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Reclaimed Hearts #4
Code Violation
Trust is a thing of the past. All that matters is the truth.
Forrest Cooper
Has a short list of people he trusts. His sister. Xavier Stone. Magnus and Rufus Ferguson. A nosey newcomer to Cooper Springs is not making his list. Ever.
Nero Vik
Produces a podcast about unsolved murders all over the country. He’s in town following his instinct. At last, he may have found his cousin’s final resting place.
Forrest is not giving the new guy an inch, much less discussing his sordid family history with him. His past, his sister’s past, is not up for debate on some nickel-and-dime podcast.
Nero was the last of his family to see his cousin alive. He was the one who said, maybe you shouldn’t. But Donny was someone who never backed down. He got into that van.
One man has dedicated himself to putting his past where it belongs—behind him. He has a lavender farm and after a lot of therapy, he sleeps at night. Most of the time.
The other is determined to expose the truth—no matter how painful it is. He’s lived with crippling guilt since he was twelve. Twenty-five years later he’s close to the truth and he’s not backing away now.
The perfect storm brings them together. Will they make it through to the other side?
Code Violation is book four in the Reclaimed Heart series.
Forrest Cooper
Has a short list of people he trusts. His sister. Xavier Stone. Magnus and Rufus Ferguson. A nosey newcomer to Cooper Springs is not making his list. Ever.
Nero Vik
Produces a podcast about unsolved murders all over the country. He’s in town following his instinct. At last, he may have found his cousin’s final resting place.
Forrest is not giving the new guy an inch, much less discussing his sordid family history with him. His past, his sister’s past, is not up for debate on some nickel-and-dime podcast.
Nero was the last of his family to see his cousin alive. He was the one who said, maybe you shouldn’t. But Donny was someone who never backed down. He got into that van.
One man has dedicated himself to putting his past where it belongs—behind him. He has a lavender farm and after a lot of therapy, he sleeps at night. Most of the time.
The other is determined to expose the truth—no matter how painful it is. He’s lived with crippling guilt since he was twelve. Twenty-five years later he’s close to the truth and he’s not backing away now.
The perfect storm brings them together. Will they make it through to the other side?
Code Violation is book four in the Reclaimed Heart series.
257 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 20, 2024
89 people are currently reading
56 people want to read
About the author
Elle Keaton
67books533followersElle 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.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews
December 27, 2024
Nero Vik is in town looking for answers to the bones that have been discovered, wondering if they belong to his cousin, or maybe the girls that have gone missing over the years in the small town of Cooper Springs, Washington.
Forrest doesn’t want anything to do with Nero Vik, the podcaster asking questions, as he has had a past that still gives him nightmares and just wants to live quietly on his family’s lavender farm. A murder and some trouble bring Forrest and Nero together, they both feel the attraction, and a fling is just fine for the time Nero is in town. Together for only a short time, their connection is intense and even though they don’t start it as a long-term thing they find that they work together in more ways than just the bedroom.
An intrigue filled addition to the series, with still some questions left unanswered for the next book in the series. I haven't checked, but I hope there is another one. Of course, I never want any of these series to end:) Forrest and Nero were a really fun couple with a really good story.
Forrest doesn’t want anything to do with Nero Vik, the podcaster asking questions, as he has had a past that still gives him nightmares and just wants to live quietly on his family’s lavender farm. A murder and some trouble bring Forrest and Nero together, they both feel the attraction, and a fling is just fine for the time Nero is in town. Together for only a short time, their connection is intense and even though they don’t start it as a long-term thing they find that they work together in more ways than just the bedroom.
An intrigue filled addition to the series, with still some questions left unanswered for the next book in the series. I haven't checked, but I hope there is another one. Of course, I never want any of these series to end:) Forrest and Nero were a really fun couple with a really good story.
July 18, 2024
I’m happy we’ve received some serious arch mysteries.
Thank you Elle Keaton for having most of your protagonists men over 30. It’s refreshing.
I like this odd little town.
Thank you Elle Keaton for having most of your protagonists men over 30. It’s refreshing.
I like this odd little town.
June 17, 2024
I received a free copy. This review is submitted voluntarily.
The book opens with a raven witnessing the murder of the local postman. Next, we meet 14-year-old Nero Vik who witnesses his cousin Donny being kidnapped in a van. We next see Nero in the modern era in Cooper Springs where he is looking into some recent grizzly discoveries. The scene is a few days after the previous instalment, that involved Police Chief Andre Dear and Dante. At this point, Forrest Cooper, a recluse and descendant of the town founders, has a serious hate on against Nero for no particular reason. Of course, that hate covers the lust Forrest carries for Nero (which is shared). Nero, after a futile search � the records have not been uploaded to the net � finds out that there are newspaper copies in the “Cooper Mansion� that has not been occupied since the fifties, but it catches fire before he has a chance to consult the records. Nero’s cabin is ransacked while he’s watching the fire and Forrest comes to visit Nero. It’s at this point that their feelings for each other come out. They agree to look into the postman’s murder together, not realizing how so many of the murders are connected. Their relationship develops but they go through a lot of difficulties before reaching their HEA.
I have read and reviewed the entire series and I’ve found that the author is really good at building suspense over the 4-book run, all while having a different couple in each instalment. This is the book that brings everything to a conclusion. Ms Keaton is excellent at showing Cooper Springs as a dreary Washington state town that is defined by how hard it rains. We finally find out who has been committing the murders and it comes as a surprise. The two main characters are quite prickly, though they get over that, at least with each other, fairly quickly. Their personalities seem quite suited to the dreariness of the town, though their prickliness was mostly a façade. The secondary characters, who are quite numerous, make major contributions to plot development. The series is meant to be read in order, failing which one might be totally at sea where the storyline is concerned. I thoroughly enjoyed the double plot level � on the one hand a couple in each of the books and on the other a building mystery. Up to the denouement in the end of the book, I was completely caught up in the story.
I highly recommend the series as a skillful mixture of romance and whodunnit.
The book opens with a raven witnessing the murder of the local postman. Next, we meet 14-year-old Nero Vik who witnesses his cousin Donny being kidnapped in a van. We next see Nero in the modern era in Cooper Springs where he is looking into some recent grizzly discoveries. The scene is a few days after the previous instalment, that involved Police Chief Andre Dear and Dante. At this point, Forrest Cooper, a recluse and descendant of the town founders, has a serious hate on against Nero for no particular reason. Of course, that hate covers the lust Forrest carries for Nero (which is shared). Nero, after a futile search � the records have not been uploaded to the net � finds out that there are newspaper copies in the “Cooper Mansion� that has not been occupied since the fifties, but it catches fire before he has a chance to consult the records. Nero’s cabin is ransacked while he’s watching the fire and Forrest comes to visit Nero. It’s at this point that their feelings for each other come out. They agree to look into the postman’s murder together, not realizing how so many of the murders are connected. Their relationship develops but they go through a lot of difficulties before reaching their HEA.
I have read and reviewed the entire series and I’ve found that the author is really good at building suspense over the 4-book run, all while having a different couple in each instalment. This is the book that brings everything to a conclusion. Ms Keaton is excellent at showing Cooper Springs as a dreary Washington state town that is defined by how hard it rains. We finally find out who has been committing the murders and it comes as a surprise. The two main characters are quite prickly, though they get over that, at least with each other, fairly quickly. Their personalities seem quite suited to the dreariness of the town, though their prickliness was mostly a façade. The secondary characters, who are quite numerous, make major contributions to plot development. The series is meant to be read in order, failing which one might be totally at sea where the storyline is concerned. I thoroughly enjoyed the double plot level � on the one hand a couple in each of the books and on the other a building mystery. Up to the denouement in the end of the book, I was completely caught up in the story.
I highly recommend the series as a skillful mixture of romance and whodunnit.
June 29, 2024
Forrest Cooper and his younger sister Lani were born in the Deep Forest, but somehow were sent out when he was about 7. Their parents remained behind, so they were raised by their grandfather. Over the years Forrest has had nightmares about their time with their parents, culminating in something bad he never remembers. Since then, Lani has become a police officer for the Cooper Springs PD, and Forrest has his lavender farm on the outskirts of town. Like the rest of the town, the two siblings are frustrated by the news of disappearances within their community.
Nero Vik has arrived in Cooper Springs on the trail of his cousin's disappearance. As a fourteen year old, he witnessed someone grabbing his cousin off the street and never saw him again. Since then he's been a journalist and has developed a following with his podcast investigating disappearances. After settling in, he runs into Forrest and there's a begrudging wariness from the farmer. The two spar a few times, but after Nero discovers the body of an old family friend of Forrest's, they team up to unofficially investigate... only to unearth multiple more plot twists.
This was okay. I wish the two characters had been developed a bit more, either individually or in their relationship. The sex scenes kind of made my eyes glaze over. Plot pacing was a bit of a murky muddled mess but fortunately moved quickly. But the good news is by the end of this book, most of the mysteries within the series have been wrapped up or answered with "we think, but we'll never really know..."
The author notes at the end that this was the end of the current mystery in Cooper Springs, but that she has plans to return and feature other residents. Thank goodness because I was about out of patience with this mystery.. After the wandering 12+ book mystery threaded through Shielded Hearts, I wasn't interested in this enough to keep reading anymore. Code Violation is better than Reclaimed Hearts, but not as good as the earlier volumes.
3 stars.
Nero Vik has arrived in Cooper Springs on the trail of his cousin's disappearance. As a fourteen year old, he witnessed someone grabbing his cousin off the street and never saw him again. Since then he's been a journalist and has developed a following with his podcast investigating disappearances. After settling in, he runs into Forrest and there's a begrudging wariness from the farmer. The two spar a few times, but after Nero discovers the body of an old family friend of Forrest's, they team up to unofficially investigate... only to unearth multiple more plot twists.
This was okay. I wish the two characters had been developed a bit more, either individually or in their relationship. The sex scenes kind of made my eyes glaze over. Plot pacing was a bit of a murky muddled mess but fortunately moved quickly. But the good news is by the end of this book, most of the mysteries within the series have been wrapped up or answered with "we think, but we'll never really know..."
The author notes at the end that this was the end of the current mystery in Cooper Springs, but that she has plans to return and feature other residents. Thank goodness because I was about out of patience with this mystery.. After the wandering 12+ book mystery threaded through Shielded Hearts, I wasn't interested in this enough to keep reading anymore. Code Violation is better than Reclaimed Hearts, but not as good as the earlier volumes.
3 stars.
June 30, 2024
This is the 4th book in the Reclaimed Hearts series. It can be enjoyed as a standalone. This book results in the closure of the mystery regarding found remains near Cooper Springs that is brought forward in book 1 of the series. This book focuses on Forrest Cooper and Nero Vik. Forrest has lived in town since he was 7 and lived with his sister and grandfather. Due to his chaotic childhood, he is very self contained. If he doesn't open up, he can't be hurt. There is a very short list of people he trusts and lets into his life. He certainly doesn't want anything to do with the investigative report in town. Nero is an investigative journalist that is currently unemployed. He has a successful podcast in which he investigates old cold cases to try and bring closure to the family. Ever since he watched his cousin be kidnapped and never return; he is constantly searching for him. Nero has come to this small town to investigate three missing girls from the 80's. While he likes Cooper Springs and the people in it, it takes time to get used to small town ways. Like everyone in town knew who he was and what he was doing before he finished his first coffee of the day. Things get worse when Nero stumbles upon a fresh murder. Someone has killed the postman. Just another thing to add to his list of stuff to investigate. When they first meet, Forrest gives Nero the cold shoulder. But just because he doesn't want to talk to him doesn't mean that they don't notice each other. The two unite in the cause of finding out who the killer is and why. As they spend time together, slowly walls come down and trust becomes solid between them. This is their story. I enjoyed this story and all the wonderful townspeople. They added charm and interest to the story. The book itself is very well written and easy to read. I enjoyed going back to Cooper Springs again.
I received a complementary advanced review copy from the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a complementary advanced review copy from the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 21, 2024
A great romantic suspense story!!
Code Violation is book four in Elle Keaton's Reclaimed Hearts series and you really need to read this series in order; the books do not stand alone. Having said that this is a fantastic series with each book featuring a different couple whose romance is solid at the end of their book. There is, however, an overarching mystery that is pretty much solved in Code Violation. I say pretty much because one of the reasons that Nero comes to Cooper Springs didn't get solved but it's not really a Cooper Springs mystery so that may never be solved.
Nero and Forrest make a great opposites-attract couple. Nero is detail oriented and good at his job of unraveling mysteries. Forrest is a grumpy, stay away from people kind of guy who doesn't want anything to do with relationships.
While more murders happen in this book, the mystery of them and previous murders/missing persons in Cooper Springs are finally solved. There are few heart-pounding moments when a much-loved secondary character goes missing and when final confrontations finally happen. This was definitely a great story and Elle Keaton did a great job of tying up loose ends for this series. She says it's not the end for Cooper Springs but she's also not revealing what might come next.
Elle has been a favorite of mine since I read my first book of hers back in 2018 and I'm really excited that I'll finally get to meet her in person when she attends Coastal Magic Convention 2025 next February in Daytona Beach. It's a great convention that gives readers a lot of opportunity to interact with authors and attend fun sessions. Check it out here: .
Code Violation is book four in Elle Keaton's Reclaimed Hearts series and you really need to read this series in order; the books do not stand alone. Having said that this is a fantastic series with each book featuring a different couple whose romance is solid at the end of their book. There is, however, an overarching mystery that is pretty much solved in Code Violation. I say pretty much because one of the reasons that Nero comes to Cooper Springs didn't get solved but it's not really a Cooper Springs mystery so that may never be solved.
Nero and Forrest make a great opposites-attract couple. Nero is detail oriented and good at his job of unraveling mysteries. Forrest is a grumpy, stay away from people kind of guy who doesn't want anything to do with relationships.
While more murders happen in this book, the mystery of them and previous murders/missing persons in Cooper Springs are finally solved. There are few heart-pounding moments when a much-loved secondary character goes missing and when final confrontations finally happen. This was definitely a great story and Elle Keaton did a great job of tying up loose ends for this series. She says it's not the end for Cooper Springs but she's also not revealing what might come next.
Elle has been a favorite of mine since I read my first book of hers back in 2018 and I'm really excited that I'll finally get to meet her in person when she attends Coastal Magic Convention 2025 next February in Daytona Beach. It's a great convention that gives readers a lot of opportunity to interact with authors and attend fun sessions. Check it out here: .
June 16, 2024
**4.5**
Forrest and Nero are more alike than Forrest thinks and that, along with what Nero is in town for, rubs him the wrong way. Nero has a podcast that investigates cold cases and several bodies have now been discovered in and around Cooper Springs. Unfortunately, he wants to speak to Forrest who is one of the least sociable men and his own painful childhood isn't something he talks about.
Forrest's denial about Nero is amusing as he rants about what the man is in town for. However, things start to get more tense as Nero starts asking his questions - house fire, car accident - he even discovers the body of the local postman and friend to everyone.
Tensions mount, both with the mystery of the story and between Forrest and Nero. Each man is stubborn and their back and forth is quite amusing throughout the book. Giving into their attraction is easy in the end and becomes something they can rely on as things get worse as They get closer to finding out what's happening around Cooper Springs.
The town's characters play a great part in keeping the story moving along, bringing a lighter touch to some scenes but also making everyone aware of what's been going on recently in and around their small town. The big reveal at the end felt slightly rushed for me but otherwise it's another great addition to the series. I look forward to more from the town soon.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
Forrest and Nero are more alike than Forrest thinks and that, along with what Nero is in town for, rubs him the wrong way. Nero has a podcast that investigates cold cases and several bodies have now been discovered in and around Cooper Springs. Unfortunately, he wants to speak to Forrest who is one of the least sociable men and his own painful childhood isn't something he talks about.
Forrest's denial about Nero is amusing as he rants about what the man is in town for. However, things start to get more tense as Nero starts asking his questions - house fire, car accident - he even discovers the body of the local postman and friend to everyone.
Tensions mount, both with the mystery of the story and between Forrest and Nero. Each man is stubborn and their back and forth is quite amusing throughout the book. Giving into their attraction is easy in the end and becomes something they can rely on as things get worse as They get closer to finding out what's happening around Cooper Springs.
The town's characters play a great part in keeping the story moving along, bringing a lighter touch to some scenes but also making everyone aware of what's been going on recently in and around their small town. The big reveal at the end felt slightly rushed for me but otherwise it's another great addition to the series. I look forward to more from the town soon.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
June 21, 2024
This is a great romantic suspense story. It is told from dual POV and is the fourth book in the series. It can be read as a standalone but is better enjoyed if you have read the first 3 books. Nero and Forrest each have trauma in the past. Nero is a laid off investigative journalist and pod caster who is trying to find closure to his cousin's disappearance and comes to Cooper Springs wondering if his cousin is one of the skeletons unearthed in the forrest. Forrest Cooper is a lavender farmer in Cooper Springs who has nightmares of his past living deep in the forrest with his survivalist parents. Forrest doesn't trust Nero or his motives and acts like he doesn't like him even though he is attracted to Nero. Weird things begin happening when Nero starts asking questions about the history of girls who have disappeared from the town. The two begin working together to solve the mystery of who killed the local mailman I loved this book and Nero and Forrest are perfect for each other. The mystery and suspense kept building till I was suspecting just about everyone. We have a resolution to the mystery of who killed the missing girls and what happened to Forrest's parents. I'm so happy that the series is continuing. I really hope Levi gets a story and declare in regards to his missing half-sister. I also hope we find out about the "Bigfoot" that was seen in the deep forrest.
June 18, 2024
🏞Great addition to romantic suspense series👬
Keaton's Code Violation was a hit with me, with just enough steam to make Nero and Forrest really sizzle once Forrest allows himself a drastic attitude change toward the newbie blogger journalist in town researching the town of Cooper Spring's string of disappearances/presumed murders through several decades. The relationship goes from negative territory to lightning speed forward in just a few days. For me, this combo of investigative suspense and hot attraction was a clear winner. The romance is a standalone story, but the town's resident cast of characters and the murder mystery have spanned through the series so I would recommend reading the series in order to get the full impact (and understand the role the raven has played throughout).
The balance of suspense, action and passion/romance hit just the right spot and the pace was really good with lots happening. The setting in the coastal wilderness of the Pacific Northwest made the crime component totally believable and the author even brought in Sasquatch believers and survivalists as key parts of the equation. And I loved the upbeat ending.
Bring me more in this vein of MM romance😍.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest opinion.
Keaton's Code Violation was a hit with me, with just enough steam to make Nero and Forrest really sizzle once Forrest allows himself a drastic attitude change toward the newbie blogger journalist in town researching the town of Cooper Spring's string of disappearances/presumed murders through several decades. The relationship goes from negative territory to lightning speed forward in just a few days. For me, this combo of investigative suspense and hot attraction was a clear winner. The romance is a standalone story, but the town's resident cast of characters and the murder mystery have spanned through the series so I would recommend reading the series in order to get the full impact (and understand the role the raven has played throughout).
The balance of suspense, action and passion/romance hit just the right spot and the pace was really good with lots happening. The setting in the coastal wilderness of the Pacific Northwest made the crime component totally believable and the author even brought in Sasquatch believers and survivalists as key parts of the equation. And I loved the upbeat ending.
Bring me more in this vein of MM romance😍.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest opinion.
June 19, 2024
- series
- older MCs
- ongoing mystery
This is the 4th in the Reclaimed Hearts series, and while there's a continuing thread running through the series, it can be read as a standalone. This brings to a close the mystery that started in Book 1 of remains found near the town of Cooper Springs. This book is the turn of Forrest Cooper and Nero Vik to find their HEA. The town is named after Cooper's family, and he and his sister have appeared in all the other stories so far. I loved finding out more about Cooper and the mystery surrounding his family, and what happened in the Deep.
I got a little bit of whiplash with how quickly Forrest changed his mind about Nero at the start though, it was a complete 180 in very short time and as a result, I didn't feel their chemistry at the start. I liked how it was given time to develop and I could see it growing deeper as the story went on. They really were so compatible with each other. I also enjoyed the conclusion to the mystery that's threaded through the other books in the series, and it was a satisfying conclusion to that. I've enjoyed this whole series greatly, and this was a great way to close this chapter in Cooper Springs. I hope there is more, because I'd certainly be happy to return to town some day.
I received an ARC and this is my honest review.
- older MCs
- ongoing mystery
This is the 4th in the Reclaimed Hearts series, and while there's a continuing thread running through the series, it can be read as a standalone. This brings to a close the mystery that started in Book 1 of remains found near the town of Cooper Springs. This book is the turn of Forrest Cooper and Nero Vik to find their HEA. The town is named after Cooper's family, and he and his sister have appeared in all the other stories so far. I loved finding out more about Cooper and the mystery surrounding his family, and what happened in the Deep.
I got a little bit of whiplash with how quickly Forrest changed his mind about Nero at the start though, it was a complete 180 in very short time and as a result, I didn't feel their chemistry at the start. I liked how it was given time to develop and I could see it growing deeper as the story went on. They really were so compatible with each other. I also enjoyed the conclusion to the mystery that's threaded through the other books in the series, and it was a satisfying conclusion to that. I've enjoyed this whole series greatly, and this was a great way to close this chapter in Cooper Springs. I hope there is more, because I'd certainly be happy to return to town some day.
I received an ARC and this is my honest review.
June 19, 2024
Code Violation was a hit with me, with just enough steam to make Nero and Forrest really sizzle once Forrest allows himself a drastic attitude change toward the newbie blogger journalist in town researching the town of Cooper Spring's string of disappearances/presumed murders through several decades. The relationship goes from negative territory to lightning speed forward in just a few days. For me, this combo of investigative suspense and hot attraction was a clear winner. The romance is a standalone story, but the town's resident cast of characters and the murder mystery have spanned through the series so I would recommend reading the series in order to get the full impact (and understand the role the raven has played throughout).
The balance of suspense, action and passion/romance hit just the right spot and the pace was really good with lots happening. The setting in the coastal wilderness of the Pacific Northwest made the crime component totally believable and the author even brought in Sasquatch believers and survivalists as key parts of the equation. And I loved the upbeat ending.
The balance of suspense, action and passion/romance hit just the right spot and the pace was really good with lots happening. The setting in the coastal wilderness of the Pacific Northwest made the crime component totally believable and the author even brought in Sasquatch believers and survivalists as key parts of the equation. And I loved the upbeat ending.
June 29, 2024
This is a wonderfully atmospheric read, Cooper Springs really feels like it has a dark shadow hanging over it. The book begins with Raven, another dead body being discovered, and the pressure to solve the mystery increasing. It’s the bodies and his own cold case, his cousin’s long ago abduction, are what brings true crime podcaster Nero to Cooper Springs. Which puts him in the orbit of one of its crankiest residents, Forrest. This author is excellent a developing an engrossing mystery across multiple books, and very skilled at mixing suspense and romance. I also appreciate that the characters are still the focus of plot, they drive the story. Forrest really resents Nero’s presence and interference in the town, so the two have a lot of friction between them, Initially. As the danger increases, Nero and Forrest work together looking into the recent deaths. I enjoyed them together, the author brings a good mix of tension and sweeter moments between them as they grow closer. No spoilers, but mystery comes to a satisfying conclusion, a worthy ending to the series.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
June 22, 2024
"Code Violation," the fourth installment of Elle Keaton's Reclaimed Hearts series, delivers a satisfying climax to the intricate narrative built up over the previous three books. This novel weaves together the seemingly unrelated strange happenings in Cooper Springs, all part of a larger, compelling mystery. In this final book, home-town boy Forrest and cold case podcaster Nero take center stage as they delve into the events that have plaguing Cooper Springs. Despite their contrasting personalities, an undeniable attraction simmers between them. Forrest, haunted by dreams possibly tied to his childhood, and Nero, determined to illuminate the numerous disappearances in Cooper Springs. Their journey and the conclusion of the series is filled with numerous twists and turns. Elle Keaton masterfully ties up all loose ends, addressing each plot thread that has previously been woven through the series. "Code Violation" successfully brings the Reclaimed Hearts series to a close, offering a thrilling and finale that does not disappoint.
June 20, 2024
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I get why Forest didn’t trust Nero. Not only does he have a complicated past, but he’s also protective of his town and friends. I love him, which is why I also love that Nero was able to get past his walls. I love a relationship that takes some work to win one of them over.
They make a great team, both in life and in solving the mystery of the deaths (at least, after they start talking!). And the case was definitely a fascinating one. So many lives lost. I feel so bad for that town and the grieving it’s had to do.
And oh man, Nero’s story, that poor child. I can’t even imagine. I love that he’s finding some peace by bringing answers and closure to others.
It’s a great series all the best that Elle is known for.
I get why Forest didn’t trust Nero. Not only does he have a complicated past, but he’s also protective of his town and friends. I love him, which is why I also love that Nero was able to get past his walls. I love a relationship that takes some work to win one of them over.
They make a great team, both in life and in solving the mystery of the deaths (at least, after they start talking!). And the case was definitely a fascinating one. So many lives lost. I feel so bad for that town and the grieving it’s had to do.
And oh man, Nero’s story, that poor child. I can’t even imagine. I love that he’s finding some peace by bringing answers and closure to others.
It’s a great series all the best that Elle is known for.
June 22, 2024
Book 4 in The Reclaimed Hearts universe of Cooper Springs. The overarching mystery finally gets solved in this story, mostly I think, but book 4 focuses on Forrest Cooper and a certain podcaster in town to do research on cold cases. Nero came in search of answers on the missing girls in the hope of finally finding out what happened to his cousin, who was abducted 25 years ago. That is his only motive, but Forrest doesn’t trust many people. He especially doesn’t trust newcomers. However, when the mystery starts circling around the Cooper family and Forrest starts to piece together his dreams again both men must get to the bottom of it before something sinister happens to them. And in the meantime deal with the attraction that’s always at a low simmer between them, until it’s not. Both men find something they never expected while trying to solve the town mystery, a HEA. I really enjoyed this book and do hope this is not the last we have seen of the town of Cooper Springs.
June 20, 2024
Forrester is suspicious of the podcaster and ex journalist in town doing a story on missing girls from Cooper Sprobgs in the 1980s. But he also likes looking at him.
Nero wants to learn all he can about the missing girls and about the town of Cooper Springs, but Forrest is avoiding him and scowling whenever they meet.
Then Nero finds the body of Ned, an older man who was friends with Forrest’s grandpa, and they team up to help find his killer.
Forrest’s fears about his Mom still being alive and living in the woods has plagued him, but it’s time to get to the bottom of the killings. Someone is also trying to make sure Nero doesn’t get his information, burning down the building where old newspapers are stored, ransacking his cabin, and cutting the brakes on Forrest’s truck.
As they work together, they learn there’s more to each of them, and their quirks match up nicely. With help from Rufus, they find the killers and put Forrest’s fears to rest.
This is a great story, full of drama, strange things, and of course, Raven. Loved it.
I received this ARC for free and am providing my honest review in appreciation.
Nero wants to learn all he can about the missing girls and about the town of Cooper Springs, but Forrest is avoiding him and scowling whenever they meet.
Then Nero finds the body of Ned, an older man who was friends with Forrest’s grandpa, and they team up to help find his killer.
Forrest’s fears about his Mom still being alive and living in the woods has plagued him, but it’s time to get to the bottom of the killings. Someone is also trying to make sure Nero doesn’t get his information, burning down the building where old newspapers are stored, ransacking his cabin, and cutting the brakes on Forrest’s truck.
As they work together, they learn there’s more to each of them, and their quirks match up nicely. With help from Rufus, they find the killers and put Forrest’s fears to rest.
This is a great story, full of drama, strange things, and of course, Raven. Loved it.
I received this ARC for free and am providing my honest review in appreciation.
June 21, 2024
Things come to the surface, secrets are revealed, and mysteries are solved in this fourth instalment of Elle Keaton’s Reclaimed Hearts series.
The arrival of Nero Vik, ex investigative reporter and now true-crime podcaster arrives in Cooper’s Springs, it seems all hell breaks loose, and a series of events are set in motion that shake the little town even more. We already knew that Cooper’s Springs is not just a sleepy, gossip-filled, rainy small town in Washington, but its secrets are deeper and more dangerous than expected.
Another action-packed, adrenaline-filled book, with Forrest Cooper, the resident lavender farmer wanting to keep Nero at arm’s length at all costs to preserve his privacy and his history, while battling his attraction to the man.
I hope there’s more to come from Cooper’s Springs!
The arrival of Nero Vik, ex investigative reporter and now true-crime podcaster arrives in Cooper’s Springs, it seems all hell breaks loose, and a series of events are set in motion that shake the little town even more. We already knew that Cooper’s Springs is not just a sleepy, gossip-filled, rainy small town in Washington, but its secrets are deeper and more dangerous than expected.
Another action-packed, adrenaline-filled book, with Forrest Cooper, the resident lavender farmer wanting to keep Nero at arm’s length at all costs to preserve his privacy and his history, while battling his attraction to the man.
I hope there’s more to come from Cooper’s Springs!
June 23, 2024
I have loved this series and this book was no exception. Forrest's story has intrigued me for a while and I was glad to get the full version here and to see him open himself up to Nero. They had great chemistry together but for me I just got so absorbed in the narrative. I was hooked from the beginning with the raven starting things off again all the way to the very end. I was glad they got their HEA and I liked how things changed from (sort of) enemies to lovers. They worked together well and I enjoyed seeing all the familiar faces of Cooper Springs too. There was plenty of action but it was all well paced and the character development was great. Overall, a great mm romance with a mystery finally solved! It works best as part of a series to understand the main plot so I'd definitely recommend starting with book 1 first.
I received and ARC and this is my honest review.
I received and ARC and this is my honest review.
July 15, 2024
I’m enjoying this series, and loving how all the pieces, and characters, fit together. I’m been intrigued by Forrest since meeting him in a previous book, and I love him and Nero together. Cooper Springs is a character in its own right, with its quirkiness and history.
I liked that Forrest got some closure re his parents in this story, and hoping that Nero does too in the future. I loved how they went from mistrust to friendship to more. I loved how the mystery slowly came together, with loads of research, and an action-packed tense showdown.
I love Lani, Forrest’s sister. She totally rocks, and being injured doesn’t slow her down. I enjoyed catching up with others from Cooper Springs again, and seeing them from another perspective.
I hope we haven’t seen the last of Cooper Springs, the Sasquatch, and the very intriguing Raven.
I liked that Forrest got some closure re his parents in this story, and hoping that Nero does too in the future. I loved how they went from mistrust to friendship to more. I loved how the mystery slowly came together, with loads of research, and an action-packed tense showdown.
I love Lani, Forrest’s sister. She totally rocks, and being injured doesn’t slow her down. I enjoyed catching up with others from Cooper Springs again, and seeing them from another perspective.
I hope we haven’t seen the last of Cooper Springs, the Sasquatch, and the very intriguing Raven.
June 20, 2024
This story combines the developing romance of Nero and Forrest (each likable in their own rights, and together, the opposites attract energy is on point) with an overarching plot line of suspense and intrigue, and for the most part, the two elements feel seamlessly interwoven. I won’t spoil any storyline details here, but for readers who’ve been following along since the beginning of the series (gentle note that it’s a good idea to start with book one and proceed from there, if you haven’t already) there are revelations and confrontations and a satisfying resolution to the overall plot arc. There are no dull moments here, and the combination of romance and mystery is easy to get caught up in. 4.5 stars.
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
June 29, 2024
3.25 stars
I’ve read every book in this series and enjoyed them all, in fact I enjoy this authors work so much I’ve read everything she has written, but this one was lacking for me and didn’t engage me as the other books have.
Carrying on directly from the last book, there is not a lot of recap on the happenings so the reader must have read what came before. Forrest is his usual grumpy self. I did find his about face regarding Nero needed more work. He went from not wanting to have anything to do with Nero and then spent one afternoon together and all of a sudden they are together all the time. I just didn’t feel the chemistry between them.
I did like Nero and his desire to help families have closure on their loved ones disappearances. I wish there was more on his cousins� disappearance as it was used as a plot point to get him to town and then he gave it up very quickly and easily.
I also liked that we have a conclusion to the bones found. This was the entertaining part of the book as the guys were investigating the death of Ned and consequently lead them to help find the killers. Good to see they worked with the local authorities to apprehend them.
Arc provided by GRR for honest review.
I’ve read every book in this series and enjoyed them all, in fact I enjoy this authors work so much I’ve read everything she has written, but this one was lacking for me and didn’t engage me as the other books have.
Carrying on directly from the last book, there is not a lot of recap on the happenings so the reader must have read what came before. Forrest is his usual grumpy self. I did find his about face regarding Nero needed more work. He went from not wanting to have anything to do with Nero and then spent one afternoon together and all of a sudden they are together all the time. I just didn’t feel the chemistry between them.
I did like Nero and his desire to help families have closure on their loved ones disappearances. I wish there was more on his cousins� disappearance as it was used as a plot point to get him to town and then he gave it up very quickly and easily.
I also liked that we have a conclusion to the bones found. This was the entertaining part of the book as the guys were investigating the death of Ned and consequently lead them to help find the killers. Good to see they worked with the local authorities to apprehend them.
Arc provided by GRR for honest review.
June 27, 2024
First - this story can't be read as a standalone. Although every story features a different couple there are ongoing unsolved murder mysteries in this small Northwestern Pacific town. I love this series. Elle Keaton is one of the best If you are a fan of small town MM romance/ mystery trope. Her setting the mood and a vibe of a small town, where even the minor supporting characters immediately take the life of their own is addictive. I won't repeat the blurb, let's just say that this one is among my favorites in this series. Enemies to lovers, slow burn and I loved the raven! Most of the mysteries get resolved in this book but not all so I'm eagerly awaiting the next one in Reclaimed Hearts series.
July 1, 2024
Captivating! Forrest, has huge trust issues. His circle is very small. Nero, ex investigative reporter, comes to Coopers Springs. He hopes to solve an old murder by digging into the history of the town's past. Nero, discovers a murdered man and as the newcomer, becomes a suspect. As he investigates and asks question, he is suspicious of Forrest and his family. Forrest refuses to cooperate with Nero, then circumstances lead to them working together. They dig up a lot, have a bit of adventure, learn that maybe they will have to trust each other while getting answers to their questions and solving the mysteries. Good flow, excellent characters, thrilling mystery. Totally hot cover art! Nicely done. I received an ARC and am volntarily leaving a review.
June 28, 2024
Absolutely Loved it!
OMG! This book had me screaming Noooooo with Nero and I was crying before I had finished the first chapter.
I have really loved this series. It has been gritty, scary at times and heartbreaking, about a small town set in the wilds of the Olympic Peninsular where a serial killer has been abducting teenage girls for decades.
Each book has a new couple finding love amidst the heartbreak and I have loved all these men but I think this book has to be my favourite of the series and not necessarily because of Nero and Forrest but because this story was the most gripping.
Nero has a successful podcast all about cold cases, missing people, and he has come to Cooper Springs to investigate and talk to the people about the disappearance of all the girls and the recent finding of human bones on the mountain. He also has his own agenda but I won’t mention that. Forrest is a descendent of the Coopers who founded the town. Because of his early upbringing he doesn’t trust easily and he certainly doesn’t trust Nero and refuses to let Nero interview him but the chemistry between them sizzles.
This book gets all the stars from me and I’m just sad the series is over.
OMG! This book had me screaming Noooooo with Nero and I was crying before I had finished the first chapter.
I have really loved this series. It has been gritty, scary at times and heartbreaking, about a small town set in the wilds of the Olympic Peninsular where a serial killer has been abducting teenage girls for decades.
Each book has a new couple finding love amidst the heartbreak and I have loved all these men but I think this book has to be my favourite of the series and not necessarily because of Nero and Forrest but because this story was the most gripping.
Nero has a successful podcast all about cold cases, missing people, and he has come to Cooper Springs to investigate and talk to the people about the disappearance of all the girls and the recent finding of human bones on the mountain. He also has his own agenda but I won’t mention that. Forrest is a descendent of the Coopers who founded the town. Because of his early upbringing he doesn’t trust easily and he certainly doesn’t trust Nero and refuses to let Nero interview him but the chemistry between them sizzles.
This book gets all the stars from me and I’m just sad the series is over.
June 16, 2024
This is book 4 in the series and must be read in order. We are back in Cooper Springs and this book features Forrest and Nero. Nero was an investigative reporter now turned podcaster who helps on cold cases. When bones were found and identified, he is there to learn more. Forest, even though feels something for Nero, is against him being there. As we learn more about what happened in Forrest and his sister Lani’s past, they figure out who done it. Great world building and heat between the two MCs. Cannot wait to see if there is more in this world.
June 19, 2024
A rare five stars.
Elle's writing style is fantastic IMOP. The scenes are realistic as a lifetime resident of western Washington. As I read about Cooper Springs I am transported to the Hoh rain forest. I can smell the damp, the moss. and the decay of fallen trees. Her characters are all someone you have met in one of the peninsula's quirky towns. The story line is strong and four murders, some dating back over 40 years, are solved. What's with the town librarian? Now we just need to learn if Ernst Cooper's death was murder, and who killed Lizzy Marlowe.
Elle's writing style is fantastic IMOP. The scenes are realistic as a lifetime resident of western Washington. As I read about Cooper Springs I am transported to the Hoh rain forest. I can smell the damp, the moss. and the decay of fallen trees. Her characters are all someone you have met in one of the peninsula's quirky towns. The story line is strong and four murders, some dating back over 40 years, are solved. What's with the town librarian? Now we just need to learn if Ernst Cooper's death was murder, and who killed Lizzy Marlowe.
June 21, 2024
Yes, I had to lead with that title. I could not resist. Forrest just wants to be left alone and there could be nothing worse in his mind then a nosy podcaster in his midst! I was all in for Nero's determination to figure out his cousin's case. We actually get to experience that young loss with him. Really great romance with the mystery of all these murders. Nero and Forrest really were different as night and day which brought on some passion as they connected. Definitely recommend reading as a series for the world building and suspense of this town.
June 21, 2024
Slow burn mystery
Nero is in town looking for answers to his cousins disappearance.
Forrest doesn't trust him.
Both carry a lifetime of trauma behind them.
Forrest won't let Nero anywhere near him, but when Nero gets caught in a new murder mystery with suspicion cast upon him, he gets involved.
It was really sweet to see grumpy Forrest slowly let down his defenses and let Nero in.
There's plenty of action, danger, and drama, plot twists that kept me on the edge of my seat until the end.
Nero is in town looking for answers to his cousins disappearance.
Forrest doesn't trust him.
Both carry a lifetime of trauma behind them.
Forrest won't let Nero anywhere near him, but when Nero gets caught in a new murder mystery with suspicion cast upon him, he gets involved.
It was really sweet to see grumpy Forrest slowly let down his defenses and let Nero in.
There's plenty of action, danger, and drama, plot twists that kept me on the edge of my seat until the end.
June 23, 2024
Code Violation is Book 4 in the Reclaimed Hearts series and features Nero and Forrest. Nero is a podcaster who features investigations and solving of old unsolved disappearances and is in Cooper Springs to find what happened to young girls who had disappeared. After a frosty start Nero and local, Forrest team up to solve the case.
I have been a keen reader of Elle's books for some years. This book brings my total to 23 books. I have enjoyed every one of them and look forward to reading even more!
I have been a keen reader of Elle's books for some years. This book brings my total to 23 books. I have enjoyed every one of them and look forward to reading even more!
June 28, 2024
Elle Keaton took us in directions I never expected with this one. We finally get resolution to the mystery of who keeps abducting women, which is a crazy ride to the end. Nero is in town to do his podcast, maybe solve a mystery, and see if there is any trace of his long-missing cousin. I absolutely loved how this all played out. The connection and attraction between Nero and Forrest was palpable and organic. I loved Forrest's grumpiness. I just can't say enough about this series or this book!!! A Must-Read!!!
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