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Ripple Effect #1-4
Ripple Effect
From the author of Ricochet and Backfire comes a dark and gritty alpha male romance, set in the Chicago underground. What happens when a ruthless killer with no conscience takes in an irresistible young drug addict on the run from dangerous men? Ripley They call me RIP. I’m a killer. A murderer. A psychopath. In the eyes of the righteous, I’m a monster, born of sin and depravity. I want to protect her, but I’m not a good man. I want to love her, but I no longer feel. She gets under my skin, though, and has awakened something inside of me. Something I’d kill for. I’m not her savior—not even close. In fact, I’m worse than the hell she’s already suffered. I’m her vengeance. Tit for tat, as they say. And if she’s not careful, I’ll be her ruin. Dylan For months, I’ve watched him. I’ve fantasized him as my savior, my lover. My ticket out of the hell I’ve lived in for the last six years. I never dreamed he’d be my nightmare. Had I known what he really is, I’d have never gotten in the car that night, but life is full of cause and effect. And sometimes the choice on offer isn’t a choice at all. It’s the result of something already in motion, and we’re merely left to survive the ripple effect. RIPPLE EFFECT is a full-length, standalone dark hitman romance. Comes with a link and password to steamy bonus scene.
490 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 25, 2017
286 people are currently reading
1487 people want to read
About the author
Keri Lake
43 books15.5k followersAuthor of gothic romance who specializes in demon wrangling, vengeance dealing and wicked twists.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 139 reviews
August 31, 2017
★4.5 RIPPLE STARS★
Ripple Effect is a gripping dark and delicious read full of action, suspense, and complex characters. This is the tale of Dylan and Rip. Be forewarned, once you enter this twisted world, you will not be able to put it down until you stop. Previously released in four separate novellas, Ms. Lake now offers the entire collection in one epic book!
Told in dual POV, Ripple Effect is a perfect blend of action and romance. Ripley and Dylan are perfectly matched, and the dynamics of their relationship are complex and thoroughly explored. The plot is full of twists and turns, and each intricate piece is creatively weaved together as the story progresses. The dialogue and tempo flow naturally and the action is driven by Ripley's desire to protect the ones he loves. The sexual chemistry between Ripley and Dylan is explosive, and together they are unstoppable.
Overall, Ripple Effect is an absolute must read for contemporary romance fans who like a dark hero and enjoy the nail biting action. Ms. Lake is an excellent storyteller, and I always find myself invested in the characters she creates. There is nothing better than being swept away by a great story and Ripley, and Dylan is one couple that I will never forget!
For more reviews/reveals/giveaways visit:
"Every decision you make affects every moment that follows. It's like a ripple effect."
Ripple Effect is a gripping dark and delicious read full of action, suspense, and complex characters. This is the tale of Dylan and Rip. Be forewarned, once you enter this twisted world, you will not be able to put it down until you stop. Previously released in four separate novellas, Ms. Lake now offers the entire collection in one epic book!
"I'd kill a motherfucker for ever hurting you, and that includes myself."
"You're gonna feel everything. Everything, baby."Dylan has been through hell. Abandoned, beaten, abused, she has found strength by clinging to her dog and the fact that she is almost eighteen and will be able to escape the hell she is living in. When suddenly her circumstances take a quick turn for the worse, Dylan finds herself tangled up in the arms of a killer.
"As long as you're mine, nothing touches you."Rip is a killer. An assassin who lives his life in the shadows, he has never needed anyone. Making kills, fighting, and spending his money on women has been all that he has needed until he meets Dylan. Dylan and Rip crash together in the most unlikely situations and although they are both fighters who have been able to survive so much, will they be able to survive each other?
Told in dual POV, Ripple Effect is a perfect blend of action and romance. Ripley and Dylan are perfectly matched, and the dynamics of their relationship are complex and thoroughly explored. The plot is full of twists and turns, and each intricate piece is creatively weaved together as the story progresses. The dialogue and tempo flow naturally and the action is driven by Ripley's desire to protect the ones he loves. The sexual chemistry between Ripley and Dylan is explosive, and together they are unstoppable.
Overall, Ripple Effect is an absolute must read for contemporary romance fans who like a dark hero and enjoy the nail biting action. Ms. Lake is an excellent storyteller, and I always find myself invested in the characters she creates. There is nothing better than being swept away by a great story and Ripley, and Dylan is one couple that I will never forget!
For more reviews/reveals/giveaways visit:
May 1, 2021
4/28/21
Fourth Reread
3/7/19
Upgrade to 5 stars
Since this is my third time reading this book I have decided to upgrade my rating. I loved this book the third time around just as much as the first. I love Ripley and Dylan and I can't wait for more.
4.5 stars
10/22/17
I'm going to keep this short since this is a reread for me and I already reviewed each episode. I loved this book. Ripley is absolutely delicious and Dylan is awesome. Their chemistry is super hot and they are perfect together. I loved how even though Dylan is young she is very mature and strong. Ripley is a killer but Dylan changes him slowly as the story progresses. He's still a killer but his feelings for Dylan slowly start to go from obsession to love. This is definitely a book I would recommend.
Fourth Reread
3/7/19
Upgrade to 5 stars
Since this is my third time reading this book I have decided to upgrade my rating. I loved this book the third time around just as much as the first. I love Ripley and Dylan and I can't wait for more.
4.5 stars
10/22/17
I'm going to keep this short since this is a reread for me and I already reviewed each episode. I loved this book. Ripley is absolutely delicious and Dylan is awesome. Their chemistry is super hot and they are perfect together. I loved how even though Dylan is young she is very mature and strong. Ripley is a killer but Dylan changes him slowly as the story progresses. He's still a killer but his feelings for Dylan slowly start to go from obsession to love. This is definitely a book I would recommend.
July 27, 2017
***** 4.5 Stars *****
Ripple Effect is dark, twisted, and full of suspense. I couldn't put this down.
Dylan may be a young girl, but she is smart and experienced in life. Everyday is a struggle. With drugs and abusive adults in every corner, she can't escape. She can never escape.
The only time she drifts off and dreams of a different life is when she looks at a man below her window. A mysterious man facing her from a diner.
Ripley is skilled in many areas. Torturing. Killing. He can't show any weaknesses... but Dylan becomes his addiction.
The attraction between them is dark and painful. This is a must read! I hope that there will be some spin-offs. Bravo Keri Lake!
Ripple Effect is dark, twisted, and full of suspense. I couldn't put this down.
Dylan may be a young girl, but she is smart and experienced in life. Everyday is a struggle. With drugs and abusive adults in every corner, she can't escape. She can never escape.
The only time she drifts off and dreams of a different life is when she looks at a man below her window. A mysterious man facing her from a diner.
Ripley is skilled in many areas. Torturing. Killing. He can't show any weaknesses... but Dylan becomes his addiction.
The attraction between them is dark and painful. This is a must read! I hope that there will be some spin-offs. Bravo Keri Lake!
July 26, 2017
4.5 Stars... working on review
could-not-finish
January 17, 201885% DNF. So close to the finish line, but I just can't push through.
My one and only issue is that I don't like that the hero's POV is given in first person. The hero is a killer. He's supposed to be emotionless but he doesn't come off that way to me each time he refers to himself as a killer. If his pov was given in the third person narrative, he would come off as more detached, and therefore, more badass. That's just me. I know I'm in the minority but oh well...
My one and only issue is that I don't like that the hero's POV is given in first person. The hero is a killer. He's supposed to be emotionless but he doesn't come off that way to me each time he refers to himself as a killer. If his pov was given in the third person narrative, he would come off as more detached, and therefore, more badass. That's just me. I know I'm in the minority but oh well...
July 21, 2017
5 BUTTERFLY STARS
Review @ Vanilla & Spice Books
Sometimes I like to venture into the darker corners of my mind with the help of a super talented author. When I hear Keri Lake has a new book coming out I'll hand over the reins and let her take me out of my comfort zone. I trust her to make me squirm uncomfortably...and still have a good time.
Dylan is only a few weeks away from her 18th birthday and it can't come quick enough. At the hand of her uncle she suffers unmentionable abuse which she only bears in a drugged up stupor and barely remembers what happened afterwards. Her mother died of a drug overdose, or that's what authorities want her to believe, and her father committed suicide. Dylan's only tether to a semblance of normalcy and the one being she cares most about is her dog Charlie. After another horrific experience with her uncle she has had enough and flees the filthy apartment. Having no money to get by is a problem so what's a girl to do?
Ripley is a hitman for one of the mob families competing for power in Chicago. When he follows one of his targets he observes a girl getting into the car of the man he is supposed to kill. He saves her from being raped and killed...and is bemused. Rip doesn't *save* people. He tortures them, makes them beg for a merciful death without remorse. This girl, though, is an enigma to him. She is innocent and yet she isn't, she is naive and still streetwise. Ripley doesn't need witnesses yet he sends her off on her way...but...he can't stop thinking about her. So what's a guy to do?
If you think loving a man like Rip is impossible let me tell you - it isn't. In some twisted logic Keri Lake makes you believe that this cold blooded, obviously psychopathic killer is deep down a good man. He is ruthless, twisted, charismatic and single minded in his focus on his target. Dylan brings out the tender feelings inside of him he didn't think he had. Is he gentle with her? Far from it. Their love is raw, violent and volatile.
Dylan is a contradiction of naiveté and experience, innocence and jadedness, toughness and vulnerability. She fascinates the cruel Ripley and soon he finds himself entangled in a relationship with an expiry date. The more time he spends with her the more he obsesses about her and the more possessive he gets. And can I say he is HOT? Because, damn, he is!
Dylan is probably my favorite heroine by Keri Lake as of yet. She is strong with enough softness, sweetness and vulnerability to make her relatable. She has a youth about her that belies the darkness inside her. I don't think I would have survived the atrocities she experienced in her young life. Together Dylan and Rip are explosive but if you look closely there is a gentle side to their relationship that comes unexpected. I adored how they took care of each other, how these two broken souls fell in love and made sense despite their darkness.
Keri Lake's gritty writing is flawless as usual. She tackles a very real and uncomfortable subject and passes with flying colors. The mood is intense. Sinister, brutal and raw and not for the faint of heart, yet in the end you'll find yourself deeply in love with a brutal killer and the love of his life.
If you haven't read a book by this author yet and love grungy and gritty tales I urge you to pick up one of her stories. You won't regret it.
Review @ Vanilla & Spice Books
Sometimes I like to venture into the darker corners of my mind with the help of a super talented author. When I hear Keri Lake has a new book coming out I'll hand over the reins and let her take me out of my comfort zone. I trust her to make me squirm uncomfortably...and still have a good time.
Dylan is only a few weeks away from her 18th birthday and it can't come quick enough. At the hand of her uncle she suffers unmentionable abuse which she only bears in a drugged up stupor and barely remembers what happened afterwards. Her mother died of a drug overdose, or that's what authorities want her to believe, and her father committed suicide. Dylan's only tether to a semblance of normalcy and the one being she cares most about is her dog Charlie. After another horrific experience with her uncle she has had enough and flees the filthy apartment. Having no money to get by is a problem so what's a girl to do?
Ripley is a hitman for one of the mob families competing for power in Chicago. When he follows one of his targets he observes a girl getting into the car of the man he is supposed to kill. He saves her from being raped and killed...and is bemused. Rip doesn't *save* people. He tortures them, makes them beg for a merciful death without remorse. This girl, though, is an enigma to him. She is innocent and yet she isn't, she is naive and still streetwise. Ripley doesn't need witnesses yet he sends her off on her way...but...he can't stop thinking about her. So what's a guy to do?
If you think loving a man like Rip is impossible let me tell you - it isn't. In some twisted logic Keri Lake makes you believe that this cold blooded, obviously psychopathic killer is deep down a good man. He is ruthless, twisted, charismatic and single minded in his focus on his target. Dylan brings out the tender feelings inside of him he didn't think he had. Is he gentle with her? Far from it. Their love is raw, violent and volatile.
And as much as I fear that my demons will ultimately tear her apart, the disturbing reality is, they’d probably get drunk with hers and have a fucking orgy together.
Dylan is a contradiction of naiveté and experience, innocence and jadedness, toughness and vulnerability. She fascinates the cruel Ripley and soon he finds himself entangled in a relationship with an expiry date. The more time he spends with her the more he obsesses about her and the more possessive he gets. And can I say he is HOT? Because, damn, he is!
“This is what fascinates me about you. Doesn’t matter that you’re tied to a bed in a basement, facing all variety of gruesome outcomes, you never lose that spitfire attitude.”
Dylan is probably my favorite heroine by Keri Lake as of yet. She is strong with enough softness, sweetness and vulnerability to make her relatable. She has a youth about her that belies the darkness inside her. I don't think I would have survived the atrocities she experienced in her young life. Together Dylan and Rip are explosive but if you look closely there is a gentle side to their relationship that comes unexpected. I adored how they took care of each other, how these two broken souls fell in love and made sense despite their darkness.
Merciless and merciful. Wild and broken. He’s a raging fire, with the inclination to destroy whatever gets in his path, and I’m nothing but a small scrap of kindling. Yet the way he stares at me with such reverence, makes me feel like I’m the one holding the match.
Keri Lake's gritty writing is flawless as usual. She tackles a very real and uncomfortable subject and passes with flying colors. The mood is intense. Sinister, brutal and raw and not for the faint of heart, yet in the end you'll find yourself deeply in love with a brutal killer and the love of his life.
If you haven't read a book by this author yet and love grungy and gritty tales I urge you to pick up one of her stories. You won't regret it.
July 26, 2017
Ripple Effect (A Novel 1-4) by Keri Lake
5 stars!!!
Boy, am I glad that I didn’t read this piece meal. Ripple Effect was 466 pages of dark, gritty, angsty, twisted, raw, emotional, dirty, unputdownable deliciousness. I inhaled this book, pulled an all-nighter and seriously could not put it down. From the first to last page this book had me rapt. Rip and Dylan were intoxicating, one of my favourite book couples…ever! I just clicked with these two, two seriously fucked up individuals and yet together they were just “normal.” Well, as normal as a contract killer and a broken eighteen-year-old sex trade victim could be. Seriously, these two were explosive, intoxicating, brutal yet so damn perfect.
Keri Lake is renowned for her dark reads and she doesn’t disappoint with this one. This is seriously dark, extremely descriptive and certainly churned my stomach a time or two. But it was this flawless writing that enabled the author to do that. Keri Lake transports you to Rip’s warehouse, you hear every scream, you see every drop of spilled blood and you feel the pain that this man inflicts. I had no pity for his victims, they were all scum, but the visceral scene setting was seriously off the charts and made me a part of Rip’s vengeance.
Dylan was a seventeen-year-old girl, who only got through life by popping pills to forget. At the hands of her Uncle, the man that was supposed to care for her and give her a roof over her head, she suffered unmentionable abuse and yet she still woke up every day and tried to behave as if nothing has ever happened. Dylan was stronger than she gave herself credit for, a little naïve, extremely intelligent and yet she was a victim. Her only tether to sanity was her dog, Charlie and when one night, it all becomes too much, Dylan flees, but the streets are no match for a seventeen-year-old.
Ripley was a contract killer with a difference. He never failed and he tortured and maimed until he got the answers he needed. Death never came quick, it was a long, drawn out, gore fest. The stronger the mind the longer the torture. He was feared, revered and was a complete psycho. Rip was the perfect anti-hero, a man you should hate, a man you should despise and yet you don’t. Rip was the antithesis of a book boyfriend…and yet he wasn’t. Rip was fearless, twisted, focused, ruthless and yet he was broken just like the rest of them.
Ripley and Dylan were fated to meet, from not so innocent window watching, to a coincidental meeting, to a premeditated break-in. Life and circumstance kept bringing these two together. Ripley doesn’t do attachments, in his line of work he needs no distractions, no potential bargaining chips, there is no love, no love interests, no family, just him and his bag of tricks.
Ripley was intrigued with Dylan, she was an enigma, she was stronger than she looked and fearless. Dylan called him out, turned him inside out and actually made him feel. Dylan though had no place in Ripley’s life, it was dangerous for him and more importantly, dangerous for her. There would be no innocents lost in his life and he always knew their time together had an expiration date.
Keri Lake delivers a plot that will have you constantly on the edge of your seat. Palpitations are the norm and fear is a constant. Yes, it is graphic, but it is these scenes that really hammer home the kind of world that these two find themselves in. It is this world that gives this story its depth and grit. Yes, ultimately this is a romance, an unavoidable romance, an unforeseeable romance, but it was this romance that made this book.
www.theromancecover.com
5 stars!!!
“…Every decision you make affects every moment that follows, Dylan. It’s like a ripple effect. Choose wisely.”
Boy, am I glad that I didn’t read this piece meal. Ripple Effect was 466 pages of dark, gritty, angsty, twisted, raw, emotional, dirty, unputdownable deliciousness. I inhaled this book, pulled an all-nighter and seriously could not put it down. From the first to last page this book had me rapt. Rip and Dylan were intoxicating, one of my favourite book couples…ever! I just clicked with these two, two seriously fucked up individuals and yet together they were just “normal.” Well, as normal as a contract killer and a broken eighteen-year-old sex trade victim could be. Seriously, these two were explosive, intoxicating, brutal yet so damn perfect.
“Just remember, there are no good guys and bad guys. There are only wolves and sheep.”
Keri Lake is renowned for her dark reads and she doesn’t disappoint with this one. This is seriously dark, extremely descriptive and certainly churned my stomach a time or two. But it was this flawless writing that enabled the author to do that. Keri Lake transports you to Rip’s warehouse, you hear every scream, you see every drop of spilled blood and you feel the pain that this man inflicts. I had no pity for his victims, they were all scum, but the visceral scene setting was seriously off the charts and made me a part of Rip’s vengeance.
“Merciless and merciful. Wild and broken. He’s a raging fire, with the inclination to destroy whatever gets in his path, and I’m nothing but a small scrap of kindling. Yet the way he stares at me with such reverence, makes me feel like I’m the one holding the match…”
Dylan was a seventeen-year-old girl, who only got through life by popping pills to forget. At the hands of her Uncle, the man that was supposed to care for her and give her a roof over her head, she suffered unmentionable abuse and yet she still woke up every day and tried to behave as if nothing has ever happened. Dylan was stronger than she gave herself credit for, a little naïve, extremely intelligent and yet she was a victim. Her only tether to sanity was her dog, Charlie and when one night, it all becomes too much, Dylan flees, but the streets are no match for a seventeen-year-old.
“I’m not disillusioned by the fairytale. Girls where I come from don’t believe in them.”
Ripley was a contract killer with a difference. He never failed and he tortured and maimed until he got the answers he needed. Death never came quick, it was a long, drawn out, gore fest. The stronger the mind the longer the torture. He was feared, revered and was a complete psycho. Rip was the perfect anti-hero, a man you should hate, a man you should despise and yet you don’t. Rip was the antithesis of a book boyfriend…and yet he wasn’t. Rip was fearless, twisted, focused, ruthless and yet he was broken just like the rest of them.
“You’re looking at a dead man, Dylan. Time’s just not up yet.”
Ripley and Dylan were fated to meet, from not so innocent window watching, to a coincidental meeting, to a premeditated break-in. Life and circumstance kept bringing these two together. Ripley doesn’t do attachments, in his line of work he needs no distractions, no potential bargaining chips, there is no love, no love interests, no family, just him and his bag of tricks.
“There are times I feel I’ve touched his soul, only to find I’ve not even breached his skin…”
Ripley was intrigued with Dylan, she was an enigma, she was stronger than she looked and fearless. Dylan called him out, turned him inside out and actually made him feel. Dylan though had no place in Ripley’s life, it was dangerous for him and more importantly, dangerous for her. There would be no innocents lost in his life and he always knew their time together had an expiration date.
“I won’t lose you. To anyone. So I didn’t save you last night. I saved myself.”
Keri Lake delivers a plot that will have you constantly on the edge of your seat. Palpitations are the norm and fear is a constant. Yes, it is graphic, but it is these scenes that really hammer home the kind of world that these two find themselves in. It is this world that gives this story its depth and grit. Yes, ultimately this is a romance, an unavoidable romance, an unforeseeable romance, but it was this romance that made this book.
www.theromancecover.com
December 31, 2017
4.5 Stars!
Series now available in one novel!
My review: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
My review: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
My review: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
My review: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Series now available in one novel!
My review: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
My review: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
My review: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
My review: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
July 27, 2017
SERIES REVIEW
4.5 gripping stars
‘For those of us in the flock, survival comes down to how well we manipulate, because a predator’s eyes are naturally drawn to the most innocent.’
We pretty much knew that by picking this four book serial up we’d be in for a violent twisted story that would have us gripped as we turned the pages. After all this is Keri Lake we’re talking about and once again, we were not disappointed! It was compelling, it was intense and it was utterly f**ked up. Just how we like it when we’re in the mood for something dark and gritty. We were hooked! Brilliantly written dark erotic suspense.
‘I’m ravenous and impatient. He makes me this way. He’s become my drug. The rush that excites me, and the high that keeps me addicted.’ ‘I want to absorb some of his pain, some of his punishment that surrounds him, and make it my own.’
We have to admit that we question if we would’ve enjoyed it as much as we did if it wasn’t for the fact that we read the four instalments in one sitting. The momentum would’ve been hampered, as would the uneasiness and utter intrigue we felt, if we’d had to wait. It became a race against time as we just had to know what was going to happen and how two completely messed up characters could find something akin to ‘normalcy’ in the shape of love and trust. So, we definitely recommend reading all four in one hit in order to truly feel the power behind the words; feel the impact of their crucial weight as ripples become a raging current.
‘She’s one of those rare finds that you stumble upon, covered in dirt and grime that, when you scrub away the tarnish, is actually a stunning piece of art.’
Dylan is a conundrum- her past and present all tied up haphazardly with a vicious blood-dripping bow. We get harrowing glimpses, ugly and extremely painful snippets from her past – there is no safety nor security in her life. Whilst there’s no question that she has her wits about her and a sharp intelligence with a penchant for striking back, she also has a caring and vulnerable side which she only reveals in part. This girl is overwhelmingly scarred and her consequent behaviour questionable at times. What she needs is someone who can match her in every way.
‘I’m a vengeance dealer. A mercenary. I feign loyalty to exact revenge.’ ‘There was a time I’d search for something about the bastards that would justify the kills. Something that would eliminate the guilt. Years later, I find myself searching for some reason not to kill. A glimmer of humanity inside of me. There’s nothing.’........ Click here for full review at TBB
THE RIPPLE EFFECT SERIES is now available in one full book!
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September 17, 2018
5 stars!!
"Every decision you make affects every moment that follows, Dylan. It's like a ripple effect. Choose wisely."
I really, really loved this book. I had read the author before (Ricochet), so I knew the story would likely be well-written, dark, and suspenseful. Turns out it was so much more than that. I was actually riveted by the plot. It wasn't overly complicated, but there were a lot of moving parts that kept me guessing and creating new theories constantly. That being said, the characters were what really set this story apart and made it beyond special. Sure, a lot of that likely boiled down to personal preference, but I loved everything about Ripley and Dylan. They were explosive together, and I loved imagining the world burning in the wake of their love.
"Truth is, Dylan, I'm not the kind of man to leave scars on your body, but don't be foolish to think I won't leave them inside your head."
As Ripley will be the first to tell you, he is not a good man. He isn't some killer out to avenge the lives of innocents, or even some sort of criminal that just does what he has to do for a living. He's involved in organized crime, but that aspect of his life is really just on the periphery because he's so much more than just some player in a power struggle. Ripley is pretty much a psychopath, a man that enjoys torturing and killing people in the most depraved ways possible. He feeds off of it, almost like he needs it to survive. He isn't the kind of man that believes in hearts and flowers. He isn't the kind of man that reforms because of the love of a woman, either. Really, after Dylan storms into his life, his psychopathic tendencies remain, they're just caused by- and triggered because of- different reasons. She's somewhat of a trigger for him, an itch he can't scratch, an obsession he can't control. I personally loved his intensity, because it was pretty much reserved for her. His demons craved her, and there was no way they were taking no for an answer. Unsurprisingly, Ripley's a sadist, but he also is self-aware enough to know that hurting her would be his undoing. Their sex is rough and animalistic, just barely staying on the bearable side of the pain spectrum. I couldn't get enough of them together; not only were those pages fuck hot, but they were described so perfectly that I could feel their need for each other, the electric current surging between them.
In my mind’s eye, he’s beautifully savage. Taking what he wants with the sole purpose of feeding what he craves. And I want to give it to him. I want to feed his appetite for my ruin. I don’t know why, except that the surrender feels so promising.
If Ripley is an anti-hero, then Dylan is the tragic character. When she collides with Ripley, she's an eighteen-year-old drug addict living on the streets. My heart hurt for her the entire book, both when I was reading her flashbacks and also during some events of the book. At eighteen years old, she had been through the kinds of things that nobody should ever even know about, let alone experience. I hated it, but I was also well aware that if she wasn't so unbelievably broken and jaded, she wouldn't have complemented Ripley as perfectly as she did. They weren't just products of their environment, they were also victims of people who broke them down and then molded them as they saw fit. However, what those people didn't realize was that they shaped them in such a way that they ended up fitting together perfectly. After hearing the idea in a few different stories, I now finally understand the idea of two broken people fusing together to build one whole person. Together, Ripley and Dylan were unstoppable. Ripley may have been physically dominating, a weapon designed by both man and nature, but Dylan was brave and smart, a fighter through-and-through. Ripley was the first person to see her for the person she really was, not just as someone who could meet his selfish needs. His methods may have been unorthodox, but he did always want what was best for her. He also never gave up on her and in turn, Dylan saw him for who he was and still wanted him anyway. It was inevitable. They were inevitable.
And as much as I fear that my demons will ultimately tear her apart, the disturbing reality is, they’d probably get drunk with hers and have a fucking orgy together. A woman like that is dangerous for a man like me, but letting her go is no longer an option. I can’t decide if she’s a nightmare or a dream. All I know is that I want more of it. More of her.
“I don’t know what it is about you, Dylan. You touch some dark and carnal part of me that makes me fucking crazy when I’m inside you.”
Dylan and Ripley's story is not an easy read. It's dark, with a LOT of triggers set both in flashbacks and in real time. There's blood and gore and a lot of murdering, which doesn't sound like the setting for a love story, but there's no doubt that it is. In fact, Ripley and Dylan's love is the kind that could burn down major cities, leaving a trail of wreckage behind them as they stroll away laughing. They're either each other's redemption or ruin, and at times the reader can't decide which outcome is more likely. Maybe both. It's an intense, passionate, beautiful story about finding your other half in a the middle of a pile of some fucked up shit. I personally love this idea, that the love between two people could be so powerful that it could withstand the worst evils in the world. As long as you can handle the dark elements of this book, I highly recommend jumping on this roller-coaster ride!
“God has nothing to do with this. When you come, it’s my name you’ll scream. I want to hear it beating against my skull.” Holding me up with one arm, he yanks the front of my dress down to expose my breast, and I realize he’s right. There is no God here. He’s not my savior. He’s an angel with black wings. A dealer of death. My ruin.
She’s my perfection. My reason. My obsession. My beautiful butterfly.
"Every decision you make affects every moment that follows, Dylan. It's like a ripple effect. Choose wisely."
I really, really loved this book. I had read the author before (Ricochet), so I knew the story would likely be well-written, dark, and suspenseful. Turns out it was so much more than that. I was actually riveted by the plot. It wasn't overly complicated, but there were a lot of moving parts that kept me guessing and creating new theories constantly. That being said, the characters were what really set this story apart and made it beyond special. Sure, a lot of that likely boiled down to personal preference, but I loved everything about Ripley and Dylan. They were explosive together, and I loved imagining the world burning in the wake of their love.
"Truth is, Dylan, I'm not the kind of man to leave scars on your body, but don't be foolish to think I won't leave them inside your head."
As Ripley will be the first to tell you, he is not a good man. He isn't some killer out to avenge the lives of innocents, or even some sort of criminal that just does what he has to do for a living. He's involved in organized crime, but that aspect of his life is really just on the periphery because he's so much more than just some player in a power struggle. Ripley is pretty much a psychopath, a man that enjoys torturing and killing people in the most depraved ways possible. He feeds off of it, almost like he needs it to survive. He isn't the kind of man that believes in hearts and flowers. He isn't the kind of man that reforms because of the love of a woman, either. Really, after Dylan storms into his life, his psychopathic tendencies remain, they're just caused by- and triggered because of- different reasons. She's somewhat of a trigger for him, an itch he can't scratch, an obsession he can't control. I personally loved his intensity, because it was pretty much reserved for her. His demons craved her, and there was no way they were taking no for an answer. Unsurprisingly, Ripley's a sadist, but he also is self-aware enough to know that hurting her would be his undoing. Their sex is rough and animalistic, just barely staying on the bearable side of the pain spectrum. I couldn't get enough of them together; not only were those pages fuck hot, but they were described so perfectly that I could feel their need for each other, the electric current surging between them.
In my mind’s eye, he’s beautifully savage. Taking what he wants with the sole purpose of feeding what he craves. And I want to give it to him. I want to feed his appetite for my ruin. I don’t know why, except that the surrender feels so promising.
If Ripley is an anti-hero, then Dylan is the tragic character. When she collides with Ripley, she's an eighteen-year-old drug addict living on the streets. My heart hurt for her the entire book, both when I was reading her flashbacks and also during some events of the book. At eighteen years old, she had been through the kinds of things that nobody should ever even know about, let alone experience. I hated it, but I was also well aware that if she wasn't so unbelievably broken and jaded, she wouldn't have complemented Ripley as perfectly as she did. They weren't just products of their environment, they were also victims of people who broke them down and then molded them as they saw fit. However, what those people didn't realize was that they shaped them in such a way that they ended up fitting together perfectly. After hearing the idea in a few different stories, I now finally understand the idea of two broken people fusing together to build one whole person. Together, Ripley and Dylan were unstoppable. Ripley may have been physically dominating, a weapon designed by both man and nature, but Dylan was brave and smart, a fighter through-and-through. Ripley was the first person to see her for the person she really was, not just as someone who could meet his selfish needs. His methods may have been unorthodox, but he did always want what was best for her. He also never gave up on her and in turn, Dylan saw him for who he was and still wanted him anyway. It was inevitable. They were inevitable.
And as much as I fear that my demons will ultimately tear her apart, the disturbing reality is, they’d probably get drunk with hers and have a fucking orgy together. A woman like that is dangerous for a man like me, but letting her go is no longer an option. I can’t decide if she’s a nightmare or a dream. All I know is that I want more of it. More of her.
“I don’t know what it is about you, Dylan. You touch some dark and carnal part of me that makes me fucking crazy when I’m inside you.”
Dylan and Ripley's story is not an easy read. It's dark, with a LOT of triggers set both in flashbacks and in real time. There's blood and gore and a lot of murdering, which doesn't sound like the setting for a love story, but there's no doubt that it is. In fact, Ripley and Dylan's love is the kind that could burn down major cities, leaving a trail of wreckage behind them as they stroll away laughing. They're either each other's redemption or ruin, and at times the reader can't decide which outcome is more likely. Maybe both. It's an intense, passionate, beautiful story about finding your other half in a the middle of a pile of some fucked up shit. I personally love this idea, that the love between two people could be so powerful that it could withstand the worst evils in the world. As long as you can handle the dark elements of this book, I highly recommend jumping on this roller-coaster ride!
“God has nothing to do with this. When you come, it’s my name you’ll scream. I want to hear it beating against my skull.” Holding me up with one arm, he yanks the front of my dress down to expose my breast, and I realize he’s right. There is no God here. He’s not my savior. He’s an angel with black wings. A dealer of death. My ruin.
She’s my perfection. My reason. My obsession. My beautiful butterfly.
October 25, 2017
Everything he does is a confusing dance between dominance and reverence.Keri Lake has definitely earned herself a new fan with Ripple Effect! I loved the dark relationship between Ripley and Dylan - its sensuality and complexity kept me reading from cover to cover.
Dylan has suffered so much abuse at the hands of almost every adult in her short life, but it hasn't crushed her spirit...yet. Meeting Ripley, a cold-blooded contract killer, gives her a bit of refuge and hope that keeps her going. Ripley is equally affected by Dylan, and they unwittingly fall for each other.
I loved them both; they had depth as characters and their scenes together were full of fire and life. Definitely 5 stars for the 'romance' in this one.
What I wasn't such a big fan of was the convoluted world these characters inhabited. From the two major mafia groups, to the Agency, to the Monarch Society, to the Eden Ranch 'orphanage', it was just too much. I felt that there wasn't enough information given - everything was kept too mysterious, too cryptic to be plausible. Plus, there was an effort to keep the reader in the dark about a lot of twists - and in a story told from dual points of view that just wasn't believable. So only 3 stars for all the loose ends and the incredulous expression that was left on my face when I finished.
But I can see a huge well of potential in this author's writing and I'm really looking forward to reading more from her.
Want to read
October 17, 2017
The entire series #1-4 for 99cents! Such a steal!
Ripley
They call me RIP.
I’m a killer. A murderer. A psychopath.
In the eyes of the righteous, I’m a monster, born of sin and depravity.
I want to protect her, but I’m not a good man.
I want to love her, but I no longer feel.
She gets under my skin, though, and has awakened something inside of me.
Something I’d kill for.
I’m not her savior—not even close. In fact, I’m worse than the hell she’s already suffered.
I’m her vengeance. Tit for tat, as they say.
And if she’s not careful, I’ll be her ruin.
Dylan
For months, I’ve watched him.
I’ve fantasized him as my savior, my lover. My ticket out of the hell I’ve lived in for the last six years.
I never dreamed he’d be my nightmare.
Had I known what he really is, I’d have never gotten in the car that night, but life is full of cause and effect.
And sometimes the choice on offer isn’t a choice at all.
It’s the result of something already in motion, and we’re merely left to survive the ripple effect.
July 18, 2017
“Every decision you make affects every moment that follows … It’s like a ripple effect. Choose wisely.”
4 dark, dirty and twisted stars
Goddam, Keri Lake can write dark and gritty romance! And wow, was this one dark! Dramatic, violent, sinister and twisted, this book plunges you into the seedy underworld of Chicago, where bad guys rule, the innocent become victims, and a merciless killer can become an antihero who will absolutely still your heart.
Dylan lives a dismal life, living with her aunt and uncle after her mother overdosed when she was just 12 years old. Not that her life was all roses better before then, with her mother prostituting herself to pay for her drug habit, and Dylan being exposed to all sorts of hell. But since then, she has been subjected to horrors that would break a lesser person. The only sense of calm in her life comes when she downs her pills and watches a mysterious stranger from her bedroom window – a tall, dark and dangerous man that intrigues her like no other, and who she imagines in all sorts of deliciously dirty ways. She is counting down the days until her 18th birthday when she can escape the horrors of her ‘home’, but when it all becomes too much for her, she grabs her dog and her young foster sister, and she makes a run for it. When desperation leads her into a dangerous situation, her saviour comes in the unsuspecting form of Ripley, the man she has watched for so long.
Ripley (aka ‘Rip’) is a killer for hire. Ruthless and vicious, he is a seemingly emotionless killing machine – never missing his mark, and never failing to extract whatever information he is after – by any means necessary. But when their circumstances bring them together, Ripley is uncharacteristically considerate towards Dylan, and when he makes her an off she can’t refuse, the two of them are bound together for two months – Dylan getting a roof over her head and the safety and financial security she so desperately needs, and Ripley getting Dylan…. all of Dylan. It may seem like a sketchy deal, but the attraction that sizzles between these two is definitely two-sided, and they are equal partners in their depravity.
The dynamic between Ripley and Dylan is intense and a little bit twisted. It’s not sweet and loving, and it’s not banter and playful animosity – this is hard core. Both of them taking what they need, and doing it unapologetically. The sex is hot and dirty, and their interactions are blunt, holding nothing back. But things slowly begin to shift, and as they start to open up to each other, they both find themselves dealing with feelings they never expected – the consequences of which could be deadly.
If you’ve read a book by this author, then you’ll know what to expect going into this one, and if you haven’t, well… there are dark romances and then there are DARK romances. This one is DARK. Lake writes super dark books, so I sort of knew to expect it, but this one was a bit boundary pushing (I don't think we needed quite that much detail). If there is a trigger – this book has it. Abuse, drug taking, violence, rape and hard-core torture. Parts of this book actually made my stomach turn, but it shows the brutality of the world and its inhabitants, and as a world-building tool it’s really effective. Just a bit cringy in places, and definitely not for the feint-of-heart.
But in the middle of all of that brutality, there is a love story. It’s twisted and unconventional, but it’s real and raw, and it develops really well. I could feel the shift of things between Ripley and Dylan, and though their situations are unique and completely out of the realm of ‘normal life’, I could feel what they were feeling, and I really enjoyed how natural it felt as everything changed for them.
But the romance is just a part of the story, woven into the dangerous, deadly world that they inhabit. There are so many dangers and secrets and there’s a lot that happens in the story, and it’s twisted and complex… in fact I’m still not sure I completely have my head around the intricacies of this storyline. But I enjoyed the twists and turns, and the reveals that had me gasping in shock, and I loved the fact that I kept getting dragged deeper and deeper into this complicated story so that I couldn’t put it down.
I really enjoyed this book. Like I said, it’s not an easy one to get through, but if you’re in the mood for something raw and gritty, then this is a great read!
4 stars.
An Advanced Review Copy was generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
4 dark, dirty and twisted stars
Goddam, Keri Lake can write dark and gritty romance! And wow, was this one dark! Dramatic, violent, sinister and twisted, this book plunges you into the seedy underworld of Chicago, where bad guys rule, the innocent become victims, and a merciless killer can become an antihero who will absolutely still your heart.
Ripple effect: noun
1. a spreading effect or series of consequences caused by a single action or event
Dylan lives a dismal life, living with her aunt and uncle after her mother overdosed when she was just 12 years old. Not that her life was all roses better before then, with her mother prostituting herself to pay for her drug habit, and Dylan being exposed to all sorts of hell. But since then, she has been subjected to horrors that would break a lesser person. The only sense of calm in her life comes when she downs her pills and watches a mysterious stranger from her bedroom window – a tall, dark and dangerous man that intrigues her like no other, and who she imagines in all sorts of deliciously dirty ways. She is counting down the days until her 18th birthday when she can escape the horrors of her ‘home’, but when it all becomes too much for her, she grabs her dog and her young foster sister, and she makes a run for it. When desperation leads her into a dangerous situation, her saviour comes in the unsuspecting form of Ripley, the man she has watched for so long.
Ripley (aka ‘Rip’) is a killer for hire. Ruthless and vicious, he is a seemingly emotionless killing machine – never missing his mark, and never failing to extract whatever information he is after – by any means necessary. But when their circumstances bring them together, Ripley is uncharacteristically considerate towards Dylan, and when he makes her an off she can’t refuse, the two of them are bound together for two months – Dylan getting a roof over her head and the safety and financial security she so desperately needs, and Ripley getting Dylan…. all of Dylan. It may seem like a sketchy deal, but the attraction that sizzles between these two is definitely two-sided, and they are equal partners in their depravity.
Seeing her face drudges thoughts inside my head. Feelings that shouldn’t be there, like how savagely I’d kill another bastard for laying a hand on her. How badly I want to claim her as mine, every ounce of pleasure that spills from her lips.
I want her. But more than that, I don’t want anyone else to have her.
He’s not my saviour. He’s an angel with black wings. A dealer of death. My ruin.
The dynamic between Ripley and Dylan is intense and a little bit twisted. It’s not sweet and loving, and it’s not banter and playful animosity – this is hard core. Both of them taking what they need, and doing it unapologetically. The sex is hot and dirty, and their interactions are blunt, holding nothing back. But things slowly begin to shift, and as they start to open up to each other, they both find themselves dealing with feelings they never expected – the consequences of which could be deadly.
“As long as you’re mine, nothing touches you. Simple as that.”
If you’ve read a book by this author, then you’ll know what to expect going into this one, and if you haven’t, well… there are dark romances and then there are DARK romances. This one is DARK. Lake writes super dark books, so I sort of knew to expect it, but this one was a bit boundary pushing (I don't think we needed quite that much detail). If there is a trigger – this book has it. Abuse, drug taking, violence, rape and hard-core torture. Parts of this book actually made my stomach turn, but it shows the brutality of the world and its inhabitants, and as a world-building tool it’s really effective. Just a bit cringy in places, and definitely not for the feint-of-heart.
But in the middle of all of that brutality, there is a love story. It’s twisted and unconventional, but it’s real and raw, and it develops really well. I could feel the shift of things between Ripley and Dylan, and though their situations are unique and completely out of the realm of ‘normal life’, I could feel what they were feeling, and I really enjoyed how natural it felt as everything changed for them.
As much as I fear that my demons will ultimately tear her apart, the disturbing reality is, they’d probably get drunk with hers and have a fucking orgy together. A woman like that is dangerous for a man like me, but letting her go is no longer an option. I can’t decide if she’s a nightmare or a dream. All I know is that I want more of it. More of her.
In a killer’s embrace, I feel something I’ve not experience my whole life – I feel safe.
But the romance is just a part of the story, woven into the dangerous, deadly world that they inhabit. There are so many dangers and secrets and there’s a lot that happens in the story, and it’s twisted and complex… in fact I’m still not sure I completely have my head around the intricacies of this storyline. But I enjoyed the twists and turns, and the reveals that had me gasping in shock, and I loved the fact that I kept getting dragged deeper and deeper into this complicated story so that I couldn’t put it down.
I really enjoyed this book. Like I said, it’s not an easy one to get through, but if you’re in the mood for something raw and gritty, then this is a great read!
4 stars.
An Advanced Review Copy was generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Want to read
March 20, 2020🎁 FREE on Amazon today (3/20/2020)! 🎁
July 25, 2017
"There are times I feel I’ve touched his soul, only to find I’ve not even breached his skin."
Every time I start a new Keri Lake book, I know I'll be completely transported into the story, and Ripple Effect is no different.
This author has a gift for creating a whole new world and atmosphere around her characters.
Dark, gritty, angsty, Ripple Effect has a suspensul plot that will suprise more than once . The intrigue is mutlilayered, rich and each detail has its importance , until everything eventually forms an entire huge picture that will let you mesmerized.
The story leads you to the underbelly of Chicago, that is run by different organisations, agencies and societies. You'll be taken to strip clubs, churches, old mental facilities, seedy places, you'll meet violent people who will make you cringe.
But, most of all, you will experience the raw and beautiful story of two broken souls, whose strength and fierceness, resilience and fight are captivating. Dylan and Ripley are complex characters, conflicted, torn between what they want and what they need to do in order to survive. They are perfectly imperfect, trying to make the right choices, to navigate their ways though threats coming from different ways and to figure out what they feel for each other. It's and emotional roller - coaster. He is cold, lethal, calculated, she has nothing to loose, is a real little spitfire. Their dynamic is beautiful, Ripley the killer and Dylan the Bandit send sparks flying.
“Scream loud. Scream until your voice gives out. Scream until the whole city can hear you.”“You’d like that, wouldn’t you? You’re nothing but a sadist. A torture-loving bastard!”“I haven’t begun to torture you, sweetheart. But after this little stunt, you’re gonna wish you’d have just gotten into that fucking car.”“I hate you. I really truly hate you.”“No you don’t. You wish you hated me. Just like I wish I hated you.”
I loved their evolution all along the book, from curiosity to obsession, from hate to an incredible chemistry, from wariness to this perfect ending...
I need more, maybe a book featuring Jörgen and Emily? (Well, a girl can dream, right? )
I recommend this book to dark reads lovers who need a hot action packed book! Enjoy!!!
*ARC generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. Thank you ! *
Every time I start a new Keri Lake book, I know I'll be completely transported into the story, and Ripple Effect is no different.
This author has a gift for creating a whole new world and atmosphere around her characters.
Dark, gritty, angsty, Ripple Effect has a suspensul plot that will suprise more than once . The intrigue is mutlilayered, rich and each detail has its importance , until everything eventually forms an entire huge picture that will let you mesmerized.
The story leads you to the underbelly of Chicago, that is run by different organisations, agencies and societies. You'll be taken to strip clubs, churches, old mental facilities, seedy places, you'll meet violent people who will make you cringe.
But, most of all, you will experience the raw and beautiful story of two broken souls, whose strength and fierceness, resilience and fight are captivating. Dylan and Ripley are complex characters, conflicted, torn between what they want and what they need to do in order to survive. They are perfectly imperfect, trying to make the right choices, to navigate their ways though threats coming from different ways and to figure out what they feel for each other. It's and emotional roller - coaster. He is cold, lethal, calculated, she has nothing to loose, is a real little spitfire. Their dynamic is beautiful, Ripley the killer and Dylan the Bandit send sparks flying.
“Scream loud. Scream until your voice gives out. Scream until the whole city can hear you.”“You’d like that, wouldn’t you? You’re nothing but a sadist. A torture-loving bastard!”“I haven’t begun to torture you, sweetheart. But after this little stunt, you’re gonna wish you’d have just gotten into that fucking car.”“I hate you. I really truly hate you.”“No you don’t. You wish you hated me. Just like I wish I hated you.”
I loved their evolution all along the book, from curiosity to obsession, from hate to an incredible chemistry, from wariness to this perfect ending...
I need more, maybe a book featuring Jörgen and Emily? (Well, a girl can dream, right? )
I recommend this book to dark reads lovers who need a hot action packed book! Enjoy!!!
*ARC generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. Thank you ! *
January 12, 2018
3.5 Stars
This was a good read. It had a well thought out plot, and an awesome hero. I only wished for more insight on the heroine's psyche. She was initially presented as a very analytic person, paying attention to small details and assessing everything and everyone around her. In fact, she was later on mentioned as a savant; yet as the story went on very little was presented of her mental capabilities. Notwithstanding the trauma she endures, what was introduced as a beautiful yet troubled mind suddenly turned into the mind of your average yet troubled young woman, save for the one or two mentions of her being good in math/science.
This was a good read. It had a well thought out plot, and an awesome hero. I only wished for more insight on the heroine's psyche. She was initially presented as a very analytic person, paying attention to small details and assessing everything and everyone around her. In fact, she was later on mentioned as a savant; yet as the story went on very little was presented of her mental capabilities. Notwithstanding the trauma she endures, what was introduced as a beautiful yet troubled mind suddenly turned into the mind of your average yet troubled young woman, save for the one or two mentions of her being good in math/science.
April 10, 2023
What a ride! Keri lake sure knows how to write a romance filled with suspense and action.
July 25, 2017
Here's my review of each episode..
Episode 1-
I've read a few of this authors books and after reading the blurb of this one I didn't hesitate to read it. This is part one of four.
What a great start to this story. Dylan and Ripley are two crazy characters.
Dylan hasn't had an easy start to life. Just about to turn eighteen she finds herself alone in the world. She seems to keep putting herself into dangerous positions.
Ripley is a murderer. He cares for no one and fears no one.
I'm really looking forward to reading more of this story.
Episode 2-
This is episode two of this story. Make sure you read episode one first as the story continues in this episode.
Ripley and Dylan's story continues. We read more of their past. My heart broke for Dylan. She's so young yet been through so much.
Love these two and looking forward to reading more about them.
I'm loving reading these stories but I'm so impatient my inner self is regretting not waiting until the whole story is out before I read it as it's such a great story I keep wanting more. Thankfully the author isn't making us wait too long so if you like your books darker then get 1-clicking.
Episode 3-
This is episode 3 of this series. Make sure you read the previous episodes before you read this story.
It's real hard to write a review as this is part of a series and I don't wanna spoil it for anyone. It's also a quick read.
I will say I really enjoyed this read and am looking forward to jumping into episode four.
Episode 4-
Yay I totally loved this story. It's released in four episodes so make sure you read them all in order.
Ripley and Dylan. Wow two fantastic main characters. All the way through I was so rooting for these two. In this episode all the questions running through my head are answered and it's all made clear.
I thought this was more angsty but maybe that's because I was really hoping these two were going to have a happy ever after.
If your looking for a dark read then I can now recommend this as all four episodes have been released. My warped head and heart loved it.
This is an amazing read. I loved it. Totally recommend this read.
Episode 1-
I've read a few of this authors books and after reading the blurb of this one I didn't hesitate to read it. This is part one of four.
What a great start to this story. Dylan and Ripley are two crazy characters.
Dylan hasn't had an easy start to life. Just about to turn eighteen she finds herself alone in the world. She seems to keep putting herself into dangerous positions.
Ripley is a murderer. He cares for no one and fears no one.
I'm really looking forward to reading more of this story.
Episode 2-
This is episode two of this story. Make sure you read episode one first as the story continues in this episode.
Ripley and Dylan's story continues. We read more of their past. My heart broke for Dylan. She's so young yet been through so much.
Love these two and looking forward to reading more about them.
I'm loving reading these stories but I'm so impatient my inner self is regretting not waiting until the whole story is out before I read it as it's such a great story I keep wanting more. Thankfully the author isn't making us wait too long so if you like your books darker then get 1-clicking.
Episode 3-
This is episode 3 of this series. Make sure you read the previous episodes before you read this story.
It's real hard to write a review as this is part of a series and I don't wanna spoil it for anyone. It's also a quick read.
I will say I really enjoyed this read and am looking forward to jumping into episode four.
Episode 4-
Yay I totally loved this story. It's released in four episodes so make sure you read them all in order.
Ripley and Dylan. Wow two fantastic main characters. All the way through I was so rooting for these two. In this episode all the questions running through my head are answered and it's all made clear.
I thought this was more angsty but maybe that's because I was really hoping these two were going to have a happy ever after.
If your looking for a dark read then I can now recommend this as all four episodes have been released. My warped head and heart loved it.
This is an amazing read. I loved it. Totally recommend this read.
July 15, 2020
2.5 stars
I have very few triggers while reading, so bring on the violence and murder and all that. The one thing that I really can't handle is racism. A side character dropping the N word at the very beginning of the book pretty much set the tone of my feelings for the rest of the story. And this was a fairly long book, so there was a lot of time for me to stew. I have read and loved (5-starred even!) this author before, so I'm sure the writing was good, but my brain never got past that one little word, and it ruined the rest of the books enjoyment for me. There were also small storyline loose ends and main character flaws that didn't sit well with me, so I feel like even had that word not been there, I don't think my rating would have been any higher than 3 (or maybe 3.5 with a round down) anyway.
I have very few triggers while reading, so bring on the violence and murder and all that. The one thing that I really can't handle is racism. A side character dropping the N word at the very beginning of the book pretty much set the tone of my feelings for the rest of the story. And this was a fairly long book, so there was a lot of time for me to stew. I have read and loved (5-starred even!) this author before, so I'm sure the writing was good, but my brain never got past that one little word, and it ruined the rest of the books enjoyment for me. There were also small storyline loose ends and main character flaws that didn't sit well with me, so I feel like even had that word not been there, I don't think my rating would have been any higher than 3 (or maybe 3.5 with a round down) anyway.
May 27, 2018
First and foremost, I need to thank Victoria for recommending this book to me months ago because THIS book changed my goddamn life. oh my god I want to jump into this book with Rip and Dylan and live there forever. I truly don't believe there are words enough to describe how amazing this book is. holy fucking shit. I was not expecting that. Ripple Effect put Keri on my radar and now I'm gonna read everything she's ever written.
"I won't lose you. To anyone. So I didn't save you last night. I saved myself."
"I won't lose you. To anyone. So I didn't save you last night. I saved myself."
July 24, 2017
MILLIONS BUTTERFLIES 🦋 STARS ⭐️
This is the review for the box set separate one by one. Definitely recommend this read to everyone! Because you will be come addicted.
Keri has become my favorite person ever.
Episode I
Swooning!!!!! I definitely not well on the head to be able to love these anti-heroes so much like I do every time Keri writes one. I'm bad but I don't care at all once again she don't disappoint me and I think neither of you will be. The story is intense, dark, and fast pace that keep me hooked from the first line and needing for more. Dylan and Rip am dying to know moreeeeee,so be prepared to this because I know is gonna be AMAZING!!!!!
Episode II
OMG RIPPLE!!!!! CAN I BE YOUR BUTTERFLY PLEASE
Every episode is more and more enlightening by the author knows how to keep you hooked in the dark mind of a super hot and sexy psychopath. Because every episode we learn more about Rip and let me tell you every line I like it more and more. I know I'm bad in the head but who's going to tell me is wrong nobody. Dylan oh Dylan you are a spitfire and one of my favorites heroines ever. This story is darker and raw but is captivating to the point of devour it. Rambling much, once again can't wait for know how this story will end, soooooo I will patiently wait!!!!
Episode III
This is the third episode of the series an is about to get more dirty, more angst and I freaking loved it. Every part of this story from the beginning till the end is perfect. Is dark, twisted, hot and sexy as F**k. Keri Lake knows how to keep you there and feeling that you are there too. I found it amazing, and super super addictive. The characters, RIP AND DYLAN what a couple, Dylan is my favorite heroine ever because she is a CHAMPION!!! And RIP OHHHHH RIP YOU GOT ME MAN!! The connections with the characters is beyond expected, and I cannot wait for read more about them! So definitely recommend this to everyone!!!
Episode IV
AMAZING!
Brilliant, dark, intense and super addictive!!
This is the final episode of one of the best dark series ever. Dylan and Ripley's relationship is dark, extremely hot and beyond obsessive and I love every single part of it. This story was told in dual POV and had everything; angst, darkness, love, but must of all had power in every part !
Definitely recommend this read to everyone! Because you will be come addicted.
Keri has become my favorite person ever.
Congrats on this amazing story and keep keep bringing another ones. Hands down!!!
This is the review for the box set separate one by one. Definitely recommend this read to everyone! Because you will be come addicted.
Keri has become my favorite person ever.
Episode I
Swooning!!!!! I definitely not well on the head to be able to love these anti-heroes so much like I do every time Keri writes one. I'm bad but I don't care at all once again she don't disappoint me and I think neither of you will be. The story is intense, dark, and fast pace that keep me hooked from the first line and needing for more. Dylan and Rip am dying to know moreeeeee,so be prepared to this because I know is gonna be AMAZING!!!!!
Episode II
OMG RIPPLE!!!!! CAN I BE YOUR BUTTERFLY PLEASE
Every episode is more and more enlightening by the author knows how to keep you hooked in the dark mind of a super hot and sexy psychopath. Because every episode we learn more about Rip and let me tell you every line I like it more and more. I know I'm bad in the head but who's going to tell me is wrong nobody. Dylan oh Dylan you are a spitfire and one of my favorites heroines ever. This story is darker and raw but is captivating to the point of devour it. Rambling much, once again can't wait for know how this story will end, soooooo I will patiently wait!!!!
Episode III
This is the third episode of the series an is about to get more dirty, more angst and I freaking loved it. Every part of this story from the beginning till the end is perfect. Is dark, twisted, hot and sexy as F**k. Keri Lake knows how to keep you there and feeling that you are there too. I found it amazing, and super super addictive. The characters, RIP AND DYLAN what a couple, Dylan is my favorite heroine ever because she is a CHAMPION!!! And RIP OHHHHH RIP YOU GOT ME MAN!! The connections with the characters is beyond expected, and I cannot wait for read more about them! So definitely recommend this to everyone!!!
Episode IV
AMAZING!
Brilliant, dark, intense and super addictive!!
This is the final episode of one of the best dark series ever. Dylan and Ripley's relationship is dark, extremely hot and beyond obsessive and I love every single part of it. This story was told in dual POV and had everything; angst, darkness, love, but must of all had power in every part !
Definitely recommend this read to everyone! Because you will be come addicted.
Keri has become my favorite person ever.
Congrats on this amazing story and keep keep bringing another ones. Hands down!!!
April 9, 2018
Just when I thought this author couldn’t get any better.
This book was twisted and dark! Everything I wanted in a book. Rip is a hit man, he is ruthless, cold blooded, tortured, scarred and tattooed but he is completely drop dead sexy. We then are introduced to the heroine Dylan. They meet in unfortunate circumstances. Dylan has suffered so much at the hands of twisted people and from people who she thought was family, she suffers from flashbacks and triggers. Dylan is on loose and she is homeless, she needs money badly and is willing to do anything even sell her body for some money. Dylan picked the wrong guy to go with, then in comes Rip to the rescue.
Rip is beyond fixable, he has sworn of love, because with his line of work, he doesn’t want that to get to him.Let’s just say when rip and Dylan meet at certain unfortunate circumstances, yes they haven’t just met once. Rip is intrigued by her. She sparks something inside of him not just sexual but something else. He offers her a deal that she can’t refuse. The deal is that she submits herself to him whenever he wants for two months and she will get 20,000. Dylan would be crazy not to except this offer, she will have financial security, a place to stay, food, water.
What’s the worst that could happen right?
So much happens in this book, it will leave you spinning.
This book contains torture, bloodshed, gore, murder, revenge, lies, secrets, revelations, crazy hot sex, we also get to see the journey of two people fall in love even know they know they shouldn’t. This book was amazingly written and I am so glad I read it. Keri Lake never fails to disappoint me.
This book was twisted and dark! Everything I wanted in a book. Rip is a hit man, he is ruthless, cold blooded, tortured, scarred and tattooed but he is completely drop dead sexy. We then are introduced to the heroine Dylan. They meet in unfortunate circumstances. Dylan has suffered so much at the hands of twisted people and from people who she thought was family, she suffers from flashbacks and triggers. Dylan is on loose and she is homeless, she needs money badly and is willing to do anything even sell her body for some money. Dylan picked the wrong guy to go with, then in comes Rip to the rescue.
Rip is beyond fixable, he has sworn of love, because with his line of work, he doesn’t want that to get to him.Let’s just say when rip and Dylan meet at certain unfortunate circumstances, yes they haven’t just met once. Rip is intrigued by her. She sparks something inside of him not just sexual but something else. He offers her a deal that she can’t refuse. The deal is that she submits herself to him whenever he wants for two months and she will get 20,000. Dylan would be crazy not to except this offer, she will have financial security, a place to stay, food, water.
What’s the worst that could happen right?
So much happens in this book, it will leave you spinning.
This book contains torture, bloodshed, gore, murder, revenge, lies, secrets, revelations, crazy hot sex, we also get to see the journey of two people fall in love even know they know they shouldn’t. This book was amazingly written and I am so glad I read it. Keri Lake never fails to disappoint me.
March 9, 2019
Keri Lake is a fucking genius. She doesn't get nearly enough recognition for her amazing work. She can write anything and make it fantastic. You like steamy, interesting and intense PNR? She got it. You want dark, gritty and fucked up romance? She got it. You want dark, sexy, unique dystopian? She got it. Keri Lake has written so many different genres and she always manages to blow my mind.
Keri Lake is one of my all time favorite author, it started with her Sons of Wrath series and this was the beginning of a beautiful and intense love story between her books and me. Her words are magical, she writes beautifully and she never holds back. Her books are raw and powerful, they make me feel so much, few authors can achieve that. It's not simply loving the characters and the story, it's craving them, it's not being able to think about anything else but that book, it's feeling everything you read in your gut and investing your whole life in it.
Ripple Effect is not for the faint of heart. It's dark, it's erotic, it's intense, it's gut-wrenching and I loved every minute of it. This book turned my world upside down, how Keri does it, I have no idea, but she made me care for these fucked up characters so deeply, she made me root for them, after 5 pages, I was already invested in the story and I couldn't get enough.
Rip and Dylan broke my heart so hard and then proceeded to slowly put it back together, then they broke me again a little harder and then they put me back together again more solidly. Their story isn't all sunshine and rainbows, it's a big storm, it will destroy you, scare you but it'll eventually calm and make you feel safe.
I absolutely loved their relationship, it was so well written, a masterpiece. I don't have the words to explain how I feel about them but if there's one thing you need to know is that Rip and Dylan will make you feel all the feels and change your life.
Ripple Effect is a book I will never forget. It truly messed with me in the best possible way. The story is incredibly intense and dark but it is a romance so do not fear, there's a beautiful happy ending. I am dying to read more about them in the future, if Keri is so inclined. Please, be inclined.
She's my perfection. My reason. My obsession. My beautiful butterfly.
January 5, 2024
a must read!
This book was a perfectly woven story and once all the puzzle pieces fell into place I just smiled because that’s what Keri’s writing does to me. She can paint a picture so vividly so that not only do you feel what the character is going through emotionally, but you feel like you’re
right.
freaking.
there.
with them. In this case, it put me in the heart and soul of a damaged but not broken teenager and a beast of a man who’s had just as much träuma but he’s channeled it into mǔrder for hire.
.
Ripley is TOP tier. Period. Game over, I love his no bs attitude. Rip’s history was dark like Dylan’s, but I love how he used all that darkness and turned himself into a wëapon. Dylan is quite the woman. Although she is a freshly turned eighteen year old, there’s nothing young about her. She’s seen way too much and her life experiences have been hellacious and unimaginable. Even though their first encounters were less than ideal, they formed such an amazing connection overtime and it was plain to see these two were made for each other. The way he saves her from herself is nothing short of amazing and she proves to him that they are better together rather than alone. As Dylan says at one point.. “our crazy lines up just right”.
This book was a perfectly woven story and once all the puzzle pieces fell into place I just smiled because that’s what Keri’s writing does to me. She can paint a picture so vividly so that not only do you feel what the character is going through emotionally, but you feel like you’re
right.
freaking.
there.
with them. In this case, it put me in the heart and soul of a damaged but not broken teenager and a beast of a man who’s had just as much träuma but he’s channeled it into mǔrder for hire.
.
Ripley is TOP tier. Period. Game over, I love his no bs attitude. Rip’s history was dark like Dylan’s, but I love how he used all that darkness and turned himself into a wëapon. Dylan is quite the woman. Although she is a freshly turned eighteen year old, there’s nothing young about her. She’s seen way too much and her life experiences have been hellacious and unimaginable. Even though their first encounters were less than ideal, they formed such an amazing connection overtime and it was plain to see these two were made for each other. The way he saves her from herself is nothing short of amazing and she proves to him that they are better together rather than alone. As Dylan says at one point.. “our crazy lines up just right”.
June 27, 2020
Sinfully Good!
Dark and twisted and steamy and suspenseful! I honestly didn't put this book down, it took over my life. Everything I've read from Keri Lake has been gritty and sinfully good, this one was no different!
Dark and twisted and steamy and suspenseful! I honestly didn't put this book down, it took over my life. Everything I've read from Keri Lake has been gritty and sinfully good, this one was no different!
December 8, 2019
This book completely sucked me in! I loved Dylan and Ripley's story.
August 14, 2019
RATING: 4 'Butterfly' HEARTS!
Fave Quote(s):
Veni. Vidi. Amavi.
"I came. I saw. I loved."
Fave Quote(s):
Veni. Vidi. Amavi.
"I came. I saw. I loved."
November 3, 2020
I love Ripley and Dylan!!
I don't actively seek out mafia books, but when it's an author that has exceeded my expectations with their stories, then I make exceptions. RIPPLE EFFECT was that exception for me because I have loved everything I've read by Keri thus far and once again, she has exceeded my expectations and gave me a story that had me on the edge of my seat with my heart racing and my eyes glued to my phone all hours of the day. I could not read this book fast enough. The plot was complex, the characters were multi-faceted, the flow of the story was perfect...everything was flawless. From beginning to end, I was consumed. It was an insta-5 stars for me!
"Every decision you make affects every moment that follows, Dylan. It's like a ripple effect. Choose wisely." -Rip
This dark and gritty alpha male romance was utterly addictive! Told from dual POVs (Rip and Dylan), we get a flawlessly woven story. It's dark. It's suspenseful. It's raw. It's unputadownable. Keri truly excels at creating unpredictable and mind blowing plots. I can never guess where she's going with a story and my jaw continues to drop with each new revelation. I just can't get enough of the intensity in her stories!
If you're the type of reader that can't handle DARK books, then this book isn't for you. Keri doesn't shy away from any dark corner in this story...she ventures into all the secret places in your mind without fear and then stays there for awhile just to test out your boundaries. So you better not have any because Dylan and Rip's story is gruesome, tragic, and sad, but there is love peppered in there to give the reader hope.
Keri's words have become my new addiction. Her stories are my drug of choice and I will not be quitting any time soon. I am working my way through her backlist (this is my 6th book of hers) and NONE of them are alike. They're all unique and touch on different topics and elements. She is a true talent. One all dark romance lovers needs to read. If this is your first book try at reading Keri's stories, you won't be disappointed by this standalone.
**Previously released in four separate novellas (called episodes), Keri now offers the entire collection in one epic book.
5 "Veni. Vidi. Amavi" (I came. I saw. I loved.) stars
I don't actively seek out mafia books, but when it's an author that has exceeded my expectations with their stories, then I make exceptions. RIPPLE EFFECT was that exception for me because I have loved everything I've read by Keri thus far and once again, she has exceeded my expectations and gave me a story that had me on the edge of my seat with my heart racing and my eyes glued to my phone all hours of the day. I could not read this book fast enough. The plot was complex, the characters were multi-faceted, the flow of the story was perfect...everything was flawless. From beginning to end, I was consumed. It was an insta-5 stars for me!
"Every decision you make affects every moment that follows, Dylan. It's like a ripple effect. Choose wisely." -Rip
This dark and gritty alpha male romance was utterly addictive! Told from dual POVs (Rip and Dylan), we get a flawlessly woven story. It's dark. It's suspenseful. It's raw. It's unputadownable. Keri truly excels at creating unpredictable and mind blowing plots. I can never guess where she's going with a story and my jaw continues to drop with each new revelation. I just can't get enough of the intensity in her stories!
If you're the type of reader that can't handle DARK books, then this book isn't for you. Keri doesn't shy away from any dark corner in this story...she ventures into all the secret places in your mind without fear and then stays there for awhile just to test out your boundaries. So you better not have any because Dylan and Rip's story is gruesome, tragic, and sad, but there is love peppered in there to give the reader hope.
Keri's words have become my new addiction. Her stories are my drug of choice and I will not be quitting any time soon. I am working my way through her backlist (this is my 6th book of hers) and NONE of them are alike. They're all unique and touch on different topics and elements. She is a true talent. One all dark romance lovers needs to read. If this is your first book try at reading Keri's stories, you won't be disappointed by this standalone.
**Previously released in four separate novellas (called episodes), Keri now offers the entire collection in one epic book.
5 "Veni. Vidi. Amavi" (I came. I saw. I loved.) stars
October 25, 2024
I highlighted something like 250 parts of this books….I LOVED IT. It destroyed me in such a beautiful way.
Firstly I adore Keri Lake and her writing style. I am not someone who easily pictures in their mind exactly what is going on in books and the rooms/places etc that are described. But with both of her books that I have read, I have almost had the movie playing along in my head, and to me that is the sign of a good author.
I fell so absolutely in love with Ripley and all his demons and like not to be dramatic but I would die for him.
Dylan is this amazing, strong. Self-succulent warrior woman who has overcome so many dark things in her life. And the fact she still has positivity and the strength to go on, just amazing.
There’s also the mystery aspect to this book that keeps you just as hooked as the dark romance and when I say you don’t get the full picture until the LAST 2% I really mean that.
By the end I was hyperventilating, crying, screeching with all the emotions.
So so good!
Steam rating: 18 Uk movie certificate
TWs:
Drugs: abuse of/forced to take
Prostitution
Child pornography (not explicity described but very aware of it happening)
Abuse
Sexual assault
Rape (not explicit but very aware of it)
Animal abuse (minor)
Torture
Blood
Withdrawal symptoms
Captivity
Firstly I adore Keri Lake and her writing style. I am not someone who easily pictures in their mind exactly what is going on in books and the rooms/places etc that are described. But with both of her books that I have read, I have almost had the movie playing along in my head, and to me that is the sign of a good author.
I fell so absolutely in love with Ripley and all his demons and like not to be dramatic but I would die for him.
Dylan is this amazing, strong. Self-succulent warrior woman who has overcome so many dark things in her life. And the fact she still has positivity and the strength to go on, just amazing.
There’s also the mystery aspect to this book that keeps you just as hooked as the dark romance and when I say you don’t get the full picture until the LAST 2% I really mean that.
By the end I was hyperventilating, crying, screeching with all the emotions.
So so good!
Steam rating: 18 Uk movie certificate
TWs:
Drugs: abuse of/forced to take
Prostitution
Child pornography (not explicity described but very aware of it happening)
Abuse
Sexual assault
Rape (not explicit but very aware of it)
Animal abuse (minor)
Torture
Blood
Withdrawal symptoms
Captivity
Displaying 1 - 30 of 139 reviews