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The Brodies of Alaska #3
Against the Tide
Secrets—and safety—melt under a midnight sun…
Liv Chandler is running for her life, and the cops haven’t been able to do a thing to help. But there’s one man who makes her feel safe, no matter what…rugged charter boat captain Rafe Brodie.
To Rafe, Liv is a beautiful mystery, one he can’t ignore. He means to unearth her secrets, and in the process, if luck is on his side, maybe the spark between them will ignite.
But Liv’s past is more dangerous than Rafe could guess, and when his first mate turns up dead, she fears that she’s next. That there’s something else coming she can’t see. That even Rafe and the remote village of Valdez, Alaska can’t protect her forever…
Liv Chandler is running for her life, and the cops haven’t been able to do a thing to help. But there’s one man who makes her feel safe, no matter what…rugged charter boat captain Rafe Brodie.
To Rafe, Liv is a beautiful mystery, one he can’t ignore. He means to unearth her secrets, and in the process, if luck is on his side, maybe the spark between them will ignite.
But Liv’s past is more dangerous than Rafe could guess, and when his first mate turns up dead, she fears that she’s next. That there’s something else coming she can’t see. That even Rafe and the remote village of Valdez, Alaska can’t protect her forever…
352 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 26, 2015
445 people are currently reading
1402 people want to read
About the author
Kat Martin
188 books3,171 followersKathleen Kelly Martin (aka Kathy Lawrence, Kasey Mars)
Kathleen Kelly was born on 14 July 1947 in the Central Valley of California, USA. She obtained a degree in Anthropology and also studied History at the University of California in Santa Barbara. She was a real estate broker, when she met her future husband, Larry Jay Martin. A short time after the two became acquainted, Larry asked her to read an unpublished manuscript of an historical western he'd written. Kat fell in love with both the book and the author! Then, after doing some editing for him, she thought she'd try her own hand at writing. She moved on to become a full time writer.
Published since 1988, she signed her books with her married name, Kat Martin, but she also used two pseudonyms: Kathy Lawrence for a book in collaboration with her husband Larry Jay Martin, and Kasey Mars for her first contemporary romances. The New York Times bestselling writer, among her many awards, has won the prestigious RT Book Review Magazine Career Achievement Award. To date, Kat has over eleven million copies of her books in print. She has been published in seventeen foreign countries, including England, South Africa, Spain, Argentina, Germany, Italy, Greece, Norway, Sweden, Russia, Bulgaria, China, and Korea.
Currently residing with her husband, a Western-writer and photographer, in Missoula, Montana, USA. But when they are not writing, they also enjoy skiing and traveling, particularly to Europe.
"I've always loved books. I was an avid reader, with any number of my own stories rolling around in my head. Writing them down seemed a logical step."
"I love anything old," Kat says. "I love to travel and especially like to visit the places where my books are set. My husband and I often stay in out-of-the-way inns and houses built in times past. It's fun and it gives a wonderful sense of a by-gone era."
Kathleen Kelly was born on 14 July 1947 in the Central Valley of California, USA. She obtained a degree in Anthropology and also studied History at the University of California in Santa Barbara. She was a real estate broker, when she met her future husband, Larry Jay Martin. A short time after the two became acquainted, Larry asked her to read an unpublished manuscript of an historical western he'd written. Kat fell in love with both the book and the author! Then, after doing some editing for him, she thought she'd try her own hand at writing. She moved on to become a full time writer.
Published since 1988, she signed her books with her married name, Kat Martin, but she also used two pseudonyms: Kathy Lawrence for a book in collaboration with her husband Larry Jay Martin, and Kasey Mars for her first contemporary romances. The New York Times bestselling writer, among her many awards, has won the prestigious RT Book Review Magazine Career Achievement Award. To date, Kat has over eleven million copies of her books in print. She has been published in seventeen foreign countries, including England, South Africa, Spain, Argentina, Germany, Italy, Greece, Norway, Sweden, Russia, Bulgaria, China, and Korea.
Currently residing with her husband, a Western-writer and photographer, in Missoula, Montana, USA. But when they are not writing, they also enjoy skiing and traveling, particularly to Europe.
"I've always loved books. I was an avid reader, with any number of my own stories rolling around in my head. Writing them down seemed a logical step."
"I love anything old," Kat says. "I love to travel and especially like to visit the places where my books are set. My husband and I often stay in out-of-the-way inns and houses built in times past. It's fun and it gives a wonderful sense of a by-gone era."
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 198 reviews
June 8, 2016
Against the Tide by Kat Martin is a 2015 Kensington publication. I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Kat Martin is a seasoned author with the ability to write across more than one romance genre. However, she seems to have found a nice niche in the romantic suspense category and usually turns out solid dependable stories.
Sadly, ‘Against the Tide’ is not one of her stronger novels.
Liv Chandler is on the run from the law, but has settled down in Alaska, running her own diner. But, when a local man, who was loved by all, is inexplicably murdered, Liv finds herself helping Rafe Brodie, a boat captain, find out what really happened to his colleague and friend. But before long, the chemistry between them, that had been simmering just under the surface, boils over, making Liv happier than she’s ever been, until her past finally catches up with her. Now, Liv is in real danger and once the whole truth comes out, she will lose Rafe forever.
I really struggled with how to word this review. The plot is a little murky, and has some gaping holes in it. But, I can tolerate a fair amount of implausibility, so that's not necessarily a deal breaker.
What really turned me off of this book was the attitude of nearly every single male character in the story. I’m not kidding, the word ‘male chauvinist’ was actually used once, which made me think the book was written back in the 70’s or 80’s. If that had been the case, I would have chalked everything up to the time era, and would probably have laughed it off, but this book is not all that old.
Rafe was a caveman, and while I’m not a card carrying, flag waving feminist, I didn’t find his bossing Liv around all that sexy. I think being swept up in the strong arms of a man sounds romantic sometimes, but being picked up and thrown over his shoulder against my will … not so much.
There were secondary characters that behaved far worse though, making me wonder if this was the best message to send on how mature adults treat one another in a relationship, and again, I had the feeling I had been transported to another decade, especially since the women seemed to lap it up, which bothered me even more.
So, since this is a book review and not my personal platform, suffice it to say, the combination of plot holes and my issues with the characterizations took me out of the story.
I have a new release by Kat Martin in my TBR pile and I so I hope this was just a one off.
2 stars
Kat Martin is a seasoned author with the ability to write across more than one romance genre. However, she seems to have found a nice niche in the romantic suspense category and usually turns out solid dependable stories.
Sadly, ‘Against the Tide’ is not one of her stronger novels.
Liv Chandler is on the run from the law, but has settled down in Alaska, running her own diner. But, when a local man, who was loved by all, is inexplicably murdered, Liv finds herself helping Rafe Brodie, a boat captain, find out what really happened to his colleague and friend. But before long, the chemistry between them, that had been simmering just under the surface, boils over, making Liv happier than she’s ever been, until her past finally catches up with her. Now, Liv is in real danger and once the whole truth comes out, she will lose Rafe forever.
I really struggled with how to word this review. The plot is a little murky, and has some gaping holes in it. But, I can tolerate a fair amount of implausibility, so that's not necessarily a deal breaker.
What really turned me off of this book was the attitude of nearly every single male character in the story. I’m not kidding, the word ‘male chauvinist’ was actually used once, which made me think the book was written back in the 70’s or 80’s. If that had been the case, I would have chalked everything up to the time era, and would probably have laughed it off, but this book is not all that old.
Rafe was a caveman, and while I’m not a card carrying, flag waving feminist, I didn’t find his bossing Liv around all that sexy. I think being swept up in the strong arms of a man sounds romantic sometimes, but being picked up and thrown over his shoulder against my will … not so much.
There were secondary characters that behaved far worse though, making me wonder if this was the best message to send on how mature adults treat one another in a relationship, and again, I had the feeling I had been transported to another decade, especially since the women seemed to lap it up, which bothered me even more.
So, since this is a book review and not my personal platform, suffice it to say, the combination of plot holes and my issues with the characterizations took me out of the story.
I have a new release by Kat Martin in my TBR pile and I so I hope this was just a one off.
2 stars
May 26, 2015
Against The Tide by the incomparable Kat Martin is a veritable roller coaster ride of action and suspense with a sizzling romance that grabs the attention.
Olivia Chandler has been on the run from a criminal element and ends up in Valdez, Alaska as the new owner of the Pelican Cafe. She tries to lead an under the radar life, but when it comes to boat captain Rafe Brodie, under the radar is a bit difficult.
Rafe Brodie is not going to sit idly by and let the murderer of one of his boat hands go free. When Liv and Rafe combine forces to hunt for the murderer they are in for a more than they bargained for including an attraction to one another that cannot be denied. For as much as Liv has been attemepting to steer clear of the attractive Rafe, he welcomes the most evident sparks that ignite quickly.
Along with the imminent danger that follows the pair, the budding romance that drifts between Rafe and Olivia makes Against the Tide a must read. Rafe and Olivia are strong characters with a lot of conviction and determination. They play well off one another and following along with their trials and tribulations is a thrilling quest.
Olivia Chandler has been on the run from a criminal element and ends up in Valdez, Alaska as the new owner of the Pelican Cafe. She tries to lead an under the radar life, but when it comes to boat captain Rafe Brodie, under the radar is a bit difficult.
Rafe Brodie is not going to sit idly by and let the murderer of one of his boat hands go free. When Liv and Rafe combine forces to hunt for the murderer they are in for a more than they bargained for including an attraction to one another that cannot be denied. For as much as Liv has been attemepting to steer clear of the attractive Rafe, he welcomes the most evident sparks that ignite quickly.
Along with the imminent danger that follows the pair, the budding romance that drifts between Rafe and Olivia makes Against the Tide a must read. Rafe and Olivia are strong characters with a lot of conviction and determination. They play well off one another and following along with their trials and tribulations is a thrilling quest.
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June 12, 2015
3.5 stars
This was my first novel by Kat Martin and I must admit that the story is far more enjoyable than I first thought. A gripping and intense romantic suspense with real, deep going characters who actually build up a relationship.
The plot is not something new, it's a well-used receipt in this subgenre, but I don't mind knowing the curse the story will take, and since it's fairly difficult to create a new plot-line here, this 'flaw' will be excused.
The suspense part got out of hand at some points, and also I enjoyed it and was really engaged into the whole mystery thing, it overshadowed the romance and made the story as a whole somehow inharmonious.
This was my first novel by Kat Martin and I must admit that the story is far more enjoyable than I first thought. A gripping and intense romantic suspense with real, deep going characters who actually build up a relationship.
The plot is not something new, it's a well-used receipt in this subgenre, but I don't mind knowing the curse the story will take, and since it's fairly difficult to create a new plot-line here, this 'flaw' will be excused.
The suspense part got out of hand at some points, and also I enjoyed it and was really engaged into the whole mystery thing, it overshadowed the romance and made the story as a whole somehow inharmonious.
May 22, 2022
Didn't Finish. I just couldn't anymore. I've liked this series. But this one, yikes. Good thing man is psychic (no, this isn't a paranormal book, he isn't) because there nothing that indicates that woman is half way interested. If we weren't reading her thoughts too this book would be really, really creepy. In fact considering in this book men just *know* what a woman really needs/thinks/wants/whatever I'm just going to go with really, really gross and creepy.
December 16, 2017
Last book of this series. I loved reading all the brother's stories. Very good series!
May 26, 2015
ARC provided by the Publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I have read all of Kat Martin's books and this is one of the best. Scorching romance and a suspense plot that has you wondering where it is all going to lead. It just doesn't get any better than Against the Tide. As #3 in the series, you get references to Rafe's brothers, but the part they play is very small in this story. It can be read as a standalone if you haven't read the others.
Olivia has owned the diner in Valdez, AK for about 6 months. She came here to hid and her backstory is heartbreaking. Rafe has been admiring her from afar but she ignores him. The last thing Olivia wants is a relationship with a man. Early in the morning Rafe's first mate, Scotty, is found dead on the dock next to Rafe's boat. As a small town it is difficult to believe that a local did this. Olivia also knows Scotty and is mad as hell that this could happen to such a nice young man and she is determined that his killer will be caught. She feels she owes it to him for one she couldn't help. She and Rafe join together to find out why. Rafe is all for anything that will put Olivia next to him in any way, but especially in his bed. As they follow the meager clues in Scotty's death they come across something much more sinister and deadly. Something that could lead to big trouble for Olivia.
I have read all of Kat Martin's books and this is one of the best. Scorching romance and a suspense plot that has you wondering where it is all going to lead. It just doesn't get any better than Against the Tide. As #3 in the series, you get references to Rafe's brothers, but the part they play is very small in this story. It can be read as a standalone if you haven't read the others.
Olivia has owned the diner in Valdez, AK for about 6 months. She came here to hid and her backstory is heartbreaking. Rafe has been admiring her from afar but she ignores him. The last thing Olivia wants is a relationship with a man. Early in the morning Rafe's first mate, Scotty, is found dead on the dock next to Rafe's boat. As a small town it is difficult to believe that a local did this. Olivia also knows Scotty and is mad as hell that this could happen to such a nice young man and she is determined that his killer will be caught. She feels she owes it to him for one she couldn't help. She and Rafe join together to find out why. Rafe is all for anything that will put Olivia next to him in any way, but especially in his bed. As they follow the meager clues in Scotty's death they come across something much more sinister and deadly. Something that could lead to big trouble for Olivia.
May 26, 2015
3.75 Stars. A compelling and engrossing read. The characters were well fleshed out, and the story had good flow. The romance was well done. I questioned Liv's motivations at times, but still a worthwhile read. The setting was beautifully done, as well.
June 3, 2015
This was the third book in the Brodies of Alaska series and in my opinion, the best. Olivia Chandler owned the diner in Valdez, Alaska. Rafe Brodie owned a trio of charter boats. He'd had his eye on Olivia for quite some time but she seemed to have a habit of avoiding him. With his killer good looks and stunning build, Olivia knew Rafe was trouble and that was something she couldn't afford, not when she was running from people who wanted to kill her. When one of Rafe' s workers and friends is murdered, he and Olivia end up working together to find the killer. It's Rafe' s chance to get to know her better if he can just get her to open up to him. The chemistry between them isn't a problem. Their physical relationship is everything they'd both dreamed of and more but when Olivia' s secrets threaten to come between them, Rafe asks his brother to run a background check on her. What he learns is stunning, but that's not the worst of his problems. In investigating his friend's murder, he and Olivia uncover what appears to be a sinister plot to blow up the oil pipeline.
This book has it all, action, danger, suspense, hot, sexy romance and a gorgeous Alaskan setting. Once I started I didn't want to put it down! Olivia was a strong, determined woman, fighting to build a new life for herself. She put others before herself, sometimes risking exposing her secrets in order to protect Rafe and uncover what's going on. Rafe is an honorable man, a man of integrity, fiercely loyal to those he cares about and extremely protective of those he loves. His feelings for Olivia take him by surprise but once he's committed, he's in for the long haul. He will take care of her no matter what it costs him.
This book was the perfect blend of romance and suspense, something the author is very good at combining. She's also very strong on characterization. It's the characters that draw you in, that keep you turning the pages. You feel like you are a part of their lives and have a vested interest in their well-being. I so wanted Rafe to convince Olivia to trust him and Rafe refused to give up on her, certain he knew the person she was, someone he was willing to fight for.
I understand the story about the Brodies isn't over, that they'll be making a return appearance in the next book. Can't wait to read more and see what happens to this band of brothers next. This was a top notch read and one I recommend!
This book has it all, action, danger, suspense, hot, sexy romance and a gorgeous Alaskan setting. Once I started I didn't want to put it down! Olivia was a strong, determined woman, fighting to build a new life for herself. She put others before herself, sometimes risking exposing her secrets in order to protect Rafe and uncover what's going on. Rafe is an honorable man, a man of integrity, fiercely loyal to those he cares about and extremely protective of those he loves. His feelings for Olivia take him by surprise but once he's committed, he's in for the long haul. He will take care of her no matter what it costs him.
This book was the perfect blend of romance and suspense, something the author is very good at combining. She's also very strong on characterization. It's the characters that draw you in, that keep you turning the pages. You feel like you are a part of their lives and have a vested interest in their well-being. I so wanted Rafe to convince Olivia to trust him and Rafe refused to give up on her, certain he knew the person she was, someone he was willing to fight for.
I understand the story about the Brodies isn't over, that they'll be making a return appearance in the next book. Can't wait to read more and see what happens to this band of brothers next. This was a top notch read and one I recommend!
April 25, 2015
I love all of Kat Martin's books. I was excited to get this book. It starts out a little slow compared to the others but picks up pace fairly quickly and I love the way the Brodie brothers stick together and take care of one another.
Rafe, mister yummy but serious has finally determined the he is going to get to know Olivia and that also includes her secrets. All of them. He doesn't quite know what he's in for yet but after studying her for weeks he doesn't care what they are. Olivia (Liv) is trying her best to be polite but never get to close to Rafe. Unfortunately, that isn't going to last much longer and that gives me and you a really good story to read!
The death of someone close is what brings these two together and makes them both determined to work to find out who killed their friend. It doesn't take long for that to pull them together and Rafe decides he isn't going to let her go, she just doesn't know it yet. She knows that spending time with him is dangerous but is having a hard time staying away and her determination to find their friend's killer makes sure, at least for the first while, that she stays close to Rafe.
In uncovering the killer they uncover more than they bargained for and require help. Help they get. In the process her secret is revealed and she is going to run again.
I love these characters, the dog (Khan), the settings and the ending. I only rate this 4stars because it took a bit to get into this book. Please bring us more, Kat Martin.
*I received and ARC in exchange for an honest review of this book.*
Rafe, mister yummy but serious has finally determined the he is going to get to know Olivia and that also includes her secrets. All of them. He doesn't quite know what he's in for yet but after studying her for weeks he doesn't care what they are. Olivia (Liv) is trying her best to be polite but never get to close to Rafe. Unfortunately, that isn't going to last much longer and that gives me and you a really good story to read!
The death of someone close is what brings these two together and makes them both determined to work to find out who killed their friend. It doesn't take long for that to pull them together and Rafe decides he isn't going to let her go, she just doesn't know it yet. She knows that spending time with him is dangerous but is having a hard time staying away and her determination to find their friend's killer makes sure, at least for the first while, that she stays close to Rafe.
In uncovering the killer they uncover more than they bargained for and require help. Help they get. In the process her secret is revealed and she is going to run again.
I love these characters, the dog (Khan), the settings and the ending. I only rate this 4stars because it took a bit to get into this book. Please bring us more, Kat Martin.
*I received and ARC in exchange for an honest review of this book.*
April 12, 2015
I read and enjoyed the first book in this series. When the opportunity to get a copy of this third book from Net Galley, I requested it despite not having read book two. I really like the three brothers this series is based around and the interesting characters included in the stories. Though all three brothers are included in this book, it focuses on Rafe who is the owner of several charter boats. Rafe has had his eye on Olivia, the local diner owner, for a while but had made a move. When one of Rafe's crew is killed, a tie to Olivia's diner brings the two together in an effort to help find the killer. Even though helping out could expose a dangerous secret from Olivia's past, she can't leave it alone. As the situation heats up, it becomes hard for her to determine whether the danger is coming from her old enemies or new ones. The chemistry between Rafe and Olivia sparks quick and grows. Rafe knows early on that he wants her, but Olivia is opposed to making connections when she might have to run at any moment. Unfortunately for her, Rafe is difficult to resist.
The Alaskan setting makes this series interesting. In my opinion, this third book was every bit as good as the first book. Now I am certain I need to go back and read book two.
The Alaskan setting makes this series interesting. In my opinion, this third book was every bit as good as the first book. Now I am certain I need to go back and read book two.
June 13, 2015
This was a polished, enticing read that I was quite excited about. Martin brought Alaska to life in a big way that really allowed me to experience it alongside her characters. It was emotionally turbulent from beginning to end. Martin developed a low-key suspense that really packed a punch. I found this novel quite enjoyable, but the pace was a bit slow. Until the end, of course, when it raced forward. It was a great read but for me was missing that ‘can’t put it down’ quality.
Olivia is a very linear character who wants everything to fit into neat boxes. Life just doesn’t work that way so she takes to avoiding things that don’t conform for her. Paired with Rafe, who goes for exactly what he wants, readers are in for some intriguingly comical and extremely romantic moments. These two were actually a real joy to get to know. The parallels between Liv’s past & present lives add a lot of context to the story as a whole.
Overall, this was an enjoyable read that I’m definitely glad to have read. Martin brings Alaska & suspense to life in a big way, along with some explosive romance.
Please note that I received a complimentary copy of this work in exchange for an honest review.
Olivia is a very linear character who wants everything to fit into neat boxes. Life just doesn’t work that way so she takes to avoiding things that don’t conform for her. Paired with Rafe, who goes for exactly what he wants, readers are in for some intriguingly comical and extremely romantic moments. These two were actually a real joy to get to know. The parallels between Liv’s past & present lives add a lot of context to the story as a whole.
Overall, this was an enjoyable read that I’m definitely glad to have read. Martin brings Alaska & suspense to life in a big way, along with some explosive romance.
Please note that I received a complimentary copy of this work in exchange for an honest review.
April 25, 2015
Incredible Book, Great Story, Amazing Chemistry, Fun Adventure...
Unfortunately I didn't read the first book in the Brodies of Alaska series but I did read the 2nd one and really liked it. This one (3rd in the series) sounded good so I decided to read it as well. These books can certainly stand alone even though it's more enjoyable when you read them together, in order.
I thought this book was absolutely Amazing! I found it really hard to put down at the end of the night to get some sleep. The book was filled with excitement and adventure. It was packed full of never ending chemistry between the 2 main characters. Then thrown in some of the characters (Noah & Derek) from previous books that are always over-the-top enjoyable. I just couldn't get enough.
The storyline was very fun and interesting. I enjoyed every minute of the adventure to find and stop the bad guys and to unveil Liv's secret and do something about it.
I've read many Kat Martin books and this one is probably my favorite so far. Highly recommended!
ARC provided free of charge through NetGalley for an honest review.
Unfortunately I didn't read the first book in the Brodies of Alaska series but I did read the 2nd one and really liked it. This one (3rd in the series) sounded good so I decided to read it as well. These books can certainly stand alone even though it's more enjoyable when you read them together, in order.
I thought this book was absolutely Amazing! I found it really hard to put down at the end of the night to get some sleep. The book was filled with excitement and adventure. It was packed full of never ending chemistry between the 2 main characters. Then thrown in some of the characters (Noah & Derek) from previous books that are always over-the-top enjoyable. I just couldn't get enough.
The storyline was very fun and interesting. I enjoyed every minute of the adventure to find and stop the bad guys and to unveil Liv's secret and do something about it.
I've read many Kat Martin books and this one is probably my favorite so far. Highly recommended!
ARC provided free of charge through NetGalley for an honest review.
April 19, 2015
Wrapped in a contemporary love story this book includes false identities, secrets, murders, and a terrorist plot - it’s fast pace kept me interested from beginning to end.
Rafe Brodie and Olivia Chandler have been eying and circling one another for months while trying to avoid the chemistry that exists between them. The two are well matched with wonderful back stories; their romance is believable and all that this reader could ask for. All of the characters in this story are well developed, interesting and each adds to the story in his or her own way…including the two four legged ones with fur.
This is the first book I have read by this author but I do not believe it will be my last.
Thank you goes to Net Galley and Kensington Books for giving me the opportunity of reading and reviewing this wonderful book.
Rafe Brodie and Olivia Chandler have been eying and circling one another for months while trying to avoid the chemistry that exists between them. The two are well matched with wonderful back stories; their romance is believable and all that this reader could ask for. All of the characters in this story are well developed, interesting and each adds to the story in his or her own way…including the two four legged ones with fur.
This is the first book I have read by this author but I do not believe it will be my last.
Thank you goes to Net Galley and Kensington Books for giving me the opportunity of reading and reviewing this wonderful book.
July 11, 2015
Accused of a crime she didn't commit, Liv Chandler is running for her life. Thinking that maybe she's found a place at last that's safe in Alaska, she buys a cafe and starts to put down roots. Rafe Brodie, local charter captain, is intrigued by this beautiful woman of mystery. Then his first mate is murdered and Liv is afraid that she's been found, again. As Rafe and Liv work together to solve the murder of his first mate, the truth of his murder is even more dangerous than the people of Valdez, Alaska can even imagine. Can they solve the mystery in time to stop the hidden danger from happening?
This is an excellent contemporary novel from one of the best novelists around. It's fast-paced and keeps you guessing the whole time as to who exactly is behind the murder and why.
This is an excellent contemporary novel from one of the best novelists around. It's fast-paced and keeps you guessing the whole time as to who exactly is behind the murder and why.
July 6, 2017
I read the first third and then basically skimmed the last two thirds. I keep trying Kat Martin because I read one book of hers I really liked, but I've struck out with the last two or three and the experiment is officially over. Her heroes are all exactly the same. Being good looking and unrealistically capable is their personality. And, frankly, not that I have much faith in small town police work but the fact that from the beginning they literally completely interfered in the investigation was just uncool. You don't interview witnesses before the police because you've decided you know better than they do. I don't expect 100% realism from my romance, but in contemporary books, you need to be at least in the realm of possibility.
May 26, 2015
I usually enjoy Kat Martin's books. This was no exception, the story was well written and had a good mystery. Unfortunately, it had a few components that turned me off. The main characters are not law enforcement, but somehow a boat captain and cafe owner were allowed to investigate a murder. I also had a problem with another instance, one character became angry with a female character. To teach her a lesson, since she was acting like a child, he pulled her over his knees and spanked her. While the characters worked out how they felt about this, I could not. I look forward to the next book, and hope this was a one time occurrance.
May 22, 2015
Excellent romantic suspense! As with all Kat Martin's books, the writing is flawless with a great pace,storyline, and characters. The chemistry between Rafe and Liv jumps from the pages. Liv and her secrets are just some of the secrets Rafe needs to unravel. Finding a murderer is another. Definitely a great read and one I highly recommend.
August 8, 2020
I was naturally drawn to this series, The Brodies of Alaska since I live in this state. I love it when romantic suspense authors use my state as their setting and get the Alaskan nuances right. I enjoyed Against The Tide's ocean and boats scenes and I used to work in Valdez, so absolutely devoured those scenes. Martin does an excellent job of transporting readers to her settings and having us care about her characters. I love the slow burn she does with the romance arc. Not once did I want to skim sections to get to the juicy stuff. This is different for every reader, but I like action and snappy dialogue and Martin more than delivers in all of her books. I highly recommend this book for romantic suspense readers!
May 27, 2023
Brodies. Wondered if i had read book before based on first chapter. Skip read.
August 28, 2016
Liv is in Alaska in the first place because she's running away from being framed for a murder she didn't commit. It's at the forefront of the conflict between her and Rafe, her conscience about not telling all of her friends and Rafe about why she is there, that she's running. It's made into such a big deal. She feels unsafe. It's why she can't be involved in thwarting the terrorist attack at first, because she's afraid they'll look into her and find out who she really is.
They save the day, thwart the terrorist plot...and I was like "Okay what's going to happen with her cover identity and the murder back home???" all interested and stuff, expecting something good. And then she turns on the TV and sees on the news that the woman who framed her for the murder was implicated and OH WOW LIV IS IN THE CLEAR! How lovely. How easy.
How anticlimactic.
It was such a lazy ending and I was seriously frustrated by it. This author sells so many books and this has such a high rating; I hope she doesn't do this with the rest of her books. She gave up on such a big plot point/conflict. Just wrap it up with a quick newscast on the TV, not even explaining how they found out this other woman did it. Like it was nothing important. What?????
The characters weren't awful. The main guy Rafe was ... okay. But the rest of the book wasn't good enough for me to forgive such a lazy ending. One star. And I'm not reading anything else out of this series, or from this author.
They save the day, thwart the terrorist plot...and I was like "Okay what's going to happen with her cover identity and the murder back home???" all interested and stuff, expecting something good. And then she turns on the TV and sees on the news that the woman who framed her for the murder was implicated and OH WOW LIV IS IN THE CLEAR! How lovely. How easy.
How anticlimactic.
It was such a lazy ending and I was seriously frustrated by it. This author sells so many books and this has such a high rating; I hope she doesn't do this with the rest of her books. She gave up on such a big plot point/conflict. Just wrap it up with a quick newscast on the TV, not even explaining how they found out this other woman did it. Like it was nothing important. What?????
The characters weren't awful. The main guy Rafe was ... okay. But the rest of the book wasn't good enough for me to forgive such a lazy ending. One star. And I'm not reading anything else out of this series, or from this author.
d-n-f
May 6, 2016Some guy is murdered, so his boss and the guy's fiance's boss are gonna solve the murder together. What? Why? What fucking business is it of yours? Olivia. Who owns a diner. Is gonna solve the murder of a guy she barely knew. WHY? And no, she does not have an investigative or criminal justice background. She's just terribly offended that somebody would commit murder, so she's on the god damn case! WHY? Ugh! She of all people should be keeping her head down and anyone with two brain cells to rub together would know that investigating a murder in a small town is NOT the way to do that. But she's like "I'm coming with you to question people, I've got a few questions to ask this stranger myself!" WTF WHY?
Also, the crime scene techs fingerprinted the inside of a boat, but Rafe is like "instantly aware that nobody had been on board since he left yesterday"... Gosh, I wonder how they fingerprinted the boat - perhaps with winged CSI technicians? That's a seriously dumb continuity error after the author went to the effort of discussing the fingerprinting being done in the first place. It annoyed me a lot.
Everything so far tells me the author called it in on this one, so I'm calling it quits.
Also, the crime scene techs fingerprinted the inside of a boat, but Rafe is like "instantly aware that nobody had been on board since he left yesterday"... Gosh, I wonder how they fingerprinted the boat - perhaps with winged CSI technicians? That's a seriously dumb continuity error after the author went to the effort of discussing the fingerprinting being done in the first place. It annoyed me a lot.
Everything so far tells me the author called it in on this one, so I'm calling it quits.
June 2, 2015
ARC REVIEW
Okay I love the Brodies and now in this third book the eldest Brodie, Rafe, meets his match with a mysterious woman, Liv, and an attraction neither of them can deny. Liv and Rafe are an engaging couple she keeps trying to distance herself from him but the more she pushes the more he tighten his grip on her. In typical Brodie fashion it is never easy when they fall in love and with each book the external conflict just gets more and more intense. What first appeared as a murder of a young man ends in an elaborate plan and in the process Rafe and Liv fall in love as Liv's secrets are revealed.
Kat Martin is a fabulous writer and this one is an intense mystery and an emotional love story. Rafe is an alpha male who has finally fell in love and now that he has found her he is not letting her go no matter her past. Liv is a strong heroine but scared and so in love with Rafe she doesn't want to ruin his life with her problems. I think this one is my favorite so far, since their is another one coming out that will probably be my new favorite when I read it.
Okay I love the Brodies and now in this third book the eldest Brodie, Rafe, meets his match with a mysterious woman, Liv, and an attraction neither of them can deny. Liv and Rafe are an engaging couple she keeps trying to distance herself from him but the more she pushes the more he tighten his grip on her. In typical Brodie fashion it is never easy when they fall in love and with each book the external conflict just gets more and more intense. What first appeared as a murder of a young man ends in an elaborate plan and in the process Rafe and Liv fall in love as Liv's secrets are revealed.
Kat Martin is a fabulous writer and this one is an intense mystery and an emotional love story. Rafe is an alpha male who has finally fell in love and now that he has found her he is not letting her go no matter her past. Liv is a strong heroine but scared and so in love with Rafe she doesn't want to ruin his life with her problems. I think this one is my favorite so far, since their is another one coming out that will probably be my new favorite when I read it.
May 17, 2015
This is book three of Kat Martin’s Brodies of Alaska series. I did not read the previous two. But this book does well as a stand alone. The story may have been richer had I read the previous two, and fans of the series will certainly like this installment.
This is the story of Rafe Brodie and Olivia Chandler as they set out to solve the mystery of a murder of one of Rafe’s employees. It mixes suspense and romance with a masterful delivery of chemistry between Olivia and Rafe.
Although I think the author a wonderful writer who weaves a plot with delightful descriptions, I felt it to be a stretch that the main characters would search for the murderer on their own, distrusting that the police can do the job. They have no obvious training as detectives. But it was a way to force the characters into proximity and allow their feelings for each other to develop.
Overall, a very likeable couple and a sweet romance. Good read.
*Book was provided via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
This is the story of Rafe Brodie and Olivia Chandler as they set out to solve the mystery of a murder of one of Rafe’s employees. It mixes suspense and romance with a masterful delivery of chemistry between Olivia and Rafe.
Although I think the author a wonderful writer who weaves a plot with delightful descriptions, I felt it to be a stretch that the main characters would search for the murderer on their own, distrusting that the police can do the job. They have no obvious training as detectives. But it was a way to force the characters into proximity and allow their feelings for each other to develop.
Overall, a very likeable couple and a sweet romance. Good read.
*Book was provided via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
April 17, 2015
Who doesn't want a tall, dark, and handsome man?? Well that's what you get with Rafe Brodie. And he's got his sights set on Olivia Chandler. Even though he feels she is hiding something he still wants to get to know her. So when one of his best friends is found murdered and Liv wants to team up with him to track down the killer, he doesn't hesitate to letting her help him. Letting Liv helps gives him the opportunity he's been waiting for by getting to know her. He wants to remove Livs walls she has built around herself
Liv keeps her distance from the sexy man Rafe Brodie. If she stays away she won't feel such an attraction and drawl to him, well at least that's what she tells herself. But once Scotty is found murdered she wants Rafe to help her track down the murderer. And she just needs to continue to keep her secrets hidden from everyone she has come to care about.
Liv keeps her distance from the sexy man Rafe Brodie. If she stays away she won't feel such an attraction and drawl to him, well at least that's what she tells herself. But once Scotty is found murdered she wants Rafe to help her track down the murderer. And she just needs to continue to keep her secrets hidden from everyone she has come to care about.
February 1, 2016
This was good but not knock your socks off great. I liked the suspense part although it might have been a reach to base it on a terrorist plot. I really liked the heroine. Even though she has reasons to keep herself from connecting with people, she didn't really want to. Once she realized this, she allowed herself to do that, even with the hero. I like that the author didn't turn her into a martyr. I dislike books where one or the other MC denies themselves love/friendship/etc for the good of those around them. It just gets annoying to keep reading about that angst. So I'm glad it wasn't present here. Each time Liv thought about running again, she talked herself out of it because she realized she deserved the live she was now living and she deserved to be able to love Rafe and wanted to fight for it. This made the book worth reading for me.
June 23, 2016
I liked this book the most out of the series. The suspense part was action packed and I enjoyed the characters. I especially liked the heroine. She was tough but also willing to make changes in her life. I think I've read too many books where one of the MC decides they can't have any connections/relationships due to their past and it gets old. This was a nice change since the heroine decided that she deserved to have a life and didn't let her past stop her from connecting with the hero. Although, she thought about running away she stayed strong and took a chance and it didn't come at the very last second with her pushing the hero away the rest of the book. For that reason alone I enjoyed this book. I also enjoyed reading about Valdez, Alaska and the beautiful and rugged environment.
July 7, 2016
Rafe owns several boats and operates a tourist and fishing business in Alaska. Liv own the local café, but has secrets she’s hiding. A friend of theirs is murdered, and they work together to find the killer. In the process, they uncover a terrorist plot and Rafe discovers Liv’s secret. This installment of the Brodies had a good hero and heroine with good chemistry. Unfortunately, the way terrorists were referred to felt racist, so that reduced my enjoyment. Ignoring that, it was a good book. I read the ebook. 4/5
April 20, 2015
This series offers romance, but mixes in the suspense and action that helps set it apart from others. The 3rd in the series, Against the Tide supplies great chemistry between Rafe and Olivia. There were a few parts that got a bit wordy during plot reveals, but over all I really enjoyed this book. I always look forward to the books in this series, and I think that out of the Brodie brothers this may be one of my favorites.
June 10, 2015
Another great romantic suspense novel from Kat Martin. The suspense begins with a murder and held my attention as it became more and more complicated.
This book revolves around the oldest Brodie brother, Rafe, a fishing charterboat owner and Olivia Chandler, a cafe owner who is new to Valdez.
[I did wonder how a police dept would tolerate so much citizen investigation, but that's often true in book suspense, I guess.]
This book revolves around the oldest Brodie brother, Rafe, a fishing charterboat owner and Olivia Chandler, a cafe owner who is new to Valdez.
[I did wonder how a police dept would tolerate so much citizen investigation, but that's often true in book suspense, I guess.]
April 12, 2015
So, another series that I jump into any old place. That is not a problem, because the story is very contained as to people, location and time. I like romantic stories with strong women and intelligent men. We have terrorists, murder, people on the run from injustice and small tourist town activities. It's a nice mix and conclude sweetly.
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