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Bright Light Dark Thunder
Not yet published
Expected 26 Feb 26Walker
I was a soldier. A terrible weapon forged in secret.
Now I'm a ghost.
I've exiled myself to a remote cabin in Montana, where I intend to live out the rest of my days, buried as deep as my secrets.
Until I run into a stunning woman in a prison uniform. Or rather she ran into me, a weapon in her hand and secrets of her own chasing her. Naomi Barrett is beautiful, smart, capable and in a whole lot of trouble.
I should leave well enough alone. But when I realize how much danger she’s truly in and that I’m the only man who can save her, I don’t have a choice. Some battles choose you. And when my past threatens her as well, I’m forced to become the soldier I swore I never would be again.
On the run, I’m fighting a losing battle against my own heart as I fall for the girl with pale blue eyes.
I’d burn down the world to keep her safe. Even if it costs me what’s left of my soul.
I was trained to be the perfect soldier. But I never expected to find someone worth fighting for.
Bright Light Dark Thunder is a pulse-pounding military romantic suspense adventure filled with passion, spice, and a hard-won HEA.
I was a soldier. A terrible weapon forged in secret.
Now I'm a ghost.
I've exiled myself to a remote cabin in Montana, where I intend to live out the rest of my days, buried as deep as my secrets.
Until I run into a stunning woman in a prison uniform. Or rather she ran into me, a weapon in her hand and secrets of her own chasing her. Naomi Barrett is beautiful, smart, capable and in a whole lot of trouble.
I should leave well enough alone. But when I realize how much danger she’s truly in and that I’m the only man who can save her, I don’t have a choice. Some battles choose you. And when my past threatens her as well, I’m forced to become the soldier I swore I never would be again.
On the run, I’m fighting a losing battle against my own heart as I fall for the girl with pale blue eyes.
I’d burn down the world to keep her safe. Even if it costs me what’s left of my soul.
I was trained to be the perfect soldier. But I never expected to find someone worth fighting for.
Bright Light Dark Thunder is a pulse-pounding military romantic suspense adventure filled with passion, spice, and a hard-won HEA.
270 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication February 26, 2026
32 people are currently reading
556 people want to read
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December 18, 2025A male-written romance?! A romantic suspense—my new favorite sub-genre—with military themes?! And written and narrated by one of the all-time best male romance narrators?!
YES. YES. YES. Sign me up immediately—I need this the second it drops!!
YES. YES. YES. Sign me up immediately—I need this the second it drops!!
February 13, 2026
ALC. 5 stars for story and performance!!
Connor gave us a cinematic, fast paced story that I couldn’t not put down. Enjoyed every minute!
If you love books by AL Jackson, Catherine Cowles, SM West, Susan Stoker, or Riley Edwards- you’ll enjoy this one.
*Ex military hero with secrets
*FMC on the run
*Protector
*Age Gap
*Touch Her and Die
*Action/Suspense
Connor gave us a cinematic, fast paced story that I couldn’t not put down. Enjoyed every minute!
If you love books by AL Jackson, Catherine Cowles, SM West, Susan Stoker, or Riley Edwards- you’ll enjoy this one.
*Ex military hero with secrets
*FMC on the run
*Protector
*Age Gap
*Touch Her and Die
*Action/Suspense
Review of advance copy received from Author
ALC Review - Thanks, Connor for the gift.
Buckle up, take a breath, brace for impact and dive right into Bright Light Dark Thunder. The debut novel by romance narrator and author Connor Crais will hit you in the feels while making you bite your nails. A perfect mix of Romance (capital R) with suspense, it takes you on a wild ride.
Meet Walker, former special forces soldier who lives in a secluded cabin in nowhere Montana. His soul is tortured by things he has seen and done in the past and he has numbed himself out. He is a ghost.
Enter Naomi, a fugitive from the law who immediately turns his world upside down. He's never in his life thought he would be held at gunpoint by a tiny, starved, filthy, young thing in an orange jumpsuit. And the biggest surprise? The irresistible urge to protect her. Together they embark on journey neither one ever thought was in their future.
