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STILL WANTED : Taboo Obsession Romance

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“If I say you safe with me, believe it. Even if I’m the danger.” — Ransom

Ransom Steele wasn’t supposed to fall for her.
Vayla Monroe wasn’t supposed to touch a man like him.

He’s a street king learning to live in silence after years of chaos—an empire under investigation, a reputation built on fear, and a heart that’s never trusted peace.
She’s the journalist who’s spent her life chasing truth, not temptation. But when her story collides with his world, danger turns intimate and lines blur between power and vulnerability.

What starts as curiosity becomes obsession.
What feels like a secret becomes survival.

In a city where loyalty is currency and love can cost your life, Ransom and Vayla learn that peace isn’t promised—sometimes, it’s stolen.

STILL WANTED is a dark, emotional, and dangerously romantic standalone about two people who should’ve walked away, but didn’t.

328 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 10, 2026

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About the author

Robin

352 books86 followers
single-name author and
single-name illustrator

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5 stars
283 (75%)
4 stars
64 (17%)
3 stars
25 (6%)
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3 (<1%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
Profile Image for Toya  Davis-Stokley.
2,670 reviews111 followers
February 20, 2026
Ma'am!!! You did your big one with this! 😍🥰 Vayla was living her best life, until her husband did the unthinkable!! 🤬 Leaving her devastated, fearful, cautious, and closed off to love. Cause if love can do THAT, ion want it!! 💔 But sis rose from the ashes and became more than her illness. She was top notch at her job and surrounded by loving family and friends. Covering the infamous Ransom Steele's story had her both intrigued and curious about the man behind the rumors, and numerous charges.

Mr. Ransom Steele is fighting for his freedom in court, while battling his own issues in private. The world sees him as a monster, but he is just a man who knows how to play the game better than most. This man is meticulous, and strategic, keeping him steps ahead from those trying to take him down. When he learns of this journalist, who writes about him with compassion he was fascinated. Meeting her in person ups the ante', as she is feisty and doesn't back down from him. Even after learning all that comes with Vayla, he was still full speed ahead.

I enjoyed the slow burn between these two. The pacing was perfect, and I felt like I was right there while they were getting to know one another. I loved the vulnerability that they shared about their fears, hopes, and dreams. Ransom was intentional in his pursuit of Vayla, as he wanted her to know that she deserved a second chance at love and life, just as anyone else did. When they fell, they fell hard and loved each other fiercely, which was beautiful to watch unfold.

I can't lie and say I didn't get nervous several times during the trial, and worried for both Ransom and Vayla. No need as things played out just as they were supposed to. Amazing read! 👍🏿👍🏿👍🏿
Profile Image for Neek Brown.
112 reviews18 followers
February 11, 2026
ARC Review | Still Wanted by Robin

“If I say you safe with me, believe it. Even if I’m the danger.”
That line alone captures the emotional tension at the heart of Still Wanted.
Still Wanted is a dark, emotionally charged romance that explores what it means to choose love when safety is never guaranteed. Ransom Steele is a compelling and complex male lead. A street king with an empire under investigation and a reputation built on fear, he is a man shaped by chaos and consequence. His journey toward silence and restraint after years of violence adds depth to his character, making him more than the sum of his past. Ransom’s struggle to trust peace, even when it is within reach, is one of the most intriguing aspects of the story.
Vayla Monroe is a strong and intentional counterpart. As a journalist committed to truth, she enters Ransom’s world with awareness rather than innocence. Her presence challenges the boundaries he has built around himself, and their connection develops with a sense of emotional gravity. The dynamic between them is rooted not only in attraction but in vulnerability, shifting power, and difficult choices that carry real consequences.
What makes Still Wanted especially impactful is its portrayal of love as both refuge and risk. Curiosity deepens into obsession, secrecy becomes necessary for survival, and loyalty is tested at every turn. In a city where trust is currency and danger is constant, the relationship between Ransom and Vayla feels earned, intense, and deeply human.
This story balances tension with emotional depth, offering a romance that does not rely on easy resolutions. Instead, it presents a connection forged under pressure, shaped by sacrifice, and sustained by choice. As a standalone, Still Wanted delivers a complete and satisfying emotional arc while leaving a lasting impression.
Profile Image for Ladi Tee Inferno.
203 reviews4 followers
February 21, 2026
So Profound

