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The Blackness #4
Into the Blackness
Cease being everything you’re trained to be in order to find who you’re meant to be…with.
Nick Cooper is many things in life. He’s a vicious enforcer for a crime family. He’s a monster that tortures with a smirk tattooed on his lips. He’s an olive-skinned god, mysterious and captivating. He’s the best undercover field agent in the Domestic Crime Agency. He’s my partner for the next year. I have to play his wife which will test my abilities as an agent. Nick isn’t the type of man I’m used to dealing with. He’ll push me, tempt me, hurt me and eventually end up on the business end of a weapon I’m wielding. This mission will change everything I’ve ever known about people and myself. I can only hope I’ll survive it.
Katherine Russell is many things in life. She’s a chameleon, able to change and adapt to any situation. She’s lethal…as lethal as me. She’s a golden-haired ray of sunshine. She’s the best field agent the Domestic Crime Agency has ever had. She’s my partner for the next year. No, she’s my wife. There are worse things in life than sharing a fake marital bed with a gorgeous woman for a year. Trust me. Kat’s more than a beautiful woman though, and I have the feeling she’s going to challenge me, battle me, infuriate me and test all the walls I’ve spent a lifetime building around myself. Our mission is to find and eliminate a human trafficking kingpin. It’ll be child’s play compared to the journey my new partner is going to take me on. If I can manage to shed the monster of my past I’ll no longer be pulled into the blackness. I’ll be able to bask in the light that glows from every pore of Katherine Russell.
If only it were that simple.
Nick Cooper is many things in life. He’s a vicious enforcer for a crime family. He’s a monster that tortures with a smirk tattooed on his lips. He’s an olive-skinned god, mysterious and captivating. He’s the best undercover field agent in the Domestic Crime Agency. He’s my partner for the next year. I have to play his wife which will test my abilities as an agent. Nick isn’t the type of man I’m used to dealing with. He’ll push me, tempt me, hurt me and eventually end up on the business end of a weapon I’m wielding. This mission will change everything I’ve ever known about people and myself. I can only hope I’ll survive it.
Katherine Russell is many things in life. She’s a chameleon, able to change and adapt to any situation. She’s lethal…as lethal as me. She’s a golden-haired ray of sunshine. She’s the best field agent the Domestic Crime Agency has ever had. She’s my partner for the next year. No, she’s my wife. There are worse things in life than sharing a fake marital bed with a gorgeous woman for a year. Trust me. Kat’s more than a beautiful woman though, and I have the feeling she’s going to challenge me, battle me, infuriate me and test all the walls I’ve spent a lifetime building around myself. Our mission is to find and eliminate a human trafficking kingpin. It’ll be child’s play compared to the journey my new partner is going to take me on. If I can manage to shed the monster of my past I’ll no longer be pulled into the blackness. I’ll be able to bask in the light that glows from every pore of Katherine Russell.
If only it were that simple.
445 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 5, 2014
About the author
Norma Jeanne Karlsson
10 books369 followersOriginally from Kansas City, Missouri, Norma Jeanne recently found herself relocating to the United Kingdom. Now living in Belfast, she took hold of the opportunity to kick the 9-5 job for a chance to become an author. The best part: working from her home office, she gets to spend more time with her cast of crazy characters (written and real).
In her free time Norma Jeanne is a voracious reader and consumes books as readily as meals. She is a people watcher by nature and uses her experiences in life, observed or otherwise, to build the worlds and characters that thrive in her books. A believer in the strength of the human spirit, Norma Jeanne writes the stories of people that persevere when all appears to be lost.
In her free time Norma Jeanne is a voracious reader and consumes books as readily as meals. She is a people watcher by nature and uses her experiences in life, observed or otherwise, to build the worlds and characters that thrive in her books. A believer in the strength of the human spirit, Norma Jeanne writes the stories of people that persevere when all appears to be lost.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
May 13, 2018
4,5 💖💖🌟🌟🌟🌟s 💖💖!!!!!!!
January 22, 2016
Loved it!!
August 7, 2014
Nick has done a lot of bad things in his life. He has a darkness inside him that he can't let go of. His newest assignment is to bring down a human trafficking kingpin. He is going undercover with a fake wife. While he is the best Domestic Crime Agency undercover field agent, he is paired up with Katherine who is the best female field agent. This is the best undercover act they have had. She is used to playing a sexy woman who has to use her body to get close to a mark. He is used to being a dark person who has had to do horrible things to get what he needed. As they play as a married couple that part should be easy. However as they live together and get to know each other it's hard to keep it just an act. She may be the one woman who can bring him what he needs. He may be the best thing that every happened to her. Between the danger they face on the mission and mistakes he sometimes makes it may be to much for them to work out.
Nick has a lot of dark and danger lurking in him. he calls his self a monster and doesn't get to close to many people. He doesn't think he deserves anything good. He is tough, sexy and just doesn't see what is deep down inside him. What is deep down inside him is a man who will protect those he cares about. He has one close friend and he would move mountains for her. Kat is a amazing at playing a different person than who she is. She keeps her heart closed and this mission changes her. She let's Nick and others in. She isn't afraid of danger and like Nick if she loves you nothing will stand in her way of protecting you.
This series has become one of my favorites along with the author who is a must buy for me. I have loved all the other books so far so I knew I would this one. I just didn't think I would enjoy it as much as I did. Kid is a female in the other books and she plays a part in this one as well. I didn't think any woman would ever top my love of her. I believe Kat did. She isn't as hardcore but when she takes in strays as some may call them that did it for me. She is so amazing and I think I have a crush on her now. She is the perfect woman for Nick and she mostly puts up with the crap he pulls. With Nick it was nice seeing him become more open. He learns what it is to care for someone and need them in his life. He has to see he isn't a monster and he deserves happiness. There is lots of danger in this book as in the others in this series. There is love, lust and what a family bond really is. the author is a master at making characters seem real and getting you to fall in love with them. At times reading this I felt like my heart was being ripped from my chest. I fell in love not with just the two main characters but four other new ones as well. I love how it all seems to come back around in the end and getting to see the characters I already know and love. I would tell and beg everyone to read this series. It has hard scenes so if your looking for fluff this book isn't for you. I can not wait for the next book.
Nick has a lot of dark and danger lurking in him. he calls his self a monster and doesn't get to close to many people. He doesn't think he deserves anything good. He is tough, sexy and just doesn't see what is deep down inside him. What is deep down inside him is a man who will protect those he cares about. He has one close friend and he would move mountains for her. Kat is a amazing at playing a different person than who she is. She keeps her heart closed and this mission changes her. She let's Nick and others in. She isn't afraid of danger and like Nick if she loves you nothing will stand in her way of protecting you.
This series has become one of my favorites along with the author who is a must buy for me. I have loved all the other books so far so I knew I would this one. I just didn't think I would enjoy it as much as I did. Kid is a female in the other books and she plays a part in this one as well. I didn't think any woman would ever top my love of her. I believe Kat did. She isn't as hardcore but when she takes in strays as some may call them that did it for me. She is so amazing and I think I have a crush on her now. She is the perfect woman for Nick and she mostly puts up with the crap he pulls. With Nick it was nice seeing him become more open. He learns what it is to care for someone and need them in his life. He has to see he isn't a monster and he deserves happiness. There is lots of danger in this book as in the others in this series. There is love, lust and what a family bond really is. the author is a master at making characters seem real and getting you to fall in love with them. At times reading this I felt like my heart was being ripped from my chest. I fell in love not with just the two main characters but four other new ones as well. I love how it all seems to come back around in the end and getting to see the characters I already know and love. I would tell and beg everyone to read this series. It has hard scenes so if your looking for fluff this book isn't for you. I can not wait for the next book.
August 5, 2014
Can the Blackness series get any better? Ah, yeah. It's mind boggling how it is even possible, but this is one series that keeps growing with intensity with each new member of Shannon aka Kid's family.
Nick Cooper has a special spot in Shannon's heart. He is the only tie left to her childhood. Into the Blackness is Nick's story.
Masters in their field, Nick and Kat are thrown together for a year long mission for the DCA to take down a human trafficking ring. Both have experience in being undercover for long periods of time for nailing their targets, however Nick has the longest run of ten years undercover. They pose as a family, with Jake, a DCA rookie, posing as their fifteen year old son.
I can't shout out enough to the universe how much I love this series. Each character is strong, bad-ass and loving hard. Nick has a blackness around his heart, however, with Shannon's unconditional love and friendship, she has gradually started to pick it away, with Kat coming in with a jack hammer to destroy it to the ground.
This story really threw me, I never expected the direction it went. It is just another example how a family can form without the blood ties normally considered for that family bond. I truly think that is what has totally drawn me to this series. It sure wouldn't be the hot and steamy scenes. (wink-wink)The attraction between Nicky and Kat are undeniable, even when they are mad at each other. hmmmm, which makes the make-up SO much better. Of course, our favorite characters keep making their appearance, it wouldn't seem the same without them, however it doesn't draw attention away from Nicky and Kat at all.
Of course the plot is amazing, with tons of action and twists. You will fly though this story, and will be frustrated in a good way for the next novel to make its appearance. Good thing you can always reread!
READ THIS SERIES! If you want strong women, hot guys, and amazing plots, look no farther. It's all right here.
Nick Cooper has a special spot in Shannon's heart. He is the only tie left to her childhood. Into the Blackness is Nick's story.
Masters in their field, Nick and Kat are thrown together for a year long mission for the DCA to take down a human trafficking ring. Both have experience in being undercover for long periods of time for nailing their targets, however Nick has the longest run of ten years undercover. They pose as a family, with Jake, a DCA rookie, posing as their fifteen year old son.
I can't shout out enough to the universe how much I love this series. Each character is strong, bad-ass and loving hard. Nick has a blackness around his heart, however, with Shannon's unconditional love and friendship, she has gradually started to pick it away, with Kat coming in with a jack hammer to destroy it to the ground.
This story really threw me, I never expected the direction it went. It is just another example how a family can form without the blood ties normally considered for that family bond. I truly think that is what has totally drawn me to this series. It sure wouldn't be the hot and steamy scenes. (wink-wink)The attraction between Nicky and Kat are undeniable, even when they are mad at each other. hmmmm, which makes the make-up SO much better. Of course, our favorite characters keep making their appearance, it wouldn't seem the same without them, however it doesn't draw attention away from Nicky and Kat at all.
Of course the plot is amazing, with tons of action and twists. You will fly though this story, and will be frustrated in a good way for the next novel to make its appearance. Good thing you can always reread!
READ THIS SERIES! If you want strong women, hot guys, and amazing plots, look no farther. It's all right here.
August 9, 2014
Holy Hotness!!! This series is for *CONTEMPORARY* *FICTION* *READERS*
Gorgeous Alpha men & strong sexy women, mostly who are Irish-American, what's not to love!!! ... This is another 5 star must read as were books 1,2 and 3 in this fantastic series :) ... I have NEVER before found a new author that I had become addicted to right from the beginning of the first book of hers that I had ever read :o ... Each book is just as good as the previous one if not better :) ... *I do strongly recommend *reading them in order* to know the back story and to keep up with the reappearing characters & relationships that you will wish you could actually be a part of!*... This 4th book was just as fresh and riveting as Books 1,2 & 3 :) ... Each book was never repetitive or predictable like other series I've read before and had so many twists & turns to keep you invested and the pages turning!!... I am anxiously (and impatiently ;) awaiting book #5 in the Fall!! ....
PS- I recommend this series be read in order :) Only for avid fans of:
*CONTEMPORARY* *FICTION* *READERS*
This book & series is Romantic Suspense at it's best! - Nothing is based on real life and should not be compared to real life... I read FICTION to escape real life :)
Gorgeous Alpha men & strong sexy women, mostly who are Irish-American, what's not to love!!! ... This is another 5 star must read as were books 1,2 and 3 in this fantastic series :) ... I have NEVER before found a new author that I had become addicted to right from the beginning of the first book of hers that I had ever read :o ... Each book is just as good as the previous one if not better :) ... *I do strongly recommend *reading them in order* to know the back story and to keep up with the reappearing characters & relationships that you will wish you could actually be a part of!*... This 4th book was just as fresh and riveting as Books 1,2 & 3 :) ... Each book was never repetitive or predictable like other series I've read before and had so many twists & turns to keep you invested and the pages turning!!... I am anxiously (and impatiently ;) awaiting book #5 in the Fall!! ....
PS- I recommend this series be read in order :) Only for avid fans of:
*CONTEMPORARY* *FICTION* *READERS*
This book & series is Romantic Suspense at it's best! - Nothing is based on real life and should not be compared to real life... I read FICTION to escape real life :)
Read
February 11, 2015DNF at 77%. This book started off great. An undercover op against human trafficking where the two main characters are posing as a married couple and then actually fall in love in real life. But then it takes quite a dark turn and now we have our lead characters tearing finger nails off suspects. Sorry, I don't need to read in my romance books what I'm beginning to see every day on my TV screen. Plus there were a few things that happened that just seemed implausible so I have given up. Sorry.
November 6, 2019
I had to take a moment to savor this book before I could write about it. This review will be short because I'm just speechless. Gawd!! This book was AMAZING!!! I went through so many feels and the kids stole my heart but Nick and Kat rock! One of the best couple I have read about. Their life isn't easy and the situation they were in wasn't easy but they worked so well together and overcame all of it to create their perfect family.
This book is not for people who get squeamish when reading about violence and torture method. This book has sensitive topics that might be trigger points for a lot of people. There is a short descriptive sex scene with Kat and one of her marks in the first chapter. I thought it would bother me because most usually it does but I got over it pretty quick.
Gonna keep this short but you HAVE to read this book!!! Uggh I love it!
This book is not for people who get squeamish when reading about violence and torture method. This book has sensitive topics that might be trigger points for a lot of people. There is a short descriptive sex scene with Kat and one of her marks in the first chapter. I thought it would bother me because most usually it does but I got over it pretty quick.
Gonna keep this short but you HAVE to read this book!!! Uggh I love it!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 7, 2014
This is the 4th book of The Blackness Series. Kat Russell is an excellent field agent for the Domestic Crime Agency and has just ended an op that was a soul crusher. She has had to use her mind and body too much on her missions. When she returns to the office for her next op, she meets Nick Cooper. We first saw Nick in Blackness Awaits, who knew Shannon for a short time in her childhood, and again when she needs rescuing 22 years later. He spent ten years as an enforcer for his Uncle, well known for his cruelty in obtaining information, all the while as an undercover agent.
Nick and Kat are instructed to work as a husband and wife team to find some human traffickers. Jake, new to the agency and to the training, is selected to act as their teenage nephew. They move to a small town, where most of the women act as if they are ‘Stepford Wives’.
As Jake starts school, he becomes friends with Sawyer, Dane and Cole and invites them home. Kat takes on Jake and the boys as if they are her own, feeding and supporting them, and showing them all a love they’ve never known. The three boys come from wealthy families who leave them with staff and don’t even contact them for long periods of time. Kat finds this repugnant and lets the boys live with her, Jake, and Nick.
The interactions between the four boys, Kat, and Nick are such a wonderful part of the story. They spend time with each other, and they all adore ‘Aunt’ Kat. Nick finds himself slowly losing part of the harshness from his life and becoming more caring. The boys offer Nick and Kat sunshine, after living with such darkness, but having any personal emotions on an op make it more dangerous.
We see that Jake has horrible screaming nightmares but can’t talk about his childhood and what causes such terror. I saw his name mentioned for book #6, so I’m sure that one is going to be a tear-jerker when we find out his history.
We get to see Shannon again from the first books, and she’s as kick-ass as usual. She jumps right in to help and doesn’t hesitate to tell Nicky or the others when they are messing up.
Nick tells Kat that he runs things for the mission and she will have to follow his orders. She’s not happy with this aspect since she has worked on her own for so long. She has lived with a mask to cover her real thoughts and emotions when working on ops and Nick is furious when she won’t give him all of her, without the mask. These two spend a lot of time in the story being close and then Nick makes Kat furious. Nick has loved his friend Shannon for so long but now finds that Kat has a place in his heart and needs her sweetness and softness in his life. He tells Kat, “If we do this, it’s my way and I don’t f@ckin’ share. You’re mine. I don’t think I need to explain this to you, but I need to know you get how I work. I know that’s intense, but that’s me.”
This op is expected to take a year due to trying to fit in with the town inhabitants and determine who could be a part of the human trafficking ring. Kat, who is used to being active, finds herself at loose ends. They are provided with an enormous house, expensive clothes with specific directions on when to wear, and all Kat wants is some loose comfortable clothes. She does love to cook so she keeps Nick and the boys happy with all of the amazing meals. They joke about trying to keep four teenage boys fed.
The story is riveting from so many directions, finding more bits of information about the traffickers, along with guns, torture, killings, and more. Nick feels the monster within beginning to wake and he feels the need to torture after finding the first person involved with the trafficking. I could see Shannon offering to deal with the person but Kat surprised me with the intensity of her skills to obtain information. I could just visualize the things done and they fit the storyline. Nick lets the monster out one more time to tie up some loose ends with some horrible criminals and I was happy with the outcome! I’ve seen local news stories on people that have lived undercover for long time periods and also read other books prior to this one. I can’t imagine how the people manage to keep themselves sane with the way they have to live. I would imagine that the longer the time undercover, the harder they become. It’s unfortunate that some crimes can only be handled by such actions. I feel for the police and agents in this capacity, which is similar to the military dealing with stress in their environments.
There is also so much love and laughter with the boys, and sweet and sexy times between Kat and Nick. This book covers a wide range of emotions and I went from teary to laughing throughout the story. When a young girl has escaped and Kat finds her, the boys provide her with comfort and stay with her. The story is reminiscent of when Kavy, Sully, and Cally protected Shannon/Kid when she was assaulted after they first met.
After an amazing, emotional story, Nick realizes that Kat provides him with a light that he was afraid to live in and now can’t live without. “There’s no blackness defining me anymore, only light that I’ve found and built on.”
As with the other stories in this series, my Kindle was almost on fire as I swiped quickly to read each new page. Ms. Karlsson takes you on a ride and all you can do is hang on, laughing, cheering, and sometimes crying all the way. You continue to find in this series that family isn’t only through blood, but family of the heart.
I look forward to more of this series and the characters that continue to become a part of my life. Ms. Karlsson has again written a captivating story and while parts are definitely dark, there is plenty of love and light to enjoy.
Nick and Kat are instructed to work as a husband and wife team to find some human traffickers. Jake, new to the agency and to the training, is selected to act as their teenage nephew. They move to a small town, where most of the women act as if they are ‘Stepford Wives’.
As Jake starts school, he becomes friends with Sawyer, Dane and Cole and invites them home. Kat takes on Jake and the boys as if they are her own, feeding and supporting them, and showing them all a love they’ve never known. The three boys come from wealthy families who leave them with staff and don’t even contact them for long periods of time. Kat finds this repugnant and lets the boys live with her, Jake, and Nick.
The interactions between the four boys, Kat, and Nick are such a wonderful part of the story. They spend time with each other, and they all adore ‘Aunt’ Kat. Nick finds himself slowly losing part of the harshness from his life and becoming more caring. The boys offer Nick and Kat sunshine, after living with such darkness, but having any personal emotions on an op make it more dangerous.
We see that Jake has horrible screaming nightmares but can’t talk about his childhood and what causes such terror. I saw his name mentioned for book #6, so I’m sure that one is going to be a tear-jerker when we find out his history.
We get to see Shannon again from the first books, and she’s as kick-ass as usual. She jumps right in to help and doesn’t hesitate to tell Nicky or the others when they are messing up.
Nick tells Kat that he runs things for the mission and she will have to follow his orders. She’s not happy with this aspect since she has worked on her own for so long. She has lived with a mask to cover her real thoughts and emotions when working on ops and Nick is furious when she won’t give him all of her, without the mask. These two spend a lot of time in the story being close and then Nick makes Kat furious. Nick has loved his friend Shannon for so long but now finds that Kat has a place in his heart and needs her sweetness and softness in his life. He tells Kat, “If we do this, it’s my way and I don’t f@ckin’ share. You’re mine. I don’t think I need to explain this to you, but I need to know you get how I work. I know that’s intense, but that’s me.”
This op is expected to take a year due to trying to fit in with the town inhabitants and determine who could be a part of the human trafficking ring. Kat, who is used to being active, finds herself at loose ends. They are provided with an enormous house, expensive clothes with specific directions on when to wear, and all Kat wants is some loose comfortable clothes. She does love to cook so she keeps Nick and the boys happy with all of the amazing meals. They joke about trying to keep four teenage boys fed.
The story is riveting from so many directions, finding more bits of information about the traffickers, along with guns, torture, killings, and more. Nick feels the monster within beginning to wake and he feels the need to torture after finding the first person involved with the trafficking. I could see Shannon offering to deal with the person but Kat surprised me with the intensity of her skills to obtain information. I could just visualize the things done and they fit the storyline. Nick lets the monster out one more time to tie up some loose ends with some horrible criminals and I was happy with the outcome! I’ve seen local news stories on people that have lived undercover for long time periods and also read other books prior to this one. I can’t imagine how the people manage to keep themselves sane with the way they have to live. I would imagine that the longer the time undercover, the harder they become. It’s unfortunate that some crimes can only be handled by such actions. I feel for the police and agents in this capacity, which is similar to the military dealing with stress in their environments.
There is also so much love and laughter with the boys, and sweet and sexy times between Kat and Nick. This book covers a wide range of emotions and I went from teary to laughing throughout the story. When a young girl has escaped and Kat finds her, the boys provide her with comfort and stay with her. The story is reminiscent of when Kavy, Sully, and Cally protected Shannon/Kid when she was assaulted after they first met.
After an amazing, emotional story, Nick realizes that Kat provides him with a light that he was afraid to live in and now can’t live without. “There’s no blackness defining me anymore, only light that I’ve found and built on.”
As with the other stories in this series, my Kindle was almost on fire as I swiped quickly to read each new page. Ms. Karlsson takes you on a ride and all you can do is hang on, laughing, cheering, and sometimes crying all the way. You continue to find in this series that family isn’t only through blood, but family of the heart.
I look forward to more of this series and the characters that continue to become a part of my life. Ms. Karlsson has again written a captivating story and while parts are definitely dark, there is plenty of love and light to enjoy.
October 15, 2014
*I received this book free from the author in exchange for an honest review*
Kat's a chameleon, always having her mask in place when needed, problem is her new partners can see every time she wears it and he doesn't like it one bit. Nick wants to see the real her, not the face she hides behind.
"Katherine Russell is stunning, smart, funny, deadly and getting' ready to share a bed with you for the foreseeable future. You got nothing to say about that other than she's good at her job? Either you're gay or blind," Jakes says pointedly.
Kat is scary good at turning off her emotions to get the job done, but when she's introduced to her "nephew" and then he brings home a few "strays" her mask disappears, the ice surrounding her hearts melts, and all she can think about is how much she loves and wants to protect those boys.
Nick had one love, he lost her when he was but a boy, only to find her again many years later under the cruelest of conditions, though Shannon Kelly has her own knight in shining armor, but that doesn't mean they aren't still the closest of friends. It's time for him to find his own happiness and damn if he doesn't find it in his new partner, Kat.
"I've broken my favorite new toy from playing with it too much like an over eager five-year-old on Christmas."
Undercover and unable to keep their personal emotions at bay Kat and Nick will learn the meaning of family. They will do damn near anything to protect the new family they've created, even if it jeopardized the op. Something's are just more important.
"Please don't call me Aunt Kat. It sounds like the name of some old lady's dead cat that she's had stuffed after it died and still shares her meals with," Kat explains seriously.
I really enjoyed how protective the boys were of Kat and Nick. Jake, Dane, Cole, and Sawyer not only stand up for each other, but also their parents. Their stories are sad and every mothering instinct I have tells me I would have done the same thing as Kat in every scenario.
Into the Blackness was a fantastic read. I absolutely love this series. For anyone who wants to be pulled into a story with corruption, greed, torture, heroes who never back down from a fight, family, humor, and sex this is the series for you.
My Favorite Laughable Moments: I loved every time Dylan "Kel" did or said something to Kat to get even with Nick. Payback can be hilarious when it involves two very jealous alpha men. It's even funnier when all of Shannon's boys get in on it.
"You're gonna lose that fuckin' arm, O'Sullivan," Nick growls from behind us.
"Just keepin' her warm for you," he purrs back suggestively, causing me to roll my eyes dramatically. "Dangerous thing leavin' a pretty single woman like this around."
My Favorite Moment: There are so many great moments in this book. I absolutely loved it when Kat avenges what was done to Sawyer. But my all-time favorite has to be the ending. A special surprise that'll pull at your heartstrings.
Kat's a chameleon, always having her mask in place when needed, problem is her new partners can see every time she wears it and he doesn't like it one bit. Nick wants to see the real her, not the face she hides behind.
"Katherine Russell is stunning, smart, funny, deadly and getting' ready to share a bed with you for the foreseeable future. You got nothing to say about that other than she's good at her job? Either you're gay or blind," Jakes says pointedly.
Kat is scary good at turning off her emotions to get the job done, but when she's introduced to her "nephew" and then he brings home a few "strays" her mask disappears, the ice surrounding her hearts melts, and all she can think about is how much she loves and wants to protect those boys.
Nick had one love, he lost her when he was but a boy, only to find her again many years later under the cruelest of conditions, though Shannon Kelly has her own knight in shining armor, but that doesn't mean they aren't still the closest of friends. It's time for him to find his own happiness and damn if he doesn't find it in his new partner, Kat.
"I've broken my favorite new toy from playing with it too much like an over eager five-year-old on Christmas."
Undercover and unable to keep their personal emotions at bay Kat and Nick will learn the meaning of family. They will do damn near anything to protect the new family they've created, even if it jeopardized the op. Something's are just more important.
"Please don't call me Aunt Kat. It sounds like the name of some old lady's dead cat that she's had stuffed after it died and still shares her meals with," Kat explains seriously.
I really enjoyed how protective the boys were of Kat and Nick. Jake, Dane, Cole, and Sawyer not only stand up for each other, but also their parents. Their stories are sad and every mothering instinct I have tells me I would have done the same thing as Kat in every scenario.
Into the Blackness was a fantastic read. I absolutely love this series. For anyone who wants to be pulled into a story with corruption, greed, torture, heroes who never back down from a fight, family, humor, and sex this is the series for you.
My Favorite Laughable Moments: I loved every time Dylan "Kel" did or said something to Kat to get even with Nick. Payback can be hilarious when it involves two very jealous alpha men. It's even funnier when all of Shannon's boys get in on it.
"You're gonna lose that fuckin' arm, O'Sullivan," Nick growls from behind us.
"Just keepin' her warm for you," he purrs back suggestively, causing me to roll my eyes dramatically. "Dangerous thing leavin' a pretty single woman like this around."
My Favorite Moment: There are so many great moments in this book. I absolutely loved it when Kat avenges what was done to Sawyer. But my all-time favorite has to be the ending. A special surprise that'll pull at your heartstrings.
August 20, 2014
4 stars
There was a lot I loved about this book and yet there were some aspects that didn't really gel for me. This is the 4th book in the Blackness series and only my second read from this author (so far). I read and loved the previous book (Shrouded in Blackness, book 3) and although I really liked this book it didn't make as much of an impact as book 3. Unlike the previous book, it took me a few chapters to really get into the story. The lengths Kat took to secure her mark didn't sit well with me but the author did a good job of weaving this into the romance. Both MC's were very likable and I was rooting for them throughout the book. I do love this authors writing style! It's very engaging with a lot of humor and witty dialogue. I have to say that Ms Karlsson knows how to write some great secondary characters too! I fell in love with the secondary characters just as much as I did the MC's - a ragtag group of friends who ultimately became one big happy family. There were times when I thought situations were a bit far fetched, both MC's were agents undercover as husband and wife with another teen agent playing their nephew. It seemed to me like they all settled into to their role a bit too quickly and the line between reality and play acting was blurred, and for two of the greatest agents in the DCA it should have been easier to distinguish between real feelings and those felt due to constant contact in close vicinity. This wasn't a major problem, the writing style was awesome enough that I found it believable. There were some issues that were resolved way too conveniently, such as the boys adoption and solving their undercover op - I wish these were a little bit more fleshed out. This book was written well, a definite improvement from the last book, POV's were easier to follow and the timeline was clearer. There was some drama (I love a groveling H), some suspense/action and a lot of HOTness during the smexy scenes. I loved that there were some cameos from previous MC's especially from Kieran. Ultimately a great and enjoyable read and I can't wait to read Jakes (& hopefully Caras) story - expected winter 2014. I highly recommend this book (series) to those who love a possessive alpha male, a strong heroine, awesome secondary characters and HEA. Standalone. No cheating. Looking forward to the next Blackness release out in a few weeks!
There was a lot I loved about this book and yet there were some aspects that didn't really gel for me. This is the 4th book in the Blackness series and only my second read from this author (so far). I read and loved the previous book (Shrouded in Blackness, book 3) and although I really liked this book it didn't make as much of an impact as book 3. Unlike the previous book, it took me a few chapters to really get into the story. The lengths Kat took to secure her mark didn't sit well with me but the author did a good job of weaving this into the romance. Both MC's were very likable and I was rooting for them throughout the book. I do love this authors writing style! It's very engaging with a lot of humor and witty dialogue. I have to say that Ms Karlsson knows how to write some great secondary characters too! I fell in love with the secondary characters just as much as I did the MC's - a ragtag group of friends who ultimately became one big happy family. There were times when I thought situations were a bit far fetched, both MC's were agents undercover as husband and wife with another teen agent playing their nephew. It seemed to me like they all settled into to their role a bit too quickly and the line between reality and play acting was blurred, and for two of the greatest agents in the DCA it should have been easier to distinguish between real feelings and those felt due to constant contact in close vicinity. This wasn't a major problem, the writing style was awesome enough that I found it believable. There were some issues that were resolved way too conveniently, such as the boys adoption and solving their undercover op - I wish these were a little bit more fleshed out. This book was written well, a definite improvement from the last book, POV's were easier to follow and the timeline was clearer. There was some drama (I love a groveling H), some suspense/action and a lot of HOTness during the smexy scenes. I loved that there were some cameos from previous MC's especially from Kieran. Ultimately a great and enjoyable read and I can't wait to read Jakes (& hopefully Caras) story - expected winter 2014. I highly recommend this book (series) to those who love a possessive alpha male, a strong heroine, awesome secondary characters and HEA. Standalone. No cheating. Looking forward to the next Blackness release out in a few weeks!
January 3, 2015
Into the Blackness is Book 4 in The Blackness series and actually the first book I read by this author and the series. After having finished the book, I'm definitely one clicking the rest. I also had to remind myself while reading this that the agency they work for has their own set of rules that they play by and nothing gets in the way of what needs to be done.
Katherine "Kat" Russell and Nick Cooper work for the Domestic Crime Agency (DCA) and are two of their top agents. They are assigned to pose as a married couple, raising their nephew Jake (another DCA Agent), to infiltrate a human trafficking organization that is being run out of a suburban neighborhood called Maybelle. Seems easy enough until they learn how long the operation itself might take and how deep undercover they must go.
As Kat and Nick integrate their lives into Maybelle and Jake pretends to be high school student, he makes friends with some of the boys in the neighborhood. They quickly realize that the kids are emotionally and physically abandoned by their parents and take them into their own home, essentially adopting them. Kat and Nick begin to love the kids as their own and start having feelings for one another.
"Group hug," Cole bellows and runs into the room followed closely by Dane and Jake.The three take the remaining open parts of her body and squeeze the hell out of her until she giggles.
Human trafficking takes a little bit of a step back and the story focuses on them becoming a family for about half the book. This didn't really bother me because I started falling in love with the family dynamic of the story. We get a bit of Nick's back story of how he believed himself in love once to his now best friend, how Jake has had trauma in his past that made him join the DCA straight out of High School and how Kat's last Ops have hurt her.
This was a fun, sexy, sweet, touching and towards the end, quite thrilling read and I can't wait to read more. I'm so looking forward to Jake's story.
Katherine "Kat" Russell and Nick Cooper work for the Domestic Crime Agency (DCA) and are two of their top agents. They are assigned to pose as a married couple, raising their nephew Jake (another DCA Agent), to infiltrate a human trafficking organization that is being run out of a suburban neighborhood called Maybelle. Seems easy enough until they learn how long the operation itself might take and how deep undercover they must go.
As Kat and Nick integrate their lives into Maybelle and Jake pretends to be high school student, he makes friends with some of the boys in the neighborhood. They quickly realize that the kids are emotionally and physically abandoned by their parents and take them into their own home, essentially adopting them. Kat and Nick begin to love the kids as their own and start having feelings for one another.
"Group hug," Cole bellows and runs into the room followed closely by Dane and Jake.The three take the remaining open parts of her body and squeeze the hell out of her until she giggles.
Human trafficking takes a little bit of a step back and the story focuses on them becoming a family for about half the book. This didn't really bother me because I started falling in love with the family dynamic of the story. We get a bit of Nick's back story of how he believed himself in love once to his now best friend, how Jake has had trauma in his past that made him join the DCA straight out of High School and how Kat's last Ops have hurt her.
This was a fun, sexy, sweet, touching and towards the end, quite thrilling read and I can't wait to read more. I'm so looking forward to Jake's story.
December 12, 2014
Was given this for a review was a little lost as I hadn't read the other books but was easy to figure it out, really enjoyed this book will be getting the others to start from the beginning after Christmas. This book was really good!!
Nick Cooper is many things in life. He’s a vicious enforcer for a crime family. He’s a monster that tortures with a smirk tattooed on his lips. He’s an olive-skinned god, mysterious and captivating. He’s the best undercover field agent in the Domestic Crime Agency. He’s my partner for the next year. I have to play his wife which will test my abilities as an agent. Nick isn’t the type of man I’m used to dealing with. He’ll push me, tempt me, hurt me and eventually end up on the business end of a weapon I’m wielding. This mission will change everything I’ve ever known about people and myself. I can only hope I’ll survive it.
Katherine Russell is many things in life. She’s a chameleon, able to change and adapt to any situation. She’s lethal…as lethal as me. She’s a golden-haired ray of sunshine. She’s the best field agent the Domestic Crime Agency has ever had. She’s my partner for the next year. No, she’s my wife. There are worse things in life than sharing a fake marital bed with a gorgeous woman for a year. Trust me. Kat’s more than a beautiful woman though, and I have the feeling she’s going to challenge me, battle me, infuriate me and test all the walls I’ve spent a lifetime building around myself. Our mission is to find and eliminate a human trafficking kingpin. It’ll be child’s play compared to the journey my new partner is going to take me on. If I can manage to shed the monster of my past I’ll no longer be pulled into the blackness. I’ll be able to bask in the light that glows from every pore of Katherine Russell.
If only it were that simple.
Nick Cooper is many things in life. He’s a vicious enforcer for a crime family. He’s a monster that tortures with a smirk tattooed on his lips. He’s an olive-skinned god, mysterious and captivating. He’s the best undercover field agent in the Domestic Crime Agency. He’s my partner for the next year. I have to play his wife which will test my abilities as an agent. Nick isn’t the type of man I’m used to dealing with. He’ll push me, tempt me, hurt me and eventually end up on the business end of a weapon I’m wielding. This mission will change everything I’ve ever known about people and myself. I can only hope I’ll survive it.
Katherine Russell is many things in life. She’s a chameleon, able to change and adapt to any situation. She’s lethal…as lethal as me. She’s a golden-haired ray of sunshine. She’s the best field agent the Domestic Crime Agency has ever had. She’s my partner for the next year. No, she’s my wife. There are worse things in life than sharing a fake marital bed with a gorgeous woman for a year. Trust me. Kat’s more than a beautiful woman though, and I have the feeling she’s going to challenge me, battle me, infuriate me and test all the walls I’ve spent a lifetime building around myself. Our mission is to find and eliminate a human trafficking kingpin. It’ll be child’s play compared to the journey my new partner is going to take me on. If I can manage to shed the monster of my past I’ll no longer be pulled into the blackness. I’ll be able to bask in the light that glows from every pore of Katherine Russell.
If only it were that simple.
October 8, 2014
Absolutely loved it!
This series gets better and better as each book comes along. I have loved Nick throughout the series and was hoping to see him get a chance to prove his worthiness to be a part of Shannon's family. He certainly did that with this book. I can't believe how perfectly Kat matched just what he needed. I loved her super hard softness. As always in this series, the blackness was there in spades. I sometimes can't believe the directions these stories take. I love never knowing what to expect.
Kat and Nick are thrown together as strangers playing husband and wife on a long term op. They also take Jake, a new 18 year old recruit, with them as their fake nephew. After Jake's first day back in high school, the couple acquire 3 more teens who have basically been abandoned. They begin to form a very close if non-traditional family while waiting on their very slow moving op to develop any leads. Along the way, Kat reveals both her emotional teary side and her fierce mother bear inside. Nick finds his inner caveman and screws things up but also uses it to protect the family he grows to love and wants to keep despite how it affects his career. When events in the teens lives and events on the op begin to hear up, the family is tested to its limits. Can I just say that was a price of gory but ingenious writing. I'd love to give more details, but I'm not a fan of spoilers. Read it and see. It was amazing!
This series gets better and better as each book comes along. I have loved Nick throughout the series and was hoping to see him get a chance to prove his worthiness to be a part of Shannon's family. He certainly did that with this book. I can't believe how perfectly Kat matched just what he needed. I loved her super hard softness. As always in this series, the blackness was there in spades. I sometimes can't believe the directions these stories take. I love never knowing what to expect.
Kat and Nick are thrown together as strangers playing husband and wife on a long term op. They also take Jake, a new 18 year old recruit, with them as their fake nephew. After Jake's first day back in high school, the couple acquire 3 more teens who have basically been abandoned. They begin to form a very close if non-traditional family while waiting on their very slow moving op to develop any leads. Along the way, Kat reveals both her emotional teary side and her fierce mother bear inside. Nick finds his inner caveman and screws things up but also uses it to protect the family he grows to love and wants to keep despite how it affects his career. When events in the teens lives and events on the op begin to hear up, the family is tested to its limits. Can I just say that was a price of gory but ingenious writing. I'd love to give more details, but I'm not a fan of spoilers. Read it and see. It was amazing!
December 17, 2016
There were a lot of things about this novel I really liked. The dialogue was well written, and the character development was outstanding. I really felt like you new all the characters on a personal level. The plot however, was a little scattered. It just didn’t feel realistic. I liked the original foundation of the plot. Two clandestine operatives are assigned on an undercover op, they fall in love, ect… The progression was were it hit a speed bump for me with the illogical turn of events.
As for the main characters I loved Nick even though he had a bad habit of putting his foot in his mouth at the worst possible times. I have a certain affection for dark haired, blue eyed hunks. Kat Russell was also likable if not a little overly dramatic at times. She was fierce and protective of those she loved while also able to show some vulnerability. Jake was probably one of my favorite characters of the book, and I kept wishing for a little more of him. I guess I will have to read his story next.
This is the first Norma Jeanne Karlsson novel I’ve read and I enjoyed it. Was it one of my favorites? No. But I will probably surf around and read a couple more of her novels. I tend to read some series in my own sort of order. Usually starting with the one with the most intriguing plot. I would definitely recommend this book because overall I liked it.
Check out more of my reviews on my blog romance2review.com
As for the main characters I loved Nick even though he had a bad habit of putting his foot in his mouth at the worst possible times. I have a certain affection for dark haired, blue eyed hunks. Kat Russell was also likable if not a little overly dramatic at times. She was fierce and protective of those she loved while also able to show some vulnerability. Jake was probably one of my favorite characters of the book, and I kept wishing for a little more of him. I guess I will have to read his story next.
This is the first Norma Jeanne Karlsson novel I’ve read and I enjoyed it. Was it one of my favorites? No. But I will probably surf around and read a couple more of her novels. I tend to read some series in my own sort of order. Usually starting with the one with the most intriguing plot. I would definitely recommend this book because overall I liked it.
Check out more of my reviews on my blog romance2review.com
September 12, 2014
Katherine Kat Russell and Nick Cooper were working for the Domestic Crime Agency better known as the DCA. Their assignment should be easy. Pose as husband and wife and infiltrate a human trafficking organization that is being run out of a suburban neighborhood. Along with Jake, another DCA officer, posing as their nephew, Kat and Nick begin to fit in with the neighbors but discover that while everything appears perfect on the surface there are several neglected kids that live in the neighborhood. They invite these boys to live with them. Being a mom brings out the softer side of Kat and the protective side of Nick. Their assignment has now become not so easy or strictly professional either. Kat and Nick begin to develop real feelings for each other and attempt to turn this fake family into a real one. When a request from the DCA aimed at Kat is discovered then all bets are off. Kat feels betrayed and pulls away from everyone including Nick. Can they go back to working together for the sake of the assignment or has the DCA finally asked for too much? This is my favorite book in the Blackness series. The story was full of drama and suspense and you might think you know how it is going to turn out but you cannot imagine the twists and turns. I hope there are several more stories to come in this series.
January 4, 2015
I was gifted this book for an honest review. I've not read the other 3 books that came out before this one. So I had no idea what this series was about before reading this, but I will say it did not disappoint! You will be a little lost from the back story but the author does a good job filling in the blanks so you know what's happening and can kinda piece it together for yourself.
Kat and Nic work for the Domestic Crime Agency. Kat has finished an assignment where she had to use her body to help her get further in her mission. Nic was on an assignment and undercover for his family for years. But now both assignments are done they are now going on an assignment together as a married couple while looking for a human trafficking ring. Kat has to become a Stepford Wife. And they have a son as well, a pretend son. Jake, who is also a field agent that looks alot younger than he is is enrolled in the local high school.
As they start to interact together all 3 become close. Jake makes friends at school who have problems with there own parents. Parent's who can't be bothered to even be in their children's lives! Kat and Nic fall in love with the boys as well and decide they want to adopt them.
This story is really well written and keeps your attention. I honestly can't wait to read the other books! Especially the next one about Jake!
Kat and Nic work for the Domestic Crime Agency. Kat has finished an assignment where she had to use her body to help her get further in her mission. Nic was on an assignment and undercover for his family for years. But now both assignments are done they are now going on an assignment together as a married couple while looking for a human trafficking ring. Kat has to become a Stepford Wife. And they have a son as well, a pretend son. Jake, who is also a field agent that looks alot younger than he is is enrolled in the local high school.
As they start to interact together all 3 become close. Jake makes friends at school who have problems with there own parents. Parent's who can't be bothered to even be in their children's lives! Kat and Nic fall in love with the boys as well and decide they want to adopt them.
This story is really well written and keeps your attention. I honestly can't wait to read the other books! Especially the next one about Jake!
December 13, 2014
This is the fourth book in the series. I started with this one and was a little lost as to how some of the characters knew each but that information was revealed as the story went on. Would I recommend reading all of the other books first? Of course but that's because it gives you background information and this author is a good author. While my normal genre isn't romantic thrillers (I read any romance but BBW and Paranormal have been my normal go to. But maybe not anymore. Might have to add romantic thrillers or maybe just this author.),this is a really good book that captured my attention. The characters are strong and well defined and developed. Kat is one kick ass woman that has a soft side as well. While Nick is rough and tumble and likes to take charge; he also has a soft side. They are protectors through and through. They are both so good at their jobs you wonder if their love is real. As the story plays out you can see that it is. I loved seeing the relationships in this story play out as well as the story line. The story line is solid and so is the plot. The twists were pretty good and the story kept me mostly on my toes. I did see a few things coming but that's okay. It didn't hinder the story line or plot at all. This book is a must read.
June 20, 2016
The best thing with all NJK's books is the subtle mindf*ck that they create. Her hero's are bad bad alpha asshats, there is just no way to pretty them up, they are hard, and crass and sometimes such complete assholes I for one spend key assholish behavioral moments visualizing myself flying into the pages and giving them a good smack across the head with my cast-iron frying pan.
But that's the whole Mindscrew, because while they stomp around peeing circles around the h's, chanting mine mine mine, and giving "theirs" the new title of My..ie my woman, my wife, my girl, my (insert body part here), NJK's h's are very quietly and completely ruling them. Quite content to let the big guy's believe the whole "I'm in charge of all shit", while in truth, these ladies own them all, boots, bods, bad attitude and all. And the best part, by the end of her books it's become painfully clear even to them.
So the romantic in me can enjoy the often bumpy ride that Ms Karlsson creates, and the hard won feminist in me can enjoy the beauty of women who don't take any bunk, never let their hormones rule and allow their delicate monsters to believe they are in charge while not making me want to slingshot my burning bra's at them.:P
But that's the whole Mindscrew, because while they stomp around peeing circles around the h's, chanting mine mine mine, and giving "theirs" the new title of My..ie my woman, my wife, my girl, my (insert body part here), NJK's h's are very quietly and completely ruling them. Quite content to let the big guy's believe the whole "I'm in charge of all shit", while in truth, these ladies own them all, boots, bods, bad attitude and all. And the best part, by the end of her books it's become painfully clear even to them.
So the romantic in me can enjoy the often bumpy ride that Ms Karlsson creates, and the hard won feminist in me can enjoy the beauty of women who don't take any bunk, never let their hormones rule and allow their delicate monsters to believe they are in charge while not making me want to slingshot my burning bra's at them.:P
December 15, 2014
In to the Blackness is the 4th book in the Blackness series. This the first book of the series that I read and I can’t wait to read the rest! This is the story of two agents of the Domestic Crime Agency. They both very good agents that have literally lived breathed and poured their souls in to their jobs. They are both are looking into the blackness. Kat has had to use her mind and body too much to complete her missions. Nick has spent 10 years undercover as an enforcer for his mob boss Uncle.
Their new assignment is to poses as a married couple in pursuit of human traffickers. Along the way they form a family with Jake, a new young agent and 3 teenage boys that Jake brings home from school. The interaction between the boys, Kat and Nick is a driving force of the book. The boys bring love and light into the agent’s life. Nick and Kat in turn bring love and stability to the boys.
I can’t wait for Jake’s story!
***I was gifted a copy of this book in return for an honest review***
Their new assignment is to poses as a married couple in pursuit of human traffickers. Along the way they form a family with Jake, a new young agent and 3 teenage boys that Jake brings home from school. The interaction between the boys, Kat and Nick is a driving force of the book. The boys bring love and light into the agent’s life. Nick and Kat in turn bring love and stability to the boys.
I can’t wait for Jake’s story!
***I was gifted a copy of this book in return for an honest review***
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May 22, 2015So much potential but,,,,
I have read 3 of this authors books. I have really enjoyed the story line and really would love to buy all of the books but I don't think I can make it through them. I read a lot, like 4-8 books a week and I love supporting and finding new authors. The story line is interesting and I enjoy the characters HOWEVER,,, there is a horrible over use of the word "purr", "growl" and a couple of others that I can't think of off the top of my head. I am actually 1/2 way through my 3rd by this author and am considering not finishing. I know it may be a silly complaint and I usually get irritated with reviewers that are over critical but I truly want to read these books and am hoping the author will change this in the future. It's taking away from the quality that these stories could have. Sometimes a reader can assume the way a character is saying things without overusing and repeating the same verbs over and over again!
I have read 3 of this authors books. I have really enjoyed the story line and really would love to buy all of the books but I don't think I can make it through them. I read a lot, like 4-8 books a week and I love supporting and finding new authors. The story line is interesting and I enjoy the characters HOWEVER,,, there is a horrible over use of the word "purr", "growl" and a couple of others that I can't think of off the top of my head. I am actually 1/2 way through my 3rd by this author and am considering not finishing. I know it may be a silly complaint and I usually get irritated with reviewers that are over critical but I truly want to read these books and am hoping the author will change this in the future. It's taking away from the quality that these stories could have. Sometimes a reader can assume the way a character is saying things without overusing and repeating the same verbs over and over again!
September 24, 2014
WOW! Into the Blackness by Norma Jeanne Karlsson was so not what I was expecting. To be able to get into these characters’ heads was an amazing experience. I have enjoyed this entire series and feel like they are family.
I liked the whole idea of bringing in two headstrong people and making them work as a team. Most of the time it wouldn’t work. There were times it seemed like it wasn’t going to work. However, somehow, it did and the outcome was to the benefit of many.
I could just imagine how hard of a time that this author had in bringing this story together in a way that kept the reader engaged and on the edge of their seat. This is one of my favorite series of this year and I have not stopped raving about it.
This book gets 5 stars and a big high five. I like a lot of authors, but this author has made her way onto my short list of authors that I love.
I liked the whole idea of bringing in two headstrong people and making them work as a team. Most of the time it wouldn’t work. There were times it seemed like it wasn’t going to work. However, somehow, it did and the outcome was to the benefit of many.
I could just imagine how hard of a time that this author had in bringing this story together in a way that kept the reader engaged and on the edge of their seat. This is one of my favorite series of this year and I have not stopped raving about it.
This book gets 5 stars and a big high five. I like a lot of authors, but this author has made her way onto my short list of authors that I love.
December 10, 2014
The beginning of the book (mostly the first chapter-chapter and a half) starts out a little slow, but more than makes up for it the further you go along. Parts of the book made me laugh out loud, others brought tears to my eyes. The characters are all well-rounded, and I could actually picture them exactly as written. I also loved that the book was written how one talks, and from first person perspective; not boring old he said, she said, end scene. Only thing I had an issue with was the introduction of Shanny. I had to re-read that paragraph a few times to understand how old she was. There's espionage, torture, sex (actually a LOT of sex), love, trust, and family. There were a few spelling errors, but if you can get past them, it's a great book. I downloaded and read this book in the same night. I couldn't put it down! I cannot wait to read the rest of the series.
December 19, 2014
I just finished this book a few days ago. I was immediately absorbed into the story. I also didn't realize this was a part of a series. That being said though, I had no problem following the story. I'm not usually a fan of the lead female character. I loved Kat though. She wasn't that helpless whiney female that we see all too often in romance. She was gutsy. Edgy. She didn't need a man to complete her. Nick was a great alpha male. He was take control and wouldn't put up with anybody's crap. Including Kat's. I loved the story. The suspense level was perfect for this story. Two secret agents sent into perfect world suburbia to uncover a human trafficking ring. The author did a good job at keeping you guessing throughout the entire book. I will definitely read more by her.
September 22, 2014
Wow! That is all I can say! Wow! I am so ready for the next two books so I can get to know Jake, and more of the other characters. I learn something new about all of them each book, and cannot get enough. This is a series I wish will go on forever, although I know it will not. I do know as soon as they are available in paperback I will be purchasing them so I can have e-copies and paperback books! I liked meeting new people again and seeing their lives evolve! I will say it again...Brilliant writing, nothing I have read has captivated me like this. I made time to read these four books, finished all of them in less than a month, I never read one book in that time!
September 29, 2014
WOW! This series has everything a story should have. I laughed, I cried, I loved with every one of the characters in this series. Emotions will have a roller coaster ride. Shannon, (Kid), has what every girl dreams of, family that love her, protect her, hold her, sleep with her, support her, give her everything she needs with out asking. This unconventional family will draw you right into their lives. There's suspense, mystery, love, grief and a lot of laughs. Love comes knocking at the door, along with danger and betrayal. This author nailed it! I give this a 5+ star rating. I loved this series.
October 6, 2014
Once again Norma J. Karlsson has proven that even monsters deserve a second chance. I loved that we finally get to know more about Nick Cooper. In the previous one we saw a glimpse of him yet with Kat his partner he shows his true colors. My heart broke for Kat and her kids especially Jake. All these people have one thing in common and that is no love. They are afraid to grasp it and man the possibility of it happening is mind blowing. I have to say I applaud Kat for taking all of Nicks shit and loved that she never backed down. There’s a lot more of Jake I would like to know and can’t wait for his story. Great job.
more at http://melenasreviews.wordpress.com
more at http://melenasreviews.wordpress.com
November 25, 2014
I love this series! It's not quite as dark and gritty as the others in the series, but it still has the suspense and romance. I loved Nicky and Kat and the boys (can't wait for all their books!!). The book starts out about their mission and quickly evolves into a book with family at the center. Ms Karlsson takes readers on an emotional roller coaster as Nick and Kat learn to work together (and love together) and the boys reveal their stories. My fingers couldn't swipe fast enough to keep up with how fast I sucked this book down.
Characters appear from previous books (of course Shannon and her boys), which is enjoyable - I love catching up on what they're up to.
Characters appear from previous books (of course Shannon and her boys), which is enjoyable - I love catching up on what they're up to.
November 22, 2016
Meh
This book had an OK premise, but as the book went on, it got more & more implausible. Also, I'd be reading along, and suddenly the timeline advanced without any break or indicator that there was a change. Another common problem was the improper use of pronouns throughout. That's like fingernails on a chalkboard for me.
In addition to the editorial changes, this book needs to be proofread. Spell check is not a proofreader.
It's not a horrible book, but I won't be reading other books in this series.
This book had an OK premise, but as the book went on, it got more & more implausible. Also, I'd be reading along, and suddenly the timeline advanced without any break or indicator that there was a change. Another common problem was the improper use of pronouns throughout. That's like fingernails on a chalkboard for me.
In addition to the editorial changes, this book needs to be proofread. Spell check is not a proofreader.
It's not a horrible book, but I won't be reading other books in this series.
February 7, 2017
You don't meet very many heroines that are as fierce as Katherine Russell. This has just become one of my all time favourite books!!
August 22, 2014
3.5 Stars
I really liked this book. I didn't read the others in the series but I was able to read it as a standalone and enjoy it the same. A lot happens and by the end I was definitely a fan of this author. I'm not going to read the previous because the blurbs didn't really catch me and I'm quite lazy at the moment, but I will read the next ones to come.
I really liked this book. I didn't read the others in the series but I was able to read it as a standalone and enjoy it the same. A lot happens and by the end I was definitely a fan of this author. I'm not going to read the previous because the blurbs didn't really catch me and I'm quite lazy at the moment, but I will read the next ones to come.
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