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Catcher

313 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 17, 2026

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About the author

Crystal Daniels

22 books52 followers
Librarian note:
There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name.
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For a prolific author of this name, see:

Crystal Daniels - Crystal^^Daniels - Fiction, Romance, Suspense, MC Club


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5 stars
305 (62%)
4 stars
124 (25%)
3 stars
48 (9%)
2 stars
10 (2%)
1 star
3 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
Profile Image for Caroline.
614 reviews2 followers
August 26, 2026
These books are always 3-4 star reads! Satisfying and loyal!

Catcher is such a jerk to start and although he has a "shudder" awful back story, my heart just kind of hurt for half the book! I did love the HEA

Man I want a second generation for these books...maybe a little connection between Montana and New Orleans...**sigh** a girl can dream
.
157 reviews2 followers
August 20, 2026
it’s ok - catcher really gets a pass in the book to be a terrible person to Ruby because of his trauma

Good writing, very detailed. Trauma was tragic for sure. Ruby had her own issues as well, but I feel like she was still a good human that didn’t purposely emotionally and verbally abuse others (like Catcher)

Robby absolutely should’ve ate it, imo. Grovel from the grave bro. Like sheesh.

Parents on both sides were quite lovely.

S
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Ok so here are my complaints / observations :

1. Ruby is a pushover & weak FMC

2. Catcher appears to get a pass for being an absolute trash human because of his trauma (to quote Rocket from Guardians of the Galaxy “we all got dead people!”) and it’s just… ewww

3. They don’t really interact much until 55% of the book. A good bit is them running into each other randomly, very short interactions, Catcher being horrible, and then pages and pages of their own life occurring in parallel to each other, etc It’s not really clear to the reader why he thinks about Ruby all the time at all

4. There’s no grovel from Catcher - he just explains his dark traumatic back story, says he had a reason for what he did, and that excuses his behavior. Ruby just says “it’s water under the bridge”

5. I’m not sure where their chemistry is or how it develops because again - they barely spent time together in the book imo

6. Ruby really should’ve made him work harder to get her back - like where is your backbone girl!!

7. This is absolutely a “the baby is a band aid and fixes everything and we are back to insta-love” book

8. The physical threats to their lives allow the characters to avoid any sort of grovel or emotional growth or healing or true forgiveness - it’s just, hey we are back together now etc

9. Catcher is annoyingly heavy handed and bossy and directs Ruby against her will “to protect her” - even knowing how he treated her. She complains a tad bit but of course .. he gets his way. I can see how this would appeal to a variety of readers though. It’s meant to be infuriating yet “protective”.

Overall an easy read.
Profile Image for Hayley.
4 reviews
August 20, 2026
Unfortunately disappointed

Too much AI input feels like. everything is over described pointlessly and overwhelming. Like giving inanimate objects feelings with 3 descriptions “and something that feels like ….. “ stuff that put me off. I usually love this author but this one just felt ran though an AI that ruined it.
Profile Image for Maelle C.
326 reviews4 followers
August 18, 2026
Before anything else, I have to say that Crystal Daniels and Sandy Alvarez are easily among my favorite authors in the MC romance genre. I reread the Kings of Retribution books regularly, so saying I was excited to finally get a new addition to this world would be an understatement.

And Catcher reminded me exactly why I love this series so much.

There is something incredibly familiar and comforting about returning to the Kings. After so many books, this isn't simply an MC series I enjoy anymore. I'm attached to these characters, their families, their friendships, and everything this world represents. Opening a new Kings book genuinely feels a little like coming home. ❤️

But Catcher's story isn't an easy one.

Catcher is such a beautifully complicated character. He's quiet, damaged, angry, and carrying an enormous amount of guilt. He's spent years surviving rather than truly living, convinced that the things in his past have taken away his right to want anything more. There is something heartbreaking about a man who has essentially accepted that happiness simply isn't meant for him.

Then Ruby comes along.

And I absolutely adored her.

Ruby has this wonderful combination of kindness, independence, stubbornness, and strength. She's sunshine without being unrealistically cheerful or naïve. She has her own struggles and pain, but she hasn't allowed those things to take away her capacity to care about other people.

