If I could give this book more stars than five, I would gladly give it. This is hands down in my best of 2023 shelf.
First, this is a love story. One between to unlikely characters that in different circumstances may have never met or clicked. The siren in the pool, the sassy gofer and the confident author are all sides of Mila. Nicholas has the chance to meet all three and falls for the entire package. Although opposites–one who is in the spotlight and the other in anonymity– their connection is real and deep. Their hearts connect and it's a beautiful storytelling.
While romance is in the forefront and primary in the story, the other themes are equally important. The subject of acceptance and everyone deserves a HEA is well written with sensitivity. Mental health awareness is important to me and part of my everyday life. Ms. Moreland took the time to not only pull from personal experiences of a dear friend, but have a bipolar sensitivity reader and mental health professionals guide her story to be the best representation. For me, as a mental health advocate, having this representation in a positive light made me grateful Melanie Moreland wrote a HEA story for them.
This is also the end of interconnected three-series. While this book can be read as a standalone or as part of ABC Corp series, the author gives readers for standalone, just enough information without overtelling and fans of all three series cameos to love. The characters provide entertainment and depth. Before I forget - the audiobook is perfection! John Lane and Maxine Mitchell nail the performance.
If you cruise Goodreads for other reviews, check out Jo Reads Romance. She said everything I felt and has it in better words than I. https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
It's brilliant romance storytelling with relatable characters, deep themes, spicy scenes we dream of, and a book worth re-reading again and again. I cannot recommend this book enough.
I beta read and a member of Moreland Books Inc team
First, this is a love story. One between to unlikely characters that in different circumstances may have never met or clicked. The siren in the pool, the sassy gofer and the confident author are all sides of Mila. Nicholas has the chance to meet all three and falls for the entire package. Although opposites–one who is in the spotlight and the other in anonymity– their connection is real and deep. Their hearts connect and it's a beautiful storytelling.
While romance is in the forefront and primary in the story, the other themes are equally important. The subject of acceptance and everyone deserves a HEA is well written with sensitivity. Mental health awareness is important to me and part of my everyday life. Ms. Moreland took the time to not only pull from personal experiences of a dear friend, but have a bipolar sensitivity reader and mental health professionals guide her story to be the best representation. For me, as a mental health advocate, having this representation in a positive light made me grateful Melanie Moreland wrote a HEA story for them.
This is also the end of interconnected three-series. While this book can be read as a standalone or as part of ABC Corp series, the author gives readers for standalone, just enough information without overtelling and fans of all three series cameos to love. The characters provide entertainment and depth. Before I forget - the audiobook is perfection! John Lane and Maxine Mitchell nail the performance.
If you cruise Goodreads for other reviews, check out Jo Reads Romance. She said everything I felt and has it in better words than I. https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
It's brilliant romance storytelling with relatable characters, deep themes, spicy scenes we dream of, and a book worth re-reading again and again. I cannot recommend this book enough.
I beta read and a member of Moreland Books Inc team
Writing this review feels like letting go of these men. I mean Melanie Moreland gave them all the HEA they deserved with the women who are quiet, amazing strength. Sigh and oh so very swoony.
I know I called out and said Damien was my favorite. Then this sweet, artistic soul who can cook like a dream, and makes the perfect cup of coffee, walks into my Kindle. Oh and damn the man with an accent. But don't be fooled. Egan is the definition of alphamellow. His picture is right next to the word in Websters *nods heads dramatically*. He is protective, and a force to be reckoned with - pure alpha. But for the heroine, loves her fiercely and wants the best for her.
Let's talk story -
Melanie Moreland weaves the MCs back stories to bring the whys on relationship to the forefront. But the past has a way of causing trouble and the value of true friends.
Once again, Melanie Moreland creates a world with romance as the center with suspense swirling around for a edge of your seat can't put down story. This is a series to binge from start to finish.
A must read recommendation.
PS: You need to read the bonus epilogue *chef kiss* perfection.
I know I called out and said Damien was my favorite. Then this sweet, artistic soul who can cook like a dream, and makes the perfect cup of coffee, walks into my Kindle. Oh and damn the man with an accent. But don't be fooled. Egan is the definition of alphamellow. His picture is right next to the word in Websters *nods heads dramatically*. He is protective, and a force to be reckoned with - pure alpha. But for the heroine, loves her fiercely and wants the best for her.
Let's talk story -
Melanie Moreland weaves the MCs back stories to bring the whys on relationship to the forefront. But the past has a way of causing trouble and the value of true friends.
Once again, Melanie Moreland creates a world with romance as the center with suspense swirling around for a edge of your seat can't put down story. This is a series to binge from start to finish.
A must read recommendation.
PS: You need to read the bonus epilogue *chef kiss* perfection.
Update 2022: I read the original Sept 2017. And how could she make the story "more"? The added content rounded out their journey. Adding nuance to the scenes gives the reader a deep experience of the character's journey to HEA. Alex is a soul needing release from her cage, and Adam loves her with a ferocity that every heart deserves. Brilliant, emotional, and engaging. This will leave you with a book hangover.
Once again Melanie Moreland enchants me with her words. She has one voice in contemporary romance that is not to be missed. My Image of You cocoons you tightly in their world that you never want to leave. Adam and Alex are beautifully complex characters that are delivered to the reader with equal parts of lust, humor, tenderness, and love.
Adam is what I would refer to as an understated alpha. His persona is charming and captivating. He has a job that would make any adrenaline junkie jealous. And he passes that passion onto those he loves with evenly matched ferocity. As a reader, you can't help but feel as deeply as he does throughout the story.
Alex is a gorgeously written heroine whose waters run deep. She has an inner strength that shines brighter as the story progresses. Although her glow may dim at times, it's finding that one that helps you glimmer all the time. With Adam, her character doesn't just twinkles but radiates. You don't feel sympathy, but empathy for this endearing heroine. You WANT her to have her HEA.
I would be remiss without mentioning the secondary characters. Ms. Moreland never writes these characters as someone to move the story along . They are as necessary as the main characters need air to breathe. Elena again is one character I wish I knew in real life. She leaps off the page and into your heart.
If you are familiar with Melanie Moreland's writing, My Image of You is right up there with The Contract and Beneath The Scarsas favorites of mine. If you are not, you will not be disappointed with this bewitching story. 5 out of 5 stars
Once again Melanie Moreland enchants me with her words. She has one voice in contemporary romance that is not to be missed. My Image of You cocoons you tightly in their world that you never want to leave. Adam and Alex are beautifully complex characters that are delivered to the reader with equal parts of lust, humor, tenderness, and love.
Adam is what I would refer to as an understated alpha. His persona is charming and captivating. He has a job that would make any adrenaline junkie jealous. And he passes that passion onto those he loves with evenly matched ferocity. As a reader, you can't help but feel as deeply as he does throughout the story.
Alex is a gorgeously written heroine whose waters run deep. She has an inner strength that shines brighter as the story progresses. Although her glow may dim at times, it's finding that one that helps you glimmer all the time. With Adam, her character doesn't just twinkles but radiates. You don't feel sympathy, but empathy for this endearing heroine. You WANT her to have her HEA.
I would be remiss without mentioning the secondary characters. Ms. Moreland never writes these characters as someone to move the story along . They are as necessary as the main characters need air to breathe. Elena again is one character I wish I knew in real life. She leaps off the page and into your heart.
If you are familiar with Melanie Moreland's writing, My Image of You is right up there with The Contract and Beneath The Scarsas favorites of mine. If you are not, you will not be disappointed with this bewitching story. 5 out of 5 stars
I am pretty much all over my feels on writing this review because it boils down to:
THIS IS MY FAVORITE OF THE SERIES AND EVERYONE SHOULD READ IT.
Yeah, that's short and sweet but not helpful. I always delay in putting ink to paper on my reviews. I often read others for inspiration. These two reviews say everything I want to say ---
PP's Bookshelf and Stephanie Rose on Goodreads.
But I need to give you my words. Here's what I think all three of us can agree on - Relatability. Not that I require it and know that fiction is my escape. The character of Raven was someone I would know, in a situation that is all too relevant in today's dating scene. The suspense element may be elevated in the intent of the villain but based on the facts of books 1-2, real evil lurks and adds to the believability of the story.
It's like Melanie Moreland went into my brain, measured all the dopamine levels of books 1-3, and decided to write a story that is just one long perfect dopamine high for everything I loved in the previous books - without story redundancy. It is just that perfect.
Now, dear bookworm friends, I know it's book 4. You didn't read 1-3 for whatever reason. However, the storytelling sets it apart to be an entry point into the world of Hidden Justice or as a single standalone.
Once again Melanie Moreland brings her A-Game to the world of romance storytelling with suspense, humor, and the perfect Happily Ever After for them.
Now, BRING ON THE SPECIALIST!
THIS IS MY FAVORITE OF THE SERIES AND EVERYONE SHOULD READ IT.
Yeah, that's short and sweet but not helpful. I always delay in putting ink to paper on my reviews. I often read others for inspiration. These two reviews say everything I want to say ---
PP's Bookshelf and Stephanie Rose on Goodreads.
But I need to give you my words. Here's what I think all three of us can agree on - Relatability. Not that I require it and know that fiction is my escape. The character of Raven was someone I would know, in a situation that is all too relevant in today's dating scene. The suspense element may be elevated in the intent of the villain but based on the facts of books 1-2, real evil lurks and adds to the believability of the story.
It's like Melanie Moreland went into my brain, measured all the dopamine levels of books 1-3, and decided to write a story that is just one long perfect dopamine high for everything I loved in the previous books - without story redundancy. It is just that perfect.
Now, dear bookworm friends, I know it's book 4. You didn't read 1-3 for whatever reason. However, the storytelling sets it apart to be an entry point into the world of Hidden Justice or as a single standalone.
Once again Melanie Moreland brings her A-Game to the world of romance storytelling with suspense, humor, and the perfect Happily Ever After for them.
Now, BRING ON THE SPECIALIST!
Ever work a job where someone you interact with everyday- boss, coworker, vendor - you hope chokes on their sandwich or has a fatal accident with a letter opener? Be prepared: Richard VanRyan is that person. I have disliked the Hero of the story before. However, they have charming qualities that I can overcome douche like behavior. Richard - OMG - he is just an asshole. I mean there would be a moment in the start of the story you'd think he'd be charming then he'd go open his mouth. You want to junk punch him. Yet, you love to hate him. And you just gotta wonder how this contract will all play out with him at the helm.
You may read the synopsis of the story and think, "I've read this trope before." Or this can be your favorite type of storyline. You are in for a very pleasant surprise. Yes, Richard and Katy work together and the contract is the means to an end for both. They will both get what they want and walk away unscathed. Or maybe not... Although Ms Moreland tells the story from a dual POV, it's Richard's POV that keeps you turning the pages to see how this unfolds.
Our heroine, Katy isn't what she seems and helps Richard see the world from a different view point. His character is a study in what nurture develops us into from children to the people we associate with as adults. Can we become 'better humans'? Possibly. Richard's change isn't "Boom, now he's a teddy bear." So stealthy is the change, it's surreptitious to him. For me, to really hate a character and actually root for his HEA proves what a talented writer Ms Moreland is.
This book will bring out the feels. Sometimes stabby, sometimes sad, sometimes happy. The cast of supporting characters bring the Hero and heroine through their journey that can't help loving (most) of them. If you never read Melanie Moreland's novels, I highly recommend this novel. 5 out of 5 'love to hate him' stars.
You may read the synopsis of the story and think, "I've read this trope before." Or this can be your favorite type of storyline. You are in for a very pleasant surprise. Yes, Richard and Katy work together and the contract is the means to an end for both. They will both get what they want and walk away unscathed. Or maybe not... Although Ms Moreland tells the story from a dual POV, it's Richard's POV that keeps you turning the pages to see how this unfolds.
Our heroine, Katy isn't what she seems and helps Richard see the world from a different view point. His character is a study in what nurture develops us into from children to the people we associate with as adults. Can we become 'better humans'? Possibly. Richard's change isn't "Boom, now he's a teddy bear." So stealthy is the change, it's surreptitious to him. For me, to really hate a character and actually root for his HEA proves what a talented writer Ms Moreland is.
This book will bring out the feels. Sometimes stabby, sometimes sad, sometimes happy. The cast of supporting characters bring the Hero and heroine through their journey that can't help loving (most) of them. If you never read Melanie Moreland's novels, I highly recommend this novel. 5 out of 5 'love to hate him' stars.
Grumpy vs Sunshine is this cowboy vs city girl who fights every turn to not give into the chemistry that boils off the page. Park your horse and get to one-clicking this gem to devour.
I have read and re-read this book too many times to count.* As part of the team, I need to pull lines for teasers and excerpts. But as I turn the page to a bookmarked scene, I cannot help myself but get lost in this engaging story writing. I know when I pick up a Melanie Moreland book it is going to deliver swoons, heat, and heart. This book not only delivered all that but MORE.
That subtle-not-so-subtle banter between the MC's, Luke & Sammy, knocks you in the funny bone without being OTT ridiculous. The banter is delivered to showcase Sammy's independence and Luke's hawt yet grumpy butt. The writing conveys real people with real feelings. Nothing impossible or improbable. The chemistry ignites to a slow burn from the first meet-cute and continues to smolder until Luke can't help but give in.
Let's address the elephant in the room. Standalone or series required? I used to be the series in order captain of police. As time passes and so many books to read, I've tempered my stance. Does reading VAN a requirement? No, but adds to the experience. Is reading books 1-4 a requirement? Definitely not. The book does not dwell on primary characters or touch on other scenes from other books. Now, I dare you NOT to go back if this is your gateway read - but it is definitely a gateway book in the wonderful world of Contract/Vested Interest/ABC Corp that Ms. Moreland has built.
It is lines like that that make you fall in love with these characters and never let go. Their journey sticks with you - not because it is funny. Not because it is hawt. Not because of the tender moments. It is all of the above.
I loved Luke so so much! Grumpy, dirty talker that checked all the hero boxes. AND Sammy - it’s so hard for authors to write a strong, self-assured, independent heroine WITHOUT readers complaining she is ‘unapproachable’ aka a witch. Sammy came off perfect. Just the right amount of spunky and vulnerability.
Once again this is written beautifully. The stellar pacing and story flow of this seasoned writer are not to be missed from your bookshelf. Ms. Moreland does not take a heavy hand with one of the elements of humor, heat, or heart. She blends the words perfectly to turn out something that you will talk about with fellow readers for days. PS the epilogue is everything.
*I am transparent that I have a relationship with Ms Moreland. Yes, I do. I do because I have loved everything she has written since Over The Fence. I may have some bias but frankly, her writing is solid.
I have read and re-read this book too many times to count.* As part of the team, I need to pull lines for teasers and excerpts. But as I turn the page to a bookmarked scene, I cannot help myself but get lost in this engaging story writing. I know when I pick up a Melanie Moreland book it is going to deliver swoons, heat, and heart. This book not only delivered all that but MORE.
"Are you going to be snarky and rude all day?
“Maybe sarcastic and indifferent. Haven’t decided. Get in the saddle and find out.”
That subtle-not-so-subtle banter between the MC's, Luke & Sammy, knocks you in the funny bone without being OTT ridiculous. The banter is delivered to showcase Sammy's independence and Luke's hawt yet grumpy butt. The writing conveys real people with real feelings. Nothing impossible or improbable. The chemistry ignites to a slow burn from the first meet-cute and continues to smolder until Luke can't help but give in.
I already understood that Sammy wasn’t like most women. In fact, I was certain no one else on the planet even came close.
Let's address the elephant in the room. Standalone or series required? I used to be the series in order captain of police. As time passes and so many books to read, I've tempered my stance. Does reading VAN a requirement? No, but adds to the experience. Is reading books 1-4 a requirement? Definitely not. The book does not dwell on primary characters or touch on other scenes from other books. Now, I dare you NOT to go back if this is your gateway read - but it is definitely a gateway book in the wonderful world of Contract/Vested Interest/ABC Corp that Ms. Moreland has built.
“You want to be my partner?”
“I want to be your everything.”
It is lines like that that make you fall in love with these characters and never let go. Their journey sticks with you - not because it is funny. Not because it is hawt. Not because of the tender moments. It is all of the above.
I loved Luke so so much! Grumpy, dirty talker that checked all the hero boxes. AND Sammy - it’s so hard for authors to write a strong, self-assured, independent heroine WITHOUT readers complaining she is ‘unapproachable’ aka a witch. Sammy came off perfect. Just the right amount of spunky and vulnerability.
Once again this is written beautifully. The stellar pacing and story flow of this seasoned writer are not to be missed from your bookshelf. Ms. Moreland does not take a heavy hand with one of the elements of humor, heat, or heart. She blends the words perfectly to turn out something that you will talk about with fellow readers for days. PS the epilogue is everything.
*I am transparent that I have a relationship with Ms Moreland. Yes, I do. I do because I have loved everything she has written since Over The Fence. I may have some bias but frankly, her writing is solid.
This collection of short stories from these amazing authors is worth the price of admission.
Some of the stories are continuations or bonus scenes of the couples we love. Some include secondary characters we wanted to know more. Also, there is a complete short story of new-to-readers from Melanie Moreland.
If you are fans of any of the authors, you'll find revisiting your favorites worthwhile. For new-to-you, you'll get a first-hand look at storytelling to send you on a binge.
But most importantly, the profits from this book are all going to support the needs of those who need it most in Ukraine. For that alone is worth the price.
When the romance community comes together, they come together strong.
Some of the stories are continuations or bonus scenes of the couples we love. Some include secondary characters we wanted to know more. Also, there is a complete short story of new-to-readers from Melanie Moreland.
If you are fans of any of the authors, you'll find revisiting your favorites worthwhile. For new-to-you, you'll get a first-hand look at storytelling to send you on a binge.
But most importantly, the profits from this book are all going to support the needs of those who need it most in Ukraine. For that alone is worth the price.
When the romance community comes together, they come together strong.
When you need a feel-good story that puts a grin on your face, all you need to do is turn to a Melanie Moreland Insta-Spark book. Following Maggie is part of the Coming Home multi-author series where each theme of the story is about "Love finding your way home."
In several social media posts, Ms. Moreland said she had drafted this story years ago inspired by the real-life story of a couple who met and married while stranded in a storm layover in Canada.
Sebastian and Maggie find themselves stranded in a terminal awaiting the storm to lift and continue their travels. There is something about each other that reaches out and touches the other. A connection and a need to know more. The story doesn't stop there. Ms. Moreland follows the couple as they travel to a small town for them both to start over.
Once again the storytelling gives you an evening read for the sheer enjoyment of watching a pair fated to meet fall in love and find their home. Touching, laughs, and sexy times as you'll always find in an engaging novel.
Recommendation: Get to reading and make your heart happy!
In several social media posts, Ms. Moreland said she had drafted this story years ago inspired by the real-life story of a couple who met and married while stranded in a storm layover in Canada.
Sebastian and Maggie find themselves stranded in a terminal awaiting the storm to lift and continue their travels. There is something about each other that reaches out and touches the other. A connection and a need to know more. The story doesn't stop there. Ms. Moreland follows the couple as they travel to a small town for them both to start over.
Once again the storytelling gives you an evening read for the sheer enjoyment of watching a pair fated to meet fall in love and find their home. Touching, laughs, and sexy times as you'll always find in an engaging novel.
Recommendation: Get to reading and make your heart happy!
Truth be told - I have re-read my ARC twice. Why? Because I had no idea I was looking for a hero like Stefano Borelli.
I have found as romance readers that we follow a pattern - we want someone to hear and understand us. Comforts us when we are feeling down. Helps us slay our battles. These heroes may start out irritatingly contrary or charmingly nerdy. We want them to love us and do these romantic things. (Side note: us is really the heroine but don't we all replace ourselves as the heroine as we read?)
Stefano is the romantic lead I had been looking for and didn't know I needed.
When he finds Gabby, it's instant. Mine. Piss a circle. All the actions of a hero who has found his soulmate. Some readers may call this instalove. I just found Stefano got the connection and his heart was won over. End of. He treats Gabby with the respect and intimacy she deserves.
Gabby isn't without baggage. She's got a 5-year-old son to consider. Plus she is starting over in a new town. When you have a Mama bear, she's going to put those 'back off, go slow' vibes, and rightfully so. But you see how much Theo is her world and she's going to make sure he feels safe and loved.
Let's talk - standalone or read the entire series? First, if you skip book 1 (you can, but seriously really?) You will miss out on the spectacular chemistry of Maxx and Charly. However, if you want to start here with a dirty-talking, romantic Italian who will do ANYTHING including stomping on his own heart for the heroine, start here.
Those who loved Revved To The Maxx will not be disappointed. Charly shows up with her antics to drive Maxx crazy. But I have to report - a new scene-stealer in a 5-year-old boy - Theo.
I loved the storytelling, watching these two meet and combust. Watching the introduction of family acceptance with open arms. Awesome side characters in Brett, Kelly and Chase. Just again - brilliant weaving of entertaining the reader and having us fall in love with the genre all over again.
I've had the opportunity to listen to the audio. John Lane and Maxine Mitchell hit the performance out of the park. I could listen to John Lane call me "Tesoro" all day.
Recommendation: Read this story!
I have found as romance readers that we follow a pattern - we want someone to hear and understand us. Comforts us when we are feeling down. Helps us slay our battles. These heroes may start out irritatingly contrary or charmingly nerdy. We want them to love us and do these romantic things. (Side note: us is really the heroine but don't we all replace ourselves as the heroine as we read?)
Stefano is the romantic lead I had been looking for and didn't know I needed.
When he finds Gabby, it's instant. Mine. Piss a circle. All the actions of a hero who has found his soulmate. Some readers may call this instalove. I just found Stefano got the connection and his heart was won over. End of. He treats Gabby with the respect and intimacy she deserves.
Gabby isn't without baggage. She's got a 5-year-old son to consider. Plus she is starting over in a new town. When you have a Mama bear, she's going to put those 'back off, go slow' vibes, and rightfully so. But you see how much Theo is her world and she's going to make sure he feels safe and loved.
Let's talk - standalone or read the entire series? First, if you skip book 1 (you can, but seriously really?) You will miss out on the spectacular chemistry of Maxx and Charly. However, if you want to start here with a dirty-talking, romantic Italian who will do ANYTHING including stomping on his own heart for the heroine, start here.
Those who loved Revved To The Maxx will not be disappointed. Charly shows up with her antics to drive Maxx crazy. But I have to report - a new scene-stealer in a 5-year-old boy - Theo.
I loved the storytelling, watching these two meet and combust. Watching the introduction of family acceptance with open arms. Awesome side characters in Brett, Kelly and Chase. Just again - brilliant weaving of entertaining the reader and having us fall in love with the genre all over again.
I've had the opportunity to listen to the audio. John Lane and Maxine Mitchell hit the performance out of the park. I could listen to John Lane call me "Tesoro" all day.
Recommendation: Read this story!
I am and forever will be a sucker for second chance romance. Now, these stories can vary in length and why our couple is apart. That doesn't matter to me. What I love is they have chemistry from the start of the story. With that, we know they are going to find their way back.
Now the good thing for those readers who dislike missing out in the beginning. Melanie Moreland offers this story in two parts (after she shocks the sh#t out of you in the prologue). We get the will they/won't they. Tally needs a job, and Julian needs to keep his hands off her but can't.
One thing leads to another and BOOM - we've caught the love bug. However, secrets are never good. These two - well ... they get an A+ in secrets. This leads us to a fast forward to tension-filled but when are they going to just give in Present Day. Then...secrets come out. YIKES! Of course Matteo and Marcus come back for one more job. *sigh* and *swoon*
Things I loved about the story:
- Daddy Julian
- Alpha-Protective Julian
- Tally has no patience for steamrollering alpha males (GO GIRL!)
Things to consider:
It is a part of a series. However, storyline emphasis is more on contemporary and less on suspense in this book. Those who skipped 1 & 2 I believe could easily dive in here.
This story hinges on the relationship. What causes it to fall apart and how they can rebuild. Chemistry and love are there but the true test is the tough stuff. Melanie Moreland developes a well-rounded story building on that relationship to last. This is the stories I call "Unputdownable" because the pacing is in time with the action and smexy times.
It's hard to pick a favorite among the Men of Hidden Justice, but Julian wins because we get plenty of sexy and adorable daddy in this hero.
A personal favorite and recommend you get to clicking to read.
Now the good thing for those readers who dislike missing out in the beginning. Melanie Moreland offers this story in two parts (after she shocks the sh#t out of you in the prologue). We get the will they/won't they. Tally needs a job, and Julian needs to keep his hands off her but can't.
One thing leads to another and BOOM - we've caught the love bug. However, secrets are never good. These two - well ... they get an A+ in secrets. This leads us to a fast forward to tension-filled but when are they going to just give in Present Day. Then...secrets come out. YIKES! Of course Matteo and Marcus come back for one more job. *sigh* and *swoon*
Things I loved about the story:
- Daddy Julian
- Alpha-Protective Julian
- Tally has no patience for steamrollering alpha males (GO GIRL!)
Things to consider:
It is a part of a series. However, storyline emphasis is more on contemporary and less on suspense in this book. Those who skipped 1 & 2 I believe could easily dive in here.
This story hinges on the relationship. What causes it to fall apart and how they can rebuild. Chemistry and love are there but the true test is the tough stuff. Melanie Moreland developes a well-rounded story building on that relationship to last. This is the stories I call "Unputdownable" because the pacing is in time with the action and smexy times.
It's hard to pick a favorite among the Men of Hidden Justice, but Julian wins because we get plenty of sexy and adorable daddy in this hero.
A personal favorite and recommend you get to clicking to read.
If you read and loved The Boss, and wondered how Melanie Moreland would top this story. The short of it: she did. No sophomore slump for me. She took the story pacing and action and said "what would happen if I turned up the dial a notch?" What she created is another page-turner with Second-In-Command.
I am going to out myself: When Marcus appeared in The Boss, I was one of the many fangirls who asked - okay scratch that - begged that we get a Marcus story. I didn't care what it was - this man intrigued me. And did he ever break out the alpha-growly ways. He is not interested nor actively looking for his soulmate. Yet this slip of a woman basically slips in under his skin and he cannot let go.
"Matteo would howl in amusement if he saw me now."
Yup Marcus you are done for with Missy.
Let's talk Missy. Strong heroines seem to be a love or hate with romance readers. They need to be soft but not doormats according to some. Then there is this one. By what she suffered, she should be a broken doll. Missy has this underlying strength that she is going to write her own ending. She is badass without being a bitch. I basically have a big ol' girl crush on her that makes her a memorable character when fellow bookworms need a book pushed on them.
This is romantic suspense with page-turning scenes, steams up your glasses from your kindle caught on fire with the chemistry and two unforgettable main characters. I love this side of romantic suspense that Melanie Moreland is bringing to readers.
Definitely a - BUY THIS recommendation from me.
By the way...you get a sneak peek into Julian's story (happy fangirl dance of joy).Melanie Moreland promises to dial back the intensity and deliver a couple story about life changes. I.AM.HERE.FOR.THIS.
I am going to out myself: When Marcus appeared in The Boss, I was one of the many fangirls who asked - okay scratch that - begged that we get a Marcus story. I didn't care what it was - this man intrigued me. And did he ever break out the alpha-growly ways. He is not interested nor actively looking for his soulmate. Yet this slip of a woman basically slips in under his skin and he cannot let go.
"Matteo would howl in amusement if he saw me now."
Yup Marcus you are done for with Missy.
Let's talk Missy. Strong heroines seem to be a love or hate with romance readers. They need to be soft but not doormats according to some. Then there is this one. By what she suffered, she should be a broken doll. Missy has this underlying strength that she is going to write her own ending. She is badass without being a bitch. I basically have a big ol' girl crush on her that makes her a memorable character when fellow bookworms need a book pushed on them.
This is romantic suspense with page-turning scenes, steams up your glasses from your kindle caught on fire with the chemistry and two unforgettable main characters. I love this side of romantic suspense that Melanie Moreland is bringing to readers.
Definitely a - BUY THIS recommendation from me.
By the way...you get a sneak peek into Julian's story (happy fangirl dance of joy).Melanie Moreland promises to dial back the intensity and deliver a couple story about life changes. I.AM.HERE.FOR.THIS.
For all of us who need: give-me-a-man-who-will-sweep-me-off-my-feet-by-his-handsome-alpha-ways, we got: I-want-to-slap-him-then-kiss-him-and-kick-him. Never has an author so turned on every emotion for reader in a character. And it wasn't just the leading man we adored. The heroine and secondary characters left a lingering mark. So what happens after the HEA?
Ms Moreland gives us exactly the perfect followup and so much more. Best part about 2.0, Richard is still Richard. You want to smack him upside the head while you hug his mug. And Katy still deserves every reward for taming this man. You get their next phase that has you grinning and swooning with each page turn. And wanting the 3.0 "Teenage Years" next. If you've not read The Contract, you must. Then pick up this gem to get a further look into these fabulous characters.