Hidden

McKenzie Ridge #2

by Stephanie St. Klaire

Firefighter Colton Sparks is beautiful, brawny, and lonely? Colton, a die-hard romantic, is looking for a Hallmark worthy happily ever after, but finding Mrs. Right has been as fruitful as playing the lottery. It’s no secret that he dreams of white picket fences, finding love, and having a family. He has the white picket fence, he just needs her.

He’s every woman’s dream; they just aren’t his. A total man’s man with testosterone driven tendencies smothered in a tough guy exterior, he has a soft spot…animals. He understands being the one nobody wants, so he rescues animals that aren’t perfect to the rest of the world.
When a beautiful woman comes to town, he thinks he has found her. Megan Johnson is stunning with a regal quality that doesn’t live in small mountain towns, and a mystery that has him intrigued. She also happens to be his neighbor.

Megan thought McKenzie Ridge was the perfect place to settle, for now. It was polar opposite of the glamorous life she abruptly abandoned. Small town living was anything but simple, it was damn hard! Gone were her days of fancy make up, and designer clothes, here were the days of flannel, fur lined boots, and becoming Megan Johnson.

Things start to heat up, and fall into place with the handsome firefighter next door, when her past flashes its depraved and wrathful face. Can she stay in McKenzie and fight her demons, or will her secrets leave her alone and on the run?

Is there a happily ever for Colton and Megan, or is love a deadly game of chance?

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

312 pages, Paperback

First published June 22, 2016

About the author

About Stephanie St. Klaire

USA Today Best-Selling Author Stephanie St. Klaire is multifaceted romance writer that has found her calling making readers bite their nails in suspense and hang on the edge of their seats with baited breath, as they wait for the next startling mystery to be unveiled.

Whether she’s off the grid hunting her diabolical killer’s next victim or plotting gritty crime thrillers that will leave you questioning her sanity, she always brings the chaos and the heat. (Watch yourself or you just might end up a character in one of her stories!)

Equal parts Hallmark and Criminal Minds, SSK balances her dark side by writing rom-com as her alter ego Stephie Klaire.

The Pacific Northwest native currently resides in Portland, Oregon with her husband, five children, and two ferocious lap dogs— where every day is Taco Tuesday and Christmas isn’t just a season... it’s a state of mind.


Follow Stephanie St. Klaire on Social media to learn more about her, and to keep up with her work.

Website: www.stephaniestklaire.com
Newsletter: www.stephaniestklaire.com/newsletter
Facebook page: http://bit.ly/2l27QeK
Facebook profile: http://bit.ly/2kdNBa1
Twitter: https://twitter.com/StephStKlaire
Instagram: http://bit.ly/2lxwtgn
BookBub Author Page: http://bit.ly/2kuPnV5
Goodreads: http://bit.ly/1UccbW6

Reviews

[Pam · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hidden is Stephanie's second book in the McKenzie Ridge series & her second published book. Colton is a firefighter & is hot, sexy & determined. One way or another, he is going to get to know Megan, even if only as friends. Megan has only been in town for a few months but loves the town. No one knows what brought her into town but they all like her even though they sense she has secrets.

It really feels like Stephanie is a seasoned, established author rather than just publishing her second book. Her writing style is descriptive & well established. The plot is easy to follow with twists, turns & surprises to keep you on your toes. There is a intense, sexy, hot chemistry between Megan & Colton that defies common sense with the secrets Megan holds. These characters are complex & driven. Stephanie has a way of developing the main characters & supporting cast that enables you to see the friendship, concern & love they have for each other. I was drawn into the plot right from the beginning & couldn't put it down until the end. I hate the wait until Book 3!!

I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest opinion.

[Lucy Berson · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC given for honest review

This was the 2nd book in the McKenzie Ridge Series. I was looking forward to this book as soon as I finished Rescued. I was not disappointed!!!! I fell in love immediately with Colton Sparks from the beginning. I absolutely love how this entire town of very close friends always comes together. You fall I love right along with Colton and Megan.

I am looking forward to see where Blake and Jessie end up!!!!!!

Well done Stephanie St. Klaire, looking forward to see who is next!!!!!

[Mel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it......

This is book 2 in the McKenzie Ridge series and follows the story of Colton and Megan.

Colton Sparks is one of the towns firefighters and is easy on the eyes. He has a heart of gold and a protective streak a mile long. When he meets Megan and her nephew Jax protection is high on his list, along with getting to know the gorgeous neighbour and her adorable nephew.

Megan is new to town, only been here a few months, and is still trying to find her place. Meeting Colton, the gorgeous firefighter, was not in her plans. When strange things start happening she tries to separate herself from Colton and the town to protect them.

Can Colton and Megan be together while fighting demons from her past or will events dictate her life and make her run, leaving Colton and the town far behind?

This book was suspenseful, beautiful and addictive. I couldn't put it down until I had finished reading it. I loved the dynamics not just between Colton and Megan but with all the secondary characters too. The old biddies and the other people in their group of friends.

I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK to people who love romance, action and who love to guess about the unknown factors. This book has it all.

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hidden is the second novel in the McKenzie Ridge series written by Stephanie St. Klaire. Rescued was the first novel in the series which was amazing, but Hidden is even better. I don’t know if it is because as a reader we have met many of the characters and fallen in love with them already, but I absolutely loved Hidden. Colton is such a hot man with a sensitive side that speaks to every woman. There is just enough mystery to keep the readers interested as well. While being the second book in the series, this novel can be read as a standalone novel.
Hidden has a very interesting plot. Stephanie did a spectacular job of keeping the readers interested while giving them bits and pieces of imperative information to help them put the pieces of the puzzle together. I have to say this plot was one of the more interesting plots that I have read in a while. I loved the mystery of this book. I knew right away that Megan had more going on than anyone realized, but I didn’t expect some of the events that transpired. I love when a book catches me off guard and throws some curves in my way.
The main character Megan is developed nicely. She has a long journey ahead of her at the start of the book and I love that readers were able to go on the journey with her. Colton develops a bit as well, but his main job in the book is to act as a catalyst for Megan to do some developing herself. I love their interactions with each other. Colton is one of my new book boyfriends for sure. He is described as attractive, but that is not what made me fall for him. He had me at animals. So as to not reveal too much, I will leave it at that. He melts my heart.
There is plenty of heat in this book. Stephanie sure knows how to heat a room up and make a girl blush. The interactions between characters is wonderful. I love how she allows the characters to develop and bond organically. I hate it when authors force the heat in books and rush the romance. Stephanie does not do this, which leads to a sweet yet spicy romance story. I also love all the humor in the book. All of her characters are funny and love to have a good time. I really felt like I was reading about down to earth people who could be friends of mine.
Overall, I absolutely loved Hidden. Stephanie St. Klaire is an author to look out for. She has a unique take on romance novels while throwing in a dash of mystery and action to give a girl everything she needs in a book. Her characters are relatable and very likeable. Stephanie transports you into her world and allows you to imagine you are a part of her tight nit group of characters. I would and have already recommended this book to others!
Ratings:
Plots: 5/5
Characters:5/5
Heat:5/5
Writing Style:5/5
Overall:5/5

[Lola Kyle · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an advance reader copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

This gift of gab. That's how the writer describes her talent. I agree. The playful banter and the ability to relate to the characters she's shared with us has been a breathe of fresh air. Granted I did have a hard time thinking that anyone one man is that perfect. I have relished in the fact that in this world it did exist. Even more impressed with the plot and the fact that there was no insta love. This author has won me over even more than she did with rescued. Because of the book being too short for my liking. I wont go into much detail about the story line. I rather leave that pleasure up to you. However! I will say that this was a well written book. The characters developed and matured before your eyes. You couldn't help but laugh at Rambo the guardian rooster and Doug the cross eyed goat. I mean it. Freaking hilarious! I do declare that Stephanie St.Klaire has written another amazing book.

[Elisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sizzling, Sexy, Spectacular, Sweet, Seduction and a wonderful story to.

Colton and Megan

The first time he saw her, he new she was the one, he also new he would wait forever for her.

I think what I love most about Stephanie's books it's not just the happy endings it's so much more, these stories are written with heart, the love between everyone in McKenzie Ridge is pure and unconditional, no matter what, they take care of their own and that's something special, what's more the author makes you believe it, you become part of the town as you read you become family, so with every new story from McKenzie Ridge it will always be like coming home.

I love the added mystery, thriller aspect to the scorching, steamy romance.

[Sallie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received this book as an ARC for an honest review.
You get a glimpse at the end of the first book of the chance encounter of Colton and Megan. In book two see very quickly that Megan is hiding something huge. She's taking care of her nephew after losing her sister. You got to admire her for that even if you want to smack some sense in her for keeping Colton at an arm's length. She fights him off at every turn but Colton is one hot firefighter determined to get the girl. It's full of suspense and dangles a carrot in you face with guesses of what happened in Megan's past. The ending with shock you all. You don't see the train wreck until it hits. Will Colton be able to save the girl everyone in McKenzie Ridge has fallen for?

[Jill · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second in the series. This story deals with Colton and Megan. Colton is one of the firefighters and longing to find the one he is meant to be with. Megan is his neighbor whom he rescues one night and brings home to his cast of animal characters. she isn't too sure of his animals. she fights her feelings for Colton (first female I wanted to knock upside the head). Megan has secrets and doesn't want to put Colton or the friends (who have become family) lives at risk. This is a great follow up to Rescued (which if you haven't read yet, you should). You fall in love with the cast of characters. I loved the whole book.

[Pamela Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC for an honest review. This is the second book of five about McKenzie Ridge and is as romantic as the first. This books highlights the romance of Colton and Megan and has everything you could want to read about in a book. Great job Stephanie St, Klaire, you rock McKenzie Ridge. Can not wait for the next books in this series.

[Wendy Hodges · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review Hidden by Stephanie StKlaire

started 21/06/16
finished 22/06/16

5*
Arc copy for an honest review.

I love this group of amazing characters, all working in Fire, Police or Ambulance departments. Linked together through work, friendship and community. They are loyal and loving, supportive of each other and those around them. Each have their strengths and insecurities, problems or difficulties from their backgrounds. They have taken newbie “Megan” into their group and friendship, an attraction is building between Colten and her, but she is fighting it and trying to keep her past a secret. Colten’s deep love of animals, especially damaged ones starts to break down her barriers and bring them closer together.
The animals bond with Megan and little Jax, but Duke takes it on himself to be her protector, almost as though he senses she needs one. With her past trying to catch up this story starts taking a few twists and an unexpected turn. A hidden mystery, strange happenings, threats and fear start to grow. Violent and sexual content in this tension building story, but there is also some fun and laughter. Great interaction with the animals that I loved, they are each brilliant characters on there own even with their different handicaps. But they really help to make this book special, and show what an amazing man Colten is, having overcome is own problems and grown past them.
This book is an interesting mix of mystery, romance and horror, I often found myself tense and on edge sensing that something unpleasant was coming and fearful of what that would mean. It is told in alternating characters, fast paced and flows smoothly through the chapters. I love the almost fierce loyalty the whole community shows to those they take on as their own, standing up to whatever forces try to take them away or threaten the town. This is a great follow on to Rescue the first book in this MacKenzie Ridge series and I look forward to reading more in the future.

[Beth · Rating 5 out of 5]

BOOK REVIEW: Hidden
BOOK SERIES: A McKenzie Ridge Novel #2
AUTHOR: Stephanie St. Klaire
GENRE: Contemporary Romance
PUBLICATION DATE: June 30, 2016
CLIFF HANGER: No

5 Stars

SYNOPSIS:
Firefighter Colton Sparks is beautiful, brawny, and lonely. A total man’s man with testosterone driven tendencies smothered in a tough guy exterior.

He’s every woman’s dream; they just aren’t his. A die-hard romantic, Colton is looking for a Hallmark happily ever after, but finding Mrs. Right has been as fruitful as playing the lottery. It’s no secret that he dreams of white picket fences, finding love, and having a family. He has the white picket fence…he just needs her.

When a beautiful woman comes to town, he begins to wonder if he has finally found her? Megan Johnson is stunning with a regal quality that doesn’t live in small mountain towns, and a mystery that has him intrigued. She also happens to be his neighbor.

Megan thought McKenzie Ridge was the perfect place to settle…for now. It was the polar opposite of the glamorous life she abruptly abandoned. Small town living was anything but simple; it was damned hard! Gone were her days of fancy make-up, and designer clothes. Here were the days of flannel, fur lined boots, and becoming Megan Johnson.

As things start to heat up and fall into place with the handsome firefighter next door, her past flashes its depraved and wrathful face. Can she stay in McKenzie and fight her demons, or will her secrets leave her alone and on the run?

Is there a happily ever after for Colton and Megan, or is love a deadly game of chance?

MY THOUGHTS:
I loved this book! It had it all! A beautiful love story, humor, suspense, action, intrigue, secrets, and a great cast of secondary characters including a host of rescued pets with loads of personality!

The synopsis sets up the story line very well so I am not going to give you any more! This book had me from the start and I didn’t want to put it down. It had a lot of feels to it and you were rooting for the charters through their trials and tribulations.

Colton Sparks

Colton is my new book boyfriend! I adore him! He is a man's man, but he is so sweet and caring, and he has a past that breaks your heart. Megan is a great heroine and she has secrets that she is keeping and she wears the worry on her beautiful face. Colton reads her very well and he gives her time to reveal her secrets to him without pushing her.

Megan Johnson

I love the town of McKenzie Ridge and the author paints a great picture so you can see the scenes unfold. The cast of secondary characters’ returns and they build on the first book. There are new characters introduced as well. You could read this as a standalone, but it’s better to read Rescued first for the backstory.

There is so much I want to tell you, but I don’t want to give any spoilers away because you really need to read this great new series! I highly recommend this book!

ARC kindly provided by the author for an honest review.

[SOMDReigel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hidden is the second book in the McKenzie Ridge series featuring a small town mountain community set in Oregon. It can be read as a standalone but the series has recurring characters so I would recommend starting with Rescued, book one. Hidden is a romantic suspense full of danger, twists, secrets, and steamy chemistry. Hidden is the love story of Colton, a firefighter and Megan, the owner of a florist/coffee shop. Megan is new to the small town and has secrets. Colton is drawn to her and determined to help while he doesn’t really know what she’s hiding. Megan wants to protect him and her new friends by keeping them at a distance. There is fun banter between the characters and some wonderful animal friends add to the charm. All the characters are well developed and interesting. The characters grow within the plot, friendships deepen, and St. Klaire lets relationships and love happen realistically. This is St. Klaire’s second published book and proves that there’s a bright writing future in store for her.
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest opinion. (NOTE: I'm buying the eBook to support the author).

[Margaret Neal · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hidden is the second book in Stephanie St Klaire's McKenzie Ridge series. I have been impatiently waiting to read this book since finishing Rescued, and I wasn't disappointed. This time around we get to watch Colton, a McKenzie Ridge fire fighter and Megan, the "new girl in town" as they find themselves drawn to each other. The chemistry between them is off the charts, and melt your panties HOT.
When Megan's past refuses to stay hidden, the close knit group of friends she has come to know and love as if they were her real family come to the rescue to save one of their own.
Stephanie has pulled another 5 star story out of her hat. This book grabs your attention right from the start and doesn't let go. I love, love, LOVED IT.

[Kris Woltzen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC of this book for a honest review. Wow, this book is amazing lots of romance,secrets,adventure...love love love. I am in love with Mckenzie series can't wait for the next one. Colons and Meg's story is great love that instant attraction and need to protect each other. I don't like to give away spoilers in my reviews but I will say u will not be disappointed at anything in this book. Another great book Stephanie

[Kelly ~Booktrovert~ · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC given for honest review.. that being said..


This is book 2 in the McKenzie Ridge series and follows the story of Colton and Megan.

When I read the first book in the series (Rescued) I thought nothing would be able to top it. Boy was I wrong.

Hidden is one of those books that once you start reading you can't put it down. I will definitely be going back for seconds.

[Diane Carter · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hidden definitely hits the mark as the follow up book to Rescued. It's a good thing Colton is a firefighter with all the Sparks and heat he and Megan have going.

Lots of laughs and just a great romance in this book.

[Tina Todd shobe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hidden is the 2nd book in the McKenzie Ridge Series. I have been counting down the days for the release of this book as soon as I finished Rescued, the first book in the series.

The author has a way of pulling you into the book that has you anxiously turning pages and loosing sleep to finish it and when you've finished you're actually let down because you never wanted it to end.

Colton is everyone's dream guy...hot firefighter who is a natural caretaker. You can tell that right from the beginning when you meet his horde of animals.

Megan has moved to McKenzie Ridge with her nephew. The attraction between Colton and Megan is instant and grows stronger by the day. Megan does her best to fight that attraction because she knows it could mean danger and heartache for Colton.

This book has it all, the characters are great, there is chemistry, there is intrigue, there is danger, there is seriously some heart warming moments.

I consider this book an absolute must read! I can't wait for the next book in this series!

Stephanie St. Klaire I love the way you write and draw this readers into your books!

[Amber - TBR Book Blog · Rating 5 out of 5]

First of all Colton is a firefighter who loves animals! That’s my dream! Who doesn’t love a firefighter firstly; yet one who loves animals?? I certainly love them! So Colton already holds a special place for me… Onto the review...

Megan isn’t looking for a relationship. She’s just trying to live her life, run her business and take care of her infant nephew. But Colton just pushes his way in and makes a place for himself in her heart.

Megan’s life is more than meets the eye. She is coming to McKenzie Ridge after living the busy life in the big city. She’s ready to settle down in a small, quiet town where no one knows her. Colton knows there is more to Megan than she’s saying and he’s bound and determined to show Megan she’s safe with him and McKenzie Ridge.

I LOVE this series and can’t wait for Blake’s story. I just know it’s going to be a doozy!

[Dayanara RQ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful book! It had me hooked from the very beginning. This story is full of tender care, suspense, undisputed dangerous drama, plenty of sizzling passion and full of a wonderful love story that is going to capture you completely!
Colton oh Colton is so tender and passionate and so very alpha protecting what he loves and Megan is so brave, caring and unique in so many ways that makes her the perfect heroine! The friendship and devotion between all of them is heart warming!
Really an amazing book the writing style and the story behind by Stephanie St. Klaire is phenomenal. Seriously a great book!

[Patty Montoro · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a wonderful series. The first word when I think of Colton is devotion. He is totally devoted to Megan. Colton is utterly swoon worthy hero: smart, funny, devoted and flirty. This story is perfect mix of romance and suspense. Chemistry between Colton and Megan stole my heart. I recommend this series to anyone who loves romantic suspense and irresistible secondary characters. I am hoping that Jessie gets her story next !!!!

[Kathy Dunn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Megan Johnson is a newcomer to McKenzie Ridge and sparks start flying with her and firefighter Colton Sparks. And who can resist a hunky guy who is romantic and loves animals?
But not is all it seems with Megan. Who is she and what is she hiding? Thing quickly get tense in the town and the townspeople quickly come to the aid of the beautiful new resident.
Stephanie has written another great book and I can’t wait to read the next one in the series!

[Dayanara Rosado quezada · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful book! It had me hooked from the very beginning, this story is full of tender, suspense, undisputed dangerous drama, plenty of sizzling passion and full of a wonderful love story. Colton is so tender and passionate and so very alpha protecting what he loves and Megan's is brave and unique in so many ways.
Really an amazing book the writing style and the story behind is phenomenal. SERIOUSLY GREAT BOOK!

[Chelsea Hudgens · Rating 5 out of 5]

wowwie. Steph did it again. First with Rescued and now with Hidden. so epic, I love it. was given an arc for review and it was just wow. loved it and no words express how much I loved this story. you who haven't read Rescued the first in the series needs to get it and fall in love with it because you won't regret it. Hidden is still up for preorder so go get it too. loved every moment of it xo

[Mackenzie Bibliophile · Rating 5 out of 5]

A freaking amazing follow up for Stephanie and the McKenzie Ridge series, from the very first page I was taken under the waves that are Colton and Megan and their story. Each chapter gave just a hint of what was to come, holding a heavenly mix of love, friendship, loyalty, family and danger. The ominous black cloud of the unknown was an amazing driving force for this story. The time passed quickly without feeling rushed. I was elated for the quick pace because I couldn’t put the dang book down. It didn’t matter what I was doing the book seemed to creep into my hand so that I could read just one more chapter. My motto from the moment I began reading this, just one more chapter, just one more chapter and ill set it down. Never worked but I tried.

Returning to the McKenzie Ridge gang was much anticipated. Reading Hidden was like visiting with old friends. Stephanie makes the reader feel as though they are a part of story, she writes real characters that could truly be found in a little mountain down in the middle of nowhere and it makes me want to cross country trip until I find one. Each and everyone one of these characters has his or her own story that is intertwined within the current plot, leading the reader to be begging for more! Stephanie writes in a way that you are able to be in each and every character’s head at any moment flawlessly. Many times this style of writing can be confusing and easily muddled, but not with Hidden. The point is view does change rapidly at times however it is always clear who is speaking, and it makes the story flow in a smoother path. Along with giving the reader a deeper insight into the story along the way.

Megan and Colton provide a sweet romance with a side of danger that had me at the edge of seat. Eagerly wanting to know the secret. I needed it and it led me to be unable to put the book down for any real period of time. Hidden is amazing read for anyone that loves mystery mixed a heavy hand of romance all wrapped up in a tight knit family. These characters are all a family to each other which brings something different to this series that others lack, there is more to it that boy meet girl and falls in love. Real love resides in these pages, true love between a group of people that would do anything to keep their family safe and happy. And Grandma Lou.. this old woman is a treasure and I love her.

With that said let me take a moment to talk about Colton Sparks… Holy Hell! I can’t even with this man. He is so perfect that even using the word perfect does not do him justice. Everything about this man is what every girl dreams of. A sexy fireman charming with a killer smile and the biggest heart you could imagine. And his animal gang! Don’t get me started on this furry/ feathery fleet. Read this book to understand why I was in love with him and his crew before the first chapter was done. I wasn’t instantly a goner for this novel and the people within its pages. True winner with this read, FIVE huge shiny stars for Hidden. Stamp of approval from me!!
-Mackenzie

[Jazmyne [Ramblings of a Bookworm] · Rating 4 out of 5]

“Sam decided to be the voice of reason on this one and offered her two cents, “Honey, he has waited his whole life for what he wants, he’ll wait for you if you need more time.”

Ever since Rescued I have been intrigued by Colton. Within the first 5 pages of Hidden I was IN LOVE. Colton is a man’s man, firefighter and protector, but he is also not afraid to wait for what he wants. “That was Colton Sparks, genuine to a fault, and a heart with more love to give than any one person deserved.” He actually reminds me a little of Deacon (Kristen Ashley), who alludes to the fact that a real man knows what he wants and waits until he finds it.

Megan lives next door to Colton and can sense the attraction that lies between them. Dealing with her own struggles, and raising a young boy, she doesn’t have time to sustain a relationship with any man. Especially a man like Colton. As their paths begin to cross, she finds herself in an odd friendship with him and his brood of animals.

What I enjoyed most about this book was the mix of romance, funny dialogue ( bean dip! ), mystery, and action. Although the book is centered around Colton & Megan, we get to see different sides to many of the characters introduced in Rescued, as well as solving the mystery integrated into Megan’s story.

The only real issue I had within the story was some of the action revolving around the mystery. That sounds vague, I know, but I don’t want to give a lot away. What I mean here is that some of the mystery seemed to resolve a little too quickly in some parts. This is, of course, more of a personal preference. The mystery, though, WAS resolved, and in a way that leads to new and promising storylines …

I honestly can’t wait for the next book because I need to know what happens between a couple of characters … you’ll know what I mean and you’ll be impatiently waiting too!

[Kristy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hidden was book 2 in the McKenzie Ridge series, and a great story by Stephanie St. Klaire. In this book you get to know Colton, a firefighter in town, and the new florist, Megan. Colton was a sweetheart and willing to fall right into a relationship with Megan, who tried to push him away. Throw in the suspense element, and you've got a engaging story.

[Clare Baird · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed reading Ms St. Klaire's second book. The characters seem real and the story line kept you coming back for more. This book had everything; love, drama, suspense, laughter and a menagerie of animals you fall in love with.
Looking forward to her next installment on the mountain.

[Jaymie · Rating 4 out of 5]

*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie in exchange for a fair and honest review. ***

Sexy Firefighter Colton Sparks is the picket fence, forever kind of guy. Once a child of the system, he's become a man who craves a family. With a soft heart for injured and abandoned animals, he is quick to offer a home to those who don't have one. From the moment he first meets his new neighbor at Dawson and Sam's wedding he decides he needs to know her better.

Megan Johnson is new to McKenzie Ridge. Escaping from her past, she and her young nephew, Jax, moved to this town in hopes of finding peace and simplicity. With her new shop, Blooming Grounds, and the new friends she's making, not to mention her gorgeous neighbor, Colton, Megan starts to think she's safe, at least for now.

Unable to fight their attraction, even if they truly wanted to, things start heating up between Colton and Megan and Colton begins spending as much time as possible with Megan and Jax. As the couple's relationship progresses, Colton and his friends start to wonder what secrets Megan is carrying and how they'll be able to help. Now Megan's troubles may have followed her to McKenzie Ridge.

Will Colton and Megan have a chance at Happily Ever After?

I enjoyed Hidden, I liked both Megan and Colton and thought they made a good couple. It's nice to read a book these days where the man is actually interested in having a relationship with the woman from the very beginning. There wasn't a bunch of angst centered around beginning a relationship and that was a plus.

I did have a little trouble with the author having that many characters in the book and keeping them straight (I did not read the first book). I definitely think I would have benefited from reading the first book, Rescued, to get more background on the characters.

All in all, Hidden was an enjoyable read. It was a sweet and steamy Romance, with action and suspense.

4 Stars!

[Anna Hartt · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hidden is the second book in the McKenzie Ridge series. It can be read as a standalone book and is not dependent on reading the first book.

This book had me laughing from the first page. I can see Megan walking and being attacked by geese all because she has a bag of stale break hanging from her pocket. Colton Sparks is an animal lover and has a lot of pets. The duck and geese just wanted a treat. Colton is also a very handsome firefighter. Colton needed to clean up and dress a nasty wound on her arm from a branch. Her nephew Jax was very happy to sit help Colton fed the geese and one duck.

Megan Johnson is the florist and barista in the town. Her sister passed away in a car accident and that is why she has custody of Jax. She was looking for a simple life and has found it in McKenzie Ridge. Megan is in charge of the Holiday Fair. Megan loves to do fund raising. There is an immediate attraction between Colton and Megan. Unfortunately, it appears that Megan is hiding something. She feels like she is being watched. She has had a flat tire and no cell service. She is not sure and is beginning to panic. Afraid that she is going to have to leave the town and man that she is falling in love with.

This is an excellent book with some twists and turns that are not expected. It is interesting and keeps you attached. A definite high recommendation for this book. It is very well written and I have enjoyed every word. I am looking forward to book three of this series!
I received an eBook copy from the publisher for the purpose of an honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own.

[Yomari · Rating 5 out of 5]

The second book on the McKenzie Ridge Series, but I'm sure won't be the last. Loved Rescued, love Hidden, and I'm seriously considering finding a place like McKenzie Ridge to move to. Like Rescued, this book has great characters, atmosphere and plot. Colton Sparks, firefighter from Mckenzie Ridge, is tired from being a bachelor and is ready to start the next chapter. But there is just one person who spikes his interest: new neighbor Megan Johnson. Megan's move and life in McKenzie is surrounded by a halo of uncertainty and intrigue. Nobody knows about her life before moving to McKenzie, but they welcomed her as one of their own. Megan is in a complicated situation, so she tries unsuccessfully to avoid the growing attraction both Colton and her are experiencing. When her past catches up with her, will she be able to keep safe everyone who's dear to her heart? Can they have what they both desperately need? If you like your stories sweet, with some steam and an intriguing plot, the McKenzie Series is for you. Even though is the second book, can be read as a standalone, but, trust me, you're gonna want to read Rescued.