I was absolutely engrossed in this story. Walker, a classic 'touch her and die' reluctant hero and Naomi, who will give you the false idea that she is a 'damsel in distress' , will take you on a journey of gasp inducing twists and turns. Connor manages to brilliantly and seamlessly navigate between two genres: the thriller side of it makes you feel like you are in an action movie. The Romance? He's proven time and again that he can 'put the man in romance' and he gives us all the feels, the swoon and the steam of a romance novel.
Having it told almost exclusively from Walker's POV was a great choice. You meet Naomi through Walker's eyes and, since Connor certainly understands that you show and not tell, you don't need to be in her head to get to know her. Walker takes you through it.
Very well developed characters, anxiety inducing non stop action and a hard earned HEA. A perfect combo!
The audiobook is narrated by the author himself and we get top tier Connor. He's devastatingly alluring as Walker, scary and creepy as the villain(s) and vulnerable and smart as Naomi. For the accent lovers like myself, you get a sweet, subtle Texan twang that is one 'darlin' ' short of giving you the vapors!
10 out of 10. No notes. You get a gold star. Well done, sir!
Content notes: (including but not limited to) violence, blood, gun use, child harmed by an animal, hunting. Mentions of torture, human trafficking, drug trafficking, biological warfare and military operations
Military Romance | Romantic Suspense | Tortured Soul Hero | Heroine in Danger | Age Gap| Morally Gray | Slow Burn | Road Trip | Touch Her And Die | Who Did This To You?
Buckle up, take a breath, brace for impact and dive right into Bright Light Dark Thunder. The debut novel by romance narrator and author Connor Crais will hit you in the feels while making you bite your nails. A perfect mix of Romance (capital R) with suspense, it takes you on a wild ride.
Meet Walker, former special forces soldier who lives in a secluded cabin in nowhere Montana. His soul is tortured by things he has seen and done in the past and he has numbed himself out. He is a ghost.
Enter Naomi, a fugitive from the law who immediately turns his world upside down. He's never in his life thought he would be held at gunpoint by a tiny, starved, filthy, young thing in an orange jumpsuit. And the biggest surprise? The irresistible urge to protect her. Together they embark on journey neither one ever thought was in their future.
I was absolutely engrossed in this story. Walker, a classic 'touch her and die' reluctant hero and Naomi, who will give you the false idea that she is a 'damsel in distress' , will take you on a journey of gasp inducing twists and turns. Connor manages to brilliantly and seamlessly navigate between two genres: the thriller side of it makes you feel like you are in an action movie. The Romance? He's proven time and again that he can 'put the man in romance' and he gives us all the feels, the swoon and the steam of a romance novel.
Having it told almost exclusively from Walker's POV was a great choice. You meet Naomi through Walker's eyes and, since Connor certainly understands that you show and not tell, you don't need to be in her head to get to know her. Walker takes you through it.
Very well developed characters, anxiety inducing non stop action and a hard earned HEA. A perfect combo!
The audiobook is narrated by the author himself and we get top tier Connor. He's devastatingly alluring as Walker, scary and creepy as the villain(s) and vulnerable and smart as Naomi. For the accent lovers like myself, you get a sweet, subtle Texan twang that is one 'darlin' ' short of giving you the vapors!
10 out of 10. No notes. You get a gold star. Well done, sir!
Content notes: (including but not limited to) violence, blood, gun use, child harmed by an animal, hunting. Mentions of torture, human trafficking, drug trafficking, biological warfare and military operations
Military Romance | Romantic Suspense | Tortured Soul Hero | Heroine in Danger | Age Gap| Morally Gray | Slow Burn | Road Trip | Touch Her And Die | Who Did This To You?
