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Twisted Tulip: Reverse Age Gap Military Revenge Obsession
297 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 19, 2026
About the author
Gigi Meier
20 books154 followersGIGI MEIER retired from a thirty-year career in corporate America to write romance novels about strong female characters and their complicated, swoon-worthy men. She loves telling stories and figuring out why her characters do what they do. With heartbreaking angst, panty-dropping lust, and enviable love, her stories linger long after you close the book.
When GiGi is not eating over her laptop, she likes to spend time in the pool with her children, walk her furry babies, and film videos for Instagram. Whether working out with her trainer, attending a book club, or hosting a game night, she loves connecting with new people and making friends.
Learn more about GiGi:
www.GiGiMeier.com
www.instagram.com/authorgigimeier
https://www.facebook.com/groups/autho...
https://gigimeier.substack.com
When GiGi is not eating over her laptop, she likes to spend time in the pool with her children, walk her furry babies, and film videos for Instagram. Whether working out with her trainer, attending a book club, or hosting a game night, she loves connecting with new people and making friends.
Learn more about GiGi:
www.GiGiMeier.com
www.instagram.com/authorgigimeier
https://www.facebook.com/groups/autho...
https://gigimeier.substack.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
May 19, 2026
First of all, thank you so much for allowing me to ARC read this book in exchange for my honest review. I always appreciate the opportunity to read a story early and share my genuine thoughts.
This is the second book I’ve read by Gigi, and overall, I thought it was an alright read. There were definitely things I enjoyed, and once I got further into the story, I found myself much more invested in what was happening.
That being said, when I first started the book, I honestly felt a little lost. It almost felt like I had accidentally started in the middle of a series instead of at the beginning of a story. There were moments where it seemed like certain character histories, relationships, or background details were already established, and I found myself trying to piece together what I might have missed. It took me a little while to find my footing and fully settle into the world.
Once I got past that initial confusion, though, the story definitely improved for me. The characters became easier to connect with, the plot started making more sense, and I was able to enjoy the journey much more. There was enough there to keep me reading, and I did end up enjoying the book overall.
I think for me, the biggest hurdle was simply that opening feeling of being dropped into an already moving story without enough context. But once the pieces started falling into place, I was able to appreciate what the author was building.
Overall, this was a solid read—it just took me a little longer to fully get immersed than I expected.
This is the second book I’ve read by Gigi, and overall, I thought it was an alright read. There were definitely things I enjoyed, and once I got further into the story, I found myself much more invested in what was happening.
That being said, when I first started the book, I honestly felt a little lost. It almost felt like I had accidentally started in the middle of a series instead of at the beginning of a story. There were moments where it seemed like certain character histories, relationships, or background details were already established, and I found myself trying to piece together what I might have missed. It took me a little while to find my footing and fully settle into the world.
Once I got past that initial confusion, though, the story definitely improved for me. The characters became easier to connect with, the plot started making more sense, and I was able to enjoy the journey much more. There was enough there to keep me reading, and I did end up enjoying the book overall.
I think for me, the biggest hurdle was simply that opening feeling of being dropped into an already moving story without enough context. But once the pieces started falling into place, I was able to appreciate what the author was building.
Overall, this was a solid read—it just took me a little longer to fully get immersed than I expected.
May 19, 2026
Twisted Tulip was SUCH a good read. Military, CIA, FBI — everyone is tangled up in the death of the FMC’s son and the revenge journey of the MMC.
After her son dies on a mission, the FMC moves away to escape everything… but the MMC is hired to dispose of her and quickly finds himself unable to do it.
The twists and turns in this book are insane, and the tension never lets up. Add in the age gap and all the emotional damage, and it becomes completely addictive.
Yes, it’s dark. Yes, your heart will hurt. But it is SO worth it. Seriously, you need to read this.
After her son dies on a mission, the FMC moves away to escape everything… but the MMC is hired to dispose of her and quickly finds himself unable to do it.
The twists and turns in this book are insane, and the tension never lets up. Add in the age gap and all the emotional damage, and it becomes completely addictive.
Yes, it’s dark. Yes, your heart will hurt. But it is SO worth it. Seriously, you need to read this.
May 17, 2026
I’m very torn about this book because I did like it but a few things did end up bothering me a lot. I really did like the feeling and premise of the story. It was nice to see grief expressed in a more realistic way instead of a time heals all wounds kind of way. But there was so much internal monologuing that towards the end I even found myself starting to skip parts to continue on with what was actually happening. Overall tho I did like the story itself and would suggest it. Especially if you like moral grey characters and dark romance.
May 19, 2026
I had higher hopes for this one as I absolutely love the Bikers of Boston Series.
Unfortunately this one just didn't quite hit right for me.
River and Helene are brought together through grief and a revenge plot. The grief side is explored well, but I just didn't connect with them enough for it to hit me emotionally.
I would still tell others to read it and make up their own minds though what doesn't hit right for me could be something you love.
Unfortunately this one just didn't quite hit right for me.
River and Helene are brought together through grief and a revenge plot. The grief side is explored well, but I just didn't connect with them enough for it to hit me emotionally.
I would still tell others to read it and make up their own minds though what doesn't hit right for me could be something you love.
May 16, 2026
Thank you to Happily Booked PR for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
This was a major departure from my usual reads. This was dark and gritty and made me uncomfortable in not totally unwelcome ways. Definitely pay attention to the trigger warnings on this one. The plot is interesting and kept me hooked, but it deals with HEAVY themes and walks that line of morally gray obsession.
This was a major departure from my usual reads. This was dark and gritty and made me uncomfortable in not totally unwelcome ways. Definitely pay attention to the trigger warnings on this one. The plot is interesting and kept me hooked, but it deals with HEAVY themes and walks that line of morally gray obsession.
May 19, 2026
This is the seventh book in the Garden of Desire series. River and Helene’s story was good. It’s well written, emotional, twisted and interesting. An enjoyable story. I received an early copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review
Review of advance copy
Twisted Tulip absolutely crawled into my brain wearing combat boots and carrying emotional damage like it was a love language. Five stars. No notes. Just me sitting here staring at the wall wondering if Gigi Meier personally enjoys ruining people for sport because WHAT was this beautifully unhinged fever dream???
River Reyes is not your standard broody man. This man is held together by sniper training, grief, and the world's thinnest thread. He came to kill Helene and instead accidentally developed the kind of obsession that should probably be studied in a locked facility. The tension between these two felt like standing too close to a live wire during a thunderstorm. Every conversation had me clutching my metaphorical pearls while also screaming "kiss immediately or kill each other already." Sometimes both.
And HELENE??? Good lord. A woman opening her arms to death instead of running??? That scene lodged itself directly into my ribcage. She's exhausted, guilty, sharp as broken glass, and carrying enough buried secrets to sink a continent. I loved her instantly. Not in a "she's okay" way. In a "your honor, I'd defend her crimes in court" way.
The chemistry in this book is absolutely rancid in the best possible sense. It's not soft romance. It's grief chewing through barbed wire. It's desire with a sniper scope trained on it. It's two people circling each other like they're trying to decide whether to kiss or confess war crimes. The obsession arc?? DERANGED. DELICIOUS. I inhaled it like my life depended on it.
Also the atmosphere in this book deserves its own award because the tulip fields mixed with all this violence and guilt and storm-soaked yearning created the weirdest, prettiest emotional battlefield. Everything felt cinematic. Dark. Heavy. Romantic in that dangerous "this cannot possibly end well" kind of way that keeps you reading at 2am while your eyeballs dry out.
The whole story has this pulse under it. Grief. Revenge. Mercy. The terrifying intimacy of being truly seen by someone who knows exactly how ugly you are inside and stays anyway. I ate it UP.
This wasn't a romance gently placing a hand on my shoulder. This was a romance dragging me into the rain by the throat and whispering "feel something." And unfortunately for me... I did.
River Reyes is not your standard broody man. This man is held together by sniper training, grief, and the world's thinnest thread. He came to kill Helene and instead accidentally developed the kind of obsession that should probably be studied in a locked facility. The tension between these two felt like standing too close to a live wire during a thunderstorm. Every conversation had me clutching my metaphorical pearls while also screaming "kiss immediately or kill each other already." Sometimes both.
And HELENE??? Good lord. A woman opening her arms to death instead of running??? That scene lodged itself directly into my ribcage. She's exhausted, guilty, sharp as broken glass, and carrying enough buried secrets to sink a continent. I loved her instantly. Not in a "she's okay" way. In a "your honor, I'd defend her crimes in court" way.
The chemistry in this book is absolutely rancid in the best possible sense. It's not soft romance. It's grief chewing through barbed wire. It's desire with a sniper scope trained on it. It's two people circling each other like they're trying to decide whether to kiss or confess war crimes. The obsession arc?? DERANGED. DELICIOUS. I inhaled it like my life depended on it.
Also the atmosphere in this book deserves its own award because the tulip fields mixed with all this violence and guilt and storm-soaked yearning created the weirdest, prettiest emotional battlefield. Everything felt cinematic. Dark. Heavy. Romantic in that dangerous "this cannot possibly end well" kind of way that keeps you reading at 2am while your eyeballs dry out.
The whole story has this pulse under it. Grief. Revenge. Mercy. The terrifying intimacy of being truly seen by someone who knows exactly how ugly you are inside and stays anyway. I ate it UP.
This wasn't a romance gently placing a hand on my shoulder. This was a romance dragging me into the rain by the throat and whispering "feel something." And unfortunately for me... I did.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Twisted Tulip: Reverse Age Gap Military Revenge Obsession by Gigi Meier absolutely wrecked me in the best way possible. This book was dark, emotional, obsessive, and so deeply layered that I could not stop thinking about it even after I finished the final page.
River Reyes was such a powerful MMC. Broken, haunted, and carrying the weight of grief and revenge on his shoulders, he walks into this story ready to die right alongside the woman he blames for everything. The tension from the very beginning was unreal because you can feel how fragile his control really is beneath all the anger and pain. Watching his obsession slowly replace his hatred was addictive and honestly impossible to look away from.
And Helene? She completely fascinated me. She is not your typical FMC. She is older, intelligent, emotionally scarred, and carrying her own darkness that made every scene with her feel heavy and intense. The way she almost welcomed death instead of running from it gave this story such a haunting atmosphere that pulled me in immediately.
