Tarnished Hands

Chained Hearts Duets #7

by T.L. Smith

A short story in the Chained Hearts Duet.

Piper's story.

*can be read as a standalone*

Genres: Dark Romance, Novella

190 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 15, 2025

About the author

USA Today Best Selling Author T.L. Smith loves to write her characters with flaws so beautiful and dark that you can’t turn away from. Her books have been translated into several languages. If you don’t find her in her home town of Queensland, Australia you can usually find her travelling around the world to sitting on a beach in Bali, to exploring Alcatraz in San Francisco or walking the streets of New York.



Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/authortlsmith/
Instagram - tlsmith1313
Twitter - @LsmithT
Tiktok - tlsmith.13

Reviews

[Patricia (Spellbound Stories Trish) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Piper and Ezra were an unexpected surprise but one that I loved.

This story was an easy read and I loved the connection between them. I love that Ezra let Piper be who she is and didn’t try to change her, he just wanted to love her.

I wish we got a little more time with them getting to see them grow as a couple because the ending felt a little rushed. Overall though I loved their story and how possessive they could be with each other which I know is not necessarily a good thing but with these two…it just made it a lot more intriguing.

[Shannon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kindle Unlimited: No
Stand-alone: Yes***
Author: T.L. Smith
Rating: 5/5 ⭐️
Spiciness Rating: 3.5/5 🌶
POV: First Person Dual Perspective
Main Couple: Ezra and Piper
Trope(s): Dark Mafia, Opposites Attract, Morally Grey Men

Well hello Chained Hands Series, I have missed you. If you have read the series you are probably just as excited as me to revisit old friends. If you are new here, jump in, you can thank me later. Piper is all fire and ice. Ezra is not as simple as he appears. He appreciates Piper’s strong will, it makes her submission to him even sweeter. Everyone around them can see what Piper is trying like crazy to deny.

Ezra runs his own business specializing in old cars and motorcycles. He also may help out the mob. Putting Piper in his path.

Piper has grown up around powerful men. In fact she works for one of the most powerful men in New York, Keir, who just happens to be her cousin. She has more than earned her place in their world however.

One night giving into their attraction. What was supposed to be a meaningless one night stand.

Piper tries keeping Ezra in check.

Ezra isn’t the man you attempt to keep in check. Piper likes to think she is one of the most dangerous people in the room. Well, Ezra has a whole life lived she has no idea about.

And, he can wait Piper out.

Because she may say all she wants is sex.

But, he’s playing the long game, she just needs to realize it.

[Isabella Grace · Rating 4 out of 5]

“𝓢𝓸𝓶𝓮𝓽𝓲𝓶𝓮𝓼, 𝓘 𝓽𝓱𝓲𝓷𝓴 𝓲𝓽’𝓼 𝓽𝓱𝓮 𝔀𝓪𝔂 𝓱𝓮 𝓵𝓮𝓽𝓼 𝓶𝓮 𝓫𝓮 𝓶𝓮 𝓪𝓷𝓭 𝓭𝓸𝓮𝓼𝓷’𝓽 𝓽𝓻𝔂 𝓽𝓸 𝓭𝓲𝓶 𝓶𝓮, 𝓸𝓻 𝓽𝓱𝓪𝓽 𝓘’𝓶 𝓷𝓸𝓽 𝓽𝓸𝓸 𝓶𝓾𝓬𝓱 𝓯𝓸𝓻 𝓱𝓲𝓶. 𝓘 𝓷𝓮𝓿𝓮𝓻 𝓯𝓮𝓮𝓵 𝓵𝓲𝓴𝓮 𝓘’𝓶 𝓽𝓸𝓸 𝓶𝓾𝓬𝓱 𝓯𝓸𝓻 𝓱𝓲𝓶 𝓸𝓻 𝓽𝓱𝓪𝓽 𝓘’𝓶 𝓸𝓿𝓮𝓻𝓹𝓸𝔀𝓮𝓻𝓲𝓷𝓰.”

If T.L. Smith writes it, I’m reading it. No question! This is the 7th book in the Chained Hearts series. And it’s Ezra and Pipers story. It is a novella so it’s a spicy, quick read…but it’s PERFECT for Ezra and Pipers story…

Piper is one bad a woman and I LOVE HER! 😍😍 she takes no 💩 from anyone. Shes a hard working woman in a male dominated field and she is a force to be reckoned with. Ezra is a mechanic that works with Piper and her family and associates. He isn’t as heavily involved but when they need a hand, he’s ready and willing.

Ezra has had his eye on Piper for a long time. So when she finally gives him a chance for a one night stand, he takes it. Only problem is he wants more…and she’s not willling to let herself be vulnerable in that way.

Both of them are dominant in and out of the bedroom…wanting to be the alpha. Ezra loves that about Piper…her loves how feisty and assertive he is…but he makes sure she understands that in the bedroom, he’s in charge. And that’s final 😍😍 Piper doesn’t mind and lets him take control. But after that one night of passion, she finds herself missing him and wanting him in a way that she’s never wanted anyone before.

There’s a lot of push and pull here. Ezra helps Piper realise that she can open up to him and be vulnerable without being weak and keeping her fiery spirit. I loved watching their relationship unfold and develop 💛

Thank you so much to T.L. Smith for the amazing opportunity to be on their team and ARC read this amazing book 💛

❤️‍🔥Novella
❤️‍🔥Dark Romance
❤️‍🔥Mafia Romance
❤️‍🔥Dominant MC’s
❤️‍🔥Mafia Boss FMC
❤️‍🔥Mechanic MMC
❤️‍🔥Protective Hero
❤️‍🔥Independent Heroine
❤️‍🔥SPICY
❤️‍🔥Dual POV
❤️‍🔥HEA

[MissPetiteBrunetteBookBlog · Rating 5 out of 5]

Piper works for the big boss & her cousin, Keir. He does some business with a man Ezra that Piper was with one night but Ezra definitely wants more. Can this head strong woman living in a man’s world find she can also find love? This is a great shorter read in this mafia world. We see all our favorite’s including on of mine, Lucas! Get ready for a steamy and heated ride! Told in first person and dual POV.

[BooksbyKim98 · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am ABSOLUTELY OBSESSED with Piper 😍 She is such a badass FMC. Ezra and Piper are definitely my favorite couple so far I just absolutely love them and think they are a match made in heaven.

[Tiffany · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 out of 5 Stars
3 out of 5 Spice

Tarnished Hands is a small novella that is a part of the Chained Hearts Duet series by T.L. Smith. This is book 7. Normally, I recommend reading the book in order so you can understand the background characters that appear in the current book, but you know what? Your girl failed to read any of them. I want to thank T.L. Smith for having me as part of her ARC team and allowing me to read this amazing book.

This lovely Novella is about Piper and Ezra, who I am sure made guest appearances in a previous book. Both characters are pretty much in love with being in charge, in and out of the bedroom. In the end, it seems Ezra gets his way more because Piper is so into the Spice. They each are the best they've ever had.

Piper just wants the spice, no attachments, but Ezra wants a bit more. Eventually, he is able to break her, and she allows him into her life.

It is a great, quick read if you need something fast.

[Wendy Livingstone · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the seventh book in this awesome series, and this is Ezra and Piper’s story.
Piper is feisty and sassy, and does not need anyone in her life, except for her family, which brings out her softer side. Ezra is patient and possessive about Piper, and he has wanted her for a while now, and he gives her something she did not realize she wanted. These two complement each other perfectly.
This is a well written story, with family, friendships, emotions, action, tension, romance, push & pull, humor, witty banter, combustible chemistry, and love, which leads to an entertaining, an unpredictable, page turner.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.

[Laura Reads Too Much · Rating 5 out of 5]

A new addition to the Chained Hearts series and we get Piper & Ezra's story.

