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Amber Ridge #1
Unafraid
A new town. A fresh start. An old enemy.
Aspen Davies had three reasons to move to the small town of Amber to get away from her overbearing mother; to escape the clutches of her psychotic ex; and Jesse Hayes. Okay, maybe Jesse isn’t a reason to relocate her entire life. After all, he’s just a friend. A housemate. And someone she absolutely is not going to date. At least…that’s what she keeps telling herself.
Discharged from the military, Jesse Hayes is back in his hometown of Amber Ridge. Only, he’s not alone, as he expected. His new housemate is right down the hall, and every day with Aspen is a new form of torture. She just got out of a relationship, and she’s not looking to get into a new one. He knows that. Doesn’t make wanting her any easier. He needs to keep his distance, for both their sakes.
But when Aspen’s past follows her to her new home, keeping his distance is no longer an option. Jesse needs to keep Aspen safe and in his sights. Because the enemy is proving formidable—and clearly playing for keeps.
A Small Town, Friends to Lovers, Romantic Suspense from Bestselling author Nyssa Kathryn.
Aspen Davies had three reasons to move to the small town of Amber to get away from her overbearing mother; to escape the clutches of her psychotic ex; and Jesse Hayes. Okay, maybe Jesse isn’t a reason to relocate her entire life. After all, he’s just a friend. A housemate. And someone she absolutely is not going to date. At least…that’s what she keeps telling herself.
Discharged from the military, Jesse Hayes is back in his hometown of Amber Ridge. Only, he’s not alone, as he expected. His new housemate is right down the hall, and every day with Aspen is a new form of torture. She just got out of a relationship, and she’s not looking to get into a new one. He knows that. Doesn’t make wanting her any easier. He needs to keep his distance, for both their sakes.
But when Aspen’s past follows her to her new home, keeping his distance is no longer an option. Jesse needs to keep Aspen safe and in his sights. Because the enemy is proving formidable—and clearly playing for keeps.
A Small Town, Friends to Lovers, Romantic Suspense from Bestselling author Nyssa Kathryn.
300 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 7, 2025
1219 people are currently reading
724 people want to read
About the author
Nyssa Kathryn
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Australian Romantic Suspense Author, Nyssa Kathryn, is a passionate reader and writer of all things romance. Living in South Australia with her hubby and daughter, when she's not spending time with the family, she's either plotting her next story or got her head stuck in a book.
Follow Nyssa here:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nyssakathrynauthor
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https://www.nyssakathryn.com/vip-newsletter
Australian Romantic Suspense Author, Nyssa Kathryn, is a passionate reader and writer of all things romance. Living in South Australia with her hubby and daughter, when she's not spending time with the family, she's either plotting her next story or got her head stuck in a book.
Follow Nyssa here:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nyssakathrynauthor
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authornyssakathryn/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 192 reviews
March 1, 2025
Unafraid: A Small Town, Friends to Lovers, Romantic Suspense and book one in the new series by Nyssa Kathryn. Aspen Davies decided to move from her hometown of Misty Peak to the small town of Amber Ridge to get away from her mentally ill mother and her violent boyfriend. Ex-Military, now sheriff of Amber Ridge, Jesse Hayes, gave her sanctuary in his home. Will moving to Amber Ridge give Aspen a new start, or will her past follow her? The readers of Unafraid will continue to follow Aspen and Jesse to discover what happens.
I looked forward to reading this new series, and Unafraid did not disappoint. I enjoy how Nyssa Kathryn highlights social issues and how they can affect communities. I also want her writing style, which ensures I engage with her characters and stories from the first page. I love Nyssa Kathryn's portrayal of her characters and their interaction with each other throughout this book. Unafraid was well-written and researched by Nyssa Kathryn. I enjoyed Nyssa Kathryn's description of the settings of Unafraid, which ensured that I imagine being part of the book's plot.
Thank you to the author for my ARC exchange for honest review. I recommend this book.
I looked forward to reading this new series, and Unafraid did not disappoint. I enjoy how Nyssa Kathryn highlights social issues and how they can affect communities. I also want her writing style, which ensures I engage with her characters and stories from the first page. I love Nyssa Kathryn's portrayal of her characters and their interaction with each other throughout this book. Unafraid was well-written and researched by Nyssa Kathryn. I enjoyed Nyssa Kathryn's description of the settings of Unafraid, which ensured that I imagine being part of the book's plot.
Thank you to the author for my ARC exchange for honest review. I recommend this book.
August 19, 2025
After just reading a couple of small town romances I was in the mood for ‘more of the same’ and saw this one was recommended. I’m glad I decided to give it a go! It’s my absolute favorite when romance is mixed with suspense, especially if we get some damsel in distress moments. And this book definitely delivers on that front! I also love that our H was all in from the beginning of the book and had to chase h. He did everything he could to make her his. h was a bit TSTL sometimes, but hey, it made for an entertaining read. Was it realistic? No. Was it good escapism, heck yes! Throw in some lovable side characters and some hot spice and I’m a happy girl. I’ll be looking into more of this author’s work!
Safety:
- OW: a friend of H sets him up on a blind date, but didn’t tell H. H thought he was meeting the (male) friend, but he never showed and he was stuck with the girl…of course h walks in right then and sees them. H tells her right away it’s not a date and offers to drive h home. h doesn’t believe him and causes a bit of tension between MCs.
- OM: h’s ex wants her back. He is very persistent. Gets dealt with in the end.
- no cheating
- No separation
Safety:
- OW: a friend of H sets him up on a blind date, but didn’t tell H. H thought he was meeting the (male) friend, but he never showed and he was stuck with the girl…of course h walks in right then and sees them. H tells her right away it’s not a date and offers to drive h home. h doesn’t believe him and causes a bit of tension between MCs.
- OM: h’s ex wants her back. He is very persistent. Gets dealt with in the end.
- no cheating
- No separation
March 8, 2025
Book Review: Unafraid by Nyssa Kathryn
We dive headfirst into Unafraid with Aspen having a classic overthinking meltdown, setting the stage for her anxious, self-doubting mindset..
💔 Aspen’s Past & The Toxicity in Her Life
Her mother? Horrible human. Zero support, zero warmth. No wonder Aspen’s struggling to write. Add in her history with Dylan—domestic violence, manipulation—and suddenly, her self-doubt makes total sense. It’s heartbreaking, but also gives her character real depth.
🖤 Jesse: A Giant Cinnamon Roll
Let’s talk Jesse. Big. Strong. Protective. The ultimate cinnamon roll wrapped in sheriff gear. I love when a man throws me around a little (fictionally, of course), and Jesse delivers. He’s patient with Aspen, giving her space while also making it clear that he’s there for her. That blind date Luke set up for him? Absolutely unnecessary. Luke, what are you doing?! Worst friend ever!
🔥 The Spice… Rushed but Great
The spicy scenes??Definitely rushed. I wanted more tension, more build-up. But once it got going, it was great. The chemistry is there, even if I wish it had been drawn out a bit longer.
🏡 Forgiveness… or Just Toxic?
Aspen just accepting her mother toward the end? I get it—you don’t want a completely unhappy ending. But personally, I found it unrealistic for someone who handed the toxic ex and contributed to one’s poor mental health and refused help.. was this reaction real?. Some relationships don’t deserve reconciliation, and this one felt too toxic to wrap up with a neat bow IMO
🏃♀️ Pacing & Final Thoughts
This book could have been at least 50 pages shorter and still had the same emotional impact. The story flows well, and the characters are distinct, but some paragraphs felt overly detailed—I found myself skimming more than I wanted to. Becket and Sky? I loved them. Honestly, I’m more excited for book two because of them.
Overall, Unafraid is a solid 4⭐️ read with strong characters and emotional depth
If you love protective heroes and self-discovery this one’s worth picking up!
📚 Will I be reading book two? Absolutely.
We dive headfirst into Unafraid with Aspen having a classic overthinking meltdown, setting the stage for her anxious, self-doubting mindset..
💔 Aspen’s Past & The Toxicity in Her Life
Her mother? Horrible human. Zero support, zero warmth. No wonder Aspen’s struggling to write. Add in her history with Dylan—domestic violence, manipulation—and suddenly, her self-doubt makes total sense. It’s heartbreaking, but also gives her character real depth.
🖤 Jesse: A Giant Cinnamon Roll
Let’s talk Jesse. Big. Strong. Protective. The ultimate cinnamon roll wrapped in sheriff gear. I love when a man throws me around a little (fictionally, of course), and Jesse delivers. He’s patient with Aspen, giving her space while also making it clear that he’s there for her. That blind date Luke set up for him? Absolutely unnecessary. Luke, what are you doing?! Worst friend ever!
🔥 The Spice… Rushed but Great
The spicy scenes??Definitely rushed. I wanted more tension, more build-up. But once it got going, it was great. The chemistry is there, even if I wish it had been drawn out a bit longer.
🏡 Forgiveness… or Just Toxic?
Aspen just accepting her mother toward the end? I get it—you don’t want a completely unhappy ending. But personally, I found it unrealistic for someone who handed the toxic ex and contributed to one’s poor mental health and refused help.. was this reaction real?. Some relationships don’t deserve reconciliation, and this one felt too toxic to wrap up with a neat bow IMO
🏃♀️ Pacing & Final Thoughts
This book could have been at least 50 pages shorter and still had the same emotional impact. The story flows well, and the characters are distinct, but some paragraphs felt overly detailed—I found myself skimming more than I wanted to. Becket and Sky? I loved them. Honestly, I’m more excited for book two because of them.
Overall, Unafraid is a solid 4⭐️ read with strong characters and emotional depth
If you love protective heroes and self-discovery this one’s worth picking up!
📚 Will I be reading book two? Absolutely.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 24, 2025
I felt the story started out great --really strong.
Then I became... confused. It could just be me.
Between Jesse, Beckett, Holden, and even Lock (though he wasn't physically there) how were they not able to keep Aspen safe? I couldn't understand how not one of them, all being former Special Ops, weren't able to figure anything out. None of them had any real theories other than, "it's Dylan."
How did none of them, especially Jesse, not interrogate Aspen's mom (Karen) the first time he's been called out to the Airbnb? There were red flags everywhere.
I will say that I ended up loving Aspen's character.
She was strong but not overly so that it was annoying. I also liked the way that she stood up for herself and those (even strangers) that she felt needed standing up for. I also loved that she was a fighter. She didn't intend to go down quietly if it came to that.
I also loved Jesse's character and the way that he loved Aspen. He was faithful, kind, understanding, patient, and perhaps a little borderline obsessed, but in a good way. And although he was all these things, he was also no nonsense when it came to protesting her. His intentions to protect and cherish her were noble. I just struggled with his special ops/military background turned Sherriff because it seems none of his years of training kicked in to keep Aspen safe.
I don't want to add any additional spoilers than needed in order to justify my 3 star rating so I'll stop here.
I'll end by stating that although I almost DNF'ed this book (it's why it took me so long to get through it) I'm glad I made it to the end because I do love a good HEA!
Then I became... confused. It could just be me.
Between Jesse, Beckett, Holden, and even Lock (though he wasn't physically there) how were they not able to keep Aspen safe? I couldn't understand how not one of them, all being former Special Ops, weren't able to figure anything out. None of them had any real theories other than, "it's Dylan."
How did none of them, especially Jesse, not interrogate Aspen's mom (Karen) the first time he's been called out to the Airbnb? There were red flags everywhere.
I will say that I ended up loving Aspen's character.
She was strong but not overly so that it was annoying. I also liked the way that she stood up for herself and those (even strangers) that she felt needed standing up for. I also loved that she was a fighter. She didn't intend to go down quietly if it came to that.
I also loved Jesse's character and the way that he loved Aspen. He was faithful, kind, understanding, patient, and perhaps a little borderline obsessed, but in a good way. And although he was all these things, he was also no nonsense when it came to protesting her. His intentions to protect and cherish her were noble. I just struggled with his special ops/military background turned Sherriff because it seems none of his years of training kicked in to keep Aspen safe.
I don't want to add any additional spoilers than needed in order to justify my 3 star rating so I'll stop here.
I'll end by stating that although I almost DNF'ed this book (it's why it took me so long to get through it) I'm glad I made it to the end because I do love a good HEA!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 20, 2025
This book was fantastic! I’m a sucker for small town romances, and Unafraid delivered that cozy vibe plus a gripping thriller element that kept me hooked. Aspen’s story—escaping an abusive ex and dealing with a mother who doesn’t understand boundaries—was intense, emotional, and so well written.
I was lucky enough to receive this as an ARC (thank you!), and although life and a cyclone delayed me finishing it on time (so sorry!), once I picked it up properly, I flew through it in two days and absolutely loved it!
I was lucky enough to receive this as an ARC (thank you!), and although life and a cyclone delayed me finishing it on time (so sorry!), once I picked it up properly, I flew through it in two days and absolutely loved it!
