Body Heat by Brenda Novak

Title: Body Heat
Author: Brenda Novak
Rating: 4.5 Stars
 

Synopsis: A serial killer is on the loose in the Arizona Desert and is targeting Illegal Immigrants. New Bordertown police chief, Sophia St. Claire fears that she is in over her head but help soon arrives in the form of Roderick Guerrero, Ex-Navy SEAL and bastard son of one of the town's wealthiest ranchers. Can Sophia and Rod get past their animosity for one another in order to catch a malicious killer?

Review: Intense and exciting from the very first page.

The characterization in this book is exceptional. Each and every person in the small town from the hero and heroine to the lowliest deputy and the town prostitute are well written and no one is superfluous. 

The balance between the romance and the suspense is excellent. Rod and Sophie have incredible chemistry and their lively banter is highly entertaining. Despite her inexperience with law enforcement, Sophie is always in control and never falls into the TSTL category. Rod, an Ex-Navy SEAL, is smokin' and his protective streak is so endearing.

The mystery is a compelling amalgamation of subplots that are cleverly interwoven. While they do have the potential to become confusing, they, nevertheless, come together quite seamlessly and it is easy to keep track of the twists and turns.

Overall, a very enjoyable romantic suspense read and I look forward to reading the final installment in the trilogy.

Read More

Midnight Secrets by Ella Grace

Title: Midnight Secrets
Author: Ella Grace
Rating: 4 Stars


Synopsis: Who says you can't go home again? Savannah Wilde travels back home to Midnight, Alabama to pack up her grandfather's house and must confront not only the man who broke her heart but the specter of her parents' murder as someone is not pleased about Savannah's return.

Review: Although enjoyable, Midnight Secrets reads like a contemporary romance with a little mystery and suspense tacked on.

Zach and Savannah are an engaging couple with sizzling chemistry and their early romance is sweet and endearing. This is the point, however, where things takes a negative turn as each character keeps a secret that contributes to the wedge between them both past and present. There is much repetitive procrastination in their desire to share but it takes forever for the details to emerge, and neither secret is particularly dramatic. In fact, they only serve to highlight just how unnecessary and silly Zach and Savannah's separation really was - why didn't they just talk to each other?

The suspense plot moves along rapidly and the murder mystery has a strong foundation. That said, the investigative techniques are inadequate and implausible, the suspect pool is underdeveloped and the clues to the killer's identity are virtually non-existent.

On a more positive note, the small town vibe is fantastic and Grace has managed to capture all the nuances of a tightly knit southern community where neighbors share their lives but still waters run deep. The secondary cast has potential although the triplets' relationship is a little too saccharine for my tastes - three girls living under one roof and the NEVER argue - no way!

In sum, a worthy read for fans of sexy southern heroes and sweet sultry heroines just don't expect too much from the tension or suspense.

Read More

Against the Law by Kat Martin

Title: Against the Law
Author: Kat Martin
Rating: 3 Stars


Synopsis: Determined to trace the baby girl her sister gave up for adoption. Lark Delaney seeks the help of P.I. Devlin Raines. However, what initially begins as a routine investigation turns into a dangerous adventure when the girl's parents are killed and she is kidnapped. 

Review: Similar to the first two books in the series, the basic premise has potential but the execution is poor with overly descriptive and redundant scenes.

Lark and Dev have tangible chemistry and there are, thankfully, no fade to black scenes as in book #2. That said, neither character is particularly likable. Dev is afraid to commit and constantly muses over the possibility of being with other women while Lark comes across as flirty and also mentions the possibility of having sex with another man. Their relationship is based almost solely on sex and their HEA is not believable.

The plot starts out well with the black market adoption ring. Unfortunately, this storyline is underdeveloped and plays out far too quickly. The book then goes off in a completely different, and unrealistic, direction with megalomaniac drug lords, rival cartels and special forces operatives taking over.

In sum, this series is nothing special and the secondary characters who will be the focus of future books are not that interesting.

Read More

Forged in Steele by Maya Banks

Title: Forged in Steele
Author: Maya Banks
Rating: 4 Stars


Synopsis: KGI operative, Steele, is considered an iceman and an enigma by his fellow teammates but Dr. Maren Scofield sees something behind his harsh facade - a man with strong emotions that just need the right person to bring them out. Is she that person? 

Review: Following the disappointment of PJ and Cole's story, I was wary of another story focusing on former secondary characters but am ecstatic to say that Maren and Steele's book is fantastic.

Maren and Steele have intense chemistry and their scenes together are both physically and emotionally intimate. Although Maren has been a recurring character in the series, little is known about her until now and she is revealed to be an intelligent, direct and loyal heroine who manages to hold her own in difficult situations.

Similarly, Steele has taken a backseat in previous installments and is little more that the typical stoic, strong and silent type - a man of few words and much action. This all changes in Forged in Steele as he finally meets his match and the ice begins to melt.

The suspense plot revolves around a mentally unstable drug lord with an unhealthy obsession for Maren. While this premise is solid, the situations does not come across as all that dire and drastic mainly because the villain is non-threatening for much of the time.

Nevertheless, the story and characters are engaging and I look forward to returning to KGI with Van's book and hopefully Rusty and Sean's as well.

Read More

In Too Deep by Jayne Ann Krentz

Title: In Too Deep

Author: Jayne Ann Krentz
Rating: 4 Stars


Synopsis: Scargill Cove is a town of many secrets but now one has come to light and the enigmatic Fallon Jones and his intrepid assistant, Isabella Valdez, must follow the clues to wherever they lead - but at what cost?


Review: Once again, the contemporary installment in the Arcane Society series has an edge over the historical and futuristic books. The mystery is intriguing, the romance is engaging and the actions scenes exciting. My one small caveat is the lack of progression in the overall Nightshade story arc.

Although the sizzle and spark of Isabella and Fallon's relationship is somewhat absent, they are a sweet couple and some of their moments together left me smiling. Isabella's sunny personality and calming aura is a perfect match for Fallon's dark and brooding tendencies.

The mystery, which focuses on a conspiracy involving the sale of paranormal weapons, is comprised of several complex threads that ultimately come together quite cohesively. JAK weaves such a successfully complex web that despite the plethora of clues, the identity of the culprit caught me by surprise for once.

The small town vibe of Scargill Cove and the quirky personalities of its inhabitants are a wonderful addition to the story and I hope that JAK will return there sometime.

Next up is Quicksilver in which we will apparently learn more about Mrs. Bridewell's curiosities - looking forward to it.

Read More

Running Hot by Jayne Ann Krentz

Title: Running Hot

Author: Jayne Ann Krentz

Series: The Arcane Society (book #5)

Previous in series: The Third Circle

Next in series: The Perfect Poison

My rating: 3.5 Stars

Synopsis:

Working as a librarian for the Arcane Society, Grace Renquist has secrets she is desperate to keep. Assigned to partner former police officer, Luther Malone, who shares her ability to read auras, Grace fears that her past will return to haunt her. Caught in a deadly game of cat and mouse with operatives from the renegade group known only as Nightshade, Grace and Luther must think on their feet and combine their resources if they are to survive dangerously potent powers enhanced by the founder's formula.

Review:

A fun read but not as suspenseful as some of the others in the series.

Luther and Grace are a typical Krentz couple. She is intelligent, feisty and damaged in some way while he is tough, sexy and absolutely irresistible. They have intense chemistry and their paranormal abilities complement each other - Grace profiles auras while Luther manipulates them. Nevertheless, their romantic relationship materializes too rapidly with very little development. 

The writing and dialogue are smooth as usual, however, the suspense plot is ultimately predictable and the threat posed by the villains is scarcely threatening. Moreover, the pacing is a little off with numerous superfluous explanations that fill in gaps rather than developing the story and characterization. The Nightshade plot is overly complex and even though some questions from previous books are answered, there is insufficient information on the origins and progression of the organization. 

The secondary characters are entertaining such as the band of misfits Luther hangs out with in Hawaii and Fallon Jones who seems to have bitten off more than he can chew. His character is very intriguing and I look forward to his book. 

All in all, quite entertaining for those times when you want an uncomplicated read.

Read More

Black Ice by Anne Stuart

Title: Black Ice
Author: Anne Stuart
Series: Ice (book #1)
Next in series: Cold As Ice

My rating: 3.5 Stars

Synopsis: Chloe Underwood is an underpaid translator living in Paris who wishes for a little excitement in her life. When she is offered the opportunity of a lifetime to translate a business meeting, Chloe soon realizes that one should be careful of what they wish for as the businessmen turn out to be deadly arms dealers, and she is forced to go on the run with a dangerous yet seductive stranger who may or may not kill her at any moment.

Review: A good premise that has a James Bond feel to it. The characters are interesting but the execution is poor.

Although Sebastian is a ruthless and sadistic anti-hero, you cannot stop yourself from falling in love with him in the same way that Chloe does. Chloe is exceedingly naïve, which may turn some readers off but for me her naiveté strikes just the right cord. Nevertheless, it is not clear why he falls in love with her and their relationship is far-fetched. Yes, they have great chemistry, but is that really true love?

The plot is good but is implausible and unrealistic at times. What self-respecting arms dealer would allow a complete stranger in on a deal? The story also focuses on some dark and sinister issues such as torture and so-called good guys crossing the line because the “ends justify the means”.

The main problem with this book is the writing, which is choppy and has sudden transitions that make it difficult to follow the sequence of events. Moreover, the ending is very abrupt and the reader is left with an unsatisfied feeling. As this is the first book in a series, perhaps we will learn more about Chloe and Sebastian’s relationship in the next installment.

Despite the improbable plot elements and the writing issues, I've heard such great things about the rest of the series and have decided to give it a chance. So I will be reading the next book.

Read More

Unlawful Contact by Pamela Clare

Title: Unlawful Contact
Author: Pamela Clare
Series: I-Team (book #3)
Previous in series: Hard Evidence 
Next in series: Naked Edge

My rating: 4 Stars

Synopsis: While looking into the disappearance of a young woman, investigative journalist, Sophie Alton, is led to the girl’s brother, a convicted killer who uses her to escape from prison. Little does she know that the convict is someone from her own past and the two are about to embark on a perilous journey toward truth and passion.

Review: Intense, romantic and steamy.

One of Pamela Clare's strenghts is her ability to write about controversial and intriguing issues and this book is no different. The plot centers on the abuse suffered by female prisoners while incarcerated and even though the story is not as disturbing as in Hard Evidence, and the identity of the villain can be guessed quite early on, the story is gripping and action packed. It had me spellbound from the very first words of the prologue and on the edge of my seat until the absolute end.

Characterization is another one of Clare's amazing skills. Sophie and Hunt are an outstanding couple. Sophie's belief in Hunt and her willingness to sacrifice herself makes her one of my favorite heroines. Hunt is an amazing hero (tortured just like I love them). His honor in the face of immense suffering is incredible and his love for Sophie is simply breathtaking.

I enjoyed catching up with some of the characters from the previous books and can’t wait to read the next one.

Read More

Standing in the Shadows by Shannon McKenna

Title: Standing in the Shadows
Author: Shannon McKenna
Series: McCloud Brothers (book #2)
Previous in series: Behind Closed Doors

Next in series: Out of Control

My rating: 4 Stars

Synopsis: Former FBI agent, Connor McCloud has been in love with Erin Riggs for years. Unfortunately, he is responsible for putting Erin’s corrupt father in prison and knows that he can never have her. Now an enemy from their past has returned and Connor must put his feelings aside in order to protect Erin from a devious killer bent on revenge…

Review: Standing in the Shadows is closely related to the first book in the series, Behind Closed Doors, so it is important to read the books in order for the backstory to make sense.

The buildup to Erin and Connor’s relationship is sexy and intense. Their doubts and insecurities about each other contribute to their unfolding chemistry. However, they seem to lose momentum once they get together and their connection is reduced to little more than steamy sex. Thankfully, the story picks up again in the last few chapters and they turn out to be a lovely couple.

Connor is a typical alpha male with the need to dominate (even though he does have his sensitive moments). He can be overbearing at times but Erin has a definite backbone and is quite capable of putting him in his place, which leads to some explosive encounters.

The plot is clever and the climax of the story plays out well and has some exhilarating moments. There are, however, some illogical circumstances and points that are not followed through. For example, Novak tries to undermine Barbara Riggs’s sanity but no one seems to realize that he is doing the same to Connor. In addition, Connor asks Seth to check up on Mrs. Riggs’s television but the latter never puts in an appearance.

The secondary characters are interesting and well developed from the seriously disturbed yet ingenious villain and his female sidekick (who turns out to be the most compelling character of all) to the geeky boy in love with Erin’s sister.  

Overall, this book is an improvement on the first but it is not the best example of the romantic suspense genre. Nevertheless, I’m curious enough about the secondary cast to continue reading the series.  

Read More

Don't Tell by Karen Rose

Title: Don’t Tell

Author: Karen Rose
Series: Romantic Suspense Series (book #1)
Next in series: Have You Seen Her?

My rating: 4 Stars

Synopsis: The victim of horrendous abuse at the hands of her police officer husband, Gracie Winters saved her own life and that of her young son by staging their deaths. Nine years later, Gracie has reinvented herself as Caroline Stewart and is on the verge of falling in love and trusting a man again. But Caroline’s past is about to catch up with her and the threat could cost not only her newfound relationship but her very life.

Review: The suspense is excellent and makes this a worthwhile read. However, the romance is a little bland and the primary characters can be aggravating at times.

Rose does an incredible job imparting the feelings of terror, anguish and shame associated with domestic abuse. While the scenes are brutally realistic and difficult to read about, they grab the reader by the throat and make it easy to empathize with the heroine and her amazing courage and determination. They also emphasize the danger posed by the villain, who is enough to make your skin crawl.

In general, Max and Caroline are likeable characters with good chemistry but they also tended to rub me the wrong way. Max is too quick to anger and wallow in self-pity, and Caroline tends to jump to conclusions. Moreover, their arguments become tedious after a while and contribute nothing to their relationship. The secondary characters are far more engaging, especially Max’s brother, Caroline best friend and the agent investigating the case. All of these characters have books of their own in the series and I look forward to reading their stories.

Rose’s writing is fast-paced and compelling, and the action sequence at the end is exciting. The plot of is reminiscent of the film Sleeping with the Enemy with Julia Roberts. So if you are a fan of the movie you will definitely enjoy this book.

Read More

Darkness at Dawn by Elizabeth Jennings

Title: Darkness at Dawn
Author: Elizabeth Jennings

My rating: 4 Stars

Synopsis: Following the revelation of an existential threat to the United States, Lucy Merrit, the daughter of famed CIA agents, is recruited to return to the country of their death to retrieve vital information. Lucy, together with Army Captain Mike Shafer, infiltrates the Kingdom of Nhala where a megalomaniac dictator is on the verge of annihilating humanity. Can Lucy and Mike save the world and their new found love?

Review: An impressive and gripping plot with well-developed and appealing characters.
 

Lucy is quick witted, adapts well to extreme situations and has amazing inner strength. Mike is strong, sexy and resourceful. He provides Lucy with the love and care that has always been missing in her life. The only problem is that even though they have great chemistry, it never really fulfills itself and their relationship is left hanging.
 

The writing is fast paced and the action scenes are exhilarating. There are a number of gruesome moments, however, and the book might not be for those with weaker stomachs. Moreover, some aspects of the story require readers to take significant steps in suspending their disbelief, such as accepting the fact that the CIA would ask a document restorer to retrieve military intelligence. Finally, the ending is wrapped up very quickly and a little too neatly.

The author is obviously making some political points with her writing so be forewarned. Nevertheless, this is an entertaining read and I look forward to reading additional books by this author.

Read More

Wild Heat by Bella Andre

Title: Wild Heat
Author: Bella Andre
Series: Hot Shots (book #1)
Next in series: Hot as Sin

My rating: 3.5 Stars

Synopsis: Shattered by grief following the death of her brother, Maya Jackson has a close sexual encounter with a complete stranger. Six months later she finds herself investigating a series of arson fires and discovers that her biggest mistake is also her prime suspect – dedicated Hotshot firefighter, Logan Cain. Soon Maya and Logan are on a collision course not only with each other but with a crazed killer with a passion for setting fires.

Review: The arson premise makes for a good plot and reminds me of Nora Roberts’ recent release Chasing Fire, but without the excessive firefighting descriptions.

The characters are likeable even though too much space is dedicated to describing how gorgeous, honorable and self-sacrificing the hero is. He definitely suffers from the “overly perfect hero” syndrome. I was expecting much more anger and angst at his being accused of being an arsonist but he just takes it in stride. Maya is a strong and intelligent character. She has a good backstory and her emotions and reactions are to be expected. Nevertheless, there is something missing from her relationship with Logan – their connection feels forced despite their chemistry.

The writing is iffy with one or two discrepancies such as the hero starting out with brown eyes and ending up with blue. Also, there are too many unrealistic scenes. For example, neither protagonist thinks of calling the police/fire department after Logan’s truck explodes in his driveway. Instead, sex seems to be the only thing on their minds.

The arson investigation develops well even though it could have been more detailed and interesting. There are some good suspects but not enough clues for readers to really work it out for themselves. The villain is unexpected but logical, which is a pleasant surprise and garners the book an extra half star.

In sum, a promising start to the series and I will read the next one.

Read More

When You Dare by Lori Foster

Title: When You Dare  

Author: Lori Foster
Series: Men Who Walk the Edge of Honor (#1)
Next in series: Trace of Fever

My rating: 3 Stars

Synopsis: On a mission to recover his friend’s sister from human traffickers, professional mercenary, Dare Macintosh, rescues a badly beaten Molly Alexander. Intelligent and independent, Molly is not your usual victim and she hires Dare to help her track down those responsible for her abduction. As the suspects pile up and the danger increases, Dare becomes the only person Molly can trust but can he save her from the looming threat?

Review: A little disappointing after all the hype. The basic premise of human trafficking is interesting but most of the action takes place before the book even begins. The rest of the story lacks tension and suspense and the ending is predictable. Hard Evidence by Pamela Clare offers a far more in-depth and detailed look at this theme and is a more intense and exciting read.

While Molly and Dare have steamy chemistry, their character development is problematic. There is too much focus on their internal thoughts, emotions, and motivations. Molly's reaction to her ordeal is unrealistic - no one could possibly be that stoic after the torture and abuse she suffered. Dare is very sexy but seems too laid back, sweet and caring to be a mercenary and is more in line with law enforcement.

Finally, the villain is obvious and the motivation for the crime is bewildering and even trivial.

Nevertheless, the writing flows and the romance is sweet. So if you are interested in a light read to take your mind off things then this fits the bill. I will probably read the next one if I come across it at a used book store but I won’t be going out of my way to get it.

Read More

Hard Evidence by Pamela Clare

Title: Hard Evidence  
Author: Pamela Clare
Series: I-Team (Book #2)
Previous in series: Extreme Exposure
Next in series: Unlawful Contact

My rating: 5 Stars

Synopsis: After witnessing the murder of a teenage-girl, investigative reporter Tessa Novak believes Julian Darcangelo is responsible for the crime. However, Julian is, in fact, an undercover FBI agent on the trail of a human trafficker and vicious killer. Now, Tessa's reports have brought them closer both to each other and to an unimaginable evil that threatens both their lives.

Review: The first book in the series, Extreme Exposure, was good but nothing truly special. This book is a huge improvement. The plot is fast paced and suspenseful, the romance is intense and the characters are well-developed.

The human trafficking story is exceptional. Pamela Clare has definitely done her research and it shows in the details. The villain is diabolical and there are some truly frightening moments at the climax of the book that had me holding my breath. I did manage to guess the identity of the FBI mole but this sub-plot is cleverly done with appropriate red-herrings.

The characterization is excellent - Tessa's soft and vulnerable exterior belies her fierce intelligence and determination. She is completely fearless when it comes to her job and I appreciated her dedication even though she does some crazy things, like visiting gang bangers on their turf. It may seem stupid but makes sense in the life of an investigative journalist accustomed to taking risks for the story. Julian is the perfect combination - sexy, courageous and protective with a tad of tortured hero thrown in. Their chemistry is explosive and the development of their hate to love relationship is particularly captivating.

Overall, this is an incredible story with amazing characters. Hopefully the rest of the series will be just as good.

Read More

Snowfall by Sharon Sala

Title: Snowfall 

Author: Sharon Sala

My rating: 3.5 Stars

Synopsis: Mystery author Caitlin Bennett is the target of a deranged fan who progresses from mailing threatening letters and rat parts to pushing her into traffic. Against her wishes, Caitlin’s publisher asks ex-cop, Conner “Mac” McKee to provide protection for her. However, just as she begins to feel safe, the bodies of women who bear a remarkable resemblance to her are discovered and Caitlin realizes that she could be next.

Review: An entertaining romantic suspense novel even if the plot is predictable.

The characters are well developed and engaging. Caitlin is intelligent and independent, finding it difficult to place her trust in Mac even though he is strong and capable of protecting her. They have a tangible chemistry and their romance is sweet although they do seem to get over their differences quite quickly.

The villain is seriously disturbed and even though his motive is far from original, it is fun trying to work out his identity. It shouldn’t take too long if one is following the clues.

The writing is strong, the dialogue flows and there is a good buildup of tension and suspense. The ending is fast-paced but ultimately feels a little anti-climactic.

In sum, Sharon Sala is a first time author for me. Even though Snowfall is a light and entertaining read, I’m not sure I would go out of my way to get another of her books. Nevertheless, if I came across one at the used bookstore, I’d definitely read it.

Read More

Undertow by Cherry Adair

Title: Undertow 

Author: Cherry Adair 

Series: Cutter Cay (book #1)

Next in series: Riptide


My rating: 4 Stars


Synopsis: Salvager Zane Cutter is in desperate need of a mechanic and Teal Williams fits the bill – she can “speak” to engines, dive and seems immune to his charms. Everything is perfect, or so Zane believes until he discovers the fascinating woman behind Teal’s cold façade. Can these two deal with their growing attraction as well as with the dangers inherent to seeking treasure in the Caribbean?

Review: A sizzling romance against an exciting backdrop but the suspense plot fall a little flat.

The treasure hunt atmosphere and salvage is interesting and well written. However, the suspenseful aspects of the story are weak. To begin with, there are two separate threats to Zane’s salvaging expedition. The first, involving modern day pirates bent on stealing the treasure for themselves, is appropriate if predictable, but the sudden inclusion of a second subplot revolving around espionage and government agents just takes things too far.

Nevertheless, Teal and Zane are incredible characters and their chemistry more than makes up for the pitfalls of the suspense plot. Teal is an amalgamation of opposites – a boat mechanic who suffers from seasickness; a tomboy who hides her beauty and sensitivity behind a mask of dry wit and sarcasm. It is entertaining to watch her thaw out in the face of Zane’s sexy intensity and it is just as fun seeing Zane struggle to seduce the one woman that he truly wants. 

Adair’s writing style is engaging and the dialogue between Teal and Zane is witty and charming. Despite the problems with the plot development, Undertow is a fast-paced and entertaining read. I look forward to reading the next books in the series centering on Zane’s brothers.

Read More

Chosen Prey by Cheyenne McCray

Title: Chosen Prey
Author: Cheyenne McCray

My Rating: 4 Stars

Synopsis: When former cop turned private investigator, Dare Lancaster accidentally leads a fanatical cult straight to Lyra Collins, he realizes that he has placed her in danger and is determined to save her at all costs. An escapee from a cult, Lyra finds it difficult to trust anyone but will have to work with Dare in order to thwart the plans of a fanatical cult leader convinced that Lyra is the foretold mother of the new Messiah.

Review: A well-written, suspenseful and engrossing plot with just the right mix of action and romance.

The love scenes are steamy but not overly explicit, and the main characters are engaging. Dare is a strong, honorable and surprisingly forgiving hero – I’m not sure I would be as accepting of someone who sprayed pepper spray in my face. Lyra is independent, intelligent and courageous, and is able to get out of some seriously sticky situations using her wits alone. One problematic issue with their relationship is that, given Lyra’s past, it progresses for too quickly to be completely believable but it is enjoyable nonetheless.

The secondary characters are also well-developed, especially Dare’s partner (hopefully he will get his own book) and the cult leader, whose disgusting depravity is enough to make your skin crawl.

The writing is well-paced and the dialogue flows. There are one or two incidents that had me shaking my head in disbelief but these do not ruin the overall reading experience.  

McCray is another first time author for me and I will definitely be reading more of her books.

Read More

Kiss and Tell by Cherry Adair

Title: Kiss and Tell

Author: Cherry Adair

Series: T-FLAC (book #2)

Previous in series: The Mercenary

Next in series: Hide and Seek

My rating: 3 Stars

Synopsis: Jake Dolan lives a seemingly quiet life minding his own business until the day he catches Marnie Wright trespassing on his property. Marnie is used to testosterone given her four brothers, but now she is thrust into a world of danger and intrigue with only a stranger to keep her grounded.

Review: The gripping chemistry between the main characters does not quite compensate for the mediocre and excessively drawn out plot.

Jake is a lonely and paranoid yet endearing hero who feels betrayed and finds it difficult to love again. Marnie is the exact opposite – open and caring with a tendency to chatter ceaselessly when nervous. Although she is quite annoying in the beginning, she has a tendency to grow, not only on Jake, who finds her impossible to resist, but on the reader as well.  

Although the characters were likeable and interesting enough to keep me reading, I almost gave up halfway through the book because the plot had a tendency to drag. I managed to stick with it and the story did liven up ¾ of the way in and the last few chapters were really good even if the villain turned out to be predictable.

The writing is mostly smooth but there is some repetitive description and ridiculous dialogue. Moreover, the final action sequence is confusing and difficult to follow. It is virtually impossible to figure out who is shooting and who they are shooting at. It is a good thing that the next chapter sorts it all out more coherently.

The book definitely has potential but isn’t as good as the first book, The Mercenary. I can only recommend Kiss and Tell to those who wish to read the rest of the T-FLAC series because the characters in the next installments are introduced in this book. I personally plan on continuing but it is not a priority.

Read More