Review of advance copy received from Author
**Beta Read/ ALC Review**
What a heart-stopping, high-stakes RIDE! Bright Light Dark Thunder by Connor Crais was a mysterious, swoony, and action-packed romance that kept me on the edge of my seat from start to finish. Written from the single male point of view, Connor’s masculine style had me in a chokehold with each chapter, anxiously anticipating what twist and turn Walker and Naomi would face next. Right from their hostage-like prison suit-wearing meet cute, I couldn’t get enough of Walker and Naomi’s alluring and addictive chemistry. This and so much more had me rooting for these two to take down their enemies and find true happiness together. Walker’s “burn the world down” bad ass military demeanor mixed with Naomi’s bold, brave, inquisitive nature made these two undeniable and unstoppable together. Plus, the slow-burning tension and explosive steam between this couple was intense and just plain hot!
Overall, I LOVED this book. If you are a fan of a suspenseful romance with a hot guarded ex military operative, a former CIA analyst on the run, an orange prison suit meet cute, a tortured hero with a past, close proximity, action packed events, uncovering dangerous secrets, hidden identity, facing your past, helpful partners, desperation-filled steam, a cold blooded villain, a jaw dropping climax, and a HEA that will leave your heart sated and secure, then you will love Naomi and Walker’s story. I am looking forward to more from Connor Crais.
** Audiobook Review **
Connor Crais performs this audiobook in captivating solo narration, and wow, is this man perfection performing his own words. Connor creates a distinct, charming Texas drawl that is authentic and raw, making you feel all of his conflicted emotions, tempting desires, and fierce protectiveness that Walker has to give. His softer, gentler tone for Naomi adds a certain vulnerability that will have you admiring her determination and strength. Plus, Connor’s cold, ruthless voice for Logan, the villain, is chilling and haunting in the best ways. The chemistry Connor delivers between Walker and Naomi is compelling and will make you blush and swoon all at once.
What a heart-stopping, high-stakes RIDE! Bright Light Dark Thunder by Connor Crais was a mysterious, swoony, and action-packed romance that kept me on the edge of my seat from start to finish. Written from the single male point of view, Connor’s masculine style had me in a chokehold with each chapter, anxiously anticipating what twist and turn Walker and Naomi would face next. Right from their hostage-like prison suit-wearing meet cute, I couldn’t get enough of Walker and Naomi’s alluring and addictive chemistry. This and so much more had me rooting for these two to take down their enemies and find true happiness together. Walker’s “burn the world down” bad ass military demeanor mixed with Naomi’s bold, brave, inquisitive nature made these two undeniable and unstoppable together. Plus, the slow-burning tension and explosive steam between this couple was intense and just plain hot!
Overall, I LOVED this book. If you are a fan of a suspenseful romance with a hot guarded ex military operative, a former CIA analyst on the run, an orange prison suit meet cute, a tortured hero with a past, close proximity, action packed events, uncovering dangerous secrets, hidden identity, facing your past, helpful partners, desperation-filled steam, a cold blooded villain, a jaw dropping climax, and a HEA that will leave your heart sated and secure, then you will love Naomi and Walker’s story. I am looking forward to more from Connor Crais.
** Audiobook Review **
Connor Crais performs this audiobook in captivating solo narration, and wow, is this man perfection performing his own words. Connor creates a distinct, charming Texas drawl that is authentic and raw, making you feel all of his conflicted emotions, tempting desires, and fierce protectiveness that Walker has to give. His softer, gentler tone for Naomi adds a certain vulnerability that will have you admiring her determination and strength. Plus, Connor’s cold, ruthless voice for Logan, the villain, is chilling and haunting in the best ways. The chemistry Connor delivers between Walker and Naomi is compelling and will make you blush and swoon all at once.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Gripping Blend of Military Grit and Heartfelt Romance
Bright Light, Dark Thunder is a standout read that masterfully balances high-stakes military action with a deeply personal romance. What initially drew me to this book was the promise of a military-themed story, but what kept me turning the pages was the incredible substance and realism found within its chapters.
The atmosphere strikes a unique chord—it’s dark and filled with tension, yet peppered with a sense of humor that makes the world feel lived-in and authentic. There is a "this could actually happen" quality to the writing that grounded the more intense moments of suspense and action.
