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The Risk of Loving You: When Danger Meets Desire
Sixty-year-old Frederick “Rick” Thompson has spent a lifetime drifting from one situationship to another, always with younger women, while building the nation’s premier—and only—Black-owned motorcycle customization company alongside his brother. But everything changes when a chance weekend trip introduces him to a captivating woman who makes him question everything he thought he wanted. Just as he’s ready to trade his player ways for a future filled with love, a betrayal close to home threatens the legacy he and his brother built. Can Rick save the business he’s devoted his life to, or will he lose it all just as he’s found the one he wants to share it with?
Dr. Karen Ali, a retired school superintendent, had what many would call a picture-perfect 35 years of marriage, two thriving children, and a respected place in the community. But after her husband’s sudden death, she’s spent the last few years learning how to live—and love this new version of herself. But during a weekend girls’ trip, one unexpected encounter with a handsome stranger awakens something she thought was gone forever. But with new passion comes danger. Could the universe truly grant two soulmates in one lifetime? Is she willing to risk her hard-earned peace for a second chance at soul-stirring love?
A sizzling, mature romance about second chances, soul connections, and the courage to love again—no matter the cost.
Dr. Karen Ali, a retired school superintendent, had what many would call a picture-perfect 35 years of marriage, two thriving children, and a respected place in the community. But after her husband’s sudden death, she’s spent the last few years learning how to live—and love this new version of herself. But during a weekend girls’ trip, one unexpected encounter with a handsome stranger awakens something she thought was gone forever. But with new passion comes danger. Could the universe truly grant two soulmates in one lifetime? Is she willing to risk her hard-earned peace for a second chance at soul-stirring love?
A sizzling, mature romance about second chances, soul connections, and the courage to love again—no matter the cost.
- GenresRomance
161 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 11, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
December 20, 2025
🥰
Love a grown and beautiful story! Both characters were mature, communicated well, and understood that love had no timeline. Karen was a widow, living her best life when Rick swept into her world. I liked Rick a lot; he was such a good man, who was content with casually dating and flings. Karen put that grown woman ish on him; who says you can’t teach an old dog new tricks! 😏
Love a grown and beautiful story! Both characters were mature, communicated well, and understood that love had no timeline. Karen was a widow, living her best life when Rick swept into her world. I liked Rick a lot; he was such a good man, who was content with casually dating and flings. Karen put that grown woman ish on him; who says you can’t teach an old dog new tricks! 😏
October 1, 2025
First read by this author, and I really loved it. Mature, grown, and sexy adults finding love is where it's at!! ❤️
Rick thought he was living his best life dating younger women, with no strings attached. That women his own age were bitter, and set in their ways, turned him off. But when he laid eyes on Karen all bets were off.
Karen, who is slowly coming into her own after dealing with a crushing blow, is finally ready to live again. When she sees Rick, feelings begin to stir up that she hasn’t felt in years, and she becomes hopeful.
These two were locked in from that first night. They were both financially stable, career driven, with grown children, just wanting to enjoy this second chapter of their lives.
Then here comes the ish! But Karen in holding her man down, intervened with big guns to assist. Thank God for that too, cause it was right on time. Rick did not play about Doc and was ready to burn Birmingham to the ground! 🤯🤬 Great read! 👍🏾👍🏾👍🏾
Rick thought he was living his best life dating younger women, with no strings attached. That women his own age were bitter, and set in their ways, turned him off. But when he laid eyes on Karen all bets were off.
Karen, who is slowly coming into her own after dealing with a crushing blow, is finally ready to live again. When she sees Rick, feelings begin to stir up that she hasn’t felt in years, and she becomes hopeful.
These two were locked in from that first night. They were both financially stable, career driven, with grown children, just wanting to enjoy this second chapter of their lives.
Then here comes the ish! But Karen in holding her man down, intervened with big guns to assist. Thank God for that too, cause it was right on time. Rick did not play about Doc and was ready to burn Birmingham to the ground! 🤯🤬 Great read! 👍🏾👍🏾👍🏾
September 29, 2025
The Risk of Loving You: When Danger Meets Desire
I so enjoyed this book. Especially since it was about grown and sexy folks in my age group. Yes Hunni, we still know how to love and be loved.
