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Colorado Mountain #6
Kaleidoscope
When old friends become new lovers...anything can happen.
Sexy, gifted, and loyal, PI Jacob Decker is a tall, cool drink of perfection who had Emmanuelle Holmes at "hello." His relationship with Emme's best friend kept them apart for years, but things have changed. Now that a case has brought him to Gnaw Bone, Colorado, the road is wide open for Emme and Deck to explore something hotter and deeper than Emme dreamed possible. So why is she sabotaging the best thing that's ever happened to her?
It isn't easy to catch Deck off guard, but Emme does just that when she walks back into his life after nine long years. The curvy brunette had her charms back in the day, but now she's a bona fide knockout . . . and she wants to rekindle their friendship. Deck, however, wants more. Emme's always been the one; she excites Deck's body and mind like no other woman can. But a dark chapter from Emme's past overshadows their future together. Now only Deck can help her turn the page-if she'll let him . . .
Sexy, gifted, and loyal, PI Jacob Decker is a tall, cool drink of perfection who had Emmanuelle Holmes at "hello." His relationship with Emme's best friend kept them apart for years, but things have changed. Now that a case has brought him to Gnaw Bone, Colorado, the road is wide open for Emme and Deck to explore something hotter and deeper than Emme dreamed possible. So why is she sabotaging the best thing that's ever happened to her?
It isn't easy to catch Deck off guard, but Emme does just that when she walks back into his life after nine long years. The curvy brunette had her charms back in the day, but now she's a bona fide knockout . . . and she wants to rekindle their friendship. Deck, however, wants more. Emme's always been the one; she excites Deck's body and mind like no other woman can. But a dark chapter from Emme's past overshadows their future together. Now only Deck can help her turn the page-if she'll let him . . .
383 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 4, 2014
574 people are currently reading
8011 people want to read
About the author
Kristen Ashley
138 books39.5k followersKristen Ashley was born in Gary, Indiana, USA. She nearly killed her mother and herself making it into the world, seeing as she had the umbilical cord wrapped around her neck (already attempting to accessorise and she hadn't taken her first breath!).
Kristen grew up in Brownsburg, Indiana but has lived in Denver, Colorado and the West Country of England. Thus she has been blessed to have friends and family around the globe. Her posse is loopy (to say the least) but loopy is good when you want to write.
Kristen was raised in a house with a large and multi-generational family. They lived on a very small farm in a small town in the heartland and existed amongst the strains of Glenn Miller, The Everly Brothers, REO Speedwagon and Whitesnake (and the wardrobes that matched).
Needless to say, growing up in a house full of music, clothes and love was a good way to grow up.
And as she keeps growing up, it keeps getting better.
Kristen grew up in Brownsburg, Indiana but has lived in Denver, Colorado and the West Country of England. Thus she has been blessed to have friends and family around the globe. Her posse is loopy (to say the least) but loopy is good when you want to write.
Kristen was raised in a house with a large and multi-generational family. They lived on a very small farm in a small town in the heartland and existed amongst the strains of Glenn Miller, The Everly Brothers, REO Speedwagon and Whitesnake (and the wardrobes that matched).
Needless to say, growing up in a house full of music, clothes and love was a good way to grow up.
And as she keeps growing up, it keeps getting better.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,742 reviews
August 10, 2016
That's the moment you realize you read a KA book that you actually struggled to finish.
Now KA fans, you may want to avert your eyes
Because what's to follow is full on rant...
WHAT THE HELL DID I JUST READ?!
Because that could not have been a KA book. It just couldn't be. It had nothing of what makes a KA book, NONE OF IT. The amazing OTT suspense and action? Won't find it here. The girl talk and witty/funny banter between all the girlfriends? Forget about it! The sexual chemistry between the H/h? Meh...let's call it KA lite for this. A book that you devour and don't ever want to end? Nope. I have never struggled more to finish a book. The fact that I didn't DNF it and did in fact finish?
I have felt the quality of KA books slowly decline ever since she got published. Don't get me wrong, I still love the hell out of her and read every single book that comes out...but they just haven't been the same. With each new book it seems like more and more of her voice disappears from her writing. It's almost as if the publisher is going
Now the last few books weren't bad. I didn't LOVE them, but I did still enjoy them. This one? Aside from Deck's alpha maleness, I doubt I enjoyed anything else. I was bored out of my ever loving mind.
I may be biased here. I have been waiting for what feels like forever for Frankie and Benny, and I'm still not sure why Deck would get a book before them. Deck was introduced in Breathe, and while I may have been slightly curious about him, I can't say I was anticipating his book all that much. I think his story could have been handled the same as Wood's. As in maybe give him a HEA as a side plot, but not in his own book.
The entire book felt...forced. It didn't have a natural flow to it. I never got invested in the characters. I stopped caring about them entirely about 25% in. It almost felt like a filler, if that even makes sense. Lackluster is the best word I can use to describe this.
The fact that I just gave my beloved KA a 2 star rating?
Breaks my heart. Now I may end up in the minority with my opinion here, so don't throw things at me if you do end up enjoying it. I have been a huge fan of KA ever since I read Mystery Man. I have read all her books. But this one just pales in comparison to what I know her writing can be.
**ARC courtesy of publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review**
For more reviews visit
May 8, 2017
3 Not what they use to be Stars
Okay I don't know what is going on in this series but the last two books I read have not been good for me! I don't really feel like writing a big ol' review on a book that was boring at points and just okay at others, so Short sweet and to the point...... I don't really know what it was but something was off about this book. Different from other KA books I have read. I loved Jacob which is why this book got a 3 star instead of a 2. Jacob was all I loved. Everything else left me feeling underwhelmed. The whole plot, Emme, her past demons, and her and Jacob's relationship felt superficial. There was no depth. The book just touched the surface of her past pain, and their love. When the book is 400 pages and I feel like there is no depth to all that, it means I read a ton of boring filler. I stopped and started this book so many times. OCD always keeps me coming back for more. Emma I didn't really feel like I got to know well and the little bit I did get I didn't care for. She was colder, bland, and so standoffish that she was very one 1 dimensional. I didn't connect to her at all and I thought Jacob could do better. Also She kept saying Have Mercy over and over and it drove me fuckin' nuts. What is she Uncle Jesse???
Okay I don't know what is going on in this series but the last two books I read have not been good for me! I don't really feel like writing a big ol' review on a book that was boring at points and just okay at others, so Short sweet and to the point...... I don't really know what it was but something was off about this book. Different from other KA books I have read. I loved Jacob which is why this book got a 3 star instead of a 2. Jacob was all I loved. Everything else left me feeling underwhelmed. The whole plot, Emme, her past demons, and her and Jacob's relationship felt superficial. There was no depth. The book just touched the surface of her past pain, and their love. When the book is 400 pages and I feel like there is no depth to all that, it means I read a ton of boring filler. I stopped and started this book so many times. OCD always keeps me coming back for more. Emma I didn't really feel like I got to know well and the little bit I did get I didn't care for. She was colder, bland, and so standoffish that she was very one 1 dimensional. I didn't connect to her at all and I thought Jacob could do better. Also She kept saying Have Mercy over and over and it drove me fuckin' nuts. What is she Uncle Jesse???
February 4, 2014
Happy Release Day, Kristen Ashley!!
It's not often a book keeps me up all night because I'm so caught up in the story I just can't put it down, but Kaleidoscope has done that. I'm not lying when I say I was a weeeeeeeeeeeeee bit worried this would fall short of capturing my attention and my alphaman-love, but it surpassed my expectations in a big way. It's an awesome story, and I loved the re-visit with some of romance's greatest alpha heroes and their women. And true, this, Deck and Emme's happily ever after is hard fought, well deserved, and a thing of beauty!
And hot? Ho-leeeheeehee hell!!
Thank you, Kristen Ashley, for giving us this story, and keeping me up all night basking in it!
ARC received from the publisher in return for an honest review. What a pleasure!
TEASER CHAPTERS ARE UP!!!
January 7, 2014 Facebook Update
You asked for it, you got it!
Teaser chapters for KALEIDOSCOPE are up now. Just go to my website and scroll down.
Remember, when I throw this kind of thing out there, tends to be a lot of people hit the website to download so if you get an error, just try again. You'll get your shot!
And last, this book is available for pre-order now - but only in the US and Canada. You know me, though, I'll have it available via Amazon internationally on its release day, February 4, 2014, so everyone can get back to the mountains!
Rock on!
http://www.kristenashley.net/
COVER REVEAL!!!
November 6, 2013 Facebook Update
And your last shot of goodness, the fabuloso cover reveal for the upcoming KALEIDOSCOPE, Deck and Emme's story due out February 4, 2014.
I think Deck's got it in him to fill that house with goodness, don't you?
That's it, Rock Chicks! Hope you liked your triple shot of goodness this Wednesday morning!
Rock on!
Wooot! It's official, straight from Kristen Ashley's fingertips!
Kaleidoscope - is the 6th book in the Colorado Mountain series.
Release date is February 4th, 2014.
Deck and Emme's story!
Deck was mentioned in Breathe, for those of us who have trouble keeping those hot, sexy males straight in our minds!
----
If you're already a Kristen Ashley addict, or interested in checking out her books, be sure to stop by our Kristen Ashley Addict's Support Group here on Goodreads!
December 15, 2013
4-4.5 beautiful stars!
When I heard Jacob Decker was getting his own story I was all kinds of excited! Deck is a PI. He’s best friends with Chace (Breathe). He’s helping with a case in Gnaw Bone when he runs into a familiar voice. He doesn’t recognize her face from a distance, but he’d know that voice anywhere. Emme. His Emme. Emme was best friends with Deck’s ex. They always had a special bond. But Emme has changed in the past nine years. She looks different, but good. Really good. They start chatting and it’s like no time has past at all. Emme is seeing someone, but it’s not serious. She and Deck start to hang out. Rekindle their friendship.
Emme has had feelings for Jacob Decker for as long as she could remember. When her ex best friend dumped him, she was shocked. Jacob was perfect. Who would do something like that? Emme was mostly sad that she lost touch with this man she cared for so much. But she wants a shot to have Jacob in her life. Whatever way she can have him. Over the last few years, Emme spent some time sick. It made her realize how alone she truly was. She is trying to change that, but the guy she’s with (who adamantly gives her the creeps) isn’t that guy. Jacob Decker, now he’s a whole different story. He’s everything she ever wanted and it scares her to death.
Jacob wants to be more than just friends with Emme. It’s obvious. He wants her. Emme is a little freaked about it. She’s not very experienced and she feels they’re moving fast, but we all know how those alpha men are...
Jacob and Emme’s chemistry was explosive! They’ve always had a connection, a spark. Deck just didn’t know what it meant when they first met. 9 years have passed... he finally knows and he needs to pursue it. Nothing will get in his way. Emme doesn’t let anyone get to close, she doesn’t let anyone in. Something traumatic happened to her as a child and she’s never addressed it the right way, which means she’s never got passed it. She has her parents, siblings, and a few friends, but never lets anyone get too close. Jacob has always been the ideal guy. He’s nice, smart, sweet and a great friend. He also dated Emme’s ex-best friend for years. She thought he never saw her like that way, seeing her now, he totally does.
Everything isn’t smooth sailing for this couple. Emme has issues she has to get past. Things she has to face to be able to move on with her life. Jacob means so much to her, she wants to do that. Move on.
I adore friends to lovers stories. It was nice that the two mc’s had a past, a history. Their relationship was beautiful. Emme was the best kind of quirky, she was funny, cute and sweet. Jacob Decker was another amazing KA alpha. He had that tough, protective male side, but he was also very smart, kind and understanding. Jacob Decker... How can a tough alpha man be so damn lovable? I really did adore this guy! I had a few moments of frustration with Emme, but overall she was a likable character. I got her. I got where she was coming from.
This had all the wonderful elements of a CM Kristen Ashely book. Romance, steam, suspense and humor. Although it didn’t compare to books like Lady Luck or Sweet Dreams (IMO) it was better than Jagged for me. As much as I liked the story, I felt a few of their obstacles with her ex, their issues, the big conflict in the story was anti-climactic in a way. This wasn’t a short book necessarily, but compared to some of the earlier CM books, it was a little on the short side. The ending and epilogue felt a little rushed to me. Overall, still a worthy read!
**ARC provided by Forever (Central Grand Publishing) via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review**
When I heard Jacob Decker was getting his own story I was all kinds of excited! Deck is a PI. He’s best friends with Chace (Breathe). He’s helping with a case in Gnaw Bone when he runs into a familiar voice. He doesn’t recognize her face from a distance, but he’d know that voice anywhere. Emme. His Emme. Emme was best friends with Deck’s ex. They always had a special bond. But Emme has changed in the past nine years. She looks different, but good. Really good. They start chatting and it’s like no time has past at all. Emme is seeing someone, but it’s not serious. She and Deck start to hang out. Rekindle their friendship.
Emme has had feelings for Jacob Decker for as long as she could remember. When her ex best friend dumped him, she was shocked. Jacob was perfect. Who would do something like that? Emme was mostly sad that she lost touch with this man she cared for so much. But she wants a shot to have Jacob in her life. Whatever way she can have him. Over the last few years, Emme spent some time sick. It made her realize how alone she truly was. She is trying to change that, but the guy she’s with (who adamantly gives her the creeps) isn’t that guy. Jacob Decker, now he’s a whole different story. He’s everything she ever wanted and it scares her to death.
Jacob wants to be more than just friends with Emme. It’s obvious. He wants her. Emme is a little freaked about it. She’s not very experienced and she feels they’re moving fast, but we all know how those alpha men are...
“This is, well... kinda weird.” Understatement! “And fast.” Extreme understatement! “Met you twelve years ago and we’re just gettin’ here. I don’t call that fast. I call that a waste of fuckin’ time. I’m about to rectify.”
Jacob and Emme’s chemistry was explosive! They’ve always had a connection, a spark. Deck just didn’t know what it meant when they first met. 9 years have passed... he finally knows and he needs to pursue it. Nothing will get in his way. Emme doesn’t let anyone get to close, she doesn’t let anyone in. Something traumatic happened to her as a child and she’s never addressed it the right way, which means she’s never got passed it. She has her parents, siblings, and a few friends, but never lets anyone get too close. Jacob has always been the ideal guy. He’s nice, smart, sweet and a great friend. He also dated Emme’s ex-best friend for years. She thought he never saw her like that way, seeing her now, he totally does.
Everything isn’t smooth sailing for this couple. Emme has issues she has to get past. Things she has to face to be able to move on with her life. Jacob means so much to her, she wants to do that. Move on.
I adore friends to lovers stories. It was nice that the two mc’s had a past, a history. Their relationship was beautiful. Emme was the best kind of quirky, she was funny, cute and sweet. Jacob Decker was another amazing KA alpha. He had that tough, protective male side, but he was also very smart, kind and understanding. Jacob Decker... How can a tough alpha man be so damn lovable? I really did adore this guy! I had a few moments of frustration with Emme, but overall she was a likable character. I got her. I got where she was coming from.
This had all the wonderful elements of a CM Kristen Ashely book. Romance, steam, suspense and humor. Although it didn’t compare to books like Lady Luck or Sweet Dreams (IMO) it was better than Jagged for me. As much as I liked the story, I felt a few of their obstacles with her ex, their issues, the big conflict in the story was anti-climactic in a way. This wasn’t a short book necessarily, but compared to some of the earlier CM books, it was a little on the short side. The ending and epilogue felt a little rushed to me. Overall, still a worthy read!
**ARC provided by Forever (Central Grand Publishing) via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review**
April 22, 2016
2 Stars
Believe it or not, it's taken me over a year to finish this book...A KRISTEN ASHLEY BOOK!!! No matter how hard I tried, I found myself repeatably setting it aside. I just couldn't get into the story. Oh well, you can't love them all.
Believe it or not, it's taken me over a year to finish this book...A KRISTEN ASHLEY BOOK!!! No matter how hard I tried, I found myself repeatably setting it aside. I just couldn't get into the story. Oh well, you can't love them all.
March 4, 2014
Two and a half weeks later …
That alone should have told me something, the fact that it took me nearly three weeks to finish a KA book. I have read the 2, 3, 4 even 5 star reviews. It pains me to give it only 3 and it is getting a 3 because I liked the Epilogue.
”Fuckin’ nuts, but now knowin’ the whole story, it isn’t that interesting.”
I am really trying to muster up some enthusiasm to write a review. You know me, if I love a book my updates are usually neverending. I think I posted one or two updates for this…..
The whole time I was reading this a song was going through my head. By VILLAGERS, a young Irish band…. One of the lines is …
I waited for Something, and Something died
So I waited for Nothing, and Nothing arrived
I really felt like NOTHING HAPPENED in this book. Sure Deck was hot, we got to meet some of the guys again. Emme, I really have nothing to say about her..... sure she was beautiful and dressed nicely but, she was just "blah"!
Even the poor dog did nothing for me. I felt as miserable as he looked while reading this one.
Have I given up on KA? Not by a long shot but I hope her next one is a better read than this.
The “whispering” does it every time for me…. It drives me nuts!! There was another KA book that I DNF because of the fecking whispering…. The word was used 151 times in this book. Maybe not a lot for a book this length but too much for me.
He whispered.
She whispered.
March 11, 2014
3.5 Color, Beauty and KA Stars
"You think you lost beauty, but you didn’t.
Just turn the dial."
Deck once had beauty within his grasp but he let it fly away.
Emme doesn't realize that she has secluded herself in shadows.
They share a past and now they are determined to build a future. Will color prevail or shadows will keep them apart?
I will keep this one short and sweet, because it's KA and I can't help being biased. God.... I'm in love with this woman! She keeps delivering and making us believe in fairytales and sexy, super-smart alpha males that will move mountains for the women they love.
This is the case with this one as well. I might not have loved it but it doesn't disappoint. My main complaint is the seemingly distant heroine. Emme is awesome and kickass but somehow I couldn't connect with her or get her reasoning. Also the suspense/mystery factor in this one was almost non-existent and I missed the sense of dread towards the book's ending that is usual with Kristen Ashley's books. Overall, a book I really liked but not my KA favourite. And if you are a KA newbie this isn't the book you should start with.
Love you Kristen!
*ARC received via NetGalley, courtesy of Forever (Grand Central Publishing), in exchange for an honest review*
Pre-ARC thoughts...
YAAAAAAAAAAAAY! More Colorado Mountain Men to swoon over...
Expected publication: February 4th 2014
"You think you lost beauty, but you didn’t.
Just turn the dial."
Deck once had beauty within his grasp but he let it fly away.
Emme doesn't realize that she has secluded herself in shadows.
They share a past and now they are determined to build a future. Will color prevail or shadows will keep them apart?
I will keep this one short and sweet, because it's KA and I can't help being biased. God.... I'm in love with this woman! She keeps delivering and making us believe in fairytales and sexy, super-smart alpha males that will move mountains for the women they love.
This is the case with this one as well. I might not have loved it but it doesn't disappoint. My main complaint is the seemingly distant heroine. Emme is awesome and kickass but somehow I couldn't connect with her or get her reasoning. Also the suspense/mystery factor in this one was almost non-existent and I missed the sense of dread towards the book's ending that is usual with Kristen Ashley's books. Overall, a book I really liked but not my KA favourite. And if you are a KA newbie this isn't the book you should start with.
Love you Kristen!
*ARC received via NetGalley, courtesy of Forever (Grand Central Publishing), in exchange for an honest review*
Pre-ARC thoughts...
YAAAAAAAAAAAAY! More Colorado Mountain Men to swoon over...
Expected publication: February 4th 2014
June 25, 2021
#1 The Gamble — 4.25 stars
#2 Sweet Dreams — 4.5 stars
#3 Lady Luck — 4 stars
#4 Breathe — 3.5 stars
#6 Kaleidoscope — 3.5 stars
the same KA, but not the usual KA...
it was rather short for a KA book, and that was bcs it lacked the suspenseful, action-filled plot and girl posse shenanigans i was used to associating KA books with.
it focused more on the leads and their (estranged) friends to lovers, what youre looking for is right in front of you typa romance. the climax was more about them (mainly the h) overcoming their past demons.
still, i think that the characters were well developed, and their relationship was all kinds of emotional and sweet. it was a beautiful (in a profound sorta way) love story tbh, especially with the significance of the kaleidoscope.
(read as an audiobook)
#2 Sweet Dreams — 4.5 stars
#3 Lady Luck — 4 stars
#4 Breathe — 3.5 stars
#6 Kaleidoscope — 3.5 stars
the same KA, but not the usual KA...
“This is, well... kinda weird.” Understatement! “And fast.” Extreme understatement! “Met you twelve years ago and we’re just gettin’ here. I don’t call that fast. I call that a waste of fuckin’ time. I’m about to rectify.”
it was rather short for a KA book, and that was bcs it lacked the suspenseful, action-filled plot and girl posse shenanigans i was used to associating KA books with.
“You love me but won’t let yourself have me.” “I—” “And, baby,” he lifted his hand to my jaw and dropped his face closer to mine, “I’m gonna figure out why. Fix what’s broke in you. Then turn my attention to givin’ you the best life I can for the rest of the time you’re on this earth breathin’. ”
it focused more on the leads and their (estranged) friends to lovers, what youre looking for is right in front of you typa romance. the climax was more about them (mainly the h) overcoming their past demons.
“Cause you piss me off. You make me laugh. You make me think. You’re absolutely fine with me bein’ nothin’ but me. You’re fuckin’ gorgeous. You’re a great lay. And you like my dog.”
still, i think that the characters were well developed, and their relationship was all kinds of emotional and sweet. it was a beautiful (in a profound sorta way) love story tbh, especially with the significance of the kaleidoscope.
(read as an audiobook)
February 11, 2014
2.5 Say it Aint So Stars
Sitting there, all that was Jacob, and all that being spectacular sitting across from me, holding my eyes, I finally understood that the reason I was angry at my friend was because, in throwing Jacob away, she took him away from me.
Emme and Jacob “Deck” Decker’s story picks up nine years after they last saw each other. Deck was dating Emme’s bff so the two were used to spending lots of quality time together. When Elspeth, aforementioned bff, dumped Deck due to what she thought was his lack of earning potential, Emme and Deck both knew they were losing each other at the same time. Emme chose to commemorate the occasion by giving Deck a Kaleidoscope so he could always see beauty. Most twenty eight year old guys I know wouldn’t get that deeper meaning but I’m choosing to overlook that. He’s had a tiny piece of her with him all of this time so when he runs into her nine years later on the streets of Gnaw Bone, Colorado either one of them waits long to reconnect. Even though Emme’s dating a man who might be part of an organized crime ring and Deck’s not quite sure where her involvement might lie. But that’s neither here nor there.
I had issues with this story pretty much from the beginning. It’s missing so much of what I’ve come to love about a Kristen Ashley book and I want the old, non-traditionally published KA back and pronto! I used to be one of those readers that bitched “do I really need to know the exact color of lace Lauren’s sporting on her cami?” or “yeah, I get it! Gwen can work a pair of heels” but I had no idea what I’d be missing if the Kristen Ashleyness was ever taken out of a KA novel. To put it plainly, it sucks! I miss the funny girl talk and the individual personalities of each of the ladies. I miss the quirky heroine realizing for the first time she’s surrounded by her man and his hot friends, which can create a ton of killer perving on her man’s friends situations, all made cuter when that man growls and gets jealous (I’m looking at you, Indy and Lee!) I miss the unique and over the top side characters that help make the story interesting. A Tex or an Elvira would’ve really given some life back to Kaleidoscope in the best possible way.
The thing missing the most from this KA romantic suspense novel was the damn ROMANTIC SUSPENSE! It seemed any and everything having to do with that aspect of the story was extremely rushed and never really made it to the forefront of the story. There’s a fairly serious plot twist involving an incident from Emme’s past that deserved quite a bit more attention than it got, but that too was resolved and along with it some major problems between Deck and Emme. Gone, poof, never to be heard from again and a little too convenient for the KA I thought I knew and loved.
I know the fact that I’m non-stop bitching about this one might make you think there’s nothing good to be had. So not true. Jacob Decker is one fine piece of man and I love the fact he realized he wanted Emme and went right for her, awkward third rate criminal, kind of a boyfriend be damned! I actually liked Emme quite a bit, even though she’s not going to make my list of top ten KA ladies anytime soon. I just would’ve appreciated some more development where both characters were concerned.
I can’t say I’m done with Kristen Ashley and her books, but the GCP published stuff will no longer be an auto buy for me. I learned my lesson with this one. I’m hoping that Frankie and Benny (am I the only one waiting on that one for literally YEARS?) can redeem KA for me and give me back the author I love. Fingers crossed!
Sitting there, all that was Jacob, and all that being spectacular sitting across from me, holding my eyes, I finally understood that the reason I was angry at my friend was because, in throwing Jacob away, she took him away from me.
Emme and Jacob “Deck” Decker’s story picks up nine years after they last saw each other. Deck was dating Emme’s bff so the two were used to spending lots of quality time together. When Elspeth, aforementioned bff, dumped Deck due to what she thought was his lack of earning potential, Emme and Deck both knew they were losing each other at the same time. Emme chose to commemorate the occasion by giving Deck a Kaleidoscope so he could always see beauty. Most twenty eight year old guys I know wouldn’t get that deeper meaning but I’m choosing to overlook that. He’s had a tiny piece of her with him all of this time so when he runs into her nine years later on the streets of Gnaw Bone, Colorado either one of them waits long to reconnect. Even though Emme’s dating a man who might be part of an organized crime ring and Deck’s not quite sure where her involvement might lie. But that’s neither here nor there.
I had issues with this story pretty much from the beginning. It’s missing so much of what I’ve come to love about a Kristen Ashley book and I want the old, non-traditionally published KA back and pronto! I used to be one of those readers that bitched “do I really need to know the exact color of lace Lauren’s sporting on her cami?” or “yeah, I get it! Gwen can work a pair of heels” but I had no idea what I’d be missing if the Kristen Ashleyness was ever taken out of a KA novel. To put it plainly, it sucks! I miss the funny girl talk and the individual personalities of each of the ladies. I miss the quirky heroine realizing for the first time she’s surrounded by her man and his hot friends, which can create a ton of killer perving on her man’s friends situations, all made cuter when that man growls and gets jealous (I’m looking at you, Indy and Lee!) I miss the unique and over the top side characters that help make the story interesting. A Tex or an Elvira would’ve really given some life back to Kaleidoscope in the best possible way.
