The Fearless One - Lori Foster (HQN - Jan 2024)

Series: Osborn Brothers (Book 2)

He had it all planned…until she showed up.
 
Jedidiah Stephens came to the Colorado Rockies for one reason: to uncover the truth behind the fire that killed her family. She's been chasing down clues, and everything has led her to an isolated campground. Her plan is to get a job there so she can investigate who comes and goes. Getting involved with her boss, Memphis Osborn, the ruggedly handsome groundskeeper, is definitely not part of the plan.
 
When Jedidiah arrives on the scene, Memphis just knows she's up to something. He can see the desperation in her eyes and warily agrees to hire her. As they work side by side, Diah triggers his deepest protective instincts -- and the chemistry between them ignites.
 
But the more Diah digs into her family's past, the more secrets she unravels…and the more afraid she becomes. She lost everything once before. She'll never forgive herself if now she loses Memphis, too.
 
Terrific blend of action, suspense, and romance. It can be easily read as a standalone, but reading the first book will fill in some of the gaps regarding the secondary characters in this book.
 
Memphis is a tech geek who purchases a rundown campground notorious for the shady characters who used it. He secretly plans to use his over-the-top security to identify and stop illegal activity. The site was still under renovation when Jedediah (Diah) showed up looking for a job. He's reluctant to hire her, but his brother insists she's perfect for the job. I loved that conversation between the two men. Memphis appears to be a laid-back guy, but there are moments where an unexpected intensity shines through.
 
Diah has been on the run for ten years and on her own for two, always looking over her shoulder for the danger she left behind. She is looking for the truth about the deaths of her family, and that search leads to Memphis's campground. All she needs is to get hired so she has the opportunity to search for it. I liked Diah a lot. She is much stronger and braver than she thinks she is. She is also intelligent and intuitive.
 
I loved the first meeting between Memphis and Diah. Memphis is unflustered at being caught in the outdoor shower while Diah brazens her way through her surprise. The banter between them was funny as each tried to hide their immediate attraction. Neither trusts easily, and I enjoyed watching them get to know each other. Memphis senses that Diah is hiding something but he's willing to give her the space and time she needs. From the start, he feels protective of her, and that protectiveness doesn't always sit well with the very independent Diah.
 
I liked the slow building of Memphis and Diah's feelings for each other. The chemistry is there and acknowledged, but there needs to be trust before they are ready to do anything about it. I loved their interactions, from arguing over Memphis's protectiveness to Diah needling him about the way they met. But once they've earned each other's trust, there is no holding back.
 
The suspense of the story was good. Diah is looking for information about the fire that killed her family. Unfortunately, she doesn't know exactly what she is looking for. At the same time, the local crime boss has plans for the campground. This guy is seriously creepy and evil in how he runs his business in town. The tension builds slowly until it explodes in a nail-biting confrontation at the end.
 
My favorite secondary character is Diah's dog, Tuff. Like Diah, he is wary of strangers and is as protective of her as she is of him. He has excellent instincts and takes to Memphis right away. Tuff's trust in Memphis is sweet and helps Diah trust him, too. Remmy runs a close second as a favorite. He is a former thug, so he still gives off bad-guy vibes but tries to live a better life. I liked the growing friendship between him and Memphis and his surprise that Memphis trusts him. After getting off to a rough start, Remmy and Diah also become friends. I laughed out loud at Diah and Remmy's conversation about her relationship with Memphis.
 
I liked seeing Hunter, Jodi, and Madison from the first book. Hunter and Memphis have a terrific relationship as brothers, and I liked their mutual respect. I liked the teasing between Jodi and Memphis. Madison fascinates me. I need to find that series and read it. 

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. 

 

Balancing Act - Emily March (Grand Central - Dec 2023)

Series: Lake in the Clouds (Book 2)
 
Genevieve Prentice is learning that reinventing herself is a bit like downsizing a house. Deciding what to keep and what needs to go gets complicated. After settling into life in Lake in the Clouds, Colorado, with her sister's help, she's finally finding her balance. But Genevieve's newfound steadiness is threatened when her daughter Willow unexpectedly arrives carrying a mountain of emotional baggage.
 
Willow Eldridge needs a fresh start, but that can't happen until she comes clean about her family's secrets. Thankfully, between caring for her two young children and planning her brother's wedding, Willow has plenty of reasons to delay the uncomfortable heart-to-heart with her mother. Yet when Willow grows close to her kind but standoffish neighbor and suspects he is keeping secrets of his own, she realizes there's no moving forward without facing what came before…
 
Can Genevieve and Willow jettison the pain of the past to create the future they so desperately crave? Beneath the crystal blue skies of Lake in the Clouds, anything seems possible.
 
Terrific story about family, finding yourself, and overcoming tragedy. This is the second book in the series. I haven't read the first one, but enough backstory was explained to keep me from feeling lost. There are three main characters: Genevieve Prentice, her daughter Willow Eldridge, and their neighbor, Noah Tannehill. Genevieve and her sister, Helen, own a lodge in Lake in the Clouds, Colorado. Willow, widowed two years earlier, moves there with her two children, looking for a fresh start and to reconnect with her mother. She meets the reclusive Noah, a firefighter recovering from injuries received during a tragic incident.
 
Genevieve has enjoyed her new life in Colorado. After many years as a mom, she has enjoyed traveling, exploring nature, and getting involved in her new community. With her latest project ending and facing a milestone birthday, she feels a bit lost about where her life is heading. When Willow moves to town, Genevieve suddenly finds herself slipping back into family mode, being a mom and Nana on call. She feels she is losing all her progress after her move. I could feel her frustration and fear as she wondered about her future. She received helpful advice from two men, and I enjoyed watching her take that advice. I liked seeing her reconnect with Willow, though there were a few bumps in their road along the way. Her support of Willow is crucial during an unexpected crisis. Her last scene in the book is hilarious and satisfying.
 
Willow left Nashville hoping to make a better life for her children and reconnect with her mother. During Willow's marriage, they became estranged, and she feels it was mostly her fault. She's ready to come clean about her marriage, her husband, and their life, but talking about it is more challenging than she expects. In the meantime, she steps in as the planner for her brother's upcoming wedding and discovers a possible career path. She also has eight-year-old Drew and four-year-old Emma to take care of. Drew is a pistol with some issues stemming from his father's death, and he keeps Willow on her toes. Drew brings Willow together with Noah in a scene that could have been any parent's nightmare but was the start of a meaningful friendship.  I liked seeing the changes and healing that Willow experienced during the book.
 
Noah moved into his grandfather's house in Lake in the Clouds after experiencing a tragic fire call that left him badly injured. He spends most of his time in his workshop, avoiding people whenever possible. Thanks to Drew, Noah, and Willow are frequently thrown together and soon form a friendship. Noah is surprised to find himself emerging from his shell. I ached for Noah and the trauma he suffered and rooted for him to overcome the demons that haunted him.
 
I enjoyed watching the relationship between Noah and Willow develop. It started rocky, thanks to Drew's antics, but they soon discovered that their traumatic pasts made it easier to relate to each other. The more time they spent together, the closer they grew, and the more they could share the details of their pasts. I liked how they were able to help each other look at events from a different perspective, enabling them to heal and move forward. There are also some beautiful scenes involving them and the children and the effect on their developing relationship. They each experience an unexpected curveball that must be dealt with before they can look to a future together, but they make it happen with love and support from each other and their friends and families.
 
Secondary characters such as Gabe Throckmorton and Genevieve's sister Helen add extra interest to the book. I liked Gabe, who is still grieving the loss of his wife but has a growing and changing friendship with Genevieve. I look forward to later books and seeing if that relationship progresses. I loved Helen. She is fun-loving and outspoken, and she loves her family. She and Genevieve have had a great time together over the past two years, and she is understandably hurt when Genevieve appears to no longer have time for her. They must deal with a few growing pains, but in the end, their relationship is stronger than ever. I laughed out loud at Helen's method of getting stop signs for the town. 

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.

Dead Again - Nicole Severn (HI #2147 - June 2023)

Series: Defenders of Battle Mountain (Book 6)
 
She disappeared from his life once
Can he trust her now?
 
Detective Riggs Karig has never forgotten his childhood best friend. Now he's found her again, and he wants to know how she's involved in his partner's death. He soon discovers that Macie Barclay is a target, not a suspect -- and that she knows more about the case he's working than he does. Can they put their past behind them to save an innocent life?
 
Terrific story. I've been hoping for Macie's story from the beginning of the series. She has always been an intriguing character with her attitude and especially the snark she directs toward Easton Ford. At the end of the previous book, we discover that Macie has been hiding from something and is preparing to run again.
 
This book opens with Macie's preparations to run from whatever in her past has been stalking her. But before she can escape, someone else from her past appears at her door. Riggs was one of her best friends as a child, along with a girl named Hazel. When Hazel was murdered, Macie and her parents left town, fearing for her life. Macie has been on the run for twenty-five years but is also looking for the man who wrecked her life.
 
Detective Riggs Karig was devastated when Hazel was murdered, and Macie disappeared. I ached for him as his story was revealed over the course of the book. His life afterward wasn't easy, but it motivated him to become a police detective. His tough exterior hides pain and issues he barely recognizes, much less admits.
 
Riggs shows up in Battle Mountain while investigating his ex-partner's death. He's stunned to find his childhood friend living under an assumed name and wonders why his partner had Macie's name and address on a note in his pocket at the time of his death. The initial meeting between Riggs and Macie was contentious, with Macie wanting to run and Riggs insisting she stay and help him. Words are exchanged about Hazel's murder and the effect on both their lives. All debate comes to an end when Macie is attacked. Now, Riggs not only wants her help, he wants to keep her safe. A surprise discovery links Hazel's murder to another case and brings them together to investigate.
 
The tension goes up when a child close to Macie disappears. She is determined to find Penny before it is too late. The action, twists, and turns kept me glued to the pages as I rooted for Riggs and Macie to succeed. They were foiled every time they got close, and I could feel their fear and desperation. The final confrontation had me on the edge of my seat until it was over. The final twist of the killer's identity was a chilling revelation.
 
I enjoyed watching the relationship between Macie and Riggs develop. They had been so close as children but no longer knew each other. The slow revealing of each other's painful pasts made them realize that neither had escaped the effects of Hazel's murder. Working together brought them closer together. Still, despite their intense attraction, trust didn't come easy. Even when each accepted their feelings, belief in a future together was difficult. Macie would prefer to stay in Battle Mountain, where she finally feels at home. Riggs intends to return to New Mexico - his reaction to the Colorado environment was hilarious. There is a rough patch when Macie reveals the final part of her past, and Riggs reacts badly, driving a wedge between them. It takes nearly losing her for Riggs to realize how much he loves and needs her. The scene in the hospital was deeply emotional, and the later scene at the Ford ranch was the perfect ending to the book and series. 

  

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. 

Over Her Dead Body - Nichole Severn (HI #2141 - May 2023)

Series: Defenders of Battle Mountain (Book 5)
 
Someone wants her dead.
It's up to him to make sure that doesn't happen.
 
The first bullet didn't kill her. But the next one might. With a target on her back, Battle Mountain reserve officer Isla Vachs has no choice but to trust Adan Sergeant. The soldier-turned-bodyguard has one final mission: protect his best friend's widow and her daughter. As each step plunges Adan and Isla deeper into a sniper's crosshairs, a deadly truth is about to become chillingly clear…
 
This emotional, action-packed book kept me glued to the pages from start to finish. Two months earlier, Isla, an EMT, was shot in what appeared to be a random shooting. Since then, she has become a BMPD reserve officer, the better to protect herself and her daughter, Mazi. As this book opens, someone takes another shot at her, and she is tackled simultaneously. The bullet could have been fatal if she hadn't been wearing her vest. Then she is stunned to discover that the person who tackled her is her late husband's best friend, Adan - the man she holds responsible for Clive's death.
 
Adan feels guilty about being unable to protect Clive on their last mission in the army. Clive's last request was that Adan protects his wife and child, and when he hears rumors that Isla is in danger, he drops everything to watch over her and Mazi.
 
The twists and turns of this story kept me hooked to the end. The BMPD is in a tough place thanks to the crime that has plagued the town for the last year. The townspeople are scared and questioning the department's capability, and the mayor uses them as a political football. Another shooting has Adan and Ilsa joining forces to investigate. Neither expects the web of lies, secrets, betrayal, and murder that confronts them. I could feel their confusion and horror at what they discovered. The threats against them never let up, and there were times when I wondered how they would resolve the problem. The ending was a nail-biter, and I was glued to the pages as the action unfolded. I loved the resolution and seeing the bad guys get what they deserved.
 
I enjoyed seeing the relationship develop between Isla and Adan. They had always been friends because of Clint, and Mazi adored her Uncle Adan. But when Clint died, Isla blamed Adan and shut him out of her life. She wasn't happy to have him show up in Battle Mountain, but she couldn't refuse his help when the shooting started. I loved Adan's protectiveness toward both of "his girls." After years of being alone, spending time with Isla and Mazi made him realize what he was missing - and that he'd been in love with Isla for years. The attraction Isla feels for Adan makes her feel guilty, as though she is betraying Clint, and she tries putting distance between them. But in the end, she admits that life and love go on.
 
The epilogue is a teaser for the next book, which involves the quirky police dispatcher Macie. She appears to have been hiding a big secret, which is about to show up on her doorstep.

Love at First Bark - Michelle Major (HSE #3010 - Oct 2023)

Series: Crimson Colorado (Book 12)
 
Sometimes love happens in the most re-bark-able way.
 
Cassie Raebourn's love life has gone to the dogs -- literally. A childhood trauma inspired her career as a veterinarian where she indulges her special fondness for dogs. Then, Aiden Riley unexpectedly walks into her clinic and steals her heart. The reckless rodeo star was at the center of the trauma all those years ago. Cassie knows Aiden feels the attraction too. Can they bury the past and find the courage to let each other in?
 
The story opens with a heartbreaking scene involving Cassie and Aiden as children. The events of that day affected each differently as they grew into adulthood. Aiden and his mother and sister left Crimson right after this, escaping from an abusive situation.
 
Twenty years later, Cassie is a veterinarian filling in at the same vet's office where she volunteered as a child, hoping to be hired permanently. She's surprised when Aiden arrives with his nephew, George, who has found an injured puppy. Cassie immediately takes care of the pup, which gets her in trouble with the other vet. Some antagonistic sparks are flying between Aiden and Cassie, as he insists they are not keeping the dog while Cassie treats the situation like they are. But under the antagonism are sparks of another sort.
 
Cassie has been an animal lover all her life. It shows in her menagerie at home and how she connects with the animals and their owners at work. She gives her all to her work to the detriment of her personal life. Her sunny personality covers some painful memories that affect how she approaches relationships.
 
Because of the abuse he suffered as a child, Aiden has closed off his heart and feelings to everyone except his sister and nephew. He is in town for a short time to help them after the death of his sister's husband. He does not intend to stay long in a town with so many bad memories.
 
I enjoyed watching the relationship between Cassie and Aiden develop. Though they try to avoid each other and the sparks that fly between them, circumstances keep throwing them together. Cassie's sunny personality soon finds its way into the dark corners of Aiden's heart. I enjoyed seeing them spend time together, whether dealing with dogs or hiking local trails. Giving into their attraction brings them closer, but while Cassie is ready for more, Aiden can't let go of his need to protect himself. It takes the thought of losing her for him to finally let go of his fears and let her in. Cassie also has to overcome her insecurities and, in doing so, finds a future she hadn't expected.
 
The epilogue was terrific. I enjoyed seeing what a difference love has made in their lives.
 
I liked the scenes showing Cassie in her work as a vet. Her care and compassion make a big difference in the lives of the pets and owners she interacts with. I detested the vet she was working with - the same vet who Aiden dealt with twenty years ago. He is heartless and has no business being a vet. His constant denigration of Cassie was infuriating. The vet she was filling in for was her mentor as a child. I expected better of him in his dealings with Cassie. He came through in the end but should have been more supportive earlier.

Deception at Dixon Pass - Cindi Myers (HI #2164 - Sept 2023)

Series: Eagle Mountain: Critical Response (Book 1)
 
A stranger with amnesia is the only key to unlocking a search and rescue mystery…
 
The injured man search-and-rescue volunteer Grace Wilcox discovers left for dead in a Colorado snowstorm can't remember why he's on Eagle Mountain or even who he is. But bloody footprints discovered near a crime scene spark a memory of deception and the chase for a murderer. Now, as Grace works with the handsome stranger to find out who he's after and what really happened at Dixon Pass, they must rely on each other for survival before a desperate killer strikes again…
 
Whew! Having a naked and injured man appear out of a blinding snowstorm is one heck of an opening. Grace was returning from a search and rescue call when the man appeared a short distance from her cabin. After she gets him to her home and treats his injuries, she discovers he can't remember who he is or what happened to him. His memory mostly returns the following day, but the events leading up to Grace finding him are frustratingly elusive. Meanwhile, his car was found abandoned on the side of the road with a murdered woman in the backseat and his gun on the floor. Needless to say, the Eagle Mountain sheriff's office is suspicious of his story.
 
Grace is an environmental scientist who lives and works in a remote cabin outside town. Declan makes quite an impression on her, and she is reluctant to believe the suspicions about him. She is particularly empathetic to his memory loss as a victim of a similar experience. Her instincts tell her that he is a victim, not a perpetrator. I liked her willingness to help him.
 
Declan remembers enough to know he was tracking an escaped serial killer, an action deeply personal for him. I understood his determination, considering the circumstances of Barclay's escape. That he is doing so against orders makes no difference to him.
 
The suspense of this story kept me glued to the pages from start to finish. Declan is positive that Bradley is in Eagle Mountain, but the man's ability to blend in makes it difficult to identify him. I liked Grace's willingness to help him, and Declan even had Gage convinced. The suspense built as two likely suspects were identified, but nothing could be done without proof. The author kept me guessing to the end, finishing with a final confrontation that could have ended badly. I loved Grace's ability to think and act under pressure and the difference it made for her and Declan's survival.
 
I also enjoyed the development of the relationship between Declan and Grace. There was a connection between them from the moment Grace found him in that blizzard. Her experience with amnesia made her especially empathetic to what he was going through. Added to that connection was an attraction that neither could deny. Both are loners - Grace because of her work and the trauma she endured as a child, and Declan because he has been focused on chasing Bradley for five years. I loved seeing them open up with each other and share their deepest fears and feelings. I loved Declan's look into Grace's past and what he found out about the events that haunt her. I loved the ending and seeing the changes in store for them.
 
This was a great start to the new series, and I can't wait to see what is next in store for the people of Eagle Mountain.

Presumed Dead - Nichole Severn (HI #2107 - Nov 2022)

Series: Defenders of Battle Mountain (Book 4)
 
Their shared history could be their undoing.
 
Forced to partner up, reserve officer Kendric Hudson and missing persons agent Campbell Dwyer work a baffling abduction case that gets more dangerous with each new revelation. As they battle a mounting threat, they must trust one another with their deepest secrets. But the truth they uncover could leave them lucky to escape with their lives…
 
Terrific blend of second chance romance and suspense that kept me glued to the pages from start to finish. Kendric is Battle Mountain's newest reserve officer. A former coworker of Cree's (Dead on Arrival), he was injured in the same blast that hurt Cree. Scarred physically and emotionally, Kendric walked away from his life in Denver, including the woman he loved. He's found a home and family in the close-knit Battle Mountain Police Department and community and is determined to do his best to serve them. Then a missing persons case brings a blast from his past, and his new life is turned upside down.
 
Campbell has been sent from the Colorado Bureau of Investigation to augment BMPD's tiny force during this case. She has an outstanding record of success in her cases. But there is more to Campbell's presence in Battle Mountain than meets the eye.
 
The sparks fly between Kendric and Campbell from the moment she appears. She makes snarky comments about him burying himself in the backwoods, and he digs at her laser focus on cases to the exclusion of everything else. But neither can deny the attraction that still exists even after five years apart. Kendric is determined to ignore it. He believes his scars prevent a relationship that isn't based on pity. Campbell has secrets that could destroy any chance of a reconciliation. I liked watching them work together and seeing their respect for each other's abilities. They grow closer, but her secrets and his fears are obstacles that must be overcome before they have a chance at happiness. I liked the ending and seeing how everything worked out.
 
The suspense of the story was a roller coaster of twists and turns. A pregnant woman was abducted from her home in the middle of the night, and her husband was shot and left for dead. But as Kendric and Campbell dig deeper into their investigation, there are more questions than answers. Just when I thought I knew what was happening, the author flipped everything I thought I knew on its head. Then the bad guy makes the case personal for Campbell, and the tension goes through the roof. I was on the edge of my seat as Campbell went rogue and ended up in mortal danger. The final confrontation was a nail-biter that kept me turning the pages until it was over.
 
The revelation of Campbell's secrets did initially cause some strain between her and Kendric and between her and the rest of the BMPD. I ached for Kendric over the first secret and its effect on him. I could feel his anguish over it and rooted for Campbell to be able to break through the fears that held him back. The second secret involved the entire BMPD. I could understand why Campbell was sent to investigate, but having read the series from the beginning, I knew her bosses were barking up the wrong tree. I was glad that Campbell believed the truth pretty quickly. 

 

Dead on Arrival - Nichole Severn (HI #2099 - Oct 2022)

Series: Defenders of Battle Mountain (Book 3)
 
A bomb-strapped body
A rookie cop caught in the inferno
 
After barely escaping a deadly explosion, Officer Alma Majors has one clue to identify the victim and solve the case: a sliver of bone. But it's going to take more than shrapnel to expose the culprit. Bomb expert Cree Gregson will risk everything to protect his neighbor from a killer determined to avoid exposure. Protecting his heart may prove more difficult…
 
Good book about two people who must overcome painful pasts to move on to a better future. Alma was a successful anthropologist until her jealous husband turned to abuse. She escaped the marriage, moved home to Battle Mountain, and became a reserve officer with the Battle Mountain police department. Though she is friendly to those she meets, Alma keeps a distance between herself and others, unable to trust enough to open her heart. Cree is a bomb tech in another town who moved to Battle Mountain to escape the guilty memories from a bombing he couldn't prevent. He's isolated himself, trusting no one else.
 
The book's explosive opening sucked me into the story, and didn't let go until I'd read the last page. Alma was sent to check out reports of suspicious activity in a gulch, where she found a woman with a bomb sewn to her body. Alma barely escaped with her life. Her only clue to identifying the body is a sliver of bone. Cree heard the bomb blast, and even though he was on a leave of absence from his unit, he still rushed to the site and offered his services. Seeing his neighbor, Alma, involved stirs his protective instincts.
 
While others investigate the bombing, Alma is determined to identify the victim. If she can do that, it should lead to the who and why behind it. The investigation quickly becomes complicated when the bomber sets more explosives to cover their identity. Then the bomber targets Alma herself. From destroying the contents of Alma's apartment to capturing Alma and attempting to turn her into a living bomb, the story's intensity increases the closer Alma and Cree get to identifying them. Alma's methods were intriguing, bringing in her past work as an anthropologist. The final confrontation was a nail-biter that kept me glued to the pages until it was over. Alma's determination and Cree's protectiveness came together in a heart-pounding scene.
 
I enjoyed seeing the relationship between Alma and Cree develop. Neither is looking for love. Alma is still dealing with the aftereffects of her abusive marriage. Cree is wrapped up in the guilt he still feels over his last case. I loved Cree's protectiveness toward Alma and his sensitivity to what she went through. I liked seeing them grow closer as they worked together. Sharing what they'd experienced helped each break down the walls that kept their feelings locked up. It takes nearly losing each other to open their eyes to what has been missing in their lives. I liked the ending and seeing them look forward to a future together.
 
The end of the book and the epilogue introduced a new character - ATF agent Kendric Hudson. A former coworker of Cree's, it looks like he will stick around Battle Mountain. I liked how he encouraged Cree to follow his heart and provided some straight talk about the case that injured them. He will likely be the focus of the next book of the series.

Dead Giveaway - Nichole Severn (HI #2059 - Mar 2022)

Series: Defenders of Battle Mountain (Book 2)
 
He vowed to never see her again
Now she needs him more than ever.
 
Deputy Easton Ford left Battle Mountain -- and the woman who broke his heart -- behind. Now District Attorney Genevieve Alexander is targeted by a killer, and there's only one man she trusts to protect her: her ex-fiancé. Easton will do everything to keep her safe. But will his past secrets get them both killed?
 
Terrific book that kept me hooked from start to finish. The action and suspense were intense, and the rekindling relationship was full of pitfalls from their past.
 
Genevieve is the DA for another town. Fifteen years earlier, she left her fiancé, Easton, at the altar, moved three hours away and started a new life. After finding a dead body in her home and discovering that the serial killer she thought she had put away was only a copycat, Genevieve knows she needs help. She returns to Battle Mountain and the only man she trusts to keep her safe - Easton.
 
After the disaster of his failed wedding, Easton joined the military to escape the memories and the heartbreak. He returned to Battle Mountain a year ago after losing his team left him with flashbacks and PTSD. Locking himself away in his cabin and avoiding everyone, he began reconnecting a few months ago, after his father's death and helping his brother catch a serial killer (Grave Danger). The last thing he expects is to find Genevieve on his doorstep asking for help.
 
Though their first encounter doesn't go well, Easton can't deny his need to protect Genevieve. As they work together to identify and stop The Contractor, it becomes evident that their feelings for each other are as strong as ever. But can they overcome the hurts and insecurities of the past to find a new life together? I ached for Easton, who is wrapped up in survivor's guilt, grief for his father, and unresolved feelings about Genevieve's desertion. He hasn't been able to open up about his pain with any of his family, so it has festered inside him. Somehow, he can share those memories and the pain with Genevieve. I liked how she acknowledged his feelings, then showed him that the events weren't his fault, setting him on the road to healing.
 
Genevieve still feels guilty about the way she left Easton, admitting that she took the coward's way out. Her need to know herself outside of her relationships drove her away, and she worked hard to establish that identity and likes the life she has now. But seeing Easton again stirs up the old feelings and causes her to worry about losing herself again.
 
I loved watching Easton and Genevieve grow closer as they worked together. But neither one appeared to have learned from their past mistakes. Though Easton realizes he still loves Genevieve, his way of showing it brings back Genevieve's fears and insecurities. I ached for Easton but wanted to shake him for slipping back into old habits. I hurt for Genevieve, too, because she loves him but is afraid to trust herself. I liked how she stood up for herself and her needs. It takes nearly losing each other permanently to be ready to put the past behind them.
 
The suspense of this story had me glued to the pages from start to finish. The first pages set the scene of a ticked-off serial killer because someone else has been convicted of his crimes. He takes his anger to the DA responsible in a very personal and grisly manner, making it clear that he expects her to do a better job by giving her a "second chance." Genevieve's fear is palpable, as is her dismay at the mistake and her determination to get it right. It doesn't help that the local police chief indicates that he believes she is the guilty party. When Genevieve and Easton begin working together to unmask the killer, they return to the beginning. However, no matter what they discover, the killer always seems to be one step ahead of them.
 
The tension ramps up as the information Easton and Genevieve unearth draw them closer to a shocking revelation. Just when they think they have solved it, an unexpected twist puts Genevieve in mortal danger. I was shocked by the revelations I didn't see coming, and I put an unusual spin on the usual serial killer scenario. Genevieve impressed me with her fortitude and determination, making the final confrontation one of the best I've ever read.
 
There are two epilogues. A mini one at the end of the last chapter, updating Genevieve and Easton's lives three months later, and the main epilogue is the lead-in to the next book. 

The Dangerous One - Lori Foster (HQN - Feb 2023)

Series: Osborn Brothers (Book 1)
 
Being alone is what he wanted… All he needed was her.
 
Hunter Osborn left his family, his friends and his job as a park ranger after uncovering a disturbing crime scene. Haunted by nightmares and harrowing memories, Hunter relocated to an isolated property near Triple Creek, Colorado, where he lives alone and keeps his interactions with people to a minimum.
 
Still, Hunter can spot trouble from a mile away, and when he encounters Jodi Bentley, he knows she's trouble of the most tempting kind -- even more tempting when she moves into the run-down cabin next door. Jodi is tough as nails, sexy as hell -- and clearly struggles with her own traumatic past. Hunter tries to keep his distance, but when Jodi's life is threatened, he can't help being drawn out of his own darkness and into hers.
 
Terrific slow-burn romance mixed with intriguing suspense. The female character, Jodi, was a secondary character in an earlier series that I have yet to read. I found both main characters to be easy to like and relate to.
 
Hunter is a former park ranger haunted by the memory of a disturbing crime scene. He left his job, family, and friends to move to an isolated property in a small community. He lives alone with his dog, Turbo, for companionship and his work restoring classic cars to keep him busy. His ability to spot trouble is undiminished, and his first impression of Jodi is that she is trouble with a capital T.
 
Jodi has moved to Triple Creek, looking for a fresh start. With the help of her friends/found family, she's started her landscaping business and is looking forward to a "normal life." She, too, is fighting the demons of a traumatic past and struggling to put it behind her.
 
I loved the first meeting between Hunter and Jodi. He notices her while arguing with the owner of his latest car restoration, Worth Linlow. He sees her beauty first and her take-no-prisoners attitude when Linlow tries to pull the same scam on her. As soon as they meet, they recognize each other as kindred spirits thanks to their traumatic pasts. Each bought their properties to give them the peace and solitude to deal with their demons. When Hunter realizes that Jodi has moved into the property next door, he is dismayed by the loss of that prized solitude.
 
A slow-growing friendship develops as they begin to lean on each other a little bit, but it isn't easy for either to accept help. I loved the banter between them as they got to know each other and slowly developed the trust that allowed them to share their pasts. There are some sweet scenes between them as their friendship deepens and the sparks between them grow. Hunter has a more romantic soul than I expected, and I enjoyed watching him take on Jodi's wariness. Jodi is surprisingly naïve about some things, notably her effect on Hunter. She has little experience with love, and it takes her a while to catch on to Hunter's effect on her. I loved Hunter's patience and support of Jodi as he earned her trust. The ending was terrific, and I loved seeing them realize they belonged together.
 
When trouble comes knocking on Jodi's door, Hunter's protectiveness comes to the surface. There is some head-butting going on as Hunter wants to keep her safe, and Jodi refuses to be the helpless damsel-in-distress. Jodi is a kick-butt woman with some serious skills and more than a bit of stubbornness. Hunter refuses to let her face the trouble alone, and it takes some effort for them to hammer out a working solution.
 
The story's suspense begins when the local crime boss discovers that the property where he's been stashing his ill-gotten gains is now occupied, making it impossible to retrieve his latest package. He's determined to drive Jodi away or put an end to her, and his minions are willing to use any method to accomplish that goal. There are tense moments as the attacks on Jodi intensify the more desperate the bad guy gets. The final confrontation was terrific, thanks to some fantastic teamwork by Hunter, Jodi, and her McKenzie "family."
 
I loved the secondary characters of Hunter's dog, Turbo, and his brother, Memphis. Turbo was adorable with his "broken" howl and immediate fascination with Jodi. He's a bit of a goof until one of his people is threatened, then he turns super protective. I liked getting to know Hunter's brother, Memphis. The closeness of the two brothers was evident, as was Memphis's worry about Hunter's withdrawal. Memphis is the techie in the family, and I enjoyed seeing him jump in to help Hunter and Jodi deal with their problems. It was also fun to see him interact with Madison McKenzie. I'm looking forward to reading his book.

Colton's Ultimate Test - Beth Cornelison (HRS #2211 - Jan 2023)

Series: Coltons of Colorado (Book 12)
 
He's her total opposite
And exactly who she needs by her side
 
By-the-book attorney Morgan Colton has vowed to extinguish the flames she once foolishly ignited with Roman DiMera. But when a man threatening her family goes on the run, Morgan discovers street-smart bar owner Roman is far more than the sum of his mistakes. And the sparks flying between them make Morgan wonder if he could be so much more than her partner in getting justice for the Coltons.
 
Fantastic conclusion to the series. Morgan and her twin brother, Caleb, are lawyers who also started the Truth Foundation, a group dedicated to righting the wrongs caused by their corrupt father. Unfortunately, Ron Spence, one of the "innocent" victims, turned out to be not so innocent after all, and the Coltons have spent almost a year trying to get him back into custody.
 
When Spence steals a large amount of money (To Trust a Colton Cowboy), Morgan knows he'll have to find a way to get it out of the country, most likely by laundering it through some unscrupulous business. With a short time to figure it out, Morgan knows of one man who might be able to help - Roman DiMera. The problem is that she and Roman have a history she's tried unsuccessfully to forget.
 
Roman owns a bar where, almost a year earlier, Morgan and her friends celebrated a birthday a little too well. While the super-responsible Morgan ensured her friends had safe ways home, her rideshare was unavailable. Roman, unable to take his eyes off her all evening, offered to drive her home. The sparks between them were undeniable, and they shared a very passionate kiss before the alcohol won the fight. Both remember that night - Roman with pleasure and Morgan with embarrassment.
 
Morgan goes to Roman for help because she knows he spent time in prison for insider trading and hopes he can give her ideas on where to look for money laundering information. This is an intensely awkward scene, as Morgan's discomfort over their last encounter, his prison record, and her issues with something from her past cause her to be surprisingly inarticulate. I ached for Roman as he felt judged and disrespected.
 
I liked Roman a lot. He doesn't try to hide or minimize his past. He's upfront about what he did, knew he was doing wrong, and deserved his punishment. He also admits that his time in prison had a beneficial effect on him. I liked that he also employs other ex-cons, giving them a chance that few other employers do. An incident with one of those employees ultimately showed what a good man he is.
 
I enjoyed seeing the relationship develop between Morgan and Roman. Morgan is so buttoned-up and uptight at the beginning, with her work-focused intensity, that she is flummoxed by her attraction to Roman. She gets so flustered by his request for her to have dinner with him in exchange for his help that I couldn't help laughing, especially when he follows it up with another scorching kiss. I was a little disappointed in her initially because she couldn't get past his prison record. I liked that he called her out on it; she was smart enough to realize how unfairly she treated him. Once they got past the initial awkwardness, it was lovely to see how much they had in common.
 
I loved seeing them grow closer as they collaborated to get the information to bring down Spence. Roman is very protective of her, which gets on Morgan's nerves. She is independent, stubborn, and doesn't back down when she's made up her mind. There are a few instances of them butting heads, and it's usually a toss-up as to who will win that round. I liked that Morgan quickly came to trust Roman, though her past creates some obstacles that cause problems. Roman knows his feelings for Morgan very quickly, and though she suspects what hers are, she has trouble getting out of her head long enough to listen to her heart. I hurt for Roman when he thought their relationship was doomed, and I loved how Morgan showed her love for him.
 
The suspense was fantastic and kept me glued to the pages from start to finish. I've read every book in the series, so the Coltons' frustration with Spence's elusiveness was perfectly understandable. Morgan and Roman made a great team, as Roman's understanding of the people they dealt with was a good balance for Morgan's natural impatience. I laughed at Morgan's reaction to her disguise during their foray at the warehouse, and her determination impressed me. The intensity increased when they got the needed information, and the entire Colton clan convened to plan their action. The final confrontation was a nail-biter with a twist that threw their careful planning into chaos. The resolution was well done, with plenty of action and nerve-wracking tension. The epilogue was a terrific wrap-up for the book and the series.

To Trust a Colton Cowboy - Dana Nussio (HRS #2207 - Dec 2022)

Series: Coltons of Colorado (Book 11)
 
A cyberstalker is terrorizing her…
And the threats are escalating.
 
The threatening texts Kayla St. James is receiving insist she knows where something is hidden. Terrified, she confides in her boss, rancher Jasper Colton. Though Jasper's father sent her dad to prison, Kayla's only option is to trust him. But as the terror campaign intensifies, Kayla begins to care for Jasper despite her misgivings. Can two former enemies unite to take down a vicious stalker?
 
Terrific combination of romance and suspense. Kayla and Jasper have a complicated relationship. She works for him on the ranch he owns with his sister. She was hired after her family's ranch was foreclosed on due to her father being sent to prison, and Jasper's father was the judge who did it. Kayla maintains that her dad was innocent, especially as Judge Colton was later found to be corrupt. Kayla harbors a deep resentment toward the Coltons because of it, while Jasper feels guilty because of his father's actions.
 
Matters become complicated when Kayla begins receiving threatening texts. Those texts insist she knows where something is hidden, but she has no idea what they are talking about. She initially tries to blow them off as pranks. Jasper witnesses her reaction when a particularly threatening message arrives and finally convinces her to tell him about it. Jasper's protective instincts kick in as he insists on helping her.
 
I enjoyed watching the relationship develop between Kayla and Jasper. The attraction is there from the beginning, which frustrates Kayla. How can she be attracted to the man she considers her family's enemy? She copes by avoiding him whenever possible. For Jasper, Kayla is an employee and, therefore, off-limits. Kayla is reluctant when Jasper insists she moves into his house for her protection but gives in after another text. Jasper was sweet with his attempts to care for her, while Kayla's stubborn independence made her fight what she was afraid to accept. As she became more comfortable around him, her snappy comebacks to his comments were fun to see.
 
The more time they spent together, the stronger their attraction, and the deeper the feelings grew. I was slightly disappointed in Jasper's reluctance to expose his feelings to his family, especially since they all suspected the truth. Kayla knew the truth of her feelings but believed that Jasper wouldn't be interested in anything permanent with the daughter of a convict. I ached for Jasper when he planned a surprise for Kayla, and her stubborn pride took it the wrong way. It takes a little time apart and some self-examination for Kayla to realize that just because she can do things herself doesn't mean she has to. I loved the ending and seeing them look forward to a future together.
 
The suspense was excellent. The disturbing texts that turn threatening indicate that someone believes that Kayla has information the texter wants. You can feel her fear as the tone of the texts escalates. Once she involves Jasper, who in turn involves several of his siblings, the intensity builds. It doesn't take long to figure out that it has something to do with Kayla's father. Unexpected revelations expose a different side of her father and answer the question posed by the texter. There are a couple of intense confrontations and an unexpected twist to the ending. A sighting of the series' archenemy, Ronald Spence, adds another layer of strain to the story.
 
I loved seeing more of the Colton family and the progress of the previous relationships. The Thanksgiving and Christmas party get-togethers showcased the family's closeness, from teasing encounters to unquestioning support. There was a sweet scene between Colton matriarch Isa and the police chief that also had me laughing out loud at the family's reactions.