Reaper: An age-gap, ex's dad MC Romance

by Kate Bonham

The Shackled Sons don’t bow, break, or beg. Their creed is simple—Ride Unbound. No Mercy. Freedom Above All.
But threaten what's theirs, and they become the monsters you whisper about.
In the end, only one rule No Mercy.

Rowan
When the men my ex-boyfriend owes come after me for payment, I know I’m not safe.
They own the cops. They own the city.
There’s only one place no one will touch me...the Shackled Sons MC clubhouse.
And only one man there no one dares cross.

Wyatt “Reaper” Jameson.
Cold. Lethal. Untouchable.
And my ex-boyfriend’s father.

I tell myself I’m here for protection. That I won’t notice how his gaze follows me like a loaded gun…or how safe I feel under his watch.

Reaper
They thought using her would draw my son out. They were wrong.
Rowan is under my protection now.
And anyone who comes for her isn’t sending a message…

They’re signing their death warrant.

Genres: Romance

274 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 13, 2026

About the author

Kate grew up in Western Sydney, in Australia, and remains there today. She has always loved the written word, being influenced by the likes of Edgar Allan Poe, JR Ward and Anne Rice, she ventured into writing at a young age.

Finally taking the plunge in 2016 and publishing for the first time. Ever since, she’s been trying to bring the worlds she’s created in her head to the page for everyone else to enjoy as much as she does.

When she’s not writing, she’s looking after her bevvy of pets including snakes, lizards, axolotls, birds, a turtle and a dog with her husband Kyle.

Reviews

[dee · Rating 1 out of 5]

This is so bad.
The start of the story has a lot of promise but then it gets so far fetched I gave myself a headache from the eye rolling. The only reason i finished the book was because I had no WiFi to download a different book!!

[Kirsten Eliott · Rating 4 out of 5]

Reaper by Kate Bonham was a gritty, addictive MC romance that kept me hooked from start to finish. This story pulled me straight into the dark, dangerous world of the Shackled Sons.

Rowan finds herself in a terrifying situation when her ex-boyfriend’s debts land her in the crosshairs of some very dangerous men. With nowhere safe to turn, she ends up seeking refuge at the Shackled Sons MC clubhouse, under the protection of the one man no one dares to cross: Wyatt “Reaper” Jameson. Cold, ruthless, and completely untouchable… and also her ex-boyfriend’s dad.

I loved the protective, morally-grey energy Reaper brings to the story. He’s brutal when he needs to be, but fiercely loyal and protective of Rowan. Their dynamic is charged from the start, with that constant underlying danger that makes MC romances so addictive. The chemistry between them builds nicely, and Reaper’s “touch her and die” energy was absolutely chef’s kiss.

Rowan was a character I found easy to root for. She’s thrown into an impossible situation but shows strength and resilience throughout the story.

Overall, Reaper is a dark, fast-paced MC romance with danger, possessive protection, and plenty of high-stakes moments. If you enjoy morally grey bikers, intense chemistry, and a story that keeps you turning the pages, this one is definitely worth picking up.

I am looking forward to book 2 in the world of the Shackled Sons

[Nikki'J' · Rating 3 out of 5]

Enter Rowan. Rowan is attacked in the home that she and Trey (Reaper’s son) share. She’s sure that they are coming after her because of Trey and when she ends up in hospital she knows she’s going to need to find a safe place until Trey is back.

Not knowing anyone else who could keep her safe from the Ironborn she heads to Trey’s father and head of the Shackled Sons, Reaper. Reaper makes a space for Rowan promising to keep her safe while starting the hunt to find Trey before the Ironborn.

Sounds like a pretty simple storyline, right? There is more to it though, because Reaper has had a thing for Rowan since Trey introduced her and he’s hated himself for liking the woman his son is dating. Rowan is attracted to Reaper too but he’s older and her ex’s father, but there is more to it then he knows.

Reaper tries to stay away from Rowan apart from keeping her safe, but he struggles to keep how much he wants her to himself and when she returns the attraction there is no holding back.

But the threat to Rowan seems to go deeper than they first thought and they struggle to make sense of what is happening. Keeping her safe puts a strain on the new couple.

Rowan does some things I thought were stupid and didn’t love.

Reaper’s reason for pushing her away seemed ok but then they seemed to change and I felt a little confused.

Overall, I could say it had some flaws, but it was easy to read and had some enjoyable moments. I think the rest of the guys were intriguing and their stories could be worth a look too.

Happy Reading.

