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Mississippi Smoke #6
All Jacked Up
Ransom
Within the family, we had no secrets. Our lives were intertwined, and the darkness that came with our way of life was something we all shared. Accepted. Had been born into. But for ten years, I’ve had one thing that was mine. Something I kept to myself. A source of light when things got heavy. The nerdy, overlooked tutor from high school who had been a breath of fresh air while helping me pass British Literature was someone I hadn’t let go of. Sure, it had been ten years since we’d seen each other, but that wasn’t important. Our texting was what I needed. Her wittiness had the ability to make me laugh and lighten my mood with her comebacks. She had never tried to impress me or flirt. It was the strongest relationship I’d ever had with a female, but it was also platonic, which was why it lasted. Noa Raines was my calm in the storms of life, and I wouldn’t do anything to jeopardize that.
Noa
When faced with a situation you weren’t expecting and have no idea how to navigate, one normally asks for advice from someone they trust. Typically, I’d text out my problem to my texting pen pal and ask him what to do. Except this time, my issue was with him. In the flesh, in front of me, glaring at me like he’d rather lick the bottom of his shoe than speak to me. I had no logical reason why he should dislike me on sight. He didn’t recognize me, that I knew. The name he’d been given was my pen name. One I had actually chosen because of him. Ironic that he’d made a snarky comment about it.
How was the man sitting across from me the same one I’d talked to almost daily for ten years? This man was cruel, rude, and although he was still mouthwatering, I didn’t like him. And he didn’t deserve to know who I was now. I’d walk out of here keeping that to myself. The next time he texted, he’d go unanswered. If he wanted to treat others so harshly, then I’d return the favor.
Within the family, we had no secrets. Our lives were intertwined, and the darkness that came with our way of life was something we all shared. Accepted. Had been born into. But for ten years, I’ve had one thing that was mine. Something I kept to myself. A source of light when things got heavy. The nerdy, overlooked tutor from high school who had been a breath of fresh air while helping me pass British Literature was someone I hadn’t let go of. Sure, it had been ten years since we’d seen each other, but that wasn’t important. Our texting was what I needed. Her wittiness had the ability to make me laugh and lighten my mood with her comebacks. She had never tried to impress me or flirt. It was the strongest relationship I’d ever had with a female, but it was also platonic, which was why it lasted. Noa Raines was my calm in the storms of life, and I wouldn’t do anything to jeopardize that.
Noa
When faced with a situation you weren’t expecting and have no idea how to navigate, one normally asks for advice from someone they trust. Typically, I’d text out my problem to my texting pen pal and ask him what to do. Except this time, my issue was with him. In the flesh, in front of me, glaring at me like he’d rather lick the bottom of his shoe than speak to me. I had no logical reason why he should dislike me on sight. He didn’t recognize me, that I knew. The name he’d been given was my pen name. One I had actually chosen because of him. Ironic that he’d made a snarky comment about it.
How was the man sitting across from me the same one I’d talked to almost daily for ten years? This man was cruel, rude, and although he was still mouthwatering, I didn’t like him. And he didn’t deserve to know who I was now. I’d walk out of here keeping that to myself. The next time he texted, he’d go unanswered. If he wanted to treat others so harshly, then I’d return the favor.
282 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 16, 2025
85 people are currently reading
218 people want to read
About the author
Abbi Glines
118 books86.4k followersAbbi Glines is a #1 New York Times, USA Today, and Wall Street Journal bestselling author of the Rosemary Beach, Smoke, Sea Breeze, Vincent Boys, Field Party and Existence series. She never cooks unless baking during the Christmas holiday counts. She believes in ghosts and has a habit of asking people if their house is haunted before she goes in it. She drinks afternoon tea because she wants to be British but she now lives in New England and that's as close as it is going to get. When asked how many books she has written she has to stop and count on her fingers. When she’s not locked away writing, she is reading, watching Netflix and all the introverted stuff.
You can connect with Abbi online in several different ways. She uses social media to procrastinate.
You can connect with Abbi online in several different ways. She uses social media to procrastinate.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 117 reviews
June 21, 2025
Apparently, this installment of Mississippi Smoke is a duet.
And to be honest, I think it should have been one book. Because nothing actually happens here. Any conflict in this book is purely in the form of the turmoil of being friends rather than lovers.
Neither character is very interesting at this point. In fact, Ransom isn't even likeable and the fmc, for being an author who wrote her mmc with a redemption, is pretty much a cardboard cutout made for flinging crap at it and reacting exactly as you'd expect a piece of cardboard would.
I'm hoping the second half is less rushed and makes up for this one.
3 benefit-of-the-doubt-stars for now, liable to change depending on the second half
And to be honest, I think it should have been one book. Because nothing actually happens here. Any conflict in this book is purely in the form of the turmoil of being friends rather than lovers.
Neither character is very interesting at this point. In fact, Ransom isn't even likeable and the fmc, for being an author who wrote her mmc with a redemption, is pretty much a cardboard cutout made for flinging crap at it and reacting exactly as you'd expect a piece of cardboard would.
I'm hoping the second half is less rushed and makes up for this one.
3 benefit-of-the-doubt-stars for now, liable to change depending on the second half
June 15, 2025
Abbi might be the only author that can write such perfection in such a short time. The books come quick and they're always top tier! I read this super quickly and enjoyed every second. I adored the pen pal trope I guess you could say even though they've met. Obviously Ransom was a walking red flag but some of us are color blind! ready for book 2!
June 17, 2025
La última parte 🔥🔥🔥🔥
June 19, 2025
another 🤬 cliffhanger 👎
June 18, 2025
Loved it/Slightly Obsessed
Rating: Loved it/Slightly Obsessed
Wow! This was my first read in the Mississippi Smoke series, but I had already fallen in love with the Georgia Smoke series, so I jumped at the chance to ARC read this one. Abbi Glines has such a talent for weaving stories around morally gray MMCs who, honestly, would burn the world down for the women they love. Ransom is no exception when it comes to Noa.
I really enjoyed how the story opened with their friendship in high school, then quickly transitioned to their young adult years, and finally jumped to the present. It felt like a highlight reel of their relationship, giving us a sweet and insightful glimpse into their dynamic which is absolutely adorable and full of the best banter.
The only reason I didn’t give this five stars is because I couldn’t quite buy that Ransom wouldn’t recognize Noa after ten years. I understand she had one hell of a glow-up, but still...I feel like he would’ve figured it out a lot sooner. It took him an embarrassingly long time, especially with the answer is literally staring him in the face...but, you know, men. 😅
Watching Ransom battle his feelings was both hilarious and impressive. The mental gymnastics he put himself through to justify everything? Top-tier. I thought I was good at rationalizing things, but Ransom could teach a masterclass.
The angst and tension between Noa and Ransom was delicious. The steam was scorching. The spice made a Carolina Reaper look mild. And of course, in true Abbi Glines fashion, it ends on the most tantalizing cliffhanger. Thankfully, the next part of their story drops in July. So the wait for All Tied Up won’t be too long, and I seriously appreciate that.
Thank you, @wordsmithpublicity and @abbiglines for the ARC. I cannot wait for All Tied Up!
Rating: Loved it/Slightly Obsessed
Wow! This was my first read in the Mississippi Smoke series, but I had already fallen in love with the Georgia Smoke series, so I jumped at the chance to ARC read this one. Abbi Glines has such a talent for weaving stories around morally gray MMCs who, honestly, would burn the world down for the women they love. Ransom is no exception when it comes to Noa.
I really enjoyed how the story opened with their friendship in high school, then quickly transitioned to their young adult years, and finally jumped to the present. It felt like a highlight reel of their relationship, giving us a sweet and insightful glimpse into their dynamic which is absolutely adorable and full of the best banter.
The only reason I didn’t give this five stars is because I couldn’t quite buy that Ransom wouldn’t recognize Noa after ten years. I understand she had one hell of a glow-up, but still...I feel like he would’ve figured it out a lot sooner. It took him an embarrassingly long time, especially with the answer is literally staring him in the face...but, you know, men. 😅
Watching Ransom battle his feelings was both hilarious and impressive. The mental gymnastics he put himself through to justify everything? Top-tier. I thought I was good at rationalizing things, but Ransom could teach a masterclass.
The angst and tension between Noa and Ransom was delicious. The steam was scorching. The spice made a Carolina Reaper look mild. And of course, in true Abbi Glines fashion, it ends on the most tantalizing cliffhanger. Thankfully, the next part of their story drops in July. So the wait for All Tied Up won’t be too long, and I seriously appreciate that.
Thank you, @wordsmithpublicity and @abbiglines for the ARC. I cannot wait for All Tied Up!
November 23, 2025
I love Glines' Southern Mafia world and the Mississippi Mafia branch of the family is tied with the Georgia branch, as my second fave branch.
Really all of the stories have some hits and misses with me, and some couple's stories in the series get two books. The 2-book-thing is almost always unnecessary, I think, but I am only partial to it when I love the couple. With Ransom and Noa, I did not.
So I'll just highlight the two characteristics I liked, almost adored (until the 2-part/too long plot) about them.
1. They meet in HS, where she is his tutor. She is the slightly not-developed-yet bookish girl and he is the dark and handsome, older, rich boy.
2. They never get together while younger, but for years (10 yrs...rollz eyes), they keep up a correspondence via text. Noa being the staid good girl Ransom semi-confides in and checks in on, and Ransom being the man who Noa uses as her standard of her fantasies as she goes on with life and becomes a famous writer.
Noa doesn't know Ransom is a part of the Sothern Mafia, and Ransom doesn't know Noa has turned into a famously hot romance author, and a woman who is smokin' hot as well. It's cute, almost like a cross between The Ugly Duckling and the plot in the movie, The Saint:
Where she is a smart, bookish or genius heroine and he is a master of disguise or darkness. She becomes beautiful and he just keeps gravitating toward her until he finally just takes her.
LOL, ahahahahah.... divine.
So one would think that I loved this couple. Though they were cute, the sequence of events with them, the ten yrs of correspondence, the non recognition Ransom has after Noa's "transformation," and the drawn out, wierd plot were all, ...not satisfying for me. I did not feel as if their development was cared for enough, even across two books, I'm afraid, or else it would have been four stars.
Happy Reading
Really all of the stories have some hits and misses with me, and some couple's stories in the series get two books. The 2-book-thing is almost always unnecessary, I think, but I am only partial to it when I love the couple. With Ransom and Noa, I did not.
So I'll just highlight the two characteristics I liked, almost adored (until the 2-part/too long plot) about them.
1. They meet in HS, where she is his tutor. She is the slightly not-developed-yet bookish girl and he is the dark and handsome, older, rich boy.
2. They never get together while younger, but for years (10 yrs...rollz eyes), they keep up a correspondence via text. Noa being the staid good girl Ransom semi-confides in and checks in on, and Ransom being the man who Noa uses as her standard of her fantasies as she goes on with life and becomes a famous writer.
Noa doesn't know Ransom is a part of the Sothern Mafia, and Ransom doesn't know Noa has turned into a famously hot romance author, and a woman who is smokin' hot as well. It's cute, almost like a cross between The Ugly Duckling and the plot in the movie, The Saint:
Where she is a smart, bookish or genius heroine and he is a master of disguise or darkness. She becomes beautiful and he just keeps gravitating toward her until he finally just takes her.
LOL, ahahahahah.... divine.
So one would think that I loved this couple. Though they were cute, the sequence of events with them, the ten yrs of correspondence, the non recognition Ransom has after Noa's "transformation," and the drawn out, wierd plot were all, ...not satisfying for me. I did not feel as if their development was cared for enough, even across two books, I'm afraid, or else it would have been four stars.
Happy Reading
June 19, 2025
Fricking loved these two!
I'm wearing the dopiest grin right now - seriously, these two just stole my heart
"Our friendship was odd but made sense, all at the same time."
They were "acquaintances" in high school. Complete opposites in every way. He was popular, she was invisible.
Somehow though,h they formed a friendship that lasted through the years
Sure, it was via text, but for Ransom, it had become his lifeline for sanity.
"Sweet Jesus, someone save me from myself"
Ransom, you poor soul...
The lies we tell ourselves to justify our behavior
"Moving closer, I leaned down to see it better."
This is one of my favorite scenes - I snorted -
Yeah, I will admit it - Just wait
"Stop looking like a ducking snack."
Noa was playing with fire when it came to Ransom, but she was used to being burned.
And this time it was worth every lick of flame
"Then I'd missed out on ten years of friendship."
Made me think of Henry Moody's song Drunk Text
I need book two
Again, Glines knocks it out of the park
I'm wearing the dopiest grin right now - seriously, these two just stole my heart
"Our friendship was odd but made sense, all at the same time."
They were "acquaintances" in high school. Complete opposites in every way. He was popular, she was invisible.
Somehow though,h they formed a friendship that lasted through the years
Sure, it was via text, but for Ransom, it had become his lifeline for sanity.
"Sweet Jesus, someone save me from myself"
Ransom, you poor soul...
The lies we tell ourselves to justify our behavior
"Moving closer, I leaned down to see it better."
This is one of my favorite scenes - I snorted -
Yeah, I will admit it - Just wait
"Stop looking like a ducking snack."
Noa was playing with fire when it came to Ransom, but she was used to being burned.
And this time it was worth every lick of flame
"Then I'd missed out on ten years of friendship."
Made me think of Henry Moody's song Drunk Text
I need book two
Again, Glines knocks it out of the park
June 26, 2025
All Jacked Up by Abbi Glines was a fantastic read! I love diving into this Southern Mafia series and reading about my favorite guys. Yes, every single one of them is my favorite. It can get a little complicated sometimes, but how can I not love them all?! Yes, I favor some over the others, but they all know how to make me giggle like a schoolgirl... and Ransom did it excellently. Great job, Abbi! I cannot wait to get my hands on more.
Ransom and Noa were by far one of my favorite couples! I loved their history so much, and related to Noa a lot as well. Noa was so refreshing. She just felt different compared to our other girls, and even though our other ladies are uniquely themselves, Noa was just different. Maybe it's because I relate to her the most... Well, I don't have a hot Southern Mafia boyfriend, but that's besides the point. Ransom was also just my kind of guy. Gosh, maybe their story just reminds me of a different time in my life with my own guy friend that was solely a texting relationship. I'm not sure, but I love All Jacked Up so much! Congratulations on your release, Abbi! 😉
Ransom and Noa were by far one of my favorite couples! I loved their history so much, and related to Noa a lot as well. Noa was so refreshing. She just felt different compared to our other girls, and even though our other ladies are uniquely themselves, Noa was just different. Maybe it's because I relate to her the most... Well, I don't have a hot Southern Mafia boyfriend, but that's besides the point. Ransom was also just my kind of guy. Gosh, maybe their story just reminds me of a different time in my life with my own guy friend that was solely a texting relationship. I'm not sure, but I love All Jacked Up so much! Congratulations on your release, Abbi! 😉
June 19, 2025
Seriously want to rate it lower because I absolutely hate when an author abruptly ends a book to make it into a duet. Just feels like a money grab to me 😡
However, love this story, their banter and how it’s going. Hope the next book doesn’t do something to ruin it with some kind of drama.
However, love this story, their banter and how it’s going. Hope the next book doesn’t do something to ruin it with some kind of drama.
June 19, 2025
Trigger Warning this book might not be for all readers. This is Part One of a duet. It was nice to see Ransom’s character return back to the person we were introduced to in the beginning of this series. Part Two is expected to be released on July 27, 2025.
June 18, 2025
liked the book until the end, this is part one. will need to get the next book for the ending? of this story...
July 3, 2025
This is part 1 of a duet. This was not mentioned anywhere I saw. From reading book 1, I can not imagine why another book is needed for the full story. It feels like an icky way to make more money.
Also, I feel the editing in this book isn't up to Abbi's usual standards.
Also, I feel the editing in this book isn't up to Abbi's usual standards.
July 15, 2025
A good read but.....
There is a lot about this book I like, but I had to knock off stars for a few reasons. The biggest reason is the fat shaming. Now, most people will miss this, and I think even the writer did not know she was doing it. I do believe that these may be unrecognizable beliefs she has or based on unhealthy society norms. As a person is is plus-size and larger than a size 8, which apparently 8 not being considered thin, it is there. Now the MMC is not involved in the fat shaming, I even believe that I'd the MFC was still what her original size was he still would have a problem keeping his hands off her. However, the MFC was doing the fat shaming on herself. This was disappointing. More so because the MFC and the story enforces the idea that the MMC notices her because of the white loss. The excuses on why she lost weight, the occasional counting calories, and having to explain to herself why she is justified to drink win in her bath; it is all a form of fat shaming especially when the MFC said she was okay at a size 8 and she didn't want to put energy into getting smaller. The whole attitude the MFC has about her body is unhealthy, and it is really dis-empowering to see the MFC to look to the MMC and others to get her self-worth.
I would also like to make a point that there are different levels felt by someone who is thick at size 14 vs. someone who is a size 20 vs. someone who is a size 30. Acting as if a size 12 or 14 goes through the same judgment as a size 30 in our world is ignorant and unrealistic. We all have to deal with body images enforced on us as women, but there is completely a different level of acceptance. It is kind of cruel to pretend otherwise. And if you are in the plus-sized community, we have all seen some of the lower-sized women come into plus-sized spaces so they can be the size 0s of 2s of those communities. I only bring that up because that was how it felt when reading the MFC weight struggles. It read as someone who really did not get what it is like to be overweight. Maybe the writer can do better research or just do not write about a community you are not a part of or something you need to still heal from.
The weight stuff was one star taken away, the others star is about this. I did not know their story would not end in the 1st book. It really left me wanting to see what happened. The slower burn was also annoying, but there are supposed to be. I also did not like the MMC kept having coitus with other women. I get the why, but it was disconnecting as a reader when you had an emotional scene between the two, then he found a rando. It made me hate him a bit, and if I were the MFC in the back of my mind, I would have asked, can he really want me if other women are involved.
Anyway, I am going to red the next book, I have a deeply disturbing need to rind out how it ends. I can dislike a book and still need to know the end. I may give another story of the writer a chance; the writer has promise. We will see where I stand about the writer when I have experienced more of the work.
There is a lot about this book I like, but I had to knock off stars for a few reasons. The biggest reason is the fat shaming. Now, most people will miss this, and I think even the writer did not know she was doing it. I do believe that these may be unrecognizable beliefs she has or based on unhealthy society norms. As a person is is plus-size and larger than a size 8, which apparently 8 not being considered thin, it is there. Now the MMC is not involved in the fat shaming, I even believe that I'd the MFC was still what her original size was he still would have a problem keeping his hands off her. However, the MFC was doing the fat shaming on herself. This was disappointing. More so because the MFC and the story enforces the idea that the MMC notices her because of the white loss. The excuses on why she lost weight, the occasional counting calories, and having to explain to herself why she is justified to drink win in her bath; it is all a form of fat shaming especially when the MFC said she was okay at a size 8 and she didn't want to put energy into getting smaller. The whole attitude the MFC has about her body is unhealthy, and it is really dis-empowering to see the MFC to look to the MMC and others to get her self-worth.
I would also like to make a point that there are different levels felt by someone who is thick at size 14 vs. someone who is a size 20 vs. someone who is a size 30. Acting as if a size 12 or 14 goes through the same judgment as a size 30 in our world is ignorant and unrealistic. We all have to deal with body images enforced on us as women, but there is completely a different level of acceptance. It is kind of cruel to pretend otherwise. And if you are in the plus-sized community, we have all seen some of the lower-sized women come into plus-sized spaces so they can be the size 0s of 2s of those communities. I only bring that up because that was how it felt when reading the MFC weight struggles. It read as someone who really did not get what it is like to be overweight. Maybe the writer can do better research or just do not write about a community you are not a part of or something you need to still heal from.
The weight stuff was one star taken away, the others star is about this. I did not know their story would not end in the 1st book. It really left me wanting to see what happened. The slower burn was also annoying, but there are supposed to be. I also did not like the MMC kept having coitus with other women. I get the why, but it was disconnecting as a reader when you had an emotional scene between the two, then he found a rando. It made me hate him a bit, and if I were the MFC in the back of my mind, I would have asked, can he really want me if other women are involved.
Anyway, I am going to red the next book, I have a deeply disturbing need to rind out how it ends. I can dislike a book and still need to know the end. I may give another story of the writer a chance; the writer has promise. We will see where I stand about the writer when I have experienced more of the work.
June 19, 2025
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶🌶.5
Heat/Angst: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
This is the 6th book is the Mississippi Smoke Series, which is a southern mafia, off-limits, texting penpals romance. It doesn't end with a HEA, more like a HFN because there will be a 2nd book to this couple coming out next.
Tropes:
- Southern Mafia Romance
- Friends to Lovers
- Texting PenPals for 10 years
- Off-Limits/Forbidden
- Secret Identity
- Found Family
- Pierced 🍆
- Slow Burn
- Long Distance Friendship (NY/MS)
- Obsessed/Jealous MMC
- Touch Her/Hurt Her & Disappear
- Angsty
Ok, so I'm going to be honest with my opinion on this book. I did not like the ending at all. It didn't end in a cliffhanger, but more like a happy for now situation.
I didn't like how little there was of spice scenes. Not only was their first time doing the deed, the end of the book. There was only 1 other scene about 75% in, and it was "just the tip" when they woke up. It's a lot like Than and Montana's book. Who was the MMC's little brother and the book before this one.
The back and forth banter between the two was quite funny. Not just in their text messages but in person too.
Noa was Ransom's tutor in high school his senior year. The book starts in the past when she was 16 till age 26, I think. Then, chapter 1 starts after that. Ransom is a year older, I believe. He was a senior when she was a junior.
After the tutoring was done, Noa and Ransom stayed friends, but only through text messages. She was the big girl with glasses and braces that made it look like she had duck lips. She was a loner with no friends and spent all her time in the library. She came from a bad home life and had a mother who didn't care about her.
Ransom was the popular guy that all the females wanted. He came from a wealthy, powerful family and had his own group of guys that he was friends with. Even though he texted Noa, he never talked to her in school or in person after the tutoring.
Over the years, he kept talking to Noa because she was the light to his darkness. She calmed him down when he was anxious or having problems. He had an image of what she looked like over the past 10 years. Boy, was he in for a ride.
Noa was now a famous top selling romance author and engaged to her boss. Only her best friend Jellie knows what is going on in Noa's real life (minus Ransom). Noa seems to lie to everyone in her life, which was only Ransom, Jellie, and her fiancé Arden. No one knows about Ransom in her NY life, and Ransom knows nothing factual that goes on in her NY life, including her being an author and engaged.
We get to meet Opal in this book, Ransom's sister, who lives in Washington DC. He goes to visit her, and she invited him to dinner with this publisher she was working it and potentially wanted to see. This happened to be Noa's fiancé, and he was bringing this famous author that he said was a diva and b**ch.
Noa's fiancé never wanted her to tell anyone they were engaged and made her take her ring off. Honestly, he didn't want anyone to know they were actually together in general. So, surprise, surprise when they go to this restaurant and Ransom is there with his sister. Only Ransom doesn't recognize Noa, and him and his sister great her like crap.
Ransom soon realizes that him and Opal had been lied to about the author. She was nothing like the publisher told them. They start to see the publisher in a new light. Noa starts to ignore his text after that when she told him that she met with someone she hasn't seen in forever and they were nothing like she thought they would be and she was upset.
Ransom, being his normal self, wanted to protect Noa. He's been doing that pretty much behind the scenes since high school. He had his people look into Noa and send him all the info. Boy, was he surprised when her recent picture showed up on his desk with info. Noa was no longer the chunky girl with duck lips he pictured. Now she was the woman he was instantly attracted to from that restaurant.
Ransom did not enjoy and struggled with Noa being hot now. He grew obsessed with her and stalked her. He did not believe in the concept of 1 woman when he could have variety. Even though he was seeing thriving examples from his closest friends and brother. He never thought that would be his life and wanted to firmly keep Noa in the friend box.
She was his closest friend that he could talk to about dark things in his mind. She made him laugh, and he couldn't lose her. She felt the same about the not losing him part, but she had been in love with Ransom since high school. She even based her MMC in her romance books off him. Plus, her pen name she used was based on their time together.
This couple had all the makings of a relationship when it came to feelings. Ransom just didn't think he could have a relationship because he didn't think he could only have 1 female s3x partner.
By the time he finally figured out that he wanted her that way, the book was over. The next book, All Tied Up, is coming out in July. I can't wait to see how this plays out. I'm thinking maybe Arden, he fiancé is going to come back and ruin things, maybe? Maybe it will be a short story like Thatcher and Capri's 2nd book. I just know I need to see how this plays out for Ransom and Noa.
Spice: 🌶🌶.5
Heat/Angst: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
This is the 6th book is the Mississippi Smoke Series, which is a southern mafia, off-limits, texting penpals romance. It doesn't end with a HEA, more like a HFN because there will be a 2nd book to this couple coming out next.
Tropes:
- Southern Mafia Romance
- Friends to Lovers
- Texting PenPals for 10 years
- Off-Limits/Forbidden
- Secret Identity
- Found Family
- Pierced 🍆
- Slow Burn
- Long Distance Friendship (NY/MS)
- Obsessed/Jealous MMC
- Touch Her/Hurt Her & Disappear
- Angsty
Ok, so I'm going to be honest with my opinion on this book. I did not like the ending at all. It didn't end in a cliffhanger, but more like a happy for now situation.
I didn't like how little there was of spice scenes. Not only was their first time doing the deed, the end of the book. There was only 1 other scene about 75% in, and it was "just the tip" when they woke up. It's a lot like Than and Montana's book. Who was the MMC's little brother and the book before this one.
The back and forth banter between the two was quite funny. Not just in their text messages but in person too.
Noa was Ransom's tutor in high school his senior year. The book starts in the past when she was 16 till age 26, I think. Then, chapter 1 starts after that. Ransom is a year older, I believe. He was a senior when she was a junior.
After the tutoring was done, Noa and Ransom stayed friends, but only through text messages. She was the big girl with glasses and braces that made it look like she had duck lips. She was a loner with no friends and spent all her time in the library. She came from a bad home life and had a mother who didn't care about her.
Ransom was the popular guy that all the females wanted. He came from a wealthy, powerful family and had his own group of guys that he was friends with. Even though he texted Noa, he never talked to her in school or in person after the tutoring.
Over the years, he kept talking to Noa because she was the light to his darkness. She calmed him down when he was anxious or having problems. He had an image of what she looked like over the past 10 years. Boy, was he in for a ride.
Noa was now a famous top selling romance author and engaged to her boss. Only her best friend Jellie knows what is going on in Noa's real life (minus Ransom). Noa seems to lie to everyone in her life, which was only Ransom, Jellie, and her fiancé Arden. No one knows about Ransom in her NY life, and Ransom knows nothing factual that goes on in her NY life, including her being an author and engaged.
We get to meet Opal in this book, Ransom's sister, who lives in Washington DC. He goes to visit her, and she invited him to dinner with this publisher she was working it and potentially wanted to see. This happened to be Noa's fiancé, and he was bringing this famous author that he said was a diva and b**ch.
Noa's fiancé never wanted her to tell anyone they were engaged and made her take her ring off. Honestly, he didn't want anyone to know they were actually together in general. So, surprise, surprise when they go to this restaurant and Ransom is there with his sister. Only Ransom doesn't recognize Noa, and him and his sister great her like crap.
Ransom soon realizes that him and Opal had been lied to about the author. She was nothing like the publisher told them. They start to see the publisher in a new light. Noa starts to ignore his text after that when she told him that she met with someone she hasn't seen in forever and they were nothing like she thought they would be and she was upset.
Ransom, being his normal self, wanted to protect Noa. He's been doing that pretty much behind the scenes since high school. He had his people look into Noa and send him all the info. Boy, was he surprised when her recent picture showed up on his desk with info. Noa was no longer the chunky girl with duck lips he pictured. Now she was the woman he was instantly attracted to from that restaurant.
Ransom did not enjoy and struggled with Noa being hot now. He grew obsessed with her and stalked her. He did not believe in the concept of 1 woman when he could have variety. Even though he was seeing thriving examples from his closest friends and brother. He never thought that would be his life and wanted to firmly keep Noa in the friend box.
She was his closest friend that he could talk to about dark things in his mind. She made him laugh, and he couldn't lose her. She felt the same about the not losing him part, but she had been in love with Ransom since high school. She even based her MMC in her romance books off him. Plus, her pen name she used was based on their time together.
This couple had all the makings of a relationship when it came to feelings. Ransom just didn't think he could have a relationship because he didn't think he could only have 1 female s3x partner.
By the time he finally figured out that he wanted her that way, the book was over. The next book, All Tied Up, is coming out in July. I can't wait to see how this plays out. I'm thinking maybe Arden, he fiancé is going to come back and ruin things, maybe? Maybe it will be a short story like Thatcher and Capri's 2nd book. I just know I need to see how this plays out for Ransom and Noa.
June 16, 2025
Ransom Carver’s life is all jacked up. We’ve met him in the previous Mississippi Smoke Series books, but didn’t really pay that much attention, just that he’s one of those crude, rude, brash young studs who take what they want and never apologize for it. Except All Jacked Up, the sixth book in the series by author Abbi Glines, is Ransom’s story. And we are going to learn a lot about him; see a side of him we never suspected was there.
Noa Raines was the frumpy little practically invisible student librarian in high school. Bullied, mocked, ignored, taunted, made fun of for her braces and her weight – both at school and at home by her mother and her mother’s boyfriend Dick (good name, btw). She’d learned to keep her head down and be quiet and bide her time until she could escape from Madison, Mississippi. Noa was stunned speechless – literally – when handsome, popular, powerful Ransom Carver spoke to her, until she realized he didn’t really want to talk to her; he needed her to tutor him in British Literature so he would understand what Shakespeare was saying. Somehow, though, tutoring sessions turned into some kind of weird non-relationship. They somehow clicked. Not in a romantic way, because OMG no way Ransom would ever be interested in someone like her, but they talked and laughed and it was fun. Of course he completely ignored her the rest of the time, but she was fine with that because she was the only girl love-‘em-and-leave-‘em-Ransom hadn’t left behind.
After he graduated they began to text, frequently. Still definitely a non-romantic non-relationship, but they checked in with each other, made each other laugh, shared private things. Texting continued through her college years to her job at a publishing agency; ten years after they first met when she was 16-years-old they were still texting. Several times a week. It was an important part of both their lives. She didn’t expect more, but maybe her innermost heart thought about it sometimes; Ransom kept it to himself, she was his very own secret that brought light into his dark times.
Trust me, you will never guess at what happens next but it will make you laugh and have your brain scrambling to figure out what could possibly come after this. Turns out they didn’t quite share everything: she’s not an editor at the publishing house but the very successful author of some spicy, sexy romance books – with an interesting twist on who is the inspiration for her male heroes. And he’s not just a rich guy who works at his family whiskey distillery – he’s part of the Mississippi Mafia. When they meet again after all those years she is shocked, and he’s rude and dismissive. How can this Ransom be the Ransom she’s counted on to always be there for her? And how could life have done this to him? She was his rock, he needed her, Noa, not this stunningly beautiful woman who calls herself Juliette Romeo he could hardly resist. He didn’t believe in relationships or anything long-term. So what now, can they go back to texting? See, everything is all jacked up.
Author Abbi Glines has to keep writing these Mafia stories forever. They are so good; I am always on the edge of my seat waiting for the next one and then I just zip through it – and I’m waiting again. Noa and Ransom’s story had my mouth dropping open in surprise, my temperature rising because of all the heat between them, my tears flowing because of the hurt and secrets and seemingly insurmountable obstacles – and my stomach hurting from all the belly laughing I was doing at their situations and antics. They are surrounded by all his “Family” characters we’ve met before, Noa’s tiny number of friends, her jerk fiancé (why did she ever say ‘yes?’), her horrible mother and a plot that just won’t quit. Noa doesn’t want to lose him; however she can keep him she’ll be okay with it; he just needs to be in her life. Ransom is terrified of becoming a ‘psychopath’ like what’s happening to his friends and family. One day they’re carefree, no attachments, the next they will do anything for their woman and baby. Not him, nope. Ha, ha, ha, we’ll see about that.
I received an advance copy of All Jacked Up. I loved it. Noa and Ransom are adorable and funny and wonderful. I voluntarily leave this review; all opinions are my own.
Noa Raines was the frumpy little practically invisible student librarian in high school. Bullied, mocked, ignored, taunted, made fun of for her braces and her weight – both at school and at home by her mother and her mother’s boyfriend Dick (good name, btw). She’d learned to keep her head down and be quiet and bide her time until she could escape from Madison, Mississippi. Noa was stunned speechless – literally – when handsome, popular, powerful Ransom Carver spoke to her, until she realized he didn’t really want to talk to her; he needed her to tutor him in British Literature so he would understand what Shakespeare was saying. Somehow, though, tutoring sessions turned into some kind of weird non-relationship. They somehow clicked. Not in a romantic way, because OMG no way Ransom would ever be interested in someone like her, but they talked and laughed and it was fun. Of course he completely ignored her the rest of the time, but she was fine with that because she was the only girl love-‘em-and-leave-‘em-Ransom hadn’t left behind.
After he graduated they began to text, frequently. Still definitely a non-romantic non-relationship, but they checked in with each other, made each other laugh, shared private things. Texting continued through her college years to her job at a publishing agency; ten years after they first met when she was 16-years-old they were still texting. Several times a week. It was an important part of both their lives. She didn’t expect more, but maybe her innermost heart thought about it sometimes; Ransom kept it to himself, she was his very own secret that brought light into his dark times.
Trust me, you will never guess at what happens next but it will make you laugh and have your brain scrambling to figure out what could possibly come after this. Turns out they didn’t quite share everything: she’s not an editor at the publishing house but the very successful author of some spicy, sexy romance books – with an interesting twist on who is the inspiration for her male heroes. And he’s not just a rich guy who works at his family whiskey distillery – he’s part of the Mississippi Mafia. When they meet again after all those years she is shocked, and he’s rude and dismissive. How can this Ransom be the Ransom she’s counted on to always be there for her? And how could life have done this to him? She was his rock, he needed her, Noa, not this stunningly beautiful woman who calls herself Juliette Romeo he could hardly resist. He didn’t believe in relationships or anything long-term. So what now, can they go back to texting? See, everything is all jacked up.
Author Abbi Glines has to keep writing these Mafia stories forever. They are so good; I am always on the edge of my seat waiting for the next one and then I just zip through it – and I’m waiting again. Noa and Ransom’s story had my mouth dropping open in surprise, my temperature rising because of all the heat between them, my tears flowing because of the hurt and secrets and seemingly insurmountable obstacles – and my stomach hurting from all the belly laughing I was doing at their situations and antics. They are surrounded by all his “Family” characters we’ve met before, Noa’s tiny number of friends, her jerk fiancé (why did she ever say ‘yes?’), her horrible mother and a plot that just won’t quit. Noa doesn’t want to lose him; however she can keep him she’ll be okay with it; he just needs to be in her life. Ransom is terrified of becoming a ‘psychopath’ like what’s happening to his friends and family. One day they’re carefree, no attachments, the next they will do anything for their woman and baby. Not him, nope. Ha, ha, ha, we’ll see about that.
I received an advance copy of All Jacked Up. I loved it. Noa and Ransom are adorable and funny and wonderful. I voluntarily leave this review; all opinions are my own.
September 24, 2025
Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
I don’t know what more needs to be said. If you’re a fan of Abbi Glines, or contemporary romance in general, If All Jacked Up doesn’t work for you, I don’t know what will. Expect Ransom Carver’s journey from a low-to-no-point-of-charisma-brooding-man-whore to hands-down swoon-worthy mafia badass with a side of Southern mafia family chaos.
It’s our leather jacketed, emotionally unavailable, criminally rude and entirely unpredictable (the “what do you mean I can’t have that, I’ll take what I want” type) Ransom in a Southern mafia setting we’ve seen throughout the Mississippi Smoke series in this book—and I will admit, I spent a lot of the book marvelling at what a genuine softie this man became from the man-child bully he started out as.
Noa Raines is our secretly adorkable, bullied high school wallflower, late-night-texting-turned-book-author-and-covert-librarian cutie who had been his light for over ten years. She was his one and only lifeline. The only person who could ever reach him. Their banter and dynamic is so strong, and really elevates the book. It’s both so funny, so heartwarming, so sweet and so steamy all at the same time. So if you like your romance to have a slow build, you’re in luck. The book is divided into texting/flirty texting/relationship-long past—which just intensifies the connection and the heat—and throws in the delightful “oh my god he doesn’t even recognize me as the same nerdy-girl-his-family-helped-bookworm he met at the library ten years ago as a whole new kind of sexy vixen” moment for extra measure.
The reunion in person is…awkward. She’s changed—she’s writing erotic romance (under a pen name of course) and he’s not the same boy who was always too busy scowling to notice her—now she’s got to deal with the new and improved, asshole-smooth, secretive-as-hell mafia man about town who also just happens to have gang ties (remember, mafia don’t step on each others toes but don’t be surprised if there are a few sideways looks that get tossed around) and can be more emotionally distant, rougher around the edges and frankly a little intimidating. She’s a whole new person and they’re not on the same page, not by a long shot and you can tell from their first awkward real-life get together that things are going to be explosive and turbulent, but oh so very addicting. They’re both dealing with their own personal brand of dark and he has a controlling mafia mother and little sister to keep in line while also trying to learn how to feel again and she has her jerk of a fiancé to break up with, her drama queen mama to ignore and her own well-kept family secrets. The suspense and the sexual tension? 🔥 The build-up, the awwwww moments, the UGH you two! moments and then the OMG when the lines blur across those two worlds? Insane.
Weaved between the tropes you will also find your perfect ratio of spicy, heart, suspense and family/friend drama. I was keto-sweating through the spicy moments, clutching my heart during the emotional moments, LOLing through all the small-town shenanigans and just HOLY CRAP what the WHAT?! in moments that even my most cynical inner critic couldn’t have predicted.
Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
I don’t know what more needs to be said. If you’re a fan of Abbi Glines, or contemporary romance in general, If All Jacked Up doesn’t work for you, I don’t know what will. Expect Ransom Carver’s journey from a low-to-no-point-of-charisma-brooding-man-whore to hands-down swoon-worthy mafia badass with a side of Southern mafia family chaos.
It’s our leather jacketed, emotionally unavailable, criminally rude and entirely unpredictable (the “what do you mean I can’t have that, I’ll take what I want” type) Ransom in a Southern mafia setting we’ve seen throughout the Mississippi Smoke series in this book—and I will admit, I spent a lot of the book marvelling at what a genuine softie this man became from the man-child bully he started out as.
Noa Raines is our secretly adorkable, bullied high school wallflower, late-night-texting-turned-book-author-and-covert-librarian cutie who had been his light for over ten years. She was his one and only lifeline. The only person who could ever reach him. Their banter and dynamic is so strong, and really elevates the book. It’s both so funny, so heartwarming, so sweet and so steamy all at the same time. So if you like your romance to have a slow build, you’re in luck. The book is divided into texting/flirty texting/relationship-long past—which just intensifies the connection and the heat—and throws in the delightful “oh my god he doesn’t even recognize me as the same nerdy-girl-his-family-helped-bookworm he met at the library ten years ago as a whole new kind of sexy vixen” moment for extra measure.
The reunion in person is…awkward. She’s changed—she’s writing erotic romance (under a pen name of course) and he’s not the same boy who was always too busy scowling to notice her—now she’s got to deal with the new and improved, asshole-smooth, secretive-as-hell mafia man about town who also just happens to have gang ties (remember, mafia don’t step on each others toes but don’t be surprised if there are a few sideways looks that get tossed around) and can be more emotionally distant, rougher around the edges and frankly a little intimidating. She’s a whole new person and they’re not on the same page, not by a long shot and you can tell from their first awkward real-life get together that things are going to be explosive and turbulent, but oh so very addicting. They’re both dealing with their own personal brand of dark and he has a controlling mafia mother and little sister to keep in line while also trying to learn how to feel again and she has her jerk of a fiancé to break up with, her drama queen mama to ignore and her own well-kept family secrets. The suspense and the sexual tension? 🔥 The build-up, the awwwww moments, the UGH you two! moments and then the OMG when the lines blur across those two worlds? Insane.
Weaved between the tropes you will also find your perfect ratio of spicy, heart, suspense and family/friend drama. I was keto-sweating through the spicy moments, clutching my heart during the emotional moments, LOLing through all the small-town shenanigans and just HOLY CRAP what the WHAT?! in moments that even my most cynical inner critic couldn’t have predicted.
June 17, 2025
I received a copy of this book from the publisher/author to review for Stephanie's Book Reports.
This is the story of Ransom and Noa. If you have been reading the Mississippi Smoke Series then you know who Ransom is. Or who he appears to be. He is cocked as all get out and always takes what he wants and make not apologies for anything he does. Noa is a student librarian. She is bullied something terrible. Made fun of, ignored, taunted, her braces, you name it and they bully her about it. You would think that home would be her safe place, but that's not true in Noa's case. Her mother and her boyfriend are just as bad. She has learned the hard way to keep her head down, work hard and remain as invisible as possible. She has a dream of getting out of Madison, Mississippi, and she is going to get out if it is the last things she ever does. On the day that one of the most popular boys at school speaks to her she thought things were looking up. Until, she realized that Ransom wants something for her. To be his tutor. He needs help with his British Literature so that he could understand what Shakespeare was saying. This however leads to this odd place with them. They aren't in a relationship but things are different. I loved these moments of them together. I thought my little heart would melt and they even kept talking off and on when they finished high school and moved on to college. This has gone one for sixteen years. However, I didn't like the way in high school that if he wasn't with her as his tutor he didn't act like he knew who she was around his friends. Now that she is gone I kind of was hoping that she would be all HA In Your Face buddy about that. But to Ransom those text are his secret and she probably doesn't realize just how much light she brought to him on his darkest days. However, she has been keeping secrets. Her career is not what he thinks and she is super successful author of spicy romance books. When they do finally meet again he is so rude and dismissive. It of course leaves Noa hurt and confused. But you have to read the book to find out what all happens. I loved this story. I loved the secret of their text and how much they meant to him and she had no idea. But man did I want to smack Ransom sometimes. I loved Noa. This poor girls had horrible teenage years but she did not give up on her dreams and got out of the small town in Mississippi. If you have not been reading this series, then you are missing some amazing books. I fyou have and are ready to read this one, you are going to love every single second of it.
This is the story of Ransom and Noa. If you have been reading the Mississippi Smoke Series then you know who Ransom is. Or who he appears to be. He is cocked as all get out and always takes what he wants and make not apologies for anything he does. Noa is a student librarian. She is bullied something terrible. Made fun of, ignored, taunted, her braces, you name it and they bully her about it. You would think that home would be her safe place, but that's not true in Noa's case. Her mother and her boyfriend are just as bad. She has learned the hard way to keep her head down, work hard and remain as invisible as possible. She has a dream of getting out of Madison, Mississippi, and she is going to get out if it is the last things she ever does. On the day that one of the most popular boys at school speaks to her she thought things were looking up. Until, she realized that Ransom wants something for her. To be his tutor. He needs help with his British Literature so that he could understand what Shakespeare was saying. This however leads to this odd place with them. They aren't in a relationship but things are different. I loved these moments of them together. I thought my little heart would melt and they even kept talking off and on when they finished high school and moved on to college. This has gone one for sixteen years. However, I didn't like the way in high school that if he wasn't with her as his tutor he didn't act like he knew who she was around his friends. Now that she is gone I kind of was hoping that she would be all HA In Your Face buddy about that. But to Ransom those text are his secret and she probably doesn't realize just how much light she brought to him on his darkest days. However, she has been keeping secrets. Her career is not what he thinks and she is super successful author of spicy romance books. When they do finally meet again he is so rude and dismissive. It of course leaves Noa hurt and confused. But you have to read the book to find out what all happens. I loved this story. I loved the secret of their text and how much they meant to him and she had no idea. But man did I want to smack Ransom sometimes. I loved Noa. This poor girls had horrible teenage years but she did not give up on her dreams and got out of the small town in Mississippi. If you have not been reading this series, then you are missing some amazing books. I fyou have and are ready to read this one, you are going to love every single second of it.
June 18, 2025
I don’t know what it is about Abbi Glines’ books but they are addictive and I can’t help grabbing them as soon as they appear in my Kindle and devour them. I have been waiting a long time to read Ransom’s story, he always appeared so serious and strict, and he didn’t disappoint!
Ransom and Noa have been “texting pen pals” since high school. Noa tutored Ransom for his British Lit class and he liked how irreverent and funny she was, once Noa got over her shyness. He’s been leaning on the texting between them for support on his worst dark moments and he appreciates her a lot.
Noa is now a best selling author of romance novels, uses the name of Juliette Romeo, so when they met, she recognized him but he didn’t recognize her. From this moment on, the story is a hoot, as Ransom falls in lust with the author who is his best friend in text. Also, she uses him as her hero in her stories, a big reason for her success. Talk about a lot of connecting lines!
Once he learns that she is Noa and he is Draven, the hero in her books, a wonderful and entertaining back and forth ensues, as he battles his growing attachment to the real person, while worrying that the physical relation will affect their texting pen pals relation. He’s so cute and sometimes so clueless! Noa has been in love with him since high school, but likewise, she cherishes their friendship so she follows his cues.
The best part was when they did some “friendly cuddling”, I laughed so much at him trying to convince himself he could get back from that. I loved how hard he fell, how hard he fought it, and how considerate he was of his friend.
He used to joke Bane, Than, and Oz about their psycho behavior when they fell in love, and now the joke’s on him, he joined the psycho club!
The story is lovable in parts, yummy sexy in others, completely riveting and entertaining all the time. It ends in a soft cliffhanger, and I can’t wait for the next part, as I want more of funny Noa and crazy Ransom!
Ransom and Noa have been “texting pen pals” since high school. Noa tutored Ransom for his British Lit class and he liked how irreverent and funny she was, once Noa got over her shyness. He’s been leaning on the texting between them for support on his worst dark moments and he appreciates her a lot.
Noa is now a best selling author of romance novels, uses the name of Juliette Romeo, so when they met, she recognized him but he didn’t recognize her. From this moment on, the story is a hoot, as Ransom falls in lust with the author who is his best friend in text. Also, she uses him as her hero in her stories, a big reason for her success. Talk about a lot of connecting lines!
Once he learns that she is Noa and he is Draven, the hero in her books, a wonderful and entertaining back and forth ensues, as he battles his growing attachment to the real person, while worrying that the physical relation will affect their texting pen pals relation. He’s so cute and sometimes so clueless! Noa has been in love with him since high school, but likewise, she cherishes their friendship so she follows his cues.
The best part was when they did some “friendly cuddling”, I laughed so much at him trying to convince himself he could get back from that. I loved how hard he fell, how hard he fought it, and how considerate he was of his friend.
He used to joke Bane, Than, and Oz about their psycho behavior when they fell in love, and now the joke’s on him, he joined the psycho club!
The story is lovable in parts, yummy sexy in others, completely riveting and entertaining all the time. It ends in a soft cliffhanger, and I can’t wait for the next part, as I want more of funny Noa and crazy Ransom!
June 26, 2025
✨Book Review✨
All Jacked Up by Abbi Glines
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I was beyond lucky to receive an ARC of All Jacked Up by Abbi Glines, and let me tell you it did NOT disappoint! As a fan of morally grey mafia heroes, I was already sold on Rumor, but this book took me to a whole new level of obsession. This book leaves on a cliffhanger I was so not expecting. As I was getting closer to the end I kept telling myself, “This can’t be it!” But, thankfully, it's not, All Tied Up is on the horizon, and I can’t wait!
Let’s talk about Rumor and Noa. Their story is everything I could ever want. It’s the perfect blend of Southern mafia suspense, friends-to-lovers slow burn, and some major personal and character growth. This book has all the right elements that will keep you turning pages late into the night, desperate to know what happens next.
I love that Ransom and Noa have been texting since she was his tutor in high school, building this deep emotional “friendship”, and then throwing in the curveball of Noa turning into a bestselling author using Ransom as the hero in her books? And he had no idea! Talk about a plot twist! It’s got that perfect mix of sweetness and drama.
Ransom’s confusion is so comical. He’s falling for the author he’s been texting with, but doesn’t even realize it’s the same person? Classic case of “I’m totally in love with my best friend, but I’m too clueless to see it.” Meanwhile, Noa’s been harboring feelings for him for years but doesn’t want to mess with their friendship. The way both of them navigate that tension is just too good. Must read to find out how it plays out.
If you love Southern charm with a dangerous edge, loyal friends-to-lovers tension, and a story that leaves your heart pounding, All Jacked Up is a must-read.
Thank you, @wordsmithpublicity and @abbiglines for the ARC. I cannot wait for All Tied Up!
All Jacked Up by Abbi Glines
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I was beyond lucky to receive an ARC of All Jacked Up by Abbi Glines, and let me tell you it did NOT disappoint! As a fan of morally grey mafia heroes, I was already sold on Rumor, but this book took me to a whole new level of obsession. This book leaves on a cliffhanger I was so not expecting. As I was getting closer to the end I kept telling myself, “This can’t be it!” But, thankfully, it's not, All Tied Up is on the horizon, and I can’t wait!
Let’s talk about Rumor and Noa. Their story is everything I could ever want. It’s the perfect blend of Southern mafia suspense, friends-to-lovers slow burn, and some major personal and character growth. This book has all the right elements that will keep you turning pages late into the night, desperate to know what happens next.
I love that Ransom and Noa have been texting since she was his tutor in high school, building this deep emotional “friendship”, and then throwing in the curveball of Noa turning into a bestselling author using Ransom as the hero in her books? And he had no idea! Talk about a plot twist! It’s got that perfect mix of sweetness and drama.
Ransom’s confusion is so comical. He’s falling for the author he’s been texting with, but doesn’t even realize it’s the same person? Classic case of “I’m totally in love with my best friend, but I’m too clueless to see it.” Meanwhile, Noa’s been harboring feelings for him for years but doesn’t want to mess with their friendship. The way both of them navigate that tension is just too good. Must read to find out how it plays out.
If you love Southern charm with a dangerous edge, loyal friends-to-lovers tension, and a story that leaves your heart pounding, All Jacked Up is a must-read.
Thank you, @wordsmithpublicity and @abbiglines for the ARC. I cannot wait for All Tied Up!
June 16, 2025
I will say it every time, Abbi Glines puts crack in her books. I literally pick it up and can’t put it down. If you have read Demons by Abbi Glines and loved Thatcher then you will love Ramon’s story. Ramson is a calmer version of Thatcher. But I think Ramson became my top 3 favorite man in her southern mafi series. Also this book is a 2 part book. The next book comes out July 27 the and I can’t freaking wait!!
Tropes:
Southern Mafi
Morally Grey MC
Romance Author FMC
Touch her ☠️
Secrets
Friends to lovers
Spice: 🌶️🌶️.5
Noa and Ramson went to high school together. She was geeky a little overweight girl in high school. She ends up becoming Ramson’s tutor so he will graduate high school. They end up forming a solid friendship. Even after high school they still text and stay in touch. Fast forward to current day and Noa is engaged to a man who she works with and is a big time romance author. Ramson has no idea about either of these things. Noa knows she needs to tell him about the engagement but she can’t get the words out. Ransom is in New York visiting his sister Opal. Opal is working on book deal and is having dinner with her favorite author and her publisher. When Ramson and his sister show up at the dinner neither one of them recognize Noa. She has definitely changed since high school. The more time Ramson spends around Noa he keeps getting a feeling that she familiar somehow. Ramson goes backs to Mississippi but can’t stop thinking about. Ransom hires a Private Investigator to look into Noa. When he gets the information back he shows up in New York to confront her.
** I want to thank Abbi Glines for giving me the chance to read All Jacked up as an ARC. In exchange for my honest review and thoughts.****
Tropes:
Southern Mafi
Morally Grey MC
Romance Author FMC
Touch her ☠️
Secrets
Friends to lovers
Spice: 🌶️🌶️.5
Noa and Ramson went to high school together. She was geeky a little overweight girl in high school. She ends up becoming Ramson’s tutor so he will graduate high school. They end up forming a solid friendship. Even after high school they still text and stay in touch. Fast forward to current day and Noa is engaged to a man who she works with and is a big time romance author. Ramson has no idea about either of these things. Noa knows she needs to tell him about the engagement but she can’t get the words out. Ransom is in New York visiting his sister Opal. Opal is working on book deal and is having dinner with her favorite author and her publisher. When Ramson and his sister show up at the dinner neither one of them recognize Noa. She has definitely changed since high school. The more time Ramson spends around Noa he keeps getting a feeling that she familiar somehow. Ramson goes backs to Mississippi but can’t stop thinking about. Ransom hires a Private Investigator to look into Noa. When he gets the information back he shows up in New York to confront her.
** I want to thank Abbi Glines for giving me the chance to read All Jacked up as an ARC. In exchange for my honest review and thoughts.****
June 23, 2025
ALL JACKED UP is the newest installment in the mafia romance, MISSISSIPPI SMOKE by Abbi Glines. This book is about Ransom, who is the older brother of the antihero of the last book in the series. Ransom and Noa had a long term, text only friendship that had lasted for ten years, and during that time Noa had transformed from an ugly duckling to a beautiful swan. Her transformation was so complete that when Ransom accompanied his sister to a dinner with her book editor, he didn’t recognize bestselling author, Juliet Romeo, when the editor introduced her. When he ran a background check on Noa to figure out who had upset her later that night, he was shocked to discover that his “Shakespeare” and Juliet Romeo were the same woman. Once he knew, he couldn’t stop obsessing over her. In the author’s true spicy mafia romance style, she has delivered another obsessed, stalker, touch her and die antihero for the books. I love the friends to lovers angle in this book, which ends halfway through their story. Ransom had always lost interest in women once he had slept with them, but his friendship with Noa made their connections so much deeper. When he realized he was also attracted to the woman she had become, it was too late for him. I loved Ransom’s interactions with his family as he came to grips with the change in his feelings for Noa, and I loved seeing her getting what she had always wanted. Readers who enjoy a dark, mafia, contemporary romance should check out this book. Although the entire series is connected, each book functions well as a stand-alone.
I received a free ARC of this book via the author’s ARC Team and Wordsmith Publicity and I’m voluntarily leaving this honest review.
I received a free ARC of this book via the author’s ARC Team and Wordsmith Publicity and I’m voluntarily leaving this honest review.
June 16, 2025
Ransom and Noa will slay you!
Oh, my God! This book slayed me! I LOVED everything about it! The plot – intriguing, flowing, with enough angst to keep me glued to my kindle! I loved both Ransom and Noa, although I must admit that Noa stole my heart a bit more in this one (I have no doubt that Ransom will do the same in the next one too). Noa and Ransom met in high school. She was his tutor for a Shakespeare project (hence his nickname for her: Shakespeare). The ugly-ducky and the popular, larger than life (Mafia) boy. For ten years they have kept a unique type of friendship via texting. He had no idea that she had become not only a stunning woman but also a well-known, best-selling writer – under a pen name inspired by him (he is her muse, in secret). In his mind she is a bookworm editor – his only female (unattractive) friend that he kept for himself alone, the one that grounds him. When they meet and – later – realizes who she is, he struggles. I loved seeing him getting unhinged because, let’s be honest, he is, at heart, just as much of a psycho as any decent Mafia man in this series (and we wouldn’t want it any other way!). Swoon! Noa, I LOVED! Her self-esteem issues stem from growing up with a cruel, uncaring mother. But she wanted to succeed and she did it by herself. Her strength and determination are inspiring. She kept herself kind and loving through everything; a gentle, golden heart in a stunning late-bloomer. I can’t wait for the continuation of their story in the next book, because now I am SO invested! A 5-star read in my opinion!
Oh, my God! This book slayed me! I LOVED everything about it! The plot – intriguing, flowing, with enough angst to keep me glued to my kindle! I loved both Ransom and Noa, although I must admit that Noa stole my heart a bit more in this one (I have no doubt that Ransom will do the same in the next one too). Noa and Ransom met in high school. She was his tutor for a Shakespeare project (hence his nickname for her: Shakespeare). The ugly-ducky and the popular, larger than life (Mafia) boy. For ten years they have kept a unique type of friendship via texting. He had no idea that she had become not only a stunning woman but also a well-known, best-selling writer – under a pen name inspired by him (he is her muse, in secret). In his mind she is a bookworm editor – his only female (unattractive) friend that he kept for himself alone, the one that grounds him. When they meet and – later – realizes who she is, he struggles. I loved seeing him getting unhinged because, let’s be honest, he is, at heart, just as much of a psycho as any decent Mafia man in this series (and we wouldn’t want it any other way!). Swoon! Noa, I LOVED! Her self-esteem issues stem from growing up with a cruel, uncaring mother. But she wanted to succeed and she did it by herself. Her strength and determination are inspiring. She kept herself kind and loving through everything; a gentle, golden heart in a stunning late-bloomer. I can’t wait for the continuation of their story in the next book, because now I am SO invested! A 5-star read in my opinion!
June 17, 2025
All Jacked Up is the latest addition to the Mississippi Smoke series and features Ransome. The Smoke series is so addicting! These southern boys will make you smile and melt your panties off! Each addition has me secluding myself so I can read without interruption. Most of the books are read in 1-2 sittings!
Ransome and Noa have a relationship that has gone back 10 years when Noa tutored him in high school. What started out as texting for tutor times developed into a unique friendship or a texting "pen pal." Ransome has never had a serious relationship, nor does he want one. He is a player and has many women to keep him busy. Ransome is different with Noa. He is kind, supportive and funny. They haven't seen each other since high school and let's just say Noa was a "late bloomer."
I love this series! All Jacked Up is a slow burn. The chemistry between Ransome and Noa is HOT! I love how Ransome tried to sort through his feeling and emotions not realizing that he was a goner for Noa. And then came the crazy! Those southern boys really bring their crazy on for their women. I can wait for their conclusion in All Tied Up. There was also another nugget about the youngest Savelle brother, Kash!
4.5 stars
#AuthorAbbiGlines #AllJackedUp #Outlaw #HellOrHighWater #Oh,HellNo #HotterN'Hell #ToreUp #RansomeAndNoa #SmokeSeries #GeorgiaSmoke#JudgementSeries #Romance #Mafia #SlowBurn #HotAndSteamy #SouthernMafia #spicy
Ransome and Noa have a relationship that has gone back 10 years when Noa tutored him in high school. What started out as texting for tutor times developed into a unique friendship or a texting "pen pal." Ransome has never had a serious relationship, nor does he want one. He is a player and has many women to keep him busy. Ransome is different with Noa. He is kind, supportive and funny. They haven't seen each other since high school and let's just say Noa was a "late bloomer."
I love this series! All Jacked Up is a slow burn. The chemistry between Ransome and Noa is HOT! I love how Ransome tried to sort through his feeling and emotions not realizing that he was a goner for Noa. And then came the crazy! Those southern boys really bring their crazy on for their women. I can wait for their conclusion in All Tied Up. There was also another nugget about the youngest Savelle brother, Kash!
4.5 stars
#AuthorAbbiGlines #AllJackedUp #Outlaw #HellOrHighWater #Oh,HellNo #HotterN'Hell #ToreUp #RansomeAndNoa #SmokeSeries #GeorgiaSmoke#JudgementSeries #Romance #Mafia #SlowBurn #HotAndSteamy #SouthernMafia #spicy
June 17, 2025
** 5 + stars **
All Jacked Up is another amazing book from this very talented author. Her books pull me in with their story and their emotions. This was no exception. I loved the characters.
The story starts out when we go back in time to when Ransom was in high school. He met Noa who was going to be his tutor for English literature. Noa is basically a nerd who gets bullied and made fun of a lot for her appearance. She doesn't have a good home life either. Ransom is a popular boy in her school. He makes friends with her and they begin a text relationship. They enjoy texting each other throughout the years but haven't seen each other in a long time. Meanwhile Noa has gone on to become a very successful author with a fiance'. Ransom has no idea how successful she is or what her job is. When they do see each other at a funny turn of events she is surprised at how much better looking Ransom is. He, on the other hand, has no idea who she is. He has no idea that the beautiful woman he is looking at is actually his text buddy Noa.
This story was so good that I couldn't put it down. I read it in a day. It was so enjoyable. The chemistry between Ransom and Noa was so good. How can they go back to being text friends? You have to read this one. It was the perfect friends to lovers story. Be aware that it does end on a cliffhanger. I can't wait to see what happens next.
Thank you to the author for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
All Jacked Up is another amazing book from this very talented author. Her books pull me in with their story and their emotions. This was no exception. I loved the characters.
The story starts out when we go back in time to when Ransom was in high school. He met Noa who was going to be his tutor for English literature. Noa is basically a nerd who gets bullied and made fun of a lot for her appearance. She doesn't have a good home life either. Ransom is a popular boy in her school. He makes friends with her and they begin a text relationship. They enjoy texting each other throughout the years but haven't seen each other in a long time. Meanwhile Noa has gone on to become a very successful author with a fiance'. Ransom has no idea how successful she is or what her job is. When they do see each other at a funny turn of events she is surprised at how much better looking Ransom is. He, on the other hand, has no idea who she is. He has no idea that the beautiful woman he is looking at is actually his text buddy Noa.
This story was so good that I couldn't put it down. I read it in a day. It was so enjoyable. The chemistry between Ransom and Noa was so good. How can they go back to being text friends? You have to read this one. It was the perfect friends to lovers story. Be aware that it does end on a cliffhanger. I can't wait to see what happens next.
Thank you to the author for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
June 23, 2025
I know I say this every time I meet a new character in this series, but Ransom has officially stolen my heart. There’s something about him. The twist that he and Noa had been text pen pals for so long? Chef’s kiss. It added so much depth and anticipation to their story.
Noa was the calm in his storm. Even though their connection was only through text, she grounded him in a way nothing else did. Her presence despite the distance gave him an anchor to hold onto, even when everything else was spinning.
And Noa? Total glow-up. But what really struck me was how, underneath the external change, she was still carrying the emotional scars from her childhood. Her mother’s cruelty left marks, and she’s been surviving ever since but she was strong enough to walk away and start fresh, but still learning how to really heal.
The moment everything shifts is when Ransom walks into that business dinner and has no idea who the beauty at the table is. You could feel the air get sucked out of the room. That kind of slow-burn tension is what Abbi Glines does best.
Even though this is only Part One of their story, there’s no major cliffhanger—but it’s clear their journey is far from over. The “Family” dynamics are still dark, twisted, and full of secrets, and you just know more is coming. I can’t wait to see where this goes next.
Noa was the calm in his storm. Even though their connection was only through text, she grounded him in a way nothing else did. Her presence despite the distance gave him an anchor to hold onto, even when everything else was spinning.
And Noa? Total glow-up. But what really struck me was how, underneath the external change, she was still carrying the emotional scars from her childhood. Her mother’s cruelty left marks, and she’s been surviving ever since but she was strong enough to walk away and start fresh, but still learning how to really heal.
The moment everything shifts is when Ransom walks into that business dinner and has no idea who the beauty at the table is. You could feel the air get sucked out of the room. That kind of slow-burn tension is what Abbi Glines does best.
Even though this is only Part One of their story, there’s no major cliffhanger—but it’s clear their journey is far from over. The “Family” dynamics are still dark, twisted, and full of secrets, and you just know more is coming. I can’t wait to see where this goes next.
June 19, 2025
Ransom knew that being part of the family meant no secrets – but he had one. He’d kept in touch with the tutor for over ten years. She was the one person that didn’t want him for what they could get and was just happy to chat with him, but it was all over text.
Noa had been bullied in high school and that continued, although Ransom didn’t, while she was tutoring him he was the nicest person, but after he ignored her. However, for 10 years they kept in touch through text, which surprised her. When Noa got the chance to publish a book she wasn’t going to use her real name, worried that if she failed the bullies would come out, but she didn’t fail.
In there text they shared everything or so Ransom thought, when he goes to a meeting with his sister to an editor and an author, he can’t work out why Noa ignores him. So, he does what his family does and investigates her. When Ransom finds out who Noa is, the author that he couldn’t take his eyes off, he goes to her house, he knows it’s wrong, he knows if they cross the line he will ruin the one thing is his life that he had in the world he lived in.
Ransom doesn’t do relationships, but the more he sees Noa the harder it is to stay away.
Can’t wait to see what happens next
Noa had been bullied in high school and that continued, although Ransom didn’t, while she was tutoring him he was the nicest person, but after he ignored her. However, for 10 years they kept in touch through text, which surprised her. When Noa got the chance to publish a book she wasn’t going to use her real name, worried that if she failed the bullies would come out, but she didn’t fail.
In there text they shared everything or so Ransom thought, when he goes to a meeting with his sister to an editor and an author, he can’t work out why Noa ignores him. So, he does what his family does and investigates her. When Ransom finds out who Noa is, the author that he couldn’t take his eyes off, he goes to her house, he knows it’s wrong, he knows if they cross the line he will ruin the one thing is his life that he had in the world he lived in.
Ransom doesn’t do relationships, but the more he sees Noa the harder it is to stay away.
Can’t wait to see what happens next
June 27, 2025
High school tutor, long time friends
Friends is a stretch! More like occasional texting with a fat nerdy girl that tutored Ransom in high school!
Noa is not what you expect! She was the chubby girl with braces, tutoring high school kids in English to avoid the shit show at home!
Determined to make a better life for herself she secures a scholarship, finds her a best friend, graduates and a great job as an editor in NYC!
Ransom enjoyed his long time “text”ship with Noa. 10 years later he still imagines her as a chubby girl with duck lips! Noa is part of his life that he has never shared with anyone!
Years later they text from time to time but as fate would have it they bump into one another at a Club and Noa knows exactly who is is but she has changed her so much Ransom has no clue!
And now the wheels of fate begins to turn and one encounter turns into another and now Ransom finds himself in a situation that he never imagined!
The crazy thing is Noa is engaged!
Read the book to find out more!
Similar plot to other mafia stories but this one continues! Book 2 comes out in July 2026!
I love the southern mafia boys so of course I’m giving it 5 stars!
I sit down and get vested in the book and it’s finished overnight!
Friends is a stretch! More like occasional texting with a fat nerdy girl that tutored Ransom in high school!
Noa is not what you expect! She was the chubby girl with braces, tutoring high school kids in English to avoid the shit show at home!
Determined to make a better life for herself she secures a scholarship, finds her a best friend, graduates and a great job as an editor in NYC!
Ransom enjoyed his long time “text”ship with Noa. 10 years later he still imagines her as a chubby girl with duck lips! Noa is part of his life that he has never shared with anyone!
Years later they text from time to time but as fate would have it they bump into one another at a Club and Noa knows exactly who is is but she has changed her so much Ransom has no clue!
And now the wheels of fate begins to turn and one encounter turns into another and now Ransom finds himself in a situation that he never imagined!
The crazy thing is Noa is engaged!
Read the book to find out more!
Similar plot to other mafia stories but this one continues! Book 2 comes out in July 2026!
I love the southern mafia boys so of course I’m giving it 5 stars!
I sit down and get vested in the book and it’s finished overnight!
June 27, 2025
Friends is a stretch! More like occasional texting with a fat nerdy girl that tutored Ransom in high school!
Noa is not what you expect! She was the chubby girl with braces, tutoring high school kids in English to avoid the shit show at home!
Determined to make a better life for herself she secures a scholarship, finds her a best friend, graduates and a great job as an editor in NYC!
Ransom enjoyed his long time “text”ship with Noa. 10 years later he still imagines her as a chubby girl with duck lips! Noa is part of his life that he has never shared with anyone!
Years later they text from time to time but as fate would have it they bump into one another at a Club and Noa knows exactly who is is but she has changed her so much Ransom has no clue!
And now the wheels of fate begins to turn and one encounter turns into another and now Ransom finds himself in a situation that he never imagined!
The crazy thing is Noa is engaged!
Read the book to find out more!
Similar plot to other mafia stories but this one continues! Book 2 comes out in July 2026!
I love the southern mafia boys so of course I’m giving it 5 stars!
I sit down and get vested in the book and it’s finished overnight!
Noa is not what you expect! She was the chubby girl with braces, tutoring high school kids in English to avoid the shit show at home!
Determined to make a better life for herself she secures a scholarship, finds her a best friend, graduates and a great job as an editor in NYC!
Ransom enjoyed his long time “text”ship with Noa. 10 years later he still imagines her as a chubby girl with duck lips! Noa is part of his life that he has never shared with anyone!
Years later they text from time to time but as fate would have it they bump into one another at a Club and Noa knows exactly who is is but she has changed her so much Ransom has no clue!
And now the wheels of fate begins to turn and one encounter turns into another and now Ransom finds himself in a situation that he never imagined!
The crazy thing is Noa is engaged!
Read the book to find out more!
Similar plot to other mafia stories but this one continues! Book 2 comes out in July 2026!
I love the southern mafia boys so of course I’m giving it 5 stars!
I sit down and get vested in the book and it’s finished overnight!
June 16, 2025
So, so good. Loved every second of it!
Abbi is a goddess and has found her groove writing about hot Mafia men and their women!
I’ve read all the other novels in this series and loved every single one—but this one might just be my favorite yet. It did not disappoint. I love how Abbi always writes morally gray heroes, they’re intense, complicated, and completely captivating.
I was so excited for Ransom’s story. Noa and Ransom went to high school together. Back then, she was the slightly geeky, overweight, glasses wearing girl with big lips that her brace accentuated! She is so overlooked by boys and girls at school. She ends up becoming his tutor to help him graduate. Over time, they formed a solid friendship, and even after high school, they continued to text and stay in touch.
From the very first chapter, I was hooked. This book had me on the edge of my seat, constantly guessing what would happen next. Ransom and Noa together? The chemistry was perfection. I loved watching their walls slowly come down as they grew closer.
What an ending and now I’m counting down the days until the next book comes out because I need to know what’s next for Ransom.
Abbi is a goddess and has found her groove writing about hot Mafia men and their women!
I’ve read all the other novels in this series and loved every single one—but this one might just be my favorite yet. It did not disappoint. I love how Abbi always writes morally gray heroes, they’re intense, complicated, and completely captivating.
I was so excited for Ransom’s story. Noa and Ransom went to high school together. Back then, she was the slightly geeky, overweight, glasses wearing girl with big lips that her brace accentuated! She is so overlooked by boys and girls at school. She ends up becoming his tutor to help him graduate. Over time, they formed a solid friendship, and even after high school, they continued to text and stay in touch.
From the very first chapter, I was hooked. This book had me on the edge of my seat, constantly guessing what would happen next. Ransom and Noa together? The chemistry was perfection. I loved watching their walls slowly come down as they grew closer.
What an ending and now I’m counting down the days until the next book comes out because I need to know what’s next for Ransom.
June 18, 2025
Ok but why does everything Abbi writes have me in a chokehold?!
I think this may be my favorite story yet. All Jacked Up gives us Ransom and he’s long held secret friend, Noa. They’ve known each other since high school and they have formed an unlikely yet secret friendship. One that has lasted through the years. A text friendship that allows you to share what you want and hide what you don’t want others to see.
For Ransom, that’s being in the mafia. For Noa, it’s a so much more.
When they come face to face after years apart and Ransom doesn’t recognize her, it sets off a chain of events that leads to some very angsty moments filled with want and chemistry. That whole look but don’t touch vibe is STRONG.
I’ll preface this next part by letting you know, book 2 is coming!!
And I need it because All Jacked Up only gave a tiny glimpse of Ransom’s crazy and I need a whole lot more! I need my man to burn with want and possessiveness and become just a little unhinged for Noa. Someone needs to die for messing with our girl. Cause I’ll tell you what, after that back story, my girl deserves the whole world!
July 27th cannot come fast enough!!
I think this may be my favorite story yet. All Jacked Up gives us Ransom and he’s long held secret friend, Noa. They’ve known each other since high school and they have formed an unlikely yet secret friendship. One that has lasted through the years. A text friendship that allows you to share what you want and hide what you don’t want others to see.
For Ransom, that’s being in the mafia. For Noa, it’s a so much more.
When they come face to face after years apart and Ransom doesn’t recognize her, it sets off a chain of events that leads to some very angsty moments filled with want and chemistry. That whole look but don’t touch vibe is STRONG.
I’ll preface this next part by letting you know, book 2 is coming!!
And I need it because All Jacked Up only gave a tiny glimpse of Ransom’s crazy and I need a whole lot more! I need my man to burn with want and possessiveness and become just a little unhinged for Noa. Someone needs to die for messing with our girl. Cause I’ll tell you what, after that back story, my girl deserves the whole world!
July 27th cannot come fast enough!!
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