Ransom, a real man. We catch him on trial for his freedom. From outside, you can't see the health battle he faces. He wants it that way. He's not surrounded by an entourage, or embraces spotlights. He's just the opposite. Stays to himself but once he's zeroed in on Vayla, it's ten toes down. Not aggressive or possessive but intentional. He's aware of the public spewing her health issues but is not swayed. In fact, the opposite. He's determined to get to know her, the woman, not the illness nor the highly respected reporter, just Vayla Monroe. He's determined to show her real love, patient, direct, solely at her pace and definitely only for her. They complimented one another and offered the strength when the other was low. How they maneuvered brought them more peace, clarity, love and a little more than expected and I loved every page. Not slow, just detailed. Chef's kiss!!
Profile Image for Taees_Cozy_Corner.
886 reviews1 follower
February 24, 2026
3.75 🌟’s. I thought this was a good story and the way she pulled you in really did make you want to jump in and keep going. I think for me the way it started I was expecting a bit more from that story line it just more drama than I felt it was, but that’s not bad i think my expectations was just different from what i received. I definitely would recommend reading the book though. She did a fantastic job with both characters medically and I thought it was nice to even see a character with HIV and the way she handled it. Their love story was really cute and I love how he didn’t let anyone play with her, and how despite all she felt about her past and herself he still showed her she was more than that. I enjoyed it.
Profile Image for Lexi.
447 reviews11 followers
February 28, 2026
This was a really good read! I enjoyed Vayla & Ransom 🫶🏾 What Dorian did to Vayla was nastyyyyy work, I mean absolutely diabolical. Vayla was such a strong woman though. I’m glad we were able to see her in a space where she could love & be loved despite her diagnosis. Ransom was a mannnn. He knew that he wanted Vayla & applied pressure. I love the fact that he didn’t judge her & constantly reminded her that he wasn’t scared to give her the love she needed. Vayla never looked at Ransom like he was a monster or a bad man throughout his entire trial & I think he needed that. The Phantoms & Steeles are big on loyalty & they definitely showed that with each other. I was happy to see Kairo & see The Phantoms & Steeles join together in a official capacity 💙❤️ I do think this was a necessary story to tell because it’s not often that we see someone with the diagnosis Vayla has receive the love & care that everyone deserves despite any condition they have. I highly recommend this book & you will not regret picking it up!
Profile Image for Monique McKinney .
288 reviews2 followers
February 15, 2026
Excellent Book

I read this as an ARC read. Then, I came back and read it again.
This book had me on the edge from the beginning to the end.
Vayla's ex-husband was horrible. He knew he had HIV and still decided to sleep with Vayla. I felt the emotions when the book opened up. I would have killed him, too. Not only did he cheat in her, but he also gave her HIV. I understand why she had trust issues.
Ranson was a well-known Kingpin. He was on trial. He was killing people, but the cops were just as horrible as him.
Vayla met Ranson when she interviewed him.
I was on the edge of my seats, the whole book. They fell in love. Ranson knew he had to take care of her. She was his peace.
When you find someone who can be your peace, you have to keep them.
Cherish the person because you never get another person like that.
I would recommend this book.
Profile Image for Aestheticallyreading_.
62 reviews5 followers
March 15, 2026
“If I say you safe with me, believe it. Even if I’m the danger.” — Ransom


Taboo romance whewww. Ransom Ransom Ransom…
Imagine being Seen. Heard. Understood. Without even opening your mouth. This the type of love story that you sit and daydream about. What i loved most in the story is the FMC is going through an epidemic that has plague the black community everyday. Despite her having HIV she still moves through life with confidence, grace and stride but when Ransom comes around it’s like he hears the silent battles and heals the scars that she won’t speak out loud. I love that they both have a past and they both don’t judge for that past. Whewww. Listen all i can say is this book is a trophy 🏆 & if Robin writes ✍️ It im damn sure reading it. I have to give her her flowers 💐 everytime but this romance (outside of Kairo) is very special to me ❤️😮‍💨
Profile Image for Ju Berrymore.
118 reviews20 followers
February 23, 2026
Love Unconditional 💜

Still Wanted is my first romance where a main character is HIV positive, and I have to give Robin her flowers. The care, the research, and the humanity poured into Vayla’s character was evident on every page. Her journey explored stigma, self-worth, what it really means to be loved without conditions, and was handled with depth and respect.

Ransom is a feared street king facing legal trouble and battling anemia, yet learning how to love softly in a world that taught him to be hard. The courtroom drama, the suspense, and the emotional vulnerability...chef’s kiss!

This story was dark, emotional, and important.
A 5⭐️ read and a powerful perspective on unconditional love.
Profile Image for TheTBRWhisperer.
214 reviews
February 26, 2026
first read by this author and when I say I am impressed...

Impressed!

Any author willing to take on big topics like this- kudos.

To handle with such care and attentiveness-impressive!

the blood disorder symbolism between the FMC and MMC was so well written and executed.

I loved the education and the realism of both disease processes.

I enjoyed how their respective diseases were a strong part of the story but not the focal point.

It was about tw0 people who found love, peace, and healing with one another after experiencing betrayal from their previous relationships.

The unconditional love and respect- amazing

check your trigger warnings and author's note and once that's clear, I highly recommend this read!
Profile Image for Wava.
58 reviews
February 12, 2026
I had the pleasure of reading this book as an ARC reader. My review is not bias in anyway.

Ransom & Vayla's stories were well layered. It wasn't just a man meets woman & they fall in love. They both had trauma & baggage. I love reading authors that are inclusive in their writing, not every character can be perfect.

Even though Ransom & Vayla had a lot to carry, they both were able to handle the load. Vayla's story showed that no matter what, you are worthy to be loved & you are not your mistake. Ransom learned that sometimes you have to let someone else step in & manage things.
This was a very good read!!
Profile Image for Shei Polk.
144 reviews
February 12, 2026
Through sickness and health!

After reading the authors note I have to admit I was apprehensive to continue reading.

Having a “house in Virginia “ is such a taboo topic but I feel like the author did an amazing job telling Vayla’s story. It was refreshing to read about how she managed to live through such a devastating diagnosis.

Ransom was a man and he wasn’t scared of anything that came with Vayla.

I loved how the book painted a very realistic picture of life after what you think will kill you.

And the teaser at the end has me wanting to know what is going to come of Ares.
92 reviews
February 19, 2026
OMG

Loved, Loved this book. It had the right amount of pacing. The character development was just enough and the plot flowed. This was well written and it kept me up late at night to finish. The love story between Ransom and Vayla was unique. The fact that their families were well known and their paths never crossed prior was shocking. It made me chuckle that they were viewed as Hood Royalty.😂 I was pleased with the overall novel and the fact that the author did not drag the story out by making it a sequel. I appreciate authors that finishes an entire story in one book as it was done once upon a time. I think I have found my new author to follow.
Profile Image for Ty.
28 reviews3 followers
March 22, 2026
This book is such a powerful and emotional read. It follows a woman who’s betrayed by her husband in the worst way—his reckless choices not only destroy their marriage but also change her life forever. What really stands out is her strength. Even after everything she goes through, she refuses to let her situation define her.

I also loved how her journey doesn’t just stop at survival. When she meets Ransom, you see a different side of her—one that slowly opens back up to love and trust. Their relationship is really touching, especially since they’re both dealing with serious health struggles. It’s not perfect or easy, but it feels real and deeply supportive.

Overall, it’s a story about resilience, healing, and finding love again when you least expect it. Definitely an inspiring read.
Profile Image for Lanashe Dewalt.
15 reviews1 follower
February 12, 2026
Ransom 🖤Vayla

I cried a time or 2 . Robin your writing is so special.
I truly get the betrayal Vayla felt after what that fuq ninja did . She is a strong woman who survived and got a love that she truly needed and deserved.
Ransom the quiet and calm i love this man down. If stand on business was a person Ransom is it bae. He is a man of few words but many actions. The love and peace these two provided for one another despite their situations is one for the books and the real world. Congrats Ransom and Vayla on the babies
48 reviews
February 12, 2026
Ransom!!!

Robin came through with another banger!!!!!!!

Vayla was really that girl . Like despite everything you were never about to play with my girl & Ransom for sure didn’t play about ha!!! I truly appreciate everything about this book. It touched topics I know most are scared to even write about. But this story will show you dont judge because you never know a persons situation and certain things DONOT change a persons worth !!!! I truly enjoyed this book from beginning to end and you will too! Gone hit download and dive in 😉
Profile Image for Helen Clark.
1,095 reviews5 followers
February 13, 2026
LOVE KNOWS NO BOUNDARIES

Robin came out swinging from the beginning to the end of this story. She left no stone unturned.
The best part of this story is the title (Still Wanted) because it held true for Ransom and Vayla. I loved that Ransom loved Vayla aloud without hesitation no matter what the rumors were. No matter the obstacles or challenges they were up for the challenge.

PS Love will make you change your mind about things you think you cannot accept in your life.