[Cris Campisi · Rating 5 out of 5]

In the end, only one rule matters: NO MERCY….
Mercy is something our FMC, Rowan, needs at the start of this book. This book takes you into a dark situation straight off the bat, using this occurrence to highlight the vulnerability and resilience Rowan has, you will fall in love with her feisty character, she does get knocked down but not held back, this woman shakes it off, engages survival mode and gets the help she needs. Now, that help comes in a devastatingly hot as hades package with our MMC Wyatt ‘Reaper’ Jameson, there is an age gap, but this alpha know what he is doing, excuse me while I wipe the drool!!
The main characters have great support characters and I can’t wait to see them get their own books, Maverick is up next, and I really can’t wait to see which direction Chaos takes.
The Shackled Sons series has started off with 5 stars, I’m so keen to follow the journey with Kate Bonham - making the written word bend to her will.
As with any darker story make sure you check the trigger warnings, take care of you 🖤

[OneShelfIsNeverEnough · Rating 5 out of 5]

Books like Reaper are the exact reason MC series are so popular and why we need so many more!

Fmc Rowan is in a life or death situation all thanks to the ex that skipped town and left her in the sights of a criminal gang seeking payback. In an effort to literally stay alive, she seeks safety in the only place she knows they won't get to her. And that happens to be the MC club her ex's dad is the president of.

While Reaper welcomes Rowan, he's instantly in torment over his desire for his son's girl. He can't touch her, he shouldn't touch her, but when the truth comes out....all bets are off!

Rowan tries her hardest not to get caught staring a little to long at the club's pres and not everyone is thrilled by her presence. But when Reaper wants to lay claim to something, god help anyone who tries to touch or harm what's his!

Reaper is a fast paced, red hot thrill of a ride and I can't wait to see where this series is going to go!

[Dankinia · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'd recommend this if you are looking for a book about a biker that offers protection to his son's ex-girlfriend after she is threatened by a rival club over debts his son owes.

Overall, I rate it 3.5⭐out of 5 which means I had a good time reading this and would recommend it, but it fell a bit short of being something I'll read again unless it's part of a favorite series. However, I enjoyed it enough that I will read more books by this author in the future.

What worked for me:
• Reaper's desire to help his adult children even though they avoid him
• Rowan working to get past her self-esteem issues

What didn't work for me:
• The dreaded 3rd act breakup is the reason for 3.5 instead of 4 stars.

Thank you Midnight Dreary Publishing and Kate Bonham for an early copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Finished Reading
03/13/2026

[Maelle C · Rating 3 out of 5]

While I did enjoy this book, I finished it feeling a bit unsure about it. I liked the reading experience overall, but a few elements made me pause or didn’t quite work for me — and that’s okay.

What I liked: Reaper, without a doubt. Even if there were moments where I wanted to smack him, he was easily the most memorable character in the book for me.

Rowan, on the other hand… not really. One moment she’s a damsel in distress, the next she’s a badass fighting in a ring, and then shortly after she’s portrayed as fragile again. I can absolutely appreciate a character having both strengths and weaknesses, but here it felt like two complete opposites existing in the same person, and it didn’t fully make sense to me.

The relationship between Reaper and Rowan also didn’t move me as much as I expected. It’s intense, yes, but I didn’t really feel much emotional depth between them. Their connection felt more physical and driven by desire than by genuine feelings.

Finally, some of the plot twists didn’t feel fully explored, especially the parts involving Rowan and her family. Giving that aspect a bit more development could have added depth to Rowan’s character.

That said, I still enjoyed the book, even if it doesn’t quite match what I personally prefer in MC romances.

[Patricia Lord · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is my first book by Kate Bonham and based on this it will not be my last book. The way we were sucked in to this new series was with a bang.
Reaper is a dark, fast-paced MC romance with danger, chaos, suspense, possessive protection, morally grey bikers, chemistry, and a story that keeps you turning the pages, and on the edge of your seat.

[Monica Minniti · Rating 5 out of 5]

Meet Rowan and Wyatt aka Reaper. She’s hiding from her ex boyfriend and his debts. He’s the President of a motorcycle club and happens to be her ex boyfriend’s Dad. The interplay between these two is amazing as is the chemistry. I was hooked from the first line! The story moves well and keeps you entertained. Can’t wait for book 2!! Spice is 🌶️🌶️🌶️ and stars are 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟.

[Hannah Mann · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this as an ARC and this book had me hooked from the start. I don't normally enjoy unfinished series. But for an Aussie indie author I'll do it. Being a fan of sons of anarchy this gave me all the happy biker dopamine I needed.

The storyline and character developments are amazing and so well written. And when the spice is happening you will be left wanting more. And more and more.

I highly suggest this read and I cannot wait for more.

