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Coyote

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Sammie Smith is desperate to escape the clutches of sex traffickers with the six teenage girls she rescued. When her mission goes awry, she’s forced to seek help from the most unlikely source, Maximiliano Maldonado, the drug lord she left five years ago. She’s going to need his power and protection to avoid being captured. But what happens when he turns the tables and seeks revenge on the only woman he has ever loved? Sammie can’t trust him, but can she trust the new guard, Carlos, to help her escape the man who stole her heart all those years ago?

Carlos Mendez, former Marine Raider turned private protection, lives in the shadows of his grief. Once career military, now medically discharged from Afghanistan, Carlos no longer values his life and accepts the riskiest assignments. Hired to guard the drug lord’s newest captive, he sees the same grief and guilt tearing her apart as it does him. Keeping track of her means diving into her inner thoughts and watching her nurturing ways. Her do-gooder actions stir something in him he thought was dead long ago. Can he steal her heart away as she has stolen his while helping her escape?

As Sammie and Carlos’ friendship grows into something more, the stakes become life and death. Maximiliano will stop at nothing to rekindle what he lost, even if it means hiding her deep in the confines of cartel life. Can Carlos rescue her without getting them both killed


Coyote is a single POV, action-packed standalone cartel, kidnapped, romantic suspense novel containing dark theme. Content warnings are available on the author's website.

360 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 26, 2022

2 people are currently reading
47 people want to read

About the author

Gigi Meier

19 books147 followers
GIGI MEIER retired from a thirty-year career in corporate America to write romance novels about strong female characters and their complicated, swoon-worthy men. She loves telling stories and figuring out why her characters do what they do. With heartbreaking angst, panty-dropping lust, and enviable love, her stories linger long after you close the book.

When GiGi is not eating over her laptop, she likes to spend time in the pool with her children, walk her furry babies, and film videos for Instagram. Whether working out with her trainer, attending a book club, or hosting a game night, she loves connecting with new people and making friends.

Learn more about GiGi:
www.GiGiMeier.com
www.instagram.com/authorgigimeier
https://www.facebook.com/groups/autho...
https://gigimeier.substack.com



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5 stars
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
Profile Image for Sarah Cudlipp.
197 reviews6 followers
September 9, 2022
The first words of Coyote immediately take you into the action and things never really slow down from there. I pretty much say on the edge of my seat for the entirety of the book. But there were at least some moments in between where I was able to catch my breath before the next major thing popped up. And, of course, there was the romance thrown in with the action to really keep me hooked. Every piece of this novel was placed perfectly together in a way that kept me from wanting to put it down. I’m pretty much all or nothing when it comes to reading a book. If I don’t love it, the chances are that I”m not going to finish it. And I’ve also become pretty good at not even picking up ones I’m not going to like.

So my track record of kick-ass books is pretty great. And this one was certainly a kick-ass book. It’s easy for me to give it 5 stars because I was impressed by everything. From start to finish I was so involved in what was happening. There were a couple of moments when I found myself actually gasping at what happened. And have you ever had a moment where you have to put the book down for a moment to absorb everything you just read? Either because it was so intense or crazy. Because I definitely had a few moments like that with this book and I have to say, I love those moments. Where you have to take a moment to think and process the situation you just read. I always think it’s impressive when an author can make you have those kinds of moments.

A badass female character leading the charge is always a favorite. And Sammie was the epitome of a badass. She started Coyote saving young girls. Sammie also didn’t hesitate to sacrifice herself for those girls right from the jump. She was willing to do whatever was necessary as long as it meant that her mom and those girls were going to be safe. Even when things looked bleak, Sammie still didn’t give up and was bound and determined to get herself out of the situation as well. Sammie’s bravery was incredible to read. But it was also inspiring because at the end of the day she was just an ordinary woman trying to do something for others. Which made her extraordinary in my eyes. And it kept me reading at a ridiculous pace because I just constantly needed to know what happened next.

As for Carlos, he surprised me. On more than one occasion. Every time I expected him to act one way, he did the opposite. And I love it when a character surprises me. Generally, I know before I start a book or as soon as I start, what two characters are going to get together. But the excitement comes from reading about how it all plays out. Reading and experiencing their relationship as it all unfolds. So the fact that Carlos kept me guessing when it came to his relationship with Sammie, was pretty cool. And also pretty impressive. He was a badass in his own right. But I liked that he did his best to help Sammie be strong and independent too. He didn’t try to make her think that she needed someone else to protect her. Instead, he did his best to help make sure she had the tools necessary to protect herself.

Gigi Meier was already on track to impress me with the storyline she presented. But her writing style and how she jumped into the action and kept it going were supremely impressive. I really enjoyed the way she wrote her characters and their journeys. But I loved that there was romance without it being too much or too heavy. Because listen, I love a spicy book. But sometimes it’s nice to have a book that has a romance with a side of spice. And I liked that the focus here was on what was going on around them and how Sammie and Carlos were coming together to take all that on. It didn’t take anything away from their romance to not constantly have spicy scenes. And for me the way everything was written made for an incredible book. GiGi Meier just earned herself a place on my favorite authors list.
Profile Image for Em.
206 reviews3 followers
September 8, 2022
Huge thanks to Gigi for allowing me to read her debut novel as an ARC. I honestly forgot why I signed up to be an arc reader for her.... I know it was because of a tiktok, but that's all I remember. Either way, SO GLAD past me decided to sign up. *time travel high five*

I absolutely loved Sammie and was rooting for her from page one. And CARLOS!!!! My little cinnamon roll human. I love him. Ex-marine with a heart of gold. Chef's kiss.

I'm honestly more impressed with her crafting of Maximiliano as a character though. I haven't had this visceral of a reaction to a character in a while. He was a damn good antagonist. I'm a sucker for a good bad guy. Not in a Kylo Ren kind of way (although that's true), I mean like a DARK, Heath Ledger's Joker kind of good bad guy. He's so despicable you can't help but hope he dies painfully. That's my jam.

Anyways, please give this a read.

Check trigger warnings though. Definitely not for anyone triggered by violence, sexual assault, animal abuse, or sex trafficking.
243 reviews2 followers
October 6, 2022
I devoured this book. I really loved Meier’s writing style and the plot had me hooked. After the first chapter, I was all set to read it in one sitting. The real testament to Meier’s writing talent is that when I read a bit featuring animal cruelty, which I can’t handle, while I put the book down, unlike every other book featuring this, I had to pick it back up and continue reading. The characters were really well written. Sammie is such a strong female, she has flaws, is vulnerable but is also a survivor. Her relationships are authentic and you are rooting for her the whole time. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book from BookSirens. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
Profile Image for Ayezu Tamarapreye Okoko.
610 reviews13 followers
October 31, 2022
BOOK:-COYOTE BY GIGI MEIER
BOOK REVIEWER:- OKOKO AYEZU TAMARAPREYE
SYNOPSIS:-
A story with the girl Gatita as protagonist as she is torn between two males Maximiliano and Carlos of which both are person's of opposite characters and loyalty.While Maxie Is a drug Baron and human trafficker who in the story turns from a different Maxie who loves Gatita to an El diabalo who hurts her and other girls in his captivity and demands love,Carlos Mendez is a raider,Mariner and counter intelligence security operative patiently waiting for love.The story looks at the subject of women being heard as opposed to being shut;teaching men as well as women about women , menstruation,pads and sex education;violence and physical abuse amongst others.
LESSONS LEARNT FROM THE STORY
🔥The importance for sex education for both the boy and girl child.
APPLICATION OF LESSONS LEARNT FROM THE STORY
The lessons in the story are trite
Profile Image for Krysten.
Author 2 books41 followers
September 22, 2022
3.5 stars

Coyote by GiGi Meier is compelling and action packed, and I ripped through it in just 24 hours. From the very first page, you're dropped into high intensity and danger that doesn't let up until the exciting conclusion. This is one of those books that would sooo never happen to anyone (well, someone, but most of us can't relate to it), which makes it both intriguing and fast paced.

There are some heavy topics covered in this book. You know straightaway from the opening scene that it's going to include physical and sexual violence. Had I not gotten this as an ARC on Booksirens (which had a note to see the author's website for the complete list of trigger warnings), I wouldn't have known to expect animal cruelty as well, and I would have been totally unprepared for what was to come. If you can't stomach these topics, avoid this book. Although I HATE books and movies that even HINT at an animal getting hurt (even if you don't see or hear anything and it's merely implied!), I will say that in this story, it served a purpose and was an integral part of the heroine's journey.

As I mentioned, I received an ARC of this book, but I was a bit surprised to see it has already been out in the world for about a month. In my opinion, the author may have rushed to publish, as there were some pretty glaring mistakes throughout the book (including a fair number of typos, inconsistent formatting of the Spanish words, and even a switch from past to present tense about halfway through). So, I think it could have used another round of proofreading and polishing.

Based on the book blurb, I expected this to be a dual-perspective story told from both Sammie's and Carlos' points of view. It was a single POV first-person story, which is totally fine, but the description was a bit misleading. Not only that, but we don't get introduced to Carlos until the 40% mark, which is WAY too late to introduce your hero. In fact, I don't remember reading the heroine's name (aside from the blurb) until she introduces herself to him, which was really weird. I was also confused at how immature Sammie is for a large chunk of the book; unless this was some kind of psychological condition where she reverted back to a childish state to deal with trauma (which is not implied), it was totally inconsistent with the bravery and maturity she had shown in the beginning when she rescued the girls from human traffickers.

That said, I enjoyed the book and stayed up way too late to finish it! There were some really beautiful and thought-provoking passages that, along with the action and excitement, made this a compelling novel. Though I hope Meier's next book goes through a more rigorous editing process, I will be on the lookout for her next novel.
Profile Image for Sarah Bernal.
194 reviews4 followers
September 14, 2022
Firstly, thank you GiGi for the arc of Coyote! When I first saw the brief summary on TikTok, I knew I needed to read this book right away. I enjoyed this book so much and it is such a captivating debut novel!!
Secondly, check the trigger warnings on this book. There are sensitive subjects covered but I think GiGi does a wonderful job when writing about them.

Coyote is told entirely in the first person narrative of Sammie, an internet personality who is determined to help those in need, from sick patients in a hospital to rescuing trafficking victims. Sammie's trials throughout the book strengthen her character, even if she has inner conflict which I find so realistic. No one goes through adversity, is given advice on how to change, and immediately changes -- there is self reflection and stumbling and going back to old habits. And old habits die hard for Sammie when she sees Maximiliano Maldonado for the first time after 5 years.

Maximiliano Maldonado is the villain that you love to hate. He isn't the fantasy villain where he'll "be the villain for you, not to you" (see the Plated Prisoner series for that reference). He is a straight up evil guy, but GiGi gives him complexity in his manipulations and actions towards Sammie. Every time he came in the scene I held my breath, unsure if he was going to spew hateful or loving lies, and if Sammie was going to shrink in a shell or explode at him.

And then there's Carlos Mendez. Sweet, sweet Carlos who trains all the dogs. The only thing I wish could be different in this book would be that he showed up earlier and that we got his point of view. I loved the growth between him and Sammie, even when it felt like they would be caught at any moment. The lust and romance between them was heart warming -- even if overall there were more action scenes than steamy scenes in Coyote.

All in all, GiGi knocked it out of the park with her debut novel! Where some first time authors fall short, she soared. I was captured at every twist and turn and can't wait to read more from her!
Profile Image for Kritika.
243 reviews7 followers
September 24, 2022
This is what I call a masterpiece.

Such a beautifully written book….the story, the characters….all were kickass!!

I am REALLY REALLY looking forward to read more from GiGi Meier. This was an amazing ride!!

Highly recommend!!
Profile Image for Jane | Book Flutter ♥.
603 reviews18 followers
October 16, 2022
This is Gigi Meier's debut novel and it did not disappoint. Literally, the very first chapter displays the tone of this story. Action packed, filed with suspense, drama, and intensity! The subject matter of this book is not to be taken lightly as it is very dark and disturbing. There is extreme violence against women, including sexual assault. 

Sammie is a self-made celebrity, but she is not your typical 'it' girl. She thrives in rescuing women and children who are found to be within the confines of sex trafficking, while using her millions to help those in need. During one of her rescues, she finds herself to be the next victim, caught and held captive in the confines of the Mexican cartel, which is operated by her ex. The first half of the book provides the historical context and dives into her past with her ex, Maxie, ensuring the reader understands why she vows to escape. In walks Carlos...literally. I am a sucker for a military hero and Carlos embodies this character. The sparks between Sammie and Carlos smolders off the pages as I found myself turning each page, needing to find out what happens next. 

I highly recommend this novel, even though it's subject matter can be a bit much, I promise it will be worth it. I look forward to reading more from Gigi!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Brandi-Lynn Weiser.
2,129 reviews77 followers
December 9, 2022
This is one book that will definitely stay with you long after you read it. It’s different from other books I’ve read, left me feeling speechless & my thoughts were all over. I was actually hoping Maximiliano could somehow redeem himself, I felt he loved Sammie, & there was a sliver of hope. I’ve read so many dark romances, & the mmc is like Maximiliano & somehow they redeemed himself. But there was just no hope in this story. I felt for Sammie, she didn’t want to, but she loved him & his ultimate betrayal & the secret he kept- it was so sad for Sammie. I was holding out hope for them, until he returned f/his trip- married. And that ending, that was the brutal, how he could decide that for her. I couldn’t believe it. But in the end Sammie got a good HEA w/an amazing guy who does loves her. But to say my heart isn’t hurting a little, I’d be lying. I kinda wanted a HEA for Maxi & Sammie- w/out him ever getting married of course!
One thing for sure, you’ll feel emotions w/this book. It was so good, had amazing depth & the characters were written perfectly. Really great read!
Profile Image for Magic book club.
614 reviews67 followers
November 15, 2022
4, 75 stars

,, My blood runs cold, and my tears stop flowing because the devil has

arrived. Yes, this is the true man I know, not the memories of long ago. This

is the drug lord, the leader, the stone-cold killer that murders people. Yes,

this is el diablo.”



I devoured this book.

This is the first book by Gigi Meier and I'm sure it won't be the last. I read the book in a couple of hours and I enjoyed it. I liked the story, the main characters, and the writing style. The story is intense, dynamic, and in some parts it is painful.

What I liked the most is that there are no endless sex scenes in the book, and that is another indicator for me that the book can be good and that I am drawn to read it.

Thank you, Gigi and thank you, BookSirens for this opportunity, I appreciate .

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Sally.
755 reviews18 followers
September 17, 2022
Just finished this ARC and I loved it! The plot was so interesting and different from what I have ever read. A strong female character with lots of sass and a big personality. A little bit of spice but not so much thar it took away from the story.

Sammie and her mom run a foundation to save girls from sex trafficking. On one of these runs, a mistake is made and Sammie goes to the only man she can think of.....drug cartel lord, Maximilliano Maldonado. He helps her in exchange for her captivity. And it nearly costs her her life.

Steps in Carlos Mendez. Ex-Marine turned private security for Maldonado who is meant to watch over Sammie. However, what he doesn't expect, is to fall in love with this captive.

Reading the bonus scene is a must!!
Profile Image for Shelly Montgomery.
69 reviews2 followers
January 11, 2023
This was my first book my GiGi and I am absolutely hooked... Her writing style is amazing... I honestly couldn't put this book down... Sam the main character was a strong but broken lead but in the best of ways...Carlos was a surprise but a good one... And I kinda felt a bit bad for Maxie but I won't give and spoilers.. You just have to read it you will not be disappointed..

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
1,760 reviews45 followers
December 6, 2022
What a fantastic, beautifully written book with a lot of suspense. An intense storyline that holds your attention as you get caught up in the fierce twists and hot chemistry and talk about steam. Plenty of excitement and emotionally heartfelt. A thrilling must read.
Profile Image for Kacie Mummawh0reads.x.
739 reviews27 followers
June 20, 2023
Sammie is desperate to escape the clutches of sex traffickers with the six teenage girls she rescued. When everything goes wrong, she's forced to seek help from the most unlikely source, Maximiliano Maldonado, the drug lord she left five years ago. She's going to need his power and protection to avoid being captured. But what happens when he turns the tables and seeks revenge on the only woman he has ever loved? Sammie can't trust him, but can she trust the new guard, Carlos, to help her escape the man who stole her heart all those years ago?

As Sammie and Carlos' friendship grows, the stakes become life and death. Maximiliano will stop at nothing to rekindle what he lost, even if it means hiding her deep in the confines of cartel life. Can Carlos rescue her without getting them both killed?

5⭐️ok this book was HEAVY! STOP and read the CW/TW before you read this one. It had so much action, I was hanging on the edge of my seat! What Sam experienced while with Maxie was heartbreaking. And Tiberia (her beloved k9 friend) 😭😭😭
⚠️Coyote is a single POV, action-packed standalone cartel, kidnapped, romantic suspense novel containing dark themes.
Profile Image for Haven Fox.
Author 19 books62 followers
April 18, 2023
(Please check all content warnings)
This book was action packed. Pacing was on point! Started you from the beginning and didn't let off the throttle. I feel like Meier did a very good job of keeping the interest high throughout the book. Really enjoyed the characters and the way they were built. This is a dark romance with heavy themes. Well written and engaging.
Profile Image for Kingke.
22 reviews
January 22, 2024
Felt as though the plot was promising at first, but then it just fell flat. Loved the idea of getting kidnapped by the cartel, but the story seemed to drag on in some parts and rush through others. Definitely better mafia/kidnapping books out there!

Also spoiler alert: the dog dies. Can’t get behind a book where the dog dies.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
778 reviews9 followers
December 22, 2022
This was a good read. The story had so much going on but in a good way. There was always something to pull you into the story.

Side note: I received a copy of this book in exchange for a honest review
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