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Hollywood Heat #1
I'll Be Watching You
She can trust him with her heart, but can she trust him with her life?
Growing up as a foster kid, Jessica Jensen found her escape in movies-especially those starring teen heartthrob Reece Winchester. When she meets him as an adult, he's just as charming, fascinating, and devastatingly handsome as she'd imagined. Before she knows it, Jessica is falling hard. But her real-life Cinderella story is about to take a deadly turn...
Jessica has completely upended everything about Reece's carefully ordered life. There's a reason he's never allowed anyone to get so close to him before. But now that she has, there's a target on her back. Because someone knows that the Winchesters have been hiding some dark family secrets. Someone who is out there waiting to strike. Waiting...and always watching.
Previously published as Watching You
Growing up as a foster kid, Jessica Jensen found her escape in movies-especially those starring teen heartthrob Reece Winchester. When she meets him as an adult, he's just as charming, fascinating, and devastatingly handsome as she'd imagined. Before she knows it, Jessica is falling hard. But her real-life Cinderella story is about to take a deadly turn...
Jessica has completely upended everything about Reece's carefully ordered life. There's a reason he's never allowed anyone to get so close to him before. But now that she has, there's a target on her back. Because someone knows that the Winchesters have been hiding some dark family secrets. Someone who is out there waiting to strike. Waiting...and always watching.
Previously published as Watching You
400 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published March 13, 2018
28 people are currently reading
366 people want to read
About the author
Leslie A. Kelly
25 books120 followersLeslie A. Kelly is a New York Times Bestselling author of more than fifty novels in various genres. She writes contemporary romances--usually funny and sexy--as Leslie Kelly. The middle initial--A.--means a thrilling, dark suspense novel, like one of her Black CATs or Veronica Sloan titles.
She lives in Maryland with her husband and their daughters.
See also the following GoodReads author's profiles:
Leslie Kelly
Leslie A. Smith
Leslie Parrish
She lives in Maryland with her husband and their daughters.
See also the following GoodReads author's profiles:
Leslie Kelly
Leslie A. Smith
Leslie Parrish
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews
May 7, 2020
I’ll Be Watching You by Leslie A. Kelly is the first book in the romantic suspense Hollywood Heat series. This first of the series was actually first published in 2018 and is now being reprinted with an all new cover. And even though this is a series each of the books can be read on their own as with each book the main couple changes.
Jessica Jensen is an aspiring screenwriter who is currently helping her artist sister with her show when she meets Reece Winchester. As soon as Reece saw Jessica he knew that he had to meet her and Reece is the type who always gets what he wants. However, when these two do meet someone takes a shot at the room they are in and with both having secrets in their pasts Jessica and Reece aren’t sure who was the suspected target.
Well, I have to admit I got off to a rough, slow start with I’ll Be Watching You and wasn’t sure I would like it at all. In the beginning of this one I failed to find any romance or suspense to it and got a little worried however once the story took off a bit more I did find the rest a worthwhile read leaving me to give this one 3 1/2 stars overall.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
Jessica Jensen is an aspiring screenwriter who is currently helping her artist sister with her show when she meets Reece Winchester. As soon as Reece saw Jessica he knew that he had to meet her and Reece is the type who always gets what he wants. However, when these two do meet someone takes a shot at the room they are in and with both having secrets in their pasts Jessica and Reece aren’t sure who was the suspected target.
Well, I have to admit I got off to a rough, slow start with I’ll Be Watching You and wasn’t sure I would like it at all. In the beginning of this one I failed to find any romance or suspense to it and got a little worried however once the story took off a bit more I did find the rest a worthwhile read leaving me to give this one 3 1/2 stars overall.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
April 5, 2020
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Reece Winchester is an award winning director and when he spies a woman on a security camera feed, he's immediately drawn to her.
Jessica Jensen loves her sister and when she pops into an art gallery to pitch her sister's work and they agree to set-up a meeting, she is ecstatic. When Jess finds out that her sister's art show might all have been an elaborate plan orchestrated by Reece, she is wary but still drawn to him.
As these two try to build a future, their pasts are creeping in more and more.
“You feel it, too. I know you do,” he growled.
The first in the Hollywood Heat series, I'll Be Watching You, was full of intensity, plot threads, and shadowy characters. The beginning was gripping with Reece having his house burned down with arson suspected. The reader learns early that Reece was a popular childhood actor, along with his siblings. His older sister died from a possible suicide when she was sixteen and his twin brother Rowan and younger brother Raine work in law enforcement and security protection now. There is instantly a feeling of darkness and deep hidden secrets about this family's past. Some details are scattered through in the first half but important information is saved until the end, which I think helped keep the mysterious grim tone but also clogged the story with numerous red-herrings.
While Reece had a powerful enigmatic presence, Jess held her own in the story with her vibrancy. She has her own complicated background with losing both parents young, entering the foster care system, and eventually being adopted by a loving family that gave her a bestfriend and sister. Jess also has an ex-boyfriend that can't handle that they broke up and has been stalking her, more added danger to the story. Jess is in college, as an aspiring screen writer and gets an offer for an internship at Reece's production company. At this point, she has met him, learned of how he orchestrated it all after seeing her on a security camera, and massively distrusts him because of how the whole thing went down. She also has her college professor telling her not to trust Reece at all, which has her wondering why there is bad blood between Reece and the former director and now professor.
Reece Winchester didn't just want to keep her.
He loved her.
If you're keeping track, Jess has a stalker ex-boyfriend and a possible shady professor feeding her lies while Reece has a possible crazed fan that burnt down his house and mystery surrounding his sister's death, now let me add Reece's sister's ex-boyfriend who has possible bad blood with Reece and his brothers and Reece and Jess getting shot at and thinking it might be an employee Reece just fired. There are shady character red-herrings galore, probably too much. I think part of the issue is that this is a first in a series and some of these red-herrings and plot points are going to play out in preceding books that star Reece's brothers; their sister's death is the thread that is going to tie this series together. All of this pushed the romance to the sidelines too much for me. There are great glimpses at Jess and Reece's banter and chemistry but ultimately, their relationship felt more lusty and I didn't completely buy their love. Reece also more than toes the line with being too controlling, Jess calling him on it and Reece giving a pretty good apology for how he set-up their first meeting, saves this toeing a bit.
There are multiple povs that give the reader insight into characters and help add emotion to the atmosphere but there were also times where it felt like there were too many cooks in the kitchen. I couldn't completely believe in this couple's love but the story and writing was engrossing. If you like dirty secrets and revelations held close to the vest, I'll Be Watching You would be a good introduction to a series that looks to be full of such intrigue.
All because of the beautiful stranger he'd spied through a camera. One he would never have seen if not for the fire, pre-dawn flight, and his presence here in the gallery this morning, at the perfect moment.
He couldn't have planned the scene better if he'd tried.
It was as if it were meant to be.
Reece Winchester is an award winning director and when he spies a woman on a security camera feed, he's immediately drawn to her.
Jessica Jensen loves her sister and when she pops into an art gallery to pitch her sister's work and they agree to set-up a meeting, she is ecstatic. When Jess finds out that her sister's art show might all have been an elaborate plan orchestrated by Reece, she is wary but still drawn to him.
As these two try to build a future, their pasts are creeping in more and more.
“You feel it, too. I know you do,” he growled.
The first in the Hollywood Heat series, I'll Be Watching You, was full of intensity, plot threads, and shadowy characters. The beginning was gripping with Reece having his house burned down with arson suspected. The reader learns early that Reece was a popular childhood actor, along with his siblings. His older sister died from a possible suicide when she was sixteen and his twin brother Rowan and younger brother Raine work in law enforcement and security protection now. There is instantly a feeling of darkness and deep hidden secrets about this family's past. Some details are scattered through in the first half but important information is saved until the end, which I think helped keep the mysterious grim tone but also clogged the story with numerous red-herrings.
While Reece had a powerful enigmatic presence, Jess held her own in the story with her vibrancy. She has her own complicated background with losing both parents young, entering the foster care system, and eventually being adopted by a loving family that gave her a bestfriend and sister. Jess also has an ex-boyfriend that can't handle that they broke up and has been stalking her, more added danger to the story. Jess is in college, as an aspiring screen writer and gets an offer for an internship at Reece's production company. At this point, she has met him, learned of how he orchestrated it all after seeing her on a security camera, and massively distrusts him because of how the whole thing went down. She also has her college professor telling her not to trust Reece at all, which has her wondering why there is bad blood between Reece and the former director and now professor.
Reece Winchester didn't just want to keep her.
He loved her.
If you're keeping track, Jess has a stalker ex-boyfriend and a possible shady professor feeding her lies while Reece has a possible crazed fan that burnt down his house and mystery surrounding his sister's death, now let me add Reece's sister's ex-boyfriend who has possible bad blood with Reece and his brothers and Reece and Jess getting shot at and thinking it might be an employee Reece just fired. There are shady character red-herrings galore, probably too much. I think part of the issue is that this is a first in a series and some of these red-herrings and plot points are going to play out in preceding books that star Reece's brothers; their sister's death is the thread that is going to tie this series together. All of this pushed the romance to the sidelines too much for me. There are great glimpses at Jess and Reece's banter and chemistry but ultimately, their relationship felt more lusty and I didn't completely buy their love. Reece also more than toes the line with being too controlling, Jess calling him on it and Reece giving a pretty good apology for how he set-up their first meeting, saves this toeing a bit.
There are multiple povs that give the reader insight into characters and help add emotion to the atmosphere but there were also times where it felt like there were too many cooks in the kitchen. I couldn't completely believe in this couple's love but the story and writing was engrossing. If you like dirty secrets and revelations held close to the vest, I'll Be Watching You would be a good introduction to a series that looks to be full of such intrigue.
All because of the beautiful stranger he'd spied through a camera. One he would never have seen if not for the fire, pre-dawn flight, and his presence here in the gallery this morning, at the perfect moment.
He couldn't have planned the scene better if he'd tried.
It was as if it were meant to be.
March 23, 2020
Menacing, steamy, and alluring!
I’ll Be Watching You is a charged, passionate tale that takes you into the lives of two main characters. Jessica, an intelligent, young woman with a troubled past who seems to have become the target of a malicious killer, and Reece a Hollywood actor turned director with a checkered past of his own who’s determined to protect those he cares about at any cost.
The writing is crisp and sultry. The characters are secretive, committed, and resourceful. And the plot is a twisty, engaging mix of friendship, family, obsession, jealousy, instant attraction, smoking chemistry, smouldering tension, sexy times, and violence.
Overall, I’ll Be Watching You is an enticing, sensual, fast-paced tale by Kelly that has everything you look for in a romantic suspense novel and more.
Thank you to Forever & Grand Central Publishing for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
I’ll Be Watching You is a charged, passionate tale that takes you into the lives of two main characters. Jessica, an intelligent, young woman with a troubled past who seems to have become the target of a malicious killer, and Reece a Hollywood actor turned director with a checkered past of his own who’s determined to protect those he cares about at any cost.
The writing is crisp and sultry. The characters are secretive, committed, and resourceful. And the plot is a twisty, engaging mix of friendship, family, obsession, jealousy, instant attraction, smoking chemistry, smouldering tension, sexy times, and violence.
Overall, I’ll Be Watching You is an enticing, sensual, fast-paced tale by Kelly that has everything you look for in a romantic suspense novel and more.
Thank you to Forever & Grand Central Publishing for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
Read
March 27, 2018DNF at 30%
The hero stalks the heroine on security camera and then when they finally meet in person he is very aggressive and controlling - he was supposed to be dark and sexy but it made me feel yucky. I just really don't want to read about him for the rest of the book. He was too much "I like you so you must like me" - he never stopped to ask her what she wanted. It was way too forward and controlling.
The hero stalks the heroine on security camera and then when they finally meet in person he is very aggressive and controlling - he was supposed to be dark and sexy but it made me feel yucky. I just really don't want to read about him for the rest of the book. He was too much "I like you so you must like me" - he never stopped to ask her what she wanted. It was way too forward and controlling.
March 25, 2020
I'll Be Watching You is the first book in the romantic suspense Hollywood Heat series by Leslie A. Kelly. It's a bit over-the-top romance with an overbearing hero, insta-lust, and a lot of drama. It has a "famous actor falls in love with a regular girl" trope, so if you enjoy this trope, you may like this book. Overall, I enjoyed it, even though I didn't particularly love the hero and found insta-lust a little too much at times.
*Free copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
*Free copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
February 14, 2018
‘Watching You’ reads like the establishing book of a series that it is: there’s a big back story kept under lock and key for ages, loose hanging threads that don’t necessarily come together, multiple POVs that aren’t confined to the male/female protagonists and possibly a cliffhanger which no one’s fond of.
And it’s tricky business, I understand, because the first book always needs to get the narrative arc just right without compromising the romance while leaving too many loose ends. A little of the Cinderella story is also written into this by nature of the plot (top director with an unknown, aspiring screenwriter), though Leslie A. Kelly’s version of Hollywood is one that’s filled with backstabbing nasties, sudden danger, numerous characters with their own less-than-noble agendas and the putrid stink of catty insincerity.
The start was admittedly a hard one for me, and made me question the ‘legitimacy’ of the pairing, so to speak. I found it difficult to understand Reece’s sudden, inexplicable obsession over a woman whom he’d first seen through security cameras, let alone his setting up a first meeting in such a calculated way that it simply came out as creepy.
Love at first sight seemed a rather mild way of putting what felt like a stalkerish situation, given the manipulatively controlling manner that Reece used to manoeuvre Jessica into his planned seduction. I was mollified however, as the author acknowledged this misstep of his and then later rectified it with several twists in the story that sort of helped tilt my worldview upright again. Kudos as well, to a heroine who pushed back and called Reeces out for behaviour that can't and shouldn't be excused.
I found myself absorbed nonetheless, as the story came slowly (maybe a little too slowly) together. There were many loose, hanging threads, multiple POVs that came in later in the book, which merely expanded the puzzle that I thought would have started coming together by the three-quarter-mark of the story. What I also thought of as interlinked incidents turned out to be somewhat entirely separate issues and not tied together in the greater mystery of Reece’s shady past that Kelly had been constantly hinting at, and that was somewhat disconcerting given the build-up. It did however, come out as a flood of revelations at the end worthy of a Hollywood climax, though it shouldn’t have been too much of a shock considering what has been dominating the celebrity-world headlines in the past few months.
As the first book in the series, ‘Watching You’ is more than a decent read. There were parts I couldn’t totally get on board with, but there is a goodly amount of suspense, intrigue and mystery to keep me past my bedtime, and Kelly has sunk the 3 Winchester brothers deep enough in my book psyche for me to be wanting the rest of their stories.
*ARC by the publisher via Netgalley
And it’s tricky business, I understand, because the first book always needs to get the narrative arc just right without compromising the romance while leaving too many loose ends. A little of the Cinderella story is also written into this by nature of the plot (top director with an unknown, aspiring screenwriter), though Leslie A. Kelly’s version of Hollywood is one that’s filled with backstabbing nasties, sudden danger, numerous characters with their own less-than-noble agendas and the putrid stink of catty insincerity.
The start was admittedly a hard one for me, and made me question the ‘legitimacy’ of the pairing, so to speak. I found it difficult to understand Reece’s sudden, inexplicable obsession over a woman whom he’d first seen through security cameras, let alone his setting up a first meeting in such a calculated way that it simply came out as creepy.
Love at first sight seemed a rather mild way of putting what felt like a stalkerish situation, given the manipulatively controlling manner that Reece used to manoeuvre Jessica into his planned seduction. I was mollified however, as the author acknowledged this misstep of his and then later rectified it with several twists in the story that sort of helped tilt my worldview upright again. Kudos as well, to a heroine who pushed back and called Reeces out for behaviour that can't and shouldn't be excused.
I found myself absorbed nonetheless, as the story came slowly (maybe a little too slowly) together. There were many loose, hanging threads, multiple POVs that came in later in the book, which merely expanded the puzzle that I thought would have started coming together by the three-quarter-mark of the story. What I also thought of as interlinked incidents turned out to be somewhat entirely separate issues and not tied together in the greater mystery of Reece’s shady past that Kelly had been constantly hinting at, and that was somewhat disconcerting given the build-up. It did however, come out as a flood of revelations at the end worthy of a Hollywood climax, though it shouldn’t have been too much of a shock considering what has been dominating the celebrity-world headlines in the past few months.
As the first book in the series, ‘Watching You’ is more than a decent read. There were parts I couldn’t totally get on board with, but there is a goodly amount of suspense, intrigue and mystery to keep me past my bedtime, and Kelly has sunk the 3 Winchester brothers deep enough in my book psyche for me to be wanting the rest of their stories.
*ARC by the publisher via Netgalley
June 10, 2021
This reprint of
Watching You
by Leslie Kelly is the first book in the Hollywood Heat trilogy. What started out as a one-way crush becomes far more when Jessica Jensen finally meets the man of her dreams, heartthrob Reece Winchester, a Hollywoo icon. A one-night stand with the uber successful man becomes a season of secrets and danger. While it is more than evident that Reece quickly falls for Jessica, the baggage he brings into the relationship could destroy any chance of a happy future together.
In fact, Reece is the eldest brother of a Hollywood dynasty, and Reece, along with brothers Rowan and Raine have secrets that are soon to be unburied. No doubt these secrets will have a powerful impact on what could be a lasting relationship between Reece and Jessica.
Someone is aware of events of the past concerning the Winchester brothers and it just might be time to pay up. What secrets are the brothers hiding and how far will they go to keep them buried? Who is watching and how deep will the danger get, for the brother and now Jessicca as she has become part of their lives? Will Jessica be able to trust Reese completely and will she become a victim of the danger that is now facing her?
What a thrilling story! I loved this book by Leslie Kelly! I kept this print ARC on my shelf for nearly a year but boy am I glad I grabbed it and sat down and read it, which I did from cover to cover in one sitting. In fact, I also read Nowhere to Hide, previously titled Wanting You with the same vigor and zeal that I read this book. I am more than eager to read the third book in the series.
Many thanks to Forever and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
In fact, Reece is the eldest brother of a Hollywood dynasty, and Reece, along with brothers Rowan and Raine have secrets that are soon to be unburied. No doubt these secrets will have a powerful impact on what could be a lasting relationship between Reece and Jessica.
Someone is aware of events of the past concerning the Winchester brothers and it just might be time to pay up. What secrets are the brothers hiding and how far will they go to keep them buried? Who is watching and how deep will the danger get, for the brother and now Jessicca as she has become part of their lives? Will Jessica be able to trust Reese completely and will she become a victim of the danger that is now facing her?
What a thrilling story! I loved this book by Leslie Kelly! I kept this print ARC on my shelf for nearly a year but boy am I glad I grabbed it and sat down and read it, which I did from cover to cover in one sitting. In fact, I also read Nowhere to Hide, previously titled Wanting You with the same vigor and zeal that I read this book. I am more than eager to read the third book in the series.
Many thanks to Forever and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
March 13, 2018
Having read and enjoyed other books by Leslie Kelly, I was eager to start this new romantic suspense series. At times I did find the beginning of the story slow, but, that is often the case as an author tries to lay the foundation for a new series since they have to provide so much backstory. However, it wasn't long before I was sucked in wanting to know just who was the culprit. Although I will reveal that there is more than one mystery to be solved in this story so even if you figure out one culprit, keep reading there is more than meets the eye. Definitely looking forward to the next book because not everything was wrapped up in this book regarding the Winchester brothers.
March 31, 2020
*View my reviews at www.drinkreadrepeat.com*
Is there anyone who hasn't — at least at some point — had a Hollywood crush?
I remember my first-ever crush — not just of the Hollywood variety, but ever.
It was Brad Pitt.
Not Thelma and Louise Brad Pitt...
or even Legends if the Fall Brad Pitt.
Nope. The role that got my adolescent engine running was Brad Pitt from The Favor.
Never heard of that movie? I'm not surprised, because most people haven’t.
It was a relatively low budget, definitely inappropriate for a pre-teen, movie with which I had a passing obsession.
Even though I still wouldn’t kick Brad Pitt out of bed for eating crackers, my Hollywood crushing has since evolved. Now, my heart belongs to Colin Firth — and, of course, my husband… but mainly Colin Firth.
But even though my preferences have changed, my memory of this first ever crush — the first time I really understood the idea of being physically attracted to a guy — hasn’t faded.
And I certainly tapped into it as I read I’ll Be Watching You by Leslie A. Kelly, a re-release of a novel originally published in 2018 under the title Watching You.
Like most women, the first time Jessica Jensen lost her heart, it was to a teen heart throb.
But unlike too many teen stars, the apple of Jessica’s eye, Reece Winchester, didn’t spontaneously combust under the bright lights of stardom. Though his youth wasn’t without trauma — including the death of his older sister who was, herself, a child star — Reece managed to prevail. Decades after his rocket to fame, he still works in the industry, though now as a writer/director.
Like Reece’s youth, Jessica’s was also rich in struggle. She spent many of her formative years bouncing from foster home to foster home. Like most children stuck in the painful cycle of the system, she saw things she never should have seen and had experiences she would rather forget.
Fortunately for Jessica, she eventually found a forever home. And, grounded by this sense of belonging, has finally started working towards her own goal of becoming a Hollywood screenwriter.
Given their similarly tumultuous childhoods, perhaps it was some prescient knowledge of their shared history of struggle — and not the bouncy ponytail holding her stunning red hair in place and voluptuous young body, not well hidden in a sports bra and leggings — that draws Reece to Jessica when he first sees her through the feed of a security camera while visiting an art gallery that he financed for his aunt.
But whatever the attraction, the draw Reece feels to Jessica is strong. Stronger, probably, than the feelings Jessica developed for him when watching him on the big screen all those years ago.
Though time has changed many things, Jessica still feels a lingering attraction to Reece, so when he approaches her for the first time at a gallery event months after he first admired her from afar, she is taken aback to say the least.
Not only had she spent many an adolescent night dreaming about him, she finds that he’s even better in person.
He’s strong and confident and assured and chivalrous in a way few men are.
And that should be it.
They are made for each other.
Happily ever after.
Roll the credits.
But it won’t be that easy for Jessica and Reece.
Though their love may seem written in the stars, there are forces working against them, threatening not just their blossoming relationship but their very lives. Someone does not like the direction in which Jessica and Reece’s relationship is headed. And this someone will stop at nothing to break their union before it’s even fully formed.
Can their love — and, more importantly, Jessica and Reece themselves — survive?
Overall, this novel… made me feel really good.
Having never read anything by this author — who I have since learned is relatively prolific — and not being a frequent reader of the romantic suspense genre, I didn’t really know what to expect.
What I found, to my delight, was an engaging story with simple, clean characters and a surprisingly twisty plot.
As a whole, I’ll Be Watching You had the feel of 50 Shades of Gray, minus the chains-and-whips-excite-me parts.
Which I know will probably leave you thinking, "Well how can this be 50 Shades reminiscent with no red room of pain?"
For me, it was the dynamics between our love interests.
The wealthy, powerful, physically beautiful — slightly older — man who becomes infatuated, basically on sight, with a young, innocent, nubile lady who — while not completely helpless — is definitely prone to finding herself in situations from which she needs saving.
As a bonus, I really did care about these characters.
Kelly did a pretty exceptional job of building not just Jessica and Reece, but also her cast of secondary characters. She sustained her readers on a steady diet of new information about her characters, and their respective pasts, throughout the novel. In doing this, she effectively developed her characters without boring the audience with an unduly long introductory section.
This method of character development also allowed Kelly to continually increase the degree to which we cared about each of the characters. This made me feel like, as I read, I was falling in love with Reece and Jessica much in the same way they were falling in love with each other — organically, slowly, and then, suddenly, all at once.
When I grabbed this book off the shelf, I didn’t have any grand notion that it would be the perfect book to read right now. But, in the end, it turned out to be.
Ultimately I think reading a book like this against the backdrop of the COVID-19 lock down is oddly comforting — and not just because of the relatively graphic sex scenes that made quarantine a little less chilly.
In general I consider myself relatively feminist.
I don’t need you to pull out a chair for me.
I don't need you to open my car door.
I don't need you to lay your coat down over a puddle so I can step daintily across it.
But right now, like so many people, I feel really unsafe. And the prospect of some big strong strapping Hollywood man — who I for some reason pictured the entire time as Brad Pitt from “World War Z” — seems really appealing.
And, ultimately, my desire to be protected right now probably significantly enhanced my enjoyment of this book as a whole.
With a surprising depth of character development and an inarguably engaging plot, I’ll Be Watching You will capture readers’ attention and likely induce them to stay up past their bedtimes.
It earns 4 out of 5 cocktails.
Is there anyone who hasn't — at least at some point — had a Hollywood crush?
I remember my first-ever crush — not just of the Hollywood variety, but ever.
It was Brad Pitt.
Not Thelma and Louise Brad Pitt...
or even Legends if the Fall Brad Pitt.
Nope. The role that got my adolescent engine running was Brad Pitt from The Favor.
Never heard of that movie? I'm not surprised, because most people haven’t.
It was a relatively low budget, definitely inappropriate for a pre-teen, movie with which I had a passing obsession.
Even though I still wouldn’t kick Brad Pitt out of bed for eating crackers, my Hollywood crushing has since evolved. Now, my heart belongs to Colin Firth — and, of course, my husband… but mainly Colin Firth.
But even though my preferences have changed, my memory of this first ever crush — the first time I really understood the idea of being physically attracted to a guy — hasn’t faded.
And I certainly tapped into it as I read I’ll Be Watching You by Leslie A. Kelly, a re-release of a novel originally published in 2018 under the title Watching You.
Like most women, the first time Jessica Jensen lost her heart, it was to a teen heart throb.
But unlike too many teen stars, the apple of Jessica’s eye, Reece Winchester, didn’t spontaneously combust under the bright lights of stardom. Though his youth wasn’t without trauma — including the death of his older sister who was, herself, a child star — Reece managed to prevail. Decades after his rocket to fame, he still works in the industry, though now as a writer/director.
Like Reece’s youth, Jessica’s was also rich in struggle. She spent many of her formative years bouncing from foster home to foster home. Like most children stuck in the painful cycle of the system, she saw things she never should have seen and had experiences she would rather forget.
Fortunately for Jessica, she eventually found a forever home. And, grounded by this sense of belonging, has finally started working towards her own goal of becoming a Hollywood screenwriter.
Given their similarly tumultuous childhoods, perhaps it was some prescient knowledge of their shared history of struggle — and not the bouncy ponytail holding her stunning red hair in place and voluptuous young body, not well hidden in a sports bra and leggings — that draws Reece to Jessica when he first sees her through the feed of a security camera while visiting an art gallery that he financed for his aunt.
But whatever the attraction, the draw Reece feels to Jessica is strong. Stronger, probably, than the feelings Jessica developed for him when watching him on the big screen all those years ago.
Though time has changed many things, Jessica still feels a lingering attraction to Reece, so when he approaches her for the first time at a gallery event months after he first admired her from afar, she is taken aback to say the least.
Not only had she spent many an adolescent night dreaming about him, she finds that he’s even better in person.
He’s strong and confident and assured and chivalrous in a way few men are.
And that should be it.
They are made for each other.
Happily ever after.
Roll the credits.
But it won’t be that easy for Jessica and Reece.
Though their love may seem written in the stars, there are forces working against them, threatening not just their blossoming relationship but their very lives. Someone does not like the direction in which Jessica and Reece’s relationship is headed. And this someone will stop at nothing to break their union before it’s even fully formed.
Can their love — and, more importantly, Jessica and Reece themselves — survive?
Overall, this novel… made me feel really good.
Having never read anything by this author — who I have since learned is relatively prolific — and not being a frequent reader of the romantic suspense genre, I didn’t really know what to expect.
What I found, to my delight, was an engaging story with simple, clean characters and a surprisingly twisty plot.
As a whole, I’ll Be Watching You had the feel of 50 Shades of Gray, minus the chains-and-whips-excite-me parts.
Which I know will probably leave you thinking, "Well how can this be 50 Shades reminiscent with no red room of pain?"
For me, it was the dynamics between our love interests.
The wealthy, powerful, physically beautiful — slightly older — man who becomes infatuated, basically on sight, with a young, innocent, nubile lady who — while not completely helpless — is definitely prone to finding herself in situations from which she needs saving.
As a bonus, I really did care about these characters.
Kelly did a pretty exceptional job of building not just Jessica and Reece, but also her cast of secondary characters. She sustained her readers on a steady diet of new information about her characters, and their respective pasts, throughout the novel. In doing this, she effectively developed her characters without boring the audience with an unduly long introductory section.
This method of character development also allowed Kelly to continually increase the degree to which we cared about each of the characters. This made me feel like, as I read, I was falling in love with Reece and Jessica much in the same way they were falling in love with each other — organically, slowly, and then, suddenly, all at once.
When I grabbed this book off the shelf, I didn’t have any grand notion that it would be the perfect book to read right now. But, in the end, it turned out to be.
Ultimately I think reading a book like this against the backdrop of the COVID-19 lock down is oddly comforting — and not just because of the relatively graphic sex scenes that made quarantine a little less chilly.
In general I consider myself relatively feminist.
I don’t need you to pull out a chair for me.
I don't need you to open my car door.
I don't need you to lay your coat down over a puddle so I can step daintily across it.
But right now, like so many people, I feel really unsafe. And the prospect of some big strong strapping Hollywood man — who I for some reason pictured the entire time as Brad Pitt from “World War Z” — seems really appealing.
And, ultimately, my desire to be protected right now probably significantly enhanced my enjoyment of this book as a whole.
With a surprising depth of character development and an inarguably engaging plot, I’ll Be Watching You will capture readers’ attention and likely induce them to stay up past their bedtimes.
It earns 4 out of 5 cocktails.
March 13, 2018
Watching You, (Hollywood Heat 1), Leslie A. Kelly
Review from Jeannie Zelos book reviews
Genre: Romance
My first read by this author, so I didn't know her writing style. It proved to be a fun read and one I enjoyed but...there were a few things that made it fall short of a five star read for me.
The way Reece obsesses about Jessica after only viewing her from a security camera and then sets up their meeting, weird. Then when he gets her alone knowing what he does about the room...well, it made me feel uncomfortable about him and full marks for Jessica for being strong enough to stand up to him, to call him out on his actions. It made him look again at what has become almost an unnoticed habit, viewing real life and acting as though he's filming all the while and he does apologise. It was a bit weird though.
I wasn't convinced of the romance between them, they didn't really have enough interactions in the book for me to feel it developing, she was interning and working with him, but most of that was related “off book” so to speak and meant I didn't get that build up from initial attraction and lust to real feelings and love.
Then there's the mystery....s. It was hard working out was was connected and what wasn't, whether there was one person doing multiple things or multiple people doing one or more events. Confusing and given the length of the book ( fairly average at 4500 kindle locations) it meant there was a lot of characters and detailed that didn't really get explained properly. I did wonder as I approached the end whether all the incidences would tie up or if they would carry over into the next book, because time was running out. As it happens they did all tie up but in a way that was far to brief, lacked real detail for me. It felt a bit rushed.
It's billed as romantic suspense, but for me the romance side fell a bit short, though I did love the Hollywood B itches – I love characters like that, and the suspense angle was overly complicated. I felt like people were put in place purely to throw in another possible suspect when the story didn't need it and the time and words would have been better spent on fleshing out more the romance and the story-line as it was without them. ( Johnny, Alan, Steve for example, who all had stories that gave them plausible reasons to be connected to events, but which I felt were just muddying the waters rather than adding to the story overall)
Its a good start though to a trilogy and as we now know the brothers back story the next books will at least not need to repeat that, and be able to concentrate on more current events.
Stars: Three, I liked parts but felt others made things feel overdone.
ARC supplied for review purposes by Netgalley and Publishers
Review from Jeannie Zelos book reviews
Genre: Romance
My first read by this author, so I didn't know her writing style. It proved to be a fun read and one I enjoyed but...there were a few things that made it fall short of a five star read for me.
The way Reece obsesses about Jessica after only viewing her from a security camera and then sets up their meeting, weird. Then when he gets her alone knowing what he does about the room...well, it made me feel uncomfortable about him and full marks for Jessica for being strong enough to stand up to him, to call him out on his actions. It made him look again at what has become almost an unnoticed habit, viewing real life and acting as though he's filming all the while and he does apologise. It was a bit weird though.
I wasn't convinced of the romance between them, they didn't really have enough interactions in the book for me to feel it developing, she was interning and working with him, but most of that was related “off book” so to speak and meant I didn't get that build up from initial attraction and lust to real feelings and love.
Then there's the mystery....s. It was hard working out was was connected and what wasn't, whether there was one person doing multiple things or multiple people doing one or more events. Confusing and given the length of the book ( fairly average at 4500 kindle locations) it meant there was a lot of characters and detailed that didn't really get explained properly. I did wonder as I approached the end whether all the incidences would tie up or if they would carry over into the next book, because time was running out. As it happens they did all tie up but in a way that was far to brief, lacked real detail for me. It felt a bit rushed.
It's billed as romantic suspense, but for me the romance side fell a bit short, though I did love the Hollywood B itches – I love characters like that, and the suspense angle was overly complicated. I felt like people were put in place purely to throw in another possible suspect when the story didn't need it and the time and words would have been better spent on fleshing out more the romance and the story-line as it was without them. ( Johnny, Alan, Steve for example, who all had stories that gave them plausible reasons to be connected to events, but which I felt were just muddying the waters rather than adding to the story overall)
Its a good start though to a trilogy and as we now know the brothers back story the next books will at least not need to repeat that, and be able to concentrate on more current events.
Stars: Three, I liked parts but felt others made things feel overdone.
ARC supplied for review purposes by Netgalley and Publishers
April 19, 2018
Received in exchange for a honest review.
The book overall was good and I do look forward to the next brother’s book.
Jessica and Reece are interesting characters. Jessica is a sassy, smart and very independent girl. She is trying to become a screenwriter and has had a hard knocks life to this point. When her professor tells her she has Reece Winchester wanting to have her intern at his company she is elated but also wary. These two had one very intense night and she questions if this is influencing him. She goes to the meeting and takes on more than she thought with the internship.
Reece is a guy who cares for his family but also holds dark secrets. Secrets that protect his family. Once you get used to this you see he is a great guy just very in his own head but his brothers and Jessica help him with this.His life hasn’t really been as cushy as many believe. We see that with how the book begins and how his world goes forth throughout the book. He is very forthcoming with his opinions but he does stage things like a movie in his head. This does get him in trouble with Jessica because for her it feels staged how things happen. He works hard to get her to see the real him which is definitely hidden in many layers. From their first moment together, danger is in the air. It is a wonder though who is the cause for all the danger surrounding them-Reece’s past or hers?
The plot has many balls in the air. You have Jessica and Reece’s story. The backstory of Reece’s sister and how he ended up as a director when he loves acting as well. THe story of his brothers and their past. Reece’s secrets all tie into the other plots mentions. Jessica’s past. Her professor’s past and how it ties into Reece and her. Her internship. The art gallery shooting. And Reece’s sister’s death and how it ties into who is causing mayhem in Reece’s life. Eventually they all tie together but when you first begin your head does spin with all the different subplots going on. Once you get used to them all running at the same time, you really get into the story and are drawn in by the intrigue of it all and the chemistry between Reece and Jessica. YOu see her help to change Reece for the better because he begins to see others not as people in his picture of life as a movie plot but as actual people and that he can’t plan everything the way he wants and get it that way. He once again learns life is messy and can’t be controlled. When he tells Jess his secrets you see he has found someone that cares and is there for him no matter what. Someone who loves him and is his support system. He opens up with her and that is unusual for him.She finds the same in Reece. they are stronger together than apart. And his brothers are great as well. They are just as mysterious as Reece and can’t wait to see where that goes. A wonderful story that is intriguing with characters you like but be forewarned it does take a bit to get used to all the plots in the air but they do tie together nicely and have you excited for more.
The book overall was good and I do look forward to the next brother’s book.
Jessica and Reece are interesting characters. Jessica is a sassy, smart and very independent girl. She is trying to become a screenwriter and has had a hard knocks life to this point. When her professor tells her she has Reece Winchester wanting to have her intern at his company she is elated but also wary. These two had one very intense night and she questions if this is influencing him. She goes to the meeting and takes on more than she thought with the internship.
Reece is a guy who cares for his family but also holds dark secrets. Secrets that protect his family. Once you get used to this you see he is a great guy just very in his own head but his brothers and Jessica help him with this.His life hasn’t really been as cushy as many believe. We see that with how the book begins and how his world goes forth throughout the book. He is very forthcoming with his opinions but he does stage things like a movie in his head. This does get him in trouble with Jessica because for her it feels staged how things happen. He works hard to get her to see the real him which is definitely hidden in many layers. From their first moment together, danger is in the air. It is a wonder though who is the cause for all the danger surrounding them-Reece’s past or hers?
The plot has many balls in the air. You have Jessica and Reece’s story. The backstory of Reece’s sister and how he ended up as a director when he loves acting as well. THe story of his brothers and their past. Reece’s secrets all tie into the other plots mentions. Jessica’s past. Her professor’s past and how it ties into Reece and her. Her internship. The art gallery shooting. And Reece’s sister’s death and how it ties into who is causing mayhem in Reece’s life. Eventually they all tie together but when you first begin your head does spin with all the different subplots going on. Once you get used to them all running at the same time, you really get into the story and are drawn in by the intrigue of it all and the chemistry between Reece and Jessica. YOu see her help to change Reece for the better because he begins to see others not as people in his picture of life as a movie plot but as actual people and that he can’t plan everything the way he wants and get it that way. He once again learns life is messy and can’t be controlled. When he tells Jess his secrets you see he has found someone that cares and is there for him no matter what. Someone who loves him and is his support system. He opens up with her and that is unusual for him.She finds the same in Reece. they are stronger together than apart. And his brothers are great as well. They are just as mysterious as Reece and can’t wait to see where that goes. A wonderful story that is intriguing with characters you like but be forewarned it does take a bit to get used to all the plots in the air but they do tie together nicely and have you excited for more.
March 11, 2018
Watching You by Leslie A. Kelly
Hollywood Heat #1
Truly enjoyable story that captured my interest immediately and held it throughout – superb writing – great plot – wonderful characters – can’t wait for book two –
Jessica Jensen aspires to make it big in movies as a screenwriter. She works hard, is talented, pretty and also a very good person. Her life has been difficult but she won the lottery when adopted by Liza’s family. Liza and she are tight as sisters and BFFs. When Jessica promotes Liza’s art to Reece Winchester’s Aunt Sharon she has no idea he sees and wants her. Reese Winchester is a man of Hollywood. As a child star in a family of stars he has seen much and has secrets. When they finally meet there is hot immediate chemistry. Their interlude is rudely interrupted by a window shattering and that is just the beginning of the bad things that seem to dog them. With one thing after another happening it is not an easy road to a HEA for the two of them…not at all…but it is an action-packed read that kept me turning pages to find out what would happen next. Reece and Jessica made a great couple and I loved their dialogue that had her stating exactly what she thought without being star struck or fearful of saying what she was thinking. And Reece…great guy and great book boyfriend!
This story introduced me to a new author – one I want to read work by again. I enjoyed this story and look forward to reading the other two books in the series. I would like to thank NetGalley and Grand Central Publishing-Forever Yours for the ARC – This is my honest review.
4-5 Stars
Hollywood Heat #1
Truly enjoyable story that captured my interest immediately and held it throughout – superb writing – great plot – wonderful characters – can’t wait for book two –
Jessica Jensen aspires to make it big in movies as a screenwriter. She works hard, is talented, pretty and also a very good person. Her life has been difficult but she won the lottery when adopted by Liza’s family. Liza and she are tight as sisters and BFFs. When Jessica promotes Liza’s art to Reece Winchester’s Aunt Sharon she has no idea he sees and wants her. Reese Winchester is a man of Hollywood. As a child star in a family of stars he has seen much and has secrets. When they finally meet there is hot immediate chemistry. Their interlude is rudely interrupted by a window shattering and that is just the beginning of the bad things that seem to dog them. With one thing after another happening it is not an easy road to a HEA for the two of them…not at all…but it is an action-packed read that kept me turning pages to find out what would happen next. Reece and Jessica made a great couple and I loved their dialogue that had her stating exactly what she thought without being star struck or fearful of saying what she was thinking. And Reece…great guy and great book boyfriend!
This story introduced me to a new author – one I want to read work by again. I enjoyed this story and look forward to reading the other two books in the series. I would like to thank NetGalley and Grand Central Publishing-Forever Yours for the ARC – This is my honest review.
4-5 Stars
May 23, 2020
I wanted to like this more. The thriller elements were good, there was a real sense of driving suspense and overall the prose did what I needed it to.
But there was too much of a power imbalance between Reece and Jessica. If she'd just had a crush on him growing up I might have been able to make it work, but then he creepily watched her, set up this involved way for them to meet, and eventually became her boss. And he never really lets her make the choice about whether they should be together, no matter how much he claimed to want to. There were other issues and some other positives but ultimately there's no coming back from that. 2.5 stars.
But there was too much of a power imbalance between Reece and Jessica. If she'd just had a crush on him growing up I might have been able to make it work, but then he creepily watched her, set up this involved way for them to meet, and eventually became her boss. And he never really lets her make the choice about whether they should be together, no matter how much he claimed to want to. There were other issues and some other positives but ultimately there's no coming back from that. 2.5 stars.
November 24, 2021
Too many plot lines going on at once. Not enough character growth / depth for me.
April 21, 2020
Book #24 of 2020 • I'll Be Watching You by Leslie A. Kelly • Finished 04/05/20
Increasing the amount of books I read has taught me about myself as a reader • One of the things I've learned is that to truly enjoy a book, I need one character I have a strong like for • Unfortunately for me, the characters in I'll Be Watching You drove me bonkers • The main characters especially - Jessica earns herself a spot with Bella from Twilight and Ana from 50 Shades for making me cringe with her choices and personality while Reece can take his stalkerish, alpha male self and get lost
A romantic thriller, I'll Be Watching You checks all the genre boxes • Chemistry fueled couple, steamy scenes for the romance and keep you guessing scenes for the thriller, villains lurking around the corner, dark secrets hanging over the characters' heads • But when I'm wishing the main characters would just disappear, it makes it hard to appreciate the story
Increasing the amount of books I read has taught me about myself as a reader • One of the things I've learned is that to truly enjoy a book, I need one character I have a strong like for • Unfortunately for me, the characters in I'll Be Watching You drove me bonkers • The main characters especially - Jessica earns herself a spot with Bella from Twilight and Ana from 50 Shades for making me cringe with her choices and personality while Reece can take his stalkerish, alpha male self and get lost
A romantic thriller, I'll Be Watching You checks all the genre boxes • Chemistry fueled couple, steamy scenes for the romance and keep you guessing scenes for the thriller, villains lurking around the corner, dark secrets hanging over the characters' heads • But when I'm wishing the main characters would just disappear, it makes it hard to appreciate the story
September 18, 2018
Lots of mystery
I started this series backwards, reading the second book first, but there weren't too many spoilers, so it was ok. This one is about Reece and Jessica. He's a Hollywood producer/director, former child star with a lot of secrets from his past. She's an aspiring screen writer with a really big heart. It's the story of their romance, but there's lots of mystery and suspense, which is my favorite kind of book!! I enjoy the writing style of Leslie A. Kelly having already read a couple of her other series, so it's no surprise that I liked this book as well. She's really good at creating the mystery part of the story and keeps me guessing on "whodunit". Her characters are well developed and I like them all. I can't wait for the third and final book in this series to come out!!!
I started this series backwards, reading the second book first, but there weren't too many spoilers, so it was ok. This one is about Reece and Jessica. He's a Hollywood producer/director, former child star with a lot of secrets from his past. She's an aspiring screen writer with a really big heart. It's the story of their romance, but there's lots of mystery and suspense, which is my favorite kind of book!! I enjoy the writing style of Leslie A. Kelly having already read a couple of her other series, so it's no surprise that I liked this book as well. She's really good at creating the mystery part of the story and keeps me guessing on "whodunit". Her characters are well developed and I like them all. I can't wait for the third and final book in this series to come out!!!
August 7, 2018
What a gem of a book Leslie is another new author to me and I really really enjoyed her book and will be adding more from her to my tbr list. I really liked both Reece and Jessica the chemistry between them was off the charts hot and the ploy well I thought I had figured it out then bam I was not even close a must read for all fans of romantic- suspense books.
March 13, 2018
A red headed woman jogging in the beach and the entering the gallery caught Reece’s attention. Reece’s Aunt Sharon had no idea who she was Sharon checked with Sid and the girl was trying to help sister have a profession show of her sculptures.. Jessica was the redhead and her adopted sister was Liza. Jess’s mom had died when she was nine and she went into the system and luckily eventually she was adopted by Liza’s family. Sharon looked at the pictures of Liza’s work and thought they were really good. Reese was a famous film director. He had backed Sharon in the gallery and was a silent partner but Sharon had an eye for good work but Reece and his brothers would do anything for their Aunt Sharon. Sharon had helped raise the brothers after their mother had been committed. Liza was the person Jess cared most about in this world. Jess had not dated anyone in a long time as her last relationship hadn’t ended very well.her ex Johnny had been unhinged and stalked Jessica.But it had been quiet for two months. Jess was still in college as she had to go part time at “ Hot buns” and worked at bar Reece had been in New Mexico when he got a call from his brother Rowan who was a cop that his house had been burnt down and the fire inspector said it was arson. Luckily he had given the Scots who worked for him two weeks off and his brother had his dog. Reece flew back and then Reece wanted to go see his aunt. Reece had abad stalker who had found out where he lived and had been leaving notes for him in his security gate. Reece and Rowan were twins and had a younger brother Raine who owned a security business they protected young stars. Rowan asked Reece if he thought they were charmed and reese said not to say that. The brothers had a rough past and Rowan did a better job moving beyond the dark episodes of the past then Reece. Reece was a man of long vision not the quick immediate scene. Jess’s dream was to be an academy award winning original screenwriter. Then there was the show for Liza at the Gallery Jess could feel someone watching her and it had been Reece. He finally came up behind her and talked to her and offered to show her the piece he had already bought of Liza’s art but it was upstairs. Jess did go upstairs with Reece and the piece was a nude sculpture as that is what Liza did and it was Jess pleasuring herself except Jess would only let her use her from the neck down as her model. But Reece had instantly knew it was Jess. Reece had inspired dreams and fantasies through out Jess’s teen years when she used going to the movies to get away from the foster house she was in until she got adopted by Liza’s family. Being Reece Winchester's unfiltered interest was a feeling unlike any Jess had experienced before. There was something magnetic about this man. Jess had been the object of reese.s object of fascination for two months since seeing her jogging. When Reece and Jess were upstairs close to having sex Sid brought a photographer up but Reece handled it and had Sid fired. Then Jess realized there was a security camera in the room and she had seen Reece look at it, Jess was furious and felt Reece was no better than Sid the pervert. Reece tried to tell Jess he was going to have the camera erased as soon as he could. Jess wouldn’t listen then a shot came through the large glass window Reece covered Jess with his own body and all he cared about was protecting Jess and her safety.
I absolutely loved this book. It was a great read with everything you could want in it as far as i am concerned. I loved the plot and the pace. I loved how Reece and his brothers were so close and always there for each other no matter what. This caught my interest from the beginning to the end. I loved the drama and mystery and danger in this book. I could find nothing to criticize in this book. I loved Reece and Jess together. .I loved the characters and the twists and turns in this book and I highly recommend.
I absolutely loved this book. It was a great read with everything you could want in it as far as i am concerned. I loved the plot and the pace. I loved how Reece and his brothers were so close and always there for each other no matter what. This caught my interest from the beginning to the end. I loved the drama and mystery and danger in this book. I could find nothing to criticize in this book. I loved Reece and Jess together. .I loved the characters and the twists and turns in this book and I highly recommend.
March 10, 2018
The first book in Hollywood Heat Series, Watching You, is another great read from my favourite romantic suspense author Leslie Kelly!
It’s a playful twist star-struck attraction in this novel. This time, it’s the former movie-star turned director Reece who feels an instant attraction to the average-looking, sweaty, red-headed jogger visiting his Aunt’s art gallery. But Jessica Jensen is not about to follow the script Reece has planned. To top things off, someone keeps taking attempts at their lives – but who is the target Jessica or Reece? Who is the villain? Is it a business rival, Jessica’s ex or one of Reece’s jealous and obsessed fans?
I’ll admit it, right away my emotions were on edge as I initially hated Reece for what seemed to be his arrogant and controlling personality. I felt equally ashamed for Jessica, who came across as weak and submissive. They were such intense feelings, and for that, Leslie should be commended for her strong character development. I found myself wanting to read more and more needing to understand these characters. By the second chapter I had already “forgiven” the characters for their faux pas and perhaps understood the reason(s) driving their behaviour.
I’ve always enjoyed Leslie’s use of voice in all her novels. The dialogue flows easily and always proves realistic to her characters. Leslie’s sense of humour is what initially drew me to her writing and once again, she didn’t disappoint. Jessica’s sarcasm provides for much comic relief throughout the story, particularly in contrast to Reece’s more controlled and calculated persona. Playful banter between the Winchester brothers seemed genuine and familiar and provides a good setup for the next novels in this series.
I related to Jessica’s no-bull attitude and inner struggle to prove her place in the world despite a hard upbringing. Throughout the novel Leslie was able to draw upon both the direct contrasts in lifestyles of the rich and famous to the pay cheque to pay cheque life of Jessica, while exposing mutual similarities and vulnerabilities. I was reeled in and engaged as I followed along with real-life situations, actions and outcomes. Leslie’s influences from and references to current pop culture only emphasized her strong wit and sarcasm. Needless to say, I read it quickly.
If you haven’t read a Leslie Kelly novel, you’re missing out!
5 stars all the way!
It’s a playful twist star-struck attraction in this novel. This time, it’s the former movie-star turned director Reece who feels an instant attraction to the average-looking, sweaty, red-headed jogger visiting his Aunt’s art gallery. But Jessica Jensen is not about to follow the script Reece has planned. To top things off, someone keeps taking attempts at their lives – but who is the target Jessica or Reece? Who is the villain? Is it a business rival, Jessica’s ex or one of Reece’s jealous and obsessed fans?
I’ll admit it, right away my emotions were on edge as I initially hated Reece for what seemed to be his arrogant and controlling personality. I felt equally ashamed for Jessica, who came across as weak and submissive. They were such intense feelings, and for that, Leslie should be commended for her strong character development. I found myself wanting to read more and more needing to understand these characters. By the second chapter I had already “forgiven” the characters for their faux pas and perhaps understood the reason(s) driving their behaviour.
I’ve always enjoyed Leslie’s use of voice in all her novels. The dialogue flows easily and always proves realistic to her characters. Leslie’s sense of humour is what initially drew me to her writing and once again, she didn’t disappoint. Jessica’s sarcasm provides for much comic relief throughout the story, particularly in contrast to Reece’s more controlled and calculated persona. Playful banter between the Winchester brothers seemed genuine and familiar and provides a good setup for the next novels in this series.
I related to Jessica’s no-bull attitude and inner struggle to prove her place in the world despite a hard upbringing. Throughout the novel Leslie was able to draw upon both the direct contrasts in lifestyles of the rich and famous to the pay cheque to pay cheque life of Jessica, while exposing mutual similarities and vulnerabilities. I was reeled in and engaged as I followed along with real-life situations, actions and outcomes. Leslie’s influences from and references to current pop culture only emphasized her strong wit and sarcasm. Needless to say, I read it quickly.
If you haven’t read a Leslie Kelly novel, you’re missing out!
5 stars all the way!
April 5, 2018
Great new series. Leslie A Kelly has a gift for romantic suspense and great characters with chemistry off the charts.
Reece Winchester is the eldest of the three brothers. They are all Hollywood royalty, until one night everything fell apart. Reece returns to Hollywood for retribution. He’s a big-name actor who decided to go behind the camera and makes an even bigger name for himself. The Winchesters have lots of secrets and it all revolves around the death of their sister Rachel. Rachel died at the young age of 16. I am going to be a little vague with all the intricacies, because, as you know, Ms. Kelly builds layers upon layers leading up to the big reveal. While this reveal will appear at the end of the book, there are more webs to untangle which will lead into the next book in the series. This does not end on a cliffhanger, just more questions that need answers to. The Winchester boys, even though they were Hollywood stars, didn’t actually lead a wonderful life – quite the contrary. There is so much baggage they carry around, I feel tired for them.
Reece’s Aunt Sharon runs an art gallery. Reece happens to visit his aunt (he’s a silent partner) and notices a young woman jog in off the beach and he likes what he sees. I’d call it lust at first sight. He finds out what she was talking about to the manager of the gallery and puts a plan into place to see her again. Lucky for Jessica Jensen, her sister is an artist and Liz manages to get her art displayed in the gallery. When Jessica meets Reece, she’s full-on fangirl. She’s going to school to be a screenwriter and she watched Reece on the big screen. Jess is blown away that Reece is even interested in her. Liz sculpts, and there is one of her sculptures up for sale that Jessica posed for – with Reece’s eye for detail, he knows the subject is Jess and he knows what he wants.
Bad things have been happening to Reece. Someone burned his house down. While he was trying to woo Jessica, someone shot at him through the gallery window. He has a target on his back and now Jessica has one too. The buildup of their relationship it slow and hot. I love every single conversation they have. Both are gun shy because they have some things in common. Once they open up and trust each other, the relationship grows into something pretty damn amazing. I love that the author really delves deep into both characters.
Things come crashing down after Jessica is assaulted at an award ceremony she attends with Reece, and then it’s non-stop action with lots of big answers and a whole slew of other questions left unanswered. Ms. Kelly really outdoes herself with the start of this series. I am so excited for Rowan’s book (the ex-actor turned cop) not only because his page time is intriguing, but I can’t wait to see how things unfold. The brothers’ backstory is heartbreaking, Jessica’s is as well. Yet you have two people overcoming all the heartbreak and obstacles thrown in their path and come out on the other side a bit battered but so very strong. Ms. Kelly does suspense very well. She has a knack for interesting characters, and the start to this series does not disappoint. I can’t wait until July for the next one! Non-stop action with a whole lot of sexy. If you have never read any books by Leslie Kelly, you will love this book. Then sit back and prepare yourself for her backlist.
Reece Winchester is the eldest of the three brothers. They are all Hollywood royalty, until one night everything fell apart. Reece returns to Hollywood for retribution. He’s a big-name actor who decided to go behind the camera and makes an even bigger name for himself. The Winchesters have lots of secrets and it all revolves around the death of their sister Rachel. Rachel died at the young age of 16. I am going to be a little vague with all the intricacies, because, as you know, Ms. Kelly builds layers upon layers leading up to the big reveal. While this reveal will appear at the end of the book, there are more webs to untangle which will lead into the next book in the series. This does not end on a cliffhanger, just more questions that need answers to. The Winchester boys, even though they were Hollywood stars, didn’t actually lead a wonderful life – quite the contrary. There is so much baggage they carry around, I feel tired for them.
Reece’s Aunt Sharon runs an art gallery. Reece happens to visit his aunt (he’s a silent partner) and notices a young woman jog in off the beach and he likes what he sees. I’d call it lust at first sight. He finds out what she was talking about to the manager of the gallery and puts a plan into place to see her again. Lucky for Jessica Jensen, her sister is an artist and Liz manages to get her art displayed in the gallery. When Jessica meets Reece, she’s full-on fangirl. She’s going to school to be a screenwriter and she watched Reece on the big screen. Jess is blown away that Reece is even interested in her. Liz sculpts, and there is one of her sculptures up for sale that Jessica posed for – with Reece’s eye for detail, he knows the subject is Jess and he knows what he wants.
Bad things have been happening to Reece. Someone burned his house down. While he was trying to woo Jessica, someone shot at him through the gallery window. He has a target on his back and now Jessica has one too. The buildup of their relationship it slow and hot. I love every single conversation they have. Both are gun shy because they have some things in common. Once they open up and trust each other, the relationship grows into something pretty damn amazing. I love that the author really delves deep into both characters.
Things come crashing down after Jessica is assaulted at an award ceremony she attends with Reece, and then it’s non-stop action with lots of big answers and a whole slew of other questions left unanswered. Ms. Kelly really outdoes herself with the start of this series. I am so excited for Rowan’s book (the ex-actor turned cop) not only because his page time is intriguing, but I can’t wait to see how things unfold. The brothers’ backstory is heartbreaking, Jessica’s is as well. Yet you have two people overcoming all the heartbreak and obstacles thrown in their path and come out on the other side a bit battered but so very strong. Ms. Kelly does suspense very well. She has a knack for interesting characters, and the start to this series does not disappoint. I can’t wait until July for the next one! Non-stop action with a whole lot of sexy. If you have never read any books by Leslie Kelly, you will love this book. Then sit back and prepare yourself for her backlist.
March 13, 2018
Years ago I read several of Leslie Kelly’s Harlequin romances. They were good and enjoyable, but her latest, Watching You is great and consuming. I had other things I should have probably been doing on my day off but once I started reading this book, I literally could not put it down. Believe me, that is saying a lot since I do not usually go for “Hollywood” type stories. This is just a remarkable story of family intrigue, loyalty and the pitfalls of Hollywood.
I loved the characters, main and supporting ones, especially the siblings. The bad guys, past and present, in this story give a new meaning to two types of predators; fan stalking as well as those being on the front-page news these days.
Please note that George Clooney has nothing on Reece! I liked this controlling actor turned director as well as his love interest the feisty, Jessica. Theirs is a love story for the movies with all the romantic gestures, then dangers and secrets. How it all tie together in the end was wonderfully done. Still some unanswered questions for the brothers as well as the readers, that simply make you want the next book soon.
Watching You by Leslie A. Kelly is a sure fire amazing story that I now can hardly wait for the next brother’s story. Fans of celebrity stories with love this but so will all fans of romantic suspense.
An ARC of the book was given to me by the publisher through Net Galley which I voluntarily chose to read and reviewed. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I loved the characters, main and supporting ones, especially the siblings. The bad guys, past and present, in this story give a new meaning to two types of predators; fan stalking as well as those being on the front-page news these days.
Please note that George Clooney has nothing on Reece! I liked this controlling actor turned director as well as his love interest the feisty, Jessica. Theirs is a love story for the movies with all the romantic gestures, then dangers and secrets. How it all tie together in the end was wonderfully done. Still some unanswered questions for the brothers as well as the readers, that simply make you want the next book soon.
Watching You by Leslie A. Kelly is a sure fire amazing story that I now can hardly wait for the next brother’s story. Fans of celebrity stories with love this but so will all fans of romantic suspense.
An ARC of the book was given to me by the publisher through Net Galley which I voluntarily chose to read and reviewed. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
March 11, 2018
Jessica Jensen -- aspiring screenwriter, smart & snarky. Trying to finish college and promote her sister’s sculpting career.
Reece Winchester -- eldest member of the Winchester Hollywood dynasty, award winning actor/director. Currently in the market for a new home due to a case of arson.
This book has stalkers (both his and hers). There is her ex-boyfriend. There is a crazy fan who saw Reece smile at her from a movie screen. Who set Reece’s house on fire? Who murdered the famous Hollywood agent with ties to the Winchester family? What really happened to their older sister, Rachel? Some questions are answered, some are saved for the other two Winchester brothers. I will impatiently wait for June and the story of Evie (a true-crime writer) and Rowan (Reece’s twin brother).
This book is consent porn. It is romantic suspense with witty dialogue. And so, so much mystery.
I love Jessica and Reece. They make a great couple. I love the supporting characters. Her sister Liza. The roommate Emily. Alice the ER nurse. Edward the Winchester patriarch. I love romance packed with witty characters, suspense and mystery.
4 stars
The book was provided by NetGalley for an honest review.
Reece Winchester -- eldest member of the Winchester Hollywood dynasty, award winning actor/director. Currently in the market for a new home due to a case of arson.
This book has stalkers (both his and hers). There is her ex-boyfriend. There is a crazy fan who saw Reece smile at her from a movie screen. Who set Reece’s house on fire? Who murdered the famous Hollywood agent with ties to the Winchester family? What really happened to their older sister, Rachel? Some questions are answered, some are saved for the other two Winchester brothers. I will impatiently wait for June and the story of Evie (a true-crime writer) and Rowan (Reece’s twin brother).
This book is consent porn. It is romantic suspense with witty dialogue. And so, so much mystery.
I love Jessica and Reece. They make a great couple. I love the supporting characters. Her sister Liza. The roommate Emily. Alice the ER nurse. Edward the Winchester patriarch. I love romance packed with witty characters, suspense and mystery.
4 stars
The book was provided by NetGalley for an honest review.
February 21, 2018
Reese Winchester, former actor now director, sees his life as though he is directing a movie. Bad luck has followed his family and after his home was burned down he was visiting his aunt's art gallery he spots Jessica Jensen speaking to one of their employees about her sister's art. Reese is immediately captivated by her and obsesses over getting his chance to meet her. Jessica wants to be a screen writer and is so close to finishing school but needs an internship. Reese offers her the chance of a lifetime but is it because of their chemistry or her work. Dark secrets are brought out into the open but can this strengthen Reese and Jessica or draw them apart. These two were explosive together. I love their chemistry and how good they are for each other. I can't wait for the next book in this series!!!
April 1, 2018
Let’s take a minute to talk about first impressions. They matter. They really matter. This book cover made a great first impression. Usually I’m drawn to covers with topless men or couples embracing so the fact that this even caught my eye has to say something. He looks powerful and in control.
All right, now for the story. This book starts out at an art gallery. Jessica wants to arrange a showing for her friend. Reece sees her on the security cameras and falls in love, lust maybe. Whatever it is, he knows he has to have her.
However, he doesn’t go talk to her like most men would he makes intricate arrangements with the goal of getting her alone several weeks in the future.
From their first meeting, their time together is riddled with drama. It’s one thing after another, these two can’t seem to get a break. To be honest, I didn’t know what to think half the time. There was a lot of angst as well as mystery and suspense. It seemd no matter where you look someone was plotting to keep these two apart.
Which brings me to my first criticism the relationship felt forced. Don’t get me wrong, Jessica and Reece had awesome chemistry, I enjoyed their banter. It seemed as though they were only together because of the stalker(s), or the threats on their life. There were no real dates, moonlight walks, romantic dinners, etc. While I liked the both characters, I didn’t fall in love with them.
There was too much drama, all the time, and I couldn’t relate to either of them. Had the author given them some time to be a normal couple with dates, late night phone calls, maybe the odd flirty text, I might have been able to relate more. There also wasn’t as much romance as I had hoped. There’s a couple steamy scenes but overall the book is wholesome.
My second criticism, I shouldn’t even call it criticism at all, it’s just a preference. I love reading about strong women. Reece tells us over and over how strong he thinks Jessica is. As a reader, I see Jessica as someone who has to be rescued repeatedly. I would have loved to see her solve even one problem (the thing with the professor perhaps, or her job situation) without Reece stepping in to save the day.
To the authors credit, this isn’t your typical celebrity meets average girl Cinderella story. We’ve all read that a few dozen times. This book was different because of Reece’s secrets as well as the never ending threats and drama. I think this book tells the story of a celebrity who is victimized by a stalker more so than a celebirty who falls in love.
Overall, Watching You was well written and engaging. Even though I wasn’t in love with the characters, putting the book down was never an option. I had to know what would happen next and how all the loose ends would get tied up. It wasn’t the best book I’ve ever read but it was a worthwhile way to spend an evening. I’d recommend it for anyone who enjoys reading about celebrities, especially anyone who prefers mystery/ suspense with a touch of romance.
I received a copy of this book from the author/ publisher via NetGalley.
All right, now for the story. This book starts out at an art gallery. Jessica wants to arrange a showing for her friend. Reece sees her on the security cameras and falls in love, lust maybe. Whatever it is, he knows he has to have her.
However, he doesn’t go talk to her like most men would he makes intricate arrangements with the goal of getting her alone several weeks in the future.
From their first meeting, their time together is riddled with drama. It’s one thing after another, these two can’t seem to get a break. To be honest, I didn’t know what to think half the time. There was a lot of angst as well as mystery and suspense. It seemd no matter where you look someone was plotting to keep these two apart.
Which brings me to my first criticism the relationship felt forced. Don’t get me wrong, Jessica and Reece had awesome chemistry, I enjoyed their banter. It seemed as though they were only together because of the stalker(s), or the threats on their life. There were no real dates, moonlight walks, romantic dinners, etc. While I liked the both characters, I didn’t fall in love with them.
There was too much drama, all the time, and I couldn’t relate to either of them. Had the author given them some time to be a normal couple with dates, late night phone calls, maybe the odd flirty text, I might have been able to relate more. There also wasn’t as much romance as I had hoped. There’s a couple steamy scenes but overall the book is wholesome.
My second criticism, I shouldn’t even call it criticism at all, it’s just a preference. I love reading about strong women. Reece tells us over and over how strong he thinks Jessica is. As a reader, I see Jessica as someone who has to be rescued repeatedly. I would have loved to see her solve even one problem (the thing with the professor perhaps, or her job situation) without Reece stepping in to save the day.
To the authors credit, this isn’t your typical celebrity meets average girl Cinderella story. We’ve all read that a few dozen times. This book was different because of Reece’s secrets as well as the never ending threats and drama. I think this book tells the story of a celebrity who is victimized by a stalker more so than a celebirty who falls in love.
Overall, Watching You was well written and engaging. Even though I wasn’t in love with the characters, putting the book down was never an option. I had to know what would happen next and how all the loose ends would get tied up. It wasn’t the best book I’ve ever read but it was a worthwhile way to spend an evening. I’d recommend it for anyone who enjoys reading about celebrities, especially anyone who prefers mystery/ suspense with a touch of romance.
I received a copy of this book from the author/ publisher via NetGalley.
March 12, 2018
While writing the first book in the series set up to the rest of the book the Author will be writing it keeps to be done well to keep readers hooked for the next book. This book falls flat from the male and female points of view that readers will guess who is who at first to the cliffhanger that isn't needed. Many loose end that could have been tied up in this book are left up in the air. The part that kept me wanting to put the book down and not finish it was the little stalker manipulatively controlling romance.
First books in the series need to establish a backstory that can have understanding motive as well as character development but it can also have hidden gems. This Story has no of that.
I do not think I will be reading the next in the series.
Thank you to Netgalley for the advance copy Leslie A. Kelly Watching You (Hollywood Heat #1)
First books in the series need to establish a backstory that can have understanding motive as well as character development but it can also have hidden gems. This Story has no of that.
I do not think I will be reading the next in the series.
Thank you to Netgalley for the advance copy Leslie A. Kelly Watching You (Hollywood Heat #1)
March 12, 2018
Watching You by Leslie A. Kelly is the First book in the "Hollywood Heat" series. This is the story of Reece Winchester and Jessica Jensen.
Reece's day started off with his house burning down after that he went to his Aunt Sharon's gallery to see how she was doing. There Reece day turned out somewhat better, not just because his Aunt helped raised him and his siblings but because he spotted a redhead women that he found interesting.
Jessica was looking to help her sister find a place to display her art for a showing. This lead her to meet Reece who she found irresistible.
Reece first thought he just wanted a quick relationship with Jessica but the more he came to know her the more he wanted something more. But there is danger coming toward them will they be able to have more?
Really enjoyed their story!
Reece's day started off with his house burning down after that he went to his Aunt Sharon's gallery to see how she was doing. There Reece day turned out somewhat better, not just because his Aunt helped raised him and his siblings but because he spotted a redhead women that he found interesting.
Jessica was looking to help her sister find a place to display her art for a showing. This lead her to meet Reece who she found irresistible.
Reece first thought he just wanted a quick relationship with Jessica but the more he came to know her the more he wanted something more. But there is danger coming toward them will they be able to have more?
Really enjoyed their story!
March 10, 2018
This is the first book in a romantic suspense trilogy. It is about the Winchester brothers former child stars. This is Reece Winchester and Jessica Jensen’s story. Hollywood can be a cutthroat business and Jessica is finding out just how cut throat. Jessica is a talented writer and hopes to someday be part of the Hollywood scene in her own right. From the moment Reece and Jessica meet there is a strong attraction, but Reece has secrets and Jessica has a stalker. When things start happening where is the threat coming from, Jessica or Reece’s past. There is a cliff hanger at the end of the book that leads into the second book. I enjoyed the suspense in this book along with the romance. I look forward to reading about Rowan and Raine.
March 1, 2018
Jessica Jensen grew up on movies and especially loved those Reece Winchester starred in. Who knew they would meet. And that Reece would want Jessica as much or more then she wanted him. What starts as just lust soon becomes so much more.
Yet Reece's life if filled with secrets and a past that may still be after him. Between his stalkers, both of their pasts and the many human mistakes they each make can happily ever after find them? Or will this love story turn into Hollywood's next tragic story.
I received a free copy from net galley. I really enjoyed this book. They story was a bit different from the typical romance.
Yet Reece's life if filled with secrets and a past that may still be after him. Between his stalkers, both of their pasts and the many human mistakes they each make can happily ever after find them? Or will this love story turn into Hollywood's next tragic story.
I received a free copy from net galley. I really enjoyed this book. They story was a bit different from the typical romance.
March 9, 2018
Reese Winchester started out having a bad day, with his house being burnt down, but soon the day turns around when he sees Jessica Jensen walk into his aunt’s art gallery. Reece is a former actor now director of films who wants Jessica.
Jessica Jensen is a poor college student just trying to make ends meet and is hoping to become a screenwriter. A meeting between Reese and Jess at an art gallery show for her friend sets in motion the chemistry and danger for the both of them.
I liked the romance and mystery through out this book and can’t wait to read the next book in the series.
I received a free copy from the publisher and Netgally in exchange for an honest review
Jessica Jensen is a poor college student just trying to make ends meet and is hoping to become a screenwriter. A meeting between Reese and Jess at an art gallery show for her friend sets in motion the chemistry and danger for the both of them.
I liked the romance and mystery through out this book and can’t wait to read the next book in the series.
I received a free copy from the publisher and Netgally in exchange for an honest review
March 16, 2018
This story pulls you into a world of glitter, mystery, ambition, passion and danger. An emotionally thrilling, action packed, edge of your seat panting for more romantic adventure.
Aspiring screenwriter Jessica Jensen is sexy, sassy, strong, creative and a waitress living with her sister and looking to the future. Reece Winchester is sexy, strong, charming and Hollywood's hottest Actor, director, millionaire, and gorgeous mystery man-he's every woman's fantasy. They cross paths by shear luck and the chemistry between them is undeniable but danger lurks and secrets long berried are surfacing. Looking forward to more Winchester men and their exciting stories.
Aspiring screenwriter Jessica Jensen is sexy, sassy, strong, creative and a waitress living with her sister and looking to the future. Reece Winchester is sexy, strong, charming and Hollywood's hottest Actor, director, millionaire, and gorgeous mystery man-he's every woman's fantasy. They cross paths by shear luck and the chemistry between them is undeniable but danger lurks and secrets long berried are surfacing. Looking forward to more Winchester men and their exciting stories.
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