[Rebecca Doyle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Omg this book was so good I couldn’t put it down the characters and the storyline was chefs kiss. With each page it had me guessing and wanting more

[Holly Noel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reaper and Rowan are fantastic. Rowan came to Reapers club for help and ended up his queen.

[Googly55 · Rating 1 out of 5]

I really tried to give this one a chance, against my better judgement… After Rowan got beat to within an inch of her life (by her BROTHER’s goons) to send a message to her gay, addict boyfriend who happens to be the son of Reaper - but no, I soldiered on…and that was a mistake.

Reaper and Rowan end up together after he finds out she’s not romantically involved with his son and he offers her protection from Raf (her unbeknownst to her brother). Fun fact - RAF knows Rowan is his sister and had her beaten so badly she has to stay in the hospital for 10 DAYS!!!

If that’s not bad enough, we have Reaper, who by now is in love with Rowan, push her away so she’ll be “safe” by implying he’s going to fuck a clubwhore. He doesn’t, but he makes her and his entire club believe it. He knows she’s insecure and has been viciously bullied by two of the whores in high school and now at his club (also physically assaulted by them). So he takes one of the whores, whom Rowan is friendly with so it’s not as bad. 🙄

Rowan caves at his first attempt at “getting her back” (fucking her in an alley behind a club she’s at with friends) and transforms from insecure mess to fighting in an illegal boxing ring.

I think the evil whores try and harm her again and she and Reaper kill them, so it’s all good. I skimmed after the fight ring, so I’m approximating. Maybe when you’re the president of the club you can handle abusive bitches instead of letting them get to your woman. He should have banished them when he learned how awful they were to Rowan in HS, not to mention how they acted towards her right in front of him!!

[Marissa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Reaper is the first instalment in the Shackled Sons MC series, and overall it was an engaging start to the world.

What worked best for me was the emotional intensity. The romance arcs are layered and complicated, and the feelings between the characters feel genuine and charged. I found myself most invested when the story leaned into connection, loyalty, and the push and pull of vulnerability.

Rowan’s growth becomes more visible toward the end of the book. I appreciated seeing her step further into herself, though I would have loved to witness more of that evolution unfolding consistently throughout the story. There were moments where I could sense the direction of her arc, and I wanted just a little more depth and expansion along the way.

Wyatt, or Reaper, is positioned as a complex and formidable character. I enjoyed the emotional nuance in his portrayal, yet I found myself wanting to see more of the ruthless edge he is described as having. At times, the emphasis on spice seemed to overshadow the darker, more lethal aspects of his character. There were a few scenes that felt more driven by suspicion than genuine threat, which softened the tension for me.

Where this book really shines is in the relational dynamics. The found family elements are compelling, and the side characters add texture to the world. I am especially curious about Frankie and Chaos and would happily read more about them.

I received this book as an ARC, however, this review reflects my honest thoughts and feelings shared voluntarily.

[Debbie Caswell · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have read a few of Kate's books and have always loved them so when I saw a new series there was no question in my mind that I was going to read it Throw in the fact that it is set in my home town of Sydney and it was a slam dunk and I am so glad that I did. This series takes of with a bang and never slow down not in the suspense and drama and definitely not in the sexy times it is hot enough to melt your kindle.

Rowan is worked over when her ex boyfriend Trey can't pay his debts even though they have only been roommates for a number of years Is there more to why she is targeted you will have to read to see. Meanwhile she knows the only place she will be safe is with the Shackled Sons MC the club where Trey's father is the president. The only problem is she is deeply attracted to Reaper what she doesn't know is that the feeling is mutual These two can only resist for so long and when they finally admit their feelings things explode Through in family drama for Reaper and Trey's secret coming out and you get a story that has you glued until you turn the last page. Can't wait for more stories from the Shackled Sons Mc and love the link of the name pack to our convict history

[Donna M · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! I've missed out. This is my first Kate Bonham book, and I'll be going back for more!

The characterization is what makes or breaks a book for me. They need deapth and likability and Reaper hit it, even with the age gap (even thougth age gap story lines are not my favorite.

FMC -Rowan’s life turns upside down when her ex disappears and leaves her being hunted by the people he crossed, forcing her to seek protection from the motorcycle club run by his father. Reaper, the club president, agrees to keep her safe—but the growing attraction between them quickly complicates everything, especially since she was once involved with his son.

I've read tons of MC books and I was starting to think the books that get into MC life and the members and bring those characters to life were long gone, but nope! This is one of the good ones.

I read this book as an ARC and my honest opinion is this is a good read, it has well developed characters, a solid story line, enough push/pull and angst to keep it flowing and keep you hooked.

I recommend if you like MC books give this one a shot. If you havent read one, this is a great place to start.

