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She needs a man to keep her alive in a world full of monsters.
He'll do.
Ever since the world fell apart, I've been like a princess trapped in a tower, looking down at our chaotic new reality from an upstairs window and never allowed to risk the dangers outside. Then my father dies, and there's no one left to keep me safe from selfish, violent men no longer restrained by social boundaries.
I need someone, and the leader of the local gang is my best choice.
Rough and intimidating, he's no prince. But Levi agrees to keep me safe, and I do my best to keep him happy. Maybe I want more than a transactional relationship, but the world after Impact doesn't allow for romantic daydreams.
Life is now a gritty fairy tale without a happily ever after.
He'll do.
Ever since the world fell apart, I've been like a princess trapped in a tower, looking down at our chaotic new reality from an upstairs window and never allowed to risk the dangers outside. Then my father dies, and there's no one left to keep me safe from selfish, violent men no longer restrained by social boundaries.
I need someone, and the leader of the local gang is my best choice.
Rough and intimidating, he's no prince. But Levi agrees to keep me safe, and I do my best to keep him happy. Maybe I want more than a transactional relationship, but the world after Impact doesn't allow for romantic daydreams.
Life is now a gritty fairy tale without a happily ever after.
ebook
First published September 22, 2025
332 people are currently reading
916 people want to read
About the author
Claire Kent
40 books2,157 followersClaire has been writing romance novels since she was twelve years old. After teaching English at the university level for several years, she started writing full-time under two different pen names. She lives in Virginia.
Her early books are sexy contemporary romances filled with heat and real emotion, but with the Hold series she transitioned to science fiction romance. Her current books are steamy post-apocalyptic romance set in the near future after a global catastrophe. They feature smart, resilient women trying to survive in a new chaotic world and falling in love with strong, gruff, taciturn men.
Claire also writes softer contemporary romances as Noelle Adams,
Her early books are sexy contemporary romances filled with heat and real emotion, but with the Hold series she transitioned to science fiction romance. Her current books are steamy post-apocalyptic romance set in the near future after a global catastrophe. They feature smart, resilient women trying to survive in a new chaotic world and falling in love with strong, gruff, taciturn men.
Claire also writes softer contemporary romances as Noelle Adams,
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 280 reviews
October 8, 2025
There’s a comfort in reading in this overall world Claire Kent has built. If you’ve read multiple books, you have an idea of some of the elements to expect, though the nuances and specifics vary. Plus, depending on where a new book falls on the timeline, you could get a fun cameo. But across the different series, they standalone while still adding to the bigger picture, including this newest story/series. I enjoyed the small references to Rapunzel and felt it was incorporated well, esp within the context of the world falling apart around the FMC, which she saw from outside her window. I had also taken a break from this world and it did feel nice to sink back in.
Written in first person, single POV of h. No ow drama, small om drama in the sense of another man covets the h while not having a chance with her. Both are experienced, with only small references of the h’s included (a handful of boyfriends and some positions she was familiar with mentioned).
Some tropes/themes:
☆ Transactional relationship to start
☆ She approaches him
☆ Age gap (H in his 40s and h in her 20s)
☆ Stoic H who’s done bad things and doesn’t think he’s a good man
☆ Somewhat sheltered h who was protected by her father
☆ She's a giggler when she's amused
☆ Unsatisfying sex to figuring out what works for both of them (there's some spanking fyi)
☆ Fast burn for steam, slow burn for emotional connection
☆ Female friendship
☆ Found family
☆ Putting on a show for others
☆ Slow acceptance/growth
Hailey (h) starts the book having just lost her father and facing a terrible choice. She was protected by him in their home as the apocalypse happened and society collapsed, but now she has the awareness to see that she needs a protector. Hailey had seen Boss/Levi (H) some mornings at the edge of her property, seeming to take a moment to relax while looking world-weary. Her father also told her that he prevented the group he runs from certain abuses. So she takes a chance and approaches him with the proposal that he’ll be her protector/man and she’ll exchange whatever she can give him. Levi’s shocked, however he does accept.
Because this starts as transactional, a good bit of their initial encounters are stilted and read as sort of mechanical in nature. The sex isn’t satisfying for Hailey (and she’s ok with that). Besides, she’s existing in a crisis-mode bubble where she’s not completely processed the loss of her father or her change in circumstances. For his part, Levi does show consideration of her and doesn’t press his advantage. He still takes what’s offered, but he’s not a bad man. It’s also hilarious that in all the steamy times that are present, he’s frank about the fact that he’s older and doesn’t have the refractory period of a younger guy or the drive of someone younger if he’s had a long day lol.
Hailey has a large adjustment as part of Levi’s group and with some bumps that occur, she finds her footing and makes connections. Her connection with Levi also deepens through some sweet, funny, and touching moments between them. I liked when he called her “sweetheart” and was bothered when he defaulted to “girl” though. Even though Levi’s protective, there’s still a concern about some members of his group and whether someone would cross a line with Hailey so she is limited with some of what she’s allowed to do. Even when those restrictions loosen somewhat, the world is still crappy and so are some of the people.
For all the progression, the third act has some conflict and some danger, but has excellent grovel where Levi’s basically on his knees out of fear and regret. I ate that up too. The ending is a short jump ahead of their wedding, but I highly recommend the bonus epilogue that’s available for the author’s newsletter. It’s 5 years further down the road and even more satisfying. Overall, this was a solid read. Some aspects were expected given the author’s other works and sometimes the scenarios the characters find themselves are awkward or uncomfortable. But I enjoyed Hailey and Levi’s growth and this was one of the easiest reads I’ve had recently.
Written in first person, single POV of h. No ow drama, small om drama in the sense of another man covets the h while not having a chance with her. Both are experienced, with only small references of the h’s included (a handful of boyfriends and some positions she was familiar with mentioned).
Some tropes/themes:
☆ Transactional relationship to start
☆ She approaches him
☆ Age gap (H in his 40s and h in her 20s)
☆ Stoic H who’s done bad things and doesn’t think he’s a good man
☆ Somewhat sheltered h who was protected by her father
☆ She's a giggler when she's amused
☆ Unsatisfying sex to figuring out what works for both of them (there's some spanking fyi)
☆ Fast burn for steam, slow burn for emotional connection
☆ Female friendship
☆ Found family
☆ Putting on a show for others
☆ Slow acceptance/growth
Hailey (h) starts the book having just lost her father and facing a terrible choice. She was protected by him in their home as the apocalypse happened and society collapsed, but now she has the awareness to see that she needs a protector. Hailey had seen Boss/Levi (H) some mornings at the edge of her property, seeming to take a moment to relax while looking world-weary. Her father also told her that he prevented the group he runs from certain abuses. So she takes a chance and approaches him with the proposal that he’ll be her protector/man and she’ll exchange whatever she can give him. Levi’s shocked, however he does accept.