The thing missing the most from this KA romantic suspense novel was the damn ROMANTIC SUSPENSE! It seemed any and everything having to do with that aspect of the story was extremely rushed and never really made it to the forefront of the story. There’s a fairly serious plot twist involving an incident from Emme’s past that deserved quite a bit more attention than it got, but that too was resolved and along with it some major problems between Deck and Emme. Gone, poof, never to be heard from again and a little too convenient for the KA I thought I knew and loved.
I know the fact that I’m non-stop bitching about this one might make you think there’s nothing good to be had. So not true. Jacob Decker is one fine piece of man and I love the fact he realized he wanted Emme and went right for her, awkward third rate criminal, kind of a boyfriend be damned! I actually liked Emme quite a bit, even though she’s not going to make my list of top ten KA ladies anytime soon. I just would’ve appreciated some more development where both characters were concerned.
I can’t say I’m done with Kristen Ashley and her books, but the GCP published stuff will no longer be an auto buy for me. I learned my lesson with this one. I’m hoping that Frankie and Benny (am I the only one waiting on that one for literally YEARS?) can redeem KA for me and give me back the author I love. Fingers crossed!
December 28, 2023
2023
Needing some space to regroup, I took a ride back to re-discover books and authors that touched me and wouldn't let go. Kristen Ashley has always been my calming go to. She has this way of writing that once you get her mindset and understand how she weaves a tale, it can be addicting, especially with her "Vintage OG series. These books are always something I come back to.
2014
4 For Reunion, For Recognition, For Colorado KA Speak Stars
* * * * Spoiler Free
As fan of KA books have learned a few things over the course of reading her books.
The characters who live in her world speak a special language… their way of speaking and the meaning of universal words are sometimes used not in the usual way.... so before I get into the book, here is a taste of what I am talking about….
First … shit gets sorted… they never get figured out or looked into and then finished… nope … they get sorted
People are shot of it… not they finished or free of it… they get shot of that guy or it…
Or they scrape that off… like dog doo and had to be scraped off your shoe… except that can be old friends gone bad … or ex boyfriends etc… you scrape that off
Something which would be expensive was whack… costly
Oh and never … ever say good bye… it is later… or later babe
Now the other thing to know about KA books is the way everyone communicates… there is the one word directive… so it can mean many things from calling your name to get your attention to declaring your true and real affection…
And you need to be aware there is a lot of explaining as to what is happening until you get to the meat of the question or statement being said. With all this being explained you have a primer for her books.
This book was a part of one of my KA favorites, the Colorado series. The best was all of the interaction between the main characters of all the past books. They were all there one way or another making it old home week and warm thoughts of all of their stories I held affectionately in my memory.
We are given the tale of Deck and Emme… Deck has history as the go to guy in security and investigation… he does things in a Maverick way. It was his assistance tracking Faye down when all hell broke loose for Chace in the book, Breathe. He knows what to do in these types of circumstances and in this situation now, Chace has called him into to help with a series of B&E’s gone very bad in Gnaw Bone.
On his way to the meeting to discuss all of this… he runs into Emme… and almost doesn’t know who she is…She has called out to him… and as he looks to see her… he sees a woman who has the sweet curvy figure that bares a second glance; hair which begs touching and a face that is all open … with eyes so unique and her signature dimple bringing it home to Deck.... this is his Emme… a huge transformation from the woman he last said good bye to 9 years ago.
Their history is complicated and in a nutshell… Deck was Emme’s best friend’s boyfriend… Elsbeth; Deck thought he loved her… but in reality… he always had feelings for Emme but just didn’t know it. Emme also wanted Deck… but again, was not aware or in KA speak, clued in, to her feelings.
So this meeting takes on more than just a gathering of old friends… so much more.
This book covers many different topics; PTSD; the impact of victims of crime and how it affects them years after; the concept of understanding love and what that means to an Alpha Male and how their women need to deal; just how to forgive yourself of time gone by and live in the now.
The pace of this book was slower as there was much to explain in the explaining…. And it did not move as quickly as many of her other books… there was also a lot of jumping to conclusions with more explaining after the fact… so this could be a tad frustrating for those who wanted things to move along.
The other part which was also different was the jumping in the end in skipping through years to get to results for the reader… I have been use to more from her in the past so it felt like the end really snuck up on me.
Over, all I would say it was delicious to see all the characters of the Colorado series fresh and happening …. Everyone interacting just was wonderful… I happened to get Deck and Emme’s story… I was totally ok with the story and how it went down… loved Deck as a man and what he wanted in life… and when he got Emme on board with it all… it was Beauty… so this experience was good….I got my KA fix... not a full blast down to the socks perfect... but there were many moments of seriously damn good.
As KA would say…. I got sorted and was clear… and in the end… it was Beauty...
Arc provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
The Gamble (Colorado Mountain, #1)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Sweet Dreams (Colorado Mountain, #2)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Lady Luck (Colorado Mountain, #3)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Breathe (Colorado Mountain, #4)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Jagged (Colorado Mountain, #5)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Kaleidoscope (Colorado Mountain, #6)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Bounty (Colorado Mountain, #7)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
Needing some space to regroup, I took a ride back to re-discover books and authors that touched me and wouldn't let go. Kristen Ashley has always been my calming go to. She has this way of writing that once you get her mindset and understand how she weaves a tale, it can be addicting, especially with her "Vintage OG series. These books are always something I come back to.
2014
4 For Reunion, For Recognition, For Colorado KA Speak Stars
* * * * Spoiler Free
As fan of KA books have learned a few things over the course of reading her books.
The characters who live in her world speak a special language… their way of speaking and the meaning of universal words are sometimes used not in the usual way.... so before I get into the book, here is a taste of what I am talking about….
First … shit gets sorted… they never get figured out or looked into and then finished… nope … they get sorted
People are shot of it… not they finished or free of it… they get shot of that guy or it…
Or they scrape that off… like dog doo and had to be scraped off your shoe… except that can be old friends gone bad … or ex boyfriends etc… you scrape that off
Something which would be expensive was whack… costly
Oh and never … ever say good bye… it is later… or later babe
Now the other thing to know about KA books is the way everyone communicates… there is the one word directive… so it can mean many things from calling your name to get your attention to declaring your true and real affection…
And you need to be aware there is a lot of explaining as to what is happening until you get to the meat of the question or statement being said. With all this being explained you have a primer for her books.
This book was a part of one of my KA favorites, the Colorado series. The best was all of the interaction between the main characters of all the past books. They were all there one way or another making it old home week and warm thoughts of all of their stories I held affectionately in my memory.
We are given the tale of Deck and Emme… Deck has history as the go to guy in security and investigation… he does things in a Maverick way. It was his assistance tracking Faye down when all hell broke loose for Chace in the book, Breathe. He knows what to do in these types of circumstances and in this situation now, Chace has called him into to help with a series of B&E’s gone very bad in Gnaw Bone.
On his way to the meeting to discuss all of this… he runs into Emme… and almost doesn’t know who she is…She has called out to him… and as he looks to see her… he sees a woman who has the sweet curvy figure that bares a second glance; hair which begs touching and a face that is all open … with eyes so unique and her signature dimple bringing it home to Deck.... this is his Emme… a huge transformation from the woman he last said good bye to 9 years ago.
Their history is complicated and in a nutshell… Deck was Emme’s best friend’s boyfriend… Elsbeth; Deck thought he loved her… but in reality… he always had feelings for Emme but just didn’t know it. Emme also wanted Deck… but again, was not aware or in KA speak, clued in, to her feelings.
So this meeting takes on more than just a gathering of old friends… so much more.
This book covers many different topics; PTSD; the impact of victims of crime and how it affects them years after; the concept of understanding love and what that means to an Alpha Male and how their women need to deal; just how to forgive yourself of time gone by and live in the now.
The pace of this book was slower as there was much to explain in the explaining…. And it did not move as quickly as many of her other books… there was also a lot of jumping to conclusions with more explaining after the fact… so this could be a tad frustrating for those who wanted things to move along.
The other part which was also different was the jumping in the end in skipping through years to get to results for the reader… I have been use to more from her in the past so it felt like the end really snuck up on me.
Over, all I would say it was delicious to see all the characters of the Colorado series fresh and happening …. Everyone interacting just was wonderful… I happened to get Deck and Emme’s story… I was totally ok with the story and how it went down… loved Deck as a man and what he wanted in life… and when he got Emme on board with it all… it was Beauty… so this experience was good….I got my KA fix... not a full blast down to the socks perfect... but there were many moments of seriously damn good.
As KA would say…. I got sorted and was clear… and in the end… it was Beauty...
Arc provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
The Gamble (Colorado Mountain, #1)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Sweet Dreams (Colorado Mountain, #2)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Lady Luck (Colorado Mountain, #3)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Breathe (Colorado Mountain, #4)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Jagged (Colorado Mountain, #5)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Kaleidoscope (Colorado Mountain, #6)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Bounty (Colorado Mountain, #7)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
January 14, 2014
I enjoyed the setup for this story, and as ever, the Colorado Mountains are a gorgeous backdrop for the series. In this book, a woman is building her dreams without really understanding what they are, and Kristen Ashley cooked up a new alpha to help her out.
SYNOPSIS:
Deck was first mentioned in Breathe, and he seemed like the most alpha of alphas to me back then. I have to say, at the beginning of this book, he was bossing around even the other bossy boys, so he did live up to my expectations in that regard. He's some sort of freelance bounty hunter dude, come home to Gnaw Bone to help stop a secretive group of criminals who are using high school kids to do their dirty work.
On day one, Deck runs into Emme, a girl from his past. Not THAT kind of girl...Emme is actually his ex girlfriend's best friend, and she and Deck used to be very close as well. But it seems Deck gave Emme a bit of the cold shoulder when she tried to comfort him years ago after the big break up, and it's been over a decade since they've seen each other. An important friendship wasted due to pride.
Emme has had her own set of troubles, but blossoming into a gorgeous woman most people wouldn't recognize from way back when isn't one of them. Emme has lost her frumpy look and her shy demeanor. And Deck sits up and takes notice. Emme used to be the friend that he felt most comfortable with but he was with her best friend and nothing could ever have come from that. Now, however, Deck is free of entanglements, but it's Emme's new boyfriend that Deck has come to investigate. He's determined not only to get her away from her slimeball boy toy, but also to catch her on the rebound and never let her walk away again.
With the help of Deck's loveable dog and Emme's monstrous mansion, these two have a chance to make a former friendship into a lasting love.
MY THOUGHTS:
While the meat of the story was initially a great setup, this was definitely one of my least favorite Kristen Ashley books. To be totally honest, I couldn't bring myself to like Emme all that much. She seemed like a very wishy washy, flighty character. Not only does she take on a HUGE project like restoring a crumbling old mansion on her own, but when her own father tries to help her out, she puts up this stubborn front that reminded me of a two year old trying to show their independence.
The deal with Emme's past...the big secret of what happened to her when she was twelve...well, I didn't actually see how what she was doing was so detrimental. Honestly, that whole setup screamed of melodrama and just felt like too much. One other thing that really super bothered me was
Despite my very mediocre feelings for this book, there were still things that were classic KA awesome. I love the history between this couple, I love that Emme really just took some living to blossom. Women, I think, learn to be confident and content with what God gave them over time. And I felt that from Emme, and in turn, was able to revel in Deck's fascination with the new her.
Advance copy provided by Forever (Grand Central Publishing) via Net Galley for review
SYNOPSIS:
Deck was first mentioned in Breathe, and he seemed like the most alpha of alphas to me back then. I have to say, at the beginning of this book, he was bossing around even the other bossy boys, so he did live up to my expectations in that regard. He's some sort of freelance bounty hunter dude, come home to Gnaw Bone to help stop a secretive group of criminals who are using high school kids to do their dirty work.
On day one, Deck runs into Emme, a girl from his past. Not THAT kind of girl...Emme is actually his ex girlfriend's best friend, and she and Deck used to be very close as well. But it seems Deck gave Emme a bit of the cold shoulder when she tried to comfort him years ago after the big break up, and it's been over a decade since they've seen each other. An important friendship wasted due to pride.
Emme has had her own set of troubles, but blossoming into a gorgeous woman most people wouldn't recognize from way back when isn't one of them. Emme has lost her frumpy look and her shy demeanor. And Deck sits up and takes notice. Emme used to be the friend that he felt most comfortable with but he was with her best friend and nothing could ever have come from that. Now, however, Deck is free of entanglements, but it's Emme's new boyfriend that Deck has come to investigate. He's determined not only to get her away from her slimeball boy toy, but also to catch her on the rebound and never let her walk away again.
With the help of Deck's loveable dog and Emme's monstrous mansion, these two have a chance to make a former friendship into a lasting love.
MY THOUGHTS:
While the meat of the story was initially a great setup, this was definitely one of my least favorite Kristen Ashley books. To be totally honest, I couldn't bring myself to like Emme all that much. She seemed like a very wishy washy, flighty character. Not only does she take on a HUGE project like restoring a crumbling old mansion on her own, but when her own father tries to help her out, she puts up this stubborn front that reminded me of a two year old trying to show their independence.
The deal with Emme's past...the big secret of what happened to her when she was twelve...well, I didn't actually see how what she was doing was so detrimental. Honestly, that whole setup screamed of melodrama and just felt like too much. One other thing that really super bothered me was
Despite my very mediocre feelings for this book, there were still things that were classic KA awesome. I love the history between this couple, I love that Emme really just took some living to blossom. Women, I think, learn to be confident and content with what God gave them over time. And I felt that from Emme, and in turn, was able to revel in Deck's fascination with the new her.
Advance copy provided by Forever (Grand Central Publishing) via Net Galley for review
December 12, 2015
11/11/14 - Still 3.5 - 4 stars after a re read. I actually liked this a lot more re reading it right after I re read Breathe. Deck seemed much more a consistent character. I liked Deck a lot more on the re read. And while I liked Emme, it was a struggle at times to keep liking her. I still remain unconvinced Elsbeth was the bad guy in the past. Her best friend is allowed to call her boyfriend by his given name, something she is not allowed to do, they hole up in a corner at parties and talk for hours etc....no wonder she kept her options open! Emme seemed to at times be a bit too much "oh Elsbeth did this while you were together, but I will not as I am much better....." Still leaves a bad taste in my mouth tbh.
I am unsure about how to rate this.
One the one hand, it kept me up and led to me only getting 3 hours sleep the night before I knew I was going to be walking up and down mountains all day.
On the other, hand, I have now finished it and it is all sort of a blur! I remember more about the rest of the Colorado mtn series I re read before this one, yet I have just finished this, but it is not as clear and as sharp in my mind! I feel disconnected from the story!
I like Deck and Emme.
However, certain things left a vaguely bad taste in my mouth, the descriptions of how their relationship was before, when he was with Elsbeth. I am not 100% sure Elsbeth was the bad guy in that, and her reactions to it, the jealousy, the asking Deck to tone it down, all understandable! While Deck and Emme might not have clicked on what was happening till years later, the Girlfriend at the time certainly did!
Not sure how I feel about Harvey.
It needed to be longer, much longer and have some proper KA style prose. All the jumping forward in time just made me feel forced out of their story to a certain extent.
It ended rather abruptly too, and felt a bit like a balloon deflating right at the end...just a bit "ppfffftttttttt"
I liked Deck and Emme, and I liked their story, I just wish it had been more
But, even a less then stellar for me KA is still a lot better than 85% of anything else I read.
A decent 3.5-4, rounded up to 4 stars.
I am unsure about how to rate this.
One the one hand, it kept me up and led to me only getting 3 hours sleep the night before I knew I was going to be walking up and down mountains all day.
On the other, hand, I have now finished it and it is all sort of a blur! I remember more about the rest of the Colorado mtn series I re read before this one, yet I have just finished this, but it is not as clear and as sharp in my mind! I feel disconnected from the story!
I like Deck and Emme.
However, certain things left a vaguely bad taste in my mouth, the descriptions of how their relationship was before, when he was with Elsbeth. I am not 100% sure Elsbeth was the bad guy in that, and her reactions to it, the jealousy, the asking Deck to tone it down, all understandable! While Deck and Emme might not have clicked on what was happening till years later, the Girlfriend at the time certainly did!
Not sure how I feel about Harvey.
It needed to be longer, much longer and have some proper KA style prose. All the jumping forward in time just made me feel forced out of their story to a certain extent.
It ended rather abruptly too, and felt a bit like a balloon deflating right at the end...just a bit "ppfffftttttttt"
I liked Deck and Emme, and I liked their story, I just wish it had been more
But, even a less then stellar for me KA is still a lot better than 85% of anything else I read.
A decent 3.5-4, rounded up to 4 stars.
June 24, 2015
WOW... That was the PERFECT. A BREATHLESS conclusion to and already perfect series. Deck and Emme were amazing, just like all the other characters. I LOVED the way they were with each other. IDK what to say... I'm buzzing a little right now and I need to pull myself together. The EPILOGUES in this series are just so freaking phenomenal. They leave you so warm and happy.... Ahhhhh!
I'm gonna start crossing fingers and chanting magic spells that we get more of this series. We still have Deke... He's not matched up yet...
SOOOOOO...
Hahahahahaha! A girl can hope right?!
I'm gonna start crossing fingers and chanting magic spells that we get more of this series. We still have Deke... He's not matched up yet...
SOOOOOO...
Hahahahahaha! A girl can hope right?!
February 4, 2014
2.7 to 3 Conflicted Stars!
I was so excited to when I received my ARC from NetGalley. GCP has never approved me before and suddenly, they approved me for this. Of course, I'm gonna read it.
Anyhoo, I did enjoy this one because of Deck and the appearance of Tate, Ty, Max, Reece (I refuse to call him Ham), and Chace. They all made an appearance and it was raining alpha males! Hallelujah! Plus, Deck was really awesome.
That said, I wish I liked Emme better. She really sunk the whole book for me.
I could go on and on about how short this book is and how GCP is stripping KA off of her voice with every release but I won't. I could overlook those things but I'm not able to overlook her. Emme's character is probably the blandest of all of KA's heroines. :(
I liked that she came out of her shell and became a beauty that she was meant to be but I couldn't get past the things she did and some of her decisions. She called Deck 'honey' while he was still going out with her BFF. I know it's a common endearment in KA's books but somehow, the way she used it with him wasn't innocent. She had feelings for the Deck.
Not only that the moment her BFF dumped Deck, she severed all ties with her. No letters, calls, etc. Just like that. Why? I get that her BFF was stupid and probably selfish but you could've just told her the truth about her shitty attitude but she didn't do that. She had to make a statement and stop talking to her, etc.
I don't get it. I don't get her at all. But that's just my opinion. Hope my opinion won't stop you from giving this book a chance though. This book might not work for KA old-timers but for those who are just starting to read KA, this would be a wonderful read, I reckon.
*ARC provided by Forever (Grand Central Publishing), via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
I was so excited to when I received my ARC from NetGalley. GCP has never approved me before and suddenly, they approved me for this. Of course, I'm gonna read it.
Anyhoo, I did enjoy this one because of Deck and the appearance of Tate, Ty, Max, Reece (I refuse to call him Ham), and Chace. They all made an appearance and it was raining alpha males! Hallelujah! Plus, Deck was really awesome.
That said, I wish I liked Emme better. She really sunk the whole book for me.
I could go on and on about how short this book is and how GCP is stripping KA off of her voice with every release but I won't. I could overlook those things but I'm not able to overlook her. Emme's character is probably the blandest of all of KA's heroines. :(
I liked that she came out of her shell and became a beauty that she was meant to be but I couldn't get past the things she did and some of her decisions. She called Deck 'honey' while he was still going out with her BFF. I know it's a common endearment in KA's books but somehow, the way she used it with him wasn't innocent. She had feelings for the Deck.
Not only that the moment her BFF dumped Deck, she severed all ties with her. No letters, calls, etc. Just like that. Why? I get that her BFF was stupid and probably selfish but you could've just told her the truth about her shitty attitude but she didn't do that. She had to make a statement and stop talking to her, etc.
I don't get it. I don't get her at all. But that's just my opinion. Hope my opinion won't stop you from giving this book a chance though. This book might not work for KA old-timers but for those who are just starting to read KA, this would be a wonderful read, I reckon.
*ARC provided by Forever (Grand Central Publishing), via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
December 14, 2014
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Kaleidoscope is the sixth installment in the Colorado Mountain Series. It is no secret that I am a HUGE fan of Kristen Ashley, her descriptive writing style, her supremely sexy Alpha-males, strong heroines and attention grabbing story lines. This author never ceases to deliver heartwarming yet highly sensual romances that tap directly into my emotions. In reading Kaleidoscope, I am once again lured into the magical towns of Gnaw Bone and Chantelle, visiting some old friends, falling for the gifted and drop dead gorgeous PI Jacob “Deck” Decker, as I step into the lives and love story of Deck and Emme.
When first introduced to Deck in Breathe, (Chace and Faye’s romance), I was immediately intrigued by his character. There was an air of mystery surrounding him and I found myself wanting to learn more about Chace Keaton’s loyal best friend. There were references to a great heartache in his past and difficulties moving on. My spidey senses knew it would take an incredible woman to help heal Deck’s broken spirit.
Deck and Emmanuelle “Emme” Holmes are estranged friends. It’s been nine long years since he’d laid eyes on Emme’s adorable dimple, and a chance encounter made Deck realize just how much he truly missed her. After his woman Elsbeth broke his heart, Deck cut all ties associated with the relationship. One of the casualties was Emme, Elsbeth’s best friend. Regardless of how hard Emme tried, Deck’s friendship was lost and his absence severely hurt her. But, before he vanished, Emme gave Deck a special gift. A kaleidoscope – a reminder that beauty will always be within his reach. Deck treasures Emme’s gift, as it bears great meaning in his life.
You think you lost beauty, Jacob, but you didn’t. That dimple. That fucking dimple. This time coming out under sad eyes before she’d whispered, Just turn the dial.
Emme, is a lonely girly who has isolated herself from others, with good reason. Her character is sweet, gentle, and yet obstinate. I couldn’t help but feel sad when learning about her past and the reasons that cause Emme to build such high emotional walls. It will take an extraordinary man like Deck to break through.
Deck’s adorably sexy. He is a strong and powerful man, yet tender and kind. And yes, his dirty-mouth pillow talk was quite arousing. I loved his resolve on breaking through to Emme and helping her moved past her fears. He is with out a doubt in love with her and will fight all obstacles in order to build a future with his woman. In one word, Deck is beautiful.
The Kaleidoscope is a symbol of change and beauty. It’s made from shattered and broken pieces of glass, connected together to form a new work of art. It’s true beauty is revealed when the sun radiates it’s light. The symbolism of the kaleidoscope does have an underlying meaning in this story for me. In a way, it is representative of Emme’s life. Past experiences shattered Emme. It is Deck’s fortitude and love that solidifies the scattered fragments of Emme together. He’s also the light that shines and brings beauty into her world. It also holds great meaning for Deck as well. For him, it represented a way of always keeping Emme close to his heart.
This story, like all others in the series, is steamy. Deck is incredibly sensual and I fell in love with him immediately. Without revealing any spoilers, I will say there are a few plot twists, but the drama and tension levels are not as high as in the prior installments. It is a true “friends turn lovers” story, focused on Emme and Deck, their families and their relationship. I adored this couple and the way their connection flourished into love, how they dealt with their obstacles and the passion they shared. It was also a treat seeing characters from the earlier series woven into the storyline. Kaleidoscope was a very well told and exceptionally written tale. It has become one of my favorite reads, which I highly recommend.
And now… Anticipation is making me wait for further “rocky road to second chances” love stories involving the characters Deke Hightower and Coal "Wood" Blackwood.
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Kaleidoscope is the sixth installment in the Colorado Mountain Series. It is no secret that I am a HUGE fan of Kristen Ashley, her descriptive writing style, her supremely sexy Alpha-males, strong heroines and attention grabbing story lines. This author never ceases to deliver heartwarming yet highly sensual romances that tap directly into my emotions. In reading Kaleidoscope, I am once again lured into the magical towns of Gnaw Bone and Chantelle, visiting some old friends, falling for the gifted and drop dead gorgeous PI Jacob “Deck” Decker, as I step into the lives and love story of Deck and Emme.
When first introduced to Deck in Breathe, (Chace and Faye’s romance), I was immediately intrigued by his character. There was an air of mystery surrounding him and I found myself wanting to learn more about Chace Keaton’s loyal best friend. There were references to a great heartache in his past and difficulties moving on. My spidey senses knew it would take an incredible woman to help heal Deck’s broken spirit.
Deck and Emmanuelle “Emme” Holmes are estranged friends. It’s been nine long years since he’d laid eyes on Emme’s adorable dimple, and a chance encounter made Deck realize just how much he truly missed her. After his woman Elsbeth broke his heart, Deck cut all ties associated with the relationship. One of the casualties was Emme, Elsbeth’s best friend. Regardless of how hard Emme tried, Deck’s friendship was lost and his absence severely hurt her. But, before he vanished, Emme gave Deck a special gift. A kaleidoscope – a reminder that beauty will always be within his reach. Deck treasures Emme’s gift, as it bears great meaning in his life.
You think you lost beauty, Jacob, but you didn’t. That dimple. That fucking dimple. This time coming out under sad eyes before she’d whispered, Just turn the dial.
Emme, is a lonely girly who has isolated herself from others, with good reason. Her character is sweet, gentle, and yet obstinate. I couldn’t help but feel sad when learning about her past and the reasons that cause Emme to build such high emotional walls. It will take an extraordinary man like Deck to break through.
Deck’s adorably sexy. He is a strong and powerful man, yet tender and kind. And yes, his dirty-mouth pillow talk was quite arousing. I loved his resolve on breaking through to Emme and helping her moved past her fears. He is with out a doubt in love with her and will fight all obstacles in order to build a future with his woman. In one word, Deck is beautiful.
The Kaleidoscope is a symbol of change and beauty. It’s made from shattered and broken pieces of glass, connected together to form a new work of art. It’s true beauty is revealed when the sun radiates it’s light. The symbolism of the kaleidoscope does have an underlying meaning in this story for me. In a way, it is representative of Emme’s life. Past experiences shattered Emme. It is Deck’s fortitude and love that solidifies the scattered fragments of Emme together. He’s also the light that shines and brings beauty into her world. It also holds great meaning for Deck as well. For him, it represented a way of always keeping Emme close to his heart.
This story, like all others in the series, is steamy. Deck is incredibly sensual and I fell in love with him immediately. Without revealing any spoilers, I will say there are a few plot twists, but the drama and tension levels are not as high as in the prior installments. It is a true “friends turn lovers” story, focused on Emme and Deck, their families and their relationship. I adored this couple and the way their connection flourished into love, how they dealt with their obstacles and the passion they shared. It was also a treat seeing characters from the earlier series woven into the storyline. Kaleidoscope was a very well told and exceptionally written tale. It has become one of my favorite reads, which I highly recommend.
And now… Anticipation is making me wait for further “rocky road to second chances” love stories involving the characters Deke Hightower and Coal "Wood" Blackwood.
Want to read
June 5, 2013
NEW KRISTEN ASHLEY BOOK!!!!!
COLORADO MOUNTAIN #6 -- KALEIDOSCOPE
Release date is February 4th, 2014.
This is Deck and Emme's story! Deck was mentioned in Breathe in case you want to go back and get a refresher :)
January 27, 2014
oh dear...
This is not the first KA book that i haven't enjoyed but this is the first one a have found dull. Out of the 33 KA books i have read this is the 3rd i have rated below a 4 star, that gives you some idea of how much i generally enjoy a KA book. Also I almost never take longer than a day (more like a few hours) to read a book but this book took me 3 whole days to read because it just did not interest me enough.
So what exactly did i not enjoy about this book?
* I am not a fan of second chances in general but a second chance where the only reason the man dig's her this time round is because she lost 20 pounds and does her hair differently.. i.e for completely vain reasons - well that just does not cool.
* Where the hell was the action/drama/interest? Who knows!
* Where the hell was the girl posse/friend interactions? A few chapters with them is not enough for me, I live for the secondary characters in KA books this book seriously lacked them for me.
I also did not really like Deck or Emme. I was constantly thinking that I would of punched Deck if I was Emme, there was at least 3 scenes where i really did not think Deck was in the right/made sense/should of be allowed to live. I also do not think ignoring someone else's feelings/ideas/thoughts/decisions makes you an Alpha in my opinion it just makes you a dick.
Emme.. jesus fuck, how many times can i say this to myself..
I tried so hard to like her but she just did not work for me. I found her past drama actually a melodrama that was dragged into the present to try to add some excitement to the book.
I was really disappointed that i didnt enjoy this book like i did the others i have read previously.
But this will not stop me from reading more KA books in the future.
This is not the first KA book that i haven't enjoyed but this is the first one a have found dull. Out of the 33 KA books i have read this is the 3rd i have rated below a 4 star, that gives you some idea of how much i generally enjoy a KA book. Also I almost never take longer than a day (more like a few hours) to read a book but this book took me 3 whole days to read because it just did not interest me enough.
So what exactly did i not enjoy about this book?
* I am not a fan of second chances in general but a second chance where the only reason the man dig's her this time round is because she lost 20 pounds and does her hair differently.. i.e for completely vain reasons - well that just does not cool.
* Where the hell was the action/drama/interest? Who knows!
* Where the hell was the girl posse/friend interactions? A few chapters with them is not enough for me, I live for the secondary characters in KA books this book seriously lacked them for me.
I also did not really like Deck or Emme. I was constantly thinking that I would of punched Deck if I was Emme, there was at least 3 scenes where i really did not think Deck was in the right/made sense/should of be allowed to live. I also do not think ignoring someone else's feelings/ideas/thoughts/decisions makes you an Alpha in my opinion it just makes you a dick.
Emme.. jesus fuck, how many times can i say this to myself..
I tried so hard to like her but she just did not work for me. I found her past drama actually a melodrama that was dragged into the present to try to add some excitement to the book.
I was really disappointed that i didnt enjoy this book like i did the others i have read previously.
But this will not stop me from reading more KA books in the future.
March 11, 2014
Emme and Deck used to be friends a long time ago, good friends, as good of friends as you can be with someone else's boyfriend that is. The friendship ended when Deck's girlfriend broke up with him and Emme decided she didn't want anything to do with her bff anymore. That was nine years ago but everything changed when they run into each other.
My first impression is that I liked how KA mixed things up a bit with this story. It wasn't the same ol' formula...granted, a lot is still the same, but she is changing things up.
One of the things I liked and didn't like was that a lot of the friendship (romance!) was in the past. We do get some retelling but it just wasn't the same for me and Emme and Deck's relationship progresses really quickly. It did help to get both their POVs at least.
The nice thing was we didn't have a lot of drama in the beginning but it was like the calm before the storm. You know it's coming, you just don't want to think about it!
I "really, really liked" both Emme and Deck and especially them together. Emme has been on her own, taking care of herself but she's still a bit clueless about certain things. Deck is extremely Alpha but I liked that he was a genius and all his little idiosyncrasies.
The scenes are still "KA steamy" but I felt that a lot of them were cut off. We only got parts here and there and that was disappointing!
I loved how the kaleidoscope played into the story. How both Deck and Emme felt about it. And the part at the end? Priceless.
One of the things that bugged the heck out of me was the time line. I hated every time one popped up..."three hours later" "two weeks six days later", but I did love how Deck and Emme teased each other. It was hilarious about the names of her Bronco and the puppy.
The dramas that happened were pretty predictable especially the ones pertaining to Deck and Emme's relationship. Elsbeth...come on! I just felt if you're going to mix it up, then mix it up! The whole high school kids/burglaries/drug dealer was pretty boring too.
But hey!! What about this Deck and Chance bromance huh? Wooohooo...I was loving that. I really wish KA would've explored that more! ;)
We get some of the prior characters from the Colorado Mountain series and I liked that Emme was able to get her "girl posse"...something she really needed. Deck and Emme's families are really great too although Deck's Dad was a bit of a creeper. (I was going to say he was a dick but that would be redundant!) And I loved the dogs...Buford and Daisy Mae! LOL!
Of course we get one of KA's infamous Epilogues and I quite enjoyed it. Loved how everything came together.
Nothing set for who the next book will be about. I checked KA's web site and she talked about either Deke or Wood...I'm game for either!
Favorite quotes:
♥ "You think you lost beauty, Jacob, but you didn’t. Just turn the dial."
♥ “A Bronco is not a girl. A Bronco is definitely a guy.”
“Her name is Persephone.”
Jesus.
Deck bit back laughter and returned, “I’ve just re-anointed him Elrod.”
“Persephone,” she shot back.
“You don’t like Elrod, you can pick Cletus.”
♥ "Strawberries."
♥ “Awesome food, homemade beer and skinny-dipping,” she whispered. “Have I told you I like you today?”
“No. You told me you really like me.”
♥ "Didn't know you could get more beautiful."
My first impression is that I liked how KA mixed things up a bit with this story. It wasn't the same ol' formula...granted, a lot is still the same, but she is changing things up.
One of the things I liked and didn't like was that a lot of the friendship (romance!) was in the past. We do get some retelling but it just wasn't the same for me and Emme and Deck's relationship progresses really quickly. It did help to get both their POVs at least.
The nice thing was we didn't have a lot of drama in the beginning but it was like the calm before the storm. You know it's coming, you just don't want to think about it!
I "really, really liked" both Emme and Deck and especially them together. Emme has been on her own, taking care of herself but she's still a bit clueless about certain things. Deck is extremely Alpha but I liked that he was a genius and all his little idiosyncrasies.
The scenes are still "KA steamy" but I felt that a lot of them were cut off. We only got parts here and there and that was disappointing!
I loved how the kaleidoscope played into the story. How both Deck and Emme felt about it. And the part at the end? Priceless.
One of the things that bugged the heck out of me was the time line. I hated every time one popped up..."three hours later" "two weeks six days later", but I did love how Deck and Emme teased each other. It was hilarious about the names of her Bronco and the puppy.
The dramas that happened were pretty predictable especially the ones pertaining to Deck and Emme's relationship. Elsbeth...come on! I just felt if you're going to mix it up, then mix it up! The whole high school kids/burglaries/drug dealer was pretty boring too.
But hey!! What about this Deck and Chance bromance huh? Wooohooo...I was loving that. I really wish KA would've explored that more! ;)
We get some of the prior characters from the Colorado Mountain series and I liked that Emme was able to get her "girl posse"...something she really needed. Deck and Emme's families are really great too although Deck's Dad was a bit of a creeper. (I was going to say he was a dick but that would be redundant!) And I loved the dogs...Buford and Daisy Mae! LOL!
Of course we get one of KA's infamous Epilogues and I quite enjoyed it. Loved how everything came together.
Nothing set for who the next book will be about. I checked KA's web site and she talked about either Deke or Wood...I'm game for either!
Favorite quotes:
♥ "You think you lost beauty, Jacob, but you didn’t. Just turn the dial."
♥ “A Bronco is not a girl. A Bronco is definitely a guy.”
“Her name is Persephone.”
Jesus.
Deck bit back laughter and returned, “I’ve just re-anointed him Elrod.”
“Persephone,” she shot back.
“You don’t like Elrod, you can pick Cletus.”
♥ "Strawberries."
♥ “Awesome food, homemade beer and skinny-dipping,” she whispered. “Have I told you I like you today?”
“No. You told me you really like me.”
♥ "Didn't know you could get more beautiful."
July 28, 2019
Not as awesome as all the others but still a nice read... 3,5 stars ;)
November 6, 2014
3.5 Kristen Ashley stars
When old friends become new lovers...anything can happen.
It's been nine years since Jacob has seen Emme, and she is far different than what he remembers her as. No longer the best friend of his ex, but now a bombshell of a girl that shines brighter than most. The day he lost Elsbeth is the same day he lost his friend, they were naturally close, some would say closer than they should be and it hurt them both when they lost that connection.The inner PI in him suspects something is up, that something caused the change but what... she is a puzzle that he wants to solve. She is caught up with a piece of scum, one he doesn't want around, and he will do anything to keep her safe...the job that brought him into town just became personal.
The more Jacob observes Emme and the life she chose to live, he knows something is up, but how can he get her to realize anything is wrong when she herself doesn't seem to know. A past that should have stayed in the past, has no place in the present or future and it's keeping the real her from him. She is giving him pieces of her, when he wants it all. She is too independent for her own good, happy to be alone and keep to herself.
How can you love someone when you fear it at the same time??? how can you move on when you let your past be a part of your day??? how can you open your self to the possibilities of more when you freeze up and withdraw at the thought??? It takes a strong man to protect you even from your self but the question is if you will let him...
Kaleidoscope wasn't one of my favorite Kristen Ashley reads, and frankly it is one of my lower rated books by her. While I loved Jacob for who he was and all he did, the overall story was just felt flat to me. There wasn't the usual humor, banter and excitement. It was just a story of a broken girl and the man who is strong enough to fight her demons and put her back together. I kept waiting for something to happen, that little something more that we are so used to with her books. And while she delivered on the alpha male, it fell short on the rest. Still for me a 3.5 stars for a KA book is still higher than another 3.5 rated book, it's complicated, but she seriously needs her own rating system. Oh well, I'm still glad I read it, just sad I didn't love it.
“You’re not just you anymore. Now you’re mine. That means you’re part of an us.”
When old friends become new lovers...anything can happen.
It's been nine years since Jacob has seen Emme, and she is far different than what he remembers her as. No longer the best friend of his ex, but now a bombshell of a girl that shines brighter than most. The day he lost Elsbeth is the same day he lost his friend, they were naturally close, some would say closer than they should be and it hurt them both when they lost that connection.The inner PI in him suspects something is up, that something caused the change but what... she is a puzzle that he wants to solve. She is caught up with a piece of scum, one he doesn't want around, and he will do anything to keep her safe...the job that brought him into town just became personal.
“Emme, I’m lying in bed lookin’ at your kaleidoscope sittin’ on my nightstand, knowin’ you’ve been with me every day for nine years. Which means I wanted you with me every day even when I didn’t realize it. Which means you mean something to me and not a little something."
The more Jacob observes Emme and the life she chose to live, he knows something is up, but how can he get her to realize anything is wrong when she herself doesn't seem to know. A past that should have stayed in the past, has no place in the present or future and it's keeping the real her from him. She is giving him pieces of her, when he wants it all. She is too independent for her own good, happy to be alone and keep to herself.
“You’re damaged,” he declared.
“I’m not,” I forced out. But I was thinking I was.
“Broken,” he went on.
“I’m not,” I repeated on a wheeze even though I was thinking I was that too.
“And I’m going to piece the parts back together, Emme.”
How can you love someone when you fear it at the same time??? how can you move on when you let your past be a part of your day??? how can you open your self to the possibilities of more when you freeze up and withdraw at the thought??? It takes a strong man to protect you even from your self but the question is if you will let him...
Kaleidoscope wasn't one of my favorite Kristen Ashley reads, and frankly it is one of my lower rated books by her. While I loved Jacob for who he was and all he did, the overall story was just felt flat to me. There wasn't the usual humor, banter and excitement. It was just a story of a broken girl and the man who is strong enough to fight her demons and put her back together. I kept waiting for something to happen, that little something more that we are so used to with her books. And while she delivered on the alpha male, it fell short on the rest. Still for me a 3.5 stars for a KA book is still higher than another 3.5 rated book, it's complicated, but she seriously needs her own rating system. Oh well, I'm still glad I read it, just sad I didn't love it.
February 13, 2014
4.5 STARS!!!!!!
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“This was a kaleidoscope of beauty, the dials spinning, ever changing, but never anything short of spectacular.”
I’m going to make this short and sweet… PURE untainted Kristen Ashley M.A.G.I.C!!!! Yes, I am quite aware that my opinions may be just a wee bit biased… I am a HUGE fan, so keep that in mind when considering my reviews!!!
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Jacob Decker…his friends, and basically everyone he knows call him Deck. He is a freelance P.I. that specializes in under-the-table investigation, which means he usually works alone, and as a bit of a maverick. He is BFF with Chace Keaton, a well known Carnal Detective, and has been since he was in school.
And it is Chace, who has called him into this most recent investigation involving a local burglary ring in the area, which seems to have recruited a few high school students in their most recent stint of robberies. The local sheriffs from several nearby communities have so far come up dry with their suspects. So Deck is called in on the job.
On his arrival to Gnaw Bone, a neighboring town to his own, to meet with the local deputies on the case along with his friend Chace, Deck hears that voice… her voice. And she is calling out his name…
“Jacob Decker!”
Deck turned at hearing his name called in a voice he knew but hadn’t heard in years. A voice he liked.
A voice he missed.
A voice that made his blood run hot.
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It was her Emmanuelle Holmes… his Emme. He hadn’t seen her in 9 years. But this woman he was looking at… the one calling his name did not look like the Emme he remembered. This was someone he’d never seen… and she BLEW HIS MIND!!!! But unfortunately, she wasn’t alone. She was with her boyfriend… and also unfortunately… her boyfriend just so happened to be the guy he was investigating… fucking hell.
But it didn’t stop that smile… and that dimple that almost brought him to his knees…
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Emmanuelle “Emme” Holmes was Deck’s ex-girlfriends best friend that he broke contact with shortly after he split with his girl… Elsbeth. A girl he was HUNG UP ON for 9 years! A girl that Emme also broke contact with for the same reason, because she let Deck go, and for all the wrong reasons. But Emme hadn’t seen Jacob Decker in 9 years… after she gave him that last parting gift… and the advice that she hoped he would take, but didn't.
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“You think you lost beauty, Jacob, but you didn’t…. Just turn the dial.”
But he didn’t get it back then… but he get’s it now. And this time he’s determined to take what is his and what was always meant to be his, but he was just too young and blind to see it.
I really LOVED this couple…They had all kinds of SHIT to work out between them, and personal demons to conquer. Emme had some sketchy things to deal with from her past… some traumatic events that left her scarred and alone. And Deck knew it. And he knew he’d have to get her through them before she’d let him get close.
And it was a STRUGGLE!!!! She was pushing him away right from the get go. YES, she wanted him, she’d always wanted him. But she would never let herself have him. She couldn’t get that close to anyone.
The thing I loved most about Jacob was his tenacious drive to solve problems. He NEVER gave up on his girl. He wasn’t going to let her shut him out. He wasn’t going to let her put up that veil again…
“…I also knew then and even more now that shit made you live remote, behind a veil, givin’ but holdin’ back. That shit starts to leak back in, I’m gonna put a stop to that too.”
And the thing I liked least about Jacob Decker… he NEVER SHUTS UP!!!!! I mean, HOLY FUCKING COW, that man can talk, and talk, and talk, and talk… I mean he’s really lucky he’s all kinds of HOT and all kinds of good in bed, otherwise, I would have hit him over the head with a fryin’ pan!!!! AND did I mention BOSSY… well, yep… there is that too!!!
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“Any woman who was breathing noticed Jacob Decker. Hell, it was possible he could walk through a graveyard and his very presence would call up the dead females as zombies rabid to get just an undead glimpse of him, he was that noticeable of a male.”
But I LOVED Emme. Yes she second guessed herself, and pulled away from people close to her. But with Jacob’s help, she found her way back. She was all kinds of cute and sweet, and everything that is endearing. I liked her… a lot.
Now the only thing left to mention is that the book seemed to END like right out of the blue. I was still expecting the kidnapping to happen… and so serious altercation with the bad people, when I got…
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…what? that’s it? I guess so…
![]()
Luckily… the epilogue was killer, as usual. So now I just have to wait for the next release.
And gladly!!!!!
4.5 COLORFUL STARS
“This was a kaleidoscope of beauty, the dials spinning, ever changing, but never anything short of spectacular.”
I’m going to make this short and sweet… PURE untainted Kristen Ashley M.A.G.I.C!!!! Yes, I am quite aware that my opinions may be just a wee bit biased… I am a HUGE fan, so keep that in mind when considering my reviews!!!
Jacob Decker…his friends, and basically everyone he knows call him Deck. He is a freelance P.I. that specializes in under-the-table investigation, which means he usually works alone, and as a bit of a maverick. He is BFF with Chace Keaton, a well known Carnal Detective, and has been since he was in school.
And it is Chace, who has called him into this most recent investigation involving a local burglary ring in the area, which seems to have recruited a few high school students in their most recent stint of robberies. The local sheriffs from several nearby communities have so far come up dry with their suspects. So Deck is called in on the job.
On his arrival to Gnaw Bone, a neighboring town to his own, to meet with the local deputies on the case along with his friend Chace, Deck hears that voice… her voice. And she is calling out his name…
“Jacob Decker!”
Deck turned at hearing his name called in a voice he knew but hadn’t heard in years. A voice he liked.
A voice he missed.
A voice that made his blood run hot.
It was her Emmanuelle Holmes… his Emme. He hadn’t seen her in 9 years. But this woman he was looking at… the one calling his name did not look like the Emme he remembered. This was someone he’d never seen… and she BLEW HIS MIND!!!! But unfortunately, she wasn’t alone. She was with her boyfriend… and also unfortunately… her boyfriend just so happened to be the guy he was investigating… fucking hell.
But it didn’t stop that smile… and that dimple that almost brought him to his knees…
Emmanuelle “Emme” Holmes was Deck’s ex-girlfriends best friend that he broke contact with shortly after he split with his girl… Elsbeth. A girl he was HUNG UP ON for 9 years! A girl that Emme also broke contact with for the same reason, because she let Deck go, and for all the wrong reasons. But Emme hadn’t seen Jacob Decker in 9 years… after she gave him that last parting gift… and the advice that she hoped he would take, but didn't.
“You think you lost beauty, Jacob, but you didn’t…. Just turn the dial.”
But he didn’t get it back then… but he get’s it now. And this time he’s determined to take what is his and what was always meant to be his, but he was just too young and blind to see it.
I really LOVED this couple…They had all kinds of SHIT to work out between them, and personal demons to conquer. Emme had some sketchy things to deal with from her past… some traumatic events that left her scarred and alone. And Deck knew it. And he knew he’d have to get her through them before she’d let him get close.
And it was a STRUGGLE!!!! She was pushing him away right from the get go. YES, she wanted him, she’d always wanted him. But she would never let herself have him. She couldn’t get that close to anyone.
The thing I loved most about Jacob was his tenacious drive to solve problems. He NEVER gave up on his girl. He wasn’t going to let her shut him out. He wasn’t going to let her put up that veil again…
“…I also knew then and even more now that shit made you live remote, behind a veil, givin’ but holdin’ back. That shit starts to leak back in, I’m gonna put a stop to that too.”
And the thing I liked least about Jacob Decker… he NEVER SHUTS UP!!!!! I mean, HOLY FUCKING COW, that man can talk, and talk, and talk, and talk… I mean he’s really lucky he’s all kinds of HOT and all kinds of good in bed, otherwise, I would have hit him over the head with a fryin’ pan!!!! AND did I mention BOSSY… well, yep… there is that too!!!
“Any woman who was breathing noticed Jacob Decker. Hell, it was possible he could walk through a graveyard and his very presence would call up the dead females as zombies rabid to get just an undead glimpse of him, he was that noticeable of a male.”
But I LOVED Emme. Yes she second guessed herself, and pulled away from people close to her. But with Jacob’s help, she found her way back. She was all kinds of cute and sweet, and everything that is endearing. I liked her… a lot.
Now the only thing left to mention is that the book seemed to END like right out of the blue. I was still expecting the kidnapping to happen… and so serious altercation with the bad people, when I got…
…what? that’s it? I guess so…
Luckily… the epilogue was killer, as usual. So now I just have to wait for the next release.
And gladly!!!!!
4.5 COLORFUL STARS
September 1, 2016
"...the beauty he thought he lost by not doing what she wanted and losing her, that he didn't see it. He didn't see he had something even more beautiful right in from of him."
This is the 6th installment in the Colorado Mountain Series and although it’s not a favorite of mine – Tate and Ty were AMAZING, this was still a solid 4 star read for me.
Jacob Decker is Chace’s best friend and readers were introduced to him in Breathe, as he assisted with Faye’s rescue mission.
I have to say the kidnapping theme gets a bit old for me but this at least had a bit of twist on that end and although Emme the heroine of this story wasn’t Lexi and Lauren’s level of cool, she was likable.
After nine years, Decker runs into to his former girlfriend, Elsbeth’s best friend Emme. Emme has changed her appearance and the same connection these two shared in the past has seemed to magnify years later. Decker was the typical KA alpha he saw what he wanted, the word slow isn’t in his vocabulary even if Emme is dating a criminal that Decker has been deputized to take down.
Decker and Emme work past her baggage and Emme learns not to disconnect from her life.
”I thought you were just a loner,” he went on. “You’re not. You’re just determined to be alone.”
On the downside, I would have flipped the same way as Emme did about the meet with Elsbeth. I found it ridiculous that it was hinted that a secret meet in any circumstances is okay. I did like how Emme handled herself when she got her face to face though. Also, I would have liked a FUN scene with the girl posse.
Overall, I found this a good read and if it was by another author a 4 star rating, against Sweet Dreams and Lady Luck perhaps just a 3 star rating. I liked that the story wasn’t too predictable, I loved Emme and Decker’s fathers and the epilogue was as usual kick ass!
”Lexi noted, grinning at Lauren, “Only Deke left.”
BRING ON DEKE’S BOOK!
This is the 6th installment in the Colorado Mountain Series and although it’s not a favorite of mine – Tate and Ty were AMAZING, this was still a solid 4 star read for me.
Jacob Decker is Chace’s best friend and readers were introduced to him in Breathe, as he assisted with Faye’s rescue mission.
I have to say the kidnapping theme gets a bit old for me but this at least had a bit of twist on that end and although Emme the heroine of this story wasn’t Lexi and Lauren’s level of cool, she was likable.
After nine years, Decker runs into to his former girlfriend, Elsbeth’s best friend Emme. Emme has changed her appearance and the same connection these two shared in the past has seemed to magnify years later. Decker was the typical KA alpha he saw what he wanted, the word slow isn’t in his vocabulary even if Emme is dating a criminal that Decker has been deputized to take down.
Decker and Emme work past her baggage and Emme learns not to disconnect from her life.
”I thought you were just a loner,” he went on. “You’re not. You’re just determined to be alone.”
On the downside, I would have flipped the same way as Emme did about the meet with Elsbeth. I found it ridiculous that it was hinted that a secret meet in any circumstances is okay. I did like how Emme handled herself when she got her face to face though. Also, I would have liked a FUN scene with the girl posse.
Overall, I found this a good read and if it was by another author a 4 star rating, against Sweet Dreams and Lady Luck perhaps just a 3 star rating. I liked that the story wasn’t too predictable, I loved Emme and Decker’s fathers and the epilogue was as usual kick ass!
”Lexi noted, grinning at Lauren, “Only Deke left.”
BRING ON DEKE’S BOOK!
June 6, 2016
***3.5 Stars***
I need my half stars Goodreads!!!
This was a solid read that I enjoyed. Not my favorite KA, but solid nonetheless.
Emme and Deck fell into each other pretty effortlessly and easily and I do love me a KA Alpha....but this one lacked the extra OOMPH that I've come to expect from my KA reads. It didn't quite get me to the butterflies and tingles that I usually expect. However, it did deliver in the feeling of comfort I get whenever I pick up a KA book.
Deck's take charge, possessive and protective attitude felt like putting on your favorite t-shirt. The one that's old and has been washed a million times and you should probably think about throwing it out, but it still fits great (if not better) and it's so damn soft and the thought of parting with it gives you a bit of anxiety. That's how I felt about Deck. He gave me that warm comfort of what it's like to have the heart of an Alpha.
And Emme was a good heroine. One too many "honey's" for my liking, but a good, caring woman who deserved her Alpha man. However, her emotional backstory was a little head scratching and didn't feel completely fleshed out and developed. I'm not sure what it was, but I couldn't fully connect to it.
And don't even get me started on the throwaway suspense plot. Besides it being the reason Deck came back into Emme's life....there was absolutely no reason to even include it as a sub-plot. It was weak by most standards, but unbelievable so by KA standards.
However, it was great re-visiting with old friends...and KA does some super cameos. Even if they are quick driveby cameos, just seeing a beloved character's name can quickly transport me to what I felt reading their book. So cheers to you Nina, Max, Laurie, Tate, Lexi, Ty, Faye, Chace, Zara, Reece and Lee!
This was a great addition to the Colorado Mountain series and with one book left, I'm really sad to eventually have to say goodbye.
August 16, 2016
*** 3.40 ***
Buddy read with my fellow KA addicts over at BB&B!!! Another book, another overbearing alpha male:):):)
The alpha males Kristen Ashley creates and I have a very passionate love-hate relationship! We don't always get along, we almost always have very different political views, but usually we have chemistry when it comes to sex. They are all super-fast with getting the girl, bossy and abrasive, and we should note that they never like it when another guy acts the same way as they do and call it creepy, wrong and off... Hahaha! Pot meet cattle!!!
This time, Deck is most of those things, but somehow his chemistry with Emme, and subsequently with me, was just not that great... Yes, he brought it, but him going all alpha and appropriating not only her sex life, but also her life in general, was just a bit too much in the little time they had together...
....“When it comes to my work, Jacob, you don’t get to make that call,” she declared.
“When it comes to my girl bein’ at work and dealin’ with this guy, I do,” he shot back....
Also, his claim that he had known her for many years before and always had an affinity for her is bull, because in all the time he knew her before, when she was a bit heavier, was not wearing flashy clothes and was not having expensive haircuts, he not once had a sexual or even a hint of physical attraction to her. He just liked to shoot the breeze with her and appreciated her personality, but was head over hills into his fabulously shallow, but gorgeous "high maintenance" girlfriend... Now she put some effort into her looks and boom, he is all over her! Yep, I wold say he is the shallow one...
....“The last few days, he’d struggled with the fact that it was not lost on him that Emme not doing this years ago meant he didn’t see deeper what she had to offer nor did he feel how they’d connected. He’d lost time, they both had, because he was young and shallow, blinded by Elsbeth having that without having what was more important.
That said, he sure as fuck wasn’t complaining that Emme now had it all....
So, he was shallow, he did not sizzle in bed, and he tried to manipulate her life and work by going behind her back and yelling at her.... Not my dream alpha male for sure!!!
Emme was cool. KA does some good female leads, but at the end KA put her in a position where she apologized to her man for yelling at her, and I just about ripped the book apart... Really, KA? Really???
However, even with all the things that drove me to anger with the main characters, I still mostly enjoyed it... It had that elusive quality of small town story telling that KA is such a master at! The catching up with characters from this series was very welcome as usual and the small information catching-up passages were among the ones i cherished the most... We also got a baby, a dog, and a Bronco truck, appropriately named Persephone:):):) It was a solid addition to the series.
Now I wish everyone Happy Reading and may you never feel let down by a book!!!
Buddy read with my fellow KA addicts over at BB&B!!! Another book, another overbearing alpha male:):):)
The alpha males Kristen Ashley creates and I have a very passionate love-hate relationship! We don't always get along, we almost always have very different political views, but usually we have chemistry when it comes to sex. They are all super-fast with getting the girl, bossy and abrasive, and we should note that they never like it when another guy acts the same way as they do and call it creepy, wrong and off... Hahaha! Pot meet cattle!!!
This time, Deck is most of those things, but somehow his chemistry with Emme, and subsequently with me, was just not that great... Yes, he brought it, but him going all alpha and appropriating not only her sex life, but also her life in general, was just a bit too much in the little time they had together...
....“When it comes to my work, Jacob, you don’t get to make that call,” she declared.
“When it comes to my girl bein’ at work and dealin’ with this guy, I do,” he shot back....
Also, his claim that he had known her for many years before and always had an affinity for her is bull, because in all the time he knew her before, when she was a bit heavier, was not wearing flashy clothes and was not having expensive haircuts, he not once had a sexual or even a hint of physical attraction to her. He just liked to shoot the breeze with her and appreciated her personality, but was head over hills into his fabulously shallow, but gorgeous "high maintenance" girlfriend... Now she put some effort into her looks and boom, he is all over her! Yep, I wold say he is the shallow one...
....“The last few days, he’d struggled with the fact that it was not lost on him that Emme not doing this years ago meant he didn’t see deeper what she had to offer nor did he feel how they’d connected. He’d lost time, they both had, because he was young and shallow, blinded by Elsbeth having that without having what was more important.
That said, he sure as fuck wasn’t complaining that Emme now had it all....
So, he was shallow, he did not sizzle in bed, and he tried to manipulate her life and work by going behind her back and yelling at her.... Not my dream alpha male for sure!!!
Emme was cool. KA does some good female leads, but at the end KA put her in a position where she apologized to her man for yelling at her, and I just about ripped the book apart... Really, KA? Really???
However, even with all the things that drove me to anger with the main characters, I still mostly enjoyed it... It had that elusive quality of small town story telling that KA is such a master at! The catching up with characters from this series was very welcome as usual and the small information catching-up passages were among the ones i cherished the most... We also got a baby, a dog, and a Bronco truck, appropriately named Persephone:):):) It was a solid addition to the series.
Now I wish everyone Happy Reading and may you never feel let down by a book!!!
February 23, 2015
Thank you Kristen Ashley, for yet ANOTHER Colorado Mountain Man for me to drool over! Jacob Decker, or ‘Deck’, is the best friend of Chace Keaton from Breathe. Oh God, give me a moment to hyperventilate at the mention of that man! Oh Chace… *dreamy sigh*. Ahem, ok I’m done, back to Deck, who is totally droolworthy in his own right...
Deck is a badass bounty hunter/investigator type of guy who has been called to Gnaw Bone to assist the Police in tracking down and bringing in a local crime ring.
When he arrives in town, he gets a very pleasant surprise when he runs into Emmanuelle, a friend from his past, who with one look, completely knocks him on his ass. Deck and Emme met 12 years ago when Deck started dating Emme’s best friend. Over five years they grew extremely close, but they lost touch when Deck’s relationship fell apart. Now, nine years later, they discover that the very special bond they once shared is still very much there, and they don’t waste any time catching up and quickly infiltrating each other’s lives. And God, I love that! No messing about, no game playing, they acknowledge how much they have missed each other, and they are right back to where they always were, except this time they allow their previously unexplored feelings to blossom.
But of course there are complications – mainly that the crime ring Deck is in town to investigate includes Emme’s boyfriend. But that’s a minor issue to a protective, possessive, controlling and badass uber Alpha like Deck, and it’s not too long before he gets Emme exactly where he wants her.
Thank God, Emme doesn’t put up too much of a fight, and as expected, the relationship between these two characters is absolutely beautiful! They’re open and honest, with lots of focus on the little moments that KA does so brilliantly – the funny moments, the banter, the arguments, and of course the sex. Lots and lots of sex! Damn, Emme is a lucky girl!!!
The relationship is also, thankfully, functional… mostly. Emme has some nastiness in her past which continues to impact on her, and causes some issues, but it didn’t really bother me. It was more like a background issue, and although it impacted on Emme heavily, and therefore the way she handled their relationship, in fine Alpha form, Deck wasn’t about to put up with any shit from her, so at no stage did it get carried away. He is there for her, supporting her, calling her out whenever she tries to push him away, and just being generally awesome the whole way through.
The book is completely focussed on Deck and Emme – mainly their relationship, of course, but also on the other aspects of their lives (family, pets, house renovations and the past) - and I enjoyed how it all tied in together. I did feel, however, that the crime-based part of the story that Deck was involved in was a little weak. Of course this could be a good thing, because how much more can the citizens of Gnaw Bone and Carnal possibly endure? It’s enough to bring the two of them together, and provide a bit of storyline away from the romance, but it sort of fizzles out by the end, and I honestly didn’t care what happened. For me, it was all about Emme and Deck.
And of course, the rest of the crew! There is lots of time with Chace (and Faye), which is awesome, because Chase is one of my all-time fave KA men! And I loved that we got to see some of their story progression. Plus the bond between Deck and Chace is something really special, and I may or may not have teared up a bit when they had a moment. There’s also glimpses of the other Colorado guys, and even a cameo from a couple of the Hot Bunch *swoon*. But it’s the girls who feature in this one, as the Colorado women accept Emme into their posse.
This book is heavy on the KA-alpha speak. If you’re a frequent reader of Kristen Ashley you’ll know exactly what I mean by this. With the story told in dual POV, we not only get Deck’s dialogue, but also his inner monologue, and as much as I love KA’s style, I will confess that there were times I had to reread passages over again to figure out what he was actually saying/thinking. But the man is awesome, and it all adds to his character, so it wasn’t a problem for me.
While not packing the punch that I usually get from a Kristen Ashley book, this was still a great read. I loved the characters, I loved their story, and it’s pure KA - the big moments, the little moments, and even those deep and meaningful conversations with one person laying it all out while the other person constantly interrupts - it’s all there! I found the transition from the end of the book to the epilogue to be a little bit weird, with the story abruptly ending (to the point where I didn't actually realise it was the end of the book) and then instantly picking up again in the epilogue…? But it does continue on to give us some WONDERFUL glimpses of Deck and Emme’s future, and I was left with a massive smile on my face at the satisfyingly swoony completion of their story.
Loved it – 4 stars.
*ARC received via NetGalley, courtesy of Forever (Grand Central Publishing), in exchange for an honest review*
Deck is a badass bounty hunter/investigator type of guy who has been called to Gnaw Bone to assist the Police in tracking down and bringing in a local crime ring.
When he arrives in town, he gets a very pleasant surprise when he runs into Emmanuelle, a friend from his past, who with one look, completely knocks him on his ass. Deck and Emme met 12 years ago when Deck started dating Emme’s best friend. Over five years they grew extremely close, but they lost touch when Deck’s relationship fell apart. Now, nine years later, they discover that the very special bond they once shared is still very much there, and they don’t waste any time catching up and quickly infiltrating each other’s lives. And God, I love that! No messing about, no game playing, they acknowledge how much they have missed each other, and they are right back to where they always were, except this time they allow their previously unexplored feelings to blossom.
But of course there are complications – mainly that the crime ring Deck is in town to investigate includes Emme’s boyfriend. But that’s a minor issue to a protective, possessive, controlling and badass uber Alpha like Deck, and it’s not too long before he gets Emme exactly where he wants her.
“Your girl?” I asked, my voice coming out in a near on squeak.
“Yeah,” he answered, his voice deep, low and firm.
“This is, well…kinda weird.” Understatement! “And fast.” Extreme understatement!
“Met you twelve years ago and we’re just gettin’ here. I don’t call that fast. I call that a waste of fuckin’ time I’m about to rectify.”
Thank God, Emme doesn’t put up too much of a fight, and as expected, the relationship between these two characters is absolutely beautiful! They’re open and honest, with lots of focus on the little moments that KA does so brilliantly – the funny moments, the banter, the arguments, and of course the sex. Lots and lots of sex! Damn, Emme is a lucky girl!!!
“Emme, baby, talk to me.”
“I want this,” I whispered.
And I did. Badly…
“Good. You got it.”
The relationship is also, thankfully, functional… mostly. Emme has some nastiness in her past which continues to impact on her, and causes some issues, but it didn’t really bother me. It was more like a background issue, and although it impacted on Emme heavily, and therefore the way she handled their relationship, in fine Alpha form, Deck wasn’t about to put up with any shit from her, so at no stage did it get carried away. He is there for her, supporting her, calling her out whenever she tries to push him away, and just being generally awesome the whole way through.
“Because it means that much to me, I’m gonna handle this with care. You just gotta believe me.”
The book is completely focussed on Deck and Emme – mainly their relationship, of course, but also on the other aspects of their lives (family, pets, house renovations and the past) - and I enjoyed how it all tied in together. I did feel, however, that the crime-based part of the story that Deck was involved in was a little weak. Of course this could be a good thing, because how much more can the citizens of Gnaw Bone and Carnal possibly endure? It’s enough to bring the two of them together, and provide a bit of storyline away from the romance, but it sort of fizzles out by the end, and I honestly didn’t care what happened. For me, it was all about Emme and Deck.
And of course, the rest of the crew! There is lots of time with Chace (and Faye), which is awesome, because Chase is one of my all-time fave KA men! And I loved that we got to see some of their story progression. Plus the bond between Deck and Chace is something really special, and I may or may not have teared up a bit when they had a moment. There’s also glimpses of the other Colorado guys, and even a cameo from a couple of the Hot Bunch *swoon*. But it’s the girls who feature in this one, as the Colorado women accept Emme into their posse.
“Is the sex good?” … “I hope it’s good but not great,” Krystal remarked. “Sex slave to an alpha. Bad news.”
This time my head didn’t jerk. I blinked again.
“I’m a sex slave to an alpha and I have no complaints,” Lauren muttered, grinning at Zara.
“Me either,” Zara replied, grinning back.
“I’ve had mine longer than all of you,” Nina announced. “And I’m of a mind that there will never be a time to complain.”
This book is heavy on the KA-alpha speak. If you’re a frequent reader of Kristen Ashley you’ll know exactly what I mean by this. With the story told in dual POV, we not only get Deck’s dialogue, but also his inner monologue, and as much as I love KA’s style, I will confess that there were times I had to reread passages over again to figure out what he was actually saying/thinking. But the man is awesome, and it all adds to his character, so it wasn’t a problem for me.
While not packing the punch that I usually get from a Kristen Ashley book, this was still a great read. I loved the characters, I loved their story, and it’s pure KA - the big moments, the little moments, and even those deep and meaningful conversations with one person laying it all out while the other person constantly interrupts - it’s all there! I found the transition from the end of the book to the epilogue to be a little bit weird, with the story abruptly ending (to the point where I didn't actually realise it was the end of the book) and then instantly picking up again in the epilogue…? But it does continue on to give us some WONDERFUL glimpses of Deck and Emme’s future, and I was left with a massive smile on my face at the satisfyingly swoony completion of their story.
Loved it – 4 stars.
*ARC received via NetGalley, courtesy of Forever (Grand Central Publishing), in exchange for an honest review*
May 25, 2017
This was Kristen Ashley awesomeness in a vein reminiscent of Breathe and Sweet Dreams. I enjoyed every minute if it. Enough said!
July 20, 2014
ARC received on behalf of Forever (Grand Central Publishing) from NetGalley
Another 5 Stars for KA
For nine years, Jacob ‘Deck’ Decker has let the beauty escape him. But when he hears a familiar voice from his past, all the time he’s lost rushes into his thoughts and he isn’t about to let that kind of beauty slip through his fingers again.
Deck never thought he would see Emme again after he shut the door in her face all those years ago, but when he’s brought on to help an investigation in Gnaw Bone, he’s seeing things for the first time that his heart never before revealed.
Emme has changed, she’s still the same smart and friendly girl that Deck remembers spending all that time with, but her beauty is surprising. Always a bit hidden behind a mask of simple and plain, Emme has grown into a woman. For years Deck longed for the love of the wrong woman, not realizing that what he needed was the best friend of the woman that broke his heart.
”You think you lost beauty, Jacob, but you didn't. Just turn the dial.”
Deck’s brought in to the fold when another crime spree takes hold of the quaint mountain town, but when he sees the suspects he knows there is no way he will turn down helping the local authorities. He knows the face of the woman on that board, a woman that could never be capable of what she’s suspected of. Clearing her name is his first priority, getting her into his bed is his second.
In the days after seeing each other for the first time, Emme can’t seem to stay away from Deck; dinners, phone calls… but the only problem is that Emme has a man in her life. A man that came to be after she realizes just how alone she is, a man that she doesn't want to commit to. Deck’s return is everything that she’s always wanted but never could have. Deck isn't going to waste any time making her realize that he’s the only man for her.
”This was a kaleidoscope of beauty, the dials spinning, ever changing, but never anything short of spectacular.”
There is just some things you are guaranteed when you dive into a Kristen Ashley book. Sure you get the alpha male, the bit of suspense/drama, bad-ass men who may or may not be on the right side of the law; but you get something even more spectacular. You get a story that gives you a complete escape from reality. The type of story that has you swooning and wanting a man to come sweep you off your feet, while tossing you over his shoulder and carrying you away. There is just something flawless about the heroes she creates while ensuring that you get the perfect heroines.
KA does it again, Deck might just be my favorite of all the CM men. It didn't have all the action that the prior ones held, but it was packed full of sweet; making it one of my favorites of the series. Deck, like the other ultra-alphas isn't going to take no for an answer, he knows that if he doesn't push Emme that she will allow the trauma of her past take away the possibility to be happy, to be with the man she loves. There was just something about him that was perfect
These two share such a beautiful story that started off as friendship, but everyone else could see that there was so much more beneath the surface. Deck’s character was absolutely fantastic. Down to the way he treated, handled and loved Emme, to his deep friendship with Chace. Emme was such a lovable character, instantly charmed by her. Usually the insecure type heroines can be a bit much to take, but there was something about Emme and the reasons for her actions that makes you love her even more.
Another great installment in a brilliant series by the master of alpha males.
Another 5 Stars for KA
For nine years, Jacob ‘Deck’ Decker has let the beauty escape him. But when he hears a familiar voice from his past, all the time he’s lost rushes into his thoughts and he isn’t about to let that kind of beauty slip through his fingers again.
Deck never thought he would see Emme again after he shut the door in her face all those years ago, but when he’s brought on to help an investigation in Gnaw Bone, he’s seeing things for the first time that his heart never before revealed.
Emme has changed, she’s still the same smart and friendly girl that Deck remembers spending all that time with, but her beauty is surprising. Always a bit hidden behind a mask of simple and plain, Emme has grown into a woman. For years Deck longed for the love of the wrong woman, not realizing that what he needed was the best friend of the woman that broke his heart.
”You think you lost beauty, Jacob, but you didn't. Just turn the dial.”
Deck’s brought in to the fold when another crime spree takes hold of the quaint mountain town, but when he sees the suspects he knows there is no way he will turn down helping the local authorities. He knows the face of the woman on that board, a woman that could never be capable of what she’s suspected of. Clearing her name is his first priority, getting her into his bed is his second.
In the days after seeing each other for the first time, Emme can’t seem to stay away from Deck; dinners, phone calls… but the only problem is that Emme has a man in her life. A man that came to be after she realizes just how alone she is, a man that she doesn't want to commit to. Deck’s return is everything that she’s always wanted but never could have. Deck isn't going to waste any time making her realize that he’s the only man for her.
”This was a kaleidoscope of beauty, the dials spinning, ever changing, but never anything short of spectacular.”
There is just some things you are guaranteed when you dive into a Kristen Ashley book. Sure you get the alpha male, the bit of suspense/drama, bad-ass men who may or may not be on the right side of the law; but you get something even more spectacular. You get a story that gives you a complete escape from reality. The type of story that has you swooning and wanting a man to come sweep you off your feet, while tossing you over his shoulder and carrying you away. There is just something flawless about the heroes she creates while ensuring that you get the perfect heroines.
KA does it again, Deck might just be my favorite of all the CM men. It didn't have all the action that the prior ones held, but it was packed full of sweet; making it one of my favorites of the series. Deck, like the other ultra-alphas isn't going to take no for an answer, he knows that if he doesn't push Emme that she will allow the trauma of her past take away the possibility to be happy, to be with the man she loves. There was just something about him that was perfect
These two share such a beautiful story that started off as friendship, but everyone else could see that there was so much more beneath the surface. Deck’s character was absolutely fantastic. Down to the way he treated, handled and loved Emme, to his deep friendship with Chace. Emme was such a lovable character, instantly charmed by her. Usually the insecure type heroines can be a bit much to take, but there was something about Emme and the reasons for her actions that makes you love her even more.
Another great installment in a brilliant series by the master of alpha males.
March 25, 2014
I feel like everyone is going to line up and do this to me...
But Reviewing is all about being honest with your opinion yeah?
Ok well mine was, that although I worship at the alter of Queen KA.
This book disappointed me.
It was missing the ZING that makes them Colorado Mountain Men.
Max INVENTED it.
Tate BATHED in it.
Ty ATE it for breakfast.
Chase MUNCHED on it.
Graham, kinda had it.
Decker just missed out... Well maybe he dipped his big toe in it at times.
I felt like I was reading a book that would of been better suited in "The 'Burg" than CM...
and the heroine... oh god what was her name.. Um Emmie! That's it..
She just wasn't... what I expected.
I'm super happy that KA has a publisher now, but if they are going to cut out all the bits that make her KA where the hell is the fun in that?
We as readers,
need the craziness!
The funniness!
The seriousness!
The sexiness!
and down right dirtiness!!
DON'T TAKE IT ALL AWAY FROM US!!
So all in all. Did I like it? Yes I did.
Did I love it? No No I didn't?
and will I read it umpteen million times like all her other books? No, sadly I will prob skip this and Jagged.
Don't worry Ty! You are still my main man!
but don't for one second think I am off the KA train! I'm still riding first class waiting for EVERYTHING else to come out!
But Reviewing is all about being honest with your opinion yeah?
Ok well mine was, that although I worship at the alter of Queen KA.
This book disappointed me.
It was missing the ZING that makes them Colorado Mountain Men.
Max INVENTED it.
Tate BATHED in it.
Ty ATE it for breakfast.
Chase MUNCHED on it.
Graham, kinda had it.
Decker just missed out... Well maybe he dipped his big toe in it at times.
I felt like I was reading a book that would of been better suited in "The 'Burg" than CM...
and the heroine... oh god what was her name.. Um Emmie! That's it..
She just wasn't... what I expected.
I'm super happy that KA has a publisher now, but if they are going to cut out all the bits that make her KA where the hell is the fun in that?
We as readers,
need the craziness!
The funniness!
The seriousness!
The sexiness!
and down right dirtiness!!
DON'T TAKE IT ALL AWAY FROM US!!
So all in all. Did I like it? Yes I did.
Did I love it? No No I didn't?
and will I read it umpteen million times like all her other books? No, sadly I will prob skip this and Jagged.
Don't worry Ty! You are still my main man!
but don't for one second think I am off the KA train! I'm still riding first class waiting for EVERYTHING else to come out!
November 27, 2014
3.5...almost a 4! I have to say I was really surprised that this was a tame as it was. I am so used to reading KA and following the pattern of increasing drama and darkness with her characters, but this one was pretty much drama free. Kaleidoscope was a fairly vanilla second chance love story with some of the normal KA craziness sprinkled in.
What is good...Jacob "Deck" Decker. Yippee...I love that he has his time in the sun. What a good guy in and out. He is strong, sexy and pure alpha. His sexual banter is both hot and swoonworthy. His counterpart Emme...well she is good stuff too! Emme is sassy, strong, and just a beam of light. They have known each other for what seems a lifetime and they have belonged together from the first hello. Time and other life circumstances have kept them friends and apart until a case brings them together again. It takes Deck 10 seconds to want Emme forever, and it takes Emme 30 seconds to say ok!
What was off...well, the lack of crazy! I love KA insanity. I missed the silly scenarios of chaos, the alpha male grunting, the girl posse sex talk and banter, and more importantly the main angst was not there. Instead Deck and Emme get together and their love progresses through hours and days. They work through some issues and survive a potential ring of thieves, that never really threatens them. Basically Kaleidoscope is a story of two characters who realize they need each other and who have always loved one another.
I miss the wildness and the complete lol moments that only KA can provide. I still enjoyed it, but just didn't expect it!
What is good...Jacob "Deck" Decker. Yippee...I love that he has his time in the sun. What a good guy in and out. He is strong, sexy and pure alpha. His sexual banter is both hot and swoonworthy. His counterpart Emme...well she is good stuff too! Emme is sassy, strong, and just a beam of light. They have known each other for what seems a lifetime and they have belonged together from the first hello. Time and other life circumstances have kept them friends and apart until a case brings them together again. It takes Deck 10 seconds to want Emme forever, and it takes Emme 30 seconds to say ok!
What was off...well, the lack of crazy! I love KA insanity. I missed the silly scenarios of chaos, the alpha male grunting, the girl posse sex talk and banter, and more importantly the main angst was not there. Instead Deck and Emme get together and their love progresses through hours and days. They work through some issues and survive a potential ring of thieves, that never really threatens them. Basically Kaleidoscope is a story of two characters who realize they need each other and who have always loved one another.
I miss the wildness and the complete lol moments that only KA can provide. I still enjoyed it, but just didn't expect it!
August 10, 2016
4.5
I enjoyed this book.
I loved the previous connection between Jacob and Emme. It just added a depth to their relationship for me. And I loved that it took Jacob seeing her with someone else for him to realize that he’s always wanted her for himself. I love those type of books.
I have to talk about the character’s names for a moment. In past KA books, I’ve had issues with the names. Jacob’s name (either Jacob or Deck) worked for me. Both names made sense. I wasn’t as sold on Emme’s name. Emme was fine. Perfect even. But Emmanuelle reminded me of a guy’s name. So that threw me off whenever I saw it.
I’m not going to reveal Emme’s past but I will say that I’m not sure how I feel about it and how the story played out in the book. It wasn’t my favorite part. As for the case that Deck was working on…I hated Dane. I didn’t like him from the time he was first introduced and as if his actions, and connection to the case Jacob was working wasn’t enough, he made me want to go all Dexter on him for what he did to Deke’s Kaleidoscope! HOW DARE HE!? That was beyond unforgivable!
Overall, I did really enjoy this book. I loved catching up with the other couples from the series. I love how they’re all good friends.
I enjoyed this book.
I loved the previous connection between Jacob and Emme. It just added a depth to their relationship for me. And I loved that it took Jacob seeing her with someone else for him to realize that he’s always wanted her for himself. I love those type of books.
I have to talk about the character’s names for a moment. In past KA books, I’ve had issues with the names. Jacob’s name (either Jacob or Deck) worked for me. Both names made sense. I wasn’t as sold on Emme’s name. Emme was fine. Perfect even. But Emmanuelle reminded me of a guy’s name. So that threw me off whenever I saw it.
I’m not going to reveal Emme’s past but I will say that I’m not sure how I feel about it and how the story played out in the book. It wasn’t my favorite part. As for the case that Deck was working on…I hated Dane. I didn’t like him from the time he was first introduced and as if his actions, and connection to the case Jacob was working wasn’t enough, he made me want to go all Dexter on him for what he did to Deke’s Kaleidoscope! HOW DARE HE!? That was beyond unforgivable!
Overall, I did really enjoy this book. I loved catching up with the other couples from the series. I love how they’re all good friends.
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