Review ~ Rescuing Rayne ~ Susan Stoker #COYER

Rescuing Rayne by Susan Stoker
Delta Force Heroes #1
Release Date: February 9, 2016
Genre: Adult, Romantic Suspense
Source: Kindle Freebie
Rating: 4 Bookworms
Challenges: #COYER, #ShelfLove
Goodreads

Synopsis
As a flight attendant, Rayne Jackson is used to cancellations, but she never dreamed her latest would lead to a whirlwind tour of London with a handsome stranger...or a life-altering night in his bed. One evening is all the enigmatic man can give her, and Rayne greedily takes it, despite suspecting it will never be enough.

Heading home after another extreme missions, Keane "Ghost" Bryson hadn't planned to seduce someone during his layover, but Rayne is too sweet to resist. Being a Delta Force member means lying to protect his identity, which is unfortunate, considering Rayne seems made for Ghost, right down to the tattoo on her back. For the first time in his life, regret fills him as he slips away the following morning.

Both are shocked when, months later, they meet again - under the worst possible circumstances. Seems fate has given them a second chance...if they can survive the terrorist situation they're in. If Ryane can forgive Ghost his lies. And if Ghost can trust Rayne to be strong enough to endure the secrets and uncertainty that come with loving a Delta Force soldier.

Rescuing Rayne is the first in the Delta Force Heroes series and served as my introduction to Susan Stoker's brand of romantic suspense. Stoker's characters are well-defined and the suspense was tight, if predictable. I enjoyed meeting Ghost and Rayne and look forward to getting better acquainted with the guys of Delta Force.

Highlights:

• Characters/Romance
  Ghost and Rayne are well developed. I had a good sense of who they were - courageous, protective, loyal, smart - individually and they also made a strong couple. The way Stoker developed them and their romance - their meeting and the impact they made on each other, how they left one another and found each other again - felt very realistic even with the element of fate being involved. Their connection was palpable and Stoker also involved the secondary cast well. Ghost's team, and even a few others, are well-drawn. The dynamics between them felt genuine and I want to get to know these guys better. They way they take each others' backs and the way they enveloped Rayne into their fold was heartwarming.
• Suspense
  Despite the circumstances that created the suspense being a foregone conclusion, Stoker chose a relevant way to incorporate the suspense. She also didn't skimp on the horror and terror - although it wasn't explicit. There was one aspect I felt was a bit unrealistic given the situation though.

Overall, Stoker's brand of romantic suspense worked well for me. I'm eager to continue this series as well as check out her other series. 

New(ish) Release Review ~ Relentless ~ Elizabeth Dyer #2018NewRelease

Relentless by Elizabeth Dyer
Somerton Security #2
Release Date: June 12, 2018
Genre: Adult, Romantic Suspense
Source: I received an eARC from Montlake Romance via Netgalley. This did not affect my rating and my review is provided voluntarily.
Rating: 3.5 Bookworms
Challenges: #2018NewRelease
Goodreads

Synopsis
Ethan Somerton doesn't do safe or easy. He's all about the challenge. The risk. In order to rescue one of his agents, Ethan must infiltrate the ruthless Vega cartel. One tiny error - just one - and he's dead. Which means he needs Natalia Vega. Bright, beautiful, and cut sharper than the most lethal blade, she's finally reached her breaking point. Now Ethan must find a way to make her surrender.

Caught between desperate choices and no-win situations, Natalia has survived the unthinkable by becoming dangerous, relentless, and feared. When it comes to protecting her sister, there's no line Natalia won't cross. But when Ethan storms into her life with his cocksure arrogance, stone-cold competence, and seductive promises, Natalia wonders if she's finally found a way out. But discovering whether Ethan is salvation or destruction is going to require the one thing Natalia doesn't have - trust.

As the cartel implodes and loved ones are threatened, Ethan and Natalia are going to have to choose between love, loyalty, and the lies they cling to. They could run, knowing they'll never be safe. They could fight, knowing they'll probably die. Or they can trust in each other and do something far more dangerous.

Relentless was suspenseful with well-developed characters. There were a few times when they pacing slowed and a few places where I felt as thought Dyer "told" me rather than "showed" me but overall Ethan and Natalia's story served as a good introduction to Dyer's writing.

What Worked:

• Premise
  Ethan, feeling guilt and a lack of control, must ingratiate himself with the Vega family in order to save a member of his team. The target is Natalia Vega and Ethan would do well not to take her at face value. Ethan has his team at his back as he works against the clock to win Natalia's trust - and maybe more? - and gain the intel he needs. The premise hooked me and kept me turning the pages.
• Characters
  Dyer created a great cast with Ethan and Natalia at its center. She deftly conveyed the type of people Ethan and Natalia are - loyal to a fault, fearless, strong, smart - as well as demonstrating the close relationships they each have with the friends and family. I was particularly fond of the snark and wit shared between Ethan and his friends/team members, Parker and Georgia. These interactions served to illustrate Ethan's ability to trust whereas Natalia's interactions with her sister and others showed her intense lack thereof. Of course, her family runs a cartel so it was understandable.
• Romance/Suspense
  I lumped these two together because as this is romantic suspense, they were inextricably linked. And Dyer did relatively well in developing the romance in a way that amped the suspense. Wondering if Ethan and Natalia could build on the intense chemistry they felt while also moving toward their goals, wondering what would happen if they had to make difficult choices, kept me turning the pages. The dual POV, delivered throughout the chapters rather than alternating, also worked well in conveying the romance and the suspense.

What Could Have Worked Better:

• Pacing
  There were points in the story where the pacing slowed...not something you want in romantic suspense. Most of these places occurred when Dyer "told" me what Ethan or Natalia was thinking or feeling where actions would have "shown" it more succinctly and would have kept the pace moving.
• Romance
  While the chemistry between Ethan and Natalia was evident, I felt that their feelings occurred rather rapidly and mostly in their heads. If they'd spent a little more time together the romance would have felt more genuine.

Relentless, although #2 in the series, can be read as standalone. I was drawn into this world and these characters' lives deeply enough that I want to go back and read #1 as well as continue the series.

#COYER Mini-Challenge Day #7 ~ It's Been a Week of Romantic Suspense

COYER Mini-Challenge: Romantic Suspense

Hey, hey! You made it to Day #7 of our Romantic Suspense Mini-Challenge. How did you do? Again, we sincerely hope you've enjoyed our mini-challenge and that you've created or rekindled a love of romantic suspense. 

To put an end to the suspense (but not the romance), here's what Lexxie and I are up to...

We're getting married!! Er...merging our blogs. *wink* And you're all invited...to the reception!

And the winner of my giveaway is.... Anne!

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#COYER Mini-Challenge Day #6 ~ Down to the Wire...Romantic Suspense

COYER Mini-Challenge: Romantic Suspense

Hey there! Welcome to Day #6 of our Romantic Suspense Mini-Challenge. Your down to the wire...have you read all 3 books? Did you enjoy them all? We sincerely hope you have enjoyed our mini-challenge and that you've created or rekindled a love of romantic suspense. As for me, I finished Relentless by Elizabeth Dyer and am still working on Rescuing Rayne by Susan Stoker. 

So, have y'all figured out what Lexxie and I are up to? What are your ideas? I'm curious what you think. Here's the final installment:

The end...

It seems like the next natural step for us. It isn't something we took lightly. We tiptoed around the idea, neither of us seeming to want to commit. Until we did. We chatted for months, making plans, coming up with ideas. It's taken time, a lot of planning, and a lot of learning. In the end though, we think it's going to be perfect.

...is a new beginning!


Don't forget to get your entries in the Rafflecopter!

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#COYER Mini-Challenge Day #5 ~ Loving Romantic Suspense?

COYER Mini-Challenge: Romantic Suspense

Hey y'all! Welcome to Day #5 of our Romantic Suspense Mini-Challenge. Have you read all 3 books? Have you decided you need more romantic suspense in your reading diet? Tell me how it's going. I finished Relentless by Elizabeth Dyer, and I ended up enjoying it. My review will post soon. :) I'm now reading Rescuing Rayne by Susan Stoker. It'll probably be the last one I finish...if I can manage that. 

Continuing with our story... be sure to check back tomorrow for the *final* installment.

It was a big step, bringing everyone together, but we decided it was time. It was no small feat getting her family (minus 2) over to my continent but we did it. I was worried - can you tell that's my constant state? - about how her family would feel about me...my family...my home. But I shouldn't have. Everyone got along splendidly even if there was a language barrier and we all had a great time. And it was more proof that things - our meeting and being a part of each others' lives - were meant to be!

Don't forget to get your entries in the Rafflecopter!

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#COYER Mini-Challenge Day #3 ~ Are You Enjoying Your Romantic Suspense?

COYER Mini-Challenge: Romantic Suspense

Hey there! Welcome to Day #3 of our Romantic Suspense Mini-Challenge. How's it going so far? Are you enjoying your romantic suspense? What books have you read? I'm about halfway through Relentless by Elizabeth Dyer, and I'm still enjoying it. I just wish I read faster! 

Continuing with our story... be sure to check back tomorrow for the next installment.

I had thought first contact was nerve-racking. It was nothing compared to actually meeting in person. We'd decided on neutral ground for our first face-to-face. She had arrived ahead of me and I found myself wondering if she was as nervous as I? We'd spent time connecting, getting to know each other's likes and dislikes, things we had in common, but things might be different in person. Isn't that what they warn about when "meeting" people online? The butterflies in my stomach felt like bats as the taxi pulled up to my destination. They didn't calm as I entered the establishment. Then I saw her. And when our gazes met, I knew I'd been right about her. 

Don't forget to get your entries in the Rafflecopter!


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#COYER Mini-Challenge ~ Join Us for Some Romantic Suspense Day #2

COYER Mini-Challenge: Romantic Suspense

Hello and welcome to Day #2 of our Romantic Suspense Mini-Challenge. How's it going? Are you enjoying your romantic suspense? I'm reading an ARC I got awhile back - Relentless by Elizabeth Dyer. It's pretty good so far. Tell me about what you're reading. What do you plan to read next?

And now that that first little bit o' fun... each day you'll get a little more of this story.

I've been watching her for awhile. She's beautiful. And she's funny but she's also smart. I can tell. She seems like the kind of woman I could connect with. She intrigued me from the start but I had to be ready before making contact. I'm not sure I'm ready but it's time. I don't want to wait any longer. I'm quite nervous. I've never done this sort of thing before. What will she think? Will she like what I have to say? Will she care? Will she like...me? I bite my lip and wring my hands in anxiety. I take a deep breath. I have to be brave. I have to pluck up the courage or I'll never know. Right? Right. Another deep breath. And I push the button.

Stay tuned for the next installment... and be sure to get your entries in the Rafflecopter!



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#COYER Mini-Challenge ~ Let's Read Some Romantic Suspense!

COYER Mini-Challenge: Romantic Suspense

Hello all :) Welcome to our COYER Mini-Challenge for Romantic Suspense! Lexxie @(un)Conventional Bookviews and I are so happy to have you :)

This challenge is pretty straight forward - read three romantic suspense books this next week, one book that you've bought, one you've borrowed - either from the library or a friend, and one you've received for free - either a gift, or an ARC.

We both love romantic suspense, because there is a little bit of angst to go with the romance, and sometimes, the suspense parts are so good we just can't wait to flip to the next page. Plus, having romance in those books just makes everything a bit more bearable, are we right? 

And since we love our romantic suspense, we have something we hope will be fun for y'all. It's a little romantic and a bit suspenseful. Starting tomorrow, we'll give y'all a bit of a story leading up to something we have in the works...and if you can guess what that something is, you get an extra entry in the giveaway.





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My TBR List Review *May* ~ The Girl in the Sea ~ Lisa Akers #MyTBRL #BloggerShame

My To-Be Read List is a meme hosted by Michelle @Because Reading. 

***

The Girl in the Sea by Lisa Akers
Let Me Go #3
Release Date: November 9, 2015/February 2017
Genre: Adult, Contemporary, Romantic Suspense
Source: I received an ARC from the author. This did not affect my rating and my review is provided voluntarily.
Rating: 3.5 Bookworms
Challenges: #BloggerShame
Goodreads

Synopsis
A Gripping Psychological Romantic Suspense Novel

Book 3 of the Let Me Go Series:
Olivia has a new job; one that unknowingly lands her right smack dab in the middle of a dark, depraved world of prostitution and sex-trafficking.
And to make matters worse, she's finally found someone. She thinks he's everything she wants, but he's strictly an online friend. While he tries to remain hidden behind his avatar, she's at last ready to put her rocky past behind her, if she can convince him to step out from behind the curatin.
But when she invites her anonymous friend to her sister's wedding on the beautiful, beachy, sub-tropical have of Bald Head Island, he says no; he's not ready to reveal his true identity. Instead, along with an unexpected squall that blows in, Grayson--the mysterious brother of the groom--arrives.
Olivia is rightfully wary of Grayson. He's a dangerous, real, flesh and blood man, after all. So, when her own heart beats out a warning tempo, she takes heed. Danger finds her anyway, as the beach is slammed with murderous hurrican winds, and the two are thrust together.
All is not as it seems, and she must dig deep if she is to unmask the mystery of the man, and save herself, by forcing him to confront his own inner storms and secrets, while he battles his two biggest demons: revenge and redemption.
Fiction: Romantic Suspense, Psychological Suspense, Family Saga 
Trigger Warnings: abduction, vague references to prostitution and sex trafficking, violence to women

First of all, my apologies for the late review. This past couple of weeks have been SUPER busy with Sky being home (for only 16 days total) and end of school craziness on top of getting both she and Jax ready to leave for the summer (drum corps again). I haven't had enough time to dedicate to reading and blogging. James and Jax left on Friday morning headed to Arizona and Sky and I leave this coming Tuesday for Oregon. *sniff* It'll just be Berk and I (and James, of course) again this summer.

Second of all, I received this book as an ARC a long time ago...so long ago that the title was different. Akers changed the titles of all the books in the trilogy but I don't know if the content changed or not. So I'm letting you know my review is of the ARC. I'm certain the overall story didn't change though and it was a good one.

What Worked:

• Format
  After having met and coming to adore these 3 sisters, I was grateful that the early portions of the book included their POVs along with Olivia's - who was the MC. We also got Grayson's POV - the other MC - and that not only enhanced his character but also amped the suspense.
• Story
  While Akers has always tackled difficult subject matter - abuse, PTSD - she incorporated a relevant subject in this story...human trafficking. I'm excited over the fact that she apparently did some spinoffs of this series that delve further into this element and I'll pick up those but in The Girl in the Sea, I admired the fact she didn't stray too far from her "roots" so to speak, focusing on the themes she's made the heart of this trilogy - survival, redemption, forgiveness, and strong familial bonds. Those are the things that kept me riveted to her books in the first place. We not only get Olivia's story - seeing how tights she is with her sisters after all they've survived - but we also get Grayson's, who is the brother of Olivia's younger sister's fiance. I like and am invested in all these characters and I appreciate Akers giving us this tight-knit group of "family". I also appreciated the suspense elements - and there were a few. I found myself worrying over how things would unfold and I admit to not having guessed parts of the outcome.

What Could Have Worked Better:

• Suspense
  There were certain areas that felt a little rushed and I feel like would have had more of an impact if things had been fleshed out a little more.

The Girl in the Sea was a good read and I'm kicking myself for having let this languish for so long. I will be looking into more from Akers for certain. I want to add that I'm rather certain, having looked at the difference in page count from the original publishing to the current one, that Akers did flesh out the areas I felt needed fleshing out. I'll have to see about getting an updated version. :)

Release Day Review ~ Passion Rising ~ JA Huss & Johnathan McClain (@JAHuss, @MisterJMcClain) #2018NewRelease

Passion Rising by JA Huss & Johnathan McClain
Original Sin Series #4
Release Date: May 8, 2018
Genre: Adult, Contemporary Romance, Romantic Suspense
Source: I received an eARC from the authors. This did not affect my rating and I voluntarily provided a review.
Rating: 4 Bookworms
Challenges: #2018NewRelease
Goodreads ~ Amazon

Synopsis
Old demons are back.

Maddie's dealing with the fallout of her choices. Safety and happiness are relative, elusive things she's desperate to have. But they will forever remain out of reach until the demons of her past are laid to rest.

Tyler's mistakes resurface to haunt him and he's just beginning to understand that money can't fix a broken relationship. He must open his heart and search for answers he'd rather not find.

She wants peace in a world made of chaos. 

He wants to rid himself of a lifetime of guilt.

They're soul mates, but that's no guarantee.

They'll need to rely on each other to find their happily ever after.

Because the fight never ends - it just gets easier with someone at your side.

Wow. Passion Rising was honestly the perfect ending for this series as well as the perfect way to wrap up Huss & McClain's first foray into being writing partners.

Passion Rising did a one-eighty and went from being more action to more...cerebral. And that wasn't a bad thing. At least not for me. It made me stop and think - really examine the story as a whole. And I appreciated that. Maddie and Tyler have been through so much in their young lives. Things that would have broken lesser individuals. But while they were both damaged, the each continued getting up each day, putting one foot in front of the other because they felt there had to be something more. They've been through quite a lot since they reconnected as well. They were both in very dark places and I don't know why they had to experience even more "bad" together except to say that it couldn't have worked in any other way. They've endured tragedy before but in experiencing it together they realized that together is better...or at least makes handling it easier. And in each other - or maybe simply with each other - they found what they needed to fill in the cracks of their damaged selves and they maybe, just might have found purpose...which is something I think we all long for.

See? Cerebral. But don't worry. It wasn't all contemplating life's purpose, love, etc. There was an injection of suspense as well as plenty of steam. But again, Passion Rising made me take a stap back and look at the entire picture of Maddie and Tyler's story...put all the pieces together...and I was just pleased as punch with how it all came together.

As a sort of an aside, going into this book as a longtime fan of Huss, I think I had certain preconceived notions of what I'd get from this series despite her partnering with McClain. Passion Rising pushed home the point that this series is not a Huss book, it's a Huss-McClain book and therefore I got something a little different. And I must admit to enjoying the experience. I look forward to seeing what these two come up with next.

Review ~ Shameless ~ Lisa Renee Jones #ShelfLove

Shameless by Lisa Renee Jones
White Lies Duet #2
Release Date: July 11, 2017
Genre: Adult, Contemporary Romance, Romantic Suspense
Source: Purchased on Kindle
Rating: 4 Bookworms
Challenges: #ShelfLove, #TravelingtotheTerminus
Goodreads

Synopsis
Nick "Tiger" Rogers, sought out Faith Winter with revenge as his agenda. He made her his obsession. He seduced her. He made her want him. He made her trust him. And then he trusted her. He wanted her. He loved her.
But now, the lies will be exposed, the truth revealed.
Hearts will be broken. Lives shattered.
Nick. Faith.
The truth. The passion.
The SHAMELESS obsession.

This final installment in the White Lies Duet was exciting, suspenseful, and steamy...things LRJ excels at! =) The reveal wasn't quite what I was expecting but I still enjoyed Faith and Nick's story.

Shameless picks up where Provocative left off with Nick trying to unravel the connection between his father and Faith's mother, Faith trying to hang on to the winery while also focusing on her painting, and both Nick and Faith trying to earn and give the trust needed to build a lasting relationship. Add to that the possible danger posed by whomever is trying to push Faith out of the winery and you can see where suspense and excitement abound!

My favorite part was watching as the romance blossomed between Nick and Faith though. They each fell pretty quickly and certainly weren't planning on it. But they each had some baggage to attend to in order to reach the place they were headed. Nick had the hardest time since he was asking Faith for trust and honesty while keeping a secret from her. Granted it was necessary but he knew once he revealed it, it might cause irrevocable damage. Faith didn't want to give up control and that, of course, caused many sparks since Nick is an alpha male. I was grateful for the dual POV because it allowed me to be privy to the thoughts of both Faith and Nick and getting Nick's thoughts was often illuminating. And, of course, there's the steam factor. LRJ writes some fabulous steam but also balances it with a meaty story. 

My second favorite thing was the art. LRJ wonderfully conveyed the detail, color, etc., of the art - both Faith's and Chris's. That I got to spend some time with Chris and Sara (from the Inside Out series) was also a bonus. 

The reveal was the only thing that didn't make me squee. I was expecting more I guess and it all was revealed rather quickly and it fizzled a little. Overall though, I was wholly satisfied with Shameless. And I'm trying to figure out how to incorporate more LRJ into my reading diet. :)

Release Day Review ~ Flesh into Fire ~ JA Huss & Johnathan McClain (@JAHuss @MisterJMcClain) #2018NewRelease

Flesh into Fire by JA Huss & Johnathan McClain
Original Sin Series #3
Release Date: April 17, 2018
Genre: Adult, Contemporary Romance, Romantic Suspense
Source: I received an eARC from the author. This did not affect my rating and I voluntarily provided a review.
Rating: 4 Bookworms
Challenges: #2018NewRelease
Goodreads ~ Amazon

Synopsis
Payback is owed.

And Maddie Clayton is going to collect. This time Carlos and Logan have gone too far. People are dead, lives have been changed, and she's had enough. Plus, she's got the Devil on her side, so when an enemy turns into a friend with an idea of how to take Carlos down, she's in.

Tyler Morgan has been fighting back his whole adult life. He's ready for anything when it comes to payback. But endangering Maddie can't be part of the deal. Unfortunately for him, once Maddie gets an idea in her head, there's no stopping her.

Her debt has been paid in blood and she wants revenge.

His fight is still there, but now he's got more at stake than himself.

The end is coming.

But even if they win against Carlos, they can still lose each other.

Flesh into Fire reignited my interest in Maddie and Tyler's story. I felt like there was quite a bit of character growth on both Maddie's and Tyler's parts and there was more action and, um, less sex in this installment. The plot moved forward although I still have no idea where Huss & McClain are going with this story. But I'm once again delighted to be on the ride. Here are a few highlights and observations:

• I found it interesting that Tyler always saw Maddie as his angel - even dreaming of her in this way and how she's letting her "devil" rule. Because of him? Or has Maddie always been this way? I think the dreams are important...I just can't figure out how. LOL
• Of course there would be a curve ball I never saw coming which changed the trajectory of the story - not that I'd figured out the trajectory but I feel certain this curve ball changed it.
• There's a new catch phrase in use in this installment and I'm not really a fan. It wasn't used in the earlier installments and now everyone is saying it. *frowns*
• When we're in Tyler and Maddie's heads, their voices are distinct but sometimes in the dialog they sound very similar. It kinda took me out of the story when I'd be reading Maddie saying something and it sounded so much like Tyler that I had to double-check who was speaking.

At times I wanted to shake Maddie and Tyler for their decisions and there were times when I was rolling my eyes at the over-the-top-ness in certain situations. The twists in the plot though made things exciting and I'm going to mention again the character growth because I *liked* it. Both Maddie and Tyler had some very insightful moments where they realized some profound things about themselves and each other as well as themselves as a couple. I'm still speculation as to where they're headed - I really have no clue. But Flesh into Fire had more action, more excitement, more humor, and *ahem* the character growth so I'm thrilled to learn where Maddie and Tyler are going and I'm grateful I only have a few more weeks til I find out.

New Release Review ~ Angels Fall ~ JA Huss & Johnathan McClain (@JAHuss @MisterJMcClain ) #2018NewRelease

Angels Fall by JA Huss & Johnathan McClain
Original Sin Series #2
Release Date: March 27, 2018
Genre: Adult, Contemporary Romance, Romantic Suspense
Source: I received an eARC from the author. This did not affect my rating and I voluntarily provided a review.
Rating: 3.5 Bookworms
Challenges: #2018NewRelease
Goodreads ~ Amazon


Synopsis
Sometimes angels fall.

Maddie doesn't really owe drug lord, Carlos Castillo, money. So she hadn't taken his threats seriously. Until now. He wants it, whether she owes it or not. And if she doesn't have it in six weeks he's gonna take her as payment instead.

Tyler would save the world if he could. That's a fight that lasts forever. And if there's one thing he's good at, it's fighting. So if Maddie thinks she's gonna deal with an insane drug lord on her own, she's crazier than he is.

She's got a debt she can't pay. He's got more money than he needs.
She's not gonna fall for his charm. He's gonna make sure that happens.

They're destined to be together. Even if Maddie doesn't know it yet. 
Sometimes your soul mate isn't who you'd choose, it's who you need.

Good thing you don't get to choose.

While Angels Fall didn't resonate quite as strongly with me as Sin With Me did, I'm still completely invested in Maddie and Tyler and eager to see where they go from here.

Angels Fall, well I think it suffered a little from that sophomore slump. It did some character building, which was important, but not a lot happened. There was more angst than action in this installment. The angst was courtesy of a very stubborn Maddie and while I appreciate her fierce independence, sometimes it's smarter - proves your intelligence - to ask for and/or accept assistance. She spent a great deal of time digging in her heels and I wanted to shake some sense into her. Tyler spent a great deal of time doing everything he could to earn her trust and that made me fallfor him that much more.

So this time around Huss and McClain pulled me along on Maddie and Tyler's journey and I trust they know where they're going...I just didn't enjoy the ride as much. However...that ending!! OMG!!! It has me chomping at the bit to see what Maddie and Tyler do next. I'm certain there will be more angst, more *ahem* steam, and more action. I'm vibrating in anticipation.

Release Day Review ~ Sin with Me ~ JA Huss & Johnathan McClain (@JAHuss @MisterJMcClain ) #2018NewRelease

Sin with Me by JA Huss & Johnathan McClain
The Original Sin Series #1
Release Date: March 6, 2018
Genre: Adult, Contemporary Romance, Romantic Suspense
Source: I received an eARC from the author. This did not affect my rating and I voluntarily provided a review.
Rating: 5 Bookworms
Challenges: #2018NewRelease
Goodreads ~ Amazon

Sin with Me is the first book in a four-book contemporary romance series by New York Times bestselling author, JA Huss, and veteran actor and writer, Johnathan McClain. Each full-length novel will release three weeks apart starting March 6, 2018.

Synopsis
Two broken people in a city fueled by sin.

Maddie isn't looking to be saved. She knows the only person you can count on is yourself. Her moral compass might not point true North these days - but at least she's still standing.

The Military taught Tyler about loyalty. Being there for your brothers is the only thing that matters - but when it mattered most, he wasn't.

She's got a ticket straight to Hell. He's already been there and back.

Some sins scar your soul so deeply, you'll never be the same.
But this Devil in disguise might just be the angel he needs to forgive himself.

Omigoodness! You know, I've read and reviewed nearly everything Huss has written and it was starting to get difficult to come up with something fresh to say about her work. I mean, she gives good stories...good characters. And then. And then she gives me a break. She decides to collaborate with Johnathan McClain. And y'all. The result is going to have me waxing poetic!

In this first installment in The Original Sin series we're introduced to Maddie (aka Scarlett) and Tyler (aka Ford Aston). As an aside, I loved the nod to Huss' Rook & Ronin series.) Maddie is sort of down on her luck, working as a stripper to make ends meet while trying to her her latest business venture off the ground. Problem is, she's in debt to a kingpin, her strip club boss doesn't like her much, and she has some sort of anniversary looming that she can barely hold herself together just thinking about. Tyler on the other hand, is rich beyond his wildest dreams but is carrying a huge stone around his neck. He seems to believe he gets people killed. In fact, he's been dreaming about his own personal angel. And then he meets her.

Honestly, I don't know all the details of how Huss and McClain went about writing this story from dual POVs but what I do know is that each character has a distinct voice and the story flows together seamlessly. Tyler - he keeps a running dialog in his head and I kinda feel like it might represent what Huss' mind looks like but still... Another thing I know? I'm captivated. I love their separate stories and I adore how their stories converge. I knew the thing they had in common - I don't think it was meant to be a secret - but I was shocked to discover the real reason behind Maddie's fall down the rabbit hole. And I was even more shocked at the reaction both Maddie and Tyler have to the reveal. Add to that the movie references and I have to mention it again - Tyler's internal dialog which is reminiscent of Vince Vaughn's character's rapid-fire speech in the movie Swingers which makes you question his sanity, as well as Maddie's internal dialog where she rationalizes every decision she makes in a clear attempt to prove, if only to herself, she's not crazy - it all made for compelling reading. 

These two have some serious issues. You want to fix them, starting by giving them the hugs they so clearly need. And you want to get to the root of their issues, help them be whole and happy. Because fate certainly seems to be at work here bringing them together. 

Great character development, a solid plot line, and enough little reveals to keep me riveted, Sin with Me has me charmed and anxious for the next installment.

Review ~ Forsaken ~ Lisa Renee Jones #COYER #TravelingtotheTerminus

Forsaken by Lisa Renee Jones
The Secret Life of Amy Benson #3
Release Date: August 18, 2015
Genre: Adult, Contemporary Romance, Romantic Suspense
Source: Library
Rating: 4.5 Bookworms
Challenges: #COYER
Goodreads

Synopsis
In this third book in the sexy, suspenseful "The Secret Life of Amy Bensen" series from New York Times bestselling author Lisa Renee Jones, we meet Amy's brother Chad--and the woman who either loves him or wants him dead.

Six years ago, Chad's hunt for a dangerous treasure turned deadly when his family home was set on fire, his parents killed. Faking his and his sister Amy's death to protect her from further retaliation, he set her up in a new life with a friend's help, letting her believe he'd died.

But now the men who hired Chad to find the treasure have found him, imprisoning and torturing him to learn where it's hidden. A dark-haired beauty named Gia helps him escape, promising him access to his worst enemy. And as he tries to unravel the deep secrets of the past, he starts falling for her...only to discover she's not what she seems.

Unable to trust anyone, Chad focuses on only two things: protecting his sister Amy and getting revenge. Is love even possible in the midst of heartache?

I admit I was worried going into this installment because of the POV change. I needn't have worried though. LRJ pulled me right into the story with a tight grip on my throat.

Forsaken stars Chad, Amy's brother, whom Amy believed was dead. When we meet him, he's being held captive by the very people who've been hunting Amy. Chad may or may not have something these bad people want very badly. He's resigned himself to dying when help arrives in the form of one gorgeous woman.

I quite enjoyed the action and suspense of Forsaken. It was a thrill ride not knowing whom Chad could trust, the revelations of all that'd happened to lead up to Amy's having to be on the run, what'd happened since, and how Gia, Chad's savior, fit into it all.

That LRJ could make me root for Chad after the things he'd gotten into was something but I realized at some point that he'd been just a kid really and had gotten in over his head. Gia, I adored. She's smart, witty, and it was exciting to watch her, as well as Chad, put pieces of the puzzle together and find a way to keep everyone safe.

Forsaken was a thrilling ending to the The Secret Life of Amy Bensen series. I know there's still a novella to read though and I'll make haste in getting to it. :)

My TBR List Review ~ September ~ The Departed ~ Shiloh Walker #MyTBRL #ShelfLove

My To-Be Read List is a meme hosted by Michelle @Because Reading. 


The Departed by Shiloh Walker
The FBI Psychics #2
Release Date: January 3, 2012
Genre: Adult, Romantic Suspense
Source: Purchased paperback
Rating: 4 Bookworms
Challenges: #ShelfLove, #TravelingtotheTerminus
Goodreads

Synopsis
A LIFELONG OBSESSION

FBI Special Agent Taylor Jones has made it his mission to save those in harm's way by any means necessary-including employing psychic agents like Desiree "Dez" Lincoln, who can communicate with the disembodied spirits of the dead. Taylor is haunted by his own ghost, his kid sister, gone missing at age six. For a quarter of a century he has been tortured by her loss and the mystery of her disappearance.

A NIGHT'S INDISCRETION

When Dez is seriously wounded, Taylor can no longer hide his feelings for her. Getting involved could spell disaster for both of them-not to mention those who rely on them for help-but once Dez lays her hands on him, he can't resist the fierce attraction. But after giving in to his desires, Taylor pulls back, and Dez strikes out on her own.

AN INESCAPABLE PASSION

Responding to the call of another anguished spirit, Dez is led to Taylor's old hometown. As the two are forced to come together to save a girl in peril, Dez may be able to help Taylor finally find the answers he's been looking for...

It's been a number of years since I read The Missing, the first book in Walker's FBI Psychics series, but it's a story that's really stuck with me so I was excited The Departed won the vote this month. It's a great sequel and one I was happy to get having met Taylor Jones in The Missing - I wanted to know his story. I admit that I hate that this one has been languishing on my shelf since it released but I'm happy I read it now and that there's more in the series.

Highlights

• Taylor & Dez
  Walker is rather gifted with developing complex characters whom you become very invested in. I mean, Taylor had stuck with me enough that I was thrilled he was getting a book. Taylor, on the surface, seems cold, methodical, completely able to keep his emotions in check. Finding out why he is the way he is was interesting - especially since he was far from emotionless when it came to Dez. Dez is such a compassionate person - which is a good thing considering her gift. She can communicate with the dead, helping them, in whatever way is needed, to find peace so they can move on. 
• The Paranormal Element
  Since I'm a believer in psychic abilities, that Walker created a division within the FBI that uses agents with those gifts to solve crimes is something I find very compelling.
• The Suspense Element
  Honestly, I hadn't figured out the biggest mystery when the reveal occurred. Some things became clear as hints were dropped but Walker kept me riveted. There were a few things left unanswered that I would have liked knowing but overall, the suspense was well done. The way Walker incorporated the paranormal with the suspense made it all the better.
• The Romance Element
  Taylor and Dez have ignored their feelings for one another for awhile so when they let loose, they ignited. It was a rocky road though. Watching Dez stand up to Taylor, enjoying their prickly banter, and seeing Taylor's walls come down...it was good stuff!

Walker does an excellent job of combining some paranormal with gripping suspense and a dash of romance! ;)

Review ~Infinite Possibilities ~ Lisa Renee Jones #COYER

Infinite Possibilities by Lisa Renee Jones
The Secret Life of Amy Benson #2
Release Date: July 7, 2015
Genre: Adult, Contemporary Romance, Romantic Suspense
Source: Library
Rating: 4.5 Bookworms
Challenges: #COYER
Goodreads

Synopsis
Secrets and lies. They are everywhere: haunting her, tormenting her. In the midst of it all, he'd been her escape, her passion. The only person she'd trusted in six years. And then he'd made her doubt that trust, cutting her deeply. But as she'd once told him, she was damaged, not broken. She is ready to fight and not just for survival. She is fighting for the truth and she won't stop until she has it, not even for...him.

I couldn't wait to dive into book #2 of this series but I have to admit to being the slightest bit disappointed. It was only slight though.

Amy, after overhearing something that made her doubt, is on the run again. She wants to get all the answers she needs and deserves once and for all. Liam, however, isn't going to give her up without a fight. Luckily it's not a fight Amy's really interested in taking on because there are a few new players on the field and deciding who to trust - if anyone - is Amy's main goal, especially when it's revealed that something she's believed since she went into hiding may not be true.

Liam, for his part, is determined to show Amy he's the one to trust and put her faith in. He has the resources and connections to help Amy find her answers as well as keep her safe. If he can erase her doubt, that's exactly what he plans to do. 

LRJ delivers another smolderingly hot installment for Amy and Liam coupled with some nail-biting suspense. I was as eager to get answers as Amy was and the revelations made while getting them were shocking. My disappointment came as a result of how long it took for things to develop. Amy and Liam seemed to spin their wheels longer than I'd have liked but once they got traction, the story took off. I was also mildly let down at the ease in which a few things were resolved.

However, I'm chomping at the bit to continue the story!

Review ~ Escaping Reality ~ Lisa Renee Jones #BloggerShame #COYER #ShelfLove

Escaping Reality by Lisa Renee Jones
The Secret Life of Amy Benson #1
Release Date: May 5, 2015
Genre: Adult, Contemporary Romance, Romantic Suspense
Source: I received a complimentary copy from Gallery Books via Netgalley. This did not affect my rating and my review is provided voluntarily.
Rating: 5 Bookworms
Challenges: #BloggerShame, #COYER, #ShelfLove
Goodreads

Synopsis
Infinite possibilities...
Infinite passion...
Infinite danger...

His touch spirals through me, warm and sweet, wicked and hot. I shouldn't trust him. I shouldn't tell him my secrets. But how do I not when he is the reason I breathe? He is what I need.

At the young age of eighteen, tragedy and a dark secret force Lara to flee all she has known and loves to start a new life. Now years later, with a new identity as Amy, she's finally dared to believe she is forgotten--even if she cannot forget. But just when she lets down her guard, the ghosts of her past are quick to punish her, forcing her back on the run.

On a plane, struggling to face the devastation of losing everything again and starting over, Amy meets Liam Stone, a darkly entrancing recluse billionaire, who is also a brilliant, and famous, prodigy architect. A man who knows what he wants and goes after it. And what he wants is Amy. Refusing to take "no" as an answer, he sweeps her into a passionate affair, pushing her to her erotic limits. He wants to possess her. He makes her want to be possessed. Liam demands everything from her, accepting nothing less. But what if she is too devastated by tragedy to know when he wants more than she should give? And what if there is more to Liam that meets the eyes?

Why have I not read all of LRJ? Seriously!! She gives good romantic suspense - or however you want to classify her - and believe me when I tell you, I will be procuring the rest of this Amy Benson series. SOON! *wink*

The title is ironic for Amy since she's not always certain what her reality is...who she is. But I suppose that *is* her reality. She's a strong, capable young woman who's been running and hiding most of her life. She has someone helping her but she doesn't know or doesn't remember who. This latest run, that we witness, brings her into contact with someone she doesn't want to leave. It also has her asking questions and looking for answers.

Liam seems a good guy - genuine and compassionate. But I can't help but wonder about him and his motives. I want to believe in him though. 

I have so many questions - even now as I write this review several days after finishing, I'm wondering did this scene have more significance that I originally though. Is this character someone Amy should consider dangerous? Who is Amy really? And is she going to figure out what's been going on in her life? Who's been pulling her strings?

Escaping Reality was riveting. I couldn't read fast enough. LRJ kept me guessing all the while developing these characters that I'm completely invested in. I can't wait to find out what happens next!