March 6, 2025
What a fantastic start to a new series! This talented author kicks things off in Amber Ridge with a story that’s equal parts romance, suspense, and heart.
Aspen Davies, a romance writer in need of a fresh start, finds herself in Amber Ridge—far away from her troubled past and right in the middle of a new chapter. Renting a room from Jesse Hayes, an old friend and the town’s sheriff, she hopes to rebuild her life, free from her unstable mother and abusive ex. But just as things start looking up, her past comes crashing back into her world, threatening everything she’s worked for—including the budding connection between her and Jesse.
Jesse, a former Special Forces operative turned small-town sheriff, is no stranger to danger. But when Aspen’s troubles follow her to Amber Ridge, he realizes keeping her safe might be his toughest mission yet. This book is a real page-turner with twists, turns, and a mystery that keeps you guessing. The main and supporting characters are well-developed, and the suspense will have you hooked until the very end.
While I’ve loved the author’s Mercy Ring and Project Arma series, this new one is shaping up to be just as gripping.
Aspen Davies, a romance writer in need of a fresh start, finds herself in Amber Ridge—far away from her troubled past and right in the middle of a new chapter. Renting a room from Jesse Hayes, an old friend and the town’s sheriff, she hopes to rebuild her life, free from her unstable mother and abusive ex. But just as things start looking up, her past comes crashing back into her world, threatening everything she’s worked for—including the budding connection between her and Jesse.
Jesse, a former Special Forces operative turned small-town sheriff, is no stranger to danger. But when Aspen’s troubles follow her to Amber Ridge, he realizes keeping her safe might be his toughest mission yet. This book is a real page-turner with twists, turns, and a mystery that keeps you guessing. The main and supporting characters are well-developed, and the suspense will have you hooked until the very end.
While I’ve loved the author’s Mercy Ring and Project Arma series, this new one is shaping up to be just as gripping.
March 4, 2025
This talented author delivers a winner in this first book of her new series Amber Ridge.
Aspen Davies , a romance author, needs a new start so what better place to go than to Amber Ridge. A place where she can get away from her emotionally and mentally unstable mother, an abusive ex, and a chance to maybe strengthen a friendship with Jesse Hayes, from whom she is renting a room.
Jesse is back home after his career in the military in the Special Forces, spent mostly as a Ghost. Nowadays, he’s the sheriff in town.
As the friendship between these two continues to progress , a future might be waiting for them. But Aspen’s past invades that possibility when her ex and her mother come to town making her life a nightmare.
Is it only her ex that is after her, or is someone else involved in this turn of events?
From the start, the story is engaging, the main characters as well as the secondary ones are well developed, and the suspense has one guessing who is responsible for the chaos. Will they succeed in destroying all that Aspen has been hoping for her future?
Though I am partial to the author’s Mercy Ring and Project Arma series, this latest one is sure to be another winner. I was entrusted a copy of this book as well as the audiobook version. Both wonderful versions. Especially the audiobook in which the narrators Lucy Rivers and Connor Crais bring the story to life. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
Aspen Davies , a romance author, needs a new start so what better place to go than to Amber Ridge. A place where she can get away from her emotionally and mentally unstable mother, an abusive ex, and a chance to maybe strengthen a friendship with Jesse Hayes, from whom she is renting a room.
Jesse is back home after his career in the military in the Special Forces, spent mostly as a Ghost. Nowadays, he’s the sheriff in town.
As the friendship between these two continues to progress , a future might be waiting for them. But Aspen’s past invades that possibility when her ex and her mother come to town making her life a nightmare.
Is it only her ex that is after her, or is someone else involved in this turn of events?
From the start, the story is engaging, the main characters as well as the secondary ones are well developed, and the suspense has one guessing who is responsible for the chaos. Will they succeed in destroying all that Aspen has been hoping for her future?
Though I am partial to the author’s Mercy Ring and Project Arma series, this latest one is sure to be another winner. I was entrusted a copy of this book as well as the audiobook version. Both wonderful versions. Especially the audiobook in which the narrators Lucy Rivers and Connor Crais bring the story to life. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
September 22, 2025
2.5 Stars- Unafraid is Aspen's new beginning. It is her story with Jesse.
This book uses the third person in chapters outside of conversation. I prefer first person. I would have preferred the author title each chapter with either Jesse or Aspen's name, as the narrator, the first person, for that chapter. It sounds more realistic and personable.
On the third page, it says that Jesse is 6'4". The man chosen for the cover of the book is not close to that height. Taller than Aspen, yes, but muscular and a little stocky. Maybe he is standing on a small crate or box. I bitch about cover photos regularly, about they too often do not match the character description provided within the pages.
Regardless of where someone currently resides, that may not be their permanent address and there could be multiple people with the same name. Running someone in NCIC or a similar local or state crime database to check for warrants and previous involvements, requires a middle name and date of birth. John Smith, for example, is not sufficient.
It is not the job of law enforcement to fix someone's internet. This would never happen.
“I’ve crashed a few of the Davies family holidays.” “It’s not crashing if you’re invited,” Jesse corrected.
Davies is Aspen's last name. Hayes is Jesse's last name. It should read "...the Hayes family..."
One does not need to have been on the same Ghost Ops team to figure certain things out. Even civilians can draw obvious conclusions, sheriff. And when two people are enroute to a call, both will know the address and nature of the call in advance. A sheriff would never have a 'sure enough' moment regarding location. And normally, unless one is training, it is one person per car. Further, video evidence is not sent person to person, by email or text. Jesse would not need it sent to him. He would login to the evidence database/website used by the department, type in the case number, and review it.
This book uses the third person in chapters outside of conversation. I prefer first person. I would have preferred the author title each chapter with either Jesse or Aspen's name, as the narrator, the first person, for that chapter. It sounds more realistic and personable.
On the third page, it says that Jesse is 6'4". The man chosen for the cover of the book is not close to that height. Taller than Aspen, yes, but muscular and a little stocky. Maybe he is standing on a small crate or box. I bitch about cover photos regularly, about they too often do not match the character description provided within the pages.
Regardless of where someone currently resides, that may not be their permanent address and there could be multiple people with the same name. Running someone in NCIC or a similar local or state crime database to check for warrants and previous involvements, requires a middle name and date of birth. John Smith, for example, is not sufficient.
It is not the job of law enforcement to fix someone's internet. This would never happen.
“I’ve crashed a few of the Davies family holidays.” “It’s not crashing if you’re invited,” Jesse corrected.
Davies is Aspen's last name. Hayes is Jesse's last name. It should read "...the Hayes family..."
One does not need to have been on the same Ghost Ops team to figure certain things out. Even civilians can draw obvious conclusions, sheriff. And when two people are enroute to a call, both will know the address and nature of the call in advance. A sheriff would never have a 'sure enough' moment regarding location. And normally, unless one is training, it is one person per car. Further, video evidence is not sent person to person, by email or text. Jesse would not need it sent to him. He would login to the evidence database/website used by the department, type in the case number, and review it.
February 22, 2025
I just finished this book, and I already want to know Sky’s story as soon as possible! That’s how much this series grabbed me. No lie. I need more, preferably now.
If you’ve read this author before, you know Aspen and Jesse. If you haven’t, you still won’t be lost. You might want to go back after the fact that start at the very beginning though. Not because you need to, but because you’ll find that you truly want to.
Anyway, back to Jesse and Aspen. They’re friends. Roommates. And wishing they could be more, even if they’re both afraid to say it. But once the danger and the annoyance of someone who is incredibly unwelcome come to town, Jesse’s done hiding his feelings. He wants Aspen and he needs her to know it. So these two take you from yearning to WOW, all while solving the town’s coffee dilemma, nurturing friendships and relationships left and right, falling in love, and saving both themselves and each other.
Honestly, I can’t wait for more of this series. It’s an instant hit for me and I’m impatiently awaiting the next couple.
If you’ve read this author before, you know Aspen and Jesse. If you haven’t, you still won’t be lost. You might want to go back after the fact that start at the very beginning though. Not because you need to, but because you’ll find that you truly want to.
Anyway, back to Jesse and Aspen. They’re friends. Roommates. And wishing they could be more, even if they’re both afraid to say it. But once the danger and the annoyance of someone who is incredibly unwelcome come to town, Jesse’s done hiding his feelings. He wants Aspen and he needs her to know it. So these two take you from yearning to WOW, all while solving the town’s coffee dilemma, nurturing friendships and relationships left and right, falling in love, and saving both themselves and each other.
Honestly, I can’t wait for more of this series. It’s an instant hit for me and I’m impatiently awaiting the next couple.
March 7, 2025
Amber Falls!
A new town and a new set of hunky ex military men. We met these two in the last book and they made a great impression. Now we get to fall in love with them all over again.
Aspen Davies left her home to start a new life.
Jesse Hayes is the new sheriff. A new job and a beautiful roommate.
This small town romance is jam packed with suspense and just the right amount of danger to keep those pages flying. I can already tell this new series is going to be a romantic suspense lovers delight.
A new town and a new set of hunky ex military men. We met these two in the last book and they made a great impression. Now we get to fall in love with them all over again.
Aspen Davies left her home to start a new life.
Jesse Hayes is the new sheriff. A new job and a beautiful roommate.
This small town romance is jam packed with suspense and just the right amount of danger to keep those pages flying. I can already tell this new series is going to be a romantic suspense lovers delight.
March 9, 2025
DNF @ 65%. I normally love Nyssa Kathryn but I didn’t like these characters at all and the writing was nothing like I’ve read of hers in the past which is so sad as I normally love her!
August 5, 2025
The heroine’s stupidity was insufferable, her self-loathing was insufferable, and the narrator chosen for the role highlighted how insufferable she truly was. I was hoping that natural selection would take her out by the end of the book, but alas, no.
March 13, 2025
5 ⭐️ | 3 🌶️ | 5 🎧
What to Expect:
- Small Town
- Friends to Lovers
- Forced Proximity
- He Falls First
- Romantic Suspense
- Ex-Military MMC
- Romance Author FMC
- Slow Burn
- Third Person POV
What an incredible story! This was my first read by Nyssa Kathryn and definitely won't be my last. I was completely invested in Aspen and Jesse's journey. Aspen wants to start fresh and get away from her terrible ex and unstable mother. Her friend, Jesse Hayes, ex-special forces, has moved back to his hometown of Amber Ridge, and is now serving as the town sheriff. Aspen moves to Amber Ridge where she and Jesse become housemates. Despite their growing friendship and clear attraction to each other, Jesse tries to keep things platonic. Aspen starts to feel settled in Amber Ridge until an unexpected visitor from her past threatens to ruin everything, including the life she wants to build with Jesse. When things turn bad, Jesse is there to protect Aspen and keep her safe.
I loved Aspen and Jesse together! They were so sweet and the perfect match. Aspen is strong and a fighter. I truly felt for her and everything she was going through with her mother and ex. She did not give up though and she was determined to somehow find happiness. I fell hard for Jesse. He was patient, thoughtful, and always put Aspen's safety first. Aspen and Jesse truly helped each other heal. I could not wait for the moment they both finally gave into their feelings for each other. The development of their friends-to-lovers relationship was beautiful, and I loved their special connection. This story has twists and turns that kept me locked in and unable to stop listening. The action, yearning, tension, and steam were perfect. I definitely need more of this series and can't wait to see what comes next.
Narration:
Lucy Rivers and Connor Crais performed this audiobook in duet and it was phenomenal. I am a huge fan of both of these amazing voice actors, and was blown away by their performances. They fully embodied the characters and kept me engaged from start to finish. Although this was told in third person POV, I felt fully connected to the characters and immersed in the story. Lucy and Connor elevated the story, and created a memorable listening experience.
Thanks to Nyssa Kathryn and Blue Nose Audio for the gifted audiobook. Opinions expressed are my own.
What to Expect:
- Small Town
- Friends to Lovers
- Forced Proximity
- He Falls First
- Romantic Suspense
- Ex-Military MMC
- Romance Author FMC
- Slow Burn
- Third Person POV
What an incredible story! This was my first read by Nyssa Kathryn and definitely won't be my last. I was completely invested in Aspen and Jesse's journey. Aspen wants to start fresh and get away from her terrible ex and unstable mother. Her friend, Jesse Hayes, ex-special forces, has moved back to his hometown of Amber Ridge, and is now serving as the town sheriff. Aspen moves to Amber Ridge where she and Jesse become housemates. Despite their growing friendship and clear attraction to each other, Jesse tries to keep things platonic. Aspen starts to feel settled in Amber Ridge until an unexpected visitor from her past threatens to ruin everything, including the life she wants to build with Jesse. When things turn bad, Jesse is there to protect Aspen and keep her safe.
I loved Aspen and Jesse together! They were so sweet and the perfect match. Aspen is strong and a fighter. I truly felt for her and everything she was going through with her mother and ex. She did not give up though and she was determined to somehow find happiness. I fell hard for Jesse. He was patient, thoughtful, and always put Aspen's safety first. Aspen and Jesse truly helped each other heal. I could not wait for the moment they both finally gave into their feelings for each other. The development of their friends-to-lovers relationship was beautiful, and I loved their special connection. This story has twists and turns that kept me locked in and unable to stop listening. The action, yearning, tension, and steam were perfect. I definitely need more of this series and can't wait to see what comes next.
Narration:
Lucy Rivers and Connor Crais performed this audiobook in duet and it was phenomenal. I am a huge fan of both of these amazing voice actors, and was blown away by their performances. They fully embodied the characters and kept me engaged from start to finish. Although this was told in third person POV, I felt fully connected to the characters and immersed in the story. Lucy and Connor elevated the story, and created a memorable listening experience.
Thanks to Nyssa Kathryn and Blue Nose Audio for the gifted audiobook. Opinions expressed are my own.
March 14, 2025
New series alert for those who love the small town, friends to lovers tropes that also has a dash of romantic suspense thrown in!
Romance writer Aspen Davies has moved to the small town of Amber Ridge to escape her psychotic ex and to get away from her overbearing mother. Only problem is she has a crush on her housemate and she’s forgotten how to write…the lack of decent coffee in town doesn’t help matters either!
Discharged from the military, Jesse Hayes is back in his hometown of Amber Ridge and acting as the new town sheriff. He expected to be alone, but he now has a new housemate, and every day with Aspen feels like a new form of torture.
But when Aspen's past catches up with her, keeping his distance is no longer an option. Jesse will do everything in his power to keep Aspen safe.
I really liked the writing style and the flow of the storyline in Unafraid. I especially liked the chemistry between Aspen and Jesse, it made me devour their story. I also really enjoyed the banter, support and community of the side characters.
This was my first book by Aussie author Nyssa Kathryn and it has me wanting to read her back catalogue now!
Thank to the author for a digital copy to honestly review.
Romance writer Aspen Davies has moved to the small town of Amber Ridge to escape her psychotic ex and to get away from her overbearing mother. Only problem is she has a crush on her housemate and she’s forgotten how to write…the lack of decent coffee in town doesn’t help matters either!
Discharged from the military, Jesse Hayes is back in his hometown of Amber Ridge and acting as the new town sheriff. He expected to be alone, but he now has a new housemate, and every day with Aspen feels like a new form of torture.
But when Aspen's past catches up with her, keeping his distance is no longer an option. Jesse will do everything in his power to keep Aspen safe.
I really liked the writing style and the flow of the storyline in Unafraid. I especially liked the chemistry between Aspen and Jesse, it made me devour their story. I also really enjoyed the banter, support and community of the side characters.
This was my first book by Aussie author Nyssa Kathryn and it has me wanting to read her back catalogue now!
Thank to the author for a digital copy to honestly review.
March 12, 2025
Thank you to Blue Nose Audio for the ALC opportunity!
This is the first book in the Amder Ridge Series.
I absolutely devoured this audio book!
The narrators, Lucy Rivers and Connor Crais, brought this story to life!
I fell in love with Aspen and Jesse. The suspense kept me wondering what's going to happen next for them. This is not your typical love story. It includes trauma but also healing with the help of Jesse. I love how patient and protective he was of Aspen throughout the story.
Blurb:
Aspen Davies moves to Amber Ridge to escape from her overbearing mother and her abusive ex-boyfriend. She moves in with longtime friend, Jesse Hayes.
Discharged from the military, Jesse Hayes is back in his hometown of Amber Ridge. He is also the new Sheriff. Jesse wants to respect Aspen's wishes to not date anyone, so he keeps his distance and boundaries.
Aspen’s past follows her to her new home, leaving her in serious danger. Jesse needs to keep Aspen safe, in his sights at all times, and protect her at all costs.
Tropes:
A Small Town
Friends to Lovers
Romantic Suspense
This is the first book in the Amder Ridge Series.
I absolutely devoured this audio book!
The narrators, Lucy Rivers and Connor Crais, brought this story to life!
I fell in love with Aspen and Jesse. The suspense kept me wondering what's going to happen next for them. This is not your typical love story. It includes trauma but also healing with the help of Jesse. I love how patient and protective he was of Aspen throughout the story.
Blurb:
Aspen Davies moves to Amber Ridge to escape from her overbearing mother and her abusive ex-boyfriend. She moves in with longtime friend, Jesse Hayes.
Discharged from the military, Jesse Hayes is back in his hometown of Amber Ridge. He is also the new Sheriff. Jesse wants to respect Aspen's wishes to not date anyone, so he keeps his distance and boundaries.
Aspen’s past follows her to her new home, leaving her in serious danger. Jesse needs to keep Aspen safe, in his sights at all times, and protect her at all costs.
Tropes:
A Small Town
Friends to Lovers
Romantic Suspense
March 2, 2025
I've been looking forward to this book since meeting Jesse and Aspen at the end of the Reckless series. This is the first book in the series and is a standalone.
Aspen ends up moving in with Jesse to get away from her mother and her abusive ex. Jesse is the town sheriff and will do anything he can to keep her safe.
Jesse is waiting for the right moment to show Aspen how much she means to him, but she's got her mother and ex to deal with before she can move on. It was so sweet the way he made it known that he wanted to be with her, but stayed back so everything was at her pace.
I always love Nyssa's books and this series is no different, its everything you expect from her writing but she still manages to keep you on your toes with the characters, story and all the twists and turns. Looking back, I can't believe so much was packed into one book.
I love all the surrounding characters in this new series, and I'm hoping a few I've already met will play a part in future books.
If it's Beckett and Sky in the next book, there's going to be lots of fireworks between them for sure!
- he falls first
- friends to lovers
- mental health
- ghost ops military MMC
Aspen ends up moving in with Jesse to get away from her mother and her abusive ex. Jesse is the town sheriff and will do anything he can to keep her safe.
Jesse is waiting for the right moment to show Aspen how much she means to him, but she's got her mother and ex to deal with before she can move on. It was so sweet the way he made it known that he wanted to be with her, but stayed back so everything was at her pace.
I always love Nyssa's books and this series is no different, its everything you expect from her writing but she still manages to keep you on your toes with the characters, story and all the twists and turns. Looking back, I can't believe so much was packed into one book.
I love all the surrounding characters in this new series, and I'm hoping a few I've already met will play a part in future books.
If it's Beckett and Sky in the next book, there's going to be lots of fireworks between them for sure!