Piper is one badass mofo who works for Keir and is on even keel with the rest of the guys as far as danger, violence, mob status and sharpshooting goes.

As for Ezra, he's a mechanic who helps the guys out when they come calling and who also has some serious eyes for Piper! However she's determined to keep him at arms length.
When family calls and keeps him away, will she finally realise what she can lose..

Really enjoyed it. 4/4.5

[Tammy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Damn ive missed the Chained Hands gang!
And im so glad they are back i always hoped we would get more Piper and it didnt disappoint! We all know Piper takes no shit and we love her for it, she will happily pull her gun the second you annoy her
So can Ezra work his way into her heart?

I mean obviously. That man 🫠 yes please

"Sometimes, I think it’s the way he lets me be me and doesn’t try to dim me, or that I’m not too much for him. I never feel like I’m too much for him or that I’m overpowering"

cant wait to see what comes next

[My Reading Era · Rating 4 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed this fast paced novella focused on Piper and Ezra. Piper is a bold, fiercely independent woman who thrives in a male dominated world, never backing down and never compromising her strength.

Ezra is immediately drawn to her unshakable presence and captivated by her intensity, her deep loyalty to her family, and her refusal to soften her edges for anyone. With protective cousins and a life rooted in the mafia, Piper keeps her walls high, but the chemistry between her and Ezra is undeniable and electric. Ezra is the perfect match for Piper's strong willed personality.


Thank you, T.L. Smith for the ARC.

[Donna · Rating 4 out of 5]

I don't really do Novellas a lot. Especially when a character gets their story, as they are a bit wham, bam, thank you, mam! But I really enjoyed this. I think it's because we know the characters and know about them already. This book was a great look back into this series of duets, and finally, Piper has her story.

Ezra was all that Piper needed. He was her equal in public and let her sassy and badass ways shine. But in the bedroom, he took command. Piper became his to bend to his will. They were a total match. Because Ezra was just as crazy as she was under his calm exterior, he showed the world.

I'm so glad this was written, and I couldn't recommend it more.

[Dnx · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well, I know it will be a duet, and it is not ended, but how freaking cute were they?
Lucas was so nice and badass at the same time. I loved him. I was absolutely feral and ate everything up.
I couldn't wait for Piper's book. She definitely deserved one. And Lucas is the right fit for her.
And the spice 🤌🤌🤌
I can't wait to get more of them.

[Rae · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️

I thoroughly enjoyed Piper & Ezra’s story!

Piper, working for the family business, is a feisty, devious and dangerous lady.. till she meets Ezra’s who’s closer to her equal than she thinks and can’t stop having the best 🌶️🌶️ of her life with.. Ezra, who works at his mechanic shop and side job with Pipers family, needs to show Piper just how willing he is to make her his partner in the bedroom and out the bedroom.. but can he persuade her? I’ll let you find out!

It’s steamy, hot, and leaves you wanting more!
Definitely recommend this to anyone who’s in their spicy dark reads
Cant wait to read more from the author!!

[Books, Booze & Bon Voyage (Krista Webster) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Tarnished Hands by T.L. Smith is book seven in her dark, mafia Chained Hearts series. It is a novella about the romance between Piper and Ezra. An independent woman who works for the mafia and a alpha but protective mechanic. An entertaining tale of a couple finding a love neither expected.

Piper has worked hard to build up her reputation and make her mark in a male dominated world. Keir is her boss but also her cousin and head of the mafia in New York. She has proven herself and is as dangerous as any of the men.

Ezra runs a garage which specialises in old cars and motorcycles. He first saw Piper when Keir offered him a business deal and was fascinated by the silent woman accompanying her boss. His interest in her grew as he did work for Keir and he jumped at the opportunity to attend one of Joey’s parties in the hope she’d be there. That night Piper had been drinking and agrees to go back to his place.

