A RISING STAR WITH EVERYTHING TO LOSE.

As Hollywood’s newest darling, Becca Sandoza is vigilant about guarding the image and reputation she’s so carefully created. Her career has allowed her to escape her past, but her newfound fame turns out to be a sharp double-edged sword. The nightmare she’s been trying to escape for twenty years has resurfaced. The man responsible knows all her secrets, and his silence comes at a heavy price. She’ll do whatever it takes to keep the past buried and protect the person she cares about most. But when it seems like she’s trapped with no way out, Becca finally turns to the one man she can trust—the one man capable of making her body burn and her heart ache with a yearning she’s never felt before.

THE ONLY MAN WHO CAN PROTECT HER.

Chase Davenport took everything he learned as a Marine Corps combat veteran and is now a sought-after stuntman. Hollywood is every bit as competitive and unpredictable as he expected, but the biggest surprise so far is Becca Sandoza. She’s got a reputation as an ice queen with the media, but it’s clear to him that’s only a mask she puts on to protect herself. Behind the scenes she’s down to earth, kind, and just being around her brings out all his protective instincts. So when she comes to him for help with a dangerous situation, he steps up. She might be totally out of his league, but the more time they spend together, it quickly becomes clear there’s more between them than scorching chemistry. And when the threat suddenly escalates with no warning, Chase will do anything to save her—no matter the cost.

From the beginning of this book we learn that Becca Sandoza has a major problem. She’s being blackmailed and sees no possible way out of it. Her blackmailer Rick knows secrets of her past and she’s not letting them out, ever. We also get a glimpse of the relationship she has with her mother at the beginning and the bond there is undeniable. She doesn’t have to be on set for the stunt chase but she couldn’t help herself. There’s just something about her co-star’s stunt man that attracts her and it’s not just his good looks.

Chase Davenport and his best friend Ryder are doing a really intense chase scene. It’s the cumulation of much planning and and practice. You can feel the intensity as they go through the scene with the stops and starts to get all the angles. Then with climax with Chase bursting into flames. I swear I was holding my breath.

With Becca’s co-star leaving to start a new project Chase has more scenes with her. One in particular reveals more to Chase than Becca realizes. Her past comes flying back to her as they do that final take. The emotions that flood her have her fleeing after the wrap, but she does seek Chase out later.

We meet Becca’s mother and I really loved the strength she imparts to Becca, the courage to go after what she wants. It was her mother who convinces her to go visit Chase, let him know how she feels.

This is a favorite scene after she arrives at Chase’s home and following dinner with his family.

It gave her pause and made her wonder. Was it better to have experienced that love and security and then lose it? Or was it best to never experience it at all?

She wasn’t sure which caused less damage to a child, but it underscored an important point. Chase and her had something else in common—childhood trauma and loss. “I don’t know who my dad is.”

“Oh.”

That was it. No stunned silence, no shocked exclamation or a barrage of questions. Just calm acceptance.

The invisible knots that had been tightening in her stomach eased. She turned to face him, trying to remember all the reasons why she shouldn’t go straddle his lap and wrap herself around him right now. That hard, powerful body under her while she kissed that sexy mouth, poised, ready to take over.

A shiver sped through her. She crossed her arms over her chest and glanced out the window, trying to rein in that train of thought. “It’s gorgeous out. Can we go sit on the dock for a while?”

“Sure.”

He led her outside into the warm, balmy evening air. The cicadas were already singing, the deep blue western horizon across the water was edged with a thin line of orange as they walked to the end of the dock and sat on the deck chairs waiting there.

The water slid past with barely a ripple disturbing the surface, reflecting the stars winking to life overhead. She’d often thought about Chase’s home over the past few months, wondering what it was like. It suited him perfectly.

She settled back with her water bottle, pulled in a deep breath and sighed, letting the peace flow over her. “This is heaven back here.”

He shot her a sideways glanced and grinned. “Okay. I mean, it’s nice, but it’s not like what you must be used to in LA.”

He’d be surprised about that. “I’m serious. It’s private, gorgeous, and you just…belong here. I don’t feel that way about LA anymore.”

“This is home,” he said simply. “I miss it when I’m gone for long stretches. Well, mostly I miss my family. But I love my job and the traveling I get to do because of it. What do you mean you don’t feel that way anymore? I thought you loved LA.”

It felt comfortable to be alone with him like this. No pressure, no ulterior motives. He wasn’t trying to get her into bed, or angling for a favor or introduction to someone. He simply allowed her to be.

He would never know how great a gift that was for her.

“I used to. But since I became ‘famous,’” she said, using air quotes, “it’s different. And someone tried to break into my place the other night.”

His expression darkened. “Were you home?”

“Yes. The alarm scared the intruder off, and one of my neighbors ran over to check on me. The police couldn’t ID the suspect, and the whole incident made me feel…violated in a way.”

“I’m glad you’re okay. Is that why you came out to see your mom?”

“Partly.”

He nodded. “Are you getting a security upgrade?”

“Yes.” Not that she could afford it right now. Her agent was currently trying to find her a few smaller projects to work on before her next shoot, to generate some cash. “Anyway, can we talk about something else?”

He watched her for a moment, then relented and eased back in his chair. “Sure.”

They talked until the moon rose and the sky turned a deep, midnight blue, a cascade of stars winking down at them. So many compared to what the light and smog-polluted skies in LA allowed her to see.

They shared stories about the film industry. How she got started in TV. He laughed out loud when she told him a funny story about an audition gone wrong when she was first starting out, the sound so perfect that warmth pooled low in her belly.

He seemed so real. Was he just an illusion? Could he really be as genuine as he seemed?

It was hard for her to trust people. To let them in. She’d learned to protect herself that way a long time ago, and Hollywood had reinforced that lesson. She didn’t want to find out Chase had fooled her too.

She loved every second of this precious, stolen time with him and dreaded the thought of it coming to an end. But when she failed to smother a yawn convincingly, convincingly, he sat up. “Come on, time to turn in before you fall asleep on me.”

She got up just as he reached her chair. Instead of pulling her close or leaning in for a kiss, he walked past her into the house.

She followed, surprised by the surge of disappointment, and berated herself. He’d made it clear he wasn’t going to make a move and after what she’d done, she couldn’t blame him. And it wasn’t fair to go down that road with him again anyway.

She’d seen the way he was with his family, with Ryder. He was loyal, caring, and everything she knew about him said he was into commitment. She couldn’t give him anything resembling a normal relationship. Better to leave it alone, no matter how much she wished it could be different.

Upstairs he got her clean towels and showed her to the guest room. It warmed her insides how he took care of her. He hid it well, but the look in his eyes told her he still wanted her.

Not that he said or did anything about it. Even though they were alone. Even though she’d walked out on him that night, and even though he could have made things awkward between them because of it. In fact, he was doing everything possible to make it the opposite of awkward.

Another wave of longing hit her, so strong it made her chest hurt. She was sick of not being able to have a normal life. Of the world seeing her as some kind of sex object. Of people assuming she was a stuck-up bitch just because she valued and guarded her privacy.

She wanted a man to accept her for who she was. She wanted to be loved for who she truly was, and couldn’t bear to be hurt or betrayed and have her heart broken by someone she trusted. Especially not Chase. She couldn’t handle that.

The urge to go to him intensified. But no. She wouldn’t risk hurting or confusing him any more than she already had.

So she laid in the double bed and curled up on her side, fighting the sting of tears. Chase was the only man she’d ever trusted. And she couldn’t afford to lose the only real friend she had.
Cross, Kaylea. Adrift (Kill Devil Hills Book 3). Kindle Locations (1565-1618) Kaylea Cross Inc. . Kindle Edition.

Becca has much fear to overcome and Chase is relentless in pursuing the truth. Things get more than just a little hairy as Becca’s blackmailer, Rick gets more desperate.

I love this family, the Outerbanks and Kill Devil Hills. The sizzle between Becca and Chase is palpable but the trust has to come first.

I couldn’t put this book down, it’s the perfect wrap up to the trilogy.

5 Contented Purrs for Kaylea!

Kaylea Cross

New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Kaylea Cross writes edge-of-your-seat military romantic suspense. Her work has won many awards and has been nominated for both the Daphne du Maurier and the National Readers’ Choice Awards. A Registered Massage Therapist by trade, Kaylea is also an avid gardener, artist, Civil War buff, Special Ops aficionado, belly dance enthusiast and former nationally-carded softball pitcher. She lives in Vancouver, BC with her husband and family.

Keep your friends close.

Harper Sorenson’s husband died during a security contracting job in Syria more than a year ago. The official report said he was killed in an enemy ambush, but she doesn’t buy it. And until she knows the truth, she can’t move on. When someone tries to silence her, she knows she’s on the right track. Unfortunately, now she has no choice but to rely on the man she blames for everything—her dead husband’s best friend.

And your enemies closer.

Jared Blackmore was there the day Pete died. Gravely wounded himself in the ambush, he still can’t remember everything that happened. His own search for answers results in resistance from every angle, and he begins to fear the worst—that they’re dealing with a cover up. With Harper now in danger, he drops everything to protect her. He might have promised Pete that he would take care of her, but it’s far more personal than that, and he’s worried he won’t be able to hide his attraction any longer. With the bodies piling up and danger closing in, they don’t know who to trust. He must uncover the truth before it’s too late—before they both wind up dead—and before she figures out exactly how much she means to him.

Harper’s husband Pete died while on a security contracting job in Syria. The report she received from the company doesn’t add up and she wants the truth. She’s been contacting men who worked with Pete and finally one answered her, Tanner. She’s about to meet with him alone, with her brother on the phone, when Tanner’s shot.

In the ensuing chaos, Jared sneaks into her car. He’s been following her to protect her, but she blames him for Pete’s death and for encouraging him to take the job to begin with. The problem is Jared was seriously injured on that same mission and no one is talking to him either. He can’t remember it, he was in a coma and with a severe TBI he doesn’t know if he ever will. That’s why he’s been looking for the same answers, the report from the company has holes and he needs the truth to find peace.

Jared convinces Harper to accept his help and then things start to heat up in more ways than one. With Harper’s brothers helping on the sidelines to keep them out of the line of fire, information is coming but with consequences.

Fast-paced, action-packed with some laughter, tears and a simmer to sizzle romance.

5 Contented Purrs for Kaylea!

Kaylea Cross

New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Kaylea Cross writes edge-of-your-seat military romantic suspense. Her work has won many awards and has been nominated for both the Daphne du Maurier and the National Readers’ Choice Awards. A Registered Massage Therapist by trade, Kaylea is also an avid gardener, artist, Civil War buff, Special Ops aficionado, belly dance enthusiast and former nationally-carded softball pitcher. She lives in Vancouver, BC with her husband and family.

She’s looking to reinvent herself.

After the worst two years of her life, Aspen Savich has just moved across the country to the Outer Banks, looking to start over and leave her painful past behind. But it follows her anyway, bringing consequences she never could have imagined. Someone is watching her. Targeting her—and they don’t care who gets in the way. She has no one to turn to except the sexy local mechanic who has found a way past all her defenses, never dreaming the kind of danger they’re up against.

He’s about to have his world turned upside down.

Tragedy made Coast Guard veteran Bowie Davenport withdraw from the world around him. He’s lived in Kill Devil Hills his whole life, focusing on work and family. Being alone is something he made peace with long ago—until the sexiest woman he’s ever seen pulls up to his garage in a little red Woody asking for help. There’s no way he can say no, even with his unwanted attraction to her. He tries to fight it, but soon he’s fallen completely under her spell. And when the unthinkable happens, he won’t hesitate to stand between her and the deranged enemy bent on taking her life.

Aspen Savich sure knows how to make an impression, dressed in the era of her vintage car she visits Bowie Davenport’s garage. She’d been told he’s the best mechanic to fix her car.

For Bowie it’s just another day of running from his past and going to work, until his brother shows up. Chase has been working as a stuntman since he left the military and rarely finds his way home. This is a nice surprise for Bowie and he doesn’t waste time putting Chase to work as they catch up. At least until they here an old motor and she walks in.

This is a favorite scene.

He nodded and paused in the act of setting his wrench down on the workbench at the sound of an old motor outside, driving along the side of the garage. He and Chase looked at each other, both of them trying to figure out what it was, an old game they’d played since Chase was young.

Chase pursed his lips in thought. “Mini?”

Bowie shook his head. “Nah. Wrong pitch.”

A minute later, Barb appeared in the doorway in her shorts and tank top. She aimed a megawatt smile at Chase, twirling a lock of her long blond hair in her fingers before turning her attention to Bowie. “There’s a lady here to see you about her car.”

“Be right there.” He wiped his hands on a rag and followed her, Chase right behind him. No surprise. His little brother was notoriously nosy.

The instant Bowie walked around the corner and saw the woman in question, his feet stopped moving. Chase was so close behind him he had to veer to the side at the last second to avoid hitting him. “You forget how to walk or something?” he said to Bowie on a laugh.

Bowie didn’t answer, too busy staring at the newcomer. Because it was impossible not to.

She was a bit younger than him, maybe early thirties, dressed in a black, fifties-style halter dress with cherries on it, the fabric hugging incredibly lush curves before stopping just below her knees. Both rounded arms were covered in colorful tats from shoulder to elbow. Her shapely calves were bare, leading his eyes down to the sexy, lipstick-red heels on her feet.

With effort, Bowie dragged his gaze back up to her face. Her long, deep brown hair was pulled back from her face in a red cloth headband, except for a shock of white that fell over the right side of her forehead. Heavy black eyeliner defined her upper lids, emphasizing incredible pale green eyes that had him frozen where he stood. A small gold hoop glinted in the side of her nose, and her lips were slicked with glossy red lipstick.

When he didn’t say anything she raised her eyebrows at him in question. “Mr. Davenport?”

Her accent instantly told him she was from somewhere out west, if he wasn’t mistaken. And shit, he was staring like an idiot. “Yeah, that’s me. How can I help you?” he managed once he got his brain back in gear.

“My car needs some work. She’s old.”

“You came to the right place. I’m his younger brother, by the way. Chase,” his brother said, hurrying forward to extend his hand.

She shook it, gave him a polite smile and then dismissed him, focusing back on Bowie. It surprised him as much as it did Chase. His charismatic, Hollywood-handsome brother wasn’t used to being dismissed by the ladies. “I just got into town a few days ago. When I asked around, your name kept coming up as the best with old cars. I don’t have an appointment, but I thought I’d come by and see if—”

“What kind of car?” Bowie asked, more intrigued by her than the mystery car parked outside. He couldn’t remember the last time that had happened.

“’59 Morris.”

British car. Chase hadn’t been that far off after all. “Sure, I’ll take a look.”

She turned away and started for the door, the full skirt of the dress swaying with each step. Bowie followed, unable to tear his eyes from her hips and the tantalizing indent of her waist emphasized by the shiny red belt around it. Damn, those curves should be illegal.

He beat her to the door by a second and held it open for her. She was pretty tall. In her heels she was almost at eye level with him, and he was six-two.

“Thank you,” she murmured and stepped through, giving him a whiff of delicious, sweet-tart citrus on the way past.

He darted a glance back at his brother, who grinned at him, and fought a smile. Wasn’t every day a woman like that walked into his garage.

The noon heat hit him as soon as he stepped outside, and found the lady standing beside a fire engine-red Morris Minor Traveller. “A Woody,” he murmured, unable to hold back a smile. The quintessential surfer vehicle, its back half framed by iconic wood accents.

She nodded and gave him a pleased smile. “Yes, this is Priscilla.” She ran a hand over the curve of the hood, her glossy nails almost a perfect match for the paint color as her fingers caressed it. Bowie wouldn’t mind having her stroke him like that.

“Is something wrong with her?” he asked.

“Apart from being old? I’m not sure, I’ve only had her a couple days. She makes a strange sound when I accelerate. I wanted to get her checked out and fixed up, just to be on the safe side.” She ran her hand over the edge of the roof, the motion elegant and sensual at the same time. “She’s sentimental to me.”

“She’s a beauty.” Not nearly as gorgeous as her owner, but still. “Pop the hood for me.”

She opened the driver’s door and leaned over to pop the latch, giving him a view of the muscles in her bare calves in those sexy heels, the nip of her waist and the flare of her skirt giving him an instant visual of what she’d look like underneath it. Full, lush curves a man could explore for hours. Curves he could wrap his hands around and hold onto while he eased into her from behind.

The thought came unbidden, startling him. He hadn’t thought those kinds of things about someone he’d just met in forever.

Behind him, Chase cleared his throat. Bowie snapped to attention and walked around to the driver’s side door as the woman straightened. He slid into the caramel-colored seat, once again getting a whiff of her clean, tart scent. Yum. “Let’s start her up and see what the old girl tells us.”

He fired up the engine. The starter took a few seconds to catch. There was a definite lag, and when he gave it gas, the high-pitched squeal indicated a potential problem with the belts.

After giving a few other things a cursory check, he turned off the ignition and looked up at the woman. She stood next to Chase, completely ignoring his brother as she cupped her elbows, her full attention on Bowie.

He felt the impact of that pale green gaze all the way to his center. “I’d say she definitely needs a little TLC.”

“I know you’ve barely looked at her, but can you give me a ballpark estimate of cost, just so I have an idea of what I’m looking at?”

He named a price range. “I’ve got time to look at her early tomorrow afternoon, if that works.”

“That’s perfect.” With that she turned and headed straight back inside. Chase lunged over to grab the door for her. Bowie managed to beat him through it, entering right behind the woman, and came to stand at the desk with her while she booked the appointment.

“What’s your name?” Barb asked her with a bright smile.

“Aspen Savich.”

Aspen. A name as unique and sexy as she was.

Barb typed in her name and cell number, then looked at Bowie. “Do you figure you’ll have it ready by closing tomorrow night?”

“Barring any unforeseen problems or special parts I need to order in, yeah.” He turned back to Aspen, caught off guard by the strange tug deep in his gut when their gazes connected. He’d forgotten what that felt like. “But if I come across a problem I’ll call to check with you before doing anything. Right now, I’m just thinking a basic tune-up and checking the belts, nothing too bad.”

She nodded. “Sounds good. Thanks very much.” “No problem.” He held out his hand. “I’m Bowie, by the way.”

She gave him a mysterious smile, those pale green eyes holding a trace of amusement as she accepted his hand. “I know,” she murmured.

The moment their palms touched, he felt that tug deep inside him again. Her skin was soft and warm.

Withdrawing her hand, she glanced at the three of them. “Thanks a lot. I’ll see you tomorrow.” Those amazing eyes shifted to him again, and this time there was no mistaking the leap of attraction inside him. He didn’t like it. “Unless I hear from you sooner.”

With those flirtatious parting words, she slid a pair of oversized dark sunglasses on and walked out. Bowie stared at the closed door for a long moment, her scent still lingering faintly in the air. The sound of the Morris starting shook him out of his stupor and he spun around to head back to the shop.
Cross, Kaylea. Undercurrent (Kill Devil Hills Book 1). Kindle Locations (145-210). Kaylea Cross Inc.. Kindle Edition.

Now other than the beautiful woman that has Bowie feeling things he hasn’t for years, neither he nor Chase have spoken to their sister Harper in over a week. This is unusual for her and they’re both concerned.

Now Aspen has a project, a large home on the ocean side of the Outerbanks in the Kill Devil Hills. Part of the inheritance from her great uncle. She’s in the process of repairing and renovating so she can live here. At least she hopes so. So many things were still up in the air. Including a possible appeal since her uncle’s grandson seems to think it should all be his. I love the neighbor and the dog.

Bowie’s sister Harper decides to come for a visit, she’s got some things going on and really needs to be with her family for a bit.

There’s plenty of suspense in this one as Aspen becomes friends with all of them. She’s really afraid her past will destroy the budding friendships and the romantic and sizzling one forming with Bowie.

I can’t wait to read the next book in this series.

5 Contented Purrs for Kaylea!

Kaylea Cross

New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Kaylea Cross writes edge-of-your-seat military romantic suspense. Her work has won many awards and has been nominated for both the Daphne du Maurier and the National Readers’ Choice Awards. A Registered Massage Therapist by trade, Kaylea is also an avid gardener, artist, Civil War buff, Special Ops aficionado, belly dance enthusiast and former nationally-carded softball pitcher. She lives in Vancouver, BC with her husband and family.

She’s on the verge of realizing her dream.

Christa Bailey is one cut away from making the Olympic softball team when threats from an obsessed fan jeopardize her dream and her safety. Forced to put her life on hold until the risk is eliminated, she reluctantly turns to ERT officer Rayne Hutchinson for help, praying the police catch her stalker before she is cut from the team or does something stupid… like fall in love with her unattainable protector.

But her dream has turned into a nightmare.

Having served in the Marine Corps before becoming a cop, Rayne is no stranger to threats. But Christa is worth fighting for, and her stalker is something far more sinister than either of them could have imagined. When the worst happens and her life at stake, Rayne will be forced to put everything on the line to save her.

This book opens at one of Christa’s softball games. There are scouts there and she’s hoping to make the National Team and head to the Olympics. She’s also noticed a fan who’s beginning to be more of a stalker. It bothers her that his comments can break through her concentration on the game, but when he waits for her and follows her to her car she’s more than a little concerned.

She heads to her best friend’s instead of home because of the creepy feelings left by the guy. Teryl and Drew are very protective of her after her last break up so when she offers Rayne a ride home that instinct comes to the fore. Christa however really likes Rayne and he certainly wants to know her better.

This is a favorite scene.

“I can take you home,” Christa blurted. The others looked at her. “I’m heading home anyway, so I can drop you off on my way. If you’re okay with it,” she added, hoping she wasn’t blushing.

“That’d be great,” Rayne said.

Drew regarded Rayne with an arched brow. “We can trust you to behave yourself alone with Christa, right?”

Rayne winked at her, sending her pulse skyrocketing. “Maybe.”

Christa laughed. “I love it when you get all protective of me. Makes me feel all warm and fuzzy inside.”

“Damn right we’re protective of you.” Teryl had a habit of referring to Christa’s ex as ‘The Shithead’, which was true enough, but she tended to go overboard with the overprotective thing.

Christa picked up the bag holding her dirty uniform and spoke to Rayne. “You ready to leave?”

“Sure.”

At the door Teryl leaned up and kissed Rayne’s cheek, then rubbed away the lipstick mark. “Okay, go off and save the world for us tomorrow. But don’t shoot anyone unless you have to.”

“I’ll try and restrain myself,” he said, and let Christa precede him outside. The cool night air was damp and smelled of freshly cut grass, stars twinkling overhead. He followed her to her truck and opened her door for her.

“Oh, thanks,” she said and scrambled up into the cab. She couldn’t remember the last time anyone had opened her door for her.

“You’re welcome.” He even closed her door before rounding the hood and climbing in himself. The truck suddenly seemed small with him in it. Well over six feet tall, broad through the chest and shoulders, he made her feel petite and fragile, and with a five-eight medium build, that was saying something. He dominated whatever space he occupied, his confidence so absolute she’d once mistaken it for arrogance. Now she understood he was a natural leader, an alpha male who just happened to be loaded with charisma and sex appeal. As the notches on his bedpost no doubt proved.

She started the ignition and pulled out of the driveway. “You live down by the beach, right?” No sense tipping him off that she’d committed every detail she knew about him to memory. Kind of obsessed, like her stalker, but way less scary. And more pathetic.

As she thought of her fan her eyes scanned the street to see if anyone was following her, but nothing suspicious caught her attention.

“Just down from the pier, on Marine Drive.”

“You must have an incredible view.”

“It’s pretty tough to take, all right.” He swiveled his head to study her, and her fingers tightened on the steering wheel. “Where’s your place? How come I’ve never been there?”

“Huh?” She shot him a glance. That had come so far out of left field she wasn’t sure she’d heard him correctly.

“Drew and Teryl are always talking about how they go over there all the time, but you’ve never asked me over with them. There a reason for that?”

“No, I swear. I promise, next time I’ll invite you too. Deal?”

“Deal.”

As he settled back into the seat with a creak of his leather jacket, she caught the tangy scent of his citrusy cologne. It was cruel for a man she couldn’t touch to be so beautiful and smell that good. She had to fight the urge to lean over and breathe him in. Instead, she checked the rearview mirror to make sure she still wasn’t being followed. As awesome a distraction as Rayne was, she couldn’t forget about that weird encounter it the parking lot.

Through her open window, the salt of the ocean teased her nose, the lone cry of a seagull blending with the quiet background music of the radio. In the distance the shadowy forms of the San Juan and Gulf Islands rose out of the Strait of Georgia, the lights of Semiahmoo Resort winking from across the bay. Moonlight shimmered silver across the water, silhouetting the gentle contours of the shore. Crescent-shaped tide pools on the exposed sand glimmered like a scalloped lace hem that stretched the length of the beach. On Marine Drive they headed east, past the people strolling along the promenade and the illuminated pier jutting into the dark tide, past the gift shops, restaurants and ice cream parlors, the trees lit year-round by delicate strands of lights.

With Rayne beside her, she let herself relax. Maybe she was too wound up about this whole stalker thing, she thought as she checked the mirror again. If he hadn’t followed her to Teryl’s, and he wasn’t following her now, then chances were—

“Something wrong?”

She glanced at Rayne, then focused back on the road. “No, why?”

“You seem distracted, and you keep looking in your rearview like you expect to find someone behind us.”

His bang-on observation left her speechless. Maybe she should tell him. He was a cop. But what if Seth was harmless and she was just overreacting? Last thing she wanted was for Rayne to think she was a head case. “Sorry. It’s nothing.”

“Okay.” He let it go. “My building’s on the left at the next corner.” He indicated a condo complex in sleek lines of stucco and glass.

“There you are,” she announced, pulling to the curb. “Front door service with a smile.”

He tipped his head. “And a beautiful one at that. Thanks for the lift.” His grin had her heart tripping.

Flattered, but not allowing herself to dwell on it, she shrugged. “Anytime.” He climbed out of the truck, his jeans hugging his powerful thighs and butt, and she had to will her heart to slow down.

“Don’t forget to call me,” he reminded her as he turned around and shut the door.

“I won’t.” She was more likely to forget to breathe.

“I’ll give you my cell number. That’s the best way to reach me.” He searched in his pocket for a piece of paper and pen, then leaned on the truck to write. “No excuse now.”

“Thanks.” Her schedule was so crazy, between work and ball— “Wait … how about tomorrow night? For dinner,” she clarified when he stood there frowning. She cleared her throat. “I know it’s short notice, but I don’t know when else I’m—”

“I work until seven. Seven-thirty okay?”

Relief flooded her. “Sure. I’ll invite Teryl and Drew too.”

“Okay. Give me your address.”

She recited it, said goodnight and rolled up the passenger window, then pressed a hand to her galloping heart.

Pulling out her cell phone, she asked her oldest friend to be there tomorrow night and Teryl agreed.

Driving away, she glanced in her rearview mirror, but Rayne had already disappeared inside. Well, of course he had, she told herself. Only the weirdoes watched until you were out of sight.
Cross, Kaylea. Out of Her League (Suspense Series Book 1) Kindle Locations (187-249). Kaylea Cross. Kindle Edition.

The dinner party for all her friends takes a turn and it becomes just Rayne and Christa. Totally not a bad thing, but when the conversation turns to her stalker Rayne is more than willing to attend a game to evaluate the situation. A situation that escalates when Christa is injured during the game.

Between the stalker’s moves and the mutual attraction between Christa and Rayne, I couldn’t stop turning the pages.

Intrigue, suspense, romance, sizzle and so much more!

5 Contented Purrs for Kaylea!

Kaylea Cross

New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Kaylea Cross writes edge-of-your-seat military romantic suspense. Her work has won many awards and has been nominated for both the Daphne du Maurier and the National Readers’ Choice Awards. A Registered Massage Therapist by trade, Kaylea is also an avid gardener, artist, Civil War buff, Special Ops aficionado, belly dance enthusiast and former nationally-carded softball pitcher. She lives in Vancouver, BC with her husband and family.

She’s been hurt too many times…

Single mom Tiana Fitzgerald has sworn off all romantic relationships to protect herself and her daughter. Her track record is disastrous and she’s done getting hurt. But a certain sexy Scotsman in Crimson Point has other ideas, and somehow manages to sneak past her defenses at every turn. As the hits keep coming and her life implodes, she begins to see he’s unlike any man she’s ever known. Now he’s become the greatest threat to her heart, because there’s no possible future for them. Not when he’s leaving the country in a few weeks. And when her worst fears are realized, she must risk everything by placing her trust in in his hands.

He’s determined to capture her heart.

Scotsman Aidan MacIntyre never saw the fiery, beautiful Tiana coming. The prickly redhead has gotten under his skin as badly as he wants to get under hers. But she’s determined to keep walls between them. Luckily the former Royal Marine doesn’t know how to give up. Someone from her past wants to hurt her, but Aidan will stand between her and any threat. He’ll stop at nothing to protect her and the little girl who have completely stolen his heart—and fight for them to have a future together.

Aiden really loves his job here with Beckett, unfortunately his work visa is expiring and it doesn’t look like he’ll be able to get it renewed. This is especially disturbing since he wants to stay and he wants a chance to be more than a friend to Tiana.

Tiana is very protective of Ella more so than ever since the truth of her ex Brian has come to light. In this book she has another problem, Ella’s father, Evan, the musician who left them high and dry now wants his parental rights. By paying back child support he will also be able to meet Ella. We get to meet Lizzie, Tiana’s aunt who is quite the character. She gives us plenty of insight into their lives. Tiana also has a meeting with Evan prior to the visitation which will supervised by a court advocate. The meeting went well but it would still be Ella’s decision.

This is a favorite scene after that meeting.

On the drive home she geared up for the conversation she had to have with her daughter that night. There’d been no word yet from Brian’s lawyer about whether he was going to take the plea bargain or not. And if Ella didn’t object, she would meet with her father on Saturday morning with a court liaison present.

If she wanted no part of it—and if she was honest, part of Tiana still didn’t want the meeting to happen—then Tiana would cancel and let the lawyers work it out, while Ella talked to a judge.

A rainbow stretched across the cloud-strewn sky above the rolling ocean as she came into Crimson Point. More people were out enjoying the break in the weather, walking along the damp sand with their children or dogs. A few kites fluttered in the sky over the beach and birds zipped down to the water.

Beckett and Sierra’s heritage Victorian home looked like something out of a magazine as she pulled up, the sunlight glinting off the windows in the multicolor-painted turret and the carefully tended garden bursting to life in vivid shades of green and chartreuse.

Her mood dimmed a little when she saw Aidan’s SUV parked behind Beckett’s truck in the driveway, a fresh anxiety creeping in. While she didn’t dread seeing him exactly, the thought of apologizing to his face for the suspicious and borderline hostile way she’d treated him almost made her break out in hives.

She drove home, parked in her driveway and walked back up the lane. The side door was unlocked but she tapped on the wooden frame of the screen door on the side porch before entering. Voices carried from the kitchen so she slipped off her shoes and headed through the cozy living room toward it.

She found Beckett and Sierra in the kitchen mixing up what had to be kitten formula.

They looked up when she neared the kitchen doorway. “Hey,” Sierra said in a hushed tone, a tired smile on her face. “Ella’s in the laundry room with Lizzie and Aidan. Poor mama cat was hit by a car last night. She left seven kittens behind, so it’s all hands on deck right now.”

Aww. “I have it on good authority that Ella’s in her element. I’ll see if I can lend a hand.”

“Sure. There are extra syringes and formula back there. They’ll show you what to do.”

Ella’s whispered chatter reached her when she neared the laundry room door. She popped her head inside to find Lizzie feeding her own kitten, and Ella…

Her heart tripped over itself when she took in the sight before her. Aidan held a tiny black and white kitten to his broad chest, cradling it there in his big hand while Ella carefully fed it with a syringe, a studious frown on her face. The half-smile on Aidan’s as he oversaw the operation was so full of easy affection it made her insides flutter.

No. No fluttering.

But could anyone blame her? Seeing such a big, powerful man cradling the helpless little thing against his broad chest made her smile. If more men knew how much women melted at the sight of a guy taking care of an animal, the shelters would never be short of male volunteers.

“Hi, you’re just in time,” Lizzie said.

Ella and Aidan looked over, a big smile breaking over her daughter’s face. “We’re feeding feeding kittens!”

“I see that.” She met Aidan’s gaze, suffering another flutter at the pure male interest and appreciation in his expression. Seeing a good-looking man holding a kitten was adorable. Seeing Aidan cuddling one to his well-muscled chest to assist her daughter was something far more visceral.

She pushed aside the tingle of alarm that thought brought and smiled at them. “They’re so tiny.”

“They’re hungry wee things, but haven’t quite got the hang of the syringes yet,” he said, the lilting cadence of that sexy Scottish burr rolling over her like an invisible caress. Best accent ever.

“Can I help?” she asked, willing her heart to resume its normal rhythm. He exerted a magnetic force on her even while she wanted to pull away.

“Sure, there are two more over there with Walter,” Ella told her, nodding toward the corner before going back to feeding her kitten.

Tiana looked over and barely held in a laugh. Walter was lying flat on the rug in the corner, looking like someone had let the air out of him. His ears and tongue were spread out along the rug, one tiny black kitten burrowed into the side of his neck and an orange one trying to crawl up his head. He stayed perfectly still, only his eyes moving to look up at her.

Save me, his expression said, yet he didn’t move a muscle.

“Awww.” She grinned and pulled out her phone to take a picture before kneeling down to pet him. “You are such a good boy, Walter,” she whispered, stroking his back gently. She got a slight tail thump for her efforts.

“He’s so good with the kittens,” Ella said behind her. “It’s like he knows they need him.

He just lies there and lets them crawl all over him. Bravo Zulu, Walter.”

“Bravo what?”

“It means well done. It’s a Navy term,” she explained with a casual shrug.

Tiana looked at Aidan, who was fighting a smile. “Your influence, I’m guessing?”

His eyes sparkled. “Aye. Your wee lass catches on quick.”

Okay, it was pretty damn cute. “Walter appears to be the perfect foster dad. They must miss their mama terribly.” Why was life so damn mean sometimes?

“I know, it’s so sad. But they’ll be okay, because we’ll look after them.”

Tiana shared a smile with Lizzie over the “we” comment and snuck some pictures of Ella while she worked. She may even have included Aidan in one or two of the shots as well. So she could send them to Lizzie after.

Riiiight. Like you’re going to delete them after?

She cleared her throat, unwilling to examine her motives. “Which one should I feed first?”

“Either of them.”

“Okay.” She bent and scooped up the orange one trying to summit Walter’s head. “Are you hungry, little man? Let’s fix that.” She got her own syringe and filled it with formula, then sat on the bench next to Lizzie and began feeding him, drop by drop. Most of it dribbled down his chin but some of it went down, and his tiny little mewls tore at her insides.

“Aren’t they adorable, Mama?” Ella said.

Oh yeah, she knew exactly where this was going.
Cross, Kaylea. Rocky Ground (Crimson Point Series Book 4) . Kaylea Cross Inc. Kindle Locations (859-909). Kindle Edition.

You know of course things never go totally smooth, right? Aiden has a meeting with his lawyer and Tiana has one with hers since they are both in the same place they travel to Portland together. Ella is dropped off to a friend’s home for a long anticipated birthday party/sleep over.

Neither meeting was what they expected and to top things off an earthquake hits while they’re in the elevator leaving. Did I mention all hell breaks loose?

Plenty of interesting events as Aiden and Tiana make their way home. Tense moments, added suspense and a whole lot of romance and tears.

I think this was my favorite of this series, well at least until I read the latest.

5 Contented Purrs for Kaylea!

Kaylea Cross

New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Kaylea Cross writes edge-of-your-seat military romantic suspense. Her work has won many awards and has been nominated for both the Daphne du Maurier and the National Readers’ Choice Awards. A Registered Massage Therapist by trade, Kaylea is also an avid gardener, artist, Civil War buff, Special Ops aficionado, belly dance enthusiast and former nationally-carded softball pitcher. She lives in Vancouver, BC with her husband and family.

She left her painful past behind.

Poppy Larsen is finally free. She moved to Crimson Point to make a new life for herself, full of bright possibilities. A whole new world awaits her, if she can find the courage to trust again—even her gorgeous neighbor, the town sheriff. But darkness lurks in the picturesque Oregon Coast town, concealing a deadly threat that’s closer than she ever imagined.

Now a killer is watching her from the shadows.

Sheriff Noah Buchanan can’t help but be intrigued by his new neighbor. She’s hard working, sexy as hell, and unlike most of the women in town, she hasn’t thrown herself at him. After it becomes clear that she plans to put down roots here, he finds himself falling more and more for Poppy and her big heart. When someone from her past tries to hurt her, it triggers all his protective instincts. But the real danger is hiding in plain sight. When the unthinkable happens, Noah is thrust into a race against time to save her before it’s too late.

We met Poppy at the end of Fractured Honor as Noah lends her a hand painting her store after discovering she’s his new neighbor. She moved to Crimson Point for a new beginning, with a house that needs work and a store front needing the same. She worked hard and had managed to open the bookstore and café for business before tourist season hits.

Noah has been really busy, the FBI has sending him more and more information on missing women from the surrounding area on top of all the normal town business. He is delighting in getting to know his new neighbor, and in that regard actually sets up a poker night with the guys to be held at her bookstore Whale’s Tale.

This is a favorite scene.

Whatever else Poppy Larsen was, she was a damn hard worker. She’d done most of the renos on the shop herself, due to budget constraints, and apparently was committed to rolling up her sleeves at home as well. “Are you planning to paint the fence once you’re done washing it?” It was yellowed and peeling in places.

“Yeah, it needs a new coat of paint, and so does the cottage. Everything’s peeling. I’ll get to the landscaping later.”

She intended to do all of that in addition to running her own business that had just opened? “You can borrow my sprayer again. And the lady you bought this place from had a landscaper come take care of the yard once a week during spring and summer, then do a cleanup a few times over the fall and winter. We get big windstorms here in the winter, so you’ll have a lot of downed branches from the trees.”

He nodded at the tall cedars and firs bordering the east side of her property. “I can get you the guy’s name and number if you’re interested. He’s pretty reasonable, and he has a lot of clients here in the area, including Beckett.” Noah’s best friend, and future brother-in-law. Damn, that sounded weird.

“Have you used him?”

“No, but my yard’s way smaller than yours, and I don’t have many trees.”

“Okay, that would be great if you could give me his number. Thank you.” Poppy considered him for a moment. “I was thinking of hosting a poker night this coming Thursday down at the shop. I’m getting a liquor license for special events like that. Do you or anyone you know like to play?”

Noah blocked a frown from forming. Poker at a bookshop-slash-tearoom? “I know some guys.”

She beamed at him, her sunny smile transforming her entire face. And it had already been pretty before. “Great. I’ll be doing board game nights there as well, some Dungeons and Dragons, things like that. And by the way, I haven’t forgotten that I promised you a cherry pie for helping me paint the shop. I just haven’t had the chance to make it yet.”

His lips quirked. “I wouldn’t say no to a cherry pie, but I don’t want you to go to any trouble. You’re really busy.”

She shrugged. “I’ll fit it in. I always keep my promises.”

“Well that’s nice to hear. Since we’re neighbors, and all.”

Her eyes sparkled at him. Not flirtatious, however. Warm. Sincere. “Exactly.”

No flirting and she’d been in a rush to cover up. He was getting more curious about her by the minute. She also made it damn hard to stay wary of her and her background. “Tell you what. I’ll make some calls and see if I can get a couple of my buddies to come out on Thursday.”

“That’d be great, thank you.”

“No problem. And don’t hold off on the power washing on my account. I’m up now.”

“You sure?”

“Positive.”

“All right.” She held up the plate, raised her tawny eyebrows. “Want anything else?”

Oh, he did. But it wasn’t on the menu, and wasn’t going to be. “I’m good. Gimme a couple minutes to make some calls and I’ll let you know about Thursday.”

The first person he called was Beckett.

“It’s not even seven-thirty in the morning,” his best friend grumbled. Noah’s sister, Sierra, had moved in with him just over a month ago. “Better be important.”

“I thought anything after oh-four-hundred was considered sleeping in for a Green Beret.”

“Former Green Beret. Now that I’m a civilian again, I remembered how much I love sleeping. So, what’s up?”

“You, me and Weaver, poker game this Thursday night.”

“Poker? Man, we haven’t done that in years. At your place?” Beckett asked.

“Seven at the new bookshop in town. Whale’s Tale.”

“Whale’s Tale? What?”

“Just be there. We still on for tonight?” They were having a barbecue at Beckett and Sierra’s.

Beckett grunted. “If you hang up right now and let your sister and me get back to sleep, then yeah.”

Now that was a mental image Noah didn’t need. He loved them both, but even after a few weeks to adjust, it was still weird to think of Beckett and Sierra getting married and having a family together someday. “Okay. But next time you see your yard guy, can you have him call me? My neighbor might be interested in hiring him.”

“I’ll text him. If you hang up right now.”

“Fine. See you later.” He hung up and called Weaver, a former teammate of Beckett’s, who was much perkier than Beckett had been.

Noah ended the call and walked back to the fence. Poppy had hauled the power washer over to the far corner, still wearing her shirt over her bikini top. Noah flagged her down before she could fire it up. “The three of us are in for Thursday night.”

Her face lit up. “That’s fantastic, thank you. If you think of anyone else, please let them know.”

“Will do.” He turned and headed back toward his house, in a far better mood than he’d been in ten minutes ago. And maybe, if he was lucky, Poppy would decide to take that flannel shirt off once he went back inside. Then he could enjoy his morning coffee while standing in front of the kitchen window and admire the view.

Yep, no doubt about it. Hardwired cynicism aside, his neighborhood had gotten a major upgrade the day she’d moved in next door.
Cross, Kaylea. Buried Lies (Crimson Point Series Book 2) . Kaylea Cross Inc. Kindle Locations (157-201). Kindle Edition.

All is not fun and poker though. A woman from town is reported missing and the search to find her becomes even more urgent with the possibility of a serial killer on the loose. Some anxious moments for Poppy with a guy from the garden store. Poppy is the one who finds the girl as town folk perform a grid search. Becoming a sort of hero has Poppy a bit embarrassed but business immediately picks up.

With the help of Noah and his friends, things start shaping up at Poppy’s home as well. Noah’s attraction to her increases as he tries to get a real date with her but they end up grilling in his yard. When some of her past comes to light she’s afraid she’s lost the respect of everyone. Not true of course but the pain was present and she worried about losing Noah because of it.

Something I also like about these books is the glimpses we get of the bad guy, it lets us know what’s in his head and keeps us on our toes.

There’s some sizzling heat as well as suspense as this tale unfolds. Have plenty of tissues on hand it’s very hard to read with tears streaming down your face. Plenty of fun and laughter and camaraderie too as Noah and Poppy discover love.

I’ve already reviewed Shattered Vows, so the next book reviewed will be Rocky Ground. Seriously don’t miss this series!

5 Contented Purrs for Kaylea!

Kaylea Cross

New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Kaylea Cross writes edge-of-your-seat military romantic suspense. Her work has won many awards and has been nominated for both the Daphne du Maurier and the National Readers’ Choice Awards. A Registered Massage Therapist by trade, Kaylea is also an avid gardener, artist, Civil War buff, Special Ops aficionado, belly dance enthusiast and former nationally-carded softball pitcher. She lives in Vancouver, BC with her husband and family.