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A fast-paced romantic suspense about betrayal, justice, and the redemptive power of love amid dark Hollywood secrets.
When photographer Riley Temple develops a roll of film and uncovers an image of a murdered woman, she becomes the target of a deadly Hollywood conspiracy. The deeper she digs, the clearer it becomes that someone powerful wants her silenced.
Her only ally is LAPD Detective Quinn Burton, a man whose loyalty to his family and the force is as unshakable as his attraction to Riley. Their partnership sparks an undeniable chemistry, but their investigation threatens to expose his father—the city’s police commissioner—as part of a secret society thriller that rules Los Angeles’s elite.
As Riley and Quinn race to uncover the truth, danger closes in. Caught between duty and desire, they’ll have to trust each other to survive. But in this world of love, lies, and corruption, trust could be the most dangerous choice of all.
A Hollywood conspiracy. A forbidden attraction. A truth worth dying for.
When photographer Riley Temple develops a roll of film and uncovers an image of a murdered woman, she becomes the target of a deadly Hollywood conspiracy. The deeper she digs, the clearer it becomes that someone powerful wants her silenced.
Her only ally is LAPD Detective Quinn Burton, a man whose loyalty to his family and the force is as unshakable as his attraction to Riley. Their partnership sparks an undeniable chemistry, but their investigation threatens to expose his father—the city’s police commissioner—as part of a secret society thriller that rules Los Angeles’s elite.
As Riley and Quinn race to uncover the truth, danger closes in. Caught between duty and desire, they’ll have to trust each other to survive. But in this world of love, lies, and corruption, trust could be the most dangerous choice of all.
A Hollywood conspiracy. A forbidden attraction. A truth worth dying for.
392 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 31, 2026
About the author
Anna J. Stewart
245 books753 followersAnna J Stewart is the USA Today bestselling author of more than fifty sweet to spicy romances. She primarily writes for Harlequin's Heartwarming (sweet romance) and Romantic Suspense (spicy romance). In addition to being a Holt Medallion winner (Bride on the Run), she’s finaled in the Daphne duMaurier Award for Excellence, the National Readers’ Choice and had one of her books optioned as a TV movie. No matter the story, Anna’s books are always about family—the ones we’re born to and the ones we create. Anna lives in Northern California where she loves going to the movies, attending fan conventions, and heading to Disneyland, her favorite place on earth. When she’s not writing, she is usually cooking, baking, binge-watching her newest TV addiction, or re-watching her all-time favorite shows, Supernatural and all things Star Trek and Star Wars She also spends a frustrating amount of time wrangling two monstrous cats named Rosie and Sherlock. You can read more about Anna, her books, and her workshops for authors at www.AuthorAnnaStewart.com.
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
April 19, 2026
Reviewed at Happily Ever After Romance
Framed begins the Circle of the Red Lily series with an intense romantic suspense that kept me engaged and on edge throughout Riley and Quinn’s story. I’ve enjoyed Anna J. Stewart’s work for years now, and this one is Ms. Stewart at her best. If you haven’t read any of her romances before, then you are in for a true treat with Framed, which adds layers of secrets, mystery, old Hollywood glimpses, intense suspense, and hidden connections that kept me flipping pages.
Frankly, anything you would really need to know before picking up Riley and Quinn’s story is in the Cover Description. To go into much more detail would, in my opinion, reveal too much, for this is a story you’ll want to experience with all the danger and romance firsthand. There are things I can safely mention that don’t qualify as spoilers, such as how intriguing the hobby of finding and developing old film rolls is. What treasures (and junk) could be found, a look into the past forever frozen on film… even the possibility of a murder years ago! I adored Riley’s found family with her Great Aunt Moxie and the residents of her home, which has been turned into apartments. Quirky, adorable, and smart residents who add so much to the story. The instant attraction between Riley and Quinn felt realistic, and watching their relationship develop was a charming, emotional journey. I adore a protective man, even if Riley could take care of herself. The villain here is vile, and discovering the intent and the meaning behind the red lily was intriguing as clues are unearthed and connections are made.
