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Onyx: A Fast-Paced Enemies-to-Lovers Military Suspense Novella
🔥 She was never his problem. Now, he can’t walk away. 🔥
Emma thought she had escaped him.
After surviving a violent relationship, she’s rebuilt her life—cold, guarded, and untouchable. But when her dangerous ex resurfaces, she has no choice but to seek help from the one man she swore she’d never need again—Onyx.
Onyx doesn’t do second chances.
The military operative knows better than to get involved with someone like Emma—stubborn, maddeningly beautiful, and impossible to ignore. He’s already pulled her out of danger once, when a science expedition in Romania went south. But now, protecting her means staying dangerously close, and the walls between them aren’t just crumbling—they’re about to collapse.
Emma’s past is coming for her. Onyx swore he wouldn’t get involved. But when the fight turns personal, will he risk everything to keep her safe?
💥 High heat. High stakes. Explosive chemistry. 💥
📌 Content This novella contains themes of domestic violence and intense fight scenes. Reader discretion is advised.
✔️ A fast, steamy romantic suspense you can devour in 2-3 hours!
✔️ Grumpy, brooding military operative
✔️ Fierce, resilient heroine
✔️ Forced Proximity & Second Chance Vibes
✔️ Protective Alpha Hero
Emma thought she had escaped him.
After surviving a violent relationship, she’s rebuilt her life—cold, guarded, and untouchable. But when her dangerous ex resurfaces, she has no choice but to seek help from the one man she swore she’d never need again—Onyx.
Onyx doesn’t do second chances.
The military operative knows better than to get involved with someone like Emma—stubborn, maddeningly beautiful, and impossible to ignore. He’s already pulled her out of danger once, when a science expedition in Romania went south. But now, protecting her means staying dangerously close, and the walls between them aren’t just crumbling—they’re about to collapse.
Emma’s past is coming for her. Onyx swore he wouldn’t get involved. But when the fight turns personal, will he risk everything to keep her safe?
💥 High heat. High stakes. Explosive chemistry. 💥
📌 Content This novella contains themes of domestic violence and intense fight scenes. Reader discretion is advised.
✔️ A fast, steamy romantic suspense you can devour in 2-3 hours!
✔️ Grumpy, brooding military operative
✔️ Fierce, resilient heroine
✔️ Forced Proximity & Second Chance Vibes
✔️ Protective Alpha Hero
124 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 14, 2024
11 people want to read
About the author
Ursula Chang
5 books11 followersHi from the UK! I'm a mother of two and love reading and writing romance. Thanks for popping by!
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
December 15, 2024
This was a well-written and fast-paced story as two people bicker over her protection. The story is entertaining and there is never a dull moment. There is a history that I love between the two, they had met previously and couldn't get along. There were reasons which come to light now but they had a strong connection that both would deny.
She needed him and wouldn't ask for him, but her friend's husband would. Arriving to protect the woman he just bickered with constantly was a chore but he'd do it. Then he realized there was a reason for her attitude.
I felt for her, what a tense life to have been leading, feeling what she did. Her strength is wonderful and thank goodness these two were clever to stop this scary past that came back for her. I do wish there was more romance in a way, I believe the love but I wish there was a discussion about it because the banter-which I loved!- was wonderful! But then the period after was a little too quick. These two are so good together! This is sexy but nothing that isn't safe for work. This was exciting and fast-paced and these two had a lot of chemistry! The banter as I've mentioned, so good! And the inclusion of their friends I loved as well. I am hoping I there's a book coming between his sister and his friend! A great read!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
She needed him and wouldn't ask for him, but her friend's husband would. Arriving to protect the woman he just bickered with constantly was a chore but he'd do it. Then he realized there was a reason for her attitude.
I felt for her, what a tense life to have been leading, feeling what she did. Her strength is wonderful and thank goodness these two were clever to stop this scary past that came back for her. I do wish there was more romance in a way, I believe the love but I wish there was a discussion about it because the banter-which I loved!- was wonderful! But then the period after was a little too quick. These two are so good together! This is sexy but nothing that isn't safe for work. This was exciting and fast-paced and these two had a lot of chemistry! The banter as I've mentioned, so good! And the inclusion of their friends I loved as well. I am hoping I there's a book coming between his sister and his friend! A great read!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 18, 2024
When things are not as they appear, you may feel like a fool for thinking the worst. However, what is someone to think when the worst is all someone will let you see of them? When Onyx is assigned to bodyguard Emma, he hates the idea. After their time in Romania where she was nothing but a pain and almost got them all killed, he had his fill of her. So little by little he starts to see Emma differently. Then when he puts the pieces together - he can't help but stand by her and guard her with his life.
