Canyon Kidnapping - Cindi Myers (HI #2110 - Dec 2022)

Series: Eagle Mountain Search and Rescue (Book 2)
 
Can the search for a missing child
Lay the ghosts of their past to rest?
 
Haunted by tragedy, Search and Rescue volunteer Sheri Stevens is determined to help find a missing child she saw moments before she was taken. Erik Lester, lead detective on the case -- and Sheri's ex-husband -- is also dedicated to bringing the little girl home. As reigniting passion forges an even deeper bond between Sheri and Erik, a cold trail suddenly turns red-hot. Will history repeat itself or is this a second chance to vanquish the ghosts of the past?
 
Terrific combination of second-chance romance and emotional suspense. Sheri moved to Eagle Mountain to start over after the death of her daughter and the end of her marriage. As a teacher, Eagle Mountain Search and Rescue Team member, and avid competitive climber, keeping busy helps her deal with her grief. As the book opens, she witnesses the kidnapping of a little girl, though she doesn't know it at the time. While speaking with the sheriff and the parents about what she saw, a Colorado Bureau of Investigation detective appears, looking for the suspected kidnapper. Sheri is shocked to see her ex-husband, Erik.
 
Erik is hot on the trail of an embezzler who jumped bail to avoid his trial. He didn't expect to find his quarry involved in a kidnapping. He's surprised when he arrives in Eagle Mountain and sees Sheri for the first time in two years. He notices the changes in her immediately and is just as drawn to her as he was when they were married.
 
This book hooked me from the first chapter with its complicated suspense and second-chance romance. Because of the tragedy of losing her daughter, Sheri is fully invested in helping to bring young Dawn home. I loved watching her and Erik work together, combining her area knowledge with his detective skills. As they spent time together, their worry about Dawn helped them talk about and work through the issues that ended their marriage. I liked how their rekindling attraction opened their eyes to the love they never lost. However, there is still a little wariness on both their parts until a dangerous situation reminds them that you never know how short your time together might be.
 
The suspense of the story was outstanding. From the moment Dawn disappeared, everyone was intent on finding her as soon as possible. There were twists and turns, from the intentionally wrecked car to their disappearance, leading law enforcement to believe the kidnapper wasn't working alone. I could feel their frustration as time passed, and they still couldn't find her. An unexpected development changed everything and quickly led Erik and the others where they needed to be. The final confrontation was tense and emotional, though in some unexpected ways. I loved how it made Sheri and Erik realize the truth of their feelings and that they were ready to try again.

A Second Chance in Valentine Valley - Emma Cane (Oliver Heber Books - Nov 2022)

Series: Valentine Valley (Book 6.6)
 
Steph Brissette is inching back to life after losing her high school sweetheart husband in a tragic accident. Between her family, her work at the Sugar and Spice Bakery, and helping the Valentine Valley widows save an historic schoolhouse, her days are full. It's only in her dreams that she revisits the accident - one that she can't quite convince herself was not her fault. That is, until Jeremy Chen comes back to town.
 
Jeremy left Valentine for medical school and has now returned to take his place as the town's new doctor. He first knew Steph as the bratty little sister of his best friend. Then, in one heartbreaking moment, she became the woman he saved - and the widow of the man he couldn't help. Still searching for his new place in town, Jeremy now sees Steph as a desirable woman. But can she ever look at him without seeing everything she lost? The only certainty is that in a town called Valentine, love is always worth a second chance.
 
This was a short and sweet second chance story. Steph is a young widow who lost her husband in a terrible skiing accident. Her recovery from the loss has been slow, as she believes the accident was her fault. She stays busy by working at the bakery she co-owns with her sister and helping the local widows' group raise the funds to save an historic schoolhouse. She's not looking for a new relationship; she believes she's had her one shot at love.
 
Jeremy grew up in Valentine Valley and returned after he finished medical school to replace the retiring town doctor. He remembers Steph - first as his best friend's bratty little sister, then as the widow of the man he was too late to save during an avalanche.
 
I enjoyed watching the relationship develop between Steph and Jeremy. He's noticed her more as a woman in the last few months, to the point where he refuses to accept her as a patient. He'd rather date her than doctor her but his own guilty feelings keep him from pushing the issue. Fortunately for them, the local widows' group also has matchmaking tendencies. They push Steph and Jeremy into working together to solve a mystery involving the town's historic schoolhouse. As they spend time together, each shares their memories of that terrible day, clearing the way for healing to begin.
 
I loved following their search for the schoolhouse's past. Along the way they discover that Jeremy's family has a connection to the schoolhouse. They uncover a secret that piques their interest. If it is true, it could mean a big change for the town. I loved what they found, what they did with it, and the stunning surprise that awaited them. The ending was sweet and I look forward to seeing more of them in future books. 

 

The Amish Quiltmaker's Unconventional Niece - Jennifer Beckstrand (Kensington - Nov 2022)

Series: Amish Quiltmaker (Book 3)
 
Mattie Zook always stands up for what’s right—which is why she’s been exiled from her Pennsylvania Dutch home to her Aunt Esther’s farm. Outraged at local discrimination against the Amish, she’s using her rumschpringe to run for town council. Esther can only hope that sensible local farmer Freeman Sensenig will help Mattie—and keep her from going too far. But Mattie is soon finding her new campaign manager all too appealing . . .
 
Freeman never thought that the standoffish, opinionated Mattie would care so much about others. Even more amazing, their differences are somehow making her campaign successful—and have him hoping for more of a future with her. But unexpected obstacles and a sudden romantic rival will put their growing closeness to the test—and give them only one chance to truly reconcile their hearts . . .
 
Fun book. Mattie Zook is a very unconventional Amish woman. She is headstrong, opinionated, vocal, and always ready to fight for what is right, even when it goes against her Amish upbringing. At home in Lancaster, she went so far as to sue a neighbor for dumping garbage on her family's land. In desperation, Mattie's father sends her to live with her Aunt Esther in Colorado.
 
But instead of learning her lesson, Mattie finds herself embroiled in another controversy. Furious at a local ordinance discriminating against the Amish community, Mattie decides to take advantage of her rumschpringe to run for town council. This decision does not sit well with her new community, but Mattie is determined.
 
Local farmer Freeman Sensenig is one of those who disapproves. He and Mattie clashed from the moment they met. Freeman is just as opinionated as Mattie and is vocal in his opposition. But something about her brings out his protective side, and he finds himself secretly serving as her campaign manager.
 
I enjoyed following the ins and outs of Mattie's campaign. Her opponent is an arrogant man who will do anything to win. Meanwhile, Mattie gets a crash course in politics with the help of a local Englisch woman. I loved seeing Mattie run a focused and clean campaign that appealed to those who were tired of the incumbent's antics. It isn't an easy campaign, as there are obstacles that she must overcome. A bit of trouble causes Mattie to rethink her decision, but in the end, the principal of the race wins out.
 
I liked the development of the relationship between Mattie and Freeman. They are both stubborn people, and because of that, many of their interactions are contentious. Freeman is vocal in his disapproval of Mattie's plan but also worries about her safety and feelings. Mattie is adamant that her feelings are not so fragile that she can't take whatever her opponent dishes out. It was amusing to see Freeman's confusion over why he is so concerned about Mattie - after all, he doesn't even like her! Meanwhile, Mattie isn't sure why she feels so much more confident when Freeman is nearby - all he wants is for her to withdraw. There comes the point when Freeman realizes his feelings and that he needs to support her to make her happy, while Mattie faces a decision of whether to quit or go on. I liked Freeman's "aha" moment and the sweet scene that resulted from it. The ending was terrific.
 
I enjoyed the variety of characters. Aunt Esther disapproves of Mattie's plan but can't stop her. However, she can try to distract her and gives it her level best. Fortunately, Mattie sees through the attempt and finds an interesting way around it. Caleb is Esther's seventeen-year-old brother-in-law and the tool she uses for distraction. Caleb is a typically awkward teenager who is no match for Mattie's determination. It isn't long before Mattie has him helping her despite his fear of discovery. Sarah and Sadie are Freeman's eighteen-year-old twin sisters who are firmly on Mattie's side. I loved their enthusiasm and involvement. Cathy is the older Englisch lady who is the moving force behind Mattie's campaign. She was quite an interesting character, as there were times when I wasn't sure what she would say next.

Eagle Mountain Cliffhanger - Cindi Myers (HI #2105 - Nov 2022)

Series: Eagle Mountain Search and Rescue (Book 1)
 
A fight for survival in the snow
While on the trail of a killer
 
Responding to the reports of a car accident, newcomer Deputy Jake Gwynn finds a murder scene instead. Search and rescue paramedic Hannah Richards tried to care for the likely suspect before he slipped away -- and now he's gone from injured man to serial killer on the loose. Jake hadn't planned to put down roots in this quiet little town, but his need to protect Hannah may be more than just professional…
 
Terrific start to the new series focusing on Eagle Mountain's Search and Rescue unit members. The book started with a rush and kept me hooked to the end. Hannah, an EMT with the SAR unit, was the first arrival at the scene of an accident. A white box van had gone over the edge of the road into a ravine. As she called down to let them know help was coming, she saw an injured man climbing up. But when she looked away to see a deputy arrive, the man disappeared. When the rescuers climbed down to the van, they discovered both remaining victims were dead - with one obviously murdered. They later found out the man she saw was an escaped serial killer.
 
Jake is new to the Eagle Mountain Sheriff's Department. He plans to get experience there before moving to a larger department. He has handled everything from speeders to stray animals, but a manhunt for a serial killer is new. I loved the scene of Jake trying to catch the stray dog. I was not surprised by what happened with the dog, though I laughed out loud at the scene in the jail. Also new is his interest in the pretty EMT.
 
The suspense of the story was fantastic. From the moment Cutler escaped, the race was on to catch him. The process is complicated by Cutler's military experience with extreme weather. I could feel the frustration of the sheriff's department as they always seemed to be a step behind him. The search hits particularly close to home when it becomes evident that Cutler has fixated on Hannah as his next victim. The intensity ramps up as Cutler taunts his pursuers by showing how close he can get without being caught, even causing an avalanche. As the threats against Hannah grow, Jake is determined to keep her safe. The final confrontation is a nail-biter involving weather, a hair-raising rescue, and a fight on the side of a cliff.
 
I enjoyed the development of the relationship between Jake and Hannah. Hannah was a little wary at first because she knew Jake didn't plan to stay in Eagle Mountain, and she had no interest in leaving. But they have a lot in common, and their attraction is undeniable. Besides spending time together and getting to know each other, they frequently work together at accident scenes. I loved that Jake was protective yet respectful of Hannah's capabilities. I liked seeing their feelings for each other deepen. Hannah dreamed of a future together but worried about what would happen if Jake got a job offer that would take him away. The ending is perfect and shows a bright future for them.
 
I loved the setting of a Search and Rescue unit in the Colorado mountains. Each member has a unique personality, and I look forward to learning more about them. The rescue situations portrayed in the book felt realistic and kept me interested in their actions. I also liked Hannah's father and found his backstory as a competitive climber intriguing. His willingness to help Jake at the end was critical to the successful resolution of the confrontation.

Colton's Secret Sabotage - Deborah Fletcher Mello (HRS #2191 - Aug 2022)

Series: Coltons of Colorado (Book 7)
 
He's undercover
She's under his skin
 
Detective Philip Rees is shocked by his new assignment: going undercover on a Western-themed reality TV show. Nonetheless, he's determined to complete his mission to take down a contestant suspected of leaking confidential information. To find the culprit who is sabotaging the competition, Philip gets close to producer Naomi Colton. As Philip and Naomi begin to trust one another with their secrets and hearts, will he manage to keep her safe, on and off the set?
 
Good blend of suspense and romance. Philip is looking forward to some time off after a tough undercover case when he gets pulled back to work. His covert talents are needed to stop someone suspected of leaking sensitive information. Philip soon finds himself working as a carpenter on a western-themed reality show. When one contestant gets hurt before filming the show, Philip is tagged to take his place. It quickly becomes evident that there is more going on behind the scenes than he expected. Not the least is his attraction to the show's producer, Naomi Colton.
 
Naomi is the youngest of the twelve Colton siblings and the one who seems to fight the hardest for her siblings' respect. After years of trying, Naomi finally got the coveted executive producer job she wanted. The bonus is that she can film her reality show on her brother and sister's ranch, giving her the rare opportunity to spend time with her family. It's not all sunshine and rainbows, though, thanks to personality conflicts and accidents. The last thing she needs is her inconvenient attraction to Philip.
 
The suspense of this book grabbed me from the start and kept me hooked to the last page. It starts with Philip's mission to watch Brad, the contestant suspected of selling secrets. He's working out the best way to do this when he first spots Naomi and is instantly fascinated and attracted to her. Naomi picks him to be on the show when one of the contestants is injured. Philip isn't sure how it will work out, but it puts him in a better position to watch Brad. On Philip's first night with the contestants, a fire destroys his and two other tents. While it is deemed accidental, his cop instincts are aroused by the details of the fire, and he decides to keep a watchful eye out. Over the next few days, there were several other suspicious "accidents." Philip is also kept busy trying to keep track of Brad's activities. When Naomi catches him out of bounds late one night, he's forced to take her into his confidence. It was evident that the accidents were likely an inside job, and there wasn't much question in my mind about who was responsible. Even so, the final confrontation was intense.
 
Philip's primary mission was to figure out what Brad was up to and how he would carry out his scheme. Brad was quickly disliked as he was rude, arrogant, and misogynistic. He alienated just about everyone on the set with his attitude. I had to laugh when he "blackmailed" Philip into helping him, which gave Philip an easy way to know Brad's plans. But when the final confrontation came, some unexpected changes put Philip and Naomi in danger. Complicating matters was a twist I didn't see coming but made a very intense situation even more so.
 
I enjoyed seeing the relationship develop between Philip and Naomi. Their connection and attraction were immediate, surprising both of them. Because of his undercover work, Philip has never looked for anything serious, but Naomi has him reexamining his priorities. Naomi avoids relationships because of her poor opinion of men, beginning with her father. Philip is all-in from the start, realizing that his feelings for Naomi are unlike anything he's felt before. I laughed out loud at some of his flirting and double entendres when he was with her and how it flustered her. Philip was also very protective of her, which showed when he confronted her assistant producer. There were some delightful scenes when he would find a way to be with her. Naomi didn't know what to do with her feelings for Philip. She was starting to care for him but couldn't see how anything could come of it. Both have a lot of self-reflection to do before they can make any decisions about the future but eventually find the solution that works for them.
 
I enjoyed the setting of this book. The reality show theme was intriguing and gave a wide range of characters. The various contestants and their stories were interesting, as were their reactions to the multiple challenges. Grace, the beauty queen, was a formidable contestant determined to show up the men. She was also quite aggressive in her pursuit of Philip, and it was amusing to see his attempts to keep his distance. I laughed out loud several times at the posturing among the men as they trash-talked each other, mostly in good fun. On the other side, we had various members of Naomi's family. She loves them all, but as the youngest, she suffers from a surfeit of unwanted advice. I felt her frustration over the apparent lack of respect they show for her work. There were fun scenes with Naomi and her sisters as they shared "girl time," and she talked about Philip. Her brother Jasper got some excellent page time between his issues with one of his (female) employees and the effect Naomi's problems are having on the ranch. I'm looking forward to his story.

Colton Countdown - Tara Taylor Quinn (HRS #2187 - July 2022)

Series: Coltons of Colorado (Book 6)
 
To see her kids again
She must trust one man
 
Widow Theresa Fitzgerald is frantic when her young twins are abducted by their doomsayer grandparents. Hardened army sergeant Ezra Colton vows to find the girls he'd unexpectedly bonded with while home on leave. Ezra's emotional investment and stealth skills give Theresa hope. But the closer they get -- to each other and the grandparents' trail -- the more dangerous the desperate search for her daughters becomes.
 
Terrific book that kept me hooked from start to finish. Ezra is home on thirty days' leave from the army and stops at the senior care center where his Aunt Alice lives. She is the one he went to as a kid/teen when his family life was too much for him to handle. Even though she no longer knows him, he still visits whenever possible. As the book opens, he remembers the good times with her and is saddened by her unresponsiveness. Then a dog bursts into the room and makes a beeline for her, followed by two little girls. Ezra, who has no experience with children, is enchanted by the two girls. He is also amazed to see his aunt respond to the dog. I loved watching the girls interact with Ezra. They are followed closely by their mother, Theresa.
 
Theresa lost her husband a year earlier and is coping with being a single parent. Her daughters, Neve and Claire, are the center of her life. She is dealing with a lot of stress because her in-laws, doomsayer conspiracy nuts, have filled the girls' heads with their fears. She's stopped allowing them to take the girls on outings, only allowing visits she supervises. However, she's become aware of them hanging around and fears they may try to kidnap the girls.
 
The early part of the book was filled with interactions between Ezra, Neve, Claire, and Theresa. I loved watching the two girls wrap Ezra around their little fingers and how he enjoyed every minute of it. For a man who believes that he is not a family man, Ezra has a fantastic rapport with them. At the same time, he is puzzled by his reaction to Theresa. The attraction he understands, but the closeness and feelings of protectiveness confuse him. He does his best to bury them because he will leave in a month, and he thinks she still grieves the loss of her husband. Theresa feels the same attraction but refuses to consider giving her heart to a man with a dangerous job. She's lost one husband and refuses to put herself and her daughters through that pain again.
 
The action soon picks up when Theresa's in-law's stalking picks up. Ezra sees her fear and uses the excuse of painting her house to keep an eye on things. But when the unthinkable happens, and the girls are taken, Ezra jumps into action. First, I loved that he immediately used his contacts with family and friends to get help in the search. Brother Dominic, the FBI agent, plays a crucial role in the search, both in feeding information to Ezra and trying to keep Ezra from going too far. Theresa refuses to be left behind and is by Ezra's side every step of the way. I loved the trust that she placed in him and her willingness to do whatever it took to save Neve and Claire. The intensity ramped up the closer they came, and I could feel their frustration at every dead end. The final confrontation was a nail-biter that had my heart pounding until it was over.
 
All that was left was for Theresa and Ezra to figure out they belonged together. Unfortunately, there is a shortage of communication that has each thinking the other doesn't care. Theresa must also decide if Ezra's job is the deal-breaker she's considered it for the entire book. At the same time, Ezra has slowly realized that what drove him to stay away from his family for so long no longer drives him. The emotional conversation between Ezra and Theresa at the end was heartwarming and promising. I look forward to seeing them in later books.
 
I can't finish this review without mentioning the adorable Neve and Claire. They are twins but have distinct personalities. Both fell hard for Ezra, and I had a lot of fun watching them vie for his attention. They are sweet girls with big hearts, and I loved how they visited the people at the senior center. I ached for them and the fears that their grandparents instilled in them. They are also smart for their age, as evidenced in their actions during their kidnapping. Ezra will have his hands full when they get older!

 

Stalking Colton's Family - Geri Krotow (HRS #2179 - May 2022)

Series: Coltons of Colorado (Book 4)
 
To protect her baby…
She must share her secret
 
A stalker's lie came between single mother Rachel Colton and the father of her child. Now the man she never forgot has moved to their small Colorado town, and Rachel must tell James Kiriakis about the six-month-old daughter he never knew existed. But in pursuit of James, a deadly criminal has trailed him to Blue Larkspur and won't let the fragile family have a moment's peace -- planning on only the most lethal of reunions.
 
Terrific book that sucked me in from the start and kept me hooked to the end. Rachel is the brand-new DA for the town of Blue Larkspur, Colorado. Over the last few months, she has met the challenge of balancing her work life with her life as a single mother. As the daughter of the corrupt judge, Ben Colton, Rachel feels the extra burden of ensuring that all her cases are as air-tight and transparent as possible. Like her eleven brothers and sisters, Rachel goes the extra mile to put distance between herself and her notorious father. On the personal side, she often thinks of baby Iris's father, a fellow lawyer she met at a conference. She never told him about the baby because she later found out he was engaged and didn't want to complicate his life.
 
James needs to leave Denver and lands a new job in Blue Larkspur. A woman he dated turned out to be a stalker, and nothing he has done has stopped her. He hopes that moving away will put him out of reach. An added incentive to taking the position in Blue Larkspur is the hope of reconnecting with Rachel, whom he has not forgotten.
 
I loved the first encounter between James and Rachel. Both were in a hurry and literally ran into each other, ending up on the floor. Rachel was shocked to see James, while he was thrilled to see her. When she learns James has moved to town, she knows she must tell him about Iris and makes arrangements to have dinner with him. But when their dinner is interrupted, her confession is put on hold. I could feel Rachel's nervousness as the time drew nearer. Her second attempt involved inviting James to her home, where James received the shock of his life. As they discuss the events that led up to this moment, they discover that outside forces kept them apart.
 
Determined to make up for lost time, James throws himself into fatherhood. I loved how he immediately stepped up and insisted on being part of Iris's life. There were some sweet scenes of the learning process, and I enjoyed the hints of vulnerability as James faced situations far outside his experience. Though wary at first, Rachel quickly realizes James's desire to be a real father to Iris. And as James and Rachel spend more time together, with and without Iris, the sparks between them continue to grow.
 
I enjoyed watching the relationship between James and Rachel develop. James is all-in, his initial attraction developing into stronger feelings as he gets to know Rachel. I especially enjoyed how some of their interactions seemed like scenes from a courtroom with their lawyerly language but very personal actions. As strange and dangerous events occur, his protective instincts are aroused, and he is determined to protect Rachel and Iris. He also worries that he may have brought danger to their doorstep. Rachel feels herself falling for James but tries to keep some distance between them. She has trust issues with men thanks to her father, and taking that last step proves very difficult. It takes nearly losing him forever for Rachel to let go of her fears and open herself up to risking her heart. The ending was terrific.
 
The suspense of the story was terrific. On the one hand, we have James's stalker issue. Though he hoped to have escaped it, we learn early in the book that his stalker has not given up. On the other hand, DA Rachel lives with the constant threat of retribution from the criminals she prosecutes. One case in particular links to her father and causes a great deal of stress for her and her family. As attacks on Rachel escalate, James is convinced that his stalker is behind them, while Rachel believes they are related to her current case. I loved James's protectiveness and determination to keep her safe. When the final confrontation came, I loved Rachel's cool head as she tried to talk the culprit out of their plans. James's fear for her safety was evident, and I loved how they worked together to protect Iris. I was glued to the pages until it was all over. Of course, while one problem was dealt with, the other continued to evade resolution. I can't wait to see how it progresses over the following books.
 
Another thing I enjoyed about this book was seeing more of Isadora (Isa) Colton, the widowed mother of the Colton siblings. I've been impressed with her strength as her story has unfolded. Since the first book in the series, it has been evident that the police chief, Theo, has a special place in his heart for Isa, though she seemed oblivious to it. I loved seeing Rachel turn Isa's advice not to let the past interfere with the future around on Isa herself. I look forward to seeing how that relationship progresses. 

 

The Spy Switch - Karen Whiddon (HRS #2188 - July 2022)

Her undercover husband is temporary
But her feelings are very real
 
Schoolteacher Jennifer Glass's ordinary life screeches to a halt when a criminal targets her. Moreover, she's mistaken for an identical twin she never knew existed! Now she's drawn to her sibling’s partner, ATF agent Micah Spokane. Micah needs Jennifer to play the part of his undercover wife to bust a gun-smuggling ring. He promises to protect her every step of the dangerous way, but they might not be able to resist the "fake" passion growing between them…
 
I enjoyed this book once I got past the fantasy that an experienced ATF agent would recruit a civilian for a vital undercover op just because she looks like the partner who has worked the situation with him for two years. A few other things made me roll my eyes, but I chalked them up to the fantasy and moved on.
 
Jennifer is an elementary school teacher who is out shopping when she's accosted by a man claiming to be a federal agent who tells her to "play along." Then a creepy guy starts talking to her like he knows her and her "partner." After the man, Igor, leaves, Micah explains that he's an undercover ATF agent and that Igor mistook her for his partner, Laney. Laney happens to be the twin sister Jennifer didn't know about because they were adopted separately. Jennifer is stunned to find out about Laney and wants to meet her, which Micah agrees to - IF Jennifer will fill in for Laney for a couple of weeks while they wrap up the operation.
 
I didn't much care for Micah's emotional blackmailing of Jennifer. He admits that Laney and his bosses would be furious with him for involving her, but he does it anyway. I understood they were at the point where any change could torpedo the entire investigation, but Jennifer has NO experience with undercover work. So many things could go wrong and mess it up and get them killed.
 
Leaving those quibbles behind, I went along for the ride. Thanks to some acting experience in college, Jennifer pulls off a credible Laney in her first outing. As the days go on, a bunch of twists and turns make the run-up to the finale extra complicated. Each change ramped up the tension that nearly leaped off the page. The two main villains, Igor and Carmen, were especially vile, and it was easy to root for their downfall. The final confrontation was intense and kept me hooked until it was done.
 
I enjoyed the development of Micah and Jennifer's relationship. The attraction between them is instant though they try to ignore it. They know they don't need the distraction with the stakes so high. Micah is surprised by his attraction to Jennifer because he feels nothing like it for Laney. Because they are together 24/7, they have the opportunity to get to know each other. The attraction between them grows, and so do the feelings that go with it. They struggle to keep them buried while working and long for a chance to see where they will go. I liked the ending, though I would like to have gotten more of the meeting between Jennifer and Laney.

Colton's Dangerous Reunion - Justine Davis (HRS #2175 - Apr 2022)

Series: Coltons of Colorado (Book 3)

Protecting children is his calling…
Now he must guard the woman who broke his heart
 
Social worker Gideon Colton has devoted his life to helping kids. His commitment to his work has eased some of the heartache from his breakup with Dr. Sophia Gray-Jones. Then a battered child brings the pediatrician back into his life. And as a vengeful father threatens Sophia, Gideon is determined to protect her. But hiding out together might just create tremendous danger to their hearts…and their lives!
 
Good second chance romance. The story opens as Gideon, a social worker, gets a call about an abused child in the hospital. How much he cares about the children he helps is immediately apparent as he rushes to the hospital. He didn't expect to find the woman who broke his heart sitting by Charlie's side. Sophia knew it was possible that Gideon would be the one called. He's the best at dealing with scared kids. How much would it hurt to come face-to-face with the biggest regret of her life?
 
Both Gideon and Sophia focus on Charlie while trying to suppress their reactions to each other. I liked that they didn't allow their personal history to affect their interactions with Charlie. Their efforts to calm the boy go well until his abusive father shows up. I loved seeing the soft-spoken Gideon turn into a superhero, getting between Rick and Charlie. His actions were swift and effective and a joy to watch. Unfortunately, Rick escapes from the security guard after vowing vengeance on Sophia. Despite their past, Gideon's protectiveness kicks in, and he escorts her home. A good thing he did, as they spotted the man lurking in the shadows around her house. Gideon insists that she can't stay there, so he takes her to his mother's home. There the stress of the night comes out in an unexpected and passionate encounter, leaving both wondering what's next.
 
I enjoyed watching the rekindling of the relationship between Gideon and Sophia. Both of them are wary of getting involved again. Gideon remembers the heartache he felt and is hesitant to take that risk again. But the more time they spend together, the harder it is to deny those feelings. Sophia never stopped loving Gideon and regretted the breakup as soon as it happened. Growing up with a perfectionist father and a detached mother, Sophia has spent her life trying to live up to expectations and constantly feeling that she comes up short. Those feelings bled over into her relationship with Gideon, and she broke up with him because she thought he could do better than her.
 
Sophia and Gideon spent a good share of the book inside their heads, constantly second-guessing their own and each other's actions and words. Many times, I wanted to shake them and tell them to talk to each other. With two years apart, I liked how Gideon realized how hard Sophia is on herself. The more he hears of her father's treatment, the more he tries to make her recognize the emotional abuse she experienced. Sophia thinks a lot about how much she regrets her actions but keeps that to herself for too long. She dreams of starting the relationship again but tells herself it is too late without saying anything to Gideon about it. I loved when she finally worked up the courage to talk to him and ached for her when he didn't react. Gideon's wariness was understandable, and it took him a few days and a conversation with his mom to let go of his fears. I loved their big moment at the end. I also loved their visit with Sophia's father and its well-deserved outcome.
 
The suspense was good. We get a good look at the abusive father and the results of his abuse early on. His appearance at the hospital and his attempt to get to Charlie show how dangerous he is. Gideon's protectiveness kicks in when he escapes custody and later turns up at Sophia's home. The tension builds as there are a couple of sightings, but Rick eludes capture. There is a terrific scene as Gideon, Sophia, and a local police detective confront someone who has been helping him. The final confrontation was a nail-biter, and I loved seeing how it worked out.

Undercover Colton - Addison Fox (HRS #2183 - June 2022)

Series: Coltons of Colorado (Book 5)

Some feelings can't be hidden and some can get you killed.
 
FBI agent Dominic Colton never mixes business with pleasure. Until he falls into bed with Samantha Evans, his prime suspect's daughter. With his cover blown and Sami justifiably angry, Dom is shocked that she's still willing to help. She even suggests the perfect ploy to bring her father to justice. But going undercover also brings Dom and Sami closer…which is far more dangerous.
 
Good book. Dom Colton is an FBI agent assigned to find out what Samantha Evans, daughter of Mike Evans, who is head of the Warlords Motorcycle Club, knows about her father's illegal activities. He's working on a construction site where she does the landscaping, and they met by "happy accident." The book opens with their dinner date and an inside look at their thoughts. Sami is very attracted to Dom and compares him favorably to other men she's dated. She appreciates how he treats her and feels like the center of his attention. On the other hand, Dom feels increasingly guilty about how he is deceiving her. He's just as attracted as she is, but she is part of his assignment and doing anything about it is a bad idea.
 
But good intentions fall by the wayside with a kiss that goes from sweet to scorching in a heartbeat. The resulting encounter was explosive and left both of them reeling from the depth of emotion it stirred up. Then, to complicate matters, Sami found his FBI badge and credentials. (I'm sorry - why the heck did Dom have his badge on an UNDERCOVER assignment? A stupid mistake from a supposedly experienced agent.) So, he confesses all, and Sami decides she wants to help Dom take her father down. She blames her dad for her mother's death and knows he's involved in some nasty stuff. She hadn't spoken to her dad in years, but coincidentally he had just called her, looking to reconnect. They decide that she'd drag Dom along as her boyfriend, which they then change to fiancé, as a way in for Dom.
 
You know that a fake engagement between two people that are so attracted to each other can only end one way. Still, I enjoyed watching the relationship between Dom and Sami develop. Dom felt protective toward Sami from the start, but those feelings are even stronger when she insists on getting involved. I liked seeing them get to know each other and discover that they had much in common, especially their criminal fathers. I ached for Sami, torn between her love for her father and her desire to help Dom stop him. I liked how he helped her deal with her feelings over that. Dom has spent years keeping a distance between himself and everyone else, including his family. His father's betrayal of the family hit him hard, and he does it to protect himself from feeling that way with anyone else. But the more time he spends with Sami, the more he finds her breaking down those walls. The feelings she stirs in him go against everything he believes about his future. When everything is over, both have emotional baggage to deal with before they can have a future together. I liked the epilogue and seeing that they take some additional time to get to know each other better.
 
The suspense is very good. Dom's FBI unit suspects that Mike Evans has reorganized his Warlords after his multi-year disappearance. Unfortunately, they haven't been able to get the proof they need. There is also some question about whether someone else is pulling the strings. The tension starts early as we see Dom dealing with Evans both as Sami's fiancé and a potential recruit to the Warlords. I liked his ability to show just the right mix of deference and strength. The intensity ramps up as he is initiated into the group and participates in one of their operations. We get a look at another player, a familiar face from earlier books, and his part in the goings-on. The final confrontation kept me glued to the pages until it was over.
 
This works well as a stand-alone, as Dom and Sami's romance gets its HEA, and Dom's FBI assignment is successfully completed. It works best as part of the series if the books are read in order. Some things happen in the early books that affect the events in this one. Plus, the end of this one leaves at least one dangling thread to lead into the next book.

Snowed In with a Colton - Lisa Childs (HRS #2171 - Mar 2022)

Series: Coltons of Colorado (Book 2)

He's the target
She's in the crosshairs
 
When organized crime threatens journalist Luca Rossi's life, he assumes a fake identity. Now he's “Luke Bishop,” keeping to himself at a dude ranch. With a snowstorm and threats to his life closing in, proprietor Aubrey Colton needs his help. Suddenly he's playing cowboy amid deadly conditions and fighting his feelings for her. But can Aubrey and Luca both survive their killer attraction…and the bull's-eye on their backs?
 
An action-packed book that kept me hooked from start to finish. Aubrey and her twin brother Jasper own Gemini Ranch, a guest ranch in Colorado. As the story opens, Aubrey is dealing with an ex-boyfriend, Warren, who won't accept that she's done with him. There is also a blizzard headed their way, and they have cattle to move in closer. Aubrey plans to call on some of her siblings to help when ranch guest Luke Bishop offers to help, claiming to have ranch hand experience. Aubrey, whose trust in men has been damaged by Warren, is wary of accepting his offer. Something about him rings warning bells in her head.
 
Luca Rossi, or Luke Bishop as he is known here, is an investigative journalist on the run from an Italian mob called the Camorra. After writing an exposé that sent most of the organization to jail, he's spent the last months running from the assassins sent after him. He just gets settled in a new place when they find him again. He hopes that by leaving Italy, they will have lost the trail. Even here, he keeps to himself and avoids the main lodge and groups of people. His only relief from growing boredom and restlessness is solitary rides around the countryside. When he hears Aubrey talk about moving the cattle, he immediately offers to help.
 
Aubrey's trust issues lead her to do something stupid, letting herself into his cabin when she thinks he's away. Instead, she sees something that rouses her suspicions more, just before Luke shows up from the shower. The sparks that fly between them are intense, Luke lays on the flirtatious Italian charm, and Aubrey finds herself agreeing to let him help. I loved watching them work together. The sparks are still there but take a backseat to their teamwork. The storm isn't their only danger; shots fired nearby make Luke think he's been found again, while Aubrey believes it's another rancher. When she expresses her concern to her FBI agent brother, Dominic, the results of his research ramp up his worry for her safety.
 
The intensity continues to build as further attacks on Luke occur over the next few days. The question is, who is behind them? Aubrey's ex wants her back and is none-too-happy at Luke's presence in her life. We also see that a hitman is on-site and has the determination and opportunity to carry out his mission. Meanwhile, Luke does his best to keep Aubrey safe while feeling guilty for putting her in danger.  The final confrontation with the hitman was a nail-biter but left Luke hoping that maybe it was all over. However, he's unaware of the arrival of a new player in the game, one he's just started to suspect. There's an interesting twist to that confrontation, though its result wasn't much of a surprise.
 
I enjoyed seeing the relationship develop between Luke and Aubrey. The chemistry was intense right from the start, but both tried to resist it. Luke didn't want to expose Aubrey to the danger that followed him but staying away from her seemed impossible. Aubrey's trust issues kept her wary of getting too close, but the attraction was hard to resist. I loved Luke's protectiveness. Not only did he want to keep her safe from the trouble that followed him, but he also stepped in when Warren was being a jerk. When they gave in to the heat that burned between them, they realized that they were in deeper than they expected. I ached for Aubrey's heartbreak after that last confrontation. I loved the ending and the surprise waiting for Aubrey.

Grizzly Creek Standoff - Cindi Myers (HI #2064 - Apr 2022)

Series: Eagle Mountain: Search for Suspects (Book 4)

When her daughter's threatened…she fights back.
 
When police deputy Ronin Doyle happens upon stunning Courtney Baker, he can't shake the feeling that something's not right. And as the lawman's engulfed by an investigation that rocks their serene community, more and more he's convinced that Courtney's boyfriend has swept her -- and her beloved daughter -- into something sinister. If Ronin's hunch is right, he must help Courtney before it's too late for them all…
 
Terrific conclusion to the series. This is the story of Courtney Baker, Lauren Baker's sister-in-law, and the subject of a missing person search in the first book of the series (Disappearance at Dakota Ridge). She ran off with Trey Allerton, a man who claimed to be friends with her late husband, and talked about building a ranch to help disadvantaged kids. Over the first three books of the series, we saw increasingly suspicious activity from Trey and worrisome events involving Courtney.
 
As this book starts, Courtney realizes that Trey is not the man she thinks he is. She attempts an escape but is caught by Trey. He threatens to harm her daughter Ashlyn if she tries to leave him again. Right after he makes these threats, Deputy Ronin Doyle stops to check on her because the situation looks suspicious. With Trey's threats fresh in her mind, Courtney tells him everything is fine. Ronin doesn't buy it, but there's nothing he can do right now.
 
I ached for Courtney, who came so close to breaking free from Trey, only to find her life become even more difficult. But she now desires to try again, and when Trey slaps Ashlyn, she has the motivation to do so. Her desire to learn some of the things he's kept hidden from her leads her to discover some gold bars he's hidden away, and she takes a few for later use. When he finds the hidden bars and the papers she concealed, Trey drags them off and locks them in an abandoned mine. She's terrified they'll die there until help comes from an unexpected source.
 
I enjoyed the development of the relationship between Courtney and Ronin. Ronin couldn't forget Courtney even though she was "taken." His instinct that something was off also kept her on his mind and caused him to stop by her trailer several times. Courtney was drawn by his kindness and the compassion she saw in his eyes. She kicked herself after each visit for not having the courage to ask for help, but her fear was too great. I loved when Ronin took her the photography book and its effect on her. Their feelings had a greater chance to grow after the rescue at the mine allowed them to spend more time together. I loved the realism at the end, where Courtney and Ronin make an intelligent decision about their relationship.
 
The suspense of the story was complex, with several layers. First was the situation with Courtney and the increasingly abusive Trey. I was invested in seeing how she was going to escape. The second was the ongoing question of the youth ranch and whether it was real or a scam. All indications during the series said "scam," but there were a few instances where it seemed legit. Then there was the addition of a detective from a nearby town who is looking for youth-related drug activity. The elusive Bart Smith remains a person of interest in that search. Detective Fletcher also seems inordinately interested in Trey. The storylines come together in an intense confrontation that had me glued to the pages until it was all over.

Missing at Full Moon Mine - Cindi Myers (HI #2058 - Mar 2022)

Series: Eagle Mountain: Search for Suspects (Book 3)

The mountains may hold the answers
But it's a dangerous climb.
 
Deputy Wes Landry knows he shouldn't get emotionally involved with his assignments. But a missing person case has drawn him strongly to Rebecca Whitlow. Desperate to find her nephew, she's worried the rock climber has gotten lost…or worse. Wes's investigation has him convinced Rebecca is right. Something dangerous is happening at Full Moon Mine -- and they're about to get caught in the thick of it.
 
Terrific book. The suspense starts immediately, as Rebecca arrives at the sheriff's office to report that her nephew is missing. Cash is a nineteen-year-old young man who decided to put his energies toward a career in climbing after dealing with addiction for several years. To do that, he moved from California to Eagle Mountain to live with his aunt. When he doesn't come home one night and doesn't answer texts or calls, she worries that something happened to him. Deputy Wes Landry takes her report.
 
I loved that Wes took Rebecca's fears seriously and didn't write off Cash as an irresponsible teen. He follows up on the information she gave him and what he learns leads him to believe she is correct. I also liked how he included Rebecca in his investigation, realizing that Cash's friends are more likely to talk to her than "the law." Wes's willingness to work with her makes it easier for her to trust him.
 
The story immediately sucked me in. The more that Wes and Rebecca learned, the more worried they became about Cash and his safety. None of his climbing friends have seen or heard from him. Who is the angry, threatening man looking for him, and why was he in disguise? Who is the mysterious rancher named Bart Smith, and why is he so secretive? Why is Trey Allerton so interested in Cash's disappearance? And has Mr. Kramer, the paranoid miner at Full Moon Mine, seen Cash? The tension ramps up when Wes and Rebecca, continuing their boots-on-the-ground search for Cash, come under fire. An unexpected encounter answers some of their questions but opens up more. I was on the edge of my seat during this confrontation, wondering who was behind it and how they would get out of it. I wasn't too surprised by the shooter's identity, but there were still some unanswered questions.
 
I enjoyed the development of the relationship between Wes and Rebecca. The sparks between them were evident from the start, but Wes hesitated to get involved with someone linked to his investigation. He'd done that once before, and it didn't turn out well. I liked seeing them get to know each other while their attraction grew stronger. The amount of time they spent together, combined with its intensity, accelerated the pace of their involvement. I loved the ending and seeing their plans for the future.
 
The series arc of Trey Allerton and his proposed youth ranch continued to develop. His apparent use of Courtney's daughter Ashlyn to control Courtney is disturbing, as is the way he takes her along on his "business" trips. His lack of visible progress on the project is suspicious, and many people wonder what kind of con he is running. Trey's interest in Cash's disappearance and his unpleasant insinuations about Cash and his whereabouts seems especially suspicious. I can't wait for the next book to see what will happen.

Conspiracy in the Rockies - Cindi Myers (HI #2050 - Feb 2022)

Series: Eagle Mountain: Search for Suspects (Book 2)

Her father's death has rocked their small Colorado town
And she's convinced it's connected to a larger conspiracy…
 
The grisly death of a prominent rancher stuns a Colorado community and plunges Deputy Chris Delray into a murder investigation. Willow Russell, the victim's fiery daughter, is determined to help him catch the killer. To keep her close -- and safe -- Chris agrees to work together to discover her father's enemies. But when Willow becomes a target, Chris suspects her conspiracy theory might be right -- and larger than they ever imagined...
 
Terrific book. The suspense started quickly with discovering Sam Russell's body in an irrigation ditch. Deputy Chris Delray is in charge of water rights enforcement, including the ditches, and is called in on the case. As he checks out the crime scene, Sam's daughter Willow arrives, looking for her dad. Her shock at his death is evident, as is her determination to bring whoever is responsible to justice.
 
Though initially considered a possible suspect, it soon becomes apparent to Chris that Willow is innocent. I loved seeing them team up to find the killer. Though Sam was well-liked and respected, he did have a few contentious run-ins with people. The question is, did any of those encounters lead to murder? Then there was the question of who would benefit from Sam's death? As far as Willow knows, she is Sam's only heir, and she didn't kill him. She gets an unpleasant surprise when Sam's ex-wife and her son show up, claiming to have a newer will leaving Emmett half the ranch. Complicating things even more, Trey Allerton claims that with Sam's death, the land he's leasing drops to a fee of one dollar per year. Finishing off the list is ranch hand Von King, a surly ex-con who gives Willow the creeps. These people have the means and motivation to kill Sam, and it's up to Chris and Willow to figure it out.
 
The developing relationship between Willow and Chris blended well with the story's suspense. The more time they spent together searching for clues, the closer they grew. I liked how Chris appreciated Willow's intelligence and strength as she dealt with the complications caused by Sam's death. Willow prides herself on that independence and also appreciates Chris's protectiveness as strange things happen on the ranch. They also didn't shy away from their growing attraction, which only emphasized their deepening feelings for each other.
 
The intensity increased as Chris and Willow closed in on the killer's identity. I was glued to the pages during the final confrontation as they faced the killer. I ached for Willow as she learned why her father lost his life. It looked like the killer had the upper hand for a while, and I wasn't sure how they'd get out of it. I loved how it worked out.
 
The epilogue was terrific as all of the loose ends got tied up. I liked Willow's decision about the ranch and how it made her feel. I could feel Chris's worry as he wondered about her plans and what it would mean for them. I loved how she answered his question, and his reaction was fantastic. I look forward to seeing more of them in later books.
 
I always enjoy seeing characters from previous books show up as secondaries. It's an easy way to catch up on what's happening with them after being invested in their stories. There is some mention of the ongoing story arc of Trey Allerton, Courtney Baker, and the youth ranch Trey is supposedly building. He's still too slick to be trusted, and his hold on Courtney is disturbing. I look forward to seeing how that storyline works out.

Colton's Pursuit of Justice - Marie Ferrarella (HRS #2167 - Feb 2022)

Series: Coltons of Colorado (Book 1)

Determined to redeem the Coltons' reputation
He'll help with even the unlikeliest case…
 
His family name is being dragged through the mud, but Caleb Colton is about righting wrongs. So when he believes that activist Nadine Sutherland's father has been duped by a shady oil company, Caleb vows to help her -- and protect her. Someone doesn't want Nadine poking into the deal, and the threats are escalating. But as Caleb works overtime with passionate Nadine, guarding his heart gets harder and harder…and so does staying alive!
 
Good start to the new Coltons of Colorado series. Caleb Colton is the oldest of Ben Colton's twelve children. Ben was a respected judge until he was caught taking kickbacks from private jails and juvenile detention centers for sending many innocent people to those facilities. He died in a car accident before he could be tried. In the twenty years since then, Caleb and his twin sister Morgan became lawyers and set about clearing the family name. After starting their own law firm and The Truth Foundation, they set about righting their father's wrongs.
 
Caleb's workaholic ways in focusing on his mission cost him his marriage though he remained friends with his ex-wife. When she called him and asked for his help for her cousin Nadine he was happy to help. Nadine is an activist, a talented jewelry maker, and a concerned daughter. Her father recently signed away the fracking rights on his property, and she suspects the oil company took advantage of his diminishing mental capabilities. Shortly after Nadine began asking questions, she received threatening phone calls. While she's not convinced she's in any danger, she does want Caleb's help in getting her father's land back.
 
Caleb is with Nadine when she receives one of those calls and thinks she is in more danger than she will admit. He gets a good dose of her argumentative nature when she fights against every step he wants to take to protect her. While her argumentativeness amuses him, it also frustrates him that her stubborn independence won't allow her to see when she needs help. Underneath the antagonism are undeniable sparks of attraction. After his divorce, Caleb gave up any idea of having a family of his own, but Nadine made him rethink his stance. Nadine never thought she'd fall for a lawyer, but his work shows her the good man he is at heart. I loved how she got involved in helping Caleb with the cases he's working on, showing him the possibilities for a life-long partnership. He just needs to get past the threats against her and his own fears. But it took nearly losing her to get him to that point. I loved the ending and seeing the changes in Caleb and his view of the future.
 
The suspense was terrific. It started quickly with the threats against Nadine and Caleb's determination to protect her. As they delved into the land grab details, the threats escalated. I was a little irritated at Nadine and the risks she took, capped by her headlong rush to her father's house at the end. I was glued to the pages as I wondered how she and her dad would escape their danger. The resolution of the case was satisfying, though I would have liked a bit of the oil company's reaction.
 
There is also a secondary story involving one of Ben Colton's victims. We get some progress on that case, but no resolution. This storyline may run through some, if not all, of the books in the series.

Code Name: Virgo - Janie Crouch (Calamitte Jane Publishing - Jan 2022)

Series: Zodiac Tactica;: Rescue Unit (Book 2)

My code name is Virgo. The stars say I’m practical, honest, stubborn as hell.
 
Guilty as charged.
 
Zodiac Tactical is the company that gave me a second chance. We guard, protect, rescue...eliminate the threat when nobody else can. And as a former SEAL, I’m good at those things. Good with weapons, good with missions.
 
But with people...not so good.
 
So when a gruesome enemy takes Bronwyn Rourke, one of Zodiac’s newest young recruits—with blue eyes that take up nearly her whole damn face—I shouldn’t take it personally. Shouldn’t allow her to consume my every thought and become my only mission.
 
They took her because they thought she was alone. Easy prey. That no one would fight for her.
 
They were wrong.
 
My code name is Virgo. And I will grind my enemy to dust to bring her home.
 
Yet another of the author's books that had me pulling an all-nighter. I really must learn to start these books earlier in the day. I know this, but somehow it doesn't stop me from reading as soon as possible. This is the second book in the Zodiac Tactical series, and much of it takes place concurrently with Code Name: Aries but from a different perspective. There are some overlapping scenes, but not many, and those don't feel repetitive.
 
The story starts with Sarge's first encounter with Bronwyn. He's a SEAL whose team just finished a mission and is on leave in Prague (terrific city - the descriptions took me back to my visits there). He spots Bronwyn, a talented pickpocket, as she works the square. He doesn't interfere until later when he rescues her from a disturbing situation. I loved Sarge's protectiveness and honorable nature, something Bronwyn had no experience with. The scene in his hotel room was both heartwarming and heartbreaking. I loved the connection between them and how important that connection became. I ached for Bronwyn when something she said after leaving caused him harm and for Sarge, who believed she'd betrayed him. Despite the circumstances, neither one forgot the other.
 
Five years later (current day), Sarge is back in Prague and looking for Bronwyn. Nothing much has changed, but now Sarge works for Zodiac Tactical. This time when he encounters Bronwyn, he offers her the means to escape her current situation by recruiting her for Zodiac. When she shows up at their Paris location, he keeps a watchful but distant eye on her. When we see Bronwyn again, she is in the middle of a mission. I loved seeing her pride in her work, and how she overcame the temptation she felt at a crucial moment. Everything looks good as Bronwyn successfully completes her mission. But things go downhill fast when she arrives back at her hotel room and is drugged and taken.
 
When Sarge finds out that Bronwyn is missing, his protectiveness goes into overdrive. Hw leaves no stone unturned in his search for her. Even when others believe she left on her own, he doesn't give up. And when video shows up of Bronwyn participating in robberies and other illegal behavior, Sarge is the only one who believes that something is wrong. I loved his determination to find her and his confidence in her when he does. In the segments done from Bronwyn's point of view, we witness the devastating torture she experiences at the hands of Mosaic and the excruciatingly painful methods of mind control they use. I couldn't help but be amazed at her strength of will as she fought against the darkness. I loved how her connection with Sarge gave her the strength to endure and survive. Her mental conversations with him were often the only thing that kept her from going over the edge.
 
I ached for Sarge on those occasions he caught up with Bronwyn. He worked so hard to stop her without hurting her, but because of the brainwashing, Bronwyn didn't hold back, though she could never bring herself to kill him. The parallels and overlaps with Ian and Wavy's story helped build my anticipation for some of the things I knew were coming. I loved it when Sarge whisked Bronwyn away to the ranch to heal and recover. His patience and care were terrific. I hurt for Bronwyn, who believed that she was broken, no matter how often Sarge tried to tell her how amazing she was. The back and forth as various groups fought for possession of Bronwyn made me ache for everything she experienced.
 
I loved how Bronwyn's time with Jenna while Sarge was away allowed Bronwyn to push her brain for memories that Sarge held her back from. Bronwyn's determination to unlock the secrets shows how strong she is. Her horror at what she learned was tempered by knowing that she has information vital to stopping Mosaic.  I loved her plan, and though Sarge hated it, he had to admit it could work. I was glued to the pages (and wide awake at 5 am!) as they carried it out. Of course, there's frequently a monkey wrench thrown into the works during the process, and this was no exception. I loved watching Bronwyn face off against the one responsible for her troubles. Justice was served in the end.
 
During their time on the ranch, Bronwyn and Sarge had the chance to get to know each other. Because of their age difference, Sarge was cautious about how he treated her. It took a while for him to admit his feelings for her, though Bronwyn knew hers. I could feel her frustration at times as he kept that bit of distance between them. I loved when she finally broke through his control, and they experienced what was meant to be. The epilogue was fantastic.
 
I can't wait for the next Zodiac book, as well as the Resting Warrior Ranch series.