Real Danger

West Coast Forensics #2

by Elle Keaton

How can one man be so incredibly frustrating but so sexy at the same time?
Ryder knows two things. Tragedy can strike at any moment so you have to hold tightly to the gifts life gives you. And, Shay is one of those gifts. To Ryder their fifteen-year age difference is nothing, Shay is the man he wants. Now he just needs an opportunity to plead his case with the sexy lawyer.

He gets his chance when Shay asks him to assist on a case involving a missing person, but the investigation quickly turns perilous. A stomach-churning rollercoaster ride of what the hell is going on, puts both men in danger—but from whom?

Will the two get their chance at love, or will a brutal criminal tear the future from their grasp?

age difference, thriller, Criminal Minds meets Rockford Files, tragic past, medium+ heat, reluctant lover, persistent courtship 4tw.

Real Danger, second in the West Coast Forensics series is a dual POV, age-gap, m/m romantic suspense following Shay and Ryder as they fight for their HEA.

Genres: Mystery, M M Romance, Romance, Contemporary, Crime, Suspense, Audiobook

266 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 28, 2021

About the author

Elle Keaton is a writer, avid reader, and amateur cat-wrangler. Her love of romance novels has led her to a life of creating her own happy ever afters. She is the author of the best selling series' Shielded Hearts and Veiled Intentions. Keaton hails from the Pacific Northwest, where she lives with her husband and cats.

Reviews

[Carol · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ryder was a fun and lively character that just wouldn't take no for an answer. Shay thought of every excuse under the sun to not start any type of relationship with Ryder, mainly using the 15-year age difference as the main reason. Ryder refused to listen to him. Not only is this eventually a good love story, but it's also a pretty good mystery. I never guessed what was happening and it had a good resolve and a surprise in the end. The end of Ryder and Shays's story had a wonderful surprise also. I really have enjoyed Elle Keaton's series even though what story belongs with which series can be a bit confusing. I finally just gave up trying to sort it and bought them all. Problem solved.... Happy Camper! The characters are realistic and are all so engaging that you can't wait to see them visiting in the other books.

[Kaity · Rating 3 out of 5]

3-3.5 stars

Solid book, when the synopsis brought up “Criminal Minds” to compare the book to it was a quick one click! Haha

I loved the mystery aspect of the book, the romance was alright left some to be desired, could probably have enjoyed it more if i read the other books before but this book can be read on its own.

Shay’s complaint about the age gap was annoying, and took longer than I would have liked for him to stop bringing it up. I really like Ryders character!

I’m glad I picked this up, I was looking forward to book three, but I decided this one first. Now to book 3!

[Ninni · Rating 4 out of 5]

This couple have great chemistry and I've been sooo keen on reading this one. And as always when I hype something I almost get nervous that it won't deliver.... But luckily this one did. No drama - just Shay being stubborn about the age difference. I've said it before but this author's books are like a comfort read. I get a mystery and likable MC's. There's some angst but no cringy drama. 4 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
And, good narration 💙

[Jay · Rating 5 out of 5]

Elle Keaton once again takes us back to Piedras, the setting for her Veiled Intentions (Hamarsson And Dempsey) series, with Real Danger, the second in her spinoff West Coast Forensics series. West Coast Forensics began with suspense and romance in Real Trouble and continues that theme with Real Danger. All these captivating liaisons and enthralling mysteries from the combined collections intertwine but can be read as standalones.

Twenty something Ryder Mann is pining over the seemingly unattainable forty something Shay Delacombe. The flirtatious and sharky Ryder is pulling out all the stops while trying not to cross a line that will scare the obstinate and ridged Shay away for good. Ryder sees the potential they could have but Shay only sees their age difference and the fact that Ryder is Niall’s (from the Veiled Intentions series) co-worker.

I adore and feel deeply for Ryder. His desire for the older man is eating him up. Each rejection he encounters feels like a physical blow, especially since we know that Shay harbors similar feelings for Ryder. Ryder’s tenacity is admirable and ultimately the solution. On the flipside, there is deep sorrow, felt like a stab to the heart, as Shay continually denies himself what is staring him right in the face. Ryder and Shay have so much to offer the other if a connection can be secured.

Focusing on the budding romance, the text message exchange Ryder uses to work on Shay’s defenses is brilliant. Not only does this keep the lines of communication open, it provides a modicum of security to speak their minds while hidden behind a screen. The humor, snark, and honesty they exchange during these sessions provides a backdrop for a perfect match.

