Carrick

by Elle Sparrow

I don’t do rules.
I don’t do attachments.
And I sure as hell don’t do complicated.

But Bellamy Barrett is all three.

Protecting her was the plan. Keep her safe, keep it professional, and keep my distance while the team works to figure out how deep her brother is in with the Dom Krovi—the most vicious crime syndicate in the Midwest.

But Bellamy doesn’t make anything easy. She’s mouthy, stubborn, and way too tempting for someone I’m supposed to keep at arm’s length.

I’ve seen war. I’ve built my life on instinct and violence.
But this woman? She’s the kind of danger I never saw coming.

I told myself I wouldn’t touch her.
I never said I wouldn’t fall.

And if anyone tries to take her—
They’ll find out exactly what kind of monster I am.

Genres: Dark Romance, Dark

547 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 8, 2025

Reviews

[Petra Hart · Rating 3 out of 5]

I remain invested in this series even tho they so badly need editing. This one was more problematic than the other two. Sadism isn’t my kink but i feel like books with heavy impact play should be somewhat realistic about the results. In their very first scene — at her explicit request — Carrick uses 8 different implements at full force on her. No blood is drawn (really?), and she moves through the next day (I think she welds something) without any pain at all. That didn’t work for me. Aren’t the marks the point?

BDSM: deep pain; no blood or permanent marks
Spanking, paddle, flogger, baton, canes, crop, dragon tail
Consent: explicit — she initiates the scenes
Dirty talk: not dirty, more like religion
Piercings: none
Dynamic: sadist, masochist
Age gap? No
Body image issues? No
Relationship: MF

The series:
Nico=brat tamer (Maddy)
Carrick=sadist (Bellamy)
Jax=ropemaster (Stella)
Sully=Daddy Dom (Violet)
Deacon=
Quinn=

[Amber · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! The way Carrick learned Bellamy and her needs so fast and knew what she needed without her saying. He was everything. He could read her nonverbal cues and understood what she was feeling before she did.
I loved Nikolai but Carrick is something else. He's just returned from a 3 month mission when they learn they will need to protect another person in their safehouse. Bellamy's brother is tangled up in the Mafia and he's disappeared so they are coming for her.
Carrick is immediately drawn to Bellamy's sass and fierce independence. They flirt and he finds out she's in the lifestyle and needs a scene to feel grounded. They decide it will just be that, no emotions, nothing. The longer she's with them, the closer she and Carrick become. It's more than a power dynamic, he starts to feel something real. She's scared and unsure, she had a rough life growing up and doesn't trust easily.
They get word from her brother so Carrick and Quinn meet up with him. It ends in tragedy. Can Bellamy learn to trust?

[Megan Moser · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5🌟

What makes this series so unique is that Elle has taken her love for writing and beautifully combined it with her passion and knowledge for the kink space. I can say I learned quite a bit in this book and it was all so fascinating.

The premise to the story is hard hitting with the Kansas City Reapers are basically modern day superheroes protecting women who need to escape dangerous situations and now they have also become a bit of a safe house. Carrick, our MMC, is this dominant yet gentle man who apparently is very talented in the link space. Our FMC is staying with them after her brother fell into trouble with the local mafia and have now set their sights on her. She also has a very deep history with the kink world after needing a way to channel the trauma and emotion from her past.

This is the perfect combination of respectful kink and a suspense filled plot. The banter, the chemistry between all of the characters, and the heavy topics strewn throughout made for a very entertaining read!

[ANDREA · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.0⭐️ I was lucky enough to get to read this as an ARC🥰😍. Thank you so much Elle!🫶🏼🫶🏼

This one didn’t hit me the same way as the first book, Nikolai. I really enjoyed reading about Carrick and Bell’s story. It was beautiful to see them getting close and grow emotionally. I love how she always finds comfort in him and he always knows what she needs🩷

Carrick is bae, I absolutely love and adore him. He probably seems like an asshole to everyone else but with Bell he is so caring and sweet… until he isn’t🤭😈⛓️
The smut was smutting and like the first book I really love how much focus is on consent (especially in the scene with Jax🤭). There is a lot of BDSM so make sure to read the trigger warnings but I think it was done beautifully, very descriptive, intimate and respectful⛓️🖤

As much as I love Bellamy, her screaming fits were a bit repetitive BUT the girl had valid points and opinions, so 100% team Bellamy! but yea it was a bit too much at times. Maddy is the best girly girl tho, always standing by Bell and I really loved it. She could have taken Niko’s side but she stood by Bellamy which is important, especially when dealing with 5 hard headed ex-military men.

I also learned to love Deacon a lot more now, he was so kind and fair to Bellamy and listened to her when she voiced her opinions and complains. I feel like he deserves his own book😍😍


🚨 ‼️⚠️‼️🚨
Warning: Minor spoiler alert
🚨 ‼️⚠️‼️🚨

One character I dislike a little bit after this read is Nikolai.. I’m sorry😅 He was amazing in the first book but here he was always a pent up asshole in this one. It was like he always had a stick up his ass. I know he is the one in command and needs to be like that sometimes but he could have been more understanding after Carrick took Bellamy to her apartment. Nobody can tell me he wouldn’t have done the same or figured out some way if it had been Maddy🥸

[Jennifer Ervine · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’m really enjoying the overall story of the Kansas City Reapers series. The suspense and action are great and I can’t put them down. I have mixed feelings about Carrick’s story. I fell in love with Carrick’s personality. The way he is just the Dominant Bellamy needs, even if it breaks him in the process. Bellamy is dealing with a lot of emotional distress and used to dealing with it on her own, so I understand her issues. However, to me she just comes across selfish most of the time. Even when she is starting to feel more for him, she’s still blaming and demanding things she doesn’t understand. I love that whole family is so forgiving and understanding. The banter between everyone during family activities had me laughing so hard. I can’t wait to see whose story is next!

[Mel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good enjoyable story. It was nice to get to know more about Carrick, although Nikolai seemed different in this book.
I love the whole crew. I hope they all have individual stories.
This is a spicy story with BDSM so beware of triggers. Bellamy needs to be pushed past her pain limit to cope with her emotional pain. Loved she was a strong, fierce character.
I am really looking forward to seeing where the story goes next.

[Chelsie McClure · Rating 4 out of 5]

review to come

[Lauren Head · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book! Chapter 37 absolutely wrecked me emotionally! So worth reading! I can’t wait for more!

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Carrick by Elle Sparrow (The Kansas City Reapers Series – Book 2)

“To the reader who’s tired of being soft. May he drag you into the dark, pin you against your limits, and ruin your body until all that’s left is obedience and a puddle where your bratty mouth used to be. May he call you beautiful when you’re crying, and make you beg for mercy just so he can deny it.” - Elle Sparrow

If you are looking for a dark, pulse-pounding romance with an edge of danger, Carrick by Elle Sparrow delivers. This isn’t your average mafia romance – it’s a brutal adventure through witness protection, power struggles and the kind of love that is both romantic and raw.

The heartbeat of the story is Carrick, a lethal, loyal, ex-military man who is complicated, deeply guarded and focused on doing his job. He enjoys keeping busy and working hard. But his focus is obstructed when the new witness comes to their safe house. Being sought after by the Russian mafia, Bellemy is brought to their fortress for safety and security. Carrick doesn’t realize it at first, but his life takes a turn once he meets this woman. He proves to be a fearless, obsessive and fiercely violent protector.

The heroine’s journey is just as compelling. Bellemy’s not your normal damsel-in-distress; she’s desperate for freedom from her past and her present. And she needs the freedom that only Carrick can give. She is strong to a fault, and presents a deep, antagonizing draw to Carrick. The emotional push and pull between these two characters is sexy and raw, while still being tender.

This is the second of five “Reaper” series books – based on the five ex-special ops veterans who have built a witness protection program deeply set in a forest near Kansas City. Each of the men have their special talents, and Carrick’s isn't hard to miss. He doesn’t ask for permission, instead he injects his own set of rules and then breaks them, all while trying to keep his focus on the one person who can truly see and need him.

This story was so captivating, I had a hard time doing anything else until it was finished. I loved it! Sparrow has this beautiful way of creating a tale so vivid that you can feel the fear, the joy or the anticipation of each of the characters. Her attention to detail is spot on. Following suit to her previous books, Elle Sparrow has again created a backdrop where she tells an exciting story while incorporating her special talent of inter-twining BDSM. The spice levels in Carrick are off the charts, but it’s not erotica. It’s a calculated, slow burn that builds with intensity and can be compared to Carrick’s nature: raw, unfiltered and bordering dangerous and addictive. And the aftercare – Chef’s Kiss!

Favorite Quote – “And that’s when I realized they weren’t just security detail. They were human. Weird. Brilliant. Deeply chaotic. But human.” – Elle Sparrow “Carrick”

Plot – Adventurous, Romantic, Frustrating, Exciting

Spice Level – 🌶 🌶🌶🌶🌶

Tropes – Impact Play, Trauma Bonding & Emotional Healing, Edging, Rough Body Play (More listed in the book.)

Favorite Parts – Relationships in the house when all the characters are together. The banter, the joy and the feeling of togetherness add great balance to the heavy storyline.

Triggers – Murder, Gun Violence, BDSM, Spanking & Impact (More listed in the book.)

[smutty.spade.queen · Rating 4 out of 5]

I just finished Carrick by Elle Sparrow, and I’m incredibly grateful to have received another ARC in the Kansas City Reapers series. This series continues to impress me with how distinct each book feels, even as it builds into a cohesive, emotionally layered world.

What stands out most is how unique each couple’s story is—not just in personality and backstory, but also in how their emotional and sexual needs are portrayed. Elle does a phenomenal job honoring kink in nuanced, informed, and respectful ways that feel deeply personal for each pairing. Carrick is vastly different from Nikolai, which leaned more primal, fast-paced, and banter-heavy. Carrick is slower, more emotional, and deeply intimate.

Carrick and Bellamy’s connection is quiet and profound. Their love isn’t loud or flashy—it’s unspoken but undeniable. Carrick sees Bellamy—truly sees her—for who she is and what she needs, even when she’s still wrestling with trauma from her past and present. She’s in witness protection due to a devastating situation with her brother, and Carrick never hesitates to center her healing. He puts her needs before his own in a way that’s selfless, beautiful, and at times, dangerous for him.

The spice in this book is more emotional than explicit, but when it hits… wow. 🔥 My personal favorites? The garage scene and the rope scene. Elle handles kink and trauma-informed intimacy with such care and authenticity. Definitely check your content warnings, but also trust that this is written with love and knowledge of the kink community.

The dynamic between the Reapers is so well-written—funny, comforting, chaotic in the best way. I legit laughed out loud during the game night and movie night scenes. Elle balances the darker themes of the story with warmth and humor, and those moments of light made the heavier ones hit even harder. It gave Bellamy space to breathe and heal, and it made me love this world even more.

I also loved the glimpses we got of Sully’s humor, more of Deacon (!!!), and Jax, who I’m dying to learn more about…

This one goes on the shelf next to Nikolai—no question. Thank you, Elle, for another beautiful, emotional, and completely addictive addition to the Reapers world.

[Lust & Literary Trauma · Rating 3 out of 5]

Witness protection meets ex-military found family? Yes, please. The setup for Carrick had all the makings of a story I was very ready to devour. Throw in some BDSM and emotional healing, and I was buckled in and ready for the ride.

Let’s start with what absolutely delivered: the kink. The BDSM in this book was incredibly well done—thoughtful, consensual, and hot. Like, “I need a glass of ice water and a moment to myself” hot. There was a ton of variety too (shibari, impact play, and more), and it was clear the author put care into these scenes. Loved it. No notes.

And Carrick himself? The blueprint. Dominant and caring, firm but soft-hearted, emotionally intelligent and very skilled at aftercare. If I could order him off the internet, I’d have him in my cart already. He was such a grounded presence in the book, and I honestly would’ve read 400 pages of him just making people feel safe.

Bellamy, on the other hand, was a bit tougher for me to connect with. I fully understand that she’s under a lot of stress and carrying the weight of her brother’s situation, but at times she came off a little self-focused. Her emotional needs were front and center, which makes sense, but it also left Carrick’s inner world feeling a bit underexplored. I think I just wanted to see more reciprocity between them, especially given how central their dynamic was to the story.

The book leaned heavily on character development, which I typically love, but it felt like some moments were revisited a few too many times. There’s a bit of a cycle—emotional breakdown, BDSM release, repeat—that started to wear thin for me around the halfway mark. I think a tighter edit could’ve really helped the pacing and made the emotional arcs hit even harder.

That said, the supporting cast totally won me over. The found family aspect was warm and inviting, and I am already crossing my fingers that Sully gets his own book. He was the cinnamon roll comic relief I didn’t know I needed.

Overall, Carrick gave me some unforgettable moments, a whole lot of heat, and a dom I’d follow to the ends of the earth. It’s not without its flaws, but it’s definitely worth picking up if you’re looking for a character-driven story with big emotions, steamy kink, and a heart full of found family vibes.

[C_C · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC REVIEW

"Carrick"

The Kansas City Reapers Book 2

By Elle Sparrow


This book had me completely off my comfort zone.
There are a lot of BDSM details, very descriptive, intimate, respectful and beautifully written.
A world I have never read much about and Carrick drives us readers through this highway mixed with a rollercoaster.

I remember reaching page 99 and I had already more than 10 highlighted quotes - I was really mesmerized how into this book I was.

Thank you to the author for this truly spicy-amazing-steamy ARC.

---

Some of my favorite quotes (there are so-so many more):

voice like warm bread and Sunday morning.

“She’s vintage. Vintage women don’t like being replaced.”

I told myself not to look. Not to fall for the devil in grease-stained jeans.
But it was already too late.

The air between us buzzed with tension that seemed to breathe on its own.

It wasn’t fair — how easily he slipped under my skin.

"Librarian by day, auto surgeon by night?"
She didn’t look up. “Women contain multitudes, Carrick. Try to keep up.”

“I’m not calm,” she said. “I’m surviving.”

She was fire. And I was already halfway burned.

“You’re dangerous, you know that?”

She wasn’t just fire.
She was the tinder and the gasoline.
And me? I was the fool holding the match.

“I want to feel like I’m not running. For once.”

“I’ve spanked girls for less sass than you’re giving me.”
Bellamy snorted. “Is that supposed to scare me?”

Silence wasn’t silence. It was a living thing that crawled into your bones and made every breath feel deafening, every thought impossible to shut off.

I told him I wanted to be undone.

This girl didn’t want mercy. She wanted to burn.
And I was going to make her glow.

I felt his absence like a hole in my chest.

“I like how I feel when I’m around you. Like… I’m not just surviving.”

That sound - her voice whispering my name like a promise - I could’ve died from it.

[sycokittykat - Stefanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Buckle up cause this one is going to be a ride

Carrick is book two in this series and while technically you could read it on it's own you would miss out on the underlying issues the guys are currently trying to overcome. 

Carrick just returned from a mission away and is immediately told they are adding another woman to their safe house.  Bellamy Barrett is being moved into protection because her brother now owes the Mafia money. This adds to the overall theme of the series in them trying to take down the  Dom Krovi.

Bellamy did not have any easy life growing up and it was really just her and her brother through foster care and after. They have had each others back and always took care of each other. So now she needs to find her brother and make sure he is safe. Unfortunately that is not as easy as it seems.

This book digs more into the kinks. Bellamy uses pain to stop over thinking or just get out of her head when she can no longer deal with whatever is weighing her down. Lucky for her Carrick is absolutely the man for this job. 

Watching these two open up and break for each other is beautiful and brutal. It is scary to let someone in when they push through all your personal rules and boundaries as if they never existed. The way they open up to each other is not typical but it is felt deeply in the story. 

I absolutely love reading about all the different implements and how they are being used. Each tool has its time and place it just needs to be the right one for the current situation. I also loved seeing the scene with the Rigger and him explaining each piece of the process. I love the in depth way Elle uses the kinks for the particular book and needs.

I am all here for each additional piece of the puzzle and of course getting to know each of the Reapers better as well. Each of the men is so uniquely different and I can't wait to see what we learn next.  

[Arin · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a remarkable emotional roller coaster ride I’m surprised Carrick character was not what I was expecting in my head. With that being said I’m so happy with what Elle did with the story I will forever love these characters no matter what! The beginning of the story starts off hilariously funny I love the friendship these people have and their interactions with each other ,alongside each other it feels like they’re completely opposite of one another. That makes it perfect in my opinion in so many ways as am sure a lot of people reading the series will agree. Bellamy is a whole other level of independent spitfire than Maddy character! The guys have to learn to let the ( witness) Express herself among other things. I personally feel like I can relate to her on some level with how she handled her feelings like her I would rather be able to let everything out of my mind for a while. I love that Carrick helps her without second guessing everything cause of her state / being female! I feel like they are perfect for each other in every way possible they seem wired the same way. I feel like there is a little of everything in this book I personally loved it but it has a lot topics/ themes that can be hard to handle please read the author note. So much intentionally throughout this book it had me holding my breath I feel like I was on the edge of a cliff watching, unpredictable outcomes, conflicting action packed choices, lot of funny moments, steamy moments, learning to trust/ letting go, and a crazy mysterious ending that will have you yelling and wanting more right away! The author did a amazing job with detailed among everything else I can’t wait for book 3 I’m so excited for each men to get a story! I love their different personalities and the sassy fireball independent woman who reminds that they’re human plus other things Elle comes up with!:)

[Kerry Officer · Rating 4 out of 5]

💥 "You don’t always get to choose the pain… but sometimes, you get to choose how to survive it."

💔 Bellamy... my God, what a woman. She’s thrown into witness protection after a tragedy that leaves her powerless, raw, and consumed by guilt over her brother. Placed in a safehouse full of intense former special ops men, she’s not just grieving — she’s cracking. And her only lifeline? The BDSM lifestyle that’s become her emotional release — a space where she can feel safely, surrender fully, and shed the pain she can’t control. 😢🥀

Enter Carrick — her protector, her match, her Dom. 😮‍💨 This man sees her the moment she walks through the door. His quiet dominance, his grounded strength, his understanding of who she is beneath the walls — I LOVED the silence and just how being present. He doesn’t just play the part — he lives it. He knows exactly when to push, when to hold back, and when to demand everything from her in the name of healing. 😭🖤

⚠️ Yes, the book dives into the BDSM dynamic with beautifully crafted, consensual, and emotionally driven scenes — but it’s not just about the kink. It’s about building trust, reclaiming control, and forging intimacy in the wreckage of grief. The aftercare? The emotional exposure? The mutual vulnerability? I felt every breath, every heartbeat, every unspoken word in those scenes. 🫠🌶️🌶️🌶️

💣 And let’s not forget the bigger arc. There’s a criminal web to unravel — the same darkness that brought Bellamy into Carrick’s orbit. You see more of the elite protection team, this found family of broken, beautiful warriors who fight like hell for the people they protect... and for each other. This series is clearly going to peel back layers of pain, purpose, and passion across every man in that house until each one finds his other. 🥺💥

[Melissa Christina Morris · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book, the 2nd in the Kansas City Reapers series, is without a doubt another masterpiece.  The story of Carrick and Bellamy is a Rollercoaster from start to finish. You will laugh, you will scream and yes and you will shatter. I promise. You will feel, really feel, most of all.
From even what seems most predictable,  isn't. You really don't know the next twist around the corner. And there's a few. Get ready
We also get to revisit our other favorite couple Niko and Maddy as well as the other Reapers, as the safehouse figures prominently again. So, enjoy that fun banter and the budding girlie friendship as both Bellamy and Maddy bond, in their own way.
One thing you need to know about Elle. She does BDSM and kink right. Safely, beautifully and full of heat and emotion. Its real and raw, even at its worst. She refuses to sugarcoat or wash it over. This subject is her nich and she does it to perfection. 

Trust me, dive into Carrick. You will not regret it. Not a teeny bit. Start with Nikolai first though if you haven't already.

Addendum: I've had ample time to attempt to process and actually digest and sit with this book and let me tell you. It carved a niche place in my brain for it to reside as my lifestyle goals checklist. Carrick and his mannerisms just work at my soul in a way I truly never known I needed. In fact bits and pieces of all our author's favorite voices in her head combined would truly scratch that Dominant/Daddy/Top/Rigger/Sadist...etc...hands i need to be in.

Truly, I cannot get over this book. Between Nikolai and Carrick I'm a needy feral mess. Happily. Bring on the next. I'm ready....I think.

[Natalie (Novels__&__Needles) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Received as an ARC.

Carrick is like getting hit with a beautiful, brutal freight train of feelings…..and honestly, I’m still recovering. Carrick and Ashton? These two are a hot mess wrapped in sarcasm, heartbreak, and all the delicious tension you didn’t know you were starving for. The kind of duo that makes you scream, Why won’t you just talk to each other?! but also Keep the chaos coming!

Carrick is brooding, rough around the edges perfection, while Ashton’s sharp wit and stubborn heart make for a combustible mix. Their banter? Legendary. Their emotional walls? Basically a fortress of solitude. Watching them claw their way through misunderstandings, secrets, and a painfully slow thaw is simultaneously infuriating (drove me up the bloody wall) and utterly addictive. Spoiler: I was cheering, crying, and clutching my metaphorical pearls the entire time.

Elle doesn’t hold back on the feels or the sass. The dialogue snaps like a whip, the pacing zips along, and the emotional depth? Chef’s kiss. The tension is so thick you could cut it with a knife (or maybe a sarcastic quip). Plus, the side characters bring extra flavour, making this world feel lived in and wildly entertaining on the page.

If you’re craving a slow burn romance with complex characters, razor sharp banter, and enough angst to fuel a small city, Carrick is your next obsession. Five stars because this book wrecked me, in the best way possible, and I’m already itching for more from Elle’s ever genius mind.

[TrishSparklerReads · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Carrick” by Elle Sparrow
Series: Kansas City Reapers Book 2
Genre: Dark Romance
POV: Dual
Rating: 5⭐️
Spice: 5🌶️
Darkness: 5🩶

Highlights:
🖤Ex-Military Dom MMC
🖤Bratty Submissive Heroine
🖤Morally Grey Hero
🖤BD$M
🖤Found Family/Band of Brothers
🖤Forced Proximity
🖤PTSD/Mental Health Rep
🖤Touch Her and D!e
🖤He Falls First
🖤Mafia Crime

Thoughts:
Such a gut wrenching and visceral novel where k!nk was used to push back the strong emotions our heroine was feeling. The spice in this story was steamy and spectacular. I especially liked the intricacies of the scenes they did together- you could really feel their passion. Carrick was compelling and almost mesmerizing in his dominance. Together they were exploring some serious k!nk and the strong connection it built. More than that, I loved the intimacy in their quiet moments of aftercare. Elle had a way of expressing emotion in the writing, I could feel their passion, and the frustration and devastation of Bellamy while she was in protection. This book was a wild ride and I can’t wait for the rest of the series.

🛑Please read all the author warnings as themes and events depicted in this book could be triggering. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[ltfrom bc · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! Just…….Wow!

This book was not at all what I expected. For me, I went into this book based on the description, but that is not what I got. To me, the preamble was secondary. I found this book to be more of a story about the VERY deep connection these two make right from the start. None of the flirting, heats and roses type of connection. Carrick quickly understands who Bellamy is and she quickly trusts him with her fears, her anger, her despair. I have not read a book like this that delves so deeply into the emotional connection these two have and it was so refreshing to read. It is hard to explain in words. It was not an attraction connection but rather a very profound emotional connection. And as I said, the basic premise of the story line became secondary to me. Don’t get me wrong, it was a great story line but it was all about the connection between these two.

I have read other series by this author, and I have loved every one of them. I know that there are more books to come in this series, but this book left me wondering if the author could deliver another book as profound as this. It was beyond anything I have read in the past. I just loved their story and wish I could give it more that 5 stars!

[Heather · Rating 4 out of 5]

Whew. Buckle up, because this one is not for the faint of heart—and I ate it up.

Let’s start with the obvious: you cannot read this as a standalone. You need the context, the found family, the twisted web of the Dom Krovi world. But once you’re in? You’re in. And trust me, it’s worth it.

Bellamy is everything. She’s tough and mouthy but also vulnerable in a way that cracked me open. Watching her push back and still choose submission on her own terms? Chef’s kiss. The emotional layering was so well done—submission not just for kink, but for safety, for trust, for healing. I wasn’t ready.

And then there’s him. The dom. The protector. The monster. Y’all... he’s the kind of morally gray I love—scary to everyone else, soft for one woman. The “touch her and die” energy was off the charts, but it’s the quiet care that got me. The kind of tenderness that follows the storm. The kind that makes you swoon and cry.

The spice? 🔥🔥🔥 We are not easing into anything here. Impact play, electroplay, edging, breathplay—it’s kinky, it’s intense, it’s consensual, and it's beautifully written. But what really sold me was the aftercare. The softness. The space held between scenes. That’s where this book really shined.

[Samantha Morgan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Do you know how sometimes you watch a movie or TV show and it’s so intense and done so well that you actually forget it’s actors? They aren’t real people, it’s all written and planned out before hand but you can’t stop yourself from cheering them on or wishing them harm. Sometimes we dream about them because the characters mean so much to us.

Y’all, that’s exactly what is happening in Carrick! I’m dying! I can’t sleep without thinking about these amazing characters and then I dream about them. Ms Sparrpw has created such an amazing, raw, real world that it could be a movie. It would be rated X tho…#iykyk

My kindle burst into flames so bad I had to get a new one. Good lord, the alone time I needed with this book is unreal. It’s a one handed read for sure… but then the tears… god this book is everything.

So grab your blanket cause it’s filthy in all the best ways. Your gonna wanna do things under it but it’s got so many feels that your gonna wanna cuddle it too.

This book broke me so hard and slowly put me back together in the most delicious way. I highly recommend it cause we need to girl talk like ASAP

[Kirsty · Rating 5 out of 5]

Carrick doesn’t do attachments, doesn’t follow rules, and definitely doesn’t fall for the women he’s supposed to protect. But Bellamy Barrett isn’t just some job—she’s loud, stubborn, impossible to ignore, and somehow manages to get under his skin from the second she opens her smart mouth.

What starts off as a simple protection gig turns into a full-blown obsession. Carrick fights it, he really does—but the tension between them is thick enough to cut with a knife. Bellamy’s got fire, and Carrick’s got demons, and the two of them together? Explosive.

This book is raw, gritty, and full of heat. The plot has that perfect mix of danger, intensity, and slow-burn chaos that you can’t look away from. The crime syndicate angle adds a serious edge, but it’s the connection between Carrick and Bellamy that makes it impossible to stop reading. She challenges him, calls him on his bullshit, and makes him feel—something he definitely wasn’t planning on doing.

Carrick says he doesn’t do complicated—but Bellamy is the kind of complicated that makes him want to break all his rules. And if anyone tries to take her away? He’ll show them exactly how dangerous he really is.

[Jae · Rating 4 out of 5]

Carrick pulled me in right away with its emotional depth and layered storytelling. Elle Sparrow has a way of painting characters so vividly that you feel like you’re living their struggles alongside them. The pacing kept me hooked, and the setting had a raw, almost haunting beauty.

That being said, Bellamy really stood out to me—but not in the best way. To me, she came across as extremely selfish. Her choices often felt like they were driven by her own desires without much thought for how they affected others. While this made her frustrating, it also made her feel real—flawed in a way that sparked strong reactions. I found myself torn between wanting to understand her and being irritated at the damage she caused.

Carrick’s arc, on the other hand, had me rooting for him, and I appreciated the complexity Sparrow gave to his journey. The push and pull between the characters made the story compelling, even when I didn’t always like what was happening.

Overall, it’s a powerful read that left me thinking about the characters long after I turned the last page. Sparrow doesn’t give you easy answers or perfect people, and that’s exactly what makes this book worth picking up.

[Crystal D · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! This book did a number on me. Read your triggers of course. I knew going into the book what was probably going to happen at some point yet I was still snotting and ugly crying at 1:30 in the morning. The raw emotion that Bellamy has in the book is depicted amazingly. Even Carrick(who’s my new fav of the group) you see them struggle with their feelings for eachother both knowing there’s only 1 outcome at the end of things. But that freaks them out!

This book is heavy on BDSM and the relationship and trust that’s shared between a dom & sub. It focuses more on the emotional release that can be achieved. Don’t fret there is plenty of smexy stuff throughout still.

In a nutshell Bellamy is placed in protective custody while her brother is off mingling with the mafia and has gotten himself in debt with them. Throughout she’s unaware if he’s alive or where he’s at which is a huge struggle for her. The group including Maddy try to make her comfortable and seen but Bell doesn’t always make it easy. She feels trapped and more like an asset or assignment.

[Shere · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have read Elle Sparrow’s books before but none have been quite like this.

The emotional depth and pull between the MC’s. Carrick’s temperament, how he is and can read Bellamy’s wants and needs. It’s astounding.

I was in awe of how they’re able to communicate so effectively without words and just with body language. Bellamy is able to just let go so wholeheartedly and trust that Carrick will give her exactly what she needs.

This is all before adding in the BDSM aspect of their relationship. Which is wow. Elle describes it with such reverence and worship.

To say this book has blown me out of the water is an understatement. I will be thinking about this one for days, weeks, months to come.

PS I need a Sully book and a Jax book. Thank you.


Favourite quotes-

“I’ve spanked girls for less sass than you’re giving me.” Bellamy snorted. “Is that supposed to scare me?”

“This girl didn’t want mercy. She wanted to burn. And I was going to make her glow.”

“Carrick held me together without needing to fix me. Just by being there.”

[Carrie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Carrick is everything you want in a book boyfriend!! He’s got enough of an edge to him to have the bad-boy lure, but his moral compass is pointing north. He definitely fulfills the “who did this to you” vibe. Then to see how he interacts with Bell, the care, the way he sees her and what she needs. Love that he was so emotionally available!

Bellamy is so relatable. She wants to be tough and independent and not rely on anyone because that’s who life created her to be. But she can’t help but feel crushed by circumstances. I love her resolve not to fall apart, but I love the broken moments when she falls apart and brings the raw, devastation and grief out. It is ok to be a fierce woman and break.

The storyline is so gripping! I had to know what happened next. Of course you root for the hero and pray for the villain to be taken down.

Overall, a super solid read! Currently looking for my Carrick while waiting for Jax’s story!

[Phyllis Wolford · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a great second book. The characters are all like a well oiled machine that works very well together and they play off each others strengths. Carsick and Bellamy start out slow and almost hate each other, but soon are drawn to the other and find out that they both enjoy the same stress release as the other. They slowly work up to feeling safe and comfortable and are soon enjoying the feel of family and the bond they have. When crap hits the fan, the whole crew works and plans to help Bellemy’s brother, but that goes FUBAr, and feelings are put on hold as they work to find the solution to taking out the cause of her hurt and anger. When everything falls apart and her brother is un-alived, thats when Carrick and Bellamy finally tell the other that they love each other and will be ther for each other no matter what. Bellamy lost her bio brother, but was claimed by the crew as her new family.

[Amanda · Rating 4 out of 5]

Carrick, the second installment of the Kansas City Reapers series was a deliciously steamy read. Elle Sparrow did a wonderful job with her storyline, plot and characters.
The MFC, Bellamy, was a new introduction to the crew if you didn't read the first book. I found myself not liking her as much because she was more whiney and unappreciative than I would've expected her to be after the team put her under protection. But her character flaw didn't take anything away from the story.
The MMC, Carrick, was attentive, supportive, hot as sin and delicious.
The whole team of characters really do play a role in each book and make it more enjoyable. Having said that, this book could completely be read as a stand alone. However, theyre both so good, why would you want to miss out?

10/10 would recommend.

[Teagan Braland · Rating 5 out of 5]

Please check trigger warnings before reading! Buckle up! Carrick takes you for the ride of your life! Emotions, deeper dive into BDSM and how for some (like Bellemy) it can help relieve anxieties and help with mental health.

Bellamy is in need of a safe place to stay. As she bottles everything inside and she needs an outlet when it gets too much. When she moves into the safe house and meets Carrick, she realizes things aren't going to be the same. Carrick helps her feel again and grounds her. What neither realize is, this isn't going to be easy nor simple. Carrick makes her feel things she never let herself feel before.

While this book can be read as a stand alone, to get a better grasp on the characters and more of the story line, reading book one is helpful. This book had me on the edge of my seat the entire time and I cannot wait for the next book!

[Mandy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Please read all the author warnings as themes and events depicted in this book could be triggering.

Contains:
Ex-Military Dom MMC
Bratty Submissive Heroine
Morally Grey Hero
BD$M
Found Family/Band of Brothers
Forced Proximity
PTSD/Mental Health Rep
Touch Her and D!e
He Falls First
Mafia Crime

The spice in this story was steamy and spectacular. I really liked the intricacies of the scenes they did together- you could really feel their passion. Carrick was compelling and almost mesmerizing in his dominance. Together they were exploring some serious kink and the strong connection it built. More than that, I loved the intimacy in their quiet moments of aftercare. You could really feel their emotions from Bellamy’s frustration to the love they had for each other and their “family”