HOT Protector by Lynne Raye Harris

I chose Lynn Raye Harris for my last book of 2015. I wanted to go out with a bang, and I knew she would get the job done with the newest HOT addition. This series is always dependable for sexy action and suspense with an interesting subplot trailing throughout. All the hot HOT guys combined with the newly introduced SEALS and the enigmatic Ian Black (yum!) are just icing on the cake.

Okay, so I'm going to start by saying that I really didn't like this cover to start with. It just came across too harsh to me until I started getting to know Chase in this story. Harsh is exactly how I would describe Chase. He is gruff, crude, foul mouthed, and ill tempered. He is also Sophie's very estranged step brother. When Sophie finds herself in danger with only minutes to decide where to turn, Chase seems like her only option. The only problem is that Chase doesn't believe her and doesn't want anything to do with her...at least until he becomes the victim of an attack targeting her. The two end up on the run together taking help from Chase's teammates as they can. Sophie is a super sweet people pleaser with generous proportions and a curvy figure. She is way too sweet and innocent for Chase, and he more than knows it. It doesn't stop him from lusting after her awesome curves or throwing verbal barbs at her to give himself some distance all while racing to get the evidence they need to make Sophie safe again. Though I couldn't think of a less likely pairing than Chase and Sophie, the longer they're together, the more they end up liking about each other. Their desire ramps up along with the danger, but in the end the two will only survive if Sophie can move beyond her people pleasing and Chase can admit to his softer feelings.

As always, I enjoyed this HOT story. I liked harsh Chase more than I expected to, and I was thrilled to read that Sophie was a curvy voluptuous woman. Her realistic struggles with foods and her self image make her so easy to identify with. The way Chase makes her feel during their intimate moments is what every woman needs to experience. I'm thrilled to make this my last book of the year.

I received an ARC from the publisher for review. Yay!!!

For Cam by Soraya Naomi

Wow! This was one roller coaster of a ride. All the books in this series so far have been emotional, but this one was in a class all its own. This book is the 4th in the Chicago Syndicate series. I've read them all and plan to keep reading them. Be forewarned, this is not your typical guy seems bad but really is good kind of story. These guys really are bad. They are mafia, and they are straight up criminals. Don't worry though, because you won't care. They can also be super softies and overprotective alphas with their women along with unreal sexy. Both the sex and the violence are graphically described, but not in a just for the sake of shocks type of way. It suits the situation and lifestyle. 

As far as this particular book, I totally adore Cam. She is blatantly sexy but also super strong and totally up to keeping Adriano in line. The two of them are like a match and dynamite....sparks and explosions everywhere! I don't want to give away the storyline, so I will just say that these two don't have an easy path to their happy ending. What they do have is the support of the family they have forged for themselves, especially Luca and Fallon ( the focus of books 1 and 2). 

All four of these books, but particularly this one, kept me tied up in knots and unable to stop reading. I'm so glad I found this series, and I hope book five comes out soon.

Lost in Her by Sandra Owens

Ryan was called home from a deployment to find his wife had been murdered. Not only was she dead, but she had betrayed him in the worst way. After that, he was so caught up in his grief and the betrayal that he let life pass him before the next year. Once he finally decides he is ready to get back out and try to let off a little tension at a local bar, his attempt to find an easy hookup is waylaid by a short spunky blonde pilot. Charlie is also looking for a no strings attached night, but chickens out believing Ryan couldn't possibly be interested in her. So begins the chase. Ryan is intrigued by Charlie but can't understand why she keeps running away from him. He is determined to get past her defenses and sets out to win her over with a charming pursuit. The romance and banter between the two of them is quirky and sweet and amusing. Unfortunately, someone is out to sabotage Charlie and her planes...maybe even permanently. Between Ryan's busy schedule training for an upcoming mission out of the country and Charlie's training for an aerobatic show, the two struggle to connect at times. Charlie continues to be in danger, but will Ryan even be in the country when she needs him or will he lose another woman he loves while trying to do his job?

Though this story didn't have as much action as some of the others in this series, the romance was completely endearing, and the characters were so easy to like.

I received an ARC from Net Galley for review.

Taking Fire by Cindy Gerard

Cindy Gerard is one of my favorite military style suspense authors. I adore this series, and I thought this was the best of the series so far. Bobby has been one of my favorites, and he totally need his own book. The story starts off 6 years in the past. I was concerned at first that this would be one of those books that jumps from present to past and back over and over, but that wasn't the case. The beginning of the book gave the background necessary to understand the rest of the story. It shows the love between Talia and Bobby and how everything fell apart through her betrayal. Fast forward to the present, and after 6 years without contact, Talia is forcefully thrust back into Bobby's life. The action hits right off the bat, and the two of them are on the run and out to save the one person who matters most to both of them. They can only succeed if they can trust each other enough to work together. Talia has never stopped loving Bobby, but even though he can't stop the chemistry which still burns between them, he cannot bring himself to let his anger go. Bobby just wants to complete this mission and get away from Talia before he loses control and does something he will regret. The more time he spends with her, the more he wants her and the life he believes they could have had.

It will take their combined resources to succeed and save the one they both love. The rest of the One-Eyed Jacks and Nate Black's team from the Black Ops series step in to help, but will it be enough to save Bobby and Talia, and will the two of them be able to conquer their past in order to save their future?

I love love love this author and always look forward to her new releases. 

I received an ARC from Net Galley for review.

Into the Fury by Kat Martin

This was the first book in the author's new BOSS, Inc. series. It is a spinoff of her popular Brodies of Alaska series. Having read and enjoyed books 1 and 3 in that series, I was happily familiar with a few of the secondary characters who popped up in this story. Nick was a particular favorite.

Nick's cousin, Ethan, is the focus of this book. He works personal protection for his family's security firm and has just been assigned to protect several top lingerie models who have received threatening letters. Shortly after starting the assignment, Ethan notices Valentine Hart. He is immediately attracted to her but has his own reasons for avoiding beautiful women...all women really. Valentine is also attracted to Ethan, but she has goals to accomplish, and a relationship would just get in the way. Though she and Ethan set out to avoid each other, Ethan receives a personal request to keep a closer eye on Valentine since she is a close friend of a family member. Ethan takes family seriously and determines to honor the request. 

As the danger ramps up with the death of one of the other models, Ethan finds himself needing to be ever closer to Valentine. The more time he spends with her, the more he realizes she doesn't fit the preconceived notions he had about her based on her appearance and profession. Both he and Valentine soon lose the ability to resist each other, and things get downright steamy. The connection between them grows quickly, but the killer is not ready to give up. Just his association with Valentine puts Ethan's life in danger too. In the end, they will both have to fight to survive.

I liked the storyline and the familiar characters. I also enjoyed the secondary storyline involving Dirk and Meg. I'm glad they will be featured in book 2, and I look forward to checking it out.

I received and ARC from Net Galley for review.

Running Wilde by Tonya Burrows

Man, I love this series! It just gets better and better. Vaughn, grumpy, abrasive, moody, loyal and persistent Vaughn...so irresistible! I liked him from the start, but I loved him after what he did for his twin in the last book. The backstory for this couple starts there. Vaughn and Lark have a brief but deeply felt affair. When Lark senses herself getting too close and caring too much, she runs away to keep Vaughn safe from the danger he doesn't know is stalking her steps. 

Vaughn wakes up from a serious injury only to find Lark gone and his SEAL trident missing with her. He vows to find her and retrieve his pin no matter what. As soon as he is able, he heads to New Orleans hot on her trail. He doesn't realize he has attracted the attention of the very person she is running from and brought her tormentor right to her door. Vaughn tells himself he only wants to see Lark punished legally for her deceptions, but it doesn't take him long to realize that all he really wants is Lark...forever. Before he can have what he wants, he has to convince her to tell him who hunts her and let him help her end it. 

As is typical for this series, the story was full of super sexy suspense lots of action, and the oh so awesome Wilde brothers. Up next, Greer. I absolutely cannot wait to know what is going on with him. Hurry up book five!

I received an ARC from the publisher through Net Galley for review.

Nemesis by Stefanie Ross

According to what I've read, this is the first English translation by German author Stefanie Ross. I've read a couple of English translated books before without good results. This story, however, was wonderfully translated and easy to read. It did have a significant number of interconnected characters. I didn't love having the cast of characters at the beginning, but the further I got into the story, the more I needed it.

The basic premise of the story involves a group of Navy SEALS working covertly in conjunction with German law enforcement. When the son of one of the German officers is almost kidnapped, a plot to sell custom ordered children to deviants is revealed. Policewoman Sandra Meinke has already been looking into this situation on her own but is pulled into cooperation with the SEALS when an attempt on her life causes her to cross Daniel's path. Daniel and Sandra form a partnership in order to hunt down the kidnappers. In the process, they quickly form a more intimate type of partnership as well.

The characters in the story were really well developed and very easy to like. I would love to get more of the backstory on several of them. Both the contingency of SEALS and several German law enforcement officers act as backup and support for Daniel and Sandra. You get to know them and some of their families throughout the story.

The story kept a fast pace and maintained the suspense until the end. I enjoyed both the friendships described and especially the banter and closeness between Daniel and Sandra.

I received an ARC from Net Galley for review.

Believe by Natalie Gayle

This is the second book in the author's Oni Fighters series. Although I haven't read book one, it was pretty obvious that this story ( for the most part)  parallels book one rather than following sequentially. Believe is in first person and shifts perspectives between Ari and Dane throughout. The story is set in Australia and is written with Australian spellings, grammar, and colloquialisms. Personally, I thought it was a fun departure from what I usually read.

Ari is a single mom with a young son who has Aspergers. She has been the victim of an abusive relationship, and want to get as far away from violence as she can. Dane is an MMA fighter. He loves the sport and doesn't view it as violence, but rather discipline. When he helps Ari and her son out of a bad situation, he quickly wants to know her better. Ari is also attracted to Dane, but she holds herself away because of her zero tolerance for violence stance.

Despite their differences, the couple keeps being drawn together, and the relationship between Dane and Ari's son develops even faster. When the violence against Ari escalates, Dane doesn't exactly offer protection as much as demands he be allowed to give it. Ari has no family, so she gives in and places herself into much closer proximity with Dane. The couple argues and guides back and forth over the violence versus protection issue, but in the end, Dane's training and MMA capabilities may be the only things keeping Ari and her son safe.

I enjoyed both the setting and the story. Honestly, it started out a bit awkwardly for me, but after I got into it, I couldn't wait to see what was going to happen.

I received an ARC from Net Galley for review.

The Fractured Heart by Scarlett Cole

I sooooo love this series! Book one was just amazing, but I liked this one just as well or maybe even better. The characters and environment the author has created are just so easy to connect to. Cujo was a favorite from the start, and who wouldn't love Drea and her never quit attitude? All the other characters from the shop such as Pixie and Lia just add to the atmosphere.

This particular book has Drea and Cujo pitted against each other in planning an engagement party for Harper and Trent from book one. They can't seem to agree on anything, but the fighting certainly seems to getting both of them hot ( and not just under the collar). Cujo avoids relationships like the plague, and Drea barely has time to sleep, much less worry about dating, so the two of them ignore the chemistry. They both want to give their friends the best part ever, so they agree to compromise. Just as things between them start to settle down, situations in their personal lives get totally out of hand.

Drea is already working all day and all night while taking care of her sick mother. When she is caught unaware and threatened closing up late at the cafe by kidnappers who take the only remaining customer, it throws her life into a greater state of chaos. As usual, she tries to handle everything on her own, but when Cujo gets pulled into the danger, he plans to help whether she wants him to or not. His home life is also not without drama. Cujo's long lost mom has returned and brought trouble with her.

This couple goes through so much in this story. It was very emotional with plenty of suspense and such great chemistry that couldn't put it down. I absolutely can't wait to get Pixie's story next. I'm so intrigued about her past!

Net Galley provided a copy for review.

Bride by Chocolate by Alexis Lusonne Montgomery

I had never read this author before, but the title and description were interesting, so I gave it a try. At first, I have to admit it started off slow and I really wasn't really sure about the intelligence of a man who committed himself to such a crazy superstitious plan for finding a wife. As soon as he met BeBe, however, everything changed. She totally threw him for a loop, and I loved it! She was nothing like his type but everything he never knew he needed. He realized it immediately but BeBe only saw herself as a means to an end for him...a distraction. He needed chocolates for his bride finding method, and BeBe needed to find out who is sabotaging her chocolate company. Their mutual needs keep BeBe believing he will be gone as soon as the problems are solved. Sam is determined to keep her forever at any cost, and he won't let anyone hurt her or the company.  Protecting her and solving the sabotage has Sam keeping BeBe with him constantly. Neither of them mind the time together, but BeBe knows her heart will be destroyed when Sam finally leaves. She is not his type. He hasn't followed his bride finding formulawith her. That must mean he doesn't want her in that way, but could he be willing to change things up and take a risk...for her?

I ended up really enjoying the characters of this story, especially Sam. It was a sweet sexy read with a nicely romantic flair.

I received an ARC from Net Galley for review.

Viral Justice by Julie Rowe

I haven't read all the books in this series, but I did read Lethal Game. It gave me some insight into Max, but I really think this story could easily be read as a standalone.

The Biological Response Team is a semi-covert division of the Army which is tasked with detecting, preventing, and reacting to biological warfare. Max is the head of the team, and Alicia is his newly assigned bodyguard and trainer. Alicia typically trains the best of the best, however Max's skills are anything but. His intelligence and humor are top notch, but due to situations from his past, he resists all efforts to train more aggressively in firearms and hand to hand combat. Despite his obstinance, Alicia can't deny her attraction to Max. He has no desire to resist Alicia and is frustrated by her attempts to protect their reputations and jobs.

When Max is needed to investigate an outbreak in a war torn area, Alicia and a small team travel with him. It could be a legitimate virus, or it could be a trap. Either way, they can't afford not to help. The situation turns out to be much more volatile than they expected, and they may end up having to take on a terrorist face to face.

As the couple works together in closer quarters and lethal circumstances, they both realize they have more between them than just lust. Each one is ready to do anything to make sure the other survives.

I am really enjoying this series so far. Thanks to Net Galley for providing a copy for review.

Headed for Trouble by Shiloh Walker

I loved this author's Ash Trilogy, but almost passed this series by because the cover looked more contemporary than suspense. The description didn't really sound super suspenseful either, but when the publisher offered me a copy for review through Net Galley, I couldn't turn it down. It turned out to be everything awesome I expect from this author. Honestly, who could resist a hulking super hot guy with a kind protective side who speaks with a Scottish accent and sports a kilt?

Ian and Neve meet when she walks into the bar he hopes to soon own. Neve has been running for a long time, and deadly danger is close on her heels. She is exhausted but ready to make a stand. She decides what better place than her hometown? Something in her mannerisms sets Ian's protective instincts into high gear. Something in her voice and eyes sets his blood boiling and leads to some outrageous chemistry...at least until he discovers Neve is his best friend's little sister...ouch! Once Neve's full story is revealed though, nothing will keep Ian from protecting her.

The suspense and action in this story keep a great pace, and the chemistry is off the charts. I loved the characters, especially Gideon and Neve's siblings. I'm totally ready for book two!

Known by Kendra Elliot

Okay, so I read the first book in this series, didn't love the style of it, and assumed I wouldn't like this author. I recently was given the opportunity to read her collaborative series, Rogue River, and her Callahan and McLane series. I totally enjoyed them both, so when an opportunity to read this book came my way, I decided to give it a try. I'm so glad I did. The story was suspenseful and action oriented from the start. The chemistry between Chris and Gianna was instant but thankfully not "instalove". Gianna was a spunky independent character and the perfect foil for Chris's ingrained loner tendencies. Both Gianna and Chris were single parents, and Gianna's teenage daughter was caught in the middle of all the danger. I especially liked how Chris made the teen feel secure and safe while remaining very circumspect and honorable with her.

The story in a nutshell starts when Chris finds Gianna stranded and unconscious in a snowstorm being cared for by her panicky daughter. With no other options available, Chris takes them to his cabin nearby to wait out the snow. In the meantime, both Chris and Gianna suspect foul play and prepare for the worst. As they face the danger head-on, the two discover how well matched they are and form an unbreakable connection. With danger stemming from secrets in both their pasts, there is no shortage of suspenseful action and plot twists.

I think I'm going to have to go back and check out the books I've missed in this series. I'm glad Net Galley offered me a copy of this book for review!

The Girls She Left Behind by Sarah Graves

This is the second book in the Lizzie Snow series. I didn't realize that when I started reading, but I had no trouble reading it as a standalone. I will start by saying if you are looking for traditional romantic suspense, this is not it. This story is basically a police procedural with slight romantic elements. Honestly, it started off a bit slow for me, and the format was a bit of an adjustment too. Parts of the story were first person from the perspective of the "she" from the title ( You will have to read the story to find out if "she" turns out to be villain or hero.) The rest of the book is third person. I actually read the first twenty-five percent or so then left it and read two other books before coming back to it. Thankfully, the story picked up, and I ended up staying up past 2:00am to finish it.

Lizzie is a deputy in a very small town. She is relatively new to the area and appears to have been lured there by Dylan, a state policeman she unwittingly had an illicit affair with years prior. He lied to her about his marital status in the past, and I'm pretty convinced he's lying to her now in order to keep her near him (Time will tell.). Trey, a nice local vet ( who apparently lacks Dylan's physical attractiveness) is also interested in Lizzie, but keeps getting blown off in favor of Dylan and the case. In the event that you're wondering, I'm highly pro-Trey.

Basically, a young girl is missing, and a former collector and captor of young girls has escaped from his confinement at a criminal psychiatric facility. Add some out of control wildfires, possibly vengeful former victims, and a deceitful mother to the mix, and you have a good idea of the complicated plot of this story. I personally never could have predicted the way this book ended. It definitely had a nicely surprising twist to it ( which is how I ended up still reading at 2:00am).

The story had a good creepiness vibe to it without being too terribly gory, and though it was a bit of a departure from my usual norm in genres, I will probably check out the next book.

I received an ARC from Net Galley for review.

Fighting Dirty by Lori Foster

Finally, Armie and Merissa get their own story! I have read all the books in this series so far, and outrageous Armie has been one of my favorite characters. He was always so funny, but very thoughtful and protective when the situation called for it...except with Merissa. He has been attracted to her for years, but avoids her like the plague frequently hurting her feelings in the process.A huge secret in his past makes Armie feel unworthy of Merissa and unwilling to risk losing his best friend, Cannon, in order to date his little sister, so he keeps his distance. Everything changes, however, when Armie walks into a robbery in the bank Merissa manages and an attack on her that feels personal for some reason. Armie clicks into protective mode, and Merissa decides to take bold steps to stay with him even though she believes the attack was random. As seemingly unrelated incidents begin to plague Merissa, threats to reveal Armie's secrets put his new SBC career in jeopardy and make him renew his efforts to distance himself from Merissa even as he tries to ensure her safety. In the end, the awesome friendships Merissa and Armie cherish are their best assets in discovering who is trying to destroy them.

I really enjoy this series, and this book has overtaken Stack's story as my favorite. MMA is honestly not a scene that interests me, but the author has created amazingly flawed but honorable characters who draw the reader in. The stories have great chemistry, lots of emotion, and a bit of suspense to keep things interesting. ( This book had even more suspense than usual...Yay!!!) I'm ready for the next book, and I hope it will be Leese's story.

I received an ARC from Net Galley for review.

Endgame by Tess Diamond

Love!Love!Love! Seriously, this book made me so happy! I read extremely fast, so at the pace of a novel a day, I frequently get bored with what I'm reading or I can very easily figure out the plot but keep reading because I like the characters. It is a rare treat when a book has me nervous. In this story, between the unpredictability of Mancuso, the conniving underhandedness of the newly arrived Mr. Black, and the downright bullheadedness Maggie displayed, I was completely on edge in the best of ways stressing out about what on earth would happen next.

This book picks up right after the failed attempt to rescue Kayla at the end of book two. The situation has gone from bad to worse with Mancuso adding not only a second hostage but also a bomb to the mix. Maggie's prior warnings are now vindicated, but she is only concerned with saving Kayla and now Paul as well. Maggie and Jake are still working together and covering each other's backs. I will interrupt myself here to say, as I have in reviews of the previous books, that Jake and Maggie are the perfect fit as a couple. There is no alpha in this relationship, just two strong people willing to risk it all for each other and anyone else who needs them. That said, back to the synopsis...

Just when I thought things were getting stressful, but at least a plan was taking shape, all manner of trouble breaks loose. A comment is made referencing the events of Maggie's childhood, Mr. Black arrives to stick his nose (and other assorted body parts) where it doesn't belong and foul up the rescue operation, and members of the team are attacked. At this point, I didn't have a clue what might happen next. When Maggie did finally act, I was shocked by what she did. I don't want to say too much more, because it would ruin the twists and turns. This story does get a real ending, although threads of what might be on the horizon for Maggie are laced thought the book.

I can't say enough about the quality of the writing and my enjoyment of the story. It was a great way to wrap up the kidnapping situation and the nagging employment issues. The series has been wonderful so far.

Thanks so very much to the author who gifted me a copy of this book for review.

On His Watch by Katie Ruggle

This story is a novella prequel to a series which will be releasing pretty close together in 2016. I had never read this author before nor had I read about ice rescue divers. I thought the story was interesting and had some suspenseful moments. The couple already had a history, so the relationship developed fairly quickly over some extreme circumstances. Basically, as one child falls through the ice on a school field trip and is being rescued, two others disappear. Artemis, their teacher, is desperate to find them. She teams up with her former lover and rescue diver, Derek, to search the frozen who's for the missing girls. As the temperatures drop, Derek is determined to heat things up between himself and Artie.

The story is pretty short but introduces some interesting characters which will be featured in the upcoming series. It has a definite conclusion, but also leaves a few mysterious threads out there to trail into the other stories. The short preview of the next book at the end was pretty intriguing.

I received an ARC for review from Net Galley.

Edge of Night by Jill Sorenson

I wasn't familiar with this author as I started this book, and I really didn't expect it to be very realistic. Overall, I was kind of iffy on my prospects of liking it. Having worked with teens in gangs as a substance abuse counselor in a boot camp type program, I have a decent amount of knowledge about that lifestyle. Surprisingly, I thought the author's description was pretty realistic. She didn't sugarcoat things or make her characters perfect. They were flawed in so many ways which made them identifiable and real.

The story really was two stories in one, April and Noah, and Eric and Meghan. Both couples come across young with the latter couple being around nineteen. Unfortunately, not everyone gets a happy ending in this book. I liked that about it. Don't get me wrong, I'm a happy ending all the way sort of gal, but it would have been completely unrealistic for this story and these characters. I'm now going to have to search around and see if the author wrote a follow up for my favorite characters.

I received an ARC from Net Galley for review.

Gone Black by Linda Ladd

Oh my word!!!! This blew me out of the water. After reading the description, I honestly delayed reading it for a bit. I am completely addicted to this series, so there was no way I was skipping this one, but I just couldn't stand the idea of Claire thinking Black was dead. Once I finally made myself start reading, however, I couldn't put it down...literally. It was definitely not for the faint of heart. Though this tends to be a bit of a dark series anyway, this installment is much more so. I don't want to spoil the story by giving much description, so I will skip giving a synopsis. If you are a fan of the series, you know that Black's most fervent wish is to marry Claire. She put it off before, but has finally given in and planned Black's dream ceremony. Everything is perfect, but we all know that never lasts in Claire's world. This story is the hardest situation Claire has ever had to face. Everything rides on her and the help of a small abused little boy. Black's life and sanity depend on them. Claire has some help on the outside from Holliday, Booker, and Novak, but it's anyone's guess whether they will arrive in time.

This was the best book in the series so far. It is Claire's turn to pull out all the stops to save Black. She really shows what she is made of. Also, can I just say how much I love Novak! I liked him in the previous book, but now I love him. His part in the ending was spectacular!


Thankfully, I received an ARC from Net Galley for review. :-)

Dead by Midnight by Pamela Clare

So many couples, so much danger, so many reasons to check out this book.  In one part of the hotel, the newspaper's I-Team (investigative team) it's involved in their company Christmas party. In another area, the Lt. Governor and the Secretary of State are attending the British Consulate General's Christmas party. Unfortunately, a third group is spread throughout the hotel disguised as staff...Columbian terrorists. Just as the parties are getting started, Holly Andris notices a gun sticking out from underneath a staff cart. She manages to get a warning text out and pull the fire alarm before being taken down by a bullet. Her actions save the many people who are able to make it outside, but the terrorists still manage to take hundreds of hostages including most of Holly's closest friends. Marc Hunter manages to avoid capture even though his wife, Sophie, is among the hostages. He begins to wage his own small war trying too take the rooftop off the hotel. Nick, Holly's husband, hears she is down, but he is stuck on the outside. He is an agent with Cobra, a private security firm. He and his co-workers end up coordinating with SWAT and even the FBI's HRT team (courtesy of author Kaylea Cross) to mount a rescue.

This book starts off with mega doses of super hot chemistry as each couple enjoys their date night away from their children and gets ready for their respective parties. It then morphs into non-stop action as both those on the inside and those on the outside work to find a way to stop the terrorists before their loved ones are harmed.

Kaylea Cross is one of my favorite authors. I love her HRT series, and choose to read this book for that reason. I didn't remember having read any of the I-Team books until after I started reading and recognized a couple characters. I enjoyed this story and the I-Team couples enough that I'm now going to have to go back and read the books I missed.  The Christmas time setting of the story was nice and thankfully not overdone.

I received an ARC from Net Galley for review.

Game of Lies by Tess Diamond

I am loving this series! Even though you know who the kidnapper is (if you read book one), all is not what it seems. I really did not expect as many twists and turns as I encountered in this story. Maggie and Jake are still working with the FBI to find Senator Thebes's kidnapped daughter before her insulin dependence puts her life at risk. Not only does Maggie continue to get hassled by her former colleagues, they take it to a whole other level and attempt to undermine her despite possibly disastrous consequences. Even puppy love Paul can't be relied on. Jake is the only person Maggie can count on to back whatever actions she takes. I like that Jake trusts her to be competent at her job and doesn't hover over her waiting for her to need rescuing. He goes where she sends him and even bends a few rules along the way.

As for the chemistry between Maggie and Jake, I love where that went. Finally! The relationship between these two just makes me happy. They seem to fit like two pieces of the same puzzle. I literally can't wait to see what happens next. As with book one, book two ends on a cliffhanger. Thankfully the next book will be out soon. I actually like cliffhangers when they are not too extreme and the author plans ahead enough to release the sequels pretty quickly. I love that I have found a talented new independent author to add to my favorites list.

I was thrilled to receive an ARC from the author for review!

Secrets and Seduction by Sahara Roberts

Andres and Monica are both stuck in a bad situation. In a small town in Mexico, a powerful drug cartel has taken over. The town doctor has been coerced into becoming the private physician for the cartel's leader. He has asked Monica to step in and take over his practice for a while. In this old-fashioned town, she finds herself an anomaly, and struggles at times with the confines of the community's strict rules. Andres is working as a horse trainer on the farm that has been his family for generations. The cartel has taken it, and he will do anything to get it back. Meanwhile, a dangerous shadow is taking out cartel members one by one. The only problem with that is that innocent people are hurt in the process. Andres has flirted with Monica since she first arrived in the small town, but never anything too serious. That changes, the more time he spends with her and gets to know her. Unbeknownst to each other, the two are both playing a dangerous game, and could be killed at any time. Unfortunately, neither one trust the other enough to spill their secrets. It doesn't stop them from sharing a bed, however.

The couple had good chemistry, and I liked the characters. I did find myself getting confused at times with all of the many secondary characters and their relationships, but it didn't affect my enjoyment of the main story.

I received an ARC from the publisher through Net Galley for review.

Killer Curves by Naima Simone

I loved this story! It was so nice to read about a woman who was actually an average size ( that's not a size 2 by the way). Sloane has struggled with her size all her life, not because she is fat, but because she is average in a world where average is unacceptable. I completely identified with her and her struggles with all the criticism disguised as compliments ("You have such a pretty face," with the implied...if only you'd lose weight.). Thankfully, there are men out there who love curves. (I certainly found one.) Ciaran is instantly attracted to Sloane when he notices her at their mutual friends' engagement party. She doubts his sincerity since her ex had her convinced she was worthless. She runs like a scared rabbit, but after the latest in a string of malicious incidents is a break in and attack, Sloane turns to her friend's security firm. Surprisingly, Ciaran is a partner there. He is not about to let anyone else protect Sloane, and ends up pretending to be her love interest at her parents' anniversary weekend. Rather than the violence ceasing when they leave town, it increases. Ciaran had his hands full trying to keep Sloane safe and keep his hands off her.

In the meantime, Sloane works toward undoing the damage a lifetime of criticism has wreaked on her self image. She begins to stand up for herself even as she begins to give in to Ciaran. Both of them have issues which keep them over thinking their chemistry. They just need to get themselves on the same page before a killer rips them apart.

There were so many sweet and funny moments in this story. I adored the characters and now need to go back and read book one.

I received an ARC from the publisher through Net Galley for review.

Protecting His Assets by J.K. Coi

I chose this book because I like the publisher. Although I usually read their Ignite titles, I liked the cover for this one. I'm glad I gave it a try, because it turned out really well. I like the characters , and the story had a nice pace.

Steve is a very driven business owner. In the past, his family had been very prestigious, but his father's poor business decisions left them in ruin. Steve is determined to do everything he can to bring his family back into a position of power. On the other hand, April has been hurt by power. Her former boyfriend was an up and coming figure in the world of power, and she thought she was included in his circle of friends. At least she thought she was, until she overheard him talk about slumming it with her to his buddies. She decided then and there to never date anyone else in that circle. In fact, at the beginning she has more disdain for Steve then she does chemistry. Although Steve is attracted to her from the beginning, he makes comments about her clothing which lead her to believe he is no different than her ex. Since April has a job to do, protecting Steve, she is not worried at all about the lack of chemistry. Unfortunately, Steve is taking everything as a joke and makes her job much harder than it has to be. His thinly veiled innuendos do not endear him to April at first either. The more time the couple spends together, the more they end up genuinely liking each other. The perceived class differences continue to bother April, although Steve could care less. Just as the relationship is heating up, so do issues with the stalker. April is determined to protect Steve at all cost, but Steve is not sure how he should handle wanting to protect his own bodyguard.

I enjoyed this story and will likely check out more books by this author in the future.

I received an ARC from Net Galley for review.

Tricky Twenty-Two by Janet Evanovich

Okay, so we all know Janet Evanovich is a phenomenal writer. No arguments here, but I'm definitely disappointed with this book. I read this series for the chemistry and the laughs. Though there were a few poignant moments with both Ranger and Morelli, overall it just was lacking. As for laughs, again there were a few amusing moments, but nothing that made me laugh out loud like the giraffe in the last book. Lula is just not so funny to me anymore, because she always reads exactly the same. I found myself wishing Lula would just go home and stay there so I could get to the new parts of the story. I really had myself hyped up to laugh my head off, but it didn't deliver. The whopping $13.99 price for the digital edition makes this even more disappointing. I rarely pay even half that much for other popular authors. So, I say drop the prices and shake these characters up a bit.

Kill Without Mercy by Alexandra Ivy

This book is the first in a new series. It was also my first experience with this author. Honestly, I thought the cover was a bit melodramatic looking and almost didn't give it a try. That would have been a pity because I truly loved this story.

Rafe is one of five former soldiers who connected and became family through a shared horrific experience. The five of them have started a security business together at Rafe's urging. Just as things are getting off the ground, Rafe has to leave town to take care of his estranged grandfather's estate.

In another part of the country, Annie begins to have visions, visions she hasn't experienced since she was a child and her father wad discovered to be a serial killer. Annie feels she has no choice but to return to the scene of the crimes to find out whether her visions are real.

In a small town cafe, Rafe and Annie meet when he rescues her from problems related to being recognized as a serial killer's daughter. Annie sticks in his thoughts, so Rafe asks one of his buddies to investigate her history. When women begin vanishing just like they did when she was a child, Annie has no one to turn to for help but Rafe. Luckily, he has all the help she needs. Between him and his friends, they uncover some information that rocks Annie's foundation and causes her to rethink everything she thinks she knows. Through it all, Rafe is a rock, and his friends circle the wagons around Annie. In the end though, Annie will have to protect herself.

I absolutely loved the characters this author created. They had me hooked right off the bat. The very different personalities of the guys made them an interesting and effective team, not to mention attractive in their own way. I really can't wait to get more of these guys. Alexandra Ivy is now on my favorite author list!

Hunted by Marissa Garner

Amber is a woman on the run with danger only a couple of steps behind.  Ben is an FBI agent in the middle of a dangerous investigation. Neither one of them is interested in a serious relationship, but the close proximity of living in the same apartment complex briefly throws them together. They have an immediate chemistry, but it is more of a slow burn that develops over the course of several somewhat casual "dates".  Something about Amber draws Ben and makes him consider taking things to a more serious level, but Amber knows she will just have to run again and she can't risk losing her heart to Ben. She keeps him at arms length and tries to take care of everything herself.  Only when suspicious things begin happening at her workplace, does Amber start to coincide in Ben. Surprisingly, they find that Amber's problems at work are actually entwined with Ben's investigation. Just as things heat up, the stalker Amber has been running from closes in. Torn between doing his job and protecting Amber, Ben can't help but wonder if he is risking the only woman destined to be his.

This was my first experience with this author, but it won't be my last. I really enjoyed the story and the well written characters. Ben was especially endearing and sexy.

I received an ARC from Net Galley for review.

Now You See Her by Dale Mayer

I've read every book in this series, and there hasn't been a single one I disliked. I couldn't wait to get my hot little hands on this one, so I was thrilled when I received an ARC from Net Galley.

Tia has very rare powers that some would kill to obtain. She has spent most of her life institutionalized and experimented on by a sadistic scientist seeking ways to use her skills. She finally escaped and started to make a life for herself, but a visit to an old friend puts her back on an old enemy's radar. She awakens in a hospital following an attack to discover she has been unconscious for weeks and is being guarded by a sexy man who is totally freaked out by her powers at first.

Dean has some experience with psychics since Stefan helped save his young son, but Tia's powers are in a whole other realm. Despite his initial discomfort though, Dean comes to care about Tia and commits himself to protecting her. He soon discovers a powerful energy connection between himself and Tia. The connection allows him to help her heal, but it could also kill one of them in the end...if her enemies don't find them first.

I really loved this story and the characters. It kept the suspense constant throughout and had plenty of action and chemistry. I also enjoyed catching up with favorites like Maddy and Stefan. In my opinion, this is one of the best paranormal series out there.

Seized by Elizabeth Heiter

This is book three in The Profiler series, and it finds Evelyn unusually listless and adrift. After solving the one case her entire life revolved around, the kidnapping and murder of her best friend, in book two, she now finds herself at a loss and without a clear purpose. Even Evelyn's relationship with Kyle is suffering. After finally giving in and accepting his vacation invitation and enjoying just being with him, she now seems to be pulling away.

As a form of punishment for refusing to follow orders in book two, Evelyn is being sent on pesky mundane assignments. Following one of these in Montana, Evelyn is approached by a fellow agent and asked to take a brief ride along to check out and profile a survivalist cult holed up in the mountains. Evelyn goes even though it is against her better judgement but soon wishes she hadn't when she and the other agent are taken hostage by the group. She is quickly isolated and used for leverage when the FBI surrounds the compound. Kyle's HRT team is part of the force waiting for an opportunity to breach the walls and get Evelyn and the other agent out.

Evelyn is held captive for days, and even after her rescue, she has no time to reconnect with Kyle because one of her primary captors is dead and one escaped. The manhunt is on, and the stakes are high since Evelyn suspects the escapee has a series of terrorist attacks planned. Despite her lingering doubts about her job, Evelyn throws herself one hundred percent into the chase. In the meantime, Kyle is injured, and Evelyn has to choose between him and her job. She has no idea what she wants, and there is no way to know if she will decide before the terrorist catches up with her.

Like the first two books, this story kept up a great pace and a suspenseful atmosphere. It was much less about Evelyn and Kyle than the previous book and more about Evelyn's conflicts with her job. I enjoyed it and can't wait to see what comes next for these characters.

I received an ARC from Net Galley for review.

Heart Taker by Sasha Devlin

I was hooked into this story from the very beginning. Having never read this author, I wasn't sure what to expect, but it certainly got right into the heart of the story from page one where Aya is experiencing a murder through the eyes and psyche of the killer...the killer she believes to be herself.The police, especially Will who is assigned to her case, aren't so sure. After nights of refusing to sleep for fear that sleep would bring on another killing, Aya is a wreck when she arrives at the police station. Her ravaged appearance doesn't keep Will from being instantly attracted to her. The sexual overtones of Aya's killing visions have her in a sense of heightened awareness that she doesn't want but can't change. Will kicks her senses into overdrive. Despite the attraction, Will has no choice but to treat Aya as the killer she claims to be until he can prove otherwise. Surprisingly, the police's staff doctor has some pat experience with Aya and her family. He believes her visions may simply be a psychic type link to the killer, and her has a very unorthodox theory about how to prove it. If Aya is a killer, Will will be placing himself at risk, if she is innocent, he may be making her the next target.

This was a creepy but super sexy story. Parts of it were definitely outside of the realm of what could happen in regard to police procedure and tactics, but it's not like we read paranormal suspense for the reality of it anyway, right? I liked that it never slowed down, and it kept my attention throughout.

I received an ARC from Net Galley for review.

Dangerous Deception by Savannah Stuart

Katie Reus writing as Savannah Stuart definitely has a much sexier more erotic edge. I really enjoy her Red Stone Security series, but this was my first time reading under this pseudonym. I liked the characters and enjoyed the story. Sage and Trent hooked up as basically strangers staying in the same bed and breakfast. Their lust burned bright and hot until Sage snuck out and disappeared.

Over a year later, the two of them are unexpectedly reunited. Trent can't believe he has finally found her. Sage is more worried than excited. Her life was dangerous when she met him, but recently, the threats have picked up. Sage would do anything to make sure Trent isn't involved and is protected. Trent, however, is not giving up Sage for any reason. He is also not above seducing her to get his way. Their connection picks up right where it left off, and they are hot and heavy pretty quick. Unfortunately, Sage's stalker only picks up the harassment once their relationship becomes known. Both Sage and Trent are determined to protect the other, and neither of them are backing down until it's all over.

I enjoyed the characters and the suspense. It was a great little afternoon escape. I received an ARC from Net Galley for review.

David by Lindsay Cross

First of all, let me say what a striking cover this is! It is one of the best covers I've seen in a while. As for the story, it is a bit of a departure from the team this series has focused on. David is undercover DEA but has some common ties to Hunter and the guys from books 1-3. This could definitely be read as a standalone though if you haven't read the other books.

One main difference in this story, other than the length, is that it focuses on a married couple with children. Over the last few years, they have drifted apart as his job has increasingly monopolized David's time and Lori has gotten caught up in her resentment of it. Both of them have begun to notice the problems but don't know how to fix them. As is typical, they have been neglecting the intimate aspects of their marriage. David takes some time off work to remind Lori how he feels about her and how much he desires her. The problems occur when his work unexpectedly bleeds into his home and Lori's life could be the cost.

I thought this was a very realistic representation of how couples can get after years of complacency. Their way of reconnecting was spicy and fun. I will be looking forward to the next offshoot novella. The preview was interesting.

Reckless River by Lindsay Cross

Having read and loved the first two books in this series, I didn't hesitate to jump when the author offered an ARC for this story. I'll start by saying that this book is very different from its predecessors. It focuses on the brothers, Jared and Hoyt who were raised mountain backwoods by a family of criminals. Jared is finally ready to try to take out his aunt's criminal operation even though he knows she and her people will kill him and Hoyt on sight. What he doesn't count on is encountering the one person worth saving in the whole mountain community, a girl who saved him first long ago, Sparrow. Sparrow feels trapped by her lack of education and money. She longs for a different life, and Jared convinces her to risk her life and escape with him. Unfortunately, circumstances cause him to mistrust her, and he then turns on Sparrow. Her existence becomes less desirable than what she already had. I have to say that Jared made made furious several times over his treatment of Sparrow. I wanted her to cut him off, but her kind nature and lack of worldview showed, and she was too quickly forgiving. In the end, Jared does get a big wake up call, and I was happy about that. I definitely like them as a couple because she gives his life the positive softer aspects it desperately lacks, and she has the forgiving spirit necessary for dealing with his quick temper.

Now, as for Hoyt, he got a lot of page time in this story too, and his association (not quite a relationship yet) with Hayden progresses as well. Unfortunately, a lot happens to change Hoyt from his usual easygoing self. Overall, this story was emotionally tougher than the others in my opinion. I am definitely ready to read more about Hoyt. He needs a happily ever after more than anyone.

Out of the Shadows by Tiffany Snow

This is the third book in the Tangled Ivy trilogy, and it definitely should not be read as a standalone. So much has happened to Ivy through the course of this series. She starts out a small town girl working in a bank and ends up completely entangled in international espionage. At the end of the previous book, Ivy had been taken into custody. This book picks up right where the last one left off. Ivy is secluded and has no idea whether Devon will be able to find her. She knows the vaccine in her blood is what everyone wants but has no idea how long it will keep her safe. Both Ivy and Devon know they will never be able to be happy and safe together until they deal with their primary threat, Vega.  Through the course of this story, the relationship between Ivy and Devon continues to grow and strengthen even while they are hit from all sides with long kept secrets and potentially lethal danger.

I enjoyed all the little surprises, so I won't spoil them by revealing too much in my review. The ending wrapped things up nicely and left me happy.

I received an ARC from Net Galley for review.

She Can Kill by Melinda Leigh

Sarah and Cristan have more problems than any two people should. Sarah has recently divorced her physically abusive ex but is having to comply with his court ordered visits with their daughters. He uses the visits as a means to still try to insert his control over her life. His actions and the resultant court visits have placed Sarah's much needed job in jeopardy.

Cristan isn't who he appears. Even his name it's fake. What isn't fake is his love for his daughter and the lengths he would go to in order to keep her safe from her mother's family and their enemies. He also has real feelings for Sarah but can't give himself permission to act on them. He doesn't want to put her in danger, but what he doesn't realize is that danger has already found her.

When it becomes obvious that Sarah's ex has lost his grip on sanity and Cristan's enemies have finally caught up to him, the two have to work together to protect not only their children, but also each other. Thankfully, they both have friends willing to step up and help, because they need all the help they can get.

This was a great story with a nicely convoluted plot and a few surprise twists. I really enjoyed it.

I received an ARC from Net Galley for review.

Dangerous Games by Tess Diamond

I was completely unfamiliar with Tess Diamond when I was offered an ARC for review, but the book description sounded interesting enough for me to give it a try. I actually had already downloaded another book to read first, but once I read the first couple of paragraphs in Dangerous Games, I was intrigued enough to keep reading.

The story begins when Maggie Kincaid is recruited to help with the investigation into the kidnapping of a senator's teenage daughter. Maggie was formerly with the FBI but had wit a couple of years previously due to a negotiation that went wrong. She blamed herself, and after surviving a kidnapping as a child, she couldn't deal with her failure to bring a victim home. She never wanted to be involved in that type of situation again, but with medical issues making recovering the victim even more urgent, she wasn't able to refuse.

Despite facing ridicule from former co-workers, stonewalling by the victim's father, and the cocky interference of Jake O'Connor, Maggie doggedly pursues answers. Without giving too much away, I will just say that I enjoyed the chemistry between Jake and Maggie, especially when he was trying to get a rise out of her. The story was well written and gave just enough details to draw you into the story but also keep you guessing. It did end with a pretty decent cliffhanger, but my understanding is that book two will follow close behind this one. I will definitely be keeping an eye out for it!

Shattered by Cynthia Eden

I'm absolutely addicted to this series! This is the third book, and it sucked me in just as quickly as the first two. Super sexy Jax caught my attention in the last book. I loved the way he nicknamed Sarah Pretty Sarah. Sarah had also pulled my heartstrings from the beginning, so her and Jax together seemed like a perfect fit to me.

Jax asks the LOST team for help unraveling the details of his past, but before they can even start working on his case, a young woman with ties to Sarah's past goes missing. LOST has to divert their resources toward locating her. From the beginning, it becomes obvious that Sarah could be in danger. Jax doesn't intend to leave her unprotected for even a minute. He inserts himself into the search as a way to watch over her, but as the case progresses, a killer begins taunting them. Not only does he want Sarah, but he has plans for Jax too.

This story had so much chemistry. This couple was completely breathtaking the way their darkness complemented each other. I tend to prefer my suspense with the mystery and action spread throughout the story rather than just concentrated at the end, and this fit that formula perfectly There were also a couple of plot turns which caught me by surprise in the best way. I love this author and this series!

Hold Me Close by Rosalind James

This is the second book in the Paradise, Idaho series. Though I highly recommend reading book one ( I loved it!), I think this could easily be read as a standalone.  So far, the series has focused on two brothers from a very small town where everyone knows everyone else and neighbors still help each other. Luke is the younger brother and principle of the local high school. Kayla is a single mom with a nine year old son. She has recently escaped an abusive relationship and returned to Paradise, a town where she lived briefly as a child.
Kayla literally has nothing but is determined to take care of herself and her son by herself and never be obligated to anyone again, but Luke is a born fixer, and as soon as her sees his new neighbor, he realizes she needs help. He sets out to do as much as Kayla will let him get away with while Kayla throws up roadblocks at every turn. Despite her standoffish behavior, Luke finds himself more and more attracted to Kayla. He also seems to be growing on her and her son as well.   As trust builds and Kayla reveals bits and pieces of her past experiences, Luke realizes the situation is more dangerous than he thought. He promises to stop at nothing to keep the little family safe even if they can never be his.

I love this series and the quirky way it was written. Luke is very easy going and amusing. It would be hard not to like the story. I can't wait for more Paradise.

I received an ARC from Net Galley for review.

Dead in Her Tracks by Kendra Elliot

This is book two in the collaborative novella series, Rogue Winter.  The events in this book take place only days after book one. While book one focused on Carly, book two focuses on sister, Stevie. Stevie and Zane have been seeing each other for months. Zane wants to make things more permanent but knows Stevie is a slow mover. The couple tries to keep a professional distance at work, but with multiple murders, all they do is work. It leaves very little time for them to connect with each other. Solving their most recent case seems like the only way they will ever have any peace. With their only suspect dead, the case drags on and suspects dwindle. Unfortunately, the killer has set his sights on his next victim, and Stevie fits his pattern.

I like this collaboration between Melinda Leigh and Kendra Elliot. They definitely need to be read in order with the Rogue River series first, but following the order helps you understand the relationships and grow to love the little town of Solitude.

I received an ARC from Net Galley for review.

Tracks of Her Tears by Melinda Leigh

This is the first in a new Rogue Winter series of novellas set in Solitude. The story features Carly and Seth from the Rogue River series plus the rest of Carly's extended family. The timing of the story was a few days before Christmas. I enjoyed the holiday setting and the fact that the story wasn't overdone commercially Christmas.

At the beginning of this story, Seth is called to the scene of a murder. When he arrives, he recognizes the victim as the girlfriend of Carly's brother, Bruce. The problem is that Bruce is missing. The police have to determine whether he is the perpetrator of the crime or just another victim. In the meantime, someone has to care for the victim's toddler. Seth calls Carly to help out, but everywhere the toddler goes, trouble follows. Seth is ready to do anything to protect his family and the little girl. He promised his wife he would spend more time with family and less time on the job, but this case wasn't one that could wait, especially with Christmas so near and Bruce's safety in question. He feels torn, but in the end he has no choice. The killer is targeting his family, and he can't ignore it.

I enjoyed the Rogue River books, and this Rouge Winter series is starting out with a good suspense plot and plenty of romance.

I received an ARC from Net Galley.

No Good Deed by Allison Brennan

This was the twenty seventh book I've read by Allison Brennan, so I guess you could say I'm a huge fan. This particular series is absolutely my favorite. Just as a note, this is definitely not a standalone. It is book ten in the series, and each book builds on the previous one. Actually, in my opinion, you get the best reading experience by first reading the Evil trilogy and then the FBI trilogy. These two series help familiarize you with the Kincaid and Rogan families. They also take you through everything that happens to Lucy Kincaid, the events that shape who she is. Having this background information just makes the Lucy series ten times better.

This story has Lucy and Sean tracking prison escapee Nicole Rollins, a murderer they helped apprehend in the previous book. Lucy and Sean are FINALLY engaged ( yes, I've been waiting for that for a long time), but there is no time to celebrate. DEA and FBI agents are being murdered, and all hands are on deck working around the clock to recapture Rollins. Sean and Lucy are pulled in different directions, but try to connect as much as possible. Unfortunately, things only get worse when Kane, Sean's brother, disappears in Mexico. Sean knows he has to go find Kane, but hates to leave knowing Lucy is likely a target for Rollin's violence. He enlists the help of a trusted colleague to watch over Lucy and sets out for Mexico.

Lucy is working non-stop. Information is leaking from someone within the joint task force. The leak forces Lucy to question everyone she knows and works with. No one is above suspicion other than a couple of close friends. Lucy's brother, Jack, also arrives in town to help out.

Personally, this was my favorite Lucy story to date. The action and suspense were continuous, the depth of the relationship between Lucy and Sean is beautifully depicted, and Jack and Kane ( two of my favorites) are front and center for much of the story.  I truly can't wait for Kane and Siobhan to get their own story.  I'm completely addicted to the Kincaids and the Rogans.

I received an ARC for review from Net Galley.

Chance of a Lifetime by Marissa Clarke

I found this book on Net Galley and just had to request it after reading the description, despite not having read the first two books in the series (or anything else by this author). I was very excited when I was given a copy for review. It certainly worked well as a standalone, but I loved the brothers so much that I've already put the first two books in my wish list.

Chance is the youngest brother in his family. Compared to them, he is more of a free spirit though also less interested in the limelight. For practically all of his life, Chance has been in love with his friend's little sister. Unfortunately, there is nothing worse than falling in love with your friend's sister, unless of course said sister is blind and smothered by over protection.

Gen has always loved Chance too, but he left her when she needed him the most. She hasn't seen him in ten years, and she doesn't know it's him when she decides to cross off bucket list item number one and kiss a stranger. Things go up and downhill from there. Gen wants to finish her bucket list, but she needs a bit of assistance. Her best friend is unavailable, so despite her current aversion to Chance, she decides to use him. She doesn't question whether or not he can keep her physically safe, but will Chance destroy what's left of her heart in the process?

Want by Emma Rider

I love a good MMA fighter story. The awesome cover was what attracted me to the story at first. Thankfully, the story lived up to the cover. It stays off with Jade. She has made some poor decisions in the past resulting in a loser ex and some undeserved prison time. As a result, her job prospects are non-existent, and her legal and other bills are pulling up. She borrows some money from a friend and uses her education in psychology tho open her own business...a cuddling service. No, you didn't hear me wrong. I did say a cuddling service, affection for those who lack it in their daily lives. No sex allowed. Yes, I agree, it's a strange notion, but just go with it.

Ryland is a famous MMA fighter and a client of Jade's. He wants her ask to himself and offers her an exclusive contract. Jade resists at first, but quickly changes her mind after a run in with a dangerous motorcycle club leaves her in need of money and a place to hide. Ryland senses something is wrong but let's her keep her secrets...for a while. The more time the two spend together, the more Jade risks breaking her rules and falling for Ryland. She also fears how he will react when he knows all her secrets. She would give everything to protect him from the fallout of her life, and end the end, she may very well have to.

I love, love, love this story. Ryland was super sexy with his alpha tendencies, gentle touches, and MMA bedroom moves. Jade was everything Ryland needed. She was a cuddler and a talker, and Ryland was a man of action with little time to even speak compete sentences. They amused me and made me smile. The suspenseful subplots also kept things moving quickly and the excitement building. It was a great read.

I received an ARC from Net Galley.

Designed for Murder by Avery Flynn

I was a bit unsure whether I would be able to get into this story since it was set in the world of LARPing. I was familiar with the term, but that was about the extent of my knowledge. The only reason I even have it a try was because I've never read a book published through Entangled Ignite that I didn't like. I've got to admit, I loved this one too. Mika was a great character. She was totally into LARPing, but she want just some geek stuck in a fantasy. She had spunk and didn't back down for anyone. Carlos, on the other hand, thought he was just as tough but had let himself conform to an image of who he thought he needed to be. Mika challenged all Carlos thought he was. Working as an investigator for Maltese Security on her case (which involved stolen LARP costumes) brought him face to face with the world he used to enjoy. Working protection for Mika brought him face to face with his worst fear. He would have to step right into the middle of everything he feared in order to save everything he ever wanted...Mika.

I truly loved this story and all the great characters. I definitely need to read more about Maltese Security.

I received an ARC from the publisher via Net Galley.

Doing for Keeps by Seleste Delaney

This book is part of a series called Agents of TRAIT. I hadn't read any of the other books in this series, but I didn't have any trouble reading this as a standalone. I quickly figured out that TRAIT was a secret agency with agents whose abilities lay outside the realm of normal. Nico has the ability to alter something in his voice and convince people to open to his suggestions. His partner, Greta, can see the patterns in everything. She is the primary finder of cases for TRAIT.  Nico has been attracted to Greta for a while. Greta is oblivious even though she thinks she may have some feelings Nico. Greta doesn't like to be touched and is extremely literal and detailed. She reads like someone who is autistic, highly intelligent but lacking people skills and subtlety.

Greta becomes upset when she begins to struggle to find patterns in recent events. She is convinced this warrants looking into and may making something big and dangerous. Unfortunately, no one is listening except Nico. He offers to help her as a way to see if he can better understand how her mind works...and also just to be closer to her. When their teamwork yields results, they lobby for permission to formally investigate. The trail takes them to the middle of the ocean right inside the Bermuda Triangle and into the middle of a huge political and scientific conspiracy. At this point, the danger increases exponentially, and though the timing may be inconvenient, so does their attraction to each other. I love how they both felt so misunderstood by their families but came to understand each other perfectly.

Overall, it was a great suspense with a very slight out of the norm, but not quite paranormal, vibe. It also has some funny moments related to Greta's creative usage of com's.

I received an ARC for review from the publisher via Net Galley.

Irresistible Deceptions by Mackenzie Crowne

Nicky had been taking care of herself for a long time. She ran from her criminal husband and has been hiding herself and the son he doesn't know exists. When her father dies, Nicky takes a risk which allows her husband's unwitting henchman to find her. On the run again, Nicky takes her son and runs to the only place she feels safe. Her friends hire a security firm to protect Nicky until her fugitive ex husband can be apprehended. Rhyder (Rhy) is the man on the job, but unbeknownst to Nicky, he is also the man her ex sent to find her. Rhy realizes he was tricked and used by Nicky's ex, but he isn't sure how much of what he was told about her might actually be true. Having been hurt before, he isn't willing to trust Nicky to be who she says she is. Nicky doesn't even want to know Rhy. She thinks she and her son are safer on their own and keeps trying to ditch Rhy. Eventually the two agree to work together, and long nights alone lead to lead to getting to know each other very well, in more ways than one. As the danger escalates, so does Rhy's desire to keep Nicky and her son forever, but his deceptions may tear them apart.

I was unfamiliar with this author but decided to check out the book based on the publisher. I always have good luck with Entangled Ignite titles. This story was no different. I enjoyed the characters, especially Nicky's son, Alex, and the fast pace of the plot kept me interested and invested in the story.

I received an ARC from the publisher via Net Galley.

Resurrection River by Lindsay Cross

This story is book two in the Men of Mercy series, and oh what men they are...whew! While this could definitely be read as a standalone, I highly recommend reading book one first. You will love it, so start there. Resurrection River focuses on Ranger, the brother of the hero from book one, Hunter. The relationship between Ranger and Amy started long before this book, but somewhere along the line it got messed up. That didn't stop the two from having feelings for each other, although Amy's marriage to Ranger's best friend does keep them from acting on those feelings...at least until he dies. Ranger had to deliver the news of his friend's death, and steps up to take care of Amy and her baby. Amy wants to be with Ranger, but feels guilt. The two clash frequently over Amy's doubts, but when dangerous things begin to happen surrounding her, Ranger is determined not to ever leave her side regardless of what she wants or who else wants her.

I loved this story just as much as book one, maybe even more. Ranger was totally swoon worthy, and Amy was spunky and determined. When this couple gets hot and bothered, serious sparks fly. I love them and the other men from Ranger's team. I can't wait to see who gets the next story! I'm hoping it's Merc!

I received an early copy for review from the author.

The Bride Wore Crimson by Adrianne Lee

This story is the second in the Weddingville series. Weddingville is a picturesque little town using wedding tourism to bring the town back to life. I highly recommend reading book one before you start this one, or Weddingville and Daryl Anne's place there will likely take a minute to understand.

Daryl Anne is finally settling into her new life working the family business and spending time with Seth. Everything finally seems calm, and even her recently single friend, Meg, is getting back into the swing of things. All is well until a rash of wedding related thefts lead to murder, and Daryl Anne suspects someone close to her family might be involved. She decides the best way to protect her family is to investigate on her own, though Meg and Seth, of course, get in on the action too. I was thrilled to see Daryl Anne and Seth's relationship progress. He is so good for her. I also enjoy Daryl Anne's little inner monologues. For me, this was like a cozy with just enough spice to make things interesting.

I received an advance copy for review from the publisher through Net Galley.

Best Kindle Unlimited Romantic Suspense Series Listing

This is a list of links to the first book in each of my favorite Kindle Unlimited romantic suspense book series. I hope you enjoy them! If you are not familiar with Kindle Unlimited, it is a reader subscription service where you pay a small monthly fee (like $9.99) and can borrow unlimited amounts of books up to 10 at a time. Since I tend to read about a book per day, this program really saves me money. Even if you don't have Kindle Unlimited, these books are available for regular purchase and are wonderful reads. Enjoy, and let more know if you discover a series you love!

The Russian Guns (dark and wonderful)

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00YV1O32K?keywords=The%20Russian%20Guns&qid=1444075992&ref_=sr_1_4&s=digital-text&sr=1-4

The Kathleen Turner series

http://www.amazon.com/Turning-Back-Kathleen-Turner-Book-ebook/dp/B00AI1L6N6/ref=sr_1_4?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1444076108&sr=1-4&keywords=Kathleen+Turner


Tiffany Black series (clean but also good)

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00F0QWBNS/ref=series_dp_rw_ca_1

Avery Shaw series ( so funny)

http://www.amazon.com/What-Where-When-Avery-Mystery-ebook/dp/B005HZ1BJC/ref=sr_1_2?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1440040618&sr=1-2&keywords=avery+shaw+mysteries+by+amanda+m+lee

Blackness series ( dark and awesome)

http://www.amazon.com/Blackness-Takes-Over-Awaits-Book-ebook/dp/B00JSZ536E/ref=sr_1_4?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1440040693&sr=1-4&keywords=blackness+series

Vengeance series (love, love, love)

http://www.amazon.com/Love-Vengeance-Wanted-Men-Book-ebook/dp/B00LMJV6NI/ref=pd_sim_351_2?ie=UTF8&refRID=1AREK34ZS7BGGWS3NC7E


Chicago Syndicate series ( dark but loved it)


http://www.amazon.com/For-Fallon-Chicago-Syndicate-Book-ebook/dp/B00M4QD528/ref=pd_sim_351_10?ie=UTF8&refRID=100YB3R479020FJ1W81W

Broken trilogy 

http://www.amazon.com/Broken-Trilogy-Book-1-ebook/dp/B00U6XPLTG/ref=sr_1_11?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1440041618&sr=1-11

Callahan and McClane series

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00HNFD9VC/ref=series_rw_dp_sw

The Aegis series

http://www.amazon.com/Extreme-Measures-The-Aegis-Series-ebook/dp/B00GU1VZCK/ref=pd_sim_351_2?ie=UTF8&refRID=198HXK814M8FN4G1WMG0

Cape Trouble series

http://www.amazon.com/Shroud-Cape-Trouble-Novel-Book-ebook/dp/B00I68BF3E/ref=pd_sim_351_2?ie=UTF8&refRID=11D8FJREEGBCM086HVHD

K2 Team

http://www.amazon.com/Crazy-Her-K2-Team-Novel-ebook/dp/B00ISCXNO2/ref=pd_sim_351_1?ie=UTF8&refRID=0DCRNTCJRSX1XBM05YN5

Skye Cree series

http://www.amazon.com/Bones-Others-Skye-Cree-Book-ebook/dp/B00B73XV00/ref=sr_1_400?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1440042663&sr=1-400

The Night Stalkers

http://www.amazon.com/Night-Mine-Stalkers-Book-ebook/dp/B006IBG2MK/ref=sr_1_659?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1440042943&sr=1-659

Lei Crime

http://www.amazon.com/Blood-Orchids-Lei-Crime-Book-ebook/dp/B006FBDHG2/ref=pd_sim_351_14?ie=UTF8&refRID=0MT47STNDMX58KDJ36P9

Weekday Brides

http://www.amazon.com/Wife-Wednesday-Weekday-Brides-Book-ebook/dp/B009LM4EBO/ref=sr_1_2?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1444076502&sr=1-2&keywords=Weekday+Brides

Annihilate Me

http://www.amazon.com/Annihilate-Me-Vol-ebook/dp/B00CJGUHR4/ref=sr_1_4?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1444076554&sr=1-4&keywords=annihilate+me

Christmas River

http://www.amazon.com/Murder-Christmas-River-Cozy-Mystery-ebook/dp/B00AM12226/ref=sr_1_4?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1444076615&sr=1-4&keywords=Christmas+river

Sweetwater ( book one is not on unlimited, but book two is)


http://www.amazon.com/Admit-One-Sweetwater-Book-2-ebook/dp/B00O4CQXVU/ref=pd_sim_351_2?ie=UTF8&refRID=1P7CQZ2GGCR2BVCGV0YM&dpID=51EftmMAvsL&dpSrc=sims&preST=_UX300_PJku-sticker-v3%2CTopRight%2C0%2C-44_AC_UL480_SR318%2C480_

Black Knights

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B008B8A8JQ/ref=series_rw_dp_sw

The Ugly Roses

http://www.amazon.com/Frayed-Rope-The-Ugly-Roses-ebook/dp/B00RYC3BWQ/ref=pd_sim_351_2?ie=UTF8&refRID=0APB24DG81Q66K2TAZ5Y&dpID=416jKX1ZHwL&dpSrc=sims&preST=_UX300_PJku-sticker-v3%2CTopRight%2C0%2C-44_AC_UL160_SR114%2C160_

Callaghan Brothers

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00PX02PU0?keywords=abbie%20zanders%20kindle%20books&qid=1444077087&ref_=sr_1_5&sr=8-5

Darkness

http://www.amazon.com/Darkness-Lurks-Series-Book-ebook/dp/B00ZYJ3H2K/ref=pd_sim_351_2?ie=UTF8&refRID=10MV0BWA12T1WN2H2HJT&dpID=41r2R50yyZL&dpSrc=sims&preST=_UX300_PJku-sticker-v3%2CTopRight%2C0%2C-44_AC_UL480_SR300%2C480_

Kerr Chronicles

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00SZ35D4W?ref_=cm_cr-mr-title

The Russian Guns series by Bethany Kris

https://www.amazon.com/review/R792C7JLAFX7H/ref=cm_cr_rdp_perm

This is a link to my review of the first book in this series. I have actually finished all five books in the series now, and I completely fell in love with them. As an added bonus, they were all part of the Kindle Unlimited program, so I got to read them for free with my subscription. If like your heroes a bit dark, give this series a try!

Death Before Decaf by Caroline Fardig

So I started off trading this book being totally unfamiliar with the author. I received an advertisement saying it was perfect for fans of Janet Evanovich, which I am. I can say I don't find it similar to the Stephanie Plum series with the exception of the two different semi love interests. Honestly, it started off a bit slow for me, and I wasn't sure I was going to like Juliet. She grew on me quickly though, and I was soon sucked into the story and the characters. Juliet is a bit off a loose cannon. She tends to go off a bit unprepared and without much forethought at times. Her friend, Peter, is the voice of reason she tends to ignore. She has been in love with him for a very long time, but she won't risk telling him and ruining their friendship. Instead, she sits by and watches as he dates a woman who hates Juliet and then she ends up making a hookup with a sexy professor from the nearby university. Ryder looks like every woman's dream, but Juliet still finds some aspects of his behavior and background suspicious. Not surprisingly though, this does not keep her from hooking up with him. In the meantime, Juliet is trying to begin her new jib as the manner of the coffee shop owned by her friend Peter. Just as things are starting out a little rocky, they quickly become worse. As she stays late one night, Juliet discovers one of her employees murdered and left in the dumpster. The police lead her to believe she is their favored suspect. Juliet decides the best thing she can do is to investigate the murder on her own and prove that there are other viable suspects. Unfortunately, this leads Juliet into many dangerous and suspect situations. If that's not enough, more and more questions keep popping up about Ryder. Between the danger, the mixed up relationships, and the often funny situations Juliet gets her and her guys into , I really enjoyed this book, and I'm interested to see where the author takes the series in the future.

I received a copy for review from Net Galley.

No Room for Error by Julie Moffett

I have been a fan of the series for a very long time. It is one of my very favorites because Lexi always cracks me up . Her research topics certainly are amusing , and this time, she completely outdoes herself . I was laughing out loud like crazy. I also like this book because Lexi and Slash end up taking their relationship a bit deeper and opening up so much more . I completely love Slash in this book.

 So the story starts off with Lexi taking a job doing a favor for her friends the twins. The twins have invented some new technology which Lexi believes to be world changing. However, neither of the twins is healthy enough to travel to oversee the initial manufacturing of their technology . They opt to send Lexi in their place. Finn and Basia are tapped to go along on the trip and help deliver the technology which has been ensconced in an "indestructible" case. Unfortunately, as Lexi's luck would have it, nothing is ever that easy. The private plane carrying Lexi and her friends is hijacked and then crashed in the remote jungles of Papua New Guinea. With no way to contact anyone and no technology at their fingertips , Lexi and her friends must fight to survive . I love the way Lexi develops in the story. She finally finds out how tough she actually is , even without a computer. The story was nonstop action , but even had a few of the trademark Lexi laughs. The ending was super sweet , and it made me love Slash even more than I did. I truly cannot wait to read more of this series!

I received a copy for review from Net Galley.

Prisoner of Love by Cathy Skendrovich

When Lucy set out for a weekend of fun with friends, she could not have imagined how wrong her plans would go. She is stopped along the road trying to correct a wrong turn when a member of the prison work crew she passed on the road jumps in and takes her hostage with a homemade knife. The convict, Jake, is actually an undercover cop, but he can't tell her and risk blowing his cover. He acts the past of a felon knowing he is terrifying Lucy, but believes it is the best way to keep her safe. All Lucy can think about is how to escape. Unfortunately, Jake foils her every attempt. When she wakes up the next morning and finds herself alone, she is relieved. She reports everything to the police and then returns to her own life. She tries to move on and forget everything, but then an injured Jake shows up at her door. He finally tells her the truth and asks to simply hide out in her apartment. She relents, but when an attacker comes for her, Jake realizes he has linked her to him and now needs to keep her with him to keep her safe.

The two take off on the run intent on proving Jake's innocence and catching a mobster in the process, but they also have to face the increasingly strong feelings they have for each other.

I enjoyed the story, especially Jake's quirky sense of humor and cute nicknames.

I received an ARC from the publisher through Net Galley.

Redemption River by Lindsay Cross

This book is the first in a new series. Several characters ( the members of Hunter's task force team) are introduced right off the bat. They have a funny sense of humor and the team camaraderie reads very strong. After returning from a disastrous mission overseas, a connection is found in the U.S. linking back to the terrorist they had been tracking. Jake and his team are sent undercover back to his hometown where he is expected to get in with the suspect in any way possible. The only problem is that the suspect is Evie, Hunter's former lover. He has tried to convince himself over the years that he hates her, but if sleeping with her will get him the answers he needs, he has no problem with it. What Hunter doesn't know is that after he left her, Evie chose a man on the rebound and ended up in a sickly abusive relationship. She got out but still lives in terror of her ex. Now, her ex has leveraged her cooperation with something illegal, and she can't find a safe way out of it. When Hunter throws himself into the mix, things become just as dangerous as they are complicated. He quickly realized Evie isn't the criminal he was led to believe, but will she still want him after she finds out why he sought her out in the first place?

This book was wall to wall action. Once the danger hit, it never slowed down. I was actually late leaving my house this morning because there was no way I could stop reading at 95%. I absolutely had to know how it was going to end. A little blurb at the end of the epilogue caught me by surprise and made me very excited about the next book. Lindsay Cross is absolutely going on my favorite authors list.

I received an ARC from Net Galley.

Lethal Game by Julie Rowe

I kept putting off reading this book because I wasn't sure I would like it. It was a little outside of my norm. I'm not much for medical stories or sad stories, and this seemed like it might be a bit of both. Fortunately, I got bored and decided to give it a try. I was hooked from the beginning and kept sneaking a few paragraphs in on my phone even when sitting in the drive through line because I couldn't put it down. I can't recall reading this author before, and I definitely haven't read the first book in this series, although it didn't affect my enjoyment of this story. It completely worked as a standalone.

The story focuses on a military biological response team tasked with tracking outbreaks caused by a particular biological terrorist in the middle east. Sophia is the best doctor for determining the cause of illness and the treatment. Though she has been sick most of her life, she has special dispensation for the military due to the extreme need for her skills. Unfortunately, she is getting sicker every day but refuses to let it be known in fear of being pulled from her work and sent home. As the terrorist begins to attack the very tall force tracking him down, security is increased, and Sophia is assigned a partner of sorts/ bodyguard, Connor. While Sophia knows she will likely die on this mission, Connor kind of hopes to. After losing his team, suffering life threatening injuries, and enduring a long recovery, all he wants to do is get revenge. If he dies trying, that's even better. Sophia has a reputation for being difficult, but she obviously identifies with Connor, and the two become inseparable. After physical threats against Sophia make staying on base dangerous, she and Connor are deployed to Lebanon to identify and treat an outbreak. Things are suspicious from the moment they arrive, and things go downhill from there. They are in a race against time for the health of the refugees and Sophia's health as well. Not surprisingly, danger has followed them to the refugee camp, and both Connor and Sophia must decide just how badly they want to live.

I absolutely adored this story. Sophia was so feisty and yet so bluntly literal. The things she said, and Connor's obvious subsequent amusement had me smiling. They made a great couple. The writing flowed quickly and read very realistically. I'm sure I will be reading more in this series.

I received an ARC from Net Galley.