chemistry was a sudden jump rather than something nicely developed, if that makes any sense.

Thank you, BookSirens, for the ARC!

[Crystal · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really liked the story and characters. Vivian is a paralegal who's loved by her boss but unappreciated by the lawyers on her team. She's smart, funny and gets things done. Rowan is a hot, cocky, CEO who's loyal to those he cares about and dismissive to those he doesn't. The chemistry between them is obvious to all of their friends but old wounds and dangerous clients keep getting in the way of their romance. There's a lot of love for the armed forces in this book but not so much for the police. It was interesting to hear the characters use military jargon and come from a different point of view that gives the book a unique flavor. Luckily Rowan has two brothers that continue the storyline in future books. This is an early version so hopefully it's edited some more because the typos were driving me crazy.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Janice · Rating 4 out of 5]

Vivian Kaye served a cease-and-desist letter to Rowan Valkyrie; the attraction was immediate but he was worried about the age difference.

[Amanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5🌟
Elevator Ride by Bethany Maines is a spicy romance with a bit of mystery suspense. Love the funny banter, smart wit and hot & steamy chemistry. Looking forward to reading the supporting characters stories.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Marie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really loved this book, it has just the right amount of everything from laughter, tears, workplace envy, intrigue and spice. Vivian is a paralegal and although she smart, sassy and capable, she never really gets taken serious by most people as she never got a degree. When she tasked with approaching the security boss who's men are totally breaking all building codes she takes matters I to her own hands. Rowan hates queues and finding the lift full he takes the other one a young woman is on her own on. When the lift starts to move she suddenly addresses he personally and tells him to get his staff in order. Nobody every talks to him like that and suddenly he's intrigued by her. This is story that shows you should never jump to conclusions because what you see isn't always what you get, and Vivian is definitely a lot more than she looks. Can these two actually come to a place that keeps everyone happy. Will Vivian overcome her own insecurities. This book just keeps you turning page after page and I can't wait for the next installment..

[Aries.Pisces · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have found a new author to read!

Imagine being a sexy, cocky, and rich CEO of an elite security firm, walking through the the lobby of the building housing your temporary headquarters, listening to the chatter of the staff members accompanying you. You step into the elevator and realize that there is a beautiful woman accompanying you. Before you can think to say anything, she hands you a piece of paper and says, " You've been served."

Rowan Valkyrie's first meeting with the smart mouth, tough talking Vivian Kaye may have been an unexpected and unpleasant ambush but he's been thinking about her nonstop. Luckily for him, she's been thinking about him too. When Rowan has Vivian assigned as his building liaison, the two waste no time taking things to the next level. Despite the age difference, the two seem equally matched as a connection if forged due to their military connections.

The book is sexy and funny, with well balanced snark and sarcasm. The two main characters are completely equals, making this a great read. Vivian is smart and talented and secure in herself. She doesn't need Rowan to rescue her....except maybe that one time when she is being held hostage.

Elevator Ride is the first book of The Valkyrie Brothers series by Bethany Maines and my first read from this author. I thoroughly enjoyed the experience. In fact, I enjoyed it so much that I quickly knocked out each of the books in the Devereaux series, which I also highly recommend.


***There is a lot of military jargon and the charity in the story deals with PTSD and the deaths of returned military personnel. Although the subject matter is handled with the utmost respect and care, those who are triggered by either should consider this before reading the book.

[Lovelettelore · Rating 5 out of 5]

🚪🛗 Sometimes all it takes is one elevator ride to completely derail your life.

📖 Elevator Ride by Bethany Maines
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Contemporary Romance

Tropes:
💼 CEO x Paralegal
🏢 Workplace / same-building romance
🔥 Feisty FMC
🎖️ Marine MMC

Viviane needs to send a cease-and-desist letter to one of her boss’s most elusive tenants—Rowan Valkyrie, a reclusive CEO who’s been expertly dodging every complaint and confrontation in the building. While everyone else has failed to reach him, Viviane manages to do what no one else has—get face-to-face with him… by ambushing him in the elevator. From that moment on, their chance encounters turn into something neither of them expected.

I really enjoyed this book. The banter between Viv and Rowan is smooth, witty, and genuinely funny—I caught myself smiling and giggling more than once. Their dynamic is sweet, flirty, and effortless in a way that makes it obvious they work well together.

This is definitely a fast-paced romance—they click almost immediately—but it works for the story. Even with the quick connection, there are outside pressures and personal insecurities that test their relationship, which keeps it from feeling too easy.

I also liked that the plot doesn’t disappear behind the romance. There’s still tension, movement, and a bit of action layered in, which made the story feel more rounded and engaging.

What really stood out to me was how mature their communication was. They confront their assumptions, admit their insecurities, and choose to move forward instead of dragging out misunderstandings—and that was refreshing.

Thank you Booksirens for this ARC. I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.

[Tera Honaker · Rating 4 out of 5]

Elevator Ride by Bethany Maines is a modern romcom and more that has a little bit of everything. It has enemies-to-lovers, age-gap, forced proximity, witty banter, and even a little attempted murder all set in a fast-paced business environment. Sprinkle a little military background in there and you've got a recipe for a unique and intriguing read that will keep the pages turning.

Our FMC Vivian is a mouthy paralegal working for a successful law firm (in which one of the attorneys owns the building) tasked with keeping the CEO (Rowen) of Valkyrie Security and his team in line and preventing them from causing chaos in their shared office building. I loved this premise, and I thought Vivian was just the girl for the job! The author's character descriptions were spot on, and I bonded instantly to each one. And while I really enjoyed Vivian's character, there were a couple of things about her personally that I felt were at odds in this story and a little forced and maybe even unnecessary. Of course, that is only my opinion. Getting back to it, the author's writing flowed wonderfully and effortlessly and simply made for enjoyable reading.

I did feel like the mystery in the plot was definitely foreseeable, but maybe it was meant to be so. It was still interesting, and I enjoyed reading it all play out. There are going to be more books in this series, and I'm not opposed to finding out what happens next. I would definitely recommend this to all those who love a good romcom, a little mystery, and a fair amount of spice as well!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Amy M · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The relationships were believable, I laughed out loud several times, and the pacing was consistent. The twists and turns were pretty predictable, but the characters really stood out over the plot.

Vivian is a paralegal working at a high-powered law firm. Rowan owns a security firm housed in the same building as Vivian's office. After sending multiple complaints, Vivian corners Rowan in the elevator and hands him a cease and desist while chewing him out for his employees' behavior. Rowan, very aroused by being put in his place, requests that Vivian be his building liaison so he can see her again.

The comedy in this book was so good. I actually choked a bit when Chappie said, "I will pray over the broken nose I'm about to give you!" The pokes at toxic masculinity were hilarious, especially with the guys. The collective decision that knowing about Alice in Wonderland did not challenge their masculinity made me snort.

The relationship between Vivian and Rowan moved at a pretty decent pace. The miscommunication is from Rowan putting his foot in his mouth, not deliberate withholding or lying. I liked Rowan's growth, both as a leader and as a partner. I was getting so irritated when he kept minimizing Vivian's work on the gala, so I was thrilled that he realized just how much work she did and that he needed to stop dismissing her effort. The relationship moved quickly, but military relationships do that, so it didn't seem too far-fetched that they would move in together after a month.

Thank you to BookSirens and Bethany Maines for the free eARC.

[Stacey T · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story is an age-gap romance filled with witty banter and military strategy. Vivian is a paralegal who feels that both her career and personal life should be progressing. The loss of her father left a significant impact on her, and she struggles to recognize her own worth. Now, she is tasked with addressing issues related to the new building tenants, a security agency. While she knows that tactical measures are necessary, she doesn’t expect to find herself attracted to the agency's owner. Rowan, a retired Marine, has started a successful security agency. Everything seems to be going smoothly until a spirited and beautiful woman traps him in the elevator, confronting him and his employees about building misconduct. Now, he can’t get her out of his mind and decides to devise a plan to see if she might be the missing piece in his life. As their relationship develops, will they realize they are a perfect match, or will poor judgment lead to their downfall? When unexpected challenges arise, can they uncover the threat to her and her boss before it’s too late and save the day?
I enjoyed this book from the very beginning. The characters had fantastic chemistry, and their banter was entertaining. Additionally, the interactions with her friends and his employees brought many humorous moments. The drama near the end of the book added depth and showcased how military tactics come into play during dangerous situations. Overall, it was a great read, and I look forward to the next book! I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Laure · Rating 5 out of 5]

Vivian Kaye is a paralegal working for one of the best law firms in Seattle. Located in the Hoskins building also the supposedly temporary headquarters for Valkyrie Security. As the office go-to-girl she is given the task of delivering a cease-and-desist letter to Rowan Valkyrie, the Marine veteran CEO of the security company. Rowan is more than a little surprised when the curvy brunette corners him in the elevator on his way to work but quickly realizes that there is more than meets the eye to the pretty, twenty something woman whom he would definitely like to get to know much better.
I loved these characters! Vivian is used to being underestimated and sometimes a bit lacking in self-esteem, but she also knows that she wants Rowan. These characters are absolutely wonderful, and their personalities are so well written and realistic that they manage to shine through-out this book. They also made me laugh out loud all the way through this book and I highly recommend this book to other readers. A steamy action-packed romance with suspense, murder, gunfire, a happily ever after and plenty of twists in the plot to keep a reader engrossed from the first page.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary ARC I received from Hidden Gems.

[Brandi · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars, rounded up ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Elevator Ride starts with a punch—Vivian, a paralegal with more guts than most, ambushes Rowan Valkyrie (yes, that’s his actual name) in an elevator to serve him a cease and desist. I loved that she wasn’t intimidated by his powerful CEO energy and held her own from the start. She’s smart, capable, and clearly respected by her boss, even if the other lawyers at her firm don’t treat her the way they should.

The blend of suspense and romance was one of the stronger parts of the story—it gave things an unexpected edge and helped keep the stakes interesting. That said, I did find the pacing a bit slow in places, and I lost interest at times. There were moments where I wanted the plot to pick up or the characters to dig a little deeper emotionally.

The third-person narration also created a bit of distance for me—it’s not a deal-breaker, but I think I would’ve connected more with a first-person POV, especially in a character-driven romance.

Still, this is a light, quick read. Perfect for upcoming summer and beach weather. If you're looking for something with a little mystery, a little banter, and spice (of course) this might be worth picking up.

[Dionne Muller · Rating 4 out of 5]

In "Elevator Ride," the first book in The Valkyrie Brothers series by Bethany Maines, sparks fly when ambitious paralegal Vivian Kaye and seasoned security expert Rowan Valkyrie collide in an elevator.

Tasked with serving Rowan a cease-and-desist letter since he's the most despised tenant in Seattle's Hoskins building, Vivian boldly confronts him in close quarters. But instead of a simple document handoff, their charged encounter ignites a fiery explosion of clashing personalities and undeniable attraction.

Maines masterfully pulls the reader in from the very first page with instantly likable, vividly drawn characters who share a sizzling chemistry and witty, humorous banter. The stellar, well-developed cast of secondary characters further enlivens the story, adding colour and dimension.

With its brisk pacing, the novel strikes just the right balance between the main characters' initial animosity and growing pull towards each other, while seamlessly weaving in touches of humour, spice, intrigue, and action.

The end result is a fast, fun, engaging read that will leave fans of contemporary romance eager for the next instalment in this exciting new series.

[Deanna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Elevator Ride



Imagine being a sexy, cocky, and rich CEO of an elite security firm, walking through the the lobby of the building housing your temporary headquarters, listening to the chatter of the staff members accompanying you. You step into the elevator and realize that there is a beautiful woman accompanying you. Before you can think to say anything, she hands you a piece of paper and says, " You've been served."

Rowan Valkyrie's first meeting with the smart mouth, tough talking Vivian Kaye may have been an unexpected and unpleasant ambush but he's been thinking about her nonstop. Luckily for him, she's been thinking about him too. When Rowan has Vivian assigned as his building liaison, the two waste no time taking things to the next level. Despite the age difference, the two seem equally matched as a connection if forged due to their military connections.

The book is sexy and funny, with well balanced snark and sarcasm. The two main characters are completely equals, making this a great read. Vivian is smart and talented and secure in herself. She doesn't need Rowan to rescue her....except maybe that one time when she is being held hostage.

[K.R. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Elevator Ride by Bethany Maines was a quick but beautiful read. I won’t be looking at the next elevator the same way for sure. Vivian and Rowan are smoking hot. There is an age gap, but it’s perfect. Neither has had an easy life, and they end up together at the perfect time. I love her smart mouth and sharp wit; she’s exactly what he needs to break out of his grumpy shell. Rowan is tough, yet soft once you get past those layers. I love his family and can’t wait for other books to delve into those deeper backstories.
There was a lovely side plot that added elements of mystery and pushed their relationship together when outsiders wanted to break them apart. I'm looking at you, horrible coworker and client. Plenty of people to love in the book and a few characters to hate.
I’d definitely recommend this one to anyone wanting a nice HEA and no cliffhanger that leads you wanting to know the other characters more in additional books to come. It's a quick way to earn five stars in my book!

[Deborah · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the perfect mash-up of meet cute, enemies to lovers, and mystery. It really worked out well that the former military security types took over the top floor of the Hoskins Building and that Howard Hoskins had a paralegal on staff who could out General any General. It was also lucky that said paralegal cornered Rowan Valkyrie, owner of the security firm, in the elevator to impress on him that his employees could not display their weapons where clients of the law firm could see them. So, when representatives of Rowan's firm attended a fundraiser for Victory Mission, they took over the investigation of a shooting outside the building where the fundraiser was happening. Oh, yes, and Rowan and Vivian, the aforementioned General, were flirting with falling in love.

The writing is crisp, but full of humor. A very engaging read. I've already pre-ordered the next book in the series and started looking at other books by the author!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Linda Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Military brat and a military man take the ride of a lifetime
Ms. Maines has combined humor, intrigue, steam, and romance in one captivating little package. And, I want more. This is a well-written and executed age-gap rom-com. Love the plot and the characters were wonderful. Loved Olly! Perfect cover. I found myself laughing out loud which is not me at all. I may smile from time to time, but rarely laugh. In this book, the humor sneaked up on me and Bam! I was chuckling. If this entices you to read this book, you will not be disappointed. I was drawn into the story immediately and remained that way throughout; I read until I had to force myself to put the book down and go to sleep!
The blurb does an admirable job of describing the plot so I won’t go into that part. Just know that this book comes highly recommended. And, I am on to the last book since I have already read book number two. Oh! That reminds me…these books so far seem to run concurrently which is fun if you read all three. I volunteered to review an ARC of this book through BookSirens.

[Marsha · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. This is the first I'm reading from this author so I didn't know what to expect, but I was pleasantly surprised by how well written it was. The characters, their backgrounds. They were smart and their thought process felt real and not over dramatized for effect. I really enjoyed the Heroine and how she handled herself around all these military men. She fit in as if she were "One of the Guys" yet still had that feminine charm. The Hero was an alpha, yet wasn't too cocky or over the top. The side characters were equally entertaining. There were plenty of laughs. Some steamy scenes (yet not in a smutty way, and somewhat toned down.) There was some thriller-esque action and a little mystery. I am not at all familiar with military mumbo jumbo, but this author wrote it like she was. It alternates POVs. Overall, this is a good, delightful read.

*I received a copy of this book from Hidden Gems.

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this story. It has everything I hope for in a fun read: characters that are people I'd like to meet and trade snarky text messages with (except the bad guys, of course), lots of action, and some engaging relationship drama. Part rom-com, part romantic suspense, Ms. Maines skillfully walks that fine line between believable and just a little outrageous as this story unfolds. Rowan and Vivian have an elevator meet/cute that does not involve them getting stuck together when she accosts him in the office building elevator to serve him with a cease and desist letter. This scene sets them on a path as enemies, but there is also chemistry between them, and the mayhem ensues. I loved the crowd of secondary characters: Rowan's family, his security team employees, Vivian's coworkers and friends - and I look forward to reading more books in this series that include them. Quite the enjoyable read that I couldn't put down!

[Barb · Rating 5 out of 5]

Vivian is a paralegal and is asked to tell Rowan, the head of a security firm, that his men are not to carry their weapons though the lobby of their building. She confronts him in the elevator like no one else and he is smitten. He gets Vivian to be his liaison to the man who owns the building, her boss. I loved this book. The relationship she has with her boss is endearing. He is ex-military and a dear friend of her Marine father who is deceased. Her passion is helping vets avoid suicide and she works to create a gala each year to garner donations. Rowan and his team of security are also ex- Marines and he has a new found respect for Vivian. The gala encounters hit men and a need to find out who wants Vivian and her boss dead. There is passion for the military, love, camaraderie, and lots of action. I really appreciated the focus on vets and how they need our help.

[Emily Knaus · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a fun, highly entertaining, and suspenseful age gap romance! I loved the characters, the banter, and the emotional depth.

The chemistry between Rowan and Vivian is sizzling! From their very first encounter you know it’s going to be good. Vivian is an assistant at a Law Firm in the same building as Rowan’s security firm. Their meet cute in the elevator was priceless. The push and pull you feel between these two is incredible. Their attraction went beyond the physical, but still was steamy!

What could have been a very surface level romance, really dug into deep, relatable feelings. I loved how cherished Rowan made Vivian feel. They both really valued each other’s feelings. And, Rowan was the first to admit when he made a mistake and acted in haste. I really just loved the maturity of this relationship and the open communication they had.

Elevator Ride by Bethany Maines is a flirty and sexy age gap romance with a touch of danger and excitement. You’ll love initial slow burn tension between Rowan and Vivian. It’ll get even better as the story develops - we see these two really form a bond under pressure that never waivers. Their feelings are steady and comforting, while the actions are big and bold. The side characters are great - loved Rowan’s crew of guys! Vivian’s boss was a hoot too!

It’s a very fun read with a sassy, determined FMC and grumpy, matter of fact former Marine MMC who is a total simp for the girl. These two could not be more perfect for one another.

Thank you so much to Book Sirens and Bethany Maines for the early copy! It is a must read for age gap lovers looking for spice and plot!

[Rachel E. · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed Rowan and Vivian getting together. I love a strong FMC and an MMC who loves her because of her strength not in spite of it. In the beginning I had an issue with authors pattern of speech; this is the first I've read of their work. After awhile it was little easier to predict the writing style as the story developed.

I also liked the interactions with the secondary characters. they all worked well to "get the bad guy"

as far as the formatting, I think the paragraphs could have been split so they weren't as long and another round of editing could have been helpful. periodically there were words missing or slightly out of order.

Despite some of the mistakes it was a very enjoyable read.

I received an advance review copy for free through BookSirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Kair · Rating 5 out of 5]

Elevator Ride by Bethany Maines is the first book in the new series The Valkyrie Brothers. This book is a funny rom-com mystery that I really enjoyed. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

The book features Vivian Kaye a smart, funny and scrappy paralegal at a large Seattle law firm and Rowan Valkyrie a grumpy former Marine and security expert. What makes this rom-com unique is the way it incorporates the real issue of how ex-military personal adjust to being civilians again with a funny romance. There are also two brothers who have their own side stories, which I assume will develop into their own books. Elevator Ride was an easy read and surprisingly refreshing rom-com that I really enjoyed. I highly recommend it.

[Kristen Lewendon · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don’t know if I’ve ever laughed so hard at a romantic suspense book before in my life. There was a lot of “Mr. & Mrs. Smith” energy about it, except our leading couple weren’t necessarily trying to kill each other. Rowan and Vivian are stunningly competent professionals caught in situations that cause them to improvise every time they turn around, while also being forced to face what they truly feel about each other. The author’s somewhat evil and the book was fantastic! I think I’ve gone and fallen in love with their whole supporting cast, so I'm going to need books about more than just the other Valkyrie brothers,
I received a complimentary advance copy of this book through Hidden Gems Books.

[Marie Richter · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to BookSirens for providing the free ARC for this book. My review is provided voluntarily.

What a pleasant surprise: You can have drama mixed with romance and still have fun! ‘Elevator Ride’ is a breezy romp through Rowan and Vivian’s situationship until the ransacking begins, bullets start flying, and families are threatened. For any other couple this could spell disaster, but for these two lovebirds it’s just foreplay.

Be aware, though, that there are some 🌶️🌶️🌶️ scenes, a fair amount of firearms talk (main characters and families are ex-military), and a bit of current politics, but nothing is extraneous or forced, so it all rounds out a story that feels current and relatable.

[Claudete Takahashi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Elevator Ride is a fun, entertaining read that takes maybe a bit too long explaining characters behavior and reasoning behind their actions. The story gets faster-paced and full of intrigue and mystery after the gala for the Veteran's Non Profit when Vivian and her boss, Howard, get shot at. It is then, that Rowan and his team will prove their capabilities, first ensuring that everything that needs to be done is done to help people at the venue. They'll run their investigation, identify the culprit, and make them surrender to the police. It's only after that that Rowan and Vivian will find their happy ending.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.