The chemistry between River and Helene was raw, toxic, emotional, and magnetic all at once. Every interaction felt dangerous. Every moment between them carried this tension that could either end in violence or desire and honestly sometimes both. Their connection felt messy and consuming in the most unforgettable way.
What really stood out to me was how emotional this story became underneath all the obsession and revenge. There was so much grief, guilt, trauma, and vulnerability woven into the plot that it gave the darker moments even more impact. The writing was beautiful and atmospheric and the pacing kept me completely locked in from start to finish.
If you love dark romance with morally gray characters, military themes, revenge, obsession, emotional damage, and intense chemistry that burns straight through the pages, this book needs to be on your TBR immediately.
Easy 5 stars for me. This one left a mark.
River Reyes was such a powerful MMC. Broken, haunted, and carrying the weight of grief and revenge on his shoulders, he walks into this story ready to die right alongside the woman he blames for everything. The tension from the very beginning was unreal because you can feel how fragile his control really is beneath all the anger and pain. Watching his obsession slowly replace his hatred was addictive and honestly impossible to look away from.
And Helene? She completely fascinated me. She is not your typical FMC. She is older, intelligent, emotionally scarred, and carrying her own darkness that made every scene with her feel heavy and intense. The way she almost welcomed death instead of running from it gave this story such a haunting atmosphere that pulled me in immediately.
The chemistry between River and Helene was raw, toxic, emotional, and magnetic all at once. Every interaction felt dangerous. Every moment between them carried this tension that could either end in violence or desire and honestly sometimes both. Their connection felt messy and consuming in the most unforgettable way.
What really stood out to me was how emotional this story became underneath all the obsession and revenge. There was so much grief, guilt, trauma, and vulnerability woven into the plot that it gave the darker moments even more impact. The writing was beautiful and atmospheric and the pacing kept me completely locked in from start to finish.
If you love dark romance with morally gray characters, military themes, revenge, obsession, emotional damage, and intense chemistry that burns straight through the pages, this book needs to be on your TBR immediately.
Easy 5 stars for me. This one left a mark.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Twisted Tulip by Gigi Meier ,is a tantalising triumph that has some oomph. There’s lots of high intensity heat on repeat not to mention a heck of a storyline beyond compete.
A Marine Scout Sniper with a grudge has two graves already dug and lonely mother who has nothing left to live for except maybe Roscoe her faithful companion , so doesn’t budge, nor try to get out of his gun’s sight. In fact she looks like she’s welcoming death this mum with a wrap sheet so despicable tonight.
Terminating Dr. Helene Ward.
CIA Counterintelligence Officer.
The architect of the Phantom Protocol. Classified as a breach. I call it a betrayal.
Of God.
Country.
And the Corps.
Why doesn’t he release his trigger finger?She’s in his scope ,just needs to linger ,live in hope to welcome her release from her pain.
She’s usually found trudging through tulip fields in the rain. He must be insane but he’s not letting her have it easy.
Whites of her eyes as he points and shoots. No substitutes,this is real. This sicko who doesn’t feel bereft over the demise of her son Alec as she sent him to his death.
Tensions mount and as other parties close in ,what begins as a paramount urgency goes through changes of emergency measures. Pleasures of sorts both being overwrought and solaces sought… Fraught with anxiety and trust issues ,this book ain’t for the faint hearted who grab for the tissues . No tiptoeing through these tulips and he’s hammering the point home. Not so much as wham bam Thank-you ma’am as hell is here today goddamn!
Gigi Meier knows what to write to set our pulse racing to ignite those sparks of desire into a flaming raging inferno of fire.Our breath hitched ,hearts pacing a staccato beat filled with emotion and heat edge of your seat tense and beautifully intense pitched .
A Marine Scout Sniper with a grudge has two graves already dug and lonely mother who has nothing left to live for except maybe Roscoe her faithful companion , so doesn’t budge, nor try to get out of his gun’s sight. In fact she looks like she’s welcoming death this mum with a wrap sheet so despicable tonight.
Terminating Dr. Helene Ward.
CIA Counterintelligence Officer.
The architect of the Phantom Protocol. Classified as a breach. I call it a betrayal.
Of God.
Country.
And the Corps.
Why doesn’t he release his trigger finger?She’s in his scope ,just needs to linger ,live in hope to welcome her release from her pain.
She’s usually found trudging through tulip fields in the rain. He must be insane but he’s not letting her have it easy.
Whites of her eyes as he points and shoots. No substitutes,this is real. This sicko who doesn’t feel bereft over the demise of her son Alec as she sent him to his death.
Tensions mount and as other parties close in ,what begins as a paramount urgency goes through changes of emergency measures. Pleasures of sorts both being overwrought and solaces sought… Fraught with anxiety and trust issues ,this book ain’t for the faint hearted who grab for the tissues . No tiptoeing through these tulips and he’s hammering the point home. Not so much as wham bam Thank-you ma’am as hell is here today goddamn!
Gigi Meier knows what to write to set our pulse racing to ignite those sparks of desire into a flaming raging inferno of fire.Our breath hitched ,hearts pacing a staccato beat filled with emotion and heat edge of your seat tense and beautifully intense pitched .
May 26, 2026
Twisted Tulip was my first book by Gigi Meier, and it ended up being a very different reading experience than I expected.
