It's A Shame

Blood and Tears #2

by C.E. Hansen

Grace and Cole were trying to put the pieces of their broken lives back in place, working towards a future together. It seems as though things were just starting to get back to normal. Well, as normal as things could be for the survivors of a twisted serial killer.

What they didn’t know, what neither of them expected, was that their nightmare was just beginning.

They were about to be pulled back into the clutches of a madman…but this time, they weren’t the only potential victims…

Was their love strong enough to get them through the next disaster?
Do they have what it takes to stay together, or is what’s lurking around the corner too much for them both?

Genres: Amazon

297 pages, ebook

First published November 9, 2013

About the author

C.E. Hansen writes mystery thrillers. Her formula of combining suspense and mystery with erotica has proven to have tremendous appeal.

C.E. wrote her first romance novel at age fourteen when she discovered writing about boys and girls was way easier than actually having a relationship of her own. Since that time, her communication skills haven't improved, but she likes to think her writing has. After earning an associates degree in literature from WC, she has worked in a bus company, a law office, and a wine/gourmet food shoppe, but has never abandoned her love of writing.

She's a proud mother of a beautiful daughter who is newly married, and currently lives in New Jersey with her husband, and if she's not working on her latest sexy story, you can find her reading, watching television, or indulging in her unhealthy addiction to chocolate.

C.E. Hansen's debut novel IT'S A CRIME was released May 2013, her follow up novel IT'S A SHAME, was released November 11th, 2014, followed by ACT ACCORDINGLY, EVER, SARAH and WHERE I FOUND MY HEART (a novella). Her newest novel, FAITHLESS, diverges from normal genre as it is a dark crime mystery.

C.E. also writes under the pseudonym C.E. O'Brien for her young adult series, Hero. The first installment UNLIKELY HERO is also available on Amazon.

If you want to read more posts like this one or follow her insane journey to debut authorhood, you can find her here...indulging in her passions...whether they be writing or eating chocolate...

Reviews

[Renee · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you have not read books one, stop and do so now. This one is a continuation so book one doesn't leave with a cliff hanger. Trying to move on Grace and Cole deal with the aftermath. The author give you the conflicts. They get hate mail from people and on the other end of the spectrum they get sympathy. A very interesting side of the couple is brought to light. They are very much in love and lust. There are a lot of pretty graphic scenes so I loved them. I enjoyed the sub character Michelle as Grace's best friend She overcomes a life threatening ordeal faster and becomes stronger. Between her and Grace I was loving their resiliency.

"When will this magic carpet ride stop? Where will we get off? I had a nagging worry this relationship had become too intense. It consumed me, consumed every waking moment"

Cole wants to get custody of his child Kyle and while that was not in Grace's plans, I think she started thinking about a picket fence suburban life. When things are sexy and intimate for them it doesn't really last long.

Grace is in the middle of another ordeal. Then she has no choice but to begin an inner conflict about Cole. She is thinking maybe he isn't innocent he has a temper when it comes to her. Did he take it too far? There is the ex Lauren Buckley, Mother of his child to consider. It is a page turner for sure. Michelle is attracted to Dean a detective who helped Grace. They are adorable together.
"Each day and night I spent with Cole I fell deeper and deeper in love with him."

So along with trying to repair the relations with her Mom, Grace deals with her stepfather Franklin. I get the feeling she was indifferent since she lost her real father. Franklin however a judge, is the go to person when she is in need. It brings a new dynamic that Grace is not used to. She depends on herself and now Cole, so now she needs to depend on Franklin when Cole is in a bad situation.

There are a few parts that are laugh out loud funny. Michelle and Grace are acting like an episode of I Love Lucy when they venture to Brooklyn to try to solve a mystery. That part was hysterical to me.

It is a very erotic, fast paced suspense. I know my suspense and mystery lovers will agree it is a must read!

[L. Maretta · Rating 5 out of 5]

Never have I read a book where the sequel is better than the first... until now! C.E. Hansen comes back with a follow-up novel to It's A Crime with a story so thrilling and hot my heart rate actually went up while reading.
Cole and Grace are trying to move on with their lives, ready to get beyond the horrors of what happened when their whirlwind romance began, but a new sinister force makes its way into their world turning it all up side down yet again. Your heart will absolutely break for this steamy, passionate couple. You just want them to have their HEA and will be enraged to tears at those who will not leave them be! A new sociopath, an ex-girlfriend, mysterious packages, stalker paparazzi...ugh! I wanted to jump into the book and just yell, "Back off these two, I love them!"
Cole is as hot as ever and Grace is just divine, holding it together while her world is falling apart. Michelle is the epitome of the sidekick bff who would rather die than let her girl Grace lose it. These characters have worked their way into this reader's heart and I will be waiting impatiently for Ms. Hansen to continue their story in the third installment.

[Laz the Sailor · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have to say that this second installment was much better than the first. The story held together better, and the secondary characters played a bigger role. And the sex is still very hot.

However... The structure of the mystery, the identity of the final villain, and the sequence of the ending were very disappointing. The bad guy is revealed to be a character introduced in the previous book - and not seen ever in this one! And while I am a fan of variety and creativity, no one should ever end a romance with an ugly scene.

And once again, there was no sex in the last part of the book. Really, after all the hot sweaty acrobatic sex, there is nothing left at the end?

Also, beta readers and other editors should have read the entire book, as the typos and syntax errors became much more obvious in the final third.

So 4 stars because it was better than the first book; I was really enjoying it for the first 75%. But the ending was a fail.

I received this book as a holiday challenge gift.

[Coco.V]

💝 FREE on Amazon today (12/12/2018)!💝

Blurb:
Grace and Cole were trying to put the pieces of their broken lives back in place, working towards a future together. It seems as though things were just starting to get back to normal. Well, as normal as things could be for the survivors of a twisted serial killer.

What they didn’t know, what neither of them expected, was that their nightmare was just beginning.

They were about to be pulled back into the clutches of a madman…but this time, they weren’t the only potential victims…

Was their love strong enough to get them through the next disaster?
Do they have what it takes to stay together, or is what’s lurking around the corner too much for them both?

[L. Duarte · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing read!
It’s a Shame is the follow up novel to It’s a Crime by C.E. Hansen. Listed as a romance novel, it is the second and final book of Blood and Tears series.
While It’s a Crime focus on Grace and her background, It’s a Shame gives the reader lots of Cole. And, oh yeah, lots and lots of swooning moments.
I love this book for many reasons, so let’s break it down:
Well written, steamy and romantic scenes, likable characters, well developed plot, perfect couple chemistry, **sighing moments (by that I mean the author reached deep inside my soul and pulled at my heartstrings. Yes, I cried.), did I say steamy sex scenes? My, oh my! Add suspense and mystery to the mix and voila, perfection.
I like a book that leaves me at the edge of my seat, wondering what will come next. Hansen has the talent to surprise the reader with a balanced approach to romance, suspense, and thriller.
Favorite quote: “Until the dictionary is rewritten, I’m afraid all I have is ‘thank you’.” Which is a perfect way for me to end this review. Thanking the author for writing such a marvelous book. For writing a heroine that is not perfect, but that is honorable, generous, and likable. And for writing a hero that is intense, hot, passionate, and kind.
This is a perfect conclusion to the journey of Grace and Cole. A story that will stay with me for a long time.
Five thrilling stars! A must read.

[Dee · Rating 5 out of 5]

4 1/2 stars rounded up to 5

I really enjoyed CE Hansen's debut story It's A Crime so was really looking forward to reading this book. I enjoyed it so much I read it twice, and that is saying something as I don't tend to do re-reads.

The combination of mystery, suspense and erotica was perfect for me! And let me tell you, CE sure knows how to write some steamy scenes, I had to fan myself to cool off, on more than one occasion!

To fully appreciate this story I strongly recommend you read It's A Crime first.

((Read in October thanks to the author gifting me a copy prior to it being released!))

[Stacey · Rating 4 out of 5]

The mystery surprised me...

I enjoyed the second part to this series as much as the first. I did not work out the mystery until right before it was revealed. As much sexy bits as the first book with lots of dirty talking and actions to back it up. Plenty of drama between and around the main characters to keep the story going.

Another great example of Smut Suspense and both books were a bargain at $0.99 each.

[Ashley Lenderman · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is the continuation of It's A Crime. You must read it first!

With that said, I LOVED this sequel! It had the suspense, angst, mystery and let's not forget romance all over again!

Cole and Grace are moving on from their horrific past and looking forward to their future.
They are living together and are having a place built for them in New York. During this time Grace's feelings for Cole is so intense that it consumes her. She has never been so in love with someone and know so little about him and his past.

"When will this magic carpet ride stop? Where will we get off?"

Graces thoughts are pushed aside as she starts receiving mysterious packages left outside of their apartment.

