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Z’s day begins with sadness
A phone call from a dying friend leaves psychologist Zachary Grayson determined to fulfill the old survivalist’s request--a send-off that will comfort his grieving sons.

And then turns deadly
The death threat is only the beginning…because the letter isn’t a hoax. Z walks out of his office into a barrage of bullets. He can take being shot at, but when the second shot splinters the empty child-seat in his car, he’s shaken to the core. The horror of what would have happened if his little girl had been there spurs him to action.

Master Z is a Dom, a husband, a father—every instinct drives him to protect those under his care. When the police can’t catch his stalker, he must take matters into his own hands.

He must keep danger far from those he loves.
Secrecy and distance is the key. The funeral in Alaska is the perfect location, especially since Z won’t be alone. The survivalist’s sons have grown into men with lethal skills. With their help, he can trap the shooter and keep his family safe.

As long as his impetuous and all-too-observant wife, Jessica, doesn’t discover he’s using himself as bait.

136 pages, ebook

First published December 4, 2018

726 people are currently reading
1316 people want to read

About the author

Cherise Sinclair

67 books8,336 followers
A New York Times and USA Today bestselling author, she’s renowned for writing heart-wrenching romances with laugh-out-loud dialogue, alpha males, and absolutely sizzling sex.

I met my dearheart when vacationing in the Caribbean. Now I won’t say it was love at first sight. Actually since he stood over me, enjoying the view down my swimsuit top, I might have been a tad peeved—as well as attracted. But although we were together less than two days and lived on opposite sides of the country, love can’t be corralled by time or space.

We’ve now been married for many, many years. (And he still looks down my swimsuit tops.)

Nowadays, I live in the west with this obnoxious, beloved husband and a seventy-pound lap-puppy. I’m a gardener, and I love nurturing small plants until they’re big and healthy and productive…and ripping defenseless weeds out by the roots when I’m angry. I enjoy thunderstorms, collecting eggs from the chickens, and visiting the local brewery for the darkest, maltiest beer on tap. My favorite way to spend an evening is curled up on a couch next to the master of my heart, watching the fire, reading, and…well…if you’re reading my books, you obviously know what else happens in front of fires.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 248 reviews
Profile Image for Lana ❇✾DG Romance❇✾.
2,313 reviews13.7k followers
December 15, 2018
4 STARS
Mako had been a master of war, but he’d known love was the strongest force in the universe.

Defiance was essentially a transition novella that introduces four brand new characters that will launch a new series from the queen of BDSM. It really had the perfect combination of things; a visit to one of my favorite Shadowlands couples, Master Z and his kitten, a cameo by one of my favorite sadists, deVries, and a suspenseful plot that introduces 4 intriguing new characters in a brand new series. It doesn't get any better than that!

When Master Z receives a call from a dear friend to let him know that he's dying, he doesn't expect that his death would be as sudden as a car accident. Then when a stalker threatens his life, an escape to the wilderness of Alaska for Mako's funeral seems like a great opportunity to take the threat as far away from his beloved family as he can.

The story introduces the reader to Mako's four foster sons; raised as survivalist and each with their own story of pain that hooks you immediately and reels you right in. With Gabe's story being the first in the series, you get a much longer peek inside his head in this book. And I'm already chomping at the bit to get my hands on his story.

The novella was perfectly paced, with plenty of romance, action, and suspense. I loved getting another visit with Master Z and Jessica. I also couldn't get enough of the four foster brothers. I can already tell that series is going to be amazing. Fans of Sinclair will not want to miss this book!

ARC courtesy of author in exchange for an honest review

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Profile Image for Ⓐlleskelle - That ranting lady ッ.
1,038 reviews956 followers
December 8, 2018
I don’t think you can ever have too much of Master Z and his kitten, as a fan of MotS I was delighted to read more little snippets from their life in this novella set to introduce brand new characters for an upcoming spin-off of the Shadowlands, albeit more mainstream oriented than the BDSM series: Sons of the Survivalist.

We get to peek into Zachary and Jessica’s lives with their little girl, meet briefly with DeVries (from Dark Haven series) and 3 of the 4 brothers from the new series as Master Z tries to get rid of a stalker set on killing him.
It's not necessary to read any of the Masters of the Shadowlands to appreciate this novella but hopefully it will give any new reader an incentive to try them.

Set in Alaska, Sons of the Survivalist series will be about four foster brothers, sons of Master Z’s old friend, First Sergeant Mako.
First book, "Not a Hero", will be about Gabriel—Gabe, retired Seal and now settling as the chief of police in the little town of Rescue. In his path, Audrey, shy introverted librarian, full of secrets and apparently no past.

If Sons of The Survivalist is anything like what Cherise Sinclair got us used to in her previous series, we can hope for possessive and caring heroes mixed with suspensful romance probably minus the BDSM element, and I can't wait to read more about them, especially after that excerpt at the end of this novella.
Bring on January 29th!

More reviews and book talk at :

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Profile Image for Vintage.
2,714 reviews718 followers
December 7, 2018
Don't get me wrong, mediocre Cherise Sinclair is better than no Cherise Sinclair.

It doesn't make me happy to say that this barely scraped to a three star, AND IT HAS MASTER Z!

This is a transition novel using the eloquent, masterful, savvy, sexy...I'm going to stop now...Master Z, the sub Whisperer, from the Shadowlands series. Master Z and cute Jessica, but the effort was phoned in.

Had to laugh when their 18 month old daughter runs around naked after her bath. I guess the apple doesn't fall far from the tree. Let's see how Z handles that when she is 18.

PLOT
A madman is after Z, and he leaves for Alaska for a friend's funeral and to draw the madman away from his family. Rolled my eyes when he gives Jessica a loving goodbye. A loving goodbye? Are you kidding me? He didn't manacle her and spank her?

Anyhoo, the madman has already shot Z once, and gets another shot in then another attempt despite three out of the four hunky men from this series being on the scene.

All in all, this fell flat. The writing, the story, the villain, the connections between the male characters ( Master Z and the adopted sons of his friend) and the setup IF these new characters are Doms just wasn't there.

Is this a deal killer for Cherise Sinclair and me? Nope. I'll get the next one, but I have a feeling that her writing truly sparks when she is writing about her core characters.
Profile Image for Maria Dimitrova.
748 reviews148 followers
December 9, 2018
A new book from my favourite erotica writer? Gimme! It's a good thing I follow this author on Facebook or I might have missed this little gem. It's a bridge novella that introduces us to the characters of a new contemporary series through the eyes of two of the most beloved characters of the Masters of the Shadowlands series.

This is more a treat for the long-time readers and a way to whet our appetites for this new endeavor. I'm actually quite curious to see how Ms. Sinclair will handle a non-BDSM relationship and if the smutty scenes will be as scorching. After all the bar is set pretty high.

Like the rest of her later books the focus here is on the plot and the relationships between the characters rather than on the sex scenes. Don't get me wrong, there was always a plot in her books but in the beginning it was fairly cliched and the books themselves had a lot more sex in them. Things have changed and to me it seems like a good change.

I think Defiance can be read as a standalone but it would be a lot more enjoyable to those familiar with both the Masters of the Shadowlands and Mountain Masters series.
Profile Image for Shayna.
1,812 reviews615 followers
December 5, 2018
“I am yours as much as you are mine.”

Defiance by Cherise Sinclair was a mesmerizing erotic novella with an emotional payoff like no other. Fans of the incredible Masters of the Shadowlands series will be absolutely THRILLED with diving back into Master Z and Jessica’s life. Like many other fans, this couple will forever be a favorite of mine, and I was glad that Ms. Sinclair chose them to bridge the gap to a brand-spankin’ new series! I’m so eager and excited for what’s to come!

ARC Tag
Profile Image for Cécile Smits .
1,460 reviews288 followers
April 9, 2024
Lately,i’ve been going through Cherise Sinclair’s series again.
Because,besides enjoying ARC’s and beta reads,i seem to be in the mood for her feelgood stories.
Yes,bad stuff happens,but there’s always that solid base of love,trust,growth and delicious kinky sex.
And no matter how often i read her stories,i’m always left with a good feeling at the last page.



YES! I adore anything written by Cherise and when i heard this one was coming? I went straight to my iBooks and pre-ordered. Because if it’s written by Cherise,i know i’m going to love it!

Catching up with Z and Jessica was great,even if there was a threat hanging over Z’s head. More to the point,someone was out for his life. And when his good friend Mako dies,leaving his 4 sons behind,he decides to take that threat with him to Alaska,where the funeral will be. He orders Jessica to stay at her parents with their daughter Sophia. If you know Jessica,you know what happens.....And if you know Z,you know how he plans to deal with both the threat ánd his disobeying sub......

That glimpse at Mako’s sons.....WOW! I can’t wait for thát series to arrive,ánd i heard there’s more Mountain Masters & Dark Haven coming.....2019 is going to be a great year!
Profile Image for Annie .
2,506 reviews940 followers
December 4, 2018


DEFIANCE is a novella set in the Masters of the Shadowlands world. It’s about Z and Jessica, one of the most important couples that we have previously seen in the series. What’s interesting about this novella and I think makes it worth picking up is the fact that it’s a transition book for Sinclair’s new series, which will be set in Alaska.

Another reason to check out this book is the fact that although it’s just a novella, it handles some pretty heavy stuff. That’s one of the things I love about Sinclair’s writing. She doesn’t shy away from the dark stuff. It was also nice to go back and kind of get a end cap to the series since Z had the first book.

There were some scenes in this story that made me very sad and I think it has to do with what is also happening in my personal life. But I do think it’s Sinclair’s writing that touches people and really makes them think.

I always look forward to reading Sinclair’s book and now I’m even more excited to see what else is in store from her.
Profile Image for Jan.
1,100 reviews245 followers
January 29, 2019
It was reasonable, although I'm not a bdsm or dom-sub fan usually. But luckily there wasn't too much of that in this novella. It's a kind of crossover from the Masters of the Shadowlands into the new series Sons of the Survivalist, which is why I read the novella. I've only read two or three Shadowlands books, but I'm going to give the new series a try, because I quite liked the author's pnr series The Wild Hunt Legacy. I like her writing style, just not the bdsm stuff.

So this one was not too bad. Probably great if you're a Shadowlands fan. To each his own, but for me personally, I just don't find pain or spanking sexy.
Profile Image for Simply Love Book Reviews.
7,046 reviews870 followers
December 6, 2018

What a way to introduce a new series! Cherise Sinclair is starting a new group of books about four young men raised as brothers -and to let readers get to know them, she sends Master Z, the owner of the Shadowlands, to Alaska to arrange for their adopted father’s funeral.

But Zachary Grayson, aka Master Z, is dealing with his own problems-someone wants him dead. And for once, Z’s smooth approach to life is ruffled because he doesn’t want to frighten his wife, Jessica, with the truth. But Jessica is never one to back down from a challenge. Can they overcome the breach of trust and find their way back to their family, while keeping Z safe?

For fans of the Masters of the Shadowlands, this is a deeply satisfying book, with a close look at Zachary and Jessica’s relationship. We even have a touch of the Dark Haven folks thrown in for good measure as DeVries is Z’s bodyguard in Alaska. The testosterone in the room with those two Doms in the same place is off the charts!

Expect some hot, kinky sex, captivating characters, a plot that keeps you on the edge of your seat, and a most satisfying read. There’s a reason Cherise Sinclair is at the top of my reading list, and this book exemplifies that reason.
214 reviews
December 19, 2018
What a great time reading this book. I feel like I’ve missed time with Master Z & Jessica. Master Z finds himself a stalker in the form of a disgruntled ex marine. We learn that a very close friend of zacks has passed away in Alaska. He agrees to take care of all the arrangements while leaving Jessica &Sofia under personal protection. Being the obedient (wink) sub that we’ve come to love Jessica’s (who has no idea about the danger) idea is to console her husband. Jumping a flight to join z she has no idea what she’s walking into. Read the book to learn the rest. I dare not give anything away.

I haven’t read a book from this author in awhile and now I’m sorry I haven’t. Ms. Sinclair writes another great book with steamy sex, great relationships and truly lovable characters. Can’t wait til the boys from Alaska get their own book. Maybe they’ll just moved to the Shadowlands too!
Profile Image for M.L. Sparrow.
Author 22 books164 followers
December 9, 2018
For more reviews, check out my blog at http://mlsparrow.wix.com/mlsparrow

I hate to write this review, because Cherise Sinclair is one of my three favourite authors. I was really excited when I opened this months newsletter and found out this book was out, since there had been no previous clues about us getting another Shadowlands book yet, so I immediately snapped it up and read it in a few hours, since it is only short. However, I personally felt like this book was missing something. The writing style wasn't the same, the heat was seriously damped down and the plot honestly lacked something. Also, I'm probably the only Shadowlands fan that actually didn't enjoy Z and Jessica's first book (although I loved seeing them in the other stories where they were supporting characters.) Although it was nice getting a glimpse into the characters married life and how their relationship had adapted, I honestly felt like there was little point to this book. It said in the newsletter, that the author was actually asked the write this story as a way to introduce the characters of her new series, Sons of the Survivalist, and really you could tell that her heart wasn't in it and this wasn't something she had been inspired and excited to write.

I am intrigued by the new series though - although I'm desperately hoping this isn't the end of the Shadowlands series, since I can still think of characters that need stories! - and I've already pre-ordered book one, Not A Hero. 

Like I've already said, I love this author and I'd definitely recommend reading her work if you enjoy a bit of BDSM heat in your romance, however, I wouldn't bother with this one especially, as I personally didn't feel it added anything to the series... 
Profile Image for ♂♀♂ Mary's Menage Reviews ♂♂♀.
433 reviews233 followers
December 7, 2018
I could resume my review with two words: must read.

Cherise Sinclair never fails to deliver a rainbow of emotions. This book almost ends the series as it started... with the hero every woman wishes to have in real life... Master Z. But every woman can relate to the heroine, Jessica. But it goes further. Plot and writing style just do it for me. Shadowlands is about Dons and submissives but what makes it special to me is that heroes are not alpha assholes like I generally read elsewhere. Cherise Sinclair arrives this masterpiece to make me laugh and awe and cry and smile and each times I am glued reading her stories until the end. Regardless her genre, she is an automatic buy. Considering how humble this lady is... Her popularity is deserved and more!

My issue is that she does not publish more stories quicker.

This story was also the introduction of her new Alaska series. I cross my fingers a ménage will show up... not holding my breath but still hoping. 4 brothers. First book will be published in January 29, 2019 on amazon. Mark your calendar as I did mine!!

Mary



Profile Image for Jamie.
2,052 reviews94 followers
February 26, 2024
I used to love these books and now I'm really struggling. They are irritating me more than something to enjoy.

I really loved Jessica and Z, but the more I read about Jessica, I struggle with her character. Her flying to Alaska in this one didn't need to happen. For once in her life she could've been smart and done what she was supposed to.

There was also a lot of nonsense in this book to just fill the pages, like 7 chapters worth of fill. Which is sad really because this was a novella.

I'm not sure if I want to keep reading these or not. I probably will because well I've already paid for them, and two I'm a gluten for punishment.
Profile Image for Twinsie Talk Angie J.
1,809 reviews
November 21, 2018
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I received this book from the author for an honest review.

YES!! This book was a great sneak peak at one of my favorite Shadowlands couples. Getting to hang with Master Z, Jessica and baby Sophia was the best. It made me remember why I fell in love with this series to begin with!!!

Master Z is so happy and in love with his family and Jessica. When he gets the letter and an attempt is made on his life, our dominant loses focus and begins to spiral a bit. The dynamic relationship of Z and Jessica is one of trust and respect so to see him keeping secrets because he thinks it’s the best thing made me sad. I understood him COMPLETELY but I was still sad at him for not being honest with the woman he views as his equal everywhere except the bedroom*Wink* Too bad for him, Z his sprite of a submissive and wife, won’t take no for an answer!! When the conflict arises, and we are joined by deVeries…yikes I knew it was serious stuff!! Because he is not one to be messed with.

I enjoyed the story of Z, the Stalker and Jessica but getting to know these new men made my little heart pitter patter!! Gabe, Caz, Hawk and Bull are going to be definite fan favorites I am sure. The little snippets we got to see of them men when they are dealing with the loss of their father plus helping out Z …yup this alpha lover was sold!!!
Profile Image for The BookChick .
1,454 reviews425 followers
December 19, 2018
I have read reviews from others claiming that they didn't like the story or that it was lack luster. I honestly have to disagree with their assessments. Although this story presented a much different Master Z, I loved the feel of humanity in this story. In the other books, he was the all powerful Dom who had a finger on the pulse of everything. Yet, in this book, he was the vulnerable one and other people had to support him. Also, the introduction to the brothers in the new series was a great way to do it. It's a given that we will see characters cross over in the new series.
Profile Image for E.G. Manetti.
Author 18 books157 followers
January 10, 2021
I love Z and Jessica, so any book with the two of them is a solid three-stars. This wasn't so much about them as setting up the 'Sons of the Survivalist' series, and as such, was a bit thin overall.
Profile Image for Cindy.
2,349 reviews172 followers
November 21, 2018
An extraordinary book that is the bridge to a new series that is going to be set in Alaska.

So what makes it so extraordinary? Well Zachary Grayson is the main character and the book does not take place in the Shadowlands. We get to see Master Z in his real life job, dealing with real life problems including having a stalker who wants him dead and an old friend who is dying who asks him for a final request. One of those things has him breaking a promise he and his wife Jessica made when they married – to never lie or hide the truth from the other.

There were so many surprises in this book. Along with getting a lot more background on where Z came from and his time in the military, one of his assigned bodyguards is Alexander deVries (from the Dark Haven series). It was just as thrilling to see him also in his real job role. Along with the suspense of the stalker that wants Z dead the main purpose of this novella is to introduce to the 4 men that will make up a new series that will be called Sons of the Survivalist. They are 4 orphan boys that Zachary's old friend First Sergeant Mako raised. We only get to meet 3 of the 4 and though they are not DOMs they are still every bit as big, alpha and broody.

Even though this was a novella size book it packed a punch from beginning to end with tons of story. I cannot wait for the new series and loved getting so much of Zachary and Jessica outside of the club.
Profile Image for Glamdring.
508 reviews111 followers
January 4, 2019
2,5 stars

Very quick read revisiting Master Z and Jessica while introducing the characters of a new series to come.

If I liked the cameo and found the new protagonists interesting the suspense plot kind of fell flat.
Profile Image for Sandra R.
3,346 reviews46 followers
December 8, 2018
I enjoyed this novella. It was well written as usual from this author and you could read it as a stand alone. However, it helps if you've read the shadowlands series as the H/h in this story have been in every one of those books. This novella is setting up the next series from Cherise, as there are points of view from the hero starring in the next book, as well as Jessica and Master Z. I am looking forward to reading the first of those which will be out in January next year. As to this story, it is an engaging read with some action and explicit romance scenes between the H/h and continues their story forward. There's a lot packed in this two hour read.
Profile Image for Lovingbooks1.
1,187 reviews24 followers
December 13, 2018
I love Maste Z

Short but so good, filled with love, action and great characters.
The storyline is good building up nicely and ends slowly, just how I like it to be.
No unnecessary descriptions of surroundings
Good dialogues
Love scenes is hot but also sweet

I must say Sinclair has a way of teasing us with new characters that will have their own story. Can’t wait for the brothers to find their happy ever after.

Excellent afternoon read that you don’t want to put down.

5 stars 🌟
Profile Image for Kathryn.
2,901 reviews91 followers
December 9, 2018
Another winner from Cherise Sinclair. And you can't go wrong with a story about Z and Jessica. Ever. There is something so special about their chemistry that rolls over you like your favorite reading blanket. There is intrigue, suspense, scary parts (!), and our ever favorite D/s relationship issues. Everything about this story makes me just so shivery. I love that we are introduced somewhat to characters that will be in the authors new series and that we get even more about Zachary's back story. Well done story.
Profile Image for Deb B.
1,852 reviews16 followers
February 13, 2019
I love, love, love reading Cherise Sinclair's works. Brilliant writing, thoroughly engaging with some of the best characters and stories that I have had the pleasure to read not only in this genre but across the board. This is essentially a crossover to introduce the new Survivalist series but there was plenty of action between Jessica and Z and I also enjoyed the cameos with DeVries. Very much looking forward to the new series
Profile Image for Barb.
919 reviews16 followers
December 5, 2018
Fabulous little check in with Master Z and Jessica. It was simple and sweet, yet still had the edge and the steam that are associated with a Masters of the Shadowlands read and was just long enough for a quick coffee break. You do not have to have read the Masters of the Shadowlands books to appreciate this novella, but it might help to know the characters a little bit better.
Profile Image for Relly.
1,648 reviews28 followers
October 4, 2022
Reread 2022

Goo addition to the series and a good introduction to the new boys
Looking forward to starting the new series

Good

4 stars ⭐️

Great to see Z and Jessica again. I love how they interact and how they actually talk to each other and resolve things by talking it out. They are true partners.
Good lead in to the new series
Profile Image for Ginny Rose.
556 reviews30 followers
December 16, 2018
Master Z and Jessica are my favorite Shadowlands couple, so this was just what I needed.

In addition, we get a peek of a new series about four brothers who are alpha, protective and dominant. I seriously cannot wait for this.

Another author who is giving me a reason to visit Alaska.
Profile Image for Under the Covers Book Blog.
2,840 reviews1,342 followers
December 4, 2018



I received this book for free from Author in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.


DEFIANCE is a novella set in the Masters of the Shadowlands world. It’s about Z and Jessica, one of the most important couples that we have previously seen in the series. What’s interesting about this novella and I think makes it worth picking up is the fact that it’s a transition book for Sinclair’s new series, which will be set in Alaska.

Another reason to check out this book is the fact that although it’s just a novella, it handles some pretty heavy stuff. That’s one of the things I love about Sinclair’s writing. She doesn’t shy away from the dark stuff. It was also nice to go back and kind of get a end cap to the series since Z had the first book.

There were some scenes in this story that made me very sad and I think it has to do with what is also happening in my personal life. But I do think it’s Sinclair’s writing that touches people and really makes them think.

I always look forward to reading Sinclair’s book and now I’m even more excited to see what else is in store from her.

*ARC provided by author
Reviewed by Ann❤ ♡ Don't want to miss any of our posts? Subscribe to our blog by email! ♡ ❤
Profile Image for Jewlsbookblog.
2,209 reviews74 followers
January 16, 2019
Z has picked up a dangerous stalker, lost an old friend, and is heading to Alaska to set up a farewell party for his friend’s sons and fellow friends. However, instead of explaining all of this to his wife Jessica, he pretends he’s in control and goes about his business not expecting her to disregard his instructions in favor of meeting his emotional needs. Of course, danger follows and now everybody is involved in trying to capture the stalker.

Rather then read the series straight through, I tend to randomly pick up a Shadowlands book based on whatever character catches my eye because not all of the BDSM elements are my cup of tea. I have always gotten a kick out of Master Z and his psychologist moments so this novella was fun to jump into. I wouldn’t say it’s the best Cherise has written, but it does the job it was meant to by giving a nice introduction and set up to her next series, Sons of the Survivalist. The story also gives a glimpse into Z and Jessica’s life with their precocious daughter and deVries doing his usual bodyguard detail so all in all, I was a happy reader.
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