Because this starts as transactional, a good bit of their initial encounters are stilted and read as sort of mechanical in nature. The sex isn’t satisfying for Hailey (and she’s ok with that). Besides, she’s existing in a crisis-mode bubble where she’s not completely processed the loss of her father or her change in circumstances. For his part, Levi does show consideration of her and doesn’t press his advantage. He still takes what’s offered, but he’s not a bad man. It’s also hilarious that in all the steamy times that are present, he’s frank about the fact that he’s older and doesn’t have the refractory period of a younger guy or the drive of someone younger if he’s had a long day lol.
Hailey has a large adjustment as part of Levi’s group and with some bumps that occur, she finds her footing and makes connections. Her connection with Levi also deepens through some sweet, funny, and touching moments between them. I liked when he called her “sweetheart” and was bothered when he defaulted to “girl” though. Even though Levi’s protective, there’s still a concern about some members of his group and whether someone would cross a line with Hailey so she is limited with some of what she’s allowed to do. Even when those restrictions loosen somewhat, the world is still crappy and so are some of the people.
For all the progression, the third act has some conflict and some danger, but has excellent grovel where Levi’s basically on his knees out of fear and regret. I ate that up too. The ending is a short jump ahead of their wedding, but I highly recommend the bonus epilogue that’s available for the author’s newsletter. It’s 5 years further down the road and even more satisfying. Overall, this was a solid read. Some aspects were expected given the author’s other works and sometimes the scenarios the characters find themselves are awkward or uncomfortable. But I enjoyed Hailey and Levi’s growth and this was one of the easiest reads I’ve had recently.
September 29, 2025
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ STARS....
📚'𝙼𝚈 𝚁𝙴𝚅𝙸𝙴𝚆 𝙰𝙽𝙳 𝙾𝚃𝙷𝙴𝚁𝚂'📚 can also be found on my blog:
╰┈➤KITTY KATS CRAZY ABOUT BOOKS
☀︎ 𝖳𝖮𝖶𝖤𝖱 ☀︎ Is the first age-gap Post-Apocalyptic Fairy Tale, re-imagining novella of Rapunzel by author Claire Kent. Spoken in dual POV's. Levi (40's) & Hailey (25)
This story is connected to the Kindled Universe which takes place 3 years after Impact.
When I first saw this pop up on Facebook I couldn’t wait to get my hands on it come release day! Beyond excited. Inhaled in no time at all!
The story opens up with Hailey’s overprotected father having just passed away. She was never allowed to leave their four acre property, always sheltered and protected, like Rapunzel up in her tower, but she knew where to avoid the booby traps her father had set up. Life has changed and Hailey knows she needs a man to keep her safe in this dangerous world. Jumping in with both feet she approaches Boss aka Levi with an offer he can't refuse. She had seen him numerous times from her bedroom window. And she needed him to become her new protector, and in exchange she’ll be become his woman. He's the leader of a local biker group who live in a motel within the community nearby.
This was a perfect Sunday lazy day read! I was getting cocooned in those feels and wanted to stay there longer.
Love this world
Love the cover
Love the characters
Love this author
Cannot wait for the next book, Ashes which is inspired by Cinderella.
📚'𝙼𝚈 𝚁𝙴𝚅𝙸𝙴𝚆 𝙰𝙽𝙳 𝙾𝚃𝙷𝙴𝚁𝚂'📚 can also be found on my blog:
╰┈➤KITTY KATS CRAZY ABOUT BOOKS
☀︎ 𝖳𝖮𝖶𝖤𝖱 ☀︎ Is the first age-gap Post-Apocalyptic Fairy Tale, re-imagining novella of Rapunzel by author Claire Kent. Spoken in dual POV's. Levi (40's) & Hailey (25)
This story is connected to the Kindled Universe which takes place 3 years after Impact.
When I first saw this pop up on Facebook I couldn’t wait to get my hands on it come release day! Beyond excited. Inhaled in no time at all!
The story opens up with Hailey’s overprotected father having just passed away. She was never allowed to leave their four acre property, always sheltered and protected, like Rapunzel up in her tower, but she knew where to avoid the booby traps her father had set up. Life has changed and Hailey knows she needs a man to keep her safe in this dangerous world. Jumping in with both feet she approaches Boss aka Levi with an offer he can't refuse. She had seen him numerous times from her bedroom window. And she needed him to become her new protector, and in exchange she’ll be become his woman. He's the leader of a local biker group who live in a motel within the community nearby.
This was a perfect Sunday lazy day read! I was getting cocooned in those feels and wanted to stay there longer.
Love this world
Love the cover
Love the characters
Love this author
Cannot wait for the next book, Ashes which is inspired by Cinderella.
September 2, 2025
A Post-Apocalyptic Fairy Tale, re-imagining Rapunzel. Connected to the Kindled Universe and it takes place 3 years after Impact.
Short Excerpt-
“And do I not get a choice?”
“Of course you get a choice. But why would you refuse? You don’t have a woman, and you haven’t had one since the first year after Impact. This would be the perfect means of solidifying your leadership and squashing all those questions about you not being tough enough to be in charge. After all, you’ll have captured the princess from her tower.”
I planned those words last night, and I can see their effect on his face.
I go on, for the first time experiencing a flicker of hope. “You can order me around, and I’ll act all cowed and submissive. You know it would help you. You wouldn’t always be having to deal with new challenges all the time.”
“So you’d just pretend to be my woman?”
“No, I’d pretend to be submissive. But I’d be your woman for real. I know perfectly well that I’m going to have to offer sex to survive. I’m just choosing who I offer it to.”
Ya'll are gonna FREAK OUT for this couple!
Coming Sept 26th!
*I am the assistant to Noelle Adams/Claire Kent*
Short Excerpt-
“And do I not get a choice?”
“Of course you get a choice. But why would you refuse? You don’t have a woman, and you haven’t had one since the first year after Impact. This would be the perfect means of solidifying your leadership and squashing all those questions about you not being tough enough to be in charge. After all, you’ll have captured the princess from her tower.”
I planned those words last night, and I can see their effect on his face.
I go on, for the first time experiencing a flicker of hope. “You can order me around, and I’ll act all cowed and submissive. You know it would help you. You wouldn’t always be having to deal with new challenges all the time.”
“So you’d just pretend to be my woman?”
