Chasing Red: A Stalker. A Therapist. A Morally Gray Romance.

by Maggie Cole

From International bestselling author Maggie Cole comes the next descent into a morally gray psychological romance, where love is a liability, distance is survival, and obsession refuses to be left behind.

I fell in love with Blue Ivanov long before I admitted it.

That’s the part no one was supposed to know.
Not her family or the men who would destroy me if they ever realized how deeply she owns me.

Walking away was the only way to keep her safe.

So I built distance and told myself I could be starved into silence.

I was wrong.

Blue doesn’t chase blindly. She calculates.

I say danger.
She hears devotion.

I say stay away.
She tracks my weakness and hunts me anyway.

Her father would call me a liability, a mistake that needs to be handled.

But Blue doesn’t want protection.

She wants a love that burns, consumes, and leaves you delirious for more.

No matter how far I run, Blue isn’t chasing me to win.

She’s chasing me to make sure I finally stop pretending I don’t want to be caught.

Chasing Red is book two of the Beautiful Delusions Duet. Best if read after Resisting Blue. See Author's Note inside the book for trigger warnings.

Genres: Dark Romance, Dark

492 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 8, 2026

About the author

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Maggie Cole is committed to bringing her readers alphalicious book boyfriends and fiercely strong heroines.

She’s been called the literary master of steamy romance. Her books are full of raw emotion, suspense, and will always keep you wanting more. She is a masterful storyteller of contemporary romance and loves writing about broken people who rise above the ashes. Her books can often be found hanging out in the top 100, even years after publication.

Maggie lives in Florida with her son. She loves tennis, yoga, paddleboarding, boating, other water activities, and everything naughty.

Her current series were written in the order below:
All In (Stand alones with entwined characters)
It's Complicated (Stand alones with entwined characters)
Together We Stand (Brooks Family Saga - read in order)
Behind Closed Doors (Read in order)
Mafia Wars
Mafia Wars New York
Club Indulgence Duet
Mafia Wars Ireland
Wilted Kingdom Duet
The Underworld
The Cartwright Family (Holiday Romance)

Reviews

[Emmy Wong · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved the first book but this proved to be even better, and was the most beautiful and perfect conclusion to Blue and Reds story. Before you start reading this, please note that there are themes of SH and mental illness, please read at your own discretion. The plot was very dark, intense and emotional. I loved the plot twists, nothing majorly crazy, but still had me hooked from beginning to end. And also had me crying within an inch of my life. Although I am not a stalker, there are many parts of Reds story that I can relate to, and it made me emotional when I read this. Specifically the part about expectations and no one actually loving her for who she is, until Red. It’s a very significant part of this book, and also is a huge part of her character development as through Red, she comes to see herself in a new and brighter light. Red also goes through a major transformation throughout this book, as he realises that staying professional is not worth giving up Blue for. We can see a major change in him, as he decides not to run away, and to stick it out with her until the end. Their relationship, although starting out rocky, turned to be one of the most beautiful dark romance couples I’ve read. I love Maggie Cole and I can’t wait to see what comes next (hoping for Demi’s book). And it’s the prime rule of book reading that if you cry through half of it, it’s got to be a 5/5

[Sierra · Rating 4 out of 5]

❤️Arc Review❤️
Chasing Red
Beautiful Delusions Duet Book 2
Available Now
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️

💙Forbidden Therapist Romance
❤️Psychological Slow Burn
💙Touch-Starved Heroine
❤️Dark Obsession Romance
💙Age Gap
❤️She Falls First • He Falls Harder
💙Straight-Laced MMC → Morally Gray
❤️Unhinged Stalker FMC (Sympathetic)
💙Light Mafia (Blue is Adrian and Skylar Ivanov's daughter from Vicious Protector. no prior reading needed)

After the cliffhanger of book one in the duet, I was on the edge of my seat to see how the conclusion was going to measure up, and holy moly it was good!

The tension of will they be together fully and be accepted by her mafia family, Blue and Red's journey is not a straight forward path. It’s so spicy hot and I loved watching Blue come into her own and learning how to manage her need for pain.

