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Secrets & Shadows #0.6
Break For Me
Jensen Bell had twelve happy years before her her mother disappeared and her whole world went to pieces. Since then, she's become a cop—one who takes great pride in her work, and in helping keep others safe. The saving grace in her own life has been Dean West, the only man who can make her burn with desire and help her through her burdens. But when a shocking discovery turns her life upside-down, even being wrapped in Dean’s arms might not be enough to keep her out of harm's way…
80 pages, ebook
First published April 22, 2014
8 people are currently reading
506 people want to read
About the author
Shiloh Walker
202 books2,435 followersHello... thanks for swinging by. I don't log into Goodreads much, so if you have questions, please visit my website to email me through my site.
Thank you!
My other me.... J.C. Daniels
And an experimental me that I put to sleep. J. Dallas
Bio...
Shiloh Walker has been writing since she was a kid. She fell in love with vampires with the book Bunnicula and has worked her way up to the more...ah...serious vampire stories. She loves reading and writing anything paranormal, anything fantasy, and nearly every kind of romance. Once upon a time she worked as a nurse, but now she writes full time and lives with her family in the Midwest.
To contact the author, please visit her website!
Thank you!
My other me.... J.C. Daniels
And an experimental me that I put to sleep. J. Dallas
Bio...
Shiloh Walker has been writing since she was a kid. She fell in love with vampires with the book Bunnicula and has worked her way up to the more...ah...serious vampire stories. She loves reading and writing anything paranormal, anything fantasy, and nearly every kind of romance. Once upon a time she worked as a nurse, but now she writes full time and lives with her family in the Midwest.
To contact the author, please visit her website!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
May 11, 2015
3.5 Stars
I have to say, for an 80 page novella, I was pleasantly surprised at the depth of it. After reading Burn For Me, I wasn't exactly sold on the couple in that book but I was definitely hooked on the suspense arc of it. So of course I dove straight into Break For Me to see all the secrets unravel.
Twelve years ago the Bell siblings lost their mother and they have also spent twelve years wondering what happened to her. While the older brother, Tate, always blamed their father for her disappearance and withdrew into himself and his hatred until a woman opened his eyes, his sisters always knew otherwise. They knew that their father had nothing to do with it, but the mystery behind her disappearance ate away at them just the same. Each sister took their own focus and Jensen turned to law enforcement.
Now a take-no-prisoners (ha! see what I did there?) cop, the bane of her existence becomes the too sexy for his own good and cocky ADA, Dean West. Dean has always wanted Jensen, but her hands off attitude never gave him the invite he needed. But then one night that all changes and the passion between them finally ignites and burns.
This is a short, quick paced and very sexy novella that I finished in one sitting. To be honest, considering just how short it was I was surprised that I was able to connect to the couple as much as I did. I loved reading about the further unveiling of the missing mother, and boy does the set up for the next book look to be a juicy one.
Burn For Me, Break For Me and Long For Me are all part of the same story arc but introduces a different couple in each book. Next is Guy and Christina's story, and I just know it's going to be a good one. The set up sounds like one angsty and emotional read which is exactly right up my alley.
Though it wasn't a story that completely blew me away, it was a very solid 3.5 star read that I'd recommend for anyone looking for a sexy and suspenseful story to spend an afternoon with.
ARC courtesy of publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
For more reviews visit
I have to say, for an 80 page novella, I was pleasantly surprised at the depth of it. After reading Burn For Me, I wasn't exactly sold on the couple in that book but I was definitely hooked on the suspense arc of it. So of course I dove straight into Break For Me to see all the secrets unravel.
Twelve years ago the Bell siblings lost their mother and they have also spent twelve years wondering what happened to her. While the older brother, Tate, always blamed their father for her disappearance and withdrew into himself and his hatred until a woman opened his eyes, his sisters always knew otherwise. They knew that their father had nothing to do with it, but the mystery behind her disappearance ate away at them just the same. Each sister took their own focus and Jensen turned to law enforcement.
Now a take-no-prisoners (ha! see what I did there?) cop, the bane of her existence becomes the too sexy for his own good and cocky ADA, Dean West. Dean has always wanted Jensen, but her hands off attitude never gave him the invite he needed. But then one night that all changes and the passion between them finally ignites and burns.
This is a short, quick paced and very sexy novella that I finished in one sitting. To be honest, considering just how short it was I was surprised that I was able to connect to the couple as much as I did. I loved reading about the further unveiling of the missing mother, and boy does the set up for the next book look to be a juicy one.
Burn For Me, Break For Me and Long For Me are all part of the same story arc but introduces a different couple in each book. Next is Guy and Christina's story, and I just know it's going to be a good one. The set up sounds like one angsty and emotional read which is exactly right up my alley.
Though it wasn't a story that completely blew me away, it was a very solid 3.5 star read that I'd recommend for anyone looking for a sexy and suspenseful story to spend an afternoon with.
ARC courtesy of publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
For more reviews visit
May 1, 2014
In Break for Me we meet Jensen, one of the three Bell siblings. They have a very tragic past, their mother disappeared 15 years ago, and the mystery of her disappearance is still unsolved and an open wound for all of them.
Jensen Bell is the Middle of the three Bell Siblings. She is a Detective in the City of Madison, where she grew up. The tragedy of her past has never left her and she is still looking for her mother. She keeps her emotions under wrap, but there is one person that makes her feel again.
Dean West is the D.A and has his own tragic past. He has been attracted to Jensen since he took the D. A. position, but her keep-away-vibes have kept him at a distance. When he finally decides to make his move, sparks fly and not always in a good way.
Another hit for Shiloh!! Break for Me is the second of three Novella’s about the Bell Family and part of Shiloh Walkers Secrets & Shadows Series. It picks up where Burn for Me left off. It may be short but it has everything you look for in a book. There is romance, mystery, suspense, and sex. I felt exactly what was happening as a read it.
It has been a while since I have felt that intense of a connection with Characters in a book. I instantly fell in love with Dean. The chemistry between him and Jensen is off the charts, when they finally give in to it that is. They have both suffered a great loss that has changed their lives and made them the people they are today. Jensen is still looking for answers to her mother’s disappearance and Dean is still hurting from his past. When they find out more about what happened all those years ago, Dean is right there with her. I am looking forward to the third novella on the Bell Family and hopefully, a conclusion to the mystery of Nicole Bells disappearance.
Break For Me
Jensen Bell is the Middle of the three Bell Siblings. She is a Detective in the City of Madison, where she grew up. The tragedy of her past has never left her and she is still looking for her mother. She keeps her emotions under wrap, but there is one person that makes her feel again.
Dean West is the D.A and has his own tragic past. He has been attracted to Jensen since he took the D. A. position, but her keep-away-vibes have kept him at a distance. When he finally decides to make his move, sparks fly and not always in a good way.
Another hit for Shiloh!! Break for Me is the second of three Novella’s about the Bell Family and part of Shiloh Walkers Secrets & Shadows Series. It picks up where Burn for Me left off. It may be short but it has everything you look for in a book. There is romance, mystery, suspense, and sex. I felt exactly what was happening as a read it.
It has been a while since I have felt that intense of a connection with Characters in a book. I instantly fell in love with Dean. The chemistry between him and Jensen is off the charts, when they finally give in to it that is. They have both suffered a great loss that has changed their lives and made them the people they are today. Jensen is still looking for answers to her mother’s disappearance and Dean is still hurting from his past. When they find out more about what happened all those years ago, Dean is right there with her. I am looking forward to the third novella on the Bell Family and hopefully, a conclusion to the mystery of Nicole Bells disappearance.
Break For Me
March 12, 2015
The best short story in this series so far.
Loved Jensen and Dean's story!
Loved Jensen and Dean's story!
July 30, 2014
3.5 stars
This second installment prequel into the town of Madison and another step closer to finding out what happened to the Bell family. This story is about the sister, Jensen. She’s a badass cop and has been damaged and affected just like Tate was about their mother’s disappearance. Now on the anniversary, Jensen’s emotions run high and her attraction for the new sexy DA can’t be denied any longer.
I always love a strong heroine but in this case, even though Jensen is tough and kick ass, she shows a very vulnerable side of her personality. Dean West has been waiting for over a year to make his move. His intentions towards Jensen are clear. He doesn’t want just one night, he wants to be with her and give their attraction a chance to flourish into a relationship. Maybe his timing was just right this time. He’s just the rock she needs to get through finding out what happened to her mother.
I think the author did a great job of bringing these two characters together. We get enough back story to know that this is not insta-love or even insta-lust. They’ve been tiptoeing around each other for a long time. That always helps me dive in easier with a short story like this. And when they finally came together…it was undeniable and explosive!
