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Border Patrol #2
Off the Rails
A dedicated American agent risks everything for a forbidden beauty in this sensual, turbo-charged novel from the RITA-nominated author of Against the Wall ("A sexy, unique love story that I devoured in one day."—Monica Murphy).
Four years ago, when Ian Foster was working as a border patrol agent, he rescued an eighteen-year-old Mexican girl who'd been left for dead. He never forgot the gorgeous, resilient Maria Santos. Now Ian is an undercover ICE agent on the trail of a ruthless criminal with an intriguing Maria. She holds the only clue to the man's whereabouts. And Ian is tasked with crossing the border to find her.
Maria has always carried a torch for Ian, the handsome American who saved her life. When he shows up in her hometown, the attraction between them ignites. His intense gaze sets her blood on fire. But Maria is in serious danger. She owes a favor to a drug lord, and soon she's caught in the crosshairs of a treacherous...
Four years ago, when Ian Foster was working as a border patrol agent, he rescued an eighteen-year-old Mexican girl who'd been left for dead. He never forgot the gorgeous, resilient Maria Santos. Now Ian is an undercover ICE agent on the trail of a ruthless criminal with an intriguing Maria. She holds the only clue to the man's whereabouts. And Ian is tasked with crossing the border to find her.
Maria has always carried a torch for Ian, the handsome American who saved her life. When he shows up in her hometown, the attraction between them ignites. His intense gaze sets her blood on fire. But Maria is in serious danger. She owes a favor to a drug lord, and soon she's caught in the crosshairs of a treacherous...
262 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 13, 2016
9 people are currently reading
150 people want to read
About the author
Jill Sorenson
42 books457 followersJill Sorenson is the RITA-nominated author of more than a dozen novels, including the Aftershock series with HQN.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews
September 28, 2016
Pictures & Songs hopefully explain my feelings *wink*
Full review to follow be patient I am very far behind on them :D
Soul Asylum - Runaway Train
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NRtvq...
Miley Cyrus - Wrecking Ball
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=My2FR...
Skid Row - I Remember You
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ivFYV...
Train - Drops of Jupiter (Official Video)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Xf-L...
Hootie And The Blowfish - Let Her Cry
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1aVHL...
Toni Braxton - Un-Break My Heart
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p2Rch...
Aerosmith - I Don't Want to Miss a Thing
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JkK8g...
To the Author – I want more :D
ARC Received via GR AUTHOR for honest opinion
https://coyoteuglyswaggerbookblog.wor...
(¯`v´¯)♥♥
Time for that reading glasses
A BIG Thank you to the author! :D
Full review to follow be patient I am very far behind on them :D
Soul Asylum - Runaway Train
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NRtvq...
Miley Cyrus - Wrecking Ball
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=My2FR...
Skid Row - I Remember You
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ivFYV...
Train - Drops of Jupiter (Official Video)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Xf-L...
Hootie And The Blowfish - Let Her Cry
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1aVHL...
Toni Braxton - Un-Break My Heart
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p2Rch...
Aerosmith - I Don't Want to Miss a Thing
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JkK8g...
To the Author – I want more :D
ARC Received via GR AUTHOR for honest opinion
https://coyoteuglyswaggerbookblog.wor...
(¯`v´¯)♥♥
Time for that reading glasses
A BIG Thank you to the author! :D
November 11, 2016
Expected publication: December 13th by Loveswept
Story Rating ~ 4 Stars!
Hero Rating ~ 5 Stars!
Heroine Rating ~ 5 Stars!
Heat Level ~ 3.5 Stars!
Ending ~ 4 Stars!
Overall Rating ~ 4 Stars!
OK, I did not check out this book before I grabbed it so I had NO idea this was a continuing story, despite that I still really enjoyed this read. It was fast paced with loads of action and danger around every bend in the road plus it had a few story-lines going all at once. I was easily hooked into this book and read for many hours at a time. There was some good heat added in but I have to say out of all the Jill Sorenson books I’ve read, this was the lowest steam level of them. Don’t get me wrong, it was still a steamy read, I felt as if Jill poured herself more into the story than into sex scenes which I think was a HUGE plus in this case.
I LOVED both Ian and Maria equally, they were both there for each other, caring, protecting and loving each other, they were perfect together. There were also some really good secondary characters of the good and bad kind.
The ending wrapped this story up well leaving me happy with the outcome. My only regret was NOT reading book one, Caught in The Act first.
*I receive an ARC from Random House Publishing Group - Loveswept via Netgalley in exchange for and honest review.*
Story Rating ~ 4 Stars!
Hero Rating ~ 5 Stars!
Heroine Rating ~ 5 Stars!
Heat Level ~ 3.5 Stars!
Ending ~ 4 Stars!
Overall Rating ~ 4 Stars!
OK, I did not check out this book before I grabbed it so I had NO idea this was a continuing story, despite that I still really enjoyed this read. It was fast paced with loads of action and danger around every bend in the road plus it had a few story-lines going all at once. I was easily hooked into this book and read for many hours at a time. There was some good heat added in but I have to say out of all the Jill Sorenson books I’ve read, this was the lowest steam level of them. Don’t get me wrong, it was still a steamy read, I felt as if Jill poured herself more into the story than into sex scenes which I think was a HUGE plus in this case.
I LOVED both Ian and Maria equally, they were both there for each other, caring, protecting and loving each other, they were perfect together. There were also some really good secondary characters of the good and bad kind.
The ending wrapped this story up well leaving me happy with the outcome. My only regret was NOT reading book one, Caught in The Act first.
*I receive an ARC from Random House Publishing Group - Loveswept via Netgalley in exchange for and honest review.*
December 13, 2016
I had a tough time enjoying this book. I wanted to like it, but I did not get the reason the author chose to write in in the manner in which she did. I spent the first portion of the book thinking that this was the second part of a series and I was clueless as to what was happening. I hate having to read a backstory to catch up to what is happening today....
The book had some great parts to it, with some steam and heat, plus some suspense along the way, but I was not fully connected to the characters. I really struggled getting into the book.
This one just didn't do it for me.
The book had some great parts to it, with some steam and heat, plus some suspense along the way, but I was not fully connected to the characters. I really struggled getting into the book.
This one just didn't do it for me.
June 2, 2025
I was recently thinking about this book. It definitely has strong potential but it fell a little short for me in execution. I did like the plot and Ian and Maria had great chemistry.
December 27, 2016
***ARC Provided by the Publisher and NetGalley***
2.5 Stars
I had a tough time connecting with this book, mainly because the initial meeting and the build up of the romance took place out of the reader's experience, and before the events of the book. It picked up in the middle, and while there were flashbacks, I was never really invested in their relationship.
I also found the pacing to be a little tedious and, while they were literally moving on the train, I felt there was little figurative movement in the story, which made it difficult to remain engaged with the events of the story.
I would have liked the opportunity to have been present for the initial meeting with Ian and Maria. Even if it was told in flashbacks...there are bits of their memory throughout the book, but the reader is never really let into those events and as a result there is a distance from the characters that exists throughout the book.
This distance effects all of the book, the ability to relate to Ian and Maria, to invest, to really be engaged with the plot. I also thought the plot was extraneous...I would have preferred to hear their story. The way they met and fell in love would have been enough to get through without adding anything additional into the mix. I would have preferred this aspect be more present.
I am not really able to recommend this book.
***This and other reviews also featured on “I’m A Sweet and Sassy Book Whore” http://www.imasweetandsassybookwhore.com***
2.5 Stars
I had a tough time connecting with this book, mainly because the initial meeting and the build up of the romance took place out of the reader's experience, and before the events of the book. It picked up in the middle, and while there were flashbacks, I was never really invested in their relationship.
I also found the pacing to be a little tedious and, while they were literally moving on the train, I felt there was little figurative movement in the story, which made it difficult to remain engaged with the events of the story.
I would have liked the opportunity to have been present for the initial meeting with Ian and Maria. Even if it was told in flashbacks...there are bits of their memory throughout the book, but the reader is never really let into those events and as a result there is a distance from the characters that exists throughout the book.
This distance effects all of the book, the ability to relate to Ian and Maria, to invest, to really be engaged with the plot. I also thought the plot was extraneous...I would have preferred to hear their story. The way they met and fell in love would have been enough to get through without adding anything additional into the mix. I would have preferred this aspect be more present.
I am not really able to recommend this book.
***This and other reviews also featured on “I’m A Sweet and Sassy Book Whore” http://www.imasweetandsassybookwhore.com***
September 21, 2016
Action packed conclusion to a story that was started in Caught in the Act. I highly recommend reading that before Off the Rails as it picks up immediately after.
When we last saw Ian and Maria, he had been fired from his job as a DEA agent and Maria had gone back to Mexico to deliver a letter to the daughter of a drug lord and the visit the family she hadnt seen in 4 years.
Even though Ian and Maria were not the main characters in Caught in the Act their story left a lasting impression on you and that they didnt get a HEA at the end really left me wanting to get the rest of their story. When Ian worked for Border Control he was the agent that found a young woman beaten and raped and had never been able to forget her. Four years later they reconnect in California when she is there illegally and he is undercover with the DEA. These two had such a strong connection but circumstances prevented any kind of a relationship. They ended up in the middle of a turf war between Mexican drug dealers which was another thread from Caught in the Act that was left open.
At the start of this book Ian is now temporarily working for ICE who are sending him back into Mexico undercover and Maria is back with her family but finds out that her brother has left to try to illegally get into the US to find her. Ian goes to Maria and ask for her help in locating the young daughter of one of the drug dealers he is searching for but when they find out she is missing too they both team up to try and find her and Maria's brother.
There are a few other side stories/POV of the drug dealers that all work up to a thrilling conclusion. You really need to have read the first book to understand everything that is going on in this one. I was excited to find out that the author finally wrote Ian and Maria's story and it was as suspenseful and edge of your seat as I knew it would be.
When we last saw Ian and Maria, he had been fired from his job as a DEA agent and Maria had gone back to Mexico to deliver a letter to the daughter of a drug lord and the visit the family she hadnt seen in 4 years.
Even though Ian and Maria were not the main characters in Caught in the Act their story left a lasting impression on you and that they didnt get a HEA at the end really left me wanting to get the rest of their story. When Ian worked for Border Control he was the agent that found a young woman beaten and raped and had never been able to forget her. Four years later they reconnect in California when she is there illegally and he is undercover with the DEA. These two had such a strong connection but circumstances prevented any kind of a relationship. They ended up in the middle of a turf war between Mexican drug dealers which was another thread from Caught in the Act that was left open.
At the start of this book Ian is now temporarily working for ICE who are sending him back into Mexico undercover and Maria is back with her family but finds out that her brother has left to try to illegally get into the US to find her. Ian goes to Maria and ask for her help in locating the young daughter of one of the drug dealers he is searching for but when they find out she is missing too they both team up to try and find her and Maria's brother.
There are a few other side stories/POV of the drug dealers that all work up to a thrilling conclusion. You really need to have read the first book to understand everything that is going on in this one. I was excited to find out that the author finally wrote Ian and Maria's story and it was as suspenseful and edge of your seat as I knew it would be.
October 14, 2017
I always enjoy this author's writing, but I especially love the Mexican setting and the less fantastical characters -they're not bikers- of this still dramatic action series. Though Ian was a little ruder than I remember. Sad that there's no more forthcoming according to her blog. I would have liked a book for Armando or LaGuardia.
September 19, 2016
Ian Foster’s and Maria Santos's story starts straight in the middle of everything that has gone wrong, and without some kind of context laid out, it was difficult to measure and feel the connection between them, apart from what Sorenson tries to describe of their difficult history. This was until I discovered that their story is sort of a continuation from ‘Caught in the Act’ which I haven’t read. Even so, in ‘Off the Rails’, I felt as though I’d lost half their story, or at least the definitive part of the story so crucial in getting a grasp of who they had been four years ago.
But with their history glossed over in the first few paragraphs and a variety of POVs coming into play soon after, I floundered for a period of time, trying to play catch up with the cast of characters and the nasty cartel business that had gotten everyone’s knickers in twists. It did get interesting though, despite my struggle with the initial pacing and structure and I caught on enough to want to know how Ian and Maria got on by the skin of their teeth.
Their relationship isn’t easy given what they have both gone through but Jill Sorenson makes their incidental road trip through Mexico memorable in ways I hadn’t expected. Maria's resilience is as remarkable as Ian's devotion to a woman he hadn't met in 4 years and I did get that thrill in wanting to know how their love would last beyond national borders. It’s an unusual pairing fraught with obstacles that Sorenson does well to lay out, and the yearning between them feels real with a push-pull dynamic that makes you think their happy-for-now ending is way deserved.
A side note that's completely irrelevant: a moustache is always a bad idea.
*ARC by netgalley
(always grateful, mind)
But with their history glossed over in the first few paragraphs and a variety of POVs coming into play soon after, I floundered for a period of time, trying to play catch up with the cast of characters and the nasty cartel business that had gotten everyone’s knickers in twists. It did get interesting though, despite my struggle with the initial pacing and structure and I caught on enough to want to know how Ian and Maria got on by the skin of their teeth.
Their relationship isn’t easy given what they have both gone through but Jill Sorenson makes their incidental road trip through Mexico memorable in ways I hadn’t expected. Maria's resilience is as remarkable as Ian's devotion to a woman he hadn't met in 4 years and I did get that thrill in wanting to know how their love would last beyond national borders. It’s an unusual pairing fraught with obstacles that Sorenson does well to lay out, and the yearning between them feels real with a push-pull dynamic that makes you think their happy-for-now ending is way deserved.
A side note that's completely irrelevant: a moustache is always a bad idea.
*ARC by netgalley
(always grateful, mind)
February 6, 2017
The only reason I first got curious about Off the Rails was because of the cover. The gorgeous cover lead me to reading the summary which sounded interesting enough. Jill Sorenson is not an author I've read before but I'm always up for discovering new authors so I thought I'd give it a try. I'm just going to come out and say this, I was disappointed with Off the Rails. It was a very average read and I struggled a bit to actually finish it.
Okay so let's start with our hero, Ian. Ian is a border patrol agent and a few years ago he had rescued a young girl. They shared a connection and he hasn't been able to forget her even after years. But they both know that anything solid between them is impossible. Now I usually do really like second chance romances but this one lacked something. Ian was a nice guy. He wanted to secure his job and career while trying not to get distracted.
Our heroine is Maria. Maria was a sweet girl. She was determined to make the best out of her circumstances. She wanted to take care of he family and she was willing to do anything for it. Her attraction towards Ian was easy to see and her feelings for him were genuine.
Off the Rails is more of a romantic suspense book, so while there was romance it definitely took a back seat at times. I didn't mind that. The whole book follows a third person point of view. Ian is trying to rescue and find the daughter of a drug lord while Maria is trying to save her brother. What I did get bored with was during the sub plot. It didn't matter to me and I wanted to get back to Ian and Maria's point of view. There was definitely some action and loads of danger thrown in parts.
I didn't find Jill Sorenson's writing as engaging. It didn't keep me hooked to the book till the end. I wasn't as invested in Maria and Ian's story as I wanted to be. Some parts I liked and some parts I just wanted to get over with. Overall Off the Rails was a very average read for me and I'm not sure if I will be picking up anything else by this author anytime soon.
*Note: A copy of this book was provided by the author/publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. We thank them.
Find more of my reviews at The Readdicts- http://thereaddicts.blogspot.in/
Okay so let's start with our hero, Ian. Ian is a border patrol agent and a few years ago he had rescued a young girl. They shared a connection and he hasn't been able to forget her even after years. But they both know that anything solid between them is impossible. Now I usually do really like second chance romances but this one lacked something. Ian was a nice guy. He wanted to secure his job and career while trying not to get distracted.
Our heroine is Maria. Maria was a sweet girl. She was determined to make the best out of her circumstances. She wanted to take care of he family and she was willing to do anything for it. Her attraction towards Ian was easy to see and her feelings for him were genuine.
Off the Rails is more of a romantic suspense book, so while there was romance it definitely took a back seat at times. I didn't mind that. The whole book follows a third person point of view. Ian is trying to rescue and find the daughter of a drug lord while Maria is trying to save her brother. What I did get bored with was during the sub plot. It didn't matter to me and I wanted to get back to Ian and Maria's point of view. There was definitely some action and loads of danger thrown in parts.
I didn't find Jill Sorenson's writing as engaging. It didn't keep me hooked to the book till the end. I wasn't as invested in Maria and Ian's story as I wanted to be. Some parts I liked and some parts I just wanted to get over with. Overall Off the Rails was a very average read for me and I'm not sure if I will be picking up anything else by this author anytime soon.
*Note: A copy of this book was provided by the author/publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. We thank them.
Find more of my reviews at The Readdicts- http://thereaddicts.blogspot.in/
December 13, 2016
Original review can be found at http://kristineandterri.blogspot.ca/2...
** I received an advanced readers copy from Loveswept via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!**
I was completely confused by Off the Rails. The entire time that I was reading it I felt like I was missing something because there were way too many holes in the story and it discussed Ian and Maria's past like I should already know it. I went as far as double checking that it wasn't part of a series because it certainly read like it was. It is not marketed as part of a series but I did find out that it is a spin off or continuation of Caught In the Act. This explained a lot!
My biggest issue with this book besides the holes and confusion was that I could not get into the relationship between Ian and Maria. It was weak at best and lacked the chemistry that I desire in my romance novels. They seemed to lack maturity and it got annoying a lot. This was particularly the case with Maria. Even when it heated up the connection between them seemed out of place and awkward.
I think my thoughts might have been more positive if I had read Caught In the Act but because I haven't I just felt disconnected from the characters and the plot. In my opinion, this book did not read well as a stand alone. Although I can't speak for the other book I do feel that maybe it would have given me the clarity that was missing, making Off the Rails more enjoyable. I have read and enjoyed other books by this author but this one wasn't for me.
** I received an advanced readers copy from Loveswept via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!**
I was completely confused by Off the Rails. The entire time that I was reading it I felt like I was missing something because there were way too many holes in the story and it discussed Ian and Maria's past like I should already know it. I went as far as double checking that it wasn't part of a series because it certainly read like it was. It is not marketed as part of a series but I did find out that it is a spin off or continuation of Caught In the Act. This explained a lot!
My biggest issue with this book besides the holes and confusion was that I could not get into the relationship between Ian and Maria. It was weak at best and lacked the chemistry that I desire in my romance novels. They seemed to lack maturity and it got annoying a lot. This was particularly the case with Maria. Even when it heated up the connection between them seemed out of place and awkward.
I think my thoughts might have been more positive if I had read Caught In the Act but because I haven't I just felt disconnected from the characters and the plot. In my opinion, this book did not read well as a stand alone. Although I can't speak for the other book I do feel that maybe it would have given me the clarity that was missing, making Off the Rails more enjoyable. I have read and enjoyed other books by this author but this one wasn't for me.
December 31, 2016
Off the Rails is the second book in the Border Patrol Series by Jill Sorenson, and in my opinion you really should read the first book Caught in the Act that way you have the backstory of how Ian and Maria met and what happened while they were together before the beginning of this book....which I unfortunately hadn't. That being said I was able to follow along without a problem but I think having the back story would have given me more as far as the characters relationship and the chemistry between them.
Most of this book took place while riding on "La Bestia" which is a freight train that travels along the coast of Mexico from its southernmost border with Guatemala north to the United States boarder. It was risky and things don't go as easy as either one had hoped it would.
Maria had entered the US illegally and somehow got tangled up with the Mexican cartel which is how Ian get re-connected with her. Ian is an undercover ICE agent on the trail of a criminal that Maria has ties with and he's hoping that she will lead him to the man in question. Though neither of them can deny the connection they once had and the chemistry that hasn't faltered in the four years they have been apart, he is there to do a job and that is his main focus.
I liked the chemistry between Maria and Ian and again I think I would have felt more connected to them if I had read the first book, that being said I do plan on going back and reading Caught in the Act at some point in the not to distant future.
***I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book that I requested from Random House Publishing Group - Loveswept through Netgalley*** https://www.netgalley.com/
December 15, 2016
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads, so here is my review.
3.5 Stars
First I have to say I enjoyed the story-line but I was not drawn into it to keep me on the edge of my seat. But I found out after I finished it that it was continued from another book. Which wasn't really a problem but is was a little off putting at not having the back story for Ian and Maria.
Ian Foster has worked for Border Patrol, DEA and is now working with ICE and is going undercover looking for an escaped drug dealer who fled back to Mexico. When he gets to Mexico, he has to find Maria, the young woman he fell in love with and wants a life with her after he finishes this case.
Maria Santos has had hard times, being born in Mexico into poverty and not much in the way of making money to help her family. She leaves to go to the US for a better life and gets caught before she gets there. When she is raped and left for dead, Ian is the person who finds her and gets her help. But she is sent back to Mexico after she is healed.
While Ian and Maria cross Mexico looking for the drug dealer, they grow closer and their feelings are undeniable. Will they survive the mission and make a life for each other? Or will the Mexican police, which happen to be part of the drug cartel, take them out beforehand? Will they find the drug dealer before the police kill him?
I look forward to reading more from Jill Sorenson. And I will go back and read Caught in the Act to see how things started with Ian and Maria.
3.5 Stars
First I have to say I enjoyed the story-line but I was not drawn into it to keep me on the edge of my seat. But I found out after I finished it that it was continued from another book. Which wasn't really a problem but is was a little off putting at not having the back story for Ian and Maria.
Ian Foster has worked for Border Patrol, DEA and is now working with ICE and is going undercover looking for an escaped drug dealer who fled back to Mexico. When he gets to Mexico, he has to find Maria, the young woman he fell in love with and wants a life with her after he finishes this case.
Maria Santos has had hard times, being born in Mexico into poverty and not much in the way of making money to help her family. She leaves to go to the US for a better life and gets caught before she gets there. When she is raped and left for dead, Ian is the person who finds her and gets her help. But she is sent back to Mexico after she is healed.
While Ian and Maria cross Mexico looking for the drug dealer, they grow closer and their feelings are undeniable. Will they survive the mission and make a life for each other? Or will the Mexican police, which happen to be part of the drug cartel, take them out beforehand? Will they find the drug dealer before the police kill him?
I look forward to reading more from Jill Sorenson. And I will go back and read Caught in the Act to see how things started with Ian and Maria.
December 10, 2016
This is the second book in this "series" if there are to be more books. The first book was Caught in the Act and I have not read that book. However, this book was a good standalone. I figured that there had been another book with some of the characters as they were mentioned as if the reader was supposed to know who they were, but I had no problems with reading this book. I thought it was very well done in terms of Mexican life and the cartels and how people live with trying to get to the United States. The romance was believable and I enjoyed the storyline. I have not read many of Jill Sorensen's books before but enjoy her writing. Overall, this was an enjoyable way to spend an afternoon. Thanks to Netgalley and the Publisher for allowing me to read this book for an honest review.
October 23, 2016
I really liked Ian the man knew how to lay things out for his woman, “for the record, I don’t want you to meet anyone else. I don’t want any other man to touch you, ever again . You’re mine, Maria. And if I can’t have you, I want you to be unsatisfied forever.” I liked this book, Ian was a good man.
March 13, 2017
This one packed a powerful punch.
very different from other stories that i have read.
suspense, drama, opposites, angst, chemistry and more.
the world that the author created was easy to see and gave you insight into their personal lives.
Naturally there is going to danger that ties in both books and gives us an explosive ending.
very different from other stories that i have read.
suspense, drama, opposites, angst, chemistry and more.
the world that the author created was easy to see and gave you insight into their personal lives.
Naturally there is going to danger that ties in both books and gives us an explosive ending.
November 23, 2016
The plot is everything I want in a book. However it fell flat from the beginning. I felt I started reading this book in the middle of it instead of the beginning. I couldn't connect with either characters let alone find the chemistry between them. Sorry I didn't like this one.
May 5, 2017
Ian Foster is working at trying to get a new job with a different federal law enforcement agency. Four years ago he was a border patrol agent and he came in contact with Maria who at 18 was left in the desert to die only to be found by him and rescued. During their time together he fell in love with her but when he asked her to marry him she said no and went back to Mexico. Now four years later he is working a case for ICE (homeland security) meeting an informant in Texas only what was supposed to be information given to him turns into a shot out, him being shot, the informant killed and with all of the people around the one person who help him to safety is Maria and she is gone from him again. She has gone home to Mexico City but then finds out that her younger brother is going to try to go to the U.S. She leave to try to find him. Meanwhile Ian given permission to follow the leads takes him back into Mexico were you guessed it the two of them meet up again looking for two different people. There is also another story going on with a veterinarian who is kidnap and ordered to help some people who have been shot. There is a lot going on in this story. Drug cartel, kidnapping, love story, and one of the drug cartel men looking for his daughter. The author does get everything worked out in the end there just was at times a little too much. This was an OK story. I got this book from Netgalley.com I gave it 3 stars. Follow us at Ian Foster is working at trying to get a new job with a different federal law enforcement agency. Four years ago he was a border patrol agent and he came in contact with Maria who at 18 was left in the desert to die only to be found by him and rescued. During their time together he fell in love with her but when he asked her to marry him she said no and went back to Mexico. Now four years later he is working a case for ICE (homeland security) meeting an informant in Texas only what was supposed to be information given to him turns into a shot out, him being shot, the informant killed and with all of the people around the one person who help him to safety is Maria and she is gone from him again. She has gone home to Mexico City but then finds out that her younger brother is going to try to go to the U.S. She leave to try to find him. Meanwhile Ian given permission to follow the leads takes him back into Mexico were you guessed it the two of them meet up again looking for two different people. There is also another story going on with a veterinarian who is kidnap and ordered to help some people who have been shot. There is a lot going on in this story. Drug cartel, kidnapping, love story, and one of the drug cartel men looking for his daughter. The author does get everything worked out in the end there just was at times a little too much. This was an OK story. I got this book from Netgalley.com I gave it 3 stars. Follow us at Ian Foster is working at trying to get a new job with a different federal law enforcement agency. Four years ago he was a border patrol agent and he came in contact with Maria who at 18 was left in the desert to die only to be found by him and rescued. During their time together he fell in love with her but when he asked her to marry him she said no and went back to Mexico. Now four years later he is working a case for ICE (homeland security) meeting an informant in Texas only what was supposed to be information given to him turns into a shot out, him being shot, the informant killed and with all of the people around the one person who help him to safety is Maria and she is gone from him again. She has gone home to Mexico City but then finds out that her younger brother is going to try to go to the U.S. She leave to try to find him. Meanwhile Ian given permission to follow the leads takes him back into Mexico were you guessed it the two of them meet up again looking for two different people. There is also another story going on with a veterinarian who is kidnap and ordered to help some people who have been shot. There is a lot going on in this story. Drug cartel, kidnapping, love story, and one of the drug cartel men looking for his daughter. The author does get everything worked out in the end there just was at times a little too much. This was an OK story. I got this book from Netgalley.com I gave it 3 stars. Follow us at www.1rad-readerreviews.com
May 10, 2017
When I read this book, I was initially hesitant to read this book due to the mixed ratings. I have heard some good and some mixed review. Unfortunately, my liking of this book was about average.
One of the things Sorenson does a great job in this book is accurately portraying the Mexican life. She has done her research because the jumping off trains, drug gangs, and raping of woman is portrayed accurately. It was nice that the fighting and jumping of trains is realistic. Another thing Sorenson accurately portrays is the life of a border patrol. She shows the struggles and morals a Border Patrol faces. Through her writing, she demonstrates Ian's struggles of not falling in love with Maria, although it is forbidden.
I also like the tension is the book. The romantic tension is great. There is a ton of angst and the chemistry between Maria and Ian is very prevalent. Even through the escaping and fighting scenes, Sorenesen does a really good job portraying the dependence and relationship between the two main characters.
As much there were some parts of the book that were nice, there were major problems with the plot and characters. The plot is very generic and does not have much buildup and climax. In the beginning, we meet a border patrol who is already in love with an illegal immigrant and due to some criminal's actions, Maria is a close link. The plot seems promising. However, it goes down from there. We get some nice action scenes and an almost good build up, but the book abruptly ends. It's like a build up and then ending. There is no logic. I was almost going not read the ending due to this.
Another issue I had with the book is that they were pretty average. I didn't see any redeeming qualities in Maria and Ian. Ian was a great person, but by no means added much to the plot line. The plot line was world driven, another issue, and Ian just acted like a hero and baby at times. I felt he was just a border patrol to be portrayed as something sexy. Maria wasn't very redeeming too. She wasn't developed properly. I felt that she was just there to be there. She didn't really do much to the book.
Overall, this was an average read. I did like the idea behind the book and accurate portrayal, but the plot line and characters had major issues and was not developed enough. Therefore, I am giving this book three stars.
One of the things Sorenson does a great job in this book is accurately portraying the Mexican life. She has done her research because the jumping off trains, drug gangs, and raping of woman is portrayed accurately. It was nice that the fighting and jumping of trains is realistic. Another thing Sorenson accurately portrays is the life of a border patrol. She shows the struggles and morals a Border Patrol faces. Through her writing, she demonstrates Ian's struggles of not falling in love with Maria, although it is forbidden.
I also like the tension is the book. The romantic tension is great. There is a ton of angst and the chemistry between Maria and Ian is very prevalent. Even through the escaping and fighting scenes, Sorenesen does a really good job portraying the dependence and relationship between the two main characters.
As much there were some parts of the book that were nice, there were major problems with the plot and characters. The plot is very generic and does not have much buildup and climax. In the beginning, we meet a border patrol who is already in love with an illegal immigrant and due to some criminal's actions, Maria is a close link. The plot seems promising. However, it goes down from there. We get some nice action scenes and an almost good build up, but the book abruptly ends. It's like a build up and then ending. There is no logic. I was almost going not read the ending due to this.
Another issue I had with the book is that they were pretty average. I didn't see any redeeming qualities in Maria and Ian. Ian was a great person, but by no means added much to the plot line. The plot line was world driven, another issue, and Ian just acted like a hero and baby at times. I felt he was just a border patrol to be portrayed as something sexy. Maria wasn't very redeeming too. She wasn't developed properly. I felt that she was just there to be there. She didn't really do much to the book.
Overall, this was an average read. I did like the idea behind the book and accurate portrayal, but the plot line and characters had major issues and was not developed enough. Therefore, I am giving this book three stars.
October 24, 2016
**I received a copy of Off the Rails via Net Galley in exchange for a voluntary and honest review**
Off the Rails by Jill Sorenson is part suspense and romance but there was at times three different story lines and it made it confusing. It is a continuation of the story line in Caught in the Act which I haven't read yet, so I'd recommend reading that book first.
Ian Foster had to resign from the Border Control/Homeland Security as he stepped over the line when it came to a young girl, Maria, who had been assaulted by the several men. They spent one night together and they shouldn't have. He's now an uncover ICE agent on the trail of a drug cartel kingpin that has a connection to Maria. She has been asked to watch over Sarai Tomas, the daughter of Armando Villarreal who works for one of the most dangerous drug cartel's in Mexico.
So Maria and Ian go on a wild train ride through Mexico, Ian who has been shot ends up with a infection. There is some really intense action segments with all of the character at different points of the book but the end game is to get Villarreal before the Cartel gets him.
Maria Santos having been sent back to Mexico has been watching over Sarai giving her messages from her father. But she can't forget Ian Foster who saved her, little does she know that Ian will need her help finding Sarai's father. But can they keep their distance from each other? Will they find Sarai in time before the cartel does who knows that she'll lead him to her father.
Caitlyn Weiss who is the vet whom Armando kidnapped after he was shot. They manage to get to the safe house but they are soon locked up. She's given bandages, antibiotics and morphine to care for Armando but they aren't as safe as they thought they were. He escapes and another person is brought in for her to care for, but he's injured beyond what she has cared for in the animals at her clinic.
The story lines of the six different characters do get confusing at times and it feels like there may be another book added to the series at the end of the book. However, Maria and Ian will get their happy ever after it just takes a roundabout way to get there. I would highly recommend reading the first book prior to this one
Off the Rails by Jill Sorenson is part suspense and romance but there was at times three different story lines and it made it confusing. It is a continuation of the story line in Caught in the Act which I haven't read yet, so I'd recommend reading that book first.
Ian Foster had to resign from the Border Control/Homeland Security as he stepped over the line when it came to a young girl, Maria, who had been assaulted by the several men. They spent one night together and they shouldn't have. He's now an uncover ICE agent on the trail of a drug cartel kingpin that has a connection to Maria. She has been asked to watch over Sarai Tomas, the daughter of Armando Villarreal who works for one of the most dangerous drug cartel's in Mexico.
So Maria and Ian go on a wild train ride through Mexico, Ian who has been shot ends up with a infection. There is some really intense action segments with all of the character at different points of the book but the end game is to get Villarreal before the Cartel gets him.
Maria Santos having been sent back to Mexico has been watching over Sarai giving her messages from her father. But she can't forget Ian Foster who saved her, little does she know that Ian will need her help finding Sarai's father. But can they keep their distance from each other? Will they find Sarai in time before the cartel does who knows that she'll lead him to her father.
Caitlyn Weiss who is the vet whom Armando kidnapped after he was shot. They manage to get to the safe house but they are soon locked up. She's given bandages, antibiotics and morphine to care for Armando but they aren't as safe as they thought they were. He escapes and another person is brought in for her to care for, but he's injured beyond what she has cared for in the animals at her clinic.
The story lines of the six different characters do get confusing at times and it feels like there may be another book added to the series at the end of the book. However, Maria and Ian will get their happy ever after it just takes a roundabout way to get there. I would highly recommend reading the first book prior to this one
December 11, 2016
Off the Rails by Jill Sorenson was a surprising read in many ways. I am new to Ms. Sorenson, but right from the beginning, it was obvious that I was missing some vital information and by the end, while much had fallen into place, I was positive that there was so much more that I didn't know. Don't get me wrong - it was well written, but Ian & Maria's story did not start with this story. Ian rescued Maria 4 years earlier when he was a DEA agent and has carried a lust for her ever since; in fact he's been celibate for all that time. He's no longer in the DEA but is given a chance at a new position if he can carry out the task he's been set. Maria crosses his path as a lead in his case and the two travel together in Mexico, facing armed robbers, cartel members, crooked police, in trying to track down their targets. There is plenty of action and I definitely enjoyed the prose, in describing the abject poverty of Mexico and why so many people risk their lives to cross the border into the USA.
Apparently there is a book that features Ian & Marie written some years earlier by Jill Sorenson and I would have gladly read it as a precursor to this novel. However, there was nothing to indicate that Off the Rails was the rest of the story and not a stand alone book. The earlier book, Caught in the Act was published in 2012 and I suppose that the author felt that the story was strong enough to stand on its own. This couple were not the main characters in that earlier book and having finished the story of Ian and Maria I probably won't go looking for it. I won't hesitate to read other books by Ms Sorenson as she writes tells an interesting and realistic story. If you have read Caught in the Act, then Off the Rails will finish off some loose threads.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review
Review for Once Upon an Alpha.
Apparently there is a book that features Ian & Marie written some years earlier by Jill Sorenson and I would have gladly read it as a precursor to this novel. However, there was nothing to indicate that Off the Rails was the rest of the story and not a stand alone book. The earlier book, Caught in the Act was published in 2012 and I suppose that the author felt that the story was strong enough to stand on its own. This couple were not the main characters in that earlier book and having finished the story of Ian and Maria I probably won't go looking for it. I won't hesitate to read other books by Ms Sorenson as she writes tells an interesting and realistic story. If you have read Caught in the Act, then Off the Rails will finish off some loose threads.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review
Review for Once Upon an Alpha.
February 5, 2019
Ian Foster is working at trying to get a new job with a different federal law enforcement agency. Four years ago he was a border patrol agent and he came in contact with Maria who at 18 was left in the desert to die only to be found by him and rescued. During their time together he fell in love with her but when he asked her to marry him she said no and went back to Mexico. Now four years later he is working a case for ICE (homeland security) meeting an informant in Texas only what was supposed to be information given to him turns into a shot out, him being shot, the informant killed and with all of the people around the one person who helps him to safety is Maria and she is gone from him again. She has gone home to Mexico City but then finds out that her younger brother is going to try to go to the U.S. She leaves to try to find him. Meanwhile, Ian given permission to follow the leads takes him back into Mexico where you guessed it the two of them meet up again looking for two different people. There is also another story going on with a veterinarian who is kidnap and ordered to help some people who have been shot. There is a lot going on in this story. The drug cartel, kidnapping, love story, and one of the drug cartel men looking for his daughter. The author does get everything worked out in the end there just was at times a little too much. This was an OK story. I got this book from Netgalley.com I gave it 4 stars. Follow us at www.1rad-readerreviews.com
March 1, 2017
While there is a romance component to this book, to me it felt more like a suspense book. Ian and Maria meet prior to the book opening so it was a little hard to connect to them in the beginning. I did not know their story was touched on in the Caught in the Act book. If I had read that one, I might have had a different take on this story. I felt like I was missing the build up to their romance. Ian is working for ICE. They send him back to Mexico on an undercover assignment. Here he reconnects with Maria. He asks for her help in contacting the daughter of a drug dealer. When they find not only that she is missing but so is Maria’s brother they set out to find her. Much of the story centers on their search to find them. There are some great parts to this book and are a few steamy scenes. I was disappointed when I got to the end and realized it ended on a cliffhanger. That was frustrating. While I really like this author, not sure I am invested enough to read the next book. Maybe going back to the first book may help.
December 5, 2016
*****ARC provided by NetGalley, through publisher, for an honest review*****
This was an alright read for me. Seems that I was missing some information about Ian and Maria's story which stem from the previous book. It was well written, however I just could not get into the book. There was so much other stuff going on that I didn't really feel the connection. Ian lost his job as a DEA when his cover was blown, saving Maria and yet he sticks his neck out again as a temporary ICE agent, after being forewarned to walk a straight line? Like I said I guess I was missing the connection. The action kept me engaged in the end and I was able to finish the story. As I stated before the story was well written, I just felt Maria's character could be fleshed out a little more. Too much back and forth with her, for me. Maria and Ian's story end with a HFN.
This was an alright read for me. Seems that I was missing some information about Ian and Maria's story which stem from the previous book. It was well written, however I just could not get into the book. There was so much other stuff going on that I didn't really feel the connection. Ian lost his job as a DEA when his cover was blown, saving Maria and yet he sticks his neck out again as a temporary ICE agent, after being forewarned to walk a straight line? Like I said I guess I was missing the connection. The action kept me engaged in the end and I was able to finish the story. As I stated before the story was well written, I just felt Maria's character could be fleshed out a little more. Too much back and forth with her, for me. Maria and Ian's story end with a HFN.
December 9, 2016
It seems Ian can't stay out of trouble. One woman has cost him two jobs. He doesn't even know her that well. They aren't married. Due to unusual circumstances, they have reunited after four years. However, it isn't a happy reunion.
He is hunting her down. She isn't aware he's coming. When they get together all bets are off.
It's an intriguing read. I am more aware of illegal immigration and it's finer points than others. So I was very interested in seeing how this would play out. I really had fun reading it.
I mean who doesn't love being chased by cartels and crooked cops. Excuse me, Federales aren't all crooked. But...
Well you will just have to see won't you!
Book received in exchange for an honest review. Reviewed on behalf of Once Upon An Alpha
He is hunting her down. She isn't aware he's coming. When they get together all bets are off.
It's an intriguing read. I am more aware of illegal immigration and it's finer points than others. So I was very interested in seeing how this would play out. I really had fun reading it.
I mean who doesn't love being chased by cartels and crooked cops. Excuse me, Federales aren't all crooked. But...
Well you will just have to see won't you!
Book received in exchange for an honest review. Reviewed on behalf of Once Upon An Alpha
November 15, 2016
This book goes Off the Rails in more than one way. We get a ton of Mexico's more poor culture. Ian and Maria ride the train repeatedly just like the more unfortunate have to. Plus Ian refers to himself going Off the Rails in reference to his job.
I think that Ms. Sorenson did a fantastic job. It was so different, that it stands out from all other suspenseful romance books based in Mexico.
I think that Ms. Sorenson did a fantastic job. It was so different, that it stands out from all other suspenseful romance books based in Mexico.
March 13, 2017
3.5 Stars
I felt this book had the potential to be one of the best I've read this year, BUT sadly, it just didn't quite make it there for me. There were lots of holes in the plot, and I found myself confused...a lot. There were parts I extremely enjoyed, but overall, it's just okay for me.
Angela - Alphas Do It Better Book Blog
I felt this book had the potential to be one of the best I've read this year, BUT sadly, it just didn't quite make it there for me. There were lots of holes in the plot, and I found myself confused...a lot. There were parts I extremely enjoyed, but overall, it's just okay for me.
Angela - Alphas Do It Better Book Blog
September 29, 2016
ARC
This was tough for me. I am not an "action adventure" book reader. I read romances because the setting is usually simple with a couple scenes of intrigue. This one was like action adventure with romance undertones. I considered stopping, but honestly the writing was too good to stop. I had to know what happened. I loved the story and Ian especially, but Maria was a little innocent for my taste. This book took me a couple sittings, but still glad i kept with it. Will I be looking for more action books? NO, but am I sorry I read this one, Hell No. It was great!
This was tough for me. I am not an "action adventure" book reader. I read romances because the setting is usually simple with a couple scenes of intrigue. This one was like action adventure with romance undertones. I considered stopping, but honestly the writing was too good to stop. I had to know what happened. I loved the story and Ian especially, but Maria was a little innocent for my taste. This book took me a couple sittings, but still glad i kept with it. Will I be looking for more action books? NO, but am I sorry I read this one, Hell No. It was great!
January 12, 2017
Ian is recovering from an injury sustained while breaking his cover to help someone, leading to his resigning from the DEA.
He's now back with Homeland Security, getting the details for his upcoming short-term (probationary) assignment. It's a case that involves Maria, the woman he rescued four years ago. The same woman he reconnected with a week ago, which eventually led to his injury and all that it entailed. The woman he just spent the night with.
Maria has waited four long years to return home and see her Mom and siblings again. Four years since she was beaten, assaulted, and left to die. Four years since she first met Ian, the man she never forgot. She just has to complete one last task and she's free. Though she wishes for a true relationship with Ian, it breaks her heart to know they'll never get the chance.
Shortly after Maria returns home, she's surprised, and excited, to see Ian, though she's disappointed to learn he's there on orders. Ian is searching for Sarai, the daughter of the man his agency is trying to capture, and Maria knows where she is. As Maria ensures she accompanies Ian during his search, the bond between them only grows stronger, yet both know a future together is almost impossible.
As their journey becomes dangerous, the two rely on each other and their desire for one another can't be denied. However, both seem resigned to the fact that it's only temporary, regardless of their hopes for more.
Can Ian keep Maria safe? Will they find Sarai? Or her father? Will Ian be cleared in the investigation, therefore returning to his job? How can he work for immigration, yet have a life with Maria? What happens when Ian and Maria accept how badly they want to stay together, yet believe it can't happen? Can their love survive? Will they get a HEA?
One-click now and follow along as two people fall in love despite knowing they may have to go their separate ways. Also, something I wasn't aware of prior to reading this book, it seems as if Ian and Maria's story began in a previous story as secondary characters.
On a personal note, while I like the premise of this story and feel the writer is talented, for some reason I wasn't able to go become fully engaged in the story. There were certain things I liked, such as the plot, the danger, the romance, and the fact that Ian hadn't been with anyone since meeting Maria four years ago. Thank you for that. However, I couldn't help but feel a little disconnected from it. As I said the author is talented so my feelings in no way detract from that, it's just purely a preference on my part. Also, something I could've done without were the references to Ian's sexual history, as in statements here and there that weren't necessary, and a little tidbit about said past and how it involves someone that is still in his life, someone that Maria will eventually meet. I don't like things that as I feel it lessens my view and attachment of the main characters as a couple. But please, give this story a try and see for yourself.
**I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.**
He's now back with Homeland Security, getting the details for his upcoming short-term (probationary) assignment. It's a case that involves Maria, the woman he rescued four years ago. The same woman he reconnected with a week ago, which eventually led to his injury and all that it entailed. The woman he just spent the night with.
Maria has waited four long years to return home and see her Mom and siblings again. Four years since she was beaten, assaulted, and left to die. Four years since she first met Ian, the man she never forgot. She just has to complete one last task and she's free. Though she wishes for a true relationship with Ian, it breaks her heart to know they'll never get the chance.
Shortly after Maria returns home, she's surprised, and excited, to see Ian, though she's disappointed to learn he's there on orders. Ian is searching for Sarai, the daughter of the man his agency is trying to capture, and Maria knows where she is. As Maria ensures she accompanies Ian during his search, the bond between them only grows stronger, yet both know a future together is almost impossible.
As their journey becomes dangerous, the two rely on each other and their desire for one another can't be denied. However, both seem resigned to the fact that it's only temporary, regardless of their hopes for more.
Can Ian keep Maria safe? Will they find Sarai? Or her father? Will Ian be cleared in the investigation, therefore returning to his job? How can he work for immigration, yet have a life with Maria? What happens when Ian and Maria accept how badly they want to stay together, yet believe it can't happen? Can their love survive? Will they get a HEA?
One-click now and follow along as two people fall in love despite knowing they may have to go their separate ways. Also, something I wasn't aware of prior to reading this book, it seems as if Ian and Maria's story began in a previous story as secondary characters.
On a personal note, while I like the premise of this story and feel the writer is talented, for some reason I wasn't able to go become fully engaged in the story. There were certain things I liked, such as the plot, the danger, the romance, and the fact that Ian hadn't been with anyone since meeting Maria four years ago. Thank you for that. However, I couldn't help but feel a little disconnected from it. As I said the author is talented so my feelings in no way detract from that, it's just purely a preference on my part. Also, something I could've done without were the references to Ian's sexual history, as in statements here and there that weren't necessary, and a little tidbit about said past and how it involves someone that is still in his life, someone that Maria will eventually meet. I don't like things that as I feel it lessens my view and attachment of the main characters as a couple. But please, give this story a try and see for yourself.
**I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.**
November 6, 2016
**I received and ARC of this book from Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.**
Let me start out by saying, going into this book, I was unaware the characters were offshoots from another book. Reading the book(s) that came before this one may have helped a bit, but most of my problems with this book have little to do with the back story or holes in the story. And, to be fair to me, it is in no way touted as part of a series or a spin-off of another book. That leads me to believe the author felt it was strong enough to stand on its own.
The overall vibe Ian and Maria, the hero and heroine, give off is very anti-law enforcement and that was one of the things that bothered me. Ian is a federal agent, for goodness sake! Don’t get me wrong, I know there are bad cops, agents, and military men and women out there. So maybe a reading of the other book would have helped me to see where Ian was coming from. But it wasn’t just mistrust; I know that would be natural for Maria and her family. At times it’s downright disdain.
Maria is quite young and her experience with men is rough, but I thought she was too childlike in other ways. After what she has been through in her life and the things she did to survive, I wouldn’t think she’d seem so young anymore. She would seem innocent one minute and then be throwing a tantrum the next. That’s not fiery and strong, that is immature and petulant. And sometimes I felt Ian wasn’t much better although I understood his motivation much more clearly. Really, the issue was that these characters didn’t seem fully fleshed out to me. There seems to be a lot of telling and not enough showing. Oddly enough a side character, who is important but by no means a major player, named Caitlyn was far more interesting to me that the main characters.
Something that I did like was Maria has a little sister with William’s Syndrome. I have a dear friend whose son has William’s Syndrome and it seems to be such a little know disease. Anything to get the word out and get more funding for research is fine by me. I wish there would have been more than a quick mention, but I’m still hoping that piqued some interest where maybe a reader will look into it and be inspired to help.
It wasn’t until more than 75% into the book that I actually got invested and cared to keep reading. That’s far too much of a book to have to skim and force yourself to pick back up. But because the action was great in that last portion of the book I’m notching my rating up by a star.
I don’t feel I can totally give up on this author because there were good things in the book, but I’ll be sure the next time I try out one of Jill Sorenson’s stories it will be a true standalone of the first in a series so I won’t wonder if my lack of enthusiasm has to do with some missing element.
Let me start out by saying, going into this book, I was unaware the characters were offshoots from another book. Reading the book(s) that came before this one may have helped a bit, but most of my problems with this book have little to do with the back story or holes in the story. And, to be fair to me, it is in no way touted as part of a series or a spin-off of another book. That leads me to believe the author felt it was strong enough to stand on its own.
The overall vibe Ian and Maria, the hero and heroine, give off is very anti-law enforcement and that was one of the things that bothered me. Ian is a federal agent, for goodness sake! Don’t get me wrong, I know there are bad cops, agents, and military men and women out there. So maybe a reading of the other book would have helped me to see where Ian was coming from. But it wasn’t just mistrust; I know that would be natural for Maria and her family. At times it’s downright disdain.
Maria is quite young and her experience with men is rough, but I thought she was too childlike in other ways. After what she has been through in her life and the things she did to survive, I wouldn’t think she’d seem so young anymore. She would seem innocent one minute and then be throwing a tantrum the next. That’s not fiery and strong, that is immature and petulant. And sometimes I felt Ian wasn’t much better although I understood his motivation much more clearly. Really, the issue was that these characters didn’t seem fully fleshed out to me. There seems to be a lot of telling and not enough showing. Oddly enough a side character, who is important but by no means a major player, named Caitlyn was far more interesting to me that the main characters.
Something that I did like was Maria has a little sister with William’s Syndrome. I have a dear friend whose son has William’s Syndrome and it seems to be such a little know disease. Anything to get the word out and get more funding for research is fine by me. I wish there would have been more than a quick mention, but I’m still hoping that piqued some interest where maybe a reader will look into it and be inspired to help.
It wasn’t until more than 75% into the book that I actually got invested and cared to keep reading. That’s far too much of a book to have to skim and force yourself to pick back up. But because the action was great in that last portion of the book I’m notching my rating up by a star.
I don’t feel I can totally give up on this author because there were good things in the book, but I’ll be sure the next time I try out one of Jill Sorenson’s stories it will be a true standalone of the first in a series so I won’t wonder if my lack of enthusiasm has to do with some missing element.
December 13, 2016
I really wanted to love this one, from first setting eyes on it, the blurb sounded interesting and the cover did it's job of grabbing your attention. In the end it was just okay. After the initial excitement faded, the story never quiet lived up to my expectations. Main issue, the author's writing style made it hard for me to warm up the the characters. It felt dragged out in parts and the characters flopped between being these sensitive caring people to blunt (sometimes crude) and brash people. It was jarring to think you have a grip on who the characters really are only to read them acting completely parallel to what you were expecting.
Romance wise this one also fell short for me. Granted I've been waiting a long time to read this one so I might have blown it up in my mind, but with all the different story arcs (three total) going on simultaneously in Off the Rails, the love story between Jake and Maria felt like it took a backseat to all the other drama. It wasn't so much a story of two people falling in love, as two people already in love but in denial. It didn't really help that Jake doubted, denied or downplayed his feelings towards Maria for a huge chunk of the story. I don't mind a bit of push and pull between the MCs but I also want to see the MCs as a couple for a least part of the story. And nothing kills the warm fuzzy romance feels than an MC who doesn't fight for his love.
Just an FYI, if you haven't read the last book in the series, you might be a tad bit lost starting Off the Rails. There are events that are mentioned but not 100% explained in OtR that make the story almost feel incomplete. Jake and Maria first met four years ago under pretty messed up circumstances They haven't seen each other since. In OtR the story picks up right after the previous book so it felt like you were playing catch up because the action starts right off the bat and only the bare minimal recap was given regarding the events that happened in the previous book.
Safety: H is in his early to mid-30s, h is 22.
Triggers: rape, abuse, violence and murder
Separation: yes, four years. But both have been celibate since first meeting.
No OM/OW drama or cheating
*** ARC provided for an honest review ***
Romance wise this one also fell short for me. Granted I've been waiting a long time to read this one so I might have blown it up in my mind, but with all the different story arcs (three total) going on simultaneously in Off the Rails, the love story between Jake and Maria felt like it took a backseat to all the other drama. It wasn't so much a story of two people falling in love, as two people already in love but in denial. It didn't really help that Jake doubted, denied or downplayed his feelings towards Maria for a huge chunk of the story. I don't mind a bit of push and pull between the MCs but I also want to see the MCs as a couple for a least part of the story. And nothing kills the warm fuzzy romance feels than an MC who doesn't fight for his love.
Just an FYI, if you haven't read the last book in the series, you might be a tad bit lost starting Off the Rails. There are events that are mentioned but not 100% explained in OtR that make the story almost feel incomplete. Jake and Maria first met four years ago under pretty messed up circumstances They haven't seen each other since. In OtR the story picks up right after the previous book so it felt like you were playing catch up because the action starts right off the bat and only the bare minimal recap was given regarding the events that happened in the previous book.
Safety: H is in his early to mid-30s, h is 22.
Triggers: rape, abuse, violence and murder
Separation: yes, four years. But both have been celibate since first meeting.
No OM/OW drama or cheating
*** ARC provided for an honest review ***
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