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Reaper & The Lioness: Lone Star Mavericks MC, Book 1

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On the road to retribution, sometimes you have to cross the line.

When PR powerhouse Eva Harland walks away from her high-profile career in D.C., the last place she expects to land is the Lone Star Mavericks Motorcycle Club. Her mission is clean up the club’s image after a town-wide boycott threatens to destroy their livelihoods.

But nothing about the Mavericks is simple—especially not their brooding VP, Reaper.

Cold. Loyal. Lethal. Reaper doesn’t want help, and he sure as hell doesn’t want Eva digging around where she doesn’t belong. But her sharp mind and fearless mouth quickly get under his skin, and when danger from her past resurfaces, he’s the only one who can keep her safe.

Forced into close quarters and surrounded by secrets, the line between business and desire begins to blur.

Because Eva isn’t just here to spin a story.
She’s chasing the truth.
And someone will do anything to keep it buried.

Reaper & The Lioness is a motorcycle club romance for readers who love morally gray outlaws and the heroines who bring them to their knees. This book is the first in a standalone interconnected series in the gritty, unforgettable world of the Lone Star Mavericks MC. 

252 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 20, 2025

20 people are currently reading
69 people want to read

About the author

Rachel Esterline

3 books9 followers

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5 stars
38 (60%)
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19 (30%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
Profile Image for Stephanie Keijzer.
124 reviews24 followers
November 7, 2025
I always love a good MC romance. I don't know what it is with those men🥵🥵🤭 The book was the first book in a interconnected series. This one was about Eva and Reaper. Reaper the grumpy VP of the Mavericks. And Eva a badass FMC who moves to Houston to start over. She becomes the PR girl for the MC to have there image changed.

The story was fast paced and I liked the writing style of the auhtor. There was a good mix between action, romance and some spice. Highly recommend if you are into MC romances!
Profile Image for Kris VanWinkle.
16 reviews
July 29, 2025
This was a great mix of suspense, thrill, and tension (sexual of course). The story had me wanting more after each chapter, bouncing between Eva and Reaper made it very easy to keep reading.

Two things that really stand out for me: 1) life is unexpected. Things happen in mysterious ways - so just let life take its course… maybe I read between the lines a bit too much, but I was able to connect my own experiences with these characters. 2) From my own traumas, this line in the book stood out to me the most, and it really hit me as the biggest truth bomb I’ve ever read, "Because the true monsters are usually the ones you least expect. They hide behind smiles, handshakes, and bibles, not leather and patches."

I really look forward to the next 3 books in this serious. Rachel did a great job!
2 reviews
September 25, 2025
couldn’t put the book down!

I absolutely loved this book. The fierceness of the heroine alone had me but then add to it this grumpy , rough, manly biker with a soft side towards her! The plot twist! Literally read in one day. Can’t wait for book 2
Profile Image for Rachael Manes.
16 reviews
August 13, 2025
Strong FMC
Morally gray/Alpha MMC
Forced proximity


Let me start by saying I was blessed enough to receive an ARC copy of the book.

I have read a lot of books like this, but the FMC has always been whiny or too indecisive for me. Eva’s character shocked me with how witty, charismatic, strong, and intelligent she is. She doesn’t back down from a challenge and she is able to hold her own. She is also not afraid to protect herself under any circumstances. She’s the strongest FMC in a romance novel I have read.

The chemistry she had with the MMC right off the bat was impressive. I didn’t have to read half the book before the chemistry got going between them. They were flirty and sensual. It was the most realistic way of spice and chemistry.

In comes Reaper. He’s morally gray, very much an Alpha, knows his place. He’s very protective but not in a possessive sort of way, but in your every day I need to keep her safe way.

They are forced into living together temporarily when something happens, where they banter and that’s when the starts spice kicks in. It was a great balance of spice with the story line.

The whole plot and storyline was absolutely well written and well thought out. In my opinion as far as spice, it’s maybe 1 or 2 chile peppers of spice. But the chemistry and romance of the plot and storyline was beautifully written. I loved this book and plan to read it again eventually.
81 reviews1 follower
August 11, 2025
This was my first time reading something by Rachel Esterline - and I consider myself lucky to have received an ARC copy of this book.

Eva, our FMC, has just moved to Texas to start over after a traumatic event at her last job. A friend of hers introduces her to the Mavericks - a motorcycle club filled with guys who help support their community, but also have some less than legal side things going on as well - and her job is to help turn around the image that they have in their town thanks to a vindictive woman trying to boycott the businesses that the club supports. Eva is a strong, independent woman who is bound and determined to prove herself in every way possible.

Enter Reaper.

Reaper is used to being in charge, having women act a certain way around him, and just overall he's used to a certain reaction to what he says or does. So when Eva doesn't do what he thinks she will, basically ever, he's baffled and quickly enraptured by her. Well, he says he's frustrated and annoyed, but we know the truth.

There are multiple conflicts going on in this book, but I feel like the author gave each one it's proper pacing and wrapped things up nicely by the end of the book. Overall, a very fun and spicy read for me!
Profile Image for Felicia Shaffer.
1 review
August 16, 2025
If Sons of Anarchy and Scandal had a steamy, secret lovechild raised on adrenaline and attitude, it would be Reaper & The Lioness. Rachel Esterline’s debut roars onto the scene with a heroine who doesn’t just walk into the lion’s den—she rebrands it.

Eva Harland, a PR powerhouse with stilettos sharper than most men’s knives, trades D.C. politics for the dusty drama of the Lone Star Mavericks Motorcycle Club. Her job? Save their image. Her challenge? Reaper—the club’s brooding VP who’s colder than a corpse and twice as dangerous. He doesn’t want her help, but he sure as hell can’t ignore her mouth (professionally or otherwise).

This book is a delicious cocktail of grit, heat, and high-stakes secrets. Esterline doesn’t shy away from morally gray men or women who bite back. The chemistry between Eva and Reaper is combustible, and the plot twists are just dirty enough to keep you hooked without needing a shower.

If you like your romance dark, your heroines sharp, and your heroes one bad decision away from redemption, Reaper & The Lioness is your next obsession. Bonus points for the Texas setting, which adds just the right amount of dust, danger, and drawl.
Profile Image for Ruby Ellis.
Author 9 books5 followers
October 14, 2025
Reaper & The Lioness–A Gripping, Fast-Paced MC Romance You Won’t Be Able to Put Down

If you're a fan of motorcycle club romance with just the right mix of danger, sizzling chemistry, and emotional depth, Reaper & The Lioness is a must-read. This fast-paced MC romance delivers everything you crave in a gritty love story while weaving in a surprisingly heartfelt and believable connection between two strong, compelling leads.

The story moves fast—I flew through the pages—and yet, the relationship between Reaper and Eva still felt authentic. Their banter is witty and sharp, providing moments of levity amid the suspense and danger. It’s a perfect blend of tension and explosive chemistry that keeps you rooting for them from page one.

This book hooks you early and doesn’t let go. From tough bikers and bullets to stolen kisses and late-night confessions, Reaper & The Lioness keeps the adrenaline pumping and the heart racing. The pacing is tight, the stakes are high, and the romance is absolutely swoon-worthy.
Profile Image for Jaimie.
88 reviews
November 8, 2025
If you're looking for a fast-paced action-packed MC romance with a morally grey MMC and a strong FMC, then this book is for you! This is the first book in the series, and I can't wait for the next one.

Reaper & The Lioness follows the story of an outlaw motorcycle club VP (Reaper) and the PR consultant (Eva) that he was not happy that the club hired. I always love a good MC story, and it's even better that has a strong, badass, FMC.

Eva is an absolute badass, both in the corporate world and outside of it. Her backstory is surprising and a bit heartbreaking and not what I had expected but definitely makes her into who she is. Reaper is a former marine, morally grey, a fierce protector, and a force to be reckoned with. The connection between the two of them is instant, but it is written so well and makes the relationship between the two of them seem so authentic.

The story moves fast, but it doesn't seem rushed. There's great banter, moments of danger, some good suspense, and some great chemistry with the perfect amount of spice.

I highly recommend you add this one to your reading list!
Profile Image for Kim living life reading books.
124 reviews8 followers
November 14, 2025
This was my first motorcycle romance book and won’t be my last that is for sure! This had everything, fierce, strong, resilient FMC (Eva) a tall, strong, passionate MMC ( Reaper) and a cute foster dog named Hawk!

This book was well paced and had a good mixture of suspense, tension, spice, revenge, and I absolutely love the found family!

As you go along and learn about Eva, and her story, she has trust issues and definitely feminine rage, rightfully so. The ending surprised me but was awesome.

After meeting the author and hearing how she fosters dogs, I loved that she is adding that piece into her books. That makes Hawk even more special.

Reaper, well we all need a Reaper in our lives, and he cooks too, definitely green flag!

“The best MMC’s are a Red flag on the streets and a green flag in the sheets!” Rachel Esterline
Profile Image for Rebecca Gulley.
Author 4 books26 followers
December 19, 2025
This was so good. If you’re looking for a book that will give you Sons of Anarchy vibes then be sure to check out Eva and Reaper’s story.

Eva is fierce and she’s the perfect match for Reaper. When she gets hired on to do PR work for the Mavericks Reaper thinks it’s a terrible idea. But as the two interact, he falls hard and fast for his lionesses. The tension between the two is phenomenal and there are some definitely some moments where I laughed, said oh my gosh and even tear up.
And don’t get me started on the spice between these two. It is 🥵🥵🥵. And I would definitely be okay with losing that bet too.
And Hawk, love that he finally finds his permanent home and who he gets to stay with. That moment was a chef’s kiss.
Definitely recommend reading this and can’t wait to start the next book in this series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Michelle Davis.
43 reviews1 follower
August 4, 2025
This book is fantastic.
It’s got so many hints of romance, suspense, danger, darkness, revenge. I love a good outlaw motorcycle club!!
The FMC is an absolute force to be reckoned with, and the MMC is such a dangerous man, but a complete golden retriever for her.
The plot was absolutely perfect in this too. It always kept you on your toes where you needed to keep reading wondering what’s happening next.
I love how after most books kind of finish after the suspense, this one kept going and really gave you such good closure for the couple.
As someone who personally has a rescue German shepherd/malinois mix, Hawk really is just to flipping cute to handle!!
I need more!! 😍
Profile Image for Heather H.
522 reviews14 followers
October 26, 2025
Protective but non-toxic MMC- ✔️
FMC who can hold her own but also accepts help- ✔️
MC’s 30+ who act their age- ✔️
Serving justice when the law fails- ✔️
Emotional maturity + growth- ✔️
Adorable foster puppy- ✔️
Heartwarming HEA + epilogue- ✔️
Realistic, spicy romance plot- ✔️
Well-developed suspense plot- ✔️
Well-executed set-up for book two- ✔️

Look. I LOVE discovering new indie authors, but it will send me into a slump like no other when I can’t immediately grab another one of their works to dive into.

I will 1000% be continuing this series.
I cannot wait to learn what happens for the next characters.


2 reviews
October 24, 2025
This was my first-ever motorcycle romance read and wow, it did not disappoint! I fell head over heels for this world (and maybe for Reaper too 🫢). Rachael absolutely nailed every detail, balancing heart-pounding suspense with just the right amount of heat. And Eva, our fierce “lioness”? Total badass with the looks and attitude to match. I devoured this book in one sitting because I simply couldn’t put it down. By the end, I was torn between being sad it was over and thrilled knowing it’s only the beginning of the series. Easily a five-star read for me! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Profile Image for Brandy B.
34 reviews2 followers
November 9, 2025
This was my first book by Rachel Esterline, and it did not disappoint.I couldn’t put it down! Eva, the fierce and fiery heroine, doesn’t need anyone to save her… or so she thinks. Then she meets Reaper, the morally grey bad boy VP of a motorcycle club, and their chemistry is off the charts. They truly balance each other perfectly. There’s no slow burn here,it’s pure fire from start to finish! With forced proximity, found family, and even a puppy as one of the main characters, this book has it all. I can’t wait for book two!
Profile Image for Angie.
137 reviews4 followers
November 12, 2025
This was a fantastic MC romance! I love the world and cast of characters that Rachel Esterline created and I cannot wait for future books in this series. The tension between Reaper and Eva was instant and I love that Eva was a heroine who could hold her own. Reaper is a morally grey MMC in the best way, and I love how he was protective of Eva without smothering her. The found family aspect of this book was also great - I loved how the members of the club rallied around Eva and Reaper when they needed help, no questions asked. Definitely pick this book up if you are a fan of MC romances.
Profile Image for Andrea.
4 reviews
July 26, 2025
Gripping, steamy, and packed with grit — Reaper & The Lioness hooked me from page one.

Eva is fierce and determined, and Reaper is that perfect mix of brooding and protective. Their connection crackles with heat and something deeper — something that lingers long after the final page.

This was my first MC romance, and it absolutely delivered. If you love strong heroines, morally gray men with good hearts, and a plot that keeps you turning pages, this one’s a must-read.
Profile Image for Jasmine Queen.
297 reviews
August 3, 2025
Wow! What a book! I loved it so much, I legit couldn't put it down.
Eva has escaped a nasty man, who is protected by Daddy's money, moves closer to her friend, who happends to be married to the president of a bike crew, who happens to need a PR to help show they are more than a bike gang.
Reaper, the Vice president has been asked to keep and eye on Eva, which he agres to reluctantly.
We go on a journey in this book.
I cant wait wait for book two.
Profile Image for Heather Wejroch.
10 reviews
October 27, 2025
This is an exciting, suspenseful MC romance that grabbed me from the very first page and didn’t let go. The storyline is packed with suspense and heart, the banter is top-notch, and Eva has officially become my new favorite FMC. I can’t give away why… but damn, she’s absolutely fearless. Rachel Esterline delivers a perfect blend of grit, heat, and emotion, and I can’t wait to dive into the next book in this thrilling new series.
Profile Image for Leah Barkoff.
15 reviews3 followers
November 3, 2025
I picked up this book because I saw the author on TT and because I love a good MC book. I like when the FMC is strong and independent and Eva proved herself to be a badass willing to cross some lines.
Reaper, cold, lethal and full of mistrust, yet loyal to those he cares about and doesn’t want anyone especially Eva, to find out their secrets. Other than a couple time line issues, I truly enjoyed this book. If you like spice, banter, and morally gray characters then grab this one.
2 reviews
January 14, 2026
This is an enjoyable read with bold characters and a unique plot. A motorcycle gang that needs to hire a PR expert! It has adventure, intrigue, sexy scenes, and suprising character development. If you like Lucy Score's series which starts with book one, Things We Never Got Over, you will really enjoy this book and series. It also has a supporting character, a puppy named Hawk. The author has a passion for dog rescue and fostering, so if you love dogs, you will love Hawk!
Profile Image for SmuttyEverAfter.
449 reviews
August 19, 2025
ARC review:

It had the bones to be really great but fell flat for me. The plot was interesting enough to see how the story played out. It was hard for me to connect with the FMC. Some of the banter and interactions between Eva and Reaper felt forced. Overall the book was fine and would be good for a reader that is wanting to dip their toe into MC/dark romance.
Profile Image for Tasha Miller.
53 reviews
October 6, 2025
Loved this book!

Oh what an amazing story… independent, strong, intelligent, hilarious FMC and a broody Marine MC MMC who matches her perfectly! Great plot loved this entire book and read it in about 4 hours total! CANNOT WAIT FOR BOOK 2
26 reviews
October 11, 2025
Amazing. Just amazing. Would’ve read it in one sitting if it wasn’t for responsibilities. Eva is the strong heroine I needed her to be and I love that Reaper considers that where possible. And that they communicate.
Profile Image for Sarah Mason.
Author 3 books14 followers
October 25, 2025
You can't go wrong with a possessive MMC and a super bada** FMC! Together the two of them are an absolute powerhouse. Rachel is definitely an indie author to look out for. Her talent shows in every word she writes! Looking forward to the rest of the books she's got planned!
Profile Image for Jo MA.
127 reviews
November 12, 2025
This is a definite add to you TBR! This was the first book that I’ve read by Rachel Esterline, it will not be the last.

If you like a MC trope, you are going to love this series! This is topped off with a strong FMC that can handle her own! One of the best MC books I’ve read!
Profile Image for A Brew Story.
154 reviews33 followers
November 17, 2025
I have been on a roll with good books

Rachel is so well spoken and this book is so well written. I really loved the fmcs ability to hold her own and be her own hero. I also love that she was able to bring that grump to his knees. Such a great story!
Profile Image for Misty Wilson.
46 reviews
December 1, 2025
Read this one after reading book 2 because I just had to know Eva and Reapers story, and I was not disappointed at all. Loved the store from the first word to the last. Absolutely in love with this series and cannot wait to read more.
Profile Image for Havok.
96 reviews
December 20, 2025
Absolutely OBSESSED!!!

I love MC Romances and this book did not disappoint!! Stumbled upon this book on Tiktok and immediately had to download! I finished in a day I couldnt put down this book, and now I am running for the second!!!
Profile Image for Olivia Clendenan.
4 reviews
October 20, 2025
Super excited to continue the Maverick journey! This was a great starter to the series and i can’t wait to hear Kenna’s story next!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews

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