Hero's Flight - Janie Crouch (Calamitte Jane Pub - Dec 2023)

Series: Linear Tactical: Oak Creek (Book 2)
 
Air Force Combat Controller Derek Bollinger knows what it is to feel that every breath might be his last. Enduring hell in an enemy prison for five weeks taught him that.
 
The only thing that got him through it was the thought of his family, his hometown of Oak Creek, Wyoming, and especially of Becky Mackay.
 
He survived, but with blood on his hands. His own. His friends’ who died beside him. His enemies’.
 
And then...Becky’s.
 
A night that should’ve been perfect for them both turned into a nightmare Derek can never wake up from, leaving him with only one option: staying the hell away.
 
But Becky has almost lost the man she loves too many times—first to that prison camp, then to his own demons.
 
She’s not going to lose him again.
 
Yes, that night between them changed everything. Changed her. But change isn’t always a bad thing. And it’s time for them to stand together to face his PTSD and their future.
 
Especially when an unexpected danger comes after them both. Together will be the only way to survive.
 
Emotional second chance story with a bit of suspense to complicate the reunion. Derek Bollinger, son of Finn and Charlie (Eagle), and Becky Mackay, daughter of Zac and Annie (Cyclone), have been best friends all their lives and have been in love since they were teenagers. After a PTSD incident, Derek disappeared from Becky's life, leaving her hurt, angry, and confused. Derek has been avoiding her, convinced Becky is better off without him. When they come face to face, all Derek can think about is getting away from the pain he sees in her eyes.
 
The first part of this book overlaps with the end of Hero Unbound, with added detail critical to Derek and Becky's story. Becky is furious to discover that Derek has been back in Wyoming for eighteen months without contacting her. Then she catches him running away again. After the experience that drove Derek away, Becky has spent the intervening months training her mind and body to help him - if she can get him to stop running.
 
I ached for Derek and his pain and suffering. I understood his fear of hurting her. But I also wanted to shake him for refusing to talk to her about his feelings and fears. I liked Becky's determination to confront him and make him listen to her. She gets her opportunity when the plane he uses to fly her to a ranch crashes in the Wyoming wilderness.
 
I was glued to the pages as Derek fought to land the plane safely. Besides dealing with the crash itself, Derek and Becky were faced with severe weather conditions that could also have ended their lives. I loved their teamwork as they raced to find shelter. Then came the fun part. Once settled safely in a remote cabin, Becky realizes she has a captive audience for her long-awaited talk with Derek. I loved her methods; she used every bit of her training to break down Derek's walls. I laughed out loud at his shock and then his fascination. I was so happy to see their progress and their realization that it was just the beginning of fighting for their relationship.
 
At the same time, unexplained things are happening around Becky. A horse she treats at a distant ranch has puzzling symptoms, and one of the ranch hands is exceptionally hostile toward her. Not long after, her home office catches fire. Then, there is the oddity of the plane crash. An unexpected twist brings danger to Becky's door. This confrontation was intense, but the resolution had me cheering for Becky and Derek. The ending was fantastic, and I loved the scene between Zac and Derek.
 
I love seeing the deep ties between the new generation of Linear Tactical characters. Most have known each other all their lives, and their teamwork and support are rivaled only by that of their parents. I am especially fascinated by Lincoln and can't wait to find out who Janie finds to match with him. Colton is up next, and I look forward to reading his story.

Holiday Heroes - Janie Crouch, Regan Black (Calamitte Jane Pub - Dec 2023)

A Fairytale Hero
 
Series: Fairytale, Colorado (Book .5)
 
Jackson Prince thought love was done for him when his wife died five years ago. But the shy girl he never forgot from high school saving his life on Christmas Eve proves him wrong. Now they'll both learn it's never too late for love...if they can survive.
 
This novella was a wild ride from start to finish. Chandra returned to Fairytale, Colorado, after her daughter moved to Singapore for an internship. She bought the local café and began living a more peaceful life. That ends on Christmas Eve when several men come looking for Jackson Prince. She hasn't seen him in many years and says so, though they are skeptical. To her surprise, she finds a wounded Jackson hiding in her car when she leaves. Unfortunately, they are spotted, and a wild twenty-four hours ensues.
 
The suspense of this story had me glued to the pages from start to finish. Just when I thought they were safe, trouble came at them again and again. Jackson was a terrific hero, protective and caring, and determined to keep Chandra safe from the trouble he brought to her door. The intensity ramped up with each attack until the final confrontation that finally ended it all.
 
I loved both Chandra and Jackson. Both are older, in their fifties and have the experience to deal with what they face. I loved how Chandra was unflappable and took everything in stride - including the sparks that flew between them. Jackson has been a widower for five years and never expected to be interested in another woman. Neither has forgotten the one amazing kiss they shared in high school, and the rekindling of those sparks takes them both by surprise. I loved the ending and seeing these two realize that it's never too late for love.
 
This was a terrific introduction to the new series, and I can't wait to dive in.

 

 
A Hero in Paradise
 
Series: Never Too Late for Love: Ellington Cove (Book 6.5)
 
The holidays lost their shine for Will Frasier after his wife passed. Bucking traditions, he’s headed for Key West to do a friend a favor. One that brings him face to face with a woman who still believes in miracles… and that it’s never too late for love.
 
I loved returning to Key West's Ellington Cove and seeing some old friends. I especially enjoyed spending some time at the Beachcomber, a favorite haunt from the other books in the series.
 
Will and his three adult sons came to the Cove to escape the memories of earlier Christmases. Will's wife passed away several years ago, and the holidays haven't been the same since then. He hadn't been there long when a friend from home called and asked a favor. Would he watch over a woman who witnessed a murder and keep her safe until the killer is caught? As an active police officer back home, Will's protective instincts are aroused, and he agrees.
 
Maureen is a single mother (and grandmother) who raised her son on her own. After working as a bartender at the Beachcomber for many years, she now owns the place. A few nights before Christmas, she saw a man leave a body on the patio of the bar. Afraid for her life, she contacts a friend with the Guardian Agency who promises to send someone to help her.
 
Maureen's independent spirit resents the need for a protector, but having a good-looking, older, well-built bodyguard is no hardship. At the same time, Will is impressed by Maureen's beauty, courage, and spirit. I loved seeing these two get to know each other as circumstances threw them together. It was heartwarming to see Will realize that he's just been going through the motions since his wife's death. Being around Maureen brings light and laughter back into his life. Maureen has had trust issues with men thanks to her son's father, and being around Will tempts her to open her heart again. I loved watching the sparks fly between them. There are some obstacles to overcome, but both have the maturity and experience to fight for what they want. The ending was sweet and romantic, with a bit of humor.
 