What was meant to be a meaningless one night stand ends up affecting her far more than she wanted. She can’t stop thinking about him and has never felt like this before so it’s confusing for her. He now wants more with her but she is happy with their benefits agreement because she refuses to let her vulnerability show and admit she wants him.

Their banter is amusing, his dominance in the bedroom is hot and it’s amusing how she melts with his dirty mouth. Their relationship has lots of ups and downs as she battles her feelings for him. He is more than willing to wait for her to realise what they have is more than just sex.

I really liked Ezra and loved his relationship with his brother and all he did for him. It was great how he doesn’t want to change Piper because he loves her feisty spirit, accepts her job and how deadly she is. He dealt with the threats from Keir and Joey so well and even admitted she was more likely to hurt him !!

It was great seeing everyone from the previous books and how well they are doing. Sailor was so understanding and encouraged their relationship. Keir likes Ezra and Joey teases her over him. They can all see what a connection the pair have although Piper constantly denies it. Lucas was hilarious again and relentlessly winds her up.

This was a steamy and amusing read but I felt it ending abruptly just as they were on the same page and starting dating. Hopefully we will see more of them in another book.

[Mell_reads12 · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶.5
"I give men power over my work. But not my life. Though I don’t give them anything to warrant concern, and I’ve never let a man who I’ve shared a bed with dominate me in any way. I have always left before they even had a chance to get too intimate with me. But I like how Ezra throws me around and directs me. I think he is the only person in this world to whom I would give that power. But I’m coming to like his softer side, too."

I honestly had so much fun reading this. It felt like the book was just continuously calling me everytime i put it down; and that was once, until I decided i'm not putting it down anymore. It was somehow short, sweet but spicy. Also, this was my first TL Smith book and honestly it's a first to many because if the rest of her books are as good as this, count me in!

From the first chapter, i was immersed and pulled in. It was one of those books where i was certain i would love and enjoy it. Plus with how short it was, it felt a big breath of fresh air to take in because of how quick the pace was.

Absolutely loved Piper and Ezra. And the touch him or touch her and die vibes oozing from them, yes please. And it did in fact almost happen, so just know i was a happy girl reading that. With them two, it was like there was a magnet between them because they always draw towards each other.

Absolutely loved Piper's character development. From being a no commitment girlie to her missing him and going to look for him and even cutting her trip short because she misses him and can't sleep without Ezra. Honestly, who's that?
Because I definitely didn't have it in cards to see Piper obsessed.
I liked how strong, brave and independent she was. She works in a male dominated field, and made a name for herself, and is seen as tough and vicious and obviously i respect her for that. She's honestly badass and she kicks ass too.

Ezra is the perfect match for Piper. He's the complete opposite of her but deadly too. He calms her fire. He doesn't push her, he lets her do whatever she wants, because once you push Piper, that's it. He brought out her soft and calm side, and i loved how he appreciated her for who she was. I also loved how protective and loving he was towards his brother. It just made him better.

Honestly enjoyed this book, but definitely going to read the rest of the series.

Thank you so much to the author for providing me this ARC in exchange for an honest review!

[Little monster · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tarnished Hands is part of an interconnected series called Chained Hands Series but can be read as a standalone..... I will hopefully go back and read the others but I really enjoyed this one and I felt I didn't miss anything about past characters either.

Piper and Ezra wow good lord!!! these two were something else. Piper is fire 🔥 she's feisty and doesn't care what she says or does and I freaking loved this woman she was something else lol. Ezra was hot too and stood out for me with his Dominance in the bedroom!! Ezra runs his own business dealing with old vintage cars and motorcycles.....he also on the side helps the mafia this is where Piper ends up in his path. One night Piper gives into the attraction she feels for Ezra they end up having a hot one night stand that was it and nothing more but the pull they feel for each other won't stop. They come to an agreement that all it will be is sex..hmmm now we know what's gonna happen don't we lol it's never just sex as you can guess these two end up catching feelings and such.

