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Shelley…
I had to run. I had to take my son and start over, somewhere his father would never find us. There’s not a chance in hell I’ll ever let him lay another hand on my son again. For a while I thought we were safe, I thought we managed to get away…but I was wrong.
Mikey…
I had a rough start in life, and it had the potential to ruin my future. But I was lucky. I had someone who taught me not to let my past define me. To take the bad and turn it into something good. Now, when I look at Shelly and her son, knowing their past, I realize I have to protect them. There’s a predator out there, lurking in the shadows, waiting for the perfect moment to strike.
But here’s the thing—the only way he’ll be able to get them…is if he kills me first.

Unknown Binding

First published January 9, 2018

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Alison Mello

29 books720 followers

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
Profile Image for Rhonda.
3,762 reviews63 followers
January 8, 2018
Wow! Just when I don't think this series can get any better, Alison Mello proves me wrong! I love Shelley and Mikey's story. On the run from a very painful past, Shelley and her son find protection in Mickey. But danger is still lurking and Mikey will do whatever he needs to do to protect them. The story just draws you in and wrings emotions out of you! Alison creates a wonderful story that will leave you cheering the characters on to their HEA!!!
Profile Image for Dusty Summerford (Reviews by Reds).
339 reviews28 followers
January 10, 2018
This was my first book in this series and I truly enjoyed it! I will definitely have to go back to read the others.

Shelley is doing what she has to do to ensure that her and her son have a better future. Plagued with a terrible past, she runs to start over with her son. But... The past will always find you. Luckily her new boss will stop at nothing to protect her.

I loved how in depth the characters were! It definitely makes me want to read the ones before!

4 Stars from Reviews By Reds
Profile Image for Samantha Grubey.
Author 4 books33 followers
February 2, 2023
So I love this series so much, you don’t have to read the other books to know the characters in this one but I would recommend it. The first book is Club Thrive: Compulsion, Club Thrive: Vendetta, Club Thrive: Agenda and Club Thrive: Deception and I loved all of those stories. I finally got around to reading the 5th book in this series and I had very high hopes! And they were of course met.

I love that Shelly got her happy ending especially after seeing how she was treated in Vixen in Club Thrive: Deception. I loved her story and I loved Ryker her little boy he was so adorable and cute! She was so strong and I loved how independent she wanted to be and that she was training to be a doctor. Mikey first appeared in Club Thrive: Compulsion and I was so happy when he got his story! I love his character! I loved how much he loved Shelly as well as Ryker her son. The moments of Mikey and Ryker were so adorable.

I loved the big family that we have through this and we get to see all the other characters. I loved that they are there and still so supportive and everything. It was great. Also the fact that the characters from there began to protect Shelly when they needed to, I loved it.

Eli is a right wanker. Hated him. That’s all I will say on him.

Overall it was a great story and a great plot, I really hope this isn’t the last story out of this series because I love them so much. I love the writing too.
Profile Image for Katt Alexander.
162 reviews7 followers
May 23, 2018
Shelley is a young mother who will do anything to protect her son, Ryker, including going on the run.

Shelley had a boyfriend named Eli. When Shelley unexpectedly got pregnant, her parents kicked her out after she refused to have an abortion. Having nowhere else to go Shelley moves in with Eli. Eli becomes extremely controlling and abusive, both emotionally and physically. At first, Shelley tries to ignore it. She’s trying to finish medical school so that she can get a better job to support her child. She doesn’t have anyone else to watch Ryker, and she can’t afford a babysitter.

One day, Shelley comes home to find Ryker hiding under his bed with bruises from where Eli had beaten him. She knew then that they had to leave. Even after Shelley moved out of her parents’ house, she tried to maintain a good relationship with her sister, Brea. Shelley confides in Brea, and the two come up with a plan to leave with Ryker. They don’t tell anyone else what they’re doing or where they’re going for fear that Eli will find out and come after them.

Mikey is co-owner of Club Thrive, the place that Shelley used to work. From the moment he saw Shelley, he knew that he wanted to be with her. Shelley is hesitant at first. After being in such an abusive relationship, she has her guard up and is afraid of being hurt again. She also has Ryker to protect. She doesn’t want to let just any guy near her son. Shelley decides that Mikey is good man, and agrees to go out with him. However, she doesn’t want to rush into things.

As Shelley and Mikey become more serious, Shelley’s past comes creeping up on them. Not only is her newfound love at risk, but so is her life, and the lives of Ryker, Brea, and anyone who stands in the way. Mikey vows to protect them no matter the cost, but is it enough? Or will Shelley’s worst nightmare suddenly become reality all over again?


I have read every book in the “Club Thrive” series, and I have loved them all, including this one. I don’t know how she does it, but Alison somehow finds a way to continue to build the series with new scenarios. Although there is a ton of drama, the events on this series are realistic enough that they could actually happen in real life. That makes the “Club Thrive” series so captivating, and the characters so relatable. Although each book can be read as a stand-alone, I would recommend reading them in order, because the characters overlap, and it’s easier to keep up with the plot lines. Each installment has more drama and suspense than the previous one. I’m always trying to guess what will happen next, but the twists keep me guessing. Once I started this book, I was hooked. The only bad thing I have to say is I wish the book hadn’t ended. I wasn’t ready for it to end!
Profile Image for Jennifer Pierson.
11.7k reviews188 followers
January 12, 2018
Shelley had to go on the run with her son. They had to start over in a place his father could never find them, and she had thought they found that. Mickey didn't have the greatest start in life, and could have turned out differently. Instead, someone took the time to teach him that his past didn't define him, and now he's successful. The day he came face to face with Shelley, he knew that he was going to make her his, but she was skittish. And when she finally let him in, he knew what was chasing her, he knew he would do anything to keep her safe. I absolutely LOVE this series, and each book keeps getting more exciting, if that's even possible! This book started out with a bang, and never slowed down for me to catch my breath. Shelley was a strong woman who would do anything for her young son, and she was bettering herself the whole time. It wasn't easy, but she never gave up, she just kept moving forward. And Mickey was the whole mouth watering alpha that wanted to take care of her! Now, I know he had his moments where he could have done things a little less high handed, but his heart was in the right place. Together they were TNT, which finally exploded into SCORCHIN sexy times that lit the sheets up! And the entertaining cast of secondaries were awesome, especially the tiny human, which made for breaks of humor to make me laugh. Alison Mello has made my list of addictions 3 books back with her talented writing style, as her f-bomb worthy twists & turns to keep my heart pounding! And all of these characters have quite a bit of angst to keep the emotions flowing out of me, which means I imprint on them immediately. I hope there are more books in this series, and HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND TO ALL!
Profile Image for Rachael Bromley.
1,650 reviews17 followers
January 3, 2018
Wow. What is there to say about this book. Alison Mello did a bang up job with this next book in the club thrive series. What do you do when the person you love and says they love your son not only attacks him but attacks you as well then blames you and justice isn't given because people around don't believe you? You run when you feel all is lost, you hide and try and make a life for you both, you work and get money just in case. My heart broke for Shelley and little Ryker when i first read the story of what happened. Shelley was working at a strip club, earning money to finish her medics degree and putting a roof over her head. She wants out but she doesn't think she will because of the owner. When Slade wonders in and gets a dance and she gives the info she fears for herself, then she catches sight of Slade being dragged down an alleyway.

She works somewhere new and Mikey the owner of the club has an interest in her. Before long her past come back to haunt her and her son. Nightmares ensue as she fights for her son so her ex doesn't get him. With the help of Mikey and the rest of the family to ensure their safety. Will she ever feel safe, can they get her past to stay in the past, will they get the HEA they deserve?

A fantastic book that I sat up all night reading. Yep I sat up from 2am until just after 5am (UK time of course) devouring this book. My heart stopped in places, I was shouting at others, I had tears in my eyes and my heart broke when I read about Ryker. Alison did a fantastic job with the anger, the pride, the fear, the helplessness coming from the characters. I had tears when Slade thought he had let Shelley down big time. A series that everyone has to read. You will enjoy it. I voluntarily reviewed this book as an advanced reader copy
Profile Image for CoffeeMom H.
175 reviews12 followers
January 5, 2018
First, a good book must have some elements to make it a good book, such as it must make you laugh, cry, want to throw the book and lastly hold on and not let go to the very last page. So this book did all of that for me. Alison Mello has a way to draw you in holds you as if you are standing right there, emotions are raw and so in your face that it's hard to stop reading as you want to know what happens next. Now Predator is Shelley and Mikey's book. (so happy Mikey got his own book!!) This book for me was an emotional rollercoaster in a good way. So we have Shelley who is running from her ex with her little man Ryker and living with her sister and then we have Mikey who is part owner of a strip club where Shelley just got hired. Shelley is one hard working single mom doing all she can to make ends meet for her and her son. I am not one for spoilers but you really need to read this one! Let's just say the rest of the book is steamy hot, and you will not want to put it down until your done. You will be sad, however, when you turn that last page as you will want to keep reading. The whole Club Thrive Series is epic and each book gets better and better! I highly recommend this book and series. I am sad to see this series end. This could be read as a stand-alone but I suggest you read the whole series as each book even though it has a new couple, the other couples make appearances so you learn more about them as well.
Profile Image for Wendy Livingstone.
20k reviews255 followers
January 10, 2018
This is the 5th book in this awesome series. Shelley is on the run from her abusive ex, and works in a strip club in order to support herself and her son. When she is offered a new job after rescuing Slade, she now works in a club where one of the owners is Mikey. These two are instantly drawn to each other, and the chemistry between them is explosive. While still on the lookout for approaching danger, Shelley now has Mikey doing whatever he has to in order to protect her and her son. No spoilers; this is an absolute must read, you will not be disappointed!
This author has done a wonderful job in writing this series, and has given her all too each and every one of her characters. I was totally captivated with this story from the very beginning, and I cannot wait to read more of her work. I highly recommend this authors’ work for all readers. Brilliant work Alison!
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book!
Profile Image for Wendy Livingstone.
20k reviews255 followers
January 10, 2018
This is the 5th book in this awesome series. Shelley is on the run from her abusive ex, and works in a strip club in order to support herself and her son. When she is offered a new job after rescuing Slade, she now works in a club where one of the owners is Mikey. These two are instantly drawn to each other, and the chemistry between them is explosive. While still on the lookout for approaching danger, Shelley now has Mikey doing whatever he has to in order to protect her and her son. No spoilers; this is an absolute must read, you will not be disappointed!
This author has done a wonderful job in writing this series, and has given her all too each and every one of her characters. I was totally captivated with this story from the very beginning, and I cannot wait to read more of her work. I highly recommend this authors’ work for all readers. Brilliant work Alison!
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book!
Profile Image for Viper Spaulding.
3,146 reviews25 followers
January 10, 2018
Mikey is absolutely perfect for Shelly! Such a sweet guy, he was ready to give her everything she forgot she deserved in a relationship. And Ryker - what a little heartbreaker! I just wanted to hug the stuffing out of that little boy.

Shelly is on the run from her past, and finds herself being adopted by the Club Thrive family after she was instrumental in saving Slade's life. Mikey is instantly drawn to her, and she to him, but life has taught her to be careful who she trusts, so it takes her a while to risk her heart again.

The writing is excellent, the story moves along at a quick pace, and the suspense was just right without being overdone. It was wonderful to see the couples from the previous books in the series and catch up with them and their families.

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
Profile Image for Alphas Do It Better Book Blog .
3,678 reviews97 followers
January 11, 2018
5 Fantastic Stars

In this book we get the story of Mikey and Shelly and it was completely worth the wait. Shelly has been brought into the circle of the Club Thrive family since she was so important in Slade’s story. Now we see how this single mother juggles Ryker, school, working at the new club and Mikey who will not let her say no to dating. Of course no relationship can run smoothly though for the Club Thrive bunch, and when Shelly’s past comes back to hurt her and Ryker, we see what makes this group so special. I loved this story and loved Mikey even more now that he got his own book. I hope we see more of these characters in another book soon!

Cara - Alphas Do It Better Book Blog
748 reviews2 followers
January 8, 2018
The next installment in the Club Thrive series

Shelly has had it hard. She’s had to turn to stripping to support her and her son while in medical school after leaving her abusive ex. Believing he’s in jail she goes about her life as usual, until one night a man is taken out of the club she works at. She goes to the police and all turns out well (see Club Thrive Deception). When the owner is killed and the club closes, she’s offered a waitressing job at the newly redone club.

Mikey is part owner of Oasis. The first time he sees Shelly he knows he wants to know her better. They become close and Shelly tells him her story. When he finds out that her ex is out things heat up. Can he keep Shelly and her son safe?

I really like this whole series and look forward to each installment.
Profile Image for Lisa Reynolds.
148 reviews9 followers
January 11, 2018
Predator (The final book to Club Thrive series)

I loved this story with Mikey, Shelley and Ryker. What an amazing book to finish out the Club Thrive family. I love how she brought her characters from the other books into this too. How she made the friends/family grow. It made me heart happy that Mikey had his own story. This book had its drama, and the passion that heats you up. I love how the (kids) Ryker was a huge part of the story too. Please take a chance on this series and this book. I'm sure you'll enjoy meeting the Thrive family as I like to call them. Thank you for an amazing book and series. I'm looking forward to more from this author.
PS. I'm going to miss these character's.
Profile Image for Teri.
3,918 reviews37 followers
January 5, 2018
The Club Thrive family is growing and back in action. After helping Slade Shelly meets Mickey and that's all she wrote he is stuck hook line and sinker. But nothing is easy with these couples and all they deal with only makes them closer. Ryker just stole my heart and everyone else's too. Great story with the excitement of the hunt and the chase. Great story. Shelly and Ryker are a great addition to the family.

This author brings us another great story to the Club Thrive series. The couples continue to show up which gives us an update on their success as well. This group plays together and grows together.
Profile Image for Michelle.
10.6k reviews28 followers
January 11, 2018
Predator is book number 5 in the Club Thrive Series. Alison Mello has written another amazing book with believable characters. Her stories pull me in and make me feel like I truly know all the characters in the book. There is an element of danger that is woven into this story that has you on the edge of your seat wondering what will happen next. When Shelly's abusive ex comes back she has to fight to keep herself and her son Ryker safe. I love the way Mikey is so protective over Shelly and Ryker. Mikey and Shelly are perfect together and their chemistry is hot! I can't wait to read the next book by this amazing author. I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.
Author 1 book12 followers
January 9, 2018
I've read and loved all of these but this one just had something extra that appealed to me. I'm not even sure what it was, it could be way Mikey and Shelley clicked from the first meeting or it could be how adorable I found Ryker. Plus I got a bad guy I really detested and also got to catch up with everyone from the previous books!
Any way you look at it, I loved this one. The story was so good, matter of fact it was so good, I muted all my messenger notifications and hid from Facebook while I read it through in one Read! I love when I don't want to put a story down, best feeling ever.
Profile Image for Gladys.
13.9k reviews163 followers
January 5, 2018
Club Thrive: Predator is a very good read. Book is well written and has a powerful and emotional storyline. Characters are complex and generate plenty of heat and steam. Shelly's past is painful and heartbreaking, Mikey is sweet and alpha and the hero she and her son deserve. This book is another great addition to the Club Thrive series and I highly recommend it and all the others to fans of sexy and hot romances. I'm posting a voluntary review after reading an ARC copy of this book.
Profile Image for Kerry Pruett.
628 reviews10 followers
January 13, 2018
Another great story to add to the Club Thrive series. I always look forward to each story as they come out. I love how Mickey includes Ryker in his and Shelly's relationship from the very beginning. Ryker is such a sweet boy. Shelly is such a wonderful mother finding her way to love. I always enjoy the journey that each couple takes. My heart loves every minute I spend reading each word of the stories. It is a wonderful series that includes a growing family of friends.
Profile Image for Gina Burkart.
3,547 reviews52 followers
January 15, 2018
Wow this is a amazing book and this would be the first book that I’ve read by Alison and will not the be the end. I will what to read the series from the beginning as this is the first in the series that I’ve read. This is a must read book. This book will draw you in from the first page to the very end. This is about a single mom on the run to protect her child and herself when she working she runs in to a guy that wants to protect her.. this is a must read..
3,926 reviews31 followers
January 21, 2018
I can't help but love a man like Mikey, who has that sexy hot alpha male instinct in him, yet has a sweet and big-hearted side to him as well. Shelly and Ryker are on the run from her abusive ex, and Mikey is not only taken with Shelly, but he's also claimed both Shelly and Ryker and given them his protection. This was an exciting and thrilling book, and I love the characters, especially how they all rally to have each other's backs. A wonderfully fantastic read!!
Profile Image for United Indie Book Blog.
4,671 reviews85 followers
February 2, 2018
This is my first read in the series and let me say it won't be my last. Shelley and Mikey's story is wonderful! There is danger around what seems every corner and Mikey will do whatever it takes to protect Shelley and her son. The depth these characters have and all the emotions that are pulled from you keep you reading. Truly an enjoyable read and I will be reading the others in the series!

review by Raychel
Profile Image for Lori Amey.
425 reviews14 followers
January 10, 2018
I love the Club Thrive series. Every book has it's own unique love story. Club Thrive Predator has some of everything, love, mystery, and suspense. I loved it that Mikey got a book and a girl. He and Shelley were so good together and I was routing for them. It's always wonderful to catch up with everyone from previous books. Take a chance on this book and this series, your going to love it.
Profile Image for Gina Burkart.
3,547 reviews52 followers
January 1, 2018
Wow what a amazing book. This is the first book that I've read in this series and from Alison Mello. I love the writing style that Alison has. Her writing style draws you in to the book and keeps you through out the book. I will have to read the whole series as I'll want to know everyone story and how it has all started.. this is a fantastic read to a ending of the series..
Profile Image for SiKReviews.
1,325 reviews5 followers
January 12, 2018
A story about perseverance, survival, and love. Shelley is such a brave woman. She gave all to keep her son, then did it again to keep him safe. I loved how Mikey embraced Shelley's son. Not only did he fall for the mother, but he fell in love with her son too. How can you not swoon over a guy like that?
A book worthy of the Club Thrive name. I think it is my favorite of them all.
Profile Image for Cathy Arbo.
26 reviews1 follower
February 25, 2019
Love this book! Love the Club Thrive series!
These books are well written. The ad tory line flows easily, and although it is a series, each book can be read as a stand alone. All the main characters have their own book with short fill ins about the rest of the characters and how they are connected to the ones in each book
Love reading books by Alison!
Profile Image for Chrissi.
1,578 reviews11 followers
January 1, 2018
Love it when a book has characters from previous series pop in and out!! So glad that Mikey had his story told, and even happier he got his very own HEA! With drama, heat and action this book has a little of everything,
Profile Image for Latifa Morrisette.
2,578 reviews63 followers
January 10, 2018
I loved Shelley and Mikey's book. This series is fantastic and I'm so glad I got to read it. If you've read the previous book you know how this story gets going. All I'm going to say is you must read this book it is amazing. You won't be disappointed.
Profile Image for Wendy Ballard.
653 reviews1 follower
January 13, 2019
What I liked about this book it tells you about what happened in the books before and some kind of new trouble coming up and showing how family blood or not should act I loves these book and now I want to see what happen next
34 reviews
October 8, 2018
Awesome read!

This was an awesome read and finale in the Club Thrive series! I loved the sexiness and the suspenseful twist and turns! I would highly recommend this series!
Profile Image for Nicole Collins.
1,384 reviews13 followers
September 26, 2020
Stalker

This story was full of drama and suspense. I could not put this story down. I highly recommend this story to others. This series is amazing!
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