Early Book Review: Born Wild by Julie Ann Walker

Born Wild is the fifth romance in the Black Knights Inc. series by Julie Ann Walker. It is schedule for release on November 5 2013. Eve Edens is one of the few people privileged enough to know the truth about just who what Black Knights Inc really do, partly because she played helped out in a previous adventure. However, you do not have to have read the previous books to enjoy this installment. Eve in very wealthy, with an overbearing father, press that hounds her every move, and is a hairs breath away from her doctorate degree. Unfortunately, she has had some serous accidents lately, and she is sure that someone is out to kill her. The only place she feels like she can turn holds its own dangers. William 'Wild Bill' Reichert was her first love, and the man she betrayed by dating, and marrying, another man while he was away. He is also a member of the Black Knights and the big brother of her best friend Becky. Together they need to find out who is behind all of Eve's bad luck, unfortunately the answer is likely closer that anyone wants to consider. When all is said and done will they give romance a second chance?

Born Wild is a suspenseful romance full of action and mystery. It also has some lengthy sex scenes and some little things that started to irk me by the end of the book, but lets talk about the good first. Bill is a strong, solid character. He is the epitome of the stoic alpha male with the heart of gold, a boy scout with strong, capable hands. He is a wonderful character that tried to do the right thing even when he feels like the person he is helping might not deserve it. His only weakness is Eve, and his long standing love and desire for her. Eve has been sheltered and had her father calling the shots for most of her life, mainly because she does not have the heart to tell him no. But, she has done a lot to better herself (defensive driving, learning to shoot, martial arts, etc) and become stronger physically and emotionally. However, all that work might go to waste if she does not find out who is out to kill her. Eve has a balance of looking innocent and weak, while being steady and strong under the surface. The tension between the pair, and the set up for the next book with another couple were done very well. As was the level of action and suspense, though I will admit tat I figured out the bad guy about halfway through the book, even though I was not completely sure on how the motives matched them until the very end.

One of the things that did get on my nerves while reading was Eve's constant pep talks to herself about 'lady balls'. Come on, I am all for a woman being strong, but why would a woman that can not even swear when her life is one the line use that kind of terminology so often during her inner dialogue? Again, she uses crass words with Bill, I think more in an attempt to shock him or herself. I have no issues with characters swearing or using crass language IF it fits their personality, and I do not think it really fit in this case. My other moment of upset can with the sex scenes. Again, I am all for some hot and steamy moments and look forward to them when well done. However, I think that this series is falling into the trap than many romance series fall into, the loss or suspense and plot for the sake of sex. Any time the main characters ignore common sense and danger and have marathon sex sessions I feel a little let down. I expect more from Walker, and feel like this series is falling into that downward spiral- though I hope it redeems itself in the next story.

I would recommend Born Wild to fans of Walker and the Black Knights series. However, if you are a reader that gets easily annoyed at either of the issues I mentioned above, you might want to pass for now. I will give Walker another chance, because she usually makes me happy, and I will let you if the series will stay on my reading list or fall away.

Book Review: Wild Ride (Black Knights Inc.) by Julie Ann Walker

Wild Ride is the ninth book in the Black Knights Inc. series by Julie Ann Walker. I would not recommend coming into the series cold, since the character and larger story development helps readers start off with a good grasp on the characters, the dynamics, and where the book lies in the larger picture. I think the story here stands well on its own, but those that have at least a little prior knowledge will definitely enjoy the story more. 

Ethan "Ozzie" Sykes is a former Navy SEAL and underground operator for Black Knights Inc., the covert government defense firm disguised as a custom motorcycle shop. In a black-on-black international mission that went seriously sideways, Ozzie was badly injured—now he's stuck at BKI headquarters in Chicago, champing at the bit to get out into the field again. He's tasked with distracting Chicago Tribune ace reporter Samantha Tate, who's been trying to dig up the dirt on BKI for years. Turns out Samantha's beauty, intelligence and sense of humor are a seriously big distraction, and Ozzie's losing his desire to keep her at bay. Ozzie's tired of hiding, and Samantha may be the best-and worst—person to share his secrets with.

Wild Ride is a story that starts with our couple already firmly in lust, and more than a little denial. I liked Samantha's determination and efforts to do the smart thing, even when her heart and body push her in the opposite direction. I also liked Ozzie's dedication to his team, and could empathize with how lost and useless he felt being out of the field. I think the emotional connection between the two and the growth they both undergo really made the book. However, readers that have not really followed the series will not fully understand the subtleties and references about Samantha's work to expose the BKI team, or the importance of the mission and teamwork that is key to the BKI family. While there was some danger and action, mixed in well with some BKI family moments, I felt almost like the coming together of our couple was too easy. 

Wild Ride is  a good edition to the series, although I think that it was a little too dependent on the previous books for the characters development and clues to the larger picture. I still enjoyed the read, but I think that that series dependence might put off readers that have not read all of the previous books. 

Early Book Review: Hell or High Water by Julie Ann Walker

Hell or High Water is the first book the the new Deep Six series by Julie Ann Walker. It is currently scheduled for release on July 7th 2015 and takes place in the same timeline and big picture as the Black Knights, Inc. series.  Only two things could make Leo Anderson abandon his hunt for the legendary lost ship, La Santa Christina, and return to the world of weapons and warfare he swore to leave behind: a capsule of enriched uranium, lost on the ocean floor, and a plea for assistance from the one woman he can't seem to forget. The nation's security has always been CIA agent Olivia Mortier's top priority. But a mission-gone-wrong has begun to make her wonder if there's more to life than risking hers.

Hell or High Water is a good start to a new series, and I was glad to see a couple references to the Black Knights series. If you liked the combination of strong characters with some visible, and deeper, scars finding a path to happiness and a kind of peace then you will like this. I admit to liking some of the secondary characters, and the women, in the story more than out hero. However, this does not mean that Leo is not a good character, he just did not resinate with me as much as the other guys in his team or Olivia and later Maddy. There was lots of action, plenty of excitement and nail biting moments as well as a few times I wanted to bang my head on the desk in sympathy as Leo and Olivia face more than one interruption in their path. 

Hell or High Water is exactly what I have come to expect from Walker. High action, hot guys, and characters that have multiple layers and high octane lives. I really liked Olivia and Maddy, as well as the full cast of guys in the dive team. I am looking forward to seeing how the big picture of the Black Knights and Deep Six teams come together as the stories continue. 

Book Review: Thrill Ride by Julie Ann Walker

Thrill Ride is the forth romantic suspense novel in the Black Knights Inc. series by Julie Ann Walker. I have not read the previous books in the series, and think that anyone could pick up any book in this series without missing a beat. In this book, Rock Babineaux is a covert operative that gets information, and he’s the best and most honorable in the business. But, something goes wrong and he is marked for death by the government, classified as a rouge agent. His partners and friends at the covert special-ops organization Black Knights Inc. do not believe if, but have no idea where he is. He wants to stay away and protect his friends, survive on his own, but Vanessa Cordova has other ideas. She hasn't been the team’s communication specialist for long, but she knows Rock and that he could not possibly be guilty of murder. Vanessa, and the Black Knight crew, are willing to go to hell and back to help their friend, and that might just be necessary.

Thrill Ride has the expected alpha male, but also a strong heroine. They each had their faults, but that is what made them a little more real. I liked the chemistry between Rock and Vanessa, though it seemed like the foundation was set in the previous books in the series. I felt that it was a book with a good amount of suspense and action, but there was a good deal of it that seemed to be a set up for the next book in the series. There are several romantic series books that do this, and I am fine with that as you know it is liable to happen as soon as you start the series. I also felt that the suspense part of the story had a conclusion that seemed a little too easy, while the romantic ending seemed to drag on a bit. However, I did still enjoy the read and think there are many others that would enjoy it even more than I did.

I would recommend Thrill Ride to readers that have read the other books in the series, or simply like Walker's writing style. This was not my favorite example of romantic suspense or action, but it was still a fun summer read.

Book Review: Hot Pursuit (Black Knights Inc.) by Julie Ann Walker

Hot Pursuit is the eleventh (!) book in the Black Knights Inc. series by Julie Ann Walker. I have read most of the series, and think that the romance portion of each story stands fine on its own, however character development and the larger story arcs make the read much more enjoyable for those that have been following along.

Christian Watson, a former SAS officer and current BKI operator, never thought he would return to England after a terrible turn of events forced him to abandon his homeland. But now he's back on British soil where old enemies are determined to do him in. Fighting for his life is pretty much SOP for Christian. Doing it with the beautiful, bossy Emily Scott in tow is another matter entirely. Emily lost her coveted job at the CIA because of a colleague turned rogue, and now she has just one rule when it comes to men: they're for recreational purposes only. But when she and Christian are thrust into very close quarters while evading two mysterious men who want Christian dead, she can't help but question all her ideas about love and life lived on the edge. Battling the bad guys is hard enough, battling her feelings for Christian just might prove impossible.

Hot Pursuit has two solid main characters, with complex backgrounds the effect their relationship, and how they look at the world. Christian had a rough childhood, including loss and serious trauma followed by a horrible end to his career with the SAS. Emily had a terrible childhood and is certain that she is not meant for lifelong love or commitment. It is not the danger that keeps them apart, that is just for some spice and excitement for the story line. The real conflict here is all based in fear and stubbornness. I do like that Christian and Emily do trade quips and snipe at each other, but they also have very important talks about their pasts, and possibilities for the future. I like they they did not just jump in the sack and call it good- but actual had to work through the problems caused but their formative years, but while I enjoyed it the book did not wow me.

Hot Pursuit is a solid addition to the series, and one that I enjoyed more than the last couple. It made for a good snow day read. 

Book Review: Fuel for Fire (Black Knights Inc.) by Julie Ann Walker

Fuel for Fire is the tenth book in the Black Knights Inc. series by Julie Ann Walker. I have read most of the series, and think that the romance portion of each story stands fine on its own, however character development and the larger story arcs made the read more enjoyable for those that have been following along. If you are going to pick a random book from the series to read as a stand alone, I think this is one that will be less confusing than the others.

Dagan Zoelner has made three huge mistakes. The first two left blood on his hands. The third left him wondering...what if? What if he had told the woman of his dreams how he felt before his world fell apart? Spitfire CIA agent Chelsea Duvall has always had a thing for bossy, brooding Dagan. It's just as well that he's never given her a second look, since she carries a combustible secret about his past that threatens to torch their lives.

Fuel for Fire is a good combination of action and character interaction. There are plenty of chances for danger and action to leave readers holding their breath, but there is also a solid amount of character development and growth. Dagan is still guilt ridden because of something beyond his control, and considers himself unworthy of love and affection- even if he cannot help his attraction or desire to protect Chelsea. To make matters more difficult Chelsea is harboring her own guilt and attraction toward Dagan. I loved their banter, and that Dagan had to come to terms with the way his words might be affecting Chelsea's confidence. I did feel like I might have missed some character setup from earlier book, whether I missed some or just forgot some of the background I do not know. However, I still enjoyed the read.

Fuel for Fire is a solid installment of the series, with enough of its own story and character development to leave readers unsatisfied with the conclusion, but enough unanswered questions to leave them wanting more. 

Book Review: Built to Last (Black Knights, Inc) by Julie Ann Walker

Built to Last is the twelfth, and final,  book in the Black Knights, Inc series by Julie Ann Walker. While the romance between Sonya and Angel is new to this book, the background of how our characters got to this point is well established in the previous books. I think to fully enjoy and understand what is at stake, and the depth of some of the characters, it is important to read this series in order rather than jumping this far along. 

What appears to be a tricked-out motorcycle shop on the North Side of Chicago is actually headquarters for the world's most elite covert operatives. Deadly, dangerous, and determined, they'll steal your breath and your heart. After a mission-gone-sideways forces Jamin "Angel" Agassi to change his identity, he's determined to bring down the world's worst crime syndicate kingpin once and for all. That's going to be the easy part. Keeping Interpol agent Sonya Butler from discovering who he really is—and blazing another trail into his heart—is the challenge.

Built to Last is the final book in a long series, but Angel is a character we do not have much emotional knowledge of because of what he has had to do over the years. I was glad to finally get his story. Sonya is a strong, smart woman that stands up to Angel at every turn, and I enjoyed their banter and the depth of their story. It was interesting to discover the history, and the chemistry between the two. However, as much as I liked Sonya and they talk about the connection between the couple I just never really felt like it developed from anything. Both in the past and present I felt like it was a very quick jump from 'we should not' to love. I am not denying that it happens, but with the two layers of love story here I really never felt the developing relationship- it just was. The story was huge, but the relationship building seemed to be lost in the details needed to bring the pair together, and to wrap up all the loose ends of the series. I did love seeing Ace and Rusty continuing their story, and some of my favorite characters from the past reappear by the end of the book. I will admit that I did not remember every couple, and think I might have missed a few somewhere along the way. I did enjoy the story, and seeing everything come together. However, I did not connect with this story as much as I had hoped.

Built to Last offers series fans a solid conclusion, and a knowledge that their favorite characters have the happy ending they have fought hard for.

Giveaway and Book Review: Full Throttle by Julie Ann Walker

Read to the end of the review to enter a giveaway for a paperback ARC of this book.

Full Throttle is the seventh book in the Black Knights Inc series by Julie Ann Walker. Like the other books in this series, there is an underlying story arch, but each book can also stand on its own. Abby Thompson didn’t sign up to be the daughter of the President of the United States. Preferring a quiet life, she’s content to leave the politics and the international intrigue to her father. However, she did not put others in danger everywhere she went. Carlos “Steady” Soto has taken part in his fair share of dangerous missions. But when he’s tasked with protecting the only woman he ever loved he faces tough decisions on several fronts. This are made harder for both when Abby is kidnapped by a group of trained terrorists. While ruthless enemies stalk them, they must learn to trust each other again. Even if they do make it out alive, will Abby turn her back on him again?

Full Throttle is on par with the rest of the series, so if you have read any of the other Black Knights books you will like this as well. I like that Abby and Carlos had a solid back story, not that you would know from the original book description. Also, for those that have been following the series there are small strides in the larger story arch, but that does not interfere or distract from the story of this particular story keeping is a satisfying read to those that have not read the earlier books. I liked Abby's character, while she is sweet she also has a backbone of steel and is very smart. Carlos is also very smart and strong willed, but they compliment each other nicely rather than clashing. I was disappointed that despite their combined smarts there were a few too stupid to live sexy moments, this holds true with a pair of side characters too. These are smart, and in most cases highly trained, individuals should be able to think a bit more with their heads than whats in their pants.

Full Throttle is a entertaining romance with suspense and some solid action. It was a good read, but moments of shaking my head at the character's choices kept it from being great. I liked the characters, and find myself interested to see where the possible romance between a pair of secondary characters goes in a future book. I am sticking with the series for the entertaining reads, but hope that the next book has characters able to think through their libidos a bit better. 

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Book Review: Devil and the Deep (Deep Six #2) by Julie Ann Walker

Devil and the Deep is the second book in the Deep Six by Julie Ann Walker. I do recommend reading Hell of High Water before this book, because it includes the first meeting of our leading couple and the personalities and dynamics of most of the characters, but newcomers would catch up pretty quickly.

Cocktail parties, political fundraisers, and charity events are Maddy Powers' way of life. But the daring man who appropriated her father's yacht a couple of months ago is still out there, somewhere, and she wants to pay him back for the scorching kiss they shared. Behind his suave smile and ladykiller eyes, Bran Palladino carries a dark secret that keeps him from pursuing Maddy, even though he can't get her out of his head. But when Maddy is kidnapped as part of a grand scheme, it's time to put up or shut up because Bran can't live without Maddy now.

Devil and the Deep is a faced paced book with plenty of danger, action, and more. Maddy and a group of scholarship students are at a nearby beach, a reward for hard work, when a group or mercenaries attempt to kidnap Maddy. Fueled by an email telling him of Maddy’s location Bran goes to visit, and interrupts the attempt. Fire fights, power plays, and deception are the words of the day as they struggle to get everyone out of there alive. The chemistry between Maddy and Bran is an added distraction, as is Brans past. A few moments of passion that could be much better timed and promises of no strings finally get the pair to talk, but with high stakes and everything on the line they might not be able to keep any promises. The action was intense, as was the danger. I had a few face palms when they decided to have alone time, not necessarily the best time for it, but when there is that much going on I guess you take what you can get. I really enjoyed the personalities and interactions of the secondary characters, and look forward to continuing the series to see what happens next.

Devil and the Deep is a high action, high emotion, edition to the world Walker has created in her interrelated romance series. If you are a fan of the Deep Six or Black Knights series you will enjoy this story.  

Early Book Review: Too Hard to Handle by Julie Ann Walker

Too Hard to Handle is the eighth book in the Black Knights Inc. series by Julie Ann Walker. It is currently scheduled for release on September 1 2015. I would not recommend starting the series here, as the main players have some serious back story that is very important to the story, along with a larger story arch that is just starting to get very intense. Readers that have already read the first book in Walkers newest series, Hell or High Water, will have even more recognition and satisfaction of the larger story arch.

Dan "The Man" Currington is back in fighting form with a mission that takes him four thousand miles south of BKI headquarters, high in the Andes Mountains of Peru. He's hot on the trail of a rogue CIA agent selling classified government secrets to the highest bidder, when Penni DePaul (who fans of the series will recognize) arrives on the scene. Suddenly the stakes are higher, and keeping Penni safe becomes Dan's number one priority. A lot has changed since former Secret Service Agent Penni DePaul last saw Dan. Now a civilian, she's excited about what the future might hold. But before she can grab onto that future with both hands, she has to tie up some loose ends-namely, Dan Currington, the man she just can't forget. And a secret that's going to change both their lives-if they can stay alive, that is.

Too Hard to Handle is a satisfying addition to the BKI series. I have been eagerly awaiting this story, to see Penni and Dan find each other again and see things through. Penni ending up in the midst of an operation that will lead then to the person responsible for the catastrophe that neither can forget is not completely unexpected, but is well done. There was high action and we get a look at how deep the corruption and evil causing so much trouble is rooted. The multilayered connections and changes of narrator could get confusing, I will admit to reading a couple passages more than once because of the differing perspectives and trying to figure out the larger puzzle before it all played out. While Penni does not reveal her big secret until the end, but I rather suspected what it was well before she finally revealed it. I think most readers will have the same experience with that part of the story, but suspense and efforts Penni and Dan make to come together that that a minor blip in my enjoyment.

Too Hard to Handle is a very well done addition to a very complex and realistic world created by Walker. While each book might be satisfying on its own, I would not recommend reading them as stand alones. The greater story is so well woven through the series that it would be a shame to read only part of it. I am looking forward to the continuation of this story, and how the rest of our BKI characters find their happy ever after. This is a must read for fans of Walker's work. If you love suspense, fast action, complex plots and characters, and hot love connections then I would highly recommend this series as a whole.