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Without a Trace #2

Tracing the Line

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They say love doesn’t hurt.

But it’s a lie. I promise you, love someone long enough, and they’ll destroy your soul.

I’ve spent my life taking care of everyone else: my family, my ex-hus- band, my friends. Deep down, I know I should focus on myself, but how can I when I’ve got one sister about to implode while the other battles her own guilt?

The minute I met Kai Isaac, I should’ve run in the opposite direction. His business isn’t one I want any part of, and I’ve got way too much drama in my life already.

But his kiss...those eyes...the raging inferno he creates when he touches me...I can’t stay away. Life’s reeling out of control, and he’s my only refuge from the storm.

My sister Lux says trusting someone means not knowing everything about them and being okay with it...but what if not knowing the truth ruins everything?

250 pages, ebook

First published August 8, 2015

2 people are currently reading
21 people want to read

About the author

Ally Bishop

10 books30 followers
When you do something effortlessly and people commend you continuously, you have found your gift.

That's what I tell people all the time. And it's true.

I get story. I always have. I started writing when I was eight on a Smith Corona (the electronic kind -- I'm not THAT old). I wrote stories in every spiral notebook I had. Eventually, I graduated to a Mac (yes, I'm one of THOSE people). I imagined new worlds, emotional conflicts, and HEAs while I waited at stoplights or wandered the grocery store. But here's the thing: I didn't just dream it up and write it down -- I critiqued what I read. I knew when ideas were good, and when they stunk. I ran writing groups, judged creative contests, and eventually got two graduate degrees in writing. That's right: I love it that much.

So here I am, years later, writing kickass heroines and devastating good guys, along with some mystery and vampires thrown in (I promise: THEY'RE COMING). And what's really cool? I do what I love. Wanna write a success story for your life: I promise you, that's it. Do what you love. And hopefully, you can make a living at it too. That's the golden ticket, Charlie.

And chocolate doesn't hurt, either...

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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
Profile Image for Julie.
583 reviews67 followers
November 21, 2015

description

I'm going to be super honest from the get go with this one ... this is going to be a brutal review. I'm going to try to keep all of my criticism completely constructive and I hope that it comes off that way ... sometimes I'm a tad less than eloquent. And really ... I don't know if I read a completely different book from what everyone else has read or what but I didn't come close to giving this one five stars and I'll be interested to see their take on it since mine is the polar opposite.

Here goes ... right off the bat, I felt a bit of an immature vibe coming from all of the characters but especially the sisters. This is the first book that I've read by Ally Bishop, so I'm not totally for sure if that was what she was going for or if it just came off as immature to me for some other reason (that I have yet to discover and pinpoint). Since I'm talking about the characters, I might as well mention how confusing the main character is ... not be cause the character herself is confusing but because I didn't really know who the main character was. Is it Zi or Lux or Blue? It seemed as if all three received equal time within the pages of Tracing the Line and it was a bit off-putting. I would have liked for just one to take the spotlight. And I could have issues with this since I've not read any of the other books in the series, I guess. My bad.

The sex scenes. Oh, sweet baby Jesus. The sex scenes. I tell you what, Zi and Kai went from being shy around each other to mach-1 within 2.5 seconds. I know that books are fictional but damn. That was just too fast and it didn't seem plausible to me. But then again, I started skipping sex scenes after I was 60% through the book because they all had the same vibe to them and it seemed like the same stuff happened ... in the same order ... and the characters thought/said the same thing that they had said during the last encounter. I just didn't connect the sex scenes with the characters at all, it didn't seem authentic for them to me.

The plot of the novel sounded interesting to me when I first picked Tracing the Line up and while it kept my interest at first, I quickly realized that the story was moving along at a snail's pace. This could be because there were like 578 different things going on to all of the characters in the novel and you have to keep up with so many different things and every other page, someone is having some sort of crisis that can only be solved with sex or gouging your eyes out. Wait ... that was what I wanted to do. There were just too many cooks in the kitchen on this one. Too many things going on, too many controversies, too many medical issues, too many drug issues, too many sex issues, too many marriage issues and so on, ad nauseam.

By the time I was three quarters of the way through the novel, I was really just hoping that there was some asteroid heading for Earth that Bruce Willis couldn't demolish in time and it ends up hitting the town where everyone in this book was and BOOM! the end. I liked this book quite a bit when I first picked it up; I was confused with the seemingly multiple main characters but I liked the blurb and the direction the story was heading. I just wish that the last 80% panned out for me like the first 20% did. I HATE not liking a book. I'm glad that I gave it a try but I'm also a tiny bit glad that it's over.

i>* I received this novel in exchange for an honest review *

Check out more of my reviews at Little Miss Bookmark!
Profile Image for Beth.
122 reviews2 followers
August 11, 2015
I received this book for free in exchange for an open and honest review.
Hold onto your hats Ally Bishop fans, Tracing The Lines is out and sooooo worth the wait! This is a sexy, hard, powerful and lovely read that left me wanting more and more and more. It made me want to take dance lessons and give into some of my sexual fantasies. I wanted to scream and laugh and cry and rejoice, it is a great roller coaster ride…totally worth the price of admission.
This installment of the Without A Trace series, even though this can be read as a stand alone, it is so much better when read after reading its predecessors, Inside the Lines and Crossing The Line.
This installment follows Zi (Ziamora) Trace (Lux's sister from "Inside The Lines") and Kai (pronounced Ki (long i)) Isaac. They meet in an unconventional manner as Lux sets Zi up for a new experience and to help out a friend who is making a film about who we are at our most intimate and ends up making out with one of the owners of the film company (Kai) who just happens to be gorgeous and amazingly sexy. Zi makes out with Kai and then walks away well, Kai is gone but not forgotten. Definitely not forgotten.
Zi is an amazingly strong woman with a level head on her shoulders. She has risen above many and varied issues from her childhood to family issues that I will allow you, the reader, to explore. Zi is a business owner (tasteful lingerie store) with hopes of expanding it to a neighboring city, she is terrorized by some Bible-thumping critics because of the expansion but faces them down but she ends up with a shock about Kai that knocked me for a loop (no spoilers here but a shocker).
Kai is a little less complicated but has his own issues. He is a strong man of character and genuinely supports Zi and her family in their journey. He makes an almost fatal mistake but rights it in the end, it made me want to cheer for him and pat him on the back. He falls for Zi hard and fast and I loved that about him that he is ready to jump in with both feet.
I loved the scene in the garage between Zi and Kai, it is too hot to describe here but it made me see garages in a whole new way. There are hotter “then you know where” scenes in this book and makes you wonder where do men like this live and how do I get there?
The only downer in this book was that we lost a little of the love story because we had to deal with Zi’s family issues. The family issues had to be dealt with but I just wish that Kai and Zi’s reunion could have been a little more involved and drawn out. But I did love the way Kai surprised (a very naked surprise) Zi at her apartment when they found each other again.
Ally paints Zi and all the characters in wonderfully strong colors and brush strokes that compel the reader to wonder what it be like to sit down with them and get to know them and their journey.
This installment is a fabulous addition to the Without A Trace series, it raises you up high and brings you down, it is a great roller coaster that you will be upset when you are done. I know I was…can’t wait to see which character gets the Ally Bishop treatment next…will it be Noah, Blue, Mick, Ger, Russ or someone else, only time will tell.
Profile Image for Stephenee.
1,866 reviews47 followers
October 21, 2015
* I received an ebook in exchange for an honest review. *

This is the 3rd book in the series, but this is a New To Me author and Series and I was able to jump into this book with no problems. I will now be going back to check out the first two books in the series, however, because this one was just that good. It is a series that I want to get the most out of! With that being said, let's jump right into the review!

I loved the characters that author Ally Bishop has in this series. They are flawed and they have issues and they are completely relatable due to this. Lux, Zi and Blue have been through a terrible childhood but have survived mostly unscathed and as a result their love for each other keeps them together and fighting to move forward. This book is mostly focused on Zi and her relationship with Kai Isaac, a film maker of erotic movies (the one thing that Zi despises). Every relationship has secrets but the ones that Kai has may end this right as it gets started.

The plot is unpredictable and is a roller coaster of emotions both for the readers and the characters! The author keeps the reader guessing as they rush through the pages trying to figure out what might happen next. There are no simple paths for any of the characters, so be prepared to fight your way through the thorns, brush and forest to get through! The author keeps the readers attention throughout the story as they zoom through the pages to see where things might go next!

I have found a new author and one that I will be reading more of in the immediate future! Don't miss out on this amazing series and remember that you can start here or go to book 1. Add this to your TBR list so that you don't miss a drop of the drama, action or romance that author Ally Bishop has to offer!!

***Review has been done in conjunction with Nerd Girl Official. For more information regarding our reviews please visit our Fansite: www.facebook.com/NerdGirl.ng ***
Profile Image for Josselyn Radillo.
283 reviews7 followers
August 11, 2015
THIS REVIEW WAS ORIGINALLY POSTED AT
CHAPTERFIVE.WIX.COM/CHAPTER5

RATE: 6/5

MY THOUGHTS:

A woman ready to protect everything that she and his protector had built together and son ready to take all that away from then. And that made this an insta-one-click, and I have to say I rather enjoyed myself.
Miranda’s life gets turned on its side when Eliezer Clausell literally runs into her with coffee. Even thou he hated her a first I knew he was totally smitten with her and his goals was to make her his. Miranda, on the other hand, is a little more reluctant to the idea of jumping to his bed feeling bad for Norman. Ever since Norman enter her life changed, leaving her with a father her only kind of family. She’s learned the harsh truths about life. Not everyone will stand by your side (not even her own family) through the hard times, and she’s not willing to put her heart on the line again.

This was a really cute story. You get to watch them fighting for their hate/love relationship and the roller coaster of Eliezer’s burden past. Even thou she put some leg work getting him to understand that he is willing to do what it takes to be with him. Plus, all the drama and revenge, I just ate it up. It was sometimes a little wishy-washy and regret it her reaction to Eliezer and it bothers a little too easy but I didn’t really care. I wanted to see Eliezer chase her but he didn’t try that hard.
The author does throw in some family drama, and the story really blows up with all kinds of difference things. It was almost like a soap opera and I couldn’t look away. It was entertaining, to say the least.
The fact that the author is a Latina like me really makes me loves this book more, because the transition into a Spanish book to an English isn’t easy at all. But she nailed, even thou it has a few formal words I’m sure you will enjoy it a lot. And I’m sure the second book is going to be better.
Profile Image for Lauren - SERIESous Books.
1,836 reviews62 followers
October 31, 2015
Want to know if the whole series is worth reading? Read my overall review of the whole series at seriesousbookreviews.com! Spoiler Free!
**I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own and not influenced by my source.**

This book was a great follow up to Inside the Lines.

I liked that it still maintained its sex positive message and kept the focus on the heroine's growth as an independent woman. In fact, those are two of my favourite aspects of this series. It delivers a strong message without being preachy or condescending. It gives these books a touch of realism when it comes to the characters, allowing readers to connect with the female leads on a real level. Because some of these situations (mostly how they meet the male lead) are used for dramatics and they make the novel have that fun aspect to it. But the character development is what lasts for me when I'm finished reading these novels.

The romance in this one was just as good as the previous. I like how Kai is projected as a partner and not as a crutch that Zi uses to reshape her whole life. In this story, I feel like the romance takes a bit more of a backseat because of all the things Zi has to work out in her personal life but it worked for this story.

Overall: I really enjoyed this one and am excited to see what is going happen next in this series!

Check out more spoiler-free book and series reviews on my blog SERIESousBookReviews.com as well as read book series recaps!

Full Review:http://wp.me/p3txrs-19d
Profile Image for Jackie.
Author 21 books473 followers
November 2, 2015
Zi, dispite her lingerie shop, has been quite the conservative. She isn’t like her sister Lux. She hasn’t had many lovers and she doesn’t like the idea of some of the kink that others are into. That is until she meets Kai. Kai is involved in producing sex tapes. At first, Zi is completely opposed to Kai and what he does. But, when she can’t fight her attraction to him any longer sparks fly and inhibitions go out the window. Everyone comes with their own baggage. It depends on whether you can accept it or not. Can Zi accept Kai or will she give up on him after discovering his secrets?

I really loved this one. Like all the other Ally Bishop books they are erotic romance with a touch of kink. This is what makes this series unique to me. It isn’t entire about the erotic or the kink. There are fantastic characters and story telling going on. Zi and Kai are very unique and have a lot of depth. It shows through out the story. Romance, erotic sex scenes with a touch of kink makes this book hot and melty. You will pick it up and won’t be able to put it down even if it burns you. I truly can’t wait to see what Ally Bishop will come out with next.
Profile Image for Jennifer Reed.
238 reviews20 followers
August 2, 2015
I was given a copy of this book by the Author for an honest review.

TRACING THE LINE is the next book in the Without A trace series. It is a hot masterpiece of writing. The characters and story line are very well-developed. The story follows the sister of Lux, who is her middle sister and she has just got back together within the last year after being separated as kids. Zi is a successful business woman who owns a lingerie shop with a tasteful sex shop in the back. Lux talks Zi in helping her friend in the film industry with a reality show, but when Zi's partner in the film is a no-show Kai steps in to let the filming go on. There is instant chemistry between both of them.This is such a great book, and series. I loved the characters of Zi and Kai, they are so made for each other. I recommend this book to beveryone, and I give TRACING THE LINE 5/5 STARS.
112 reviews2 followers
July 21, 2015
I loved this book so much. The characters were easy to relate to and the writing was easy to understand. I was able to follow the plot and story even though I have not read the first book in the series, which I plan on rectifying very soon. I loved most of the characters. Zi is such a strong female character that just blew me away. I liked Lux's personality and her ability to overcome hardships. Blue I think was the one I liked the least. Probably because she seemed very childish and placed blame on everyone but the two people who deserved it the most. I completely loved Kai. He is just the sexiest thing I've read in a while and was so unconditionally loving towards Zi.

Buy the book as soon as you can because you'll enjoy the journey you go on!!

*I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review*
Profile Image for Linda.
1,036 reviews
July 27, 2015
I loved this story. The women are strong but flawed. Both Lux and Zi have been through a terrible childhood but have survived strong. Their younger sister, Blue, has more problems as a result but their love for each other keeps them together. This book is focused on Zi and her relationship with Kai Isaac, a film maker of erotic movies. The writing is excellent and the characters are believable and likable. You must read the first two books to fully understand the relationships of the sisters and the close friends of Lux. It is rare to find a series where the female is the main character and is young and sensual with no apologies for her life. I loved this book and recommend it to those who like romance with explicit sexual descriptions done with class.
Profile Image for Aly.
361 reviews
August 13, 2015
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Tracing the Line was well written. I loved the views into Zi's mind, she was a unique individual. Not to mention Kai's profession and the issues that are brought up were very intriguing and different. It was certainly eye opening and added depth on issues I honestly hadn't thought about before.

While Tracing the Line is part of a series it also serves as a standalone, and I didn't really feel like I was missing anything or battling confusion, not having read any of the previous books in this series.

I have to say that Ally Bishop has certainly created a unique story that I really enjoyed reading.


Find this review and many more at Reading Shy With Aly
Profile Image for Christina.
Author 13 books326 followers
September 13, 2015
A fantastic third book in the series yet is strong enough as a stand alone. I confess I liked the first two better only because I didn't believe Zi, the female protagonist, was as believable a character as her sister Lux. A lingerie and sex toy boutique proprietor who blushes (at first) at more adventurous sex? Still I enjoyed this "escape" well enough to finish the book in one sitting!!! And man, author Ally Bishop can write a titillating love scene! Swoon. I did like how Zi opened herself up to more for her life, love life, and confidence. The series is terrific--and I look forward to more from this talented writer.
Profile Image for Jeanne .
408 reviews
July 13, 2015
Looking past the grammatical errors in the advanced copy I received, I would love to be in Aly Bishops head with her great stories! Loved the continuation of the Trace sister's stories and learning more details of their childhood, explaining who they have become and why! Zi is so relatable and some of her story really hits home! Absolutely intrigued by how she and Kai meet! Love Zi's courage in moving forward. Thoroughly enjoyed their story! Can't wait to learn Blue's story and want to hear Noah's too!
Profile Image for Jennifer Senhaji.
Author 5 books165 followers
September 28, 2016
I enjoyed this complex story of family, love, lust, & self discovery. The hero is a perfect balance to our heroine, a woman who's been so busy trying to take care of everyone else, she's paid little attention to herself. The true story was the dynamic between the three sisters. They were very different people who survived a very ugly upbringing. The inner strength and weaknesses each developed over the years to cope weaves a wonderfully emotional tapestry, demonstrating how our differences can bring us together. Well done.
Profile Image for Audrey.
9 reviews1 follower
August 18, 2015
This book is longer than the other two in the Without a Trace series (Inside the Lines and Crossing the Line) because it goes more into the relationship between Lux, Zi, and Blue. There are definitely enough hot scenes to keep it an erotic romance, though! Well-written, good story line. And we see Fin again (briefly)!
22 reviews
August 17, 2015
I really, really enjoyed reading this story and learning more about the 3 sisters. I think it's a great series and of course now with this ending I can't wait to read more. As with the other books, there is just enough erotica involved to keep the hormones flowing!
452 reviews2 followers
August 4, 2015
I received this book from the author for an honest review! Loving this series! Hope there is more to come! Great characters and great story!
Profile Image for Megan =^..^=.
636 reviews7 followers
June 22, 2016
A beautifully written story, with an amazing cast of characters! Highly recommend!
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews

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