60 didn't owe Rick nothing. The man is smart, fine, sexy, and successful. When he saw Karen sitting in the restaurant looking like the Goddess she is, he knew she was his one. And the way she handled Yasmin, baby you better take notes young sisters. Karen was grace and fire. She "Lil girl" her like nobody's business.
And to think Rick and Mike gave Bam a chance, but he sold them out like it was nothing. You can't help everyone.
Anyway, this book was very good. It's my first time reading this author and she did not disappoint. I look forward to reading more books by her.
I so enjoyed this book. Especially since it was about grown and sexy folks in my age group. Yes Hunni, we still know how to love and be loved.
60 didn't owe Rick nothing. The man is smart, fine, sexy, and successful. When he saw Karen sitting in the restaurant looking like the Goddess she is, he knew she was his one. And the way she handled Yasmin, baby you better take notes young sisters. Karen was grace and fire. She "Lil girl" her like nobody's business.
And to think Rick and Mike gave Bam a chance, but he sold them out like it was nothing. You can't help everyone.
Anyway, this book was very good. It's my first time reading this author and she did not disappoint. I look forward to reading more books by her.
September 27, 2025
I enjoyed this mature couples love story and the mystery was good too.
September 24, 2025
Great read! Love the development of the character and the second chance love story. Karen was true to get grief and her mental health. Great job!
January 15, 2026
Where do I start with this review🥰! First of all, this is one of the sexiest book covers I’ve ever seen.
I love a mature second chance romance. I borrowed this book from Kindle unlimited and about 3 chapters in, I bought because I knew I would want to reread again & again and chile I have.
Dr. Karen Ali aka Doc is grown ass woman at 57, she’s stated that from the get go. She lost her husband, partner, father of her children, and love of her life after 37 years together. He was a judge and she’s now a college professor in addition to being a successful author. Mr. Frederick Thompson the third aka Rick is a successful, educated business owner at 60 who likes to date younger women. When you meet him his latest companion is 38. On a trip to Atlanta those 2 souls collide and it’s undeniable chemistry from time the first time they lay eyes on each other across a hotel lobby.
My favorite parts:
1. Their first meeting and kiss
2. Rick calling his brother about Doc maybe bring the ONE
3. Rickey meeting Doc
4. The families meeting each other
5. TOP Fav-Doc gathering Yasmin immature behind while buying her lunch.
This is just a wonderful romance with a mystery thrown in. What Bam was doing with these honest business owners legacy they are building for their heirs was inexcusable and such a betrayal after they gave him a chance to do honest work. Bam owed at debt and then got greedy. But Bam and Lo didn’t realize Doc has connections to one of the biggest underground sort of king pins. I love when Rick was like you know Big G personally wow. It shows that you can still be friends with someone even if you decide to have different paths. Big G is her husband‘s childhood friend.
You also get a second romance brewing with Rick’s son, Rickey and Karen’s daughter Aaliyah. When they meet at the family dinner, the chemistry between those two is also instant and undeniable.
Start your 2026 reading journey off right with this book.
I love a mature second chance romance. I borrowed this book from Kindle unlimited and about 3 chapters in, I bought because I knew I would want to reread again & again and chile I have.
Dr. Karen Ali aka Doc is grown ass woman at 57, she’s stated that from the get go. She lost her husband, partner, father of her children, and love of her life after 37 years together. He was a judge and she’s now a college professor in addition to being a successful author. Mr. Frederick Thompson the third aka Rick is a successful, educated business owner at 60 who likes to date younger women. When you meet him his latest companion is 38. On a trip to Atlanta those 2 souls collide and it’s undeniable chemistry from time the first time they lay eyes on each other across a hotel lobby.
