Service

Central Cities #2

by Claire Kent

I never set out to be a leader. I only fought to survive in a cruel, broken world. But now I lead a rebel group, plotting and acting against the oppressive Central Cities government. It's important work, and it's the only thing that can matter to me.

At my right hand has always stood Ben. He's my second, my advisor, my friend, and often my bodyguard. He's never let me down. But something is changing. He's wanting more. From me. From us. But yielding in this would disrupt our mission and possibly our world.

He's always at my side, but he can never be in my heart.

Genres: Romance, Post Apocalyptic, Dystopia, Survival, Apocalyptic, Forced Proximity, Ebooks

302 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 8, 2026

About the author

Claire has been writing romance novels since she was twelve years old. After teaching English at the university level for several years, she started writing full-time under two different pen names. She lives in Virginia.

Her early books are sexy contemporary romances filled with heat and real emotion, but with the Hold series she transitioned to science fiction romance. Her current books are steamy post-apocalyptic romance set in the near future after a global catastrophe. They feature smart, resilient women trying to survive in a new chaotic world and falling in love with strong, gruff, taciturn men.

Claire also writes softer contemporary romances as Noelle Adams,

Reviews

[Carvanz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my heart! This story got to me in a way I honestly wasn’t expecting. No, I haven’t survived a meteor strike, but I have survived hard seasons in my own life, and something about Annabelle’s quiet determination and emotional resilience just hit me straight in the chest. This author has given me a heroine unlike any before and there are literally no words to express how she made me feel.

Ben and Annabelle’s relationship had a quiet emotional intensity running through every scene, where so much of what mattered wasn’t always spoken out loud but was deeply felt. Claire Kent writes devotion better than almost anyone I’ve read, and Ben embodied a steady, unwavering presence perfectly. He gave Annabelle space to lead, to fight, to make impossible choices, while still being the one place she could finally let her guard down. That balance between strength and vulnerability in both of them made this feel incredibly real and emotionally layered.

Add in the extraordinary world building, danger, drama and spice and this book is now my new top favorite by this author.

Single POV\
Safe no ow/om drama; h not a virgin; H not a player
Triggers while this is a harsh world, I did not come across any of the most common triggers
Steam 5 /5 ; explicit

[Jessica White · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reading a Claire Kent novel is like falling straight into a storybook, with twists and turns lurking around every corner, but also with lots of adult time. And once they start, they’re going at it like rabbits. So basically, you get the best of both worlds.
I really enjoyed Service. It’s set in a post-apocalyptic world focused on a female-led rebel group against the oppressive Central Cities government. Throughout the storyline we learn how Annabelle came to be in power, who Ben is to her as bodyguard and a little bit about some of the other rebels in their group. The world building is done so well that it’s easy to feel like a part of Annabelle’s group, and to feel like this type of environment could be plausible in the near future. Service was written as a serial with only a chapter released each week, allowing for quite a bit to happen over a short span of time. Annabelle and Ben’s relationship develops like this as well. They’ve known each other for quite some time, but a few key acting moments as a couple has Annabelle curiously questioning if something has been there all along.

As this is single POV, we are inside Annabelle’s head for the duration of the story and yet I never felt this was lacking in regards to Ben’s feelings towards her. I myself read this slowly, as if it was a serial and I enjoyed the quiet buildup of plot and romance. I also wasn’t kidding about the sex. So many scenes that I couldn’t attempt to count; once that floodgate is opened, why wouldn’t two consenting adults enjoy each other? I think this would be an easy Claire Kent to begin with because it gives you a sense of her writing style and its post-apocalyptic without being too out there to follow along. I am very curious to know if Robin has a book and if not I’m sure he will have a role in another. If you like female centered love stories even when the world is falling apart, you’ll enjoy Service. I received a copy from the author. All opinions are my own.
🌟🌟🌟🌟.5

[TJ ☾ · Rating 3 out of 5]

i was looking forward to this book but it felt a bit anticlimactic? ben and annabelle have been partners for 7 years and are leading a rebellion together. should be exciting stuff but they just randomly decide to fuck one day and that's that. very little buildup.

not much development in the central cities plot line either. i thought they'd make more progress or have a better operation going. even their backstory together was kinda boring. my expectations were the real problem but i just assumed there was gonna be more to them somehow. i'm still intrigued by the central cities plot line tho and hope its expanded

[What Helen Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 stars, 2.5 on the spice scale.

This is book two in the Central Cities series and part of the wider Kindled universe, and it has some lovely connections to books from other series, including the fact that Annabelle (our heroine in this story) is the sister of the heroine from Ashes, a book I adored, so seeing her again was a real treat.

Anyway, the plot for this one is quite simple. Annabelle left her husband (from the central cities) and took the opportunity to travel with Ben (her bodyguard of sorts) out into the Wilds. There, they’ve been building a resistance movement to fight back against the corrupt government.

Interestingly, Annabelle is the leader while Ben remains her fiercely loyal bodyguard. He's always encouraging her, always protecting her, always at her side. In this book, they make good progress in their mission and along the way their relationship shifts from companionship to something physical, and eventually to love.

As always, Claire Kent’s writing is fully immersive. I love this world, and she continues to walk that delicate line between showing the trauma of a post‑impact society and still giving us a romance that feels tender and hopeful. Annabelle has to make some genuinely tough calls, and not everyone wants her to succeed, so there’s a bit of political tension. But I never truly felt like these two were in danger.

This is a solid instalment in this series and I'd absolutely recommend it. The characters are great, the worldbuilding continues to shine, and it’s another satisfying piece of the larger puzzle.

*Thank you to the author for an ARC of this title.

[Maria Rose · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've enjoyed all the stories in this dystopian world created by the author, with their strong heroines, and this one is a great followup to Ashes (different series but same world), with the sister of the heroine in Ashes but set several years later. In Ashes, we met Annabelle as a woman who had married someone in the Central Cities to get away from her village life. But in this story, we find out at the beginning that she left her husband and ran off with her bodyguard Ben. Now she's a key member of the resistance taking aim at the government. Ben is in full support of everything Annabelle does and while they have a strong and loyal friendship, it starts to veer towards new territory with an unbidden (and at first unwanted by Annabelle) sexual attraction. There are spicy scenes (as with all the books in the series) where sex is uncomplicated and raw. Emotions follow after and happy endings always come with a risk, but are worth it in the end. I'm finding the juxtaposition of the first few years after impact with these books set forty-plus years later really interesting in how society has developed and I'm looking forward to more of the worldbuilding and relationships as the series progresses.

A copy of this story was provided by the author.

[Evelyn Morrison · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC provided and forever grateful 🥰. Claire did it again! I’m absolutely loving this spinoff series and how she is connecting it to the Kindled series and her other Fairy Tale spinoff. Talk about world building.

I especially love how she blends spice while maintaining a clear storyline and depth to her characters and their development. It’s like having your cake and eating it too.

I will read whatever this woman writes and I’m so looking forward to Hooded later this summer.

[❥ KAT ❥ Kitty Kats Crazy About Books · Rating 5 out of 5]

「⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 Star Review...」 ☀︎ SERVICE ☀︎ Is the second post apocalyptic book in the (Central Cities) series, by author Claire Kent, but can definitely be read as a standalone. This is Annabelle & Ben's story.

📚'𝙼𝚈 𝚁𝙴𝚅𝙸𝙴𝚆 𝙰𝙽𝙳 𝙾𝚃𝙷𝙴𝚁𝚂'📚 can also be found on my blog:
╰┈➤KITTY KATS CRAZY ABOUT BOOKS

Tropes:
❥ Strong heroine | Leader
❥ Hidden identity
❥ Friends to lovers
❥ Bodyguard
❥ Post apocalypse
❥ Touch her and die
❥ Action | Ambushes

As part of Claire's mailing list, each week she would send chapter by chapter of this book, wanting to savor it, I waited until the perfect opportunity fell in my lap, that being a power cut, no outside distractions, mean't that chapter by chapter I devoured this, reached the epilogue and god I just craved more. Falling over a bit of a cliffy left wondering what was going to come next for these two..

And then I found out that when published included will be an extended version of this novel..Thank god for that because I need to know what happens next..I'll definitely be buying the published version..

After the asteroid hit earth forty-six years ago, the impact was devastating wiping out the center of the continent. The Central Cities enforced a government system onto the citizens within the walls.

When Ben & Annabelle first met, Ben was hired by her then husband as a bodyguard when she married him at twenty-three because her husband was moving up the ranks rapidly. And also to keep tabs on her, basically to keep her in line, He was cruel and controlled every aspect of her life, she hated him to her very core.

So when the opportunity arose for her to leave, she took the bullet by the horns and ran with Ben as he was going back to the wilderness where he was born and raised. They spent a year there, and every available moment he taught her how to fight, shoot, hunt, drive and to strategize like a commander.

Sometimes it gets exhausting-
to always make the decisions,
to always hope they're the right ones.

Ben has been Annabelle's right hand man for seven years as an enforcer of the rebel group she leads. And now the right time has come for Annabelle to infiltrate the Central Cities and bring them down.

This had everything my heart desired, the slow burn, the survival aspects, the ambushes, the worry that one would get hurt or worse, these two were perfect and I was so looking forward to getting more of these two.

This author is the one which sent me down that unforgiving path of post apocalypse fiction, there's never an author that can scratch that itch like this one can. The setting, the danger, the heroine's and hero's which always leave their imprint on our very beings.

Email ಇ Twitter ಇ Instagram ಇ Blog ಇ Facebook ಇ Amazon 
ಇ Pinterest 

[Jody Lee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Annabelle is a rebel leader, fighting against the oppressive Central Cities government. Ben is the man who was her bodyguard while she was married to a Central Cities functionary, and is now her best friend and trusted right hand. We've seen women lead in this Kindled world, but often it is because of who they were pre-Impact, or leading other women. Here we have a woman in charge in much the way others have taken up that mantle, because they have the spark and the charisma and the willingness to carry the burden of leadership. But to be the leader she needs to be, Annabelle can't let herself be soft, she needs to be hard and sure, "sharp and bright and wound as tightly as a bow." We see how Annabelle attracts her first follower Vella and can extrapolate from there how she inspires loyalty and sacrifice from others.

Ben and Annabelle have been together for seven years, leading and working for the rebellion. It’s so great to have this long history and deep knowledge between the characters, since nearly everyone else in this universe is a near stranger when they meet and get involved. Here they are best friends and partners, until one day after an attack she falls apart a little, and the relationship shifts. "Then that there’s a heart beating near my ear. Maybe it’s mine. It feels like mine." Then it's a matter of finding balance between loving a person and carrying out the cause, "But I do have to be careful. I can't be soft. I really can't. Not if I want to continue in this fight."

I love the way Kent handles this dynamic, since it's not one we've come across before in this universe. It's a challenge to the reader to have an FMC who is cold and unemotional when she needs to be, with a MMC who loves and supports unconditionally, even though the gender flip of this dynamic is one we accept unthinkingly. There's a real understanding that the cause is more important than anything, and that she, as its figurehead and inspiration is more important than he is, and they constantly need to balance her need to lead and fight with that knowledge and her safety. "Some people end up at the center of larger change in the world. They're the hinge of a turning point, whether they want to be or not. You're one of those people. So if something happens to you, it won't just destroy me. It will change the world for the worse."

The Central Cities series is set in the Kindled universe, but takes place decades after that setting. We've seen Kent link this generation characters to the OGs, and also this series is woven into the universe in a way that makes it work as a stand alone, but rewards the regular reader. Annabelle is the sister to Teresa from Ashes, her plans for the set piece battle are possible because of Gabriel from Devotion, and of course The Wilderness, couched by Central City leaders as dangerous and uncivilized is the community around Holbrook where many of our Kindled characters have settled, and still reside as parents and elders.

I'm loving the details of how the central cities administration changed the common usage of Impact to The Fall, giving their new civilization where they are in charge and have all the power and authority and life is set up for their comfort and pleasure a sort of biblical inevitability. We've heard about and seen the highly censored and sanitized puritanical existence for the masses, while the elites have set up a literal system of constant unchecked intimate indulgences for themselves. In both Devotion and here we see the contrast of vocabulary and traditions from pre-Impact being used in other communities, while Central Cities regime has changed words and thought; Dad to Father, holidays and birthday and wedding celebrations being erased, basically all ceremonies celebrating bonds other than to the state being discouraged. Kent has done a great job of showing the societies both imposed from the top and created from within in this world almost half a century post Impact. She's created this universe of different eras and settings, with multiple entry points and connections for the reader. One doesn't have to commit to reading 15 books to understand the world or enjoy them, but a rich environment is there that supports the experience completely.

Thank you to the author for an arc.

[hungrybookworm.reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

“𝑩𝒆𝒄𝒂𝒖𝒔𝒆 𝒔𝒐𝒎𝒆𝒕𝒊𝒎𝒆𝒔 𝒊𝒕 𝒈𝒆𝒕𝒔 𝒆𝒙𝒉𝒂𝒖𝒔𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈— 𝒕𝒐 𝒂𝒍𝒘𝒂𝒚𝒔 𝒉𝒂𝒗𝒆 𝒕𝒐 𝒎𝒂𝒌𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒅𝒆𝒄𝒊𝒔𝒊𝒐𝒏𝒔, 𝒕𝒐 𝒂𝒍𝒘𝒂𝒚𝒔 𝒉𝒐𝒑𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒚’𝒓𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒓𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕 𝒐𝒏𝒆𝒔. 𝑻𝒐 𝒂𝒍𝒘𝒂𝒚𝒔 𝒉𝒐𝒑𝒆 𝑰’𝒎 𝒏𝒐𝒕 𝒅𝒆𝒔𝒕𝒓𝒐𝒚𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒐𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝒑𝒆𝒐𝒑𝒍𝒆’𝒔 𝒍𝒊𝒗𝒆𝒔 𝒘𝒊𝒕𝒉 𝒄𝒉𝒐𝒊𝒄𝒆𝒔 𝑰 𝒎𝒂𝒌𝒆.”

“𝑰’𝒎 𝒏𝒐𝒕 𝒈𝒊𝒗𝒊𝒏’ 𝒖𝒑. 𝑰’𝒎 𝒈𝒐𝒏𝒏𝒂 𝒃𝒆 𝒓𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕 𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒆— 𝒂𝒕 𝒚𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝒔𝒊𝒅𝒆, 𝒉𝒂𝒗𝒊𝒏’ 𝒚𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝒃𝒂𝒄𝒌— 𝒘𝒂𝒊𝒕𝒊𝒏’ 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒕𝒐 𝒕𝒓𝒖𝒔𝒕 𝒎𝒆 𝒂𝒈𝒂𝒊𝒏. 𝑰’𝒎 𝒈𝒐𝒏𝒏𝒂 𝒅𝒐 𝒃𝒆𝒕𝒕𝒆𝒓. 𝑰’𝒎 𝒏𝒐𝒕 𝒈𝒐𝒏𝒏𝒂 𝒉𝒐𝒍𝒅 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒃𝒂𝒄𝒌 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒘𝒂𝒚 𝒂𝒈𝒂𝒊𝒏. 𝑭𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕𝒊𝒏’ 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒊𝒏𝒔𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒄𝒕 𝒕𝒐 𝒑𝒓𝒐𝒕𝒆𝒄𝒕 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒊𝒔 𝒈𝒐𝒏𝒏𝒂 𝒃𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒉𝒂𝒓𝒅𝒆𝒔𝒕 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝑰’𝒗𝒆 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓 𝒅𝒐𝒏𝒆. 𝑩𝒖𝒕 𝒂𝒔 𝒉𝒂𝒓𝒅 𝒂𝒔 𝒊𝒕 𝒊𝒔, 𝑰 𝒈𝒐𝒕𝒕𝒂 𝒍𝒆𝒕 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒃𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒘𝒉𝒐𝒍𝒆 𝒚𝒐𝒖. 𝑪𝒂𝒖𝒔𝒆 𝒊𝒕’𝒔 𝒂𝒍𝒘𝒂𝒚𝒔 𝒃𝒆𝒆𝒏 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒘𝒉𝒐𝒍𝒆 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝑰 𝒍𝒐𝒗𝒆.”


I went into Service without reading Devotion, so I didn’t have full background on Annabelle and Ben. I’ve only come across them when I read Ashes. Surprisingly, it was still easy to follow even without that full context. That said, I do think reading the first book would help me understand the politics more.

What stood out to me most is Annabelle herself. She’s a strong and capable leader of the rebels fighting against the oppressive Central Cities government, but she’s also carrying a lot of emotional weight. She made a mistake in the past by marrying a Capitol administrator half her age, and that choice still affects how she sees herself now. There’s this internal conflict where she doesn’t feel like she deserves a second chance at love and that really shapes her character throughout the book.

Then there’s Ben. Honestly, I don’t even know how to properly describe him. He gave me that quiet, protective energy but also soft in a way that made their dynamic work really well. He was initially hired by her ex-husband as her bodyguard, but now he’s her right hand and someone who has always stayed close to her in every way possible… until things start shifting between them.

What makes this book interesting is the tension between duty and desire. Their relationship isn’t just about romance, it’s tied to leadership, trust and the risk of disrupting everything they’ve built especially when personal feelings start interfering with their roles in the rebellion.

I also found myself wanting more of Robin, there’s something about his character that really intrigued me and I hope we get his story in future.

But what I really love the most was the moment I figured out Ben’s parents, that genuinely got me. I kept thinking the dog’s name but couldn’t place it at first. Then when everything clicked, I was like oh my god it’s them. It felt nostalgic in the best way. Having familiar characters from earlier books now older, with families and legacies made this post-apocalyptic world feel so much more expansive. It honestly made me want to go back and reread Last Light and the Kindled series.

Overall, Service is very character-driven, emotional and pretty action-packed with just the right balance of tension and heart.

Thank you so much to the author for the opportunity to review this book in advance. I originally read this in a chapter-by-chapter email format weekly, so it was really nice to experience it again as a complete story.

[jess · Rating 5 out of 5]

“You can stay strong with everyone else, but you can be soft with me.”

Review: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️

For seven years, Annabelle has dedicated her life to the rebel group opposing the Central Cities government. By her side has always been Ben - her bodyguard and best friend, who has supported her from the very beginning. And as it becomes clear that he wants more, Annabelle has to figure out if she wants to open her heart, after being so strong for so long.

We got a peek of Annabelle and Ben in Ashes, and even then I remember their connection and situation being one that I hoped would be explored (even as a note in other books, so I was so thrilled when we got the news about Service!) It was so awesome to follow along in the mailing list, and even more so to read their full story here.

Annabelle is such a badass. The way she's so strong as she handles being the rebel leader, and it was so cool that we got scenes where she actively handling a situation and deescalating (or escalating - depending!) conflict and showing just why everyone respects her. And there's moments that show how that pressure effects her - both in the physical (which Ben helps soothe, and god - those moments!) and the emotional, which were such tender moments.

And Ben - he is absolutely a man you want by your side. His "yes, ma'am"s always got me and you can feel the way he yearns and is just so happy for whatever piece of her she'll let him have. The moments of wanting and jealousy had me kicking my feet (and of course rooting for them & hoping they'll find a way to be together!)

The plot will keep you hooked as well, the different ambushes and characters in their rebel group were fascinating and I enjoyed that we were thrown into the action with Annabelle and Ben. Along with some familiar faces at the end - I absolutely got choked up, that was so awesome. 💖

Claire Kent never misses, and this has to be one of my favorites yet. Service is definitely a book I can't wait to reread!

Tropes & Tags:
🌳 post-apocalyptic / dystopian romance
💖 she's the leader, he's the bodyguard
🌳 "yes, ma'am"
💖 soft only for him
🌳 friends to lovers
💖 it's always been you
🌳 touch her & die

[I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review, thank you so much Claire Kent! 📖]

[Sabrina · Rating 4 out of 5]

Tropes:
- Dystopian (but actually dystopian with battles and action).
- She’s (Annabelle) in charge, Leader of the group.
- He’s (Ben) her bodyguard and right hand man.
- Rebels against the regime.
- Touch her and die.
- “Yes ma’am”.


This is part of the Central Cities series but is closely linked to Post-Apocalyptic Fairy Tales series book Ashes as Theresa is the sister of Annabelle. Ashes is 39 years after Impact and Service is 46 years after Impact. It is also related to the Kindled series. Spoiler - Ben is the son of Layne and Travis from Last Light!! I loved seeing the update of their lives in this book!
This book was originally a serial Claire wrote in her newsletter which I had read and I had noticed that she had added more to the book and made some changes. Mainly more around the Robin character so I have a feeling he will get his own book!

This book is really action packed and involves a rebel group working together to try to undermine the tyrannical, oppressive regime they are currently under. So be warned, we see fights, battles, action, violence and some death. The death is very minimally on page.
This couple Ben and Annabelle have known each other and been friends for many years. He was hired to be her “bodyguard” by her husband who Annabelle married to escape her crappy home life in her village. When Ben decided he wanted to return to “The Wild” where he grew up, he offered her a chance to leave and Annabelle took it. After that, it became apparent to Annabelle she wanted to do something about what was happening in her country and rebel against the regime. So together they created a rebel group. Ben was always right beside her, believed in her, supported her and saw her irrepressible spirit and highly respected it.

The book starts with them having to pretend to be a couple so they can attack an outpost. They had to kiss in order to be realistic and this feels like the changing factor for Annabelle to see Ben in a romantic light. As you read the book you see that Ben was always in awe over her and over time fell in love with her and decided he will take whatever she is willing to give him. She sadly, built a fortress around herself and her heart which is why the main conflict in this book is about her allowing herself to be with Ben.

What I loved about this book was Ben’s unflinching devotion for her. He was in love with her and decided she was it for him. Even if this meant he could never actually be with her but he committed to being whatever she needed. This love and devotion slowly over time is what starts to crack her fortress and allow him in.

I did find the “betrayal” a bit much. I get she is annoyed with him but lord did she make a thing of it. He acted on instinct and love. He didn’t mean anything malicious by it. That poor man suffered! This was due to her being abandoned by her mother, her father dying, and her having to be so hyper-independent from a young age. She couldn’t allow herself to let go but Ben was trying to provide a safe haven for her. I’m glad they were able to overcome this conflict.

Overall, I enjoyed this immensely. I took 1 star off because there was a lot more action in this book than I personally prefer. But that’s my preferences and not a slight on the book. I would highly recommend this book if you’re looking for action, high spice (and very good spice at that), dystopian rebel attacks and world building, and also if you’re invested in Claire Kent’s other series as they all work seamlessly together.

Many thanks to the author for the ARC. All opinions are my own.
Apologies my review is late, I’ve had three migraines in the past week!

[romancelover · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC kindly received by author, opinions are my own.


It’s no secret I love this author so much and will read anything she publishes, even if it’s her grocery list lol
That being said, I liked this but it wasn’t a favorite. I think this was a little less slow burn than other books. They kissed quite quickly and the progression to feelings felt a bit quicker than usual as well. Also, I would have loooved the angst of seeing the FMC and MMC building up tension while she was still married to her first husband, it would have been yummy. But this was a time jump, which made sense for their story too, I was jst expecting to see them from the beginning like we got glimpses of in book 1. For those reasons, I’d say a solid 4 stars. The writing was phenomenal, as usual. I loved the MMC, and their dynamic of the FMC being in charge. That was super unique. I loved her too, she was very brave. However, for me personally this one had more plot relative to romance, which can def work for some readers. So if you’re someone who likes the political intrigue of plot (specially rebel groups against a dystopian corrupt government), u’re gonna love this. I think for myself it was a combination of loving the more character driven plots and being in a huge mood for more romance right now that prevented this from being a 5 stars. But again, if you’re a reader who appreciates the former, this book is for you!! And I’ll still buy the paperback once it comes out to support CK bc I love her to death. She’s super reliable and a fast writer to spoil us with so many good books. So for sure will be adding this to my collection, even if it wasn’t a favorite in this series.

But if u havent read her books or this series yet, what are u doing??? This is dystopian done right! It has the somber mood of a serious post apocalyptic event, but balanced with the sweet angst of romance that leaves u happy in the end, not perpetually depressed like some dystopians out there. So if I could leave you with one suggestion, it would be: read this, and read more works from this author! ❤️

[Anna · Rating 4 out of 5]

“Service” by Claire Kent

4⭐/5⭐
3🌶/5🌶

“This man has always been everything I’ve needed, and that’s exactly what he is to me right now.”

I’m always on the lookout for a well written bodyguard romance, and this book checks all the boxes.

“Service” is an interconnected standalone in the Central Cities series, a set of books adjacent to the Kindled series. Do you need to read any of those stories prior to this book? Technically, no, it stands on its own. But if you want those emotional moments, the ones that make you gasp and reread the last couple of pages to make sure you *really* read what you thought you read? Yes, you absolutely should check out all of those previous books.

Annabelle is the stoic leader of a group of rebels, constantly working towards dismantling the nefarious Central City administrators. She’s a capable leader who has earned respect beyond her group, and has a keen instinct on making snap judgement decisions in high stress situations. By her side is Ben, her former bodyguard turned platonic companion. It’s apparent from their first interaction on-page that he harbors deeper feelings for Annabelle, and will stop at nothing to protect her. He respects her, defers to her, and seems to know her better than she knows herself. When Annabelle finally realizes the complicated feelings towards Ben are no longer platonic, he’s more than willing to open his arms and receive whatever she’s comfortable expressing.

It would be easy to call Annabelle a prickly FMC. She has a firm grip on her emotions, and rarely lets anyone see beyond the façade she maintains 99.9% of the time. But one of those people she lets in is Ben, and he’s the perfect person to hold her together when all she wants to do is break down. I think Annabelle is totally justified in being hesitant to open up to others, she’s seen first hand how dangerous it is to be a vulnerable woman in this cruel world.

Just like the book’s title, Ben is always at Annabelle’s service. He adores her. She is the center of his world; nothing else matters. His endless devotion towards her took my breath away.

I about lost it during the final few chapters; there are so many big reveals and moments, I was audibly saying “ohmygod!”. Trust me, it’s epic. Claire Kent solidified herself as an auto-read author a long, long time ago, and she continues to capture my attention with every book she publishes.

[📚Brandy🪼 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Characters: Annabelle and Ben


Trope: post apocalyptic (46 years after the fall), friends to lovers



🚨Content Warning 🚨
(📓Annabelle and Ben were first introduced in the book Ashes so you definitely should read that book before this one, just to give you more backstory into how these characters were first introduced, also read Devotion before this book, because that is the first book in the series.📓)
ADDITIONAL content warning: attempted assassination, murder, attempted kidnapping


Annabelle and Ben have been working together as a team trying to keep the people at their compound and other neighboring villages safe, as well as taking down the government faction that has been around for years. Annabelle has been the leader and Ben her right hand man. They have kept their relationship professional, but lately things have changed and soon they get into a sexual relationship.
Their relationship gets even more complicated when the feelings they have been suppressing for years bubble up to the surface.



My Thoughts: Another good installment from Claire Kent, you have two characters that are trying to be strong for the others around them, but you can see that after how many years, they really needed something to help keep them from breaking down. Annabelle trusts Ben completely, so he is willing to give her more when she makes the first move sexually. I truly feel like Ben would have silently waited for Annabelle forever if it meant staying by her side. He was her rock, someone she can lean on when needed and who taught her how to fight.
Also had the end of this book I cried, because two characters that Claire Kent wrote about in her kindled series showed up as Ben’s parents. I was so happy seeing them again 🥹😭. Also another character showed up at the very end 🥹

[Nikisha · Rating 3 out of 5]

Read if you like: bodyguard romance, she’s the boss and he’s her right hand man, road trip, he falls first

This was easy to read and engaging! This felt different to the other books Claire has written as it has more political intrigue.

Ben has been Annabelle’s bodyguard and enforcer for 7 years. He’s quiet, protective and caring. Annabelle is a badass leader of a rebel group, she’s resilient and when she sets her mind on something she follows through. I love how she’s used to being tough, but Ben makes her feel soft and wanting more for herself. I love the way he always has her back, he’s been supporting her for YEARS and has always believed in her.

IMO the fight was unnecessary and she was blowing it out of proportion. She’s definitely got her guard up and looking for excuses to not get close to Ben. I don’t even see what he did wrong lol. Good thing they make up super quickly so their third breakup doesn’t really exist (my most hated trope)

Overall I liked Ben but I didn’t vibe with Annabelle that much. I would’ve loved to see more pining from Ben and emotion/affection from Annabelle. I didn’t feel like she was that into him. I felt like things progressed quickly, they hooked up early on in the book and while I know they’ve been by each others side for 7 years - I wish we got flashbacks and actually saw it happen.

My favourite parts were seeing Theresa and Mason and what their future now looks like, and other unexpected cameos had me squealing 🥹💗 I really hope Robin gets a book!!

Not my favourite book of Claire’s, but still a solid read and I had a good time!

Thank you Claire Kent for this ARC

[Bookphenomena (Micky) · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars

Headlines:
Rebellion
Friends to more
Easter eggs

Service felt a little different to the previous book in the Central cities series. It was about eight years on from Devotion and Annabelle was a completely different person in the now. She had grown in confidence, leadership and determination. She led a band of rebels against the corrupt government, causing acts of disruption. This story centred on a bigger plan for this rebel leader.

At Annabelle's side was Ben, her bodyguard from the time in capital and not much had changed. He still guarded her but their relationship had become a deep friendship, sharing planning and leadership to a smaller degree. I loved the premise of this story that had a female leader strongly guiding everything that happened.

Family were in the background and occasionally front and centre. Fans of these interconnected series have some brilliant easter eggs waiting for them in this story. My eyes leaked at one part where we got something special (yes, I'm being purposefully vague).

The plot was rich, the friendships deeper and the romantic connection and intimacy felt like destiny for these two.

Seeing the post-apocalyptic world from Kindled decades on presents quite a changed landscape. I love having this long term view of the how the world found it's footing, good and bad.

Thank you to the author for the eARC.

[Lilyya ♡ · Rating 4 out of 5]

this is another winner by Claire Kent. she’s definitely become one of my go-to authors, she has this ability to write the most stressful, high-stakes post-apocalyptic stories, yet make them feel oddly comforting.. like something you turn to when everything else feels overwhelming. Service was no exception. i absolutely loved it.

i had been intrigued by Annabelle and Ben when i met them in previous books by the author, and seeing more of the bodyguard and his protegée and how she became a powerful, influencing woman who leads a rebellious group was everything and more. i knew i needed their story with the previous installment in the series , and it did not disappoint.

Annabelle was such a strong character. everything she carries, everything she builds for herself, her resilience, her determination, i loved every part of her journey. and Ben, the knight in shining armor, i’m just so glad they found each other. even if it took time.

their relationship felt earned, and that’s what made it so satisfying. alongside that, the story had that perfect balance Claire Kent always delivers; tension, survival, a touch of adrenaline, and those intimate, toe-curling moments that make her books so addictive.

and that final easter egg? i loved it.

overall, this was such a beautiful, immersive read, and i can’t wait to see whose story comes next in the series.

many thanks to the author for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review!

[Megan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you Claire Kent and her team for the ARC!

After leaving her husband several years ago, Annabelle now leads a rebel group against the oppressive Central Cities government. Ben has been with her through it all—her right hand man. As their group plans to infiltrate the Central Cities, Annabelle and Ben's relationship starts to progress into something more.

I loved Annabelle and Ben's dynamic from the beginning. Annabelle is a strong and resilient FMC—I loved that she was in charge and you could feel how much everyone respects and admires her. This made her relationship with Ben feel so special, knowing he was her silent support, her protector in the background.

Service really leans into more political intrigue. The survival aspect is prominent, the stakes are high, but as always the story is a perfect mix of action and romance. And if you're familiar with the Kindled series, you're going to love the cameos in this one!

"I'm not only committed to this fight. I'm committed to you. So unless the day comes when you wanna kick me out the door, I'm gonna be standing exactly where I've always been—at your right hand."

Service is the second book in the Central Cities series but can be read as a standalone.

Tropes and Themes:
Post-apocalyptic romance
Single POV
Take Charge FMC
Bodyguard / Protective MMC
Rebellion

[Amber (Amber Reads Romance) · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️.5

Service is the 2nd book in the Central Cities series and it takes place 46 years after the asteroid hit. You can read it as a standalone, but I do recommend reading some of the Kindled series. I loved how this one dealt more with the rebellion against the corrupt Central Cities government and what was even better, it has a strong heroine leading the rag-tag group of rebels.

Annabelle decided to fight against the Central Cities after she left her controlling husband with her bodyguard, Ben. They have been building their forces for the last 6 years and are about to begin a high risk mission to take over the armory. Ben has always been her right hand man and one of the only people she can depend on. They have always been super close, but now things are starting to shift between them as they realize there is so much more between them.

Ben is another favorite Claire Kent hero for me. This man is so protective, supportive, and devoted to Annabelle. He knows her better than anyone else and just wants to be there for her in any way he can. He be a golden retriever, but he is also a strong partner. The amount of praise Ben provided was EVERYTHING!!!!

Adore him.

This book brought back my all-time favorite couple from Claire Kent's post-apocalyptic series which made me so happy. Just seeing some of the familiar characters provided the perfect ending to the book.

Thank you to Claire Kent for providing the ARC.

[MaddMoxxie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was NOT supposed to stay up all night reading this… and yet here we are 🖤📖

As a longtime Claire Kent reader, this book felt like coming home in the most emotional, nostalgic way. The little nods to past stories?? I ate them UP. Seeing Travis and Layne thriving (my forever favorites from Last Light 😭), and Rachel and Cal - HAPPY 85, OLD MAN 🖤 - absolutely wrecked me. I didn’t expect to get teary, but honestly I should have known.

And then there’s this story…

Annabelle?? A full-on boss babe. Sharp, powerful, unshakable. I LOVE a heroine who knows exactly who she is and doesn’t bend. But what really gets me every single time with Claire Kent is her men.

Because Ben???

Gritty. Steady. Quietly powerful. He’s not the strongest presence in the room - Annabelle is - but he is her strongest presence. He’s not just beside Annabelle - he’s behind her, anchoring her, protecting her, believing in her with this deep, unshakable devotion that just makes your chest ache. Her safe place. Her strength. Her tree with roots that go miles deep.

The balance between them was EVERYTHING.

This book didn’t just hit - it launched itself straight to the top of my favorites list. No hesitation.

Nostalgic. Emotional. Beautiful. Devastating in the softest way.

I’m not okay… and I don’t want to be 🖤✨

[Heather · Rating 4 out of 5]

The buildup for Ben and Annabelle’s story has been a long time coming after their appearances in Devotion and Ashes and it was worth the wait. In Devotion you get a very clear picture of how controlling and corrupt the Central Cities have become whereas Service is more focused on the people fighting back and trying to make a difference. Service is also quite a bit more action and scheming heavy but it suited the characters perfectly.

Annabelle was strong, a little rigid, and absolutely dedicated to her mission of helping people fight back against the Central Cities. I admired how deeply she cared and her willingness to set everything aside to achieve her goals.

Ben has been by her side since the very beginning. He helped her escape her controlling husband, taught her to defend herself and supported her when she said wanted to fight. You can feel how deeply he loves and admires Annabelle without expectations or demands.

“‘How ‘bout this then?’ He says at last. ‘You can stay strong with everyone else, but you can be soft with me.’”

I loved seeing their dynamic shift to more than friends and all the pitfalls that came along with it.

This was a great installment in the Kindled universe and as always I can’t wait to see where it goes next.

Thank you to the author for the ARC.

[Stephanie | ReadWithSnicks · Rating 5 out of 5]

this dystopian world that Claire Kent has written just keeps getting better and better! While this book can be read as a standalone,, it’s impact (lol) it’s so much better if you’ve read all the interconnected stories before hand This is book two in the Central Cities series, 40ish years after the asteroid impact that devastated the world as we know it.


I LOVE when the FMC is the boss and in charge, and Annabelle was in top form in more ways then one - as the rebel group leader, she is carrying it all on her shoulders but by her side is Ben, the once bodyguard hired by Annabelle’s former husband who now is Annabelle’s partner and protecter in all things.

I especially loved their communication together and Ben’s stoic way of making sure Annabelle was given choice in all her decisions. Masterful and powerful 🥹

I loved so many of the callbacks to the Fairytale retelling stories (Teresa 🥹) and Kindled series, and just like in Devotion (book 1 of Central Cities), I was so thrilled to get glimpses of some of our previous main characters 😌

Read if you like…
Tropes:
🖤 Strong heroine | Leader
🖤 Hidden identity
🖤 Friends to lovers
🖤 Bodyguard
🖤 Post apocalypse
🖤 Touch her and die

Many thanks to Claire Kent for the advanced reader copy of this book 🥰

[Heather · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well, I didn't expect to get all the feels while reading this book, but I did, and it was wonderful!! I love this branch off to the Kindled world as we move into a more dystopian feel while still getting all the goodness of the Kindled world. I thought this was a fabulous read. It was quite action-packed from the start as well, we get to see a lot more of the rebel activity and get a better feel for how the new government actually is. I feel like we are set up for a few more books now, too, and I can't wait!!

Ben, our MMC, was such a massive protector, having saved Annabelle from her marriage and then continued to stay by her side for so many years. I loved this about him until he stepped over a line, and then I wanted to shake him. But he makes it up and does right by Annabelle. They were such a great couple together.

Annabelle, our FMC, was such a great strong lead, which she was always going to be as leader of the resistance. But I loved seeing her softer side with Ben and leaning on him the way he's wanted for a while. We really get put through our paces with her emotions because they are so well written. Strong to the rest of the world and soft and vulnerable with Ben, it was just so perfect.

5 ⭐️
3 🔥

[vicki.reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5/5🌟
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Pub date: May 8💕

This is my favorite Claire Kent book yet! From the storyline, to the characters, to the relationship, to the Easter eggs! I loved every second. If you've been a long time fan, you're in for a treat.

➕
- Annabelle leads a rebel group in fighting against the tyrannical Central Cities government. Ben, her right hand man and bodyguard, has always been steadfast by her side. After years, things seem to be changing between the two. But will they have to sacrifice everything for the revolution?
- This is my favorite CK couple. Annabelle is a tenacious and brave leader and Ben is the devoted and immovable force behind her. I love their fun banter, sweet intimacy and vulnerably candid conversations.
- Perfectly paced with a satisfying balance of action, political intrigue, and character/relationship growth.
- All of the cameos! I don't want to spoil anything, but eek! The nostalgia hit me hard and my heart is so full 💕. I just adore this post apocalytic world that CK has created.

Thank you to the author for sending me an eARC. All opinions are my own.

#bookreview #clairekent #service #postapocalyptic #romance

[Mary Lynne · Rating 5 out of 5]

God, Service is so darned good. I love seeing Kent bounce between time periods in her dystopian world, returning to an oppressive society that’s resulted 45 years after the asteroid hit that changed the world. This time, we don’t see the inner workings of the Central Cities but the protest movements against it.

I liked that Annabelle was the unquestioned leader of this rebellion and that Ben was perfectly happy to be her support. Annabelle found purpose in working against the central powers, and Ben has been her steadfast ally ever since they left the Cities together. But something is simmering between them, if they’re willing to explore it.

Kent shows the inner workings of a guerilla operation in this story, and it’s vital in portraying how Annabelle’s efforts are a series of small steps rather than a grandiose takeover. The story is chock-full of Kent’s marvelous sensual scenes, and I was particularly amused at how Annabelle and Ben think they’re hiding their relationship when literally everyone around them knows what’s going on.

Seeds are planted for further stories with this group, and I for one can’t wait to see where Kent takes this series next.

[Ági Fekete · Rating 5 out of 5]

non-spoiler review!
ooh I ate this one UPP!!

the Central Cities series just keeps getting better!
♡ FMC: competent, independent, beautiful
♡ MMC: bodyguard, tall, quiet but a sweetiepie

Service tells the main characters' friends-to-lovers story, which slowly develops as the book progresses. in some parts it is more plot focused than romance, but it matches their personalities and circumstances very well. there's amazing political intrigue, survival, (found) family and more!

as always, the MCs feel like real people with realistic traits and reactions.
spice was yummy as usual, perfectly timed and in the "explicit open door" category.

I just love how the Claire Kent Universe keeps expanding, there were some really nice and touching easter eggs for those who have read previous series from her. one of my favorite guessing games is trying to figure out who the next MMC will be, and I have a hunch already ;)

thank you SO MUCH for the eARC, i'm eternally grateful and feel so honored ♡

[Christi (christireadsalot) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Service is book 2 in the Central Cities series. This is a dystopian romance from Claire Kent, following a rebellion where the heroine is in charge and the hero is her second-in-command. I always have the best time with this author’s books and flew through this new one!

Annabelle and Ben! It was fun seeing their story play out after seeing them make an appearance in a previous book from this author. Annabelle is leading an organized rebellion within the Central Cities, the story kicks off with her and her team in the middle of a mission. This book had lots of action from the start, lots of dangers right around the corner for Annabelle, Ben, and her team. I liked how he’s so protective of her and she’s only soft for him. Their connection was great, he wants to be around her to support her at all times. The ending was great and seeing lots of moments/characters that bring the Kindled series back in (if you’ve been a longtime fan like me, you’ll love it too).

I received an ARC, all thoughts in this review are my own.

[Shruti Gupta · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25⭐️
Okay, like all other Claire Kent's books, I really liked this one too.

The fact that the FMC was the leader of a group and the MMC was the bodyguard had me SCREAMING.

I honestly loved this entire book from start to end. The only reason it wasn’t a more highly rated book was the smut. I don't read smut and it got too much for me which was totally a ME problem. However, despite the smut, the plot was still very much present and it was totally high stakes.

And I specifically love how Ben was so down bad for Annabelle from the start. I briefly met them in Claire Kent's other book, Ashes, and was immediately eager to know more about them.

'He gives me a leisurely smile, still on his knees at my feet. “Yes, ma’am.” '

' “I’m not givin’ up. I’m gonna be right here—at your side, havin’ your back—waitin’ for you to trust me again. I’m gonna do better. I’m not gonna hold you back that way again. Fightin’ the instinct to protect you is gonna be the hardest thing I’ve ever done. But as hard as it is, I gotta let you be the whole you.” He gives me a ghost of his old warm, dry smile. “’Cause it’s always been the whole you that I love.” '

I also really loved the moments between Annabelle and Vella and I'm hoping to see more of them in the upcoming books!

'The woman nodded. Smiled. “I’m Vella. I didn’t know it until right this moment, but I think I’ve been waiting for you for a long time.” '

[Ikwi Bookreviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read this book when it was serialized, then again as an ARC—thanks to Claire Kent for the free copy! Annabelle is the baddest of badass heroines, a skilled fighter and a successful leader of the rebellion against the regime in Central Cities. Ben is the most loyal, devoted romance hero you can imagine, tough and gruff and absolutely at Annabelle's service in whatever way she might need. The book had a fair bit of action (treason in the rebel ranks, attack on Central City military targets, etc.), as much as the most dynamic novels from the Kindled series. Ben started the book already in love, but Annabelle took a bit of time to thaw and catch up. Ben's being her safe place and the only person she can afford to be soft with was a really lovely aspect of their relationship. A solid Claire Kent book.

[Kerry · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just adored this! I am a sucker for a bodyguard romance, especially where he falls first. Ben's devotion to Annabelle is so heartwarming. Annabelle is such a strong heroine, and I really loved the partnership that she and Ben have. He understands who she is and does what he can to support her. The action in this book felt different than in others from this world, and I loved seeing how this group of people coming together was able to accomplish so much against the corrupt government.

The emotions here were intense, and I felt everything right along with the characters. I cried more than once, and I appreciated how the ending softened some of the pain they endured in this story. I loved every moment of this book, and I hope that we get more in this series! I would love to learn Robin's story!