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As her older brother's best friend, Gunner Pierce has been part of Emmie Jackson's life for just about as long as she can remember. The often arrogant, always annoying Gunner keeps his distance - except when it comes to demanding she cover up or chasing away every man who expresses the slightest interest.

When Emmie is kidnapped and confronted with a life or death situation, for the first time, Gunner seems ready to acknowledge what's been between them for longer than either would ever admit.

If he can keep her alive.

As Gunner's past becomes the present, what's important in life comes into sharp focus. Now he'll need to convince Emmie that a future with him is worth living.

This is the story of Gunner and Emmie. The fourth book in the Ride Series Second Generation.

226 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 6, 2020

158 people are currently reading
173 people want to read

About the author

Megan O'Brien

17 books1,505 followers
Megan O'Brien is the best selling author of The Ride Series and the Talon Security Series. She has a passion for a good love story and most enjoys writing stories with an alpha male and strong female characters.
Megan was born and raised in Marin County, California where she still resides with her amazing husband and two lovely sons.

When she's not enjoying family time or burying her nose in her kindle she loves hiking, running and relaxing moments on the back porch with a glass of wine.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 83 reviews
Profile Image for Crystal (Crystalreads2).
970 reviews991 followers
October 6, 2020
Gunner is the first book I have read from Megan O’Brien and will not be my last. I thoroughly enjoyed Gunner. If you are looking for a sweet alpha with a touch of darkness, this book is for you.

Emma and Gunner for years have loved one another, but Gunner has kept Emma at arm's length for her safety. After an Incident, Gunner throws caution to the wind and Pursues a relationship with Emma. From that point, buckle up your seatbelt. The story is fast-paced and emotional. We get Gunners back story and his journey to his present-day. Emma and Gunner's journey is far from easy and has many bumps in the road.

Gunner is a stand-alone. However, I feel like I missed some backstories of the side characters. I will have to read all of Megan O'Brien's previous books, which I will happy to, as I have enjoyed Gunner and look forward to her future books.

I received an arc in exchange for my honest review.
Profile Image for Brooke — brooklynnnnereads.
1,313 reviews266 followers
October 7, 2020
Talk about one heck of an 'alpha male' romance! In all honesty, typically I wouldn't be interested in this level of caveman in a novel but it worked for this particular story (along with the fact that it is fiction). In fact, it worked so well that I couldn't imagine Gunner without these characteristics and it's part of why I liked him so much as a character.

This is a quick, steamy, and romantic story with some suspense and thrill added to it. It was easy to read this in one sitting.

I have not read any of the previous novels in this series but I would be interested in reading them after reading this one. This novel worked well as a standalone but it does spoil readers for the relationships that developed in the previous novels.

***Thank you to Give Me Books Promotions as well as the author Megan O'Brien for sending me this ARC in exchange for an honest review***
Profile Image for Izzie d.
4,303 reviews362 followers
October 6, 2020
Hero is best friends with the heroine's brother.
Not my favourite troupe but this is a bit different.
They grew up in same circles but the heroine's feelings changed towards him recently rather than pining after him all her life.
Hero pushing away and stopping any other male interested in her.
He does chase her quite early on and decide she's his woman.
No objection from her brother.

The story refers to a lot of events from the previous book esp where the heroine and another woman escape a kidnapping and loads of previous couples appear so best to read series in order.
I couldn't remember the last book but I wasn't invested enough to reread to get the story straight.

The Hero is a huge Alpha, growly behaviour, all been done too many times before in other books for me, him objecting to her clothes as other men will look at her etc.

No other woman drama or previous relationship history for the Hero. No interest in anyone else or flirting.
Heroine of course is a virgin.
No intimate scenes other than the Hero and heroine.

Hero is a tortured soul who has a tragic past that he was protecting the heroine from, incase his enemies came for anyone he cared for.
That enemy is the past that comes back to interfere with their happiness.
HEA.
Breadcrumbs dropped for future books in series, esp Grace.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Emily.
5,867 reviews546 followers
June 7, 2021
Emmie Jackson has been in love her Gunner Pierce for years, the problem is he has made it more then clear he doesn't want anything other then friendship. For Emmie though it has been years of mixed signals from Gunner with his overprotective ways and she has finally had enough. Emmie flees out of town after she is kidnapped needing space from the incident and from Gunner.

Gunner realizes he has pushed Emmie away more times then he can count but he has been focused on finding the man who tore his family apart and he doesn't want Emmie in the madman's path. Now Emmie has run and Gunner realizes if he doesn't fix things with Emmie now he may lose her forever. Emmie is gun shy with Gunner though, she is not certain with his sudden change in demeanor but Gunner is going to do everything he can to prove she can trust him and he is worthy of her love.

This was wonderful. I had been anxious to read this book after the third book in this series. Emmie and Gunner finally get their story and it was everything I hoped for. I am anxious to see if their is a spin off series with some of the new characters introduced in this book. Can't wait for what is next in this series.
Profile Image for A.BookNerd.Bookseller&Bibliophile.Blog.
2,787 reviews107 followers
October 6, 2020
I have found a new MC series to enjoy! This book is really good. I.loved the hero and heroine. There was love, danger, and a new Club to meet. I can't wait to read the next one.

~Clare💜
Profile Image for Zoe.
266 reviews
October 14, 2020
This absolutely pains me...PAINS me to say...but this book was JUST okay. I know I know, I am in the minority here, but hear me out.

I had SUCH high hopes for Gunner, especially how she set them up at the end of Cash, but it felt like a let down. I felt like Megan rushed through this book and didn't give Gunner and Emmie the same build and love she gave everyone else, especially Wren & Max. As a couple who has such a vast history, I was upset that the book, especially the Prologue, didn't include more of it. Also, the way she conveyed Emmie in this book did not match for the way she was compared in the other books. In the other books Emmie had come across as a sweet, shy, caring, strong individual with a lot of depth (and remember, she was a secondary character in these books), but in this book she came across as this fake tough badass who is weak and somewhat a doormat, but also not really? I honestly don't even know how to explain it, but it just did not align up with the Emmie I was expecting and I was extremely disappointed about this. I could see what Megan was trying to do, but sadly, it did not come across that way. Megan's portrayal of Gunner did not bother me.

Another thing about this story that was disappointing to me was that it felt like their story lacked the depth the other stories had. I know I know...you must think I am crazy because we have a plot for vengeance and a dead father, but I stand by what I said! It just feels like Megan tried to put so much into this novel that she lost Emmie and Gunner, which should have been the focus. She had to include so much to introduce Ruston, and reintroduce Mason, that - at the end - I was honestly reading it more for tidbits abut Ruston and Ava and Mason than for Em and Gunner. This book felt like a build up for the next books in the series versus being an addition to the series.

Even with all this, I still recommend the read so you can meet Ruston and Ava and re-meet Mason. I just hope that Megan writes Ruston's book next and maybe allows Ava and Mason to get together! I would absolutely loved it if Mason was able to marry into the Kings so he is still able to have football, something he loves, and the family he is so obviously missing.
2,014 reviews24 followers
October 7, 2020
Not safe for some. Based on this quote "No sexual experience I'd had even came close,..." So it sounds to me he's been with others even though he claims that he's loved her for years but had to keep her at arms length to keep her safe. Don't care for that trope. She was a virgin.
89 reviews
October 13, 2020
I live this author. She is one of my go to’s whenever a new book comes out. Okay so Emmie and Gunner finally get their happy ever after. But while we got their story we also got to meet another MC, where Ruston is prez. I hope we get a series with that group. I can’t wait for Graces story up next.
Profile Image for Flavs is Mrs David Gandy♥~♥’.
3,424 reviews2 followers
October 6, 2020
Emmie and Gunner have been dancing around each other for years. Gunner is her brother Max's best friend so he has been in her life for years. And she has been in love with him forever, but this is the last. She feels that she needs to move. After his last rejection, Emmie feels that maybe she was wrong about his feelings for her.

But when Emmie gets kidnapped Gunners eyes are opened and he realizes that life is too short and he needs to claim his women right now.
Unfortunately his past has come back with a vengeance. And this might be another threat to their happily ever after...

I have always enjoyed this authors books. And this one was just another one added to the list. This book was drama, suspense, action and romance galore. Just what you need in a MC story. I hope this isn't the end and looked forward to more stories in the second generation💖😊

Read on behalf of
Fay's Corner
23 reviews2 followers
October 7, 2020
Megan O'Brien is one of my favourite MC authors and never disappoints. This story centres around Gunner and Emmie who grew up together and have had feelings for each other since they were sixteen but Gunner has always pushed his feelings aside and sometimes been cruel in his comments towards Emmie, all this to protect her from the man who killed his father and who he has been hunting for most of his adult life. After Emmie's life is threatened, Gunner finally decides that he can no longer live without her and that she needs his protection. Emmie is hesitant at first to move forward with Gunner but he slowly shows her that his feelings are real and that he wants a future with her.

I don't often like second generation series but this author has done a great job of drawing the reader in and making the characters believable. Personally, I think this second generation series is as good as the first. I really liked Gunner and Emmie and thought the chemistry was very realistic. Loved catching up with characters from the original series and I'm hoping that the author is setting the scene for a new series in the future by introducing Rushton.

This book was fast paced, full of intrigue and drama and as always humour and romance. You can always count on this author to write a well developed and intriguing storyline and characters that are realistic and likeable.

I would strongly recommend re-reading the previous books in the series as it's been a year since her last release and will definitely enhance the reading experience plus who wouldn't want to relive The Knights MC.

Looking forward to Grace and Rushton's story and hoping the wait won't be too long.

Loved it and would definitely recommend.
56 reviews2 followers
January 24, 2021
First let me start by having a small rant!! PLEASE DO NOT GIVE AN AUTHOR A LOW STAR RATING IF THIS IS THE FIRST BOOK OF AN ONGOING SERIES THAT YOU HAVE READ. OF COURSE IT WON'T MAKE SENSE!!!!! IT'S NOT THE AUTHORS FAULT YOU STARTED AT END NOT THE BEGINNING!!!! I HATE IT WHEN READERS DO THIS TO AUTHORS!!! THAT IS JUST RUDE OF YOU TO DO AND IT SCREWS UP THE AUTHORS RATING....SO STOP!!! Okay rant over and thank you because I needed to say that!!
Now Gunner.....I have loved him from the first time I was introduced to him. He is really a Teddy Bear wrapped up in a bad a** body and would and does do anything to protect those he loves. Emmie, to me, started off as loving Gunner but trying (and failing) to keep it hidden because for the way Gunner had kept pushing her away. When we find out the reason I thought he was crazy and should have pulled her closer not pushed her away. Anyway he gets it right in the end and that is all that matters. I thought there was plenty of action and loving in equal measure and I always LOVE getting to hear from the original Ride members!! I was also excited to see that some new players have entered the game. I look forward to Grace and Ruston and I hope we get to see Mason get his girl soon....and just saying it would be nice to figure out a way for him to come back and join his MC brothers (but don't get him hurt playing football to do it please)!! All in all this book to me was as wonderful as all of MO books are and I can't wait to see what's next. Hang in there Ms. O'Brien and don't listen to the nay sayers. You are a kick a** author and ALWAYS a one click buy for me!!
Profile Image for World Of Books 65.
3,229 reviews60 followers
October 3, 2020
I loved the first generation but I adore the Knights MC second generation. Megan O'Brien has another hit series on her hands. This tight knit MC brotherhood will do anything for their family, wife's and brothers and you can't help falling in love with each and everyone of them.
If you are new to Megan O'Brien but love MC romances you won't be disappointed and if this is your first step into an MC world then you can't go wrong with your fist dip being a book written by this author!

Emmie and her brothers have grown up in the MC and Gunner has been Emmie's brother Max's best friend since childhood in the last book when Gunner gets injured that Emmie final admit's she has feelings for Gunner - but although Gunner has alway's seen Emmie has his he always keeps her at arms lengths thinking he is protecting her from his past but now with Emmie getting kidnapped in the last book Gunner is done hiding his feelings.

But Emmie is now weary and doesn't want to get her heart broken - why all of a sudden after all this time is Gunner making a play? what is in his past that is threatening they future? and can Gunner final end it and get the girl that should have been his since they were 8 years old!
Profile Image for Samantha (Millennial Life Crisis Bookshelf).
1,429 reviews22 followers
October 6, 2020
So dang excited for the continuation of the second generation! Between the romance and suspense in Megan’s books, I can’t get enough and find myself obsessed with each book she releases! Emma and Gunner have always had feelings for each other after meeting at children, but he has always kept her at arm’s length and not let her in and she could never figure out why. When she shoots her shot and he turns her down, she’s devastated, but his true feelings come out when she’s kidnapped somewhat on accident and he experiences fear. Deciding to take a chance, Gunner fights for Emma and the pair decides to give things a go, and it’s so natural for them to fall into step with it. Helping Gunner take on the revenge of a lifetime, Emma is 100% on board to help no matter what. The suspense in this book is crazy good – things I saw coming still shocked me! Thankfully we get the HEA this couple deserves, and the epilogue is an added bonus that really gives the book a full circle effect for me. I cannot wait for the next installment – hoping it’s Grace’s story because the hints in this book for it were amazing and had me hooked!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
Profile Image for Cassie Ashford.
1,073 reviews10 followers
October 6, 2020
Magnificent! I have been waiting so very patiently what feels like an eternity for this book and it was worth the every second. Gunner and Emmie’s journey was one that need finesse and Megan gave it just that!

I would definitely suggest reading the previous books in this series before this one but it’s not absolutely necessary. It just makes the feelings so much more meaningful in my opinion. Deeper between Gunner and Emmie.

After what happened in the last book it was like Gunner finally just threw his gloves off and said he was done holding back from Emmie. This woman has always been his and he couldn’t hold back any more regardless of his reasons. It threw her for a loop and this lead us on our journey with with their relationship throughout their story.

Their chemistry and emotions are off the chart. I see so many characteristics from the original generation in them but they also have some new traits that I love that make them their own.

I just love this whole series! The old generation and the new! Every book has been a re-read of mine and this one will be as well. It’s a timeless book that can carry on throughout the years.
Profile Image for Brittany.
426 reviews40 followers
October 6, 2020
Gunner, the fourth book in Megan OBriens Ride Series, second generation, is here! I have been anxiously awaiting Gunner and Emmie's story, and Megan didn't disappoint me. Though I knew she wouldn't.

What I loved:
No flashbacks. My favorite thing to say ever. Gunner and Emmie have a long history since they have known each other almost their entire lives. There wasn't a need for flashbacks, and thank goodness Megan didn't use them.

They get right to the point fairly quickly. Insta-love is a fine line for me, but it's evident in Gunner and Emmie's case. They've been in love for years, no need to beat around the bush about it. We dive right into their issues, and it's a perfect place to start.

Overall:
I've been invested in all these characters since I started the original Ride Series with Cole. So for me, it was going to be hard for Megan to mess up Gunner and Emmie's story. I love the boyfriends best friend trope, that they've known each other forever, their tie in's to the club. It's another beautiful story for this series, and now I am sooooo ready for Gracie and Ruston's story I could burst!
Profile Image for Laetitia.
1,305 reviews31 followers
October 21, 2020
Emmie Jackson is the daughter of Cal the former president of the Knight's and Jill. She's loved Gunner for as long as she can remember, he also grew up in the club. Gunner has kept Emmie at a distance in order to protect her from a danger in his past. But after the danger comes too close, he decides to be with Emmie because life's too short and he can't stay away from her any longer. When Gunner finally makes his move, Emmie is wary because of how he's treated her in the past. Gunner was a man of his word and showed her everyday how much he loved and cared for her. Emmie was a good woman and she wanted to have a happy life with Gunner. I liked the introduction of the Royal Blood MC and their president Ruston King, who's gonna give Cole a run for his money with his daughter Grace. Emmie and Gunner were a good couple, they've known each other their whole lives so things are more familiar with them. They communicate with each other and have fun together wherever they are. I liked the story and how the next generation is stepping up for the club and for their women. I loved the epilogue in particular, Emmie and Gunner have brought love and laughter into their home.
Profile Image for MJ's Book Blog and Reviews.
3,048 reviews65 followers
October 6, 2020
Review by: Jennifer
(5 stars)

Boy do I feel a reread of this series coming on! Gunner and Emmie's story jumps straight into the action, and I swear it didn't stop till the last page. We have seen throughout the series Gunner and Emmie avoid each other, while at the same time want each other. For Emmie it was super confusing, and for Gunner he had his reasons but that didn't make the situation any better. When he realizes that he almost missed his chance at making Emmie his, he decides right then and there that nothing will stop him from claiming her, even if he has to chase her all the way to Denver.

Holy cow Gunner and Emmie were worth the wait! I really enjoyed this series, and love that we get to see all the past characters. I am so excited to see where this series goes. As always there is some really good drama, danger, violence, an uber alpha male, and some really hot naughty bits. I give this 5 stars.
Profile Image for Kbird.
567 reviews13 followers
July 11, 2021
This is a very cute love story. That’s all it is.

If you are interested in the very thin plot that surrounds this love story, I’d recommend reading this book in series order. I did not read the series in order which put me at a great disadvantage as there are multiple references to the past, and then many cameos of their newly in love friends who are not really ever introduced-it’s expected you just know.

If you like the very stereotypical rom-com alpha-male and virgin female romance novel, then baby this is for you! And bonus! There’s no other-women drama, and there are literally no references to other past women or love interests of any kind beyond our main characters.

I would have liked this book more if the plot was substantial enough to be interesting without the love story. Don’t get me wrong, things happen, it is a biker gang after all. There’s bar fights, shoot outs and murder. But it’s all very PG? Brief? Idk how to describe it other than: not engaging.
Profile Image for reader_dreamer_4life.
931 reviews30 followers
October 3, 2020
Books from Megan O'Brien may be few and far between but let me tell you they are worth every second of the wait, and Gunner was no exception!!!! Instantly enthralled in this story, I could not for the life of me put down so I simply devoured in one sitting.
For years, Gunner and Emmie have danced around each other. When Emmie is rescued and survives a dangerous encounter Gunner finally decides consequences be damned, it is time for his head and his heart get on the same page and claim what he has wanted for a long time.... Emmie. Riddled with love, secrets, brotherhood, revenge, suspense, action, steam, and a whole lot of sexy alpha ness Gunner and Emmie's Journey to a HEA is not any easy one, yet every hurdle was worth conquering to reach a beautiful HEA.
Another Must Read For This Series!!!
Megan oh god the sneaky peek for the next book!!!!! Loved it! Need it! hehe.....
Profile Image for Wendy Livingstone.
20.1k reviews257 followers
October 5, 2020
This is the 4th book in this amazing series and is Gunner and Emmie’s journey. Gunner is her brother’s best friends, and they have loved each other for years and danced around their feelings, as he wants to keep her at arm’s length to protect her from his past. When Emmie is kidnapped and in danger until she is rescued, she and Gunner know they must confront their feelings and face reality, as well as any challenges they have along the way. This is a beautifully written series which is filled with emotions, danger, suspense, twists, secrets, heartbreak, revenge, action, and love, which all leads to an all-consuming and riveting steamy read. I was hooked and intrigued throughout this addictive page turner, and I look forward to reading more from this gifted author whose work I recommend for all.
843 reviews
October 5, 2020
Reading Gunner, I knew who belonged to who and I didn't have to look back to remind myself. I enjoy seeing characters we all love become parents of children who find their person and how they handle it. Gunner and Emmie have grown up together. Their love story has some snags like all love stories tend to do, but eventually they work it all out to get their happy ending. Gunner is the typical alpha we love, but he only softens for his Emmie. Emmie is a strong, independent woman. She has overprotective males in her life and Gunner is just another. I liked their relationship dynamic. I loved the family they have. Gunner gave me all the feels. I needed to see where this story was going to go, so I didn't put this book down. I was completely engrossed in this story. Gunner kept me entertained and I loved this story.
Now, I need both Mason and Grace to find their HEAs.
Profile Image for Jennifer Pierson.
11.7k reviews188 followers
October 6, 2020
Gunner Pierce is Emmie Jackson's older brother's best friend, so he's been part of her life for some time. She wants more than friendship with him, but he's always keeping her at arm's length so she finally decides to move on. At that point, Gunner is running off any man who shows the least amount of interest in her, and finally after a bad incident, he decides he's going to claim her. There's just one problem with it, Emmie's not sure if she's going to give him that chance. This story was amazingly emotional as these two people were perfect for each other but the journey was not an easy one so buckle the hell up for one hell of a ride. I'm rather new to the Megan O'Brien world, but it definitely took no time at all for me to become a HUGE fan of hers now, and I CANNOT WAIT for more! HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
Profile Image for Dark Syde Books.
186 reviews16 followers
October 6, 2020
Fantastic installment to the Ride Series! Book 4 of the Second Generation of the Ride Series was nothing short of a great contemporary MC love story. There's action, angst, puppy love, lust...it's got it all! Gunner and Emmie have been dancing around each other since Emmie was 16. Though she was never off-limits to Gunner, he kept his distance because he was harboring a secret mission of vengeance that he felt needed to be out of the way before he could allow himself to love anything or anyone (except his pups). What I really like about Megan O'Brien and this series is that she doesn't write helpless damsels in distress. Emmie has her vulnerable moments, but she stands strong by her man from the get-go and I really love that about this author. Overall...solid 5 stars...would give it more if I could!
Profile Image for Heather  Chaotic Creatives.
1,139 reviews51 followers
September 28, 2020
I have read every book in this entire series and have loved each and every one of them. The men are sweet alphas who will do anything for their leading lady's. Gunner is no different in this respect. He has loved Emmie from afar and it takes something traumatic for him to realize he needs to do something about it. Emmie has grown into a beautiful young woman and knows what she wants. We finally get Gunner's full back story. We get to watch two people who have loved each other from afar come together and find the happiness they both deserve. Now with this being said their journey is not an easy one. There are a few bumps in their road to happiness, but as we all know bumps are worth it when you get to have your HEA.
Profile Image for United Indie Book Blog.
4,681 reviews85 followers
October 4, 2020
"Gunner" by Megan O'Brien 5 stars
Staemy!
Gunner and Emmie try to deny their feelings. They realize Emmie could have died when she was kidnapped.
I like that these characters are so close. They drop what they are doing when one is hurt or in need.

I'm glad the search for Castillo is not a main part of this story. It could have been very violent. It was handled well. It brought the two MC groups closer together.

I like the Epilogue. It is sweet. It gives a glimpse of what happens later. It allows this to be a stand alone book. However, reading the other books allows you to have more understanding of the various plot lines.

REVIEW BY Laura
Profile Image for Andrea.
447 reviews2 followers
October 9, 2020
Gunner & Emmie’s story was amazing

These two are great. I laughed so much at their antics. Gunner and Emmie have known one another their whole lives and have always skirted around their feelings for one another. But when the unexpected happens and they realize life is too short, time skirting around feelings is over. Someone from Gunners past does cause some issues. But we all know how these men are from the Knights MC, they protect what’s theirs.
I definitely recommend reading this book and series if you haven’t yet.
969 reviews9 followers
April 17, 2021
Too many similarities to Max and Wren. Emmie was a virgin. Once again no one was Gunner. However, Gunner was With others even though he was crushing on Em for several years. Unlike Max I do think he was celibate the last few years or wasn't with club girls that others could tell. It was mentioned a few times that he wasn't with anyone in previous books. Why can't heros stay true to their feelings? Why is sex just sex for them? I can't have one without the other. I guess that's what makes women stronger. We try to stay true to our hearts.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Shelley C.
2,947 reviews63 followers
May 2, 2021
4.5 Gunner Stars🌟

Gunner is the fourth book in the second generation series by Megan❣️I bought this book in October hoping to read it as soon as it came out but as usual life got in the way….seeing that Mason was soon to come out (today actually releasing) - I bit the bullet and pushed other books aside to read this one and I’m happy I did😁

A great story of Gunner and Emmie and why he’s kept her at arms length for so many years and some new “Blood” is introduced as well😍 Eager to read Mason and also find out what’s happening with Grace and the Prez to the other MC❤️
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