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Downrange #2
Fallen Hero
Former Navy SEAL Mason Hughes locked his heart away years ago after devastating betrayal. Now his iron control serves him well on dangerous missions…until a high-stakes operation in Dubai brings him face-to-face with the enigmatic Calista Ventura.
Calista is on a mission for vengeance, and the last thing she needs is the tempting distraction of the infuriating yet irresistible Mason. But when their missions become dangerously entangled, she finds herself relying on his lethal skills to stay alive.
As they work to expose an international trafficking ring, the heat between them becomes impossible to deny. Mason’s protective instincts war with Calista’s need to handle things alone. But in a world of deadly secrets and powerful enemies, trusting the wrong person could be fatal.
When Calista’s past catches up with them both, they’ll have to decide if the chance at love is worth risking everything they’ve fought to protect.
Calista is on a mission for vengeance, and the last thing she needs is the tempting distraction of the infuriating yet irresistible Mason. But when their missions become dangerously entangled, she finds herself relying on his lethal skills to stay alive.
As they work to expose an international trafficking ring, the heat between them becomes impossible to deny. Mason’s protective instincts war with Calista’s need to handle things alone. But in a world of deadly secrets and powerful enemies, trusting the wrong person could be fatal.
When Calista’s past catches up with them both, they’ll have to decide if the chance at love is worth risking everything they’ve fought to protect.
268 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 24, 2026
290 people are currently reading
3270 people want to read
About the author
Riley Edwards
87 books2,732 followersRiley Edwards is a Wall Street Journal and USA Today Bestselling author, wife, and military mom. Riley was born and raised in Los Angeles but now resides on the east coast with her fantastic husband and children.
Riley writes heart-stopping romance with sexy alpha heroes and even stronger heroines. Riley's favorite genres to write are romantic suspense and military romance.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 150 reviews
December 7, 2025
I’m totally down with this new series. I love how each guy is getting paired up with women who are just as kick ass as they are.
Mason and Calista, both, have trouble with trust but their attraction was instant and you could see how despite their pasts, they wanted to trust each other. I love how protective Mason is even when Calista can take care of herself.
The whole gang is fun and I can’t wait to get the rest of the guys books.
Mason and Calista, both, have trouble with trust but their attraction was instant and you could see how despite their pasts, they wanted to trust each other. I love how protective Mason is even when Calista can take care of herself.
The whole gang is fun and I can’t wait to get the rest of the guys books.
March 26, 2026
This one was just ok for me. I never really warmed up to Calista or Mason. I think it was because the two of them had so many walls, which was understandable when you realized why. I did like how the team flipped them shit for stupid things. Atlanta intrigued me, wished there would have been more with her. The ending felt kinda anticlimactic, even as I was glad that all the bad things were now out of Calista's life.
March 26, 2026
I really enjoyed book one in this series, so I knew I had to jump on the opportunity when I saw the second book was out!
Here we meet a new fmc and mmc. Calista and Mason. I love the closeness the team has, the trust, and how they support each other, but at the same time really call each other out on their bullshit. But this book has something deeper.
The character growth from who they are in the beginning to who they are at the end is huge. They carry their own trauma from the past, but find a way to work through it with building a relationship of trust. Even when they don't acknowledge it's presence. The level of trust that is needed, also to have each other's back in a life or de@th situation means everything.
Another thing that I really noticed is how the body itself is the key. I don't want to spoil anything, not by mentioning any trope here either, but let me tell you. How their bodies are used as a symbol for the psychological things they're going through is a big part of their development. The spice is good, but the way the emotions is part of it, together with trauma and how it's expressed through their bodies, I really loved.
Some favorite quotes:
"I don't give anyone my trust. They can't break what they don't have."
"But just because I don't want a certain behavior in my life doesn't mean it's wrong. It just means it's not right for me."
"You're allowed to be happy, Callie. You're allowed to stop. You're allowed to put yourself first, and it doesn't erase the good you've done."
"We warped the truth and made it subjective. We hijacked words, changed the meanings to fit the narrative. We called women and men and fucking children being kidn@pped and sold human tr@ff!cking, exploitation, instead of calling it what it was - seggsual sl@very. Because it was less offensive to hear."
I really enjoyed reading this book and I'm excited to read book three later on!
Thank you for the arc, this is my honest review.
Here we meet a new fmc and mmc. Calista and Mason. I love the closeness the team has, the trust, and how they support each other, but at the same time really call each other out on their bullshit. But this book has something deeper.
The character growth from who they are in the beginning to who they are at the end is huge. They carry their own trauma from the past, but find a way to work through it with building a relationship of trust. Even when they don't acknowledge it's presence. The level of trust that is needed, also to have each other's back in a life or de@th situation means everything.
Another thing that I really noticed is how the body itself is the key. I don't want to spoil anything, not by mentioning any trope here either, but let me tell you. How their bodies are used as a symbol for the psychological things they're going through is a big part of their development. The spice is good, but the way the emotions is part of it, together with trauma and how it's expressed through their bodies, I really loved.
Some favorite quotes:
"I don't give anyone my trust. They can't break what they don't have."
"But just because I don't want a certain behavior in my life doesn't mean it's wrong. It just means it's not right for me."
"You're allowed to be happy, Callie. You're allowed to stop. You're allowed to put yourself first, and it doesn't erase the good you've done."
"We warped the truth and made it subjective. We hijacked words, changed the meanings to fit the narrative. We called women and men and fucking children being kidn@pped and sold human tr@ff!cking, exploitation, instead of calling it what it was - seggsual sl@very. Because it was less offensive to hear."
I really enjoyed reading this book and I'm excited to read book three later on!
Thank you for the arc, this is my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
4.5 ⭐️
4 🌶
Ok, so I think I might have loved this one more than Fixed Asset! Mason and Calista are made for each other- they are both headstrong, confident, and dangerous AF. I love how we were introduced to Mason in book 1, and we see how Calista breaks through all of his barriers in this book. And Calista! yesssss! After we met her in Fixed Asset I just Knew she needed her own book.
Ok, so you need to have read Fixed Asset first to Under who these characters are, and the story that happened immediately prior which introduced Calista. This is told in alternating first person chapters.
What I appreciate so much with Riley Edwards is the not-slow burn. I like my romances spicy (sometimes I enjoy 300 pages of slow burn angst and yearning, but not often). And Riley is great at shorter chapters, immediate spice, and witty banter. If you enjoy knowing your characters are going to be internally feral for each other until they give in, then this is perfect for you.
This also deals with some heavy topics, so make sure you read the TW. Calista has been through so much which is why she is so closed-off and distrustful of others. Mason makes some mistakes which affects her trust, but viewed through the lense of his attempts to keep her safe, those mistakes are understandable.
Now I just want to know who we get for the next book!
4 🌶
Ok, so I think I might have loved this one more than Fixed Asset! Mason and Calista are made for each other- they are both headstrong, confident, and dangerous AF. I love how we were introduced to Mason in book 1, and we see how Calista breaks through all of his barriers in this book. And Calista! yesssss! After we met her in Fixed Asset I just Knew she needed her own book.
Ok, so you need to have read Fixed Asset first to Under who these characters are, and the story that happened immediately prior which introduced Calista. This is told in alternating first person chapters.
What I appreciate so much with Riley Edwards is the not-slow burn. I like my romances spicy (sometimes I enjoy 300 pages of slow burn angst and yearning, but not often). And Riley is great at shorter chapters, immediate spice, and witty banter. If you enjoy knowing your characters are going to be internally feral for each other until they give in, then this is perfect for you.
This also deals with some heavy topics, so make sure you read the TW. Calista has been through so much which is why she is so closed-off and distrustful of others. Mason makes some mistakes which affects her trust, but viewed through the lense of his attempts to keep her safe, those mistakes are understandable.
Now I just want to know who we get for the next book!
November 22, 2025
Fallen Hero❤️🩹
Fallen Hero is the next book in the Downrange series and gives us Mason and Calista’s story🙌 This story deals with heartbreaking realities but also how these realities shaped both Mason and Calista’s lives…to the point they both cut themselves off from others to ensure they don’t experience the pain of losing loved ones💔
Such a great storyline and getting to know both characters better…loved Calista’s sassy snark and the back and forth between her and Mason initially…felt like foreplay🤪 Can’t wait for the next book and getting to know the other guys on the team better❣️ I received an advanced copy via Netgalley and thank the publisher and author for a chance to read. I leave my review voluntarily😍
Fallen Hero is the next book in the Downrange series and gives us Mason and Calista’s story🙌 This story deals with heartbreaking realities but also how these realities shaped both Mason and Calista’s lives…to the point they both cut themselves off from others to ensure they don’t experience the pain of losing loved ones💔
Such a great storyline and getting to know both characters better…loved Calista’s sassy snark and the back and forth between her and Mason initially…felt like foreplay🤪 Can’t wait for the next book and getting to know the other guys on the team better❣️ I received an advanced copy via Netgalley and thank the publisher and author for a chance to read. I leave my review voluntarily😍
March 21, 2026
3.5⭐️
Thank you netgalley for an e-arc of this book.
I went into this not having read book one and I would highly suggest you read book one before this one. At first I was very confused but once the story got going I was intrigued. I loved the fast paced writing and how the characters’ relationship developed. I also loved seeing an older FMC (age 40). Overall a good read.
Thank you netgalley for an e-arc of this book.
I went into this not having read book one and I would highly suggest you read book one before this one. At first I was very confused but once the story got going I was intrigued. I loved the fast paced writing and how the characters’ relationship developed. I also loved seeing an older FMC (age 40). Overall a good read.
October 28, 2025
I don’t care for this author’s writing style. It’s a little light on plot while heavy on (repetitive) character monologues. Others might enjoy it, but I found myself bored and ready to move on.
Thank you to Montlake for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley.
Thank you to Montlake for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley.
November 14, 2025
This book was very frustrating. It starts in the middle of something which I guess I would have needed to read book one to know what was going on. It's told in alternating first person chapters telling Calista's viewpoint and Mason's as well, except for the last chapter which was clearly the first person viewpoint of someone else (I'm guessing Pete? And possibly this is the jump off for a book 3 but still very jarring and annoying).
Calista is a paid assassin, I guess? She is heading to Dubai on an assignment that will serve as a cover for finally getting revenge on the man who groomed her sister into being trafficked and eventually murdered? An assistant of sorts calls in Mason and his "team" to provide back up to Calista without Calista's knowledge. Of course, they hate each other on site and will naturally end up in bed before the book is over.
I hated Mason too because it found it so cringe and gross that he kept calling her Sweetness before they were even a thing yet. And I hate that excuse that, oh it's just the Southern way - slavery was the Southern way too - just because it's a "Southern" thing doesn't make it ok. She's a grown woman, and a frigging assassin, give her the respect she deserves and at least use her name.
The author doesn't get a pass on Calista either. I get that it's tricky now that book tok and the internet is a thing, that books are boiled down to tropes and triggers, and so you have to come up with even more interesting reasons to keep your main characters apart. In this case, why don't hot, lethal Mase and Cali immediately fall into bed and burn off all that tension? Because Calista is a 40 yr old virgin. Ugh...
They try to give us a plausible reason, that seeing her older sister be used by her boyfriend in such a heinous way, Calista has a terrible view of men, and the fact that all men can suddenly assault even women they claim to love, so why bother. But then if that is the case, why are we supposed to believe that two days of late-night chit chat with Mason is all she needs to invite him into her bed? And if she really felt that men were too dangerous for 40yrs, why is she prancing around in a silk shortie robe with nothing underneath?
I hated Calista keeping track of every time Mason carried her like a baby. I hated that he kept doing it. I hated that he dismissed her wishes and looked into Jason after the dinner where he posed as her bodyguard, thus undermining her work and her safety all because 'Me know Best, Me Man, Me save woman".
Again, I get that this a romance and you have to get them together somehow and the 'hero' has to 'save' the 'girl', but can't it be done without infantilizing the woman in question? It is 2025, she's a badass killer, can't you woo her without babying her? Then there's Calista's cluelessness, ooh I'm not pretty, and he couldn't possibly want to have sex with a virginal virgin like me? Men never like it when you waltz around in a little robe that hangs open exposing your breasts. So much cringe.
Calista is a paid assassin, I guess? She is heading to Dubai on an assignment that will serve as a cover for finally getting revenge on the man who groomed her sister into being trafficked and eventually murdered? An assistant of sorts calls in Mason and his "team" to provide back up to Calista without Calista's knowledge. Of course, they hate each other on site and will naturally end up in bed before the book is over.
I hated Mason too because it found it so cringe and gross that he kept calling her Sweetness before they were even a thing yet. And I hate that excuse that, oh it's just the Southern way - slavery was the Southern way too - just because it's a "Southern" thing doesn't make it ok. She's a grown woman, and a frigging assassin, give her the respect she deserves and at least use her name.
The author doesn't get a pass on Calista either. I get that it's tricky now that book tok and the internet is a thing, that books are boiled down to tropes and triggers, and so you have to come up with even more interesting reasons to keep your main characters apart. In this case, why don't hot, lethal Mase and Cali immediately fall into bed and burn off all that tension? Because Calista is a 40 yr old virgin. Ugh...
They try to give us a plausible reason, that seeing her older sister be used by her boyfriend in such a heinous way, Calista has a terrible view of men, and the fact that all men can suddenly assault even women they claim to love, so why bother. But then if that is the case, why are we supposed to believe that two days of late-night chit chat with Mason is all she needs to invite him into her bed? And if she really felt that men were too dangerous for 40yrs, why is she prancing around in a silk shortie robe with nothing underneath?
I hated Calista keeping track of every time Mason carried her like a baby. I hated that he kept doing it. I hated that he dismissed her wishes and looked into Jason after the dinner where he posed as her bodyguard, thus undermining her work and her safety all because 'Me know Best, Me Man, Me save woman".
Again, I get that this a romance and you have to get them together somehow and the 'hero' has to 'save' the 'girl', but can't it be done without infantilizing the woman in question? It is 2025, she's a badass killer, can't you woo her without babying her? Then there's Calista's cluelessness, ooh I'm not pretty, and he couldn't possibly want to have sex with a virginal virgin like me? Men never like it when you waltz around in a little robe that hangs open exposing your breasts. So much cringe.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
If you’re into romantic suspense with a strong military flavor and sizzling chemistry, Fallen Hero is the kind of book that tries to sneak up on you and steal a few hours of your sleep. Set in a world where danger lurks behind every mission and emotions are as sharp as bullets, this second book in the Downrange series delivers exactly what many fans of the genre crave: an alpha hero with a wounded heart and a heroine you root for like crazy.
The story follows Mason Hughes, a former Navy SEAL who buried his heart deep after a betrayal that still echoes in his thoughts. He’s disciplined, lethal, and used to controlling every situation—except the way Calista Ventura makes him feel. Calista, on the other hand, walks into his life with fire in her eyes and a very personal mission for justice, and the last thing she wants is distraction…
What makes this book addictive isn’t just the pile-on tension of international intrigue, high-stakes missions, and close calls in exotic locales (though the setup does keep you turning pages). It’s also how Mason and Calista’s dynamic evolves as they’re forced to trust each other—not just for survival, but for something deeper and far riskier: their hearts.
💥 What stands out most:
✨ The blend of action and romance that keeps the plot moving fast without losing emotional depth.
✨ Mason’s internal struggle between control and vulnerability, he’s macho in all the right ways, but also deeply human.
✨ Calista’s fierce independence mixed with quiet courage makes her more than just a love interest, she’s a partner in every sense.
Now, full transparency: because the book is a romantic suspense, expectations vary among readers, some love the tension and pacing, others wish there were even more steamy moments or deeper backstories intertwined more quickly. But if you enjoy heroes with trauma, heroines with grit, and stakes that feel real, this book hits the sweet spot.
💗 Final impression: Fallen Hero feels like that late-night read you pick up planning “just one chapter” and then suddenly it’s 2 AM. It delivers heat, heart, and plenty of pace, wrapped up in a story about learning to trust, not just others, but yourself. If you love romance that pulsa de adrenalina y emoción, this one’s definitely worth the adventure.
The story follows Mason Hughes, a former Navy SEAL who buried his heart deep after a betrayal that still echoes in his thoughts. He’s disciplined, lethal, and used to controlling every situation—except the way Calista Ventura makes him feel. Calista, on the other hand, walks into his life with fire in her eyes and a very personal mission for justice, and the last thing she wants is distraction…
What makes this book addictive isn’t just the pile-on tension of international intrigue, high-stakes missions, and close calls in exotic locales (though the setup does keep you turning pages). It’s also how Mason and Calista’s dynamic evolves as they’re forced to trust each other—not just for survival, but for something deeper and far riskier: their hearts.
💥 What stands out most:
✨ The blend of action and romance that keeps the plot moving fast without losing emotional depth.
✨ Mason’s internal struggle between control and vulnerability, he’s macho in all the right ways, but also deeply human.
✨ Calista’s fierce independence mixed with quiet courage makes her more than just a love interest, she’s a partner in every sense.
Now, full transparency: because the book is a romantic suspense, expectations vary among readers, some love the tension and pacing, others wish there were even more steamy moments or deeper backstories intertwined more quickly. But if you enjoy heroes with trauma, heroines with grit, and stakes that feel real, this book hits the sweet spot.
💗 Final impression: Fallen Hero feels like that late-night read you pick up planning “just one chapter” and then suddenly it’s 2 AM. It delivers heat, heart, and plenty of pace, wrapped up in a story about learning to trust, not just others, but yourself. If you love romance that pulsa de adrenalina y emoción, this one’s definitely worth the adventure.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Fallen Hero by Riley Edwards was all about heart stopping plot and action packed scenes but it was also so well balanced with beautiful feels and sizzling hot chemistry. Calista and Mason are pure fire together. They are in a dangerous game, taking down evil and taking massive risks. And such high risk games should not have space for love to grow. But for them, it did. Being in middle of the challenges and life or death situations forced them to be vulnerable and open to each other.
🖤 special op/ secret mission
🖤 bada&& heroine
🖤 alpha hero
🖤 romantic suspense
🖤 thriller like vibes
🖤 he falls first
Calista Ventura wanted to be the one and only one to take down human trafficker Amir in Dubai with her cover as a high class madam. In the process, she wanted to take down the man who kidnapped and sold and abused her sister. But her handler thinks she needs back up. Mason Hughes and his team arrive and she is not pleased. She gets under Mason's skin like no one. Can she be not that reckless to make bad strategic decisions by turning down Mason completely?Can Mason help her while his head is messed up over her?
From outside, you think Calista is this super cool undercover agent who is a skilled ruthless cold hearted assassin too. But the author takes us deep inside her broken heart. The heart that has been surviving on hunger of revenge and took every dark mark gladly to get the world rid of even darker criminals. This mission is her last stop and she is desperate and restless. Mason is like a solid block of reason and caution standing on her reckless way. He is intrigued by her. Their chemistry is a ticking time bomb. But he has to be patient and careful else she will run. Her life is a canvas for tragedies and she didnt think that she can trust a man enough to share her body and heart. But Mason stood by her. He is obviously extreme alpha with extreme protective ways. His instinct tells him to hide Calista from all the danger but he also knew he is her partner. She is brilliant and lethal and stubborn and he just needed to be there with his team. The plot is complex and consists of many puzzle pieces. The twists and turns kept me on my toes.
I reviewed an early copy voluntarily
🖤 special op/ secret mission
🖤 bada&& heroine
🖤 alpha hero
🖤 romantic suspense
🖤 thriller like vibes
🖤 he falls first
Calista Ventura wanted to be the one and only one to take down human trafficker Amir in Dubai with her cover as a high class madam. In the process, she wanted to take down the man who kidnapped and sold and abused her sister. But her handler thinks she needs back up. Mason Hughes and his team arrive and she is not pleased. She gets under Mason's skin like no one. Can she be not that reckless to make bad strategic decisions by turning down Mason completely?Can Mason help her while his head is messed up over her?
From outside, you think Calista is this super cool undercover agent who is a skilled ruthless cold hearted assassin too. But the author takes us deep inside her broken heart. The heart that has been surviving on hunger of revenge and took every dark mark gladly to get the world rid of even darker criminals. This mission is her last stop and she is desperate and restless. Mason is like a solid block of reason and caution standing on her reckless way. He is intrigued by her. Their chemistry is a ticking time bomb. But he has to be patient and careful else she will run. Her life is a canvas for tragedies and she didnt think that she can trust a man enough to share her body and heart. But Mason stood by her. He is obviously extreme alpha with extreme protective ways. His instinct tells him to hide Calista from all the danger but he also knew he is her partner. She is brilliant and lethal and stubborn and he just needed to be there with his team. The plot is complex and consists of many puzzle pieces. The twists and turns kept me on my toes.
I reviewed an early copy voluntarily
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
What I love about Riley Edwards is that she can write a badass FMC. Not a damsel in distress, even when out of their depth. They'll come out fighting and will take on the biggest of baddies single handed if they must. But she has this knack of writing an MMC who can be protective, possessive and supportive - all whilst not diminishing the FMC's own agency. Mason is generally one of these great MMC's but he has his moments of "Me Mason, you little woman".
Calista and Mason have history (which you may know about if you've read book one). He and his team were sent in to "save" her from being trafficked only to find out she was an undercover operative who wanted to get taken! She is after the man who trafficked and abused her sister and she won't quit until he's no longer breathing.
Calista is tired of being on the move, taking out the human trash. She intends to finish her mission, go hide out somewhere remote with no-one around her and just read her books - a move a think we can all get behind! Dubai is supposed to be the last stop on her mission but her assistant/analyst has decided she needs an extra pair of hands or so and deploys Mason and his team to assist.
I wasn't a fan of the Sweetness nickname, especially before they got together - not exactly professional Mason! I'd have preferred just Cali or even just her last name. I enjoyed learning all about Mason's issues and about the history between Calista and the bid bad. I understood the reasoning behind one of the strongest tropes in the story but it was still a wee bit hard to wrap my head around this sexy, smart and badass female not taking charge of her own sexual being, especially with the work she was undertaking.
But as with anything it takes the right person, right time and I was so proud of her for being take charge in all the other areas of her life and being unashamed to wear what she wants, how she wants. Mason isn't perfect, which is in his favour. He can be a bit of a Neanderthal and he was a bit too fond of hauling her around - she is a middle aged woman, and uninjured, let her walk dammit.
There was plenty of motion on taking down the bog bad and the action scenes were well crafted. Now awaiting book 3!
Calista and Mason have history (which you may know about if you've read book one). He and his team were sent in to "save" her from being trafficked only to find out she was an undercover operative who wanted to get taken! She is after the man who trafficked and abused her sister and she won't quit until he's no longer breathing.
Calista is tired of being on the move, taking out the human trash. She intends to finish her mission, go hide out somewhere remote with no-one around her and just read her books - a move a think we can all get behind! Dubai is supposed to be the last stop on her mission but her assistant/analyst has decided she needs an extra pair of hands or so and deploys Mason and his team to assist.
I wasn't a fan of the Sweetness nickname, especially before they got together - not exactly professional Mason! I'd have preferred just Cali or even just her last name. I enjoyed learning all about Mason's issues and about the history between Calista and the bid bad. I understood the reasoning behind one of the strongest tropes in the story but it was still a wee bit hard to wrap my head around this sexy, smart and badass female not taking charge of her own sexual being, especially with the work she was undertaking.
But as with anything it takes the right person, right time and I was so proud of her for being take charge in all the other areas of her life and being unashamed to wear what she wants, how she wants. Mason isn't perfect, which is in his favour. He can be a bit of a Neanderthal and he was a bit too fond of hauling her around - she is a middle aged woman, and uninjured, let her walk dammit.
There was plenty of motion on taking down the bog bad and the action scenes were well crafted. Now awaiting book 3!
March 18, 2026
You know that friend who shows up, looks you dead in the eye, and says "I need you to trust me on this one"? That's Riley Edwards. Every single book. And every single time, she's right.
Fallen Hero is book two in the series and I am here, doing my civic duty, to tell you that you need to read book one first. Go. I'll wait. Because Riley Edwards does not just write books, she builds worlds with layers and connections and people you actually care about, and you are going to want the full picture before you walk into Mason and Calista's story.
Okay. Are we caught up? Good. Here's what's happening. Mason is a former Navy SEAL with a heart he locked up years ago for very good reasons, and Calista is a woman on a mission who absolutely does not have time for distractions, and definitely not one that looks like him. And then Dubai happens, their missions get hopelessly tangled, and these two incredibly stubborn, emotionally guarded people start catching feelings in the middle of an international trafficking operation because apparently that's just how their lives go now.
Calista completely wrecked me. She is fierce and ruthless and so tightly in control of everything around her, and when the cracks start to show you understand exactly why she built every single one of those walls. Mason is all discipline and alpha energy on the outside and an absolute mountain of feelings on the inside that he has no idea what to do with. Watching them frustrate each other, challenge each other, and slowly start to trust each other is the kind of reading experience that has you physically turning pages faster without even realizing it.
The action is nonstop, the tension is delicious, and when they finally give in to what has been building between them, you will feel personally responsible for it. Like you coached them there yourself. Riley Edwards just keeps getting better and I will be here, happily and impatiently, waiting for whatever she does next. Read it. Just clear your schedule first. You have been warned.
Fallen Hero is book two in the series and I am here, doing my civic duty, to tell you that you need to read book one first. Go. I'll wait. Because Riley Edwards does not just write books, she builds worlds with layers and connections and people you actually care about, and you are going to want the full picture before you walk into Mason and Calista's story.
Okay. Are we caught up? Good. Here's what's happening. Mason is a former Navy SEAL with a heart he locked up years ago for very good reasons, and Calista is a woman on a mission who absolutely does not have time for distractions, and definitely not one that looks like him. And then Dubai happens, their missions get hopelessly tangled, and these two incredibly stubborn, emotionally guarded people start catching feelings in the middle of an international trafficking operation because apparently that's just how their lives go now.
Calista completely wrecked me. She is fierce and ruthless and so tightly in control of everything around her, and when the cracks start to show you understand exactly why she built every single one of those walls. Mason is all discipline and alpha energy on the outside and an absolute mountain of feelings on the inside that he has no idea what to do with. Watching them frustrate each other, challenge each other, and slowly start to trust each other is the kind of reading experience that has you physically turning pages faster without even realizing it.
The action is nonstop, the tension is delicious, and when they finally give in to what has been building between them, you will feel personally responsible for it. Like you coached them there yourself. Riley Edwards just keeps getting better and I will be here, happily and impatiently, waiting for whatever she does next. Read it. Just clear your schedule first. You have been warned.
March 25, 2026
The Downrange series is shaping up to be one of my favorite romantic suspense series ever- I know that is a bold statement but this team is definitely something special. I don’t know if it is because they are older characters, have lived and seen things most people haven’t, or if it is the found family that they create.
Calista Vantura is on a mission, and she is single focused. She is after the man that took her sister from her, and in the process she will take down others that hurt children, women and men. While Cali is a skilled black op/agent she is also what one would call a lone wolf. She is out there taking on the baddest of the bad with little to no back up. She doesn’t trust- and honestly, for good reason she has been let down by a lot of people in her past. But there is just something about Mason.
Mason Hughes has built some tall and strong walls around himself. To say the man doesn’t trust is a huge understatement! This man does not trust women- it was clear in the previous book that someone did a number on Mason’s heart. While he may have impenetrable walls there is most definitely something about Calista that he cannot get out of his head so when the call comes in to help her on a mission he is there, and will not let her out of his sight. I LOVED his alpha energy and the way he learned what Calista needed so quickly, he let her do her thing but was not far behind to make sure that he was there when she needed him.
While slow burn isn’t usually my jam there really is no other way for this to work. These two both had a long line of people that broke their trust that they needed to built trust with weather piece by piece. The times when they were just Mase and Cali were my favorite- when they were being their true selves and letting one another in. Their connection was so palpable and obvious to the team. This story was intense because these two were working hard to take down some serious bad guys in the world and it is a lot. Simply put, this book was amazing and I cannot wait to read is next for this crew!
Calista Vantura is on a mission, and she is single focused. She is after the man that took her sister from her, and in the process she will take down others that hurt children, women and men. While Cali is a skilled black op/agent she is also what one would call a lone wolf. She is out there taking on the baddest of the bad with little to no back up. She doesn’t trust- and honestly, for good reason she has been let down by a lot of people in her past. But there is just something about Mason.
Mason Hughes has built some tall and strong walls around himself. To say the man doesn’t trust is a huge understatement! This man does not trust women- it was clear in the previous book that someone did a number on Mason’s heart. While he may have impenetrable walls there is most definitely something about Calista that he cannot get out of his head so when the call comes in to help her on a mission he is there, and will not let her out of his sight. I LOVED his alpha energy and the way he learned what Calista needed so quickly, he let her do her thing but was not far behind to make sure that he was there when she needed him.
While slow burn isn’t usually my jam there really is no other way for this to work. These two both had a long line of people that broke their trust that they needed to built trust with weather piece by piece. The times when they were just Mase and Cali were my favorite- when they were being their true selves and letting one another in. Their connection was so palpable and obvious to the team. This story was intense because these two were working hard to take down some serious bad guys in the world and it is a lot. Simply put, this book was amazing and I cannot wait to read is next for this crew!
March 28, 2026
I can't believe I stopped reading a Riley Edwards book at 40%.
The last two books tested me, and I thought they really weren't that good. This one tipped me right over.
By the end of the second chapter, I wanted to scream "I GET IT. STOP ALREADY." I understand all the characters HATE human trafficking with a red hot vengeance. I don't need constant reminders, like every single paragraph, about the misery of human trafficking. I don't need every other sentence to remind me that every building and tree was built by slave labor. I don't need to be lectured to about the horrific things that happen to trafficking victims.
No joke. Look at literally every paragraph and see the continued verbiage that tells us over and over and over in passionate terms about how much every character detects human trafficking and anyone associated with it.
I agree with the stance. But I don't want to read a book whose every paragraph lectures me about how much human trafficking is hated. It's too much. It's overload. Up to 40%, this is the writing style with the exception of a handful of pages devoted to the first meeting of the leads and a team sent in foR backup. That's over 100 pages of vitriol, self righteous posturing, terrible memories of victims rescued or found dead, and the endless thoughts or statements of the characters about how much they hate trafficking as well as everything built by forced labor around them. Not one character can look out a window without the lecturing of how the beauty is fake because it was built by slave labor and people cheated out of their lives. It is so much overload that the story, or what I think the story is, becomes completely overshadowed. It less than secondary.
The second issue is the constant hatred between the leads, which is supposed to be the mask of their great attraction. Again, it's a ton of overload. Every comment is barbed with vitriol, viciousness, insult, and/or snarkiness. Too much.
I've read Riley Edwards for years and this is the first book I DNF.
The last two books tested me, and I thought they really weren't that good. This one tipped me right over.
By the end of the second chapter, I wanted to scream "I GET IT. STOP ALREADY." I understand all the characters HATE human trafficking with a red hot vengeance. I don't need constant reminders, like every single paragraph, about the misery of human trafficking. I don't need every other sentence to remind me that every building and tree was built by slave labor. I don't need to be lectured to about the horrific things that happen to trafficking victims.
No joke. Look at literally every paragraph and see the continued verbiage that tells us over and over and over in passionate terms about how much every character detects human trafficking and anyone associated with it.
I agree with the stance. But I don't want to read a book whose every paragraph lectures me about how much human trafficking is hated. It's too much. It's overload. Up to 40%, this is the writing style with the exception of a handful of pages devoted to the first meeting of the leads and a team sent in foR backup. That's over 100 pages of vitriol, self righteous posturing, terrible memories of victims rescued or found dead, and the endless thoughts or statements of the characters about how much they hate trafficking as well as everything built by forced labor around them. Not one character can look out a window without the lecturing of how the beauty is fake because it was built by slave labor and people cheated out of their lives. It is so much overload that the story, or what I think the story is, becomes completely overshadowed. It less than secondary.
The second issue is the constant hatred between the leads, which is supposed to be the mask of their great attraction. Again, it's a ton of overload. Every comment is barbed with vitriol, viciousness, insult, and/or snarkiness. Too much.
I've read Riley Edwards for years and this is the first book I DNF.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
🎧 2.5 stars
I saw the vision and I liked it a lot. Sadly, that's why I was mostly disappointed with this book.
I love romantic suspense. I think it is my favourite genre at the moment, but it is not easy to do well. The suspense is a big part of the story, so I expect the plot to stand on its own, even without the romance. And yes, this point I would call a success. You clearly know who Calista is, what her job is, and how she wants to achieve it. Peppering some personal revenge in later on should be only a cherry on top. But the execution is where this book dropped spectacularly. It would be considered a spoiler, so I will not go too much in depth, but let me just say the revenge was served too cold for my liking. The suspense is barely there since there is no component of mystery. I wasn't rooting for the heroine because she barely did anything the whole book except chilling in her apartment and having one dinner meeting.
The romance itself was pretty sweet and I definitely felt like the MMC and FMC do fit together. In a very oddly virginal way. I hate virginity being a plot point in books, but when the characters are over 40... I don't know.
The main audience for this will be people looking for emotional connection, slow burn, low spice, and a feeling of "purity". FMC is a virgin, MMC is celibate for 10 years and boy, do they mention these facts a lot.
The audiobook was pretty well done and I would say it's a perfect way to consume this book. I was starting to lose interest at about 40% due to the tempo change (so slow), but the narrators were doing a good enough job that they helped me push through and not actually hate the experience. Except for the ending. I hated that part. The most unsatisfying thing I’ve read in a long time.
I do like Riley Edwards' writing, but I think the tropes do not match what I expect and that's the biggest reason why I felt let down.
ALC via NetGalley
I am leaving this review voluntarily
I saw the vision and I liked it a lot. Sadly, that's why I was mostly disappointed with this book.
I love romantic suspense. I think it is my favourite genre at the moment, but it is not easy to do well. The suspense is a big part of the story, so I expect the plot to stand on its own, even without the romance. And yes, this point I would call a success. You clearly know who Calista is, what her job is, and how she wants to achieve it. Peppering some personal revenge in later on should be only a cherry on top. But the execution is where this book dropped spectacularly. It would be considered a spoiler, so I will not go too much in depth, but let me just say the revenge was served too cold for my liking. The suspense is barely there since there is no component of mystery. I wasn't rooting for the heroine because she barely did anything the whole book except chilling in her apartment and having one dinner meeting.
The romance itself was pretty sweet and I definitely felt like the MMC and FMC do fit together. In a very oddly virginal way. I hate virginity being a plot point in books, but when the characters are over 40... I don't know.
The main audience for this will be people looking for emotional connection, slow burn, low spice, and a feeling of "purity". FMC is a virgin, MMC is celibate for 10 years and boy, do they mention these facts a lot.
The audiobook was pretty well done and I would say it's a perfect way to consume this book. I was starting to lose interest at about 40% due to the tempo change (so slow), but the narrators were doing a good enough job that they helped me push through and not actually hate the experience. Except for the ending. I hated that part. The most unsatisfying thing I’ve read in a long time.
I do like Riley Edwards' writing, but I think the tropes do not match what I expect and that's the biggest reason why I felt let down.
ALC via NetGalley
I am leaving this review voluntarily
November 30, 2025
ARC review. Calista is a 40 yr old assassin on a mission to avenge her sister after she was kidnapped and trafficked. After years of hard work, Callie is so close to ending her sister's killer and finding peace, but this last mission is not something she can complete on her own, despite her attempts. Enter Mason, ex-seal and hired merc. Despite their rocky start, Callie and Mason join up to bring down an auction and end a trafficking ring.
Things I liked: the pacing was great. I finished this book in less than 2 days. It kept my attention with just the right amount of tension and suspension. I love the work that they do, as it takes special people to go in and save women, children, and men from trafficking. The side characters were so developed and nice comic relief. Loved the small moments between Callie and Mase on the balcony. Also, Mason is amazing and may be my new favorite man. Is he a bit caveman-ish? Yes. Do I like that in a man? Oh yes.
Things I didn't like: the book begins in the middle of action. I didn't read the first book of this series, so I would probably understand a bit more if I had read it first. However, enough background information is given throughout the story to not technically need to read the first book. I did feel that Callie was a bit one dimensional, but slowly developed through the story. Her growth was very slow though and seemed to hit all at once at the very end of the book.
TW are a must before you read this book. Some of the material is sensitive and hard to read about. While it doesn't go into great detail, it can be triggering for some. It was very respectful of the subject and those who have been in those situations. I greatly appreciate how she approached it.
3.5⭐
Things I liked: the pacing was great. I finished this book in less than 2 days. It kept my attention with just the right amount of tension and suspension. I love the work that they do, as it takes special people to go in and save women, children, and men from trafficking. The side characters were so developed and nice comic relief. Loved the small moments between Callie and Mase on the balcony. Also, Mason is amazing and may be my new favorite man. Is he a bit caveman-ish? Yes. Do I like that in a man? Oh yes.
Things I didn't like: the book begins in the middle of action. I didn't read the first book of this series, so I would probably understand a bit more if I had read it first. However, enough background information is given throughout the story to not technically need to read the first book. I did feel that Callie was a bit one dimensional, but slowly developed through the story. Her growth was very slow though and seemed to hit all at once at the very end of the book.
TW are a must before you read this book. Some of the material is sensitive and hard to read about. While it doesn't go into great detail, it can be triggering for some. It was very respectful of the subject and those who have been in those situations. I greatly appreciate how she approached it.
3.5⭐
October 28, 2025
I love a good military romance, and Fallen Hero was exactly the kind of story that reminds me why I keep coming back to this genre. I had SO much fun with this one! I read Fixed Asset first (which I definitely recommend doing), and I really appreciated how Mason and Calista’s history from book one carried over because it gave their story this slow burn tension that felt earned.
Mason is intense, closed off, and doesn’t trust easily, so the tug of war between him and Calista early on made their eventual connection even better. Calista’s mission for vengeance and Mason’s protective instincts clashed in the best way, creating that perfect mix of push and pull I love in a romance. The chemistry between them was strong, but I also liked how their trust grew slowly because it felt genuine given their pasts.
The suspense and mystery plot lines were another highlight. I really enjoyed the action elements and learning more about the Downrange guys and all that they do. The missions, the danger, and the loyalty between the team all added depth and gave the romance a strong backdrop. I also appreciated how the author touched on heavy themes like trafficking and betrayal without letting them overshadow the heart of the story.
This book checked so many of my favorite boxes with older characters, emotional baggage, strong chemistry, danger, and a team dynamic that kept me hooked. Mason and Calista’s story had action, heart, and just the right amount of spice. A great addition to the series and another reason why Riley Edwards remains one of my go to authors for military romance.
Thank you to NetGalley, Riley Edwards, and Montlake for the eARC of this book.
Mason is intense, closed off, and doesn’t trust easily, so the tug of war between him and Calista early on made their eventual connection even better. Calista’s mission for vengeance and Mason’s protective instincts clashed in the best way, creating that perfect mix of push and pull I love in a romance. The chemistry between them was strong, but I also liked how their trust grew slowly because it felt genuine given their pasts.
The suspense and mystery plot lines were another highlight. I really enjoyed the action elements and learning more about the Downrange guys and all that they do. The missions, the danger, and the loyalty between the team all added depth and gave the romance a strong backdrop. I also appreciated how the author touched on heavy themes like trafficking and betrayal without letting them overshadow the heart of the story.
This book checked so many of my favorite boxes with older characters, emotional baggage, strong chemistry, danger, and a team dynamic that kept me hooked. Mason and Calista’s story had action, heart, and just the right amount of spice. A great addition to the series and another reason why Riley Edwards remains one of my go to authors for military romance.
Thank you to NetGalley, Riley Edwards, and Montlake for the eARC of this book.
November 13, 2025
Rating: 3/5
Spice: 1.5/5
My thoughts:
The premise of this book hooked me immediately, but by the middle it slowed down and then the ending felt like running into a brick wall, abrupt.
Don't get me wrong I still really liked the story, but as the pace rollercoastered, so did my thoughts.
The writing was easy enough to get through and I appreciate when an author writes clearly. However, some chapters and conversations felt repetitive, which brought about this snowball effect of pacing issues.
I liked the plot though. It was strong enough to keep me invested in how the ending was going to play out, even when the characters felt like charicatures. While I do agree that people should be loyal and should not lie, I get that at times there are grey areas. These characters were very black and white and struggled to accept grey - weird, considering their work...
But enough of me yammering. At the end of the day, I liked the book. It wasn't a new favourite but it kept me entertained, and that was really all I wanted it to do.
I would definitely recommend this to readers who enjoy characters who contradict themselves, but who fight for the greater good.
Some content warnings to keep in mind*:
*Not all of these content warnings are discussed in-depth in the book, but readers who may be sensitive to these topics should take note. Please prioritise your mental health.
Thank you to Netgalley and Montlake for the e-ARC of this book.
Spice: 1.5/5
My thoughts:
The premise of this book hooked me immediately, but by the middle it slowed down and then the ending felt like running into a brick wall, abrupt.
Don't get me wrong I still really liked the story, but as the pace rollercoastered, so did my thoughts.
The writing was easy enough to get through and I appreciate when an author writes clearly. However, some chapters and conversations felt repetitive, which brought about this snowball effect of pacing issues.
I liked the plot though. It was strong enough to keep me invested in how the ending was going to play out, even when the characters felt like charicatures. While I do agree that people should be loyal and should not lie, I get that at times there are grey areas. These characters were very black and white and struggled to accept grey - weird, considering their work...
But enough of me yammering. At the end of the day, I liked the book. It wasn't a new favourite but it kept me entertained, and that was really all I wanted it to do.
I would definitely recommend this to readers who enjoy characters who contradict themselves, but who fight for the greater good.
Some content warnings to keep in mind*:
*Not all of these content warnings are discussed in-depth in the book, but readers who may be sensitive to these topics should take note. Please prioritise your mental health.
Thank you to Netgalley and Montlake for the e-ARC of this book.
March 24, 2026
ARC Read from author:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Fallen Hero by Riley Edwards is everything I want in a romantic suspense, and then some. It’s intense, emotional, fast-paced, and packed with just the right amount of heat, making it completely impossible to put down.
From the start, the story pulls you into a high-stakes world of danger and covert missions, where every moment feels charged with tension. The action is sharp and gripping, but what really makes this book shine is how seamlessly it blends that adrenaline with a deeply emotional core.
Mason and Calista are an absolute powerhouse duo. Their dynamic is electric, full of sharp banter, undeniable chemistry, and that delicious push-and-pull that keeps you hooked. Both characters are strong, complex, and fiercely independent, which makes their connection feel earned rather than easy. Watching their walls crack (just enough) adds so much depth without ever slowing the pace.
What stood out most to me is how the story balances romance with something much darker and more meaningful. It doesn’t shy away from heavy themes, giving the plot real weight and purpose while still delivering all the excitement and tension you’d expect from a military romantic suspense.
And the writing? Addictive. The chapters fly by, the dialogue feels natural and sharp, and the pacing keeps you fully invested from beginning to end. It’s one of those books where you tell yourself “just one more chapter” and suddenly it’s 2am.
Overall, Fallen Hero is a standout sequel - gritty, passionate, and utterly compelling. If you love strong characters, explosive chemistry, and action-packed romance with heart, this one is a must-read.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Fallen Hero by Riley Edwards is everything I want in a romantic suspense, and then some. It’s intense, emotional, fast-paced, and packed with just the right amount of heat, making it completely impossible to put down.
From the start, the story pulls you into a high-stakes world of danger and covert missions, where every moment feels charged with tension. The action is sharp and gripping, but what really makes this book shine is how seamlessly it blends that adrenaline with a deeply emotional core.
Mason and Calista are an absolute powerhouse duo. Their dynamic is electric, full of sharp banter, undeniable chemistry, and that delicious push-and-pull that keeps you hooked. Both characters are strong, complex, and fiercely independent, which makes their connection feel earned rather than easy. Watching their walls crack (just enough) adds so much depth without ever slowing the pace.
What stood out most to me is how the story balances romance with something much darker and more meaningful. It doesn’t shy away from heavy themes, giving the plot real weight and purpose while still delivering all the excitement and tension you’d expect from a military romantic suspense.
And the writing? Addictive. The chapters fly by, the dialogue feels natural and sharp, and the pacing keeps you fully invested from beginning to end. It’s one of those books where you tell yourself “just one more chapter” and suddenly it’s 2am.
Overall, Fallen Hero is a standout sequel - gritty, passionate, and utterly compelling. If you love strong characters, explosive chemistry, and action-packed romance with heart, this one is a must-read.
March 26, 2026
Trust Is the Real Battlefield ❤️🔥
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️ ½
Heat Level: 🔥🔥
Tear Drops: 💧
📚EBOOK📚
I received this ARC from NetGalley because honestly… I’ll read anything by Riley Edwards at this point. It’s always a ride—she somehow makes me laugh, ache, and smile all in the same chapter, and Fallen Hero was no exception.
Mason and Calista are both carrying heavy baggage, and trust doesn’t come easy to either of them. But that pull between them? Immediate. Intense. The kind they both try (and fail) to fight. I loved Mason’s protective side—even when Calista clearly doesn’t need saving—and Calista? Her sassy, sharp attitude and the banter between them made this so fun to read. There’s a strong push-and-pull, almost enemies-to-lovers tension that keeps things simmering.
Set against a dangerous mission involving an international trafficking ring, the story blends romantic suspense with that military edge I love. As their paths collide in Dubai, secrets, past trauma, and survival force them closer together… whether they’re ready or not. Watching them slowly break down walls and face their pasts was really satisfying.
We do meet Calista in book one, so I definitely recommend reading the series in order for the full experience—it adds so much depth to her story here.
If you’re into romantic suspense with strong, stubborn characters, emotional healing, and just enough spice to keep things interesting, Fallen Hero is one that quietly sneaks up on you 💥
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️ ½
Heat Level: 🔥🔥
Tear Drops: 💧
📚EBOOK📚
I received this ARC from NetGalley because honestly… I’ll read anything by Riley Edwards at this point. It’s always a ride—she somehow makes me laugh, ache, and smile all in the same chapter, and Fallen Hero was no exception.
Mason and Calista are both carrying heavy baggage, and trust doesn’t come easy to either of them. But that pull between them? Immediate. Intense. The kind they both try (and fail) to fight. I loved Mason’s protective side—even when Calista clearly doesn’t need saving—and Calista? Her sassy, sharp attitude and the banter between them made this so fun to read. There’s a strong push-and-pull, almost enemies-to-lovers tension that keeps things simmering.
Set against a dangerous mission involving an international trafficking ring, the story blends romantic suspense with that military edge I love. As their paths collide in Dubai, secrets, past trauma, and survival force them closer together… whether they’re ready or not. Watching them slowly break down walls and face their pasts was really satisfying.
We do meet Calista in book one, so I definitely recommend reading the series in order for the full experience—it adds so much depth to her story here.
If you’re into romantic suspense with strong, stubborn characters, emotional healing, and just enough spice to keep things interesting, Fallen Hero is one that quietly sneaks up on you 💥
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Fallen Hero delivers exactly what Riley Edwards is known for—high‑stakes romantic suspense wrapped in intense emotion, fierce chemistry, and characters shaped by deeply personal battles. The story follows former Navy SEAL Mason Hughes, a man hardened by betrayal, and Calista Ventura, a determined woman on a mission for vengeance. When their paths collide during a dangerous operation in Dubai, the two are forced into an uneasy partnership that quickly turns into something much more charged.
The book’s strength lies in its blend of emotional depth and action‑driven tension. Edwards weaves themes of trust, trauma, and resilience into a plot centered around exposing an international trafficking ring—an element that brings weight to the narrative without overwhelming the romance. The sparks between Mason and Calista feel organic, fueled by their clashing instincts: his protective nature versus her fierce independence. Their shared moments—especially when walls come down—add warmth and vulnerability to the otherwise high‑octane storyline.
As with many romantic suspense novels, there are familiar beats, and readers seeking nonstop action may find this book slightly more character‑focused than expected. Still, the emotional payoff is strong, and the tension—both romantic and situational—remains engaging throughout.
Overall, Fallen Hero is a satisfying read filled with grit, heat, and heart. With compelling leads, a dangerous mission, and a romance forged under fire, it stands as a strong addition to the Downrange series and earns a solid four stars.
The book’s strength lies in its blend of emotional depth and action‑driven tension. Edwards weaves themes of trust, trauma, and resilience into a plot centered around exposing an international trafficking ring—an element that brings weight to the narrative without overwhelming the romance. The sparks between Mason and Calista feel organic, fueled by their clashing instincts: his protective nature versus her fierce independence. Their shared moments—especially when walls come down—add warmth and vulnerability to the otherwise high‑octane storyline.
As with many romantic suspense novels, there are familiar beats, and readers seeking nonstop action may find this book slightly more character‑focused than expected. Still, the emotional payoff is strong, and the tension—both romantic and situational—remains engaging throughout.
Overall, Fallen Hero is a satisfying read filled with grit, heat, and heart. With compelling leads, a dangerous mission, and a romance forged under fire, it stands as a strong addition to the Downrange series and earns a solid four stars.
October 23, 2025
3.5
Calista Ventura ha pasado media vida viviendo con una sola misión: vengar la muerte de su hermana, víctima de una red de tráfico humano dirigida por el hombre que alguna vez dijo amarla. Fría, metódica y con una habilidad letal para infiltrarse en los lugares más peligrosos, Calista ha aprendido a sobrevivir sin permitir que nadie cruce sus muros. Pero su plan de venganza se complica cuando vuelve a cruzarse con Mason Hughes, un exmilitar convertido en agente encubierto que no está dispuesto a dejarla luchar sola.
Mientras una operación internacional amenaza con salir mal y viejos enemigos resurgen, la línea entre justicia y obsesión se vuelve cada vez más delgada. Mason ve en Calista mucho más que una aliada: ve a la mujer que puede devolverle la paz a un corazón endurecido por la guerra. Ella, en cambio, deberá decidir si dejará que el amor la salve o si su sed de venganza la consumirá por completo.
Entre misiones, secretos y heridas que nunca cicatrizaron, Fallen Hero es una historia de redención, pasión y segundas oportunidades, donde el mayor riesgo no está en el campo de batalla, sino en entregar el corazón.
__
Sentí que Cali era demasiado inocente (en algunos aspectos) para su edad, y resultaba un poco raro. No me refiero a su virginidad, porque eso tiene sentido considerando todo lo que vivió.
Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest opinion.
Calista Ventura ha pasado media vida viviendo con una sola misión: vengar la muerte de su hermana, víctima de una red de tráfico humano dirigida por el hombre que alguna vez dijo amarla. Fría, metódica y con una habilidad letal para infiltrarse en los lugares más peligrosos, Calista ha aprendido a sobrevivir sin permitir que nadie cruce sus muros. Pero su plan de venganza se complica cuando vuelve a cruzarse con Mason Hughes, un exmilitar convertido en agente encubierto que no está dispuesto a dejarla luchar sola.
Mientras una operación internacional amenaza con salir mal y viejos enemigos resurgen, la línea entre justicia y obsesión se vuelve cada vez más delgada. Mason ve en Calista mucho más que una aliada: ve a la mujer que puede devolverle la paz a un corazón endurecido por la guerra. Ella, en cambio, deberá decidir si dejará que el amor la salve o si su sed de venganza la consumirá por completo.
Entre misiones, secretos y heridas que nunca cicatrizaron, Fallen Hero es una historia de redención, pasión y segundas oportunidades, donde el mayor riesgo no está en el campo de batalla, sino en entregar el corazón.
__
Sentí que Cali era demasiado inocente (en algunos aspectos) para su edad, y resultaba un poco raro. No me refiero a su virginidad, porque eso tiene sentido considerando todo lo que vivió.
Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest opinion.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Fallen Hero was fast-paced in the best way—action-heavy without feeling chaotic, easy to follow, and anchored by strong, compelling characters. Riley Edwards balances a heavier storyline with moments of humor and warmth, largely thanks to the found family dynamic that runs throughout the book. Even when the stakes are high, there’s a lightness to the relationships that makes the story incredibly real!
Calista is a standout heroine for me. She’s a mercenary, a total badass, and very much a lone wolf. Her life is driven by one goal: avenging her sister, no matter the cost. She doesn’t trust easily, doesn’t open up, and keeps everyone at arm’s length. Enter Mason and his team—through circumstance rather than choice—and from the start, there’s an undeniable pull between Calista and Mason. Neither of them quite understands it at first, which creates a delicious push-and-pull tension that simmers throughout the story.
When that tension finally snaps, the payoff is worth the wait. The romance is hot and spicy, yes—but it’s also incredibly sweet and tender. Watching Calista and Mason slowly peel back their layers, confront their pasts, and bare their souls to one another adds real emotional depth. The slow burn works on both a physical and emotional level!
If you’re looking for an action-packed romantic suspense with a strong heroine, found family vibes, and a slow-burn romance that delivers both heat and heart, Fallen Hero is an easy recommendation!!
Calista is a standout heroine for me. She’s a mercenary, a total badass, and very much a lone wolf. Her life is driven by one goal: avenging her sister, no matter the cost. She doesn’t trust easily, doesn’t open up, and keeps everyone at arm’s length. Enter Mason and his team—through circumstance rather than choice—and from the start, there’s an undeniable pull between Calista and Mason. Neither of them quite understands it at first, which creates a delicious push-and-pull tension that simmers throughout the story.
When that tension finally snaps, the payoff is worth the wait. The romance is hot and spicy, yes—but it’s also incredibly sweet and tender. Watching Calista and Mason slowly peel back their layers, confront their pasts, and bare their souls to one another adds real emotional depth. The slow burn works on both a physical and emotional level!
If you’re looking for an action-packed romantic suspense with a strong heroine, found family vibes, and a slow-burn romance that delivers both heat and heart, Fallen Hero is an easy recommendation!!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Riley has come through with the second installment in the Downrange series. This time, we are focusing on Mason, who has walled off his heart and emotions after deep betrayals that go back into his younger years. He's meeting his match in Calista Ventura, who is on a mission to avenge her sister, and nothing, not even the wall of Mason Hughes, is going to keep her from reaching her goal: kill the man who took her sister. These two collide in the UAE, and the banter, sparks, and attitudes are flying. As we watch these two try to fight their attraction to each other (and fail much to the reader's delight), we also learn of the hurts and walls they must break down for each other. Fortunately, Riley has surrounded them with a dynamic cast of characters to call them out on their antics and help them face their issues. This is how Riley builds a found family in her series that you fall in love with and never want to leave. I particularly like how Riley is continuing to focus her books on the problem of human trafficking. I know it is a tragedy taking place in our world at an alarming rate, and even in her romance books, this author is not pulling any punches, shining a light on how easily it happens and how often it happens. And it provides an endless supply of bad guys for our guys to defeat! I am liking this downrange crew and cannot wait for the next one!
Thank you, NetGalley and Montlake, for the eArc. These opinions are mine.
Thank you, NetGalley and Montlake, for the eArc. These opinions are mine.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
First I would like to thank NetGalley and Riley Edwards (and team) for allowing me the pleasure of an ARC. This book did not dissapoint
I will say reading the second book in a series without having read the first is not the best decision 100% my own fault, not realizing this was book 2 before I started reading. While I do think reading the first book would have given some additional context for certain characters and relationships, it’s absolutely not required to enjoy this story.
One of my favorite aspects was the banter between the MMC (Mason) and MFC (Cali). It struck such a great balance—playful, engaging, and full of chemistry. Their dynamic kept the story lively and made their moments together really enjoyable.
The spicy scenes were chef’s kiss—well written and perfectly placed without ever overtaking the overall plot. They added to the romance rather than distracting from it, which I really appreciated.
There was also a touch of suspense woven into the story, which helped keep things interesting and added another layer beyond the romance. Overall, this was a quick and easy read that kept me hooked from start to finish.
One of my favorite lines was:
“…I could no longer deny I’d fallen in love…”
If you enjoy romance with great character chemistry, well-balanced spice, and just enough suspense to keep you turning the pages, this is definitely worth picking up.
I will say reading the second book in a series without having read the first is not the best decision 100% my own fault, not realizing this was book 2 before I started reading. While I do think reading the first book would have given some additional context for certain characters and relationships, it’s absolutely not required to enjoy this story.
One of my favorite aspects was the banter between the MMC (Mason) and MFC (Cali). It struck such a great balance—playful, engaging, and full of chemistry. Their dynamic kept the story lively and made their moments together really enjoyable.
The spicy scenes were chef’s kiss—well written and perfectly placed without ever overtaking the overall plot. They added to the romance rather than distracting from it, which I really appreciated.
There was also a touch of suspense woven into the story, which helped keep things interesting and added another layer beyond the romance. Overall, this was a quick and easy read that kept me hooked from start to finish.
One of my favorite lines was:
“…I could no longer deny I’d fallen in love…”
If you enjoy romance with great character chemistry, well-balanced spice, and just enough suspense to keep you turning the pages, this is definitely worth picking up.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The Downrange series delivers high-octane suspense and emotional depth.
Fallen Hero picks up right where Fixed Asset left off. Calista “Calli” Ventura — journalist, assassin, and seeker of justice — is in Dubai hunting the man who kidnapped and murdered her sister, while also chasing intel on a trafficking auction. In over her head, Calli’s handler calls in the men of Downrange; Mason Hughes shows up — determined to protect her, whether she wants his help or not. And she definitely doesn’t.
Riley Edwards delivers another fast-paced, adrenaline-charged action-romance that hits in all the right places. The action is classic Riley — tense, cinematic, and impossible to step away from. While some of the subject matter is heavy, Edwards approaches it with care, respect, and appropriate trigger warnings. The banter is a standout, especially between Calli and Mason — though honestly, Calli sparks with everyone. She’s sharp, fierce, unapologetically blunt, and driven by anger that feels fully justified. Her pursuit of justice is compelling, and I loved the slow-burn connection between her and Mason. Their pasts shape who they are in the present, and once their histories come to light, their dynamic makes perfect sense.
It’s a quick, engrossing read that pulled me in from the first chapter. And the epilogue left me eager for the next book — even if the new MMC remains a mystery for now.
Fallen Hero picks up right where Fixed Asset left off. Calista “Calli” Ventura — journalist, assassin, and seeker of justice — is in Dubai hunting the man who kidnapped and murdered her sister, while also chasing intel on a trafficking auction. In over her head, Calli’s handler calls in the men of Downrange; Mason Hughes shows up — determined to protect her, whether she wants his help or not. And she definitely doesn’t.
Riley Edwards delivers another fast-paced, adrenaline-charged action-romance that hits in all the right places. The action is classic Riley — tense, cinematic, and impossible to step away from. While some of the subject matter is heavy, Edwards approaches it with care, respect, and appropriate trigger warnings. The banter is a standout, especially between Calli and Mason — though honestly, Calli sparks with everyone. She’s sharp, fierce, unapologetically blunt, and driven by anger that feels fully justified. Her pursuit of justice is compelling, and I loved the slow-burn connection between her and Mason. Their pasts shape who they are in the present, and once their histories come to light, their dynamic makes perfect sense.
It’s a quick, engrossing read that pulled me in from the first chapter. And the epilogue left me eager for the next book — even if the new MMC remains a mystery for now.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you NetGalley for this ARC!
Military romance will always have my heart, and Fallen Hero reminded me exactly why.
Mason is guarded, intense, and slow to trust — the kind of hero who carries his past like armor. Calista is just as formidable in her own way: independent, mission-driven, and unwilling to rely on anyone. Watching those two collide was everything. Their dynamic is all friction and restraint at first, which makes the emotional payoff so satisfying.
What really worked for me was how earned their connection felt. Neither of them falls easily, and the slow shift from tension to trust added so much depth to their romance. When the walls finally come down? Worth every second of the buildup.
The action side of the story is just as strong. High-stakes missions, dangerous enemies, and the tight-knit loyalty of the Downrange team create a gripping backdrop. The found family element adds warmth and balance to the heavier themes woven throughout the plot.
This book blends suspense, emotion, and spice seamlessly. Strong heroine, protective hero, layered backstories, and a team dynamic that keeps you invested — it checked all my boxes.
Riley Edwards continues to be a go-to for military romance, and this was a solid addition to the series. If you love action-packed romantic suspense with heart, this one delivers. 🖤🔥
Military romance will always have my heart, and Fallen Hero reminded me exactly why.
Mason is guarded, intense, and slow to trust — the kind of hero who carries his past like armor. Calista is just as formidable in her own way: independent, mission-driven, and unwilling to rely on anyone. Watching those two collide was everything. Their dynamic is all friction and restraint at first, which makes the emotional payoff so satisfying.
What really worked for me was how earned their connection felt. Neither of them falls easily, and the slow shift from tension to trust added so much depth to their romance. When the walls finally come down? Worth every second of the buildup.
The action side of the story is just as strong. High-stakes missions, dangerous enemies, and the tight-knit loyalty of the Downrange team create a gripping backdrop. The found family element adds warmth and balance to the heavier themes woven throughout the plot.
This book blends suspense, emotion, and spice seamlessly. Strong heroine, protective hero, layered backstories, and a team dynamic that keeps you invested — it checked all my boxes.
Riley Edwards continues to be a go-to for military romance, and this was a solid addition to the series. If you love action-packed romantic suspense with heart, this one delivers. 🖤🔥
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Romantic fireworks and intense action!
Calli is in a tight spot in her mission to take down the man who destroyed her sister, but even so she doesn't have time for Mason and his team, even though they're there to help. Still, Mason not only has a job to do, he has an inexplicable compulsion to follow Calli and protect her from whatever she's up against.
We met Calli in the final scenes of the previous book, but you don't have to have read that one to start this one (though it does help). I was completely captivated by the intense chemistry and passionate dynamic between Calli and Mason, though the romance itself was a bit of a slow-burn as they navigated a very dangerous mission while building a friendship they could count on.
I especially loved how the author demonstrated that even the most in-control, cool-headed leaders can still be vulnerable to their emotional sides, even as they learn to use that to their strategic advantage. There's plenty of fast-paced action in this book, including one scene that came shockingly out of nowhere and surprised the hell out of me. Justice prevails in the end, and our satisfied yet weary operatives are awarded an extraordinary HEA of their own.
This is the kind of book that hooks you from the first scene and won't let you go until the very end, so plan accordingly. In the world of romantic suspense, you won't find any better than this.
Calli is in a tight spot in her mission to take down the man who destroyed her sister, but even so she doesn't have time for Mason and his team, even though they're there to help. Still, Mason not only has a job to do, he has an inexplicable compulsion to follow Calli and protect her from whatever she's up against.
We met Calli in the final scenes of the previous book, but you don't have to have read that one to start this one (though it does help). I was completely captivated by the intense chemistry and passionate dynamic between Calli and Mason, though the romance itself was a bit of a slow-burn as they navigated a very dangerous mission while building a friendship they could count on.
I especially loved how the author demonstrated that even the most in-control, cool-headed leaders can still be vulnerable to their emotional sides, even as they learn to use that to their strategic advantage. There's plenty of fast-paced action in this book, including one scene that came shockingly out of nowhere and surprised the hell out of me. Justice prevails in the end, and our satisfied yet weary operatives are awarded an extraordinary HEA of their own.
This is the kind of book that hooks you from the first scene and won't let you go until the very end, so plan accordingly. In the world of romantic suspense, you won't find any better than this.
March 28, 2026
FALLEN HERO by RILEY EDWARDS ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Fallen Hero is book two (#2) in the DOWNRANGE series.
Calista Ventura is on a mission. To clear the world of the monster who charmed her sister then forced her into working for an international trafficking ring.
When ex Navy SEAL Mason Hughes is called in to assist her, against her wishes, the pair clash but there’s no denying the chemistry burning hot between them….
———————————
Riley Edwards is back, back with a fantastic second book in the Downrange series.
Riley isn’t afraid to write b@d@ss, self assured, strong female characters who know what they want and aren’t afraid to get it.
Both MCs have their own issues, which shape their reactions and behaviour.
I loved that this was a slow burn, too many books rely on open door, spicy scenes without much plot but Riley manages to convey the MCs undoubted chemistry throughout the book without overdoing the s@x.
Told in dual perspective, with pretty much alternating chapters, we learn the characters issues and are privy to them working through them.
I read a paperback version of this book with around 270 pages, a male model cover and excellent editing.
I purchased this book. All comments are my own honest, unbiased opinion.
🔪 Forced Proximity
🔪 Enemies To Lovers
🔪 Military Fiction
🔪 Slow Burn
🔪 🔥🔥
Fallen Hero is book two (#2) in the DOWNRANGE series.
Calista Ventura is on a mission. To clear the world of the monster who charmed her sister then forced her into working for an international trafficking ring.
When ex Navy SEAL Mason Hughes is called in to assist her, against her wishes, the pair clash but there’s no denying the chemistry burning hot between them….
———————————
Riley Edwards is back, back with a fantastic second book in the Downrange series.
Riley isn’t afraid to write b@d@ss, self assured, strong female characters who know what they want and aren’t afraid to get it.
Both MCs have their own issues, which shape their reactions and behaviour.
I loved that this was a slow burn, too many books rely on open door, spicy scenes without much plot but Riley manages to convey the MCs undoubted chemistry throughout the book without overdoing the s@x.
Told in dual perspective, with pretty much alternating chapters, we learn the characters issues and are privy to them working through them.
I read a paperback version of this book with around 270 pages, a male model cover and excellent editing.
I purchased this book. All comments are my own honest, unbiased opinion.
🔪 Forced Proximity
🔪 Enemies To Lovers
🔪 Military Fiction
🔪 Slow Burn
🔪 🔥🔥
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
You have time if you want to read/listen to book 1 (Fixed Asset) before this one releases. While you can start with this book there is some background information/small conversations that help setup Mason's book and introduce the characters. Mason is the perfect alpha hero who falls quickly when he was determined that he would never let anyone else in. Calista is used to working alone as a CIA mercenary and while she's capable/used of taking care of herself this mission/job is personal. Strong, independent women who depend on only themselves need a partner who can make them feel safe enough to be vulnerable and trust their partner to know what they need when they need it. This book gave me everything I look for in a great romantic suspense but please check the trigger warnings if you need to. While I felt sensitivity was used when approaching these topics, it may still be triggering to others. One of my favorite quotes, "Shame was a fickle bitch. Regret is a prison. When they came together, they were agonizing tornado of irrational emotions. I was caught in a never-ending cycle of self-loathing and guilt.". You may have a few moments where you want to yell at some of the characters, but everything works out in the end. I can't get enough of this series.
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