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Dark Hearts of Redhaven #2
Пристрастен
Най-добрият приятел на брат ми някога държеше сърцето ми в ръцете си - докато не го подпали и не го превърна в пепел.
Грант не е причината да се връщам в Редхейвън. Не ме интересува, че е станал по-едър, по-мъжествен и по-опасно привлекателен от всякога. И изобщо няма значение, че се появява отново в живота ми още в мига, в който пристигнах обратно.
Веднъж ме нарани и този път съм решена, че няма да му позволя да го направи отново. Мога да се справя с всичко - с драмата, с тайните, със семейството си... дори и с него.
Или поне така си мислех...
Никол Сноу е автор на бестселъри в класациите на Wall Street Journal и USA Today. Продадени са над милион копия от нейните романи. Известна е на българските читатели с „Предложението“, „Предизвиквам те“, „Срещата“, „Офертата“ и „Бедствието“.
Грант не е причината да се връщам в Редхейвън. Не ме интересува, че е станал по-едър, по-мъжествен и по-опасно привлекателен от всякога. И изобщо няма значение, че се появява отново в живота ми още в мига, в който пристигнах обратно.
Веднъж ме нарани и този път съм решена, че няма да му позволя да го направи отново. Мога да се справя с всичко - с драмата, с тайните, със семейството си... дори и с него.
Или поне така си мислех...
Никол Сноу е автор на бестселъри в класациите на Wall Street Journal и USA Today. Продадени са над милион копия от нейните романи. Известна е на българските читатели с „Предложението“, „Предизвиквам те“, „Срещата“, „Офертата“ и „Бедствието“.
462 pages, Paperback
First published December 19, 2023
About the author
Nicole Snow
125 books6,577 followersNicole Snow is a Wall Street Journal and USA Today bestselling author. She found her love of writing by hashing out love scenes on lunch breaks and plotting her great escape from boardrooms. Her work roared onto the indie romance scene in 2014 with her Grizzlies MC series.
Since then Snow aims for the very best in growly, heart-of-gold alpha heroes, unbelievable suspense, and swoon storms aplenty.
Current fan favorites include her Enguard Protectors series, accidental love novels, plus long beloved MC romance thrillers like the Grizzlies and Deadly Pistols.
Find more about Nicole here:
Website: http://nicolesnowbooks.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicolesnowbo...
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/nicol...
Twitter: https://twitter.com/NicoleSnowBooks
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Nicole-Snow/e/...
Since then Snow aims for the very best in growly, heart-of-gold alpha heroes, unbelievable suspense, and swoon storms aplenty.
Current fan favorites include her Enguard Protectors series, accidental love novels, plus long beloved MC romance thrillers like the Grizzlies and Deadly Pistols.
Find more about Nicole here:
Website: http://nicolesnowbooks.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicolesnowbo...
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/nicol...
Twitter: https://twitter.com/NicoleSnowBooks
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Nicole-Snow/e/...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 324 reviews
July 19, 2025
4.5/5 ⭐️
obsessed is an understatement
obsessed is an understatement
February 22, 2024
I don’t think the author really thought through the age gap she determined while writing this book. It’s never explicitly stated exactly what it is (I thought at one point it was stated it was 10 years, but I went back through and couldn’t find it). I actually wanted to DNF at 20% because I was so grossed out, but finished just to see if I could figure out exactly how far apart in age they are. Unfortunately, trying to use context clues makes it even more confusing:
- Grant is 39. That is stated explicitly. Unless I glossed over it at some point, Ophelia’s age is not.
- Ophelia left “the second she was college ready” but it’s also stated she’s “barely old enough to drink” at that time, so I guess she could be 18-21 when she leaves, assuming he might not necessarily mean drink *legally* and/or if she wasn’t “college ready” until a few years after high school. Meaning an 8-11 year age gap.
- At one point, they’re talking about one time she was allowed into the treehouse even though it said “no gurls allowed.” Grant points out it happened “almost thirty years ago. You were barely a toddler then. You were a baby, not a girl.” Okay, so this is consistent with the 8-11 year age gap…sorta. I mean, SHE brought it up. Not like she was 1-2 remembering it. Let’s just say 3-5 (I’d say 5 is really pushing “barely a toddler,” but he could easily be exaggerating). And if it happened 27-29 years ago, he would’ve been 10-12. So a 6-10 year age gap.
- At one point, they’re discussing a time when Grant always told Ophelia to go home and she assumed it was because she was annoying. Grant says it’s because the stuff they were doing was “too dangerous for a little girl still in high school.” Okay, Grant was 20 when Ethan disappeared, and let’s just assume they were at least out of high school otherwise he was a hypocrite. So he was 18-20. If she’s in high school, she’s 14-18. That would mean a 0-6 year age gap. Because this is pretty inconsistent with other context clues, I’m going to have to kind of disregard this possible age gap.
- Grant and Ethan met in grade school, before Ophelia was even born. So that’s at *least* 5 years if you assume he means Kindergarten. Except, Ethan was reading “his Tolkien books.” And there’s just NO way. He’d have to be a savant to be reading (and understanding and enjoying) Lord of the Rings at age 5 and we have NO reason to believe that’s true. I’m not buying it before 7-8 at the earliest. Which puts the age gap at 7-8 IF Angela was already pregnant with Ophelia and she’s born shortly after they met (never established). But probably more like 8-9+.
Whatever the age gap is, it’s gross AF:
- Grant says he was “fixated on” Ophelia since high school. Just…actually think what that means. If he was 14, she would’ve been 3-8. If he was 17, she would’ve been 6-11. And most likely on the younger end of those spectrums 🤢🤮. Absolutely none of those scenarios are okay. When he said that is when I was about to DNF this book. I have read age-gap books before, but NEVER have I read one that so heavily implies that the older character was attracted to the younger character when they were still a child. Usually, the age gap is MUCH smaller (4 years or less, so they could attend high school together), the characters did not know each other when the younger one was a minor, or it is made VERY clear (usually on MULTIPLE) occasions that the older character only had strictly platonic feelings for the younger one until after they became an adult. I cannot understand why an author would ever risk their MMC being viewed as a predator by implying he has been attracted to the FMC since he was a teen and she was a CHILD.
- Grants’s mom apparently was apparently trying to push the two of them together by inviting her over and “trying to get [them] to hang out alone, secretly hoping her son would make a move” “especially after [Ophelia] turned 18 (when he son was anywhere between 24 and 29. Ophelia’s mom says she’s “waited for [Ophelia] and Grant to find each other [their] entire lives.” Gross. Was everyone just grooming her for this man? Guess it would explain why she didn’t realize a “father figure” doctor wanted to get “handsy” with her, but that would be a very nuanced bit of character development that just does not exist in this book.
- Ophelia asks Grant when he realized he had feelings for her. This was the author’s opportunity to make it VERY clear that she was 18+ when it happened. She fumbles it, big time, especially when this moment is viewed in the full context of the story. His response is “Can’t say […] one day you were this bratty thing following us around. Then I blinked and you were still a huge brat, but a girl, too. Then a woman, as time went by. Once I saw you that way, there was no blinding myself again. Couldn’t stop if I tried. Even though I knew Ethan would kill me.” Ophelia then asks if Ethan knew. WTAF? It’s explicitly stated that Ethan disappeared when Grant was 20, which would’ve made Ophelia 9-14. THANKFULLY, Grant says it wasn’t until after Ethan disappeared, though he doesn’t elaborate on how much later. This is also inconsistent with him being obsessed with her since high school, and they later visit his headstone together and he says “if I could kiss you in front of your brother, you’d have known how I felt a lot sooner.” 🤢🤢
This gross AF age gap often makes no sense with the story:
- Ophelia constantly comments on how Grant has gone from boy to man. Ma’am, he was 29 when you left! He was already a man and had been for a while!
- Ophelia, Grant and Ethan were “The Three Musketeers” “always together” despite this huge age gap, which just doesn’t make sense. Guess that’s why Ophelia has literally no real friends in her wedding party.
- Ophelia says “I remember the first time Ethan brought his new best friend home for dinner.” But, as discussed, it’s established that she wasn’t even BORN when they met, and he says he was around Angela before then, so it’s not like it just took 5+ years of friendship for him to go over for dinner.
- They couldn’t discuss their feelings before because “they would’ve been crushed and silenced forever under the weight of grieving Ethan, back when it was so fresh and killing.” I mean, he’d been missing for 10 years when she left. That’s not all that “fresh.”
Other issues I had:
- The town is made up, but it’s somewhere near Raleigh, NC. The coroner is “Raleigh County Coroner” (not a real county, not sure if that’s intentional. Raleigh is in Wake County). It’s early October. Everyone makes a huge deal about Ophelia not having a real jacket, even though the weather is in the mid-high 70s in early October. The lack of jacket is brought up ALL THE TIME, but no one ever bothers to actually GET her a jacket until like 6-8 weeks later (timeline is SO unclear in this book).
- Thanks to her training and experience as a nurse, Ophelia recognizes that her “stalker” is in a “storm of mental distress” during their first interaction. She also theorizes he might have dementia. Yet later her big plan is to just…talk to him and see what he wants…? Her training and experience as a nurse makes her think that would get them somewhere?
- Nell was “barely a year old” when her parents died, and she’s 9 now, so she’s been with Grant for ~8 years and would definitely retain NO memories of her parents or before living with Grant. Nell and others say she “misses” having a mom. Not “I wish I had a mom” or “She would really benefit from having a mother-figure.” Even though she would have no memory of what it’s like to have one.
- I have never read a book with the single-parent trope where it plays out like this. There is no hesitation/concern/resistance/worry/anything from ANYONE involved in this. Not Grant. Not Ophelia. Not Nell. It is never a conflict. Ophelia steps into a motherly role from her first interaction with Nell and never looks back. Grant never worries about the impact on Nell or questions Ophelia on decisions she makes. On like their second or third time interacting, Nell asks Ophelia, “Are you gonna be my mommy?”
- For their first date, they go out with Nell to a fancy steakhouse and a kid’s movie. After school and after they’ve had time for Nell to do most of her homework and they all get ready. On a school night. And Ophelia’s great idea is to tell Nell she can do her history homework after they get home. What? No. Wait until the weekend. It’s probably like 9:00 when the movie ends. At least she realistically falls asleep in the car. That’s way too late to plan to have a 9 year old out on a school night when she still needs to finish her homework.
- Grant literally watches a blatant drug deal go down and then says “shame I got no probable cause.” Lmao.
- Asking me to suspend my disbelief that Ophelia’s mom is getting this “ultra-experimental chemo [with an] induced coma” (which, of course, works) is one thing. Asking me to believe she’s getting it in a rural hospital with a *three bed oncology unit* is another. Especially when they live so close to the research triangle where it would actually make some semblance of sense.
- Grant’s National Guard “storyline” serves no real purpose and it is so poorly informed and researched it’s distracting. It is mentioned twice: the first to emphasize just how beautiful he finds Ophelia. He says he did a “brief stint” in the National Guard “for a couple of years after she left town.” A National Guard enlistment period is 8 years, 3-6 active and the rest as ready reserve. I guess I could really, really stretch and assume that they just let him out when he became Nell’s caregiver, but I’d have to suspend my disbelief quite a bit since it’s been made really clear his parents are very active in helping care for her and would’ve been able to watch her for the one weekend a month and two weeks in the summer. Anyways, in that “couple of years” he apparently saw “dozens of natural wonders from the back of an armored truck or helicopter” including the Grand Canyon and “the largest tree in the world” (presumably the General Sherman tree) and has been “all over North America and seen it all.” Just…no. In no way do I believe that in two years, his work with the National Guard had him seeing all that. That would literally be better explained by ANY other explanation. Even just traveling to travel. The only other time it’s mentioned is to try and explain Grant’s “tactical driving” knowledge…what????? No. That makes no sense. You know what does make sense? Knowing tactical driving skills because you’re a COP.
- The “stalker” who is wanted for Ophelia’s assault shows up and Grant takes off after him without calling for backup because “the boys would never let [him] live it down for the next decade” if he called 9-1-1 from his house. Give me a break. I’m sure even police departments in made up towns advise against officers pursuing dangerous suspects without calling for backup.
- “Wait, he’s seizing, Grant. That’s a classic symptom of ricin poisoning.” I literally burst out laughing when I read that. Seizing is a symptom of a LOT of things, and “may” occur with ricin poisoning but don’t try to tell me a hospice nurse recognizes “classic” symptoms of an uncommon poison. Later it’s established it’s some generic unnamed “slow acting agent that wasn’t dosed right”
- Early on, there’s this whole bit about Ophelia needing to come into the hospital to fix as issue with her mom’s DNR and she can’t believe her mom signed one. I had no issue with that at the time. Then there’s this dramatic scene where her mom flatlines and Ophelia runs in to try and revive her herself, which, operating under the assumption her mom had a DNR, I understood. But then when they pull her away so the nurses and doctors start resuscitation I got very, very confused. If she has a DNR, that’s assault. They could get sued. But then it’s explained that her mom’s DNR basically just said to stop resuscitation if she would be brain dead. Okay…first, that’s just standard practice. Second, that’s not a DNR. DNR means “do not resuscitate.” Which means, if my heart stops, do not do anything to make it start again. What she had was an advanced medical directive.
- Everyone thinks kinda maybe Rosalind might be taking drugs. Even though she’s full-on stereotypical drug addict. Then it’s revealed it’s cocaine and random pills that were “opium, maybe?” Lmao. What? Opiates? That would make sense. Pills of just opium? Lmaoooo. Then she does what everyone calls a “stint in rehab” but is really just her detoxing at the hospital.
- Going through two BOTTLES of Sriracha a week with two people eating it? I mean, this is a minor complaint, but come on!
- Ethan was chased off the road and died in the crash. It would make WAY more sense to just leave him there than to hide the body and motorcycle. Sure, it worked out in their favor that everyone assumed he killed Celeste or they ran off together, but it was a pretty big risk when just leaving him there would’ve looked like he died in an accident and then his family and cop best friend would’ve left it alone instead of pursuing answers for 20 years.
- Just because the sex scenes are like 10 pages long, does not mean this book contains “serious spice” as stated in the book description. They are rambling poetic nonsense interrupted by some of the cringiest “dirty talk” I have ever read. For example: “I took your pussy to the moon […] you were screamin’ for me like a banshee” (a description he later uses for an ambulance siren lmao) and “Bring that little pussy the fuck off, Philia.” 😬😬
- This is supposed to be a grumpy/sunshine trope. Sure Grant is pretty grumpy. But Ophelia is basically miserable about every aspect of her life from the jump. The only “sunshine” you get is when she’s acting like a child. Just…no. Just because the MMC *says* she’s like sunshine because she isn’t outwardly acting traumatized by being attacked does not make this a grumpy/sunshine book. This is a showing vs telling issue for this author. Nothing I’m *shown* about Ophelia makes me think she’s a sunshine.
- Grant is 39. That is stated explicitly. Unless I glossed over it at some point, Ophelia’s age is not.
- Ophelia left “the second she was college ready” but it’s also stated she’s “barely old enough to drink” at that time, so I guess she could be 18-21 when she leaves, assuming he might not necessarily mean drink *legally* and/or if she wasn’t “college ready” until a few years after high school. Meaning an 8-11 year age gap.
- At one point, they’re talking about one time she was allowed into the treehouse even though it said “no gurls allowed.” Grant points out it happened “almost thirty years ago. You were barely a toddler then. You were a baby, not a girl.” Okay, so this is consistent with the 8-11 year age gap…sorta. I mean, SHE brought it up. Not like she was 1-2 remembering it. Let’s just say 3-5 (I’d say 5 is really pushing “barely a toddler,” but he could easily be exaggerating). And if it happened 27-29 years ago, he would’ve been 10-12. So a 6-10 year age gap.
- At one point, they’re discussing a time when Grant always told Ophelia to go home and she assumed it was because she was annoying. Grant says it’s because the stuff they were doing was “too dangerous for a little girl still in high school.” Okay, Grant was 20 when Ethan disappeared, and let’s just assume they were at least out of high school otherwise he was a hypocrite. So he was 18-20. If she’s in high school, she’s 14-18. That would mean a 0-6 year age gap. Because this is pretty inconsistent with other context clues, I’m going to have to kind of disregard this possible age gap.
- Grant and Ethan met in grade school, before Ophelia was even born. So that’s at *least* 5 years if you assume he means Kindergarten. Except, Ethan was reading “his Tolkien books.” And there’s just NO way. He’d have to be a savant to be reading (and understanding and enjoying) Lord of the Rings at age 5 and we have NO reason to believe that’s true. I’m not buying it before 7-8 at the earliest. Which puts the age gap at 7-8 IF Angela was already pregnant with Ophelia and she’s born shortly after they met (never established). But probably more like 8-9+.
Whatever the age gap is, it’s gross AF:
- Grant says he was “fixated on” Ophelia since high school. Just…actually think what that means. If he was 14, she would’ve been 3-8. If he was 17, she would’ve been 6-11. And most likely on the younger end of those spectrums 🤢🤮. Absolutely none of those scenarios are okay. When he said that is when I was about to DNF this book. I have read age-gap books before, but NEVER have I read one that so heavily implies that the older character was attracted to the younger character when they were still a child. Usually, the age gap is MUCH smaller (4 years or less, so they could attend high school together), the characters did not know each other when the younger one was a minor, or it is made VERY clear (usually on MULTIPLE) occasions that the older character only had strictly platonic feelings for the younger one until after they became an adult. I cannot understand why an author would ever risk their MMC being viewed as a predator by implying he has been attracted to the FMC since he was a teen and she was a CHILD.
- Grants’s mom apparently was apparently trying to push the two of them together by inviting her over and “trying to get [them] to hang out alone, secretly hoping her son would make a move” “especially after [Ophelia] turned 18 (when he son was anywhere between 24 and 29. Ophelia’s mom says she’s “waited for [Ophelia] and Grant to find each other [their] entire lives.” Gross. Was everyone just grooming her for this man? Guess it would explain why she didn’t realize a “father figure” doctor wanted to get “handsy” with her, but that would be a very nuanced bit of character development that just does not exist in this book.
- Ophelia asks Grant when he realized he had feelings for her. This was the author’s opportunity to make it VERY clear that she was 18+ when it happened. She fumbles it, big time, especially when this moment is viewed in the full context of the story. His response is “Can’t say […] one day you were this bratty thing following us around. Then I blinked and you were still a huge brat, but a girl, too. Then a woman, as time went by. Once I saw you that way, there was no blinding myself again. Couldn’t stop if I tried. Even though I knew Ethan would kill me.” Ophelia then asks if Ethan knew. WTAF? It’s explicitly stated that Ethan disappeared when Grant was 20, which would’ve made Ophelia 9-14. THANKFULLY, Grant says it wasn’t until after Ethan disappeared, though he doesn’t elaborate on how much later. This is also inconsistent with him being obsessed with her since high school, and they later visit his headstone together and he says “if I could kiss you in front of your brother, you’d have known how I felt a lot sooner.” 🤢🤢
This gross AF age gap often makes no sense with the story:
- Ophelia constantly comments on how Grant has gone from boy to man. Ma’am, he was 29 when you left! He was already a man and had been for a while!
- Ophelia, Grant and Ethan were “The Three Musketeers” “always together” despite this huge age gap, which just doesn’t make sense. Guess that’s why Ophelia has literally no real friends in her wedding party.
- Ophelia says “I remember the first time Ethan brought his new best friend home for dinner.” But, as discussed, it’s established that she wasn’t even BORN when they met, and he says he was around Angela before then, so it’s not like it just took 5+ years of friendship for him to go over for dinner.
- They couldn’t discuss their feelings before because “they would’ve been crushed and silenced forever under the weight of grieving Ethan, back when it was so fresh and killing.” I mean, he’d been missing for 10 years when she left. That’s not all that “fresh.”
Other issues I had:
- The town is made up, but it’s somewhere near Raleigh, NC. The coroner is “Raleigh County Coroner” (not a real county, not sure if that’s intentional. Raleigh is in Wake County). It’s early October. Everyone makes a huge deal about Ophelia not having a real jacket, even though the weather is in the mid-high 70s in early October. The lack of jacket is brought up ALL THE TIME, but no one ever bothers to actually GET her a jacket until like 6-8 weeks later (timeline is SO unclear in this book).
- Thanks to her training and experience as a nurse, Ophelia recognizes that her “stalker” is in a “storm of mental distress” during their first interaction. She also theorizes he might have dementia. Yet later her big plan is to just…talk to him and see what he wants…? Her training and experience as a nurse makes her think that would get them somewhere?
- Nell was “barely a year old” when her parents died, and she’s 9 now, so she’s been with Grant for ~8 years and would definitely retain NO memories of her parents or before living with Grant. Nell and others say she “misses” having a mom. Not “I wish I had a mom” or “She would really benefit from having a mother-figure.” Even though she would have no memory of what it’s like to have one.
- I have never read a book with the single-parent trope where it plays out like this. There is no hesitation/concern/resistance/worry/anything from ANYONE involved in this. Not Grant. Not Ophelia. Not Nell. It is never a conflict. Ophelia steps into a motherly role from her first interaction with Nell and never looks back. Grant never worries about the impact on Nell or questions Ophelia on decisions she makes. On like their second or third time interacting, Nell asks Ophelia, “Are you gonna be my mommy?”
- For their first date, they go out with Nell to a fancy steakhouse and a kid’s movie. After school and after they’ve had time for Nell to do most of her homework and they all get ready. On a school night. And Ophelia’s great idea is to tell Nell she can do her history homework after they get home. What? No. Wait until the weekend. It’s probably like 9:00 when the movie ends. At least she realistically falls asleep in the car. That’s way too late to plan to have a 9 year old out on a school night when she still needs to finish her homework.
- Grant literally watches a blatant drug deal go down and then says “shame I got no probable cause.” Lmao.
- Asking me to suspend my disbelief that Ophelia’s mom is getting this “ultra-experimental chemo [with an] induced coma” (which, of course, works) is one thing. Asking me to believe she’s getting it in a rural hospital with a *three bed oncology unit* is another. Especially when they live so close to the research triangle where it would actually make some semblance of sense.
- Grant’s National Guard “storyline” serves no real purpose and it is so poorly informed and researched it’s distracting. It is mentioned twice: the first to emphasize just how beautiful he finds Ophelia. He says he did a “brief stint” in the National Guard “for a couple of years after she left town.” A National Guard enlistment period is 8 years, 3-6 active and the rest as ready reserve. I guess I could really, really stretch and assume that they just let him out when he became Nell’s caregiver, but I’d have to suspend my disbelief quite a bit since it’s been made really clear his parents are very active in helping care for her and would’ve been able to watch her for the one weekend a month and two weeks in the summer. Anyways, in that “couple of years” he apparently saw “dozens of natural wonders from the back of an armored truck or helicopter” including the Grand Canyon and “the largest tree in the world” (presumably the General Sherman tree) and has been “all over North America and seen it all.” Just…no. In no way do I believe that in two years, his work with the National Guard had him seeing all that. That would literally be better explained by ANY other explanation. Even just traveling to travel. The only other time it’s mentioned is to try and explain Grant’s “tactical driving” knowledge…what????? No. That makes no sense. You know what does make sense? Knowing tactical driving skills because you’re a COP.
- The “stalker” who is wanted for Ophelia’s assault shows up and Grant takes off after him without calling for backup because “the boys would never let [him] live it down for the next decade” if he called 9-1-1 from his house. Give me a break. I’m sure even police departments in made up towns advise against officers pursuing dangerous suspects without calling for backup.
- “Wait, he’s seizing, Grant. That’s a classic symptom of ricin poisoning.” I literally burst out laughing when I read that. Seizing is a symptom of a LOT of things, and “may” occur with ricin poisoning but don’t try to tell me a hospice nurse recognizes “classic” symptoms of an uncommon poison. Later it’s established it’s some generic unnamed “slow acting agent that wasn’t dosed right”
- Early on, there’s this whole bit about Ophelia needing to come into the hospital to fix as issue with her mom’s DNR and she can’t believe her mom signed one. I had no issue with that at the time. Then there’s this dramatic scene where her mom flatlines and Ophelia runs in to try and revive her herself, which, operating under the assumption her mom had a DNR, I understood. But then when they pull her away so the nurses and doctors start resuscitation I got very, very confused. If she has a DNR, that’s assault. They could get sued. But then it’s explained that her mom’s DNR basically just said to stop resuscitation if she would be brain dead. Okay…first, that’s just standard practice. Second, that’s not a DNR. DNR means “do not resuscitate.” Which means, if my heart stops, do not do anything to make it start again. What she had was an advanced medical directive.
- Everyone thinks kinda maybe Rosalind might be taking drugs. Even though she’s full-on stereotypical drug addict. Then it’s revealed it’s cocaine and random pills that were “opium, maybe?” Lmao. What? Opiates? That would make sense. Pills of just opium? Lmaoooo. Then she does what everyone calls a “stint in rehab” but is really just her detoxing at the hospital.
- Going through two BOTTLES of Sriracha a week with two people eating it? I mean, this is a minor complaint, but come on!
- Ethan was chased off the road and died in the crash. It would make WAY more sense to just leave him there than to hide the body and motorcycle. Sure, it worked out in their favor that everyone assumed he killed Celeste or they ran off together, but it was a pretty big risk when just leaving him there would’ve looked like he died in an accident and then his family and cop best friend would’ve left it alone instead of pursuing answers for 20 years.
- Just because the sex scenes are like 10 pages long, does not mean this book contains “serious spice” as stated in the book description. They are rambling poetic nonsense interrupted by some of the cringiest “dirty talk” I have ever read. For example: “I took your pussy to the moon […] you were screamin’ for me like a banshee” (a description he later uses for an ambulance siren lmao) and “Bring that little pussy the fuck off, Philia.” 😬😬
- This is supposed to be a grumpy/sunshine trope. Sure Grant is pretty grumpy. But Ophelia is basically miserable about every aspect of her life from the jump. The only “sunshine” you get is when she’s acting like a child. Just…no. Just because the MMC *says* she’s like sunshine because she isn’t outwardly acting traumatized by being attacked does not make this a grumpy/sunshine book. This is a showing vs telling issue for this author. Nothing I’m *shown* about Ophelia makes me think she’s a sunshine.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 16, 2023
There is nothing I can say about this book except its exceptional and its deserves to be made into a film. I have never read any of Nicole's books before, but I will definitely be reading them now. She's a truly talented writer, from turning the first page I didn't want to put it down. The story follows Ophelia and Grant in a truly unbelievable journey of twists and turns. Ophelia left Redhaven ten years ago after the disappearance of her brother she needed to find herself and going to train as a nurse was the perfect excuse. Leaving behind Grant her one and only true love, after arguing and him telling her "go and never come back", she realised all she'll ever be to him is his best friends annoying little sister. Now returning to look after her mom she finds he's the captain of the police department and that her feelings for him still haven't gone away. This starts the beginning of a trail of twists and turns that bring the past into the future. Secrets, sucides, stalking, this is just a few of the things facing them. I kept saying one more chapter and eight chapters later still unable to put this down. Will this couple really every find a way to be together or has fate other plans. I really feel lucky to have got this as an ARC copy and this is my own personal and honest opinion and review of the book. I really hope you'll enjoy this as much as I have I can't recommend it enough.
December 16, 2023
Okay so hear me out, normally I love dark romance and my hero’s dark and gritty. But!!!!…. I am a HUGE fan of Nicole Snow. She’s one of my favorite authors. All her books are just feel good, sweet, and filled with mystery, drama and suspense. I was thrilled to be given a chance to read an arc copy of The Sweetest Obsession.
This book hits several trope types:
Age gap ✔️
Small town✔️
Friends to lovers✔️
Second chance✔️
Brothers best friend✔️
Single dad✔️
Military/cops✔️
The Sweetest Obsession is told in dual POVs and starts out with 36 year old Grant. As the police captain in their small town we are thrown straight into a mystery when Grant is called to a suicide at the Arrendal mansion. Grant is also raising is 9 your old cousin who calls him uncle Grant, assuming the roll of daddy to her. Later we meet 26 year old Ophelia as she comes back into town to take care of her sick mother. When Ophelia moves in with Grant due to Grants protective nature not only do sparks fly but Ophelia suddenly finds herself to be smitten with Nell, Grants adopted daughter. As the book progresses Grant continues to show his fierceness when not only Ophelia is threatened but Nell as well. Can these two make their rekindled love last til the end or are they inevitably doomed from the start? Pick up this book to find out!
Guys. I would give this 100 starts if I could. I don’t normally read these types I promise not only is The Sweestest Obsession worth it, but all of Nicole Snow’s books are!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This book hits several trope types:
Age gap ✔️
Small town✔️
Friends to lovers✔️
Second chance✔️
Brothers best friend✔️
Single dad✔️
Military/cops✔️
The Sweetest Obsession is told in dual POVs and starts out with 36 year old Grant. As the police captain in their small town we are thrown straight into a mystery when Grant is called to a suicide at the Arrendal mansion. Grant is also raising is 9 your old cousin who calls him uncle Grant, assuming the roll of daddy to her. Later we meet 26 year old Ophelia as she comes back into town to take care of her sick mother. When Ophelia moves in with Grant due to Grants protective nature not only do sparks fly but Ophelia suddenly finds herself to be smitten with Nell, Grants adopted daughter. As the book progresses Grant continues to show his fierceness when not only Ophelia is threatened but Nell as well. Can these two make their rekindled love last til the end or are they inevitably doomed from the start? Pick up this book to find out!
Guys. I would give this 100 starts if I could. I don’t normally read these types I promise not only is The Sweestest Obsession worth it, but all of Nicole Snow’s books are!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 18, 2023
I loved this book. Ophelia returns home after 10 years to help with her ailing mother. Her home town has sad memories of her brother who went missing, his best friend who she loved but he sent her away and her sister who is mixed up with the town trouble maker. Grant is now the police Captain and has never forgotten Ophelia. He doesn’t plan on letting this second chance with Ophelia go to waste. Mystery, suspense and love. This book has it all.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 28, 2024
This book took me awhile to get into but, once things started to speed up I couldn’t put the book down. There was so much suspense, mystery, and romance packed into this book. I promise you will fall in love with the main character especially little Nell. Im excited to see what other books get added in to the series.
November 1, 2024
good read. steamy scenes but i dont think there was much of a plot
October 6, 2024
After reading all three books… the three couples were written the same way. Same catch phrases, the females all yelling Dude! … by the end I wasn’t sure which couple I was reading about!
July 23, 2024
Little age-gap, second chance with mystery and passion; 5-plus-stars!
If you like steamy, spine-tingling, suspense-filled stories with incredible characters, you will want to read this book! Another sizzler for Ms. Snow. How does she continue to give us these amazing characters going through astounding events with steam and touching moments? I loved how she didn’t put us through agonies waiting for the H and h to realize there was an attraction not to be avoided. No angsty does-he or will-she stuff. Grant is a man who is 36yo and realizes that this is his opportunity for a second chance when Ophelia comes home after being gone for ten years. She is now 28yo and more woman than when she left Redhaven, NC years ago. She wonders if she can let her childhood friend Grant know how she truly feels about him. Wonderful ending with good things and bad things but “a month later” is perfection which caused happy tears. The intrigue surrounding the Arrendell family and the Jacobins will continue to fascinate. Will they ever get their just rewards? As always try to find the mention of other series’ characters written by Ms. Snow. She tucks in their mention from time to time.
I volunteered to review an ARC of this book. If you want to know more about the Arrendell scary crazy family, you will want to read the first book in this series: “The Broken Protector.” Another 5+ creation by Ms. Snow.
If you like steamy, spine-tingling, suspense-filled stories with incredible characters, you will want to read this book! Another sizzler for Ms. Snow. How does she continue to give us these amazing characters going through astounding events with steam and touching moments? I loved how she didn’t put us through agonies waiting for the H and h to realize there was an attraction not to be avoided. No angsty does-he or will-she stuff. Grant is a man who is 36yo and realizes that this is his opportunity for a second chance when Ophelia comes home after being gone for ten years. She is now 28yo and more woman than when she left Redhaven, NC years ago. She wonders if she can let her childhood friend Grant know how she truly feels about him. Wonderful ending with good things and bad things but “a month later” is perfection which caused happy tears. The intrigue surrounding the Arrendell family and the Jacobins will continue to fascinate. Will they ever get their just rewards? As always try to find the mention of other series’ characters written by Ms. Snow. She tucks in their mention from time to time.
I volunteered to review an ARC of this book. If you want to know more about the Arrendell scary crazy family, you will want to read the first book in this series: “The Broken Protector.” Another 5+ creation by Ms. Snow.
February 17, 2024
To be 100% honest the story got boring as it went by : less conversation more about how Grant and Ophelia felt about their reality they live in
But i couldn’t complain cz the writing and the way the author told the story was so heart touching, it made it feel like it was not just abt philia and Grant but also about ppl who keep dwelling on past and grieving it
Every now and then a sentence could’ve stabbed you in the heart just bcz how relatable it felt to the real life
Absolutely loved this about the book it felt more in touch with reality rather than just a fantasy
But i couldn’t complain cz the writing and the way the author told the story was so heart touching, it made it feel like it was not just abt philia and Grant but also about ppl who keep dwelling on past and grieving it
Every now and then a sentence could’ve stabbed you in the heart just bcz how relatable it felt to the real life
Absolutely loved this about the book it felt more in touch with reality rather than just a fantasy
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 29, 2023
This book lost me at 70% and wet downhill for me. A breakup just to have a breakup. It is never fully clear why Ros dated Alexsander and what his motive was or his father’s motives.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 6, 2024
Good story saw it coming thou and the writing, I can't believe I'm saying this but it was to detailed. Like I get it he's built like a bear move on.
December 30, 2023
Absolutely love this book there's nothing Nicole Snow cant write that i wont read.
This was full of mystery and Action and fun.
Loved Grant and Ophelia. This was the perfect book for Christmas
Absolutely loved it.
If you liked to know what happens then pick up your copy today
#kbsbloggingandreviews.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This was full of mystery and Action and fun.
Loved Grant and Ophelia. This was the perfect book for Christmas
Absolutely loved it.
If you liked to know what happens then pick up your copy today
#kbsbloggingandreviews.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 2, 2024
Book and plot was good. Seemed to drag a bit in the end. Has a lot of tropes if that’s your thing.
March 20, 2024
Really enjoyed this! Spicy and mystery was there! Very similar to the other book but overall an enjoyable book!
Did Not Finish
April 1, 2026had me at grumpy x sunshine, lost me at huge age gap friends to lovers. its giving grooming. dnf rip.
January 5, 2024
I wanted to love this one...but I didn't. It's supposed to be a standalone, it didn't feel like one. I constantly felt like I was missing something. Overall, I didn't care for the flow of this book.
January 21, 2024
I’ve read several books by Nicole Snow and enjoyed them including her Hearts Edge series which in this story as is her M.O. she again manages to slip in a couple of references to that small some would say cursed Montana town. Unfortunately for me like this story’s heroine Ophelia who always seemed one step away from an emotional breakdown and is rarely certain about how she feels about anything or what to do, I had so many mixed emotions about how I felt about this book its not going to be one of my all time favorite Nicole Snow stories. None of my issues with this story were major but combined they just left me feeling a little less than thrilled with it. I’m willing to bet it gets a lot of 5 star reviews from other readers. I’m just not going to be among them.
The story opens with our female protagonist Ophelia returning to her hometown of Redhaven N.C. after a ten-year absence living in Miami where she went to college and worked as a hospice nurse until recently being laid off. It’s October so when Ophelia on her drive from the airport in Raliegh to Redhaven is forced to step out of her broken down rental car she tells us how chilly she is since she didn’t bring a jacket with her. The chill in the air and Ophelia continually forgetting to buy a warm coat is mentioned several times in this story. How if she’s constantly cold while walking around Redhaven it never reminded her to buy a coat while she’s out shivering never made sense to me. But seriously Ms. Snow you placed this story in North Carolina where the weather in October is still usually warm and comfortable, not Montana where it could already be snowing. I live on one of the Great Lakes and have a daughter who lives in N.C. She loves to tell me how pleasant the Fall weather still is down there when the temperatures up here is already hoovering around freezing just to torture me. We quickly learn that Ophelia is making her first trip home since she left for college because her mother has end stage pancreatic cancer and is fighting for her life. We also learn that the reason Ophelia left Redhaven and hasn’t been back in ten years is because after the mysterious disappearance of her older brother Ethan, who is presumed dead, she and his best friend and her childhood crush Grant Faircross got into a heated argument when she informed him she got a full ride nursing scholarship to Miami U. In his frustration over her leaving him and her family he told her to just go and never come back. So pretty much because of their argument and despite the fact that her mom and younger sister Rosalind still live in Redhaven, Ophelia has never come back. Despite the fact we learn that for Ophelia even after ten years, Miami has never felt like home. When she wants to see her mother and sister a couple of times a year she flies them down to Miami. For Ophelia and Grant’s argument to have that big an effect on how she lives her life for the next decade seemed over the top to me. And I guess ultimately that is my main problem with this book. Everything felt over the top. Ophelia’s descriptions of Grant, his of her, their descriptions of the wealthy, evil Avendell family that lords over Redfern like royalty from their mansion on a hill, and the prose that is meant to be romantic, for me just felt like too much. They’re not my favorite male protagonists but grumpy heroes seem to be Ms. Snows thing and I knew that going in. But the fact that Grant seemed incapable of verbally expressing any emotions beyond grunting is frustration and displeasure unless he was talking to Nell, was again, a bit too much for me. He was like the Hulk with body hair and minus the green skin. Even the internal monologues during the couples sex scenes seemed over the top. I mean there’s romantic and then there’s gag me! For me too often the dialogue in this book fell to the latter. Maybe it’s a guy thing? And even though these two eventually become lovers and acknowledge they’ve been crushing on each other since they were children, neither is willing to say I love you or talk about a future together. Grant can’t seem to be able to tell Ophelia he wants her to stay with him forever and Ophelia can’t seem to be able to tell Grant she wants to be with him forever. Even though now in her late twenties Ophelia is living her life long dream of being with Grant she doesn’t seem sure that being with him is what she wants for her long term future. Say what? And let me talk about the age gap portion of this story for a moment. It seems a bit fluid, but from what I can tell there’s about a ten-year age gap between Grant and Ophelia. Which makes it hard for me to believe that when they were kids Ophelia spent much of her time tagging along with her much older brother and his BFF rather than her sister Ros whom she was much closer in age to. Even if she could keep up, how many 14 year old boys would allow their 4 year old little sister to constantly hang out with them? And if it is a ten year age gap the idea of a much older Grant crushing on his BFF’s little sister is just Yuck! I have no problems with an almost 40 year old Grant and an almost 30 year old Ophelia getting together. But a 26 year old Grant having romantic feelings for a 16 year old Ophelia even if he never acted upon them, just No. Then there’s Nell, Grant’s 10 year old cousin whom he’s raised as his daughter since her parents died in the fire he rescued her from. Everyone just loves Nell who is too cute, too smart and in some ways too wise for her age. But when she misbehaves nobody corrects her. It’s just Nell being Nell. “Oh Nell, you slipped out of the house in the middle of the night and ran away again! Let’s reward you by taking you out for ice cream!” Really?
As I said at the start I didn’t especially love this book but that doesn’t mean you won’t. It’s my review so I can only give you my thoughts on it positive or negative. It’s got all the components necessary for a good contemporary romance. The main protagonists are fairly likable. Grant is caring and heroic. Ophelia is caring and sweet and ultimately heroic. There’s definitely romance and steamy sex and relationship drama and a bit of danger and of course a H.E.A. So take my review with a grain of salt and form your own opinions.
The story opens with our female protagonist Ophelia returning to her hometown of Redhaven N.C. after a ten-year absence living in Miami where she went to college and worked as a hospice nurse until recently being laid off. It’s October so when Ophelia on her drive from the airport in Raliegh to Redhaven is forced to step out of her broken down rental car she tells us how chilly she is since she didn’t bring a jacket with her. The chill in the air and Ophelia continually forgetting to buy a warm coat is mentioned several times in this story. How if she’s constantly cold while walking around Redhaven it never reminded her to buy a coat while she’s out shivering never made sense to me. But seriously Ms. Snow you placed this story in North Carolina where the weather in October is still usually warm and comfortable, not Montana where it could already be snowing. I live on one of the Great Lakes and have a daughter who lives in N.C. She loves to tell me how pleasant the Fall weather still is down there when the temperatures up here is already hoovering around freezing just to torture me. We quickly learn that Ophelia is making her first trip home since she left for college because her mother has end stage pancreatic cancer and is fighting for her life. We also learn that the reason Ophelia left Redhaven and hasn’t been back in ten years is because after the mysterious disappearance of her older brother Ethan, who is presumed dead, she and his best friend and her childhood crush Grant Faircross got into a heated argument when she informed him she got a full ride nursing scholarship to Miami U. In his frustration over her leaving him and her family he told her to just go and never come back. So pretty much because of their argument and despite the fact that her mom and younger sister Rosalind still live in Redhaven, Ophelia has never come back. Despite the fact we learn that for Ophelia even after ten years, Miami has never felt like home. When she wants to see her mother and sister a couple of times a year she flies them down to Miami. For Ophelia and Grant’s argument to have that big an effect on how she lives her life for the next decade seemed over the top to me. And I guess ultimately that is my main problem with this book. Everything felt over the top. Ophelia’s descriptions of Grant, his of her, their descriptions of the wealthy, evil Avendell family that lords over Redfern like royalty from their mansion on a hill, and the prose that is meant to be romantic, for me just felt like too much. They’re not my favorite male protagonists but grumpy heroes seem to be Ms. Snows thing and I knew that going in. But the fact that Grant seemed incapable of verbally expressing any emotions beyond grunting is frustration and displeasure unless he was talking to Nell, was again, a bit too much for me. He was like the Hulk with body hair and minus the green skin. Even the internal monologues during the couples sex scenes seemed over the top. I mean there’s romantic and then there’s gag me! For me too often the dialogue in this book fell to the latter. Maybe it’s a guy thing? And even though these two eventually become lovers and acknowledge they’ve been crushing on each other since they were children, neither is willing to say I love you or talk about a future together. Grant can’t seem to be able to tell Ophelia he wants her to stay with him forever and Ophelia can’t seem to be able to tell Grant she wants to be with him forever. Even though now in her late twenties Ophelia is living her life long dream of being with Grant she doesn’t seem sure that being with him is what she wants for her long term future. Say what? And let me talk about the age gap portion of this story for a moment. It seems a bit fluid, but from what I can tell there’s about a ten-year age gap between Grant and Ophelia. Which makes it hard for me to believe that when they were kids Ophelia spent much of her time tagging along with her much older brother and his BFF rather than her sister Ros whom she was much closer in age to. Even if she could keep up, how many 14 year old boys would allow their 4 year old little sister to constantly hang out with them? And if it is a ten year age gap the idea of a much older Grant crushing on his BFF’s little sister is just Yuck! I have no problems with an almost 40 year old Grant and an almost 30 year old Ophelia getting together. But a 26 year old Grant having romantic feelings for a 16 year old Ophelia even if he never acted upon them, just No. Then there’s Nell, Grant’s 10 year old cousin whom he’s raised as his daughter since her parents died in the fire he rescued her from. Everyone just loves Nell who is too cute, too smart and in some ways too wise for her age. But when she misbehaves nobody corrects her. It’s just Nell being Nell. “Oh Nell, you slipped out of the house in the middle of the night and ran away again! Let’s reward you by taking you out for ice cream!” Really?
As I said at the start I didn’t especially love this book but that doesn’t mean you won’t. It’s my review so I can only give you my thoughts on it positive or negative. It’s got all the components necessary for a good contemporary romance. The main protagonists are fairly likable. Grant is caring and heroic. Ophelia is caring and sweet and ultimately heroic. There’s definitely romance and steamy sex and relationship drama and a bit of danger and of course a H.E.A. So take my review with a grain of salt and form your own opinions.
December 22, 2023
Grant & Ophelia's Steamy Brother's Best Friend Romance Is Fueled By Years Of Suppressed Feelings! Their Smalltown Story Is Full Of Mystery, Danger, & Suspense As Redhaven Is Faced With A Yet Another Death Under Questionable Circumstances. Don’t Forget To Download The Free Flash Forward Via The Link At The Back Of The Book!
This is book two of the Men of Redhaven series. It is Grant and Ophelia's story. It follows book one, The Broken Protector, which was Lucas and Delilah's fiery romance set amidst the mystery of a smalltown serial killer. Both books are standalones, but to fully appreciate the story of Redhaven as it unfolds, you are best off reading the series in order.
Redhaven, North Carolina is a sleepy town that proves to be full of surprises. It is home to the world-reknown Arrandell family, whose wealth, history, impeccable gothic style, celebrity ties, and philanthropic efforts have helped to elevate the town to a tourist destination. The population grows in season, and the tourists bring more to keep the small police department busy, but otherwise the law enforcement officers don't have much going on. Lieutenant Lucas Grant, however, never gave up on finding out what happened to his sister Celeste, whose disappearance almost twenty years ago rocked the small town. With a history of missing women surrounding the powerful Arrendell family and dead bodies showing up in town, it began to be evident that there is a resident serial killer in Redhaven. Lucas's dedication paid off a few months ago when the youngest Arrandell son, Ulysses, was arrested, and the mystery of Celeste's disappearance and was solved. There remain loose ends and unanswered questions, however.
Captan Grant Faircross, thirty-nine, is a man of few words. His imposing size and gruff personality demand respect. He has always had difficulty expressing his feelings, but a certain little girl named Nell has him wrapped around her finger. Grant is still searching for justice for his best friend. Ethan had been in love with Celeste, so when they both disappeared on the same night nearly twenty years ago, smalltown gossips were quick to assign blame on him. Recent revelations prove Ethan was not responsible for killing Celeste, and yet his disappearance remains a mystery. Grant hopes his friend just skipped town, but his gut tells him otherwise. Ulysses Arrandell might not be to blame, but the whole family leaves a bad taste in his mouth. So when an Arrandell staff member commits suicide, once again illustrating the troubling atmosphere associated with the family, Grant is determined to get answers.
Ophelia Sanderson, twenty-eight, has avoided Redhaven since leaving home ten years ago. She got a full ride scholarship to nursing school in Florida and never looked back. She made a life for herself, but somehow she couldn't shake the feeling that Redhaven was still home to her. With her recent layoff and news that her mother's cancer had returned, fate seemed determined to pull her back. She knew avoiding Grant in their small town would be impossible, but she hoped to delay the inevitable as long as possible. He tore her heart out before she left town, and it still hurts. He had been best friends with her older brother Ethan and had stuck by her family in their loss. She and Grant were the last two to hold onto hope that Ethan's disappearance would be solved, and he blamed her for giving up and leaving town. She just needed some time away from the gossip and rumors, and some space to find herself, but Grant's words had pushed her even further away.
When Ophelia returns to Redhaven, she finds that not much has changed. At the same time, she feels like a stranger - especially when she discovers that Grant remains close with her family and is raising a ten-year-old. To her surprise, he took on the spunky girl years ago when he saved her from the fire that took his aunt and uncle's lives. He is technically Nell's cousin, but she calls him her uncle and almost-dad. Seeing Grant's affection for the girl is startling, because before she left town, Ophelia would have done anything to get him to open up. Despite her better instincts, seeing this new side of Grant brings back the feelings for him that she tried so hard to overcome. She doesn't trust herself not to get swept up into hope that he might return her feelings, but soon circumstances throw them together and all their walls come down.
When Ophelia looks like she might become Redhaven's next victim, Grant will stop at nothing to protect her. He never got over losing her before, and he won't let this chance for redemption slip away. There is danger as more questions open up and they give into temptation. The pair has to reconcile their past and face their problems, but they eventually earn a very happy ending.
Don't forget to download the free flash forward via the link at the back of the book!
The story closes with new unanswered questions about the Arrandell family and Redhaven, so watch for book three to follow. There are hints that it might follow Ophelia's little sister, Rosalind Sanderson.
Wow! Grant and Ophelia's story is a thriller that keeps you guessing. Fans will delight to find several crossover references to other books by the author. This isn't quite as dark as book one, but it is filled with mystery, suspense, and all the same dynamics between the hero and heroine that fans expect. There are light-hearted moments and tears alike. Grant and Ophelia's brother's best friend match is decades in the making, but their slow burn is very fulfilling. The town of Redhaven still has its problems, and although this story is a standalone, it looks like it will take a few more books to unravel it all.
Grant and Ophelia's smalltown story is full of mystery, danger, and suspense as Redhaven is faced with yet another death under questionable circumstances. The couple's steamy romance is fueled by years of suppressed feelings. Their story is about loss, acceptance, and facing fears. It is also about seeking justice. It is well written and plot-driven. It is complex and layered. The characters are well-defined and intriguing. The story is written in first person. The POV alternates between Grant and Ophelia. I rate this book five stars.
I received an advance copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is book two of the Men of Redhaven series. It is Grant and Ophelia's story. It follows book one, The Broken Protector, which was Lucas and Delilah's fiery romance set amidst the mystery of a smalltown serial killer. Both books are standalones, but to fully appreciate the story of Redhaven as it unfolds, you are best off reading the series in order.
Redhaven, North Carolina is a sleepy town that proves to be full of surprises. It is home to the world-reknown Arrandell family, whose wealth, history, impeccable gothic style, celebrity ties, and philanthropic efforts have helped to elevate the town to a tourist destination. The population grows in season, and the tourists bring more to keep the small police department busy, but otherwise the law enforcement officers don't have much going on. Lieutenant Lucas Grant, however, never gave up on finding out what happened to his sister Celeste, whose disappearance almost twenty years ago rocked the small town. With a history of missing women surrounding the powerful Arrendell family and dead bodies showing up in town, it began to be evident that there is a resident serial killer in Redhaven. Lucas's dedication paid off a few months ago when the youngest Arrandell son, Ulysses, was arrested, and the mystery of Celeste's disappearance and was solved. There remain loose ends and unanswered questions, however.
Captan Grant Faircross, thirty-nine, is a man of few words. His imposing size and gruff personality demand respect. He has always had difficulty expressing his feelings, but a certain little girl named Nell has him wrapped around her finger. Grant is still searching for justice for his best friend. Ethan had been in love with Celeste, so when they both disappeared on the same night nearly twenty years ago, smalltown gossips were quick to assign blame on him. Recent revelations prove Ethan was not responsible for killing Celeste, and yet his disappearance remains a mystery. Grant hopes his friend just skipped town, but his gut tells him otherwise. Ulysses Arrandell might not be to blame, but the whole family leaves a bad taste in his mouth. So when an Arrandell staff member commits suicide, once again illustrating the troubling atmosphere associated with the family, Grant is determined to get answers.
Ophelia Sanderson, twenty-eight, has avoided Redhaven since leaving home ten years ago. She got a full ride scholarship to nursing school in Florida and never looked back. She made a life for herself, but somehow she couldn't shake the feeling that Redhaven was still home to her. With her recent layoff and news that her mother's cancer had returned, fate seemed determined to pull her back. She knew avoiding Grant in their small town would be impossible, but she hoped to delay the inevitable as long as possible. He tore her heart out before she left town, and it still hurts. He had been best friends with her older brother Ethan and had stuck by her family in their loss. She and Grant were the last two to hold onto hope that Ethan's disappearance would be solved, and he blamed her for giving up and leaving town. She just needed some time away from the gossip and rumors, and some space to find herself, but Grant's words had pushed her even further away.
When Ophelia returns to Redhaven, she finds that not much has changed. At the same time, she feels like a stranger - especially when she discovers that Grant remains close with her family and is raising a ten-year-old. To her surprise, he took on the spunky girl years ago when he saved her from the fire that took his aunt and uncle's lives. He is technically Nell's cousin, but she calls him her uncle and almost-dad. Seeing Grant's affection for the girl is startling, because before she left town, Ophelia would have done anything to get him to open up. Despite her better instincts, seeing this new side of Grant brings back the feelings for him that she tried so hard to overcome. She doesn't trust herself not to get swept up into hope that he might return her feelings, but soon circumstances throw them together and all their walls come down.
When Ophelia looks like she might become Redhaven's next victim, Grant will stop at nothing to protect her. He never got over losing her before, and he won't let this chance for redemption slip away. There is danger as more questions open up and they give into temptation. The pair has to reconcile their past and face their problems, but they eventually earn a very happy ending.
Don't forget to download the free flash forward via the link at the back of the book!
The story closes with new unanswered questions about the Arrandell family and Redhaven, so watch for book three to follow. There are hints that it might follow Ophelia's little sister, Rosalind Sanderson.
Wow! Grant and Ophelia's story is a thriller that keeps you guessing. Fans will delight to find several crossover references to other books by the author. This isn't quite as dark as book one, but it is filled with mystery, suspense, and all the same dynamics between the hero and heroine that fans expect. There are light-hearted moments and tears alike. Grant and Ophelia's brother's best friend match is decades in the making, but their slow burn is very fulfilling. The town of Redhaven still has its problems, and although this story is a standalone, it looks like it will take a few more books to unravel it all.
Grant and Ophelia's smalltown story is full of mystery, danger, and suspense as Redhaven is faced with yet another death under questionable circumstances. The couple's steamy romance is fueled by years of suppressed feelings. Their story is about loss, acceptance, and facing fears. It is also about seeking justice. It is well written and plot-driven. It is complex and layered. The characters are well-defined and intriguing. The story is written in first person. The POV alternates between Grant and Ophelia. I rate this book five stars.
I received an advance copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 18, 2023
At eighteen Ophelia left Redhaven in her rearview, hoping never to return, now she is back to care for her mother. There's a lot going on in Ophelia's life right now. Her mother is gravely ill, it looks as though her sister is about to make a huge mistake and there still isn't closure about what happened to her brother Ethan. When Ethan disappeared, she also lost Grant.
Captain Grant Faircross has seen a lot of bad stuff happen in Redhaven, most of it involving the Arrendell family. There's been another fatality at the mansion that needs his full attention, but now that Ophelia is back in town he's finding it hard to stay on task. When Ophelia is in danger, Grant's protective instinct kicks into high gear and feelings become uncontrollable. Maybe if he can solve the death at the Arrendell mansion, he can move on to solving the mystery of what really happened to his best friend Ethan with Ophelia by his side.
Oh My Gawd!!! This book was amazing!!! Big, burly grump carrying a torch for his little butterfly💕 I loved it so much!!! As with all Nicole's characters, Grant and Ophelia came to life and kept me turning the pages in anticipation! This was an absolutely, fantastic read, and I highly recommend this book!!!
Captain Grant Faircross has seen a lot of bad stuff happen in Redhaven, most of it involving the Arrendell family. There's been another fatality at the mansion that needs his full attention, but now that Ophelia is back in town he's finding it hard to stay on task. When Ophelia is in danger, Grant's protective instinct kicks into high gear and feelings become uncontrollable. Maybe if he can solve the death at the Arrendell mansion, he can move on to solving the mystery of what really happened to his best friend Ethan with Ophelia by his side.
Oh My Gawd!!! This book was amazing!!! Big, burly grump carrying a torch for his little butterfly💕 I loved it so much!!! As with all Nicole's characters, Grant and Ophelia came to life and kept me turning the pages in anticipation! This was an absolutely, fantastic read, and I highly recommend this book!!!
February 5, 2024
Could be better.
I would've enjoyed this so much more if the book had actually been focused on the story versus the words the author put onto paper.
Much like the first book, it's overly wordy and melodramatic.
A solid 100 pages could be cut out without losing anything.
At minimum.
It doesn't help when the author fails to remember what constitutes a paragraph.
Because everything is on a separate line to add *gravity* and *suspense*.
Sometimes the metaphors and descriptions get so out of hand it becomes ridiculous.
See how dumb this is? It's absolutely okay here and there to add effect, but when your entire book is written like everything you're saying is supposed to be
so
important
to the narrative
when it most assuredly *isn't*
that the effect is lost entirely.
And the wordiness? We don't need 5 pages to describe a kiss, for god's sake.
It takes something like 10% of the book to describe their date and the night after... and the date itself was maybe 3% of that.
Trim the fat.
More is not always better.
That being said, I liked Grant and Ophelia. I liked how honest they were with each other. I liked the story and the suspense, even if the big secret was easy to guess.
I would've enjoyed this so much more if the book had actually been focused on the story versus the words the author put onto paper.
Much like the first book, it's overly wordy and melodramatic.
A solid 100 pages could be cut out without losing anything.
At minimum.
It doesn't help when the author fails to remember what constitutes a paragraph.
Because everything is on a separate line to add *gravity* and *suspense*.
Sometimes the metaphors and descriptions get so out of hand it becomes ridiculous.
See how dumb this is? It's absolutely okay here and there to add effect, but when your entire book is written like everything you're saying is supposed to be
so
important
to the narrative
when it most assuredly *isn't*
that the effect is lost entirely.
And the wordiness? We don't need 5 pages to describe a kiss, for god's sake.
It takes something like 10% of the book to describe their date and the night after... and the date itself was maybe 3% of that.
Trim the fat.
More is not always better.
That being said, I liked Grant and Ophelia. I liked how honest they were with each other. I liked the story and the suspense, even if the big secret was easy to guess.
December 14, 2023
The Sweetest Obsession is an unputdownable, suspense filled, steamy romance!
Grant is a growly bear of a man with a heart of gold. He's raising his little cousin as his daughter while keeping his town safe as the police captain. I love his obsession with Ophelia. They were friends in the past who both hid their true feelings for one another. When she comes back to town, they tip toe around each other until she's threatened. Grant is super protective of both her and his daughter, Nell. The way they fall in love was so beautiful. I love how they truly see each other and how they just fit. And Nell is hilarious and wise beyond her years.
The suspense and the twists in this story are amazing! You can't help but read it on one sitting because you'll need all the answers! It kept me on my toes!
I received an ARC for an honest review.
Grant is a growly bear of a man with a heart of gold. He's raising his little cousin as his daughter while keeping his town safe as the police captain. I love his obsession with Ophelia. They were friends in the past who both hid their true feelings for one another. When she comes back to town, they tip toe around each other until she's threatened. Grant is super protective of both her and his daughter, Nell. The way they fall in love was so beautiful. I love how they truly see each other and how they just fit. And Nell is hilarious and wise beyond her years.
The suspense and the twists in this story are amazing! You can't help but read it on one sitting because you'll need all the answers! It kept me on my toes!
I received an ARC for an honest review.
March 13, 2024
Well, I already knew what the plot would be with all the "green eyes" references since page one. Nonetheless, it was a good read. I love small town romances but putting some thrill and mystery to it without losing the cozy vibes, well I'm here for it.
As for the "steamy" description for this book, I beg to disagree. I'd say it's intimate or slow burn of making love—I've read a lot of steamy and spicy books and trust me, they aren't poetic while having sex.
As for the "steamy" description for this book, I beg to disagree. I'd say it's intimate or slow burn of making love—I've read a lot of steamy and spicy books and trust me, they aren't poetic while having sex.
April 6, 2024
I stayed up all night reading this one. It definitely grabbed my attention and held on until the very end. The writing style took me a while to get used to it.
I was not expecting the suspense, intrigue, danger, and a certain level of darkness thrown into the mix.
The one thing that I didn't care for was how much time Grant and Ophelia seemed to spend in their heads. I am not sure what you call it. Thought conversations? Silently talking to yourself? Idk. They did it so much, I found it to be slightly irritating.
I also didn't realize there was a book preceding this one until I was well into this book, but that's on me. I'm glad everyone got their HEA.
I voluntarily read and reviewed the Advanced Reader Copy of this book received via Booksprout.
I was not expecting the suspense, intrigue, danger, and a certain level of darkness thrown into the mix.
The one thing that I didn't care for was how much time Grant and Ophelia seemed to spend in their heads. I am not sure what you call it. Thought conversations? Silently talking to yourself? Idk. They did it so much, I found it to be slightly irritating.
I also didn't realize there was a book preceding this one until I was well into this book, but that's on me. I'm glad everyone got their HEA.
I voluntarily read and reviewed the Advanced Reader Copy of this book received via Booksprout.
December 16, 2023
THE SWEETEST OBSESSION is the kind of second chance romance where two young people had a foolish misunderstanding to separate them until something compelling forced the one that left to return home.
Grant is a man of few words, the local police Captain, and has a heart of gold. Ophelia returns to town to her family in crisis, a stalker, and only feels safe with the man she never stopped loving.
It doesn’t take a lot of time for the couple to get together, but they do get in their own way thinking they need to make some selfless sacrifice for the other.
There is spicy romance, suspense, and mystery to keep the reader turning the pages.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Grant is a man of few words, the local police Captain, and has a heart of gold. Ophelia returns to town to her family in crisis, a stalker, and only feels safe with the man she never stopped loving.
It doesn’t take a lot of time for the couple to get together, but they do get in their own way thinking they need to make some selfless sacrifice for the other.
There is spicy romance, suspense, and mystery to keep the reader turning the pages.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 16, 2023
This hit all the great tropes and kept me on the edge of my seat from start to finish. Grant and Ophelia are given a second chance at seeing what could have been after Ophelia left their small town ten years ago after her brother Ethan's mysterious disappearance.
Grant is now a pseudo dad, looking after his little cousin Nell and this grumpy police chief will stop at nothing to discover what happen to his best friend Ethan and if it's connected to the creepy rich family in town The Arrandells who are all a little NQR for my liking. There was the perfect blend of suspense and drama with some murder mystery thrown in, it felt a little darker than her usual stories, but I loved every minute just the same. A fantastic read from start to finish.
Grant is now a pseudo dad, looking after his little cousin Nell and this grumpy police chief will stop at nothing to discover what happen to his best friend Ethan and if it's connected to the creepy rich family in town The Arrandells who are all a little NQR for my liking. There was the perfect blend of suspense and drama with some murder mystery thrown in, it felt a little darker than her usual stories, but I loved every minute just the same. A fantastic read from start to finish.
January 24, 2024
ugh! i loved this book! i’m so happy i took a chance on it after i read the first book in this series, the broken protector. i liked lucas and delilah’s story for the most part; but im sorry - grant and ophelia are the BEST. this book has the best blend of suspense and romance — this book had me like “wtf?” dozens of times. it had me crying, seething, hyperventilating or keeling over from cuteness at all different times. the spice 🌶️ wasn’t forced, and i enjoyed it so much bc it’s a second chance romance but they never hooked up before. ugh, so cute. 🥹
heads up: this book definitely has romance, but the overarching plot was definitely more of a mystery/suspense/thriller. and i REALLY liked it. the way grant and ophelia’s relationship also ties its way into redhaven’s chaos; it all connects in the end. their romance is realistic to me within the context of this plot, bc there’s so much history. so much pain, and loss.
OK. first things first: the family of villians in this series were wild and out of a film noir. dude, what the f**k is up with the arrendell’s? oddest family of characters i’ve ever read; from their clothing descriptions, the way they talk, the things they do and their relationship with the townies of redhaven. the description of their mansion also makes me think of the Goth family from playing The Sims, or the addams family. I NEED AN ARRENDELL BOOK!!!!!! i love villian origin stories. this family is so f**ked up; murder, incest, orgies, decades of possible sexual grooming and assault, more money than God it seems. are they vampires? are they immortal? when i was reading both books i genuinely thought for a hot min that they were vampires or time travelers or something, and that was the mystery lmao. but no it was not, though i’m still not convinced 🤔
anyways.
our leading lady, ophelia sanderson, comes home to redhaven to watch over her mother who has cancer. ophelia is Ethan’s brother, who was mentioned in the broken protector. he was in love with lucas’ sister, Celeste, who the arrendell’s son killed. he disappeared the same night as her, but they never found his body. we come to learn that ophelia left for college in miami ten years ago and never came back, until the start of the book. she’s nervous, both bc of the ghost of her brothers unexplained disappearance looming over her AND having to see ethan’s best friend again, grant. ophelia internally admits that she was always head over heels for grant, but the last time they saw each other they got into a nasty fight and they havent spoke since. ophelia settles into her childhood home, but in true redhaven style, is quickly harassed and attacked by a bizarre zombie-like man wearing a butler’s uniform who yells “YOU’RE NEXT!” at her. of course, grant is the one who takes the police call, and the rest is history.
i really enjoyed ophelia’s character. soooo much better than delilah’s (don’t hate me 😭). she’s well-rounded; caring, kind and smart. throughout the book, ophelia is faced with very difficult obstacles and her decisions make sense for someone in her position. she puts her family first always. i loved her organic relationship progression with grant, there’s so much chemistry from the get go. its so cute how they both were obsessed with each other, but both were too stubborn to admit it and make a move.
grant faircross, our main man, is the police captain of redhaven and the best friend of ethan sanderson; ophelia’s missing brother. grant has no patience for BS, he’s not emotional and is typically grumpy af. after ethan’s disappearance, and ophelia leaving for college; he became emotionally stagnant, he leveled up the ranks in the redhaven police but he was still empty. his sibling had a daughter, nell, but both parents died in a house fire. grant took up the responsibility of being “dad.” when ophelia comes back to town, he’s hit with memories and feelings like a ten-ton truck. slowly, they weave their way back into each others lives and hearts; regardless of redhavens weirdness.
ugh, i’m sorry but he’s so much better than lucas. his aversion to the world and his bitterness MAKES SENSE. he’s had so much grief in his life that i can totally see how that would emotionally break someone into trying to remain numb. i love his innate love and dedication to nell, and to ophelia. he’s a typical man’s man, but not in a cringy way. he’s not out punching people left and right, acting tough just bc they’re a man who talks to ophelia. he’s brooding, but has a kind heart and we see that from the very beginning as readers. honestly, he is one of my new fav MMCs. 💝
the twist at the end of this book caught me soooo off guard! touche, author ! it all tied together pretty well. i enjoyed the ending too; so heartfelt and cute, and very much “grant and ophelia.” 🥹
hoping for more books in this series!!! (aka a book on the Arrendell’s)
💗💗💗
𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
𝐬𝐩𝐢𝐜𝐞: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐬: second chance, grumpy x sunshine
💗💗💗
💭𝘪’𝘮 𝘢 𝘭𝘪𝘤𝘦𝘯𝘴𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘢𝘱𝘪𝘴𝘵, 𝘴𝘰 𝘪 𝘵𝘦𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘰 𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘳-𝘢𝘯𝘢𝘭𝘺𝘻𝘦 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘪𝘯 𝘮𝘺 𝘭𝘪𝘧𝘦—𝘪𝘯𝘤𝘭𝘶𝘥𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘣𝘰𝘰𝘬𝘴 𝘰𝘧 𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘬𝘪𝘯𝘥. 𝘮𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘢𝘭 𝘪𝘭𝘭𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘳𝘢𝘶𝘮𝘢 𝘩𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘣𝘦𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘦 𝘴𝘰 𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘮𝘰𝘯 𝘪𝘯 𝘭𝘪𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘢𝘵𝘶𝘳𝘦 𝘯𝘰𝘸𝘢𝘥𝘢𝘺𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘪 𝘸𝘢𝘯𝘵 𝘵𝘰 𝘰𝘧𝘧𝘦𝘳 𝘢 𝘶𝘯𝘪𝘲𝘶𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘢𝘱𝘪𝘴𝘵-𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘥𝘦𝘳 𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘴𝘱𝘦𝘤𝘵𝘪𝘷𝘦 𝘪𝘯 𝘮𝘺 𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘪𝘦𝘸𝘴. 𝘰𝘣𝘷, 𝘮𝘺 𝘰𝘱𝘪𝘯𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘴 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘮𝘺 𝘰𝘸𝘯. 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘪’𝘮 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘫𝘶𝘴𝘵 𝘢 𝘳𝘰𝘣𝘰𝘵 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘢 𝘥𝘦𝘨𝘳𝘦𝘦. 𝘪’𝘮 𝘢 𝘩𝘶𝘮𝘢𝘯 𝘸𝘩𝘰 𝘩𝘢𝘴 𝘮𝘺 𝘰𝘸𝘯 𝘣𝘢𝘨𝘨𝘢𝘨𝘦…𝘴𝘰 𝘪 𝘸𝘢𝘯𝘵 𝘵𝘰 𝘣𝘦 𝘢𝘴 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘭 𝘢𝘴 𝘱𝘰𝘴𝘴𝘪𝘣𝘭𝘦. 𝘵𝘰 𝘣𝘰𝘵𝘩 𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘵𝘦𝘤𝘵 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘥𝘦𝘳𝘴 𝘴𝘵𝘳𝘶𝘨𝘨𝘭𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘈𝘕𝘋 𝘵𝘰 𝘢𝘭𝘴𝘰 𝘰𝘧𝘧𝘦𝘳 𝘢 𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘧𝘦𝘴𝘴𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘢𝘭 𝘷𝘪𝘦𝘸𝘱𝘰𝘪𝘯𝘵. 𝘪’𝘷𝘦 𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘦 𝘵𝘰 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘭𝘪𝘻𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘮𝘢𝘯𝘺 𝘢𝘶𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘳𝘴 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘶𝘯𝘦𝘥𝘶𝘤𝘢𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘢𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘭𝘪𝘵𝘺 𝘰𝘧 𝘩𝘰𝘸 𝘢 𝘮𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘺 𝘪𝘭𝘭 𝘰𝘳 𝘵𝘳𝘢𝘶𝘮𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘻𝘦𝘥 𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘴𝘰𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘬𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘢𝘤𝘵𝘴. 𝘪𝘯𝘢𝘤𝘤𝘶𝘳𝘢𝘵𝘦 𝘱𝘰𝘳𝘵𝘳𝘢𝘺𝘢𝘭𝘴 𝘤𝘢𝘯 𝘣𝘦 𝘱𝘳𝘦𝘵𝘵𝘺 𝘥𝘢𝘮𝘢𝘨𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘤𝘢𝘯 𝘢𝘭𝘴𝘰 𝘴𝘱𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘥 𝘮𝘪𝘴𝘪𝘯𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘮𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯, 𝘸𝘩𝘪𝘤𝘩 𝘪𝘴 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘨𝘰𝘰𝘥 𝘢𝘵 𝘢𝘭𝘭.
𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙣𝙠 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙨𝙩𝙞𝙘𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙖𝙧𝙤𝙪𝙣𝙙 & 𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙙𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙢𝙮 𝙧𝙖𝙢𝙗𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙚𝙣𝙙 💗✨
heads up: this book definitely has romance, but the overarching plot was definitely more of a mystery/suspense/thriller. and i REALLY liked it. the way grant and ophelia’s relationship also ties its way into redhaven’s chaos; it all connects in the end. their romance is realistic to me within the context of this plot, bc there’s so much history. so much pain, and loss.
OK. first things first: the family of villians in this series were wild and out of a film noir. dude, what the f**k is up with the arrendell’s? oddest family of characters i’ve ever read; from their clothing descriptions, the way they talk, the things they do and their relationship with the townies of redhaven. the description of their mansion also makes me think of the Goth family from playing The Sims, or the addams family. I NEED AN ARRENDELL BOOK!!!!!! i love villian origin stories. this family is so f**ked up; murder, incest, orgies, decades of possible sexual grooming and assault, more money than God it seems. are they vampires? are they immortal? when i was reading both books i genuinely thought for a hot min that they were vampires or time travelers or something, and that was the mystery lmao. but no it was not, though i’m still not convinced 🤔
anyways.
our leading lady, ophelia sanderson, comes home to redhaven to watch over her mother who has cancer. ophelia is Ethan’s brother, who was mentioned in the broken protector. he was in love with lucas’ sister, Celeste, who the arrendell’s son killed. he disappeared the same night as her, but they never found his body. we come to learn that ophelia left for college in miami ten years ago and never came back, until the start of the book. she’s nervous, both bc of the ghost of her brothers unexplained disappearance looming over her AND having to see ethan’s best friend again, grant. ophelia internally admits that she was always head over heels for grant, but the last time they saw each other they got into a nasty fight and they havent spoke since. ophelia settles into her childhood home, but in true redhaven style, is quickly harassed and attacked by a bizarre zombie-like man wearing a butler’s uniform who yells “YOU’RE NEXT!” at her. of course, grant is the one who takes the police call, and the rest is history.
i really enjoyed ophelia’s character. soooo much better than delilah’s (don’t hate me 😭). she’s well-rounded; caring, kind and smart. throughout the book, ophelia is faced with very difficult obstacles and her decisions make sense for someone in her position. she puts her family first always. i loved her organic relationship progression with grant, there’s so much chemistry from the get go. its so cute how they both were obsessed with each other, but both were too stubborn to admit it and make a move.
grant faircross, our main man, is the police captain of redhaven and the best friend of ethan sanderson; ophelia’s missing brother. grant has no patience for BS, he’s not emotional and is typically grumpy af. after ethan’s disappearance, and ophelia leaving for college; he became emotionally stagnant, he leveled up the ranks in the redhaven police but he was still empty. his sibling had a daughter, nell, but both parents died in a house fire. grant took up the responsibility of being “dad.” when ophelia comes back to town, he’s hit with memories and feelings like a ten-ton truck. slowly, they weave their way back into each others lives and hearts; regardless of redhavens weirdness.
ugh, i’m sorry but he’s so much better than lucas. his aversion to the world and his bitterness MAKES SENSE. he’s had so much grief in his life that i can totally see how that would emotionally break someone into trying to remain numb. i love his innate love and dedication to nell, and to ophelia. he’s a typical man’s man, but not in a cringy way. he’s not out punching people left and right, acting tough just bc they’re a man who talks to ophelia. he’s brooding, but has a kind heart and we see that from the very beginning as readers. honestly, he is one of my new fav MMCs. 💝
the twist at the end of this book caught me soooo off guard! touche, author ! it all tied together pretty well. i enjoyed the ending too; so heartfelt and cute, and very much “grant and ophelia.” 🥹
hoping for more books in this series!!! (aka a book on the Arrendell’s)
💗💗💗
𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
𝐬𝐩𝐢𝐜𝐞: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐬: second chance, grumpy x sunshine
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💭𝘪’𝘮 𝘢 𝘭𝘪𝘤𝘦𝘯𝘴𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘢𝘱𝘪𝘴𝘵, 𝘴𝘰 𝘪 𝘵𝘦𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘰 𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘳-𝘢𝘯𝘢𝘭𝘺𝘻𝘦 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘪𝘯 𝘮𝘺 𝘭𝘪𝘧𝘦—𝘪𝘯𝘤𝘭𝘶𝘥𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘣𝘰𝘰𝘬𝘴 𝘰𝘧 𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘬𝘪𝘯𝘥. 𝘮𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘢𝘭 𝘪𝘭𝘭𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘳𝘢𝘶𝘮𝘢 𝘩𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘣𝘦𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘦 𝘴𝘰 𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘮𝘰𝘯 𝘪𝘯 𝘭𝘪𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘢𝘵𝘶𝘳𝘦 𝘯𝘰𝘸𝘢𝘥𝘢𝘺𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘪 𝘸𝘢𝘯𝘵 𝘵𝘰 𝘰𝘧𝘧𝘦𝘳 𝘢 𝘶𝘯𝘪𝘲𝘶𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘢𝘱𝘪𝘴𝘵-𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘥𝘦𝘳 𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘴𝘱𝘦𝘤𝘵𝘪𝘷𝘦 𝘪𝘯 𝘮𝘺 𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘪𝘦𝘸𝘴. 𝘰𝘣𝘷, 𝘮𝘺 𝘰𝘱𝘪𝘯𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘴 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘮𝘺 𝘰𝘸𝘯. 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘪’𝘮 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘫𝘶𝘴𝘵 𝘢 𝘳𝘰𝘣𝘰𝘵 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘢 𝘥𝘦𝘨𝘳𝘦𝘦. 𝘪’𝘮 𝘢 𝘩𝘶𝘮𝘢𝘯 𝘸𝘩𝘰 𝘩𝘢𝘴 𝘮𝘺 𝘰𝘸𝘯 𝘣𝘢𝘨𝘨𝘢𝘨𝘦…𝘴𝘰 𝘪 𝘸𝘢𝘯𝘵 𝘵𝘰 𝘣𝘦 𝘢𝘴 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘭 𝘢𝘴 𝘱𝘰𝘴𝘴𝘪𝘣𝘭𝘦. 𝘵𝘰 𝘣𝘰𝘵𝘩 𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘵𝘦𝘤𝘵 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘥𝘦𝘳𝘴 𝘴𝘵𝘳𝘶𝘨𝘨𝘭𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘈𝘕𝘋 𝘵𝘰 𝘢𝘭𝘴𝘰 𝘰𝘧𝘧𝘦𝘳 𝘢 𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘧𝘦𝘴𝘴𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘢𝘭 𝘷𝘪𝘦𝘸𝘱𝘰𝘪𝘯𝘵. 𝘪’𝘷𝘦 𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘦 𝘵𝘰 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘭𝘪𝘻𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘮𝘢𝘯𝘺 𝘢𝘶𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘳𝘴 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘶𝘯𝘦𝘥𝘶𝘤𝘢𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘢𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘭𝘪𝘵𝘺 𝘰𝘧 𝘩𝘰𝘸 𝘢 𝘮𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘺 𝘪𝘭𝘭 𝘰𝘳 𝘵𝘳𝘢𝘶𝘮𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘻𝘦𝘥 𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘴𝘰𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘬𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘢𝘤𝘵𝘴. 𝘪𝘯𝘢𝘤𝘤𝘶𝘳𝘢𝘵𝘦 𝘱𝘰𝘳𝘵𝘳𝘢𝘺𝘢𝘭𝘴 𝘤𝘢𝘯 𝘣𝘦 𝘱𝘳𝘦𝘵𝘵𝘺 𝘥𝘢𝘮𝘢𝘨𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘤𝘢𝘯 𝘢𝘭𝘴𝘰 𝘴𝘱𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘥 𝘮𝘪𝘴𝘪𝘯𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘮𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯, 𝘸𝘩𝘪𝘤𝘩 𝘪𝘴 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘨𝘰𝘰𝘥 𝘢𝘵 𝘢𝘭𝘭.
𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙣𝙠 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙨𝙩𝙞𝙘𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙖𝙧𝙤𝙪𝙣𝙙 & 𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙙𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙢𝙮 𝙧𝙖𝙢𝙗𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙚𝙣𝙙 💗✨
December 16, 2023
I found The Sweetest Obsession to be an absolute pleasure to read. I have read many of Nicole Snow’s books, but this is the first time I’ve read an ARC copy, and it was beautiful from start to finish. I immediately fell in love with Grant and nine year old Nell, and I really enjoyed meeting Ophelia as well. Grant immediately becomes protective of Ophelia when she comes back to town after a long absence to take care of her mother and insists she stay with him. The Sweetest Obsession has some mystery and suspense elements and I adored watching Grant, Nell, and Ophelia fall in love and get their HEA.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 19, 2023
*sigh, really enjoyed this!
Ophelia has come home to Redhaven after a decade away and there's a lot of history to unfold - and oh boy! The first one she meets when she arrives in town - her missing brothers best friend, who also happened to be her childhood crush!
There's a lot of secrets in this town, if you have read the previous book you would know some of it - you don't necessarily have to read it but if your like me and need to know EVERYTHING about EVERYONE then go back!
Childhood friends, wants to be more, drama, fall-outs, secrets, fear, hope, it has it all!
Ophelia has come home to Redhaven after a decade away and there's a lot of history to unfold - and oh boy! The first one she meets when she arrives in town - her missing brothers best friend, who also happened to be her childhood crush!
There's a lot of secrets in this town, if you have read the previous book you would know some of it - you don't necessarily have to read it but if your like me and need to know EVERYTHING about EVERYONE then go back!
Childhood friends, wants to be more, drama, fall-outs, secrets, fear, hope, it has it all!
December 21, 2023
Loved reading the engaging and engrossing romance story. Even though Ophelia hasn't been home in years, she comes home because her mother isn't doing well, her sister's engaged to an awful person, and Ophelia dreads seeing Grant, the man she had a crush on and who hurt her feelings when she left town. Read the highly recommended, wonderfully written, and a must read riveting love story by the phenomenal author, Nicole Snow.
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