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Against - The Raines of Wind Canyon #5
Against the Night
He knows what goes on in the dark.
She's got the face of an angel and the body of… well, isn't that what he'd expect from an exotic dancer? But there's something about this girl that Johnnie Riggs can't shake. The former army ranger is hot on the trail of an elusive drug lord, and suddenly very hot under the collar, as well.
Amy's got her own agenda to pursue: her sister is missing and Amy seems to be the only one who cares. She'll enlist Johnnie's help and do her best to ignore her growing attraction to finally get some answers. But when the two trails begin to converge and reveal something even more sinister than they imagined, their mutual desire is the least of their problems. They'll bring the truth to light…or die trying.
She's got the face of an angel and the body of… well, isn't that what he'd expect from an exotic dancer? But there's something about this girl that Johnnie Riggs can't shake. The former army ranger is hot on the trail of an elusive drug lord, and suddenly very hot under the collar, as well.
Amy's got her own agenda to pursue: her sister is missing and Amy seems to be the only one who cares. She'll enlist Johnnie's help and do her best to ignore her growing attraction to finally get some answers. But when the two trails begin to converge and reveal something even more sinister than they imagined, their mutual desire is the least of their problems. They'll bring the truth to light…or die trying.
394 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published January 1, 2012
205 people are currently reading
1274 people want to read
About the author
Kat Martin
189 books3,173 followersKathleen Kelly Martin (aka Kathy Lawrence, Kasey Mars)
Kathleen Kelly was born on 14 July 1947 in the Central Valley of California, USA. She obtained a degree in Anthropology and also studied History at the University of California in Santa Barbara. She was a real estate broker, when she met her future husband, Larry Jay Martin. A short time after the two became acquainted, Larry asked her to read an unpublished manuscript of an historical western he'd written. Kat fell in love with both the book and the author! Then, after doing some editing for him, she thought she'd try her own hand at writing. She moved on to become a full time writer.
Published since 1988, she signed her books with her married name, Kat Martin, but she also used two pseudonyms: Kathy Lawrence for a book in collaboration with her husband Larry Jay Martin, and Kasey Mars for her first contemporary romances. The New York Times bestselling writer, among her many awards, has won the prestigious RT Book Review Magazine Career Achievement Award. To date, Kat has over eleven million copies of her books in print. She has been published in seventeen foreign countries, including England, South Africa, Spain, Argentina, Germany, Italy, Greece, Norway, Sweden, Russia, Bulgaria, China, and Korea.
Currently residing with her husband, a Western-writer and photographer, in Missoula, Montana, USA. But when they are not writing, they also enjoy skiing and traveling, particularly to Europe.
"I've always loved books. I was an avid reader, with any number of my own stories rolling around in my head. Writing them down seemed a logical step."
"I love anything old," Kat says. "I love to travel and especially like to visit the places where my books are set. My husband and I often stay in out-of-the-way inns and houses built in times past. It's fun and it gives a wonderful sense of a by-gone era."
Kathleen Kelly was born on 14 July 1947 in the Central Valley of California, USA. She obtained a degree in Anthropology and also studied History at the University of California in Santa Barbara. She was a real estate broker, when she met her future husband, Larry Jay Martin. A short time after the two became acquainted, Larry asked her to read an unpublished manuscript of an historical western he'd written. Kat fell in love with both the book and the author! Then, after doing some editing for him, she thought she'd try her own hand at writing. She moved on to become a full time writer.
Published since 1988, she signed her books with her married name, Kat Martin, but she also used two pseudonyms: Kathy Lawrence for a book in collaboration with her husband Larry Jay Martin, and Kasey Mars for her first contemporary romances. The New York Times bestselling writer, among her many awards, has won the prestigious RT Book Review Magazine Career Achievement Award. To date, Kat has over eleven million copies of her books in print. She has been published in seventeen foreign countries, including England, South Africa, Spain, Argentina, Germany, Italy, Greece, Norway, Sweden, Russia, Bulgaria, China, and Korea.
Currently residing with her husband, a Western-writer and photographer, in Missoula, Montana, USA. But when they are not writing, they also enjoy skiing and traveling, particularly to Europe.
"I've always loved books. I was an avid reader, with any number of my own stories rolling around in my head. Writing them down seemed a logical step."
"I love anything old," Kat says. "I love to travel and especially like to visit the places where my books are set. My husband and I often stay in out-of-the-way inns and houses built in times past. It's fun and it gives a wonderful sense of a by-gone era."
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 171 reviews
March 3, 2012
4 ½-5 stars – Romantic Suspense
Oh I really enjoyed this one! A sexy, rugged former Army Ranger turned PI alpha hero and a sweet, spunky teacher masquerading as a stripper to find her missing sister have scorching hot chemistry. It’s got the perfect mix of steamy romance, suspense, drama, and action, great characters, and even had me tearing up. I’d only previously read the first book of the series, Against the Wind, but this worked really well as a standalone read.
Oh I really enjoyed this one! A sexy, rugged former Army Ranger turned PI alpha hero and a sweet, spunky teacher masquerading as a stripper to find her missing sister have scorching hot chemistry. It’s got the perfect mix of steamy romance, suspense, drama, and action, great characters, and even had me tearing up. I’d only previously read the first book of the series, Against the Wind, but this worked really well as a standalone read.
February 29, 2012
Review posted: Happily Ever After - Reads
Blog rating: 3.5/5
I’ve always liked a hero/heroine combination that puts a strong, alpha male who likes to be in charge, falling for a quiet, sort of shy and in this case, a nice kindergarten teacher, who turns out to be much tougher than she seems. Amy has come to L.A. to try to figure out what happened to her missing sister, Rachael. She starts asking questions to the wrong people and needs Johnnie’s help. On the case, they track a lot of different leads, we’re introduced to many people, many potential enemies and Johnnie calls in some help in the form of old friends and new to try and find Rachael.
The story felt well balanced between the relationship for Johnnie and Amy and the suspense plot of finding Rachael and figuring out what she was in the middle of, which turns out to be a lot more involved than anyone originally thought. Johnnie and Amy had instant attraction at first sight. Amy had been working as an exotic dancer, the same place that Rachael had been working at when she disappeared. Amy, hoping to ask the right questions to the right people to get information, runs into Johnnie at the club and their relationship takes off. She makes a couple decisions where I couldn’t decide if she was really dumb or really smart, but I will say, she doesn’t hold back or hide behind Johnnie, much to his dismay. It’s a sweet relationship between them, but one where Johnnie knows that nothing more can come of it. He’s not the marrying kind, not looking at ever having a family, she lives in another state, etc. etc. etc. This got a little old as they both believed that even though they loved each other, this wasn’t a long term relationship. That said, I did enjoy their scenes together, the scenes in the bedroom…living room…on the beach – all crazy hot and I liked them as a couple.
He took a sip of his beer. “You intrigue me. I want to take you out. I’m hoping once you realize how harmless I am, you’ll agree.”
He didn’t look harmless. He looked like a big, lazy cat ready to pounce at any moment…”
The suspense and figuring out what exactly happened to Rachael had me flipping the pages at a quick pace. It’s been awhile since the suspense portion of a book really grabbed my attention above all other story lines, but I was fully into Rachael’s story. The resolution to finding Rachael doesn’t come at the very end of the book, there’s more to figure out, and I liked that it ended up not just being about getting Rachael back, but going beyond and putting the clues together that ends up with a few fingers being pointed at guilty parties.
I did love/hate one aspect of Rachael's story - it is a bit of a spoiler...
A cheat sheet would have been handy going in because there are a lot of different players in this story. It’s a little hard to keep track of who’s considered good, who’s a suspect, who knows Rachael and when – there are many people being mentioned and showing up on page and I was rereading parts to keep them all straight. One portion of the suspense plot that bugged me was a loose end with another missing woman. She’s referenced in one scene and I kept waiting to hear what happened to her, but there was never any mention of her again. I think it’s safe to assume what happened to her, but I was distracted when it felt like she was just forgotten about which bothers me because of the scene and condition she was found in.
AGAINST THE NIGHT is book 5 in The Raines of Wind Canyon series and can absolutely be read as a standalone. The main romance between Johnnie and Amy was a nice match; Johnnie is especially swoon worthy in many scenes when he’s trying his hardest to protect Amy. I was really drawn to Rachael and it packs a solid punch as an interesting side story. An overall nice read, and even though there are a lot of characters packed into the story, that at times felt distracting, the relationship with Johnnie and Amy was well done and enjoyable.
Blog rating: 3.5/5
I’ve always liked a hero/heroine combination that puts a strong, alpha male who likes to be in charge, falling for a quiet, sort of shy and in this case, a nice kindergarten teacher, who turns out to be much tougher than she seems. Amy has come to L.A. to try to figure out what happened to her missing sister, Rachael. She starts asking questions to the wrong people and needs Johnnie’s help. On the case, they track a lot of different leads, we’re introduced to many people, many potential enemies and Johnnie calls in some help in the form of old friends and new to try and find Rachael.
The story felt well balanced between the relationship for Johnnie and Amy and the suspense plot of finding Rachael and figuring out what she was in the middle of, which turns out to be a lot more involved than anyone originally thought. Johnnie and Amy had instant attraction at first sight. Amy had been working as an exotic dancer, the same place that Rachael had been working at when she disappeared. Amy, hoping to ask the right questions to the right people to get information, runs into Johnnie at the club and their relationship takes off. She makes a couple decisions where I couldn’t decide if she was really dumb or really smart, but I will say, she doesn’t hold back or hide behind Johnnie, much to his dismay. It’s a sweet relationship between them, but one where Johnnie knows that nothing more can come of it. He’s not the marrying kind, not looking at ever having a family, she lives in another state, etc. etc. etc. This got a little old as they both believed that even though they loved each other, this wasn’t a long term relationship. That said, I did enjoy their scenes together, the scenes in the bedroom…living room…on the beach – all crazy hot and I liked them as a couple.
He took a sip of his beer. “You intrigue me. I want to take you out. I’m hoping once you realize how harmless I am, you’ll agree.”
He didn’t look harmless. He looked like a big, lazy cat ready to pounce at any moment…”
The suspense and figuring out what exactly happened to Rachael had me flipping the pages at a quick pace. It’s been awhile since the suspense portion of a book really grabbed my attention above all other story lines, but I was fully into Rachael’s story. The resolution to finding Rachael doesn’t come at the very end of the book, there’s more to figure out, and I liked that it ended up not just being about getting Rachael back, but going beyond and putting the clues together that ends up with a few fingers being pointed at guilty parties.
I did love/hate one aspect of Rachael's story - it is a bit of a spoiler...
A cheat sheet would have been handy going in because there are a lot of different players in this story. It’s a little hard to keep track of who’s considered good, who’s a suspect, who knows Rachael and when – there are many people being mentioned and showing up on page and I was rereading parts to keep them all straight. One portion of the suspense plot that bugged me was a loose end with another missing woman. She’s referenced in one scene and I kept waiting to hear what happened to her, but there was never any mention of her again. I think it’s safe to assume what happened to her, but I was distracted when it felt like she was just forgotten about which bothers me because of the scene and condition she was found in.
AGAINST THE NIGHT is book 5 in The Raines of Wind Canyon series and can absolutely be read as a standalone. The main romance between Johnnie and Amy was a nice match; Johnnie is especially swoon worthy in many scenes when he’s trying his hardest to protect Amy. I was really drawn to Rachael and it packs a solid punch as an interesting side story. An overall nice read, and even though there are a lot of characters packed into the story, that at times felt distracting, the relationship with Johnnie and Amy was well done and enjoyable.
March 17, 2018
I am sorry for the amount of swearing that is about to happen but I have the rage.
Fuck this fucking book. Fuck this fucking hero.
Johnny was PATHETIC. Like truly, pathetic. I haven't hated a hero like this in a long fucking while. He spent the WHOLE book, no exaggeration, going on and on and on and on and on about how he could never be long term with a woman. That he would never commit to one woman. Would never love anyone. He was a lone wolf. And he could especially never be with...a kindergarten teacher. Oh the horror. There is nothing, I repeat nothing, less attractive that a good for nothing commitment phobe. I honestly don't understand how anyone can be with someone they have strong feelings for, who spends the whole time making it clear they don't want anything more than fucking you.
The entire book was just Johnny saying how it would never work between them, and Amy believed it too, because she was a kindergarten teacher and he was a PI? Like what the fuck even. I mean she spent half the book working as a stripper, she chased gangsters, she worked her sisters case better than anyone else, so she was plenty fucking tough. So why the FUCK did it matter if she was a kindergarten teacher? I fucking hate him. He was just a total loser with the emotional maturity of a spoon. Honestly, do people find this kind of lad attractive? "I'll fuck you but I'll never be with you" naaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaah. AND IT WAS THE WHOLE BOOK. THE WHOLE FUCKING BOOK. And she was just so understanding! I wanted to shake her and tell her she could do MUCH better. Like waaaaaaay better.
Also I need to stop believing people's shelves because he was marked as a chaser but no way in hell was he a chaser. I don't count hounding a lassie into bed and then pushing her away emotionally as chasing.
Fuck this fucking book. Fuck this fucking hero.
Johnny was PATHETIC. Like truly, pathetic. I haven't hated a hero like this in a long fucking while. He spent the WHOLE book, no exaggeration, going on and on and on and on and on about how he could never be long term with a woman. That he would never commit to one woman. Would never love anyone. He was a lone wolf. And he could especially never be with...a kindergarten teacher. Oh the horror. There is nothing, I repeat nothing, less attractive that a good for nothing commitment phobe. I honestly don't understand how anyone can be with someone they have strong feelings for, who spends the whole time making it clear they don't want anything more than fucking you.
The entire book was just Johnny saying how it would never work between them, and Amy believed it too, because she was a kindergarten teacher and he was a PI? Like what the fuck even. I mean she spent half the book working as a stripper, she chased gangsters, she worked her sisters case better than anyone else, so she was plenty fucking tough. So why the FUCK did it matter if she was a kindergarten teacher? I fucking hate him. He was just a total loser with the emotional maturity of a spoon. Honestly, do people find this kind of lad attractive? "I'll fuck you but I'll never be with you" naaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaah. AND IT WAS THE WHOLE BOOK. THE WHOLE FUCKING BOOK. And she was just so understanding! I wanted to shake her and tell her she could do MUCH better. Like waaaaaaay better.
Also I need to stop believing people's shelves because he was marked as a chaser but no way in hell was he a chaser. I don't count hounding a lassie into bed and then pushing her away emotionally as chasing.
March 8, 2012
Against the Night by Kat Martin
March 8, 2012
Kat Martin is an author who knows how to spin a tale (of course, she is a bestselling author of over fifty Historical and Contemporary Romance novels with over twelve million copies of her books sold world-wide in twenty foreign countries) and she still manages to come up with a great story line. Against the Night is refreshing, tantalizing, and full of mystery.
In Against the Night, I enjoyed the story line as it moved along at a satisfying pace, yet kept me guessing at every turn. The characters were well developed and likable, even downright lovable. The book opened with a great beginning that instantly kept me turning the pages. Against the Night has sex, intrigue, sexy intrigue, love, and passion.
Take a naïve kindergarten schoolteacher from Grand Rapids, Michigan pretending to be a stripper, who has the hots for an ex-soldier bounty hunter hunk of a guy, and toss in a major drug cartel and you’re cooking up a gumbo in a cast iron pot.
Against the Night was a fully developed story from the beginning to the middle to the end. I did not come across any grammatical errors. As with all of her books, Kat Martin has done an amazing job of presenting the reader with a wonderful love story chocked full of love and mystery and intrigue that will have you turning the pages faster than you ever dreamed imaginable, and leaving you breathlessly satisfied in the end.
Against the Night is the fifth in the Against series, and the only one I have read. Although it is my understanding that some of the characters from the previous books make an appearance in this book, I would consider it a stand-alone book.
March 8, 2012
Kat Martin is an author who knows how to spin a tale (of course, she is a bestselling author of over fifty Historical and Contemporary Romance novels with over twelve million copies of her books sold world-wide in twenty foreign countries) and she still manages to come up with a great story line. Against the Night is refreshing, tantalizing, and full of mystery.
In Against the Night, I enjoyed the story line as it moved along at a satisfying pace, yet kept me guessing at every turn. The characters were well developed and likable, even downright lovable. The book opened with a great beginning that instantly kept me turning the pages. Against the Night has sex, intrigue, sexy intrigue, love, and passion.
Take a naïve kindergarten schoolteacher from Grand Rapids, Michigan pretending to be a stripper, who has the hots for an ex-soldier bounty hunter hunk of a guy, and toss in a major drug cartel and you’re cooking up a gumbo in a cast iron pot.
Against the Night was a fully developed story from the beginning to the middle to the end. I did not come across any grammatical errors. As with all of her books, Kat Martin has done an amazing job of presenting the reader with a wonderful love story chocked full of love and mystery and intrigue that will have you turning the pages faster than you ever dreamed imaginable, and leaving you breathlessly satisfied in the end.
Against the Night is the fifth in the Against series, and the only one I have read. Although it is my understanding that some of the characters from the previous books make an appearance in this book, I would consider it a stand-alone book.
December 27, 2012
3-1/2 stars.
A solid romantic suspense read. The heroine was nice and spunky. She had moments where she might have tipped over into TSTL but the author saved it by not making the stuff she did too dangerous and setting the whole thing up really well that she was determined to save her sister. The hero was hot and was one of those guys who knew how to do what he did and he was good at it. He wasn't an alpha jerk just really competent.
The story made sense and the suspense element held together really well. It had a lot of them actually working to figure out the mystery so that solving it in the end seemed way more realistic than is sometimes the case in RS books. The action moved along rapidly and kept my interest throughout.
A solid romantic suspense read. The heroine was nice and spunky. She had moments where she might have tipped over into TSTL but the author saved it by not making the stuff she did too dangerous and setting the whole thing up really well that she was determined to save her sister. The hero was hot and was one of those guys who knew how to do what he did and he was good at it. He wasn't an alpha jerk just really competent.
The story made sense and the suspense element held together really well. It had a lot of them actually working to figure out the mystery so that solving it in the end seemed way more realistic than is sometimes the case in RS books. The action moved along rapidly and kept my interest throughout.
December 23, 2014
These are my thoughts while reading:
1.0% above a pair of blue eyes that made him shift in his seat against his growing arousal, and muttering a curse between his teeth.
Okay have to admit I love that, more than anything her eyes are getting to him the most!
9.0% Smooth, not too pushy. I think I like this guy.” “I don’t know what it is, Babs, but there’s something about him.” Her friend just smiled. “Honey, you can say that again.”
Totally! I don't know about you Amy but I'm falling for Johnnie Riggs! Fast! :D
10.0% she wasn’t used to the kind of desire that had hit them both tonight. The kind that struck like lightning, turned into a blazing inferno and flat-out sucked you dry. In another minute, he’d have had her on the floor and been inside her. He still didn’t know how he had managed to hang on to that last shred of control.
Don't know why I was worried about starting this book - it's really great so far!
14.0% Sooner or later, I’m taking you to bed, but it won’t be because you owe me. It’ll be because the time is right and you want me as much as I want you.”
Yep! I'm definitely falling fast for Johnnie! :) And Amy! They are both great so far! :D
16.0% :'( Oh poor Johnnie! :'(
18.0% sip of juice
? Im probably wrong but Im thinking something's not right? Hmm I suppose we'll find out soon enough! :) :)
19.0% Johnnie…” she whispered, and prayed he could hear her as the world went suddenly black.
Shit! I knew it! Thank fuck Johnnie is there - I can't wait to see what he does! :)
25.0% He didn’t give a whit about the naked women gyrating beneath the spotlights. He didn’t get the clenching low in his groin that he felt when he watched Amy dancing as Angel. That he felt just sitting beside her.
I love that :)
28.0% Johnnie broke the kiss. “Jesus!” Breathing hard, he raked a hand through his hair. “If you had any idea how much I want you—” He took her hand, pressed it against the fly of his jeans. Amy’s eyes widened. He was as hard as granite. “Honey, I don’t know how much more of this I can take.”
Okay now I love Johnnie! <3 He is so hot! <3
32.0% dancing now for Johnnie. The faces of the other men faded and disappeared. There was only one man now and with every move, she let him know.
Totally loveee that! The case is really intriguing n Im hoping that these two are finally going to give in to their chemistry soon! <3
33.0% “Johnnie…” Her arms locked around his thick neck. “God, I need you. I need…I need…” “I know what you need.” His heavy erection pressed against her. “Baby, I’m gonna give you exactly what you need.”
This is going to be hot! <3
34.0% Jesus, she was something. Amy or Angel, it didn’t matter. Each was a beautiful, responsive woman and in truth, the two were one and the same. Amy was the only one who didn’t get that. She was part lady, part vixen. It was a heady mix for a man like him.
Totally LOVE that! I hope Amy realizes that she is Angel soon! <3
36.0% “Back off, Rick.” Johnnie eyed him darkly. “This one’s off-limits.”
Haha love Johnnie staking his claim! <3 <3
39.0% Rick leaned back in his chair. He was beginning to think there was a lot more to Rachael Brewer than he had believed.
Hmmm Kat Martin usually has some kind of secondary romance going on too - maybe Rachael and Rick?! (Im hanging on to the hope Rachael is alive just in abit of trouble!) <3
42.0% It was just the job, he told himself. And knew it was a big-ass lie.
At least you know it Johnnie! But what is it going to take for you to admit it?! <3
43.0% He seemed nervous. She couldn’t believe it. He was always so firmly in control.
Awww I love it - a nervous stumbling Johnnie! <3 <3
44.0% He told himself to mind his own business, that he needed to refocus, stay away from the Brewer case. Rick was determined to convince himself.
I'm really liking Rick! Im definitely feeling like this is the secondary romance (please please say that they find Rachael alive - she sounds like a good woman who was doing what she could to follow her dream while helping as many kids as she could!) <3
45.0% Johnnie was on his feet and running.
Oh god! ?? However I have to say I loveee how quick Johnnie moved! <3 Literally as soon as Babs got Angel out he was off and running! <3 <3
46.0% Johnnie sprawled on the mat looking stunned. “I can’t believe it.”
Haha I love love love that image! <3
47.0% For the first time she realized they had just made love on the floor in his gym.
Yes you did and it was hot! (In a love making way not a fucking way :) which is just as good if thats what youre in the mood for :D)
53.0% He was going to Belize. Amy was going with him. How that had happened, he still couldn’t quite figure out.
haha poor Johnnie - I love it! <3
59.0% “I’d offer to help you,” Johnnie said gruffly, “but if I do, we’ll never make it to the water.”
<3 <3 Im really loving these two! This case is also really interesting - I can't wait to get to the bottom of it :)
" He could easily touch the sandy bottom, though Amy was a little too short and had to keep her arms around his neck to stay afloat.
This feels like a scene straight from a movie! :) :) I can just picture it! <3
60.0% A feeling of contentment settled over him he didn’t want to feel.
Oh Johnnie - stop fighting the inevitable! This really seems like a scene from a romance film - I can picture it sooo clearly! I love that! <3
62.0% To the island.
Oh wow?! please please say she's still alive! I cant wait to find out what happens!
69.0% Oh no!
71.0% Clearly they weren’t afraid of the man she had come with. Amy thought of Johnnie in his flak vest, automatic weapon slung over his chest, and black-painted face. Big mistake.
Oh yeah! That's a BIG fucking mistake!
72.0% “Let’s get close enough to find out what they’re doing.”
Oh god - I don't know if I watch too much TV or what but I have a bad bad feeling as to what's going on!
73.0% “Johnnie!” Amy jumped to her feet and bolted toward him, threw her arms around his neck and just hung on. “I knew you’d come. I knew nothing would stop you.” “Nothing but dying, baby.” And then he kissed her, hard and deep, and his heart throbbed painfully, and all the time he was thinking, Man, I am so in love. And I’ve got to be the dumbest SOB on the planet.
Aww <3 Johnnie! Its not dumb its the best thing!
74.0% He was way past the denial stage. “Will do.” He had no idea what to do about it, knew deep down it could never work out. But for now, she was his and he was going to enjoy every minute for as long as it lasted.
Oh Johnnie! You just fight for it that's all you need to do - the rest will work itself out! :D <3
76.0% She looked up, and Amy could see the panic in her face.
:'( :'(
78.0% Awww! I was not expecting that! I love Amy! I love how straight she was - she didnt hide anything just let it all out! <3
80.0% Still, he’d be back. There wasn’t a chance in hell he could stay away.
Awww! They are really great together! I hope we get to see more of them! <3
Dan
Oh god no! I knew it wasnt over not with 20% still to go! :( BUT who the fuck is Dan?!?!
82.0% “I believe you. I don’t know why, but I trust you.” Something passed between them, something Amy could almost feel. Vega squeezed Rachael’s hand. “I won’t let anything happen to you, Rachael. I swear it.” And Amy thought that whatever undercurrents were moving between them, Rick Vega would lay down his life for her sister.
Awww, I wish these two got their own book <3 <3
88.0% Ty eyed him strangely. “Dev said you really liked her. Said his wife liked her, too. Looks to me like you’re in love with her.” Johnnie just shrugged. “Doesn’t matter. It wouldn’t work out. Amy’s smart enough to know that.” “Sometimes smart isn’t all it’s cracked up to be.”
Aww you tell him Ty! <3
91.0% said the guy who was paying him had connections so he didn’t have to think about that.”
Hmmmm I have a hunch but I'm not sure if Im right or not??
91.0% Oh wow! I think I was right - but I was not expecting Dan to be that?!?
94.0% :O Oh wow! Im glad Im alone coz I literally gasped out loud! <3
95.0% “Not yet. I’m not hurrying, baby…not tonight.” And the gruffness in his voice told her why.
Awww these two are breaking my heart! :'( :'(
96.0% Her mother reached over and caught her hand. “That’s what I thought, too…in the beginning. But after seeing the two of you together, after knowing what the two of you have faced together, I don’t see it that way anymore.”
Yessss! You tell her Hannah - show her the truth! <3
97.0% No, but your happiness is my business. I love you, Johnnie. You’re the son I never had and I know you better than you know yourself. Why are you so afraid to take a chance?”
Go Ellie! Yay Im loving how everyone can see the truth except Amy and Johnnie! <3
98.0% Her eyes filled. “Ask me to stay,” she blurted out, surely the wrong thing to say but she couldn’t keep the words locked up inside.
Awwwww this scene! <3 <3
100.0% Great story - I really loved it! I want to give it 5 stars but I dont think I can :( I think Im being abit too generous lately haha and Im also changing the last one to a 4 - I do really enjoy this series but Im always nervous to start the next book and it ends up taking me a few days to read (even if I have quite alot of reading time) instead of consuming me. Dont get me wrong I love it while Im reading but I can get distracted by something else (not for a little bit but for hours) so Im giving this 4 - I hope that makes sense :)
1.0% above a pair of blue eyes that made him shift in his seat against his growing arousal, and muttering a curse between his teeth.
Okay have to admit I love that, more than anything her eyes are getting to him the most!
9.0% Smooth, not too pushy. I think I like this guy.” “I don’t know what it is, Babs, but there’s something about him.” Her friend just smiled. “Honey, you can say that again.”
Totally! I don't know about you Amy but I'm falling for Johnnie Riggs! Fast! :D
10.0% she wasn’t used to the kind of desire that had hit them both tonight. The kind that struck like lightning, turned into a blazing inferno and flat-out sucked you dry. In another minute, he’d have had her on the floor and been inside her. He still didn’t know how he had managed to hang on to that last shred of control.
Don't know why I was worried about starting this book - it's really great so far!
14.0% Sooner or later, I’m taking you to bed, but it won’t be because you owe me. It’ll be because the time is right and you want me as much as I want you.”
Yep! I'm definitely falling fast for Johnnie! :) And Amy! They are both great so far! :D
16.0% :'( Oh poor Johnnie! :'(
18.0% sip of juice
? Im probably wrong but Im thinking something's not right? Hmm I suppose we'll find out soon enough! :) :)
19.0% Johnnie…” she whispered, and prayed he could hear her as the world went suddenly black.
Shit! I knew it! Thank fuck Johnnie is there - I can't wait to see what he does! :)
25.0% He didn’t give a whit about the naked women gyrating beneath the spotlights. He didn’t get the clenching low in his groin that he felt when he watched Amy dancing as Angel. That he felt just sitting beside her.
I love that :)
28.0% Johnnie broke the kiss. “Jesus!” Breathing hard, he raked a hand through his hair. “If you had any idea how much I want you—” He took her hand, pressed it against the fly of his jeans. Amy’s eyes widened. He was as hard as granite. “Honey, I don’t know how much more of this I can take.”
Okay now I love Johnnie! <3 He is so hot! <3
32.0% dancing now for Johnnie. The faces of the other men faded and disappeared. There was only one man now and with every move, she let him know.
Totally loveee that! The case is really intriguing n Im hoping that these two are finally going to give in to their chemistry soon! <3
33.0% “Johnnie…” Her arms locked around his thick neck. “God, I need you. I need…I need…” “I know what you need.” His heavy erection pressed against her. “Baby, I’m gonna give you exactly what you need.”
This is going to be hot! <3
34.0% Jesus, she was something. Amy or Angel, it didn’t matter. Each was a beautiful, responsive woman and in truth, the two were one and the same. Amy was the only one who didn’t get that. She was part lady, part vixen. It was a heady mix for a man like him.
Totally LOVE that! I hope Amy realizes that she is Angel soon! <3
36.0% “Back off, Rick.” Johnnie eyed him darkly. “This one’s off-limits.”
Haha love Johnnie staking his claim! <3 <3
39.0% Rick leaned back in his chair. He was beginning to think there was a lot more to Rachael Brewer than he had believed.
Hmmm Kat Martin usually has some kind of secondary romance going on too - maybe Rachael and Rick?! (Im hanging on to the hope Rachael is alive just in abit of trouble!) <3
42.0% It was just the job, he told himself. And knew it was a big-ass lie.
At least you know it Johnnie! But what is it going to take for you to admit it?! <3
43.0% He seemed nervous. She couldn’t believe it. He was always so firmly in control.
Awww I love it - a nervous stumbling Johnnie! <3 <3
44.0% He told himself to mind his own business, that he needed to refocus, stay away from the Brewer case. Rick was determined to convince himself.
I'm really liking Rick! Im definitely feeling like this is the secondary romance (please please say that they find Rachael alive - she sounds like a good woman who was doing what she could to follow her dream while helping as many kids as she could!) <3
45.0% Johnnie was on his feet and running.
Oh god! ?? However I have to say I loveee how quick Johnnie moved! <3 Literally as soon as Babs got Angel out he was off and running! <3 <3
46.0% Johnnie sprawled on the mat looking stunned. “I can’t believe it.”
Haha I love love love that image! <3
47.0% For the first time she realized they had just made love on the floor in his gym.
Yes you did and it was hot! (In a love making way not a fucking way :) which is just as good if thats what youre in the mood for :D)
53.0% He was going to Belize. Amy was going with him. How that had happened, he still couldn’t quite figure out.
haha poor Johnnie - I love it! <3
59.0% “I’d offer to help you,” Johnnie said gruffly, “but if I do, we’ll never make it to the water.”
<3 <3 Im really loving these two! This case is also really interesting - I can't wait to get to the bottom of it :)
" He could easily touch the sandy bottom, though Amy was a little too short and had to keep her arms around his neck to stay afloat.
This feels like a scene straight from a movie! :) :) I can just picture it! <3
60.0% A feeling of contentment settled over him he didn’t want to feel.
Oh Johnnie - stop fighting the inevitable! This really seems like a scene from a romance film - I can picture it sooo clearly! I love that! <3
62.0% To the island.
Oh wow?! please please say she's still alive! I cant wait to find out what happens!
69.0% Oh no!
71.0% Clearly they weren’t afraid of the man she had come with. Amy thought of Johnnie in his flak vest, automatic weapon slung over his chest, and black-painted face. Big mistake.
Oh yeah! That's a BIG fucking mistake!
72.0% “Let’s get close enough to find out what they’re doing.”
Oh god - I don't know if I watch too much TV or what but I have a bad bad feeling as to what's going on!
73.0% “Johnnie!” Amy jumped to her feet and bolted toward him, threw her arms around his neck and just hung on. “I knew you’d come. I knew nothing would stop you.” “Nothing but dying, baby.” And then he kissed her, hard and deep, and his heart throbbed painfully, and all the time he was thinking, Man, I am so in love. And I’ve got to be the dumbest SOB on the planet.
Aww <3 Johnnie! Its not dumb its the best thing!
74.0% He was way past the denial stage. “Will do.” He had no idea what to do about it, knew deep down it could never work out. But for now, she was his and he was going to enjoy every minute for as long as it lasted.
Oh Johnnie! You just fight for it that's all you need to do - the rest will work itself out! :D <3
76.0% She looked up, and Amy could see the panic in her face.
:'( :'(
78.0% Awww! I was not expecting that! I love Amy! I love how straight she was - she didnt hide anything just let it all out! <3
80.0% Still, he’d be back. There wasn’t a chance in hell he could stay away.
Awww! They are really great together! I hope we get to see more of them! <3
Dan
Oh god no! I knew it wasnt over not with 20% still to go! :( BUT who the fuck is Dan?!?!
82.0% “I believe you. I don’t know why, but I trust you.” Something passed between them, something Amy could almost feel. Vega squeezed Rachael’s hand. “I won’t let anything happen to you, Rachael. I swear it.” And Amy thought that whatever undercurrents were moving between them, Rick Vega would lay down his life for her sister.
Awww, I wish these two got their own book <3 <3
88.0% Ty eyed him strangely. “Dev said you really liked her. Said his wife liked her, too. Looks to me like you’re in love with her.” Johnnie just shrugged. “Doesn’t matter. It wouldn’t work out. Amy’s smart enough to know that.” “Sometimes smart isn’t all it’s cracked up to be.”
Aww you tell him Ty! <3
91.0% said the guy who was paying him had connections so he didn’t have to think about that.”
Hmmmm I have a hunch but I'm not sure if Im right or not??
91.0% Oh wow! I think I was right - but I was not expecting Dan to be that?!?
94.0% :O Oh wow! Im glad Im alone coz I literally gasped out loud! <3
95.0% “Not yet. I’m not hurrying, baby…not tonight.” And the gruffness in his voice told her why.
Awww these two are breaking my heart! :'( :'(
96.0% Her mother reached over and caught her hand. “That’s what I thought, too…in the beginning. But after seeing the two of you together, after knowing what the two of you have faced together, I don’t see it that way anymore.”
Yessss! You tell her Hannah - show her the truth! <3
97.0% No, but your happiness is my business. I love you, Johnnie. You’re the son I never had and I know you better than you know yourself. Why are you so afraid to take a chance?”
Go Ellie! Yay Im loving how everyone can see the truth except Amy and Johnnie! <3
98.0% Her eyes filled. “Ask me to stay,” she blurted out, surely the wrong thing to say but she couldn’t keep the words locked up inside.
Awwwww this scene! <3 <3
100.0% Great story - I really loved it! I want to give it 5 stars but I dont think I can :( I think Im being abit too generous lately haha and Im also changing the last one to a 4 - I do really enjoy this series but Im always nervous to start the next book and it ends up taking me a few days to read (even if I have quite alot of reading time) instead of consuming me. Dont get me wrong I love it while Im reading but I can get distracted by something else (not for a little bit but for hours) so Im giving this 4 - I hope that makes sense :)
February 13, 2018
I finally was able to get a hold of the rest of this series. This was Johnnie Rigg's story and it was a good one. I liked Johnnie from the beginning. He's handsome, ripped, rich and has a great sense of humor. He finds his perfect match in Amy aka Angel!
July 27, 2014
Good story. Amy is a kindergarten teacher masquerading as an exotic dancer in an attempt to find her missing sister. Johnnie is a PI who has come to the club to catch a bail jumper. He notices her right away and can't get her out of his mind. When he meets her he quickly realizes that she is not what she appears to be and is further fascinated. Amy has noticed him also, and when she finds out what he does is determined to ask him to help her find her sister.
I loved the two of them together. Johnnie is an ex-Ranger who is very good at what he does. He takes on Amy's case because of his fascination with her, but quickly gets invested in truly finding out what happened. He is very much the protective, alpha kind of guy who ends up at a loss at how to deal with Amy. He can't get her out of his mind, even though he avoids getting emotionally close to any woman. He has lost people he cared for, and done things that haunt him, so feels that he is better off alone. He tries very hard to keep Amy's involvement in the case to a minimum, but can't deny her when she insists on being involved every step of the way.
Amy feels pretty overwhelmed by what she is doing, but she is determined to find her sister. Exotic dancing is something that is way out of her experience, but the longer she does it the more comfortable she is. When she first sees Johnnie she is attracted to him, but is very wary because of who and what he is. She really wants his help in finding her sister and asks him anyway. I loved the way that she refused to be sidelined in the investigation and made sure that Johnnie kept her involved. There were times she took some risks that could have turned out badly, but her own strengths saved her. Her attraction to Johnnie quickly turns to stronger feelings, but she sees no future in it. She knows he won't/can't commit and she'll be going back to teaching at the end of the summer anyway.
The romance between Johnnie and Amy is hard fought. Johnnie sees both the sweet and innocent Amy and the sexy Angel. He really wants her and finds that his feelings for her are more than he's ever felt for anyone before. He's convinced he's not good enough for her and resists thinking about a future with her. He doesn't see how well suited she is for him, with her ability to stand up for herself. I loved seeing the way that he was frequently confused by the fact that she so easily got her way. Amy falls hard for Johnnie, but doesn't see how her life can mesh with his. She spends a lot of time thinking about what it will be like to have to go back home when this is done. I loved seeing her insist on taking an active part in the investigation, not just sitting back and waiting for Johnnie to do the work. I really loved the scene where she showed him she could defend herself. I loved how she blew away some of his preconceived ideas. I liked the way that she had the courage to tell Johnnie how she felt. There was awhile when I wondered just how long it would take for them to realize that they could be together.
The suspense part of the story kept me intrigued. There were so many threads that had to come together before the whole picture was revealed. There were some villains that were clear from the beginning, but there were a couple that I never saw coming. I really enjoyed the appearances of characters from previous books and their involvement in helping Johnnie. The resolution of Rachael's disappearance didn't wait until the end, but there was more to the story after she was found which made a nice change.
I loved the two of them together. Johnnie is an ex-Ranger who is very good at what he does. He takes on Amy's case because of his fascination with her, but quickly gets invested in truly finding out what happened. He is very much the protective, alpha kind of guy who ends up at a loss at how to deal with Amy. He can't get her out of his mind, even though he avoids getting emotionally close to any woman. He has lost people he cared for, and done things that haunt him, so feels that he is better off alone. He tries very hard to keep Amy's involvement in the case to a minimum, but can't deny her when she insists on being involved every step of the way.
Amy feels pretty overwhelmed by what she is doing, but she is determined to find her sister. Exotic dancing is something that is way out of her experience, but the longer she does it the more comfortable she is. When she first sees Johnnie she is attracted to him, but is very wary because of who and what he is. She really wants his help in finding her sister and asks him anyway. I loved the way that she refused to be sidelined in the investigation and made sure that Johnnie kept her involved. There were times she took some risks that could have turned out badly, but her own strengths saved her. Her attraction to Johnnie quickly turns to stronger feelings, but she sees no future in it. She knows he won't/can't commit and she'll be going back to teaching at the end of the summer anyway.
The romance between Johnnie and Amy is hard fought. Johnnie sees both the sweet and innocent Amy and the sexy Angel. He really wants her and finds that his feelings for her are more than he's ever felt for anyone before. He's convinced he's not good enough for her and resists thinking about a future with her. He doesn't see how well suited she is for him, with her ability to stand up for herself. I loved seeing the way that he was frequently confused by the fact that she so easily got her way. Amy falls hard for Johnnie, but doesn't see how her life can mesh with his. She spends a lot of time thinking about what it will be like to have to go back home when this is done. I loved seeing her insist on taking an active part in the investigation, not just sitting back and waiting for Johnnie to do the work. I really loved the scene where she showed him she could defend herself. I loved how she blew away some of his preconceived ideas. I liked the way that she had the courage to tell Johnnie how she felt. There was awhile when I wondered just how long it would take for them to realize that they could be together.
The suspense part of the story kept me intrigued. There were so many threads that had to come together before the whole picture was revealed. There were some villains that were clear from the beginning, but there were a couple that I never saw coming. I really enjoyed the appearances of characters from previous books and their involvement in helping Johnnie. The resolution of Rachael's disappearance didn't wait until the end, but there was more to the story after she was found which made a nice change.
July 1, 2012
Rating: 3.5/5
Pretty good book. I didn't enjoy it quite as much as the first book in this 2nd Raines trilogy, but it was still a good read.
Series Note:
Second book of the second "Raines of Wind Canyon" trilogy. You don't have to have read the first trilogy first, and really, I don't think you have to have read the first book of this second trilogy first either. It stand pretty well on its own.
Summary:
When Amy Brewer's sister goes missing in Los Angeles, she knows she'll do anything to find out what happened. So she leaves her home and travels to L.A. where she assumes the life of a stripper, working at the club her sister worked at in order to get answers. And when she catches the eye of P.I. Johnnie Riggs, she'll use him for help, too.
Neither counted out the attraction that develops between them and Johnnie knows he has to help Amy find out what happened to her sister. They had no idea how far the conspiracy went or how much danger they'd end up in. And as they continue to dig deeper, both are stunned at how deep their feelings for each other become.
Review:
I really don't have a whole lot to say about this book. It was a pretty good read but there's not a whole lot to talk about. Nothing about the story was absolutely wonderful but there was also nothing really terrible to critique.
The premise of the story is interesting - prim school teacher sister goes undercover as a stripper to find out what happened to her sister - but it's also not the most original plot. It's something I've read before in some form or another. It was done pretty well, though, if a bit idealistic because everyone is so nice and well-meaning.
I liked the characters for the most part but nothing about either of them particularly stood out as memorable. I was bothered a bit by Amy's TSTL tendencies - which was an issue with the last book as well. You can really drag a story down with a TSTL heroine. Amy was that bad, but still made some dumb moves.
And the romance was solid but not exceptional. Some nice chemistry but everything was pretty predictable. I've read better and I've read worse. I really liked the side-story that revolved around Amy's sister and another supporting character. It was very sweet and I wish we'd gotten more of that in the book. I want to know what happened with them.
Which makes the book on the whole solidly in the average, slightly above average range. Good but not great but also not bad. Worth reading but not anything I'd say one needed to run right out and buy and read.
Pretty good book. I didn't enjoy it quite as much as the first book in this 2nd Raines trilogy, but it was still a good read.
Series Note:
Second book of the second "Raines of Wind Canyon" trilogy. You don't have to have read the first trilogy first, and really, I don't think you have to have read the first book of this second trilogy first either. It stand pretty well on its own.
Summary:
When Amy Brewer's sister goes missing in Los Angeles, she knows she'll do anything to find out what happened. So she leaves her home and travels to L.A. where she assumes the life of a stripper, working at the club her sister worked at in order to get answers. And when she catches the eye of P.I. Johnnie Riggs, she'll use him for help, too.
Neither counted out the attraction that develops between them and Johnnie knows he has to help Amy find out what happened to her sister. They had no idea how far the conspiracy went or how much danger they'd end up in. And as they continue to dig deeper, both are stunned at how deep their feelings for each other become.
Review:
I really don't have a whole lot to say about this book. It was a pretty good read but there's not a whole lot to talk about. Nothing about the story was absolutely wonderful but there was also nothing really terrible to critique.
The premise of the story is interesting - prim school teacher sister goes undercover as a stripper to find out what happened to her sister - but it's also not the most original plot. It's something I've read before in some form or another. It was done pretty well, though, if a bit idealistic because everyone is so nice and well-meaning.
I liked the characters for the most part but nothing about either of them particularly stood out as memorable. I was bothered a bit by Amy's TSTL tendencies - which was an issue with the last book as well. You can really drag a story down with a TSTL heroine. Amy was that bad, but still made some dumb moves.
And the romance was solid but not exceptional. Some nice chemistry but everything was pretty predictable. I've read better and I've read worse. I really liked the side-story that revolved around Amy's sister and another supporting character. It was very sweet and I wish we'd gotten more of that in the book. I want to know what happened with them.
Which makes the book on the whole solidly in the average, slightly above average range. Good but not great but also not bad. Worth reading but not anything I'd say one needed to run right out and buy and read.
May 2, 2016
3.5 stars
April 28, 2015
Johnnie Riggs is a former army ranger with his P.I. license. He spends most of his time in bars and clubs in Los Angeles, digging up information for clients that can afford him. Johnnie also does the occasional recovery job and has made his way to the Kitty Cat Club strip club to collect a skip. This being his second night, he has waited in a dark corner on the lookout for his target. John has a hard time keeping his eyes off the stage when Angel Fontaine steps on to it and preforms, he is entranced by her seductive moves and Johnnie wants nothing more than to explore this intense desire for her, but all he sees is there is more to her and he wants to uncover her secrets. On the stage, Amy Brewer becomes Angel Fontaine. She's immediately aware of Johnnies eyes on her and is drawn to him as she struggles with a strong reaction that she has never felt before. Amy came to L.A. to look for her sister who had disappeared two months ago. Using the cover of the strip club where her sister last worked, she's hoping she can ask questions and find answers to her sisters whereabouts. Not getting any cooperation form the detective assigned to the case, she decides to approach Johnnie and ask for his help, since she has heard talk of who he is and what he does. Neither are prepared for the instant sizzling attraction that has them anxious to give in to.
I want to point out first, that this is the first book that I have picked up and read in this series. I did get an introduction to some of the previous characters of past books, which has cemented me even more to devouring this entire series. I didn't have any problem following the storyline and believe these books can be read as stand alones, but will say since some past characters were introduced, I will be going back to the beginning and work my way forward
I really enjoyed this book that was filled with suspense, romance and a little bit of a secondary romance that was slow to build but enjoyed seeing it nonetheless. Kat Martin's writing kept me turning the pages till early morning. John and Amy work together to find her missing sister and they find themselves in danger with the drug cartel and dealing with corruption. Johnnies character is very alpha, a bit of a loner and not able to see himself settling down. In walks Amy and he is unprepared to the intense feelings he is dealing with. John doesn't want to admit what is going on with them but will lay his life on the line for her and will do what it takes to find her sister. Amy on the other hand is reserved and somewhat shy until she comes to L.A. and discovers a whole knew side to herself she didn't know existed. She really comes into her own when she's standing side by side with Johnnie. Their attraction was instant and it was great to sit back and watch these two come closer together. I at first thought Johnny was a little cocky and crude when they first met, but I realized soon after he had a sweet side. John wasn't a settle down kind of guy and it was endearing that he kept catching himself thinking of her in long term. To John, women in his life either left him or died. When everything was said and done and they discovered what happened to her sister, he was preparing himself for Amy to leave. Just as Amy realized he would never fit into her world and she could never ask him to change. I could see their feelings change and grow deeper with each touch and knew they belonged together. Their intimate scene on the beach in Belize definitely had me sighing and crossing my fingers for these to come out of this adventure unscathed. These two belonged together and it really was an incredible journey to read about. I was taken on some great twists and turns and even enjoyed the scenic description of Belize. I enjoyed the action scenes and though I had an idea early on who the bad guy was, Kat Martin did a great job of keeping me guessing on the full story of Rachael's; Amy's sister; disappearance. Just when I thought it was all wrapped up, I found out there was still more to the story. I couldn't have put this book down if I wanted to and was literally holding on, waiting to see who had put this all in motion. One thing that did bother me was there was another girl on the island and she was briefly mentioned but I never heard if she was taken off the island with them or was left there, just something that kept me wondering. Overall, I really enjoyed this book and will follow whatever else Kat Martin puts out
I want to point out first, that this is the first book that I have picked up and read in this series. I did get an introduction to some of the previous characters of past books, which has cemented me even more to devouring this entire series. I didn't have any problem following the storyline and believe these books can be read as stand alones, but will say since some past characters were introduced, I will be going back to the beginning and work my way forward
I really enjoyed this book that was filled with suspense, romance and a little bit of a secondary romance that was slow to build but enjoyed seeing it nonetheless. Kat Martin's writing kept me turning the pages till early morning. John and Amy work together to find her missing sister and they find themselves in danger with the drug cartel and dealing with corruption. Johnnies character is very alpha, a bit of a loner and not able to see himself settling down. In walks Amy and he is unprepared to the intense feelings he is dealing with. John doesn't want to admit what is going on with them but will lay his life on the line for her and will do what it takes to find her sister. Amy on the other hand is reserved and somewhat shy until she comes to L.A. and discovers a whole knew side to herself she didn't know existed. She really comes into her own when she's standing side by side with Johnnie. Their attraction was instant and it was great to sit back and watch these two come closer together. I at first thought Johnny was a little cocky and crude when they first met, but I realized soon after he had a sweet side. John wasn't a settle down kind of guy and it was endearing that he kept catching himself thinking of her in long term. To John, women in his life either left him or died. When everything was said and done and they discovered what happened to her sister, he was preparing himself for Amy to leave. Just as Amy realized he would never fit into her world and she could never ask him to change. I could see their feelings change and grow deeper with each touch and knew they belonged together. Their intimate scene on the beach in Belize definitely had me sighing and crossing my fingers for these to come out of this adventure unscathed. These two belonged together and it really was an incredible journey to read about. I was taken on some great twists and turns and even enjoyed the scenic description of Belize. I enjoyed the action scenes and though I had an idea early on who the bad guy was, Kat Martin did a great job of keeping me guessing on the full story of Rachael's; Amy's sister; disappearance. Just when I thought it was all wrapped up, I found out there was still more to the story. I couldn't have put this book down if I wanted to and was literally holding on, waiting to see who had put this all in motion. One thing that did bother me was there was another girl on the island and she was briefly mentioned but I never heard if she was taken off the island with them or was left there, just something that kept me wondering. Overall, I really enjoyed this book and will follow whatever else Kat Martin puts out
September 3, 2021
Amy is a kindergarten teacher in Michigan who travels to LA for the summer to try to find her sister who disappeared a few weeks ago. Amy takes her sister’s old job as a stripper to help retrace her steps and find clues to her disappearance. At the strip club she meets Johnie. He’s a PI who agrees to help her. It was an entertaining story with some annoying issues but overall was a diverting read with a story within a story, which I’m catching on here, is a Kat Martin thing for this series. I read the ebook. 3.5/5
March 29, 2012
Former Army Ranger and now Private Investigator, Johnnie Riggs is hanging out in a strip joint looking for a crook who's skipped his bail. But his attention is very distracted by a sexy gal who's an exotic pole dancer. Finally, he sees his prey and grabs him, but Johnnie returns to ask the dancer out. This is the first in a series of novels called The Raines of Wind Canyon, and it strikes a new pose for Kat Martin!
Angel is not the loose woman she appears to be; apparently, she's (Amy) come to the big city, Los Angeles, from Michigan to find her missing sister. She'd love to ask Johnnie to help her after she finds out who he really is, but she's sure she can never afford what she believes is probably an exorbitant fee. The sparks are definitely flying between these two and at first it takes all their inner strength not to fall into bed immediately. The story progresses when Johnnie at first is annoyed that she wants his help instead of just providing some action, but he just can't resist being with her!
Both the romance and the criminal side of the story rapidly progress with the search for Rachel, a beautiful woman as well who came to the city to become a star but got caught up with a creep making huge promises but with other nefarious ideas in mind for employing her. When Johnnie and Amy set out on their mission, they have no idea how their search will threaten their own lives and their passion as well!!!
Kat Martin has done a fine job again with this latest romance/crime thriller novel. The characters in this new first novel in a series are edgier in one sense, which gives them an air of unpredictability that adds to the suspense of the story. Trusting and love are sometimes part of a perilous journey, and Johnnie and Amy bring the form to the top of the game! Very nicely done, Kat Martin!
Angel is not the loose woman she appears to be; apparently, she's (Amy) come to the big city, Los Angeles, from Michigan to find her missing sister. She'd love to ask Johnnie to help her after she finds out who he really is, but she's sure she can never afford what she believes is probably an exorbitant fee. The sparks are definitely flying between these two and at first it takes all their inner strength not to fall into bed immediately. The story progresses when Johnnie at first is annoyed that she wants his help instead of just providing some action, but he just can't resist being with her!
Both the romance and the criminal side of the story rapidly progress with the search for Rachel, a beautiful woman as well who came to the city to become a star but got caught up with a creep making huge promises but with other nefarious ideas in mind for employing her. When Johnnie and Amy set out on their mission, they have no idea how their search will threaten their own lives and their passion as well!!!
Kat Martin has done a fine job again with this latest romance/crime thriller novel. The characters in this new first novel in a series are edgier in one sense, which gives them an air of unpredictability that adds to the suspense of the story. Trusting and love are sometimes part of a perilous journey, and Johnnie and Amy bring the form to the top of the game! Very nicely done, Kat Martin!
February 21, 2012
AGAINST THE NIGHT by Kat Martin
Book #5 in The Raines of Wind Canyon Series
Can I love you enough to make you stay?
John Riggs is a former ranger, full-time PI, and all around do not mess with me tough guy. So why is Amy Brewer, this slip of a woman, an exotic dancer no less making his blood boil to a point of combustion. There is something beneath the exterior when you look really deep and see that her innocence is genuine. When their paths cross and she hires him to find her missing sister – Johnnie wonders if this is a step into heaven with an Angel or eternal damnation.
Amy came to find her sister and stepping into her sister’s shoes as a dancer was step one. Taking a leap of faith to hire a PI to help her was a huge risk but one she knew had to happen. What Amy never foresaw was the terror she would face on land and sea in the search to find and free her sister. The scariest moments are when she is alone with Johnnie, laying in the warmth of his arms, knowing this cannot last but wishing so much that it could. She will take a bullet for Johnnie who is doing everything he can to find her sister and using resources she never knew existed. However, when everything is concluded will she run back to Michigan or stay with Johnnie and fulfill a new kind of adventure?
Kat Martin cannot stop writing incredible books in this series. Every book stands out as spectacular with character depth, suspense, and enough romance to warm any night. Ms. Martin proves that a series can go on and remain fresh and intriguing and proves it with this latest book.
Book #5 in The Raines of Wind Canyon Series
Can I love you enough to make you stay?
John Riggs is a former ranger, full-time PI, and all around do not mess with me tough guy. So why is Amy Brewer, this slip of a woman, an exotic dancer no less making his blood boil to a point of combustion. There is something beneath the exterior when you look really deep and see that her innocence is genuine. When their paths cross and she hires him to find her missing sister – Johnnie wonders if this is a step into heaven with an Angel or eternal damnation.
Amy came to find her sister and stepping into her sister’s shoes as a dancer was step one. Taking a leap of faith to hire a PI to help her was a huge risk but one she knew had to happen. What Amy never foresaw was the terror she would face on land and sea in the search to find and free her sister. The scariest moments are when she is alone with Johnnie, laying in the warmth of his arms, knowing this cannot last but wishing so much that it could. She will take a bullet for Johnnie who is doing everything he can to find her sister and using resources she never knew existed. However, when everything is concluded will she run back to Michigan or stay with Johnnie and fulfill a new kind of adventure?
Kat Martin cannot stop writing incredible books in this series. Every book stands out as spectacular with character depth, suspense, and enough romance to warm any night. Ms. Martin proves that a series can go on and remain fresh and intriguing and proves it with this latest book.
March 1, 2012
Against the Night by kat Martin
Johnnie does PI work for several companies also the police department as his sister was killed in action.
Amy, a kindergarten teacher, off for the summer, came to town to find her sister who had disappeared a few weeks earlier. She is posing as an exotic
dancer at the same place her sister worked at. She rooms with the same person also as she follows leads as to what could've happened to her sister. Johnny agrees to help her and she finds herself in harms way several times and he has to come to her rescue.
He, being an ex-Ranger is also very good friends with Trace Rawlins-in previous books in this series.
Hopefully Sol, his computer geek friend will find some information about Rachel's disappearance.
Together they start to question those who knew her sister to get some more leads to follow in hopes they can find her alive. There is some hot steamy sex in this book that blends in with what's going on. Love the places this book/series takes you to, it's a whole other world and I've never been and it's good to see things through their eyes. Lot of action that goes along with finding her sister.
Even though I did miss one book in this series when othes are introduced you are given information to bring you up to date if you knew them from before. Smooth transition.
A lot of things happen to bring them back to the States and Amy's mom comes to spend some time in California also to help out. Amy knows at the end of summer she has to go back to Michigan to teach, although she is in love with Johnnie. She doesn't want to alter his life.
Johnnie does PI work for several companies also the police department as his sister was killed in action.
Amy, a kindergarten teacher, off for the summer, came to town to find her sister who had disappeared a few weeks earlier. She is posing as an exotic
dancer at the same place her sister worked at. She rooms with the same person also as she follows leads as to what could've happened to her sister. Johnny agrees to help her and she finds herself in harms way several times and he has to come to her rescue.
He, being an ex-Ranger is also very good friends with Trace Rawlins-in previous books in this series.
Hopefully Sol, his computer geek friend will find some information about Rachel's disappearance.
Together they start to question those who knew her sister to get some more leads to follow in hopes they can find her alive. There is some hot steamy sex in this book that blends in with what's going on. Love the places this book/series takes you to, it's a whole other world and I've never been and it's good to see things through their eyes. Lot of action that goes along with finding her sister.
Even though I did miss one book in this series when othes are introduced you are given information to bring you up to date if you knew them from before. Smooth transition.
A lot of things happen to bring them back to the States and Amy's mom comes to spend some time in California also to help out. Amy knows at the end of summer she has to go back to Michigan to teach, although she is in love with Johnnie. She doesn't want to alter his life.
March 19, 2012
Browsing through a K-Mart, I stumbled upon this book for a good price. I hadn't read any Kat Martin before, but the blurb sounded interesting, so I thought I would give it a go.
I was so pleased that I did. I really enjoyed this story. Johnnie was a great hero. The pace was fast enough, and the steam factor was good.
There was plenty of interesting secondary characters, and I have since learned that they are from previous books, which I will now being finding for my tbr. I doubt they will sit there for long.
The only problem I had was not something the author could have prevented. On the back of my copy the names were wrong, and it took me a while to understand who I was reading about was actually the heroine, and not some other women.
All in all a terrific read that I couldn't put down, and yet another author with books that I can't wait to read.
I was so pleased that I did. I really enjoyed this story. Johnnie was a great hero. The pace was fast enough, and the steam factor was good.
There was plenty of interesting secondary characters, and I have since learned that they are from previous books, which I will now being finding for my tbr. I doubt they will sit there for long.
The only problem I had was not something the author could have prevented. On the back of my copy the names were wrong, and it took me a while to understand who I was reading about was actually the heroine, and not some other women.
All in all a terrific read that I couldn't put down, and yet another author with books that I can't wait to read.
October 24, 2014
Really, really good! Hot romance, adventure and suspense - this book has it all and is fantastic. These books just get better and better. I love it when I can't figure out the bad guy and this one keeps you guessing right up to the very end. In addition to the great mystery, the romance is scorching hot right from the first page.
Amy is a kindergarten teacher from MI whose sister is missing in Los Angeles. She takes Rachael's old job at a strip club in Hollywood to try and find her, as the police appear not to give a d--- about a missing stripper. Johnnie is former a Army Ranger and a private investigator working a case when he ends up in the Kitty Cat Club and finds himself is instant lust with exotic dancer Angel, aka Amy. The feeling is mutual and the two find themselves in some really dangerous situations trying to find Rachael.
Amy is a kindergarten teacher from MI whose sister is missing in Los Angeles. She takes Rachael's old job at a strip club in Hollywood to try and find her, as the police appear not to give a d--- about a missing stripper. Johnnie is former a Army Ranger and a private investigator working a case when he ends up in the Kitty Cat Club and finds himself is instant lust with exotic dancer Angel, aka Amy. The feeling is mutual and the two find themselves in some really dangerous situations trying to find Rachael.
April 10, 2015
I have read all the books before this one but in all honesty all of them can be read as stand alone. I could not put this down it was exciting the story swept me away, Amy and John were hot and heavy and so likable. I didn't see the end coming which was really nice, I do like it when you get thrown a curve ball at the end. I am looking forward to reading the next one, it is on my kobo waiting.
July 24, 2018
First of all I almost feel like this author must be using a pen-name or something because it is absolutely mind boggling that a woman would right this. It is INCREDIBLY misogynistic throughout. There are also tones of racism, at times not even so subtle.
The worst part about this is that, for a book that is supposed to be a romance novel, there is a disturbing amount of rape, rape conversations, and rape themes. Fine, some people may be into that, but if that is going to appear 8+ times throughout a book like this especially, it should be explicitly disclosed at the beginning. Following nearly every rape scene or discussion, the author then went and tried to sell some hot and steamy scene. It was incredibly uncomfortable.
The only reason this is even two stars is that the mystery component, although simplistic and pretty poorly written, was better than expected from this type of book.
Seriously, be warned before going into this, if you are NOT driven by rape fantasies and women being portrayed as so completely inferior to men, perhaps you may want to consider looking into a different book.
The worst part about this is that, for a book that is supposed to be a romance novel, there is a disturbing amount of rape, rape conversations, and rape themes. Fine, some people may be into that, but if that is going to appear 8+ times throughout a book like this especially, it should be explicitly disclosed at the beginning. Following nearly every rape scene or discussion, the author then went and tried to sell some hot and steamy scene. It was incredibly uncomfortable.
The only reason this is even two stars is that the mystery component, although simplistic and pretty poorly written, was better than expected from this type of book.
Seriously, be warned before going into this, if you are NOT driven by rape fantasies and women being portrayed as so completely inferior to men, perhaps you may want to consider looking into a different book.
September 20, 2021
Great detective story.
Amy leaves her kindergarten job to take her sister’s stripper job as a way of looking for clues to her disappearance. The job leads her to make a connection with the sexy detective Johnnie Riggs. The mystery of her sister’s disappearance is well developed and introduces lots of Johnnie’s military friends. The list of suspects leads to some dangerous characters but ultimately takes them to Belize on a search mission.
The story and characters were well developed. I loved the heat between Amy and Johnnie even though it was a slow burn for a while.
Amy leaves her kindergarten job to take her sister’s stripper job as a way of looking for clues to her disappearance. The job leads her to make a connection with the sexy detective Johnnie Riggs. The mystery of her sister’s disappearance is well developed and introduces lots of Johnnie’s military friends. The list of suspects leads to some dangerous characters but ultimately takes them to Belize on a search mission.
The story and characters were well developed. I loved the heat between Amy and Johnnie even though it was a slow burn for a while.
March 30, 2018
The characters didn't seem as real as some of the other books in the series. I also thought there were a little too much unrealistic cooincindences. I also found myself annoyed by the shameless plugs for previous stories. Even having read the previous 4 books, I was taken out of the story by the references to random characters and their stories.
I did like it enough to read more of the series, just maybe not this week.
I did like it enough to read more of the series, just maybe not this week.
April 24, 2018
This book had me on the edge of my seat. An undercover stripper, who wouldn't love that?! The heat between Amy and Johnnie was insane. One of the things I've come to love about this series is how the females discover their sexuality when they find the right man. It gives me hope!
Another thing I love is how the story doesn't focus solely on the hero and heroine. Kat Martin makes the other characters just as interesting.
Another thing I love is how the story doesn't focus solely on the hero and heroine. Kat Martin makes the other characters just as interesting.
December 23, 2018
These books are highly engaging; even though I don't always love the "meet cute" the author uses, the characters are pretty good and the plots are also quite good. In this one, our heroine is *gasp* a stripper, which sets the stage for her to meet her white knight. There were several situations where sexual assault factored in; frankly, it makes me uncomfortable in these types of stories. I don't think it is supposed to be an issue we take lightly.
April 28, 2019
This was my first Kat Martin book. I picked it up at a lending library at a KOA. I liked the relationships and the suspense. Id have to agree with another reviewer that I had to re-read several sections because of the amount of side characters and one subplot (missing woman) that doesn’t get tied up in the end.
I liked the longer length of the book and the suspense. I will pick up another book of hers.
I liked the longer length of the book and the suspense. I will pick up another book of hers.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 20, 2020
A cute book to read, and a hardcore follower of the “damsel in distress falls for the bad boy Ranger type” tropes. Some great twists and turns. My only real complaint is that the author would sometimes oversimplify moments- moments from which I had gleaned information already- by immediately afterward stating the important information that she didn’t want the reader to miss. And I understand leading the horse to water, but no need to splash it, too. Otherwise, a fun read, and I liked it.
June 7, 2018
Angel works in a strip club while trying to find her missing sister. Johnnie is a PI who can't get her out of his mind. They partner up to see what they can dig up on Rachel & if she is dead or alive. Their chemistry is off the charts but they are very different people.
Lots of interesting side characters and lots of danger.
Another good Raines of Wind Canyon stories.
Lots of interesting side characters and lots of danger.
Another good Raines of Wind Canyon stories.
August 9, 2018
Johnnie Riggs is looking for a bail jumper at a pole dancer night club. He is immediately drawn to one of the dancers who come to find out is a teacher from the Midwest looking for her sister. Soon Amy has enlisted Johnnie's help in finding her sister. The attraction between the two is red hot but both are determined to do their job.
Another great read!
Another great read!
August 8, 2019
Amy has come to LA to look for her missing sister. She is working at the same place where her sister was working when she disappeared as an exotic dancer. Former ranger, Johnnie Riggs, is strongly attracted to Amy in spite of himself. He volunteers to help her search for her sister, using resources not available to Amy.
Read
October 1, 2020This was the best one so far. "Exotic" dancer Angel Fontaine wants Johnnie Riggs to help her find her sister Rachael, who disappeared under strange circumstances. Well Amy is no dancer, but shes no cream puff. Together they go on a manhunt that takes them to Belize into the hideaway of a notorious drug dealer and try to fight their growing attraction for each other
October 14, 2023
This is such a fantastic book that kept me on edge until the end. Loved how hard Amy works to find out what happened to her sister. Johnnie ends up helping and can’t help falling for her. Loved how protective and possessive he was too. Loved the suspense and was shocked by the plot. Loved their happy ever after and I highly recommend this book.
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