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Griffin Force #6
Second Guess
He let his guard down for a second. And now it’s going to cost him.
The most wanted terrorist in the world has finally been captured and Elliot Burke is escorting him to an undisclosed location---until their plane is hijacked. Elliot's mission quickly becomes staying alive until Griffin Force can find him.
Landing in Syria, he's faced with a new threat---someone who wants to take over the terrorist organization Elliot has spent years trying to dismantle. In the middle of the most dangerous operation of his life, he meets a mysterious woman named Eden who seems familiar to him somehow. He instinctively trusts her, but soon realizes he shouldn't have. She has her own agenda, one that doesn't include him.
The situation turns deadly, however, and Eden and Elliot must work together to stop a devastating escalation to the war on terror---one that could tip the balance of power in the wrong direction. An unexpected flare of attraction burns bright between them, and battling enemy forces side by side fans the flame, but lives are on the line and sacrifices must be made. Can they both survive what’s ahead?
The most wanted terrorist in the world has finally been captured and Elliot Burke is escorting him to an undisclosed location---until their plane is hijacked. Elliot's mission quickly becomes staying alive until Griffin Force can find him.
Landing in Syria, he's faced with a new threat---someone who wants to take over the terrorist organization Elliot has spent years trying to dismantle. In the middle of the most dangerous operation of his life, he meets a mysterious woman named Eden who seems familiar to him somehow. He instinctively trusts her, but soon realizes he shouldn't have. She has her own agenda, one that doesn't include him.
The situation turns deadly, however, and Eden and Elliot must work together to stop a devastating escalation to the war on terror---one that could tip the balance of power in the wrong direction. An unexpected flare of attraction burns bright between them, and battling enemy forces side by side fans the flame, but lives are on the line and sacrifices must be made. Can they both survive what’s ahead?
254 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 8, 2024
13 people are currently reading
16 people want to read
About the author
Julie Coulter Bellon
47 books590 followersAfter reading every Nancy Drew, Trixie Belden, and Hardy Boys book her elementary school library had, Julie Coulter Bellon knew from a young age she wanted to write books and be a published author someday. That dream came true and she is now the author of thirty romantic suspense novels and two children's books. One nightmare that also came true was that she once tripped up the stairs going on stage to accept a book award and she thinks about that moment more often than she should.
Julie loves to travel and her favorite cities she's visited so far are probably Athens, Paris, Ottawa, and London. She is a former journalist and podcast host of Authors Off the Page. She loves to read, write, teach, watch Hawaii Five-O reruns, and eat Canadian chocolate. Not necessarily in that order.
If you'd like to be the first to hear about Julie's new projects and receive a free book, you can sign up to be part of her VIP Readers Group at juliebellon DOT com
Julie loves to travel and her favorite cities she's visited so far are probably Athens, Paris, Ottawa, and London. She is a former journalist and podcast host of Authors Off the Page. She loves to read, write, teach, watch Hawaii Five-O reruns, and eat Canadian chocolate. Not necessarily in that order.
If you'd like to be the first to hear about Julie's new projects and receive a free book, you can sign up to be part of her VIP Readers Group at juliebellon DOT com
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
March 7, 2024
This author never fails to amaze me! The Griffin Force series gives me so much anxiety and takes my breath away, with each book’s heart-stopping action, daring characters, impossible situations, and dangerous missions. Yet each book also has a romantic angle as well, even amidst all the intensity. And Second Guess is no different.
Starting off with a huge bang, Elliot finds himself in the most perilous position and a series of surprising events lands him with Eden. I loved watching all the different groups come together to try and take down an evil organization, but (if you know me) I especially enjoyed watching a bud of romance blossom throughout the uncertainty.
The one thing I admire the most about this task force is the strengths and weaknesses each character possesses and the way they are able to complement each other to get a job done. They’re more than co-workers–they’re family.
While this book could stand alone, I would recommend reading the series in order so the full picture is painted in order. A big thank you to the author for the review copy.
Content: some violence/death/injuries; light romance
*I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*
Starting off with a huge bang, Elliot finds himself in the most perilous position and a series of surprising events lands him with Eden. I loved watching all the different groups come together to try and take down an evil organization, but (if you know me) I especially enjoyed watching a bud of romance blossom throughout the uncertainty.
The one thing I admire the most about this task force is the strengths and weaknesses each character possesses and the way they are able to complement each other to get a job done. They’re more than co-workers–they’re family.
While this book could stand alone, I would recommend reading the series in order so the full picture is painted in order. A big thank you to the author for the review copy.
Content: some violence/death/injuries; light romance
*I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*
March 16, 2024
Another page turner in the Griffin Force series by Julie Coulter Bellon! And let me tell you that it did not disappoint in any way! I recently listened to the audiobooks of the first 5 books of this series and powered through them because they were so good! I jumped from one to the next to the next in anticipation of this newest book being released. Seriously, these characters are what I love about reading books and suspense books! I love when characters carry over in series. That when we've come to know them and like the character, that it's not instantly over seeing them when their story ends. And I love watching characters work together, bringing their strengths and weaknesses to the table to solve problems. Especially high stakes problems. And the Griffin Force doesn't leave anyone behind. They have your back!
I was so happy to know that this book was going to feature Elliot! I've watched him in the background of the other books and was so hopeful that us readers would soon be able to learn more about him and see him shine in his element. And shine he does! Elliot starts his book out as a prisoner and being used as a doctor to care for the enemy that Griffin Force has been hunting. The stakes are high if he doesn't save the man, but they're even higher if he does. So it's really a no-win situation for him.
Enter Eden, a nurse, who is more than what she seems. She and Elliot are caught up in a deadly mission together and they have to learn to rely on each other if they're going to survive. But secrets can be deadly as well.
So many great twists and turns that had me holding on for the ride and possibly holding my breath off and on! Honestly! I'd be reading along and find I was holding my breath and had to remind myself to breath while turning the pages. Hahaha! I was just that absorbed in it all.
Oh and you're going to love the sweet romance throughout the story. *Happy Sigh* Ms. Bellon has written a book that will satisfy both the suspense and the romance reader in you!
Content: Clean. This book does deal with terrorists, prisoners of war, death, attacks, guns and such, and other aspects of war and suspense. But it is written very tastefully and clean. There are some kisses but nothing further than kisses. No language.
I received a copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
I was so happy to know that this book was going to feature Elliot! I've watched him in the background of the other books and was so hopeful that us readers would soon be able to learn more about him and see him shine in his element. And shine he does! Elliot starts his book out as a prisoner and being used as a doctor to care for the enemy that Griffin Force has been hunting. The stakes are high if he doesn't save the man, but they're even higher if he does. So it's really a no-win situation for him.
Enter Eden, a nurse, who is more than what she seems. She and Elliot are caught up in a deadly mission together and they have to learn to rely on each other if they're going to survive. But secrets can be deadly as well.
So many great twists and turns that had me holding on for the ride and possibly holding my breath off and on! Honestly! I'd be reading along and find I was holding my breath and had to remind myself to breath while turning the pages. Hahaha! I was just that absorbed in it all.
Oh and you're going to love the sweet romance throughout the story. *Happy Sigh* Ms. Bellon has written a book that will satisfy both the suspense and the romance reader in you!
Content: Clean. This book does deal with terrorists, prisoners of war, death, attacks, guns and such, and other aspects of war and suspense. But it is written very tastefully and clean. There are some kisses but nothing further than kisses. No language.
I received a copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
March 8, 2024
After a severe illness, there were days when I wondered if I would ever write again. Finishing Second Guess was a miracle in itself and I'm so grateful to my readers who reached out to ask about the book and encouraged me to keep going. This book means so much to me because of what it represents--healing and perseverance. So, five stars from me!
May 1, 2024
I'm behind reading this series but that didn't affect how much I enjoyed this book! In fact, I was so absorbed with all the action, and the twists and turns I didn't want to put it down.