My favorite parts:
1. Their first meeting and kiss
2. Rick calling his brother about Doc maybe bring the ONE
3. Rickey meeting Doc
4. The families meeting each other
5. TOP Fav-Doc gathering Yasmin immature behind while buying her lunch.
This is just a wonderful romance with a mystery thrown in. What Bam was doing with these honest business owners legacy they are building for their heirs was inexcusable and such a betrayal after they gave him a chance to do honest work. Bam owed at debt and then got greedy. But Bam and Lo didn’t realize Doc has connections to one of the biggest underground sort of king pins. I love when Rick was like you know Big G personally wow. It shows that you can still be friends with someone even if you decide to have different paths. Big G is her husband‘s childhood friend.
You also get a second romance brewing with Rick’s son, Rickey and Karen’s daughter Aaliyah. When they meet at the family dinner, the chemistry between those two is also instant and undeniable.
Start your 2026 reading journey off right with this book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 22, 2025
Not sure if this author has other books but she’s a new to me author & I really enjoyed it. A mature read of a couple over 50 that fall for each other & try to navigate being in each others world. I loved how Rick was very intentional from the first day he laid eyes on Karen & came correct. And I absolutely loved Karen down. She was assertive but still soft when she needed to be, direct, & took care of herself but didn’t close herself off from good things happening to her even after grief. I loved the scene when she talked to Yasmine & how she handled that entire situation. Also there is an event at the end of the book (I don’t want to spoil it) that was written so beautifully I read it twice lol. I hope others read this book it was very good and I can’t wait to see more of that what this author has up her sleeve.
April 22, 2026
Grown & Sexy!!
If you love a good old fashioned love story like I do, you definitely wanna check this one out for sure. I found it to be a quick and easy read, but it stayed with me long after I finished the last page. It is full of heart, warmth, and that kind of emotion that had me smiling, swooning, and all up in my feelings. I felt completely pulled into the story and really connected to the characters, like I was right there going through it all with them.
And as a fun bonus, I loved how the author wove in music from the 80s and 90s throughout the story. She even included a playlist in the acknowledgments, which I thought was such a nice touch. While reading, whenever I came across an old school song, I literally had Siri playing it in the moment just to set the vibe. I am a big fan of that era of music, so this made the whole reading experience even more enjoyable for me.
This mature love storyline resonated with me on so many levels. I loved how it showed that passion does not fade with age, it actually grows deeper, richer, and more meaningful. The second chance theme felt so real to me, and it reminded me that love can show up at any time and completely change everything when you least expect it. That is something the romantic in me will always root for every single time. There is just something about that grown and sexy kind of love that hits different.
For me, this was a feel good, soul stirring read with the perfect mix of sweetness, tension, and real emotion. I believed in the characters, I felt their connection, and I was fully invested in their journey the whole way through. It had me thinking about love, timing, and having the courage to try again. I highly recommend this book, especially if you enjoy strong characters, deep connections, and love stories that prove it is never too late for something truly special.
If you love a good old fashioned love story like I do, you definitely wanna check this one out for sure. I found it to be a quick and easy read, but it stayed with me long after I finished the last page. It is full of heart, warmth, and that kind of emotion that had me smiling, swooning, and all up in my feelings. I felt completely pulled into the story and really connected to the characters, like I was right there going through it all with them.
And as a fun bonus, I loved how the author wove in music from the 80s and 90s throughout the story. She even included a playlist in the acknowledgments, which I thought was such a nice touch. While reading, whenever I came across an old school song, I literally had Siri playing it in the moment just to set the vibe. I am a big fan of that era of music, so this made the whole reading experience even more enjoyable for me.
This mature love storyline resonated with me on so many levels. I loved how it showed that passion does not fade with age, it actually grows deeper, richer, and more meaningful. The second chance theme felt so real to me, and it reminded me that love can show up at any time and completely change everything when you least expect it. That is something the romantic in me will always root for every single time. There is just something about that grown and sexy kind of love that hits different.
For me, this was a feel good, soul stirring read with the perfect mix of sweetness, tension, and real emotion. I believed in the characters, I felt their connection, and I was fully invested in their journey the whole way through. It had me thinking about love, timing, and having the courage to try again. I highly recommend this book, especially if you enjoy strong characters, deep connections, and love stories that prove it is never too late for something truly special.
