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Storm #1
After the Storm
**THIS BOOK CONTAINS MATURE CONTENT - NOT INTENDED FOR PEOPLE UNDER THE AGE OF 18**
Alexia “Lexi” Hanson moved across the country to rebuild her life after the attack that almost destroyed her. She enjoys the simple things in her beach cottage. Life is finally complete.
Noah Matthews is Rock & Roll’s hottest star and on top of the world. After years without a break he finds the solitude he craves at his beach house. Enjoying his early morning coffee, Noah is surprised to see his neighbor sneak into his garden and crawl around.
They never saw that fateful morning coming. Someone was watching them. Someone who thought Lexi belonged to him and would stop at nothing to have her.
Lives are changed forever when they meet amongst the blooms in his garden. Even when things seem darkest, there is always light After the Storm.
"A suspenseful, page turning twist on the typical boy meets girl" - Carey Heywood - Author
"The perfect combination of funny, creepy and hot. A unique story that will have you begging for more." - Evelyne Stone - Author
Book Two - Eye of the Storm - Available Now
Book Three - Caught in the Storm - Available Friday June 13th 2014
Alexia “Lexi” Hanson moved across the country to rebuild her life after the attack that almost destroyed her. She enjoys the simple things in her beach cottage. Life is finally complete.
Noah Matthews is Rock & Roll’s hottest star and on top of the world. After years without a break he finds the solitude he craves at his beach house. Enjoying his early morning coffee, Noah is surprised to see his neighbor sneak into his garden and crawl around.
They never saw that fateful morning coming. Someone was watching them. Someone who thought Lexi belonged to him and would stop at nothing to have her.
Lives are changed forever when they meet amongst the blooms in his garden. Even when things seem darkest, there is always light After the Storm.
"A suspenseful, page turning twist on the typical boy meets girl" - Carey Heywood - Author
"The perfect combination of funny, creepy and hot. A unique story that will have you begging for more." - Evelyne Stone - Author
Book Two - Eye of the Storm - Available Now
Book Three - Caught in the Storm - Available Friday June 13th 2014
264 pages, Paperback
First published October 24, 2013
179 people are currently reading
2141 people want to read
About the author
M. Stratton
30 books219 followersM. Stratton is an International Amazon bestselling author in the romantic suspense and mystery suspense categories for her Storm Series and Bender. She lives in Arizona, which is a big change from where she grew up north of Chicago, Illinois. As an only child she learned to tell herself stories to make the long winters go by quicker while dreaming of summer vacations. Now as an adult she still makes up stories to pass the time, but now she writes them down to share with other people.
Stratton is a self-proclaimed dork who loves to make people laugh. Her inner rock star is always on stage performing to a sold out crowd, but she quiet and shy on the outside. She spends her days plotting new ways to surprise her readers.
Website: www.mstrattonauthor.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MLStrattonAu...
Twitter: https://twitter.com/MStratton70
Instagram: https://instagram.com/m.stratton/
Stratton is a self-proclaimed dork who loves to make people laugh. Her inner rock star is always on stage performing to a sold out crowd, but she quiet and shy on the outside. She spends her days plotting new ways to surprise her readers.
Website: www.mstrattonauthor.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MLStrattonAu...
Twitter: https://twitter.com/MStratton70
Instagram: https://instagram.com/m.stratton/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 148 reviews
January 23, 2014
Synopses
"Alexia “Lexi” Hanson moved across country and rebuilt her life after the attack that could have destroyed her. She enjoys her simple life in the beach cottage. Life was complete in her eyes.
Noah Matthews is Rock & Roll’s hottest star and on top of the world. After years without a break he finds the solitude he craves at his beach house. Enjoying his early morning coffee Noah was surprised to watch his neighbor sneak into his garden and start crawling around.
They never saw what was coming that fateful morning. Someone else was watching them. Someone who thought she belonged to him and would stop at nothing to have her.
Lives are changed forever when they meet amongst the blooms in his garden. Even when things seem darkest, there is always light After the Storm."
"After the Storm" is the debut novel of author M.Stratton, and I ABSOLUTELY LOVED IT!
The author had me engaged from the first page and on the edge of my seat right to the very end!
The writing, characters, and story-line were WONDERFUL!
I really like how this author thinks, and she did a wonderful job of putting her thoughts to paper.
The chemistry between the lead characters (Lexi and Noah) is off the charts, but Lexi has put a huge wall up to protect herself. She hasn't been with anyone since her attack 7 years earlier and has a hard time trusting men and herself. Noah senses that Lexi isn't like the girls he's used to dating. Lexi is a girl he has to handle with care, and he does.
As I mentioned earlier, the suspense in the book is INTENSE!
.. and then the twist at the end
AMAZING!
I highly recommend this story to anyone who is a fan of romantic/suspense/thrillers, and I look forward to reading the next installment in this series
October 29, 2013
So it’s there in the blurb that someone else was watching them. What I didn’t expect was to get a point of view from that someone all throughout the book. It did bother me but not enough reason to stop. When the main characters first met, there was chemistry, but after that, the author proceeded on going through long narration. It was stated that they had dates for the next couple of days or weeks… talking about shortcuts here. So when their next conversation came up, it was kinda weird that they were already so close. As a reader, I felt left out like I’ve just missed reading some pages. I didn’t like the writing style, the chemistry was gone, the conversations were lame… So what’s the reason for me to continue?... None… and about that someone watching them, well, I simply didn't care anymore...
I also have to add that this reminded me a bit of Nicholas Sparks' Safe Haven. I'm no longer a fan of Mr. Sparks but at least Safe Haven was believable.
I also have to add that this reminded me a bit of Nicholas Sparks' Safe Haven. I'm no longer a fan of Mr. Sparks but at least Safe Haven was believable.
Want to read
October 28, 2013 Ooohh I like the sound of this one!
Alexia “Lexi” Hanson moved across country and rebuilt her life after the attack that could have destroyed her. She enjoys her simple life in the beach cottage. Life was complete in her eyes.
Noah Matthews is Rock & Roll’s hottest star and on top of the world. After years without a break he finds the solitude he craves at his beach house. Enjoying his early morning coffee
Noah was surprised to watch his neighbor sneak into his garden and start crawling around.
They never saw what was coming that fateful morning. Someone else was watching them. Someone who thought she belonged to him and would stop at nothing to have her.
Lives are changed forever when they meet amongst the blooms in his garden. Even when things seem darkest, there is always light After the Storm.
Alexia “Lexi” Hanson moved across country and rebuilt her life after the attack that could have destroyed her. She enjoys her simple life in the beach cottage. Life was complete in her eyes.
Noah Matthews is Rock & Roll’s hottest star and on top of the world. After years without a break he finds the solitude he craves at his beach house. Enjoying his early morning coffee
Noah was surprised to watch his neighbor sneak into his garden and start crawling around.
They never saw what was coming that fateful morning. Someone else was watching them. Someone who thought she belonged to him and would stop at nothing to have her.
Lives are changed forever when they meet amongst the blooms in his garden. Even when things seem darkest, there is always light After the Storm.
own-need-to-read
May 27, 2014Kindle Freebie today - thanks for the heads up, Lindsey!! http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00G...
Description...
Book One of The Storm Series
Alexia “Lexi” Hanson moved across the country to rebuild her life after the attack that almost destroyed her. She enjoys the simple things in her beach cottage. Life is finally complete.
Noah Matthews is Rock & Roll’s hottest star and on top of the world. After years without a break he finds the solitude he craves at his beach house. Enjoying his early morning coffee, Noah is surprised to see his neighbor sneak into his garden and crawl around.
They never saw that fateful morning coming. Someone was watching them. Someone who thought Lexi belonged to him and would stop at nothing to have her.
Lives are changed forever when they meet amongst the blooms in his garden. Even when things seem darkest, there is always light After the Storm.
"A suspenseful, page turning twist on the typical boy meets girl" - Carey Heywood - Author
"The perfect combination of funny, creepy and hot. A unique story that will have you begging for more." - Evelyne Stone - Author
Book Two - Eye of the Storm - Available Now
Book Three - Caught in the Storm - Available Friday June 13th 2014
May 18, 2014
M. Stratton was a new to me author. I’ve heard a lot about her books, and her Storm Series sounded pretty interesting to me even though it’s not my normally preferred genre. I saw her promo pics on social media and even the promo made me ask myself just what was going on in her books, so I decided to try them out.
I’m very glad I read After the Storm. It’s about this chick, Alexia. She lives on her own and seems to be pretty content just being on her own and doing her own thing. She’s got a pretty nasty history thanks to a psychopath, but seems to be adjusting ok. Rock star Noah Matthews finally makes an appearance in his house next door that has been taken care of by an older couple for the past few years, so Lexi doesn’t realize who really owns the house next door until Noah decides to take a vacation to his beach house. The way they meet is actually pretty cute so I’m not going to spoil that for you here.
After the Storm follows the progression of Lexi and Noah’s “relationship” as well as gives us glimpses into Lexi’s past experiences with a stalker. Lexi does tell Noah about her experience and the ultimate arrest and imprisonment of the psychopath. One of the things that made me leery of reading this book was that I’m not comfortable with the stalker/violence/rape theme I thought would be prevalent in the story. Just so you know, while the story IS told, the author does NOT go into graphic detail. You get the gist of what happened to Lexi without the gory details. So please don’t let it keep you from reading a great book like I did for far too long.
The dynamic between Noah and Lexi was fun. They each had a great sense of humor and real personality that despite my initial dislike for Noah caused me to like him anyway. I really hoped that Lexi could open up to him enough for them to have a happy ending. I loved their chemistry and seriously couldn’t wait for them to get it on.
I wasn’t a huge fan of Noah to start with. He seemed very forward and too sure of himself. Noah lived the “typical” rock star life style. He came to his beach house to get away from everything, which I thought was cool.
Lexi was a complicated character for me. I loved her personality and sense of humor. I loved her positivity. I loved the fact that she was able to survive her horrifying ordeal with a killer psychopath, and appeared to come out of it with seemingly minimal psychological damage. She was able to move on with her life and not let the incident ruin her life. I think that’s awesome. Where my problem lies is in the idea that she seems to be much too trusting and nonchalant about everything. Weird things start to happen that I would think would alert her to something creepy going on, but she doesn’t react the way I think she should. If I had the experience that she had, I think I would be calling the cops at every single thing that happened that she just blew off.
I have had to remind myself that I have NOT been in Lexi’s shoes. I have never lived through an encounter even similar to hers, so there is really no way for me to say for sure what I would do in her situation. This is one of those things that until you are in that situation, you really can’t say how you would respond, and since everyone is different, we all have different personalities and what works for one person may not work for another. So my assumptions that how she was responding to these creepy things happening to her was wrong, I needed to remember that they were wrong for ME, not necessarily for anyone else. I did have to question Noah’s lack of response to certain things, but hey, no one is perfect, even fictional hot guys.
The highlight of this book, for me, was the “Troublesome Trio”. They are 3 elderly friends of Alexia’s now deceased grandmother and they are the horniest old ladies in the history of horny old ladies. They were hilarious. The torture they put their poor repair guys through, oh my god, I was dying.
And damn can Stratton write a bad guy! She really pulls out the crazy for this guy!
After the Storm has a lot to offer its reader. It’s multifaceted in the sense that there is love, humor, action, creepiness, and thrilling moments where you have no idea which way things are about to go. I knew something was up, but I really didn’t expect what actually happened in the end! Stratton really keeps the readers on their toes with her storytelling and I look forward to reading the rest of this series.
I would recommend this book to anyone who likes a good thriller. The romance isn’t sappy and overbearing. You can see the characters developing friendship with the hopes of something more, but are never guaranteed things would work out.
I’m very glad I read After the Storm. It’s about this chick, Alexia. She lives on her own and seems to be pretty content just being on her own and doing her own thing. She’s got a pretty nasty history thanks to a psychopath, but seems to be adjusting ok. Rock star Noah Matthews finally makes an appearance in his house next door that has been taken care of by an older couple for the past few years, so Lexi doesn’t realize who really owns the house next door until Noah decides to take a vacation to his beach house. The way they meet is actually pretty cute so I’m not going to spoil that for you here.
After the Storm follows the progression of Lexi and Noah’s “relationship” as well as gives us glimpses into Lexi’s past experiences with a stalker. Lexi does tell Noah about her experience and the ultimate arrest and imprisonment of the psychopath. One of the things that made me leery of reading this book was that I’m not comfortable with the stalker/violence/rape theme I thought would be prevalent in the story. Just so you know, while the story IS told, the author does NOT go into graphic detail. You get the gist of what happened to Lexi without the gory details. So please don’t let it keep you from reading a great book like I did for far too long.
The dynamic between Noah and Lexi was fun. They each had a great sense of humor and real personality that despite my initial dislike for Noah caused me to like him anyway. I really hoped that Lexi could open up to him enough for them to have a happy ending. I loved their chemistry and seriously couldn’t wait for them to get it on.
I wasn’t a huge fan of Noah to start with. He seemed very forward and too sure of himself. Noah lived the “typical” rock star life style. He came to his beach house to get away from everything, which I thought was cool.
Lexi was a complicated character for me. I loved her personality and sense of humor. I loved her positivity. I loved the fact that she was able to survive her horrifying ordeal with a killer psychopath, and appeared to come out of it with seemingly minimal psychological damage. She was able to move on with her life and not let the incident ruin her life. I think that’s awesome. Where my problem lies is in the idea that she seems to be much too trusting and nonchalant about everything. Weird things start to happen that I would think would alert her to something creepy going on, but she doesn’t react the way I think she should. If I had the experience that she had, I think I would be calling the cops at every single thing that happened that she just blew off.
I have had to remind myself that I have NOT been in Lexi’s shoes. I have never lived through an encounter even similar to hers, so there is really no way for me to say for sure what I would do in her situation. This is one of those things that until you are in that situation, you really can’t say how you would respond, and since everyone is different, we all have different personalities and what works for one person may not work for another. So my assumptions that how she was responding to these creepy things happening to her was wrong, I needed to remember that they were wrong for ME, not necessarily for anyone else. I did have to question Noah’s lack of response to certain things, but hey, no one is perfect, even fictional hot guys.
The highlight of this book, for me, was the “Troublesome Trio”. They are 3 elderly friends of Alexia’s now deceased grandmother and they are the horniest old ladies in the history of horny old ladies. They were hilarious. The torture they put their poor repair guys through, oh my god, I was dying.
And damn can Stratton write a bad guy! She really pulls out the crazy for this guy!
After the Storm has a lot to offer its reader. It’s multifaceted in the sense that there is love, humor, action, creepiness, and thrilling moments where you have no idea which way things are about to go. I knew something was up, but I really didn’t expect what actually happened in the end! Stratton really keeps the readers on their toes with her storytelling and I look forward to reading the rest of this series.
I would recommend this book to anyone who likes a good thriller. The romance isn’t sappy and overbearing. You can see the characters developing friendship with the hopes of something more, but are never guaranteed things would work out.
November 5, 2013
WOW and double WOW......just finished this book and there is no way I can wait to write this review. PURE INTENSE BRILLIANCE is what I would say about this book. What starts out as a simple love story between two damaged people turns into a dramatic tale leaving me begging for more and I mean MORE NOW. These characters and even the support characters are so well written, you are instantly drawn to them. I laughed out loud at some of the antics the Trio pulled and melted when Noah would flash his charm. I cheered for Lexi as she tried to reclaim her life and cried when I would see her stumble and fall. These characters are a family who are begging for us the reader to join them .
Lexi is a fighter, a survivor and a broken woman all at the same time. Being attacked, raped and almost murdered years ago, she escapes from California and her family to start over at her Grandma's beach house. Finding comfort and healing in photography she spends her time taking pictures and playing with her dog. She had built walls to protect herself, never really letting go of the shame and guilt of her attack.
Noah, the hot rock star who just wanted a two month vacation at his beach house, away from fans and the demands to constantly be performing, saw Lexi hiding in his garden one morning and decided to investigate this discovery. For him it was love at first sight. Lexi had a pure innocence about her, she was nothing like the groupies he had found and had sex with while on the road. He knew he had to take his mother's advice and treat this one like a gentleman and give her what every woman deserved.........love and respect.
As the story progresses Noah finally shares his past with Lexi and the heart-break that he has endured in life. This gave Lexi the courage to tell Noah about the attack and the damage she has had to live with. Noah went into protective mode instantly while Lexi went into independent survivor mode. I am sure you can see where this was going.......battle of the wills but thank God the heart finally won.
The ending was amazing. During the whole story Lexi thought she knew who had attacked her, he had been sent to prison and was recently released but monitored in his home. There was no way that feeling of being watched, or things missing in her house was reality. She was sure she was just letting her imagination play games with her mind, till that one night when everything exploded. The truth was discovered and she was facing a new demon, one she didn't even know existed. She found out how she was just a pawn in his evil game. She was going to have to live with the fact that her confusion and his lies changed the direction of an innocent man's life forever.
What Noah found that night will forever change his life. His whole world was lying in a pool of blood, gasping for her last breath, while the monster who had invaded her life disappeared. Noah is going to have those images with him forever along with the guilt that he didn't protect Lexi as he promised. Can they both learn to forgive themselves and let the monster take the blame for destroying so many lives?
This story isn't over when you finish this book. It is a cliff hanger for sure and the next book Eye Of The Storm is in the process of being written and released. I know I can hardly wait. After the Storm starts out like a normal love story, man meets woman, they battle their feelings, give into them and just when you get ready to say they live happily ever after, the author pulls the rug out from under you and says "I don't think so". It is a heart racing, breath seeking ending to this book. I highly recommend this to you readers, be ready for Eye of the Storm, I know I WILL be reading and reviewing that one.
Lexi is a fighter, a survivor and a broken woman all at the same time. Being attacked, raped and almost murdered years ago, she escapes from California and her family to start over at her Grandma's beach house. Finding comfort and healing in photography she spends her time taking pictures and playing with her dog. She had built walls to protect herself, never really letting go of the shame and guilt of her attack.
Noah, the hot rock star who just wanted a two month vacation at his beach house, away from fans and the demands to constantly be performing, saw Lexi hiding in his garden one morning and decided to investigate this discovery. For him it was love at first sight. Lexi had a pure innocence about her, she was nothing like the groupies he had found and had sex with while on the road. He knew he had to take his mother's advice and treat this one like a gentleman and give her what every woman deserved.........love and respect.
As the story progresses Noah finally shares his past with Lexi and the heart-break that he has endured in life. This gave Lexi the courage to tell Noah about the attack and the damage she has had to live with. Noah went into protective mode instantly while Lexi went into independent survivor mode. I am sure you can see where this was going.......battle of the wills but thank God the heart finally won.
The ending was amazing. During the whole story Lexi thought she knew who had attacked her, he had been sent to prison and was recently released but monitored in his home. There was no way that feeling of being watched, or things missing in her house was reality. She was sure she was just letting her imagination play games with her mind, till that one night when everything exploded. The truth was discovered and she was facing a new demon, one she didn't even know existed. She found out how she was just a pawn in his evil game. She was going to have to live with the fact that her confusion and his lies changed the direction of an innocent man's life forever.
What Noah found that night will forever change his life. His whole world was lying in a pool of blood, gasping for her last breath, while the monster who had invaded her life disappeared. Noah is going to have those images with him forever along with the guilt that he didn't protect Lexi as he promised. Can they both learn to forgive themselves and let the monster take the blame for destroying so many lives?
This story isn't over when you finish this book. It is a cliff hanger for sure and the next book Eye Of The Storm is in the process of being written and released. I know I can hardly wait. After the Storm starts out like a normal love story, man meets woman, they battle their feelings, give into them and just when you get ready to say they live happily ever after, the author pulls the rug out from under you and says "I don't think so". It is a heart racing, breath seeking ending to this book. I highly recommend this to you readers, be ready for Eye of the Storm, I know I WILL be reading and reviewing that one.
November 2, 2013
This book was so promising- I thought the story was excellent but it was so poorly edited that is was far too distracting- and I'm generally pretty forgiving of the occasional editing slipup. The narration switches tenses going from third to first person mid sentence, the grammatical and spelling errors are atrocious and towards the end it seems as if the author got bored and just ended the story. Although there is an epilogue it doesn't provide much to the story. This would have easily been a 4 star book had it been edited with a little more care. It's very disappointing. The bones of the story are promising but it really lacks the polishing needed to make it a great read.
October 28, 2013
3.5 stars
A little cheesy, a bit predictable, and a bit cliffy.
Solid read but not great.
A little cheesy, a bit predictable, and a bit cliffy.
Solid read but not great.
December 12, 2013
OK where to start? I think this book had a bit of an identity crisis, on the one hand it has potentially a riveting vein with Anthony the serial killer on the loose and completely and utterly possessed with Lexi and then on the other hand we have sweet but feisty Lexi recovering from her trauma at the hands of Anthony falling for her rockstar neighbour and spending a fair bit of time having random dialogue with him - yawn.
Now the parts of the book where Anthony makes an appearance are totally absorbing, riveting and you dare not drag your eyes from the text for fear of missing some of his salaciousness, ew shudder he is so messed up it's riveting reading. Trouble isn't there wasn't anywhere near enough of this element of the book, it was as though Anthony's part was secondary which is such a shame. Considering this should have been a romance thriller, a page turner it sadly isn't.
Lexi although likeable came across far too independant and Noah as hunky as he was, sometimes seemed too wishy washy, he should have 'cavemanned' her sometimes and shot down her independance. Their romance did build but sadly lacked lustre is the best way I can put it.
Then we have Lexi's relationship with the three old ladies. This is where I feel the book didn't mesh with the thrillerish side. The Ladies from the Senior Centre although funny they were also annoying, I felt there was a lot unnecessary banter and stupid sexist actions that any man would have been sent to prison for, but just because they are senior and old they are only gently scolded without any repercussions and pretty much left to carry on harrassing any man within their clutches. These ladies smacked off filler text to buff out the book and were a tad OTT. I would have found them funny if we had only tinsiest snippets of them whereas they take up a lot of air time and I can't honestly understand why. If they were there to lighten the load of the 'bad' bits then it didn't work.
Yes the banter had an appeal (sometimes) but this is where I feel the identity crisis kicks in; did the author want a soft, twee romance with a rockstar who comes across as the imbodiment of a Mills and Boon hero (not one of their modern day ones) or was this meant to be a thrillerish ride with a physco and a devilishly handsome, muscle rippling rockstar rushing to the rescue? Sadly the latter isn't how it I digested it. It was almost as though the author was too scared to take on the sadisticness of Anthony and bring it to the forefront, which is stupid because crikey in places there was some harrowing text about what he was doing which were shockers and fab reading. So why is this such a Jekyl and Hyde story? Readers that like the heart pounding moments, the 'oh my god moments' and the 'holy cow did he really just do that' are going to be left feeling flat like me that there wasn't any where near enough of them.
So I feel that this is the best way to rate this book:
Hero/Heroine - 3 stars. Likeable but also a tad one dimensional and annoying.
Evil Anthony - 5 stars. Jeepers this guy gives you the creeps!
The 3 old Ladies - 2.5 stars. Frustratingly OTT and too much air time.
Dialogue - 2 stars. Stilted and didn't flow. Hard to visualise.
Storyline - 2 stars. A bit blah......
Potential for thrilling storyline - 5 stars! for it's deliverance - 1 star.
If like me you like a 'meatier' read then honestly this won't be a book that floats your boat.
Now the parts of the book where Anthony makes an appearance are totally absorbing, riveting and you dare not drag your eyes from the text for fear of missing some of his salaciousness, ew shudder he is so messed up it's riveting reading. Trouble isn't there wasn't anywhere near enough of this element of the book, it was as though Anthony's part was secondary which is such a shame. Considering this should have been a romance thriller, a page turner it sadly isn't.
Lexi although likeable came across far too independant and Noah as hunky as he was, sometimes seemed too wishy washy, he should have 'cavemanned' her sometimes and shot down her independance. Their romance did build but sadly lacked lustre is the best way I can put it.
Then we have Lexi's relationship with the three old ladies. This is where I feel the book didn't mesh with the thrillerish side. The Ladies from the Senior Centre although funny they were also annoying, I felt there was a lot unnecessary banter and stupid sexist actions that any man would have been sent to prison for, but just because they are senior and old they are only gently scolded without any repercussions and pretty much left to carry on harrassing any man within their clutches. These ladies smacked off filler text to buff out the book and were a tad OTT. I would have found them funny if we had only tinsiest snippets of them whereas they take up a lot of air time and I can't honestly understand why. If they were there to lighten the load of the 'bad' bits then it didn't work.
Yes the banter had an appeal (sometimes) but this is where I feel the identity crisis kicks in; did the author want a soft, twee romance with a rockstar who comes across as the imbodiment of a Mills and Boon hero (not one of their modern day ones) or was this meant to be a thrillerish ride with a physco and a devilishly handsome, muscle rippling rockstar rushing to the rescue? Sadly the latter isn't how it I digested it. It was almost as though the author was too scared to take on the sadisticness of Anthony and bring it to the forefront, which is stupid because crikey in places there was some harrowing text about what he was doing which were shockers and fab reading. So why is this such a Jekyl and Hyde story? Readers that like the heart pounding moments, the 'oh my god moments' and the 'holy cow did he really just do that' are going to be left feeling flat like me that there wasn't any where near enough of them.
So I feel that this is the best way to rate this book:
Hero/Heroine - 3 stars. Likeable but also a tad one dimensional and annoying.
Evil Anthony - 5 stars. Jeepers this guy gives you the creeps!
The 3 old Ladies - 2.5 stars. Frustratingly OTT and too much air time.
Dialogue - 2 stars. Stilted and didn't flow. Hard to visualise.
Storyline - 2 stars. A bit blah......
Potential for thrilling storyline - 5 stars! for it's deliverance - 1 star.
If like me you like a 'meatier' read then honestly this won't be a book that floats your boat.
December 12, 2013
**BETH’S REVIEW**
*3.5 Stars*
In reading the synopsis, this book sounded intriguing and a bit on the darker side, not my normal read but sounded really good and something that I would enjoy. The book is written in the 3rd POV giving you the POV of all the three main characters in the book, Alexia or “Lexi”, Noah and the man that is watching them, Anthony. Upon reading the prologue, I was a bit surprised as it starts off with the POV of Anthony and immediately find out the reason he is watching her, she was the only one that got away and this time he is making he is going to finish what he started.
Lexi is an avid photographer who has moved across the country and is living in her grandmother’s beach house after surviving a brutal attack. Over time she has healed and has learned to take control of her life and no longer live in fear. Along comes Noah, a very sexy rocker that has decided to take a much needed vacation at his beach house that is right next door to Lexi’s. The sparks start to fly immediately but Lexi and her walls keeps him at bay as a friend.
I really loved Lexi’s character, she was so strong. After surviving the brutal attack and live to tell about it, she has slowly healed to become such a strong survivor that took back her life. Although, she has built walls and is careful who she lets in. The more she gets to know Noah and spends time with him, the more she feels at home with him. She begins to open up to tell him about what she has gone through and slowly lets the walls down to let him in. I loved their relationship, they had a connection right from the start but their relationship developed over time and enjoyed how the sexual tension built up.
As their relationship is developing and they are growing closer, strange things start to happen and Lexi is feeling watched. I really enjoyed this part of their story, it was dark at times, and I will say there are parts that you get Anthony’s point of view and it may actually be bothering to some.
There were actually some lighter sides to the book as well, Evelyne, Marie and Leigh, Lexi’s grandmother’s friends are three old ladies that added some funny moments with their antics in chasing after hot young men. I really enjoyed these parts and some truly had me laughing.
*3.5 Stars*
In reading the synopsis, this book sounded intriguing and a bit on the darker side, not my normal read but sounded really good and something that I would enjoy. The book is written in the 3rd POV giving you the POV of all the three main characters in the book, Alexia or “Lexi”, Noah and the man that is watching them, Anthony. Upon reading the prologue, I was a bit surprised as it starts off with the POV of Anthony and immediately find out the reason he is watching her, she was the only one that got away and this time he is making he is going to finish what he started.
Lexi is an avid photographer who has moved across the country and is living in her grandmother’s beach house after surviving a brutal attack. Over time she has healed and has learned to take control of her life and no longer live in fear. Along comes Noah, a very sexy rocker that has decided to take a much needed vacation at his beach house that is right next door to Lexi’s. The sparks start to fly immediately but Lexi and her walls keeps him at bay as a friend.
I really loved Lexi’s character, she was so strong. After surviving the brutal attack and live to tell about it, she has slowly healed to become such a strong survivor that took back her life. Although, she has built walls and is careful who she lets in. The more she gets to know Noah and spends time with him, the more she feels at home with him. She begins to open up to tell him about what she has gone through and slowly lets the walls down to let him in. I loved their relationship, they had a connection right from the start but their relationship developed over time and enjoyed how the sexual tension built up.
As their relationship is developing and they are growing closer, strange things start to happen and Lexi is feeling watched. I really enjoyed this part of their story, it was dark at times, and I will say there are parts that you get Anthony’s point of view and it may actually be bothering to some.
There were actually some lighter sides to the book as well, Evelyne, Marie and Leigh, Lexi’s grandmother’s friends are three old ladies that added some funny moments with their antics in chasing after hot young men. I really enjoyed these parts and some truly had me laughing.
November 1, 2013
I just finished After the Storm and I must say that is was really good. Noah and Alexia (Lexie) are very cute together. Noah, very sexy and sweet plus a rocker couldn't ask for much more!! Lexie, very sweet girl, loyal, couldn't ask for a better girl for Noah. Noah is tired of being a rock star and since he has been doing it for a long time is just really looking for peace and quiet when he stumbles on Lexie. She is living in a cottage next to his house and loves taking pictures so while she is taking pictures of his flowers in his garden, she meets Noah. Noah is instantly smitten. Lexie is too but she has some walls built up and once you find out why, you will understand so she tries to play it off as him flirting, which he is very, very good at and man he had me at............
Lexie, "don't you ever stop"
Noah, "Not if I am breathing. What can I say? Women are beautiful. Your skin is always so soft". Noah ran his hands lights across her cheek. "You all do these mysterious things to try to make yourselves even more beautiful, never realizing to a man, you are more beautiful just the way you are." (SIGH!!!!, Be still my beating heart!) SEXY
There is a mystery to the story that makes this more real. I liked the plot, more so since I haven't read this type of book in awhile that it flowed beautifully for me. Not that there was a shock value since the story is spoken from Noah and Lexie and another but what happens at the end, that shocked me. I didn't see that coming.
The secondary characters were awesome. You will love them. They made me laugh so freaking hard, I was at working when it happened a couple of times that my co-workers were looking at me funny. I was like "What?!!. its funny" LOL
The Trio, Noahs secondary rock star family were written very well. A lot of characters but I could tell who was which and could keep up!
There wasn't anything that I disliked, it was an enjoyable read. You have to get this one, you will not be disappointed.
Story 5
Sex 5
Overall 5
Reviewed by Beggin at Mommys a Book Whore
Lexie, "don't you ever stop"
Noah, "Not if I am breathing. What can I say? Women are beautiful. Your skin is always so soft". Noah ran his hands lights across her cheek. "You all do these mysterious things to try to make yourselves even more beautiful, never realizing to a man, you are more beautiful just the way you are." (SIGH!!!!, Be still my beating heart!) SEXY
There is a mystery to the story that makes this more real. I liked the plot, more so since I haven't read this type of book in awhile that it flowed beautifully for me. Not that there was a shock value since the story is spoken from Noah and Lexie and another but what happens at the end, that shocked me. I didn't see that coming.
The secondary characters were awesome. You will love them. They made me laugh so freaking hard, I was at working when it happened a couple of times that my co-workers were looking at me funny. I was like "What?!!. its funny" LOL
The Trio, Noahs secondary rock star family were written very well. A lot of characters but I could tell who was which and could keep up!
There wasn't anything that I disliked, it was an enjoyable read. You have to get this one, you will not be disappointed.
Story 5
Sex 5
Overall 5
Reviewed by Beggin at Mommys a Book Whore
August 28, 2015
A new-to-me-author and the first book in her "Storm" romantic suspense series. There is a pretty even balance between the romantic relationship and the suspense, which is fairly graphic. I love a good thriller and I'm not offended when the author portrays the bad guy as brutally dark and evil. He is both in this case.
Our hero is a hot rock star taking a break from the challenges of his success. He's thirty-six and a bit more mature and really ready for some changes in his life. I really enjoyed the way his character was written to show both sides to his life. He was truly an easy-to-like hero.
The heroine was likewise a strong and well-developed character. Her life is in turmoil and after spending years trying to return to normal after being attacked and raped. She's just beginning to feel comfortable and safe when there's a shift in the atmosphere and things don't seem as they should. Could her safety be in jeopardy once again?
Although the storyline wasn't written as tightly as I felt it could have been, it had great possibilities. I am definitely going to read the next book in the series in hopes of getting some answers to those dang dangling ends.
Our hero is a hot rock star taking a break from the challenges of his success. He's thirty-six and a bit more mature and really ready for some changes in his life. I really enjoyed the way his character was written to show both sides to his life. He was truly an easy-to-like hero.
The heroine was likewise a strong and well-developed character. Her life is in turmoil and after spending years trying to return to normal after being attacked and raped. She's just beginning to feel comfortable and safe when there's a shift in the atmosphere and things don't seem as they should. Could her safety be in jeopardy once again?
Although the storyline wasn't written as tightly as I felt it could have been, it had great possibilities. I am definitely going to read the next book in the series in hopes of getting some answers to those dang dangling ends.
November 11, 2013
3.5 Stars Spoiler Free Review
***ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review***
In reading the synopsis, this book sounded intriguing and a bit on the darker side, not my normal read but sounded really good and something that I would enjoy. The book is written in the 3rd POV giving you the POV of all the three main characters in the book, Alexia or “Lexi”, Noah and the man that is watching them, Anthony. Upon reading the prologue, I was a bit surprised as it starts off with the POV of Anthony and immediately find out the reason he is watching her, she was the only one that got away and this time he is making he is going to finish what he started.
Lexi is an avid photographer who has moved across the country and is living in her grandmother’s beach house after surviving a brutal attack. Over time she has healed and has learned to take control of her life and no longer live in fear. Along comes Noah, a very sexy rocker that has decided to take a much needed vacation at his beach house that is right next door to Lexi’s. The sparks start to fly immediately but Lexi and her walls keeps him at bay as a friend.
I really loved Lexi’s character, she was so strong. After surviving the brutal attack and live to tell about it, she has slowly healed to become such a strong survivor that took back her life. Although, she has built walls and is careful who she lets in. The more she gets to know Noah and spends time with him, the more she feels at home with him. She begins to open up to tell him about what she has gone through and slowly lets the walls down to let him in. I loved their relationship, they had a connection right from the start but their relationship developed over time and enjoyed how the sexual tension built up.
As their relationship is developing and they are growing closer, strange things start to happen and Lexi is feeling watched. I really enjoyed this part of their story, it was dark at times, and I will say there are parts that you get Anthony’s point of view and it may actually be bothering to some.
There were actually some lighter sides to the book as well, Evelyne, Marie and Leigh, Lexi’s grandmother’s friends are three old ladies that added some funny moments with their antics in chasing after hot young men. I really enjoyed these parts and some truly had me laughing.
I really enjoyed the story and it kept me interested from beginning to end but felt the end was rushed and we were left hanging with things not resolved even though there was an epilogue. There is a second book, Eye of the Storm, which is focused on Lexi’s friend Evie but I am hoping what is left unresolved will be addressed in this book. I also found the number of editing errors happened throughout the book distracting and at times took me out of the story
***ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review***
In reading the synopsis, this book sounded intriguing and a bit on the darker side, not my normal read but sounded really good and something that I would enjoy. The book is written in the 3rd POV giving you the POV of all the three main characters in the book, Alexia or “Lexi”, Noah and the man that is watching them, Anthony. Upon reading the prologue, I was a bit surprised as it starts off with the POV of Anthony and immediately find out the reason he is watching her, she was the only one that got away and this time he is making he is going to finish what he started.
Lexi is an avid photographer who has moved across the country and is living in her grandmother’s beach house after surviving a brutal attack. Over time she has healed and has learned to take control of her life and no longer live in fear. Along comes Noah, a very sexy rocker that has decided to take a much needed vacation at his beach house that is right next door to Lexi’s. The sparks start to fly immediately but Lexi and her walls keeps him at bay as a friend.
I really loved Lexi’s character, she was so strong. After surviving the brutal attack and live to tell about it, she has slowly healed to become such a strong survivor that took back her life. Although, she has built walls and is careful who she lets in. The more she gets to know Noah and spends time with him, the more she feels at home with him. She begins to open up to tell him about what she has gone through and slowly lets the walls down to let him in. I loved their relationship, they had a connection right from the start but their relationship developed over time and enjoyed how the sexual tension built up.
As their relationship is developing and they are growing closer, strange things start to happen and Lexi is feeling watched. I really enjoyed this part of their story, it was dark at times, and I will say there are parts that you get Anthony’s point of view and it may actually be bothering to some.
There were actually some lighter sides to the book as well, Evelyne, Marie and Leigh, Lexi’s grandmother’s friends are three old ladies that added some funny moments with their antics in chasing after hot young men. I really enjoyed these parts and some truly had me laughing.
I really enjoyed the story and it kept me interested from beginning to end but felt the end was rushed and we were left hanging with things not resolved even though there was an epilogue. There is a second book, Eye of the Storm, which is focused on Lexi’s friend Evie but I am hoping what is left unresolved will be addressed in this book. I also found the number of editing errors happened throughout the book distracting and at times took me out of the story
November 3, 2015
I really wasn't expecting this book to turn out the way it did and I was pleasantly surprised with the whole story line.
The prologue.... OMG!.... What a way to start a story! It sent chills up my spine and a complete sense of unease, anxiety and dread in the pit of my stomach.
Alexia “Lexi” Hanson looks like the girl next door, she is strong, independent and a survivor from a brutal attack. She is living in the house that her grandmother left her, doing her photography and volunteering at a seniors centre. One morning whilst taking photos in her neighbours yard, she meets him.....
Noah Matthews is a tattooed rock star. He is confident, cocky, and down right loveable. On vacation at his sea side home from his gruelling schedule, Noah watches a beautiful woman crawling through his garden with a camera. What starts from here is a friendship that slowly develops into a relationship with Noah experiencing feelings for Lexi that he hasn't before. He feels protective of her even when she doesn't fall all over him like other woman normally do and she frustrates him with some of her decisions.
It was a pleasure watching their relationship grow and progress and when Noah reveals his past, it gives Lexi the courage to confide in Noah about the attack.
What I didn't expect from this book was the third POV that started in the prologue and continued through the book. The stalker / attacker's POV while brilliant, seriously creeped me out. It was disgusting and scary the way he watched her, his thoughts of her and the actions he takes. When he described his secret room in the prologue, I was horrified and thought that M. Stratton really did a great job of getting inside this psycho's head.
The 3 ladies from the senior centre provided a much lighter side to the story, even if some of their antics were not what you would expect from elderly woman.
The story ended really well and while there isn't really a cliff hanger in my opinion, there are definitely quite a few things that still need to be answered.
I really enjoyed this book and will look forward to reading the next one in the series
The prologue.... OMG!.... What a way to start a story! It sent chills up my spine and a complete sense of unease, anxiety and dread in the pit of my stomach.
Alexia “Lexi” Hanson looks like the girl next door, she is strong, independent and a survivor from a brutal attack. She is living in the house that her grandmother left her, doing her photography and volunteering at a seniors centre. One morning whilst taking photos in her neighbours yard, she meets him.....
Noah Matthews is a tattooed rock star. He is confident, cocky, and down right loveable. On vacation at his sea side home from his gruelling schedule, Noah watches a beautiful woman crawling through his garden with a camera. What starts from here is a friendship that slowly develops into a relationship with Noah experiencing feelings for Lexi that he hasn't before. He feels protective of her even when she doesn't fall all over him like other woman normally do and she frustrates him with some of her decisions.
It was a pleasure watching their relationship grow and progress and when Noah reveals his past, it gives Lexi the courage to confide in Noah about the attack.
What I didn't expect from this book was the third POV that started in the prologue and continued through the book. The stalker / attacker's POV while brilliant, seriously creeped me out. It was disgusting and scary the way he watched her, his thoughts of her and the actions he takes. When he described his secret room in the prologue, I was horrified and thought that M. Stratton really did a great job of getting inside this psycho's head.
The 3 ladies from the senior centre provided a much lighter side to the story, even if some of their antics were not what you would expect from elderly woman.
The story ended really well and while there isn't really a cliff hanger in my opinion, there are definitely quite a few things that still need to be answered.
I really enjoyed this book and will look forward to reading the next one in the series
August 5, 2014
4 stars
After the Storm was an great read! It had everything I look for in a book suspense, drama, love, laughter, heartache. It was awesome I especially loved the thriller aspect of the book. The characters in this book are absolutely unforgettable. I loved every single one of them!
Lexi is a very independent woman who is trying to live her life after a horrific attack. Noah is asexy rock star who ends up becoming her neighbor when he comes to take a break from the rock star lifestyle. He is thinking that it is finally time to settle down, now that his is the “last man standing” in his band. Lexi isn’t so sure about Noah, but is drawn to him and maybe ready to let someone in.
So when I started reading I was like, oh… Noah and Lexi are going to “fix” each other’s problems and they are going to live happily ever after… WRONG! M. Stratton threw a curve ball in the typical romance and gave us more to the story. I loved the POV of Lexi’s attacker, Anthony… WHAT A PSYCHO! I can’t believe after all the time that passed; he was still after her… ughhh and the things he did, WOW! Calling Captain Crazy Pants….
I can’t forget to mention the three characters of the book that had me busting a gut laughing, Lexi’s grandmother’s friends, The Troublesome Trio, Marie, Leigh, and Evelyn. They are absolutely hilarious. The shenanigans that they pull are awesome. You will love them, they definitely brought the humor to the story.
This story is complex and will keep you intrigued and questioning everything. It was a terrific read and great start to the series; I can’t wait to see what happens in the next installment.
Reviewed by: Tonya Nichols @ Eye Candy Bookstore
After the Storm was an great read! It had everything I look for in a book suspense, drama, love, laughter, heartache. It was awesome I especially loved the thriller aspect of the book. The characters in this book are absolutely unforgettable. I loved every single one of them!
Lexi is a very independent woman who is trying to live her life after a horrific attack. Noah is asexy rock star who ends up becoming her neighbor when he comes to take a break from the rock star lifestyle. He is thinking that it is finally time to settle down, now that his is the “last man standing” in his band. Lexi isn’t so sure about Noah, but is drawn to him and maybe ready to let someone in.
So when I started reading I was like, oh… Noah and Lexi are going to “fix” each other’s problems and they are going to live happily ever after… WRONG! M. Stratton threw a curve ball in the typical romance and gave us more to the story. I loved the POV of Lexi’s attacker, Anthony… WHAT A PSYCHO! I can’t believe after all the time that passed; he was still after her… ughhh and the things he did, WOW! Calling Captain Crazy Pants….
I can’t forget to mention the three characters of the book that had me busting a gut laughing, Lexi’s grandmother’s friends, The Troublesome Trio, Marie, Leigh, and Evelyn. They are absolutely hilarious. The shenanigans that they pull are awesome. You will love them, they definitely brought the humor to the story.
This story is complex and will keep you intrigued and questioning everything. It was a terrific read and great start to the series; I can’t wait to see what happens in the next installment.
Reviewed by: Tonya Nichols @ Eye Candy Bookstore
November 7, 2013
What can I say about this book? It was a wonderful love story. The character development drew you in from the beginning. I loved the way the relationship between Lexi and Noah grew and developed. I felt it grow in my heart. Noah would do anything for Lexi, she just had to be willing to let him in. It wasn't all sex, which was a nice change. There were some sex scenes, but not until the foundation of a long term relationship was developed. It just fit well with the story.
There were three old ladies at the senior center where Lexi volunteered that were hysterical. The things that came out of their mouths and their antics were completely unexpected. I think they were worse than a bunch of dirty old men. Never knowing what they were going to do next kept me reading for more.
The first chapter threw me off. I hadn't read the synopsis in a while, and didn't expect the Prologue. It was told from the point of view of the guy watching Lexi Once I started the first chapter, I was really confused. But trust me, it comes back, and boy does it. It took a while (which I appreciated because I was too wrapped up in the Lexi/Noah relationship part of the book to want something to overshadow that).
Overall, it was a great book. It ends with a HEA (YEAH!) for Lexi and Noah. There are 2 more books planned in the series, but focusing on different characters. My ARC contained the Prologue and first chapter of the next book. I can't wait to read more of that story.
I was provided an ARC in return for an honest review as part of a blog tour.
There were three old ladies at the senior center where Lexi volunteered that were hysterical. The things that came out of their mouths and their antics were completely unexpected. I think they were worse than a bunch of dirty old men. Never knowing what they were going to do next kept me reading for more.
The first chapter threw me off. I hadn't read the synopsis in a while, and didn't expect the Prologue. It was told from the point of view of the guy watching Lexi Once I started the first chapter, I was really confused. But trust me, it comes back, and boy does it. It took a while (which I appreciated because I was too wrapped up in the Lexi/Noah relationship part of the book to want something to overshadow that).
Overall, it was a great book. It ends with a HEA (YEAH!) for Lexi and Noah. There are 2 more books planned in the series, but focusing on different characters. My ARC contained the Prologue and first chapter of the next book. I can't wait to read more of that story.
I was provided an ARC in return for an honest review as part of a blog tour.
November 6, 2013
From the very beginning of this story the hairs on my arms were standing straight up. We start off in the mind of a killer and know that he is going after the one girl that got away…..
I loved Alexia aka Lexi and Noah’s interactions. She is living in her grandmother’s beach house right beside of Noah’s home. Noah is a rock star and comes across really strong at first because he is attracted to Lexi. Over time though the feelings grow deeper and it isn’t meaningless flirting. He becomes protective of her and wants to prove himself to her. Although she doesn’t always make the best decisions (which frustrates him) overall her character is really enjoyable.
“Alexia, you should see how beautiful you look with the fireworks going off behind you. I want to remember this moment, for the rest of my life.”
The three ladies that helped brought humor to the story was the “troublesome trio” from the Senior Center. I loved to read the parts about them or hear their stories from the past… those ladies were a HOOT!
Of course during all this romance and laughter you have a psycho lurking around in the background that gets off on abusing and killing women. He finds it arousing. It absolutely disgusted me to know end and it’s sad that they are probably people out in the world who would find pleasure from that.
The story takes a twist at the end with a confession I was not expecting… and there will be at least one more book, Eye of the Storm.
I loved Alexia aka Lexi and Noah’s interactions. She is living in her grandmother’s beach house right beside of Noah’s home. Noah is a rock star and comes across really strong at first because he is attracted to Lexi. Over time though the feelings grow deeper and it isn’t meaningless flirting. He becomes protective of her and wants to prove himself to her. Although she doesn’t always make the best decisions (which frustrates him) overall her character is really enjoyable.
“Alexia, you should see how beautiful you look with the fireworks going off behind you. I want to remember this moment, for the rest of my life.”
The three ladies that helped brought humor to the story was the “troublesome trio” from the Senior Center. I loved to read the parts about them or hear their stories from the past… those ladies were a HOOT!
Of course during all this romance and laughter you have a psycho lurking around in the background that gets off on abusing and killing women. He finds it arousing. It absolutely disgusted me to know end and it’s sad that they are probably people out in the world who would find pleasure from that.
The story takes a twist at the end with a confession I was not expecting… and there will be at least one more book, Eye of the Storm.
November 4, 2013
I thought this was a great story……Lexi moves to her Grandmother's beach cottage in Massachusettes to rebuild her life after a horrible ordeal. Noah is her neighbor, a rockstar taking a break from touring and the rock star life. They met one day while she is crawling around in his garden taking pictures of flowers. Instant chemistry. He wants to pursue something with her but she is resistant, not wanting to be just a fling for the rock star. Little do they know the evil from Lexi's past is watching them and is not happy that "his" woman is giving herself to another man.
Noah is gorgeous, sweet and VERY patient and persistent. Lexi is also sweet but very cautious after what she went through years before. They are very attracted to each other and I wanted to yell through my kindle for her to just go for it!!! They had some great make-out sessions but there was not a lot of steaminess. The stalker aspect of this story was both creepy and disturbing. We got a very detailed image of what was going through his sick mind as he stalked Lexi. I loved the Troublesome Trio, the 3 best friends of Lexi's Grandmother. They gave some much needed comic relief with their antics.
This is part 1 of a series. We learn in the epilogue wether or not Lexi and Noah get their HEA, but there are some loose ends that need to be ties up. Overall a good read.
3.5 Stars
Noah is gorgeous, sweet and VERY patient and persistent. Lexi is also sweet but very cautious after what she went through years before. They are very attracted to each other and I wanted to yell through my kindle for her to just go for it!!! They had some great make-out sessions but there was not a lot of steaminess. The stalker aspect of this story was both creepy and disturbing. We got a very detailed image of what was going through his sick mind as he stalked Lexi. I loved the Troublesome Trio, the 3 best friends of Lexi's Grandmother. They gave some much needed comic relief with their antics.
This is part 1 of a series. We learn in the epilogue wether or not Lexi and Noah get their HEA, but there are some loose ends that need to be ties up. Overall a good read.
3.5 Stars
November 5, 2013
4 stars of amazing!! Alexia is a lost soul who finally has learned to heal and start her life over after being tortured and raped. Lexi finds peace and safety in the beach house and finally feels like she has control of her life. Till Noah,the sexy rockstar, appears next door. Their connection is quick and undeniable but Lexi cant bring her self to let him in her safe life or can she? Loved loved this book!! Love the three little old ladies, they were hilarious! I hope I'm half as fun as they are. Noah..... talk about Swoon worthy how can you not fall in love with this sexy sweet talker..This book had me laughing, crying, scared and at the end of my seat dying to see what happens. This book is a perfect mixture of love, suspense and mystery. I did not know this book was gonna have me scared to leave my bed lol talk about a creeper, Anthony definitely scared the crap out of me. Once I started I could not stop. After the storm pulls you in and causes a storm with your emotions!! I can't wait to see what M.Stratton has in store for us next and what trouble the trio gets into.. ~Raquel~
April 13, 2014
**Received a complimentary copy of this book from the author for my honest review.
I ate this story up in 1 day!!!! I was sucked in from the very beginning..
"He walked out into the hot summer air & breathed freely. His shoes crunched across the gravel in the parking lot and he thought of her. It's all her fault I have lost these past 5 years of my life. She took his freedom away. His rage built with every step he took as he approached the cab that was waiting for him. He hated these disgusting things but he did not want anyone to know he was back"
Ok, this book had me at "It's all her fault I have lost these past 5 years of my life"! You get a hot bad boy rocker, Noah Matthews, a very reserved Alexia "Lexi" Hanson who ran from something in her past and a stalker! Great trifecta! But then you add in 4 "Golden Girls", who are constantly causing trouble. I haven't laughed outwardly since my last Janet Evanovich, Stephanie Plum series!!! Can't wait for book 2!!!! Great Job, Michele Stratton!
I ate this story up in 1 day!!!! I was sucked in from the very beginning..
"He walked out into the hot summer air & breathed freely. His shoes crunched across the gravel in the parking lot and he thought of her. It's all her fault I have lost these past 5 years of my life. She took his freedom away. His rage built with every step he took as he approached the cab that was waiting for him. He hated these disgusting things but he did not want anyone to know he was back"
Ok, this book had me at "It's all her fault I have lost these past 5 years of my life"! You get a hot bad boy rocker, Noah Matthews, a very reserved Alexia "Lexi" Hanson who ran from something in her past and a stalker! Great trifecta! But then you add in 4 "Golden Girls", who are constantly causing trouble. I haven't laughed outwardly since my last Janet Evanovich, Stephanie Plum series!!! Can't wait for book 2!!!! Great Job, Michele Stratton!
June 23, 2015
This book was just a mind blowing book. Funny as hell but sick as shit.
Lexi went thru some shit in her last relationship. After moving into her late grandmothers beach home, she starts her new life of healing. She still has her bff back home, but has the 3 crazy hags that were her grandmother's bff that are more crazier than a group of sorority sisters.
Noah is a rock star on vacation that happens to have a vacation house next door to Lexi. He is a smooth talker. And he is smitten by Lexi. Even though, he flirts constantly and talks dirty to her, he is a real good gentleman.
When Lexi realizes her worst nightmare may be coming true, Noah is there for her. She is stubborn but, lets him help. But, almost ruins it because of her Independence and insecurities.
I loved the 3 old crazy pussycat hags. They had me rolling. The bickering between Lexi and Noah was awesome. The whole Craziness of Anthony, was nauseating.
Great Book that is unlike any book!
Lexi went thru some shit in her last relationship. After moving into her late grandmothers beach home, she starts her new life of healing. She still has her bff back home, but has the 3 crazy hags that were her grandmother's bff that are more crazier than a group of sorority sisters.
Noah is a rock star on vacation that happens to have a vacation house next door to Lexi. He is a smooth talker. And he is smitten by Lexi. Even though, he flirts constantly and talks dirty to her, he is a real good gentleman.
When Lexi realizes her worst nightmare may be coming true, Noah is there for her. She is stubborn but, lets him help. But, almost ruins it because of her Independence and insecurities.
I loved the 3 old crazy pussycat hags. They had me rolling. The bickering between Lexi and Noah was awesome. The whole Craziness of Anthony, was nauseating.
Great Book that is unlike any book!
October 28, 2013
I loved this book. Rockstar Noah has been on the road for years. He decides he needs a vacation, so he heads out to his Beach House for some relaxation and peace and quit. Lexi moved from LA to her Grandmothers Beach House after she was beaten and raped. Here she had her peace and able to rebuild her life. She has Pepper (her dog) and her ( her grandmothers friends ) threebLder Ladies Naughtier then the Golden Girls, life was good. Noah meets Lexi one morning when he sees her crawling around his garden. They become friends but sometimes what you think you dont want turns out to be what you want and need. But Lexi doesn't know her trouble is about to find her to find her again. Can Lexi survive and stay out of her attacker grip again. Will Noah stay by her and protect her or will he think she has to much baggage. This is a great book. can not wait for book 2.
December 6, 2013
What a great debut novel! I seriously wanted to scream at her creeper... he just bugged me so bad!! LOL Which I believe was the idea... what's a creeper if he isn't creeping you out?? Noah is amazingly patient with Lexi and while she was a bit too clingy to her need for independence even when scared, I really wanted to protect her too. I found a couple of typos, but they were in the middle of the "stressful" scenes and even I can't type for diddly when I'm writing scenes like that. I gave it a four rather than a five only because every once in a while, usually at chapter changes, the story would jump and I'd have to stop and figure out what was going on and how much time had passed. But all in all... a very good read. Can't wait for the next one.
November 3, 2013
This book actually reminded me a lot of the premise in Come Away With Me in Seattle by Kristen Proby (with a dash of Rock With Me, by the same author) plus the added stalker/crime stuff that I've read in a couple of other books recently. In other words, nothing really original. The secondary storyline with the old ladies didn't really fit in, and I glazed over it - being sort of annoyed that it was distracting me from the main storyline.
Having said all that, I still enjoyed the book. I loved the characters and they seemed to really gel. I am not sure I'll continue with the series. The crime element does have things left to reveal, but I am not sure I really care all that much.
Having said all that, I still enjoyed the book. I loved the characters and they seemed to really gel. I am not sure I'll continue with the series. The crime element does have things left to reveal, but I am not sure I really care all that much.
October 30, 2013
ok i have to admit i liked this book, it had a bit of everything, rock star, girl with past issues,she wants to take things slow,, lol and in the middle of all this we have mystery surrounding her past and its a bit of a thriller, trying not to give to much away. The down side to the book,, its not over:(, this was book 1 now we have to wait for next book to find out more.. i really wish authors would do more to let u know its not a complete story, i prefer to wait till all books are out to read. but overall a good story, with lots of funny things added in.. loved the old ladies at the senior center:)
November 7, 2013
Action-packed, yet character-driven romantic-suspense, that doesn't slow down, even long after the last page..
I was thoroughly absorbed in this breath-taking novel!! M. Stratton gives us an action-packed romantic-suspense, which kept me spellbound from the beginning, & has kept me intrigued long after the last page!! I am very impressed by the depth of each of her characters & look forward to reading the sequel Soon!!
I was thoroughly absorbed in this breath-taking novel!! M. Stratton gives us an action-packed romantic-suspense, which kept me spellbound from the beginning, & has kept me intrigued long after the last page!! I am very impressed by the depth of each of her characters & look forward to reading the sequel Soon!!
September 12, 2016
I savored this book over the course of about three days. I didn't want it to end! I loved Noah and I loved the old ladies!!! M. Stratton is a creeper genius! Noah and Lexi's relationship was very sweet and I loved how protective he was of her. They had some hysterical banter too. :)
I can't wait for book 2; I'm gonna be all over that one.
I can't wait for book 2; I'm gonna be all over that one.
October 30, 2013
This was a great book! It lacked some detail & seemed to rush through a few scenes but other than that, great book!
Should also add that I loved the slow build of the relationship and that they didn't just fall into bed together. Also, I loved the drawn out suspense. I liked the POV of the villain and getting to hear his creepy thoughts & plans...nice touch!
Should also add that I loved the slow build of the relationship and that they didn't just fall into bed together. Also, I loved the drawn out suspense. I liked the POV of the villain and getting to hear his creepy thoughts & plans...nice touch!
October 26, 2013
I was lucky to be a beta for the author and I begged for more pages! This book is the perfect combination of funny, sexy and creepy! M Stratton writes a fabulous creeper. The old ladies are hilarious and will make you laugh out loud. I can not wait for the second book!
February 17, 2016
2.5 This was a struggle for me to get into and honestly it was one of those books that I would read parts that caught my attention and the skim. I just didn't connect with this book or the characters. Lexi was annoying. I wont be continuing with this series. Not the book for me.
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