After the death of her son during a mission, the FMC leaves everything behind in an attempt to escape the grief and memories that continue to haunt her. Meanwhile, the MMC is on a revenge-driven path of his own and is hired to dispose of her. What follows is a story filled with secrets, hidden motives, and connections that slowly begin to unravel.
One of the things I enjoyed most was how interconnected everything felt. It seemed like everyone was somehow tied to the death of the FMC’s son, and uncovering those connections became one of the most intriguing parts of the story. As more information came to light, the layers of the mystery continued to build.
There were several twists and turns throughout the book that kept me engaged and made me want to keep reading to see how everything would come together. Just when I thought I understood where the story was headed, another revelation would shift things in a new direction.
This wasn’t necessarily the story I expected when I started it, but it was a unique and memorable read because of that. Readers who enjoy suspense, mystery, revenge plots, emotional themes, and uncovering secrets may find themselves pulled into this story as well.
⭐️ Overall Rating: 4/5
🔥 Burn Level: 3/5
🌶️ Spice Level: 2.5/5
💧 Emotional Impact: 4/5
Thank you to Happily Booked PR for the opportunity to read and review this book. All opinions are my own.
After the death of her son during a mission, the FMC leaves everything behind in an attempt to escape the grief and memories that continue to haunt her. Meanwhile, the MMC is on a revenge-driven path of his own and is hired to dispose of her. What follows is a story filled with secrets, hidden motives, and connections that slowly begin to unravel.
One of the things I enjoyed most was how interconnected everything felt. It seemed like everyone was somehow tied to the death of the FMC’s son, and uncovering those connections became one of the most intriguing parts of the story. As more information came to light, the layers of the mystery continued to build.
There were several twists and turns throughout the book that kept me engaged and made me want to keep reading to see how everything would come together. Just when I thought I understood where the story was headed, another revelation would shift things in a new direction.
This wasn’t necessarily the story I expected when I started it, but it was a unique and memorable read because of that. Readers who enjoy suspense, mystery, revenge plots, emotional themes, and uncovering secrets may find themselves pulled into this story as well.
⭐️ Overall Rating: 4/5
🔥 Burn Level: 3/5
🌶️ Spice Level: 2.5/5
💧 Emotional Impact: 4/5
Thank you to Happily Booked PR for the opportunity to read and review this book. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book completely consumed me. I picked it up and genuinely could not put it down. The writing style was absolutely captivating, emotional, sharp, immersive. Every scene felt intentional, every dialogue meaningful. The pacing was perfectly done; nothing felt unnecessary or dragged out. Everything in this story was crafted with so much care.
This is a dark, emotional story about revenge, obsession, grief, and healing wrapped in a military suspense romance.
Our MMC is driven by revenge after losing his military team during a compromised operation. He believes the FMC knowingly allowed it to happen. For three years he’s carried that anger, convinced she deserves to die. Meanwhile, she’s been drowning in grief after losing her son in the very same operation, surviving rather than truly living on her tulip farm.
When he finally comes for revenge… he can’t do it.
The tension between them was incredible. Both characters carry so much darkness, pain, and emotional damage, yet their connection develops in such a restrained, aching way. They know they shouldn’t fall for each other, but the pull between them becomes impossible to ignore.
The banter, the emotional depth, the grief woven into every interaction, it all felt raw and authentic. I loved how layered both characters were.
This story was intense, emotional, addictive, and beautifully written. One of those books that stays in your head long after you finish
This is a dark, emotional story about revenge, obsession, grief, and healing wrapped in a military suspense romance.
Our MMC is driven by revenge after losing his military team during a compromised operation. He believes the FMC knowingly allowed it to happen. For three years he’s carried that anger, convinced she deserves to die. Meanwhile, she’s been drowning in grief after losing her son in the very same operation, surviving rather than truly living on her tulip farm.
When he finally comes for revenge… he can’t do it.
The tension between them was incredible. Both characters carry so much darkness, pain, and emotional damage, yet their connection develops in such a restrained, aching way. They know they shouldn’t fall for each other, but the pull between them becomes impossible to ignore.
The banter, the emotional depth, the grief woven into every interaction, it all felt raw and authentic. I loved how layered both characters were.
This story was intense, emotional, addictive, and beautifully written. One of those books that stays in your head long after you finish
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Thank you for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Overall, this was a bit of a mixed experience for me. While the story personally didn’t connect with me as strongly as I had hoped, I can still appreciate the ideas behind it and the effort that clearly went into the writing.
There were moments I enjoyed, particularly some of the emotional interactions and the general premise of the story. The writing style was accessible and easy to follow, which made it a quick read overall. However, some aspects of the pacing and character development didn’t fully work for my personal reading taste, so I found it harder to stay invested throughout.
River... Meh, he has his own issues so does Helene. I couldn't bring myself to feel emotionally connected to either of the characters and like I mentioned before there were parts where I felt lost, especially at the beginning of the story. But as I read further, the puzzle pieces started shifting into the place.
I genuinely believe this book could work much better for readers who enjoy morally grey relationship dynamics, emotionally driven plots, and heavy storytelling. Reading is such a subjective experience, and just because something wasn’t entirely for me doesn’t mean it won’t be someone else’s favorite read.
I’m still grateful for the opportunity to read and review it.
Overall, this was a bit of a mixed experience for me. While the story personally didn’t connect with me as strongly as I had hoped, I can still appreciate the ideas behind it and the effort that clearly went into the writing.
There were moments I enjoyed, particularly some of the emotional interactions and the general premise of the story. The writing style was accessible and easy to follow, which made it a quick read overall. However, some aspects of the pacing and character development didn’t fully work for my personal reading taste, so I found it harder to stay invested throughout.
River... Meh, he has his own issues so does Helene. I couldn't bring myself to feel emotionally connected to either of the characters and like I mentioned before there were parts where I felt lost, especially at the beginning of the story. But as I read further, the puzzle pieces started shifting into the place.
I genuinely believe this book could work much better for readers who enjoy morally grey relationship dynamics, emotionally driven plots, and heavy storytelling. Reading is such a subjective experience, and just because something wasn’t entirely for me doesn’t mean it won’t be someone else’s favorite read.
I’m still grateful for the opportunity to read and review it.
May 23, 2026
Review of an advanced copy.
This story is gripping, dark and emotionally charged. Check the trigger warnings because this story does not shy away from trauma, violence, heartbreak, grief, and all the things that come with it. Your mental health matters.
To say this book did something to me is an understatement. After finishing it, I just started bawling. It is a raw, devastatingly, traumatic story that will stay with you for a while.
River is assigned to take Helenes life. But what he found is more then he bargained for. River is a hard, morally gray MMC.
Helene just wants to grieve the loss of her son, but when River enters the picture, everything changes.
River and Helene are two incredibly broken people, bonded together by trauma and a past that still haunts them. They were both in an incredible amount of survival mode.
Everything about Gigi's writing style is intense, drawn out, raw in the descriptions and doesnt hold anything back. You feel everything, the hurt, heartbreak, anger, frustration.
I highly recommend reading this book if you like dark military.
This story is gripping, dark and emotionally charged. Check the trigger warnings because this story does not shy away from trauma, violence, heartbreak, grief, and all the things that come with it. Your mental health matters.
To say this book did something to me is an understatement. After finishing it, I just started bawling. It is a raw, devastatingly, traumatic story that will stay with you for a while.
River is assigned to take Helenes life. But what he found is more then he bargained for. River is a hard, morally gray MMC.
Helene just wants to grieve the loss of her son, but when River enters the picture, everything changes.
River and Helene are two incredibly broken people, bonded together by trauma and a past that still haunts them. They were both in an incredible amount of survival mode.
Everything about Gigi's writing style is intense, drawn out, raw in the descriptions and doesnt hold anything back. You feel everything, the hurt, heartbreak, anger, frustration.
I highly recommend reading this book if you like dark military.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Happily Booked and Gigi Meier supplied this ARC.
This was an interesting read, I usually love Gigi's works, but although this was a great read, gruesome in places, I didn't feel the chemistry between the two main characters.
River has a LOT of issues, so does Helene for that matter,and, although similar they are miles apart. The opening sentence says it all really.
River has a job to do, a covert mission to take a life, one life. For a man with a kill list as long as his this is a cake walk. . . . .or it should be!
Helene goes about her day oblivious to the sniper hiding in her tulip fields, reminiscing about happier times with her son, before he was taken from her in an Op gone bad.
With all her training is Helene really as defenseless, and unaware as she appears?
Is River able to go through with his solo mission, and what would happen if it all fails?
The story is great, it will grip you, and have you wondering how is it all going to pull together, is the reader going to get an HEA? Hmmm. . . .
This was an interesting read, I usually love Gigi's works, but although this was a great read, gruesome in places, I didn't feel the chemistry between the two main characters.
River has a LOT of issues, so does Helene for that matter,and, although similar they are miles apart. The opening sentence says it all really.
River has a job to do, a covert mission to take a life, one life. For a man with a kill list as long as his this is a cake walk. . . . .or it should be!
Helene goes about her day oblivious to the sniper hiding in her tulip fields, reminiscing about happier times with her son, before he was taken from her in an Op gone bad.
With all her training is Helene really as defenseless, and unaware as she appears?
Is River able to go through with his solo mission, and what would happen if it all fails?
The story is great, it will grip you, and have you wondering how is it all going to pull together, is the reader going to get an HEA? Hmmm. . . .
Review of advance copy received from Author
I have received an ARC from the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review
4 stars
4 Spice
Dark, military romance where a military man comes to end the person who he believes was responsible for the death of his unit, stalking and watching for 3 years until he comes face to face with his best friends mother and realises everything he's been led to believe is not what it seems.
River is a dominant man with a tragic backstory, owned by the government who set him and his unit up for an untimely end. The sole survivor, he pours himself into his revenge until he comes face to face with the woman who he thinks is responsible and realises, there is a fine line between love and hate.
Helene is a grieving mother, lost in her grief and accepting that life doesn't mean much anymore after 3 years of losing her son on a job gone bad, resigned that she will eventually meet her fate one way or another. Until she comes face to face with River, a man who might give her the will to live again.
