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Malware: n. software specifically designed to disrupt, damage, or gain unauthorized access to a system.

What did Riley Quinn build?
It’s an urban legend.
A cyber myth.
A secret.

On the eve of graduation from Sharp University of Technology, her team of hackers celebrate the fruits of four years’ labors. Tomorrow they gift their invention to the world. Tensions are high and the lines of friendship will get crossed on their last night together. But awkward moments and unresolved sexual tension will be the least of their morning-after worries.
Because Project: Devil’s Playground is more than it seems.
It’s a weapon.
A threat.
A ticking time bomb.

What did Riley Quinn build?
Everyone’s about to find out.
Tick...
Tick...
Boom.

“Your point?” She covered her eyes so they didn’t try to roll completely out of her head.

“I’m saying this competition has a reputation to maintain, Riley.”

“No worries, Eddison. The Devil's Playground is going to blow the doors off the place.” She smirked. “Metaphorically speaking. Installation of explosives would be a severe violation of the weaponization prohibition clause.”

“You will not be competing.”

“Yeah, so you keep saying. Small issue.” She spread her hands. “You have zero authority to withdraw us from the contest.”


The Idle Hands Series are New Adult Hacker Romances with both non-straight and straight pairings. These books may contain: Bisexual characters, gay characters, out characters, closeted & struggling characters, first time characters and a demi-sexual character who’s still thinking about things – oh, and straight ones, too! Nerd romance, geek romance and cosplay romance fans welcome!

56 pages, Kindle Edition

First published May 17, 2019

18 people are currently reading
18 people want to read

About the author

Sara Rayne

9 books136 followers
Born and bred in the rust belt of Ohio, Sara spent most of her time lost in stories, Tumblr and fandom. When she’s not writing, over-working her coffeepot or serving as her cat’s emotional support animal, she’s watching Netflix like the rest of us.

‘Happily ever after’ is surrounding yourself with the ones who get you.

Sara Rayne is the author of the Amazon exclusive Idle Hands Series, as well as author of books #5 (Hellbent) and #8 (Hell or High Water) in the Amazon bestselling Four Horsemen MC series.

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5 stars
36 (66%)
4 stars
14 (25%)
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4 (7%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
487 reviews
April 22, 2019
Several years ago a couple of sisters caught my attention with their Four Horsemen Series. Oh my word, read the first book and the rest of the series took up residence on my Nook. Needless to say, I’m a huge fan and read everything they write. Luckily for me I haven’t had a dud in the bunch. Malware is Sara Rayne’s brainchild and she’s definitely delivered an amazing story. Take a group of brilliant computer geeks, throw in lots of sexual tension and tons of intrigue and you’ve got a quick, exciting and “hate to see it end” book! Ms. Rayne keeps us on our toes with lots of twists and turns and gives us characters worth worth investing our time and a villain that you can’t help despising...she even throw in Four Horsemen references...definitely got my attention. Thanks for the fabulous story, Ms. Rayne, looking forward to Jailbreak.
Profile Image for Mari  Cardenas.
2,298 reviews26 followers
May 17, 2019
4.5 Stars!

MalWare is the prequel to the Idle Hands series and what a fabulous start of it it is! I was hooked from the first chapter when Riley and then her archnemesis Eddison Sharp were introduced. Even more so when I got to meet the rest of Riley's team.

The book is told from multiple POVs, Riley, Colt, Faith, Will *sobs*, Alex and Fox, and while I'm not usually fond of that many perspectives in the stories I read, it worked well here, since it made it easier to get a small glimpse into each of them and what makes them tick, and I'm looking forward to the next books in the series so I can get to know them more in depth.

As it is, my favorites were Riley and Colt. Riley is just such a force to be reckoned with and frankly, I'm looking forward to her and the team systematically destroying Sharp. I don't even care if it takes a long time, just make him suffer. LOL

Overall, this is definitely a must-read. Ms. Rayne managed a very good balance between all the work the team does—making it interesting without making it too difficult to understand—and an action-packed, character-driven plot I couldn't get enough of. Very recommendable!

*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
Profile Image for Joanne Mccorkell.
1,649 reviews15 followers
April 25, 2019
I received an ARC for Malware

I loved this book. I loved the interaction between all the characters. Im not a computer type at all. But despite that, I was never left feeling utterly stoopid either.
My favourite character is definately Colt, cant wait to get to know him better.
Though Riley is badass, I claim her as my new BFF...... I definately wanna stay on her goodside, (she would probably wipe me from existance otherwise)
In fact all the ladies are strong personalities cant wait for each to have their own books.
Brilliant start to a new/ongoing series.
2 reviews1 follower
April 26, 2019
Omg! I'm a big fan of the four horsemen mc, and as always Sara Rayne did an amazing job with malware, I love how it included all the characters in it and that I get to read more about them all in the future! Riley is my hero! And omg Alex and Colt... I don't even know where to begin. Lol I can't wait to read Jailbreak and see how Fox and Coyote get along! Happy reading everyone!
Profile Image for Amanda Evans.
10 reviews28 followers
April 23, 2019
I recieved an ARC for an honest review and I can honestly say I am so excited for this series. This book is all the great things I love about Sara Rayne. She has set a tone for an amazing series with interesting characters and a compelling story. Malware is the perfect start for the Idle Hands. In this book you will get a deeper look into people we have already met like Fox and new people who are bound for a wild and emotional ride. I am so ready for this. Well done Lady.
Profile Image for Kathy.
4 reviews
May 17, 2019
*Honest review provided in exchange for ARC*

Excellent start in the Idle Hands series.

As a fan of the Four Horsemen MC, I have been eagerly awaiting this new series by Sara and she did not disappoint.

Just enough action and intrigue to keep me salivating for the next book! Well done and can’t wait to read everyone else’s story (especially Colt and Alex)
Profile Image for Ann L.
4,848 reviews39 followers
May 13, 2019
From one if the creators of The Four Horseman MC series comes this, the start of a new and what looks to be an exciting series. It is all about the net and hackers, the ones that helped Lex and Voodoo in the last Horseman book and of course Coyote, is mentioned, for those who don't know him, he's one of the Horseman and is the computer geek. If you've not read the series, I would it's good.

Ok that's enough reminiscing, as this isn't about them, as I've said it's about the hackers, and the introduction of the characters, it has twists and turns and laughs and I loved it , it's a quick read and can't wait to read more.

I received a copy and I am voluntarily leaving my own honest opinion
7 reviews1 follower
May 3, 2019
I recieved a an Advanced Review Copy of Malware in return for an honest review.

To start...I love Sara Rayne's books. Extremely excited to be given a chance to read new material from her!

I hate when reviews have spoilers so I do my best to not include them. That said...I found Malware to be a great prequel/introduction to new characters and a reminder of some familiar ones. The book is well written, holds a steady pace to keep you hooked and as always includes some great steamy scenes. Her characters always jump off the pages for me and draw me into their world. Malware did not disappoint in this!

I do believe that Sara set up an amazing world for future books that will payoff for readers. I can't wait for the next book(s) in the series!!
Profile Image for Sarah Whitenight.
4 reviews
May 5, 2019
I received an an advanced ARC copy of this story for an honest review!

Holy Hades! I have been an avid fan of Sara Rayne for a long time and her new series will not disappoint! In her new story Malware she introduces us to a host of fascinating characters and sets the stage for what looks to be a thrilling new series.

She introduces us to the blossoming love of new characters and hints and some added scorching chemistry between an old favorite fans of her previous work will instantly recognize. If you are a fan of the Four Horsemen series you will be excited for what comes next folks!


I found this story engaging, detailed and it kept me interested from first page to last!

I can’t wait to see what comes next ! After all...... Idle Hands are the Devil’s playthings. 😈
738 reviews3 followers
April 30, 2019
I received Malwear: An Idle Hands Prequel as an Advanced Readers Copy for an honest review.
Holy Crap Sara Rayne did it again! If you have been around for a while you remember her series the Four horseman. Well I am the biggest fan of the Four horseman series. So when I saw a new series was starting I had to get on the Rayne train.
this book is really good I couldn’t put it down. (so make sure you got some time to sit and read)
. This book sucked me in on page 1 and still has not let me go. I can't wait to see what's next. Oh and did I forget to mention we finally get to hear about our love Coyote.
221 reviews
May 16, 2019
Great prequel!! I loved the 4 horsemen series so was excited to see what was coming next, and this prequel definitely didn’t disappoint. Great introduction to the new characters and has me anxiously awaiting book 1 to see what happens next!
Profile Image for Wendy.
7 reviews2 followers
April 26, 2019
I received Malwear: An Idle Hands Prequel as an Advanced Readers Copy for an honest review so here goes! Holy Crap Sara Rayne did it again! I am a huge fan of the Four MC series and I gobble up any book these sisters write and this prequel seriously doesn’t disappoint! I started this book and seriously couldn’t put it down it drew me in from page one.

This book has it everything a prequel should have, it’s funny, well written, there’s drama, suspense and is steaming hot! If you haven’t gotten your geek on before you definitely will by the time you finish this book. What a great start to what is going to be an amazing series. For all the Horseman fans the mere mention of Coyote had this girl screaming and doing a happy dance.
117 reviews3 followers
April 28, 2019
I recieved an Arc in exchange for an honest review.

This prequel has a slow start but bear with it as it does build and you get to see that Riley is a bit of a bad ass and it will wet your appetite for the following book series.
Colt and his scenes are hot as....
The bit at the end is a bit of a shock but leads in nicely to what is in store in the next book where we join one of the guys from the four horsemen MC if you haven’t read the four horsemen don’t worry this won’t affect how you enjoy the book.
I wanted more but won’t have to wait too long for it thankfully
Profile Image for Brandesa Christine.
4 reviews2 followers
May 16, 2019
I received an ARC copy of Malware for an honest review in return. At first I wasn't sure where the story was going, but as I continued to read, I found myself unable to put the book down. Another amazing book by Sara Rayne.
802 reviews11 followers
April 26, 2019
I received an Advance Readers ( review) copy of Malware for a honest review. So here it is !! At first I wasn't sure because come on I know nothing about computers my daughter has to explain what malware was, but I am so glad I took a chance on this book, because it was really good, and the characters were awesome, had a strong story line. So yeah going in with my eyes wide open paid off. Totally enjoyed this book! Can't wait for the next one!
22 reviews38 followers
April 22, 2019
I received an Advanced Review Copy of Malware in exchange for an honest review.
I was really looking forward to this new series from Sara Rayne, but wasn't entirely certain what to expect. I have to say, she has not disappointed me. In fact, she has surpassed my expectations.

This book is fast paced, has really great characters and a great plot. It moves along really well and has a lot of action and has set the stage perfectly for the books which will follow. I am waiting impatiently for the next book in the series. If you want a book that will sweep you up and carry you along, read this.
Profile Image for Racheal.
8 reviews1 follower
April 24, 2019
I received an Advance Copy of this novel in return for Reviewing it.

This novel has been a bit of a wait but it was definitely worth it. Sara has a way with words and storytelling that just suck you in. Her characters are always so personable and fully fleshed out. I love this prequel and am already invested in reading more of each characters own story. Also am super stoked at learning more about the elusive Fox and her role in the Four Horseman.

Perfect beginnings for a new series.
Profile Image for Karina Gabriela .
194 reviews2 followers
April 23, 2019
Wow! I really was not expecting this book! Iam a tech girl...so anything about it hooks me!
I won't lie, it took me like 2 chapters to "get into the story". But once I was in....wow!
Loved the characters...I want all their stories! I want them yesterday!
I strongly recommend this book!
Profile Image for Allena.
1,464 reviews
May 9, 2019
Title: Malware An Idle Hands Prequel
Author: Sara Rayne
Publication Date: 5-17-2019

What a prequel should be; an introduction to the theme and the main players told concisely with good flow and page turning need for questions to be answered.

I had an “my eyes bugged out” moment when a certain Texas biker by the name of
Coyote was whispered.

This is going to be absolutely epic, I honestly can’t wait for book one Jail Break.

Riley Quinn
Socially awkward: “Was I being rude? Sometimes I can’t tell. My apologies.” She straightened. “No, thank you.”
A brilliant coder she has built a team and the program Devil’s Playground that has Edison Sharp promising her anything and everything to acquire the program.

Skylar “Fox” Todd
Researcher and human behavior expert who believes that love is prolonged pain.

Faith Barron
Former crown princess of the anarchist camp that is now in love with Will the former military man. She is suspicious of the government, paranoid, brash and deadly with her armory of weapons.

Colt Barron
Faith’s twin, and king on one night stands seems to be having a problem with certain feelings for a certain someone that is leaving him confused.

Will Cash
Former military with a background in explosives he “bleeds red, white and blue”, his girlfriend Faith says he’s a Paladin. There aren’t two people more opposite than these two; but somehow they worked, until…...
182 reviews4 followers
May 27, 2019
I was lucky enough to receive a copy of an ARC for my honest review. I started reading the Four Horsemen series a couple of years ago and loved it! This book was a great prequel as a way to introduce new characters before Jailbreak comes out. I can’t wait for Coyote!! While it did introduce a lot of characters, it flowed well between everyone without it getting to cluttered and confusing. Great start to this series!
Profile Image for Shannon Vaughan-Patton.
203 reviews
May 25, 2019
Loved it!

I have read all of the Four Horseman MC series and loved them. This series is an awesome crossover and I can't wait to read Jailbreak to see how the series collide. This bookwas a great introduction to the series and gave great descriptions to all of the characters. On to the next adventure for these characters.
Profile Image for Terri.
143 reviews3 followers
May 29, 2019
What a fabulous, interesting book with lots of suspense. You don’t know what to expect next. The characters are fun, brilliant in their field, and what they developed, and a loving group of friends. This is the prequel to a new series starting with jailbreak. I can’t wait to read it and see where this story goes.
Profile Image for Stephanie Murillo.
189 reviews1 follower
May 9, 2019
Loved this book! Great prequel to the series! It introduced all the main characters and their personalities wonderfully. Loved all their interactions amongst each other as well as their interactions with other characters. Can’t wait for the next book, Idle Hands, to come out! Love Sara Rayne’s books! You won’t be disappointed.
Profile Image for Kaci .
323 reviews8 followers
May 5, 2019
This wasn't my usual type of read, but while slow to start soon wraps you in intrigue. I was given an ARC, with the stipulation that I give an honest review. Like I said it was a slow starter for me, but by the end I was tied up in the story and anxiously wanting a good outcome. So give it a chance, and get tied up like I did. I look forward to the next book.
Profile Image for Tessie Tavares.
241 reviews3 followers
May 9, 2019
I received an arc in exchange for a honest review. I loved this prequel. I couldn't put it down. I can't wait to read the series!!
Profile Image for Amanda Weems.
49 reviews3 followers
May 11, 2019
I received an advanced reader copy of Malware for an honest review. First off let me say that I am a huge fan of all Sara Rayne books. Malware was amazing and different. I loved the characters they were so well written and easy to like. Riley was definitely my favorite I love strong characters. I can not wait for more on this series and to get to know more of these great characters.
20 reviews1 follower
June 21, 2019
Great start to a new series with new characters. I am excited for the rest of the series. I am especially looking forward to finally finding out what happens with Fox and Coyote.
Profile Image for Kisa.
72 reviews15 followers
May 10, 2019
I received an Advanced Review Copy of Malware in exchange for an honest review.

What a great start to what I believe is going to be an epic series! The characters are great, the plot had me on the edge of my seat and guessing the whole time. I so cannot wait for the next book.
10 reviews1 follower
June 30, 2019
Have Mercy!!!

What an adrenaline rush! What a prequel! And that sneak peak? Definitely getting Jailbreak as my next go -to read!
392 reviews1 follower
May 29, 2019
A must read! Couldnt put it down. Read it in one sitting. Tried to put it down but went right back to it. This book I highly recommend don't miss out. I laughed outloud, I cried, etc!!! I loved each character!!! Definitely a 5+ book!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews

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