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Dark Falls #1
Dark Falls
A cop hunting a violent thrill seeker. A woman from his past. Will their history and heated attraction put his case on ice?
Detective John Sevier never wanted to be anything but a cop. When a string of jewelry store heists threatens the woman he let get away years before, he'll stop at nothing to bring the adrenaline junkie gang leader to justice.
Ava McNair never looked at her life as a sacrifice. She loves taking care of her dad and running her family's jewelry store with her special needs sister. So what if that meant dropping out of college and leaving behind a man who just might have been the one? When fate gives her and the detective who got away a second shot at love, will she step up and take it or will life tear them apart again?
With Ava in the path of a killer, will John be able to move fast enough to take down a violent man set on wreaking as much damage as he can before he goes down?
Dark Falls is the first book in the gripping new Dark Falls, CO romantic thriller series by Lori Ryan, Trish McCallan, Becca Jameson, Savannah Kade, Lisa-Marie Cabrelli, and Sandra Owens.
Detective John Sevier never wanted to be anything but a cop. When a string of jewelry store heists threatens the woman he let get away years before, he'll stop at nothing to bring the adrenaline junkie gang leader to justice.
Ava McNair never looked at her life as a sacrifice. She loves taking care of her dad and running her family's jewelry store with her special needs sister. So what if that meant dropping out of college and leaving behind a man who just might have been the one? When fate gives her and the detective who got away a second shot at love, will she step up and take it or will life tear them apart again?
With Ava in the path of a killer, will John be able to move fast enough to take down a violent man set on wreaking as much damage as he can before he goes down?
Dark Falls is the first book in the gripping new Dark Falls, CO romantic thriller series by Lori Ryan, Trish McCallan, Becca Jameson, Savannah Kade, Lisa-Marie Cabrelli, and Sandra Owens.
168 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 9, 2018
1229 people are currently reading
873 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 113 reviews
October 16, 2018
★ 1 STAR ★
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Embora eu tenha gostado do John, Ava e a maioria dos personagens secundários, infelizmente só isso não foi o suficiente se o restante deixou a desejar.
Achei o enredo fraco e sem muito desenvolvimento. O suspense e mistério foram praticamente inexistentes, faltou cuidado e elaboração nessa parte.
Os acontecimentos foram bem previsíveis e por isso encontrei muita dificuldade em realmente me envolver na trama.
Mesmo narrado em terceira pessoa, esse livro foi uma leitura bem rápida, porém sem nenhuma emoção ou algo que surpreendesse.
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Embora eu tenha gostado do John, Ava e a maioria dos personagens secundários, infelizmente só isso não foi o suficiente se o restante deixou a desejar.
Achei o enredo fraco e sem muito desenvolvimento. O suspense e mistério foram praticamente inexistentes, faltou cuidado e elaboração nessa parte.
Os acontecimentos foram bem previsíveis e por isso encontrei muita dificuldade em realmente me envolver na trama.
Mesmo narrado em terceira pessoa, esse livro foi uma leitura bem rápida, porém sem nenhuma emoção ou algo que surpreendesse.
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November 27, 2018
I love a good mystery/thriller when I can find one and I thought this one filled the bill. It was nicely laid out in the beginning when the team of the Major Crimes Unit in Dark Falls, Colorado, is introduced. Not only do we get the names of the members, but also who is partnered with whom. I liked that so I didn't have to search as I read to discover it for myself.
John seems to be the main MC in this story. He is Detective John Sevier, a divorced man who is partners with Eric Cantu. The "old timers" on the team are Gerald Osborn and Craig Patel. By older it means they're in their 40's (not my definition). And Nate Ryder is paired up with the newbie, Zaragoza who obviously is pretty smart as when he's first introduced the reader learns that he speaks four languages. Impressive!
I love that the captain of the Major Crimes Unit is a female in a man's world: Eve Scanlon. The men, especially John, seem to respect her and don't give her flack because she's female.
The crimes that these members are working on are jewelry store robberies being committed by men (presumably) who wear masks and spray paint the cameras as soon as they break in. John is especially concerned because Ava, John's ex, owns McNair's Jewelry Store. Her store is upper end and the robberies haven't been committed in her type of store (yet) because they tend to have guards; however, the robbers are getting progressively more brazen and one of the robbers has begun to beat up people during the robberies. As one can guess, he happens to be on drugs.
As the reader might predict, as John looks out for Ava, they rekindle the chemistry between them and light a fire. Their sexual tension is alluring to the reader (this one anyway). Would anyone think that Ava would listen to John and close early and basically inspect and get ID's from her customers prior to letting them enter the store? Okay, I will say she listens to some of what he tells her.
I like how the robbers have their own POV in chapters so that we get some insight into their minds and how they discuss and figure out what to/not to do. But again, there is at least one druggie in the midst of them and he (Adam) seems to like to hurt people for his own pleasure.
Recommendation: I definitely recommend this one, especially if you a good mystery!
John seems to be the main MC in this story. He is Detective John Sevier, a divorced man who is partners with Eric Cantu. The "old timers" on the team are Gerald Osborn and Craig Patel. By older it means they're in their 40's (not my definition). And Nate Ryder is paired up with the newbie, Zaragoza who obviously is pretty smart as when he's first introduced the reader learns that he speaks four languages. Impressive!
I love that the captain of the Major Crimes Unit is a female in a man's world: Eve Scanlon. The men, especially John, seem to respect her and don't give her flack because she's female.
The crimes that these members are working on are jewelry store robberies being committed by men (presumably) who wear masks and spray paint the cameras as soon as they break in. John is especially concerned because Ava, John's ex, owns McNair's Jewelry Store. Her store is upper end and the robberies haven't been committed in her type of store (yet) because they tend to have guards; however, the robbers are getting progressively more brazen and one of the robbers has begun to beat up people during the robberies. As one can guess, he happens to be on drugs.
As the reader might predict, as John looks out for Ava, they rekindle the chemistry between them and light a fire. Their sexual tension is alluring to the reader (this one anyway). Would anyone think that Ava would listen to John and close early and basically inspect and get ID's from her customers prior to letting them enter the store? Okay, I will say she listens to some of what he tells her.
I like how the robbers have their own POV in chapters so that we get some insight into their minds and how they discuss and figure out what to/not to do. But again, there is at least one druggie in the midst of them and he (Adam) seems to like to hurt people for his own pleasure.
Recommendation: I definitely recommend this one, especially if you a good mystery!
October 9, 2018
John Sevier is a police detective in Dark Falls, CO, and the Major Crimes unit he's a part of of is investigating a string of jewelry store holdups. They started out targeting smaller, lower-end shops that couldn't afford good security, grabbing what they could at closing time, and getting out. Then they start ramping up, their leader in particular becoming violent.
John starts worrying about a woman he hasn't seen since college, when she left early to take care of her father and her sister. Ava McNair joined her father in running their jewelry shop. His heart condition won't let him keep the hours he used to. Her sister Janna's autism keeps her from working with the customers, although she's a far better jeweler than Ava. So Ava is the shop manager, and the one who'll be at most risk if the increasingly violent gang starts striking shops in the business district she's in.
Meanwhile, John is also being reminded of his failure at relationships, with his ex-wife about to remarry.
There's a very good plot here, but also very good characters, and relationships among the characters. I can take all of these characters seriously, and no one is portrayed negatively because it's easier. John's ex-wife Lucia is an excellent example of this, and I won't say any more on that because it wouldn't be fair to the reader. You'll enjoy it more reading that for yourself.
This is the first book in a series each entry of which will be written by a different author. I have no idea how that's going to work out, but I'm looking forward to reading the next couple of volumes to find out.
Recommended.
I received a free electronic galley of this book, and am reviewing it voluntarily.
John starts worrying about a woman he hasn't seen since college, when she left early to take care of her father and her sister. Ava McNair joined her father in running their jewelry shop. His heart condition won't let him keep the hours he used to. Her sister Janna's autism keeps her from working with the customers, although she's a far better jeweler than Ava. So Ava is the shop manager, and the one who'll be at most risk if the increasingly violent gang starts striking shops in the business district she's in.
Meanwhile, John is also being reminded of his failure at relationships, with his ex-wife about to remarry.
There's a very good plot here, but also very good characters, and relationships among the characters. I can take all of these characters seriously, and no one is portrayed negatively because it's easier. John's ex-wife Lucia is an excellent example of this, and I won't say any more on that because it wouldn't be fair to the reader. You'll enjoy it more reading that for yourself.
This is the first book in a series each entry of which will be written by a different author. I have no idea how that's going to work out, but I'm looking forward to reading the next couple of volumes to find out.
Recommended.
I received a free electronic galley of this book, and am reviewing it voluntarily.
March 29, 2019
I had to LOL at Eric’s limericks, especially the one about John and heels. I loved the banter between John and Eric, too.
Overall, this was a very good story. About a bunch of jewelry store robberies that were all just robberies then the leader started taking some kind of drug that changed him and he smashed one man’s head into a glass display case, then he shot a cop, then he beat a man to death and shot the employee in the same store. He kept getting bad enough that he killed his friend. And, finally, broke into the jewelry store where our hero, John, was watching out for his girlfriend, Ava, whose family owned the jewelry store. Needless to say, there was a shoot-out.
There were 3 sex scenes, but they weren’t that long or descriptive, which I'm thankful for in a novella. And the F-bomb was used 19 times.
January 19, 2019
3.5. Good story. If it didn't suffer from 1st book of a series syndrome, I would round up to 4 stars. Lots of introducing characters for future books, tons of details of their looks and personalities etc.
I love this author and the series should be good. For readers that love large casts and lots of details, heavier on the police procedure/case than the romance, this will be a good read for you! 😁
I love this author and the series should be good. For readers that love large casts and lots of details, heavier on the police procedure/case than the romance, this will be a good read for you! 😁
January 21, 2020
4.25 Stars for the first book in a promising Dark Falls, CO Series. This Series centers around the Major Crimes Unit of the Dark Falls Police Department, with each book written by a different popular romantic suspense author. In this book the readers are introduced to the Unit, with Detective John Sevier taking the leading role.
John reconnections with his first love, Ava, during a spree of jewelry store robberies. Ava manages her family’s jewelry store. Ava broke John’s heart years ago, and he still has some lingering feelings for her. Besides the romance and some sexy times between Ava and John, there is some suspense and murder. It even deals with some sensitive issues.
I thought the scenes dedicated to investigational police work were well thought-out. I respected the manner in-which the author presented Janna’s Autism Spectrum Disorder. (Janna is Ava’s sister.) The book also addresses the struggles surrounding infertility, both emotionality and financially.
Overall I liked this story and plan to continue this Series.
John reconnections with his first love, Ava, during a spree of jewelry store robberies. Ava manages her family’s jewelry store. Ava broke John’s heart years ago, and he still has some lingering feelings for her. Besides the romance and some sexy times between Ava and John, there is some suspense and murder. It even deals with some sensitive issues.
I thought the scenes dedicated to investigational police work were well thought-out. I respected the manner in-which the author presented Janna’s Autism Spectrum Disorder. (Janna is Ava’s sister.) The book also addresses the struggles surrounding infertility, both emotionality and financially.
Overall I liked this story and plan to continue this Series.
October 6, 2019
Loved
Loved this wonderful second chance romance. It's a nice blend of action, suspense and romance that kept me entertained from the first page straight to the last. Definitely a Book I recommend.
Loved this wonderful second chance romance. It's a nice blend of action, suspense and romance that kept me entertained from the first page straight to the last. Definitely a Book I recommend.
February 6, 2019
Detective John Sevier is a cop who loves his work. Loves protecting and serving. When he starts investigating a group of robberies at low end jewelry stores he is thrown back into contact with a lost love. Ava McNair.
Ava McNair runs her families jewelry store, works with her mildly autistic sister, care for her ailing father. When Det. Sevier shows up old feeling return. Especially the way he connects with her sister. Especially how he makes her feel when he is around.
They build back a lost connection for one another but when the gang of robbers start escalating in both upper scale shops and violence there will be more at stake than a budding romance.
I like this 1st book and an introduction to the series I gave it 3.5-4, since it was closer to a really liked to an its ok I gave 4 stars. I am very interested in seeing where this series goes. As a lover of these suspense type romances I am hooked for book #2.
Ava McNair runs her families jewelry store, works with her mildly autistic sister, care for her ailing father. When Det. Sevier shows up old feeling return. Especially the way he connects with her sister. Especially how he makes her feel when he is around.
They build back a lost connection for one another but when the gang of robbers start escalating in both upper scale shops and violence there will be more at stake than a budding romance.
I like this 1st book and an introduction to the series I gave it 3.5-4, since it was closer to a really liked to an its ok I gave 4 stars. I am very interested in seeing where this series goes. As a lover of these suspense type romances I am hooked for book #2.
November 4, 2018
This book introduces the players, the team of the Major Crimes Division in Dark Falls. John Sevier is the first one we center on, divorced and not really thinking of a relationship since long hours and late night calls aren't conducive to such things.
With multiple jewelry stores being hit, John's thoughts go to the woman he once loved, the woman who left. Her family owns a jewelry store and although it is far more upscale than those being hit, he's concerned.
Ava left school when her father became ill, working the jewelry store while finishing her degree online. The store is a true family business, with most of the designs created by her sister Janna and others commissioned from local artisans.
John visits after a clerk is injured during a robbery, to be sure Ava's security systems were all working properly and ascertain she had a guard during working hours.
To say that John and the rest of his team were frustrated is an understatement. The eyewitnesses couldn't give any kind of a description because the perpetrators were totally covered up in nondescript clothing, and ski masks. We on the other had get to see the bad guys and some of their plans, and see the aftermath of the escalation in the robberies.
John keeps in touch with Ava as things escalate and the chemistry between them is powerful. There is a slow build to this relationship as John not only gets to know Ava again, but also learns to interact with Janna.
Hold your breath suspense and action, romance that gets hotter with every encounter and so much more!
I will definitely be reading all the books in this new series!
With multiple jewelry stores being hit, John's thoughts go to the woman he once loved, the woman who left. Her family owns a jewelry store and although it is far more upscale than those being hit, he's concerned.
Ava left school when her father became ill, working the jewelry store while finishing her degree online. The store is a true family business, with most of the designs created by her sister Janna and others commissioned from local artisans.
John visits after a clerk is injured during a robbery, to be sure Ava's security systems were all working properly and ascertain she had a guard during working hours.
To say that John and the rest of his team were frustrated is an understatement. The eyewitnesses couldn't give any kind of a description because the perpetrators were totally covered up in nondescript clothing, and ski masks. We on the other had get to see the bad guys and some of their plans, and see the aftermath of the escalation in the robberies.
John keeps in touch with Ava as things escalate and the chemistry between them is powerful. There is a slow build to this relationship as John not only gets to know Ava again, but also learns to interact with Janna.
Hold your breath suspense and action, romance that gets hotter with every encounter and so much more!
I will definitely be reading all the books in this new series!
December 8, 2018
Really interesting and engrossing first book in a multiple-authored series set in Dark Falls, CO
So, I actually read a book a later book in this series before I had the chance to read Lori Ryan's initial contribution with this book. It's a great introductory book with a host of detailed information about the detectives and superiors in the Dark Falls, CO, Major Crimes Unit. Lori does a great job fleshing out these characters and supporting roles, as really grabs you with a robbery storyline and Detective John Sevier, who you can't help but root for and fall in love with a little bit as the storyline and backstories are revealed. Ava McNair is the owner of an upscale jewelry store and a former college girlfriend of John's. Even after being married to a wonderul woman and a heartbreaking divorce, John cannot stop the feelings that arise whenever he's near Ava, who he's had no contact with for nearly a decade. Their relationship moves fairly quickly, but their interactions and conversations really pull at your heart and mind. They both have their issues and things in their lives that pull at them, yet, even in the midst of a string of robberies that are slowly becoming deadly, Ava and John find peace in each other. Great book and cannot wait to read the next in this series!!
So, I actually read a book a later book in this series before I had the chance to read Lori Ryan's initial contribution with this book. It's a great introductory book with a host of detailed information about the detectives and superiors in the Dark Falls, CO, Major Crimes Unit. Lori does a great job fleshing out these characters and supporting roles, as really grabs you with a robbery storyline and Detective John Sevier, who you can't help but root for and fall in love with a little bit as the storyline and backstories are revealed. Ava McNair is the owner of an upscale jewelry store and a former college girlfriend of John's. Even after being married to a wonderul woman and a heartbreaking divorce, John cannot stop the feelings that arise whenever he's near Ava, who he's had no contact with for nearly a decade. Their relationship moves fairly quickly, but their interactions and conversations really pull at your heart and mind. They both have their issues and things in their lives that pull at them, yet, even in the midst of a string of robberies that are slowly becoming deadly, Ava and John find peace in each other. Great book and cannot wait to read the next in this series!!
December 26, 2018
Loved this romantic suspense by Lori Ryan! Although it's novella length, it's not missing anything. Perfect for getting your feel-good-book-fix when you don't have time to dive into something longer! Second chance romance mixed with some police investigation and suspense and quality writing. I will definitely be reading more of this series and more Lori Ryan!
April 30, 2021
Book 1:
5 stars
I purchased a copy of the Dark Falls in the Dark Falls, Colorado Box Set 1-5 Dark Falls, CO Romantic Thrillers: John and Ava by Lori Ryan et al and this review was given freely.
A good introduction to the close-knit members of Dark Falls' Major Crime Division blended with a quickly escalating second chance at love romance, and a series of robberies with increasing violence..
Police Force Detective John Sevier finds himself reunited with his college girl friend, now jewelry store owner Ava McNair, only to have his second chance at love and family threatened when Ava and her sister are attacked.
18+ recommended for some graphic violence
Book 2:
4 stars
I purchased a copy of the Dark Secrets in the Dark Falls Box Set 1-5 Dark Falls, CO Romantic Thrillers: Nate and Grace by Savannah Kade et al and this review was given freely.
A suspenseful and action packed murder mystery with an instant attraction, some twists and a happy ending.
Just shy of his five year sobriety date, Georgia Bureau of Investigation's nationally recognized forensic scientists, Grace Lee, travels to Dark Falls, Colorado to investigate her younger brother Jimmy's death by suspected overdose only to find the body gone, the paperwork incomplete, herself attracted to the Dark Falls case detective Nate Ryder, a target for drug dealer Greg Slater and a case of police corruption.
Book 3:
4 stars
I purchased a copy of the Dark Legacy in the Dark Falls Box Set 1-5 Dark Falls, CO Romantic Thrillers: Rhys and by Trish McCallan et al and this review was given freely.
A twisted story of revenge and serial killing blended with a second chance at love for Detective Rhys Evans and his teenage girl friend Ariel Hamilton. contains a strong attraction but only hints of steamy scenes.
Fourteen years after Rhys' twin is killed and three years after her father dies in prison, Ariel Hamilton receives a call from the X-factor killer proclaiming her father's innocence and luring both her and her sister, FBI agent Ashley, back to Darks Falls, Colorado.
18+ recommended for violent content.
Book 4:
4 stars
I purchased a copy of steamy/ BDSM the Dark Nightmares in the Dark Falls Box Set 1-5 Dark Falls, CO Romantic Thrillers by Becca Jameson et al and this review was given freely.
Instant attraction and irony with an introduction to BDSM, a touch of violence, and a quickly escalating romance with a steamy ending.
Eighteen years after a kidnapping and murder, nightmare suffering and dog fearing Detective Nicole Salway is ordered back to Dark Falls, Colorado to partner with BDSM dabbler and dog owning Dark Falls police detective Mason England to capture Governor Kenneth Thompson's college age daughter's murder.
Book 5:
4 stars
I purchased a copy of the Dark Terror in the Dark Falls Box Set 1-5 Dark Falls, CO Romantic Thrillers by Sara Owens et al and this review was given freely.
A story of finding love after loss combined with the suspense of a murder/stalker and the unfiltered close relationships of the Dark Falls police detectives. Contains the dark themes of murder, mental illness and suicide.
Leery of both love and her strong attraction to Detective Gabe Calder, after her police officer brother David is killed in the line of duty, murder witness and junior librarian Cara Jenner plus her newly acquired dog Cricket must rely on Gabe's protection.
5 stars
I purchased a copy of the Dark Falls in the Dark Falls, Colorado Box Set 1-5 Dark Falls, CO Romantic Thrillers: John and Ava by Lori Ryan et al and this review was given freely.
A good introduction to the close-knit members of Dark Falls' Major Crime Division blended with a quickly escalating second chance at love romance, and a series of robberies with increasing violence..
Police Force Detective John Sevier finds himself reunited with his college girl friend, now jewelry store owner Ava McNair, only to have his second chance at love and family threatened when Ava and her sister are attacked.
18+ recommended for some graphic violence
Book 2:
4 stars
I purchased a copy of the Dark Secrets in the Dark Falls Box Set 1-5 Dark Falls, CO Romantic Thrillers: Nate and Grace by Savannah Kade et al and this review was given freely.
A suspenseful and action packed murder mystery with an instant attraction, some twists and a happy ending.
Just shy of his five year sobriety date, Georgia Bureau of Investigation's nationally recognized forensic scientists, Grace Lee, travels to Dark Falls, Colorado to investigate her younger brother Jimmy's death by suspected overdose only to find the body gone, the paperwork incomplete, herself attracted to the Dark Falls case detective Nate Ryder, a target for drug dealer Greg Slater and a case of police corruption.
Book 3:
4 stars
I purchased a copy of the Dark Legacy in the Dark Falls Box Set 1-5 Dark Falls, CO Romantic Thrillers: Rhys and by Trish McCallan et al and this review was given freely.
A twisted story of revenge and serial killing blended with a second chance at love for Detective Rhys Evans and his teenage girl friend Ariel Hamilton. contains a strong attraction but only hints of steamy scenes.
Fourteen years after Rhys' twin is killed and three years after her father dies in prison, Ariel Hamilton receives a call from the X-factor killer proclaiming her father's innocence and luring both her and her sister, FBI agent Ashley, back to Darks Falls, Colorado.
18+ recommended for violent content.
Book 4:
4 stars
I purchased a copy of steamy/ BDSM the Dark Nightmares in the Dark Falls Box Set 1-5 Dark Falls, CO Romantic Thrillers by Becca Jameson et al and this review was given freely.
Instant attraction and irony with an introduction to BDSM, a touch of violence, and a quickly escalating romance with a steamy ending.
Eighteen years after a kidnapping and murder, nightmare suffering and dog fearing Detective Nicole Salway is ordered back to Dark Falls, Colorado to partner with BDSM dabbler and dog owning Dark Falls police detective Mason England to capture Governor Kenneth Thompson's college age daughter's murder.
Book 5:
4 stars
I purchased a copy of the Dark Terror in the Dark Falls Box Set 1-5 Dark Falls, CO Romantic Thrillers by Sara Owens et al and this review was given freely.
A story of finding love after loss combined with the suspense of a murder/stalker and the unfiltered close relationships of the Dark Falls police detectives. Contains the dark themes of murder, mental illness and suicide.
Leery of both love and her strong attraction to Detective Gabe Calder, after her police officer brother David is killed in the line of duty, murder witness and junior librarian Cara Jenner plus her newly acquired dog Cricket must rely on Gabe's protection.
October 10, 2018
Lori Ryan is new to me author, and I found that she is talented in her writing style, and I enjoyed Dark Falls a lot. The story centers around John Sevier, a detective, and Ava McNair, who owns a jewelry store. They were in love in college, until she broke up with him due to fear, and family issues that needed her at home. Now years later, he comes face to face with her when a string of jewelry store robberies puts her in danger, so he's there to protect her. They never got over each other, but he's jaded as he is out of a marriage that scarred him, though he's still friends with his ex-wife. He offers her a friends with benefits thing, thinking that he can't be the man that she deserves, and Ava takes him up on it, as she's still helping her dad with her special needs sister. So their chemistry is providing sexy times that lit the sheets on fire. However, fate brought them together, and won't be denied, so it doesn't take long before those old feelings of love are coming up again. In the midst of catching feelings again, there's that whole danger aspect, as victims of the robberies are actually getting hurt, so he's doing everything he can to keep her safe. And this is where the twists come in which had me dropping f-bombs. My big issue was an ending that seemed a bit too rushed, and this is MY opinion which kept me from giving this story a perfect rating. I will be reading more by Ms. Ryan in the future, and am excited to read more in this series. HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
October 10, 2018
I’m hooked. From nearly the first words on the page I was pulled into this world. The story grabbed a hold of my imagination and refused to let go. This book pulls together several of my favorite themes: second chance romance, suspense/thriller, and police procedural. And knowing I get to do most of it all over again with the rest of the books in the series is just icing on the cake. John is brilliant as the tragic hero. With a failed marriage he believes was all his fault already under his belt, he’s understandably reluctant to get involved with anyone in a meaningful way. Ava loves her independence. It means she has all the time she needs to run the family business while looking after her father and sister. When the latest case John’s assigned to work on intersects with Ava’s business, the pair might be forced to re-evaluate their priorities. I loved how down-to-earth this story is with all the snarky pot-shots at how easily cases are solved on TV. I also really enjoyed the camaraderie, the sense of family, within the detectives of the Dark Falls Major Crimes Unit. I’m already looking forward to getting my hands on the rest of the series.
October 17, 2018
John Sevier and Ava McNair were an item while in college together. But when Ava's father has a heart attack and he needed help at home with the family jewelry store and her special needs sister, she drops out of college and heads home to Dark Falls and never tells John why. John finishes school returns to Dark Falls and gets married and divorced, but he did fulfill his dream job as a detective in the major crimes unit. He knew Ava was in town too, but they haven't really crossed paths. A series of heavily disguised robbers start robbing jewelry stores and at first their robberies were non-violent. But that began to change and the next couple of robberies were violent so John felt it was his obligation to warn Ava to be aware and safe. So a nervous John goes to Ava and much as they both fight it, there appears to be a reconnection. Will John and his partner and the major crime unit capture the robbers before they get to Ava's store? Will John and Ava get back together or will each of their own personal demons keep them apart? I LOVED this book! I just couldn't put it down when I began it. I received and ARC from the author but the opinions expressed here are strictly my own.
October 21, 2018
This first book leaves me with high hopes for the stories to follow in this multi-author series. If you like to blend excitement with romance, then this book is for you. Ms. Ryan is very successful in giving us a good balance of the two without one overshadowing the other.
Welcome to Dark Falls, where law enforcement is trying to solve multiple jewelry store robberies that appear to be done by the same people. Detective John Sevier is a part of this investigation and is concerned about Ava McNair, a former college girlfriend who owns a jewelry store in town. Worry about her safety prompts him to visit the shop. Old sparks reignite as he spends time there in an effort to maintain the shop’s safety. I’ll save the rest so as not to spoil the story for you.
Featured characters in the story are well developed. I enjoyed the friendships between the officers, family relationships, and the blossoming romance. The investigation follows a believable timeline and does not feel rushed. As a person who reads few thrillers, I found this one exciting without being gruesome - a combination that kept me turning the pages.
Welcome to Dark Falls, where law enforcement is trying to solve multiple jewelry store robberies that appear to be done by the same people. Detective John Sevier is a part of this investigation and is concerned about Ava McNair, a former college girlfriend who owns a jewelry store in town. Worry about her safety prompts him to visit the shop. Old sparks reignite as he spends time there in an effort to maintain the shop’s safety. I’ll save the rest so as not to spoil the story for you.
Featured characters in the story are well developed. I enjoyed the friendships between the officers, family relationships, and the blossoming romance. The investigation follows a believable timeline and does not feel rushed. As a person who reads few thrillers, I found this one exciting without being gruesome - a combination that kept me turning the pages.
October 6, 2018
This book is a great start to a suspense filled romance series.
Ava McNair and John Sevier were sweethearts in college until Ava left and later John got married to someone else.
Her reasons for leaving were centered around her family and her father’s jewelry business. When jewelry stores are being burglarized in Dark Falls, John , now a detective and divorced, worries about Ava and pays her a visit. The chemistry is still there but both have personal baggage. Will they keep it casual or will feelings get involved?
Aside from the romance, the suspense keeps you on your toes. We also get a chance to meet the various individuals in the Dark Falls police force. A group of characters that will surely entertain us in future stories.
All in all , a well written , and engaging plot with complex characters. I especially appreciated that the author gives us a very strong female character.
Looking forward to more stories in the series.
I was entrusted a copy of this book. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
Ava McNair and John Sevier were sweethearts in college until Ava left and later John got married to someone else.
Her reasons for leaving were centered around her family and her father’s jewelry business. When jewelry stores are being burglarized in Dark Falls, John , now a detective and divorced, worries about Ava and pays her a visit. The chemistry is still there but both have personal baggage. Will they keep it casual or will feelings get involved?
Aside from the romance, the suspense keeps you on your toes. We also get a chance to meet the various individuals in the Dark Falls police force. A group of characters that will surely entertain us in future stories.
All in all , a well written , and engaging plot with complex characters. I especially appreciated that the author gives us a very strong female character.
Looking forward to more stories in the series.
I was entrusted a copy of this book. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
October 21, 2018
Dark Falls
This is an amazing beginning to this multi author series of romantic suspenseful books with John a detective at Major Crimes at Dark Falls reconnecting with the first love of his life from college Ava who owns a jewelry story. There was a string of robberies of jewelry stores that were esculating in violence and John had to warn her and make her more vigilant at her store in case they decided to rob her store. This is where their exciting love story begins as he spends more and more time with her. An unrelated incident side lines him from work so that he can protect her and her sister Jenna by spending more time at their store with them. It is amazing how he figures out who the robbers are by going to a funeral with Ava and seeing mourners that fit the perks descriptions. It comes to an exciting conclusion as John protects Ava from the violent criminal. It is so romantic as John and Ava fall back in love and get their happily ever after. I cannot wait to read the next book in this unique series as this first book was fantastic.
This is an amazing beginning to this multi author series of romantic suspenseful books with John a detective at Major Crimes at Dark Falls reconnecting with the first love of his life from college Ava who owns a jewelry story. There was a string of robberies of jewelry stores that were esculating in violence and John had to warn her and make her more vigilant at her store in case they decided to rob her store. This is where their exciting love story begins as he spends more and more time with her. An unrelated incident side lines him from work so that he can protect her and her sister Jenna by spending more time at their store with them. It is amazing how he figures out who the robbers are by going to a funeral with Ava and seeing mourners that fit the perks descriptions. It comes to an exciting conclusion as John protects Ava from the violent criminal. It is so romantic as John and Ava fall back in love and get their happily ever after. I cannot wait to read the next book in this unique series as this first book was fantastic.
July 13, 2019
Detective John Sevier and his partner Eric Cantu from the Dark Falls Major Crimes Division, are after four suspects who have been robbing smaller jewelry stores that have very little security. Up until this latest robbery, there have been no injuries, but now one of the suspects has injured one of the employees. John warns Ava McNair, whose family owns a jewelry store and is his first love from college, that the robberies are moving across the city. He is worried that the suspects may begin targeting higher end stores like hers. Seeing Ava again has made him realize that he still has feelings for her, but is it too late for them? In this first Dark Falls novel, we meet many of the characters that will be involved in the remainder of the series. I really enjoy stories that have continuing characters and completely enjoyed this first visit to Dark Falls. This was a great introduction to the series by Ms. Ryan and I look forward to reading the remainder of the series. I purchased and voluntarily reviewed this book. (by paytonpuppy)
March 14, 2021
This is a lovely story by Lori Ryan. Detective John Sevier of the Dark Falls Police Department works with a close knot team in the major crime squad. John was amicably divorced from ex wife Lucia, when the wanted a family and it didn't happen they drifted apart but stayed friends.
Dark Falls was being hit by a spate of robberies on small edge of town jewellery shops, although the small snips of CCTV showed that there were four people involved there were no other clues, the thieves were clever but why were they only hitting on small shops and would it escalate ?
John thought about his first love who he had never forgotten, Ava McNair ran a high class jewellery store in the centre of Dark Falls aided by her autistic sister who worked in the back of the store.
John became worried about Ava even though she had a guard on the door, when he visited to check on her it was obvious the chemistry was still there but neither of them wanted a commitment each for their own reasons.
As the robberies escalate and become violent John and Ava get closer.
A lovely enjoyable story
Dark Falls was being hit by a spate of robberies on small edge of town jewellery shops, although the small snips of CCTV showed that there were four people involved there were no other clues, the thieves were clever but why were they only hitting on small shops and would it escalate ?
John thought about his first love who he had never forgotten, Ava McNair ran a high class jewellery store in the centre of Dark Falls aided by her autistic sister who worked in the back of the store.
John became worried about Ava even though she had a guard on the door, when he visited to check on her it was obvious the chemistry was still there but neither of them wanted a commitment each for their own reasons.
As the robberies escalate and become violent John and Ava get closer.
A lovely enjoyable story
October 15, 2018
Dark Falls
This is the opener for a multiauthor series that focuses on the Major Crimes Unit of Dark Falls, CO, though location really doesn't play into the storyline. It could be anywhere. Detective John Sevier is working along side his unit to solve an outbreak of smaller jewelry store robberies. He can't help but think of his ex girlfriend from college who works in her family's jewelry store at a mall. So when the robbers escalate, beating an employee of the last store they've targeted, he stops by to warn Ava.
Ava McNair regrets the day she broke up with John Sevier years ago in college. She has never forgotten him, and when he appears at her father's jewelry store to warn them about the escalating robber foursome, she is afraid to hope for more than renewing acquaintances and becoming friends. But John has gone into protective mode, staying near when he can, not realizing the robbers already have Ava on their list of potentials.
This is the opener for a multiauthor series that focuses on the Major Crimes Unit of Dark Falls, CO, though location really doesn't play into the storyline. It could be anywhere. Detective John Sevier is working along side his unit to solve an outbreak of smaller jewelry store robberies. He can't help but think of his ex girlfriend from college who works in her family's jewelry store at a mall. So when the robbers escalate, beating an employee of the last store they've targeted, he stops by to warn Ava.
Ava McNair regrets the day she broke up with John Sevier years ago in college. She has never forgotten him, and when he appears at her father's jewelry store to warn them about the escalating robber foursome, she is afraid to hope for more than renewing acquaintances and becoming friends. But John has gone into protective mode, staying near when he can, not realizing the robbers already have Ava on their list of potentials.
November 16, 2020
I liked this novella, it was very well written and an interesting romance/suspense story, but I found myself zoning out occasionally. It was heavy on the plot and lighter on the romance, which was fine. It was obviously a first in a series, as there were so many side characters (detectives). What got me a tad annoyed and drew me out of the main story a lot, were the descriptions etc of all these characters - no doubt the author was setting them up for their own books, which are written by an ensemble cast of authors - descriptions I'll forget by the end of the book. Lol. Not my favourite thing for an author to do, but some readers may like it more than I do. There were a couple of chapters from the POV of the thieves. The romance was nicely written and is second chance trope, but it did feel like insta-love as they hadn't seen each other for years. I'll be reading more from this author. 3.5 stars.
September 2, 2021
When the frequency and violence of a string of robberies increase, Detective John Sevier’s reminded his college girlfriend, Ava McNair, a jewelry store owner could be a target. It’s been years but Ava still regrets their break-up though she’s kept an eye on John’s life in their small town. Seeing each other again, initially because of the case puts the pair on a path to renew their close romantic friendship. As the burglaries continue, the criminals seem to change making jewelry store owners like Ava and her autistic sister anxious in their stores.
I liked but didn’t love this series foundation tale from a new to me author which included but didn’t center on romance or suspense (kudos for using both special needs and ‘settled’ adults with life challenges). Technically, all the aspects were correctly checked but this reader didn’t get a sense of urgency from the read or a strong pull to any of the many characters.
Rating: 3.5stars
I liked but didn’t love this series foundation tale from a new to me author which included but didn’t center on romance or suspense (kudos for using both special needs and ‘settled’ adults with life challenges). Technically, all the aspects were correctly checked but this reader didn’t get a sense of urgency from the read or a strong pull to any of the many characters.
Rating: 3.5stars
October 7, 2018
Dark Falls, is Book one in this new
exciting, romantic thriller series.
I really enjoyed reading it. It has a bit
of a dark edge to it. The story keeps
you intrigued from the very first pages
to the last.
The detectives of Dark Falls Major Crimes, have caught a case of jewelry stores being robbed in lower end neighborhoods.
They're all working to find any clues,
to identity the robbers.
John is one of the detective. He thinks
of his former college girlfriend, Ava,
who owns a high end jewelry store.
He divorced now, what would it hurt
to see Ava. Just to make sure she is
more aware & cautious.
Seeing each other again, sparks John
& Ava's attraction to one another.
They're both not looking for a relationship.
Great characters, suspense & romance
make it the perfect read.
It's A Page-Turner!!!
exciting, romantic thriller series.
I really enjoyed reading it. It has a bit
of a dark edge to it. The story keeps
you intrigued from the very first pages
to the last.
The detectives of Dark Falls Major Crimes, have caught a case of jewelry stores being robbed in lower end neighborhoods.
They're all working to find any clues,
to identity the robbers.
John is one of the detective. He thinks
of his former college girlfriend, Ava,
who owns a high end jewelry store.
He divorced now, what would it hurt
to see Ava. Just to make sure she is
more aware & cautious.
Seeing each other again, sparks John
& Ava's attraction to one another.
They're both not looking for a relationship.
Great characters, suspense & romance
make it the perfect read.
It's A Page-Turner!!!
October 20, 2018
Another new series by multiple authors and this is the first book! I absolutely loved it. The series seems to be based on all the detectives out of Major Crimes section of Dark Falls CO and it's going to be fun. In Lori's book that starts off the series, Detective John Sevier has been working on a spate of robberies revolving around jewelry stores. He's worried about his friend and jewelry store owner Ava McNair.
Ava knows that John was the one who got away in college due to her own insecurities. However he's back in her life now as a friend and she's happy to make it friends with benefits because in her current situation she doesn't have time for a relationship. She's looking after her father and sister and the family business. There's no way a guy is willing to stand back behind all of that.
Ava knows that John was the one who got away in college due to her own insecurities. However he's back in her life now as a friend and she's happy to make it friends with benefits because in her current situation she doesn't have time for a relationship. She's looking after her father and sister and the family business. There's no way a guy is willing to stand back behind all of that.
October 7, 2018
Dark Falls by Lori Ryan is the first story in a series written by different authors. This excellent start has me intrigued about the rest of the series. From the introduction to John Sevier to the end, this book grabbed my attention. John & Eric seemed to be the perfect pairing for partners in the force. Ava and John dated in college & broke up but he hasn’t been able to forget her. Now, a string of burglaries gives him an excuse to contact her. The chemistry is still there.
The suspense in this story grabs your attention from the first. The interactions between John & Eric perfectly describe the sense of family & friendship that develop between partners. I loved the way John was able to connect to Janna, Ava’s autistic sister, when others couldn’t. This was a great romantic suspense!
The suspense in this story grabs your attention from the first. The interactions between John & Eric perfectly describe the sense of family & friendship that develop between partners. I loved the way John was able to connect to Janna, Ava’s autistic sister, when others couldn’t. This was a great romantic suspense!
October 9, 2018
ONE THRILLING RIDE!!!
Man, talk about hitting the ground running. Wow! This is one action packed, hard hitting, heart pounding, nerve racking, pulse racing, spine tingling, page turning tale that captivates from the start and holds your attention until the last word. All the twists and turns, ups and downs, along with a few glitches here and there make for one nailbiting experience. This duo really knows how to spin a tale and build the suspense and danger throughout as tension spirals. The characters and their personalities are so realistic and believable it feels like you can just reach out and touch them. The scenes are descriptive and detailed it really pulls this bad boy itogether beautifully. Fantastic job guys, thanks for sharing this awesome read with us.
Man, talk about hitting the ground running. Wow! This is one action packed, hard hitting, heart pounding, nerve racking, pulse racing, spine tingling, page turning tale that captivates from the start and holds your attention until the last word. All the twists and turns, ups and downs, along with a few glitches here and there make for one nailbiting experience. This duo really knows how to spin a tale and build the suspense and danger throughout as tension spirals. The characters and their personalities are so realistic and believable it feels like you can just reach out and touch them. The scenes are descriptive and detailed it really pulls this bad boy itogether beautifully. Fantastic job guys, thanks for sharing this awesome read with us.
October 17, 2018
Romance And Suspense
I always find books that feature mature couples very refreshing and this one is in that category.
Detective John and Ava have a history from college and when they meet up again after many years there is still a spark. He is investigating jewelry store robberies and Ava’s business is a jewelry store.
There is plenty of suspense and steam between the main character to keep you fully engrossed until the end. The supporting character especially Ava’s autistic sister added to this unique storyline. Lori Ryan conveys a real feeling of family, friendship and community in this book.
Pick up this first in a series by multiple authors for a second chance romance with a warm welcome to Dark Falls.
I always find books that feature mature couples very refreshing and this one is in that category.
Detective John and Ava have a history from college and when they meet up again after many years there is still a spark. He is investigating jewelry store robberies and Ava’s business is a jewelry store.
There is plenty of suspense and steam between the main character to keep you fully engrossed until the end. The supporting character especially Ava’s autistic sister added to this unique storyline. Lori Ryan conveys a real feeling of family, friendship and community in this book.
Pick up this first in a series by multiple authors for a second chance romance with a warm welcome to Dark Falls.
February 2, 2021
Dark Falls
Dark Falls is a second chance Romance with with interesting storyline and characters. John the male lead is an alpha, a police detective and is still in love with his old college sweetheart. Ava Is the leading lady she is feisty, beautiful and goes after what she wants. John and Ava have amazing chemistry but they both have major responsibilities in their every day lives. They are both looking for a friends with benefits relationship but will realize that their feelings for eachother run deeper.
John is investigating robberies to Jewerly stores and Ava owns a jewerly store. John will pull out all the stops to help keep Ava safe but will it be enough.
I highly recommend reading Dark Falls book 1 in Dark Falls CO Romantic Thriller Series. Happy Reading!!
Dark Falls is a second chance Romance with with interesting storyline and characters. John the male lead is an alpha, a police detective and is still in love with his old college sweetheart. Ava Is the leading lady she is feisty, beautiful and goes after what she wants. John and Ava have amazing chemistry but they both have major responsibilities in their every day lives. They are both looking for a friends with benefits relationship but will realize that their feelings for eachother run deeper.
John is investigating robberies to Jewerly stores and Ava owns a jewerly store. John will pull out all the stops to help keep Ava safe but will it be enough.
I highly recommend reading Dark Falls book 1 in Dark Falls CO Romantic Thriller Series. Happy Reading!!
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