The rawness, brutal, gritty, uneven development of this couple's relationship is something anyone who has been unlucky enough to experience grief in their lifetime can relate to. From all consuming grief that manifests as revenge or hopeless life without colour. River and Helene's eventual solace in eachother is a hard won, derserved happy ending sprinkled with some Explicit Spice that is scorching! 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Please check trigger warnings as this book contains some dark themes that some may be uncomfortable with!
P.s I absolutely love Roscoe, such a loyal good boy 🥹
4 stars
4 Spice
Dark, military romance where a military man comes to end the person who he believes was responsible for the death of his unit, stalking and watching for 3 years until he comes face to face with his best friends mother and realises everything he's been led to believe is not what it seems.
River is a dominant man with a tragic backstory, owned by the government who set him and his unit up for an untimely end. The sole survivor, he pours himself into his revenge until he comes face to face with the woman who he thinks is responsible and realises, there is a fine line between love and hate.
Helene is a grieving mother, lost in her grief and accepting that life doesn't mean much anymore after 3 years of losing her son on a job gone bad, resigned that she will eventually meet her fate one way or another. Until she comes face to face with River, a man who might give her the will to live again.
The rawness, brutal, gritty, uneven development of this couple's relationship is something anyone who has been unlucky enough to experience grief in their lifetime can relate to. From all consuming grief that manifests as revenge or hopeless life without colour. River and Helene's eventual solace in eachother is a hard won, derserved happy ending sprinkled with some Explicit Spice that is scorching! 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Please check trigger warnings as this book contains some dark themes that some may be uncomfortable with!
P.s I absolutely love Roscoe, such a loyal good boy 🥹
May 27, 2026
I was invested in this story from the very beginning and it kept me in its grasp until the last word was read. This book is one of those that gets under your skin in the best ways and you have to keep turning page after page to know what’s going to happen. I absolutely devoured this story. It’s full of twists and turns that will have your heart beating fast and your palms sweating. The tension is deliciously intense and ever prevalent. I was on the edge of my seat to know where things would go. River is so intense and it really drew me in to his story and his connection to Helene. No part of their relationship or this book in general is sweet or soft. It’s raw and real and dark and twisted. But that doesn’t keep you from wanting both of these characters to find that other broken shard that fits with their broken edges. And that’s exactly what they are for each other. Their bruises and jagged parts fit together to make a scarred but beautifully dark piece.
Review of advance copy
I feel like someone just deposited me in a spy movie! There is so much tension! I really liked how I was immediately plunked down in the middle of the story without any preamble.
FMC Helene is a tulip farmer grieving her son. MMC River is on a mission to take out the person responsible for her son’s murder. The two clash in a dark, grief- filled, and lusty military romance. It is hot. It is DARK. It is intense.
I liked that the reverse age gap was a non- issue. Oh, it was there: she is the mother of his fallen brother. But the author is not explicit about the years between them because the focus is on the feelings between them.
This was my first book from Gigi Meier and I’m so happy to have received it as an ARC, thanks to Happily Booked and the author. I would definitely read more of her books!
FMC Helene is a tulip farmer grieving her son. MMC River is on a mission to take out the person responsible for her son’s murder. The two clash in a dark, grief- filled, and lusty military romance. It is hot. It is DARK. It is intense.
I liked that the reverse age gap was a non- issue. Oh, it was there: she is the mother of his fallen brother. But the author is not explicit about the years between them because the focus is on the feelings between them.
This was my first book from Gigi Meier and I’m so happy to have received it as an ARC, thanks to Happily Booked and the author. I would definitely read more of her books!
May 19, 2026
Twisted Tulip by GiGi Meier is a dark military romance with a dangerous obsession fueled by revenge and trauma. In this novel, we follow the story of our MMC River Reyes, a Marine Scout Sniper with a vendetta to kill our FMC Helene Ward for the death of his brothers in arms. From the start, I sat on the edge of my seat as each interaction between Reyes and Ward went from calculated revenge to emotional dependency due to shared guilt over a mission gone wrong. I really enjoyed how Meier wrote a story filled with a tense psychological slow burn where the chemistry was messy, and addictive. While Twisted Tulip might not be a fluffy romance, it is perfect for readers who enjoy a darker theme, angst, and obsession in their love stories!
I received an ARC copy from Happily Booked PR. Thank you so much for giving me a chance to read and voluntarily review this novel!
I received an ARC copy from Happily Booked PR. Thank you so much for giving me a chance to read and voluntarily review this novel!
May 26, 2026
An interesting story that included military, CIA, and FBI- everyone was tangled up in the death of FMC’s son and the revenge journey of MMC. MMC is hired to dispose of her after her son died to tie things up but can’t do it. She just wants to escape everything and grief her son. It’s dark, twisted, and insane!!. There is an age gap, morally grey characters, and a lot going on. It will wreck you in the best day. There is a lot of inner monologue that was a bit much and the beginning seemed like something was missing. I will say, this is part of a series I believe but this is the first book I have read. Maybe if I read other books, the beginning would have been more clear although I would consider this a standalone. Overall, it was an interesting read especially if you liked dark twisty stories. 3.5 stars
Review of advance copy received from Author
Well...well...well
Gigi is one of my go to authors and someone I'm privileged to ARC read for. So of course I jumped at this opportunity with open arms.
This is by far one of the darkest book I have ever read by Gigi. Completely different than all her boys that's for sure.
