What do you think?
Rate this book
Kane's Reckoning
Can their love survive a father’s ambition to protect his empire?
Kane Miller, heir to PC Miller Corporation, has no interest in working for his billionaire family's business. Driven by his creative passion, he aims to leave a mark on the world through architecture—the one aspect of his life his father can’t control.
Annika Bauer must move forward in her life, yet she finds it hard to contain all the darkness smothering her. Desperate for a change, she relocates across the country for a fresh start, leaving her nightmare behind.
When she agrees to work as a nanny for the Miller family, she’s immediately struck by the chemistry she has with Kane. The more time they spend together, the stronger their attraction becomes. Their forbidden love is a complication his father won’t accept. When Annika’s past intersects with Kane’s future, they find themselves caught in a conflict that could cost them everything.
Kane Miller, heir to PC Miller Corporation, has no interest in working for his billionaire family's business. Driven by his creative passion, he aims to leave a mark on the world through architecture—the one aspect of his life his father can’t control.
Annika Bauer must move forward in her life, yet she finds it hard to contain all the darkness smothering her. Desperate for a change, she relocates across the country for a fresh start, leaving her nightmare behind.
When she agrees to work as a nanny for the Miller family, she’s immediately struck by the chemistry she has with Kane. The more time they spend together, the stronger their attraction becomes. Their forbidden love is a complication his father won’t accept. When Annika’s past intersects with Kane’s future, they find themselves caught in a conflict that could cost them everything.
255 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 11, 2026
About the author
Bailey Thomas
7 books101 followersAmazon Top Ten author Bailey Thomas writes romantic suspense, contemporary, and adventure romance, and she loves a well-earned happily-ever-after.
As an only child, her active imagination and adventurous spirit always kept her engaged. Now, she channels her creativity into romantic adventures. A sucker for heroes and heroines with big hearts, baggage, and the fight to overcome life’s challenges while earning their HEA.
She lives in the beautiful but hot Southwest. When she’s not working on her next deadline behind a computer, she’s reading, traveling, or watching sports.
Life is too short, so Bailey lives by her motto of seeking adventures that bring her joy.
She loves hearing from readers. For more details about her books, appearances, and adventures, visit her website at BaileyThomasAuthor.com.
As an only child, her active imagination and adventurous spirit always kept her engaged. Now, she channels her creativity into romantic adventures. A sucker for heroes and heroines with big hearts, baggage, and the fight to overcome life’s challenges while earning their HEA.
She lives in the beautiful but hot Southwest. When she’s not working on her next deadline behind a computer, she’s reading, traveling, or watching sports.
Life is too short, so Bailey lives by her motto of seeking adventures that bring her joy.
She loves hearing from readers. For more details about her books, appearances, and adventures, visit her website at BaileyThomasAuthor.com.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
Review of advance copy
This was my first introduction to Bailey Thomas, and I am officially a fan of her storytelling. Kane’s Reckoning is far more than a standard romance; it is a beautifully layered exploration of pressure, legacy, and the heavy weight of the past.
From the very beginning, I was completely engaged by the slow-burn energy and the authentic emotional stakes.
The plot follows two characters caught in circumstances beyond their control. Kane is a passionate architect trapped between his own ambitions and his father’s cutthroat expectations. His father is a master of manipulation, attempting to force Kane into the family business through an arranged political marriage.
Meanwhile, Annika is a survivor who moved to New York for a fresh start. She is rebuilding herself after a difficult past, and that journey toward healing influences every choice she makes.
Their lives intersect when Annika is hired as the nanny for Kane’s niece, and watching them form a temporary family unit—especially during their travels to the Midwest—creates a compelling atmosphere that makes it impossible not to root for them.
The connection between Kane and Annika is immediate but far from simple. Because she is the nanny and he is the employer’s brother, the boundaries are clear and the stakes are high.
This creates a constant push and pull between desire and duty, ensuring their relationship feels earned rather than rushed.
Bailey Thomas reveals pieces of the past with perfect timing, adding layers of depth without ever sacrificing the story's momentum. It is a narrative that truly highlights the immense courage required to start over when life throws you a curveball.
The relationship between the FMC and MMC is where the writing really shines. Watching them navigate their connection is a masterclass in tension, focusing on the difficult journey of breaking free from external expectations to finally find where you truly belong.
The writing is polished, the tension is top-tier, and the emotional payoff is incredibly satisfying.
I received this book as an Advance Reader Copy (ARC), and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a romance with genuine substance.
From the very beginning, I was completely engaged by the slow-burn energy and the authentic emotional stakes.
The plot follows two characters caught in circumstances beyond their control. Kane is a passionate architect trapped between his own ambitions and his father’s cutthroat expectations. His father is a master of manipulation, attempting to force Kane into the family business through an arranged political marriage.
Meanwhile, Annika is a survivor who moved to New York for a fresh start. She is rebuilding herself after a difficult past, and that journey toward healing influences every choice she makes.
Their lives intersect when Annika is hired as the nanny for Kane’s niece, and watching them form a temporary family unit—especially during their travels to the Midwest—creates a compelling atmosphere that makes it impossible not to root for them.
The connection between Kane and Annika is immediate but far from simple. Because she is the nanny and he is the employer’s brother, the boundaries are clear and the stakes are high.
This creates a constant push and pull between desire and duty, ensuring their relationship feels earned rather than rushed.
Bailey Thomas reveals pieces of the past with perfect timing, adding layers of depth without ever sacrificing the story's momentum. It is a narrative that truly highlights the immense courage required to start over when life throws you a curveball.
The relationship between the FMC and MMC is where the writing really shines. Watching them navigate their connection is a masterclass in tension, focusing on the difficult journey of breaking free from external expectations to finally find where you truly belong.
The writing is polished, the tension is top-tier, and the emotional payoff is incredibly satisfying.
I received this book as an Advance Reader Copy (ARC), and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a romance with genuine substance.
April 27, 2026
There’s something about Bailey Thomas’s writing that just pulls you in quietly… and then suddenly you’re completely invested.
Kane’s Reckoning isn’t just a romance, it’s a story about pressure, expectations, and the weight of the past. Kane is caught between the life he’s expected to live and the one he actually wants, while Annika is trying to move forward from a past that hasn’t fully let her go. Watching those two worlds collide felt layered, emotional, and incredibly real.
What stood out the most for me was the connection between Kane and Annika. It’s immediate, but not simple. There’s tension, there are boundaries, and there’s a constant push and pull between what they want and what they should do. It made their relationship feel authentic instead of rushed.
I also really appreciated how the story unfolded. Pieces of the past are revealed in a way that adds depth without slowing the pace, and the emotional weight builds naturally as everything starts to connect.
If you enjoy:
✨ forbidden romance
✨ complex family dynamics
✨ emotional, character-driven stories
✨ a touch of suspense woven through
This one is absolutely worth picking up.
Bailey Thomas has a way of writing characters that feel lived-in and real, and this story stayed with me even after I finished. She is an auto read for me !
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Kane’s Reckoning isn’t just a romance, it’s a story about pressure, expectations, and the weight of the past. Kane is caught between the life he’s expected to live and the one he actually wants, while Annika is trying to move forward from a past that hasn’t fully let her go. Watching those two worlds collide felt layered, emotional, and incredibly real.
What stood out the most for me was the connection between Kane and Annika. It’s immediate, but not simple. There’s tension, there are boundaries, and there’s a constant push and pull between what they want and what they should do. It made their relationship feel authentic instead of rushed.
I also really appreciated how the story unfolded. Pieces of the past are revealed in a way that adds depth without slowing the pace, and the emotional weight builds naturally as everything starts to connect.
If you enjoy:
✨ forbidden romance
✨ complex family dynamics
✨ emotional, character-driven stories
✨ a touch of suspense woven through
This one is absolutely worth picking up.
Bailey Thomas has a way of writing characters that feel lived-in and real, and this story stayed with me even after I finished. She is an auto read for me !
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Review of advance copy received from Author
📚 Title + Author: Kanes Reckoning by Bailey Thomas (Series)
⭐ Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐️
✔️TBR or Recommendation: ARC Read
💭 My Thoughts:
The fact that I’ve been blessed by yet another amazing author to read their book before everyone else is mind blowing to me so thank you @author_baileythomas for trusting me with such an important thing to you and your family. On to the review now this book was a slow burn for me but had an emotionally layered romance underneath this book gives you tropes you become desperate for forbidden love family pressures and starting over when life throws you a curve ball. The FMCs storyline hit hard rebuilding herself from a dark place and it follows her in every choice she makes the relationship between the FMC & MMC is where this book really shined for me there’s a constant underlining tension between them every moment between them builds that made it feel earned
Reading time took me about 2 days and can instantly see myself wanting to read the other books in this series it can be read as a stand alone but for sure should be read BEFORE the others for best effect I promise !
🧎🏻♂️MMC Energy Rating:
Kane Miller is not your normal heir to a family pretty boy you might think he wants so much more for himself he’s controlled on the surface but under that ? A need for freedom that makes him sooo compelling to read about
@author_baileythomas #ArcRead #BookFour #BookReview #KanesReckoning
⭐ Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐️
✔️TBR or Recommendation: ARC Read
💭 My Thoughts:
The fact that I’ve been blessed by yet another amazing author to read their book before everyone else is mind blowing to me so thank you @author_baileythomas for trusting me with such an important thing to you and your family. On to the review now this book was a slow burn for me but had an emotionally layered romance underneath this book gives you tropes you become desperate for forbidden love family pressures and starting over when life throws you a curve ball. The FMCs storyline hit hard rebuilding herself from a dark place and it follows her in every choice she makes the relationship between the FMC & MMC is where this book really shined for me there’s a constant underlining tension between them every moment between them builds that made it feel earned
Reading time took me about 2 days and can instantly see myself wanting to read the other books in this series it can be read as a stand alone but for sure should be read BEFORE the others for best effect I promise !
🧎🏻♂️MMC Energy Rating:
Kane Miller is not your normal heir to a family pretty boy you might think he wants so much more for himself he’s controlled on the surface but under that ? A need for freedom that makes him sooo compelling to read about
@author_baileythomas #ArcRead #BookFour #BookReview #KanesReckoning
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 18, 2026
This is my second book by Bailey Thomas, but my first in this series, and I had such a good time with it. I read this as a standalone with no issues, but now I definitely want to go back and read the other books because I ended up really loving these characters. ✨
I stayed up way later than I should have, trying to finish this one, which says a lot, considering work and single-mom responsibilities never stop. 😅 But I just needed to know how everything would play out.
What I loved most was how much depth Annika had. She wasn’t just the love interest—she was carrying pain, trying to rebuild her life, and figuring things out for herself, which made her story hit even harder. Her chemistry with Kane felt so natural, and every scene between them had so much tension and emotion without feeling forced.
The forbidden aspect of their relationship added the perfect amount of drama, and the family dynamics kept me fully invested. Kane’s father especially had me stressed because I genuinely didn’t know how things were going to work out. Definitely one of those books that keeps you saying “just one more chapter” until suddenly it’s way past bedtime. 😂📚
Special thanks to Bailey for the ARC in exchange for an honest review
I stayed up way later than I should have, trying to finish this one, which says a lot, considering work and single-mom responsibilities never stop. 😅 But I just needed to know how everything would play out.
What I loved most was how much depth Annika had. She wasn’t just the love interest—she was carrying pain, trying to rebuild her life, and figuring things out for herself, which made her story hit even harder. Her chemistry with Kane felt so natural, and every scene between them had so much tension and emotion without feeling forced.
The forbidden aspect of their relationship added the perfect amount of drama, and the family dynamics kept me fully invested. Kane’s father especially had me stressed because I genuinely didn’t know how things were going to work out. Definitely one of those books that keeps you saying “just one more chapter” until suddenly it’s way past bedtime. 😂📚
Special thanks to Bailey for the ARC in exchange for an honest review
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received this book from the author as an Advance Reader Copy(ARC). Also, this is the first book I have read by this author. Once I got started it was an easy read and I became engaged with the characters and the storyline. As in life, interesting how the 2 main characters' lives intersect. Kane is passionate about designing buildings but comes from a family which has built a reputation and wealth, over a couple of generations. His father is cunning and manipulative and wants Kane to come into the family business-mining. Now the father is arranging Kane's marriage to create a political connection and advance the family business. Kane is opposed to it.
Annika is trying to escape her own demons and moves to New York from California for a fresh start. She interviews for a job as a nanny and is hired. her father is Kane's brother and he runs the company office in London. There is some unrest there and the father is sending Leah to stay with Kane for a period of time and enlists a nanny agency to find a nanny for Leah. The three of them (Kane, Annika, and Leah) go to visit Kane's friend , Trent in the MidWest. Annika's past is chasing her and Kane must deal with the subterfuge and manipulation of his father. How does it get resolved?? Read and find out.
Annika is trying to escape her own demons and moves to New York from California for a fresh start. She interviews for a job as a nanny and is hired. her father is Kane's brother and he runs the company office in London. There is some unrest there and the father is sending Leah to stay with Kane for a period of time and enlists a nanny agency to find a nanny for Leah. The three of them (Kane, Annika, and Leah) go to visit Kane's friend , Trent in the MidWest. Annika's past is chasing her and Kane must deal with the subterfuge and manipulation of his father. How does it get resolved?? Read and find out.
Review of advance copy received from Author
That single line perfectly captures the intensity and emotional pull of Kane’s Reckoning by Bailey Thomas. From the very beginning, this story establishes itself as more than just a romance. It’s a layered exploration of loyalty, consequences, and the lingering impact of the past. Kane and Annika are both carrying their own burdens, and watching them navigate personal obstacles, complicated family dynamics, and an undeniable attraction makes for a deeply engaging read. Their connection is immediate, but far from simple, especially given the very real boundaries between them. After all, the nanny isn’t supposed to fall for the uncle. What makes their story so compelling is the tension between what they want and what they believe they should do. As their worlds collide, the stakes grow higher, and it becomes impossible not to root for them to push past the barriers in their way. Their journey feels both emotional and authentic, making every step toward each other that much more satisfying.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received an advanced reader copy through BookFunnel.
The storyline itself was really engaging and pulls you in, especially with the mix of forced engagement, the nanny dynamic, and the added tension from her past. I got invested pretty quickly.
I liked how their connection developed through her role caring for his niece, it added a softer side to the story and made their relationship feel more genuine rather than just based on attraction.
The story does open by hinting at the outcome, which personally took away some of the suspense for me since I tend to prefer not knowing where things are headed. That’s just my preference, though. It’s also written in third person, which can be a little harder for me to get into, but I know a lot of readers enjoy that style.
There’s a good mix of emotion, tension, and character growth throughout, especially with everything the female lead has been through. It added more weight to the story than I was expecting going in.
Overall, it was well written, a cute and fast read, and easy to get through in one sitting. ❤️
The storyline itself was really engaging and pulls you in, especially with the mix of forced engagement, the nanny dynamic, and the added tension from her past. I got invested pretty quickly.
I liked how their connection developed through her role caring for his niece, it added a softer side to the story and made their relationship feel more genuine rather than just based on attraction.
The story does open by hinting at the outcome, which personally took away some of the suspense for me since I tend to prefer not knowing where things are headed. That’s just my preference, though. It’s also written in third person, which can be a little harder for me to get into, but I know a lot of readers enjoy that style.
There’s a good mix of emotion, tension, and character growth throughout, especially with everything the female lead has been through. It added more weight to the story than I was expecting going in.
Overall, it was well written, a cute and fast read, and easy to get through in one sitting. ❤️
Review of advance copy received from Author
Kane's Reckoning is the 4th book in the Mill Creek Mystique series by Bailey Thomas. It was written as a standalone and can be read out of order. Bailey did a great job in not making me feel like I've missed out on anything major from the previous books as I have not yet read them myself, but I do now plan on adding them to my TBR list.
Kane's Reckoning is a fast paced romance filled with forbidden love and intense emotion. Kane and Annikas connection is strong, but they both struggle with their own burdens. Between Kane's family drama as he tries to lay down his own path away from the family legacy and business, and Annika's traumatic past coming back to haunt her, this book is filled with intense emotions and curveballs that keeps you pulled in and on your toes until the end.
Bailey writes this book as a re-telling story which I thought was well done. It is a quick and easy read, maybe 2-3 days. There's also a little added spice too, which I always appreciate.
ARC read, curtesy of Bailey Thomas through Book Funnel. Keep your eyes open for this book to drop May 11th/2026!
Kane's Reckoning is a fast paced romance filled with forbidden love and intense emotion. Kane and Annikas connection is strong, but they both struggle with their own burdens. Between Kane's family drama as he tries to lay down his own path away from the family legacy and business, and Annika's traumatic past coming back to haunt her, this book is filled with intense emotions and curveballs that keeps you pulled in and on your toes until the end.
Bailey writes this book as a re-telling story which I thought was well done. It is a quick and easy read, maybe 2-3 days. There's also a little added spice too, which I always appreciate.
ARC read, curtesy of Bailey Thomas through Book Funnel. Keep your eyes open for this book to drop May 11th/2026!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 11, 2026
Kane's Reckoning is part of a series, but can be read as a standalone. I loved how all of the characters integrate throughout the story, and it makes you want to read their own novels that much more!
Once this story really got rolling there were so many elements of suspense, romance and honestly horrible family dynamics. I think that is what sucked me in the most....I couldn't even believe the way the MMC's father and family was running. It was an easy read that you didn't want to put down.
There wasn't too much spice, but the romance was running wild. I was rooting for the characters to have their HEA throughout. There was a lot of depth and emotion, at times this was heavy with mental health aspects and PTSD.
I think it was a great introduction to Bailey Thomas for me, and I will be adding more of her work to my TBR!!
✨ Forbidden Romance
✨ Complex Family Dynamics
✨ Emotional Romance
✨ Workplace Romance
✨ Billionaire Romance
*I received this book from the author as an Advance Reader Copy(ARC).*
Once this story really got rolling there were so many elements of suspense, romance and honestly horrible family dynamics. I think that is what sucked me in the most....I couldn't even believe the way the MMC's father and family was running. It was an easy read that you didn't want to put down.
There wasn't too much spice, but the romance was running wild. I was rooting for the characters to have their HEA throughout. There was a lot of depth and emotion, at times this was heavy with mental health aspects and PTSD.
I think it was a great introduction to Bailey Thomas for me, and I will be adding more of her work to my TBR!!
✨ Forbidden Romance
✨ Complex Family Dynamics
✨ Emotional Romance
✨ Workplace Romance
✨ Billionaire Romance
*I received this book from the author as an Advance Reader Copy(ARC).*
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Kane's Reckoning - Mill Creek Mystique Book 4 by the very talented author Bailey Thomas.
Rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
POV: you just found a billionaire forbidden romance that hurts so good 😭
✨ Kanes the heir who wants out
✨ Annika’s running from a past she can’t escape
✨ A short term job as a nanny will help finance her career goals
ssuddenly it’s tension, stolen looks, and way too much chemistry
Kane doesn’t want his father’s empire. Annika just wants a fresh start.
But working as his family’s nanny, that’s where everything goes wrong (or right 👀).
Their love = forbidden
Her past = about to ruin EVERYTHING
And when secrets collide with power. It’s giving heartbreak, sacrifice, and “they might not survive this” energy 💔
If you love:
🔥 slow burn tension
🔥 rich boy x broken girl
🔥 high-stakes drama
🔥Tension and suspense
…this one’s about to wreck you in the very best way ❤️
Rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
POV: you just found a billionaire forbidden romance that hurts so good 😭
✨ Kanes the heir who wants out
✨ Annika’s running from a past she can’t escape
✨ A short term job as a nanny will help finance her career goals
ssuddenly it’s tension, stolen looks, and way too much chemistry
Kane doesn’t want his father’s empire. Annika just wants a fresh start.
But working as his family’s nanny, that’s where everything goes wrong (or right 👀).
Their love = forbidden
Her past = about to ruin EVERYTHING
And when secrets collide with power. It’s giving heartbreak, sacrifice, and “they might not survive this” energy 💔
If you love:
🔥 slow burn tension
🔥 rich boy x broken girl
🔥 high-stakes drama
🔥Tension and suspense
…this one’s about to wreck you in the very best way ❤️
Review of advance copy received from Author
This one packs a punch. Although this is completely a standalone I was a little lost at the start having not read the previous books. But by the end of chapter one I understood where the author was going. Bailey Thomas (author) does an amazing job telling a re-telling of her story. Not an easy feat and she handles it masterfully. Our MFC sits down with her girlfriends and retells the story of how she and her MMC meet and the trials that they are faced with as a couple. They both have difficult backstories and are living their best lives in spite of them or at least are getting there. And then life throws new MAJOR curve balls at them.
This is a quick, easy, suspenseful, spicy read. I am looking forward to going back and reading the first three books as well as watching for any more to come.
This is a quick, easy, suspenseful, spicy read. I am looking forward to going back and reading the first three books as well as watching for any more to come.
Review of advance copy received from Author
If you like romance with emotional weight, strong character development, and a bit of drama tied to family power and expectations, this one’s definitely worth the read. I finished it wishing there was more and that’s always a good sign.
What really surprised me, though, was how much depth Annika’s character had. She’s not just a love interest she’s carrying real pain and trying to rebuild her life, and that made her story hit harder. The chemistry between her and Kane feels natural, not forced, and you can feel the connection every time they’re together.
The “forbidden” aspect of their relationship adds just the right amount of tension without being overdone, and the family dynamics (especially Kane’s father) kept me turning pages. There were moments where I genuinely didn’t know how things would play out.
What really surprised me, though, was how much depth Annika’s character had. She’s not just a love interest she’s carrying real pain and trying to rebuild her life, and that made her story hit harder. The chemistry between her and Kane feels natural, not forced, and you can feel the connection every time they’re together.
The “forbidden” aspect of their relationship adds just the right amount of tension without being overdone, and the family dynamics (especially Kane’s father) kept me turning pages. There were moments where I genuinely didn’t know how things would play out.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Spice: 🌶
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Kanes Reckoning was a solid read. The flow was smooth, the storyline kept me engaged, and the character work, especially around PTSD, felt believable and impactful without dragging the tone down. I loved the mental health representation, the multi person reading, and the billionaire angle that did not feel over the top.
My only hang ups were the missing pieces in the relationship timeline. One page they share their first kiss and the next they are basically dating, which made the pacing feel jumpy. I’m not a huge fan of a “retelling” or going back and forth from past to present but was done well. The crescendo also hit abruptly. This book could have easily carried another 100 pages and still felt perfect.
Overall, a good read that I would recommend.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Kanes Reckoning was a solid read. The flow was smooth, the storyline kept me engaged, and the character work, especially around PTSD, felt believable and impactful without dragging the tone down. I loved the mental health representation, the multi person reading, and the billionaire angle that did not feel over the top.
My only hang ups were the missing pieces in the relationship timeline. One page they share their first kiss and the next they are basically dating, which made the pacing feel jumpy. I’m not a huge fan of a “retelling” or going back and forth from past to present but was done well. The crescendo also hit abruptly. This book could have easily carried another 100 pages and still felt perfect.
Overall, a good read that I would recommend.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Kane’s Reckoning by Bailey Thomas
After her stalker broke into her house and was put into jail, Annika decided she needed a fresh start and relocated from California to New York.
Shortly after arriving Annika takes a job to Nanny for the Billionaire Miller family to watch a little girl whose Dad is in London for work while her Uncle Kane will be there to help.
There is an immediate spark between Annika and Kane from the interview onward, but Kane’s father won’t stand for it, as the Miller family marries for business, not love or pleasure.
This took me a bit to get into the book as it was Annika sharing her version of what happened to her girlfriends, but once the book got me, I couldn’t put it down!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
After her stalker broke into her house and was put into jail, Annika decided she needed a fresh start and relocated from California to New York.
Shortly after arriving Annika takes a job to Nanny for the Billionaire Miller family to watch a little girl whose Dad is in London for work while her Uncle Kane will be there to help.
There is an immediate spark between Annika and Kane from the interview onward, but Kane’s father won’t stand for it, as the Miller family marries for business, not love or pleasure.
This took me a bit to get into the book as it was Annika sharing her version of what happened to her girlfriends, but once the book got me, I couldn’t put it down!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC read sent by Author.
I was one of the lucky ones to get an early read of Kane’s Reckoning.
Thank you Bailey for the opportunity.
Kane’s Reckoning is the fourth book in the Mill Creek Mystique series. Although it can be read as a stand alone, I recommend reading the other books first as there were a few things I felt I didn’t understand and missed since I’ve not read the others.
This book I found was fast passed and the romance was all in or nothing.
He falls first and won’t let anything keep him from his chance at happiness. Not even his father!
Tropes
- billionaire x nanny
- slow burn
- HEA
- past trauma
- forbidden romance
- found family
“Has anyone ever told you that your kisses are dangerous?”
3 ⭐️ .5 🌶️
I was one of the lucky ones to get an early read of Kane’s Reckoning.
Thank you Bailey for the opportunity.
Kane’s Reckoning is the fourth book in the Mill Creek Mystique series. Although it can be read as a stand alone, I recommend reading the other books first as there were a few things I felt I didn’t understand and missed since I’ve not read the others.
This book I found was fast passed and the romance was all in or nothing.
He falls first and won’t let anything keep him from his chance at happiness. Not even his father!
Tropes
- billionaire x nanny
- slow burn
- HEA
- past trauma
- forbidden romance
- found family
“Has anyone ever told you that your kisses are dangerous?”
3 ⭐️ .5 🌶️
May 21, 2026
Kane’s Reckoning is a lovely whirlwind romance read.
Kane Miller comes from a wealthy family, formed by generations of sacrifices for the sake of business - but when Kane’s father drops it on him that he’s expected to marry out of duty - he is less then thrilled. Annika Bauer is the nanny hired for Kane’s niece, having just moved to the big city after escaping and surviving her own personal hell. The attraction between them is instant - but dang if they can’t catch a break between his controlling father and her dangerous past. 4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ and 3 🌶️🌶️🌶️. I loved the way it bounced from present day to how Annika and Kane met and the way it brought in other characters from the series. Will defo be reading the complete series 💙
Kane Miller comes from a wealthy family, formed by generations of sacrifices for the sake of business - but when Kane’s father drops it on him that he’s expected to marry out of duty - he is less then thrilled. Annika Bauer is the nanny hired for Kane’s niece, having just moved to the big city after escaping and surviving her own personal hell. The attraction between them is instant - but dang if they can’t catch a break between his controlling father and her dangerous past. 4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ and 3 🌶️🌶️🌶️. I loved the way it bounced from present day to how Annika and Kane met and the way it brought in other characters from the series. Will defo be reading the complete series 💙
May 10, 2026
I was lucky enough to get this book as an ARC read.
I’ve not read a Bailey Thomas book before and I went into this book with no expectations. This is book #4 in the Mills Creek Mystique. I have not read the other books and I would recommend reading in order even though it is a standalone book.
Meet Kane who is an Architect from a billionaire family. Annika is the nanny who is employed to look after his neice.
I just loved the growth of the characters throughout this book. I found this book to be an easy read.
Tropes:
✨ Forbidden love
✨ Billionaire x Nanny
✨ Past trauma
✨ Starting over
✨ Slow burn
I’ve not read a Bailey Thomas book before and I went into this book with no expectations. This is book #4 in the Mills Creek Mystique. I have not read the other books and I would recommend reading in order even though it is a standalone book.
Meet Kane who is an Architect from a billionaire family. Annika is the nanny who is employed to look after his neice.
I just loved the growth of the characters throughout this book. I found this book to be an easy read.
Tropes:
✨ Forbidden love
✨ Billionaire x Nanny
✨ Past trauma
✨ Starting over
✨ Slow burn
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is a well written story about a wealthy man (Kane) and a nanny(Annika) meet while she is caring for his niece. It is wonderfully written and has great character build with twists and turns that will keep you intrigued throughout the story. I was drawn in right from the very beginning. With a stalker thrown into the mix it makes sense you will fight for the good guys and have some I’ll protect the ones I love. Highly recommend this enjoyable read. And I received this eARC and gladly give it this review. I couldn’t put it down so yes I devoured it lol.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Kane's Reckoning is not your typical nanny/billionaire love story. Kane is temporarily watching his niece with the help of Annika but his brother is alive and well and stays that way. They have immediate sparks but what fun would it be if things went smoothly? Kanes dad is the controlling megalomanic we all love to hate. I enjoyed this read, it actually reminded me of years ago when I would buy books from the grocery store, an short escape from life, not life changing but enjoyable nonetheless. If you used to enjoy an old red covered harlequin romance this is one is for you too.
May 11, 2026
I was one of the lucky ones to get an early read of Kane's Reckoning.
Bailey, thank you ever so for the opportunity.
It can be read as a stand alone, so that didn’t deter me from reading it. I really loved the slow burn for me and I really enjoyed that. Also courage to start over when life just tosses you a curveball.
I absolutely love the way she writes.
I love a book that has some spice, emotional pull, forbidden romance, and a slow burn. It think you’ll really enjoy this one. Putting the rest of the series on my TBR.
Bailey, thank you ever so for the opportunity.
It can be read as a stand alone, so that didn’t deter me from reading it. I really loved the slow burn for me and I really enjoyed that. Also courage to start over when life just tosses you a curveball.
I absolutely love the way she writes.
I love a book that has some spice, emotional pull, forbidden romance, and a slow burn. It think you’ll really enjoy this one. Putting the rest of the series on my TBR.
May 13, 2026
Book 4 of Mill Creek Mystique
'When Annika’s past intersects with Kane’s future, they find themselves caught in a conflict that could cost them everything.'
The characters were very complex and complicated and absolutely perfect together. Plot was intriguing and intense and well paced. World building was solidly drawn and impressive. All in all a great addition to the series. Thoroughly enjoyed and highly recommend.
Grab a copy, kick back and enjoy!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
'When Annika’s past intersects with Kane’s future, they find themselves caught in a conflict that could cost them everything.'
The characters were very complex and complicated and absolutely perfect together. Plot was intriguing and intense and well paced. World building was solidly drawn and impressive. All in all a great addition to the series. Thoroughly enjoyed and highly recommend.
Grab a copy, kick back and enjoy!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 23, 2026
Thank you @baileythomas for my ARC!
Review:
Overall I really enjoyed this book. It was very well written and there was good character development. I would have loved to have more of the background conversation between Kane and Annika as they got to know each other, otherwise it left a lot for the reader to interpret and fill in the blanks.
Definitely liked the dual POV and the time jump between current and 6 months prior when their story began!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Review:
Overall I really enjoyed this book. It was very well written and there was good character development. I would have loved to have more of the background conversation between Kane and Annika as they got to know each other, otherwise it left a lot for the reader to interpret and fill in the blanks.
Definitely liked the dual POV and the time jump between current and 6 months prior when their story began!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Review of advance copy received from Author
Having never read a Bailey Thomas book, I went into this ARC blind. Honestly though, isn’t that the best way to do it!?
In this instance, it sure was! I really enjoyed this book - the romance, the laughs, the suspense, and the characters are all brought together in a feel good way which resulted in a very enjoyable read. Kane and Annika told a love story we all wish we could experience.
Thank you for the opportunity to be an ARC reader!
In this instance, it sure was! I really enjoyed this book - the romance, the laughs, the suspense, and the characters are all brought together in a feel good way which resulted in a very enjoyable read. Kane and Annika told a love story we all wish we could experience.
Thank you for the opportunity to be an ARC reader!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Amazing book. I devoured it, turning the page with every turn. I loved seeing characters from the other stories make appearances (as is typical in this series), and the Mill Creek sisterhood is one of my favorite elements. The twists and turns, character development, slow-burning romance, and emotional tension kept me enthralled to the end.
Thank you to the author and publisher for this advanced reader copy. I am leaving a review voluntarily.
Thank you to the author and publisher for this advanced reader copy. I am leaving a review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I am so excited Bailey Thomas keeps continuing this amazing series. This is book 4 in the Mill Creek Mystique Series. I absolutely loved this forbidden romance. This book is about Kane and Annika and a love they wanted yet some fought to not let exist.
Kane was expected to take over his family company. It was expected from birth he was raised to do that. Kane wasn't interested he was interested in Annika his true passion and love. Yet Kane's family doesn't approve of her because she's hired as help. I'm going to let you read to see if they get there happily ever after because this book is so worth it.
Overall, I was super excited about the story I think the other did a fabulous job as she has with the other three. If you're looking for a book that has forbidden romance, a complicated family dynamic, a good emotional pull, and some suspense then this is your book.
Kane was expected to take over his family company. It was expected from birth he was raised to do that. Kane wasn't interested he was interested in Annika his true passion and love. Yet Kane's family doesn't approve of her because she's hired as help. I'm going to let you read to see if they get there happily ever after because this book is so worth it.
Overall, I was super excited about the story I think the other did a fabulous job as she has with the other three. If you're looking for a book that has forbidden romance, a complicated family dynamic, a good emotional pull, and some suspense then this is your book.
May 11, 2026
I have not read the other stories in the Mill Creek Mystique series… yet. I will after reading this one. Annika is looking for a change after a horrible trauma. Kane wants to get out from under his father’s control. Together, these two are unstoppable. This story has danger, drama, intrigue, betrayal but also loyalty, friendship, chemistry and a whole lot of heart and soul. Good wins in the end. Something we all could use right now.
May 14, 2026
As an introduction to Bailey Thomas, this was a great book to start with. I now will have the rest of the Standalone series on my TBR.
The story pulls you in very quickly with a cast of amazing characters that some have their own story in the previous books, but I don't feel like I missed anything by not reading the previous books( but will be changing that, as I added them to my wishlist.
4 Stars
2 peppers
The story pulls you in very quickly with a cast of amazing characters that some have their own story in the previous books, but I don't feel like I missed anything by not reading the previous books( but will be changing that, as I added them to my wishlist.
4 Stars
2 peppers
Review of advance copy received from Author
Omg this book had me in so many emotions.
I received this through ARC
Kane and Annika relationship had me in a spiral. I loved how they met with her as the nanny to his niece. And wow the trauma they both had to overcome
I loved the ending and how it turned out.
I cant wait to read the rest in the series
I received this through ARC
Kane and Annika relationship had me in a spiral. I loved how they met with her as the nanny to his niece. And wow the trauma they both had to overcome
I loved the ending and how it turned out.
I cant wait to read the rest in the series
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC REVIEW!
This book! oh, I'm so mad it took me as long as it did to finish this book( mom life). I LOVED Kane and Annika's story so much. The mystery aspect of it, the slight thriller aspect, Kane falling first and HARD, and talk about FAMILY DRAMA oh my lord! I had good expectations for this book, and I really enjoyed it!
This book! oh, I'm so mad it took me as long as it did to finish this book( mom life). I LOVED Kane and Annika's story so much. The mystery aspect of it, the slight thriller aspect, Kane falling first and HARD, and talk about FAMILY DRAMA oh my lord! I had good expectations for this book, and I really enjoyed it!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Annika meets Kane by becoming the nanny for his brother, she has just survived a horrible stalker experience and is cautious in life. Then she meets Kane and feels protected and comfortable until Kane shuts her out. She must learn how to tell her story to her friends and confess her love for Kane. Read as this book has family drama, powerful men, violence and love!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews