Man Law - Adrienne Giordano

Book Blurb:
Security Consultant Vic Andrews lives by his Man Laws:

Never mess with your best friend's sister

Never get caught

Never get attached

But he can't deny his irresistible attraction to Gina Delgado, a young widow with three kids and plenty of strings attached. Even so, having a physical relationship doesn't mean they're "in a relationship."

Gina lost her husband to tragedy; she is not getting emotionally involved with another man in a dangerous profession. Sleeping with Vic is just stress relief.

Until one of Vic's assignments goes wrong and the target selects Gina and her kids for revenge. There's nothing Vic won't do to protect Gina and the children—the family he realizes, too late, he wants. He'll accomplish his mission but will he have lost his only chance at true love?

In My Own Words:
You know when innocent sex starts to feel like something more, and you are the no attachments kind of guy, that you should cut your losses and RUN.  But, what happens when your sex partner is your best friends sister and a widow with 3 kids?  When a mission to kill the bad guys ends with a pissed off bad-guy-brother, Vic scrambles to figure out the angle in which retribution will come.  When he is seen helping Gina take her sick daughter home, the bad guy thinks they are a couple and this is the best way to get back at Vic, by tormenting those he loves.  With him trying to explore feelings he didn't know he had in him, plus trying to protect Gina and the kids, PLUS trying to find the bad guy....is it all to much for the no roots guy to handle?

Notable Quote:
Man Law: Never wonder if you should have thrown the asshole off the roof.

Review:
This is the second book in the Private Protectors book.  I really loved Vic and Gina.  This book had so much attached to it.  You had the family dynamics of a widow trying to reclaim her life, plus her kids not sure how to handle a new man coming around.  Then Gina and Michael's brother/sister relationship.  Plus the "men" on the team that were the bodyguards...all smart asses with a heart of gold.  I felt so many emotions while reading this book.  At one point, during a rescue scene (trying not to give to much away), the rescue goes wrong and I was DEVASTATED.  I felt for the team, Vic and Lily.  I was REALLY mad at the author, and I honestly said "how could she do this to me?"  THAT, is the mark of a good book.  You are so involved with the characters and their lives, that you feel like you are part of it.  I loved the "Man Laws" at the beginning of each chapter.  There was a lot of action, lots of love and tons of entertainment.

Risking Trust - Adrienne Giordano

Book Blurb:
Roxann Thorgesson's world is out of control. After her father suffers a fatal heart attack, she must take over as publisher of Chicago's second-largest newspaper. Then her ex-boyfriend Michael Taylor, CEO of his own security company, shows up needing a favor. The last thing Roxann needs is Michael around causing trouble—and potential heartbreak—but he's involved in a scandalous story she can't pass up.

Twelve years ago, Michael walked out on Roxann without explanation. Now he needs her help. Michael's estranged wife has been murdered and he is the prime suspect. He offers something no newspaperwoman could refuse: exclusive access to his headline-making murder accusation, in exchange for her help in uncovering the true killer. When their investigation leads them to a city hall conspiracy, both their lives and their newly reignited flame could be permanently extinguished...

In My Own Words:

The well organized life of Roxann Thorgesson, has been turned upside down.  Her father dies suddenly in front of her...she inherits the newspaper her father spent his life building...her old flame comes to her to clear his name...and her press is sabotaged all in a matter of weeks.  The former Olympian just want organization back, but can't help the thought of what Michael Taylor's story might do for her paper, but being so close to Michael poses problems of its own.

When Michael's soon-to-be ex-wife is found murdered, he is the prime and only suspect the police are looking for.  When he teams up with his old love, things start to point to corruption at City Hall.  When the pressure is mounting and Roxann starts publishing articles about the case and the corruption, all hell breaks loose.  When the puzzle pieces are finally revealed, the game is just that much more confusing...and hurtful.

Review:

This is the first book in the Private Protectors series.  And before I begin with my thoughts on the book, this book was released 3rd in the series, but is the actual start.  If I would have read the other two first, I can't say my thoughts on the book would be all that good.  Key players were introduced in this book, and it would be weird to read out of order and not know the story of the leader of the private protection agency.

That being said...I really liked this book.  The banter between Roxann and Michael was refreshing.  The hurt seemed very real and the pain Roxann was going through about losing her father was heartbreaking.  You could tell the author had her own personal experience to lean on and it showed in the writing.  I really enjoyed meeting some of the secondary characters such as Vic and Gina and the kids.  I was a little upset there wasn't more with Gina's oldest son, it seemed that Michael was a mentor of sorts for him, but after one run away, there wasn't much more said.  I felt if the kid was dealing with the loss of his father, Michael would have been more front and center for him.  I found this book to be very fast to read, probably because I couldn't put it down.  I thought I knew who-done-it early on, but I was very surprised with the ending, which was a bonus for me.  Finding out the villain early on in a book is a real turn off for me.  Adrienne is a new author to me, but I can honestly say, I can't wait for Vic's book.  I would highly recommend this to anyone who enjoys romantic suspense.

Because of You - Jessica Scott

Book Blurb:
Keeping his men alive is all that matters to Sergeant First Class Shane Garrison. But meeting Jen St. James the night before his latest deployment makes Shane wonder if there’s more to life than war. He leaves for Iraq remembering a single kiss with a woman he’ll never see again—until a near fatal attack lands him back at home and in her care.

Jen has survived her own brush with death and endured its scars. And yet there’s a fire in Shane that makes Jen forget all about her past. He may be her patient, but when this warrior looks her in the eyes, she feels—for the first time in a long time—like a woman. Shane is too proud to ask for help, but for Jen, caring for him is more than a duty—it’s a need. And as Jen guides Shane through the fires of healing, she finds something she never expected—her deepest desire.

In My Own Words:
A soldier through and through, Shane Garrison is about to deploy again when one last night out with his men yields him one of the hottest kisses he has ever had, and a memory that would have to last him a lifetime.  He is done with the happily ever after crap.  Jen, having her own demons to conquer, is just happy to get through the evening without her form falling out of her bra.  When they meet, by chance, the next day and she gives in to his pleas, she wonders if she will ever see the handsome soldier again.

When a mission goes wrong, Shane is sent stateside and right in to the capable hands of Nurse Jen.  While helping him heal from his outside wounds, she quickly realizes that most of his major wounds are wounds of the heart and soul.

Review:
I was skeptical about reading this book.  As a military brat myself, and having an active duty brother that is currently on his 3 tour overseas, I know what a family feels when loved ones are in harms way.  I know that Mrs. Scott has been in the military, so I knew she would hit the military life but wasn't sure how real the family life would be portrayed.  I am so very happy to say, this is a book I wouldn't hesitate to recommend.  The war scenes are expertly written and you feel like you are in the thick of the hell they are going through.  Everything about this book, makes you believe this could very well be a true story.  There are amazing characters that are developed throughout the book, and it ended setting up book 2 perfectly, I know I can't wait until it released to find out....What The HELL?? Jen's spunk and sass gave me many "you tell him girl" moments.  I was also happy (and not trying to give away spoilers) the way that Carponti story was written and came to fruition.  There were lots of highs and lots of lows, an emotional but entertaining book.  My one negative would be, the e-copy I got had a lot of words missing.  I had to guess what the author was trying to say several times.  Didn't really take away from the story, but became annoying after a while.  Knowing that this is the debut book for this author is astounding for me, I love her writing style and she knew exactly how to get her point out there.  I loved it, and am dying for the next book, Back To You, in May of 2012.

Moving Target - Cheyenne McCray

Book Blurb:
Ani King left her entire life behind when the Russian mafia brutally murdered her family. The Witness Security Program has kept her safe for two years, but with one simple phone call her cover is destroyed—and there is only one man left who can save her.

Protecting the brave, beautiful Ani became more than just a job a long time ago for Deputy Marshal Daniel Parker. And now, just days before the trial where she’s slated to give a damning testimony, the criminals who want her dead are on her trail. To keep Ani safe, Daniel has to keep her close—and her enemies closer. Because soon there’s nowhere for Ani to hide…but in his arms.

In My Own Words:

After Ani King's family is brutally murdered by the Russian mob, she goes in to hiding with the help of the Witness Protection Service.  Her plan, to testify and put the murdering bastard behind bars for the rest of his life.  What she doesn't count on is that her heart is just a little to big.  And with one phone call to help a little boy in need, her cover is blown.

Daniel Parker has been Ani's Marshall for over a year and their weekly calls has settled her in his heart.  On this Friday, his call is answered and he learns that Ani has gone against protocol and has contacted someone from her past.  No matter the reason, she is now in grave danger.  A rush against the clock has him speeding through Arizona to get to her before the mafia does.  Once he has her safely with him, now the job is to get her safely to court to testify.  

Review:

In an effort for full disclosure, I have been in a reading slump lately.  Not much has kept my attention, and there have been several books I have started and not finished.  Luckily, THIS isn't one of those books.  I loved this one from cover to cover.  There is nonstop action and hotness between Ani and Daniel.  Up against all odds, she had backbone and gumption and steel determination.  Daniel tried, he really tried to see her as only his charge, but all those weekly phone calls, really cemented her in his life and finally gave up being her Marshall and became her protector, lover and best friend all rolled up in one nice hot package.  There is one big secret that threatens their relationship, it was a secret you can easily figure out early on in the book, but I don't think knowing it took away from the story at all.  This wasn't your normal who-done-it book, as you know who did it, you are just waiting to see if they can do it to her.  An all in all great romantic suspense read.

Book Blurb:
Posey Osterhagen can't complain. She owns a successful architectural salvaging company, she's surrounded by her lovable, if off-center, family and she has a boyfriend—sort of. Still, something's missing. Something tall, brooding and criminally good-looking…something like Liam Murphy.

When Posey was sixteen, the bad boy of Bellsford, New Hampshire, broke her heart. But now he's back, sending Posey's traitorous schoolgirl heart into overdrive once again. She should be giving him a wide berth, but it seems fate has other ideas….

In My Own Words:
Living up to her parents expectations is something that Posey hasn't ever been able to quite accomplish.  Living in the shadow of her famous cousin, she has that one down pat.  When her first love comes back to town with a teen age daughter in tow, Posey decides the best thing for her, and her heart, is to ignore him, maybe he will go away.  Unfortunately, her luck can't be that good.  Circumstance after circumstance seems to have them both thrown together.  What she doesn't need is her mother making goo goo eyes at Liam for her traitorous cousin who by the way, has never had anything nice to say about Posey at all.  Will Posey finally stand up to her family and take what she has always wanted, happiness.

Notable Quote:
"Well, I love you, even if you did ruin my life by turning into a teeneager"... (Liam and his daughter disagreeing....again)

Review:
I loved so many things about this book.  Posey was eccentric and sassy, but also kind and faithful.  Liam had his heart broken by losing his wife and trying to raise his daughter alone.  I felt for him a lot during this book.  I think I connected with him before any other characters.  Posey's family....you just can't help but laugh.  Posey has such wonderful friends that aren't afraid to tell her how it is, and put her straight.  I can't think of one thing that I didn't really like about this book.  It was a great comfort contemporary read, and one I would recommend to anyone.

Have You Seen Her? ~ Karen Rose

Book Blurb:
One by one, the girls disappear from their beds at night. Each one is pretty, with long dark hair. And each one is found brutally murdered.

Special Agent Steven Thatcher has sworn to find the serial killer preying on this small town. As the investigation pulls him one way, his family pulls him in another. A widower haunted by loss, he now worries about his son Brad slipping away. But there's a bright light in his life: his son's teacher, Jenna Marshall, has reached out to help. She's beautiful, kind, and considerate--and slowly, tentatively, she and Steven are starting to fall in love. But both have been hurt before--badly. And as the two try to find the courage to bare their souls, a murderer who has slain many looks for the real treasure he craves. He sets his traps. And waits. For Jenna...

In My Own Words:

When Jenna Marshall decided to become a teacher, the last thing she thought she would have to deal with was a football player's family and friends threatening and terrorizing her for failing him, thus keeping him off the field.  When the threats become a bit overwhelming, she turns to the father of another student, Special Agent Steven Thatcher, who has had his own bouts with someone terrorizing his family when his son was taken 6 months prior.  Since that time, little Nicky hasn't been or had much joy in his little life.  When meddling Aunt Helen starts her plan to get Steven married off, the plan couldn't have backfired more when Steven thinks that Jenna is part of the plan.  When the cards are stacked against them, they seem to find their way back to each other, but when the body count starts to rise, even Jenna's friends aren't safe.

Notable Quote:

..."I was going to have icecream for dinner. Want some?"

"You really need to have better nutrition, Jenna."  Seth stood up. "Butter pecan is my favorite."

"It's Rocky Road."

....."Like I said, Rocky Road is my favorite."

Review:

I have to admit, I had a hard time getting in to this particular book in the series.  We met several different people right away, and trying to keep them all straight got a bit trying at times.  I also didn't feel any chemistry with really any of the characters.  After about 1/3 of the way through, I began to piece it together, and I started to feel for Steven, it wasn't until then that I started to enjoy the book.  Several parts of this book stick out in my mind, the relationship between dad and sons.  There are two completely different family dynamics that you witness, and they are polar opposites.  The way that Steven always seemed to be saying "I'm sorry" to Jenna, and seeming to truly mean it.  The meddling Aunt and neighbor were highlights to me.  I did figure out "who done it" before it was revealed, but I had quite a hard time deducing the perp until a few things slipped.  I wasn't put off by knowing who the bad guy actually was, though.  All in all, I would say, this is a good book.  It wasn't one of my favorites, but I enjoyed it eventually, and was pulling for some of the main characters.  I hope Davies gets his own story.  He played a pivotal roll in the investigation and in Steven & Jenna's relationship.

Serendipity - Carly Phillips

Book Blurb:
Faith Harrington was the classic girl of privilege–until her father was convicted of running a Ponzi scheme and then her marriage crashed and burned.

Now Faith is back in her hometown, hoping for a fresh start. But her father’s betrayal has rocked Serendipity – and not everyone is ready to welcome her with open arms. Then she runs into her teenage crush — the dark, brooding Ethan Barron. Ethan, no stranger to scandal himself, never imagined he’d own the mansion on the hill, much less ever again come face to face with Faith–the princess he once kissed senseless. The chance meeting reignites the electric charge between them.

Still, when Ethan hires her to redecorate what was once her childhood home, Faith is sure that getting involved with the town’s notorious bad boy will only lead to trouble. But her heart has other ideas. And so do the townspeople of Serendipity …

In My Own Words:
Classic story of good little rich girl, falls for bad boy on a motorcycle.  But, Serendipity gives us a twist.  In the years since Faith and Ethan's spark charged kiss on the back of his motorcycle, many lives have changed, and not necessarily for the better.  Ethan's parents were killed by a drunk driver on the way to bail Ethan out of jail, thus starting a tailspin affect where Ethan leaves his two younger brothers to try and make it on his own.  While he has amassed lots of fortune and has come back to make things right, neither Nash or Dare are ready to buy what he is selling.  Old wounds cut very deep with these three.

Coming back to her hometown licking her own wounds, Faith stops by the one place that she will always remember as home.  Her mansion on the hill.  After her father is arrested for bilking people out of millions of dollars, to basically keep him in the style he has been accustomed.  When the arrest is made, her husband of convenience (on his part) decided to make it known he himself had a side attraction, to other females.  Coming home seemed the right thing to do, until her visit to her childhood home brought her face to face with Ethan Barron.

Faith and Ethan come to an understanding and start a working relationship while Faith helps him decorate his new mansion and he helps build her new design company.  All seems to be going well, and headed towards great things, until one night he is delivered a gift, by way of a teen with a chip on her shoulder.  Can this teen-goth-hellion be the glue this family so desperately needs?

Notable Quote:
"It's interesting how the mighty have fallen" (Ethan and Faith's first conversation since coming home)

Review:
I really enjoyed Serendipity.  I thought the teen brought a huge element to the book and made Ethan seem more....human.  There were several relationships to the story.  One the friendships that people make throughout their lives, the friendship between Kate and Lissa which are very different, but very dear to Faith.  The relationship between mother and daughter.  It was interesting to see their interaction and watch Faith stand up for herself.  The relationships between brothers.  As Ethan tries to put his family back together after tragedy.  It was almost heartbreaking to read, to know so much pain existed.  The relationship between brothers and sister.  That was an interesting dynamic.  Watching Tess bounce off each and every one of them, and then bonding to tightly with the one everyone swore had no heart.  Finally the relationship with the town.  As much as both Ethan and Faith hated what home represented, they both wound up there to heal.  I am VERY interested in Nash and Kelly's story.  The spark almost made my Nook burn up when she appeared.

Against The Storm - Kat Martin

Book Blurb:
Redheads like Maggie O'Connell are nothing but trouble. But Trace Rawlins, a former army ranger turned private investigator, takes the case anyway. After all, he knows a thing or two about women.

Trace can sense that something is wrong—Maggie isn't telling him everything. If these menacing calls and messages are real, why won't the police help her? And if they aren't real, what is she hiding?

As Trace digs deeper to find the source of Maggie's threats, he discovers a secret that no one was meant to uncover. And the only puzzle left to be solved is whether the danger comes from an unknown stalker…or from the woman he's trying his hardest not to fall for.

In My Own Words:
When Maggie can't ignore all of the weird hang-ups and notes left for her, she decides it is time to take matters in to her own hands and hire the best private investigator she has heard of...Trace Rawlins.  Trace has a sweet spot for redheads, and knows he looses his mind when they are near.  But can't help but take her case when the danger seems all to real.  As Trace begins to dig deeper in to the case, he realizes that Maggie hasn't been 100% honest with him, and he isn't sure what part of her story is real or fake.  As the calls become more frequent, and the danger becomes really close, will Trace bite the bullet and believe Maggie and help, or will Maggie be left to her own devices?

Review:
We met Trace in one of the previous "Against" books, and I loved him since then.  A rugged cowboy type that has a military background and a love for life...and redheads.  I really liked the secondary characters, I enjoyed getting to know them almost as much as the main characters.  Roxanne, the bestfriend....I sincerely hope she gets a story, she seems like she has a lot to say, I think she would be a kick in the pants.  The flow of this story was good, and I didn't ever feel like I was bored, but I also wasn't riveted to the pages like I have been with previous Kat Martin books.  So while this was a good edition to the "Against" series, I guess I look for more action when it comes to this series.  I did like it though, and am looking forward to the next book.

Love Me Tender - Alison Kent

Book Blurb:
Leaving behind her exciting career as a New York City fashion editor, Eden Karr - pregnant with twins - moves to small town Texas and opens a clothing boutique. Life in Arbor Glen is a far cry from the fast pace she's always thrived in, and she wonders if she's made a mistake - until sexy carpenter Jace Morgan strides into her store.

One look at beautiful Eden, and Jace know he's found his woman. Trouble is, she's still yearning for New York and his roots are now firmly planted in the Texas Hill Country. Somehow, he's got to show Eden that life here with him could be rich and full, and that the growing love they share is strong enough to keep them living happily ever after.

In My Own Words:
Retreating to small town America, seemed like the best idea to Eden.  She left her big career and big heart ache behind in NY when she found out she was pregnant and the father refused to make an honest woman out of her because he was married.  A fact she didn't know until that faithful day when she asked him, with her heart on her sleeve, to marry her and be a family with their unborn baby.  Moving to Arbor Glen was the best decision she has made.  She started up a clothing boutique and quickly started making life long friends with some of the residents.  When lots of business means lots of inventory, Eden decides she needs some work done to The Fig Leaf.  Jace is just the man she needs.  With haunts of his own in his past, Jace doesn't feel he can be a good friend, to anyone, and tries, without success, to distance himself from Eden and her unborn babies.  The two become fast friends with a spark that neither can or want to put out.  Will Eden's hold on NY hold her back from true love?  Will Jace's thought that he can't be good enough for her overcome his need for her?

Notable Quote:
Jace closed the door behind her and turned to Eden.  "What was that?"

"That....was a teenager."

Review:
I really liked the story of Jace and Eden.  The secondary characters were great, and you really got the feel that you were in the town and could really picture everything the writer was trying to get across.  I enjoyed watching the struggle Jace had with himself and when he finally gave up and couldn't stand it anymore, and Eden welcoming him with open arms.  I did tear up a little when he delivered her a special gift for the twins.  I had two issues with this book.  At times, for lack of a better word, the book was a little wordy.  The author seemed to describe things to death, to the point where I skimmed quite a bit.  My second qualm was some of the dialogue closer to the end was pretty cheesy.  When I pictured Jace in the beginning, I didn't picture him as someone that would cave so quickly in the way he spoke to his lady love.  I agree that to a degree some cheese is necessary because it is a love story, but it came to a point that I skimmed some of that too.  I did like the story, and I was surprised there wasn't a love lost point, where the biological dad showed up, but that didn't take from the story at all.  I enjoyed watching Jace and Eden fall in love and I really enjoyed watching Eden fall for the town.

Circle of Desire - Carla Swafford

Book Blurb:
As the top assassin at The Circle, a shadowy group of mercenaries, Olivia St. Vincent can hunt down anyone. She's been trained since she was a teenager to kill without feeling, to interact with men without love. But when she's kidnapped by the enigmatic leader of a rival organization, she learns she's been lied to for years. She never worked for the good guys.

Collin Ryker believes the sultry woman he's abducted knows more than she's telling about The Circle and its plans for complete domination. Over time, as they work together, Olivia's tenacity and vulnerability captivate him. But if he isn't careful, Collin will fall into the biggest trap of all: caring for a woman who can betray him to his greatest enemy.

In My Own Words:
On her way back to base, Olivia is abducted by a team of people that she believes are the enemy.  As the top assassin for The Circle, she takes out some of the worlds most dangerous and despicable men, or so she thinks.  While in captivity with OS, the company that branched off from The Circle, Collin Ryker must get Olivia to not only be a team player, with HIS team, but get intel she may have about The Circle and it's chief operator.  Olivia is shaken to her core when she realizes that the work she has done for many years, hasn't been for the good of mankind.  The only thing that can make her whole again, is love.  Can Collin provide what she needs?

Notable Quote:
"Damn, she's going to be pissed again.  We can't keep knocking her out." Collin scoped her into his arms. "let's go.  Thank goodness we've got a private plane back."

"I'm all for dumping her out over Texas." Rex followed, leaving the cleanup for his crew.

"Now what has Texas ever done to you?"

Review:
This book had many facets of suspense involved, which I really liked.  For a while, you weren't sure if Olivia was working for the good guys or the bad guys.  The secondary characters were easy to like, Rex...I have a soft spot for him.  The romance scenes were spicy and well written.  I guess my complaint about it would be that the sex scenes seemed to be....forced.  Like they were added just to have them in there.  Some of them, I remember saying...huh?  Like I said, they were well written, I just thought a lot of them were unnecessary and out of place.  The budding relationship with Collin and Olivia was fun to watch.  The unease of both of them, not sure who to trust, and the quips between them both, was very entertaining.  I am curious to see where this series goes, there were lots of twists and turns in this one, and intrigue is high for me for the 2nd book.

Under Fire - Rita Henuber

Book Blurb:
Coast Guard helicopter pilot Olivia Carver is on a very personal mission. Her twin brother, an undercover officer, was murdered by a drug cartel and she won't stop until she finds the man responsible for his death.

In the course of her own investigation, Olivia meets informant Rico Cortes. He's mysterious and sexy and despite her reservations, the two share a night of passion. But Rico turns out to be more than a one-night stand. He's a DEA agent, deep undercover in Miami's drug world, and possibly the one man who can help Olivia find the justice she seeks.

When Rico realizes his cover is blown, he isn't sure whether it was someone in the cartel or an inside agent. Olivia is the only one he can trust and together they venture on a dangerous, rogue mission to infiltrate a drug lord's inner circle…with Olivia as bait.

In My Own Words:
The one thing that Commander Olivia Carver wants in life, is to get justice for the murder of her twin brother, Danny.  What she didn't expect was to meet a tall, dark and handsome DEA agent that is undercover in the same organization that she needs to take down.  When Rico sees Olivia in the bar, his original intention of sending her packing with a stiff warning, goes out the door.  After a steamy night of sizzling passion, Olivia is ready to give herself a pat on the back for her first one-night-stand success.  When Olivia encounters Rico again, it is in not so friendly circumstances.  When he turns to Olivia for help, she must decide if getting in bed with the devil is worth the intel he may provide.  Having to go undercover herself, she realizes how much she has come to care for Rico, but when she is made, will the training and love persevere?

Notable Quote:
"Commander, if it's all the same to you, you get in that kind of trouble again, call the Marines.  Once flying with you was enough.  And, we aren't all that great.  It's just that everybody else sucks."  He winked and without another word, turned and hobbled away.  (SEAL rescuer to Olivia)

Review:
I LOVED THIS BOOK.  I can't wait to see what else this author comes up with.  I was surprised to find out this is her debut book.  This book has it ALL.  I was hooked from the first few pages when Olivia showed she was a pilot not to be messed with.  Olivia is a strong woman full of spunk and sass with the know-how to back it all up.  Rico is a tough as nails DEA agent that is sexy, with a killer smile and to many secrets for him not to be irresistible.  The secondary characters were just as much fun to read about. Mouse is a KICK!!  I was so happy for his own happy ending.  This book had non-stop action and some steamy hot sex scenes.  The banter was refreshing and Rico and Olivia had great chemistry.  My only complaint about this book, was it ended rather abruptly.  I am hoping that means we are being set up for another book :)

Don't Tell - Karen Rose

Book Blurb:
It was a desperate plan. But Mary Grace Winters knew the only way to save herself and her child from her abusive cop husband was to stage their own death. Now all that remains of their former life is at the bottom of a lake. Armed with a new identity in a new town, she and her son have found refuge hundreds of miles away. As Caroline Stewart, she has almost forgotten the nightmare she left behind nine years ago. She is even taking a chance on love with Max Hunter, a man with wounds of his own. But her past is about to collide with the present when her husband uncovers her trail and threatens her hard-won peace. Step by step, he's closing in on her- and everything and everyone she loves.

In My Own Words:
With not only her life at stake, but also her young son's, Mary Grace makes the decision that will change their lives.  She made the decision to die.  When she was reborn, she became Caroline and once her new life was set in motion, there was no stopping her.  While working at the university, she meets Max, who is now her new boss after the sudden and painful death of her mentor and dear friend.  She begins to trust and in that, begins to love.  Just as her life is on track, Mary Grace's life comes back to haunt her.  Will she be strong enough to face her past while keeping a firm hand on her future?

Notable Quote:
Petey nodded sagely. "And your shoulder must hurt, too."
Max's brows drew together in a mild frown.  "Why would my shoulder's hurt?"
"Daddy says you have a chip on your shoulder the size of a mountain."  (out of the mouths of babes lol)

Review:
I happened to have started this series out of order, mainly because I didn't know there was an order.  So after I read "You Belong To Me", I HAD to have more.  When I went to Karen's website, I immediately saw my mistake, but it was also a blessing, that meant there was MORE!!!

Don't Tell had everything you could want from a romantic suspense book.  A deep rooted hatred for evil that Caroline must overcome if she ever wishes to find true love.  This was almost painful to watch play out.  I have a great deal of respect for women in these situations and I feel that Karen Rose, did an amazing job of portraying the very real evil that lives behind closed doors.  I loved Caroline's support system and the fact that Dana didn't take ANY crap from Caroline and told her like it is.  Tom, amazing, resilient, protective Tom.  An amazing young man, and wonderfully written.  Then, the story with Max.  I loved that the author didn't rush the love story, but let it happen naturally.  The secondary family characters were a riot.  I hope Dana and David get a story, I think that could be...explosive!!

Night Moves - Stephanie Tyler

Book Blurb:
Kell Roberts has walked the thin line between life and death for so long that it now feels like home. He is a soldier, a survivor, and a loner. Still, Kell cannot turn his back on the beautiful woman caught in his firefight against the drug lords of Mexico. She says her name is Teddie, but Kell senses there’s much more to her story—and it’s about to pull him into a mission he didn’t sign on for: keeping her alive.

Teddie knows this lean, mean rescuer just saved her life, but the steel glint behind those soft gray eyes seem to be hiding something deep. The men after Teddie are deadly, but the man who holds her life in his hands and tempts her with his wicked touch is even more dangerous. He could make her dream about living and loving again. And if they can survive, maybe, just maybe, they can stop fighting the world and each other—and simply surrender.

In My Own Words:
Teddie is a US diplomat's daughter who has lost her entire family and is forced into witness protection.   She used to be a photographer/videographer. She’s strong-willed and determined to get vengeance on the ones responsible for her family’s murders, no matter the cost to herself.  Armed with a photo, a phone number of a "reliable" helper and her stiff back bone, she sets off, out of the "security" of the witness protection and directly in to the arms of Kell Roberts.

Kell Roberts is ex-Delta turned private contractor. He’s gruff and has learned early in life that the only one he can trust and depend on is himself. Guilt has been chipping away at him, causing him to turn away from his best friend, whom he almost lost in an ambush attack on his former team and also initially from the woman who turns out to be his anchor and love of his life.  The night Kell and Reid are set to end the lives of two very bad men, Teddie literally runs right in to them.  He has two choices, help her or leave her.  He can't bring himself to leave her.  The spark isn't instant, but the flame grows.  Can Kell forgive himself before he looses the only love he has ever felt for a woman?

Notable Quote:
And then it was time to stop playing cat and mouse with the marshals and lost them for good.  That was accomplished too easily and he cursed the fact that no one knew how to track anymore.  Fucking economy was ruining training.  (glad to see that the economy isn't only hitting us lol)

Review:
Night Moves is a part of the Shadow Force series, and I loved this one from the beginning.  The prologue did a beautiful job of showing Kell and Reid's lives before the military and how their friendship developed in to the lifelong friendship they have today.  The love story with Kell and Teddie wasn't an in your face romance, and I thought the balance of romance and suspense was right on.  I think my favorite part was when Reid announced that since Teddie belonged to Kell, she was to be protected by his brothers, and then it was done.  That is family, blood or not, family just the same.

I loved how Night Moves set up a book for Reid perfectly, and I sincerely hope he gets his own HEA and is snagged by a sassy marshall with a backbone made of steel and a heart of gold.

Sweet Revenge - Christy Reece

Book Blurb:
Jamie Kendrick went on a trip to hell at the hands of Stanford Reddington, a monster protected by money and power. Now, asking for Last Chance Rescue’s help, Jamie makes plans for her revenge. And Dylan Savage, one of LCR’s most skilled operatives, is given an assignment he despises but can’t refuse—to train the lovely Jamie but thwart her revenge plot at all costs. With tender ruthlessness, he pries open her most intimate secrets, and the attraction they’ve both tried to deny explodes into a scorching love affair—an affair that Dylan has to end. Months after Jamie stormed away from Dylan and LCR, the two meet again—at the home of Stanford Reddington. In the grips of hurt, anger, desire, and undercover danger, Jamie and Dylan will risk more than broken hearts: they’re risking everything to stop an evil fiend from destroying more lives, including their own.

In My Own Words:
After being held hostage by the savage monster, Stanford Reddington and his vile son, Jamie hatches a plan to not only bring him to justice for what he has done to her, but what he has done to countless women and children.  For her plan to work, she needs the help of the organization that helped to rescue her and reunite her with the sister she thought was dead.  Last Chance Rescue (LCR) does the impossible, they find, and rescue victims when all other avenues have been used up.  When Jamie meets with the boss, Noah McCall, and lays out her plan (most of her plan), he agrees to have one of his best operatives train her.  During the training, she thinks she is breaking through his tough barrier, and finally getting through to the man, she is irrevocably in love with.  When she finds out, he not only doesn't trust her enough to run her own mission, she believes he has been sleeping with her only to gather further intel.  She leaves, to only see him again, several months later, at Stanford's compound.  Shock turns in to pissed off, then on to camaraderie while they try to escape with their lives, and the information to help find the women who have been taken from their lives.  An unlikely accomplice helps seal the deal, but is it to late for true love?

Notable Quote:
"Finish your spaghetti.  You might need the nourishment." (for training or for bedroom games??)

Review:
This is the 8th LCR book, and brings us one book closer to the end of the series.  I for one will be totally bummed when this series finally comes to and end.  I loved everything about this book.  I think it is hilarious how Noah, the big, dangerous Noah McCall, who fought his HEA the entire way, is a matchmaker.  The banter between Jamie and Dylan was off the charts good.  I think my favorite parts were when Jamie surprised Dylan with what she had learned and was able to actually take care of herself and not be a liability.  The next book is going to be bitter sweet, then end of an amazing series, but the beginning of a new chapter in the author's life too.  Excited to see what Christy Reece brings us next.

Kissing Kelli - Kathy Carmichael

Book Blurb:
Rodeo champion and wealthy rancher, Bobby Gray Nelson, is used to women setting out to lasso him. But when he meets feisty Kelli Palmer, she refuses him on every count. He's always up for a challenge and is determined to woo this beautiful veterinarian who he thinks could be his soul mate.

Kelli Palmer doesn't believe love is in the chute for her. She's devoted herself to the animals she cares for and the family she adores. So when her sister claims dibs on the handsome cowboy, Kelli reins in her attraction and tells him to skedaddle.

Losing is not an option for this gorgeous cowboy. He comes up with a 5-step plan to place his brand on Kelli's heart.

The problem is, he can't even make it to the first step. Never fear, though. He's got a Plan B.

Can Kelli stand her ground -- even after his toe-curling kiss?

In My Own Words:
Dr. Kelli Palmer seems to have everything her little sister would love to have, brains, beauty a veterinary medicine degree, even the horses like her better.  So when Kelli goes to the family's 4th of July BBQ, and runs in to a handsome cowboy, how was she to know that he was taken?

Bobby Gray is a wealthy rancher that is looking to make his ranch stay on the map for generations to come.  The thing that would seal the deal, would be royalty.  It doesn't matter that Kelli has more of a chance of taking the throne as Elvis does being alive.  He wants her at the dinner with the banker, and he knows how to make it happen.

When sparks fly, will Kelli look at loyalty to her sister before passion and love?  Will Bobby Gray think of his family's heritage before his "soul mate"?

Review:
If I could use one word to describe this book, it would be cheesy.  The story line was weak (I mean, come on, the little sister has a hissy fit and flies to Germany to avoid her sister.)  The romance is non-existent (how can someone love someone else off of a few non-dates and ONE kiss?)  The family dynamics is just plain crazy, the level of money these families throw around is ridiculous.  I was put off by the cover, was even higher on the cheesy scale, but tried to live by the "don't judge a book by its cover."  To bad I didn't pay closer attention.  Not sure I will look for more books by this author.

Forged in Fire - Trish McCallan

Book Blurb:
Beth Brown doesn’t believe in premonitions until she dreams a sexy stranger is gunned down during the brutal hijacking of a commercial airliner. When events in her dream start coming true, she heads to the flight’s departure gate. To her shock, she recognizes the man she’d watched die the night before.

Lieutenant Commander Zane Winters comes from a bloodline of elite warriors with psychic abilities. When Zane and two of his platoon buddies arrive at Sea-Tac Airport, he has a vision of his teammates’ corpses. Then she arrives—a leggy blonde who sets off a different kind of alarm.

As Beth teams up with Zane, they discover the hijacking is the first step in a secret cartel’s deadly global agenda and that key personnel within the FBI are compromised. To survive the forces mobilizing against them, Beth will need to open herself to a psychic connection with the sexy SEAL who claims to be her soul mate.

In My Own Words:
When parts of a dream Beth has start coming true, she feels she HAS to warn some men that she sees die in her dream.  Her biggest fear is that they won't believe her and dismiss her as a nut.  Little does she know LC Zane Winters has his own psychic abilities and had already been alerted to something hinky on his flight, that he is taking with 2 of his platoon buddies.

While trying to help the team figure out the who/what and why, Beth realizes there is much much more to Zane.  And in the middle of a planning session, she is told that Zane believes she is his soul mate and her life is no longer her own, but she belongs to him. "HUH"??  But, while tracking down the bad guys, she becomes a believer when Zane enters her mind in their own, very cool psychic connection.


Notable Quote:
Except...if she was dreaming, wouldn't he be a jacked-up, massively muscled vampire warrior, rather than the testosterone laden, far-to-alpha-but human- pain-in-the-derriere?

Rating:
I will be the first to admit, I was very skeptical about this book.  I am not normally a paranormal lover, and went in to reading it with a very closed mind.  I couldn't have been more surprised when I loved it.  My book pals will never believe me when I tell them, I can't wait for the next in this series.  The psychic connection between Beth and Zane is wickedly awesome.  Their banter and his "your mine" attitude ratcheted up the lust level for me.  There was so much going on in this book.  My heart broke when the SAC watched the video of his wife, and then when she put all of what had been done to her aside to help the others.  I sincerely think my favorite part was when Mac blew off the bad guys balls, I gasped and giggled at the same time.  My only issue with this book, was that it seemed to end rather abruptly.  I am hoping the next book will pick up where this one left off, although waiting isn't my best attribute.

Welcome to Harmony - Jodi Thomas

Book Blurb:
Sixteen-year-old runaway Reagan has always wanted a place to belong. She's never had a real home of her own, but perhaps she could borrow someone else's. Under an assumed name and identity, she moves to Harmony, Texas, but keeps her distance from the welcoming townsfolk. Until prairie fires threaten Harmony-and Reagan learns the true meaning of family, friends, and home.

In My Own Words:
Harmony is a town that was founded by families that preferred to feud then get along.  And many years later, that seems to be the theme their current day family has decided to follow.  Reagan comes to Harmony hoping to make a new life for herself.  She convinces most of the town that she is the niece of the meanest man in Harmony, but the brother of her only friend that passed away.  Saying she was the granddaughter of her beloved friend gets her passage into the town and a home, for now.  Alex, the town sheriff, is the best sheriff that Harmony has ever seen, until Saturday nights roll around and she ends up at the local bar drowning her sorrows in the bottom of a bottle.  When her brother was killed in the line of duty 3 years prior, Alex blames herself.  The only person that can get through to her, that isn't scared of her, she hates with all the passion she can muster is Hank (her brother's bestfriend).

Notable Quote:
"So this falling off is part of it, win or lose. Noah, doesn't that seem strange to you? Seems like if you make the time, they should train the bulls to stop at the bell and let you off."
"I'll put that in the suggestion box" Noah laughed.

Review:
There was so much going on in this book that you would think you would be glued to the pages.  Unfortunately that wasn't the case for me.  This book was brought to me and said it was like Robyn Carr's Virgin River series, and I couldn't find that further from the truth.  While in the VR series, you get to meet lots of interesting characters, you meet them slowly, they aren't all thrown at you.  There is flow, where in this book, in my opinion, it was kind of thrown at you from all angles.  I did, finally, get in to the story line, but it was almost 3/4 way through the book, and that was because of the firebug that showed up.  Unfortunately, it was almost to easy to figure out who the fire-starter was which kind of took the fun out of it.  I don't see book 2 in my future.

Only Yours - Susan Mallery

Book Blurb:
Montana Hendrix has found her calling—working with therapy dogs. With a career she loves in a hometown she adores, she's finally ready to look for her own happily ever after. Could one of her dogs help her find Mr. Right… or maybe Dr. Right?

Surgeon Simon Bradley prefers the sterility of the hospital to the messiness of real life, especially when real life includes an accident-prone mutt and a woman whose kisses make him want what he knows he can't have. Scarred since childhood, he avoids emotional entanglement by moving from place to place to heal children who need his skillful touch. Can his growing feelings for Montana lead him to find a home in Fool's Gold, or will he walk away, taking her broken heart with him?

In My Own Words:
Montana is the free spirit of the triplets and took a while for her to find the place she belongs in the world. Not in the location sense, cause everyone knows, Fools Gold is home for her.  Montana started working with Max helping with the therapy dogs and fell in love, with each and every dog and with helping train them to become better at what they do best, making people happy.  Montana's first meeting with the new surgeon in town was when one of her therapy dogs got loose on his burn ward.  Not the best first impression and Simon was only to happy to let Montana know exactly what he thought of her and her dirty dog.

When Simon comes across a patient that might benefit from Montana's expertise, he swallows his pride and asks for her help.  Simon doesn't become attached to anyone, only staying for short periods of time at one hospital, no matter how good of an offer he gets.  No emotional entanglements, has always been his motto.  Something about Montana calls to him, no matter how much he fights it, he is loosing his mind and his heart.

Notable Quote:
"I thought all surgeons has huge egos."
"I have my moments too." One corner of his mouth twitched. "Plus, that stick up my butt takes a lot of room."

Review:
The more and more we meet people of Fools Gold, the more I want to move there.  This was another hit for me.  I loved that Montana and Simon had to work for their HEA.  Both head strong, and both with hearts of gold, hidden behind all the sarcasm and cynicism.  The secret of the "Max" tattoo on Montana's mom may have been solved, for now, but the intrigue has made me almost giddy, to think she may also get a HEA soon.  Reading a Fools Gold book, is like catching up with old friends, getting to get little glimpses of old characters, and meeting new ones.  Can't wait for Only His.

From This Moment On - Bella Andre

Book Blurb:
For thirty-six years, Marcus Sullivan has been the responsible older brother, stepping in to take care of his seven siblings after their father died when they were children. But when the perfectly ordered future he's planned for himself turns out to be nothing but a lie, Marcus needs one reckless night to shake free from it all.Nicola Harding is known throughout the world by only one name - Nico - for her catchy, sensual pop songs. Only, what no one knows about the twenty-five year old singer is that her sex-kitten image is totally false. After a terrible betrayal by a man who loved fame far more than he ever loved her, she vows not to let anyone else get close enough to find out who she really is...or hurt her again. Especially not the gorgeous stranger she meets at a nightclub, even though the hunger - and the sinful promises - in his dark eyes make her want to spill all her secrets.One night is all Nicola and Marcus agree to share with each other. But nothing goes as they plan when instead of simply tangling limbs, they find a deeper connection than either of them could have anticipated. And even though they both try to fight it, growing...

In My Own Words:
After a betrayal from the woman he thought he would marry, Marcus decides that he is going to throw caution to the wind and ease some of his pain by going to a club and taking a woman home to never see her again after the morning.  The same night Marcus goes to the club, Nico decides if she is going to be tagged as a loose, wild woman, she might as well act the part.  When she walks in to the club, the moment their eyes meet, nothing else exists.  Things move along at a fast pace, and before you know it, they have both been hit by the love bug.  When Nicola realizes that her lifestyle isn't what she would wish on the man she loves, she tries for a clean break.  Marcus has never had to work for something this hard in his life, but decides it is worth it, and moves full steam ahead.

Review:
While I enjoyed the premise of the book, the execution wasn't up to a Bella Andre book.  Marcus is a 36 year old man, who walks in on his girlfriend of 2 years having sex with someone else, then that night he goes to a club and falls in love....really?  Nicola is a 25 year old that wants nothing more than to be a star, but dresses up like a slut and takes the first man home that she sees....really?  The only thing that I thoroughly enjoyed, was the interaction between the family.  I looked forward to Marcus' book, a strong business man that has spent his life taking care of everyone else, but this book made him seem like a pushover and sap, not a strong man.  I am not sure book 3 is in my future.

Wedding Survivor - Julia London

Book Blurb:
When a pair of A-list movie stars decides to combine a wedding with an extreme sport outing, ex-stuntman Eli McCain isn’t too happy. One of the Thrillseekers Anonymous founders, he was jilted at the alter a year ago—and he has no interest in hearing wedding bells. Unfortunately, hes’ been outvoted, and now there’s a crazy wedding to stage with a bridezilla from hell.

In comes wedding planner Marnie Banks to save the day—and, she hopes, make some romantic connections with Hollywood’s jet set. Only one problem stands in her way: Eli McCain, who may look like a movie star, but has no appreciation for the finer things in life. 

In My Own Words:

When her life is falling apart, what more can Marnie do but plan weddings?  With her old life as a computer programer behind her, she is forced to move in with her parents until she gets back on her feet.  While at a wedding seminar, she overhears rumors about a wedding planner being needed to produce the wedding of the century for two of the biggest stars in the world.  When she finagles an "audition" to try out as the planner, she is unmoved by the Thrillseekers Anonymous' methods of trying out a planner.

When she finally gets the job, she realizes really quickly that she will be working very closely with Eli, one of the founding members of TA.  When she is forced to confront her attraction to him head on, the way she is going to confront the wedding.  With emotions on high, between her and the bride, Marnie has no other choice than to put aside what she thinks she feels for Eli and move forward.  Eli has been jilted once before and he has no plans to let any woman get close enough to him to break his heart again, but a little affair can't hurt....right??

Notable Quote:

"this is just about the coolest dress on the planet, thankyouverymuch, and please don't be offended when I say that I'm not about to take any fashion advise from Howdy Doody who thinks workout clothes are the same as bangin' around clothes."

Review:

This was my first Julia London book, but I can promise it won't be my last.  The banter between the two main characters was hilarious.  The "book club" with Marnie's mom and her friends cracked me up, a book club where they drink and gossip and don't read any books, brilliant.  I loved Marnie determination and grit, she wasn't afraid to take the bull by its horns and make the most of a situation even when the wedding turned in to a cliche of what could go wrong will.  My only issue with the book was that it seemed to go on and on about the same things.  It was kind of repetitive in places.  That being said, I can't wait to read more about the guys in TA and hopefully revisit Marnie and Eli.

Good Girls Don't - Victoria Dahl

Book Blurb:
With her long ponytail and sparkling green eyes, Tessa Donovan looks more like the girl next door than a businesswoman—or a heartbreaker. Which may explain why Detective Luke Asher barely notices her when he arrives to investigate a break–in at her family's brewery. He's got his own problems—starting with the fact that his partner, Simone, is pregnant and everyone thinks he's the father.

Tessa has her hands full, too. Her brother's playboy ways may be threatening the business, and the tension could tear her tight–knit family apart. In fact, the only thing that could unite the Donovan boys is seeing a man come after their "baby" sister. Especially a man like Luke Asher. But Tessa sees past the rumors to the man beneath. He's not who people think he is—and neither is she.

In My Own Words:
There are few things that Tessa knows for sure, but she would do anything for her brothers, and that is a fact.  When Jamie messes up a deal, Tessa knows she can't let their eldest brother find out about the mess until she can fix it.  She can't stand to see them fight, and they fight a lot.  The only thing her brothers agree on is, Tessa is something that needs protection, at all cost.

When the bar is broken in to, Detective Luke and his very pregnant partner Simone, come to secure the scene.  When Jamie realizes he knows the detective, Tessa is instantly intrigued.  When it turns out that Luke might be useful in her ploy to keep her family together, she befriends him.  One date turns in to two...When the brothers find out about her dating Luke, all hell breaks loose.  Not only is he not worthy of their "baby" sister, he has a ton of baggage and it appears he has a baby on the way.  Secrets have gotten Luke in to many sticky situations and his heart of gold isn't helping, if people would just see past the rumors, they would find out, he isn't what they expected....and neither is Tessa.

Notable Quote:
"You're just using me for my body," he joked in defense.  "I know." She sighed. "It's so great."

Review:
With all of the drama all around them, I wasn't sure there would be a HEA.  The book wasn't what I thought it would be.  There was a ton of family drama on Tessa's side, but when the chips were really down, she had a strong support system, those brothers would do anything for her.  One scene closer to the end where Tessa is crying in Eric's arms, literally brought tears to my eyes.  I thought the "if Eric finds out he will flip" was a little over played.  As for Luke, he was the kind of guy that you could bring home to mom, if you had a truck to carry all his baggage.  The chemistry between Tessa and Luke was great and their banter was funny and sexy at times.  I enjoyed reading the book, and each time I put it down, I would wonder what the heck she would think of next.

SWEET Justice - Christy Reece

Book Blurb:
Honor Stone is a young, idealistic FBI agent when her path collides with Seth Cavanaugh. For a girl who has never walked on the wild side, the dark and dangerous Seth is a temptation she can’t refuse. But then Seth walks out the door and out of her life. Five years later, Honor is an operative with the elite Last Chance Rescue organization and Seth is a desperate ex-cop searching for his missing niece—one of many young women who have mysteriously vanished from college campuses. Going undercover, Honor will attract the maniacal cult leader behind the kidnappings and find a way to work with Seth—while steering clear of the passion and need that’s just one touch away from explosion. Seth knows he had all the right reasons for the wrong he did five years ago. And from the moment he sees her—and takes her in his arms again—this former undercover man will risk everything for one more chance with Honor.

In My Own Words:
After a bad break up and a boyfriend that ended up on the wrong side of the law, her heart broken, Honor decided to dive in to her job with the FBI missing persons, head first.  After a case almost cost her her life, she decided it was time to make a change.  After working with the LCR team on several cases, her decision was a pretty easy one and found herself in Paris working for Noah McCall.  When Noah approached her about taking her first lead, she jumped at the chance, until she knew she would be coming face to face with the one man that she could never forget, Seth Cavanaugh.  Seth's niece had been taken several weeks back and with no where else to turn, he comes looking to LCR to help him, but he wanted permission to be on the team as well, which meant working very closely with Honor.  While Seth and Honor delve in to the motivation of missing college students all over the country, their passion is just below the surface.  How long before they explode?  It has been 5 years since they have spoken, and in the span of a few weeks, will they find themselves in each others arms or will the evil past and present win?

Notable Quote:
"I'm a prick."...... "Well they say the first step is admitting the problem."

Review:
I have been a fan of the LCR (Last Chance Rescue) series since it first arrived on the book shelves.  All of Christy's books are filled with hope, love and loss and Sweet Justice was no different.  I loved getting to know Seth and Honor and also getting to revisit some of our past friends from LCR as well as becoming better acquainted with some of the newer members.  Christy promised a sick and twisted villain and she totally delivered.  I don't know if I was more disgusted by him or his slimy daughter and then there was his son...sheesh, it was a family of madness.  This was a book I had a hard time putting down!!!

The heat between the couple was right on, the suspense was edge of your seat and the ending, was happy.  What more can you ask for from one of your favorite authors?  Oh yeah, don't end the series??  Yes you heard me right, these are the final 3 LCR books...that is enough to make one cry.  I am looking forward to  Dylan & Jamie's story which hits book stores on October 4, 2011.

Deep Disclosure - Dee Davis

Book Blurb:
After spending years in prison under deep cover, black ops agent Tucker Flynn joins A-Tac, an elite CIA unit masquerading as faculty at an Ivy League college.Nothing can shake him-except a vulnerable young woman marked for death.

DUAL DECEPTION

When Tucker is assigned to protect-and secretly investigate-Alexis Markham, he expects a routine mission. But this mysterious beauty has a past even darker than his: her father created a horrifying new biochemical weapon-and was murdered to keep it secret.

Alexis has spent the last decade racing to stay one step ahead of the shadowy operatives who will stop at nothing to possess her father's formula. She can trust no one, not even her handsome new bodyguard. But the heat that flares between them is impossible to resist. Will giving in to passion bring her the safety she's always craved, or will her love for Tucker draw him into a killer's sights?

In My Own Words:
Talk about being at the wrong place at the wrong time.  When Tucker figures out he has become a creature of habit, he figures one last cup of coffee won't kill him.  As he sits in his favorite booth, at his favorite coffee shop, he can't help but think of how far he has come since his break from the prison.  Breaking in to his thoughts, a beautiful woman comes in to meet with an older man and they seem very happy to see each other.  Soon, Tucker can tell the conversation has goon awry, and the woman stalks out of the coffee shop angry.  Before Tucker can even begin to process what just happened, a bomb is detonated blowing away the man and part of the coffee shop.

While watching the TV, a news alert informs Alexis that George, he one time friend and father figure, has been blown up.  Being on the run her whole life, she sees this as a sign that it is time to move on, and change her name, again.

When A-Tac sees this as an opportunity to put some very bad guys away, they seize the opportunity and assign Tucker as Alexis' protection.  But with so many bad guys on the loose and all of them intent on killing or kidnapping her, who can she really trust?

Review:
This is the 5th book in the A-Tac series.  I am not sure how Ms. Davis can top this one.  The book has it all.  Bad guys coming from each direction, even so far as to kill each other, you have a formula that everyone wants, but no one knows where it is.  There is an amazing love story that seems so fragile yet so meant to be.  Then you have all of the A-Tac players back and helping keep justice, still reeling from their own betrayal.  When I first started reading, I was SURE I knew who done it, but I was completely wrong.  I was also SURE I knew what the key was to the formula, and again....wrong.  I love when I find out along with the team, makes the book more enjoyable to me.  I really can't wait for Hannah and Harrison's book, coming April 2012.

Check out A-Tac and other books by Dee Davis.

My One and Only - Kristin Higgins

Book Blurb:
Divorce attorney Harper James can't catch a break. Bad enough that she runs into her ex-hubby, Nick, at her sister's destination wedding, but now, by a cruel twist of fate, she's being forced to make a cross-country road trip with him. And her almost-fiancé back at home is not likely to be sympathetic.

Harper can't help that Nick has come blazing back into her life in all of his frustratingly appealing, gorgeous architect glory. But in Nick's eyes, Harper's always been the one. If they can only get it right this time, forever might be waiting—just around the bend.

In My Own Words:
Harper James is a well known and sought after divorce attorney because it appears she has a heart of ice and is cynical to the core about all things love.  When she gets the news that her adored baby sister is getting married to husband #3, Harper is understandably suspicious.  To add insult to injury, Willa will be getting married to her ex-husband's brother, which means, she will be seeing Nick again.  Its been 12 years, she's over it, right?

When Nick stops in the middle of the road to admire the scenery, the last person he expects to see is Harper striding towards him.  He loves her so much that he hates her.  The next few days will be the hardest of his life, having to be so close and not be able to kiss her and strangle her.  She was the reason their marriage didn't work, he couldn't let himself go there again.

When life threw her a few curve balls, Harper had no other option than to travel back home with Nick.  Thrown in a car together in a cross country trip, one would think there would be plenty of time to reconcile and make things right, right?

Notable Quote:
"Marry me Harper.  God knows you're not the girl of my dreams, but you'll have to do."

Review:
This book had a lot going for it.  Harper was a quick witted attorney that was as cynical as the day is long.  Her look on love and a lasting love was learned from her mother up and leaving on her 13th birthday.  That is bound to have some affects on a girl.  Nick is a good natured, loving and adorable architect that has worked his adult life to make something of himself.  The banter between the two is hilarious.  There are lots of outside stories also going on, Harper's dad and step-mother, plus her sister and Nick's brother, then you have a few different office personnel from each of them that get involved as well.  I think my favorite secondary character is Carol, Harper's secretary.  The parts I didn't really care for were the thought scenes.  Some of them were just way to long, I ended up skimming more than I read during those parts.  There were several typos that just started bugging me after a while and I started looking for them, which is never a good sign.  That being said, I really did enjoy the story and getting to know this rather dysfunctional family.