February 14, 2026
Perfect Valentines Day read ❤️🩹🥰
I was attracted to this book because of the fantastic cover art first. Then I read the description. I love romance, I loved the music play list of the book. Karen and Rick are seasoned by life and age. Doc, the MFC’s nickname was a strong character with strong conviction and loyalty to her friends, children and the man Drew that she lost. Rick knew a gem when he saw one across a hotel. I like how she handled the tough situations especially helping someone she wasn’t obligated to help and was willing to receive a message from beyond about her future not to be left alone and lonely for the rest of her life. All the characters in the book had an innate goodness. I will definitely read other books by this author; she handles the intimate moments of the book in a honest sophisticated manner. Special shout out to Dee.
I was attracted to this book because of the fantastic cover art first. Then I read the description. I love romance, I loved the music play list of the book. Karen and Rick are seasoned by life and age. Doc, the MFC’s nickname was a strong character with strong conviction and loyalty to her friends, children and the man Drew that she lost. Rick knew a gem when he saw one across a hotel. I like how she handled the tough situations especially helping someone she wasn’t obligated to help and was willing to receive a message from beyond about her future not to be left alone and lonely for the rest of her life. All the characters in the book had an innate goodness. I will definitely read other books by this author; she handles the intimate moments of the book in a honest sophisticated manner. Special shout out to Dee.
January 9, 2026
Loved it
I was admittedly a little wary when I decided to read this, simply because of the 'danger' part and I thought I wanted something a little more breezy. I'm glad I went on and read it because I loved it, pretty much from start to finish. Even with the heavy parts, I was so sucked in that I finished this in less than a day. Was foolishly trying to read as I drove. I loved Karen's strength and especially how she handled Yasmine, I loved Rick and how intentional he was, Mike was hilarious, was thankful for Gee, I even enjoyed the unexpected POVs. Well-written and not bogged down with unnecessary fluff, which was awesome.
This was my first read from this author and she definitely has a new fan in me.
I was admittedly a little wary when I decided to read this, simply because of the 'danger' part and I thought I wanted something a little more breezy. I'm glad I went on and read it because I loved it, pretty much from start to finish. Even with the heavy parts, I was so sucked in that I finished this in less than a day. Was foolishly trying to read as I drove. I loved Karen's strength and especially how she handled Yasmine, I loved Rick and how intentional he was, Mike was hilarious, was thankful for Gee, I even enjoyed the unexpected POVs. Well-written and not bogged down with unnecessary fluff, which was awesome.
This was my first read from this author and she definitely has a new fan in me.
April 2, 2026
Loved every page💖❤️🔥🔥
this is my first time reading this authors work an I was not disappointed. As a 70 plus romantic at heart I truly enjoyed every page of this book. Doc and Rick were truly a match made in heaven. ☺️
It’s not often that I run across a great read where the main characters are people of a “Big age” smile. The characters and situations were very relatable.I hope I can find more books that deal with more lead characters such as these.
Thanks Dana Dari for such an enjoyable read💖
this is my first time reading this authors work an I was not disappointed. As a 70 plus romantic at heart I truly enjoyed every page of this book. Doc and Rick were truly a match made in heaven. ☺️
It’s not often that I run across a great read where the main characters are people of a “Big age” smile. The characters and situations were very relatable.I hope I can find more books that deal with more lead characters such as these.
Thanks Dana Dari for such an enjoyable read💖
April 2, 2026
Loved the book
I loved the fact this book related to seasoned people. Not often is the focus on older people. I did miss steamy intense times in the book. It felt like is was just the topping. I did like the story and definitely how the interaction between the new love and past love encountered each other. That was a true example of a real woman and definitely does not happen in most books. Hopefully the intimate scenes get more juicy if possible and more information interaction with other characters. This is just my opinion. I would definitely recommend.
I loved the fact this book related to seasoned people. Not often is the focus on older people. I did miss steamy intense times in the book. It felt like is was just the topping. I did like the story and definitely how the interaction between the new love and past love encountered each other. That was a true example of a real woman and definitely does not happen in most books. Hopefully the intimate scenes get more juicy if possible and more information interaction with other characters. This is just my opinion. I would definitely recommend.
January 18, 2026
Bravo Boomer Bravo‼️
Bravo, Ms. Bari bravo 👏🏽 👏🏿👏🏾👏🏽 💐‼️Finally, (my literary dreams manifested😊)… an Author, book, storyline & characters from my generation of AA urban middle class professional hustlers Both Karen & Rick (& friends) were realistic reflections of an average Baby Boomer’s life: academics, family, careers, hobbies & or robust lifestyle achievements etc. 🤩🤭‼️ “The Risk of Loving You: When Danger Meet Desire” was an excellent all encompassing read 🥰‼️
Bravo, Ms. Bari bravo 👏🏽 👏🏿👏🏾👏🏽 💐‼️Finally, (my literary dreams manifested😊)… an Author, book, storyline & characters from my generation of AA urban middle class professional hustlers Both Karen & Rick (& friends) were realistic reflections of an average Baby Boomer’s life: academics, family, careers, hobbies & or robust lifestyle achievements etc. 🤩🤭‼️ “The Risk of Loving You: When Danger Meet Desire” was an excellent all encompassing read 🥰‼️
September 16, 2025
This book was very captivating. The author was very descriptive when speaking through the characters that made me see and feel as if I was there. The story of love that develops between the two main characters offers hope that love can still be found later in life as they are in their 50s & 60s. Brilliant writing. Bravo. Easy read, I couldn't put it down. Would definitely recommend!
November 20, 2025
Second Bloom: Find Love after 55
Rick and Karen was such a beautiful read. I aim to be as graceful as Karen was in my 50s. They way their kids loved on them, but had their own lives. Once you reach a certain age the communication, thoughtfulness, and experience with love seems different. Got this book during BRAE and so glad I did.
Rick and Karen was such a beautiful read. I aim to be as graceful as Karen was in my 50s. They way their kids loved on them, but had their own lives. Once you reach a certain age the communication, thoughtfulness, and experience with love seems different. Got this book during BRAE and so glad I did.
December 3, 2025
I really enjoyed this story of love lost and a second chance to find it again with someone new . I love how Karen conducted herself as a grown women with the confidence and pride to not settle for just any man but the right one . I love how Rick was not playing about his pursuit of this lady . all in God's perfect timing . a lil danger ain't hurt nobody right ... ? 💯 love this book
January 14, 2026
Grown. Sexy. Mature.
This is that grown & sexy love. Rick & Karen was so good for one another. A woman finding true love after grief & a man finding love with a woman his age. Their families blended so well together.
A little chaos but nothing Gee couldn’t help the brothers out with. I can’t prove it but I just know Gee is fine 😮💨
This is that grown & sexy love. Rick & Karen was so good for one another. A woman finding true love after grief & a man finding love with a woman his age. Their families blended so well together.
A little chaos but nothing Gee couldn’t help the brothers out with. I can’t prove it but I just know Gee is fine 😮💨
March 21, 2026
Pager Turner…
This was such a good book. I couldn't put it down, so I ended up reading it in one day. I love how the author describes each character. I loved the book's maturity. I loved reading the vulnerability each character displayed, and they did so at the right moments. This is a true, mature, second-chance romance.
This was such a good book. I couldn't put it down, so I ended up reading it in one day. I love how the author describes each character. I loved the book's maturity. I loved reading the vulnerability each character displayed, and they did so at the right moments. This is a true, mature, second-chance romance.
March 21, 2026
Loved it , Loved it, Loved it !! I started reading it Friday night late fell asleep and got back in Saturday morning. The Way Rick did Yasmine needs to be studied, lol. The sex scenes are incredible!! My main man is now GEE baby I’ve put Shaft in the shelf.
Thank You Dana Bari o truly enjoyed this book.
Cheri Simmons
Go On Girl Chapter South Carolina 2
Thank You Dana Bari o truly enjoyed this book.
Cheri Simmons
Go On Girl Chapter South Carolina 2
April 5, 2026
Excellent Love Story
Outstandingly written. The story flowed, had some suspense and drama along with a lot of love. The characters are believable and endearing. There is nothing quite as sexy as a man who knows what he wants and goes after it. Love the book and am looking for more books written by this author
Outstandingly written. The story flowed, had some suspense and drama along with a lot of love. The characters are believable and endearing. There is nothing quite as sexy as a man who knows what he wants and goes after it. Love the book and am looking for more books written by this author
April 14, 2026
unexpected
First time reading this author but it won’t be the last. The story was unexpected but just what I needed….HOPE. I wasn’t expecting to enjoy the story as Much as I did. Being from Birmingham…it really felt like I know them. They’re a Couple I could hang out with or admire from afar. Gee needs A Good
Woman and I’m here For the job 🫣
First time reading this author but it won’t be the last. The story was unexpected but just what I needed….HOPE. I wasn’t expecting to enjoy the story as Much as I did. Being from Birmingham…it really felt like I know them. They’re a Couple I could hang out with or admire from afar. Gee needs A Good
Woman and I’m here For the job 🫣
November 8, 2025
For Everything There Is A Season
What a superb tale of mature love! Karen and Rick’s journey to second love was heartwarming and authentic. Loved the nod to spirituality. Here’s hoping to read more from this author.
What a superb tale of mature love! Karen and Rick’s journey to second love was heartwarming and authentic. Loved the nod to spirituality. Here’s hoping to read more from this author.
January 4, 2026
Beautifully written!
Wow!
I truly enjoyed this book. So many things included that drew me in.
Love after 50, is a serious topic and Author Dana Bari crafted this story beautifully! 💖
Wow!
I truly enjoyed this book. So many things included that drew me in.
Love after 50, is a serious topic and Author Dana Bari crafted this story beautifully! 💖
January 24, 2026
A must read
This Book was So Grown and Sexy... I enjoyed the mature relationship and Karen she is the women we should all strive to be... Rick was a real one, I love Love this book...have to purchase a physical copy... 🙌🏾 Yes You did that.
This Book was So Grown and Sexy... I enjoyed the mature relationship and Karen she is the women we should all strive to be... Rick was a real one, I love Love this book...have to purchase a physical copy... 🙌🏾 Yes You did that.
February 16, 2026
Simply Marvelous!!!
What a very special mature story!! It was a warm, endearing, sexy, nail biting love story!! I was there at every twist and turn!! Therefore I truly loved this book!!!And I’m looking forward to Mz. Dana Bari’s next book!!
What a very special mature story!! It was a warm, endearing, sexy, nail biting love story!! I was there at every twist and turn!! Therefore I truly loved this book!!!And I’m looking forward to Mz. Dana Bari’s next book!!
February 25, 2026
Lovely story on mature love
This book was a sweet lovely but still steamy look at the romance between 2 mature people. Throughly enjoyed the development of the chracters' love story and the insertion of drama. A must read
This book was a sweet lovely but still steamy look at the romance between 2 mature people. Throughly enjoyed the development of the chracters' love story and the insertion of drama. A must read
March 10, 2026
Seasoned Love.
This was definitely a refreshing change. Great plot, well written and character growth. The steamy, seasoned romance between Rick & Karen was well worth the read.
This was definitely a refreshing change. Great plot, well written and character growth. The steamy, seasoned romance between Rick & Karen was well worth the read.
March 17, 2026
So Good!
I loved that this was a second chance story. I also loved that the main characters were more mature! I smiled so much reading this beautiful story! This was a good one do yourself a favor and enjoy it!
I loved that this was a second chance story. I also loved that the main characters were more mature! I smiled so much reading this beautiful story! This was a good one do yourself a favor and enjoy it!
April 1, 2026
Loved this book!
This story was so good!! It was so refreshing to read a book from a seasoned couple!!! Rick and Karen were the epitome of couple goals!! I enjoyed this book from page one on tl the music playlist!!
This story was so good!! It was so refreshing to read a book from a seasoned couple!!! Rick and Karen were the epitome of couple goals!! I enjoyed this book from page one on tl the music playlist!!
April 2, 2026
For mature audience!
Such a good read about mature adults loving one another after losing a loved one. This was a new to me author and this was well done. Good story with enough romance action to keep it interesting.
Such a good read about mature adults loving one another after losing a loved one. This was a new to me author and this was well done. Good story with enough romance action to keep it interesting.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews