Grant's Blaze

Shark's Edge #6

by Angel Payne, Victoria Blue

Being someone’s rock is a role Rio Gibson never saw herself playing. On most days, she’s not convinced she can even care for her adopted stray cat. But waiting for the safe return of the man she loves might be the most excruciating trial of her life, and she’s pulled herself together with strength she never knew existed.

Grant Twombley has reached his limit. Normally gregarious and good-natured, his spirit takes a leave of absence after he’s returned to Rio’s side. He’s unharmed—or so it appears. He never thought he’d revisit the dark side of his temperament, but it slides back into place like his favorite worn-in jeans. And what do you know? The damn things still fit.

Maybe a little too well.

If Rio can conquer her demons, she just might be the guiding light Grant needs. But will it be enough for them to finally have their shot at happiness?

Genres: Romance, Romantic Suspense, Contemporary

400 pages, Paperback

First published September 7, 2021

About the author

Writerly sort, with angst + kissing + other stuff.
USAT Bestseller.
Passionate Traveler.
KPop Girlie (StayTiny, Engene, FOHA)
SoCal Girl.
Love is the best super power.

The other parts:
Books & their fun facts:

Lost Princes: Immortal rock stars, mafia, glam world travels

Speed Dating, Hercules and Apollo: Duet with modern mythology and angsty urban suspense

Blood of Zeus Series: Modern mythology, Dante-type hell dives, Professor/student, star-crossed love, fish out of water--and Brock O'Hurn covers!

Shark's Edge (Books 1-6): Glam family saga, romantic suspense, billionaires and their secrets, workplace shenanigans.

The Bolt Saga: Tony Stark meets Christian Grey. Super-powered hero meets sassy heroine for electric attraction. Bad guys follow. Body count rises. More "electric" fun.

Honor Bound: Military Doms and their headstrong heroines in romantic adventures across the globe.

The Cimarron Saga: Dark & brooding royal heroes on a Mediterranean island that's been sealed off from the world for 150 years.

Temptation Court: Cimarron spinoff set in modern-day New York. Yep; another dark & brooding hero too.

Secrets of Stone: Sweeping family saga with emotional twists and turns. And maybe a few "kissing parts". And maybe a little more than that...

Misadventures with a Time Traveler/Misadventures with a Duke: Time-traveling brothers in modern-day settings, meeting their destined loves.

Suited for Sin: High heat alphas who know how to knot more than a tie.

Reviews

[Rachel Blackburn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow. I don’t even know what to say. To say that I have to know more is an understatement. I need more of the mystery that follows Sebastian, Grant and Elijah. I need more to Elijah’s story, to see if he ends up with who I think, who I’m hoping, because it’s inevitable that if two out of three bachelors are out if commission, the third is too. Angel and Victoria continue to amaze me, reel me in, make me want more, and if I’m being honest my husband is thankful as well, I think, because the scenes in these books get me feeling a way that even he blushes…so, thank you beautiful ladies for that!

[Angela · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book had my emotions on an unimaginable rollercoaster. Up one hill, down another, hold on tight, here comes a big curve ahead.

Grant and Rio are such a magical couple. They are tougher than nails, but soft as cotton, at the same time. They have both been through some major crisis in life. Grant just didn't think about his, until he was taken and held captive. Rip has a history of mental issues.

A the end, was the most rollercoaster curve ever, but the best ride you could be on. I need more of this series

Angel Payne and Victoria Blue are truly masters at there craft, and need to never stop writing books this good.

[Linda Dunn · Rating 5 out of 5]

You can only be strong for so long until you reach the point where you break physically, mentally and emotionally...

Once again, Angel and Victoria have swept me off my feet. Rio and Grant gripped me in ways and feelings I did not know I had. Rio had always leaned on Grant's strength and courage. It now seems the tables are turned a bit and Grant needs Rio's support and love more than ever. I found myself in tears over certain scenes that were so moving and touching.

The trio of Sebastian, Grant and Elijah are a force to be reckoned with. They are bonded so tightly together. I crave to read more of these men of mystery. I am crossing my fingers that we get Elijah's story. He definitely has one to tell and I can't wait to hear it.

[Sissy's Romance Book Review · Rating 5 out of 5]

Grant's Blaze by Angel Payne and Victoria Blue is book 6 in the Shark's Edge Series. This continues the story of Grant Twombley and Rio Gibson which first started in book 4 Grant's Heat . So it does help to enjoy their story form the being. Their story has been an exciting one and we pick up where we left off with Grant being taken. Now its Rio's turn to work to get him back. This series has been an exciting one and I am a big fan of these two authors. I can't wait to read more from them.

[April Beatty · Rating 5 out of 5]

Does Grant get found? Does Rio do what Abbi found her on the boat trying to start a fire 🔥?.....Yes he gets found, but Rio doesn't start the fire either. When Grant let's her know where he is, she rushes to him. They make a flaming hot couple!! But the real question is, do they work out there differences? Read to find out!! This book is beautifully written. The details are out of this world. Cant wait for the next couple!! An the next book.

[Sharon Wingo · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love Grant and Rios story. This picks up with Rio going out of her mind with worry after Grants kidnapping in the previous book. Rio rises above her issues to come to Grants aid and does whatever she can to be his rock. Angel and Victoria never disappoint and these books are definitely better with each one. Now to wait for the next book to see where that one takes us!

[Corinne Akers · Rating 5 out of 5]

The previous book ended with Grant getting kid napped by pirates off the yacht that he and Rio were staying on. After spending weeks together, making progress to help her heal after losing her husband and then spiraling out of control, Grant is taken and beaten and abused while being held captive. Once released into the ocean, his captors don’t think he’ll survive the waters, and they leave him to die. Amazingly, Grant relies on survival skills and luck and somehow manages to get swept to the coast of an island where he gets rescued. Once reunited with Rio - he realizes that the tables have now turned and he is now the one who needs to rely on her. As the navigate the changes in their relationship and learn that in order to have any kind of lasting love they must learn to communicate with each other and rely on each other - can they do that? Are either of them at that place yet? Can Rio let go of the past with Sean enough to move the n with Grant? And can Grant, who has been physically traumatized, recover from his injuries and be the dominant man he used to be?

This book was a beautiful journey for these two of self discovery, I say, for both of them! They both came to realizations in this book that showed that the characters had both grown up some from their first book! I love these two together! They’re funny, cute, sexy, hot, intense - everything you’d look for in a leading couple!! I highly recommend this book and really this entire series and I can’t wait to find out what happens in Elijah’s story!! Plus, also, I want more of the entire gang!! I love this group you’ve create!! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

[Kimberly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Spoiler alert: this series just gets better with each new book. No spoiler there. Haha. Grant and Rio’s chemistry continues to top the charts. In this book Grant deals with PTSD from the trauma he encountered in the previous book. (I don’t want to run it for those who have not read the previous book). Grant also deals with childhood trauma. These authors give you insight into Grants life. It is such an amazing story. The authors also begin to introduce Elijah into the story line. We have seen snippets of him, but now the authors give us more leading into book 7 I am assuming.

[Susan High · Rating 5 out of 5]

Knocked this one out of the park!! I'm so glad they are telling Elijah's story because I don't want this to end. Rio is my absolute favorite. I love that her mental health is in your face & she isn't the typical female like in most books. I feel like I can relate to her more than other female leads. Wonderful series.

[Nicki - The Overflowing Bookcase · Rating 5 out of 5]

When Grant was ripped from Rio's grasp at the end of the previous book,, the reader that that she would spiral out of control. But when he returns from his nightmare it is Grant who needs to be picked up and held. can two broken individuals be exactly what the other needs to survive? And will this be the beginning or the end of the rest of their lives? With so much angst that just drips off the pages Angel Payne and Victoria Blue proved once again that their storylines cannot be matched. Each book in the series gets better and better and I cannot wait to see where they takes us next.

[Kecia Campos · Rating 5 out of 5]

As always Angel Payne and Victoria Blue did not disappoint. I loved the ending to Grant's and Rio's story. I loved the whole book actually. I can't wait to read Elijah's story. I love you beautiful ladies. Please keep up the good work. We appreciate you guys.

[Jeanette · Rating 5 out of 5]

The story of Rio and Grant continues. Grant is trying to work through his issues that arise in this book and the death of his mother from his childhood. Rio is still dealing with her own issues, but seems to have a better handle on them and her emotions. Tables have turned for the couple, as now Grant is the one needing Rio’s support, to be his rock.
Bas, Elijah, and Grant are such a great bro trio. Their gabs are so great. I loved the Helen Hardt drop, like an Easter egg they would put in video games. My favorite part was the ending, so flipping swoony!
I can’t wait for answers on who the mystery person messing with this group of guys is. I can’t wait to see more of Elijah’s story unfold. Answers, answers, answers!
Another fabulous read from this dynamic duo! Congrats ladies ❤️

[MaryAnn Costanzo · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my goodness.. I just love Grant and Rio's story.. She is such a spitfire. I think what Grant went through has brought them closer. I would still like to know how he became the target.. AND Elijah what in the holy hell is going on with him? Can't wait for this story to continue.

[Christy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This installment continues with Grant being kidnapped and Rio going out of her mind with worry. Ofcourse he makes it back, not without difficulty and they struggle to make things work. But we all know that they belong together!

[Crystal Stafford · Rating 4 out of 5]

How exciting, Book 6 in the Shark's Edge Series by the fabulous Angel Payne & Victoria Blue! Two really incredible authors who are among my top read, got to, one click for romance writers with some Edge. Grant's Flame ended on a huge and almost depressing cliff hanger; Grant had been abducted by pirates and Rio was dangerously close to relapse with the match ready to strike and burn down her sweet and sensual memories of her lover who was now gone. Desperate for answers Rio will stop at nothing to get her man back but where can she turn? Who can she trust? And will Grant be saved in time?

This book started polar opposites of what I expected. Rio is no longer seconds away from destruction but on her way to Elijah Banks for help to find her man. There has not been too much communication between these two characters in the past, so I was really looking forward to seeing two important people to Grant get along and work together. Do you think that is what happened? N. O. baby! Rio is tough even on her best days and Elijah is alpha male galore. So, it was pretty funny seeing their interactions throughout this book. And then I was surprised that we didn't see Grants abduction or his days in captivity through his eyes but through his memoires. At first, I thought it might take away from this part of the storyline but as I read, I was convinced this was the way to go because it added more to Grants character rather than us seeing him torn down. This was, as usual, a harder story because Grant and Rio have been on a rollercoaster ride ever since they have met. And Rio and us as readers (or at least myself) are still mourning Sean and all the things in Rio's life that have changed with his absence. Some for the better though and the biggest thing of all being Grant.

I cannot compare Grant to many other hero's because he really is wonderful in every sense of the word. He is humble but cocky, sweet yet knows when to put his foot down, caring and understanding and let's not forget the mouth he has on him. He has devoted so much time to Rio and making her fall for him but in her own time. I adore this man and his struggles during this book broke my heart. But we learned a lot about him and his past and I was so pleased to see more of Bas and Elijah, his lifelong friends, communication and having his back. Bas is and always will be a favorite of mine and I was so very happy to read Grant admit that he missed his best friend. I think Bas's good outweighs his bad and I wanted Grant and him in the same corner again. Victoria and Angel did a phenomenal job portraying Grants PTSD and an even better job at showing us just how much he loves Rio. His declarations of love for that woman are heart stopping.

Rio. Oh Rio Rio Rio. I may be the minority here, but I have struggled with her as our heroine from the beginning of her and Grants books. I think maybe it is because I can't really put myself in her shoes. I hate to be ignorant in that sense because she really is a special woman and I truly wanted nothing more than for her to be happy and healthy. Again, Victoria and Angel's detail and understanding of her mental health issues surpassed anything I expected. Rio can be so funny and the sass on her is level 10 which I adore. My heart just continues to break for her. But this book and her state of mind it in is leaps and bounds in the right direction. It was great to see her take on the role of finally being the one to help Grant when he needed her the most, just by being her. She lets forgiveness in, and I think that is the one thing I have struggled with the most.

Grant and Rio have insane chemistry that just gets steamier in every book. The role play was thrilling, and I loved how caring and gentle they could be with each other. They each struggle a lot in this book and in the end, it only enhances their relationship, and the path life has taken them on together. It's sweet and sexy all at the same time.

I thought this was a great addition to the series and a solid ending to Grant and Rio's books for the most part. I just have this small feeling that I needed a little more to the ending, particularly between Rio and Abbi and Bas. I wasn't looking for all is forgiven written across the sky but something important seemed to be missing. But I really can't wait for more of this series. I think so much has been set up well for more answers and for Elijah's books. The suspense is there, and it is strong. I know there is so much more to look forward to and I am thrilled that I still love this series. Elijah has been a favorite of mine and I'm sure he is going to continue to be. MORE EDGE MORE EDGE!

[Sandy S · Rating 4 out of 5]

GRANT’S BLAZE is the sixth instalment in the contemporary,adult SHARK’S EDGE erotic, romantic suspense series co-authored by Angel Payne and Victoria Blue, and the third instalment focusing on businessman Grant Twombley, and caterer Rio Gibson. GRANT’S BLAZE should be not read as a stand alone as it picks up after the events and cliff hanger of book two GRANT’S FLAME. Grant and Rio were first introduced in books 1-3 of Shark’s Edge.


NOTE: If you have not read the first two books in the series there may be spoilers in my review.

WARNING: Due to the nature of the story line premise, there may be triggers for more sensitive readers.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Grant and Rio) GRANT’S BLAZE picks up immediately after the events and cliff hanger of book two GRANT’S FLAME wherein our hero has been abducted by pirates, and Rio is desperate to find the man that she loves. Begging Grant’s business partner Elijah Banks for help, Rio is stunned to discover that Elijah seems unconcerned about his best friend and partner. Rio, always riding the edge of lucidity and madness, finds herself trying to control the demons that want to pull her down but Grant’s rescue and return comes with secrets of his own, secrets that place Grant precariously on the abyss of spiralling out of control. What ensues is the ongoing relationship between Grant and Rio, and the potential fall-out as Grant continues to struggle in the aftermath of his abduction, and what it means to his business partner Sebastian Stark.

We welcome the return of Grant’s business partners Sebastian Shark and his fiancé Abbigail Gibson, and Elijah Banks; Rio’s co-worker Hannah Farsey, a young woman of whom Elijah is about to take control.


GRANT’S BLAZE is a story of power and control, abuse and obsession, loss, desperation and desperation, and the emotional fall-out of capture and isolation. Payne and Blue pull the reader into a heart breaking and impassioned story of two people on the precipice of both an emotional and mental break down having experienced too many set backs in their lives. The premise is sensitive and haunting; the romance is captivating and provocative-but I dislike the use of a certain four-letter word; the characters are broken, but struggling to heal.


www.thereadingcafe.com

[Living My Best Book Life · Rating 4 out of 5]

Grant's Blaze is another great addition to the Shark's Edge series. This might be one of the most emotional and affecting books in Rio and Grant's story. Angel Payne and Victoria Blue are a magnificent writing duo that knows how to bring the sexy and heartrending moments at the right time!


In this book, Grant is back after being kidnapped. He is all over the place and starts to second guess his life. He is always used to being the person that Rio can lean on and the roles are reversed in this book. As he starts to experience PTSD, he realizes that he needs Rio more than ever.

Rio is such a wonderful character because she is so vulnerable. She is normally hesitant with her life and yet the pain of almost losing her love makes her tougher. Even though Grant isn't asking for direct help, she knows that she will have to help him overcome his demons.

I am so impressed with both Rio and Grant in this book. They showed that their love is strong enough to handle pain and change. It was no easy feat, but they adapted and they did that out of love. The authors really pushed their limits and I think it paid off.

I give Grant's Blaze 4 stars. I highly recommend reading the previous books in the series to fully understand and appreciate these characters' stories. Angel Payne and Victoria Blue give readers the emotional and sensual moments that you crave in a romance.

[Jessica Jarvis · Rating 5 out of 5]

✅Damaged hero/heroine
✅Alpha
✅Billionaire romance
✅Part of series
✅HEA

My review:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Heat factor:🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥

I have been in love with “Tree” since the very beginning of the Shark series….and I loved seeing him finally get his HEA!

My heart has shattered so many times during this series. From the death of Rio’s husband to her mental breakdown to Grant’s abduction and back again. And no two people deserves happiness like these two did!

This book was fabulous and a great way to end their journey. Grant will have you constantly swooning in the way only he can. He is just perfect! (Total book boyfriend material perfection).

We still get all the alpha bossiness that comes with Grant and the amazing chemistry between he and Rio. And Rio is still the perfect little spitfire she’s always been but now she’s stronger because of Grant.

I can’t wait to see where the story leads to next with Elijah’s story!

Great job Angel and Victoria❤️❤️❤️❤️

[B. Milligan · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you need a reality escape, then this is the book to do it!
We all need a Grant in our life!
I am sad to see Rio & Grant's story to end but excited to see where the next book takes me.

As I read Rio and Grant's trilogy within the series, I definitely noticed and loved the character growth, the forming of friendships and the overall dialogue. The story was great! Rio and Grant dealt with many struggles through their relationship but always found a way to hold on and push through.

[Shel · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a ride!

Everything this couple goes through is a rip your heart out and push it back in adventure. His torture is hers as well. He nightmares are hers too. The loving way they pull each other through is amazing. Until once again they are at a crossroad.

With an ending so tender and sweet that you almost forget what haunts them. Almost.

The series is gripping in it's dramatic moments. It is sweltering in it's heat. It is heartbreaking in the moments of pain and sorrow. But it is so worth the wait for the next books!

[Erica · Rating 5 out of 5]

Grant and Rio's story picks up right where we left off. This time it's Grant that's broken. He is not who he used to be but wants to get back there. His and Rio's story is one that has come a long way and I love "Tree" and his passion for Rio. There story may be over but I can't wait for what's next with these men!

[Kayleigh Confair · Rating 5 out of 5]

HOLY COW! <3 This book was amazing!

Rio and Grant's chemistry is off the charts! As Rio fights through her own demons to try and be her true self, she also must be Grant's shining light after his ordeal with the pirates.

But those pirates did a number on her Tree. Her poor, strong, wonderful Tree is nothing more than a twig, and now deals with outbursts, mood swings, nightmares, and PTSD.

Will Rio's love be enough for Grant to fight through all the pain? Or will his blaze be put out, and their passion extinguished?

IT WAS GORGEOUS! <3

[Alicia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow!!!!!

Love this book so much. Rio and Grant's story is my favorite one yet. Victoria Blue knows how to play with your emotions. Sad, mad, angry, happy. I experienced everyone while reading this book. Thank you for being an amazing author. I can't wait for the next one.

[Lindsay Elmore · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hands down an amazing conclusion to one couple and the hints of a new couple to come! I absolutely loved how Angel and Victoria wrapped up the story of Grant and Rio. They are a couple who will continue to grow and I can't wait to see more of their journey. But my overall favorite part of this book was seeing the sparks fly between a new couple.

I have a feeling we will continue to see Grant and Rio on the next journey with Elijah and Hannah! EEEEK!!! I'm fangirling inside as to what is to come in the Shark's Edge series!

[Kristi · Rating 5 out of 5]

This starts where we ended on Grant’s Flame and boy did it not disappoint! The trials of mental health for both Grant and Rio really give you all the feelings. Their highs and lows felt like my own! I really enjoyed the feeling of being on the edge of my seat with all the suspense and mystery through out this series. It will defiantly keep you captivated till the very end.
This is unquestionably a page turner.. I couldn’t put it down!

[Bridget Shaw · Rating 5 out of 5]

This series is absolutely amazing. The twists and turns are always surprising. Grant and Rio’s story continues. Grant is kidnapped and Rio is beside herself. Her struggle with her mental health will have to take a back burner to Grant’s healing after being kidnapped. They continue to be strong for each other and their relationship grows stronger.

[Christina Mages · Rating 5 out of 5]

Angel & Victoria did it again. All kinds of feelings through the whole book. Once I started it I didn't want to put it down. Loved it

[Ramona · Rating 5 out of 5]

Completely soul gripping! Grant and Rio have struggled through their relationship to find a footing. When the roles are reversed and Rio has to dig deep to be strong enough to be there for Grant without cracking. But is it possible he won't let her be the one that's there for him?
Thank you Angel and Victoria for this book.

[Samantha Navarro · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ugh!!! I need more. Victoria and Angel have done it with his book. It is book 6 in the series. This story had all my emotions every where. And it was the best feeling. The chemistry between Grant and Rio is amazing and so HOT!!! You will fall in love with this story that continues.

[Carol Ann Doveatt · Rating 5 out of 5]

Exceptional Love Story

What an amazing end to the fabulous story of Grant "Tree" Twombley and Rio "Blaze Gibson! This book is richly written and we are seamlessly lead into this story from the previous book. The characters are well developed, and have grown so much since their first meeting. Both Rio and Grant have suffered in their lives and this brings them closer together. They learn to take care of each other and Grant realizes that that having Rio love him completely does not make him any less of a man. He suffers mentally and physically from his kidnapping and subsequent torture, and Rio finds a way to help her man discover that they are a team and partners take care of each other. They are combustible together. Incredible heat for these two and delightful sweet banter plus Grant is such a romantic. I am sad this couple have completed their journey although I do hope that we will see them in the books to come in Shark's Edge. Fabulous job Victoria Blue and Angel Payne. This couple grabbed me and kept me entertained, and glued to my screen wondering what would happen next. Congratulations on one alluring series. I have loved all six books. If you haven't started this series, you need to.