She’s looking to start fresh, free from any entanglements. He’s not relationship material and is content living a quiet life. When their paths collide, the chemistry between them can’t be denied. But danger swirls around them…
For hairstylist Freya Hansen, relocating to Hudson Island gives her the chance to shed her old life and start over. When her newfound peace is shattered, she struggles to pick up the pieces, until a mysterious stranger steps in. A history of failed relationships has left her questioning her own judgement, no matter how intriguing she finds him.
Xander Bonetti has left his wild ways behind him and is more than happy to focus on his work—leading Hudson Security’s personal security division. But when he spies the petite hairdresser after an incident at the Pacific View Resort, his protective instincts kick into high gear. And when a threat from her past brings trouble to her doorstep, even while knowing his heart could be on the line, he’ll do anything to protect her.
As the heat between Xander and Freya grows, so does the danger that looms around them. Not only must they unravel decades-old clues to end the unseen threat targeting Freya, but they must also let go of their fears and secrets or they’ll lose their chance at a once in a lifetime love.
Author’s Please check the author’s website for all tropes and CWs.
Christina Sol is an award-winning author who writes what she loves to read — romance books filled with heart, heat, and suspense.
An avid reader from the get-go, Christina was obsessed with The Babysitters Club, Sweet Valley Twins, Sweet Valley High, Christopher Pike, and all things V. C. Andrews. Her love for romance started with the Sunfire books, a YA historical romance series. Caroline by Willo Davis Roberts was her favorite of the series, and a copy of the 1984 novel is one of her most treasured possessions. Then she discovered Danielle Steele and Nora Roberts. And never looked back. She’s still a voracious reader and enjoys all genres of romance, but leans toward romantic suspense and dark romance.
She lives in the inland Pacific Northwest with her husband and two kids. When she’s not writing, reading, or knitting, she’s watching football or fueling her planner, sticker, and washi-tape obsession.
A pulse-pounding, slow-burn sizzle I couldn’t put down ✨
5 ⭐ | 3.5 🌶️
Into the Storm is my first Christina Sol novel and wow, what an introduction. From page one, I was hooked (even while sick and barely functional). Sol delivers a perfect blend of romantic tension, emotional depth, and heart-thumping suspense that kept me flipping pages way past when I should’ve been resting.
Freya Hansen is exactly the kind of FMC I love rooting for: determined to start fresh, soft-hearted but strong, and doing her best to carve out a life away from her overprotective brothers and a messy romantic past. Her job at a luxurious resort feels like the reset she desperately needs…until danger barrels straight into her carefully rebuilt world.
Enter Xander Bonetti: ex-military, broody in the best way, and now leading Hudson Security’s personal protection division. He’s sworn off relationships, but the moment he crosses paths with Freya after an incident at the resort, his protective instincts turn feral. This man radiates full “touch her and die” energy and I ate up every second.
Their chemistry is electric, but what really hooked me was how their relationship grows: slowly, tenderly, with both of them lowering their walls inch by inch. Between the found family vibe, Xander’s unexpected softness, and Freya learning to trust again, Sol crafts a romance that feels both intimate and addictive.
And the suspense? Delicious. There’s a shadow from Freya’s past, old secrets that refuse to stay buried, and enough twisty moments to keep you guessing without ever dragging the pace.
This book is sexy, gripping, heartfelt, and atmospheric: everything I want from a romantic suspense. If you love protective heroes, resilient heroines, high-stakes tension, and a romance that smolders before it burns, Into the Storm is absolutely worth the read.
Huge thanks to Grey’s Promotions for the e-ARC, and massive congratulations to Christina Sol on the release! This second installment in the Hudson Security series hit shelves on December 10th, and I already can’t wait to dive into the next one.
This is the second book in this impressive series, and this is Xander and Freya’s story. Xander is not relationship material, while he is content to live a quiet life, and Freya is looking for a fresh start. These two keep crossing paths, and the attraction between them is instantaneous. This is a well written easy to read, action packed story, with found family, friendships, emotions, tension, secrets, danger, suspense, intrigue, challenges humour, witty banter, undeniable chemistry, and love, which leads to an entertaining, and tragic, small-town romance. I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
It’a Xander’s turn in the amazing Hudson Security series!
Xander was a character I latched onto in the last books, so I was so so excited to get his book. He’s a bit grumpy, but a total teddy bear for Daisy (his friend’s daughter) & I lovedddd getting those scenes of them together.
And the found family within the security team? SO GOOD. I absolutely cannot wait for all of the other characters to get their own books!
I did feel like this one was lighter on the suspense aspect. It starts off with a bang (literally), but nothing else really happens until the end of the book. So while I did enjoy the bits we got of Xander & Daisy as well as the relationship progressing from friends to more for Xander and Freya, I will say that I missed the high stakes danger aspect that is more present in past books.
Overall though, another great book in the Hudson Security series!
Side note, can we books for Freya’s brothers please?!
𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗴𝗲𝘁: Romantic Suspense Protective MMC Found family Small town
Thank you to Grey's Promotions and the author for the ARC in exchange for my honest review!
I loved Into the Storm, an incredible romantic thriller by Christina Sol, the second book in her Hudson Security series. Who does not love a romantic thriller with a happily ever after ending? Christina Sol is a must-read author for me. It was an incredible story, and I loved reading every moment on every page. I was hooked from the first page, and it was impossible to put it down. Into the Storm was an amazing story, and I highly recommend it if you love a romantic thriller. I can honestly say that Into the Storm is one of the most enjoyable romantic thrillers that I have read recently. Christina Sol provided her readers with the amazing characters that I loved, who feel like close friends! Her characters in Into the Storm are so believable and charming, they share great chemistry, lots of laughs, and steamy romance. I love how she developed the story line and the characters. Into the Storm is the story of Freya Hansen, hair stylist at the Pacific View Resort, and Xander Bonetti, head of the personal security division for Hudson Security. Freya and her co-worker Hazel head to the Orca Moon Lounge for drinks after a grueling day at work, where Freya’s client’s husband came in to the salon and shot up the place. The bartender asks Xander to pretend to be Freya’s boyfriend so that the drunk man hitting on her would leave her alone. They exchange numbers and Xander asked Freya to dinner. They run into each other the following day, because Hudson Security was hired to increase the security for the Pacific View Resort. Mysterious events start happening to Freya, from vandalism to her car and a note left by her door. Xander convinces Freya to move into his house until they can figure out what is going on. As Xander and Freya continue to spend time, things begin to change between them. They each realize that they have feelings for one another, and things heat up between them. I love the chemistry between Freya and Xander, how the sparks fly when they are near one another and that it so much more than chemistry. I love everything that Xander does for Freya to keep her safe. I love how Freya shares with Xander her childhood and everything that happened in her life. They shared things with one another that they had not shared with anyone before. I love Thanksgiving with Freya’s family and how Xander convinces her to tell her brothers what is going on in her love. Another favorite part is Freya’s interactions with Daisy, Scarlett and Matt’s daughter, and the birthday gifts the Xander and Freya buy for Daisy. I love Xander and Freya’s love story, and how Freya shows her vulnerable side to Xander. I love the hair cut that Freya gives to Xander and how everyone thinks he looks like a Viking. Then an unexpected plot twist puts Freya’s lives in danger. Loved how Xander and his team were able to determine where Freya was so that could rescue her. It kept me on the edge of my seat how they were going to solve her rescue and who was behind it. I love all the changes that both Freya and Xander are willing to make in their lives because of their love for one another. One of my favorite parts of Into the Storm is the epilogue that and how it wraps up their love story. I love all the surprises. I also love the bonus epilogue and how it went above and beyond a happily ever after, especially when the enjoy part of Xander’s birthday gift to Daisy at the pet sanctuary. I love the characters in Into the Storm, the characters feel like family and friends. I enjoyed all the interactions between the characters and the team member; it feels like real family love and makes me laugh at their teasing. My favorite part are the text streams that happen between Freya and Xander, and the ones between Xander and the Hudson Security team. I love the relationship between Xander and his team. Who does not love family and friends that always have each other’s backs? Into the Storm is filled with all those things that I love in a romantic thriller, incredible characters, amazing story, poignant and bittersweet moments, surprises, and plot twists. Christina Sol did not disappoint in her delivery of those things. I love how she resolved the surprise plot twist; it was truly a heartwarming moment. Looking forward to reading the next book in the series which is Wilson’s story. Highly recommend this romantic thriller love story. I received an advanced copy from the author.
When Freya's involved in a violent incident at her job at a spa, it brings Xander into her life. His company has been brought into the resort to restructure the security, so it's inevitable their paths intersect. They strike up a tentative friendship that quickly becomes more, even though neither thinks they're in the right frame of mind for a relationship. Their chemistry absolutely cannot be denied, though, and soon they're falling hard. They're both holding onto old pain and guilt, though, that might derail everything.
Xander and Freya may have started off in denial, but they were so sweet even in that denial. And of course that physical connection? Whew! They ended up being perfect for each other, they opened up with their secrets and their pain and let each other in, let themselves heal knowing they had their soulmate right there for comfort and support. The Hudson Security series is moving along with another amazing couple in Freya and Xander, now I'm really impatient to read Wilson's story next.
ARC provided by Grey's Promotions for an honest review.
I'd like to thank both Grey's Promotions and Christina Sol for trusting me with an ARC of this book, in exchange for an honest review.
First of all, let me tell you my thoughts on this story in a few words: “Oh, wow”.
Let me tell you, I am a SUCKER for the suspense and romance genre, and having both in this book? I was absolutely sold from the first page. The premise is good, gets you hooked without actually giving any major twist away (and I personally loved that Christina didn’t try selling the book merely by telling us the tropes we were going to find inside).
Before this book, I hadn’t read anything by the author, so I didn’t really know what to expect, and sometimes it happens that slow burns are hard to execute, because they easily turn a bit boring. But this wasn’t the case at all! And, yes, I do consider this a slow burn despite the amount of pages, because I am a slow reader, so it took a little longer for me to get to it.
The writing style was dynamic, very entertaining, and relaying in different elements to keep it going. At no point did it feel like the author had “forgotten” about the suspense to give way to the romance part, which is something I loved. Yes, sometimes one of the two had to move into the background, for the other to shine, but it still felt like both genres were present throughout the story.
(It is very hard to write reviews without giving away any spoilers, so please forgive me for how vague I am. But DO give this book a chance, I swear you won’t regret it).
Now let’s move on to the characters:
Freya Hansen, my absolute darling, I ADORED her. She has a heart of gold, while also being, or trying to be, independent. She is strong, determined, and running away from her messy past. I really loved how she wasn’t trying to be a shadow, observing from the outside. No, she wanted to take the reins of her life, and if she saw someone else in need of help, she didn’t hesitate to jump in, even if it meant she put herself in danger.
Xander Bonetti, who I thought in the beginning, was going to be like many other MMCs, surprised me in the best of ways. Yes, he was broody, gave major “touch her and die” vibes, and told himself time and time again how he “was not built for a relationship”. But, oh, my God, he was the sweetest, and most supportive man I’ve read in the last few months, and every time he called her pretty I was giggling and kicking my feet like a teenager with a crush.
Overall, and sorry to be repetitive, I LOVED this book, and am looking forward to reading more from Chirstina. My congratulations for writing such an entertaining romance book <3
If you are looking for: well written, action packed story with fairly fast pacing (if you’re a quick reader, which, again, I’m not, unluckily), with great amounts of tension, banter, and chemistry between the Mcs, this will definitely be the book for you!
This suspenseful romance is riveting. The main characters, Xander and Freya, drew me into their story with ease. Xander is the hot and growly head of personal security at Hudson’s Security with a heart of gold that he tries to keep under wraps. Freya is fairly new to the island and works at the salon at the Pacific View Resort and Spa. A terrifying incident in the salon brings Xander and his Hudson Security colleagues into her orbit. Her client was attacked by her abusive ex and Freya was also injured. Possessing her own heart of gold, Freya finished her client’s haircut after being injured and being questioned by the police. She wanted her client to get the transformation she so badly needed after years of abuse.
Xander meets Freya when he rescues from an overly aggressive bar patron who can’t take no for an answer. He didn’t expect the attraction or the inclination to want to get to know her better. He had all but sworn off relationships before meeting her, but her sweet and friendly demeanor, not to mention her beauty and petite figure, draw him to her. He admires her resilience and strength, though he still feels very protective of her, and surprisingly possessive. They keep running into to each other and Zander finally asks her out, feeling rather intrigued by her. Freya has her own reasons for being wary of love and relationships. She is however open to getting to know Zander better after his kind rescue and seeing him with his friend’s young daughter. Their interaction melts her heart and her lessens her misgivings about going out with him.
As their story continues, trouble comes Freya’s way and Xander is on full alert, ready and able to protect her. So are his colleagues who have taken an instant liking to Freya. I loved the camaraderie and teasing among Xander and his team. They can be a fun, gossipy and nosy bunch of, but they also have each other’s backs. They also offer Xander plenty of advice whether he wants it or not. Freya’s brothers are a bit overbearing and super protective, but they love Freya fiercely. Unfortunately, they treat her like a child rather than an adult and their criticism is one of the reasons she moved farther away from them. Freya and Xander have intense chemistry and just seem to fit together well. Neither expected the deeper feelings, the ease of their relationship or to feel authentically themselves when they are together. They truly are a great match.
“This woman had slipped under his skin, under his defenses, and deep into his heart. And he had no intention of letting her go.”
I was immediately drawn into the story, and instantly in love with the FMC. What do you mean she jumps in to help a client she just met against a crazy man, gets injured, and then after the terrifying ordeal, offers to finish cutting the client’s hair? l love her!
As odd as it may be to say, I like that the characters all acted human and like, normal? Like Freya may have jumped into the fight at the beginning of the book but she wasn’t magically bulletproof, so she backed off, and she was impacted by the event and didn’t just brush it off. Xander tells himself that relationships aren’t for him and keeps to himself, but when faced with Freya he finds himself just speaking from the heart without thinking, which I think is relatable. Not everything is this pre-planned masterpiece like I’ve seen so frequently in other books. Then again, that may just say more about the types of books I’ve been reading (lots of dark romance lol).
Xander is so sweet and patient and supportive. I loved him! The amount of times he called Freya pretty, both verbally and in his own head, was adorable. He wasn’t pushy and he also didn’t pull away from her, even though he’s “not a relationship guy” or whatever it is he was telling himself.
Freya is equally a sweetheart. She is very strong, with a tragic past that makes a resurgence.
Though there were a lot of secondary characters, they really did enhance the story and it was not too hard to keep track of everyone, since they all had their distinct personalities. I’m sure if I had read the first book in the series or the interconnected series, I would have enjoyed them even more. But even without having read the first book, they were very entertaining. I hope we get Freya’s brothers in future books!
I also have to say, I do love when there’s no third act breakup, which seems to be a rarity. So that’s an added bonus for this one! (Not a spoiler btw, the book is advertised this way lol)
I do feel like it ended just a tad quickly. I wish the ending was a bit more flushed out, but that’s my only complaint! And let’s be honest—is wishing a book was longer ever really a complaint?
In all, there was romance, mystery, suspense, hilarious moments, and an amazing cast of characters.
Quotes that made me laugh:
“We need to focus. Be professional and sh*t, okay?” ****************************************** “When he put it that way, she was a top candidate for being too stupid to live.” ****************************************** “Didn’t you say yesterday that you were going to butt out?” “Yeah, but I lied.”
************** ARC Review Title: Into the Storm Author: Christina Stol Date read: 12/2/25 Release Date: 12/10/25 My Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Tropes: Romantic suspense Traumatic past Found family Protective MMC Dual POV (third person narrative) Small town romance No third act breakup
Although this is the first book that I have read in this series, it didn't lessen the enjoyment, Christina Sol has written wonderful, likeable characters into an unputdownable story. Xander didn't do relationships, he had his "family" at Hudson Security where he was head of the personal security division, they would always have his back, they were closer than brothers, that was until ............ Pacific View was a luxury resort and after a traumatic incident, Hudson security was called in to do a full overhaul of the security at the resort, the resort needed to be safe, their reputation depended on it, money was no object. Xander couldn't believe his eyes when he saw the black haired beauty with the sparkling blue eyes, the same beauty who had been caught up in the trauma but was now calmly styling her clients hair, the same beauty who he had rescued from the unwelcome advances of a bar creep. Freya Hudson had moved to Hudson Island with the hope of laying her demons to rest, but have her demons followed her ? When she saw the ruggedly handsome security man, she was stunned, it was the same man that had come to her rescue in the bar, the attraction was instant. As Freya and Xander's story unfolds, the author allows you to see the real people behind the facades, how ex military Xander's tough exterior melts when he sees his partners young daughter, how he delights in being the favourite uncle. How beautiful, serene, but insecure, Freya , trusts Xander enough to open up to him. How Xander teachers Freya that she does deserve happiness, and how he would walk over hot coals to keep her safe. How the wonderful "family" at Hudson Security happily accepted Freya as one of their own. Throw in Freya's overprotective brothers who Xander has to face, and you have a story full of hope, of danger and of all consuming love. Thank you Grey Publishing and Net Gallery for this ARC, my review is totally voluntary.
The second book in the Hudson Security series and Into the Storm starts with a bang as the heroine Freya Hansen, a feisty hairstylist, dives headfirst into the line of fire to protect her client from an attacker, an event that ultimately leads her to Xander Bonetti, a personal security expert who’s company was engaged to overhaul security at the high class resort when he had to sweep in like a modern day Prince Charming and rescue Freya from an unwanted suitor who refuses to take no for an answer.
I adored Xander and Freya as a couple - they were refreshingly mature, with a relationship that felt genuine and void of unnecessary drama. Xander, a self-proclaimed former player, had grown up in the foster system and was now happy to live a quiet life, playing the doting uncle to his friend's daughter. Freya, on the other hand, was more of an enigma - having lost her parents at a young age and then been raised by her brothers, there were vibes of a rebellious past that she wasn’t proud of, and which had left obvious emotional scars. She'd moved to Hudson Island for a fresh start, but her past seemed to have followed her with hints of a stalker situation. Neither were looking for love or even a relationship but something about Freya pulled Xander in, and the more time he spent with her, the more he began to imagine the possibility of a future with her. But as their relationship kicked up a gear, so did the danger that had been following her. I loved the teasing Xander got from his workmates, who took great delight in tormenting him - it just showed how much they cared and there was a strong sense of a ‘found family’ within the workplace. The overall story had a strong flow, but I did feel the conclusion to the stalker situation was a bit of an anticlimax - it felt abrupt and unfinished, with no in-depth explanation given to the motive behind the who and why.
Freya Hansen is exactly the kind of FMC I love to root for—determined to start over, soft-hearted but quietly strong, and trying to build a life far away from overprotective brothers and a complicated romantic past. Her job at a luxurious resort feels like the clean slate she’s been craving… until danger crashes straight into her world and shatters the illusion of safety.
Enter Xander Bonetti. Ex-military. Broody. Lethally competent. Now running Hudson Security’s personal protection division, he’s a man who lives by control and distance—until Freya. One incident at the resort is all it takes for his instincts to snap into place, and from that moment on, Xander is in full touch her and you won’t live to regret it because you won’t live at all mode. The man is pure, unfiltered protector energy, and I devoured every single scene he was in.
The chemistry between Freya and Xander is scorching, but what really makes this romance hit is the slow, deliberate way it unfolds. This isn’t insta-love—it’s longing glances, careful steps, and walls coming down piece by piece. Xander may be gruff and closed-off, but his softness—especially when it comes to Freya and Daisy (his friend’s daughter)—is everything. Watching this supposedly unbreakable man turn into a complete teddy bear for the people he loves? Elite. No notes. Xander Bonetti is protective, smart, steady, and devastatingly devoted once he’s in.
The found family within the Hudson Security team is just as addictive as the romance. The loyalty, the banter, the ride-or-die energy—I’m already counting down until every single one of these characters gets their own book.
My only small gripe is that the suspense takes more of a backseat. The story opens with a bang, but the high-stakes danger doesn’t fully return until the end. While I loved soaking in the character moments, the feral protector in Xander made me crave more on-page threats for him to dismantle.
Still, this book delivers hard on emotional depth, slow-burn tension, and unapologetic touch her and die devotion. If you love lethal men who go soft for exactly one woman, found family dynamics, and romances that feel both intimate and consuming—this one is absolutely worth your time.
We had to wait quite a bit for the second book in this super series but it was definitely worth it.
With Into the Storm Christina takes us back to the men and women of Hudson Security when they get called in to up the security of the Pacific View Resort after a scary incident. As head of personal security Xander Bonetti takes his job seriously, loves working with the members of his team whom to him are his *family*. He's not looking for a relationship at all but that changes as soon as he meets Freya Hansen.
Freya is a hairstylist at the resort, she only recently moved to Hudson Island to both escape her overbearing brothers - especially the oldest - and from the threatening pictures she started receiving after a horrible accident that lead to the death of her best friend.
While there's an immediate connection and attraction between them they start things slow but as soon as the attacks on Freya seem to turn more personal, Xander goes all in and does everything in his power to keep the woman who's come to mean so much to him safe.
I loved this story, even more than the first book. It was a nice mix of action and sweet tenderness between the main characters. We get to see the rest of the team again and the banter between them is hilarious as ever but they also have each others back when one of them is attacked.
Into the Storm kept me glued to my Kindle and Christina telling us at the end of the book that Wilson's story is up next totally made my day. I can't wait to get my hands on that one!
** A kind thank you to Grey's Promotions and the author for the ARC. I'm leaving an honest voluntary review.**
This book has a wonderful balance of suspense, spice and found family/friends to captivate readers. I find myself totally caught up in the storyline and dying to know what happens next.
Xander has been just on the sidelines in the last few books by Christina so it was great to finally get to know him better. He is head of the personal security division at Hudson Security and he is part of the team to respond to the shooting at Pacific View Resort.
I loved how Xander stepped in to pretend to be Freya’s boyfriend to help Freya deal with an obnoxious guest and how naturally their relationship evolved. They were both attracted to each other and that led them to throw out their normal dating rules. The chemistry between these two is sizzling and just meant to be. Even though Xander wasn’t looking for a relationship, he found himself unable to resist spending time with Freya and their relationship quickly gets serious.
The family-like relationship between the Hudson Security team gives found family vibe and is entertaining with all the ribbing and teasing that happens among them.
Freya’s past brings some suspense and drama to the storyline. After several weird events, Xander takes steps to protect Freya and involves his team. The danger slowly escalates while Xander and Freya’s relationship quickly becomes more solid.
I’m excited to see more of the Hudson Security team team members featured in future books, and I’m definitely happy Wilson is next.
I received a free ARC from the author and Grey’s PR; and I am voluntarily leaving an unbiased review.
Into the Storm by Christina Sol, the 2nd book in the Hudson Security series, is a romantic suspense novel. Freya Hansen, a hairstylist, is seeking a fresh start on Hudson Island after a painful past. Xander Bonetti, the head of Hudson Security’s personal security division, is scarred by failed relationships
Freya and Xander first cross paths after an altercation in the pub and the bartender asks Xander to pretend to be Freya’s boyfriend. Despite neither Freya nor Xander wanting to get into a relationship, there’s an instant chemistry between them. But Freya’s ex-husband, who has been stalking her, escalates his threats to her and Xander decides to take on Freya’s case personally.
Freya does a good job of hiding just how scared she is behind her bubbly personality. Xander though sense’s the danger she’s in despite her protests that’s she’s fine. As threats escalate, Freya and Xander are forced into close proximity. Their professional relationship begins to blur with the undeniable attraction, and their emotional walls start cracking.
Freya and Xanders journey is very much a slow burn between two people who resist but can’t ignore their chemistry. With the backdrop of suspense and danger, Freya learning to trust again, Xander confronting his fear of commitment, Into the Storm doesn’t rely on shocking twists—it’s more about the emotional storm between the leads and how they navigate danger together. I really enjoyed Freya and Xanders journey and am excited for the rest of the series.
Huge thank you to Greys Promotions and Christina Sol for the opportunity to arc read and review the newest instalment in the Hudson Security series. All opinions that follow are honest and my own.
Book 2 of the Hudson Security series follows Xander (who I have to say was one of my fave characters from the first book) and Freya. Freya is a stylist at the famous resort on Hudson Island whose life is turned upside down when her client’s ex husband launches an attack on the salon while she’s doing her clients hair. Everyone ends up being okay but to make matters worse, while Freya is trying to wind down after the crazy events, some a-hole excuse of a man won’t listen to her multiple attempts at saying no. This is where our handsome security guard Xander swoops into action and pretends to be Freya’s boyfriend and ooooof there are no complaints in that department. What follows is a steamy but oh so swoonworthy romance. But there are still secrets begging to see the light, and things are about to take a dark turn.
Romantic suspense is easily becoming one of my top genres which is shocking considering I can’t stand thrillers. Must be all these swoony security guard characters ;). Anyways, I loved every minute of this book. Freya and Xander are so good together, the way he checks up on her, always making sure she’s comfortable. And omg Xander with Daisy was too freaking cute. I also liked the little updates we got about Gavin and Bean, I love all these characters so much and can’t wait to hear more about all my favourite people in future books!
This book pulled me in fast and did not let go. From the very first chapter the tension is intense and raw, and it never really lets you breathe. The opening alone sets the tone for how heavy and real this story is, and I was instantly invested in the main character and everything she had just survived. There is a strong emotional undercurrent running through the entire book, especially around trauma, fear, and learning how to feel safe again when your world has been ripped apart.
What really worked for me was the slow build of trust and connection. The relationship develops in a way that feels earned, not rushed, and I loved how protective energy slowly turns into something deeper. The found family aspect was one of my favorite parts. Watching people show up, stay, and protect without conditions added so much heart to the story. It balanced the darker moments beautifully.
The romance is addicting in that quiet, intense way where it sneaks up on you. It is not flashy, but it is emotional, grounding, and full of small moments that matter. I also appreciated how the main character was written with strength and vulnerability coexisting at the same time. She is not perfect, but she is resilient in a way that feels very real.
The reason this lands at four stars instead of five is pacing in a few places where I wanted either more depth or a bit more tension pushed further, but overall this was an engaging, emotional read that stayed with me after I finished. I will absolutely continue with this series.
Another Christina Sol couple to fall head over heels in love with 🫦 I am absolutely obsessed with everything about them! The yearning, tension, slow burn, angst, obsession and chemistry 🔥 Thank you so much for this ARC, Christina 💚
Xander Bonetti 🔥 When I talk about a man, I am talking about Xander 🫦 Another Christina MAN to fall incredibly in love with 🥹 Tall, handsome, quiet, golden retriever, works for Hudson Security, brave, charming, flirty, ex military, obsessed, protective, gentle, kind, seductive, rich, hides his trauma, and can't get enough of his woman 🤭 His character is so frickin hawt and cute all at the same time. I didn't know whether I wanted to jump his bones or cuddle 😂 Both! She made him throw all his rules out the window with just one look at her 😩
Freya Hansen 🫦 Christina's Sol fmc's are another level of strong! They make their way into your heart and are there to stay 🥹🤭 Beautiful, intelligent, independant, sunshine, incredibly brave, gentle, a sought-after hair dresser at The Pacific View Resort, protective, sassy, flirty, shy, hiding her trauma and tries her best to take things slow with Xander 🤭🔥 We meet her in such intense yet brave circumstances and I instantly became her cheerleader 🥹 She had me giggling and smirking in all the chapters. She feels immediately safe and cherished and that is everything 🥹
The slow burn had me on the edge of my seat. The spice had me smirking and blushing intensely! I loved seeing the previous characters and adore them so much! I need Wilson's book right now 😩 That man has me on my 🧎♀️🔥
Thank you Christina and Grey Promotions for this book that I could literally not put down. I don't know what Christina put into Xander but omg was I head over heels in love with this man from the second that he was introduced. Like OMG top tier book boyfriend. The way that he was just there for Freya, like swoon.
I also LOVED the found family dynamic. I loved all the bickering, the picking on each other, the constant support that Xander had with his Hudson team (family). Like I was kicking my feet and giggling every time they had scenes. I think that's what I loved the most. The secondary characters were such an integral part of the story and it made it feel whole and realistic since friends/families are a huge part of real life that don't just disappear when they are not needed. I loved that they added an emotional aspect as well especially when Xander talked to them.
I loved Freya. I love how slowly but surely she started to let her walls down and started to not necessarily be different, but started to become the person that she wanted to be. I love how she was flirtatious with Xander and how she put herself out there even after everything that she had gone trough.
I loved the plot! Like I was literally at the edge of my seat and it took so much of me to not skip to the end to know what happened. I was hooked from the first page and I could literally not put this bookd down.
This is told in dual 3rd POV. This is book 2 in the Hudson Security series and it's Xander Bonetti's story. We met him in book one as he is part of the Hudson security family. I like this series so far and I love the whole found family. The banter, the support and loyalty is perfect. Freya has moved to the island in the hope to start a fresh and away from her past. She is the hairdresser at the fancy resort. She is very forgiving, kind and likes to keep herself to herself. Xander is now working with the resort security after a thrilling encounter. This leads him to the bar, where he saves Freya from an aggressive and pushy man. He pretends to be her boyfriend and they start talking from there. They both had instant connection but neither are looking for relationship or even ONS. What starts as a friendship turns into more. However unfortunate incidents seems to keep happening to her and then her past has turned up threatening her life. I loved how protect Xander was and got into action straight away. No matter how good he was, she was still taken. Can Xander save her in time and will they move past it all? Who is after her and why? I really liked the suspense side and I was certain I knew who it was but I was wrong. Lots of drama, action, suspense, found family, emotional and love.
This is my first book from this author and I really enjoyed her style of writing so I will certainly be reading more from her.
This is the 2nd book in this series and even though I hadn't read the previous book it did not spoil my enjoyment of this one. It did make me WANT to go back and read the first one and other books from this Author.
Xander works for Hudson Security and never counted himself as relationship material until he steps in to help Freya with some unwanted attention. Now there is something about her that is drawing him to her and making him want the possibilities.
Freya is a hair stylist at a upscale resort salon and has not had the best day when she meets Xander but things start looking better now she has. With Xander at the resort to help improve security their paths are constantly crossing making that connection more intense and undeniable.
When it becomes apparent that there is a threat against Freya he will do whatever he has to, to keep her safe.
I loved all the other characters in this one. I'm totally invested in the rest of the crew at Hudson security so can't wait to read more of them! The comradery and family dynamics was brilliant to watch play out, they more like family with the banter and the support.
This book was filled with found family, witty banter, red hot undeniable chemistry, friendships and with the romantic suspense this makes this one hell of a must read!
I was gifted a copy of this book by the Author and this is my honest opinion
Into the Storm is a sweet, fast paced, romantic suspense that had me up in my feels and on the edge of my seat! Christina Sol's writing is clear, comforting, and full of life and action. Sol's second installment in the Hudson Security series is another fun and delightfully romantic story where the hero will fall hard and fast, will do anything to protect and support, and is understanding and open to growth. Sol's tone is engaging, her characters are unique and real, and the suspense she builds ramps up the tension keeping the reader guessing what will happen next.
I loved watching Freya and Xander fall in love, upon first meeting it is apparent that these two are attracted to the other and meant to be. Sol does a beautiful job keeping their chemistry bubbling and showing these charming moments where these two meld together in such a lovely way. Through soft moments, Sol is able to show the depth of this romance, even with it being a fast paced one. I loved watching these two fall for the other, support each other, and trust each other. They both decide to take a chance on their relationship and it is clear from the beginning that they are building one that is healthy and communicative because they fully respect the other.
Into the Storm is a must read for any romantic suspense fan, for anyone who loves Christina Sol, and anyone who just wants a quick escape! I would definitely recommend this book and this series, I have adored each installment!
Thank you to Grey's Promotions for an eARC, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
Thank you to Greys Promotions for allowing me a spot on this ARC team and to review this book.
This was my first read by this author and I will in already hooked. Like I couldn’t get enough. I need more. I loved all the characters in this book and seriously can’t wait for them all to get their own stories. I feel like they all have a lot to tell.
This book was Xander and Freya's and they were oh so good !!! Xander is kinda broody in my opinion anyway and wasn’t looking for a relationship at all. Freya is looking for a fresh start and new beginning and somehow or another they keep running into each other and wow the attraction is intense and real and just instant.
Xander’s found family within the security team is so so good. I love that. Like that’s what I want with a job. I long for that.
I really loved Freya I felt like she was relatable but also so strong and I loved how her brothers were so overprotective and just there for here.
This is a really well written high stakes story that had me hooked late into the night just turning the pages. I really can’t wait for more. Seriously new favorite author added to the list!!
Into the Storm is the second book in the Hudson Security series and it features Freya, a hairstylist who recently relocated to Hudson Island and Xander, the leader of Hudson Security’s personal security division.
Xander and Freya are so great together! She has a tragic past but is so caring and has a heart of gold. He’s tough and fiercely protective but a complete teddy bear around his friend's daughter, Daisy (who is ADORABLE!). Freya hasn’t had the best luck with relationships and just wants a fresh start and Xander doesn’t think he’s relationship material so he’s content to focus on work but the chemistry between them was instantaneous and undeniable. I loved the way their relationship developed and how patient he was when it came to her opening up about her past. And just like book one, there’s no third act breakup!
I love the Hudson Security team so it was great revisiting these characters. The found family in this is absolutely amazing. The suspense was a bit lighter in this book compared to the others but I liked the way it slowly builds throughout the story. I was fully invested in finding out who Freya’s stalker was and liked that the reveal managed to surprise me.
Everyone at Hudson Security deserves a HEA so I can’t wait for the next book in the series!
Many thanks to Grey’s Promo for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This is the second book in the series and though it could be read as a standalone, I do think reading in order gives a better feel for this found family of co-workers. This is Xander and Freya's story and it is packed full of suspense and emotions.
Xander and Freya first cross paths when he rescues her at the bar from a handsy guy who won't take now for an answer. The connection is pretty instant and has them both a little surprised. With Hudson Security working on added security at the Spa, they cross paths a few more times.
They fall into an easy chemistry and are genuine. One by one little things keep happening and before you know it Xander is in full protector mode. Can they figure out who is behind this and why?
I was drawn into my kindle and theses characters. Just the right mix of suspense and unexpected romance had me turning page after page, wanting more. And now I can't wait for the next in the series.
Grab your copy and enjoy.
*** Advanced copy provided in exchange for an honest review. ***
*4 stars* I only recently discovered the books by the author and have been thorougly enjoying to read them. Loving this suspenseful series but it also has something romantic mixed into it that I really like. I loved the connection and chemistry that was building between the lead characters, Xander & Freya throughout the story. It was a true rollercoaster as it definitely had suspense to it. Looking forward to see what comes next!
Freya has been through a lot and is trying to keep it all together. When she's on a night out, it seems that trouble is still following her around but when she meets Xander, there is an instant spark between them that's just undeniable. Xander has never been interested in an relationship but it seems that he's drawn to Freya in a way he can't explain. When things are happening around them, he's determined to keep her safe. After everything Freya's been through, it's hard to keep the faith but Xander's a light in the dark and their relationship evolves into something more but will it be enough in the end?...
I always love romance books with a side of suspense, this is the second book of the series and I am hooked. Xander has been a character that I wanted to learn more about and his book was worth the wait! He is a bit of a grump, but he softens for those that he cares about. When weird things start happening to Freya, he convinces her to move into his house so they can figure out what is going on. The more time they spend together, things start changing between them. I love how she opens up to him and he does everything he can to keep her safe. As things heat up between them, they get closer to each other’s families, and then something happens to Freya that puts her life in danger. Xander and his team were able to figure it out quickly and save her, and I was biting my nails to figure out who was behind everything. I always love epilogues and this one was no different, I loved being able to spend more time with these characters. I am looking forward to the next guy at Hudson to find his HEA.
Received ARC from author and Grey’s Promotions for honest review.
✨Tropes✨ 🧐Romantic Suspense 🦸♂️Protective Hero ♥️Found Family 🏡Small Town 🎭Tragic Past 🌶️🌶️⭐⭐⭐⭐
I was hooked from page 1. The emotions, tension, spice and suspense combined had me up late to finish. Freya wanted to start fresh away from the overprotective ways of her brothers. Freya is a strong FMC with a good heart. The new job seems like just the thing she needs until danger enters her path. Xander is the broody ex-military leader of Hudson Security's personal protection division. He's sworn off relationships and sticks to that until he meets Freya. She shakes up his thinking and sends him into "touch her and 💀" mode. I swooned so hard over that. The chemistry between Freya and Xander was electric. It's packed with spicy goodness. The way that the author explored how the relationship between them grows. I loved the found family aspect and the way Xander was a grump to everyone but Daisy was cute.The suspense was twisty enough to keep me guessing. This was a good romantic suspense.
I loved delving back into the Hudson Island world. Into the Storm is book 2 in the Hudson Security series which is a continuation of the Hudson Island series. Xander and Freya are perfect for each other. Let’s be honest, we’ve all been waiting for Daisy’s Xandy to get his HEA. Daisy’s cameos are my favorite part of the story. She is one of my favorite characters and I absolutely love the dynamic between her and Xander, especially when the other guys are giving him crap about being her favorite.
Christina Sol will have you laughing, crying, and on the edge of your seat all within a few pages! Freya’s backstory will break your heart and have you rooting for her at the same time. Her relationship with her brothers is so relatable, how many of us have similar frustrations with our own loved ones? It’s such a good representation of real life.
Sol has created a world of incredible alpha heroes and Xander is certainly no exception. Into the Storm is the perfect addition to this series and will have readers itching for more. I already can’t wait for the next in the series!
After being hit on at a bar, Xander comes to Freya’s aide, pretending to be her boyfriend. The next day, they run into each other at her job where he’s helping with security after an incident happened the previous day. Thus, beginning the start of their relationship as Xander can’t get enough of Freya.
Freya begins receiving pictures of herself with her eyes scratched out from an unknown person and finally tells Xander the background of those pictures.
I loved everything about Freya and Xander. Xander has such amazing friends and colleagues, there’s an easy flow of banter and support between them, and he’s the absolute sweetest with Daisy, one of his teammate’s daughter. I loved Freya, she’s sweet, caring and compassionate. My heart freaking broke for her and losing her best friend the way she did. I enjoyed the building of suspense throughout the book leading up to Freya being taken.
My only conflict is the person behind the damaged pictures of Freya. I thought and hoped it was going to be a shocking reveal but instead it was some random guy Freya doesn’t even know but was connected to her deceased best friend.
I loved being back on Hudson Island and with such amazing, caring and protective group of friends! I can’t wait for the next book!
This book was excellent. Xander and Freya were such a great couple. The romance was rife and such a feel good but suspenseful story.
This was about hairdresser at a ritzy resort, Freya was being targeted from a traffic event nanny years ago and about Xander a Hudson Security expert who helps her.
Firstly I have to say i loved this team. The banter and snarky comebacks were priceless. I had more than a few chuckles at their shenanigans.
Freya was caring, family orientated and in heavy denial at what was coming for her but she had Xander on her side and then his team as well. But that attraction was so well done. Not an overly steamy book but it was handled so well.
I also liked the few twists and the surprise ending. Kept me guessing till the very last.
Fantastic writing and this author surprised me. I've not read many of her books but I'm converted and will be looking for more. Brilliant read!!