[Angiee.Fallenpages · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars 😎
Anyone who knows me
Knows I love Kate, MC romance and taboo…
And boy this book did not disappoint 🥵

Rowan and her (ex) boyfriend are on the outs, he has people searching for him and instead they find her….she doesn’t have many people in her corner so she does the only thing that makes sense….she goes to the clubhouse…where her exs dad is the president….and she definitely doesn’t see him as daddy😈

Reaper has always had a soft spot for Rowan, why wouldn’t he - that’s his son’s gf…as far as he knows….and he definitely doesn’t wish she was his…noo not at all!

But nothing is ever easy
And there are secrets no one saw coming
But one things for certain…show no mercy

This book was absolutely delicious!
I loved the way we were introduced to a whole new club, with new members and new chaos!
Kate’s way of pulling you in, gripping you and blowing your mind is unparalleled and I absolutely cannot wait to see the direction she takes these boys!
So sit down and shut up - cause church is in session 🥵

[caitys.booknook · Rating 4 out of 5]

2026:

"You hurt her, and I don’t care if you’re my dad, the prez of your MC or the goddamn King of England. I will kill you."

This book is a great start to a whole new MC series. The Shackled Sons is going to be a whole new vibe and I am absolutely here for it!
Reaper and Ro - an unlikely pairing to start but a match made in Heaven...or Hell...
I loved watching the relationships unfold throughout the duration of this story, between both the MMC/FMC and other members within the MC club.
This feels like a book of self-discovery, Ro finding where she finally fits in the world as well as who she is as a person. She finally has the chance to be her true self, unapologetically. The way in which Reaper supports Ro in finding herself is beautiful and I loved that he finally found himself a woman who can keep up with him and be the Queen that he deserves.

"Those two had created a monster, and it was time to pay the toll."

[Jodi S · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was my first Kate Bonham read and boy was I impressed.
From the very beginning, my attention was captured and I devoured it in 24 hours. Just couldn't put it down.
The physical & sexual attraction between Rowan and he ex boyfriend's father Wyatt (Reaper - President of the Shacked Sons MC) was evident very early on. They both resist temptation, until they can't any longer. Everyone can see it but the age gap is what holds Reaper back for as long as he does. Doesn't stop him from fantasising about her for years though.
Her life is in danger as a rival gang tries to take her. Reaper will not let anyone take her while she's under his protection.
She's feisty though and doesn't go down without a fight. Once timid and shy, no longer!
Rowan becomes a true MC President's queen. Full of surprises along the way! A great read.
I also loved that it was based in Australia!

[Patricia Howard · Rating 5 out of 5]

I wasn't sure what to expect in this book from Miss Kate. But I am very happy to say that I loved Reaper and his Rowan. I loved the found family drama and the way that the brothers were with each other.
Always worried about what his son would do next or what kind of trouble he would get into, Reaper found that he couldn't keep his mind off of the girl that his son had brought to the club. Now he had to figure out what it was to be in love with someone and keep the relationship healthy. Rowan, had thought of this man before but never imagined what things would be like with him.
As trouble brews for the Sons, Rowan and Reaper must hold things together for the family. While Reaper tries to be a father to his kids.
I loved the way that the plot fit the characters. How each of them would rally each other or give each other shite.

[Kayla Cronin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Girllllllll
I’m OBSESSED
I am fully in my MC romance era right now and honestly… I don’t see myself leaving anytime soon.
This book? Absolutely devoured it. Like aside from doing the regular mum stuff I read this in one sitting.

I loved it so much. It hit that perfect sweet spot, gritty, dangerous, a little chaotic, but balanced with just the right amount of tension and spice to keep things addictive without feeling overdone. The atmosphere, the stakes, the characters… everything just worked.

There’s something about that mix of loyalty, danger, and forbidden attraction that just pulls you in and refuses to let go, and this book delivered all of that and more. I was hooked from start to finish and honestly? I’m already chasing that same high again.

I cannot wait to continue this series!

5⭐️ 4🌶️

[Michele · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book 1 in the Shackled Sons MC series and it was a great start. Rowan and Trey, Reaper's son, are living together. Their relationship used to be romantic; however, after a revelation they decided they were best suited as friends. Trey gets into trouble and skips town and unfortunately a text he sends to Rowan does not get delivered and she is left to suffer the consequences of his disappearance. She seeks protection from Reaper and the MC. From the beginning, they both feel the chemistry and don't act on it due to their respect for Trey. The story is engaging, emotional, and satisfying. Love how T&T get their just rewards - IYKYK 😈

This story contains:
🥰Age-gap romance
💣Danger
😈Troublesome CWs
😊Family reconciliation
😈Comeuppance for T&T☠️Bwahahaha

[Alice · Rating 4 out of 5]

What an excellent start to this series!

This story is engaging, with well-fleshed-out characters you immediately want to know more about.

Rowan is a strong woman who knows when to ask for help, and she turns to the MC when she needs it most. Wyatt “Reaper,” the president of the Shackled Sons MC, is there for Rowan in her time of need.

This was an excellent book, it’s well written, engaging, and perfectly paced. The chemistry between them was fire, and I flew through it so quickly. The “will they, won’t they” tension between the main characters was fun and compelling to read. I didn’t want it to end but also can’t wait for the next book!

[Ann L · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rowan hasn’t been with her ex, Trey, for a couple of years, they’re just good friends and housemates now, but when the men he owes come after her, she’s the one in danger. With nowhere else to go, she turns to the Shackled Sons MC clubhouse and the one man no one dares cross, Wyatt ‘Reaper’ Jameson, Trey’s father.

There’s always been a spark between Rowan and Reaper, and once she’s under his protection, the tension is instant.

I loved the protective, age-gap dynamic and gritty MC feel, though I felt the story relied a bit too heavily on frequent sexual encounters. A little more restraint would have made the chemistry even stronger.

[Surrender2silk · Rating 5 out of 5]

rowan ex boyfriend addictions has him in the middle of something bad. when the enemy can’t find him they pick her to show that they are serious when it comes to their money. she runs to her ex boyfriend dad. reaper is the president of the club and a man nobody messes with. he has a thing for her but he can’t she’s his kid girl. when she finally tell him they are no longer together. all bets are off. now it’s him protecting his girl . nothing to i’ll stop him from doing just that . when his kid confesses something to him. he know he can’t walk away from him . he will stand next to him and protect him best he can. together him and rowan make it happened.

[Wendy Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fantastic read, I’m loving the vibe I get from the Shackled Sons MC and am looking forward to reading the series, Maverick’s book should be very interesting. I absolutely loved reading about Reaper and Rowan’s relationship ❤️❤️❤️ They are a match made in biker heaven. Rowan certainly was a surprising addition, strong and capable, a great character I also love reading an Australian based MC story and being able to connect with all the places mentioned throughout. A definite page turner and very entertaining. 100% recommend this book to everyone ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ you will not be disappointed 😎🖤

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

OMG 😜😜😜😜

So this is a new author to and I can tell you now that I am HOOKED and will be reading more of her work!!!!!!!!

Reaper, president of the Shackled Sons MC, has always ‘liked’ his son’s girlfriend 😜

Rowan, needs to seek sanctuary and the only person she knows that can help is Reaper, her friends dad 😉

Once the reason for the sanctuary becomes clear, we will see a whole ‘new’ version of these two and let me tell you that it gets 🥵🥵🥵🥵🥵🥵🥵🥵

This is a FANTASTIC read, along with the 😮‍💨🤤 buts it also has what I love too…………..⛓️🏍️ and comeuppance will be served 💪

[GKP2460 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reaper is book 1 of the Shackled Sons MC, Sydney Chapter and it's a fantastic start to this series. This is a forbidden love story of sorts in that Reaper is Rowan's ex's dad and he's also the President of the Shackled Sons. Getting caught up in her ex's mess, it leaves her no choice but to go to Reaper. There's an excitement about a new series. Meeting new characters, being a part of their development and storylines and this one brings all of that in spades! From start to finish I was easily pulled in and kept glued to the pages. Can't wait for book 2!

[Bec · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rowan needs protection and that protection comes from Reaper aka Wyatt, her ex's dad and MC prez.

While it was an entertaining read, sometimes i questioned WTF was going on with Rowan half the time. There was danger but it seemed to wrap up rather easy, she was equally a badass and a damsel in distress.
Reaper had been pining for a while and his actions were questionable but as an MC Prez its somewhat expected.

Having an MC romance based in Sydney Australia was a change to the standard MC romances i have read and i quite liked it.
I am interested in how the series progresses.

[Jodie Mihas · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love it

Rowen’s ex boyfriend has debts and when he can’t be found to repay them they come for Rowen instead,she goes to the Shackled Sons MC clubhouse for protection and asks Reaper if she can stay there. There’s chemistry between Rowan and Reaper but Reaper is also her ex boyfriend’s dad so doesn’t want to cross that line. They resist each other until they absolutely can’t anymore and then there’s lots of spicy times. This book pulls you in from the beginning, the sexual tension is off the charts, the characters are all fantastic, the story is well written,I highly recommend this book to everyone ❤️🖤