Deep in the bayou, a strange and beautiful world of merfolk exists...
Mermaid Jet Borsage never fit in with her own kind. Her dark hair and eyes set her apart from the other merfolk. Which was why she fell for the wrong man, and why she is still paying the price. One that has made her unwilling to trust any man. Until she meets Landry Fields...
Agent Landry Fields is investigating Jet's former boyfriend, but he knows Jet is hiding something, as well. At first he believed the beauty was involved in her ex-boyfriend's dangerous undersea excavations. But when he realizes he is falling for a real-live mermaid, Landry's by-the-book beliefs are rocked. Now can he save Jet and her clan from modern-day pirates to claim a future with the feisty beauty?
Debbie Herbert, a USA Today and Publisher's Weekly bestselling writer, pens Psychological Suspense, romantic suspense and paranormal romance novels. She’s always been fascinated by magic, romance and Gothic stories.
Married and living in Alabama, she roots for the Crimson Tide football team. When not working on her upcoming books, Debbie enjoys recumbent bicycling and jet skiing with her husband.
2017 RITA® Finalist for Paranormal Romance in the national contest sponsored by the Romance Writers of America® Debbie has a degree in English (Berry College, GA) and a master’s in Library Studies (University of Alabama).
Enjoyed even more than the first. Jet Borsage is more of a wild child than her cousin Shelly, who we met in book one, Siren's Secret. The sins of her past have come back to haunt her. FBI agent Landry Fields' past has come back to haunt him in an entirely different, and far more literal, manner.
This story brings together two very different personalities that you aren't sure can find a way to connect. Nothing a little magic and mayhem can't cure. I loved the little wildlife tidbits here and there that served as fun little side characters. There were numerous turns of phrase and analogies that I found to be inspired writing, things that beautifully anchored you into this mermaid-inhabited bayou town. Tia, the local voodoo queen/supernatural guru, makes another spunky appearance, as do the sisters Shelly and Lily. Lily comes across a little hard to like, and I look forward to seeing how her character will grow (and grow up) in the 3rd novel.
As a sequel, there is always the fear that the second book will not meet the expectations brought on by the first book. That isn't the case here. Siren's Treasure presents it's readers with a new glimpse into the mermaid realm as the story follows the development of Jet Borsage and FBI agent Landry Fields. The suspense of the storyline will keep readers glued to their pages, as I found it hard to put the book down! If you love mermaids and romance novels, you will absolutely love this second installment by Debbie Herbert. I have been waiting ages for this book, I'm so happy it finally came!
After reading Debbie Herbert’s first novel, Siren’s Secret, and waiting for this sequel, Debbie did not disappoint in the least. This story had me neglecting my housework, hiding from my family, and plotting how I could get more reading time. I simply didn’t want to put the story down.
Getting to delve into prickly Jet Bosarge’s life and discovering the fears and insecurities she must face made her a heroine to love. As an undercover FBI agent, Landry Fields is the exact opposite of Jet, but each of them have their own secrets to protect. Despite overwhelming odds Jet and Landry are drawn to each other, and must make decisions that make them re-evaluate their priorities. Precise, reasonable, and land-locked meets adventurous, emotional, and sea-loving. Throughout the story I wondered how these two characters were going to overcome their differences to find a middle ground between sea and land, but unexplained extraordinary events, a half-brother, and an unhappy dolphin combine to help Jet and Landry find their way to a future together.
If you love a little mystery, the sea, and two unforgettable characters, you’ll love this story. This is a must read book that you’ll want to add to your shelves.
Jet is a great character who is full of vibrant personality and the will to not only survive but thrive in her dual environments. It is hard for me to imagine that any second book in a series could be as good as the first, but this was clearly the case with Siren's Treasure, as it was even better than I would have imagined.
Debbie Herbert has a gift for making her characters feel like real people that you want to get to know better. I enjoy her stories because they keep me interested from the first few pages through the last, and because each character brings something different to the overall story.
The steam levels seem appropriate for the type of book this is and there is good chemistry between the main characters. The story has a nice flow and never strays from the purpose.
I actually thought the dialogue in this book was better than in the last, and am curious to see what will happen in the next novel. For anyone who likes romance with a bit of danger, an intriguing plot and unexpected twists, this is a great series to get into.
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the author, All opinions are my own.
This is the second book in series and is Jet's story. Jet, feels like an outcast. Different from her sister Lily and her cousin Shelly, she is dark to their light. Jet was betrayed by her ex-boyfriend Perry. Perry is now out of prison and up to something. Landry is FBI and is investigating Perry. Jet is part of the investigation. The big question being, is Jet involved? Somethings worked for me. Others didn't. In some ways, I liked this better then book 1 (Siren's Secret). In others, not. The Awesome: Jet is a fucking awesome! I liked her drive, compassion, athleticism, and even her insecurity. She uses her wish to find out her parentage (and it's not surprising). Landry was a decent character too. Lily and Shelly make appearances. The Not: While I liked the paranormal in Landry's life, it was too much for the length of the story, IMO. Instead of April and the mermaid who saved him when he was a kid; pick one and focus on that one. Both were glossed over I thought. I thought the build-up to the end and the end just fizzled. Perry and Vargas could have been really good villains. I am known to overlook the lack of protection in a paranormal. (Contemporaries, in the other hand should have some type of discussion/mention). This one stuck out to me, because when they first got together, no mention was made. None. Then, at the end, it mentioned condom use and the fact that they hadn't used protection earlier. Oopsie! (And yes, you can assume something and you would be correct!). This also stuck out to me, and not in a good way. Lily, Shelly, and Adriana are all beautiful, blonde, light skinned, kind. The rest of the mermaids are described in similar ways. Except the Blue Clan. The Blues are described as dark and barbaric. Their skin is dark too (shades of blue). They are also the outcasts of the mer-world. Again, this is primarily from the beginning of the book when Jet is participating in the Mer world games (or something like it). No other page time was spent on it other then later on in the book in regards to Jet's parentage. I am still looking forward to Lily's story (even though I think she is my least favorite). Also- the ISBN (9780373009336) from my book (that I'm holding in my hands) comes up for a COMPLETELY different book! Bride in Flight by Essie Summers published in 1965!
Jet Bosarge has always felt different. Never able to mix with either the mermaids or the humans, she has felt lonely and lost. Years ago, sick with the loneliness, she had made the mistake of loving a human named Perry and had shared all her secrets with him but had been devastated when he had betrayed her. Now he is back and as usual up to no good. Add to this mix, the new in town IRS agent with piercing glacial eyes, Landry Fields, Jet's life is about to be turned upside down.
Can Jet face Perry again? Why is she so different from the other mermaids including her sister Lily who is a siren with an enchanting voice? Why does Landry Fields make Jet dizzy with attraction like no other man has ever before?
Siren's Treasure by Debbie Herbert which releases on 1st November 2014 is the story of Jet Bosarge. We had first met her in Shelly's story in Siren's Secret and I loved her spunk and dont care attitude. Jet is strong, independent and gutsy. She likes collecting lost treasures from long ago and this dangerous hobby made her acquainted with Perry.
The cover is intriguing and suited to the Nocturne theme of the book. The blurb attracts you to go dive deep into the mysterious world of the mermaids. I had already dived once and loved the story of Shelly who is a cousin of Jet in the book, Siren's Secret and so when I came to know that Debbie had written Jet's story, I jumped at the chance to read and review it. :)
If you read and am sure loved Siren's Secret then you will love Siren's Treasure even more. The story is more crisp, more centered and characters more complex. There are several layers to the story and Debbie brings out the emotional struggle of Jet expertly. Jet Bosarge is a mermaid but still feels that she is truly not a part of merfolk. So different from the fragile beauty with blonde wavy hair of the other mermaids, she is dark haired, exceptionally strong and devoid of any fragile charm. Unlike her sister Lily, she isnt blessed with a siren's voice and never flocked by merman. Ignored by men of her world and burned in the past by a human, she is vulnerable and lonely but sports a brave, strong, spunky and dont-give-a-damn attitude outside.
I loved Landry. He is strong, handsome and very dedicated to his job. Afflicted with a troubled past. He was a bit mysterious and the whole supernatural element in his story was intriguing. The chemistry between Landry and Jet is intense. There is instant attraction between them and their feelings are so beautifully developed. I was so caught in the story that time just flew and before I knew it I had finished the whole book! :)
Shelly and Tillman also make an appearance in this book and it was so exciting to see them so happy after all the drama in the first book, Siren's Secret. Lilly and the complete Bosarge clan are a happy bunch and it was so enchanting to read about them and visualize their secretive under water world. They have lived in the Bayou area of Alabama and kept themselves hidden but when their secret and one of their own is threatened, they stand united to eliminate the threat. The author's talent in bringing out two sides to everyone made me sympathize with Perry too. He was once a good man but them went evil. It was interesting to see the comparison between his good and bad side.
Debbie's writing is simple and well balanced. She injects humor, emotions, heat and suspense in her story and keeps the reader turning pages with interest till the very end. You cannot help but visualize the merworld and feel the magic and mystery of it all.
Although this book is well plotted and held my interest but still I did feel the supernatural angle was incomplete. There was no proper closure to it. Why did something happen years ago and who was responsible? I wanted to know answers to all these questions and more.
Overall, I simply loved and enjoyed meeting Jet again and reading her own story. I give Siren's Treasure 4.5 out of 5. Strongly recommended to you all, go read and feel the magic of mermaids. Maybe I will meet one someday. :)
I received an ARC from the author and I am very thankful to her. The above review is my honest and unbiased opinion and in no way influenced.
The second book in the Dark Seas miniseries focuses on another mermaid living in the Alabama bayou, and secrets must be kept while unexpected desire is on the rise. An extremely imaginative world has been created by Debbie Herbert for these mythical creatures, and each scene is compellingly depicted with fascinating plus realistic details. Regardless of whether you consider mermaids only live in fairy-tales or think they could perhaps exist, this well-written account will totally captivate. SIREN'S TREASURE is absolutely spellbinding.
When Jet Borsage receives a letter to speak with an IRS agent about her taxes, she is not exactly certain what Landry Fields will be asking her. The shrewd man seems very suspicious about some of her past activities, especially those dealing with artifacts sold to a salvage company. Since Jet is a mermaid, she has an advantage when it comes to locating lost valuables hidden at the bottom of the sea, but her method cannot be divulged to humans. She made the mistake of telling her former boyfriend about her special capability and they started hunting sunken treasure, then he betrayed her right before he was sent to prison.
Now her ex is back in Bayou LaSiryna, and he is insistent that she work with him once more to find an item missing in the sea for years. Jet had always been shunned by other merfolk for some unknown reason, and she let herself believe the lies told by her boyfriend because of a wish to to feel accepted but she knows better this time. But because of her prior association with the criminal, she is now being investigated by Landry who is an FBI agent working on an undercover assignment. Jet is intrigued by the inquisitive man as he is with her, yet both have secrets which could destroy their hopes of any kind of relationship.
When I was introduced to the mermaids in the first Dark Seas story by Debbie Herbert, I found them to be creatively original. In the second book, more interesting facts are exposed about these legendary beings. How they interact with their own kind or other underwater creatures is particularly thought-provoking and made for numerous enjoyable scenes. Jet is definitely spirited, and her strong-willed nature is shown on several occasions when she does not back down. How Landry responds when truths come out about him and Jet prove he is capable of thinking for himself and changing, not completely set in his ways as often perceived.
Though this couple does not seem to have much in common, the immediate fascination between them leads to an intense emotional pull and sexual longing. Jet and Landry express their feelings with much passion, while the desire between them only grows stronger with each encounter. There is some very genuine danger in the story, and what ultimately happens seems probable. Also, any supernatural aspects added in come across as feasible at all times, as I never stopped to question their rationality. The first book in the miniseries was about Jet’s cousin, and enough background is included in this novel to let you know the highlights of what previously took place. There is one more mermaid with a story to tell, and it is sure to be attention-grabbing with the unique personality of Lily. Debbie Herbert makes SIREN'S TREASURE believably enthralling.
This ARC copy was given to me by the author in exchange for an honest review.
This is the second book about merfolks written by this author. In the first book she gave a good overview of Jet's personality.
Jet is a mermaid who is completely different to her sister Lily and her cousin Shelly in looks and every other aspect. She has always felt like an outsider even though, they are close and loyal to each other. They live in the Bayou amongst the humans. Jet is now intent on finding out why she is treated so differently by her merfolks.
Her boyfriend Perry has just been released from prison for being caught with treasures acquired from the bottom of the sea illegally. Jet managed to escape but not before Perry tried to divulge her true nature.
Landry works for the IRS and has summoned Jet in order to discuss her business accounts, which she ran in conjunction with Perry. Is it a coincidence that her accounts are being investigated just as Perry has been released from prison? Does Landry really work for the IRS?
They are mutually attracted to each other but Landry remains professional, whilst Jet keeps her distance for fear of betraying her true nature and put her whole race at risk. The more they interact with each other, the more the attraction grows until they both give in, thinking it was only physical. They soon find out that their feelings run deep and when they make love, it's very intense, passionate and emotional. The thing is that they both have secrets and are also afraid of hurt and betrayal.
Perry is now involved with a gangster who is wanted by law internationally. Because of his good looks and knowing about Jet's true nature Perry is sure that he will be able to convince Jet to undertake a dangerous illegal underwater excavation. He will do anything for money in order to live an extravagant life.
When Jet resists, she is kidnapped putting her life and those of her race in danger. Will Landry and her family be able to save her from a dreadful fate? Will Landry discover Jet's true nature and not run a mile? Will Jet be able to trust again?
I don't want to say much more as I don't want to give any spoilers but I can say that the further I got in this book, the more difficult it became to stop reading. It is very well written and the details made me feel as though I was there in the Bayou. I also like the track they played in the car, it was so appropriate.
I would fully recommend this book to those who like reading paranormal romance with a difference coupled with mystery, danger, love and passion.
Thank you Debbie Herbert for giving me the opportunity to read this captivating story. I hope we get to read Lily's story as well as learning more about Seth, Landry's brother who was introduced in this book.
Another win for me by Debbie Herbert. I enjoyed this book more than the first one, although both are excellent. My favorite part of this novel was getting to know Jet, the steely, hardcore mermaid of the Borsage family. I think the reason I enjoyed getting to know her was because I didn't like her in the first book. While I certainly didn't hate her, she just seemed rude for no reason in Siren's Secret. A bitter mermaid with a chip on her shoulder.
Well, she is all that, but for good reason. Turns out, Jet has a soft spot under all that hard exterior. Someone once told me that there is no such thing as a bitch, just someone masking hurt. Well, Herbert reminded me of this with her brilliant characterization. I didn't see her background coming. I knew that it wouldn't be pretty, but it was hard to read. Not because of the writing quality, obviously, but because it sucked. I admire Jet even more for having made it through all that and still having the courage to open her heart up. She is officially my favorite mermaid ever. We'll see what happens after I learn more about Lily. She's going to have to be all kinds of awesome to overtake Jet though.
Speaking of hearts, let's talk about Perry Hammonds. Eww. And also, bastard. Ooo, I hated him with my whole self. I just wanted a shark to eat him. He was such an arrogant prick who thought Jet owed him something. I can't believe how cruel he manged to be in the end, using Jet's biggest fears against her. Not cool, dude. Not cool.
On the upside.... Landry. I liked him right away, which almost never happens to me with characters. I need to feel them out, get to know them a bit. Even though he came off as uptight... okay, he is pretty uptight, but not so much as he seems in the beginning, I was just drawn to him. You could tell he was good as soon as he appeared on the scene, and I knew, after finding out he was Jet's love interest, that he would be cool with her being a mermaid. The scene where he found out was my favorite in this series so far.
I'm glad Herbert didn't go down the same road she did in the first novel. By that, I mean Jet and Landry's journey toward love and trust was totally different from Tillman and Shelly's. I'm always nervous when I read the second novel in any series, so I'm glad this didn't disappoint. The author keeps everything fresh and the surprises rolling. She is a master of characterization and creating spell binding romance.
This series is a most read for any paranormal romance fans.
I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for this review.
Book 2 of the siren series from Debbie Herbert. In Siren's Secret, book 1 of the series, we met Shelly, Jet, and Lily, mermaids who live in Alabama. The focus of book 1 was Shelly, and her relationship with Tillman, the local sheriff. Book 2 focuses on Jet. Jet never really fit in. As the book starts, she wins the Undines' Challenge, a mermaid competition. No one really pays her any attention, instead focusing on her sister Lily who has the siren's voice. As part of her win, she receives a trident that will give her one wish, which she will use to ask her mother why she is shunned by the mermaid community. When she gets back to Alabama, she has to meet with an IRS agent, Landry Fields. Supposedly, this is routine tax matter regarding her salvage company. She soon falls for him. (I'm not giving away anything that's not in the first part of the book.) Meanwhile, her ex-boyfriend, Perry, just got out of jail, and is looking for her to help with an excavation financed by a South American drug dealer named Sebastian Vargas. I won't say any more, but there are a lot of plot twists and turns.
I read book 1 of the series, so I knew part of the story going in. I also knew Debbie Herbert's writing style. As usual, it was excellent. You knew Landry and Jet would fall for each other (this is a Harlequin novel, after all), but the way they do it kept me intrigued. Also, the other plotlines helped move the story along. We learn a lot about Jet's family, and why they shun her. That actually happens in the middle of the book. A lot of authors would have put it as an epilogue. I like the action (non-sexual) part of the book. These mermaids can fight. In the end, there is a setup for book 3, which the author has indicated will be focused on Lily. I look forward to it.
If your a sucker for paranormal romance that this books for you. Filled with mystery, thrills, romance and mermaids what more could you want.
This is the first book I have read by Debbie Herbert and the second book of her Siren's series but they can be read as stand alone;s
I loved this book the authors use of words is highly descriptive so you feel you are actually there.
Jet the main character and mermaid is feisty, proud and endearing you can help but love her. Landry is an under cover FBI agent posing as an IRS inspect, their paths cross due to Jet's ex-boyfriend and ex-partner in underwater treasure retrieval. From the moment they meet the electricity between them is intense and its no long before cracking an international smuggling isn't the only think on Landry's mind.
With both parties sharing secrets and Perry back on the scene intend on Jet doing another job "diving for treasure'. Can this unlikely pair trust each other enough to see they are perfect for each other.
I will definitely be reading more books by this author
This book has one of the most satisfying epilogues I've ever read! As sad as I was to have the story end, the author did an amazing job knitting together all the plot threads and character arcs into an entirely memorable ending. No spoilers here.
I absolutely loved Jet and Landry, two outsiders who through each other find acceptance not only within their relationship, but with their families. Jet is jealous and resentful of her more beautiful sisters, but her recognition of it makes her utterly sympathetic. And Landry is one uptight dude--but his care for a stray orange tabby showed a caring side I couldn't resist.
Although this is a paranormal, the world and characters are so real that you never stop to question the magic. I highly recommend this for both paranormal and contemporary romance readers.
In mermaid form, Jet is a beautiful woman. In mermaid form, she's fast, competitive, and athletic. In both forms, she has family and esteem issues. Her own people have shunned her and treated her as an outcast her entire life. Why?
Landry calls Jet into his office. On the surface, he appears to be an oxymoron: an attractive IRS agent.
Jet wonders if Landry is interested in more than her tax returns.
Landry wonders if Jet is a criminal or an innocent bystander. He's determined to find out before she sees through his disguise and figures out what he's really after.
Siren's Treasure, by Debbie Herbert, is an action-packed paranormal romance. Sparks fly as the pages turn. Secrets are uncovered. The story pulls the reader in like a whirlpool, faster and faster to the surprise ending.
After devouring the first book, I was so excited for Siren's Treasure to come out. I knew I would love Jet, the heroine, and I was right. She's my favorite type of no-nonsense, tough heroine who gets things done. She had weaknesses and flaws that made her seem real and relatable. Landry, her hero, was just perfect for her and a real hunk. He was great contrast for her and their romance kept me guessing. Debbie has a great skill for writing a place and people that feel real. It's clear she knows her subject and her setting and it makes for a great read. Book 3, Lily's story, can't come soon enough!
I was drawn in to the story line from the beginning. It has mystery, romance and fantasy. Jet is complicated but real, the opposite of her cousin Shelly from the first book of this series. I can't wait to see more of these merfolk and hopefully her sister Lily. It is suspense filled and full of romance and will take you to another world. I would recommend this to all my friends and fellow book lovers!
This book had everything I wanted more of in the first one, namely more underwater mermaid action (regular swimming, not sexy) and more sass in the heroine. I found this to be an impossible to put down and very satisfying read. My only complaint is having to wait so long for the next one.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book for review. It did not influence my opinion.
Amazing writing us character that come Alive all part of what made this book amazing. Though I would have loved to had a little more at the end. There needs to be another one for sure!! I'm recommending to all my reading friends!!
I didn't enjoy this as much as the first book, mainly because I didn't connect as strongly with the protagonists. The abduction/rescue sequence near the end was a blast, though. Don't mess with mermaids!
In the picturesque, coastal town of Bayou La Siryna, Alabama, a family of shapeshifter mermaids lives unknown among the ordinary townspeople.
Although a full mermaid, Jet Bosarge finds less acceptance among her kind than her cousin, who is a TRAB, a half-human traitor baby. Jet can’t understand why the other merfolk keep their distance from her, but she believes it is related to her looks. Tall, athletic and muscular, with dark eyes and hair, she can outswim most of the mermen at the annual Poseidon games, but no one seems impressed. They are much more enthralled with her elegant sister, who wins the siren song contest every year with her exquisite voice. All Jet longs for is a loving family of her own, but she doubts it will ever happen. Three years ago when Chilean police raided their salvage operation, her human ex-boyfriend betrayed her. He blamed their illegal activities on her and even spilled the secret of her nature. Luckily, no one believed him. Jet jumped overboard and got away, but her ex was arrested. Since then, she hasn’t trusted humans and wouldn’t think of revealing her true self to a dirt dweller.
Landry Fields is an FBI agent, undercover as an IRS auditor, investigating Jet’s ex, who recently received an early release from prison. Landry suspects the guy is plotting criminal activity and he thinks Jet may be involved as well. He contacts Jet in the guise of looking into her finances, but really intends to find out what the ex is up to. Landry had a rough childhood after his father left and his mother had a string of husbands who left behind a number of half-siblings, causing the family to live from hand to mouth. As the oldest, Landry had to look out for all the others. The only good part of his youth was visiting his Mimi in Bayou La Siryna every summer. When she passed away several years ago, he inherited her house. He visits the town whenever work allows. Since his fiancée left him for someone else, he doesn’t believe in loving or trusting anyone. He relies on himself and likes it that way.
When Jet and Landry meet, the attraction between them is instant and electric. However, Jet can’t let Landry find out too much about her business with her ex, or he might figure out it is her mermaid abilities which help her find undersea treasure. She’s also worried about him pressing charges against her for questionable business practices her ex entangled her in. Landry has his own secrets, including his real purpose for coming to town. Both have been burned and are wary. When Jet’s ex won’t take no for an answer to one last venture and the crime boss behind the project gets tired of waiting for her help, Jet faces the most dangerous situation of her life. To survive, she must face her greatest fear. As danger mounts, Landry must let down his defenses and open himself to the possibility of love and magic, or he will lose the woman he has come to cherish above his own life.
I was spellbound by Siren’s Treasure. The compelling characters, suspenseful plot and tightly written story hooked me from beginning to end. I read it twice because I enjoyed it so much. This book could be read as a stand-alone, but I highly recommend readers start with Siren’s Secret, which is the story of Jet’s cousin, Shelly. After Siren’s Secret and Siren’s Treasure, you won’t be able to resist the third book in the series, Siren’s Call. I guarantee it!
After reading several of Herbert's series, about shifters or witches, and now reading her Mermaid series, and loving it. Debbie was nominated as a RITA finalist this year, and I have no doubt she may be a winner next year.I loved Mermaids before I read this book, and love them even more now. Debbie takes real world situations such as crime bosses and prejudice and places them into her fantasy world for her characters to have to deal with, and in some case to overcome. Using strong leading males,independent female characters like Jet creates empathy for them. For a great and entertaining read, check it out. I can't wait to read the next book in this series.
I loved Siren's Secret, mostly because the new spin on mermaids. Soo I was uber excited to see another book from the same series. Jet seemed to me like the tom boyish, cool and collected one of the trio. She comes off as stiff at times when I read about her in Shelly's story. It was interesting to see how she falls in love and find herself.
As the book begins, the reader learns that Jet struggles with how she looks. She does not match the ethereal blond beauty type that her entire family possesses. She wonders why she is so different and the merfolk seem to avoid her. The whispers and hostility make her feel even more left out. She feels like she is never good enough compared to her goddess of a sister, Lily. She suspects her heritage may be different. Sound familiar?
I was surprised that Jet feels so much insecurity. She even goes as far to call herself ugly. These are very relatable and real feelings for anyone. I found it so crazy that Jet would think she is not pretty just because she looks different. She is athletic and fit. I would admire her for that. It is not often that books portray women as realistically healthy. I hate it when authors make their characters have such good bodies when there is not a shred of being active, eating well or exercising present. Jet has a toned body from all the swimming. I salute her activeness. I just cannot believe she would fall for Perry and stay with him. She is brave and outspoken, why would someone like Jet lower her standards to someone as bad as him? simple, she thinks he will change eventually. I cannot believe she did not just tell him to get lost. Why the heck should she even bothet to entertain him?
The romance. Okay this is where things differ. When Landry meets Jet he is intrigued by her. He finds her beautiful amd cannot stop thinking of her. Now we have two opposing opinions. Jet thinks she is not pretty while Landry thinks she is uniquely beautiful and has eyes only for her. Why the difference? I guess it is how Jet sees herself. Landry came across as not too solid a character until it was brought up that he has baggage. Having his half brother, Seth stay with him also made things more interesting. I have to say these books have characters with tons of baggage.
When they both come together it felt okay, he seems to be able to read her mind and they both open up to each other. Though there were times when Jet's thoughts felt very airy fairy. It frustrates me when the two MCs have feelings but it takes forever for them to admit it even when everyone can see it. I do like that both of them are willing to give and it does not seem one sided. In the sense that Jet wants to commit to Landry. She wants to promise to love him like he loves her. It makes me happy to see the female counterpart sharing what she would like to contribute instead of just relying on the male for everything.The sex scenes were hot
There is definitely more action in this book compared to the previous one. I have to say the ending felt abit unrealistic, I liked that I saw Shelly and Tillman again. The reader gets a peek into how their lives are going. It was great that Adriana, Jet and Lily's mother appeared. Mostly because I did not see much of her in the previous books and it would have been nice to get to know the Bosarge family. Adriana played a rather important part as she holds the key to Jet's questions about her heritage.
Perry and Vargas did not feel like real villains to me. There just was not enough page time to establish their characters. Perry came off as a free loader who pouts when he does not get his way. Weak. I have to say that the last scene where everyone is wondering where Perry is and Lily is down there seems to hint at that things may be explained in the next book which should be Lily's. She is a character I would like to get to know. All in all I enjoyed this installment as much as the last one.
I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Jet may be no siren but she is a mermaid fresh from a win at the Poseiden Games and ready to re-open her antiques shop and put the past, and her ex Perry, behind her. When she meets Agent Landry Fields (an FBI agent, pretending to be an IRS accountant, out to take down a crime boss Jet's ex has become entangled with) she is confident she can handle him. Who she's really worried about is her up-to-no-good ex. Before Perry was sent away to jail after a treasure hunt expedition with Jet, he tried to sell her out, divulging her scaly secret. Unable to trust him but still attracted to him, she worries that her resolve to stay away won't be enough when she comes face-to-face with Perry again.
She didn't expect that meeting Landry would make any lingering desire for Perry disappear. Now it is Landry on her mind and when she employs his half-brother as part-time help for the summer, she finds out there is a lot more to Landry than meets the eye.
Siren's Treasure is the second in a series but I can tell you (having not read the first book) that this novel can stand on its own. It had me intrigued within a few pages and I just had read more. It has all the things that makes a good romance/mystery novel - romance(duh), intrigue, excitement, deception, love, magic, and even a dolphin named Dolly! I thoroughly enjoyed reading this novel. Ms. Herbert has a great way of bringing the story to life in your head and entertaining you every step of the way.
While the premise was interesting and the writing pretty good, it did fall into the typical (and a bit predictable) story arc common in the Romantic Suspense genre and everything gets tied into a nice neat little bow. Now, this isn't to say that the ending was bad (I am quite fond of HEA endings), just that there weren't any surprises in the story.
Would I recommend this? I would if you want something light, well written and enjoyable (really who doesn't want that?). As for the rating I give it 7 out of 10 stars. Obviously this isn't a choice on this site for scoring so I warred back and forth over 3 stars versus 4. My final deciding factor was how much I am likely to reread this. I will often end up rereading a 4 star book but rarely a 3 star book. As much as I did enjoy Siren's Treasure, I cannot see myself rereading this (at least not for several years).
My Thoughts: The second book of the series is as entertaining as the first. FBI Agent Landry (impersonating an IRS auditor) has a fascination for Jet which he’s never had for ANY woman. He thinks she’s a stunning beauty and her cousins, whom everyone raves over, are just okay, which only shows love is blind. He’s convinced she’s not the bad one, although he questions how she manages to have so many sea treasures in her house. It’s her ex-boyfriend who looks bad and possibly working with someone else. He didn’t want Jet to be pulled into what was happening. He was drawn to Jet’s directness of thought, energy and her curvaceous body.
However, Jet was a force unto herself. She was abnormally strong, much more than a normal mermaid and felt she could take care of herself, but when her ex started threatening her, insisting she pull one more heist with him, then he’d leave her alone, she knew it not to be true. She could strong-arm many men, but could she escape a bullet?
Jet liked Landry, more than a little and wanted to give all her secrets to him, but that’s what she did with Perry Hammond, and now she had to watch her back for her and her family. Jet was packing a lot of guilt about her past actions. I liked the way Jet’s heart opens to Landry. Even when she found he’d been lying to her, she couldn’t deny to herself he’d done it in the line of duty. She understood him even better when he started opening up to her. In book one, Jet was the least likeable of the mermaids and here in book two the reader understands why she acts as she does. Changes occur in Jet’s life during this story that soften her shell and make her one of my favorite of the merfolk.
Landry came back to stay at it grandmother’s old home while working this case. He was an absolute non-believer of anything to do with the spirit world and the supernatural. However, too many things just weird were happening to him which had him questioning the world he’d created for himself—all nice and neat. What was really true and what was not? The story was fast-paced, multi-faceted with intriguing characters, suspenseful and totally engaging with Jet and Landry taking front and center. It was pack-full of paranormal and the unusual in a fantasy world which seemed perfectly normal to me.
If you love fun romantic stories and have a soft heart for dolphins and sea creatures read Debbie Herbert’s Dark Seas Series. Her next of the series releases in June, 2015, Siren’s Call.
This is the sequel to Siren's Secret and follows Shelly's sister Jet, (mermaid treasure hunter) and her romance with FBI Agent Landry, on the trail of Jet's ex Perry.
Positives:
This is an ok paranormal romance with mermaids that have proper fish tails (check). I adore the Alabama bayou setting and the whole voodoo, mermaids, deep south magic. (check) The story is reasonably exciting with villainous villains, action and shows off both the hero and heroine's strengths. (check) I also liked the subplot of the hero's delinquent brother, it show's Landry's caring side. (check)
Negatives:
First off the dumb name of the hero, a particular bugbear of mine. Do you personally know someone called Landry? Sounds too much like Laundry for my liking.
Secondly there's waaaaaaaaaaay too much going on here. We have: Evil treasure hunters looking for a hydrogen bomb, Landry dealing with a) the death of his sister (and yes her ghost does pop up), b) his irresponsible mother and all his step siblings - giving him issues with love c) the arrival of one of said siblings, d) the fact that he was rescued by a mermaid as a kid. Then there's all Jet's issues - 1) the fact that she learns she's adopted and the product of rape, 2) her evil ex boyfriend just out of jail, 3) her quest to save a captive dolphin 4) her quest to be the best and win in the equivalent of the mermaid Olympic games.
Seriously there's enough threads here to fuel several novels. While the story does hang together perfectly well I would have preferred less plot and more romance. As it stands the romance did not blow me away but I think that's largely because I was distracted by everything else that was going on.
This was perfectly enjoyable and didn't get bogged down by all the autism themes in the previous book. It's not the best mermaid romance out there, but I do really like the setting and you could do a hell of a lot worse.
Hoping that we'll get Lily's story next to complete the trilogy.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Psychocat Reads Review of SIREN'S TREASURE by Debbie Herbert
(I was given a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.)
Today we bring you the second book in Debbie Herbert's Dark Seas collection. Let's see if it did as well as it's predecessor.
This Book as Part of a Series: This book continues with the Bosarge family of mermaids we meet in SIREN'S SECRET. It could easily be read as a standalone novel, but you are likely to enjoy it even more if you've already read the previous book. This time we pick up with Jet as the primary focus, shifting Shelly and Tillman to secondary roles.
The Characters: coming off of Jet's rather prickly disposition in the first book, I was excited to dig a bit deeper into her character, and the author didn't disappoint. I actually found in led Jet even more than Shelly.
Landry is a great leading male character. He comes with plenty of baggage and issues, making him far more interesting than the prefect knight in shining armor type.
The Relationships: Jet and Landry have to work through a host of issues from their past relationships, family drama, and their own reluctance to open up before they can really have a shot. Those elements help make the story multi-dimensional, while still keeping a strong focus on the core romance.
Too Perfect or Perfectly Flawed: Given the number of secrets Bergen Jet and Landry at the beginning, it is very easy to call this one perfectly flawed.
Jen's Final Rating: 5 STARS! I enjoyed this one even more than the first book. The mix of drama with Perry and the legal side and the romance struck a balance that kept things exciting, steamy, and sometimes downright sweet.
Psychocat's Final Rating: 5 CLAWS! All claws are aimed at Perry this time around. Psychocat was more than willing to assist in getting rid of the creep from the very beginning.
Such a good read!!! This is book 2 in the Dark Seas Trilogy, and like ALL of Herbert's books, it's a win! Jet is not your typical mermaid. She's hot headed, possesses super strength, and prefers to be on her own. The book starts out with Jet winning the Undine Race at the Poseidon Games. While her victory was hard won, it goes unnoticed by her family. Jet is quite hurt, and decides to use her prize to force her mother into telling a deep family secret (that doesn't come until later in the book). This isn't actually the main plot of the book. Herbert is such a good writer that she has a main plot and a sub plot and they're all essential to this story! The actual plot begins when Jet finds herself being interviewed by a very handsome IRS agent, which mystifies her. He's clean cut and boring, so not like her ex Perry, who just got out of jail in South America. Unbeknownst to Jet, the boring IRS guy is in fact, Landry Fields is an FBI agent tasked with investigating Jet and her ex Perry. Perry, in turn, shows up in Jet's life exactly at the wrong time and begs her to do one more treasure hunt with him. Jet refuses and tries to focus on life without Perry. What she doesn't know is that Perry is involved with a pretty brutal crime lord who will do anything to get this hands on a certain treasure. This book is full of mystery, romance, and adventure. I absolutely loved it. I loved the whole series! I could talk forever about the Bosarge Mermaids and Bayou La Syrena. Debbie has once again made me turn into a rabid fangirl!
This is the first book I have read by Debbie Herbert, but it is the second book in the series. That being said I did not feel like I was behind on any important information pertaining to the background of the story.
When Landry Fields arrives in the Bayou for an investigation into Jet Bosarge's dealings with her ex-boyfriend Perry, he begins to develop feelings for Jet. Yet he is there undercover and can not get to know Jet on a personal level.
Jet is just off a win at the Poseidon Games and is feeling like she does not belong with her family of mermaids. She feels like no one is telling her the truth on why she is different from the rest of them. When IRS Agent Landry shows up and begins to investigate her businesses she wonders what trouble she may get into. Yet, she is attracted to Landry but her ex-boyfriend Perry has one more job for her to complete first.
Perry knows all of Jet's deep secrets and is blackmailing her into helping him. Jet wants to keep her secrets safe but know she may be in deeper than she thought. Will Landry and Jet be able to overcome their secrets and begin a relationship or will all the truths ruin their happiness. Also, when it is discovered what trouble Perry has gotten into, will Jet even survive?
I loved the look into mermaids and the idea that they can be able to survive both on land and in the water. It's really a great concept! I loved all the relationships between all the characters and can't wait to read more!