Protective Assignment - Janie Crouch (HI #2310 - Sept 2025)

Series: Warrior Peak Sanctuary (Book 1)
 
He's not the man he used to be
He's the man she needs now
 
Cade Thatcher is on his way to a mountain retreat when he picks up a hitchhiker. Skittish and withdrawn, River Robertson is obviously running from something. Cade is supposed to be rehabilitating from injuries he endured in Afghanistan, not taking on new duties. But he feels responsible for River, and his instinct to protect her overrides his fears about what he can do with his shattered body. When the cult leader obsessed with River tracks her down, Cade will push himself to the limits to keep her safe.
 
Great start to the new series, which centers on a rehab facility in North Carolina. Cade is former military, recovering from injuries he received in Afghanistan. His brother, Carter, works at Warrior Peak and invited Cade to continue his recovery there. He isn't sure what the future holds for him, and this will give him a chance to explore his options. On an isolated road, he encounters a young woman hitchhiking. With an intensifying storm, he picks her up and takes her with him to Warrior Peak.
 
River is on the run, staying as far from people as possible. She is about at the end of her rope when she accepts Cade's offer of a ride. Wary of the welcoming people at Warrior Peak, she hesitates to stay.
 
I liked how the people at Warrior Peak welcomed River. They realize that something is going on, but are willing to wait for her to open up. I loved Cade's protectiveness and his efforts to make her feel safe. I liked watching River come out of her shell as her sense of safety increased, allowing her to form friendships with Hannah and the others. I enjoyed watching Cade and River grow closer, wary of trusting their feelings, but unable to deny them. I liked seeing them look at the future possibilities together.
 
The suspense was good. We learn early on that River escaped from a Florida cult leader who was determined to make her his wife. Keeping to herself is the only way she sees to avoid discovery. We see her hope that she has finally succeeded, only to discover that the cult has expanded its operations while the leader continues to hunt for her. The suspense intensified when local law enforcement identified the new criminal activity. I was glued to the pages when River was abducted. Cade's worry and desperation to find her leapt off the page. The nail-biter final confrontation had a twist I didn't expect but loved. 

Travis - Josie Jade (Calamitte Jane Pub - Apr 2026)

Series: Warrior Security (Book 4)
 
Travis Hale has four computer monitors, a caffeine addiction, and zero interest in human interaction.
 
He hasn't left his compound in two years. Whatever the CIA did to him—or made him do—sent him underground, literally, into a Montana bunker disguised as a ranch house where the surveillance system is military-grade and the man who once ran field ops now doesn't leave his own driveway.
 
Or so everybody thinks.
 
He's vital to Warrior Security operations from within his fortified walls. He'd die for them and knows the feeling is mutual. But even his brothers-in-arms don't know the truth...
 
When predators slip into the shadows, Travis follows.
 
He fights the battles that never make it to daylight. The system has rules. He doesn't. And no one ever traces anything back to him.
 
It costs him more than anyone knows. So be it.
 
But when a ghost from his past shows up on his doorstep—soft where he's sharp, open where he's guarded—Travis will learn that even men who choose the dark can still step into the light.
 
Fantastic book. Travis fascinated me from his first appearance in the books, and I looked forward to learning more about him. His backstory is heartbreaking. Formerly a CIA agent, he had a romantic relationship with his partner, Naomi. When she died during an operation, he left the agency. The grief and guilt develop into agoraphobia and cause him to lock himself away in his specially built home. He works with Warrior Security when they need his specialized help. Even then, he keeps a certain distance from them. None of them know about Travis's lone missions to protect innocents.
 
Sera is a contract analyst for the FBI, a job she took after her sister's death to find a way to take down those responsible for her death. She is a mathematical genius who can spot patterns that no one else notices. When she assembles information on the child traffickers, her boss at the FBI blows her off and tells her to stick to her assignments. Frustrated, Sera decides to take her data to the one person who might be able to help - her sister's former boyfriend, Travis.
 
I loved how Sera breached Travis's security. His reaction to finding her in his pool was terrific and quite a wake-up call. I liked how he listened to her story, but was frustrated at his initial reaction. Fortunately, his conscience got the better of him, and he was able to redeem himself spectacularly. It also made Sera a guest in his home and a partner in their joint mission to stop the trafficker. I loved their teamwork. Travis said it best: "Sera's mind didn't just fill gaps in my analysis. It worked the way mine did, from a different angle. The two perspectives together produced something neither of us could build alone." I also enjoyed watching Sera become a part of his life, though he fought it all the way. There were deeply emotional exchanges as each opened up about their pasts and the effects on who they are now. There were also some lighthearted moments (frequently involving kittens). The question becomes whether they can let go of their fears enough to build a life together. I loved the ending - it was so perfectly Travis.
 
The suspense of the story kept me hooked from start to finish. Travis's lone excursions, carried out despite the physical effects on him, showed the depths of his commitment to his mission. Sera's determination to do her part to bring down the person responsible for her sister's death led her to take risks that could turn deadly. When they teamed up, the intensity increased, as the bad guys' frustration with the interference reached explosive levels. I cheered when Travis finally confessed to his Warrior Security brothers and asked for their help. The final confrontation was a nail-biter that could have gone wrong in so many ways, and nearly did. I loved the part of the epilogue that got Travis out of hot water - you have to love small towns and how they look out for their own.
 
I loved the involvement of the rest of the men of Warrior Security. It's always great to catch up with the characters from previous books. I love how they are included as logical, vital parts of the plot, not just thrown in willy-nilly. I laughed out loud when Lark showed up with the three kittens, and Travis tried to get out of taking them. But my favorite secondary "character" was Maude, the AI companion that runs Travis's house and his life. I loved her snark, her habit of understatement, and how she looks after Travis. His threats to donate her to various kitchen appliances were hilarious. 

Lyon in Disguise - Reginia Jeffers (Dragonblade - Dec 2025)

Series: Lyon's Den (Book 101)
 
A handsome rake meets his match in a red-headed enchantress who is his enemy!
 
They may be on different sides of the law, but Lord Navan Beaufort is not going to permit that to stop him from protecting Miss Audrey Moreau. Navan has never thought truly to love anyone, but when he laid eyes on the red-headed beauty, his world shifted. Unfortunately, the lady appears to prefer Lord Alexander Dutton to him, though Navan has rarely had the opportunity to speak to her privately. That is, until he saves her from a fire one miraculous night. From there forward, she is his hope. His future.
 
Miss Audrey Moreau depends exclusively on her Uncle Jacobi for a home and protection. The man rescued her from a bayman's plantation in the West Indies when she was five; yet, she well knows the "Marquis of Honfleur's" schemes. She thought once Jacobi was caught, all would be well, but even from his jail, the man means to rain down harm upon her.
 
Can two lost souls find happiness together, when everyone in whom they had previously placed their trust have left them alone in the world?
 
This is the third book in a miniseries set in the larger Lyon's Den world, with the events of the books overlapping and told from differing viewpoints. There is one mystery running throughout the series, with an additional mystery that concludes in each book. The overarching mystery begins in the first book with the shooting of Lord Duncan and the efforts of his six adopted sons to discover who and why. It may or may not have something to do with an investigation into the flood of counterfeit notes happening in London. Mrs. Dove-Lyon is only peripherally involved, as the shooting happened at the Lyon's Den, where Lord Duncan enlisted her help in the investigation.
 
The investigation has focused on a man claiming to be a French marquis, his daughter, and his niece. As a result, Lord Duncan and his sons have set up a constant surveillance of the Frenchman's residence. One of the watchers, Lord Navan Beaufort, finds himself drawn to the niece, Audrey. He met her once before beginning the surveillance and hasn't been able to forget her. As he witnesses more of her uncle's treatment of her, his protective instincts awaken. I enjoyed watching their clandestine friendship develop. Audrey is both naïve and worldly, as her tragic past reveals, yet despite everything, she still wants to believe in people's goodness. Navan, on the other hand, is rather cynical and has the reputation of a rake. The focus on the Marquis reveals his involvement in the counterfeiting scheme. The subsequent investigation becomes dangerous before it is resolved, and several incidents kept me glued to the pages until it was resolved.
 
After the danger passes, Navan learns the truth about Audrey's past. I laughed out loud at the scene between Navan and his "brother" Alex. The strain doesn't stop Navan from pursuing Audrey and gaining her hand. But Navan still has things to learn about relationships, and manages to put his foot in it when he takes his new wife to his lands in Ireland. His behavior exacerbates Audrey's fears of abandonment, and it takes desperate action by her to open his eyes to the truth. Matters become complicated by the ongoing danger posed by the counterfeiting scheme and a shocking confrontation and revelation. There is another hint in the mystery of who shot Duncan that leads into the next book in the series.
 
Overall, I enjoyed this book. However, there was far more overlap than I expected. There were times when I felt I was reading a regurgitation of the previous book instead of something new.

 

Hot Nights with the Paramedic - Carol Marinelli (HMED #1509 - Jan 2026)

The hottest mistake of her life?

 
Obstetrician Monica Hamilton loves her job, yet with every tiny baby she delivers, she longs for her own even more. When she's poised to explore single motherhood, it's terrible timing to notice sexy Argentinean paramedic Luke Arias. All he can promise is no strings and scorching hot nights. He's already had to bring up his orphaned siblings -- children are 100 percent off his agenda. Usually cautious Monica is powerless to resist Luke's charisma…but will their temporary fling break her heart or unlock everything she's ever wanted?
 
Good story. Monica is an OB doctor, and Luke is a paramedic. They met when Luke brought a pregnant accident victim to Monica's hospital. The connection between them happened quickly, though neither wanted to admit it. After several professional encounters, they decided to spend time together "just for fun." It doesn't take long for their attraction to become something more, but there are obstacles. Monica yearns for a child of her own, while Luke is equally adamant that he doesn't want children.
 
Both are dealing with some heavy emotional baggage. Monica's best friend, Jess, has been in a coma for three years and is approaching her final days. Her grief for her friend becomes complicated by the actions of Jess's husband. Luke raised his twin siblings after their parents died when the twins were twelve, and isn't interested in going there again.
 
I enjoyed the development of Monica and Luke's relationship. I especially liked Luke's sensitivity and care for Monica as she navigated Jess's passing and its aftermath. Luke's relationships with his siblings were great, especially with his brother Daniel. His happiness over Daniel's fatherhood was evident, and I enjoyed the babysitting scenes. But eventually, the differences in Luke's and Monica's dreams for the future put a strain on their blossoming relationship. It takes some time and external encouragement for them to break free of their fears.
 
The epilogue was good, and I laughed at the surprise they had waiting for them.

Cold Hearted Lyon - Tabetha Waite (Dragonblade - Dec 2025)

Series: Lyon's Den (Book 100)
 
Love doesn't mean anything when no one wants it—until they realize they do.
 
Lady Catherine Cecil wants to strike out at her parents for an arranged marriage, but her target turns to the lady responsible for her recent union instead: Mrs. Dove-Lyon, the proprietress of the Lyon's Den. When she contrives an opportunity to tarnish the Black Widow's reputation for matchmaking, Lady Catherine is set on the course.
 
But that is before she meets her intended bridegroom.
 
Baron Benjamin Fontaine is a man Lady Catherine does not trust, nor does she consider him a friend, but a foe. However, when she learns that he also wishes to settle a debt with the Black Widow, she decides it's time for the villains to work together. Already expecting a child Lady Catherine conceived with a former lover, the couple conspires to tackle one of London's most notorious ladies.
 
Together, they have found a common ground, but who will be crowned victorious at the end of the day? Will Mrs. Dove-Lyon's reputation be in tatters at long last? Or will love intercede and prove that it will not be denied, after all?
 
Mrs. Dove-Lyon strikes again, pairing two unlikely people in a match that seems destined to fail but results in a deep love. Catherine's parents are high-ranking nobles with low morals and no interest in their daughter. Believing that what is good for them also applies to her, Catherine embarks on an affair with one of the stable hands and winds up pregnant. Intent on preserving the family name, her parents enlist the Black Widow to find Catherine a husband immediately.
 
Benjamin is the son of a lecher and was on that road himself when tragedy struck. He lost his mother, wife, and unborn son in rapid succession. Haunted by the loss and the poor choices he made, he spent his time drinking and gambling. When Mrs. Dove-Lyon offers him a way out, he reluctantly accepts it.
 
Married the next day, Catherine and Benjamin find common ground in their desire to get back at Mrs. Dove-Lyon. As they settle into married life, they discover that they actually like each other. I enjoyed seeing Benjamin encourage Catherine to make his estate her own and support her as she did so. Meanwhile, Catherine helps him overcome his guilt and set out on the road to making amends. Neither expected the depth of attraction that grew between them, nor the love each was reluctant to admit. I liked seeing them finally show enough trust to share the truth.
 
I smiled when Benjamin hired a detective to investigate Mrs. Dove-Lyon's matches to prove that she was a fraud. The result was no surprise to the reader, though it was something of a shock to him and Catherine. The epilogue was good. 

The Wild Card - Carolyn Brown (Montlake - Dec 2025)

When Lady Luck deals her a roadside diner in small-town Texas, a professional poker player discovers home may be the best win of all.
 
Professional poker player Carla Wilson's luck runs dry in Tucson, leaving her with nothing but an SUV running on fumes and a deed to the Tumbleweed Bus Stop and Diner in small-town Texas. Her plan to sell the café and move on seems simple enough—until she meets the motherly cook who rules the kitchen with an iron skillet and the sunny waitress who treats her like a sister.
 
Then there's Jackson Armstrong. The ex-military heir of a wealthy oil family has green eyes that make Carla forget her cards and a smile that suggests he's playing for keeps. With a pair of matchmaking senior citizens and the café's morning regulars cheering from the sidelines, Carla's wandering soul begins to feel at home.
 
Now she's discovering everything she never knew she needed—true friendship, a place to belong, and a love worth going all in for. Maybe Lady Luck knew exactly what she was doing from the start.
 
Fun book. Carla is a professional woman gambler. After her mom's death when she was eight, Carla traveled the country with her gambler father. By fourteen, she was playing in games herself, and on her own by the time she was sixteen. As the story opens, Carla has lost everything except her SUV, some change, and the deed to a diner in a small Texas town. She plans to sell the diner for what she can get and use the proceeds to continue her chosen profession. The last thing she expects is an instant connection with Rosie the cook and Scarlett, the waitress, and a feeling of belonging she's never had before.
 
I enjoyed seeing Carla settle into life as a diner owner. As a gambler, she developed excellent instincts about people, and I loved watching her interactions with Rosie and Scarlett. The closer she grows to them, the less appealing her former life becomes. The growing trust among them leads to sharing their stories and realizing what they have in common. It isn't all rainbows and unicorn farts, to quote Carla, as there are occasional stresses and dustups, but the undercurrent of support is always there.
 
Jackson was a complication that took Carla by surprise. Handsome, wealthy, and former military, Jackson is in the area for a long-term drilling job. He's immediately taken with Carla. Carla has never had a relationship longer than forty-eight hours, so Jackson's attentions are a whole new experience for her. He has the patience to hang in there while Carla gets used to the idea. There are a few minor road bumps when Carla's independence clashes with Jackson's wishes, but both have the maturity to talk it out. There's a great scene where Carla meets Jackson's parents that initially rouses her fears, but she comes back from it stronger.
 
I liked the underlying themes of women helping each other through situations such as gambling and abuse, grief and loss, and believing in oneself. The romance was good, but the heart of the story lay in the multi-generational friendship among the women characters. The epilogue was a lovely wrap-up to the story. 

The Cornish Lyon - Fil Reid (Dragonblade - Dec 2025)

Series: Lyon's Den (Book 99)
 
Orphaned heiress Miss Georgiana Frampton is in a pickle.
 
Not only has she allowed the handsome, young naval officer who'd asked her to marry him untoward liberties—which left her in a delicate condition that will soon be impossible to hide—he's also had the bad luck to drown at sea. Her aunt, disgusted at her behavior, has thrown her out onto the street. When Georgiana's best friend suggests she should go to the Lyon's Den to request help, off she goes. She's happy to bestow her fortune, or maybe some of it, on a man who will give her unborn child a respectable name. Having been taken advantage of before, she never intends to let her heart rule her head again.
 
Captain Fitzwilliam Carlyon is a lesser scion of a ducal household with no money to his name other than his military pay. When he finds himself with pockets to let and heavily in debt after a night of injudicious gambling at the Lyon's Den, he can hardly believe his luck when Mrs. Dove-Lyon offers him a way out: the rich heiress he's longed for. With no intention of anything other than funding the rakish lifestyle he considers his due, he leaps at the chance to marry Georgiana, despite her looming problem.
 
But the best laid plans can go wildly astray, and their feelings begin to become engaged, although both of them deny this to themselves—until the night of the ball his sister has arranged for them.
 
Georgiana has a problem. After her father's death, she went to live with her reclusive spinster aunt. Despite being socially restricted, she managed to meet and fall for a young naval officer. Now she is pregnant, and the young officer is lost at sea. When her aunt finds out, she kicks Georgiana out of the house. Fortunately for Georgiana, she has come of age and can claim her substantial inheritance. What she needs now is a husband who will give her child a name. At her friend Fanny's suggestion, she goes to Mrs. Dove-Lyon for help.
 
Fitz Carlyon is a British soldier recently returned from duty in Cornwall. Though related to a duke, his only income is his army pay. After a night of gambling at the Lyon's Den, his extensive losses bring him to Mrs. Dove-Lyon's attention. His relief is evident when she offers him a way out of his problem - marriage to a wealthy heiress in need of a husband. He jumps at the chance.
 
I liked both Georgiana and Fitz. Though a bit naïve because of her sheltered life, Georgiana has a good head on her shoulders. Her father trained her well in the family business, and she has no trouble standing up for herself. I loved her honest insistence that Fitz knows her circumstances before they marry. She insists that the marriage be in name only. She won't allow her emotions to take the lead again. Fitz is fine with her rules. He intends to continue his rakish lifestyle.
 
Neither expects to discover that they actually like each other. Their time together shows that they have more in common than they expected, including a simmering attraction. Fitz finds that his former activities no longer hold the appeal they once did. Instead, Georgiana fascinates him, and his feelings for her grow. He decides he wants to woo her, and worries that he won't succeed. I liked how he supported her with his family and her aunt. Georgiana realizes that her previous relationship was more infatuation than love as her feelings for Fitz change. Each is wary of confessing their feelings, afraid they won't be returned. The scene at the ball was terrific as both finally let go of their fears. 

 

Christmas Security - Lisa Childs (HRS #2353 - Dec 2025)

Series: Bachelor Bodyguards (Book 16)
 
They're dodging a killer
And finding each other
 
Biophysicist Dr. Priscilla Pell fears for her life -- and the life of her unborn child. Living in the mansion where she's still unwelcome among her late husband's family, she doesn't know whether the threats are coming from inside or outside. That's why she hires professional security. She's grateful for Blade Sparks's around-the-clock protection, but his constant presence makes it impossible to ignore the effect he has on her. After a Christmas-shopping excursion that should be a distraction takes a lethal turn, Priscilla and Blade can no longer pretend that their relationship is purely professional…
 
Recently widowed Dr. Pricilla Pell vowed to continue her and her husband's research into groundbreaking medications for Alzheimer's and cancer. She lives in the mansion she inherited, as do her late husband's other family members, in a stressful situation. The family thinks she's a gold-digger, but all she wants is to finish her research. She is also pregnant (through IVF) with his child, and is determined to protect his legacy. The insurance company insists on upgraded security, and after some unsettling incidents, Priscilla agrees.
 
Payne Protective Services assigns Blade Sparks to Priscilla's case. Blade is determined to prove himself worthy of this second chance. A man with deep protective instincts, he spent several years in prison after accidentally killing a man he saw abusing a woman. He will do anything to keep Priscilla safe.
 
The initial meeting between Priscilla and Blade was not what either had expected. I liked Blade's reasoning for his actions and the instinct that alerted him to someone watching the house. I laughed at his shock at Priscilla's sudden appearance. Priscilla is a strong-willed woman, and I liked how she ensured she and Blade were on the same page regarding her protection. It bothered me that she wasn't honest with him about the baby until circumstances forced it.
 
The suspense of the story was very good. It was clear from the start that someone was after Priscilla's research and would do anything to get it. There were numerous possible suspects, all of whom had sufficient motive. We get a few passages from the perp's viewpoint, highlighting their frustration and growing desperation. Both Blade and Priscilla make questionable choices that come close to ending badly before the final confrontation brings everything to a nail-biting conclusion.
 
Neither Blake nor Priscilla expected the intense attraction that burned between them. Blake tried to ignore it, unwilling to let the attraction distract him from protecting Priscilla. Priscilla blamed the attraction on pregnancy hormones. She not only accepted it, she also embraced it. But she is also wary of her growing feelings for him, hesitant to trust her judgment after previous disasters. I liked the ending and the way both let go of their fears and embraced the future. 

Christmas Cottage Getaway - Tara Taylor Quinn (HSE #3120 - Dec 2025)

Series: Cottages on Ocean Breeze (Book 3)
 
Christmas, canines and courtship…
 
Dale Wilson's life hasn't been "good" since his beloved wife died -- at least until Millie Monroe moves to Ocean Breeze. Dale and his dog Juice can't help but be drawn to the pediatric nurse. A widow herself, Millie understands not wanting romance. Finding unexpected common ground has given them both a friendship they've craved. Plus, their respective pups have become friends, too! But Dale has a secret -- he's bestselling author WG Gunder. Not something he readily wants to admit to the woman in his heart…and his bed. Perhaps the Christmas spirit can teach him that sometimes happily-ever-after is disguised as a new beginning…
 
A slow-burning holiday romance between two hurting people who lost their spouses way too soon. Millie came to Ocean Breeze two years after unexpectedly losing her husband. She spent those two years burying her grief in her work as a pediatric nurse until she burned out. She rented the cottage from a friend who promised that the neighbors respect each other's privacy. The rental includes dog sitting for the owner's dog, Magic.
 
Dale lost his wife five years ago. He turned his grief into a successful writing career as author WG Gunder. He and his dog, Juice, rarely leave the cabin except for daily runs. He is friendly with the neighbors, but not a joiner.
 
Millie and Dale spend a couple of weeks successfully avoiding each other until they are brought together in a sea turtle rescue. Then they encounter each other while running, just exchanging nods. After another sea animal encounter, a sea lion this time, Dale invites Millie to stop by and try one of his home-brewed beers.
 
This begins a slow-building friendship. Dale and Millie connect over their common ground of loss without pushing for more than they are willing to share. I enjoyed their developing friendship, their honesty about losing the loves of their lives, and that they aren't looking for love again. However, the more time they spend together, the more intense the sparks of attraction grow. They decide to enter into a friends-with-benefits arrangement, with the clear understanding that it will never be more. Of course, as readers, we know how that usually turns out.
 
This is where it turns a little odd. I could see Dale and Millie growing closer, their feelings obvious to anyone looking, yet they continued to insist they were just friends. Then they get it into their heads that since both regret most the loss of being a parent, they should have a baby together. No intention of marrying, just coparenting. It felt a little too pragmatic. Would either of them let go of their fear of loss soon enough to admit the truth? The ending was well done, with an adorable way to reveal their feelings.
 
My favorite characters, however, were not Millie and Dale. The true stars of the book were the dogs - Juice, Magic, and eventually, Briel. The dogs' sensitivity to humans' moods helped ground them and helped them get past the rough moments. I especially enjoyed the scene with Dale and Briel at the end. 

 
 

The Lyon Who Desired Me - Tracy Sumner (Dragonblade - Nov 2025)

Series: Lyon's Den (Book 98)
 
One kiss, one scandal, one dangerously convenient marriage.
 
Lady Louisa Radcliffe has a talent for blowing things up—gardens, greenhouses, and her reputation. When the duke's brilliant, reckless daughter demands a match, she doesn't ask for a titled suitor. She asks for Dominic Beckett.
 
Dom is no safe bet. With ruin in his past and restraint in his present, the last thing he wants is temptation like Louisa. But when one incendiary kiss sparks scandal, he has no choice but to wed her.
 
Marriage was supposed to be practical. Instead, it's the most dangerous gamble of all: falling in love.
 
Louisa has a large dowry and is the daughter of a duke. You'd think that would make her irresistible to the men of Society. However, she has an unusual hobby: she loves experimenting with explosives. Her tendency to blow things up dampens her appeal. She doesn't care what Society thinks of her; she's happy as she is - until her father decides it is time for her to marry. For six months, she has been working with Mrs. Dove-Lyon to find her a match, but the choices are dismal. As the book opens, she informs the matchmaker that she wants Dominic Beckett added to the list. Mrs. Dove-Lyon is horrified. Dominic's reputation as a gambler and a rake makes him unsuitable, but Louisa insists.  She met him when she was a child, and he was kind to her.
 
Dominic is the second son of a viscount. He has dyslexia, which made him a failure in his father's eyes. While words on a page are a mystery, Dominic's ability with numbers lured him into gambling. Unfortunately for him and his family's estate, he was not good at it and left them with enormous debt. He reformed and now tries to live on the straight and narrow, using his ability with numbers in business to make amends. He is quiet and self-effacing, not the scoundrel that Society thinks he is. He has no interest in marriage, but when his matchmaker aunt insists, he agrees to meet Louisa.
 
I loved the two of them together. The sparks fly between them from the start, and when a kiss gets out of control, their marriage is a foregone conclusion.  Dominic likes Louisa just as she is. He supports her scientific activities. He won my heart with his search for the perfect home for them. I loved that he trusted her with his reading difficulty. She repaid that trust in a wonderful scene involving the marriage contracts. In addition to the chemistry that burns between them, their growing respect for each other quickly grows into love, even if neither is ready to admit it.
 
Everything for their future looks promising until one of Louisa's experiments goes wrong. Dominic's fear for her leads to some ill-considered words and an extreme reaction from her. It takes a few days of missing each other to realize how much they mean to each other. I loved Dominic's big moment at the end as he found the right way to apologize. I'd love to see them as secondary characters in a later book so I can see how their lives progress. 

To Uncage a Lyon - Abigail Bridges (Dragonblade - Nov 2025)

Series: Lyon's Den (Book 97)
 
Is love possible when nothing goes according to plan?
 
Although they do not know each other, Lord Timothy Rydell and Lady Elspeth Westridge have something in common: they are happy with the plans for their lives. Timothy is having a grand time exploring the Americas and working with his cousin in business. Elspeth has settled into her life on the shelf, with her Royal Society lectures and her botanical experiments. Neither is interested in marriage or children.
 
Abruptly, both their lives are thrown into disarray. Elspeth's father, frustrated with his daughter's choices, arranges for her to marry a man more than twice her age, leaving her no other option. Timothy, summoned home by his mother for the king's coronation, faces a season of marriage-minded mamas enthralled by his new wealth. In desperation, both turn to Mrs. Bessie Dove-Lyon for help, hoping that the Black Widow of Whitehall can solve their dilemmas—only to discover that she has selected Timothy as one of Elspeth's marriage prospects.
 
Mrs. Dove-Lyon arranges three contests for the contenders—Elspeth agrees to marry the winner. But as the games get underway, Elspeth realizes that her heart is opening to the young explorer, and she begins to pray he will win.
 
Unbeknownst to Elspeth and Timothy, however, another party is manipulating events behind the scenes. And this game has been afoot for an exceptionally long time.
 
I loved the opening chapter/prologue to this book. It shows Elspeth as a child, upset and furious over the death of her hero and the man she wanted to marry. It didn't matter that James Cook (yes, THAT Captain Cook) would be way older and was already married. He was her ideal - an explorer. She states her intention to be an explorer herself, and never marry unless she can find the ideal man.
 
Years later, Elspeth is following her dream, vicariously. She attends travel lectures, studies travelogues, and pursues her interests, doing everything possible to avoid marriage. Her father finally puts his foot down and tells her she will marry the man he has chosen. Viscount Godwin is three times her age and has been married multiple times. Horrified, furious, and desperate, at the recommendation of her best friend, she goes to Mrs. Dove-Lyon for help.
 
Lord Timothy Rydell is the youngest of eleven siblings. At the age of twenty, he accompanied a cousin to America, where he learned the ins and outs of several businesses and became very successful. Six years later, summoned home by his mother to attend the king's coronation, he discovers that she intends to find him a wife among the year's debutantes. On the advice of one of his brothers, he goes to Mrs. Dove-Lyon for assistance.
 
Mrs. Dove-Lyon selects Timothy as one of Elspeth's suitors, surprising them both. Elspeth and Timothy met briefly six years earlier, when Elspeth went to see her best friend, Ella, and her husband off to America. Timothy is Gordon's cousin. It is an introduction that sticks with both of them. They meet again at the Lyon's Den, as Elspeth "interviews" the contenders for her hand. The top two contenders then compete in Mrs. Dove-Lyon's unique competitions to win her hand. I enjoyed the intensity of the contests and the twists that occurred.
 
The scene in Mrs. Dove-Lyon's office after the contest is fantastic. I laughed out loud at Elspeth's revelations and Timothy's surprise. The icing on the cake was the twist engineered by an outsider.
 
I loved the ending and the way Timothy understands his new wife. The rooftop scene was amazing and shows great promise for their future. I'd love to see them make an appearance in a later book.

We Can Again - Lenna Phoenix (Calamitte Jane - Mar 2026)

Series: Silent Journey (Book 3)
 
When a mysterious "astronaut" walks into her favorite bar, art teacher Maya Gershawn does what she does best: creates a perfect one-night fantasy where her lupus doesn't exist.
 
But when Zachary shows up as her new classroom partner—sharing her cramped trailer and watching her every move—Maya's carefully hidden world threatens to shatter.
 
Between her principal's war on her curriculum, her mother's mortifying public crusade about Maya's illness, and Zachary's dangerously addictive presence, Maya's control is slipping. The ferret she rescued during a hurricane might be the only thing keeping her sane.
 
Zachary Becker abandoned Silicon Valley for a teaching dream, but he wasn't prepared for Maya—brilliant, stubborn, and determined to handle everything alone even as her body betrays her. When her secret explodes across social media and lands her in the hospital, Zachary must convince her that love doesn't mean losing herself.
 
A swoony romance about finding someone who sees all of you—even the parts you've been hiding—and loves you not despite them, but because of them.
 
Terrific book. I loved the realistic look at life with a disability. Maya is an elementary school art teacher who also has lupus. Only a few of her closest friends know about her disease; she hides it from the rest of the world. As the book opens, she notices a guy who walks into the bar where she had a drink with a friend. They meet and connect, with Maya calling herself a "world traveler" and Zachary, in the same spirit, claiming to be an "astronaut." No harm, since neither expected to see each other again.
 
Fate has other plans. First, in a hilarious ferret-induced encounter, Maya discovers that Zachary just rented the apartment across the hall from her. Then, barely recovered from that shock, Zachary shows up as the new science teacher. Not only that, but because of hurricane damage to the school, she and Zachary must share a trailer classroom.
 
I enjoyed following the development of Zachary and Maya's relationship. The connection/attraction was there from the moment they met. But Maya is wary after her previous relationship crashed because of her illness, and she's hesitant to risk her heart again. Zachary is a brand-new teacher, having left his high-tech job to pursue a new dream. He's nervous, insecure about his decision, and a little intimidated by Maya's intensity in the classroom. After a slightly rough start, they form a terrific partnership in the classroom, which soon extends to their off-duty hours.
 
Things are not all sunshine and unicorns. The new principal seems to have it out for Maya. He doesn't like her varied curriculum and insists she make changes to her lessons. Someone is leaving her mean notes. Even her mom is pestering her about multiple subjects, not the least of which is something that would expose Maya's disease to the public. All the pressure brings on a flare-up of her lupus, forcing her to confess to Zachary.
 
Zachary won my heart with his reaction. He is kind, gentle, and ready to support her however she needs. His actions are exactly what she needs, carried out without complaint, even as he worries they aren't enough. There is a fantastic scene with his best friend, Tim, who talks him off the ledge. I loved the effect it had on Zachary, and what he did afterward. I loved the changes Zachary's care made in Maya and the difference it made in her life, especially with her mom. The ending was terrific, and the epilogue was a nice touch.
 
I enjoyed the scenes with Maya's friends, the Chronic Pain Crafters. I look forward to reading their books.

As a person with a hidden illness myself, I love books with realistic portrayals. 

 
 
 

The Maid of Sherwood Forest - Sian Ann Bessey (Shadow Mountain - Nov 2025)

Series: McQuivey's Costume Shop (Book 2)
 
Mariah thought Robin Hood was just a legend -- until time pulled her into his world and the outlaw stole her heart.
 
Nothing about Mariah Clinton's passion for archery or her work as a sous-chef in contemporary London prepares her for the moment she's pulled into another time -- and another life. One minute, she's stepping into McQuivey's Costume Shop to rent a medieval gown. The next, she's standing in a castle kitchen in twelfth-century Nottingham -- with no idea how she got there or how to return to modern time. Forced to pose as a kitchen servant, she must draw on ingenuity and courage to survive in a world in which she shouldn't exist. But when her skill with a bow draws the attention of outlaws in Sherwood Forest, she's swept into a conflict that is more dangerous -- and more thrilling -- than she could ever have imagined.
 
Robin Hood has spent years outwitting the Sheriff, protecting the innocent, and keeping his men one step ahead of Prince John's reach. But when he crosses paths with a mysterious archer who shoots like no woman he's ever met, he knows she's hiding something. Her words, her ways, even the fire in her eyes -- none of it belongs in his time. Yet the more she stands at his side, the harder it becomes to imagine Sherwood Forest without her.
 
Mariah is torn between a past she understands in modern-day London and an uncertain future with an outlaw who has stolen her heart. But as the Sheriff's grip tightens and betrayal looms, one truth becomes clear -- some choices are impossible to undo, and love, once found, is not so easily left behind.
 
This book combined two of my favorite things: time-travel romance and Robin Hood. I've been a Robin Hood fan since I was a kid, and read everything I could find on the subject. The author does a terrific job of following the legend while adding her own voice to the story. There are even a couple of nods to the Hollywood versions, one of which made me laugh out loud.
 
Mariah is a modern woman working as a sous-chef in London. In her spare time, she indulges her passion for archery and occasionally participates in medieval reenactments. As the story opens, she heads for a local costume shop to rent a gown for her latest gig. But when she steps out of the changing room, she finds herself in the twelfth-century kitchen of Nottingham Castle. Her shock and confusion are understandable, and she realizes she must think fast to survive in this world until she can find her way back. The first few days are rough, but with the help of a new friend, Ellen, she begins to settle into her new role. Life becomes more interesting when she inserts herself into a "deal" between a butcher and the Sheriff of Nottingham, completely unaware that the butcher is actually Robin Hood in disguise.
 
I loved the author's rendition of Robin Hood. He isn't perfect. He is impulsive, stubborn, and a bit overconfident. But the heart of the man is still the Robin Hood we all know and love. He is honest, protective of the poor, and fiercely loyal to his king and his men. I loved his first meeting with Mariah and the impression she made on him. He was clearly smitten from the start.
 
I loved seeing the story of Robin Hood through Mariah's eyes. From her shock in discovering that Robin Hood is real, to the archery tournament, the rescue, and joining the outlaws in Sherwood Forest, Mariah is all-in to life in the greenwood. The slow development of their relationship comes as they spend time together in conversation and archery practice. Her acceptance by the Merry Men comes easily when she assists in their rescue of Robin, and then uses her cooking skills to improve their lives. There are multiple scenes with various members of the group that are among my favorite parts. But when Robin makes a boneheaded comment, it strains their interactions. It takes an incredulous Little John to point out the error of his ways and set Robin on the right path.
 
I loved the action in the book. It was true to the stories I am familiar with, while adding some details that deepened the realism. It was great fun to see Robin continue to foil the Sheriff. I loved having Mariah as an outstanding archer. It put her on an equal standing with Robin and showcased her strength and independence. Their competitions made me laugh, especially when Robin's men got involved. The ending was intense, and the resolution could have gone very badly if not for one of Robin's good deeds. The final scene had an unexpected twist that wrapped up the story perfectly. 

Duty Unleashed - Dominic Pierce (Calamitte Jane Pub - Mar 2026)

Series: Citadel Solutions (Book 4)
 
Seven years.
 
That's how long Jolly has been Ben Garrison's partner. His constant. The only relationship the Citadel Solutions K9 handler has ever trusted completely.
 
But Jolly's slowing down. Retirement is coming. And Ben has no idea who he is without the dog at his side.
 
He didn't plan on a little boy whispering through the fence. Or the boy's mother, whose warm, chaotic home feels like everything Ben never knew he wanted.
 
Kayla sees past his silence. Her son trusts his dog. And Ben starts finding reasons to stay.
 
But his investigation into police corruption has made dangerous enemies. They've noticed the woman he can't stop watching.
 
The man who's only ever loved a dog is about to learn what it means to fight for a family.
 
Both of them are.
 
Terrific book. It is a little different from the previous books in the series, as the suspense is not as intense throughout the book. It is more of a rollercoaster, with periods of waiting, watching, and investigating, followed by moments of nail-biting action. There is also a sweet romance between two people who weren't looking for it, and between a boy and a dog who need each other.
 
Kayla and her six-year-old son, William, moved to Summit Falls after leaving a toxic relationship. Kayla is trying to get back to the person she used to be before her ex did a number on her self-confidence. William is quiet and withdrawn from the ex's verbal abuse.
 
Ben, his K-9 partner, Jolly, and Ben's Citadel partner, Donovan, have come to Summit Falls ostensibly to help the local police department set up a K-9 program. Their undercover objective is to identify what appears to be corruption in the department - someone is leaking information to drug traffickers. Ben rented the house next door to Kayla because of its fenced yard for Jolly.
 
Ben and Jolly have been together for seven years, and Ben realizes that Jolly is rapidly approaching retirement age. He becomes concerned when he notices Jolly behaving oddly. Kayla also notices odd behavior in William, namely, his parking himself next to the fence between her house and Ben's. I laughed out loud when she realized that William had made friends with Jolly and they were playing games together. She's nervous about telling Ben what's happening, but her words lift a huge weight off his mind. This is the beginning of a beautiful friendship between boy and dog.
 
It is also the beginning of an unexpected relationship between Ben and Kayla. I loved watching them explore their feelings. Ben's longest-ever relationship is with Jolly, and it takes him a little while to recognize what is happening. Kayla is wary because of how her last relationship ended. However, both are honest, caring, and mature. Neither pushes the other past their comfort zone, which makes it easier to be open when they are ready to talk. Kayla falls even harder for Ben when she sees how he treats William. The mud scene was especially moving. I adored how Ben stepped up to help out the school and gave William a chance to shine.
 
The suspense of Ben and Donovan's undercover mission was excellent. You could feel their frustration when raids failed, and their investigations turned up nothing. The training scenes were great and gave extra insight into the various members of the police force. Several turns in the investigation throw suspicion on different people. Just when I thought I had it all figured out, another twist blew everything apart and put Kayla in danger. I was glued to the pages during the final confrontation, wondering how they would get out of it. I loved how it went down.
 
I loved the epilogue and seeing the changes in everyone's lives. I loved Kayla's comment about Ben, who "cooked dinner in my kitchen most nights with the intensity of a man who'd discovered a new mission, methodical, precise, slightly overambitious." William and Jolly together warmed my heart. And Ben's special moment was so him that I couldn't help but grin. 

Second Chance Under the Mistletoe – Kandy Shepherd (HR #4973 – Nov 2025)

Series: Family Reunion in London (Book 1)
 
'TIS THE SEASON -- TO REKINDLE?
 
Natalie is having a nightmare Christmas. Her daughter, Clem, has invited her dad over from Australia -- and Natalie hasn't seen her ex, tycoon Jon, for twenty-two years! They agree for the sake of their daughter to pretend to be the perfect family, but Natalie soon discovers the spark between them never died! After two decades of hurt, can she risk her heart for a second chance -- or is this festive fling just for the holidays?
 
Good holiday-centered second-chance romance. Natalie's perfect Christmas with her pregnant daughter, Clem, has been turned upside down. Clem has recently reconnected with her father and invited him to join them from Australia for Christmas. She hasn't seen him in more than twenty years, since their bitter divorce.
 
Natalie and Jon met when she was eighteen, and he was nineteen, and their love was instant and intense. When Natalie became pregnant, both sets of parents pushed them to marry, even while claiming they were too young. Parental interference, especially from Natalie's mother, sent Jon running to Australia to earn the money to get them out from under her thumb. But leaving Natalie opened the door to lies and misunderstandings that drove them further apart, ultimately leading to their divorce. Natalie married a man her parents approved of, while Jon also moved on to a short-lived marriage.
 
With both Natalie and Jon wanting to support their daughter's wishes, they agree to meet beforehand to reduce the awkwardness of their forced reunion. Neither expected the resurgence of their former attraction, nor the rekindling of the feelings they once shared. I enjoyed seeing them face the past and realize what really happened. Spending time together among London's holiday festivities allowed them to get to know each other as mature adults and explore those growing feelings. But what happens when Christmas is over, and Jon goes back to his life in Australia?
 
A crisis with Clem creates complications and some soul-searching by both Jon and Natalie. I liked their communication and determination to find a way to make their lives work together. I enjoyed the scenes with Clem, especially when she teased them. I'm intrigued by the relationship between Clem and Leo and will add their book to my TBR. 

 

Big Sky Showdown - Juno Rushdan (HI #2338 - Feb 2026)

Series: Ironside Protection Services (Book 3)
 
Can he break a deadly standoff and save her from a mysterious stalker?
 
After a violent assault by a shadowy stalker, Kimi Wheeler is forced to turn to Takoda Yazzie -- the man she secretly loves. Haunted by his past, the Ironside Protection Services investigator has vowed to stay far away from his best friend's sister. But when a disappearance close to home tracks deeper danger to Kimi's door, Takoda's only mission is to keep Kimi from vanishing next. Ignoring their intense desire will take everything they have…even as Takoda and Kimi race toward a terrifying face-off with a killer.
 
Excellent suspense combined with a little sister/brother's best friend romance. Kimi is a former rodeo rider who left the circuit to become a nurse after her brother died in the war. The story opens as she walks home from the grocery store, feeling like she's being watched - again. Then she is attacked by someone trying to take her purse. Without any proof of her stalker, Kimi bites the bullet and asks Jacy's best friend, Takoda, from Ironside Protection Services, for help. Takoda promised Jacy he would watch over Kimi after his friend's death on their deployment. He blames himself for Jacy's death and will do anything to keep his promise.
 
This book kept me hooked from start to finish, thanks to the intense action and suspense and the developing relationship between Takoda and Kimi. He and Kimi have an uncomfortable history. Shortly after Jacy's death, their mutual grief, combined with a little too much alcohol, led to an explosive kiss. Takoda pulled away from her, avoiding contact whenever possible. Years earlier, Jacy had told him Kimi was off-limits, and Takoda tried to keep that promise despite his attraction to her. Meanwhile, Kimi has been secretly in love with him for a long time, and his distance hurts. Thrown together while they investigate, the attraction becomes harder to resist. I enjoyed seeing Kimi break through Takoda's walls and loved his confession at the end.
 
The suspense was fantastic. Starting with the puzzle of who is following Kimi and why, to the attacks, and then her father going missing, the twists and turns kept me guessing right to the end. The growing intensity as they closed in on the truth kept me glued to the pages, leading to a nail-biter of a final confrontation. The surprise revelation at the end was not what I expected, but I loved it. 

The Cowboy's Convenient Wife - Carol Arens (HH #1887 - Nov 2025)

A cowboy in London
…and a deal at the altar?
 
When his English business partner dies, Montana rancher Boone Rawlins becomes guardian of the man's little girl, and heir to their family property in London. So when a storm destroys the ranch, they cross the Atlantic to start a new life!
 
Penniless Lady Ambrin is stunned when a real-life cowboy arrives on her doorstep. But she quickly comes to her senses when she discovers her dear brother has left Boone her house -- and that he wants to sell it to fund a new farm! Ambrin's determined to keep her home and her precious niece. Will a convenient marriage be the solution…or a whole new predicament?
 
This was a lovely blend of the author's Western romances and her more recent Regency/Victorian books. Boone is a rough-and-ready rancher who partnered with an Englishman on a Montana ranch. When that partner passed away, Boone became the guardian of the man's orphaned little girl, Marigold, and inherited the man's London home. When a blizzard destroys the ranch, Boone and Marigold head to England to start fresh. The last thing Boone expected was to find the house occupied by his partner's sister - a woman he didn't know existed!
 
Ambrin ran the household while her brother, Grant, went off on his American adventure. He was only supposed to be gone for two years, and it has now been five, and the money he left for her is stretched thin. Her only option is to marry a wealthy man. That becomes critical when Boone arrives and informs her of his ownership.
 
I ached for both Boone and Ambrin. Both feel betrayed by Grant's secrecy. Ambrin is about to lose the only home she has ever known and has nowhere to go. Boone can't sell the house out from under her, but needs the money to fund his new farm. I liked Boone's protectiveness. He's a good man at heart and wants to ensure Ambrin's safety and happiness. I enjoyed his efforts to help her find a husband.
 
I had a little harder time liking Ambrin. She's so stubborn about the house, refusing to recognize Boone's rights and trying to force him to keep it. I did like her immediate connection with Marigold and her determination to raise her. When Boone proposes they marry, she fights the idea as long as she can.
 
I enjoyed watching Boone and Ambrin's relationship develop. Their initial anger at the circumstances slowly gives way to acceptance. Sparks flare between them, leading Boone to consider marriage to Ambrin as a viable option. Convincing her isn't easy, as she stubbornly resists the path her heart wants to go. I liked their move to the farm and watching them grow closer. Just as it seems things will work out, a twist awakens Boone's guilty feelings and leads to a painful decision driven by his growing love for Ambrin. Her eye-opening self-realization comes almost too late, but culminates in a fantastic reconciliation scene.
 
Home and family were underlying themes in this book. Boone was looking for a new place to make a home and family with young Marigold. He yearned for the same happiness he'd had back in Montana. Ambrin also wanted a home, a family, and a man she could love.

 

A Secret Between Friends - Christine Rimmer (HSE #3155 - Apr 2026)

Series: Bravo Family Ties: Next Generation (Book 7)
 
Their love was put to the test. And it's positive!
 
Riley Thompson was happy being Josh Bravo's secret lover. But now she's pregnant! And that's how Josh's ex pressured him into marriage. Plus, after tragically losing the love of her life, Riley isn't looking for love or wedding bells. Still, she'll happily co-parent with her best friend. Now all she has to do is find a way to tell him.
 
The best thing that came out of Josh Bravo's marriage is his son -- and his divorce. Riley has been there as a listener and a lover. But when she reveals they're expecting, Josh bristles. It's not the baby that rattles him -- it's the realization he has feelings for his best friend. Now all he has to do is find a way to tell her.
 
Terrific friends-to-lovers story. Josh and Riley are best friends and have been since second grade. Their five-year-old sons are inseparable. Neither expected a casual kiss to explode into an attraction neither could resist. So, they became secret lovers - friends-with-benefits - for as long as it feels right. Neither is interested in marriage. Josh's ex is still trying to get him back, and he's not interested. Riley lost her husband shortly after their son was born and has no desire to risk her heart again. Both are happy with what they have.
 
Then Riley discovers she's pregnant. First, she must tell him. She's worried about his reaction. Then she needs to fend off all the well-meaning advice telling her that they should get married. The news surprises Josh, but not nearly as much as the realization that he's thrilled with the idea. As the idea of fatherhood settles in, Josh also realizes that his feelings for Riley are more than just friendship.
 
I loved watching the changes in Josh and Riley's relationship. Josh is so sweet in the way he watches out for Riley. The scenes after her fall were awesome. He hopes that with patience and understanding, he can overcome Riley's fears. I ached for his pain and frustration as she resisted his efforts. Riley frequently frustrated me. She suspects she's falling in love with him, but is in deep denial. She's afraid that if she admits it, she will open herself up to another devastating loss, so she pushes him away. I loved the ending and seeing Riley overcome her fears.
 
I loved the two little boys, Shane and Dillon. They were adorable, but also realistic, with the occasional disagreement and five-year-old challenges. Seeing other Bravo family members is always a pleasure. I thought Josh's ex-wife, Lenore, would be a problem, but she surprised me. 

Danger Zone - Cindi Myers (HI #2345 - Mar 2026)

Series: K-9 Avalanche Rescue (Book 1)
 
Can two K-9s and their handlers
rescue a kidnapped child in the snowy wilderness?
 
When a young boy is abducted from a Rocky Mountain ski resort, Lily Alton and her K-9 join a dangerous search-and-rescue mission. Ski patrol captain Scott Linden doesn't think Lily is ready to become part of his elite team. But as they battle the elements together, Lily shows incredible strength under fire…and an unlikely attraction blooms. With their survival skills put to the test, Scott and Lily track a killer through treacherous terrain in a frantic race to find the missing child before it's too late.
 
Fantastic start to the new series! I really must start these books earlier in the day because I can't put them down once I start, and end up staying up way too late. This one pulled me in from the beginning, thanks in part to an adorable avalanche rescue dog named Shelby. I loved the behind-the-scenes look at what ski patrols and avalanche rescuers do. It is far more involved and intense than I realized. The author's research into the subject shines, as does her respect for the jobs they do.
 
Lily and Shelby are new to the resort's ski patrol team, and Lily finds the going a little rough. The ski patrol captain, Scott, appears to have taken a dislike to her, his gruff attitude making her wonder what she did wrong. She has no idea that Scott's gruffness is his defense against the attraction he feels toward her. The friction begins to dissipate as they work together. Learning that both have lost loved ones in avalanche accidents creates an unexpected bond. However, exploring their growing feelings takes a back seat when a nine-year-old guest goes missing.
 
The suspense of Jackson's disappearance was well done. Lily has a personal connection to the boy that intensifies her determination to find him, along with a couple of events that aroused her suspicion about his disappearance. Lily and Scott, with their dogs, are part of the team searching for him. An approaching storm complicates the search, trapping Lily and Scott in an overnight stay in the woods. Hopes rise the next morning when they spot ski tracks, only to be dashed by an avalanche that may have caught Jackson in it. I liked Lily's faith that Jackson escaped.
 
Lily and Scott's continued search is a rollercoaster of hope and fear. I was on the edge of my seat as they closed in on their goal, only to find that someone was determined to stop them. The motivation behind Jackson's disappearance upped the urgency to find him before it was too late. A twist at the end confirmed my suspicion about one of the characters and made a nail-biter of a final confrontation.
 
I liked the ending and seeing Lily and Scott ready to see where the future takes them. The epilogue was a nice follow-up to Shelby's training and Jackson's recovery from his ordeal. I'm looking forward to the next book in the series.