Leaving No Traces (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome) by P.J. Mann – Review by Julie Johnson

Leaving No Traces (Commissario Scala #5)Leaving No Traces by P. J. Mann
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

4.5 stars

If ever there was a need for a detective, I could only hope they’d be as dedicated and determined as Detective Scala!!

He’s at it again, trying to sort out who is behind the disappearance of a woman last seen in a service station buying cigarrettes. All they have so far is her car and a lot of questions.

As Detective Scala digs into the case, he learns that his victim is involved in a couple of affairs. This makes his suspect list even longer than he originally thought. Also, everyone he interviews comes across as cagey and hiding information.

However, after a bunch of twists, turns, and adventures, along with a mandatory vacation, Detective Scala is able to cuff the appropiate people involved in this case.

Another very well written and entertaining mystery by P.J. Mann!

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Murder in a Gated Community by Laura Koerber – Review by Jennifer Gordon

Murder in a Gated CommunityMurder in a Gated Community by Laura Koerber
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I didn’t really know what to expect from this fairly short novella, as the blurb was a little vague, however I was hooked from page one. I thought it was going to be a typical cozy mystery, but the fairly lighthearted storyline about the residents of an upscale gated community, Oaken Acres, has a quirky and unique plot. The characters are all well defined and I felt like I knew them all by the end of the story, the majority of the narrative is centred on the community garden and it’s politics. The descriptive narrative brought both the setting of Oaken Acres and its residents vividly to life, and I felt immersed in their world, of dog barking, gardening plot disputes, drones and golfers. This darkly funny story definitely kept me turning the pages, the meetings from the BOD meetings in particular providing some laugh out loud moments. The list of characters at the beginning was very useful, and I enjoyed the authors writing style, whilst the unpredictable plot kept me guessing as to the outcome of the story. A quick read which had me captivated throughout.

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Liz’s Road Trip by Bernadette Marie – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

Liz's Road TripLiz’s Road Trip by Bernadette Marie
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I liked the concept of the road trip to discovery behind the book, especially as the discovery wasn’t just limited to Liz. I loved the way we learnt more about Liz’s grandmother as the story progressed, it added a more engaging element to the mystery surrounding her.

I liked the characters (Mark especially), they were well-written and relatable.
Liz was another good character; she was understandably going through a difficult time and was dealing with it as best she could despite all the secrets that were gradually coming to light. There were times she was a little frustrating, but this was a minor issue compared to the rest of the book.

This was an entertaining and at times surprising read, and I look forward to reading more from this author.

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I Am An Outer Space Alien (I am an Alien) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Ayla Phipps

I Am An Outer Space Alien (I am an Alien)I Am An Outer Space Alien by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

We are all different. Shirl doesn’t “fit in” with the humans of Earth, she doesn’t like creamy spinach or sports so she thinks she must be an alien. Talented with electronics, she creates a radio that allows her to talk to aliens. Eee-ahh hears the call and comes to visit hoping they have found their home planet. After some trial and error while they look different, they find a common activity they both enjoy. Beautiful illustrations to go with a cute little story about friendship in all shapes and colors.

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Ten Little Starfish by Kim Ann – Review by Ayla Phipps

Ten Little Starfish: A Counting BookTen Little Starfish: A Counting Book by Kim Ann
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Beautifully designed. This book is honestly so beautiful and informative in a fun way. The author shows the starfish is several different locations or habitats that they are commonly found in. While also giving some starfish facts at the end of the book. Beautiful rhymes to go with the beautiful pictures.

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Refrain (Off the Record Book 3) by Madelynne Ellis – Review by Bobbi Wagner

Refrain (Off the Record Book 3)Refrain by Madelynne Ellis
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I enjoyed reading this dark romance story. This is not my first book by this author but it is one of my favorites yet. I enjoy this author’s writing skills as well as her attention to details that make her stories pop. I found this book to be well written and hard to put down. A story where enemies become lovers and the journey to get there is a little rough. This is a fast paced story where the characters are connectable, strong and had me coming back for more. I enjoyed watching their chemistry and growth throughout the book. They kept the story engaging and made it easy to read. I really enjoyed this story and what the characters brought to the story was great. I highly recommend this book.

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Review by @bjwagner

Master Campania (Masters of the Consulate Book 7) by Sylvia Black – Review by Bobbi Wagner

Master Campania: Dark Vampire Romance (Masters of the Consulate Book 7)Master Campania: Dark Vampire Romance by Sylvia Black
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a series that I have enjoyed reading from the first book. I highly suggest reading the previous books in this series to help your enhancement of this series and this author. One of the things I enjoy most about this author is her ability to pull me into her story with ease and keep my attention throughout the story. This book is no different. This is the seventh book in the series which just keeps getting better and better with each book. A story where mafia, vampires and romance are mixed together in a hard to put down book. I enjoyed how the characters pulled me into the story from the start. They are steamy, strong characters that make the story easy and entertaining to read. A story that has great chemistry, attraction and growth throughout. This is a fast paced, hard to put down story and one you don’t want to miss. I highly recommend this book and this series.

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Review by @bjwagner

Mr Lucky (Trentbridge Tales Book 1) by Lee Wood – Review by Christine Baranek

Mr Lucky (Trentbridge Tales #1)Mr Lucky by Lee Wood
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Mr. Lucky
By: Lee Wood

This is such a fantastic read. It is as billed, completely unpredictable. Detective James Sheldon is an absolutely amazing character, he is incredibly likable and you are rooting for him through the whole book. This is an absolutely fantastic story of how a millionaire and a homeless person cross paths because of a lottery win. I will honestly tell you that this book kept me reading late at night and guessing until the very last page. This is the first book in the Trentbridge Tales Series and I am glad to hear that. I enjoyed this book I am glad to see that the author will be writing more. I definitely recommend giving this book a try!

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Liz’s Road Trip by Bernadette Marie – Review by Christine Baranek

Liz's Road TripLiz’s Road Trip by Bernadette Marie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Liz’s Road Trip
By: Bernadette Marie

First off, let me say that I have never read a Bernadette Marie book and not love it. However, this one exceeded each and every one of my expectations. Liz Evans is quite possibly the best character she has written so far and I just loved the plot of this one. I love that Liz is challenged to live a life with no regrets. I love the whole premise of this book. I love that her grandmother had a whole secret life that she didn’t know about. This is just such a wonderful story. I cannot recommend reading this book enough. Heck, I cannot recommend reading any of Bernadette Marie’s Books enough! But this is the one that I would not miss! It is so well written with such endearing characters!

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Shadowed Obsession (Shadow Defense Security Series Book 1) by Mavery Ellscott – Review by Cindy Mayberry

Shadowed Obsession: An Action-Packed Romantic Suspense Thriller (Shadow Defense Security Series Book 1)Shadowed Obsession: An Action-Packed Romantic Suspense Thriller by Mavery Ellscott
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Kiera O’Ryan does all things well. Works hard, and can do most things independently. Having said that, Kiera finds herself running from a stalker. When she turns to the police for help, they find nothing to back up her story. Cade Hartford, served his country, and afterwards joined a Private Military contractor. When his neighbor turns to him for help, his answer is yes. Now the real story begins. Can Cade help Kiera get away from her stalker? With romance also in the turn of events can they both fight the pull? This is the beginning of the series. Being a new to me author. But after reading this story, there will be many more intriguing stories to be read. I love her characters and the twists, turns and suspense kept me on the edge of my seat. The story is a stand alone and the beginning of what looks to be a great series. I am looking forward to reading more from this author. This series is off to a great start.

Review@cinful

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An Unequal Defense by Chad Zunker – Review by Colleen Noyes

An Unequal Defense (David Adams, #2)An Unequal Defense by Chad Zunker
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

An Unequal Defense is the second book in the David Adams series and is every bit as great as the first one. David is back and although he has pretty much lost everything, he doesn’t allow it to define him. He’s trying to still do right by his friend Benny and the other men from camp. When Davis is presented with a new case involving the death of someone he loves he quickly has to decide what the right thing to do is and how to do it.

This is another case that will keep you on the edge of your seat with every twist, turn, and angst. You will not be able to put the book down and soon realize that once again NOTHING is as it seems. The author does a great job of intertwining so many personalities and characters that you have a hard time figuring out who is actual good and who is evil. This author is quickly becoming one of my favorites as I’ve read 3 of his books in 4 days.

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An Equal Justice by Chad Zunker – Review by Colleen Noyes

An Equal Justice (David Adams, #1)An Equal Justice by Chad Zunker
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

David Adams has lived a life of poverty, hardship and heartache. Losing both parents at a young age and then getting into some trouble he is finally trying to put his life together and get back on track. Since David has seen what having no money or little money does to people he is thrilled to be a new prestigious up and coming lawyer who will stop at nothing to reach the top. Long nights, check. Hard work, check. Extreme sacrifices, check. An unhealthy competition, check. However, things aren’t always as they seem and when David is pulled into a case by someone you would least expect it unravels everything he thought he knew and would do. This author writes the characters brilliantly and I can not get enough of them. This book played out like a crime tv show with twists, turns, and an amazing whodunit. I can hardly wait to continue this series and read everything by this author.

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All He Has Left by Chad Zunker – Review by Colleen Noyes

All He Has LeftAll He Has Left by Chad Zunker
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I received a copy of Alle He Has Left early as this month’s kindle first program and having never read this author I was intrigued and impressed. The mystery this author wields will have your head snapping back and forth. It refers to that old saying that money can’t buy you everything and often is the biggest form of corruption there is. When Jake’s wife suddenly dies, his whole world is ripped apart. However, as the story progresses the number of dirty little secrets will make your mouth drop. The characters are written strong and I admire that Jake refuses to let money change his morals and convictions. You can feel the desperation he goes through for what happens after the death of his wife and how hard he will fight for all he has left. Excellent book that I couldn’t put down and I immediately purchased his other books to dive into.

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Dirty Minds by Liliana Hart – Review by Colleen Noyes

Dirty Minds (A J.J. Graves Mystery #12)Dirty Minds by Liliana Hart
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

With a sniper on the loose, Jack and JJ are trying desperately to figure out what is going on and why. We start to see more of what is going on with the Ben Carver situation, and now you have to wonder what did Ben get himself into. There are many moments that are very high octane in this book and I must admit that I’m sad to see that the author has taken a break and may not even return to writing. I’m a little frustrated that as of this moment there is no closure on many of the story lines however, I still enjoyed this book as I have the entire series. When you read this series it always feels like visiting old friends or family and you never want it to end.

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Back to the 80s by S.E. Reichert and Kerrie Flanagan – Review by Trish Ann

Back to the 80'sBack to the 80’s by S.E. Reichert
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was a cute read! I was born in the 80’s but was more a 90’s girl. I appreciated the references to that nostalgic time period. I liked the overall story and thought it was fun. If you like the 80’s you may like this!

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Fortune’s Favorite (Soulbound Journeys Book 2) by C. L. Schneider – Review by Amber Howard

Fortune's Favorite (Soulbound Journeys #2)Fortune’s Favorite by C.L. Schneider
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I swear I love this series so much! It’s a thrill reading about Ian’s adventures and relationships. Getting to be apart of his growth and life lessons is so special. This particular installment was terrific. Both Ian and Jarryd needing some healing and to thrive on their own in order to strengthen their bond together. They were both harboring feelings of pain, regret, and guilt. They knew how each other felt, but they didn’t really talk about it. The trials they faced in Providence proved to be the recipe they needed to face their demons. I cannot wait to see what’s next for these two, and Kya too!

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How to Catch Little Boys and Eat Them by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Heather Goodman

How to Catch Little Boys and Eat ThemHow to Catch Little Boys and Eat Them by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was a new spin on the old jack and the beanstalk fairytale. It’s a cute spin on it. My girl loves every kids book by this author. They are really good at drawing you in and keeping you interested until the last word.

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I Am An Outer Space Alien (I am an Alien) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Lorralei Hoerner

I Am An Outer Space Alien (I am an Alien)I Am An Outer Space Alien by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

5 Stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

Very cute, engaging, colorful story that can be enjoyed by young children but also the young at heart.

Shirl does not remember being born on earth, as she feels like she does not fit in….and she does not like certain things to eat…so in her mind she is an alien. When a flying saucer arrives she meets a new friend…Eee-ahh. Both Shirl and Eee-aah become fast friends and discover differences on where they might come from.

This is a cute story and I love the discovery of friendship.

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Fortune’s Favorite (Soulbound Journeys Book 2) by C. L. Schneider – Review by Dawn Daughenbaugh

Fortune's Favorite (Soulbound Journeys #2)Fortune’s Favorite by C.L. Schneider
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

5 Stars
Fortune’s Favorite (Soulbound Journeys Book 2) by C. L. Schneider

Fortune’s Favorite (Soulbound Journeys Book 2) is a wonderfully written Dark Fantasy that I loved reading. I was as usual pulled in from beginning and there was no putting it down until I finished. I’m a huge fan of this author and her style of writing along with amazing characters make for a epic story. Ian and Jarrod have been at sea for a while now and it seems they may have found the perfect port to dock and restock supplies for their stores. Something doesn’t feel quite right to Ian but Jarrod can’t hardly wait to get to shore. What will happen when things take a dangerous turn? I highly recommend reading this book to find out. I look forward to reading more from this Author.

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The Reluctant Suitor (The Studs of Clear Creek County) by Stacy-Deanne – Review by Rayne East

The Reluctant Suitor (The Studs of Clear Creek County)The Reluctant Suitor by Stacy-Deanne
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Short historical romance
3.5 stars
This quick read is the fifth book in the Studs of Clear Creek County Series. It’s a historical romance based in western times when interracial relationships were unacceptable. There’s forbidden love, age-gap, interracial relations, class divides and more within the story. Recommend.

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Fortune’s Favorite (Soulbound Journeys Book 2) by C. L. Schneider – Review by Rayne East

Fortune's Favorite (Soulbound Journeys #2)Fortune’s Favorite by C.L. Schneider
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Creative storytelling
The second book in Soulbound Journey Series, Fortune’s Favorite is an engaging tale. Ian and Jarryd have escaped only to find themselves adrift. What follows is a compelling adventure, told with brilliant imagery and layers of intrigue. I am totally hooked and eagerly await book 3. Definitely read book 1 first. Highly recommend.

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Oscar and Emmy Gain a Friend by Terri Sabol – Review by Stephanie Robb

Oscar and Emmy Gain a Friend: A Story About Trap-Neuter-ReturnOscar and Emmy Gain a Friend: A Story About Trap-Neuter-Return by Terri Sabol
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A wonderful story with beautiful illustrations introducing correct pet care to children. I loved this story and the approachable way it introduces strays and neutering your pets.

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Saved by the Everyday Hero (Limited Edition Romance Collections) by Naomi Valkyrie & Various Authors – Review by Kerry Carr

Saved by the Everyday HeroSaved by the Everyday Hero by Amelia Hayden
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a collection of steamy romance reads about guys who are everyday hero’s. It is a collection of 13 stories and all of them are unique and different. I loved them all but my 2 favourites are:

Unexpected Hero’s by Naomi Valkyrie
I always jump at any stories this author has because I know I will really enjoy them and this one was no exception. This is a MM Romance. It is a second chance small town romance with danger and Suspense inside. It is definately a page turner.
Elijah has moved with his son after problems in his past. Now he’s starting again and isn’t planning on a relationship or romance until he meets his neighbour Jude.
Jude is struggling with coming to terms with his past after losing his husband. So far he has his work and the bottle keeping him going but that all changes when he meets Elijah and his son. But things aren’t going to be plain sailing and when something from Elijah’s past returns threatening his and his sons safety, Jude is going to use all his skills and training to protect the new man in his life.

Broken Pieces by Amelia Hayden
This is a story that was very emotional to read. It was beautifully written and the author does an amazing job of showing the reader that not everyone comes back from war the same as they were when they went. This is a MM Romance and is a story about dealing with the aftermath of war, of finding your broken pieces and trying to put yourself back together again and also finding love along the way

Crossing the Lines By: Anne M. Scott
This for me was also a great read as I love anything crime related and this had it all. Danger, intrigue, chemistry and more. When a FBI agent and security expert are thrown together to go against a Russian mob, this story really gets fast paced and full of action.

All the stories are unique and different and all of them are great reads. Some will make you laugh, some will make you cry, some will keep you on the edge of your seat. You will be burning up with the passion and chemistry that are between these pages. If you love stories of hot men in uniform overcoming odds and finding love then this is definately for you.

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How to Catch Little Boys and Eat Them by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Stephanie Robb

How to Catch Little Boys and Eat ThemHow to Catch Little Boys and Eat Them by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I loved this retelling of Jack and the Beanstalk. On the first page, we meet the giant depicted as an alien, the story loosely follows the Jack and the Beanstalk traditional story but with a modern twist with illustrations to compliment it. I would highly recommend this story.

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Saved by the Everyday Hero (Limited Edition Romance Collections) by Naomi Valkyrie & Various Authors – Review by Jules Herbert

Saved by the Everyday HeroSaved by the Everyday Hero by Amelia Hayden
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This book is such a fabulous collection of stories with a wide variety of characters and experiences. My favourite was definitely “Unexpected Heroes” by Naomi Valkyrie which is a M/M Story that is so well written you just want more and more. Elijah and Jude are wonderful characters that weave their way into your heart right from the start. I will 100% be searching for more from this fabulous author. I am hoping there is more to be read not only about these characters but other side characters that we met because they have me intrigued as well. “Quin to the Rescue” by L.A. Remenicky also had me turning the pages quickly to find out what would happen next. Mirra and Quin are neighbours who click immediately but Quin soon learns he needs to tread carefully with Mirra and her heart. I really enjoyed this anthology and I know you will too!

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When Magic Calls: A Collection of Modern Fairy Tales by Caitlin Berve – Review by Brandy Vaughn

When Magic Calls: A Collection of Modern Fairy TalesWhen Magic Calls: A Collection of Modern Fairy Tales by Caitlin Berve
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I thoroughly enjoyed this collection of magic infused fairy tales. Each story is a noir adventure uniquely written and keeps the pages turning. The effort of rewriting the stories so they have their own personality instead of being a standard retelling. The creative nature of these modern stories is what you’ve been looking for!

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Sliding into Home (Playing for Keeps Book 3) by Lauren Fraser – Review by Beverly Finnie

Sliding into Home: A Secret Baby Sports Romance (Playing for Keeps Book 3)Sliding into Home: A Secret Baby Sports Romance by Lauren Fraser
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I’ve read a few sports/baseball romances recently, and Sliding into Home is one of the better ones. The author wrote a wonderful story about two people given a chance to get to know one another & have a redo on life together.
Jeff and Kia have been given a second chance, however it’s not just the two of them anymore. Max is an important part of the equation and all their decisions are made with his happiness in mind.
But where does that lead them?
This is not the first book I’ve read in this series but it’s probably my favorite. Though I do look forward to when the author gives us Gonzo’s story. He makes a good secondary character, but his story has lots of potential.
I’m a sucker for a good sports romance, especially baseball. I love baseball and reading and when the two come together it usually leads to a smile throughout the whole book.
I look forward to more books by this author. They definitely make for some good entertainment.

@placexba
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Dirty Dozen by Liliana Hart – Review by Colleen Noyes

Dirty Dozen (A J.J. Graves Mystery #11)Dirty Dozen by Liliana Hart
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Talk about dramatic and theatrical. We have a suspect who seems to want to be a copycat killer. Things, however, may not be as they seem as each stage of the murder has everybody confused on who the killer is and what his or her endgame is. This one hits close to home and reminds every one that they are always in danger. We are coming to realize there is something serious going on with Ben Carver and I can’t wait to find out what that big secret is.

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When Magic Calls: A Collection of Modern Fairy Tales by Caitlin Berve – Review by Santana Hicks

When Magic Calls: A Collection of Modern Fairy TalesWhen Magic Calls: A Collection of Modern Fairy Tales by Caitlin Berve
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

When Magic Calls is a collection of fairy tales that were modernized. I enjoyed most of them, some were exciting, some were boring. To each their own. The author did an amazing job delving into old tales and turning them into something more relatable.

My favorite story was ‘Borrowed Skin, Borrowed Year”. It was about a girl, named Cassidy, who found out her boyfriend was cheating on her and all her friends weren’t good friends. There was a tradition she learned from her grandmother to open the front and back door on New Years to let the old year exit and the new year enter. After doing so, Cassidy met a strange naked man injured on the beach. She brought the man home and this started a year of friendship. It is hinted throughout the story that the man is a selkie.

There are also tales of sirens, changelings, human/wolf hybrid, and so much more. There is a tale for everyone!

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Firewall by Jessica Mehring

FirewallFirewall by Jessica Mehring
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Jessica Mehring weaves a beautifully written thriller with a playful splash of romance. Firewall is told in both of the main characters POV. This book took me a 24 hour period to finish, I just couldn’t put it down.

Imagine going to work thinking it’ll be just another day, when suddenly your whole life gets flipped upside down because you took your IT security seriously. Not only are you being threatened but your family is also is danger.
Veronica Clark is in the IT security Business, a world dominated by men, she has struggled in her career to be heard and taken seriously and her new CTO and CEO are the kind of men that make you fight harder. After a set of events Veronica needs protection, the brother of Veronica’s Best friend Cara, Angus Miller a firefighter in San Francisco agrees to do so. But that action entangles all them as well, in something that is more than just the security of data.

Reviewed by @MelancholyRose

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