WINGS ONCE CURSED and BOUND by Piper J. Drake-a review

WINGS ONCE CURSED AND BOUND(Mythwoven 1) by Piper J. Drake-a review

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO /Google Play /

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date April 11, 2023

My wings unbound, I am the Thai bird princess
The kinnaree
And no matter the cost,
I will be free.

Bennet Andrews represents a secret organization of supernatural beings dedicated to locating and acquiring mythical objects, tucking them safely away where they cannot harm the human race. When he meets Peeraphan Rahttana, it’s too late—she has already stepped into The Red Shoes, trapped by their curse to dance to her death.

But Bennet isn’t the only supernatural looking for deadly artifacts. And when the shoes don’t seem to harm Peeraphan, he realizes that he’ll have to save her from the likes of creatures she never knew existed. Bennett sweeps Peeraphan into a world of myth and power far beyond anything she ever imagined. There, she finds that magic exists in places she never dreamed—including deep within herself.

•••••

REVIEW: WINGS ONCE CURSED AND BOUND is the first instalment in Piper J. Drake’s contemporary, adult MYTHWOVEN paranormal, romance series focusing on a group known as the Darke Consortium, made up of several supernatural powers. This is Peeraphan ‘ Punch’ Rahttana, a Thai bird princess known as a kinnaree, and ancient vampire Bennet Andrews’ story line.

Told from several limited omniscient third person perspectives including Bennett and Peeraphan WINGS ONCE CURSED AND BOUND follows in the wake of the attempted abduction of our story line heroine. Peeraphan Rahttana aka Punch is a Thai bird princess, a mythological kinnaree, and the target of a collector of rare items, artifacts and creatures. A gift of a pair of red satin dance slippers imbued with magical yet deadly powers from an unknown benefactor finds Peeraphan beholden to her would-be rescuer, ancient vampire Bennet Andrews, as they search for a cure to the never ending dance. With the help of several members of the Darke Consortium including vampires, witches, shifters, fae and sidhe, Peeraphan must venture onto a journey of truth, a journey in which Peeraphan’s legitimacy and certainty will free her from the ‘dance of death’. What ensues is the building relationship between Bennet and Peeraphan, and the potential fall-out as the collector makes good on his desire for our heroine, and Bennet must come to terms with the past.

The relationship between Peeraphan and Bennet begins as a rescue but Bennet is gravely injured and our heroine must ‘donate’ blood in order to save his life. Connected at a visceral level, Bennet and Peeraphan must search for a remedy or fix to remove the red satin slippers that are controlling our heroine’s life. Bennet struggles in the wake of losing someone he loved, someone whose life span was limited, someone he compared to Peeraphan Rahttana. The $ex scenes are limited but passionate without the use of over the top,sexually graphic language and text.

WINGS ONCE CURSED AND BOUND is a story steeped in Thai and Asian mythology with a large number of supernatural beings including dragons, vampires, shifters, fae and witches. We are introduced to several members of the Darke Consortium, responsible to locate and retrieve objects of myth and magic: Werewolf Thomas, witch Marie, Bennet’s personal assistant Duncan, winged Fae Ashke-the head of security for the Darke Consortium, Asamoah, and Peeraphan’s sugar gliders Toby and Cori. The requisite evil has many faces

WINGS ONCE CURSED AND BOUND is a story of power and control, obsession and greed, magic and the supernatural, acceptance and understanding. The premise is intriguing and enchanting but the early chapters were more telling than showing, often to the point of discomfort. The romance is fated and tender; the characters are edgy and spirited.

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

Piper J. Drake is a bestselling author of romantic suspense and edgy contemporary romance, a frequent flyer, and day job road warrior. She is often distracted by dogs, cupcakes, and random shenanigans.Connect with Piper at: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Google + | GoodReads Youtube

Share

Forever Strong (True Heroes #6) by Piper J. Drake-Review & Giveaway

Forever Strong (True Heroes #6) by Piper J. Drake-Review and Giveaway

 

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / Chapters Indigo / Google Play

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date January 28, 2020

On the beautiful Hawaiian Islands, not all is paradise in this high-stakes, action-packed romantic suspense.

He’ll risk his life for her . . . but will he risk his heart?

Jiang Ying Yue assumed her kidnapping was random, that she was in the wrong place at the wrong time. After all, who would want to harm her? But then her rescuer—a charismatic former soldier who takes her breath away—uncovers a traitor in her father’s organization. Now, Ying Yue realizes that she’s become a pawn in a dangerous game, and her kidnapper won’t be satisfied until she disappears for good.

Zu Anyanwu’s work with Search and Protect and his canine partner Buck have always been his first priority . . . until he’s tasked with keeping Ying Yue safe. To him, the brave and resilient investment expert is more than just another client. But with danger closing in, Zu can’t let his emotions get in the way of the most important job he’s ever had—protecting the woman he loves.

••••••••••

REVIEW: FOREVER STRONG is the sixth instalment in Piper J. Drake’s contemporary, adult TRUE HEROES romantic, military suspense series focusing on the men and women who work for the Search and Protect team, a Special Ops team of mercenaries for hire location in the Hawaiian Islands. This is K9 handler, and Search and Protect Owner and Agent Azubuike ‘Zu’ Anyanwu (and Buck), and specialist in international tax law Jiang Ying Yue’s story line. FOREVER STRONG can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous instalments is revealed where necessary.

Told from dual third person perspectives (Zu and Ying Yue) FOREVER STRONG follows in the aftermath of a search and rescue mission where the Search and Protect team find our heroine, an unexpected prisoner, but a woman who is not willing to play victim for very long. As the daughter of a prominent Singapore businessman, Ying Yue believes she has a target on her back but a return to her father finds Ying Yue facing a possible traitor in her father’s company. Refusing to release Ying Yue into her father’s custody, Zu Anyanwu, takes responsibility for the safety and protection of our story line heroine. What ensues is the building romance and relationship between Zu and Ying Yue, and the potential fall-out as Ying Yue remains a target of some very powerful men, with possible connections to a human trafficking ring.

Ying Yue refuses to be a victim but someone is determined to take control of our heroine placing the Search and Protect Team in the direct line of fire. On the run to secure her safety, Ying Yue and Zu will call in reinforcements including the K9 specialists from Hope’s Crossing Kennels.

The relationship between Ying Yue and Zu is one of immediate attraction but Zu knows to get involved with a client could place both of them in danger if Zu gets distracted. Ying Yue is drawn to our hero, a hero who reluctantly accepts that there may be something between our couple, something that he is willing to explore. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

There is a large ensemble cast of colorful and energetic secondary and supporting characters including Agents Raul Sa and his dog Taz, Arin Siri and her dog King, and communication specialist Pau; Kenny, a man with his ear to the ground about the illegal goings on in the Hawaiian Islands; officer Kokua; Ying Yue’s father Jiang Li Weis, and his numerous security personnel; as well as the cameo appearances of David Cruz, Alex Rojas and Brandon Forte, whom we met earlier in the series through Hope’s Crossing Kennels. The requisite evil has many faces.

FOREVER STRONG is a story of betrayal and vengeance; of power and control; of acceptance and love. The fast paced premise is engaging and inviting; the characters are spirited and strong; the romance is seductive. Piper J Drake pens a fascinating series of romantic suspense.

Reading Order and previous reviews

Extreme Honor
Ultimate Courage
Absolute Trust
Total Bravery
Fierce Justice/a>

Copy supplied by Netgalley

reviewed by Sandy

 

Piper J DrakePiper J. Drake is a bestselling author of romantic suspense and edgy contemporary romance, a frequent flyer, and day job road warrior. She is often distracted by dogs, cupcakes, and random shenanigans.Connect with Piper at: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Google + | GoodReads | Youtube

Piper J. Drake’s publisher(Forever /Hachette) is graciously offering  a paper copy of FOREVER STRONG to ONE lucky commenter at The Reading Cafe.

1. If you have not previously registered at The Reading Cafe, please register by using the log-in at the top of the page (side bar) or by using one of the social log-ins.

NOTE: If you are having difficulty commenting after logging onto the site, please refresh the page (at the top of your computer).

2. If you are using a social log-in, please post your email address with your comment.

3. Please LIKE Piper J. Drake on Facebook

4. Please LIKE and follow FOREVER ROMANCE on Facebook

5. Please LIKE The Reading Cafe on FACEBOOK and then click GET NOTIFICATION under ‘liked’ for an additional entry.

6. LIKE The Reading Cafe on Twitter for an additional entry.

7. Please FOLLOW The Reading Cafe on GOODREADS for an additional entry.

8. Please follow The Reading Cafe on Tumblr

8. Giveaway open to USA and CANADA only

9. Giveaway runs from January 25-30, 2020

 

Share

Fierce Justice (True Heroes #5) by Piper J. Drake-Review & Giveaway

FIERCE JUSTICE (True Heroes #5) by Piper J. Drake-Review and Giveaway

FIERCE JUSTICE
True Heroes #5
by Piper J. Drake
Release Date: February 26, 2019
Genre: adult, contemporary, romantic, military, suspense

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / Chapters Indigo / Google Play

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date February 26, 2019.

As a K9 handler on the Search and Protect team, Arin Siri needs to be where the action is–and right now that’s investigating a trafficking operation in Hawaii. When an enemy from her past shows up bleeding, she’s torn between the desire to patch Jason up or put more holes in him. Then again, the hotshot mercenary could be the person she needs to bust open her case.

Jason Landon’s team had always been about taking the contract, getting paid, and not asking questions. But after his last mission went south, he started to get curious. His questions quickly drove him out of his mercenary group and off the grid. Now, the only people he can think of to help him are the Search and Protect team — and the dark beauty who is as ready to kill him as she is to bed him. And he’s totally ready to risk the former for the chance at the latter. But he isn’t the only person with a target on his back. Arin’s in danger too, and he’ll do everything he can to keep her safe.

••••••••

REVIEW: FIERCE JUSTICE is the fifth instalment in Piper J.Drake’s contemporary, adult TRUE HEROES romantic, military suspense series focusing on the men and women who work for the Search and Protect team, a Special Ops team of mercenaries for hire location in the Hawaiian Islands. This is K9 handler, and Search and Protect Agent Arin Siri, and independent mercenary Jason Landon’s story line. FIERCE JUSTICE can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story line is revealed where necessary.

Told from dual third person perspectives (Arin and Jason) FIERCE JUSTICE follows the building relationship and professional partnership between K9 handler, and Search and Protect Agent Arin Siri, and independent mercenary Jason Landon. Arin Siri has no idea the injured man she found while on assignment is the same man she met, months earlier, while investigating a suspected human trafficking ring. Jason Landon’s previous encounter with our story line heroine changed the direction of Jason’s life. Working together to shut down the same ongoing trafficking ring, Jason and Arin will discover their mutual attraction and ease of working with one another. What ensues is the building romance and relationship between Arin and Jason, and the potential fall-out as Jason’s time working with Arin comes with an expiry date.

Jason Landon had quickly flipped sides but finds himself targeted by the men with whom he used to work. Questioning his choice of missions, Jason offers his help to the Search and Protect Team in an effort to prove he is more than his last assignment. Arin Siri and her German shepherd King prefer to work alone but finding a familiar face in Jason Landon gave Arin another purpose going forward.

The relationship between Arin and Jason is slow to build as Arin struggles with issues of trust. Jason’s attraction to Arin is immediate but convincing Arin to take a chance is a battle Jason is willing to fight. The $ex scenes are passionate and seductive without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

We are re-introduced to Erin’s sister Mali, and her boyfriend, fellow agent Raul; communications specialist Pua; founder of the Search and Protect mercenary group Zu and his dog Buck; and Kenny, a man with his ear to the ground about the illegal goings on in the Hawaiian Islands. The requisite evil has many faces.

FIERCE JUSTICE is a story of suspense, romance, trust and communication. The premise is fast paced, action packed and inviting; the characters are energetic and strong; the romance is captivating and intense. FIERCE JUSTICE continues to focus on the destructive nature of the human trafficking trade, and the people who struggle to take down everyone involved. FIERCE JUSTICE does not end on a HEA but a happily ever after-for now.

Reading Order and previous reviews

Extreme Honor
Ultimate Courage
Absolute Trust
Total Bravery
Fierce Justice

Copy supplied by Netgalley

reviewed by Sandy

Piper J DrakePiper J. Drake is a bestselling author of romantic suspense and edgy contemporary romance, a frequent flyer, and day job road warrior. She is often distracted by dogs, cupcakes, and random shenanigans.Connect with Piper at: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Google + | GoodReads | Youtube

 

 

Piper J. Drake’s publisher(Forever /Hachette) is graciously offering the TRUE HEROES series in paper back to ONE lucky commenter at The Reading Cafe.

1. If you have not previously registered at The Reading Cafe, please register by using the log-in at the top of the page (side bar) or by using one of the social log-ins.

NOTE: If you are having difficulty commenting after logging onto the site, please refresh the page (at the top of your computer).

2. If you are using a social log-in, please post your email address with your comment.

3. Please LIKE Piper J. Drake on Facebook

4. Please LIKE and follow FOREVER ROMANCE on Facebook

5. Please LIKE The Reading Cafe on FACEBOOK and then click GET NOTIFICATION under ‘liked’ for an additional entry.

6. LIKE The Reading Cafe on Twitter for an additional entry.

7. Please FOLLOW The Reading Cafe on GOODREADS for an additional entry.

8. Please follow The Reading Cafe on Tumblr

8. Giveaway open to USA and CANADA only

9. Giveaway runs from February 22-26, 2019

Share

Total Bravery (True Heroes #4) by Piper J. Drake-Review, Excerpt & Giveaway Tour

TOTAL BRAVERY (True Heroes #4) by Piper J.Drake-Review, Excerpt & Giveaway Tour

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / Chapters Indigo / Google Play  / iTunes

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date April 24, 2018

True heroes will do anything to protect the women they love…

As the newest recruit at Search and Protect, Raul has a lot to prove. Luckily, he’s got the best friend and partner a man could ask for: a highly trained, fiercely loyal German Shepherd Dog named Taz. Together, Raul and Taz make an unbeatable team. But their first mission in Hawaii really puts them to the test when an international kidnapping ring sets its sights on the bravest woman Raul’s ever met . . .

Mali knows her latest job has put one hell of a target on her back. And on this small island paradise, there’s nowhere to hide. With a service dog like Taz, Mali feels safe. Sharing close quarters with a smoldering muscle-for-hire like Raul, she feels something else – an unexpected wave of desire. Raul feels it too. But when the kidnappers make their move, he’s got to turn that slow-burning passion into hard-hitting action – and save the life of the woman he loves.

•••••••••••

REVIEW: TOTAL BRAVERY is the fourth instalment in Piper J. Drake’s contemporary, adult TRUE HEROES romantic suspense series. This is US Army veteran Raul Sa, and researcher Mali Siri’s story line. TOTAL BRAVERY can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary. We were first introduced to Raul in book three-ABSOLUTE TRUST.

Told from dual third person perspectives (Raul and Mali) TOTAL BRAVERY follows the building relationship between US Army veteran Raul Sa, and researcher Mali Siri. Hawaii was the perfect destination for Mali and her team of researchers to look into the human trafficking problem befalling the region but our heroine never expected to be caught-up as potential victims. With her team missing, and Mali on the run, our heroine contacts her sister Arin, US Army Sniper and a member of the Search and Protect Organization mercenary group stationed on the island of Oahu. Enter Raul Sa, newest member of the group along with his canine partner Taz, and the man with whom Mali will fall in love. What ensues is the building romance between Raul and Mali, as the members of the Search and Protect group set a plan into motion to rescue Mali’s team from a potential human trafficking ring.

A genius since a young age, Mali Siri has been bullied most of her life but had the benefit of her older sister’s protection throughout her earlier years into present day-a protection that also frightens our heroine in that she questions her sister’s darker side, and what it is she is truly capable of doing. Raul Sa is a bit of a loner whose first day with the Search and Protect Organization in Oahu found our hero going on a solo mission to rescue the woman with whom he would fall in love.

The relationship between Raul and Mali is one of immediate attraction but Raul knows that to get involved with a client, especially his best friend and fellow US Army veteran Arin’s younger sister, could mean immediate dismissal from the group he recently joined. Mali is a bit of a fragile butterfly; to some extent naïve and sheltered from who, what, how and why of her sister’s life, that pulls at the alpha in our story line hero. The $ex scenes are limited but passionate.

TOTAL BRAVERY is a bit of a departure from the first three instalments and the Hope’s Crossing K9 group, in that the story introduces a new team of Special Ops mercenaries for hire, living and working in the Hawaiian Islands. We are introduced to Mali’s sister, and Raul’s best friend Arin Siri and her K9 King; communications specialist Pua; computer specialist Kai; founder of the Search and Protect mercenary group Zu and his dog Buck; kennel master Todd Miller and his wife Kalea; police officer Kokua; and Kenny, a man with his ear to the ground about the illegal goings on in the Hawaiian Islands.

TOTAL BRAVERY is a story of romance, suspense, betrayal and love. The premise is well-paced, intriguing and thrilling; the characters are colorful and energetic; the romance is captivating and sensual. TOTAL BRAVERY is an engaging and edgy story line.

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

More from the True Heroes series:

 Extreme Honor

Get More information at: Goodreads |Amazon| Barnes & Noble| Kobo| iTunes

Ultimate Courage

Get More information at: Goodreads |Amazon| Barnes & Noble| Kobo| iTunes

Absolute Trust

Get More information at: Goodreads |Amazon| Barnes & Noble| Kobo| iTunes

 

 
;

When eighty-five pounds of dog is suddenly in your way, you either stop or trip over him. Momentum played a part in Raul’s decision. He fell forward and spread his arms wide to catch himself on the bed rather than accidentally catch a handful of Mali’s towel.
He caught a face full of her towel-covered cleavage instead.
Mali squeaked.
Raul rolled to the side.
Taz barked.
“Sorry.” Jeezus. He tried to get out his apology, his eyes clamped shut. He was not going to remember how good she smelled, a mixture of honey and sea salt and the indefinable, delicate scent of woman. Nope. He wasn’t. Nor was he going to ever think about how nice her cleavage had been. Just enough to bury his face and let him nuzzle without being so full he’d suffocate. The palms of his hands burned with an insane desire to feel her soft skin cupped in his grip.
Mali backed away and then hissed in pain.
His head cleared, and he opened his eyes to see nothing but ceiling. “Did I hurt you? Do you need help?”
She leaned forward into his range of view, one hand clutching the front of her towel over her breasts. That was a really hot image, too. “No. I just sat back too fast and put weight on my sunburn.”
“Oh.” He had no idea what to do. He couldn’t sit up while she was leaning over him and rolling to the side seemed awkward as hell. Of course, so did lying flat on his back in front of a woman in nothing but a towel. “Is there something I can do to get out of this situation without Arin wanting to kill me?”
Mali’s eyes widened, and she froze for a moment, her lips forming a seriously naughty looking O. Then she blinked and laughed. “No. Probably not.”
It was either laugh with her or pull her down for a kiss. “I’m doomed. Dead.” He paused. “Once I get you safely to Arin, that is. No worries. We’ll get you to her before I report myself for molesting her little sister.”
Her laughter faded, and her dark brown eyes sparkled with mischief. “Well, if you’re going to get in trouble anyway…”
She bent then, leaning a hand on his chest, and pressed her lips to his.


 

Piper J. Drake is a bestselling author of romantic suspense and edgy contemporary romance, a frequent flyer, and day job road warrior. She is often distracted by dogs, cupcakes, and random shenanigans.Connect with Piper at: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Google + | GoodReads | Youtube

NOTE: The Reading Cafe is NOT responsible for the rafflecopter giveaway. If you have any questions, please contact the tour provider

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Share

Contracted Defense (Safeguard #3) by Piper J. Drake-Review, Excerpt & Giveaway Tour

CONTRACTED DEFENSE (Safeguard #3) by Piper Drake-Review, Excerpt & Giveaway Tour

Contracted Defense banner

CONTRACTED DEFENSE
Safeguard #3
by Piper J. Drake
Genre: adult, contemporary,erotic, romantic suspense
Release Date: September 15, 2017

Contracted Defense

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Barnes & Noble | Kobo | iTunes

About the book: Release Date September 15, 2017

Time is running out and the enemy is at the gate.

Adam Hicks may be the rookie at Safeguard, but he’s no novice in the field. Retired from active duty after multiple tours and back fresh from a brief rest in New Zealand, he’s itching to return to action. But the challenge he hoped for arrives in an unexpected form: his sexy yet stern new partner.

The last thing Victoria Ash wants is to work with the new guy—especially one as gorgeous as Adam. His relaxed attitude about their first “easy” assignment together—setting up a private home defense network for a reclusive client—doesn’t impress her. Easy usually means trouble. She’s proved right when Adam discovers that the multiple incursions on the physical and cyber security systems aren’t just glitches. They’re under attack…and there’s a traitor in their midst.

As tension mounts, so does the attraction between Victoria and Adam. They must protect their client and the research he’s desperately trying to keep secret. Working together, they have to find the mole before their defense measures, in the fortress and online, are compromised and the deadly secrets they’ve sworn to protect are revealed.

••••••••

REVIEW: CONTRACTED DEFENSE is the third installment in Piper Drake’s contemporary, adult SAFEGUARD romantic, suspense series focusing on the men and women who work for the SAFEGUARD Division of the Centurion Corporation-military veterans turned mercenaries for hire who specialize in protection and security. This is Safeguard agent Victoria Ash, and former US solider Adam Hicks’ story line. CONTRACTED DEFENSE can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from previous story lines is revealed where necessary but I would recommend reading the series in order as there is an ongoing premise and threat throughout.

Told from dual third person perspectives (Victoria and Adam) CONTRACTED DEFENSE focuses on the Safeguard’s latest assignment-a well to do businessman whose need for protection appears unwarranted. With a well-trained security team already in place, Safeguard sends in Victoria Ash, and newcomer Adam Hicks- Victoria’s one-night stand from the night before, and the man with whom Victoria will fall in love. As Victoria and Adam struggle to ensure their latest contract duties are met, secrets behind the walls of the beautiful estate place our leading couple in a perilous situation. What ensues is the building romance between Victoria and Adam, and the potential fall-out as Safeguard Security falls victim to a former adversary.

The relationship between Victoria and Adam is one of immediate attraction. When Victoria is partnered with her anonymous one-night stand she is reluctant to further explore the attraction between them. Adam is willing to give their relationship a try but Victoria is fresh off a divorce, and the resulting aftermath has hardened her heart. The $ex scenes are intimate and seductive without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

There is a large ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters including Gabriel Diaz and his fiancée Maylin Chen (Hidden Impact #1) , sniper Lizzy Scott (Deadly Testimony #2) : billionaire businessman Roland Edwards; Roland’s in house security team- Dante, Ray, Brian and Jay- a man who struggles with Adam’s presence on his latest assignment.

CONTRACTED DEFENSE continues to focus on the negative rumors circulating throughout the security industry-rumors that are directly affecting Safeguard’s contracts and their bottom line. Their battle with Phoenix Biotech does not appear to be over although their relationship with Seattle law enforcement and the US Marshals office should have garnered most positive coverage.

CONTRACTED DEFENSE is a story of suspense, intrigue, romance and love. The premise is energetic and exciting although the guilty party is easily deduced; the characters are spirited and dynamic; the romance is intimate and intense.

CONTRACTED DEFENSE is a sexy, passionate and dramatic story line that will captivate your attention from the very start.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

—————–

Hidden ImpactHIDDEN IMPACT
(Safeguard #1)
by Piper J. Drake
Genre: adult, contemporary, erotic, romantic suspense

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / itunes /

About the book : November 9, 2015

He’s not the hero she’s looking for…

As part of the elite Centurion Corporation team, military-veteran-turned-mercenary Gabriel Diaz is a natural defender. He’ll do anything to ensure a mission is successful. Anything but get emotionally invested—he learned the hard way that can be deadly. Easy bodyguard jobs in between the more challenging missions are all he’s interested in now.

Maylin Cheng is desperate and running out of time. Her younger sister has gone missing but no one seems to take her concern seriously. Her last hope lies in asking an aloof bodyguard for help. He dismisses her outright, but all that changes when she is almost killed in a not-so-accidental hit-and-run right before his eyes.

As Maylin leans on Gabriel, she begins to rely on him for more than just her safety. But as their attraction grows, so does the danger surrounding them. When the elaborate web they’re trapped in unravels, Gabriel will do anything to protect them. Even if that means putting his heart in the crosshairs.

Book one of the Safeguard series

••••••

REVIEW: HIDDEN IMPACT is the first installment in Piper J. Drake’s contemporary, adult SAFEGUARD romantic, suspense series focusing on the men and women who work for the SAFEGUARD security agency. This is US military veteran/mercenary for hire Gabriel Diaz, and caterer Maylin Cheng’s story line.

Told from dual third person perspectives (Gabriel and Maylin) HIDDEN IMPACT focuses on the search for a missing person. Caterer Maylin Cheng is desperate to locate her sister who was abducted at a genetics conference in China , and her latest catering job brings our heroine up close and personal with the Centurion Corporation- an elite group of former military personnel; private military contractors for hire. Enter Gabriel Diaz, the man with whom Maylin will fall in love. What ensues is the building relationship between Maylin and Gabriel; the search and rescue of An-Mei Cheng; and the revelation that the Centurion Corporation has been targeted from someone once on the inside. The Centurion Corporation is a training center for private military contractors who work ‘outside’ of the US and international laws but there are threats against the mercenaries for hire-threats that are both professional and personal.

The relationship between Maylin and Gabriel is one of immediate attraction but Gabriel knows to fall in love would mean to threaten his position within the Centurion Corporation. Maylin’s attraction to Gabe is palpable, and in this she is determined to seduce the man with whom she is falling in love. Maylin is a strong heroine; and Gabe’s protective nature does not come with the alphahole attitude that many romantic suspense heroes have ingrained. The $ex scenes are intimate and seductive without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

We are introduced to Gabriel’s fellow teammates including sniper Lizzy Scott, Victoria Ash, and her partner Marc; Harte-the man in charge of the Centurion Corporation; and Jewel, Gabriel’s former lover. The requisite evil has many faces including the Edict –another private military contractor out to destroy the Centurion Corporation.

HIDDEN IMPACT is a quick read; an action packed story of intrigue, romance and suspense. The premise is entertaining and exciting; the characters are sexy and colorful; the romance is erotic and passionate.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

Excerpt

Adam stepped back, drawing her attention to him and tapping the dry-erase marker against the palm of one hand. “If one of us was planning an attack on this place, what would we do?”
Easy. Planning an attack was easier in her mind than planning the defense of a place. She immediately ran through any number of possible approaches to gather information about the defenses and security.
And his point hit her right in the chest. “The alarm. It wasn’t to check to see if there was an alarm. It was to time the response from the security team and local police.”
Possibly, it was to time how long it would take for Victoria and Adam to arrive on site.
Adam turned to face her. “There is an impending attack in the works. We have no idea what the scale is or even why. But Roland is not delusional.”
Suddenly, this mission was a whole lot more serious, and Adam, to her eyes, was looking incredibly dangerous.
“Let’s get back to setting up the layered defenses then.” Before she jumped him, right against the wall.

About The author

 

Piper J DrakePiper J. Drake is a bestselling author of romantic suspense and edgy contemporary romance, a frequent flyer, and day job road warrior. She is often distracted by dogs, cupcakes, and random shenanigans.Connect with Piper at: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Google + | GoodReads | Youtube

 

Rafflecopter Giveaway

NOTE: The Reading Cafe is  NOT responsible for the rafflecopter giveaway. If you have any questions, please contact the tour operator.
a Rafflecopter giveaway

Barclay Publicity

Share

Absolute Trust (True Heroes #3) by Piper J. Drake-Review and Book Tour

ABSOLUTE TRUST ( True Heroes #3) by Piper J. Drake-a review and book tour

Absolute Trust Banner

ABSOLUTE TRUST
True Heroes #3
by Piper J. Drake
Release Date: December 20, 2016
Genre: adult, contemporary, romantic suspense

Absolute Trust

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / BAM / iTunes

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date December 20, 2016

LOVE IS THE GREATEST RISK OF ALL

After multiple tours of duty, Brandon Forte returns to his hometown on a personal mission: to open a facility for military service dogs like Haydn, a German shepherd who’s seen his share of combat and loss. It also brings him back to Sophie Kim, a beacon of light in his life . . . and the one woman he can’t have. But Forte’s success means he’s made enemies in high places. Enemies who are now after Sophie . . .

When Forte enlisted and left without saying goodbye, Sophie did her best to move on. But with her first love back in town, looking sexier than ever, she’s constantly reminded of what they could have had. Then after he risks himself for her, Sophie realizes she’ll have to put her life in the hands of the man who broke her heart, knowing the danger -and the sparks between them- could consume them both.

••••••••••••

REVIEW: ABSOLUTE TRUST is the third installment in Piper J. Drake’s contemporary, adult TRUE HEROES romantic, suspense series, This is US Army veteran Brandon Forte, and accountant Sophie Kim’s story line. ABSOLUTE TRUST can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from previous story lines is revealed where necessary.

Told from dual third person perspective (Brandon and Sophie) ABSOLUTE TRUST is a friends to lovers/ second chance story line. Years earlier Brandon walked out of Sophie’s life without explanation only to return hoping to renew their friendship and trust. Brandon owns and works at Hope’s Crossing Kennel retraining military and combat dogs whose previous service have left the canine companions without direction, or suffering from the loss of a previous partner. When Sophie is targeted by an unknown source, Brandon takes responsibility for the woman that he has never stopped loving-a woman whose life he will protect with his own. What ensues is the rekindling of a friendship that turns to love as Brandon and his team struggle to stay one step ahead of the people trying to destroy Sophie’s life.

The relationship between Brandon and Sophie is rife with tangible sexual attraction but an attraction that neither one is willing to admit. Brandon broke Sophie’s heart years earlier, and our heroine battles with her desire for a man who is unwilling to take their friendship to the next level. The $ex scenes are intimate without the use of graphic, erotic language or text.

All of the previous story line couples play secondary and supporting roles: David Cruz and Lyn Jones (Extreme Honor #1); Alex Rojas and Elisa Hall (Ultimate Courage #2). We are introduced to police officer Kymani Graves; Army veteran Raul Sa who currently works for a private military contract organization; as well as a Haydn, a former, military dog who lost not only his previous controller but his front leg as well.

The world building continues to focus on the Hope’s Crossing Kennel, and the work of the members training former military dogs for civilian life, as well as the potential for dogs working with soldiers suffering from PTSD. ABSOLUTE TRUST focuses on the threats against, and attempts on Sophie Kim’s life; and the search for the people responsible and why, as well as the revelation behind the reason Brandon walked away from the woman that he loved.

ABSOLUTE TRUST is a romantic suspense story with a little bit of military background and history. The premise is spirited and gripping; the characters are colorful and animated; the romance is heartwarming and inspiring. With the addition of combat experienced military dogs the warm fuzzies add to the romantic overtone.

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

 

excerpt

 

Between one moment and the next, he was right there next to her, kneeling so they were face to face. She let out the air in her lungs in a rush, not sure of what she wanted to do or what he was planning to do. She parted her lips but didn’t say anything, didn’t want to put another question out there for him to address before he answered the one she really wanted to know.
Because she was hoping he was here for her—not his childhood friend—but for the very adult version of her who’d been waiting for him all this time.
Faster than she could react, his lips caught hers. The contact rushed through her in a lightning shot of surprise. Years of bottled-up frustration bubbled up and she leaned into him with a soft gasp.
And then he pulled back and she was left trying to catch her breath.
Slowly, carefully, he slid his arms around her back and under her knees. He cradled her against his chest and tucked her head under his chin. Circled as she was in his embrace, he held her close. He pressed his lips against her hair.
“That was too close yesterday, Sophie.” His voice was low, gruff, and almost cracked with emotion. “The thought of losing you just about killed me.”


 

Series Spotlight

More books from True Heroes

True Heroes series

Extreme Honor

Get More information at: Goodreads  | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Kobo | iTunes

Ultimate Courage

Get More information at: Goodreads  | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Kobo | iTunes

about the author

Piper J DrakeAbout Piper J. Drake:

Piper J. Drake (or “PJ”) began her writing career as “PJ Schnyder” writing award-winning sci-fi & paranormal romance and steampunk. She has received the FF&P PRISM award for her work as well as the NJRW Golden Leaf award and Parsec award.

Now, Piper writes romantic suspense, incorporating her interests in mixed martial arts and the military into her writing. 

Connect with Piper at: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Google + | GoodReads| Youtube

 

 

rafflecopter giveaway

NOTE: The Reading Cafe is NOT responsible for the rafflecopter giveaway. If you have any questions, please contact the tour promoter.
a Rafflecopter giveaway

Barclay Publicity

Share