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Grayline #1
Override
He was hired to investigate her husband.
He never expected to become the only man who truly saw her.
Maeve Gallagher has spent months convincing herself that her marriage isn’t as bad as it feels.
The cameras are for protection.
The rules are reasonable.
The isolation is temporary.
And if she has to hide in an unused bathroom just to breathe without being watched, that doesn’t mean she’s trapped.
It only means she needs to try harder.
Keaton “Skee” Vance trusts systems more than people. As Grayline’s brilliant, morally gray hacker, he finds the patterns everyone else misses—and the deeper he digs into Ronan Gallagher’s carefully constructed life, the more one truth becomes impossible to ignore.
Maeve isn’t being protected.
She’s being controlled.
Skee was only supposed to gather evidence. Instead, he starts quietly giving her back the pieces of herself Ronan has taken—her favorite coffee, the music she loves, contact with her family, and the freedom to make her own choices.
But when Ronan’s control turns violent, watching from the shadows is no longer enough.
Skee will break every rule, destroy every system, and burn Grayline’s carefully laid plans to the ground before he lets Maeve disappear.
Because she may belong to one of the most powerful families in Chicago…
But for the first time in her life, the choice belongs to her.
And she chooses him.
Override is a slow-burn military romantic suspense featuring a genius hacker hero, an Irish mafia heroine escaping a controlling marriage, forced proximity, touch-her-and-die protection, found family, emotional healing, and a fiercely devoted hero who will always give her the freedom to choose.
He never expected to become the only man who truly saw her.
Maeve Gallagher has spent months convincing herself that her marriage isn’t as bad as it feels.
The cameras are for protection.
The rules are reasonable.
The isolation is temporary.
And if she has to hide in an unused bathroom just to breathe without being watched, that doesn’t mean she’s trapped.
It only means she needs to try harder.
Keaton “Skee” Vance trusts systems more than people. As Grayline’s brilliant, morally gray hacker, he finds the patterns everyone else misses—and the deeper he digs into Ronan Gallagher’s carefully constructed life, the more one truth becomes impossible to ignore.
Maeve isn’t being protected.
She’s being controlled.
Skee was only supposed to gather evidence. Instead, he starts quietly giving her back the pieces of herself Ronan has taken—her favorite coffee, the music she loves, contact with her family, and the freedom to make her own choices.
But when Ronan’s control turns violent, watching from the shadows is no longer enough.
Skee will break every rule, destroy every system, and burn Grayline’s carefully laid plans to the ground before he lets Maeve disappear.
Because she may belong to one of the most powerful families in Chicago…
But for the first time in her life, the choice belongs to her.
And she chooses him.
Override is a slow-burn military romantic suspense featuring a genius hacker hero, an Irish mafia heroine escaping a controlling marriage, forced proximity, touch-her-and-die protection, found family, emotional healing, and a fiercely devoted hero who will always give her the freedom to choose.
515 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 29, 2026
About the author
Jennifer Smith
22 books87 followersI live in a beautiful river town in North Carolina with my husband, kids, in-laws and fur babies. I love to travel and books. If I am not reading one I am writing one. I love how a book can give you an escape from our normal world. You can be anywhere and become anyone.
I want anyone reading one of my books to remember this....
you are worthy, you are loved, you are wanted!
I want anyone reading one of my books to remember this....
you are worthy, you are loved, you are wanted!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
August 30, 2026
4🌟 | 1.5🌶️
This was a surprisingly easy book to get invested in.
Maeve’s journey really got to me, especially watching her slowly rediscover her independence after having so much of her life controlled. Seeing her start making choices for herself again was easily one of my favorite parts.
Keaton was such an interesting MMC. He’s quirky, ridiculously smart, and fiercely protective, but I loved that protecting Maeve never meant taking away her autonomy. He pays attention to the little things, learns how she works, and gives her space to find her voice again. Their connection felt more emotional than purely physical, which really suited their story.
The Grayline crew was another huge highlight. Their banter, loyalty, and found-family dynamic added so much personality to the story. I would have loved a little more time with Maeve’s healing, but overall this was an emotional and engaging romantic suspense that surprised me in the best way.
I’m very happy this turned out to be as enjoyable as it was.
~~~~
A huge thank you to the author, Jennifer Smith, for the ARC! 😍 All my bookish thoughts are completely my own. ✨
This was a surprisingly easy book to get invested in.
Maeve’s journey really got to me, especially watching her slowly rediscover her independence after having so much of her life controlled. Seeing her start making choices for herself again was easily one of my favorite parts.
Keaton was such an interesting MMC. He’s quirky, ridiculously smart, and fiercely protective, but I loved that protecting Maeve never meant taking away her autonomy. He pays attention to the little things, learns how she works, and gives her space to find her voice again. Their connection felt more emotional than purely physical, which really suited their story.
The Grayline crew was another huge highlight. Their banter, loyalty, and found-family dynamic added so much personality to the story. I would have loved a little more time with Maeve’s healing, but overall this was an emotional and engaging romantic suspense that surprised me in the best way.
I’m very happy this turned out to be as enjoyable as it was.
~~~~
A huge thank you to the author, Jennifer Smith, for the ARC! 😍 All my bookish thoughts are completely my own. ✨
Review of advance copy received from Author
Title: Override
Series: Grayline Series
Author: Jennifer Smith
Format: ARC
Pub Date: August 31st
Star Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice Rating: 🌶️🌶️
ARC: Yes
My Thoughts
Quick Take
What kind of person would you become if everything was taken from you? Your freedom. Your choices. Even your favorite comfort clothes.
Maeve has become a shell of the person she once was as her husband controls nearly every aspect of her life. Keaton “Skee” is the first person to truly see her and, more importantly, begin giving her back something she desperately needs: choices and freedom.
What I Loved
Keaton & Maeve: They have instant chemistry. Keaton feels an immediate connection to Maeve, and being around her brings him a sense of comfort he wasn't expecting.
Protective Keaton: Keaton and the Grayline team are hired to investigate Maeve’s husband, but it doesn’t take long before protecting Maeve becomes personal for him.
Pacing: The story moves at a nice pace and kept me interested, although the ending felt a little rushed.
Found Family: Some of my favorite moments were the banter between the Grayline team members. I loved the found-family dynamic.
Maeve’s Healing: Watching Maeve slowly reclaim pieces of herself, make her own choices, and begin healing was one of the strongest parts of the story.
Romantic Suspense: A well-written mix of romance, suspense, danger, and emotional healing.
Synopsis
Maeve has spent years living under the control of her husband, slowly losing her freedom, her choices, and pieces of herself along the way.
When Grayline is hired to investigate him, hacker Keaton “Skee” enters her life and quickly realizes there’s more happening behind closed doors than anyone knows. As Keaton works to uncover the truth, his connection with Maeve grows, and protecting her becomes more than just part of the job.
Override is a romantic suspense about finding freedom, healing, and learning to make your own choices again.
🖤 Tropes / Themes
Protective Hacker
Military Romantic Suspense
Hidden Surveillance
Obsessed / Protective MMC
Found Family
Healing & Reclaiming Independence
Standout Moment
Standout Moment: Maeve beginning to realize that she is allowed to have preferences, make choices, and decide what she wants for herself.
Read If You Like
Susan Stoker • Rebecca Yarros • Suzanne Brockmann • Kaylea Cross • Pamela Clare
Final Thoughts
I enjoyed Override. The ending felt rushed, and I would have liked a little more time for everything to play out, but overall, this was an interesting take on romantic suspense.
Keaton is a highly intelligent, protective MMC, while Maeve is a flawed but healing FMC learning how to take control of her own life again. Their relationship, combined with the Grayline found-family dynamic and suspense elements, made this an enjoyable read.
Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ / 5
Would I recommend it? Yes
Would I continue the series? Yes
Thank you to Jennifer Smith for providing this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.
Series: Grayline Series
Author: Jennifer Smith
Format: ARC
Pub Date: August 31st
Star Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice Rating: 🌶️🌶️
ARC: Yes
My Thoughts
Quick Take
What kind of person would you become if everything was taken from you? Your freedom. Your choices. Even your favorite comfort clothes.
Maeve has become a shell of the person she once was as her husband controls nearly every aspect of her life. Keaton “Skee” is the first person to truly see her and, more importantly, begin giving her back something she desperately needs: choices and freedom.
What I Loved
Keaton & Maeve: They have instant chemistry. Keaton feels an immediate connection to Maeve, and being around her brings him a sense of comfort he wasn't expecting.
Protective Keaton: Keaton and the Grayline team are hired to investigate Maeve’s husband, but it doesn’t take long before protecting Maeve becomes personal for him.
Pacing: The story moves at a nice pace and kept me interested, although the ending felt a little rushed.
Found Family: Some of my favorite moments were the banter between the Grayline team members. I loved the found-family dynamic.
Maeve’s Healing: Watching Maeve slowly reclaim pieces of herself, make her own choices, and begin healing was one of the strongest parts of the story.
Romantic Suspense: A well-written mix of romance, suspense, danger, and emotional healing.
Synopsis
Maeve has spent years living under the control of her husband, slowly losing her freedom, her choices, and pieces of herself along the way.
When Grayline is hired to investigate him, hacker Keaton “Skee” enters her life and quickly realizes there’s more happening behind closed doors than anyone knows. As Keaton works to uncover the truth, his connection with Maeve grows, and protecting her becomes more than just part of the job.
Override is a romantic suspense about finding freedom, healing, and learning to make your own choices again.
🖤 Tropes / Themes
Protective Hacker
Military Romantic Suspense
Hidden Surveillance
Obsessed / Protective MMC
Found Family
Healing & Reclaiming Independence
Standout Moment
Standout Moment: Maeve beginning to realize that she is allowed to have preferences, make choices, and decide what she wants for herself.
Read If You Like
Susan Stoker • Rebecca Yarros • Suzanne Brockmann • Kaylea Cross • Pamela Clare
Final Thoughts
I enjoyed Override. The ending felt rushed, and I would have liked a little more time for everything to play out, but overall, this was an interesting take on romantic suspense.
Keaton is a highly intelligent, protective MMC, while Maeve is a flawed but healing FMC learning how to take control of her own life again. Their relationship, combined with the Grayline found-family dynamic and suspense elements, made this an enjoyable read.
Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ / 5
Would I recommend it? Yes
Would I continue the series? Yes
Thank you to Jennifer Smith for providing this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Override — 4★ ARC Review
I honestly didn't expect to like this book as much as I did. It wasn't 100% perfect for me, but there were quite a few things about it that surprised me in the best way.
One of my favorite things about Keaton was that, despite being extremely protective of Maeve and not always wanting to give up control, he still gave her choices. Even when he didn't particularly want to, he understood that the choice had to be hers. Considering everything Maeve had been through, that made such a huge difference to their relationship.
I also really loved that his first reaction to Maeve wasn't lust. It was recognition and familiarity. There was something about her that felt familiar to him before he even understood why, and I found that so much more interesting than immediately making their attraction purely physical.
Maeve's character was probably what affected me the most. She's a beautiful person and a beautiful soul who has been trapped for so long that she's been manipulated into believing that nobody truly cares about her—not even her own family. She's controlled and blackmailed under the facade of protection until she barely recognizes herself anymore. Watching her slowly begin to stand up for herself again was genuinely touching. I do wish we had seen a little more of the actual healing process because it felt somewhat rushed, but her overall arc was still really nice to read.
And then there's Keaton.
He's such an unusual character. He's nerdy, wears glasses, overthinks practically everything, and has these very specific patterns in the way he processes things. At first, I actually found some of his thought processes and dialogue a little difficult to get into. Some conversations, especially with his family, felt slightly stilted or unusual compared to what I'm used to reading. But eventually, I started to understand that this was simply part of how his mind worked.
What I ended up loving most was how Maeve learned to understand him too. She learns his patterns—like the two taps, pause, two taps—and realizes that when other people might think he's avoiding an answer, he's actually trying to find the exact words to express what he's thinking. And I really liked that their relationship became about understanding each other's language, not just attraction.
The romance was also much gentler than I expected, which worked for this story. It's definitely not a smut-heavy book. For me, it's around 🌶️/5, so if you're looking for something very spicy, this probably isn't that book.
The pacing was actually pretty good for me. I didn't feel like the story dragged, although I did think the ending was somewhat rushed. I wanted a little more time with certain parts, especially Maeve's healing and the aftermath.
Overall, though, I went into Override not expecting much and ended up genuinely enjoying it. It has its flaws, but the themes of control, autonomy, trust, and learning to understand someone really worked for me.
4/5 ⭐
🌶️/5
I honestly didn't expect to like this book as much as I did. It wasn't 100% perfect for me, but there were quite a few things about it that surprised me in the best way.
One of my favorite things about Keaton was that, despite being extremely protective of Maeve and not always wanting to give up control, he still gave her choices. Even when he didn't particularly want to, he understood that the choice had to be hers. Considering everything Maeve had been through, that made such a huge difference to their relationship.
I also really loved that his first reaction to Maeve wasn't lust. It was recognition and familiarity. There was something about her that felt familiar to him before he even understood why, and I found that so much more interesting than immediately making their attraction purely physical.
Maeve's character was probably what affected me the most. She's a beautiful person and a beautiful soul who has been trapped for so long that she's been manipulated into believing that nobody truly cares about her—not even her own family. She's controlled and blackmailed under the facade of protection until she barely recognizes herself anymore. Watching her slowly begin to stand up for herself again was genuinely touching. I do wish we had seen a little more of the actual healing process because it felt somewhat rushed, but her overall arc was still really nice to read.
And then there's Keaton.
He's such an unusual character. He's nerdy, wears glasses, overthinks practically everything, and has these very specific patterns in the way he processes things. At first, I actually found some of his thought processes and dialogue a little difficult to get into. Some conversations, especially with his family, felt slightly stilted or unusual compared to what I'm used to reading. But eventually, I started to understand that this was simply part of how his mind worked.
What I ended up loving most was how Maeve learned to understand him too. She learns his patterns—like the two taps, pause, two taps—and realizes that when other people might think he's avoiding an answer, he's actually trying to find the exact words to express what he's thinking. And I really liked that their relationship became about understanding each other's language, not just attraction.
The romance was also much gentler than I expected, which worked for this story. It's definitely not a smut-heavy book. For me, it's around 🌶️/5, so if you're looking for something very spicy, this probably isn't that book.
The pacing was actually pretty good for me. I didn't feel like the story dragged, although I did think the ending was somewhat rushed. I wanted a little more time with certain parts, especially Maeve's healing and the aftermath.
Overall, though, I went into Override not expecting much and ended up genuinely enjoying it. It has its flaws, but the themes of control, autonomy, trust, and learning to understand someone really worked for me.
4/5 ⭐
🌶️/5
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 24, 2026
I really hate giving a disappointing review to an author I genuinely enjoy, but Override by Jennifer Smith just wasn’t it for me.
The premise had so much potential! Maeve Gallagher is trapped in a controlling marriage, surrounded by wealth, power, and an illusion of protection that’s really just another form of imprisonment. Enter Keaton “Skee” Vance, Grayline’s brilliant, morally gray hacker, who’s investigating her husband and discovers that Maeve’s life is far more complicated than it appears. With the Irish mafia connections, a protective hacker, dangerous secrets, and the promise of a slow-burn romance, this had all the ingredients for a fantastic romantic suspense story.
Unfortunately, the execution just didn’t live up to what I was hoping for.
For a book with so many opportunities for suspense, danger, emotional depth, and character development, the storyline felt incredibly drawn out. I don’t mind a slow burn—in fact, I usually love one—but there’s a difference between building anticipation and simply taking too long to get somewhere. Too much of this story felt repetitive, and I kept waiting for the plot to really take off.
I also felt like the mafia connections, Skee’s hacking abilities, and the overall Grayline storyline could have been utilized so much more. There was plenty of material to create a gripping, high-stakes story, but instead, it felt like we spent far too much time getting to the interesting parts.
I appreciated the underlying themes of reclaiming independence, finding your voice, and learning to trust again. Those elements gave the story a strong foundation, but I wanted more substance and momentum to go along with them.
Jennifer Smith is an author I typically really enjoy, which honestly makes this one even more disappointing. I know what she’s capable of, and I feel like this story could have been so much more with tighter pacing and a little less unnecessary buildup.
Overall, a great concept with a lot of missed opportunities. It wasn’t terrible, but it was far too long for what the storyline actually delivered. I’ll absolutely continue reading Jennifer Smith, but unfortunately, Override just didn’t hit the mark for me.
The premise had so much potential! Maeve Gallagher is trapped in a controlling marriage, surrounded by wealth, power, and an illusion of protection that’s really just another form of imprisonment. Enter Keaton “Skee” Vance, Grayline’s brilliant, morally gray hacker, who’s investigating her husband and discovers that Maeve’s life is far more complicated than it appears. With the Irish mafia connections, a protective hacker, dangerous secrets, and the promise of a slow-burn romance, this had all the ingredients for a fantastic romantic suspense story.
Unfortunately, the execution just didn’t live up to what I was hoping for.
For a book with so many opportunities for suspense, danger, emotional depth, and character development, the storyline felt incredibly drawn out. I don’t mind a slow burn—in fact, I usually love one—but there’s a difference between building anticipation and simply taking too long to get somewhere. Too much of this story felt repetitive, and I kept waiting for the plot to really take off.
I also felt like the mafia connections, Skee’s hacking abilities, and the overall Grayline storyline could have been utilized so much more. There was plenty of material to create a gripping, high-stakes story, but instead, it felt like we spent far too much time getting to the interesting parts.
I appreciated the underlying themes of reclaiming independence, finding your voice, and learning to trust again. Those elements gave the story a strong foundation, but I wanted more substance and momentum to go along with them.
Jennifer Smith is an author I typically really enjoy, which honestly makes this one even more disappointing. I know what she’s capable of, and I feel like this story could have been so much more with tighter pacing and a little less unnecessary buildup.
Overall, a great concept with a lot of missed opportunities. It wasn’t terrible, but it was far too long for what the storyline actually delivered. I’ll absolutely continue reading Jennifer Smith, but unfortunately, Override just didn’t hit the mark for me.
August 25, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I HAVE THOUGHTS. MANY, MANY THOUGHTS. 😭😂
First of all… Jennifer Smith, what exactly did you put in this book because I am OBSESSED.
I went into this without an official blurb, basically knowing nothing, and somehow ended up completely emotionally compromised over a bunch of fictional men and one woman who deserved SO MUCH BETTER. 😭
Maeve??? MY GIRL. I wanted to reach through the pages and rescue her myself. Watching everything she was put through had me so angry, but watching her slowly find herself again??? YES. THAT. Give me all of it.
And SKEE.
SKEEEEE. 😭🔥
Because this man had me in a chokehold. The way he pays attention to Maeve. The way he actually listens. The way he gives her back the little pieces of herself that she’s been forced to give up. The way he never makes her feel like she owes him anything.
I AM UNWELL.
There is something about a man who doesn’t just say “I’ll protect you” but actually makes sure you still have a CHOICE that absolutely destroys me. And Skee did that. Over and over again. 🥹❤️
And then we have Greyline.
THE GREYLINE MEN.
I need to know who gave Jennifer Smith permission to make an entire group of men this entertaining because I want ALL OF THEM. 😂 The banter. The absolute chaos. The loyalty. The way they would burn the world down for each other. The fact that Maeve gets pulled into this ridiculous found family and they basically go, “Yep, she’s ours now.”
I LOVE THEM.
I love them so much it’s actually embarrassing.
This book had me smiling, angry, swooning, yelling at my Kindle, and probably looking like a complete lunatic while reading because WHY AM I THIS INVESTED?! 😂
And now I have a new problem.
I NEED THE REST OF THIS SERIES.
Like… immediately.
I am not patient. I do not want to be patient. I have already emotionally adopted these characters and I need to know what happens next. 😭
This was the kind of book where I finished it and just sat there for a minute because I wasn’t ready to leave the world yet.
So yeah.
5 stars. Obviously. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Jennifer Smith, respectfully… what have you done to me? 😂❤️
Thank you SO much for letting me read this before release. I already know I’ll be stalking the second the next book is announced. 👀
I HAVE THOUGHTS. MANY, MANY THOUGHTS. 😭😂
First of all… Jennifer Smith, what exactly did you put in this book because I am OBSESSED.
I went into this without an official blurb, basically knowing nothing, and somehow ended up completely emotionally compromised over a bunch of fictional men and one woman who deserved SO MUCH BETTER. 😭
Maeve??? MY GIRL. I wanted to reach through the pages and rescue her myself. Watching everything she was put through had me so angry, but watching her slowly find herself again??? YES. THAT. Give me all of it.
And SKEE.
SKEEEEE. 😭🔥
Because this man had me in a chokehold. The way he pays attention to Maeve. The way he actually listens. The way he gives her back the little pieces of herself that she’s been forced to give up. The way he never makes her feel like she owes him anything.
I AM UNWELL.
There is something about a man who doesn’t just say “I’ll protect you” but actually makes sure you still have a CHOICE that absolutely destroys me. And Skee did that. Over and over again. 🥹❤️
And then we have Greyline.
THE GREYLINE MEN.
I need to know who gave Jennifer Smith permission to make an entire group of men this entertaining because I want ALL OF THEM. 😂 The banter. The absolute chaos. The loyalty. The way they would burn the world down for each other. The fact that Maeve gets pulled into this ridiculous found family and they basically go, “Yep, she’s ours now.”
I LOVE THEM.
I love them so much it’s actually embarrassing.
This book had me smiling, angry, swooning, yelling at my Kindle, and probably looking like a complete lunatic while reading because WHY AM I THIS INVESTED?! 😂
And now I have a new problem.
I NEED THE REST OF THIS SERIES.
Like… immediately.
I am not patient. I do not want to be patient. I have already emotionally adopted these characters and I need to know what happens next. 😭
This was the kind of book where I finished it and just sat there for a minute because I wasn’t ready to leave the world yet.
So yeah.
5 stars. Obviously. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Jennifer Smith, respectfully… what have you done to me? 😂❤️
Thank you SO much for letting me read this before release. I already know I’ll be stalking the second the next book is announced. 👀
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 29, 2026
I can’t remember the last time I read something this suffocatingly tense and neck‑hair‑raising — and I mean that in the best possible way.
The book highlights a form of emotional abuse in relationships that is damn hard to prove. Maeve is completely isolated and controlled in her marriage. Nothing happens without someone watching her. Her autonomy, habits, friends, family, free time — even her food — have all been stripped away. All of it framed as “protection.” There’s a massive difference between protecting and controlling.
Keaton survives through routines. The smallest unexpected change spikes his anxiety. His whole life has been pattern‑analysis, deviations, and structure — he notices shifts instantly. So he sees what others don’t: Maeve is trapped in a prison without bars.
I devoured this book in a day despite its length — which says everything about how desperately I needed to know how it ends. Jennifer captures the emotionally abusive partner’s behavior with painful accuracy: the victim’s submission to control, the environment enabling it, and why this makes the situation so dangerous.
At the same time, Maeve’s slow release from that control is beautifully portrayed — and what it feels like when Keaton actually sees her, and most importantly, gives her freedom of choice. He doesn’t decide anything for her. Keaton’s confusion over his own feelings is charming — there’s no scientific formula for falling in love, and this man lives by formulas.
Despite the harrowing subject matter, I can warmly recommend this book. The side characters bring hilarious banter with Keaton, and Maeve and Keaton’s relationship grows slowly and beautifully. Overall, the story gives a voice to an “invisible” form of emotional abuse — and does it with skill.
The book highlights a form of emotional abuse in relationships that is damn hard to prove. Maeve is completely isolated and controlled in her marriage. Nothing happens without someone watching her. Her autonomy, habits, friends, family, free time — even her food — have all been stripped away. All of it framed as “protection.” There’s a massive difference between protecting and controlling.
Keaton survives through routines. The smallest unexpected change spikes his anxiety. His whole life has been pattern‑analysis, deviations, and structure — he notices shifts instantly. So he sees what others don’t: Maeve is trapped in a prison without bars.
I devoured this book in a day despite its length — which says everything about how desperately I needed to know how it ends. Jennifer captures the emotionally abusive partner’s behavior with painful accuracy: the victim’s submission to control, the environment enabling it, and why this makes the situation so dangerous.
At the same time, Maeve’s slow release from that control is beautifully portrayed — and what it feels like when Keaton actually sees her, and most importantly, gives her freedom of choice. He doesn’t decide anything for her. Keaton’s confusion over his own feelings is charming — there’s no scientific formula for falling in love, and this man lives by formulas.
Despite the harrowing subject matter, I can warmly recommend this book. The side characters bring hilarious banter with Keaton, and Maeve and Keaton’s relationship grows slowly and beautifully. Overall, the story gives a voice to an “invisible” form of emotional abuse — and does it with skill.
September 1, 2026
For a book that deals with some heavy situations, the start of a new security romance series by Jennifer Smith is surprisingly tender and sweet. Maeve is a Mafia princess in an arranged marriage. She's been raised to believe that being a dutiful daughter also means being a dutiful wife. But as she tries to find peace in her marriage, her husband becomes more controlling; stripping her of everything that makes her who she is. Something's not right. Nobody notices, she's told that marriage is hard, and she tries to keep the fragile peace even as layers of her personality and comfort are removed.
She's constantly under her husband's surveillance; never having a moment of privacy. Cameras are in every room, watching and following her throughout her day. When Keaton, a member of a quasi-legal security team, is hired to look into Maeve's husband, he hacks their home's interior security feeds. Instead of finding dirt on her criminal husband, he starts picking up the patterns of Maeve's abuse. His neurodivergent mind is drawn to her in a way that's wholly unfamiliar to him. He becomes obsessed; using his abilities to give Maeve small pieces of herself back. Communicating with her through anonymous text messages, he becomes her only true companion.
This is a slow-burn with something unique - because of the way Keaton's mind works, you get the intense longing alongside his sincere confusion as to why he actually feels this way. His lack of understanding, at first, of his own pull towards Maeve makes for a fantastic inner monologue. Add in the rest of the security team's wild banter and acceptance of each other's quirks, and Maeve's struggle to maintain her authenticity - you end up with an emotional journey that you won't want to put down.
She's constantly under her husband's surveillance; never having a moment of privacy. Cameras are in every room, watching and following her throughout her day. When Keaton, a member of a quasi-legal security team, is hired to look into Maeve's husband, he hacks their home's interior security feeds. Instead of finding dirt on her criminal husband, he starts picking up the patterns of Maeve's abuse. His neurodivergent mind is drawn to her in a way that's wholly unfamiliar to him. He becomes obsessed; using his abilities to give Maeve small pieces of herself back. Communicating with her through anonymous text messages, he becomes her only true companion.
This is a slow-burn with something unique - because of the way Keaton's mind works, you get the intense longing alongside his sincere confusion as to why he actually feels this way. His lack of understanding, at first, of his own pull towards Maeve makes for a fantastic inner monologue. Add in the rest of the security team's wild banter and acceptance of each other's quirks, and Maeve's struggle to maintain her authenticity - you end up with an emotional journey that you won't want to put down.
Read
August 15, 2026Grayline: Keaton “Skee” & Maeve
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
I honestly didn’t know quite what I expected from this, but it was different, and in a very, very good way.
Keaton falls fast, and I mean fast. They haven’t even properly met, and he’s already completely invested in Maeve.
But Maeve… She absolutely broke my heart. Watching how slowly she had lost herself under her husband’s control was incredibly difficult. There are some heavy triggers in this one, and her situation becomes increasingly disturbing as the story unfolds.
I really loved that Keaton doesn’t just immediately swoop in and “save” her. You could feel his angst about leaving her in there, but the way he starts giving Maeve back the little pieces of herself that have been taken away — her choices, her connections, the things she enjoys, thenand ultimately makes sure she gets to choose what happens next. Loved it!
The family and found-family focus was another huge highlight. There’s such a strong sense of loyalty and belonging, and I loved watching Maeve find people who genuinely had her back.
And I have to mention Maeve’s secret conversations with him and the little camera nods. They had me right in the feels.
Keaton is fiercely protective and completely devoted, but underneath all the touch-her-and-die energy, he respects Maeve’s autonomy. The most sweet and gorgeous hero….
Emotional, suspenseful and definitely a wonderful series to continue.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
I honestly didn’t know quite what I expected from this, but it was different, and in a very, very good way.
Keaton falls fast, and I mean fast. They haven’t even properly met, and he’s already completely invested in Maeve.
But Maeve… She absolutely broke my heart. Watching how slowly she had lost herself under her husband’s control was incredibly difficult. There are some heavy triggers in this one, and her situation becomes increasingly disturbing as the story unfolds.
I really loved that Keaton doesn’t just immediately swoop in and “save” her. You could feel his angst about leaving her in there, but the way he starts giving Maeve back the little pieces of herself that have been taken away — her choices, her connections, the things she enjoys, thenand ultimately makes sure she gets to choose what happens next. Loved it!
The family and found-family focus was another huge highlight. There’s such a strong sense of loyalty and belonging, and I loved watching Maeve find people who genuinely had her back.
And I have to mention Maeve’s secret conversations with him and the little camera nods. They had me right in the feels.
Keaton is fiercely protective and completely devoted, but underneath all the touch-her-and-die energy, he respects Maeve’s autonomy. The most sweet and gorgeous hero….
Emotional, suspenseful and definitely a wonderful series to continue.
September 5, 2026
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5/5 Stars
Override was my first book by Jennifer Smith, and I can officially say I’m an instant fan! This book was SO good that it actually pissed me off that real life kept getting in the way of my reading. 😂 It took me longer than I wanted to finish, but that had absolutely nothing to do with the book—just life lifing.
I really enjoyed the characters, especially the entire Grayline crew. I loved how they somehow managed to be the most normal kind of dysfunctional family. There’s something about a group of morally questionable people who still genuinely care about each other that just works for me.
And the romance? The slow burn was EVERYTHING. I couldn’t wait to see what was going to happen next, and I was completely invested in watching things unfold. Keaton absolutely stole my heart. I adore him, and he may have officially earned himself a spot on my book-husband list. Give me a smart, strong, nerdy man and I am SOLD. 😍
The spice was spicy without being overbearing, which was perfect for the story. It added to the romance without taking over the plot.
Honestly, this is exactly the kind of book that makes you wish you were a mafia princess living out this completely ridiculous, dangerous, and incredibly entertaining fantasy. 😂
5 stars, absolutely deserved, and I cannot wait to read more from Jennifer Smith!
Override was my first book by Jennifer Smith, and I can officially say I’m an instant fan! This book was SO good that it actually pissed me off that real life kept getting in the way of my reading. 😂 It took me longer than I wanted to finish, but that had absolutely nothing to do with the book—just life lifing.
I really enjoyed the characters, especially the entire Grayline crew. I loved how they somehow managed to be the most normal kind of dysfunctional family. There’s something about a group of morally questionable people who still genuinely care about each other that just works for me.
And the romance? The slow burn was EVERYTHING. I couldn’t wait to see what was going to happen next, and I was completely invested in watching things unfold. Keaton absolutely stole my heart. I adore him, and he may have officially earned himself a spot on my book-husband list. Give me a smart, strong, nerdy man and I am SOLD. 😍
The spice was spicy without being overbearing, which was perfect for the story. It added to the romance without taking over the plot.
Honestly, this is exactly the kind of book that makes you wish you were a mafia princess living out this completely ridiculous, dangerous, and incredibly entertaining fantasy. 😂
5 stars, absolutely deserved, and I cannot wait to read more from Jennifer Smith!
September 17, 2026
Reviewed by Rose on behalf of the Plot Thickens Book Club
Title: Override
Author: Jennifer Smith
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Who says we need sleep. I've had very little reading this book. Happy ever after with male main character falling first (although it takes him a while to realise).
Keaton (Skee) (Taibhse) works for Grayline a private security company set up by friends who were in the military together.
Maeve daughter to the Irish mafia in an arranged marriage to Ronan Gallagher.
Keaton was tasked with looking into Ronan. Whilst doing his searches he accessed the internal security system to the house and sees Maeve who he finds is being isolated from friends and family. He takes it upon himself to help her see her family and try to ensure her safety. Whilst a monitoring session from outside the grounds after being locked out of the security system he sees Ronan hurt Maeve and proceeds to extract her from the situation. I don't want to give too much of the story away, but will just say that I can guarantee once you start to read this book you will not want to put it down. Both main characters feel broken but help the other to heal. And being introduced to the rest of the team from Grayline I can't wait for book 2 of the Grayline series to see whose up next.
Then to get a epilogue bonus chapter to catch up on them was just the icing on the cake.
Title: Override
Author: Jennifer Smith
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Who says we need sleep. I've had very little reading this book. Happy ever after with male main character falling first (although it takes him a while to realise).
Keaton (Skee) (Taibhse) works for Grayline a private security company set up by friends who were in the military together.
Maeve daughter to the Irish mafia in an arranged marriage to Ronan Gallagher.
Keaton was tasked with looking into Ronan. Whilst doing his searches he accessed the internal security system to the house and sees Maeve who he finds is being isolated from friends and family. He takes it upon himself to help her see her family and try to ensure her safety. Whilst a monitoring session from outside the grounds after being locked out of the security system he sees Ronan hurt Maeve and proceeds to extract her from the situation. I don't want to give too much of the story away, but will just say that I can guarantee once you start to read this book you will not want to put it down. Both main characters feel broken but help the other to heal. And being introduced to the rest of the team from Grayline I can't wait for book 2 of the Grayline series to see whose up next.
Then to get a epilogue bonus chapter to catch up on them was just the icing on the cake.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I absolutely CANNOT wait for the rest of this series!!! The Greyline men have completely stole my heart. The banter, respect and love they have for their friends turned family was everything!
Maeve's position as an Irish mafia princess means she's set up with a man who can create an alliance for the family. And although Ronan seems like the perfect man, there's something cold about him. Unaware that she is essentially a captive in her own home, No longer allowed to visit her family, move freely around her own home or find comfort in the clothes she brought with her, Maeve slowly loses herself to become the version of her that Ronan expects her to be.
Keaton, also known as 'Skee' to his friends/ team at Greyline has been tasked with making sure Ronan is who he says he is. Unable to find anything 'dirty' on him, he turns his attention to his wife.
After becoming obsessed with Maeve, Keaton watches, listens and gives her small parts of herself back. Forming a friendship through nothing more than cameras and a listening device. But Keaton wants more than friendship.
I absolutely loved how Keaton gave Maeve her choice back, in every aspect of her life. The found family that automatically enveloped Maeve in their close circle and how no matter what, they was there for both Keaton and Maeve.
Thank you so much to Jennifer Smith for the chance to read this before release.
Maeve's position as an Irish mafia princess means she's set up with a man who can create an alliance for the family. And although Ronan seems like the perfect man, there's something cold about him. Unaware that she is essentially a captive in her own home, No longer allowed to visit her family, move freely around her own home or find comfort in the clothes she brought with her, Maeve slowly loses herself to become the version of her that Ronan expects her to be.
Keaton, also known as 'Skee' to his friends/ team at Greyline has been tasked with making sure Ronan is who he says he is. Unable to find anything 'dirty' on him, he turns his attention to his wife.
After becoming obsessed with Maeve, Keaton watches, listens and gives her small parts of herself back. Forming a friendship through nothing more than cameras and a listening device. But Keaton wants more than friendship.
I absolutely loved how Keaton gave Maeve her choice back, in every aspect of her life. The found family that automatically enveloped Maeve in their close circle and how no matter what, they was there for both Keaton and Maeve.
Thank you so much to Jennifer Smith for the chance to read this before release.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I loved this book. I fell hard for the whole "Grayline" team. Keaton (Skee) and Maeve don't have the conventional meet-cute, but it is really fitting for them. Keaton understands systems, routines, computers, patterns which makes him the perfect addition to any investigation. Maeve knew that her parents had an arranged marriage and that happens in the family business, but she didn't get the marriage she'd seen her parents have. When Keaton starts investigating Maeve's husband, he forms an attachment to Maeve from a distance. Keaton may not love in the way other people do but the way he does is still so heartwarming. Maeve learned to watch and anticipate how she was "supposed" to react and because of that she became very observant which helps her notice things others may miss. I loved that these two were finally seen, chosen and able to find love. I will be honest I have read this author before and really enjoyed the hockey series, but this book let me know this series will probably be my favorite so far. I know I love a good mafia book, protector romance, teams of found family, people with quirks finding matches and this has everything! I can't wait for the rest of the team to get their books! Highly recommend this one and if you haven't read this author yet, start here!
Read
September 29, 2026Override is my introduction to the works of Jennifer Smith. Like always, I usually don't set expectation so I would be able to enjpy reading more. The premise of the story was really interesting. It was someething that I would usually read. The characters had interesting backgrounds. The book is already advertised as slow burn so I know what I am going to experience but there was certain times where I felt that the pacing was too slow. If you go in expecting a fast romance you'll be in the wrong headspace for it. The connection between them builds through proximity and small moments and the gradual lowering of defenses. Two people this guarded, given everything they're each carrying, wouldn't move fast, which in a way justified the pacing of the story. This is fundamentally a story about two people who have been through damage, one who inflicted it and one who survived it, and about what it actually takes to start over.
A huge thank you to Jennifer Smith for trusting me with an advance review copy of Override. It truly means a lot! As always, every thought and opinion shared in this review is completely honest and my own.
A huge thank you to Jennifer Smith for trusting me with an advance review copy of Override. It truly means a lot! As always, every thought and opinion shared in this review is completely honest and my own.
September 1, 2026
lowrireads arc review
Override by Jennifer Smith
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
Skee and Maeve had me hooked! 🖤 This was such an addictive mix of romance, suspense, danger, and tension. Skee is the perfect combination of brilliant, protective, and morally gray, while Maeve is a strong FMC who was so easy to root for.
If you’re a fan of morally gray heroes, hacker heroes, forced proximity, protective heroes, mafia romance, military romantic suspense, found family, and slow-burn romance, Override is definitely one to add to your TBR. 🖤🔥
I really enjoyed the emotional side of this story and watching the relationship between Skee and Maeve develop. Their chemistry kept me invested, while the suspense added that extra layer that made me want to keep turning the pages.
Overall, Override was a fun, suspenseful romance with plenty of tension, strong characters, and just the right amount of spice. 🖤
Morally grey. Protective. Suspenseful. Addictive. 🖤🔥
Thank you Jennifer Smith for the ARC in exchange for an honest review! ❤️
Override by Jennifer Smith
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
Skee and Maeve had me hooked! 🖤 This was such an addictive mix of romance, suspense, danger, and tension. Skee is the perfect combination of brilliant, protective, and morally gray, while Maeve is a strong FMC who was so easy to root for.
If you’re a fan of morally gray heroes, hacker heroes, forced proximity, protective heroes, mafia romance, military romantic suspense, found family, and slow-burn romance, Override is definitely one to add to your TBR. 🖤🔥
I really enjoyed the emotional side of this story and watching the relationship between Skee and Maeve develop. Their chemistry kept me invested, while the suspense added that extra layer that made me want to keep turning the pages.
Overall, Override was a fun, suspenseful romance with plenty of tension, strong characters, and just the right amount of spice. 🖤
Morally grey. Protective. Suspenseful. Addictive. 🖤🔥
Thank you Jennifer Smith for the ARC in exchange for an honest review! ❤️
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC READER - Thank you to Jennifer Smith for the gifted copy! All opinions are my own.
The banter was top notch and this MMC… swoon. 😍 I cannot wait for each Grayline man to get their own book!
Override had the perfect mix of banter, found family, and genuine respect and love between the characters. I loved watching the slow burn/trust build between Skee and Maeve. Nothing felt rushed, and seeing them find their way to each other made the payoff that much better.
And the Grayline crew?! I already need more of every single one of them. The friendships and found family dynamic were easily one of my favorite parts of the book. They show up for each other, give each other hell, and love just as hard...which made me even more invested in this whole series.
Jennifer Smith has once again given me characters I wasn't ready to say goodbye to, and now I'm just impatiently waiting to see which Grayline man is going to ruin me next.
The banter was top notch and this MMC… swoon. 😍 I cannot wait for each Grayline man to get their own book!
Override had the perfect mix of banter, found family, and genuine respect and love between the characters. I loved watching the slow burn/trust build between Skee and Maeve. Nothing felt rushed, and seeing them find their way to each other made the payoff that much better.
And the Grayline crew?! I already need more of every single one of them. The friendships and found family dynamic were easily one of my favorite parts of the book. They show up for each other, give each other hell, and love just as hard...which made me even more invested in this whole series.
Jennifer Smith has once again given me characters I wasn't ready to say goodbye to, and now I'm just impatiently waiting to see which Grayline man is going to ruin me next.
Review of advance copy received from Author
The Greyline men have officially stolen my heart, and I already cannot wait for the rest of this series! The banter, loyalty, respect, and found-family vibes were EVERYTHING. ❤️
Maeve is an Irish mafia princess who finds herself married to Ronan to create an alliance between families. What looks like a perfect match quickly turns into Maeve feeling trapped and losing pieces of herself along the way.
Enter Keaton (Skee), who is tasked with finding out if Ronan is really who he says he is. When he can’t find anything on Ronan, his attention turns to Maeve—and what starts as watching from a distance turns into an obsession and something neither of them expected.
I absolutely loved watching Keaton help Maeve find her voice and choices again. And the way the Greyline family welcomed her with open arms? My heart. 🥹
Such a great start to the series, and I NEED MORE Greyline men!
Thank you to Jennifer Smith for the opportunity to read this before release! 💜
Maeve is an Irish mafia princess who finds herself married to Ronan to create an alliance between families. What looks like a perfect match quickly turns into Maeve feeling trapped and losing pieces of herself along the way.
Enter Keaton (Skee), who is tasked with finding out if Ronan is really who he says he is. When he can’t find anything on Ronan, his attention turns to Maeve—and what starts as watching from a distance turns into an obsession and something neither of them expected.
I absolutely loved watching Keaton help Maeve find her voice and choices again. And the way the Greyline family welcomed her with open arms? My heart. 🥹
Such a great start to the series, and I NEED MORE Greyline men!
Thank you to Jennifer Smith for the opportunity to read this before release! 💜
Review of advance copy received from Author
Override is book one in the Grayline series. Keaton (Skee) is part of the Grayline group and is tasked with hacking and keeping an eye on our FMC Maeve's husband. Maeve has been stuck in this marriage, being completely controlled, having all her choices taken away from her. When Keaton meets her, he is completely captivated, but not in a lustful way, more like he feels she is familiar to him in some way, and he feels connected to her. Throughout the book, he becomes protective of Maeve, but also tries to always allow her to make her own decisions and not to push her to do what he wants or feels is best for her, because he recognizes that she needs that freedom to choose, after having it taken away from her for so long. The book is a romantic suspense, with military themes, hacking, an obsessed MMC, trauma, control, healing, finding strength, found family, with a sweet romance (not much spice) and lots of fun banter among the hacker team.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Override by Jennifer Smith was a fantastic start to the Grayline series! I loved the mix of suspense, danger, romance, and found-family vibes. The FMC Maeve is a strong, relatable heroine, and watching her find her independence while navigating everything thrown at her made her journey especially satisfying. Skee was definitely a standout for me. He’s protective, intelligent, and completely devoted to Maeve without taking away her ability to make her own choices. Their slow-burn connection created plenty of tension and kept me invested in their relationship. The pacing kept me turning the pages, and the twists, danger, and emotional moments made this a hard book to put down. Overall, Override is definitely worth picking up. I’m looking forward to seeing where the Grayline series goes next!
I received an ARC copy from the author themselves. Thank you for giving me the chance to read this novel and share my honest review of the novel
I received an ARC copy from the author themselves. Thank you for giving me the chance to read this novel and share my honest review of the novel
August 29, 2026
Override : Grayline Series Book 1 ) where do I even find the right words to describe how in love with this book / story I fell . Well I honestly don’t think any could possibly do this amazing story enough justice . All I can say is that I was not prepared, not at all for how utterly invested I would find myself in both Keaton and Mauves characters. And the way everything they went through together and separately just touched my heart and resonated with me on so many levels . This is not an easy story at all . Mauve has endured some pretty rough things in her life , things that have taken quite the emotional toll on her . What I absolutely adored was how Keaton had the ability to see her in a way no one else has . I loved how protective he was over her and the way they helped one another heal . This was and is such a beautiful love story that is guaranteed to grab onto your heart so easily and make you smile , laugh, cry and cheer so freaking hard .
October 14, 2026
Free and safe
Maeve and Keaton is a love story that fell in skee’s lap he was looking at her husband trying to make things happened to understand how and why this man was bad and fix the situation until one day her saw her Maeve! She was everything he didn’t think he needed and everything he wanted after learning things that were happening to her that no one knew!! Her family had no idea she was forgiving someone that was taking things away from her before she knew it! After one night he finally saw it a way in and to help her and get her out let her family know and started to fall in love with her over the months to protect her! There love story start from him saving her to her falling for a man that was never understood except is family Greyline, with that family and hers back in her life she knew she was finally safe!
Maeve and Keaton is a love story that fell in skee’s lap he was looking at her husband trying to make things happened to understand how and why this man was bad and fix the situation until one day her saw her Maeve! She was everything he didn’t think he needed and everything he wanted after learning things that were happening to her that no one knew!! Her family had no idea she was forgiving someone that was taking things away from her before she knew it! After one night he finally saw it a way in and to help her and get her out let her family know and started to fall in love with her over the months to protect her! There love story start from him saving her to her falling for a man that was never understood except is family Greyline, with that family and hers back in her life she knew she was finally safe!
Review of advance copy
Absolutely loved this book. The main female character is married but she is not in a good relationship. The main male character along with his team is hired to check into her husband but things come up and the main male characters eyes start keeping closer surveillance on the main female character. In this book the main female character learns the difference between what keeping somebody safe and keeping control over them is and that one is okay in a relationship and the other is not. This is plot filled does not have much space so if you like plot to be Forward in your books then I would definitely recommend this. The main male character also used to be in the military alongside his team and he is very much a very big techie.
August 16, 2026
ARC reader review
This book has been my favorite Jennifer Smith book to date. The Grayline boys are the perfect mix of dysfunctional friends turned family. The playful banter at each other’s expense makes me grin ear to ear. I have loved seeing Skee’s story unfold, and I can’t wait to see Wheels’ and Bullet’s stories in the future.
Skee = incredibly sexy Mr. Spock.
Maeve = gorgeous damsel in distress but can still hold her own
The story follows Skee, an analytical genius, who falls head over heels unexpectedly while trying to maintain surveillance and find patterns on his mark.
Maeve is the Irish Princess married to a shady character of a “man”, who learns how strong she can be despite her world narrowing around her.
This book has been my favorite Jennifer Smith book to date. The Grayline boys are the perfect mix of dysfunctional friends turned family. The playful banter at each other’s expense makes me grin ear to ear. I have loved seeing Skee’s story unfold, and I can’t wait to see Wheels’ and Bullet’s stories in the future.
Skee = incredibly sexy Mr. Spock.
Maeve = gorgeous damsel in distress but can still hold her own
The story follows Skee, an analytical genius, who falls head over heels unexpectedly while trying to maintain surveillance and find patterns on his mark.
Maeve is the Irish Princess married to a shady character of a “man”, who learns how strong she can be despite her world narrowing around her.
August 19, 2026
I want to start off by saying thank you to Jennifer Smith for having me on the ARC team. This book was a wonderful surprise that I didn’t know I needed. I absolutely loved it and couldn’t put it down. Normally I’m a sports romance girly, but I’m so glad I got a chance to read this knowing I may not have picked it up.
The story follows Keaton/Skee, a neurodivergent veteran who has a security company with his found family, who are hilarious by the way, and Maeve, a mafia princess whose father set up her arranged marriage with Ronan Gallagher, a complete waste of space. What starts out as a job investigation on Ronan by Skee’s team quickly turns into something more when Skee starts noticing Maeve being manipulated and day by day loosing herself. Skee immediately goes into protective mode blurring lines with both Maeve and his team.
I really loved the bond that they both created for each other. I loved all the characters, well except for Ronan and truly loved the ending. This book will have you laughing one second and crying the next. It is beautifully written, and I would honestly recommend it to everyone.
The story follows Keaton/Skee, a neurodivergent veteran who has a security company with his found family, who are hilarious by the way, and Maeve, a mafia princess whose father set up her arranged marriage with Ronan Gallagher, a complete waste of space. What starts out as a job investigation on Ronan by Skee’s team quickly turns into something more when Skee starts noticing Maeve being manipulated and day by day loosing herself. Skee immediately goes into protective mode blurring lines with both Maeve and his team.
I really loved the bond that they both created for each other. I loved all the characters, well except for Ronan and truly loved the ending. This book will have you laughing one second and crying the next. It is beautifully written, and I would honestly recommend it to everyone.
Review of advance copy received from Author
REVIEW OF ADVANCED COPY
WOW! This book dragged me all the way in from the beginning.
Maeve’s story didn’t start out so great she’s an Irish mafia princess who doesn’t realize how trapped she is until her husband goes to far but in the end she found love, found family, she ends up coming out stronger than she ever thought she was.
Keaton(Skee) is obsessive, stalking, and can’t stop watching her. A protective hacker with a hidden obsession that I really loved about him. He found love, he was her safe space and most of all he was everything she didn’t know she needed.
This series is going to be great and I can’t wait for more!
WOW! This book dragged me all the way in from the beginning.
Maeve’s story didn’t start out so great she’s an Irish mafia princess who doesn’t realize how trapped she is until her husband goes to far but in the end she found love, found family, she ends up coming out stronger than she ever thought she was.
Keaton(Skee) is obsessive, stalking, and can’t stop watching her. A protective hacker with a hidden obsession that I really loved about him. He found love, he was her safe space and most of all he was everything she didn’t know she needed.
This series is going to be great and I can’t wait for more!
Review of advance copy received from Author
~ARC READER~
I started this book not being fully convinced, as it isn’t my typical pick. But I was extremely surprised when I caught myself unable to put it down and finishing it in two days. Maeve is a mafia princess whom recently married a man for a family alliance. Slowly Maeve begins losing control of her own life and is unable to live in the restrictions of the abusive relationship. That is, until she meets Keaton who is doing surveillance on her husband for another colleague. Things get out of hand and Keaton is left to decide whether he follows orders and lets her go, or go against everything and rescue her himself.
I started this book not being fully convinced, as it isn’t my typical pick. But I was extremely surprised when I caught myself unable to put it down and finishing it in two days. Maeve is a mafia princess whom recently married a man for a family alliance. Slowly Maeve begins losing control of her own life and is unable to live in the restrictions of the abusive relationship. That is, until she meets Keaton who is doing surveillance on her husband for another colleague. Things get out of hand and Keaton is left to decide whether he follows orders and lets her go, or go against everything and rescue her himself.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Jennifer Smith is fairly new to me, but the two books I’ve read so far definitely won’t be the last. Each one had me fully locked in, fully curious, fully invested in what would happen next.
This book, Override, was so freaking good. The MMC is the perfect protective marshmallow, soft where she needs softness, fierce where she needs safety and he gives the FMC every bit of opportunity she was denied before. Watching him make space for her choices, her voice, her healing? I’ll buy that book every time!
This is a gripping, emotional, balanced story with a hero who protects without being overpowering, and a heroine who finally gets to reclaim her own narrative. Absolutely worth the read.
This book, Override, was so freaking good. The MMC is the perfect protective marshmallow, soft where she needs softness, fierce where she needs safety and he gives the FMC every bit of opportunity she was denied before. Watching him make space for her choices, her voice, her healing? I’ll buy that book every time!
This is a gripping, emotional, balanced story with a hero who protects without being overpowering, and a heroine who finally gets to reclaim her own narrative. Absolutely worth the read.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I went into this not knowing what to expect, but glad I did. I really enjoyed reading this book. While it's not on the spicy side of romance, the protectiveness that Keaton (Skee) has over Maeve is swoon worthy. Keaton is part of an elite security group and is the hacker of the group. He gets an assignment to check out Ronan, Maeve's husband. But in doing so he becomes invested in Maeve instantly. And Maeve, bless her she broke my heart with how so was losing herself in her marriage. I absolutely loved how Keaton gave Maeve her choice back, in every aspect of her life.
Thank you, Jennifer Smith, for the opportunity to read this book. Look forward to the continuation of Greyline
Thank you, Jennifer Smith, for the opportunity to read this book. Look forward to the continuation of Greyline
September 11, 2026
Got 18% but couldn’t handle the formulaic writing style.
It got predictable, annoying, and exhausting to read. I was sick of the constant descriptions of
“BLANK. not because of X. Because Y. Z. And A, B, C.”
That exact paragraph structure was just repeated over and over again. And added zero to the story just made everything longwinded.
And all of the dialogue scenes were the same formula too. Everyone said the same things. Like,
“Fair.”
Or
“That sentence right there tells me I should worry.”
Literally multiple different characters said the same things. So no one’s voice felt unique. And it was confusing.
It got predictable, annoying, and exhausting to read. I was sick of the constant descriptions of
“BLANK. not because of X. Because Y. Z. And A, B, C.”
That exact paragraph structure was just repeated over and over again. And added zero to the story just made everything longwinded.
And all of the dialogue scenes were the same formula too. Everyone said the same things. Like,
“Fair.”
Or
“That sentence right there tells me I should worry.”
Literally multiple different characters said the same things. So no one’s voice felt unique. And it was confusing.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Mauve is being controlled but it is presented under the guise of protection. But is it really when you feel you are suffocating in your own marriage -- an arranged marriage to form an alliance -- and you are slowly being isolated from all that you know.
Keaton is tasked to investigate Mauve's husband, Ronan, to ensure he is legitimate, but he is unable to find anything. So, he turns his attention to Mauve and he is captivated, watching from afar.
A slow burn romance that is based upon respect and free will. An enjoyable read and a great start to this series.
Keaton is tasked to investigate Mauve's husband, Ronan, to ensure he is legitimate, but he is unable to find anything. So, he turns his attention to Mauve and he is captivated, watching from afar.
A slow burn romance that is based upon respect and free will. An enjoyable read and a great start to this series.
August 29, 2026
Jennifer Smith never disappoints! 5 stars definitely recommend!
The suspense and relief rollercoaster are done perfectly!
The spice also gives you just the right amount while also leaving room for imagination!
I’ve been a fan of Jennifer’s writing/books and will continue to be a fan!
One of my fave quotes from the book:
“Always. His thumbs move gently over my cheeks. If you whisper my name today. I’ll hear you. A tear slides beneath one of his thumbs. If you whisper it next week. I’ll hear you. His eyes never leave mine. Next month. Next year. It doesn’t matter.”
The suspense and relief rollercoaster are done perfectly!
The spice also gives you just the right amount while also leaving room for imagination!
I’ve been a fan of Jennifer’s writing/books and will continue to be a fan!
One of my fave quotes from the book:
“Always. His thumbs move gently over my cheeks. If you whisper my name today. I’ll hear you. A tear slides beneath one of his thumbs. If you whisper it next week. I’ll hear you. His eyes never leave mine. Next month. Next year. It doesn’t matter.”
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