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Ace

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She’s running from the past, but falling for him might be the real gamble.



I didn’t come to the casino looking for trouble. I came looking for a way out.

My savior is made up of everything I should avoid. A biker with a dangerous smile, watchful eyes, and a reputation I don’t need explained.

When my past catches up—when the debt my ex left behind comes knocking with fists and threats—I don’t have the luxury of pride when it comes to the Outlaw Sinners.

I have a daughter to protect. Leliah comes first. Always.

Ace steps in like he’s the support I’ve been needing for years.

Now I’m stuck in his world, and instead of feeling scared, I feel something else under Ace’s care. Something hard to ignore, especially when we’re left together alone.

The worst part? The safer he makes me feel… the harder it is to remember why I want to leave.



She came to Steelwood’s territory like a bad hand—all nerves, no tells, and trouble sitting just under the surface.

I’ve spent my life reading people. Penny? She’s easy.

Running from a big problem while desperate to keep her daughter safe. Desperate enough to go to another club for help.

Desperate enough to ask me for protection.

The moment I put myself between her and the men hunting her, a bet was placed.

The Outlaw Sinners want what they’re owed? They’ll have to take it from me.

I’m not the kind of man who folds.

I sure as hell don’t let anyone touch what is mine.

Steelwood MC - Meadow Falls features darker themes throughout. Each book can be read in any order, and all conclude with a happily ever after guarantee!

111 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 7, 2026

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Julia Stone

74 books36 followers

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
Profile Image for Curvy Girl Book Nerd   (Jen S).
5,246 reviews67 followers
June 19, 2026
Penny and Ace

ACE is book 1 of the Steelwood MC - Meadow Falls series. It's a short and steamy, instalove, OTT, opposites-attract, forced-proximity, curvy single mom gets her biker darkish romance. Ace is a hunky biker with the Steelwood MC. Penny is a curvy single mom whose baby daddy left her high and dry to pay off his debts to another rival MC. She seeks out Steelwood as she has heard that they will help those in need. As she walks into one of their casinos with her daughter, Ace is immediately drawn to her. He vows to help and protect them both. I loved Ace. He was all in right away. These two had insane chemistry and we got a great HEA. I can't wait to read Smoke's book next.
Profile Image for Carolee.
599 reviews10 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
May 4, 2026
Ace by Julia Stone, part of the Steelwood MC – Meadow Falls series, delivers a gripping and emotionally charged journey that will captivate fans of motorcycle club romance. The story follows Penny, a woman desperate to escape her troubled past and protect her daughter, Leliah. Stone masterfully paints Penny’s vulnerability and determination as she finds herself drawn into a world she never intended to enter—one filled with danger, loyalty, and unexpected tenderness. The novel’s opening immediately sets the stakes high, drawing readers into the suspense and emotional weight of Penny’s situation.

At the heart of the story is Ace, a biker whose tough exterior hides a fiercely protective nature. The chemistry between Penny and Ace is sizzling, and their evolving relationship is as heartfelt as it is intense. Ace steps in as Penny’s unwavering support, offering safety and comfort in the face of threats from her past. The author skillfully balances action and romance, making moments between the couple feel both genuine and hard-won. Readers will find themselves rooting for Penny as she learns to trust again and for Ace as he proves himself to be more than just a protector.