Their relationship is messy, complicated and emotional and I was hooked on every page of their story. Im so sad it’s over but I have a feeling we’ll come back to this world I mean come on Demi deserves her own story!
Thank you Maggie Cole for the arc! ❤️

[Kristen Shipley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow—what a gripping, emotional conclusion to the Beautiful Delusions Duet! Maggie Cole pulls you in from the very first page, and Chasing Red doesn’t let go. Picking up where Resisting Blue left off, it’s an intense, fast-paced ride that builds to a finale that feels both chaotic and completely satisfying.

Chasing Red dives into the consequences of making choices you think are right for others—especially when those choices are fueled by fear. What makes this story stand out is the character growth. Red & Blue evolve in meaningful ways, moving from control, fear, and self-preservation to vulnerability, trust, and finally choosing to fight for what they truly want.

Chasing Red is a wild, unforgettable finish to the duet!

[Ashley · Rating 4 out of 5]

​If you are looking for a "light and fluffy" billionaire romance, keep walking. Red Mercer and Blue are here to wreck your emotions and then slowly piece them back together.
​The Story:
This duet is the definition of high-stakes. Red Mercer is the ultimate "touch her and you disappear" hero. He is powerful, intense, and absolutely feral when it comes to Blue. Watching him step into her life when she’s at her absolute lowest and essentially become her shield is everything I want in a dark romance.

[VAL · Rating 5 out of 5]

Blue Ivanov and Dr. Red Mercer

This picks up right where the first book ended, Blue is distraught, Red is trying to do what is expected of him, but he is also in pain.

They obviously find their way back thanks to a little helping hand from Demi, but there's still a lot that needs to be resolved and discussed, even though they just can't stay away from each other.

Blue goes through a lot of struggles, she doesn't trust anyone else but Red, he is the only one who really understands her and can help her, she is very codependent on him, but it's a dynamic that works for her. She is also very manipulative, spoiled, and unhinged. I loved her character, she is willing to do anything to be with Red, even plays dirty to get him right where she needs him.

Red really keeps trying to do what he think is the right professional choice, but he has dark desires too, and Blue is everything he wanted but didn't think he was allowed to have. He really unravels in this book, he becomes so far gone for Blue, he just doesn't care about anything anymore, and he knows that he is really the perfect match for Blue, and the only one who can give her exactly what she needs.

I loved that even though there's a lot of spice, and it is so good, the book doesn't make that be what helps Blue, but they also continue with the therapy sessions, and Red helps Blue finds other ways to cope with her struggles, the physical part plays a big role but he also helps her as a doctor too.

Her parents reaction was to be expected, but the way Red didn't back down and was willing to even die for Blue, really showed that he was just as obsessed with her, she completely took over his sanity, and I loved seeing that. They were definitely the perfect match for each other.

Demi was a great side character, she is amazing in this book, and I want more of her. What is going on with her and Mikhail? Nikolai? Are we getting an MFM with her book? I really can't wait!

[Alexandra Xenophontos · Rating 5 out of 5]

Completely addictive from start to finish. I was hooked the entire way through and never once found myself bored or distracted.

This duet really shines because of the dynamic between Blue and Red. Their relationship is emotionally intense, psychologically fascinating, romantic and completely consuming. I personally didn’t even view their relationship as toxic, just obsessive, emotionally raw and impossible not to become invested in. Even when they were messy, I still found myself rooting for them completely.

Red’s POV made this book even stronger for me, and the emotional intimacy between them felt deeper this time around. The therapy and attachment trauma elements are still present, though this book leans more heavily into the romance side and the chemistry between them is electric. The sexual tension and spice were 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ 4/5 scorching.

The audiobook elevated the experience massively again. Lauren Landa completely embodies Blue and brings so much emotion and personality to her character. While I connected more strongly with her performance overall, Tor Thom’s very deep, commanding voice worked perfectly for Red’s character and suited the intensity of his role really well.

The ending was satisfying, emotional and wrapped things up beautifully, but when I reached the epilogue I genuinely couldn’t believe the story was over. I was desperate for more.

An intense, emotionally charged psychological romance that completely lived up to the first book for me, gutted that we may have to wait a while for Demi's story!

[World Of Books 65 · Rating 5 out of 5]

A dark, obsessive finale that proves some loves are too powerful—and too dangerous—to ever let go.

Chasing Red, the final book in the Beautiful Delusions Duet by Maggie Cole, delivers a conclusion that is every bit as intense, addictive, and boundary-pushing as the story deserves.

If Resisting Blue introduced us to chaos, obsession, and fractured minds, Chasing Red fully embraces it. Think of the colours—blue and red colliding to create purple, a symbol of dangerous, all-consuming love. That’s exactly what this duet represents: fiery passion tangled with cold, morally grey depth, forming a connection that is as destructive as it is irresistible.

After the brutal cliffhanger that tore Blue Ivanov and Dr. Red Mercier apart, leaving Blue shattered, this final instalment pulls you straight back into their storm. The emotional intensity doesn’t ease—it sharpens. Darker, deeper, and even more consuming, this story refuses to play it safe.

What makes this relationship so gripping is its complexity. Walking away from each other isn’t just difficult—it’s impossible. Red’s ability to understand Blue on such a profound level is both captivating and unsettling. He knows what she needs, even when it crosses every ethical line. Loving her is dangerous. Being with him is destructive. But together? They are inevitable.

This is not a conventional romance, and it never tries to be. Instead, Maggie Cole leans fully into the darkness, crafting a story that is raw, provocative, and completely mesmerising. The tension never lets up, the chemistry burns through every page, and the storyline remains gripping right until the very end.

And that ending? Perfectly aligned with who these characters are—dark, intense, and unapologetically theirs.

If you like:
   •   Dark, boundary-pushing romance
   •   Morally grey, complex characters
   •   Obsessive, all-consuming love
   •   Psychological and emotional intensity
   •   Addictive, high-stakes duets

This duet doesn’t just push limits—it obliterates them. And Chasing Red is the unforgettable, perfectly twisted conclusion that brings it all together.

[Ginny · Rating 5 out of 5]

This second installment of Blue and Red’s story hits hard—emotionally intense, messy, and deeply satisfying without ever feeling easy.
At its core, this book is about being seen. Blue’s journey is especially powerful; after everything she’s endured, watching her finally understand what she needs to feel safe, valued, and fully loved is incredibly moving. The tension between her desires and her family’s warnings adds a constant undercurrent of conflict that keeps you invested the entire time.

Red, on the other hand, is a standout in a way that quietly challenges expectations. He doesn’t fit the mold people assume he should—and that’s exactly what makes him compelling. His strength isn’t just in power, but in consistency, loyalty, and the way he shows up for Blue again and again. His protectiveness never feels hollow; it feels intentional, grounded, and deeply personal.
What really elevates this book is how it explores the fine line between obsession and understanding. It doesn’t shy away from the darker, more complicated aspects of love, but instead leans into them, showing how connection can evolve into something healthier when both people are willing to fight for it.

Overall, this is a raw, emotionally charged continuation that doesn’t hold back. It pulls you into the intensity of love, the pain of being misunderstood, and the relief of finally finding where you belong.

[Kristen Thomas · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book had me completely on edge—I was hooked from the start!!! All I wanted was to jump into the pages and wrap Blue in the biggest hug!! Watching her battle her mental health was heartbreaking, but seeing the support she had from Red and Demi made such a difference and added so much depth to the story. Demi deserves her own moment because wow—her chaotic energy brings so much to the story. I absolutely adored her and cannot wait to see more of her journey. And Red… whew!!! I was this close to losing my mind waiting for him to get it together and admit how he really felt. But when he finally did? He didn’t hold back. Once he gave in, he was all in—completely devoted to Blue, and willing to fight for her no matter what. Beautiful Delusions Duet couldn’t be more fitting. Maggie Cole did such an incredible job capturing the raw, real essence of both Blue and Red. Their connection, their struggles, their growth—it all felt so genuine. And Blue… if you didn’t already fall for her in the first book, you definitely will here. She’s strong, determined, and refuses to back down from what she wants.

“Red for her fire. Blue for her calm. Chaos and steadiness, woven together exactly the way we live.”
The ending was AMAZING!!! 5 STARS ALL THE WAYYY!!!!!

[Rena Spensley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book 2: Blue Ivanov and Dr. Red Mercer’s story continues and OMG it does not disappoint.

Once again there are triggers you need to be aware of, so this might not be the book for you. But mental health, self harm, manipulation, stalking are the prominent ones.

Blue Ivanov can be considered to be beautifully broken. She’s strong willed, talented, intelligent and she knows what she wants. She is also afraid of not being worthy of love, fears of being abdandoned, letting her loved ones down and being a disappointment to everyone she knows. Dr. Mercer (Red) becomes her strength in those times of need, he sees her for who she is. Her good days, her bad days and the ugly days. But he needs her just as much as she needs him. The problem is he’s her therapist and their relationship goes against ethical standards, but the connection they have with each other can’t stop them.

There is a touch of mafia in the story as well, as her family is has ties to the Russian mafia, if you’ve read the OG Mafia Wars then you’ll understand. But you don’t need to read it, to get the jist of the Ivanov family.

I’m sure you’ll love this duet as much as I did. Kudos Maggie on bringing us back to the Mafia Wars universe, I can nevet get enougn.

[Sara Zimmer · Rating 5 out of 5]

So the cliffhanger from Book 1 of the duet really leaves you hanging, and Book 2 does NOT disappoint. You are on the edge of your seat for basically the entire book! Blue is such an emotionally complicated heroine. I connected to her and felt her struggle with her mental health in ALL the ways. Her growth was so empowering, and watching her fight for her man was fun. Plus, she is pretty dang funny!

Red... dear sweet Red. I love this guy. Some people will say boundaries are important and that it is taboo, but he gave it the whole college try to stay away from her. But honestly, seeing him fall in love with the imperfect version of her melted my heart. And him fighting for her in every way was so swoonworthy. He was everything Blue needed and more!

My heart was in my throat for the last 1/3 of this book. I was sobbing at parts (Skylar and Blue!!!). The HEA is so worth all of the angst and pain and stress!!!

Now... the spice is spicy in Book 2, so be open-minded, but I was here for it. I LOVED seeing Blue evolve and figure out what worked for her!

I have loved so many of the characters in this series, but these two will always hold a special place in my heart! Maggie knocked this series out of the park. 10 out of 10!!!

[Katie Murphy · Rating 4 out of 5]

And there we have it the conclusion to Blue and Reds duet and oh my what a rollercoaster it’s was🤭

In the first book there was quite a build up as we took some time to discover our characters, as the book developed things escalated and that is where we reached the cliffhanger and no I will not disclose what that is as I don’t want to ruin book ones reading experience.

If you’ve read book 1 you will understand that this duet involves the patient/therapist, taboo elements. But I feel book 2 is definitely on a much more raw and emotional side of things. While Blue is quite vulnerable in book 1 with Red, this only expands more in book 2 and also extends to Blue finally keeping what she bottled so long from her family.

Blue and Red’s journey is not a straight forward path. Their relationship is messy, complicated and emotional and I was hooked on every page of their story.

While Blue and Red’s story may have reached their conclusion I don’t believe we are done yet in this world and I definitely want to revisit soon. Thank you so much to the author who provided this e-arc for my honest thoughts 💭

[Whitney Cruthird · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC review from Author!

Can I start with saying this book had me on the edge of my seat. I wanted to step into it and give Blue the biggest hug ever! Seeing her struggle with her mental health made my heart break, but having Red and Demi there to help was incredible.

I am so so so glad that Red finally got his foot out of his a** and manned up and confessed how he truly felt, because I was about ready to scream. But once he fell, he fell hard and there was no taking it back that Blue was his and nothing was going to stop him no matter what the cost.

Demi bless her and her chaotic mind because I can't want for her story but god love her for how she handles everything in this entire book.

Maggie Cole naming this the Beautiful Delusions Duet is the perfect way to describe both books, but the way she captured Blue and Red's true selves in the this book, I was swooning. Be prepared to fall in love with Blue all over again (if you didn't in book 1) she is an incredible young woman who knows what she wants, how she is going to get it and will stop at nothing to get it.

The ending is the Blue and Red way, you will see when you read it.

"Red for her fire." "Blue for her calm." "Chaos and steadiness, woven together exactly the way we live. "

Thank you Maggie Cole for the allowing me to review this.

[Barbara Moreda · Rating 5 out of 5]

I would give this 10 stars if it were available! Maggie hit this one out of the park. (Well, the whole duet, honestly). Red has a filthy mouth. He knows exactly what Blue needs and is there for her every step of the way.