Action packed. Humor thrown in. Amazing chemistry between characters.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Action packed. Humor thrown in. Amazing chemistry between characters.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 15, 2024
This is intense and fast-paced. Emma is at work in Hong Kong and keeps feeling that she is in danger. So, Onyx is sent to protect her. The guy she fought with at every turn the last time they were together on a mission. But things are not always the way they seem. This is true for Emma and Onyx. I enjoyed this book so much. I was hooked from the first page to the last.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 7, 2026
not bad, but not good either
Following on from the first book in the series, I was hoping for more character development, but it just didn’t happen. The ex is called Lucas in the epilogue of book 1, but not a Lucas to be found.
Extremely minor characters referenced in this epilogue - so much so I had to search Kindle to find out who they were.
If you want a quick book, this is your jam.
Following on from the first book in the series, I was hoping for more character development, but it just didn’t happen. The ex is called Lucas in the epilogue of book 1, but not a Lucas to be found.
Extremely minor characters referenced in this epilogue - so much so I had to search Kindle to find out who they were.
If you want a quick book, this is your jam.
December 1, 2024
Emma and Onyx met a year ago when he was trying to protect her and she was too stubborn to let him. Now she's in danger again, and he's the only one who can help.
My only issue is that this book was somewhat repetitive.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
My only issue is that this book was somewhat repetitive.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 1, 2024
A fast paced short story where Onyx is called in to provide security for Emma. A powerful abusive boyfriend is causing problems but he is up against Onyx and the team.
I enjoyed the way the story switched between Emma’s pov and Onyx’s. It showed their different outlook from the same events.
A good read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I enjoyed the way the story switched between Emma’s pov and Onyx’s. It showed their different outlook from the same events.
A good read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 20, 2024
This is an entertaining military romance book that holds your attention from beginning to end. The storyline is intriguing and dramatic. The characters are well written with steamy chemistry. I enjoyed this book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 1, 2024
I really enjoyed this fast paced book and enjoyed Emma and Onyx's story. Read it in one evening. First time reading a book by Ursula Chang.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 13, 2024
Felt like I was reading a movie. It was so fast paced and gripping. I ate it up. Onyx and Emma will stay with me for a long time. Read this!!!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 14, 2024
Great action and characters for a short read. There were a couple of points that had me confused in the change of scene, but overall, I will happily read more in the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 14, 2024
Onyx was there again when Emma’s life was in danger. His protective instincts were high and their attraction to each other grew with the more time they spent together. Love how strong and resilient Emma.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 17, 2024
Intense and fast paced is this story by Ms Chang. The far east is it's backdrop for this second chance story between Emma and Onyx. Good short read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 26, 2024
Emma and Onyx have some history between them, so he's the only one she wants when things turn sideways for her. A steamy read with a military trained man providing protection for his woman. A great read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 13, 2024
I really enjoyed the story's dual POV. Those are always a hit for me. It was on the lower spicy side, at least for me, but overall, it was an enjoyable read.
December 13, 2024
I loved the relationship between Emma and Onyx! I also loved that the author allowed Emma to be able to take care of herself without always needing help from the main love interest (Onyx).
December 18, 2024
He’s the ultimate protector and she’s determined to do things her way and pursue her career, only her past has a way of catching up to her. Working alone at a university, Emma can’t shake the feeling of being followed or watched, but doesn’t want to worry anyone. Onyx gets a call he can’t refuse, check in on the infuriating woman he can’t quite forget and do some digging into her past and the rescue mission that started it all. Sparks fly and they can’t deny their feelings or that her paranoia is warranted when her shady ex shows up. Onxy will do anything to protect her, if only she will let him.
February 19, 2025
Onyx by Ursula Chang (Book Review)
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Ever since reading Spectre last year I wanted to read Emma and Onyx's story...that damn old married couple comment stuck in my head lol. This story was fast paced with good chemistry between the main characters and an interesting storyline.
*military suspense romance
*enemies to lovers
*fast paced
*quick read
I hope to see more from this series in the future...possibly with Sophia and Hunter?😌
Check TW's before reading
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Ever since reading Spectre last year I wanted to read Emma and Onyx's story...that damn old married couple comment stuck in my head lol. This story was fast paced with good chemistry between the main characters and an interesting storyline.
*military suspense romance
*enemies to lovers
*fast paced
*quick read
I hope to see more from this series in the future...possibly with Sophia and Hunter?😌
Check TW's before reading
September 12, 2025
NOT an ARC review: This was definitely an interesting read. Maybe not my favorite, but I needed a military book for a book club bingo square, and as July 2025 is almost over, I decided to choose a quick novella. Onyx was oddly recommended by an AI program search I did to winnow down my options for a military novella. When I found it on Kindle Unlimited, I expected a higher read/review count due to the recommendation, but no... Strange.
Anyway, back to the book review: There were issues, such as grammatical and tense mistakes, especially at the beginning, but once I forced myself to look past those, it was okay. I was proud of myself for understanding some of the Arabic without the help of the inline translations. The spice didn't kick in until about the last 80% and was extremely lackluster. I was disappointed after all the buildup.
I did find Emma's reason for not wanting Onyx around to be a good plot choice, and the scenes that followed were highly engaging and action-packed because of it.
Overall, I recommend this novella for a quick read to pass the time or to fit a project, as I did. Don't go into it looking for spice, but if you can get past the writing issues, it's fun.
Anyway, back to the book review: There were issues, such as grammatical and tense mistakes, especially at the beginning, but once I forced myself to look past those, it was okay. I was proud of myself for understanding some of the Arabic without the help of the inline translations. The spice didn't kick in until about the last 80% and was extremely lackluster. I was disappointed after all the buildup.
I did find Emma's reason for not wanting Onyx around to be a good plot choice, and the scenes that followed were highly engaging and action-packed because of it.
Overall, I recommend this novella for a quick read to pass the time or to fit a project, as I did. Don't go into it looking for spice, but if you can get past the writing issues, it's fun.
April 22, 2025
What to Expect:
🖤 Alpha MMC
🖤 FMC in STEM
🖤 Military Suspense Romance
Please be sure to read the content warnings in the author’s note. This novella includes themes and depictions of domestic violence, emotional trauma, and fight scenes.
Ursula Chang's Onyx was my first dive into her writing, and this short novella packed a lot of potential! The story follows Emma and Onyx, whose paths crossed a year ago when his team was tasked with rescuing and protecting Emma and her colleague Eliza.
Emma is a survivor of a deeply traumatic relationship, leaving her fiercely independent, stubborn, and understandably cautious around men—including Onyx. Onyx, the ultimate alpha male, is headstrong and commanding, which initially clashed with Emma’s personality. His early misconceptions about her created tension that lingered for a year, keeping them at odds when they met again.
Watching Onyx learn to understand Emma and seeing their relationship shift was a highlight of the story. Their evolving dynamic was heartwarming, even if the ending felt a bit rushed.
Overall, this was an enjoyable read, and it left me intrigued about the rest of the series—especially Spectre’s story, which I can’t wait to check out!
Thank you to the author, Ursula Chang, and Booksprout for the ARC opportunity.
🖤 Alpha MMC
🖤 FMC in STEM
🖤 Military Suspense Romance
Please be sure to read the content warnings in the author’s note. This novella includes themes and depictions of domestic violence, emotional trauma, and fight scenes.
Ursula Chang's Onyx was my first dive into her writing, and this short novella packed a lot of potential! The story follows Emma and Onyx, whose paths crossed a year ago when his team was tasked with rescuing and protecting Emma and her colleague Eliza.
Emma is a survivor of a deeply traumatic relationship, leaving her fiercely independent, stubborn, and understandably cautious around men—including Onyx. Onyx, the ultimate alpha male, is headstrong and commanding, which initially clashed with Emma’s personality. His early misconceptions about her created tension that lingered for a year, keeping them at odds when they met again.
Watching Onyx learn to understand Emma and seeing their relationship shift was a highlight of the story. Their evolving dynamic was heartwarming, even if the ending felt a bit rushed.
Overall, this was an enjoyable read, and it left me intrigued about the rest of the series—especially Spectre’s story, which I can’t wait to check out!
Thank you to the author, Ursula Chang, and Booksprout for the ARC opportunity.
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews