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Running Free: Mayhem Makers

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One free spirit. One wandering man. And their journey for answers.

Keeping to myself is how I roll.
I'm not about to get embroiled in all the drama and chaos this club endures.
Training with the club's enforcer keeps me busy and on my toes,
And always on guard.
I know how to read a room and access all situations,
Keeping my composure and calming the others.

But when I meet Halo,
A wandering man,
I'm drawn to him in ways I never expected.
No part of me can resist him.
His quiet demeanor with his fascinating intelligence hooks me from the start.
My sisters at the club think otherwise.
Suspicious of him, they're all on guard,
Creating friction among us.

And when my twin sister goes missing without a trace,
Right before the MMM25 signing,
The wandering man is their prime suspect,
Yet, I know better.
His name may be Halo, and he's certainly no saint.
Will he prove once and for all that he's my guardian angel?

173 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 21, 2025

5 people are currently reading
10 people want to read

About the author

D.M. Earl

47 books369 followers
USA Today Bestselling author, D. M. Earl creates authentic and genuine characters while spinning stories that feel so real and relatable that the readers plunge deep within the plot, begging for more. Complete with drama, angst, romance, and passion, the stories jump off the page.

When Earl, an avid reader since childhood, isn't at her keyboard pouring her heart into her work, you'll find her in Northwest Indiana snuggling up to her husband, the love of her life, with her seven fur babies nearby. Her other passions include gardening and shockingly cruising around town on the back of her 2004 Harley. She's a woman of many talents and interests. Earl appreciates each and every reader who has ever given her a chance--and hopes to connect on social media with all of her readers.

For the latest news and updates on books and upcoming releases, you can subscribe to my newsletter: https://www.subscribepage.com/dmearln...

Also you can stay in touch by visiting:
http://www.dmearl.com/follow-me/

Email
dmearl@dmearl.com

Passion, angst, and drama: Earl's your girl.

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5 stars
36 (78%)
4 stars
9 (19%)
3 stars
1 (2%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
Profile Image for Wendy Livingstone.
20k reviews255 followers
November 22, 2025
This is the third book in this amazing series, and this is Storm / Dottie and Halo’s story.
Halo was a POW who is now a wandering man, while dealing with everything he endured. Storm is drawn to Halo, but could he be her guardian angel?
This is a well written action-packed story, which has found family, friendships, emotions, drama, chaos, heartbreak, free spirited / wandering man, opposites attract, healing, undeniable chemistry, and love, which leads to an entertaining, twisted, and unpredictable, addictive page tuner.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
Profile Image for Jean M.
413 reviews8 followers
November 13, 2025
Another emotional rollercoaster that sees a relationship build between Storm and Halo. It’s complicated as both have their own terrors to overcome. Storm, given name of Dottie along with her twin sister Dani have made their home with the Devils Handmaidens having run away from their parents and the abusive commune they were being brought up in.
Halo, a wounded veteran who had been taken hostage and tortured prior to being rescued and then discharged from the services; whilst still broken and he turns up at the Sanctuary for help.
All in all a great big jumble of emotions and traumas for them to overcome. The empathy that the characters have, understanding each other’s sufferings without it needed to be spelt out brought a few tears to my eye.
A gripping read that had me invested from beginning to end.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Doris.
3,591 reviews138 followers
November 21, 2025
Storm and Halo

Storm/Dottie and her sister Dani have been through so much growing up within a cult that when they get a chance to join the Devils Handmaidens MC it was a step in the right direction trying to heal from their past. Halo was a POW and is now dealing with everything that happened to him. He ends up at the Sanctuary and people are suspicious of him but its Storm who sees beneath what others can’t see. When Storm’s sister Dani disappears all eyes to turn Halo.

There was a pull between Storm and Halo that had me rooting for them even with me feeling like there are many unanswered questions.
115 reviews3 followers
November 24, 2025
This is the third book in the Mayhem Makers Running series and it delivers on all levels mixing blood family with created family, both human and animal survivors, and civilians along with ex-military. It is jam packed with action, suspense, danger, and love. If you only read one more book between now and the end of the year, this should be the one.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Clayr Catherall.
1,606 reviews98 followers
November 21, 2025
Another top notch book by this author. I’m never disappointed when reading any of her stories.

Dottie (Storm) and Benji’s (Halo) book took me through a whirlwind of emotions. It was heartbreaking what both of these characters have been through. Neither one of them has had an easy ride and their story isn’t plain sailing.

This being a spin-off series, gave me more to read about my favourite characters from previous books, plus all new characters. But you don’t need to have read other books to enjoy it. I highly recommend it if you like MC Romance, but make sure you check out all trigger warnings.
958 reviews6 followers
November 22, 2025
I loved how perfect for each other Dottie and Halo were. Fate really seemed to be looking out for them when they were thrust into each other's paths. But there is a lot of crazy stuff going on in the background to keep track of. Danger and suspense seemingly at every turn and some crazy psychotic people to deal with. Eek I still get the creeps thinking bout those people- but some intriguing people were secretly fighting the good fight in that scenario and hopefully D.M. will give them some HEAs in the future like she did Dottie and Halo.
Profile Image for Hayley West.
97 reviews
November 23, 2025
I love every book D.M.Earl writes, she puts everything into her books.
This series is amazing and this one didn’t disappoint, the characters and storyline are fab.
I loved how perfect Dottie and Halo was for each other.
It’s one emotional rollercoaster from start to finish, so many twists and turns.
I loved it I couldn’t put it down, and I can’t wait to read the next book in this series.
Profile Image for Sue.
4,339 reviews5 followers
November 3, 2025
So sad what the twins go through and Halo has his own demons. There's action, A rescue and a HEA for now. Hope to hear more since this left me hanging.
Profile Image for Sandy S.
8,232 reviews207 followers
November 20, 2025
3.75stars- RUNNING FREE is the third instalment in DM Earl’s contemporary, adult RUNNING dark, MC series, a spin off set in the author’s DEVIL’S HANDMAIDENS series, a part of the multi-authored Mayhem Makers world which originally focused on the fictional Motorcycles, Mobsters and Mayhem author’s book signing blending fact with fiction as many of the participating authors in the series have cameos including DM Earl. .This is Dottie aka Storm, and Benji aka Halo’s story line. RUNNING FREE can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary.

NOTE: Due to the nature of the story line premise, there WILL BE triggers for more sensitive readers.

Told from several first person perspectives including Storm, Dani, Halo, Heartbreaker, and Glory, RUNNING FREE follows in the aftermath of the arrival of our story line hero. Benjamin ‘Halo’ Dawson is a former Delta Force soldier but three years of torture, as a POW in the Middle East has left Halo a shell of his former self. Seeking shelter with the Blue Sky Sanctuary, n Timber-Wolf Montana, Halo finds himself surrounded by several members of the Devil’s Handmaidens MC and Grimm Wolves MC including our story line heroine. Dottie, along with her twin sister Dani, were previously rescued from a religious cult, and found themselves prospecting for the Devil’s Handmaidens MC but the arrival of Halo brings with it demons from the past, demons that are determined to reclaim Storm and her twin.

The world building focuses on the return of the Thunder Cloud Knuck Brotherhood, an organization that is dangerous and evil who run a human trafficking ring. In the wake of Halo’s arrival, so too do the demons from the past, as Dani and Dottie, once again must outrun the people determined to destroy their lives, taking aim at the man with whom Storm will fall in love.

The relationship between Storm and Halo begins as a friendship as Halo struggles to let go of the past. Scarred both inside and out, Halo battles to trust, his worthiness, as well as his attraction to a woman who has a target on her back. There are no $ex scenes.

There is a large ensemble cast of colorful, familiar and determined secondary and supporting characters from several of the author’s interconnected MC series. We are introduced to Dani and Dottie’s extended family: Noah, Matty, Esther, Dr. Mal and Dr. Cora. The requisite evil has many faces.

RUNNING FREE is a fast paced, quick read focusing on power and control, betrayal and vengeance, family and relationships, acceptance and forgiveness. The character driven premise is dark and dramatic; the characters are edgy and desperate; there is limited romance as Halo struggles to heal. RUNNING FREE ends on a happily ever atter -for now. The overall conflict has yet to be resolved.

Copy supplied for review
Profile Image for Pam.
1,702 reviews16 followers
November 21, 2025
4.5 Stars

This is the third installment of the Mayhem Makers spin off series for D.M. Earl. In this installment it's Dottie's (Storm) turn to have everything flipped upside down. This can be read as a standalone story, any back information is well shared.

Dottie and her twin Dani found their way to the Devil's Handmaidens after escaping their home in an abusive religious cult situation. Understanding all to well what the women and children that the Devil's work so hard to help, they were an easy fit. Dottie and Dani have both thrived in this new life they have found but as Dottie has been watching her sisters find love and more, it has had her thinking. Though she is not certain she is healed and worthy just yet.

Benji (Halo) has come to Montana in search of the Blue Sky Sanctuary and all it has to offer an ex-military, POW like himself. Benji has been scarred both inside and out with his time as a POW only to find himself tossed once he returned. His levels of trust and belief in people is about as low as it can possibly be. When he arrives at the Sanctuary it is a bit of an unwelcome start for a few minutes, but the dark haired beauty saw through him from the very beginning. Willing to give him someone on his side.

In time as Benji works to deal with his demons, he and Dottie find a friendship that was certainly unexpected. As both struggle with issues of the past, it is slow going as their relationship forms. When unwanted visitors and troubles find themselves on Dottie and Dani's door, Benji is quick to use his training and step in to help and be their for them.

Though I thoroughly enjoyed what I read, I was really hoping for more of Dottie and Benji. These characters drew me in but they feel unfinished to me. There was a lot to unpack with the suspense portion of the story that also feels left unanswered.

*** Advanced copy provided in exchange for an honest review. ***
Profile Image for Angels.
2,025 reviews17 followers
November 19, 2025
Storm, also known as Dottie, and her twin sister Dani escaped an abusive commune to join the Devils Handmaidens. Halo, a wounded veteran, is seeking refuge at the Sanctuary after being rescued from captivity and discharged from the military. , becomes entangled in an ongoing plot involving enemies of the club committing crimes against humanity.

Storm and Halo navigate a complex relationship amidst their personal struggles, filled with emotional turmoil and trauma. Their slow-burning romance blossoms into something special, creating a touching and beautiful bond between them.

The deep connection between Storm and Halo is evident from the start, as they gravitate towards each other with a profound understanding of the pain and demons they carry within. Their journey together is moving and heartfelt, showcasing their resilience and growth as individuals.

The characters, including favorites like Shadow, are well-developed and relatable, evoking empathy for their struggles and triumphs. Halo's journey to trust and open up is portrayed with authenticity, highlighting the challenges faced by veterans reintegrating into civilian life.

This installment in the ongoing series of the Devils Handmaidens Club continues to deliver a compelling narrative, showcasing the club's mission to provide solace and support for survivors of trauma. The story is engaging and emotional, striking a balance between moments of laughter and tears.

Overall, this gripping tale captivates the reader with its heartfelt portrayal of love, resilience, and healing, making it a must-read for fans of the series.
Profile Image for Grinning Cat.
3,606 reviews120 followers
November 22, 2025
Running Free
I like D.M. Earl’s Devil’s Handmaidens books, and this miniseries in the multi-author Mayhem Makers series has me hooked.
The women of the club are dedicated to helping others, particularly trafficking victims. Each club member has a very distinct personality and has layers upon layers, and a backstory. These stories are pretty hardcore and sometimes difficult to read about. This particular story contains more TRIGGERS than an NRA swap meet, including RELIGIOUS ABUSE, SA, TRAFFICKING, TORTURE, PTSD, VIOLENCE, LANGUAGE, and INAPPROPRIATE NONCONSENSUAL RELATIONS BETWEEN FAMILY MEMBERS. Like I said, hardcore stuff.
Halo (aka Benji) was in the military and now has PTSD, but he and Dottie (aka Storm, but almost nobody calls her that) have a deep connection that was almost immediate. Speaking of connections, Dottie has a twin named Dani, and the two of them were abused by a religious cult with a connection to the Brotherhood (enemies of the MC who are doomsday preppers and traffickers). The past has a way of popping up when you least expect it, and it gets ugly up in there. I’m not going to give spoilers, but it’s epic and everyone has a part to play.
I love the sense of FOUND FAMILY among the clubs, and I like the characters. This was a really good book.
Other TROPES include DYSFUNCTIONAL FAMILY FTW, WONDER TWIN POWERS ACTIVATE, SISTERS DOING IT FOR THEMSELVES, SLOW BURN, and FORMER MILITARY.
NO HEAT. Just GENTLE KISSES.
Book has NO CHEATING.
448 reviews5 followers
December 2, 2025
This women’s biker club romance is a strong, well-written installment—but it’s not the easiest entry point if you’re new to the interconnected series. While it can be read as a standalone, the opening feels confusing without prior knowledge of the earlier books. The worldbuilding and character relationships clearly lean on what happened before, so it takes a bit of extra effort to fully settle into the story.

Once you do, though, the emotional depth becomes the driving force. The characters carry heavy baggage, and the themes explored can be intense and potentially triggering. This isn’t a light, breezy weekend read—it’s the kind of book that demands time and emotional space. The tension is constant, the stakes feel real, and the author doesn’t shy away from difficult moments.

Despite the heaviness, it’s a well-crafted story with solid character development. If you’re looking for a romance that goes deeper than surface-level thrills and you enjoy gritty, emotionally charged biker romances, this one is definitely worth picking up.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Patricia Howard.
640 reviews
October 31, 2025
Malachi and Ruby are the strength that everyone has to survive. Ruby (Kitty), might have some mental hang-ups but that only shows that she is human. At least that is what Malachi says.
Malachi, is always trying to put forth a different standard because he has money and that is all anyone wants from him.

Their relationship starts like every other relationship, a chance meeting at a book signing. Nothing is said about the money until its a must know type of situation. Ruby however, doesn't understand why Malachi doesn't want a debutant, who does want the money. Ruby has never had the life that Malachi has had and it scares her.

After Ruby learns some lessons in control, to handle her anxiety, which in returns helps her with her relationship with Malachi. There is an HEA for them. I loved the way that this book was written. The characters and plot of the story work very well together.
Profile Image for Dana Garland.
128 reviews
November 10, 2025
Running Free: Mayhem Makers is a standalone spinoff of the Devil’s Handmaidens MC Series. This book brings all the emotions. Dottie and Dani have been through hell and found an escape. They found their home and family with the Devil’s Handmaidens. They protect one another at all cost. When Halo arrives, Dottie feels a sudden connection…a connection she isn’t even sure how to explain. When they find themselves under attack, Halo jumps in to protect the club. When Dani is taken, the eyes go to Halo as the new guy. Can they trust that he isn’t to blame? Can they find Dani before it is too late? Will the connection between Halo and Dottie withstand the attack? This book does have trigger warnings that are very appropriate. Parts are hard to read. It is an amazing book that I highly recommend. I can’t wait to jump in and read the Devil’s Handmaiden’s MC Series. Great Job D.M. Earl!
Profile Image for Sophie Ruthven.
2,318 reviews146 followers
November 21, 2025
This one conflicted me as I really wanted to give it all the stars but the ending to me personally felt abrupt with no real answers to multiple storylines throughout the book.
It's a crying shame as it the glimpses that we got of the storylines were epic and will have you wishing we learnt more.
I know the author likes to sometimes cover things over multiple books but again for me personally I felt a lot was left unsaid that was relevant to THIS book. And her characters as always are special so deserved to have all their story told.
Trust me I hate always being honest with ratings, especially when I did love what was given.
Those new to this author will love as they have yet to read her at her best.
No matter what I said above this author will always have a reader in me.

956 reviews4 followers
November 26, 2025
Wow, this book sends you on an emotional rollercoaster and concentrates on Dottie (Storm) and Benji (Halo). They both have significant scars from their past with Dottie and Benji forming a real connection and Dottie helping Benji cope with his trauma. When Dottie and her twin sister, Dani's, past comes back to haunt them, they discover what the Devil's Handmaidens and Benji will do to protect the ones they love and care for as they rally to rescue Dani and Duchess from what could be a fate worse than death. This book has all that you would expect from D.M. Earl and more. Fast-paced and full of drama and action, with a great storyline and characters, this deserves more than five stars and I look forward to reading more by this talented author.
Profile Image for Ann L.
4,786 reviews39 followers
November 21, 2025
Storm is a quiet person and usually keeps her heart protected because of her past, she meets Halo, a soft-spoken wanderer and feels deeply connected to him from the start. Her club doesn’t trust him and tensions rise especially when her twin sister, Dani, vanishes, he’s suddenly blamed.

Watching them trying to get around suspicion, fear, and the intense pull between them made me root for them even harder. Their bond feels emotional, hopeful, and worth fighting for, making this story a fabulous read.
Profile Image for Christine Woinich.
2,774 reviews26 followers
November 22, 2025
I found this hard to put down except I needed to sleep. I loved Storm and Halo. Their connection was a quick, allowing Halo to accept others back into his life. There was plenty of action, violence, secrets, and surprises. Dottie's past came back and disrupted everything. The pace was quick, the story engrossing, and I actually loved the fact that these two did not jump right into bed with each other despite their attraction. I look forward to more in this series.

I received an ARC, and this is my unsolicited review.
Profile Image for ObsessiveReader.
1,308 reviews
November 26, 2025
The story starts off with a bang with Storm and Halo's first meeting. Both have trauma in their past, although Halo's was more recent. The begin with a friendship that slowly progresses into more. Things never go easy for the club and this story was no different. Halo steps up when danger comes to Storm's door.

I still get a chuckle how the author inserts herself into the story as a mystery writer writing about their club.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
13 reviews
November 25, 2025
If there was ever a character I could relate to, it would be Kitty. Her story with Malachi was one that tugs at the heart strings. I literally couldn't put that book down. Reading about the "struggles" with rich boy, poor girl were rough. I was right there cheering them through dealing with their issues. I fell in love with this MC group. What a bunch of badass ladies. I'm going to have to go and read this series now.
4,959 reviews27 followers
December 1, 2025
Dottie/Storm and her twin, Dani found a new home with the Devil's Handmaidens after escaping the abusive cult they were raised in. She meets Benji/Halo who traveled to Montana to maybe get help at the Blue Sky Sanctuary, that helps former military. The pair have a feeling of trust from the beginning. They both have issues to deal with, a friendship blossoms, slowing burning into something more.

They both deserve something good after the road they have traveled.
Profile Image for Danee.
4,896 reviews
December 5, 2025
We're drawn into the lives of Dottie/Storn and her sister Dani. They're on the run from the cult where they grew up and were abused. On their escape, they join the Mayhem Makers after meeting Halo. You're glued to their retelling, and I had a hard time putting the book down. Can they get a second chance at the love they both so desperately deserve, despite everything they've been through?










I received an Advance Reader copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Michelle Roberts.
950 reviews2 followers
December 6, 2025
The things these characters go thru are truly painful and scary. He just wants to find a way to live in his new world. She sees him and it just felt right to befriend him. What no one expects is for her and sisters past to show up. When her sisters life is in jeopardy they circle the wagons. I look forward to reading more about these characters.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Mimirureviewbooks.
2,196 reviews
October 30, 2025
Running Free is book 3 in the Mayhem Makers (Running Series) written by the amazing author D.M. Earl. This is Dottie aka "Storm" and Benji aka "Halo" heartfelt and emotional depth, can’t-put-it-down story. WOW! I loved everything about this book, is such a perfect MC romance that had me swooning, laughing and crying. I didn’t want it to end.

10/10 read for me and I loved every minute of it!!!
Profile Image for GKP2460 .
4,238 reviews71 followers
November 21, 2025
Running Free is book 1 in the Running series, a part of the Mayhem Makers world. It's a spinoff of the fantastic Devil's Handmaidens MC series. It's a great beginning to a great new series. It's one big, emotional, rollercoaster following Storm (Dottie) and Halo's journey. The characters are absolutely fantastic and their storyline gripping. Another absolute must read from this author!
Profile Image for Merry Jelks-Emmanuel.
13.1k reviews154 followers
November 22, 2025
This compelling story is intense and pulls on your heart strings. Storm, Dottie and Halo are fascinating characters, and their story is an emotional one. It is well written with a narrative I enjoyed reading and connecting with.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
1,843 reviews
November 30, 2025
Halo started wandering after being discharged from the military. He was held hostage and rescued. He's not sure where he fits anymore. He arrived at the Sanctuary and Storm was drawn to him. Her and her twin escaped a cult and is still dealing with issues. They navigate quite an emotional journey through danger, suspense and more. A page turning story. Received a free copy.
Profile Image for Debbie Bolay.
879 reviews2 followers
December 5, 2025
💘💖💘 Halo and Storm 💘💖💘 D.M. Earl puts another amazing book in her crossover between Mayhem Makers and Devil's Handmaiden MC! I did NOT want to put this book down. Every book she writes is like this! This story has heart and love! Put this book, series and author on your TBR list today!.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
4,919 reviews30 followers
November 22, 2025
Storm/Dottie and her sister Dani escape from their cult upbringing and joins the Mayhem Makers where she meets Halo. This is a fast paced romance with two people who both been through more than they should have and to be able to find each other was more than they either expected.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews

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