In Morgan Brice's Thunder Road, the seventh installment of the Badlands series, psychic detectives Simon and Vic return from their honeymoon to a whirlwind of supernatural cases. Mysterious disappearances plague a cursed motorcycle club, linked to an ancient entity demanding yearly sacrifices. Simultaneously, fading protective spells around automated lighthouses unleash an ancient evil, growing stronger with each victim. Simon and Vic must combine their psychic abilities and rely on their found family – including helpful ghosts and brave motorcyclists – to unravel the intertwined mysteries. This action-packed MM paranormal romance delivers thrilling suspense, heartwarming hurt/comfort, and a deepening relationship between Simon and Vic, all against a backdrop of old magic and terrifying creatures.
Review Thunder Road
Oh my goodness, I just finished "Thunder Road," and I'm buzzing! Morgan Brice has done it again – another fantastic installment in the Badlands series that perfectly blends thrilling paranormal mystery with a heartwarming, established romance. I absolutely adored seeing Simon and Vic back in action, newlyweds and still utterly captivating. Their honeymoon might be over, but the adventures certainly aren't, and that’s exactly what makes this series so much fun.
This book throws everything at them: missing persons, a cursed motorcycle club, a seriously ancient and powerful entity, and the fading magic protecting the Carolina coast – all stemming from the automation of the lighthouses! The way Brice weaves together these seemingly disparate threads is masterful. It's like a beautifully intricate tapestry, with each element adding depth and complexity to the overall narrative. The mystery unfolds at a fantastic pace, keeping you guessing right until the very end. I loved the blend of urban fantasy elements with the historical context woven into the lighthouse magic – it felt incredibly rich and unique.
And let's not forget the supporting cast! The "found family" aspect of this series remains one of its greatest strengths. Seeing Simon and Vic rally their network of priests, root workers, and other magical practitioners, along with an unexpected alliance with a biker gang, was incredibly satisfying. The familiar faces from previous books—Mrs. Eppie and Father Anne, in particular—added a comforting layer of continuity and depth. Even Ross, Vic's ever-reliable police partner, provided his signature dry wit to lighten the intense moments. It felt like catching up with old friends, and that familiarity only enhanced the emotional connection to the story.
The romantic aspect between Simon and Vic shines through, too. Their relationship isn't just a backdrop; it’s the strong foundation upon which the story's emotional core rests. Their connection feels real, genuine, and deeply satisfying to witness. Watching their love grow and evolve throughout the series has been a real highlight, and "Thunder Road" continues this beautiful trend. It’s a testament to Brice's skill that even after years of adventures, their relationship feels fresh and engaging.
The overarching threat in this book was also brilliantly conceived. It’s a clever departure from the typical ghosts and goblins we often see in paranormal romances, adding a unique layer of suspense and intrigue. The ancient entity’s deal with the biker gang, and the escalating stakes as the coastal protections weaken, maintained a consistent level of tension throughout.
In short, “Thunder Road” is a must-read for anyone who enjoys a well-crafted paranormal romance with compelling characters, engaging mysteries, and a healthy dose of action and humor. It perfectly captures the series' charm, and even with the happy ending of the last book, it manages to deliver another emotional and exciting journey with Simon and Vic. I couldn’t put it down!
Information
- Dimensions: 6 x 0.47 x 9 inches
- Language: English
- Print length: 186
- Publication date: 2025
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