- he falls first
- friends to lovers
- mental health
- ghost ops military MMC
March 7, 2025
Unafraid is the first book in a new romantic suspense series by Nyssa Kathryn. It is a small town, friends to lovers’ story with nail biting suspense, emotional turmoil, former military, mental illness, domestic violence, close knit family, band of brothers, hot chemistry, and so much more!
We first meet Aspen and Jesse in the final book of Nyssa’s Reckless series: Reckless Love where she is the best friend of the book heroine (Callie) and Jesse is a former team member of the hero (Lock), there to lend a hand in time of need. *You do not need to read this story to understand Unafraid, but it does add more background to the characters. And... why would you not?! All of Nyssa’s books are great!
Aspen leaves her home in Misty Peak and moves halfway across the country to Amber Ridge to escape her demanding mother and her violent ex. She is damaged mentally and emotionally and needs a fresh start, to find herself again. She is a romance author with a tattered soul who needs to find her strength to believe in herself and love. Though she is done with relationships, she is drawn to Jesse in every way. She wants to trust him, but she is afraid to try. To be that vulnerable again. The last time cost her almost everything, what happens if it turns out the same way again?
Jesse Hayes is back in his hometown of Amber Ridge, after military life, to become sheriff of the small town. He is happy to be back with his family and to start his new job, and he is dying to get to know his new roommate. He was lending a helping hand, giving her a safe place to land when he offered her his spare room, but now being in close proximity 24/7 is torture, but in the best way. He wants to be her everything, but she is not ready for more than friends. He will be her friend and whatever else she needs to help her heal and prove to her that he is worth taking a chance on.
But the more time they spend together, it becomes harder to deny the pull. He makes her feel safe and loved. Can she find the courage to share her secrets and start again? Or will her past take the rest of her soul...and possibly even her life before she has the chance to try?
This is such a fantastic book! The chemistry between Aspen and Jesse is off-the-charts and the way he wants to care for her – totally *swoon*. I really would like to order a Jesse of my own! The town itself is wonderful and the supporting characters just add to the richness of the story in the best way. There is plenty of suspense and danger and soul searching and a few added twists you will not see coming. Even some contact with the friends in Misty Peak. It definitely deserves more than 5-stars and I am already looking forward to the next book – Beckett and Sky. May cannot come soon enough!
We first meet Aspen and Jesse in the final book of Nyssa’s Reckless series: Reckless Love where she is the best friend of the book heroine (Callie) and Jesse is a former team member of the hero (Lock), there to lend a hand in time of need. *You do not need to read this story to understand Unafraid, but it does add more background to the characters. And... why would you not?! All of Nyssa’s books are great!
Aspen leaves her home in Misty Peak and moves halfway across the country to Amber Ridge to escape her demanding mother and her violent ex. She is damaged mentally and emotionally and needs a fresh start, to find herself again. She is a romance author with a tattered soul who needs to find her strength to believe in herself and love. Though she is done with relationships, she is drawn to Jesse in every way. She wants to trust him, but she is afraid to try. To be that vulnerable again. The last time cost her almost everything, what happens if it turns out the same way again?
Jesse Hayes is back in his hometown of Amber Ridge, after military life, to become sheriff of the small town. He is happy to be back with his family and to start his new job, and he is dying to get to know his new roommate. He was lending a helping hand, giving her a safe place to land when he offered her his spare room, but now being in close proximity 24/7 is torture, but in the best way. He wants to be her everything, but she is not ready for more than friends. He will be her friend and whatever else she needs to help her heal and prove to her that he is worth taking a chance on.
But the more time they spend together, it becomes harder to deny the pull. He makes her feel safe and loved. Can she find the courage to share her secrets and start again? Or will her past take the rest of her soul...and possibly even her life before she has the chance to try?
This is such a fantastic book! The chemistry between Aspen and Jesse is off-the-charts and the way he wants to care for her – totally *swoon*. I really would like to order a Jesse of my own! The town itself is wonderful and the supporting characters just add to the richness of the story in the best way. There is plenty of suspense and danger and soul searching and a few added twists you will not see coming. Even some contact with the friends in Misty Peak. It definitely deserves more than 5-stars and I am already looking forward to the next book – Beckett and Sky. May cannot come soon enough!
March 23, 2025
I really enjoy Nyssa Kathryn’s books. They always have a great storyline and characters you can’t help but root for. Aspen is really hard on herself for not getting out of her previous relationship sooner, and understandably hesitant to trust Jessie. While she works to re-build her life in this new town, Jessie continues to show up for her and prove that he can be trusted. He’s not looking for a quick lay or one night stand. He knows that one night with Aspen will never be enough. Plenty of suspense, a sweet MMC and a great story!
I've read every one of Nyssa Kathryn's books and the characters often overlap between series. If you enjoyed the Reckless series, you met Aspen in that one. As usual this was an enjoyable read with a fast paced story that keeps you hooked. I can't wait for the next one in the series!
I've read every one of Nyssa Kathryn's books and the characters often overlap between series. If you enjoyed the Reckless series, you met Aspen in that one. As usual this was an enjoyable read with a fast paced story that keeps you hooked. I can't wait for the next one in the series!
March 6, 2025
Book one in the Amber Ridge series is an exciting start to a new series. I was blown away by the intense drama and action in the story.
Jesse, an ex-Ghost Ops specialist and now the town’s sheriff, was such a wonderful character. He was so protective and caring of Aspen, which shows how he’s the epitome of a good guy! Aspen, a romance author, was emotionally and physically scarred from her previous relationship with an abusive ex. I truly liked Aspen too but she was so hard on herself maybe that’s part of why I liked her character—she made no excuses for her behaviour and accepted how it was… sort of. She had such a big heart and it was time she found someone who could see her and appreciate her.
One of the things I liked best about these small-town stories by this author was the great descriptions of what it’s like to live in a small town. Amber Ridge had its quirks and Aspen fitted into the town so easily.
There are some fantastic twists in this book that slip in to take you by surprise. Some things were predictable but I feel they were meant to be but with others the unpredictability was incredible.
I look forward to reading the next book with Becket (Jesse’s older brother) and Sky, his neighbour who finds everything Becket does annoying. Though, I think this quote from Shakespeare’s Hamlet says it all…
"The lady doth protest too much, methinks.”
Jesse, an ex-Ghost Ops specialist and now the town’s sheriff, was such a wonderful character. He was so protective and caring of Aspen, which shows how he’s the epitome of a good guy! Aspen, a romance author, was emotionally and physically scarred from her previous relationship with an abusive ex. I truly liked Aspen too but she was so hard on herself maybe that’s part of why I liked her character—she made no excuses for her behaviour and accepted how it was… sort of. She had such a big heart and it was time she found someone who could see her and appreciate her.
One of the things I liked best about these small-town stories by this author was the great descriptions of what it’s like to live in a small town. Amber Ridge had its quirks and Aspen fitted into the town so easily.
There are some fantastic twists in this book that slip in to take you by surprise. Some things were predictable but I feel they were meant to be but with others the unpredictability was incredible.
I look forward to reading the next book with Becket (Jesse’s older brother) and Sky, his neighbour who finds everything Becket does annoying. Though, I think this quote from Shakespeare’s Hamlet says it all…
"The lady doth protest too much, methinks.”
February 25, 2025
Oh, how I adored Aspen! I found myself wishing I could just give her a big ol' hug. She is such a strong and resilient person, yet it broke my heart every time she couldn't see herself that way. From dealing with her mentally unstable mother to navigating the traumatic aftermath of her psychotic ex, Aspen’s journey is a difficult one. It’s clear she’s been through so much, and yet she still stands tall.
That’s where Jesse comes in, and I truly appreciated how he was there for her, showing incredible patience and understanding. His support felt so genuine, and I loved how he never pushed Aspen, always letting her take things at her own pace. They just click so well together. Their relationship is all about trust, respect, and growing together, and it makes their connection feel really genuine and special. And also, the amount of yearning Jesse does? Gah! It’s just so good.
I always love when authors hint at or set up the next couples in a series, and I’m guessing the next ones will be Holden and Clara (which I’m so excited about since “brother’s best friend” is one of my absolute favorite tropes!!). But also, Sky and Becket (enemies-to-lovers neighbors??). From their interactions in this book, it definitely seems like that’s where it’s heading, and I couldn’t stop laughing at how Becket kept annoying Sky with his antics. It’s like a boy on the playground pulling a girl’s ponytail just to get her attention and I love it. But honestly, I’m so excited for the next book!! I can’t wait to see how everything plays out.
That’s where Jesse comes in, and I truly appreciated how he was there for her, showing incredible patience and understanding. His support felt so genuine, and I loved how he never pushed Aspen, always letting her take things at her own pace. They just click so well together. Their relationship is all about trust, respect, and growing together, and it makes their connection feel really genuine and special. And also, the amount of yearning Jesse does? Gah! It’s just so good.
I always love when authors hint at or set up the next couples in a series, and I’m guessing the next ones will be Holden and Clara (which I’m so excited about since “brother’s best friend” is one of my absolute favorite tropes!!). But also, Sky and Becket (enemies-to-lovers neighbors??). From their interactions in this book, it definitely seems like that’s where it’s heading, and I couldn’t stop laughing at how Becket kept annoying Sky with his antics. It’s like a boy on the playground pulling a girl’s ponytail just to get her attention and I love it. But honestly, I’m so excited for the next book!! I can’t wait to see how everything plays out.
Read
April 13, 2025The book was fine, I’m sure. It just wasn’t for me.
February 28, 2025
Loved the new start to the Amber Ridge Series starting with Unafraid which follows Jesse and Aspen, who we met in the Reckless Series. Jesse, is one of Locke’s former team-mates and Aspen is Callie’s best friend. However, Aspen has moved across the country to get away from an abusive ex and her mentally unstable mum. She’s moved to Amber Ridge, Jesse’s hometown and now the local sheriff and renting a room off him. The two are attracted to each other but Aspen no longer trusts her judgement in men, even though Jesse seems like one of the good ones. She starts to feel settled and part of the community until it seems her past has followed her and people are dying. Good start to the series, easy read, HEA but with some twists and turns.
March 9, 2025
Such a gut wrenching, scorching can’t wait to turn the page angst filled read!
Jesse Hayes and Aspen Davies form a connection pretty instantaneously in Callie and Lock’s story Reckless Love, and you start to immediately sense the heat between them. Aspen has a strained relationship with her mother who has mental health challenges that she never deals with, and an ex boyfriend who has been rough with her. Jesse is recovering from a betrayal from one of his Ghost Ops team members and adjusting to his new role as town Sheriff. When Jesse offers Aspen a place to stay to take some time away from her handsy ex and challenging mother, she jumps at the chance. But what starts as an innocent offer soon becomes filled with steamy moments as their connection deepens. When Aspen’s mother decides to come to visit Amber Ridge, and pushes her way around bringing trouble with her, Jesse and his welcoming family are there for Aspen to provide a safe space. But when a murder hits close to home, the ex trying to get his hands on Aspen again and her mother bringing chaos , will it be too much for Jesse?
The story of Aspen’s relationship with her mother, and the repercussions of dealing with that situation and wanting someone to ‘love you’ is spot on.
How that particular part of the story unfolds is too real. It highlights Mental Health and the ripple effect of anyone who is close to that person and the emotional struggle that comes with it. So not only is this an amazing read but it also helps to validate the feelings that come with loving someone with a mental health disorder.
Well done Nyssa on yet another fantastic moving story! Love having met other potential characters in future books to come!
Jesse Hayes and Aspen Davies form a connection pretty instantaneously in Callie and Lock’s story Reckless Love, and you start to immediately sense the heat between them. Aspen has a strained relationship with her mother who has mental health challenges that she never deals with, and an ex boyfriend who has been rough with her. Jesse is recovering from a betrayal from one of his Ghost Ops team members and adjusting to his new role as town Sheriff. When Jesse offers Aspen a place to stay to take some time away from her handsy ex and challenging mother, she jumps at the chance. But what starts as an innocent offer soon becomes filled with steamy moments as their connection deepens. When Aspen’s mother decides to come to visit Amber Ridge, and pushes her way around bringing trouble with her, Jesse and his welcoming family are there for Aspen to provide a safe space. But when a murder hits close to home, the ex trying to get his hands on Aspen again and her mother bringing chaos , will it be too much for Jesse?
The story of Aspen’s relationship with her mother, and the repercussions of dealing with that situation and wanting someone to ‘love you’ is spot on.
How that particular part of the story unfolds is too real. It highlights Mental Health and the ripple effect of anyone who is close to that person and the emotional struggle that comes with it. So not only is this an amazing read but it also helps to validate the feelings that come with loving someone with a mental health disorder.
Well done Nyssa on yet another fantastic moving story! Love having met other potential characters in future books to come!
March 5, 2025
Can we trully escape our past? Run away from our own demons and never look back? Can they find us again?
In this story we meet Aspen, a woman trying to start her life in a new place, away from her toxic ex and mother. Aspen is a brave and independent woman that has had a difficult family and even worse love life. With those difficulties she started having trouble trusting others and even trusting herself. She moves into Ambar Ridge with Jesse, her friend, and even if the change is exactly what she needs it's hard to live with a man who is only her friend but to whom she's so attracted to.
Jesse is scheriff in Amber Ridge, and takes is job at ptotecting others pretty seriously. And protecting Aspen is no exception. It's even more important than all others because of his feelings for her. But he has to give her time, and he is a patient man. Patient, kind, caring, protective and just amazing really!
When weird things start appening and it's clear she is in danger two things happen: he goes all protective, in caveman mode, and they are forced to trust each other even more and trust their feelings for one another.
There are twists and turns and surprises that we have a lot going on and keeping us stuck to the pages trying to gather all of it down. It has action, suspense, romance, love and humor.
As always with Nyssa's books, it's a hit!
In this story we meet Aspen, a woman trying to start her life in a new place, away from her toxic ex and mother. Aspen is a brave and independent woman that has had a difficult family and even worse love life. With those difficulties she started having trouble trusting others and even trusting herself. She moves into Ambar Ridge with Jesse, her friend, and even if the change is exactly what she needs it's hard to live with a man who is only her friend but to whom she's so attracted to.
Jesse is scheriff in Amber Ridge, and takes is job at ptotecting others pretty seriously. And protecting Aspen is no exception. It's even more important than all others because of his feelings for her. But he has to give her time, and he is a patient man. Patient, kind, caring, protective and just amazing really!
When weird things start appening and it's clear she is in danger two things happen: he goes all protective, in caveman mode, and they are forced to trust each other even more and trust their feelings for one another.
There are twists and turns and surprises that we have a lot going on and keeping us stuck to the pages trying to gather all of it down. It has action, suspense, romance, love and humor.
As always with Nyssa's books, it's a hit!
March 8, 2025
If this series continues in the way that it has started then we are in for a real treat. As we are introduced to Amber Ridge with no place for a decent coffee, a pizza place that sells awful pizzas and a tea house that no-one goes to, we meet Jesse and Aspen. Jesse is now the new sheriff and is determined to protect his roommate Aspen who is battling a crazy ex and her unstable mother. As their feelings for each other develop Aspen finds herself struggling to write her book as well as find a way to stop blaming herself for her ex's actions. With her mother acting even more strangely than normal and her ex in town and determined to make Aspen pay, they discover betrayal from within which has heartbreaking consequences for those around them. I love Nyssa's books and this one doesn't disappoint. Full of drama, suspense, twists and turns, this has all that you would expect and more. I had to read it in one sitting and I can't wait to read about Beckett and Sky's story next.
March 11, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
UNAFRAID is book one in the Amber Ridge series and it features Aspen and Jesse who we first met in the final book of the Reckless series. Aspen is a romance author who is struggling to love again after escaping her abusive ex and terrible mother from her hometown. Jesse is a former Ghost Ops soldier who invited Aspen to move into his home in Amber Ridge, as a way to safely escape her past. Aspen is working diligently to start a new life, write her next book and not fall for Jesse. Although, she’s not doing for very good at any of those things but especially not the part about falling for Jesse. The attraction between Jesse and Aspen is beyond obvious but Aspen has a tough past and she doesn’t think she’s ready to love again. Jesse is a patient and kind man who does everything he possibly can to prove that he will keep her safe always. This book is a great start to this series and is full of suspense, mystery, protective hero vibes and a beautiful friends to lovers story.
UNAFRAID is book one in the Amber Ridge series and it features Aspen and Jesse who we first met in the final book of the Reckless series. Aspen is a romance author who is struggling to love again after escaping her abusive ex and terrible mother from her hometown. Jesse is a former Ghost Ops soldier who invited Aspen to move into his home in Amber Ridge, as a way to safely escape her past. Aspen is working diligently to start a new life, write her next book and not fall for Jesse. Although, she’s not doing for very good at any of those things but especially not the part about falling for Jesse. The attraction between Jesse and Aspen is beyond obvious but Aspen has a tough past and she doesn’t think she’s ready to love again. Jesse is a patient and kind man who does everything he possibly can to prove that he will keep her safe always. This book is a great start to this series and is full of suspense, mystery, protective hero vibes and a beautiful friends to lovers story.
July 12, 2025
I enjoyed watching Jesse and Aspen go from friends to lovers throughout this book.
The way Jesse was so protective and wanted to keep Aspen safe made my heart so happy, because she deserved it after everything Dylan and her mom put her through.
I did feel at times the story was being rushed and I was not a fan of how Aspen always ran away instead of expressing her feelings.
Overall I enjoyed this book and cannot wait to read the rest of the series ❤️
The way Jesse was so protective and wanted to keep Aspen safe made my heart so happy, because she deserved it after everything Dylan and her mom put her through.
I did feel at times the story was being rushed and I was not a fan of how Aspen always ran away instead of expressing her feelings.
Overall I enjoyed this book and cannot wait to read the rest of the series ❤️
March 10, 2025
I enjoyed Unafraid. I thought the plot, suspense and characters were done well. I liked the introduction into Amber Ridge and getting to know Jesse and his family and friends and how Aspen fits in with them. I liked the family feel we got of the town. I loved the Tea House and Mrs Gerald and how she and Aspen are together and the relationship they cultivate. I thought there was a lot of chemistry between Jesse and Aspen and enjoyed seeing everything unfold. I think Aspen deserved better from her mum and i’m so glad she had Jesse, his family and the family she’d found in Amber Ridge. I loved hearing about Callie and Lock too. Great start to the series!
March 10, 2025
Aspen needed to get away. She needed to get away from her crazy mother and her crazy ex boyfriend. Enter Jesse. Jesse lives in Amber Ridge and although he just met Aspen through a friend, he offers her a room at his house so she can get away. Aspen takes the chance and begins to rebuild her life. Both Jesse and Aspen, although they admit there is a mutual attraction, keep fighting their feelings for each other. When Aspen turns out to be in danger, Jesse leaves nothing to chance anymore and fights for her. But can they overcome her past together?
A wonderful first book in the Amber Ridge series. I always love when you get a glimpse of a character in another series and then they get their own story in a different series. Nyssa Kathryn is a magician with world building and this book had me trying to figure out the mystery till the end.
I received an advanced copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving my review.
A wonderful first book in the Amber Ridge series. I always love when you get a glimpse of a character in another series and then they get their own story in a different series. Nyssa Kathryn is a magician with world building and this book had me trying to figure out the mystery till the end.
I received an advanced copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving my review.
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