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A Manhattan Sloane Thriller #2
From the Ashes
After narrowly escaping death in Out of the Flames, San Francisco police detective Manhattan Sloane goes after the corrupt officials who had a hand in her wife’s murder. Would-be lover, DEA Agent Finn Harper, puts her career on the line again to help. Along the way, Sloane and Finn stir up a hornet’s nest and the cartel drug lord pulling all the strings. Soon, they’re swept up in his destructive path of revenge that puts Sloane in a battle between desperation and conscience. How far will she go to save someone she loves?
273 pages, Paperback
First published December 1, 2020
18 people are currently reading
140 people want to read
About the author
Stacy Lynn Miller
20 books113 followersStacy Lynn Miller is a retired Air Force officer who found her passion for writing after leaving the service. With twenty years of experience wearing a badge, working with computers, and investigating cases, she has created multiple award-winning thriller and suspense series packed with strong sapphic women, gripping stories, and a perfect blend of intrigue and romance.
Stacy is a visually impaired, proud stroke survivor, mother of two, tech nerd, and chocolate lover. She's also a terrible golfer who managed to get a hole-in-one! When she's not busy writing, you can find her playing golf or enjoying a glass of wine (sometimes both) with her friends and family in Northern California.
Stacy is a visually impaired, proud stroke survivor, mother of two, tech nerd, and chocolate lover. She's also a terrible golfer who managed to get a hole-in-one! When she's not busy writing, you can find her playing golf or enjoying a glass of wine (sometimes both) with her friends and family in Northern California.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
March 8, 2022
**'Don't try to tailor your storytelling to what you think readers will like. Instead try to make it really engaging, enticing, satisfying etc...'
3.5stars!
Still liked the intense law enforcement activities minus the love story and most of those fluffy pov's.
Recommended!
3.5stars!
Still liked the intense law enforcement activities minus the love story and most of those fluffy pov's.
Recommended!
December 13, 2020
A very entertaining read. This is the second book in the Manhattan Sloane Thriller series and a good way to spend a Covid Saturday night. Book one, Out of the Flames, was one of my favorite debut books of the year and it immediately put Stacy Lynn Miller on my authors to watch list. I could not wait to read this second book and the fact it was as good as I hoped, just proves that Bella found another good author in Miller.
This is an action-romance book. I was really happy with the mix of the two genres. Some action romances have so much action that the romance suffers, other times books can have the opposite problem. This book, and actually the series as a whole, has had such a good ratio of both genres that it is exactly what I look for in a good action-romance. This book didn’t have as much angst and pure emotion as the first book, but I didn’t really miss it and I think having less angst fit with the story of growth the characters were on.
With this book having a good mix of romance and action, I think you could pick it up and enjoy the story without reading the first, if you had to. However, I would HIGHLY recommend reading book one, Out of the Flames, first. This current book picks up right after the first book ends. The first book left many threads open and questions that get answered in this book. And the biggest of all is really getting to know the histories of the characters and how the romance actually started. To get the most enjoyment possible, it’s worth reading this series from the beginning.
Since this is a sequel, I want to be careful and not get into too many details since I don’t want to spoiler anything for new readers. I do want to mention that I enjoyed the ending and I liked that it tied up the loose ends and didn’t leave any real questions left hanging. And what I really liked is the way it left a possibility for Miller to write more books in this series, if and when she chooses. I would happily read more of Sloane and Finn any day, but I’m also interested to see what other stories Miller has in store for us.
I would absolutely recommend this series to action-romance fans. This was really entertaining and I could not put the book down until the end. Just to reiterate, I do recommend reading Out of the Flames first. Out of the Flames is a debut and has a few bumps in the beginning, but once that story hits its stride it’s an excellent book and a great companion book to this one. Unfortunately, there are not as many sapphic action-romance books nowadays so this is a series that fans of this genre won't want to miss.
A copy was given to me for an honest review.
This is an action-romance book. I was really happy with the mix of the two genres. Some action romances have so much action that the romance suffers, other times books can have the opposite problem. This book, and actually the series as a whole, has had such a good ratio of both genres that it is exactly what I look for in a good action-romance. This book didn’t have as much angst and pure emotion as the first book, but I didn’t really miss it and I think having less angst fit with the story of growth the characters were on.
With this book having a good mix of romance and action, I think you could pick it up and enjoy the story without reading the first, if you had to. However, I would HIGHLY recommend reading book one, Out of the Flames, first. This current book picks up right after the first book ends. The first book left many threads open and questions that get answered in this book. And the biggest of all is really getting to know the histories of the characters and how the romance actually started. To get the most enjoyment possible, it’s worth reading this series from the beginning.
Since this is a sequel, I want to be careful and not get into too many details since I don’t want to spoiler anything for new readers. I do want to mention that I enjoyed the ending and I liked that it tied up the loose ends and didn’t leave any real questions left hanging. And what I really liked is the way it left a possibility for Miller to write more books in this series, if and when she chooses. I would happily read more of Sloane and Finn any day, but I’m also interested to see what other stories Miller has in store for us.
I would absolutely recommend this series to action-romance fans. This was really entertaining and I could not put the book down until the end. Just to reiterate, I do recommend reading Out of the Flames first. Out of the Flames is a debut and has a few bumps in the beginning, but once that story hits its stride it’s an excellent book and a great companion book to this one. Unfortunately, there are not as many sapphic action-romance books nowadays so this is a series that fans of this genre won't want to miss.
A copy was given to me for an honest review.
April 30, 2022
From the Ashes has more dramatic parts in it than I was prepared for. It has a rather slow start, which was nice, because this title continues the narration only a short while after the ending of Out of the Flames, the first part of the series. So, to get back into the mood, slow was just right. Sloane’s relationship and family life and the criminal case she is working on develop in a steady pace before suddenly taking a dramatic turn to the worse for her.
At first, I worried the plot could develop too slow for too long. However, with a major sudden twist in it, this changes completely and Sloane faces a tricky situation that could cost her more than she is willing to pay after what happened to her wife Avery in part one.
Just like in the first book of the series, plot and characters are great and well-written, and I loved how Sloane’s criminal case and the romance were combined and were used to complete each other.
So, if you enjoy a clever and strong female detective, unexpected twists and turns, and some (not enough, though) believable wlw romance, From the Ashes could be a great title for you.
5 out of 5 stars.
At first, I worried the plot could develop too slow for too long. However, with a major sudden twist in it, this changes completely and Sloane faces a tricky situation that could cost her more than she is willing to pay after what happened to her wife Avery in part one.
Just like in the first book of the series, plot and characters are great and well-written, and I loved how Sloane’s criminal case and the romance were combined and were used to complete each other.
So, if you enjoy a clever and strong female detective, unexpected twists and turns, and some (not enough, though) believable wlw romance, From the Ashes could be a great title for you.
5 out of 5 stars.
December 12, 2020
‘From the Ashes’ is the sequel to ‘Out of the Flames’ and picks back up immediately where the that one ends. Sloane, Finn, and the rest of her crew are trying to find the cartel that was behind the murder of Sloane’s wife while also trying to figure out who the mole is that’s causing havoc to their investigation. I recommend reading the ‘Out of the Flames’ first to really understand the emotional stakes as well as the professional ones.
This is more a game of cat and mouse between the drug lord and Sloane rather than the previous book. I really enjoyed watching Sloane figure everything out, bit by bit. She sometimes made questionable decisions based more on emotion rather than what is considered morally correct, which made this feel more realistic as things aren’t always black and white. Her partner Eric, tells her “You know the difference between the law and justice, and that the two don’t always mean the same thing” right after meeting her and it’s something she struggles with while going after the corrupt officials and cartel and trying to get justice for her wife.
Going after the cartel also brings up problems in her personal life with her daughter. Her daughter, Reagan, is 16 and still grieving her mother’s death. She sees how dangerous this job is for Sloane and wants Sloane to find another job that is safer as she doesn’t want to lose a second mother. Sloane is put in a position of walking a fine line between wanting to work a job she’s wanted to do since she was thirteen and changing those plans for her daughter so she feels safe. She’s only been a parent for a short while and isn’t always confident she’s making the right choice.
While I loved the crime drama aspect of this story, I felt it was somewhat overshadowed by the romance at times. Sloane flipped flopped between being ready to move on from her wife, and feeling guilty for her feelings for Finn. While I understood her dilemma of wanting to do what’s best for Reagan and also give herself time to move on, I felt that it took up too much space. Sloane was in several life and death situations with Finn and others but she always seemed preoccupied with her feelings for Finn and thinking about her when she should’ve been paying attention to the situation she was in. However, this might be personal nitpick for me and may not be an issue with others.
‘From the Ashes’ is an entertaining and action-packed crime thriller. I’m not sure if there’s more planned with this series but I will definitely be looking for Miller’s next work.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and Bella Books in exchange for an honest review.
This is more a game of cat and mouse between the drug lord and Sloane rather than the previous book. I really enjoyed watching Sloane figure everything out, bit by bit. She sometimes made questionable decisions based more on emotion rather than what is considered morally correct, which made this feel more realistic as things aren’t always black and white. Her partner Eric, tells her “You know the difference between the law and justice, and that the two don’t always mean the same thing” right after meeting her and it’s something she struggles with while going after the corrupt officials and cartel and trying to get justice for her wife.
Going after the cartel also brings up problems in her personal life with her daughter. Her daughter, Reagan, is 16 and still grieving her mother’s death. She sees how dangerous this job is for Sloane and wants Sloane to find another job that is safer as she doesn’t want to lose a second mother. Sloane is put in a position of walking a fine line between wanting to work a job she’s wanted to do since she was thirteen and changing those plans for her daughter so she feels safe. She’s only been a parent for a short while and isn’t always confident she’s making the right choice.
While I loved the crime drama aspect of this story, I felt it was somewhat overshadowed by the romance at times. Sloane flipped flopped between being ready to move on from her wife, and feeling guilty for her feelings for Finn. While I understood her dilemma of wanting to do what’s best for Reagan and also give herself time to move on, I felt that it took up too much space. Sloane was in several life and death situations with Finn and others but she always seemed preoccupied with her feelings for Finn and thinking about her when she should’ve been paying attention to the situation she was in. However, this might be personal nitpick for me and may not be an issue with others.
‘From the Ashes’ is an entertaining and action-packed crime thriller. I’m not sure if there’s more planned with this series but I will definitely be looking for Miller’s next work.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and Bella Books in exchange for an honest review.
May 2, 2021
I already mentioned in my review for book 1, that I enjoyed this second book even better than the first, so a short review. The first book had a few bumps for me, mainly because of all the background info that was given on Sloane’s life, but this info made this book perhaps even better. I understood the characters, where they came from and where their fears come from. Because of this, these books should be read in order. There is more romance in this book, although still complex, but the characters are believable and there is good character development. I enjoyed the family moments with Reagan, which are an important part of the book, and again, the crime story where Sloane and Finn are fighting a drug ring brings some good suspense. I definitely recommend this book and I’m happy that I don’t have to wait long for the third book to be published.
May 8, 2021
Review of the Manhattan Sloane Thriller series by Stacy Lynn Miller, audiobooks narrated by Lori Prince
I’ve had this series on my list to read for a long time so now that the audio narration of books 1 and 2 have been released, I decided to give them a try. I loved them and I can’t wait to read book 3, Beyond the Smoke, which is gonna be out very soon (July 2021).
Out of the Flames is book 1 on the series and this author’s debut novel. I admit that the beginning felt a bit choppy for me as it started with a couple of major events in Manhattan Sloane’s life that were separated from each other in big lapses of time which didn’t flow well for me. But after about 10% of the book, the story picks up and it’s a real page-turner.
Ms. Miller likes to put Manhattan through the wringer who – in her 30s – had enough heartbreak and suffering to last her a lifetime. Even though book 1 brings some resolution to the main investigation and to Manhattan’s personal life, it leaves the reader wanting for more. And more they get with book 2, From the Ashes, which picks up from where the previous book left.
From the Ashes doesn’t repeat the bumps of book 1 and takes the reader straight to the action and doesn’t let go until the end. Luckily, there’s also time for romance and relationship difficulties which balances the fast-paced action perfectly. Manhattan and Finn are dynamite together, both as investigation partners and as a couple. They make the reader cheer for their success on both grounds.
I have to warn that this series has some triggers in terms of graphic violence but it’s all justified and essential to the story. Ms. Miller knows how to keep the reader at the edge of their seats waiting for the other shoe to drop at any moment. That’s what you want in an action/crime book, and the author uses her professional experience in the armed forces to describe realistic scenes and situations.
Book 2 doesn’t finish in a cliffhanger but, as in book 1, there are some issues that aren’t completely solved and some decisions open up a number of possibilities. Apparently, the author has plans for future books beyond this one. I’m happy because Manhattan and Finn totally rock together.
Lori Prince narrated this series and really brings the story to life. Her pace is perfect, specially in the numerous nail-biting action scenes but also in the more intimate ones. As usual, her voices for the different characters are distinct, and, as a plus for me personally, she uses for Finn her dreamy “Thayer voice” (after Thayer Reynolds in the Curtis and Reynolds series by Carolyn Elizabeth). If you are looking for a fast-paced action thriller with endearing characters, then this one is for you. 4.5 stars.
Book 1 length: 9 hrs and 40 mins
Book 2 length: 9 hrs and 38 mins
Available in Scribd
I’ve had this series on my list to read for a long time so now that the audio narration of books 1 and 2 have been released, I decided to give them a try. I loved them and I can’t wait to read book 3, Beyond the Smoke, which is gonna be out very soon (July 2021).
Out of the Flames is book 1 on the series and this author’s debut novel. I admit that the beginning felt a bit choppy for me as it started with a couple of major events in Manhattan Sloane’s life that were separated from each other in big lapses of time which didn’t flow well for me. But after about 10% of the book, the story picks up and it’s a real page-turner.
Ms. Miller likes to put Manhattan through the wringer who – in her 30s – had enough heartbreak and suffering to last her a lifetime. Even though book 1 brings some resolution to the main investigation and to Manhattan’s personal life, it leaves the reader wanting for more. And more they get with book 2, From the Ashes, which picks up from where the previous book left.
From the Ashes doesn’t repeat the bumps of book 1 and takes the reader straight to the action and doesn’t let go until the end. Luckily, there’s also time for romance and relationship difficulties which balances the fast-paced action perfectly. Manhattan and Finn are dynamite together, both as investigation partners and as a couple. They make the reader cheer for their success on both grounds.
I have to warn that this series has some triggers in terms of graphic violence but it’s all justified and essential to the story. Ms. Miller knows how to keep the reader at the edge of their seats waiting for the other shoe to drop at any moment. That’s what you want in an action/crime book, and the author uses her professional experience in the armed forces to describe realistic scenes and situations.
Book 2 doesn’t finish in a cliffhanger but, as in book 1, there are some issues that aren’t completely solved and some decisions open up a number of possibilities. Apparently, the author has plans for future books beyond this one. I’m happy because Manhattan and Finn totally rock together.
Lori Prince narrated this series and really brings the story to life. Her pace is perfect, specially in the numerous nail-biting action scenes but also in the more intimate ones. As usual, her voices for the different characters are distinct, and, as a plus for me personally, she uses for Finn her dreamy “Thayer voice” (after Thayer Reynolds in the Curtis and Reynolds series by Carolyn Elizabeth). If you are looking for a fast-paced action thriller with endearing characters, then this one is for you. 4.5 stars.
Book 1 length: 9 hrs and 40 mins
Book 2 length: 9 hrs and 38 mins
Available in Scribd
December 19, 2020
Apologises for the delayed review. Not been very well.
5*
Firstly, if you've not read Stacy Lynn Miller's debut novel and first in the series of 'A Manhattan Sloane Thriller ' .... give it a read. Its called 'Out of the flames' and I can guarantee you will not regret it and be hooked like many of us who are now following her work.
'From the Ashes' follows on from the first book, you don't really need to read the first BUT PLEASE DO! Its fast paced action, keeps you on your toes and includes romance! What's not to love?
The story centres around Manhattan Sloane who works as a detective for the San Francisco police. DEA Finn Harper puts her career on the line once again to help Sloane go after the ones responsible for Sloane's wife's death.
If you're looking for a read that keeps you on your toes with action and you want a little romance too, this one is for you.
I can't wait for future books by Miller.
I was given a copy of this book for a honest review.
Again... please read. :)
5*
Firstly, if you've not read Stacy Lynn Miller's debut novel and first in the series of 'A Manhattan Sloane Thriller ' .... give it a read. Its called 'Out of the flames' and I can guarantee you will not regret it and be hooked like many of us who are now following her work.
'From the Ashes' follows on from the first book, you don't really need to read the first BUT PLEASE DO! Its fast paced action, keeps you on your toes and includes romance! What's not to love?
The story centres around Manhattan Sloane who works as a detective for the San Francisco police. DEA Finn Harper puts her career on the line once again to help Sloane go after the ones responsible for Sloane's wife's death.
If you're looking for a read that keeps you on your toes with action and you want a little romance too, this one is for you.
I can't wait for future books by Miller.
I was given a copy of this book for a honest review.
Again... please read. :)
March 17, 2024
3 stars
Similarly to the previous one. Passable albeit ultimately not exceptional in any way shape or form as far as I could tell.
I'll read the third one, simply because I want to close this story correctly.
Similarly to the previous one. Passable albeit ultimately not exceptional in any way shape or form as far as I could tell.
I'll read the third one, simply because I want to close this story correctly.
April 16, 2022
Available in Scribd
December 16, 2020
I have been looking forward to reading From the Ashes by Stacy Lynn Miller since I read her first Manhattan Sloan novel back in April. I fell in love with Sloan, Finn, and all the other characters in this story while reading the first book, and I wanted more, especially since the story didn’t completely end with the first novel. I’m happy to say I loved this book as much as the first one.
In this second tale, we find Sloan still struggling with her grief over her wife’s death as she also deals with her growing love for Finn. Nothing is ever easy for Sloan and Finn, since the head of the drug cartel they battled in the first book is now looking for revenge, and he’s quite willing to target Sloan and Finn’s loved ones.
This is an action-packed story with a complex plot. Most of the characters in this book were introduced in the first, one so they are already well developed and we learn more about the different members of the drug cartel and their motivations. This is definitely a character-driven tale, and Ms. Miller has done an excellent job of creating realistic characters, both good and bad.
I enjoyed seeing the romance grow between Sloan and Finn, even with all the obstacles that could come between them. The author did a wonderful job weaving this romance into all the action and suspense in the overall story.
As I mentioned above, this book is the second in the Manhattan Sloan series and takes up where the first novel, Out of the Flames ended. These books really need to be read together and in order to get the most enjoyment out of the story. I highly recommend both novels, though, so get them both. You won’t be disappointed.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and Bella Books for an honest review.
In this second tale, we find Sloan still struggling with her grief over her wife’s death as she also deals with her growing love for Finn. Nothing is ever easy for Sloan and Finn, since the head of the drug cartel they battled in the first book is now looking for revenge, and he’s quite willing to target Sloan and Finn’s loved ones.
This is an action-packed story with a complex plot. Most of the characters in this book were introduced in the first, one so they are already well developed and we learn more about the different members of the drug cartel and their motivations. This is definitely a character-driven tale, and Ms. Miller has done an excellent job of creating realistic characters, both good and bad.
I enjoyed seeing the romance grow between Sloan and Finn, even with all the obstacles that could come between them. The author did a wonderful job weaving this romance into all the action and suspense in the overall story.
As I mentioned above, this book is the second in the Manhattan Sloan series and takes up where the first novel, Out of the Flames ended. These books really need to be read together and in order to get the most enjoyment out of the story. I highly recommend both novels, though, so get them both. You won’t be disappointed.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and Bella Books for an honest review.
January 16, 2021
I thoroughly enjoyed the first book in this series and I couldn’t wait to read the second book.
This book picks up right where Out of the Flames left off. So obviously you have to have read the first book to read this. Miller is a very talented author who really knows how to spin an action-romance story. I feel this book has a bit more romance than Out of the Flames, but maybe romance isn’t the right word, a lot more feelings/ emotions are dealt with in this book. But there is plenty of action to keep you on your toes.
I did have some issues with this book, especially with Sloane. I really liked this character in the first book, but in this one, I’m not sure how I feel about her. Just when I thought she redeemed herself she goes and does something to throw me off again. Finn and Reagan are strong characters and I really like them, I did miss a bit of the Tenneys and Eric in this book. Overall the secondary characters, also the bad guys are pretty well written.
I’d love to read more books in this series, and I think the ending is so that there could be more, but it isn’t a must. I am also interested in reading other stories, with different characters from this author. Stacy Lynn Miller is quickly becoming one of my must read authors, and she has only written two books!
This book picks up right where Out of the Flames left off. So obviously you have to have read the first book to read this. Miller is a very talented author who really knows how to spin an action-romance story. I feel this book has a bit more romance than Out of the Flames, but maybe romance isn’t the right word, a lot more feelings/ emotions are dealt with in this book. But there is plenty of action to keep you on your toes.
I did have some issues with this book, especially with Sloane. I really liked this character in the first book, but in this one, I’m not sure how I feel about her. Just when I thought she redeemed herself she goes and does something to throw me off again. Finn and Reagan are strong characters and I really like them, I did miss a bit of the Tenneys and Eric in this book. Overall the secondary characters, also the bad guys are pretty well written.
I’d love to read more books in this series, and I think the ending is so that there could be more, but it isn’t a must. I am also interested in reading other stories, with different characters from this author. Stacy Lynn Miller is quickly becoming one of my must read authors, and she has only written two books!
February 13, 2021
Oh,man... what an exciting ride this was!
I look forward to reading more about these cast of characters, and I hope that one day Eric and Sloane get back to some semblance of a friendship.
I look forward to reading more about these cast of characters, and I hope that one day Eric and Sloane get back to some semblance of a friendship.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 9, 2021
Great sequel !!!
And what's awesome is that Sloane's adventures are not finished ...
And what's awesome is that Sloane's adventures are not finished ...
January 10, 2021
One of the things that Stacy Lynn Miller is skilled at is breathing life into her characters. Even important secondary characters. They all stand up as themselves, and there's never any difficulty remembering who is who. This is as true for Miller's previous book as this one. In fact, when I read the final passage, my first thought was for the future of a secondary character! Who worries what kind of future the daughter of a criminal will have? Me, apparently.
There is danger here, passion, secrets...all of the things that keep me reading long into the night. But this book wormed its way into me and wouldn't let up. I was quite literally unable to sleep because I was worried about one of the secondary characters - an autistic young man. I had to pick the book back up and finish it just so I knew what happened to him.
Miller wrapped up questions left dangling in the first book that I didn't know I had. There was a satisfying sense of completion and closure, and yet...there is still room for more stories to come from this fictional world. I do hope the author is interested in bringing us more from this made-up world of hers because I'll be among the first in line with my money out.
I enjoyed it that much.
There is danger here, passion, secrets...all of the things that keep me reading long into the night. But this book wormed its way into me and wouldn't let up. I was quite literally unable to sleep because I was worried about one of the secondary characters - an autistic young man. I had to pick the book back up and finish it just so I knew what happened to him.
Miller wrapped up questions left dangling in the first book that I didn't know I had. There was a satisfying sense of completion and closure, and yet...there is still room for more stories to come from this fictional world. I do hope the author is interested in bringing us more from this made-up world of hers because I'll be among the first in line with my money out.
I enjoyed it that much.
December 7, 2020
Detective Sloane is back as she still grieving her wife she is determined to find the people who kill her. Sloane gets help from DEA agent Finn who she knew as teens. As they investigate their feelings they had as teenagers are still there but Sloane who stills grieving her wife thinks it’s wrong to have feelings for someone when her wife Avery haven’t been gone long.
As Sloane deals with this she realize being a parent to her stepdaughter Reagan means she has to make sacrifices but as Finn and her are close to the people who kill her wife will she be able to keep everyone she loves safe.
I enjoy this book and can’t wait for the next book.
I received an ARC copy of this book from the Publisher via Netgalley and voluntarily leaving my review.
As Sloane deals with this she realize being a parent to her stepdaughter Reagan means she has to make sacrifices but as Finn and her are close to the people who kill her wife will she be able to keep everyone she loves safe.
I enjoy this book and can’t wait for the next book.
I received an ARC copy of this book from the Publisher via Netgalley and voluntarily leaving my review.
March 11, 2021
Even more hair raisingly gripping than Out of the Flames the tale of Sloane and Finn continues. Just like the first I again read the whole book in one day, even though I had to stop a couple of times to slow my heart rate. Need I say more?
August 27, 2021
An ok second book in the series, this one taking Manhattan Sloane and Finn Harper somewhat deeper into the drug case/cartel of book 1. Hang on for all the bumps and drama and heart eyes and many kisses along the way. Some parts were pretty good, but I felt the book was somewhat recycled from the first. More fires, that pool again, such similar scenarios replayed, right down to the actual environments. Really? It couldn't be changed up? The 16 year old is too good to be true, and like my gripe from book one, the fact that everyone close to Sloane keeps being threatened in such similar manners became redundant. And horrible things happen people, parent's worst nightmares, family lives on the line, yet Sloane and Finn keep making out at the most inappropriate times. It just became too much and very much elicited many an eye-roll from me. So all in all, it was ok, but I was a little disappointed because it could have had great potential to do more. If you suspend all reality, you should be good to go. 3/5.
March 18, 2021
I really liked this book!
I felt like I had missed out on some core aspects of the storyline as I hadn't read book one but after a bit I was fully invested in the story. The chemistry between Sloane and Finn is really strong, so much so that I glossed over the inconsistencies present in this and absolutely gunned for these two to have their HEA.
Not only was the relationship good, but the crime aspect to this was fantastic. I highly recommend giving this one a read, even if you skip book one too!
I felt like I had missed out on some core aspects of the storyline as I hadn't read book one but after a bit I was fully invested in the story. The chemistry between Sloane and Finn is really strong, so much so that I glossed over the inconsistencies present in this and absolutely gunned for these two to have their HEA.
Not only was the relationship good, but the crime aspect to this was fantastic. I highly recommend giving this one a read, even if you skip book one too!
January 31, 2021
This was an action-packed story, just like the first. It picks right up where Out of the Flames left off. I need to watch what I say if you haven’t read the first book, although the blurb gives away some salient points. Sloane and Finn are working hard to catch the gang members, especially the gang lord. As they work on this case, Sloane is still trying to cope with her loss and her relationship with her stepdaughter Reagan as well as figuring out her relationship with Finn. There is some romance, but this is mostly an action-thriller kind of book. There is a bombshell thrown in towards the end, so I hope there will be another Manhattan Sloane book coming that will deal with that revelation. It’s hard to believe this is only Miller’s second book. I will be looking for more from her.
March 16, 2022
A great series
Stacy Lynn Miller creates engaging characters and wonderful, if a little nerve racking, stories. The story reflects the years she spent in law enforcement and so gives it that extra thing that can’t be described in words. I hope there are more Manhattan Sloane thrillers.
Stacy Lynn Miller creates engaging characters and wonderful, if a little nerve racking, stories. The story reflects the years she spent in law enforcement and so gives it that extra thing that can’t be described in words. I hope there are more Manhattan Sloane thrillers.
March 27, 2025
I read Out Of The Flames Bk1 first, (it was on my TBR shelves). I bought this ,Bk2 and Beyond The Smoke Bk3 because I fell in love with Sloane,and then Finn and the action took me from page to page! This series is fantastic! This book and series is a FAVORITE! 5 stars!
December 12, 2021
4.25 stars
May 25, 2021
4.5 stars
This is book 2 of the "really good" Manhattan Sloane series. It is important to read book 1 first...From the Flames.
This book is not as emotional as book 1. Meaning I didnt cry through the entire book. But it was just as moving. Much more detective work, action, romance and angst. Many puzzles solved.
The characters are all interesting and you want to be part of Sloan's ever growing family.
Its just a really interesting story. I am looking forward to book 3.
I listened to the audio version and again loved the narration by Lori Prince. Even though she doesn't do the spanish speakers very good.
This is book 2 of the "really good" Manhattan Sloane series. It is important to read book 1 first...From the Flames.
This book is not as emotional as book 1. Meaning I didnt cry through the entire book. But it was just as moving. Much more detective work, action, romance and angst. Many puzzles solved.
The characters are all interesting and you want to be part of Sloan's ever growing family.
Its just a really interesting story. I am looking forward to book 3.
I listened to the audio version and again loved the narration by Lori Prince. Even though she doesn't do the spanish speakers very good.
January 4, 2021
This is one amazing follow up to book 1.
The characters grow very well together, even though there is still mafia issues going around them.
I felt that the plot to resolve all issues was nicely provided. The war on drug crime was won by wonderful team of police and DEA. You have lots of shooting and kidnapping and all is resolved so well in the end.
The finish was wonderful, and I feel like there will be new set of stories (or so I hope) for the main characters who decide on their new adventure.
The characters grow very well together, even though there is still mafia issues going around them.
I felt that the plot to resolve all issues was nicely provided. The war on drug crime was won by wonderful team of police and DEA. You have lots of shooting and kidnapping and all is resolved so well in the end.
The finish was wonderful, and I feel like there will be new set of stories (or so I hope) for the main characters who decide on their new adventure.
October 3, 2021
I liked the continuation of these characters, and the overarching mystery/case was interesting. I loved Lori Prince’s narration, especially the voice she used for Finn. There was a little too much “cops are the good guys” BS for me that got on my nerves, but I still enjoyed it and want to see where the characters go from here in the next book.
January 26, 2021
This is the second book in the Manhattan Sloane series. I highly recommend the first book because, not only is the really good, but it helps to follow the drama in this book. Following a near death experience and the loss of her wife Sloane doubles down to catch the man responsible. Politics and moles in her own department complicates things but she’s not one to shy away from the fight.
I’m not always a fan of many points of views on top of the two mains, sometimes it works in this story but other times I think there are too many and it waters down some of the suspense. However, this book, like the first one is action packed and you have to keep flipping pages to find out what happens. I think the romance happens a little too quickly since Sloane’s wife just died and while Sloane at times hesitates its not really realistic or consistent and I didn’t find it believeable. If I put that aside I do like Sloane and Finn together both romantically and they make a good team professionally as well.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I’m not always a fan of many points of views on top of the two mains, sometimes it works in this story but other times I think there are too many and it waters down some of the suspense. However, this book, like the first one is action packed and you have to keep flipping pages to find out what happens. I think the romance happens a little too quickly since Sloane’s wife just died and while Sloane at times hesitates its not really realistic or consistent and I didn’t find it believeable. If I put that aside I do like Sloane and Finn together both romantically and they make a good team professionally as well.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
December 13, 2020
From the Ashes is the sequel to Out of the Flames with SFPD Detective Manhattan Sloane and DEA Finn Harper. They're chasing after a Mexican drug cartel who are ultimately responsible for killing Sloane's wife. Sloane and Harper had a connection in high school when they were torn apart after Sloane's parents were killed in car accident. Then they were thrown together on this case as the drug cartel seek revenge for the death of one of their own.
Miller is a wonderful storyteller and this story has you sitting on the edge of your seat from start to finish. The first book in the series, Out of the Flames, was a 5 star read and From the Ashes is the same as it ducks and weaves and thrills and spills all the way to the end. The chemistry between Sloane and Harper is palpable...Miller certainly knows how to write angst into her characters. This book is a thrill a minute and I can't wait for the next one.
Miller is a wonderful storyteller and this story has you sitting on the edge of your seat from start to finish. The first book in the series, Out of the Flames, was a 5 star read and From the Ashes is the same as it ducks and weaves and thrills and spills all the way to the end. The chemistry between Sloane and Harper is palpable...Miller certainly knows how to write angst into her characters. This book is a thrill a minute and I can't wait for the next one.
July 11, 2024
Manhattan Sloane is another in a long line of fictional characters that the story insists they are the best at their job when they are, in fact, uniquely unqualified to do the job. Sloane retires at the end of this book, but she should have been fired.
It bears repeating (from my review of the first book) that giving a character such a distinct name as "Manhattan" but insisting on calling her "Sloane" is a waste of print space.
However, again, the biggest problem with this book is that it doubles down on the biggest problem of the first book--but at least it establishes the actual timeline.
So, within the span of 7 months (apparently), from Sloane's allegedly beloved wife, Avery, getting blown to bits and burned beyond recognition--Sloane moves on to and moves in with another woman. 7 months (okay, maybe 9 for the move in to be complete). Based on personal experience and observation, most people haven't even begun to recover from the traumatic death of a loved one, much less relegate them to having been a placeholder until they reunited with their teenage crush, whom they apparently wanted all along. .
Keep in mind, Avery wasn't just Sloane's wife, she was Reagan's mother. So, now Reagan has to have another woman sleeping where her mom slept and see her step-mom kissing another woman on their couch. That's even disregarding the fact that, post-death, Sloane was so useless, Reagan had to do all the caretaking and was not able to mourn. Their discussion literally went something like this (slight paraphrasing and truncation but true):
Reagan: You're replacing her already?
Sloane: I really like Finn. Can you accept that?
Reagan: I guess (sobs). I miss Mom so much.
Sloane: Me too. So anyway...you cool if she moves in?
Huh? So, that's what a sociopathic narcissist looks like.
Ah, but I can hear the 5SFFs complaining (Five Star Fools & Frauds): SLM (the author) explained in the novel how Sloane and Reagan were able to move on.
Oh, that's right. They had a dream. In fact, both of them had almost the same dream on the same night. In a putatively realistic crime novel, some supernatural jujumagumbo drives the story forward. Sloane dreams:
Avery, wearing a gray wool sweater, hugs Avery behind and says:
Avery: You're a great mother (Based on what? Seriously. I've had college roommates that were better than Sloane at being caring and considerate.) You deserve to be happy. Finn makes you happy. Don't let her go. It's okay.
Sloane: Thank you. Goodbye Avery Santos, I'll never forget...um, what's your name again?
Sloane wakes up and knows it will be okay to have sex with Finn now.
Reagan has a dream with Avery in that damn gray wool sweater on the same deck of the house.
Avery: Sloane loves you. Finn loves you too. Accept her. Be happy.
Reagan: Thanks, mom, for making sure I'd have all I'd need to survive.
Instead of dealing realistically with the trauma, and difficulties that would result from trying to immediately replace a spouse and a mother's place, SLM gives them a ludicrous dream that they both take to be Avery's Star Wars Force Ghost communicating with them--though no other "ghosts" have appeared from any of the many dead people in this book. That Sloane's dream (sorry, "vision") told her exactly what she wanted to hear should have been a red flag--which is why SLM had Reagan have a dream too--to make it "real".
Let's not forget this part too: After the kidnapping is resolved, Sloane promises to make Reagan's safety and comfort paramount. Minutes later, she sends Reagan home with her grandparents and stays at the hospital for several hours. Then, when she does come back, instead of checking on Reagan, she has sex with Finn in Reagan's mom's bed--because Reagan is her first concern. Okay.
Anyway, blah blah blah, after many instances of incompetent and illegal police work with many glimpses of Sloane's sadistic and selfish personality, Sloane and Finn are shocked--SHOCKED--when the drug kingpin that they know knows who they are--kidnaps Reagan and Chandler (Finn's father). It should be noted that, at this point, Sloane had realized that her concern for Reagan had made it impossible for her to be a good partner to Eric (2.5 years of it) because she wouldn't be willing to put her life on the line for him. She doesn't tell him this--not yet--but she knows it's true.
In the ensuing final gun battle, Eric gets shot and reveals he was responsible for the crash that killed Sloane's parents. If my eyes hadn't been attached, they would have rolled out of my head.
Oh, and by "responsible", I should clarify that, though Eric was driving fast (apparently), Sloane's negligent horrible father was completely turned around in his car, arguing with Sloane for daring to sing in the car, while driving too fast himself on a curvy road.
Sloane is, understandably, upset. Of course, because she is so consumed with her own needs and wants and places them over everything, she blames Eric totally for the accident, conveniently forgetting her father's role (or her own). And she's mad that Eric didn't tell her the truth long ago-as if that would have changed anything. She quits being his partner (and the police) and being his friend. She doesn't even bother to visit him during his rehab from his near-death shooting where he took a bullet to help save Reagan and Chandler. When she finds out he had pretty much devoted his life to guide her career and protect her (which yeah, was kind of guilt driven stalking), she decides to--do nothing--except ask Finn to move in with her.
It bears repeating (from my review of the first book) that giving a character such a distinct name as "Manhattan" but insisting on calling her "Sloane" is a waste of print space.
However, again, the biggest problem with this book is that it doubles down on the biggest problem of the first book--but at least it establishes the actual timeline.
So, within the span of 7 months (apparently), from Sloane's allegedly beloved wife, Avery, getting blown to bits and burned beyond recognition--Sloane moves on to and moves in with another woman. 7 months (okay, maybe 9 for the move in to be complete). Based on personal experience and observation, most people haven't even begun to recover from the traumatic death of a loved one, much less relegate them to having been a placeholder until they reunited with their teenage crush, whom they apparently wanted all along. .
Keep in mind, Avery wasn't just Sloane's wife, she was Reagan's mother. So, now Reagan has to have another woman sleeping where her mom slept and see her step-mom kissing another woman on their couch. That's even disregarding the fact that, post-death, Sloane was so useless, Reagan had to do all the caretaking and was not able to mourn. Their discussion literally went something like this (slight paraphrasing and truncation but true):
Reagan: You're replacing her already?
Sloane: I really like Finn. Can you accept that?
Reagan: I guess (sobs). I miss Mom so much.
Sloane: Me too. So anyway...you cool if she moves in?
Huh? So, that's what a sociopathic narcissist looks like.
Ah, but I can hear the 5SFFs complaining (Five Star Fools & Frauds): SLM (the author) explained in the novel how Sloane and Reagan were able to move on.
Oh, that's right. They had a dream. In fact, both of them had almost the same dream on the same night. In a putatively realistic crime novel, some supernatural jujumagumbo drives the story forward. Sloane dreams:
Avery, wearing a gray wool sweater, hugs Avery behind and says:
Avery: You're a great mother (Based on what? Seriously. I've had college roommates that were better than Sloane at being caring and considerate.) You deserve to be happy. Finn makes you happy. Don't let her go. It's okay.
Sloane: Thank you. Goodbye Avery Santos, I'll never forget...um, what's your name again?
Sloane wakes up and knows it will be okay to have sex with Finn now.
Reagan has a dream with Avery in that damn gray wool sweater on the same deck of the house.
Avery: Sloane loves you. Finn loves you too. Accept her. Be happy.
Reagan: Thanks, mom, for making sure I'd have all I'd need to survive.
Instead of dealing realistically with the trauma, and difficulties that would result from trying to immediately replace a spouse and a mother's place, SLM gives them a ludicrous dream that they both take to be Avery's Star Wars Force Ghost communicating with them--though no other "ghosts" have appeared from any of the many dead people in this book. That Sloane's dream (sorry, "vision") told her exactly what she wanted to hear should have been a red flag--which is why SLM had Reagan have a dream too--to make it "real".
Let's not forget this part too: After the kidnapping is resolved, Sloane promises to make Reagan's safety and comfort paramount. Minutes later, she sends Reagan home with her grandparents and stays at the hospital for several hours. Then, when she does come back, instead of checking on Reagan, she has sex with Finn in Reagan's mom's bed--because Reagan is her first concern. Okay.
Anyway, blah blah blah, after many instances of incompetent and illegal police work with many glimpses of Sloane's sadistic and selfish personality, Sloane and Finn are shocked--SHOCKED--when the drug kingpin that they know knows who they are--kidnaps Reagan and Chandler (Finn's father). It should be noted that, at this point, Sloane had realized that her concern for Reagan had made it impossible for her to be a good partner to Eric (2.5 years of it) because she wouldn't be willing to put her life on the line for him. She doesn't tell him this--not yet--but she knows it's true.
In the ensuing final gun battle, Eric gets shot and reveals he was responsible for the crash that killed Sloane's parents. If my eyes hadn't been attached, they would have rolled out of my head.
Oh, and by "responsible", I should clarify that, though Eric was driving fast (apparently), Sloane's negligent horrible father was completely turned around in his car, arguing with Sloane for daring to sing in the car, while driving too fast himself on a curvy road.
Sloane is, understandably, upset. Of course, because she is so consumed with her own needs and wants and places them over everything, she blames Eric totally for the accident, conveniently forgetting her father's role (or her own). And she's mad that Eric didn't tell her the truth long ago-as if that would have changed anything. She quits being his partner (and the police) and being his friend. She doesn't even bother to visit him during his rehab from his near-death shooting where he took a bullet to help save Reagan and Chandler. When she finds out he had pretty much devoted his life to guide her career and protect her (which yeah, was kind of guilt driven stalking), she decides to--do nothing--except ask Finn to move in with her.
April 10, 2021
Excellent Sequel.
Hot damn!! Well that didn't disappoint. I read both books in a day & the sequel offered the same as From the Flames. Intrigue, suspense & a great deal of romantic tension. Not ashamed to admit it, I needed the tissues again. Cannot wait for the 3rd installment due in July.
Hot damn!! Well that didn't disappoint. I read both books in a day & the sequel offered the same as From the Flames. Intrigue, suspense & a great deal of romantic tension. Not ashamed to admit it, I needed the tissues again. Cannot wait for the 3rd installment due in July.
December 7, 2020
From the ashes by Stacy Lynn Miller.
A manhattan Sloane thriller #2.
I really enjoyed this book and even though I haven't read book 1 I got into it. Lots of action. Great characters apart from the bad guys. I liked the story. Looking forward to reading more from this author and series. 5*.
A manhattan Sloane thriller #2.
I really enjoyed this book and even though I haven't read book 1 I got into it. Lots of action. Great characters apart from the bad guys. I liked the story. Looking forward to reading more from this author and series. 5*.
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