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Amber Ridge #6
Unfinished
They both want to forget their haunted pasts, but not all ghosts stay buried.
Thirteen years ago, Bonnie Hayes fled the only home she’d ever known, and everyone she loved, without a backward glance. She ran from the grief and pain of losing not only her parents, but her boyfriend…and the crushing guilt. But now she’s back, and she’s learning the hard way that time doesn’t heal all wounds. Even though she’s determined to face the people she left behind, some want her to disappear again—and they’ll go to great lengths to see it happen.
Former UFC fighter Zane Merrick is building a new life in Amber Ridge, far away from the hell he lived through in Billings. He’s built a busy gym from the ground up by keeping his head down and avoiding complications—especially ones like Bonnie. But when he realizes the woman lives just doors away, keeping his distance becomes impossible. And as they grow closer, he’s more and more aware they’re both keeping secrets. Even though Bonnie doesn’t know his past, someone else does, and that someone wants to expose him, ruining his fresh start—with both Amber Ridge and Bonnie.
As their pasts come crashing into the present, Zane and Bonnie are forced to confront people they’ve tried to outrun. Above all else, his priority is her safety…even if he loses his life in the process.
A Small Town, Friends to Lovers, Romantic Suspense from Bestselling Author Nyssa Kathryn.
Thirteen years ago, Bonnie Hayes fled the only home she’d ever known, and everyone she loved, without a backward glance. She ran from the grief and pain of losing not only her parents, but her boyfriend…and the crushing guilt. But now she’s back, and she’s learning the hard way that time doesn’t heal all wounds. Even though she’s determined to face the people she left behind, some want her to disappear again—and they’ll go to great lengths to see it happen.
Former UFC fighter Zane Merrick is building a new life in Amber Ridge, far away from the hell he lived through in Billings. He’s built a busy gym from the ground up by keeping his head down and avoiding complications—especially ones like Bonnie. But when he realizes the woman lives just doors away, keeping his distance becomes impossible. And as they grow closer, he’s more and more aware they’re both keeping secrets. Even though Bonnie doesn’t know his past, someone else does, and that someone wants to expose him, ruining his fresh start—with both Amber Ridge and Bonnie.
As their pasts come crashing into the present, Zane and Bonnie are forced to confront people they’ve tried to outrun. Above all else, his priority is her safety…even if he loses his life in the process.
A Small Town, Friends to Lovers, Romantic Suspense from Bestselling Author Nyssa Kathryn.
303 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 9, 2026
283 people are currently reading
135 people want to read
About the author
Nyssa Kathryn
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Australian Romantic Suspense Author, Nyssa Kathryn, is a passionate reader and writer of all things romance. Living in South Australia with her hubby and daughter, when she's not spending time with the family, she's either plotting her next story or got her head stuck in a book.
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Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nyssakathrynauthor
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https://www.nyssakathryn.com/vip-newsletter
Australian Romantic Suspense Author, Nyssa Kathryn, is a passionate reader and writer of all things romance. Living in South Australia with her hubby and daughter, when she's not spending time with the family, she's either plotting her next story or got her head stuck in a book.
Follow Nyssa here:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nyssakathrynauthor
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authornyssakathryn/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 93 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
Unfinished is book six of the Amber Ridge series by Nyssa Kathryn. Thirteen years after her boyfriend and parents died, Bonnie Hayes fled Amber Ridge. Now, she returns to reconnect with her brother and sister. However, she is surprised to find that the community still resents her for past events. When Bonnie is attacked, newcomer Zane Merick steps in to help. Their meeting creates a bond, but they each harbour secrets that may threaten any chance of unity. Readers of Unfinished follow Zane Merick and Bonnie Hayes as their story continues to unfold.
Unfinished is an excellent ending to this fantastic series. I love Nyssa Kathryn's writing style, which keeps me engaged with her stories and characters from the first page. Reading this book, I learn about the consequences of hate, greed, and jealousy on a community. In addition, I understand the role of women's refuges and the importance of security and privacy for the women and children who use them.
I love the portrayal of the characters and their interactions throughout this book. Unfinished was well written and thoroughly researched. I also appreciate the descriptions of the settings, which allowed me to imagine being part of the plot.
Thank you to the author for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review. I recommend this book.
Unfinished is an excellent ending to this fantastic series. I love Nyssa Kathryn's writing style, which keeps me engaged with her stories and characters from the first page. Reading this book, I learn about the consequences of hate, greed, and jealousy on a community. In addition, I understand the role of women's refuges and the importance of security and privacy for the women and children who use them.
I love the portrayal of the characters and their interactions throughout this book. Unfinished was well written and thoroughly researched. I also appreciate the descriptions of the settings, which allowed me to imagine being part of the plot.
Thank you to the author for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review. I recommend this book.
January 6, 2026
Can’t believe this is the last book of this wonderful series. I have loved every one of these stories. The characters have been amazing.
After reading previous books, I was dying to know Bonnie’s story. Why did she leave town so abruptly? She hadn’t kept in touch with her siblings. What happened?
And this book reveals all! What a way to tie up a series. I couldn’t put my kindle down.
After reading previous books, I was dying to know Bonnie’s story. Why did she leave town so abruptly? She hadn’t kept in touch with her siblings. What happened?
And this book reveals all! What a way to tie up a series. I couldn’t put my kindle down.
January 9, 2026
Review
Some ghosts don’t rattle chains.
They sit quietly in your chest and wait.
Bonnie Hayes is a woman shaped by loss. Thirteen years ago, she ran from the only life she’d ever known—running from grief, guilt, and a love that ended too soon. Coming back to Amber Ridge isn’t brave or healing; it’s necessary. And the town makes sure she pays for every year she was gone. Her pain feels raw and unpolished, the kind that never fully fades, only settles deeper with time.
Zane Merrick understands that kind of haunting. A former UFC fighter with a past soaked in violence and regret, he’s rebuilt himself brick by brick—new town, new rules, no attachments. His gym isn’t just a business; it’s survival. Zane is restraint wrapped in strength, a man who’s learned that control is the only thing keeping his demons at bay.
Their connection is slow, cautious, and achingly real. There’s no rush, no instant trust—just two people recognizing the damage in each other and choosing to stay anyway. What makes their romance hit so hard is the silence between them. The secrets. The things left unsaid because saying them could destroy everything.
On audio, Jason Clarke and Laura Horowitz elevate every emotion. Jason gives Zane a grounded intensity—controlled, protective, and quietly devastating—while Laura brings Bonnie’s grief and resilience to life with vulnerability and strength. Together, their performances add depth to the tension and intimacy, making every moment feel heavier and more personal.
The suspense builds quietly but relentlessly. The danger doesn’t feel distant or convenient—it’s personal, invasive, and terrifyingly believable. Both Bonnie and Zane are hunted by pasts that refuse to stay buried, and watching those lives collide is tense and emotionally charged.
Zane’s devotion is where this story truly shines. He doesn’t posture or promise—he protects. Fully. Fiercely. Even when the cost is everything he’s fought to rebuild. His love is action, sacrifice, and unwavering priority.
This is a story about redemption that doesn’t come easy, forgiveness that isn’t guaranteed, and love that asks you to face the very things you tried to outrun.
If you love romantic suspense with emotional depth, broken characters clawing toward healing, and a protective hero who loves with his whole soul—this one will stay with you long after the final chapter.
Some ghosts don’t rattle chains.
They sit quietly in your chest and wait.
Bonnie Hayes is a woman shaped by loss. Thirteen years ago, she ran from the only life she’d ever known—running from grief, guilt, and a love that ended too soon. Coming back to Amber Ridge isn’t brave or healing; it’s necessary. And the town makes sure she pays for every year she was gone. Her pain feels raw and unpolished, the kind that never fully fades, only settles deeper with time.
Zane Merrick understands that kind of haunting. A former UFC fighter with a past soaked in violence and regret, he’s rebuilt himself brick by brick—new town, new rules, no attachments. His gym isn’t just a business; it’s survival. Zane is restraint wrapped in strength, a man who’s learned that control is the only thing keeping his demons at bay.
Their connection is slow, cautious, and achingly real. There’s no rush, no instant trust—just two people recognizing the damage in each other and choosing to stay anyway. What makes their romance hit so hard is the silence between them. The secrets. The things left unsaid because saying them could destroy everything.