"My gut finds you breathing
To my dismay
This is a warning
Stay out of the way
The poor girl is suffering
That much is true
Her finger is pointing
Directly at you
When I come across you
Some darkening night
My blade you will feel
As you see your last light
Look around every corner
Look under your bed
I know where you sleep
I'm there in your head
How many flowers
Does a doesn't make
And how much more pain
Do you think she can take?"


Just when Cole and Grace thought it was all over. There was someone still out to get them!
They are faced with new challenges. Cole has a blast from the past with a very unexpected surprise. I must say I didn't see that coming!:)
We get to know all about Coles past in this book.

Cole and Graces relationship and trust is tested. They both go through some crazy stuff and at one time I was so worried that Cole and Grace might call it quits. However, they never gave up on one another! Instead they faced it head on and stood by each other!
You could feel how much these two were so in love and perfect for each other!

"This is the diamond that sparkled and shined through all the darkness and ugliness. This...she is my diamond"


By the end of this book my heart was happy for Cole and Grace.
They are living their happily ever after! They truly deserve it!
I was also happy for Graces best friend Michelle to find love.
Her and Dean were funny! Maybe a book for them!!;)

Overall I really loved this series! It kept me hooked beginning to end! I couldn't get enough of Cole Grayson. He had me swooning over him like a lovesick puppy! LOL

"Grace, 'May you never steal, lie or cheat. But if you have to steal, then steal away my sorrows. If you have to lie, then lie with me all the nights of our life. If you have to cheat, then cheat death because I don't want to live a single day without you,"


I highly recommend this series! Especially if you like suspense with your romance!

4.5 Stars

[Cyndi Becker · Rating 4 out of 5]

C.E. Hansen’s follow-up to It's A Crime (Blood and Tears, #1), It's A Shame (Blood and Tears, #2), is just as sexy and suspenseful as it’s predecessor. It’s A Shame picks up shortly after the craziness that became Grace Preston's life left her both physically and emotionally beat . If I loved the mystery that drove the plot in It’s A Crime, I loved the passion and connection that Grace and Cole developed even more. I looked forward to seeing this deepen and heartily believed that the adversity they faced would only bring them closer. But there is no ONLY about it. It’s A Shame delivers a look at the complexity of Cole Grayson and Grace Preston’s scorching love affair after they are dragged down a dark path and are well into working on healing each other and themselves.

The story continues with this Cole and Grace facing the anxiety of trying to combine their lives ( easy enough, right?) and unfortunately, the remnants of the trauma they experienced at the hands of Grace’s brother. Grace is in a recovery stage, trying to move past being terrorized. She’s left off balance and at times, it’s hard to champion her character. I realised that as I was finding myself less enchanted with Grace, due to her many mood swings, that it was exactly how I should be feeling. The author captures the dreaded sense of panic and anxiety to perfection. She’s frail and yet so hyped up with what she thinks and feels. She’s well into that feeling of insanity that stress brings about. She becomes her own enemy and all too quickly she’s pushing Cole past his limit and alienating herself.

What of Cole? We know he is not a man to be trifled with. We get a bit more of his past and not surprisingly it comes back to haunt him. With Grace’s anxiety leaving her not so clear headed, Cole’s past is well on its way to driving a wedge between them. I found myself continually thinking “well I didn’t see that coming”! But, I never once doubted Cole... okay, well maybe sort of. There were certainly times it was hard to see what was really going on. Yes, that sweet feeling of angst was a huge part of this read

There is a secondary and follow-up mystery aspect in the story with a seemingly unconnected sinister character. There is no way to escape the uneasy feeling that these scenes elicit. I love how the author pulled this into the storyline, because honestly, did we think it would just all be settled?

Again, C.E. Hansen delivered a story that kept me hooked and reading well into the night. The chemistry between Cole is Grace remains crazy hot and together they are crazy good. I highly recommend this series. It’s A Shame is a solid four star read and a MUST if you read It’s A Crime.

[Renee]

I was gifted a copy of this book for an honest review for Stephanie's Book Reports.

It's A Shame is the second book in the Blood and Tears Series by C.E. Hansen . It's A Crime is the first book and I highly recommend that you read it before stating Its A Shame. The same characters are in both books. Though Its A Crime doesn't end in cliffhanger Its A Shame picks up right it leaves off.

I was so happy to be back in Cole and Grace's world. I love them together as a couple. They adore each other, one could not breathe without the other. They have stolen my heart and I'm invested in their happiness after finishing Its A Crime. Cole and Grave are making big plans. They have moved in together and are recovering from all the horrors Jonathan put them through. Michelle is back living across the hall and healing nicely. All is perfect ......or so you think. One night a package arrives and when Grace opens it the contents are enough to send anybody running for the hills. Michelle too gets a package that's just as bad. Who is sending such things and are they coming after Grace and Michelle. Jonathan is locked away for the rest of his life, but it's clear they have a psychopath on their hands.

I loved every second of this book. It's certainly a lot steamier than Its A Crime. The what who and whys are much more intense in my opinion and I literally found myself holding my breath trying to not freak out a time or two. I read really late into the night usually with the lights off but found myself turning them on while reading this book. I know this will sound crazy but it's the best possible kind of freak out when a book can pull that much emotion out of a reader. I was right there in the moment weather with Cole and Grace, Michelle and Grace. Or Cole, Grace, Michelle, and Dean. I'm so glad we got more of Michelle in this book too. She's such a strong fierce independent woman and she is very spunky. I'm actually sad my time with all these characters is over. C.E. Hansen has gained a new fan and I look forward to reading many more books from her. If you love edge of your seat excitement mixed with hot passion that will melt your kindle, this series is one you must read.

[Olfa Bee · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you haven't read It's a Crime first then you need to if you want to enjoy fully this amazing book!

I read It's a Crime and I couldn't wait to read the sequel and I, of course wasn't disappointed ! Mystery, Suspense, Erotica, Love... What more to ask?
I mean, just one look at the cover and you know that the story is going to be good!
I was starting to kind of get tired of the usual romance/erotica stories... She meets a bad boy, she's a virgin, she falls in love... Blah Blah Blah !! This book is going to make you hold your breath because of the suspense but also because of the scorching hot, steamy sex scenes :-D

OH MY! C.E.Hansen knows how to write hot sex, I was about to melt in my bed !
Sequel are most of the time really hard because you liked the first book so you have high expectations for the next one and generally there's not much to add for another story but again Cynthia proved me wrong! She has a beautiful way to write, passion is hiding behind the words.


I just want to add that C.E.HANSEN is not only a very talented author, she's also one of the sweetest lady on earth <3

[Teresa · Rating 5 out of 5]

WOW! I loved this sequel!! The mystery plot in this book was creepy, nerve racking, thrilling…and awesome! Like something out of CSI. Honestly, there were a few scenes that I just knew I shouldn’t read before bedtime. It was just that creepy. So, I put it down only to wake up early to figure out what happened. The writing is amazing and so descriptive that you feel like you are right there in the room. There are numerous twists and turns that I never saw coming. I love when a story keeps me guessing to the very end.

The chemistry between Cole and Grace is still smoking hot and they still love to express it…a lot! I loved her best friend, Michelle. Grace and Michelle have a few moments that had me laughing out loud and some really sweet moments that made me thankful for my friends. I really hope Michelle and Dean get their own story.

What a great rollercoaster ride! I laughed, I cried, I almost passed out from holding my breath from the suspense, lost some sleep, and wanted to reach in and shake some sense into a few characters!! If you’re a mystery lover, this is a must read! Great Job, Mrs. Hansen!!

[Black Butterfly · Rating 4 out of 5]

I READ BK#1 A LONG TIME AGO AND IT HAS TAKEN ME QUITE A WHILE TO GET AROUND TO BK#2. COLE & GRACE ARE BOTH GETTING THE “GASLIGHT” TREATMENT WITH A DERANGED KILLER AFTER THEM TOO. I LIKED THIS BOOK BETTER THAN THE OTHER BOOK IT STILL HAD MORE DESCRIPTIVE INFO THAN I NEEDED TO SEE. IT WAS A FU*KFEST ALL THROUGH THE BOOK WITH ALL THE STUFF GOING ON IN THEIR LIVES I WOULDN’T HAVE EVEN THOUGHT OF SEX LET ALONE BEEN ABLE TO STOP-DROP-N-FU*K EVERYWHERE THEY DID. GRACE IS NOT ONLY A BROKEN WOMAN SHE IS A VERY CHILDISH AND FOOLISH ONE TOO. SHE WAS ANNOYING TO ME I WAS GLAD WHEN SHE STARTED TO SHOW SIGNS OF GROWING UP. A LITTLE TOO LENGHTY MADE THE STORY DRAG ON BUT IT HAS AN HEA AND A SURPRISE KILLER WITH A PERFECT ENDING. OH YES! ;D

[Eye Candy Bookstore · Rating 5 out of 5]

This 2 book series is was amazing! It was not over the top in the plot, but damn, these two just couldn't seem to get a break! The story continues with Grace Preston and Cole Greyson from the first book, It's A crime. Both Grace and Cole work to try and pick up the pieces of their lives that were almost shattered by her crazy half brother Jonathan. Just when you think they are in the clear is when their world is once again rocked by the arrival of "packages" and Cole's ex-fiancé and thus begins the rollercoaster of events. Cynthia is such an amazing writer, I literally couldn't put this book down and didn't want it to end! I was sad to read the final page, but happy how she left the characters. I am looking forward to more writings from this author.

Reviewed by: Celene Campbell

[Carla · Rating 5 out of 5]

*I was given a copy of this book as a gift from Stephanie's Book Reports in exchange for an honest review.

This is the second book in the Blood and Tears series, and it is not a standalone. Before reading this, you need to read It's a Crime.

Cole and Grace are trying their best to move on from the past and establish a new normal for themselves. After what happened in the first book cast them into the public eye, they have received some support as well as some nasty threats. They soon learn that moving on from such a horrible event, is not as easy as they predicted.

Let me just say the I love a good mystery filled with suspense, and this book certainly did not disappoint! Great job to C.E. Hansen!!

[Philomena Callan Cheekypee · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book two in the series and the final book. I certainly recommend you read It's a Crime before reading this book as its a continuation of the story.

Cole and Graces story continues. Will these two ever get a break?

I don't want to say much about the storyline in case you haven't read both books.

If your looking for an action packed story full of romance, sexy scenes and suspense then is the the book for you.

I absolutely loved this book. I'm looking forward to reading more from this author. I loved it.

[C.P. Smith · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cole, intrigue, Cole, sex, Cole, who am I kidding, just give me more Cole....and Grace can come along if she wants!!! C.E.Hansen's second book in the series takes us on another roller coaster ride with Grace and Cole....Ms. Hansen writes some of the best sex scenes I've ever read, and her bad guys aren't just bad, they're just evil! Cole and Grace come full circle in this book and great conclusion to the first!!! Loved it!!!

[Cecily Bonney · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am completely speechless right now! Holy shit this book was so damn amazing! I literally was like what the shit just happened and how and why?!

This book is beyond good! while reading this book it was as if I reading a movie script! Yes, it is that good it should be a damn movie!

Grace, baby girl you are fierce and you love have balls of steel

Cole, handsome I want and nees you in my life!

Best chapter is 31, I cried like a damn baby! Seriously I did!

[Kelley Yontz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Again big Thank you to author for gifting me a copy of this book. Cole and Grace are my new favorite couple. We all need a man like Cole. Again another great story that provided more hot sex and another mystery/crime to solve. Loved this one even more than the first one and perfect ending! I actually had to stay up late because I wanted to finish it. Great Book and look forward to reading more books by C.E. Hansen.

[Sandra Gooding · Rating 5 out of 5]

Holy crap. This book was better than the first one and I thought I loved Cole and Grace then. Now I'm totally in love with them. This book had me laughing and crying, and I don't cry when I read. I totally loved Michelle, she is terrific. I feel like I know her. How about a book for her C.E.? Anyway, if you haven't read these two books then you should.

[Trude Antonie · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's a shame not to read it!
The combination of mystery, suspense and erotica was perfect for me! I love the way Cindy bring life to the plot and characters. After reading the first book I couldn't wait to read this one, and just loves the twists and turns in this book!

Buy both books, they are really good!!

[Lauri Tribbey · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was the total package. From page one you are on a roller coaster ride of suspense, murderer and passion. This book delivers so many heart stopping moments you just don't know where the characters are going to end up. Congratulations to C.E.Hansen for sn awesome book.

[Lynkcheck · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great sequel! This one had even more twists and turns than It's a Shame! I love Cole and Grace!
Michelle and Dean are great together ~ I think they need their own book hint hint!

[Amanda Showalter · Rating 4 out of 5]

As a follow up to book one I would have to say that I am happy about how this book turned out. So many times the second book in a series seems rushed or never lives up to the first book. This book was just as good as the first.

Poor Grace and Cole literally survived what they thought was the worst part of their lives, the problem is that it isn't over and that nothing is as it seems. They are trying to get on with their lives and their love after picking up the pieces of what happened. This book is just as well written and gives more depth to characters that were already well written. Grace's brother really did a number on them. Grace is upset, anxious, anxious and starting to alienate Cole. Meanwhile Cole is trying to deal with his own issues and how Grace is acting.

I highly suggest that you read this follow up if you enjoyed book 1.

[Claudia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great ending!!!

Loved the twist and turns. Steamy read. Will be reading future books from this author. Great ending to second book.

[Debra Johnson]

Purch Amz Oct 27, 2020