Gone to Her Grave by Melinda Leigh

This is the second book in the Rogue River novella series by Kendra Elliott and Melinda Leigh. I don't recommend reading this as a standalone although it is possible to do so. In the first novella, we got the beginning of Stevie's story. This story is the beginning of the story of Stevie's sister, Carly, and her estranged husband, Seth. It almost feels like going back in time since some of the events in this book are occurring at the same time as events from the previous book. We just get to see what was happening in other parts of town and in other people's lives. There were a few new views on mysteries from the first novella and also some new clues. I really liked Seth and admired his dedication to his family even though he was acting a bit caveman. Carly was very stubborn and resistant to Seth even though she obviously still loves him. In the end, however, when the danger is greatest, Carly turns to Seth and trusts he will keep her safe.

I enjoyed this novella and am glad Net Galley provided an opportunity to read and review it.

Dangerous Surrender by Katie Reus

While this book is part of a series, I read it as a standalone. I have read several of this author's previous books, but none in this particular series. Honestly, I had no problems reading it out of series, but will probably go back and read what I've missed. In this story, Taylor witnesses the murder of her boss and mentor then finds herself shot and framed for the act. When she does the only thing her panicked mind can think to do, run, she ends up injured, alone, and incapacitated after breaking into her best friend's house. Roman happens to be checking on his friend's supposedly empty home and instead finds Taylor. He doubts her story, but it is soon verified as the violence she fled follows her. Roman works in personal security and at the request of his and Taylor's mutual friend, agrees to help Taylor stay safe and prove her innocence. The second task proves to be a bit easier than the first. Taylor uses her computer investigation skills to thwart the killer, and her spunky personality quickly wins Roman's heart.

This was a fairly quick easy read for me with likable characters and a believable fast moving plot. I appreciate the chance from Net Galley to read and review this book.

Forced Disappearance by Dana Marton

I had read a couple of this author's previous books, so I felt confident I would enjoy this one. This novel was a bit of the reverse on the typical romantic suspense formula. Miranda was sent to rescue Glenn and remained his protector throughout the story. Glenn was by no means a weakling, but he had Miranda's back and yielded to her tactical knowledge and Army experience. The couple's previous experience together made their attraction to each other that much easier even though Miranda resisted everything but the physical despite Glenn's desire to try for something more serious. Through their treks through the jungle of Venezuela, the two grow closer and closer as they only have each other to depend on. Even though Miranda is confident when she is battling or evading the enemy, she has secrets which make her insecure with a long term commitment to Glenn. Glenn doesn't give up but sets out to help Miranda find healing in exchange for her sacrifices to save him.

I liked the quick pace of the book and the frequent action. Net Galley provided a copy of this book for review.

Blackness Within by Norma Jeanne Karlsson

Can I just start by saying, Wow! I totally didn't expect this book! I spotted it on Net Galley as a newly added book available for request. I though it sounded interesting but was afraid to request it since it was book 5 in a series. I checked out the series and decided to try the first book. I was completely hooked and read the first four books this past weekend. I should probably say devoured rather than read, because that's what I truly did. Every single book had aspects which really threw me for a loop. Personally, I love that in a book. So, when I finally requested a copy of this book on Net Galley, I expected to be shocked...only I wasn't just shocked.  I was completely floored. This book took this series to a whole different emotional level. I actually found myself so invested in Natasha's trauma that it affected my day. Crazy, I know, but wow! The author took some big risks with the direction she took in this story. It was hard to know at any given point who was good and who wasn't. I would love to give a full synopsis of the storyline, but I'm just not sure how to do it justice without spoilers. I will just say to the brave at heart, read this series in order, and don't miss this book!

The Mansfield Rescue by Beth Cornelison

I read this book as a standalone having not read the previous two books in this trilogy. I didn't have any trouble keeping up. The story begins with Amy having an accident as a smoke jumper and breaking her ankle. She travels across the country to stay with her mom while she recuperates. Unfortunately, she returns home to find her former abuser and stepfather out of jail and back with her mother. With nowhere to stay and no friends in town, Amy grabs her classic car out of the garage and leaves. When the car breaks down, Grant stops to help and renews an old connection with Amy from high school. Eventually, he ends up offering her a place to stay and his services as a mechanic. Things rock on for a while, and the two recognize their chemistry but try to ignore it...primarily because of Grant's kids. When Great's daughter is kidnapped by a criminal with a grudge against his family, Amy can't help but be a part of the search for the little girl she has come to care for. Through the ups and downs of the search, Amy and Grant become closer. When Peyton is found and taken again by Amy's stepfather, Amy is the only one who can save her.

I really liked the characters in this story, especially Amy. The suspenseful tension was well balanced with the romantic elements. I also appreciated the cautious way the issue of sexual abuse was handled in the story. I appreciate Net Galley offering a copy of this book for review.

The Heart of the Phoenix by Barbara Bettis

While I admit this novel had a bit of a slow awkward start for me, it picked up quickly, and I became invested in the story and the characters. Evie is a headstrong young woman who has long been infatuated with her older brother's friend. Despite years of separation, she still feels the pull whenever they are together.  Unfortunately for Evie, her brother has cooperated with the future king's order to betroth her to a stranger, and Stephen, the object of her affection sees her as an annoying inconvenience. Evie decides to take her life and future into her own hands by deceiving others into believing her brother had ordered her home to England from visiting her cousin in Normandy. Through a twist of fate, she encounters Stephen at the monastery where she takes shelter on her journey. When mutual needs have the two traveling in a party together toward England, sparks fly, tempers ignite, and chemistry tries to get out of hand. Evie unwittingly becomes a pawn in a play for power and riches which ends up separating her from Stephen. Before the two are reunited, many more obstacles have to be discovered and overcome. Evie and Stephen believe they are up to the challenge, but can they survive what is waiting for them?

Net Galley provided a copy of this book for review. I enjoyed reading an author who was new to me.

The Curse Defiers by Denise Grover Swank

Man, I love this author. She mixes me up and throws my emotions all over the place in both this series and the Rose Gardner series. I am totally addicted. Sometimes I dread where she is going to take me, but I just can't help but read anyway. I have been anxiously awaiting the release of this book and was thrilled when I was offered an advance copy through Net Galley. As soon as I started reading, I was drawn back into the world of the curse. The action begins right off and never lets up. Ellie has to make so many hard choices and take several huge risks in this story. I found myself stressed enough to be whispering, " No! No! No!" at the book several times. Both David and Collin are featured prominently in this episode of the story although I won't spoil things by telling exactly how. I will say Ellie's love for one grows exponentially while her relationship with the other deepens but changes radically. The addition of a new helper/guardian for Ellie in the form of Tsagasi, a not quite fairy, makes things more interesting and adds some amusing dialog along the way. All the usual gods, demons, and a few new ghosts and creatures make appearances with Ahone and Okeus still battling for control of Ellie. This book was all about choosing sides...or choosing not to. I absolutely loved this book. It was the best of the series by far in my opinion. I hate to see this trilogy end, but I am glad the author leaves us by letting us know the story isn't over, but it is only just beginning. Hmmmmm.....I can't wait!!!!