I enjoyed Framed so much. It’s well-written, intriguing, passionate, and emotional. It’s also filled with danger, mysteries, and unexpected twists. I was not only fully involved but on edge from the opening page through to the last. If you enjoy a good romance with danger and suspense, if fitting clues and puzzle pieces together is a reading experience you look forward to, then you’d love Riley and Quinn’s story.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the author or the author’s team via Booksprout, and I sincerely thank them for their trust. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
Framed begins the Circle of the Red Lily series with an intense romantic suspense that kept me engaged and on edge throughout Riley and Quinn’s story. I’ve enjoyed Anna J. Stewart’s work for years now, and this one is Ms. Stewart at her best. If you haven’t read any of her romances before, then you are in for a true treat with Framed, which adds layers of secrets, mystery, old Hollywood glimpses, intense suspense, and hidden connections that kept me flipping pages.
Frankly, anything you would really need to know before picking up Riley and Quinn’s story is in the Cover Description. To go into much more detail would, in my opinion, reveal too much, for this is a story you’ll want to experience with all the danger and romance firsthand. There are things I can safely mention that don’t qualify as spoilers, such as how intriguing the hobby of finding and developing old film rolls is. What treasures (and junk) could be found, a look into the past forever frozen on film… even the possibility of a murder years ago! I adored Riley’s found family with her Great Aunt Moxie and the residents of her home, which has been turned into apartments. Quirky, adorable, and smart residents who add so much to the story. The instant attraction between Riley and Quinn felt realistic, and watching their relationship develop was a charming, emotional journey. I adore a protective man, even if Riley could take care of herself. The villain here is vile, and discovering the intent and the meaning behind the red lily was intriguing as clues are unearthed and connections are made.
I enjoyed Framed so much. It’s well-written, intriguing, passionate, and emotional. It’s also filled with danger, mysteries, and unexpected twists. I was not only fully involved but on edge from the opening page through to the last. If you enjoy a good romance with danger and suspense, if fitting clues and puzzle pieces together is a reading experience you look forward to, then you’d love Riley and Quinn’s story.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the author or the author’s team via Booksprout, and I sincerely thank them for their trust. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
April 1, 2026
Riley Temple, professional photographer and sometimes paparazzi, has a hobby; she enjoys finding and developing old, undeveloped rolls of film. She often buys them from her late grandfather’s friend and pawn shop owner, Merle Paddock. When her most recent acquisition of film leads to Merle’s serious attack and the murder of a homeless man, Riley’s life takes a turn.
LAPD Detective Quinn Burton is assigned to the case, and he intends to discover who’s behind the attack. What he doesn’t expect is the instant attraction that develops between him and Riley. He’s all in on following through on the relationship, but he’s not going to let that interfere with his investigation.
When Riley’s involvement in the case repeatedly puts her life in danger, Quinn Burton will do whatever he can to keep her safe. What that, eventually, leads to is the discovery of a house of horrors and a plethora of missing young women. He finds himself with more questions than he can answer, and finds himself facing pushback from higher ups when he works to find those answers.
Riley lives in Temple House with her Great Aunt Moxie, a star from the golden age of movies. Moxie has a secret and Quinn wants to know what it is, but Riley is protective of her aunt. Other residents in the building, Riley’s self-made family of friends, offer support, protection, and comfort.
I loved this book, ;the first in the Circle of the Red Lily series. It’s involving, entertaining, and will both keep the reader turning pages and sitting on the edge of their seat. It is a beautifully developed romantic thriller that’s peppered with humor. It’s realistic, believable, and offers great suspenseful scenes.
I highly recommend this book.
I received an advanced reader copy of this book from the publisher, Tule. I thank all involved for their generosity, but it had no effect on this review. All opinions in this review reflect my true and honest reactions to reading this book.
LAPD Detective Quinn Burton is assigned to the case, and he intends to discover who’s behind the attack. What he doesn’t expect is the instant attraction that develops between him and Riley. He’s all in on following through on the relationship, but he’s not going to let that interfere with his investigation.
When Riley’s involvement in the case repeatedly puts her life in danger, Quinn Burton will do whatever he can to keep her safe. What that, eventually, leads to is the discovery of a house of horrors and a plethora of missing young women. He finds himself with more questions than he can answer, and finds himself facing pushback from higher ups when he works to find those answers.
Riley lives in Temple House with her Great Aunt Moxie, a star from the golden age of movies. Moxie has a secret and Quinn wants to know what it is, but Riley is protective of her aunt. Other residents in the building, Riley’s self-made family of friends, offer support, protection, and comfort.
I loved this book, ;the first in the Circle of the Red Lily series. It’s involving, entertaining, and will both keep the reader turning pages and sitting on the edge of their seat. It is a beautifully developed romantic thriller that’s peppered with humor. It’s realistic, believable, and offers great suspenseful scenes.
I highly recommend this book.
I received an advanced reader copy of this book from the publisher, Tule. I thank all involved for their generosity, but it had no effect on this review. All opinions in this review reflect my true and honest reactions to reading this book.
March 31, 2026
OMG...I've been reading Ms. Stewart for a long time. This goes beyond what I've read in the past and is a fabulous romantic suspense story...with the emphasis on suspense. The characters are well thought out and deep. Things happen, and it makes you think...well I didn't see that coming!
Riley Temple is a child of Hollywood, Old Hollywood and current Hollywood. She and her Aunt own a building that was once a rooming house to the ingénues of the studio system and her Aunt was one of those young ladies long ago. That's her tie to Old Hollywood. Now, she is making her living as a paparazzo, but that's just to pay the bills. Her love is photography. She loves finding old film and developing it. She has feelers out to many pawn shops and when they come across some old 35mm film, she will purchase it and develop it. This time, she gets a canister of film, and what is on it leads to the murder of a homeless friend and the beating of the pawn shop owner who was a friend of her grandfathers.. The police are called and....wow....we're off on a great read!!
Riley's parents were killed years earlier and she was raised by her Aunt and her Grandfather. Once she meets the homicide detective who has this case, her animosity for the police is very apparent. Detective Quinn Burton is intrigued with Riley's attitude toward the police.
This story just gets deeper and deeper. I loved it all. Since this is book one of the Circle of the Red Lily, the mystery for Riley and Quinn is resolved, but, there are so many more things that can happen with the characters we've been introduced to in this book. It seems they all are tied together and the epilogue leads us right into the next in the series. I can't wait!!
Riley Temple is a child of Hollywood, Old Hollywood and current Hollywood. She and her Aunt own a building that was once a rooming house to the ingénues of the studio system and her Aunt was one of those young ladies long ago. That's her tie to Old Hollywood. Now, she is making her living as a paparazzo, but that's just to pay the bills. Her love is photography. She loves finding old film and developing it. She has feelers out to many pawn shops and when they come across some old 35mm film, she will purchase it and develop it. This time, she gets a canister of film, and what is on it leads to the murder of a homeless friend and the beating of the pawn shop owner who was a friend of her grandfathers.. The police are called and....wow....we're off on a great read!!
Riley's parents were killed years earlier and she was raised by her Aunt and her Grandfather. Once she meets the homicide detective who has this case, her animosity for the police is very apparent. Detective Quinn Burton is intrigued with Riley's attitude toward the police.
This story just gets deeper and deeper. I loved it all. Since this is book one of the Circle of the Red Lily, the mystery for Riley and Quinn is resolved, but, there are so many more things that can happen with the characters we've been introduced to in this book. It seems they all are tied together and the epilogue leads us right into the next in the series. I can't wait!!
July 6, 2026
4 1/2 Stars
This book is formerly known as Exposed.
After photographer, Riley Temple, purchases a tin of old film from her local pawnshop, the owner, her friend, Merle, is attacked and a local homeless man is murdered. Riley is determined to find out who hurt her friends. Riley's distrust of cops due to events in her past make her wary of sharing information with homicide Detective Quinn Burton, but her insight compels her to believe in him. Once Riley develops the pictures, she realizes that what is on them might lead her to more than she can handle alone, so she seeks out Quinn to help her navigate a twisty investigation and their growing mutual attraction.
Exposed is a gritty, entertaining mystery that manages to equally balance the romance and the suspense. The characters are well developed and aided by interesting supporting characters, and I assume some of them will have their own stories in future books. The plot contains a story line that isn't completed by the end of the book, but it seems as though it will continue in the books that are to follow, however there is an HEA for the leads. The pacing does slow in parts of the book when the history of "The Temple House" is described, but it is clear that Hollywood secrets are going to be a major part of the mystery moving forward. Another issue is when some of the characters suddenly find clues off page, but overall, Exposed is a enjoyable romantic suspense with well executed elements.
This book is formerly known as Exposed.
After photographer, Riley Temple, purchases a tin of old film from her local pawnshop, the owner, her friend, Merle, is attacked and a local homeless man is murdered. Riley is determined to find out who hurt her friends. Riley's distrust of cops due to events in her past make her wary of sharing information with homicide Detective Quinn Burton, but her insight compels her to believe in him. Once Riley develops the pictures, she realizes that what is on them might lead her to more than she can handle alone, so she seeks out Quinn to help her navigate a twisty investigation and their growing mutual attraction.
Exposed is a gritty, entertaining mystery that manages to equally balance the romance and the suspense. The characters are well developed and aided by interesting supporting characters, and I assume some of them will have their own stories in future books. The plot contains a story line that isn't completed by the end of the book, but it seems as though it will continue in the books that are to follow, however there is an HEA for the leads. The pacing does slow in parts of the book when the history of "The Temple House" is described, but it is clear that Hollywood secrets are going to be a major part of the mystery moving forward. Another issue is when some of the characters suddenly find clues off page, but overall, Exposed is a enjoyable romantic suspense with well executed elements.
March 31, 2026
Loved, loved, loved this story! I swear a rope came out of the pages and wrapped itself around me to keep me from putting it down – it was THAT good! I love a good mystery, intrigue, look-over-your-shoulder suspense, and trust me, Framed delivered.
Because I don’t want to give anything away, let me tell you what I loved about the story. I loved the characters – Riley Temple has major trust issues, especially with the LAPD. She has her reasons but she stumbles into some really murky things and needs help. Quinn Burton is an LAPD detective with a family background of police force ‘royalty’. The two of them are on totally opposite sides of the fence...or are they? And they both fight the growing attraction between them.
Riley’s Great Aunt Moxie is a hoot – one of the Grande Dames of old Hollywood. To say she is a pistol would be an understatement; loved her! There are friends (who are like family) living in Temple House with them and they are all very distinct, funny, warm, and sometimes scary (!) folks who watch out for and over each other. And they call Quinn DSP. You’ll have to read the story to get that. Hilarious!
Love the growing relationship between Riley and Quinn. Love all the surrounding characters. Love the murder and mayhem and intrigue, then having to look over my shoulder. Trust me, you won’t be able to put this one down...I loved it that much. Can’t wait for the story in the next book...
Because I don’t want to give anything away, let me tell you what I loved about the story. I loved the characters – Riley Temple has major trust issues, especially with the LAPD. She has her reasons but she stumbles into some really murky things and needs help. Quinn Burton is an LAPD detective with a family background of police force ‘royalty’. The two of them are on totally opposite sides of the fence...or are they? And they both fight the growing attraction between them.
Riley’s Great Aunt Moxie is a hoot – one of the Grande Dames of old Hollywood. To say she is a pistol would be an understatement; loved her! There are friends (who are like family) living in Temple House with them and they are all very distinct, funny, warm, and sometimes scary (!) folks who watch out for and over each other. And they call Quinn DSP. You’ll have to read the story to get that. Hilarious!
Love the growing relationship between Riley and Quinn. Love all the surrounding characters. Love the murder and mayhem and intrigue, then having to look over my shoulder. Trust me, you won’t be able to put this one down...I loved it that much. Can’t wait for the story in the next book...
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
This first book in the series is one that will grab your attention from the first page to the last and one that will keep you on the edge of your seats.
Riley Temple is a Hollywood photographer whose life is closely connected to Hollywood icons. One being her aunt Moxie. A character you will love. But Riley’s past experiences also has her distrustful of law enforcement.
When she comes across a disturbing film and shortly after a loved one gets hurt, the police get involved. One of them is Detective Quinn Burton. Quinn comes from a legendary law enforcement family and believes in finding the truth and protecting those in need. What he didn’t expect was to be taken off kilter by the distrustful and enigmatic Riley.
In the midst of the attraction, danger surrounds them. All this while trying to figure the whodunnit. How many are involved in the mystery? Who can be trusted?
The story delivered an engaging plot and the characters, both main and secondary , were perfectly depicted.
In this first book of this very promising series, the author excels and gives the reader one of her best works. Can’t wait to see what comes next.
I was entrusted a copy of this book by Tule Publishing. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
Riley Temple is a Hollywood photographer whose life is closely connected to Hollywood icons. One being her aunt Moxie. A character you will love. But Riley’s past experiences also has her distrustful of law enforcement.
When she comes across a disturbing film and shortly after a loved one gets hurt, the police get involved. One of them is Detective Quinn Burton. Quinn comes from a legendary law enforcement family and believes in finding the truth and protecting those in need. What he didn’t expect was to be taken off kilter by the distrustful and enigmatic Riley.
In the midst of the attraction, danger surrounds them. All this while trying to figure the whodunnit. How many are involved in the mystery? Who can be trusted?
The story delivered an engaging plot and the characters, both main and secondary , were perfectly depicted.
In this first book of this very promising series, the author excels and gives the reader one of her best works. Can’t wait to see what comes next.
I was entrusted a copy of this book by Tule Publishing. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Loved this book from beginning to end. A bit different from Ms. Stewart’s usually writing. I liked that.
Riley Temple is a Hollywood Photographer, and a good one at that. When she gets a box of stuff from a friend. Some photos she comes across are nothing she ever thought possible. Until something happens and she sees that there’s more to these photos. Then she meets Detective Quinn Burton. She isn’t sure what to make of him right away. She has issues with the LAPD, and rightfully so. A tragic thing happened a long time ago so it’s hard for her to trust. He demands the pictures, and she’s having none of it. The more she digs the more her life is at risk. Quinn tells her as much, but she only thinks he’s trying to scare her. But when it hits close to home she thinks twice about it.
Quinn doesn’t know what to do about Riley. There’s times he wants to shake her, and other times he just wants to kiss her. The case if Exposed will be big if the photos are leaked out.
Where do they stand? Only time will tell.
Buy the book to see what happens. So much more to come.
Book is renamed formally named Exposed.
Riley Temple is a Hollywood Photographer, and a good one at that. When she gets a box of stuff from a friend. Some photos she comes across are nothing she ever thought possible. Until something happens and she sees that there’s more to these photos. Then she meets Detective Quinn Burton. She isn’t sure what to make of him right away. She has issues with the LAPD, and rightfully so. A tragic thing happened a long time ago so it’s hard for her to trust. He demands the pictures, and she’s having none of it. The more she digs the more her life is at risk. Quinn tells her as much, but she only thinks he’s trying to scare her. But when it hits close to home she thinks twice about it.
Quinn doesn’t know what to do about Riley. There’s times he wants to shake her, and other times he just wants to kiss her. The case if Exposed will be big if the photos are leaked out.
Where do they stand? Only time will tell.
Buy the book to see what happens. So much more to come.
Book is renamed formally named Exposed.
April 3, 2026
Framed ~Circle of the Red Lily #1 by Anna J. Stewart
Framed, the first book in the Circle of the Red Lily series by Anna J. Stewart, is an excellent mystery that grabs the reader’s attention right from the start.
The story opens with a tense and compelling prologue set in the past, immediately drawing me in and making it impossible not to keep reading. The central mystery revolves around a murder case that the police believed they had solved—until a developed reel of film surfaces, proving the convicted suspect’s innocence. This discovery not only reopens the case but also puts the new owner of the film, and those around them, in serious danger.
The novel is extremely well written, with characters that feel realistic and a storyline full of suspense and intrigue. The pacing keeps you engaged throughout, and the twists make it difficult to put down.
Framed is just the beginning, as the story continues across the rest of the Circle of the Red Lily series. I highly recommend this book to mystery lovers and am looking forward to reading the next instalment.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Framed, the first book in the Circle of the Red Lily series by Anna J. Stewart, is an excellent mystery that grabs the reader’s attention right from the start.
The story opens with a tense and compelling prologue set in the past, immediately drawing me in and making it impossible not to keep reading. The central mystery revolves around a murder case that the police believed they had solved—until a developed reel of film surfaces, proving the convicted suspect’s innocence. This discovery not only reopens the case but also puts the new owner of the film, and those around them, in serious danger.
The novel is extremely well written, with characters that feel realistic and a storyline full of suspense and intrigue. The pacing keeps you engaged throughout, and the twists make it difficult to put down.
Framed is just the beginning, as the story continues across the rest of the Circle of the Red Lily series. I highly recommend this book to mystery lovers and am looking forward to reading the next instalment.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Framed is the first book in the Circle of the Red Lily by Anna J. Stewart. However, I did not read the books in order but read the second book first. It is a great beginning to the terrible horrors that happened because of The Circle of the Red Lily. Photographer Riley Temple leads the charge with developed pictures. LAPD Detective Quinn Burton is right there with her as soon as danger comes from her having those photos. Such a well-written book that is still scary but addictive.
I liked these dedicated characters to finding the truth even when some of it is long past. I also like the fact that Quinn’s father who had been on the past case is loyal to finding the truth and stopping whatever is still happening. There is romance but it blends with suspense and danger, so it does not overwhelm the main crime plot of the book. While there is a Happy end for the two main characters the over arching theme of the crimes is still ongoing. This story ends with the main character of book two becoming involved.
I liked these dedicated characters to finding the truth even when some of it is long past. I also like the fact that Quinn’s father who had been on the past case is loyal to finding the truth and stopping whatever is still happening. There is romance but it blends with suspense and danger, so it does not overwhelm the main crime plot of the book. While there is a Happy end for the two main characters the over arching theme of the crimes is still ongoing. This story ends with the main character of book two becoming involved.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was a great suspenseful book! The mystery spans back into the golden age of movies to the present. Riley, sassy photographer (paparazzi and morr on the side), comes across a canister of film from a friend. Little does she know it was never supposed to see the light of day and would lead her into a terrifying case. Enter Quinn, detective, straight laced, good guy, comes into the picture when Riley's friend is attacked, her other homeless friend killed, and her life is put in danger. There are tons of twists and turns throughout. I couldn't put this book down. There is a little language and a few sex scenes. Those are super easy to skip though. Great read!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
This thriller is more than a little dark and very intense. The subject matter is grisly at times.
Trust does not come easy for Riley with good reason. The truth is elusive as Riley and Detective Quinn Burton race to find the truth all while being in danger. Someone wants secrets to stay buried.
This story is fast paced which makes it easy to read. It was a little spicy for my taste, but the mystery was so good that I wanted to finish it.
Thank you to Tule Publishing for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Trust does not come easy for Riley with good reason. The truth is elusive as Riley and Detective Quinn Burton race to find the truth all while being in danger. Someone wants secrets to stay buried.
This story is fast paced which makes it easy to read. It was a little spicy for my taste, but the mystery was so good that I wanted to finish it.
Thank you to Tule Publishing for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 4, 2026
I absolutely love Riley and how head strong as well as loyal she is, but also knew this could and would put her in danger. Thankfully we not only have her amazing friends and family but also a Detective Quinn aka DSP.
As things slowly start to come to light as to why the attacks are happening the danger becomes more apparent along with how complex and evil everything connected to the red lilies symbol are. I am so excited to be able to read the 3 books one after the other!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
As things slowly start to come to light as to why the attacks are happening the danger becomes more apparent along with how complex and evil everything connected to the red lilies symbol are. I am so excited to be able to read the 3 books one after the other!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 31, 2026
What a thrilling crime novel, plus spicy romance. The dangerous hunt for the reasons why people want to eliminate photographer Riley brings her into the protection of detective Quinn. The mystery turns deadly and serious enough to send chills down your back.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
April 1, 2026
This is my first thriller by Anna and oh gosh where do I even start. Riley opens up more than she ever bargained for when she comes across some old film and develops it. What a tangled web this one turned out to be. It only barely scratched the surface. So much more to come in book 2. I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book provided by booksprout.
Read
March 8, 2026Engaging and exciting romantic suspense. Grisly murder subject. Interesting variety of characters. I did skip over the intimate scenes. Thanks to Booksprout for providing a copy. My review is voluntary. I look forward to reading the rest of the Red Lily series.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I really enjoyed this story. It drew me in right away and kept me guessing. I didn't know what would happen next. I really liked the characters and couldn't wait to see how things ended. I received an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
April 1, 2026
Framed is the first book in Anna J. Stewart’s heart stopping and awesome series, Circle of the Red Lily. This is an awesome story with romance, mystery, suspense and lots of drama. Framed is the first book I’ve read by Ms. Stewart and I plan to read more. I love that the story encompasses so many genres. The book is set in Los Angeles and begins on a chilling note. There is a murder that took place eight years earlier that we are told about. Photographer Riley Temple has a love of developing photos from prior years and has just gotten a new roll. Her grandfather had also been involved in filming and photography. One of his old friends owned a treasure shop where he took in all sorts of items including old cameras, and estate leftovers. Riley visited often and also got to know the homeless man who lived nearby. She develops her latest find and there are pictures chronicling the potential murder of a young woman. She doesn’t know what to do with it because she doesn’t trust the police. Then the shop owner is attacked and the homeless man is killed and she’s lured to the scene.
The detective assigned is Quinn Burton and there’s an instant connection between them that she tries to fight. Riley and her famous great aunt Moxie own the family home, Temple House. There are a group of tenants who are also her best friends that live in apartments there. As Quinn and Riley work together on the case, they discover all sorts of chilling things going on in the city. He moves into her apartment to help protect her and Moxie from the unknown threats. They recognize their feelings and begin a committed relationship. The others who live there are brought into the case and all contribute to trying to solve it and protect each other. It is discovered there have been many disappearances of young women stretching back decades and are associated with a red lily symbol.
This book is so compelling to keep reading to discover more about the red lily circle and who is behind it. I find all the characters genuine and real. They are supportive of each other and work well together. I loved the romance of Riley and Quinn. The inclusion of snippets about old LA history is also fascinating. The book is well written and the author so creative. This is a five star book I am pleased to recommend.
I was fortunate to receive this ARC from Tule Publishing Company in exchange for my honest review.
The detective assigned is Quinn Burton and there’s an instant connection between them that she tries to fight. Riley and her famous great aunt Moxie own the family home, Temple House. There are a group of tenants who are also her best friends that live in apartments there. As Quinn and Riley work together on the case, they discover all sorts of chilling things going on in the city. He moves into her apartment to help protect her and Moxie from the unknown threats. They recognize their feelings and begin a committed relationship. The others who live there are brought into the case and all contribute to trying to solve it and protect each other. It is discovered there have been many disappearances of young women stretching back decades and are associated with a red lily symbol.
This book is so compelling to keep reading to discover more about the red lily circle and who is behind it. I find all the characters genuine and real. They are supportive of each other and work well together. I loved the romance of Riley and Quinn. The inclusion of snippets about old LA history is also fascinating. The book is well written and the author so creative. This is a five star book I am pleased to recommend.
I was fortunate to receive this ARC from Tule Publishing Company in exchange for my honest review.
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews