Knowing Vera

Chance for Love #3

by Rachelle Ayala

Vera's dating Zach, casually, not committed, when she discovers her long-departed father is the killer of Zach's mother many years ago.

Meanwhile, Zach reevaluates his life after losing his leg in a tragic accident and realizes he's falling in love with Vera.

Can their timing be so wrong? Vera knows the relationship is doomed, but she cannot resist the tugging of her heart and Zach's panty-melting grin.

Caught in a web of family secrets and hidden agendas, Vera and Zach must depend on each other for survival. A dangerous killer is on the loose, and Vera must find the truth, wherever it leads, even if it destroys her chance for love forever.

Knowing Vera is a suspenseful, cross-cultural romance mixing an unsolved murder, adventure, and hot, steamy love scenes

Genres: Romance, Mystery, Romantic Suspense, Amazon, Contemporary Romance, Interracial Romance, Contemporary

276 pages, Paperback

First published September 6, 2013

About the author

Rachelle Ayala is an award-winning USA Today bestselling author of contemporary romance and romantic suspense. She writes emotionally challenging stories but believes in the power of love and hope.

Her book, Knowing Vera, won the 2015 Angie Ovation Award, and A Father for Christmas garnered a 2015 Readers' Favorite Gold Award. Christmas Stray was awarded the 2016 Readers' Favorite Gold Award and A Pet for Christmas had an Honorable Mention. In 2017, her book about a single mother with an autistic son, Playing for the Save, won the 2017 Readers' Favorite Gold Award for Realistic Fiction.

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She is also a writing teacher and founder of the Romance In A Month writing community. She lives in California with her husband and has three children and two birds.

For an updated, printable booklist:
https://www.scribd.com/document/34213...

ROMANTIC SUSPENSE
Broken Build
Hidden Under Her Heart
Knowing Vera

CONTEMPORARY ROMANCE
Taming Romeo
Claiming Carlos
Whole Latte Love
The Remingtons: Leap, Laugh, Love
The Remingtons: Blush of Love
Bad Boys for Hire: Ryker
Bad Boys for Hire: Ken
Bad Boys for Hire: Nick
Laguna Beach: Lucky in Laguna
Sapphire Falls: Going Haywire
Sapphire Falls: Going Toe to Mistletoe
Sapphire Falls: Going Hearts Over Heels

SPORTS ROMANCE
Played by Love
Playing the Rookie
Playing Without Rules
Roaring Hot!
Intercepted by Love
Playing Catch
Playing for the Save

SWEET ROMANCE
Christmas Stray
A Father for Christmas
A Pet for Christmas
A Wedding for Christmas
Christmas Lovebirds
Valentine Hound Dog
Spring Fling Kitty
Blue Chow Christmas
Valentine Wedding Hound

HOLIDAY ROMANCE
Christmas Flirt
Santa's Pet
Deck the Hearts
Her Christmas Chance
Sapphire Falls: Going Toe to Mistletoe
Bad Boys for Hire: Nick

HISTORICAL ROMANCE
Michal's Window

NON-FICTION
Your Daily Bible Verse
Romance In A Month
366 Ways to Know Your Character
Love Stories: Writing a Romance Novella

Reviews

[NA · Rating 3 out of 5]

You know what is my favorite genre? Thriller is my favorite genre; especially when it is combined with romance. So that is the reason I loved this book.
Knowing Vera is one of those books that captivate you from the start. I guess that is the effect of the thriller part. I was dying to know who killed Zach's mother and why didn't his father tell him how his mother died. I wanted to know who is the person that sent the mysterious messages to Vera, was it really her father? Could he have been alive all those years? I kept reading it all the day after school (and I had a physics test next day) but I was hooked, way hooked and couldn't close the book before solving the mystery.
The romance part was also amazing. I loved Zach and Vera. I loved their chemistry. I really thought it was well written. It was simple and realistic. Even if there were times they had took the wrong turns, they were always together sticking together against the odds. I hated what Vera put Zach's through, but at the same time I totally understand why she did it, but I loved how they got over it. Because that how normal relation is about.
Zach's character was my favorite. He is so strong, someone who had faced what he faced would have taken a very dark path, for an athlete who lost a leg (during rescuing someone's life) I believe it was hard for him, he kinda lost his life, but he stood against it and faced it. He is also forgiving and hopeful. I loved how he forgave Vera over and over when she hurt him.
My only complaint that the book needed more description; I felt it was rushed at certain scenes. I needed more explanation for some scenes. I also needed more romance. It was kinda small in a ratio with the thriller scenes in the book.

Overall I liked the book, I hope you read it. I only have an advice for you,, read the first two books or at least the previous book before reading this one because it would make you in the book more.

For more reviews visit http://myaddictionforbooksandcoffee.b...

[Melisa Hamling · Rating 5 out of 5]

This Chance for Love series, well, it just keeps getting better! So I ♥ed Dave in Broken Build, then loved Lucas, but Zach? While we don't see a lot of him in book 2, Hidden Under Her Heart, I knew, just knew he'd be my favorite kind of hero! Even if he was a bad boy previously. So, let me drool over him a little longer here! Okay, just one more, one more swooooney moment... The beach scene! Oh the beach scene ♥. To be Vera in that scene, pantyyy melting!

Alright, down to the review. Am I surprised Ms. Ayala spun yet another who-dunnit suspense that had me guessing 'till the very end? Nah. Not really. She has that great ability to create high suspense and weave in a good romance. Add some seriously special moments, a little message about life and how we're not all perfect, and you get a kick A double S romantic suspense.

And Vera. I totally loved that girl! I want to say she's my favorite out of the three books, but I can't because Jen was an equally favorite. BUT! If you haven't read the first two books, NO problem! They're easily standalone and each has its own story, even though the characters all interlink.

Throughout the novel, I rooted for Vera and Zach, hoping like hell they'd not only survive the twisted mess brought on by deceitful family secrets, including murder, and the havoc brought on by the villains, but pull through as a couple.

My heart rejoiced, and then it leapt in leaps and bounds by the way it ended! Totally ♥ ♥ ♥ this book! (and Zach! Shh. Don't tell Vera!)

And! I know there's more to come in this series, and I also know the next two stories are going to totally suck me in. Soooo can't wait! So hurry up, Ms. Ayala and gettem done 'cause I hate waiting!

[Britt · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow Rachelle Ayala’s fiction novel “Knowing Vera” is an amazing piece of work. Knowing Vera brings a mixture of fiction, drama, and mixes it solidly with murder mystery. Ayala gives a strong young woman the drive to focus on discovering the truth in many facets of her life; whether is love, true happiness and in this case finding the truth about her family and the ties to others that she holds dear to her heart. Vera is this young woman and Ayala gives her a voice and thank goodness the common sense and smarts to navigate through life and face past demons to obtain the truth of who the killers are versus who have been wronged in a past murder that has tainted her life so many years ago.

As a reader, I appreciate the simplicity and straightforward structure Ayala displays within this novel. She did not linger on too much background information it inundate readers and bore them; she gave just enough information to keep readers interesting in the storyline. Also, leaving out just enough information to keep the mystery alive.

When you are forced to reevaluate your family, friends and those you have trusted so long to determine “Do I really know this person, will they harm me” you will then know how Vera felt about all the characters placed in her path (Taytay, Zack, Louie, Cliff). Rachelle Ayala produced an amazing dramatic fiction in “Knowing Vera.” This novel is a quick read that will give you its worth in suspense, drama and romance.

For more of Rachelle Ayala’s books and info check out her website and Facebook page:

http://www.rachelleayala.com
http://www.facebook.com/rachelleayala...

[Diane Rapp · Rating 5 out of 5]

Drama, mystery, and sizzling romance...

Characters introduced in HIDDEN UNDER HER HEART become the main focus in this intense romantic suspense. Vera is afraid to commit to a relationship, but she's also starving for love. She's had a sizzling fling with a former triathlete, Zach Spencer, but she can't let herself love him. He thinks it's because he lost his leg in a tragic accident, but Vera's a nurse and doesn't care about his injury. Her problem is more serious. She's afraid to tell Zack that her father murdered his mother, but deep down she doesn't believe her father really did it.

Vera has been receiving messages from her father, but she witnessed him jumping from Golden Gate Bridge when she was a young girl. Did he survive? Her quest for truth leads her to Australia, where she hopes to uncover the real killer, but Zach and Cliff come along to "protect" her. Two hunky guys each wrangle to get her alone. They claim they want to keep her safe and help find her father. Can she trust either one? Who really murdered Zach's mother? Vera might have witnessed the murder but she can't remember what happened.

As Vera navigates through a maze of deceit and danger, she loses her heart and her willpower. The intense sexual attraction leads to steamy encounters with...no I'm not telling. These scenes might just melt your Kindle if you're not careful! This is a story filled with romance, lust, suspense, and heart-stopping danger. It's a highly recommended read by a talented writer!

[Emerald Barnes · Rating 4 out of 5]

Knowing Vera follows Vera Custodio, a young woman who has a hard time loving. Why? It probably has something to do with the murder she witnessed as a child and the fact that she saw her father jump off the Golden Gate Bridge because he was guilty of the murder.

When Vera met Zach, everything changed for her. She found herself falling in love, but she couldn't love, could she?

Vera's on a journey to find out just how much she can love and while she's dealing with that, she's thrown into a world she never imagined possible. A world where her father might still be alive and innocent, but is what she remembered and what she's being told true?

I loved the mix of sweet romance and suspense. I was riveted as I tried to wrap my head around what was really happening. Was Vera wrong this entire time? What I thought was knew was definitely wrong in the end. I loved it!

It was a great, entertaining read!

[Njkinny (Njkinny's Blog) · Rating 4 out of 5]

One murder, another suicide and a traumatized small girl . Vera Custodio had seen it all and felt it all. Twenty years had passed since that fateful night when everything changed for the worse for her as well as her family. Her father committed suicide by jumping from the "Golden Gate Bridge" after he had supposedly killed a woman named Lillian Spencer and Vera, just a small girl clutching her father's leg as well as her teddy Bing Bing, saw it all. After that it was as if they had all been cursed. Vera lost her voice for a whole year and underwent years of therapy to recover, her mother was never happy again and both her brothers died tragically. There was no happiness and definitely no happy family for her. So she did what she could to cope. Vera became someone who didn't get close to anyone, ever. Even when Zach came along and she felt her heart flutter, she didn't commit and carefully tagged her relationship to him as "friends with benefits" .

Zach Spencer is the very gorgeous and charismatic athlete who has always been a ladies man but an accident leaves him crippled. Later, Vera learns that he is the son of the woman her father killed!
The chemistry between them which suspiciously looked it love before, is something Vera can no longer take the risk of exploring. So she decides to keep Zach at arms length. Zach, on the other side, is a changed man now and fully aware of his love for Vera.

But will these two make it to the stage of a happily-ever-after?
Who is the mysterious person sending messages to Vera urging her to find the real killer of Lillian?
Is her father innocent after all?
And is he also alive?
Is he the "Tatay" person who keeps tabs on her and sends her messages containing info only her father had known?

As Vera races against time and suspicious circumstances to find the truth, her path of discovery of the truth is filled with dangers, unknown forces working against her and a web of lies.

Can she find the truth?
What happened all those years ago that no one is ready to talk about it?
Will her suppressed memory resurface?
How much does Zack know about his mother's death?
Does he suspect her connection to his mother?
Why is someone trying to reopen an otherwise cold case?
Why now?

I was bombarded with all these questions and more as I read Rachelle Ayala's book, Knowing Vera .
Although this is third book in the "Chance for Love" series, I didn't have any problems while reading it as a standalone. It is a complete package in itself. This is the first book by Rachelle that I have read and I am very impressed with her writing style. The plot is meticulously planned and story expertly executed where Rachelle easily keeps the reader guessing till the end and still manages to shock him with her solution to the "Who did it?" mystery. I had several theories as I progressed with the story and I managed to be suspicious of each and every one at one time or the other but the end totally threw me leaving me chuckling and applauding the author for her cleverness.

The characterization is vivid and very sensitively done. Rachelle sketches Vera's pain and longing for her father, her grief at losing her brothers and her sadness at the crack in the relationship with her mother who she thinks blames her for everything that happened twenty years ago. She is also successful in bringing out her conflict with her emotions for Zach and her wistful thinking of a future with him which she knows she can never have!

"If only things were different and I hadn't discovered the truth about our families."

Zach's character is that of a strong person who doesn't wish to let anyone see his incapability with his missing left leg and who is deeply in love with Vera. Ever since his unfortunate accident, he has changed and now wants to cherish everything that he has, including Vera. Where once they were no-strings-attached "friends with benefits", he now wants a future with her and is no longer interested in anything superfluous.
He touched my heart with his devotion to her. He didn't leave her even when so many unfavorable things happened and Vera also jilted him. His selfless love and caring for her was what endeared him to me.

The chance of increasing my vocabulary with some new and very common yet important words in a different language also greatly appealed to me. Now I can say "I love you" and say endearing words in Tagalog. Yippee.. :)

"Mahal kita" (I love you)

A great cross cultural mystery with some very sensuous love scenes and an engaging romance along with a touching side to a family that made sacrifices for the happiness of others, I can safely say that you wont regret reading this great book. A guaranteed page turner which left me very satisfied at the end, not to mention very happy at seeing two people so in love finally find peace and a future with each other. I give "Knowing Vera" a 4 out of 5 and recommend that you read this book as well as the other books in the "Chance for Love" series. I am definitely going to.

Is it love when you feel his pain and would give anything to comfort him, do anything to make him smile and give him a ray of sunshine?
Or is it love when you're drawn into his arms like it's your hiding place, safe, protected, and cherished?
Or is it love when it just is?

I received this book from the author and Book Review Tours and I am very thankful to them. The above review is my personal and unbiased opinion and in no way influenced.

This review is also available on my blog http://njkinny.blogspot.in
Checkout the blog for more reviews..

[Becca · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have read all three books in the Chance For Love series by Rachelle Ayala, and I was equally as blown away by all of them! Every book continues to add on to the others but if you so chose you could read them as stand alones. It is a warning that if you read this story, Knowing Vera, that it wll have some spoilers that were in the other novels. First there was Dave, and then there was Lucas, but now there is Zach in Knowing Vera and I could not help myself but to be rooting for him and all of his struggles. He is briefly mentionde in Hidden Under Heart Heart (Book 2) and I was saddened when that’s all there was on him, but now my Zach yearnings have been fulfilled. He is kind of that character of bad boy persona and now turned ultra sweet after his accident persona. This just makes him all that much more enticing of a character to me.

I am in love with Rachelle Ayala and her writing style of surprise and mystery. She has the greatest ability to create suspense in every little nook and cranny of a story and to have a timeless romance involved in the meanwhile. She has nailed the romantic suspense novel, and I can not wait to see what else she has in store. I recentl spoke to Rachelle and she let on that she is going to be going in a different direction for next novel. I am sure that it will not dissapoint. I was in love with all of the characters from the series, but I loved Vera because of her hardness that she tried to keep on the outside. She reminds me so much of myself. I also loved Jen from the series. Rachelle’s leading ladies are all amazing and will tug at anyone’s heart strings.

Throughout the whole novel of Knowing Vera, I was rooting for Vera and Zach that they would somehow get through all the lies and deceit that were going on with Vera’s family. There were many times where I found myself madder than heck at the situations that they were being put through. There was a lots of lies and twists that were entwined into this story regarding Vera’s father and I was finding myself confused part way through when they started saying that Zach was the bad guy through it all. There was nothing I wanted more than justice to be served for all the bad things. I was so happy with the way that this story ended. I am totally in love with the novel and with the series and it would be one that I would reread whenever I got the chance just because it was that darn good! The next stories are going to have me pulled right in just like this one did and I can not wait for the next installments. Thanks so much Rachelle for a novel well written and for making me a fan of yours for life <3

I received this book to review through Beck Valley Books Book Tours, all the opinions above are 100% my own.

[Bookish Indulgenges with b00k r3vi3ws · Rating 4 out of 5]

http://www.b00kr3vi3ws.in/2014/01/Kno...

“Knowing Vera” is essentially the story of two people connected through series on incidents over the years. On one hand we have Vera Custodio, who was only a little girl when her father committed suicide after allegedly killing a woman name Lillian Spencer. It had been a traumatic event of her life – one that had taken away her voice for over a year and her ‘happily everafter’ forever. On the other hand we have Zach Spencer, a bright athlete whose life is left broken after an accident. Once a ladies’ man and now cripple, Zach has his own share of issues to deal with. And then we go on to find that Lillian Spencer, the lady Vera’s dada allegedly killed, was Zach’s mother! With so much of their past weighing on their shoulder and this new discovery, will Zach and Vera ever find love and happiness with each other?

Rachelle Ayala-has-dun-it AGAIN! If you haven’t read any of her books yet, you have no idea what you are missing out on. And if you have read her books before, especially one from Chance for Love Series, and think that you know what to expect…. Then, well, think again!

Vera is a girl everyone would love to fall in love with. She is sweet and intelligent with a fragile side that makes you wanna take care of her in whatever possible way. We also find out that she is quite a strong girl too. Her experiences make her vary yet she is willing to go as far as it takes her to find the answers she is looking for. Zach on the other hand is not only an eye-candy; he has a heart to match his features. His experiences in life haven’t been all rosy either. When an accident leaves him crippled and takes away his dreams, he doesn’t break down. Instead he re-evaluates life and makes some new dream for him to chase. Bring together these two people and the result is sizzling chemistry! Their characters grow throughout the story and as readers we get to know them practically at a personal level.

One thing that is very consistent about Rachelle Ayala’s novels is her amazing story-telling capability. It reflects in each of her novels as she takes us on a journey with her protagonists who slowly capture our hearts. The way she builds up the mystery is quite good and she manages to maintain the air of curiosity so well that you will not be able to take a guess until she is ready to let you take a guess. Another aspect of Rachelle’s writing is the amazing balance that the author maintains between mystery and romance. Not one aspect gets outshined by the other and that is maintained in this novel too.

If you wanna read a mystery story that curls your toes as well, then this is your book - well after Broken Build. Knowing Vera is a sizzling tale of love and intrigue. Go get your copy now!

[Sally · Rating 4 out of 5]

Have you ever picked up a book and been captivated right from the start? That's how I was with Knowing Vera! I couldn't believe how quickly I had gotten entranced with the live of the main character. At first I was starting to think that Vera and Zach were some how related, I never expected the twist I got in those first couple of pages.

This book was definitely a thrill to read. I stayed up late at night with very heavy eyes to read this, I just couldn't put it down, I wanted to know what happened next, I wanted to see the mystery solved of who really murdered Lillian Spencer. I woke in the night and just couldn't fall back to sleep, I found myself wanting to read the book, I just couldn't resist it's temptation. My husband woke up in the night asking what I was doing? Why was I on my computer so late or early depending on how you looked at it!? I would spend a good three hours reading it in the night, I don't know if it took that long because my eyes were heavy and hard to keep open or if it was just because I was trying to take in as much as I could before falling back to sleep at 6am, either way the book was not nearly finish and I had to pick it up to read it again the next day. I would read it for many days if I needed to. If the book had have been longer, I would have definitely found time somewhere to read it, as often and as long as I could.

Yes, I would say this is definitely a good book to read, I thoroughly enjoyed it. I loved the character of Vera and the tension between her and Zach. The love she so desperately tried to ignore, as to not let anyone get close to her. Even her best friend made comment of how she shut people out, which is something I can relate to. I think we all do it for different reasons, we don't want to experience the pain and heartache to relive memories and feelings that we do desperately desire to forget. It's much easier to shut that part of ourselves off than to risk the pain again.

I enjoyed reading this story, I found it captivating and interesting, from start to finish. I was hopeful for a happy ending, for Vera's dad's name to be cleared of the murderer of Zach's mother. I found it hard to put down for sure. If you're into romance with a little intrigue and mystery then this may be a good book for you to grab a copy of and sit down and read. Just be warned, if you're anything like me, clear your calendar, find a quiet spot where you won't be interrupted and get lost in the life of Vera. It's very easy to do.

[P.C. Zick · Rating 4 out of 5]

Knowing Vera by Rachelle Ayala takes the reader on a wild and suspenseful journey from San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge to Australia’s wine country. The plot turns and twists made my neck hurt and my brain foggy, but the challenge of following all the conflict made for an interesting and exciting journey. Star-crossed lovers missing clues and questions of paternity abound in this romantic thriller. The reader only sees the plot unfolding through Vera’s eyes. The first person point of view allows the suspense to build because all we know is what Vera feels, sees, and unravels one layer at a time.

Ms. Ayala is a talented writer who creates a wide range of fiction. I’m amazed that the author of Knowing Vera also write Michal’s Window and Hidden Under Her Heart. Both of those earlier works are superb examples of her range in writing fiction that compels the reader to love the main characters, flaws and all. That takes knowledge of craft and an innate ability to gauge the correct amount of tension to keep the reader eager to start the next chapter.rachelle-books-2013

The book is filled with scenes of graphic sexual encounters but never does it tumble into the realm of “sex for sex’s sake.” The scenes are crafted to help the reader understand the love between two of the characters and the horror of sexual feelings that arise at inappropriate times with a despicable character.

Knowing Vera is also filled with detailed descriptions of the setting. I particularly enjoyed the descriptions of the Golden Gate Bridge and San Francisco in general because it’s one of my favorite cities, and I’ve walked across the bridge twice and always thought about the emergency phones and the warnings against committing suicide from the bridge. Ms. Ayala’s details are accurate and concise.

If you enjoy romance, tension, suspense, and thrilling and surprising plot twists and outcomes, then I suggest you get your copy of Knowing Vera for your some great reading snuggled up in front of the fireplace with the paperback or your Kindle. You won’t be disappointed.

[Alicia · Rating 4 out of 5]

**** "Knowing Vera" by Rachelle Ayala.

PLEASE NOTE THIS NOVEL IS BOOK THREE IN THE AUSTRALIAN SET BY THIS AUTHOR. SPOILERS IN NOVEL (and potentially in post)

Despite not having read the two prior books in the series, as part of the "Dangerous Encounters" box set, I chose to read "Knowing Vera," as I have always enjoyed other books from this author.

Given that I was reading the book out of order, there was enough detail provided that I had a fairly good idea of what was going on with each character and was able to follow the novel with very few unanswered questions. Despite that, I will go back and read the trilogy in order, despite knowing how it ends.

As per her writing style, Rachelle's characters are always very well written, thus the reader has no trouble understanding their view points, personalities, and actions. As is also part of her writing style, her plot development is in depth and usually contains micro stories within the main story -- all melded very well together.

So as to not give too much away, I thoroughly enjoyed this novel and am glad I read it. It didn't disappoint and was engaging and lively. The only critique I have is that during the time in Australia there did seem that some areas could have been condensed to tighten the story line and reduce the back and forth of Carlos and Zach, which toward the end felt monotonous.

I Ioved the areas of suspense throughout the book and the relationship between Zach and Vera. I loved how Vera grew and changed throughout the novel...and of course I loved the ending.

I would recommend this novel, and this author, to all readers who enjoy suspense and romance. But I would also suggest reading the first two books first (although I don't believe I lost a whole lot by not having done so...)

This title can be found individually, as part of a trilogy box set as well as in the just released "Dangerous Encounters" box set.

[Amber · Rating 4 out of 5]

Knowing Vera by Rachelle Ayala is a story of love and mystery. Vera has your typical Daddy issues. She saw dear Dad jump off the Golden Gate Bridge to his death when she was little. Then she starts getting weird text messages and letters making sound like he is still alive and innocent. If this is the case she has to find him. The search is on.

The first guy ever that she could have feelings for ....Zach there are huge problems. One that Vera keeps pushing him away. The biggest issue would be that Vera discovered her Dad murdered his Mom. Vera feels like Zach would never get past that so she pushes him away and keeps him at arms length.

The setting is in the US and also Australia. Vera goes to Australia on a lead that her father is there. She believes that he is innocent and wants to set his name free so she and Zach can be together. Zach who is originally from Australia goes with her along with a guy her Uncle sends to watch over her. Zach and Vera 's relationship is complex but their love story is one that will make your heart beat a little bit faster.

Bumps in the road on her incredible journey Rachelle Ayala has created a romance you don't want to miss. This book is the 3rd in a series. In my opinion it can definitely be read on its own. I have not read the first two, and did not feel like I had missed out on any of the background at all. I felt like I had picked it up at the beginning of the tale.

I received a complimentary copy of Knowing Vera for reviewing purposes. All opinions are my own.

[Amy Durnez · Rating 5 out of 5]

I got an ebook to review a couple of days ago. Knowing Vera by Rachelle Ayala. It is one the best books I have read lately. Its a romantic and adventures. I want to read these rest of her books.

Vera Custodio has never fallen in love, though she has strong feelings for her friend and sometimes lover, Zach Spencer. Long-forgotten memories resurface when Vera discovers Zach's mother was the woman her father supposedly murdered many years ago.
After losing his leg, former triathlete Zach Spencer reevaluates his life--and realizes he's falling in love with Vera. When she ends their relationship, Zach is determined to prove his love and follows her to Australia in search of the killer.
Caught between a web of family secrets and a deranged adversary, Vera and Zach must depend on each other for survival. Love blossoms, but the truth explodes everything Vera knows about herself. Will she close her heart forever or risk it all for a shot at happily-ever-after?

You want to know more you have to get the book and read it. I could hardly put the book down myself. I hope you enjoy it as much as I have. below are more books Rachelle has wrote. I cant wait to read them.

CHANCE FOR LOVE Series:
#1 Broken Build (Dave & Jen)
#2 Hidden Under Her Heart (Maryanne & Lucas)
#3 Knowing Vera (Zach & Vera)
Author's Note: Each book can be read standalone, but earlier plots will be revealed by reading later books

[Ceecee · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was an exhilarating novel that never ceased to surprise me!

While this is the third novel in the Chance for Love series, Ayala’s done an excellent job of making it stand on its own.

From California to Australia, we follow Vera on a nail-biting adventure as she fights to protect her family, and the man she’s falling for. I was completely consumed by the thrill of finding the truth, and paranoid of every character Vera came in contact with. I felt like the idiot in the movie theater that’s always screaming, “Don’t go in there!”, as she constantly put herself in danger. I was on edge throughout, but it was so much fun!

Zach is the sexy hero that’s had a recent brush with death, and a recent change of heart about commitment. As he fights for Vera’s love and trust, he’s forced to reveal secrets of his own. Unfortunately, I found myself questioning Vera’s main squeeze after a few of her estranged family members exposed Zach’s shady past. Although his disability made him reevaluate his life, there was no guarantee that he was changing for the better.

There were several twists, erotic moments, a few laughs, and some sad realities. The author’s extensive research for this novel was evident, which made for an outstanding story line. Some supporting characters added a stronger sinister presence, while others evened out the playing field with kindness and support.

With murder, suicide, love, betrayal, and revenge, this novel is a must read!

[Gaele · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars
This is the first I have read from this author or series: but the description did read as if it would work as a stand-alone without issue, and I am happy to report that it did just that.

A twisting and turning ride to the end, Vera is a survivor of a horrible past with questions and secrets that haunt her every moment. When her long term friend with benefits, Zach, is starting to express feelings and desires for a stronger relationship with her, he is in an accident and loses a leg.

But there is a mystery to solve and a killer to catch, before he catches her and will she be able to be honest with Zach about her troubled past.

Fast paced, the story managed to provide a sense of logic to the secretive behavior of Vera, but I did still find her to be a little too complacent about the threats and danger. Zach was a bit too balanced after the accident, although it was refreshing to see a sense of his insecurities as well. There were no questions left unanswered at the end of this story, and it did keep engagement and tension throughout, making a very quick and enjoyable read. Enough steam and heat is thrown in to the connection between Zach and Vera, making this a read that is more adult in nature.

I received an eBook from the author for purpose of honest review for Tasty Book Tours. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.

[Kathryn Svendsen · Rating 3 out of 5]

Vera is indeed a character with baggage. She has undergone years of therapy after seeing her father jump off the Golden Gate Bridge. She’s afraid to get close to anyone. And Zach lost his confidence when he lost part of his leg. He’s on the road to recovery now that he has his prosthetic limb and his outlook on what he wants in life has changed.

I liked the author’s development of these two main protagonists. While Vera wavered back and forth between leaving Zach and staying with Zach, ultimately they chose commitment. Rachelle Ayala really shows that love is not all about taking what we can get from someone, but is all about giving all that we can. That was the quality that struck me the most about Zach. Even when Vera rejected him, he was still there for her.

I don’t mind books with romance in them, but I did find the romance scenes in this book to be more on the erotica side.

The mystery of the murder of Zach’s mother was very intriguing and leads Vera to some startling revelations about her family. I like how the author upholds the value of family. There is a lot in this book to keep you guessing right to the end.

I gave this book 3 stars.

Thank you to the publisher who provided a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.

[Victoria Brinius · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am a big fan of this author. I have read the first two books in this series. In Broken Build we get to see Vera as a sister who is mourning the loss of her brother. We get to see her family dynamics and we get to see her start to grow up. Then in Hidden Under Her Heart Vera is the best friend of a rape victim. We got to see her outside of her family and see how she interacted with friends. Hidden Under Her heart really affected me. I could not wait to read this book and see how the characters ended up. When I started to read I was so excited that Vera finally got her own book. She was such an older, and wiser character. Her character development throughout the series was worth the read. Then I got to read about the killer and how Vera's dad and Zach's mom were intertwined really had me wondering until the end. Zach had his own issues and I was so happy that he was the one that loved Vera. I can not wait for more books in this series. I am giving this book a 5/5. I was given a copy to review, however all opinions are my own.

I received this book to review through Beck Valley Books Book Tours, all the opinions above are 100% my own.
- See more at: http://dealsharingaunt.blogspot.com/2...

[Donna Jane · Rating 5 out of 5]

The book was really good especially that the character is from my place , Philippines. Well , Vera yes indeed have a love that can relate to many Filipina. As what I thought, I fully understand her dilemmas in falling in love. Avoiding and keeping herself from falling to someone , that is a very great challenge! I was grateful that I was able to read the book especially because it has a Filipina character. I have loved the story from the very beginning that's why I gave it 5 out of 5! My favorite genre was romance and I don't want it plain, I want it lavish, catchy and r-e-a-l-i-s-t-i-c ! Well I can relate to Vera, the pain, agony and repentance she had experience , I felt the same while I read the pages. That's how a good book is, when the reader starts to react, e with the book and share feelings to the characters. This book got me!

The story not only follows Vera's investigation in find out the truth behind and what really happened, but also to discover if she can finally let herself go and accept that Zach may truly be in love with her. With Vera, not so sure of the love Zach has for her... that is really realistic, I have experienced that too! Two thumbs up! :)

[Elizabeth Towns · Rating 4 out of 5]

Vera Custodio holds the keys that will unlock 3 families from a history that has them bound. Loyalty, murder, safety and love are all weaved throughout Rachelle Ayala’s novel. At the end of the day, this is a classic love There are so many story lines that I am not sure how she brings them all back together to culminate in a surprising twist of fate ending. She does, which is a testament to her writing skill.
Ayala keeps the characters distinct and weaves different cultures together, even providing recipes and a musical truth that authenticate the Filipino culture and giving great insight into the world of an amputee. Ayala allows the reader to see life through the eyes of a man who was once in complete control of all of his limbs to one living as an amputee – and the challenges Zach Spencer faces are sometimes surprising.
I was on the edge of my seat through out the action packed story, waiting for the next plot twist to unwind or the next scene to amp up. It’s almost an amazing race to see who gets to the truth – either to uncover it or to kept it hidden under all the layers of deception.

[Lyssa · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a crazy book! Vera and Zach are friends of Maryanne and Lucas from "Hidden Under Her Heart." I love when stories continue on like that, but I wish I'd gotten to find out a little bit more about what happens with Maryanne and Lucas. I think this story isn't about them, but still I guess it's the nosiness in me!


The story starts a few months after Zach has lost his leg and Vera's stayed by his side. During his recovery time, Vera has discovered that Zach's mother was murdered by her father who died shortly there after. Once she finds out that he's not dead, the drama and excitement begins!


First off, Vera is a much braver girl than I am. She's put into these situations that she doesn't know who to trust. Throughout the story, I want to be her big sister and scream at her because she's putting herself in more danger! And Zach, sometimes...he's such a man! I can't believe Vera would run back to him, but such is love, right? This is definitely, can't put the book down, want to keep reading until I know what happens, have to finish right now books so grab get your copy today!

[Annamaria · Rating 5 out of 5]

Suspense!

Romance!

Heat!

Yes, they are all in Knowing Vera. I’m not much of a Romance reader, but when they have murder, mystery and danger, I’m captured.

The intrigue that unfolds in Knowing Vera kept me turning page after page until there was no more.

I felt the beginning was a bit slow starting, but just a few chapters into the book and I couldn’t put it down.

Rachelle is very good at weaving mystery and intrigue into her steamy romance novels. The situations she depicts together with the word choices she makes to describe them captivate her audience.

From the US to Australia and even onto a deserted island she intertwines murder, suspense with the uncertainty of love.

The strong desire to see her father sends Vera into a chase that puts her life in peril. Definitely a must if you love romance veiled in mystery and suspense.

If you want a good suspenseful romance grab a copy of Knowing Vera today.

[Leila · Rating 5 out of 5]

I could not put this book down. No joke. If I didn’t have 3 kids to watch over and didn’t have to wake up well before I’d like to get the kids to school, the book would have been finished in one day. But since I do have 3 kids to watch over and I did have to get up early to take my big kids to school, I didn’t quite finish it all in one day. I finished three quarters in one day because I just couldn’t put it down!

This is a great romance and “who done it” mystery – my favorite kind of read!

Knowing Vera is the third book in the series, but you really couldn’t tell. I got that I missed some things in the previous two books that I would love to read and put all the pieces together, but it wasn’t necessary to have read the first two in order to read this one.

I enjoyed every second of this book and will be going back and reading the first two – if they are anything like Knowing Vera, they will be fabulous! I’m sure of it!

[Danelle Our-Wolves-Den · Rating 5 out of 5]

Knowing Vera grabs you right from the beginning, I don't remember a simple prologue being so descriptive or heart wrenching.

The tangled web of a story that unfolds will keep you on your mind guessing at who is or is not to blame. Throwing in a romance adds another wonderful layer to this story. This is one of those novels that you really should schedule time to read, once started you will not be able to put it down until the very last page. A little teaser for you: Did her father really die before her own eyes? Is he still alive, trying to connect with her? Who is the villain? Who is not? Will she find her "happy ending" in love? Or is it all for not?

I highly recommend reading all of Rachelle Ayala's novels, she has a unique way of capturing a readers attention and keeping it to the absolute end. I feel as if I am slightly now becoming obsessed with her books, wanting more and more.

[Chantel Rhondeau · Rating 5 out of 5]

From the very start of this book, it hooked me. Vera has a great voice and I just loved the way she looks at things and her determination. Zach is totally swoon-worthy and a great hero who will capture your heart. Things are hot between these two, despite Vera's questions and hesitations. I felt so bad for Vera, since she's had a tough time of things and recent events make her life even harder. She can't fully give her heart to Zach until she knows the truth about her past and can lay to rest some family secrets.

Honestly, I didn't figure out the ultimate mystery behind the book until the author revealed it, though I had plenty of theories and questions. Exciting and suspenseful, I thought Vera's race for the truth was entertaining. I'll eagerly look forward to Rachelle's next book. Highly recommend this. Loved it!

[Chantel Rhondeau · Rating 5 out of 5]

From the very start of this book, it hooked me. Vera has a great voice and I just loved the way she looks at things and her determination. Zach is totally swoon-worthy and a great hero who will capture your heart. Things are hot between these two, despite Vera's questions and hesitations. I felt so bad for Vera, since she's had a tough time of things and recent events make her life even harder. She can't fully give her heart to Zach until she knows the truth about her past and can lay to rest some family secrets.

Honestly, I didn't figure out the ultimate mystery behind the book until the author revealed it, though I had plenty of theories and questions. Exciting and suspenseful, I thought Vera's race for the truth was entertaining. I'll eagerly look forward to Rachelle's next book. Highly recommend this. Loved it!

[Adriana · Rating 4 out of 5]

My review:

Knowing Vera by Rachelle Ayala has turned out to be a well-written novel, in my opinion. It is my kind of book and it has it all. Romance with mystery and suspense while scenes were believable. When Vera meets Zach (BTW - I secretly wanted to be Vera) amorous scenes kept me reading while my need of wanting to know more keeping me sort of hypnotized. Turmoil sets in around family secrets needing to see the light to then be put to rest. How many times I just said, “No, this is not happening!” Complexities and faith entwined with trust gave the novel an essence not present in many stories turning out to be one of the best novels I have read so far.

With the Christmas around the corner, Knowing Vera by Rachelle Ayala would make a fantastic stocking stuffer. Happy Reading.

AG-LANG

[Rachael · Rating 4 out of 5]

I haven't read any of the other books in this series, but this did not affect the book at all. I very much liked the range of characters that Ayala put into this book, especially the range of backgrounds and the detailed histories of each. I really enjoyed reading about Vera's history and her family background and I felt this really gave the whole book a little something extra. I also loved Zach's background and storyline especially - he is so easy to like and a brilliantly written character.



The book is well written, easy to read and thoroughly enjoyable. It even surprises as there are many elements that would be difficult to predict - unlike so many other romances.



I would really recommend you reading this - I am off to grab the others in the series.

[LeahSay's Views Bonnie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book has it all suspense, intrigue, romance and steamy love scenes. The suspense kept me reading way beyond the time slot I had allowed, but I love that in a good book. Loosing myself in the pages is always a sign of a good book. The book starts out with a shattering event that will tie Zach and Vera together. Vera makes the connection to their past when Zack in hospitalized. Zach and Vera have an intertwined past filled with secrets, lies and betrayal, which they will need to work through and Zach will need to keep Vera safe while they work out their differences. All the while Vera is receiving emails from… If you like rooting for the underdog this will be the book for you. Being handicapped I felt a pull toward this book. Kudos!
I received a copy to facilitate my review.

[Kim Cano · Rating 5 out of 5]

Vera is not the kind of person I could easily relate to, but I grew to care for and understand her the more I read this book. She's extremely guarded with her emotions and I was rooting for her to open up so she and Zach could find true happiness. The family drama between them threatens to keep them apart, and as a reader I was taken halfway around the world to Australia to solve the mystery. It's not an easy to figure out whodunnit, and it kept me guessing throughout. I liked that this story shows how true love takes work and doesn't always come in neat little packages.
Vera also does a lot of cooking and it made me really hungry while I was reading. The cool part is Vera's recipes are in the back of the book. A yummy bonus.

[Cate Beauman · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed Vera and Zach's story very much! I found myself instantly involved from the first page. Vera is endearing, and I enjoyed the opportunity to learn more about her culture as I got to know her better. Zach is a cutie! I wondered for quite a time whether Zach was just a playboy playing or if he was truly after Vera's heart. The story unfolds in both San Francisco and Australia, which only added to the fun of this action-packed thriller. If you're looking for a story that keeps you guessing until the end while immersing the readers with engaging, likable characters, this book is for you! I can't wait to see what Ms. Ayala comes up with next!