Rhys lives a life of solitude — one he’s perfectly content with. That is until his friend Vinny is found murdered. There are secrets and half-truths at every corner, but he’s determined to find out what happened.
Averill is exactly where she wants to be in life after years of running. She’s opened her own boutique and can finally breathe again. She thought she was safe… until her world collides with the dark shadows of Rhys’.
When he unknowingly puts her in the path of a serial killer, will he be able to protect her? Even if it means becoming the killer he’s trained to be?
D.B. James is an indie author of new adult romance and romantic suspense. In her spare time, she’s an avid reader. Colleen Hoover, Tarryn Fisher, KA Tucker, Linda Kage, Renee Carlino, Jennifer Armentrout, Sarah J Maas, and Samantha Young are a few of her obsessions. She is a mother to one spoiled rotten fur baby named Frasier. He’s a bicolored Persian cat who thinks he’s royalty and can’t be told otherwise. She’s a Michigan girl through and through but currently resides in sunny Florida. Sarcasm, Supernatural (team Sam!), Harry Potter, Riverdale and coffee are among her favorite things.
"RHYS" IS A CAN'T-PUT-DOWN BOOK WITH EVERYTHING YOU COULD ASK FOR IN AN EXCELLENT READ!!!
I am absolutely hooked!!! I did not want this book to end. DB James was an author new to me until reading "Rhys". I am now a HUGE fan and cannot wait to read more of her work.
"Rhys" is PHENOMENAL!!! I was hooked from the jump, as soon as I started the Prologue. It was intriguing, mysterious, and I HAD to find out how and why Rhys, the main character, found himself in a situation he appeared to unknowingly be in. Although Rhys is a lawyer by education, he hasn't yet launched into his law career. He is just establishing a practice, just found a partner to share his firm with, and they are moving into their new space. He has another job on the side that has helped him financially while putting the pieces together to get his law practice up and running. He doesn't lead an average life whatsoever and certainly does not fit a stereotypical mold of an attorney, or any other working professional for that matter. The mystery surrounding Rhys and what he does to make his money is unknown to most everyone, including those closest to him. Even his best friend, Brant, knows just enough, but not too much. He knows not to ask too many questions. He knows not to try to discuss assignments with Rhys. He knows to be quiet once the phone call comes in from the Boss. And when it does, he's come to notice Rhys's disposition and attitude change and harden immediately. He also knows when the Boss has a job for Rhys, Rhys has to drop everything in his life, no matter what it is. He has been given an ORDER; it is not up for discussion, and Rhys is obligated to do whatever the boss says, when he says. PERIOD. This isn't a client calling from jail, not his new partner from their recently established law firm, and most certainly not the girlfriend who has come back into his life. When that call comes in, it is THE BOSS on the other end of the line. But it is those orders and the nature of Rhys's job that gets him into terribly compromising and deadly situations. It isn't until Averill, his childhood girlfriend who has never left Rhys's thoughts or heart (and vice versa), returns to his life and becomes part of an increasingly difficult and frightening job, that Rhys is paralyzed with fear of what he has done and what it may ultimately cost him.
"Rhys" is a book you won't want to put down once you start. It keeps you guessing, hoping and wanting to find out what is going to happen next. If you like a fast-paced book with parts mystery, thriller, crime, love story, friendship, and more, add this to your TBR!!! Go NOW and 1-click this one!!! Do NOT wait!!! "Rhys" is absolutely amazing and well worth the purchase. Like me, I think you will find DB James's work is impressive. "RHYS" IS A CAN'T-PUT-DOWN BOOK WITH EVERYTHING YOU COULD ASK FOR IN AN EXCELLENT READ!!! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
It is very exciting for me when I find a new author who writes the type of stories I like to read. Rhys is the second book by DB James and the first one of hers I’ve had the pleasure to read. I must warn you in advance that my review will be sketchy because it is one of those books that the reader needs to experience.
Rhys (Reese) is a second-chance/ friends-to-lovers story with a massive dose of mystery and thriller added in for good measure. From the very first page, the story is captivating but weird. That isn’t a bad thing, so I need to explain.
Rhys Nathanial Gallagher is a weird guy when we meet him. There isn’t any other way to describe him. He explains that his name is pronounced “Reese” not “Rice” that gave him the childhood nickname of Reeses Pieces. He has quirks that make him unique, and it 's hard to get a handle on who the man is and what he does for a living.
The story is told from Rhys’ point of view. Therefore, all the details unfold in his time as he wants to reveal them. There is no doubt that he has a boatload of secrets. There is also no doubt that he is not happy with his life.
He is estranged from his parents because his father disowned him for not staying in the Army. Army life wasn’t for Rhys. He did his four and then out. His father being a lifer isn’t pleased. His only friend is Brant some he’s known since childhood. Brant is like a brother and knows most of Rhys’ secrets.
One morning because his coffee maker is still broken he stops at the coffee shop and runs into another old childhood friend, Averill Lily Fitzgerald. Rhys, Averill, and Brant were very close as kids. It doesn’t take long for the old flames ignite and circumstances unfold that bring out Rhys’ protective nature.
The fact that the story is told from Rhys’ point of view adds to the mystery because everything is revealed in his time and we only learn what he wants us to know. Using the single point of view adds more anxiety because Rhys presents so many questions that can play out in multiple ways. The reader isn’t sure what is going to happen next. The tone is tense there is obviously something sinister about Rhys but is he a bad person?
I like the secondary characters. I can see Justin and Brant having a book of their own. I don’t know if that is the author’s plan, but they are interesting characters. It feels like Rhys and Averill are setting up Brant and Tessa. Is their relationship going to play out in another book?
I did feel that there are a few unanswered questions regarding some of the events around Rhys’ parents’ reasoning for the estrangement. I don’t think I completely understand the letters. It is possible that I’m a little dense here. I also don’t get Justin’s initial behavior. I’m not sure I buy Martinelli’s actions near the end, but hey; it’s fiction, so I gave it a handwave.
All-in-all I like the story. DB James is an excellent writer, and I look forward to seeing what other stories she has for us. If you like a good love story with good guys and bad guys, a few twists, and tense moments from start to finish Rhys is a good thriller for you.
I really enjoyed this book. It took me about two chapters to really get into it, but after that the story was really good. Characters were very well developed and I enjoyed the story line itself. As much of an ass as Rhys is at first you kinda can't help but to like him lol. 4.5 stars in my opinion
*Read more of my reviews at Whoo Gives A Hoot* Wow. Can I just say WOW! Yet another book that left me completely speechless from the beginning to the end. This book was what I like to call a real page turner and it immediately captured my full attention. The opening scene in the prologue really gets the readers thinking about the underlining premise of the story and leaves them wondering what will happen next --- behind every turn. At least that was the case for me.
Rhys was the very first book that I've read from this extraordinary author and I can't wait to see what other titles this author has to offer. The author has a strong understanding at character development and knows how to keep her readers on the edge of their seats until the very end! There wasn't a dull moment in the entire novel and I would consider it to be a relatively quick read even though it technically took me a few days to read because of my hectic schedule. This storyline has so many factors that contribute to the characters background and essentially added so much more to the story!
Overall, if you are looking for a book that is filled full of mystery and suspense then this is the book for you because it has all of that and more!
This is the first book I've read by this author. An I really enjoyed it. It's got the mystery, twist an turns. An something's that have you going huh? Such a great suspenseful story.
At first the book kind of took me for a loop. Rhys is a secretive guy. I was trying to figure out what it is that he does. He's his own man and does what he does. He lives his life for him. Sure he helps friends when needed but other then that it's just him. An he's perfectly ok with that. That is until he runs into one of his old friends from his childhood.
Averill has found a life that she wants. She's been running for years and now she has settled down and opened her own business. She feels like she can be herself, not having to look over her shoulder. She feels safe for the first time forever. Then she runs into Rhys, she never thought in a million years that she would see him again. But then somehow her whole world turns upside down. Someone wants her dead and she just wants her simple life back.
This book kept me guessing for the first page. I just couldn't put it down. Just had to know what was going to happen next. An I loved the all male pov. Can't wait to see what's next for this author.
The prologue sucks you into this book. full of questions and want those answers.
Averill is a girl trying to rebuild her life. She's exploring her dream of owing her own clothing store after a series of tragic events shook her to her very core. She was an army brat and didn't have many chances to make lasting friends. One person who has always stuck in her mind and in her heart was Rhys.
Rhys was an army brat as well and did 4 years in the force as well. There he learned a special set of skills (sounds like Liam Neesen) and used those skills for less than law abiding reasons yet he was a lawyer at the heart of it all. On one of his famous coffee runs he spies his Tiger Lily and from there sparks fly.
I did enjoy this book but at times it kind of seemed to drag i wanted to get to the juicy part. I wasn't let down. The chemistry between these two was sizzling. The only real issue I had was the ending seemed quick. All in all it was a good read with a nice mystery attached.
This review has been overdue. Rhys has been an emotional rollercoaster from all the crazy that happened. D.B James has created a character that his witty sarcasm makes you fall in love with his smirks, and smug smiles. His bickering with his friend Brant is hilariously funny that I envy it. The way Averill’s life knocks him off his comfortable/ not so comfortable routine, has added more character development that you feel the character is growing in front of your eyes. What I want to say is that Rhys’s so Fuckin sexy and not in man-cave sexy but under all that Big Body is a teddy bear (he’ll hate me for that) that just can’t wait to give some love to you. P.S. That cover though!!! <3
I can't even with this book! It hit me in all the right places! It's everything a book should be! Without spilling out too much information I can tell you there is love, excitement, passion and parts that make you sit on the edge of your seat! I never wanted to know more about a character! D.B. has written this so well making you turn every page because you HAVE to know more. I spent nights in bed reading knowing that I had to be up early, but I couldn't help myself! Those are the kind of authors you want to write everything you read, the ones that leave you wanting more with every page! It's mysterious tangled with love and comedy all in one! If I could give it more than 5 stars I would!!!
I received the book to specifically post a review for a group I'm part of, and I am SO GLAD! I stayed up all night reading. I needed to know what happened. The story is so gripping. Rhys is a good guy gone bad for noble reasons. Averill is the best kind of female main character... having gone through traumatic events and still a strong smart mouthed woman. I can't wait to read her story tonight! I do have a list of others I need to review, but they will need to wait I HAVE TO hear Averills story from her.
This was a different type of book for me, and I'm glad that I ventured out. At first I had a hard time getting involved in the book, which is how I tend to read. It took me a few times of picking this story up to actually get through the first few chapters...after the prologue. Rhys is a great character! I absolutely love dual POV stories, but this book needed to be told just from Rhys's POV. As things start to come to light throughout the story, it gets harder and harder to put down. So while it took me a few days to read it, I ended up really liking the story. Can't wait to read the story from Averill's POV!
I received a copy of this book for a honest review. Think I should start by warning that if you do not like violence this book IS NOT FOR YOU!! This book comes full circle in sooooo many ways it keeps you guessing the entire way through it. This story is very well written and you really get a sense of each character and who they are as you go along. Not your typical mob associate, not your typical former soldier, and by no means your typical love story.
this book had me on the edge of my set.. literally. I was gifted and advance copy. and that does not effect my rating of this novel.
this author blew me away with the writing, the characters not so much and that's why I gave it 4 stars Instead of 5. this book was one of those gems that are hidden but once you found it, it shines like a diamond.
Rhys is a fantastic story! This is my first book by D.B. James and it will most certainly not be my last. This book will definitely keep you on the edge of your seat and you will not be able to put your device down until you hit the end. It has crazy excitement, passion, romance, and characters that make this story feel real. D.B. James writes so well you just get sucked into the story. I highly recommend this story!! I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
Normally, I'm not much of a darker romance kind of person. So I had reservations about reading Rhys. DB James captured my attention with well written characters and a great storyline. I defiantly recommend this book.
After reading the prologue I was intrigued and had to keep reading to see who this character was and if he had done the unthinkable. I'm glad he turned out to be a person much different than what I originally thought. This was a quick, easy read and a new author for me! Will be looking forward to more books, and hopefully more stories about these characters!
What a read ! The cover art is epic ! The prolog left me breathless and feeling like WTF?! An absolute brilliant start to a fantastic read !
Go back in time , 18 months .....
We meet Rhys , our caffeine loving Mr Hotness and already he's won me over and he'll how can I not like him , if he's this intense about coffee how's he going to be with a woman ?!
A new author to me, Rhys by DB James will be a firm favourite on my kindle for a while to come I can assure you. From almost the first chapter this was one that simply could put down. I loved the fact that it was told in from Rhys’s point of view, he was a challenging characters to say the least but it was very entertaining getting to experience things from his perspective. I will say straight away that you need to give him a little leeway, he isn’t an easy man and you may very well find him a little on the tetchy side but stick with him! Happy in his own company, Rhys is content with his limited social interaction and his slim social circle that following the death of his friend Vinny, tips him over the edge almost, he is absolutely determined to find out who killed him and why? Averill was a light in Rhys world that appeared when he least expected it. And after a lifetime of looking over her shoulder she thought she was finally safe enough, settled in her own skin and until Rhys that was probably all she would have wanted but there was a chemistry between the two of them that drew the pair of them together and that despite the danger that lurks in Rhys’s life, refuse to allow them to stay away. If only she knew the impact that being with a guy like Rhys would have on her life and the danger that loving a man like him would put her in. Rhys never thought that he would be the guy responsible for bringing danger to Averill’s door but now he has, what can he do to make sure that she remains safe? As irritating as Rhys was initially I have to say that he came good in the long run and why he was reluctant to resort to the man that he had tried to keep under wraps for so long, he knew that with Averill …everything was different!
I read the blurb to this story and it intrigued me, but I never saw the amazing goodness coming for me. I'm not going to describe any part of it, as it has tons of secrets, and I don't want to ruin it for anyone, because I truly believe it's better to experience this awesomeness without any preconceived notions from the peanut gallery. D.B. James has a very talented writing style that drew me in from the very beginning, and held me hostage, all the while keeping my heart racing uncontrollably. Her diabolical twists and turns kept me on my toes trying to figure everything out before all was revealed, which made for some very loud f-bomb dropping moments along the way. Now I must close this short review out, as I have the urge to start spilling everything because this book was so great for me, and I want everyone to feel the same way. I CANNOT WAIT to see what this author puts out next, but in the meantime, I HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND this exciting read!
A great new read from an author new to me. Rhys knows he's broken, having traveled down a path he would have never thought he would go down in order to find out more about why a friend was killed. When a chance meeting at a Starbuck's brings him a friend from his childhood he knows it will be more than just friendship. Averill remembers a different Rhys than the one she encounters in the Starbuck's, but when he says she can help him find the old him she thinks he can help her get back her feisty Tiger-Lily that he remembers. Two lost and broken souls will come together and fit together to escape the evil that has touched both their lives. I loved Rhys and Averill, not to mention the friends they have. Bryant, Rhys's best friend, can be a comic relief when things get too heavy with the wisecracking and nicknames he and Rhys have for each other. Tessa, Averill's friend, is the wild to Averill's cautious. This story is well written, fast paced and had me hooked from the beginning. I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
This was such a page turner from the prologue I was hooked wanted to know how it got to that point and was nervous . I thought it was interesting to see a hole book in a male Pov and I thought it was awesome to be in his head and to see what he is going throw . The main characters nicknames for one another was so adorable . The characters developed really well they each had scares they each other grow and I found that beautiful ,You could fell the chemistry that Rhys and Averill had (unique names by the way ) . This would be my first read by D.B. James and I know I'll be reading more from . copy provided for honest review **************************************** hero = 9 heroine = 9 secondary characters = 9 chemistry = 10 steam = 9 character development = 10+ pacing = 10 enjoyment =10 writing style =10 storyline =10 romance =8 darkness level =6 humor =6 pov= hero ending = hea cover =10 stars = 4.5 author = 9 would I recommend this book =yes would I re read this book = yes would I read future books by this author = yes
Rhys is a broken secretive man, who only lives for himself, when he bumps into a childhood friend Averill, who has been on the run for years, and after settling down and starting her own business, feels safe for the first time. Finding out that someone is after Averill, Rhys wants to help and protect her. This is a fast paced, well written storyline, which has mystery, twists & turns, humour, and friendship. This author never disappoints with her work, and I was hooked and intrigued throughout. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book!
A definite improvement on this author's debut book it read so much better.
Rhy's was dark without being to dark, he has an air of mystery wrapped around a really sweet guy and he is loyal to a fault. Averill or Tigerlily which I prefer is a woman of many emotions and feelings and after everything she has lived through I get that.
Brant is a great friend but a question is he the one who stopped Rhys getting the letters from his parents that part was never solved and its annoying.
I loved this book from start to finish. To read a story totally from the male POV is awesome. Rhys is such a secretive man but with a heart of gold. The romance and mystery in this book make it a huge page turner. DB James is a new author to me but after this amazing story, she will be added to my list of must-read authors.
I love Rhys. D.B. James was a new to me author, but quickly became a fave. The way the story evolves is what caught me. I love how we are able to see it from his point of view and get a taste of what makes him the way he is. It takes a few chapters to get into it, but then it doesn't let up. It was very well-written and the hook was amazing. I will definitely be reading more by this author now. If you need a new romantic suspense, give this one a try. You won't be disappointed.
A MUST READ! This book has everything.. romance, suspense and a little twist. Loved this book so hard! A must read! I loved Seventeen Days but this book is so much more! D.B. definitely came into her own writing this book! Can't wait to see what she comes up with next!