Although Ace explores darker themes, it finishes with a satisfying happily ever after, making it a perfect pick for readers who crave both grit and hope in their romance novels. The standalone nature of the book means it can be enjoyed without prior knowledge of the series, and its pacing makes for a fast, engaging read—perfect for a cozy evening. With compelling characters, high stakes, and a strong emotional core, Ace is a standout beginning to the Steelwood MC - Meadow Falls collection and comes highly recommended for fans of over-the-top, heartfelt love stories.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Virginia.
637 reviews4 followers
May 7, 2026
Ace by Julia Stone is part of the Steelwood MC - Meadow Falls series and was a good read.
As an instalove, small town, single mum, OTT obsessed hero, MC biker romance, the plot and storyline was engaging and had me hooked quickly especially with the main characters of Ace and Penny.
Penny and her young daughter Leliah are on the run trying to avoid the Outlaw Sinners MC, a rival to the Steelwood MC. Penny with no one to turn to thought that the enemy of her enemy was her only chance. Meeting Ace and Smoke, two bikers with Steelwood MC, Penny quickly thinks there may be safe harbour after all especially with the way Ace steps up to help without hesitation.
Ace is instantly captivated by the beautiful Penny and can't believe that he is so willing to put himself between her and her past.
Ace takes Penny and Leliah to his apartment and Penny despite everything starts to feel safe under Ace's protection but worries that he'll want something in return when she has nothing to give.
Sparks of attraction turn into something more and the heat of their simmering chemistry ignites as Penny worries that Ace's interest is only temporary and Ace wants forever but doesn't want to scare her off.
The steamy and spicy scenes are tempered with an emerging emotional connection that was a pleasure to read and I easily kept turning the pages right through to the very end to see how their HEA comes about.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Korkoi.
7,741 reviews35 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
May 3, 2026
A Risk Worth the Happy Result -
From the moment Ace laid eyes on Penny, he knew he would not only protect her and her daughter, but he would make her his. Penny was initially reluctant to accept Ace’s help to keep her safe, but her reluctance slowly diminished the more time she spent with him, as her attraction for him grew. Ace and Penny grew closer over time as their chemistry sizzled, which led to them engaging in a steamy affair, but he knew she wouldn’t feel safe enough to truly open her heart until the situation she was running from was resolved.

Ace sought the help of his MC club to not only deal with the imminent danger, but also find Penny’s ex and send him to the people threatening her, so she could start living her life again. Fortunately, Penny and Ace got a chance to build the life they wanted once she was no longer in fear for her safety. This is emotion-filled, heartwarming romance story with a bit of drama and spiciness, that kept me easily turning pages all the way through to the amazing end.

I received a free review copy of this book via Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
1,275 reviews10 followers
May 14, 2026
This biker romance was such a lovely and enjoyable read. What really makes it stand out is the balance between the romance itself and the strong sense of brotherhood within the club. The relationships between the club members feel genuine, and the found-family atmosphere adds a lot of warmth to the story.
The female main character’s little girl is absolutely adorable and brings so much heart to the book. Watching how both mother and daughter are gradually welcomed into the club is one of the sweetest parts of the story and makes the emotional connections feel very real.
The romance is engaging and heartfelt, and the overall tone of the book blends emotional moments with the protective and loyal biker-club dynamic really well.
Overall, this is a warm, comforting biker romance with lovable characters and a strong sense of belonging throughout the story.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Sandra.
1,156 reviews8 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
May 5, 2026
Ace is happy with his single lifestyle; he's not looking for anything serious, that is, until his eyes meet Penny's, then all bets are off.

Penny has fled with her daughter, Leliah. She needs help and protection, and decides to go to the enemy of my enemy, in the hope they will help her.

Ace and Smoke agree to help Penny, and from then on, the temperature ramps up between them.

Penny is wary at first. Can she trust what Ace is saying? But he proves it time and time again, showing her that both she and her daughter are important to him. Ace will show that he will do everything in his power to keep the woman and child he loves safe above everything else.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Julie.
2,728 reviews19 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
May 7, 2026
This Steelwood MC story is out of the Meadow Falls chapter, and centers around Ace and a mother & daughter he's determined to protect. He's been a side character in previous storues,, but readers get to know a bit more about him and his personality in this book. Penny and Lrliah are tired, scared, and fleeing home after Leliah's father messed with the wrong people. She doesn't want to go to Steelwood for help, but knows they're her best, if not only, option. The connection and chemistry between Ace and Penny was almost immediate, as was the trust. Enjoyed his response to having his world flipped on its axis. It's a smooth, quick read with minimal MC drama.

I was gifted a copy of this book and voluntarily provided this review. Happy Reading Y'all 📚
1,323 reviews13 followers
May 7, 2026
This is the second book in the Steelwood MC - Meadow Falls series, and it is a good one, a bit on the tame side for being an MC story, but rich in story and heart.

Penny and her little daughter, Leliah arrrive into Ace arms as she is looking for help finding safety from an enemy MC. One look, and he knows that there is nothing that will separate him from them. Penny doesn't trust easy anymore, but she is instantly drawn to Ace, and is able to once again be herself under his care. Their chemistry is magnetic, sweet, and layered with insight. The way the characters grow through the story brings depth to the relationship, and the side characters are just a great addition to the story.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Praline 99.
1,476 reviews8 followers
May 30, 2026
MC Romance.
Penny is a young single mother fleeing her ex-boyfriend and his debts. She was searching for a solution to her problems to protect her daughter, who will always come first. But she never imagined she'd fall right back into trouble with the handsome but brooding As.
As is a member of the MC, and when he sees the beautiful Penny, he quickly realizes she's running from something big but is ready to do anything to protect her daughter. So when he asks for her help, he knows he'll do anything for her, even if it means completely falling for her.
Will Penny and As have a beautiful love story, or is Penny's past too dangerous….

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
154 reviews1 follower
Review of advance copy received from Author
May 6, 2026
Penny comes to the Stillwood MC looking for protection. Her ex. Got caught up in drugs and debated her and their child. To another motorcycle club. To pay for what he owes. Penny goes into the casino. Hearing that still would help protect innocent people. An ace. Comes to her rescue. Ace is instantly drawn to her and her daughter. And brings them to his apartment. To take care of them and protect them, he will do whatever he has to do to make sure that she is safe and that she wants to stay with him. The perpetual Batchelor falls quick and hard and quickly rearranges his life to suit having. Her and her daughter in his life. It was fun watching his transformation.
Profile Image for Melissa Wilson.
1,555 reviews9 followers
April 25, 2026
This book is part of Steelwood MC - Meadow Falls series. Tropes: biker, motorcycle club, rival club, single mom, and forced proximity. Penny is running from a motorcycle club with her toddler after her ex left them at the MCs mercy. Running to the rival MC Steelwood MC Penny finds a protector in Ace one of the bikers. I loved Ace. He was all in from the moment he seen Penny and her daughter. I love the brotherhood with the brothers. Enjoying the MC lite series. Can't wait for more of these biker's stories.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Grinning Cat.
4,436 reviews123 followers
May 8, 2026
The Instalove with the He Falls First is delightfully over the top. One look at Penny, and Ace is a goner. That was the best part of the book.
The suspense story was basically a MacGuffin. It’s the reason she asked for the MC’s help, but it didn’t really matter much to the book.
Cat’s Stats
Heat- explicit
Bechdel test- passed
Safety? Y
Triggers- violence
Tropes- single mom, adorable moppet, on the run, damsel in distress, he falls first, Instalove, forced proximity.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Johanna.
6,265 reviews100 followers
May 8, 2026
'The Outlaw Sinners want what they’re owed? They’ll have to take it from me.
I'm not the kind of man who folds.
I sure as hell don’t let anyone touch what is mine.'

The characters were very likeable and complicated and absolutely perfect together. Plot was intriguing and exciting and well paced. World building was solidly drawn and impressive. Thoroughly enjoyed and highly recommend!

Grab a copy, kick back and enjoy!.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Doris.
3,899 reviews141 followers
Review of advance copy
May 2, 2026
Her Protector

Penny is on the run with her daughter after her ex left her paying an MC for his actions. She runs straight to Steelwood MC looking for help. Ace is the first man to come upon Penny and her daughter and he feels immediate connection with her. He will do anything to keep both of the girls safe from their enemy MC even if it means finding her ex and turning him over to them.

This is a fast-paced MC read that was packed full of sweetness with a wonderful HEA.
68 reviews
Review of advance copy
May 4, 2026
If you enjoy a sweet mc romance with a golden retriever style hero that is loyal to his core then this is the book for you. Ace's story is one of love at first sight and his proving of himself to be the man that Penny and her daughter Leilah need. A great supportive cast of mc brothers that we are looking forward to meeting. Another good read from Julia Stone.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
4,063 reviews30 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
May 6, 2026
“Ace” by Julia Stone
-A fast-paced MC romance with high stakes, fierce loyalty, and a protective hero who falls hard and fast. I received a free copy and am voluntarily sharing my honest thoughts.
Penny’s vulnerability and strength shine as she fights for safety, while Ace proves himself steady, devoted, and all-in. The chemistry is intense, the danger keeps things moving, and the emotional payoff delivers a satisfying ending.
5,464 reviews30 followers
May 11, 2026
Penny does not have anywhere else to turn, her daughter, Lilah’s father has landed her in a mess. He owes money to an MC, the only option she has to is go the Steelwood MC, their rivals, for help. Ace takes one look at Penny and knows she is his and he will do everything to protect her and her little girl. Leliah take a shine to his brother Smoke, looking forward to his story.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Alex Wallace.
531 reviews1 follower
June 23, 2026
Ace and Penny are polar opposites and somehow are perfect for each other. Julia’s Steelwood MC series has me hooked, her ability to provide amazing and deep characters. Each book in this series has a different set of characters with their own stories and Julia has enough to make the stories not feel dull and repetitive. I look forward to more of Julia’s stories very soon.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Glendy Morrison.
172 reviews6 followers
June 28, 2026
He falls first

I wanted to try a new MC series and found this one. Penny needs help, she is running away from a MC that wants to take her daughter and she goes to the Steelwood for help, there she meets Ace, and he will do everything to keep her safe. Ace was the perfect gentleman but he was a goner from that first look. I liked that Penny found herself and that this whole club went soft with her daughter.
Profile Image for Merry Jelks-Emmanuel.
14.9k reviews160 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
May 6, 2026
When her ex leaves her to take the fallout for his mistakes Penny has no choice but to seek help from the culprit's enemies the Steelwood MC. She makes a connection with Ace and sparks ignites immediately between them. This heartfelt story drew me in and had me connecting with Penny and Ace from start to finish.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for The Book Ssirren.
5,859 reviews149 followers
Review of advance copy
May 7, 2026
Ace was amazing. When he realized that Penny was running with her daughter, he stepped in to protect her and keep the bad guys away. If they wanted their debt, they were going to have to go through him. This was intense and suspenseful. I loved the way he fell for Penny and her daughter. This was sweet and steamy. I absolutely loved this one.
Profile Image for Heather.
3,196 reviews5 followers
May 9, 2026
Amazing new series. I loved Penny and Ace, Both wonderful characters, When Penny and Leliah her daughter, She runs to Steelwood Mc and finds Ace, Ace will gladly help them. They have a instant connection, I really love this new series,.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
1,834 reviews8 followers
May 11, 2026
This is a great book! Once I started reading Penny and Ace's story, I didn't want to put it down. I ended up reading it through in one sitting. It is a quick and very enjoyable book. I recommend reading it. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
665 reviews3 followers
May 12, 2026
Penny and her daughter need help and Ace is the sweetest, most cheerful morally grey fella just aching to lend a helpful hand. These two are his lucky ladies. An absolute sweetheart of man! Definitely going to devour this in a day!.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Sinful Bookwyrm.
1,315 reviews22 followers
May 12, 2026
This was a good, quick. Lite MC biker romance, with little drama and a good HEA. The spice was very limited and it was more a story of Ace making sure Penny and her daughter was safe, and him making her safe. It was a good read and I am looking forward to reading Smoke's book.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Jenia Tortora.
1,640 reviews3 followers
May 15, 2026
Penny was desperate for help and went to the Steelwood MC for help. Her sweet daughter Leila and her were barely holding it together when Ace and Smoke come to see the issue. Ace falls hard for her and her sweet daughter. It’s a beautiful story with lots of love and steamy bits with an HEA that’s beyond perfect.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Michele79.
701 reviews7 followers
Review of advance copy
April 24, 2026
This was a great MC romance. I loved how Ace fell hard and fast for Penny and her daughter. He was protective and caring and absolutely sweet.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Debbie Benson.
11.1k reviews40 followers
Review of advance copy
May 5, 2026
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. I liked how Penny seeking help leads to finding love with Ace. I liked how Ace took care of the trouble her ex put her in.
Profile Image for Linnette Parris.
2,155 reviews9 followers
May 8, 2026
Damage Control

Her boyfriend got in trouble and left her to face the consequences. She heads off to Steelwood MC having heard they sometimes help people. Great story with humor, danger and romance. The ending made me happy!
313 reviews1 follower
May 9, 2026
This was such an incredible read. I absolutely loved it. Penny and Ace were amazing characters. I absolutely recommend this book.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews