Ignite: Dark Kings Book 15, Donna Grant

Many times it was said throughout Ignite in various ways that they were feeling "the calm before the storm" and that was the prevailing feeling of the book too.  For all the explosiveness in V from Dragonfire, the lusty loner of previous books, the V here was subdued, isolating himself, and a very different V from any version of him previously encountered.  Claire was at turns melancholy then bright, though not nearly as effervescent as I'd thought her in Smoldering Hunger.  Both had a journey that could only be completed in finding one another.  So rather than the crazy ramping up in this story, and despite the implications of the title, this was a calmer story with maybe one "dramatic" moment and quite a few surprises.

Some of those surprises were just nuggets of information that were merely surprising because they weren't expecting it.  One surprise reveal was a bit lackluster and anticlimactic.  Another, however, had incredible, both positive and negative, implications that were a long time coming, but absolutely unpredictable.  For that bit alone I'm diving head first into the next story to see how it develops.

The quiet yet full and deep feelings during V's confessions were truly touching.  Claire's vacillation from love to uncertainty was less than what I hoped for, but their connection and honesty together was full of forthright feeling and so direct that it made up for it.  There was one part that was only touched on regarding the sword's connection and choice that was astonishing and I truly hope to see more on that and how it plays out.  I knew when we first met Claire that her role wasn't over and even though she's a vital part of Ignite, it's the role she'll play from here on out that I'm excited for.

Okay, so I'll admit that sometimes it feels like we're getting further away from the end than closer to it and a few things are being thrown in that seem to be just to lengthen the series rather than bring answers.  And I'm sure most people who've been with the series since the beginning are just wanting to get to Usaeil's downfall, the threads to be tied off, the dragons to be either brought back or checked in on, and the epic romantic details for Con and for Rhi...but with a handful of stories between now and then, some are pretty much over the whole thing at this point.  I'm not one of them.

For me it's about each and every dragon king we've learned about or is new to us and how they get their mates, each and every detail that deepens the story and betrayal and healing for Rhi, each and every character that crosses over and enlarges the world connecting it all...I'm in it for everything.  But yeah, I'm super anxious to get to the end too.  I'm a sucker for this series and there's almost nothing that could happen that would keep me from coming back for more.

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Every inch of him was molded as if from granite…and her blood ran like fire...

For centuries, V has waited to awaken from his doomed sleep and reclaim his destiny. But this Dragon King—one among a legion of legendary warriors sworn to protect the human race from darkness—must first find a way to win back his sword. Wield its power. And try not to fall prey to his own illicit desires.

Claire may possess the beauty and soul of a goddess but V knows better than to mess with a mere mortal. Still, he instinctively knows that Claire is The One who can help him regain the use of his sword and restore his place at Dreagan. But if she learns the truth about who—and what—he really is, her memories of him would be erased forever. How can V love Claire truly, madly, deeply…and protect her from the forces of fire and darkness that could destroy them both?

The Sinner and the Liar: Seeking Asylum Book 1, Alice Winters

Dark and twisted, not something I expected from this author, yet I couldn't help but truly enjoy the story as I watched Sin and Eastyn battle feelings, deception, angst, and the hard life in their world.  Neither man had a lot of glowing morals to hold them through the tough times, but it was their grit and the passion and compassion they brought out in one another that moved me.  While the story felt quite long because it got bogged down in the dark, hard things a little too often, it wasn't enough to diminish their triumph or my enjoyment.

Sin had a lot of hurt and bitterness within him all buried beneath a shallow grave of apathy.  He says he doesn't care, but the truth is he cares too much and if he were to give in to all those feelings, he'd crumble.  When he "meets" Eastyn it's as if his soul is drawn to him despite knowing that the beautiful young man is an unapologetic liar.  There's something that connects them and when we finally learn the "six degrees of separation" that links them, it's a doozy, I tell you.  Wow...did not see that coming until Eastyn finally started sharing what gave him the mental fortitude to survive.  It's big, heartbreaking.

The banter and snark between them was just as entertaining as their chemistry.  It was definitely a codependent situation as it deepened, but it couldn't truly be anything else under their circumstances.  Despite that, I felt they could really be everything the other person needed to find their peace and freedom.  I was never bored by everything they experienced.  There were a few moments that I thought were a bit predictable and a little over the top, but there was enough going on in the story to distract from that and to keep us revolving around their twisted story.

It's the world around them that we get a sense of, but nothing concrete enough for me to build it in my imagination.  We get quite a bit about this particular city, some about the walls, and definitely enough about the social dynamic between law enforcement and the mob in this city.  What I needed was a more solid world build.  The setup was there, the immediate circumstances were there, but it was missing the rest of the world to give us a clearer picture of why this city was so bad, how it compared to others, what life might be like if escape were truly possible, what the implications would be of life elsewhere...just something to give perspective.  Not that I wanted to get stuck in details that didn't directly pertain to Sin and Eastyn's stories, but just a bit of something to secure their world in my mind.

I'll be back for more from this series for sure.  For me it's because even though the darkness was a departure from her normal style, this author hasn't yet failed to move me in some way.  I'm interested to see where we go next in this world and if the second one improves on our introduction of it.

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Sin is a hard man caught in a crumbling city filled with crime. Drifting through life, he takes on mercenary jobs by day and drinks away the memories of a happier time at night. Life has no color and little direction until he saves a gorgeous young man from a vicious attack. Resisting the determined, feisty, and seemingly innocent young man presents the first challenge Sin has had in ages. Eastyn brings brightness and humor to Sin’s previously dark and grim world, but there’s far more to Eastyn than he lets on.

Eastyn is trapped, a victim of circumstance, and he wants only to find a way out. He gambles everything to bend one dangerous man to his will in order to escape another. Falling in love was never part of that plan, but with Sin, he suddenly has the power to become the person he has always wanted but never dared to be. 

In a fractured city poised between order and chaos, two men find the chance of a love stronger than the evil that surrounds them. But claiming and keeping that love will be the riskiest thing either of them will ever have to do. Because Eastyn is unlike anyone Sin has ever met before, and he might be the very thing needed to save Sin from himself.

Aiden Inspired, Blake Allwood

Strangely, I liked the story but not the actual writing.  Descriptions, dialogue, inner musings, all of them felt slightly wrong but I also couldn't help liking where most everything ended up going.  

Devin's personality really grates more often than not and for all the times when he promised himself he wouldn't be like the previous ranch owner he seems to never grasp the moments where he knows he's acting the same way.  Even knowing he's doing or saying something hurtful or super grouchy he refuses to alter his behavior.  He does eventually come around and tries to make amends, but I'm not sure it's enough for me.

Aiden is a little flighty but he's also very simple.  The life he knows he needs is the same one he wants yet when he's asked questions about possible change or thinks about making that happen it's as if he's in denial and that knowledge isn't what he knows at all.  It's confusing and disappointing to say the least.  It feels like the denial is just a way for the author to cause more potential conflict and make the life change acceptance more powerful at the end.  Doesn't work, by the way.  What I do love about him is the peace and the satisfaction we see all over him while he's working in the barn, the stalls, with the animals, and absorbing everything that's country and beautiful about where he's stranded.

Their separation before the reunion felt a bit forced, like that was the only way a "see what you had when it's gone" realization could happen.  When they finally did come back together I don't know if I'm totally sold on their reconciliation.  I would have liked more between the end and the epilogue so the sweetness and "full-circle" feelings could have a chance to settle and warm me to their permanence.  Overall though, this was a nice story that somehow won me over despite not being a writing style I typically enjoy.

*$3.99 on Amazon

Take Care of You: Taking Care Book 1, Gianni Holmes

Well, this was certainly not what I expected.  I really enjoyed the idea of an older man being the boy and a younger man being the Daddy and I thought most of Owen and Declan's interactions really worked to give both men what they needed.  There were quite a few other issues I had however, and the twist used to cause the biggest drama was at the heart of most of them.  With an interesting premise this story had a lot of potential but I have to be honest and say that I'm heavily leaning toward not finishing the series.

I didn't mind the HFN ending too much, though usually I steer clear of those if I don't have access to the full series, but getting to that ending and then reading the description for Take Care of Me at the end of this book makes me incredibly reluctant to continue.  I'd much rather leave it on the more happy note that has hope and progress written into it than to slog through temptations of infidelity because neither man can balls up and put common sense, communication, and love above pride.  To be fair, the new synopsis doesn't reflect those concerns, so maybe it's a non-issue.

The dynamic was truly interesting and drew me in at the first, but there's a lot to be said for communicating roles, expectations, and hopes beyond the "I want you."  Their brand of D/b had a lot of potential, but there was too much gray area with unclear intentions at the beginning and inappropriate power usage at the end for me to fall in love completely with their dynamic.

It's that abuse of power and selfishness that really disturbs me the most.  The defeatest attitude from Declan, pushing Owen away, and abusing the role of Owen's "Daddy" was more disappointing than I can say.  While I'm not a fan of Owen's reaction to his kids' big secret its consequences pale in comparison to Declan's appalling behavior.

Overall I thought this story had a ton of potential and I was really excited to read this take on a Daddy/boy relationship, but I'm averse to conflicts intimated in the sequel's synopsis.  A few things fell short in the execution and I can't decide if Declan's missteps were intentional to cause trust issues in the coming stories or if it was just poor decision-making on how to create emotional conflict to fabricate angst and interest.  I wouldn't be surprised if I never revisited this series but the lingering affection I do have for what I read came from setting up Owen as the absolutely committed, loving, devoted father.  Without Owen's heart this book would not have held my interest.

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I will never call a man two years older than my sons Daddy. Nope, never gonna happen. 

Until It Does

Owen's not your typical boy .

He's 21 years older.
He's physically bigger.
He has his sh!t together.
And the last of his three kids just left home.
Yet, the moment Declan mentions the word "Daddy", Owen can't stop thinking about it.


Decan's not your typical Daddy.

He's too young.
He's physically not as strong as Owen.
But, he's filthy rich.
He craves pampering Owen.
And, he's not afraid to discipline his Boy when it's needed.

With Declan, Owen's about to experience the finest pleasures of life. When Declan's greatest fear confronts him, will he be able to let his Boy in, or will he walk away to spare Owen?

Dead Wrong: Cold Case Psychic Book 11, Pandora Pine

I was surprised to find some situational similarities to things going on in my own life and I'm sad to say that it made beginning the book quite difficult.  Once I went beyond myself and read for escape into a world I truly enjoy, the Crew gave me the good feels I was hoping for.  There were many instances while reading that I could predict what would happen and quite a few others that surprised me.  I found both elements quite comforting because it was true to the Cold Case Crew formula while also adding a couple surprises to keep it different and interesting.

But Ronan...forever Ronan will be my favorite.  The man he is, the man he has become, to the man he'll grow to be...he has stunned me over and over again.  With so much love, rationality, heart, determination, empathy, tenderness, and understanding he's pretty much the perfect male lead for me.  He's quirky and silly when it's appropriate, he still has a bit of an Irish temper, and all of it is softened by how he shows his love and support and then strengthened by his sheer will.

The villain was a bit predictable and I wish the questions and feelings had been manifest into an actual suspect so they could get to the answer faster so more time could have been spent on Ronan and John.  Their reunion and reconciliation kind of took a back seat to a few too many non-crucial things as well as the overall mystery so I'm hoping that we'll see more of their journey back together as the series continues.

At some moments it felt like the point continually made over and over regarding Ronan's concerns about John wasn't the one that needed that level of repetition.  Instead, less on the possibility of the crime and more on the emotional separation and John's separation from the family he professes to love more than his own life.  I won't lessen the importance of the ramifications of possible guilt because it's definitely a huge deal, I just think that the emphasis on that one issue was a little heavy handed, a little overdone.

Honestly, at the end of the day, there's something addicting about this series.  Even when I had my doubts a few books ago about where the individual characters were going I couldn't give up on them as a whole.  Their family is growing in so many ways, each person is gaining depth, each trial strengthens and reveals a new facet to them.  I'm definitely eager for more.

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Cold Case Sergeant, Ronan O’Mara, is set to return to work at the Boston Police Department after the birth of his first child, when a knock at the door brings back a part of his past he thought was gone forever: his father, John. The only thing that Ronan knows about his father is that the man was a no-good drunk who was gone from Ronan’s life before his first birthday. Now that John is back, all he wants is a chance to tell his side of the story. Not surprisingly, Ronan wants no part of this reunion.

No one is more stunned by this turn of events than psychic, Tennyson Grimm. He’s been in contact with Ronan’s deceased mother, Erin, since he and Ronan started working together. Surely if there was more to the story about Ronan’s father, Erin would have told him. Caught between a rock and a hard place, Tennyson is left to navigate the minefield of this complicated father-son relationship, while trying to support the man he loves.

When John O’Mara finally gets the opportunity to explain where he’s been for the last thirty years and, more importantly, why he stayed away, will Ronan and Tennyson jump in to help him solve the decades old crime that kept him away from his family? Or will Ronan stand by what he’s always believed to be the truth about his father? A truth that might just turn out to be dead wrong.

Jon's Downright Ridiculous Shooting Case: Jon's Mysteries Book 1, AJ Sherwood

In a word, silly.  More enjoyably silly than absurd, Jon and Donovan's navigation of crazy, paperwork, and relationships amused me more often than not and drew me in to their dynamic.  I found a lot of the story really interesting despite the predictability of the villain and their situation as well as the inappropriate cultural stereotypes.  The idea of an anchor and the sweetness of Donovan to match the snarky Jon really drew me in and kept me invested in the story.  I found myself snickering out loud and also trying to make guesses as to the premise for their continued investigative shenanigans.

So the frustrations first.  Cultural stereotypes for the win...or more like for the eyes rolling so far back they got stuck.  This dropped the rating by a full star.  There were so many descriptions that made me cringe hard.  I'm not sure why they were included at all.  Not only did they not enhance the telling of the story, they made a mockery of diversity rather than enrich the community in the story.  The villain was pretty obvious from the outset and there were many glaring clues that Jon glossed right over.  It was difficult to see him get a weird feeling or know what was going on but then let the moment slip by without intelligent connections being made or taking action.

I quite enjoyed the budding relationship.  The "brightness" of Donovan and his family was an interesting moment and I found myself wanting to know all of them.  I'd like to see Jon get more involved with them to find a softening and a foundation on which to base his and Donovan's relationship.  There's a lot of dysfunction in his own and he could use the honest goodness of his anchor's family.  Jon's reliance on Donovan painted a picture of all that Jon was missing up to this point and I really, really liked them together.

As for the criminal/case aspect, it was definitely predictable from the outset.  What intrigued me most though, was the small building blocks for additional cases that will likely come up in the future.  Rather than setting up a story for a crime to solve and only one crime, it felt a bit more genuine that there were pieces of multiple cases building in the background along with the progression of the featured crime.  That small element is quite important for a good continuation of the series and I'm interested to see where we go next.

*$4.99 on Amazon or FREE on KU!

A psychic without an anchor. A student in trouble. A shooter on the loose.

I’m Jonathan Bane, a licensed psychic who consults for the police. I routinely help the police put the bad guys away and, for that reason, the criminal world doesn’t like me much. People like to take a swing at me, or go stabbity, or try for a gun. It makes for interesting times. My psychic ability prevents me from handling anything electronic—and I do mean ANYTHING, I fry it in seconds—so calling for help isn’t always a possibility. 

I need an anchor, a partner, but I’m resigned: it’s just wishful thinking.

At least, I thought so until he walked through the door.

Donovan Havili looks like a thug and has the soul of a superhero. He shines so bright in my vision it’s like watching a supernova. He definitely has the right mindset and skills for this crazy job. But asking anyone to take me on long-term is a bit much. And now we’ve got multiple cases to handle, a Chinese exchange student falsely accused who needs our help, and someone taking random shots at me. It’s a bit much for any new guy to handle and I’m half-afraid that my new partner will run for the door.

But in Donovan Havili, the criminal world has met its match. And maybe, just maybe, I have as well.

Ageless Fate: A Collection of Strays Book 1, Toby Wise

This whole story was so dang cute!  There were so many things that I completely didn't expect and was charmed most of the way through.  I will say though, that it feels like we're jumping into the series at book two rather than book one.  Quite a bit of background information is missing so I had a hard time connecting to the main characters as individuals.  The whole brood, however, was quirky, funny, snarky, mis-matched awesomeness.  I'm absolutely in for more of the series.

I adored the family dynamic and all the different types of shifters.  For Dakota to manage as a single father to a whole mess of children and have each of them love him so intensely in their own ways was absolutely admirable.  I would have liked to see more of his parenting from the genesis.  We don't find out why or how he "collected" his children really and that big piece of how they all came to be together wasn't given enough attention.  Granted, this story is mainly about the romantic relationship and Charlie is coming in quite late to the party, but still, I would have liked a lot more background.

What impressed me the most were the MC's and their portrayal of non-typical alpha/omega roles.  Each found their ideal match in someone who had their genetic role by genetic default and yet their personalities were atypical versions of those roles.  Dakota was a strong, determined, firm omega who loved deeply and openly.  He was all that hearth and home are truly meant to be.

While it didn't feel like a satisfying standalone due to the lack of personal histories, the overall story was absolutely charming and I'm eager to find out how each of the children find and learn to keep their mates.

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Never in my wildest dreams did I think I would find my true mate in my ER. He’s handsome and everything I’ve ever wished for in a mate but will my age be a problem for him? And most importantly, what will the houseful of strays I’ve adopted think of Charlie? ~Dakota

Waking up in the hospital was not on my list of things to do but finding my true mate makes it worth the pain. My father pushed me out of our pack when I wouldn’t conform to his mold of what an alpha should be like but Dakota shows me I’m worthy of his love just the way I am. Not everyone in my instafamily welcomes me with open arms and I can’t help but wonder, ‘Will I ever find acceptance?’ ~Charlie

Copper Creek: Sawyer's Ferry Book 3, Cate Ashwood

Ack!! I was absolutely not expecting this to be so funny, but it was! Frankie is adorable and sassy and always moving. His "generous gifts" to Barrett pretty much set the tone for their dynamic and even though it takes a little bit for Barrett to come to terms with his newly discovered facets of sexuality, once they're all in, they're all in...pun intended =].

There was so much tenderness and discovery here that showed that there's so much more to them beyond the bedroom proving that they're utterly perfect for one another despite all their differences. I love the opposites-attract trope and Copper Creek definitely did this one justice. For all their disparities there was a commonality in their affections that gave a solid foundation to all their romantic endeavors and a deeper undertone to their sexy times. I adored them together!

Sometimes you get a lot of angst from guys who hadn't been with other males up to the point they meet their person and while there was definitely some thought and a little bit of turmoil, there was no unnecessary dragging out of any angst. I do wish there were more background on Barrett. I wanted to learn so much more about him. I mean, I truly enjoyed him and all his muscly sweetness but a lot of things about him were kind of vague, like his family. In the end though, it's really difficult not to love him despite that so this isn't really a complaint.

And to avoid spoilers I won't go into too much detail about the end and I'll just say that the epilogue wasn't detailed enough and jumping forward in time missed a great opportunity to answer questions, build depth, and satisfy my need for more of Barrett and Frankie together. Such a great story!

*$3.99 on Amazon or FREE on KU!

Family Camp: Daddy Dearest Book 1, Eli Easton

Despite the complicated circumstances surrounding Geo and Travis individually, it's the tender and passionate way they can't stay away from one another that simplifies everything to one thing: love will find a way.  Their dynamic is all kinds of goofy, sweet, and sexy, but when you add in the two precious children, I'm done for.  I really liked how the story was kept simple and focused and there weren't a ton of huge obstacles or excess surreptitious villains waiting in the wings to further complicate things.  At its core, it was all about family and love.

I think the most touching thing for me was watching Geo's interactions and expressions with his kids through Travis' eyes.  To see so much yearning, so much love from someone who always wanted a family and despite being single, he chose two troubled children knowing they were always meant to be his was beyond moving.  His dorkiness was eye-roll worthy, but it totally worked in the end because of the kids' ages, but also because it seemed so genuine.  It didn't hurt that it also worked to charm the rugged ball player.

Travis was defensive because of his past and it prolonged his bad attitude toward Geo.  Just when it was on the brink of becoming too much for me, he shoved his foot into his mouth when he confronted Geo and then proceeded to have his eyes opened and his prejudice against the man demolished.  It was a very short confrontation and the resolution was pretty much there and gone in a blink.  Seemed a little odd, but quite a few of their conversations were led by Geo's goofy, adolescent way of verbal expression.

When Travis' big secret came to light it was pretty predictable, but not badly done.  I loved all the support that came from his family and random campers as well as how they all came to his defense even when he wasn't around to see it.  Such a strong family dynamic that I really loved reading.  Geo and Travis had their ups and downs, but with an eye to love and family, it all came together and remained a lighthearted story of family, unconditional love, and using both those things to heal and find the peace of freedom.

*$3.99 on Amazon!

When Geo signs up for Family Camp, he envisions nature hikes, s’mores, and a chance to win over his recalcitrant new foster kids, Jayden and Lucy. He’s tried to become a dad for so long, and he hopes the three of them can be the family he’s always wanted. What he doesn’t anticipate is the prickly and gorgeous camp counselor who constantly comes to his rescue.

Travis spends a week every year at Camp Evermore, the camp his adoptive parents own. As a pro baseball player, his presence guarantees a full campground and excited campers. He has one rule: never, ever mess around with anyone at camp. His profession demands he stay in the closet. But one sweet and funny new dad is about to test all his resolve.

Sparks fly for Geo and Travis, and not because of the nightly campfire. Having been a foster kid himself, Travis is drawn to Geo’s sincerity and big heart and to his kids. The four of them just fit. But will this be a summer romance? Or can they find a way to be a family long after Family Camp is over?

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Damaged Heart, S.C. Wynne

I can't say this was my favorite book by this author.  There are many others of hers that I truly enjoy but I felt this one fell short of the mark.  With an interesting premise and hints of bonds healing someone suffering, I was eager to read the story.  Where it fell short was in character development and the relationship progression.  Potential was high, execution was relatively low.

Cory has a lot of emotional baggage and trauma.  I ached for his situation and even though I didn't connect with his character at all, I could see how he would behave the way he did.  Rhys was a bigger draw because he was a brighter, lighter character that had the potential to draw Cory from the darkness of his past, but there were quite a few things he did that left ambiguity rather than a clear path for Cory to follow.

Without giving anything away, I'll just leave my frustration with both men by saying that neither man resonated with me and their actions, while some were understandable, most of them were confusing, maddening, and absolutely unpleasant.  The overall story suffered because of the characters but I definitely enjoyed the setting and the sweet gestures and confessions that were included.  They saved the story from being dismal and distasteful, instead it was merely disappointing.

*$3.99 on Amazon

Cory Johnson fled Bayville as an eighteen-year-old following the suicide of his father. He’s estranged from his abusive mother and has made a life for himself as a successful lawyer in Los Angeles. While Cory’s career is rewarding, he’s unable to connect to people because of his upbringing.

When Cory’s mother dies he grudgingly returns to his hometown to handle the estate. Rhys Tucker owns the construction company that is going to renovate Cory’s childhood home. Rhys has harbored a crush for Cory since they were in high school. When Cory comes home, Rhys takes that opportunity to get close to Cory. Or at least try to.

Their physical chemistry is undeniable, but will Cory ever be able to have a real relationship with Rhys after being so emotionally scarred by his past? Can a heart as damaged as Cory’s every really come home?

Arctic Sun: Frozen Hearts Book 1, Annabeth Albert

 

With incredibly difficult pasts individually it's no wonder that together they had trouble.  River and Griff had chemistry, that's for sure, and when they finally acted on it there was all kinds of steam and promise.  It didn't stay promising, however, when insecurities and frustrations were tested by pressure and weakness.

I struggled with this story, but was also very moved.  The topics were so difficult to tackle and I appreciated the way Annabeth wrote about them.  Eating disorders and sobriety are tricky because the responses, triggers, and causes vary from person to person and can even vary throughout the day for some.  What I appreciated most was that the necessary recovery and plans for dealing with it in the future were up to each individual and they didn't end up in a codependent mess trying to save one another from bad decisions.  It took a very hurtful day together to see that things couldn't continue as they were.  Only after they got themselves, mostly River, back on track with healthy habits and support did they make their way back to one another.

This story was tough to get through as it wasn't what I expected, it was better, but it had to hurt for it to be truly appreciated.  Griff and River worked it out after hard work, painful adjustments, and a whole lot of honesty.  A rocky beginning, a devastating middle, and a triumphant ending marked this story and I am so on board for it and the rest of the series.

*$4.99 on Amazon

He’s built a quiet life for himself in Alaska. But it doesn’t stand a chance against the unrelenting pull of a man who’s everything he shouldn’t want.

Ex-military mountain man Griffin Barrett likes his solitude. It keeps him from falling back into old habits. Bad habits. He’s fought too hard for his sobriety to lose control now. However, his gig as a wildlife guide presents a new kind of temptation in superhot supermodel River Vale. Nothing the Alaskan wilderness has to offer has ever called to Griffin so badly. And that can only lead to trouble…

River has his own methods for coping. Chasing adventure means always moving forward. Nobody’s ever made him want to stand still—until Griffin. The rugged bush pilot is the very best kind of distraction, but the emotions he stirs up in River feel anything but casual, and he’s in no position to stay put.

With temptation lurking in close quarters, keeping even a shred of distance is a challenge neither’s willing to meet. And the closer Griffin gets to River, the easier it is to ignore every last reason he should run.