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Walking a Thin Blue Line #1
Razing Kayne
For two years, State Trooper Kayne Dobrescu has wanted only one to understand why his wife inexplicably killed their children and then herself. Memories haunt his days and lay siege to his nights, leaving him questioning his reasons for living.
Jessica Hallstatt became a widow and single mother the night her firefighter husband died in a fiery explosion at an accident scene. While her husband may have died a hero, he left Jessica with deep emotional scars that haven't begun to heal.
When Kayne accepted a transfer to the mountain town of Payson, Arizona, he never expected to meet anyone like Jessica. From the moment he pulled her over for speeding, he was drawn in by her whiskey-colored eyes and sassy dimple. He knows she and her children are a forever type package, and he's vowed never to give anyone the power to destroy him again. Yet fate has other ideas, throwing Kayne and Jessica together in a fight against an unknown enemy to save the life of a child—and hopefully one another.
114,000K words (approx 385 pages)
Jessica Hallstatt became a widow and single mother the night her firefighter husband died in a fiery explosion at an accident scene. While her husband may have died a hero, he left Jessica with deep emotional scars that haven't begun to heal.
When Kayne accepted a transfer to the mountain town of Payson, Arizona, he never expected to meet anyone like Jessica. From the moment he pulled her over for speeding, he was drawn in by her whiskey-colored eyes and sassy dimple. He knows she and her children are a forever type package, and he's vowed never to give anyone the power to destroy him again. Yet fate has other ideas, throwing Kayne and Jessica together in a fight against an unknown enemy to save the life of a child—and hopefully one another.
114,000K words (approx 385 pages)
304 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 20, 2012
42 people are currently reading
3804 people want to read
About the author
Julieanne Reeves
3 books219 followersJulieanne Reeves was a third generation Arizonan with a background in Police-Fire-911 Communications. When she was not spending time spoiling her two wonderful children, she enjoyed reading and writing steamy romantic suspense. Having had the privilege of working with some of the finest Law Enforcement Officers in the nation, it's little wonder her heroes carry a firearm and badge. Julieanne passed away on June 10, 2014 in San Tan Valley. She was 40.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 420 reviews
January 10, 2015
Updated to tell you about an amazing woman...
Some of you might recall that about a month ago, after getting the news that Pamela Clare had been diagnosed with breast cancer, I shared the story of how a few years back she and I "went together in spirit" to get our mammograms. I asked if anyone would be willing to "go with me in spirit" on May 1st, 2014, when I had my appointment (after skipping a couple years) to go.
Well, I had quietly posted my request in one of Pamela's Facebook groups, and the response was pretty good. "Pretty good" that is, until Julianne Reeves took the bull by the horns and ran with it, making my request into a challenge. A challenge that was posted all over Facebook, Twitter, and here on Goodreads. A challenge that might very well have saved lives.
See, that's the kind of woman Julianne was. She didn't sit back waiting for others to get things done. She didn't wait to be told what to do, she just did it. I say that's the kind of woman she "was" because we've gotten news that she has passed away. Though I didn't know Julianne extremely well, I knew her well enough to know that she blessed many lives, and she's got herself a comfy spot in heaven, watching over the rest of us, making sure that we behave ourselves, but not too much. :)
She's one of those people who truly did make the world a better place, and she will be missed.
Please join me in wishing her much peace, love, and joy in her new Home, and sending prayers of comfort to her family.
Author's visual muse for Kayne Dobrescu
Razing Kayne is Julianne Reeves’ debut novel, and it’s a heart-breaking, heart-warming, heart-stopping, and sexy as hell story. It had me fighting back tears one minute, laughing the next, and kept me guessing what might really have happened to Kayne's family, right to the end.
For two years, State Trooper Kayne Dobrescu has wanted only one thing: to understand why his wife inexplicably killed their children and then herself. Memories haunt his days and lay siege to his nights, leaving him questioning his reasons for living.While the plot itself is definitely exciting and intriguing, filled with twists and turns and things I never saw coming, it was Kayne and Jess who kept me turning the pages. For me, the real draw of the story is found in how deeply Kayne's and Jess's failed first marriages affected them, their attempt to leave their pasts in the past, and to make things work between them, despite the odds. In truth, while neither of their previous marriages was rosy, Kayne's was flat out gut-wrenching. I'm not sure how he was able to live those years with the demons - the horrific memories - that haunted him. He could have taken the easy way out and used his own service revolver to end his pain, but he kept on going, kept on serving, kept on existing, if not living.
Jessica Hallstatt became a widow and single mother the night her firefighter husband died in a fiery explosion at an accident scene. While her husband may have died a hero, he left Jessica with deep emotional scars that haven't begun to heal.
When Kayne accepted a transfer to the mountain town of Payson, Arizona, he never expected to meet anyone like Jessica. From the moment he pulled her over for speeding, he was drawn in by her whiskey colored eyes and sassy dimple. But she and her children are a forever type package, and he's vowed never to give anyone the power to destroy him again. Yet fate has other ideas, throwing Kayne and Jessica together in a fight against an unknown enemy to save the life of a child—and hopefully one another.
Jessica is a caring, compassionate woman. Her husband died a hero, but Jess lived with the "real" man and it wasn't all that pretty. She could have become a very bitter person, but instead she focused on helping others, putting her own pain aside, and that's what I loved most about her.
The bottom line: Though not without flaws - what I felt were some unlikely coincidences - Razing Kayne is one hell of a debut novel. It's a sizzling hot, emotionally charged story with compelling characters, and even though they're both far from perfect - quick to fly off the handle, and stubborn as all get out - I found myself invested in Kayne and Jess from the start, and caring about them, each in their own right. But when they finally got together and began working through their issues and trying to solve the mystery surrounding the death of Kayne's family, that's when they became people I couldn’t help but love and cheer for. I didn't just want them to be happy, I needed them to be happy. I had to see them conquer their demons so they could have the happily ever after they both so desperately wanted – and deserved.
Nick Astenbeck's book is next in the Walking a Thin Blue Line series, and from what we know of he and Sarah, it promises to an intense, poignant, and very sexy story.
3.5 stars
My thanks to Ms. Reeves for providing me with a copy of this story in exchange for an honest review. It was a pleasure!
August 14, 2013
4 Heartbreakingly Beautiful Stars
A fiercely realistic book that grabs you by the throat from the prologue and stomps on your heart, just to put it all back together piece after piece, mending it stronger.
Kayne Dobrescu is a man broken. Utterly defeated.
Since childhood he struggled to survive. The police officer, found the dead bodies of his children and witnessed his wife committing suicide. A suspect in their murders once, he barely exists. He spends his nights drinking and trying to find the courage to put his gun in his mouth and pull the damn trigger. But what takes more courage? Living or Dying?
He finds a reason in a beautiful young widow. But life and fate get again in the way, taking the decision out of their hands, rushing in them in something they are not ready, when they both have suffered enough. Unable to trust and properly communicate.
Whatever happened to the good old days of note passing? Do you like me? Circle yes or no. Why was love so complicated?
Jessica Hallstatt lives for her children. This young woman lost her husband and her only happiness is their four adopted children. What noone knows is that her perfect life was a facade and an unimaginable world of hurt lives in her heart.
These two wounded souls need each other. To survive, to live, to love.
You're my North Star and Safe Harbor and all those other sappy clichés, but above all else, you are my dragon slayer.
If only they trust, open their hearts, believe and conquer their past. Which is coming back to haunt them.
Julieanne Reeves does an amazing job in depicting the million shades between happiness and despair. The stages of grief and the guts it takes to face the mistakes and misunderstandings. The charming setting of the small town and the supporting cast of characters, especially the kids, add flavor in the story, keep you on your toes and the sizzling hot scenes, make your heart sing.
A great debut... I'm keeping my eye out for the next books!!
с моего последнего вздоха
A fiercely realistic book that grabs you by the throat from the prologue and stomps on your heart, just to put it all back together piece after piece, mending it stronger.
Kayne Dobrescu is a man broken. Utterly defeated.
Since childhood he struggled to survive. The police officer, found the dead bodies of his children and witnessed his wife committing suicide. A suspect in their murders once, he barely exists. He spends his nights drinking and trying to find the courage to put his gun in his mouth and pull the damn trigger. But what takes more courage? Living or Dying?
He finds a reason in a beautiful young widow. But life and fate get again in the way, taking the decision out of their hands, rushing in them in something they are not ready, when they both have suffered enough. Unable to trust and properly communicate.
Whatever happened to the good old days of note passing? Do you like me? Circle yes or no. Why was love so complicated?
Jessica Hallstatt lives for her children. This young woman lost her husband and her only happiness is their four adopted children. What noone knows is that her perfect life was a facade and an unimaginable world of hurt lives in her heart.
These two wounded souls need each other. To survive, to live, to love.
You're my North Star and Safe Harbor and all those other sappy clichés, but above all else, you are my dragon slayer.
If only they trust, open their hearts, believe and conquer their past. Which is coming back to haunt them.
Julieanne Reeves does an amazing job in depicting the million shades between happiness and despair. The stages of grief and the guts it takes to face the mistakes and misunderstandings. The charming setting of the small town and the supporting cast of characters, especially the kids, add flavor in the story, keep you on your toes and the sizzling hot scenes, make your heart sing.
A great debut... I'm keeping my eye out for the next books!!
January 31, 2013
I LOVED this book, it hooked me from the prologue!! Kayne, such a gut wrenching tragady he endured and Jess, such a loving, beautiful, unselfish soul.
A perfect blend of Romance & Suspense. This book had it all tragedy, romance, suspense, laughter, sarrow, smokin' hot love scenes and pretty much any emotion you can feel. I loved the kid's roles and there were several scene's that made you smile and say "Awwwww".....the secondary characters were just as great and I'm looking forward to their books.
I don't think I can write a review to do this book justice (as Dhes & Steffi did) so I won't. But obviously I HAD to say something because I loved it!!!
A perfect blend of Romance & Suspense. This book had it all tragedy, romance, suspense, laughter, sarrow, smokin' hot love scenes and pretty much any emotion you can feel. I loved the kid's roles and there were several scene's that made you smile and say "Awwwww".....the secondary characters were just as great and I'm looking forward to their books.
I don't think I can write a review to do this book justice (as Dhes & Steffi did) so I won't. But obviously I HAD to say something because I loved it!!!
February 1, 2013
3 ½ Stars!! There is something very appealing about this book, but it was not without issues!!
Okay, so did I blow through the book?! Yes! Would I say I was captivated and intrigued by the story?! Yes! However, it was almost too much of a good thing! Sorry kids, I know so many of you loved this one, but there were a few areas that bothered me and I feel the need to talk about them.
Issue #1 - It was dripping with cheese, or should I say mired in sugar. What made this book so sweet, and it was, nearly had me in a syrupy coma. She does for him; he does for her, insta’ love…all the way around!! Jess and ALL the kids loved Kayne! Not one shied away from him…doesn’t seem right to me. I know, I know, it’s fiction, but this went a bit overboard for my taste. I got it…he found the life that was taken away from him in this new found family…and that was a HUGE plus, but all that and the whole marriage ordeal…the kids were uber-smart...it was a little too damn perfect.
Issue #2 – The mega plot, or should I say the plot that just didn’t quit! Oh, it had some strong points, and I was intrigued by a lot of it, but then…wow…really?! Too much drama…too much coincidence…just too much! I was getting confused, trying to connect the dots; it didn’t present a pretty picture, it was like a 2 year old's drawing… scrawl on paper, the dots and lines were all over the place!
Issue #3 – Back to issue #2, all that plot and not all the answers I was hoping to get in the end. I still am wondering how point A connected to point F, and then back to point B, which ends up at point G, and then the end was…rush, rush, rush! His name was this, hers was that, they were related this way…oh my aching head! I really wish a better of a portion of the book had been used to unravel the plot, instead of this race to the end. I like an exciting read, but I also need to understand what I’m reading and it has to make sense and not just drama for the sake of drama. Skip the parties, some of the lovin’ and give me the goods!!
All this complaining from me, but yet I blew through the book! Why? Because, the prologue wouldn’t allow me to let go…the need to know consumed me, and I like everyone else…LOVED KAYNE!! I wanted this man to have it all! I wanted him to find what he lost and then some, to be so happy and content, so much so, that it overwhelmed him with joy and drove his nightmares to a place deep in his mind, that didn’t haunt his every waking hour! Way to lure me in Julienne Reeves…not bad for a debut book!
Alright, so here’s the bottom line. I’m just one reviewer, and this a favorite for so many readers, so maybe my issues, won’t be yours. Does the author have talent? Yes, no doubt! She just needs to tone it down a little, make up her mind as to what direction she’s taking, and give the reader a chance to wrap their head around all the facts…in a timely fashion!
My suggestion, check out these two amazing reviews that made me read this book in the first place.
UniquelyMoi *Dhestiny* BlithelyBookish’s review
Steffi's review
Their thoughts seem to mirror what so many others are feeling. I was pleased with enough of the story that I will most certainly read the next in the series. This reader will be ‘Walking A Thin Blue Line’ again!!
June 12, 2014
June 12, 2014
**This quote is from Kaylea Cross' facebook page,
"I just heard that Julieanne Reeves passed away yesterday and I'm in absolute shock. She was my dedicated beta reader responsible for checking all my important military and law enforcement details in my books and she ALWAYS went above and beyond with her research for me. Like, crazy.
She leaves behind two children.
I feel sick to my stomach.
God bless you, Julieanne, and your children. I guess heaven needed another angel."
My prayers in thoughts go out to Julieanne's family. RIP Julieanne.
April 7, 2013
WOW!!
What an AMAZING story!!
It was literally felt like a roller-coaster ride reading this!
There was action, suspense, drama, mystery, and of course an amazing love story.
LOVED Kayne!! He was such an uber-alpha, kick-ass, 'protect what's your' male
and Jess *sigh*.. what a Beautiful character you were!!
Your strength, and unconditional love for your children..and then for Kayne was humbling and inspiring to read.
The writing, characters, and story AMAZING!!
The ending and epilogue.... AWESOME!!
Favorite Quote:
"With My Last Breath"
Thank you so much Dorsey for recommending this book!
Loved it!!
February 7, 2014
I loved this book. I thought it was different from the typical romances I've been reading lately and just what I needed. And I love a hero who starts out miserable and ends up deliriously happy!
No plot recap, just my thoughts here...
Plenty of angst, some hot sex, happiness, misunderstandings, hurtful words, sweet makeups, wonderful family moments, and some nail biting suspense too. I enjoyed the secondary characters (looking forward to some of (Arizona Highway Patrolman) Kayne's coworkers stories)--and was there a sweeter kid than baby Grace? Or a better Daddy than Kayne? How sexy was that?! How Kayne could be so sighworthy as a dad and a lover, considering what he came from, and all he'd been through, amazed me.
Kayne...
I also loved Jess in all her mama-bear glory. How she could ever doubt her self-worth was beyond me. Thank god Kayne was there to make her see the light.
"Jess"...
There were a few "you must suspend disbelief moments"/coincidences in this one to help move the plot along, but it didn't bother me. And yes, sometimes it seemed like law enforcement didn't quite know what they were doing (thank god for Jess's savvy kids!) but the story details, the fleshing out of the characters and the romance more than made up for some of the "huh?" moments. I enjoyed this writer's style and eagerly look forward to the next book in the series. This book never failed to entertain and often kept me on the edge of my seat. Never once was I bored or tempted to skim. In fact, I was disappointed when it ended--and only because I could've read 50 more pages about Jess and Kayne (although I wish it was spelled "Kane" because more than once I read it as "Kanye" and I didn't need that image in my head!)
In sum, one of the most enjoyable, emotional, entertaining reads of the year for me, and one of my favorite "they-deserve-a-HEA" couples. 5 stars
Epilogue:
No plot recap, just my thoughts here...
Plenty of angst, some hot sex, happiness, misunderstandings, hurtful words, sweet makeups, wonderful family moments, and some nail biting suspense too. I enjoyed the secondary characters (looking forward to some of (Arizona Highway Patrolman) Kayne's coworkers stories)--and was there a sweeter kid than baby Grace? Or a better Daddy than Kayne? How sexy was that?! How Kayne could be so sighworthy as a dad and a lover, considering what he came from, and all he'd been through, amazed me.
Kayne...
I also loved Jess in all her mama-bear glory. How she could ever doubt her self-worth was beyond me. Thank god Kayne was there to make her see the light.
"Jess"...
There were a few "you must suspend disbelief moments"/coincidences in this one to help move the plot along, but it didn't bother me. And yes, sometimes it seemed like law enforcement didn't quite know what they were doing (thank god for Jess's savvy kids!) but the story details, the fleshing out of the characters and the romance more than made up for some of the "huh?" moments. I enjoyed this writer's style and eagerly look forward to the next book in the series. This book never failed to entertain and often kept me on the edge of my seat. Never once was I bored or tempted to skim. In fact, I was disappointed when it ended--and only because I could've read 50 more pages about Jess and Kayne (although I wish it was spelled "Kane" because more than once I read it as "Kanye" and I didn't need that image in my head!)
In sum, one of the most enjoyable, emotional, entertaining reads of the year for me, and one of my favorite "they-deserve-a-HEA" couples. 5 stars
Epilogue:
October 21, 2012
A gut wrenching roller coaster that expertly blends romance and suspense.
From the shocking opening scene to the gut gripping reveal at the end the author takes us on an emotional journey like no other I have read. The author incorporates her real life experiences in 911 communication and real life tragedies ripped from the headlines and mesmerizes you in this debut novel.
As the description of the book gives a very good understanding of what the book is about I am not going to rehash that and this is one of those books I think you need to take the journey of discovery on your own. Feel each of the painful things that happen to Kayne and Jessica and on the journey with them as they discover love again and then be shocked when it’s all revealed why all this tragedy happened.
Its always a treat to find a new author you love and that I did in Julieanne Reeves. I am looking forward to the next book in this series.
From the shocking opening scene to the gut gripping reveal at the end the author takes us on an emotional journey like no other I have read. The author incorporates her real life experiences in 911 communication and real life tragedies ripped from the headlines and mesmerizes you in this debut novel.
As the description of the book gives a very good understanding of what the book is about I am not going to rehash that and this is one of those books I think you need to take the journey of discovery on your own. Feel each of the painful things that happen to Kayne and Jessica and on the journey with them as they discover love again and then be shocked when it’s all revealed why all this tragedy happened.
Its always a treat to find a new author you love and that I did in Julieanne Reeves. I am looking forward to the next book in this series.
May 19, 2019
4 Stars
Overall Opinion: This was better than I expected it to be. I'm not sure why I put it off so long, but I'm happy I gave in. It might've been the blurb, because I thought that the part that says "throwing Kayne and Jessica together in a fight against an unknown enemy to save the life of a child" was misleading. I had the impression that it was but that was wrong -- which was good for me, because I didn't find that idea appealing at all. I adored Kayne's interactions with the kids! I think that is one of my favorite types of interactions in romance books (kids with h or H), and this ranks high up there for me. Poor Kayne had such a traumatic story, that I was really happy that he got his HEA.
Brief Summary of the Storyline: I can't say too much without ruining it, so I'll keep this really brief. This is Jessica and Kayne's story. They meet when Kayne pulls over Jessica for speeding. They flirt a little, and both can't stop thinking about each other afterwards. Both had been through traumatic losses and after bumping into each other a few times, they bond over that commonality and start a relationship. There is some family and friend issues, some sexy times, some sweet moments, some big reveals, and some suspenseful events...and they get their much deserved HEA ending.
POV: This alternated between focusing on Jessica and Kayne in 3rd person narrative.
Overall Pace of Story: Good -- I never skimmed, and it flowed pretty well. The ending was one of those that the big conflict happened and then it jumped right into the epilogue, and that is one of my pet peeves -- but with this one, I felt good about their relationship before the big conflict making it easier to take.
Instalove: No. Instant attraction, yes. They developed feelings over a good amount of time (even though they took forever to say "I love you").
H rating: 4.5 stars. Kayne. I really liked his character. He was totally amazing with the kids even though he had every reason to not be, he was extremely loyal, and he was a alpha hot too. My only issue is that he said some things without thinking when he was angry that always seemed to backfire.
h rating: 3.5 stars. Jessica. I liked her, and how she was such a great mom and all around good person. I did have some annoyance with her "he doesn't really want me" low self esteem bit (especially because the H never gave her any reason to be that way).
Sadness level: Low/moderate. While it definitely had some sad scenes, I never needed any tissues.
Push/Pull: Not really. Both of them do take a while to verbally confess their feelings towards one another.
Heat level: Moderate. They have some hot chemistry and scenes.
Descriptive sex: Yes
Safe sex: Not really. The h was told she was infertile, so they didn't use condoms. No other birth control, std status, or past practices (except a brief mention of a condom failure for the H) that I remember.
OW/OM drama: Not really, just past issues sometimes come up from both of their dead spouses.
Sex scene with OW or OM: No
Cheating: No
Separation:No
Possible Triggers: Yes
Closure: This had a kind of abrupt ending, but a cute epilogue with a HEA ending.
How I got it: It was part of my scribed subscription.
Safety: Safe with exception
Overall Opinion: This was better than I expected it to be. I'm not sure why I put it off so long, but I'm happy I gave in. It might've been the blurb, because I thought that the part that says "throwing Kayne and Jessica together in a fight against an unknown enemy to save the life of a child" was misleading. I had the impression that it was but that was wrong -- which was good for me, because I didn't find that idea appealing at all. I adored Kayne's interactions with the kids! I think that is one of my favorite types of interactions in romance books (kids with h or H), and this ranks high up there for me. Poor Kayne had such a traumatic story, that I was really happy that he got his HEA.
Brief Summary of the Storyline: I can't say too much without ruining it, so I'll keep this really brief. This is Jessica and Kayne's story. They meet when Kayne pulls over Jessica for speeding. They flirt a little, and both can't stop thinking about each other afterwards. Both had been through traumatic losses and after bumping into each other a few times, they bond over that commonality and start a relationship. There is some family and friend issues, some sexy times, some sweet moments, some big reveals, and some suspenseful events...and they get their much deserved HEA ending.
POV: This alternated between focusing on Jessica and Kayne in 3rd person narrative.
Overall Pace of Story: Good -- I never skimmed, and it flowed pretty well. The ending was one of those that the big conflict happened and then it jumped right into the epilogue, and that is one of my pet peeves -- but with this one, I felt good about their relationship before the big conflict making it easier to take.
Instalove: No. Instant attraction, yes. They developed feelings over a good amount of time (even though they took forever to say "I love you").
H rating: 4.5 stars. Kayne. I really liked his character. He was totally amazing with the kids even though he had every reason to not be, he was extremely loyal, and he was a alpha hot too. My only issue is that he said some things without thinking when he was angry that always seemed to backfire.
h rating: 3.5 stars. Jessica. I liked her, and how she was such a great mom and all around good person. I did have some annoyance with her "he doesn't really want me" low self esteem bit (especially because the H never gave her any reason to be that way).
Sadness level: Low/moderate. While it definitely had some sad scenes, I never needed any tissues.
Push/Pull: Not really. Both of them do take a while to verbally confess their feelings towards one another.
Heat level: Moderate. They have some hot chemistry and scenes.
Descriptive sex: Yes
Safe sex: Not really. The h was told she was infertile, so they didn't use condoms. No other birth control, std status, or past practices (except a brief mention of a condom failure for the H) that I remember.
OW/OM drama: Not really, just past issues sometimes come up from both of their dead spouses.
Sex scene with OW or OM: No
Cheating: No
Separation:No
Possible Triggers: Yes
Closure: This had a kind of abrupt ending, but a cute epilogue with a HEA ending.
How I got it: It was part of my scribed subscription.
Safety: Safe with exception
January 4, 2013
I have stated before that my addiction to reading started after reading The Twilight Saga. I had no idea such truly AWESOME authors and books were out there that would continue to feed my addiction. I have my favorite authors that have me anxiously waiting for each new release. And since I started my blog, I have been introduced to such a wide variety of books and new-to-me authors that I would have never found otherwise. One such author is Julieanne Reeves. I was thrilled when Julieanne contacted me after seeing that I added Razing Kayne to my Goodreads TBR pile with the offer to read and review her debut novel.
I had no idea how totally and immediately consumed I would be by this book!! I didn't want it to end and I found it difficult to put down to perform vital necessities!! lol I was never able to come to a point where I could put it down and get things done~I had to finish it~I was so invested in the story and characters that I had to know if Kayne and Jessica found their HEA!! I can honestly say that I am obsessed with Razing Kayne. lol Oh...I LOVE this cover!!! Julianne definitely gained a HUGE HUGE fan in me with this book!!
Kayne *sigh* Oh...Kayne...he was such an awesome character. He was a sexy, charming, broken, loyal, tortured, caring, loving, sweet, cocky, strong, uniform wearing (State Trooper), SEX GOD!!!! lol ;p If I hadn't fell in love with him in the beginning of the prologue or in the heartwarming scenes with the kids (especially the toe nail painting scenes *sigh*), I definitely would have fallen in love with him during those HOT~SWEATY~STEAMY~INTENSE sex scenes!!! lol ;p I definitely want a Kayne of my own. The things he said and did for Jessica~swoon worthy!!! I loved Jessica just as much. Her character was so sweet and caring and broken that I rooted for her to find her HEA with Kayne!! :)
The story and characters grabbed me from the beginning and would not let go. Razing Kayne had everything that I look for and love in a book and it was my pleasure to read!! I love the way Julieanne writes and I am definitely looking for more from her. I can't wait for the next book in this series. We get a hint of about Nick's story in the epilogue and it sounds like it's going to be a good one. I am so interested in the stories of Rafe, Trace, Ondrej, Joe, and Mark and am crossing my fingers that they each get their own books and we get to see more of Kayne and Jessica and those adorable kids!! :)
Razing Kayne is made of pure AWESOMENESS!! ;)
BEST OF THE BEST rating!!! Definitely in my keeper pile to be reread!!
***ARC provided by Julieanne Reeves~Thank you so much!!
I had no idea how totally and immediately consumed I would be by this book!! I didn't want it to end and I found it difficult to put down to perform vital necessities!! lol I was never able to come to a point where I could put it down and get things done~I had to finish it~I was so invested in the story and characters that I had to know if Kayne and Jessica found their HEA!! I can honestly say that I am obsessed with Razing Kayne. lol Oh...I LOVE this cover!!! Julianne definitely gained a HUGE HUGE fan in me with this book!!
Kayne *sigh* Oh...Kayne...he was such an awesome character. He was a sexy, charming, broken, loyal, tortured, caring, loving, sweet, cocky, strong, uniform wearing (State Trooper), SEX GOD!!!! lol ;p If I hadn't fell in love with him in the beginning of the prologue or in the heartwarming scenes with the kids (especially the toe nail painting scenes *sigh*), I definitely would have fallen in love with him during those HOT~SWEATY~STEAMY~INTENSE sex scenes!!! lol ;p I definitely want a Kayne of my own. The things he said and did for Jessica~swoon worthy!!! I loved Jessica just as much. Her character was so sweet and caring and broken that I rooted for her to find her HEA with Kayne!! :)
The story and characters grabbed me from the beginning and would not let go. Razing Kayne had everything that I look for and love in a book and it was my pleasure to read!! I love the way Julieanne writes and I am definitely looking for more from her. I can't wait for the next book in this series. We get a hint of about Nick's story in the epilogue and it sounds like it's going to be a good one. I am so interested in the stories of Rafe, Trace, Ondrej, Joe, and Mark and am crossing my fingers that they each get their own books and we get to see more of Kayne and Jessica and those adorable kids!! :)
Razing Kayne is made of pure AWESOMENESS!! ;)
BEST OF THE BEST rating!!! Definitely in my keeper pile to be reread!!
***ARC provided by Julieanne Reeves~Thank you so much!!
May 28, 2013
This missed the mark for me, with all the rave reviews I was surprised I didn’t enjoy this more. I guess I found the whole thing impossible to believe. Kayne is a police officer, he walks into his house and sees two of his three children dead, by drowning. His wife is standing over them crying. When Kayne runs to them, his wife takes his gun and shoots herself. No one knows what happened to his youngest daughter, her body is never found.
Now the whole book could have just been about Kayne and finding his way back to living. After something like this i would assume the road back to happiness is not guaranteed. I cannot imagine anything worse for a parent.
Jessica’s husband was a fireman and was killed trying to save a baby girl from a burning car, who Jessica ends up adopting. Actually all of Jessica’s children are adopted. Jessica appears to be an angel sent from heaven. Her kids are perfect little cherubs, everyone loves Jessica and her kids. *rolling eyes*. But does Kanye get Miss Perfect Angel, no he does not. He gets the insecure, distant, drama queen Jessica. Now, Jessica is also fighting her own demons from her previous marriage. her husband cut her down, belittled her, she in convinced no man would ever desire her. And as far as I can tell Kayne spends a great deal of his time trying to fix Jessica. He wants her to know she is loved and cherished and respected and desired. What I didn’t see was Jessica trying to help Kayne heal his wounds. *still eye rolling here*.
Now, if you have not read the book you would probably assume I gave away all of the story. No way! This is only the tip of the iceberg.
What i will say is I liked Kayne. He was a survivor, a warrior, someone who would not let the circumstances of his life beat him into the ground.
I won’t give anymore of the story away, but a whole lotta stuff happens. There were times I found it hard to follow and when one thing after another kept happening to these two I found it hard to believe. I was waiting for the aliens to land at any moment! (don’t worry they didn’t).
Now i feel like I am ranting, so I will stop here. And while this is exactly how I feel I know I am in the minority. So keep that in mind when you read this
Two stars for Kayne, one star for Jessica
November 15, 2013
All I kept thinking as I read this book is 'Wow, this is such a great story' and I totally didn't want it to end. From the first chapter and it's unimaginable tragedy that befalls our hero I simply could not tear myself away!
State Trooper Kayne Dobrescu suffers the unimaginable tragedy of having his wife murder their children and then kill herself in front of him. With no answers and unable to stay in that home or town any longer he accepts a transfer to a small mountain town in Arizona to try and move on. When he pulls over Jessica Hallstatt for speeding he is intrigued with her to say the least, but wholeheartedly wants no part of dating or relationships of any kind. Especially with a woman who is the widow of a firefighter who was killed at an accident scene, and who is a single mother to 4 adopted children.
I don't want to go into to much detail about this story as there are some really great surprises and some fantastic suspense. Of course, Kayne keeping his distance and not falling for Jessica, and vise versa is totally out of the question so as you can imagine, sparks fly!!
This story was one of the best I've read in awhile and I would recommend it to just about everyone. If you like a story that will surprise you, definitely make you shed some tears and make you feel all warm and fuzzy at times, along with some really great sex scenes. Get yourself a copy of this book! You won't regret it!
I loved it so much I am really excited about the fact that it is labeled as 'Walking a Thin Blue Line #1' which has to mean there are more coming, right!!! Woo Hoo!!! This girl can't wait!!
I will leave you with my minds eye version of Kayne Dobrescu.....yummm!
State Trooper Kayne Dobrescu suffers the unimaginable tragedy of having his wife murder their children and then kill herself in front of him. With no answers and unable to stay in that home or town any longer he accepts a transfer to a small mountain town in Arizona to try and move on. When he pulls over Jessica Hallstatt for speeding he is intrigued with her to say the least, but wholeheartedly wants no part of dating or relationships of any kind. Especially with a woman who is the widow of a firefighter who was killed at an accident scene, and who is a single mother to 4 adopted children.
I don't want to go into to much detail about this story as there are some really great surprises and some fantastic suspense. Of course, Kayne keeping his distance and not falling for Jessica, and vise versa is totally out of the question so as you can imagine, sparks fly!!
This story was one of the best I've read in awhile and I would recommend it to just about everyone. If you like a story that will surprise you, definitely make you shed some tears and make you feel all warm and fuzzy at times, along with some really great sex scenes. Get yourself a copy of this book! You won't regret it!
I loved it so much I am really excited about the fact that it is labeled as 'Walking a Thin Blue Line #1' which has to mean there are more coming, right!!! Woo Hoo!!! This girl can't wait!!
I will leave you with my minds eye version of Kayne Dobrescu.....yummm!
January 11, 2013
This was another winner and a great surprise. If I hadn't stayed up until 2:00am, I'd be able to write more!
Okay...I'm back I need to try to write something since this author is new for me and I really recommend it for those looking for heavier emotional romance/suspense. Kayne is a Russian American (for those of you who love hot Russian Heroes - Danielle!) and his back story is painful to read. Jess/h was a wonderfully written character with an amazing amount of love to give but burdened at times by insecurity and self doubt.
I was really in the mood for a beautiful love story and this delivered.
There were a lot of coincidences in this book that are a little over the top but I know how romances work and sometimes you just have to go with it and enjoy the eventual HEA!
As the story progressed, I was introduced to secondary characters I hope to see again in future books.
I'm adding #2 to my TBR!
FYI - Nice amount of steamier scenes towards the end, steam lovers will enjoy! :)
Okay...I'm back I need to try to write something since this author is new for me and I really recommend it for those looking for heavier emotional romance/suspense. Kayne is a Russian American (for those of you who love hot Russian Heroes - Danielle!) and his back story is painful to read. Jess/h was a wonderfully written character with an amazing amount of love to give but burdened at times by insecurity and self doubt.
I was really in the mood for a beautiful love story and this delivered.
There were a lot of coincidences in this book that are a little over the top but I know how romances work and sometimes you just have to go with it and enjoy the eventual HEA!
As the story progressed, I was introduced to secondary characters I hope to see again in future books.
I'm adding #2 to my TBR!
FYI - Nice amount of steamier scenes towards the end, steam lovers will enjoy! :)
November 27, 2012
I am normally not a really in depth reviewer but since there were so many 5 star reviews and mine doesn't even come close to that, I thought I would explain.
*It felt like the author was trying to throw every plot device she has ever thought of into the book - bad childhood, being better than that bad childhood, cheating husband, husband's friend being in love with widow, loss of a child, found child, the mob-like villain, etc.
*All these plots devices created way too much going on in the book. I could have sworn that I was close to the end at times because so much had gone on, only to find that I was only 23% through...UGH! The biggest problem with that is that it also created a very disjointed book. Some parts felt contemporary romance, some felt romantic suspense, but it never really felt like a flowing romantic suspense.
*When it came to the overall flow, I know the author used to be a 911 dispatcher, using the codes instead of just saying what is going on is distracting and can pull a reader out of the story. I have seen the same thing happen with military books.
*Many times I found myself saying "Really?!?!?" The suspense part at the end of the book was the worst. Really? You could have taken that story line alone and made a great book out of it but throwing it in during the last few chapters...UGH!
*Both Kayne and Jess felt flat to me. Nothing warms my heart like a tortured hero :) and although technically Kayne was a tortured hero, my heart never ached for him like it has others, which it should have considering his back story. I think this directly goes back to the fact that there was so much going on that it at times felt contrived to put him in some of these situations.
In the end, although I can understand why others may have greatly enjoyed this book, it didn't work for me at all. I kept reading, thinking that eventually I would see why so many felt this was a 5 star book but I just never found it.
*It felt like the author was trying to throw every plot device she has ever thought of into the book - bad childhood, being better than that bad childhood, cheating husband, husband's friend being in love with widow, loss of a child, found child, the mob-like villain, etc.
*All these plots devices created way too much going on in the book. I could have sworn that I was close to the end at times because so much had gone on, only to find that I was only 23% through...UGH! The biggest problem with that is that it also created a very disjointed book. Some parts felt contemporary romance, some felt romantic suspense, but it never really felt like a flowing romantic suspense.
*When it came to the overall flow, I know the author used to be a 911 dispatcher, using the codes instead of just saying what is going on is distracting and can pull a reader out of the story. I have seen the same thing happen with military books.
*Many times I found myself saying "Really?!?!?" The suspense part at the end of the book was the worst. Really? You could have taken that story line alone and made a great book out of it but throwing it in during the last few chapters...UGH!
*Both Kayne and Jess felt flat to me. Nothing warms my heart like a tortured hero :) and although technically Kayne was a tortured hero, my heart never ached for him like it has others, which it should have considering his back story. I think this directly goes back to the fact that there was so much going on that it at times felt contrived to put him in some of these situations.
In the end, although I can understand why others may have greatly enjoyed this book, it didn't work for me at all. I kept reading, thinking that eventually I would see why so many felt this was a 5 star book but I just never found it.
May 5, 2013
Good god, I loved this book.
You barely get the tip of the story iceberg in the blurb, and I didn't read any reviews first, so I was more than a little blindsided by the storyline. Both Kayne and Jess have such deep emotional scars from their pasts, it was hard for me to read sometimes.
Kayne is barely living after the loss if his three children and wife two years earlier. He spends his nights drinking and contemplating taking his own life. He was an amazing character. The more I learned about him, the more I loved him. He wasn't just sexy with no substance. His sense of duty, his belief in following through with his promises, even when it wasn't easy; his ability to keep trying, even in the face of no progress, it was all just so - Wow. He was truly what you'd call a man of honor.
Jess is an amazing woman, and mother. She always, always puts her kids first, and has the biggest heart. It is easy to see why they both fall so quickly for each other. It was beautiful how they each really did seem to fit perfectly into the others broken parts, so they could both be whole again.
But, this wasn't just a great love story. I was taken by surprise by the mystery/action portion of the book. While there were a few perhaps too coincidental plot twists, it was engaging. I liked that there was a good balance between the action and the evolution of Kayne and Jess's relationship. My heart strings were pulled more than once during this books, both by past and present occurrences. I had to keep my tissues handy.
I'm thrilled that this is just the beginning of the stories for the characters introduced in the book. There were so many who all but jumped off the page and demanded more story time. I'll definitely be picking up Nick's book when it's released.
You barely get the tip of the story iceberg in the blurb, and I didn't read any reviews first, so I was more than a little blindsided by the storyline. Both Kayne and Jess have such deep emotional scars from their pasts, it was hard for me to read sometimes.
Kayne is barely living after the loss if his three children and wife two years earlier. He spends his nights drinking and contemplating taking his own life. He was an amazing character. The more I learned about him, the more I loved him. He wasn't just sexy with no substance. His sense of duty, his belief in following through with his promises, even when it wasn't easy; his ability to keep trying, even in the face of no progress, it was all just so - Wow. He was truly what you'd call a man of honor.
Jess is an amazing woman, and mother. She always, always puts her kids first, and has the biggest heart. It is easy to see why they both fall so quickly for each other. It was beautiful how they each really did seem to fit perfectly into the others broken parts, so they could both be whole again.
But, this wasn't just a great love story. I was taken by surprise by the mystery/action portion of the book. While there were a few perhaps too coincidental plot twists, it was engaging. I liked that there was a good balance between the action and the evolution of Kayne and Jess's relationship. My heart strings were pulled more than once during this books, both by past and present occurrences. I had to keep my tissues handy.
I'm thrilled that this is just the beginning of the stories for the characters introduced in the book. There were so many who all but jumped off the page and demanded more story time. I'll definitely be picking up Nick's book when it's released.
February 11, 2015
Overall rating: 5 "My North Star" stars!!! Oh, I loved this book!!!
Triggers:
Cheating:
Love triangle:
Sex with om/ow:
HEA:
My review:
Goodness. My only question is why did I wait so long to read this damn book?! Even the premise/preview for Nick's book sounds so fantastic. It is SO sad that this author died. She was very talented. This book is a freaking great start of a series :(
Kayne Dobrescu went through one of the most horrifying experiences 2 years ago. His wife inexplicably two of their three children then pulled a gun on herself right in front of him. Their baby girl, Tasha was missing and presumed to be dead as well. But all is not what it seems. Hearing Kayne retell this story is simply heartbreaking. I cannot even imagine what he went through. He struggles everyday with life. Why was he spared? Why did this happen to him and his family? Did he do something wrong? He lives with tremendous guilt and does not believe that he ever deserves any happiness if his family had to suffer and die for him to get it. When a new assignment opens up in a new town (out of the California heat) he jumps right on the chance.
Jessica Hallstat is newly widowed after her firefighter husband died in an explosion while saving a little girl about two years ago. From that marriage, Jessica has 4 children. All of them adopted after Jessica miscarried years ago. Jessica is a fantastic mother and a fantastic person. She is loving, honest, giving, strong and oh so sweet, but mess with her children/family and her momma bear will definitely come out. Knowing that she was widowed and how it happened is one thing, but then we delve into her past - including her marriage to her deceased husband. It was not all rainbows and kittens, that's for sure. Her story was also so very heartbreaking!
During a routine traffic stop for speeding, Kayne meets Jessica Hallstatt. The moment he sees her and her children, he can't stop thinking about her. Fate definitely has a hand in keeping these two in constant contact with each other until circumstances force these two to spend every day together.
I absolutely LOVED their love story. It was a slow burn, but oh so worth it. The moment he meets Jessica, there is no other woman on his mind. Not that he was a man whore before that because he wasn't. In fact, it was so hard for him to even WANT intimacy with a woman after his wife killed herself right before his eyes. He did have sex since then, but casually and only once in awhile.
I won't say anymore about the plot line so that I don't ruin the story for you, but *sighs* Kayne became so damn romantic. All of the things he does for Jessica are just so beautifully thought out and genuine. Then this story turns a bit suspenseful. I literally couldn't put this book down for like the last 15 chapters or so.
If anyone deserved happiness, it was these two for sure.
AND OMG I forgot to mention the children! I freaking LOVED them to pieces! Isabella aka Sabella, little Gracie, Ashy and Maddy. There were many children scenes and they were all so heart warming. I loved those damn kids!!!!!!!!
Here are some fantastic quotes not included in my status updates:
"I need you, Jess, with everything in me I need you, not just now or tonight, but forever. You're my North Star and Safe Harbor and all those other sappy clichés, but above all else, you are my dragon slayer. I need you tonight. I need you in my arms where I can feel your heart beating in time with mine. Just hold me and… and let me hold you in return.”
“I designed this and had it made especially for you. The trefoil is the symbol of immortality: a beginning without an end, like our life together. The hearts represent my love for you. Forever love. Unending like the knot they form. I chose opals instead of diamonds, because opals are warm living stones, each color a birth stone, yours being the center of this ring just like you are the center of our family. “I know the inscription isn’t original, but the meaning behind the words is. I wrote those words for the wife I dreamed of. And here you are. With My Last Breath.”
I am sure I had at least one more, but I lent my book to someone before I finished my review!! LOL Do yourself a favor and pick up this book!!!
Triggers:
Cheating:
Love triangle:
Sex with om/ow:
HEA:
My review:
Goodness. My only question is why did I wait so long to read this damn book?! Even the premise/preview for Nick's book sounds so fantastic. It is SO sad that this author died. She was very talented. This book is a freaking great start of a series :(
Kayne Dobrescu went through one of the most horrifying experiences 2 years ago. His wife inexplicably two of their three children then pulled a gun on herself right in front of him. Their baby girl, Tasha was missing and presumed to be dead as well. But all is not what it seems. Hearing Kayne retell this story is simply heartbreaking. I cannot even imagine what he went through. He struggles everyday with life. Why was he spared? Why did this happen to him and his family? Did he do something wrong? He lives with tremendous guilt and does not believe that he ever deserves any happiness if his family had to suffer and die for him to get it. When a new assignment opens up in a new town (out of the California heat) he jumps right on the chance.
Jessica Hallstat is newly widowed after her firefighter husband died in an explosion while saving a little girl about two years ago. From that marriage, Jessica has 4 children. All of them adopted after Jessica miscarried years ago. Jessica is a fantastic mother and a fantastic person. She is loving, honest, giving, strong and oh so sweet, but mess with her children/family and her momma bear will definitely come out. Knowing that she was widowed and how it happened is one thing, but then we delve into her past - including her marriage to her deceased husband. It was not all rainbows and kittens, that's for sure. Her story was also so very heartbreaking!
During a routine traffic stop for speeding, Kayne meets Jessica Hallstatt. The moment he sees her and her children, he can't stop thinking about her. Fate definitely has a hand in keeping these two in constant contact with each other until circumstances force these two to spend every day together.
I absolutely LOVED their love story. It was a slow burn, but oh so worth it. The moment he meets Jessica, there is no other woman on his mind. Not that he was a man whore before that because he wasn't. In fact, it was so hard for him to even WANT intimacy with a woman after his wife killed herself right before his eyes. He did have sex since then, but casually and only once in awhile.
I won't say anymore about the plot line so that I don't ruin the story for you, but *sighs* Kayne became so damn romantic. All of the things he does for Jessica are just so beautifully thought out and genuine. Then this story turns a bit suspenseful. I literally couldn't put this book down for like the last 15 chapters or so.
If anyone deserved happiness, it was these two for sure.
AND OMG I forgot to mention the children! I freaking LOVED them to pieces! Isabella aka Sabella, little Gracie, Ashy and Maddy. There were many children scenes and they were all so heart warming. I loved those damn kids!!!!!!!!
Here are some fantastic quotes not included in my status updates:
"I need you, Jess, with everything in me I need you, not just now or tonight, but forever. You're my North Star and Safe Harbor and all those other sappy clichés, but above all else, you are my dragon slayer. I need you tonight. I need you in my arms where I can feel your heart beating in time with mine. Just hold me and… and let me hold you in return.”
“I designed this and had it made especially for you. The trefoil is the symbol of immortality: a beginning without an end, like our life together. The hearts represent my love for you. Forever love. Unending like the knot they form. I chose opals instead of diamonds, because opals are warm living stones, each color a birth stone, yours being the center of this ring just like you are the center of our family. “I know the inscription isn’t original, but the meaning behind the words is. I wrote those words for the wife I dreamed of. And here you are. With My Last Breath.”
I am sure I had at least one more, but I lent my book to someone before I finished my review!! LOL Do yourself a favor and pick up this book!!!
December 3, 2019
Spoilers ahead 3.5*
This was pretty good, especially the latter half
Kayne's wife apparently killed herself and his two children and they never found his youngest daughter. After being suspected of the murders Kayne transferred to another town working in the highway patrol unit. One day he pulls a woman over for speeding and meets Jessica and her gorgeous kids. Pretty soon Kayne finds himself involved in their lives with an inexplicable connection to the baby of the family.....in a shocking turn of events Kayne's past comes crashing into his present with devastating effects
Jessica had spent years in a marriage to an unfaithful husband who died on the night he asked for a divorce. With the settlement from his death she's been able to rebuild a life for herself and her threes kids with the child her husband died saving rounding out their little family. Her attraction to Kayne is a shock but his connection to little Grace is what sends her reeling
********
The first part of this I almost DNF...... Kayne came across as a hothead unable to control his temper or his tongue. He'd been through something truly horrific so I kept faith and he eventually turned things around a bit
The circumstances of Grace being his daughter were plausible but their reactions were not. A simple DNA test and communication would've saved a lot of the drama that evolved from that situation but then maybe the marriage wouldn't have been suggested. I lost some respect for Jess at her response to the situation however ,
Jess staying with her husband even though she knew hw was cheating was another instance where I lost some respect for her but she was a great mom and a genuinely good person
Cody's involvement too was a bit OTT but I guess taking him out earlier would've affected the ending
The kids were the best parts for me
The wrap up became a bit OTT with the heartless Russian connection but it worked out ok in the end
There were quite a bit of frustrating moments, some cute moments,some funny moments and some touching moments. While this book wasn't perfect it's clear the author was talented. I was really looking forward to more in the series but it seems the author has passed. I'm still glad I gave this one a try
RIP dear author
Kayne's children were killed and his wife committed suicide
Talk of rape amd the h is attacked
After his wife's death Kayne had hookups but nothing too bad or descriptive
h had only been with her cheating husband
OM drama from Cody who wanted the h
This was pretty good, especially the latter half
Kayne's wife apparently killed herself and his two children and they never found his youngest daughter. After being suspected of the murders Kayne transferred to another town working in the highway patrol unit. One day he pulls a woman over for speeding and meets Jessica and her gorgeous kids. Pretty soon Kayne finds himself involved in their lives with an inexplicable connection to the baby of the family.....in a shocking turn of events Kayne's past comes crashing into his present with devastating effects
Jessica had spent years in a marriage to an unfaithful husband who died on the night he asked for a divorce. With the settlement from his death she's been able to rebuild a life for herself and her threes kids with the child her husband died saving rounding out their little family. Her attraction to Kayne is a shock but his connection to little Grace is what sends her reeling
********
The first part of this I almost DNF...... Kayne came across as a hothead unable to control his temper or his tongue. He'd been through something truly horrific so I kept faith and he eventually turned things around a bit
The circumstances of Grace being his daughter were plausible but their reactions were not. A simple DNA test and communication would've saved a lot of the drama that evolved from that situation but then maybe the marriage wouldn't have been suggested. I lost some respect for Jess at her response to the situation however ,
Jess staying with her husband even though she knew hw was cheating was another instance where I lost some respect for her but she was a great mom and a genuinely good person
Cody's involvement too was a bit OTT but I guess taking him out earlier would've affected the ending
The kids were the best parts for me
The wrap up became a bit OTT with the heartless Russian connection but it worked out ok in the end
There were quite a bit of frustrating moments, some cute moments,some funny moments and some touching moments. While this book wasn't perfect it's clear the author was talented. I was really looking forward to more in the series but it seems the author has passed. I'm still glad I gave this one a try
RIP dear author
Kayne's children were killed and his wife committed suicide
Talk of rape amd the h is attacked
After his wife's death Kayne had hookups but nothing too bad or descriptive
h had only been with her cheating husband
OM drama from Cody who wanted the h
April 25, 2016
This one took me forever to pick up. I knew going into it that I would have a hard time because it had one of my biggest triggers . However a lot of my goodreads friends rave over this book and after reading it I understand why. I will admit it took me awhile to get over the horror of the first chapter. That is any parents worst nightmare. Once I did though I settled into the book like a long lost friend was telling me about their life.
Wow this woman could weave a tale that was so intricate that you thought you knew what was going on but really you just knew the tip of the iceberg. That right there gives this book 5 stars. Beyond that she created a broken man that while he was broken he still had honor, integrity, and a core of strength that was amazing. Typically authors do this background and they try to pass off really bad behavior saying it was because he was hurt before. This author put that all to shame. She showed that even at your lowest you can still be a good person. What a great message to get across to people and I am absolutely devastated that the author died and cannot continue to share her amazing talent.
Wow this woman could weave a tale that was so intricate that you thought you knew what was going on but really you just knew the tip of the iceberg. That right there gives this book 5 stars. Beyond that she created a broken man that while he was broken he still had honor, integrity, and a core of strength that was amazing. Typically authors do this background and they try to pass off really bad behavior saying it was because he was hurt before. This author put that all to shame. She showed that even at your lowest you can still be a good person. What a great message to get across to people and I am absolutely devastated that the author died and cannot continue to share her amazing talent.
January 25, 2013
All I can say is O to the M to the G, what a awesome story!!!! Just finshed Razing Kayne, it's 3 am and my eyes are burning, but I couldn't put this damn book down. A full review to follow once I get a few hours of sleep!!!
It's been a few day, But here goes...
This is Julieanne Reeves first Novel, and I must say, it grabs your attention from the very beginning and doesn’t let go until the very end!!!
It’s really hard to write a review for this book without giving away too much, because Razing Kayne is full of Mystery and suspense throughout the whole story.
Ms. Reeves also takes her readers on an emotional journey like a nothing I’ve read before. I think I must have hit everyone of them during this story, I cried, I laughed, I had a few AW moments and I even got pissed off. I’m always impressed by any write who can do that, but even more impressive for a first time author.
You bet I’ll be reading the next book in this AMAZING Series.
It's been a few day, But here goes...
This is Julieanne Reeves first Novel, and I must say, it grabs your attention from the very beginning and doesn’t let go until the very end!!!
It’s really hard to write a review for this book without giving away too much, because Razing Kayne is full of Mystery and suspense throughout the whole story.
Ms. Reeves also takes her readers on an emotional journey like a nothing I’ve read before. I think I must have hit everyone of them during this story, I cried, I laughed, I had a few AW moments and I even got pissed off. I’m always impressed by any write who can do that, but even more impressive for a first time author.
You bet I’ll be reading the next book in this AMAZING Series.
January 3, 2016
☆☆☆☆☆ 5 With My Last Breath Stars ☆☆☆☆☆
"There is a sacredness in tears. They are not the mark of weakness, but of power. They speak more eloquently than ten thousand tongues. They are messengers of overwhelming grief...and unspeakable love."
~~~Washington Irving~~~
After losing his 3 toddler children and wife, by the hands of his wife, in the most devastating of ways, Kayne Dobrescu is barely living.
Trying to survive the devastating loss, Kayne moves on to another town to get away from the accusations that he killed his family.
Making a routine traffic stop, Kayne pulls over the recently widowed Jessica, mother of 4 beautiful adopted children.
His heart is electrified by her smile. There is something special about Jessica and her children. He feels connected to them, especially 2 year old Gracie. Everything about the little angel screams his baby girl Tasha, who's body was never found only be assumed murdered as well.
As Kayne and Jessica embark on a friendship, their lives and secrets begin to unfold and their six degree of separation is unbelievable.
Fighting their feelings for each other from the start, life takes a turn and they are forced to become husband and wife to spare the unity of Jessica ' s family and Gracie.
Their lives are spun into a sea of dark family secrets from both sides. Neither Kayne OR Jessica realize the amount of evil that gas been working to destroy everything they are.
A battle for so many lives unfolds and a true test of love and devotion is catapulted to enormous heights.
"He'd been convinced he'd lost his soul, but she'd given him half of hers. He'd thought his heart was so broken he could never love again, but she'd sewn it back together stitch by precious stitch , and taken it for herself, giving him hers in return. She was his North Star and without her, he'd never be able to find his way home again."
This is one of the most fabulously written stories, full of emotional greatness. Miss Julieanne Reeves wrote one of my top favorite books ever!!!
KAYNE IS AMAZING!!! I♡KAYNE!!!!
On a very sad note: It was announced on the authors page that she passed away on June 10, 2014 at the age of 40.
This saddens me so much.
She is an amazing author that had such a bright future of an amazing series.
Godspeed Miss Reeves xx
BEAUTIFUL ~ BEAUTIFUL
"There is a sacredness in tears. They are not the mark of weakness, but of power. They speak more eloquently than ten thousand tongues. They are messengers of overwhelming grief...and unspeakable love."
~~~Washington Irving~~~
After losing his 3 toddler children and wife, by the hands of his wife, in the most devastating of ways, Kayne Dobrescu is barely living.
Trying to survive the devastating loss, Kayne moves on to another town to get away from the accusations that he killed his family.
Making a routine traffic stop, Kayne pulls over the recently widowed Jessica, mother of 4 beautiful adopted children.
His heart is electrified by her smile. There is something special about Jessica and her children. He feels connected to them, especially 2 year old Gracie. Everything about the little angel screams his baby girl Tasha, who's body was never found only be assumed murdered as well.
As Kayne and Jessica embark on a friendship, their lives and secrets begin to unfold and their six degree of separation is unbelievable.
Fighting their feelings for each other from the start, life takes a turn and they are forced to become husband and wife to spare the unity of Jessica ' s family and Gracie.
Their lives are spun into a sea of dark family secrets from both sides. Neither Kayne OR Jessica realize the amount of evil that gas been working to destroy everything they are.
A battle for so many lives unfolds and a true test of love and devotion is catapulted to enormous heights.
"He'd been convinced he'd lost his soul, but she'd given him half of hers. He'd thought his heart was so broken he could never love again, but she'd sewn it back together stitch by precious stitch , and taken it for herself, giving him hers in return. She was his North Star and without her, he'd never be able to find his way home again."
This is one of the most fabulously written stories, full of emotional greatness. Miss Julieanne Reeves wrote one of my top favorite books ever!!!
KAYNE IS AMAZING!!! I♡KAYNE!!!!
On a very sad note: It was announced on the authors page that she passed away on June 10, 2014 at the age of 40.
This saddens me so much.
She is an amazing author that had such a bright future of an amazing series.
Godspeed Miss Reeves xx
BEAUTIFUL ~ BEAUTIFUL
October 23, 2012
Officer Kayne Dobrescu has endured an unspeakable tragedy. A tragedy no one should have to face; the loss of his wife and children. His journey to find a reason to live after this paralyzing loss leads him to a job in Payson, Arizona where, in a routine traffic stop, he meets Jessica Halstatt. She's fascinating. But a car full of kids makes him wary of pursuing any type of involvement with this woman.
Jess is dealing with her own tragedy; the loss of her husband in a fiery explosion two years earlier. Jarrod Halstatt dies a hero, saving the life of an infant girl in the process. But Jarrod had secrets;secrets that left Jess with a broken heart and doubts about herself, leaving no room for involvement with another man, especially not a gorgeous man like Officer Dobrescu who could have his pick of women.
But, circumstances conspire to throw these two lonely, hurting people together. Circumstances that lead to some of the sweetest, most intimate love scenes I have ever read. The heart, mind, soul and body of these two lovers is laid bare by this brilliant new author. Breathtaking.
But, both Kayne and Jess have unknown events in their pasts. A betrayal by a trusted friend and a decades long blood feud leading up to a mind chilling, heart stopping finale that left me gasping, as the forces that have sought to erase Kayne's very existence collide.
Ms. Reeves is writing a series using her knowledge off 911 dispatching and long standing acquaintance with law enforcement personell. I am already looking forward to her next book as her captivating cast of characters continue Walking The Thin Blue Line.
Jess is dealing with her own tragedy; the loss of her husband in a fiery explosion two years earlier. Jarrod Halstatt dies a hero, saving the life of an infant girl in the process. But Jarrod had secrets;secrets that left Jess with a broken heart and doubts about herself, leaving no room for involvement with another man, especially not a gorgeous man like Officer Dobrescu who could have his pick of women.
But, circumstances conspire to throw these two lonely, hurting people together. Circumstances that lead to some of the sweetest, most intimate love scenes I have ever read. The heart, mind, soul and body of these two lovers is laid bare by this brilliant new author. Breathtaking.
But, both Kayne and Jess have unknown events in their pasts. A betrayal by a trusted friend and a decades long blood feud leading up to a mind chilling, heart stopping finale that left me gasping, as the forces that have sought to erase Kayne's very existence collide.
Ms. Reeves is writing a series using her knowledge off 911 dispatching and long standing acquaintance with law enforcement personell. I am already looking forward to her next book as her captivating cast of characters continue Walking The Thin Blue Line.
May 21, 2019
How do to review a book that was so good it's story moves you to tears?
Kayne loses everything in 1 night and his whole life changes. Little does he know Jess and her world was turned upside down as well on the same night. The mystery and suspense and emotion this book brings out is amazing. It has everything... Instant connection, hot sexy alpha male, mystery, funny moments, tender touches, and secondary characters who you get attached to right off the bat.
I encourage you to pick up this book! As I was finishing it i needed more from this author and when I learned she has passed away before finishing her work I was devastated. So sad that life is so fleeting. Even in that disappointment it's a beautiful thing to know her work lives on and has touched lives.
Grab this book and hold on for a great ride and send some happy thoughts to her family when your finished because this story will blow you away
Kayne loses everything in 1 night and his whole life changes. Little does he know Jess and her world was turned upside down as well on the same night. The mystery and suspense and emotion this book brings out is amazing. It has everything... Instant connection, hot sexy alpha male, mystery, funny moments, tender touches, and secondary characters who you get attached to right off the bat.
I encourage you to pick up this book! As I was finishing it i needed more from this author and when I learned she has passed away before finishing her work I was devastated. So sad that life is so fleeting. Even in that disappointment it's a beautiful thing to know her work lives on and has touched lives.
Grab this book and hold on for a great ride and send some happy thoughts to her family when your finished because this story will blow you away
December 24, 2015
This was a solid four star read for me!
At first I wasn't sure I was going to like this one. Kayne was such an epic asshole douche, and Jess was such a doormat, but 1/3 of the way through things started to take off and I got sucked right in!
There were a couple things that annoyed me, how Kayne didn't seem to love his wife, then he loved her etc. Of course Jess had to get stuck with bad sex and a nasty ex, seems to be par for the course these days! I didn't love that he gave Jess
Those are just little nit picky things though, It saddens me that this author passed because I think she probably had a lot of great stories left to tell. :(
At first I wasn't sure I was going to like this one. Kayne was such an epic asshole douche, and Jess was such a doormat, but 1/3 of the way through things started to take off and I got sucked right in!
There were a couple things that annoyed me, how Kayne didn't seem to love his wife, then he loved her etc. Of course Jess had to get stuck with bad sex and a nasty ex, seems to be par for the course these days! I didn't love that he gave Jess
Those are just little nit picky things though, It saddens me that this author passed because I think she probably had a lot of great stories left to tell. :(
December 11, 2012
Razing Kayne........ By Julieanne Reeves
This novel contains heart stopping fear, sadness beyond description, police,
firefighters, and a beautiful love story.
Kayne Dobrescu State Police officer pulls Jessica Hallstatt over for
speeding in the little town of Payson, Arizona. It turns out to be a
memorable traffic stop for both. Kayne and Jessica are both suffering from
terrible losses in their lives, and have chosen to close their hearts to
protect against further damage. Jessica is a widow, with four adopted
children that are her life now. Kayne is a widower, who has shut down all
his emotions to survive. That is till Jessica, Isabelle, Ash, Madeline, and
the most adorable Gracie speed into his empty life.
The twists and turns of this novel keep your heart racing and begging for
more. The love scenes are frequent, very sexy, and occasionally in a bed!
The side characters are very well written, you find yourself wanting to know
more about them. Except a few of course, who get what they deserve.
I could not put this novel down; my emotions were so wrapped up by the
characters, and the amazing pace of this story. I would recommend this novel
to anyone who enjoys police/firefighter novels. I loved it for the amazing
love between this man and woman, and the family they learned to share. I
have a special place in my heart for Gracie!
This novel was given to me by the author for an honest review
This novel contains heart stopping fear, sadness beyond description, police,
firefighters, and a beautiful love story.
Kayne Dobrescu State Police officer pulls Jessica Hallstatt over for
speeding in the little town of Payson, Arizona. It turns out to be a
memorable traffic stop for both. Kayne and Jessica are both suffering from
terrible losses in their lives, and have chosen to close their hearts to
protect against further damage. Jessica is a widow, with four adopted
children that are her life now. Kayne is a widower, who has shut down all
his emotions to survive. That is till Jessica, Isabelle, Ash, Madeline, and
the most adorable Gracie speed into his empty life.
The twists and turns of this novel keep your heart racing and begging for
more. The love scenes are frequent, very sexy, and occasionally in a bed!
The side characters are very well written, you find yourself wanting to know
more about them. Except a few of course, who get what they deserve.
I could not put this novel down; my emotions were so wrapped up by the
characters, and the amazing pace of this story. I would recommend this novel
to anyone who enjoys police/firefighter novels. I loved it for the amazing
love between this man and woman, and the family they learned to share. I
have a special place in my heart for Gracie!
This novel was given to me by the author for an honest review
December 31, 2015
OMG!! What great fucking book!!
I was hooked from the prologue! It was full action, sweet romance and suspense. It was so unexpected too, when I picked it up I wasnt expecting much but damn! It was awesome! So sorry to hear this author passed away. I think she would have had a fabulous writing career because this was a fucking kick ass debut novel. I was so ready to do the rest of the series when I read up on the authors passing. Don't miss this story my friends it was fan-fucking-tactic!
I was hooked from the prologue! It was full action, sweet romance and suspense. It was so unexpected too, when I picked it up I wasnt expecting much but damn! It was awesome! So sorry to hear this author passed away. I think she would have had a fabulous writing career because this was a fucking kick ass debut novel. I was so ready to do the rest of the series when I read up on the authors passing. Don't miss this story my friends it was fan-fucking-tactic!
October 22, 2012
WOW, Razing Kayne is an exceptional debut novel that is sure to drive you into the depths of your heart. Put your seat belt on because Ms. Reeves beautifully describes the strength that love gives and the agony of love lost. Good luck putting it down once you start, I couldn't. I am enthusiastically hooked on the Walking A Thin Blue Line series.
November 10, 2012
4.5 stars
One little bit of advice. Make sure you have a few free hours to spend reading before picking this one up because once you start it's nearly impossible to pull yourself away from Razing Kayne.
Full review to come...
One little bit of advice. Make sure you have a few free hours to spend reading before picking this one up because once you start it's nearly impossible to pull yourself away from Razing Kayne.
Full review to come...
Want to read
June 23, 2013 hmmm I've heard that this is really emotional and heart breaking with a HEA and that's definitely caught my attention. Adding it to the pile :)
For two years, State Trooper Kayne Dobrescu has wanted only one thing: to understand why his wife inexplicably killed their children and then herself. Memories haunt his days and lay siege to his nights, leaving him questioning his reasons for living.
Jessica Hallstatt became a widow and single mother the night her firefighter husband died in a fiery explosion at an accident scene. While her husband may have died a hero, he left Jessica with deep emotional scars that haven't begun to heal.
When Kayne accepted a transfer to the mountain town of Payson, Arizona, he never expected to meet anyone like Jessica. From the moment he pulled her over for speeding, he was drawn in by her whiskey colored eyes and sassy dimple. But she and her children are a forever type package, and he's vowed never to give anyone the power to destroy him again. Yet fate has other ideas, throwing Kayne and Jessica together in a fight against an unknown enemy to save the life of a child—and hopefully one another.
Warning: Contains graphic language, explicit sex and one very hot man in uniform.
Release Date November 20, 2012 in E-book and Paperback
For two years, State Trooper Kayne Dobrescu has wanted only one thing: to understand why his wife inexplicably killed their children and then herself. Memories haunt his days and lay siege to his nights, leaving him questioning his reasons for living.
Jessica Hallstatt became a widow and single mother the night her firefighter husband died in a fiery explosion at an accident scene. While her husband may have died a hero, he left Jessica with deep emotional scars that haven't begun to heal.
When Kayne accepted a transfer to the mountain town of Payson, Arizona, he never expected to meet anyone like Jessica. From the moment he pulled her over for speeding, he was drawn in by her whiskey colored eyes and sassy dimple. But she and her children are a forever type package, and he's vowed never to give anyone the power to destroy him again. Yet fate has other ideas, throwing Kayne and Jessica together in a fight against an unknown enemy to save the life of a child—and hopefully one another.
Warning: Contains graphic language, explicit sex and one very hot man in uniform.
Release Date November 20, 2012 in E-book and Paperback
May 31, 2013
The first book in the Walking a Thin Blue Line series by Julieanna Reeves. Kayne Dobrescu comes home after a long shift at work and finds two of his children dead, the third missing and as he attempts to revive his children, his wife grabs his gun and kills herself. Wow! Well, it's two years later and Kayne has transferred to a small town named Payson, Arizona. It is here he pulls over Jessica Hallstatt for speeding. Jessica has her own demons. Her husband was killed while rescuing a baby two years before and is doing her best to be a good mother to her four adopted children.
Quite the roller coaster ride! Two tortured souls who needed each other bad. While the story wasn't without flaws, it was definitely gripping and intense. There was a great balance in the romance and suspense elements and the secondary characters really added to the enjoyment of the book. The main characters were people you really wanted to root for and see make it to their HEA.
Quite the roller coaster ride! Two tortured souls who needed each other bad. While the story wasn't without flaws, it was definitely gripping and intense. There was a great balance in the romance and suspense elements and the secondary characters really added to the enjoyment of the book. The main characters were people you really wanted to root for and see make it to their HEA.
January 13, 2016
This was such a heartwarming romance. Here's my breakdown:
The pros:
* I fell in love with each and every character
* I wasn’t expecting the sex to be so intense in this read - it packed some serious steam - A good 8/10 on in that department.
* I liked the element of suspense added to this book - it was much more than a simple romantic read
The cons:
* The plot was very unrealistic - so far-fetched it was absurd at times. That being said, I still really liked this book even though it quite improbable.
* There were a few times that the hero said some really hurtful things and I just felt the heroine forgave him too easily - he did always redeem himself though
Overall, this was a really good book that I thoroughly enjoyed. I'll definitely check out more of this writers work.
The pros:
* I fell in love with each and every character
* I wasn’t expecting the sex to be so intense in this read - it packed some serious steam - A good 8/10 on in that department.
* I liked the element of suspense added to this book - it was much more than a simple romantic read
The cons:
* The plot was very unrealistic - so far-fetched it was absurd at times. That being said, I still really liked this book even though it quite improbable.
* There were a few times that the hero said some really hurtful things and I just felt the heroine forgave him too easily - he did always redeem himself though
Overall, this was a really good book that I thoroughly enjoyed. I'll definitely check out more of this writers work.
January 12, 2013
Review also posted at Under The Covers Book Blog
Razing Kane is an IMPRESSIVE DEBUT NOVEL that had me turn pages non-stop. It is an engaging story that will make a mark on your reading experience. This story is heart breaking, EMOTIONALLY CHARGED and sometimes draining but most of all, it’s full of HOPE and SECOND CHANCES. Ms. Reeves has definitely captured my heart.
State Trooper Kayne Dobrescu is a believable alpha male of the twentieth century complete with a tortured past. He is every bit jaded but deep down he is sweet, loving, confident, over bearing, over protective, and SEXY as hell. His story UTTERLY broke my heart. And the same goes for Jessica Halstatt. She is selfless, emotionally strong, inspiring and I AM HUMBLED by her character.
Kayne and Jessica are both victims of their past trying to survive the best way can. It is true fate that this two lost souls cross paths and given another chance at life. However, Ms. Reeves did not make it that easy as their paths will cross more ways then they can imagine.
I cannot speak highly enough about this book that had me crying at five percent. The tragic but realistic scenes were just so heart breaking. The intrigue, betrayal, heartaches, happiness, lust and love in this one novel was delivered with skill in a full flowing story. With experience being a 911 dispatcher, Ms Reeves brings REALISM to this book and more then that, AWARENESS.
If you haven’t already read this book, I strongly suggest you do. Achingly Uplifting, Razing Kayne will have you glued to the pages.I promise you will not be disappointed.
Now, every time I hear this song, all I think of is Kayne, Jessica and Ms. Reeves. I just thought to include it with my review. Yeah, this book truly made an impact on me.
Dark Side VIdeo
*Review copy provided by author
Razing Kane is an IMPRESSIVE DEBUT NOVEL that had me turn pages non-stop. It is an engaging story that will make a mark on your reading experience. This story is heart breaking, EMOTIONALLY CHARGED and sometimes draining but most of all, it’s full of HOPE and SECOND CHANCES. Ms. Reeves has definitely captured my heart.
State Trooper Kayne Dobrescu is a believable alpha male of the twentieth century complete with a tortured past. He is every bit jaded but deep down he is sweet, loving, confident, over bearing, over protective, and SEXY as hell. His story UTTERLY broke my heart. And the same goes for Jessica Halstatt. She is selfless, emotionally strong, inspiring and I AM HUMBLED by her character.
Kayne and Jessica are both victims of their past trying to survive the best way can. It is true fate that this two lost souls cross paths and given another chance at life. However, Ms. Reeves did not make it that easy as their paths will cross more ways then they can imagine.
I cannot speak highly enough about this book that had me crying at five percent. The tragic but realistic scenes were just so heart breaking. The intrigue, betrayal, heartaches, happiness, lust and love in this one novel was delivered with skill in a full flowing story. With experience being a 911 dispatcher, Ms Reeves brings REALISM to this book and more then that, AWARENESS.
If you haven’t already read this book, I strongly suggest you do. Achingly Uplifting, Razing Kayne will have you glued to the pages.I promise you will not be disappointed.
Now, every time I hear this song, all I think of is Kayne, Jessica and Ms. Reeves. I just thought to include it with my review. Yeah, this book truly made an impact on me.
Dark Side VIdeo
*Review copy provided by author
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