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Vortex
Constant spinning, round and round and round, temperatures rise and fall from stifling heat to chilling cold, emotions run high in anticipation of what will happen next… there’s a fine line between surviving a tornado and falling in love.
A close encounter with a tornado, during the final months of her doctoral studies, jogs a lost memory to the surface. Desperate to relive the vision and find answers, storm chaser Elaina Adams continually puts her safety at risk by placing herself in the path of dangerous storms.
When betrayal strikes, Elaina is forced to pair up with Robert Tucker. “Tuck” owns a storm chasing tour group and only cares about two things: chasing tornadoes and making his next buck.
Seth Maddux was climbing his way to the top as the star meteorologist for the Forecast channel, but an embarrassing outburst on camera sent his career on a downward spiral. Hoping to reignite his career with a promising field assignment, he meets Elaina and a different kind of flame sparks.
Family secrets surface and passions explode in this twister of a tale.
Winner of the 2019 Pencraft Award in Women's Fiction, Vortex is a story of family, love, identity and determination set against the thrilling backdrop of Tornado Alley.
A close encounter with a tornado, during the final months of her doctoral studies, jogs a lost memory to the surface. Desperate to relive the vision and find answers, storm chaser Elaina Adams continually puts her safety at risk by placing herself in the path of dangerous storms.
When betrayal strikes, Elaina is forced to pair up with Robert Tucker. “Tuck” owns a storm chasing tour group and only cares about two things: chasing tornadoes and making his next buck.
Seth Maddux was climbing his way to the top as the star meteorologist for the Forecast channel, but an embarrassing outburst on camera sent his career on a downward spiral. Hoping to reignite his career with a promising field assignment, he meets Elaina and a different kind of flame sparks.
Family secrets surface and passions explode in this twister of a tale.
Winner of the 2019 Pencraft Award in Women's Fiction, Vortex is a story of family, love, identity and determination set against the thrilling backdrop of Tornado Alley.
320 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 31, 2019
56 people are currently reading
144 people want to read
About the author
Kimberly Packard
7 books221 followersKimberly Packard is an award-winning author of women’s fiction.
She began visiting her spot on the shelves at libraries and bookstores at a young age, gazing between the Os and the Qs. Kimberly received a degree in journalism from the University of North Texas, and has worked in public relations and communications for nearly 20 years.
When she isn’t writing, she can be found running, planning her next trip, asking her dog what’s in his mouth or curled up with a book. She resides in Texas with her husband Colby, a clever cat named Oliver and a precocious black lab named Tully.
Her debut novel, Phoenix, was awarded as Best General Fiction of 2013 by the Texas Association of Authors. Other published works by Kimberly includes a Christmas novella, The Crazy Yates, and the sequels to Phoenix, Pardon Falls and Prospera Pass, and her stand-alone titles, Vortex, Dire’s Club and This Time Around. She was honored as one of the Top 10 Haute Young Authors by Southern Methodist University in 2019 (she was most excited about the young part). Vortex was the 2019 winner of the Pencraft award in Women’s Fiction, and Dire’s Club, was awarded the 2021 General Fiction of the Year by the North Texas Book Festival. Her most recent novel, This Time Around, was an America Book Fest finalist in romance and winner of a 2025 Stiletto award from the Contemporary Romance Writers.
She began visiting her spot on the shelves at libraries and bookstores at a young age, gazing between the Os and the Qs. Kimberly received a degree in journalism from the University of North Texas, and has worked in public relations and communications for nearly 20 years.
When she isn’t writing, she can be found running, planning her next trip, asking her dog what’s in his mouth or curled up with a book. She resides in Texas with her husband Colby, a clever cat named Oliver and a precocious black lab named Tully.
Her debut novel, Phoenix, was awarded as Best General Fiction of 2013 by the Texas Association of Authors. Other published works by Kimberly includes a Christmas novella, The Crazy Yates, and the sequels to Phoenix, Pardon Falls and Prospera Pass, and her stand-alone titles, Vortex, Dire’s Club and This Time Around. She was honored as one of the Top 10 Haute Young Authors by Southern Methodist University in 2019 (she was most excited about the young part). Vortex was the 2019 winner of the Pencraft award in Women’s Fiction, and Dire’s Club, was awarded the 2021 General Fiction of the Year by the North Texas Book Festival. Her most recent novel, This Time Around, was an America Book Fest finalist in romance and winner of a 2025 Stiletto award from the Contemporary Romance Writers.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
March 4, 2019
3.5 Stars.
Wow! That cover! It's what drew me to this story and blurb got me one clicking.
Vortex is a steady paced, twisty story, combining the thrill storm of chasing with the emotions of a young woman trying to make sense of the shocking memories the storms stir up.
While the story held my attention all the way through, there were plot threads that I felt were unclear, under developed and not given the attention they deserved. That combined some events I saw as unnecessary to the story, left me feeling a bit unfulfilled in the end.
Still, I found the story interesting and original, if not well rounded. I have no regrets at picking it up and would definitely give this author another go.
Wow! That cover! It's what drew me to this story and blurb got me one clicking.
Vortex is a steady paced, twisty story, combining the thrill storm of chasing with the emotions of a young woman trying to make sense of the shocking memories the storms stir up.
While the story held my attention all the way through, there were plot threads that I felt were unclear, under developed and not given the attention they deserved. That combined some events I saw as unnecessary to the story, left me feeling a bit unfulfilled in the end.
Still, I found the story interesting and original, if not well rounded. I have no regrets at picking it up and would definitely give this author another go.
July 16, 2024
Very gorgeous book! All the characters seemed so real! Elaina's character development was unlike any I have read before. I also might have pictured Seth as Glen Powell.... The very last plot twist(er) was unbelievable! Now excuse me while I make a trip to Gulf Shores and find some sea shells to make my next review.
12/9/23 I got to meet this author at an event! She was very kind and signed my book!
Book Playlist:
Blown Away by Carrie Underwood
Oblivion by Zayde Wolf
If you liked this book, then I suggest:
The Dier's Club by this author
Panic by Lauren Oliver
12/9/23 I got to meet this author at an event! She was very kind and signed my book!
Book Playlist:
Blown Away by Carrie Underwood
Oblivion by Zayde Wolf
If you liked this book, then I suggest:
The Dier's Club by this author
Panic by Lauren Oliver
January 14, 2023
First book by this author and I will definitely be reading more by her. Great story and “twist(er)” at the end 😉 It was a steady read for me in the beginning and then turned into a page turner.
March 20, 2019
I thought this book sounded like an interesting genre-bender with tornados and secrets. I was disappointed. First, there were several comma and syntax errors and a few wrong word errors. I could easily ignore that if the story were better. I felt it was really convoluted. There were too many POVs, and it seemed at least three guys were interested in the main gal. And her character was really a hot mess, behaving unpredictably or nonsensically numerous times. In fact, many of the characters were quite inconsistent. The subject of tornadoes was a big hook for me, but I found the descriptions of the events really confusing even after rereading them. In one case, the main character was trying to get the attention of another character to warn him of a tornado at his back. As far as I could tell, by the time she got through to him, the tornado had died away and her intervention ended up not being needed. Yet in at least one place following that, the event was referred to as a rescue. I was surprised at the ending, and not in a good way. Perhaps with better editing including a substantive edit, this book would be a better read.
February 2, 2019
This is the first book I have read from this author and she blew me away. I absolutely love a good romance story with some suspense but this book exceeded all my expectations. I was hooked on this story right from the start. You can’t help but to fall in love with these characters.
Elaina Adams is getting her doctorate in a very dangerous field. She is a storm chaser and she absolutely loves it. Elaina gets a feeling that a tornado is coming her way and she needs to help the public. She is trying to make more of a warning time for people to seek shelter in a tornado. Elaina’s plan goes wrong and she is almost killed. She has no idea how it happened but the tornado just left. As she was fighting for her life she had a vision about her past. Now Elaina is wanting to find out the truth about her childhood. She is then called into a meeting with her boss and she is told that her chasing will be documented. Elaina is not too happy about this but when she meets the handsome Seth things change. Will Elaina find out the truth about her past or will it be all blown away?
I absolutely loved this book. The storyline has it all romance, suspense, and mystery. You will fall in love with all of these characters. Elaina is a strong and independent woman that knows what she wants. She absolutely loves her work and she would do anything for the people she loves. Seth is handsome guy that is trying to get his career back. He has strong feeling for Elaina but he doesn’t understand why. This is a very emotional story. There will be times of joy and also sadness but you will not be disappointed. This talented author will keep you at the edge of your seat until the end. I can’t wait to see what this author will have for us next.
Elaina Adams is getting her doctorate in a very dangerous field. She is a storm chaser and she absolutely loves it. Elaina gets a feeling that a tornado is coming her way and she needs to help the public. She is trying to make more of a warning time for people to seek shelter in a tornado. Elaina’s plan goes wrong and she is almost killed. She has no idea how it happened but the tornado just left. As she was fighting for her life she had a vision about her past. Now Elaina is wanting to find out the truth about her childhood. She is then called into a meeting with her boss and she is told that her chasing will be documented. Elaina is not too happy about this but when she meets the handsome Seth things change. Will Elaina find out the truth about her past or will it be all blown away?
I absolutely loved this book. The storyline has it all romance, suspense, and mystery. You will fall in love with all of these characters. Elaina is a strong and independent woman that knows what she wants. She absolutely loves her work and she would do anything for the people she loves. Seth is handsome guy that is trying to get his career back. He has strong feeling for Elaina but he doesn’t understand why. This is a very emotional story. There will be times of joy and also sadness but you will not be disappointed. This talented author will keep you at the edge of your seat until the end. I can’t wait to see what this author will have for us next.
February 14, 2020
Wow...talk about an action packed read, this book is so good! Its just never ending and I loved it. A story of a young storm chaser who actually can feel a storm, and needs to find answers to her childhood, so many memories of things she can't understand.
Great characters and a very good storyline.
Great characters and a very good storyline.
December 22, 2023
another read from the local author fest! I really liked this one! It was interesting, engaging, and suspenseful! Loved the idea of the main character being a storm chaser, that was a concept I hadn’t read before! And a great slow-burn love story (with 0 spice- for those who were curious) can’t wait to read Kimberly’s other books!
March 9, 2019
"To tornadoes, may they dance across the sky but never across a man's body."
From the book's evocative cover and intriguing synopsis, I was immediately captivated and had to know more. Ultimately, this was an absolute gem that BLEW me away, but thankfully not in the literal sense!
Following a talented and eclectic group of storm chasers, it was utterly fascinating to read about various aspects within the field of meteorology. Elaina and her academic partner, Heath, are doctoral candidates studying tornadogenesis, the process by which a tornado forms, and its implications towards increased response time. She has always felt a kindred tie to the weather, especially when she experiences a close encounter that awakens a memory from her past. Seth is a TV meteorologist, attempting a second chance at getting his career back on track after an on-air fallout. Tuck runs a "tour" business shuttling people to storms so they can witness the awe of Mother Nature firsthand. Each converges in unexpected and emotional ways that makes this story so much more layered and unique than the synopsis could ever ultimately convey.
"The rotation scooted back, but still churned overhead, not yet birthing a tornado, but definitely in labor."
Nothing is ever as it appears to be and I absolutely loved the use of storms as a metaphor to communicate not just the actual weather itself, but the emotional and personal struggles facing each character. There are a lot of conflicts churning largely centered on relationship dynamics, so batten down the hatches for an amazingly graceful and touching ride.
Everything from the masterfully relatable character development to the author's meticulous and atmospheric descriptions made this story come alive! The pacing and suspense work so well together to truly drive the high speed intensity and energy of the work involved. In much the same way that a tornado suddenly touches down and leaves an impact, I was left breathless as it all swept into my life when I opened the book and out again when the final page was read.
"Ever since that tornado, her grip on her identity felt loosened, like holding onto a weather balloon only to have it pulled out of her fingers and float away."
The story's use of memory rewriting was one of the most compelling and interesting features I have read within the psychological genre. It was such a refreshing departure from all the amnesiacs, alcoholics, and adultering gaslighters! This concept crafts a heart-breaking, yet heartwarming tale that is deeply moving, entirely unforgettable, and hard to put down.
A completely immersive experience that should not be missed!
February 25, 2019
**I was provided an advance copy for review purposes; all opinions are my own.**
Let me start by saying that while the synopsis sounds great – it doesn’t come close to doing it justice. At. All. Vortex is so much more that the description allows for – like a tornado, it will suck you in, and toss you around, and make you hold your breath.
Fast paced, richly detailed, emotional, and surprising sums up this story. Both Elaina and her sweet dog Nimbus (kitted out with a pink bicycle helmet - I just love this dog) have a remarkable way of sensing approaching storms. As a tornado breaks, a memory is triggered that tosses her world upside down. A chance dinner companion (grandma used to say there is no such thing as coincidences, right?) gives that out-of-the-blue memory more teeth and sets her on a path to uncover the secrets in her past – and it puts her on a collision course with one giant storm, both literally and figuratively.
Packard’s attention to detail brings the story to life and the scenes with the storms are particularly vivid and fraught with tension. Honestly this tale is loaded with tension, and not just with the storms themselves: it’s palpable between Elaina and Seth, who seems to rub her the wrong way every chance meeting; between Elaina and Tuck, a rather unlikable character with a gift of reading the storms; between Elaina and her mother Connie, who seems to be hiding a secret; and eventually, even between Elaina and her doctoral partner, Heath.
There are betrayals and heartbreak, as well as redemption and self-discovery. Vortex is an emotional roller coaster and unputdownable.
I loved the look at storm chasing, so to speak, from three vastly different sides – from Elaina, the doctoral candidate doing research, from Seth, a meteorologist who is chasing both storms from a news perspective and to revive his career, and Tuck, who chases storms to dig himself out of debt, and has his own secrets.
Growing up in Illinois and now living in Texas, I have a healthy respect for – and fear of – tornados, and so from my perspective, storm chasers are a different breed of crazy. It’s this feeling of borderline insanity that lends its own kind taut and palpable fear as the author described the storms.
If you like a tightly written, fast-paced story that pulls you in and spits you out, Vortex is for you.
Let me start by saying that while the synopsis sounds great – it doesn’t come close to doing it justice. At. All. Vortex is so much more that the description allows for – like a tornado, it will suck you in, and toss you around, and make you hold your breath.
Fast paced, richly detailed, emotional, and surprising sums up this story. Both Elaina and her sweet dog Nimbus (kitted out with a pink bicycle helmet - I just love this dog) have a remarkable way of sensing approaching storms. As a tornado breaks, a memory is triggered that tosses her world upside down. A chance dinner companion (grandma used to say there is no such thing as coincidences, right?) gives that out-of-the-blue memory more teeth and sets her on a path to uncover the secrets in her past – and it puts her on a collision course with one giant storm, both literally and figuratively.
Packard’s attention to detail brings the story to life and the scenes with the storms are particularly vivid and fraught with tension. Honestly this tale is loaded with tension, and not just with the storms themselves: it’s palpable between Elaina and Seth, who seems to rub her the wrong way every chance meeting; between Elaina and Tuck, a rather unlikable character with a gift of reading the storms; between Elaina and her mother Connie, who seems to be hiding a secret; and eventually, even between Elaina and her doctoral partner, Heath.
…Elaina couldn’t help but feel instead of digging holes for lettuce, her mother was digging a hole to bury the past.
There are betrayals and heartbreak, as well as redemption and self-discovery. Vortex is an emotional roller coaster and unputdownable.
I loved the look at storm chasing, so to speak, from three vastly different sides – from Elaina, the doctoral candidate doing research, from Seth, a meteorologist who is chasing both storms from a news perspective and to revive his career, and Tuck, who chases storms to dig himself out of debt, and has his own secrets.
“Is that the only scar you got?”
“yeah, that’s it, kid.”
It was a bigger lie than the tall tale of the fire tornado. He did have another scar, but he wasn’t about to show that to no one. No matter how much money they offered.
Growing up in Illinois and now living in Texas, I have a healthy respect for – and fear of – tornados, and so from my perspective, storm chasers are a different breed of crazy. It’s this feeling of borderline insanity that lends its own kind taut and palpable fear as the author described the storms.
The Texas air was tight with electricity. Heavy gray clouds greedily slurped up moisture, and fierce winds blowing from the north stirred a cauldron of hail and energy.
If you like a tightly written, fast-paced story that pulls you in and spits you out, Vortex is for you.
February 28, 2019
Welcome to the world of Elaina Adams, doctoral candidate and storm chaser, where unpredictability and the unknown have fueled an intense need to understand and confront her fears. As she attempts to complete her thesis on tornado genesis, repressed memories surface that could completely alter her conception of who she really is. Does she really want to reveal the secrets to her past? Will their revelation destroy her along with everyone and everything that she loves including her beloved yellow Labrador Retriever?
Kimberly Packard has written a riveting book that is part mystery, part psychological thriller, and part romance aptly titled Vortex. As her world circles around her, Elaina is drawn into the vacuum and becomes subject to its destructive forces. She will not be the only one!
Heath Bryant is her research partner. As Elaina’s determination to unravel the mystery of her past causes her to take unnecessary risks, how far is he willing to go and at what cost?
Seth Maddux is a newscaster who needs to salvage his career after an on-air meltdown. He and Elaina are drawn to each other romantically, but neither Seth nor Elaina are sure they should pursue their mutual attraction. Seth has been hurt in a prior relationship while Elaina doesn’t need the distraction from her research. Will they give in to their feelings?
Robert Tucker is a sleazy storm chaser who conducts tours for thrill seekers. He’s strictly in it for the money, but he does have an instinctive ability to predict tornadoes. Tuck also has secrets that are linked to Elaina’s past. He’s a menacing presence in an already dangerous situation. Should Elaina trust him?
Dr. Tom Pierce is the foremost expert on tornadoes and Elaina’s university mentor and financial sponsor. Crippled in a car accident during a severe storm, he can no longer conduct field research. Is there a hidden agenda behind his decision to advance the timeline for Elaina to complete her thesis even at the risk of personal injury to her and her partner?
Psychiatrist Harrington Preston treats individuals with repressed memories. In some cases those memories have been deliberately blocked by the drug “Retentamine.” Was Elaina given the drug during her childhood?
The answers to these questions are revealed in a climactic ending that forces each of these characters to face his or her reality and the consequences of their actions.
Kudos to Kimberly Packard for writing a thoroughly entertaining story that will definitely appeal to women and even to guys like me that normally do not read romance novels!
Kimberly Packard has written a riveting book that is part mystery, part psychological thriller, and part romance aptly titled Vortex. As her world circles around her, Elaina is drawn into the vacuum and becomes subject to its destructive forces. She will not be the only one!
Heath Bryant is her research partner. As Elaina’s determination to unravel the mystery of her past causes her to take unnecessary risks, how far is he willing to go and at what cost?
Seth Maddux is a newscaster who needs to salvage his career after an on-air meltdown. He and Elaina are drawn to each other romantically, but neither Seth nor Elaina are sure they should pursue their mutual attraction. Seth has been hurt in a prior relationship while Elaina doesn’t need the distraction from her research. Will they give in to their feelings?
Robert Tucker is a sleazy storm chaser who conducts tours for thrill seekers. He’s strictly in it for the money, but he does have an instinctive ability to predict tornadoes. Tuck also has secrets that are linked to Elaina’s past. He’s a menacing presence in an already dangerous situation. Should Elaina trust him?
Dr. Tom Pierce is the foremost expert on tornadoes and Elaina’s university mentor and financial sponsor. Crippled in a car accident during a severe storm, he can no longer conduct field research. Is there a hidden agenda behind his decision to advance the timeline for Elaina to complete her thesis even at the risk of personal injury to her and her partner?
Psychiatrist Harrington Preston treats individuals with repressed memories. In some cases those memories have been deliberately blocked by the drug “Retentamine.” Was Elaina given the drug during her childhood?
The answers to these questions are revealed in a climactic ending that forces each of these characters to face his or her reality and the consequences of their actions.
Kudos to Kimberly Packard for writing a thoroughly entertaining story that will definitely appeal to women and even to guys like me that normally do not read romance novels!
February 22, 2019
5 Stars
WOW! I don’t quite know what I was expecting from this book when I started it, except that I knew it would be good, just as all Ms. Packard’s other books have been- but this far and away exceeded all my expectations and then some. Vortex by Kimberly Packard has just become one of my top 5 reads this year! I know that there is still a lot of the year to get through, but I am certain that come December, it will still be part of the top reads of the year- it’s just that compelling, edgy, mysterious, intriguing, and completely riveting!! I couldn’t put it down, reading the whole book in a matter of hours, but also at the same time, not really wanting it to finish. This would make a brilliant movie- and I would love to read more about Elaina (and Seth’s) storm chasing adventures in the future!! Hint, hint, Ms. Packard 😊.
The story was quite an exhilarating ride and took me on an adventure that I won’t soon forget! There is suspense, action, drama, danger, mystery, tension, twists, surprising developments, tornadoes, family relationships, secrets, self-discovery, storm chasing, second chances, betrayal, loss, a little romance, and sooo much more.
I am most definitely addicted to Ms. Packard’s stories, with her Phoenix series amongst my favourite reads- but this one, seemingly unassuming book (to look at), has trumped them all! Ms. Packard orchestrated this story like a world-class maestro would a symphony, building the tension and intensity the whole way through- before finally reaching the zenith with a massive crescendo of adrenaline inducing, edge of your seat action. Much like a building storm I watched as all the elements melded together, roiling and surging- quite unpredictably, while holding me in complete anticipation and expectation- the whole way through.
This is such a well thought out story, with intricately detailed elements and descriptions, full of intriguing tornado (storm) facts and information that really helped to set the mood and tone of the overall story. The intricately woven story is full of inter-connected details that showcase just how brilliant a storyteller (and writer) Ms. Packard really is! The story is told from several POV’s which added a lot of interest and gave the story more depth, drama, and intrigue.
Highly Recommended reading!
Thank you, Ms. Packard!
WOW! I don’t quite know what I was expecting from this book when I started it, except that I knew it would be good, just as all Ms. Packard’s other books have been- but this far and away exceeded all my expectations and then some. Vortex by Kimberly Packard has just become one of my top 5 reads this year! I know that there is still a lot of the year to get through, but I am certain that come December, it will still be part of the top reads of the year- it’s just that compelling, edgy, mysterious, intriguing, and completely riveting!! I couldn’t put it down, reading the whole book in a matter of hours, but also at the same time, not really wanting it to finish. This would make a brilliant movie- and I would love to read more about Elaina (and Seth’s) storm chasing adventures in the future!! Hint, hint, Ms. Packard 😊.
The story was quite an exhilarating ride and took me on an adventure that I won’t soon forget! There is suspense, action, drama, danger, mystery, tension, twists, surprising developments, tornadoes, family relationships, secrets, self-discovery, storm chasing, second chances, betrayal, loss, a little romance, and sooo much more.
I am most definitely addicted to Ms. Packard’s stories, with her Phoenix series amongst my favourite reads- but this one, seemingly unassuming book (to look at), has trumped them all! Ms. Packard orchestrated this story like a world-class maestro would a symphony, building the tension and intensity the whole way through- before finally reaching the zenith with a massive crescendo of adrenaline inducing, edge of your seat action. Much like a building storm I watched as all the elements melded together, roiling and surging- quite unpredictably, while holding me in complete anticipation and expectation- the whole way through.
This is such a well thought out story, with intricately detailed elements and descriptions, full of intriguing tornado (storm) facts and information that really helped to set the mood and tone of the overall story. The intricately woven story is full of inter-connected details that showcase just how brilliant a storyteller (and writer) Ms. Packard really is! The story is told from several POV’s which added a lot of interest and gave the story more depth, drama, and intrigue.
Highly Recommended reading!
Thank you, Ms. Packard!
February 24, 2019
Storm chasing - those words will either instill fear or exhilaration in the hearts of a human. I'm not 100% sure where I would fall in those camps but nature is a wondrous thing with what comes from colliding temperatures and all that other scientific jargon that I don't understand but Kimberly Packard wraps up the terminology in easy to understand bits and weaves a tale of love, loss, memories, and hope.
This book enthralled me and it was hard to put down. I would find myself reading "just one more chapter" before getting reading for work or before turning out the light at night. The characters were raw yet real and could be someone we know in our own lives. Elaina wasn't the only character that had baggage they were holding on to for too long. Seth threw away a promising career thanks to a coworker, Tuck is a brilliant storm chaser but has a gambling problem, and Connie (Elaina's mother) just want to protect her daughter and is afraid to tell her the truth about her life before being adopted. There were so many great elements that will pull you into the story in different ways. The way the author describes the storms was genius and caused me to think about storms in a whole new way.
I did figure out a part of the story tied to Elaina's past. It was pure luck as not much in the story pulls you in this direction, but the pieces seemed to fit for me. I am not going to say more only because I don't want to give anything away because the story really builds to this piece of Elaina's past.
One of my favorite lines from the book is actually what was on one of Elaina's t-shirts - "I'm more confused than a chameleon in a bag of skittles."
Some of my other favorite lines:
"Ever since that tornado, her grip on her identity felt loosened, like holding onto a weather balloon only to have it pulled out of her fingers and float away."
"What if the sign ahead was a green light, telling him the road would likely be bumpy and curvy, but it was the route he was supposed to take? What if saying yes changed everything?"Why should you read this book? You should only read it if you want it to sweep you up, twirl you around, and then blow you away just like a tornado.
This is why we are giving it 5 paws up!
This book enthralled me and it was hard to put down. I would find myself reading "just one more chapter" before getting reading for work or before turning out the light at night. The characters were raw yet real and could be someone we know in our own lives. Elaina wasn't the only character that had baggage they were holding on to for too long. Seth threw away a promising career thanks to a coworker, Tuck is a brilliant storm chaser but has a gambling problem, and Connie (Elaina's mother) just want to protect her daughter and is afraid to tell her the truth about her life before being adopted. There were so many great elements that will pull you into the story in different ways. The way the author describes the storms was genius and caused me to think about storms in a whole new way.
I did figure out a part of the story tied to Elaina's past. It was pure luck as not much in the story pulls you in this direction, but the pieces seemed to fit for me. I am not going to say more only because I don't want to give anything away because the story really builds to this piece of Elaina's past.
One of my favorite lines from the book is actually what was on one of Elaina's t-shirts - "I'm more confused than a chameleon in a bag of skittles."
Some of my other favorite lines:
"Ever since that tornado, her grip on her identity felt loosened, like holding onto a weather balloon only to have it pulled out of her fingers and float away."
"What if the sign ahead was a green light, telling him the road would likely be bumpy and curvy, but it was the route he was supposed to take? What if saying yes changed everything?"Why should you read this book? You should only read it if you want it to sweep you up, twirl you around, and then blow you away just like a tornado.
This is why we are giving it 5 paws up!
February 1, 2019
Vortex
By: Kimberly Packard
5 out of 5 stars
The story Vortex by Kimberly Packard is a wonderful book that I enjoyed reading. The story is both emotional and takes you on a high-speed ride with storm chasers. It at times had me on the edge of my seat wondering what was going to happen next. I loved reading about the character of Elaina Adams. She is strong, independent, and has a determination to get her doctorate. A memory has been awakened when she has a close encounter in a storm. She now finds herself looking for answers while putting herself in danger with each new storm she chases. Will Elaina find the answers that she seeks? There are also two other characters that play a part in this story. One of them is Seth Maddux. He is a man who is trying to get his career back on track. He also finds himself very attracted to Elaina. Robert Tucker or “Tuck” is a man that runs a storm chasing business. Because of betrayal, Elaina is forced to pair up with him. Tuck is a man that seems to be more out for himself, so I wondered what his motives were. This story has emotional and intense dialogue. It has times that are sad and heartbreaking. There are other times when the fast pace and danger that comes with chasing storms is felt. My emotions went up and down with the characters. Elaina is a character that I grew to care for with each chapter that I read. Don’t miss out on a story that will pull you in and won’t let go until the end. I would highly recommend reading it.
By: Kimberly Packard
5 out of 5 stars
The story Vortex by Kimberly Packard is a wonderful book that I enjoyed reading. The story is both emotional and takes you on a high-speed ride with storm chasers. It at times had me on the edge of my seat wondering what was going to happen next. I loved reading about the character of Elaina Adams. She is strong, independent, and has a determination to get her doctorate. A memory has been awakened when she has a close encounter in a storm. She now finds herself looking for answers while putting herself in danger with each new storm she chases. Will Elaina find the answers that she seeks? There are also two other characters that play a part in this story. One of them is Seth Maddux. He is a man who is trying to get his career back on track. He also finds himself very attracted to Elaina. Robert Tucker or “Tuck” is a man that runs a storm chasing business. Because of betrayal, Elaina is forced to pair up with him. Tuck is a man that seems to be more out for himself, so I wondered what his motives were. This story has emotional and intense dialogue. It has times that are sad and heartbreaking. There are other times when the fast pace and danger that comes with chasing storms is felt. My emotions went up and down with the characters. Elaina is a character that I grew to care for with each chapter that I read. Don’t miss out on a story that will pull you in and won’t let go until the end. I would highly recommend reading it.
December 25, 2023
I received a complimentary electronic copy of this fine disaster novel from the Author Kimberly Packard. Thank you so much for sharing your hard work with me. I have read Vortex of my own volition, and this review reflects my honest opinion of this work. I am pleased to recommend Kimberly Packard to friends and family. She writes a tight mystery with personable characters.
This one is a doozie - Elaina is in the final steps before completing her doctorate, doing research with her studies partner Heath as they accompany storm-chasers during tornado season and racking up a series of data and information that will feed into the final defense of their doctorates. Her adopted mother is currently in the hospital following a stroke but storm season is wrapping up and she has to be out there chasing tornados while she can. But being in the proximity of these destructive storms is bringing back memories from her very early years, what she feels are memories in any case, from the time before her adoption. Were those really her first memories of her birth mother? Who could she ask? She and her storm-chasing dog Nim are under a lot of pressure to take care of school business, but she also needs time for her family. It doesn't look like that is going to happen, however. Nor can she think who to approach to question those memories she relived in the storm.
REVIEWED on December 24, 2023 at Goodreads, AmazonSmile, Barens&Noble, BookBub, and Kobo.
This one is a doozie - Elaina is in the final steps before completing her doctorate, doing research with her studies partner Heath as they accompany storm-chasers during tornado season and racking up a series of data and information that will feed into the final defense of their doctorates. Her adopted mother is currently in the hospital following a stroke but storm season is wrapping up and she has to be out there chasing tornados while she can. But being in the proximity of these destructive storms is bringing back memories from her very early years, what she feels are memories in any case, from the time before her adoption. Were those really her first memories of her birth mother? Who could she ask? She and her storm-chasing dog Nim are under a lot of pressure to take care of school business, but she also needs time for her family. It doesn't look like that is going to happen, however. Nor can she think who to approach to question those memories she relived in the storm.
REVIEWED on December 24, 2023 at Goodreads, AmazonSmile, Barens&Noble, BookBub, and Kobo.
February 6, 2019
Vortex
By Kimberly Packard
Rated 5 stars!!
Wow I really had to step away for a moment after finishing this book. My emotions were all over the place. In fact while reading I ran through some crazy feelings. This is an amazing book that has many front facing features. I assumed it was about storm chasers (which it is) but there are other sides that come forward that had me whirling around trying to figure them out. I loved the idea of this book. It’s about the ultimate thrill that is crazy and scary as heck. Not everyone can or should do it.
What did I love about this? Besides everything?? Here are some specifics. The way the author referred to clouds and tornadoes as a child in the womb and then being born. Taking its first wobbly step as it gains confidence. Crazy how that is so true! The t-shirts that the MC wears. Such attention to detail...I loved it. The relationships that were built, the MC was smart and knowledgeable with a side of sassy, and her dog!!! For Pete’s sake I almost forgot Nimbus! He is a wonderful side character!
I literally could not put this book down. It opens with a bang and keeps going all the way through. This is not my first Kimberly Packard book and it won’t be the last. She know how to weave a story and write strong yet comfortable characters. If you want a thrill ride with attachment to the characters? Pick this one up!
By Kimberly Packard
Rated 5 stars!!
Wow I really had to step away for a moment after finishing this book. My emotions were all over the place. In fact while reading I ran through some crazy feelings. This is an amazing book that has many front facing features. I assumed it was about storm chasers (which it is) but there are other sides that come forward that had me whirling around trying to figure them out. I loved the idea of this book. It’s about the ultimate thrill that is crazy and scary as heck. Not everyone can or should do it.
What did I love about this? Besides everything?? Here are some specifics. The way the author referred to clouds and tornadoes as a child in the womb and then being born. Taking its first wobbly step as it gains confidence. Crazy how that is so true! The t-shirts that the MC wears. Such attention to detail...I loved it. The relationships that were built, the MC was smart and knowledgeable with a side of sassy, and her dog!!! For Pete’s sake I almost forgot Nimbus! He is a wonderful side character!
I literally could not put this book down. It opens with a bang and keeps going all the way through. This is not my first Kimberly Packard book and it won’t be the last. She know how to weave a story and write strong yet comfortable characters. If you want a thrill ride with attachment to the characters? Pick this one up!
February 27, 2019
Vortex is a story about love, chasing storms by Kimberly Packard. I always enjoy the intriguing way this author can weave a story, keeping her audience captivated from start to finish. It requires particular talent to mesmirise readers, and Kimberly Packard has talent aplenty.
Elaina and Robert “Tuck” Tucker team up to chase dangerous storms. It is when she meets meteorologist, Seth Maddux, who is madly trying to resurrect his career, that sparks fly. This colourful collection of charismatic and entertaining characters provide endless flair and amusement, loving at its finest, and more thrills and spills than an adrenaline junkie could possibly dream of. Never lacking in content or good old enjoyment, Vortex was a fast paced, action filled drama that both impressed and satisfied my craving for a good story. 5 stars.
Elaina and Robert “Tuck” Tucker team up to chase dangerous storms. It is when she meets meteorologist, Seth Maddux, who is madly trying to resurrect his career, that sparks fly. This colourful collection of charismatic and entertaining characters provide endless flair and amusement, loving at its finest, and more thrills and spills than an adrenaline junkie could possibly dream of. Never lacking in content or good old enjoyment, Vortex was a fast paced, action filled drama that both impressed and satisfied my craving for a good story. 5 stars.
February 9, 2019
Vortex by Kimberly Packard
5 Stars
I think I've read almost all of this authors books and I love them all, this one might just be my favorite so far.
Storm chasers are always fascinating to me and although it scares me to death Im thankful we have those out there willing to risk their lives so that our advanced warning systems are in the places they are.
This was no different than the rest of this authors books with the easy flow of the writing and the unique storylines. I loved the “twist” in this story and that it caught me off guard and how it absolutely did not end up like I thought it would.
I can not wait for the next opportunity for me to read this author's work, and I also can not wait to be able to go back re read the ones I have.
Loved it!!
5 Stars
I think I've read almost all of this authors books and I love them all, this one might just be my favorite so far.
Storm chasers are always fascinating to me and although it scares me to death Im thankful we have those out there willing to risk their lives so that our advanced warning systems are in the places they are.
This was no different than the rest of this authors books with the easy flow of the writing and the unique storylines. I loved the “twist” in this story and that it caught me off guard and how it absolutely did not end up like I thought it would.
I can not wait for the next opportunity for me to read this author's work, and I also can not wait to be able to go back re read the ones I have.
Loved it!!
February 1, 2019
VORTEX BY KIMBERLY PACKARD
Four Stars
Nope I couldn’t do it. I would refuse to do it. I couldn’t imagine someone asking me to get close to a tornado or hurricane. I don’t understand the thrill people get from being in danger. Elaina must have had a death wish. She was too eager to go into the middle of a storm. I didn’t like the way they put Heath’s life on her. She didn’t deserve it. But people say and do a lot when they grieve. Elaina has a lot of emotional and mental baggage and it made her stronger and more stubborn. Seth did a lot of soul searching and found his calling. The author developed the characters just right and it made the ending bitter sweet.
Four Stars
Nope I couldn’t do it. I would refuse to do it. I couldn’t imagine someone asking me to get close to a tornado or hurricane. I don’t understand the thrill people get from being in danger. Elaina must have had a death wish. She was too eager to go into the middle of a storm. I didn’t like the way they put Heath’s life on her. She didn’t deserve it. But people say and do a lot when they grieve. Elaina has a lot of emotional and mental baggage and it made her stronger and more stubborn. Seth did a lot of soul searching and found his calling. The author developed the characters just right and it made the ending bitter sweet.
February 6, 2019
Vortex by Kimberly Packard is a book unlike any I had read before. The plot was different from most of the books I have read recently and that captures my attention and kept me hooked.
Part of what had me so fascinated with this book is that I just couldn’t imagine anything that would prompt me to do what Elaine does. And yet at the same time I felt like I was right there with her making those decisions, chasing all those storms.
This book takes you on such an emotional journey. It’s been a while since I had to “sit” for a while once finishing a book but this one I certainly had to. An absolutely brilliant read I couldn’t recommend this more.
Part of what had me so fascinated with this book is that I just couldn’t imagine anything that would prompt me to do what Elaine does. And yet at the same time I felt like I was right there with her making those decisions, chasing all those storms.
This book takes you on such an emotional journey. It’s been a while since I had to “sit” for a while once finishing a book but this one I certainly had to. An absolutely brilliant read I couldn’t recommend this more.
February 9, 2019
VORTEX starts like a popular movie about tornadoes. I was comparing and thinking the whole book was going to be this way, when, much like a tornado, it took a turn and shifted completely. This is absolutely its own high energy/unique story.
This is the story of relationships and following you dreams. It's very descriptive and multi layered. There are things that are not as they appear. It has some interesting movement along the way and held my attention.
The dog and his human's connection was so cool to see. I often wondered who was "talking" to who.
I recommend this story
This is the story of relationships and following you dreams. It's very descriptive and multi layered. There are things that are not as they appear. It has some interesting movement along the way and held my attention.
The dog and his human's connection was so cool to see. I often wondered who was "talking" to who.
I recommend this story
January 31, 2019
I loved this book! It is my favorite by this author yet! It is fast paced, creative and pulled me in right from the start. I loved how the creative characters made me feel as if I was right there in the story. This is a story of finding who you are, family and love. Elaina is a storm chaser and Seth is a meteorologist. What happens when they meet starts a twister of a journey that I couldn’t put down. I loved their chemistry and they made the story into what it is. A must read!
February 19, 2019
This was a great read. It had a lot of ups and downs besides tornadoes. Very engaging. Very twisting and overall a wonderful read
April 23, 2023
This was a great read, a tale that takes off like the tornadoes the heroine is chasing, twists you around all over the place and then spits you out the other side. Maybe more of a snatch and eat-on-the-run fast food diet than leisurely sit-down dine, and some people may want more side-dishes and lengthy marinading, but if you like a book that grabs you by the jugular and shakes you about a bit before releasing you, then this one will satisfy you. Atmospheric, tense, pressurised and claustrophobic, the story mirrors the weather systems that the heroine is studying.
The story isn’t faultless, Seth didn’t hang together as a believable character for me until halfway through and I’d have preferred a more redemptive end for Tuck and Elaina but that’s just personal taste. I guzzled this book down in as quick a time as I could manage, reaching for my kindle whenever people stopped talking to me.
Definitely a book to reach for if you want to shut your own world out for a few hours.
The story isn’t faultless, Seth didn’t hang together as a believable character for me until halfway through and I’d have preferred a more redemptive end for Tuck and Elaina but that’s just personal taste. I guzzled this book down in as quick a time as I could manage, reaching for my kindle whenever people stopped talking to me.
Definitely a book to reach for if you want to shut your own world out for a few hours.
March 5, 2019
This was definitely an action packed novel filled with imagery and and close calls with terrifying storms. The author did a fantastic job bringing her characters to life. Well developed and raw - I had to put it down a couple of times to absorb the content. Won’t ruin it for other readers - but be forewarned - life is not always easy when you are at the mercy of those storms, the internal and the external ones.
Four stars for too many loose ends and a couple typos.
Four stars for too many loose ends and a couple typos.
April 28, 2019
Pretty rough around the edges 2.5 stars
It kept my interest - the storm chasing and little bit of science was interesting. But jeez Elaina was needy, whiny, and selfish. Some plotlines are not wrapped up. The ending is too rushed. The romance was middle school stuff, and the psychologist was unethical (plus Packard doesn't really know anything about memory - needs to do some research). The ending pretty much sucked - a lot was left out that shouldn't have been.
It kept my interest - the storm chasing and little bit of science was interesting. But jeez Elaina was needy, whiny, and selfish. Some plotlines are not wrapped up. The ending is too rushed. The romance was middle school stuff, and the psychologist was unethical (plus Packard doesn't really know anything about memory - needs to do some research). The ending pretty much sucked - a lot was left out that shouldn't have been.
June 25, 2023
Really a 4.5
But they won’t let us do that, so I guess I just have to give it a 4 and be done with it. This is the story of a young woman who is a storm chaser and working on her doctorate. She’s also an adopted daughter in search of her past because she’s recently been experiencing flashbacks during the tornadoes she chases. There’s also a romantic subtext with another storm chaser which is nicely done but I would like to have seen more of it.
But they won’t let us do that, so I guess I just have to give it a 4 and be done with it. This is the story of a young woman who is a storm chaser and working on her doctorate. She’s also an adopted daughter in search of her past because she’s recently been experiencing flashbacks during the tornadoes she chases. There’s also a romantic subtext with another storm chaser which is nicely done but I would like to have seen more of it.
July 7, 2019
Intriguing
Good story, but the proofreader needs to do a better job. The author is done a disservice by some of the missed errors. I'd definitely read more of Kimberly Packard's books.
Good story, but the proofreader needs to do a better job. The author is done a disservice by some of the missed errors. I'd definitely read more of Kimberly Packard's books.
March 12, 2019
I loved this novel right from the start. It was a great mixture of romance and suspense which kept me hooked, not to mention the thrill of chasing tornadoes.
February 11, 2023
I love Kimberly's style of writing! She hooks me in and just keeps throwing more into the mixture!
March 11, 2021
Vortex by Kimberly Packard is jam packed with surprises. Just like a twister, Vortex shifts and twirls at lightning speed, and nobody is exempt from scrutiny and heartache. As doctoral candidates, Elaina and Heath, her best friend and academic partner, are putting the finishing touches on their dissertation on tornado genesis. Chasing a few more storms will give them that final data, but nature has other plans.
Vortex is more than a budding yet volatile romance between Elaina and Seth, a young newscaster chasing storms to salvage his career. In fact, for Elaina, that instant attraction is more of a distraction as she chases storms to gather data, comes face to face with the truth about her own genesis, and learns the hard way to appreciate her family and friends.
That is a lot for one person to handle, but Elaina is no ordinary woman. Armed with grit, determination, and a fierce love for her adorable rescue dog, Nimbus, Elaina faces these challenges head on. But can she escape the tornado's wrath and the cold hard facts about her past? Will she buckle under the pressure and bitterness of being deceived? Can she open her heart to those who will always remain true?
An interesting aspect in Vortex is memory rewriting through drug therapy for people dealing with fear-induced situations. No spoilers, so read Vortex for yourself to see how this particular concept plays out. The author has meticulously crafted a story that is interesting, exhilarating, and quite moving in all the right places.
The overall story is one of awakening, especially for Elaina as she grapples with murky memories about her past, but other characters are forced to own up to their deceptions and responsibilities as well. As the plot heats up and as tornado season wreaks its inevitable havoc, the well-developed characters begin jockeying for position in the story and in Elaina's life. With several electrifying moments, comedic situations, and tough decisions, Vortex is perfect for people who love a fast-paced book that grips their attention from start to finish. Add in a sweet yellow lab in a pink crash helmet, and you have one fabulous story.
Vortex is more than a budding yet volatile romance between Elaina and Seth, a young newscaster chasing storms to salvage his career. In fact, for Elaina, that instant attraction is more of a distraction as she chases storms to gather data, comes face to face with the truth about her own genesis, and learns the hard way to appreciate her family and friends.
That is a lot for one person to handle, but Elaina is no ordinary woman. Armed with grit, determination, and a fierce love for her adorable rescue dog, Nimbus, Elaina faces these challenges head on. But can she escape the tornado's wrath and the cold hard facts about her past? Will she buckle under the pressure and bitterness of being deceived? Can she open her heart to those who will always remain true?
An interesting aspect in Vortex is memory rewriting through drug therapy for people dealing with fear-induced situations. No spoilers, so read Vortex for yourself to see how this particular concept plays out. The author has meticulously crafted a story that is interesting, exhilarating, and quite moving in all the right places.
The overall story is one of awakening, especially for Elaina as she grapples with murky memories about her past, but other characters are forced to own up to their deceptions and responsibilities as well. As the plot heats up and as tornado season wreaks its inevitable havoc, the well-developed characters begin jockeying for position in the story and in Elaina's life. With several electrifying moments, comedic situations, and tough decisions, Vortex is perfect for people who love a fast-paced book that grips their attention from start to finish. Add in a sweet yellow lab in a pink crash helmet, and you have one fabulous story.
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