The suspense of the story was terrific. With the killer still out there and determined to silence Maureen, Will has his work cut out for him to keep her safe. The tension increased with every attempt on her life, and I was glued to the pages from start to finish. Just when I thought the danger was over, an unexpected twist put Maureen back in the bullseye. The final confrontation was a nail-biter, and I loved how it went down.
 
The secondary characters were great. There was a bit of Jess from the earlier books, and I'm looking forward to reading her story. I loved seeing more of Officer Jenkins of the KWPD. My favorites were Will's sons, David, Lance, and Eli. I loved their close relationship with their dad and their willingness to jump in and help with Maureen's protection. Their interactions with Maureen were great, and I loved the dinner scene with them at the end. Maureen's son, Tim, made a brief appearance in the final chapter, but it was fun. 

 

Secrets of Silverpeak Mine - Cindi Myers (HI #2183 - Dec 2023)

Series: Eagle Mountain: Critical Response (Book 4)
 
He can't keep his secrets
If he wants to save her
 
Search and rescue rookie Caleb Garrison has just retrieved a skeleton from a mine shaft. Forensic reconstructionist Danielle Priest wants to give this Jane Doe a face. Even though he's intensely attracted to Danielle, Caleb knows that his past makes a new relationship impossible -- especially with a woman expecting a baby. But when their investigation puts Danielle in danger, he'll stop at nothing to protect her and her child.
 
This was one of the most interesting and enthralling books I have read in quite a while. The book opens as Caleb is about to descend into a mine shaft to retrieve a skeleton recently discovered.  Though a little creeped out at first, as a historian, Caleb soon finds himself wondering about the victim's story.
 
The story then switches to Danielle, a forensic reconstructionist in Denver. When she ends her relationship with the assistant district attorney she's been dating because of his reaction to her pregnancy, she also quits her job with the Denver coroner's office. Her mentor has invited her to visit him in Eagle Mountain. The last thing she expected was to be asked to help identify the Jane Doe from the mine. I was fascinated by Danielle's work as a forensic reconstructionist. I did not know the science and artistry behind giving a victim a face. Danielle clearly enjoys the challenge of her chosen occupation, in addition to being emotionally committed.
 
Like Danielle, Caleb has a failed relationship in his past. I ached for him and his feelings of shame over being taken in by a con artist. His backstory was heartbreaking, and I understood his reluctance to talk about it. When he learns that the bones belong to a young woman, he wonders if they could belong to the wife he hasn't seen in two years. He has a PI looking for her so he can serve her with divorce papers.
 
I enjoyed watching the relationship between Danielle and Caleb develop. Neither is interested in anything more than friendship, as Danielle is wary of trusting her judgment, and Caleb is technically married. I liked watching them get to know each other as Danielle worked on the reconstruction and hung out together. It doesn't take long for trust to build between them or for sparks of attraction to appear. I liked how their similar relationship woes made understanding each other's issues easier and ultimately made them realize they were perfect for each other.
 
When Danielle's reconstruction was complete and the "face" was released to the public, it was interesting to see how many people thought she looked familiar, but no one could positively identify her. In the meantime, Danielle gets to know a neighbor woman who is also pregnant. I liked how she and Carissa bonded; they looked like they would become good friends.
 
A lot is going on in the story. Caleb's search for Nora turns up surprising results with a shocking resolution. Danielle finds her talents in demand and contemplates remaining in Eagle Mountain. She becomes worried about her friend Carissa, who she suspects is being abused by her husband. And the identity of the Jane Doe is on everyone's mind. I was glued to the pages as the pieces started to come together, but I did not expect what happened next. The final confrontation was a nail-biter that had me on the edge of my seat until it was over.
 
The epilogue was a great wrap-up to the book and detailing of what was in store for the various characters. I hope there will be more Eagle Mountain stories.

Her Best Friend's Wedding - Christine Rimmer (HSE #3020 - Dec 2023)

Series: Bravo Family Ties: The Next Generation (Book 2)

            Bravo Family Ties (Book 63)
 
Could she possibly fall…
For her best friend's ex?
 
Since they were kids, Sadie McBride and Ty Bravo had squared off. When Ty dated -- then married! -- Sadie's best friend, Nicole, the battle lines were firmly drawn. Now happily newly single, Ty's sworn off love while Sadie's searching for it. But when they're thrown together at Nicole's second wedding, the pair discover there may have always been a fine line between their love and hate…and their forbidden feelings might just cross it!
 
Terrific book. Sadie, Ty, and Nicole were friends while growing up, though Sadie and Ty spent most of their time competing with each other. When Ty dated and married Nicole, Sadie was firmly on Nicole's side during their tumultuous marriage. After Ty and Nicole divorced, he and Sadie slowly became good friends. There is still plenty of teasing going on as Ty tweaks Sadie about her search for Mr. Right, and she gives him a hard time about giving up on love.
 
Things begin to change during the run-up to Nicole's second wedding. Sadie and Ty are thrown together as maid of honor and best man. An unexpected and mind-blowing kiss after pre-wedding festivities in Vegas stirs up feelings neither wanted to admit. Ty decides he wants a secret fling with Sadie, but she is against sneaking around.
 
I enjoyed watching this relationship develop. Ty is adamant that he will never marry again. He has a lot of baggage from his marriage to Nicole and believes he isn't cut out for marriage. He's well-known for his superficial encounters with women and wants the same with Sadie. He believes that if they give in, the attraction will burn out, and they can return to their old friendship. Sadie doesn't want a fling. She has been looking for Mr. Right for years and is still hoping to find him. She also doesn't want to do anything that will hurt Nicole, who is quite the drama queen.
 
I loved watching Sadie hold Ty off despite the sparks and realizing that her feelings for him were stronger than expected. Her willpower is impressive, as is her loyalty to her friend. Ty is determined to get his way and pulls out all the stops, trying to get Sadie to see things his way. I loved watching the changes he went through as Sadie broke through the walls he put up. His "aha" moment was excellent, as was his awkwardness as he tried to explain his feelings to Sadie. I loved the ending and seeing Ty and Sadie enjoy the happiness they've waited so long for.
 
I liked seeing characters from previous books. It was great to see Cash and Abby again (The Nine-Month Marriage) and JoBeth and Hunter from Hometown Reunion. I wasn't too fond of Nicole and how everyone felt they needed to tiptoe around her. 

Code Name: Gemini - Janie Crouch, Danielle M. Haas (Calamitte Jane Pub - Nov 2023)

Series: Zodiac Tactical (Book 6)
Series: Injured Heroes (Book 7)
 
Tasha Volkov has been on the run for three years from a brutal cartel who want her dead.
 
Aka: her family.
 
She already paid a heavy price for crossing them, and has the scars to prove it. Her only choice is to keep running, even if the tiny town of Pine Valley feels more like home to her than anywhere else she's ever been.
 
The last place Zodiac Tactical agent Andrew Zimmerman expected to find the missing Volkov sister was with his friends at the Crossroads Mountain Retreat in the mountains of Tennessee—a place for wounded law enforcement and veterans to heal.
 
Tasha may not have been the one who gave the order that killed his wife—and very nearly killed him and his twin baby girls—but she can lead Andrew to the man who did.
 
And Andrew's willing to do whatever it takes to make that happen.
 
No matter how much Tasha's vulnerability pulls at him. No matter if everything about her screams innocent, not guilty. No matter how his gut says to keep her safe and close to him.
 
He thinks he knows all her secrets. But he doesn't.
 
Turns out, neither does she...
 
Janie Crouch is a long-time favorite author of mine, while Danielle Haas is new to me. Together, they have crafted an intensely emotional story that engrossed me from the beginning AND introduced me to a new author and series to add to my ever-growing list of "want-to-read" books.
 
Andrew Zimmerman is the last of the Zimmerman siblings from the Linear Tactical and Zodiac Tactical series. Three years ago, Andrew stopped taking on active missions with Zodiac Tactical after his wife was murdered because of his undercover work. Now, he works behind the scenes as he raises his twin daughters, Charlotte and Olivia. The desire to get revenge on Roman Volkov is always at the back of his mind. When he discovers that the man's sister, Tasha, lives in the same town where he's headed for a friend's wedding, he's all in to find out what she knows about Roman's activities.
 
Tasha has been on the run for three years, ever since she discovered the truth about her family's activities and dared to interfere. She's been in Pine Valley for a few months, and it feels like the home she's never had. But she always looks over her shoulder, expecting Roman to find her at any time. She never expected to see the man whose life she saved show up in her adopted town.
 
At the first meeting between Andrew and Tasha, they recognized each other but didn't let on. Andrew is convinced that Tasha knows where Roman is and will do anything to find out. Tasha recognizes Andrew as the man she saved along with his children, but she is still wracked with guilt over not being able to save his wife. Neither expected the sparks of attraction that immediately flared between them. Because of those sparks, his initial attempt to get closer to her goes too far, adding to his guilt and being a complete jerk to Tasha. Andrew retreats to regroup and returns to Pine Valley a few weeks later.
 
With increased determination, Andrew intends to get to the truth. But the more time he spends with Tasha, the more he believes she is innocent of involvement in Roman's activities. When a trap is laid that sends her running for her life, the truth finally comes out - on both sides. I ached for Tasha and her feelings of betrayal when she had begun to trust Andrew. Andrew's protective instincts kick in when he hears her story. All he wants to do is keep her safe until Roman is caught. Then, he can explore his growing feelings for her. But both must overcome the effects of their pasts before they can look at a future together.
 
The suspense of the story kept me hooked from start to finish. From the first resurfacing of Roman and his deadly activities to the final confrontation, I was never sure what would happen next. I could feel the building tension as ZT tried to smoke out Roman. Then, to find out why he was after Tasha added a new level of intensity to the need to stop him. The twists of the final confrontation kept me glued to the pages until it was all over. I loved the ending and seeing the effect on Andrew and Tasha and their relationship.
 
I enjoyed meeting a new group of people and hearing about their efforts for injured veterans and law enforcement. It reminds me of the Resting Warrior Ranch, another series that I loved. I'm looking forward to diving into the new series that begins with Tasha's friend Laura and reading the other books in the Injured Heroes series.
 
Seeing some of the Linear Tactical people appear in this book was great. I love how they have the backs of their ZT comrades.

Her Secret Protector - Bonnie Vanak (HRS #2253 - Nov 2023)

Series: SOS Agency (Book 4)
 
To find her attacker
…he must stay in the shadows.
 
Assigned to protect sea turtle biologist Peyton Bradley from a dangerous stalker, former SEAL Gray Wallace is determined to save his headstrong charge -- even if she doesn't want to be saved. Their attraction is powerful. But damning rumors around the handsome bodyguard's past get him fired. Only when Peyton is kidnapped and loses her memory does Gray reveal his startling -- possibly deadly -- secret.
 
Terrific book that is romantic, intense, and informative. Peyton is a marine biologist passionate about sea turtles and the environment. The daughter of wealthy parents who don't understand her but still support her efforts become worried when she acquires a stalker. Though Peyton refuses to believe she is in danger, her father hires a bodyguard from the SOS Agency.
 
Gray is a former SEAL who is determined to keep Peyton safe despite herself. She hates having him follow her and calls him her "shadow." Gray has a secret in his past that has him super-focused on everything Peyton does, worried about history repeating itself.
 
When Peyton's dad becomes suspicious of Gray, he hires new security and fires Gray. But Gray refuses to walk away and keeps his eye on Peyton anyway. He's not far when the new security fails, and Peyton is kidnapped. When he finds her, she has lost her memory but feels that Gray is the only person she can trust. I loved watching her stand up to her family and stick with Gray as they try to uncover her stalker's identity.
 
I enjoyed watching the relationship develop between Peyton and Gray. Under the antagonism she felt for him at the beginning were undeniable sparks of attraction, which she tried to ignore. Gray knows he shouldn't have feelings for his protectee and fights them as hard as possible. But when he discovers she has feelings for him, it becomes much more challenging to keep things professional.
 
I loved the real protectiveness Gray feels toward Peyton, not just the kind that comes with the job. Seeing his care for her and how he used her love for and knowledge of sea turtles to help her regain her memory was sweet. There are some sweet scenes as they connect over their mutual love of turtles and the environment. I especially liked his enjoyment of watching Peyton tear into a littering father in front of his kids. Gray is convinced he is wrong for Peyton, but ultimately, her determination and love win the day.
 
The suspense of the story kept me hooked from start to finish. The stalking was nerve-wracking as it became evident that the stalker was very familiar with Peyton's life and activities. While I thought I had it figured out early in the book, later information made me doubt my first impression. I shouldn't have, as I turned out to be correct, but the author did a great job at keeping me guessing. The final confrontation was a nail-biter, and I was glued to the pages until it was all over.
 
I loved all the information about sea turtles, their lives, and their challenges. The way the information was presented made it easy to understand and never felt like either an infodump or a lecture. 

 
 

Killer on Kestrel Trail - Cindi Myers (HI #2177 - Nov 2023)

Series: Eagle Mountain: Critical Response (Book 3)
 
Two decades later...
She's determined to get justice for her family
 
Twenty years after her sister's murder, Kelsey Chapman's determined to discover the truth behind what really happened on Kestrel Trail. When she arrives in Eagle Mountain, Colorado, she quickly joins forces with search-and-rescue expert Tony Meisner, who found Liz's body and has been haunted ever since. Kelsey needs Tony to solve the mystery...and dodge a murderer who may be hiding in plain sight.
 
Terrific book that kept me hooked from start to finish. I've wondered about the SAR team member severely injured in the previous series and was very happy to see that this book was about him. Tony was hurt when his climbing rope was sabotaged, and he had severely broken legs. He spent months in rehab and physical therapy and is slowly regaining his strength and abilities. The slow pace frustrates him. Tony is a great guy but something of a loner. When he was sixteen, he was sent to live with his older brother because his parents weren't interested in being parents. This has affected Tony's interest in long-term relationships.
 
Kelsey came to Eagle Mountain to learn more about her older sister's death. Ten years younger than her sister, Liz, Kelsey didn't know her well, but her unsolved murder has weighed on her. Liz's death had a lasting impact on her family, and Kelsey grew up practically ignored by her parents, who never recovered from the tragedy. Kelsey has always kept a distance between herself and others because of it.
 
The first person Kelsey talked to about Liz was Tony. He was a classmate and worked with the SAR crew. Tony was the one who found Liz's body and has never forgotten anything about that day. I loved how Tony and Kelsey connected from the moment they met. With their similar childhoods with disconnected parents, it wasn't a surprise that their fast-growing feelings for each other filled a hole in their lives. There are a few bumps in the progress of their relationship, such as Tony's belief that he's too old for her. Kelsey also needs to learn to open her heart. I loved seeing them grow closer and open their hearts to each other.
 
The suspense of the story was terrific. I liked how helpful everyone was to Kelsey, from the sheriff letting her read the case file on Liz's death to Tony introducing her to people who knew Liz. I could feel her frustration as she ran into so many dead ends. When she and Tony were nearly run down by a truck, they realized that someone was disturbed by their investigation. As the book progressed, one person aroused my suspicion, and I wondered about the connection. I wanted to shake Kelsey when she went off to meet a mysterious informant by herself. The confrontation between her and the killer was heartbreaking and intense, with Kelsey in extreme danger. The resolution was fantastic and had me on the edge of my seat until it was over.
 
A side story involved Tony's twenty-year-old nephew, Chris, coming to stay with him. Chris initially came across as immature and irresponsible, but as he spent more time with Tony, he began to change. I loved the eye-opening experience that made him reassess his actions. I especially enjoyed Tony's reaction to Chris's decision about his future. There were several fun scenes involving Chris and Tony and the trials and tribulations of sharing Tony's house. I'd love to see Chris get his own story later. 

Pursuit at Panther Point - Cindi Myers ( HI #2171 - Oct 2023)

Series: Eagle Mountain: Critical Response (Book 2)
 
He never thought he'd see her again…
Until a killer reunites them
 
When he sees dog handler Anna Trent during a search-and-rescue mission, Deputy Lucas Malone is stunned. Two years ago, they met when she lost her husband on the same cancer ward where Lucas's girlfriend died. As Lucas now wonders about their mutual attraction, the case they're working turns into a murder investigation -- and Anna becomes a target. Lucas was powerless to save his past love. Now he'll do whatever it takes to protect Anna…
 
Terrific book. Anna and Lucas first met two years ago, on one of the worst days of Anna's life, as she watched her husband slowly dying of cancer. Lucas was there visiting his girlfriend, who was also dying. Lucas was surprised when he ran into her in Eagle Mountain, where he was filling in for another deputy.
 
Anna is a member of the Eagle Mountain Search and Rescue team, along with her dog Jacqui. They were called out to look for Dave, a missing bakery owner. I never considered a poodle a search dog, but Jacqui was fantastic at her job. She quickly found the missing man hanging from a tree in an apparent suicide. But something about the scene didn't sit right with Anna, who shared her suspicions with Lucas.
 
The suspense of this story kept me hooked from start to finish. Lucas takes their suspicions to the sheriff, who tasks Lucas with investigating. Anna's concern for Dave's wife, Sandy, also has her asking questions. The more questions they ask, the more confusing things become, as answers don't add up. Several twists kept me guessing as I bounced from one suspect to another. The final confrontation was a nail-biter, with Anna in danger and the killer determined. The resolution was terrific, with an unexpected player saving the day.
 
I enjoyed seeing the relationship between Anna and Lucas develop. In addition to seeing each other again, they are surprised at the sparks of attraction they feel. Up until now, Anna's grief has kept her from moving forward, but her reaction to Lucas reminds her that she's still alive. I liked their first date, which had some realistically awkward moments as they dealt with their past connection. There are a few bumps in the road as they work to put their pasts behind them, but ultimately, love overcame them all.
 
I loved the scenes that took place in Anna's yarn shop. It's always easy to spot an author who participates in fiber arts because it comes through in their writing. The comment about a tricky knitting action and the satisfaction of mastering it resonates when you've experienced it yourself. I also enjoyed the descriptions of the various yarns, the effects of touching or "petting" them, and the stress relief of knitting. This gave Anna added depth and relatability. 

Montana Rain - Josie Jade (Calamitte Jane Pub - Sept 2023)

Series: Resting Warrior Ranch (Book 8)
 
Psychiatrist Rayne Westerfield has found purpose in helping patients, especially those with PTSD, heal at the Resting Warrior Ranch. For her, there’s no greater calling than equipping people to fight the worst of their demons.
 
But she’s never allowed anyone to help her fight her own.
 
She’s kept her distance. Kept herself buttoned up tight. Even the people in the small Montana town she’s known for years—the ones she calls friends—don’t know who she really is, and the fears she hides.
 
And that’s okay.
 
But it’s not okay to Cole Phillips.
 
The FBI agent’s first interaction with the Resting Warrior Ranch a few months ago wasn’t under the best of circumstances, but he’s determined to make up for that now.
 
Where everyone else sees ice in Rayne, he sees fire. And he’s not going to let her fears keep him at a distance.
 
Especially not when Rayne witnesses something she shouldn’t and a killer comes after her. Cole will battle the criminal determined to silence her, and the fears she’s buried so deep.
 
The healer has fought for everyone else. Now this warrior will fight for her.
 
Terrific ending to the series. Cole first appeared in Montana Freedom, where he was part of an FBI team. He didn't know then that his partner was in cahoots with the bad guys. Now, he's dealing with the mistrust of his fellow agents, so he takes a leave of absence to deal with his feelings and get some distance from the workplace stress. He's also determined to mend fences with the men at the Resting Warrior Ranch and see if there is anything to his feelings for Rayne.
 
Rayne is the psychiatrist who works with the wounded warriors at the ranch and anyone else who needs her help. Though she has become close to the people of RWR, there are parts of her past she keeps locked away. Though she is equally attracted to Cole, she refuses to do anything about it because she believes terrible things happen to those she cares about.
 
Rayne is able to maintain her distance from Cole until a chance encounter in Chicago brings them together, and the sparks are stirred up again. While she's relieved to go home and put distance between them again, she has no idea that Cole is headed to Garnet Bend for the next four months. I loved her first encounter with him and how he puts her on notice that he's determined to pursue their attraction. He won't pressure her but lets her know he isn't going anywhere.
 
Things change when she sees a news story about a Chicago murder, and then her office is broken into. The team at RWR is looking into it and is not convinced it's a coincidence. When her home is broken into, Rayne barely escapes discovery. The first person she calls is Cole, who rushes to her side. It doesn't take long to figure out what has happened and that Rayne is in danger. I loved seeing Cole's protectiveness come out.
 
Cole whisks Rayne off to his cabin, hoping to keep her safe while the team at RWR works their way through the possibilities. Rayne is wary of being alone with Cole, afraid that her resolve to resist him won't last. Things get complicated when a freak blizzard snows them in. All of this alone time gives the attraction between them time to build. At the same time, Cole's understanding and patience enable Rayne to finally open up about the trauma in her past that keeps her from allowing herself to care about anyone. Breaking free of that guilt lets Rayne give in to her attraction to Cole, and they find plenty of ways to stay warm.
 
But their peace doesn't last long, and with the end of the blizzard comes the end of their safety. The action picks up as those looking for Rayne find their hideout. There were some tense moments as Cole and Rayne avoided detection, but they knew their options were limited. The only thing to do is to return to Chicago and deal with the issue. The action was intense, with threats, kidnappings, and a ticking clock. The final confrontation had me glued to the pages with its twists and turns. I loved the ending, especially Cole's plans for the future. The epilogue was a terrific wrap-up for the book and series. I'd love to see a return to the ranch sometime in the future.

Wyoming Mountain Cold Case - Juno Rushdan (HI #2172 - Oct 2023)

Series: Cowboy State Lawmen (Book 6)
 
A murder spree brings a sheriff and police chief together…
 
Called to the scene of a killer's latest victim, Laramie PD chief Willa Nelson and Sheriff Daniel Clark must work together despite jurisdictional differences. But as their investigation leads to a cold case, Willa has to trust Daniel with the truth. As the bodies pile up and the pressure mounts, they find themselves facing more than one unstoppable killer…
 
Good second chance romance combined with gripping suspense. The story's prologue showed the serial killer, his first victim, and a vivid illustration of the evil in store. This is followed five years later by the discovery of a body in the woods. This is the second body killed in this manner lately, and our law enforcement duo soon discovered a disturbing similarity to some cold cases.
 
Daniel is the county sheriff and catches the recent case because it is in his jurisdiction - barely. Willa is the town's police chief and has a similar case that happened within the town limits. There is some history between Willa and Daniel that has caused tension since they took up their posts, but both agree that working together is the best way to stop the killer.
 
Daniel and Willa had carried on a short but intense affair before being hired to their current positions. Willa broke things off to protect her heart, as her relationships tend to end badly. She also wants to keep her professional and personal lives separate, thanks to the attitudes of some people she's worked with. Daniel disagreed with the breakup, but she gave him no choice. Now, they'll spend time together as they work on the case.
 
I enjoyed watching their relationship develop. Willa tries hard to keep the distance between her and Daniel, but ignoring the sparks that still fly between them becomes increasingly difficult. Daniel respects Willa's abilities, but his protective instincts kick in when it becomes clear that she is the killer's next target. Sometimes, I wanted to shake Willa for pushing Daniel away even though she appreciated his comfort and understanding. I liked seeing them realize they were perfect together, professionally and personally.
 
The suspense of the story kept me hooked from start to finish. The victims are linked to the Shining Light cult featured in the previous books, adding to the problems law enforcement has with them. I enjoyed watching Daniel and Willa work through the puzzling clues, refusing to allow the leader to block their efforts to find the truth. There were several twists to the investigation that I didn't see coming, culminating with two intense confrontations. There was a final twist to the fate of the cult that caught me by surprise.
 
Willa's twenty-one-year-old son plays an important role in the book also. He and Willa have a strained relationship that weighs deeply on her. His prior involvement with the cult didn't help anything. There are some tense times between the two because of it. It was interesting to see how things changed as the book progressed. I loved his part in the epilogue.

Hunted at Christmas - Dana R. Lynn (LIS #1061 - Oct 2023)

Series: Amish Country Justice (Book 17)
 
Wanted by a bounty hunter.
Chased by a killer.
 
When single mother Addison Johnson is attacked by a hitman, she learns there's a price on her head. And Isaiah Bender -- the bounty hunter hired to track her down for crimes she didn't commit -- is her only hope for survival. Protecting Addison and her young son from armed assailants means seeking refuge in Amish country. But when their holiday hideout is discovered, can he clear an innocent woman's name and keep her alive?
 
Terrific book. I have been looking forward to Isaiah's story, which definitely met expectations. Isaiah left Sutter Springs and his Amish family seventeen years ago after a traumatic event and hasn't returned since then. After a few years in the military, Isaiah found work as a bounty hunter, which is what brought him back to his hometown. He finds his quarry being attacked by a killer, and something about the situation stirs his suspicions.
 
Addie is a widow with a four-year-old son, Ollie. Her police officer husband was killed four years earlier, and not long after, she discovered she was being stalked. After someone, presumedly her stalker broke into her house, Addie changed her name and her occupation and moved to Ohio, hoping to have left him behind. But she is always looking over her shoulder, worried that he would find her again, and is prepared to run at a moment's notice.
 
The book opens with a rush as Addie hears someone in her house. Wasting no time, she grabs her go bag and makes it out the window, steps ahead of the intruder. Ollie arrives home from school just then, and they rush to a neighbor's house. Addie is terrified when she is attacked there by someone intent on killing her. She's stunned when another man saves her from the attacker, but her troubles aren't over. She is shocked to discover she's wanted for crimes she didn't commit.
 
I loved that Isaiah took the time to listen to Addie and to the instincts that told him something wasn't right. This begins a roller coaster of a story as Isaiah protects Addie and Ollie while trying to discover the truth. The action is intense, with car chases, escapes over frozen ponds, and multiple attacks. The twists and turns kept me glued to the pages until the end. The final confrontation was a nail-biter that had me truly worried for Addie's safety. The resolution had a couple of surprises.
 
I enjoyed seeing the relationship between Isaiah and Addie develop. There was something about Addie that got past Isaiah's walls right from the start. At the same time, Addie felt safe with Isaiah there to protect them. Isaiah may be a tough guy, but he is also a good man. I loved watching him with Ollie, who quickly wiggled his way into Isaiah's heart. Watching Addie with Ollie reminds Isaiah of his childhood and makes him wonder about his family. Addie's faith and understanding help Isaiah let go of some of the pain of his past. Can their growing feelings for each other translate into a future together? Isaiah has some self-examination to do and is helped along the way by some straight talk from one of his brothers. I liked his big moment at the end and the twist in Addie's life. The epilogue was terrific.
 
An incredibly heartwarming scene comes when Isaiah and Addie need the help of the local police. Isaiah is shocked when faced with the law enforcement officers who show up. This is followed by a multi-tissue moment that changes Isaiah's life.

I can't wait for the next book, which is Gideon's story.

Wyoming Cowboys - Regan Black, Janie Crouch (Calamitte Jane Pub - Sept 2023)

Series: Never Too Late for Love: Wyoming Cowboys (Books 1 - 3)
 
Maria's Cowboy

Maria Boyne feels like she’s living inside a country song, and not in a good way.
 
Everything that could possibly go wrong has... from a husband who died and left her with major debt on her tiny ranch, to a horse that’s gone missing, to feeling like she’s being watched.
 
At 50, she never thought this was the life she’d be living: alone, broke, and scared.
 
Cowboy Huck Samuels came to Sweet Pine, Wyoming to work on a friend’s ranch and start a new life. Most people assume his scars and limp are from his rodeo days.
 
That’s better than them knowing the truth.
 
When the gentle beauty at the neighboring ranch needs help with her horses, one of the few things Huck’s ever been good at, he’s more than happy to volunteer.
 
It doesn’t take him long to realize Maria’s string of bad luck is actually something much more sinister. And that, despite his injuries, he’s not going to let her face them alone.
 
It’s not too late for him to be the man he once was.
 
And it’s never too late for love.
 
Terrific combination of romance and suspense. Maria is the widowed owner of a struggling ranch. When her husband died, he left her with a lot of debt she is slowly paying down. But lately, it seems like nothing is going right. Her best horse has gone missing, putting her riding lesson business in jeopardy. the debt feels overwhelming, and she feels like she's being watched. When her friend drags her to a bar for a night out, Maria meets Huck, a cowboy she thinks is just passing through. She connects with him and relieves her loneliness with him, believing he'll be gone the next day.
 
Huck is a former rodeo cowboy who has been hired as foreman on his friend Cole's ranch. He has some pain in his past that makes it difficult to believe in a happy future for himself. He's surprised to see Maria again, and hopes to get to know her better.
 
I ached for Maria and all the trouble she has. Because of it, she's started avoiding people, tired of being the one who needs help. But when her horses get sick and she has an intruder on the ranch, Huck suspects that what she has isn't bad luck, it's vandalism. He believes someone has a vendetta against her. Even with that knowledge, Maria is reluctant to accept Huck's help. It takes a great deal of patience and understanding for Huck to work past Maria's pride. When the person working against her goes too far, Huck is there to save the day.
 
I enjoyed watching their relationship develop. Each has a lot of pain in their past, but patience and understanding helps them realize that a happier future is possible. I liked seeing them together, from sharing their pasts to working around her ranch. The sparks between them are undeniable, and that attraction also brings them closer. I loved the ending and the epilogue and seeing how their lives have changed.
 
 
Teresa's Cowboy
 
Teresa is a city girl, on the run after she witnessed a murder. She stops running in Sweet Pines, Wyoming, when she is offered a job at the coffee shop there. Add in the attentions of local rancher Cole and she feels she has found a safe haven. Then her past catches up to her.
 
This is the story of Cole, a secondary character in the first book (Maria's Cowboy) and Teresa, a newcomer to town. Cole has been smitten with Teresa since she arrived in town, but is slow about asking her out - until his friends Huck and Harvey tease him into it. Unfortunately for Cole, Teresa is wary of getting involved as she initially doesn't plan to stay in Sweet Pines. But when Teresa's past comes looking for her, Cole steps in and offers her a place at his ranch.
 
It isn't long before the time they spend together shows that Teresa's attraction to Cole is as strong as his is to her. I enjoyed seeing Cole introduce the city girl to ranch life, and how easily Teresa took to it. I loved seeing her make friends and begin thinking about a future there.
 
Ricky, the man after Teresa, shows up in town looking for her, but leaves when the town rallies around her to convince him she isn't there. But I spent a lot of time waiting for the other shoe to drop, sure that he would return. I was on the edge of my seat when he made his move, knowing that Teresa was in terrible danger. I loved that she kept her head and took steps to try to save herself. I felt Cole's fear when he realized she was missing and his determination when he went after her. I laughed out loud at Harvey's way of helping and was glued to the pages during the final confrontation.
 
The ending was sweet, and the epilogue was fantastic. I loved Cole's big moment.
 
 
Callie's Cowboy
 
Callie is on the run from an abusive ex and hides on a trail ride led by Harvey, one of Cole and Huck's rodeo friends. Their attraction is clear, but Callie's lack of honesty could pull them apart.
 
Sweet Pines, Wyoming, is the latest stop in Callie's attempt to escape from Calvin, the abusive ex who won't give up. Before she can check into her rental house, she comes to the aid of Olivia, a young woman who fell and sprained her ankle. As a nurse, Callie knew what to do and helped her to the hospital. There, she discovered that Olivia had planned to go on a trail ride that is now impossible. Desperate to get a few days respite, Callie takes Olivia's name and place on the trail ride.
 
Harvey is bowled over by the beautiful woman who showed up late and ill-prepared for the trail ride. He senses that something isn't right and is ready to send her back when she comes to the rescue of a snake-bit rider. Against his better judgment, he allows her to continue, fighting his attraction to her.
 
The trip into the mountains is a rollercoaster of good and bad. Harvey and Callie grow closer as they spend time together, but he becomes more convinced that she is hiding something. There are moments of sweet connection between them, such as sharing the beauty of nature around them. But a possible intruder in the camp one night ends the trip early, and a violent storm separates Harvey and Callie from the rest of the group. Then Harvey discovers Callie's deception, and his feelings of hurt and betrayal drive a wedge between them.
 
Callie and Harvey were miserable after their parting, with Callie's guilty feelings piling on to her heartbreak. Fortunately, both receive some good advice that brings them back together. I liked how Callie opened up to Harvey about her past and her fear, and Harvey's promise to keep her safe. Things look promising for their future until her past rears its ugly head. The final confrontation was a nail-biter, and I couldn't turn the pages fast enough to see how it worked out. The resolution was fantastic.
 
I loved the ending and seeing Callie and Harvey find happiness together. The epilogue was great, and Harvey's surprise for Callie was sweet.
 
 
In all three stories, the couples are older, in their forties or fifties. It's great to see romances that show that love has no age limit. Though the "I love yous" came quickly, the epilogues show that the couples take time to get to know each other. 

A Wasp in the Woods - Geri Krotow (Tule Pub - Sept 2023)

Series: Shop 'Round the World (Book 3)
 
Retired Navy Pilot Angel Warren's sleuthing days are behind her. At least, that's what she tells herself after finding two dead bodies during her first year back in Stonebridge, Pennsylvania. Murders make customers wary and Angel's sales are suffering. With her daughters back in college and the cases behind her, Angel focuses on attracting more customers into her novelty shop.
 
Hoping to boost local tourism, Angel researches how to create a walking history tour. During a dry run for her inaugural walk, her brother's Pomeranian leads her through the woods and to her third body, the apparent victim of multiple stings from a nearby wasp nest. Angel recognizes the deceased as her sister's cherished employee who was days away from being married.
 
The scene doesn't sit right with Angel's best friend, Detective Trinity Colson, however, who suspects foul play. When the autopsy reveals a different cause of death, Angel dives into her most dangerous case yet. Soon Angel, along with her eclectic crew featuring two dogs and a feisty parrot, are once again on the hunt for a murderer. But is Angel also being hunted?
 
This was another fantastic visit to Stonebridge, Pennsylvania, and the intriguing shop owned by Angel Warren. Not only am I fascinated by the merchandise Angel carries in her shop, but I am equally fascinated by her propensity to attract trouble in the form of dead bodies. It's only been two months since the last murder she solved, and her sales are still suffering. To help bring business into the shop, Angel plans a local walking history tour with a spooky element for the upcoming Halloween season. Her most recent recruit is fellow veteran Mariah, who will join the tour as the Headless Horseman, with a trial run scheduled for that night. The last thing she expects is to find Mariah's wasp-stung body as they reach her assigned spot.
 
This time, Angel has the full approval of the Stonebridge Police Department behind her, thanks to her friend and detective Trinity encouraging her to become a consultant. Something about Mariah's death doesn't sit right with either woman, and it isn't long before the evidence points to murder. As in the previous books, I was immediately engrossed in attempting to figure out the killer. Angel has a knack for getting people to talk, and sorting through people's theories was challenging. I liked seeing her thought processes, especially as she came closer to the truth. I loved how the final puzzle piece was revealed, and the confrontation kept me on the edge of my seat until it was over.
 
I also enjoyed seeing more of Angel's relationship with Nate, the coffee shop owner. His more laid-back personality complements her intensity and keeps her on an even keel when events spiral. It is easy to see their love, from cozy dinners to morning coffee dates.
 
Angel's family plays a big part in the book. The murdered woman is her sister Crystal's employee, and her brother Bryce's dog is the one who led Angel to Mariah's body. I love the closeness of the three siblings, especially since Angel's return to Stonebridge from her time in the Navy. It's a realistic portrayal of sibling relationships, too, as there are times when each gets on another's nerves. However, they also have each other's backs in a crisis, and that support is evident here.

Wyoming Cowboy Undercover - Juno Rushdan (HI #2166 - Sept 2023)

Series: Cowboy State Lawmen (Book 5)
 
He must infiltrate a dangerous cult…
To prevent an impending disaster.
 
Rocco Sharp fears he's placed Mercy McCoy in peril. The undercover agent has convinced the cult leader's daughter to get him into the Shining Light's compound. With five days to thwart a violent plot, Rocco's feelings for Mercy put his assignment at risk. As the connection between them deepens, Rocco knows he'll have to be the one to tell Mercy who he really is. Otherwise, they'll never have a chance beyond this critical mission.
 
Terrific addition to the Cowboy State Lawmen series. Rocco is an undercover part of the task force investigating weapons trafficking that may also be linked to the Shining Light cult. The cult leader, Marshall McCoy, is a charismatic man who has recruited many people lately, making the task force suspicious about his intentions. The story opens as Rocco witnesses his CI (confidential informant) run off the road on the way to meet him. The CI dies right after telling Rocco they had it "all wrong" and that something big and violent would happen in a few days. The CI's death leaves Rocco with only his backup plan to get the truth - getting closer to the leader's daughter, Mercy.
 
Mercy has been raised in the cult but lately has felt restless and dissatisfied. Her happiest times are spent at the gym, where she takes self-defense lessons from Rocco. But her father is about to end those lessons and prevent her from leaving the compound. Distraught at not seeing Rocco again, she allows him to talk her into taking him to the compound with her. He claims he needs her help to get away from bad influences.
 
This begins a roller coaster of action, suspense, and emotions. The twists and turns of this case kept me glued to the pages from start to finish. Rocco is determined to discover what the attack entails and who is behind it and is willing to risk himself. The intensity ramps up as the deadline grows nearer. The cult leader is a master manipulator and doesn't hesitate to use Mercy to further his aims. But just when it looks like Rocco has identified the who, if not the where and when, an unexpected twist throws everything into question. The new player is determined and without any redeeming qualities in his quest. I was glued to the pages as Rocco fought for his life and to prevent a horrifying attack. I loved watching the task force and law enforcement come together in a well-planned and executed defense. My only frustration was that the cult leader managed to weasel out of any consequences.
 
A secondary suspense plot involved Mercy, her father, and his supposed heir to the cult leadership. Mercy was allowed more freedom than others as her father tried to keep her from leaving altogether. He has plans to marry her to Alex, keeping the leadership within the family. He uses subtle and not-so-subtle manipulations to keep both under his thumb. But as Mercy grows closer to Rocco, her father uses those feelings against her. Complicating matters, Alex becomes more obsessed with her, and his jealousy comes out in dangerous ways. The final confrontation between Alex, Mercy, and Rocco was a nail-biter, and I ached for Mercy when it was over.
 
I enjoyed watching the development of the relationship between Rocco and Mercy. He fell for her more each day over the months he taught her self-defense. But he was also cultivating her as an asset; getting emotionally involved with an asset is never good. Meanwhile, Mercy also falls for him. Rocco listens to her when she talks about her life and doubts, giving her a safe place to vent. Besides his friendship, she becomes increasingly aware of him as a man but believes he would never be interested in someone like her. She feels hurt and betrayed when she discovers the truth about who he is, and it takes some effort for Rocco to regain her trust. I liked Rocco's support of Mercy as she deals with the truth about her father. Mercy sometimes frustrated me when she made questionable decisions in the belief she was protecting Rocco. I liked the ending and seeing Mercy embrace life outside Shining Light and her developing relationship with Rocco. 

Hero Unbound - Janie Crouch (Calamitte Jane Pub - Aug 2023)

Series: Linear Tactical: Oak Creek (Book 1)
 
Eva Dempsey is out of options.
 
She’s made it to Oak Creek, Wyoming with two traumatized dogs, twenty dollars, and a fear of damned near everything.
 
Things that didn’t make it with her? Her self-esteem, confidence, or any way of supporting herself.
 
Theo Lindstrom knows how to survive. He proved it as a child when he had to keep himself and sister alive in the wilderness. Now he runs Linear Tactical, the company his adoptive father helped create, and teaches survival skills to others.
 
So he recognizes the desperation in the eyes of the petite beauty who’s pulled into town, and knows there’s more to her story than she’s letting on.
 
He normally keeps to himself—for very good reasons—but he can’t this time. Something about Eva draws him in a way he can’t resist, even knowing she’s got secrets. The deadly kind.
 
When the danger she's running from shows up, Theo’s not going to let her fight it alone.
 
This is his town.
This is his woman.
 
And he’ll protect both to his last breath.
 
Terrific start to the "next generation" series of Linear Tactical books, which kicks off with Theo Lindstrom's story. LT readers were introduced to Theo and his little sister in Ghost when Dorian and Ray found them living on their own in the woods of Oak Creek. Theo was a young teen and struggled to care for and protect his little sister. After being informally adopted by Dorian and Ray (because, officially, none of them exist), Theo and his sister have led happier lives.
 
When the original members of LT decided to retire, their children took over the business, with Theo as their overall leader. Family has always been important to Theo; nothing is more important than keeping them safe. He has always been a loner, and his devotion to family and friends hasn't changed that. He's happiest in the woods or holed up in his house. He never expected the arrival of a beautiful woman to stir up feelings and dreams he never thought possible.
 
Eva has been on the run from her abusive former boyfriend for a long time with only her two dogs for companionship and doesn't stay long in one place. With everything she owns in her beat-up car and down to her last few dollars, she arrives in Oak Creek hoping to find someone who can give her a helping hand. She visited Oak Creek a few times as a child with her parents, Noah and Marilyn (seen in the Bree and Tanner books). Fortunately, she encounters Becky Mackay, a local vet, who remembers her and offers Eva a job helping with LT's animals. But Eva has secrets that could come back and bite her, and she struggles to keep enough distance from others to keep them. As she falls in love with Oak Creek and the people there, she knows she needs to come clean but fears their reactions. When her past arrives in Oak Creek and stirs up trouble, Eva is faced with a dilemma - trust herself and her new friends or give into the fear she ran from.
 
Theo and Eva are drawn to each other from the beginning. Something about her stirs Theo's protective instincts. He senses she has secrets, especially when things she says and does don't add up. I loved his sensitivity and how he supported and helped her even without having the whole story. Eva is so down on her luck that she's been sleeping in her car and a shed on the LT property. I liked how Theo found a way to move her into one of the rooms in the LT building without damaging her pride. They become closer after they work together to deliver Windswept's foal, and I liked how Theo's attention helped Eva regain some of her confidence.
 
I liked seeing the slow development of the relationship between Eva and Theo. As details of their pasts come out, it's easy to see why they connect so deeply. But Eva is wary of involvement after the disaster of her last relationship. I loved how Theo's mom, Ray, helped him see the best way to support Eva. As their relationship progresses, the feelings that develop are unlike anything either has ever experienced, and both are wary of it. But there is no denying the strength of the attraction or the feelings, and seeing them take the next step showed how they belonged together.
 
The story's suspense simmers through most of the book as details of what Eva endured are slowly revealed. The tension ramps up when unexplained occurrences raise fears in Eva's mind that her healing is regressing. The arrival of her ex in town raises Eva's fears as he starts raising doubts about her stability. I could feel her fear warring with the confidence she's struggled to build since she arrived in Oak Creek. I wanted to shake Theo when he allowed the ex to raise doubts in his mind. But he came through like a champ when Eva's life was in danger, and he realized the truth of his feelings for her. The final confrontation was intense, and I was glued to the pages until it was over. I loved seeing the new generation follow in their parents' footsteps in their teamwork and support of each other. The scene in the woods was terrific, and I laughed out loud at how it went down.
 
The epilogue was fantastic. I loved seeing how Eva's new friends helped and supported her as she dealt with getting her life back on track. I especially loved seeing her gain the professional recognition she deserved. The scene back in Oak Creek was outstanding and showed how much she was loved and appreciated.
 
I enjoyed some original LT members' cameo appearances, especially Dorian and Ray. I also loved getting to know some of the next generation. I loved Becky as the veterinarian who was so supportive of Eva. Becky's issues with Derek provide some secondary tension, and I look forward to reading their story. I also liked getting to know Lincoln a little bit. Like Theo, he is a loner but always there when needed. It was also fun to see some traditions continue, such as Ladies' Night at the Eagle's Nest and the trash talk among the guys. The Tokyo Tea sounds just as lethal as the Electric Blue Smurf. I can't wait to read more books in this series.