Although I enjoyed Dean and Jensen, their connection and their chemistry, I think this story was a bit too short for me to form an attachment to the characters. It was more interesting to see the unfolding of the bigger picture in the story, for me. This felt more like a slice of life type story, even so, a very enjoyable one at that. However, the writing is as always flawless and engaging and I can’t wait to see the final chapter in the Bell family saga, as well as diving deeper into Madison.
*ARC provided by publisher
This second installment prequel into the town of Madison and another step closer to finding out what happened to the Bell family. This story is about the sister, Jensen. She’s a badass cop and has been damaged and affected just like Tate was about their mother’s disappearance. Now on the anniversary, Jensen’s emotions run high and her attraction for the new sexy DA can’t be denied any longer.
I always love a strong heroine but in this case, even though Jensen is tough and kick ass, she shows a very vulnerable side of her personality. Dean West has been waiting for over a year to make his move. His intentions towards Jensen are clear. He doesn’t want just one night, he wants to be with her and give their attraction a chance to flourish into a relationship. Maybe his timing was just right this time. He’s just the rock she needs to get through finding out what happened to her mother.
I think the author did a great job of bringing these two characters together. We get enough back story to know that this is not insta-love or even insta-lust. They’ve been tiptoeing around each other for a long time. That always helps me dive in easier with a short story like this. And when they finally came together…it was undeniable and explosive!
Although I enjoyed Dean and Jensen, their connection and their chemistry, I think this story was a bit too short for me to form an attachment to the characters. It was more interesting to see the unfolding of the bigger picture in the story, for me. This felt more like a slice of life type story, even so, a very enjoyable one at that. However, the writing is as always flawless and engaging and I can’t wait to see the final chapter in the Bell family saga, as well as diving deeper into Madison.
*ARC provided by publisher
July 23, 2016
Wow...I am absolutely and completely in love with Break For Me, and the Secrets & Shadows series. The chemistry and heartfelt emotion, contained within these 80 pages, have just blown me away and I cannot wait to feast my eyes on more from this amazing new to me author!
The love story between Jensen Bell and Dean West is just exquisite. There are no games, no running and no hiding, or denial, between them. Just honesty, lust, love and acceptance. They each have tragic pasts that allow them to fully realize how precious, what they have together, truly is. So they embrace their feelings instead of rejecting them and it makes for such a beautifully sweet story!
Break For Me picks up right where Burn For Me left off. Jensen and her family are still reeling from the loss of their mother fifteen years ago. They are desperate for answers and, as the anniversary of her disappearance approaches, things happen that might finally give them those answers. My heart continued to bleed for Jensen, Tate, Christina and their father. Their pain and suffering were palpable and after reading their heart wrenching story, I want, and need, closure almost as badly as they do.
In my opinion, Break For Me is an absolute must read. This short novella packs a definite punch and will leave you hungry for the next book. Shiloh Walker delivers another fantastic contemporary romance read with this installment and I cannot wait to read more!
ARC copy provided by the Publisher, via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review.
The love story between Jensen Bell and Dean West is just exquisite. There are no games, no running and no hiding, or denial, between them. Just honesty, lust, love and acceptance. They each have tragic pasts that allow them to fully realize how precious, what they have together, truly is. So they embrace their feelings instead of rejecting them and it makes for such a beautifully sweet story!
Break For Me picks up right where Burn For Me left off. Jensen and her family are still reeling from the loss of their mother fifteen years ago. They are desperate for answers and, as the anniversary of her disappearance approaches, things happen that might finally give them those answers. My heart continued to bleed for Jensen, Tate, Christina and their father. Their pain and suffering were palpable and after reading their heart wrenching story, I want, and need, closure almost as badly as they do.
In my opinion, Break For Me is an absolute must read. This short novella packs a definite punch and will leave you hungry for the next book. Shiloh Walker delivers another fantastic contemporary romance read with this installment and I cannot wait to read more!
ARC copy provided by the Publisher, via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review.
June 9, 2014
To always wonder about a missing family member because no body is ever recovered is difficult. Jensen's been waiting years to find out what happened to her mother. There is no reason why her mother would have left her father or her children. Jensen is a cop because she's wants to protect others from the pain she suffered as a motherless child. Her mission in life is to put the bad guys away for life.
Jensen is a character easily understandable. She's tough, straightforward and abides strict morale rules. Her world tends to be more black and white. Ms. Walker throws Jensen off with Dean whose job is to dance in the gray. Dean is a lawyer whose job is to look at the bigger picture. Sometimes it's distasteful but someone needs to make the hard calls.
These two characters are seemingly opposed in their life view. Yet when they are together, they bring the best out in each other. I like this about Ms. Walker's books. Her characters are never perfect. They are designed to balance the other out. While it's not quite soul mate material, it's still a lovely match and makes romantics sigh in happiness.
This is a very short story and a glimpse into the bigger story arc. I wish there was more to this serial. Still, it's a good taste of a new series. I want to read more about Jensen and Dean. Recommended for romantics.
*provided by NetGalley
Jensen is a character easily understandable. She's tough, straightforward and abides strict morale rules. Her world tends to be more black and white. Ms. Walker throws Jensen off with Dean whose job is to dance in the gray. Dean is a lawyer whose job is to look at the bigger picture. Sometimes it's distasteful but someone needs to make the hard calls.
These two characters are seemingly opposed in their life view. Yet when they are together, they bring the best out in each other. I like this about Ms. Walker's books. Her characters are never perfect. They are designed to balance the other out. While it's not quite soul mate material, it's still a lovely match and makes romantics sigh in happiness.
This is a very short story and a glimpse into the bigger story arc. I wish there was more to this serial. Still, it's a good taste of a new series. I want to read more about Jensen and Dean. Recommended for romantics.
*provided by NetGalley
March 20, 2017
Dans Burn For Me, il y a eu quelques questions restaient sans réponse, et un passage qui était inexplicable. Ici, l’auteure répond à certaines choses du tome précédent.
Jensen est sur les nerfs, elle est en train de « célébrer » avec sa famille la semaine de la disparition de sa mère. Ils le font chaque année depuis quinze ans, c’est une manière à eux de se serrer les coudes et de ne pas sombrer dans le désespoir de ne pas savoir depuis autant d’années.
Dean West est un procureur qui aime passer son temps dans le commissariat où travaille Jensen, la femme dont il est fou amoureux depuis deux ans, mais qui ne lui accorde pas un seul regard.
Et en cette nuit, il est prêt à mettre fin à cette torture et à lui dire au revoir.
Pendant ce temps, une chose enfouie depuis des années commence peu à peu à refaire surface.
Jensen est comme son frère, Tate, elle n’arrive pas à se construire depuis la disparition de sa mère. Sa vie professionnelle est au beau fixe, mais sa vie personnelle est un véritable désert. Pourtant, elle brûle de désir pour le beau Dean à chaque fois qu’elle le croise, mais elle n’arrive pas à sauter le pas. Mais, en cette nuit, sous son porche, alors que Dean lui dit au revoir, elle devra prendre une décision.
J’ai beaucoup aimé les personnages de Dean et Jensen. Jensen est une femme forte, sauf quand il s’agit de sa mère. Quant à Dean, c’est un homme meurtri qui s’est reconstruit en venant s’installer dans cette petite ville du Wisconsin.
Mais, même si ce couple prend l’histoire principale de cette nouvelle, la véritable histoire réside dans les nouveaux indices découverts sur la disparition de Nichole, la mère de Tate, Jensen et Chrissie. Des nouveaux éléments vont chambouler la vie de cette famille.
L’auteure qui nous tenait déjà en haleine dans Burn For Me, continue de jouer avec nos nerfs avec cette nouvelle. Mais ce n’est que pour mieux savourer la révélation finale qui se trouve dans la prochaine nouvelle, Long For Me.
Shiloh Walker sait définitivement créer ses histoires à la perfection et sait nous faire aimer ses personnages torturés qui finissent par se reprendre en main pour trouver enfin le bonheur qu’ils méritent.
Jensen est sur les nerfs, elle est en train de « célébrer » avec sa famille la semaine de la disparition de sa mère. Ils le font chaque année depuis quinze ans, c’est une manière à eux de se serrer les coudes et de ne pas sombrer dans le désespoir de ne pas savoir depuis autant d’années.
Dean West est un procureur qui aime passer son temps dans le commissariat où travaille Jensen, la femme dont il est fou amoureux depuis deux ans, mais qui ne lui accorde pas un seul regard.
Et en cette nuit, il est prêt à mettre fin à cette torture et à lui dire au revoir.
