Thaw of Spring

Knife's Edge, Alaska #2

by Rebecca Zanetti

Welcome to Knife's Edge, Alaska, where the four Osprey brothers return from military service with shadows in their eyes and secrets in their hearts. As danger looms, new romances ignite, and these rugged men must fight for love…and survival.

Christian Osprey prefers the wilderness to the company of people. A former Navy Special Operator, he’s built for isolation and thrives in the untamed wild. He doesn’t want ties, doesn’t need anyone—but he can’t seem to stay away from Amka, the soft-eyed tavern owner who always greets him with a warm smile, a hot cup of coffee, and no expectations.

Amka Pinga has spent her life being strong for everyone else, even as her own life unravels. Trapped in an engagement that feels more like a cage, she’s tangled in obligations that threaten to break her spirit. Christian’s quiet strength feels like a lifeline she doesn’t dare reach for—but danger is circling Knife’s Edge, and this time, she’s at the center of it.

When Amka becomes a target, Christian will stop at nothing to protect her. But their simmering attraction explodes into something fierce and undeniable, and keeping her close blurs the line between protection and possession. In a town where secrets run deeper than the icy rivers and trust is as treacherous as thin ice, survival means risking everything—even their hearts.

Genres: Romantic Suspense, Romance, Suspense, Mystery, Thriller, Contemporary Romance, Small Town Romance

356 pages, Kindle Edition

First published September 2, 2025

About the author

New York Times, USA Today, Publisher’s Weekly and Wall Street Journal bestselling author Rebecca Zanetti has published more than seventy novels and novellas, which have been translated into several languages, with millions of copies sold world-wide. Her books have received Publisher’s Weekly and Kirkus starred reviews, favorable Washington Post and New York Times Book Reviews, and been included in Amazon best books of the year.

Rebecca has ridden in a locked Chevy trunk, has asked the unfortunate delivery guy to release her from a set of handcuffs, and has discovered the best silver mine shafts in which to bury a body…all in the name of research. Honest.

Reviews

[Madison Warner Fairbanks · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thaw of Spring by Rebecca Zanetti
Knife’s Edge, Alaska series #2. Romantic suspense. Can be read as a standalone but better in series order for character crossover and continuity.
The small town of Knife’s Edge is overrun by influencers. One of those influencers manages to catch on video a building blowing up with Christian Osprey being a hero and saving Amka Pinga. Christian doesn’t understand why he can’t save her from her fiancee, Jared Teller, but as another incident occurs with Amka in the middle, he vows to remain close to her.
In the meantime, another victim is found in a remote area with their eyes missing. No one was able to identify the prior victims, but this one still has a wallet. Christian is hired as an Alaskan Wildlife Trooper to help investigate and protect the area. He asks his brothers, Brock, Ace and Damien for help with protecting Amka and to keep watch around the town.

Fast moving action in a cold and rainy Alaska. Suspense, romance, suspicion, danger, protective brothers, small town friends and feels, plus the question: who wants Amka dead?

Intense, and gripping plus unforgettable romance.
An author that alway goes to the top of my Read Next list.

[Tracey · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a well-written, entertaining, fast paced, romantic suspense novel. It has a likable, strong and capable female protagonist, an engaging male protagonist, a sizzling romance, wit, supportive friends and family, murder, mystery, suspense, several unexpected twists, and a satisfying conclusion. This is the second entry in Ms. Zanetti's fabulous Knife's Edge, Alaska series, and it can be read as a stand alone, but it is better when read in order for continuity. I am looking forward to reading the next installment with great anticipation. I listened to the audio book, and the narrator, Ms. Ava Flynn, does an outstanding job voicing the characters.

[Anita · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is so much better than the first one in this series. I love this Romantic-Suspense with hot, warrior heroes and determined heroines and is my preferred reading any time. Anika and Christian's relationship is wonderful. I love how they understand each other's needs and accept each other as they are. There are several mysteries brewing in Knife's Edge, Alaska, one is an arc from the first book. Lots of action and the baddie isn't reveled to the end and I did not see that one coming. Loved this story and can't wait for the next book.

Everybody has a secret, and the Osprey brothers are not exception. For Christian Osprey it is more that his military service has left a shadow on his soul. He prefers the wilderness to the city and animals to humans. The exception to that is Amka Pinga, the Knife's Edge tavern owner. She has found a way past his defenses and even though she's engaged to someone else, Christian is drawn to her. When danger threatens her, Christian will stop at nothing to protect her and keep her safe.

Amka has her own secrets and keeping them has left her open to extortion. Being engaged to a man she can barely tolerate is one consequence. As danger stalks her it is Christian who steps up to protect her, even if she doesn't want him to. Stretched to the limit, Amka finds comfort in Christian's arms and his protection.

[Lady Heather · Rating 5 out of 5]

I LOVED this story!
Amazing writing!
Amazing characters!
Amazing storyline!
I cannot wait for the next book in the series!

[Lover of Romance · Rating 4 out of 5]

This review may contain spoilers, so fair warning, upon reading the review. Also my tags may have spoilers in them so be forewarned before checking out full review.

Book Evaluation:
Plot: 🎞️🎞️🎞️🎞️🎞️
World Building:🌎🌎🌎🌎🌎
Cover:📔📔📔📔📔
Hero: 🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻.5
Heroine:🦸🏻‍♀️🦸🏻‍♀️🦸🏻‍♀️🦸🏻‍♀️
Intimacy Level: 🔥🔥🔥
Relationship Building: 💒💒💒💒
Heart & Feels:💞💞💞💞
Witty/Banter/Reaction of Laughter: 😂😂😂😂
Page Turner Level:📖📖📖📖
Narration:🎧🎧🎧🎧🎧
Ending:🧧🧧🧧🧧🧧
Overall View: ✨✨✨✨.25


First Impressions
Thaw of Spring is the second book in the newest suspense series by Rebecca Zanetti. I will live and breathe by this author. Everything she writes I have really enjoyed. And Thaw of Spring was a blast to read. I did this mostly in audio but some in kindle and both versions are a great way to read. Thaw of Spring is a story that features a suspense plot, the heroine in a bad situation of blackmail and she doesn't know her best options moving forward. Our hero is a recluse, hides in the mountains with his dog Tika. His own brothers have a hard time accepting the solace and quiet he needs in the woods. This is a story of a heroine who has always pined for Christian, but Christian has a lifestyle that doesn't fit a wife or a family. But when the woman he can see loving is put in danger.....sometimes love will change priorities...

First Line
Knife's Edge didn't thaw quietly--it cracked, hissed and burned its way into spring.

The Main Protagonists
The Hero: Christian
The Heroine: Amka

Summary
Christian has always loved the wilds of Alaska, and needs the peace that he can find in the mountains of Alaska after his time as a military operator. His own brothers can't seem to find a way to accept what he needs. But there is one woman that tempts him more than any other and she is in danger and he refuses to let her be hurt. Amka is finding herself being blackmailed for a act was done out of service and love but could destroy everything she has built in Knife's Edge. Now she is in a forced engagement, and not knowing how to get out from an abusive man's control. But there is one man who gives her the strength that she needs to fight for something better .....but that could be all destroyed with the treacherous secrets and deceptions that are as dangerous as the spring in Alaska can be....

What I Loved
Thaw of Spring was a spectacular read that I didn't want to put down. I did it in a mix of Audio and Ebook and I think either way will work for readers. I loved both ways but her writing is very easy to read. Thaw of Spring is book two in the Osprey brothers. And I had so much more fun with this one than even the first book. I was on the edge of my seat all the way through reading this one here. It had thrills, mysteries and a fun romance that delivered in all the ways I like from Zanetti. Now I wouldn't say the romance is as strong as some of what she has had in the past. But its stronger in the story than what she wrote in her thrillers. The plot involving the heroine was such fun. And I didn't suspect who the villain was in the story, the one that is living in the shadows. We see many elements in the story that are Zanetti's strength. One of the elements I truly enjoyed the most was how atmospheric this book became. It was so vibrant and intense and it felt like I was in Alaska while I was reading this one. The romance that developed between Christian and Amka was beautiful. I loved Christian's quiet strength for Amka. And the way in which Amka accepts Christian for who he was was resonating. These two just fit so right in so many ways. They truly compliment each other just right and it a journey seeing them both discover how well they fit and the deep love that is building between them. And we see hints for book 3 and after seeing the cover I CAN'T wait!!!

What I Struggled With
Honestly not much, I just wish the romance was a bit more stronger than it was.

Narration
PERFECTION!!! I can't wait to listen to more from this narrator. I loved how she did the male voices and how well she brought the book to life.

Overall View
Thaw of Spring was a thrilling, edgy romantic suspense that delivered and strikes a deep chord within the reader! A STORY THAT WILL STAY WITH YOU!

Book Details (also in my shelves)
Sub Genre: Romantic Suspense/Thriller
Character Types: Alpha Hero, Business Owner, Ex Military
Themes: Danger/Suspense, Love of Animals, Survival/Wilderness, Pining Heroine
Tropes: Protector, Blackmail, Forbidden Love, Unrequited Love

Book Perspective
Duo POV

Relationship Conflict vs Plot Conflict
Both

If you like these authors, I recommend This Book
Lora Leigh
Julie Ann Walker
Christine Feehan

Song This Book Inspires
Waves-JMR

Recommendation For Reading Order
Yes!

Steam/Spice Explanations

Steamin' up the room -the sexual content is more explicit in the language and tone, heavier amount of sexual scenes.

Narrators:
Ava Flynn

[Mindy Lou's Book Review · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved the audiobook. Loved the storyline. Loved Christian and Amka both. So far this series has been 5 stars for me.

[Ann · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.0 stars. Loner Christian and bar owner Amka's story starts off with a bang. Explosions, sniper fire, and dead bodies.That annoying deadbeat Jared is putting the pressure on Amka to set a wedding date. Christian and the rest of the Osprey brothers rally around Amka to protect and defend her when she's seems to be a target, then becomes a possible suspect for arson and murder. Quick moving story with plenty of mystery, romance, action, and suspense.

[Emily · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's soooo good, I loved it!
I couldn't wait for Christian and Amka's story, after reading and loving book #1 Dead of Winter.
The descriptions made me feel like I'm right there. In fact, I was shivering through parts of it, hehe. Had some good laughs too. Was really rooting for Christian and Amka. Have loved all the characters in this series actually.
And what a mystery! It was pretty tricky to figure out who the arsonist was and the killer (or killers??). So many twists and turns.
Highly recommended.
I can't wait for the next in the series - Burn of Summer

[Pat · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read Dead of Winter by Rebecca Zanetti and was hooked. I was thrilled when I found Thaw of Spring. I love KNIFE’s Edge,the amazing Osprey Brothers and everyone entangled in each other’s lives. The suspense is off the charts and the romance sizzles. I’m just disappointed that we have to wait till next year for Ace’s story.
I’ll be looking for more books by this author!

[Pamela(AllHoney) · Rating 4 out of 5]

The second book in Knife's Edge, Alaska series by Rebecca Zanetti. I read the first and liked it and the same with this one. While there is not technically a cliffhanger, there is an ongoing storyline that carries over from the first book and will continue on to the next.
This book follows Christian Osprey and Amka Amaruq. Amka went to her storage warehouse to check on supplies when it blows up. Christian rushes to her rescue. Amka is engaged to Jerod but won't confess to why. But it's obvious that someone is trying to kill her. Meanwhile, people are being killed on the mountain.

[Kristin Towers · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars ⭐️
2.5 of 5 chili peppers 🌶️

This series is: You and Rebecca Zanetti just met on a plane, and you’re people-watching over wine while waiting on your layover from Anchorage to Seattle. There might be a few holes in the stories she’s spinning, there might be a few things off — some dialogue is weird, some plot points are skimmed over, or left out, or clichè — but it actually doesn’t matter because just being in the moment is a lot of fun.

“Thaw of Spring” handles the characters and continuation of the first book really nicely. It spirals out from what we already know, but could standalone if it had to. There is a little more plot-wise which asks you to take some logical leaps but still fits into the world of Knife’s Edge. Again, the town feels lived-in and realistic, with a big variety of characters who look out for one another with a healthy respect for personal choices.

Some different themes explored in this one:

▫️A real focus on women helping women, of all ages and for all reasons —sometimes for nothing other than solidarity

▫️A town circling their veterans as they get reacquainted with civilian society to varying degrees of success, who need (and have) mentors, friends, and found family. Christian especially is dealing with a savior complex, and I really appreciate how this behavior isn’t glorified and he’s far from infallible.

▫️Characters can have personalities separate from their Native Alaskan herotage, while also caring deeply for those roots

I liked the difference between Christian and Amka’s relationship versus what we saw in “Dead of Winter”; their communication styles, boundary-setting (and breaking), and chemistry are refreshingly unique and actually feel more genuine than Brock and Ophelia’s.

**SPOILER** There’s a part of me that doesn’t like having two books in a row in which a “crazy woman” goes on an unhinged crime spree because she’s love-drunk for a man. But another part of me knows this can and does happen, and I want to give Zanetti’s other crime series the opportunity to show a different central conceit.

Read to BMTH’s album “That’s the Spirit”.

And now the long-ass wait until Ace’s story in April. Luckily, Zanetti had a huge back catalogue.

[Kristine · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.25 Stars ⭐️

This is the second book in a series about 4 brothers who live in a small Alaska town called Knife's Edge. The men - who were found and adopted by a man named Hank after an avalanche killed every one else in their small village - were called A, B, C, D. That is until people told Hank that they needed names. So far book 1 was about Brock, and this book is about Christian (that leaves Damian and Ace).

The men are all former military men - Spec Ops, Intelligence, Navy and Air Force (I think - don't quote me on those specifics) but basically, they are all tough and gorgeous....oh, and tall.

Okay. In this book Christian has a thing for our FMC Amka who is already engaged to a jerk whose name I can't remember. But all is not as it seems. Amka is being blackmailed and little by little Christian begins to realize that something is going on.

Here is where I had problems. On the believability factor - it is a REAL stretch. I mean, Amka is blown up, shot at, had her brakes cut and had the car drive into the frozen river, blown up again......are you catching a theme here??? This is all within a week. And that's not even evertything - she's also kidnapped.....

I can maybe get on board with some of this but then she keeps on working. She owns the local bar/restaurant and continues to work from open to close every single day with all of these injuries. It's a lot.

That does not take into count the Mayberry-like policing (If you're under 50, you probably will not get that reference) that takes place by the Alaskan Atate Troopers but it makes absolutely NO sense. She is arrested for something - even though that was the night she amlost drowned in the river after her truck completely submerged. It became frustrating - at least to me.

But, I love Ms. Zanetti and have read everything she has ever written so I am in this for the long hall. I mean, I need to find out what happens to A and D :)

[Tash · Rating 5 out of 5]

OMGOODNESS, it's been some time since I've come across a really good action-packed read that kept me guessing. Our main male character is a broody loner who prefers to be in the wilderness with his dog Tika, rather than be around the townsfolk. I mean, he does have goo-goo eyes for a certain tavern owner, but Christain has pretty much thrown any kind of relationship ideas with her or any one out the window. He believes that ain't the life for him.
Our main female character, Amka is loved by everyone in the town, so it's hard to believe someone is trying to kill her. It's a small town in Alaska and everybody pretty knows everybody. But it's tourist season and there are lots of suspects. From blowing up the bar to cutting brakes and not to mention, the dead bodies that's been popping up around town, this book had it all for me.
This is the second book in the series and my first read from this author. It did NOT disappoint!! If anything, I'm ready to pick up book one ;)
5 outta 5 banging stars for me!!

[Valeria Spencer · Rating 4 out of 5]

I like the Knife’s Edge series. Book 2 involves another Osprey brother, this time Christian, another bossy, macho, caretaker man. Amka is our heroine who is a wonderful, fully developed character who holds her own against bossy boots Christian. Lots of explosions and shooting going on and enough red herrings to keep me guessing to the end. I did not see it coming! Can’t wait for the next book, either Ace or Damian.

[Grace · Rating 3 out of 5]

I read this two weeks ago so any specific points I wanted to raise are now lost to me, but this was fine and I'm interested in where the series is going so that's something.

[Kimberly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book Review: Thaw of Spring by Rebecca Zanetti

Published by Tantor Media — thank you to Tantor Media and NetGalley for my gifted ARC.

This book doesn’t open so much as detonate. A bar explodes. A sniper fires. The brake lines fail. Spring may be coming to Knife’s Edge, Alaska, but apparently so is murder. Somewhere between all the chaos, a rugged mountain man named Christian Osprey decides he’s going to stop pretending he doesn’t care about Amka Amaruq. That’s the real thaw here—the emotional kind. And let me tell you, watching a semi-feral ex-Navy Special Operator fall headfirst into feelings is exactly the kind of entertainment I signed up for.

Christian isn’t your typical hero. He’s basically a bear in tactical gear. Doesn’t do “indoors,” doesn’t do “talking,” and definitely doesn’t do “relationships.” He lives off-grid with a wolf-husky named Tika, only appears in town when absolutely necessary, and spends most of his time brooding near trees. And yet—he cannot seem to stay away from Amka, the bar owner with steady eyes, a sharp mind, and an unfortunate engagement to a man who should come with a red flag printed directly on his forehead.

Amka is strong. Not in the boring “she can lift things” kind of way, but in the “she’s been carrying everyone else’s burdens for so long she’s forgotten how to set them down” kind of way. She’s been surviving a blackmail situation with all the grace of someone keeping the town fed while slowly unraveling from the inside out. And through it all, she manages to keep offering Christian coffee and kindness like she’s not hanging by an emotional thread. Frankly, she deserves a medal for not stabbing anyone. Especially her fiancé.

The suspense plot barrels forward at full speed. There’s a killer—or killers—stalking the wilds outside Knife’s Edge. The body count is rising, and the victims keep showing up with their eyes removed, which is subtle and definitely not terrifying at all. Local authorities are doing their best impression of “overwhelmed small-town law enforcement,” so of course, the Osprey brothers step in with their combined military-grade skill sets and excessive protective instincts. Christian signs on as a Wildlife Trooper, and suddenly, his unofficial role as Amka’s grumpy shadow becomes very official.

There’s also a delightful sideshow involving influencers descending on Knife’s Edge because someone thought entering a social media contest for “America’s Coziest Town” during a murder spree was a great idea. One such influencer even captures Christian saving Amka from an explosion, turning him into an unwilling viral sensation. He’s about as thrilled with that as you’d expect—somewhere between “growl” and “throws phone into a lake.”

But amidst the danger, zaniness, and social media drama, what really works is the slow, aching burn between Christian and Amka. This is not a meet-cute. It’s a years-long, quiet magnetism finally snapping under pressure. The man who can’t be indoors finds himself needing her warmth. The woman who never asks for help starts relying on his presence like it’s air. Every scene they share crackles with tension—romantic, emotional, and, occasionally, the actual bomb-defusal kind.

Rebecca Zanetti knows exactly what she’s doing. She doesn’t just write romantic suspense—she commands it. The pacing is tight, the stakes are high, and the setting is practically a character itself. Alaska in this book is not a backdrop; it’s a mood: cold, wild, unforgiving, and stunning. Every pine needle and gust of wind feels like it’s whispering secrets.

And let’s talk about the audiobook for a second. Ava Flynn narrates like she is the town of Knife’s Edge. Her ability to shift between Christian’s gravel and Amka’s steadiness is uncanny. She doesn’t just perform the story—she breathes it. If you’re an audio person, this one’s a no-brainer.

There’s a moment about three-quarters through the book that made me pause the audio just to emotionally regroup. Christian, who has spent most of the book stomping through the snow and trying very hard not to admit he’s in love, finally lets the truth slip. He says: “I don’t need a house, Amka. I need you.” And I? Ascended. Into the Alaskan clouds. Goodbye.

This isn’t a perfect love story—it’s a hard-fought one. These two are scarred, stubborn, and surrounded by death. But they choose each other, again and again, even when it doesn’t make sense. That’s the kind of romance that sticks.

If Dead of Winter was the setup, Thaw of Spring is the payoff. The mystery deepens, the romance sharpens, and the Osprey brothers get even more compelling. I already know I’m emotionally unprepared for Book 3 (Burn of Summer—bring it). I don’t even care whose story it is. I just want to be back in Knife’s Edge where the air is cold, the men are emotionally repressed, and the women own the damn town.

Quote I can’t stop thinking about:
“You think I’m wild, Amka? You haven’t seen me in love yet.”
Sir. Calm down. Or don’t.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ // 5 Stars
Because when a book has explosions, small-town secrets, slow-burn longing, and a wolfdog who’s better at relationships than half the human cast, it earns every single one.

#ThawOfSpring #RebeccaZanetti #KnifeEdgeAlaska #RomanticSuspense #BookReview #ARCReview #GrumpySunshine #AlaskaRomance #AudiobookAddict #TantorAudio #NetGalleyReviewer #ChristianAndAmka #MountainManRomance #SlowBurnRomance #OspreyBrothers #SpringWithAMurderSidePlot

[✿ | thatgrl.kuoya | ❥ · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 Christian x Amka stars

Another Osprey brother down for the count.
Loved this. Christian is by far my fave brother. All that wildness. Rawr.
Amka really had it tough from the beginning but she always had time for Christian. Even though he was fighting his feelings majority of the time 😩

Ngl i didn't see either twists coming but this kept me up til early hours in the am, i was that hooked!
Cannot wait for the other 2 Osprey brothers to fall victim to their females 😌

[Anne - Books of My Heart · Rating 4 out of 5]

This review was originally posted on Books of My Heart
 

Review copy was received from Libro.fm, Tantor Audio. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.

Thaw of Spring was more enjoyable for me than the previous book, or at least slightly more believable.  The next brother for us to know is Christian.  There are four brothers with military and wilderness experience.  Their father died about a year ago but no one has been arrested.  It was clear he was interested in Amka but he is not a settle down kind of guy.  In fact, even in Alaska he is not an inside guy.  He sleeps outside and roams the woods with his wolf-husky Tika.

Christian hasn't gotten a job since leaving the Navy Special Operations.  He doesn't want an inside or desk job.  He has plenty of skills which would be useful in law enforcement, or even search and rescue since he is an excellent tracker.

Amka owns a bar & grill that is a long-standing fixture in the small town of Knife's Edge.  She is well loved by many.   She is engaged to Jared Teller.  He's a rotter so no one understands why.  She agreed to fake relationship but now he wants to make it real.  She is against that and takes various steps to make herself less attractive to him.

Then the bar storage building blows up, nearly killing Amka, a sniper shoots at a group with Amka coming out of the bar,  and then her brake lines are cut.  Someone is trying to kill her.  But there are other deaths.  There have been mysterious deaths in the woods with men Brock and Ollie can't identify.  Now one is identified.

Christian has to step in to do everything to protect Amka.  Luckily Jared is mostly out of town.  But the attraction between Christian and Amka is undeniable.  Christian knows he isn't fit for any woman.  Amka understands and appreciates him, but now she finds a surprising foundation as she really gets to know him.

Some law enforcement, not the brothers, seems rather incompetent or at least taking the easy answer for things.  We get introduced to Damien's woman which may be the next book.  Or it could be Ace who seems to be interested in the doctor May.  I look forward to the next story in Knife's Edge next April,  Burn of Summer.

Narration:
I'm not very familiar with Ava Flynn.  I was comfortable with her voices for the characters, so I am pleased to have her continue as the narrator for the series. I appreciated how the performance allowed me to focus on the story.  I was able to listen at my usual 1.5x speed.

Listen to a clip: HERE

[Debbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thaw of Spring is the second book in the Knife’s Edge, Alaska series by Rebecca Zanetti. This series centers around four brothers (Brock, Christian, Ace and Damian) who have returned home to Knife’s Edge, Alaska after all having served in the military. This is Christian’s story.

Christian is protective and watchful. He thrives being outdoors and believes he’s better off living alone. He will do whatever it takes to keep those people he cares about safe. Although he’s hesitant to admit it, Amka is on that list. Once Christian realizes she’s in danger, he goes all out to make sure she is safe and locate the threat.

Amka is a strong and brave woman. She owns the local tavern and is determined to make it on her own. She has a big secret that she’s hiding to protect one of the locals, plus it now looks like someone is trying to kill her. Christian is constantly there to save her, and as bad as she wants him, she’s afraid to hope it will ever happen.

Amka is the perfect woman for Christian. She doesn’t want to change him or make him become a man he is not. She’s accepting and loving and allows Christian to protect her. He comes across as grouchy and intimidating, but Christian can’t help but show Amka his softer and more vulnerable side. He also has a pet wolf that I think is totally cool.

There are still unanswered questions regarding the murders in Knife’s Edge. The brothers are getting closer and mending their relationships with each other. Two have now found happiness and I cannot wait to get Ace and Damian’s books and witness their paths to happy endings also.

This is a great book told from both POVs with a little mystery, a little a romance and a little adventure.

[Buffyanna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Knife’s Edge is a rugged and remote town in northern Alaska, so named because the nearby mountain range looks like a knife’s edge. In a place where everyone should know everyone else’s business there exists an abundance of mysteries and secrets. It’s a small town paradox!

Who’s responsible for the local eye-gouging murders? And who are the unidentified victims? Why is the town’s popular barkeeper, Amka, engaged to a total loser, Jarod? When will Christian Osprey, arguably the most untamed of the fearsome Osprey brothers, finally quit his lurking and do something about his obvious fondness for the kind-hearted barkeep?

These are some of confounding questions to be dealt with by a host of spectacular characters. There’s danger and camaraderie for the inhabitants of Knife’s Edge. Their numbers are swelling this season due to the annual fishing derby and the town being named in an unprecedented social media contest. This last bit brings quite a bit of fun!

Amka’s hitherto quiet life is getting more dangerous as her engagement with Jarod progresses. She ends up in explosions and other “incidents.” So fortunate that Christian is there to rescue Amka each time. When blogger, Nixi Halliday, captures one such rescue on camera, Christian becomes the latest social media hero sensation, much to his chagrin! Amka should really ditch Jarod and get with Christian, shouldn’t she?

Thaw of Spring is non-stop action. The suspense comes first and the sexy romance just garnishes it perfectly. Every time I read the next instalment in a Rebecca Zanetti suspense, I think it is the best series she’s written and yet she keeps delivering more. This is no exception.

[Jan Sikes · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read the first book in this series and loved it, so couldn't wait for the second one, and I was not disappointed.
Knife's Edge in Alaska is a small remote town. Everyone knows everyone. Four brothers, Brock, Ace, Christian and Damian Osprey are all high level military trained and all carrying scars from time spent on the battlefields.
In the first book, the focus is on Brock. In this book, it's Christian. While I met all the brothers in the first book, the second books dives deeper into each of them. Christian prefers to be outdoors, regardless of the harsh weather Alaska is known for. And Amka has slipped him bowls of soup out the back door of her restaurant for a long time. And Christian has never stopped watching her from a distance.
But Amka is now engaged to be married to Jarod, and he is a huge jerk. Still, Christian won't interfere. Until an explosion almost ends Amka's life. He braves the flames to save her.
A large group of social media influencers are in town and video the rescue, which goes viral. But danger doesn't end with the explosion. A series of events soon lets Amka know that someone wants her dead. And Christian is determined not to allow that. There are some surprising twists in this story and secrets that surface which change everything. I loved this story. I loved all the characters and can't wait to revisit Knife's Edge in the next book! Hurry it up, Ms. Zanetti. I hope the next story is about Ace. Guess I will have to wait and see. If you love great suspense stories with a steamy romance, you will love this series. I highly recommend it!

[Amanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent story!

This book is another successful story written by Rebecca Zanetti! This series is absolutely amazing. The characters are so well written that you just can't help but like them or hate them depending on what character it is. The setting of the story is beautiful and I can just imagine in my head what it would look like to be in Knife's Edge, Alaska, although it's probably not a real city I can imagine that many of the descriptions is how Alaska looks. I love the way this author writes her mystery and weaves it throughout the story. Yet again, I did not know who was guilty! For probably a few chapters I was curious about the person who is guilty however, Rebecca gets you so engaged with the story that you're focused on what's happening at that moment rather than little clues earlier in the book. The person I really thought was going to be guilty ended up not being guilty. I just love the way Rebecca Zanetti engages her readers, draws them into the point where we don't want to put the book down, and has a beautiful way with writing brilliant stories that stick with you! I would highly highly recommend this series and I cannot wait for the next book. I also purchased the audio version and listened to the book on Audible while reading on my Kindle and the audible version is excellent, the voice actor did an amazing job with the book. Whatever way you are able to get your hands on this story, you definitely will want to! Happy Reading!

[Lea Bookjoy · Rating 4 out of 5]

🇫🇷French & English reviews🇬🇧

📖Genre & Tropes📖 : Suspense romance x Small town in Alaska x blackmail plotx murder plot x grumpy hero x spicy

Ahhh enfin le tome sur le deuxième frère Osprey !!

Si le premier tome avait été une lecture agréable, j'ai bien plus aimé le deuxième tome avec Christian et Amka ! Les intrigues étaient tordues et bien ficelées (trop de mensonges et de tentatives de meurtre ><), les personnages attachants et la romance parfaite (personne ne peut résister à un héro protecteur grognon et badass =D)

Ca m'a presque donné envie de dormir dehors =D

Maintenant j'ai HYPER besoin des prochains tomes avec les deux derniers frères !

Bref, une romance à suspense sexy et parfaite pour la saison !


⭐~⭐~⭐~⭐~⭐~⭐~⭐~⭐~⭐~⭐~⭐~⭐~⭐~⭐~⭐


Ahhh, finally the book about the second Osprey brother !!

While the first book was a pleasant read, I enjoyed the second book with Christian and Amka much more ! The plots were twisted and well-crafted (too many lies and attempted murders ><), the characters were endearing, and the romance was perfect (no one can resist a grumpy, badass, protective hero =D)

It almost made me want to sleep outside =D

Now I REALLY need the next books with the last two brothers !

In short, a sexy suspense romance that's perfect for the season !

[Pamela Lilley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book 2 in this suspenseful series see Christian Osprey taking centre stage with his gorgeous husky wolf cross pup, Tika. Christian has kidded himself into believing he doesn’t have feelings for Knife’s Edge restaurant owner Amka Pinga, but we all know that’s a lie. Everyone that is except Amka. That said, Amka doesn’t make her life easy, she’s stubborn and extremely independent. Her life is being threatened, and Christian is doing his best to help her, sadly she’s not helping herself. She doesn’t trust easily. Lots of action, a real slow burn between Christian and Amka, and of course the mystery between the bodies turning up with missing eyes is still being investigated. Are the threats on Amka’s life real, or coincidental? Christian is determined to find out. He’s also accepted a new job, his first since he left the army. Christian’s life is changing, and he’s acknowledged that, the question is, can he accept it? I loved him, what a character. Got to say. I’m a big fan of the Osprey boys. I can’t wait for more. A great storyline, some great characters, and if you listen to the audio book, great narration - again, solely from Ava Flynn - she was brilliant performing both male and female characters. Highly recommend.

[JigsawGirl · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really dislike the whole "I'm not good enough, I can't give you what you want, I can give you what you need", aspect of a book especially when it becomes a repetitive element throughout almost the entire book. I liked Christian's character except for that. And for him to think at any point Jarrett was an acceptable option was ridiculous.

It took Amka forever to share her secret with someone who might be able to help. I was thinking at minimum she would talk to Ace or Daisy. I was so frustrated with her that I think I missed some things the first time. (I listened to it twice.) I was glad we were in spring and not the frozen tundra, lol. I think I was cold all the way through book 1.

I did have some people on my suspect list. The only thing was that they did not commit the crimes I had assigned to them, lol. They did other things. I still have a person on my list who I know is guilty of something, but it probably won't come out until Ace's or Damien's book.

I can't wait for the next installment in this series. There aren't cliffhangers, only.unanswered questions. Rating: 3.5 Stars.

[Darcy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book 2 in the series which could be read as a standalone. However, you’ll know the characters, town, what they are talking about with Hank and Flossy, and the connection with Amka and Christian if you read book 1 first.
Christian Osprey is 1 of 4 bada$$ brothers in the town of Knife’s Edge Alaska. He was in the Navy and doesn’t care to be inside 4 walls for very long at a time. He lives off grid and has a wolf pup with 2 different colored eyes like his. Amka is a bar owner who takes care of anyone that needs help. She is a sweetheart and without saying it… she and Christian have clicked. She is engaged to a real jerk. In this story you find out why. Christian takes it upon himself to protect her when things start happening. And it seems like someone is trying to kill Amka. Her and Christian grow closer as he saves her more than a couple times. Her fiancé has some issues. There are a couple of killings in this story that keep you guessing. It’s action packed and overall you love this group of small town friends.
The bad guys are a surprise you don’t see coming. There is a happy ending! I can’t wait for book 3.

[Michele A. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Christian and Amka have been orbiting each other for years. He can't figure out why she is engaged to Jarod, who it doesn't even seem that she likes. He realizes that she is in danger and steps in to protect her. He doesn't think he is good enough for her and tries to get her to see his reasoning. He is a man who likes to be outdoors and not couped up behind walls. She gets that about him and seems content not to change him. She realizes that someone seems to be trying to kill her. She can't figure out why. It seems there are quite a few issues at hand. Christian is dong all he can to protect her, but it seems like someone is really intent on killing Amka. When things go even more off kilter, Christian realizes that he is going to have to show his true feelings for her. Amka was a stand up woman who had no issues letting Christian know her thoughts and what she was thinking. She lets him in on what is really going on and knows he will do his best to protect her. At the end of the day, she has to withstand a lot to find out what is really going on. I can't wait to see what happens with Ace next.

[Brenda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Christian Osprey
Amka Amaruq

Christian prefers the wilderness to being around people. As a former Naval Special Operator he has been trained for isolation and rough conditions. He doesn’t need anyone but he always seems to like being around Amka the nice tavern owner who always greets him with a warm cup of coffee and a smile. Amka has spent her life being strong for other people even as her life implodes. She is trapped in an engagement with someone she doesn’t care for and as trouble starts she becomes the center. As trouble ramps up Christian is there to support her but can she trust him. There are multiple mysteries that unfold to be solved. You learn more about Christian and Amka as they fight the attraction they have for each other. Amka is a very strong woman who is loyal to her friends. Christian is equally loyal to those he cares about. This book can be read as a standalone but I recommend the first book and reading them in order. This book is a very good, fast paced book. I would definitely read more books by this author and can’t wait for book 3, Ace, to come out in April 2026.

[Meg · Rating 3 out of 5]

First of this series I have read and it was pretty good, just not as good as some of her other series.

Christian Osprey a former Navy Special Operator, lives in Alaska with his brothers and who avoids people. He loves isolation and spends most of his time outdoors with his wolf dog. Despite his avoidance he has a soft spot for Amka, the local tavern owner who is sweet and loved by the whole town. She is engaged to a real douche Jared, which no one can figure out as she doesn't seem to like him at all.

When Amka is nearly killed in an explosion Christian steps in to figure things out. The plot and characters were okay but they didn't really grab my attention. I did learn I NEVER want to live in Alaska lol. There are some murders from previous book that run in the background and will be continued in the next book (I didn't read book 1) the main story here is not related.

I LOVE the Anna Albertini series but this was more like her Laurel Snow series, a bit dark without humor, just more mystery and suspense.

[Jen · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️ 3 Stars

Thaw of Spring was a decent read with some enjoyable moments, but it didn’t quite hit the mark for me overall. Rebecca Zanetti has a smooth and engaging writing style, and I appreciated the seasonal atmosphere woven into the story. There were flashes of strong character dynamics and tension that kept me turning the pages, but at times the pacing felt uneven and certain plot points didn’t land as strongly as I hoped.

While the premise had promise, I found myself wanting more depth from the characters and a stronger emotional pull to really connect me to the story. Some parts felt a little predictable, and I struggled to stay fully invested in their journey.

That being said, it wasn’t a bad book—it had a few cozy, enjoyable moments and the writing itself was solid. It just didn’t leave a lasting impression. A middle-of-the-road read for me, but fans of Zanetti’s work may still find things to love here.