Characters & Pacing
The standout element for me was the internal journey of the protagonist, Walker. His struggle with self-doubt is something I think every reader can relate to. Watching him navigate his own internal battles while slowly beginning to see himself through Naomi’s eyes was incredibly moving.
The pacing was executed perfectly. It begins as a compelling slow burn, building tension and character depth before picking up speed the moment Walker finally "lets go."
Final Thoughts
The writing is detailed and easy to follow, weaving in necessary backstory without ever losing the reader. While I usually finish a book wanting more, I walked away from this one feeling genuinely satisfied with how the journey concluded.
Whether you are a fan of military thrillers, suspense, or a slow-burn romance, this book truly has something for everyone. Highly recommended
Bright Light, Dark Thunder is a standout read that masterfully balances high-stakes military action with a deeply personal romance. What initially drew me to this book was the promise of a military-themed story, but what kept me turning the pages was the incredible substance and realism found within its chapters.
The atmosphere strikes a unique chord—it’s dark and filled with tension, yet peppered with a sense of humor that makes the world feel lived-in and authentic. There is a "this could actually happen" quality to the writing that grounded the more intense moments of suspense and action.
Characters & Pacing
The standout element for me was the internal journey of the protagonist, Walker. His struggle with self-doubt is something I think every reader can relate to. Watching him navigate his own internal battles while slowly beginning to see himself through Naomi’s eyes was incredibly moving.
The pacing was executed perfectly. It begins as a compelling slow burn, building tension and character depth before picking up speed the moment Walker finally "lets go."
Final Thoughts
The writing is detailed and easy to follow, weaving in necessary backstory without ever losing the reader. While I usually finish a book wanting more, I walked away from this one feeling genuinely satisfied with how the journey concluded.
Whether you are a fan of military thrillers, suspense, or a slow-burn romance, this book truly has something for everyone. Highly recommended
Review of advance copy
WOW. My first read from this author and definitely not my last. I would give it 100 stars if I could.
Walker is a broken ex soldier, a ghost, lost in a wilderness of guilt and memories made of nightmares.
Naomi a CIA analyst, on the run from people she should have been able to trust.
The two together are a powerhouse who reluctantly join forces to save both of their lives and bring the truth to the people who can stop the horrors being hidden in the middle of their own ranks.
This story is fast paced, to the point, no flim flam, just all out action, with a little spice thrown in for good measure. Walker and Naomi are reluctant partners in a war that becomes more dangerous when a ghost from Walker's past becomes part of the hunt.
Naomi is not portrayed as a weak women who needs Walker for protection, she is strong and gritty, ready to take on the world if that's what it takes. At the same time she is a little vulnerable at times and she and Walker have a humour that eases the tension when needed. I love that Connor has not given us a timid, I need saving heroine, but a woman who is ready to give it all to stand up for the truth. Walker is a man who has lost everything but may just find his way back through this amazing woman.
I can't recommend this book highly enough, I read it in one day, I couldn't put it down. I have been a fan of Connor The Narrator for a long time, now I have another reason to stalk his work. I cannot wait to get hold of the audio book, it'd going to be epic.
Walker is a broken ex soldier, a ghost, lost in a wilderness of guilt and memories made of nightmares.
Naomi a CIA analyst, on the run from people she should have been able to trust.
The two together are a powerhouse who reluctantly join forces to save both of their lives and bring the truth to the people who can stop the horrors being hidden in the middle of their own ranks.
This story is fast paced, to the point, no flim flam, just all out action, with a little spice thrown in for good measure. Walker and Naomi are reluctant partners in a war that becomes more dangerous when a ghost from Walker's past becomes part of the hunt.
Naomi is not portrayed as a weak women who needs Walker for protection, she is strong and gritty, ready to take on the world if that's what it takes. At the same time she is a little vulnerable at times and she and Walker have a humour that eases the tension when needed. I love that Connor has not given us a timid, I need saving heroine, but a woman who is ready to give it all to stand up for the truth. Walker is a man who has lost everything but may just find his way back through this amazing woman.
