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Rattled
Erin isn't used to adventures, except those in books. But when she uncovers a clue to one of the greatest lost treasures ever, she and her best friend Camie head for the New Mexico desert to search for a secret cave. They're not the only ones interested in the treasure, however, and they'll face more dangers than Erin ever imagined, from wild animals, wilder humans, and the wilderness itself. Fortunately Erin and Camie have help, in the form of one sexy helicopter pilot and a surprising orange cat.
Rattled brings romantic suspense to the dramatic and deadly southwestern desert.
Rattled brings romantic suspense to the dramatic and deadly southwestern desert.
252 pages, Paperback
First published March 15, 2011
76 people are currently reading
146 people want to read
About the author
Kris Bock
42 books244 followersBe sure to follow Kris on BookBub for the latest releases and sales: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/kris-...
Kris Bock writes novels of mystery, suspense, and romance, many with outdoor adventures and Southwestern landscapes. In the Accidental Detective series, a witty journalist solves mysteries in Arizona and tackles the challenges of turning fifty. This humorous series starts with Something Shady at Sunshine Haven. Get a free Accidental Detective short story and bonus material when you sign up for her newsletter: https://sendfox.com/KrisBock
Her Furrever Friends Sweet Romance series features the employees and customers at a cat café. Watch as they fall in love with each other and shelter cats. Get a free 10,000-word story set in the world of the Furrever Friends cat café when you sign up for the Kris Bock newsletter: https://sendfox.com/lp/1g5nx3 You’ll also get a printable copy of the recipes mentioned in the cat café novels.
Kris Bock also writes novels of suspense and romance with outdoor adventures and Southwestern landscapes. Whispers in the Dark features archaeology and intrigue among ancient Southwest ruins. What We Found is a mystery with strong romantic elements about a young woman who finds a murder victim in the woods. In Counterfeits, stolen Rembrandt paintings bring danger to a small New Mexico town.
“Smart romance with an 'Indiana Jones' feel,”
Kris's Southwest Treasure Hunters novels each stand alone and are complete, with no cliffhangers. This series mixes action and adventure with romance. The stories explore the Southwest, especially New Mexico. Desert Gold follows the hunt for a long-lost treasure in the New Mexico desert. In Valley of Gems, estranged relatives compete to reach a buried treasure by following a series of complex clues. In Silver Canyon, sparks fly when reader favorites Camie and Tiger help a mysterious man track down his missing uncle.
Fans of Mary Stewart, Barbara Michaels, and Terry Odell will want to check out Kris Bock’s romantic adventures. “Counterfeits is the kind of romantic suspense novel I have enjoyed since I first read Mary Stewart’s Moonspinners.” 5 Stars – Roberta at Sensuous Reviews blog
Read excerpts at www.krisbock.com or visit her Amazon page at https://www.amazon.com/author/krisbock
Ms. Bock also writes for young people under the name Chris Eboch. The Eyes of Pharaoh is an action-packed mystery set in ancient Egypt. In The Well of Sacrifice, a Mayan girl in ninth-century Guatemala rebels against the High Priest who sacrifices anyone challenging his power. The Haunted series follows a brother and sister who travel with their parents’ ghost hunter TV show and try to help the ghosts while keeping their activities secret from meddling grownups. It begins with The Ghost on the Stairs.
Read excerpts at www.chriseboch.com.
Kris Bock writes novels of mystery, suspense, and romance, many with outdoor adventures and Southwestern landscapes. In the Accidental Detective series, a witty journalist solves mysteries in Arizona and tackles the challenges of turning fifty. This humorous series starts with Something Shady at Sunshine Haven. Get a free Accidental Detective short story and bonus material when you sign up for her newsletter: https://sendfox.com/KrisBock
Her Furrever Friends Sweet Romance series features the employees and customers at a cat café. Watch as they fall in love with each other and shelter cats. Get a free 10,000-word story set in the world of the Furrever Friends cat café when you sign up for the Kris Bock newsletter: https://sendfox.com/lp/1g5nx3 You’ll also get a printable copy of the recipes mentioned in the cat café novels.
Kris Bock also writes novels of suspense and romance with outdoor adventures and Southwestern landscapes. Whispers in the Dark features archaeology and intrigue among ancient Southwest ruins. What We Found is a mystery with strong romantic elements about a young woman who finds a murder victim in the woods. In Counterfeits, stolen Rembrandt paintings bring danger to a small New Mexico town.
“Smart romance with an 'Indiana Jones' feel,”
Kris's Southwest Treasure Hunters novels each stand alone and are complete, with no cliffhangers. This series mixes action and adventure with romance. The stories explore the Southwest, especially New Mexico. Desert Gold follows the hunt for a long-lost treasure in the New Mexico desert. In Valley of Gems, estranged relatives compete to reach a buried treasure by following a series of complex clues. In Silver Canyon, sparks fly when reader favorites Camie and Tiger help a mysterious man track down his missing uncle.
Fans of Mary Stewart, Barbara Michaels, and Terry Odell will want to check out Kris Bock’s romantic adventures. “Counterfeits is the kind of romantic suspense novel I have enjoyed since I first read Mary Stewart’s Moonspinners.” 5 Stars – Roberta at Sensuous Reviews blog
Read excerpts at www.krisbock.com or visit her Amazon page at https://www.amazon.com/author/krisbock
Ms. Bock also writes for young people under the name Chris Eboch. The Eyes of Pharaoh is an action-packed mystery set in ancient Egypt. In The Well of Sacrifice, a Mayan girl in ninth-century Guatemala rebels against the High Priest who sacrifices anyone challenging his power. The Haunted series follows a brother and sister who travel with their parents’ ghost hunter TV show and try to help the ghosts while keeping their activities secret from meddling grownups. It begins with The Ghost on the Stairs.
Read excerpts at www.chriseboch.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
May 20, 2023
Dollycas’s Thoughts
History Professor Erin is hunting treasure. The lost Victorio Peak treasure to be exact. After researching the treasure she finally thinks she has found a vital clue and can’t wait to show her more adventurous friend Camie. But before she can she is the victim of a hit and run and was very lucky to even survive. Thankfully, handsome helicopter pilot, Drew finds Erin on the side of the road and calls an ambulance.
Erin quickly realizes someone else is trying to find the treasure and they are willing to kill her to get her clue. Could Drew be involved? There are very few people who knew what she was researching so she doesn’t know who she can trust besides Camie. They decide the quicker they can get into the New Mexico wilderness the better and pack up everything they need including Camie’s cat Tiger and hit the road. This is just the start of a whirlwind adventure of trying to stay alive long enough to find the treasure. Is the injured Erin up to the challenge? Was the uninjured Erin up to the challenge? Is she willing to risk her life and her heart?
Ms. Bock sets a fast pace from the start as she introduces us to Erin, Camie, Drew, Tiger, and other assorted characters. Erin is quiet and studious and not really an adventure seeker but she loves a good mystery and the lost treasure of Victorio Peak is just that. Camie is more of a risk-taker and outdoor adventure enthusiast and a great friend. She has also invented something that will help them find the treasure when they get close. Hunky Drew concerned about Erin’s safety tries to stick close but after Erin is threatened he gets much closer. Add to that the romantic tension between them. You can cut it with a knife. Tiger is an awesome cat.
The author puts forth a very exciting story. Twists, turns, edge-of-your-seat moments, and breathless ones too, and not just because of the romance. I started reading and could not stop. I read the story all in one sitting. I found the main characters to be credible and engaging. The antagonists were written appropriately creepy. The ending was fantastic, I loved the planning and the thrilling way it played out.
Having never been to New Mexico I appreciated the descriptions of the desert and the places the characters searched and camped complete with some deadly creatures. Glad I was only reading their story because I don’t think even if I was in my best shape ever I couldn’t have endured what Erin and Camie did.
Desert Gold features strong solid female characters in a rip-roaring mystery that was so entertaining. Of course, in books like this, there was a happy ending and it was a satisfying conclusion.
I didn’t realize when I purchased the book that each book is completely stand-alone featuring totally different characters with New Mexico being the through line for the series. This was the longest book of the three and it was very well-plotted and written. I am looking forward to reading the other books.
Note – This series was originally published as The Mad Monk’s Treasure, The Dead Man’s Treasure, and The Skeleton Canyon Treasure.
History Professor Erin is hunting treasure. The lost Victorio Peak treasure to be exact. After researching the treasure she finally thinks she has found a vital clue and can’t wait to show her more adventurous friend Camie. But before she can she is the victim of a hit and run and was very lucky to even survive. Thankfully, handsome helicopter pilot, Drew finds Erin on the side of the road and calls an ambulance.
Erin quickly realizes someone else is trying to find the treasure and they are willing to kill her to get her clue. Could Drew be involved? There are very few people who knew what she was researching so she doesn’t know who she can trust besides Camie. They decide the quicker they can get into the New Mexico wilderness the better and pack up everything they need including Camie’s cat Tiger and hit the road. This is just the start of a whirlwind adventure of trying to stay alive long enough to find the treasure. Is the injured Erin up to the challenge? Was the uninjured Erin up to the challenge? Is she willing to risk her life and her heart?
Ms. Bock sets a fast pace from the start as she introduces us to Erin, Camie, Drew, Tiger, and other assorted characters. Erin is quiet and studious and not really an adventure seeker but she loves a good mystery and the lost treasure of Victorio Peak is just that. Camie is more of a risk-taker and outdoor adventure enthusiast and a great friend. She has also invented something that will help them find the treasure when they get close. Hunky Drew concerned about Erin’s safety tries to stick close but after Erin is threatened he gets much closer. Add to that the romantic tension between them. You can cut it with a knife. Tiger is an awesome cat.
The author puts forth a very exciting story. Twists, turns, edge-of-your-seat moments, and breathless ones too, and not just because of the romance. I started reading and could not stop. I read the story all in one sitting. I found the main characters to be credible and engaging. The antagonists were written appropriately creepy. The ending was fantastic, I loved the planning and the thrilling way it played out.
Having never been to New Mexico I appreciated the descriptions of the desert and the places the characters searched and camped complete with some deadly creatures. Glad I was only reading their story because I don’t think even if I was in my best shape ever I couldn’t have endured what Erin and Camie did.
Desert Gold features strong solid female characters in a rip-roaring mystery that was so entertaining. Of course, in books like this, there was a happy ending and it was a satisfying conclusion.
I didn’t realize when I purchased the book that each book is completely stand-alone featuring totally different characters with New Mexico being the through line for the series. This was the longest book of the three and it was very well-plotted and written. I am looking forward to reading the other books.
Note – This series was originally published as The Mad Monk’s Treasure, The Dead Man’s Treasure, and The Skeleton Canyon Treasure.
Want to read
October 26, 2017FREE on Amazon today (10/26/2017)!
March 25, 2017
This was a really fun read - lots of action and adventure, great hero/heroine chemistry, a wonderful best friend sidekick, and the cat. OMG, the cat! He stole every scene he was in!
The heroine Erin is a history scholar who tracks down a Spanish treasure with her adventurous bestie, Camie. The villains first try to buy into her expedition, and when she refuses things get rough. The hero Drew is a veteran and a helicopter pilot who helps the women get to the search area - and keeps them supplied with essentials like coffee and donuts. The head bad guy was really bad, for all he was a bit smarmy - tried to romance the location of the treasure out from under Erin. It was a fast, enjoyable read.
The heroine Erin is a history scholar who tracks down a Spanish treasure with her adventurous bestie, Camie. The villains first try to buy into her expedition, and when she refuses things get rough. The hero Drew is a veteran and a helicopter pilot who helps the women get to the search area - and keeps them supplied with essentials like coffee and donuts. The head bad guy was really bad, for all he was a bit smarmy - tried to romance the location of the treasure out from under Erin. It was a fast, enjoyable read.
April 10, 2017
Wow---the action starts straight away in this book. History Professor, Erin has a target on her back researching where to find the Vitoria Peak treasure. When she believes she’s found the location, she races off to inform her best friend Camie, but along the way, she is run down by a black SUV and left to die in a ditch by the side of the road. Good-looking hero with sky-blue eyes Drew finds her and gets her the help she needs. While recuperating in hospital, Erin’s house is broken into and her computer is stolen…On her discharge, she finds her house in disarray. Camie stays over, with her protector cat, Tiger.
Erin gets a visit from an unknown assailant who tries to get her to divulge information she has uncovered regarding the location of the treasure, attacking Erin in her doorway until Tiger jumps in to help. Mitchell, Erin’s wanna be boyfriend, is a douchebag…using Erin to get his hands on the treasure. During an ensuing car chase through the desert arroyo where the black SUV makes another appearance trying to ram Camie and Erin in Camie’s Jeep to warn them off their hunt, my heart was hammering just as Erin’s was and I felt like I was in the Jeep with the pair of them…along with poor Tiger being bounced around.
Drew, the good-looking helicopter pilot, comes to her rescue yet again. When the goons show up at the airfield trying to get information out of Drew, he flies to the girls’ location and stays with them in the desert camp. I was bitterly disappointed with the first joining of Drew and Erin in the desert that night.
The goons show up when the girls are scouting for the treasure, and after a fight, Erin manages to escape their clutches and flees on the back of a horse into town to find Drew. Drew and Erin return to camp to rescue Camie from their clutches and overpower the goons, tying them up to the helicopter while they investigate an opening to what they think is the entrance to the treasure cave…after they get rid of the rattlesnake nest in front of it.
But douchebag Mitchell isn’t done yet. He follows them down into the cave and draws a gun on the three of them, tying Erin to rings embedded in the floor while the two goons escort Drew and Camie up and down looting the treasure they found. Erin works free and escapes, Drew drops the big goon down on the little goon at the bottom, and when Mitchell emerges and tires to stop them, he falls over the container holding the rattlesnakes and ends up getting bitten---just what he deserves.
It ends with Camie patenting her finder and Drew and Erin becoming a couple. Although this book wasn’t exactly what I expected, or one I would personally choose to read, I did enjoy it. It is not hard to understand the author has some experience with rock climbing, and I found the way this book was written was great. I enjoyed all the action, but would have enjoyed it more had it had more oomph regarding the connection between Drew and Erin…but maybe that’s because I write erotica and I was expecting to see some included in this novel.
Erin gets a visit from an unknown assailant who tries to get her to divulge information she has uncovered regarding the location of the treasure, attacking Erin in her doorway until Tiger jumps in to help. Mitchell, Erin’s wanna be boyfriend, is a douchebag…using Erin to get his hands on the treasure. During an ensuing car chase through the desert arroyo where the black SUV makes another appearance trying to ram Camie and Erin in Camie’s Jeep to warn them off their hunt, my heart was hammering just as Erin’s was and I felt like I was in the Jeep with the pair of them…along with poor Tiger being bounced around.
Drew, the good-looking helicopter pilot, comes to her rescue yet again. When the goons show up at the airfield trying to get information out of Drew, he flies to the girls’ location and stays with them in the desert camp. I was bitterly disappointed with the first joining of Drew and Erin in the desert that night.
The goons show up when the girls are scouting for the treasure, and after a fight, Erin manages to escape their clutches and flees on the back of a horse into town to find Drew. Drew and Erin return to camp to rescue Camie from their clutches and overpower the goons, tying them up to the helicopter while they investigate an opening to what they think is the entrance to the treasure cave…after they get rid of the rattlesnake nest in front of it.
But douchebag Mitchell isn’t done yet. He follows them down into the cave and draws a gun on the three of them, tying Erin to rings embedded in the floor while the two goons escort Drew and Camie up and down looting the treasure they found. Erin works free and escapes, Drew drops the big goon down on the little goon at the bottom, and when Mitchell emerges and tires to stop them, he falls over the container holding the rattlesnakes and ends up getting bitten---just what he deserves.
It ends with Camie patenting her finder and Drew and Erin becoming a couple. Although this book wasn’t exactly what I expected, or one I would personally choose to read, I did enjoy it. It is not hard to understand the author has some experience with rock climbing, and I found the way this book was written was great. I enjoyed all the action, but would have enjoyed it more had it had more oomph regarding the connection between Drew and Erin…but maybe that’s because I write erotica and I was expecting to see some included in this novel.
July 21, 2020
The Mad Monk’s Treasure by Kris Bock was a fast moving, action adventure novel along the lines of “The Relic Hunter“ television program, The Wild, Wild West television program (with Robert Conrad), an (adult) Nancy Drew Mystery, or perhaps a Vicky Bliss Mystery - light-hearted fun, and with a touch of romance - all presented in a fairly Clean package (See notes below). I enjoyed TMMT and recommend it to readers who would appreciate a lively adventure racing through the wild deserts and canyons of New Mexico on a quest of “historical significance” and possible treasure with greedy opportunists lurking around every corner attempting to snatch it. TMMT moves quickly, with constant twists and turns. There was a sense of fun in this novel that I enjoyed - rather than bitter reality, and graphic realism. A great de-stressing novel.
The FMC/Erin Hale in The Mad Monk’s Treasure teaches history at a small southwestern college of science. The MMC/Drew Morgan grew up on a Montana ranch, served in the military as an Air Force pilot, learned to fly helicopters, and now owns his own flying company doing contractual work. Erin and her best friend, Cami, hire Drew to fly their hiking gear to the beginning point of their search. Drew becomes more involved in Erin and Cami’s hunt when their lives are threatened. Someone is willing to injure (or kill) to obtain the treasure for themselves. The Mad Monk’s Treasure is book #1 in a three book series, yet each book can be read either as a standalone title or as part of the series. After finishing TMMT, I immediately purchased book#3 in the series - The Skeleton Canyon Treasure - which is Cami’s story (Erin’s friend). I will most likely return for book #2, but I can’t wait to hear Cami’s story - I was captivated by her in The Mad Monk’s Treasure. The Mad Monk’s Adventure also features a large ginger cat who assists the protagonists in defeating the Bad Guys.
Reader Caution -
Violence - Minimal. PG/PG-13 level as in a Western movie (think Gunsmoke or Bonanza television). Fist/gun fights, kidnapping attempts, none portrayed in a graphic manner.
Profanity - None. (That I recall).
Sexual situations - Yes, but the one intimate scene quickly fades to “off-scene.” Otherwise light kissing.
I enjoyed this light-hearted action adventure story and recommend it except to those readers who would be offended by the aforementioned.
The FMC/Erin Hale in The Mad Monk’s Treasure teaches history at a small southwestern college of science. The MMC/Drew Morgan grew up on a Montana ranch, served in the military as an Air Force pilot, learned to fly helicopters, and now owns his own flying company doing contractual work. Erin and her best friend, Cami, hire Drew to fly their hiking gear to the beginning point of their search. Drew becomes more involved in Erin and Cami’s hunt when their lives are threatened. Someone is willing to injure (or kill) to obtain the treasure for themselves. The Mad Monk’s Treasure is book #1 in a three book series, yet each book can be read either as a standalone title or as part of the series. After finishing TMMT, I immediately purchased book#3 in the series - The Skeleton Canyon Treasure - which is Cami’s story (Erin’s friend). I will most likely return for book #2, but I can’t wait to hear Cami’s story - I was captivated by her in The Mad Monk’s Treasure. The Mad Monk’s Adventure also features a large ginger cat who assists the protagonists in defeating the Bad Guys.
Reader Caution -
Violence - Minimal. PG/PG-13 level as in a Western movie (think Gunsmoke or Bonanza television). Fist/gun fights, kidnapping attempts, none portrayed in a graphic manner.
Profanity - None. (That I recall).
Sexual situations - Yes, but the one intimate scene quickly fades to “off-scene.” Otherwise light kissing.
I enjoyed this light-hearted action adventure story and recommend it except to those readers who would be offended by the aforementioned.
June 15, 2018
The Mad Monk's Treasure - a review by Rosemary Kenny
Erin and her pal Camie are searching for a treasure hidden in the desert of New Mexico by a renegade monk, Felipe La Rue in this amazing adventure story by Kris Bock.
Pursued by unscrupulous enemies, eager for the treasure beyond limit, Erin and Camie must enlist the help of Drew, although Erin has her doubts after he's conveniently placed to rescue her from a road-rage attack during which Erin's flung, injured, into a ditch. Camie's would-be lover Mitchell also seems to have a violent streak when thwarted.
As the search leads to a new area, are the women at risk? Whose side is Drew on - can he be trusted?
What are Mitchell's motives? How far will he go to fulfill his dreams?
When is there a second car chase? What happens to the women? How does Camie save Erin later?
If you're a fan of outdoor adventures and feisty females overcoming the odds, with a little romance to sweeten the deal, you're really in for a treat with this first book in the Southwest Treasure Hunters series by Kris Bock. Grab your copy today - and tell all your friends!
Erin and her pal Camie are searching for a treasure hidden in the desert of New Mexico by a renegade monk, Felipe La Rue in this amazing adventure story by Kris Bock.
Pursued by unscrupulous enemies, eager for the treasure beyond limit, Erin and Camie must enlist the help of Drew, although Erin has her doubts after he's conveniently placed to rescue her from a road-rage attack during which Erin's flung, injured, into a ditch. Camie's would-be lover Mitchell also seems to have a violent streak when thwarted.
As the search leads to a new area, are the women at risk? Whose side is Drew on - can he be trusted?
What are Mitchell's motives? How far will he go to fulfill his dreams?
When is there a second car chase? What happens to the women? How does Camie save Erin later?
If you're a fan of outdoor adventures and feisty females overcoming the odds, with a little romance to sweeten the deal, you're really in for a treat with this first book in the Southwest Treasure Hunters series by Kris Bock. Grab your copy today - and tell all your friends!
March 5, 2018
Romance, adventure, excitement-- treasure hunting and danger! Who could ask for more? Two intrepid females one a college professor the other her best friend and inventor heading into the New Mexico/Arizona desert looking for oddly enough the mad monk's treasure! With bad guys going after our lovely history professor and danger coming at them from all sides--- and the best part? The heroic cat and the nasty rattle snakes! Come along on this wild ride!
November 24, 2019
Awesome book
I got this book a couple of years ago and just put aside. What a stupid thing to do! This is an awesome book! Once I finally started reading it I couldn't put it down! A couple of time I got so tense, lol, I had to put the book down. Just when things got calm, wham! Another something happened. It kept me on the edge of my seat. I loved it, enjoy, I did.
I got this book a couple of years ago and just put aside. What a stupid thing to do! This is an awesome book! Once I finally started reading it I couldn't put it down! A couple of time I got so tense, lol, I had to put the book down. Just when things got calm, wham! Another something happened. It kept me on the edge of my seat. I loved it, enjoy, I did.
March 5, 2018
The Mad Monk's Treasure (Southwest Treasure Hunters Book 1)
I enjoyed reading this story, and the characters involved. I hope the other books in this series will be as interesting.
I enjoyed reading this story, and the characters involved. I hope the other books in this series will be as interesting.
May 30, 2020
Bit of romance, bit of adventure, few Villon to make it all come together in the hunt for the long buried treasure. You cannot go wrong with this story line and Kris bock handled it all with aplomb. It deserves every star in the 5 star.
August 7, 2020
Treasure in the Desert
Excellent old fashioned adventure in a modern day setting. Female Indianna Jones type, Erin and her loyal friend, Camie and guard cat Tiger. Loved the history and Southwest setting. Romance and danger and a cat - what could be better?
Excellent old fashioned adventure in a modern day setting. Female Indianna Jones type, Erin and her loyal friend, Camie and guard cat Tiger. Loved the history and Southwest setting. Romance and danger and a cat - what could be better?
June 17, 2021
If you like high action stories this romance is for you. Two women search for a lost treasure while pursued by ruthless men . Enter a handsome, heroic helicopter pilot, and the story really heats up. Highly recommended.
April 12, 2023
Great story
This is a great story. Well developed characters to go along with a well thought out storyline. Full of intrigue, suspense, drama and deception throughout the story.
This is a great story. Well developed characters to go along with a well thought out storyline. Full of intrigue, suspense, drama and deception throughout the story.
February 3, 2018
great adventure, good romantic suspense.
March 22, 2020
The eroticism ruined what had been a good book.
March 2, 2021
A good start to a new series.
Read
July 12, 2021Awesome Book!
This book is amazing! It hits all the boxes...action, intrigue, romance, treasure, humor....all taking place in the beautiful desecrated of New Mexico!
This book is amazing! It hits all the boxes...action, intrigue, romance, treasure, humor....all taking place in the beautiful desecrated of New Mexico!
December 4, 2021
Treasure hunt.
A history professor thinks she may have found a treasure map. Now the plot thickens and the action keeps you reading and guessing.
A history professor thinks she may have found a treasure map. Now the plot thickens and the action keeps you reading and guessing.
February 8, 2025
Thrilling!
I love romantic suspense, and this book did not disappoint! It grabbed my attention from the get go and wouldn't let go. Highly recommend it.
I love romantic suspense, and this book did not disappoint! It grabbed my attention from the get go and wouldn't let go. Highly recommend it.
March 10, 2017
I really enjoyed this book - despite rattlesnakes, tarantulas and bad guys. In fact, the characters are delightful and keep the story from getting dark at all. The New Mexico setting made me itch to travel, the setting feels like an added character in the story. Erin is a smart woman learning to build her confidence by emulating her best friend Kamie. She is genuine and I found myself cheering her on. Drew is sexy and hunky and everything you want in your hero. The romance is touching, the women's friendship adds depth and warmth to the story and the bad guys are appropriately menacing. Overall, it was a quick, fun read.
October 13, 2011
The premise of this romantic suspense intrigued me: treasure hunting in the Southwest by a college history professor. The setting and plot line combine several of my own passions.
Unfortunately, although I should have been able to identify with the mature heroine, Erin, I found that she was too often characterized in a way more suitable for a teenager: the two women scream at each other in excitement when she finds the essential clue; she figures one of the mysterious men who show a romantic interest in her is “so damn cute,” he surely couldn’t be a bad guy; she and her friend Camie act like “little girls whispering secrets at a slumber party,” etc. Overall, Camie is more interesting than Erin, though Erin’s development of courage and daring throughout the book is a nice touch.
In contrast to the women, the men are too stereotypical of the romantic suspense genre: Drew as ex-military, a helicopter pilot who hangs out in bars and isn’t “used to women ignoring him”; Mitchell as a greedy, self-serving mining company employee; the thugs as mobster types who wouldn’t have looked out of place in New Jersey. Drew also does a lot of eavesdropping, which seems uncharacteristically weak for a man with his background. And Mitchell, the erstwhile boyfriend, winds up “defending his territory [Erin] from a strange male” while she’s in the hospital.
The plot, for which I had such high hopes, quickly became shopworn and degenerated into unbelievable life-threatening events: a high-speed offroad vehicle chase, an inexperienced rider riding a strange horse bareback cross-country, not just one but two tangles with rattlesnakes, a flash flood, and fight scenes pitting unarmed women’s self-defense skills against guns and knives. Oddly, despite all these action scenes, the pacing sometimes got bogged down, with too much passive time spent in Erin’s head.
Other flaws in terms of writing style include the author’s approach to descriptions, which are clear but not compelling and verge on cliché: “land undulated in pink and tan waves”; eyes “blue as a desert sky on a summer day”; “cheeks sore from smiling.” In addition, the punctuation in dialogue sometimes makes it difficult to read.
Apart from such minor issues, though, the writing is pleasant and engaging. The point of view is maintained well, except for a few places where the formatting appears to be messed up, with one character’s POV flowing into another without even a period at the end of the preceding paragraph. The author tells a good story that is bound to appeal to many readers.
************
Editorial quibbles for those who are bothered by such things:
This book is largely clean and error-free, except a few scene/POV transitions (mentioned above) and some misused words (“Calvary” instead of “Cavalry,” “bellow” instead of “below,” “mantle” instead of “mantel,” etc.).
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book to review.
Unfortunately, although I should have been able to identify with the mature heroine, Erin, I found that she was too often characterized in a way more suitable for a teenager: the two women scream at each other in excitement when she finds the essential clue; she figures one of the mysterious men who show a romantic interest in her is “so damn cute,” he surely couldn’t be a bad guy; she and her friend Camie act like “little girls whispering secrets at a slumber party,” etc. Overall, Camie is more interesting than Erin, though Erin’s development of courage and daring throughout the book is a nice touch.
In contrast to the women, the men are too stereotypical of the romantic suspense genre: Drew as ex-military, a helicopter pilot who hangs out in bars and isn’t “used to women ignoring him”; Mitchell as a greedy, self-serving mining company employee; the thugs as mobster types who wouldn’t have looked out of place in New Jersey. Drew also does a lot of eavesdropping, which seems uncharacteristically weak for a man with his background. And Mitchell, the erstwhile boyfriend, winds up “defending his territory [Erin] from a strange male” while she’s in the hospital.
The plot, for which I had such high hopes, quickly became shopworn and degenerated into unbelievable life-threatening events: a high-speed offroad vehicle chase, an inexperienced rider riding a strange horse bareback cross-country, not just one but two tangles with rattlesnakes, a flash flood, and fight scenes pitting unarmed women’s self-defense skills against guns and knives. Oddly, despite all these action scenes, the pacing sometimes got bogged down, with too much passive time spent in Erin’s head.
Other flaws in terms of writing style include the author’s approach to descriptions, which are clear but not compelling and verge on cliché: “land undulated in pink and tan waves”; eyes “blue as a desert sky on a summer day”; “cheeks sore from smiling.” In addition, the punctuation in dialogue sometimes makes it difficult to read.
Apart from such minor issues, though, the writing is pleasant and engaging. The point of view is maintained well, except for a few places where the formatting appears to be messed up, with one character’s POV flowing into another without even a period at the end of the preceding paragraph. The author tells a good story that is bound to appeal to many readers.
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Editorial quibbles for those who are bothered by such things:
This book is largely clean and error-free, except a few scene/POV transitions (mentioned above) and some misused words (“Calvary” instead of “Cavalry,” “bellow” instead of “below,” “mantle” instead of “mantel,” etc.).
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book to review.
February 19, 2017
Erin is a historian at a local college in New Mexico who wants to embark upon an archaeological challenge. She and her best friend, Camie, are determined to set out to find the the legendary treasure of Victorio Peak. Their plans are delayed, however, after Erin has an accident. A person in a black SUV hit her, and she was thrown off her bike into a ditch. A man named Drew witnessed the event and rescued Erin. Shortly after she begins to recover, she and Drew run into each other again at a local bar. It is not long before the two of them start to develop feelings for each other. After Erin has some time to recover, she and Camie embark upon their long and dangerous journey, completely unaware of all the perils that lie ahead. These smart, brave, and srong women will not be deterred! Mad Monk's Treaure is ripe with excellent and suspense, romance,leading the reader to question what will happen next.
September 13, 2016
Even though I have read all of Ms. Kris Bock’s books out of reading order I read the third one first then this book. It didn’t really matter because the book is pretty easy to understand and can be read as a standalone plus Ms. Bock just knows how to tell a good story by drawing us readers into the story. I never felt that the story was lacking and it really felt like visiting old friends again learning their stories the first time especially the strong beautiful independent female protagonists that made me not only cheer for them but the handsome male protagonist was not to be out done or out shone by the female leads. Ms. Bock just can write such interesting stories that not only are filled with adventure, action packed but light romantic suspense. I kept thinking Indiana Jones sure has nothing on these women they are definitely a force to be reckoned with.
The lost Victorio Peak treasure is the stuff of legends and when Erin a shy quiet history professor cracks the code and knows where to find the treasure she excitingly tells her best friend Camie that she found something and will be over soon to discuss her findings. So Erin leaves on her bike to go to Camie’s house. Erin is suddenly in an accident but is saved by Drew from possible death and taken to the hospital but is Drew someone that wants the treasure as badly as Erin and Camie wants to claim it or is it someone Erin is close too. Who does Erin trust?
I loved the quiet introverted shy but determined smart heroine Erin. She seemed like someone I could relate to for some reason even though I am nothing like her. A few times Erin did seem weak and I did get frustrated with her I wanted her to stand her ground in the end she did and I couldn’t help but root for her. While Camie seemed ostentatious and a bit overbearing Erin seemed to balance everyone out. Even Drew who I couldn’t help but like even though I wanted more into him I still couldn’t help but like him. I loved the verbal sparring between Camie and him. I loved how he treated Erin but most of all I loved Tiger who endeared me to him from the other book about him to this book he’s just a wonderful cat even though he seems to have his own agenda it all works out in the end. I was kind of sad to see the book end but can’t wait to read the second book which I will definitely do and then will have to go back and actually read these books in order.
The lost Victorio Peak treasure is the stuff of legends and when Erin a shy quiet history professor cracks the code and knows where to find the treasure she excitingly tells her best friend Camie that she found something and will be over soon to discuss her findings. So Erin leaves on her bike to go to Camie’s house. Erin is suddenly in an accident but is saved by Drew from possible death and taken to the hospital but is Drew someone that wants the treasure as badly as Erin and Camie wants to claim it or is it someone Erin is close too. Who does Erin trust?
I loved the quiet introverted shy but determined smart heroine Erin. She seemed like someone I could relate to for some reason even though I am nothing like her. A few times Erin did seem weak and I did get frustrated with her I wanted her to stand her ground in the end she did and I couldn’t help but root for her. While Camie seemed ostentatious and a bit overbearing Erin seemed to balance everyone out. Even Drew who I couldn’t help but like even though I wanted more into him I still couldn’t help but like him. I loved the verbal sparring between Camie and him. I loved how he treated Erin but most of all I loved Tiger who endeared me to him from the other book about him to this book he’s just a wonderful cat even though he seems to have his own agenda it all works out in the end. I was kind of sad to see the book end but can’t wait to read the second book which I will definitely do and then will have to go back and actually read these books in order.
February 15, 2017
Available Kindle Unlimited but received first book just couldn't make it transfer right so pulled it up on ku.. Luv books such as this, and since on kindle unlimited will be looking in to reading the other ones.
The Mad Monk’s Treasure (Southwest Treasure Hunters Book 1)
The Dead Man's Treasure (Southwest Treasure Hunters Book 2)
The Skeleton Canyon Treasure (Southwest Treasure Hunters Book 3)
some other books of this type, check out the author page
The Mad Monk’s Treasure (Southwest Treasure Hunters Book 1)
The Dead Man's Treasure (Southwest Treasure Hunters Book 2)
The Skeleton Canyon Treasure (Southwest Treasure Hunters Book 3)
some other books of this type, check out the author page
February 12, 2017
I received a copy of this book from the author and this is an honest review. So this book was truly enjoyable I do love history and treasure hunts and this book just happened to have a little romance mixed in. Erin doesn't know who to trust after she is injured going to meet her friend. She is preparing for a treasure hunt and Drew seems to be there to rescue her. It's a truly intriguing story don't pass this one up.
May 7, 2015
I could not put down this book!! I loved it. It had so much packed into it:
Mystery
Action
Adventure
Treasure Hunting
A little Romance
I normally read romance books, but at times I like to read books with a bit of action and mystery in it. This book definitely had me sitting on the edge of my seat. Normally the background of books I read are not set in the Southwest so this was a first for me and I loved it. It was different.
Erin and Camie are great friends, who have each other's back no matter what. That reminds me of my best friends. A friend like that you must have. Good friends are hard to find.
Add in a helicopter pilot!! Yum! Erin does not know if he is one of those bad men after her or if he is a good guy. Not going to tell you which one. Read this book!! You will love the action and the mystery behind the treasure hunting.
☆☆☆☆☆
I give this book 5 out of 5 stars.
Would I recommend this book? Yes! Author? Yes!
Would I read more from this author? Yes!
Happy Reading!
Melissa
Mystery
Action
Adventure
Treasure Hunting
A little Romance
I normally read romance books, but at times I like to read books with a bit of action and mystery in it. This book definitely had me sitting on the edge of my seat. Normally the background of books I read are not set in the Southwest so this was a first for me and I loved it. It was different.
Erin and Camie are great friends, who have each other's back no matter what. That reminds me of my best friends. A friend like that you must have. Good friends are hard to find.
Add in a helicopter pilot!! Yum! Erin does not know if he is one of those bad men after her or if he is a good guy. Not going to tell you which one. Read this book!! You will love the action and the mystery behind the treasure hunting.
☆☆☆☆☆
I give this book 5 out of 5 stars.
Would I recommend this book? Yes! Author? Yes!
Would I read more from this author? Yes!
Happy Reading!
Melissa
March 16, 2015
Smart romance with an "Indiana Jones" feel. Well-written with an attention to detail that allowed me to picture exactly in my head how a scene looked and played out. Great balance of history, romance, and adventure.
I truly had fun reading this book. Erin and Drew perfectly compliment each other as a couple. I know that probably sounds sappy but there is so much going on in the story that there isn't time for typical petty dramas associated with a newly formed relationship. Cammie and Tiger have to be two of my favorite supporting characters I have read. Tiger has me wanting to head to the pound to pick up a little furball myself. And for Cammie I have great hope that she will find a man that will be able to handle her volatile mix of brains, beauty, and ingenuity.
I will definitely be looking at more of Kris Bock's books to read!
I truly had fun reading this book. Erin and Drew perfectly compliment each other as a couple. I know that probably sounds sappy but there is so much going on in the story that there isn't time for typical petty dramas associated with a newly formed relationship. Cammie and Tiger have to be two of my favorite supporting characters I have read. Tiger has me wanting to head to the pound to pick up a little furball myself. And for Cammie I have great hope that she will find a man that will be able to handle her volatile mix of brains, beauty, and ingenuity.
I will definitely be looking at more of Kris Bock's books to read!
May 7, 2015
What an awesome storyline. Lots of adventure, a mystery, drama , some bad guys and a treasure hunt. Erin and Camie are just loads of fun and you have to love Tiger the treasure hunting, bad guy stopping attack cat. This will appeal to all those treasure hunters out there who have never gone past the research stage. The excitement of the find, the wit and friendship these two have for each other and the trouble that seems to follow them is quite the tale and will keep you glued to your seat. This was fast, fun, had some romance and lots of adventure. A truly enjoyable read that I would recommend to anyone. I can't wait to see what adventures they have next.
December 6, 2016
Erin, a college history professor, along with her best friend, Camie, has been searching for a year to locate the lost Mad Monk's Treasure. Erin finally locates a huge clue after a year of research. Camie & Erin are eager to set out searching. However, immediately Erin finds herself in danger. Erin is rescued by Drew, a local helicopter pilot, who is quickly drawn into their plans and shows an immediate attraction Erin and desire to keep her safe. These 3 set out on a fast paced, exciting adventure to locate the treasure.
March 16, 2015
This book was full of action and kept my attention. The description of the scenery was making me feel like I could imagine myself there. There was a lot going on at times and other times I wanted to smack the heroine, but once I continued and read all of the way through, I was happy I did because I did enjoy it. This was a nice read and was written well saving all of the graphic scenes and rough language for much heavier books and it was refreshing.
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