Just One Of The Guys - Kristan Higgans

Book Blurb:
Being one of the guys isn't all it's cracked up to be…

So when journalist Chastity O'Neill returns to her hometown, she decides it's time to start working on some of those feminine wiles. Two tiny problems: #1—she's five feet eleven inches of rock-solid girl power, and #2—she's cursed with four alpha-male older brothers.

While doing a story on local heroes, she meets a hunky doctor and things start to look up. Now there's only one problem: Trevor Meade, her first love and the one man she's never quite gotten over—although he seems to have gotten over her just fine.

Yet the more time she spends with Dr. Perfect, the better Trevor looks. But even with the in-your-face competition, the irresistible Trevor just can't seem to see Chastity as anything more than just one of the guys….

In My Own Words:

Chastity isn't your normal "girl next door", she is almost 6 foot tall, and takes her work outs very seriously which takes her out of the petite category.  When a chance comes for her to move back to her hometown, she takes it with the decision to use the opportunity to work on being more girlie.

Trevor Meade is her first love and also a surrogate brother and best friend to all, not to mention a hunky doctor.  While doing a story on local heros, things start to look like she might get her man.  The only problem is while she is still madly in love with him, he seems to have moved along fine.  How does she make him see her as a woman, not just one of the guys?

Review:

I had a really hard time getting in to this story, but I am really glad that I stuck it out.  I really enjoyed all of the relationships in this book.  It all seemed so...real.  I highly recommend this story for anyone looking for a cute contemp.

All Summer Long - Susan Mallery

Book Blurb:
Former underwear model turned entrepreneur Clay Stryker has loved, tragically lost and vowed that he'll never risk his heart again. After making his fortune, the youngest of the rugged Stryker brothers returns to Fool's Gold, California, to put down roots on a ranch of his own. But he's frustrated to discover that even in his hometown, people see him only for his world-famous…assets.

Firefighter Chantal (Charlie) Dixon grew up an ugly duckling beside her delicately beautiful mother, a feeling reinforced long ago by a man who left soul-deep scars. Now she has good friends, a solid job and the itch to start a family—yet she can't move toward the future while she's haunted by painful memories.

Clay finds an unexpected ally, and unexpected temptation, in tomboyish Charlie, the only person who sees beyond his dazzling good looks to the real man beneath. But when Charlie comes to him with an indecent proposal, will they be able to overcome their pasts and find a love that lasts beyond one incredible summer?

In My Own Words:

What does a former underwear model do when he retires?  He heads to Fools Gold to start a life with this family and a ranch of his own, with ideas of his own.  What he doesn't expect is to find he is attracted to the town tom-boy, firefighter.  Since losing the love of his life, he has long stated he would never risk his heart again, but can Charlie change that way of thinking?

Charlie comes from a life no one can understand.  A famous mother that wants nothing more than to mold Charlie in to her own image, only to suffer disappointment when Charlie has no talent and isn't as attractive as a mother would want.  Coming to Fools Gold was the best decision Charlie ever made.  She has friends, a life and a job she loves.  When she comes to Clay with a proposal, and needs his help in a very intimate way, she is afraid she has lost her marbles completely.  To throw gas on that fire, dear old mom shows up and wants a Hallmark reunion.

Notable Quote:

"We're trying a new salad.  It's seasonal, with apples and fried chicken. You can get it with grilled chicken, but then I'll pretty much thing less of you. I'm just saying."

Review:

The Fools Gold series has had some hits and misses for me and this was in the hit column.  I loved that Clay took Charlie up on her proposal and their relationship grew slowly, not only romantic but also as friends.  Being able to see Clay's brother's and mom a bit, I admit, was a bonus.  I adored how the author didn't just throw the mother in there and have Charlie and her have a lovable moment and all was better, it was a struggle on both parts which made it way more real.  Can't wait for little sis' book, gonna be an explosion.

Danger Next Door - Katie Reus

Book Blurb:
After an explosion leaves detective Grant Caldwell scarred he quits his job and tries to hide from his well-meaning family while he heals. When Belle Manikas, a beautiful new neighbor, moves in next door with problems of her own he finds himself drawn to her even while he tells himself she’s nothing but trouble. Even though he knows he’d never have a chance with a woman like her—not with his disfigurement—he can’t stay away.

Thanks to severe health problems as a child Belle grew up sheltered and smothered by her loving, if overbearing, family. Now that she’s finally out on her own she plans to wring everything she can out of life. When she sets her sights on her brooding neighbor nothing can stop her from getting him into bed—until a madman fixates on her.

With Grant now working for Red Stone Security, he sees it as his duty to protect her at all costs. Unfortunately a violent criminal is stalking Belle and will stop at nothing until he’s destroyed her.

In My Own Words:
When Grant's new neighbor is moving in, he does the only thing he thinks he can do, he watches.  He knows he would have no place in the beauty's life and decides if the only thing he can have is from a distance, he would enjoy.  When Grant is about to take a swim, he hears a loud disturbance at his new neighbor's house, he can't help but investigate and what he finds leaves him pissed and on edge.  As the strange break-ins and harassment keeps coming at Belle, he wonders if she is nothing but trouble or worth her weight in gold.  He knows that he enjoys his time with her, and she sees passed his scars to the real him, but is it enough?

Belle grew up loved by all, moving in a new home, should be an exciting time but with a family friend not taking no for an answer and strange things happening all around her, she feels safe in the presence of her secretive neighbor.

When a crazy man decides Belle is the way to get back at Grant, he will stop at nothing to see his mission through, no matter the cost.  Can Grant and Red Stone figure it out in time?

Review:
This is the second book in the Red Stone Security series and I really liked this one.  I wasn't all that thrilled with the first book, but I am really glad I didn't give up on the series.  I enjoyed the chemistry between Grant and Belle, and the banter that seemed to be ever so present when they were around each other.  I am very much looking forward to the 3rd book.

One Night With a Hero - Laura Kaye

Book Blurb:
He wants just one night…

After growing up with an abusive, alcoholic father, Army Special Forces Sgt. Brady Scott vowed never to marry or have kids. Sent stateside to get his head on straight—and his anger in check—Brady’s looking for a distraction. He finds it in his beautiful new neighbor’s one-night-only offer for hot sex, but her ability to make him forget is addictive. Suddenly, Brady’s not so sure he can stay away.

…what they need is each other.

Orphaned as a child, community center director Joss Daniels swore she’d never put herself in a position to be left behind again, but she can’t deny herself one sizzling night with the sexy soldier who makes her laugh and kisses her senseless. When Joss discovers she’s pregnant, Brady’s rejection leaves her feeling abandoned. Now, they must overcome their fears before they lose the love and security they’ve found in each other, but can they let go of the past to create a future together?

In My Own Words:
While trying to out run his inner demons, running has become his life line.  When he ends a run in the park to see a stunning woman gazing out in to nothingness, his first response was to leave it alone, he doesn't do relationships, but breaking his own rule, he ambles over to cheer her up.  One thing leads to another, and they end up together when he walked her to her truck.

Dealing with demons of her own, Joss decides to not to feel slighted when the stranger doesn't ask for her number.  Waking up to find the stranger is her new neighbor brings issues of its own.  When the chips are down, she wonders if he will ever be able to see her as an equal and as someone he could share his life with.  When the strip turns pink, she gets her answer, but not the one she wanted.  Now it is up to Brady to change her mind.

Review:
I enjoyed the interaction with Brady and Joss, and even Brady and his family, what I didn't enjoy was how he professed his love within like a week.  I felt the time tables in the book were way off.  Brady's reaction to his father's passing was understandable, even his reaction to the pregnancy, but I find it hard to believe that he had an epiphany immediately and decided he wanted the baby he swore ALL his life he didn't want.  I just found parts of this story very rushed and not completely thought out.

Forever and a Day - Jill Shalvis

Book Blurb:
Grace never thought she'd be starting her life over from scratch. Losing everything has landed her in Lucky Harbor, working as a dog walker for overwhelmed ER doctor Josh Scott. But the day his nanny fails to show up, Grace goes from caring for Josh's lovable mutt to caring for his rambunctious son. Soon Grace is playing house with the sexy single dad . . .

With so many people depending on him, Josh has no time for anything outside of his clinic and family-until Grace arrives in town. Now this brainy blonde is turning his life inside out and giving a whole new meaning to the phrase "good bedside manner." Josh and Grace don't know if what they have can last. But in a town like Lucky Harbor, a lifetime of love starts with just one day . . .

In My Own Words:
As one of her many jobs, Grace takes on dog walking for the over worked town doctor, Josh Scott.  When dog walking turns in to live in nanny, Grace makes up her mind to set her life straight and get a job to please her family.  When her friend needs help getting her bookkeeping in order, little does Grace  know but her life is about to take a much different path.

Review:
I have loved all of the Lucky Harbor series and this is no different.  So many LOL moments and the chocolate meetings.  The friendships that were formed in this series have been awesome to read about, dropping everything at a moments notice to listen to a friend's woes, is something that every woman hopes to have in her life.  I love that Grace was the "grace" in the lives of Josh and Anna, and that she wasn't afraid to tell it like it is, no matter the cost.  Josh needed someone just like her, and so did Anna, if he wanted to admit it or not.  Recommend to all, but read in order, lots of characters from the past pop up.

Run The Risk - Lori Foster

Book Blurb:
When Detective Logan Riske goes undercover to find Pepper Yates, a potential link to his best friend's unsolved murder, he vows to gain her cooperation by any means necessary. But the elusive beauty is more suspicious—and in far more danger—than he expected. And the last thing Logan needs is to start caring for her….

Pepper has spent years dodging the corrupt club owner who will stop at nothing to keep her silenced. She can trust no one, not even the handsome new "construction worker" who's moved in next door. The heat between them is undeniable. But will surrendering to passion bring her the safety she so desires—or will her feelings for Logan draw them both into a killer's crosshairs?

In My Own Words:

After years on the run and in hiding, when a handsome new neighbor shows interest in Plain Ole Sue, Pepper can't help but take what she has so long denied herself, companionship and kindness.  Keeping herself on guard, she is slow to trust and even slower to open up.  When Logan finally gets in, she realizes he isn't what he appears to be and her trust was ill given.  Logan must convince Pepper to not only forgive him but to trust him again as the killer is now after her.  Can she trust again, not only with her life but with her heart?

Review:

What a way to start a series.  A little lust, intrigue and camouflage.  I loved everything about this book.  Suspense in that you didn't know what was going to happen next and a love connection that is severed with lies, but then mended with love.  Then you have the brother and sister element, and hide and seek. I was SURE I knew who the dirty cops were, and I was soooo very wrong.  I couldn't put this one down.  Can't wait for the next in line.

Quinn - RC Ryan

Book Blurb:
As a young boy, Quinn Conway was shattered by his mother's mysterious disappearance. Today, as the oldest of the Conway brothers, his only concern is protecting his family and their ranch. One look at beautiful, strong-willed Cheyenne O'Brien tells him she's also no stranger to tragedy. A series of increasingly dangerous "accidents" are plaguing her and her land, and Quinn can't stand idly by while a woman is in danger. Fiercely independent, Cheyenne isn't one to lean on others, yet she can't deny her attraction to the rugged rancher offering help. Soon, the passion building between them proves as wild and untamed as the land she loves-and just as impossible to resist. But a relentless enemy is about to make one final devastating move. To survive, Quinn and Cheyenne must put their cherished freedom-and their hearts-at risk . . .

In My Own Words:

While chasing down a wolf killer, Quinn is not only intrigued with what he finds he is mesmerized.  Cheyenne isn't any ole rancher, she is and independent ball of fire topped with an extra helping of sass. Soon Quinn realized that all is not what they seam in the O'Brien house hold starting with a fire that was meant to cause more harm then it did.  While staying at the Conway ranch, Cheyenne comes to love their family and soften her heart toward a certain Wolf Whisperer.  When the "accidents" and near misses start to add up, Quinn decides it is up to him to stop them.  Putting her life and her heart in Quinn's hands, Cheyenne is in for the ride of her life.

Review:

I am a huge fan of RC Ryan, and was very excited for this new series.  I loved the chemistry between Quinn and Cheyenne.  I wasn't sure who was taming whom, which was fun to watch.  The first few scenes had me in tears, and I wasn't sure I wanted to read a tear jerker, but I am so glad that I pressed on.  That teary scene made Quinn who he is, and in the same way, each brother took something from that day.  The brothers are all so different but yet so much of their blood is in the ranch.  The "bad guy" was glaringly apparent to me from the start, but I didn't think that took away from the story at all.  My only issue was the redundancy in some of the wording.  I can't wait to get started on Josh.

The Last Honest Woman - Nora Roberts

Book Blurb:
After her racecar driver husband dies in a crash, Abby O’Hurley Rockwell is left with two sons—and secrets to keep. Journalist Dylan Crosby is convinced that there is more to the young widow than meets the eye, though he’s unprepared for just how different Abby is from what he expects. Far from being a pampered, spoiled housewife, Abby proves to be a woman of substance, with just enough of a mystery to her and her past to keep Dylan intrigued—and wanting more…

In My Own Words:
Finally deciding it was time to tell her side of the story, Abby O'Hurley makes a deal with the devil.  Well, a devil with a pen and paper.  Dylan Crosby is known for his biographies, known for getting the truth no matter the cost.  When he smells some half truths coming from Abby, he vows to get to the bottom of it.  He knows the kind of woman Abby is, pampered, sheltered and loaded but when his illusions are put to the test, is the truth really what he is after or is Abby's heart more important?

Review:
Abby is spunky and loving and a mother we all wish we had.  I really enjoyed getting to know the characters, especially the family.  Unfortunately that is where the "like" about this book ends.  I was a bit disappointed at the abruptness of the ending especially having so many loose ends left.  The whole point of this story was that Dylan was there to write a book, yet the story ends with no book.  Being left with nothing by the mother in law, seems to be that should have been resolved as well, especially for the children.  I don't see the second book in my future.

No One To Trust - Katie Reus

Book Blurb:
Computer security specialist Elizabeth Martinez has never been able to turn her back on her brother Benny. When his risky lifestyle finally lands him in harm’s way, Elizabeth finds herself dragged into the dangerous underworld with him and into the cross hairs of one of Miami’s death-dealing drug lords. Only after her ex-boyfriend saves her does she realize she might have no choice but to depend on the one man she has tried so desperately to forget.

Former Marine Porter Caldwell never should have let Elizabeth walk away from him all those months ago. She means more to him than anything and now that she’s in danger and turned to him for help, he won’t make that mistake again. When a local gang targets her and she’s nearly killed in a drive by shooting, Porter vows to do whatever it takes to keep her alive. Even if it means turning his back on all that he’s sworn to uphold.

In My Own Words:
While finding herself, AGAIN, bailing out her brother.  Elizabeth finds herself in need of some bailing out herself.  Coming face to face with one of the worlds most ruthless, vile drug dealers.  He gives her a proposition...if he could have her for 6 months, the debt her brother owes would be forgiven.  Before she could even answer, in barges Porter, her boss' brother and operator at Red Stone Security, oh and he is her ex-boyfriend.  While trying to keep Lizzie safe, Porter must remember that she broke up with HIM and his job is just that, a job.  Easier said than done.  As the hail of bullets keep coming, Porter realizes he would do anything for her, now he just had to prove that to her without getting them both killed.

Review:
I really wanted to like this book.  It had everything that a good RS should have, but the ending was very abrupt which was really annoying.  There was a HUGE build up with the bad guy, Orlando, then all of a sudden he is arrested and Porter loves her and all is well.  It was just a little off putting for all of the drama in the beginning then at the end just wrapped it all up with a sweet little bow.  That being said, I will still be reading book 2 in the series, as I really did enjoy the characters.

Twisted - Laura Griffin

Book Blurb:
Rookie detective Allison Doyle only has room in her life for one goal: to prove to everyone that she is every bit as capable as the men in her small-town Texas police department. But when a vicious murder sends shockwaves through her community, Allison finds herself at the epicenter of a bigger challenge than she ever imagined. Legendary FBI profiler Mark Wolfe arrives to consult on the case and puts forth a startling new theory—that the crime is not the handiwork of the police’s prime suspect, but of an elusive psychopath Mark has been hunting for more than a decade.

Teaming up with Mark puts Allison’s professional reputation—and her heart—in jeopardy, but she shoves these risks aside so she can tap into one of the FBI’s best assets. With Mark’s help, as well as the elite group of forensic scientists known as the Tracers, Allison uncovers the killer’s true identity. Or does she? As the net tightens around a psychopath, Allison begins to wonder if she and Mark have trapped a killer or become ensnared themselves….

In My Own Words:
Not many police forces are keen on accepting help from the FBI so when rookie Allison teams up with Mark Wolfe, no one thinks this is the best move for her career.  But when Mark tells Allison and the task force his idea that the prime suspect in a recent murder isn't the guy they are looking for, Allison decides to take her own path and follow Mark's lead.  Mark has been hunting this killer for years, the last thing he needs is a young rookie cop mucking up his investigation.  Soon Mark figures out that Allison is a good person to have on his side and they form an easy relationship.  When Allison believes that she knows the bad guy, the heat is on.  But who is the one caught, the bad guy or them?

Review:
This was not my favorite Tracer book.  I didn't feel that the Tracers were very involved.  One of the reasons I love the Tracer series is to get to see the inner workings of the Dephi Center, not a whole lot of that.  The chemistry between Mark and Allison seemed almost forced.  I wish there would have been a little....more.

Rev It Up - Julie Ann Walker

Book Blurb:
     He Never Misses A Target
Jake "the Snake" Sommers earned his SEAL code name by striking quickly and quietly-and with lethal force. That's also how he broke Michelle Carter's heart. It was the only way to keep her safe-from himself. Four long years later, Jake is determined to get a second chance. But to steal back into Michelle's loving arms, Jake is going to have to prove he can take things slow. Real slow...

     She Aims To Make Him Beg
Michelle Carter has never forgiven Jake for being so cliché as to "love her and leave her." But when her brother, head of the Black Knights elite ops agency, ticks off the wrong mobster, she must do the unimaginable: place her life in Jake's hands. No matter what they call him, this man is far from cold-blooded. And once he's wrapped around her heat, he'll never let her go...

In My Own Words:
4 years ago, Jake made one of the biggest mistakes of his life.  He left the woman he loves and let his friend have her, hell he pushed them to be together.  Now, he hopes to rectify that situation and make her understand why he said the things he said and that he has never stopped loving her.  Michelle has been through lots of loss, one being her husband and best friend.  What she doesn't plan on doing is making the same mistake twice so when Jake walks back in to her life, her mission is to make him walk back out before he can cause more damage.  But when danger comes knocking, she must put her life and the life of her son in Jakes capable hands and thus leave her heart wide open.

Review:
This is the 3rd book in the Black Knight series and I think it keeps getting better and better.  I love the dynamic of the team and how once you are one of them, you are always one of them, no matter how much time escapes.  I was pretty sure I knew Michelle's secret, but I loved how it came about, and it was cheesy or drawn out.  One of the other really cool things is the flow of the books.  Each book seamlessly flows to the next.  Great series, I highly recommend.

Creed - Kristen Ashley

Book Blurb:
Way too young, eleven year old Tucker Creed and his six year old neighbor, Sylvie Bissenette, find they have something awful in common. Creed then decides he’s going to do everything in his limited power to shield his Sylvie from her ordeal. So he does and Creed and Sylvie form a bond that grows and blossoms with their ages.

They plot to leave their lives behind, the town they live in that will hold them down and the histories they share that, unless they break free, will bury them. Sylvie goes to their special place, Creed never shows and she doesn’t see him again until it’s too late.

With Creed gone, Sylvie is forced to endure a nightmare and do the unspeakable to end it. To deal, she develops a hard shell with sharp edges that very few can break through. So when Creed again finds his Sylvie, he discovers the girl he loved is locked away and he has to find his way back into her heart without getting shredded in the process.

In My Own Words:
Is it possible to be grown by the age of 6?  Sylvie Bissenette proves that she is well beyond her age while running from an abusive father in to the arms of much older and from the wrong side of the tracks Tucker Creed.  While sharing in their own misery over the years, a strong unbreakable bond is formed. On Sylvie's 18th birthday, the day they planned to leave all of the evil behind, Creed left...without her.  Sylvie left on her own must endure her own brand of hell until she finds her own brand of strength.  Many years later, Creed is back with one thing on his mind.  Win her back, at all costs.

Review:
This is the second book in the series and I just loved it.  I liked that you get bits and pieces of the history as the main story goes along, you aren't hit with all kinds of history at the beginning.  Sylvie is sassy and smart and tough as nails, but she has a soft side that only the ones closest to her get to see.  Creed is wounded, and needs to be put back together.  The two of them together is dynamic and great reading.

Summer Blog

Hello everyone,
This is very late in being posted, and I apologize for that.  Summer is a busy time in our home, we travel about 80% of the time, so the 20% that I am home is spent catching up on laundry, paying bills and sleeping.  I will not start my review blog up again until after Labor Day.  If you are still looking for recommends, you can check me out on GoodReads, I write shorter reviews on my page there.

Hope you are all having a wonderful summer, and I will be back raring to go in a few weeks.  :)


Hope

Hope's GoodReads Link

Golden Trail - Kristen Ashley

Book Blurb:
Tanner Layne and Raquel Merrick fell in love young, hard and fast and both of them knew a beautiful life they thought would be forever.

Until Rocky left Layne, no explanation, no going back.

Layne escapes The ‘Burg only to come back years later because his ex-wife has hooked herself to the town jerk and Layne needs to make sure his sons get raised right. Layne manages to avoid Rocky but when Layne gets three bullets drilled into him while investigating a dirty cop, he can’t do that because Rocky stops avoiding Layne. They make a deal to work together to expose the dirty cop but they have no idea the strength of their enduring attraction or the sheer evil at work in The ‘Burg.

As Tanner Layne and Raquel Merrick play their game and dance around the pull that draws them together, Layne has to discover the dark secrets buried so deep in Rocky’s heart she doesn’t even know they’re there at the same time untangle a sinister web of crime so abhorrent it has to be stopped... at all costs.

And to do it, Layne has to enlist everyone, including his ex-CIA mentor, Rocky’s detective brother, the town’s unpredictable informant and Layne’s two teenage sons all the while stopping Rocky from doing something crazy and keeping their game secret so Layne won't get himself dead.

In My Own Words:
Rocky and Tanner have been broken up for 17 years.  In that time Rocky has been married and became a teacher.  Tanner was married had to sons did the military thing and is back to open his own private agency.  What Tanner doesn't expect is Rocky showing up on his door step asking for him to be her partner in bringing down a dirty cop.  What Tanner doesn't further expect is to actually take the job, along with a list of others.

Working with Rocky is one thing, but pretending to be her rekindled beau may be harder than it looks because just being near her make his heart skip a beat but he knows getting involved with Rocky could be...rocky as she left him with no word and broke him in to a thousand pieces.

Trying to find out Rocky's big secret, while keeping the teen girls safe in town and keeping his ex-wife's looser boyfriend from screwing up his kids lives all the while trying to not get killed, proves to be a lot to handle, but never boring.

Review:
I loved this story.  When Rocky's secret was revealed and she broke down, I was crying right along with her.  Talk about a hard time to come to terms with.  I enjoyed that Rocky wasn't your typical romance girl, she has balls, and she was sassy when she needed to be but she didn't need to be rescued, she needed to be a part of the operation no matter what that operation was.  I enjoyed getting to see some of the past characters from the Burg series and seeing what they were up to.  Next up...Mike's story.

Skin Deep - Pamela Clare

Book Blurb:
Broken on the inside

...
Megan Hunter has worked hard to get back on her feet, leaving the nightmare of her teenage years behind. The last thing she wants or needs in her life is a man. But when she is attacked by someone from her past, a scarred stranger intervenes, saving her life and that of her little girl. Looks can be deceiving, for despite the man’s rough appearance, she feels safe with him. And for the first time in her life, she knows the stirrings of desire.



Broken on the outside

...
Nathaniel West paid a high price serving with the Marines in Afghanistan. He returned to his family’s ranch in the Colorado mountains to heal—and be alone. Disfigured as he is, he has put all thoughts of sex and romance aside. But something about Megan brings him back to life, heats his blood, makes him feel like a man again. As danger pursues her, and the truth about her past is revealed, he vows to protect her—and to heal her wounded spirit.

But confronting the past is never easy—especially when it’s carrying a gun. Megan will have to learn to trust Nate to survive and to claim a passion that is much more than … Skin Deep.

In My Own Words:

Megan Hunter overcame a dark and scary world to land on her feet with a beautiful daughter a loving brother and friends that she considers family.  The one thing she wasn't prepared for was Nate West.  A vet that is overcoming his own inner and outer demons.  Being visibly scarred, he comes home to Colorado to heal and move on.

When Megan's creepy and dangerous ex shows up and demands money, it is Nate that is there to rescue her, and from there, the relationship and trust begins to grow...slowly.  With the initial rescue, comes a feeling of worth and a fierce protection for Megan that Nate can't explain even to himself.

When Megan feels the need to get out of town for just the day, to clear her head and get away from the mess of police, ex boyfriends, and gangsters the first person she calls is Nate.  Neither of them imagined  a day trip would lead to passion, honesty and trust. 

Review:

I am a HUGE fan of the I-team series, and have come to expect a lot of the author, and I wasn't disappointed.  Skin Deep has it all, and from cover to cover it was impossible to put it down.  Knowing of Megan's troubles from reading her brother, Marc's, story, it was refreshing to be able to see a woman who has had so many wrongs happen in her life to see it being righted.  The connection between Nate and Megan was evident from their first meeting and his gentle touch with her and her daughter was a treat to watch play out.  The story had an amazing flow, and I can't find one criticism about the story.  I do have to add, I REALLY enjoyed my man Julian in the Beer Run short story at the end ::sigh::

The Comeback of Conn MacNeill - Virginia Kantra

Book Blurb:
Val Cutler’s restaurant, Wild Thymes, is in trouble. As a condition of her father’s loan, she is forced to accept the advice of Yankee business consultant Conn MacNeill...but she doesn’t have to like it.

Conn is determined to prove himself after his recent firing from a high-stakes, high-profile venture capital company. Wild Thymes is small potatoes. But the recommendation of Val’s father could be just what Conn needs to get started on the comeback trail.

Neither Val or Conn is prepared for the attraction that flares between them, quick and fierce as a kitchen fire. But things get even hotter when they begin to uncover the secrets behind the restaurant’s troubles. Secrets that someone would kill to keep...

In My Own Words:
After leaving her home town and starting a life of her own, the last thing Val Cutler wants to do is come back and start all over again.  But, when her beloved aunt dies and leaves her house to Val, that is  exactly what she does.  Starting her own restaurant is the only enticing thing about the idea.  But, no matter how hard she works, or how much money she thinks she is making, she can't run in the black.  Her only recourse is to ask for daddy's help.  Daddy's condition...work with Conn MacNeill.

Conn is a well known venture capitalist and knows that working for Mr. Cutler can make or break him in the business world, but when things in Val's business starts to not add up, it looks like Cutler's very own bank may be the cause.  Helping Val get to the bottom of her business worries turns in to the last thing he needs to worry about.

Review:
I enjoyed this story.  There were many twists and turns, but even at the beginning you were pretty sure you knew who the bad guy was, that wasn't really a mystery.  The flow of the story was good, and the building of the characters was also good.  The problem is...I didn't find anything extraordinary about any of it, it was just...good.  That being said, I will be reading the next in this series, as this was a quick, easy read.

Karma - Carly Phillips

Book Blurb:
Police Officer Dare Barron has had a crush on Liza McKnight ever since he was a teenager. But despite his lifelong attraction, the closest he’s ever come to interacting with her is watching Liza regularly bail out her brother at the station. Dare’s dark past with Liza’s brother, Brian, has always kept him from pursuing her.

But suddenly Liza finds herself in need of protection and Dare appoints himself as the man for the job. And while the sizzling attraction between Dare and Liza draws them together, the past that Dare and Brian share threatens to keep the two apart forever.

In My Own Words:
Sometimes the one thing we want to forget the most from our past comes back to haunt us which is the case with Dare and Liza.  He wants so much to forget and redeem himself for the party he left when he was 15 years old, resulting in the death of a friend.  The party was held at Liza's house by her brother, and every time he sees Liza, all he can think is what a screwup her brother is and how could she help him the way she does and still have a conscience?

Liza has secrets of her own, and none of them is she willing to share with the uppity Officer Barron.  When they are continually at the same place at the same time, some of the walls start to crumble and the pair start to actually like each others company.  When her brother's screw-ups start tracking her down and threatening her, Dare feels it is his responsibility to rush in and save her, until he is forced to confront demons from his own past.

Review:
These two have baggage with a capital "B".  I loved the chemistry between them, and watching them argue was almost as much fun as watching the makeup sessions.  I enjoyed getting to see the past couples and of course Tess.  It has been awesome to see this family evolve over that past 3 books not only with their romantic relationships but with each other and their new sister.  Karma was a wonderful wrap up of the family, with lots of new additions and healing coming full circle.  My only complaint was the large amount of editing issues.  Names were switched a few times, and punctuation was missing several places, it became about me finding the errors instead of focusing on the story.  I do recommend this book, and of course, the editing won't stop me from buying another Carly Phillips book, but in this one, there were more than a few.

Count to Ten - Karen Rose

Book Blurb:
In all his years in the Chicago Fire Department, Lieutenant Reed Solliday has never experienced anything like this recent outbreak of house fires—devastating, vicious, and, in one case, homicidal. He has another problem—his new partner, Detective Mia Mitchell. She's brash, bossy, and taking the case in a direction he never imagined.

Mia's instincts tell her the arsonist is making this personal. And as the infernos become more deadly, one look at the victim's tortured faces convinces her and Reed that they must work closer to catch the killer. With each new blaze, the villain ups the ante, setting firetraps for the people Reed and Mia love. The truth is almost too hot to handle: This monster's desire for death and destruction is unquenchable...and for Mia he's started the countdown to an early grave.

In My Own Words:
Coming back from her "time off" to find herself caught up in a case that will take all of her will, and sass to get through it.  Reed Solliday is pretty sure the last thing he needs in his life is a new partner, especially if that partner is a bossy, sassy know it all like Mia Mitchell that has a huge chip on her shoulder and enough guilt to sink the Titanic.  When the fires start getting bigger and the body count starts to add up, the only thing this new duo can do, is work together to figure out what is going on...while trying to stay away from each other as attraction is also magnetic.  When they start getting to close to the truth, Mia finds herself the center of the monster's sights.  Can they figure it out before one of their own family is killed, and before Mia gets caught by the very man she is hunting.

Notable Quote:
She drew in a breath. "I want to formally state my opposition to this stupid plan."
Spinnelli nodded. "Formally noted. Do it anyway."

Review:
Another heart stopping story by Karen Rose.  I have come to understand that I will probably not sleep well at night when I read her books.  She has a way of writing, that puts you in the midst of the craziness.  I enjoyed this book, it didn't take long to figure out who was the fire bug, and I wasn't sure when the book started if I could follow it.  When it started and throughout the book, you switch between story lines, and at first, I wasn't sure there was much connection, and that kind of threw me a little, but once the puzzle pieces were trickling in, I completely enjoyed it.

The First Sin - Cheyenne McCray

Book Blurb:
Alexi Steele is determined, relentless, and driven to protect the innocent. She’s a top agent of the NSA’s clandestine Recovery Enforcement Division, specializing in human trafficking and sex crimes. Her current mission: To infiltrate the inner circle of Boston’s exclusive S&M clubs in order to save thirteen young women who are about to be auctioned off to the highest bidders. But Lexi’s only way in is under the “control” of her new partner in crime, Nicholas Donovan.

Nick will do whatever it takes to bring down the billionaire sex-ring mastermind who’s kidnapped his sister. But the games he must play as Lexi’s “dominant” are burning away his icy control, and blurring the lines between partners. Meanwhile, their enemies are closing in as they enter a devastating race against time…bringing them dangerously close to THE FIRST SIN.

In My Own Words:
Lexi has already been to hell and back in a previous life, and now she will take on the monsters that are stealing young women for profit.  Being assigned a new sexy partner wasn't part of the deal though, she is the boss and that is that.  Until orders come down from the top, and she realizes she has no choice.  Nick has his own reasons for wanting to take down this human trafficking ring.  His sister had been taken and he would do anything to get her back.  Now all they have to do is get invited to the inner circle of the the high class BDSM club, become members, learn their secrets and take them down.  Simple enough...but when things don't go as planned, Lexi and Nick are up against the clock and some really bad people.

Notable Quote:
"I'll do my therapy with my Glock."

Review:
Holy Cow, is the first thing I thought of when describing this book.  Romantic Suspense, BDSM and craziness all wrapped up in one book.  When I was almost done, all I could think was what else can this poor girl go through?  Lexi is a strong, sassy, intelligent RED agent.  She is leading her own team and refuses to take failure as an option.  Her professional life has been what nightmares are made of and she is determined to be good at her newest job as a team leader.  I enjoyed watching her realizes her strengths and her weaknesses.  This book is not for the faint of heart.  It takes you in to the deep dark world of human trafficking and BDSM clubs.  I describe it as being very disturbing while being super hot at the same time.  The author knows exactly how to make you "feel" for and with the characters.  There is someone in this book that you will relate to, no matter who you are.  I highly recommend this one.

Larkspur Road - Jill Gregory

Book Blurb:
Fifth grade teacher Mia Quinn expected a tranquil summer in her hometown of Lonesome Way, Montana, sewing for her quilting group’s exhibition fundraiser and caring for her rescued dog, Samson. But all her plans for a relaxing break are thrown out the window when Travis Tanner—the boy who broke her heart in high school—returns to town with his ten year old adopted step-son.

A former FBI agent, the boy Mia once knew is now well over six feet of male muscle—and he still has the power to make Mia lose her train of thought with just a glance. When Travis asks her to tutor his troubled son, Mia quickly discovers that the sparks between them are hotter than ever. As danger comes to Lonesome Way and family secrets come to light, will Travis and Mia realize that love can be even better the second time around?

In My Own Words:
Family secrets seems to be what is on the agenda for Mia's summer vacation.  Between trying to find out what happened with her grandmother and her estranged aunt, and her niece showing up out of the blue carrying her own secrets, Mia's summer is looking like it will be anything but relaxing, especially when she finds out her first love is back home in Lonesome Way.

Travis is looking to set down some roots, reconnect with his son, reevaluate his career and try to rekindle what once was.  Many years to late, he isn't sure the last is possible until it becomes evident that his son may need a little tutoring and Mia comes highly recommended.  When he can finally look directly in her eyes, he sees a glimmer of the past, and vowes to do his best to make things right.

Notable Quote:
The promises of a man are as meaningless as the ramblings of a fortune cookie. (I love old sayings that pop up in books)

Review:
I was looking forward to this second book in the Sage Creek series and I wasn't disappointed.  I feel this book is a book about second chances.  The second chances that come by family, love and friendship.  The author did an awesome job of expressing anguish, pain and love either by the thoughts the characters were thinking or the actions you followed in their journey.  I loved all of the references to the country music groups, made you feel like you were there, in the moment with the characters.  I highly recommend this book to anyone that needs a great contemporary comfort read.  (On a side note, Travis starts his own security company in this book, full of Navy SEALS....I am seriously hoping that turns in to a new Romantic Suspense series....HINT HINT).

Unforgivable - Laura Griffin

Book Blurb:
At first, Mia Voss thinks it’s just bad luck when her already lousy day ends with a carjacking, but what seems like a random incident is followed by another sinister episode. A DNA expert, Mia has made it her mission to put away vicious criminals. Suddenly, she’s become the target of one. And the only way to protect the people she loves most is to deliberately destroy her reputation and risk letting a killer walk free.

Once, Mia trusted Detective Ric Santos, but that was before Ric let his turbulent past ruin his chances with Mia, the sexiest, most intriguing woman he’s ever met. But he can tell when she’s lying—and when she’s scared. The key to catching a sadistic madman lies within a long-buried cold case that has haunted Mia for years. Only she can uncover the truth, but first, Ric will have to get her to entrust him with her secrets . . . and her life.

In My Own Words:
Mia has spent years building up her reputation as a leading DNA expert. Priding herself on being ahead of the criminals AND up on the newest research, Mia is a sought after expert.  When Mia's life takes a turn with a seemingly cut and dry carjacking, she is shaken but refuses to let the bad guy get the better of her...until her sister and nephew are threatened.  When that call comes, she realizes she will do anything to keep them safe, including risking her reputation, her job and her life to keep them safe.

Detective Ric Santos has worked with Mia before.  He respected her then, and at the time thought something more could come of it before his old demons came to the forefront.  Now he is working with her again and can tell she is holding back from him.  Can he get her to trust him in time to help her?  Will he be to late to save her life AND her reputation?  And can he keep his hands off of her in the mean time?

Review:
Book 3 in the Tracers series keeps the action on high octane.  I really enjoyed this book, and I think it was my favorite of the series thus far.  Each book seems to offer a different "type" of Tracer.  Mia is a meek mannered woman who has a sole focus on her career but don't discount her as mild, she can have sass when she needs to and she isn't afraid to get down and dirty when the need arises.  Ric fights his attraction for a long time, and it is fun to see him cave and let loose.  They are not only a great couple, but they make an awesome team as well.  I liked that there are a lot of technical information in the book without overwhelming you with mumbo jumbo that doesn't really affect the outcome of the story.  I can't wait for the next Tracer book.

Somebody To Love - Kristan Higgins

Book Blurb:
After her father loses the family fortune in an insider-trading scheme, single mom Parker Welles is faced with some hard decisions. First order of business: go to Gideon's Cove, Maine, to sell the only thing she now owns—a decrepit house in need of some serious flipping. When her father's wingman, James Cahill, asks to go with her, she's not thrilled…even if he is fairly gorgeous and knows his way around a toolbox.

Having to fend for herself financially for the first time in her life, Parker signs on as a florist's assistant and starts to find out who she really is. Maybe James isn't the glib lawyer she always thought he was. And maybe the house isn't the only thing that needs a little TLC….

In My Own Words:
The ultimate betrayal would be being betrayed by your parents, and Parker Welles learns this first hand when her father is caught, tried and convicted of insider trading.  In order to pay the money back that he owes, he had to liquidate everything, including Parker's trust fund, her son's trust fund and selling all of their possessions.  The only thing left to her name is a shack that was left to her by an old aunt.  Shack might be a little bit to generous of a term.

James Cahill is Parker's father's personal attorney, and as far as Parker is concerned, he is the devil himself.  Knowing that James helped her father leave her and her son with nothing, he isn't earning many points for himself by asking if he can help fix up the shack to sell.

So many ups and downs Parker and James go through in the weeks it takes to rebuild the house.  Getting to know each other and become friendly, staying friendly might take a little more work.  When secrets start to unravel and crazy family starts popping up, they are lucky to keep their sanity much less a friendship or anything else.

Notable Quote:
"Do you know I've gained eleven pounds since last year? You hit thirty-five and bam, all those things you ate in your twenties launch themselves on to your ass."

Review:
From the beginning till the end, I had a hard time putting this book down.  There isn't really any huge plot you have to figure out.  No bad guys hiding behind any bushes (unless you count crazy family members). But this was an enjoyable read.  I loved that even though everything was taken from her Parker didn't just say "oh me, what to do now?" She pushed up her sleeves and got to work.  James had an uphill battle from the start, but was persistent and genuine.  I LOVED how she called him Thing-One.  I got a giggle each time I read that.  The complex but easy friendship that Parker has with her son's husband was refreshing and real.  Such a great comfort read.

Afterglow - Cherry Adair

Book Blurb:
Pleasure with a price.

A high-profile celebrity wedding in Monaco is the kind of A-list event security specialist Rand Maguire excels at. Everything goes like clockwork, until guests start inexplicably losing all their inhibitions. . . .

Painful secrets from the past.

Rand is no stranger to the effects of Rapture. His chemist father’s attempt at a cure for depression caused Rand’s mother’s death years ago, and put his father away for her murder. Now someone is circulating Rapture in a campaign of terror, intending to manufacture and sell it on a global scale. But with no leads, Rand feels the heat.

Passion with no limits.

Sexy Lodestone agent Dakota North is sent to help Rand kick-start his search, armed only with her uncanny sixth sense. But what they discover in their race across Europe is more far-reaching and lethal than an erotic street drug. From a Barcelona bank heist to a million-dollar arms deal in Paris, Dakota and Rand give in to an insatiable craving for each other in nights of pure carnal delight, no senses left untouched. No Rapture necessary.

In My Own Words:
There are worse things then having to work a high-profile destination wedding, but not so sure there are worse things than said wedding guests drinking spiked champagne.  When the wedding guests toast with the drink, then all of them immediately start having sex like rabbits, Rand Maguire is flabbergasted.  He immediately calls his friend at Lodestone who promises to send his best agent to help.

Dakota North walks in to the room of embarrassed wedding guests, she is immediately aware that the drug they ingested was Rapture. But that seemed impossible since the recipe and everyone else that knew about it was blown up several years before.  Having had a relationship with Rand in the past, she knows working with him will be a recipe for disaster but when the leads say that this drug is being manufactured for global use, there seems to be no other choice.  Dakota and Rand must work together to help stop what could possibly be the worst epidemic in history.  BUT, can Rand forgive the woman that sent his mother the drug that killed her and also was the person to put his father behind bars?  Can Dakota possibly keep her own secrets safe while Rand is so close?

Notable Quote:
..."or kill you"
"They almost succeeded"...."Bummer for the bad guys, YAY for me."

Review:
I am intrigued by the abilities the agents of Lodestone have, so I was excited to read Afterglow.  I am on the fence about this one.  The villain was truthfully one of the worst I have ever read (which is great), I thought I knew who it was, then I was certain that it couldn't be, then it turned out it was.  I enjoyed watching the interaction between Dakota and Rand, and when all the secrets finally came out, watching them accept who they are and who they can be together.  Dakota had lived through so much, and Rand, dealing with his own demons, had turned cynical and almost mean.  The part I didn't really care for was the drug.  I mean, really....a drug that takes away your inhibitions and makes you have sex anywhere, anyhow with anyone??  It just wasn't a drug that I believe, especially for mass market and terrorism.  That being said, I really do look forward to the next book, and seeing more of these special gifts the Lodestone agents posses.

Against The Sun - Kat Martin

Book Blurb:
She's got the face of an angel and the body of… well, isn't that what he'd expect from an exotic dancer? But there's something about this girl that Johnnie Riggs can't shake. The former army ranger is hot on the trail of an elusive drug lord—and suddenly very hot under the collar, as well.

Amy's got her own agenda to pursue: her sister is missing and Amy seems to be the only one who cares. She'll enlist Johnnie's help and do her best to ignore her growing attraction to finally get some answers. But when the two trails begin to converge and reveal something even more sinister than they imagined, their mutual desire is the least of their problems. They'll bring the truth to light…or die trying.

In My Own Words:
While leaving the comforts of her home and her job teaching kindergartners behind wasn't easy for Amy, she knew she would do what ever possible to find out what happened to her sister.  She heads for the bright lights and big city, takes over her sister's last job as a stripper and starts working angles to see if she can dig up any leads.  When the trail is more than ice cold, Amy has no choice but to suck in her pride and ask for his help.

Johnnie Riggs' knows that Amy isn't what she appears, but what the hell does he care, right?  When Amy approaches Johnnie about helping her find her sister, he just can't say no.  As soon as Johnnie starts poking around, things seem to get weirder and weirder.  When the trail suddenly looks like it is leading them to a notorious drug lord, Johnnie is no long only afraid for only the sister, he is also worried for Amy.

Notable Quote:
And he'd have to let her go.  He was who he was and she was who she was.  A not-so-ex-Army Ranger and a kindergarten teacher.

Just another of God's little jokes.

Review:
I think this is my favorite so far of the Raines of Wind Canyon series.  Johnnie is a major hottie and a protective streak that can make you swoon.  Amy is determined and no slouch, has a get it done attitude and takes no crap from anyone.  Coming together they are almost combustable, and sparks to fly.  Amy isn't to fond of taking orders and Johnnie isn't to fond of orders not being followed, but it works.  This series seems to get better and better with each book.

His Secret Past - Katie Reus

Book Blurb:
Six years ago, Alexis Baptiste's world was turned upside down when Hunter Cassidy disappeared without a trace, leaving her alone and pregnant. She's finally moving on with her life when he resurfaces, just in time to rescue her from a would-be assassin. Forced to join him on the run to protect herself and her young son, Alexis is now in even more danger: danger of falling for Hunter all over again.

Betrayed by rogue CIA agents after infiltrating an infamous drug cartel, former DEA agent Hunter Cassidy has spent years trying to clear his name. He's not proud of the things he's done, and knows he doesn't deserve a future with Alexis, or the son he never knew he had, but he's determined to protect them from the men who ruined his life. Convincing Alexis to trust him—and denying his feelings for her—is going to be the hardest mission he's ever faced.

In My Own Words:
When Hunter left Alexis 6 years ago without a word, all she could do was heal her broken heart and move forward.  It wasn't until later she realized she was pregnant with his son.  Now, she has put her life together and started a wonderful life for her and her son, until she catches a glimpse of him watching her.  Why is he back? Does he know that he is a father?  What does he want?  So many questions that need many more answers than she wanted to think about.  BUT, when someone tries to kill her and Hunter is there to save the day, the list of questions mount.

Hunter left the best thing he had ever had and all because he was blackmailed by a rogue CIA agent that would rather work for money than his country.  Trying to clear his name, he knows that the agent that betrayed him knows his only weakness....Alexis.  In a race against the clock and a battle in trying to figure out the good guys from the bad ones, Alexis and Hunter must also figure out how they handle each other, knowing they still both have strong feeling for each other, and a son.

Review:
I enjoyed this story.  I liked that Alexis was sassy and smart, not the kind of girl that needed help constantly but yet she was first and foremost a mother and she took that very seriously.  Hunter was a typical alpha male, but tried so hard to stay away from Alexis for her own safety, not wanting her mixed up in his world.  The chemistry written between the characters was immediate and I enjoyed watching them struggle to keep their distance.  I was pretty sure I knew the bad guys from the good guys, but the story really had you guessing right up till the end.  My one issue was with the editing, it just seemed in the ebook copy I have, there were tons of mistakes, mis-working and punctuation.

Desert Heat - Kat Martin

Book Blurb:
Fear And Desire Will Find You…No Matter Where You RunFor Ph.D. candidate Patience Sinclair, leaving the ivy-covered campus of Boston University for the wide, open spaces of Texas means a chance to stop looking over her shoulder at every turn. Traveling incognito with the Triple C Rodeo will help her finish her dissertation on the American West while hiding in plain sight. But she can't hide from Dallas Kingman. The champion rider makes it clear that he's watching her…and he likes what he sees. But everything about Dallas, from his country drawl to his rugged Texas charm, is unfamiliar to Patience. And if there's anything she understands with chilling clarity, it's what it costs to fall for the wrong man. As Dallas and Patience make their way through the heart of the southwest, a series of mysterious accidents turns the rodeo into a nightmare of fear and suspicion. Someone's obsession has turned deadly, and Patience has moved closer to danger than she ever could have imagined…

In My Own Words:

Spending the summer on the road traveling on the Rodeo circuit is just what Patience Sinclair needs after the year she has had with the stalker from hell.  What she didn't expect was to find a cowboy that she "clicks" with.  Dallas is everything she never thought she wanted.  A cowboy who's life is lived on the road from one rodeo to another, but there is so much more to Dallas than she first thought.  When "accidents" start to happen to the circuit, the danger seems to come closer and closer to Patience and when the accidents end up getting someone killed, everyone is on edge.

Review:

I liked the premise of this story, and even the relationship with Dallas and Patience.  I loved watching the friendship of Patience and Shari, her travel companion.  The life on the road was an interesting on to read about, the ups and downs and from town to town.  The hang out and friendships that are made over the years.  I was a bit put off by Dallas' sleeping with other women but still having his mind on Patience.  If he couldn't get her out of his mind, why the heck was he sleeping with anything that offered?  And I didn't really understand why he was so annoyed that she was getting her Ph.D.  That was a big point of contention with them, and I don't see the issue.  All in all, I thought it was an ok book, I am on the other hand, looking forward to reading her sister's book.