“No, I’d pretend to be submissive. But I’d be your woman for real. I know perfectly well that I’m going to have to offer sex to survive. I’m just choosing who I offer it to.”
Ya'll are gonna FREAK OUT for this couple!
Coming Sept 26th!
*I am the assistant to Noelle Adams/Claire Kent*
October 21, 2025
4 Stars
Raw, compelling, and sexy as hell, Tower is a re-imagining of the classic Rapunzel tale and serves as the latest series-starter set in Claire Kent’s ever-expanding dystopian universe.
The story follows a young woman named Hailey, who has been sheltered away, living under her father’s protection, in the years following a devastating global event that has left society in structural ruin. When Hailey’s dad dies suddenly (of natural causes), she must act quickly in this brutal new world, where a woman’s safety and autonomy are up for grabs. Taking matters into her own hands, to retain what control she possibly can, Hailey decides to approach the local gang leader, Levi, offering to trade her body for his protection. It’s a risky choice, but she’s weighed all her options and aligning herself with Levi—a man her father seemed to trust more than most—seems like her best option for survival.
The story then goes on to follow Hailey and Levi over the course of several months, as their initially precarious arrangement turns from necessity to fondness to love. All the while, Hailey learns to adapt to her new environment and builds new emotionally vital relationships with other members of Levi’s ragtag gang of survivors, giving this story a lovely found-family feel which was the cherry on top of an already juicy post-apocalyptic romance story.
To be clear, bad boy Levi may have been a badass ex-con, but he was also a damn good man at heart, who was doing the best he could in dire circumstances, to keep his people safe and thriving in their tough new reality. I never once felt like he was taking advantage of Hailey when she offered herself up to him for protection—if anything, she felt like the one in their relationship dynamic that ultimately held all the power, at all major moments across the story.
I’ve read quite a few books across Kent’s shared dystopian universe at this point, but I feel like Levi was the best of the heroes she’s written to date. His true feelings were apparent in his treatment of Hailey from the moment she approached him with her plan, showing through his actions, time and again, how much he respected, cared, and adored this grieving woman. His gruff but gentle nature was beautiful in its evolution, making him an ideal protector and personal champion, which skyrocketed him up to elite book boyfriend status.
Although set in a shared universe, this particular story reads as standalone (mostly because, timeline wise, it’s set earlier than, say, the long-running Kindled series). I particularly appreciated the universe timeline provided at the end of the book, that allowed me to see exactly where in the universe this was set chronologically. I found this to be a very handy little aide for readers like myself who love knowing exactly how best to tackle interconnected series storytelling in a way that won’t confuse or make me want to run for the hills with overwhelm. I’m not sure if the author also had this reading/chronological order list on her website (I couldn’t find it) but I suggest anyone reading any of these books gives it a look-see to avoid potential confusion.
This story has certainly sparked renewed interest in me to return to earlier stalled series, which, at the time I may have overdosed on, but now feel ready and raring to tackle anew! The direct sequel to this story, Ashes, couldn’t come soon enough.
Raw, compelling, and sexy as hell, Tower is a re-imagining of the classic Rapunzel tale and serves as the latest series-starter set in Claire Kent’s ever-expanding dystopian universe.
The story follows a young woman named Hailey, who has been sheltered away, living under her father’s protection, in the years following a devastating global event that has left society in structural ruin. When Hailey’s dad dies suddenly (of natural causes), she must act quickly in this brutal new world, where a woman’s safety and autonomy are up for grabs. Taking matters into her own hands, to retain what control she possibly can, Hailey decides to approach the local gang leader, Levi, offering to trade her body for his protection. It’s a risky choice, but she’s weighed all her options and aligning herself with Levi—a man her father seemed to trust more than most—seems like her best option for survival.
The story then goes on to follow Hailey and Levi over the course of several months, as their initially precarious arrangement turns from necessity to fondness to love. All the while, Hailey learns to adapt to her new environment and builds new emotionally vital relationships with other members of Levi’s ragtag gang of survivors, giving this story a lovely found-family feel which was the cherry on top of an already juicy post-apocalyptic romance story.
To be clear, bad boy Levi may have been a badass ex-con, but he was also a damn good man at heart, who was doing the best he could in dire circumstances, to keep his people safe and thriving in their tough new reality. I never once felt like he was taking advantage of Hailey when she offered herself up to him for protection—if anything, she felt like the one in their relationship dynamic that ultimately held all the power, at all major moments across the story.
I’ve read quite a few books across Kent’s shared dystopian universe at this point, but I feel like Levi was the best of the heroes she’s written to date. His true feelings were apparent in his treatment of Hailey from the moment she approached him with her plan, showing through his actions, time and again, how much he respected, cared, and adored this grieving woman. His gruff but gentle nature was beautiful in its evolution, making him an ideal protector and personal champion, which skyrocketed him up to elite book boyfriend status.
Although set in a shared universe, this particular story reads as standalone (mostly because, timeline wise, it’s set earlier than, say, the long-running Kindled series). I particularly appreciated the universe timeline provided at the end of the book, that allowed me to see exactly where in the universe this was set chronologically. I found this to be a very handy little aide for readers like myself who love knowing exactly how best to tackle interconnected series storytelling in a way that won’t confuse or make me want to run for the hills with overwhelm. I’m not sure if the author also had this reading/chronological order list on her website (I couldn’t find it) but I suggest anyone reading any of these books gives it a look-see to avoid potential confusion.
This story has certainly sparked renewed interest in me to return to earlier stalled series, which, at the time I may have overdosed on, but now feel ready and raring to tackle anew! The direct sequel to this story, Ashes, couldn’t come soon enough.
September 25, 2025
What an emotional gut punch! I was completely pulled into the raw intensity of this story. The mix of grit, heartbreak, and unexpected tenderness hit me right where it counts.
This hero is everything I love about Kent’s post-apocalyptic men with their rough edges, strength that hides vulnerability, and a loyalty that feels bone deep. The heroine matches him beautifully with resilience and a quiet power, making their connection electric and unforgettable.
This isn’t a light read, but it’s the kind that lingers long after the last page, the kind you feel in your chest. Claire Kent never fails to give me a romance that’s both brutal and beautiful, and Tower might be one of her most haunting yet.
Heroine POV
Safe
Triggers
Steam
This hero is everything I love about Kent’s post-apocalyptic men with their rough edges, strength that hides vulnerability, and a loyalty that feels bone deep. The heroine matches him beautifully with resilience and a quiet power, making their connection electric and unforgettable.
This isn’t a light read, but it’s the kind that lingers long after the last page, the kind you feel in your chest. Claire Kent never fails to give me a romance that’s both brutal and beautiful, and Tower might be one of her most haunting yet.
Heroine POV
Safe
Triggers
Steam
September 6, 2025
Tower is a post apocalyptic romance novella from Claire Kent and part of her new fairy tale retelling collection. I love Claire Kent’s post apocalyptic romances and was so excited about this new fairy tale collection, this one is loosely Rapunzel vibes.
This novella takes place 3 years post Impact and it does exist in her post apocalyptic world (mini Haven character appearance). This is an age gap romance that starts off transactional and of course leads to more. As a novella this worked so well and I loved Hailey and Levi (aka Boss) together. Hailey’s father has just passed away when the story starts and he was definitely overprotective in keeping Hailey locked up at their house so to speak. Now she knows she needs to lean on others/a community for survival so she offers herself up to Levi. He is the leader of a local former biker group (pre-Impact days) who still are living as a community together nearby. Levi and his crew were locals that her father traded with in the past and Hailey doesn’t see her other options as great choices.
I really enjoyed all the characters in this one and Hailey and Levi too. Most Claire Kent heroes are gruff and broody and Levi didn’t feel that way as much which was refreshing and fun to see. This read quickly because it’s on the shorter side but it felt like a full-length story at the same time. I loved seeing these two fall for one another, the caretaking, learning about their pasts/family lives, the lite praise kink, the side characters, and just two people trying to survive and finding real companionship together. I’m excited for what other fairy tale retellings this series will bring and I’m just always down for a new Claire Kent to read.
I received an ARC, all thoughts in this review are my own.
This novella takes place 3 years post Impact and it does exist in her post apocalyptic world (mini Haven character appearance). This is an age gap romance that starts off transactional and of course leads to more. As a novella this worked so well and I loved Hailey and Levi (aka Boss) together. Hailey’s father has just passed away when the story starts and he was definitely overprotective in keeping Hailey locked up at their house so to speak. Now she knows she needs to lean on others/a community for survival so she offers herself up to Levi. He is the leader of a local former biker group (pre-Impact days) who still are living as a community together nearby. Levi and his crew were locals that her father traded with in the past and Hailey doesn’t see her other options as great choices.
I really enjoyed all the characters in this one and Hailey and Levi too. Most Claire Kent heroes are gruff and broody and Levi didn’t feel that way as much which was refreshing and fun to see. This read quickly because it’s on the shorter side but it felt like a full-length story at the same time. I loved seeing these two fall for one another, the caretaking, learning about their pasts/family lives, the lite praise kink, the side characters, and just two people trying to survive and finding real companionship together. I’m excited for what other fairy tale retellings this series will bring and I’m just always down for a new Claire Kent to read.
I received an ARC, all thoughts in this review are my own.
October 15, 2025
4.5 🌟 loved it! the fairytale twist to this classic Claire Kent dystopian romance was the perfect touch 👸🏼
October 19, 2025
It isn’t nothing new! This story is fast and forgettable.
Unfortunately.
Unfortunately.
November 26, 2025
3 Stars
Opinion Breakdown
The Good: The world, the premise, and the grumpy/sunshine dynamic.
The Not-So-Good: The lack of development of feelings past sex.
The Bad: The length.
Overall: I really enjoy Ms. Kent's writing style and post apocalyptic world so I keep coming back to her. I just wish she'd make the stories longer!! I keep on hoping for another Last Light (https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...) which was full length and had great relationship development and closure. I feel like under 200 pages just simply isn't enough. It feels like just smut at that point because there isn't enough time to truly develop the relationship. I enjoyed it for what it was, but what it was is 3 "just okay" stars.
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Hailey and Levi's story. It's in a post apocalyptic world and Hailey's dad just died unexpectedly and she knows that in order to survive, she needs a man. The pickings are slim but she knows that in order to survive, the leader of a motorcycle gang nearby, Levi, is her best option. She propositions him and he agrees to help her out in exchange for some clout from capturing the "princess" that his gang all knows about. There are some sexy times, some suspenseful moments, and some sweet scenes...and they get a HFN ending.
Point Of View (POV): This was told in Hailey's POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Good, but I needed it to be longer to have more substance.
Instalove: No, they take a while to develop stronger feelings
H (Hero) rating: 3.5 stars. Levi. I liked him and how he allowed himself to be vulnerable with the h.
h (heroine) rating: 3 stars. Hailey. I liked how she understood what she needed to do and followed through.
Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed
Push/Pull: No
Heat level: Good. They have some good tension, chemistry, and scenes -- and so much that I did feel like it kind of takes away from the story/plot, but that could be due to the length.
Descriptive sex: Yes
OW (Other Woman)/OM (Other Man) drama: No
Sex scene with OW or OM: No
Cheating: No
Separation: No
Possible Triggers: Yes
Closure: This ends in a good place that I would call a HFN ending but others might be fine calling it a HEA ending . There is an option to sign up for the author's newsletter to get an extended epilogue.
Safety: This one should be Safe for most safety gang readers
Opinion Breakdown
The Good: The world, the premise, and the grumpy/sunshine dynamic.
The Not-So-Good: The lack of development of feelings past sex.
The Bad: The length.
Overall: I really enjoy Ms. Kent's writing style and post apocalyptic world so I keep coming back to her. I just wish she'd make the stories longer!! I keep on hoping for another Last Light (https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...) which was full length and had great relationship development and closure. I feel like under 200 pages just simply isn't enough. It feels like just smut at that point because there isn't enough time to truly develop the relationship. I enjoyed it for what it was, but what it was is 3 "just okay" stars.
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Hailey and Levi's story. It's in a post apocalyptic world and Hailey's dad just died unexpectedly and she knows that in order to survive, she needs a man. The pickings are slim but she knows that in order to survive, the leader of a motorcycle gang nearby, Levi, is her best option. She propositions him and he agrees to help her out in exchange for some clout from capturing the "princess" that his gang all knows about. There are some sexy times, some suspenseful moments, and some sweet scenes...and they get a HFN ending.
Point Of View (POV): This was told in Hailey's POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Good, but I needed it to be longer to have more substance.
Instalove: No, they take a while to develop stronger feelings
H (Hero) rating: 3.5 stars. Levi. I liked him and how he allowed himself to be vulnerable with the h.
h (heroine) rating: 3 stars. Hailey. I liked how she understood what she needed to do and followed through.
Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed
Push/Pull: No
Heat level: Good. They have some good tension, chemistry, and scenes -- and so much that I did feel like it kind of takes away from the story/plot, but that could be due to the length.
Descriptive sex: Yes
OW (Other Woman)/OM (Other Man) drama: No
Sex scene with OW or OM: No
Cheating: No
Separation: No
Possible Triggers: Yes
Closure: This ends in a good place that I would call a HFN ending but others might be fine calling it a HEA ending . There is an option to sign up for the author's newsletter to get an extended epilogue.
Safety: This one should be Safe for most safety gang readers
November 24, 2025
4.5 stars
I love getting back into the Kindled world. You don't have to read any of the previous Kindled books to enjoy this one.
I loved the 'Rapunzel' elements to the story. I thought it was well done without being so on-the-nose. Hailey's character was so unapologetically girly and Levi is fine with it. He never tries to change her. They had such a great dynamic and even though it was transactional, he never was cruel to her. They had some really funny moments together that had me laughing out loud. They are one of my favorite couples in this world. They balanced and understood each other so well.
I loved this story and cannot wait to read from this series.
Thank you Claire Kent for the ARC!
I love getting back into the Kindled world. You don't have to read any of the previous Kindled books to enjoy this one.
I loved the 'Rapunzel' elements to the story. I thought it was well done without being so on-the-nose. Hailey's character was so unapologetically girly and Levi is fine with it. He never tries to change her. They had such a great dynamic and even though it was transactional, he never was cruel to her. They had some really funny moments together that had me laughing out loud. They are one of my favorite couples in this world. They balanced and understood each other so well.
I loved this story and cannot wait to read from this series.
Thank you Claire Kent for the ARC!
December 1, 2025
Update: Just went to read my review of Claire Kent’s Devotion because I thought that I had liked it and it’s literally the same thing I said here in this review word for word 😂 I am going to pause on buying CK’s books after this one!
If you like heroines who serve heroes, you will enjoy this. Nothing about this really tickles my fancy or floats my boat. After the heroine’s father passes suddenly, she needs to find the next man to protect her in the post-apocalyptic world. She chooses the hero, leader of a biker gang.
It’s a big trad-wife fantasy where the heroine feels pleasure to serve him, from plating his food and toasting the bread so it’s better than everyone else’s to offering foot rubs for him. And that whole scene where she convinces him that he never forced her and it was all her choice… like yes she did choose him, but it was the best out of a bad lot. She’s acting like this is an empowered choice and while she did have to go out into the world to strike up this bargain, but it still requires her to fall subservient to a man’s physical needs, and to play the submissive act in public.
If you are my mutual, you know Idgaf about power dynamics but this just rubbed me the wrong way because it was so surface-level that it felt like patriarchal propaganda of isn’t it nice to live your life for a man? Isn’t it fulfilling to serve him, give him foot rubs, and put his needs first? (If he was offering me first bite of that apple, I would have taken it!!)
Like seriously don’t pmo with this shit 😂 The hero is literally just there, treating her with basic consideration, and the heroine is like awed. Not being cruel or violent is actually a low bar to clear, people!!
I’ve read a few novels by Claire Kent now and while they can be readable, nothing has compared to Hold in terms of chemistry, plot action, and also character psychology and growth.
If you like heroines who serve heroes, you will enjoy this. Nothing about this really tickles my fancy or floats my boat. After the heroine’s father passes suddenly, she needs to find the next man to protect her in the post-apocalyptic world. She chooses the hero, leader of a biker gang.
It’s a big trad-wife fantasy where the heroine feels pleasure to serve him, from plating his food and toasting the bread so it’s better than everyone else’s to offering foot rubs for him. And that whole scene where she convinces him that he never forced her and it was all her choice… like yes she did choose him, but it was the best out of a bad lot. She’s acting like this is an empowered choice and while she did have to go out into the world to strike up this bargain, but it still requires her to fall subservient to a man’s physical needs, and to play the submissive act in public.
If you are my mutual, you know Idgaf about power dynamics but this just rubbed me the wrong way because it was so surface-level that it felt like patriarchal propaganda of isn’t it nice to live your life for a man? Isn’t it fulfilling to serve him, give him foot rubs, and put his needs first? (If he was offering me first bite of that apple, I would have taken it!!)
Like seriously don’t pmo with this shit 😂 The hero is literally just there, treating her with basic consideration, and the heroine is like awed. Not being cruel or violent is actually a low bar to clear, people!!
I’ve read a few novels by Claire Kent now and while they can be readable, nothing has compared to Hold in terms of chemistry, plot action, and also character psychology and growth.
January 8, 2026
You know what, I changed my mind again. I'll do a small review.
I think I'm mad at this book.
I've only read two books from this author, and I felt like I read the same one? The other one was Brood. I didn't like it, so I thought, maybe I started with the wrong one. But this one disappointed me soooooo much. Did I choose the wrong book, again, or is this author not for me?
Also, why is the FMC massaging his smelly-not-so-smelly feet? I get that she has to act submissive in front of the other, but in private? I didn't mind the power imbalance at first, but that didn't last long. Even their relationship felt so shallow, I didn't care about it. Like I didn't care about the MCs. He's just 'old' and grumpy, she's just submissive and weak without a man in this universe.
I'll give one last chance to this author and that's it.
I think I'm mad at this book.
I've only read two books from this author, and I felt like I read the same one? The other one was Brood. I didn't like it, so I thought, maybe I started with the wrong one. But this one disappointed me soooooo much. Did I choose the wrong book, again, or is this author not for me?
Also, why is the FMC massaging his smelly-not-so-smelly feet? I get that she has to act submissive in front of the other, but in private? I didn't mind the power imbalance at first, but that didn't last long. Even their relationship felt so shallow, I didn't care about it. Like I didn't care about the MCs. He's just 'old' and grumpy, she's just submissive and weak without a man in this universe.
I'll give one last chance to this author and that's it.
November 16, 2025
Great start to the series. It was a practical start to the relationship but I enjoyed how things progressed. There was a little drama in the end but oh Levi's proclamations 👏👏. Enjoyed this very much.
September 7, 2025
I.am.a.simp.for.Claire.Kent
Tower is the perfect balance of sweet and spicy with just a little bit of action at the end. Great introduction to her post apocalyptics series, if you just wanna have a taste of what it’s all about.
Tower is a romance book set in a post apocalyptic world 4 years after impact.
Hailey father has just died, she relied on him for protection is a world where women are at risk of rape and danger every day. She decides to offer herself to a local guy named “boss” in exchange for protection.
Was truly distraught after I finished all the books in the kindled series, so I am so happy to see more books come out in this world.
Thank you for an e-arc. All my thought are my Own.
Tower is the perfect balance of sweet and spicy with just a little bit of action at the end. Great introduction to her post apocalyptics series, if you just wanna have a taste of what it’s all about.
Tower is a romance book set in a post apocalyptic world 4 years after impact.
Hailey father has just died, she relied on him for protection is a world where women are at risk of rape and danger every day. She decides to offer herself to a local guy named “boss” in exchange for protection.
Was truly distraught after I finished all the books in the kindled series, so I am so happy to see more books come out in this world.
Thank you for an e-arc. All my thought are my Own.
September 6, 2025
“Tower” by Claire Kent
4⭐️/5⭐️
3🌶/5🌶
“I’ve never felt so safe. So cared for. So protected. So loved.”
It’s simple, if Claire Kent writes a dystopian romance, I’m going to read it. “Tower” is the newest installment in the ‘world’ of the Kindled series. It’s adjacent, not necessary to read to understand the overarching plot within the series, but offers a lot of world building and even a surprise appearance from past MCs. It’s a pretty short novella, ~150 pages, and despite being tangentially related, I highly recommend reading this story.
“Tower” takes place three years after Impact, and this time we’re in southern Indiana (nice to have a new perspective on the world these characters live in!). Hailey has lived an isolated life with her father, who always sheltered and protected her. Once he passes away, Hailey makes the decision to approach the toughest man in the community with an offer he can’t refuse: be her new protector, and in exchange she’ll be his woman, however that looks to his community. Levi has a checkered past, but he’s trying to do better. When Hailey makes this offer, it’s an opportunity for him to show his strength and solidify himself as a leader.
Hailey and Levi have some great natural chemistry, and I’m not just talking in the bedroom. These two characters become genuine friends, and maybe it’s because Hailey is a little bit older than the average FMC (26 years old), but she’s very logical and straightforward. The conversations she has with Levi are blunt, not harsh, but they serve a purpose. I really enjoyed all of their interactions behind closed doors, laughing together, simply talking about their respective pasts. So many times in romance books we see the MCs bond, and maybe they were friends before, but to see how Haily and Levi become partners through their situations, that felt very authentic.
I loved reading about a new community, seeing a new type of dynamic rise out of the post-apocalyptic world these characters now live in. Usually these stories take place in the Appalachian region, or the Ozarks, so being in Indiana was a nice change. I also loved seeing past MCs in a scene; I won’t say who they are! That’s a spoiler you’ll have to read for yourself.
All-in-all, this is another wonderful addition to the world Claire Kent has created with the Kindled series. I’d read another one hundred stories about characters like Hailey and Levi, because they’re all so unique. Their backgrounds and circumstances affect the decisions they make, the relationships they develop, and every single time I’m hooked.
4⭐️/5⭐️
3🌶/5🌶
“I’ve never felt so safe. So cared for. So protected. So loved.”
It’s simple, if Claire Kent writes a dystopian romance, I’m going to read it. “Tower” is the newest installment in the ‘world’ of the Kindled series. It’s adjacent, not necessary to read to understand the overarching plot within the series, but offers a lot of world building and even a surprise appearance from past MCs. It’s a pretty short novella, ~150 pages, and despite being tangentially related, I highly recommend reading this story.
“Tower” takes place three years after Impact, and this time we’re in southern Indiana (nice to have a new perspective on the world these characters live in!). Hailey has lived an isolated life with her father, who always sheltered and protected her. Once he passes away, Hailey makes the decision to approach the toughest man in the community with an offer he can’t refuse: be her new protector, and in exchange she’ll be his woman, however that looks to his community. Levi has a checkered past, but he’s trying to do better. When Hailey makes this offer, it’s an opportunity for him to show his strength and solidify himself as a leader.
Hailey and Levi have some great natural chemistry, and I’m not just talking in the bedroom. These two characters become genuine friends, and maybe it’s because Hailey is a little bit older than the average FMC (26 years old), but she’s very logical and straightforward. The conversations she has with Levi are blunt, not harsh, but they serve a purpose. I really enjoyed all of their interactions behind closed doors, laughing together, simply talking about their respective pasts. So many times in romance books we see the MCs bond, and maybe they were friends before, but to see how Haily and Levi become partners through their situations, that felt very authentic.
I loved reading about a new community, seeing a new type of dynamic rise out of the post-apocalyptic world these characters now live in. Usually these stories take place in the Appalachian region, or the Ozarks, so being in Indiana was a nice change. I also loved seeing past MCs in a scene; I won’t say who they are! That’s a spoiler you’ll have to read for yourself.
All-in-all, this is another wonderful addition to the world Claire Kent has created with the Kindled series. I’d read another one hundred stories about characters like Hailey and Levi, because they’re all so unique. Their backgrounds and circumstances affect the decisions they make, the relationships they develop, and every single time I’m hooked.
September 26, 2025
-=- 3.5 stars -=-
I'm so in love with this world, it's not even funny. This was such a nice addition, and I wanted more so badly 😭 I can't wait for the rest of the novellas (the next one being Cinderella-themed has me so excited).
I'm so in love with this world, it's not even funny. This was such a nice addition, and I wanted more so badly 😭 I can't wait for the rest of the novellas (the next one being Cinderella-themed has me so excited).
September 9, 2025
Tower is a Rapunzel inspired novella set in three years post-Impact in the Kindled universe. Hailey has been kept inside her house, "a princess locked in a tower" since impact, now both her parents are dead. She initiates a bargain with Levi, the boss of a local gang - her family's possessions and her body for protection. She gets to choose her fate, and she chooses him. "Make your life easier. Whatever that looks like."
Even though Hailey is the one who instigated their deal, and they are both benefiting from it (apart from the obvious, he also cements his leader status by bringing her home like a trophy), Levi is a Kent hero through and through. That means he's taciturn, feels the weight of his obligations, and is both gone for his lady and worried that their unequal start has colored what develops. Hailey is a Kent girlie seen through a slight prism, she's slightly older than most, and kind of feisty. I love her little brain, she asks for instruction, and is annoyed when she gets it. She sasses back when she shouldn't. She's also caretaking and freely affectionate, we see the value she brings to the whole community of the gang, not just Levi. What is new here, is the shared communication and vulnerability they both show, and the matching of energy. Anytime one of them makes an overture, the other meets it. It's lovely.
Listen, if Devotion has no fans, know that I am dead, I really liked that book, particularly the repetition of the sex act/act of service and how it moved the emotional and character evolution. I know some people are of the "woo that was a lot" school, but I see the work the intimacy was doing, to a point where none of it felt gratuitous to me. I felt like this novella was very much in conversation with Devotion with the clear work intimacy does on page.
The intimacy and emotion and vulnerability is very closely linked in Tower. Kent has a very clever use of time jumps here, and every scene that's on page, she shows us how the relationship as a whole levels up. We go from transactional and "was that good enough" to long sessions of mutual service and care, of "I'll do anything' for you. You know already know that" where there is vulnerability and declarations as a part of physical intimacy. There's a private thing that Levi does, and charting the asking and refusing, offering and declining, and eventual sharing of it echoes their physical and emotional joining.
Only Claire Kent would be, oh I'm not feeling creative and productive, so I'm going to right quick publish a series of novellas inspired by classic fairy tales set in my beloved Kindled universe. This felt looser and more light-hearted than most Kindled books, possibly because the characters were basically safe and supplied, and it was relatively early days since Impact. Levi and Hailey have an affectionate and communicative relationship, there is an age and power gap, but they feel so well suited for each other that it all equalizes. I thought it was a delight to read.
Thank you to the author for an arc.
Even though Hailey is the one who instigated their deal, and they are both benefiting from it (apart from the obvious, he also cements his leader status by bringing her home like a trophy), Levi is a Kent hero through and through. That means he's taciturn, feels the weight of his obligations, and is both gone for his lady and worried that their unequal start has colored what develops. Hailey is a Kent girlie seen through a slight prism, she's slightly older than most, and kind of feisty. I love her little brain, she asks for instruction, and is annoyed when she gets it. She sasses back when she shouldn't. She's also caretaking and freely affectionate, we see the value she brings to the whole community of the gang, not just Levi. What is new here, is the shared communication and vulnerability they both show, and the matching of energy. Anytime one of them makes an overture, the other meets it. It's lovely.
Listen, if Devotion has no fans, know that I am dead, I really liked that book, particularly the repetition of the sex act/act of service and how it moved the emotional and character evolution. I know some people are of the "woo that was a lot" school, but I see the work the intimacy was doing, to a point where none of it felt gratuitous to me. I felt like this novella was very much in conversation with Devotion with the clear work intimacy does on page.
The intimacy and emotion and vulnerability is very closely linked in Tower. Kent has a very clever use of time jumps here, and every scene that's on page, she shows us how the relationship as a whole levels up. We go from transactional and "was that good enough" to long sessions of mutual service and care, of "I'll do anything' for you. You know already know that" where there is vulnerability and declarations as a part of physical intimacy. There's a private thing that Levi does, and charting the asking and refusing, offering and declining, and eventual sharing of it echoes their physical and emotional joining.
Only Claire Kent would be, oh I'm not feeling creative and productive, so I'm going to right quick publish a series of novellas inspired by classic fairy tales set in my beloved Kindled universe. This felt looser and more light-hearted than most Kindled books, possibly because the characters were basically safe and supplied, and it was relatively early days since Impact. Levi and Hailey have an affectionate and communicative relationship, there is an age and power gap, but they feel so well suited for each other that it all equalizes. I thought it was a delight to read.
Thank you to the author for an arc.
September 29, 2025
i really try to overlook how unappealing claire kent describes her heroes, if anything ive come to find it an endearing quirk of her writing. but sometimes she makes it so hard when she goes on about their long beards and their buttcracks and their stinky feet. like pls god almighty let me rest 😭😭 i did love the faith and jackson cameo tho ugh i loved their book
September 27, 2025
I liked this but didn’t love it. Perhaps it was the short-length or how their relationship begins. I wished we could’ve had the H’s POV.
November 30, 2025
A spicy romance novella set three years after an asteroid impact devastated earth. Set in the dystopian world Ms Kent has created. Easy to read and understand. It stars a silver fox hero and I liked the H/h's interaction and the back story. 3.5 stars.
September 27, 2025
We start this story on one of the most painful times of Hailey's life. Her father has just passed. Her protector, and the one person standing between her and the outside world.
Hailey has a plan, though, to "hitch" herself to the Boss. A man respected and feared in their area. He'll keep her safe in this world known after the Empact.
I understand Hailey's decision. Media protrays after an apocalypse to be a horrible time for women. But the Boss is different than Hailey expected. In some ways, at least.
This is a short novel, so we don't spend too much time on the world, but from what we're told, it's very hard. Boss and Hailey's relationship flourishes in different ways. There's definitely a somewhat power imbalance, but it's interesting how it plays out.
Annnnd spicy too!
Hailey has a plan, though, to "hitch" herself to the Boss. A man respected and feared in their area. He'll keep her safe in this world known after the Empact.
I understand Hailey's decision. Media protrays after an apocalypse to be a horrible time for women. But the Boss is different than Hailey expected. In some ways, at least.
This is a short novel, so we don't spend too much time on the world, but from what we're told, it's very hard. Boss and Hailey's relationship flourishes in different ways. There's definitely a somewhat power imbalance, but it's interesting how it plays out.
Annnnd spicy too!
October 9, 2025
I honestly hope that Claire Kent writes these post-apocalyptic romance stories forever. I don’t know what it is about them but it has something to do with them striking the exact right tone. I’ve read a lot of different post-apocalyptic romances because I absolutely love the genre, but no one hits the tone I’m looking for as well as Claire Kent. There’s always an element of sweetness to the romance, and sometimes sadness as well, combined with the fact that the world the characters are living in is full of peril. Plus, I love strong silent heroes, and a lot of her male protagonists are pretty stoic. So I loved this one just as I love all of them, and I hope Claire Kent literally never leaves this world.
September 7, 2025
If you’re a fan of Claire Kent’s Lost Light/Kindled series, this book has all the best ingredients! Hailey and Levi’s post-Impact age-gap relationship develops from transactional to something more.
One thing that I love about Claire Kent’s work is she’s so good at getting your buy in at every step. Hailey needs Levi to protect her? Of course. Levi needs to look like the big tough Boss he is? Makes sense. In every book, she drops you into a plot that would feel improbable in isolation but you’re totally along for the ride.
I was curious how the post-apocalyptic fairy tales would read - I don’t loooove fairy tale retellings. But, never fear! Of course Claire Kent pulls it off. While the story references Rapunzel and is somewhat structured around its big thematic ideas, it’s not a detailed beat by beat retelling. Phew!
Very little on page violence here, but if you’ve been triggered by the Lost Light/Kindled series, I encourage you to check out the TWs on Claire Kent’s website before you read.
Getting a Claire Kent ARC is such a dream - thank you! I can’t wait to read the next installment!
One thing that I love about Claire Kent’s work is she’s so good at getting your buy in at every step. Hailey needs Levi to protect her? Of course. Levi needs to look like the big tough Boss he is? Makes sense. In every book, she drops you into a plot that would feel improbable in isolation but you’re totally along for the ride.
I was curious how the post-apocalyptic fairy tales would read - I don’t loooove fairy tale retellings. But, never fear! Of course Claire Kent pulls it off. While the story references Rapunzel and is somewhat structured around its big thematic ideas, it’s not a detailed beat by beat retelling. Phew!
Very little on page violence here, but if you’ve been triggered by the Lost Light/Kindled series, I encourage you to check out the TWs on Claire Kent’s website before you read.
Getting a Claire Kent ARC is such a dream - thank you! I can’t wait to read the next installment!
September 2, 2025
4⭐️
My second claire kent book and I am absolutely in awe of her writing. I read them so quickly and with such an ease.
In the beginning the connection seems transactional and mysterious but the way everything unfolds and they open up to each other is absolutely awe-strucking.
The MMC of this book was perfect. He was protective, caring and had that "silently-brooding but making sure no one harms the fmc" characteristics.
The whole found family aspect was heartwarming. Hailey finding friends and finally experiencing the kind of freedom she deserves.
I am not much of a smutty reader and I tend to avoid them but claire kent just calls to me.
Thankyou to the author for the ARC. I look forward to more books by you.
"It might have been a tasteless pretense—it definitely was—but I made Levi laugh in a way I doubt he’s laughed since Impact. I have zero regrets."
My second claire kent book and I am absolutely in awe of her writing. I read them so quickly and with such an ease.
In the beginning the connection seems transactional and mysterious but the way everything unfolds and they open up to each other is absolutely awe-strucking.
The MMC of this book was perfect. He was protective, caring and had that "silently-brooding but making sure no one harms the fmc" characteristics.
The whole found family aspect was heartwarming. Hailey finding friends and finally experiencing the kind of freedom she deserves.
I am not much of a smutty reader and I tend to avoid them but claire kent just calls to me.
Thankyou to the author for the ARC. I look forward to more books by you.
"It might have been a tasteless pretense—it definitely was—but I made Levi laugh in a way I doubt he’s laughed since Impact. I have zero regrets."
October 23, 2025
Tower is the first instalment in the Post-Apocalyptic Fairy Tales series by Clare Kent.
Hailey finds herself alone in a barren world after her father suddenly dies. The same father who kept her locked within the confines of their home whilst the world ended. Hailey knows she has no survival skills, and she knows she no longer has protection against the violent men who believe that women are fair game in the apocalypse. She decides to take her chances and offer a proposition to 'The Boss', the leader of the local gang. Hailey would become his 'woman' in exchange for protection from the cruelty of what is left in society.
Tower is apart of a wider universe of books, but can easily be read as a standalone. I have heard great things about Claire Kent's books, but didn't really know where or when to start. I needed a break from the longer novels I have been slugging through lately, and needed something short and engaging as a palate cleanser, so I figured Tower was a great pick when it showed up on my Kindle Unlimited.
This is very much a Rapunzel retelling, but in high-stakes society that has no morals. The FMC, Hailey, offers the MMC, Levi, an offer that he can't really refuse. I usually hate when FMCs throw themselves at MMCs and expects them to protect her, but in this case, it was needed and worked well. Levi has obviously done bad things as the leader or a gang, but he doesn't take advantage of Hailey in ways that some of the men in the story would.
In the beginning, it seems as though Hailey is solely running on adrenaline, the smut comes thick and fast, and interactions between the two are awkward. However, as she begins to grieve her father and the life that she was robbed of. This allows her to open up to Levi, and eventually form a genuine relationship with him. The chemistry between the pair is done well, and I enjoyed their relationship.
I'm not a big fan of age gap romances, but I still enjoyed this book regardless. I would definitely recommend this if you're looking for something short and sweet to add to your TBR.
Hailey finds herself alone in a barren world after her father suddenly dies. The same father who kept her locked within the confines of their home whilst the world ended. Hailey knows she has no survival skills, and she knows she no longer has protection against the violent men who believe that women are fair game in the apocalypse. She decides to take her chances and offer a proposition to 'The Boss', the leader of the local gang. Hailey would become his 'woman' in exchange for protection from the cruelty of what is left in society.
Tower is apart of a wider universe of books, but can easily be read as a standalone. I have heard great things about Claire Kent's books, but didn't really know where or when to start. I needed a break from the longer novels I have been slugging through lately, and needed something short and engaging as a palate cleanser, so I figured Tower was a great pick when it showed up on my Kindle Unlimited.
This is very much a Rapunzel retelling, but in high-stakes society that has no morals. The FMC, Hailey, offers the MMC, Levi, an offer that he can't really refuse. I usually hate when FMCs throw themselves at MMCs and expects them to protect her, but in this case, it was needed and worked well. Levi has obviously done bad things as the leader or a gang, but he doesn't take advantage of Hailey in ways that some of the men in the story would.
In the beginning, it seems as though Hailey is solely running on adrenaline, the smut comes thick and fast, and interactions between the two are awkward. However, as she begins to grieve her father and the life that she was robbed of. This allows her to open up to Levi, and eventually form a genuine relationship with him. The chemistry between the pair is done well, and I enjoyed their relationship.
I'm not a big fan of age gap romances, but I still enjoyed this book regardless. I would definitely recommend this if you're looking for something short and sweet to add to your TBR.
October 23, 2025
Beautiful cover and lovely story!
I love the post apocalypse love Claire Kent built over the years and love how she makes her MMC so authentic: sweet/ gentle yet they can give it hard to the FMC when the circumstances get difficult!
Had the pleasure to add this novella to my 2025 Bingo Challenge for a book starting with letter "T"
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September 30, 2025
If you are familiar with Claire Kent's post-apocalyptic romance series Kindled, this is a standalone set in that world. The tropes and writing style should be familiar to you too. It's quick, it's no-nonsense, it's hot, and the brief cameo of Faith and Jackson - thank you. This one ticks all the boxes and knocks the formula out of the park.
The feminist in me is always doing summersaults when Claire Kent gives me age-gaps, power imbalances, male protector romance novellas. But somehow this weird take on a 1950's housewife role turned erotica works and I love it. Plus her men always end up on their knees begging. In this one, literally.
The feminist in me is always doing summersaults when Claire Kent gives me age-gaps, power imbalances, male protector romance novellas. But somehow this weird take on a 1950's housewife role turned erotica works and I love it. Plus her men always end up on their knees begging. In this one, literally.
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