Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book

Nate Reigns #1

The Aftermath

Rate this book
The investigation into the death of Prosecuting Attorney Alex Burnett leads to the discovery of other crimes which garners huge headlines for the Richmond Police Department. For the brass, the number of closed cases is a triumph, however, it does not solve the murder of the friend and mentor of Nathan ‘Nate’ Reigns, a detective in the Major Crimes Division.

A one-time top criminal defense attorney, Nate uses his insight from his previous occupation to close his cases. No case leaves his desk marked closed until he has filled every hole a defense attorney will use to free their client. Nate vows justice for his friend. That path leads to an organization with plans that will have far-reaching impacts on the justice departments across the country.

A suspense thriller with a twist that leaves you gasping to breathe…The innocent and the guilty have to deal with the Aftermath.

527 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 21, 2021

51 people are currently reading
42 people want to read

About the author

Iris Bolling

50 books414 followers
Iris Bolling is an award-winning USA Today bestselling author of five series totaling over thirty romantic suspense novels. In addition to writing, she has produced and directed several books to film projects, and scriptwriting projects for other authors.

Amazon: https://amzn.to/3oBaOFQ
Facebook: https://bit.ly/3hXyWRR
Facebook Group: https://bit.ly/3vaiHEp
Twitter: https://bit.ly/3bKr3ew
Instagram: https://bit.ly/3fzLDPT
YouTube: https://bit.ly/3fEsiys

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
311 (88%)
4 stars
30 (8%)
3 stars
8 (2%)
2 stars
4 (1%)
1 star
0 (0%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 107 reviews
Profile Image for MidnightAce Book Bar.
170 reviews11 followers
July 22, 2021
With this new series, the readers should prepare for something different. Iris Bolling has strategically crafted a world that will not only entice the readers' minds and if you dare to have an open mind, be enlightened!

After the heart-gripping death of his friend, Nate is called upon to deal with the AFTERMATH. From the very start, his gut has him questioning whether the people around him are Friend or Foe. When he closes a case, he leaves no stone unturned, and it is ironclad. That is evident with his 96% conviction rate. Nate Reigns is either respected or despised, depending on how you interpret the laws. His philosophy is simple "When the Law breaks the Law...the Consequences can be Deadly". This just may be his most difficult case yet!

THE AFTERMATH, a great intro to this new series. It is a gripping thriller that left me on the edge of my seat with its layered characters and suspenseful dialogue. The author takes us to task and challenges us to be engaged and aware of what's going on in our communities and local governments. I love how the author uses her craft to infuse political history, social commentary, and racial injustices.

Your mission, should you choose to accept the task, will be to partner with these characters and rally to take back the city, one organization at a time. Grab a reliable Book Buddy and a journal its time to see where all the pieces fit.

Full Books & Booze Review: https://www.midnightacebookbar.com/po...
Profile Image for Shone.
1,343 reviews28 followers
August 3, 2021
GMA Worthy

Aftermath, read like a geometric mathematical problem after every chapter the formula changed when I reached the end the problem was still unsolved. The cast of characters kept me talking to myself and in shock from beginning to end. If you enjoy murder, secrets, drama, laughter, truth a mother bear and unbelievable moments AFTERMATH is the book to read. Iris has unlocked our eyes to what is going on in our daily lives.

#Cillasbookmaniacs #MamaToni #
Profile Image for KBeautiful1.
690 reviews66 followers
November 12, 2021
Clawd Ham Mercy!!! For the record, This is not a romance. It is a suspense and thriller novel. Also, I finished this book last month and I am now getting around to doing an official review.

Nate Reigns is a former criminal defense attorney, turned cop, and now a detective. M.r. Reigns used to eat the police department up alive when he was an attorney for his father's law firm. And walking away from it allowed him full autonomy of his life and took his career in an entirely different direction. Now Nate has to investigate which may be his toughest case yet, his best friend and mentor Prosecuting Attorney Alex Burnett.

Who would want to murder Alex and why? There are a number of people that come to mind for Nate, the next question is was it a case that Alex was working on that got him killed, and what was it? Now with more people coming into the mix this is appearing to be more of a deadly slippery slope because outside entities are at evil work, the White House appears to be forming their own investigation, And characters from the Heart Series and the Gems and Gents are coming in to play.

And how does Nate's mother figure into all of this?????

Whew child I can't wait till the next book because I need answers ASAP!!!!

Well Until My Next Review...Ciao!
Profile Image for Martha Ruff.
767 reviews12 followers
July 21, 2021
The Queen Of The Curve Ball Strikes Again🔥🔥🔥🔥

I don't know if I have enough words that are adequate enough to describe how this book has me feeling right now!! I literally have run gauntlet with my emotions, from happy to sad to ultimately pissed, back to sad!!!
I can honestly say that Mrs. Iris Bolling doesn't waste her words, and there's ALWAYS TRUTH woven throughout her stories!!!! I can't wait until the next book in this amazing series to hit the book stores!!
Profile Image for Vondetta Carter.
830 reviews8 followers
June 20, 2025
Just a start

Nate Reigns is a bad boy on many levels. He is a fabulous attorney that gave up his career to begin another as a detective. His best friend Alex is murdered and this begins to unravel a white supremacy plot. This book links other characters like Sapphire to their help being essential
Nate's mother has some secrets that are awesome. I love this book an can't wait to see how this series develops.
Profile Image for Myrlita Clark.
467 reviews10 followers
July 23, 2021
This book was an awesome read I loved the suspense
164 reviews
August 1, 2021
Something different

Ms. Iris is a shoe in for me. As soon as I see her work I always purchase. This was still great writing and a very interesting and engaging story but not my favorite. I loved the enlightenment and the pride. The suspense story line and support of family and friends. I just missed the romance. I didn't know this was the direction cause I just automatically purchase her books but I kept reading with when is it going to happen and it never did. Congrats for pursuing complete suspense thriller genre
Profile Image for Nicole.
447 reviews1 follower
October 5, 2024
3.25 ⭐️⭐️⭐️ .25 stars! This story follows Nate Reigns who is a former lawyer turned detective in the Major Crimes Division. Nate’s best friend, Alex Burnett was a prosecuting attorney and he was found dead in his home. The police are labeling it as a suicide and Nate doesn’t believe it and feels that Alex was murdered. was found murdered.

Nate is the lead detective on Alex’s case and is determined to find out what happened to his friend and why. As Nate gets deeper into the investigation, he starts to see that the death of his friend might affect a lot more lives than he thought and that not everyone is what they seem to be.

This story had a lot of moving parts and lot of characters which caused me some confusion. It was hard for me to determine who was who at times. Overall, I enjoyed the author’s writing and the plot really interested me. If you are into crime thrillers and you like stories with a lot of characters, then you will enjoy this book.
9 reviews
February 23, 2025
Must read

This book is well penned. It was good to see characters from the previous books make an entry in this book. The suspense from the beginning to the last page will have you turning each page with an expectation of what’s next.
Profile Image for JigsawGirl.
4,154 reviews
December 13, 2024
Suspense? Thriller? Both? I don't know, and I don't care. What I can say is that I was so intrigued and engaged in this book that I did not want to stop reading.

There is a mystery that Nate Reigns needs to solve. As he works to bring justice for his best friend's death, he has to peel back layer after layer of secrets. At the same time, he has to determine who he can trust.

The story delves into thought-provoking themes of social injustice, racism, and the widespread influence of private prisons and government corruption. I have to admit that some of the content was difficult to read, especially considering the current state of affairs. The garage scene made my heart hurt.

The descriptions were so vivid and detailed that I felt like I stepped directly into a world of intelligence gathering, covert operations, action and danger.

I loved that Phire, L.T., Chief Williams, and the Williams brothers appeared in this book. It appears that almost nothing is quite what it appears to be on the surface. This only served to heighten the level of suspense for me.

The storytelling was so compelling that it did not bother me when the operation was not 100% resolved. It only served to make me want more. I would recommend this book for anyone who enjoys suspenseful, thrilling tales that keep you on your toes and keeps you thinking.
Profile Image for Dawn Reeves.
11 reviews1 follower
August 24, 2021
He Reigns
Reviewed in the United States on August 23, 2021
Imagine being mentored by a man who was like a brother and his life is taken in one of the most heinous ways. The victim, a Commonwealth Attorney, you a police detective, and so begins the Aftermath. Overcome with grief, coupled with the need to solve his friend's murder, Nate Reigns sets off on a mission. Thwarted at every turn both locally and nationally, he was not prepared for the findings.

The story, a true murder-mystery, spirals from the past to the present and highlights old and contemporary ideologies. The author's use of imagery provided the reader with a vivid picture of people and places. The dialogue between the characters was realistic and at times offered a touch of humor.
There are many characters and each played an important part of the story being told; each provided a well-rounded connection to the main character. This is a fast-paced and very entertaining novel which had the reader seriously considering our leaders of today of the many possibilities.

The Aftermath highlights a familial struggle and the need to serve justice. It emphasizes how negatives lead to positives through faith and devotion to a cause. There is more to this saga and I anxiously await answers to some lingering questions.
Profile Image for Beverly.
768 reviews7 followers
May 15, 2023
OMG😳👀👀

Okay I don’t know what to say other than I enjoyed the heck out of this book! Now here is my problem when I began reading this book, I thought Nate and the Reigns family were some new characters however as this amazing story started to unfold and I ran into L.T. and Phire, from the marvelous “Gents and Gems series. Charlotte Reigns about took me out😂😂
I was like well alright Mzz Charlotte 😂. This made me feel like I might have missed a book somewhere😔.

As I read in a review of this book,it is not what I would call a romantic suspense action story by any means.
This book definitely had me thinking about all the craziness going on in our country right now causing me to wonder if this was art imitating life or vise versa.


I will move on to the second book in this series but I’m anxious
To find out if there was a book I should have read prior to this one because like Nate said to his mom,
“I think one day you and I have to have a long discussion on your past life.” He chuckled. “What do you have to say for yourself?”
Mzz Charlotte got some explaining to do 😂 Clearly she is not someone you want to cross 💕💕💕💕💕
141 reviews2 followers
August 23, 2021
Speechless

So do you ever buy books on the release date and wait a month before you read it because you know that when you do, you are going to read it in one day.........oh, ....no.....just me, ok. This book was incredible. It made me cry, laugh, angry and resolute all at the same time. Impeccable storytelling, even if it's not totally fiction. The most haunting scene was the whipping. It brought back memories of my great grandmother telling us about slavery. At first it made me angry and full of hate, but a few breathes later, I remembered the whipping that Jesus took for us and my anger dissipated. Anxiously awaiting the next installment. Well done as always,Ms. Boiling. Well done!!
380 reviews1 follower
October 17, 2021
Prosecuting Attorney Alex Burnett was found dead in his apartment. Detective Nate Reigns is lead investigator on the case. He partners with Skylar Burnell from of the Richmond, VA US Attorney's office. The death was staged in attempt to smear Alex Burnett's reputation. Because Nate was a lawyer turned detective he was very thorough in his investigation. He realized there was a lot more to the death than appeared on the surface. Nate discovered there was an organization of white supremists called P.I.E that were working to put their people in charge across the US. They had people at all levels of the local and federal governement.

The Empress was a surprise. What will the Empress do with Egypt or does she already know her true identity? I cannot wait to see what happens next.
85 reviews1 follower
November 13, 2021
Spellbinding

I loved Just about every book you've written that I've found, you've kept me in Love, wishful thinking, heartbroken when one of the good one dies, thank you for keeping my attention in a book that can't be put down. The families you put together is awesome, true meaning pf the word rather blood or not. I laughed when they laugh and cried when they cried. May God keep Blessing and giving you Favor especially in your writing. Just like your books you keep surprising us keep up the good work, I'm Very Proud of you. ❤❤❤Love Always Ms. Barbara.
P. S. Forgive my mess ups.
Profile Image for Shanquelle.
137 reviews7 followers
September 27, 2024
First of all there were too many damn characters. I could not keep up. I had to start writing them down. The plot had way too much going on for me and some parts were hard for me to understand. A lot of the storyline also made me uncomfortable and angry sometimes.

Nate Reigns is a detective who used to be a lawyer (took me a while to get that) who’s best friend was recently murdered (made to look like a murder/suicide) and Nate is the lead detective to help find his killer.

Along the way Nate and his team uncovers a plot by a certain group who wants to take over the justice departments across the country.
Profile Image for Chelece Williams .
125 reviews4 followers
July 25, 2021
Iris Bolling is a genius for waiting a page turning suspense book.

I had to read this book two times because it is just that good! This book should be turned into film! I can’t recall one woman whose written a suspense thriller that ties everything that we are going through as a country. Let’s be clear this isn’t a romance novel but it is filled with love, support, friendship and family. Nate Reigns will reign forever with help of some of his friends (Lassiters). Press the one click button and read on. You won’t be disappointed with this murder suspense thriller.
1,015 reviews17 followers
July 28, 2021
Enthralling read

Who doesn’t enjoy a good conspiracy theory? So far, Nate, Skylar and to a lesser extent Reagan are great protagonists. I’m really intrigued by who Nate’s mother really is. Obviously a government operative but which one?. It’s actually amusing that Nate is trying to protect her from his dad’s infidelity while she probably knows.
As an aside, on the romance front, I could see Nate with Tylar. They seemed to have connected.
Anyway, I’m looking forward to the next novel.
Profile Image for Brenda.
117 reviews
August 6, 2021
MsLady

Ms Bolling I bow down to you your writing is undescribable. I think I can truly say this is one of your best books. I have read all of your books. I thought nothing could top the Heart’s series or the Lassiter stories but this one did. I normally don’t mysteries or who done it books but wow this one kept me on my toes it was definitely a page turner, without a lot of romance, just a big puzzle trying to figure out where the pieces go. I love Nate and I hope him and Skyler becomes more than friends. Can’t wait for the next book in the series.
Profile Image for T. Meaux.
Author 11 books47 followers
September 6, 2021
I need more!

This book grabbed my attention from the very first page and I have been invested ever since. I don't read a lot of books in this genre but this book has been one of the best I've read in a while. Reading this book was like watching a movie with so many twists and turns and wow moments. It's my first read from the author and I can't wait to see what's next. I have to see how this plays out. I'm alsowondering if we're going to find out more about Nate Reigns' family in the next book.
2,373 reviews
May 18, 2024
There were a lot of characters to keep track of in this book! And many of them had more than one name; I found that quite confusing.

The story was quite prescient with the rise of the White Supremacy groups around the world, and the worry that foreign interference is rampant in many democratic countries.

There are some strong characters in the story - Nate and Skylar for instance.

I did wonder if there was a prequel to this book as it seemed to assume the reader knew Nate’s background. And, the ending leaves the reader hanging! I hate that!
Profile Image for Antionette.
207 reviews3 followers
July 22, 2021
Blazing Suspenseful Page Turner

Author Iris Bolling has done an awesome job of spinning a story full of intrigue. Detective Nate Reigns is task with closing a murder cases ,and disappearance of young people. He does his job well and still finds time to remain true to his badge and city. Interesting villains and heroic characters leap from each scene and page from explosive beginning to smooth ending. This new suspense novel, a first for Bolling is 5⭐worthy. Bravo
Profile Image for Cherylbestlife.
476 reviews8 followers
July 23, 2021
Great start

A great start to a new series! How do you navigate when you don’t know friend from foe? This story also brings home not to put off love, but grab it with both hands. Tomorrow is not promised. This book has so many layers to it. I am loving Nate Reigns and his circle of friends. His mother Charlotte is no joke! Just like in her other books Ms. Bolling shows the strong bonds of family and friends.
Profile Image for 'The Book Queen'.
6,001 reviews110 followers
July 26, 2021
Nate can Reign

Wow, this was one heck of a ride. The story had so much going on that kept me on the edge of my seat. A few things to note. The females in this story were either a baddie or kick butt and take names types. Nate is my New Hero, and the suspense was heart stopping. Whew! Having Sapphire and LC was a nice little treat. I wonder who keeps helping them blowing up stuff? Hum!
325 reviews2 followers
July 26, 2021
This Nate Reigns saga is truly a masterpiece by Iris Bolling. There are so many twists and turns to this suspense thriller that the end will leave you with your jaws open. Now we have to wait months for the next installment to see where Nate and his partners will take us in this journey to get to the truth of his friend’s murder. Ms. Bolling did an outstanding job keeping us entrenched in this amazing novel.
Profile Image for Carson .
32 reviews
July 27, 2021
Not ready

I thought I was ready for The Aftermath. I even read the book before this again to better prepare myself, but y'all I wasn't ready. Iris Bolling has done it again. I could not put this book down. The surprises and twist will leave you on the edge of your seat. With familiar characters and answered questions, you wonder what more could happen. Can't wait for the next book.
18 reviews
August 2, 2021
Once again Iris Bolling doesn't fail to hold your interest. There are never any dull moments in her books. This was not a romance but it was still great. It is more a suspense thriller. I think, these are the characters from Pendleton Rule, ( have to check). You will be trying to determine whose good and whose bad, whose in charge and who is not all the way to the end. The characters and their ideology and beliefs reflect things that are going on in the country currently. Food for thought.
Profile Image for Peggy Smith.
Author 86 books9 followers
August 4, 2021
Stupendous

To those who love to read a great book, do not, I repeat do not pass this one by. My goodness, The Aftermath will take you on a rollercoaster ride. The only thing being, this ride is unfolding right in front of the reader faces in real time. I love Detective Reigns and Skylar. Sapphire is in a league on her own. I'll repeat what I said earlier, do not pass The Aftermath by or you will be sorry. Ms. Bollin, three words, you go girl.
3 reviews
November 29, 2021
Educational awareness added to the fight for Americans

Loved it. Fast pace action. Informative. It is also , sad to say ,
believable.
Relevant to the times and perhaps minds of some insecure Americans.. Inspirational to those fighting the battle of ignorance, greed, fear and self hate.
Stay vigilant!! America is still a dream for people of color to obtain justice and equal rights as humans or citizens.
Profile Image for Pamelon.
927 reviews17 followers
February 11, 2022
Non stop intrigue!!! Mind blowing ❤❤❤❤❤

Real life is happening in the Aftermath!! This book and Iris Bolling has me on lockdown with Nate, Skylar, Saphire, L.T., Tony and Charlotte !! Man, this book is totally mind blowing. Read this book. You'll love it! Read News With Curves, next The Aftermath, then The Society Of Intellectual Beings ! No spoilers Get ready for it!!👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾
Displaying 1 - 30 of 107 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.