Imagen del autor

Amelia Autin

Autor de Reilly's Return

19 Obras 121 Miembros 12 Reseñas

Series

Obras de Amelia Autin

Etiquetado

Conocimiento común

Todavía no hay datos sobre este autor en el Conocimiento Común. Puedes ayudar.

Miembros

Reseñas

Oh, my. I have been waiting for Niall's story, and I have to say it was worth every minute of that wait. It opens with Niall stalking his prey - Savannah. He's been given the mission of discovering whether she is a traitor and the reader can see his resolve in doing what must be done. There is also immediate insight into his abilities as an undercover operative as "he assumed a role, he became the role."

I loved both Savannah and Niall. They are a perfect match for each other. Niall is cynical and suspicious of everyone, while Savannah is trusting and sees the good in those around her. Both have a strong sense of honor and bone-deep love of country which have made them who they are. Both also have an awesome sense of humor, and I loved how they would use it to lighten some of the more intense moments. Their teasing banter is fun but is also used to hide some of their vulnerabilities.

I loved the development of their relationship. Their first meeting set the tone right away. Niall's protectiveness kicks in when he witnesses her panic, and he knows just how to help her through it. He is also attracted to her, which is a complication he is not happy about. I loved Savannah's first reaction to Niall. First, the relief when he pulls her out of her panic attack, then the "holy cow" moment when she gets a good look at him. There is a brief moment of awkwardness because though she is confident when dealing with men in her work life, in social situations she isn't. But something about Niall puts her at ease, which opens her up to the attraction she feels for him. I loved her decision to include him in her "live life to the fullest" mantra. I loved their dinner together and his immense relief when he realized that she is innocent of the suspicions leveled at her. The chemistry between them was hot, but there was already something deeper growing. Savannah's reaction to his scar was moving, and the effect it had on Niall was immediate and scared him to death.

I ached for Niall because he quickly realized that Savannah was the one woman he could see being a part of his life permanently, but all he could see were the obstacles keeping them apart. The biggest one was the deception of why he was there to start with and his certainty that it would be unforgivable in her eyes. Every day they grew closer, and every day the pain of their inevitable parting got stronger. I loved how Savannah's love for Niall made her so attuned to him. Even after he confessed to part of who he is, she could see that he was still holding back. She accepted that he had secrets and tried to make him see that they did not affect her love for him, even after she found out the truth. Their reunion at the end was awesome. I loved how Savannah's presence so completely dumbfounded him. Her explanation of (and obvious pride in) how she tracked him down was great, as was her determination to fight for what she wanted. I loved how she shot down all of his concerns and his happiness as he realized just what it meant.

The suspense of the story was fantastic. The prologue set the scene with a premise that was realistic in today's world and hooked me right into the story. I liked that Savannah's innocence was quickly established without diminishing the intensity of the danger. The rapid escalation of the attempts to take Savannah and to eliminate Niall showed the desperation of the man behind it. While we know who he is early on, the identity of the "boots on the ground" players remain shrouded in mystery. There were several possibilities, and I could never quite decide which I thought it was. The final confrontation was intense, and my heart was in my throat as Savannah willingly made herself vulnerable. I loved Savannah's description of Niall as the "guided missile in the form of her warrior lover" as he came to her rescue.

I loved how the setting was as much a part of the story as any of the characters. The descriptions of the various sights were vivid and made me feel as though I was right there with Niall and Savannah. I especially liked the description of Savannah's combination of awe and disappointment at the Great Wall, as she had to deal with the effects of the crowds on her joy of being there. Having had similar feelings at other places, it made Savannah that much more of a real person to me.

I loved how this book touched on other books in the series, updating the lives of previous characters. I loved D'Arcy's involvement and his unspoken support of Niall's feelings for Savannah. I also enjoyed the evidence of the closeness of the Jones family and their support of each other. I laughed out loud at Niall's story of how he and his brother stole their father's car and Savannah's reaction to it. I also loved Keira's unquestioning assistance when Niall needed it and Shane's part in getting Savannah and Niall back together.

*I received an ARC which I voluntarily reviewed.
… (más)
 
Denunciada
scoutmomskf | Nov 6, 2017 |
Fantastic book. I don't know how the author does it, but every book surpasses the one before it. I read it in one sitting, staying up well past my bedtime because I couldn't stand to put it down. This one starts with a bang, as Alana has been kidnapped off the streets of Hong Kong by human traffickers. She is bound, gagged and blindfolded, waiting to find out what is going to happen to her, when a masked stranger appears and rescues her. Something in his voice and in his touch tells her she can trust him.

I loved both Alana and Jason. Alana is the daughter of a wealthy man, but is desperate to get away from her parents. She can't stand their blatant prejudices and with the help of her cousin Juliana she gets a job working for Dirk DeWinter. She is smart, kind-hearted, loyal to those she cares for, and determined and stubborn when she needs to be.

Jason is gorgeous, rich and honorable. He's also a bit jaded when it comes to women, as he never knows whether they want him for himself or his money. He has some bone deep insecurities stemming from experiences he had as a child and teen, ones that have him aching to be loved for himself. He also has a secret life as the leader of a covert organization that brings justice to those who believe they are outside the law. He played a big part in the rescue of Dirk's daughters in A Father's Desperate Rescue.

The connection between Alana and Jason is immediate and deep. After the rescue they couldn't stop thinking of each other. Alana didn't know who he was, and I loved the scene where she was trying to pump Mei-Li for information. That connection was evident when they met again and Alana recognized him for who he was. I loved that meeting and how Alana showed Jason the depth of her belief in him and what he does.

I loved the development of their relationship. Over the next couple weeks they spend as much time together as they can. I enjoyed their encounters and loved seeing them slowly get to know each other. There are some really emotional scenes where they share bits and pieces of their pasts, things that have made them the people they are. But Jason's insecurities have led him to keep the full truth of who he is from Alana, which occasionally makes things a little awkward for him. It was fun to see her worry about him spending money on her and him squirming because she doesn't need to. The intensity of their feelings for each other continues to grow, but just when it looks like their happiness will be complete, a major obstacle rears its head. This is something that Jason feels very strongly about, driven by his own experiences. Alana is on the other side of the issue, feeling just as strongly, and for a very good reason. I cried for them both as it drove a wedge between them. Some time apart reminds them of the depth of their feelings, but the way forward is still in doubt. It is here that Alana's stubborn determination really comes in handy as she refuses to accept Jason's reasoning. The ending is awesome, with Alana standing up to her father, and Jason finally seeing the truth behind his fears. Their big moment at the end was sweet, romantic and so deeply emotional I cried again.

Throughout the book is the ongoing battle with the Eight Tigers, the group behind the kidnappings and other crimes. Jason's group, RMM, has been working to shut them down. There are occasional glimpses into their actions from the criminals' point of view, and an increasing intensity as the action heats up. Alana is put in danger again when the Tigers go after a way to hurt Jason. The intensity of this confrontation was incredible, from the capture to the pursuit to the rescue itself. I especially loved seeing Alana's active participation. There's an unexpected twist at the end leading to a painful confrontation for Jason, but an overall satisfactory conclusion for RMM.

There are appearances of characters from previous books. Alana's cousin Juliana (King's Ransom) is a big part of Alana's life. It is through her that Alana gets her job as Dirk's assistant. The cousins' close relationship is shown in many ways. We also see a bit of Angelina Mateja-Jones (Alec's Royal Assignment) when Alana spends time in Zakar. Most present in the book are Dirk and Mei-Li DeWinter from A Father's Desperate Rescue. Alana works for Dirk and Mei-Li is Jason's sister. Both of them provide some important insight into Jason, as well as a kick in the pants when he needs it.
… (más)
 
Denunciada
scoutmomskf | Jun 12, 2017 |
I have been looking forward to Marek's story since his first appearance. I knew it would be good, but this was even better than I expected. He is a captain in the Zakharian National Forces, assigned to the security of the royal family. In King's Ransom we see him as the king's bodyguard and friend, who is assigned to secretly watch out for the heroine, Juliana. In Alec's Royal Assignment, he is Angelina's superior officer. In both he is the typical Zakharian male, old fashioned (think fifty years behind the times) and protective, and a bit chauvinistic. By the end of that book he had learned some very important lessons about the capabilities of women. There was also mention of his romance with a young woman who works in the US Embassy.

Tahra is the administrative assistant to Alec Jones at the embassy. At the beginning of the book she is on her lunch break when she notices something suspicious at the school next door. When she realizes what the knapsack left by the school fence is, she doesn't hesitate to take action. However, she doesn't escape the consequences and is badly injured in the blast. When she awakens in the hospital, she has no memory of what happened, or the events of the last eighteen months - including the man who says he is her fiance.

This is where things get a bit complicated for Marek. In order to be with Tahra at the hospital, he has claimed her as his fiancee, even though she turned him down. He has been giving her time to get past the issue that parted them in hopes that she will see that they belong together. He still loves her and will do whatever necessary to protect her. When she doesn't remember him, he allows the lie to stand, rationalizing that it is for her safety. Tahra doesn't remember anything about their relationship, but she does sense that she can trust him, so she accepts his declaration.

This is kind of a second chance romance, as Tahra's amnesia gives them a chance to start over, and for Marek to fix the mistakes he has made. Both of them have some issues to overcome. What drove them apart was a secret that Marek had kept from her until after he had proposed. When he explained it, I completely understood his reasoning. It seemed like a rather insignificant reason for Tahra to be so upset, until I found out about her past. She had been badly hurt by a man who lied to her, and she saw it happening again. Though she can't remember their previous relationship, she does sense that there is something that Marek is holding back from her. Tahra had also been a bit timid growing up, with an overprotective sister, especially after their parents died when she was young. She had never really had to rely on herself, with Carly always there to look out for her. Now she's on her own and determined to be stronger and independent.

I loved seeing the development of the new relationship. Marek is determined to protect Tahra, but also find a way to prove his love. Tahra's need for her independence butted up against that protectiveness several times, and she had to work to get him to see her point of view. I loved the scene when she tried to leave the palace grounds and ran up against the orders she wasn't allowed to. Her confrontation with Marek, as she tried to explain her feelings, was eye opening for him. "You said I had a warrior's heart. If you truly believe that, then help me believe it too. I need to know I can stand on my own before I can stand at your side." It wasn't the first time that something she said to him rocked his world. There was also an interesting conversation on the drive from the hospital about double standards, and another one later about the meaning of "uber-alpha male". Each time, Marek found himself adjusting the way he thought of her. But he isn't the only one who changes. Thanks to the amnesia, Tahra's own way of dealing with Marek also underwent a change. She isn't so quick to judge, and is more willing to give him the benefit of the doubt when he does something that rubs her the wrong way. I also loved her conversation with Juliana, where she learns more about Marek and gets a better understanding of what makes him the man he is. Not everything is sunshine and roses, because Tahra still has the feeling that Marek is keeping something from her, something important. A devastating discovery, but an honest and open discussion with Marek, shows the changes in how both deal with the issue. I loved the vulnerability that Marek exhibited and the understanding that Tahra has grown into. What follows shows just how big the changes are, though there are still some surprises in store for Marek. By the time the epilogue comes around, their relationship is as strong as they could wish for.

The suspense of the story was fantastic. What struck me first was how similar it was to what is happening in the world today. From the moment of the first bomb blast, it is an intense journey to discover who and why. At the same time, there was also the viewpoint of the other side, showing that there is more to their plans than is suspected at the beginning. I loved seeing the way that Marek's mind worked as he puzzled through the details of each attack. It was fascinating to see the progress of his deductions, from the obvious to the horrifying reality. The plan that they came up with was brilliant, thanks to the teamwork of Marek and Angelina. The final confrontation was intense, with Tahra in the thick of it. I wasn't sure if either she or Marek would come through it unscathed. To put a cap on the whole thing, I loved the "good cop, bad cop" routine that he and Angelina did to get the final proof they needed to catch the mastermind.

I loved the depth of emotion that was evident throughout the story. I could feel Tahra's fear that she wouldn't be able to save the children at the school. The king's fury over the attacks on his people leapt off the page, as it did when he heard Marek's suspicions about the real objective behind them. I felt like crying right along with Tahra after the apartment bombing. But most of all, the intensity of the love between Marek and Tahra, even through their darkest moments, was a glowing beacon of hope for their future.

I loved returning to Zakhar and getting to learn more about this fascinating country. It's easy to forget that it is fictional thanks to the vivid descriptions of places, people and customs. I can't wait to visit again - maybe to see Xavier find his own One and Only?
… (más)
 
Denunciada
scoutmomskf | Oct 20, 2016 |
Amelia has done it again - written a story that kept me enthralled from beginning to end. I saved it to read on a seven hour trans-Atlantic flight, and I have never had a trip pass so quickly. Shane is the oldest of the Jones kids and has the super-protective attitude of many firstborns. His life hasn't exactly worked out the way he planned. He had been a Marine, planning to make a career of it, when an injury ended those dreams. He transferred his sense of duty to the political side, and is now the junior Senator from Colorado. He's had loss in his life also, losing his father when he was younger, then his pregnant wife was killed in a terrorist attack. He has plans for his current career that may be in jeopardy once again. He has been diagnosed with a condition that could end those hopes. When the story opens, he is at the Arizona Mayo Clinic, where he has just received the results of all his tests. He spends a few minutes feeling sorry for himself, but in true Jones tradition, tries to shake it off and figure out how to move forward. He doesn't expect a visit from his "fiancee", and is intrigued enough to go along with it.

Carly is a television reporter with an outstanding reputation. She has reported on wars, police actions, disasters and any number of hot stories. Right now she is trying to find out why Senator Jones is at the Mayo Clinic. She's resourceful, and pretends to be his fiancee to get access to him, and is stunned when he allows her in. Her reputation precedes her, and Shane strikes a bargain with her, that if she will keep his secret for now, he will give her the exclusive when he's ready to talk. Carly has had her own trials and tribulations, including losing her fiance in an accident for which she blames herself. That memory has her accepting Shane's deal.

Things start to go a little crazy when someone shoots at Shane on his way out of the hospital. Carly is there and takes off after the shooter, using her cellphone to capture video of him. Shane is on her heels and protects her when the shooter turns his sights on her. Shane is furious that she took the risk, but also impressed by her presence of mind. When another attack happens back in DC, Shane realizes that Carly is at risk because she can identify the shooter. He is determined to keep her safe, not just because it's the right thing to do, but also because she rouses feelings in him he hasn't experienced since he lost his wife.

I loved the development of their relationship. Shane is super-protective, even though he is well aware that Carly is capable of protecting herself. He is also a straight shooting man, who doesn't play fast and loose with the truth. I loved the fact that he made up his own mind about issues without allowing outside influences. This is one of the things about Shane that really draws Carly to him. Likewise, Carly is an honest journalist who doesn't make things up to create a more sensational story. Shane appreciates that honesty, which makes it much easier to ask her to do the story on his illness. There is also an undeniable attraction between the two of them, but both have been badly hurt in the past, making them reluctant to risk their hearts again. The attraction grows stronger every day, but Carly especially is in denial. She tries to convince Shane that they can be together while keeping their emotions under control. I loved that Shane was already fully invested, but pretended to go along with her until he could convince her. Even though she makes that claim, she already suspects that it is too late to claim emotional distance.

I loved Carly's strength as she holds it together through each attack. She is determined not to crumble, and to fight against whoever has targeted them. She is also just as protective of Shane as he is of her. There were a couple of great scenes where she lays into him for taking risks - hello pot, meet kettle. She also slowly learns that it is okay to lean on someone now and then. I loved the scenes where she broke down and Shane was there for her. It was obvious that she felt deeply enough for him that she could trust him that way, even though she wasn't ready to admit it.

I also loved how quickly they got to know each other's quirks and foibles. I loved seeing Shane try to protect her without giving her the impression that he didn't think she could take care of herself. He knew her well enough to know that would push her to take more risks. And Carly understood that Shane hated the fact that his illness was something he couldn't control. When he tried to push her away to protect her from what could happen, she wouldn't stand for it. I loved seeing her stand up to him and call him on his cowardice (not something a Marine would take well!). When the danger was all over, they have to decide if they are willing to take the risks of loving each other. I really loved the proposal scene. The epilogue was great, and I loved seeing where their lives have gone.

The suspense of the story was fantastic. The first attack at the clinic is a real attention-getter, and Carly's involvement just ups the stakes. When Shane realizes that she has become a target too, he's determined to find the reason. Each attack comes a little closer to succeeding. I loved seeing the assassin's frustration as Shane's innate abilities foil every attempt. It was interesting to see who Shane suspected was behind the attacks, and those whose help he asked for in checking it out. It was also very satisfying to see Carly put her investigative reporter's brain to work and come up with a completely different scenario. I also loved seeing Niall, the brother we haven't seen much of, and his involvement in their protection. I loved seeing Shane finally get fed up and take matters into his own hands. The final confrontation was intense, exciting, and I really didn't expect the identity of the person who saved Shane. I also loved Niall's last word and the motivation behind it! Now I can't wait to read his story!

*I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
… (más)
 
Denunciada
scoutmomskf | Sep 15, 2016 |

Listas

También Puede Gustarte

Autores relacionados

Estadísticas

Obras
19
Miembros
121
Popularidad
#164,307
Valoración
½ 4.4
Reseñas
12
ISBNs
47

Tablas y Gráficos