I can't recommend this book highly enough, I read it in one day, I couldn't put it down. I have been a fan of Connor The Narrator for a long time, now I have another reason to stalk his work. I cannot wait to get hold of the audio book, it'd going to be epic.
Review of advance copy received from Author
*Beta read/ALC Review*
Buckle up buttercup, this solo debut from acclaimed romance author and narrator Connor Crais is a wild ride. Bright Light Dark Thunder is everything I want in a romantic suspense and more.
If you love action movies like Red, Captain America, Rambo, Mission Impossible, or Jason Bourne, you’ll devour this. It reads like a movie script packed with sharp character work, instant attraction, a guarded yet protective hero, a brilliant badass heroine, villains you love to hate, and plenty of spice and romance on the run.
Walker, a former soldier, and Naomi, a mysterious woman on the run, team up in this intriguing and suspenseful saga, delivering heart-pounding shootouts, explosions, and daring escapes. Add forced proximity, only one bed, a shared enemy, fighting for their lives, and undeniable chemistry and things heat up fast.
The action balances perfectly with rich character arcs, intimate moments, twisty suspense, and a satisfying and hard won HEA.
And the audiobook? Next level. Experiencing Connor Crais narrate his own words, in that sexy yet vulnerable baritone, adds a whole new layer of immersion and emotion. It’s phenomenal.
If your partner/friend/book bestie loves action but avoids romance, hand them this book, conversion guaranteed.
Clear your schedule because his one’s a total page-turner and it will be near impossible to put down.
Buckle up buttercup, this solo debut from acclaimed romance author and narrator Connor Crais is a wild ride. Bright Light Dark Thunder is everything I want in a romantic suspense and more.
If you love action movies like Red, Captain America, Rambo, Mission Impossible, or Jason Bourne, you’ll devour this. It reads like a movie script packed with sharp character work, instant attraction, a guarded yet protective hero, a brilliant badass heroine, villains you love to hate, and plenty of spice and romance on the run.
Walker, a former soldier, and Naomi, a mysterious woman on the run, team up in this intriguing and suspenseful saga, delivering heart-pounding shootouts, explosions, and daring escapes. Add forced proximity, only one bed, a shared enemy, fighting for their lives, and undeniable chemistry and things heat up fast.
The action balances perfectly with rich character arcs, intimate moments, twisty suspense, and a satisfying and hard won HEA.
And the audiobook? Next level. Experiencing Connor Crais narrate his own words, in that sexy yet vulnerable baritone, adds a whole new layer of immersion and emotion. It’s phenomenal.
If your partner/friend/book bestie loves action but avoids romance, hand them this book, conversion guaranteed.
Clear your schedule because his one’s a total page-turner and it will be near impossible to put down.
Review of advance copy received from Author
4⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Alc Review
Tropes:
🤎Military Romance
🩶Romantic Suspense
🤎Tortured Hero
🩶Heroine in Danger
🤎Age Gap
🩶Slow Burn
🤎Touch Her And Die 💀
This is the debut novel by romance narrator and author Connor Crais This is a mostly military suspense with some romance intermingled and gives us the story of Walker and Naomi.
Walker, is a former soldier, special forces to be exact.Walker is currently living a secluded lifestyle in the middle of nowhere in a cabin in Montana. He’s a tortured shell of a man. Who lives with the things he’s done and seen in his past.
Naomi, is on the run from the law. , a fugitive and someone who gives a Walker a run for his money. She’s a bit of a badass and together they team up.
Walker has this instant attraction to this tiny woman, who as it turns out is an CIA Analyst. Walker has this need to protect her and get to the bottom of everything.
Connor Crais performs this audiobook in solo narration. Which was done flawlessly as he had to navigate two worlds and weave them together. The suspense, the action and the softer romance side. As well as playing different characters, the good and the bad guys but he did this flawlessly. Connor also showed us the raw chemistry between Naomi and Walker as they navigate their relationship.
