Covert Mission by Rebecca Deel

Synopsis:

Brutally attacked and left for dead was not the way second-generation cop Seth Dixon wanted to start his day. When he's set up for the murder of his confidential informant, Seth figures his chances of scoring a date with his beautiful running partner are slim to none.

After discovering the murder is connected to a deadly militia brewing big plans, the Feds ask Seth to infiltrate the group. His partner is none other than the woman who stars in his dreams, the mysterious Teagan.

Tasked with unraveling a conspiracy leading to the nation's capital, Seth plays a deadly game of cat and mouse with men who will stop at nothing to achieve their goals. Protecting Teagan and preventing an assassination become the most important missions of his life. Failure will be fatal.

Fortress Security operative Teagan Paloni thought she left the past behind, but some shadows refuse to stay buried. After spending years rebuilding her life, she plunges into the depths of her worst nightmare to protect the man she loves. With the stakes higher than ever, Teagan must defeat her demons and foil a plot to throw the country into chaos. One misstep, and Teagan will lose everything, including the man with whom she longs to build a life.

My Review: 5 Stars!

Confession. I was scared to death to start this book. With an all female Black Ops group who blends into the shadows and are considered myths within Fortress Security, my mind could only see them with heroes who were just as tough as them. I could not see them with a principle. It just would not have worked in my eyes. 

After hinting that Teagan had something going on with another operative that never came to fruition, I was kind of disappointed and felt she got gypped. But then I met Seth. 

Y'all. That man perfectly matched who Teagan needed in her life. I fell in love with the way he loved her, the way he treated her, the way he protected her, the way he lifted her up and promised to always be there for her. And Teagan was the same way with him. Their relationship was perfectly balanced. They strengthened each other and were just better together. I seriously loved all things Teagan and Seth! 

One of the things I enjoy about the Fortress Universe is getting to see and catch up with old friends. I loved seeing Phantom, Zane and Brent. I also loved meeting new characters. Seth's team were pivotal in this book and I think they would make a great addition to the Fortress Universe. IYKYK.

Ms. Deel's books have been hit or miss for me this year. If I'm being honest, more misses than hits. But this one was most definitely a hit! I was sucked in from the very beginning and could not put this book down. I absolutely loved it and finished it in less than a day. This book is a prime example of why Ms. Deel is a favorite of mine. I can't wait to see what happens next!

As for my casting, these two are all me and I am absolutely in love with them! What do you think?

Death Wish by Rebecca Deel

 

Synopsis:

Computer programmer Simone Kent's life is finally on the right track. After escaping a traumatic past, she has a job with an elite security company, good friends, and a new assignment with a man who fascinates her. Simone's former life, however, won't stay buried. When an old enemy targets Simone, one man stands between her and certain death.

Fortress Security operative Jesse Phelps is tasked with protecting a sassy computer programmer during an undercover assignment. Although he's playing the role of her boyfriend, his growing feelings for Simone are all too real. After an attempt on their lives, the line between fantasy and reality blurs. Jesse vows to keep Simone safe from harm, no matter the cost to himself. This time, though, Jesse's medical skills and battle readiness might not be enough to save the woman he loves.

My Review: 5 Stars

I'm going to be straight up honest with you guys. I was terrified to start this book. Jesse has been my absolute favorite of the Texas Team since they were introduced way back when. The last several books by Ms. Deel have fallen flat for me and I was picturing this one going the same way. Y'all. I have never been happier to announce how wrong I was! 

What can I say about Jesse and Simone?! I adore these two! From the very beginning they were thrown together for a very dangerous undercover assignment. Jesse didn't want Simone anywhere near the operation, but he knew he couldn't keep her away. He would just have to work extra hard to protect her all the while winning her heart with sweet gestures and swoony kisses. Y'all. These two were absolutely perfect for each other. And it was refreshing to see them working together and watching their relationship develop without any outside interference from his meddling teammates and their wives. IYKYK.

I loved the action-packed, fast pace of this book. It kept me on the edge of my seat and had me reading late into the night. It's been awhile since a book has done that to me. I also loved seeing Sawyer again and getting a glimpse into Artemis. I'm intrigued.  

Death Wish felt more like her older books and reminded me just how much I love them! There are certain books that I reread regularly and this will be one that gets added into the mix. It was good to see that most of the issues that I've had with the newer books were pretty much non-existent, which was a huge relief. I was able to immerse myself in the story and just get lost in all things Jesse and Simone.

However, there were some discrepancies. Jake Davenport is not the medic for Wolf Pack, he's the medic for Phantom. Teagan states from the very beginning that she doesn't drink coffee, only hot chocolate and tea. But later in the book she just has to have coffee strong enough to peel paint. Why are beta readers/editors/proofreaders not catching these? Another thing that bugged me was names. Either names that are being repeated throughout the series (i.e. Sophie, Martin, Coleman), or names that have changed from one book to the next. With the billions of names out there, why are so many of them being repeated across all three series?

But those issues didn't stop me from loving this book! It's so different from what Ms. Deel has been releasing lately and I love that! I'm crossing my fingers that we'll get more of this kind of writing with Sawyer's book. I didn't realize how much I've missed it until I started reading this one. 

And of course I can't forget my casting. I love these two! What do you think? 

Deadly Trap by Rebecca Deel

 

Synopsis:

Following a heartbreaking loss, Brynn Gilbert leaves behind death and danger. Now, she focuses on creating and sharing beauty and peace through gardening and landscaping. But a deadly plan is in the works in Maple Valley, and Brynn is standing in the way. When she becomes a target, one man appoints himself as her protector.

Caleb Montgomery, Fortress Security operative and Morgan County deputy, answers a late-night emergency call and prevents a kidnapping. To his shock, the victim is the woman he's falling for. Caleb races to identify the man targeting Brynn. But when he falls into a deadly trap, only Brynn can save him.

My Review: 3 Stars

Y'all. I'm not going to lie. I'm a bit disappointed after finishing this book. I see all these 5 star ratings and wish I could add one more to them, but I just can't. This is going to be a hard review to write because this book had a lot of potential.

However, after talking to one of my bookish friends, she nailed it right on the head. It just seems like a lot of copying and pasting from past books. The phrases are the same, the food is the same, they all have the same "fears" in the relationships (which are always unfounded if the MC's would just open their eyes), even the bad cop, bad cop routine with zero investigation is repeated (and is definitely getting ridiculous). Add to that the grammatical errors, unnecessary or missed information, and inconsistencies throughout the book and you can see why I'm disappointed. The alpha reader(s)/beta reader(s)/editor(s)/proofreader(s) are not doing a very good job of helping Ms. Deel's books be the best that they can be.

With all that being said, I really did like Brynn and Caleb's story. These two quickly stole my heart with all their swoony kisses and sweet moments. I loved that Brynn was independent, but actually listened to Caleb and others when they were trying to keep her safe. She didn't push back and demand to be included in whatever dangerous situation they were going into. I may or may not have been shocked when that happened. She could be stubborn, but was smart when it mattered most.

I will still continue to read Ms. Deel's books because there are SO many of them that I love and reread ALL the time. I'm holding out hope that her future books will be added to the list of all the ones of hers that I love.

Buried Secrets by Rebecca Deel

Synopsis:

Mindy Long left her painful past behind and is determined to create a new life for herself. All she wants is to grow a successful business and provide a stable, loving home for her nephew. But when she’s kidnapped, Mindy realizes she’ll have to defeat a deadly enemy from her past to be truly free. To accomplish that, she needs the help of a cop with lethal skills.

Despite more than a decade apart, Deputy Levi Montgomery never forgot the woman who stole his heart as a teenager. Now that she’s back in his life, he’ll stop at nothing to win her heart. But when a desperate adversary targets Mindy and her nephew, Levi will break every rule to protect them. His new mission: save his family by any means necessary.

My Review: 3.5 Stars

I've been wanting to get my hands on Mindy's story since she was introduced in Conspiracy. To say she's had a hard life is an extreme understatement. And to say her father and brother were absolutely horrible would be another extreme understatement. Mindy has got to be one of the strongest heroines I've read in a long time. 

Mindy and Levi were high school sweethearts. but their relationship came to an abrupt halt when her father upped and moved their family out of town without a trace. Fast forward several years, and Fate has brought them back together. Life is far from sunshine and roses for both of them. Neither of them forgot the other and now the only question is, will their past tear them apart or bring them closer than ever?

Y'all. I'm not gong to lie. I find it harder to review a favorite author's book when it was good, but not great. There were a few things that kept it from being great for me. The first would be Roman. He's only 5 years old, but the way he spoke was well beyond his years. I struggled with trying to suspend belief but I just couldn't do it. The next would be inconsistencies and grammatical errors. I really crave immersing myself into all the books I read but these kinds of errors take away from the story. They should have been caught by alpha/beta readers and/or editors. 

With that being said, I still enjoyed Mindy and Levi's story. It was fun watching their relationship develop and getting their long awaited HEA. The addition of Roman made it even better. It was also fun catching up with old friends and meeting new ones. I have to admit, I'm a bit nervous for the new team. Not sure why but I am. Haha. I'm looking forward to getting to know them better. 

Collateral Damage by Rebecca Deel

 

Synopsis:

After a second kidnapping attempt upends her life and a friend goes missing, Sage Reynolds partners with her childhood hero to unmask the culprit. When the search for clues leads to an inescapable trap, she’ll need a battle-hardened warrior to escape.

Fortress Security operative Brody Weaver is a protector to the bone. When Sage is targeted by a deadly adversary, Brody volunteers to safeguard the woman he adores. Once a web of betrayal and lies sets them on a collision course with a dangerous human trafficking ring, saving Sage becomes Brody’s only mission.

My Review: 3.5 Stars

Sage and Brody have been best friends since they were teenagers. Both have feelings for each other but were afraid to ruin their friendship if it didn't work out. But the moment danger came knocking on Sage's door, Brody decided the fear of losing her was worse than the fear of rejection. He'd do anything to have the privilege of having Sage by his side for the rest of their lives. But before they can get to their HEA, they'll have to face the danger dogging their heels head on. And no one had better stand in their way.

Y'all. I love the Texas Team! We have seen glimpses of them in other books and now we finally get to see them in action. The Texas Team is a special one. Not only do each of them have their own unique set of skills, they are also the only Fortress Security team to have never been in the military. Their background is all law enforcement. I'm excited to see what they will bring to the teams.

This was a good start to seeing into the lives of the Texas Team. Within this book you get a sneak peek into who two of Brody's teammates will be wooing. Since this book didn't really tie up all the lose ends, I'm guessing it will continue on in their books.

While I enjoyed this book, I have to admit that it was a bit predictable. To me, it seems like the same pattern is followed for every book. I guess in a way it's kind of nice to know what I'm getting into, but I would love to be caught off guard and on the edge of my seat because I don't know what's going to happen next.

Romantic suspense is one of my favorite genres to read. Sadly, there aren't very many clean authors who write what I enjoy. So whenever a book by Ms. Deel is released, my schedule is cleared and real life just ceases to exist until I get to see that HEA at the end of the book. I'm looking forward to seeing more of the Texas Team. It's been a long time coming!

As for my casting.... *dreamy sigh* Love them! What do you think?

Don't Let Go by Rebecca Deel

Synopsis:

An early morning break-in thrusts bakery owner Zoe Lockhart into the center of a crime spree. As the assaults escalate, she turns to a man with lethal skills who longs to shield her from danger. But when Zoe is kidnapped, she fears that the adversary's quest for revenge will destroy her chance for a life with the man she adores.

After months of quietly working his way into a certain baker's life, Fortress Security operative Simon Murray is ready to kick his pursuit of the woman of his dreams into high gear. But before he makes his move, Zoe is attacked and Simon assumes the role of bodyguard as he searches for the guilty culprit. When Zoe falls into enemy hands, Simon will risk everything to save the woman he loves. This time, however, Simon's training may not be enough to thwart a plan for final retribution.

My Review: 4 Stars

Zoe Lockhart has had her eye on Simon Murray since he arrived in Otter Creek. From the moment she laid eyes on the handsome operative, all other men ceased to exist. After several months of getting to know Simon, she's more than ready for him to ask her out. If he doesn't do it soon, she might have to take matters into her own hands.  

Simon Murray is more than ready to finally pursue the woman of his dreams. He knows that if he doesn't make his move soon, some other man might steal the beautiful Zoe away from him. Determined to make his intentions known, Simon shows up at her bakery only to see someone running away from it and then hearing a vehicle racing away.

After discovering that Zoe has been attacked, Simon goes into protective mode. He doesn't know who would want to hurt Zoe or why, but he's determined to find out. But when Simon hears of other attacks and murders, he has to wonder if it's him or Zoe the perpetrator is after. 

Determined to keep everyone in their lives safe, Bravo will need to enlist the help of other Fortress Security teams to keep their families safe while they go on the hunt for the person responsible for the latest crime spree in Otter Creek. 

With everything that has happened, Simon can only hope and pray that Zoe doesn't decide that his life is too much to handle and runs far away from him. But he needn't worry too much. Zoe is just as far gone as he is. They need to work together to find the person messing with their lives and bring them down so they can move forward to their HEA.  

Holy. Wow! You guys! Talk about fast paced and action pact! Once I started this book, I had an extremely hard time putting it down! I kept telling myself just one more chapter... just one more chapter. Needless to say, I stayed up way too late and woke up way too early just so I could get in as much reading time as possible. I absolutely adored Zoe and Simon! Their story is definitely one of my favorites! It's so good! 

So... y'all know how much I LOVE Ms. Deel's books and I hate to say anything negative about them. But I've noticed that there are several inconsistencies and grammatical errors throughout most of her books. A lot of these should have been caught by her beta readers/proof readers. It's getting to be a bit distracting for me. One of the inconsistencies that seems to happen in a lot of her books are the "I love yous". Their first "I love you" seems to happen twice. Once midway through the book and again at the end because the first one is forgotten. It gets frustrating when it happens all. the. time. Had the inconsistencies and grammatical errors been fewer, I would've definitely given this book 5 stars. 

With that being said, I'm still loving both of her series! I am always looking for the next book to be released. I kid you not, I have been stalking Amazon for the last two weeks looking for this book. The one day I don't look, I get an email while out on my walk saying she has a new release. Let's just say my walk was cut short that day and I made a really quick dinner so I could dive back in to Otter Creek. It's always a fun place to visit! 

When people ask me who some of my favorite authors are, Ms. Deel is definitely mentioned to them. She has a way of grabbing me and not letting me go until I have finished the book. I am definitely looking forward to her next book baby!

And of course no review of mine is complete without a casting. What do you think?!

Relentless by Rebecca Deel

Synopsis:

A friend's desperate plea launches Piper Reece on a quest to bring down a crime boss. But bringing a killer to justice will take more than determination. When she's attacked, Piper realizes she needs a defender as relentless as he is deadly. Good thing she knows the perfect man for the job.

Fortress operative Liam McCoy returns home from an extended missions with one goal in mind--winning Piper's heart. His protective instincts kick into overdrive when she's thrust into the crosshairs of an enemy with roots in her past.

Trained by the best in the business and with skills honed in the hottest firefights, saving Piper will test Liam to his limits. He'll need every ounce of cunning and courage to survive the battle and explore a future with the woman of his dreams.

My Review: 5 Stars

It's been 3 years since Piper Reece has had any contact with people from her home town. But when she receives a call from her ex-boyfriend telling her that he's in trouble and it'll be up to her to help bring down a Mob Boss, she's thrown back into a world that she does not want to be in. She just hopes that along the way, she doesn't lose the man that she's been falling in love with. 

Liam McCoy and Bravo have been on a month long assignment and, now that he's home, he can't wait to see Piper again. It's been way to long since he's seen or talked to the woman that he's been falling in love with. But when he stops by her work to see it's closed early, the back door is left ajar and her purse sitting in the alley, he knows something is terribly wrong. 

Liam knows time is of the essence. He has to find Piper before it's too late. Enlisting the help of Bravo and fellow Fortress Security tech guru, Zane, Liam hits the ground running and won't stop until Piper is back by his side. 

But their problems are just beginning. Not only is Piper's past coming back to haunt them, so is Liam's. They'll have to work closely with Bravo and the Texas team if they have any chance of making it out alive. The more obstacles Piper and Liam face, the more they fall in love with each other. They can't see their lives without the other in it. They will fight tooth and nail to get the HEA they deserve.

Oh my gosh! You guys! I am seriously loving this series! I'm to the point that I don't even read the synopsis of the books... I just buy them and start reading. I absolutely adored Piper and Liam! They love fiercely and are extremely loyal. There isn't anything they won't do for those they love. Once I started their story, I could not put it down! It was SO good! 

Ms. Deel has quickly climbed to the top of my favorites list. I find myself devouring her books the moment I find out about a new release and then not so patiently waiting for her next one. I know whatever she releases will definitely be giving me a break from reality. I can't wait to see what she has in store for us next! If you haven't read anything by her yet, I just have to say, you are definitely missing out! If you're a fan of romantic suspense then I highly recommend her books!

And what do you think of this casting? Me? I love it! But I may be a bit bias... ;) Hehe.

Content: Mild violence. Clean... just swoony kisses!

SEAL's Promise by Rebecca Deel

Synopsis:

Narrowly escaping a terrorist attack, Rachelle Carter believes the threat is over until continued assaults prove the danger's real. With escape impossible, her survival lies in the hands of a battle-hardened Fortress Security operative. But his skill and experience may not be enough to defend Rachelle against a man determined to eliminate her.

Cal Taylor's plan to win Rachelle's heart is put on hold when she's caught in a firefight. Although he vows to protect her, he soon discovers that no place is safe. After Rachelle falls into enemy hands, saving the woman he loves might require Cal to make the ultimate sacrifice.

My Review: 5 Stars

Action-packed and intense from the very beginning! 

Cal Taylor is a SEAL to his core. He's a protector. So when he finds out that Rachelle Carter, a fellow Fortress employee he's been having coffee dates with for a year, is in the middle of a terrorist attack in Antigua, he'll do what ever it takes to rescue her and bring her home where she belongs. 

But no one expected trouble would follow them home. With an attempted frame job and a few attacks on their principals, Cal and the newly formed Wolf Pack will have to look into the possibility that things may not be as they appear.

Determined to keep Rachelle safe, Cal and his team work together to flush out the people behind everything. But the deeper they go, the worse things get. They'll have to rely on each other if they're all going to make it out alive. 

*dreamy sigh*

Oh how I loved this book! It's no secret that when Ms. Deel releases a new book, I will literally drop whatever I'm reading to read it. From the moment I picked up SEAL's Promise, I knew I was going to be in trouble. There would be hardly any eating or sleeping for me. Why? Because after months and months of waiting, we FINALLY got Cal's story! And let me tell you, it did NOT disappoint! 

I absolutely adored Cal and Rachelle's relationship. Watching their relationship develop, their trust build, their need to do what's best for the other, their strength grow, their desire to put each other's happiness first and all those sizzling kisses had this girl's heart melting into a big ol' puddle of goo. 

I always love seeing characters from previous books make an appearance. It feels like a family reunion. With every new book I read in the Fortress Security and Otter Creek series, I always want to go back and reread the previous books.. or at least my all time favorites. It's no wonder that Ms. Deel is at the top of my favorites list and an auto-buy author for me. I can't wait to see what she has in store for us next! 

And of course there's no way I can forget my casting! What do you think?

Security Breach by Rebecca Deel

Synopsis:

On the run for more than a year, Emma Tucker narrowly escapes another attempt on her life. When the U.S. Marshals fail to keep her safe, Emma turns to the most dangerous man she knows, a Navy SEAL who stole her heart before a serial killer murdered her family.

After Sheriff David learns the woman he adores is the target of a vicious killer, he’s determined to free Emma from the threat and resume his campaign to win her heart. When they fall into the hands of the enemy, David’s skill and experience might not be enough to help them survive the killer’s trap.

My Review: 5 Stars

Hello new series! Maple Valley features the Montgomery brothers who made their appearance in SEAL's Promise. Five single brothers, all former military and all apart of the Sheriff's department in the small town of Maple Valley? Wouldn't you be screaming for a new series?! I know I was! But y'all... 

What in the world just happened?! Holy crow Batman! Talk about intense and on the edge of my seat! Every time I went to put the book down to get a few things done, something happened in the book to make me keep reading. I was just about to put my book down for the night and finish it in the morning when all of the sudden... PLOT TWIST! After that, sleep was the last thing on my mind. I just HAD to know what happened!

I'm sure everyone knows by now that small town, second chance romances are one of my all time favorites. This one did not disappoint. Emma knew, and David hoped, they would be reunited again. I really enjoyed getting to know Emma and David and watching them rekindle their relationship. You could tell from the very beginning that the time they spent apart only made their feelings for each other grow stronger. I loved that they both did everything in their power to not only take care of each other, but protect and love each other fiercely. They're definitely some of my favorite characters. 

And speaking of favorite characters... I loved seeing old friends from both the Fortress Security and Otter Creek series! I think that's one of the things I love most about Ms. Deel's books. We always get to see characters from her previous books. I love seeing how their HEA's continue. I also loved the setups for more books in the Maple Valley series. I can't wait to read them! But I'm secretly hoping that we'll get Rafe's book next. I have been dying for his book!

Ms. Deel knocked this one out of the park! It's definitely one of my favorite books of hers and I'll be rereading it many, many times. I can't wait to see what she has in store for us next!

As for my casting, it was a bit hard with no descriptions so this one was all me. What do you think? Personally, I love them! Haha.

Conspiracy by Rebecca Deel

 

Synopsis:

When Police Chief Blair Hoffman is injured during an ambush, she’ll leave no stone unturned to find a would-be killer determined to finish the job. To unmask the culprit before he succeeds, Blair accepts the help of a Navy SEAL turned cop with a dark past and deadly skills.

Deputy Sheriff Elliot Montgomery has avoided a distracting Blair Hoffman for two years. But when someone places a target on her back, Elliot’s protective instincts override his common sense. After he becomes Blair’s personal bodyguard, the threats escalate. But Elliot never backs down from a fight. With danger looming, he’ll need every ounce of cunning and courage to save himself and the woman who refused to leave him alone in the darkness.

My Review: 4 Stars

Y'all. I don't even know where to begin with this review. It's going to be one of those that's hard to write because I don't want to give anything away!

From the moment I picked up this book, I did not want to put it down! Talk about intense and action-packed! I was sucked in from the very beginning!

Blair and Elliot have had feelings for each other for the last two years. But for reasons only known to Elliot, a relationship between the two of them just wasn't possible. But all of that changed when Blair was ambushed on the job and Elliot's protective instincts took over. Unable to hide their feelings for each other any longer, they'll have to work together to find out who's responsible for all the danger plaguing their every move. 

Guys, that's all I'm willing to say about the actual story. I am not taking an chances of accidentally divulging the entire plot. Trust me, this is something you're going to want to read and figure out on your own! 

What I can say is that I absolutely loved Blair and Elliot. These two were absolutely perfect for each other. They are fiercely loyal and protectors to the core. Their banter and flirting had me letting out little dreamy sighs throughout the book. Their chemistry was hot, hot, hot! I couldn't get enough of these two! 

Since I clearly loved this book, why only 4 stars you ask? There were several typos and grammatical errors throughout the book. I tried to ignore them but some of them were just too distracting. The other reason is the book just ended. I really hate it when that happens! There was so much focus on one particular aspect and we didn't even get to see it. I was super bummed. 

All in all, I really did love this book. I may have been hesitant going into it because the last couple of books kind of fell flat for me, but this one was a breath of fresh air. Blair and Elliot are definitely one of my favorite couples of Ms. Deel's. I can't wait to see what she has in store for us next! 

As for my casting, y'all. These two are pretty dang perfect in my opinion. What do you think?

Shadow Guardian by Rebecca Deel

Synopsis:

While on a diplomatic mission, Mercy Powers is attacked and taken hostage by terrorists. Although a team of black ops warriors rescues her, Mercy's troubles are just beginning. The terrorists aren't giving up, and now she and her family have a bounty on their heads. But having already survived a devastating loss, Mercy has more reason to live than ever and refuses to surrender to a group of men determined to destroy her new life. Instead, she turns to the warrior who captured her heart for help.

On an overdue break, Fortress Security operative Nico Rivera and his team of Shadow warriors are called to duty to rescue the president's niece. With his team at his back, Nico snatches Mercy from the hands of a deadly terrorist group. After returning home, the danger to Mercy escalates. Nico searches for the enemy, but instead of learning answers, he finds more questions. When the hunt leads him to Capitol Hill, Nico takes on the Washington elite in his quest to protect Mercy. With time running out, he must uncover the power behind the plot before the woman he adores pays the ultimate price.

My Review: 5 Stars

Mercy Powers was on a diplomatic mission in Mexico for her uncle when she's kidnapped by terrorists. She is interrogated and beaten but knows that if she gives them the information they're after, she'll be of no use to them. She'll just have to stay strong until she can figure out a way to escape the terrorists. 

Nico Rivera and the Shadow Unit had been on a much needed break for a couple of days when they were tasked to rescue the President of the United States niece. They were successful in getting Mercy out of the hands of the Scorpions but their troubles are just beginning. 

Once they return to the US, they receive word from Zane that Mercy has a bounty on her head. The Scorpions are desperate to get her back. With the attempts being made on her life and her house being trashed, Nico becomes even more determined to protect Mercy. There's just something about this beauty that intrigues him. She lights up the darkest parts of his life. 

Mercy can't remember the last time she felt this safe. She knows that Nico and his team would sacrifice their own lives to protect her. She's determined to do whatever she can to help figure out why the Scorpions are after her. Both Nico and Mercy have too much to live for to let the Scorpions win. No one will rest until the Scorpions are dismantled completely and Mercy is safe. Once that happens, then they can look to the future and their HEA.

*dreamy sigh*

This book. This book right here... wow! Where do I start?! Talk about being sucked in! Once I started this book, I couldn't put it down. I may or may not have forgotten to eat while reading.. ;) I absolutely loved Nico and Mercy! They were perfect for each other and balanced each other out. I am hoping the rest of the Shadow unit get their own books! And of course seeing other characters from previous books was an added bonus. :) 

I am SO glad I discovered Ms. Deel! I have devoured her books over the last month and have to admit that I'm sad I'm all caught up! I can't wait to see what she has in store for us next!

I have to say that I seriously adore these two for Mercy and Nico! What do you think?!

 

Content: Mild violence. Talk of rape but nothing happens. No swearing. Clean romance.. just swoony kisses!

Vendetta by Rebecca Deel

Synopsis:

Seven years ago, Marcus Lang made a choice that cost him everything, but he rebuilt his life and became a vital part of Otter Creek. Although his past isn't dead, Marcus will be if he is unable to stop one man's quest for revenge. If he fails, his life won't be the only one forfeit. He will lose the woman he longs to make his. Pursued by a threat he can't escape, Marcus refuses to let history repeat itself no matter the cost.

Paige Jensen excels at refereeing teenagers and raising funds for the community center. But someone sees her as a problem that must be eliminated. As the danger escalates, she realizes the enemy won't stop until she's dead. When the man she loves won't allow Paige to face the threat alone, he becomes a target.

Desperate to end the violence before more innocents are hurt, she and Marcus appeal to Fortress Security for aid in defeating a foe with a long reach and deep pockets. But their nemesis doesn't work alone and is ready to spring his trap.

My Review: 5 Stars

Marcus Lang has a past. A past that very few people know about. He moved to Otter Creek six years ago for a fresh start. As pastor for Cornerstone Church, he has grown to love not only the small town, but everyone one in it. Sure there are people who don't make life easy, but it's nothing compared to what he's running from. As long as he can keep his secret from falling into the wrong hands, he can see staying in Otter Creek permanently. 

Paige Jensen runs the Community Center in Otter Creek and she loves everything about her job. She knows that the work she's doing is extremely important. The only drawback is she's the only full time employee. For several months she has been trying to prove to the City Council that she needs another full time employee but they refuse to even entertain the idea. They claim there's no money in the budget and unless she gets her grandma to sell their B & B, there won't be any money anytime soon.  

While working late in the Community Center, Paige is attacked and almost killed. Had it not been for Marcus checking up on her, she wouldn't be walking away with just bruises and a concussion. But when a body of one of her teens is discovered in the Community Center and another attempt is made on her life, Marcus has to wonder if his past is finally catching up to him or is there another player in the game that they don't know about.

With the help of Fortress Security and Durango, Marcus and Paige are put into protective custody until they can figure out who is after them and why. One thing is for sure, neither one of them will be going down without a fight. It took them years to admit their feelings for each other and with their new found love, they are determined to get their HEA. 

I have been extremely curious about Marcus's story for awhile now. It's hinted at in previous books that he has some kind of secret and I thought I knew what it would be, but I really didn't see this one coming. It was fun to learn more about Marcus and the woman who finally captured his heart. Paige is just what he needed. They balance each other out perfectly. Their story is a friends to lovers and it's really sweet. I loved that they got each other and knew what the other needed just by looking at them. This is definitely one of my favorites in this series! 

I honestly don't know what I'm going to do when I'm finished reading these series. I see a serious book hangover in my future! Hopefully Ms. Deel will be releasing more soon! There are still so many people I want to know about! :)

And let's just take a minute to admire these two. I love them! What do you think?

Content: Mild violence. No swearing. Clean romance... just swoony kisses!

Resurgence by Rebecca Deel

Synopsis:

Fortress operative Adam Walker knows hardship and pain, specializes in navigating behind enemy lines, and never leaves a man behind. When the Special Forces Marine is asked to rescue a woman who helped save him, he doesn't hesitate to lay his life on the line to return the favor. Although Adam believed his past was buried, he learns the enemy has risen from the ashes. Danger stalks not only Adam, but the people who mean everything to him, including the woman he loves. To destroy his nemesis for good, the Marine must take Veronica into the enemy's lair.

DEA Agent Veronica Miles is used to working alone in enemy territory for weeks at a time. But on this mission, something goes horribly wrong, and she's taken captive. Held prisoner for days, Veronica is rescued by an operative she once aided but returns home to suspicion and accusations from her co-workers. Forced to surrender her badge and weapon, Veronica has no one to turn to except the man who saved her life. Together, she and Adam will have to face their worst nightmares and defeat a foe obsessed with revenge. This time, failure will be fatal.

My Review: 4.5 Stars

Adam Walker was undercover in an organization that was ran by one of the biggest drug kingpins. When one of his own betrays him and leaks the information to the head of the organization, Adam finds himself a prisoner and is tortured for several days. 

When Veronica Miles stumbles upon information regarding Adam's capture, she reaches out to one of her contacts at Fortress Security with everything she knows. They come up with a plan to rescue him and bring him home. But with everything that Adam endured, it's going to take a while to recover. 

Through mutual acquaintances, both Adam and Vonnie have kept up with the others progress over the last year. Although they have never met, and neither of them know the other has been keeping tabs, they have grown to care for each other from afar. So when word spread that Vonnie was in trouble, Adam jumped at the opportunity rescue her. After all, if it wasn't for her, he would be dead. 

Once Vonnie is rescued and returns home to the US, they discover that her mentor had been killed in a car accident. Vonnie doesn't believe it was an accident. When emails start coming in incriminating her as a traitor, she knows that she's being setup but by who and why? 

If Vonnie is going to uncover the truth, she'll need the help of Adam and his friends at Fortress Security. As they work together to bring down the person responsible for everything, Adam and Vonnie get to know one and another and grow closer together. It isn't long before their feelings turn into something more. But when an enemy from the past resurfaces, they know they will need to bring them down before they can look to the future and their HEA.

*dreamy sigh*

Guys! Can I just tell you how much I enjoyed Adam and Vonnie's book?! It was fast paced and sucked me in from the beginning. I loved seeing Adam get his HEA. If anyone deserved it.. it was him. I loved seeing characters from the previous books working together. They really are family. I can't wait to start Jake's book!

Ms. Deel is an amazing storyteller! I know that once I start one of her books, I'll be sucked in and will not get one thing done until I finish the book. I am so glad I found! There's just something about finding new authors you adore! I can't wait to read more by her!

I absolutely adore these two for Vonnie and Adam! What do you think?

Content: Mild violence. Talk of rape but nothing happens. No swearing. Clean romance.. just swoony kisses!

Deadly Game by Rebecca Deel

Synopsis:

Following a desperate call for help, Rowan Scott finds her sister bleeding out and her niece missing. As the owner of a coffee shop, Rowan doesn't have the skills to navigate a world of shadows where nothing is as it seems and one mistake will cost her everything. With few clues and her niece's life on the line, Rowan turns to a friend experienced in combat and subterfuge. He's her only hope to bring her niece home before a murderer strikes again.

Tasked with a special assignment in a terrorist hotbed, Fortress CEO Brent Maddox doesn't have time to take on another project. But when the woman who captured his heart asks for help, Brent can't refuse. The Navy SEAL is no stranger to tough missions, but none threatens to melt his iron control until Rowan and her niece end up in the hands of his enemy. Brent vows to rescue the family he has claimed as his own from the hands of a ruthless killer, no matter the cost.

My Review: 5 Stars

Rowan Scott is the owner of Coffee House and has had her eye on Fortress Security's CEO, Brent Maddox, for about a year. She couldn't be happier when she discovers that he's had his eye on her as well. But the night of their first date, Rowan's world changes forever. 

Her sleazy brother-in-law is in business with some shady people who had no qualms killing him and his wife and kidnapping their daughter, Alexa. Rowan is all the little girl has left and she'll stop at nothing to bring her niece home safely. And in order to do that, she's going to need to place all her trust in Brent.

Brent has several different critical missions going on at the same time. The last thing he needs is to add another one into the mix. But when Rowan and Alexa are the mission, he will do everything in his power to keep them safe and bring the little girl home where she belongs. 

But that doesn't mean it's going to be easy. Several outside forces are at play and pulling the Fortress Security operatives in all different directions. But when Brent claims Rowan and Alexa as his own, Brent's team will go above and beyond to make sure he gets his family and a HEA.  

Wow! This book is awesome! I had the hardest time putting it down! I found myself sneaking in reading whenever I could. I was curious about the woman who would capture Brent's heart and Rowan did not disappoint! She's an extremely strong individual that will do anything for those that she loves. She'll be their rock in times of need. Her and Brent really balanced each other out. And I loved Alexa's interaction with Brent! Talk about melting my heart! It was the cutest thing ever! 

I am still really enjoying Ms. Deel's books. They just keep getting better and better! I can't wait to read the rest of both series!

As for my casting... I love these two! What do you think?

Content: Mild violence. No swearing. Clean... just swoony kisses!

In Plain Sight by Rebecca Deel

Synopsis:

On the heels of a life-changing diagnosis, concert pianist Darcy St. Claire is on a quest to reinvent herself. While renovating a Victorian house and opening a restaurant, she becomes the target of a killer. As the attempts on her life intensify, Darcy grows more determined. No murderer is going to chase her from her home and destroy her new dreams. But more than her livelihood and life are at stake. She could lose the man she loves.

A favor for a friend lands Delta medic Rio Kincaid in the center of a murder investigation, a crime the killer doesn't want solved. As the danger to Darcy escalates, the Delta warrior vows to protect the woman whose music pulled him from the edge of darkness. When the enemy's desperate ploy snares Darcy in his trap, one wrong move will cost Rio everything--his life and the woman who captured his heart.

My Review: 5 Stars

When Darcy St. Claire received the medical diagnosis that would change her life forever, she decides she will not let it get her down. She has so much life left to live and she's determined to make the most of it. 

Moving to Otter Creek to open up a deli that specializes in wraps was just what the doctor ordered. She has always loved cooking and experimenting with food in her spare time. She just hopes the folks of Otter Creek will give her a shot. 

Rio Kincaid has been in Otter Creek for a few months. He sees all of his teammates meeting and falling in love with their soulmates and he can't help but be a little envious. What he wouldn't give to meet that special someone and be able to spend the rest of their lives together. 

When fellow Fortress Security operative, Trent St. Claire, asks if Rio will keep an eye on his sister while he's away for a mission he readily accepts. He knows that a distracted operative can be dangerous and cost other's their lives. He'll do whatever he can to make sure Trent's sister is safe. 

But when they discover the previous owner of the house was murdered and someone has been breaking in to the Victorian home, Rio knows none of it was a coincidence. He'll  need not only the help of the Otter Creek Police Department but the help of Fortress Security and his team, Durango, to figure out who is behind everything and why. He has fallen for Darcy and there is no way he will lose her now. She has saved him more times than she will ever know. Now it's his turn to save her. He is determined to give them a HEA together... if she'll have him. 

This should come as no surprise to you guys but... I loved this book! Darcy and Rio were amazing! I loved that Darcy was feisty and could hold her own. I also loved the Rio always wanted to protect her but knew that he couldn't treat her like a fragile piece of China. He knew her limitations and did his best to let her handle things... to an extent. He is, after all, an alpha male who would do anything to protect the woman he loves. 

I loved seeing the other couples in previous books. That's one of the things I love about reading a series based in a small town. It's always fun to catch up on their lives. I also loved seeing the setup for Trent's book. I can't wait to read his story. I have a feeling he is going to fall hard! Hehe. 

The more I read this series, the more I fall in love! The books just keep getting better and better! I can't wait to see what Ms. Deel has in store for us next! I can already tell you I'm going to be sad to see this series come to an end!

And let's just take a moment to admire these two... *dreamy sigh* I think they are perfect!

Content: Mild violence. No swearing. Clean romance... just swoony kisses!  

Wheels of Justice by Rebecca Deel

Synopsis:

After losing her home and business in a flood, photographer Claire Walker relocates to Nashville, determined to rebuild her life. Two men kidnap Claire in the middle of the night in a scheme to force her captive brother to divulge classified information. When she escapes, Claire calls the one man who can help her evade the kidnappers and save her brother.

Navy SEAL Zane Murphy had his career mapped out until an IED changed his life forever. A warrior to his bones, now he hunts terrorists in the corridors of cyberspace for Fortress Security. Although he hasn't been in the field for two years, Zane can't refuse a plea for aid from a missing operative's sister.

When he's accused of betraying his fellow operatives, Zane vows to clear his name, unmask the real traitor, and protect Claire. The SEAL calls on friends and an elite Delta unit to assist in the mission to save Claire's brother. With time running out, Zane has no choice but to take the woman who captured his heart into the enemy's stronghold.

My Review: 5 Stars!

Claire Walker relocated to Nashville after her home and business flooded. Being an in demand photographer has it's advantages. She can do her job from anywhere. 

While her brother, Adam, is away on one of his missions for Fortress Security, Claire is kidnapped. In her line of business it pays to be observant and pay attention to details. Her only thoughts are to get away from Thug One and Thug Two. Once she escapes their clutches, her only move is to call Zane Murphy, the one person her brother insisted will keep her safe at all times. If her brother trusts him, then she'll trust him... no matter what. 

While in the military, Zane Murphy's team was hit by an IED leaving him the sole survivor... and in a wheelchair. But he is a SEAL to his bones and can't see himself doing anything else. He loves his job as communications expert and tech guru at Fortress Security. He might not be able to protect his teammates while fighting along side them in the field, but he will do what ever he can to keep the operatives and principals in the field safe from behind his computer screen. 

When he receives a call from Claire informing him that she's in trouble, he doesn't have to think twice about protecting her. He will do everything he can to make her safe and keep her out of the hands of the jerk who's holding her brother hostage. 

But one look at Claire and Zane knows he's in trouble. There's something about Claire that has drawn him in. For the first time in a long time, a beautiful woman is looking at him and seeing the man that he is... not the man in the chair. He doesn't dare believe that someone like Claire would ever fall in love with him. But Claire is a rare gem and one that Zane doesn't want to let go. If they can rescue her brother and get out of the enemy's clutches alive, he will do everything in his power to show her that he can be worthy of her. He will treat her like the treasure she is for the rest of their lives.  

Wow! All I can say is WOW! I absolutely LOVED this book! I had the hardest time putting it down! It took my kindle falling and hitting me in the face a couple of times before I would put it down for the night. I kept telling myself... just one more chapter. Haha. And of course I just had to wake up earlier than usual just so I could finish the book. 

I have loved Zane from the very beginning and was dying to read his book! I knew it would take one special lady to capture his heart and Claire is absolutely perfect! She is a feisty little spitfire! Oh how I loved seeing her protectiveness come out when people weren't treating Zane the way he deserved to be treated. These two are definitely a favorite of mine! 

I am really loving these series! And I am so glad I stumbled upon Ms. Deel. I haven't been able to put her books down! I'm looking forward to reading more by her!

I have been dying to cast Claire and Zane! I absolutely adore these two! What do you think?!

Content: Mild violence. No swearing. Clean romance... just swoony kisses! 

Best Served Cold by Rebecca Deel

Synopsis:

U.S. Marshal Stella Grayson always wanted to be a cop, but after an ambush, she's framed for murder and forced to surrender her gun and badge. Targeted by law enforcement and a killer seeking revenge, she may lose everything she values, including her freedom and the man she loves.

Recently returned from a mission, Delta warrior Nate Armstrong's plans for a slow campaign to win his girlfriend's heart are derailed when Stella is arrested for murder. Nothing will stop him from proving her innocence. Accused of detonating a bomb, Nate calls on his Delta teammates for aid in unmasking the killer before more people die. But the enemy is determined to accomplish his goal and Stella stands in his way. When the marshal is abducted, freeing her may be Nate's final mission.

My Review: 5 Stars

U.S. Marshal Stella Grayson and her partner Deke Creed have been tasked with finding a mole in their office. Their boss, Ty, doesn't know who he can trust so everything has to be done off the books. In the midst of their investigation, Stella is attacked and her boss killed. Things just went from bad to worse. The only people she knows she can trust is her boyfriend, Nate, and his team. 

Durango Team member Nate Armstrong has just returned from a long mission and can't wait to see his girlfriend again. When he receives a call in the middle of the night informing him Stella has been attacked, he drops everything to race to her side. He doesn't know what's going on but he'll do everything in his power to figure it out. 

When ballistics come back on the murder weapon and it's registered to her, she's placed under arrest and booked. Nate knows that Stella would never do the things she is being accused of doing. If they are going to figure out who is behind framing her, he will need not only the help of Durango but all of Fortress Security. 

But the closer they get to figuring out who's behind the leak and the killings, the more danger arises. Will Stella and Nate be able to stop whoever is behind everything before it's too late? One things for sure, they won't go down without a fight. They are determined to get their HEA. 

I'm not going to lie. I was hesitant to read this book. The synopsis and the first page let me know that this was going to be intense. I am loving this series but I don't want to get burnt out on reading them in one straight shot. But once I got going, I didn't want to put it down! I stayed up way too late and woke up way too early just to finish it. I'll definitely keep reading. There are so many characters that I want to see get their HEA! I can already tell you I'm going to be sad when this series ends!

I'm not sure if you can tell or not but I am still loving Ms. Deel's books! There are lots for me to catch up on!

And what do you think about this casting?! *dreamy sigh*

Content: Mild violence. No swearing. Clean romance.. just kisses. 

Payback by Rebecca Deel

Synopsis:

A mission from his past threatens his future.

A stalker has his sights set on art history teacher Ivy Monroe. Still recovering from a relationship with an abusive former boyfriend, she's determined to win this fight over fear and intimidation. No one has the right to cage her again. When Ivy is nearly killed, she takes refuge in the arms of the one man she trusts.

Elite Delta sniper Alex Morgan now trains bodyguards for Fortress Security. When his father is shot, the feds are convinced Alex is guilty of attempted murder. Determined to clear his name and find the shooter, he travels to Washington, D.C. with Ivy and his Delta unit.

He learns someone leaked information from one of Durango's missions and now he and his unit are targets. Worse, Ivy is in danger. Battling his family and the feds, Alex and his friends race the clock to unmask the shooter before he strikes again. When Ivy falls into the hands of the enemy, nothing will prevent Alex from saving the woman who owns his heart.

My Review: 5 Stars

Ivy Monroe moved to Otter Creek to get away from her abusive ex-boyfriend. But even though she's in a new city and he's in jail, she still lives in fear. She no longer trusts men and shrinks away when ever they are near.

While in protective custody with her cousin, Del, she meets Alex Morgan. She can't explain it but there is something different about him. He's calm, quiet, and fiercely protective of Ivy. He's the only man she feels comfortable around.

Alex knows that Ivy has been put through the wringer by her ex-boyfriend and now suffers from PTSD. While some look at her and see victim, he looks at her and sees a fighter, a survivor. He just needs to help his angel see what he sees.

Just when life is getting back on track and moving forward, Alex's past comes back to haunt them. A visit from the FBI has him going back to Washington, D.C. to a family who disowned him 15 years ago when he decided to join the military. Ivy refuses to let him face his past alone. She will stand by his side and will be his rock when he needs one the most.

But when the threat gets too close to Ivy and Durango, Alex will do everything in his power to keep everyone safe. For the first time in his life he has too much to live for and he refuses to let anyone stand in the way of his happiness and his happily ever after.

*dreamy sigh*

Oh my gosh! You guys! I absolutely LOVED this book! Alex and Ivy are my new favorites! I can't even begin to tell you how amazing they are! They have both been through SO much and if anyone deserves a HEA it's these two! They are perfect for each other! One of my favorite parts was the charm bracelet... super cute! And that proposal... *dreamy sigh* I'm not going to lie... I read that part 3 times! Haha.

I am so glad that I started this series! The books just keep getting better and better! I'm looking forward to reading the rest of the books. I'm also looking forward to reading the Fortress Security series. I'm definitely intrigued by all these side characters and their stories.

I'm so glad that I discovered Ms. Deel. I have been sucked in to every single one of her books I have read so far. Gotta love adding more authors to your go to list... ;)

Not going to lie... this casting was a bit tough! I had the hardest time trying to find Alex. What do you think?

Content: Mild violence. Talk of abuse. No swearing. Clean romance.. just swoony kisses!

Midnight Reckoning by Rebecca Deel

Synopsis:

Her sister was a world-class jewel thief. But she crossed the wrong person and now Sophie's baby may pay the price.

Sophie Valero has spent her life living down her last name. In a family of murderers, thieves, and con artists, she's the black sheep. As the owner of a legitimate business, the toughest challenge she faces is helping customers find the right herbal supplements to enhance their health. But when she's attacked in her home, Sophie is given 72 hours to find what her sister stole. The price of failure? Her son's life. Since the retired cat burglar can't go to the local police, she turns to the one man who might help her. If he can forget she's a Valero.

Secret Service Agent Micah Winter stopped for a cup of coffee and left with a bullet in his leg. The gangbanger who shot him left in a body bag. Now Micah is home on medical leave with a contract on his head. The last thing he wants is to protect a beautiful jewel thief. Yet within minutes of seeing Sophie again, he has no choice but to offer his protection.

Micah and Sophie team up to locate the items her sister stole while staying one step ahead of the gang determined to kill Micah and the local law committed to pinning jewel thefts on Sophie. Micah vows to neutralize the threats to Sophie because the federal agent has fallen hard for his cat burglar. But the deadline is hours away and a killer is closer than he thinks.

My Review: 5 Stars

Sophie Valero comes from a long line of con artists and thieves. She has spent years trying to distance herself from her family name. She refuses to follow in their footsteps. But when her twin sister steals priceless jewelry, Sophie has no other option but to return it back to it's owner.

When her sister and brother-in-law are killed in a car accident and the people her sister has stolen from comes after Sophie, she will do whatever it takes to keep herself and her unborn child safe.. even if that means turning to Micah Winters, her brother-in-law's brother who can't stand the Valeros. 

The last thing Micah needs while he's healing from a gunshot wound to the leg is getting mixed up with Sophie. If it wasn't for the Valero women, his brother might still be alive. So to say he's shocked to see her standing on his doorstep with a letter from his brother stating that if anything happened to him and his wife she is to find Micah and have him protect her, is an understatement.

After discovering Sophie is pregnant and learning more of what's been happening, Micah is determined to protect her and her child. Somewhere along the way he realizes that Sophie is nothing like her family. She is strong, independent, and beautiful.. and Micah finds himself falling in love with her. 

But when more than one enemy is after both Sophie and Micah, the only option they have is to team up with Fortress Security to find out who is behind all the threats and to stop them before it's too late. Sophie and Micah have too much to live for to let the bad guys win. They are determined to live happily ever after.

Wow! I absolutely loved this book! Sophie and Micah are definitely a new favorite! I was hooked from the very beginning and I had a hard time putting this book down! I found myself sneaking in reading whenever I could, staying up past my bedtime and waking up earlier than usual to finish it! Sleep is overrated when you find a good book! 

I discovered on the author's website that, while all the books in both of her series are standalones, a lot of the characters overlap and there's a certain order that they can be read in. Hence the reason I started the Fortress Security series. I will read the rest of the books in the order she has suggested. I am definitely looking forward to reading more by Ms. Deel!

As for my casting... I absolutely ADORE these two! What do you think?!

Content: Mild violence. No swearing. Clean romance... just swoony kisses!

Shadow Redemption by Rebecca Deel

 

Synopsis:

After surviving a nightmare, supermodel Ruth Monihan's past is firmly in her rearview mirror. But when unwanted gifts threaten to drag her back into the darkness, she turns to a tall, dark, and deadly operative with fire-tested skills and courage to unmask a stalker with a lethal agenda.

Living and working in the shadows is a matter of survival for Fortress operative Ben Martin. But when the woman who rocked his world asks for help, the battle-hardened warrior walks into the limelight, triggering a cascade of events that may conclude with their deaths.

My Review: 3.5 Stars

Y'all know how much I love Ms. Deel's books. So imagine my surprise when I realize that I never reviewed one of them. Gotta love a reason to reread books by a favorite author. 

Ruth and Ben both have demons in their past that they have a hard time with. Both think that they are broken and not good enough to have someone special in their lives. But past trauma is what paves the path from friendship to something more. 

I absolutely adored these two and loved watching them not only grow stronger as individuals, but also as a couple. These two were made for each other. Both knew what the other one was experiencing and knew just what to say and how to help each other. These two are definitely favorites of mine! 

While I loved these two, I do have to say, there were a few things that held me back from completely loving it. 

I was really disappointed with Bridget and Trace for the way they treated Ben. The way they reacted to the news of Ben and Ruth becoming a couple was ridiculous. Neither one of them thought Ben was "good enough" for her because of his past that they knew nothing about. I struggled with it because it wasn't true to their characters. 

I was also disappointed in the few plot points that were left unresolved (there's no resolution for the second half of the "mystery"), as well as some inconsistencies (in the previous book Ruth doesn't have any allergies but in this one she's death allergic to strawberries and she also spent time in Bayside with Sorensen in the previous book but doesn't know who he is in the book), and grammatical errors that should've been caught my beta readers and/or an editor. Had I not loved Ben and Ruth so much, I probably would've given it a lower rating. 

I seriously cannot get enough of Ms. Deel's books. They're all favorites that I can read over and over again. I can't wait to see what she has in store for us next! 

And of course I cannot forget my casting. I absolutely LOVE these two! What do you think?!