This book deals with hard subjects: obsession and self harm. They are prevalent and in the forefront of the story. If SH is a trigger, find another series to protect yourself.

Red thinks he can let her go after a fixer for the ivanov family gives him his life back. He can’t. She finds ways to draw him. Demi is crucial to the story and is there for her cousin and helps her through some tough times.

If you have read the Mafia Wars story, you can see the confrontation between her father and Red coming a mile away and you KNOW where Red ends up. By then, he realized he would burn down the world and implode his life for her.

It was great to see Maxsim and Aspen again. I really do love him. His was my first book of Maggie’s and will always hold a special, rent free space in my head.

No previous knowledge of the Mafia Wars series is needed for this duet but I would recommend diving in.

The narrators did an awesome job!

[Michele · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very impactful and satisfying ending to Red and Blue's story. And I loved it - here is why:

🫨Blue went from being totally obsessed with Red to understanding that what she was feeling was actually real. She was able to tamper her feelings of inadequacy and redirect them into more positive feelings and actions. I loved the scene where she stood up to her parents. 💕

❤️‍🔥Red held up the light for Blue so that she could see her way forward to happiness and self-love. He accepted her unconditionally, flaws and all, with a love that was strong. I loved the scene where he stood up to Blue's father - he was unwavering in his conviction to be with Blue regardless of what her father said or did to him. 💍

😍This book brought out such intense feelings in me -- I felt Blue's struggle and Red's determination to get their HEA. I cried and had to set my book down because for some reason the words kept getting blurry. 😪

Looking for to Demi's story - she was such a true friend to Blue. She made the hard decisions when she had to but always with Blue's best interests at heart.

[Renee · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a copy of this book from the publisher/author to review for Stephanie's Book Reports.

This is the second book in the Beautiful Delusions Duet. You have to read Resisting Blue first. This book will pick up right where that one left off. Blue and Dr. Red Mercier are in a bit of a big, huge mess that has left Blue heartbroken. If you thought the first book was obsession, chaos and a dose of crazy, this book fully embraces all those things. This is a seriously complex relationship. These two can't just get up and leave each other. Red is about the only one in the world I feel like who can understand Blue. And when I saw understand I mean that in a soul deep way. You will have to read to see what I mean. I don't know if I am saying it right. She is a dangerous woman to love and even when he knows what she needs it crosses so many lines in his ethics. But they just can't help but love each other. This is a book that you are going to love reading. I thought it was the perfect ending to their duet.

[Alimay · Rating 5 out of 5]

OBSESSIVE AND DRAMATIC

"Love isn't something I give lightly. So the word sits heavy in my mind now that the heat of the moment is gone. It's leverage and exposure. It's the one thing that can be used against you if you let it." - Red.

Maggie Cole has delivered a beautiful conclusion to Red and Blue's dynamic story. There are so many parts of this book that gripped me and had me turning the next page. There are poignant moments and the above quote from Red really spoke to me. These characters are mind blowingly deep, emotional and the chemistry burns white hot! I loved the vulnerability of Blue and how she grew emotionally and Red was the perfect MMC, loyal, loving and matched Blue with his need to protect. Resisting Blue (Book 1) and Chasing Red are a perfect duet if you love power plays, a female stalker, strong character development, secret morally grey romance and the threat of the mafia family. This duet has it all, characters to love, fantastic writing that engages you in every part and a storyline that keeps you up late at night!

[Amity · Rating 5 out of 5]

Intense

Blue and Red. Whew. Their story is intense. Ethically questionable. A little toxic. Downright steamy. It’s messy, but in the best way.

The portrayal of mental illness in this book is done insanely well. There’s no glossing over anything. It’s just completely raw and real and serious. We get all of Blue’s thoughts when she’s spiraling, no matter how ugly or chaotic they are. Definitely read the trigger warnings before you read.

Blue is mentally unstable and Red is her therapist. And though he fought like hell, they end up falling in love. Red is exactly what Blue needs. He doesn’t judge her in the slightest, he loves her for who she is, darkness and all. He helps ground her. Blue also brings out a side of Red that he didn’t know existed. She brings the chaos to his tightly controlled world and he needed that. They’re perfect together.

The spice in the second book is exquisite. Some of the best sex scenes I’ve read in a while. I loved Dom Red🥵

Demi is the best and I CANNOT wait for her story. I already know it’s going to be sooo good!

[Mrs Reads Between The Lines · Rating 5 out of 5]

If Resisting Blue was the first warning siren, Chasing Red is the full-blown, category-five hurricane—and I lived for every second of the devastation. An obsessive, addictive, and boundary-pushing dark romance, it dangerously swirls the cold, battered blue of the soul with the red of a rising storm, leaving us with a story as volatile as a bruised-violet horizon and just as breathtaking.

There is no calm. It’s visceral, unyielding, and emotionally devastating—a literal force of nature. The chemistry strikes with the power of lightning, shattering everything in its path and leaving permanent scars. For those who crave love stories that thrive in the eye of the storm, this duet doesn’t just push the line… it sweeps it out to sea. But in the aftermath, the sky finally breaks open, revealing a peace that only a storm this violent could leave in its wake.

*Please read trigger and content warnings.*

I am voluntarily leaving this honest review after receiving an advanced copy.

[Bailey Ackerman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Perfect Ending!

The cliffhanger on book 1 had me a little scared but Demi came in and saved the day! I loved how Demi’s relationships ended up helping Blue and Red. Blue starts just as unhinged and is not willing to walk away from Red even thought he’s been told not to see her. She will do whatever it takes to make it work! This had a lot more spice and I was here for it! I loved all the sneaking around while they were trying to figure out how to tell her parents. I really loved how he continued to work with her on her mental health. I was not expecting Adrian (Blue’s dad) to do what he did! It had my heart racing! I absolutely loved Blue’s growth and the ending had me tearing up! Maggie’s writing is fantastic and I couldn’t put this down! The spice was jaw dropping! The bag of toys IYKYK! Her calling him Dr. Mercer WHEW! If you like some age gap, light mafia, dr/patient with a little dom…this is the duet for you! Spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️/5

[Karen Wright · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was so excited for the continuation of Red and Blue’s story. I didn’t think anything or anyone could stop these two from being together! Not even her parents. This book brought danger and Blue and Red trying to hide what was obviously happening between them.

Therapist/Patient relationship, forbidden romance, age gap

Red is suppose to have a no contact order with Blue. Someone unexpected is appointed his attorney after he was arrested. Blue is definitely troubled, but it seems Red is the only one who grounds her. No matter how much Red tries to fight his attraction to Blue, it seems it gets harder as time goes on. After being arrested, Red hires a new assistant. Wait til you read her performance review in the bonus scene. One word-Wow! In the end, wait til you find out what happens! This was the perfect ending! Also, will Blue’s parents finally come around? After all, they were totally against their relationship from the beginning.

[Wendy Livingstone · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second part and the conclusion of Blue and Red’s duet, and this story carries straight on from the cliffhanger ending in Resisting Blue.
Blue is a force of nature, and therapist Red, thinks walking away will keep her safe and protected.
No spoilers: this is a must-read duet; you will not be disappointed!
This is a well written slow burn, dark, raw, gritty, and powerful, emotional roller coaster, with family, friendships, tension, challenges, boundaries, unhinged stalker, obsession, complex characters, humour, witty banter, morally gray, danger, intrigue, intense chemistry, and love, which leads to an entertaining, tragic, twisted, addictive, breathtaking, and unpredictable, dark psychological romance.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.

[Nikki B. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Chasing Red is book 2 in this duet and I feel like this one hit harder than the first book.
In the first book, we have Blue, whose new obsession is her therapist, Dr. Mercer. She manipulates her way into his life. But in this one, we learned that he understands her on a different level. He knows exactly what she needs. Even with everything going on and everything at risk, they both keep choosing each other, over and over again crossing all the lines. They both undergo so much character development. Blue, learning how to control some of her urges. But Red, giving in to what he really wants, healing Blue in all the ways she needs while also learning to keep a controlled composure for her sake. I love their dynamic. I also thought her best friend Demi was a fantastic side character.
The ending to this story was perfection. I highly recommend giving this duet a read!

[Kass · Rating 4 out of 5]

Chasing Red is book two in the Beautiful Delusions duet and is the conclusion of Red and Blue’s story from Resisting Blue. This is a morally gray, stalker, forbidden, age gap romance that contains sensitive topics, so please check the content warnings before reading this book.

This book left me emotional and was a story of love, fear, mental health and taboo relationships that will leave you reeling by the end. This book is full of raw emotions and a messy love that tests boundaries. Book one was a slow burn but this book brings the spice and will leave you in a puddle of desire. Red and Blue fought hard for their HEA and while their love is full of chaos and ups and downs, the ride was worth the ending.

I received an advanced copy of this book and am leaving an honest review as a show of my appreciation.

[GoodLittleLibraryMouse · Rating 5 out of 5]

Could not put this down! Seriously, I read this book in one sitting, I needed to know what happens after the cliffhanger in book 1.
Okay, so this was a FANTASTIC conclusion! Chasing Red has more action than book one, and the spice gets spicier!! Although book one felt like a slower burn, book 2 allows the chemistry between the characters to settle into a solid foundation and explore more intimate aspects together. I'm also so impressed with how well this story weaves within the Maggie Cole universe, but remains mafia-adjacent. Truly, this duet does so well at balancing angst and emotions (I mean, he is a therapist) with a love story and spicy scenes.

Thank you for gifting me an advanced reader copy. Review reflective of my personal opinions

[BookishBarbie (Annette) · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great ending to the chaos that is Red and Blue!! This book was filled with deep trauma, healing, and boundaries that Blue never knew she needed. Red is her person, and Blue is tired of hiding their love. She knows the only hurdle to overcome is her family, yet she isn't prepared for the consequences. Or better yet, the consequences her family will have to face if they don't accept Dr. Mercer. This read digs deeper into her mental health, and we see the love and strength these two share. And let's not forget about the delicious spice!! Good lawd, this man's dirty words can make a nun blush. 🥵 Their chemistry is unhinged in the best way, and Blue definitely get her HEA. This duet had me screaming and speechless!

[Kristin · Rating 4 out of 5]

WOW. Just…wow. As someone who loved Adrian Ivanov, the emotional whiplash in this one had me feeling everything including some serious rage moments 👀

But Blue and Red? Their love was intense, messy, and so beautifully devoted it honestly hurt in the best way. This duet wrapped up perfectly, balancing heartbreak and healing in a way that felt so real. The mental health rep was heavy, raw, and incredibly powerful, the kind that sticks with you long after you finish the last page.

I closed this book feeling full of love and also lowkey questioning how I can show up better for the people in my life. That’s when you know a story hits different.

Highly recommend this duet, just be ready to feel everything.

Thank you Maggie Cole for the ARC!

[Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have to admit that Blue was not my favourite character in Resisting Blue, but in Chasing Red it was as though she was a completely different character. The dynamic between these two was so hot and never waivered throughout all the complications. I found this book much more focused and concise than the first but it still contained all the emotion and angst that this complicated relationship engenders. The strength Blue shows when she confronts her uncle and ultimately her father demonstrates just how far she has come working with Red even if their relationship is considered taboo by so many. An emotional rollercoaster of a story that will keep you engrossed, but with an ending that will lighten your soul.

[Jess the Bookaholic · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this conclusion to the Beautiful Delusions Duet. Blue and Dr Mercer are made for each other…even though others don’t see it since they started off in an untraditional way.

Blue Ivanov feels deeply and often gets trapped in her mind waning to escape the chaos of it….Dr Red Mercer is the only one who can calm the storm brewing inside her. Watching their journey unfold kept me emotionally invested the entire time.

Between the explosive dynamic that is Blue and Dr Mercer, the forbidden desires that bloom between them and the constant cloud of doubt over what their future means I struggled putting this down. The emotions were so real and intense, I found myself getting emotional. This a total 5 star read and a 5 spicy rating too.

[Linda Dunn · Rating 5 out of 5]

You are worth so much more than this...

I was chewed up and spit out emotionally and am physically exhausted after reading this story. Blue and Red were potent together, mentally and physically. Their passion was powerful and it escalates in this book.

I can't say what scene it was because of spoilers, but it sucked me dry of my tears that would not subside. I am so proud and overjoyed how Blue did a 360 turn in her life and I was impressed with how much she had grown. Red was responsible in helping her pivot her life. He went above and beyond for her and he was her rock. They loved each other hard and did not give up on each other. Their HEA was well deserved.