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Tuesday, May 31, 2011

Trace of Fever by Lori Foster

Trace of Fever (Edge of Honor)From Goodreads:
Undercover mercenary Trace Rivers loves the adrenaline rush of a well-planned mission. First he'll earn the trust of corrupt businessman Murray Coburn, then gather the proof he needs to shut down the man's dirty smuggling operation. It's a perfect scheme—until Coburn's long-lost daughter saunters in with her own deadly plan for revenge. 
With a smile like an angel and fire in her eyes, Priscilla Patterson isn't who she seems to be. But neither is the gorgeous bodyguard who ignites all her senses. Joining forces to plot Coburn's downfall, Priss and Trace must fight the undeniable heat between them. For one wrong move, one lingering embrace, will expose them to the wrath of a merciless opponent….
Trace Rivers... oh let me see... alpha male (check), passionate (check), sensitive to other's pain when it was a woman (check), loyal (check), determined to help all victims (check), animal lover (check), very smexy (double check). Oh yes... I do love to check him out. ;D I really did have fun with Trace and enjoyed his brand of smexyness (obviously). As with the first book, When You Dare, Trace is as swoon-worthy as Dare and you also get a bit more of a glance into their world and how all the men work together. We also get introduced to Jackson who we will see in the next and last installment, Savor the Danger which will be released next month.

I do also think I enjoyed Priscilla a bit more than I did Molly in the first book. She was more connected to her feelings and a bit more snarky. The story line made more sense and there were some very funny scenes in this book. Of course there is still the fast love at first lust/love as there was in the first book, but it works for these two as intense danger made them fall quickly. At least Priscilla does question falling in love so quickly in herself as well as in Trace, which shows she is sharp of wit. 

Any more than that I will not say... *evil laugh* (oh, don't even try to look surprised!). I will say, though that I give this story 4 stars. And although I am quite skeptical about the next book (lets just say Jackson has a thing or two to prove to me yet), I am all ready for my next adventure with these smexy men! Oh and get this book today! It is the book's birthday! Go celebrate with Trace! :D


I received this ARC for review and no compensation for my review was given.

Books in this Series:

Oh this is such a good trailer... here it is again... 

Monday, May 30, 2011

Help!

Okay, I have a ton of review books and I don't think I can actually get through them without some help. I didn't think I would do this... but...

If you want to help me review some books, I am looking for someone who enjoys reading all types of  books, but mostly paranormal/ urban fantasy books. Most likely all of these will be independent authors in an ebook format. I am hoping for someone who can also do reviews on Goodreads and Amazon.com. You can have your own blog and post the same reviews at your blog... or is someone who doesn't have nor want to do a blog at all!

The reason I am sending out most of my independent authors out for others to review is simply this: no postal cost since they come in ebook format. Therefore anyone can apply.. it's international! I personally like all types of books because you can really find some gems out there. That is fun to do. However, time is kicking my rather large butt and I'd really like to help out some of these authors... so I need help! 

If interested please fill out the form below:

Edit: Me thinks I have a couple of kitties willing to help in the kitchen! :) Thanks to everyone!
I'm hoping someone will feel this way... ;)

Sunday, May 29, 2011

We All Fall Down by Nic Sheff

We All Fall Down: Living with AddictionFrom Goodreads:
In his bestselling memoir Tweak, Nic Sheff took readers on an emotionally gripping roller-coaster ride through his days as a crystal meth and heroin addict. Now in this powerful follow-up about his continued efforts to stay clean, Nic writes candidly about eye-opening stays at rehab centers, devastating relapses, and hard-won realizations about what it means to be a young person living with addiction.
Nic Sheff and his father, David Sheff, captured a nation of readers with their bestselling memoirs Tweak and Beautiful Boy. Those books explore teen drug addiction from two different points of view: a son's and a father's. Nic currently lives in Los Angeles, California.
 This book is a candid telling of what Nic Sheff did to try and stay sober. The hard road he took and about who helped and who became co-dependants with him. I was curious about this world as I kid to my mother that I would be the world's worst addict. I hate taking pills, even those that help me like my migraine medication. Personally, I hate that feeling of being out of control or being controlled by a substance, so this world is foreign to me. Yes, I have actually met addicts, even gone to school with some. The destruction I witness was one of an outsider but I could still see the path of destruction addiction wrought, just like a tornado. Now, I am sensitive to those that have lost to the recent tornadoes, but I have seen that same haunting look in loved ones who were left behind, hence the parallel.

This book opens the doors to what it might be like as an addict. We hear Nic's addict speak, justifications to others and especially himself as he knows the road he is on will lead back to addiction. We see programs that just didn't work for him. This part actually upset me. It seemed to me that the individual was ignored and that confusing messages were being played at the center he was trying to get sober. It actually made him a better con artist rather than gave him building blocks to work on to stay in sobriety. The counsellor's ego and their ill equipped programs were more important than getting at root problems and making sure there was nothing more chemically related going on within his brain. And as he points out 12 step programs aren't for everyone. However, what is great about Nic, is that he didn't like the 12 step program but still got use out of it. He found a sober community in which he could relate. So, only in that aspect, albeit an important one, he found solace in that program. 

This book is slated for the YA crowd. I think that is important and it makes sense. It is a book that may relate to those just starting on their addiction journey. Perhaps they will find something that speaks to an at risk group and instead of turning to drugs, they can seek out better ways to mature normally instead of stunting their emotional growth. For example, addicts often feel that they are too sensitive for the world. Perhaps that is true, but it is also more true that they do not have the proper coping skills to deal with these strong emotions. So, by saying that I feel this is also important one for parents to read this as well, so they can have a grasp at what may be going on, get help themselves, and direct behavior appropriately without freaking out. 

I give this book 3 stars. It is a hard book to read because you see him going down the same path over and over. However, that is the beauty in the book as well. It is a warning for kids to find out who they really are and find a community to support them even if their family doesn't. You can't do that numb.

I received this book from the publisher and no compensation for my review was given.

Saturday, May 28, 2011

Thirteen Days to Midnight by Patrick Carman

Thirteen Days to MidnightFrom Goodreads:
You are indestructible. These are the words that transfer an astonishing power to Jacob Fielding... and it changes everything. After all, there's something addictive about testing the limits of fear, experiencing the thrill of walking through fire, or saving your friend from a beating in front of the whole school. 
Then Ophelia James, the beautiful and daring new girl in town, suggests that they use the power to do good, to save others at risk of death. But with every heroic act, the power grows into the specter of a curse. How to decide who lives and who dies? And why does darkness seem to be chasing them? Jacob only has thirteen days to figure out how to harness this terrifying power... and the answer is chilling: What if he has to kill the one he loves to save her? 
In the context of a dark, unconventional superhero story, Patrick Carman has envisioned a high concept tale of intrigue, romance, friendship and adventure that probes deep into what teens face as they enter young adult years: navigating increasingly complex choices with greater consequences, as well as the gray areas blurring the definitions of right and wrong.
The question is asked at the beginning of the book and at the end of the book: "If you could have only one superpower what would it be?" Well, Jacob doesn't get a choice of power, it was thrust upon him one day when it saved his life. His only source of information, Mr. Fielding, gone at the same time it happened. Actually, Jacob really doesn't know what really happened... IF anything really happened, but he does know that he is alive when he should be dead. However, when he meets Ophelia, or Oh, his world changes and he finds out the power he was given is real.

This book is an interesting exploration of trying to figure out the limits of this power as well as the consequences. I enjoyed Jacob who is very grounded and also extremely smart. He even eventually figures out there must be consequences even though he can't quite see what they are. He knows that whatever we do have consequences. His friends are also great characters. Milo is a true friend. And even though I began not to like Oh at all for a while in the story, as she became totally obsessed with the power, I do forgive her in the end. Her part in the story becomes crystal clear; in fact the whole adventure comes together and makes total sense.

I give this book 4 stars and I don't want to say more about the book or I will spoil things for you. *bad giggle* ( I couldn't bring myself to be totally evil...lol). I do recommend this book to anyone who wants a different type of YA book with good characters. I enjoyed this superpower and how the kids dealt with the huge responsibility.

So... my question to you... "If you could have only one superpower what would it be?" ;)

I was given this book by the publisher for review and no compensation was given.

Thirteen Days to Midnight Website
The video below is the author, Patrick Carman, talking a bit about the book:

Friday, May 27, 2011

Relicmaster by Catherine Fisher

The Dark City #1 (Relic Master)From Goodreads:
Welcome to Anara, a world mysteriously crumbling to devastation, where nothing is what it seems: Ancient relics emit technologically advanced powers, members of the old Order are hunted by the governing Watch yet revered by the people, and the great energy that connects all seems to also be destroying all. The only hope for the world lies in Galen, a man of the old Order and a Keeper of relics, and his sixteen-year-old apprentice, Raffi. They know of a secret relic with great power that has been hidden for centuries. As they search for it, they will be tested beyond their limits. For there are monsters; some human, some not; that also want the relic's power and will stop at nothing to get it.
 This is a fantasy book for the YA crowd. One I would have loved as a kid and enjoyed as an adult. As with some fantasy books we are dropped right in the middle of what is going on, so it took me a couple of chapters to really get into the story line. Once I did, I really enjoyed the adventure with Galen and Raffi and eventually a character named Careys. I do admit once she showed up, the adventure really took off for me.

Besides the characters the world was very interesting. What were these relics that were left from the "Makers"? Was it from outerspace? Was it from an alternate dimension? As soon as some of these questions seemed answered, it was replaced with the same ones soon after. Perhaps it is a blend of both or neither. Perhaps they developed in other ways that was unexpected? Since this one was the first in a series, I didn't expect them to be fully answered even if I hoped they would. We won't know until the adventure continues and we follow Galen and Raffi to other parts of Anara and gather more clues along the way. Now, don't let what I just said deter you from reading this book. It isn't a cliffhanger but, I admit, it isn't finished either. It is a great start to a fun fantasy adventure. I give this book 3 1/2 stars and I can't wait for the next installment.

I received this book from LibraryThings Early Reviewer's program and Dial Publishing. No compensation for my review was given.


LibraryThing Early Reviewers

Thursday, May 26, 2011

Enclave by Ann Aguirre

EnclaveFrom Goodreads:
WELCOME TO THE APOCALYPSE  
In Deuce’s world, people earn the right to a name only if they survive their first fifteen years. By that point, each unnamed ‘brat’ has trained into one of three groups–Breeders, Builders, or Hunters, identifiable by the number of scars they bear on their arms. Deuce has wanted to be a Huntress for as long as she can remember.  
As a Huntress, her purpose is clear—to brave the dangerous tunnels outside the enclave and bring back meat to feed the group while evading ferocious monsters known as Freaks. She’s worked toward this goal her whole life, and nothing’s going to stop her, not even a beautiful, brooding Hunter named Fade. When the mysterious boy becomes her partner, Deuce’s troubles are just beginning.  
Down below, deviation from the rules is punished swiftly and harshly, and Fade doesn’t like following orders. At first she thinks he’s crazy, but as death stalks their sanctuary, and it becomes clear the elders don’t always know best, Deuce wonders if Fade might be telling the truth. Her partner confuses her; she’s never known a boy like him before, as prone to touching her gently as using his knives with feral grace.  
As Deuce’s perception shifts, so does the balance in the constant battle for survival. The mindless Freaks, once considered a threat only due to their sheer numbers, show signs of cunning and strategy… but the elders refuse to heed any warnings. Despite imminent disaster, the enclave puts their faith in strictures and sacrifice instead. No matter how she tries, Deuce cannot stem the dark tide that carries her far from the only world she’s ever known.
Like most of you, I have heard so much about this book I was itching to get to it. I had hives waiting for my chance to review it. *scratches* I finally received it and cracked it open almost immediately!  Anyhoo... I will admit that it took me a while to get into the world that was created here. When Fade and Deuce were paired, I no longer had that problem. The world and the characters took off for me. I really (I hate to say this...) enjoyed the world that was utterly controlled by the "elders" of the enclave. People who rarely saw past their 20s. Everything was for the good of the Enclave so no one was allowed to question it. In one way you really could understand their thinking. In another, I know I wouldn't want to have to live in that fashion. As assignments are given, there is opportunity for Deuce, with Fade's encouragement, to see that things aren't as simple as they seem. Her world may not be all black and white after all. She begins to see the world slightly more like we might as outsiders. This is terrifying for Deuce, but she does not back away from the fear.

As things progress, Fade and Deuce are exiled to the surface which means certain death. Even though this world is extremely frightening (especially to Deuce who has never encountered anything like it) they are able to win a couple of friends and begin to look for true safety. However, Deuce is not convinced such a place exists, but is willing to give it a try. The rest of the story is left for you to uncover, but I will say one last thing... the ending is not as fulfilling as you might hope. There are questions that are left with out a conclusion. So therefore... I will *evil laugh* at myself. *sigh*

There are a few things I do feel I need to point out. Despite my love of the world and Deuce, I was not all that thrilled with some of the men in this story. Fade's character seemed oddly unbalanced. When someone basically blacks out when fighting and cannot tell the difference from a spar and the real fight, they aren't as connected to their feelings as Fade seemed to be. Granted I do believe he would be sensitive, but I don't think he would have expressed himself that well nor do I think he would be that calm. People like that tend to be quite angry. Also, we meet a character named Stalker. He was a leader but decided to travel with the party as an equal. His arrogance as a leader was absolute. I do not feel that he would as easily give up that power, even to save himself. True, it is another world than we currently live in, but I still feel that people would still be somewhat the same especially when time is spent surviving and not developing character. Despite these things I found incongruous, I still really enjoyed this book. I give it 3 stars and recommend it to anyone who enjoys zombie/dystopian books.

I was given this ARC as a part of the Book it Forward ARC tours and no compensation for my review was given.

Tuesday, May 24, 2011

Splash into Summer Giveaway Hop

Ready to splash into summer?

Perhaps these ARCs will help...
Extraordinary
Extraordinary by Nancy Werlin
Glimmerglass (Faeriewalker, Book 1)
Glimmerglass by Jenna Black
The Girl Who Became a Beatle
The Girl Who Became a Beatle by Greg Taylor

Remember all 3 are ARCs and so cannot be resold.
Sorry, it's US only this time...
Just fill out the form below to enter to win all 3:

Giveaway is over! Thanks for playing!

Just remember what will happen if you don't properly prepare..
You don't want to end up like this:
To help you prepare further... go HERE to find the rest of the giveaways!
Good Luck!
Edit: since Google is being a bit wonky... if you would like to follow and can't find the gfc widget, just go to the top of the page and follow there. *shrugs* I don't know what is wrong. Maybe they missed their rubber ducky!

Wrapped by Jennifer Bradbury

WrappedFrom Goodreads:
Agnes Wilkins is standing in front of an Egyptian mummy, about to make the first cut into the wrappings, about to unlock ancient (and not-so-ancient) history. 
Maybe you think this girl is wearing a pith helmet with antique dust swirling around her. 
Maybe you think she is a young Egyptologist who has arrived in Cairo on camelback. 
Maybe she would like to think that too. Agnes Wilkins dreams of adventures that reach beyond the garden walls, but reality for a seventeen-year-old debutante in 1815 London does not allow for camels—or dust, even. No, Agnes can only see a mummy when she is wearing a new silk gown and standing on the verdant lawns of Lord Showalter’s estate, with chaperones fussing about and strolling sitar players straining to create an exotic “atmosphere” for the first party of the season. An unwrapping. 
This is the start of it all, Agnes’s debut season, the pretty girl parade that offers only ever-shrinking options: home, husband, and high society. It’s also the start of something else, because the mummy Agnes unwraps isn’t just a mummy. It’s a host for a secret that could unravel a new destiny—unleashing mystery, an international intrigue, and possibly a curse in the bargain. 
Get wrapped up in the adventure . . . but keep your wits about you, dear Agnes.
This book is a fun YA historical romantic adventure. The mystery is easy to solve but it is still fun to ride along with Agnes and Caedmon to figure out how all the puzzle pieces fit together. It is set in the time of England's regency period during the time of a Napoleonic threat. Agnes is born of privilege, but because of her father's station and love she is indulged in learning and mastered 10 languages. She is enthralled with A Lady's books (Jane Austin) and frequently quotes them as situations arise. Because of these things, Agnes is want of more than just a husband; she wants a life.

She is pursued by Lord Showalter, the most eligible and wanted bachelor of London. Agnes, of course, finds him dull and is drawn to the one that challenges her on the intellectual, emotional and physical levels. The one man she cannot have due to her station; the one more handsome than Mr. Darcy would be himself, Caedmon. Despite this obstacle, they work together to solve a mystery Agnes stumbled upon. One that may save England from France.

I give this fun book 4 stars. I recommend it to anyone who loves regency romances, Jane Austin, and a bit of Egyptology and history thrown together. It might be predictable, but it still doesn't take away from a fun bit of YA read. It is to be published tomorrow, May 24th.

I received this eGalley from the publisher and no compensation for my review was given.

Monday, May 23, 2011

Scandal in Scotland by Karen Hawkins

Scandal in ScotlandFrom Simon and Schuster:
New York Times bestselling author Karen Hawkins spins an unforgettable tale of a captivating beauty with a secret, a dashing sea captain on a treacherous mission—and the priceless artifact that seals their destiny. 
A DESPERATE BEAUTY 
Despite fame and countless admirers, actress Marcail Beauchamp has never forgotten William Hurst, the audacious seafarer she once loved . . . and lost. Now, forced by a mysterious blackmailer who threatens her family, she must steal an ancient onyx box from the one man she's vowed never to see again. 
A BOLD ADVENTURER 
To save his brother from a ruthless abductor, William must deliver the artifact as ransom. He's stunned when Marcail, more lovely than ever, suddenly appears on his ship. But when she drugs him and steals the box, his fury knows no bounds. 
THE TREASURE EVERYONE WANTS 
William pursues Marcail, but too late: she has already delivered the box. The estranged lovers realize they must work together—both to regain the artifact that could mean life or death to his family and to destroy the mysterious blackmailer's power over her family. Thus begins a high-stakes quest through the reaches of Scotland, a quest that stirs up long-forgotten memories and an unquenchable passion. . . . 
One Night in Scotland (Hurst Amulet)This is #2 in the Hurst Amulet series. And before you *gasp* and wonder if I did it again and read in the middle... AHA! I did NOT! :D My review of  One Night in Scotland proves that I read #1 in the series... first! O.o So, now that you have calmed down or sat back up from fainting... let me review the rest of this book... ;)

I did have fun with this historical romance. William is another of the Hurst brothers and the amulet is finally safely in William's hands ready to be sent back to Egypt to free their brother (the story starts in the first novel and is best to read it first). He meets an old flame who broke his heart and she steals the amulet to satisfy a blackmailer. We soon find that Marcail is not the brazen horrible beauty she seems to be, but also someone who is desperately trying to save her family from ruin and left William for the same reasons. The box is stolen before the truth comes out, but William is still willing to find out who her blackmailer is as well as gaining the stolen item back.

Of course I'm not going to spoil how these turns of event play out *evil laugh* but I will say that the Hurst amulet itself has yet to reveal all it's secrets. And while I did like Marcail in the end, I still can't say I fully identified with her either. I did enjoy William's part and wouldn't mind adding a handsome captain  like him to my man harem. *sigh*

I give this book 3 1/2 stars. I would suggest reading the first book first *gasp* so you can get the total grasp of what the amulet means. The next book involves the brother, Robert, and I think that one is going to be a wild ride. Especially when it seems his intended is a thief and con artist.

I was given this ebook from the publisher and no compensation for my review was given.


Sunday, May 22, 2011

Paw Hide Puzzle Dog Toy by Kyjen

The description of the toys from the Kyjen site:
Introducing a new toy that occupies and challenges dogs’ cognitive skills. These toys provide enrichment (described below) for your own dogs. As descendants of wolves, most dogs instinctively enjoy the challenge of hunting and seeking out the hidden food in our Puzzle Toys. It keeps your pets healthy, happy and engaged! All games include instructions and tips.  
Enrichment Programs These programs have been implemented in zoos throughout the world. Among the methods used to create stimulating environments are food puzzles that encourage animals to investigate and interact with their surroundings. These puzzles allow them to forage for food in ways that come naturally in the wild. This keeps them actively engaged in their zoo-based environments.

This is one of 3 different types of puzzle toys by Kyjen I chose to review, mostly because I was curious as to how my dogs would respond. I've done the buster cube (which dispenses treats when rolled across a floor... it's quite noisy). I thought that my malamute would take on this challenge and conquer it in no time. I mean she has opened drawers and gotten into areas which I thought was safe from prying paws. However, she didn't see it as a challenge and ignored the toy. I'm guessing it is because it wasn't at all forbidden. I might have to think about that.

However, my doberman and my mom's sheltie were extremely interested in the toy. Plus it was quite fun watching them try to figure it out. Even trying to convince me to go over and open it up for them. Heh... little snots. ;) Anyway... my doberman only took a few tries and got it out... even flipping one of the cups upsidedown into another empty space (thought that was a neat trick.. lol). He doesn't have it mastered and I picked it up before he does. Instead of wanting to see how fast he does it, I want to preserve the mystery as long as I can so he can continue to think instead of easily open it. I consider this toy a success. As for my mom's sheltie... she hasn't gotten it yet, but she will. Right now she has a tumor (benign) on one side of her mouth that will be removed so she needed help in getting it, but I have no reservations that she will be a pro once she can fully use her mouth on that toy.

My only warning is for those in multi-dog homes. You might consider doing this on an individual basis. The malamute and the doberman, both became a bit possessive of the toy. I recognized the body language and picked it up so no fight would happen. My warning should apply even if they are friendly to each other. The doberman and malamute often eat in close proximity of each other. They exchange treats and toys and don't fight at all. So, I was surprised when this happened. I think it is because it is a hidden treat they both know was there and couldn't divide it up in the normal way. Also, if you have a chewer like I do, never leave it unattended.

Edit:
My doberman asked for the toy soon after I wrote out this review. I gave it to him and he mastered it in a few minutes (there goes the mystery... lol). At one time he took out a cup and moved away from the toy to play with the cup. The exposed treat was left unattended, so the sheltie went over and ate it. He did this one more time while I laughed. I take it back... the doberman is not the master... the sheltie is! I mean, she didn't even have to work for it and I think he is now her minion. lol

You can buy this as well as 2 other type of puzzle toys at Kyjen, Amazon and most places where they sell dog toys. I also found it discounted (w/free shipping in the US) here:






I received this dog toy from Kyjen as part of their dog toy testing and review program and was not compensated for my review in any way.

Saturday, May 21, 2011

On My Wishlist...


Darker Still by Leanna Renee Hieber
tbp: 11/1/2011
From Goodreads:
The shadows deepen on the gaslit streets of New York City in the year 1880. Curses and spirits, demons and rituals, blood and faith, love and danger; such is the stuff of Magic Most Foul. Find your voice... or else.

 Shaedes of Gray by Amanda Bonilla
tbp: Dec. 2011
From Goodreads:
“I’d learned the hard way that love is nothing more than the sharpest blade, and it can easily be turned against you. I refused to let anyone have that kind of power over me ever again.”  
In the shadows of the night, Darian has lived alone for almost a century. Made and abandoned by her former love, Darian is the last of her kind—an immortal Shaede who can slip into darkness as easily as breathing. With no one else to rely on, she has taught herself how to survive, using her unique skills to become a deadly assassin.  
Darian finds herself struggling to keep her employer Tyler at arm’s length, especially since his seductive smile makes her want to break her rules about love. The work he offers is necessary to protect the innocent—and a welcome distraction. But when Darian’s next mark turns out to be Xander Peck, King of the Shaede Nation, her whole worldview is thrown into question. Darian begins to wonder if she’s taken on more than her conscience will allow, but a good assassin never leaves a job unfinished...
So, what is on your wishlist this week? 

Friday, May 20, 2011

When You Dare by Lori Foster

When You Dare (Men Who Walk the Edge of Honor)From Goodreads:
The tougher they are, the harder they fall…  
Professional mercenary Dare Macintosh lives by one hard and fast rule: business should never be personal. If a cause appeals to him and the price is right, he'll take the mission he's offered. But then the lovely Molly Alexander asks him to help her track down the men who'd had her kidnapped—and for the first time, Dare's tempted to combine work with pleasure.  
Fiercely independent, Molly vows to trust no one until she's uncovered the truth. Could the enemy be her powerful, estranged father? The ex-fiancĂ© who still holds a grudge? Or the not-so-shy fan of her bestselling novels? As the danger heats up around them, the only anchor Molly has is Dare himself. But what she feels for him just might be the most frightening thing of all…
Hm... let me see...one hot smexy alpha male with feelings of responsibility to anyone he deems smaller, weaker, and/or less intelligent than he. Considering he is exceptionally good at his protection job and can solve mysteries while at it; I would say he feels responsible for the whole of humanity. Add in a huge wallop of smart, independent woman who is kidnapped but refuses to be a victim. Plus don't forget the dash of a fun gay best friend and two lovable labs Dare calls "his girls" and you come up with a delicious recipe for a romantic suspense mystery that is fun to read. Okay, so I don't cook (obviously) but I think I still make the point that this is a delicious romance with action. :)

Those disappointed in the quickie romance will enjoy this story. In fact, I would say that it is more about Dare's character and how he feels about Molly and his job. We really get to know his sensitive side even though there is no denying he is a kick-ass alpha male. We also really get to know Molly; perhaps in a lesser way, but in no way less important. We understand what happened in her background to make her so strong and independent. Sometimes I admit I wanted a little more in honest reaction from her, but at the same time I think it might have gotten in the way of the story if not done well. However, there is the mystery to be solved and her protection to be taken care of, but really that part becomes more background and the reason we get to know these characters so intimately.

I give this book 4 stars. Although there is action and mystery, it really is a character book where the romance ends in a HEA.

I was given this ARC for an honest review and no compensation was given.