Pendant ce temps, une chose enfouie depuis des années commence peu à peu à refaire surface.
Jensen est comme son frère, Tate, elle n’arrive pas à se construire depuis la disparition de sa mère. Sa vie professionnelle est au beau fixe, mais sa vie personnelle est un véritable désert. Pourtant, elle brûle de désir pour le beau Dean à chaque fois qu’elle le croise, mais elle n’arrive pas à sauter le pas. Mais, en cette nuit, sous son porche, alors que Dean lui dit au revoir, elle devra prendre une décision.
J’ai beaucoup aimé les personnages de Dean et Jensen. Jensen est une femme forte, sauf quand il s’agit de sa mère. Quant à Dean, c’est un homme meurtri qui s’est reconstruit en venant s’installer dans cette petite ville du Wisconsin.
Mais, même si ce couple prend l’histoire principale de cette nouvelle, la véritable histoire réside dans les nouveaux indices découverts sur la disparition de Nichole, la mère de Tate, Jensen et Chrissie. Des nouveaux éléments vont chambouler la vie de cette famille.
L’auteure qui nous tenait déjà en haleine dans Burn For Me, continue de jouer avec nos nerfs avec cette nouvelle. Mais ce n’est que pour mieux savourer la révélation finale qui se trouve dans la prochaine nouvelle, Long For Me.
Shiloh Walker sait définitivement créer ses histoires à la perfection et sait nous faire aimer ses personnages torturés qui finissent par se reprendre en main pour trouver enfin le bonheur qu’ils méritent.
August 22, 2020
Novel 2
Great follow up to the first novel burn for me. Shiloh keeps it edgy for dark but the romance is still there to make you ache and sigh.
Great follow up to the first novel burn for me. Shiloh keeps it edgy for dark but the romance is still there to make you ache and sigh.
March 18, 2021
Suspense and Romance
Once again Ms Walker brings it! Great characters that draw you into an amazing storyline and always ends with a great finish. Thank you Thank you!
Once again Ms Walker brings it! Great characters that draw you into an amazing storyline and always ends with a great finish. Thank you Thank you!
April 22, 2014
Originally posted at http://smexybooks.com/2014/04/review-...
Favorite Quote: “He’d only been waiting half a lifetime, it seemed. Maybe his entire life.”
Jensen Bell’s mother disappeared when she was twelve. Sent to foster care with her siblings, they were later reunited with their father when he was cleared of any wrong doing. Jensen’s childhood pushed her to becoming a police officer; dedicated to helping those in need. When a shocking discovery in made in her mother’s case, she finds her saving grace in a man whose strength and passion demands her total surrender.
District Attorney Dean West has wanted Jensen Bell for a very long time. Not a native to the town, he is unfamiliar with the tragedy and mystery that surrounds Jensen Bell and her siblings. A break in the Bell case sends Jensen running into Dean’s arms and she discovers she has finally found her way home. But the circumstances surrounding the case could destroy Jensen and unless Dean holds tight, it could tear them both apart for good.
Break For Me is the second in Shiloh Walker’s romance suspense series-Secrets and Shadows. Three novellas begin the series; each novella focuses on one sibling and the ramifications of a decades old cold case involving the disappearance of their mother. The full length novel-Deeper Than Need-releases June 2014.
Break For Me has a much lighter conflict romance wise then the first novella. Still emotional and suspenseful in regards to the ongoing arc, we don’t get the intense push and pull between the protagonists. Dean and Jensen have an established work relationship and it’s apparent from page one that both want more from each other. The chemistry is striking and the sparks fly with every scene they are in together. I enjoyed watching the bloom of awareness and subsequent reaction as these two begin to act on an attraction that exists between them.
Walker brings Jensen and Dean together with relative ease, allowing the main conflict to heighten the emotions that resonate through this novella. Hot steamy love scenes assure us that Jensen and Dean are well matched both physically and mentally. I loved how gentle Dean was in his dominance. A born and bred southern boy, he treats Jensen with a reverence that speaks of his deep feelings for her. A strong protective streak emerges when Jensen needs it most and Dean shows us and Jensen that he is more than willing to be her anchor in the storm that is coming. Jensen, similar to Ali from Burn For Me, is a strong heroine who isn’t one for games and has no qualms about grabbing on to what she wants and enjoying the ride.
Previously met secondary characters continue to add layers to the overall mystery. Each one a viable player in the final outcome. As with any good suspense, there are multiple sub plots running through the main storyline and each one is a possible key to the final outcome. Walker pushes us gently along in here, giving us more clues towards what happened that fateful night so many years ago, preparing us for the finale novella with the promise to reveal everything.
Break For Me pushes us towards the finale and is a must read for those readers who love their romances dark and emotional. I am looking forward to the release of her next novella in the series, Long For Me, set to release May 2014, from St Martin’s.
Overall Rating: B+
Favorite Quote: “He’d only been waiting half a lifetime, it seemed. Maybe his entire life.”
Jensen Bell’s mother disappeared when she was twelve. Sent to foster care with her siblings, they were later reunited with their father when he was cleared of any wrong doing. Jensen’s childhood pushed her to becoming a police officer; dedicated to helping those in need. When a shocking discovery in made in her mother’s case, she finds her saving grace in a man whose strength and passion demands her total surrender.
District Attorney Dean West has wanted Jensen Bell for a very long time. Not a native to the town, he is unfamiliar with the tragedy and mystery that surrounds Jensen Bell and her siblings. A break in the Bell case sends Jensen running into Dean’s arms and she discovers she has finally found her way home. But the circumstances surrounding the case could destroy Jensen and unless Dean holds tight, it could tear them both apart for good.
Break For Me is the second in Shiloh Walker’s romance suspense series-Secrets and Shadows. Three novellas begin the series; each novella focuses on one sibling and the ramifications of a decades old cold case involving the disappearance of their mother. The full length novel-Deeper Than Need-releases June 2014.
Break For Me has a much lighter conflict romance wise then the first novella. Still emotional and suspenseful in regards to the ongoing arc, we don’t get the intense push and pull between the protagonists. Dean and Jensen have an established work relationship and it’s apparent from page one that both want more from each other. The chemistry is striking and the sparks fly with every scene they are in together. I enjoyed watching the bloom of awareness and subsequent reaction as these two begin to act on an attraction that exists between them.
Walker brings Jensen and Dean together with relative ease, allowing the main conflict to heighten the emotions that resonate through this novella. Hot steamy love scenes assure us that Jensen and Dean are well matched both physically and mentally. I loved how gentle Dean was in his dominance. A born and bred southern boy, he treats Jensen with a reverence that speaks of his deep feelings for her. A strong protective streak emerges when Jensen needs it most and Dean shows us and Jensen that he is more than willing to be her anchor in the storm that is coming. Jensen, similar to Ali from Burn For Me, is a strong heroine who isn’t one for games and has no qualms about grabbing on to what she wants and enjoying the ride.
Previously met secondary characters continue to add layers to the overall mystery. Each one a viable player in the final outcome. As with any good suspense, there are multiple sub plots running through the main storyline and each one is a possible key to the final outcome. Walker pushes us gently along in here, giving us more clues towards what happened that fateful night so many years ago, preparing us for the finale novella with the promise to reveal everything.
Break For Me pushes us towards the finale and is a must read for those readers who love their romances dark and emotional. I am looking forward to the release of her next novella in the series, Long For Me, set to release May 2014, from St Martin’s.
Overall Rating: B+
April 24, 2014
…Dean supposed if he was smart, he wouldn’t still be chasing after her, hoping against hope that something inside her would soften, that he’d get an opening-that the interest he’d seen spark in her eyes once or twice would flare. Just a chance. That was all he needed.
The slightest opening...
Break For Me is the second novella prequel (labeled on GR as #.06) in author Shiloh Walker’s new Secrets & Shadows series. Shiloh Walker chose to release three prequel novellas (Burn For Me, Break For Me, and Long For Me) before the release of the full length novel Deeper Than Need, expected to be released June 3rd, 2014. The novellas are all tied together and focus on siblings from the Bell family. Each of the siblings has different romantic journeys to take but all struggle with the mysterious disappearance of their mother years earlier. So a little romance and a little suspense! Each novella focuses on one sibling and while the romantic part of the story more or less concludes at the end of the book, the overall suspense portion of the story does not. The ongoing mystery about what happened to Nichole Bell, their mother, is continued throughout these books and readers should expect to have to read several books to get the complete story.