¡¡¡P H E N O M A N A L STORY!!!
Profile Image for Renada Boddie.
285 reviews15 followers
February 14, 2026
Ransom will move the world for Vayla

Unexpectedly finding someone that allows you to be the softest version of yourself is exactly what Ransom Steele gave to Vayla. Ransom is a grown man in every aspect of his life. He’s the calm, dangerous storm that no one sees coming. Vayla lives every moment of her life in her truth. She does hide she stands on business. What neither one of them was looking for was the genuine love they found in each other. This has been my favorite read of the year so far.
Profile Image for Bianca C.
220 reviews
February 14, 2026
Thank you to Robin for the ARC review. This was a first read for me by this author and she didn't disappoint. Robin shows tension between Vayla and Ransom yet there's tenderness within the banter as well. Ransom gives BDE but also came hard for Vayla in spite of what she and he had going on. Caution it was a slow burn but once things started there was no turning back. The author did a great job of showing the characters' quiet, internal battles where desire, self control and vulnerability collide.
Profile Image for Shaunda B |.
18 reviews
February 12, 2026
POV: You found a book that makes you finish it in one sitting. 📖🔥

I’m still reeling from Ransom and Vayla. STILL WANTED is the perfect mix of taboo, obsession, and pure emotion. The chemistry? Top tier. The "obsessed hero" energy? Off the charts. The way he loves her out loud is everything I didn't know I needed.

Trope: Street King x Journalist / Protective Hero

Phoenix & Soul Reads: Read. Rate. Rise.
84 reviews1 follower
February 14, 2026
too good

Robin’s pen never disappoints. Her pen game is sick and I couldn’t even put down the book. Reading this, I was moved so deeply. As gangsta as Ransom was; he knew when and how to be soft for his Vay. This was a love letter for those who fight unseen battles, whether it’s a disease of the mind or the body, born with it or in Vayla’s case given. It show that love connects to the soul and if you are loved right; it brings its own healing. This book was too good.
Profile Image for Elizabeth.
259 reviews
February 20, 2026
A banger

I loved how Robin brought characters with different struggles but they both didn’t let them overtake her. Having a character that has an incurable disease that is often looked down on brought her struggle to life. I liked that she kept the facts real and even included the treatments. Ransom was just what Vayla needed to believe in love again and Vayla was his missing peace that brought him peace.
Profile Image for Verlana Munn.
2,078 reviews40 followers
March 3, 2026
The World Doesn't Always Have To Be Gray

Robin, what a great love story. I loved these characters they went through the fire and came out with a bit of singe. To see how people can need one another and against all odds their love will make all the hell that happened worth the wait. Revenge is always served on a hot bed. I loved how you touched on taboo subjects that could cause most to crumble made these two strong. Great read🤗🤗🤗🤗🤗
Profile Image for Lisa Charmaine  S..
52 reviews
April 26, 2026
Fell in love with this couple...

🥰🥰🥰 Just finished STILL WANTED and these two (Ransom Steele & Vayla Phantom) yeeeea, I f*ck with them reeeeeal bad. They came together intentionally and built their relationship step by step. No games, no pretending. Real grown, evenly yolked, creating soul ties type vibe.
I loved their matching dark streaks and creative ways of getting revenge.
954 reviews
February 11, 2026
What do you do when the person you trusted betrayed you in a horrible way? Meet Vay! What she went thru and continued to go thru made her stronger. Ransom did not stigmatize her, but treated her without fear.

Take a ride with this couple as they both battled trials and tribulations! Ransom was nothing to play with at all!


Profile Image for Tina Bell.
238 reviews2 followers
March 10, 2026
different and good

When I read the sample on Amazon I was hooked. This book was really good. Ransom showed Vayla after everything she went through and was still dealing with that love still exists. He made sure to always show her even with all that he had to deal with that he would always be there for her. Nice palate cleanser. Would recommend
256 reviews1 follower
March 29, 2026
This was 🔥

Ransom didn’t let a status or legal troubles stop him from getting the woman he wanted. He made Vayla feel. He brought her peace. They built something she always wanted. They were perfect for each other no matter the illnesses they had to deal with. I loved this story. Ransom came out on top 💪🏾
Profile Image for Denise.
1,497 reviews5 followers
March 30, 2026
Great Read

Ransommmm, let me go out and search for me one of those real men. Vayla was hit by a reality that no woman should ever face by her husband, but then here comes Ransom and shows her how a real man is supposed to treat a woman! This right here was couples goals, and I love how he took his time and let Vay get comfortable with him! Awesome Read
Profile Image for Sade-Kemi Brown.
76 reviews3 followers
April 17, 2026
A movie!

Omg this is one of the best standalones that I've read all year. I enjoyed the beauty of watching characters find someone that understands their pain and can help them move past. This work was beautifully written and I would highly recommend this book! I'm normally not a fan of slowburns, but I'll read this two or three times over.
1 review
February 11, 2026
Great read

I always wondered how Ransom's story would turn out after showing up for Christmas. This was a great read and I could barely close my Kindle app. Everything I've read from Robin has been 5 stars. I'm glad they survived after the storm.
2 reviews
February 13, 2026
Love it

I love how Ransom wasn’t scared to LOVE Vayla due to her having HIV. Also you educated us all the medicines. Vayla needed Ransom and I’m glad she opened up and let him in.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews