#NetGalley Book Review: Heart of the Storm by Debbie Peterson

This was a good mix of time travel and romantic suspense.
Heart of the Storm
by Debbie Peterson

File Size: 2474 KB
Print Length: 277 pages
Simultaneous Device Usage: Unlimited
Publisher: The Wild Rose Press, Inc (February 27, 2019)
ASIN: B07MBVKQ3K
Genre: Romantic Suspense, Time Travel
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0

DEA agent Aliyana Montijo must stop a drug lord's killing orders and find a government mole. With a contract on her head, she trusts no one. While heading back to Florida with evidence, lightning strikes her plane. As it careens into the ocean, she thinks she sees a pirate ship. What she finds is a dashing and most unlikely ally.
Four centuries ago, Wolfaert Dircksen Van Ness captained a vessel for the Dutch West Indies Company. Then an unearthly storm in the Bermuda Triangle blew him into a parallel dimension. After rescuing Aliyana from a similar tempest, he finds himself drawn to the courageous beauty and wants to aid her mission.
In the midst of danger, the two find themselves falling in love. Then a misunderstanding tears them apart, perhaps forever…

Review:
Aliyana has been working undercover for a Columbian drug lord, Emil. Now that she is completing her security tech work she knows she must escape or face death. The local guards have commandeered her motorcycle so she commandeers Emil’s plane. On her way to Florida, Aliyana is caught in a storm and the plane is hit by lightning. While heading to crash into the ocean, Aliyana thinks she sees a pirate ship. She awakens in a lighthouse to find a handsome, strangely dressed man hovering.

Wolfaert is the Captain of a Dutch West Indies vessel who has been travelling between parallel dimensions. It isn’t easy to explain to this spirited young woman that she has fallen through a time tunnel. Before leaving Columbia Aliyana had stumbled upon information of an assassination plot by Emil against the families of the DEA. She is determined to get back to her world and time to protect those targets.

I enjoyed the steady action and intrigue in this story. This was augmented by the machinations and nuances of time traveling spirits. Then you have the pleasure of a growing romance with a twist very near the end. I found the story creative and the writing well-paced. I would be interested in reading more from Ms. Peterson. I recommend this to readers who enjoy romantic suspense and time travel.

Source: 2019 NetGalley. This qualifies for 2019NetGalley Goal.

#NetGalley Book Review: Never Let Go (Uncommon Justice Book #1) by Elizabeth Goddard

I enjoyed this engaging romantic suspense.
Never Let Go (Uncommon Justice Book #1)
by Elizabeth Goddard

File Size: 7226 KB
Print Length: 365 pages
Page Numbers Source ISBN: 0800729846
Publisher: Revell (February 5, 2019)
ASIN: B07F3DM5KF
Genre: Christian, Romantic Suspense
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

As a forensic genealogist, Willow Anderson is following in her late grandfather's footsteps in her quest for answers about a baby abducted from the hospital more than twenty years ago. The case may be cold, but things are about to heat up when someone makes an attempt on her life to keep her from discovering the truth.
Ex-FBI agent--and Willow's ex-flame--Austin McKade readily offers his help to protect the woman he never should have let get away. Together they'll follow where the clues lead them, even if it means Austin must face the past he's spent much of his life trying to forget. And even if it puts Willow's tender heart at risk.
In this fast-paced and emotional page-turner, bestselling author Elizabeth Goddard keeps the stakes high, the romantic tension sparking, and the outcome uncertain until the very end.

Review:
Willow is a forensic genealogist who has learned under grandfather’s expert and intuitive tutelage. Her grandfather has recently died and, struggling with self-doubt, Willow decides to continue with his last case assignment: to find a daughter who had been kidnapped as a new born 20 years before. Willow’s decision is confirmed when her home is set on fire and it is apparent that someone wants to stop her from investigating further.

Willow’s ex-beau, Austin McKade, a former FBI agent, had been contacted by Willow’s grandfather to help with the case. He arrives on site just in time to give support and insists on staying to protect Willow.

Willow and Austin discover a thread to follow in the cold case. This little thread takes them to the area of the Grand Tetons in Wyoming which just happens to be Austin’s hometown and the source of the past that has kept him closed off, even from Willow. Since danger follows them, they are sure they are on the right path and getting closer to unraveling history.

I really liked the plot which included a path of crimes involving more than one motive. I did suspect the primary villain but there were twists on the second. Throughout the threats and emotional struggles, Willow and Austin call on their faith backgrounds for support and there are forgiveness and acceptance issues. Their own relationship is rocky and unsettled until the end.

The story is fast paced and reads quickly. I also liked the information on forensic genealogist which was new to me. I recommend this to readers who like light Christian, romantic suspense.

Source: 2018 NetGalley. This qualifies for my 2019TBR, 2019Network and 2019 Alphabet goals.

#NetGalley Book Review: Blind Betrayal by Nancy Mehl

This is romantic suspense just as I like it.

Blind Betrayal (Defenders of Justice Book #3)
by Nancy Mehl

File Size: 6264 KB
Print Length: 322 pages
Page Numbers Source ISBN: 0764217798
Publisher: Bethany House Publishers (April 17, 2018)
ASIN: B07879ZBG5
Genre: Christian, Mystery, Romantic Suspense
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0

Deputy U.S. Marshal Casey Sloane has worked at the St. Louis Marshals office for two years and is given a routine assignment to help transport a reporter to D.C. to testify before a grand jury. Valerie, the reporter, was writing a story about an up-and-coming environmentalist who suddenly disappeared and, she later discovered, whose backers purportedly have ties to a terrorist.
When the seemingly ordinary assignment suddenly takes a shocking turn, Casey is forced to put aside her own feelings about the unexpected reappearance of a man from her past as she and two other Marshals take Valerie on the run. And as it becomes dangerously clear Valerie's testimony has even bigger implications than they knew, they'll do whatever it takes to make it out alive.

Review:
Deputy U.S. Marshal Casey is assigned with her partner to transport a reporter who is expected to be a witness against a terrorist, drug cartel leader. Casey is surprised when a colleague from D.C., where she used to work, is brought in as part of the transport team. E.J. had a tendré for Casey but hid it while she dated his best friend. Neither E.J. nor his friend were happy when Casey changed offices, walking away unexpectedly.

Before the escort team can get on the road, the Marshal’s headquarters is bombed. It soon appears that someone will go to a lot of trouble to get to the witness. Casey and E.J. need to sort out the tensions between them but first they are going to need to keep the witness alive and get her to D.C.

Ms. Mehl does a good job building the suspense and tension. I enjoyed the double conflict and tension in the story: the natural dangers of protecting a witness while running from the enemy and the dangers and struggles while running from the human heart. There are miscommunications that contribute to both problems. There are some faith foundations that are shared as a part of the characters without being in anyway preachy.

This was the third in a series but it read fine as a standalone. This is romantic suspense just as I like it. I recommend it to readers who enjoy romantic suspense and mystery.

Source: 2018 NetGalley. This qualifies for 2018 NetGalley Challenge.

Book Review: Christmas at Draycott Abbey (Draycott Abbey Romance) by Christina Skye

I enjoyed this suspenseful Christmas story where past and present mix.

Christmas at Draycott Abbey (Draycott Abbey Romance)
by Christina Skye

File Size: 355 KB
Print Length: 62 pages
Publication Date: July 17, 2015
ASIN: B011YGWNEE
Genre: Ghost, Paranormal, Romantic Suspense
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0

As Christmas draws near and darkness veils the haunted English abbey, a tale of loss and love betrayed begins.
As cold closes in, old hatreds spring to life, bringing danger to a vulnerable woman betrayed by those she trusts most. Wounded and lost, Clair Haywood will seek haven within the abbey's ancient granite walls. But her enemies are closer than she knows.
Only one man can save her. And he has been dead for 200 years.

Review:
Clair went undercover with the government to England to seek out the powerful man who used and killed her sister. She gets caught by the enemy but manages to escape. She is wounded and injured in her blind race to seek safety. She stumbles upon an old English abbey where she is taken in by a mysterious man. She doesn’t know who she can trust and tries to get away again but danger lurks at the door.

Ian Sinclair is man who keeps to himself. He has a dangerous past and is careful to avoid risk and to be cautious of strangers. He appreciates the solitude of Draycott Abbey which has been lent to him by his friend, the current Viscount. Ian and his big dog, Churchill, spot a shadow in the woods. They rescue a young woman but he is aware of men following her and is immediately on alert.

Clair and Ian struggle to understand the strange attraction between them while they try to avoid the men seeking her. There is another presence at the abbey who has reason to want to help them. He has been waiting for 200 years to right a wrong that cost his friends their chance at love for a lifetime.

This was a quick, exciting read that I really enjoyed. I liked the smooth, direct writing. I haven't read this author in years but I think I won’t wait so long to read another Skye paranormal romance adventure. It looks like I have 10 in my Kindle library, including the first of this series. This book read fine as a standalone. I recommend it to readers who enjoy romantic suspense with paranormal elements.

Source: 2012 Free Kindle. This is a 2018TBR and Alphabet Challenge "C" title.

#NetGalley Book Review: Kill Shot by Susan Sleeman

This Christian romantic suspense was right on target for me.
Kill Shot: A Novel (White Knights Book 2)
by Susan Sleeman

File Size: 639 KB
Print Length: 401 pages
Page Numbers Source ISBN: 1455596493
Publisher: FaithWords (February 6, 2018)
ASIN: B071JLNVKD
Genre: Christian, Mystery, Romantic Suspense
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0

Suspense and romance combine in Susan Sleeman's thrilling new novel about an FBI agent who must team up with a beautiful therapist to stop a killer with a deadly new weapon.
Some fears haunt you forever....
As the ballistics and weapon's expert for the FBI's special task force nicknamed the White Knights, Rick Cannon has known the Department of Defense was developing self-steering bullets. Rick feared these smart bullets--which have one hundred percent accuracy that can turn even a novice into a lethal sniper--would eventually end up in the hands of the wrong people. But since the ammunition was still in the development stage, he figured they had plenty of time before that happened. He was wrong. Dead wrong.
Until they become reality.
When a homeless vet is killed with a smart bullet, it's clear that the ammunition has been stolen, and the Knights are called in to find the thief and stop the killings. But they aren't the only ones desperate to find the killer. Therapist Olivia Dobbs is well known for her success in counseling military veterans with PTSD. When she discovers one of her clients moments after he is murdered, she becomes both the FBI's prime witness, and suspect.
Despite the mutual attraction that immediately sparks between them, Rick can't--no he won't--let Olivia interfere with his investigation. But when the sniper trains his rifle on her, Rick must recall all the skills he learned as a Marine sniper to make sure the next bullet fired isn't a kill shot that takes Olivia out.

Review:
Olivia is a Christian therapist who has counseled a number of vets suffering from PTSD. She is trying to help a particular patient who is acting paranoid, thinking someone is going to kill him. The man takes off in anger and she decides to try to catch up. When she finds him, he has just been killed and she narrowly escapes the killer. The next thing Olivia knows she is being interviewed by the FBI even thought she doesn't understand why they are on the case. Soon it is apparent that she is not just a person of interest but may be a suspect.

Rick is the lead of the FBI team brought in on a rush to investigate the murder. They are there not because of the victim but because of the use of stolen self-steering bullets. They cannot reveal the secret nature of their mission to anyone as the team implements their special skills to uncover the theft and plot that is bigger than the murder.

Rick doesn’t trust anyone. He hasn’t even let his teammates get too close to his personal frustrations and vulnerabilities. Rick is with Olivia when a sniper tries to kill her. Now he is determined to keep her close so he can better keep her safe while he discovers if her caring nature is real of if she has a nefarious connection with the criminals.

The chemistry between Rick and Olivia is nicely done. It is clear they try to keep things professional, but the attraction keeps pulling them closer together. Rick’s team of forensic experts contributes strong interest and personalities. Olivia’s family adds distraction - some pleasant and some very stressful.

There is a full story with danger and suspense and the romance is a nice add in. I especially enjoyed the Christian foundations shared by Olivia and the way her patience wore down Rick’s resistance. I have some other titles by Ms. Sleeman and I need to get to read them as I enjoy her style. I'd like to read the other books in this series too. I recommend this to readers who like romantic suspense.

Source: 2018 NetGalley. This qualifies for NetGalley and Alphabet Challenges.

#NetGalley Book Review: Silent Threat (Mission Recovery Book 1) by Dana Marton

I enjoyed the interesting elements in this romantic suspense.

Silent Threat (Mission Recovery Book 1)

by Dana Marton

File Size: 3738 KB
Print Length: 311 pages
Publisher: Montlake Romance (January 2, 2018)
ASIN: B071VF6YV4
Genre: Military, Romantic Suspense
My Rating: 4.75 of 5.0

A former Navy SEAL, Cole Makani Hunter has returned home from a disastrous black ops mission without his best friend, his hearing, or the use of his right arm. So when his ex–commanding officer assigns him to an undercover mission at a rehab center for vets to discover who leaked sensitive military information to an enemy, he’d rather be anywhere but there. Almost immediately, Cole finds himself at odds with Annie Murray—a peace-loving ecotherapist whose dream is to open an animal sanctuary out of her home. While the two seemingly have nothing in common, their spirited arguments soon fuel a passion for each other.
But just as things begin to heat up between therapist and patient, dangerous complications arise. So does the past—and a shocking revelation that puts Cole and everything he now holds dear in the path of a murderous traitor.

Review:
Annie Murray is a calm, ecotherapist who loves her strays. She is using her unique therapy skills at a rehab center for vets while she gathers resources to open an animal sanctuary. She cares for unusual pets like abandoned baby skunks, two llamas, an injured donkey and more. But Annie has other ‘strays’ she doesn’t want, like an ex-boyfriend who is having trouble understanding the words “not interested” and a stalker who might be her ex or someone more dangerous.

Cole Makani Hunter is a former Navy Seal who has lost his hearing and the use of one arm. He isn’t really interested in the rehab work but he has been sent in undercover. Once he meets Annie and experiences her tough, take no guff attitude, Cole finds his protective instincts are kicking into gear. Cole is a large man who could imitate Annie, but she stands her ground with him.

The very beginning of the story is a little slow but soon Cole is introduced as a character and the banner, rapport and tension quickly pickup. I was drawn in by these characters and their vulnerabilities and strengths. I had never heard of ecotherapy but really like the idea and it was fun how the author used that with Cole’s reluctance. I also appreciated how the author portrayed the problems a deaf man would face, especially one trained as a seal to have super situational awareness. There is emotion through the story, fear, distrust, insecurity, loss and some love and joy. The protagonists may have been reluctant to see themselves together but fortunately that changes along the way.

Although this isn’t action packed, there is strong tension as harmful acts toward Annie escalate. The author provides short glimpses of a twisted villain, but the person isn’t revealed until near the end. The writing is direct and moves at a good pace. I hope to read more by this author. I would recommend this to readers who enjoy a good romantic suspense.

Source: NetGalley. This qualifies for my 2018 NetGalley Challenge.

Audible Book Review: The Search by Nora Roberts

This is solid romantic suspense with the bonus of dog training tips.

The Search
By: Nora Roberts
Narrated by: Tanya Eby

Length: 14 hrs and 53 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release date: 07-06-10
Language: English
Publisher: Brilliance Audio
Genre: Contemporary, Romantic Suspense
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
To most people, Fiona Bristow seems to have an idyllic life: a quaint house on an island off Seattle’s coast, a thriving dog-training school, and a challenging volunteer job performing canine search and rescue. Not to mention her three intensely loyal Labs. But Fiona got to this point by surviving a nightmare.
Several years ago, she was the only survivor of a serial killer - a madman who stalked and abducted young women, strangled them, and left them buried with a red scarf on their bodies. As authorities were closing in on the Red Scarf Killer, he shot and killed Fiona’s cop fiancé and his K-9 partner.
On Orcas Island, Fiona has found the peace and solitude she needed to rebuild her life. Yet all that changes on the day Simon Doyle barrels up her drive, desperate for her help. He’s the reluctant owner of an out-of-control puppy, foisted upon him by his mother. Jaws has eaten through Simon’s house, and he’s at his wit’s end.
To Fiona, Jaws is nothing she can’t handle. Simon is another matter. A newcomer to Orcas, he’s a rugged and intensely private artist, known for creating exquisite furniture. Simon never wanted a puppy, and he most definitely doesn’t want a woman. Besides, the lanky redhead is not his type. But tell that to the laws of attraction.
As Fiona embarks on training Jaws and as Simon begins to appreciate both dog and trainer, the past tears back into Fiona’s life. A copycat killer has emerged out of the shadows, a man whose bloodlust has been channeled by a master with one motive: to reclaim the woman who slipped out of his hands.
©2010 Nora Roberts (P)2010 Brilliance Audio, Inc.

Review:
Fiona escaped from a serial killer several years ago. Fiona's experience from the past has shaped who she is today - fiercely independent and determined not to be a victim again. She has a successful business training dogs…and their owners. She is also an important leader in the local search and rescue team.

Simon is an interesting male protagonist. His mother gave him a puppy and he, or really they, need serious help. He is very singular, insular... until love sneaks up on him. There is good involvement with the dog training which fills a lot of the story.

This is solid romantic suspense The suspense with the serial killer is almost almost secondary to the romantic development. Of course the danger sets Simon into a protective mode even as he begins reluctantly.

There are a couple of rescue searches that add to the depth of the story. The story moves at a good pace with good blending of the dog training techniques, romantic tension and underlying danger. There is more of the "f" word than I like but I was able to skip over it for the most part.

Nora Roberts is pretty reliable as an author delivering strong characters and romance with good tension. I recommend this to readers who like dog training and romantic suspense.

Audio Notes: Tanya Eby's narration isn't the best that I have heard. It is a little soft and has a sort of choppy delivery. After awhile I got used to it and fortunately the story carried the presentation.

Source: 2012 Audible Credit Purchase. This qualifies for 2018TBR and Audiobook Challenge.

#NetGalley Book Review: Lock 'N' Load (Federal K-9) by Tee O'Fallon

I enjoyed this romantic suspense but there is too much cursing for my tastes.
Lock 'N' Load (Federal K-9)
by Tee O'Fallon

File Size: 1165 KB
Print Length: 300 pages
Publisher: Entangled: Amara (May 28, 2018)
ASIN: B07CWRYKPV
Genre: Romantic Suspense
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0

Crack CIA analyst Trista Gold is a whiz with the computer, but not so much with people. She hides behind her job, analyzing Top Secret code and making recommendations on national security. She doesn’t need a man in her life. But she will, very soon...
CIA K-9 officer Sgt. Matt Connors suspects that beneath Trista’s uptight appearance, there’s a sexy woman itching to cut loose. But he doesn’t dare act on his attraction. He’s a loner and always will be. Keeping away from Trista is a must-do directive. Until he doesn’t have a choice...
During a routine assignment, Trista stumbles across a cryptic exchange. She doesn’t think much of it...until someone tries to murder her—twice. Both times, Matt had been there to save her. But now she has to hide. And her new bodyguard, Matt, and his K-9 are the only hope she has against the powerful forces that want her dead.

Review:
Trista is a crack CIA analyst who is sorely lacking in self-confidence and social skills. Presumably she was a computer nerd through her growing years and never met a boy or man to show her the world beyond computer code. Then she meets CIA K-9 officer Matt Connors. He is a hunk, of course, and Trista is flabbergasted to be saved by him --- twice in one day! He is so kind to her, but she knows a man like him couldn’t be interested in a geek like her. And it doesn’t help that she has been frightened of dogs since a bad encounter as a child.

Matt has always been able to get any woman he wants but he makes it clear there will be nothing beyond a good time. He has a guilt-ridden soul that tells him he doesn’t deserve love or happiness. He sees beyond the geeky Trista to the beautiful woman behind the mousy clothes. He is glad to help her and hopes to show her she is more than a computer nerd, but he can’t allow himself to respond to the pull of attraction and longing for something more that he feels when he looks at or thinks of her.

Trista has uncovered a suspicious, mysterious and threatening chat but her identity was exposed by a few minutes of computer breakdown. She doesn’t want to think the night time attack on her has anything to do with what she saw but a second attack on her life convinces everyone else around her that her life is in danger. Security assigns Matt to be her body guard so the pair are reluctantly thrown together.

Matt takes her to the safest place he knows – his own home where a handful of his old training buddies are visiting. Each one is a man-worthy canine officer within different branches of enforcement. Their attentions help Trista to come out of her shell while raising the jealous nerves for Matt. But he has to concentrate on keeping her safe before he can face his own demons to try to be the man she challenges him to be.

I did like the chemistry between Trista and Matt even though I couldn't relate too well to Trista's rather wimpy character. Fortunately she grows through the danger. And of course, I love the canine element although it is secondary to the romantic suspense. I also enjoyed the banter of the hunky friends. I imagine there could be great romantic suspense stories for each friend. The suspense, danger and action are all laid out well to keep the book moving along at a good pace. The sexual encounters are an addition, not the focus, and they are sizzling without being crass. The romance has conflicts that provide for realistic growth for both characters.

My only objection with the book is the free and liberal use of foul words. Sadly, that distracts and detracts from my enjoyment of the story. I acknowledge I am sensitive to foul language – I don’t use it and don’t like it. I’ll accept a little but not continuous through the book. If the series came with an edited version I would read every one. Otherwise I will most likely pass for other less vulgar works. I recommend this to readers who enjoy strong romantic suspense with all the good elements: romance, suspense and action. Just be cautioned about the language.

Source: NetGalley Selection 2018. This qualifies for NetGalley Challenge.

#NetGalley Book Review: If I Live by Terri Blackstock

This is an engaging, satisfactory conclusion of this intense series.
If I Live (If I Run Series) by Terri Blackstock

File Size: 1246 KB
Print Length: 352 pages

Publisher: Zondervan (March 6, 2018)
ASIN: B072TNH72K
Genre: Christian, Mystery, Romantic Suspense
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

THE HUNT IS ALMOST OVER.

Casey Cox is still on the run after being indicted for murder. The hunt that began with her bloody footprints escalates, and she’s running out of places to hide. Her face is all over the news, and her disguises are no longer enough. It’s only a matter of time before someone recognizes her.
Dylan Roberts, the investigator who once hunted her, is now her only hope. Terrifying attempts on Dylan’s life could force Casey out of hiding. The clock is ticking on both their lives, but exposing the real killers is more complicated than they knew. Amassing the evidence to convict their enemies draws Dylan and Casey together, but their relationship has consequences. Will one life have to be sacrificed to protect the other?
With If I Live, Terri Blackstock takes us on one more heart-stopping chase in the sensational conclusion to the If I Run series.

Review:
Casey has been wearing disguises to stay hidden but she keeps helping people in need around her. Her latest efforts are trying to help a man wrongfully accused of child abuse and trying to find a way to help the child. She keeps landing in the news and getting recognized. Corrupt detective Keegan is hot on her heels.

Dylan has managed to help Casey avoid capture. Through their brief contacts their feelings for each other are growing. He is continuing to look for proof to support the allegations that Keegan is dirty and a killer. Dylan’s own actions, as covert as he is trying to be, are putting pressure on Keegan who is taking down loose ends around him. This includes a direct attack on Dylan.

The suspense continues to escalate as Casey and Dylan try to arrange for her to safely turn herself in without putting her near Keegan. A few last-minute twists had hubby and me holding our breath waiting for resolution.

There were some questions in our minds like ‘why Casey and Dylan didn’t take the evidence to the FBI?’ It was clear it was hard to trust anyone near their own town and precinct but its seems they might have sought help from another jurisdiction. Casey does end up with an interesting choice of attorney who is a good character addition. The romance and faith support elements were nicely handled as they picked up in this concluding book. I really liked how Blackstock showed how God worked to help Casey and Dylan.

All in all, hubby and I enjoyed the trilogy and I was extra glad he listened with me. This third book was a NetGalley ebook version so we had my Kindle reading. I am used to the mechanical, robotic voice but hubby kept grumbling: “that guy has no emotion”. I am sure he would have preferred the audio but I was fine with the ebook.

I like Blackstock’s writing which is engaging and not overly complex. I recommend this series to readers who enjoy romantic suspense and faith-based elements.

Source: NetGalley 2018. This qualifies for NetGalley and Alphabet (2018 title) challenges.

Book 1: Audio Book Review: If I Run by Terri Blackstock, 4.25
Book 2: Audible Book Review: If I'm Found by Terri Blackstock, 4.25

Book Review: Crown of Souls by Ronie Kendig

I did enjoy this complex, Christian military suspense

Crown of Souls
by Ronie Kendig

File Size: 8885 KB
Print Length: 482 pages
Publisher: Bethany House Publishers (September 5, 2017)
ASIN: B071NJBKFZ
Genre: Christian, Military, Romantic Suspense
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

"Kendig has out done herself."--RT Book Reviews on Conspiracy of Silence
Six months after stopping a deadly plague, Cole "Tox" Russell and his team are enjoying a little rest. That peace is short-lived when a sniper shot hits Tox. The enemy is discovered to be one of their own, a rogue Special Forces team operator.
Alec King is perhaps the only person as skilled as Tox, and he's out for justice. Furious with orders that got his men killed, he intends to make those responsible pay. And he insists Tox join him, believing they are the same breed of soldier.
Afraid his old friend is right, Tox battles a growing darkness within himself as he and his team engage in another deadly encounter with antiquity. It appears Alec is cheating--he's using a mysterious artifact, a crown that history has linked to some of the worst slaughters in humanity. Racing to stop Alec before his vengeance is unleashed, Tox must fight the monster without becoming one.

Review:
Cole’s nickname is “Tox”, short for Toxic, because of his past. Even though he has proven himself in his successful service to his country, there are memories that he hasn’t let go. His name has been cleared of an accusation, but that doesn’t help a lot since the public, including his parents, believe he is dead. He continues to operate with a special ops team under instructions of selected superiors.

The team is enjoying some down time and Tox is spending time with Haven, a woman who loves him and brings light to his life. He doesn’t feel worthy of her and thinks she will hate him if she ever finds out about his past secrets. A sniper shot takes Tox in the shoulder and at first it isn’t clear if the shot was meant for him or Haven. The investigation reveals that the bullet was a message from an old friend and prior team member, Alec.

Soon they discover that Alec has gone rogue and is on a vendetta to destroy men who were enemies of the state and those who obstructed their capture in the past. Further investigation shows that it is not just Alec having gone off the deep end, but apparently he is using an ancient relic, a crown, that is corrupting his mind. The team must find a way to stop Alec before he kills those Tox loves, and many more. Just as importantly, they must get control of the crown so it doesn’t fall into the hands of anyone else.

Ms. Kendig creates a rather involved, complex plot that moves from present day danger to the legend of the crown in ancient, 1170AD Syria. The first jump back in time was a bit confusing but then it became apparent that the author was establishing the history of the crown and the Christian Knight whose mission was to retrieve it. I enjoyed the history and it added to the mystery to be unraveled by Tox and his team.

One problem I had was the author’s inconsistency in us of character names. In one paragraph Tox might be referred to as Tox, Cole and/or Russell. There were other characters where this occurred too and it was confusing to follow especially since I was letting Kindle read to me.

I found the mystical legend to be an interesting vehicle from a Christian author. I am not totally settled on how I feel about the supernatural elements in the story. I have the sense that reading the earlier book in the series may have made this a little easier to follow. Still, I like Ms. Kendig’s strong, intense writing style. I enjoyed the comradery and loyalty of the team, the tension in the romance and the danger and suspense of the plot. I would recommend this to readers who enjoy military suspense with romantic and supernatural elements.

I received this through NetGalley and it qualifies for my NetGalley Challenge.

Book Review and Tour Giveaway: The Fabergé Entanglement by Lesley Meryn and Elle Brookes

This has lots of 'James Bond' type action with sizzling chemistry between the characters.
The Fabergé Entanglement
by Lesley Meryn and Elle Brookes

File Size: 1672 KB
Print Length: 306 pages
Publication Date: July 13, 2015
ASIN: B011M2N7W2
Genre: Action & Adventure, Romantic Suspense
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Sabinne ‘Saber’ Darrieux’s father, the billionaire CEO of Frontenac Global Security has been kidnapped. His ransom is not cash in a numbered offshore account, or a briefcase of Bearer Bonds but something utterly unique, incredibly valuable, and until recently, hidden away from the world.
The kidnapper seems to know Saber very well, and knows that the next day, through her work as an elite translator she will be in the same location as the Object. She must steal the Object and deliver it to the kidnapper to ransom her father.
Adrian Steele, a British Intelligence agent has just come off of two harrowing missions. Upon returning to London for a well-earned rest, he learns that his friend and fellow agent, has been murdered in Moscow, but not before he made use of a unique Object as a mobile ‘drop site’ for the valuable intelligence he was carrying.
The drop site is traveling from Moscow to England. Steele insists on completing the mission to honor the death of his friend, Gerry Cornell.
At an ultra-chic quasi-diplomatic gathering in a mansion in Windsor, England, Saber and Steele meet and find themselves faced with a powerful, undeniable attraction. But at the moment, this compelling attraction is very inconvenient.
In reality they are at the mansion to check out the security arrangements — for their own reasons — to steal the Object, a Fabergé egg worth thirty million dollars. But who will get to the egg first?
Fabergé eggs are very famous for their unique surprises. Saber and Steele are about to be very surprised, indeed.
And when Saber clashes with Steele; more than sparks will explode!

Review:
Sabine is a beautiful, captivating woman who would rather be respected for her skills than her looks. Her family built its fortunes on thievery, but her father has moved the family businesses into legitimate fields. Sabine is one of their experts in security services and works as an elite translator when she is not accessing and improving security systems.

Sabine’s father has been kidnapped and the ransom message directs her to steal a Fabergé egg to exchange for her father’s life. Sabine happens to be attending the function where the egg is displayed. When she sneaks back to steal the item, she is surprised to bump into a handsome man who also wants the egg. Only one of them can succeed and Sabine is desperate.

Adrian Steele is a British Intelligence officer who just learned of a fellow agent’s murder. Although Steele should be going into down time, he pushes for the assignment to complete his friend’s mission. He is to ‘pick up’ a certain Fabergé egg as it has secrets hidden within it.

Steele is struck by a beautiful woman he sees during the party while casing the setting of the eggs. Later he is stunned to find her trying to steal the egg he needs to get. When she wins the first encounter to make off with the egg, Steele is determined to follow her to find out what her purpose is.

Sabine and Steele have zinging chemistry from the moment they see each other across a crowded room. Neither are accustomed to such reactions and it puts them off balance. Their opposing interests in the egg and powerful attraction to each other make for fun cat and mouse, back and forth, attention and dialogue.

The story starts with a little background set up but soon kicks up to fast-paced, pretty much nonstop action. The pair travels from London to LA juggling the egg along the way. Steele is aware that he is not the only one following Sabine. It will be a race to see who gets the egg and whether Sabine can save her father.

Steele is a character who had me thinking of a mix between James Bond and MacGyver. Sabine fits right along like a slick female operative even though she isn’t one. This is strong romantic suspense with a good plot and magnetic characters, I recommend this to readers who enjoy good action and romance with a lot of heat but without unnecessary graphics.

I received this title through iRead Book Tours.

To read more reviews, please visit the authors' page on iRead Book Tours.

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Meet the Authors:

LESLEY MERYN

Enjoyed an exotic, adventure-filled childhood, following her anthropologist father and travel writer mother to the farthest corners of the world. She later took inspiration from her Aunt Sophia Francesca and became the author of romantic adventure novels. She alternates her time between Los Angeles, and a family property located in Yorkshire England.

ELLE BROOKES

She is the author of the first two books of the Time Frame Series, LUST. MECHANICS. MINI COOPER. and SEX. COFFEE. TIME TRAVEL. Loves travel, discovering new foods to try, reading and writing. She currently lives in the central highlands of Costa Rica with her dog Pixie and her hedgehog Quiller.

Connect with the Author: Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter

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Book Review: Wild Justice by M.L. Buchman

I love the strong characters, and mix of action and romance that Mr. Buchman presents.

Wild Justice
by M.L. Buchman

File Size: 1402 KB
Print Length: 313 pages
Publisher: Buchman Bookworks, Inc. (October 17, 2017)
ASIN: B074319W2Y
Genre: Military, Romantic Suspense
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

DELTA FORCE
The best counter-terrorism force on the planet.
SERGEANT DUANE JENKINS
• Elite Delta operator—explosives just make him grin •
AGENT SOFIA FORTEZA
• Top Intel Analyst for The Activity—thinks data is sexy•
The team must face their toughest mission yet: take down a massive human-trafficking ring and a corrupt Venezuelan spy agency—without leaving a trace.
Sofia and Duane.
In common: black sheep of extremely wealthy families, renegades against the status quo.
Differences: tactician vs. explosives expert, thinker vs. pure warrior.
Together: fight to keep their team alive, and their love.

Review:
This story opens with an intense sniper reconnaissance scene where Sofia and Duane meet in a sniper blind. She is a complete surprise to him, while she is expecting a team. Their acerbic banter is engaging from the get go. Sofia is an aloof, intel analyst who wanted to be on site when the special ops team arrives. She is impressed with Duane’s precision in preparation and execution of the take down.

Duane quickly observes that Sofia is smart, skilled and capable in addition to being stunning. His growing interest in her sort of blind sides him and the situation only gets worse as she remains with the team as they zip from one mission to another…to another. Then Sofia invites Duane home where they face another tense situation.

There is plenty of intense action in at least three settings that are well plotted and fast moving. I found the detailed description of Caracus very interesting. There is a good balance with the strong romance element. Duane and Sofia are passionate characters accustomed to their independence as revealed in their difficult family backgrounds. They move cautiously in spite of the obvious draw that escalates into an intense relationship without being overtly graphic. Their conflicted feelings begin to create difficulties in the team dynamics and have to be dealt with.

The author presents technical details on guns, boats and helicopters. This will either be interesting to the reader or can be skimmed after recognizing that it fits the characters. There is some profanity which for me is not necessary but can also be skimmed.

I am always confident that I will find an engaging story with strong romance in Mr. Buchman’s works. The story includes a battle against the terrors and evils of human trafficking. In an afterword the author encourages donations to the causes fighting those evils which is certainly commendable. I recommend this book and this author’s work to romance readers who like military elements and strong male and female characters.

I am pleased to have received this from the author for an honest review.

Book Review: On the Chase (Rocky Mountain K9 Unit Book 2) by Katie Ruggle

I like this author for fast-paced action, sweet romance between likeable characters – and canine characters too.
On the Chase (Rocky Mountain K9 Unit Book 2)
by Katie Ruggle

File Size: 2103 KB
Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca (September 5, 2017)
ASIN: B01ND1K3M6
Genre: Romantic Suspense, Small Town
My Rating 4.25 of 5.0

An Amazon Best Book of the Month
“Vivid and charming.”—CHARLAINE HARRIS, #1 New York Times bestselling author of the Sookie Stackhouse series
Injured in the line of duty,
His orders are simple:
Stay alive.
But when a frightened woman bursts into his life, Hugh and his K9 companion have no choice but to risk everything to keep her safe.
The sole witness to a horrific crime, Kaylee Ramay flees to the Colorado Rockies to start a new life. There she becomes Grace, a dog kennel employee desperately trying to avoid attention—especially from dangerously attractive K9 Officer Hugh Murdoch.
Because Hugh is tall, dark…and nothing but trouble.
Hugh is anxious to get back in the field after an act of heroism left him warming the bench.
Until then, he and his K9 partner Lexi spend their hours teasing the town’s mysterious newcomer. But when their simmering attraction is nearly cut short by a sniper’s bullet, Hugh’s mystery woman must come clean about the secrets she keeps…
Or both of them will pay the price.

Review:
Kaylee is attending a socialite dinner with her almost “Disney Prince” boyfriend when a wrong turn has her uncovering a crime situation. She manages to escape the last-minute grab of the dinner host but is afraid to go home. A friend helps her get out of town, hidden in the small town of Monroe, CO, where she is known as Grace and must find any job to make a living.

Hugh has been injured and is supposed to be recovering and staying out of the field. But ‘cop mode’ runs in Hugh’s blood and he has a hard time sitting home, even under orders that he is not allowed on scene or at the station. Hugh is really stressed since the force is trying to catch a drug smuggler who keeps sliding through his small town of Monroe.

Hugh meets Grace and, besides being stunned by her good likes, he is immediately suspicious and tries digging for the truth. Grace tries to avoid Hugh but they are like magnets drawing together. After several near-death events, Grace reveals her past thinking that the dangerous bad guy has found her. Hugh still thinks the attempts are against him, not her, but he isn’t about to let her problem rest either.

I liked Kaylee/Grace and Hugh right away. The beginning is fun and quickly moves into high adrenaline action. The story has some crazy moments and there are character actions that caused the reaction “what are you thinking?”. I like the other officers, including the canine characters. The ending seemed a little rushed and I would’ve liked a little more detail on the bad guy’s activities. Also, there were a few incidents of unnecessary (IMHO) ugly language. Still, all in all, I completely enjoyed the fast-paced story and strong romantic chemistry without overdone sexual aspects.

I am always comfortable picking up a Katie Ruggle title as I am confident I will get a good story that includes danger, action and sweet romance. I may have to go back and read the other stories in this series so I don’t miss anything. I recommend this series to readers who enjoy a good romantic suspense that is full on action and nice romance.

This type of phrasing (location 2899) had me chuckling:

“In fact, the love semitruck was tumbling down the mountainside at high speed with no brakes, about to run her over, flatten her on the pavement and leave its Hugh-shaped tire tracks all over her heart.”

I received this through NetGalley and it qualifies for my NetGalley Challenge.

Book Review: Wolf Hunt (SWAT Book 6) by Paige Tyler

This is an engaging shifter story with strong passion and a good plotline.

Wolf Hunt (SWAT Book 6)
by Paige Tyler

File Size: 1634 KB
Print Length: 352 pages
Page Numbers Source ISBN: 1492642347
Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca (June 6, 2017)
ASIN: B01MQPZGPV
Genre: Paranormal, Romantic Suspense, Werewolves
My Rating 4.25 of 5.0

A STORM IS BREWING...
Remy Boudreaux is back in his hometown, New Orleans. He's there with three of his fellow Dallas SWAT officers for a week of training with the NOLA PD. On the eve of a tropical storm, Remy and his buddies prowl the French Quarter. One tantalizing scent captures Remy's senses, forcing him to follow until he is face to face with Triana Bellamy—his beautiful high school crush.
After reconnecting, Remy and Triana are close—very. Remy struggles to keep things casual. Ever since his partner—and first love—was killed on the job, he's kept women at a distance.
But when a mysterious wolf pendant ropes them both into danger, Remy's protective instincts kick in. He may have to reveal his true self...and hope Triana accepts him.

Review:
Remy is a Dallas SWAT officer visiting in New Orleans, his home town, for cross training with local cops. No one knows that the four Dallas men have special skills and they have to be careful not to expose their true wolf natures. Remy hits on an enticing scent and pulls his team mates along the night club route as he seeks out the source. Remy is surprised when his nose leads him to his high school crush, Triana.

Triana is a forensic lab tech who is in town to visit her mother. She is thrilled to see Remy as she had a crush on him too. The chemistry between them flares quickly even though Remy has convinced himself he doesn’t want to get too close to any woman since he suffered the loss of a partner whom he had fallen in love with.

Triana’s mother is being pressured to sell her husband’s special wolf pendant. Although she has told the buyer’s agent that she doesn’t have it, he won’t take no for an answer. Thugs return to put more pressure behind the request but they are surprised when Remy steps in to handle the threat. Although they retreat, the threat hasn’t disappeared.

Remy and his team are called upon to assist in a drug raid that leaves a lot of unhappy cops. Meanwhile, a tropical storm is bearing in on the city but these issues raise less havoc than the conflict Remy faces from trying to resist his natural instinct to protect Triana, especially since he won’t admit he could love her.

The story is full of action and steamy passion. It reads quickly and is engaging. The characters are likeable and although the romance is a bit hotter and the scenes a bit more prevalent than I care for, they don’t overshadow a strong plotline. The author does a good job of connecting Triana’s parents’ past with the current situation.

This is the first story I have read in this series and I enjoyed it even as a standalone. I am guessing that the earlier stories are of the other SWAT members finding and protecting their “true mates”. Since I enjoy a good shifter story now and again I will be keeping Ms. Tyler and this series in mind for future reading. I recommend this to readers who enjoy a passionate shifter romance with a strong story.

I received this title from the publisher through NetGalley. It qualifies for my NetGalley Challenge.

Book Review and Tour Giveaway: Ultimate Courage (True Heroes) by Piper J. Drake

This is wonderful romantic (military) suspense with guard dog.

Ultimate Courage (True Heroes)
by Piper J. Drake
File Size: 895 KB
Print Length: 336 pages
Publisher: Forever (July 26, 2016)
ASIN: B017RQP1X0
Genre: Romantic Suspense, Military Romance
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0

LOVE IS AN ACT OF BRAVERY
Retired Navy SEAL Alex Rojas is putting his life back together, one piece at a time. Being a single dad to his young daughter and working at Hope's Crossing Kennels to help rehab a former guard dog, he struggles every day to control his PTSD. But when Elisa Hall shows up, on the run and way too cautious, she unleashes his every protective instinct.
Elisa's past never stays in her rearview mirror for long, and she refuses to put anyone else in danger. But with Alex guarding her so fiercely yet looking at her so tenderly, she's never felt safer . . . or more terrified that the secrets she keeps could put countless people in grave peril. The only way for both to fully escape their demons will take the ultimate act of courage: letting go and learning to trust each other.

Review:
Elisa is on the run from a possessive ex-fiance who views her as his possession. She was flattered by the attention from the wealthy man at first until she realized that she was no longer allowed a career or friends of her own. It took a while but she finally got up the courage to make a break for it. But it seemed that wherever she goes, it isn’t long before he locates her and makes it clear that he is expecting her return. Bad things could happen to anyone who might help her so Elisa remains on the run and tries to stay under his radar sources.

Elisa meets Alex and his spunky daughter at the emergency room. Elisa’s wrist is swollen while Serena, aka Boom, has a broken arm from an accident during martial arts training. Elisa appears at Hope's Crossing Kennels the next day to return a glove that Boom left behind. She shows up just in time to step in as a sorely needed secretary for the office. Alex recognizes that Elisa and is cautious and skittish; behaviors familiar from his own PTSD which he struggles to control. Although Alex doesn’t know Elisa, he is intrigued by the mixture of strength he sees beneath the docile postures. He is willing to step out to help her even as he gives her room to learn to trust him.

As Elisa and Alex grow closer they realize that each has secrets. Can they learn to trust each other and give their growing attraction a chance to deepen? Or will Elisa bolt again as soon as she knows her ex-boyfriend is on her tail?

I really liked these warm characters and was quickly pulled into the story. I also love the dog elements and found Souze, a German Shepherd Dog, to be a great addition. The continuing characters at the kennels provide good support and the addition of the owners of the martial arts academy, a gay couple, are a nice touch too for diversity.

The plot moves along at a good pace with sensual tension and the hint of danger that ultimately appears. This is the sort of romantic suspense/military romance that I really enjoy and I recommend the series and this author. This is the second book I have read in this series and I hope to read more.

I received this title from Hachette, Forever line, through NetGalley for an honest review. This adds to my NetGalley Challenge and "U" in Alphabet Challenge. 

THE TRUE HEROES SERIES
Extreme Honor, #1 -- My Review Link
Ultimate Courage, #2
Absolute Trust, #3

Series Page on Goodreads

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Piper J. Drake (or "PJ") spent her childhood pretending to study for the SATs by reading every interesting novel she could find at the library. After being introduced to the wonderful world of romance by her best friend, she dove into the genre.

PJ began her writing career as PJ Schnyder, writing sci-fi & paranormal romance and steampunk, for which she won the FF&P PRISM award as well as the NJRW Golden Leaf award and Parsec award.

PJ's romantic suspense novels incorporate her interests in mixed martial arts and the military. The True Heroes series is inspired by her experience rescuing, owning and training a variety of retired working dogs, including Kaiser, a former guard dog, and Mozart, who was trained to detect explosives.

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EXCERPT:

   You’ve got to be insane.”
   Elisa Hall took a prudent step—or two—back as she observed the standoff brewing in front of her. A tall man stood between her and the emergency room reception desk, glaring at the woman in scrubs behind it. He stood at an angle to Elisa, so he could see the reception desk to his right and the entirety of the waiting area in front of him.
   He clenched his fists.
   Elisa retreated farther back toward the entrance, releasing her throbbing rist and letting her hands fall to her sides. Harmless. Nothing to see here.
   “I’m sorry, sir, but ambulances take precedence over walk-ins,” the nurse repeated. She was braver than Elisa would’ve been in the face of rage on a level with the man’s at the counter.
   He was dressed in loose fitness shorts and a close-fitting black tee. His hands were wrapped in some cross between tape and fabric.
   “Fighter” might as well have been printed across his very broad, muscular shoulders.
   Actually, now that she was looking, his tee said Revolution Mixed Martial Arts Academy.
   Well, then. Maybe she should just take more ibuprofen and forget about seeing a doctor for her swollen wrist after all. Getting her injury examined wasn’t worth staying anywhere near this guy.
   The nurse glanced quickly at Elisa then returned her attention to the man, her expression softening with sympathy. “As soon as an examination room opens up, we’ll get you in to see the doctor. Please, wait right here and fill out these forms while I help this young lady.”
   Wait, what? The man’s face, and his focus, turned toward her. Oh, great.
   Usually she envied nurses their ability to sympathize with so many patients and make such a difference in their lives. Now was not one of those times.
   Elisa squashed the urge to bolt. Never ended well when she tried it. Better to hold very still, wait until the anger in front of her burned itself out, and pull herself together afterward.
   Instead, she fastened her gaze on the floor and tried to keep her body from tensing visibly. Silently, she sang herself an inane nursery rhyme to take her mind
off the weight of the man’s intense glare. Please, please, let him walk away. They were in public, and even though the emergency room waiting area wasn’t packed, it still had a dozen people scattered around the seats.
   But the expected explosion, shouting, other things . . .never happened. Instead, the man had quieted. All of the frustrated aggression seemed to have been stuffed away, somewhere.
   She swallowed hard. Relief eased her constricted throat, and she breathed slowly for the time being. Leaving remained the best idea she had at the moment.
   But he stepped away from the counter and farther to her right, motioning with a wrapped hand for her to step forward. As she forced her feet to take herself closer to the reception desk—and past him—he gave her room.
   Belatedly, she realized his movement also happened to block her escape route toward the doors. He couldn’t have done it on purpose, could he? But Elisa took a step up to the reception counter and away from him anyway.
   “Yes, dear?” The nurse’s gentle prompt made Elisa jump.
   Damn it. Elisa’s heart beat loud in her ears.
   The nurse gave her an encouraging smile. “Don’t mind him. He’s been here before. I’ve already asked another nurse to bring ice packs as fast as possible. I don’t
mind if he blows off some hot air in my direction in the meantime. I would be upset, too, considering today’s situation.”
   Elisa bit her lip. She could still feel the man standing behind her, his presence looming at her back. He couldn’t possibly appreciate the nurse sharing some of his private information. And he didn’t seem to need ice packs or any other medical attention. He appeared very able-bodied. “It’s none of my business.”
   The nurse placed a clipboard on the counter and wrinkled her nose. “Oh, trust me, the entire waiting room knows what his concern is. Tell me what brought you here.”
   This might be the most personable emergency room reception area Elisa had been to in years, not counting the extremely angry man standing behind her. They were either not very busy—not likely if all the examination rooms were full up—or extremely efficient.
   Efficiency meant she could get in and out and decide what her next steps would be.
   “My wrist.” Elisa held out her left arm, her wrist obviously swollen. “I thought it was just a bad sprain, but it’s been more than a few days and has only gotten worse. I can barely move it now.”
   And if she could have avoided it, she definitely wouldn’t have stopped in to get it treated. An emergency room visit, even with the help of her soon-to-be nonexistent insurance, was still an expense she didn’t need. It’d been six months or so since her last significant paycheck, and she could not afford to extend her insurance much longer. Plus, it might be better not to. One less way to track her.
   “Is that your dominant arm, dear?” The nurse held up a pen.
   Elisa shook her head.
   “Oh, good. Leave your ID and insurance card with me so I can make copies. Take a seat over there to fill out this form and bring it back to me.”
   Okay, then. Elisa took the items and made her way toward the seating area, thankful the nurse hadn’t asked her to give her name and pertinent information verbally. It was always a risk to share those things out loud.
   She’d learned over and over again. There was a chance a slip of information in the unlikeliest of places would find its way to exactly the person she didn’t want
to have it. No matter how careful she’d been over the last several months, it hadn’t been enough yet.
   But it would be. This time. She was learning, and she was free. Every day was a new chance.
   Nodding to herself, Elisa looked for a seat. It might not be crowded, but just about everyone in the room had decided to sit with at least a chair or two buffer between them and the next person. The buffer seats were all that were left, and most of the other people waiting to be seen were either men, or women sitting with men.
   Then she caught sight of a young girl sitting with her legs crossed in the seat next to the big planter in the corner. Slender, but long limbed, the girl had a sweet face and the gangly look of a growing kid. Elisa guessed the girl was maybe eight or nine, could even be ten. Hard to pin down age when the kid had such an innocent look to her. The seat next to her was open, and she was waiting quietly, hugging a big, blue, plush . . . round thing. Whatever it was.
   Elisa walked quickly over, and when the girl looked up at her with big, blue eyes, Elisa gave her the friendliest smile she could dig up. “Mind if I sit next
to you?”
   The girl looked around, her gaze lingering on the reception area behind Elisa for a moment before saying, “Sure.”
   Elisa took a seat.
   After a few silent moments, the little girl stirred next to her. “Are you sick?”
   Well, paperwork didn’t take much of her attention, and it’d been a while since Elisa had been outside of her own head in a lot of ways. Conversation would be a welcome change and a good distraction from the constant worry running in the back of her mind. “Not sick so much as hurt. I won’t give you the plague.”
   A soft, strained laugh. “Same here.”
   Elisa took a harder look at the big, plush toy. It wasn’t for comfort as Elisa’d first assumed. It was supporting the girl’s slender left arm, which was bent at an impossible angle.
   “Oh my god.” Why was she sitting here alone?
   “Don’t worry.” The girl gave her a quick thumbs-up with her right hand. “The doctors are really good here, and I’m in all the time.”
   Such a brave face. She had to be in an insane amount of pain. And here she was encouraging Elisa.
   “Is there someone you should talk to about how often you get hurt?” Elisa struggled for the right tone. It was one she’d heard more than once when people had been concerned for her. Some places had safeguards in place for . . .
   Blue eyes widened. “Oh, it’s not what you’re thinking. Trust me, people ask my dad. And it’s not like that at all. I study mixed martial arts. I get bruised and
bumped all the time, and usually it’s nothing, but Dad always makes me come in to get checked.”
   It was hard not to believe in the earnest tone. But monsters were everywhere.
   The girl gave her a rueful smile, still amazing considering how much pain she had to be in. “This time it wasn’t just a bump.”
   “Which is why they’re going to see you as soon as they can, Boom.”
   Elisa hadn’t heard the man approach. He was just there. He kneeled down in front of the girl then gently tucked an ice pack around her arm while moving it as little as possible. For her part, the girl hissed in pain but otherwise held up with amazing fortitude.
   Elisa would’ve been in tears. The forearm had to be broken. Both bones. It didn’t take a doctor to figure that out. No wonder the man had been mad earlier. She’d want this girl to be seen as soon as possible, too. She dropped her gaze, unable to watch.
   “Here.” An ice pack appeared in her view. “Your wrist should be iced, too. Take down the swelling while you wait.”
   Speechless, Elisa looked up.
   The man’s words were gruff, awkward. His expression was blank. But his eyes—a softness around his eyes—and a . . . quiet in the way he watched her made her swallow and relax a fraction. Her heartbeat stuttered in a fluttery kind of way. A completely different reaction from what she should be experiencing if she were wise. She didn’t know this man and he was probably married. The girl had a mother somewhere. Where? Maybe on her way. This man was just being nice. Maybe.
   Learn from your mistakes. You never know who a person really is.

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