Description
Armed with revelations that could flip their world upside down, the Off the Books Task Force is diving into a case that’s as unpredictable as a coin toss. This time, they’ve assembled a full house, and it’s not a poker game.
Brantley Walker and Reese Tavoularis are still at the helm, but they’re taking a backseat, letting their two newest team members take the wheel. At Brantley’s behest, Atticus James and Archer Halligan are stepping up to the plate as team leaders, ready to swing for the fences.
With a to-do list that includes interrogating a mob boss and searching a former team member’s childhood residence, the task force is chasing leads across the great state of Texas. While new information keeps them moving, relationships are being put through the wringer, while new, unexpected ones are forming.
Can the team find more than smoke and mirrors to pin their hopes on, or will they end up in a tangled web of intrigue and unexpected alliances?
Saturday, October 1, 2022…
This book picks up where the previous one ends. If I give you a preview, it’ll be a spoiler. 🙂
AUDIO
Publication Date: In Production
Publisher: Nicole Edwards Limited
ISBN: 9781644181119
Narrators: Tor Thom & Fiona Clare
COVER DETAILS
Design By: Nicole Edwards Limited
Cover Image Copyright:© vectorwin
Brantley Walker: Off the Books
Ever wanted to pull back the curtain and peek into the lives of your favorite characters? Well, I do, and frankly, it got me thinking—what if we had a front-row seat to their adventures?
I’m an unapologetic series junkie, especially those that take us on a winding journey with the same protagonists. And because my heart has a soft spot for love stories, I thought, why not follow a delightful gay couple while adding in some supporting characters for comic relief? After all, what’s a love story without a bit of drama and plenty of laughs? Cue the task force, a dynamic element to keep the plot twists rolling and the pages turning.
Oh, and for those already wondering—yes, the Brantley Walker: Off the Books series is far from over! If you want to keep track of all the shenanigans, make sure to sign up for my Ramblings of a Writer blog and be the first to know what I’m concocting next. Trust me, you won’t want to miss a chapter!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 stars for Brantley Walker: Off the Books ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
“This book captivated from the first line to the last word, it’s exciting, it’s great writing and it’s has wonderful characters old and new.” ~Jackie W on Goodreads [All In]
“This series keeps getting more complex and interesting with each installment. I am so happy to finally have Reese and Brantley in a place where they feel rock steady. SO rock steady that Brantley is counting down the days until the wedding and I CANNOT with how much I love the way they love each other.” ~Aviecelli on Goodreads [Off Course]
“This book it the basis of what love is. It shows you family, life, and what you should strive for in the end game. Brilliant, and beautiful.” ~Meghann R on Goodreads [Alibi]
“This book was amazing!! And it’s not just because I love Brantley and Reese, because I do! It’s the growing love and passion between these two that jumps off the pages and smacks you upside your head.” ~Christina I on Goodreads [Hide & Seek]
“Everything we have been waiting for we get in spades (that bachelor weekend!!) and I loved every single second of it. I am also enjoying seeing other relationships evolve aside from the grooms – I am really excited to see what happens next with Atticus and Slade.” ~Amanda V on Goodreads [To Have and to Hold]
“As always Nicole Edwards draws me into the world of suspense, angst, PTSD, a lot of steam, the off the books team’s many relationships both romantic and non romantic and the beautiful romances between Brantley and Reese and JJ and Baz.” ~Sofie on Goodreads [Bounty]
“With each book I fall more and more in love with these characters.” ~Renee on Goodreads [Deadly Coincidence]
“So much heart stopping action in this book and I was on the edge of my seat. The idea of anything happening to JJ had me wanting to jump into the book and go rogue..” ~Mabel on Goodreads [Chain Reaction]
Katie –
Wow! Nicole Edwards is back with an amazing addition to the Brantley Walker series. While I have loved reading Nicole’s book for years, this one is special. Almost like I could feel her joy and love of writing leap off the page again. The storylines were intricate, intense and kept me desperate for more. This book could have been 100 more pages and I’m not sure it would have been enough. I can’t wait to see where the team, especially Brantley, Reese, Travis and Gage go from here. It was also so fun to see Atticus and Archer take the lead in this huge case that continues to unfold. Here’s to hoping the next book is right around the corner because it’s a series I can’t forget about!
Betty Gould –
This was everything I was expecting and more. It seem like just when I figured something out I was wrong! The dynamics between Archer and Atticus have me wanting them to go for it but then I want Atticus and Slade. I can’t wait to read the next one.
Annette Elens –
To say this book is a romantic suspense is an understatement. The romance is hot and the suspense will keep you on the edge of your seat. You get Brantley and Reese along with the rest of the task force. There’s so much going on you have to pay attention. Strap yourself in for the ride of your life with this one!!
Lea Cooch –
The task force picks up where we left off from the previous book, with an explanation of the dead stop, holy cow what did Nicole do in the last book.
In this book we find that Atticus and Archer are fighting an attraction to each other that gets them thinking of their present relationships. I hope to see more of that because the Atticus/Slade/Carson, whatever it is, was starting to grate on my nerves. We see more of the love between Brantley and Reese, they are so in tune we each other, it’s great to see a great partnership. JJ and Baz finally bring the twins home, Evan is second guessing his relationship with Becs, (fingers crossed), Travis and Gage get involved as the realization that Kylie might be alive.
Loved this book!
Nancy J Mussari –
Nicole has done it again! Wow! The Off the Books task team takes on a tremendous task and has the reader guessing and guessing. How will this end, good, bad, or somewhere in between. Where does the story end? Wonderful reading. I love all the episodes of this group. And I imagine all the guys are downright handsome.
Erin Lewis –
5 Star Review Smoke and Mirrors (Brantley Walker: Off The Books #13) by Nicole Edwards After the ending of the previous book, I could not wait to dive in to Smoke and Mirrors. This book was everything I was expecting and so much more. This was a gripping edge of your seat read that will keep you guessing. The characters of Atticus James and Archer Halligan are centre stage in this book as team leaders. This was a fast paced, suspenseful story about that will draw you in and hold you captive and you will have a hard time putting this one down.
Cheryl Cholger –
I have so much to say, and so little I can say without spoiling the whole book. I’ll start with the reminder that this is not a standalone story. If you haven’t read the previous books, go back and do so. You won’t regret it. If you’ve been along for the ride since the beginning of the Task Force, you know what the main course of this book is going to be. I’m going to start with the appetizers.
To my great joy, Evan and Becs are partnered up again. Not that they have figured things out, but I love the pining between these two, and it makes me smile when the author forces them to share the same space. And, of course, I love seeing JJ and Baz with their babies. The twins are given just enough time to, once again, make me smile, but not so much that it messes with the flow of the story.
I’ve mentioned in previous books how much the Atticus/Slade/Carson relationship intrigued me. We all know Slade is messing that up, and things come to a head in this book. I don’t know where any of these three will end up (I have a slight idea for Atticus, but even that is iffy), but it breaks my heart that insecurities and past issues get in their way so much. Someone needs to flat-out tell Slade to go to therapy! Atticus has, since he’s joined the Task Force, learned his worth and is not willing to compromise being valued and loved the way he deserves for crazy hot sex. I love that for him.
Which brings me to the main course. Atticus and Archer are partnered up by Brantley to investigate the information that was uncovered regarding a rogue FBI group and what they may have to do with Kylie’s death almost two years ago. It was great seeing this duo work together, and I loved the references to how well they meshed, and it being reminiscent of Brantley and Reese when they first started the Task Force. Atticus has really come into his own, and Archer is a fabulous addition to the team. This story pulls Travis and Gage into the mix a time or two and is, overall, a very emotional case for everyone. Things are high stakes, and nobody is sleeping on the job.
Although there is still a lot of work to do, there are also some issues that have been resolved. Happy endings, new beginnings, and more mysteries to uncover. There are a lot of twists and turns to this story, and there are many questions still unanswered. I’m here for it all.
Teresa M –
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️10 STARS ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
ABSOLUTELY BRILLIANT!
Just when you think this series can’t get any better Nicole absolutely knocks it out of the park. This book is so good I don’t think she will be able to better it.
(For the record she will because she’s brilliant but it’s just so fantastic!)
This book jumps right in from the Mic Drop at the end of the last book, that was an absolute doozy and left us all desperate for this story. The story runs at a fast pace and there’s a lot of big characters taking up space and getting involved.
I’m absolutely loving the Atticus and Archer partnership, they’ve got really good chemistry together and complement each other so well. I wasn’t sure there would be abit of an ego clash as Archer has come across as quite a strong personality previously but I was pleased to see how well they gelled.
For the record Slade can take a long walk of the nearest short cliff, I find him so irritating now and it’s getting worse with each book. I know I should have empathy for him but he just annoys the hell out of me. I want better for Atticus. I dislike Carson almost as much, he uses people for his own fun then discards them and I’m not here for that. I get that he tries to be upfront about it in general but I don’t feel that’s the case in this situation. I’m definitely Team Atticus.
Brantley and Reese are still just as yummy as always. I adore their relationship and love seeing how married life has settled for them. They’re such a strong team and I adore how much they support each other. It’s interesting to see them try to take a step back in this investigation all the while topping from the bottom 😂. It’s understandable that they need someone at the helm that doesn’t have a personal connection but you can really feel how hard it is for Brantley.
It’s always good to catch up with Travis, I’ve always enjoyed him but I’ve loved Gage from his first appearance back at the start of this family saga. He’s one of my favourite characters so I love getting him back for abit.
JJ and Baz are in such a good place now and it’s delightful to finally have the twins here and all is well.
This story is full of twists and turns and it plays out really well, I thoroughly enjoyed all the different characters and how they influenced the story. And although the resolution involved one of my least favourite characters it’s a very satisfying ending and will make for a great story in itself.
Barb Kiser –
I don’t know what to say! This has been a long time coming. The OFF THE BOOKS TASK FORCE are back. Brantley and Reese are letting a couple of the other guys , Archer and Atticus, take lead on this case. The team is “ all hands on deck” and they are chasing leads all over Texas. They go interview a mob boss, check out a co workers childhood home, and lose whoever is following them. Steamy. Secrets. Mystery. Several different point of views. You don’t want to miss his one. I can’t wait to see what happens next. I know not very long but don’t want to give anything away.
Terry –
How do you do better than outstanding writing? Do you have so many characters and have a book flow so easily that you can follow every storyline, every character, and all the angst, mystery, and heat throughout the book. There is a lot about Brantley and Reese because they are the bosses. But searching for Kylie has been put to Atticus and Archer. We get a lot of insight into both characters and how they feel about their jobs, and about each other and their pasts. We also get to meet JJ and Baz’s little ones. I loved the whole mystery that works its way throughout the book, and you get an insight into the FBI and what they have to do with everything including Kylie. Not necessarily the FBI, but men from the FBI, they have formed their own group. There is so much information in this book, and I literally had a hard time putting it down. It ends, but it doesn’t end. There is way more to come and one Martin Calloway to take down. He is evil incarnate. Not to leave spoilers is very difficult but let me just say I was very happy to see Travis and Gage again. I have always had a place in my heart for Travis, and to see him throughout the book, and my favorite part was to see him with his daughter. If you have followed the Walkers, you know the kind of man Travis is. Like I said there’s an end but not an end and I can’t wait for more.
Shelley Newham –
For the love…. my heart was racing the entire time I was reading this book. I could not put it down. I think I read it in 2 days, as one does need sleep or maybe not! You are going to need to strap in for the ride that this book takes you on.
It’s hard to write reviews for Nicole’s books, as she consistently knocks it out of the park. This one book… the range of emotions of everyone came through on every page. You couldn’t help but feel the mixed emotions that everyone was feeling, especially Travis & Gage. While there is lots of happiness there are still a lot of unanswered questions and I can’t wait to find out where Nicole takes us in the next book.
Jaye –
Smoke and Mirrors is the long-awaited installment of the Off the Books / Sniper 1 team. Well, it wasn’t that long ago when Missing Pieces was released but, since this author doesn’t normally leave us with such a cliff hanger, it felt longer. Thankfully, she followed up quickly to resolve many of the perils and answer questions. Yet, she left us with more… MUCH more to ponder. No spoilers but maybe not everything was lost from Alibi.
There’s all the feelings and more in this book. Mostly tension. Try to relax your shoulders when reading and take some deep breaths. This series isn’t going to leave you wanting for more excitement and shocking twists. It’s certainly not predictable.
Cambry –
Holy smokes! What a ride! I’m so glad we didn’t have to wait long for this book, because Nicole has absolutely rocked my world all over again. There is so much happening from start to finish. You won’t want to put it down for a second. And that big moment all of Nicole Nation has been buzzing about is finally fully revealed. I don’t want to give any spoilers so I will just say I couldn’t be happier with how it played out.
Just like every other Nicole masterpiece, this book is packed with steam, emotion, bits of drama, and those perfect little “aww” moments. Brantley and Reese are still going strong. Plus, I love getting so many different character perspectives.
Of course, the fact that this series mostly takes place in the beloved world of Coyote Ridge makes it even better. We get to peek back into the lives of so many fan-favorite characters. It feels like coming home. But the story isn’t over yet! I seriously cannot wait to see what Nicole delivers next!!
Kali McQuillen –
I about dropped my kindle at the end of the last book in this series (#12). I was like what did she just do to me? I was waiting for this book on tenterhooks and so happy that I really didn’t have to wait too long for it. It was such a jaw dropping ending I didn’t even have to go back and re-read it which is very unusual for me.
I pretty much locked myself in a room with my kindle, my drink and a bathroom. I didn’t put the book down until I finished. I can’t tell you enough how much I loved seeing everybody again and seeing more of the characters that you haven’t seen a lot of lately.
The author did a fabulous job of answering some questions, giving us twists and turns, giving us more questions to be answered, of course the heat as always in her books was HOT, the kind that makes you fan your face! I loved seeing some characters stand up for themselves, one that I wanted to tell to please get help, you’ll be so much better off personally and those around you will appreciate it also.
Everyone is working so hard on this case, no one slacks off and it’s all forces ahead for the team. Travis and Gage are also here for all of this and I’m happy to see them. I can’t wait for the next book in this series.
Chris Geier –
And the saga continues! Smoke and Mirrors picks up right where the team left off and keeps the focus on the common thread that has been weaving throughout the Brantley Walker: Off the Books series, so definitely start this series from the beginning. This book takes us deep into the team’s investigation as the twist and turns continue to keep the team on its toes because yes, there are surprises, danger and spicy romantic moments to keep the pages turning. However, the drama is not over and I can’t wait to see where this series takes us next.
Amy S. Humfleet –
Holy Smoke & Mirrors!
I thought that I would NEVER forgive Nicole Edwards for the massive, mind-reeling, insomnia-inducing cliffhanger at the end of Missing Pieces (Brantley Walker: Off the Books Book 12). Well, Nicole, you are more than forgiven! Smoke and Mirrors (Brantley Walker: Off the Books Book 11) is a hell of a ride and delivers everything fans expect from the Edwards’ Coyote Ridge Universe.
A Note on Spoilers: If you haven’t read Missing Pieces, be aware that this review may contain SPOILERS.
This book is an intricately woven tapestry of so many beloved characters from Nicole Edwards’ parallel universes. It picks up immediately as the OTB Task Force dives deeper into the conspiracy introduced in the last book.
Their investigation focuses on Censorious, a rogue FBI faction with an unsanctioned goal: to take down Max Adorite, leader of the Southern Boy Mafia. But the core mystery hits even closer to home, involving a direct connection to Brantley’s cousin, Travis Walker (Walkers of Coyote Ridge series), his deceased wife Kylie, and her killer, Juliet Price.
The driving question that propels the story forward is shocking: Could Kylie Walker be alive and used as a pawn in Censorious’s plan?
The book reads like a bloodhound on a hot trail to unravel the mystery and prove the truth behind the conspiracy. Every chapter uncovers new revelations and questions to be answered. As the reader, you are along for the ride of suspense, elation, and super SPICY scenes that flow effortlessly as the story unfolds. If you are a fan of Nicole Edwards’ books, you’ll be delighted by the interconnected stories, beloved characters, and suspenseful plot. 5-stars!!
Lisa Bates –
The 13th book in Brantley Walker:Off The Books series is less smoke and mirrors as it is a rollercoaster! Nicole’s S&M gives endorphin rushes throughout as she takes us on a deeper ride into the lives of the OTB members.
As Kylie’s death is unraveled, answers are revealed and the reader is brought up onto another rollercoaster hill of intrigue and anticipation. If you are an established Nicole Edwards reader you know anticipation and edge of your seat endings are nothing new. Nicole is great at weaving the current case with the history of Brantley Walker OTB and her Coyote Ridge series.
From foundational characters like Travis, Gage, Kylie, Brantley and Reese to returning (Becs, Evan, Atticus, Archer & more) and new characters, Nicole weaves an intricate web of community and family in such a seemingly easy way the reader may feel as if a magic spell has been cast. In reality it’s Nicole’s endless dedication to the character, story and to the reader that ultimately leaves the audience fulfilled yet wanting more. That’s exactly what Smoke And Mirrors does. Buckle up!
Jackie Wright –
Smoke and Mirrors was everything I expected and so much more. This is book 13 in the Brantley Walker: Off The Books Series and it kept me on the edge of my seat as the twists and turns just kept on coming……
I’m not going to write a review full of spoilers because this book needs to be read with no preconceived ideas and the emotion, the mystery and the suspense needs to be read first hand but what I will say is this is a well written, fast paced, entertaining and engaging read that I loved.
Renee Henson –
I received a copy of this book from the publisher/author to review.
I don’t know that I know how to review this book and not give something away. There is a lot going on and it will keep you on your toes. I loved the fact that we got to see Evan and Becs partnered up again. These two make pining for each other an art form. One you don’t want to stop looking at either. JJ and Baz are here with the babies. I love when we get to see them even for a second in a book. Atticus, Slade and Carson. My oh my Slade, Slade, Slade, hello what the heck are you doing??? This part is going to break you heart a little because I want to see some things happen for them and so far nope not happening. Atticus has such growth and I am loving the changes in him since he has joined the task force. Now we must tackle a rogue FBI group concerning Kylies death almost two years ago and that pairs up Brantley Archer and Atticus. Buckle up because this is a book that you won’t be able to put down. I loved every single second of it!! Go and get this book right now and enjoy the ride.
Lisa Spofford –
I am voluntarily writing this honest review after reading a #gifted ARC via the author. SMOKE AND MIRRORS is the thirteenth book in the BRANTLEY WALKER: OFF THE BOOKS TASK FORCE series by Nicole Edwards. This is a connected series which requires reading every book. In this book, the task force continues with their investigation into the revelations from the last book that took the team on an unpredictable, twisty route. It also continues to follow the relationships of members of the Task Force. The series reminds me of the serial publications that used to be released for authors like Charles Dickens, and I have loved every one of these books. This one did not disappoint, and resolved some issues that have been stewing since the fifth book, ALIBI, and I was so happy with the way it was resolved. I love this group of characters as well as the Walker family, and many characters from other series by this author made appearances in this novel as well. This book is an open door, spicy, third person, multi-POV, contemporary romantic suspense with tropes such as: LGBTQIA+, Navy SEAL, Missing people, Mystery, forced proximity, workplace romance, small town, Corrupt Politician, Multiple Relationships, Conspiracy Theory, and Road Trips. I recommend this book for readers who enjoy LGBTQIA+ positive romantic suspense. (4.5 stars rounded to 5 where necessary.)
TH –
OMG. The sage continuing is fantastic. So much goes on this book! The main plot centers around the investigation stemming from that last cliffy! I don’t want to spoil it but highly recommend reading this! I also feel like I am more comfortable with the rest of the team and their drama after this book.
Atticus, Slade and Carsen. Oof. I don’t know what I want from you.
I do want Slade’s back story to come up soon! (ie and Spencer’s)
JJ, Baz and the twins. Sigh. When will the fatigue set in 🙂
Archer and Atticus?? Maybe? Love them as partners.
Evan and Becs, get it figured out already lol.
And of course Brantley and Reese (and Tescha). Still my favs.
There are other players you will have to read to catch up on!
Highly recommend. Need more soon!
Marcia Miller-Rogers –
OMG Smoke and Mirrors blew me away! This book was absolutely amazing. I am still in shock from all of the reveals that occurred in this book and yet still wondering “whodunnit and why?” WOW! Oh Wow! Did Nicole Edwards pack a real punch with this installment in the Brantley Walker: Off the Books series! This one is one of her best yet. The twists and turns on this rollercoaster ride that Nicole Edwards takes you on in Smoke and Mirrors will have you gripping the bar while hanging onto the edge of your seat!
Smoke and Mirrors puts Archer Halligan, the newest member of the team, and Atticus James, the newly formed partners, at the forefront, since they are the team leaders working to solve this mystery. And what a mystery it is. Not only will they be reporting to their bosses, Brantley and Reese, but there also is Travis and Gage to deal with. Whew!
If you are ready for nonstop shocks after shocks while reconnecting with so many beloved characters from Nicole’s previous books, Smoke and Mirrors is the book for you! Bravo Nicole Edwards! Bravo! I’m on pins and needles waiting for the next installment even though I just finished this one.