The story resumes where the first book left off and the tension never ceases!
We learn much more about the inner workings of The Light as Jacob and SaThe story resumes where the first book left off and the tension never ceases!
We learn much more about the inner workings of The Light as Jacob and Sara try to navigate their way out of potentially dangerous situations. There are so many plot twists and revelations it was hard to find stopping points.
Whatever I thought I knew and understood about cult organizations was severely challenged and tested. Even though mind altering substances were used to initially control many of the women, it was still the conditioning that remained and kept them under control long after the drug use ceased. It was psychologically fascinating and it made me wonder how I would have fared.
This was an excellent two-book series, though the epilogue suggests the story hasn't ended. I hope not as this was a very interesting subject matter with much more that could be explored. For those who like to read out of order...don't. You'll be utterly confused so do yourself a favor and start with the first book. I liked how things ended for Jacob and Sara but am intrigued about the future possibilities.
(I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review)...more
Natalia Puccini is the successful owner of her family's bakery. If only she wasn't so lousy with her relationships, especially the two that cheated onNatalia Puccini is the successful owner of her family's bakery. If only she wasn't so lousy with her relationships, especially the two that cheated on her. The most recent is now engaged to her traitorous cousin and Natalia has to do the family thing and serve as the brat's maid of honor. As if things couldn't get worse, her first love, Aiden McCann, is back in town after a ten-year absence.
This was a sweet story but tackled some pretty heavy themes...alcoholism, cancer, infidelity, trust, redemption...just to name a few. Aiden's absence had much more to do with his awful relationship with his father but the impact was the same. I enjoyed how their struggle to come to terms with the old relationship was woven into Aiden's issues involving his own family.
I was thrilled to learn Red River wasn't over and based on the ending, looks like we should be back here again. Aiden and Natalia are nice people who deserved a second chance. The scenes involving her cousin provided comic relief to the heavier issues but I was pretty satisfied with how all that turned out. I enjoyed this story and hope my instincts are correct about another book in the works.
(I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review)
Part three of this trilogy was no less exciting than the first two, with some interesting twists and revelations. It looks like Maggie and Jake work wPart three of this trilogy was no less exciting than the first two, with some interesting twists and revelations. It looks like Maggie and Jake work well as a team but who knows what the future holds.
This story ended on a crazy ride with one part of the plot still unresolved. I'm hoping we see more of this series as I like this author's writing style. ...more
Lawson (Law) Monroe was the sous chef at the Mimosa Key Ritz-Carlton when Jake Carpenter, his surrogate father, friend and proprietor of the Toasted PLawson (Law) Monroe was the sous chef at the Mimosa Key Ritz-Carlton when Jake Carpenter, his surrogate father, friend and proprietor of the Toasted Pelican, dies of a stroke. Law has begged Jake for years to allow him to turn the seedy bar into a "gastropub" and on his deathbed, Jake told him that he wanted him to have the bar. But, soon after, Law runs into serious obstacles finding Jake's will and the owners of the shell company barring him from taking over. Libby Chesterfield, Law's high school dream, is behind the stonewalling and the two of them go head-t0-head in battling over the property and their obvious personal attraction.
Honestly, I wasn't looking forward to Law's story as I'd judged him (unfairly) as shallow and sexist. Trust St. Claire to turn my opinion on its head as not only was he a man of true substance but was someone quite admirable given all he'd overcome. Libby represents all those gorgeous women we think are so lucky to have those physical gifts but is dying inside to be taken seriously and judged for those things other than exterior assets.
This was a complicated story despite Law and Libby's glib banter. Figuring out the mystery behind Jake's ownership of the bar and Libby's true paternity was a bit gnarly and interesting. But, I wasn't charmed by her offbeat mother, who created lots of unnecessary drama in her children's lives. It was such a good book and am glad I didn't put it off. And, the good news is there will be three more silver fox stories! Well done as it's such a nice change of pace to read about more mature characters. Loved it!
(I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review) ...more
It was absolute pure bliss being back in Myron Bolitar's world! Thank you Harlan Coben for delivering on your promise to give us another story in the It was absolute pure bliss being back in Myron Bolitar's world! Thank you Harlan Coben for delivering on your promise to give us another story in the series.
I'm not going to spoil the experience for other readers so suffice it to say that we're immediately brought up to date on what's happened since we last saw most of the characters. I will share, however, that one of the best surprises is being given Win Lockwood's point of view throughout the book. That was just delicious.
The situation Myron and Win are investigating is personal. Ten years ago, Rhys Baldwin, who is Win's nephew, and his best friend, Patrick Moore, were abducted from the Baldwin home. They were six years old at the time and now, Patrick has been sighted in London.
I loved everything about this story. Steven Weber does a great job narrating, really nailing Win and handling a host of characters. There's wit, humor, mystery, suspense and action...and stunning twists at the end. What more could I have asked for? ...more
Grace Davingham is the daughter of a rock star and a supermodel who have a reality TV show. Two years ago she escaOriginally posted onThe Book Nympho
Grace Davingham is the daughter of a rock star and a supermodel who have a reality TV show. Two years ago she escaped the madness and landed in Eastbridge, living a life of solitude as a nature artist. She's loved living her life on her own terms, even if it's a bit lonely. Marc Colby couldn't be more opposite. He's a real estate investor from a wealthy, rather tight-lipped family. The odds of these two sustaining a relationship are pretty low but they bring out the best in each other.
Grace is so very aptly named as she's very centered and clear about who she is and what she wants from life. She's an absolutely lovely character who sees beyond Marc's austere veneer, breathing much needed life into his workaholic routine. Add a wild Great Dane called Big Blue to the mix and you have quite the cocktail.
I really enjoyed this story. Both were passionate in their own way and Big Blue added adventure. The downside of fame and publicity surrounding reality TV was realistically portrayed and anyone craving this lifestyle would be given pause. This was an interesting series with diverse issues and characters that I found admirable and appealing. I'm sad to see it come to an end.
(I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review) ...more
Rock star Asher Knight has just learned he has a 3-year old son by the woman who derailed his relationship with his agent, Gloria Shields. He's back i Rock star Asher Knight has just learned he has a 3-year old son by the woman who derailed his relationship with his agent, Gloria Shields. He's back in Evergreen Cove to establish a relationship with his son and hopefully get the one with Gloria back on track. But she's a big commitment challenge and he's got his work cut out for him.
Both Asher and Gloria are fascinating characters, she especially. Gloria's tough, highly skilled and an infamous loner. I was looking forward to getting inside her head and the story didn't disappoint here. Her backstory explained everything and I felt I got her. I also liked that she made Asher, the infamous manwhore, work really, really hard for her, which I normally would find tiresome but not this time.
Where the story broke down for me was when it didn't stay true to the character. The whole storyline involving Brice just didn't make sense. Gloria would have figured him out before he opened his mouth. Also, there was a lot she and Asher needed to resolve but every interaction devolved into a sexual encounter...over and over again. Too much for my sensibilities and they both were much too interesting to sacrifice story for sex.
I also liked how much Asher and Gloria's friends were a significant part of this story. The baby mama drama, however clichéd, was painfully realistic. I just would have enjoyed the story much better with a lot less sex and more substance. 3.5 stars
(I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review)...more
Tony Lopez is recovering from the ending of his marriage, struggling to save his business and working diligently tOriginally posted on The Book Nympho
Tony Lopez is recovering from the ending of his marriage, struggling to save his business and working diligently to co-parent his two young daughters. When he meets Beth Cody, the single and pregnant best friend of Holly Ward, he's struck by an indescribable connection that has him tongue tied. Months later when they meet yet again at the home his brother shares with Holly, Beth takes the initiative.
There's a lot to admire about these two. Tony is such a good guy, trying to do right by everyone in his orbit, including his ex-wife. Beth is more of a free spirit who is fiercely independent and committed to not being in a committed relationship. They're good together but she just doesn't believe in happily ever after. Their story of how they master all that separates them is inspiring and realistic.
I actually liked this story more than the first, primarily because Tony and Beth are such authentic characters, grounded in their histories. The ending even stayed true to who I believed them to be. It's a sensual story, especially considering it's a romance involving a 7-month pregnant woman and a single father of two little girls. Very nicely done.
(I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review)...more
Jennifer Crawford, the youngest sister, is trapped in an abusive relationship with a man, Jeffrey Rothchild, who iOriginally posted on The Book Nympho
Jennifer Crawford, the youngest sister, is trapped in an abusive relationship with a man, Jeffrey Rothchild, who is determined to force her into marriage. Jennifer doesn't want to create a scandal for her family and suffers in silence. Zebidiah Moran, her brother-in-law's chief of staff, is determined to intervene and provide safe harbor.
As awful as modern-day domestic violence is it has to have been even more horrific in an era when wives were deemed to be their husbands' property. Jennifer's struggle was heartbreaking, made more so by her dysfunctional and unsupportive parents. Her desire to manage the situation on her own while remaining steadfast in her refusal to marry Jeffrey was admirable. Jennifer's relationship with Zeb developed slowly as a result but that just made it more compelling.
I wasn't as eager for this story because Jennifer hadn't seemed that interesting in the earlier books. That's what I get for assuming because I literally couldn't put this book down, finishing it in a day. Though the subject matter is disturbing, Jennifer's triumph is uplifting. And, it's handled sensitively and in keeping with the historical period. It is a fitting and satisfying end to a wonderful series.
(I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review)...more
Connor and Karen Donovan, Drake and Lucy's parents, have been estranged for the last three years. Just as Karen thinks there might be a thaw in their Connor and Karen Donovan, Drake and Lucy's parents, have been estranged for the last three years. Just as Karen thinks there might be a thaw in their relationship, he retreats. However, a man who Connor was responsible for bringing to justice now threatens not only his future with Karen but her very life.
This short story wastes no time in ratcheting up the tension and packs a wallop. It brings closure to the Donovan family though an odd ending to an enjoyable series. ...more
This story continues where the last book ended with FBI agents Maggie O'Dell and R. J. Tully in pursuit of a vicious serial killer preying on truck stThis story continues where the last book ended with FBI agents Maggie O'Dell and R. J. Tully in pursuit of a vicious serial killer preying on truck stops and highway rest areas. It seems as if the killer is taunting them as he provides clues that lead directly to one of his dumping grounds.
While I enjoyed the story, I was still plagued by the same issues I've always had throughout the series. Maggie's relationship issues don't make sense and she's again falling into serious attraction with a new character, Ryder Creek. He runs a cadaver dog training business and assists during the investigation. At least she seems healthier both emotionally and physically.
The pace was excellent, the story fascinating and the mystery intriguing. I liked that Tully had a more expansive role here, along with Gwen Patterson. The ending, however, was a bit abrupt for me with still too many loose ends dangling, especially as this is the last book in the series (though Maggie continues in the spinoff). I'm signing off here and won't be continuing into the new one as the character development and story conclusions are big misses for me. ...more
Gabe Rossi is still reeling after learning of Isadora (Isa) Winter's death. Unfortunately, soon after learning she had his son, he finds out he died bGabe Rossi is still reeling after learning of Isadora (Isa) Winter's death. Unfortunately, soon after learning she had his son, he finds out he died before he was two years old. He's rudderless until a mysterious woman named Lila Wickham approaches him one night with an incredible story that completely changes his life.
I won't say much about the details of the story but this was one I couldn't put down. It surpassed my expectations and was worthy of Gabe Rossi. Lila's history was pretty incredible and it was an interesting concept to explore...how much does one's outer package define a truly committed relationship? Would you be able to relate to that person in the same way if he or she later looked nothing like the person you fell in love with? These aren't necessarily easy answers as I discovered in this exploration.
The mystery involving Lila is always in the background but wasn't difficult to untangle. I figured out most of the "who" and a part of the "why" but it wasn't as important as Gabe and Lila's relationship journey. Uncle Nino and Poppy added Italian flavor and Jamaican spice, as well as hilarity. I've loved the Barefoot Bay enterprise and was initially a bit leery of Gabe Rossi. However, he was just what this resort needed. Loved everything about this book and while it has a satisfying ending, I'd be ready for more.
(I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review)...more
Eight years ago, JT McKinney lost his leg in a car accident and completely upended his plans for a football careerOriginally posted on The Book Nympho
Eight years ago, JT McKinney lost his leg in a car accident and completely upended his plans for a football career and much more. He's now the co-owner of a successful California-based company, far from his family in Virginia, but he's living a lonely and solitary life...until he meets diner waitress Paige Roberts and her precocious 4-year old daughter, Casey. She and JT have a common bond.
If you're looking for heartwarming and cuteness, you'll love this story. I really appreciated how this was more about the slow development of Paige and JT's relationship than the angst behind their circumstances. It was lovely to see the three of them (Casey is a huge part of the story) find their way to creating a family.
I learned a lot about prostheses and was awed by the modern advancements and level of technology. It was an important element. This is a lovely story and a beautiful end to the series.
(I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review)...more
Single mother Lin Su Simmons is the home care nurse for Winnie Banks, Grace Headly's wealthy mother who is suffering from ALS. Her 14-year old son, ChSingle mother Lin Su Simmons is the home care nurse for Winnie Banks, Grace Headly's wealthy mother who is suffering from ALS. Her 14-year old son, Charlie, is a great kid but underdeveloped because of his asthma condition. When triathlon athlete Blake Smiley moves next door to Winnie, he and Charlie quickly form a wonderful relationship. Though Lin Su is also attracted, she's challenged by this man who wants her to ease up control of her son to let him develop and get stronger.
Family is a strong theme in this story, one that provides challenges to Amerasian Lin Su who was adopted at age three. She's estranged from her adopted family, unclear about her biological mother and has no contact with her son's father. I completely understood Lin Su's overprotective nature when it came to her son's health as his issues were scary and real. Her reluctance to let go was a combination of a need for control and motherly instincts (which were dead on most of the time).
What was tougher to understand was Lin Su's dogged stubbornness in understanding the difference between generosity and charity. She struggled financially and lived in a dangerous neighborhood, which made her resistance in allowing others who considered her family or friend just maddening. It was also hard to connect to her burgeoning relationship with Blake because she just wasn't that friendly or nice. Charlie was the glue as he was just a wonderful teen with an infectious personality. I'm not sure there would have been a Lin Su and Blake without him.
I think this is the last book in this series as many of the other Thunder Point characters either have an appearance here or summary updates provided. I liked this story even though the romance was tepid. The strength of the other aspects made this an enjoyable reading experience. I've loved this series and the spirit of community present in every story was a foundation in this one. 3.5 stars
(I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review)...more
Rivers Fitzroy is the youngest of the Breconridge brothers, all sons of the Duke of Breconridge who is still lookiOriginally posted on The Book Nympho
Rivers Fitzroy is the youngest of the Breconridge brothers, all sons of the Duke of Breconridge who is still looking for a grandson to continue the legacy he's carefully created. When Rivers enters into a wager with his friend to transform mousy theater dresser Lucia di Rossi into an actress, he never considers it would change his life so profoundly.
Unbeknownst to anyone, Lucia is already delivering a performance as she does what she needs to do to survive within a family of renowned dancers who think she's talentless. Though Rivers did recognize a certain spark during the development of the wager, it still didn't prepare him for the depths of Lucia's skills.
This was a lovely story, reminiscent of Pygmalion or a young Professor Higgins and Eliza in My Fair Lady, though Lucia doesn't have quite the same hill to climb. Rivers is sweet and Lucia passionate, both bonding almost immediately because of their shared love of reading and Shakespeare. Since he's third in succession to his father's title, there's less pressure on him, leaving him free to pursue his own interests so that makes the story more plausible. I enjoyed their relationship and the entire focus on the theater world in this era, even when Lucia's lack of trust could be irritating at times.
I've enjoyed the series and this was a fine conclusion, even if the ending was a bit of fantasy.
(I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review)...more
When Riley MacPherson returns home to New Bern, North Carolina following her father's death, she discovers information among his belongings that unveiWhen Riley MacPherson returns home to New Bern, North Carolina following her father's death, she discovers information among his belongings that unveils a lifetime of secrets.
I found this to be an interesting story with an underlying message about the cost of withholding secrets from family for their sake. The toll it took on Riley's self perception and her damaged brother, Danny, was immeasurable. I thought it was an apt illustration of good intentions gone awry.
I liked the story though I figured out the mysteries pretty early and easily. While I didn't love the book, it still kept my interest throughout. Also, the narrator delivered a really good performance for quite the cast of characters. I highly recommend the audio format....more
We finally get to the end of the story for Gideon and Eva. They're secretly married and now planning their wedding for friends and family.
Not a wholeWe finally get to the end of the story for Gideon and Eva. They're secretly married and now planning their wedding for friends and family.
Not a whole lot happens here but you do see two people whose relationship has matured and no longer susceptible to the things others do to try and divide them. Their trust seems almost unbreakable, in essence creating breakthroughs for both of them but, most notably for Gideon.
There was a serious twist near the end of the story, one I never saw coming. That story was compelling and brought out the best in Gideon and Eva. The dual narrators worked well in this story and I leaned more towards Jeremy York's performance being my favorite. He seemed to wear all things Gideon very well and it just works to get his point of view.
Even though I believe this and the fourth book could have been combined into one, it was a good ending to the series. It's not wrapped in a bow but headed down a path that is optimistic and strong for these characters. 3.5 stars
This last book in the series slipped off my radar. What a mistake as it was one of the most interesting.
DEA Agent Val Grayson, the oldest of his three brothers, devoted his life to them after his father died in a storm when they were still in high school. He made certain they stayed out of trouble, are now leading productive lives and in committed relationships. Now that there's nothing left for him to do, he's taking a critical look at his own successful but lonely life. While he's known boutique store owner Cameron (Cam) Stahl for awhile, he considers her out of his league as she comes from an old money Boston family. But, when they get an opportunity to know each other better, sparks fly on both ends.
I was just as eager to get to know Cam as I was Val. She was the enigma she seemed to be, struggling to live a more relevant life than one filled with charity fundraisers and the like promoted by her overbearing mother. Their romance developed slowly and Val's concerns about her family's acceptance of him were authentically presented.
There's a continuing story arc related to drug smuggling and a shipwreck rumored to be somewhere in the harbor. It's resolved here in a spectacular way, involving both Val and Cam. It was intriguing and brought a lot more excitement and tension than I'd anticipated.
This was a really good series and I regret having taken so long to read Val and Cam's story. Both are admirable characters and their romance was pretty special. I loved how the mystery ended and how it impacted the main characters of the series. Well done.
(I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review)...more
Loading...
