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Checkmate #5
Rise Of The King
Eighteen months ago, my world was tossed upside down amid horrified screams and merciless hellfire. I was thrown into the flames to burn alive, but now I stand on the other side, invincible, untouchable, and un-f*cking-beatable.
Today, the ID in my wallet says John D. Hamilton. It’s the name I go by, the name the beautiful brunette sitting alone in Ginnie’s diner knows me as.
I was an undercover cop, once. A decorated agent who slid from my throne and descended into a world of pain and darkness. Then came Sophia Solomon, the light in my dark, the miracle who walks past my door and lends a little warmth in the dead of winter.
Sophia‘s beauty steals the breath from my lungs. She draws me in just by existing, but she doesn’t know my secrets.
I wasn’t born with the first name John, but then again, I wasn’t born a cocaine addict either, but here we are and both are true.
Now I’m on a mission to find the man that had me killed.
Rise Of The King is a Checkmate Series suspenseful romance. It’s a compete standalone and has no cliffhanger. New readers can start here. But beware, not everything is as it seems.
Today, the ID in my wallet says John D. Hamilton. It’s the name I go by, the name the beautiful brunette sitting alone in Ginnie’s diner knows me as.
I was an undercover cop, once. A decorated agent who slid from my throne and descended into a world of pain and darkness. Then came Sophia Solomon, the light in my dark, the miracle who walks past my door and lends a little warmth in the dead of winter.
Sophia‘s beauty steals the breath from my lungs. She draws me in just by existing, but she doesn’t know my secrets.
I wasn’t born with the first name John, but then again, I wasn’t born a cocaine addict either, but here we are and both are true.
Now I’m on a mission to find the man that had me killed.
Rise Of The King is a Checkmate Series suspenseful romance. It’s a compete standalone and has no cliffhanger. New readers can start here. But beware, not everything is as it seems.
286 pages, Paperback
First published September 4, 2019
About the author
Emilia Finn
88 books1,324 followersEmilia Finn is an Australian-based author with more than 40 books written and published, many of which hit #1 in their categories, as well as top 20 on all of Amazon.
She's a mom, a coffee addict, a collector of quirky coffee mugs, and before she had kids, she was a real-life full-contact fighter.
Her experience on the fight circuits helped her pen her first ever book--Finding Home--featuring a world champion MMA fighter Bobby Kincaid, and his leading lady and equal in every way, Kit Reilly. What was only supposed to be a once off experience has now turned into a career for Emilia, a thriving empire, and a daily grind she never wants to be rescued from.
Join Emilia's mailing list for exclusive material and new release alerts.
Website➜ https://www.emiliafinn.com
Facebook➜ https://www.facebook.com/EmiliaBFinn/
Reading group ➜ https://www.facebook.com/groups/thero...
Instagram➜ https://www.instagram.com/emiliabfinn1/
She's a mom, a coffee addict, a collector of quirky coffee mugs, and before she had kids, she was a real-life full-contact fighter.
Her experience on the fight circuits helped her pen her first ever book--Finding Home--featuring a world champion MMA fighter Bobby Kincaid, and his leading lady and equal in every way, Kit Reilly. What was only supposed to be a once off experience has now turned into a career for Emilia, a thriving empire, and a daily grind she never wants to be rescued from.
Join Emilia's mailing list for exclusive material and new release alerts.
Website➜ https://www.emiliafinn.com
Facebook➜ https://www.facebook.com/EmiliaBFinn/
Reading group ➜ https://www.facebook.com/groups/thero...
Instagram➜ https://www.instagram.com/emiliabfinn1/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 172 reviews
September 6, 2019
Best. Freakin. Ever
This is by far my favorite of the Checkmate Series!
I totally have a new girl crush, if Soph was real, let me tell ya, I’d leave my husband for that woman in a heartbeat. Emilia can write badass ladies like no other!
The action is non-stop, the feels are intense and the romance is silly and sexy (which is my favorite kind).
Love. Love. Love this book
This is by far my favorite of the Checkmate Series!
I totally have a new girl crush, if Soph was real, let me tell ya, I’d leave my husband for that woman in a heartbeat. Emilia can write badass ladies like no other!
The action is non-stop, the feels are intense and the romance is silly and sexy (which is my favorite kind).
Love. Love. Love this book
August 17, 2020
Sophia Solomon giving a speech about sexism while torturing one of Laine's rapists is what I live for.
Also, JDH BABY I LOVE YOU SO MUCH IT'S UNREAL
Also, JDH BABY I LOVE YOU SO MUCH IT'S UNREAL
June 30, 2020
Wasn't sure!
For the first 75% of the book I just wasn't sure if it was reading. I figured out who Ace was early on but other than that nothing really happened besides a couple of killings.
Now as far as the last 25% that was a whole different story. The top bad guy I didn't figure out. It was nice to see the brothers together again. Sophia is so strong for crying out loud I kind of want to marry her. In my eyes she's too dog and pulling all the strings it's good to see her get a happy ending and justice.
For the first 75% of the book I just wasn't sure if it was reading. I figured out who Ace was early on but other than that nothing really happened besides a couple of killings.
Now as far as the last 25% that was a whole different story. The top bad guy I didn't figure out. It was nice to see the brothers together again. Sophia is so strong for crying out loud I kind of want to marry her. In my eyes she's too dog and pulling all the strings it's good to see her get a happy ending and justice.
November 9, 2019
I love all Emilia's books! I love her writing style; I love the way she writes all the characters with so much depth and personality that they feel real and you want them in your life; I love the humor that laces through all the books. The stories are varied and have more kick to them than your standard recycled recipe styles of some other authors.
Although the books are all linked (in that they are set in the same place and the players all interact to some degree throughout the multiple books), they can all be read as a standalone. That said, you'll miss out if you don't meet some of the awesome characters in their supporting roles along the way. Not to mention the little Easter eggs littered throughout.
'Rise of the King' is my absolute favourite so far. I absolutely adore the main couple and desperately want our heroine to be my BFF.
If you're yet read any of Emilia's books, search 'Finding Home' (Book 1 of the Rollin On series) to kick off. That leads into the Survivor series and then onto the Checkmate series. You won't be sorry!
Although the books are all linked (in that they are set in the same place and the players all interact to some degree throughout the multiple books), they can all be read as a standalone. That said, you'll miss out if you don't meet some of the awesome characters in their supporting roles along the way. Not to mention the little Easter eggs littered throughout.
'Rise of the King' is my absolute favourite so far. I absolutely adore the main couple and desperately want our heroine to be my BFF.
If you're yet read any of Emilia's books, search 'Finding Home' (Book 1 of the Rollin On series) to kick off. That leads into the Survivor series and then onto the Checkmate series. You won't be sorry!
February 11, 2020
"Sophia Solomon was sunlight in a dark world and brought my aching brain comfort when little else could. Where everyone else was dark and painful, she was light and easy."
[lady gaga's voice]: talented, brilliant, incredible, amazing, show stopping, spectacular, never the same, totally unique, etc.
seriously i can't explain how much i loved this book and these characters. #5 and Sophia are my babies, i loved each of their interactions, their relationship, they as an individual, the breadcrumbs in the other books, gah! I LOVE THEM, period.
April 13, 2020
Oh boy! Amazing as always. I have to say, this is probably my most favourite book out of the Checkmate Series. I always enjoy Emilia’s style of writing, the characters always have so much personality and depth, it just feels like they’re real life. Reading this, I cried because obviously. (Mind you it was 3am and I’m running on no sleep) And I don’t wanna ruin but I GUESSED IT a few chapters before it happened and I was still shell shocked, and I literally threw my kindle to the other side on my couch. You’ll know what I mean when you get there ;) Carrying on with the next one in line.
November 15, 2019
I enjoyed most of the story. I did think the hero was maybe in a little danger of an STD and maybe a little crude but overall it was ok.
February 2, 2020
Way too predictable...I knew who CAB was...I knew who Ace was...ok story overall...just disappointing that it was way too easy to figure out
June 8, 2023
All I can say is thank goodness Emilia did not leave Jay Bishop dead. His loss really hurt in Book 1 and then again in Book 3. Jay is freaking hilarious and always has a witty comeback. His devotion to Kane is both heartbreaking and touching. Heartbreaking because he feels such an intense responsibility and misplaced guilt for how things went down. Touching because he is just as fiercely protective and loyal as Kane and will stop at nothing to ensure Kane’s safety.
Sophia is a badass and I’m kinda in love with her too. This is the start of Sophia in the Emilia Finn universe but she will continue to pop up everywhere. She’s always in the know and sometimes stirring up trouble. Personally impacted by the likes of Abel Hayes, Sophia will stop at nothing to bring justice to her sister and tear down the empire that caused her death. Sophia and Jay are kindred spirits and truly a perfect match for each other. They both balance and spur on each others crazy.
This book is a wild ride full of mystery, suspense, and an overdue reunion.
- He falls first
- Romantic Suspense
- Cinnamon Roll hero
- mafia ties
Sophia is a badass and I’m kinda in love with her too. This is the start of Sophia in the Emilia Finn universe but she will continue to pop up everywhere. She’s always in the know and sometimes stirring up trouble. Personally impacted by the likes of Abel Hayes, Sophia will stop at nothing to bring justice to her sister and tear down the empire that caused her death. Sophia and Jay are kindred spirits and truly a perfect match for each other. They both balance and spur on each others crazy.
This book is a wild ride full of mystery, suspense, and an overdue reunion.
- He falls first
- Romantic Suspense
- Cinnamon Roll hero
- mafia ties
April 25, 2022
Feeling the Love
This was an amazing story of the power of love. Jay and Sophia, both motivated by the love for their siblings, worked together to bring down the bad guys. They used their love for one another to find their way out of the darkness and heal. I've been reading all of Emilia Finn's stories in order and they just keep getting better and better. I even think the Bishop brothers have trumped the Kincaids as my favorite. I just can't get enough of these books!
Note: Technically this book can be read as a standalone BUT Emilia Finn does an amazing job of developing her characters throughout her stories and then they continue to be included in each book. I highly suggest getting to know them by starting with the Rollin On series and reading the books in order or at the very least start with book 1 of this series.
This was an amazing story of the power of love. Jay and Sophia, both motivated by the love for their siblings, worked together to bring down the bad guys. They used their love for one another to find their way out of the darkness and heal. I've been reading all of Emilia Finn's stories in order and they just keep getting better and better. I even think the Bishop brothers have trumped the Kincaids as my favorite. I just can't get enough of these books!
Note: Technically this book can be read as a standalone BUT Emilia Finn does an amazing job of developing her characters throughout her stories and then they continue to be included in each book. I highly suggest getting to know them by starting with the Rollin On series and reading the books in order or at the very least start with book 1 of this series.
April 7, 2020
I skipped books 2-4 in the series because I cared more about the male protagonist in the book based on what I knew about him from Book 1 of the series. It has hard to read some of this, but it has some hard stuff as the basis of the plot. I figured out the mystery about 2/3 of the way in and I got really frustrated at the protagonists (like they were real people who could hear me, right?) when they couldn't figure it out.
I will probably read books 2-4, 6 but it is hard subject matter that drive the plots in the pandemic world I need something lighter.
I will probably read books 2-4, 6 but it is hard subject matter that drive the plots in the pandemic world I need something lighter.
April 18, 2020
So intense
I absolutely love Jay and Sophia's dynamic. They have great chemistry and make an awesome couple. Their banter and emotional connection was amazing. I loved listening to their conversations and jokes. They are so good together. Jay never loses his funny, joking personality even though he has the weight of the world on his shoulders. Sophia has been my favorite heroine so far! I didn't think I could like anyone more than Jess, but Sophia is badass. Her and Jay make the best couple.
I absolutely love Jay and Sophia's dynamic. They have great chemistry and make an awesome couple. Their banter and emotional connection was amazing. I loved listening to their conversations and jokes. They are so good together. Jay never loses his funny, joking personality even though he has the weight of the world on his shoulders. Sophia has been my favorite heroine so far! I didn't think I could like anyone more than Jess, but Sophia is badass. Her and Jay make the best couple.
June 9, 2020
This is just another brilliant part of this Checkmate series it intriguing humerus romantic.Sophia or Ace which is her name when she is working.Jay was rescued from the fire after being shot and is living his life undercover finding out who is trying to kill his brother.who thinks he is dead and will remain that way till the appropriate time arises. They meet both have a attraction that’s when all the intrigue starts.i could not put this book down once I started reading once again great story.
August 5, 2020
A One Click Read!!
Rise Of The King will blow your mind in all the good ways. Finn gives us humor, angst, suspense, mystery, tears and so much more. I am loving this series and it's crazy characters. I will not tell you more because this book is meant to be read without knowing the spoilers. I highly recommend Reading this series in order because in order to truly appreciate Rise Of The King you have to read Pawn in a Bishop's Game... and then all about Riley Cruz before you hit the King. Happy Reading!!
Rise Of The King will blow your mind in all the good ways. Finn gives us humor, angst, suspense, mystery, tears and so much more. I am loving this series and it's crazy characters. I will not tell you more because this book is meant to be read without knowing the spoilers. I highly recommend Reading this series in order because in order to truly appreciate Rise Of The King you have to read Pawn in a Bishop's Game... and then all about Riley Cruz before you hit the King. Happy Reading!!
May 14, 2021
A fabulous ending to (one backstory) running through the first 5 books in the series. Best not read this one as a stand alone either, as you need to read these from the beginning so the tension can build. They are all available in KU, by the way. There are 3 more books in the series, so I have no clue what direction it's taking other than a couple more of our heros end up with HEAs. This book is well written, full of suspense, drama, action, steamy scenes, family and some dark themes - with a bit of fun added in.
April 26, 2022
Ah-Mazing
I LOVE this series. I love how the first 5 books were so intertwined. You read separate stories that follow each couple, but they all build to the bigger story. Jay is possibly my favorite character of this series (to date) and Sophia is a BA without screaming over the top, hard hitting girl power. She kicks butt and takes names and does it because that is who she is, all within the frame of a dancer. Brain, beauty and poise, a fantastic match for Jay. Can't wait to read the next books in the series!
I LOVE this series. I love how the first 5 books were so intertwined. You read separate stories that follow each couple, but they all build to the bigger story. Jay is possibly my favorite character of this series (to date) and Sophia is a BA without screaming over the top, hard hitting girl power. She kicks butt and takes names and does it because that is who she is, all within the frame of a dancer. Brain, beauty and poise, a fantastic match for Jay. Can't wait to read the next books in the series!
August 6, 2020
Badass and Oh So Good. Couldn't Put it Down.
Truly my favourite story in all the Checkmate series and I love all of them. If you love badass women, this is def for you. I can totally relate to Sophia's character and I absolutely adore Jay's. In keeping with when Jay was introduced before, his character remained true but we saw the sweet side on this book. I really enjoyed this. Definitely couldn't out this one down.
Truly my favourite story in all the Checkmate series and I love all of them. If you love badass women, this is def for you. I can totally relate to Sophia's character and I absolutely adore Jay's. In keeping with when Jay was introduced before, his character remained true but we saw the sweet side on this book. I really enjoyed this. Definitely couldn't out this one down.
October 21, 2020
Full house, Aces
J is so raunchy and ironically charming simultaneously. He is born and bred muscle with the utmost skill. Ace is genius level smart and leads with an iron fist. Soph is sassy and graceful. Together they make a heck of a team.
Oooh, the events in this tale! I honestly am not sure which book or man i like more- not that you could make a move 'cause their women are just as lethal (and a bit on the crazy side).
J is so raunchy and ironically charming simultaneously. He is born and bred muscle with the utmost skill. Ace is genius level smart and leads with an iron fist. Soph is sassy and graceful. Together they make a heck of a team.
Oooh, the events in this tale! I honestly am not sure which book or man i like more- not that you could make a move 'cause their women are just as lethal (and a bit on the crazy side).
July 14, 2021
Soul touching
Ever feel lost in a sea of people you know? Ever feel like nobody sees you when you see everyone? This book is full of answers and plot twists. It falls in line with the rest of the people you have fallen in love with. I don't want to reveal to much but this is a must read. Don't read it out of order or this book won't make sense. This book reminds you that when you feel the most alone, is when someone is loving you the most.
Ever feel lost in a sea of people you know? Ever feel like nobody sees you when you see everyone? This book is full of answers and plot twists. It falls in line with the rest of the people you have fallen in love with. I don't want to reveal to much but this is a must read. Don't read it out of order or this book won't make sense. This book reminds you that when you feel the most alone, is when someone is loving you the most.
February 7, 2020
Rise Of The King
I wasn’t sure at first how I felt about this book. It took me a couple of pages to get into the story. I loved when Jay and Sophia connected. I loved the action and the surprises that fill the book. I fell in love with the characters. I would highly recommend this book!
I wasn’t sure at first how I felt about this book. It took me a couple of pages to get into the story. I loved when Jay and Sophia connected. I loved the action and the surprises that fill the book. I fell in love with the characters. I would highly recommend this book!
July 26, 2020
Wow
This series is absolutely amazing! After every book I think, It can’t get any better, but then I start the next book and realize it does! I very much enjoyed Jay’s character the little bit we got to see of him in the past books and was so ecstatic to realize this was his story! Absolutely loved it!
This series is absolutely amazing! After every book I think, It can’t get any better, but then I start the next book and realize it does! I very much enjoyed Jay’s character the little bit we got to see of him in the past books and was so ecstatic to realize this was his story! Absolutely loved it!
August 26, 2020
It’s a full story and plot
It’s a full story with like able characters. Ace is in charge and on a mission of vengeance for Ellie. Ace found Jay, saved his life and now they have a common goal to take down the people stealing girls and selling them. Jay also is trying to protect his brother Kane. Read On!
It’s a full story with like able characters. Ace is in charge and on a mission of vengeance for Ellie. Ace found Jay, saved his life and now they have a common goal to take down the people stealing girls and selling them. Jay also is trying to protect his brother Kane. Read On!
August 28, 2020
Ace In The Hole
Ace has been pulling the strings for months helping John D Hamilton as he is known as to find targets in the child trafficking ring and take them out. It all goes well, until the top is blown off. This book answered a lot of questions left unanswered in other books. Tied it all up with a nice bow. Loved it.
Ace has been pulling the strings for months helping John D Hamilton as he is known as to find targets in the child trafficking ring and take them out. It all goes well, until the top is blown off. This book answered a lot of questions left unanswered in other books. Tied it all up with a nice bow. Loved it.
September 27, 2020
Oh my 5 stars!
I was hoping. I was sooooo hoping that what I read inKane’s book wasn’t the end. I couldn’t get him out of my mind. I’ve cried for him. I mourned him a little. I couldn’t stop thinking about him and wishing I knew more about him cuz he sounded kinda cool in Kane’s book. These stories never disappoint. Love! Love! Love!
I was hoping. I was sooooo hoping that what I read inKane’s book wasn’t the end. I couldn’t get him out of my mind. I’ve cried for him. I mourned him a little. I couldn’t stop thinking about him and wishing I knew more about him cuz he sounded kinda cool in Kane’s book. These stories never disappoint. Love! Love! Love!
October 12, 2020
Feminism at its best 💕
It all about love and feminism. Amazing how the author calls out biases and talks about love in same breath. Amazing hero and heroine who eat gummy worms, dance and kill. Amazing example of beauty and brains. Best book of the series but you have to read the others first to fall in love with this one.
It all about love and feminism. Amazing how the author calls out biases and talks about love in same breath. Amazing hero and heroine who eat gummy worms, dance and kill. Amazing example of beauty and brains. Best book of the series but you have to read the others first to fall in love with this one.
February 12, 2021
Love love love
I mean... how can each book be sooo good??? I mean how can Finn do this?? It’s amazing. This series is amazing. Jay and Soph are so unique and lovable. I love how every character is so unique and their voice is heard perfectly. Another winner. Start this series here or at the beginning you won’t regret it.
I mean... how can each book be sooo good??? I mean how can Finn do this?? It’s amazing. This series is amazing. Jay and Soph are so unique and lovable. I love how every character is so unique and their voice is heard perfectly. Another winner. Start this series here or at the beginning you won’t regret it.
April 7, 2021
Intense
So many moments of tension. I do love the characters in this book so much. The romance scenes are hot and heavy. I loved it.
Possible SPOILER AHEAD....
The identity of CAB drug out a little too long especially because readers already have an accurate guess to his identity.
So many moments of tension. I do love the characters in this book so much. The romance scenes are hot and heavy. I loved it.
Possible SPOILER AHEAD....
The identity of CAB drug out a little too long especially because readers already have an accurate guess to his identity.
April 14, 2021
Awesome series! I'm writing this after having read all of the series so this is my review in hindsight. These guys stand out to me as the quirky group and always managed to make me laugh with their shenanigans but I also appreciated the author's willingness to dive into some very sincere back stories that felt like more than just another storyline.
July 10, 2022
Rise Of The King
Book 4 of the Checkmate series is awesome. It's got highs and lows and everything in between. This is the 17th book I've read by Emilia Finn and her writing still impresses me. This book has the second type I've ever caught, which makes her writing and editing truly amazing.
Book 4 of the Checkmate series is awesome. It's got highs and lows and everything in between. This is the 17th book I've read by Emilia Finn and her writing still impresses me. This book has the second type I've ever caught, which makes her writing and editing truly amazing.
October 13, 2022
Love Love Love 🤍🤍🤍🤍🤍
I love JDH!!!!!!! I love his his jokes…. Hahaha I never laughed so much!!!!!
JDH book is has all the feels in the world. This is my second time reading it and let me just say I love it more than before.
It has laughter, protectiveness, actions, lots and lots of action…
One of my favorite books and I know that I will be rereading it over and over again.
I love JDH!!!!!!! I love his his jokes…. Hahaha I never laughed so much!!!!!
JDH book is has all the feels in the world. This is my second time reading it and let me just say I love it more than before.
It has laughter, protectiveness, actions, lots and lots of action…
One of my favorite books and I know that I will be rereading it over and over again.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 172 reviews