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SAGA #0.5
The Townie
All Dani Sommer wanted was a sexy summer fling before her study abroad. But when the twenty-year-old discovers Sorin Kruk, the hot-as-hell townie bartender, is tied to the Polish mafia, everything changes for the worse. His seductive charm and manipulative ways keep her coming back, drowning out both her intuition and the warnings of her friends and family.
This is not a love story. Dani’s fling with Sorin—a forty-year-old with a morally black soul—is the beginning of a saga. Their age-gap relationship spirals into an adrenaline-fueled descent of reckless decisions and dangerous thrills. When Sorin upsets his boss, things take a dark turn, leaving Dani trapped in his house after the mafia tries to use her as a pawn. With tensions running high, the tender guy beneath the bad boy bravado disappears, resulting in abuse escalating to unimaginable heights.
Set against the backdrop of Geneva Lake, Wisconsin, this book explores what happens when you’re pushed to your limits—again and again. This isn’t just steamy; it’s so intense, you won’t dare read it in public.
By summer’s end, Dani is no longer the same girl. The Townie is a brutal, raw journey from innocence to hard-earned strength.
Tropes: Age Gap, Mafia, Coming of Age, Forbidden Love, Small Town, Dark Romance
SAGA Series Description
Finding yourself is a saga—and for Dani Sommer, it’s a wild one. The SAGA Series (The Townie, The Renter, The Client, The Reporter, and The One) follows Dani through the rollercoaster of her twenties, filled with passion, heartbreak, and self-discovery. Each book brings new relationships as Dani grows closer to understanding her desires and needs—both in and out of the bedroom.
The SAGA Series stands for Sorin, Adam, Gideon & Auden—the main male characters of each book.
Sorin – The Townie (Prequel)
Adam – The Renter (Book 1)
Gideon – The Client (Book 2)
Auden – The Reporter (Book 3)
??? – The One (Book 4)
The SAGA Series is women’s fiction with coming of age and romantic themes. While each book explores different romance tropes and spice levels, Dani’s ultimate happily ever after comes in The One, the final book of the series.
This is not a love story. Dani’s fling with Sorin—a forty-year-old with a morally black soul—is the beginning of a saga. Their age-gap relationship spirals into an adrenaline-fueled descent of reckless decisions and dangerous thrills. When Sorin upsets his boss, things take a dark turn, leaving Dani trapped in his house after the mafia tries to use her as a pawn. With tensions running high, the tender guy beneath the bad boy bravado disappears, resulting in abuse escalating to unimaginable heights.
Set against the backdrop of Geneva Lake, Wisconsin, this book explores what happens when you’re pushed to your limits—again and again. This isn’t just steamy; it’s so intense, you won’t dare read it in public.
By summer’s end, Dani is no longer the same girl. The Townie is a brutal, raw journey from innocence to hard-earned strength.
Tropes: Age Gap, Mafia, Coming of Age, Forbidden Love, Small Town, Dark Romance
SAGA Series Description
Finding yourself is a saga—and for Dani Sommer, it’s a wild one. The SAGA Series (The Townie, The Renter, The Client, The Reporter, and The One) follows Dani through the rollercoaster of her twenties, filled with passion, heartbreak, and self-discovery. Each book brings new relationships as Dani grows closer to understanding her desires and needs—both in and out of the bedroom.
The SAGA Series stands for Sorin, Adam, Gideon & Auden—the main male characters of each book.
Sorin – The Townie (Prequel)
Adam – The Renter (Book 1)
Gideon – The Client (Book 2)
Auden – The Reporter (Book 3)
??? – The One (Book 4)
The SAGA Series is women’s fiction with coming of age and romantic themes. While each book explores different romance tropes and spice levels, Dani’s ultimate happily ever after comes in The One, the final book of the series.
Kindle Edition
Published November 1, 2024
217 people are currently reading
777 people want to read
About the author
Serena Pier
14 books627 followersSerena Pier is a recovering girl boss, mom, and wife. After being called a brat for as long as she can remember, she decided to lean into it—writing sassy, strong, complex female characters who fully embrace the sexy side of the word. Her books are influenced by her endless fascination with power dynamics and how they play out in relationships, workplaces, and everyday life. Most of her stories are set in and around Chicago, paying tribute to her Midwestern roots and love of all things dairy. When she isn’t in front of a screen, Serena can be found pontooning with her family, enjoying a glass of wine with friends, and driving as fast as she can on the track. Literary Agent - Amanda Wooden, SBR Media
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 88 reviews
September 7, 2024
wow
Wow this book was such a great read. This is not your traditional dark romance with the usual hea but does have the perfect hfn ending, which is perfect as this is just the start of Dani’s adult life .
This is a very gritty raw account of our fmcs life spiralling out of control at the hands of the Mmc sorin ( who you really should despise but…..!)
Hopefully we’ll hear more about some of the other side characters in the rest of the series because some of them were very likeable (Declan).
Can’t wait to carry on with this series because this book was unputadownable!!!!
Wow this book was such a great read. This is not your traditional dark romance with the usual hea but does have the perfect hfn ending, which is perfect as this is just the start of Dani’s adult life .
This is a very gritty raw account of our fmcs life spiralling out of control at the hands of the Mmc sorin ( who you really should despise but…..!)
Hopefully we’ll hear more about some of the other side characters in the rest of the series because some of them were very likeable (Declan).
Can’t wait to carry on with this series because this book was unputadownable!!!!
September 20, 2024
I read this book in one sitting. 3 hours of reading. Absolutely enthralled! Definitely not the average dark romance, it makes you want to scream at the main character.
Now to the honest review.
If you want a dark romance with a ton of triggers this is for you. If you think Sophie Lark (a dear friend of mine) has a lot of spice then you need to read Serena Pier. This book was carefully skilfully crafted to make you think what’s next and keep you on edge. Nothing in this book was written to forget about. I read this book in 3 hours starting at 6am ending at 9am. It is currently 4:18 in the afternoon and I’m still thinking and recommending this book to my mom. Yes, my own mother. Now we can’t wonder who I get my smut sensibilities from lol. My neighbour has even taken a liking to reading this as her first dark romance and she is enthralled just as much as I was. If you want a book that will keep you lusting for it when it’s done this is it.
Now to the honest review.
If you want a dark romance with a ton of triggers this is for you. If you think Sophie Lark (a dear friend of mine) has a lot of spice then you need to read Serena Pier. This book was carefully skilfully crafted to make you think what’s next and keep you on edge. Nothing in this book was written to forget about. I read this book in 3 hours starting at 6am ending at 9am. It is currently 4:18 in the afternoon and I’m still thinking and recommending this book to my mom. Yes, my own mother. Now we can’t wonder who I get my smut sensibilities from lol. My neighbour has even taken a liking to reading this as her first dark romance and she is enthralled just as much as I was. If you want a book that will keep you lusting for it when it’s done this is it.
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August 23, 2024Dnf at 20% Sorin is gross and seems like a loser. Found a few spelling errors
November 1, 2024
This book was surprisingly good— minimal dark elements, good level of spice, and well written. Coming of age, age gap is definitely not my normal trope, but I actually thoroughly enjoyed it!
April 6, 2025
I need to read the rest of the series IMMEDIATELY!
The Townie isnt a happily ever after since the entire series follows Dani. She is trying to find herself throughout her adult life. And like any one else who has had different boyfriends throughout their life with this is exactly what is going on.
I was so mad at myself for falling asleep last night because I needed to know what was going to happen. Even with no HEA this book absolutely incredible. My heart was poudning and not only from the steaming spice but with parts that are actually suspenseful. I need to pause time so I read the other two TODAY!
This series is different then anything I have ever read. I didnt know what I was missing until I started this.
You will have no regrets picking this book up and I HIGHLY RECCOMEND IT.
Alright im done yapping so I can start the next book!
The Townie isnt a happily ever after since the entire series follows Dani. She is trying to find herself throughout her adult life. And like any one else who has had different boyfriends throughout their life with this is exactly what is going on.
I was so mad at myself for falling asleep last night because I needed to know what was going to happen. Even with no HEA this book absolutely incredible. My heart was poudning and not only from the steaming spice but with parts that are actually suspenseful. I need to pause time so I read the other two TODAY!
This series is different then anything I have ever read. I didnt know what I was missing until I started this.
You will have no regrets picking this book up and I HIGHLY RECCOMEND IT.
Alright im done yapping so I can start the next book!
May 12, 2025
I have been wanting to read The Townie ever since I read The Renter.
This book is balls to the walls insane! I think the story perfectly depicts that feeling of young love and how you ignore red flags because you just don't know any better or know your boundaries yet. There were so many times while reading this book that I thought to myself "GIRL LEAVE HIM!!!!" But to be honest, I couldn't stand the MMC from page one ( probably because I've read the other books first)
If you're looking for a DARK mafia romance with no happy ending- read this book ASAP!
The SAGA series will continue to follow Dani's story as she continues to date and continues to grow / create those boundaries throughout each book.
I can't wait to read "The One" !!!
#teamdeclan ❤️🔥
This book is balls to the walls insane! I think the story perfectly depicts that feeling of young love and how you ignore red flags because you just don't know any better or know your boundaries yet. There were so many times while reading this book that I thought to myself "GIRL LEAVE HIM!!!!" But to be honest, I couldn't stand the MMC from page one ( probably because I've read the other books first)
If you're looking for a DARK mafia romance with no happy ending- read this book ASAP!
The SAGA series will continue to follow Dani's story as she continues to date and continues to grow / create those boundaries throughout each book.
I can't wait to read "The One" !!!
#teamdeclan ❤️🔥
October 27, 2025
So you want to be a townie…
Welcome to your summer break where the action is hot and spicy.
I took a chance on this book, it had every trope I like. I mean who doesn’t love a hot older guy who happens to have dealings in the Mafia 😅
Honestly though Sorin, as hot and as charming as he might be, is a complete and utter a-hole in the nicest way possible 😂
Dani, girl, I wanted to bang my head against a wall. Literally full of lust and love for Sorin, it made me think of my first every serious relationship and how utterly devoted I was to him 🙈 in the end I just wanted to take Dani and hide her away from Sorin and give him a mamma talking to 😂.
Although the relationship was rocky and who knows which way was up I am glad that everything worked out. What a fast ride that was but also enjoyable ✨
Welcome to your summer break where the action is hot and spicy.
I took a chance on this book, it had every trope I like. I mean who doesn’t love a hot older guy who happens to have dealings in the Mafia 😅
Honestly though Sorin, as hot and as charming as he might be, is a complete and utter a-hole in the nicest way possible 😂
Dani, girl, I wanted to bang my head against a wall. Literally full of lust and love for Sorin, it made me think of my first every serious relationship and how utterly devoted I was to him 🙈 in the end I just wanted to take Dani and hide her away from Sorin and give him a mamma talking to 😂.
Although the relationship was rocky and who knows which way was up I am glad that everything worked out. What a fast ride that was but also enjoyable ✨
April 22, 2025
Wow. I literally ate this book up in like 3 hours, it’s that good. Serena blew me away with her holiday novellas but this……is something else. I will say this is the first dark romance book that has ever made me feel uncomfortable and god do I love her for that. Please beware that the trigger warnings in this book are no joke! I’m reading this series for the first time so I can’t wait to see what happens in the next book.
December 31, 2022
this book is a rollercoaster
Dani comes home for the summer before she goes to Italy in September to study. Dani ends up seeing Sorin who she’s always been attracted to. They start seeing each other and things start getting out of control He’s keeping secrets from her and she starts keeping secrets from him. She’s going down a bad path. Great characters and storyline. Highly recommended Amazing book. I love Dani character development throughout the book. The supporting characters are great. Very spicy Read your trigger warning.
Dani comes home for the summer before she goes to Italy in September to study. Dani ends up seeing Sorin who she’s always been attracted to. They start seeing each other and things start getting out of control He’s keeping secrets from her and she starts keeping secrets from him. She’s going down a bad path. Great characters and storyline. Highly recommended Amazing book. I love Dani character development throughout the book. The supporting characters are great. Very spicy Read your trigger warning.
July 18, 2025
I loved that Dani listened to some of my favorite rock bands. She had an intense summer fling and that is an understatement. Excited to see what happens in the next book. This was a prequel to the series.
December 6, 2025
I rage finished this book. I'm pretty sure I sprained my eye muscles from rolling them everytime the FMC giggled or said she had to pee.
The FMC was extremely immature and acted more like an high school kid than a 20 yr old. And the MMC was a tool. This wasn't a dark romance....this was a toxic relationship full of abuse.
And it was just gross.
The FMC was extremely immature and acted more like an high school kid than a 20 yr old. And the MMC was a tool. This wasn't a dark romance....this was a toxic relationship full of abuse.
And it was just gross.
August 7, 2025
4.25⭐5🌶️
This book is twisted, intense, and emotionally layered—definitely not a light read, and I highly recommend checking the full list of trigger warnings before diving in.
Sorin Kruk is the definition of a walking red flag, and Dani charges straight toward him like a bull, head first. What follows is a fast, disorienting spiral—one where the lines between choice, survival, and self-betrayal blur. Dani starts to rationalize things that should never be rationalized, and for much of the story, she loses pieces of herself trying to hold everything together. Watching her dissociate and abandon her instincts is heartbreakingly painful and intense.
Don’t get me wrong, I am 1000% into a tattooed, tall, fit older guy with a possessive streak. I mean, ✔️✔️✔️✔️, but when he starts throwing red flags like a ref at a soccer game and isolates her from the outside world, it’s time to go. Dani is young and impressionable and all too quickly rationalizes unacceptable behavior.
And yet, despite how dark and uncomfortable parts of the journey are, there’s something gorgeously powerful in the way Dani eventually reclaims her independence. It’s not neat and it’s definitely not easy. It’s raw, terrifying, and charged.
Regarding the spice, some scenes are off-the-charts dirty and delicious, but others are deeply unsettling. This is the kind of book where the heat adds tension and occasionally steam, but the impending escalation dances around the periphery until it's too late.
If you’re into truly dark romance with heavy emotion, high stakes, and flawed characters who make all the wrong choices before finding their way back to themselves, this one's worth the read.
Tropes:
🖤Dark Romance
🌱Coming of Age
💣Mafia
⏳Age Gap
📖Women’s Fiction
🏡Small town
💀Touch her and die
🗝️Possessive
This book is twisted, intense, and emotionally layered—definitely not a light read, and I highly recommend checking the full list of trigger warnings before diving in.
Sorin Kruk is the definition of a walking red flag, and Dani charges straight toward him like a bull, head first. What follows is a fast, disorienting spiral—one where the lines between choice, survival, and self-betrayal blur. Dani starts to rationalize things that should never be rationalized, and for much of the story, she loses pieces of herself trying to hold everything together. Watching her dissociate and abandon her instincts is heartbreakingly painful and intense.
Don’t get me wrong, I am 1000% into a tattooed, tall, fit older guy with a possessive streak. I mean, ✔️✔️✔️✔️, but when he starts throwing red flags like a ref at a soccer game and isolates her from the outside world, it’s time to go. Dani is young and impressionable and all too quickly rationalizes unacceptable behavior.
And yet, despite how dark and uncomfortable parts of the journey are, there’s something gorgeously powerful in the way Dani eventually reclaims her independence. It’s not neat and it’s definitely not easy. It’s raw, terrifying, and charged.
Regarding the spice, some scenes are off-the-charts dirty and delicious, but others are deeply unsettling. This is the kind of book where the heat adds tension and occasionally steam, but the impending escalation dances around the periphery until it's too late.
If you’re into truly dark romance with heavy emotion, high stakes, and flawed characters who make all the wrong choices before finding their way back to themselves, this one's worth the read.
Tropes:
🖤Dark Romance
🌱Coming of Age
💣Mafia
⏳Age Gap
📖Women’s Fiction
🏡Small town
💀Touch her and die
🗝️Possessive
February 5, 2025
😮💨 y’all… Serena Pier always gets me! The Townie is the prequel in her “SAGA” series, featuring Dani, who is on the path to finding herself. She just also happens to find a bad boy named Sorin along the way! This dark romance is full of craziness that will have you wanting to SCREAM at Dani!! If you’re into dark romance and coming of age, this is for you!
The SAGA series follows Dani from the time she’s 20, until she’s 28. The books don’t have the traditional HEA BUT.. Dani finds herself in a better place and stronger at the end of each book. Rumor has it, she will find her happily ever after in the final book, The One. 😉
Read this one if you’re into:
✨Dark romance
✨Age gap romance
✨Small town romance
✨Coming of age
I have had the privilege to Beta Read several of Serena’s books and I have absolutely loved every one of them! The SAGA series order is as follows:
The Townie (the prequel), out on Kindle Unlimited now!
The Renter (book one), out on Kindle Unlimited now!
The Client (book two), releases April 2025 (I got to Beta Read this one and omggggg).
The Reporter (book three), release date to be determined (also Beta Read this one and also… OMG!!!).
The One (book four), release date to be determined.
The SAGA series follows Dani from the time she’s 20, until she’s 28. The books don’t have the traditional HEA BUT.. Dani finds herself in a better place and stronger at the end of each book. Rumor has it, she will find her happily ever after in the final book, The One. 😉
Read this one if you’re into:
✨Dark romance
✨Age gap romance
✨Small town romance
✨Coming of age
I have had the privilege to Beta Read several of Serena’s books and I have absolutely loved every one of them! The SAGA series order is as follows:
The Townie (the prequel), out on Kindle Unlimited now!
The Renter (book one), out on Kindle Unlimited now!
The Client (book two), releases April 2025 (I got to Beta Read this one and omggggg).
The Reporter (book three), release date to be determined (also Beta Read this one and also… OMG!!!).
The One (book four), release date to be determined.
July 19, 2025
I’m SO CONFLICTED. Possible spoilers in my ramble.
I HATED the MMC. But you’re supposed to. I know you are. It’s a series where she’s growing and learning about herself. She won’t get her happy ever after until the last book. But damn this was rough at parts.
I’ve never read a book where even at the end, you’re not supposed to like the guy. I kept wanting to try and find some good in him. Spoiler alert there is no good in this asshole. I think had he been her age (18) or even 25, I could have enjoyed it more. But dude is 40!!!! He acted like a teenager. From being ultra creepy possessive and physically abusive to saying “I love you” in the next breath. I was uncomfortable for a lot of this book.
All that said, I was really invested in this. I couldn’t stop reading even when I hated what was happening. I don’t know conflicted is the best I have. I was very excited about this series, but now I’m scared at the possibility of more of the guys she dates to be this bad. Is Sorin the worst?? Goodness I hope so!!! I feel like I want to continue, if she learns from her mistakes. If it’s just 4 more toxic books to find someone like this I’m not about it. So, I don’t know when I’ll read the next. I’m not in a hurry any more. And honestly I’m disappointed.
I HATED the MMC. But you’re supposed to. I know you are. It’s a series where she’s growing and learning about herself. She won’t get her happy ever after until the last book. But damn this was rough at parts.
I’ve never read a book where even at the end, you’re not supposed to like the guy. I kept wanting to try and find some good in him. Spoiler alert there is no good in this asshole. I think had he been her age (18) or even 25, I could have enjoyed it more. But dude is 40!!!! He acted like a teenager. From being ultra creepy possessive and physically abusive to saying “I love you” in the next breath. I was uncomfortable for a lot of this book.
All that said, I was really invested in this. I couldn’t stop reading even when I hated what was happening. I don’t know conflicted is the best I have. I was very excited about this series, but now I’m scared at the possibility of more of the guys she dates to be this bad. Is Sorin the worst?? Goodness I hope so!!! I feel like I want to continue, if she learns from her mistakes. If it’s just 4 more toxic books to find someone like this I’m not about it. So, I don’t know when I’ll read the next. I’m not in a hurry any more. And honestly I’m disappointed.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 14, 2025
The SAGA series=PERFECTED series!!!
This series follows Dani; a girl trying to find herself through her adult life. Dani comes home for the summer from college before studying abroad in Italy and meets, Sorin, “The Townie”. What is supposed to be just a fling; Dani ends up diving head first and falling. Sorin is a charming, tatted, hottie until he starts throwing red flags like a ref! He shows his very territorial and possessive side. Dani sees this; but keeps running head first into the chaos. Things start spiraling for Dani and lines start to blur. She starts losing pieces of herself. Both Sorin and Dani are keeping secrets from each other and that also starts chaos. She’s left to make some big choices that could be life altering.
Dani has a lot of character development through out the story and my heart also broke for her; but at the same time, I was screaming…”RUN, GIRL, RUN!!!”!.
Read your trigger warnings going into this book; it’s twisted and intense in some parts! ‼️ The spice is 10/10! 🌶️🙌🏻♥️🔥 The story line is absolute perfection and will have you not wanting to put the book down! 🙌🏻🫶🏻
Bad boy/Coming of Age/Age Gap/Mafia/Possessive Spicy Romance!! 🖤🌶️❤️🔥
This series follows Dani; a girl trying to find herself through her adult life. Dani comes home for the summer from college before studying abroad in Italy and meets, Sorin, “The Townie”. What is supposed to be just a fling; Dani ends up diving head first and falling. Sorin is a charming, tatted, hottie until he starts throwing red flags like a ref! He shows his very territorial and possessive side. Dani sees this; but keeps running head first into the chaos. Things start spiraling for Dani and lines start to blur. She starts losing pieces of herself. Both Sorin and Dani are keeping secrets from each other and that also starts chaos. She’s left to make some big choices that could be life altering.
Dani has a lot of character development through out the story and my heart also broke for her; but at the same time, I was screaming…”RUN, GIRL, RUN!!!”!.
Read your trigger warnings going into this book; it’s twisted and intense in some parts! ‼️ The spice is 10/10! 🌶️🙌🏻♥️🔥 The story line is absolute perfection and will have you not wanting to put the book down! 🙌🏻🫶🏻
Bad boy/Coming of Age/Age Gap/Mafia/Possessive Spicy Romance!! 🖤🌶️❤️🔥
December 15, 2024
The Townie by Serena Pier had me feeling EVERYTHING! It is the prequel in her Saga series and follows Dani’s relationship with Sorin. You can read this before or after The Renter. I read it after, and I don’t regret it, but if you want Dani’s chronological progression, absolutely read it first. I literally have no complaints.
Dani is your typical 20 year old home from college trying to have some fun. Throughout her summer, she’s in a mental battle herself between right and wrong, and it lead me on an emotional rollercoaster. One second I’m cheering her on and the next I’m wishing I could knock some sense into her. We meet a ton of characters, and I’m really hoping that some of them make an appearance in her other books whether it’s her Saga series, High Five Novellas or any other future books. I DEFINITELY need more Mike!!
This was the book that I needed to get back into full length novels this month. Serena formats her books so that even if it is a full length novel, the chapters are super short. I finished this in a total of 6 hours because of how easy it made it to read.
Dani is your typical 20 year old home from college trying to have some fun. Throughout her summer, she’s in a mental battle herself between right and wrong, and it lead me on an emotional rollercoaster. One second I’m cheering her on and the next I’m wishing I could knock some sense into her. We meet a ton of characters, and I’m really hoping that some of them make an appearance in her other books whether it’s her Saga series, High Five Novellas or any other future books. I DEFINITELY need more Mike!!
This was the book that I needed to get back into full length novels this month. Serena formats her books so that even if it is a full length novel, the chapters are super short. I finished this in a total of 6 hours because of how easy it made it to read.
March 12, 2025
Serena Pier’s The Townie is a dark romance that doesn’t quite fit the usual mold. It follows Dani, who, when returning home for summer break, becomes infatuated with a hot bartender, Sorin—only to realise he’s far more than just the local bad boy. What starts as a summer fling quickly spirals into something much more intense, and Dani finds herself in deeper than she ever intended.
Sorin is a character you can’t look away from—charming in moments, unsettling in others. There’s a certain tenderness to him that makes you want to root for him, but let’s be honest, it’s nowhere near enough to excuse the rest of his… let’s call them complications. The number of times you’ll find yourself asking, WTF?!? and Why is she still here?! is immeasurable. And yet, you keep turning the pages.
Dani’s summer is nothing short of chaotic, but by the end, it feels like she ends up exactly where she’s meant to be. The ride is wild, dark, and addictive, and I cannot wait to see how it all continues in The Renter.
Sorin is a character you can’t look away from—charming in moments, unsettling in others. There’s a certain tenderness to him that makes you want to root for him, but let’s be honest, it’s nowhere near enough to excuse the rest of his… let’s call them complications. The number of times you’ll find yourself asking, WTF?!? and Why is she still here?! is immeasurable. And yet, you keep turning the pages.
Dani’s summer is nothing short of chaotic, but by the end, it feels like she ends up exactly where she’s meant to be. The ride is wild, dark, and addictive, and I cannot wait to see how it all continues in The Renter.
July 19, 2025
I honestly didn't think I was going to read this as fast as I did. There was a lot of "oh Dani🤦🏾♀️" and "So much for Europe😮💨". I could see how she kept getting suckered back into Sorins little web, but at the same time, there were some glaring senerios she glossed over, knowing 100% they were huge red flags to get out!
Dani's "summer fling" flung her into a tornado of chaos! I already knew going in Sorin is going to be the worst and still came out thinking how much of a D bag this guy is! There were definitely some twists in there I didn't see coming that had me screaming. OMG!
I loved the mention of "a little dive bar called high five." It also feels crazy beloved characters from high five live in the same universe as Sorins crusty self.
I do feel like a lot of women end up in real-life situations like Dani's. Especially at a young age when things aren't so black and white yet, and it's too easy to get lost in what may seem like love at first.
This was definitely a page turner! And I can't wait to start The Renter! As soon as I am finished here, I am jumping right in!
Dani's "summer fling" flung her into a tornado of chaos! I already knew going in Sorin is going to be the worst and still came out thinking how much of a D bag this guy is! There were definitely some twists in there I didn't see coming that had me screaming. OMG!
I loved the mention of "a little dive bar called high five." It also feels crazy beloved characters from high five live in the same universe as Sorins crusty self.
I do feel like a lot of women end up in real-life situations like Dani's. Especially at a young age when things aren't so black and white yet, and it's too easy to get lost in what may seem like love at first.
This was definitely a page turner! And I can't wait to start The Renter! As soon as I am finished here, I am jumping right in!
August 12, 2025
✨Check the trigger warnings✨
I am a huge Serena Pier fan.
Her High Five Novella series are some of my all time favorites!
Dani is a college student home for the summer. Her goals are to make enough money to save for Italy, spend time with her friends, and have a summer fling.
However, everything crashes when she meets Sorin.
Sorin is much older, darker, and experienced than anyone Dani has ever been with. She knows she should stay away, but she just can’t.
Soon she’s wrapped up in his insane world and isn’t sure what she wants anymore.
This was amazing but wild read.
I absolutely fell in love with Dani and I loved that we got dual POV.
I cannot recommend Serena Pier enough. She writes some amazing characters. From the main characters to even the side characters- the mannerisms, details, and growth is phenomenal.
It was like watching a story in my head.
I’m very intrigued by the rest of the series and how everything will go together!
4.5 ⭐️ 4.5 🌶️
I am a huge Serena Pier fan.
Her High Five Novella series are some of my all time favorites!
Dani is a college student home for the summer. Her goals are to make enough money to save for Italy, spend time with her friends, and have a summer fling.
However, everything crashes when she meets Sorin.
Sorin is much older, darker, and experienced than anyone Dani has ever been with. She knows she should stay away, but she just can’t.
Soon she’s wrapped up in his insane world and isn’t sure what she wants anymore.
This was amazing but wild read.
I absolutely fell in love with Dani and I loved that we got dual POV.
I cannot recommend Serena Pier enough. She writes some amazing characters. From the main characters to even the side characters- the mannerisms, details, and growth is phenomenal.
It was like watching a story in my head.
I’m very intrigued by the rest of the series and how everything will go together!
4.5 ⭐️ 4.5 🌶️
August 22, 2025
Life lessons
This was totally different then the other books I’ve read by this author and at first I had a hard time getting into it because of that. I read the trigger warnings and while I have no triggers it was hard to seperate this book from the others. Once I did I found that I did enjoy this. The story really made me angry. The fmc Dani is a young beautiful intelligent young lady looking to have fun but what she winds up finding during a summer of fun turns into a mess. The fun she thought she would have shows her some really hard truths and her reality and gets scary. Her relationship with Sorin has her on a wild ride where she does have fun but also learns she is not prepared for the type of fun Sorin is dishing out. He’s way older more experienced with life, women and hiding who is. She on a dangerous path and doesn’t know it. Young and naive at the beginning of summer and you’ll have to read to find out the rest.
This was totally different then the other books I’ve read by this author and at first I had a hard time getting into it because of that. I read the trigger warnings and while I have no triggers it was hard to seperate this book from the others. Once I did I found that I did enjoy this. The story really made me angry. The fmc Dani is a young beautiful intelligent young lady looking to have fun but what she winds up finding during a summer of fun turns into a mess. The fun she thought she would have shows her some really hard truths and her reality and gets scary. Her relationship with Sorin has her on a wild ride where she does have fun but also learns she is not prepared for the type of fun Sorin is dishing out. He’s way older more experienced with life, women and hiding who is. She on a dangerous path and doesn’t know it. Young and naive at the beginning of summer and you’ll have to read to find out the rest.
April 27, 2025
If you want a perfect mix of moto, mafia, age gape, dark romance, possessive, summer fling with a HUGE twist… read this book! All have to say is not only did I read this in one sitting but I absolutely love the representation in this book. I refuse to leave spoilers in reviews but Serena Pier hit the nail on the freaking head and ended this book exactly how I hoped she would! I had multiple moments while reading this where I was kicking my feet, audibly saying “omg” and “wtf” and yelling at our main character Dani as well as other characters through this book. The spice is nothing short of SPICY and she wrote this in a way that you fall just as hard for Sorin (MMC) as Dani (FMC) does and go through all the emotions with her. It’s fun, it’s dark, it’s ALL of the things while simultaneously representing healing, self love, addiction, leaving abuse, etc to a freaking T in the end!
May 12, 2025
This book brings our real life struggles of falling for someone and realizing your life is spirally out of control when it’s too late..
I honestly hated both Dani & Sorin. I kept thinking about how incredibly idiotic Dani was when she repeatedly ignores all of the red flags thrown at her, inevitably sinking deeper into the black hole that is Sorin. But I remember that I once was 20, stuck in a toxic relationship that I didn’t know how to get out of.
Sorin tho? He could kiss my ass LMAO, he was possessive, annoying, controlling & hypocritical. A true narcissist. Which made the story much more realistic.
Thank god for the side characters that helped keep Dani sane from the train wreck that was becoming her life.
I’m curious know what her happy ending is going to be at the end of this series.
I honestly hated both Dani & Sorin. I kept thinking about how incredibly idiotic Dani was when she repeatedly ignores all of the red flags thrown at her, inevitably sinking deeper into the black hole that is Sorin. But I remember that I once was 20, stuck in a toxic relationship that I didn’t know how to get out of.
Sorin tho? He could kiss my ass LMAO, he was possessive, annoying, controlling & hypocritical. A true narcissist. Which made the story much more realistic.
Thank god for the side characters that helped keep Dani sane from the train wreck that was becoming her life.
I’m curious know what her happy ending is going to be at the end of this series.
January 8, 2026
Okay but this book was so good 😍
The fact that this saga follows Dani through her wild ride of men, love, chaos, and danger throughout her twenties already makes it an instant yes for me. That’s honestly reason enough to pick it up. I love a true saga where you stay with the same character as they grow, mess up, fall hard, and keep going—because I never want the story to end.
Dani is messy in the best way, and watching her navigate relationships and life kept me hooked the entire time. I’m already dying to jump into the next book because I need to know where she ends up next… and let’s be real—who her next flavor is going to be 👀
Basically, Dani’s love life is giving Baskin Robbins with all the options 🤩🍦
If you love long-form character journeys, drama, and a FMC who actually lives, this series is absolutely worth the read.
The fact that this saga follows Dani through her wild ride of men, love, chaos, and danger throughout her twenties already makes it an instant yes for me. That’s honestly reason enough to pick it up. I love a true saga where you stay with the same character as they grow, mess up, fall hard, and keep going—because I never want the story to end.
Dani is messy in the best way, and watching her navigate relationships and life kept me hooked the entire time. I’m already dying to jump into the next book because I need to know where she ends up next… and let’s be real—who her next flavor is going to be 👀
Basically, Dani’s love life is giving Baskin Robbins with all the options 🤩🍦
If you love long-form character journeys, drama, and a FMC who actually lives, this series is absolutely worth the read.
May 17, 2025
so twisted about this one
I wanted to love it. Ive have loved each one of the high five novellas and was hoping this would give off similar vibes but with a longer plot, but i found myself really struggling. I hated everything about Soren he was the epitome of a manipulator, and i was so incredibly frustrated with Dani. So many times i wanted to dnf but like driving by a car crash i had to look, such was the disaster of soren and danis relationship,a disastrous crash i couldn’t look away from. Honestly i was more intrigued when Declan made the sene, i would have much rather read about him. Will i continue with the saga? Well…yes I will lol im invested now even if this opening act i was not a fan of.
I wanted to love it. Ive have loved each one of the high five novellas and was hoping this would give off similar vibes but with a longer plot, but i found myself really struggling. I hated everything about Soren he was the epitome of a manipulator, and i was so incredibly frustrated with Dani. So many times i wanted to dnf but like driving by a car crash i had to look, such was the disaster of soren and danis relationship,a disastrous crash i couldn’t look away from. Honestly i was more intrigued when Declan made the sene, i would have much rather read about him. Will i continue with the saga? Well…yes I will lol im invested now even if this opening act i was not a fan of.
December 31, 2025
The Townie left me feeling shattered and sore, like my heart had been cut open and left to slowly heal. This is not a romance—it’s a painful, raw portrayal of craving love from someone who is deeply wrong for you. Sorin is intoxicating and dangerous in equal measure, and Dani’s denial, heartbreak, and eventual awakening feel devastatingly real. This book explores themes of toxic attachment, abuse, and self-destruction without glamorizing them. This book hurt to read, but at the same time the pain was so addictive and sweet; it tells an important story about knowing when love is no longer love—and choosing survival over illusion!
I definitely absolutely am in love with this series and cannot wait to see what Dani’s story will bring!
I definitely absolutely am in love with this series and cannot wait to see what Dani’s story will bring!
September 7, 2024
The Townie is a wild ride. I found myself shouting at my kindle throughout the entire read in response to both Dani and Sorin’s crazy antics. Serena has a way of making you go through ALL the emotions during this rollercoaster of a prequel. I had the privilege of reading the full length versions of The Renter and The Client before reading The Townie so I was prepared for what to expect in this book (trigger warning, The Townie is not for the faint of heart). I loved reading this book in an unconventional order. This book is the catalyst for future Dani’s behavior, thought process, and growth. I definitely recommend this prequel/series if you’re a toxic romance reader (and honestly, we all love a little toxicity!) Oh, and the smut is on point!
October 27, 2024
Mind the menu, because topics in this book may be too much for some. Not many books trigger me, but this is the 2nd that has. The emotional abuse, the gaslighting, manipulation, and physical abuse hits very close to home. I felt for dani, tho, as i read i picked out every red flag and wanted to smack her. But, I have been through my own, and i get how she felt trapped. I loved the ending, and can't wait to ARC read the next book <3 the smut was smutting, but as you read, you realize his true intentions.
"Then I got deeper and deeper, and felt like I couldn't get out." - I felt this with every fiber of my soul.
"Then I got deeper and deeper, and felt like I couldn't get out." - I felt this with every fiber of my soul.
February 23, 2025
Dark, Unhinged, Super Spicy, Toxic Relationship Rollercoaster🖤🌶️🎢
The Townie is the prequel in the SAGA series. This book follows our FMC Dani as she navigates what she wants out of her life. What starts as a hot summer fling quickly morphs into a scary toxic relationship. We are also introduced to a second MC in this book who I adore!🔥⛔️
I highly enjoyed this book & will be reading all upcoming books in this series. If you are looking for a fast-paced, super spicy, unhinged wild ride with a laundry list of trigger warnings; The Townie is for you!🌶️⛓️🖤
Several heavy topics are covered in this story so be sure to check your trigger warnings!⚠️
The Townie is the prequel in the SAGA series. This book follows our FMC Dani as she navigates what she wants out of her life. What starts as a hot summer fling quickly morphs into a scary toxic relationship. We are also introduced to a second MC in this book who I adore!🔥⛔️
I highly enjoyed this book & will be reading all upcoming books in this series. If you are looking for a fast-paced, super spicy, unhinged wild ride with a laundry list of trigger warnings; The Townie is for you!🌶️⛓️🖤
Several heavy topics are covered in this story so be sure to check your trigger warnings!⚠️
January 19, 2025
This is a new adult coming age of story that follows Dani, a 20 year old college student who is back home under her parent’s roof for the summer. All of her plans get side tracked when she falls for Mr.Wrong, This is a realistic coming of age story and Dani is a very relatable character. This book isn’t all sunshine and rainbows, this is an age gap dark romance. There are a lot of sensitive subjects. (Please be mindful of the trigger warnings) I couldn’t put this book down and immediately started THE RENTER because I had to know what happens next.
August 20, 2025
This series is something I wasn't even expecting. In the SAGA Series you follow a FMC Dani as she navigates love as she navigates life. In the Townie you are getting a dark steamy romance that doesn't necessary end in HEA. You get a dark and adrenaline fueled read, where its not about safety its about messy reckless choices with a morally gray MMC Sorin. Remember this is a group of Stand Alone stories all about Dani Somers relationships into finding her Love of her life. Follow along with Book 1 The Renter, Book 2 the Client, and Book 3 the Reporter!
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