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First Wives #3
Chasing Shadows
An Amazon Charts and Wall Street Journal bestseller.
Falling in love can come with the most unexpected risks in this First Wives novel from New York Times bestselling author Catherine Bybee.
Avery Grant doesn’t date. Her first marriage was a mutually beneficial contract that gave her the financial freedom she needed to step away from her controlling parents. Wealthy and single, the last thing she’s looking for is love sneaking in to mess up her life plans. And after a brutal attack, she’s determined to never be vulnerable again, even if the new man in her life helps her feel safe.
Mesmerized from the moment he sets his eyes on Avery, Liam is driven to learn everything about this tough, sexy, challenging woman. Breaking down her defenses won’t be easy, but Liam refuses to be pushed away. All he needs is a tiny crack in Avery’s armor to wiggle his way into her heart.
But when a terrifying lie about her attacker’s fate comes to light, Avery’s past returns to haunt her. Now she’s willing to put herself in danger to get the answers she needs. That means jeopardizing the best thing that’s ever happened to Liam.
Falling in love can come with the most unexpected risks in this First Wives novel from New York Times bestselling author Catherine Bybee.
Avery Grant doesn’t date. Her first marriage was a mutually beneficial contract that gave her the financial freedom she needed to step away from her controlling parents. Wealthy and single, the last thing she’s looking for is love sneaking in to mess up her life plans. And after a brutal attack, she’s determined to never be vulnerable again, even if the new man in her life helps her feel safe.
Mesmerized from the moment he sets his eyes on Avery, Liam is driven to learn everything about this tough, sexy, challenging woman. Breaking down her defenses won’t be easy, but Liam refuses to be pushed away. All he needs is a tiny crack in Avery’s armor to wiggle his way into her heart.
But when a terrifying lie about her attacker’s fate comes to light, Avery’s past returns to haunt her. Now she’s willing to put herself in danger to get the answers she needs. That means jeopardizing the best thing that’s ever happened to Liam.
316 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 13, 2018
4292 people are currently reading
1887 people want to read
About the author
Catherine Bybee
66 books20.9k followersNew York Times Bestselling Author
USA Today Bestselling Author
#1 Wall Street Journal Bestselling Author
Amazon #1 Bestselling Author
#1 IndieReader Bestselling Author
RONE Award Winner 2012
Not Quite Dating
Married by Monday
RONE award Winner 2013
Not Quite Enough
Winner of the More Than Magic Award for Paranormal romance 2011
Silent Vows
Finalist RT Award in Contemporary Romance
Fiance by Friday
New York Times bestselling author Catherine Bybee was raised in Washington State, but after graduating from high school, she moved to Southern California with hopes of becoming a movie star. After growing bored with waiting tables, she returned to school and became a registered nurse, spending most of her career in urban emergency rooms. She now writes full-time and has penned the International Bestselling Not Quite series, the MacCoinnich Time Travel series as well as the Internationally Bestselling Weekday Brides series.
Her books have been translated in over twenty languages.
USA Today Bestselling Author
#1 Wall Street Journal Bestselling Author
Amazon #1 Bestselling Author
#1 IndieReader Bestselling Author
RONE Award Winner 2012
Not Quite Dating
Married by Monday
RONE award Winner 2013
Not Quite Enough
Winner of the More Than Magic Award for Paranormal romance 2011
Silent Vows
Finalist RT Award in Contemporary Romance
Fiance by Friday
New York Times bestselling author Catherine Bybee was raised in Washington State, but after graduating from high school, she moved to Southern California with hopes of becoming a movie star. After growing bored with waiting tables, she returned to school and became a registered nurse, spending most of her career in urban emergency rooms. She now writes full-time and has penned the International Bestselling Not Quite series, the MacCoinnich Time Travel series as well as the Internationally Bestselling Weekday Brides series.
Her books have been translated in over twenty languages.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 428 reviews
December 1, 2018
Last year Avery barely survived a brutal attack and remembers next to nothing about it. Previously, Avery’s been outspoken and up for a good time, but the attack has changed her. Not that she’s now a shrinking violet, but she’s more thoughtful and serious. Also, she’s taken up krav maga determined to be able to defend herself should she ever be in a vulnerable situation again.
While defending herself from a handsy barfly, Avery captures the attention of Liam, a nice, normal building contractor, who soon starts taking krav maga to get close, and the sparks fly between them! Liam isn’t like the men Avery usually tangles with, satisfied with having a brief physical affair, and then moving on quickly. Liam wants more than a casual hookup, unnerving her, but he’s exactly what Avery didn’t realize she needed.
While Avery refuses to be treated or seen as a victim, the attack did leave a mark and its effects are coming to a head the closer she approaches the one-year anniversary. Details of the attack are coming to light as Avery starts regaining bits of her memory, shaking her up as she realizes things may not have been as the police originally thought.
When I was first introduced to Avery in the last book, I have to say she annoyed me quite a bit. She was very abrasive to Wade and Trina as they were starting their relationship and I felt like she was overbearing and intrusive. By the end though I realized that she was only trying to protect her friend from harm even if it was over the top. I felt awful for her when she got attacked!
When we first meet up with Avery here, it’s apparent that even though she hasn’t lost her fighting spirit, she’s struggling with feelings of anger, helplessness, and vulnerability. Normal feelings, I’d say considering what happened. I love that Liam was patient and kind even when he was in the dark about her situation, he could sense she needed understanding. I love how things wrapped up here, and how Avery was able to find peace and closure with a surprising turn of events.
A copy was kindly provided by Montlake Romance via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
While defending herself from a handsy barfly, Avery captures the attention of Liam, a nice, normal building contractor, who soon starts taking krav maga to get close, and the sparks fly between them! Liam isn’t like the men Avery usually tangles with, satisfied with having a brief physical affair, and then moving on quickly. Liam wants more than a casual hookup, unnerving her, but he’s exactly what Avery didn’t realize she needed.
While Avery refuses to be treated or seen as a victim, the attack did leave a mark and its effects are coming to a head the closer she approaches the one-year anniversary. Details of the attack are coming to light as Avery starts regaining bits of her memory, shaking her up as she realizes things may not have been as the police originally thought.
When I was first introduced to Avery in the last book, I have to say she annoyed me quite a bit. She was very abrasive to Wade and Trina as they were starting their relationship and I felt like she was overbearing and intrusive. By the end though I realized that she was only trying to protect her friend from harm even if it was over the top. I felt awful for her when she got attacked!
When we first meet up with Avery here, it’s apparent that even though she hasn’t lost her fighting spirit, she’s struggling with feelings of anger, helplessness, and vulnerability. Normal feelings, I’d say considering what happened. I love that Liam was patient and kind even when he was in the dark about her situation, he could sense she needed understanding. I love how things wrapped up here, and how Avery was able to find peace and closure with a surprising turn of events.
A copy was kindly provided by Montlake Romance via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
October 11, 2018
With each book from this series I think it’s the best one yet…so yeah, this is the best one yet. I never expected to love them as much as I do but dang, they just keep getting better and better until I can’t get enough of them.
We learned about Avery in the previous books and I was really curious to find out what her full story was going to look like. While you don’t necessarily have to read them, there is some background information to help you understand more fully what she has been through. She has definitely developed into one tough heroine and I loved how this author had her “chasing shadows” and the ultimate outcome of the chase. Color me surprised…and pleased.
I am a huge fan of Liam. He was just so perfect. He instinctively knew what would cause Avery to run and he avoided those things at all cost even as he slowly courted her and pulled her into his life. There was the potential for a lot of push and pull but that’s not what we got and again I was a happy reader.
I loved watching Liam and Avery together as they practiced krav maga together. The fact that even then Liam didn’t want to hurt her, while knowing practicing these skills was for her benefit, made me love him. I adored each time I got his point of view and he absolutely made my heart swoon. I rarely swoon.
I don’t think this is a fast paced story but I really don’t know. Once I started I couldn’t stop. I found myself devouring every word and then suddenly it was the end and I just wanted more. Also, I was so wrapped up in the relationship Liam was building with Avery that the steam factor didn’t really stick out to me. But I assure you, it was there. All the women from the first wives club is present as well as some new characters that helped to add depth to this hero and heroine as they interacted with each other. There was one little villainy type situation that had me scratching my head because it didn’t go anywhere. Either I completely misread it, the character may come up in a later book, or it is simply a loose end.
Overall, this is a wonderful book with some great romancing-the-heroine romance as well as a bit of mystery. I absolutely loved it and can’t wait for the next book in the series.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book provided by NetGalley and Montlake Romance. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Multi POV – mostly H/h
Safe
Triggers
We learned about Avery in the previous books and I was really curious to find out what her full story was going to look like. While you don’t necessarily have to read them, there is some background information to help you understand more fully what she has been through. She has definitely developed into one tough heroine and I loved how this author had her “chasing shadows” and the ultimate outcome of the chase. Color me surprised…and pleased.
I am a huge fan of Liam. He was just so perfect. He instinctively knew what would cause Avery to run and he avoided those things at all cost even as he slowly courted her and pulled her into his life. There was the potential for a lot of push and pull but that’s not what we got and again I was a happy reader.
I loved watching Liam and Avery together as they practiced krav maga together. The fact that even then Liam didn’t want to hurt her, while knowing practicing these skills was for her benefit, made me love him. I adored each time I got his point of view and he absolutely made my heart swoon. I rarely swoon.
I don’t think this is a fast paced story but I really don’t know. Once I started I couldn’t stop. I found myself devouring every word and then suddenly it was the end and I just wanted more. Also, I was so wrapped up in the relationship Liam was building with Avery that the steam factor didn’t really stick out to me. But I assure you, it was there. All the women from the first wives club is present as well as some new characters that helped to add depth to this hero and heroine as they interacted with each other. There was one little villainy type situation that had me scratching my head because it didn’t go anywhere. Either I completely misread it, the character may come up in a later book, or it is simply a loose end.
Overall, this is a wonderful book with some great romancing-the-heroine romance as well as a bit of mystery. I absolutely loved it and can’t wait for the next book in the series.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book provided by NetGalley and Montlake Romance. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Multi POV – mostly H/h
Safe
Triggers
November 9, 2018
Please bare with me because I really just want to swoon all over Liam. If I could dedicate this whole review to him, he is worthy BUT I won't cause I gotta say that Avery really surprised me. I should talk about her first cause she has been there from book 1 in the series and Liam is new. Besides, I like to save the best for last anyway.
Ok, so Avery was a character in the first two books that I just wasn't too sure about. She came off a bit shallow, maybe a bit spoiled, and a tad bit immature in the first two books. You do also get to see a very protective side to her when it came to her girls so she did have redeeming qualities. I just wasn't sure how much I was going to like her as a main character.
I really love when an author proves me wrong. Granted Avery experienced a trauma in book 2 which explains some of the shift in her character but she wasn't so different that you didn't recognize her. I liked her a lot. You learn a lot about her background and why she was flighty in the first place. It also explained why she had a hard time letting Liam in.
Now for my favorite part....Liam. Liam is going in to my top favorite heroes. I loved him from the moment he was introduced all the way to the end. I fell farther and farther for him every step of the way. What I loved about him the most is that he took one look at Avery and knew he needed to know her and he wasn't going to stop until he did. One of the best features in a man is knowing what he wants and going after it.
Liam learns right away that Avery is skittish and the way he handled her was perfection. I think I am actually going to be vague about his pursuit. It's something to experience for yourself. I was completely charmed and want to find more heroes just like him. This is one of those books where I could easily start back at the beginning and immediately re-read it. It's safe to say that I recommend it.
Ok, so Avery was a character in the first two books that I just wasn't too sure about. She came off a bit shallow, maybe a bit spoiled, and a tad bit immature in the first two books. You do also get to see a very protective side to her when it came to her girls so she did have redeeming qualities. I just wasn't sure how much I was going to like her as a main character.
I really love when an author proves me wrong. Granted Avery experienced a trauma in book 2 which explains some of the shift in her character but she wasn't so different that you didn't recognize her. I liked her a lot. You learn a lot about her background and why she was flighty in the first place. It also explained why she had a hard time letting Liam in.
Now for my favorite part....Liam. Liam is going in to my top favorite heroes. I loved him from the moment he was introduced all the way to the end. I fell farther and farther for him every step of the way. What I loved about him the most is that he took one look at Avery and knew he needed to know her and he wasn't going to stop until he did. One of the best features in a man is knowing what he wants and going after it.
Liam learns right away that Avery is skittish and the way he handled her was perfection. I think I am actually going to be vague about his pursuit. It's something to experience for yourself. I was completely charmed and want to find more heroes just like him. This is one of those books where I could easily start back at the beginning and immediately re-read it. It's safe to say that I recommend it.
November 12, 2018
So enjoyed this one!!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I had read another book that was similar in theory to the First Wives Club and I thought it was the same author and the continuation of that series. However, this is a different series than the one I was thinking of and it turned out to be a great choice.
I love how some authors just make you feel at home with their book. You’re not trying to figure out what’s going on. You’re just enjoying the story. And that’s what happened with this book.
The characters were great. The First Wives friends are an awesome group of women that are completely supportive of everyone. And I absolutely love Liam. He was so kind and sweet; understanding and sexy as hell.
The story is a little different than what I expected with a woman who is recovering from violent act. I love that she has taken control and knows what she wants. Plus, the bit of mystery and suspense was fabulous addition too.
Overall story is wonderful and definitely one series that I would love to continue to read.
* copy received for review consideration
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I had read another book that was similar in theory to the First Wives Club and I thought it was the same author and the continuation of that series. However, this is a different series than the one I was thinking of and it turned out to be a great choice.
I love how some authors just make you feel at home with their book. You’re not trying to figure out what’s going on. You’re just enjoying the story. And that’s what happened with this book.
The characters were great. The First Wives friends are an awesome group of women that are completely supportive of everyone. And I absolutely love Liam. He was so kind and sweet; understanding and sexy as hell.
The story is a little different than what I expected with a woman who is recovering from violent act. I love that she has taken control and knows what she wants. Plus, the bit of mystery and suspense was fabulous addition too.
Overall story is wonderful and definitely one series that I would love to continue to read.
* copy received for review consideration
January 31, 2019
4.5/5.0
Love the heroine! I wasn’t sure if I would like Avery very much judging from previous books, but Ms. Bybee squeezed, twisted and wrenched until I finally admit, I absolutely adore this character! She is such a strong woman, one who doesn’t give up but is capable of such strong love. There were a few small blips but nothing that would seriously jeopardize this lovely story.
Love the heroine! I wasn’t sure if I would like Avery very much judging from previous books, but Ms. Bybee squeezed, twisted and wrenched until I finally admit, I absolutely adore this character! She is such a strong woman, one who doesn’t give up but is capable of such strong love. There were a few small blips but nothing that would seriously jeopardize this lovely story.
November 17, 2018
Check out all of my reviews at: https://www.avonnalovesgenres.com
CHASING SHADOWS (First Wives #3) by Catherine Bybee is a contemporary romance that had me on an emotional roller-coaster from the very first chapter. This is the third book in the series and Avery’s story. This book can be read as a standalone, but all of the women in the First Wives Club appear and interact in this book because of Trina’s wedding.
Avery Grant finally has the financial freedom to live life on her own terms. Her divorce contract left her financially well off and she is now working a job she loves. Avery is a one-night-stand kind of girl who avoids commitment since her divorce. This works well for her until a brutal attack (which occurs in book #2). After a long recovery, Avery starts taking Krav Maga classes vowing to never be a victim again.
Liam Holt sees Avery after a class in a local bar and is immediately intrigued. Liam wants to be the man in Avery’s life. He is charming, sexy and willing to put up with all of Avery’s arguments against dating. She tells him she is a bad bet, but he will not be put off.
When Avery starts having flashbacks of her attack, new clues come to light. Avery is determined to find the man who nearly killed her no matter the consequences to herself or her relationship with Liam.
I could not put this book down! Avery is such a strong and complex heroine. I cried and laughed with her. She goes from carefree to victim to survivor to warrior in such an amazing character story arc. The author shows how Avery allows Liam into her heart step by step with love and laughter. Liam is the perfect book boyfriend in every way for Avery. This is a beautiful step-by-step romance that just hits all of the right notes. How the author handled Avery’s reaction to the discovery of her attacker was unique and had me in tears.
This is a great addition to the First Wives series that I highly recommend!
CHASING SHADOWS (First Wives #3) by Catherine Bybee is a contemporary romance that had me on an emotional roller-coaster from the very first chapter. This is the third book in the series and Avery’s story. This book can be read as a standalone, but all of the women in the First Wives Club appear and interact in this book because of Trina’s wedding.
Avery Grant finally has the financial freedom to live life on her own terms. Her divorce contract left her financially well off and she is now working a job she loves. Avery is a one-night-stand kind of girl who avoids commitment since her divorce. This works well for her until a brutal attack (which occurs in book #2). After a long recovery, Avery starts taking Krav Maga classes vowing to never be a victim again.
Liam Holt sees Avery after a class in a local bar and is immediately intrigued. Liam wants to be the man in Avery’s life. He is charming, sexy and willing to put up with all of Avery’s arguments against dating. She tells him she is a bad bet, but he will not be put off.
When Avery starts having flashbacks of her attack, new clues come to light. Avery is determined to find the man who nearly killed her no matter the consequences to herself or her relationship with Liam.
I could not put this book down! Avery is such a strong and complex heroine. I cried and laughed with her. She goes from carefree to victim to survivor to warrior in such an amazing character story arc. The author shows how Avery allows Liam into her heart step by step with love and laughter. Liam is the perfect book boyfriend in every way for Avery. This is a beautiful step-by-step romance that just hits all of the right notes. How the author handled Avery’s reaction to the discovery of her attacker was unique and had me in tears.
This is a great addition to the First Wives series that I highly recommend!
September 10, 2018
4.5 He’s still alive Stars
I have so many ARC’s I am behind in reading but I knew I needed to read a book by one of my favorite authors to get me back into binge reading.
First Wives club is a group of women who have married and divorced for money. This sounds like it would be very vapid and boring. However, you learn about each woman and how love finds a way to everyone.
This story is about Avery Grant. In previous books I assumed she was a “poor little rich girl” but after Trina’s story (book 2) you start to realize there is actually a lot more to Avery than we knew. This series is really enhanced by reading the books in order because you don’t get the full emotional aspect of the series without doing that. Avery is needing validation for her pain but in a way that makes you scream “girl power”. I think as a woman (even if they have never gone through abuse) Avery will speak to you. She brings out your inner bad ass that shows how strong a woman can be emotionally and physically. As she recoils from her painful experience she has shut off all of her emotions and built some sky high walls that Liam us determined to climb.
I think the story could have been enhanced with a bit more from “Spider” and may a bit longer between the couple as well. But I still loved the purity and strength this book gave.
I have so many ARC’s I am behind in reading but I knew I needed to read a book by one of my favorite authors to get me back into binge reading.
First Wives club is a group of women who have married and divorced for money. This sounds like it would be very vapid and boring. However, you learn about each woman and how love finds a way to everyone.
This story is about Avery Grant. In previous books I assumed she was a “poor little rich girl” but after Trina’s story (book 2) you start to realize there is actually a lot more to Avery than we knew. This series is really enhanced by reading the books in order because you don’t get the full emotional aspect of the series without doing that. Avery is needing validation for her pain but in a way that makes you scream “girl power”. I think as a woman (even if they have never gone through abuse) Avery will speak to you. She brings out your inner bad ass that shows how strong a woman can be emotionally and physically. As she recoils from her painful experience she has shut off all of her emotions and built some sky high walls that Liam us determined to climb.
I think the story could have been enhanced with a bit more from “Spider” and may a bit longer between the couple as well. But I still loved the purity and strength this book gave.
September 3, 2018
Don't pick up a book by Catherine Bybee unless you have several hours free for reading, because once you pick it up you won't be able to stop reading! This is the third book in the First Wives series and it really does help if you have at least read book two since Avery's life was forever changed in book two. Don't want to spoil anything here, so I will just say read book two and then pick this one up next!
As always Catherine Bybee is able to create such wonderful characters that actually feel like real people and ones that you actually wouldn't mind being friends with. A great read and I can't wait to see what is in store for Shannon as the fourth member of the First Wives Club!
As always Catherine Bybee is able to create such wonderful characters that actually feel like real people and ones that you actually wouldn't mind being friends with. A great read and I can't wait to see what is in store for Shannon as the fourth member of the First Wives Club!
February 22, 2020
This was so boring. It felt like there was barely any romance
September 14, 2018
My husband: Whatcha going to do today?
Me: Laundry and cleaning - I'm totally getting the house clean today...I think I'll sit and read a couple of pages of the new Bybee book I have first though...
Me 4 hours later: Well, I had good intentions, but Avery and Liam needed me to read their story start to finish.
Truth be told, Avery is my least favorite of the First Wives Club. A professed player who didn't have much direction in life other than making sure she had enough money to fund her shopping excursions, I found her hard to root for in the beginning. By the end of Trina and Wade's book though she was slowly coming around and now she has found herself a successful career while trying to recover from her attack in the last book. She seems to have matured to some degree, but she claims she does not want to get married and be like her pretentious parents.
Liam starts off being semi-stalkerish, but he is a really good guy. I loved his family and hope his sister gets her own HEA one day. He practices a fair amount of patience given some of Avery's issues - especially with trust and unable to say I love you.
Overall, another winner from Bybee. The romance is a slow build and I did love Liam's support of Avery as she confronted her memories and found happiness with him. Her parents reaction to meeting Liam is hilarious and yay - Samantha and Blake make an appearance. Their story is still one of my faves!!
I can't wait for Shannon's story! I need it!!! Not want it - I need it!!! But then, the series will be over. I'm so torn...
Many thanks to the publisher for a review copy via NetGalley.
Me: Laundry and cleaning - I'm totally getting the house clean today...I think I'll sit and read a couple of pages of the new Bybee book I have first though...
Me 4 hours later: Well, I had good intentions, but Avery and Liam needed me to read their story start to finish.
Truth be told, Avery is my least favorite of the First Wives Club. A professed player who didn't have much direction in life other than making sure she had enough money to fund her shopping excursions, I found her hard to root for in the beginning. By the end of Trina and Wade's book though she was slowly coming around and now she has found herself a successful career while trying to recover from her attack in the last book. She seems to have matured to some degree, but she claims she does not want to get married and be like her pretentious parents.
Liam starts off being semi-stalkerish, but he is a really good guy. I loved his family and hope his sister gets her own HEA one day. He practices a fair amount of patience given some of Avery's issues - especially with trust and unable to say I love you.
Overall, another winner from Bybee. The romance is a slow build and I did love Liam's support of Avery as she confronted her memories and found happiness with him. Her parents reaction to meeting Liam is hilarious and yay - Samantha and Blake make an appearance. Their story is still one of my faves!!
I can't wait for Shannon's story! I need it!!! Not want it - I need it!!! But then, the series will be over. I'm so torn...
Many thanks to the publisher for a review copy via NetGalley.
November 27, 2018
Great book and narration by Emma Wilder (audible review)
This might be my favorite of the series so far. I really liked Avery and her new found fighting skills. She was on a mission to never get beat on again! I liked Liam too. He was handsome and smart. I was kind of worried in the beginning when he was kind of stalkery... but that moved on quickly.
I enjoyed the story line and plot. It all flowed very well and was well written. There was a lot of dialogue throughout the entire book. There is a couple of sex scenes but they were nicely written not rated G or X. Just well written.
I don't know if Catherine Bybee reads her reviews but if you do CB can you please do a book about Sasha please! I am dying to know about her character. She is kind of awesome! Thanks.
As for the narration it was excellent. I enjoyed it a lot. Emma Wilder did a great job on all the voices and has a very nice reading voice.
FRFL with KU!
This might be my favorite of the series so far. I really liked Avery and her new found fighting skills. She was on a mission to never get beat on again! I liked Liam too. He was handsome and smart. I was kind of worried in the beginning when he was kind of stalkery... but that moved on quickly.
I enjoyed the story line and plot. It all flowed very well and was well written. There was a lot of dialogue throughout the entire book. There is a couple of sex scenes but they were nicely written not rated G or X. Just well written.
I don't know if Catherine Bybee reads her reviews but if you do CB can you please do a book about Sasha please! I am dying to know about her character. She is kind of awesome! Thanks.
As for the narration it was excellent. I enjoyed it a lot. Emma Wilder did a great job on all the voices and has a very nice reading voice.
FRFL with KU!
March 28, 2019
Sigh. I'm just addicted to Catherine Bybee, and have been ever since I discovered her Weekday Brides series on Kindle Unlimited several years ago. I immediately inhaled ALL of those books, then her Not Quite series, and then was ecstatic that she did a spin-off of Weekday Brides in this newer series, First Wives. This one wasn't my favorite of her books, but it was very satisfying and featured so many of the recurring characters that I love. I love that these are available as Read & Listen on KU, so I took advantage of the audio for this one and have already started on #4 in the series on audio as well. If you like swoon-worthy contemporary romance that you can just sink into and haven't read Bybee yet, definitely start with the Weekday Brides series!
August 17, 2018
I lost another night of sleep when this book popped up on my Netgalley approval list!!!! But then, I always lose sleep when a new Catherine Bybee book is released because I just can't put her books down.
Book three in the First Wives Club, Chasing Shadows, deals with ex-wife Avery Grant. In the book 2, we saw her viciously attacked and left for dead. It's a year later and rich party girl Avery has undergone some changes - and more than just the new nose she was given after the the attack.
A disciple of Krav Maga now, Avery is one beautiful bad ass woman and no one is ever going to hurt her again. She's always protected her heart but now she protects her body as well. Enter LIam, a contractor with a heart of gold, abs of steel and resolve of concrete. He's not going to let the best thing that's ever come into his life - Avery - go, despite her prickly ways.
Avery's memory of the attack has been absent for this past year, but when snippets of it come back, she is determined to ensure the man responsible is punished. Going back to the scene of the crime puts her in danger, and the ex-wives and Liam are having none of it.
As I said, I read this book in one sitting because it was unput-downable! Thanks to Netgalley and Montlake for allowing me a sneak peak. 5 uber-worthy stars from me and I wish I could give it more! Can't wait for the next installment!!!
Book three in the First Wives Club, Chasing Shadows, deals with ex-wife Avery Grant. In the book 2, we saw her viciously attacked and left for dead. It's a year later and rich party girl Avery has undergone some changes - and more than just the new nose she was given after the the attack.
A disciple of Krav Maga now, Avery is one beautiful bad ass woman and no one is ever going to hurt her again. She's always protected her heart but now she protects her body as well. Enter LIam, a contractor with a heart of gold, abs of steel and resolve of concrete. He's not going to let the best thing that's ever come into his life - Avery - go, despite her prickly ways.
Avery's memory of the attack has been absent for this past year, but when snippets of it come back, she is determined to ensure the man responsible is punished. Going back to the scene of the crime puts her in danger, and the ex-wives and Liam are having none of it.
As I said, I read this book in one sitting because it was unput-downable! Thanks to Netgalley and Montlake for allowing me a sneak peak. 5 uber-worthy stars from me and I wish I could give it more! Can't wait for the next installment!!!
December 30, 2018
4 1/2 "Warrior" Stars!
Loved it! Can't wait for Shannon's book and I hope Sasha gets a book too! Happy reading!
Loved it! Can't wait for Shannon's book and I hope Sasha gets a book too! Happy reading!
November 10, 2018
At only 32% into, I realized Avery, the heroine, and I were just not going to hit it off, folks. Sure, all things were pretty good at first, until she decides to ditch Liam’s genuine, gentlemanly offer of a real date and instead trolls bars alone, with no cell phone, buzzed drunk looking for a meaningless one night stand. Yeah, she’s chasing shots and letting random men hit on her all to prove a point to herself. What logical, rational point, you ask? Well, in my opinion, there wasn’t one. Other than it makes her look plain careless and stupid. You see, this behavior appears to be routine for her, a woman supposedly afraid of being attacked and having her face kicked in by a complete stranger again. It makes no sense she’d put herself in potential harm’s way like this after what she survived.
From that point on, she lost my respect. Were we honestly supposed to breathe a sigh of relief no men that particular night measured up to her standards? What if a guy had? Were we supposed to sit back and read about it, knowing Liam truly liked her. I felt she tainted her budding relationship with him even before their first date. Talk about a romance buzz kill.
In the blink of an eye, it caused Avery’s character portrayal setup not to match her actions. Besides, this type of behavior doesn’t look good on any main couple character, male or female.
This is quite a shame since I liked Avery’s determination and grit in not just learning but mastering self defense. But Liam deserves better, IMHO, and I sure hope he finds it.
Btw, the way Liam set up meeting Avery was rather far fetched, too.
Overall, the storyline and writing itself just wasn’t turning out like I had hoped. I do recommend this author’s The Weekday Brides series though. Those books were great.
Title: Chasing Shadows, Series: First Wives Club (Book 3), Author: Catherine Bybee, Pages: 316, stand-alone but part of a series, didn’t want to finish.
Book 1 - Fool Me Once
Book 2 - Half Empty
Book 3 - Chasing Shadows
(I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own. I was not given any payment or compensation for this
review, nor is there any affiliation or relationship between this reviewer and the author/publisher/NetGalley.)
From that point on, she lost my respect. Were we honestly supposed to breathe a sigh of relief no men that particular night measured up to her standards? What if a guy had? Were we supposed to sit back and read about it, knowing Liam truly liked her. I felt she tainted her budding relationship with him even before their first date. Talk about a romance buzz kill.
In the blink of an eye, it caused Avery’s character portrayal setup not to match her actions. Besides, this type of behavior doesn’t look good on any main couple character, male or female.
This is quite a shame since I liked Avery’s determination and grit in not just learning but mastering self defense. But Liam deserves better, IMHO, and I sure hope he finds it.
Btw, the way Liam set up meeting Avery was rather far fetched, too.
Overall, the storyline and writing itself just wasn’t turning out like I had hoped. I do recommend this author’s The Weekday Brides series though. Those books were great.
Title: Chasing Shadows, Series: First Wives Club (Book 3), Author: Catherine Bybee, Pages: 316, stand-alone but part of a series, didn’t want to finish.
Book 1 - Fool Me Once
Book 2 - Half Empty
Book 3 - Chasing Shadows
(I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own. I was not given any payment or compensation for this
review, nor is there any affiliation or relationship between this reviewer and the author/publisher/NetGalley.)
October 25, 2018
Rating: 3.5 Stars
Avery had not been the same since her brutal attack. One year later, and she is still haunted by the memories of her attacker. She made attempts to make herself feel safer, but she still needed to confront her issues stemming from that fateful day last year in NY.
Overall, I really enjoyed Avery's story. Watching her fade since her attack was hard, and she didn't seem to be making much progress toward her recovery. Yes, she was physically recovered, but mentally and emotionally, she was just putting bandaids on her wounds.
The first wives were busy celebrating marriages and engagements, and I wanted Avery to be able to find her happy with someone too. That someone came in the form of a fabulous contractor named Liam.
I immediately loved Liam. He was funny and sweet, and exactly the type of person Avery needed to help her begin living again. I thought the interactions between Liam and Avery were fun and flirty, but what really made me love him was seeing him with his sister and his niece. Those two women had him wrapped around their little fingers, and he was more than happy to do their bidding. The love he had for his family was so obvious and wonderful, and I knew right then, that he was a keeper.
As always, the whole gang got some page time, and it is always fun spending quality time with the other first wives and their significant others. It reminds me how lucky they are to have each other, and also, how much mayhem they can get into.
Fun and games aside, I was happy Avery got the closure she needed with respect to her attack. It was a new beginning for her, and allowed her to put quite a few of her inner demons to rest.
My only complaint was that I wish Liam and Avery had more time together on page. I adored these two, and wanted to see them have more fun with each other.
The book had a really cute ending, and there was a lot of groundwork laid for Shannon's story, which I am excited about it.
*ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
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Avery had not been the same since her brutal attack. One year later, and she is still haunted by the memories of her attacker. She made attempts to make herself feel safer, but she still needed to confront her issues stemming from that fateful day last year in NY.
Overall, I really enjoyed Avery's story. Watching her fade since her attack was hard, and she didn't seem to be making much progress toward her recovery. Yes, she was physically recovered, but mentally and emotionally, she was just putting bandaids on her wounds.
The first wives were busy celebrating marriages and engagements, and I wanted Avery to be able to find her happy with someone too. That someone came in the form of a fabulous contractor named Liam.
I immediately loved Liam. He was funny and sweet, and exactly the type of person Avery needed to help her begin living again. I thought the interactions between Liam and Avery were fun and flirty, but what really made me love him was seeing him with his sister and his niece. Those two women had him wrapped around their little fingers, and he was more than happy to do their bidding. The love he had for his family was so obvious and wonderful, and I knew right then, that he was a keeper.
As always, the whole gang got some page time, and it is always fun spending quality time with the other first wives and their significant others. It reminds me how lucky they are to have each other, and also, how much mayhem they can get into.
Fun and games aside, I was happy Avery got the closure she needed with respect to her attack. It was a new beginning for her, and allowed her to put quite a few of her inner demons to rest.
My only complaint was that I wish Liam and Avery had more time together on page. I adored these two, and wanted to see them have more fun with each other.
The book had a really cute ending, and there was a lot of groundwork laid for Shannon's story, which I am excited about it.
*ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
BLOG | INSTAGRAM |TWITTER | BLOGLOVIN | FRIEND ME ON GOODREADS
August 25, 2018
Thank you to Montlake Romance and NetGalley for giving me an ARC of this book. The review below is entirely my own opinion.
I think in order to fully appreciate and understand Avery’s story, one should read books 1&2 of the series first. Otherwise, imo, some things will not be as significant and there are mentions of characters from the previous two books.
Because I did read the first two books, I can say that I loved how much Avery has grown from book 1. It was awesome to see her blossom in this book and I liked getting to know her more. She totally deserves her HEA and Liam is a great partner for her. They make a great couple!
I must say though that book 2 still remains as my favorite of the series.
Can’t wait to read Shannon’s story!
I think in order to fully appreciate and understand Avery’s story, one should read books 1&2 of the series first. Otherwise, imo, some things will not be as significant and there are mentions of characters from the previous two books.
Because I did read the first two books, I can say that I loved how much Avery has grown from book 1. It was awesome to see her blossom in this book and I liked getting to know her more. She totally deserves her HEA and Liam is a great partner for her. They make a great couple!
I must say though that book 2 still remains as my favorite of the series.
Can’t wait to read Shannon’s story!
January 10, 2021
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Love this series
Love this series
November 2, 2018
Rcvd an ARC at no cost to author..(netgalley) I really enjoyed book but again was bummed when realized that this was the third book which you come to find out as you read it that there are others which I intend to read, I got a summary by reading the blurbs and reviews of the first to to get a general idea. You can fairly predict what the title is about that something bad had happened to her but I respected her for doing something about it and not just crumpling up.She got a gem in Liam, what a swoon worthy book boyfriend, how he was gentle with her and being just what she needed..Bravo.
August 22, 2018
**I voluntarily read an early copy of this title courtesy of the publisher in exchange for an honest review**
Catherine Bybee is one of my go-to authors and Chasing Shadows is a prime example why. She always finds a way to keep her stories fresh and exciting and also keeps you on the edge of your seat as you wait (most likely impatiently!) to find out what happens to our hero and heroine!
Avery Grant endured a brutal attack and was left for dead. She's physically healed from the encounter, but emotionally, she's not quite there yet. She's taking steps to make herself stronger by taking Krav Maga classes, as she's made herself a promise that she will never be in the position where anyone can hurt her again.
When Liam Holt sees Avery for the first time at a local bar, he's intrigued, but isn't able to get her number. The contractor uses his sleuthing skills and notices the studio name where Avery practices her Krav Maga. Surely there is something at the studio that needs fixing, right?! He's definitely smitten with Avery after their first encounter and he can only hope that his tenacity will pay off in the end.
As Avery and Liam spend more time together, both in the Krav Maga studio and outside, their bond continues to grow and while Avery continues to deal with the aftereffects of her attack, Liam continues to show her that she can rely on him. When Avery finds herself in danger following revelations about the man who attacked her a year earlier, everything that she thought was beginning to be part of her past is brought right back to the forefront. Will she end up putting not only herself, but the First Wives Club members and Liam in jeopardy?
What I loved about this book is it was what Bybee does best - she gives you a fantastic romance with strong female characters who stand up for themselves and aren't afraid to fight, both figuratively and literally, when they need to. I also really enjoyed Avery's journey of self-discovery. She learned more about herself as she had to face the resurfacing of the dark times surrounding her attack, but also her feelings toward love and where that fits in her life. Another awesome addition to the First Wives Club series!
Catherine Bybee is one of my go-to authors and Chasing Shadows is a prime example why. She always finds a way to keep her stories fresh and exciting and also keeps you on the edge of your seat as you wait (most likely impatiently!) to find out what happens to our hero and heroine!
Avery Grant endured a brutal attack and was left for dead. She's physically healed from the encounter, but emotionally, she's not quite there yet. She's taking steps to make herself stronger by taking Krav Maga classes, as she's made herself a promise that she will never be in the position where anyone can hurt her again.
When Liam Holt sees Avery for the first time at a local bar, he's intrigued, but isn't able to get her number. The contractor uses his sleuthing skills and notices the studio name where Avery practices her Krav Maga. Surely there is something at the studio that needs fixing, right?! He's definitely smitten with Avery after their first encounter and he can only hope that his tenacity will pay off in the end.
As Avery and Liam spend more time together, both in the Krav Maga studio and outside, their bond continues to grow and while Avery continues to deal with the aftereffects of her attack, Liam continues to show her that she can rely on him. When Avery finds herself in danger following revelations about the man who attacked her a year earlier, everything that she thought was beginning to be part of her past is brought right back to the forefront. Will she end up putting not only herself, but the First Wives Club members and Liam in jeopardy?
What I loved about this book is it was what Bybee does best - she gives you a fantastic romance with strong female characters who stand up for themselves and aren't afraid to fight, both figuratively and literally, when they need to. I also really enjoyed Avery's journey of self-discovery. She learned more about herself as she had to face the resurfacing of the dark times surrounding her attack, but also her feelings toward love and where that fits in her life. Another awesome addition to the First Wives Club series!
August 18, 2018
Catherine Bybee at her best. A gripping tale, the most recent in the First Wives series. This book has a very different storyline with twists and turns as it progresses. Fascinating characters and a romance threaded through. A must for fans of this genre. Although part of a series where it was great to welcome back ‘old friends’, this book could also be read standalone. I can almost guarantee that any reader doing this would want to follow on by reading the earlier books.
August 20, 2018
**Copy Provided by Netgalley and Montlake Romance for an honest review**
This is the third book in the series and can be read as a stand alone book, however you do miss a lot of the friendship and a little of the plot if you do not read the other books first.
The third book follows Avery a year after the previous book finishes and the brutal attack that landed Avery in the ICU.
A slightly changed Avery is forging on with her life and gets an interruption when Liam steps into her life and decides that she is the woman for him. Avery also starts to remember things from her attack that had been missing and starts out her one woman mission for find out more.
The friends all band together when needed, Trina gets married to Wade and Liam proves to Avery that she can count on him when she needs him and that he is not going anywhere.
Really looking to the next book in regards to Shannon and the fact that she has mentioned that she wants kids soon.
Another brilliantly written book that had me finishing the book within a day.
This is the third book in the series and can be read as a stand alone book, however you do miss a lot of the friendship and a little of the plot if you do not read the other books first.
The third book follows Avery a year after the previous book finishes and the brutal attack that landed Avery in the ICU.
A slightly changed Avery is forging on with her life and gets an interruption when Liam steps into her life and decides that she is the woman for him. Avery also starts to remember things from her attack that had been missing and starts out her one woman mission for find out more.
The friends all band together when needed, Trina gets married to Wade and Liam proves to Avery that she can count on him when she needs him and that he is not going anywhere.
Really looking to the next book in regards to Shannon and the fact that she has mentioned that she wants kids soon.
Another brilliantly written book that had me finishing the book within a day.
March 24, 2021
3.5 stars. This book was good, but def not the best in the series. Overall, I just felt like the h wasn’t the most likable and that’s what brought the story down a bit for me. She’s probably the only one of the group who truly felt like a gold digger and like not the nicest of people. She really went off the deep end and was acting super irrationally during this story which was partially understandable and partially just too over the top. I also didn’t understand why the hero even really liked the heroine (besides her looks).
Still, as much as I have negative things to say, I really do love this series and did enjoy this book. The whole series is very worth reading, imo.
Safe; heroine was very into random hook-ups in the previous books, but stopped a year prior to the start of this book. No real om/ow drama.
Still, as much as I have negative things to say, I really do love this series and did enjoy this book. The whole series is very worth reading, imo.
Safe; heroine was very into random hook-ups in the previous books, but stopped a year prior to the start of this book. No real om/ow drama.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 15, 2020
Love, love, love this series!
November 12, 2018
I stand by my earlier assessment that this First Wives series is an edgier, grittier Catherine Bybee, far removed from her Not Quite series (which I thoroughly enjoyed). But as I said previously...different isn’t bad. It’s just different. And now that I know what to expect from these books, I can go in with my expectations managed!
But that’s not to say I'm not enjoying this series as well. It’s just taken me some adjusting to these First Wives who are jaded, cynical, and in the case of Avery Grant, totally kick-ass.
Before I start, this series really shouldn’t be read out of order. We met all three former first wives and their ring leader/lawyer in the first book, Fool Me Once, and the second book Half Empty sets up the story for this third book. A brief synopsis about what happened to Avery in the second book is given at the beginning of Chasing Shadows, but it is REALLY brief. If you’re going to appreciate this story and these books, I encourage you to read them all!
Back to Chasing Shadows…
This is Avery’s story. Her stint as a first wife was truly a marriage in name only. She walked away with millions of dollars and absolutely zero hard feelings. That’s not to say she is without some baggage from childhood, but what she’s really dealing with is the brutal assault she survived during book two. One year later, her body has healed, but mentally she’s still struggling, and so she’s taken up krav maga to make sure she’s able to defend herself.
When Liam sees Avery for the first time at a bar, he’s immediately interested in her and takes some mildly stalkerish actions to get to know her after a coincidental second meeting. Avery is a little standoffish at first, so Liam pursues her gently but persistently. And when Avery pushes and doesn’t let Liam in, he isn’t deterred.
Even though this series isn’t as light as what a reader is used to from this author, what hasn’t changed are the heroes, and how the stories play out. The heroes in these books are plenty manly, but they aren’t this obnoxious alpha-male character who barks directives at the woman in peril. They are confident, but not cocky. They are kind and sincere, and let the woman be who she is. The hero and heroine behave like adults and deal with their conflicts in rational, mature ways. And I LOVE IT. The plots are compelling and engaging, but have a simplicity to them that is completely appealing to me. There’s no unnecessary drama from other people or ridiculous situations. Just a good, solid story that is entertaining from page one, all the way until the end.
Ms. Bybee is one of my favorite authors (confession: I actually squealed when I got the email saying I'd been approved for this ARC!). Her writing is excellent, her dialogue fantastic, and the characters extremely likeable. I know when I sit down with one of her books I won’t be disappointed, and I am SO hoping there is a final book in this series for the last of the first wives!
* thank you to NetGalley and Montlake Romance for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review
But that’s not to say I'm not enjoying this series as well. It’s just taken me some adjusting to these First Wives who are jaded, cynical, and in the case of Avery Grant, totally kick-ass.
Before I start, this series really shouldn’t be read out of order. We met all three former first wives and their ring leader/lawyer in the first book, Fool Me Once, and the second book Half Empty sets up the story for this third book. A brief synopsis about what happened to Avery in the second book is given at the beginning of Chasing Shadows, but it is REALLY brief. If you’re going to appreciate this story and these books, I encourage you to read them all!
Back to Chasing Shadows…
This is Avery’s story. Her stint as a first wife was truly a marriage in name only. She walked away with millions of dollars and absolutely zero hard feelings. That’s not to say she is without some baggage from childhood, but what she’s really dealing with is the brutal assault she survived during book two. One year later, her body has healed, but mentally she’s still struggling, and so she’s taken up krav maga to make sure she’s able to defend herself.
When Liam sees Avery for the first time at a bar, he’s immediately interested in her and takes some mildly stalkerish actions to get to know her after a coincidental second meeting. Avery is a little standoffish at first, so Liam pursues her gently but persistently. And when Avery pushes and doesn’t let Liam in, he isn’t deterred.
Even though this series isn’t as light as what a reader is used to from this author, what hasn’t changed are the heroes, and how the stories play out. The heroes in these books are plenty manly, but they aren’t this obnoxious alpha-male character who barks directives at the woman in peril. They are confident, but not cocky. They are kind and sincere, and let the woman be who she is. The hero and heroine behave like adults and deal with their conflicts in rational, mature ways. And I LOVE IT. The plots are compelling and engaging, but have a simplicity to them that is completely appealing to me. There’s no unnecessary drama from other people or ridiculous situations. Just a good, solid story that is entertaining from page one, all the way until the end.
Ms. Bybee is one of my favorite authors (confession: I actually squealed when I got the email saying I'd been approved for this ARC!). Her writing is excellent, her dialogue fantastic, and the characters extremely likeable. I know when I sit down with one of her books I won’t be disappointed, and I am SO hoping there is a final book in this series for the last of the first wives!
* thank you to NetGalley and Montlake Romance for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review
November 23, 2018
This is one of those series that each book seems to be better than the last and once again Catherine Bybee has another hit on her hands, this is book 3 in the First Wives Club but each book can be read as a stand-alone although I’m sure once you pick one up you will want to read the others. We met Avery is the previous books and to be honest I wasn’t sure how her story would pan out because at the start of Chasing Shadows she wouldn’t have been a favourite character of mine but as the book progressed so did my love of her and what can I say about Liam well he has got to be one of my all time favourite hero’s, he charmed me he swooned me and I love him so big....
Avery Grant like all the other first wives is left financially secure after her divorce, she has a job she loves, no money worries, some great friends and is loving her Krav Maga Classes which she is taking because one mistake left her battered and bruised and that is something she vowed would never happen again. Avery may seem like she has it all but she is skittish and nervous especially around men she doesn’t know.
Liam Holt sees Avery one night after her class when she is having a drink with a classmate, he is intrigued, the attraction is instant and he is determined to end up the man in her life. He is the perfect man for her because he can be patient , he can bide his time but most of all he can protect her and he is also willing to listen and argue the pros for every con Avery comes up with for not dating.
This book has it all, I laughed, I cried and I fell for Avery and Liam. A strong and complex heroine who we see open up bit by bit with a hot swoon worthy protective hero what more can you ask for. If you love romance with the perfect mix of passion and humour this is the book for you. I highly recommend Chasing Shadows and this series. Looking forward to more from the woman of the First Wives Club.
Avery Grant like all the other first wives is left financially secure after her divorce, she has a job she loves, no money worries, some great friends and is loving her Krav Maga Classes which she is taking because one mistake left her battered and bruised and that is something she vowed would never happen again. Avery may seem like she has it all but she is skittish and nervous especially around men she doesn’t know.
Liam Holt sees Avery one night after her class when she is having a drink with a classmate, he is intrigued, the attraction is instant and he is determined to end up the man in her life. He is the perfect man for her because he can be patient , he can bide his time but most of all he can protect her and he is also willing to listen and argue the pros for every con Avery comes up with for not dating.
This book has it all, I laughed, I cried and I fell for Avery and Liam. A strong and complex heroine who we see open up bit by bit with a hot swoon worthy protective hero what more can you ask for. If you love romance with the perfect mix of passion and humour this is the book for you. I highly recommend Chasing Shadows and this series. Looking forward to more from the woman of the First Wives Club.
November 10, 2018
~~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads ~~
This is the third book in the series - and I would say that you definitely need to read them in order as the underlying themes run through all the books, and in this one we have Trina's wedding to Wade too.
Avery is one of the four women in the First Wives Club, but she has NO intention of ever repeating the act again. She only married to escape from being under the control of her rich but demanding parents. So, whilst she is delighted for Lori and Trina, who have found love, she is still recovering from being attacked and ultra cautious. In fact she is training in krav maga to help her feel safer. I love Avery and her strength, and her care for her friends, but am delighted that she found someone who finally cared about her.
Liam first sees Avery in a bar near the krav maga club, and by good fortune, and a lot of desire, works out how he can meet her again. He is very careful around her, as he realises that she needs him to approach her gently. I have no doubt that living with his sister and niece has made him more aware, and I thought it was a really good way to make that clear.
As the two of them spend time together and learn about each other, we can see the romance and passion developing. Obviously the course of true love is not smooth, but in this case, it revolves around Avery's attack in NY. The chapters when she is in NY trying to recover her memory and find peace again are really difficult, but really well written.
Cannot wait for book 4, and very hopeful that Shannon also gets her HEA at last.
This is the third book in the series - and I would say that you definitely need to read them in order as the underlying themes run through all the books, and in this one we have Trina's wedding to Wade too.
Avery is one of the four women in the First Wives Club, but she has NO intention of ever repeating the act again. She only married to escape from being under the control of her rich but demanding parents. So, whilst she is delighted for Lori and Trina, who have found love, she is still recovering from being attacked and ultra cautious. In fact she is training in krav maga to help her feel safer. I love Avery and her strength, and her care for her friends, but am delighted that she found someone who finally cared about her.
Liam first sees Avery in a bar near the krav maga club, and by good fortune, and a lot of desire, works out how he can meet her again. He is very careful around her, as he realises that she needs him to approach her gently. I have no doubt that living with his sister and niece has made him more aware, and I thought it was a really good way to make that clear.
As the two of them spend time together and learn about each other, we can see the romance and passion developing. Obviously the course of true love is not smooth, but in this case, it revolves around Avery's attack in NY. The chapters when she is in NY trying to recover her memory and find peace again are really difficult, but really well written.
Cannot wait for book 4, and very hopeful that Shannon also gets her HEA at last.
November 9, 2018
5 Star Review Chasing Shadows (First Wives #3) by Catherine Bybee
There is something about Catherine Bybee’s style of writing that resonates with me. She weaves a story that has me invested from the very start. Although a stand alone I would probably be inclined to read the first two books before reading Chasing Shadows as their stories provide the back story for this book. Avery Grant doesn’t date as she is still mentally recovering from an attack that almost killed her. Now she concentrates on her work as an estate sales agent and learning Krav Maga.
From the first moment Liam and Avery meet, the sparks fly and the air around them sizzles. Ms.Bybee creates characters that are strong, yet vulnerable and you know that there will be plenty of romance and some rather steamy scenes.
Liam is determined to learn everything there is to learn about the mysterious and beautiful Avery. This includes being a sparring partner to Avery as she learns to crotchet herself.
When Avery’s past comes back to haunt her and danger rears it’s ugly head, Liam will do what he has to to protect the woman he has come to care for. I fell hard and fast for Liam, he was so swoon worthy and his interactions with his adorable niece made by heart melt.
It was great to see the other ladies of the first wives club and catch up on their lives as well. I love this group of strong and determined women and I cannot wait to see what happens next in this series.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book which was provided by the publisher through NetGalley.
There is something about Catherine Bybee’s style of writing that resonates with me. She weaves a story that has me invested from the very start. Although a stand alone I would probably be inclined to read the first two books before reading Chasing Shadows as their stories provide the back story for this book. Avery Grant doesn’t date as she is still mentally recovering from an attack that almost killed her. Now she concentrates on her work as an estate sales agent and learning Krav Maga.
From the first moment Liam and Avery meet, the sparks fly and the air around them sizzles. Ms.Bybee creates characters that are strong, yet vulnerable and you know that there will be plenty of romance and some rather steamy scenes.
Liam is determined to learn everything there is to learn about the mysterious and beautiful Avery. This includes being a sparring partner to Avery as she learns to crotchet herself.
When Avery’s past comes back to haunt her and danger rears it’s ugly head, Liam will do what he has to to protect the woman he has come to care for. I fell hard and fast for Liam, he was so swoon worthy and his interactions with his adorable niece made by heart melt.
It was great to see the other ladies of the first wives club and catch up on their lives as well. I love this group of strong and determined women and I cannot wait to see what happens next in this series.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book which was provided by the publisher through NetGalley.
November 11, 2018
I didn't think this series could get any better after the last one but I was wrong, this one tops the last. Avery is definitely a warrior, not just a survivor! Oh, and Liam. When we get the first glimpse of him in Pugs Bar, I thought he was going to be a problem but oh, he is so much more, he is her redemption, just what she needed at this point in her life. The First Wives come together for Trina's wedding and, much to Avery's chagrin, Liam is invited into the fold and exposed to group and what it will take to be in Avery's life. Chasing Shadows is perfectly told so we are brought along with Avery as she recovers from the devastating attack and now nearly a year later what after learning to fight and survive and now her memories are coming back and with this she takes her fate into her hands and disappears to New York City to find her attacker herself. Will Liam let her go or will he rally the troops when he finally discovers she has disappeared? Oh, this was so good and I couldn't put it down. This one could be read as a standalone, as all in this series, but why would you want to do that!
I definitely recommend this one!
**Received this ARC for review from the publisher via NetGalley**
I definitely recommend this one!
**Received this ARC for review from the publisher via NetGalley**
November 5, 2018
Chasing Shadows is surprising, sexy, and shows a new side to Avery. Out of the first wives, Avery seemed the least settled and went a little wild after her divorce. She's no longer the carefree woman she was after her attack. I loved seeing this new more serious side where Avery finds a new purpose in life through arranging estate sales and finding confidence in krav maga. She doesn't really let anyone in, including her best friends, until the sexy Liam pursues her. Liam is sexy, charming, confident, and loyal to his family. He's intrigued by Avery on every level and makes sure to show her that he is trustworthy and worth breaking her stance on not dating. They have an immediate connection that only gets stronger over time. Avery still struggles with her attack and there were some intriguing and surprising twists to that storyline. Catherine Bybee did a great job in developing Avery throughout the series and providing the payoff in this story. Chasing Shadows can be read as a standalone.
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