Waiting on Wednesday

Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly event, that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.

This week's pre-publication "can't-wait-to-read" selection is:

Did You Miss Me? [Mass Market Paperback]

Product Description


Baltimore prosecutor Daphne Montgomery pulled herself out of a damaged past to build a solid life for herself and her son. But after she helps to convict a killer, her confidence is shattered once again by the news that her son has been kidnapped.
Daphne believes it’s connected to the recent high-profile trial, and at first FBI special agent Joseph Carter agrees. But together they find the reality to be even more troubling, and it runs deeper than Daphne fears. With her son’s life in jeopardy, she must unlock a dreadful secret about her past—and confront a truth that will change everything for those closest to her. And, if she survives, threaten the lives of everyone she loves.

Killing Time (One-Eyed Jacks) [Mass Market Paperback]

I've finished "Killing Time" the 1st book in her new One-Eyed Jacks series by Cindy Gerard.

Product Description

“We can do this easy,” she whispered close to his ear as he groaned in agony, “or it can go real hard on you.”

Well, of course he wasn’t going to go easy.

New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Cindy Gerard plunges readers into the heart of a seductive contest of wills between a hard-living hero and a beautiful rogue operative who is on a mission to dig up the secrets of his past. Tension sizzles in this pulse-pounding first adventure in Gerard’s action-packed new series as Eva Salinas lures Mike Brown from the sultry streets of Lima, Peru, to the desolate Idaho wilderness on the hunt for the cold-blooded traitor behind a fatal military operation that haunts them both.

About the Author

Cindy Gerard has won the RITA Award for Best Romantic Suspense novel. She is the author of the New York Times and USA TODAY bestselling Black Ops. Inc, series, the bestselling Bodyguards series, and more than thirty contemporary romance novels. She lives in the Midwest with her husband.

Product Details
Mass Market Paperback: 416 pages
Publisher: Pocket Books (January 22, 2013)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1451606834
ISBN-13: 978-1451606836

My Review:

Eight years ago Mike Brown was discharged from the military when an operation named "Slam Dunk" failed and most of his teammates were killed. Mike has been drowning his sorrows by getting drunk to forgot his guilt and shame. One night he gets the drop by a sexy woman who drugs and handcuffs him to a bed.

Eva Salinas lost her husband Ramon on this mission eight years ago.  Mike Brown was the fall guy and was discharged.  A file mysteriously appeared on her desk containing mission discrepancies.  She is determined to find out what happened that day and heads down south to confront Mike to get some answers.

They decide to team up and during their investigation they find out that someone is determined to make sure what happened in Afghanistan stays hidden.  They go to great lengths to make sure that happens (ex: sending an assassin after Eva and Mike).  Now Eva and Mike are on the run and he needs some help from some old friends.

It was great to see some old friends from Black Ops Inc. (Gabe Jones and Joe Green) helping in the investigation and appearing in the story.

The action was very nail biting, tense and high octave action with a hot and sizzling romance.  

4/5

New Releases 2013 (Jan 29)

The Vision [Mass Market Paperback]

Can you afford to believe everything you see? Can you afford not to?

When Deep Down Salvage begins the hunt for the Marie Josephine off Key West, it seems like any other dive — until Genevieve Wallace sees the vision of a dead woman in the water.

A dead woman who opens her eyes and looks directly at her.

Terrified and confused, Gen is haunted by the memory. But no one, including her diving partner Thor Thompson, believes she saw what she knows she saw. Then a dead woman washes up on shore, and everyone assumes this is Genevieve's "vision." Genevieve knows better. This dead woman is definitely not the ghost she encountered but another victim of the same brutal killer.

Sensing that the threat of death is coming closer, she and Thor are forced to acknowledge that some things can't be explained but simply are. Somehow they have to link a violent past with a present - day mystery because if they don't, the power of death will possess them, too.

The Seventh Victim [Mass Market Paperback]

It's been seven years since the Seattle Strangler terrorized the city. His victims were all young, pretty, their lifeless bodies found wrapped in a home-sewn white dress. But there was one who miraculously escaped death, just before the Strangler disappeared.  Lara Church has only hazy memories of her long-ago attack.

What she does have is a home in Austin, a job, and a chance at a normal life at last. Then Texas Ranger James Beck arrives on her doorstep with shattering news: The Strangler is back. And this time, he's in Austin.He's always craved her, even as he killed the others. For so long he's been waiting to unleash the beast within. And this time, he'll prove he holds her life in his hands - right before he ends it forever.

Shadowkiller [Mass Market Paperback]

From the New York Times bestselling author comes a novel of suspense so terrifying it may make you afraid of the dark . . .

Allison Taylor MacKenna feels as though she's awakened at last from a ten-year-long nightmare. But her darkest hour has yet to come . . .

Nestled in the warm, domestic cocoon of loving husband and family, Allison finally feels safe — unaware that a stranger's brutal murder on a Caribbean island is the first step in an intricate plan to destroy everything in her life.

For seasoned NYPD Detective Rocky Manzillo, the signs are clear that something terrible has emerged from the shadows: a murder victim left without a face and a faded photograph that yields a startling connection.

Now, as Allison's murky memories of a troubled childhood creep back to light, a cunning predator who shares her history prepares to enact a horrifying retribution — and won't stop killing until Allison faces a shocking truth . . . and pays the ultimate price.

It's Monday! What Are You Reading? (Jan 28)

What Are You Reading is a weekly Monday Meme that is hosted by Sheila from One Persons Journey: http://bookjourney.wordpress.com

Post the books you read last week, book currently being read and books you plan on finishing this week.

Last week I read:

1.  Private Berlin - James Patterson
2.  The Presence - Heather Graham

I’m currently reading:

1.  Killing Time - Cindy Gerard
2.  Whispers - Lisa Jackson

Here's the link:

http://bookjourney.wordpress.com/2013/01/27/its-monday-what-are-you-reading-173 

The Presence [Hardcover]

I've finished "The Presence" by Heather Graham.

Product Description

The ultimate moneymaking plan — buy the ancient, run-down Scottish castle and turn it into a tourist destination. Toni Fraser and her friends will put on reenactments combining fact and fiction, local history, murder and an imaginary laird named Bruce MacNiall.

Just as someone arrives, claiming to actually be Laird MacNiall — a tall, dark, formidable Scot somehow familiar to Toni — the bodies of young women are found, dumped and forgotten in the nearby town.

But even stranger, how is it possible this laird exists? Toni invented Bruce MacNiall for the performance yet sinister, lifelike dreams suggest he's connected to the recent deaths. Bruce claims he wants to help catch the murderer. But even if she wants to, can Toni trust him when her visions seem to be coming from within the very eyes of the killer himself?

Product Details
Mass Market Paperback: 432 pages
Publisher: Mira; Reprint edition (December 28, 2010)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0778329283
ISBN-13: 978-0778329282

My Review:

Toni Fraser and her five best friends (married couple Gina and Ryan, partners Kevin and David and her Scottish cousin Thayer) rent an ancient run-down Scottish castle that belongs to Bruce MacNiall to re-enact events that combine fact and fiction, local history, murder and a made up laird named Laird MacNiall.

Then Bruce MacNiall arrives home to find his castle has been over-run by Americans.  He is angry and so is the group for being taken.  Bruce allays their fears by allowing them to run their tours for six months to help make up for their losses.

Meanwhile someone is killing and depositing prostitutes body in Tillingham forest which is on the edge of MacNiall's castle.  Bruce found the first body and Eban who takes care of the horses and the grounds found the second body.  Toni finds another body which everyone believes is Annie O'Hara the third girl reported to be missing.  Evidence collected proves it's the body of Annalise MacNiall Bruce's late wife.  Annalise is believed to have disappeared from this castle history but people thought she was strangled by the Laird because he believed she was cheating on him.  The tattered cloth found around her neck bears the mark belonging to Grayson Davis, the traitor to the highland people.

When Bruce returned to the castle he clashed with Toni (she was being witch to him and was always angry/yelling at him).  Gee what was her problem?

Also I didn't like how she jumped Bruce when she had a nightmare she saw him at the end of her blood with a bloody sword dripping with blood looking down at her.  She wants to feel alive and this is the only reason when they fall in bed.

3/5

In the the Mail Saturday 2013 (Jan 26)

In the Mail Saturday is hosted every Saturday at Mystery Thrillers and Romantic Suspense Reviews.

I received these in the mail this week.

For Review:

Killing Time (One-Eyed Jacks) [Mass Market Paperback]

Product Description

“We can do this easy,” she whispered close to his ear as he groaned in agony, “or it can go real hard on you.”

Well, of course he wasn’t going to go easy.

New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Cindy Gerard plunges readers into the heart of a seductive contest of wills between a hard-living hero and a beautiful rogue operative who is on a mission to dig up the secrets of his past. Tension sizzles in this pulse-pounding first adventure in Gerard’s action-packed new series as Eva Salinas lures Mike Brown from the sultry streets of Lima, Peru, to the desolate Idaho wilderness on the hunt for the cold-blooded traitor behind a fatal military operation that haunts them both.

Acadian Waltz [Paperback]

Product Description

At thirty, Nora Kehoe is feeling pressured to settle down. On a blind date, Nora unexpectedly ends up in the emergency room where she meets Dr. John Blessing. She hopes the pragmatic Dr. Blessing can make her life complete. Then, a passionate encounter with a childhood friend changes everything. The charismatic Jean Marc Gaspard manages the family business, Gaspard Fisheries. But rumors abound that Jean Marc is running more than seafood through the waters around Manchac Louisiana. When a family crisis sends Nora to Manchac, she is thrown headlong into the dangerous world of smugglers and swindlers. And as Jean Marc tries to protect Nora from his past, he realizes he may lose her because of it. The dark bayou waters run deep with secrets in Louisiana, and every Cajun knows how to dance the fine line between the right and wrong side of the law. But for strangers, learning the steps to staying alive in the swamps can be tricky. Life, and love, will be dependent on how well one can master the … Acadian Waltz

Waiting on Wednesday

Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly event, that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.

This week's pre-publication "can't-wait-to-read" selection are:

The Vision [Mass Market Paperback]

Can you afford to believe everything you see? Can you afford not to?

When Deep Down Salvage begins the hunt for the Marie Josephine off Key West, it seems like any other dive — until Genevieve Wallace sees the vision of a dead woman in the water.

A dead woman who opens her eyes and looks directly at her.

Terrified and confused, Gen is haunted by the memory. But no one, including her diving partner Thor Thompson, believes she saw what she knows she saw. Then a dead woman washes up on shore, and everyone assumes this is Genevieve's "vision." Genevieve knows better. This dead woman is definitely not the ghost she encountered but another victim of the same brutal killer.

Sensing that the threat of death is coming closer, she and Thor are forced to acknowledge that some things can't be explained but simply are. Somehow they have to link a violent past with a present - day mystery because if they don't, the power of death will possess them, too.

The Seventh Victim [Mass Market Paperback]

It's been seven years since the Seattle Strangler terrorized the city. His victims were all young, pretty, their lifeless bodies found wrapped in a home-sewn white dress. But there was one who miraculously escaped death, just before the Strangler disappeared.  Lara Church has only hazy memories of her long-ago attack.

What she does have is a home in Austin, a job, and a chance at a normal life at last. Then Texas Ranger James Beck arrives on her doorstep with shattering news: The Strangler is back. And this time, he's in Austin.He's always craved her, even as he killed the others. For so long he's been waiting to unleash the beast within. And this time, he'll prove he holds her life in his hands - right before he ends it forever.

Shadowkiller [Mass Market Paperback]

From the New York Times bestselling author comes a novel of suspense so terrifying it may make you afraid of the dark . . .

Allison Taylor MacKenna feels as though she's awakened at last from a ten-year-long nightmare. But her darkest hour has yet to come . . .

Nestled in the warm, domestic cocoon of loving husband and family, Allison finally feels safe — unaware that a stranger's brutal murder on a Caribbean island is the first step in an intricate plan to destroy everything in her life.

For seasoned NYPD Detective Rocky Manzillo, the signs are clear that something terrible has emerged from the shadows: a murder victim left without a face and a faded photograph that yields a startling connection.

Now, as Allison's murky memories of a troubled childhood creep back to light, a cunning predator who shares her history prepares to enact a horrifying retribution — and won't stop killing until Allison faces a shocking truth . . . and pays the ultimate price.

Private Berlin [Hardcover]

I've finished "Private Berlin" the book in his Private series by James Patterson.

Product Description

Private Berlin has the extraordinary pace and international sophistication that has powered The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo and Patterson's #1 bestseller The Postcard Killers.

IN EUROPE'S MOST DANGEROUS CITY

Chris Schneider is a superstar agent at Private Berlin, Germany headquarters for the world's most powerful investigation firm. He keeps his methods secret as he tackles Private's most high-profile cases - and when Chris suddenly disappears, he becomes Private Berlin's most dangerous investigation yet.

AN INVESTIGATOR IS SEARCHING

Mattie Engel is another top agent at Private Berlin, gorgeous and ruthlessly determined - and she's also Chris's ex. Mattie throws herself headfirst into finding Chris, following leads to the three people Chris was investigating when he vanished: a billionaire suspected of cheating on his wife, a soccer star accused of throwing games, and a nightclub owner with ties to the Russian mob. Any one of them would surely want Chris gone - and one of them is evil enough to want him dead.

AND SHE'S AFTER MORE THAN THE TRUTH

Mattie's chase takes her into Berlin's most guarded, hidden, and treacherous places, revealing secrets from Chris's past that she'd never dreamed of in the time they were lovers. On the brink of a terrifying discovery, Mattie holds on to her belief in Chris - in the face of a horror that could force all of Europe to the edge of destruction and chaos.

About the Author

James Patterson has had more New York Times bestsellers than any other writer, ever, according to Guinness World Records. Since his first novel won the Edgar Award in 1977 James Patterson's books have sold more than 240 million copies. He is the author of the Alex Cross novels, the most popular detective series of the past twenty-five years, including Kiss the Girls and Along Came a Spider. Mr. Patterson also writes the bestselling Women's Murder Club novels, set in San Francisco, and the top-selling New York detective series of all time, featuring Detective Michael Bennett. He writes full-time and lives in Florida with his family.

Product Details
Hardcover: 448 pages
Publisher: Little, Brown and Company (January 21, 2013)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0316211176
ISBN-13: 978-0316211178

My Review:



4/5

New Releases 2013 (Jan 22)

Suspect [Hardcover]

The explosive new masterpiece of suspense from the #1 New York Times – bestselling author.

LAPD cop Scott James is not doing so well. Eight months ago, a shocking nighttime assault by unidentified men killed his partner Stephanie, nearly killed him, and left him enraged, ashamed, and ready to explode. He is unfit for duty — until he meets his new partner.

Maggie is not doing so well, either. A German shepherd who survived three tours in Iraq and Afghanistan sniffing explosives before losing her handler to an IED, her PTSD is as bad as Scott’s.

They are each other’s last chance. Shunned and shunted to the side, they set out to investigate the one case that no one wants them to touch: the identity of the men who murdered Stephanie. What they begin to find is nothing like what Scott has been told, and the journey will take them both through the darkest moments of their own personal hells. Whether they will make it out again, no one can say.

Killing Time (One-Eyed Jacks) [Mass Market Paperback]

“We can do this easy,” she whispered close to his ear as he groaned in agony, “or it can go real hard on you.”

Well, of course he wasn’t going to go easy.

New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Cindy Gerard plunges readers into the heart of a seductive contest of wills between a hard-living hero and a beautiful rogue operative who is on a mission to dig up the secrets of his past. Tension sizzles in this pulse-pounding first adventure in Gerard’s action-packed new series as Eva Salinas lures Mike Brown from the sultry streets of Lima, Peru, to the desolate Idaho wilderness on the hunt for the cold-blooded traitor behind a fatal military operation that haunts them both.

New Release 2013 (Jan 21)

Private Berlin [Hardcover]

IN EUROPE'S MOST DANGEROUS CITY

Chris Schneider is a superstar agent at Private Berlin, Germany headquarters for the world's most powerful investigation firm. He keeps his methods secret as he tackles Private's most high-profile cases-and when Chris suddenly disappears, he becomes Private Berlin's most dangerous investigation yet.

AN INVESTIGATOR IS SEARCHING

Mattie Engel is another top agent at Private Berlin, gorgeous and ruthlessly determined-and she's also Chris's ex. Mattie throws herself headfirst into finding Chris, following leads to the three people Chris was investigating when he vanished: a billionaire suspected of cheating on his wife, a soccer star accused of throwing games, and a nightclub owner with ties to the Russian mob. Any one of them would surely want Chris gone-and one of them is evil enough to want him dead.

AND SHE'S AFTER MORE THAN THE TRUTH

Mattie's chase takes her into Berlin's most guarded, hidden, and treacherous places, revealing secrets from Chris's past that she'd never dreamed of in the time they were lovers. On the brink of a terrifying discovery, Mattie holds on to her belief in Chris - in the face of a horror that could force all of Europe to the edge of destruction and chaos.

It's Monday! What Are You Reading? (Jan 21)

What Are You Reading is a weekly Monday Meme that is hosted by Sheila from One Persons Journey: http://bookjourney.wordpress.com

Post the books you read last week, book currently being read and books you plan on finishing this week.

Last week I read:

1.  Murder Hooks a Mermaid - Christy Fifield
2.  Against the Sun - Kat Martin

I’m currently reading:

1.  Private Berlin - James Patterson
2.  The Presence - Heather Graham

Here's the link:

http://bookjourney.wordpress.com/2013/01/20/its-monday-what-are-you-reading-17 

Against the Sun (Thorndike Press Large Print Core Series) [Large Print] [Hardcover]

I've finished "Against the Sun" the 6th book in her Raines in the Wind Canyon series by Kat Martin.

Product Description

Millions of lives are on the line. But for him, only one truly matters.

It's not in bodyguard Jake Cantrell's job description to share his suspicions with his assignments. Beautiful executive Sage Dumont may be in charge, but Jake's not on her payroll. As a former special forces marine, Jake trusts his gut, and it's telling him there's something off about a shipment arriving at Marine Drilling International. His instinct is aroused ... in more ways than one.

A savvy businesswoman, Sage knows better than to take some hired gun's "hunch" as gospel. And yet she is learning not to underestimate the man her grandfather hired to protect her. Determined to prove Jake wrong, Sage does some digging of her own and turns up deadly details she was never meant to see.

Drawn into a terrifying web of lies and deceit - and into feelings they can't afford to explore - what Jake and Sage uncover may be frighteningly worse than they ever imagined.


About the Author

Kat Martin is the New York Times bestselling author of more than fifty historical and contemporary romance novels. To date she has over 13 million copies of her books in print in seventeen countries, including Sweden, France, Russia, Spain, Japan, Argentina, Poland, and Greece. Kat and her husband, author Larry Jay Martin, live on their ranch outside Missoula, Montana, and spend winters at their beach house in California. Kat invites you to visit her website at www.KatMartin.com.

Product Details
Mass Market Paperback: 400 pages
Publisher: Mira (May 29, 2012)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0778313506
ISBN-13: 978-0778313502

My Review:

Sage Dumont works for her grandfather at Marine Drilling International and she is next in line.  She has worked hard to get where she is and she has to seal a deal to buy some used drilling equipment from a Saudi Arabian Sheik.  Her grandfather hires a bodyguard from Atlas Security to protect Sage because he believes their is a huge threat with bringing a Saudi Arabian Sheik to Houston. 

Jake Cantrell used to be Special Forces so he is familiar with Saudi Arabian protocols.  He teaches Sage and anyone she needs to learn the protocol and to help provide protection.

Sage isn't too happy with having a bodyguard but she doesn't know the first thing how to act or speak around a Sheik and doesn't want to offend him or his family.  She also isn't too happy about her strong attraction to this big brute of a man even though she is engaged to man she believes society and her grandfather would be happy with.

Jake is strongly attracted to Sage but he doesn't get involved with other man's women especially engaged ones.  He comes up with a solution that he would provide protection for Sage and help her with her negotiations with the Sheik.

This book was very fast paced with a lot of intrigue and a hot romance.  The only thing that prevented me in giving this book a 5 was Sage's attitude that Jake is the wrong man for her to marry.  Glad her grandfather had that talk with her to show her error of her ways.

4.5/5

Other books in series:

1.  Against the Wind
2.  Against the Fire
3.  Against the Law
4.  Against the Storm
5.  Against the Night
6.  Against the Sun
7.  Against the Odds
8.  Against the Edge - April 30, 2013

In the Mail Saturday 2013 (Jan 19)

In the Mail Saturday is hosted every Saturday at Mystery Thrillers and Romantic Suspense Reviews.

I received these in the mail this week.

For Review:

Private Berlin [Hardcover]



Private Berlin has the extraordinary pace and international sophistication that has powered The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo and Patterson's #1 bestseller The Postcard Killers.

IN EUROPE'S MOST DANGEROUS CITY

Chris Schneider is a superstar agent at Private Berlin, Germany headquarters for the world's most powerful investigation firm. He keeps his methods secret as he tackles Private's most high-profile cases - and when Chris suddenly disappears, he becomes Private Berlin's most dangerous investigation yet.

AN INVESTIGATOR IS SEARCHING

Mattie Engel is another top agent at Private Berlin, gorgeous and ruthlessly determined - and she's also Chris's ex. Mattie throws herself headfirst into finding Chris, following leads to the three people Chris was investigating when he vanished: a billionaire suspected of cheating on his wife, a soccer star accused of throwing games, and a nightclub owner with ties to the Russian mob. Any one of them would surely want Chris gone-and one of them is evil enough to want him dead.

AND SHE'S AFTER MORE THAN THE TRUTH

Mattie's chase takes her into Berlin's most guarded, hidden, and treacherous places, revealing secrets from Chris's past that she'd never dreamed of in the time they were lovers. On the brink of a terrifying discovery, Mattie holds on to her belief in Chris - in the face of a horror that could force all of Europe to the edge of destruction and chaos.

James Patterson has taken the European thriller to a masterful new level with Private Berlin, an adrenaline-charged, spectacularly violent and sexy novel with unforgettable characters of dark and complex depths. Private Berlin proves why Patterson is truly the world's #1 bestselling author.

Thrill Ride (Black Knights Inc.) [Mass Market Paperback]

HE'S GONE ROGUE

Ex-Navy SEAL Rock Babineaux's job is to get information, and he's one of the best in the business. Until something goes horribly wrong and he's being hunted by his own government. Even his best friends at the covert special-ops organization Black Knights Inc. aren't sure they can trust him. He thinks he can outrun them all, but his former partner — a curvy bombshell who knows just how to drive him wild — refuses to cut him loose.

SHE WON'T BACK DOWN

Vanessa Cordera hasn't been the team's communication specialist very long, but she knows how to read people-no way is Rock guilty of murder. And she'll go to hell and back to help him prove it. Sure, the sexy Cajun has his secrets, but there's no one in the world she'd rather have by her side in a tight spot. Which is good, because they're about to get very tight.

Waiting on Wednesday

Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly event, that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.

This week's pre-publication "can't-wait-to-read" selection are:

Private Berlin [Hardcover]

IN EUROPE'S MOST DANGEROUS CITY

Chris Schneider is a superstar agent at Private Berlin, Germany headquarters for the world's most powerful investigation firm. He keeps his methods secret as he tackles Private's most high-profile cases-and when Chris suddenly disappears, he becomes Private Berlin's most dangerous investigation yet.

AN INVESTIGATOR IS SEARCHING

Mattie Engel is another top agent at Private Berlin, gorgeous and ruthlessly determined-and she's also Chris's ex. Mattie throws herself headfirst into finding Chris, following leads to the three people Chris was investigating when he vanished: a billionaire suspected of cheating on his wife, a soccer star accused of throwing games, and a nightclub owner with ties to the Russian mob. Any one of them would surely want Chris gone-and one of them is evil enough to want him dead.

AND SHE'S AFTER MORE THAN THE TRUTH

Mattie's chase takes her into Berlin's most guarded, hidden, and treacherous places, revealing secrets from Chris's past that she'd never dreamed of in the time they were lovers. On the brink of a terrifying discovery, Mattie holds on to her belief in Chris - in the face of a horror that could force all of Europe to the edge of destruction and chaos.

Suspect [Hardcover]

The explosive new masterpiece of suspense from the #1 New York Times – bestselling author.

LAPD cop Scott James is not doing so well. Eight months ago, a shocking nighttime assault by unidentified men killed his partner Stephanie, nearly killed him, and left him enraged, ashamed, and ready to explode. He is unfit for duty — until he meets his new partner.

Maggie is not doing so well, either. A German shepherd who survived three tours in Iraq and Afghanistan sniffing explosives before losing her handler to an IED, her PTSD is as bad as Scott’s.

They are each other’s last chance. Shunned and shunted to the side, they set out to investigate the one case that no one wants them to touch: the identity of the men who murdered Stephanie. What they begin to find is nothing like what Scott has been told, and the journey will take them both through the darkest moments of their own personal hells. Whether they will make it out again, no one can say.

Killing Time (One-Eyed Jacks) [Mass Market Paperback]

“We can do this easy,” she whispered close to his ear as he groaned in agony, “or it can go real hard on you.”

Well, of course he wasn’t going to go easy.

New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Cindy Gerard plunges readers into the heart of a seductive contest of wills between a hard-living hero and a beautiful rogue operative who is on a mission to dig up the secrets of his past. Tension sizzles in this pulse-pounding first adventure in Gerard’s action-packed new series as Eva Salinas lures Mike Brown from the sultry streets of Lima, Peru, to the desolate Idaho wilderness on the hunt for the cold-blooded traitor behind a fatal military operation that haunts them both.

Murder Hooks a Mermaid (Haunted Souvenir, Book 2) (A Haunted Souvenir) [Mass Market Paperback]

I've finished "Murder Hooks a Mermaid" the 2nd book in her Haunted Souvenir series by Christy Fifield.

Product Description

Nestled in Keyhole Bay, Florida, Glory Martine’s souvenir shop, Southern Treasures, is supposed to trap tourists — not ghosts. But a possessed parrot may be just what Glory needs to solve a murder.

Inheriting her great-uncle Louis’s bayside souvenir shop should have been a breeze for Glory. Instead it’s been one headache after another — with a lot of them generated by Bluebeard, a parrot with a mouth like a sailor and a personality a lot like her late great-uncle. But Glory’s troubles pale in comparison to those of her best friend Karen, whose ex may still have the personalized key chain to her heart, but whose brother-in-law is about to get locked up.

A diver has been found with a gaff hook in his chest, and Karen turns to Glory to help get her brother-in-law off the hook for his murder. But casting the net for the real killer won’t be easy. Glory and Bluebeard are about to find out that the secrets in Keyhole Bay run deeper than anyone ever imagined.

About the Author

Christy Fifield is a pen name of Christina F. York. Chris lives on the rugged Oregon coast, with her husband and fellow writer, J. Steven York.  

Product Details
Reading level: Ages 18 and up
Mass Market Paperback: 304 pages
Publisher: Berkley; Reprint edition (December 31, 2012)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0425251845
ISBN-13: 978-0425251843 

My Review:

Glory Martine owns Southern Treasures a souvenir shop with her cousin Peter in Keyhole Bay, Florida.   She inherited it from her uncle Louis along with a parrot Bluebird with a mouth like a sailor and a personality just like Uncle Louis.  Bluebird is possessed by the spirit of her Uncle Louis and he helps her solve cases.

One morning as Glory first opens her shop her best friend Karen arrives very upset.  Every week Glory and her friends Karen, Felipe and Ernie have a traditional supper.  It's Karen's week to cook but her ex-husband  promised her he would catch some fish for her but has loaned his boat to his delinquent younger brother Bobby.  Bobby is arrested with three other men who he has taken for a dive trip and soon after he has made bail a man is found dead with a gaff hook stuck in his heart.

We see Karen still has strong feelings for her ex-husband and his family and she is determined to prove that Bobby is innocent.  While investigating with Glory's help they question other fisherman about the three men that were with Bobby.

Glory spends more time with Jake the bookstore owner across the street from her.  There is a mutual attraction between them and Bluebird helps Glory once again with his cryptic sayings.

I loved all the characters because they all have a personality and they are fun to read about.  We see more of Sly who owns an auto savage yard and his dog Bobo from the previous book who saved Glory in that one.

This book shows the strong bonds between family (even though you aren't related by blood) and friends.

4/5

It's Monday! What Are You Reading? (Jan 14)

What Are You Reading is a weekly Monday Meme that is hosted by Sheila from One Persons Journey: http://bookjourney.wordpress.com

Post the books you read last week, book currently being read and books you plan on finishing this week.

Last week I read:

1.  Falling Off the Wind - Richard Miebers

I’m currently reading:

1.  Murder Hooks a Mermaid - Christy Fifield
2.  Against the Sun - Kat Martin

Here's the link:

http://bookjourney.wordpress.com/2013/01/13/its-monday-what-are-you-reading-171 

Library Haul 2013 (Jan 13 - 19)

Here's the list of books I picked up from the library this week:

Hardcover:

1.  Against the Sun - Kat Martin

Falling Off The Wind [Paperback]

I've finished "Falling Off the Wind" by Richard Miebers.

Product Description

Clement Scheutz, his schooner smashed on the rocks of Puerto Rico by a hurricane, is accused of killing a local islander. The woman he loves has deserted him and he is without money. While putting the boat back together, he helps rebuild a local restaurant and finds new love with the owner.

Product Details
Paperback: 364 pages
Publisher: Martin and Lawrence Press (October 1, 2012)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0982073283
ISBN-13: 978-0982073285

My Review:

Clement Scheutz is a 50 year old man who has raised two grown up sons who married and is now divorced.  He has spent the last seven years sailing the Caribbean with Samantha his much younger and luscious girlfriend.

They are sailing on an old schooner named "Panacea" which has more than two masks and is a 65 foot wooden-hulled boat built in the 1920's that was used as a British racing boat.  They soon dock on a Caribbean Island because they need to save some money since they are flat broke.

Clement visits a small restaurant "El Tapon" managed by thirty + Migdala the granddaughter of the owner.  He's danced with her five years ago at a party and he realizes there is a sparkle in her eyes.  She makes him an offer he can't refuse - help her in the kitchen and he can have the left over food at the end of the day.

3/5

In the Mail Saturday 2013 (Jan 12)

In the Mail Saturday is hosted every Saturday at Mystery Thrillers and Romantic Suspense Reviews.

I received this in the mail this week.

For Review:

Murder Hooks a Mermaid (A Haunted Souvenir) [Mass Market Paperback] 

Product Description

Nestled in Keyhole Bay, Florida, Glory Martine’s souvenir shop, Southern Treasures, is supposed to trap tourists — not ghosts. But a possessed parrot may be just what Glory needs to solve a murder.

Inheriting her great-uncle Louis’s bayside souvenir shop should have been a breeze for Glory. Instead it’s been one headache after another — with a lot of them generated by Bluebeard, a parrot with a mouth like a sailor and a personality a lot like her late great-uncle. But Glory’s troubles pale in comparison to those of her best friend Karen, whose ex may still have the personalized key chain to her heart, but whose brother-in-law is about to get locked up.

A diver has been found with a gaff hook in his chest, and Karen turns to Glory to help get her brother-in-law off the hook for his murder. But casting the net for the real killer won’t be easy. Glory and Bluebeard are about to find out that the secrets in Keyhole Bay run deeper than anyone ever imagined.

Double Danger (An A-Tac Novel) [Mass Market Paperback]

I've finished "Double Danger" the 6th book in her A-Tac series by Dee Davis.

Product Description

Ignoring his instincts once cost Simon a vital op-and the life of his best friend, Ryan. Now as escalating, violent attacks hit A-Tac, another person he loves is in danger. Homeland Security agent Jillian Montgomery's investigation has suddenly brought her back into Simon's life, and unless they can learn to trust each other, their dangerous mission will fail.

After her husband Ryan's death, Jillian dedicates herself to saving others. She can't afford to be tempted by Simon, even though his every touch reignites the desire they once shared. But in the last desperate minutes before disaster strikes, their second chance at love might be the most lethal trap of all .

About the Author

Bestselling author Dee Davis worked in association management before turning her hand to writing. Her highly acclaimed first novel, Everything in Its Time, was published in July 2000. Since then, among others, she's won the Booksellers Best, Golden Leaf, Texas Gold, and Prism awards, and been nominated for the National Readers Choice Award, the Holt Medallion Award, and two RT Reviewers Choice Awards. When not sitting at the computer writing, she spends her time exploring Manhattan with her husband, daughter, and Cardigan Welsh corgi.

You can learn more at:
DeeDavis.com
Twitter @deedavis
Facebook.com/deedavisbooks 

My Review:

Simon, Jillian (aka JJ) and Ryan all met in college when one night things went sour between Simon and Jillian.  Jillian married Ryan a few months later and Simon rode out of her life.  Simon and Ryan were both in the SEALs on the same team when Ryan was killed on a mission.  Simon hasn't seen Jillian since the funeral and believes she blames him for Ryan's death.  He blames himself but he doesn't know the dark secret about his dead friend.

During a terrorist attack at a local hospital they are reunited and shocked to see each other.  JJ is now known as Jillian and is working at Homeland Security and Simon works for A-Tac.  Both are assigned to work together on the case.

It was great to see the whole team in this book helping Simon and Jillian with their case which involves The Consortium.

Loved the history and chemistry between Simon and Jillian.  You can feel how they care for each other and their friends and families.

4/5

It's Monday! What Are You Reading? (Jan 7)

What Are You Reading is a weekly Monday Meme that is hosted by Sheila from One Persons Journey: http://bookjourney.wordpress.com

Post the books you read last week, book currently being read and books you plan on finishing this week.

Last week I read:

1.  The Officer Breaks the Rules - Jeanette Murray
2.  Private London - James Patterson
3.  Double Danger - Dee Davis

I’m currently reading:

1.  Falling Off the Wind - Richard Miebers

Here's the link:

http://bookjourney.wordpress.com/2013/01/06/its-monday-what-are-you-reading-170 

Private London [Paperback]

I've finished "Private London" the book in his Private series by James Patterson.

Product Description

The next explosive book in James Patterson's #1 bestselling Private series!

For Hannah Shapiro, a beautiful young American student, this particular nightmare began eight years ago in Los Angeles, when Jack Morgan, owner of Private -- the world's most exclusive detective agency -- saved her from a horrific death. She has fled her country, but can't flee her past. The terror has followed her to London, and now it is down to former Royal Military Police Sergeant Dan Carter, head of Private London, to save her all over again.

In central London, young women are being abducted off the street. When the bodies are found some days later, they have been mutilated in a particularly mysterious way. Dan Carter's ex-wife, DI Kirsty Webb, is involved in the investigation and it looks likely that the two cases are gruesomely linked.

Dan Carter drawn on the whole resources of Private International in a desperate race against the odds. But the clock is ticking ... Private may be the largest and most technologically advanced detection agency in the world, but the one thing they don't have is the one thing they need -- time.

About the Author

James Patterson has had more New York Times bestsellers than any other writer, ever, according to Guinness World Records. Since his first novel won the Edgar Award in 1977 James Patterson's books have sold more than 240 million copies. He is the author of the Alex Cross novels, the most popular detective series of the past twenty-five years, including Kiss the Girls and Along Came a Spider. Mr. Patterson also writes the bestselling Women's Murder Club novels, set in San Francisco, and the top-selling New York detective series of all time, featuring Detective Michael Bennett. He writes full-time and lives in Florida with his family.

Product Details
Paperback: 400 pages
Publisher: Grand Central Publishing; Reprint edition (December 4, 2012)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1455515558
ISBN-13: 978-1455515554

My Review:

Eight years ago Jack Morgan owner of Private (the world's most exclusive detective agency) saved Hannah Sharpiro's life from a horrible death in Los Angeles.  Hannah had to watch unspeakable acts bestowed upon her mother because he father refused to pay ransom money for their freedom.

Hannah is a young and beautiful American student who has fled her country but now her past has caught up with her in London.  Now it's up to former Royal Military Police Sergeant Dan Carter head of the London Private Office to save her once again.

Dan Carter's ex-wife DI Kirsty Webb is assigned to the horrifying cases of women being abducted from the streets and a few days later their mutilated bodies are found.  Then when Hannah is abducted Kristy finds a link that ties the two horrifying cases together.

This was a very fast paced thriller with lots of action: murder, rape, hypnotic suggestion, kidnapping, organ thievery ring an organized crime.  I did feel like there was a London feel to the story and the characters were well developed.

3.5/5

Waiting on Wednesday

Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly event, that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.

This week's pre-publication "can't-wait-to-read" selection is:

Private Berlin [Hardcover]

Product Description

IN EUROPE'S MOST DANGEROUS CITY

Chris Schneider is a superstar agent at Private Berlin, Germany headquarters for the world's most powerful investigation firm. He keeps his methods secret as he tackles Private's most high-profile cases-and when Chris suddenly disappears, he becomes Private Berlin's most dangerous investigation yet.

AN INVESTIGATOR IS SEARCHING

Mattie Engel is another top agent at Private Berlin, gorgeous and ruthlessly determined-and she's also Chris's ex. Mattie throws herself headfirst into finding Chris, following leads to the three people Chris was investigating when he vanished: a billionaire suspected of cheating on his wife, a soccer star accused of throwing games, and a nightclub owner with ties to the Russian mob. Any one of them would surely want Chris gone-and one of them is evil enough to want him dead.

AND SHE'S AFTER MORE THAN THE TRUTH

Mattie's chase takes her into Berlin's most guarded, hidden, and treacherous places, revealing secrets from Chris's past that she'd never dreamed of in the time they were lovers. On the brink of a terrifying discovery, Mattie holds on to her belief in Chris-in the face of a horror that could force all of Europe to the edge of destruction and chaos.

Product Details
Hardcover: 448 pages
Publisher: Little, Brown and Company (January 21, 2013)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0316211176
ISBN-13: 978-0316211178

The Officer Breaks the Rules (Semper Fidelis. Always Faithful.) [Mass Market Paperback]

I've finished "The Officer Breaks the Rules" by Jeanette Murray.

Product Description

Some Rules Are Meant To Be Broken

He's Ruled by Loyalty...

Every man knows that you don't date your best friend's little sister, but Captain Jeremy Phillips can't seem to be convince Madison O'Shay to stay away. And he can't convince himself to stop thinking about her, either.

She's Ruled by Love ...

Madison knows exactly what she wants ... and whom. But she won't give up her career in the Navy for any man, not even Jeremy.

They're both about to learn that in the game of love, it's all about breaking the rules.

Product Details
Mass Market Paperback: 352 pages
Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca (January 8, 2013)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1402265433
ISBN-13: 978-1402265433

My Review:

Captain Jeremy Phillips knows deep down inside that he shouldn't get involved with his best friend's little sister Madison O'Shay.  He can't stop thinking about her and is having trouble convincing her to stay away.

Madison O'Shay works as a Navy nurse and she knows what she wants - Captain Jeremy Phillips but she won't give up her job for him.


3.5/5

New Release 2013 (Jan 1)

Shadow Woman: A Novel [Hardcover]

From perennial New York Times bestselling author Linda Howard comes a thrilling and sensual new novel of romance, suspense, intrigue . . . and memories that can kill.

SHADOW WOMAN

Lizette Henry wakes up one morning and makes a terrifying discovery: She doesn’t recognize the face she sees in the mirror. She remembers what she looks like, but her reflection is someone else’s. To add to the shock, two years seem to have disappeared from her life. Someone has gone to great and inexplicable lengths to keep those missing years hidden forever. But the past always finds a way to return.

Strange memories soon begin to surface and, along with them, some unusual skills and talents that Lizette hasn’t a clue about acquiring. Sensing that she’s being monitored, Lizette suddenly knows how to search for bugs in her house and tracking devices in her car. What’s more, she can elude surveillance — like a trained agent.

Enter a mysterious and seductive stranger named Xavier, who claims he wants to help — but who triggers disturbing images of an unspeakable crime of which Lizette may or may not be the perpetrator. With memories returning, she suddenly becomes a target of anonymous assassins. On the run with nowhere to hide, Lizette has no choice but to rely on Xavier, a strong and magnetic man she doesn’t trust, with a powerful attraction she cannot resist. As murky waters become clear, Lizette confronts a conspiracy that is treacherous and far-reaching and a truth that, once revealed, may silence her and Xavier once and for all.

January Releases

1st
Shadow Woman - Linda Howard

21st
Private Berlin - James Patterson

22nd
Suspect - Robert Crais
Killing Time - Cindy Gerard

29th
The Vision - Heather Graham
The Seventh Victim - Mary Burton
Shadowkiller - Wendy Corsi Staub

Happy New Year's

Happy New Year's everyone!