On audio, Jason Clarke and Laura Horowitz elevate every emotion. Jason gives Zane a grounded intensity—controlled, protective, and quietly devastating—while Laura brings Bonnie’s grief and resilience to life with vulnerability and strength. Together, their performances add depth to the tension and intimacy, making every moment feel heavier and more personal.
The suspense builds quietly but relentlessly. The danger doesn’t feel distant or convenient—it’s personal, invasive, and terrifyingly believable. Both Bonnie and Zane are hunted by pasts that refuse to stay buried, and watching those lives collide is tense and emotionally charged.
Zane’s devotion is where this story truly shines. He doesn’t posture or promise—he protects. Fully. Fiercely. Even when the cost is everything he’s fought to rebuild. His love is action, sacrifice, and unwavering priority.
This is a story about redemption that doesn’t come easy, forgiveness that isn’t guaranteed, and love that asks you to face the very things you tried to outrun.
If you love romantic suspense with emotional depth, broken characters clawing toward healing, and a protective hero who loves with his whole soul—this one will stay with you long after the final chapter.
January 10, 2026
Hey everybody, welcome back to another audiobook review today. We are talking about unfinished by Nyssa Kathryn. This is another Blue Nose AUDIO production. It’s told in duet style narration by Jason Clarke & Laura Horowitz. This is a nice little small town romance that follows our FMC Bonnie. She has left her hometown of Amber Ridge, 13 years ago due to an incident that occurred and everyone basically blames her. When she comes back, she finds that a lot of people still blame her for that incident and one day when she is walking to pick up some stuff for her boss she sees two people that highly blame her so she decides to hide in a gym where she meets our main MMC Zade. Now Zade is a former UFC fighter who has a history in himself and he is also kind of keeping tabs on the family member of his. That is incarcerated now Zade and Bonnie have cross paths before where he was going to defend Bonnie, when other people came to her in a coffee shop still blaming her for the incident so when they see each other again, they both recognize each other instantly and it’s kind of building from there. It’s kinda hard for them to stay away from each other because they reside in the same building together. I think Laura and Jason did absolutely amazing job with the narration of the story because it’s also in that third person POV where it’s basically like telling a story and the first book I read in this POV I didn’t really like it but now that I have read several more of them. I absolutely love this style of writing. I think Nyssa did an amazing job captivating this type of POV with the storytelling because I think gripping where it’s being told as a story which at least it did for me so I do highly recommend that people go check out this story I think it’s a great small town romance and it just has those vibes of redemption for both of our main characters.
January 10, 2026
After 13 years away from her brother and sister and the town she grew up in, Bonnie finally comes home and learns that all is not forgiven or forgotten. Years ago she was blamed for the death of her boyfriend Dean and his family tormented her and turned others against her. The death of her parents months after had her running away and now the old hurts and guilt come back and when a confrontation has Zane stepping up for her, and then running into his gym when hiding, she may have found an allie. Zane left his small town after a betrayal that has left him constantly vigilant but Bonnie tears down his carefully constructed walls, not letting anyone close…until her. Both of their pasts still have a hold on them and both have people gunning for them and the best way to stay safe is to stick together and hopefully it will be enough.
A great read with amazing characters, steam, secrets exposed, surprises, twists and turns and a read that had me flipping the pages from beginning to end. The emotions leapt off the pages, the heartbreak, guilt and shame that Bonnie had and her road to redemption, along with Zane’s protectiveness over her….sigh. A bittersweet end to this series but the author doesn’t disappoint as there is more to come, with new characters and new towns…CAN’T WAIT!!
*I voluntarily read an advanced copy and expressed my honest opinion*
A great read with amazing characters, steam, secrets exposed, surprises, twists and turns and a read that had me flipping the pages from beginning to end. The emotions leapt off the pages, the heartbreak, guilt and shame that Bonnie had and her road to redemption, along with Zane’s protectiveness over her….sigh. A bittersweet end to this series but the author doesn’t disappoint as there is more to come, with new characters and new towns…CAN’T WAIT!!
*I voluntarily read an advanced copy and expressed my honest opinion*
January 12, 2026
4.5 stars
Wow! What a series finale and aptly titled. Bonnie is returning home after thirteen years away. She quickly learns not all is forgotten or forgiven. She is blamed for the death of another, and the then the passing of her parents, had her running away.
Zade is also starting over, a former UFC fighter. As Bonnie ducks into the gym to avoid two of her biggest tormentors, she runs into Zane. This is not their first meeting; he has come to her defense in the past.
Bonnie and Zane have pasts that are not completely buried. Zane needs to stay alert and aware, will Bonnie break the walls around his heart?
This whole series has been an edge of the seat reads, the twists turns, secrets and Unfinished fits right in. I am excited to see what Nyssa Kathryn brings us next.
Thank you to the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.
Wow! What a series finale and aptly titled. Bonnie is returning home after thirteen years away. She quickly learns not all is forgotten or forgiven. She is blamed for the death of another, and the then the passing of her parents, had her running away.
Zade is also starting over, a former UFC fighter. As Bonnie ducks into the gym to avoid two of her biggest tormentors, she runs into Zane. This is not their first meeting; he has come to her defense in the past.
Bonnie and Zane have pasts that are not completely buried. Zane needs to stay alert and aware, will Bonnie break the walls around his heart?
This whole series has been an edge of the seat reads, the twists turns, secrets and Unfinished fits right in. I am excited to see what Nyssa Kathryn brings us next.
Thank you to the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.
January 4, 2026
Unfinished, the final book in the Amber Ridge series, is the kind of story you start casually and suddenly realize you’re fully invested and emotionally stressed—in the best way. It pulls together all the drama, secrets, and tension the series has been building toward.
Bonnie returning to the town she ran from is messy, painful, and impossible to ignore. Thirteen years didn’t soften anything, and watching her face the people—and guilt—she left behind had me hooked. Zane is quiet, guarded, and clearly running from his own past, and their slow-burn connection is layered with chemistry and emotion.
The mix of small-town romance and romantic suspense keeps the stakes high and the pages turning. It’s emotional, intense, and a really satisfying conclusion to the series.
Amber Ridge may be over, but I can’t wait to dive into Nyssa Kathryn’s Deep River series.
Bonnie returning to the town she ran from is messy, painful, and impossible to ignore. Thirteen years didn’t soften anything, and watching her face the people—and guilt—she left behind had me hooked. Zane is quiet, guarded, and clearly running from his own past, and their slow-burn connection is layered with chemistry and emotion.
The mix of small-town romance and romantic suspense keeps the stakes high and the pages turning. It’s emotional, intense, and a really satisfying conclusion to the series.
Amber Ridge may be over, but I can’t wait to dive into Nyssa Kathryn’s Deep River series.
January 9, 2026
What a fantastic ending to an amazing series. There is wall to wall suspense and drama.
Bonnie left years ago after the death of her high school boyfriend now she’s back and the people of this small town still blame her.
Zane has moved to Amber Ridge to start over but the past is trying to follow him. Together he and Bonnie try to overcome the past and enemy’s from every direction.
Fast paced with a love story to die for.
Bonnie left years ago after the death of her high school boyfriend now she’s back and the people of this small town still blame her.
Zane has moved to Amber Ridge to start over but the past is trying to follow him. Together he and Bonnie try to overcome the past and enemy’s from every direction.
Fast paced with a love story to die for.
December 25, 2025
I was a little hesitant to start this book because we already got some backstory about Bonnie in Indie and Colton’s book, and it didn’t exactly paint her in the best light. I had to remind myself, though, that everything we heard was from Indie’s point of view, so of course it was biased. I went into this book knowing I needed to take that information with a grain of salt until I could finally hear Bonnie’s side and understand what really happened.
Once I did, my heart completely broke for her. Everything Bonnie went through was incredibly sad, and I honestly just wanted to reach through the pages and give her a big hug. I couldn’t blame her at all for wanting to leave Amber Ridge and never look back. The way the people in town judged her and treated her so cruelly made her choices feel completely understandable.
One of my favorite things about this story was Zane. I loved that he never believed the rumors about Bonnie and trusted her from the very beginning, even when they barely knew each other. He was protective of her right away, but in a way that felt supportive rather than overbearing. His loyalty and belief in her made such a difference, and their connection was really sweet to watch develop.
We also got introduced to a new character, Ethan, which has me really excited because it looks like we’re getting a brand-new series that will tell his story. I’m definitely looking forward to seeing where that goes.
Once I did, my heart completely broke for her. Everything Bonnie went through was incredibly sad, and I honestly just wanted to reach through the pages and give her a big hug. I couldn’t blame her at all for wanting to leave Amber Ridge and never look back. The way the people in town judged her and treated her so cruelly made her choices feel completely understandable.
One of my favorite things about this story was Zane. I loved that he never believed the rumors about Bonnie and trusted her from the very beginning, even when they barely knew each other. He was protective of her right away, but in a way that felt supportive rather than overbearing. His loyalty and belief in her made such a difference, and their connection was really sweet to watch develop.
We also got introduced to a new character, Ethan, which has me really excited because it looks like we’re getting a brand-new series that will tell his story. I’m definitely looking forward to seeing where that goes.
January 11, 2026
That’s a wrap for Amber Ridge! Book 6 wraps up this small town and I am ready for Deep River. Our intro to Ethan gives the same protector vibes we get with all of Nyssa’s men and I’m already salivating for it, lol.
While I didn’t connect with Bonnie and Zane quite like I did with the other couples (can’t really put my finger on why), I still really enjoyed the read. It has all the elements I love in Nyssa’s books. A tragic past, new beginnings, a dangerous twisted plot, a cast of characters, a strong FMC and a protective MMC.
The plot wrapped up with an unexpected twist and I’m so glad a person I was suspecting ended up being a good guy, lol.
I loved seeing the other Amber Ridge couples throughout and the intro into the next series seems so interesting.
While I didn’t connect with Bonnie and Zane quite like I did with the other couples (can’t really put my finger on why), I still really enjoyed the read. It has all the elements I love in Nyssa’s books. A tragic past, new beginnings, a dangerous twisted plot, a cast of characters, a strong FMC and a protective MMC.
The plot wrapped up with an unexpected twist and I’m so glad a person I was suspecting ended up being a good guy, lol.
I loved seeing the other Amber Ridge couples throughout and the intro into the next series seems so interesting.
January 10, 2026
Oh Bonnie and Zane, they've really had a hell of a life, betrayed, blamed, villianised, attacked, heart break... they've seen and felt it all. But with their reunited and found family, they begin their healing journey to finally find their peace.... whilst kicking some bad guy ass of course. Loved it as always.
December 25, 2025
I loved this book so very much. Bonnie and Zane wow this one was a doozie. I’m so glad that we finally get their love story. We have heard about them in the other books and now we finally get to dig into to their back stories and figure out what makes them tick. Bonnie has had a rough go of it since her teenage years. Her return to her hometown, reintegrate back into life with her family again is so interesting. What they don’t expect was how much of a spark is there when Bonnie and Zane meet for the first time. Zane is just trying to keep his nose clean and mind his business. When he meets Bonnie all bets are off. I love watching them together. They have such great chemistry. Both of them have very rocky pasts that they are trying to overcome, watching them work through it together is magic. Through all the ups and downs they figure it out how to make it work. I am so glad that they to their happily ever after.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Zane and Bonnie were 100% perfection together. Their resilience, strength, understanding, and support of each other is unwavering despite circumstances that arise. They have an instant connection and it runs deep. Add in the help and support of their family and friends and it’s beyond reproach.
Unfinished is an absolutely amazing story. The characters are engaging and complex, the storyline is intense and full of twists and turns, there is constant suspense and danger throughout with emotional turmoil, family bonds, spice, secrets revealed, and more. An unputdownable read and a wonderful ending to a great series!
Bonnie Hayes flees Amber Ridge at the young age of 18 after tragedy, guilt, and town hatred drive her away. Now she’s back to reconnect with her roots, her family, hoping for a fresh start in her hometown. Small towns are fickle, though, and some townsfolk won’t let the past rest. Some hold a grudge and will do anything to force her to leave, or worse. Threats, attacks, and harassment follow her wherever she goes and she’s almost ready to run again. Even with her family standing firmly at her side she’s drowning under the blame and pain. Will Bonnie be able to find her footing and her voice, to forgive herself and share the truth of what really happened all those years ago? To accept her family and friends support to find the culprit before it’s too late?
After a close call with a murder charge in Billings, Zane Merrick has moved to Amber Ridge for a fresh start. He’s a former MMA fighter turned gym owner and things are going well. He’s keeping to himself, his gym’s gaining in popularity, and he’s building a new life away from the false accusations, whispers, and the press. He’s also keeping tabs on his past through a close military friend to avoid surprises of the deadly kind. His minding his own business, staying in the background life suddenly falls apart when Bonnie returns home. When he steps in to help and offers her shelter, those actions expose him to her pursuers and cause his past to be forced out into the light. Will this stop him from offering assistance or will it force Zane to face his demons as he helps Bonnie face hers?
The first couple of close encounters they have ignites something that turns into a blazing inferno between them. Neither of them has a chance to escape, though they try. Zane quickly realizes that Bonnie quiets the rage he has buried deep just as she realizes he is her safe haven from the hatred. Though the more time they spend together, they bring each other into the sights of those wishing to do them harm. In order to overcome their pasts and rebuild their lives, they have to work together to find and expose their enemies once and for all. And they have to fight for themselves and each other and the future they hope to have.
Unfinished is an absolutely amazing story. The characters are engaging and complex, the storyline is intense and full of twists and turns, there is constant suspense and danger throughout with emotional turmoil, family bonds, spice, secrets revealed, and more. An unputdownable read and a wonderful ending to a great series!
Bonnie Hayes flees Amber Ridge at the young age of 18 after tragedy, guilt, and town hatred drive her away. Now she’s back to reconnect with her roots, her family, hoping for a fresh start in her hometown. Small towns are fickle, though, and some townsfolk won’t let the past rest. Some hold a grudge and will do anything to force her to leave, or worse. Threats, attacks, and harassment follow her wherever she goes and she’s almost ready to run again. Even with her family standing firmly at her side she’s drowning under the blame and pain. Will Bonnie be able to find her footing and her voice, to forgive herself and share the truth of what really happened all those years ago? To accept her family and friends support to find the culprit before it’s too late?
After a close call with a murder charge in Billings, Zane Merrick has moved to Amber Ridge for a fresh start. He’s a former MMA fighter turned gym owner and things are going well. He’s keeping to himself, his gym’s gaining in popularity, and he’s building a new life away from the false accusations, whispers, and the press. He’s also keeping tabs on his past through a close military friend to avoid surprises of the deadly kind. His minding his own business, staying in the background life suddenly falls apart when Bonnie returns home. When he steps in to help and offers her shelter, those actions expose him to her pursuers and cause his past to be forced out into the light. Will this stop him from offering assistance or will it force Zane to face his demons as he helps Bonnie face hers?
The first couple of close encounters they have ignites something that turns into a blazing inferno between them. Neither of them has a chance to escape, though they try. Zane quickly realizes that Bonnie quiets the rage he has buried deep just as she realizes he is her safe haven from the hatred. Though the more time they spend together, they bring each other into the sights of those wishing to do them harm. In order to overcome their pasts and rebuild their lives, they have to work together to find and expose their enemies once and for all. And they have to fight for themselves and each other and the future they hope to have.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Amazing Story & Narration🎧 Riveting & Intense!
Unfinished
Amber Ridge Book 6
By: Nyssa Kathryn
Narrated by: Laura Horowitz, Jason Clarke
Nyssa Kathryn never ceases to amaze me with her incredible stories, intriguing stories that captivate your attention, tug at your heartstrings the entire time. “Unfinished”, the fifth book in her amazing “Amber Ridge” series, is Bonnie Hayes and Zane Merrick’s story, a thrilling and exciting romantic suspense with some mystery that keeps you thinking and takes you to the edge of your seat. Bonnie Hayes finally comes back to Amber Ridge and her family after staying away for thirteen years. Her family welcomes her back with open arms, but not everyone in town does, and they are not hiding their hatred of her. She receives threatening messages, and the threats continue to escalate, but the police are not having luck tracking who is behind the threats. A newcomer in town, an unlikely ally, becomes her go-to friend and her protector. Zane Merrick, a former UFC fighter and military service member, came to Amber Ridge for a fresh start, opening a gym and avoiding trouble, something Bonnie brings, drawn to her like a moth is to a flame, he can not help but help her. Zane comes with his own jaded past, and not only does Bonnie’s past come back to haunt her, but so do his, not only is everyone he cares about in danger but so is Amber Ridge. I loved the complexity of the characters, all the layers of the story and how it all plays out, with the perfect balance of drama, angst, mystery, thrilling suspense, heartfelt emotions and a steamy and chemistry filled romance. Nyssa Kathryn, thank you for another exceptional story and wild ride.
🎧📚🎧 And for the amazing audiobook listen performed by Laura Horowitz and Jason Clarke, who were fantastic with voicing the characters and bringing them to life. Their portrayal of each character was spot on, and they were believable in every role, showcasing their personalities completely. Clarke nailed it as Zane, broody, protective and someone not to be messed with and Horowitz was just as fabulous in Bonnie’s role. Both were fantastic at performing the roles of the side and secondary characters, young and old included. It is a pleasure to listen to these talented voice artists and entertaining storytellers, and their captivating performance rivets you to the story.
Unfinished
Amber Ridge Book 6
By: Nyssa Kathryn
Narrated by: Laura Horowitz, Jason Clarke
Nyssa Kathryn never ceases to amaze me with her incredible stories, intriguing stories that captivate your attention, tug at your heartstrings the entire time. “Unfinished”, the fifth book in her amazing “Amber Ridge” series, is Bonnie Hayes and Zane Merrick’s story, a thrilling and exciting romantic suspense with some mystery that keeps you thinking and takes you to the edge of your seat. Bonnie Hayes finally comes back to Amber Ridge and her family after staying away for thirteen years. Her family welcomes her back with open arms, but not everyone in town does, and they are not hiding their hatred of her. She receives threatening messages, and the threats continue to escalate, but the police are not having luck tracking who is behind the threats. A newcomer in town, an unlikely ally, becomes her go-to friend and her protector. Zane Merrick, a former UFC fighter and military service member, came to Amber Ridge for a fresh start, opening a gym and avoiding trouble, something Bonnie brings, drawn to her like a moth is to a flame, he can not help but help her. Zane comes with his own jaded past, and not only does Bonnie’s past come back to haunt her, but so do his, not only is everyone he cares about in danger but so is Amber Ridge. I loved the complexity of the characters, all the layers of the story and how it all plays out, with the perfect balance of drama, angst, mystery, thrilling suspense, heartfelt emotions and a steamy and chemistry filled romance. Nyssa Kathryn, thank you for another exceptional story and wild ride.
🎧📚🎧 And for the amazing audiobook listen performed by Laura Horowitz and Jason Clarke, who were fantastic with voicing the characters and bringing them to life. Their portrayal of each character was spot on, and they were believable in every role, showcasing their personalities completely. Clarke nailed it as Zane, broody, protective and someone not to be messed with and Horowitz was just as fabulous in Bonnie’s role. Both were fantastic at performing the roles of the side and secondary characters, young and old included. It is a pleasure to listen to these talented voice artists and entertaining storytellers, and their captivating performance rivets you to the story.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Zane and Bonnie had UNFINISHED pasts and I loved their book
With the release of UNFINISHED, Author Nyssa Kathryn perfectly rounded out her 6 Book Amber Ridge series and it’s aptly named as both of our characters have unfinished business in their pasts. Bonnie Hayes left as a hurt and confused 18-year-old after being blamed for the death of her boyfriend, and losing their parents as well shortly after, she cut ties with her older siblings Indie and Noah who’s books I’ve already read and loved earlier in the series. I knew of Bonnie and wondered just how bad things had been for her to leave in the manner she did. Thirteen years later, she’s back to reconnect with her siblings, but the acrimony from the past from some in town was just as strong as ever it had been.
Someone was out to hurt her.
Zane Merrick was a reasonably new resident to Amber Ridge and owned the only gym in town. He was the typical of Ms Kathryn’s heroes but I can honestly say, it’s never trite. For some reason Zane was holding himself away from the dating scene, but found himself inexplicably drawn into Bonnie's orbit. For such a reluctant hero, he just couldn’t help himself from being around her. Except he also brought danger with him.
Now someone else was out to hurt her!
Ms Kathryn packed a lot into UNFINISHED. Normally the suspense element evolved around one key character but this time, there were two separate story arcs going on and it made the book seem to move so much faster. I loved it, and seeing Bonnie reconnect with Indie and Noah brought in past characters from the series. She has perfected a winning formula that seriously never grows old. Each book released is a fresh story and in each series, the characters are inter-connected and I love her writing and the way she sets each book up. As always, this book was seriously great reading at 5-double-romantic-suspense-Stars 💕 🖤💛
With the release of UNFINISHED, Author Nyssa Kathryn perfectly rounded out her 6 Book Amber Ridge series and it’s aptly named as both of our characters have unfinished business in their pasts. Bonnie Hayes left as a hurt and confused 18-year-old after being blamed for the death of her boyfriend, and losing their parents as well shortly after, she cut ties with her older siblings Indie and Noah who’s books I’ve already read and loved earlier in the series. I knew of Bonnie and wondered just how bad things had been for her to leave in the manner she did. Thirteen years later, she’s back to reconnect with her siblings, but the acrimony from the past from some in town was just as strong as ever it had been.
Someone was out to hurt her.
Zane Merrick was a reasonably new resident to Amber Ridge and owned the only gym in town. He was the typical of Ms Kathryn’s heroes but I can honestly say, it’s never trite. For some reason Zane was holding himself away from the dating scene, but found himself inexplicably drawn into Bonnie's orbit. For such a reluctant hero, he just couldn’t help himself from being around her. Except he also brought danger with him.
Now someone else was out to hurt her!
Ms Kathryn packed a lot into UNFINISHED. Normally the suspense element evolved around one key character but this time, there were two separate story arcs going on and it made the book seem to move so much faster. I loved it, and seeing Bonnie reconnect with Indie and Noah brought in past characters from the series. She has perfected a winning formula that seriously never grows old. Each book released is a fresh story and in each series, the characters are inter-connected and I love her writing and the way she sets each book up. As always, this book was seriously great reading at 5-double-romantic-suspense-Stars 💕 🖤💛
January 13, 2026
4.5 Stars
Unfinished is the sixth book in the Amber Ridge series by Nyssa Kathryn. Noah and Indie’s sister Bonnie is finally home and this is her and Zane’s story as well as the conclusion to the series.
I really liked Bonnie. She left town at the age of eighteen after her parents were killed in an accident and her boyfriend was killed after leaving a party drunk. Leaving Amber Ridge had to have been scary as well as starting a life away from everyone she knew and loved. I had respect for Bonnie for keeping her mouth shut about certain events, while at the same time I felt like she should have said something which would have made things easier for her.
Zane’s character has been a bit mysterious in the previous books and we finally learn the details about him and his past. I understood his being conflicted about being with Bonnie because of him wanting to protect her, but I also felt like he could keep her the safest no matter what happened.
I loved all the action and trying to figure out who was behind what. I enjoyed seeing more of Noah and Indie and the other characters from earlier books in the series.
My only complaint is that I kinda felt as though we missed (or at least I did) watching Bonnie and Zane actually fall in love. They were together some and did spend time getting to know one another. More than once however, Zane backed off and I just didn’t feel like as a couple they had spent enough time together to develop the feelings they confessed, especially with all that was going on. It felt like Zane spent more time with Ethan than Bonnie and that she spent more time either at work or with Noah and Indie than she did with Zane.
I enjoyed getting to know the characters and stories of Amber Ridge and hate to see it end; but I genuinely liked Ethan and I am excited about the new Deep River series that his book will start. Maybe Zane or the others will make an appearance(s) and we’ll get an update into their lives.
Unfinished is the sixth book in the Amber Ridge series by Nyssa Kathryn. Noah and Indie’s sister Bonnie is finally home and this is her and Zane’s story as well as the conclusion to the series.
I really liked Bonnie. She left town at the age of eighteen after her parents were killed in an accident and her boyfriend was killed after leaving a party drunk. Leaving Amber Ridge had to have been scary as well as starting a life away from everyone she knew and loved. I had respect for Bonnie for keeping her mouth shut about certain events, while at the same time I felt like she should have said something which would have made things easier for her.
Zane’s character has been a bit mysterious in the previous books and we finally learn the details about him and his past. I understood his being conflicted about being with Bonnie because of him wanting to protect her, but I also felt like he could keep her the safest no matter what happened.
I loved all the action and trying to figure out who was behind what. I enjoyed seeing more of Noah and Indie and the other characters from earlier books in the series.
My only complaint is that I kinda felt as though we missed (or at least I did) watching Bonnie and Zane actually fall in love. They were together some and did spend time getting to know one another. More than once however, Zane backed off and I just didn’t feel like as a couple they had spent enough time together to develop the feelings they confessed, especially with all that was going on. It felt like Zane spent more time with Ethan than Bonnie and that she spent more time either at work or with Noah and Indie than she did with Zane.
I enjoyed getting to know the characters and stories of Amber Ridge and hate to see it end; but I genuinely liked Ethan and I am excited about the new Deep River series that his book will start. Maybe Zane or the others will make an appearance(s) and we’ll get an update into their lives.
January 10, 2026
ꍏ꒒ꏳ ꋪꏂ꒦ꀤꏂꅐ
𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐨 - 𝖹𝖺𝗇𝖾
𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐞 - 𝖡𝗈𝗇𝗇𝗂𝖾
5 𝘜𝘯𝘧𝘪𝘯𝘪𝘴𝘩𝘦𝘥 𝘕𝘢𝘳𝘳𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐬
𝐎𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐎𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐨𝐧
Bonnie, leaving home at eighteen to quieten the noise of pain, grief and guilt seemed like the only option. She just never realised her one decision will lead her to not communicating with her sister and brother for thirteen years.
Zane, the army gave him a purpose and when that part of his life was coming to an end he joined the UFC. But his only living family member nearly destroyed him. To get away from the stares and accusations he left his small town for Amber Ridge. His content with spending his days running his gym and having zero drama.
Zane and Bonnie. This couple respectively went through so much. The pain they suffered, the danger always lurking, secrets that caused so much harm. It was a lot. The protectiveness this hero had for Bonnie from their first meeting 🤌🏻 the instant connection, the build up of their chemistry, development of their relationship was on point.
The final book in this series was narrated in duet by 𝘑𝘢𝘴𝘰𝘯 𝘊𝘭𝘢𝘳𝘬𝘦 & 𝘓𝘢𝘶𝘳𝘢 𝘏𝘰𝘳𝘰𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘻. This was my first time listening to both of these narrators and I was held captive. Literally!
𝘓𝘢𝘶𝘳𝘢 𝘏𝘰𝘳𝘰𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘻 𝗏𝗈𝗂𝖼𝖾 𝗐𝖺𝗌 perfect for Bonnie, from the smoothness of her voice, to the lightness yet firmness of her tone and accents. Beautiful.
𝘑𝘢𝘴𝘰𝘯 𝘊𝘭𝘢𝘳𝘬𝘦! Holy this man's voice. He was 💯% perfect for Zane. The gruffness, commanding tone. But also the vulnerability and pain in certain chapters. Perfect!
These two narrators! 🤌🏻💋
𝐒𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬
𝖫𝗈𝗏𝖾𝖽 𝖼𝖺𝗍𝖼𝗁𝗂𝗇𝗀 𝗎𝗉 𝗐𝗂𝗍𝗁 𝗉𝗋𝖾𝗏𝗂𝗈𝗎𝗌 𝖼𝗁𝖺𝗋𝖺𝖼𝗍𝖾𝗋𝗌.
𝖤𝗍𝗁𝖺𝗇, 𝗁𝖾𝗋𝗈 𝗈𝖿 𝗍𝗁𝖾 𝗇𝖾𝗑𝗍 𝗌𝖾𝗋𝗂𝖾𝗌. 𝖢𝖺𝗇'𝗍 𝗐𝖺𝗂𝗍.
𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬
𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐨 🥊🥊🥊🥊🥊
𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐞 💻🥊💻🥊💻
𝐂𝐡𝐞𝐦𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐲 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
𝐒𝐩𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐋𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥 🥵🌶️
𝐏𝐥𝐨𝐭 📚📚📚📚.5
𝐄𝐦𝐨𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐋𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥 💧
𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐨 - 𝖹𝖺𝗇𝖾
𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐞 - 𝖡𝗈𝗇𝗇𝗂𝖾
5 𝘜𝘯𝘧𝘪𝘯𝘪𝘴𝘩𝘦𝘥 𝘕𝘢𝘳𝘳𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐬
𝐎𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐎𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐨𝐧
Bonnie, leaving home at eighteen to quieten the noise of pain, grief and guilt seemed like the only option. She just never realised her one decision will lead her to not communicating with her sister and brother for thirteen years.
Zane, the army gave him a purpose and when that part of his life was coming to an end he joined the UFC. But his only living family member nearly destroyed him. To get away from the stares and accusations he left his small town for Amber Ridge. His content with spending his days running his gym and having zero drama.
Zane and Bonnie. This couple respectively went through so much. The pain they suffered, the danger always lurking, secrets that caused so much harm. It was a lot. The protectiveness this hero had for Bonnie from their first meeting 🤌🏻 the instant connection, the build up of their chemistry, development of their relationship was on point.
The final book in this series was narrated in duet by 𝘑𝘢𝘴𝘰𝘯 𝘊𝘭𝘢𝘳𝘬𝘦 & 𝘓𝘢𝘶𝘳𝘢 𝘏𝘰𝘳𝘰𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘻. This was my first time listening to both of these narrators and I was held captive. Literally!
𝘓𝘢𝘶𝘳𝘢 𝘏𝘰𝘳𝘰𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘻 𝗏𝗈𝗂𝖼𝖾 𝗐𝖺𝗌 perfect for Bonnie, from the smoothness of her voice, to the lightness yet firmness of her tone and accents. Beautiful.
𝘑𝘢𝘴𝘰𝘯 𝘊𝘭𝘢𝘳𝘬𝘦! Holy this man's voice. He was 💯% perfect for Zane. The gruffness, commanding tone. But also the vulnerability and pain in certain chapters. Perfect!
These two narrators! 🤌🏻💋
𝐒𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬
𝖫𝗈𝗏𝖾𝖽 𝖼𝖺𝗍𝖼𝗁𝗂𝗇𝗀 𝗎𝗉 𝗐𝗂𝗍𝗁 𝗉𝗋𝖾𝗏𝗂𝗈𝗎𝗌 𝖼𝗁𝖺𝗋𝖺𝖼𝗍𝖾𝗋𝗌.
𝖤𝗍𝗁𝖺𝗇, 𝗁𝖾𝗋𝗈 𝗈𝖿 𝗍𝗁𝖾 𝗇𝖾𝗑𝗍 𝗌𝖾𝗋𝗂𝖾𝗌. 𝖢𝖺𝗇'𝗍 𝗐𝖺𝗂𝗍.
𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬
𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐨 🥊🥊🥊🥊🥊
𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐞 💻🥊💻🥊💻
𝐂𝐡𝐞𝐦𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐲 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
𝐒𝐩𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐋𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥 🥵🌶️
𝐏𝐥𝐨𝐭 📚📚📚📚.5
𝐄𝐦𝐨𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐋𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥 💧
January 11, 2026
🪡 2.75 stars ⌜mostly for Zane’s emotional endurance and my own for finishing this.⌟
Bonnie Hayes returns to Amber Ridge after 13 years, allegedly “stronger” (jury's out). The town hates her, Zane Merrick helps her during a public mess, and this follows the unresolved trauma, and a romance that should’ve stayed in the drafts folder.
bonnie.
She started off fine. Functional. @25% she hit the gas on *downhill*. She’s into Zane (cool), but he’s like, “Hey, I’ve got some serious baggage, maybe don’t climb me like a jungle gym just yet.” Naturally, she hears: “Please, ruin my life.”
Then the baggage shows up—ugly, messy, and exactly what he warned her about—and Bonnie’s response?
“Twenty minutes ago, she’d been on top of the world. Now? Now she had no idea who she’d slept with. Or who she’d fallen for.”
ᝰ.ᐟMa’am. You knew. You knew. This is what happens when you IGNORE YOUR FRONTAL LOBE!!
Then she demands space (fine), refuses to hear him out (less fine), and proceeds to ghost him. Until, of course, she needs help again—then it’s back to knocking on his door like a confused Victorian heroine with amnesia and the whole “I don’t know who I like” routine?
ᝰ.ᐟGirl, you were just horizontal with him. You liked him plenty then.
zane.
He was nice, calm, rational, and somehow still interested in Bonnie despite her being her.
ᝰ.ᐟ he deserved better!
final thoughts.
At some point I genuinely wondered if the author just Ctrl+Replaced “Connie, baby” with “Bonnie, baby” and called it a day. Because the vibes? Equally unhinged.
Bonnie was a walking migraine with a martyr complex, and Zane deserved hazard pay.
Bonnie Hayes returns to Amber Ridge after 13 years, allegedly “stronger” (jury's out). The town hates her, Zane Merrick helps her during a public mess, and this follows the unresolved trauma, and a romance that should’ve stayed in the drafts folder.
bonnie.
She started off fine. Functional. @25% she hit the gas on *downhill*. She’s into Zane (cool), but he’s like, “Hey, I’ve got some serious baggage, maybe don’t climb me like a jungle gym just yet.” Naturally, she hears: “Please, ruin my life.”
Then the baggage shows up—ugly, messy, and exactly what he warned her about—and Bonnie’s response?
“Twenty minutes ago, she’d been on top of the world. Now? Now she had no idea who she’d slept with. Or who she’d fallen for.”
ᝰ.ᐟMa’am. You knew. You knew. This is what happens when you IGNORE YOUR FRONTAL LOBE!!
Then she demands space (fine), refuses to hear him out (less fine), and proceeds to ghost him. Until, of course, she needs help again—then it’s back to knocking on his door like a confused Victorian heroine with amnesia and the whole “I don’t know who I like” routine?
ᝰ.ᐟGirl, you were just horizontal with him. You liked him plenty then.
zane.
He was nice, calm, rational, and somehow still interested in Bonnie despite her being her.
ᝰ.ᐟ he deserved better!
final thoughts.
At some point I genuinely wondered if the author just Ctrl+Replaced “Connie, baby” with “Bonnie, baby” and called it a day. Because the vibes? Equally unhinged.
Bonnie was a walking migraine with a martyr complex, and Zane deserved hazard pay.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
**Audio Review**
THIS is how you do romantic suspense! Nyssa excels at the genre, and creating plots that leave room for intrigue, thrill, swoony romance, and solid character arcs. Tropes include single mom, small town, friends to lovers, former military/UFC fighter, and plenty of suspense. Though it is the last book in an interconnected series, it reads perfectly well as a standalone.
We have Bonnie, who recently relocated back to Amber Ridge and is starting fresh. She is the town pariah, being constantly blamed for her former boyfriend's death, to the point where she is put in danger. Enter Zane, owner of a local boxing gym and a man who is also hiding his own secrets. When it seems that the past has caught up with them, they seek to expose the truth, at any cost.
I love a protective alpha hero, and Zane is IT. Not only is he a big, buff former UFC fighter, but he's a giant softie for Bonnie. When Bonnie is attacked, he does not hesitate to step in, even if it means losing life or limb. Bonnie struggles with self-image and wanting to escape the constant blame for the death of her high school boyfriend, but she is one tough cookie. I appreciate her tenacity and fight.
Laura Horowitz and Jason Clarke *delivered* on this audio, and truly did a phenomenal job with these characters. Laura portrays a beaten down, broken woman who rises to the challenge of taking down her tormentors, and she does it beautifully. I've been a fan of Jason for some time now, and this is some of the best work that I've heard from him. Growly, protective goodness at its finest.
THIS is how you do romantic suspense! Nyssa excels at the genre, and creating plots that leave room for intrigue, thrill, swoony romance, and solid character arcs. Tropes include single mom, small town, friends to lovers, former military/UFC fighter, and plenty of suspense. Though it is the last book in an interconnected series, it reads perfectly well as a standalone.
We have Bonnie, who recently relocated back to Amber Ridge and is starting fresh. She is the town pariah, being constantly blamed for her former boyfriend's death, to the point where she is put in danger. Enter Zane, owner of a local boxing gym and a man who is also hiding his own secrets. When it seems that the past has caught up with them, they seek to expose the truth, at any cost.
I love a protective alpha hero, and Zane is IT. Not only is he a big, buff former UFC fighter, but he's a giant softie for Bonnie. When Bonnie is attacked, he does not hesitate to step in, even if it means losing life or limb. Bonnie struggles with self-image and wanting to escape the constant blame for the death of her high school boyfriend, but she is one tough cookie. I appreciate her tenacity and fight.
Laura Horowitz and Jason Clarke *delivered* on this audio, and truly did a phenomenal job with these characters. Laura portrays a beaten down, broken woman who rises to the challenge of taking down her tormentors, and she does it beautifully. I've been a fan of Jason for some time now, and this is some of the best work that I've heard from him. Growly, protective goodness at its finest.
January 12, 2026
Intense from start to finish
This is the first book by this author for me. It’s book 6 and the finale of a series. It was intense, action packed, and I was hooked from start to finish. I didn’t miss a thing listening to this as a standalone. It left me wanting to go back to the rest of the series.
Bonnie is back after thirteen years away. She fled town after her parents’ death when she was too young to deal with the grief, pain, and guilt she held onto. She soon finds out; the past is not forgotten in this small town. Threats and harassment become a daily event for Bonnie, and one man seems to be in the right place at the right time constantly. Zane is former military and UFC fighter, now gym owner and her neighbor. He has a past of his own, he’s trying to keep at bay. They strike up a friendship when he insists they can’t be more. Their chemistry can’t be denied, and their journey is a ride.
With chaos around them, and the constant threats from their pasts taunting them, they continue to support each other without question and grow closer. I enjoyed that Bonnie, even though broken emotionally, she was still fierce, tenacious, and held her own. Zane was a perfect balance of protective, tender, and supportive. Bonnie blossomed as he continued to build her up.
Duet narration by Laura Horowitz and Jason Clarke and they delivered. You felt every range of emotion. From the intensity of everything happening around them to the emotional upheaval when those close to them were in harm’s way. They brought this story to another level.
This was a fantastic ride. It’s intense, fast paced, emotional, and a bit of a redemption story. There’s also a great peak into what’s coming next. I’m hooked and can’t wait.
This is the first book by this author for me. It’s book 6 and the finale of a series. It was intense, action packed, and I was hooked from start to finish. I didn’t miss a thing listening to this as a standalone. It left me wanting to go back to the rest of the series.
Bonnie is back after thirteen years away. She fled town after her parents’ death when she was too young to deal with the grief, pain, and guilt she held onto. She soon finds out; the past is not forgotten in this small town. Threats and harassment become a daily event for Bonnie, and one man seems to be in the right place at the right time constantly. Zane is former military and UFC fighter, now gym owner and her neighbor. He has a past of his own, he’s trying to keep at bay. They strike up a friendship when he insists they can’t be more. Their chemistry can’t be denied, and their journey is a ride.
With chaos around them, and the constant threats from their pasts taunting them, they continue to support each other without question and grow closer. I enjoyed that Bonnie, even though broken emotionally, she was still fierce, tenacious, and held her own. Zane was a perfect balance of protective, tender, and supportive. Bonnie blossomed as he continued to build her up.
Duet narration by Laura Horowitz and Jason Clarke and they delivered. You felt every range of emotion. From the intensity of everything happening around them to the emotional upheaval when those close to them were in harm’s way. They brought this story to another level.
This was a fantastic ride. It’s intense, fast paced, emotional, and a bit of a redemption story. There’s also a great peak into what’s coming next. I’m hooked and can’t wait.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Oh, wow. Seriously. This marks the end of our time in Amber Ridge, at least as our primary place to call home, but it is exactly the end that this series deserves. Bonnie and Zane are fantastic and perfect for each other. They’re both tired of running from the pain of pasts that 100% were never their fault or theirs to bear blame for, and they’re trying to find peace now. But can they?
This has quite a few twists and man, will you be angry. Not at Bonnie or Zane. For them. So angry for Bonnie, who did nothing to deserve the hatred she faces from those who had no business blaming her. From people who knew the truth and kept quiet. From small minds and jealous souls. And the betrayals this woman has endured? It’s a little surprising that she’s as good a person as she is when every truth comes out.
Zane is in the same boat. Except his truths are thrown out by those who have no clue, but have an intense desire to cause pain for him because of who he wishes to be around. That, coupled with the other danger swirling around, makes for a lot of questions and while you’ll get some answers right, the rest will surprise you.
This is honestly the redemption arc that Bonnie and Zane shouldn’t have needed, since they truly did no wrong, but it is exactly the perfect end to misery and start to a bright forever together that they both so richly earned.
And now, I wait. Ethan has a story to tell and I’m going to try very hard to be patient.
This has quite a few twists and man, will you be angry. Not at Bonnie or Zane. For them. So angry for Bonnie, who did nothing to deserve the hatred she faces from those who had no business blaming her. From people who knew the truth and kept quiet. From small minds and jealous souls. And the betrayals this woman has endured? It’s a little surprising that she’s as good a person as she is when every truth comes out.
Zane is in the same boat. Except his truths are thrown out by those who have no clue, but have an intense desire to cause pain for him because of who he wishes to be around. That, coupled with the other danger swirling around, makes for a lot of questions and while you’ll get some answers right, the rest will surprise you.
This is honestly the redemption arc that Bonnie and Zane shouldn’t have needed, since they truly did no wrong, but it is exactly the perfect end to misery and start to a bright forever together that they both so richly earned.
And now, I wait. Ethan has a story to tell and I’m going to try very hard to be patient.
Review of advance copy
I didn't think it was possible for anyone to be equal with Indy and Colt but Bonnie and Zane are tied with them for my favorite couples out of this series.
Bonnie and Zane are both such resilient characters determined to build new lives for themselves and escape their pasts. Bonnie knew going back to her hometown after running 13 years ago was not going to be easy and meeting Zane, forming the friendship they do, was perfect timing for Bonnie as some of the townspeople start messing with her.
Zane is extremely protective of his new friend that he just so happens to start developing feelings for. He is Bonnie's fiercest protector even when it comes to protecting her from him, thinking it is for the best until he cannot deny his feelings anymore. He is not about to let anyone from her past or his hurt her.
I love that these two are friends with chemistry for days. They both deserve to be loved unconditionally. Bonnie is just as protective of Zane as he is her. They are so perfect for each other.
*******AUDIO REVIEW******
Laura Horowitz and Jason Clarke bless the listeners with their amazing talent. Laura is a new to me narrator and she was so good with every single character and emotion. Her voice is a perfect match to reflect the age of the character.
And Jason Clarke, I lost count of how many times my eyes widened when it came to a scene involving Zane protecting Bonnie. He always understands the assignment and gives his 110% to the characters. This definitely became one of my top favorites of his.
Bonnie and Zane are both such resilient characters determined to build new lives for themselves and escape their pasts. Bonnie knew going back to her hometown after running 13 years ago was not going to be easy and meeting Zane, forming the friendship they do, was perfect timing for Bonnie as some of the townspeople start messing with her.
Zane is extremely protective of his new friend that he just so happens to start developing feelings for. He is Bonnie's fiercest protector even when it comes to protecting her from him, thinking it is for the best until he cannot deny his feelings anymore. He is not about to let anyone from her past or his hurt her.
I love that these two are friends with chemistry for days. They both deserve to be loved unconditionally. Bonnie is just as protective of Zane as he is her. They are so perfect for each other.
*******AUDIO REVIEW******
Laura Horowitz and Jason Clarke bless the listeners with their amazing talent. Laura is a new to me narrator and she was so good with every single character and emotion. Her voice is a perfect match to reflect the age of the character.
And Jason Clarke, I lost count of how many times my eyes widened when it came to a scene involving Zane protecting Bonnie. He always understands the assignment and gives his 110% to the characters. This definitely became one of my top favorites of his.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This story brings us back to Amber Ridge for a final emotional story.
Both Bonnie and Zane have run from their pasts, but want to move on and live their lives, but some people just won't let that happen. In this book both Bonnie and Zane have reasons to keep secrets.
Bonnie has returned to the family she left at 18. I did get a little frustrated with her after finding out the whole story, but she was only 18 and her reasoning at the time was mostly based on emotions.
I love the connection between Bonnie & Zane, it just felt so easy and natural. She fled the town thirteen years ago after a major tragedy, and her return brings up a lot of old wounds and guilt. Zane is the perfect match for her; he is a former fighter trying to stay under the radar and build a new life. He is a strong and supportive presence, even while he is trying to navigate his own secrets and keep his head down. They really drew strength from each other.
The suspense is page-turning, and the plot has quite a few twists that keep the nail biting going until the end. Far more gripping than the previous books in the series. The way their two worlds collide creates a lot of tension, but it also shows how much they are willing to risk for each other's safety.
This book brings all the familiar faces together one last time, and I will be sad to see this series end. It really highlights how family makes all the difference when someone is trying to heal and grow.
Both Bonnie and Zane have run from their pasts, but want to move on and live their lives, but some people just won't let that happen. In this book both Bonnie and Zane have reasons to keep secrets.
Bonnie has returned to the family she left at 18. I did get a little frustrated with her after finding out the whole story, but she was only 18 and her reasoning at the time was mostly based on emotions.
I love the connection between Bonnie & Zane, it just felt so easy and natural. She fled the town thirteen years ago after a major tragedy, and her return brings up a lot of old wounds and guilt. Zane is the perfect match for her; he is a former fighter trying to stay under the radar and build a new life. He is a strong and supportive presence, even while he is trying to navigate his own secrets and keep his head down. They really drew strength from each other.
The suspense is page-turning, and the plot has quite a few twists that keep the nail biting going until the end. Far more gripping than the previous books in the series. The way their two worlds collide creates a lot of tension, but it also shows how much they are willing to risk for each other's safety.
This book brings all the familiar faces together one last time, and I will be sad to see this series end. It really highlights how family makes all the difference when someone is trying to heal and grow.
Review of advance copy
This is my second ALC for books in this series. While it didn’t quite top the previous installment for me, it was still a solid outing from the author.
We were first introduced to Bonnie and Zane in previous books of the series, where we’re given a glimpse into the “unfinished” business that haunts them both. This book picks up after Bonnie returns to Amber Ridge after being away for 13 years, and almost immediately, she becomes a target for townspeople who blame her for the death of her high school boyfriend. I’ll admit…she’s a better person than I am, because I would have been throwing people in that town under the bus without hesitation. At times, Bonnie’s martyrdom frustrated me; people treat her terribly, and she often just absorbs it without pushing back.
Zane is new to town and owns the local gym. A former UFC fighter with a military background, he carries plenty of baggage of his own. He repeatedly pushes Bonnie away in an effort to protect her, believing that his issues would only compound hers. This was understandable, even if it was sometimes maddening.
🎙️ Narration: Performed by Laura Horowitz and Jason Clarke, the audio was excellent. Both narrators did a fantastic job capturing the fear, angst, and growing love between the characters. You could really feel the emotional depth their voices brought to the story.
As always, thank you Blue Nose Audio for the ALC!
We were first introduced to Bonnie and Zane in previous books of the series, where we’re given a glimpse into the “unfinished” business that haunts them both. This book picks up after Bonnie returns to Amber Ridge after being away for 13 years, and almost immediately, she becomes a target for townspeople who blame her for the death of her high school boyfriend. I’ll admit…she’s a better person than I am, because I would have been throwing people in that town under the bus without hesitation. At times, Bonnie’s martyrdom frustrated me; people treat her terribly, and she often just absorbs it without pushing back.
Zane is new to town and owns the local gym. A former UFC fighter with a military background, he carries plenty of baggage of his own. He repeatedly pushes Bonnie away in an effort to protect her, believing that his issues would only compound hers. This was understandable, even if it was sometimes maddening.
🎙️ Narration: Performed by Laura Horowitz and Jason Clarke, the audio was excellent. Both narrators did a fantastic job capturing the fear, angst, and growing love between the characters. You could really feel the emotional depth their voices brought to the story.
As always, thank you Blue Nose Audio for the ALC!
January 10, 2026
I'm sad to see the end of the Amber Ridge series but what a bang to go out on! Bonnie has been mentioned a few times throughout the books and her story didn't disappoint as truth about the Graduation Night party is finally revealed. Both Bonnie and Zane have events in their past which have followed them to the present and the story flips between the two plotlines. There is plenty of action and suspense, and I was suspicious of everyone as Bonnie and Zane try to work out who is behind the attacks on Bonnie.
Laura Horowitz is a new to me narrator and I enjoyed her take on Bonnie who despite having put up with false accusations for years, is so resilient and is a much bigger person that I am as I would 100% have set the record straight! Jason Clarke is fantastic as always as the gruff Zane with a protective streak a mile long. Both these characters have walls built up high but are drawn to each other like magnets with a chemistry that smoulders until it combusts.
The final chapter gives some hints at the next series which looks to follow Ethan in Deep River. I already know I am going to love them just after that group chat alone!
My interpretation of the star system;
3 stars - I enjoyed it; would read the author again
4 stars - I really liked it; I am invested and definitely want more from this author/series
5 stars - I loved it; I engaged with this book completely until I finished it and it is one I will re-read
Laura Horowitz is a new to me narrator and I enjoyed her take on Bonnie who despite having put up with false accusations for years, is so resilient and is a much bigger person that I am as I would 100% have set the record straight! Jason Clarke is fantastic as always as the gruff Zane with a protective streak a mile long. Both these characters have walls built up high but are drawn to each other like magnets with a chemistry that smoulders until it combusts.
The final chapter gives some hints at the next series which looks to follow Ethan in Deep River. I already know I am going to love them just after that group chat alone!
My interpretation of the star system;
3 stars - I enjoyed it; would read the author again
4 stars - I really liked it; I am invested and definitely want more from this author/series
5 stars - I loved it; I engaged with this book completely until I finished it and it is one I will re-read
January 12, 2026
𝕒 𝕦 𝕕 𝕚 𝕠 𝕣 𝕖 𝕔 & 𝕣 𝕖 𝕧 𝕚 𝕖 𝕨
🌟:4 🌶️:2 🎧:5
With the teaser at the end of Unchained, I had a gut feeling that I was going to fall in love with Unfinished.. and I’m so happy that my gut was right!! Unfinished finished me. 🥹
Bonnie and Zane are incredible together!! Their story and dynamic was amazing and their chemistry was so palpable. My heart was so broken for Bonnie and Zane and everything that they’ve been through separately, and together. But through all of it, these two persevered, and their love grew to heights they didn’t know it could reach. Hearing that, and experiencing that in audio was such an emotional experience that did such justice to the ending of this series.
I’m not normally one for third person pov, but I have to say, Nyssa writes it so beautifully. I honestly don’t even notice after a small adjustment. Nyssa’s writing is that transformative, that I’m more focused on the characters and the scenes she builds in my mind. It’s so good!
Holy moly, was the casting of Laura Horowitz and Jason Clarke such a perfect choice for this story!! Both have such strong voices for these characters, and with them performing in duet, I was blown away. This whole series has been so unbelievably good to listen to on audio. Totally underrated!!
Highly recommend this entire series! Especially for my romantic suspense girlies, who love small town mysteries, and mmc’s who fall so hard for their girl. 💕
🌟:4 🌶️:2 🎧:5
With the teaser at the end of Unchained, I had a gut feeling that I was going to fall in love with Unfinished.. and I’m so happy that my gut was right!! Unfinished finished me. 🥹
Bonnie and Zane are incredible together!! Their story and dynamic was amazing and their chemistry was so palpable. My heart was so broken for Bonnie and Zane and everything that they’ve been through separately, and together. But through all of it, these two persevered, and their love grew to heights they didn’t know it could reach. Hearing that, and experiencing that in audio was such an emotional experience that did such justice to the ending of this series.
I’m not normally one for third person pov, but I have to say, Nyssa writes it so beautifully. I honestly don’t even notice after a small adjustment. Nyssa’s writing is that transformative, that I’m more focused on the characters and the scenes she builds in my mind. It’s so good!
Holy moly, was the casting of Laura Horowitz and Jason Clarke such a perfect choice for this story!! Both have such strong voices for these characters, and with them performing in duet, I was blown away. This whole series has been so unbelievably good to listen to on audio. Totally underrated!!
Highly recommend this entire series! Especially for my romantic suspense girlies, who love small town mysteries, and mmc’s who fall so hard for their girl. 💕
Review of advance copy received from Author
I have been so excited for this book ever since Zane came onto the scene in Indie's book!
Unfinished is book 6 of the Amber Ridge series by Nyssa and is a perfect ending to another wonderful series!
Nyssa always knows how to deliver a well paced, romantic suspense novel with top tier alpha males that are protective of their love interests.
Bonnie is back in town after fleeing 13 years ago when her boyfriend died due to drink driving and the town turned against her. Now she is back, and those that had a vendetta against her still hold the grudge, only the stakes and danger is higher than ever before.
Enter Zane who sees the unfair mistreatment that Bonnie is suffering with and steps in to defend her on more than one occasion. Sparks fly and love is ignited between the two where a deep bond is formed. But Zane has his own demons that has come back to haunt him, and his old enemies that he got locked up have been let lose on the small town of Amber Ridge putting everyone in danger.
Unfinished has the tropes of small town, found family, former UFC fighter MMC, returning home FMC, friends to lovers, romantic suspense and did I mention next door neighbours??
With the small hint of what is to come next from Nyssa in the epilogue, I can't wait to see the next story unfold and see the development of the side characters we have only had a glimpse of until now.
Unfinished is book 6 of the Amber Ridge series by Nyssa and is a perfect ending to another wonderful series!
Nyssa always knows how to deliver a well paced, romantic suspense novel with top tier alpha males that are protective of their love interests.
Bonnie is back in town after fleeing 13 years ago when her boyfriend died due to drink driving and the town turned against her. Now she is back, and those that had a vendetta against her still hold the grudge, only the stakes and danger is higher than ever before.
Enter Zane who sees the unfair mistreatment that Bonnie is suffering with and steps in to defend her on more than one occasion. Sparks fly and love is ignited between the two where a deep bond is formed. But Zane has his own demons that has come back to haunt him, and his old enemies that he got locked up have been let lose on the small town of Amber Ridge putting everyone in danger.
Unfinished has the tropes of small town, found family, former UFC fighter MMC, returning home FMC, friends to lovers, romantic suspense and did I mention next door neighbours??
With the small hint of what is to come next from Nyssa in the epilogue, I can't wait to see the next story unfold and see the development of the side characters we have only had a glimpse of until now.
January 9, 2026
I knew I would love Zane and Bonnie’s story and I wasn’t wrong! It was a fabulous ending to a fabulous series. This book was more angsty and adrenaline-filled than the previous books. Both characters had heavy pasts that collided in this book in wonderfully emotional ways. One of the things I liked about this book is that neither Zane nor Bonnie had led perfect lives and their past mistakes defined who they became as adults in their 30s. We had learned a little about Bonnie in the books about her siblings but learning her entire story and watching her get her HEA and reunite with her siblings was very rewarding. This book can be read as a stand-alone but do yourself a favor and read the entire Amber Ridge Series. I love that Ms. Kathryn always writes an ending that gets you excited for the next book. It looks like we’re heading to a new town for a new team of SEALs…yes, please! I enjoyed the audio production of this book performed in duet style by Jason Clarke and new-to-me narrator Laura Horowitz. Jason does wounded, protective military man with perfection and Laura portrayed Bonnie exactly as her personality had been depicted in previous books in the series. Overall, a 5-star read with great narration and 3 spicy peppers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I have been so excited to read Bonnie and Zane’s story since the end of Noah’s book, and it was absolutely amazing! This one had more danger and suspense than the others in the series, and the spice was spicing in the best way! I loved the mystery behind Zane and his past, and uncovering it a little at a time. And I absolutely loved the way he desperately wanted to protect Bonnie. Bonnie’s story was just heartbreaking! The way some of the people of the town turned on her, and her running away…was just so sad! But this girl’s bravery was a thing of beauty. The way she refused to let the few bad people ruin her moving back home took amazing courage and strength. And the way she only broke down for Zane because he was her safe space was just beautiful. I loved the story of these two MCs. They overcome so much on their journey to their HEA, and I just loved how Nyssa wrote their story. These two characters were so beautifully flawed, but the way they were stronger together was amazing to read. This was such a good ending to this series, like literal icing on an already delicious cake! I love the teaser glimpse we get into the new series, as well!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Bonnie ran away from her hometown at 18, when the whole town seemed to blame her for the tragedy with her boyfriends and then her parents. 13 years later, she is back with her brother’s encouragement. While her family all welcome her with open arms, other people in town are not so kind. Her dead boyfriend’s parents still hate her and want to keep her out of the town. She has been attached several times, verbally and/or physically, and yet she still has not told the reason why she left her boyfriend that night. Zane is new in town to forget his own trouble. He is not as lucky as Bonnie to have family support. In fact, his only family wants him dead. Zane witnesses several of Bonnie’s attack. They actually live in the same apartment building on the same floor. He finds their chemistry irresistible. After Bonnie is attached in their building, Bonnie can’t deny the only safe place is with Zane. The plot is pretty smart and intriguing. Not only there is a local threat to Bonnie, there is also a prison break that looms over both of them. They find the truth and true love through the struggle. This is an amazing story. I was up all night reading it.
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