This is a great listen and for anyone who is a fan of things like mission impossible or Bourne this is really right up your alley and definitely grab this one.
Alc Review
Tropes:
🤎Military Romance
🩶Romantic Suspense
🤎Tortured Hero
🩶Heroine in Danger
🤎Age Gap
🩶Slow Burn
🤎Touch Her And Die 💀
This is the debut novel by romance narrator and author Connor Crais This is a mostly military suspense with some romance intermingled and gives us the story of Walker and Naomi.
Walker, is a former soldier, special forces to be exact.Walker is currently living a secluded lifestyle in the middle of nowhere in a cabin in Montana. He’s a tortured shell of a man. Who lives with the things he’s done and seen in his past.
Naomi, is on the run from the law. , a fugitive and someone who gives a Walker a run for his money. She’s a bit of a badass and together they team up.
Walker has this instant attraction to this tiny woman, who as it turns out is an CIA Analyst. Walker has this need to protect her and get to the bottom of everything.
Connor Crais performs this audiobook in solo narration. Which was done flawlessly as he had to navigate two worlds and weave them together. The suspense, the action and the softer romance side. As well as playing different characters, the good and the bad guys but he did this flawlessly. Connor also showed us the raw chemistry between Naomi and Walker as they navigate their relationship.
This is a great listen and for anyone who is a fan of things like mission impossible or Bourne this is really right up your alley and definitely grab this one.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Wow. Just… wow.
After listening to Connor Crais narrate so many of my all-time favorite audiobooks, I was beyond excited to see what he would create as an author himself. And let me tell you — he did NOT disappoint.
Bright Light Dark Thunder absolutely hooked me from the start. The military suspense was intense and gripping, the kind that makes it nearly impossible to press pause. Every chapter raised the stakes, and I was completely locked in. You can really feel the authenticity and adrenaline woven into the story.
And let’s talk about the heat. 🔥 It was perfectly done — passionate, emotional, and yes… you absolutely get that signature Connor Crais vibe we all know and love when he narrates those scenes 😏. The tension, the delivery, the chemistry? On point.
Walker and Naomi were so easy to connect with. I was rooting for them from the very beginning. They went through absolute hell and back, and every obstacle made their journey feel real and hard-earned. That HEA? So, so worth the wait. It hit in all the best ways.
Connor proved he’s just as talented behind the keyboard as he is behind the mic. I cannot wait to see what he writes next. If this is just the beginning, we are in for something special. 💥
Thank you so much for the ALC, Connor!
After listening to Connor Crais narrate so many of my all-time favorite audiobooks, I was beyond excited to see what he would create as an author himself. And let me tell you — he did NOT disappoint.
Bright Light Dark Thunder absolutely hooked me from the start. The military suspense was intense and gripping, the kind that makes it nearly impossible to press pause. Every chapter raised the stakes, and I was completely locked in. You can really feel the authenticity and adrenaline woven into the story.
And let’s talk about the heat. 🔥 It was perfectly done — passionate, emotional, and yes… you absolutely get that signature Connor Crais vibe we all know and love when he narrates those scenes 😏. The tension, the delivery, the chemistry? On point.
Walker and Naomi were so easy to connect with. I was rooting for them from the very beginning. They went through absolute hell and back, and every obstacle made their journey feel real and hard-earned. That HEA? So, so worth the wait. It hit in all the best ways.
Connor proved he’s just as talented behind the keyboard as he is behind the mic. I cannot wait to see what he writes next. If this is just the beginning, we are in for something special. 💥
Thank you so much for the ALC, Connor!
February 14, 2026
Take the utterly male energy of Tom Clancy or Robert Ludlum distilled into the ultimate complex and guarded male main character. Add the appreciation of a strong female main character and unabashedly romantic love story gleaned from narrating hundreds of romance audiobooks and you have the perfect combination that is author Connor Crais. He has written a book as fast paced and tense as a Jason Bourne thriller. Yet it has the slow, sensual moments of the best romance books. Walker and Naomi are characters that will stay with me. Oh, and did I mention the truly cruel and terrifying villain? Yep, we get one of those too.
This book has everything I need for a riveting military thriller. Crais describes the settings and action with the kind of detail that lets me see the story like a film in my mind. Of course, that is aided by his own narration of the audiobook. While usually I do prefer duet narration, if anyone can pull off a solo narration it is the author who also happens to do the best male as female voice acting I know. And the Texas twang of Walker compared to the soft, deadly purr of the villain, Logan? Chef’s kiss.
Thank you to the author for allowing me to listen to and review an advanced copy of this audiobook.
I hear there just might be a sequel…
This book has everything I need for a riveting military thriller. Crais describes the settings and action with the kind of detail that lets me see the story like a film in my mind. Of course, that is aided by his own narration of the audiobook. While usually I do prefer duet narration, if anyone can pull off a solo narration it is the author who also happens to do the best male as female voice acting I know. And the Texas twang of Walker compared to the soft, deadly purr of the villain, Logan? Chef’s kiss.
Thank you to the author for allowing me to listen to and review an advanced copy of this audiobook.
I hear there just might be a sequel…
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was really excited to hear when one of my favorite narrators was writing is own book. And then when I found out it was a military suspense (with a splash of romance), I was even more intrigued.
I really enjoyed Walker and Naomi's suspenseful romance. I never knew what they were going to encounter as the story unfolded. They had some intense chemistry right from the start and I loved to see how their relationship grew despite the circumstances they were both facing.
Naomi was a very strong heroine and I really loved her and how she handled herself and Walker when they met. She wasn't going to let anyone get anything over on her. Loved when they started working together for the same goal in the end...to hunt down the bad guys and find their forever love in the process.
Connor also narrated this entire audiobook. He has been a favorite for years now, and he is so talented with voicing so many different characters. You could feel the passion from Walker and Naomi, as well as the intenseness for the situations they found themselves in.
I am really excited to see where Connor's author career takes him next.
I really enjoyed Walker and Naomi's suspenseful romance. I never knew what they were going to encounter as the story unfolded. They had some intense chemistry right from the start and I loved to see how their relationship grew despite the circumstances they were both facing.
Naomi was a very strong heroine and I really loved her and how she handled herself and Walker when they met. She wasn't going to let anyone get anything over on her. Loved when they started working together for the same goal in the end...to hunt down the bad guys and find their forever love in the process.
Connor also narrated this entire audiobook. He has been a favorite for years now, and he is so talented with voicing so many different characters. You could feel the passion from Walker and Naomi, as well as the intenseness for the situations they found themselves in.
I am really excited to see where Connor's author career takes him next.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
So I’m going to preface this by saying that I haven’t actually read a book in over a year. I’ve become addicted to audiobooks, but this was too good to pass up. Since this needs to be a spoiler free review I won’t go into my usual favorite parts. I’ll save that for after the audio next week. What I can say is that you are going to love this book. It was emotional, heartwarming, suspenseful and even a touch funny. Walker is the type of character you can feel. His struggles become your struggles. His pain becomes your pain. His feelings become your feelings. The emotional intelligence of this story is strong. I knew based on @connorcrais other books that this one would be good but I was truly impressed. I will say that the most touching part was the acknowledgments. I usually skip right over them but it was obvious the gratitude @connorcrais felt towards these people. Now if only I could get my husband to read some “instruction manuals”! Now I can’t wait for the audio!#connorcrais #greypromotions #brightlightdarkthunder
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was such a pleasant surprise! A male-written romantic military suspense by one of the best narrators? I had high hopes for this one, and guess what?
It delivered.
Walker was a ghost, stealthily moving through life after leaving his military past behind. Until Naomi caught him in a rare moment of weakness, and she brought her own share of secrets. They were instantly drawn to each other, and quickly had them questioning everything they knew.
This was so fast paced, with trauma, secrets, action, and yes, romance! I really enjoyed that the book was mostly all Walker's POV, and I didn't think it took anything away from Naomi's character strength. There was the perfect amount of spice, and it hit!
I really enjoyed this read, and honestly didn't want to put it down! My only complaint is that it wasn't longer, because I wasn't ready for it to end.
It delivered.
Walker was a ghost, stealthily moving through life after leaving his military past behind. Until Naomi caught him in a rare moment of weakness, and she brought her own share of secrets. They were instantly drawn to each other, and quickly had them questioning everything they knew.
This was so fast paced, with trauma, secrets, action, and yes, romance! I really enjoyed that the book was mostly all Walker's POV, and I didn't think it took anything away from Naomi's character strength. There was the perfect amount of spice, and it hit!
I really enjoyed this read, and honestly didn't want to put it down! My only complaint is that it wasn't longer, because I wasn't ready for it to end.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was looking for a romantic suspense to really hook me and Connor Crais did that with this one!
Walker had been off the grid for a long time when he crosses paths with Naomi and the action was nonstop for the two from there! I couldn't put the book down and finished in one sitting.
I loved that the book was mainly written from Walker's POV and we see his feelings for Naomi start to shift and develop into something very protective and they navigate their situation. The other POV told in third person in the story was definitely an unexpected surprise that I loved seeing.
Overall, I really enjoyed this romantic suspense and I could see myself reading more from the author if this was expanded into a series!
Walker had been off the grid for a long time when he crosses paths with Naomi and the action was nonstop for the two from there! I couldn't put the book down and finished in one sitting.
I loved that the book was mainly written from Walker's POV and we see his feelings for Naomi start to shift and develop into something very protective and they navigate their situation. The other POV told in third person in the story was definitely an unexpected surprise that I loved seeing.
Overall, I really enjoyed this romantic suspense and I could see myself reading more from the author if this was expanded into a series!
February 14, 2026
“That’s my fucking girl. She’ll battle back from hell if she has to.”
Connor Crais’s first solo writing endeavor and he just hit it out of the park. The writing and the narration were outstanding. I literally couldn’t stop listening to this story. I needed to know what happened with the MCs.
If you love a Bonnie and Clyde, Military, Protector, Touch her and die, or a Suspenseful read/listen, then I definitely recommend this one. I was on the edge of my seat the whole time!
Thank you Connor for the ALC!
Connor Crais’s first solo writing endeavor and he just hit it out of the park. The writing and the narration were outstanding. I literally couldn’t stop listening to this story. I needed to know what happened with the MCs.
If you love a Bonnie and Clyde, Military, Protector, Touch her and die, or a Suspenseful read/listen, then I definitely recommend this one. I was on the edge of my seat the whole time!
Thank you Connor for the ALC!
Review of advance copy
Walker + Naomi
-romantic suspense
-heroine on the run
-ex military tortured hero
-close proximity
-slow burn
-age gap
i loved this & enjoyed the way it was set up too with just walkers pov (mainly) so much more than i expected! (meaning the pov set up, not connor's story) but it was so intricately detailed in the plot that i just was hooked from the get go! loved!
-romantic suspense
-heroine on the run
-ex military tortured hero
-close proximity
-slow burn
-age gap
i loved this & enjoyed the way it was set up too with just walkers pov (mainly) so much more than i expected! (meaning the pov set up, not connor's story) but it was so intricately detailed in the plot that i just was hooked from the get go! loved!
Review of advance copy received from Author
As a suspense reader, I gobbled up this story! And. Want. More! Walker is everything I need in a protector and Naomi is sweet, but make no mistake she has grit.
BLDT is action-packed, full of suspense, and spice!
Also, I NEED Static's backstory and his HEA. (like yesterday!)
BLDT is action-packed, full of suspense, and spice!
Also, I NEED Static's backstory and his HEA. (like yesterday!)
Review of advance copy received from Author
Read it in one go - apart from when a pup puked on my floor… I guess you can say that I couldn’t put it down, until I had to ;)
Thank you Connor and Greys promo for an advanced copy.
Thank you Connor and Greys promo for an advanced copy.
Review of advance copy
Expected publication February 26
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