All Piper has ever known is strong men in her life and she's had to mark her place as part of the mafia she grew up in so when she feels the attraction to Ezra she doesn't want a man to change her so to speak ....can Ezra change her perception of men? There was a lot of push and pull between these two and sometimes I wanted to shout at them lol just sit down and ruddy talk!!! 😭 I honestly loved this and it was a nice short read which I devoured in a day! I can't wait to read more!!

[SinfulReadsByV · Rating 5 out of 5]

Piper was fierce, in charge, and had to prove herself among all the testosterone in the mafia. She was as feisty as they come, and I was here for it. Piper is willing to do anything for those she loves, and she's very much the love-them-and-leave-them type.
Ezra is a mechanic and shop owner who dabbles in the mafia life. And let’s be real, I love seeing a man who works with his hands. And he does enjoy working his hands on Piper!
Their spicy encounter was supposed to be a one-and-done, but these two were explosive every time they came together. Ezra is bossy in all the right ways, and the push and pull between them only added to the fire. Their connection and humor were so fun to see develop. Plus, the drama had me fully rooting for them.
They both have walls up, and neither is sure whether they want to let them down. The side characters (from previous books) were a nice touch, but Lucas especially had me cracking up every time he was in the same room as Piper or involved with anything related to her. Those two love to poke at each other. My money’s on Piper winning, of course!
For a novella, it flowed well and packed a punch with just the right amount of spice to balance it all out.

I enjoyed everything about this story.

[S Celeste · Rating 4 out of 5]

Tarnished Hands is a novella in the Chained Hands Series.

Full disclosure: I haven’t read any of the other books in this series, but now I’m really eager to dive into them. You don’t need to read any other books to enjoy this read, and boy, did I enjoy this story!

This novella follows Piper, a formidable woman in a criminal underworld dominated by men. She commands respect and attention, and she’s self-sufficient. Ezra, on the other hand, isn’t part of the underworld but does business with Piper’s family. From the very beginning, there’s an undeniable attraction between them, but Piper resists anything beyond a one-night stand. Ezra, however, has other plans and wants to make Piper his permanently.

Piper isn’t used to being dominated but Ezra commands her attention and desires. The dynamic between them is captivating and will keep you turning the pages. Don’t let the novella’s length fool you; it’s packed with a great story and a lot of steam. If you’re looking for a novella with a finely crafted and fierce heroine, an alpha hero, and a whole lot of spice, this is an excellent read.

[Book Life · Rating 4 out of 5]

Black Cat FMC! Sign me up!

Just imagine reading a typical grumpy x sunshine story, but the roles are reversed! It was a treat!

Piper being grumpy and trying to protect herself emotionally, meanwhile Ezra is confident that they are going to end up together.

What was supposed to be a one-night stand just makes them crave each other more. Piper, though, is very reluctant to let anyone get close to her except for the ones already in her life. But Ezra knows that what they have between them is something much stronger than just being physical. He is like the perfect mixture of soft and masculine.

I loved their chemistry and loved how Piper slowly grows to trust him even though she doesn’t know how to handle or communicate her feelings. Loved how Ezra communicates his feelings through actions even though Piper keeps pushing him away.

Though what I felt was missing was a few plots that were not mentioned and were entirely skipped. It felt a bit rushed because of that. But being a novella, it is understandable.

If you are looking for somewhat of a quick read, then this should be your top choice!

[Hanan · Rating 3 out of 5]

Piper lives in a man’s world. She’s always been involved one way or another in the dangerous world of her family. She’s never been taken seriously. Because women should be seen and not heard in that business. Needing to be taken seriously Piper makes a name for herself. A deadly name.
Ezra has always loved working on cars. He’s exceptional at his job. He also does work for Keir.
Which involves being on the wrong side of the law at times.
I liked both Piper and Ezra. Piper is a strong and capable woman. She’s tough and no nonsense.
Ezra is low key and quiet. Mellow and doesn’t cause waves. But don’t let his quiet demeanor fool you.
He’s no pushover and will do what needs to be done.
I liked how they both affected each other. Ezra brought out Piper’s softer side.
She brought out his protective side. And both showed their green eyed monster.
I really appreciated how Ezra accepted Piper for who she is. And what she does.
There wasn’t too much drama in their relationship.
Just Piper needing to be vulnerable and taking a chance on a man. Letting her guard down and Ezra in.

[Renee · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a copy of this book from the publisher/author to review.

This book is a short story. However, it sure don't feel like one. I devoured this thing and loved every single second of it. This is the story of Piper and Ezra. Piper if you haven't read these books is a bad butt woman. She can handle her own and then some. And sometimes better than any man. She is ruthless and in charge. She fought so hard with her family to get to where she is and Keir know that she is as amazing as she is. Ezra also does some jobs for Keir. He is an amazing mechanic and when they call on him he helps them out. He and Piper shared one night but really neither has forgotten it and now Ezra wants more. Will he get what he wants and tame the wild heart that Piper has? I can't tell you any of that but I can tell you that you are going to have the best time reading this book. I loved these two individually and as a possible match. They fit to a tee.

[Amy · Rating 2 out of 5]

The best part of this book, before I added it to my DNF list, was at the end of Chapter 15 when the MMC, Ezra, says, "Fuck off, Piper."

I wanted to like this book, I really did, but in my opinion, it's not good.

First off, while I do enjoy this writer, she could've used more unique names because most of the names of these characters are featured in other "dark Mafia romance" books not written by her.

I'm intrigued by Ezra, and for that, maybe at a later date, I will pick this book up again, but the FMC, Piper, is bloody awful.

She's meant to be this big bad Mafia chic, but she's callous - she comes off as an insecure idiot in all of the pages that I've read. There is nothing about her to like.

From what I've read of this book, it's boring - it would be better if it would just be the story of Ezra because as I see it, there's nothing interesting about Piper - she's just a bitch on a power trip that likes to play games.

[Kristie-Anne Bridges · Rating 3 out of 5]

Rated: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶🌶🌶🌶

I'm going to start out saying there was plenty of spiciness in this book 🔥🔥🔥

It was so great to see Piper get her happy ending even though she fought it all the way. The bickering between her & Lucas is some of my favourite parts throughout the whole series & they didn't slow down in this book!!!

I loved Ezra & his dominating personality (in particular his dirty talk). He knew when to push & back away giving Piper the ability to come to terms with her feelings for him.

I enjoyed seeing all the main characters from the previous books & getting a few little updates on their lives, as well as meeting some new ones...

Some of the themes/tropes in this book are:

🔧 He Falls First
🔧 One Night
🔧 Mafia
🔧 Dark Romance

For the best reading experience I would suggest reading it in order however this can be read as a standalone.

I was fortunate to receive an advanced copy of this book and this is my honest opinion.

[Gemma Kitchen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have not read any of the other books in this series but it is not necessary and this is my first book by TL Smith. I fell in her love with her books as a book cover draws me and in some of her special editions that I have purchased so I knew I had to get down and read a book and this is the first one and wont be the last.

This story is a quick and easy read and is the story if Piper and Ezra. These two have a connection and that is evident from the start but Piper isnt one for relationships but can she really stay away. Ezra is a man who knows what he wants and is willing to wait to get what he wants.

Ezra specialises in old cars and motorcycles and helps out the mob, whereas Piper has grown up around the mob and works for one of the most powerful men. She has earned her place in their world.

Piper may say one thing but can she really stay away from the man that is capturing her heart.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

“You are the most stunningly dangerous thing I have ever encountered.”

I was beyond thrilled to finally get Piper’s story, and Tarnished Hands did not disappoint. This book was absolutely addictive—I couldn't put it down for a second. Piper and Ezra? Pure fire.