Unlike the other stories related to these entwined series, Real Danger begins with a passionate romance in the making that inadvertently stumbles upon a series of intense circumstances and an intriguing mystery stemming from a simple missing person case. When events turn deadly, Ryder and Shay must rely on each other and their friends to take down the malicious preparators.

The mystery component points out the seedier side of society with missing young women, drugs, vicious attacks, a plethora of suspects, and an inept police presence. The motive behind the mystery is a bit peculiar and only furthers the disgusting side of humanity. At times it is difficult to see where the events are leading but, at the end of the day, or conclusion of the mystery, the perpetrators get what is their due and the victims receive vengeance.

The duality of romance and mystery in Real Danger provides the perfect combination of events to grab your attention, keeping you on the edge of your seat. One moment you are swooning over Ryder’s flirtatious activities and Shay’s weaking defenses, and then suddenly you are caught up in gripping and often lethal events behind the investigation.

[Jewel · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this one! I've been looking forward to Ryder & Shay getting their happy. I think my favorite bits were the text message convos at the beginning of each chapter. Overall, a good story with an on point message and a feel good ending.

[George · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25 Stars

Stick With It!!

The first section of Elle Keatons new gay mystery romance novel, Real Danger, the second volume in her ‘West Coast Forensics’ series, rapidly shifts between time and place and introduces so many characters that it’s hard to keep track of them all - much less of their relationships to one another. A cast of characters or family tree would certainly have helped.

While Real Danger is unquestionably a stand alone novel, reading the first book in the series, Real Trouble, might have made this one easier to follow.

The tension and angst between the Real Danger protagonists is extreme. Ryder Mann, a 27-year old investigator with West Coast Forensics (WCF), has become a courier of sorts shuttling documents from his home in Berkeley to a WCF colleague, Niall Hamarsson, working on Piedras Island.

Niall is the half brother and good friend of Shay Delacombe, a 42-year old defense attorney on Piedras Island. Niall prevails on Shay to let Ryder stay with him rather than having to find a hotel every time he comes to the island.

Shay, not one to commit to a relationship (more of a one-night stand sort of guy), is instantly taken by Ryder but insists both to himself and to Ryder that a relationship could never work - because of their age difference. Of course, Ryder disagrees.

The texting Q&As between Ryder and Shay that begins most chapters, is a highlight of the story as their relationship, of course, does develop.

But the real drama of the story - the abduction of young, primarily Indigenous tribal women from the area - is what truly brings this novel to life.

It’s nothing but heart pounding action as Ryder and Shay, along with Niall’s partner, Piedras Island’s Sheriff Mat Dempsey; Piedras Island’s Fire Department Chief, Devon Flynn; Flynn’s nephew, Brennan; Brennan’s “roommate”, David Atkins; Brennan’s “girlfriend”, Debbie Sampson; Delores Sam, founding attorney of the Tribal Community Outreach Office; multiple FBI agents; and Shay’s charmingly eccentric Great-great-aunt Claribel, race to uncover the mystery of Debbie Sampson’s disappearance and put an end to the abduction of young women along the aptly named, “Highway of Tears”.

The suspense created by Keaton in the last third of this novel makes the entire story worthwhile.

So I repeat - Stick with it. You’ll be glad you did. I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review.

[Veronica · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.

Real Danger gives us Shay and Ryder’s story. I’ve been looking forward to learning more about Ryder and the story starts from his point of view and we learned about his past and that was enough to hook me in. Some of the start with a text message conversation instigated by Ryder and I loved the back and forth between the men. It was fun. Ryder is 15 years Shay’s junior and although he is interested in Ryder, he won’t pursue him but that doesn’t stop Ryder and a friendship develops.

While visiting Shay on Piedras Island, Ryder joins Shay when he goes to the mainland to investigate the disappearance of a teenage girl. It wasn’t long before the questions they are asking leads to danger. It becomes clear someone is trying to harm them if not kill them. The mystery and danger in this story were so well done and I loved that it wasn’t obvious what was going on. As a reader I got to learn what was going on as Shay and Ryder did which ment unexpected surprises. Shay and Ryder’s live or death situations pulls them closer together. and the romance side of the story blends seamlessly with the investigation into the missing teen.

Real Danger is just the kind of story I love. Mystery, crime, danger, tension and romance with two intelligent and sexy characters, all at a fast pace. I had a great time reading Real Danger. This is another great story from Elle Keaton.

[Relly · Rating 4 out of 5]

Reread 2023

Still enjoyable on the re-read. I love Ryder and his personality
The use of the text messages at the start of each chapter helped to get to know the two and add a little humor.

4 Stars

Great addition to the series.

I loved Ryder, with his upbeat outlook. He had a terrible start to life and it really could have determined his life going forward but he didn't let it. It helped shape what he did with his life but it never pulled him down. I adored his pursuit of Shay. The constant text exchange was nice to read and gave him a chance at getting to know the guy.

Shay was a harder nut to crack, but he was also a good character. I liked that he owned his mistakes of youth. He knew he wasn't the nicest person back then and he admitted it and accepted it and tried to be the better person. He went out of his way to help his friend.

I liked the storyline, it felt like the author returned to what works for them, it's not as involved as the accidental roots series but it worked and I really enjoyed seeing some of the characters from there.

I really like how this authors series intertwined and characters from other series appear throughout. I will admit to needing to catch up on one of the series and while it intertwines I knew I had maybe missed some extra information, I never felt like I couldn't follow along.

*** Arc provided by GRR. this is my honest and voluntary review ***

[Josie · Rating 2 out of 5]

A Joyfully Jay review.

2.5⭐️

Within moments of meeting Ryder Mann, Shay Delacombe knows he’s in trouble. Having the brilliant and attractive Ryder stay with him for a few days as a favor to his half-brother, Niall, seemed harmless enough, but Shay didn’t expect to be more interested in the witty and irrepressibly flirtatious Ryder than he has been for anybody in longer than he can remember—a feeling that only grows as Ryder messages him over the following ten months. When Shay moved his law practice from Seattle to Piedras to keep an eye on his great-great aunt, a big part of him felt like he was closing a chapter in his life and sailing into the waters of middle age comfortably single. So as attracted as Shay is to Ryder, between their 15-year age gap, Shay’s toxic upbringing, his aversion to committed relationships, and the fact they live hundreds of miles apart, anything between them is a no go. Yet, no matter how often Shay reminds himself he can’t even risk friendship with Ryder, he can’t seem to stop himself from always responding to the man’s messages, calls, and charm.

For Ryder, the difference in their ages is not an issue, especially considering how compatible they are and the fact that Shay can’t hide his attraction to him. Having his mother head out for dinner with a friend and never return, Ryder believes in seizing the day and doesn’t understand Shay’s hang-up on “just a number.” So he settles in for the long game of sneakily building a friendship under the guise of random texts and dropping in for visits when delivering documents to his coworker, Niall. Unfortunately, while Shay always responds and clearly enjoys his visits, Ryder can’t find a way out of the kid zone.

When Shay’s friend is concerned about the possible disappearance of his nephew’s girlfriend and asks Shay to look into the situation and represent his nephew if necessary, Shay decides to take Ryder up on his offer to help, even while chastising himself for spending more time with him. As what should have been a few simple interviews turns into escalating danger, Shay worries that the missing teenager may be in real danger, along with his heart.

"Real Danger" is the second book in the West Coast Forensics series and is a quick-paced, though oddly boring, romantic suspense with likable leads and an interesting missing persons plot. Although Ryder and Shay are in the previous book, their introduction to one another occurs in "Real Danger". Ryder appears to be a forensic computer analyst for West Coast Forensics who quickly fell into lust with Shay when he crashed at Shay’s rental home, and despite Shay harping on their age difference, he continues to engage with Ryder, building a friendship with the younger man whether he admits it or not. While frustrated by Shay’s focus on their ages and his inability to learn more about Shay’s dating life, every text, email, etc. only convinces Ryder that they could be so good together. Keaton does a decent job threading the needle between understandable doggedness and an inability to take no for an answer. The almost constant flirtation and propositioning of Shay is interspersed with Ryder being thoughtful, funny, or insightful.

Shay doesn’t think he’s a good guy or “wired for a proper relationship” because his parents were a mess, he was a mean-spirited asshole when he was younger, and he has never invested anything of himself in his short relationships; in Shay’s opinion, Ryder can do so much better, but apparently can’t see it. For me, there’s a disconnect between how terrible Shay believes himself to be versus what is presented; I get that the mental landscape for how people see/feel about themselves isn’t always an accurate representation of who they are, but as Shay is presented in this book, it was hard for me to buy into Shay’s conviction. The text does a fine job stating the why and how for Shay’s level of self-disgust, but I didn’t feel it. As West Coast Forensics is a spinoff of the Veiled Intentions trilogy (previously Hamarsson & Dempsey) that follows Niall, maybe all the in-depth characterization/ discussions about Shay are done during his appearances there, especially given the antagonistic history hinted at between him and Niall compared to their apparently newly genial relationship.

Conversely, I can totally believe Shay is arrogant given his inability to see Ryder as an adult who knows his own mind, even going so far as to translate Ryder’s belief that Shay’s a good guy into some kind of childish hero-worship: “Even so, Shay wasn’t who Ryder thought he was. He wasn’t Superman…” something Ryder never says or even intimates. While Ryder freely expresses his interest in Shay, to me it doesn’t come across as star-struck. Persistent? Yes. Possibly overeager/borderline pushy? YMMV. But placing Shay on a pedestal like Ryder’s some guileless baby gay meeting his first big, bad daddy? Not so much. However, Shay won’t have a conversation with Ryder about anything other than their ages so that’s all Ryder sees as an obstacle, and when they do make progress towards coupledom, the third act high-stakes kick in. Since Shay’s adamant ‘we can’t date’/I’m the worst and Ryder’s ‘but why tho???’ dance takes place mostly during their investigation, the pacing doesn’t get too bogged down.

The case is interesting as it centers around the very real issue of society’s apathy when dealing with missing indigenous females, and for the most part, Keaton incorporates the social commentary well. Given the nature of the topic, the prose/inner monologues can be a bit awkward and in your face, but not egregiously so, and the missing person, Debbie, is actually a decently fleshed out and cool character rather than just a plot point. There are a few issues I had with the continuity that did pull me out of the story, such as an introduction of threatening letters Ryder finds that keep getting mentioned, but the event didn’t happen. In the previous chapter, Shay gets a threatening email with some weird pseudo-religious creeper talk about forgiveness and mentions of a box of mail Shay picked up from his old office to seed the letter reveal…but none of it goes anywhere. I actually went back to check "Real Danger" to make sure it wasn’t something from that book. There’s also things like evidence being found in one location then later in another, odd actions/behaviors etc. However, my copy is an ARC and as the blurb is now different, the Shay being stalked storyline and other inconsistencies may have been resolved.

Also certain characters’ behaviors regarding Debbie’s continued disappearance make no sense given later revelations. Debbie 1) goes missing for almost a week by the end and 2) has a tracker on her person they could monitor, but the signal dies. This should have worried them, so saying ABSOLUTELY nothing until a white guy gets into trouble is…a choice. The narrative talks a lot about the disposability of young women, particularly those from marginalized groups, so it’s tragically ironic that the author’s most successful illustration of this is how people with valuable information about Debbie and a clear indication she was probably in danger decide to say nothing. Then for one of them to remark about it being great that they caught the bad guy so he can be out…oh and also not able to hurt girls anymore.

If you read "Real Trouble" and enjoyed the angst between the MCs, be forewarned that the tone of the two books is a bit different. "Real Danger" is angsty in its own way, just instead of it coming from the MCs, it’s mostly the nature of the missing person’s case. For all Shay’s ‘I’m too terrible to love’ thoughts, the relationship between Ryder and Shay is pretty light-hearted, and while I personally couldn’t engage with the story and feel the mystery doesn’t quite stick the landing, "Real Danger" is a solid romantic suspense I could see others really enjoying.

[tara · Rating 4 out of 5]

i'm going to say i'm so glad i didnt give it up! this was really really goooood!!

i absolutely love Shay and Ryder. their chemistry was really great and they worked so well together. and the text messages at the start, they were so cute, it was so nice to read them!

plot and mystery wise? i am wowed! i was nervous, worried and wondering. there was an important message through it all.

there was some parts i was confused about, and past events that happened some idk where, (not book1 i think not), but otherwise it was a great read.

[Axalia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ryder et Shay avec un Culomètre à 🍑🍆

J'ai l'impression de redire les mêmes choses à chaque livre de cette autrice, mais vraiment, elle écrit ses romances de façon si particulière qu'à chaque fois, c'est un régal ! C'est brut et fort, j'adore !

Ryder Mann sait ce qu'il veut dans la vie et ce qu'il veut, c'est Shay Delacombe. Sauf que Shay a bien décidé à se trouver toutes les excuses pour ne pas sortir avec lui, à commencer par les 15 ans de différences d'âge. Sauf qu'ils vont devoir faire équipe quand plusieurs jeunes filles semblent disparaitre sans que les autorités fassent quelque chose...

L'autrice sait parfaitement gérer la romance et le suspense dans ses enquêtes, c'est toujours aussi agréable à lire. J'attendais la romance de Shay et Rider, qui se profilait depuis quelques tomes déjà.
Comme d'habitude, leur histoire n'est pas le centre du roman, mais elle prend la place parfaite pour qu'on reste focus dessus. Ils se tournent autour (enfin surtout Ryder) et on sait qu'ils finiront par craquer, on ne sait juste pas quand.

Et, au milieu, ils doivent s'occuper de la disparition d'une jeune fille qui parait être liée à Shay par son métier d'avocat de la défense et de ses liens avec l'association qui aide les tribus à faire valoir leur droit. Plus ils creusent, plus l'enquête se révèlent être plus qu'une simple fugue, mais quelque chose de beaucoup plus gros. Et, franchement, je ne m'imaginais pas à quel point !

Encore une fois, c'est une romance vraiment réussie de la part d'une autrice que j'aime de plus en plus et j'ai hâte de découvrir le tome 3 sur Devon Flynn, le chef des pompiers de la ville (et bordel que le résumé me donne beaucoup trop envie) !!!!

[Mari Cardenas · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 Stars

Real Danger is the second book in the West Coast Forensics series, while you could benefit from having read the previous book in the series and the Hamarsson and Dempsey series, it can be read as a standalone.

I absolutely loved Ryder. I felt so bad for him and everything he's gone through since losing his mother, but I was also impressed by how resilient he was, and how strong and patient, as well. I liked Shay, I've been intrigued by him ever since we met him in the previous books. However, I was fed up by how he kept bringing up the age gap between Ryder and him over and over and using it as an excuse to keep Ryder at arm's length. Don't get me wrong, I really liked them together, but because of Shay it took forever and a day to actually see their relationship come to fruition. 

The case was fantastic and unpredictable. The twists and turns were nothing short of brilliant, and out of all the ones we've seen throughout, it was the one that I was more impressed with. I can't recommend this book and this series and the one it spin-offs enough. 

Michael Dean did a great job with the narration, he brought not only the characters, but the story to life for me, and I thoroughly enjoyed it from beginning to end.

[Sammy Higgins · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was so looking forward to Shay's story after meeting him in the Conspiracy Theory series. It was great finally learning more about him and I loved Ryder for him. He needed to loosen up a bit and for Ryder to prove to Shay that he was worthy of being loved.

Shay is a semi retired defence attorney and also Niall's half brother. I loved their interactions together, they bicker and tormented each other like proper brother now. Shay is so caring, he left his old practice so he could look after his great-aunt Claribel. She is a hoot, she's always getting into trouble, she's like a rebellious teenager.

Ryder is just so sweet. He has been trying to get Shay to date him for nearly a year, I adored him and that he didn't give up. He went through something very sad when he was a child. That spurred him on in wanting to help other and he does it with his whole heart.

The mystery in this book is so well done, it kept me guessing right to when it all came to light. Shay investigates something for Devon the fire chief. A girl called Debbie has gone missing and he is worried about his nephew Brennan, he was dating her and the police have questioned him about it. So Shay, along with Ryder go to investigate. They both have no idea what they are getting themselves in for. They slowly unravel the situation one clue at a time. They worked together so well doing their investigating and that really helped to shoe each other their amazing qualities. As things ramp up, things start to get dangerous and the big situation at the end has be on tenter hooks. I would not of guessed who was behind everything. I had a clue, but I was so wrong about Debbie, Brennan, and David"s involvement.

Shay really used the age difference to let Ryder down, but of course that didn't put him off. He could see all the good in Shay, even if Shay couldn't himself. They slowly open up to each other and slowly they get to a point where they both can't hold back anymore. A few things happen for the to realise this though. There is amazing hot tub sex and I loved their first time together. They are just so sweet together and bring the best out in each other.

It was great catching up with all the old faces, especially Mat and Naill. I love seeing how much those to have grown, it showed Shay that he also couldn't gain that sort of happiness. There is some great secondary characters and I can't wait for Devons story next. I loved the ending, that moment of the beach so magical. It is just an amazing read, which I couldn't put down. I ended up reading it in one go. Can't wait to see the two remaining guys to get their happy ending too!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[ButtonsMom2003 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Audiobook Review:
Overall – 5
Performance – 5
Story – 5

Fantastic story, great audio performance!

Once again, Michael Dean has done a fantastic job performing words that Elle Keaton has written. I loved how he interpreted this fantastic story. I read this book recently and yet I was totally captivated all over again when I listened to the audiobook.

Below is what I wrote after reading the ebook; I can’t think of anything more to say other than the comments I made about Michael Dean’s performance.

Real Danger has all of the things that I’ve come to expect in Elle Keaton’s romantic suspense stories: a great romance between two hot guys, excitement, danger and murder.

Ryder is about 15 years younger than Shay but he knows what he wants and he’s been in love with Shay for quite a while now. He’s been wearing Shay down bit-by-bit over the last several months with unexpected visits and texting and teasing.

Shay doesn’t do relationships and he especially doesn’t do them with guys 15 years younger than him. He’s nearly retired from his law practice in Seattle and is enjoying spending his time on Piedras. But when a friend asks him for help, he can’t turn him down. As Ryder happens to be visiting when the request comes in, Shay brings him along while he investigates.

Things don’t go quite as expected and Shay and Ryder end up in real danger – they just don’t know who is after them. Their investigation leads to things they didn’t expect and Shay ends up in peril. Ryder’s intuition tells him that something is wrong and he’s determined to save Shay.

Like all of Elle’s romantic suspense books, Real Danger kept me on the edge of my seat for nearly the entire story. When they aren’t investigating or being chased, Ryder manages to wear Shay down and they have some quality time between the sheets and in a hot tub. 😊

I really can’t say enough good things about this story; Elle Keaton remains one of my favorite MM romantic suspense writers. Fans of her Veiled Intentions and Shielded Hearts series will enjoy seeing familiar characters in this book and series but you don’t need to have read the earlier series enjoy this one. I was so happy to learn that the next book in the West Coast Forensics series, Real Risk, will be releasing in late April 2022; I can’t wait!!

A complimentary copy of this audiobook was provided to me at my request but my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author and/or narrator.

[Gabbi Grey · Rating 5 out of 5]

When Ryder gets his way (an audio review)

I enjoyed watching Ryder and Shay dance around each other in the first West Coast Forensics book. Of course I knew these two would wind up together. And rightly so. There’s the fifteen-year age gap. Ryder thinks nothing of this, but Shay’s obsessed with it. Shay has also been a defense attorney for the past however many years until retuning to the island to watch out for his great great aunt (who is a hoot), and to reassess his life choices. He’s too young to retire, but he’s also tired of defending those who are guilty.

When he and Shay are approached by someone to help find out what happened to a missing young woman, they just sort of go along with it. Ryder has more investigative skills, but Shay knows how to read people and how to ask the right questions. Things heat up and it becomes clear someone doesn’t want them solving the mystery of the disappearance.

I liked how the author wove in the Highway of Tears up here in Canada. Native women (and other women) have gone missing along this highway for years without any explanation. In both the States and Canada, disappearances and murders of Indigenous woman are far less likely to be investigated and solved. This is a gaping wound that needs to be addressed. This book helps in that forward momentum, bringing the issue to the fore.

Shay and Ryder are in more danger than they think and their lives are on the line. I don’t want to give away too much, but I enjoyed the suspense in this book. Ms. Keaton always does a good job with that. I got my happy ending and I’m thrilled there’s another book to come.

I’ll say Michael Dean gave another stellar performance and I highly recommend both the book and the series.

[Vicki · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars. I adored Ryder with all his snark, sass and sunshine along with his absolute desire to make Shay his. He lets the ever so slightly grumpy Shay know from the very beginning what his feelings are for him. He gently nudges Shay along without being pushy or overbearing or exploiting boundaries. Shay has always felt the chemistry between them but deluded himself into thinking love wasn’t for him. It takes some time but the chemistry between Shay and Ryder finally ignites and it sets them on the path to their well deserved HEA.
The romance element of the plot is perfectly balanced with the mystery element and wow, did that have some twists and turns that I didn’t predict.
Overall a very interesting and engaging read with a great cast of characters, a dash of angst - mystery related not romance related - and an ending that made me feel so very happy. I look forward to more in this series.

[Reed · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’m reviewing the audio edition. I feel this is really a fun age gap story. The back and forth between them and their texting made me laugh. The questioning of favorites was entertaining. There is a part that is mostly to do with the disappearance of a girl believed to be kidnapped. That also has a twist that changes the stereotype guy savior. I really like the characters. Ryder is very special and determined. Shay running from any relationship with Ryder is cute. The resolution to all the issues held my attention till the end. Michael Dean’s narration made these characters come to life. He fit so well with these characters.

[Diane Dannenfeldt · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have to say, I'm so glad Shay has finally settled down. What got on my nerves is the constant "I'm too old for you" in it's many forms. I enjoyed the mystery & really didn't have a clue what was going on so I felt just like they did. I loved the text messages at the beginning of each chapters where Ryder would ask a question, like what is your favorite movie etc. What I also really liked is Shay didn't play games, once he dropped his walls, they stayed dropped. I would have liked to seen some type of closer regarding Ryder's mom

[Janet Hunt · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved everything about the story!! I really loved the mystery and suspense in the story! The text messages were a fantastic addition to the story. Ryder was full of snark, sass and will make you smile! Shay is grumpy to Ryder’s sunshiny personality! Their connection and chemistry was explosive. The secondary characters are a great addition to the story and add depth and complexity to the story. I loved that we got a little more of Niall and Mat from the Veiled Intentions and a few characters like Adam Klay from the Shielded Hearts series plus Jude and Cullen! The story hooked be from the beginning and didn’t let go until the end!! It was well written, highly recommend!! I’m voluntarily leaving a review form an advanced copy that I received. My reviews are solely based on my thoughts and opinions.

[Badh · Rating 3 out of 5]

I'm giving this a 3.5 *. I enjoyed the story, but sometimes Shay and Ryder seemed a little interchangeable in the beginning. Of course, that may just be me.

I enjoyed the story, overall, but I did feel like the overall storyline could've used a little tightening.

[Antisocial Recluse · Rating 4 out of 5]

More suspense

Way more suspense than romance and not a lot of steam. The text exchanges were cute but there was no romance, few personal exchanges and little development until late in the story. I’d recommend reading Niall & Mat’s series if you want stronger characterization for Shay.

[Christina Sturgill · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rating: 4/5 🌟
Spice: 2.5/5 🌶️
Characters: Ryder and Shay

[Claudia · Rating 4 out of 5]

Oh this was fun. Shae is so focused on age that he does not see what is right in front of him.
Thankfully Ryder is a grown-up ;-)

loved it

[AshPenny37 · Rating 4 out of 5]

The second outing in the West Coast Forensics series. This time WCF's investigator, Ryder, is drawn to Shay, Piedras Island inhabitant and defence lawyer. It does mostly work as a standalone, because there's a fair bit of info dumping at the beginning with a who's who on the island, etc. Anyone who's read the other books in this and the previous series will already be familiar with all the players. Either way, stay with it...it's worth it!

Once we get into both the mystery (a really intriguing investigation into the disappearance of a young woman is linked to disturbing criminal activity) and the romance (a lovely age gap, grumpy/sunshine pairing) Real Danger is a very entertaining and well-written read. The pacing picks up, the MCs navigate the push/pull of their attraction and why they should/shouldn't get involved with each other. Shay and Ryder do, of course, give in to the chemistry between them. The way they get to know each other is great. I especially like the chapter header text messages between the men...so sweet!

Shay and Ryder's story is a fine addition to the series - it's 4* from me.

An ARC was provided by GRR. This is my honest review.

[Kat · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 Huge Stars
Dang, this book was so excellent! Talk about getting pulled in from the first page. I knew I was in for a special treat when I lost track of time, and putting down the novel was almost painful. The second story of the West Coast Forensic Series was a powerful and suspenseful mystery. It was action-packed from the start and featured two unforgettable MCs. Anyone can read this heart-pumping novel as a stand-alone. However, the first in the series introduces us to Ryder and Shay.
This friends-to-lovers trope features a jaded older lawyer who is having difficulty justifying why he should never start a relationship with Ryder. Shay may only be in his early forties, but he harbors a soul of a grumpy geriatric. Ryder, in total contrast, is younger, an absolute light, and radiates positivity. Despite his youthful look and demeanor, the younger man is very mature and knows what he wants in life. Ryder wants Shay and works at chipping away the cranky attorney’s walls.
What is so refreshing about Ryder is that even though he suffered a huge loss when he was young, he never falters in building a meaningful life for himself. Rather than dwelling on sorrow, it led to his path of being a forensic detective. Oh, how I love this man! Shay, I seriously wanted to shake numerous times. His past was sad, and it destroyed his inner self-worth. In defense of Shay, his family drama was ongoing, and it caused him to believe that happiness with a significant other is not going to find him.
The book’s tempo speeds up as danger explodes, and the imagery is so frightening. The story, though intense at times, was incredibly satisfying. I can’t recommend this novel enough!
I am looking forward to the next installment. Happy reading!
* * * Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure. A review wasn’t a requirement * * *

[Shirley · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is me, playing catch up… again. At least with the West Coast Forensics series, it’s fairly easy to read each book as a standalone. I will say that if you know some of the previously introduced characters and know a little bit about what’s been going on in Piedras and the unique dynamics between its residents, it does add to the experience.

My first reaction when I finished Real Danger was that Shay and Ryder were my favorite couple so far. I kind of expected to like Ryder from meeting him briefly before, but Shay kind of took me by surprise. He just seemed kind of distant and well… lawyer-ly. Yeah, I know that’s not a real word or a fair judgement, especially since it was clear that Ryder saw something in him that not many others did. I think the reason why I liked them together so much is that Ryder not only wore him down, but brought out another side of him.

As I’ve come to expect from this series, there was plenty of suspense, danger, heat and humor. There was also a found family connection that pretty much always wins me over.

Next up is Real Risk (which is where I started…) followed by Real Hazard (which I recently finished). For the record, Shay and Ryder are still my favorite couple in the series – but I may have a new favorite character, but you’ll have to wait until I review Real Hazard to find out who that is. 😉

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of Real Danger. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Bridget · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was very excited for this book. I feel like Elle Keaton does a great job of including characters from previous books without detracting too much from the main characters, so each new book has a nice bonus where we can catch up with the whole gang.

I knew that this book was age gap, and I was pleasantly surprised because it had an angle that I am not used to seeing. Ryder may have been younger, but he was assertive and knew what he wanted. I knew from prior books that Shay was older and a fancy lawyer, so I was expecting to see a totally different dynamic where Shay was the more dominant partner. I liked that they were equals.

I wasn’t a big fan of Shay’s whole “I can’t do relationships because of my screwed up childhood” schtick, especially in this universe where pretty much everyone had a screwed up childhood. Luckily he got over it pretty quickly. Ryder also has a difficult past, but managed to come out of it a ray of sunshine.

I would not recommend this book as a standalone because there are a lot of characters from prior books, but if you are a fan of Elle Keaton then you will like this book. It’s full of intelligent and witty/sarcastic characters, with lots of banter.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[HarriReadsRoMMance · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ryder is such a fun character and I absolutely enjoyed his antics. Shay, while an interesting man, got a little tedious when he just kept repeating he couldn’t be with Ryder because he was too young. There might be a significant age gap between them but Ryder was hardly green in the way of life. He is a smart, sassy and very competent and highly respected employee of West Coast Forensics and Shay did him a disservice a lot at the beginning. When Shay is asked to look into the disappearance of a young woman from an at-risk community, he is quick to help and Ryder offers his expertise in the search. The story takes a darker turn from there and I was intrigued and wanting answers just as desperately as they did. Through working together Shay finally got to see the side of Ryder everyone saw and finally his thoughts start to turn.

This was one of favourite of the series. I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.

[Tim · Rating 2 out of 5]

I found this tedious to read, to the point that I found myself putting it down to do something else over and over. The first third was filled with repeated "Shay's too old and contrary for Ryder and Ryder longs for Shay." The second third slowly starts parcelling out the mystery of the book, which wasn't really all that interesting, between all the suspects showed up for two pages, were all flat, and then disappeared. It was pretty obvious who was involved, so no suspense there with what was going on. The final third I forced myself to skim through because I was bored and wanted to finish and move on. I was disappointed in this, and it only gets two stars because some of the author's most memorable characters from prior books pop up here and there, and even that didn't save it for me. As Marie Konodo says, "If it doesn't bring you joy, you must let it go." I choose to let this series go.

[Suzun · Rating 1 out of 5]

Nah

There’s too much homework with this one. There’s an entire glossary of characters in the beginning so you know which other books characters come from. Like this series isn’t complete by itself, you need to have read all the other stuff first.

Mostly I was bored and annoyed before the first chapter was over. It’s very typical romance tropes and nothing interesting. It also seems like there is a lot of extra words so make it longer. It doesn’t hold my interest.