Tag Archives: Cynthia Eden

All He Wants for Christmas – Anthology – Reviews

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All He Wants for Christmas – Anthology – Reviews

 

All He Wants for ChristmasAmazon / Barnes & Noble / Kobo

Description:
Six ALL NEW Christmas stories guaranteed to warm up your holidays… Here’s to finding spies, cops, rockers, SEALs, professional hockey players and billionaires under the Christmas tree this year! In Holly, a town where it’s Christmas every day of the year, 6 shop owners on Main Street are about to find love in unexpected places. Grab this bundle of ALL NEW, 100% sizzling hot holiday tales!

Review:

Six stories?! I’m expected to review six stories, albeit short, sexy reads, all by myself. Surely someone can at leas…hold up. Yes, I’ll take it…I’ll take ‘em all! But I’m nothing if not a people pleaser and since I’m immersed in the Christmas spirit, buy this, read this, gift this ensemble of awesome! All He Wants for Christmas is a six story anthology by all your favorites: Elisabeth Naughton, Alexandra Ivy, Cynthia Eden, Katie Reus, Laura Wright, and Skye Jordan. Second-chance Christmas miracles (and danger) pervade the town of Holly, North Carolina. Every single story was joyful and triumphant! 😉

Melt for Me by Elisabeth Naughton

Second chance love for second chance people. Tate is just as much to blame as Ella for the demise of their relationship. Tate turned to his guitar and his career took off. Ella went to college then…got married?! It’s been 9 long years since these two have communicated; you can imagine the anxiety of seeing a true ex. But when the attraction remains as fierce as you remember…it’s got to mean something!

Because no matter how hard she’d tried to keep her heart locked off these last few years, one night with Tate Kendrick had suddenly kicked the stupid thing right into overdrive.

 

Sweet Rapture by Alexandra Ivy

Back in Holly because Meg was homesick…or because home is where Meg’s sick heart can heal again? Dylan might be the cause of Meg’s heartache, but her life is in danger and he’s determined to keep her safe, by earning her trust and love. She might have a thing or two to say about it.

“Give me three months, angel. If you still want me to leave-“…

“Do I have a choice?” With one last glare, she swung around and headed for the door.

“Meg, wait-“

“Welcome to Holly,” she muttered, not glancing back as she stepped into the cold night air. “I hope you get frostbite.”

 

The Spy Who Came for Christmas by Cynthia Eden

Looking for a respite from the hectic life of a spy, Grayson sinks into the homeyness of Holly. Jolted by his attraction to Jemma was utter kismet, but that magic is interrupted by vengeance. Why can’t the good girl take a walk on the wild side and not regret it. Why can’t the good guy (who only has to be the bad guy on the job) finally get the good girl for good?

Two lost souls. Was that what they really were? Because as she stood before him, Jemma didn’t feel so lost. She actually felt as if she’d just found something that had been missing from her life for too long. Someone.

 

Merry Christmas, Baby by Katie Reus

Jackson made a, well, jackass of himself, and he openly admits it. Nora blew him away. Their friendship was instantaneous and when she came apart in his arms, well…there’s no forgetting that. Ever. There would never be another woman for him. So he walked away. The fu*k?!

Nora picked herself up and dove into her bookstore business. Why’s Jackson suddenly interested again? Again being the operative word, because he never ceased; he only seized up when he envisioned their perfect future together. It’s up to Jackson to make a second, lasting impression.

Sinful in Snow by Laura Wright

A sweet connection between a broken boy and the girl who saved his life. Fast forward 10 years and he’s practically Christian Grey! Underneath the smooth exterior lays the heart of a Grinch and Ms. Wright keeps you clinging (second-guessing) all of his thoughts. Is Gabriel back for revenge (what the hell did Carol even do to deserve such backlash?) or has he been pining for her after all these years? If so, why is Gabriel so reserved, telling himself to stick to the plan?!

All in good time, amidst steamy (and sometimes suspicious) surprises in snowy Holly!

 

Home Advantage by Skye Jordan

Hockey and Christmas – I know I love the combination! NHL superstar, Meier, is back home in Holly with city-boy eyes. Gone is that wonderment, replaced by shiny, fast thrills that NYC offers. Until he succumbs to Faith, that is (yes, double entendre!) Holly hasn’t lost its charm on Faith, losing her father 6 months ago has simply sucked out all the joy in her life. Meier’s presence is more pestering, but he’s the only thing that’s gotten under her skin in a long time. Can Meier make Faith skate off into the sunset with him or will he stay in the penalty box for assuming too much?

It’s not too late to make someone very, very happy. Get wrapped up in the Christmas spirit of Holly! Every story is sure to warm your winter nights.

Reviews by Carmen

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Mine to Protect (Mine #6) by Cynthia Eden-a review

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MINE TO PROTECT (Mine #6) by Cynthia Eden-a review

Mine to Protect

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO /

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date December 15, 2015

He agreed to protect her…not love her.

Victor Monroe left behind a brutal past when he decided to become an FBI Agent. He knows that other agents think he’s too cold, that he has ice in his veins, but he doesn’t care what folks say about him. He gets the job done–always. No matter the cost.

Then he’s blackmailed into guarding…her.

Zoe Peters, ex-showgirl, daughter of a mob boss and drug dealer, a witness who wants to vanish. Zoe is wild, beautiful, and on far too many hit lists. It’s now Victor’s job to keep her safe–a job that Zoe makes damn difficult. But keeping her alive is his mission. It’s supposed to be strictly professional between them. Just another case. Only…

He never counted on falling for her.

Zoe is not the woman he expected. She isn’t cold or hard. She lights up the room when she walks into it, and despite the hell surrounding her, Zoe is good. Probably too good for Victor because Zoe doesn’t know about the secret deal that Victor worked out with her father. Zoe doesn’t know that Victor intended to use her for information and then turn her over to waiting operatives.

Desire wasn’t supposed to enter the equation. The white-hot lust he feels for Zoe should have never threatened Victor’s legendary self-control. But she’s under his skin…melting his ice…getting to him… Soon Victor doesn’t care about the law or about the lines he has to cross for Zoe. She is his priority. Victor will not rest until every threat to her has been eliminated. And then…

Zoe will be his.

•••••

REVIEW: MINE TO PROTECT is the sixth instalment in Cynthia Eden’s contemporary, adult MINE romantic suspense series. This is FBI agent Victor Monroe, and former Vegas showgirl and mob daughter Zoe Peters’s storyline. MINE TO PROTECT can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from previous story lines is revealed where necessary.

Told from several third person perspectives, MINE TO PROTECT focuses on the protection of Zoe Peters. Zoe is the daughter of a powerful and infamous mob boss-a man who continues to control his empire behind bars-but a man who is willing to kill anyone who stands in his way. When a two million dollar hit is taken out on Zoe’s life, the FBI try to stay one step ahead of the people gunning for Zoe’s life-enter Victor Monroe-the FBI agent assigned to Zoe’s protection and the man who is willing to give up everything to protect the woman with whom he is falling in love. There is only one issue standing between Victor and Zoe’s protection-Victor needs some information from Zoe and the only way he can make her talk is to ensure she trusts him with her body and her heart.

We are reintroduced to Elizabeth and Saxon Black (Mine to Have #5), as well as Jasmine and Drake Archer (Mine to Hold #4). Victor’s connection to each of these couples is paramount to the storyline premise.

The relationship between Victor and Zoe has been building for several months while Victor is entrusted with Zoe’s protection. But Zoe is a woman determined to find her missing friend, and with it comes the probability that the people hunting Zoe will find our heroine before she has a chance to discover the whereabouts of her only friend.

MINE TO PROTECT is a story of mystery and suspense; romance and love; betrayal and heartbreak. Zoe is a strong female character but her need to strike out on her own places her in several dangerous situations. Victor is a man with many secrets; some of these secrets he would die to protect and Zoe pushes all of Victor’s buttons-both good and bad; protective and alpha.

Cynthia Eden writes another entertaining, action packed story of intrigue and suspense. The $ex scenes are seductive and intimate. The characters are likeable, intense and colourful; the happily ever after finds our couple starting a new life with the possibility of a future together.

Reviewed by Sandy

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Shattered (LOST #3) by Cynthia Eden-a review

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SHATTERED (Lost 3) by Cynthia Eden-a review

Shattered

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / The Book Depository / BAM

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date October 27, 2015

Criminal psychologist Dr. Sarah Jacobs is all too familiar with the kind of bad boys who belong behind bars. But the dark, dangerous man she meets in the New Orleans underworld is a new kind of ruthless, and all too irresistible.

Jax Fontaine doesn’t claim to be a good guy, but he’s loyal to his own code and brutally honest about what he wants. He and Sarah may be worlds apart, but when they’re skin to skin, nothing matters but the heat between them.

And when a deranged killer targets Sarah, Jax will do whatever it takes to keep her safe.

••••••••••••••••

REVIEW: SHATTERED is the third instalment in Cynthia Eden’s contemporary, adult LOST romantic suspense series focusing on the men and women of LOST (Last Option Search Team). This is criminal psychologist Dr. Sarah Jacobs, and dark and dangerous businessman Jax Fontaine’s storyline. Although SHATTERED is the third in the series, it can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty.

Told from several third person perspectives SHATTERED focuses on a killer who has targeted both Sarah Jacobs and Jax Fontaine. Sarah’s past is mired in death; a guilt she harbours for the sins of another, and with it comes Sarah’s resolve of acceptance for something of which she was never responsible. When a series of copy cat killings hits too close to home, Sarah finds herself partnered with Jax Fontaine -a man with an even darker past and dangerous secrets. As the threats against Sarah begin to escalate, the police begin to look at Jax as a possible suspect when all of the clues lead back to the man in question.

The relationship between Sarah and Jax is one of mutual attraction. The sexual energy is palpable; Jax is a man who knows what he wants, and he wants Sarah for now and in the future. Jax is an enigma; a sexy but dangerous man whose power and energy commands respect as well as doubt about his true intent. The $ex scenes are provocative and seductive. Sarah and Jax were first introduced to the reader in the previous story lines when Jax’s prior relationship with Emma Castille (Twisted #2) resulted in jealousy and emotional turmoil for Emma and former FBI agent Dean Bannon. Forensic specialist Victoria Palmer’s story is building; her attraction and potential future with former detective Wade Monroe is gathering steam; Victoria may be a serial killer’s next intended victim-a serial killer that is all too familiar to Victoria Palmer.

SHATTERED is a fast paced, intense, romantic suspense storyline with a series of twists and turns; a thriller where there is more to the story; a mystery about the who, where and why. Cynthia Eden pushes the proverbial envelope with her amazing ability to keep the reader in suspense until the very end.

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

Series Spotlight

BrokenBroken
LOST #1
by Cynthia Eden
Genre: adult, contemporary, romantic suspense
Release Date: March 31, 2015

Amazon.com / B&N / KOBO / The Book Depository

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date March 31, 2015

The first novel in New York Times bestselling author Cynthia Eden’s sizzling LOST series introduces the Last Option Search Team, an elite unit that must protect the only surviving victim of a serial killer.

Ex-SEAL and LOST founder Gabe Spencer is accustomed to the unusual in his job. But when knockout Eve Gray steps into his office, he’s rattled. For the mysterious woman is a dead ringer for the heiress thought to be the latest prey of the serial killer who goes by the name Lady Killer.

When Eve awoke in an Atlanta hospital, her past was a blank slate. Then she recognized her own face in the newspaper and vowed to learn the truth. Determined to confront the nightmares hidden in her mind, she never expects to find a partner in Gabe.

As Gabe and Eve work together, their explosive attraction becomes irresistible. Gabe knows that his desire for Eve is growing too strong, bordering on a dangerous obsession, but nothing pulls him away from her. And when another Eve lookalike disappears, Gabe vows to protect Eve at all costs. While Eve may have forgotten the killer in her past, it’s clear he hasn’t forgotten her.

____________________

TwistedTwisted
LOST #2
by Cynthia Eden
Genre: adult, contemporary, romantic suspense,
Release Date: April 28, 2015

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / The Book Depository

About the book: Release Date April 28, 2015

In the second seductive LOST novel from New York Times bestselling author Cynthia Eden, an obsessed Last Option Search Team agent goes looking for trouble—and finds her in the Big Easy.

Dean Bannon comes to New Orleans for one reason only: to track down a missing sixteen-year-old girl. That’s before he meets the drop-dead gorgeous con artist who makes him want to lose his legendary control.

With her past, Emma Castille doesn’t claim to be psychic. She just notices things other people don’t. Like the fear in a runaway’s eyes—or the pain in an ex-FBI agent’s heart. Her chemistry with Dean is blistering, but Emma follows her passion . . . not someone else’s orders.

Then a madman breaks into Emma’s home and leaves a twisted message: You’re next. Now Dean refuses to let her out of his sight until he pries every last secret from her full, sexy lips. And suddenly Emma’s aching to give him everything he wants.

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Beware of Me (Dark Obsession #4) by Cynthia Eden-a review

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BEWARE OF ME (Dark Obsession #4) by Cynthia Eden-a review

Beware of Me

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO /

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date July 28, 2015

Criminal. Killer. Monster. Ethan Barclay has been called many things in life, and he usually doesn’t care what people say about him. He’s tough, hard, and brutal when he needs to be. But even the most dangerous of men can have a weakness. Ethan’s weakness has–and always will be–Carly Shay.

Their pasts are tied together–twisted and melded by blood and death. Walking away from Carly was the hardest thing that Ethan ever did, but it was also his one good deed. He knew Carly deserved far better than him, and he wanted her to have a perfect life, a life that didn’t involve paying for Ethan’s sins.

Only now the secrets from their past have been revealed, and Carly’s life is on the line. Ethan’s enemies, Carly’s enemies–the predators are closing in on them. But Ethan isn’t going to let Carly be threatened. He will move heaven and hell to protect her. He won’t lose Carly, not again, and for those foolish enough to try and take her from him…they are about to see just how deadly Ethan truly can be.

Author’s Note: BEWARE OF ME is a complete, stand-alone story. All of the books in the Dark Obsession series are stand-alone titles.

••••••••••••••••••

REVIEW: BEWARE OF ME is the fourth installment in Cynthia Eden’s adult, contemporary Dark Obsession erotic, dark romance, suspense series. This is businessman Ethan Barclay, and PR employee Carly Shay’s storyline- a story of second chances, dark secrets and dangerous pasts. Carly is Julianna Smith’s step sister (Need Me #3) and her tale began to unravel in the previous story. BEWARE OF ME is a stand alone storyline where some of the previous storyline characters plays a secondary or supporting role although for cohesion and history between the characters I recommend reading the series in order.

Told from third person point of view BEWARE OF ME follows Ethan Barclay as he vows to protect Carly Shay from the evil that threatens to destroy her life. Years before Carly and Ethan found themselves the victims of a psychotic crime boss wherein the mantra kill or be killed was the reality of their situation. Fast forward to present day where Carly becomes the target of someone seeking revenge for the sins of years ago-a missing crime boss whose minions want something in return. Carly will become the victim of more than one stalker when reputation and money are on the line.

BEWARE OF ME is a story of second chances for Ethan and Carly. Following their horrific ordeal Ethan pushed Carly out of his life to protect her from the darker side of his criminal past. But both of their pasts have come seeking revenge, and Ethan is determined to protect Carly-no matter the cost. Ethan is a wanted man by the FBI, and the FBI want to uncover what it is Carly is hiding. Ethan is an alpha male and an anti hero-an unscrupulous hero whose own moral code is a series of shades of grey and doesn’t have time to worry about collateral damage. Ethan has vowed to protect Carly with his life when the past comes seeking vengeance and retribution.

The relationship between Carly and Ethan is intense and dramatic; they share a dark and secreted past that has left both with physical and emotional scars. The $ex scenes are intimate and provocative; the sexual chemistry is hot and heavy. Ethan is a businessman whose legitimate enterprises hide a criminal past; Carly is a woman whose emotional fragility is tested time and time again. From unsympathetic law enforcement to questionable medical ethics, our heroine finds herself re-victimized at every turn.

The secondary and supporting characters include Sophie Sarantos (Want Me #2) and Detective Faith Chestang-both of whom were introduced in previous storylines-Faith has had a recurring role throughout the series. We are also introduced to FBI special agent Victor Monroe whose own life will become entrenched with Ethan Barclay when an infamous crime lord’s daughter is somehow connected to our next storyline hero. Dr. Keith Nelson is a questionable psychiatrist whose professional relationship with Carly begins to cross the line between right and wrong; Ethan’s personal driver Charles may or may not be what he proclaims to be; and Curtis Atkins, a man who is determined to make Carly pay-once and for all.

BEWARE OF ME is a fast paced storyline of mystery and suspense; betrayal and revenge; romance and love. There are moments of regret and heartbreak coupled with a profession of love but a promise for the future comes with an entirely different set of rules. Cynthia Eden adds a few twists and turns to a storyline that is as unpredictable as the characters we have grown to love.

Reading Order

Watch Me
Want Me
Need Me
Beware of Me

Copy supplied by Netgalley.

Reviewed by Sandy

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Deal With The Devil / Charming The Beast (Purgatory Series) by Cynthia Eden – a review

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DEAL WITH THE DEVIL / Charming The Beast (Purgatory Series) by Cynthia Eden-a review

Deal with the Devil

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / KOBO /

About the book: Release Date June 9, 2015

Eric Pate is used to making his own rules—as the director of the PARA Unit, he is the boss. Everyone rushes to obey his commands, and no one knows his secrets. No one ever gets too close to him. But then he meets her.

Ella Lancaster is tired of being a prisoner. She escaped one hell just to find herself in another, but Eric doesn’t consider her containment with his agents as punishment. He actually thinks it is a form of protection. But Eric is so very wrong. Ella doesn’t need protecting, not for anyone or anything.

But when the PARA Unit comes under attack, Ella and Eric both find themselves battling a supernatural beast that they never expected. Forced to join forces, to make a deal, Ella and Eric are soon fighting side-by-side, and their attraction for each other can’t be contained or controlled. Hot. Wild. Consuming. Ella’s deal with her devil is soon taking over her life.

And as Eric falls deeper and deeper under the mysterious Ella’s spell, his legendary control begins to crack. The beast that he has kept chained so carefully inside rises to the surface. Unfortunately, when the devil loses his control…there is real hell to pay.

••••••••••••••

REVIEW: DEAL WITH THE DEVIL is the fourth installment in Cynthia Eden’s adult, contemporary Purgatory paranormal romance series. Purgatory is an island prison for the supernatural-those that cannot be controlled and are a danger to themselves and everyone else. This is PARA Unit director Eric Pate, and Ella Lancaster’s storyline. DEAL WITH THE DEVIL can be read as a stand alone but for background information and enjoyment, I suggest reading the series in order.

Told from alternating third person perspectives (Eric and Ella) DEAL WITH THE DEVIL follows the continued ‘imprisonment’ of Ella Lancaster, and the PARA Unit director’s explosive attraction to a woman whose species (or origins) is unknown. Ella ia a woman who had been imprisoned by a monster; for years she was tortured and abused, tested and retested, drained of blood and left to die. Someone or something was using Ella’s blood. Upon her ‘rescue’ Ella found she had traded one prison for another, regardless of the furnishing and trappings made to look like she was living a normal life. As the PARA doctors continued to run tests on Ella’s blood, Eric Pate found himself drawn to the woman who was secluded for her own protection, not imprisoned against her wishes.

Throughout the series Eric Pate has been an enigma. He is a man who demands obedience of those he commands; his control over the others is unquestioned; but he is also a man whose personality was questionable. Eric had secrets; dark and dangerous secrets, if revealed, could compromise his position within the PARA Unit.

The relationship between Ella and Eric is one of immediate attraction but Ella believes she was betrayed by the very people who aided in her rescue including Eric Pate –The PARA Unit commander and a man who isn’t quite human himself. What ensues is a mutual attraction between Ella and Eric, one that Ella believes is fated for her kind. Eric refuses to give in to the myth of fated mates, and although his need for Ella cannot be explained, Eric is determined to save Ella from whatever is hunting the woman of his heart even if it mean revealing the truth about his ‘second nature’. The $ex scenes are intimate, aggressive and compelling without the ‘over the top’ erotic factor.

The secondary and supporting characters include all of the previous storyline couples: Duncan and Holly, Shane and Olivia, Connor and Chloe. We are also introduced to the man responsible for Ella’s powers; and the beast who will stop at nothing to get her back. By way of the storyline premise, we are also introduced to a new breed of hybrid supernaturals, and the possibility of something more. Lawrence’s storyline may be next on the horizon.

DEAL WITH THE DEVIL is a story with action, mystery, suspense and romance. Cynthia Eden will capture your heart and your imagination. Her characters are likeable, engaging and intense; her storyline emotional, passionate and intriguing; the world building continues to grab your attention-always leaving you wanting more !

Reading Order and Reviews
The Wolf Within
Marked by the Vampire
Charming The Beast (see review below)
Deal with the Devil

NOTE:  If you have not read this series, THE WOLF WITHIN (Book 1 of the Purgatory Series) is FREE for KINDLE and KOBO users:Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / KOBO /

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

________________

Charming the BeastCHARMING THE BEAST
(Purgatory #3)
by Cynthia Eden
Genre: adult, contemporary, paranormal romance

Kindle & Nook ebook ONLY 99¢ :Amazon.com / Amazon.ca /B&N / KOBO /

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date October 23, 2014

He’s a man with a beast inside…

Connor Marrok never intended to work for the Seattle Para Unit. He’s not one of the good guys—he’s a real monster, and the beast he carries doesn’t exactly play nicely. But now he finds himself being blackmailed into a new assignment. It’s supposed to be his last gig. His mission? Protect the beautiful Chloe Quick. Keep her alive. Destroy her enemies. Easy enough…until he starts to fall for Chloe.

She just wants to escape.

Chloe is tired of being a prisoner. She wants to get away from her Para Unit guard and run fast into the night. So what if Connor is the sexiest guy she’s ever met? Chloe knows trouble when she sees it, and Connor is one big, dangerous package of trouble. But, when an obsessed werewolf begins stalking Chloe, she realizes that her paranormal bodyguard may just be the one man she needs the most.

Their attraction is primal.

Every moment that Chloe and Connor spend together increases their attraction. Chloe has never felt a need so strong or a desire so dark. The beast that Chloe carries inside has always been silent, but Connor is stirring up her animal instincts. And as the danger and desire begin to twist together, Chloe wonders just how far she’d be willing to go…in order to spend one more night in Connor’s arms.

••••••••••

REVIEW: CHARMING THE BEAST is the third installment in Cynthia Eden’s paranormal, adult, contemporary Purgatory romance series. Purgatory is an island prison for the most powerful of supernatural criminals. This is Para Unit Agent and crossover hybrid Connor Marrok and Chloe Quick’s storyline who were introduced to one another in the previous book. Although this is the third book in the series is can be read as a stand alone without too much difficult but I recommend reading in order for background and detailed information about the previous storyline couples and premise.

Connor Marrok is a cross-over. A supernatural being ½ vampire/ ½ werewolf and all alpha male. He is a man whose younger years have resulted in physical and emotional scars that will never heal. His wolf wants Chloe Quick-the daughter of the man who has set out to destroy the FBI’s Seattle Para Unit-and the man who tried to destroy Chloe’s life.

Chloe is under the Para Unit’s protection but her freedom and choices are no longer her own. Something about Chloe’s DNA has changed and she is now the focus of a number of werewolf packs; she has become the number one target for a man hoping to make her his own. As the wolves begin to circle, someone is willing to sacrifice Chloe for information and a chance to end the cycle of attacks.

The attraction between Chloe and Connor is immediate; a friends to lovers storyline that focuses on Connor’s need to protect the woman he needs to claim as his mate. But Connor believes he is not the right man for Chloe and tries miserably but fails to keep his distance.

The world building continues as more agents of the Para Unit are introduced and Purgatory continues to house the baddest of the bad. The secondary characters include all of the previous storyline couples as well as the agents and Unit commander Eric Pate. Eric is an enigma; an alpha male; the boss; the man in charge and he is nobody’s friend. Eric is a man who is willing to risk any or all of his agents to ensure they get their ‘man’. In this, he is a character whose intent is questionable but also a character who has many secrets that have yet to be revealed. I believe his story is next.

If you are a fan of the paranormal shifter romance storylines, then Cynthia Eden’s PURGATORY series is for you. There is a little bit of everything supernatural: werewolves, vampires, Dijinn, magic and more. The characters are for the most part likeable; their stories are heartbreaking; sometimes tragic; always intense.

Reading Order and Previous Reviews
The Wolf Within
Marked by the Vampire
Charming the Beast
Deal with the Devil

Copy supplied by Netgalley.

Reviewed by Sandy

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Twisted (LOST #2) by Cynthia Eden-a review

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TWISTED (Lost #2) by Cynthia Eden-a review

Twisted

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / The Book Depository

About the book: Release Date April 28, 2015

In the second seductive LOST novel from New York Times bestselling author Cynthia Eden, an obsessed Last Option Search Team agent goes looking for trouble—and finds her in the Big Easy.

Dean Bannon comes to New Orleans for one reason only: to track down a missing sixteen-year-old girl. That’s before he meets the drop-dead gorgeous con artist who makes him want to lose his legendary control.

With her past, Emma Castille doesn’t claim to be psychic. She just notices things other people don’t. Like the fear in a runaway’s eyes—or the pain in an ex-FBI agent’s heart. Her chemistry with Dean is blistering, but Emma follows her passion . . . not someone else’s orders.

Then a madman breaks into Emma’s home and leaves a twisted message: You’re next. Now Dean refuses to let her out of his sight until he pries every last secret from her full, sexy lips. And suddenly Emma’s aching to give him everything he wants.

••••••••••••••••

REVIEW: TWISTED is the second installment in Cynthia Eden’s adult, contemporary LOST romantic suspense series focusing on the men and women who work for LOST (Last Option Search Team). This is former FBI special agent Dean Bannon ( first introduced in book one BROKEN ) and Emma Castille’s storyline. Although TWISTED is the second storyline in the series, it can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty.

Told from several third person points of view including the killer himself, TWISTED focuses on the search for a serial killer in New Orleans, Louisiana- a man Dean Bannon believed to be dead. Dean Bannon has struggled for five years with the death of an informant caught in a serial killer’s web but with the recent number of missing men and women, Dean believes the killer has returned and has set his sights on Emma Castille. What ensues is a developing relationship between Dean and Emma as Dean convinces Emma that he is her best protection against a psychotic killer. When the FBI become involved things go from bad to worse as Dean’s prior history with the Bureau makes for some unwelcome partnerships and exchange of information.

The relationship between Dean and Emma is quick to develop; an immediate attraction between two people whose lives are about to be targeted by a man seeking revenge for the sins of the past. When a woman fitting Emma’s description is attacked and left for dead, Dean and the agents from LOST begin an investigation of their own.

The colorful and charismatic secondary characters include the members and agent of LOST: LOST’s owner and lead investigator Gabe Spencer, forensic specialist Victoria Palmer, psychiatrist and profiler Dr. Sarah Jacobs, and former detective Wade Monroe; FBI agents Kevin McCormack and James Elroy, as well as a Julia Finney-the young woman who becomes the target of a serial killer and the FBI. We are also introduced to Jax Fontaine-a hard as nails bad boy, bar owner who has eyes and a protective side for Sarah Jacobs. Jax is introduced as Emma’s ex lover, and his presence adds a little twist of jealousy to Emma and Dean’s relationship.

TWISTED is another suspense filled storyline with a ‘twisted’ path to reveal. Although I guessed the serial killer’s identity early on, some readers may be kept in suspense until the clues begin to reveal. Expectation, presumption and the possibility of two killers on the loose, adds another layer of unexpected tension and drama.

Cynthia Eden has the ability to connect with her readers; she knows what we like and continues to deliver with every storyline and series.

Copy supplied by the publisher through Edelweiss

Reviewed by Sandy

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Broken (LOST #1) by Cynthia Eden-a review

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BROKEN (LOST #1) by Cynthia Eden-a review

Broken

Amazon.com / B&N / KOBO / The Book Depository

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date March 31, 2015

The first novel in New York Times bestselling author Cynthia Eden’s sizzling LOST series introduces the Last Option Search Team, an elite unit that must protect the only surviving victim of a serial killer.

Ex-SEAL and LOST founder Gabe Spencer is accustomed to the unusual in his job. But when knockout Eve Gray steps into his office, he’s rattled. For the mysterious woman is a dead ringer for the heiress thought to be the latest prey of the serial killer who goes by the name Lady Killer.

When Eve awoke in an Atlanta hospital, her past was a blank slate. Then she recognized her own face in the newspaper and vowed to learn the truth. Determined to confront the nightmares hidden in her mind, she never expects to find a partner in Gabe.

As Gabe and Eve work together, their explosive attraction becomes irresistible. Gabe knows that his desire for Eve is growing too strong, bordering on a dangerous obsession, but nothing pulls him away from her. And when another Eve lookalike disappears, Gabe vows to protect Eve at all costs. While Eve may have forgotten the killer in her past, it’s clear he hasn’t forgotten her.

•••••••••••••••••••••••

REVIEW: BROKEN is the first installment in Cynthia Eden’s adult, contemporary LOST romantic suspense series focusing on the men and women of LOST (Last Option Search Team). This is former Navy SEAL and LOST founder Gabe Spencer, and artist/painter Eve Gray’s storyline.

Told from several third person perspectives the storyline follows Eve Gray as she endeavors to uncover her past, her memories, and truth about what happened years before. A tortured and concussed Eve awoke in an Atlanta hospital with no memory and no idea what had happened; her only clue is a newspaper photo where a missing heiress who looks identical to Eve is said to be a victim of a serial murderer dubbed the Lady Killer. When the authorities refuse to believe her story, Eve seeks out the one person she hopes will help-Gabe Spencer-a virtual stranger but a man she knows will ‘find’ the truth. As Gabe begins to piece together what little information Eve can supply, our couple find themselves on Dauphin Island, Alabama where everyone knows Eve as Jessica Montgomery. What ensues is the unraveling of a suspense filled mystery, where a serial killer has targeted women who look exactly like the woman in question. As Eve’s memory returns, the killer strikes again leaving a path of clues in his wake. I guessed the identity of the killer almost immediately upon introduction although some readers may interpret differently the information and clues.

The relationship between Eve and Gabe is one of immediate attraction but Gabe refuses to become involved with his client-even a beautiful and broken client such as Eve Gray. When Gabe suspects that the killer is close, his only recourse is to keep Eve closer; so close that our couple with eventually act upon their mutual attraction and sexual desires. The $ex scenes are intimate, realistic and moving. There are no erotic, graphic depictions but there is some definite fire and heat.

The spirited secondary and supporting characters include the members and agents of LOST: ex FBI agent Dean Bannon, forensic specialist Victoria Palmer, psychiatrist and profiler Sarah Jacobs, and former detective Wade Monroe. We are introduced to the inhabitants of Dauphin Island including Jessica’s ex boyfriend police chief Trey Wallace, and her brother Pierce Montgomery. Many of the locals have a colorful history; Trey and Pierce are all too willing to reveal Jessica’s sordid past. Cynthia takes us into the mind of a killer: his thoughts, his desires, his need for revenge all the while he plans and searches for his next intended victim.

BROKEN is a story of suspense; a murder mystery where a series of missing and murdered women resemble the one who got away. Cynthia Eden writes with passion and imagination. Her characters are real; their emotions tangible; and their histories heartbreaking. BROKEN is a fantastic start to a new series.

Copy supplied by Edelweiss.

Reviewed by Sandy

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Need Me (Dark Obsession #3) by Cynthia Eden-a review

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Need Me (Dark Obsession #3) by Cynthia Eden-a review

Need Me

Amazon.com / B&N / KOBO /

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date February 24, 2015

Innocent…or guilty?

The cops think that Julianna Smith is a murderer. No one will listen when Julianna claims she’s innocent, and as the suspicions mount against her, only Julianna knows the truth…a killer is hunting her. Somewhere in the darkness, a stalker is closing in and preparing to deliver a final justice that she can’t escape.

He’s her only option.

Devlin Shade isn’t a man who trusts easily, and when Julianna Smith walks into VJS Protection, he’s well aware of her reputation—the sexy blond could be a cold-blooded murderer. Only when he looks at her, cold is the last thing that Devlin feels. There’s an instant attraction between them—hot, fierce, primal. And he agrees to take her case. He’ll be her bodyguard. He’ll keep her safe from the enemy hunting her, and he’ll also find out the truth about the mysterious Julianna. If she is a killer, he’ll turn her over to the cops himself.

She can’t let him get too close…

Julianna knows that she is walking a dangerous line with Devlin. She never expected to want him so much, and as they grow closer, she realizes that he’s working to uncover her secrets. But the secrets that she carries are worth killing for…and she can’t let anyone discover the truth, not even Devlin.

Killer or victim…

Soon the thin line between right and wrong is blurred. For Devlin, the case becomes personal, and all that matters is Julianna—keeping her safe and stopping the stalker who is on her trail. As he slides deeper into Julianna’s dangerous world, Devlin’s own darkness rises up. He’s played the good guy for so long, but now his mask is falling away. He isn’t controlled, he isn’t safe, and when Julianna is threatened, he will cross any line to keep her safe.

••••••••••••

REVIEW: NEED ME is the third installment in Cynthia Eden’s adult, contemporary Dark Obsession romance suspense series focusing on three friends who run VJS Protection. This is tech expert Devlin Shade and Julianna Smith’s storyline. NEED ME can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty.

Told from third person point of view the focus of the storyline is protecting Julianna Smith. She is the prime suspect in her husband’s murder; all clues point towards Julianna’s guilt; but Julianna remembers nothing about the night her husband died. With numerous threats and attempts on her life, Julianna is in need of a bodyguard and protection. Enter Devlin Shade, the ‘S’ in VJS Protection and the man who isn’t so sure Julianna is free of guilt.

The relationship between Julianna and Devlin begins when Devlin names himself Julianna’s protector. VJS Protection was recommended to Julianna for their high end protection and anonymity, as well their ability to get the job done but the more Devlin begins to dig into Julianna’s story, the more holes and lies continue to emerge. If Julianna didn’t kill her husband, why are there so many people trying to end her life? Julianna and Devlin’s attraction to one another is immediate and intense; a case of insta love/insta lust that does not go unnoticed by the people in charge. The $ex scenes are impulsive, hot and steamy.

Julianna is a woman possessed to prove her innocence but is she truly innocent of the crime she has been accused of committing? At every opportunity Julianna refuses to expose the people she loves to possibility of danger but in doing so, she lies by omission and bending the truth; and runs at every opportunity placing herself and Devlin in danger. Devlin is unable to put his complete trust in the woman he has been hired to protect with his life. Some of Julianna’s actions are difficult to accept and understand.

The secondary characters include a brief appearance by Devlin’s business partners Chance and Lex, as well as Detective Faith Chestang and Ethan Barclay-all of whom we met in the previous storylines and installments. WE are also introduced to Julianna’s sister Carly-a woman both Ethan and Julianna are trying desperately to protect; and of course the requisite evil-who may or may not be someone Julianna knows.

NEED ME is a quick read; a fast paced and suspense filled storyline with twists, turns, and accusations all directed at destroying Julianna’s life. Cynthia Eden builds the storyline momentum with action, tension and doubt proving that a true detective should never stop looking for every possible clue. There are moments of drama and suspense; passion and romance; anguish and the destructive nature of jealousy and greed. Cynthia Eden pulls you into a roller coaster of ..did she or didn’t she?

Reading Order

Watch Me
Want Me
Need Me

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

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