After their one-night stand, Piper never planned to fall... but Ezra? He made it impossible to walk away. He knew once would never be enough and was determined to change her mind about relationships. Their chemistry was combustible, with a delicious push-pull dynamic that had me hooked. With sharp banter, sizzling tension, and an emotional punch, Piper finally meets her match in Ezra.

I loved stepping back into this world—Tarnished Hands delivered the perfect blend of heat, heart, and morally gray characters you can’t help but root for.

[Jenn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Having not read the other books in the series first, it didn’t matter. I fell in love with Piper and Ezra. It’s always the bada$$ women who get what they want and make the man plummet into the abyss for them. I know need to go catch up on the entire story of this family because just this nibble has me wanting the entire cake.
Piper’s family is in the underworld and Ezra is just a contract with them. Knowing who her family is and what she does for them does not deter him. Even as Piper continually tries to push him away and make it “casual”, her feelings begin to turn. Having worked her way up and fought for her position in the family, she was determined not to let a man in her way. But who could say no to a tall, rugged, handsome, knows how to use his hands, domineering man. Time would tell if Piper would give in and finally give herself some happiness in life.

[Katie Murphy · Rating 5 out of 5]

A surprising new novella from T.L which follows Piper and Ezra and let me say I absolutely devoured🤭

Piper is a woman who is not to be messed with that’s for sure. She is a part of a male dominated world, in which she works for Keir, but she fights for her corner and makes it known that she will come out on top.

Our MMC Ezra is an adjacent to this world in which he is not directly linked as he works as a mechanic but he would do the odd favour for the guys when they come calling. Oh and may I just add he definitely makes it quite clear that Piper is the woman he’s got eyes for🤭

Initially Piper is determined to maintain her distance but she can’t deny that Ezra is unlike any man she has met. Their chemistry is undeniable and their banter is top tier.

I absolutely loved this steamy novella! Thank you so much to the author who provided this e-arc for my honest thoughts 💭

[Shy Gawerecki · Rating 5 out of 5]

This may have been a novella, but it hit all the same notes of a full length story for me and I enjoyed every moment of it. I loved Piper and Ezra so much. She had this incredible drive and independence. She was unapologetic about going after what felt right for her, even when it wasn’t the traditional path. And while she may have fought it for a bit, she ultimately realized Ezra wanted her just the way she was but could also offer her something she didn’t even know she wanted until he came along. Ezra on the other hand knew what he wanted from the beginning and was patient while also refusing to allow himself to be walked over. He didn’t care for many people, but those he did care for he did it fiercely. And he sure could hold his own in Piper’s world and with her family. Overall, this was an incredible reading experience, and I can’t wait to see what this author gives us next.

[Juli · Rating 4 out of 5]

I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book (given by author)...

This is a short novella focuses on Piper and Ezra.

I was hoping Piper would get her own story from the moment she was introduced in Chained Hands. She is essentially the only female soldier in Keir’s syndicate which is unheard of. I adore how she can keep up with all the men’s antics and throw in some of her own.

Piper has a bit of an issue, Ezra, a one night stand, refuses to remain in the past and keeps finding ways to be in her life. Piper tried to stay away from Ezra, but he had other plans and honestly I loved his determination. Ezra really loved Piper as she was and just wanted to be with her; their connection was intense.

I didn’t want this book to end, I enjoyed seeing all my favorites people again.

More review to come.

[Jean Dewsbury · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed reading this novella about Piper and Ezra.
It's always good to see behind the scenes of some of the other characters and hopefully read more about them in future storylines.

Piper is a fierce independent dark and dangerous woman. No commitments just one night stands. Never gets close to many outside of her circle. She takes no shit from anyone especially in the man dominant environment she works in.

Ezra finds himself totally captivated by Piper, her strong personality fierce loyalty to family and her determination to show her strength. Working alongside her family in the underworld her cousins are very protective over her.
Theirs was a perfect joining with i hope many many more adventures ahead.