She's exactly the kind of heroine Catcher needed—not because it's her responsibility to fix him, but because she gives him a reason to finally want something for himself.

Their relationship was beautifully handled. I loved the pull between them, Catcher's attempts to keep his distance, and the gradual realization that staying away from Ruby isn't going to protect either of them from what they feel. Watching this man, who has spent so long believing he doesn't deserve a future, slowly begin to imagine one was incredibly emotional.

And when Catcher's protective side comes out? 🔥

That's the Kings of Retribution energy I've missed.

But as much as I loved the romance, one of the strongest elements of this book for me was family.

That's always been at the heart of this series, and Catcher is another perfect example of why the Kings' found-family dynamic works so well. These people don't simply announce that they're family—their actions prove it over and over again. I particularly loved the women and the way they support Ruby. They respect her boundaries and her privacy while still quietly making sure she knows she isn't alone.

There is such a difference between rescuing someone and simply being there when they need you, and I loved seeing that distinction throughout the story.

The contrast between chosen family and biological family also adds another emotional dimension. Not every person connected to you by blood deserves the loyalty you give them, while sometimes the people who choose you are the ones willing to stand beside you when everything falls apart.

And that's something these authors have always done exceptionally well.

Catcher has everything I've come to expect from Crystal Daniels and Sandy Alvarez: emotion, angst, danger, brotherhood, friendship, family, suspense, humor, protective bikers, strong women, and so much heart. But underneath all of that is a story about two people who have survived painful things and are still capable of finding something worth fighting for.

Catcher spent years believing survival was the most he could expect from life.

Ruby gives him a reason to finally live it. ❤️

I waited a long time to return to the Kings of Retribution, and this book was absolutely worth that wait.

Now please don't make me wait too long for another one. 😂
Profile Image for Angels.
2,244 reviews17 followers
September 6, 2026
Catcher, the latest installment in the Kings of Retribution Louisiana series, invites us into the rugged world of biker culture intertwined with raw emotional scars. Penned by authors who clearly understan the allure of complex, gritty romance, this plot explores themes of loss, healing, and the redemptive power of unexpected love. What makes Catcher especially compelling—and why I found it worth reviewing—is its brave dive into deep emotional trauma and sudden lightness brought by a new connection.

The protagonist, Catcher, is a classic figure of broken strength. After losing the people dearest to him, he drifts through life as a hollow shell—detached and guarded. The plot takes a hopeful turn when Catcher meets Ruby, who is described as “sunshine and rainbows,” a refreshing burst of life in his otherwise dim world. Their night together, charged with unspoken emotions, unravels Catcher’s impenetrable exterior, though his initial retreat afterward adds a realistic tension to their burgeoning relationship.

Ruby’s dilemma—whether to reveal a “new surprise” or not—adds an intriguing layer of suspense and authenticity to her character. Her vulnerability becomes palpable when she gets hurt, and it’s in this crisis that Catcher confronts the void in his life anew. This moment is the emotional part of the plot, driving home how precariously thin the line is between loss and love, despair and hope.

The plot has enough suspense and enough softness to make the romance bloom without feeling forced. Still, the chemistry between Catcher and Ruby, coupled with the emotional stakes, lends the story a sincere and heartfelt energy.

Catcher offers a stirring exploration of grief and redemption wrapped in a passionate romance set against a vibrant biker backdrop. It’s a plot for readers who appreciate emotionally driven stories with flawed but fiercely human characters. Fans of motorcycle club romances and heartfelt dramas will find much to admire here, while those hoping for something radically fresh might wish for bolder twists. Personally, I was left reflecting on how sometimes the brightest light appears when we least expect it—and how love can impose itself gently yet irrevocably, even on the most guarded souls.
38 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
August 16, 2026
I absolutely loved returning to the Kings series with Catcher.

Ruby and Catcher’s story is heartfelt, emotional, and easy to get lost in from
the very first page.
Both Ruby and Catcher carry pain that could break anyone, yet
they keep moving forward in their own ways. Ruby faces the world with a smile
and a giving heart, while Catcher shows his loyalty through quiet, meaningful actions.
Their story is a powerful reminder that we never truly know what someone has survived
or why they make the choices they do.
I loved the friendships in this book, especially the way the
women respected Ruby’s privacy while still showing up when they sensed she
needed them most.
Ruby’s strength stood out to me, even when her independence
came close to stubbornness.
The family dynamics, both within the MC and their biological
families, are the kind everyone should have. Pop’s wisdom, in particular,
touched my heart. Her brother made me mad and disappointed.
This book gave me tenderness, heartbreak, hope, strength, and
so many emotional moments.
I read it in one sitting because I could not get enough of Ruby
and Catcher’s journey. I may never get to experience this story for
the first time again, but I know I will return to it again and again.
After being in a book slump, saving this for National Book
Lovers Day made it feel like the perfect read at the perfect time.
Profile Image for Valerie Charron.
327 reviews
September 8, 2026
A little slow at times, but honestly… chef’s kiss. 🤌❤️

Catcher completely stole the show for me. He’s carrying so much darkness and guilt from his past, and I loved watching him slowly realize that maybe he does deserve something more than simply surviving. Then Ruby comes along—sweet, stubborn, and absolutely determined to get under his skin—and somehow becomes the reason he starts looking toward a future instead of constantly running from his past.

I loved their dynamic. Catcher is that perfect mix of tortured, protective, dangerous, and completely gone for his woman. 🥹 And Ruby may be sweet, but she isn’t weak, which made their relationship even better. Watching these two find their way toward each other while everything around them keeps getting more dangerous had me completely invested.

The MC atmosphere, the danger, the family dynamics, and all that protective energy were exactly what I wanted. And Catcher? Yeah… I understood the assignment. 🔥

My only little complaint is that the story felt a bit slow in places, especially considering how much was happening. But even with that, I never stopped wanting to know what would happen next.

A tortured man who thinks he doesn't deserve a future finding one anyway? YES. Give me all of it. ❤️

Definitely a 5-star read for me!
Profile Image for Clara Martinez Turco.
781 reviews1 follower
Review of advance copy received from Author
June 8, 2026
In each book of the Kings of Retribution series, family is front and center. But with Catcher, family is the story. And what a raw, painful, yet beautiful story it is.

After all these years, there is a sense of familiarity in the Kings' books and each of their characters. They aren't just family to each other; they also embrace readers into their world. Leave it to Sandy Alvarez and Crystal Daniels to write a story that brought me to tears. One that, above all, feels like coming home.

Catcher is lethal and quietly full of rage. Nothing passes through him. He is not afraid because he is his own enemy. He gets to live a life he doesn't want to live. There is so much pain behind the anger. Then there is Ruby, who is pure sunshine in the darkest of days. Stubborn as they come, she doesn't give up on those she cares about.

These two are meant to happen. When Catcher and Ruby's lives finally collide, it creates an explosion of cosmic proportions. No amount of avoidance can stop destiny.

Theirs is a story that hurts. A direct punch to the system that kept me holding my breath. Along with the tears came the smile and that feeling of happiness that doesn't leave when the heart is mended and you know you have found a story that will forever change you.
130 reviews
August 29, 2026
Book 9 of this series didn't disappoint. We follow Catcher/Garrett as he navigates through life barely holding on by a thread after tragedy struck his life years earlier. The MC club has taken him in knowing eventually with them as his friends maybe he can find a way to feel like living again. Then we have Ruby a local school teacher who is friends with some of the MC members wives. Catcher tries not to notice her but he is drawn to her but will never admit it. She too likes Catcher but is just to shy to act on it. But then a drunken night leads to more than he wants to admit and it leaves Ruby upset with his treatment the next day. As much as she steers clear of him they seem to always be thrown together. However trouble finds its way to Ruby through her brother and the wrong crowd he has gotten his life tangled up with and brought to her doorstep. When the club has to step in to keep Ruby safe after she is threatened at their bar Catcher has been put in charge of her safety. Will Catcher be able to keep Ruby safe when she is attacked by someone looking for her brother? Will these two give into their feelings and will outside forces threaten their lives. Follow along if you want to find out if Ruby and Catcher can figure things out and if they can catch a break. Great book.
Profile Image for Clara Atkinson.
1,259 reviews57 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
August 16, 2026
They've done it again these two dynamic authors and sisters know how to draw you into the lives of their characters. You can't help but get immersed in the stories that they bring to life on the pages of their books. And they did it again with Catcher. This incredible storyline is the latest release in the Kings of Retribution MC Louisiana Chapter and follows Garrett Carver aka Catcher and Ruby Starling.

Garrett, Garrett, Garrett be still my heart.... what a hauntingly, beautiful and heartbreakingly broken man. He has lived through so much h*!! yet he continues to punish himself for something he had no control over.

There is an undeniable pull between them but he continues to push her away because he's haunted by tragedies, demons and heartbreak. That is until until her life is threatened and his alpha protective side comes roaring to the surface. Now all bets are off as he and the whole MC family once again prove they will do whatever it takes for one of their own.

This book has it all drama, angst action, suspense, danger, brotherhood, friendship, family, passion, humor, love and so much more!!!!!

5🔥 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Profile Image for Melissa Machado.
538 reviews8 followers
August 17, 2026
The Kings of Retribution MC Series Louisianna Chapter is back with book seven, Catcher. It could be read as standalone but for maximum enjoyment it's best to start at the beginning of the series. This journey focuses on Catcher and Ruby.

Catcher has a pretty painful background and I think he may be the most stoic. He was often broody and was a man of few words. I could not get past what a complete jerk he was though. I don't care what demons he had chasing him, that doesn't give him a pass to treat others like garbage.

Ruby is independent, hard working, friendly, and an all around good person. I felt she let was too nice and had a knack for letting people treat her poorly, specifically men it seemed like. I also felt she was too forgiving.

This was a quick and easy read. It was entertaining and had a good mix of drama, angst, action, and emotional moments. There needed to be more groveling though. IYKYK.
Profile Image for Darcy.
15k reviews551 followers
August 18, 2026
I felt for Catcher in this one, even as he did Ruby dirty at the start. I honestly don't think he did it intentionally or even knew what he was doing when she showed up. It doesn't excuse his behavior, just makes it easier to understand his reaction.

I also felt for Ruby and all she was going through with her brother. I wished she had talked to someone else, it might have saved some grief. But when things heated up, I was glad that Catcher and the MC were there to have her back. This seemed to snap Catcher into realizing what he had the potential to loose and make him admit his feelings for Ruby and it was ok for him to have those feelings, he was betraying those he loved in the past.

Things got very crazy towards the end, so glad that the MC was there and they let the "bad guys" know where they stood and were able to take care of business. It was nice to see Catcher and Ruby happy at the end, they deserved it.
123 reviews2 followers
Review of advance copy
August 8, 2026
Welcome back to the Kings of Retribution MC in NOLA. We ride back into NOLA and finally get Catcher’s story. The raw emotion he immulates throughout the book is heart-wrenching but also understandable with his past. Ruby is a friend of the ol’ ladies who’s harbored a crush for a long time, knowing that she’ll never be on Catcher’s radar… until she is. Once all hell breaks loose and Ruby is cast aside like she never mattered, she retreats into herself. Between her issues with Catcher and the looming danger in her personal life is enough to set your teeth on edge. Will Catcher step up and make things right, or will he be another person who has let her down? This is another 5-star book by Crystal and Sandy, and if you haven’t read Kings of Retribution, you are missing out on a time of your life. The wild ride continues… grab your copy today!
Profile Image for Louise  O.
884 reviews8 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
August 16, 2026
Catcher is book 7 in the Kings of Retribution Louisiana series, a series I have read and loved from the beginning. Crystal and Sandy know how to write a MC book!

Catcher has demons & not just little ones, they stay with him every moment of the day & hit hard at night. Ruby is friends with the club, she has had a crush on Catcher for a while, she know nothing can come of it, and it seems everyone knows about it. When everything comes to a head 1 night, she is left feeling used and decided to throw herself into her work avoiding her friends and the club.

When Ruby is in danger Catcher steps up to protect her. Will he let himself be happy or will his demons pull him back into hell?

I personally enjoyed this story, it was heart breaking, it pulled me in and i didn't want to put it down.

Overall 4/5
Profile Image for Leslee.
2,705 reviews76 followers
August 17, 2026
This sister duo is a match made in heaven, no doubt; absolute queens gifting us these stories that we cannot help but take into our hearts and souls. Catcher is the perfect example of a man who desperately needs a second chance. Unfortunately, he is trapped in a cycle of grief, guilt, and pain. Ruby is a magnet, he can't keep himself from noticing but he shoves it down every time. I honestly can't even bring myself to describe any more, it truly should be experienced first hand. Their story is deeply emotional, keeping me glued to the pages. I needed their HEA like I needed air to breathe, they so desperately deserved it. I also have to mention the descriptions of New Orleans throughout, it takes me back to every time I have visited this wonderful city. Heartbreakingly beautiful, every single word!
505 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
August 5, 2026
Oh my word! There is a reason these ladies are two of my favorites, they never write a book that doesn’t reach out and grab you and hang on until the end. Oh, and make you wish for more! Love this story. These two have been intriguing me in prior books and I’m so glad they finally got their story. Definitely not an easy story for either of them. Pretty sure I wanted to smack Catcher upside the head a few times, but when we get to see his past…everything falls into place. Fantastic addition to an already fabulous series. Waiting patiently…well sort of patiently…for the next Louisiana story…maybe a whole new group of guys…wishful thinking. Thanks for the wonderful read ladies, you never disappoint!
Profile Image for Lynne Garlick.
2,677 reviews27 followers
August 18, 2026
Sweet baby Jesus!!

It’s funny because earlier this year I decided to re-read the Kind Of Retribution MC. Montana and the Louisiana Chapters and when I got to the end of the Louisiana Chapter, I cheekily asked if we would be getting Catcher’s story….and they came back with YES! And my heart just burst! I fucking love these guys so damn much and I one clicked that pre-order as soon as it dropped.
I was not disappointed! I have lost my heart and soul in this book! Catcher’s back story, I was not expecting and it got me right in the feels.
Ruby is like sunshine to Catcher’s dark and when danger comes he will burn the world to the ground to ensure that sunshine doesn’t dim!
Oh my days!!! What a read!!
Profile Image for Brittany St Thomas.
612 reviews16 followers
Review of advance copy
August 7, 2026
It's so exciting coming back to the world of the Kings. Catchers past hardens him, rightfully so, and keeps him from experiencing what life has to offer. Ruby's wanted Catcher for a while, but feels he doesn't notice her. But what she, and every one else doesn't know, is why he is the way he is. Things between them change when Ruby's brother comes back into her life and it gives Catcher the kick in the pants he needs to move forward with his life.


There was a lot that was kind of predictable. I still very much enjoyed it, but it's just one of those things you see coming. There were also parts that I don't understand why they were mentioned as it wasn't brought up again.
633 reviews1 follower
Review of advance copy received from Author
August 11, 2026
We are back in New Orleans with the Kings of Retribution. This is Catcher and Ruby’s story. Catcher has a devastating past which has led him keep to himself and not expose his personal trials and tribulations. When he and Ruby’s worlds collide, he must come to face his past so that he can preserve his future. This is an action packed story about family, redemption, and forgiving oneself for things that were beyond your own control. Add in the Kings family, who always protect their own, you have a story that once you start, you will not want to put it down until you get to the end. Looking forward to whatever comes next!
Profile Image for Angela.
3,692 reviews33 followers
September 16, 2026
A fantastic story and series

A complex and suspenseful story that will hook you from beginning to end. Catcher had been drowning from the devastation of his past for years, and nothing seems to be able to break through it. The one that has came closest is his club and brothers, until now. Ruby has been hiding secrets from her parents, friends, and everyone else. She's slowly drowning, through no fault of her own, but refuses to add the stress to anyone else's lives. One night seems to change everything, or does it? It's not a story or series to be missed.
I would definitely recommend this book, series, and authors.
Profile Image for Read All About It.
2,194 reviews23 followers
September 6, 2026

After the loss he went though Catcher doesn't want a relationship but he can't look away from “Ruby Starling,”

The kind of quiet that settles into your bones. I breathe it in, trying to absorb some of the silence, hoping to carry it with me long after we leave it behind.

Ruby is fighting her own battles. This sweet independent woman is mixed up in some danger not of her own making.
This is a emotional story that will make you cry and shout at the injustice. This team always brings a story that will keep you thinking for days to come.
577 reviews3 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
August 5, 2026
At the heart of this series is family and this book was absolutely no different. It was a beautiful but heartbreaking story about family and second chances.
Ruby and Catchers story was so amazing. They had an insane amount of chemistry from the very start. I loved watching them both grow individually and as a couple. I can't wait to see what is next!
These authors are incredible and draw you in from the very first page.
5+ stars
Profile Image for Debbie Earley.
3,066 reviews17 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
August 6, 2026
Oh Catcher, there were quite a few times I wanted to throttle this man. I loved seeing Ruby and Catcher grow and change and the bit of banter was great. Being back in the world of the Kings and seeing all the changes within the family was great. This is a must read for fans of these ladies and this series. This book will tear at your heartstrings, you laugh, then want to cry, but it is so worth it.
Profile Image for Christy Hughes.
17 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
August 12, 2026
LOVE this love story!! Awesome strong, sexy characters and a stand-alone read. Great secondary characters and if you are fans of the “Kings of Retribution MC” you will love this book even more. If you haven’t been introduced to the “Kings” – jump in with “Catcher & Ruby” right now!! In addition to being a fabulous love story it has GREAT surprises through-out that really enhance the story and keep you guessing.
332 reviews2 followers
August 18, 2026
Loved Ruby and Catcher!!!!

This is a must read! I couldn't put it down. It has Catcher who has a background of pain. Then there is Ruby, who is beautiful and part of the girls group in the Kings. Both her and Catcher like each other but have issues. His is his past and hers is current involving her brother. There is alot of excitement, love and hate issues but these two authors always write great stories. I'd give 10 stars if I could.
Profile Image for Sarah.
496 reviews2 followers
August 18, 2026
Catcher

This was a super quick read for me. I was not able to put it down. While there was quite a bit of repetitiveness in the writing it was an easy read to turn your brain off and have the conflict/action of a motor cycle club without the other woman drama.
Catcher is our wounded/grieving MMC who keeps being drawn to Ruby (FMC). I enjoy their dynamic of light and dark.

Open Door Romance
Profile Image for Kurtins R.
1,273 reviews10 followers
August 18, 2026
Wow, this story was awesome. It was so good to be back with the Kings of Retribution, and Catcher and Ruby's story was a doozy!
Catcher's back story was so tragic and he had lost so much, what a hauntingly, heartbroken man. He has lived through so much yet he continues to punish himself for something that was never his to control.
Ruby the girl who feels like she is always overlooked.
Loved these 2 together.
Profile Image for Jas's booktok .
406 reviews5 followers
August 19, 2026
Review...
When I say I have read everybook written by Sandy and Crystal. I have read every book, loved all the books and obsessed over waiting for this book. It was amazing and wow I absolutely loved it. Catcher (garrett) has been through so much and I loved Ruby from the very start. Their story was so well deserved and if I could recommend any books I definitely recommend books written by these authors. Amazing 👏 🤩
58 reviews
August 20, 2026
Really wish she did a description of him because I forgot what he looked like. He was a jerk to her and I felt bad for her. Ruby is a kindergarten teacher trying to keep her head above water but her brother caused her problems. Catcher lost his family and spent time in prison before moving to NOLANto join the MC club. Surprise pregnancy after he seemingly sleepwalks sex with her then rejects her.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Michelle.
881 reviews4 followers
August 25, 2026
Catcher was a great addition to the Kings of Retribution MC Louisiana Chapter. Catcher is quite the grump but we find out what an emotional trauma he went through before he joined the MC. Ruby has had her own issues but she always has a smile for everyone and would do anything for anyone else. One drunken night changes everything for them. Their story has me captivated from the very beginning. This was a great read and can’t wait to see what’s to come next.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews