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Green County #1
Dirty Sexy Secret
Even when you know better….
There are a million reasons why Hazel Campton is off limits: she’s a journalist. I’m a cop. Oh, and she’s my foster sister.
My secret is I didn’t care. I haven’t stopped wanting her since I slept with her the night before she left.
She’s trouble. Always has been.
It’s hard to resist the thing you’ve always wanted…
Growing up with Brandon Archer means I know him. Good. Bad. Everything in between.
It’s just never mattered.
My secret? That night. The one I stole, that’s kept me from Archer and Green County, for four years.
Now I’m home, and nothing has changed. Except me. And not in the way that means a damn thing.
Because I still want him.
Everything can change with a knock at the door…
Secrets. Everyone has them. Archer. Me. This town.
Perfection only runs surface deep in Green County. When there’s a knock at me door, it’s a familiar face all covered in danger, and all those secrets we hide? They’re about to come tumbling out.
The first in a sexy new series about Green County, and the people who serve there.
There are a million reasons why Hazel Campton is off limits: she’s a journalist. I’m a cop. Oh, and she’s my foster sister.
My secret is I didn’t care. I haven’t stopped wanting her since I slept with her the night before she left.
She’s trouble. Always has been.
It’s hard to resist the thing you’ve always wanted…
Growing up with Brandon Archer means I know him. Good. Bad. Everything in between.
It’s just never mattered.
My secret? That night. The one I stole, that’s kept me from Archer and Green County, for four years.
Now I’m home, and nothing has changed. Except me. And not in the way that means a damn thing.
Because I still want him.
Everything can change with a knock at the door…
Secrets. Everyone has them. Archer. Me. This town.
Perfection only runs surface deep in Green County. When there’s a knock at me door, it’s a familiar face all covered in danger, and all those secrets we hide? They’re about to come tumbling out.
The first in a sexy new series about Green County, and the people who serve there.
240 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 28, 2016
1 person is currently reading
124 people want to read
About the author
Nazarea Andrews
46 books430 followersNazarea Andrews is an avid reader and tends to write the stories she wants to read. She loves chocolate and coffee almost as much as she loves books, but not quite as much as she loves her kids. She lives in south Georgia with her husband, daughters, and overgrown dog.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
November 28, 2016
3.5 stars
Forbidden romance with a murder mystery. Not bad, although writing was a bit choppy.
Forbidden romance with a murder mystery. Not bad, although writing was a bit choppy.
June 4, 2016
Review: This review can also be found here at my blog.
This is my first book by Nazarea Andrews.I went in without much of an idea about what it was going to be about and ended up really loving it.This book has the perfect mix of mystery,romance and familial connections in it.
Hazel is back in Green County, her hometown, after four years.She has been avoiding her foster brothers for six months but she can't prolong the inevitable forever.She is an investigative journalist who has just lost her job in Boston.On the other hand we have Brandon Archer, who along with her other foster brother-Eli, is a cop.The three are referred to as the Airplane Orphans, as they lost their families in a plane crash at the Green County base.They were taken in by a loving woman Nora, who made sure that they got all that they needed.
Though they are a tight-knit family, Brandon and Hazel are so much more to each other than just that.After a passionate night that they shared four years ago, Hazel skipped town and ran away.Now, she is back.But this story is far more than just a romance.The County has lots of secrets and they slowly come to light as the author peels away the layers, one at a time.Hazel, Eli and Brandon each have their own vices and secrets that they are keeping.
Each character has been created in a beautifully intricate manner. Noone is just one-dimensional here.Everyone from Hazel's best friend Gabe, to the creepy twins have stories and secrets.Soon, after we get past the initial meetings and the getting together, we learn the pasts of the characters and what happened when Hazel was away.Then, a triple homicide happens shaking up the quiet peace of the town, forcing everyone to finally look at the things that have been kept hidden for so long.And Hazel is the one to tell this story.
I loved the story in this book and the secrets and mystery kept me hooked.I ate it all up in one sitting.The relationship between Hazel and Brandon was beautiful.The way they kept each other's secrets and silently protected each other and their family.Eli and Gabe were also fascinating. I hope we find out more about them in the next book.
So. if you're looking for a book with the perfect mix of intrigue,sexiness and drama, give this one a try as you'll definitely end up loving it!!
May 29, 2016
Title: Dirty Sexy Secret
Author: Nazarea Andrews
Series: Green County Series, Book #1
Publisher: A&A Literary
Release Date: May 2016
Genre(s): Contemporary Romance
Page Count: 167
Heat Level: 3.5 flames out of 5
Rating: 5 stars out of 5
Blurb:
Review:
5 dirty sexy stars!!
This book was so much better than I ever expected it to be!! This is the first book I’ve read by Nazarea, and let me tell you I’m now a huge fan!! This book if phenomenal!! I’m in love with Hazel and Archer… I loved their story and their background! It was perfect and so refreshingly well told!! I loved the element of surprise and the suspense, wanting to know all the secrets everyone was hiding!!! Definitely worth the read!
ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review. Reviewed by Melissa from Alpha Book Club
Author: Nazarea Andrews
Series: Green County Series, Book #1
Publisher: A&A Literary
Release Date: May 2016
Genre(s): Contemporary Romance
Page Count: 167
Heat Level: 3.5 flames out of 5
Rating: 5 stars out of 5
Blurb:
Even when you know better….
There are a million reasons why Hazel Campton is off limits: she’s a journalist. I’m a cop. Oh, and she’s my foster sister.
My secret is I didn’t care. I haven’t stopped wanting her since I slept with her the night before she left.
She’s trouble. Always has been.
It’s hard to resist the thing you’ve always wanted…
Growing up with Brandon Archer means I know him. Good. Bad. Everything in between.
It’s just never mattered.
My secret? That night. The one I stole, that’s kept me from Archer and Green County, for four years.
Now I’m home, and nothing has changed. Except me. And not in the way that means a damn thing.
Because I still want him.
Everything can change with a knock at the door…
Secrets. Everyone has them. Archer. Me. This town.
Perfection only runs surface deep in Green County. When there’s a knock at me door, it’s a familiar face all covered in danger, and all those secrets we hide? They’re about to come tumbling out.
Review:
5 dirty sexy stars!!
This book was so much better than I ever expected it to be!! This is the first book I’ve read by Nazarea, and let me tell you I’m now a huge fan!! This book if phenomenal!! I’m in love with Hazel and Archer… I loved their story and their background! It was perfect and so refreshingly well told!! I loved the element of surprise and the suspense, wanting to know all the secrets everyone was hiding!!! Definitely worth the read!
ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review. Reviewed by Melissa from Alpha Book Club
June 4, 2016
4.5 Stars
Not what I was expecting, but that's a good thing.
Full review below:
Well, Nazarea, N to most everyone, has knocked another out of the park for me!! And it was nothing like I expected.
DSS is very much a suspenseful and thrilling romance. But what drove this book was the suspense and learning all about these characters - not just the main characters, but the secondary ones as well.
"The brutality we saw this week. It was one family's secrets and rage. I wonder if that will be the end of it. But I know, it's not. Because secrets. They're everywhere. And they'll come to light."
I truly don't even know where to start explaining great this book is and not give any important details away. N writes a very intertwined and secretive thrilling mystery. The book is told from Hazel and Archer's POV. They have their own secrets together. But it's when the secrets of others come to light, that they start hiding things from another. They also realize, they've been in the dark on other things because they chose to not see what was really right in front of them.
I absolutely loved all the twists, turns, secrets revealed, and how everything is truly tied together. N truly crept me out with Michael, John and Hannah - like goosebumps all over. As I was reading this whole book, I could visual everything and everyone. Like a damn series on TV and I couldn't stop watching it all play out before. I had to know the who, why, what.
"Three killers, two cops and a journalist walk into a bar. Sounds like a bad joke, right? It's not. It's the end - dear God I hope it's the end - of the worst day of my life. I just hope we walk out alive."
And don't get my wrong. The romance was there in this book, it just didn't play a very huge part of the plot. And I think N wrote the romance part perfectly - it was just right added touch needed to this book - to bring it all together.
I am looking forward to what N brings us next!
Not what I was expecting, but that's a good thing.
Full review below:
Well, Nazarea, N to most everyone, has knocked another out of the park for me!! And it was nothing like I expected.
DSS is very much a suspenseful and thrilling romance. But what drove this book was the suspense and learning all about these characters - not just the main characters, but the secondary ones as well.
"The brutality we saw this week. It was one family's secrets and rage. I wonder if that will be the end of it. But I know, it's not. Because secrets. They're everywhere. And they'll come to light."
I truly don't even know where to start explaining great this book is and not give any important details away. N writes a very intertwined and secretive thrilling mystery. The book is told from Hazel and Archer's POV. They have their own secrets together. But it's when the secrets of others come to light, that they start hiding things from another. They also realize, they've been in the dark on other things because they chose to not see what was really right in front of them.
I absolutely loved all the twists, turns, secrets revealed, and how everything is truly tied together. N truly crept me out with Michael, John and Hannah - like goosebumps all over. As I was reading this whole book, I could visual everything and everyone. Like a damn series on TV and I couldn't stop watching it all play out before. I had to know the who, why, what.
"Three killers, two cops and a journalist walk into a bar. Sounds like a bad joke, right? It's not. It's the end - dear God I hope it's the end - of the worst day of my life. I just hope we walk out alive."
And don't get my wrong. The romance was there in this book, it just didn't play a very huge part of the plot. And I think N wrote the romance part perfectly - it was just right added touch needed to this book - to bring it all together.
I am looking forward to what N brings us next!
June 3, 2016
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review. Review can be found on *Milky Way of Books*
When you get to read yet another amazing story by Nazarea, then you know that you are ready for surprises. DSS takes place in a town where everyone knows everyone and three orphans reunite after four years of seperation. Archer and Hazel, Eli and their people may seem to be in control yet there are secrets and too many emotions.
This was not just another contemporary with angst and a simple plot. There's mystery, flashbacks and many swoony scenes. Nazarea Andrwes knows when to write amazing flawed characters and she thrives in this ability!
When you get to read yet another amazing story by Nazarea, then you know that you are ready for surprises. DSS takes place in a town where everyone knows everyone and three orphans reunite after four years of seperation. Archer and Hazel, Eli and their people may seem to be in control yet there are secrets and too many emotions.
This was not just another contemporary with angst and a simple plot. There's mystery, flashbacks and many swoony scenes. Nazarea Andrwes knows when to write amazing flawed characters and she thrives in this ability!
May 30, 2016
I went into this book blind and ended up really liking it. I was a little surprised that there was such major crime/mystery to solve in an addition to the struggles between Hazel and Archer.
After a terrible crash that took the lives of many of the residents near Sanders Army Base four children were left orphaned. One girl got out of town, saved by an aunt that lived far away. Three kids weren't so lucky as to have relatives to claim them. Luckily, one woman was willing to take the three into her home and look after them. Archer was the oldest and Eli and Hazel were only a year apart and together they were known as the Airplane Orphans. They became each other's lifelines.
As would be expected, Archer, Eli, and Hazel each suffered trauma as a result of losing a parent although each of them handled it a different way. They each developed a role within their new family. Archer was the one to pull Hazel out of her isolation, Eli calmed Archer's rage, and Hazel gave Archer a reason to feel needed.
As the grew up, Archer and Hazel started to see each other differently. They never felt like brother and sister, but everyone else saw them that way. One night of passion changed everything for their trio. Hazel couldn't stop herself going into Archer's room late one evening and climbing into his bed. After fulfilling her dream of spending the night in Archer's arms, she has to muster the courage to follow through with her plan to leave town because she knows they could never be together. It would crush Eli and her adoptive mother, Nora.
Hazel was gone for four years and in the six months she's been home she's been hiding out. She's afraid to see Archer. Afraid of the secrets of coming out. But, Archer's had enough. With the intentions of just smoothing things over for the sake of their "family," Archer goes to Hazel's house to confront her. It doesn't take long for them to realize that their feelings are still the same. Soon they are involved in a hot, steamy, reunion and they don't know how they'll ever go back to being apart. Will Hazel be willing to going public if it ends up hurting Eli and Nora? What will everyone think if two of the Airplane Orphans become a couple?
In addition to the complicated relationship there is a major multiple homicide in town that Archer and Eli have to work. (Archer and Eli are partners). Turns out there are many secrets in town and these secrets are about to encroach on Archer, Eli, and Hazel's lives. Hopefully, they'll make it out alive.
I loved this book and never wanted to put it down. The romance and the mystery are balanced in such a way that both parts are compelling. The conclusion to the mystery is so tragic and even though the crime was brutal, you still felt sorry for the perpetrators. Whether you are a mystery/suspense fan or a romance fan, you'll definitely want to put this book on your TBR pile.
After a terrible crash that took the lives of many of the residents near Sanders Army Base four children were left orphaned. One girl got out of town, saved by an aunt that lived far away. Three kids weren't so lucky as to have relatives to claim them. Luckily, one woman was willing to take the three into her home and look after them. Archer was the oldest and Eli and Hazel were only a year apart and together they were known as the Airplane Orphans. They became each other's lifelines.
As would be expected, Archer, Eli, and Hazel each suffered trauma as a result of losing a parent although each of them handled it a different way. They each developed a role within their new family. Archer was the one to pull Hazel out of her isolation, Eli calmed Archer's rage, and Hazel gave Archer a reason to feel needed.
As the grew up, Archer and Hazel started to see each other differently. They never felt like brother and sister, but everyone else saw them that way. One night of passion changed everything for their trio. Hazel couldn't stop herself going into Archer's room late one evening and climbing into his bed. After fulfilling her dream of spending the night in Archer's arms, she has to muster the courage to follow through with her plan to leave town because she knows they could never be together. It would crush Eli and her adoptive mother, Nora.
Hazel was gone for four years and in the six months she's been home she's been hiding out. She's afraid to see Archer. Afraid of the secrets of coming out. But, Archer's had enough. With the intentions of just smoothing things over for the sake of their "family," Archer goes to Hazel's house to confront her. It doesn't take long for them to realize that their feelings are still the same. Soon they are involved in a hot, steamy, reunion and they don't know how they'll ever go back to being apart. Will Hazel be willing to going public if it ends up hurting Eli and Nora? What will everyone think if two of the Airplane Orphans become a couple?
In addition to the complicated relationship there is a major multiple homicide in town that Archer and Eli have to work. (Archer and Eli are partners). Turns out there are many secrets in town and these secrets are about to encroach on Archer, Eli, and Hazel's lives. Hopefully, they'll make it out alive.
I loved this book and never wanted to put it down. The romance and the mystery are balanced in such a way that both parts are compelling. The conclusion to the mystery is so tragic and even though the crime was brutal, you still felt sorry for the perpetrators. Whether you are a mystery/suspense fan or a romance fan, you'll definitely want to put this book on your TBR pile.
June 5, 2016
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Dirty Sexy Secret is a fast paced, suspenseful read, with a bit of forbidden romance thrown in!
I wasn’t 100% sure what I was going to get in this book, but I definitely enjoyed the ride we were taken on. In Dirty Sexy Secret, we meet Hazel, Eli, and Archer. The three, along with their foster mom Nora, are a make-shift family brought together by tragedy. Eli and Hazel have always had a brother and sister type of relationship, but Hazel and Archer’s relationship never was like that. They were each others best friends, companions, and secret keepers. When something happens that sends Hazel to Boston for a few years, things spin out of control and Archer is left with unanswered questions, and Hazel ends up running from her past.
When Hazel comes back to Green County, she’s still adrift and avoiding Archer like the plague. When Eli has had enough of these two avoiding each other, things heat up between Archer and Hazel, but never enough for them to finally admit their feelings. I understand why they both felt like they couldn’t have what they wanted, but at the same time, they were not related in the least bit, and if you love someone, you need to find a way to make it work, or always wonder “what if”.
Not only is Hazel dealing with Archer, but also trying to write a story to break out the underworld of Green County. She never expected a triple homicide near her house, to bring her the story of a lifetime, but also put her and everyone she loves in danger. To say I was not thrilled with how she handled this situation would be an understatement, but at the same time, I understand why she handled things the way she did.
This perfect little town and county may seem perfect on the outside, but has some deep and dark secrets that are exposed in this book. I really enjoyed the plot-line of this book, but at the same time I wished some parts would not have been as rushed as they were, and more answers would have been given as to why Hazel came back to Green County.
If you’re looking for a fast paced suspenseful romance, I suggest adding Dirty Sexy Secret to your TBR list today. It was a quick read, and I am definitely looking forward to more stories from this tiny little community, and what other secrets are unveiled as the series continues!
Dirty Sexy Secret is a fast paced, suspenseful read, with a bit of forbidden romance thrown in!
I wasn’t 100% sure what I was going to get in this book, but I definitely enjoyed the ride we were taken on. In Dirty Sexy Secret, we meet Hazel, Eli, and Archer. The three, along with their foster mom Nora, are a make-shift family brought together by tragedy. Eli and Hazel have always had a brother and sister type of relationship, but Hazel and Archer’s relationship never was like that. They were each others best friends, companions, and secret keepers. When something happens that sends Hazel to Boston for a few years, things spin out of control and Archer is left with unanswered questions, and Hazel ends up running from her past.
When Hazel comes back to Green County, she’s still adrift and avoiding Archer like the plague. When Eli has had enough of these two avoiding each other, things heat up between Archer and Hazel, but never enough for them to finally admit their feelings. I understand why they both felt like they couldn’t have what they wanted, but at the same time, they were not related in the least bit, and if you love someone, you need to find a way to make it work, or always wonder “what if”.
Not only is Hazel dealing with Archer, but also trying to write a story to break out the underworld of Green County. She never expected a triple homicide near her house, to bring her the story of a lifetime, but also put her and everyone she loves in danger. To say I was not thrilled with how she handled this situation would be an understatement, but at the same time, I understand why she handled things the way she did.
This perfect little town and county may seem perfect on the outside, but has some deep and dark secrets that are exposed in this book. I really enjoyed the plot-line of this book, but at the same time I wished some parts would not have been as rushed as they were, and more answers would have been given as to why Hazel came back to Green County.
If you’re looking for a fast paced suspenseful romance, I suggest adding Dirty Sexy Secret to your TBR list today. It was a quick read, and I am definitely looking forward to more stories from this tiny little community, and what other secrets are unveiled as the series continues!
May 30, 2016
I always get so excited when a new Nazarea Andrews book hits my Kindle; how could I not? She's one of my Ultimate Authors!! And after one look at the cover and synopsis of Dirty Sexy Secret (the first book in a brand new series) I couldn't wait to dive in.
I practically inhaled this book. It had me completely hooked from the very beginning and I devoured it all in just one sitting! There was no stoping once I entered the world of Hazel and Archer. A reporter and a cop who also happen to be foster siblings? How could I say no to that??
I loved the romance side to the book; Hazel and Archer created some serious sexual tension which practically had steam coming off the pages (or off my Kindle screen, should I say), and I was definitely rooting for them to be together. But it wasn't just the love story which had me turning the pages.
I loved the story arc! I loved the past set up and where the characters were in the present. And I loved all the drama that escalated because I had absolutely no idea what or how we were going to find out.
I thought the ending to Dirty Sexy Secret was very fitting of both the story and the characters, and knowing that the following books in this series will be about Hazel and Archer's friends has me even more excited for Green County series to continue!
Fans of Nazarea Andrews will love this latest addition to her catalogue, and for those yet to read this author's work, Dirty Sexy Secret is the perfect place to start.
*ARC received in exchange for an honest review*
I practically inhaled this book. It had me completely hooked from the very beginning and I devoured it all in just one sitting! There was no stoping once I entered the world of Hazel and Archer. A reporter and a cop who also happen to be foster siblings? How could I say no to that??
I loved the romance side to the book; Hazel and Archer created some serious sexual tension which practically had steam coming off the pages (or off my Kindle screen, should I say), and I was definitely rooting for them to be together. But it wasn't just the love story which had me turning the pages.
I loved the story arc! I loved the past set up and where the characters were in the present. And I loved all the drama that escalated because I had absolutely no idea what or how we were going to find out.
I thought the ending to Dirty Sexy Secret was very fitting of both the story and the characters, and knowing that the following books in this series will be about Hazel and Archer's friends has me even more excited for Green County series to continue!
Fans of Nazarea Andrews will love this latest addition to her catalogue, and for those yet to read this author's work, Dirty Sexy Secret is the perfect place to start.
*ARC received in exchange for an honest review*
May 29, 2016
Well this book was a crazy whirl wind of drama...lol
This book is about Hazel coming home after several years of being away, she is now a Journalist and the boy she left behind all those years ago is Brandon Archer-he is now a Cop. Ohhh and Brandon is her foster brother. See where this is going? lol
It’s hard to resist the thing you’ve always wanted…
Growing up with Brandon Archer means I know him. Good. Bad. Everything in between.
It’s just never mattered.
My secret? That night. The one I stole, that’s kept me from Archer and Green County, for four years.
Now I’m home, and nothing has changed. Except me. And not in the way that means a damn thing.
Because I still want him.
Soooo now that they are back in the same town again, there has been some murders going on in the town and Brandon tries to investigate what is going on and stop the killer as Hazel tries to get her next story and both have to be careful because of the danger that lies ahead could hurt them both or even worse...get them both killed.
I do have to say that I did enjoy reading this book, but I had a hard time following at times at each chapter due to duel point of views. I would have to read a few of the lines to figure out who was talking or if it was the same person talking from the last chapter. This is a ARC so maybe the original will have name titles for the chapters as well. : )
I gave this book 4 iScream Books stars!!
This book is about Hazel coming home after several years of being away, she is now a Journalist and the boy she left behind all those years ago is Brandon Archer-he is now a Cop. Ohhh and Brandon is her foster brother. See where this is going? lol
It’s hard to resist the thing you’ve always wanted…
Growing up with Brandon Archer means I know him. Good. Bad. Everything in between.
It’s just never mattered.
My secret? That night. The one I stole, that’s kept me from Archer and Green County, for four years.
Now I’m home, and nothing has changed. Except me. And not in the way that means a damn thing.
Because I still want him.
Soooo now that they are back in the same town again, there has been some murders going on in the town and Brandon tries to investigate what is going on and stop the killer as Hazel tries to get her next story and both have to be careful because of the danger that lies ahead could hurt them both or even worse...get them both killed.
I do have to say that I did enjoy reading this book, but I had a hard time following at times at each chapter due to duel point of views. I would have to read a few of the lines to figure out who was talking or if it was the same person talking from the last chapter. This is a ARC so maybe the original will have name titles for the chapters as well. : )
I gave this book 4 iScream Books stars!!
June 8, 2016
Dirty Sexy Secrets, is an entertaining read. It’s filled with lust, desire, mystery and of course a ton of secrets.
Hazel hasn’t been to Green County in quite a few years. The last time she seen her foster brother Archer, was at a moment that changed everything in their lives. They’ve held this secret about each other for years. They came together as orphans. So it isn’t the most ideal situation.
Hazel is very stubborn and that plays out a lot throughout the story. But she’s determined to get to the secrets that are lying just above the surface in their small town.
Though, it was entertaining, it did lose me a little. It didn’t grasp me and want me to continue. But I powered through. The mystery is pretty well played out and didn’t really go as I expected. I wanted to get into this story. But the changing of character points of views, with no indication from the beginning. Kind of confused me. You’re thinking you're reading through one character but then realizing no it’s someone else.
Overall, I give this book a three. I think it was a good story. And there are a lot of elements that intertwine throughout. But like I said it didn’t grasp me. And I really didn’t connect much with the characters....Lissa
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Hazel hasn’t been to Green County in quite a few years. The last time she seen her foster brother Archer, was at a moment that changed everything in their lives. They’ve held this secret about each other for years. They came together as orphans. So it isn’t the most ideal situation.
Hazel is very stubborn and that plays out a lot throughout the story. But she’s determined to get to the secrets that are lying just above the surface in their small town.
Though, it was entertaining, it did lose me a little. It didn’t grasp me and want me to continue. But I powered through. The mystery is pretty well played out and didn’t really go as I expected. I wanted to get into this story. But the changing of character points of views, with no indication from the beginning. Kind of confused me. You’re thinking you're reading through one character but then realizing no it’s someone else.
Overall, I give this book a three. I think it was a good story. And there are a lot of elements that intertwine throughout. But like I said it didn’t grasp me. And I really didn’t connect much with the characters....Lissa
http://www.boundlessbookreviews.com
https://www.facebook.com/BBReviews
May 30, 2016
Holy sh$+! Loved it! Wow. Murder mystery hiding in a love story or a love story hiding in a mystery, either way well done. Four years after running from her feelings, Hazel Campton returns home and does what anyone else in her situation would, isolates. Brandon Archer decides six months is long enough to hide from their four year secret. But in little old Green County Hazel and Brandon aren't the only ones with secrets. While most of the story centers on the lovers Ms Andrews throws in enough details and subplot information so the mystery doesn't come out of left field and throw off the flow. There is also a wonderful bond between the characters that is realistic and honest. Wonderful story that couldn't put down.
I was given an arc in exchange for an honest review.
I was given an arc in exchange for an honest review.
June 11, 2016
Super Sexy Read, I couldn't put it down. Hazel and Brandon are electric!!!
Read
May 26, 2016**3 Stars** Full review and rating will be up at Boundless Book Reviews
June 1, 2016
3.5/5
Dirty Sexy Secret is a fast paced thrill ride of forbidden romance and suspense set in a small county full to the brim of secrets. Although for me the romance was so much as forbidden as restricted due to the views the characters hold themselves rather than the connection being taboo.
Hazel, Eli and Brandon were orphaned as teenagers by a tragic plane crash killing their military parents. Taken in by Nora, another casualty of the misfortune to fall upon the residents of Green County. While both Nora and Brandon view their relationship with Eli as siblings, they have never viewed each other as such, moreover they had an intense symbiotic relationship from the beginning; bolstering each other while taking care of Eli and Nora. Completely accepted for all their foibles, who isn't going to fall in love with that kind of partnership.
However, small towns have a tendency to stereotype individuals, placing them into carefully selected boxes, the only way to change opinion is by leaving and creating your own path. Despite their attraction and depth of connection, there is too many barriers for Brandon and Hazel to hurdle in order to develop their relationship when they were younger. Needing to define who they are as individuals both leave Green County to seek out their own identities. However, destiny ensures they both return to Green County and each other.
There are a lot of plot threads within Dirty Sexy Secret, a number of incidents pivotal to the characters are referred to within the narrative yet not fully divulged, adding to the tension of the story. While the romance is an integral part of the plot, especially the outside view of the relationship between Brandon and Hazel, it is the thriller elements that keep the reader on the edge of their seats. Green County may be rural and have a small town mentality within its four townships but it conceals some pretty nasty secrets - drug dealers, corruption, manipulation, prostitution and murder - all in a days work for Brandon and Eli who are partners on the force while Hazel is an investigative journalist with a tendency for finding trouble.
The plot within Dirty Sexy Secret is ingenious crafted weaving plot threads together in unexpected ways. There is so much more to uncover. If the rest of the series is anything like Dirty Sexy Secret it is set to be a sure-fire hit ♥
Dirty Sexy Secret is a fast paced thrill ride of forbidden romance and suspense set in a small county full to the brim of secrets. Although for me the romance was so much as forbidden as restricted due to the views the characters hold themselves rather than the connection being taboo.
Hazel, Eli and Brandon were orphaned as teenagers by a tragic plane crash killing their military parents. Taken in by Nora, another casualty of the misfortune to fall upon the residents of Green County. While both Nora and Brandon view their relationship with Eli as siblings, they have never viewed each other as such, moreover they had an intense symbiotic relationship from the beginning; bolstering each other while taking care of Eli and Nora. Completely accepted for all their foibles, who isn't going to fall in love with that kind of partnership.
However, small towns have a tendency to stereotype individuals, placing them into carefully selected boxes, the only way to change opinion is by leaving and creating your own path. Despite their attraction and depth of connection, there is too many barriers for Brandon and Hazel to hurdle in order to develop their relationship when they were younger. Needing to define who they are as individuals both leave Green County to seek out their own identities. However, destiny ensures they both return to Green County and each other.
There are a lot of plot threads within Dirty Sexy Secret, a number of incidents pivotal to the characters are referred to within the narrative yet not fully divulged, adding to the tension of the story. While the romance is an integral part of the plot, especially the outside view of the relationship between Brandon and Hazel, it is the thriller elements that keep the reader on the edge of their seats. Green County may be rural and have a small town mentality within its four townships but it conceals some pretty nasty secrets - drug dealers, corruption, manipulation, prostitution and murder - all in a days work for Brandon and Eli who are partners on the force while Hazel is an investigative journalist with a tendency for finding trouble.
The plot within Dirty Sexy Secret is ingenious crafted weaving plot threads together in unexpected ways. There is so much more to uncover. If the rest of the series is anything like Dirty Sexy Secret it is set to be a sure-fire hit ♥
June 13, 2016
~Cassie~
Dirty Sexy Secrets is book one of the Green County series. I have never read any of Andrews' work before but I definitely will be reading more of her books. It is a fast paced, suspenseful book. Throw in a love story years in the making and you have a great read!
Dirty Sexy Secrets is based in Green County, a small town where looks can be deceiving. So often, small towns can appear perfect from the outside, but underneath there is corruption and dirty secrets nobody talks about. Amidst this seemingly perfect backdrop is the story of Hazel and Archer. They fight their love for each other because they are foster siblings. They are part of the orphan three who lost their military parents in a plane crash. Even though they grew up together, they never felt like siblings.
Hazel was all kinds of messed up after losing first her mother and then her father. She always felt like she was not seen and that is where she liked to be. Hazel is very protective of those she loves and that leads her to keep secrets. The one person she cannot keep a secret from is Archer.
Archer is also damaged from losing his father in the plane crash. He lashes out and goes from one woman to the next. Archer feels his main goal in life is to protect his family. That is how he and Hazel connect in the beginning. They both want to protect their foster family and they keep each other’s dirty little secrets. They have chemistry that is extremely hot and steamy. When they actually connect they are explosive! The one complaint I had is that I feel like there was not enough about them as a couple. I would have really liked to have seen more of them one on one, and maybe an epilogue of how they were dealing with their relationship.
Dirty Sexy Secrets was a fast paced read. I could not put it down because I needed to see where the story was going and how it was going to get there! Andrews did a great job of drawing in her secondary characters and I was as invested in them as I was Hazel and Archer. This is a must read!
Dirty Sexy Secrets is book one of the Green County series. I have never read any of Andrews' work before but I definitely will be reading more of her books. It is a fast paced, suspenseful book. Throw in a love story years in the making and you have a great read!
Dirty Sexy Secrets is based in Green County, a small town where looks can be deceiving. So often, small towns can appear perfect from the outside, but underneath there is corruption and dirty secrets nobody talks about. Amidst this seemingly perfect backdrop is the story of Hazel and Archer. They fight their love for each other because they are foster siblings. They are part of the orphan three who lost their military parents in a plane crash. Even though they grew up together, they never felt like siblings.
Hazel was all kinds of messed up after losing first her mother and then her father. She always felt like she was not seen and that is where she liked to be. Hazel is very protective of those she loves and that leads her to keep secrets. The one person she cannot keep a secret from is Archer.
Archer is also damaged from losing his father in the plane crash. He lashes out and goes from one woman to the next. Archer feels his main goal in life is to protect his family. That is how he and Hazel connect in the beginning. They both want to protect their foster family and they keep each other’s dirty little secrets. They have chemistry that is extremely hot and steamy. When they actually connect they are explosive! The one complaint I had is that I feel like there was not enough about them as a couple. I would have really liked to have seen more of them one on one, and maybe an epilogue of how they were dealing with their relationship.
Dirty Sexy Secrets was a fast paced read. I could not put it down because I needed to see where the story was going and how it was going to get there! Andrews did a great job of drawing in her secondary characters and I was as invested in them as I was Hazel and Archer. This is a must read!
June 7, 2016
Panty Scorching- 4
Storyline-4
Angst- 2
Tissues-0
Value-4
Overall Rating- 4
Received an ARC for review
Reviewed by Joanna
I enjoyed this story, once I got further into it.
It was a great story love story with a twist and turn here and there mixed with a murder mystery.
You have Hazel who, because of a tragedy when she was younger, was in a foster family with two other boys, Brandon and Eli.
Their foster mom has something in common with them, and they become a “family”. They each have an important role in each other’s life… and it was fun to read how it all develops.
Hazel and Brandon have more than a “family” relationship… She leaves for 4 years and returns and had to face Brandon all over again.
“Every inch of me wants to slap him away. That’s always been my relationship with Archer. Pull him close, push him away – all of the dichotomy that is us.”
But boy does it get hot and steamy…
“And he takes it. Swallows down my scream like it’s nothing, his fingers slow and soothing in me, a gentle pet as I shudder and quake and he holds me through, coaxes me through.”
This was the first story I have read from this author, and it took me a bit to get used to her writing style. It wasn’t bad, it was just “different”.
The story is in each characters POV, and when it goes back and forth, it took me a few times before I finally was able to tell whose POV I was reading.
It is a great story, and I enjoyed the characters in the story. What was nice was… It’s different.
Storyline-4
Angst- 2
Tissues-0
Value-4
Overall Rating- 4
Received an ARC for review
Reviewed by Joanna
I enjoyed this story, once I got further into it.
It was a great story love story with a twist and turn here and there mixed with a murder mystery.
You have Hazel who, because of a tragedy when she was younger, was in a foster family with two other boys, Brandon and Eli.
Their foster mom has something in common with them, and they become a “family”. They each have an important role in each other’s life… and it was fun to read how it all develops.
Hazel and Brandon have more than a “family” relationship… She leaves for 4 years and returns and had to face Brandon all over again.
“Every inch of me wants to slap him away. That’s always been my relationship with Archer. Pull him close, push him away – all of the dichotomy that is us.”
But boy does it get hot and steamy…
“And he takes it. Swallows down my scream like it’s nothing, his fingers slow and soothing in me, a gentle pet as I shudder and quake and he holds me through, coaxes me through.”
This was the first story I have read from this author, and it took me a bit to get used to her writing style. It wasn’t bad, it was just “different”.
The story is in each characters POV, and when it goes back and forth, it took me a few times before I finally was able to tell whose POV I was reading.
It is a great story, and I enjoyed the characters in the story. What was nice was… It’s different.
June 5, 2016
Three killer, two cops, and a journalist walk into a bar. Sounds like a bad joke, right? It's not.
This one statement is at the very beginning of the book, and it reaches out a grabs you right from the start. You are drawn in wanting to know what it means, but it goes way beyond just the cover and the plot.
This is one of those books that carries multiple angles and has you spinning in several little directions wanting to know what his happening and who is ultimately responsible. But, not only do you get the suspense of are they going to become a couple, who is going to find out about their feelings and ultimately the relationship, but you get to feel out the history of what makes each of our main characters tick. This in itself makes the story so much more exciting.
Now, I have read romance mysteries, but this one I have to say is probably one of the best. Not just because of the romance, but because the way that the crime is written out and the way that it carries out for our book characters will have you chewing your fingernails wondering what direction our the author intends to take us.
This is a wonderful book to read for the reasons listed above. You have now got the reasons as to why I primarily liked it. I hope that you find your own reasons in addition to mine. It is a book that you will want to one click.
This one statement is at the very beginning of the book, and it reaches out a grabs you right from the start. You are drawn in wanting to know what it means, but it goes way beyond just the cover and the plot.
This is one of those books that carries multiple angles and has you spinning in several little directions wanting to know what his happening and who is ultimately responsible. But, not only do you get the suspense of are they going to become a couple, who is going to find out about their feelings and ultimately the relationship, but you get to feel out the history of what makes each of our main characters tick. This in itself makes the story so much more exciting.
Now, I have read romance mysteries, but this one I have to say is probably one of the best. Not just because of the romance, but because the way that the crime is written out and the way that it carries out for our book characters will have you chewing your fingernails wondering what direction our the author intends to take us.
This is a wonderful book to read for the reasons listed above. You have now got the reasons as to why I primarily liked it. I hope that you find your own reasons in addition to mine. It is a book that you will want to one click.
May 29, 2016
The Problem with living in a small town, everyone knows everything about everyone. Hazel and Archer have secrets, secrets they've kept from everyone including their family, Hazel has been in love with Archer since she was fourteen, and Archer knows she is off limits, Why? Hazel is Archer's foster sister, but it doesn't make him want her any less.
When Hazel returns home after four years, nothing has changed, they still want each other, but when a familiar face shows up on her doorstep covered in danger, and all those best kept secrets are sure to come spilling out.
An enjoyable read, that wasn't hard hitting even though it had some pretty hard aspects it wasn't a dark read. I got a bit confused as the chapters kept switching from different POV's both at the start of the chapters and sometimes in the middle of chapters but once I got into it didn't spoil the book for me.
A good enjoyable book that could be read with ease and didn't need to overthink things while reading.
When Hazel returns home after four years, nothing has changed, they still want each other, but when a familiar face shows up on her doorstep covered in danger, and all those best kept secrets are sure to come spilling out.
An enjoyable read, that wasn't hard hitting even though it had some pretty hard aspects it wasn't a dark read. I got a bit confused as the chapters kept switching from different POV's both at the start of the chapters and sometimes in the middle of chapters but once I got into it didn't spoil the book for me.
A good enjoyable book that could be read with ease and didn't need to overthink things while reading.
June 5, 2016
What a story! It's intriguing and dangerous, hot and sarcasm is everything, secrets and lies, love, lust, friendship and family.
It has so many layers, not only he story but each character as well. It's like a puzzle and throughout the story you need to find the right pieces to connect everything.
Hazel left Green County for a reason, but now she is back and she has to face her brother, Eli, Archer, mama and her best friend, Gabe.
She isn't the only one with secrets, in fact it seems everyone hides just as well as she does.
Archer..This man..He has a different role for each person close to him, but I especially love him with Hazel, still a badass but softer somehow.
Eli is still some kind of mystery and I really hope he gets a book, as well as Gabe.
Other characters come into play and they make quiet and impression lol..you'll see why when you read it.
I finished the story just a few minutes ago and I was so engrossed, I don't think I will be ready to say goodbye anytime soon.
It has so many layers, not only he story but each character as well. It's like a puzzle and throughout the story you need to find the right pieces to connect everything.
Hazel left Green County for a reason, but now she is back and she has to face her brother, Eli, Archer, mama and her best friend, Gabe.
She isn't the only one with secrets, in fact it seems everyone hides just as well as she does.
Archer..This man..He has a different role for each person close to him, but I especially love him with Hazel, still a badass but softer somehow.
Eli is still some kind of mystery and I really hope he gets a book, as well as Gabe.
Other characters come into play and they make quiet and impression lol..you'll see why when you read it.
I finished the story just a few minutes ago and I was so engrossed, I don't think I will be ready to say goodbye anytime soon.
June 6, 2016
This was a new author for me and I really enjoyed reading this book by this author. Dirty Sexy Secret is a fast paced, little bit of romance thrown in it and filled with suspense. I liked the plot in Dirty Sexy Secret it was amazing and had me hooked on the characters as well. This story tells about 3 people Hazel, Eli and Archer and their step mom Nora as they struggle with tragedy and it brings them closer together. Eli and Archer were hot, hot loved their characters they were great. Hazel was another good character to like she was interesting to read about.
*** review on behalf of obsessed by books ***
*** review on behalf of obsessed by books ***
May 30, 2016
Where do I start?
First off, I've waited rather impatiently for this book since the blurb and that amazing cover splashed up in my newsfeed. I needed this book.
And it did not disappoint. Even a little.
It was fast paced and thrilling, between watching Hazel and Archer play tug-of-war and watching Green County's dirty secrets bubble to the surface, I was absolutely riveted.
Don't read this book if you have things to do. They will not get done. This book devoured me.
Six stars, if I could.
First off, I've waited rather impatiently for this book since the blurb and that amazing cover splashed up in my newsfeed. I needed this book.
And it did not disappoint. Even a little.
It was fast paced and thrilling, between watching Hazel and Archer play tug-of-war and watching Green County's dirty secrets bubble to the surface, I was absolutely riveted.
Don't read this book if you have things to do. They will not get done. This book devoured me.
Six stars, if I could.
June 5, 2016
Could have used an epilogue and some more of Archer and Hazel together but I did enjoy it.
January 8, 2025
This is my first book by Nazarea Andrews.I went in without much of an idea about what it was going to be about and ended up really loving it.This book has the perfect mix of mystery,romance and familial connections in it.
Hazel is back in Green County, her hometown, after four years.She has been avoiding her foster brothers for six months but she can't prolong the inevitable forever.She is an investigative journalist who has just lost her job in Boston.On the other hand we have Brandon Archer, who along with her other foster brother-Eli, is a cop.The three are referred to as the Airplane Orphans, as they lost their families in a plane crash at the Green County base.They were taken in by a loving woman Nora, who made sure that they got all that they needed.
Though they are a tight-knit family, Brandon and Hazel are so much more to each other than just that.After a passionate night that they shared four years ago, Hazel skipped town and ran away.Now, she is back.But this story is far more than just a romance.The County has lots of secrets and they slowly come to light as the author peels away the layers, one at a time.Hazel, Eli and Brandon each have their own vices and secrets that they are keeping.
Each character has been created in a beautifully intricate manner. Noone is just one-dimensional here.Everyone from Hazel's best friend Gabe, to the creepy twins have stories and secrets.Soon, after we get past the initial meetings and the getting together, we learn the pasts of the characters and what happened when Hazel was away.Then, a triple homicide happens shaking up the quiet peace of the town, forcing everyone to finally look at the things that have been kept hidden for so long.And Hazel is the one to tell this story.
I loved the story in this book and the secrets and mystery kept me hooked.I ate it all up in one sitting.The relationship between Hazel and Brandon was beautiful.The way they kept each other's secrets and silently protected each other and their family.Eli and Gabe were also fascinating. I hope we find out more about them in the next book.
So. if you're looking for a book with the perfect mix of intrigue,sexiness and drama, give this one a try as you'll definitely end up loving it!!
Hazel is back in Green County, her hometown, after four years.She has been avoiding her foster brothers for six months but she can't prolong the inevitable forever.She is an investigative journalist who has just lost her job in Boston.On the other hand we have Brandon Archer, who along with her other foster brother-Eli, is a cop.The three are referred to as the Airplane Orphans, as they lost their families in a plane crash at the Green County base.They were taken in by a loving woman Nora, who made sure that they got all that they needed.
Though they are a tight-knit family, Brandon and Hazel are so much more to each other than just that.After a passionate night that they shared four years ago, Hazel skipped town and ran away.Now, she is back.But this story is far more than just a romance.The County has lots of secrets and they slowly come to light as the author peels away the layers, one at a time.Hazel, Eli and Brandon each have their own vices and secrets that they are keeping.
Each character has been created in a beautifully intricate manner. Noone is just one-dimensional here.Everyone from Hazel's best friend Gabe, to the creepy twins have stories and secrets.Soon, after we get past the initial meetings and the getting together, we learn the pasts of the characters and what happened when Hazel was away.Then, a triple homicide happens shaking up the quiet peace of the town, forcing everyone to finally look at the things that have been kept hidden for so long.And Hazel is the one to tell this story.
I loved the story in this book and the secrets and mystery kept me hooked.I ate it all up in one sitting.The relationship between Hazel and Brandon was beautiful.The way they kept each other's secrets and silently protected each other and their family.Eli and Gabe were also fascinating. I hope we find out more about them in the next book.
So. if you're looking for a book with the perfect mix of intrigue,sexiness and drama, give this one a try as you'll definitely end up loving it!!
July 15, 2022
Forbidden romance with a murder twist. I’m not really sure what I was expecting when I started this book as part of the 1001 Dark Collections Discovery 2 book but it was a good story.
There are definitely some questions that need answers about peoples pasts but I’m sure those will be figured out in the next book.
The romance portion of the book was done well but the murder part could have used some more information. I feel like it was glossed over.
There are definitely some questions that need answers about peoples pasts but I’m sure those will be figured out in the next book.
The romance portion of the book was done well but the murder part could have used some more information. I feel like it was glossed over.
June 10, 2016
Find this review and more at Ramblings From This Chick
Dirty Sexy Secret is the first book in the new Green County series from Nazarea Andrews. I have really enjoyed her books in the past, so I couldn't wait to get my hands on this one with that sexy cover. While there were things that I liked here, this book was completely different from what I have read from her in the past. It wasn't as polished as her past books have been, and I found myself struggling to get through this book on more than one occasion.
After a tragic accident leaves a small town reeling, Hazel Campton and Brandon Archer are taken in by a woman who helps them form a new family. Hazel, Archer, and the foster brother Elijah become close, but while they feel like Elijah is their brother, they both find themselves drawn to each other in a way that is far from brother and sister. One night things change between them forever, but Hazel runs leaving the guys and their small town behind. But when she returns four years later everything has changed but how she feels about Archer. Now an investigative reporter Hazel finds herself digging into something that her town has kept secret for years and sets out to find the truth while Elijah and Archer (now cops) investigate another incident in town. But when everything appears to be connected, the three of them realize that they are in far more danger than they ever suspected.
I liked all the characters here, but I never felt as though I really knew most of them or was able to connect with them. I can tell you how they all related to one another and how close they were. But I really don't feel as though I could give you many specifics when it came to their personalities. I loved what a tight unit they were though, proving that you can be a family without being related by blood. You could tell that things had always been different between Hazel and Archer than they were with Elijah though, and their connection was very strong. I do think that as strong as their connection was though and as much as they knew about one another, that they had some communication issues. There seemed to be a lot that should have been discussed between them that they never talked about, both in the past and present. I also felt like while they had chemistry and were clearly attracted to one another, that there was so much going on here we didn't really get to see them fully explore things between them. The romance felt to be sort of an afterthought rather than the focus, with Hazel and Archer taking a backseat to everything else going on around them.
My biggest complaints though are things that kept me from loving this book, but are also things that could have been fixed before publication. Since I had an advanced copy, I am not sure what the final version of this story looks like. But this version was filled with errors. While you expect that spelling and minor issues will be fixed, there were so many name inconsistencies here that it was often times hard to keep everything straight. (main characters, not secondary characters) We were given several POVs, and they would often times switch not only at the start of a new chapter but in the middle of chapters. There were no labels or any indication of which POV we were getting and it was very confusing. There were many times I thought it was one character's POV only to get a few paragraphs in and discover that I was completely wrong and it was someone else's. There were several times that Hazel referred to Archer as her best friend, while several times she referred to Gabe as her best friend rather than using either of their names. It was hard at times to figure out who she was talking about. The thoughts and dialogue got to be very repetitive at times, with things constantly being rehashed. The other thing that really bothered me and had me wanting to DNF almost before I even got started was the fact that at the beginning of the story so many characters were present and referred to as though we should know who they were. It felt like we were being dropped into the middle of a story already in progress. It was hard to get into because I felt like I was missing so much information already.
While I do like how things turned out and the fact that this one had some twists and turns I didn't expect, I will admit that I almost gave up on it several times. I think ultimately it was worth the read, but it just had so many issues that it kept me from really loving it despite how much potential was there. Like I said before though, some or all of these things might have been fixed before the final published version. But for me, this one was confusing and a mess to get through. I am looking forward to Gabe's brother Aiden getting his story in Dirty Stolen Forever. We didn't get to see much of him here, but what I did see made me want more. While I really like Nazarea's books, I will admit that this one wasn't my favorite. It was still good though, and I think it is worth the read even with the criticisms I had.
**ARC Provided by Inkslinger PR**
Dirty Sexy Secret is the first book in the new Green County series from Nazarea Andrews. I have really enjoyed her books in the past, so I couldn't wait to get my hands on this one with that sexy cover. While there were things that I liked here, this book was completely different from what I have read from her in the past. It wasn't as polished as her past books have been, and I found myself struggling to get through this book on more than one occasion.
After a tragic accident leaves a small town reeling, Hazel Campton and Brandon Archer are taken in by a woman who helps them form a new family. Hazel, Archer, and the foster brother Elijah become close, but while they feel like Elijah is their brother, they both find themselves drawn to each other in a way that is far from brother and sister. One night things change between them forever, but Hazel runs leaving the guys and their small town behind. But when she returns four years later everything has changed but how she feels about Archer. Now an investigative reporter Hazel finds herself digging into something that her town has kept secret for years and sets out to find the truth while Elijah and Archer (now cops) investigate another incident in town. But when everything appears to be connected, the three of them realize that they are in far more danger than they ever suspected.
I liked all the characters here, but I never felt as though I really knew most of them or was able to connect with them. I can tell you how they all related to one another and how close they were. But I really don't feel as though I could give you many specifics when it came to their personalities. I loved what a tight unit they were though, proving that you can be a family without being related by blood. You could tell that things had always been different between Hazel and Archer than they were with Elijah though, and their connection was very strong. I do think that as strong as their connection was though and as much as they knew about one another, that they had some communication issues. There seemed to be a lot that should have been discussed between them that they never talked about, both in the past and present. I also felt like while they had chemistry and were clearly attracted to one another, that there was so much going on here we didn't really get to see them fully explore things between them. The romance felt to be sort of an afterthought rather than the focus, with Hazel and Archer taking a backseat to everything else going on around them.
My biggest complaints though are things that kept me from loving this book, but are also things that could have been fixed before publication. Since I had an advanced copy, I am not sure what the final version of this story looks like. But this version was filled with errors. While you expect that spelling and minor issues will be fixed, there were so many name inconsistencies here that it was often times hard to keep everything straight. (main characters, not secondary characters) We were given several POVs, and they would often times switch not only at the start of a new chapter but in the middle of chapters. There were no labels or any indication of which POV we were getting and it was very confusing. There were many times I thought it was one character's POV only to get a few paragraphs in and discover that I was completely wrong and it was someone else's. There were several times that Hazel referred to Archer as her best friend, while several times she referred to Gabe as her best friend rather than using either of their names. It was hard at times to figure out who she was talking about. The thoughts and dialogue got to be very repetitive at times, with things constantly being rehashed. The other thing that really bothered me and had me wanting to DNF almost before I even got started was the fact that at the beginning of the story so many characters were present and referred to as though we should know who they were. It felt like we were being dropped into the middle of a story already in progress. It was hard to get into because I felt like I was missing so much information already.
While I do like how things turned out and the fact that this one had some twists and turns I didn't expect, I will admit that I almost gave up on it several times. I think ultimately it was worth the read, but it just had so many issues that it kept me from really loving it despite how much potential was there. Like I said before though, some or all of these things might have been fixed before the final published version. But for me, this one was confusing and a mess to get through. I am looking forward to Gabe's brother Aiden getting his story in Dirty Stolen Forever. We didn't get to see much of him here, but what I did see made me want more. While I really like Nazarea's books, I will admit that this one wasn't my favorite. It was still good though, and I think it is worth the read even with the criticisms I had.
**ARC Provided by Inkslinger PR**
April 14, 2018
something so tragic made this a beautifully fawked up story with a happy ending. hazel, archer and eli's story.. what can i say?? except that i enjoyed the read. overall, im glad i did.
June 5, 2016
Check out more of my reviews on at Home. Love. Books. - The best place to find your next book! http://www.homelovebooks.com
I must admit, this is a relatively new author for me, but I liked Stardust Destiny, so I was pretty excited about this book. I honestly wasn't sure what to expect from this book because it is so vastly different then Stardust Destiny, I mean one is basically mobbed up and the other is small town USA, but regardless I was ready to jump in with both feet.
It's beyond obvious when this book first starts that there is a lot of backstory going on between the characters, and this is one of those books where it slowly is all revealed to you. I like backstory, and I like how it wasn't all throw at you all at once, the slow reveal kept me interested in finding out more as the book continued. So this book is a lot about coming home, our heroine, Hazel, is back after four years away, and she has some seriously strained relationships. Her and her best friend Gabe are in this weird awkward place. Her foster brother Eli and her seem to be doing better then Hazel is with any of her other relationships, but things are definitely different. And as for Archer... her other foster brother, well things are tension filled, and maybe that's because he's the reason she left in the first place. Having feelings for him was never part of her plan, so she ran.
While there is a lot of interpersonal relationship dynamics at work here, and they are really interesting to see how they play out, they all play out under the backdrop of a bit of a mystery. It takes a minute for the mystery elements to show themselves, but the fact that Eli and Archer are cops play a big role in what's going on. When the book picks up the mystery thread there is a massacre, which is a huge deal in a tiny town like Green County, and everyone is scrambling to figure out what happened and who is responsible. And Hazel, well she is interested as an investigative reporter, but this story hits home in ways none of them were ready for.
I received an ARC of this book, so my biggest issues with the book were things I assume got fixed before it was published (the names were sometimes wrong or mixed up), but other that that if I had one thing I wish were different was that it was longer so maybe we would have had more time with the backstory. I feel like especially with Eli there is a lot going on with him that maybe would have been helpful to shine more of a light on. The book has a nice pace to it, and the dynamics between Hazel and Archer were great. Sometimes there were stand offish, other times it seemed like they were the same person, they just belonged together, and other time were just plain hot. So if you like complex relationship with a bit of mystery thrown in, then this might be the book for you.
This review was originally posted on Home. Love. Books. - The best place to find your next book!
I must admit, this is a relatively new author for me, but I liked Stardust Destiny, so I was pretty excited about this book. I honestly wasn't sure what to expect from this book because it is so vastly different then Stardust Destiny, I mean one is basically mobbed up and the other is small town USA, but regardless I was ready to jump in with both feet.
It's beyond obvious when this book first starts that there is a lot of backstory going on between the characters, and this is one of those books where it slowly is all revealed to you. I like backstory, and I like how it wasn't all throw at you all at once, the slow reveal kept me interested in finding out more as the book continued. So this book is a lot about coming home, our heroine, Hazel, is back after four years away, and she has some seriously strained relationships. Her and her best friend Gabe are in this weird awkward place. Her foster brother Eli and her seem to be doing better then Hazel is with any of her other relationships, but things are definitely different. And as for Archer... her other foster brother, well things are tension filled, and maybe that's because he's the reason she left in the first place. Having feelings for him was never part of her plan, so she ran.
While there is a lot of interpersonal relationship dynamics at work here, and they are really interesting to see how they play out, they all play out under the backdrop of a bit of a mystery. It takes a minute for the mystery elements to show themselves, but the fact that Eli and Archer are cops play a big role in what's going on. When the book picks up the mystery thread there is a massacre, which is a huge deal in a tiny town like Green County, and everyone is scrambling to figure out what happened and who is responsible. And Hazel, well she is interested as an investigative reporter, but this story hits home in ways none of them were ready for.
I received an ARC of this book, so my biggest issues with the book were things I assume got fixed before it was published (the names were sometimes wrong or mixed up), but other that that if I had one thing I wish were different was that it was longer so maybe we would have had more time with the backstory. I feel like especially with Eli there is a lot going on with him that maybe would have been helpful to shine more of a light on. The book has a nice pace to it, and the dynamics between Hazel and Archer were great. Sometimes there were stand offish, other times it seemed like they were the same person, they just belonged together, and other time were just plain hot. So if you like complex relationship with a bit of mystery thrown in, then this might be the book for you.
This review was originally posted on Home. Love. Books. - The best place to find your next book!
June 5, 2016
EEEPPP! I have waited and longed for this book and I didn't even know how much I needed it until I finished it last night. There is so much happening in this story that I am going to break it down into two sections but also leave out any spoilers because I want you to experience the greatness like I did.
First section, the plot: Amazing is the only word that I need to say. N can seriously plot out some intricate tales and weave all of their goodness together for our personal enjoyment and discovery as readers.
For instance, the back-story to Hazel, Archer, and Eli was so intriguing that I found myself immediately in love with all three characters and craved for the time when they would find happiness because life kinda owed it to them. However, life doesn’t get that memo.
This book isn't just about a girl named Hazel who shouldn't love a boy named Archer and their struggle as they grow up still craving each other. This is about so much more than their forbidden love. The underlying story is dark and brilliant and interweaves itself throughout the whole town, bringing it all together in the end with a promise of more to come.
Second section, the characters: Archer = holy moly hot and Eli is not far behind. Both are wonderful characters that held their own throughout the story and each containing a huge amount of intrigue. They have always been protectors of Hazel and are now protectors of Green County, serving as detectives. Their world gets knocked out of orbit by Hazel’s return home and a multi-homicide case. Hazel, a reporter, gets pulled into the dark story of the county (not willing) and is on the case due to the threats on her family's lives. So, yeah, a corrupt county, a gritty story, and forbidden loves (yep, plural!) make this book one of favorites by N.
I don't think I have come across a book from N that made me just feel - reread that sentence because I said, "just feel." N’s books make me feel beyond a level of just feel. In DSS, I felt like I was in the mix of everything. How N wrote these characters made me feel like I was inside of them, living their lives, feeling their fear and their wants. I was experiencing these heart-pounding moments when things got intense and things got intense! So someone hand this women a trophy...no, for real, hand it to her because she deserves it for this book and for every book she has written and more than likely every book she will ever write.
First section, the plot: Amazing is the only word that I need to say. N can seriously plot out some intricate tales and weave all of their goodness together for our personal enjoyment and discovery as readers.
For instance, the back-story to Hazel, Archer, and Eli was so intriguing that I found myself immediately in love with all three characters and craved for the time when they would find happiness because life kinda owed it to them. However, life doesn’t get that memo.
This book isn't just about a girl named Hazel who shouldn't love a boy named Archer and their struggle as they grow up still craving each other. This is about so much more than their forbidden love. The underlying story is dark and brilliant and interweaves itself throughout the whole town, bringing it all together in the end with a promise of more to come.
Second section, the characters: Archer = holy moly hot and Eli is not far behind. Both are wonderful characters that held their own throughout the story and each containing a huge amount of intrigue. They have always been protectors of Hazel and are now protectors of Green County, serving as detectives. Their world gets knocked out of orbit by Hazel’s return home and a multi-homicide case. Hazel, a reporter, gets pulled into the dark story of the county (not willing) and is on the case due to the threats on her family's lives. So, yeah, a corrupt county, a gritty story, and forbidden loves (yep, plural!) make this book one of favorites by N.
I don't think I have come across a book from N that made me just feel - reread that sentence because I said, "just feel." N’s books make me feel beyond a level of just feel. In DSS, I felt like I was in the mix of everything. How N wrote these characters made me feel like I was inside of them, living their lives, feeling their fear and their wants. I was experiencing these heart-pounding moments when things got intense and things got intense! So someone hand this women a trophy...no, for real, hand it to her because she deserves it for this book and for every book she has written and more than likely every book she will ever write.
September 12, 2016
EEEPPP! I have waited and longed for this book and I didn't even know how much I needed it until I finished it last night. There is so much happening in this story that I am going to break it down into two sections but also leave out any spoilers because I want you to experience the greatness like I did.
First section, the plot: Amazing is the only word that I need to say. N can seriously plot out some intricate tales and weave all of their goodness together for our personal enjoyment and discovery as readers.
For instance, the back-story to Hazel, Archer, and Eli was so intriguing that I found myself immediately in love with all three characters and craved for the time when they would find happiness because life kinda owed it to them. However, life doesn’t get that memo.
This book isn't just about a girl named Hazel who shouldn't love a boy named Archer and their struggle as they grow up still craving each other. This is about so much more than their forbidden love. The underlying story is dark and brilliant and interweaves itself throughout the whole town, bringing it all together in the end with a promise of more to come.
Second section, the characters: Archer = holy moly hot and Eli is not far behind. Both are wonderful characters that held their own throughout the story and each containing a huge amount of intrigue. They have always been protectors of Hazel and are now protectors of Green County, serving as detectives. Their world gets knocked out of orbit by Hazel’s return home and a multi-homicide case. Hazel, a reporter, gets pulled into the dark story of the county (not willing) and is on the case due to the threats on her family's lives. So, yeah, a corrupt county, a gritty story, and forbidden loves (yep, plural!) make this book one of favorites by N.
I don't think I have come across a book from N that made me just feel - reread that sentence because I said, "just feel." N’s books make me feel beyond a level of just feel. In DSS, I felt like I was in the mix of everything. How N wrote these characters made me feel like I was inside of them, living their lives, feeling their fear and their wants. I was experiencing these heart-pounding moments when things got intense and things got intense! So someone hand this women a trophy...no, for real, hand it to her because she deserves it for this book and for every book she has written and more than likely every book she will ever write.
First section, the plot: Amazing is the only word that I need to say. N can seriously plot out some intricate tales and weave all of their goodness together for our personal enjoyment and discovery as readers.
For instance, the back-story to Hazel, Archer, and Eli was so intriguing that I found myself immediately in love with all three characters and craved for the time when they would find happiness because life kinda owed it to them. However, life doesn’t get that memo.
This book isn't just about a girl named Hazel who shouldn't love a boy named Archer and their struggle as they grow up still craving each other. This is about so much more than their forbidden love. The underlying story is dark and brilliant and interweaves itself throughout the whole town, bringing it all together in the end with a promise of more to come.
Second section, the characters: Archer = holy moly hot and Eli is not far behind. Both are wonderful characters that held their own throughout the story and each containing a huge amount of intrigue. They have always been protectors of Hazel and are now protectors of Green County, serving as detectives. Their world gets knocked out of orbit by Hazel’s return home and a multi-homicide case. Hazel, a reporter, gets pulled into the dark story of the county (not willing) and is on the case due to the threats on her family's lives. So, yeah, a corrupt county, a gritty story, and forbidden loves (yep, plural!) make this book one of favorites by N.
I don't think I have come across a book from N that made me just feel - reread that sentence because I said, "just feel." N’s books make me feel beyond a level of just feel. In DSS, I felt like I was in the mix of everything. How N wrote these characters made me feel like I was inside of them, living their lives, feeling their fear and their wants. I was experiencing these heart-pounding moments when things got intense and things got intense! So someone hand this women a trophy...no, for real, hand it to her because she deserves it for this book and for every book she has written and more than likely every book she will ever write.
June 7, 2016
Panty Scorching- 4
Storyline-4
Angst- 2
Tissues-0
Value-4
Overall Rating- 4
Kindle eARC
Reviewed by Joanna
I enjoyed this story, once I got further into it.
It was a great story love story with a twist and turn here and there mixed with a murder mystery.
You have Hazel who, because of a tragedy when she was younger, was in a foster family with two other boys, Brandon and Eli.
Their foster mom has something in common with them, and they become a “family”. They each have an important role in each other’s life… and it was fun to read how it all develops.
Hazel and Brandon have more than a “family” relationship… She leaves for 4 years and returns and had to face Brandon all over again.
“Every inch of me wants to slap him away. That’s always been my relationship with Archer. Pull him close, push him away – all of the dichotomy that is us.”
But boy does it get hot and steamy…
“And he takes it. Swallows down my scream like it’s nothing, his fingers slow and soothing in me, a gentle pet as I shudder and quake and he holds me through, coaxes me through.”
This was the first story I have read from this author, and it took me a bit to get used to her writing style. It wasn’t bad, it was just “different”.
The story is in each characters POV, and when it goes back and forth, it took me a few times before I finally was able to tell whose POV I was reading.
It is a great story, and I enjoyed the characters in the story. What was nice was… It’s different.
Storyline-4
Angst- 2
Tissues-0
Value-4
Overall Rating- 4
Kindle eARC
Reviewed by Joanna
I enjoyed this story, once I got further into it.
It was a great story love story with a twist and turn here and there mixed with a murder mystery.
You have Hazel who, because of a tragedy when she was younger, was in a foster family with two other boys, Brandon and Eli.
Their foster mom has something in common with them, and they become a “family”. They each have an important role in each other’s life… and it was fun to read how it all develops.
Hazel and Brandon have more than a “family” relationship… She leaves for 4 years and returns and had to face Brandon all over again.
“Every inch of me wants to slap him away. That’s always been my relationship with Archer. Pull him close, push him away – all of the dichotomy that is us.”
But boy does it get hot and steamy…
“And he takes it. Swallows down my scream like it’s nothing, his fingers slow and soothing in me, a gentle pet as I shudder and quake and he holds me through, coaxes me through.”
This was the first story I have read from this author, and it took me a bit to get used to her writing style. It wasn’t bad, it was just “different”.
The story is in each characters POV, and when it goes back and forth, it took me a few times before I finally was able to tell whose POV I was reading.
It is a great story, and I enjoyed the characters in the story. What was nice was… It’s different.
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