In a world ruled by power, desire can be deadly.
Death Before a Hookup
by Alicia Rice
Genre: Romantic Suspense, Thriller
In the heart of two cities divided by rivalries, it unveils a compelling narrative of passion, ambition, and transformation.
James, a steadfast leader striving for progress, faces the complex dynamics of a changing world as he partners with Evelleyne, a boss from a rival gang. Against an ongoing feud between the Northside Ryders and the River Syndicates, a symbol of new possibilities, the characters embark on a journey of self-discovery, secrets, adoration, and resilience. The flames of change burn brightly, forging alliances, shattering expectations, and ultimately illuminating the path to redemption.
Prepare for a tale of love, loyalty, and redemption set against conflict and transformation. As the characters navigate the complexities of their choices, the story explores the resilience of the human spirit and the indomitable power of love to endure even in the darkest times.
“The perfect enemies-to-lovers novel with Romeo and Juliet vibes. Gritty, emotional and utterly unputdownable!”
“Evelyne and James’ love story was beautifully made. I was torn apart by the tragic ending.”
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Where are you, baby? You know I hate waiting,” says Evelleyne, her breath briefly fogging the reflected outline of her bare shoulder on her phone’s screen.”
“I just got out of the shower. Give me about fifteen minutes, and I’ll be there,” said James.
“You could have waited on the shower, baby. You’ll be hot and sweaty as soon as I let you in the door.”
“Is that so? Well, let me hurry up then. Sounds like I’m going to have my work cut out for me tonight.”
“You have no idea.”
“Let me finish here. I’ll see you in a bit.”
“Okay, baby. Be careful. No speeding tickets this time.”
“I can’t make any promises. You know I can’t wait to get to you, girl.”
“I know, baby, but I’m not going anywhere, so there’s no need to rush. Just know your girl is waiting on you—with nothing on.”
“See, that’s what makes me break the law getting to your house.”
Evelleyne laughs. “You’re so cute when you’re possessive.”
“Yeah, and I’m the luckiest man alive to have you in my life. I’m gone; see you in a few.”
“Okay, baby.”
Evelleyne sits on the window ledge, gazing out into the night. The moon is high, and its white light glistens on her voluptuous, tanned body. Her heart beats faster, and she can barely catch her breath as she tightens the grip on her cell phone.
James is rushing down the steps, ready to see his beloved. He hears a soft, shaky voice as he’s about to hit the “end call” button on his cell phone.
“I love you, James,” says Evelleyne.
“I’ll see you soon,” he shyly responds.
Evelleyne gazed at the night sky, and a tear rolled down her cheek. She knows James loves her, but he won’t say it—he’s proved that. Still, she wants to hear it from his lips.
James hopped in his Chrysler 300. Though excited to see Evelleyne, he’s nervous before starting the car. His mind drifted through the chapters of his life, a journey marked by unexpected turns and profound transformations.
He thought back to the days when he rose through the ranks, becoming an underboss for the Northside Ryders. The choices, alliances forged, and conflicts navigated shaped him into a formidable figure in the city’s underworld.
Meeting Evelleyne was a turning point. Her strength, resilience, and unwavering spirit drew him in. Love blossomed amidst the chaos, a beacon of light in the shadows of their tumultuous world. Together, they dared to dream of a different future.
Alicia Rice is a multi-genre author, leadership development strategist, and speaker whose work explores power, choice, resilience, and the human condition. She is the author of several compelling titles, including Historian of the Wasteland, a gripping dystopian series that challenges readers to examine what survives when systems collapse — and what should.
By day, Alicia serves as a Learning & Development leader, designing leadership programs that empower emerging and senior leaders to lead with courage, justice, and accountability. By night, she writes stories that explore generational trauma, moral conflict, and the quiet strength of those history often overlooks. Her work is deeply influenced by her grandmother’s encouragement, who nurtured her love of storytelling from a young age and instilled in her the belief that her voice mattered.
When she’s not writing or mentoring, Alicia is either gaming or building platforms that connect authors, leaders, and lifelong learners through purpose-driven dialogue
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Mar 13
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Karen J. Mossman – World of Stories
Word Processor, Romance, Cats, Kids and Creed
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Book Reviews by the Reluctant Retiree
Mar 18
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The cover looks amazing. Sounds like a really good story.
Looks very exciting Do you write in a daily journal?
Romantic Suspense, Thriller - love this genre!
Promises to be an exciting read.
Thank you for the excerpt.