I should’ve stayed away from the two men who make me want to love again.
I came to Anchor Bay to escape the grief and guilt drowning me alive, never expecting to meet Liam, the sexy cowboy who makes me want to love again. He’s two decades older, bossy about my bad eating habits, and has no clue I’m still a virgin. Just as I’m ready to give us a chance, a tatted bad boy from my past and his lovable dog saunter into my vet clinic, determined to relight the spark from high school.
The two men are strangers, and both make it known that they want me. Can I have my dominant cowboy andchildhood best friend, or will they make me choose?
Between the unnerving calls and threatening texts, someone out there doesn’t want me to be happy with the two men who make me scream their names.
With the danger haunting me and the threat lurking around Anchor Bay, we’re all on edge, ready for anything.
Or so we thought.
Claiming Ours is the second book in the Anchor Bay series. Each book in the series can be read as a standalone (each book will have an HEA for the main throuple), however the mystery/case will continue through the full series and conclude in book 5. Please note this book does include two males and one female who will not have to choose between them.
Kennedy lives in Dallas, TX with her husband, 8-year-old son, and two Goldendoodles. A bookworm at heart Kennedy loves to snuggle up in bed, or by the campfire, with an unputdownable book. Her novels are stuffed full of humorous banter, the edge of your seat suspense, and enough steam for a great facial. If you like your heroines strong yet vulnerable and sexy, tattooed heroes who can't keep their hands off their leading ladies then this author is the one for you.
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I HATE the dead lover/spouse trope. It never works. So I can’t continue with this story. I also hate that the blurb and none of the reviews gave me a heads up. So I’m definitely rating this one. Sorry, not sorry.
This is a MMF Romantic Suspense, and this is the second book in the Anchor Bay series. I have read the first book in this series before picking up this book. I loved this book, and I loved all the characters. This was a great read, and I could not put it down. LOVE IT SO MUCH.
BEFORE I GET INTO ANYTHING ELSE: Some are listing this as MMF, but it's not. It is MFM with no ⚔️ involved. There is some questioning by one of the men as to if he may be into another man, but the other is clearly not. I'm just putting this information out there as I know some will be disappointed it's not MMF and others will pass on it b/c they think it is.
💗💗💗💗💗
“Just know one thing, Little Bit. I’m yours as long as you’ll have me. While you’re trying to figure out how you feel about him being here and him in general, I’ll support whatever you want. I know you won’t go behind my back and keep anything hidden like she did.” He looked at the sky. “What I’m trying to say is, if you find you have mutual feelings for him and want me, too, I’m here.”
💗Age Gap 💗Friends to Lovers 💗Small Town Suspense 💗MFM 💗Found Family 💗Grumpy x Sunshine 💗Romantic Suspense
💗💗💗💗💗
Liam, Baylee, and Memphis' story is technically standalone, but there is an overarching suspense plot connecting each of the books. While it's recommended to read in order, I'm personally starting here b/c the 1st book has a MMC who shares the name of my son. 🤣🤣
Baylee and Liam are living within a small community near Anchor Bay. The community is a safe place for those in the poly community and is a healing place for those dealing with traumas. Baylee is healing from the death of her fiancé 2 years ago while Liam's loss is much older and he's mostly past it. Enter Memphis, the best friend of both Baylee & her deceased fiancé. They hadn't seen each other in years, but had always had feelings towards each other.
Baylee & Memphis had both been curious about poly relationships when they were younger, and Liam had never truly thought about it...especially after having learned his deceased wife had cheated on him for years. But, Liam is NOT willing to let his "Little Bit" go and decides it's worth it. Surprisingly it works out quite well between them and the men almost immediately form a good friendship.
I will admit that I was completely shocked when we found out who was harassing Baylee throughout the book. I hadn't expected that at all. I will also admit that I'm still mad at the boys for keeping certain secrets from Baylee like she's fragile. She may still be healing, with their help, but she deserves the truth.
Thank you to The Author Agency for the ARC on this one!
It’s going to be hard to get through this review without writing I love a million times because I loved every second of reading this book and everything about it. The second installment of Anchor Bay has so many of my favorite tropes it’s like she snagged them out of my head. Her characters are well developed and so flawed and beautifully human. Baylee’s daily struggle with grief, Liam’s need for control, and Memphis’s addiction. Oh how I love Memphis and his easy comfort. That he was able to be the missing piece in this thruple. Poly relationships (like any relationship) are built on a solid foundation of trust and communication, which isn’t glossed over in Kennedy’s of these books. We get to see how each individual relationship progressed or rekindled. I found each of them to be very special, and I really enjoyed how the men connected. Is it spicy? Yes, of course! Very hot and very well written. Zero cringe. The series threat storyline is progressing nicely. We got another clue dropping prologue and more tid bits throughout. We also got to see more of the Anchor Bay cast of characters and some hints at which couples will be next! I love this community. This was my first ARC for Kennedy, but certainly not my first or last read. Forever a one click author!
Yasssssss! This was the perfect mix of romance/spice and suspense while also seamlessly tying in the underlying arc of the missing women from book 1. Absolutely loved the dynamic of Liam, Baylee, and Memphis. The chemistry was 🤌🏻 and the spice was HOT. AS. FUCK. 🥵🥵🥵🫠🫠🫠 I was not prepared. Chapters 15 and 16 though?! 😮💨😮💨😮💨 Also, why is open and honest communication so hot? Love when there is no miscommunication. The ending felt a bit rushed as plot points were getting tied up but I didn’t even care because the vibes were just 👌🏻! I’m going to need book 3 asap.
Claiming Ours is a thrilling, passionate ride that blends steamy romance with a deadly underbelly. The chemistry between them is everything I knew it would be, drawing me into a story filled with emotional depth, fierce loyalty, and heart-pounding suspense. I love how Kennedy masterfully balances romance and danger. I knew Liam and Baylee we're going to be explosive but adding Memphis into the mix nearly made my kindle catch fire 🥵 it made it so easy to fall in love with them, making each twist and turn even more gripping. If you love protective heroes, strong heroines, and sizzling tension, this book is definitely for you. I'm desperate to find out what happens, I can't wait for more. It's an unforgettable addition to the series. Highly recommended!
I am seriously on the edge of my seat about who is behind the crimes! I have a small list of subjects, and I’m getting more and more convinced one of them is the baddie.
The chemistry between Baylee, Memphis, and Liam was HOT!! They are probably one of my favorite trios in this series, as they all fit so well.
The book has all the steam, all the suspense, and made me ask the question of who is the baddie!
They were steamy, sweet, and just clicked with each other!
I cackled everytime Memphis called Liam his nickname for him!
I love this series so much and cannot wait for the next book!
In Kennedy L. Mitchell’s Claiming Ours (Anchor Bay #2), drowning alive after the death of her first love and fiancé, veterinarian Baylee Smith comes to Anchor Bay, Alaska, to escape her grief and guilt. She opens a vet clinic in town and becomes part of the Uplift community, never expecting to find one, let alone two, men who make her want to risk loving again. Liam is a bossy, sexy, older cowboy whom she befriends in town. Then, unexpectedly, her best friend Memphis unexpectedly walks into her clinic with his dog, Elvis, wanting to renew their friendship. Their connection and unexplored electric attraction from high school are still strong and fiery. Both men make it clear they want her. Can she have both Memphis and Liam, or will she have to choose between them? Bailey’s attempts to move on with Memphis and Liam are interfered with by menacing texts and disquieting phone calls, not to mention the ongoing danger of the unsolved disappearances of women hikers and the murders of their companions.
I enjoyed Claiming Ours more than #1 in the series. This story had more suspense and focused on the mystery/suspense throughout the novel. Mitchell’s writing and storytelling were more effective, drawing me into the story and keeping my interest because she balances the romance and mystery/suspense and includes more action. I also found the romantic relationship, characters, and their interactions more interesting. Mitchell’s down-to-earth, detailed writing and world-building create vivid images in your mind, making you feel present with the characters. Tautly written action and suspense scenes drew me in from the opening scene, keeping me invested in the story and the characters’ lives.
Two years after moving to Anchor Bay, Baylee is still emotionally broken and healing from her grief and loss over her fiancé’s death. A virgin, she’s on the verge of moving on with her friend Liam out of the friend zone. Brilliant, independent, and kind-hearted, she sees the good in everyone. Baylee desperately wants to live and love freely like her other friends in the Uplift poly community that’s become her home, but she’s burdened by guilt and shame. She’s having trouble letting go.
A stoic, intense, overly protective MMA fighter and retired army ranger, Liam has anger management and trust issues. In his 40s and of diverse ethnic heritage, he is Baylee’s complete opposite and needs to be in control. He prefers animals to people and takes care of the community’s animals. Liam supports Baylee, keeps her safe, and gives her space and time to heal. The attraction between them is strong, but he doesn’t push her to become intimate. He lost his wife in an accident. However, he was left to deal with grief and loss, plus her betrayal.
Shy, sweet, cocky, and sexy with a dominant streak, EMT Memphis is a bad boy with a traumatic past. Memphis was Baylee’s fiancé’s best friend. He’d been her best friend, too. He’s always taken care of and watched out for Baylee. Sometimes more than her boyfriend. He’d been drawn to her and had fallen for her back then. Even though she was forbidden and off-limits. Memphis treats her with respect, listens to her, makes her feel safe, and takes care of her. He still does.
The love scenes between Liam and Baylee, Baylee and Memphis, and the three of them are steamy, sexy, intimate, and funny. They remain in character. These scenes help evolve their relationship and the story. I love the hilarious banter between Liam and Memphis. Mitchell’s development of their relationship is well done. She reveals more of both their characters in these scenes and helps to develop and build the foundation for their throuple with Baylee. Each man brings something Baylee needs to the relationship while complementing each other. Mitchell subtly develops and builds chemistry and attraction between them, primarily from Mitchell’s side. But potentially from Liam too. Memphis satisfies Liam’s unrealized needs. Baylee, Mitchell, and Liam fear being hurt and left alone, but Liam also fears betrayal. I feel like we get to know Memphis and Baylee more than Liam. Aside from his trust issues, anger management, and darkness, what else is there beneath the facade that he presents to the world? I feel like either what we see is what we get, or Mitchell has merely scratched the surface of who he is, and Memphis and Baylee will continue drawing him out.
Mitchell dives deeper into the mystery of the women who have gone missing over the last year. The uplift community misses Caroline, digs into her disappearance, and puts pieces together. The suspect list grows with many red herrings, shady, and unlikable guys in town. So it could be anybody. I love the glimpses we get of the other throuples, and I’m excited for the other books. But I can’t wait to read Juno, Langston, and West’s book.
Claiming Ours is a suspenseful, steamy, funny, sexy, emotional, and fast-paced romance perfect for fans of friends-to-lovers, why choose, polyamory, age gap, found family, first love, small-town romance, and secret crush/love, pining, romantic suspense, mystery/thriller. It explores themes of self-discovery, grief/loss, finding home, and healing/recovery.
I want to say a massive thank you to The Author Agency and Kennedy L. Mitchell for the ARC of Claiming Ours!
Ever since attending MMM in Texas earlier this year and discovering Kennedy's books I've fallen down the rabbit hole. I started with her Protection series before finding and moving onto Anchor Bay. All I'm able to say is what a wild ride it's been.
Bailey finds herself in Anchor Bay after trying to escape the guilt and grief after loosing her fiancee. In doing so she meets the sexy older cowboy Liam who she's instantly attracted to, but nervous to give him a chance. Just when she's ready to make the leap with Liam- in walks Memphis. The tatted bad boy who is a blast from her past.
Both the MMCs are ones who would burn the world for her and protect her to their last breath, all while supporting her in her passions and independence. All three of them have their demons but they balance each other out perfectly- one never asking for more than another is willing to give.
When they find out the danger Bailey is in after finding out she has been getting unnerving calls and threatening texts- they do whatever possible to protect the love they have found.
The overarching arc of the missing women that Kennedy brought forth in the beginning of the series is never lost in the story of the individual couples in each novel. It's driving me absolutely insane because I'm so committed to finding out what is happening!
Kennedy has MASTERED the fine balance between romance (with hot and steamy scenes) and danger with mystery sprinkled in that leave readers salivating for more. I am on the edge of my seat to see what comes with the next novel!
Claiming Ours by Kennedy L. Mitchell is a thrilling, passionate ride that flawlessly blends steamy romance with a deadly underbelly. This second installment in the Anchor Bay series delivers an explosive love story and a gripping mystery that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
I was excited to dive into the story of Baylee, Liam, and Memphis, and their dynamic did not disappoint. The love story is a beautiful exploration of a polyamorous relationship where none of the characters have been in one before. It was compelling to watch them navigate this new dynamic together.
Liam and Memphis are the best kind of over-the-top heroes. They are absolutely devoted to Baylee, willing to burn the world for her, but they also prioritize her happiness and independence. While they each have their own demons to face, their love for Baylee helps them overcome any challenges. Baylee, in turn, is a kind and sweet heroine who finds love again after being consumed by grief and guilt.
The chemistry between them is everything I hoped it would be. I knew Liam and Baylee's connection would be explosive, but adding Memphis into the mix nearly made my e-reader catch fire. The emotional depth and fiery loyalty between them make it easy to fall in love with these characters, making each twist and turn even more gripping.
Beyond the romance, the novel handles the theme of grief with a gentle touch, allowing each character to process their pain in a realistic way. The murder mystery threaded throughout the series adds a layer of suspense that keeps you hooked, and I love how each book focuses on a new couple while advancing the overarching plot. The mind-bending "who done it" aspect, paired with the appearances of the sweet pups and ermine, adds a unique charm to the narrative.
Overall, Claiming Ours is a highly recommended and unforgettable addition to the series. If you love protective heroes, a strong heroine, and sizzling tension, this book is definitely for you. I'm desperate to find out what happens next and can't wait for the next book!
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Liam, Baylee & Memphis. This throple was everything.
Baylee, moving to Anchor Bay was her fresh start, after losing the man who was her everything. The one she planned on spending her life with. She has her would've and could've moments, the heartache and the guilt of moving on haunts her. Her light in all the darkness is her "situationship" lol...with Liam. But she wants more she's just terrified of losing everything.
Memphis, he fell into the wrong crowd, and addiction had its grip on him. But when he realised what he was losing he got the help he needed, and started over. His support system were his parents and his massive labrador Elvis. He goes to Anchor Bay to reconnect with his friend hoping to maybe be more!
Liam, ex military operative and former MMA fighter and now a farmer in Anchor Bay. He has his darkness from the years spent in deployment, and he has seen evil. He doesn't trust easily and prefers being surrounded by his horses etc. That's until he meets Baylee, she's his light in the darkness. Oh my god you guys! This throuple was everything. I mean everything.
From the grumpy cowboy who is also a former military & MMA fighter to the bubbly veterinarian who hides her pain, and the tattooed bad boy who is a golden retriever hero! Yes perfection.
I absolutely enjoyed the second book in this series, with a dash of suspense for what's to come in future books that have you needing more answers. The chemistry lit these pages up. The spice was 🔥🥵 and the possessiveness and protectiveness of both these men for their woman! 🔥🔥🔥 Liam though! Yeah...loved him 😍
Liam & Memphis bromance! Loved it.
𝐒𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬
Loved catching up with the previous couples. Langston, Juno & West! Gah...I. Can. Not. Wait. Oliver & Ethan & mystery woman!
This book had me hooked from page one. The suspense is masterfully woven, with just enough red herrings to keep me second-guessing my suspect list. Every twist made me lean in closer, and now I’m dying to see how it all unravels in the next installment. I have been practically interrogating my own notes trying to figure out who the baddie is since book 1! Baylee, Memphis, and Liam? Their chemistry is—steamy, sweet, and effortlessly magnetic. They just click in a way that feels organic and electric all at once. I couldn’t get enough of their dynamic, and honestly, they might be my favorite trio in the entire series. The emotional beats hit just as hard as the spicy ones, and their scenes together had me grinning, swooning, and occasionally fanning myself. Memphis’s nickname for Liam? Made me smile one of those huge obnoxious grins. It’s those little moments of levity that make the tension and romance pop even more. The banter, the inside jokes, the stolen glances—it’s all so well done. 💖 This series continues to deliver everything I crave: high-stakes mystery, unforgettable characters, and romance that sizzles and soothes. Each character brings their own flavor: grit, vulnerability, and charm. Together? They’re explosive. The tension simmers, the emotions run deep, and the chemistry is absolutely electric. From the grumpy veteran with a military past and MMA scars turned cowboy to the bubbly veterinarian who masks her heartbreak behind sunshine and sass, this trio had me hooked. And then there’s the tattooed bad boy—equal parts swagger and soft-hearted golden retriever—who steals scenes and hearts with every heroic move. I’m obsessed—and counting down the days until the next book drops!
Tropes you will love: Romantic Suspense Small Town MFM/Why Choose Age Gap THREE lovable furry besties Dominant Hero Second Chance at Love Pierced 🍆 MMC
Thank you Kennedy Mitchell for this ARC copy of Claiming Ours!
I am OBSESSED with Anchor Bay! Book 1 (Forever Theirs) was fantastic, and you continued on the all the amazingness to this book as well! So much so I CAN’T PICK A FAVORITE!!!
I loved the dynamic of the three MCs in this one, how first off Baylee was a Virgin! (I love how she accidentally announced it to the whole town), how Liam has been longing for Baylee and wanted to give her the space she needed to grieve her fiance (who passed away years before). To Memphis a friend from Baylees past who shows up in Anchor Bay.
These 3 never set out to be a throuple, but Baylee being curious about EVERYTHING, and both Liam and Memphis wanting her, the gave it a go! Watching them all form this bond/relationship when it wasn’t something that ANY of them had ever done before was fun!
I loved the different POV chapters too, you got a sense of how deep they all dove into the relationship. All three had their quirks and watching how everything unfolded with how badly they each wanted and needed Baylee to the teasing/joking relationship that formed between Liam and Memphis was bliss.
I LOVE how we got to see the characters from book 1 and also potential character match ups for the future books… I think I have an idea about the next two throuples, so I am excited to se where those lead.
Don’t get me started on this serial killer situation! OMG more details came to light but I feel like we might be getting slightly mislead in this one…has to be someone in town. Especially after that 🤯 Jasper bomb drop at the end of this book!!!
Tropes: 🐕Virgin FMC 🏔️Grumpy MMC (Liam) 🐕Troubled MMC (Memphis) 🏔️Touch her and die 🐕Longing 🏔️Spicy 🐕No Third Act Break Up
At the end of the series I think it would be super fun for a novella(?) of a catch up with all the characters! 🤭
"If you'll have me, Bay, this is the life I want, here with you. There isn't a life I want to live if it's not with you."
"I thought I knew love before all this, thought I'd loved with my whole heart, but I had no idea there was a depth of love where I felt with my whole body and soul."
"With all that I've done, all that I've yet to do, this, right now with you, is the favorite part of my life. Hands down, no competition."- Claiming Ours (Anchor Bay Series Book 2) By Kennedy L. Mitchell
Yes, this book. Gobbled it up in 2 days. Yes, yes, all the way. Yes. Kennedy did not disappoint.
You have the small Alaskan town of Anchor Bay, an all accepting poly community where all residents take care of each other.
This is Baylees' story. The town veterinarian who is recovering from heartbreak and trying to find her own way in this new town of hers. She starts seeing the grumpy cowboy who is so fierce and loyal and protective of her. Liam has his own demons, but he would give his life to protect his Baylee, his little bit. I can't tell you how much I love that nickname. Ahhh, I screamed.
But a ghost from her past comes into town just when Liam seems to be breaking down her walls and letting him in. Memphis is her ex fiancé's best friend, and also the man she always knew she could count on. Memphis has one goal in mind, and that is Baylee. So, how do we work this out? 👀 ekkkkkk!
The way these three protect each other, I can not handle it. You have all the suspense, angst, and hotness. With murders happening to women hikers in the area. I've had 1000 theories and still don't know. Lol, but I highly recommended this series and can not wait to see who the next throuple is. 👀 @kennedylmitchellbooks #claimingours #anchorbay #kennedymitchell #mfm #smalltownromance #romanticsuspense #booksandchatswithnickib #alltheangst
Um, yes, just yes and I wish that could be my whole review..
The second book in the Anchor Bay series, hits all the right spots.
The dynamic between Liam and Baylee, was perfect. The fact that Liam understands what Baylee needs not only because he is intuitive, but because he has a shared experience with the loss of a future he didn't get to have. I think that that connection really pulled me in to their storyline. It wasn't just that Liam knew, but that he actually understood what she was dealing with and the patience that he showed her every step of the way proved that., As much as he wanted everything with her, he was willing to take only what she would give when she was willing to give it.
The storyline between Memphis and Baylee was equally as engaging. I love a good friends to lovers trope and for these two it was done perfectly. While years had passed since they last saw each other, it was clear that before then they had a strong connection and that come through when they are reunited. You could feel their chemistry raidate off the page. The " Why/how did they wait all these years" was a constant thought while reading them.
I was not sure how the relationship between all three of them would come together. It was much different than in book one where the men were friends to begin with, here Memphis is the essential outsider and has no connection to Liam, other than the both of them beinbg interested in Baylee. The way that Kennedy brings them all together was perfect, using the curiosity both Memphis and Baylee had in the Poly community and Liam's willingness to give Baylee whatever she wants, I think was a great way to bring the together, also it doesn't hurt that both of them would burn the world down for her.
The spicy scenes were perfect blend of personalities. They were spicy and sweet. The banter not only between the three of them but also within their found family was excellent.The found family trope is my favorite and I love the way that this one has come together. I also really love when authors bring in couples from previous books to show us what they have been up to and give us a glimpse of who is coming next.
I am still trying to figure out the overarching suspence that MItchell is buidling up. The Suspence plot line that was started in book one continues here, but has been intensified. I have so many questions and hopefully we will get more answers in the next novel. I have theories though.
I cannot wait to see what she has in store for our next couple!
What to expect Age Gap MFM Small Town Alaska Poly Community FMC is a Vet Childhood Friends to Lovers Friends to Lovers Grieving FMC( Loss of Fiance) Romantic Suspense Found Family
The small town of Anchor Bay, Alaska seems so picturesque but there is danger lurking- while I usually love how the “bad guys” are usually caught in the span of a book I am loving this overarching plot! Kennedy has kept readers guessing and dropping red herrings…and I am loving it! Having met Baylee in the previous book I was so excited for her to get her heroes! Baylee most definitely is full of love for animals and has such a kind open heart. But she also is caring for her wounded grief stricken heart after losing her fiance. While the outside world might see Liam as a quiet grump he is a natural care taker. And has the softest spot in his heart for Baylee. I love how he was always looking out for her, making her lunches and just in general worried about her well being. While Liam has overcome his own grief it still pops up, and in ways that he might not expect. Memphis (and his sweet dog, Elvis) seemed a little adrift and looking for the place and people that he belonged with. Memphis had his own struggles and battles with grief, too. While Memphis and Baylee have a shared past, being back together seems to heal them both in a way they both needed. I love how Memphis is just so open- he is open minded, open about his past, and his feelings. I really love how these three characters' stories evolved. Friends to lovers is one of my all time favorite tropes and this one was done so well. Baylee might have brought the three of them together but very quickly Liam and Memphis formed a tight friendship and their love for Baylee was the foundation. These three really have something special between the three of them, and bring out the best in one another. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and cannot wait for more in the series!
This story captured and kept my attention from beginning to end. The emotions flow freely, and the sparks fly between the characters. You can expect plenty of feels, swoon and emotion.
I enjoyed the combination of simmering heat; the characters overcoming grief, heartbreak, and dependency struggles for another chance at love; some humor; and an ongoing suspenseful plot that has carried over from book 1 of this series. The suspenseful mystery surrounding disappearances of many female hikers which remains still unresolved at the end of this second book. The relationship between Baylee, Liam and Memphis is settled into a HEA.
Baylee is strong and independent young woman who is recovering from the heartbreak of her fiancé being killed while in the service. She’s moved to Anchor Bay Alaska for a fresh start as a vet away from all the reminders of their past in their small town.
Liam has been her friend the past two years as he patiently waits for her to want more. He’s a strong alpha protector with a tender heart for Baylee. However, the former rodeo cowboy, Army Ranger and MMA fighter is more than willing and very capable to protect what he claims as his.
Memphis comes to Anchor Bay to rekindle his friendship with Baylee with the hope of maybe something more. His humor and gentle spirit are surprising under all his bad boy tattoos and sexy outer layer. He is also very protective of Baylee and is intrigued by her ‘friend’ Liam.
These three form a strong threesome where both men are focused on Baylee’s happiness, safety and satisfaction. While together they learn some of their kinks work to satisfy all three of them.
I received a free ARC from the author and The Author Agency; and I am voluntarily leaving an unbiased review.
Heat this explosive should come with a hazard warning.
Kennedy L. Mitchell didn’t just deliver a romance—she threw us into a story that’s equal parts raw emotion, steam, and suspense. Baylee’s journey gutted me in the best way. She’s grieving, trying to rebuild, and suddenly she’s staring down not one, but two men determined to claim her. Liam? All bossy cowboy energy with that steady, grounding presence you can’t help but swoon over. Memphis? Tatted, cocky, and carrying the kind of history that makes you root for him from page one. And here’s the kicker—you don’t have to choose, because Baylee sure as hell doesn’t.
Now, let’s talk suspense. Kennedy has this killer way of weaving danger into desire, and this book proves it. The missing women case isn’t just background noise—it’s creeping in, twisting tighter with every chapter. I had theories. I tossed them. Then I circled back because every clue made me second-guess myself. That tension? It sits right alongside the heat, and holy hell—the heat. I’m talking pages smoking, Kindle in jeopardy levels of hot. The chemistry between Baylee, Liam, and Memphis isn’t just sizzling—it’s a full-blown inferno that lights up every scene they share.
And because Kennedy is evil in the best way, she drops just enough breadcrumbs to keep you obsessed with the bigger mystery. Every side character brings something extra (Memphis’s banter is perfection), and by the last page, I was grinning like an idiot and plotting how to survive until book three. Claiming Ours is fast, filthy, and full of heart—and trust me, you’re not ready for this Anchor Bay storm.
This second book is another emotional, raw, suspenseful, and sizzling romance in Mitchell's Anchor Bay series. Veterinarian, Baylee, moved to Anchor Bay to escape the heartbreak and guilt she felt after losing her fiancé. Ex Ranger, Liam has loved her from first sight, and this dominant cowboy with a soft heart, has waited patiently for her to finally be ready to move on, with him. He is also hyper vigilant to keep her safe with danger still lurking, and the unsolved mystery of the recently missing women. Just as Baylee wants more with Liam, an old friend of Baylee's arrives in Anchor Bay. Baylee and Memphis were close back home and were very attracted to each other, but never acted on it. Memphis is another alpha, protective man who fits in well with Baylee, Liam, and the community. As the three of them discover their shared desires, they are able to find their place in each other's lives and heart. But there is still a dangerous mystery in their area, along with a threat from Baylee and Memphis' past that puts them all at risk. I fell hard for Baylee, Liam, and Memphis, and cheered hard for their HEA! I loved the explosive heat, emotion and discovery between them. I also loved how Liam and Memphis helped Baylee blossom, as they built a beautiful family together. I loved getting to know their friends a little bit more as they all look out for each other and can't wait to find out more about them. I am so invested in this wonderful community where everyone is so excepting with who they love. Baylee, Liam, and Memphis's romance was so thrilling, emotional, and steamy, I can't wait to find out what happens next with these residents, and the mystery of the missing women!
“Just know one thing, Little Bit. I’m yours as long as you’ll have me. While you’re trying to figure out how you feel about him being here and him in general, I’ll support whatever you want.”
Welcome back to Anchor Bay, Alaska, a cozy small town with danger hiding in the dark. Claiming Ours is the phenomenal second book in Kennedy L. Mitchell’s new romantic suspense series. Possibly her best book yet, Kennedy heated up the spice, ratcheted up the suspense, and brought readers another smoking hot throuple. Baylee Smith is the adorkable girl next door and small-town vet with a heart of gold. Liam’s patient, no-strings, adoration for Baylee was heartwarming. Their friendship was sweet and their banter was top notch. Liam is a retired Army Ranger and former MMA fighter with a gooey cinnamon roll side he saves only for Baylee. Memphis is a broody, lovesick EMT hoping to reconnect with an old friend. Liam Wilson, Baylee Smith, and Memphis Thomas are a truly swoony trio. I loved how Liam and Memphis quickly built a deep friendship, both caring most about what was best for Baylee. Liam’s hot daddy, soft dom vibes were delicious, and made their natural dynamic during group activities even hotter. Kennedy’s writing blends charm, wit, suspense, humor, and swoon-tastic romance. I can’t get enough of the Uplift Adventure & Rescue community! Claiming Ours explores love after loss, the fluidity of grief, and the complexity and beauty of relationships. I cannot wait for the next book in this series!
*Thanks to Kennedy L. Mitchell for the advanced copy of this swoony book!
Claiming Ours is a thrilling story full of suspense, unwavering love and explosive chemistry that will have you devouring it in one sitting.
This is book 2 in the Anchor Bay series, bringing us Baylee, Liam and Memphis’s story.
Baylee is a kind soul that is struggling with the weight of grief, while she tries to heal she’s finding comfort in her passion as a veterinarian, and is slowly opening up to Liam, and exploring something new she didn’t know she was missing. Liam is a protective, yet jarred soul that carries the ghosts of the past but has found peace in Anchor Bay and once he met Baylee, he knew he couldn’t let her go and he will do anything to make her happy. Memphis is a tortured soul struggling with the regrets of the past, his path has brought him to reconnect with Baylee where he will find himself being part of a relationship he wasn’t looking for but needed to help him heal. But while they explore this new found relationship the lingering danger around Anchor Bay still breathing down the community, where the suspects are rising in every corner and new clues will be uncovered, but there is more than that heading their way trying to disrupt what they have.
Kennedy create another astonishing story. An MFM story of sizzling chemistry, unconditional love, survival and exploring new beginnings as the pieces come together while keeping the suspense until the very last chapter, keeping you in a type of cliffhanger since the main suspense plot will stretch out until the last book in the series.
Kennedy L.Mitchell building up the storyline of Claiming ours brilliantly. This story deals with MFM Romance where FMC Baylee is a widow. Liam and Memphis are the two central male characters to this story as Baylee finds love again. Claiming Ours is a brilliant and enjoyable tale of finding out one’s true nature. Baylee is a veterinarian which comes from her love of animals which are seen through pet ham ham and Elvis. Liam is a MMA fighter while Memphis is an EMT. Liam enjoys feeding Baylee while Memphis is her childhood friend which leads to a second chance at love as the three form their unusual relationship. Memphis is covered I. Tattoos but between him and Liam is the party that’s always wanted Baylee. The men find themselves in a position where she accepts both of them as a part of her future. Where the age gap comes in is the fact that Liam is older. While one can argue that Memphis is the he who falls first for Baylee due to their history of friendship. Tropes are small town romance, he falls first, second chance at love, to he her and die, age gap, small town suspense, grumpy vs sunshine, friend to lovers, good girl/good boy, and MFM. The character driven narratives are exceptional and dive deep into each character’s mindset. The plot is developed slowly but steadily as in entwined superbly. Kennedy L. Mitchell writes what for me was one of my must read romances of 2025. I recommend picking up Claiming Ours By Kennedy L. Mitchell, to read like the more complex romances this book delivers. Can’t wait for more to come from this author or series.
"Home is always with the people you love, who support and protect you. Your home is with me, Baylee, with all of us.”
Claiming Ours is the second installment in the Anchor Bay series, and it dives deeper into the suspenseful mystery surrounding the disappearance of women in a small Alaskan town known for its polyamorous community. At the heart of the story is Baylee, who’s still reeling from the loss of her fiancée and struggling to move forward with Liam—until her childhood best friend, Memphis, unexpectedly returns.
With both Liam and Memphis by her side, Baylee begins to rediscover a sense of belonging, safety, and emotional peace. Their connection becomes a sanctuary, allowing her to finally release her grief and take the first steps toward healing. But just as their fragile happiness begins to bloom, danger creeps in, threatening everything they’ve built together.
I especially loved how patient and tender Liam was with both Baylee and Memphis as they navigated the complexities of a relationship that was new to all of them. Their deep, emotional bond—rooted in shared trauma and intense feelings—felt authentic and powerful. The way they helped each other heal was beautifully written.
Layered with a slow-burning mystery that continues to unravel with each chapter, Claiming Ours delivers a steamy, suspenseful read that keeps you guessing and emotionally invested. I’m hooked—and I can’t wait to see what’s next in this gripping, emotionally rich series.
4.5 ⭐️ I really liked this second book in the series! The three protagonists — Baylee, Liam, and Memphis — are absolutely fantastic, each one distinct with their own personality and voice. Baylee’s journey really touched me: she’s carrying so much pain from her past, but her strength and resilience shine through as she slowly learns to open up again. Liam feels like the anchor of the group — always in control, patient, and supportive, always giving Baylee the space she needs to heal. Memphis, on the other hand, brings an energy that’s both protective and passionate, balancing out the trio beautifully. I loved how their relationship developed so naturally, from friendship to something deeper, taking its time and allowing Baylee to heal without pressure. It’s also beautiful how, even though Liam and Memphis don’t develop a romantic relationship with each other, they still respect and support one another for Baylee’s sake — and even in the spicy moments, they’re not afraid to interact and have each other’s backs. The scenes are written so well: intense, passionate, yet meaningful, always placed at the right time to highlight not just the heat, but also the deep emotional connection between all three of them. The mystery plot with the missing girls carries over seamlessly from the first book, keeping me hooked and adding the perfect layer of suspense to balance the romance. I can’t wait to see what happens next — both with the case itself and with the next throuple we’ll get to follow.
This was such a cute and sweet story of overcoming tragedy to find the family and love you never knew you needed or imagined you could have. What makes it even better is it is a why choose found family. Baylee has had a hard time overcoming the tragedy of losing her fiance. It has been two years and she feels like moving on is a betrayl even though she is longing to make her friendship with Liam turn into more. Liam knows her pain. He has been witness to a similiar tragedy and he is patient with Baylee. He knows she is his endgame and is willing to take whatever Baylee will give him. She asks for a sign that she should move on and in walks Memphis. He is the best friend of her fiance but was also her best friend back before life put them in seperate paths. He has always wanted her and is willing to do anything for Baylee. Even if it is only as friends. Liam and Baylee live in a community of people that are open to poly relationships. All three are willing and interested in the lifestyle. Can they make it work? Both men are possessive but over protective men. They both can give Baylee what she needs. Add in a whole lot of animals and it is one big happy family. She even has a pet wild ermine named Bam Bam. There are a lot of mysteries surrounding the town. Each book in this series is making the mystery grow but at the same time giving clues to the potiential to find out the truth. I cannot wait for the next few books to find out all the answers.
After Forever Theirs I have been so impatient for more from this community in Alaska & definitely more information about the women that have gone missing.
Baylee’s struggle with survivors guilt & mourning the life she thought she’d have has been keeping her from really living her life since she lost her fiancé. She has made friends in her community in Alaska & has tried to move on with Liam, but it’s been a very slow process.
Liam has the most patience, but honestly I think he fell in love with Baylee when he saw her for the first time & was willing to whatever he could to make her happy. Memphis was a wild card, but equally as devoted to Baylee. The three of them have all needed to overcome things from their past in order to make this new relationship work….and man does it work! 🫠 Also this one has so many cute animal cameos & I’m always a sucker for those!
I think at this point someone in town is definitely a part of the women that have going missing, and I have sooooooo many theories! Creepy doctor? Extra creepy resort manager? Bartender at resort who learns everyone’s plans & secrets? Coffee shop owner who has just been acting shady? I need to know what’s going to happen next & you can guarantee I’ll be reading the next book as soon as I can!
Thank you so much to Kennedy & The Author Agency for letting me read an ARC of this one! This series is amazing so far!
“Little Bit, don’t show me that tongue unless you’re planning to use it.”
I'm loving this series. I'm invested in finding out what is happening with the missing hikers. The male main characters had me chuckling. My favorite scenes with them was on the hike and when Liam keeps telling Memphis that he's a good boy. I can't wait to see how the Author wraps it all up. This is the second book in the series and while this book features a different couple than the first one I would still recommend reading book one first. In this book, we have Baylee, Memphis and Liam. Baylee and Memphis have known each other for a long time, but after a tragic event happens, they both ended up going their separate ways. They are both trying to get over what happened and after a few years goes by Memphis shows up and wants to be back in Baylee's life. Baylee is still trying to get over what happened and she slowly getting to her place to where she feels that she can move on. She wants to be with Liam, but she is scared of fully committing to another relationship because of the fear of something happening. Lucky for her Liam is a patient man and understands why she needs to take it slow. Baylee and Liam have been somewhat dating for a while now and just when they start to become more Memphis shows up. And seeing him brings up memories and feelings for Bailey. And she realizes that she wants both Liam and Memphis. Can they make it work?
Tropes: 🔥 Friends to lovers 🔥 Why Choose 🔥 Loss of a significant other 🔥 Small-town Romance 🔥 Suspense Romance 🔥 Found Family 🔥 Has a dog 🔥 🌶🌶
I didn't realize until after I had gotten this book that it was the second in a series. So, that's my fault for not researching further before committing to reading it.
I loved the mystery side of the story and will have to read the others in the series to find out more because that part of the book ends on a cliffhanger.
Baylee is a sweet character, kind, caring, and working through her grief. There are times when she is almost infantilized by the author and the men in her life. She's younger than Liam, small, petite, and anytime she tries to be assertive and firm, Liam and Memphis react like they are watching a 4 year old try to take control. So that got a little irritating at times.
I liked both Liam and Memphis, though I'm still undecided on how I feel about this type of relationship dynamic. I liked how protective they were, and I liked how they both loved Baylee in their own unique ways.
I loved the Uplift community, and the way all the characters have made a family for themselves.
I just don't know if I would have liked the story as much if it weren't for the mystery plot. The romantic relationship was less interesting to me than that part of the story, which was odd because I love the romantic side of most stories.
I'm trying to figure out how to tell you what I think about this book. Claiming Ours is the second book in Kennedy Mitchell's Anchor Bay Series. This book is about Baylee, Anchor Bay's vet. Baylee is struggling with intense grief at the loss of her fiance. Liam is her neighbor and friend who wants to be more than friends. His patience is the stuff of romance novels! But they are precious together. A stranger comes to town and is noticed because of the tattoos on his head and the facial piercings on his pretty face. We spend a little bit of time trying to figure out who he is and whether or not he's a threat. Memphis and his buddy Elvis are anything but...Memphis an old friend of Baylee's. Now our duo is a threesome and they are smokin' hot. While these three are becoming a "they", the town is still reeling from the disappearances of several woman. Thus the suspense in our romantic suspense. There are so many questions and so many suspicious characters. Just when I think I've got a suspect in mind someone else does something shady and I'm back to square one. I'm hooked. I need to know who's doing this and if they are doing it alone, and if not, who's in on it and why!!! I need to know who's going to end up with Hank (the husky)....I'd take him ...just send me a message! Thanks so much Kennedy Mitchell and The Author Agency for the ARC. I'm even more invested now and have to have the next book!!!