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Rivers Wilde #3.7
The Mastermind
From Wall Street Journal and USA Today bestselling author Dylan Allen comes a new story in her Rivers Wilde series…
He lives under a golden spotlight.
I’m shackled to a past that must stay hidden.
Omar Solomon is the king of the comeback.
Ten years ago his career as a star athlete ended in injury and scandal.
He may have traded in his cleats for Gucci loafers, but he’s been as victorious in the boardroom as he was on the pitch.
He returns to London, wealthy, influential, and powerful beyond measure.
And he spends every weekend in the pub where I work.
A law student with a night job and a dark past,
I’m hardly the type of woman a man like him would notice.
Or so I thought.
When he offers me a no-strings-attached affair,
I forget all the reasons I should say no.
He’s straight out of my dreams—
with a body and a mouth made for sinning.
Our passion turns my gray existence into a vibrant, colorful life.
But it has an expiration date.
When his time in London is over, we will be, too.
And it will be for the best.
Because he can never find out who I really am.
But my Mastermind has set his sights on a new goal: me.
And this time he’s playing for keeps.
**Every 1001 Dark Nights novella is a standalone story. For new readers, it’s an introduction to an author’s world. And for fans, it’s a bonus book in the author’s series. We hope you'll enjoy each one as much as we do.**
He lives under a golden spotlight.
I’m shackled to a past that must stay hidden.
Omar Solomon is the king of the comeback.
Ten years ago his career as a star athlete ended in injury and scandal.
He may have traded in his cleats for Gucci loafers, but he’s been as victorious in the boardroom as he was on the pitch.
He returns to London, wealthy, influential, and powerful beyond measure.
And he spends every weekend in the pub where I work.
A law student with a night job and a dark past,
I’m hardly the type of woman a man like him would notice.
Or so I thought.
When he offers me a no-strings-attached affair,
I forget all the reasons I should say no.
He’s straight out of my dreams—
with a body and a mouth made for sinning.
Our passion turns my gray existence into a vibrant, colorful life.
But it has an expiration date.
When his time in London is over, we will be, too.
And it will be for the best.
Because he can never find out who I really am.
But my Mastermind has set his sights on a new goal: me.
And this time he’s playing for keeps.
**Every 1001 Dark Nights novella is a standalone story. For new readers, it’s an introduction to an author’s world. And for fans, it’s a bonus book in the author’s series. We hope you'll enjoy each one as much as we do.**
125 pages, Paperback
First published February 8, 2022
About the author
Dylan Allen
38 books2,495 followersI'm an independent author of contemporary romance novels.
I love staying in touch with readers! You can follow me at all of these places.
➜Follow Dylan on: Website: www.dylanallenbooks.com Instagram: @dylanallenromance
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authordylana...
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/dylan...
Amazon: http://amzn.to/2tpN6TF Goodreads: http://bit.ly/2vj00QB
I love staying in touch with readers! You can follow me at all of these places.
➜Follow Dylan on: Website: www.dylanallenbooks.com Instagram: @dylanallenromance
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authordylana...
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/dylan...
Amazon: http://amzn.to/2tpN6TF Goodreads: http://bit.ly/2vj00QB
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 86 reviews
February 8, 2022
5 stars
The Mastermind was another masterpiece by Dylan Allen! Jules and Omar were everything and I couldn't get enough of their story. Romantic, passionate, with a bit of suspense and angst, this was perfect for me! I loved being back in the world of 'Rivers Wilde' again and can't wait to read more!
The Mastermind was another masterpiece by Dylan Allen! Jules and Omar were everything and I couldn't get enough of their story. Romantic, passionate, with a bit of suspense and angst, this was perfect for me! I loved being back in the world of 'Rivers Wilde' again and can't wait to read more!
February 8, 2022
5 Stars!
(ARC provided by Social Butterfly PR)
Omar Solomon is an extremely wealthy, influential bachelor who lives in Rivers Wilde in Houston, Texas. He's a famous ex pro athlete who left behind his ten year career after an injury. He's made a comeback, and started an investment company. Whatever the venture, success seems to follow him, but sometimes you just need to get away and take a break. He heads to London where he meets a woman whose smile is pure sunshine. She's sweet, gorgeous, and intrigues him. One touch and he's not sure he can let her go when it's time to return home.
Juliana Quist is a law student in London attempting to rewrite her own history. She's worked hard for the future she wants, and all her dreams are starting to come true. That includes her crush pursuing her. Omar Solomon is the golden boy who lives in the spotlight. The sexy businessman has a reputation for being a playboy who is set in his ways, and doesn't do commitments or relationships. She's admired him from afar, but doesn't think he notices her, so when he offers her a no strings arrangement with an expiration date, he's hard to deny. Soon she's enjoying living in the moment and feels more alive than she's ever felt. Could this finally be her new beginning, or will her past come crashing down around her?
-She's a fireball of mystery and magic and is as complicated and clever as she is beautiful. She enchants and terrifies me. I've dated women who've made me feel both of these things, but never all at once.
The Mastermind is a 1001 Dark Nights Rivers Wilde novella by Dylan Allen. It's a standalone, friends to lovers romance full of angst, drama, emotion, humor, secrets, lies, passion and beautiful love. In this story we are taken back to the Rivers Wilde world, but also take an adventure to London. I absolutely adored everything about Omar Solomon! This man is swoony, sexy and will capture your heart from the start! <333
***NOW AVAILABLE***
https://amzn.to/3Lc17Zc
(ARC provided by Social Butterfly PR)
Omar Solomon is an extremely wealthy, influential bachelor who lives in Rivers Wilde in Houston, Texas. He's a famous ex pro athlete who left behind his ten year career after an injury. He's made a comeback, and started an investment company. Whatever the venture, success seems to follow him, but sometimes you just need to get away and take a break. He heads to London where he meets a woman whose smile is pure sunshine. She's sweet, gorgeous, and intrigues him. One touch and he's not sure he can let her go when it's time to return home.
Juliana Quist is a law student in London attempting to rewrite her own history. She's worked hard for the future she wants, and all her dreams are starting to come true. That includes her crush pursuing her. Omar Solomon is the golden boy who lives in the spotlight. The sexy businessman has a reputation for being a playboy who is set in his ways, and doesn't do commitments or relationships. She's admired him from afar, but doesn't think he notices her, so when he offers her a no strings arrangement with an expiration date, he's hard to deny. Soon she's enjoying living in the moment and feels more alive than she's ever felt. Could this finally be her new beginning, or will her past come crashing down around her?
-She's a fireball of mystery and magic and is as complicated and clever as she is beautiful. She enchants and terrifies me. I've dated women who've made me feel both of these things, but never all at once.
The Mastermind is a 1001 Dark Nights Rivers Wilde novella by Dylan Allen. It's a standalone, friends to lovers romance full of angst, drama, emotion, humor, secrets, lies, passion and beautiful love. In this story we are taken back to the Rivers Wilde world, but also take an adventure to London. I absolutely adored everything about Omar Solomon! This man is swoony, sexy and will capture your heart from the start! <333
***NOW AVAILABLE***
https://amzn.to/3Lc17Zc
January 29, 2022
Sweet and charming
Sexy and spicy
Dylan Allen knows how to deliver must-read, heartwarming, happily ever after romance!
Omar Solomon was a man who seemed to have it all—money, celebrity, family, friends, etc. Yet he was uncomfortable with the press and failed to make real connections in his love life. And his family seemed to be falling apart due to secrets and lies.
Jules knew all about lies—heck, she was living the biggest one of them all. She didn't allow anyone to get too close, stayed under the radar, and dreamed from afar.
It was like these two were each other's kryptonite. They were doing things they vowed never to do. Feeling things they never experienced before. While their romance seemed to build quickly, it actually started off extremely slow (their pseudo meet-cute forced things to develop in steps).
I was even caught up in the mystery surrounding Jules's past. Who did what? She is who now? What happens next?
However... don't act like you didn't know a but was coming... I did find that this story was too long and yet not long enough. While some parts were explored in depth, like the relationship between the main characters (so good), the other parts, those surrounding the past, seemed to be left up in the air. Touched, but barely. I'm greedy. I think we all know this by now and I needed more.
Not quite a novella, not quite a novel, but definitely worth the read.
Find more on the blog
Sexy and spicy
Dylan Allen knows how to deliver must-read, heartwarming, happily ever after romance!
Omar Solomon was a man who seemed to have it all—money, celebrity, family, friends, etc. Yet he was uncomfortable with the press and failed to make real connections in his love life. And his family seemed to be falling apart due to secrets and lies.
Jules knew all about lies—heck, she was living the biggest one of them all. She didn't allow anyone to get too close, stayed under the radar, and dreamed from afar.
It was like these two were each other's kryptonite. They were doing things they vowed never to do. Feeling things they never experienced before. While their romance seemed to build quickly, it actually started off extremely slow (their pseudo meet-cute forced things to develop in steps).
I was even caught up in the mystery surrounding Jules's past. Who did what? She is who now? What happens next?
However... don't act like you didn't know a but was coming... I did find that this story was too long and yet not long enough. While some parts were explored in depth, like the relationship between the main characters (so good), the other parts, those surrounding the past, seemed to be left up in the air. Touched, but barely. I'm greedy. I think we all know this by now and I needed more.
Not quite a novella, not quite a novel, but definitely worth the read.
Find more on the blog
February 6, 2022
A very enjoyable story with some suspense and twists in it! Jules and Omar are a great couple together.... and I was not at all surprised when they got into their fight and how he reacted to it. What did surprise me was when they put their heads together and started to investigate, the road that it takes them along uncovered some things that I did not see coming! And of coarse it was great to get a little peek to see how the folks of Rivers Wilde are doing when they made their trip there!
Story 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Spice 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Swoon 😍😍😍😍
Angst 💔💔💔
Story 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Spice 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Swoon 😍😍😍😍
Angst 💔💔💔
November 10, 2021
I have been waiting for more of Omar for soooooo long!! The moment he was mentioned years ago I took an instant liking to him, I can't for sure say why but I just knew I needed more of this charismatic, challenging, creative and sensual man! He's everything I love in an addicting book boyfriend and more.
He and Jules are perfection and Allen gives you a little bit of everything in The Mastermind....intensity, a spectacular love, tension, push and pull...I have come to know that no one writes a titillating love scene quite like her, they are always so lush, sensuous and enthralling!!
For me Dylan has consistently created these amazing stories within a community that we've grown to love, filled with characters that pull us in, make us think, gasp and shout! I'm always excited to open one of her books for her unique voice, her original plots and honestly? The shocking curveballs she sometimes hits us with. The mastermind is everything I'd hoped it would be and so much more.
He and Jules are perfection and Allen gives you a little bit of everything in The Mastermind....intensity, a spectacular love, tension, push and pull...I have come to know that no one writes a titillating love scene quite like her, they are always so lush, sensuous and enthralling!!
For me Dylan has consistently created these amazing stories within a community that we've grown to love, filled with characters that pull us in, make us think, gasp and shout! I'm always excited to open one of her books for her unique voice, her original plots and honestly? The shocking curveballs she sometimes hits us with. The mastermind is everything I'd hoped it would be and so much more.
January 15, 2022
At long last!!!! A swoon-worthy romance created with honest sensibility, will hold you spellbound from first page to the last. Steeped With equal amounts of heat and passion, it also has a hefty dollop of torment to keep readers on their toes
This Rivers Wilde family saga is a bottomless well of new stories, new emotions and new characters. It's just keeps on giving!
"I’ve read your warning labels. You can be rigid and judgmental and not particularly forgiving. You can be overbearing and a bit of a know-it-all. And you’re an introvert.” "
Omar soloman, my love is here and he's everything I dreamed him to be...and Much More!!!
Dylan has changed her style a bit, fine tuned the plotting with edgy crispness and the result is a precise, concise & taut tale of two lovers from the opposite sides of the pond. Two bent hearts are scraping the bottom of their ill-fated barrel. Both lonely and miserable hiding under the cloak of normalcy.
"No one should live with the burden of sins they didn’t commit."
But destined hearts propel towards each other like magnets and readers get a ringside seat to this hot as Lava, brimming full of pounding passion love story that had me fanning my face!!
Their crackling chemistry just set the pages on fire.
"I touched you and—”
“We caught fire,”"
Omar Soloman is...Omg walking talking heat missile. His target - Juliana Quist is a bachelor of law, harboring a secret crush on him from afar.
It's a match of inadequacies in the sense they both think they aren't good enough.
I loved their relationship development graph but also the side plots that Dylan spotlights. Esp the one between Omar and his father, his mother and also a bit with Layel, his sister.those stories are significant in carrying the story forward too.
It's unbelievably passionate story, meant to capture your heart & soul instantly. You cannot walk away or erase it's indelible mark from your heart any time soon.
5 panty melting stars for Break & Beat
Follow me on:
Email🌻 Bookbub 🌻 Twitter🌻 Instagram🌻 Blog🌻 Facebook🌻 Amazon 🌻
This Rivers Wilde family saga is a bottomless well of new stories, new emotions and new characters. It's just keeps on giving!
"I’ve read your warning labels. You can be rigid and judgmental and not particularly forgiving. You can be overbearing and a bit of a know-it-all. And you’re an introvert.” "
Omar soloman, my love is here and he's everything I dreamed him to be...and Much More!!!
Dylan has changed her style a bit, fine tuned the plotting with edgy crispness and the result is a precise, concise & taut tale of two lovers from the opposite sides of the pond. Two bent hearts are scraping the bottom of their ill-fated barrel. Both lonely and miserable hiding under the cloak of normalcy.
"No one should live with the burden of sins they didn’t commit."
But destined hearts propel towards each other like magnets and readers get a ringside seat to this hot as Lava, brimming full of pounding passion love story that had me fanning my face!!
Their crackling chemistry just set the pages on fire.
"I touched you and—”
“We caught fire,”"
Omar Soloman is...Omg walking talking heat missile. His target - Juliana Quist is a bachelor of law, harboring a secret crush on him from afar.
It's a match of inadequacies in the sense they both think they aren't good enough.
I loved their relationship development graph but also the side plots that Dylan spotlights. Esp the one between Omar and his father, his mother and also a bit with Layel, his sister.those stories are significant in carrying the story forward too.
It's unbelievably passionate story, meant to capture your heart & soul instantly. You cannot walk away or erase it's indelible mark from your heart any time soon.
5 panty melting stars for Break & Beat
Follow me on:
Email🌻 Bookbub 🌻 Twitter🌻 Instagram🌻 Blog🌻 Facebook🌻 Amazon 🌻
January 24, 2022
I never thought a hero by this author could come close to toppling Stone from The Jezebel as my favorite, but Omar came VERY close. I love him, his story with Jules (who is just AMAZING too), and this new chapter to Rivers Wilde. Just *chef’s kiss* perfection!
February 7, 2022
Jules and Omar were awesome! What a great story that I enjoyed through the last page. I actually didn't want it to end.
Jules is studying to become a lawyer. She calls London home but it's never really felt like an actual home. She's all on her own, with no family and just a few friends. She's driven to achieve her goals. It has been her single-minded focus for the past few years and nothing will stop her from achieving her dream.
Her only distraction is him. The handsome guy who comes into the bar she works at. She never expected to even speak with him, yet when an unfortunate accident brings her into his orbit, their chemistry is undeniable. Omar is a good time guy. He's super successful and only in London temporarily. It's the perfect arrangement for a girl with little experience and secrets she never hopes to reveal.
These two were absolutely perfect together. Both carried their baggage like armor, but it doesn't take that long for their walls to come down as their temporary becomes a hope for forever. The author delivered a passionate romance with suspense and a few twists. I easily got swept back into the world of Rivers Wilde and enjoyed every minute of my visit.
Jules is studying to become a lawyer. She calls London home but it's never really felt like an actual home. She's all on her own, with no family and just a few friends. She's driven to achieve her goals. It has been her single-minded focus for the past few years and nothing will stop her from achieving her dream.
Her only distraction is him. The handsome guy who comes into the bar she works at. She never expected to even speak with him, yet when an unfortunate accident brings her into his orbit, their chemistry is undeniable. Omar is a good time guy. He's super successful and only in London temporarily. It's the perfect arrangement for a girl with little experience and secrets she never hopes to reveal.
These two were absolutely perfect together. Both carried their baggage like armor, but it doesn't take that long for their walls to come down as their temporary becomes a hope for forever. The author delivered a passionate romance with suspense and a few twists. I easily got swept back into the world of Rivers Wilde and enjoyed every minute of my visit.
February 3, 2022
Every woman needs an Omar Solomon in her life. And every man needs a Jules in his corner. Dylan Allen weaves a seductive and deeply emotional tale in The Mastermind. Sensual. Heart pounding.
Omar Solomon is called as the Mastermind because he can play the long game and makes moves before anyone can anticipate. Ex soccer star. Current business tycoon. But he was not ready for the phenomenon called Julian Quist who he meets in London while on a much needed break from family and business. She is a barrister and a candle maker and a bartender. And she has a past. But she cannot resist Omar's proposal of a no strings arrangement. What will happen when her lies come out?
Like any Dylan Allen novel, you can expect the characters are complex with complicated history that left marks on their soul. Omar is seen as this charismatic, gorgeous, sharp minded and alpha man by the world. But he has deeply hidden anger and guilt and pain. Jules had a dark past but she fought like a queen to beat her demons and become someone proud and accomplished. That doesn't mean she is perfect but her scars make her the amazing woman she is today. Omar and Jules have amazing chemistry from the beginning but their issues made them scared of asking for more. But they healed together and with each other. Jules made Omar see the beauty of forgiveness and fresh start. And Omar acted as her protector when she needed one. The feels were raw and heartaching as they tackled the obstacles. The secrets and twists made this story an exciting one as I kept on turning the pages to know what is happening next.
I reviewed an early copy voluntarily
Omar Solomon is called as the Mastermind because he can play the long game and makes moves before anyone can anticipate. Ex soccer star. Current business tycoon. But he was not ready for the phenomenon called Julian Quist who he meets in London while on a much needed break from family and business. She is a barrister and a candle maker and a bartender. And she has a past. But she cannot resist Omar's proposal of a no strings arrangement. What will happen when her lies come out?
Like any Dylan Allen novel, you can expect the characters are complex with complicated history that left marks on their soul. Omar is seen as this charismatic, gorgeous, sharp minded and alpha man by the world. But he has deeply hidden anger and guilt and pain. Jules had a dark past but she fought like a queen to beat her demons and become someone proud and accomplished. That doesn't mean she is perfect but her scars make her the amazing woman she is today. Omar and Jules have amazing chemistry from the beginning but their issues made them scared of asking for more. But they healed together and with each other. Jules made Omar see the beauty of forgiveness and fresh start. And Omar acted as her protector when she needed one. The feels were raw and heartaching as they tackled the obstacles. The secrets and twists made this story an exciting one as I kept on turning the pages to know what is happening next.
I reviewed an early copy voluntarily
February 9, 2022
5 MASTERMIND STARS!! Wow, here we go again with a phenomenal story by this talented author. Jules and Omar kept me flipping pages and loving every minute. You must read this book....it is so good.
February 8, 2022
“You’re my home.”
Oh my stars! Dylan Allen’s The Mastermind is a masterpiece! From the swoon-filled sweet sigh to the shrieking oh my, Allen paints a vivid and mesmerizing portrait of passion and perseverance in The Mastermind, an oh so addictive romance. I was enraptured with this love story of smolder, suspense and swoon that’s so smartly crafted.
A fire-burning, second-chance romance, The Mastermind chronicles a golden prince and a princess imprisoned by her past as they embark on a whirlwind of a journey and life that was meant to be theirs. I adored the heroine, the strong and stunning Jules. I crushed on the hot and heart-dropping hero, Omar who was definitely my crush.
This couple combusts with a palpable pull that’s irresistible … so magical together! I couldn’t help but feel the power of these characters’ story with a meaningful message to never judge others as you don’t know their stories: Good people get caught in bad situations all the time.
Readers will ache for The Mastermind, a sizzling story of soulmates, serendipity, and second chances at love and life that wholeheartedly captivates the whole time reading. A romance so well-written with strong and sexy characters that I felt everywhere. Steamy, dreamy, and oh so divine … a delectable delight. The Mastermind is a masterpiece that mesmerizes every step of the way. A jewel of a novel.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ burning stars
➡️ https://amzn.to/33xnVRQ
Reviewed by Bookalicious Babes Blog
Oh my stars! Dylan Allen’s The Mastermind is a masterpiece! From the swoon-filled sweet sigh to the shrieking oh my, Allen paints a vivid and mesmerizing portrait of passion and perseverance in The Mastermind, an oh so addictive romance. I was enraptured with this love story of smolder, suspense and swoon that’s so smartly crafted.
A fire-burning, second-chance romance, The Mastermind chronicles a golden prince and a princess imprisoned by her past as they embark on a whirlwind of a journey and life that was meant to be theirs. I adored the heroine, the strong and stunning Jules. I crushed on the hot and heart-dropping hero, Omar who was definitely my crush.
This couple combusts with a palpable pull that’s irresistible … so magical together! I couldn’t help but feel the power of these characters’ story with a meaningful message to never judge others as you don’t know their stories: Good people get caught in bad situations all the time.
Readers will ache for The Mastermind, a sizzling story of soulmates, serendipity, and second chances at love and life that wholeheartedly captivates the whole time reading. A romance so well-written with strong and sexy characters that I felt everywhere. Steamy, dreamy, and oh so divine … a delectable delight. The Mastermind is a masterpiece that mesmerizes every step of the way. A jewel of a novel.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ burning stars
➡️ https://amzn.to/33xnVRQ
Reviewed by Bookalicious Babes Blog
January 5, 2022
The Mastermind is a masterfully written, tantalizing story set in this author’s Rivers Wilde world. This novella was fast-paced, entertaining, and I couldn’t put it down! Omar is positively scrumptious and I loved Jules. Together they are perfection in both their physical and emotional connection. As their relationship heats up, there are secrets that threaten to destroy their world.
An intriguing story, there were moments where I was on the edge of my seat and I thoroughly enjoyed the shocking revelations and interesting twists. This author never fails to snag my attention as I revel in her brilliant writing style and ability to weave together a story that is engaging, steamy, and well thought out. She has mastered the art of character development and is consistently successful at creating characters that possess great depth and are both lovable and relatable. While this novella is set in the Rivers Wilde world, The Mastermind can be read as a standalone. If you have enjoyed this author’s previous works you will absolutely love The Mastermind!
An intriguing story, there were moments where I was on the edge of my seat and I thoroughly enjoyed the shocking revelations and interesting twists. This author never fails to snag my attention as I revel in her brilliant writing style and ability to weave together a story that is engaging, steamy, and well thought out. She has mastered the art of character development and is consistently successful at creating characters that possess great depth and are both lovable and relatable. While this novella is set in the Rivers Wilde world, The Mastermind can be read as a standalone. If you have enjoyed this author’s previous works you will absolutely love The Mastermind!
February 8, 2022
Rivers Wilde Series:
The Legacy
The Legend
The Jezebel
The Daredevil
Mastermind - What can I say, absolutely love this series. The characters are all strong and down to earth as you can get. They all struggle with daily life and chores. In Mastermind we meet hot and tempting Omar and Juliana. Will they let fate tempt them or go for it.
The Legacy
The Legend
The Jezebel
The Daredevil
Mastermind - What can I say, absolutely love this series. The characters are all strong and down to earth as you can get. They all struggle with daily life and chores. In Mastermind we meet hot and tempting Omar and Juliana. Will they let fate tempt them or go for it.
February 8, 2022
Everything that Omar touch appears to turn to gold from his career as a professional athlete to the investment company he created after finishing college but there is far more to the man than first appears. His complicated family relationships have him leaving Houston to take a year long hiatus in London where he meets Juliana. When he meets her through a mutual friend, he finally pursues the woman he has been attracted to from the moment he saw her.
Juliana is focused on becoming a lawyer and leaving her devastating past where it belongs. She has been attracted to Omar since he first came into the pub where she works but doesn’t imagine he would be interested in her. What started out as a fling before he returned to Houston turns into so much more but will the past she is trying to escape destroy the future she is trying to build?
An epic romance between two captivating characters that is challenged by secrets and complicated family relationships. Omar and Juliana are perfection as they support each other through every surprise that life throws at them.
Juliana is focused on becoming a lawyer and leaving her devastating past where it belongs. She has been attracted to Omar since he first came into the pub where she works but doesn’t imagine he would be interested in her. What started out as a fling before he returned to Houston turns into so much more but will the past she is trying to escape destroy the future she is trying to build?
An epic romance between two captivating characters that is challenged by secrets and complicated family relationships. Omar and Juliana are perfection as they support each other through every surprise that life throws at them.
February 13, 2022
Smart, insightful and brimming with all the feels, this author proves once again that she’s a masterful wordsmith!
This read was such a satisfying treat for the senses I couldn’t put it down!
I’ve been a huge fan of the Rivers Wild series, so I was super excited to read this new installment and I can easily say it surpassed my expectations!
While this book can be read and enjoyed as a standalone, in my opinion, reading the prior installments offers insight into the history and family dynamics. If for no other reason, the prior books in this series are just amazing stories that are simply must reads.
The “mastermind” of this story takes us on a seductive, intense and suspenseful journey full of passion and intrigue. Things are not what they appear in this insta-attraction romance!
Brimming with all the feels, Omar and Juliana’s story was unique with plot twists I never saw coming. Omar was one of those characters that you can’t help fall in love with. His connection to Juliana was sexy, emotional and full of unexpected surprises!
Oh but Juliana has deep dark secrets…
You must read and find out!
This is one of those reads that’s more than a romance, it’s about love, second chances and new discovery. Now the only issue for me was that given Jules’s secret, the ending was too rushed. However it didn’t take away from enjoying this read.
I hope we get more!
4.5 stars!
This read was such a satisfying treat for the senses I couldn’t put it down!
I’ve been a huge fan of the Rivers Wild series, so I was super excited to read this new installment and I can easily say it surpassed my expectations!
While this book can be read and enjoyed as a standalone, in my opinion, reading the prior installments offers insight into the history and family dynamics. If for no other reason, the prior books in this series are just amazing stories that are simply must reads.
The “mastermind” of this story takes us on a seductive, intense and suspenseful journey full of passion and intrigue. Things are not what they appear in this insta-attraction romance!
Brimming with all the feels, Omar and Juliana’s story was unique with plot twists I never saw coming. Omar was one of those characters that you can’t help fall in love with. His connection to Juliana was sexy, emotional and full of unexpected surprises!
Oh but Juliana has deep dark secrets…
You must read and find out!
This is one of those reads that’s more than a romance, it’s about love, second chances and new discovery. Now the only issue for me was that given Jules’s secret, the ending was too rushed. However it didn’t take away from enjoying this read.
I hope we get more!
4.5 stars!
February 8, 2022
This was a really enjoyable story it's a little longer than normal novellas but just short of full book. I liked Jules and Omar both individually and as a couple. The story is full of passion it is both a sweet romantic love story and one with mystery and suspense. I liked the way we got to know both main characters and what happened in their pasts but also how it impacts their lives in the present. The way the author spent a lot of time on their love story from the way they meet to combating all their insecurities to a deep passionate love story made me happy. I did enjoy the twists the storyline took I just would have liked the results of the revelations to be explored in more detail. We also get to see how some previous Rivers Wilde charcters are doing which was a bonus.
February 8, 2022
Welcome back to Rivers Wilde.....and what a great visit indeed!
The Mastermind is perfection. Omar and Jules each carry their own set of baggage. Both feeling not quite good enough, both striving for more, both finding what they need in each other. Passion, off the charts chemistry and angsty intrigue are woven together in the most perfect way. I didn’t want to put this book down once I started but *sigh* their HEA was so worth the wait!!
The Mastermind is perfection. Omar and Jules each carry their own set of baggage. Both feeling not quite good enough, both striving for more, both finding what they need in each other. Passion, off the charts chemistry and angsty intrigue are woven together in the most perfect way. I didn’t want to put this book down once I started but *sigh* their HEA was so worth the wait!!
February 8, 2022
I am such a fan of Dylan's Rivers Wilde world so this was an easy yes please to read. I found Jules super endearing and easy to connect to. I felt the world on Omar's shoulders. I fell in love along with them. There was enough drama to keep me guessing. They were steamy and their chemistry was on fire! Such a great book!
February 3, 2022
Nothing makes me happier then when I pick up one of Ms. Allen’s books. And going back to Rivers Wilde is like icing on the cake. I couldn’t put this book down. And I can’t wait for more words from Ms. Allen!!!
February 8, 2022
The Mastermind is a masterpiece! Omar and Jules are addicting and I couldn’t get enough!
This story was truly gripping from start to finish I couldn’t put it down! Getting to see both Omar and Jules grow and learn to love not only themselves but each other was mesmerizing! I love the slices of Riverswilde we get but more importantly I love how this story really embraces redemption and healing! The deeper messages of Allen’s novels keep me hooked on her writing and this book is a reminder of the beauty of her words. The Mastermind is a definite must read for anyone who needs to reminded of their worth and to never stop fighting for what you deserve!
This story was truly gripping from start to finish I couldn’t put it down! Getting to see both Omar and Jules grow and learn to love not only themselves but each other was mesmerizing! I love the slices of Riverswilde we get but more importantly I love how this story really embraces redemption and healing! The deeper messages of Allen’s novels keep me hooked on her writing and this book is a reminder of the beauty of her words. The Mastermind is a definite must read for anyone who needs to reminded of their worth and to never stop fighting for what you deserve!
February 11, 2022
Suspense, angst, romance, it’s all in this intriguing story. I loved going back to Rivers Wilde and catching up with the characters from previous stories. Omar and Jules had chemistry and passion. This is one of Dylan Allen’s best!
February 8, 2022
I enjoyed Omar and Jules story! I always get emotionally involved in Dylan Allen’s books. Omar is a true dreamboat and Jules is just amazing. I really love Jules and her drive. Omar and Jules are truly a team as they tackle things that come up and I love that about them. I was into all the cameos from prior Dylan Allen books too! Solid 5 stars!
February 12, 2022
Absolutely Beautiful!!
One of the most beautiful books I've read in the last few years!
I always enjoying reading the Rivers Wilde families, the drama, the angst, quite frankly wondering who is set out to destroy who this time, and Dylan Allen never disappoints!
Omar and Jules not-so-meet-cute takes place in her bar after weeks of their dancing around each other, each of them paying an exquisite amount of attention to the other without their knowing. Unfortunately when Jules sneaks up on Omar and catches him unprepared the consequences are more than she was looking for, and he accidentally rearranges her nose.
The things I loved most about these characters were there strength, their unabashed love for each other - no matter what was in their way, and their willingness to apologize, and forgive.
When we first meet Omar he doesn't seem capable of forgiveness, or even apology, but his humility is shocking. His willingness to learn from those around him, from friends who know more and are willing to teach, and Omar's continued willingness to pick that phone back up and continue the conversation. No relationship is really dead, so long as we are willing to continue to communicate - no matter how hard it is.
Jules was a harder character for me to learn, but wow, the love she has to give! She's been trapped in such a lonely life for so long, keeping herself to herself, that when she's finally able to love with everything she has, she just pours it all over Omar. I think he was stunned by how much she wanted from him, and how fast he thought it was, when she thought they were going so slow, but dang! Once Omar and Jules really got together, they lit up the night!! Even in a non-sexual way, they are so smokin hot together!!
Dylan Allen's Mastermind is brilliant, beautiful, and super sexy! Omar and Jules are loving, humble, and above all human. They are not afraid to show each other their flaws, and their strengths. 5 stars for this gorgeous, sexy novella! I can't WAIT to get back to Rivers Wilde soon!!
One of the most beautiful books I've read in the last few years!
I always enjoying reading the Rivers Wilde families, the drama, the angst, quite frankly wondering who is set out to destroy who this time, and Dylan Allen never disappoints!
Omar and Jules not-so-meet-cute takes place in her bar after weeks of their dancing around each other, each of them paying an exquisite amount of attention to the other without their knowing. Unfortunately when Jules sneaks up on Omar and catches him unprepared the consequences are more than she was looking for, and he accidentally rearranges her nose.
The things I loved most about these characters were there strength, their unabashed love for each other - no matter what was in their way, and their willingness to apologize, and forgive.
When we first meet Omar he doesn't seem capable of forgiveness, or even apology, but his humility is shocking. His willingness to learn from those around him, from friends who know more and are willing to teach, and Omar's continued willingness to pick that phone back up and continue the conversation. No relationship is really dead, so long as we are willing to continue to communicate - no matter how hard it is.
Jules was a harder character for me to learn, but wow, the love she has to give! She's been trapped in such a lonely life for so long, keeping herself to herself, that when she's finally able to love with everything she has, she just pours it all over Omar. I think he was stunned by how much she wanted from him, and how fast he thought it was, when she thought they were going so slow, but dang! Once Omar and Jules really got together, they lit up the night!! Even in a non-sexual way, they are so smokin hot together!!
Dylan Allen's Mastermind is brilliant, beautiful, and super sexy! Omar and Jules are loving, humble, and above all human. They are not afraid to show each other their flaws, and their strengths. 5 stars for this gorgeous, sexy novella! I can't WAIT to get back to Rivers Wilde soon!!
February 9, 2022
Dylan Allen has a beautiful way with words. The Mastermind is well written, steamy , intense and entertaining. Set in our favorite world River’s Wilde. Omar and Juliana are a masterpiece as a couple. They are perfection at best, though secrets threaten their happiness, we see growth as they evolve. As readers, we get to see true character development from this couple and it is beautiful to read. Omar is fantastic, though things were supposed to be temporary, Omar only plays for keeps because letting in someone is not easy for him! I love this couple and they are a perfect combo. Dylan Allen knows how to deliver heartfelt romance that feels like everyday couples. Imperfect people who are perfect for each other.
February 8, 2022
Two broken people come together for one absolutely beautiful and epic love story.
Dylan Allen delivers the most amazing and heartfelt love stories each and every time.
I couldn't put this book down. From start to finish it was everything I love in a romance book. Real characters who have past trauma come together in one of my favorite cities!
I loved how far both Omar and Jules came. The steam was off the charts. With every Dylan Allen book I feel like I need more! The mystery in this book was really good, I spent half of the book wondering what Jules was hiding. It was written so beyond well.
I'm looking forward to see what this brilliant author has in store for us next. 5 stars!
I received an ARC for my opinion.
Dylan Allen delivers the most amazing and heartfelt love stories each and every time.
I couldn't put this book down. From start to finish it was everything I love in a romance book. Real characters who have past trauma come together in one of my favorite cities!
I loved how far both Omar and Jules came. The steam was off the charts. With every Dylan Allen book I feel like I need more! The mystery in this book was really good, I spent half of the book wondering what Jules was hiding. It was written so beyond well.
I'm looking forward to see what this brilliant author has in store for us next. 5 stars!
I received an ARC for my opinion.
February 8, 2022
The Mastermind (Rivers Wilde Novella) is AMAZING and I’m so happy that Omar finally got his turn to shine. Omar and Jules are a beautiful and meaningful couple and such well written characters. Ms. Allen weaves a fantastic and appealing storyline with depth, intrigue and heartfelt moments. Also, there’s just enough drama and mystery to keep you on edge as well as an unexpected and shocking twist.
And hands down, this is one of the sexiest couples I’ve ever read. The sensual heat and undeniable chemistry between them is oh so passionate.
It’s also wonderful to see that characters from Ms. Allen’s previous books make guest appearances. A new family is introduced to the Rivers Wilde world and I’m highly anticipating and hoping Ms. Allen will write books about them. Omar and Jules will always hold a special place in my heart and The Mastermind is definitely worth reading.
And hands down, this is one of the sexiest couples I’ve ever read. The sensual heat and undeniable chemistry between them is oh so passionate.
It’s also wonderful to see that characters from Ms. Allen’s previous books make guest appearances. A new family is introduced to the Rivers Wilde world and I’m highly anticipating and hoping Ms. Allen will write books about them. Omar and Jules will always hold a special place in my heart and The Mastermind is definitely worth reading.
February 10, 2022
Jules has such a big secret that she's been living under the radar for a cool minute, so she's not about to get close to anyone. Omar has had success in whatever he does, but he's facing his toughest challenge yet when he comes face to face with Jules. See, he wants her but she's gun shy (not that she wasn't attracted to him) because of her big secret so let the games begin. I loved them together, but more than that, I was on the edge of my seat waiting for the answers as the twists & teasing were making me crazy LOL! The Mastermind is listed as a novella, but it's more on the short(ish) side which is between novella & full length story, and man I wanted so much more! Dylan Allen is a brilliant author in my eyes as I haven't come across a book by her that I didn't love with everything in me, so now it's your turn! HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
February 8, 2022
Overall Grade: 4.5 ⭐️
Nothing makes me happier than a new story, a new angle to Dylan Allen’s Rivers Wilde world. Her newest story, The Mastermind, introduces us to Omar, a recent transplant to the Houston area and a former footballer turned businessman intent on changing the local landscape with his investments. When the trauma and grief of his past send him back to England where he played football, he meets the gorgeous, independent, ambitious Jules, a local barrister in training. They connect at a mutual friends’ birthday party, but they had observed each other from afar at the local pub where Jules works part-time. Emboldened, Jules flirts with Omar who tries to keep her at a distance, but he is completely attracted to her, and his will breaks. Over the course of several weeks, these two fall deeply into love and lust, and fairly quickly, Jules moves into Omar’s home. Believing that their happily ever after is nigh, the ghosts of Jules past come to haunt her. When Omar finds out, will he still want her? Will Omar finally face his own family and return to Rivers Wilde to make amends? Will Jules and Omar ever find their happy ending?
The Mastermind is a multi-layered scintillating romance. As she does so beautifully, Allen crafts two characters with trauma as their foundation who need each other to mend those hurts. Omar and Jules are beautifully constructed from the start. They fall madly in love with each other. Their love is never really questioned throughout this story. Instead, another hallmark of Allen’s romances, steam, burns the pages between these two. There is a moment when you wonder if they can overcome their pasts, but Allen hardly makes her readers wait in reconciling them. Instead, she treats her readers to the development of more facets of her Rivers Wilde world. For me, beyond adoring Omar’s complete adoration of Jules and loving her strong womanhood, the most exciting part of The Mastermind is the introduction of new characters into this world. When Allen published The Daredevil, I was worried that we would have to leave this universe. However, this new book promises so much more. Two words: Noah. Royale.
If you’ve loved Dylan Allen’s Rivers Wilde world, then you will want The Mastermind. It’s clear that she has more planned for those of us who adore her characters and their stories in this universe. Even more, if you’re a fan of a hero who is seemingly a player, but falls madly for his heroine, and a heroine who has the strength of character to endure the challenges of life only to be loved fiercely through its unraveling, then you MUST read Allen’s newest book.
Nothing makes me happier than a new story, a new angle to Dylan Allen’s Rivers Wilde world. Her newest story, The Mastermind, introduces us to Omar, a recent transplant to the Houston area and a former footballer turned businessman intent on changing the local landscape with his investments. When the trauma and grief of his past send him back to England where he played football, he meets the gorgeous, independent, ambitious Jules, a local barrister in training. They connect at a mutual friends’ birthday party, but they had observed each other from afar at the local pub where Jules works part-time. Emboldened, Jules flirts with Omar who tries to keep her at a distance, but he is completely attracted to her, and his will breaks. Over the course of several weeks, these two fall deeply into love and lust, and fairly quickly, Jules moves into Omar’s home. Believing that their happily ever after is nigh, the ghosts of Jules past come to haunt her. When Omar finds out, will he still want her? Will Omar finally face his own family and return to Rivers Wilde to make amends? Will Jules and Omar ever find their happy ending?
The Mastermind is a multi-layered scintillating romance. As she does so beautifully, Allen crafts two characters with trauma as their foundation who need each other to mend those hurts. Omar and Jules are beautifully constructed from the start. They fall madly in love with each other. Their love is never really questioned throughout this story. Instead, another hallmark of Allen’s romances, steam, burns the pages between these two. There is a moment when you wonder if they can overcome their pasts, but Allen hardly makes her readers wait in reconciling them. Instead, she treats her readers to the development of more facets of her Rivers Wilde world. For me, beyond adoring Omar’s complete adoration of Jules and loving her strong womanhood, the most exciting part of The Mastermind is the introduction of new characters into this world. When Allen published The Daredevil, I was worried that we would have to leave this universe. However, this new book promises so much more. Two words: Noah. Royale.
If you’ve loved Dylan Allen’s Rivers Wilde world, then you will want The Mastermind. It’s clear that she has more planned for those of us who adore her characters and their stories in this universe. Even more, if you’re a fan of a hero who is seemingly a player, but falls madly for his heroine, and a heroine who has the strength of character to endure the challenges of life only to be loved fiercely through its unraveling, then you MUST read Allen’s newest book.
February 10, 2022
The Mastermind is the first book I've read by Dylan Allen or in the A Rivers Wilde series and after reading it I really want to check out the rest of this series. I loved that The Mastermind was part running from your past/false identity, murder mystery, and a normal romance novel all in one. And even though I knew that Omar was going to find out Jules' secrets and it was going to end badly I still was really curious to see what was going to happen, cause when you're reading a book nothing is more annoying that when you predict everything that's going to happen with no twists. But The Mastermind still left me wondering what was going to happen next. One of my main complaints about this book isn't about the book it's self or one of the main characters, but with a few of the side characters. I just really did not like how Omar's dad and sister really dismissed how he felt about his mother and her death, both of them kept acting like he should just move on and forget about her because she left him as a child because she had addiction problems. And that just never really sat well with me, but I did appreciate that Dylan had Omar stick to his guns and continue to mourn his mother the way he thinks he should.
When Jules was a teenager she was accused of a crime she didn't commit and at the advice of her lawyer she plead guilty. As an adult she is hiding from her past by using a different name, the only problem is she didn't write her real name down for her law degree or her job as a lawyer because she knew that her criminal record would have stopped her from getting her degree. So when her past foster brother and friends shows up threatening to tell everyone the truth about her she has no choice but to give in to his demands. And Jules continues to do this without a though until she meets and starts dating Omar...
Omar is in London to take a break from his work and his family after the death of his estranged mother to renovate a house that he purchased there. Omar didn't anticipate meeting Jules at a party and instantly starting to feel things for her that he had never felt for anyone else. Just when everything is going well in their relationship Jules' secrets start to come to light... Will her secrets destroy everything they've built together?
When Jules was a teenager she was accused of a crime she didn't commit and at the advice of her lawyer she plead guilty. As an adult she is hiding from her past by using a different name, the only problem is she didn't write her real name down for her law degree or her job as a lawyer because she knew that her criminal record would have stopped her from getting her degree. So when her past foster brother and friends shows up threatening to tell everyone the truth about her she has no choice but to give in to his demands. And Jules continues to do this without a though until she meets and starts dating Omar...
Omar is in London to take a break from his work and his family after the death of his estranged mother to renovate a house that he purchased there. Omar didn't anticipate meeting Jules at a party and instantly starting to feel things for her that he had never felt for anyone else. Just when everything is going well in their relationship Jules' secrets start to come to light... Will her secrets destroy everything they've built together?
February 9, 2022
The book-hug that I often long for has come in the form of Omar and Jules in The Mastermind. Reading a Dylan Allen novel comes with a familiar warmth that I crave as a romance reader, and she never disappoints.
This love story is deliciously sexy, fervent, tense, and truly indulgent. I found myself getting swept away with how they drowned themselves in one another. The way they get lost in one another is pure intoxication.
With quite an interesting plot and backstory, these two are faced with hurdles that are intricate, and can possibly place a screaming halt on their budding romance. Family turmoil stagnant with resentment and long lasting grief add to their complications as well as their closeness. To add to their misery, noteworthy villains and friction-starters lend to their trouble in paradise.
However difficult these issues proved to be, they impart to the foundation of finding themselves in one another. How they come to be, unravels with the ultimate sweetness and satisfaction. Their story is one of inner struggles bringing them closer to one another. It’s one reason I came adore these two. Their ability to get over their own fears and be vulnerable. It’s all put together in a very snug and swoon-worthy package.
When I read an Allen story, it really is like coming home to visit. The Mastermind intermingles past Allen novels. Bringing back characters and places that we’ve come to love and hold in a special part of our hearts. She introduces us to new characters that intertwine with the old, allowing us to make more room for new ones to fall in love with. Bringing life to characters that are multi-faceted is her specialty. In The Mastermind, Dylan Allen piques your interest by guiding you through a new part of the old world with vivid and tangible descriptions. They are truly enticing and unforgettable.
This love story is deliciously sexy, fervent, tense, and truly indulgent. I found myself getting swept away with how they drowned themselves in one another. The way they get lost in one another is pure intoxication.
With quite an interesting plot and backstory, these two are faced with hurdles that are intricate, and can possibly place a screaming halt on their budding romance. Family turmoil stagnant with resentment and long lasting grief add to their complications as well as their closeness. To add to their misery, noteworthy villains and friction-starters lend to their trouble in paradise.
However difficult these issues proved to be, they impart to the foundation of finding themselves in one another. How they come to be, unravels with the ultimate sweetness and satisfaction. Their story is one of inner struggles bringing them closer to one another. It’s one reason I came adore these two. Their ability to get over their own fears and be vulnerable. It’s all put together in a very snug and swoon-worthy package.
When I read an Allen story, it really is like coming home to visit. The Mastermind intermingles past Allen novels. Bringing back characters and places that we’ve come to love and hold in a special part of our hearts. She introduces us to new characters that intertwine with the old, allowing us to make more room for new ones to fall in love with. Bringing life to characters that are multi-faceted is her specialty. In The Mastermind, Dylan Allen piques your interest by guiding you through a new part of the old world with vivid and tangible descriptions. They are truly enticing and unforgettable.
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