That being said it is written with grit, a twisted kind of logic, a raw emotion that seeps from every word.
This is a whole new type of writing by Gigi and one I believe that she excels in. She has stretched her talent and she shines brightly in the darkness of this world.
I honestly couldn't put this book down once I started it because I was compelled to find out the ending and the ending doesn't disappoint.
I'm truly honored to have been able to read this book and discover this new side to her.
Gigi is one of my go to authors and someone I'm privileged to ARC read for. So of course I jumped at this opportunity with open arms.
This is by far one of the darkest book I have ever read by Gigi. Completely different than all her boys that's for sure.
That being said it is written with grit, a twisted kind of logic, a raw emotion that seeps from every word.
This is a whole new type of writing by Gigi and one I believe that she excels in. She has stretched her talent and she shines brightly in the darkness of this world.
I honestly couldn't put this book down once I started it because I was compelled to find out the ending and the ending doesn't disappoint.
I'm truly honored to have been able to read this book and discover this new side to her.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Gigi Meier can write a book about paint drying and it’d still be exactly what I need. Everything in this book felt so raw and real, gave it all a justified feel. Helene and River both have plenty of baggage and they finally meet someone who can carry theirs along with their own. I can’t imagine losing your child in war and I also can’t imagine losing a best friend to war. Both the main characters find something/someone to live for, it seemed like only a few short days but maybe for life?
I was immediately hooked from the beginning of the story but I do feel like I slowed down a bit in the last 30% but was totally worth the read. Gigi Meier can do no wrong and I cannot wait to see what else she comes out with.
May 21, 2026
- Reverse age gap
- Dark romance
This is not a light book by any means, but it was compelling. I do love a complex character and River was multi-layered. He is a veteran with a lot of tr@um@ from his service. He focused all of his gr1ef at the woman he thought was responsible for his angst - Helene. However, she is gr1ev1ng as well, having lost her son during the same event that changed River's life. I can't even imagine how she coped after that. My mother's heart was hurting for her.
Soon River swaps his anger for something a bit more obsessive - Helene.
The chemistry between these two hurting souls was undeniable, but it was not an easy path for them. The raw emotions portrayed by both of them made this a sometimes difficult read, but trust the author.
- Dark romance
This is not a light book by any means, but it was compelling. I do love a complex character and River was multi-layered. He is a veteran with a lot of tr@um@ from his service. He focused all of his gr1ef at the woman he thought was responsible for his angst - Helene. However, she is gr1ev1ng as well, having lost her son during the same event that changed River's life. I can't even imagine how she coped after that. My mother's heart was hurting for her.
Soon River swaps his anger for something a bit more obsessive - Helene.
The chemistry between these two hurting souls was undeniable, but it was not an easy path for them. The raw emotions portrayed by both of them made this a sometimes difficult read, but trust the author.
May 22, 2026
I want to say thank you for letting me read this book early in exchange for my honest thoughts. I always enjoy getting a sneak peek at stories before they come out.
At first, I felt a bit confused. It was like I had started reading in the middle of a story and didn’t have all the background. Some parts felt like I was missing pieces to understand what was going on. It took me a little while to get used to the world and the characters.
Once I got past that, I started to enjoy the story more. The characters felt more real, and the plot started to make sense. I found myself wanting to keep reading because the story was interesting. Overall, I think it’s a good book, but it took me a bit longer than usual to really get into it.
At first, I felt a bit confused. It was like I had started reading in the middle of a story and didn’t have all the background. Some parts felt like I was missing pieces to understand what was going on. It took me a little while to get used to the world and the characters.
Once I got past that, I started to enjoy the story more. The characters felt more real, and the plot started to make sense. I found myself wanting to keep reading because the story was interesting. Overall, I think it’s a good book, but it took me a bit longer than usual to really get into it.
May 24, 2026
I received this as an Advanced Reader Copy from Happily Booked.
Helene is ex-CIA and after her son dies on a mission, she has a mental breakdown and becomes a tulip farmer. River, a brother in arms of Helene’s son, has been on a vengeance mission for 3 years. But that doesn’t go as planned. This book contains so many twists and turns that I had a hard time putting it down.
This book discusses some of my favorite themes - morally grey, found family, obsession, reverse age gap. I genuinely was so surprised with how much I loved this book. This is my first book from this author and I’ll be reading more. I loved the CIA/military aspect and the underlying story. And the spicy scenes were great!
Helene is ex-CIA and after her son dies on a mission, she has a mental breakdown and becomes a tulip farmer. River, a brother in arms of Helene’s son, has been on a vengeance mission for 3 years. But that doesn’t go as planned. This book contains so many twists and turns that I had a hard time putting it down.
This book discusses some of my favorite themes - morally grey, found family, obsession, reverse age gap. I genuinely was so surprised with how much I loved this book. This is my first book from this author and I’ll be reading more. I loved the CIA/military aspect and the underlying story. And the spicy scenes were great!
May 27, 2026
This was my first book by this author, and honestly I hadn't heard of her until I got an invite through Happily Booked PR. The tropes and blurb had me immediately wanting, and I'm glad I was actually able to get it! While at times I felt a little lost, almost like I was missing something, but I chalked that up to this being the only book I've read by this author and I know how so many other authors have crossover characters and stories. Other than that, I completely devoured this story. It was dark, spicy, filled with twist and turns that had me completely glued to the page, and the added angst that was just enough to help completethe story. River and Helene really had to work for their hea and I enjoyed every moment of it!
