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McClouds & Friends #11
In For the Kill
The risks ex-cop Sam Petrie has taken have turned his life into a train wreck. So he has nothing to lose by doubling down as the elusive Svetlana Ardova's unwanted bodyguard on a potentially deadly trip to Italy.
Ever since the McClouds rescued Sveti from certain death, her crusade against modern slavery has blazoned a bulls-eye on her chest, but when one of the threats against her almost hits the mark, Sam's protective instincts go into overdrive. Every lethal obstacle and trap they encounter ups the stakes--and the undeniable heat between them.
Now they're spiraling in on a deadly and explosive secret--one that could either redeem them or destroy them . . . and the closer they get, the shorter the fuse . . .
Ever since the McClouds rescued Sveti from certain death, her crusade against modern slavery has blazoned a bulls-eye on her chest, but when one of the threats against her almost hits the mark, Sam's protective instincts go into overdrive. Every lethal obstacle and trap they encounter ups the stakes--and the undeniable heat between them.
Now they're spiraling in on a deadly and explosive secret--one that could either redeem them or destroy them . . . and the closer they get, the shorter the fuse . . .
400 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2015
83 people are currently reading
1219 people want to read
About the author
Shannon McKenna
124 books1,447 followersAlso wrote five category romances under the penname Shannon Anderson
::From The Author's Website::
HOW IT ALL BEGAN
I started writing my first romance novel in secret. I was working a temp job in an insurance office in Manhattan at the time, and the office manager had made it clear that even if there was nothing to do, I still had to look busy-- never one of my big talents. I felt bad about the wasted time, though, and I needed something to round out my other chosen career, which was singing. Yeah, that's right. Most artists choose a more practical Plan B to back up their improbable Plan A. Me? No way. "Long Shot" is my middle name.
So I sneakily set up a Document 1 and a Document 2 with a spreadsheet on it. If my Boss du Jour walked by I could quick-like-a-bunny switch screens, and whenever the coast was clear, I went back to my story. Not that I was slacking, mind you. If there was work to be done, I did it. The sneakiness felt familiar, though, because I've been teased about reading romances since I was a kid. I think the day I finally grew up was the day I stopped trying to cover up what I was reading on the bus, train or subway. Let people think whatever they like.
It wasn't until I moved to Italy (details of that Long Shot provided later on) that I got serious about writing, though. I found myself with many long, quiet days alone with nothing to do, so I slogged my way bravely to the end of the manuscript and sent it out. Everybody rejected it-except for Kensington. I wrote for them for a few years, and then made a bid for an erotic novella for the new Brava imprint, and oh joy, they accepted it. Then I wrote BEHIND CLOSED DOORS. And so on, and so forth.
That's how I started. I can't think of anything I'd rather do. I never knew it would be so scary, and so hard . . . all that solitude and silence, a blank computer screen, and no one to blame. But still. It's worth it. It's great.
::From The Author's Website::
HOW IT ALL BEGAN
I started writing my first romance novel in secret. I was working a temp job in an insurance office in Manhattan at the time, and the office manager had made it clear that even if there was nothing to do, I still had to look busy-- never one of my big talents. I felt bad about the wasted time, though, and I needed something to round out my other chosen career, which was singing. Yeah, that's right. Most artists choose a more practical Plan B to back up their improbable Plan A. Me? No way. "Long Shot" is my middle name.
So I sneakily set up a Document 1 and a Document 2 with a spreadsheet on it. If my Boss du Jour walked by I could quick-like-a-bunny switch screens, and whenever the coast was clear, I went back to my story. Not that I was slacking, mind you. If there was work to be done, I did it. The sneakiness felt familiar, though, because I've been teased about reading romances since I was a kid. I think the day I finally grew up was the day I stopped trying to cover up what I was reading on the bus, train or subway. Let people think whatever they like.
It wasn't until I moved to Italy (details of that Long Shot provided later on) that I got serious about writing, though. I found myself with many long, quiet days alone with nothing to do, so I slogged my way bravely to the end of the manuscript and sent it out. Everybody rejected it-except for Kensington. I wrote for them for a few years, and then made a bid for an erotic novella for the new Brava imprint, and oh joy, they accepted it. Then I wrote BEHIND CLOSED DOORS. And so on, and so forth.
That's how I started. I can't think of anything I'd rather do. I never knew it would be so scary, and so hard . . . all that solitude and silence, a blank computer screen, and no one to blame. But still. It's worth it. It's great.
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July 15, 2015
3.75 Stars
I've been a fan of this series since I first discovered it a few years ago. Shannon Mckenna has this knack for writing heroes that are just the right side of domineering and oh so sexy. If you've read any of her work before, then you know exactly what I'm talking about. It's a formula that she has, and it works. She also writes some heart-pounding suspense and some of the most twisted bad guys I've read. Whenever I'm in the mood for sexy romantic suspense, she's been my go-to author. I've also been waiting for Sveti to get her book ever since we met her as a little girl in Extreme Danger.
There's a lot of plot and secondary character development that takes place throughout the series, so this is not a book I'd recommend reading as a standalone. You just wouldn't enjoy it as much. That being said, onto the review...
Svetlana had a rough introduction into adulthood. Having violently lost her father and mother and then sold into human organ trafficking at the young age of 12 she had to grow up quick. If it wasn't for Nick rescuing her, she would have died. Now she's dedicated her entire life to helping any and all victims of such crimes, even at the risk to her own safety.
Sam has been completely enthralled with Svetlana the second he first laid eyes on her. And that one kiss they shared in Fatal Strike? Holy shit! I was dying for more of that. To say that Sam had an obsession with her would be an understatement. He's basically in love with her and would give anything for just a scrap of attention from her. I have to say, I adored Same even though his constant mood swings did make me dizzy. The man could flip a switch and go from sweet and sexy to angry in the span of a second. But I suppose their relationship was anything but normal, so that goes with the territory.
Svetlana (or Sveti)...(Pause for minor quibble here)
Now my full name is Svetlana, and I have never in my life known any Svetlana wanting to go by Sveti. Sveta, yes. I read Sveti and I hear 'sweaty'. I swears, if I didn't love Shannon McKenna's writing this would have driven me absolutely batty...well...more than it did anyway. Sorry, had to get that off my chest. Moving on.
Svetlana has been just as intrigued by Sam but she's determined to stay away from him at any cost. She knows that he can seduce her into what he wants, and he's just too much for her. But chemistry like that can only be denied for so long before it ignites to a burning passion...
Sam, while being the dirty talking alpha that he was, had an incredibly sweet side to him too. Which just made me want to shake Sveti to see reason when it came to him at times.
When an old enemy resurfaces and her life is in danger Sam is determined to be the one to keep her safe. So he enlists to be her bodyguard during her work trip to Europe. And of course he wants a chance to explore their newly found...uhem...arrangement.
If you've read any book by this author before, then you know that her heroes more or less tend to sound the same when it comes to the sexy times. If terms like "muff" and "girl juice" bother you...well...just saying.
As deliciously sexy as Sam and Sveti were together, it was almost too much for me at times. I'd say a good half of the book was them going at it...everywhere. I also had a hard time believing one particular scene where Sam takes her virginity and immediately after they have sex like 4 more times. I was actually cringing for her poor muff. True story.
It's not long before something that started out as a purely physical thing, at least for Sveti, begins to turn into something so much more.
Although you can say that the books are borderline formulaic, there's one thing you can't take away from them. They're entertaining as hell. They've been my guilty pleasure for as long as I can remember. I love Shannon's alphas and while some of the terminology they like to use sounds the same, they still stand out from one another. I've certainly had my favorites throughout the series and Sam is definitely up there.
The second half of this book (or the last 30%) I couldn't put down. There was one particular scene where I wanted to shake Sveti for her borderline TSTL choice of action. But I was too engrossed in the story to mind it too much. There was one particular twist that while I mostly saw it coming, did still throw me for a loop.
An entertaining and sexy read from beginning to end.
For more reviews visit
He wished he could crawl into her dreams and do battle with the monsters there. She deserved a champion, even inside her mind. Hell, especially inside her mind.
I've been a fan of this series since I first discovered it a few years ago. Shannon Mckenna has this knack for writing heroes that are just the right side of domineering and oh so sexy. If you've read any of her work before, then you know exactly what I'm talking about. It's a formula that she has, and it works. She also writes some heart-pounding suspense and some of the most twisted bad guys I've read. Whenever I'm in the mood for sexy romantic suspense, she's been my go-to author. I've also been waiting for Sveti to get her book ever since we met her as a little girl in Extreme Danger.
There's a lot of plot and secondary character development that takes place throughout the series, so this is not a book I'd recommend reading as a standalone. You just wouldn't enjoy it as much. That being said, onto the review...
Svetlana had a rough introduction into adulthood. Having violently lost her father and mother and then sold into human organ trafficking at the young age of 12 she had to grow up quick. If it wasn't for Nick rescuing her, she would have died. Now she's dedicated her entire life to helping any and all victims of such crimes, even at the risk to her own safety.
Sam has been completely enthralled with Svetlana the second he first laid eyes on her. And that one kiss they shared in Fatal Strike? Holy shit! I was dying for more of that. To say that Sam had an obsession with her would be an understatement. He's basically in love with her and would give anything for just a scrap of attention from her. I have to say, I adored Same even though his constant mood swings did make me dizzy. The man could flip a switch and go from sweet and sexy to angry in the span of a second. But I suppose their relationship was anything but normal, so that goes with the territory.
Svetlana (or Sveti)...(Pause for minor quibble here)
Now my full name is Svetlana, and I have never in my life known any Svetlana wanting to go by Sveti. Sveta, yes. I read Sveti and I hear 'sweaty'. I swears, if I didn't love Shannon McKenna's writing this would have driven me absolutely batty...well...more than it did anyway. Sorry, had to get that off my chest. Moving on.
Svetlana has been just as intrigued by Sam but she's determined to stay away from him at any cost. She knows that he can seduce her into what he wants, and he's just too much for her. But chemistry like that can only be denied for so long before it ignites to a burning passion...
Sam, while being the dirty talking alpha that he was, had an incredibly sweet side to him too. Which just made me want to shake Sveti to see reason when it came to him at times.
When an old enemy resurfaces and her life is in danger Sam is determined to be the one to keep her safe. So he enlists to be her bodyguard during her work trip to Europe. And of course he wants a chance to explore their newly found...uhem...arrangement.
If you've read any book by this author before, then you know that her heroes more or less tend to sound the same when it comes to the sexy times. If terms like "muff" and "girl juice" bother you...well...just saying.
As deliciously sexy as Sam and Sveti were together, it was almost too much for me at times. I'd say a good half of the book was them going at it...everywhere. I also had a hard time believing one particular scene where Sam takes her virginity and immediately after they have sex like 4 more times. I was actually cringing for her poor muff. True story.
It's not long before something that started out as a purely physical thing, at least for Sveti, begins to turn into something so much more.
Although you can say that the books are borderline formulaic, there's one thing you can't take away from them. They're entertaining as hell. They've been my guilty pleasure for as long as I can remember. I love Shannon's alphas and while some of the terminology they like to use sounds the same, they still stand out from one another. I've certainly had my favorites throughout the series and Sam is definitely up there.
The second half of this book (or the last 30%) I couldn't put down. There was one particular scene where I wanted to shake Sveti for her borderline TSTL choice of action. But I was too engrossed in the story to mind it too much. There was one particular twist that while I mostly saw it coming, did still throw me for a loop.
An entertaining and sexy read from beginning to end.
For more reviews visit
December 19, 2014
Just some thoughts about this book and the series in general...
*First of all, I love Shannon McKenna as a writer. I especially enjoy her male pov, and McClouds & Friends is one of my all time favorite RS series. And don't get me started on one of my favorite RS heroes of all time, Connor McCloud (Standing in the Shadows)...*swoon*
However...
*At first, I found In For The Kill very hard to follow. Was it my memory failing me, or did SMcK not do a good enough job of reminding me where we left off with Sam and Sveti? I mean, of course I remembered Sveti and the horrible ordeal she went through (), and I knew there was something brewing between her and detective Sam Petrie, but dang, I couldn't remember much more than that. I kept feeling like I needed to do a reread of the last few books to refresh my memory. I'm afraid this got in the way of my enjoyment of the book. In a perfect world, I would have read the book where Sveti first appeared (who knows what book that was) and also the scenes from the book where Sam first appeared.
Sveti...
*Petrie is obsessed with Sveti, in almost a stalkerish way. This reminded me of Connor McCloud and Erin, so I guess that was a good point.:)
Sam Petrie...
*Petrie is no longer a cop, but I can't remember why. Of course, this bugged me, but I decided to just deal with it and read on...and give up trying to remember any back story.:(
*Sveti and Petrie have a dysfunctional relationship. He is obsessed with her, and unbeknownst to him, she is a little obsessed with him (but she doesn't like that she is). This made for some pretty passionate scenes, especially the , but lots of little arguments and disagreements that were at times wearying. But they made up for this by hitting the sheets--often.
*Despite having her life threatened (again and again), Sveti seems determined to do what she wants to do, consequences be damned. I don't want to call these too stupid to live moments exactly, but damn, she sure liked to court trouble. And with Petrie determined to be her bodyguard, he was often in the line of fire. But despite their feelings for each other, I'm afraid he had little influence over her sometimes reckless actions. Of course if he did there would be no story...
Petrie to the rescue...
*We see/hear from almost all the main characters from the whole series, but I wanted to know/remember, why do Tam and Nick Ward hate Petrie so much? Just another reason why I wished SMcK would've dropped a little hint...
*Sveti and Petrie certainly have a passionate and lustful relationship, but I wasn't quite convinced it was love. I mean, how much did they really know about each other? I know they had a few conversations, but I just didn't feel like it was enough.
*We did learn a few surprising things about Sam Petrie that made him quite an interesting character...
*Once again, SMcK gave us some really scary bad guys with some gruesome and crazy plans, and some true nail biting moments. I thought this was done really well, especially when it all came together in one big action scene near the end of the book. So well done on the suspense--that had me turning the pages as fast as I could.
*Sweet epilogue that ties the entire series up but leaves room for a spinoff. Everyone has at least a cameo appearance/mention in this book but Tam and Val, Nick and Becca, Kev and Edie, and Miles and Lara? are the most prominent.
*To sum up? Lots of hot sex, a decent suspense plot, and a generally likable hero/heroine. If I had remembered more about Sveti and Sam Petrie's backstory, or if the author had kick-started my memory, or if I had read the last 4 series books in a row, perhaps this would've been a 5 star read for me. But since none of those things happened, I have to be truthful and say it didn't quite wow me. But still a solid 4 stars.
ARC provided by Netgalley...
*First of all, I love Shannon McKenna as a writer. I especially enjoy her male pov, and McClouds & Friends is one of my all time favorite RS series. And don't get me started on one of my favorite RS heroes of all time, Connor McCloud (Standing in the Shadows)...*swoon*
However...
*At first, I found In For The Kill very hard to follow. Was it my memory failing me, or did SMcK not do a good enough job of reminding me where we left off with Sam and Sveti? I mean, of course I remembered Sveti and the horrible ordeal she went through (), and I knew there was something brewing between her and detective Sam Petrie, but dang, I couldn't remember much more than that. I kept feeling like I needed to do a reread of the last few books to refresh my memory. I'm afraid this got in the way of my enjoyment of the book. In a perfect world, I would have read the book where Sveti first appeared (who knows what book that was) and also the scenes from the book where Sam first appeared.
Sveti...
*Petrie is obsessed with Sveti, in almost a stalkerish way. This reminded me of Connor McCloud and Erin, so I guess that was a good point.:)
Sam Petrie...
*Petrie is no longer a cop, but I can't remember why. Of course, this bugged me, but I decided to just deal with it and read on...and give up trying to remember any back story.:(
*Sveti and Petrie have a dysfunctional relationship. He is obsessed with her, and unbeknownst to him, she is a little obsessed with him (but she doesn't like that she is). This made for some pretty passionate scenes, especially the , but lots of little arguments and disagreements that were at times wearying. But they made up for this by hitting the sheets--often.
*Despite having her life threatened (again and again), Sveti seems determined to do what she wants to do, consequences be damned. I don't want to call these too stupid to live moments exactly, but damn, she sure liked to court trouble. And with Petrie determined to be her bodyguard, he was often in the line of fire. But despite their feelings for each other, I'm afraid he had little influence over her sometimes reckless actions. Of course if he did there would be no story...
Petrie to the rescue...
*We see/hear from almost all the main characters from the whole series, but I wanted to know/remember, why do Tam and Nick Ward hate Petrie so much? Just another reason why I wished SMcK would've dropped a little hint...
*Sveti and Petrie certainly have a passionate and lustful relationship, but I wasn't quite convinced it was love. I mean, how much did they really know about each other? I know they had a few conversations, but I just didn't feel like it was enough.
*We did learn a few surprising things about Sam Petrie that made him quite an interesting character...
*Once again, SMcK gave us some really scary bad guys with some gruesome and crazy plans, and some true nail biting moments. I thought this was done really well, especially when it all came together in one big action scene near the end of the book. So well done on the suspense--that had me turning the pages as fast as I could.
*Sweet epilogue that ties the entire series up but leaves room for a spinoff. Everyone has at least a cameo appearance/mention in this book but Tam and Val, Nick and Becca, Kev and Edie, and Miles and Lara? are the most prominent.
*To sum up? Lots of hot sex, a decent suspense plot, and a generally likable hero/heroine. If I had remembered more about Sveti and Sam Petrie's backstory, or if the author had kick-started my memory, or if I had read the last 4 series books in a row, perhaps this would've been a 5 star read for me. But since none of those things happened, I have to be truthful and say it didn't quite wow me. But still a solid 4 stars.
ARC provided by Netgalley...
March 25, 2015
After reading the whole series, I have to admit I am very, very disappointed in the last book.
I loved almost all of them and pretty much hated this one. The main dude is the ONLY reason I'm giving this two stars.
Just have to say, WTF had happened with her? She is one of the most stupid and idiotic and irritating heroines I have EVER read. I wanted the bad guy to get her cause honestly, she deserved it. The fact that she lived with TAM, TAM!!! of all people, you'd think she'd learn a thing or two, especially since she's been there for the other books and sh*t happening in them. But no. She behaved like every dumb idiot in a movie who gets killed, only she somehow magically (unfortunately) survived. Very, very, very disappointed.
January 27, 2015
Story Rating ~ 4 Stars
Hero Rating ~ 5 Stars
Heroine Rating ~ 4 Stars
Villain Rating ~ 5 Vile Stars
Action Rating ~ 5 Stars
Heat Level ~ 4 Stars
Ending ~ 5 STARS!
Overall Rating ~ 4.5 Stars
In For The Kill was yet another EXHILARATING read for me from author Shannon McKenna.
As with all the other books in this series I was grabbed easily and hook into the story line. I was easily brought back into the fold of the characters of Sam and Sveti. I remember that first scorching kiss they shared in a previous book and was extremely happy that they finally got their own story.
I really liked the story line, it had many twists and turns that it kept me interested all the way through. The action scenes were SPECTACULAR and had my heart racing as Sam and Sveti ran for their lives on many occasions while trying to stop the bad guys.
I had a few problems with the heroine Sveti, not that I did not like her but I felt most of the book that she either had a serious death wish or she was just too dam brave for her own good. I did not agree with a few decisions she made, one in particular had me wanting to smack her upside her head and ask her why the fuck did you do that? In the end I felt she redeemed herself quite nicely making me forgive her for some of the things she did. She had her reasons and they were made clear.
SAM, SIGH............... Loved him and all his gruff ways. He definitely held his ground with all of the other hero's from this series. The man was like the energizer bunny, he took a licking and kept on ticking. He protected Sveti with every once of his being and I especially LOVED that about him!
At first, I did not feel the love between Sam and Sveti. This was mainly because of the way Sveti acted towards Sam in bed and out of bed. The love/sex scenes were many and they were VERY HOT and SENSUAL. By the end of the book, there was no doubt in my mind about the love these two shared, it blazed off of the pages and I felt it in my very soul.
I have said it many of times and I'm going to say it again, Shannon sure knows how to write some of the evilest villains. Some of the things these villains do are downright vile so if your faint of heart, this book might not be a book for you.
I ABSOLUTELY LOVED that MANY of the characters from this series were added into this book. I LOVED seeing them all together and getting small glimpses into their lives.
All of this is why Shannon McKenna is a MUST read author for me.
Warning, this book is part of a series and you really do need to read the previous books to completely understand the characters and story line.
*A copy of this book was kindly offered by the author in exchange for an honest review.*
* A special thank you going out to Mo ;-)*
February 18, 2015
ARC kindly provided by the author in exchange for an honest review
*Buddy reading with Liz*
I'm SO excited!!! <3333
.......
*2,5 stars*
First of all, I would like to say that I'm a HUGE fan of Shannon McKenna stories in general and of her McClouds and Friends series in particular. For me she's one of the best romantic suspense writer ever. Not only she creates amazingly charismatic hot damaged heroes but her villains are utterly scary.
In For the Kill is the last installment in the series and the one I liked the least.
We met Sveti for the first time in Extreme Danger (the fifth book in the series). At that time she wasn't more than a teenager and she made appearances in pretty much all the following books as a member of the McCloud crowd in general and Nick and Tam's protégée in particular.
As for Sam, he first appeared in Blood and Fire (book # 8), and from the moment they met, the sparkles between him and Sveti never faded one bit, so I was very excited to read their story.
If Sam was up to my expectations, I'm very sad to say that Sveti literally ruined the book for me. I hate TSTL heroines and Sveti, beside being selfish and stupidly stubborn, was the epitome of that annoying as hell kind. That fact was made worse because she was literally raised by the McCloud and Tam, so she of all people should have known better. Poor Sam, I really felt for him.
Another thing that annoyed the hell out of me in this book is that after Sam almost died rescuing Sveti for the xth times, he was given the cold shoulder by the McClouds crowd. Really? *shakes head*
I'm rounding the book up because the first part wasn't as bad as the second. Also, except for the end, I really loved the previous MCs appearances as well as Sam's family.
*Buddy reading with Liz*
I'm SO excited!!! <3333
.......
*2,5 stars*
First of all, I would like to say that I'm a HUGE fan of Shannon McKenna stories in general and of her McClouds and Friends series in particular. For me she's one of the best romantic suspense writer ever. Not only she creates amazingly charismatic hot damaged heroes but her villains are utterly scary.
In For the Kill is the last installment in the series and the one I liked the least.
We met Sveti for the first time in Extreme Danger (the fifth book in the series). At that time she wasn't more than a teenager and she made appearances in pretty much all the following books as a member of the McCloud crowd in general and Nick and Tam's protégée in particular.
As for Sam, he first appeared in Blood and Fire (book # 8), and from the moment they met, the sparkles between him and Sveti never faded one bit, so I was very excited to read their story.
If Sam was up to my expectations, I'm very sad to say that Sveti literally ruined the book for me. I hate TSTL heroines and Sveti, beside being selfish and stupidly stubborn, was the epitome of that annoying as hell kind. That fact was made worse because she was literally raised by the McCloud and Tam, so she of all people should have known better. Poor Sam, I really felt for him.
Another thing that annoyed the hell out of me in this book is that after Sam almost died rescuing Sveti for the xth times, he was given the cold shoulder by the McClouds crowd. Really? *shakes head*
I'm rounding the book up because the first part wasn't as bad as the second. Also, except for the end, I really loved the previous MCs appearances as well as Sam's family.
December 15, 2014
Buddy read with Glamdring
5 PURE PERFECTION STARS ★★★★★
Spoiler free review....
So it's taken awhile for me to get my thoughts in order for this book. I think of all the books I've anticipated for months, this was it for me..
And boy... I WAS NOT DISAPPOINTED..
When I saw that cover, I immediately thought of a young Benicio Del Toro. And then when I started reading, I could imagine Sam in my head as him with that same intensity and that beyond seductive voice...
"You want the naked truth, no masks? You like me this way. You like me strong, and you want something hard to push against. And I've got something really hard for you right here, Sveti."
Good Grief was he HOT! He was everything I dreamt of and more.. He's seduction of Sveti was sweet yet dominant and his over the top Alpha male streak was exactly as I would have expected from any of Shannon's Heroes.
And Sveti, Sweet Sveti.. I had no idea the innocent little girl that the others rescued from Organ trafficker's would be as sassy and as smart as this. Her backbone and her compassion when needed was exactly what a virginal Heroine should be. She refused to submit to Sam yet ultimately knew that when it came right down to it, He was exactly what she needed.
This had all that we've come to expect from Shannon McKenna. Suspense, drama, mind-blowing sex.. And on-the-edge-of-your-seat action. I've said this many times and I'll be happy to say it again. When it comes to Romantic Suspense, Shannon writes it best...
Some authors aspire to be popular, some aspire to be on the Best-selling list and many, many throw writing talent out the door in order to jump on whatever gravy-train is trending and making money. Shannon however has reached the upper-tier. What I consider "Author Royalty"... She writes for creativity's sake, thinks all her characters through and how they fit into the bigger picture but also how they should be with each other not in the way everyday romance would be but how we all would LIKE a romance to be, intense; heartbreaking and soul-shattering! And this book was all that and more...
I'm not sure there's many more to say except that this was phenomenal! An EPIC ending to a truly great series!!!
Well done Shannon McKenna, WELL DONE!!!
ARC kindly provided by the author in exchange for an honest review
5 PURE PERFECTION STARS ★★★★★
Spoiler free review....
So it's taken awhile for me to get my thoughts in order for this book. I think of all the books I've anticipated for months, this was it for me..
And boy... I WAS NOT DISAPPOINTED..
When I saw that cover, I immediately thought of a young Benicio Del Toro. And then when I started reading, I could imagine Sam in my head as him with that same intensity and that beyond seductive voice...
"You want the naked truth, no masks? You like me this way. You like me strong, and you want something hard to push against. And I've got something really hard for you right here, Sveti."
Good Grief was he HOT! He was everything I dreamt of and more.. He's seduction of Sveti was sweet yet dominant and his over the top Alpha male streak was exactly as I would have expected from any of Shannon's Heroes.
And Sveti, Sweet Sveti.. I had no idea the innocent little girl that the others rescued from Organ trafficker's would be as sassy and as smart as this. Her backbone and her compassion when needed was exactly what a virginal Heroine should be. She refused to submit to Sam yet ultimately knew that when it came right down to it, He was exactly what she needed.
This had all that we've come to expect from Shannon McKenna. Suspense, drama, mind-blowing sex.. And on-the-edge-of-your-seat action. I've said this many times and I'll be happy to say it again. When it comes to Romantic Suspense, Shannon writes it best...
Some authors aspire to be popular, some aspire to be on the Best-selling list and many, many throw writing talent out the door in order to jump on whatever gravy-train is trending and making money. Shannon however has reached the upper-tier. What I consider "Author Royalty"... She writes for creativity's sake, thinks all her characters through and how they fit into the bigger picture but also how they should be with each other not in the way everyday romance would be but how we all would LIKE a romance to be, intense; heartbreaking and soul-shattering! And this book was all that and more...
I'm not sure there's many more to say except that this was phenomenal! An EPIC ending to a truly great series!!!
Well done Shannon McKenna, WELL DONE!!!
ARC kindly provided by the author in exchange for an honest review
January 27, 2015
The Stunning Conclusion to the McClouds and Friends Series!
We all remember Sam & Sveti from the previous McCloud books.
Sveti was the girl who was sold to organ traffickers when she was just 12 - and she got rescued just in time and now lives close to all her adopted family - the McClouds & Friends - and she is working hard to stop the organ mafia. Which is why she's about to leave to work in Europe for two years.
Sam used to be a homocide detective who's been helping the McClouds for a while - now he's been put on medical leave and he doesn't really know what to do with his time. He doesn't want to go work for his family's money business.
The only thing he knows is, that he's been in love with Sveti from afar, ever since he met her years ago.
But she seems to hate him. There was this one heated encounter two years ago, but after that she never really looked at him again.
But of course she doesn't hate him. She has a huge crush on him. But love is just not something that she can imagine for herself. With all the horrible things in her past she just can't love someone. Plus she needs to use her time to once and for all stop those horrible organ mafia people.
But Sam is so very tempting.
Maybe just a tiny little taste of what it could be like?
But Sam is not the only after Sveti.
The mafia is hot on her trail - because they think she knows some of her dead mothers secrets.
WHAT WiLL HAPPEN TO SVETi & SAM????
WiLL THERE BE A CHANCE OF A HAPPY EVER FOR THEM?
OR WiLL EVERYBODY DiE???
WiLL THERE BE A CLiFFHANGER???
NOPE . . .
I'm not telling you ☺
Well - ok - there's no Cliffhanger - since it's the last book in the series :((((
_____________________________
Oh noooo - this was really the last book in the McCloud series???
Ugh - so sad that it's over now - I've been reading those books since the first one came out.
Even though I kinda hated them a bit once they just randomly started going the psychic route - but this book is finally back to what the series was like in the beginning!!!
I just LOVED Sam!
He is sooo adorable. So horribly in love with this girl who he thinks doesn't want him.
And he's so on the outside of everything. He kinda belongs to the whole McCloud gang, but not really and he belonged to the police, but not anymore. And he's not even thinking about his mega-rich family... they seem to hate his life choices too much.
And Sveti, that poor girl. Who's all grown up now and fighting to prevent what happened to her from happening to other people. There's just not any room for love in her future.
And now with all those new clues about her mother's death and the secrets she kept.... She might just need Sam more than she can admit.
We have sooo many sexy and romantic and cute and suspensy moments in this book - it really was the perfect Romantic Suspense!!!
I loved that we got to meet all of the previous couples and their kids again.
I wish someone would make the McClouds into a TV show!!!!
If you loved the early McCloud books, you will SOOOO love Sam & Sveti's story too.
IN FOR THE KILL was an amazingly sexy & suspensy & adorable romantic Thriller!
I can't wait what Shannon will come up with next - I just hope it won't have any psychic or other paranormal elements in it!!! ☺
September 27, 2015
5 HUGE STARS!
Oh man, I love Sam. He was so friggin' awesome. Call me bias but I just love Shannon McKenna's uber alpha heroes and her kickass heroines. I couldn't get enough!
Sveti
We first met her in Extreme Danger when she was 12 years old, abducted by organ traffickers and rescued by the McCloud Crowd.
Sam Petrie
Detective Sam first appeared in Blood and Fire He met Sveti for the first time (she was 19) and BOOM! The guy was a goner.
“You smoke?”
“Uh . . .” Petrie’s eyes shifted. “I, uh, just quit.”
And then they met again in Fatal Strike
“You hate my guts.”
She sniffed. “Certainly not. I do not put so much energy into thinking about you, Petrie.”
And then, BOOM again. Hot and heavy tryst in Bruno's house.
In For the Kill took place about 5 years after their first meeting. Sam and Sveti finally had their own story and I have to say it was worth the wait. Hot and sexy with fast paced action, laced with intrigue and suspense, this book was everything I love. I highly recommend the McClouds & Friends series. All the books are very good reads!
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Oh man, I love Sam. He was so friggin' awesome. Call me bias but I just love Shannon McKenna's uber alpha heroes and her kickass heroines. I couldn't get enough!
Sveti
We first met her in Extreme Danger when she was 12 years old, abducted by organ traffickers and rescued by the McCloud Crowd.
Sam Petrie
Detective Sam first appeared in Blood and Fire He met Sveti for the first time (she was 19) and BOOM! The guy was a goner.
“You smoke?”
“Uh . . .” Petrie’s eyes shifted. “I, uh, just quit.”
And then they met again in Fatal Strike
“You hate my guts.”
She sniffed. “Certainly not. I do not put so much energy into thinking about you, Petrie.”
And then, BOOM again. Hot and heavy tryst in Bruno's house.
In For the Kill took place about 5 years after their first meeting. Sam and Sveti finally had their own story and I have to say it was worth the wait. Hot and sexy with fast paced action, laced with intrigue and suspense, this book was everything I love. I highly recommend the McClouds & Friends series. All the books are very good reads!
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
August 28, 2015
I really wanted to love this one as much as the others in this series, but I had a real hard time with the heroine Sveti, and her TSTL behavior. I'm not going to go into specifics, but when common sense gets thrown out the window, I can't feel a whole lot of sympathy when shit hits the fan.
