After all, he's the Don Supreme of most powerful and feared mafia in the city of Chicago, and he has just married the love of his life, Natalie Tyler.
But the truth is Jaxon has been shaken to his core.
Rescued seconds before a Don Council coup, he has just learned that the man he trusted most in the world...has been lying to him his entire life. He trusts no one, and his concerns for the safety of his new wife and daughter grow by the hour.
Especially when he learns that Michael Valentine, the presumed-dead and psychopathic head of the Two Headed Dragon, is very much alive and is out for blood. His blood.
What's more, a rogue FBI agent now stalks Jaxon's every move, insisting that there is far more is going on within the crime syndicate that Jaxon is aware of.
Jaxon will not rest until these threats are eliminated. But the question is, can he keep control of his city while managing to stay two-steps ahead of the monsters now gunning for his family?
Nicole is a super proud dog mom to three rambunctious rescue dogs.
She's an old school romantic, with a proclivity for a little mischief, and an obsession with Sir Arthur Conan Doyle.
Her first book, Catalyst-Heart of the Inferno, is an action-romance about the terrifying and dangerous mafia lord Jaxon Pace, and Natalie Tyler, the girl who became his only exception.
This was phenomenal. Each book just gets better and better. It’s been a while since I’ve read a Mafia book series with such a strong storyline and character development. This is filled with suspense, drama and of corse an epic love story.
I can’t possible explain the story in book 3 because there’s just so much going on. And I’d have to reference back to book one and book two but just know that this is the darkest of the 3 books. Nicole started out with a great foundation in book one but then she let loose and not only do these books become more violent, even darker, more intricate and of corse way more steamy with each book but the storyline and plot are so jam packed that you’ll be turning the pages as fast as possible. I did get this series on audible which I highly recommend.
Jaxon is constantly hurt in battle, from torture, being shot. I’m not sure how that man is still alive. But good thing Nat is a nurse 👩🏼⚕️ Natalie is willing to go to bat for her man and she becomes quite the fiery and dominant Don supreme wife. She has the respect of all of Jaxon’s men now and they are as protective of her as Jaxon is. Their relationship is constantly tested, especially by Jaxon’s ex and baby momma Rachel. She’s from his world and doesn’t get why he chose someone as soft as Nat as his wife. Until Nat beats her ass in the fighting ring, that is 🥊
Jaxon and Rachel’s relationship is volatile and they know how to push each others buttons. He mostly wants to kill her. Why she’s so involved is also complicated but she’s a big part of the story. There’s a whole chapter of Jaxon and Rachel discussing their relationship and why they didn’t work out. It was such a strong chapter where we really got to see Rachel’s vulnerable side. There also a whole chapter where Jaxon discusses anal sex with Natalie, so there ya go. Something for everyone 😉
An FBI agent we met in book one is back and gets involved. Michael the psychopath leader of the two-headed dragon (also Rachel’s brother) is more psychopathic then ever and Rachel helps Jaxon get closer to him so he can eliminate him.
But this story is just so good. Very dark so check TW ⚠️
What to expect: A dark underworld with sex trafficking Violent killings of women Kidnapping, torture, violence on page. So much Alfa dominance Characters we’ve gotten to know, are killed off. Spice, spice, spice. Lots of “Just do as I say woman” Touch her and die / Touch him and die Dirty talk Psychopathic behavior
I just want to live inside Nicole’s brain for one day to see what it’s like 😮
The third book in the Heart of The Inferno is just as action packed as the first two. If you’re looking for fluff- you won’t find it here.
I lived for the moment where Steph put both Natalie and Jackson in their place, I was laughing so hard! And the softer moments between Natalie and Jackson- I loved those.
I also loved that we got to see more of Rachel in this book- I’m really excited to hear her story.
This book may be over 14 hours long but there is so much happening throughout the story that it doesn’t feel like it. Maxine and Grayson do a fantastic job with this performance. They’re voicing so many different characters in distinct ways and keeping up with the timing and emotion required in each different scene throughout the book. They continue to rock it! Can’t wait for the next book!
If you love mafia and romantic suspense I suggest you check out this series for sure!
*things that knocked this down for me: the daddy kink, and weird random onset of a breeding kink 😅
Holy shiiiiiit! This was jam packed with action and sooooo much going on! Book 2 is still my favourite but this one was amazing too! The smut was probably the best in the series so far as well. The narrators continue to do an amazing job with an incredible performance. I cannot wait to get started on Rachel’s story.
I've got the lowdown on "The Heart of Inferno" series that'll make you laugh, cry, and everything in between!
Picture this: it's like hopping on a rollercoaster through suspense, romance, drama, betrayal, and yeah, you guessed it, even more romance.
So, buckle up and get ready to dive into:
*Catalyst *Ignite *Flashpoint *Lies in the Dark (which is like the rebel of the gang, standing alone but totally worth it to meet Rachel) *And then there's Embers, which will hit you right in the feels.
And hey, if you're thinking about going the audiobook route, do it! The narrators are legit awesome.
Overall, I'm giving this series a solid 4 stars with a spicy 3.5 for good measure. So grab your snacks, err... I mean your books, and let the adventure begin! 📚🎢
Okay, so... I did enjoy this better than the last book. The drama, the twists... they kept me hooked.
I think i am just getting bored of seeing Jax and Nat discussing Jax's past hookups and how he is a changed man now and he is a loyal husband blah blah blah.. i don't need to read this almost in every chapter. Nat's written like this angelic, selfless princess and it's getting on my nerves at this point. I need a break from this couple but that said, I’m still invested.
Absolutely Brilliant! Amazing Story, Series & Narration🎧 Next Book Please!!
Flash Point Heart of the Inferno, Book 3 By: Nicole Fanning Narrated by: Maxine Mitchell, Grayson Owens
Jaxon Pace and Natalie Tyler’s story continues in the “Heart of the Inferno” series and wow, what a story it is, one I can not get enough of and to say that about a book that is over sixteen hours long you know it is something special. Actually, each book in the series is lengthy, but don’t let that scare you away, the story is amazing and once you start, it will consume you and nothing else around you will matter except what is going to happen next in the book. Nicole Fanning is a gifted author and the story she created is complex and multi-layered story which she continues to build on. The world building, plotting, and character growth is phenomenal. This book picks up with the second book, “Inferno” left off and the threats and power plays continue for the Don Supreme and his Regina. Jaxon took the news about Ethan hard and is still dealing, or not dealing, with that. Natalie continues to thrive in her new role, earning respect from Jax’s men, she brings compassion into the family, something Jaxon never bothered with because to him it is all about sworn loyalty. Rachel continues to be a thorn in their side, but Natalie still thinks she may be redeemable, or maybe she is doing it for her daughter, Jessica. Regardless, she could be valuable in dealing with Jaxon's biggest threat, her brother Michael Valentine, leader of the Two Headed Dragons. Another thorn in their side reappears, FBI agent Adam Westwood, and there are some interesting reveals and twists when it comes to him. There is never a dull moment in this book, there is unrest in the city, girls of the night are missing, some turning up dead, seems like trouble follows Jaxon everywhere he goes and people are losing their trust and faith in him. He needs to put a stop to who is behind it all, is it only Michael? Is he working with someone else, or is there another making a power play in Jaxon’s city? This action-packed story has plenty of drama, angst, twists and turns, thrilling suspense, heartfelt emotions and steamy romance. And that ending, double whammy, and a complete mind blow, but I am excited for the next book and am looking forward to find out how it all plays out. Nicole Fanning, thank you for this amazing story and wild ride, shout out to all the amazing secondary characters too.
🎧 📚🎧And for the amazing narration, Maxine Mitchell and Grayson Owens are the perfect cast to bring these characters and their story to life. They have a complete understanding of the characters they are portraying, giving each their own distinct voice, and are believable in every role they played. Maxine Mitchell’s take on Natalie is perfection, grasping every aspect of her personality, from her vulnerable side to her compassionate side to her bossy fierceness. Grayson Owens does the same for Jaxon, playing the perfect alpha boss. Both are fantastic performing the roles of the secondary characters, too. They set the perfect tone for the story, capture all the characters’ emotions and have you feeling every single one. These talented and versatile voice artists are entertaining storytellers and their narration enhances an already amazing story to another level. Thank you for another exceptional listen.
Nicole Fanning has officially mastered the art of keeping me on the edge of my seat. Flashpoint is exactly what its title promises — explosive, intense, and filled with emotional fire. After the heartbreak and chaos of Ignite, I didn’t think things could get any more dangerous or twisty, but this book proved me wrong.
❤️ The Story (Spoiler-Free)
We pick up right where Ignite left off, and from the first chapter, it’s clear that the stakes have never been higher. So many truths are finally revealed, alliances shift, and long buried secrets explode to the surface.
One of the biggest turning points comes when Rachel, Jessica’s biological mother, finally learns the truth about what really happened in the past. Realizing that Jaxon wasn’t her enemy completely changes the game, but it also sets off a new chain of chaos. The tables turn in unexpected ways, and yet the danger keeps growing.
There’s a darker undercurrent in this book with mentions of missing women and possible trafficking, adding another layer of intensity and moral weight. Meanwhile, Michael is still out there, more desperate than ever, and there’s someone even more powerful helping him try to take Jaxon down. The web of danger is expanding, and you can feel it tightening around everyone.
Through it all, Jaxon and Natalie are now married, and I adored seeing how solid they’ve become as a couple. Even when everything around them crumbles, their love is unwavering. One of my favorite scenes was Natalie stepping into the boxing ring with Rachel. It was symbolic, fierce, and such a defining moment for her character. She’s no longer just surviving this world; she’s owning it.
Her relationship with the Miami family continues to grow stronger, showing how much respect she’s earned. I loved seeing how she treats Jaxon’s soldiers not like subordinates, but like family. It says so much about her heart and leadership.
Of course, it’s not all calm…even their honeymoon gets interrupted by chaos (because what’s peace in the world of the Inferno?). Women still throw themselves at Jaxon, but he never gives them a second glance. His loyalty to his “Regina” is absolute, and that devotion makes their bond even more powerful.
There’s also an intriguing new thread with an FBI agent who’s been harassing Jaxon and his crew and when his true connection to their world is revealed, it’s another jaw drop moment.
By the end, tension is sky-high, control is slipping, and with Rachel now in danger, Nicole Fanning leaves us hanging with yet another massive cliffhanger.
🎙️ Narration
Once again, Maxine Mitchell and Grayson Owens deliver absolute perfection. Maxine captures every ounce of Natalie’s strength and heart, while Grayson nails Jaxon��s intensity and raw emotion. Their chemistry remains electric, and the emotion they pour into each scene makes every moment, from heartbreak to action, feel real.
💣 Final Thoughts
Flashpoint is everything I want in a mafia romantic suspense: high tension, deep love, and emotional chaos that keeps you listening long past midnight. The action is bigger, the danger is sharper, and the emotional moments hit even harder.
Natalie and Jaxon’s bond is unbreakable, their enemies are closing in, and their city is starting to crumble but one thing’s for sure: this series just keeps getting better. I’m completely hooked and already reaching for the next book.
Flash Point is the third book in the Heart Of The Inferno series featuring Natalie Tyler and Jaxon Pace. This book picks up where the second book, Ignite left off. It is a whirlwind of action and adventure, sex and suffering.
After learning that Ethan has been lying to him his entire life, Jaxon is furious and frustrated. He feels completely betrayed and casts off the man who has stood by his side for years. His anger however has him lashing out at everyone around him. Then Ethan goes missing. Jaxon claims not to care but Natalie knows they need to act.
Michael Valentine, Rachel's brother, continues to be trouble. The man is psychotic and delights in causing madness and mayhem. He also enjoys killing people. He is a soulless monster that needs to be put down, but who is an ally and who is a foe?
This book brings back Rachel, Colton and Agent Westwood. It also brings in a sassy Madame who speaks her mind and doesn't seem to care that Jaxon is the Don Supreme of Chicago. We also continue to see Natalie blossom into the Queen that she is, supporting Jaxon, having the respect of his men, being an amazing mother to Jessica, and making tough decisions. Jaxon and Natalie's relationship continues to grow. I love these two together. She softens his edges while he helps her become the badass she was born to be. We also get more of Jaxon's alpha team. At times they had me laughing while at others they had me crying.
Fanning ended this book on the biggest cliffhanger! My jaw dropped and I cannot believe I have to wait months to find out what comes next. The finale of this brilliant series is expected in December and I know everyone, myself included, is eager to find out what comes next.
Like the first two books, this one was also narrated by Maxine Mitchell and Grayson Owens. I really appreciate the consistency and was delighted to see that they will also be narrating Embers, the fourth and final book. I am so impressed by Mitchell's vocal abilities. She is able to easily convey both female and male roles, with so much emotion. Owens was also brilliant in conveying such a range of emotion and depth to these characters. They greatly enhance the listening experience, and what an experience it has been!
4.5 Stars! I received an ALC of this book and this is my honest review.
This was the 3rd book out of 4 and I loved it! That half point I deducted is only because it is a cliffhanger and the finale is almost 2 months away. With this story spanning 4 books, it is amazing that each one has held me in a chokehold thus far. There's no word padding to expand the book, just great writing. It just flows with drama, intrigue, angst, heart pumping action, suspense, all the feels and 5 pepper level spicy! What more could you want? The narrators are doing a fantastic job so far bringing these characters to life, taking this great story to a whole new level. The pace and smooth flow of the writing is above par. This new to me author has a new fan. Although she does break my heart in places, then puts me back together, has me swooning, angry, sad, biting my nails, drops me from the top of a roller coaster. But what a ride, I love it! lol. It's something special when you find yourself talking to the characters in a book. Maxine Mitchell is one of my all time favorite narrators, so I got all the emotional delivery I expected and more. Grayson Owens is a new to me narrator, but he did a great job, so I will be looking for more titles he narrates. I absolutely devoured all three books. Just when I thought it couldn't get any better, it does! I am waiting with bated breath for book 4 to listen to the finale. Special thanks to Bluenose audio for giving me the opportunity to experience this book as an ALC. I may not have discovered this wonderful author otherwise.