May 20, 2026
Oh Gigi Meier what have you done to me?!?!?!?!
I love a broody man, and when he has sniper training, grief and barely holding on, that's the ticket I'm there. He's fantastically broken and then is sent to kill Helene. That woman is.... just... WOW. Instead of running she opens her arms and welcomes River in, the man sent to kill her. She's had enough, she's exhausted, and tired of carrying all of the secrets that she has.
I love Gigi's books, every one that I've read, and this one was probably her best one yet. Fantastic job Ms. M!!!! The advanced reader copy was provided by Gigi Meier and Happily Booked, the review is mine.
I love a broody man, and when he has sniper training, grief and barely holding on, that's the ticket I'm there. He's fantastically broken and then is sent to kill Helene. That woman is.... just... WOW. Instead of running she opens her arms and welcomes River in, the man sent to kill her. She's had enough, she's exhausted, and tired of carrying all of the secrets that she has.
I love Gigi's books, every one that I've read, and this one was probably her best one yet. Fantastic job Ms. M!!!! The advanced reader copy was provided by Gigi Meier and Happily Booked, the review is mine.
May 25, 2026
Twisted Tulip by Gigi Meier is the story of Helene and River.
Helene, a former CIA Counterintelligence officer has made some very difficult decisions, including one that led to the death of her son Alec. River is a marine who has been sent to kill Helene to avenge Alec’s death. But when he has the perfect shot, he doesn’t take it.
River and Helene both know pain and together, their story changes from one of revenge to obsession.
I thought this was a great spicy novel that could easily be read in 1 to 2 sittings. The characters were believable, and the storyline was both complex and very spicy. This book was a great addition to the Garden of Desire series.
Helene, a former CIA Counterintelligence officer has made some very difficult decisions, including one that led to the death of her son Alec. River is a marine who has been sent to kill Helene to avenge Alec’s death. But when he has the perfect shot, he doesn’t take it.
River and Helene both know pain and together, their story changes from one of revenge to obsession.
I thought this was a great spicy novel that could easily be read in 1 to 2 sittings. The characters were believable, and the storyline was both complex and very spicy. This book was a great addition to the Garden of Desire series.
May 26, 2026
I very much enjoyed the way this book started as a story of revenge, and then took a bunch of turns. Whilst both the main characters are carrying around guilt and grief for various reasons, they deal with them in very different ways. He's out for revenge, in a rather not healthy way it has to be said. She seems to have given up. When she realises their grief is connected things change. Although their relationship starts off rather unhealthily, I loved watching it develop and change over the course of the book. Her dog is the goodest of boys, and deserves all the treats and pets, even if he does also cause chaos at times. (The dog does not get hurt!)
May 27, 2026
I Am Ecstatic to have been selected as an Arc Reader for this book! I Literally didn’t NOT want to Stop reading until finished it ALL!!
The story of River & Helene is a Spicy 🌶️ Dark Romance 🖤
Where they -Both- know & understand Pain. I was in tears one moment and “Clutching My Pearls” the next 🥵
I Definitely Recommend this book, as it is now, on of My Top Rated 💯💥
Please Please Know Your Triggers and Do Check the List ⚠️‼️
Twisted Tulip 🌷 by @authorgigmeier is now available!
What to expect:
🖤Dark Romance
🌶️Spicy Reverse Age
Touch Her and ☠️
💀Revenge Obsession
💪🏼Force Proximity
😡Possessive Hero
#newrelease #booksbooksbooks #kindleunlimited @happilybookedpr
The story of River & Helene is a Spicy 🌶️ Dark Romance 🖤
Where they -Both- know & understand Pain. I was in tears one moment and “Clutching My Pearls” the next 🥵
I Definitely Recommend this book, as it is now, on of My Top Rated 💯💥
Please Please Know Your Triggers and Do Check the List ⚠️‼️
Twisted Tulip 🌷 by @authorgigmeier is now available!
What to expect:
🖤Dark Romance
🌶️Spicy Reverse Age
Touch Her and ☠️
💀Revenge Obsession
💪🏼Force Proximity
😡Possessive Hero
#newrelease #booksbooksbooks #kindleunlimited @happilybookedpr
Review of advance copy received from Author
River and Helene
If you want twisted and dark, then this is for.
No ages, but it can be assumed it’s a hefty reverse age-gap considering what connects them.
This is one heck of a thriller - not full action-packed suspense, but more in the way that you just don’t know what the fallout will be.
From the first page, I was invested. I knew it would be twisted, and oh my… hot, twisted, perverse and so, so delicious.
Thanks, Gigi Meier, for the advance copy. Morally grey at its finest, and well worth the read.
If you want twisted and dark, then this is for.
No ages, but it can be assumed it’s a hefty reverse age-gap considering what connects them.
This is one heck of a thriller - not full action-packed suspense, but more in the way that you just don’t know what the fallout will be.
From the first page, I was invested. I knew it would be twisted, and oh my… hot, twisted, perverse and so, so delicious.
Thanks, Gigi Meier, for the advance copy. Morally grey at its finest, and well worth the read.
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