I am not a fan of serial stories or cliffhanger endings. I find them many times unnecessary and a gimmick by authors to drive sales. So what in the world am I doing reading the Secrets & Shadows series, knowing that I’ll have to read several books to get the whole story? Shiloh Walker. I’m a fan. A big one. I love her romantic suspense books (The Ash Trilogy) and have been waiting for her to release new romantic suspense material forever. I’m going to wait until I’ve finished reading the series to decide if I thought breaking them up was necessary or not. I do think the current $2.99 price tag for 80 pages is a bit steep. Eventually, I'm guessing these will be bundled together in one book. That's just a guess! But for now, I’m all in!
Break For Me focuses on Jensen Bell, a dedicated police officer who is haunted by her mother’s unexplained disappearance when she was just a child and Dean West, the District Attorney that wants her. Unfortunately, there just wasn’t a lot of room for development with the shorter length. The story could have been so much more with room to explore the relationship between Jensen and Dean. I did like the writing. I actually love Shiloh Walker’s writing style, how she puts her words together. The sexy bits were really steamy and well written. I liked Jensen and Dean together and appreciated that Jensen could be vulnerable with him. I definitely was left wanting more. And I’m guessing that’s the point… I'm interested to see where this series ends up. A solid 3.5 STAR and a desire to read more...
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for a copy of this book in exchange for a honest review.
September 22, 2014
Ladies & gentlemen. The Shiloh Walker that I know and love is back. Back with a bang that completely blew me away. The second novella in the Shadows & Secrets series rocked my world and then some and I was so happy that I literally could’ve stood on the bed and jumped up and down in glee if not for the fact that it was way past midnight and the rest of the world was asleep regardless of the groundbreaking story I had just read.
I requested for this on Netgalley on a whim. It has been quite sometime since a Shiloh Walker novel has worked for me and though I was hesitant to take the chance, the remnants of what I used to love about her books coming across on her novels every now and then made me think what the heck and here I am, way past the review deadline and I could practically kick myself for delaying getting to this one.
The three novellas in the Shadows & Secrets series focuses on three siblings, each having been marked in their own way by the disappearance of their mother years back. I didn’t even know that this series had a continuing storyline when I picked it up and thus I would say that this totally can be read as a standalone. This installment focuses on Jensen Bell, a cop and a woman who wears attitude unlike any other according to the District Attorney Dean West.
The attraction that is between Dean and Jensen is a forcefully banked one by both parties, Jensen because she doesn’t want to make herself vulnerable to anyone and Dean because he is unsure whether his advances in that manner would be welcome. And then on a night that Jensen would like to forget the past, the inevitable happens and Dean finds himself practically eviscerated by the passion that burns between them. *pants a bit upon recalling the scenes*.
I’d say Shiloh Walker has hit jackpot with this series and I don’t say this lightly. There’s a hero that made me want to practically jump his bones every time his name came up in the story and then there’s the lovable heroine that I rooted for, felt for and empathized with in over just 90 plus pages. The mystery aspect was chilling and engrossing at the same time and I couldn’t have asked for more of an explosive culmination to the story in either aspect. And that ladies and gentlemen is why I say the author who won me over with just a single novel i.e. ‘Her Best friend’s Lover’ is back – with a bang.
Definitely recommended!
Rating = 4.5/5
For more reviews & quotes, visit www.maldivianbookreviewer.com
I requested for this on Netgalley on a whim. It has been quite sometime since a Shiloh Walker novel has worked for me and though I was hesitant to take the chance, the remnants of what I used to love about her books coming across on her novels every now and then made me think what the heck and here I am, way past the review deadline and I could practically kick myself for delaying getting to this one.
The three novellas in the Shadows & Secrets series focuses on three siblings, each having been marked in their own way by the disappearance of their mother years back. I didn’t even know that this series had a continuing storyline when I picked it up and thus I would say that this totally can be read as a standalone. This installment focuses on Jensen Bell, a cop and a woman who wears attitude unlike any other according to the District Attorney Dean West.
The attraction that is between Dean and Jensen is a forcefully banked one by both parties, Jensen because she doesn’t want to make herself vulnerable to anyone and Dean because he is unsure whether his advances in that manner would be welcome. And then on a night that Jensen would like to forget the past, the inevitable happens and Dean finds himself practically eviscerated by the passion that burns between them. *pants a bit upon recalling the scenes*.
I’d say Shiloh Walker has hit jackpot with this series and I don’t say this lightly. There’s a hero that made me want to practically jump his bones every time his name came up in the story and then there’s the lovable heroine that I rooted for, felt for and empathized with in over just 90 plus pages. The mystery aspect was chilling and engrossing at the same time and I couldn’t have asked for more of an explosive culmination to the story in either aspect. And that ladies and gentlemen is why I say the author who won me over with just a single novel i.e. ‘Her Best friend’s Lover’ is back – with a bang.
Definitely recommended!
Rating = 4.5/5
For more reviews & quotes, visit www.maldivianbookreviewer.com
April 26, 2014
Break For Me by Shiloh Walker is the second novella in her new Secrets and Shadows series. Break For Me picks up where Burn For Me left off. The Bell family lost their mother 15 years ago. No one knows what happened to her. There have been no answers and no clues, they all still suffer in their own ways. Jensen, the oldest daughter, is a police officer now. She takes pride in her job, in keeping people safe.
Dean is a DA with shadows and pain in his past too. From the moment he saw Jensen he was intrigued by her. She is full of attitude, but as much as Dean sees through that it is also part of what draws him to her. They see each other a lot on the job and Jensen is just as attracted to him, but she has no plans to act on it. That changes quickly though, and soon Dean and Jensen are exploring the chemistry they create in the best possible ways. It is so much more than just chemistry though, and when Jensen needs someone to lean on Dean is there for her. They are there for each other, even as the past starts rearing it's ugly head with answers no one expected and even more questions.
I loved Break For Me! Not only does Shiloh give us a fantastic romance with Dean and Jensen, she continues the mystery of what happened to Jensen's mother. Break For Me is a fast paced novella that is easy to become absorbed in. The length is perfect for this part of the story being told. I really like how Shiloh finished each novella so that it can be carried over into another story, but it is definitely not what I would call a cliffhanger.
Dean and Jensen are both strong characters who have known each other for a year now as colleagues, so when the romance strikes it seems realistic for it to move pretty quickly. Shiloh's writing of Break For Me will evoke many strong feelings in you when you read this, and have your heart loving these characters. Shiloh's smooth writing style make it easy to get to know Jensen and Dean, and really want things to work out for them.
I really enjoyed the carry over of family and characters from Burn For Me as well as the small town feel. They make me eager to read the next novella in this series!
I'd highly recommend Break For Me to any romance reader looking for a captivating romance with a mystery woven intricately into the plot.
Dean is a DA with shadows and pain in his past too. From the moment he saw Jensen he was intrigued by her. She is full of attitude, but as much as Dean sees through that it is also part of what draws him to her. They see each other a lot on the job and Jensen is just as attracted to him, but she has no plans to act on it. That changes quickly though, and soon Dean and Jensen are exploring the chemistry they create in the best possible ways. It is so much more than just chemistry though, and when Jensen needs someone to lean on Dean is there for her. They are there for each other, even as the past starts rearing it's ugly head with answers no one expected and even more questions.
I loved Break For Me! Not only does Shiloh give us a fantastic romance with Dean and Jensen, she continues the mystery of what happened to Jensen's mother. Break For Me is a fast paced novella that is easy to become absorbed in. The length is perfect for this part of the story being told. I really like how Shiloh finished each novella so that it can be carried over into another story, but it is definitely not what I would call a cliffhanger.
Dean and Jensen are both strong characters who have known each other for a year now as colleagues, so when the romance strikes it seems realistic for it to move pretty quickly. Shiloh's writing of Break For Me will evoke many strong feelings in you when you read this, and have your heart loving these characters. Shiloh's smooth writing style make it easy to get to know Jensen and Dean, and really want things to work out for them.
I really enjoyed the carry over of family and characters from Burn For Me as well as the small town feel. They make me eager to read the next novella in this series!
I'd highly recommend Break For Me to any romance reader looking for a captivating romance with a mystery woven intricately into the plot.
April 22, 2014
http://ripeforreader.blogspot.com/201...
My rating: 5 of 5 ⭐️
Fifteen years ago, when detective Jensen Bell was only twelve years old, her mother disappeared without a trace. What followed were years of agonizing turmoil, limbo and loss, with nothing to show for it but a career in law enforcement, and a tendency to keep a tight reign on her emotions. The only person who seems to shake her up, is D.A. Dean West, who has the ability to get under her skin in more than one way.
Since meeting the small but fiery detective Bell a year ago, Dean West has been waiting for an opportunity to approach her on a personal level, but so far he has barely been able to hang on to his gonads whenever dealing with her. Ironically, her abbrasive demeanor doesn't quite hide the glimpses of desire he can see reflected back to him.
When a recent rainfall reveals a possibility of a lead, many years of tightly held control finally break loose and the only one who can seem to hold Jensen together is Dean.
****
Short but incredibly potent!!!
I strongly suggest reading Shiloh Walker's BURN FOR ME first. It is the story of Jensen's brother Tate and will help with some of the background and continuity of this installment, even though technically this is a story in its own right.
There are few as adept at describing a passion hot and bubbling right under the surface, quite as eloquently as Ms. Walker. Similarly the closely held feelings of pain and anger, so near to explosion. She never needs to use the actual words to convey the emotional turbulence, but manages to paint an indelible picture nonetheless, simply using her solid knowledge of her characters, through mannerisms, scarse words and mere hints of demeanor to get her point across.
Not often would I give a five star rating to a short story as this, but despite the limited word count, there is nothing missing from this book. Everything I need is right here, in a minimum of words, yet every word as meaningful as the next.
✨Beautiful, insightful and intelligent writing!!✨
**Copy provided in return for an honest review.**
My rating: 5 of 5 ⭐️
Fifteen years ago, when detective Jensen Bell was only twelve years old, her mother disappeared without a trace. What followed were years of agonizing turmoil, limbo and loss, with nothing to show for it but a career in law enforcement, and a tendency to keep a tight reign on her emotions. The only person who seems to shake her up, is D.A. Dean West, who has the ability to get under her skin in more than one way.
Since meeting the small but fiery detective Bell a year ago, Dean West has been waiting for an opportunity to approach her on a personal level, but so far he has barely been able to hang on to his gonads whenever dealing with her. Ironically, her abbrasive demeanor doesn't quite hide the glimpses of desire he can see reflected back to him.
When a recent rainfall reveals a possibility of a lead, many years of tightly held control finally break loose and the only one who can seem to hold Jensen together is Dean.
****
Short but incredibly potent!!!
I strongly suggest reading Shiloh Walker's BURN FOR ME first. It is the story of Jensen's brother Tate and will help with some of the background and continuity of this installment, even though technically this is a story in its own right.
There are few as adept at describing a passion hot and bubbling right under the surface, quite as eloquently as Ms. Walker. Similarly the closely held feelings of pain and anger, so near to explosion. She never needs to use the actual words to convey the emotional turbulence, but manages to paint an indelible picture nonetheless, simply using her solid knowledge of her characters, through mannerisms, scarse words and mere hints of demeanor to get her point across.
Not often would I give a five star rating to a short story as this, but despite the limited word count, there is nothing missing from this book. Everything I need is right here, in a minimum of words, yet every word as meaningful as the next.
✨Beautiful, insightful and intelligent writing!!✨
**Copy provided in return for an honest review.**
September 24, 2014
Actual rating 3.5 stars.
This novella surprisingly worked for me. I wasn't sure whether I would like another of Walker's books but I did. While I've only read one before and ended up liking it, it just didn't leave much of a lasting impression on me--I could take it or leave it.
Break For Me is the second prequel in the Secrets & Shadows series and while I had not read the first novella it wasn't terribly hard to follow along. Our heroine, Jensen is a local detective who starts a relationship with the DA, Dean - and our hero - that seemingly started off as a way to give into the tension that was obviously present between the two of them. But it turns into more because they both had feelings for each other that ran a lot deeper than they were willing to admit.
But when the discovery of a body turns out to be that of Jensen's mother who had gone missing 12 years prior, Jensen's world is turned upside down once again. And these two will have to decide whether they can weather this storm or be torn apart by it.
A gritty and edgy read that features two characters who have both had tragedy hit close to home that have made them into better people and gotten them to where they are in life. Another plus for me was the inclusion of an interracial relationship, which is something that we need more of. Man, it was hot to read.
My only real peeve is that the author kept referring to the heroine grabbing onto the hero's dreads whenever they kissed. I get it. He has dreadlocks and you love the feel and texture of it. Cool beans. But I felt like that was a bit over the top with the repetitive mentions of it. I also felt like it was stereotyping. Not all black men have dreadlocks and for me it felt like this was added and mentioned - repeatedly - as if it was some sort of novelty item. I have no problem with his hair being highlighted once or maybe twice but for me it was unnecessary.
But, aside from that the book was definitely a solidly good and at times steamy read that I would recommend to other readers of romance-suspense.
An Advance reading copy was provided by the publisher.
October 3, 2014
This second installment prequel into the town of Madison and another step closer to finding out what happened to the Bell family. This story is about the sister, Jensen. She's a badass cop and has been damaged and affected just like Tate was about their mother's disappearance. Now on the anniversary, Jensen's emotions run high and her attraction for the new sexy DA can't be denied any longer.
I always love a strong heroine but in this case, even though Jensen is tough and kick ass, she shows a very vulnerable side of her personality. Dean West has been waiting for over a year to make his move. His intentions towards Jensen are clear. He doesn't want just one night, he wants to be with her and give their attraction a chance to flourish into a relationship. Maybe his timing was just right this time. He's just the rock she needs to get through finding out what happened to her mother.
I think the author did a great job of bringing these two characters together. We get enough back story to know that this is not insta-love or even insta-lust. They've been tiptoeing around each other for a long time. That always helps me dive in easier with a short story like this. And when they finally came together...it was undeniable and explosive!
Although I enjoyed Dean and Jensen, their connection and their chemistry, I think this story was a bit too short for me to form an attachment to the characters. It was more interesting to see the unfolding of the bigger picture in the story, for me. This felt more like a slice of life type story, even so, a very enjoyable one at that. However, the writing is as always flawless and engaging and I can't wait to see the final chapter in the Bell family saga, as well as diving deeper into Madison.
*ARC provided by publisher
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September 2, 2016
Another intense emotional novella…
This is the second novella in the Secrets & Shadows series and it continues the mystery that shadows the Bell family.
Jensen Bell is a cop. She was 12 years old when her mother disappeared and she has carried the weight of that ever since, it has colored all aspects of her life. Along with her father and siblings she waits for answers that might never come. There is someone in town though who does make her feel, who makes her burn but who she has kept her distance from until one night, close to the anniversary of her mother’s disappearance, when she just needs to forget and feel something.
Dean West is the new District Attorney in town. He has watched Jensen for a year, trying to capture her attention for he senses that she feels the same attraction that he does but she never lets her guard down. Then one night he makes the mistake of intruding on her family’s grief not knowing their history and it acts as the catalyst that brings them together. But he doesn’t want just one night, he wants the chance to see where things can go between them. He is not unknown to grief either and things are about to become complicated for the heavy rains have unearthed the past.
This was another intense emotional novella. This is the story of two people who have known loss finding each other when one of them needs it the most. Dean is caring and supportive and Jensen though tough is still a woman with deep vulnerabilities who is strengthened by Dean’s support and feels safe with him to show that side of herself. Two very strong and likable characters dealing with the issues that life has dealt them. You can feel their pains as they relate their stories to each other. The romance was at first tentative as they navigated their feelings but it never faltered once it began.
I have found that Shiloh Walker is one of very few authors who can believably put intense emotions and depth into their shorter works. I look forward to the next novella in this series.
This is the second novella in the Secrets & Shadows series and it continues the mystery that shadows the Bell family.
Jensen Bell is a cop. She was 12 years old when her mother disappeared and she has carried the weight of that ever since, it has colored all aspects of her life. Along with her father and siblings she waits for answers that might never come. There is someone in town though who does make her feel, who makes her burn but who she has kept her distance from until one night, close to the anniversary of her mother’s disappearance, when she just needs to forget and feel something.
Dean West is the new District Attorney in town. He has watched Jensen for a year, trying to capture her attention for he senses that she feels the same attraction that he does but she never lets her guard down. Then one night he makes the mistake of intruding on her family’s grief not knowing their history and it acts as the catalyst that brings them together. But he doesn’t want just one night, he wants the chance to see where things can go between them. He is not unknown to grief either and things are about to become complicated for the heavy rains have unearthed the past.
This was another intense emotional novella. This is the story of two people who have known loss finding each other when one of them needs it the most. Dean is caring and supportive and Jensen though tough is still a woman with deep vulnerabilities who is strengthened by Dean’s support and feels safe with him to show that side of herself. Two very strong and likable characters dealing with the issues that life has dealt them. You can feel their pains as they relate their stories to each other. The romance was at first tentative as they navigated their feelings but it never faltered once it began.
I have found that Shiloh Walker is one of very few authors who can believably put intense emotions and depth into their shorter works. I look forward to the next novella in this series.
September 28, 2014
Break For Me picks up right from where Burn for Me left off, but switches focus from the oldest Bell sibling to the middle child, Jensen, and the man she struggles to maintain a distance from, District Attorney, Dean West.
The story opens with Jensen and her siblings struggling through the day of the anniversary of their mom's disappearance fifteen years before. But on this night, she finally lets go and spends a night of passion with Dean West, then she runs. Again.
Dean is hopeful when Jensen finally stops pushing him away. He tries to accept her decision that she isn't interested in him, but then he learns that he's not the one that put that sad expression on her face. In fact, it is to him she turns to forget her pain. He braces for the fact that it may never be more than that even as he puts himself out there for her. But then a car and a body are found.
Jensen is finally getting answers that she thought she was ready for just like she thought that she had moved on after the family tragedy, but the need to fall to pieces and the fear of letting Dean get close tell her different. It is while tentatively starting something with Dean that she learns that he is no stranger to family tragedy. The answers to her mother's disappearance lead to something shocking, but Jensen doesn't have to face it alone if she will let Dean in.
While the first story captured me on all levels, this one didn't. I didn't connect with Jensen and couldn't understand what stopped her from moving on her attraction to Dean or being tough on him. There was this unnamed need for emotional walls to be up and a vague idea that she feared relationships because her folks fought which made no sense because she knew Dean wasn't like that- in fact, he was a rock of calm and steadiness. So yeah, good story and I was totally into the suspense, but Jensen's hang-ups not so much. Oh and whew! Based on what was dredged up from the evidence in the car, this story is going somewhere pretty interesting with the next installment.
The story opens with Jensen and her siblings struggling through the day of the anniversary of their mom's disappearance fifteen years before. But on this night, she finally lets go and spends a night of passion with Dean West, then she runs. Again.
Dean is hopeful when Jensen finally stops pushing him away. He tries to accept her decision that she isn't interested in him, but then he learns that he's not the one that put that sad expression on her face. In fact, it is to him she turns to forget her pain. He braces for the fact that it may never be more than that even as he puts himself out there for her. But then a car and a body are found.
Jensen is finally getting answers that she thought she was ready for just like she thought that she had moved on after the family tragedy, but the need to fall to pieces and the fear of letting Dean get close tell her different. It is while tentatively starting something with Dean that she learns that he is no stranger to family tragedy. The answers to her mother's disappearance lead to something shocking, but Jensen doesn't have to face it alone if she will let Dean in.
While the first story captured me on all levels, this one didn't. I didn't connect with Jensen and couldn't understand what stopped her from moving on her attraction to Dean or being tough on him. There was this unnamed need for emotional walls to be up and a vague idea that she feared relationships because her folks fought which made no sense because she knew Dean wasn't like that- in fact, he was a rock of calm and steadiness. So yeah, good story and I was totally into the suspense, but Jensen's hang-ups not so much. Oh and whew! Based on what was dredged up from the evidence in the car, this story is going somewhere pretty interesting with the next installment.
October 6, 2014
Jensen Bell has never gotten over her mother's disappearance. As a cop, her priority is keeping others safe. Her line of work has also put Dean West on her path. Although she doesn't do relationships she has lusted over this alluring, sexy man from the moment they met.
Dean West moved to the little town of Madison after going through a life-changing experience. He works hard to make sure criminals pay for their crimes and he has lusted after Jensen just as hard. The strong-will she always tries to keep in place and the vulnerability she tries so hard to hide call to his protective side. He wants her and he's going to do everything in his power to make her his.
Geez! This wasn't enough for me--I want more Dean! That man was the perfect combination of alpha-male and sweet, caring man. *sigh* Really, I don't know how Jensen resisted so long.
I liked this story a whole lot, I just wish it would have been longer. Jensen and Dean truly brought out the best out of one another and seeing them interact was a treat to read. I especially enjoyed the moments where they let go and just opened themselves to one another--emotionally and physically.
Of course, I loved their chemistry! That first kiss alone was worth all the drama that happened before. A perfect combination of hesitation, passion and surrender--I loved it!
This time around we get deeper into the mystery behind Jensen and Tate's mother's disappearance. Shiloh Walker does a great job in bringing new facts and adding twists and turns every other page. She also sets things up for the next story in the series, which I'm curious to read since it's bound to bring a lot more emotions and uncertainty.
All in all, an fantastic addition to the series so far with a great mix of the sexy, the suspenseful and the emotional.
*I received this title through NetGalley in exchange of my honest opinion.
Dean West moved to the little town of Madison after going through a life-changing experience. He works hard to make sure criminals pay for their crimes and he has lusted after Jensen just as hard. The strong-will she always tries to keep in place and the vulnerability she tries so hard to hide call to his protective side. He wants her and he's going to do everything in his power to make her his.
Geez! This wasn't enough for me--I want more Dean! That man was the perfect combination of alpha-male and sweet, caring man. *sigh* Really, I don't know how Jensen resisted so long.
I liked this story a whole lot, I just wish it would have been longer. Jensen and Dean truly brought out the best out of one another and seeing them interact was a treat to read. I especially enjoyed the moments where they let go and just opened themselves to one another--emotionally and physically.
Of course, I loved their chemistry! That first kiss alone was worth all the drama that happened before. A perfect combination of hesitation, passion and surrender--I loved it!
This time around we get deeper into the mystery behind Jensen and Tate's mother's disappearance. Shiloh Walker does a great job in bringing new facts and adding twists and turns every other page. She also sets things up for the next story in the series, which I'm curious to read since it's bound to bring a lot more emotions and uncertainty.
All in all, an fantastic addition to the series so far with a great mix of the sexy, the suspenseful and the emotional.
*I received this title through NetGalley in exchange of my honest opinion.
October 4, 2014
From the moment I picked up my first Shiloh Walker book, Burn for Me, I added this author to my favourites list. I was hooked on this mystery and these characters storys revolving around the disappearance of the Bell siblings mother 15 years ago. Break For Me continues where Burn for Me left off, delving further into the disappearance of Nichole while following the developing relationship between Jensen and Dean.
This novella flowed effortlessly from the first instalment, the character and plot development strong, the emotional connection easy to make and the romance passionate and intense. The chemistry between Dean and Jensen was obvious, a mutual attraction that has been simmering for a while, a slow building sexual tension that they could no longer deny. I really enjoyed the relationship between Dean and Jenson and I thought they were perfect for each other, each beautifully complementing the other. Both Jensen and Dean have their own traumatic history to deal with, both with deep emotional scars, both searching for a way to move forward and I loved the way they supported each other with this. I felt a certain maturity in their relationship that only their life experiences had taught them, further cementing why I loved this couple.
Alongside Dean and Jensens' relationship, the mystery surrounding her mothers disappearance is still developing. A shocking discovery is made and the new evidence that comes to light threatens other relationships. I liked the gritty edginess of this story and look forward to seeing the mystery unfold and the repercussions that follow. Shiloh Walker has developed a great storyline in this series and I can't wait to start Chrissie and Guys' story.
copy kindly provided by Netgalley and the author/publisher
This novella flowed effortlessly from the first instalment, the character and plot development strong, the emotional connection easy to make and the romance passionate and intense. The chemistry between Dean and Jensen was obvious, a mutual attraction that has been simmering for a while, a slow building sexual tension that they could no longer deny. I really enjoyed the relationship between Dean and Jenson and I thought they were perfect for each other, each beautifully complementing the other. Both Jensen and Dean have their own traumatic history to deal with, both with deep emotional scars, both searching for a way to move forward and I loved the way they supported each other with this. I felt a certain maturity in their relationship that only their life experiences had taught them, further cementing why I loved this couple.
Alongside Dean and Jensens' relationship, the mystery surrounding her mothers disappearance is still developing. A shocking discovery is made and the new evidence that comes to light threatens other relationships. I liked the gritty edginess of this story and look forward to seeing the mystery unfold and the repercussions that follow. Shiloh Walker has developed a great storyline in this series and I can't wait to start Chrissie and Guys' story.
copy kindly provided by Netgalley and the author/publisher
April 23, 2014
My Review:
This is the second book/novella in the novella prequels to this new series by Shiloh Walker. I highly recommend that you read all three of the novellas in order because although they follow different characters (tied together by three siblings), they also follow the mystery of disappearance of those characters' mother 15 years ago.
This book is about Jensen, a cop, and Dean, a DA. The nature of their jobs often has them at cross-purposes, but these two have been circling each other for a while (like years) now. Honestly, this book is really about the mom. Yes, the two have a new relationship, but I was amazed at how quickly they settled into that. You could tell this was a novella just in the speed in how quickly that happened. But other than that, I did enjoy this one. I liked both characters. They had great chemistry and were really, really hot in the bedroom...and up against the door...and on the floor. ;o)
There were some interesting turns in the mother's story. Some that are going to have heartbreaking consequences in the two main characters for the final novella. I can't wait to read it.
I love romantic suspense and Shiloh Walker does it really well. While these novellas are pretty light on the suspense story, they hold a great mystery about how it all played out fifteen years ago when the mother disappeared. I'm loving getting to know this small town and can't wait to delve into the full-length novels of the series. But first, the final novella...Chrissie's story...the baby of the family. And Guy...poor Guy.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in return for an honest review.
This is the second book/novella in the novella prequels to this new series by Shiloh Walker. I highly recommend that you read all three of the novellas in order because although they follow different characters (tied together by three siblings), they also follow the mystery of disappearance of those characters' mother 15 years ago.
This book is about Jensen, a cop, and Dean, a DA. The nature of their jobs often has them at cross-purposes, but these two have been circling each other for a while (like years) now. Honestly, this book is really about the mom. Yes, the two have a new relationship, but I was amazed at how quickly they settled into that. You could tell this was a novella just in the speed in how quickly that happened. But other than that, I did enjoy this one. I liked both characters. They had great chemistry and were really, really hot in the bedroom...and up against the door...and on the floor. ;o)
There were some interesting turns in the mother's story. Some that are going to have heartbreaking consequences in the two main characters for the final novella. I can't wait to read it.
I love romantic suspense and Shiloh Walker does it really well. While these novellas are pretty light on the suspense story, they hold a great mystery about how it all played out fifteen years ago when the mother disappeared. I'm loving getting to know this small town and can't wait to delve into the full-length novels of the series. But first, the final novella...Chrissie's story...the baby of the family. And Guy...poor Guy.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in return for an honest review.
October 13, 2014
**I received a copy of this book in exchange for an unbiased and honest review**
Review:5 stars
General: I'm a huge fan of Shiloh's paranormal work and happy to read anything from her. This book was no exception. As I've come to expect from her the story was fast paced and attention grabbing, the characters were compelling and the sex was heated. I found myself in love with Jensen. She was a perfect character for my first read in this series. I wasn't aware this was a sequel so there were a few moments where I was lost but I don't think it affected too much as I was able to deduce most of it. The storyline was powerful as sometimes book 2's struggle to live up to the first, since I hadn't read the first I can only say that this was certainly a power packed story. I loved the interactions, especially Jensen and her family life issues. Jensen and Dean (which on a dorky note made me giggle because of Jensen Ackles playing Dean on Supernatural) had a great connection that immediately had me swooning over Dean.
Characters: Jensen- Jensen is a take no nonsense character that is a lot weaker than she appears and it was great. As a cop she has a hard front but underneath she is destroyed from her losses in life. She's smart and determined and full of spunk mixed with the complexity of her inner feelings. I found her a top female lead for me and loved her with Dean.
Dean- Dean took a little for me to fall for but once I did it was a long drop. He's sexy and handsome and chivalrous in a way. He knew all the right buttons to push and things to say.Hs own past caught up to him in his mind more than once and I also liked that as I did with Jensen.
Review:5 stars
General: I'm a huge fan of Shiloh's paranormal work and happy to read anything from her. This book was no exception. As I've come to expect from her the story was fast paced and attention grabbing, the characters were compelling and the sex was heated. I found myself in love with Jensen. She was a perfect character for my first read in this series. I wasn't aware this was a sequel so there were a few moments where I was lost but I don't think it affected too much as I was able to deduce most of it. The storyline was powerful as sometimes book 2's struggle to live up to the first, since I hadn't read the first I can only say that this was certainly a power packed story. I loved the interactions, especially Jensen and her family life issues. Jensen and Dean (which on a dorky note made me giggle because of Jensen Ackles playing Dean on Supernatural) had a great connection that immediately had me swooning over Dean.
Characters: Jensen- Jensen is a take no nonsense character that is a lot weaker than she appears and it was great. As a cop she has a hard front but underneath she is destroyed from her losses in life. She's smart and determined and full of spunk mixed with the complexity of her inner feelings. I found her a top female lead for me and loved her with Dean.
Dean- Dean took a little for me to fall for but once I did it was a long drop. He's sexy and handsome and chivalrous in a way. He knew all the right buttons to push and things to say.Hs own past caught up to him in his mind more than once and I also liked that as I did with Jensen.
September 30, 2014
Ms. Walker does an impressive job of delivering a story worthy of a full-length novel in a novella format – making the reader want more without making them feel cheated. I have not read the previous book in this series and I did not once feel lost. The author presents the pertinent information in such a way that I knew exactly what is going on and I was drawn into the story immediately.
I loved Jensen’s take-charge, no-nonsense attitude. Further, I liked how Dean explains that she needs to be that way as a minority (female) on the force – and that he finds her attitude to be a turn-on was just icing on the cake. As for Dean, he’s down-right yummy. He’s not the in-your-face alpha I enjoy, but make no mistake, he is a MAN. And when Jensen finally stops fighting what she wants, it makes for some steamy sex scenes.
Now without spoiling the book, when the blurb says there’s a shocking discovery that turns her life upside down … well that should be up for understatement of the year. The author might pull her punches in the blurb, but she does not in the book and it makes for an awesome read. I will be stalking Burn for Me (the previous novella) on Amazon so I can grab it on sale because I’m cheap that way and I am so excited that I already have Long for Me. Ms. Walker had made it on my watch list of authors to read and I cannot wait to check out the rest of this series.
I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Reviewed by Angela at Crystal's Many Reviewers!
I loved Jensen’s take-charge, no-nonsense attitude. Further, I liked how Dean explains that she needs to be that way as a minority (female) on the force – and that he finds her attitude to be a turn-on was just icing on the cake. As for Dean, he’s down-right yummy. He’s not the in-your-face alpha I enjoy, but make no mistake, he is a MAN. And when Jensen finally stops fighting what she wants, it makes for some steamy sex scenes.
Now without spoiling the book, when the blurb says there’s a shocking discovery that turns her life upside down … well that should be up for understatement of the year. The author might pull her punches in the blurb, but she does not in the book and it makes for an awesome read. I will be stalking Burn for Me (the previous novella) on Amazon so I can grab it on sale because I’m cheap that way and I am so excited that I already have Long for Me. Ms. Walker had made it on my watch list of authors to read and I cannot wait to check out the rest of this series.
I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Reviewed by Angela at Crystal's Many Reviewers!
May 6, 2014
A cop heroine and a DA hero...Shiloh Walker brought my favorite professions I love to read about and watch in TV shows together as a couple in a fast-paced, emotional and sexy novella.
No one writes sexy love scenes that make you shiver and tingle like Shiloh Walker does. That first scene (against a door, one of my fave love scene settings) was just...so sexy and intense *sigh*
But let's not forget the suspense that goes along with the romance. After all this is a romantic suspense series. Both blended together perfectly and what started in the first novella and came to a cliffhanger-ish climax at the end of it took root in this second one and kept me just as riveted to the pages as the romance did. The end made me cry and I know the next novelaa is going to kill me! And I can't wait!
Memorable Scene:
- Jensen's account of her family's situation and past to Dean in the bar > tears in my eyes
Fave Quotes:
“When a man’s been dying for a taste of something for as long as I have, it’s hard to think straight, especially in a moment like this. I think maybe we should–”
She pressed a finger to his lips. “I think we should stop thinking. I’m tired of it.”
“Jensen—”
“There aren’t enough hours in the night for what I want to do to you,” he murmured, pressing a kiss to her neck, her shoulder. “But that’s not going to stop me from trying.”
No one writes sexy love scenes that make you shiver and tingle like Shiloh Walker does. That first scene (against a door, one of my fave love scene settings) was just...so sexy and intense *sigh*
But let's not forget the suspense that goes along with the romance. After all this is a romantic suspense series. Both blended together perfectly and what started in the first novella and came to a cliffhanger-ish climax at the end of it took root in this second one and kept me just as riveted to the pages as the romance did. The end made me cry and I know the next novelaa is going to kill me! And I can't wait!
Memorable Scene:
- Jensen's account of her family's situation and past to Dean in the bar > tears in my eyes
Fave Quotes:
“When a man’s been dying for a taste of something for as long as I have, it’s hard to think straight, especially in a moment like this. I think maybe we should–”
She pressed a finger to his lips. “I think we should stop thinking. I’m tired of it.”
“Jensen—”
“There aren’t enough hours in the night for what I want to do to you,” he murmured, pressing a kiss to her neck, her shoulder. “But that’s not going to stop me from trying.”
August 10, 2016
Break for Me is the second prequel in Shiloh Walker's Secrets & Shadows series. Although I believe each prequel can be well off on its own, I strongly recommend reading the prequels in order as there is an interconnected storyline that flows through each installment.
These prequels follows three siblings, Tate, Jensen and Chris. Tate's story in the first prequel, Burn for Me gave readers a background of what these siblings have been suffering for 15 years due to the mysterious disappearance of their mother.
In this follow up prequel, Break for Me, Jensen and the police make a discovery that brings more questions than answers for the Bell family. With that, I hope that answers will lie in Chris' story, Long for Me. I am eager to know what happened and hope that the Bell family finds some closure.
Another thing that I ought to mention is the tone of the story which was rather dark and chilling in a sense. There was a definite air of suspense and mystery as well; But, while we have those ingredients brewing, romance is still the forefront and core of the story and that's what I enjoyed most about this story besides the suspense.
Nicely paced with an engrossing plot and a well-matched couple, Break for Me is a read that I happily recommend.
*Received a review copy from the publisher, St. Martin's Press, via Netgalley for an honest review.
These prequels follows three siblings, Tate, Jensen and Chris. Tate's story in the first prequel, Burn for Me gave readers a background of what these siblings have been suffering for 15 years due to the mysterious disappearance of their mother.
In this follow up prequel, Break for Me, Jensen and the police make a discovery that brings more questions than answers for the Bell family. With that, I hope that answers will lie in Chris' story, Long for Me. I am eager to know what happened and hope that the Bell family finds some closure.
Another thing that I ought to mention is the tone of the story which was rather dark and chilling in a sense. There was a definite air of suspense and mystery as well; But, while we have those ingredients brewing, romance is still the forefront and core of the story and that's what I enjoyed most about this story besides the suspense.
Nicely paced with an engrossing plot and a well-matched couple, Break for Me is a read that I happily recommend.
*Received a review copy from the publisher, St. Martin's Press, via Netgalley for an honest review.
April 27, 2014
Loved this novella so much!
I’m a huge fan of Shiloh Walker’s books. She is an auto-buy author for me no matter which genre she is writing. I will say her romantic suspense books are my favorites and her new Secrets & Shadows series is another winner.
Jensen has had to be so strong since her mother disappeared when she was 12. She is such a strong character and wants to protect others from going through what her family suffered when her mom disappeared.
Jensen and Dean had amazing chemistry in this story, even when they had to work with the law differently. I love they had both been attracted to each other from the moment they first saw each other, yet didn’t act on their attraction until Dean learned about Jensen’s past. Shiloh Walker writes super hot love scenes and the passion between Dean and Jensen were smoking hot. There was also tenderness between them and I loved that Dean was there for Jensen when truths from her past came to light.
Break for Me is a novella length story and a very fast-paced read. I enjoyed every single minute of this story and am excited for the future stories in this series.
I’m a huge fan of Shiloh Walker’s books. She is an auto-buy author for me no matter which genre she is writing. I will say her romantic suspense books are my favorites and her new Secrets & Shadows series is another winner.
Jensen has had to be so strong since her mother disappeared when she was 12. She is such a strong character and wants to protect others from going through what her family suffered when her mom disappeared.
Jensen and Dean had amazing chemistry in this story, even when they had to work with the law differently. I love they had both been attracted to each other from the moment they first saw each other, yet didn’t act on their attraction until Dean learned about Jensen’s past. Shiloh Walker writes super hot love scenes and the passion between Dean and Jensen were smoking hot. There was also tenderness between them and I loved that Dean was there for Jensen when truths from her past came to light.
Break for Me is a novella length story and a very fast-paced read. I enjoyed every single minute of this story and am excited for the future stories in this series.
May 7, 2014
I loved the story and I loved the characters, but I had a problem with the switch in POVs. I know that more and more authors are writing dual POVs. I like this writing style less and less. Sometimes, it works and sometimes it doesn’t. I would have liked if we got 1 or 2 chapters of Dean’s POV instead of getting both Dean and Jenson’s. I do not always want to know what the other character is thinking throughout the book. I know this is personal preference and it is only my opinion.
The author did a great job introducing me to Jenson and Dean and having me connect to them. This couple have known each other for a while and kind of had the “game” of “not sure if you like me, but I like you” and vice-versa, but I loved how they came together.
There was romance and mystery in this book. Some revolutions come out about Jenson’s mother who disappeared 15 years ago. The author again did a great job putting everything together in 80 pages.
A copy was provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
The author did a great job introducing me to Jenson and Dean and having me connect to them. This couple have known each other for a while and kind of had the “game” of “not sure if you like me, but I like you” and vice-versa, but I loved how they came together.
There was romance and mystery in this book. Some revolutions come out about Jenson’s mother who disappeared 15 years ago. The author again did a great job putting everything together in 80 pages.
A copy was provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
November 11, 2016
4-1/2 stars.
This might be my favorite of the whole series. Break for Me features Jensen, who is the sister of Tate from Burn for Me . She's a detective who falls for DA, Dean West. This story packs a punch in just 80 pages, and we have a lot going on here, the least of which is the burning hot chemistry between Jensen and Dean. They have to work together on a case (that I won't spoil here but now it all makes sense to me since I read the series out of order) and figure out if their heat is enough for a forever. Really enjoyed this one!
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For more reviews and bookish talk, visit our blog at Pretty Sassy Cool
This might be my favorite of the whole series. Break for Me features Jensen, who is the sister of Tate from Burn for Me . She's a detective who falls for DA, Dean West. This story packs a punch in just 80 pages, and we have a lot going on here, the least of which is the burning hot chemistry between Jensen and Dean. They have to work together on a case (that I won't spoil here but now it all makes sense to me since I read the series out of order) and figure out if their heat is enough for a forever. Really enjoyed this one!
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For more reviews and bookish talk, visit our blog at Pretty Sassy Cool
May 4, 2014
EXCELLENT! You know it's an incredible read when you hear yourself speak out loud, "Oh My, Oh My!" Shiloh is truly one of the most accurate and gritty romantic suspense authors. She knocks this one out of the park.
We have a family that has suffered for the past 15 years the loss of their mother. She went missing after an argument with her husband and there has been no sign of her since. Jensen is the eldest daughter and also a cop.
Dean, the DA is amazing at his job and he also has a liking for Jensen.
Dean interrupts the families get together at the local bar. He thinks Jensen is upset about a case. The family all give him the "you're an ass" and the brother wants to take him out. Jensen explains to him what the family is going through. He leaves with his tail between his legs feeling like an ass.
On the way home Jensen sees Dean on his steps and confronts him. Things escalate from there.
Really, really fine writing. Can't wait for more.
We have a family that has suffered for the past 15 years the loss of their mother. She went missing after an argument with her husband and there has been no sign of her since. Jensen is the eldest daughter and also a cop.
Dean, the DA is amazing at his job and he also has a liking for Jensen.
Dean interrupts the families get together at the local bar. He thinks Jensen is upset about a case. The family all give him the "you're an ass" and the brother wants to take him out. Jensen explains to him what the family is going through. He leaves with his tail between his legs feeling like an ass.
On the way home Jensen sees Dean on his steps and confronts him. Things escalate from there.
Really, really fine writing. Can't wait for more.
August 18, 2014
Jensen Bell, Tate’s middle sister, is a detective. She’s chosen this life as she wants to protect other families and children from the loss that her own experienced when her mother disappeared. Like Tate, she’s also a bit broken inside, and love and trust for a partner isn’t something she knows.
But Jensen’s lady bits are very aware of the new district attorney Dean West, who is drool worthy. As Shiloh Walker describes him with his dreads, powerful musculature, and intelligence, I became as entranced as Jensen.
Plus, and this is a huge plus, it seems like Dean is a really good guy. Yes, he’s a bit broken inside too, but if he and Jensen can admit to their attraction. Well, who knows what will happen.
Once again, a bit more about their mother is revealed and Walker also reveals more about the community and some of the other characters. I’ll admit that a few make the hair on my back stand up, so I’ll be interested to see what lies ahead.
But Jensen’s lady bits are very aware of the new district attorney Dean West, who is drool worthy. As Shiloh Walker describes him with his dreads, powerful musculature, and intelligence, I became as entranced as Jensen.
Plus, and this is a huge plus, it seems like Dean is a really good guy. Yes, he’s a bit broken inside too, but if he and Jensen can admit to their attraction. Well, who knows what will happen.
Once again, a bit more about their mother is revealed and Walker also reveals more about the community and some of the other characters. I’ll admit that a few make the hair on my back stand up, so I’ll be interested to see what lies ahead.
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