Flash Point Heart of the Inferno By: Nicole Fanning Narrated by: Maxine Mitchell, Grayson Owens
This movie in my mind is something I have become obsessed with! Nicole Fanning has had my ear binging this series all week. I could not get enough of Natalie and Jaxon and all the amazing characters I have come to love and love to hate! This picks up rights where we left off in Ignite, and the action and romance does not stop! Rachel has a bigger role, Ethan's secrets revealed, Charlie, Wesley and Levi on the lookout and Michael wreaking havoc. The question is where will it all go? Fanning has me on edge with suspense, with imagery so real, I could see it all happening. She keeps the romance spicy and growing and gives the secondary characters enough to make them feel like they are family. It's fantastic, but now I am waiting, not so patiently for book 4 to come out! I need to hear the conclusion! I cannot wait!
The narration by Maxine Mitchell and Grayson Owens continues creating that world that I have escaped to. These two are so good at pulling me into this and keeping me completely captivated. Mitchell is emotional, strong, spiteful, angry, passionate, you name it and that nuance is coming and creating the mood. Owens keeps his alpha men powerful, giving that feeling of danger, and at the same time safeness. He can turn on a dime and have a warm heart, filled with devotion. Together they keep the movie reeling and I love it!
Great story, annoying female character and narration. Natalie is the FMC but her character is the least developed in this whole series. Here we are in book 3 and she is still unable to recognize what’s happening in the middle of a shoot out. “Omg what’s happening?!” You’re in another shoot out Natalie 🙄.
She ruined the spicy scenes as well. Her dirty talk made me cringe. It was drawn out and had too much dialogue and inner monologue during those scenes.
Overall I love all the other characters and the story. I keep reading for the action. Not the spice.
Flash point is book three from Heart of the Inferno series. Omg it start we’re it left off from book two. From the beginning to the end you will not stop moving around. Their so much drama dark action . And the romance so steamy and hot 🥵 thru the book. Jaxon and Natalie love story. Their chemistry is so amazing. It. One stop. And Rachel and Micheal wow. I really recommend this book I give it 5/5. If you haven’t read this series you are missing it .
Audiobook Grayson Owens and Maxine Mitchell This audiobook narration was excellent. This was the 3rd book I. The series and I loved it. I didn’t listen to the other 2 but I did listen to lies in the dark which was Rachel’s point of view This story is about Natalie and Jaxon. Mafia romance This book really goes into detail of Natalie and Jaxon’s love and her role as his mafia wife. It brings characters together and gets you prepared for the final story of embers. Which is 5 ⭐️
I found it repetitive, how many times did she need to use "done supreme", "regina vestra" and "daddy"? And explain why! After the 50th... it becomes frustrating.
Natalie, I am sorry, you don't deserve Jaxon.... you don't listen, do whatever you want, get in danger and then! -oh, I am so sorry... I should have listened. Just to do it again and again and again. Woman, lessons are there to be learned. Stop putting everyone in danger and stop moaning!
I listened to the audiobook version with Maxine Mitchell and Grayson Owens as the narrators. This was delivered in dual format.
The is the third book of the Heart of the Inferno series and it never stopped! There are so many unexpected twists and turns in this story. Maxine Mitchell and Grayson Owens did a superb job, again, and I am looking forward to the next one.
I have been literally counting down the days for this book. Jaxon and Natalie are love goals. The roller coasters this book took me on… love it. I just can’t get enough Nicole Fanning… you’ve got me hooked !
Omg 🥵 What an intense , rollercoaster , of true love , intrigue and plot growth 👏👏👏👏👏 I was captivated from the first page and left in a beautifull daze afterwards xxx Highly recommend !!!! The audio narration was perfection 😘
I legit CANNOT with the ending of these books! 😳😳 "reading is relaxing" they said.... uh huh. I've been an anxiety riddled mess for days! Holy crap! These books are amazing and I'm absolutely obsessed with this world and these characters, but DAMN Nicole! 🤣 on to Lies in the Dark! 🙌🙌🙌🙌
Oh, I am hooked! There are parts that I want to scream RUN! Why can't someone just take out Michael! I love Natalie, Jaxon, and all his men and women he has surrounding him. As before, I dare you to make up your own mind!
This book is another captivating book in the series that takes you through the ups and downs of their relationship. I love how Jaxon and Natalie know how to best be there for each other and are so supportive of each other through these unexpected twists and turns. Natalie really comes into her role as the wife of the Don Supreme with her quick thinking and refusal to let Jaxon put her on the sidelines to keep her safe.
Even with them still fighting against Michael and trying to get ahead of him each attack against them or unfortunate circumstance that arises you might know something is going to happen but the what and why are always a surprise. Michael is crazier and more slippery than I could ever imagine and it brings some very interesting events to the book. I am so excited to see what comes next.