The saving grace was the hero, Sam. Such an awesome guy. I loved his heroism, his romanticism, and his super awesome sexy self. And speaking of sexy stuff, woohoohoo! The sex was hotty hot hot!
Oh, and I loved the ending. So romantic (sigh).
All in all, it was an ok read, but I'm hoping the next one has a better heroine.
The saving grace was the hero, Sam. Such an awesome guy. I loved his heroism, his romanticism, and his super awesome sexy self. And speaking of sexy stuff, woohoohoo! The sex was hotty hot hot!
Oh, and I loved the ending. So romantic (sigh).
All in all, it was an ok read, but I'm hoping the next one has a better heroine.
January 27, 2015
This was my favorite Shannon McKenna book in YEARS!! I loved, loved, loved Sam and Sveti. I've been looking forward to her story for AGES! And nothing about it disappointed!! In For the Kill hearkened back to the early Shannon McKenna stories I fell in love with. It was much more of a true romantic suspense without the sci-fi elements. So, so good!
Some have indicated that they didn't think Sveti was strong enough and/or questioned some of her decisions. Not me. After everything Sveti had been through in her life, she could do no wrong in this book. Not in my eyes! And, Sam was an ALPHA all. the. way! He was perfect book boyfriend material <3
This book was a wonderful way to say goodbye to the series. Though, I really, REALLY want Rachel and Misha's story!! Please, Shannon?!?! The last scene, with the two of them, Rachel and Misha, gazing out the window and fully comprehending - at the tender age of 14, no less - the gift they had been given, being a part of this extended family? It was so beautiful. It truly brought everything full circle. Perfection!!
If you've followed this series from the beginning as I have, you MUST read this final book!! You'll regret it if you don't :)
Some have indicated that they didn't think Sveti was strong enough and/or questioned some of her decisions. Not me. After everything Sveti had been through in her life, she could do no wrong in this book. Not in my eyes! And, Sam was an ALPHA all. the. way! He was perfect book boyfriend material <3
This book was a wonderful way to say goodbye to the series. Though, I really, REALLY want Rachel and Misha's story!! Please, Shannon?!?! The last scene, with the two of them, Rachel and Misha, gazing out the window and fully comprehending - at the tender age of 14, no less - the gift they had been given, being a part of this extended family? It was so beautiful. It truly brought everything full circle. Perfection!!
If you've followed this series from the beginning as I have, you MUST read this final book!! You'll regret it if you don't :)
January 6, 2015
Posted on Les Romantiques - Le forum du site
Reviewed by Rinou
Review Copy from the Publisher
In For The Kill is the 11th volume in the McCloud and Friends series, wrongly titled McCloud brothers in French as we ran out of available brothers several volumes ago. Shannon McKenna has announced that she was ending the series with In For The Kill, and I regret to say that for me the final firework wasn’t there.
First I must point out that the author abandoned the “psychic powers” side present in the last novels. Secondly I recommend against reading this novel if you haven’t read at least the first four or five, because there are many references to the main characters’ past and the presence of many secondary characters and that would left out someone who would discover the series with this novel.
Let’s talk about my impressions. Firstly I didn’t like Sveti, the heroine. I found her to be too much hard with everyone, especially the hero, and her habit of always thinking she can’t open up to the others because of what happened to her when she was young ended up annoying me. What’s more, in spite of her attraction for Sam (and supposedly her love but I didn’t feel it), I found her almost aggressive and mean with him. And last but not least, she’s stubborn, and several times she puts herself in danger by not listening. TSTL.
I liked Sam more. He’s been in love with Sveti for years, and he’s hurt because she’s always rejecting him. I liked that he doesn’t hesitate to say again and again what he’s feeling, even if he knows she’s going to reject him once more. But as a result, by dint of frustration, he too becomes a little aggressive toward her, and I didn’t like it. Beside he’s a typical McKenna’s hero, perhaps a little less alpha than the previous ones, but as super strong and super determined.
I thought that their couple didn’t work. They spend their time arguing, generally because Sam tries to get Sveti to understand he’ll do anything for her, and she that she isn’t worth it, then they make up in bed with sex scenes of course numerous but in which emerge very little tenderness in the middle of some animosity. Even their big final reconciliation scene seemed lukewarm to me.
I liked seeing the previous couples, but there again I had to face a lot of aggressiveness towards Sam from some of them, and I must say I didn’t really understand why. That seemed quite disproportionate for a simple mistrust for the man hanging around the group’s protégé, especially as Sam has been part of the inner circle for a long time. The suspense side is well done, with villains perhaps a little less twisted than what the author got us used to in the previous volumes, but in different kinds.
So this is a grand finale which for me is more a damp squib, and so I finish this series, otherwise excellent, with an aftertaste of frustration. However I still recommend to those who don’t know it to read at least the first volumes.
Reviewed by Rinou
Review Copy from the Publisher
In For The Kill is the 11th volume in the McCloud and Friends series, wrongly titled McCloud brothers in French as we ran out of available brothers several volumes ago. Shannon McKenna has announced that she was ending the series with In For The Kill, and I regret to say that for me the final firework wasn’t there.
First I must point out that the author abandoned the “psychic powers” side present in the last novels. Secondly I recommend against reading this novel if you haven’t read at least the first four or five, because there are many references to the main characters’ past and the presence of many secondary characters and that would left out someone who would discover the series with this novel.
Let’s talk about my impressions. Firstly I didn’t like Sveti, the heroine. I found her to be too much hard with everyone, especially the hero, and her habit of always thinking she can’t open up to the others because of what happened to her when she was young ended up annoying me. What’s more, in spite of her attraction for Sam (and supposedly her love but I didn’t feel it), I found her almost aggressive and mean with him. And last but not least, she’s stubborn, and several times she puts herself in danger by not listening. TSTL.
I liked Sam more. He’s been in love with Sveti for years, and he’s hurt because she’s always rejecting him. I liked that he doesn’t hesitate to say again and again what he’s feeling, even if he knows she’s going to reject him once more. But as a result, by dint of frustration, he too becomes a little aggressive toward her, and I didn’t like it. Beside he’s a typical McKenna’s hero, perhaps a little less alpha than the previous ones, but as super strong and super determined.
I thought that their couple didn’t work. They spend their time arguing, generally because Sam tries to get Sveti to understand he’ll do anything for her, and she that she isn’t worth it, then they make up in bed with sex scenes of course numerous but in which emerge very little tenderness in the middle of some animosity. Even their big final reconciliation scene seemed lukewarm to me.
I liked seeing the previous couples, but there again I had to face a lot of aggressiveness towards Sam from some of them, and I must say I didn’t really understand why. That seemed quite disproportionate for a simple mistrust for the man hanging around the group’s protégé, especially as Sam has been part of the inner circle for a long time. The suspense side is well done, with villains perhaps a little less twisted than what the author got us used to in the previous volumes, but in different kinds.
So this is a grand finale which for me is more a damp squib, and so I finish this series, otherwise excellent, with an aftertaste of frustration. However I still recommend to those who don’t know it to read at least the first volumes.
January 27, 2015
I love Shannon McKenna and absolutely love every single books in this series. But I confess I am a little on the fence about this book. Maybe I look at Sveti and think "kid", memorable and courageous but still a kid whom I met her back in "Extreme Danger". Subsequent books may show Sveti as an grown woman but it's not working. So when I heard Ms. McKenna planed to write her story, I proceed with caution.
However, I requested this book as soon as it appeared in NetGalley because frankly I cannot resist a Shannon McKenna book. And I'm not disappoint especially this book is nothing like I imagine it's going to be.
The romance works perfectly because Sam, the hero do not think of Sveti as a kid. The age differences has been mentioned but not emphasize and certainly not the problem in their complicated relationship. I overcome the feeling of perceiving Sveti as a kid when I saw her through Sam's eyes. He DOES NOT look at her as a child and does not treat as a child. So we still get a certified Shannon McKenna HOT, HOT, and very HOT romance.
I also like the way Sam pursuit Sveti. Nothing better than an obsessive tall, dark, and handsom guy who does everything to get you. Sam is that and much more. I love his attitude, his directness, and the way he does not give up on their relationship. He reminds me of Sean McCloud, which is my all-time favorite Shannon McKenna's hero. (But after I reread "Edge of Midnight", I notice the different so it must be the way Sam make me feel. I like him that much.)
Somehow I heard that this would be the last book in the series. If it's true, it's a very sad day because I love this world. So every time I pick up new book in the series, I learn more about my favorite characters, which are almost couples.
Anyhow, for people who never read Ms. McKenna before, this book is also great place to start. There may be some back story (from previous books) but I do not think it's too much to create confusion. You can read without any concern for the previous books.
In conclusion, this book is not the best Shannon McKenna I've ever read but quite close. But consider how high I place this author on my favorite books of all-time list, it is a high praise. I give the book 5 stars because when I finished reading this book, I went back and reread every books in this series (beginning with Behind Close Door). It took me 2 weeks of continuing rereading. The thing I've never done in a long time.
However, I requested this book as soon as it appeared in NetGalley because frankly I cannot resist a Shannon McKenna book. And I'm not disappoint especially this book is nothing like I imagine it's going to be.
The romance works perfectly because Sam, the hero do not think of Sveti as a kid. The age differences has been mentioned but not emphasize and certainly not the problem in their complicated relationship. I overcome the feeling of perceiving Sveti as a kid when I saw her through Sam's eyes. He DOES NOT look at her as a child and does not treat as a child. So we still get a certified Shannon McKenna HOT, HOT, and very HOT romance.
I also like the way Sam pursuit Sveti. Nothing better than an obsessive tall, dark, and handsom guy who does everything to get you. Sam is that and much more. I love his attitude, his directness, and the way he does not give up on their relationship. He reminds me of Sean McCloud, which is my all-time favorite Shannon McKenna's hero. (But after I reread "Edge of Midnight", I notice the different so it must be the way Sam make me feel. I like him that much.)
Somehow I heard that this would be the last book in the series. If it's true, it's a very sad day because I love this world. So every time I pick up new book in the series, I learn more about my favorite characters, which are almost couples.
Anyhow, for people who never read Ms. McKenna before, this book is also great place to start. There may be some back story (from previous books) but I do not think it's too much to create confusion. You can read without any concern for the previous books.
In conclusion, this book is not the best Shannon McKenna I've ever read but quite close. But consider how high I place this author on my favorite books of all-time list, it is a high praise. I give the book 5 stars because when I finished reading this book, I went back and reread every books in this series (beginning with Behind Close Door). It took me 2 weeks of continuing rereading. The thing I've never done in a long time.
October 29, 2014
This Series is like a super sonic rollercoaster with each book being another more exciting, heart wrenching, nerve racking hair pin turn!! Every character is their own individual character with a personality uniquely theirs...of course they are all sexy, tough and drop dead gorgeous but that's what we want right?!!! Rachel and Sveti's story has been the most heart wrenching for me from the very beginning and I have been on pins and needles waiting for Shannon to write this one...ever since Svetlana's first appearance in the series (Extreme Danger book 5 I believe) and now I get to look forward to Rachel growing into a young lady and getting her "Happy Ever After"...More pins and needles for me but I know it will be worth the wait because they all are!!! Shannon McKenna is an extraordinary author and there will ALWAYS be a special place on my bookshelf for her books!! <3
August 4, 2015
Copy provided by NetGalley for Honest Review
Honestly it's so hard to try and formulate a review when I'm so disappointed in the book but mainly Sveti. Aside from Miles, no ones story intrigued me more than Sveti's. She's been around since Tam saved her that within the McCloud series we get to see her grow and mature into someone who no one would ever guess had the past she did.
While expecting Sveti to be hardened or even a bad-ass, I don't know why I wasted my time. After the life she had all I wanted for her was HEA, but seeing her in action I was saddened by how much I disliked her in her own story.
The story and romance was typical of a Shannon McKenna read and I enjoyed it. It was Sveti that was the disappointment. She was basically raised by Tam, the baddest bitch ever and yet Sveti acted like none of her hardcoreness rubbed off on her. Too bad. Fans of the series should continue on but don't expect too much and you won't be as disappointed.
____________________
O.M.G. ~~~~~ It's Sveti's story ~~~ I need this more than I did Miles'!!!
Honestly it's so hard to try and formulate a review when I'm so disappointed in the book but mainly Sveti. Aside from Miles, no ones story intrigued me more than Sveti's. She's been around since Tam saved her that within the McCloud series we get to see her grow and mature into someone who no one would ever guess had the past she did.
While expecting Sveti to be hardened or even a bad-ass, I don't know why I wasted my time. After the life she had all I wanted for her was HEA, but seeing her in action I was saddened by how much I disliked her in her own story.
The story and romance was typical of a Shannon McKenna read and I enjoyed it. It was Sveti that was the disappointment. She was basically raised by Tam, the baddest bitch ever and yet Sveti acted like none of her hardcoreness rubbed off on her. Too bad. Fans of the series should continue on but don't expect too much and you won't be as disappointed.
____________________
O.M.G. ~~~~~ It's Sveti's story ~~~ I need this more than I did Miles'!!!
March 8, 2016
I took one star off bc the h was an ice queen and a bit of a b*%@h. Also, didn't like the h having her breasts exposed during the action scene at the end. This is the third book by this author where the h was running around with her breasts bare.
I LOVED the H!!!! Sam was extremely obsessed with the h. He was super possessive, protective, and jealous. He had the best lines that made me swoon. The sex scenes were so HOT!!! I have read every book by this author and am her super fan but Sam is the best H she has ever written.
I LOVED the H!!!! Sam was extremely obsessed with the h. He was super possessive, protective, and jealous. He had the best lines that made me swoon. The sex scenes were so HOT!!! I have read every book by this author and am her super fan but Sam is the best H she has ever written.
April 3, 2020
In for the Kill
4 Stars
Series note This is the 11th and final installment. The book focuses on Sveti Adrova and Sam Petrie, whose romance has been brewing for a while. Much of their backstory is outlined in previous books, and as such, it is recommended that the series be read in order.
McKenna's series ends on a high note with Sveti and Sam's story. Both the plot and the romance are reminiscent of the early books in the series before they became bogged down with strange psychic abilities, implausible situations, and convoluted storylines.
Sveti and Sam have incredible chemistry and their sparks fly with every interaction whether physical or verbal. On the surface, Sam is laid back and amenable, but when it comes to Sveti all bets are off. Sveti is strong and resilient (not surprising given her past), but she holds back a piece of herself out of fear of losing the man she loves. This leads to some annoying and TSTL moments on her part and there are times when her attitude toward Sam is harsh and cruel. Thankfully she comes to her senses.
The plot is fairly straightforward as clues regarding the death of Sveti's mother emerge, and she becomes the target of some truly evil villains. There are some excellent actions scenes and an exciting climax and resolution.
Overall, McClouds and Friends ends with a bang, and I look forward to reading McKenna's next series.
4 Stars
Series note This is the 11th and final installment. The book focuses on Sveti Adrova and Sam Petrie, whose romance has been brewing for a while. Much of their backstory is outlined in previous books, and as such, it is recommended that the series be read in order.
McKenna's series ends on a high note with Sveti and Sam's story. Both the plot and the romance are reminiscent of the early books in the series before they became bogged down with strange psychic abilities, implausible situations, and convoluted storylines.
Sveti and Sam have incredible chemistry and their sparks fly with every interaction whether physical or verbal. On the surface, Sam is laid back and amenable, but when it comes to Sveti all bets are off. Sveti is strong and resilient (not surprising given her past), but she holds back a piece of herself out of fear of losing the man she loves. This leads to some annoying and TSTL moments on her part and there are times when her attitude toward Sam is harsh and cruel. Thankfully she comes to her senses.
The plot is fairly straightforward as clues regarding the death of Sveti's mother emerge, and she becomes the target of some truly evil villains. There are some excellent actions scenes and an exciting climax and resolution.
Overall, McClouds and Friends ends with a bang, and I look forward to reading McKenna's next series.
January 27, 2015
Launch Day for this AMAZING book people...Love, love, love
In For the Kill is the 11th book in the McClouds & Friends series. I cannot tell you how long I have waiting for Sam and Sveti’s book…definitely since Tamar’s book when it became apparent that Sam’s interest was more than just as a protective officer. That scene in the park with the kids and Sam was Sveti’s bodyguard was an amazing foreshadowing of future events.
Let me give you a background on the McClouds and their friends…They are bad-ass, uber-alpha protective ex-cop/ex-military/current-vigilantes who know how to fight dirty, love fiercely and copulate copiously especially in the face of death. While Davy McCloud is my all-time favourite, Sam Petrie has been a slow burning lust for both me and Sveti! Speaking of Sveti, she is complex, vulnerable and yet so fearsome it is not even real. Tam is and will always be my girl-crush, but as Tam’s “adoptive” daughter, Sveti has many of the same characteristics. She holds herself back, not out of rudeness (which it may appear on the surface if you haven’t read previous books), but out of self-preservation. In that way, she very much reminded me of Tam and boy did I enjoy Sam breaking down her barriers. One criticism would be that while Tam was truly that fierce, that deadly, Sveti took stupid risks and made bad choices, which Tam would never do…Tam is cold, calculating and cunning…she is amazing! Thankfully, every time Sveti ran, Sam pursued…sometimes not letting her know that he was at her six…but he was there.
The hunger these two had for each other was palpable and I believe was the underpinning of much of the interplay between the two. I do not give out spoilers, but anyone who reads Shannon McKenna knows that she writes hot, steamy, action packed romantic suspense and this latest book delivers…over and over and over! I have read reviews of other books that actually complain about Ms. McKenna’s characters constant horizontal action while praising her suspenseful vertical action. I personally loved the moments with Sam and Sveti getting sweaty! Sam used Sveti’s sexual need for him as a device to get into her life, into her heart and own her soul. The amazing part was when Sveti realized that since “that kiss”…she had owned Sam’s soul! Love!!!
I would be remiss if I did not mention…the Vor. The enemies are truly evil in this series. The fact that the back story revolves around power, mafia, human trafficking only gives the reader a deeper appreciation for the fullness and depravity within which the villains’ exist. The desperation Sveti feels in her need to eradicate the world of one more slaver is only matched by the reader cheering her on in her crusade. If you have not read this series…I cannot understand why??? Start with Seth and keep on reading…Davy and Margot are hawt…almost as hot as Tam and Nick…Enjoy!
In For the Kill is the 11th book in the McClouds & Friends series. I cannot tell you how long I have waiting for Sam and Sveti’s book…definitely since Tamar’s book when it became apparent that Sam’s interest was more than just as a protective officer. That scene in the park with the kids and Sam was Sveti’s bodyguard was an amazing foreshadowing of future events.
Let me give you a background on the McClouds and their friends…They are bad-ass, uber-alpha protective ex-cop/ex-military/current-vigilantes who know how to fight dirty, love fiercely and copulate copiously especially in the face of death. While Davy McCloud is my all-time favourite, Sam Petrie has been a slow burning lust for both me and Sveti! Speaking of Sveti, she is complex, vulnerable and yet so fearsome it is not even real. Tam is and will always be my girl-crush, but as Tam’s “adoptive” daughter, Sveti has many of the same characteristics. She holds herself back, not out of rudeness (which it may appear on the surface if you haven’t read previous books), but out of self-preservation. In that way, she very much reminded me of Tam and boy did I enjoy Sam breaking down her barriers. One criticism would be that while Tam was truly that fierce, that deadly, Sveti took stupid risks and made bad choices, which Tam would never do…Tam is cold, calculating and cunning…she is amazing! Thankfully, every time Sveti ran, Sam pursued…sometimes not letting her know that he was at her six…but he was there.
The hunger these two had for each other was palpable and I believe was the underpinning of much of the interplay between the two. I do not give out spoilers, but anyone who reads Shannon McKenna knows that she writes hot, steamy, action packed romantic suspense and this latest book delivers…over and over and over! I have read reviews of other books that actually complain about Ms. McKenna’s characters constant horizontal action while praising her suspenseful vertical action. I personally loved the moments with Sam and Sveti getting sweaty! Sam used Sveti’s sexual need for him as a device to get into her life, into her heart and own her soul. The amazing part was when Sveti realized that since “that kiss”…she had owned Sam’s soul! Love!!!
I would be remiss if I did not mention…the Vor. The enemies are truly evil in this series. The fact that the back story revolves around power, mafia, human trafficking only gives the reader a deeper appreciation for the fullness and depravity within which the villains’ exist. The desperation Sveti feels in her need to eradicate the world of one more slaver is only matched by the reader cheering her on in her crusade. If you have not read this series…I cannot understand why??? Start with Seth and keep on reading…Davy and Margot are hawt…almost as hot as Tam and Nick…Enjoy!
December 27, 2014
Probably more of a 3.5* to be honest.
As a dedicated reader who has followed this clan of characters from the very crazy beginning until now I can say that while I truly did enjoy this title I'm just the tiniest bit let down.
I had a very difficult time getting into the story and readers should be warned that this is definitely not a stand alone. If someone who has read every book had a hard time remembering what was happening at the beginning then a new reader will be completely lost. The whole cast is thrown at you with dizzying speed and it took a little while for me to get my groove going.
Sam Petrie is a wonderful hero. A former cop, scion of a wealthy family and completely without direction in his life at the moment, he is a throwback to the obsessed, stalkerish, psycho heroes that McKenna started us off with (hello McCloud boys!). He is completely over the edge in his attraction to the heroine and we are along for the entire warped ride. Fun!
Svetlana Ardova is a brash, young woman whose mission in life is to shut down human trafficking, no matter what sacrifices it demands from her. As a former victim of trafficking herself, Sveti has been adopted into and absolutely beloved by the entire loosely knit McCloud family and friends. As a result, there is no doubt that she is more than a bit foolishly brave and spoiled.
When Sveti and Sam are thrown together due to the dangers of her crusade, their mutual attraction becomes too difficult to deny. Sparks fly, tempers flare, wills are tested and who knows if either will make it out the other side intact.
I have to say, I really didn't like Sveti.
Sadly, she was, for me, the type of woman I despise most in a suspense book. Spoiled, selfish and stupid.
There is no doubt that she is brave and has the courage of her convictions, but I found her actions and her dismissal of Sam and his knowledge and skills to be very emasculating and annoying.
I was really rooting for Sam to turn her over his knee and give her the wailing she so richly deserved. Too bad it never happened.
For me, the real star of this entire book was Misha, the tormented son of a Russian criminal. The seeds are planted here for him to be a truly over the top, force of nature, alpha. Indeed, seeing him coolly face down Sam during a tense moment was breathtaking and all I can do is hope and pray that McKenna knows this and will write a book featuring him. He certainly wouldn't let a Sveti-type character run all over him! Judging by the scene at the very end of the book we all know who would be his perfect match.
As a dedicated reader who has followed this clan of characters from the very crazy beginning until now I can say that while I truly did enjoy this title I'm just the tiniest bit let down.
I had a very difficult time getting into the story and readers should be warned that this is definitely not a stand alone. If someone who has read every book had a hard time remembering what was happening at the beginning then a new reader will be completely lost. The whole cast is thrown at you with dizzying speed and it took a little while for me to get my groove going.
Sam Petrie is a wonderful hero. A former cop, scion of a wealthy family and completely without direction in his life at the moment, he is a throwback to the obsessed, stalkerish, psycho heroes that McKenna started us off with (hello McCloud boys!). He is completely over the edge in his attraction to the heroine and we are along for the entire warped ride. Fun!
Svetlana Ardova is a brash, young woman whose mission in life is to shut down human trafficking, no matter what sacrifices it demands from her. As a former victim of trafficking herself, Sveti has been adopted into and absolutely beloved by the entire loosely knit McCloud family and friends. As a result, there is no doubt that she is more than a bit foolishly brave and spoiled.
When Sveti and Sam are thrown together due to the dangers of her crusade, their mutual attraction becomes too difficult to deny. Sparks fly, tempers flare, wills are tested and who knows if either will make it out the other side intact.
I have to say, I really didn't like Sveti.
Sadly, she was, for me, the type of woman I despise most in a suspense book. Spoiled, selfish and stupid.
There is no doubt that she is brave and has the courage of her convictions, but I found her actions and her dismissal of Sam and his knowledge and skills to be very emasculating and annoying.
I was really rooting for Sam to turn her over his knee and give her the wailing she so richly deserved. Too bad it never happened.
For me, the real star of this entire book was Misha, the tormented son of a Russian criminal. The seeds are planted here for him to be a truly over the top, force of nature, alpha. Indeed, seeing him coolly face down Sam during a tense moment was breathtaking and all I can do is hope and pray that McKenna knows this and will write a book featuring him. He certainly wouldn't let a Sveti-type character run all over him! Judging by the scene at the very end of the book we all know who would be his perfect match.
January 27, 2015
3.5 Stars
In For the Kill by Shannon McKenna is the 11th book in the McClouds & Friends series. This one focuses on Sam and Svetlana (Sveti). It is a very intense story, from the characters, to the plot, to the emotion. The romance is tumultuous and volatile, while the plot is dark, discomforting and dangerous.
From the get go, Sveti and Sam are at odds, but the chemistry is burning hot and the lure has finally become too great, for both of them. Their romance is rocky, full of arguments and sex. Sam goes from one extreme to the other and often, heartfelt one moment, domineering and abrupt the next. For Sveti it must have been like being on a raft at sea, floating peacefully one second, being tossed by rough waves the next. Sam spent the book trying to win her heart but also trying to protect her. Yet, when she does give him what he has been waiting so long for, he doesn’t take her seriously. I wanted to smack him. He should have known by then that she wouldn’t say something she didn’t mean, just to appease him.
I liked Sveti. She’s a tough character that has lived through some very difficult times. It has made her understandably leery of being vulnerable. Then Sam comes along and pretty much barrels through her defenses. She didn’t make it easy for him though and I liked that about her. It wouldn’t have fit her character to have it go any other way. She stood up to Sam and didn’t give into his demands. She stuck to her cause and didn’t let anything sway her. I didn’t always agree with her actions, but I admired her tenacity. She was a heroine I could root for.
I’m not sure how I felt about Sam. I liked him for the most part, but at times I thought he was a bit too much. He was so volatile and seemed to jump from one emotion to the next. He pretty much went through the whole spectrum of emotions in this book. He let it all hang out, raw and untempered. I say, more power to him and all that but the mood swings got frustrating.
Overall, In For the Kill it quite well done. The plot was interesting and held my attention. The characters were vividly crafted. It was easy to imagine the danger, the depravity and the anger. There is sex, romance and action all woven together in a tale that sucks you in and holds you captive.
I would recommend In For the Kill to fans of the McCloud & Friends series.
*ARC (Advanced Review Copy) received from Kensington Books, via NetGalley.
In For the Kill by Shannon McKenna is the 11th book in the McClouds & Friends series. This one focuses on Sam and Svetlana (Sveti). It is a very intense story, from the characters, to the plot, to the emotion. The romance is tumultuous and volatile, while the plot is dark, discomforting and dangerous.
From the get go, Sveti and Sam are at odds, but the chemistry is burning hot and the lure has finally become too great, for both of them. Their romance is rocky, full of arguments and sex. Sam goes from one extreme to the other and often, heartfelt one moment, domineering and abrupt the next. For Sveti it must have been like being on a raft at sea, floating peacefully one second, being tossed by rough waves the next. Sam spent the book trying to win her heart but also trying to protect her. Yet, when she does give him what he has been waiting so long for, he doesn’t take her seriously. I wanted to smack him. He should have known by then that she wouldn’t say something she didn’t mean, just to appease him.
I liked Sveti. She’s a tough character that has lived through some very difficult times. It has made her understandably leery of being vulnerable. Then Sam comes along and pretty much barrels through her defenses. She didn’t make it easy for him though and I liked that about her. It wouldn’t have fit her character to have it go any other way. She stood up to Sam and didn’t give into his demands. She stuck to her cause and didn’t let anything sway her. I didn’t always agree with her actions, but I admired her tenacity. She was a heroine I could root for.
I’m not sure how I felt about Sam. I liked him for the most part, but at times I thought he was a bit too much. He was so volatile and seemed to jump from one emotion to the next. He pretty much went through the whole spectrum of emotions in this book. He let it all hang out, raw and untempered. I say, more power to him and all that but the mood swings got frustrating.
Overall, In For the Kill it quite well done. The plot was interesting and held my attention. The characters were vividly crafted. It was easy to imagine the danger, the depravity and the anger. There is sex, romance and action all woven together in a tale that sucks you in and holds you captive.
I would recommend In For the Kill to fans of the McCloud & Friends series.
*ARC (Advanced Review Copy) received from Kensington Books, via NetGalley.
January 27, 2015
I've done it again. I have managed to come in at the very end of what is a wildly popular series and fallen for an author that everyone else seems to already know. Although IN FOR THE KILL is the 11th and final book in the McClouds & Friends series, I read it as a stand alone. That being said, I was okay with not knowing the detailed back stories of the secondary characters that made plenty of appearances in this story. If you are the type of reader who needs to know the stories behind all of the characters you won't really want to start with this one. What I do know is that now I have to go back and start from the beginning at some point and read the first books because this one sucked me in and didn't let me go until the very last scene.
IN FOR THE KILL is romantic suspense done right. You won't figure out everything that's going on right off the bat. There are plenty of twists and turns in the story. Sam is a wonderful hero. Strong, determined, and patient when it comes to Sveti; which is a bonus since she is a bit impulsive in her desire to do what's right. The criminals in this one are really bad and she sometimes makes decisions that are not in the least bit safe.
There's lot of steaminess, danger, and plot twists to keep you entertained in IN FOR THE KILL and I look forward to going back and getting lost in the world of McClouds and Friends since I'm so late to the party!
You can find more from me at Monlatable Book Reviews
http://www.monlatablereviews.com/
IN FOR THE KILL is romantic suspense done right. You won't figure out everything that's going on right off the bat. There are plenty of twists and turns in the story. Sam is a wonderful hero. Strong, determined, and patient when it comes to Sveti; which is a bonus since she is a bit impulsive in her desire to do what's right. The criminals in this one are really bad and she sometimes makes decisions that are not in the least bit safe.
There's lot of steaminess, danger, and plot twists to keep you entertained in IN FOR THE KILL and I look forward to going back and getting lost in the world of McClouds and Friends since I'm so late to the party!
You can find more from me at Monlatable Book Reviews
http://www.monlatablereviews.com/
January 7, 2015
Wow! Just when you think Shannon McKenna can't possibly top herself and write a better novel than the last one she wrote, she somehow manages to do just that!
I've been addicted to this series since the first McCloud novel, and her fans, myself included, have been waiting a very long time for Sveti's story, wondering how this poor, sweet, tortured, loving soul we first met at age 12, could possibly be placed in harm's way yet again. Well Sveti isnt't 12 anymore, and no one knows that better than Sam, a serious dominating Alpha male, with a soft side just for Sveti. Sam's been on the periphery for awhile, yet we finally get into this head and his background in this novel--we learn what makes him tick, and we discover the lengths to which he'll go to keep Sveti safe from harm.
It's a great read, one of Ms. McKenna's best, and if you've not already become hooked on this series, what on earth are you waiting for? Erotic romantic suspense simply doesn't get any better than this!
I've been addicted to this series since the first McCloud novel, and her fans, myself included, have been waiting a very long time for Sveti's story, wondering how this poor, sweet, tortured, loving soul we first met at age 12, could possibly be placed in harm's way yet again. Well Sveti isnt't 12 anymore, and no one knows that better than Sam, a serious dominating Alpha male, with a soft side just for Sveti. Sam's been on the periphery for awhile, yet we finally get into this head and his background in this novel--we learn what makes him tick, and we discover the lengths to which he'll go to keep Sveti safe from harm.
It's a great read, one of Ms. McKenna's best, and if you've not already become hooked on this series, what on earth are you waiting for? Erotic romantic suspense simply doesn't get any better than this!
February 28, 2023
Sveti goes to Rome for an awards ceremony and Sam goes to protect her. Sam has been in love with her since the moment her met her. He scares her because she doesn't understand the feelings he brings forth. Now she is putting the pieces together that her mother left her. Loved this story...plenty of action, intrigue, and sex.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 24, 2015
ARC Received courtesy of Goodreads.com giveaway
This book is so HOT in so many ways! Not only the sexual chemistry between Sveti and Sam, but also the volatile, life-threatening situations they get caught up in. In fact, I would love to go back and read more of the "McCloud Brothers" series. Although I had no problem reading this story and understanding it without having read any of the others. I would highly recommend this series to anyone who loves a great thriller!
This book is so HOT in so many ways! Not only the sexual chemistry between Sveti and Sam, but also the volatile, life-threatening situations they get caught up in. In fact, I would love to go back and read more of the "McCloud Brothers" series. Although I had no problem reading this story and understanding it without having read any of the others. I would highly recommend this series to anyone who loves a great thriller!
January 28, 2016
Note: I received this eARC from the publisher via NetGalley. That had no influence on my review/rating.
June 12, 2017
Time taken to read - 7 hours I think, I read it on the plane home
Pages - 400
Publisher - Kensington
Blurb from Goodreads
The risks ex-cop Sam Petrie has taken have turned his life into a train wreck. So he has nothing to lose by doubling down as the elusive Svetlana Ardova's unwanted bodyguard on a potentially deadly trip to Italy.
Ever since the McClouds rescued Sveti from certain death, her crusade against modern slavery has blazoned a bulls-eye on her chest, but when one of the threats against her almost hits the mark, Sam's protective instincts go into overdrive. Every lethal obstacle and trap they encounter ups the stakes--and the undeniable heat between them.
Now they're spiraling in on a deadly and explosive secret--one that could either redeem them or destroy them . . . and the closer they get, the shorter the fuse . . .
My Review
Sveti Ardova is in the public eye, beautiful and with a horrific past she is the voice for highlighting and campaigning against modern slavery. Her latest appearance has put her in the eyes of some very dangerous people. Sam Petrie has always had a thing for Sveti, finding his own career ruined this is the perfect opportunity to do something meaningful and get closer to Sveti. As the danger rises so does the burning attraction between Sam and Sveti but will they stay alive long enough to do anything about it.
This is apparently book 11 according to Goodreads, I saw it on offer in America and I do like trying new authors so went for it. There is a lot of dark elements to this book, human trafficking and references to previous practices and the danger Sveti herself faced. Children are also within the trafficking so FYI for future readers, it doesn't go into deep details but it is referenced and discussed. For me the book splits into two main parts, the terrorism, violence, death threats and danger with the flip side being relationships and a lot of sex scenes. I am sure one went over the course of three if not more chapters and some of it is explicit so not for the easily offended.
For me, I think the crime and danger aspect was slightly overlooked with a lot of focus on attraction and sex scenes. I am sure this will sit well with many readers but I would have liked much more focus on the meat of the story rather than such lengthy carnal encounters. Again it comes down to person preference and I am sure many readers will love that aspect.
Erotica for sure with elements of crime, thriller, mystery but a huge portion was the relationship and sex scenes. The characters themselves, I did like the male protagonist Sam, good guy with some flaws and quite a background. Sveti, I have to be honest she really frustrated me at times, her choices, her behaviours and considering her past she really made some really bad judgement calls with repercussions not just affecting her. I would read this author again but I don't think I will rush out to buy up the series. I think fans of 50 shades will appreciate this one particularly if they like a bit more danger aspects to the tale, 3/5 for me this time.
Pages - 400
Publisher - Kensington
Blurb from Goodreads
The risks ex-cop Sam Petrie has taken have turned his life into a train wreck. So he has nothing to lose by doubling down as the elusive Svetlana Ardova's unwanted bodyguard on a potentially deadly trip to Italy.
Ever since the McClouds rescued Sveti from certain death, her crusade against modern slavery has blazoned a bulls-eye on her chest, but when one of the threats against her almost hits the mark, Sam's protective instincts go into overdrive. Every lethal obstacle and trap they encounter ups the stakes--and the undeniable heat between them.
Now they're spiraling in on a deadly and explosive secret--one that could either redeem them or destroy them . . . and the closer they get, the shorter the fuse . . .
My Review
Sveti Ardova is in the public eye, beautiful and with a horrific past she is the voice for highlighting and campaigning against modern slavery. Her latest appearance has put her in the eyes of some very dangerous people. Sam Petrie has always had a thing for Sveti, finding his own career ruined this is the perfect opportunity to do something meaningful and get closer to Sveti. As the danger rises so does the burning attraction between Sam and Sveti but will they stay alive long enough to do anything about it.
This is apparently book 11 according to Goodreads, I saw it on offer in America and I do like trying new authors so went for it. There is a lot of dark elements to this book, human trafficking and references to previous practices and the danger Sveti herself faced. Children are also within the trafficking so FYI for future readers, it doesn't go into deep details but it is referenced and discussed. For me the book splits into two main parts, the terrorism, violence, death threats and danger with the flip side being relationships and a lot of sex scenes. I am sure one went over the course of three if not more chapters and some of it is explicit so not for the easily offended.
For me, I think the crime and danger aspect was slightly overlooked with a lot of focus on attraction and sex scenes. I am sure this will sit well with many readers but I would have liked much more focus on the meat of the story rather than such lengthy carnal encounters. Again it comes down to person preference and I am sure many readers will love that aspect.
Erotica for sure with elements of crime, thriller, mystery but a huge portion was the relationship and sex scenes. The characters themselves, I did like the male protagonist Sam, good guy with some flaws and quite a background. Sveti, I have to be honest she really frustrated me at times, her choices, her behaviours and considering her past she really made some really bad judgement calls with repercussions not just affecting her. I would read this author again but I don't think I will rush out to buy up the series. I think fans of 50 shades will appreciate this one particularly if they like a bit more danger aspects to the tale, 3/5 for me this time.
September 19, 2018
excellent book i couldn´t put it down
January 26, 2015
For me Shannon McKenna books are an automatic purchase and i was so excited to be given the opportunity to read this book prior to its release this is my 1st ever ARC review. Nobody does lust filled suspense novels better than Shannon Mckenna your heart races and blood pumps as you read through the story.
So this is the eleventh instalment from Shannon Mckenna in her action packed McCloud Series. However unlike many authors of series with a reoccurring Character list you don’t need to have read the previous 10 books or if you have read the previous 10 books you don’t have to be prepared for a rehash of the previous characters story line as each character is introduced it is a stand alone novel. Like the previous 10 books the eastern European Mafia types have a lot to learn when dealing with the McCloud clan and there friends.
Our Hero and Heroine were both introduced in prior books Sveti our heroine in Extreme Danger and our hero Sam in Blood and fire. Sam and Sveti have a series case of lust going on for each other and this is there story.
Sveti works as a campaigner and voice against human trafficking as a result of her own life experiences prior to meeting up with the McCloud crowd and its the McClouds and there extended family along with her own experience as a child with the traffickers and organ pirates that have helped to make her into the fighter that she is today. However Sveti doesn’t know how to deal with the feelings she has for Sam she tends to fight the lust with arguments. As a result of Sveti’s campaigning against human traffickers she has the opportunity to go to Europe and she decides that she will go for it but before she does she just wants 1 weekend with Sam and then she can escape to Europe before it falls apart.
Sam works as a Homicide Detective or he did do before he was shot again now he is on medical leave and at a loss with what to do with himself other than fuel his serious case of lust for Sveti by stalking her online watching her twitter feeds and the occasional McCloud crowd function. He’s an Alpha male at a loss with what to do with himself then he finds it. Sveti knocks on his door hoping for a weekend of lust filed antics to fuel her trip and new life in Europe.
True to form for this pair though lust turns into an argument and the weekend becomes a 1 night thing with Sam dropping her home in a male snit that she was planning to leave before they could have something real a relationship that goes beyond the argument. However Sam can't just leave her at the door he has to know Sveti is safe as her campaigning has put her in some dangerous situations with the underworld and he's right to do so as our take no prisoners heroine is kidnapped and interrogated. Enter Sam to the rescue he distracts the kidnappers and kills them all or so he thinks but thinking that Sveti is still in danger from the underworld he becomes all for a move to Europe on 1 condition he goes with her. The only problem is that the danger he’s protecting her from isn’t from the American underworld its from Europe and the Mafia. Its not easy for an Alpha male to claim his high octane woman and keep her safe when danger stalks her at every turn.
So this is the eleventh instalment from Shannon Mckenna in her action packed McCloud Series. However unlike many authors of series with a reoccurring Character list you don’t need to have read the previous 10 books or if you have read the previous 10 books you don’t have to be prepared for a rehash of the previous characters story line as each character is introduced it is a stand alone novel. Like the previous 10 books the eastern European Mafia types have a lot to learn when dealing with the McCloud clan and there friends.
Our Hero and Heroine were both introduced in prior books Sveti our heroine in Extreme Danger and our hero Sam in Blood and fire. Sam and Sveti have a series case of lust going on for each other and this is there story.
Sveti works as a campaigner and voice against human trafficking as a result of her own life experiences prior to meeting up with the McCloud crowd and its the McClouds and there extended family along with her own experience as a child with the traffickers and organ pirates that have helped to make her into the fighter that she is today. However Sveti doesn’t know how to deal with the feelings she has for Sam she tends to fight the lust with arguments. As a result of Sveti’s campaigning against human traffickers she has the opportunity to go to Europe and she decides that she will go for it but before she does she just wants 1 weekend with Sam and then she can escape to Europe before it falls apart.
Sam works as a Homicide Detective or he did do before he was shot again now he is on medical leave and at a loss with what to do with himself other than fuel his serious case of lust for Sveti by stalking her online watching her twitter feeds and the occasional McCloud crowd function. He’s an Alpha male at a loss with what to do with himself then he finds it. Sveti knocks on his door hoping for a weekend of lust filed antics to fuel her trip and new life in Europe.
True to form for this pair though lust turns into an argument and the weekend becomes a 1 night thing with Sam dropping her home in a male snit that she was planning to leave before they could have something real a relationship that goes beyond the argument. However Sam can't just leave her at the door he has to know Sveti is safe as her campaigning has put her in some dangerous situations with the underworld and he's right to do so as our take no prisoners heroine is kidnapped and interrogated. Enter Sam to the rescue he distracts the kidnappers and kills them all or so he thinks but thinking that Sveti is still in danger from the underworld he becomes all for a move to Europe on 1 condition he goes with her. The only problem is that the danger he’s protecting her from isn’t from the American underworld its from Europe and the Mafia. Its not easy for an Alpha male to claim his high octane woman and keep her safe when danger stalks her at every turn.
April 6, 2015
Seriously what is up with all the four and five star reviews? Did I read a different book from everyone else? This book was about Sam and Sveti right?
First off, if you don't want to get confused, I would suggest picking up the first book in this series, Behind Closed Doors, and starting from there. Only because in this final installment many, if not every, character from prior books are mentioned, along with spouses and offspring. If you haven't read those previous books, you will get lost along the way.
With that being said, WTF! Sveti has long been a favorite character of mine, I think of many readers, since she was first introduced. We have all been looking forward to her story, but I remember Ms. McKenna saying that she was to young for her own book but maybe one day she would get one. I was overjoyed when I found out that finally sweet Sveti was finally grown enough to get not only her own book, but hers was to be the FINAL book in this amazing series!
Only Sveti wasn't sweet, she was mean as hell. She was mean, nasty and a complete and utter bitch! To say I was shocked and disappointed is a huge understatment! I can't believe that she turned out to be that type of person. Oh she was sweet to her adopted family, she worked hard for her beliefs, but damn she put Sam down like he stole her lunch money and gave it to the school bully! She was so horrible to that man, who only showed how much he loved her by protecting all the damn time...really?
Oh and what the fuck was up with Tam and Nick being so damn nasty with Sam? He did nothing but almost lose his life on more than one occasion to save Sveti and yet they treated him like he was the one who wanted to traffic her organs when they should have been kissing his ass!
Sam needed to grow a pair and tell everyone, Sveti included, to fuck off and kiss his ass! I liked his character, he was loyal, but man he was also a fucking schmuck when it came to Sveti! He became like a little lapdog willing to take whatever scraps she threw his way just for a little attention! Come on man have some more respect for yourself! Where the fuck is your man card! Stuffed in Sveti's purse, along with your balls...that's where!
Then they thought everything would be fixed by having crazy volatile sex, that shit was just crazy and unattractive, especially when she wanted it but then blamed him for it right afterwards! That woman was ridiculous! Always putting herself in unnecessary danger just to prove a point or just to spite him. As far as action and adventure, the book was awesome, villains were horrible and hard to detect as per SM books. No problems there. Sam and Sveti's relationship. ...epic failure! Not one thing about it that I liked! At the end of the day she couldn't even go after him, as always like a dog in fucking heat...he chases after her! What a fucking moron!
My little one star review won't change the hundreds of four and five star reviews but I just had to be honest. I loved this entire series, the previous books I have are all paperback copies as those were before eReaders were popular. Unfortunately, this last book broke my heart, Sveti was just so disappointing.....
First off, if you don't want to get confused, I would suggest picking up the first book in this series, Behind Closed Doors, and starting from there. Only because in this final installment many, if not every, character from prior books are mentioned, along with spouses and offspring. If you haven't read those previous books, you will get lost along the way.
With that being said, WTF! Sveti has long been a favorite character of mine, I think of many readers, since she was first introduced. We have all been looking forward to her story, but I remember Ms. McKenna saying that she was to young for her own book but maybe one day she would get one. I was overjoyed when I found out that finally sweet Sveti was finally grown enough to get not only her own book, but hers was to be the FINAL book in this amazing series!
Only Sveti wasn't sweet, she was mean as hell. She was mean, nasty and a complete and utter bitch! To say I was shocked and disappointed is a huge understatment! I can't believe that she turned out to be that type of person. Oh she was sweet to her adopted family, she worked hard for her beliefs, but damn she put Sam down like he stole her lunch money and gave it to the school bully! She was so horrible to that man, who only showed how much he loved her by protecting all the damn time...really?
Oh and what the fuck was up with Tam and Nick being so damn nasty with Sam? He did nothing but almost lose his life on more than one occasion to save Sveti and yet they treated him like he was the one who wanted to traffic her organs when they should have been kissing his ass!
Sam needed to grow a pair and tell everyone, Sveti included, to fuck off and kiss his ass! I liked his character, he was loyal, but man he was also a fucking schmuck when it came to Sveti! He became like a little lapdog willing to take whatever scraps she threw his way just for a little attention! Come on man have some more respect for yourself! Where the fuck is your man card! Stuffed in Sveti's purse, along with your balls...that's where!
Then they thought everything would be fixed by having crazy volatile sex, that shit was just crazy and unattractive, especially when she wanted it but then blamed him for it right afterwards! That woman was ridiculous! Always putting herself in unnecessary danger just to prove a point or just to spite him. As far as action and adventure, the book was awesome, villains were horrible and hard to detect as per SM books. No problems there. Sam and Sveti's relationship. ...epic failure! Not one thing about it that I liked! At the end of the day she couldn't even go after him, as always like a dog in fucking heat...he chases after her! What a fucking moron!
My little one star review won't change the hundreds of four and five star reviews but I just had to be honest. I loved this entire series, the previous books I have are all paperback copies as those were before eReaders were popular. Unfortunately, this last book broke my heart, Sveti was just so disappointing.....
January 4, 2015
I received an advance reader copy of In For the Kill, and did my level best not to inhale it in one sitting.
If you've ever read Shannon McKenna before, then you know what to expect. If you haven't, here's what you get:
Really evil bad guys, women with brains, heroes that are usually swimming in the deep end of alpha, smokin' hot smexy times that actually evince character development, and sometimes a touch of the woo-woo stuff. (That's highbrow talk for paranormal elements.) There's less of the woo-woo than in some of her books, but In For The Kill still hits every item on the list.
From shannonmckenna.com: "The risks ex-cop Sam Petrie has taken have turned his life into a train wreck. So he has nothing to lose by doubling down as the elusive Svetlana Ardova’s unwanted bodyguard on her ill-advised trip to Italy. Her crusade against modern slavery has blazoned a bullseye on her chest, but when one of the death threats against her almost hits the mark, Sam’s protective instincts go into overdrive. Every lethal obstacle and trap they encounter ups the stakes—and the undeniable heat between them."
I loved this book, but I will go ahead and clarify something that confused me from the start.
At the time of IFTK, Sveti is 24 years old. It's mentioned explicitly around 30% into the book, but without checking the time frame of the previous novels,
I had a hard time working out just exactly how old she was at the beginning. Normally in the course of a romance novel (and certainly in a steamy romantic
suspense like this one), you don't really need to know, but so much of Sveti's bad juju happened during the series. Plus, readers from way back first met her when she was *twelve*. Add that to that Sam's thoughts about her relative youth and the McCloud Crowd's intense protectiveness of Sveti (understandable though it may be), and I was a little confused.
And now, for the accolades, because I loved. this. book.
Sam is every inch the uber-alpha, and I loved him that much more for it. He reminded me strongly of Connor McCloud (from Standing in the Shadows, book two in the series, and one of my all-time favorite books ever), especially given the nature of his attachment to Sveti. His "in your service" speech hit me where I *live*. Well played, McKenna, well played.
And it bears repeating. McKenna writes some really awesomely evil, horrible, terrifying bad guys. Sveti's ghosts are no joke.
I don't want to give away too much, so I'll wrap up by saying that I'm glad Sveti gets fireworks. All the McClouds deserved them, but I'm glad she got them.
If you've ever read Shannon McKenna before, then you know what to expect. If you haven't, here's what you get:
Really evil bad guys, women with brains, heroes that are usually swimming in the deep end of alpha, smokin' hot smexy times that actually evince character development, and sometimes a touch of the woo-woo stuff. (That's highbrow talk for paranormal elements.) There's less of the woo-woo than in some of her books, but In For The Kill still hits every item on the list.
From shannonmckenna.com: "The risks ex-cop Sam Petrie has taken have turned his life into a train wreck. So he has nothing to lose by doubling down as the elusive Svetlana Ardova’s unwanted bodyguard on her ill-advised trip to Italy. Her crusade against modern slavery has blazoned a bullseye on her chest, but when one of the death threats against her almost hits the mark, Sam’s protective instincts go into overdrive. Every lethal obstacle and trap they encounter ups the stakes—and the undeniable heat between them."
I loved this book, but I will go ahead and clarify something that confused me from the start.
At the time of IFTK, Sveti is 24 years old. It's mentioned explicitly around 30% into the book, but without checking the time frame of the previous novels,
I had a hard time working out just exactly how old she was at the beginning. Normally in the course of a romance novel (and certainly in a steamy romantic
suspense like this one), you don't really need to know, but so much of Sveti's bad juju happened during the series. Plus, readers from way back first met her when she was *twelve*. Add that to that Sam's thoughts about her relative youth and the McCloud Crowd's intense protectiveness of Sveti (understandable though it may be), and I was a little confused.
And now, for the accolades, because I loved. this. book.
Sam is every inch the uber-alpha, and I loved him that much more for it. He reminded me strongly of Connor McCloud (from Standing in the Shadows, book two in the series, and one of my all-time favorite books ever), especially given the nature of his attachment to Sveti. His "in your service" speech hit me where I *live*. Well played, McKenna, well played.
And it bears repeating. McKenna writes some really awesomely evil, horrible, terrifying bad guys. Sveti's ghosts are no joke.
I don't want to give away too much, so I'll wrap up by saying that I'm glad Sveti gets fireworks. All the McClouds deserved them, but I'm glad she got them.
February 9, 2015
****A gifted copy was provided by NetGalley for an honest review***
This this is the last book in the McCloud and Friends series .
Remember Sveti ? She was the girl who was rescued after being sold the human traffickers when she was 12 –She was saved in time and she has lived closed to her adopted family –The McClouds- and their friends who became her friends. But she has decided its time for her to go get the people who do evil things and save others like she was saved. In order to do that, she will have to live in Europe for 2 years.
Ex-cop Sam Petrie is on medical leave, doesn’t know what to do with his time and doesn’t want to have anything to do with his family’s money business. So he thinks he can help keep an eye on Sveti but there’s some weird tension between them ever since that night 2 years before. That one night with the hot as sin kiss...
As I started getting into the book, you find out some of the secrets- one which I can slip and say-nope, Sveti doesn’t hate Sam, she is madly in love with him. Two, Sveti’s life is in danger from the Mob –that is all I can say. You have to read this book. The twists and turns that pop up all the way almost to the end are great. I really enjoyed reading this book, even though knowing this is last book in the series.
Sveti and Sam are a great couple together. Sam was one hot Alpha male who want to protect his lady and Sveti is one tenacious lady who wants to finally keep the love in her life. The passion between them was yummy to behold. So sad to finally have to say good-bye to McClouds and Friends.
My rating: 4.2 STARS ****
This this is the last book in the McCloud and Friends series .
Remember Sveti ? She was the girl who was rescued after being sold the human traffickers when she was 12 –She was saved in time and she has lived closed to her adopted family –The McClouds- and their friends who became her friends. But she has decided its time for her to go get the people who do evil things and save others like she was saved. In order to do that, she will have to live in Europe for 2 years.
Ex-cop Sam Petrie is on medical leave, doesn’t know what to do with his time and doesn’t want to have anything to do with his family’s money business. So he thinks he can help keep an eye on Sveti but there’s some weird tension between them ever since that night 2 years before. That one night with the hot as sin kiss...
As I started getting into the book, you find out some of the secrets- one which I can slip and say-nope, Sveti doesn’t hate Sam, she is madly in love with him. Two, Sveti’s life is in danger from the Mob –that is all I can say. You have to read this book. The twists and turns that pop up all the way almost to the end are great. I really enjoyed reading this book, even though knowing this is last book in the series.
Sveti and Sam are a great couple together. Sam was one hot Alpha male who want to protect his lady and Sveti is one tenacious lady who wants to finally keep the love in her life. The passion between them was yummy to behold. So sad to finally have to say good-bye to McClouds and Friends.
My rating: 4.2 STARS ****
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