Elliot is a doctor on the Griffin Force team and finds himself in a very precarious situation--he's a prisoner being forced by the enemy to treat the very man his team has been hunting. If his patient dies, more than likely so will he. Eden is a nurse with her own agenda, which may or may not jibe with Elliot's. Like it or not, if they're to survive they'll have to work together.
As I said, this book had me hooked! It had me on the edge of my seat as I didn't know what was going to happen next. I really liked how Elliot and Eden learned to trust each other as they worked together. This author writes wonderful clean romantic suspense and I highly recommend this series. Reading this one makes me want to go back and catch up on the books in the series I haven't read yet.
I received a complimentary copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Elliot is a doctor on the Griffin Force team and finds himself in a very precarious situation--he's a prisoner being forced by the enemy to treat the very man his team has been hunting. If his patient dies, more than likely so will he. Eden is a nurse with her own agenda, which may or may not jibe with Elliot's. Like it or not, if they're to survive they'll have to work together.
As I said, this book had me hooked! It had me on the edge of my seat as I didn't know what was going to happen next. I really liked how Elliot and Eden learned to trust each other as they worked together. This author writes wonderful clean romantic suspense and I highly recommend this series. Reading this one makes me want to go back and catch up on the books in the series I haven't read yet.
I received a complimentary copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
March 18, 2024
Are you a fan of military romantic suspense? Then you will definitely want to pick this book up!
This was a new-to-me author, and even though I haven't read any of her other books, I felt like I could jump right into the world of Griffin Force without being confused. The story follows Eden and Elliot, two gritty and well-trained fighters in the war againt terror. The two, who work for different organizations, meet essentailly under gunpoint. Talk about sparks flying! From there, their story really takes off as the pair teams up to fight against enemies that threaten the whole world. As they encounter danger after danger, will their growing attraction to each other be an assest or a liability in their fight against the enemy?
I loved how well Elliot's steadiness and dependability in the face of crisis paired with Eden's determination and drive to see justice served. They make a great pair, and it was fun to see how they navigated the tensions between them during such a high-stakes mission. I also loved the suspense elements of the plot! The story was fast-paced and sucks you in right from the beginning. The story ended in a satisfying way, while still leaving thing open for more books and more adventures.
Some more things I loved:
- Eden's backstory and motivation to help others
- Elliot's faith in his Griffin Force team
- The plot twists
- The first kiss
- Doctor MMC
- The use of tunnels in the story
- The epilogue
I think my only wish was I wanted more Elliot-and-Eden page time so I could see what made them attracted to each other in the first place. Overall, this was a great week. and I'm excited to go back and read the others!
This was a new-to-me author, and even though I haven't read any of her other books, I felt like I could jump right into the world of Griffin Force without being confused. The story follows Eden and Elliot, two gritty and well-trained fighters in the war againt terror. The two, who work for different organizations, meet essentailly under gunpoint. Talk about sparks flying! From there, their story really takes off as the pair teams up to fight against enemies that threaten the whole world. As they encounter danger after danger, will their growing attraction to each other be an assest or a liability in their fight against the enemy?
I loved how well Elliot's steadiness and dependability in the face of crisis paired with Eden's determination and drive to see justice served. They make a great pair, and it was fun to see how they navigated the tensions between them during such a high-stakes mission. I also loved the suspense elements of the plot! The story was fast-paced and sucks you in right from the beginning. The story ended in a satisfying way, while still leaving thing open for more books and more adventures.
Some more things I loved:
- Eden's backstory and motivation to help others
- Elliot's faith in his Griffin Force team
- The plot twists
- The first kiss
- Doctor MMC
- The use of tunnels in the story
- The epilogue
I think my only wish was I wanted more Elliot-and-Eden page time so I could see what made them attracted to each other in the first place. Overall, this was a great week. and I'm excited to go back and read the others!
March 26, 2024
Yay!! Another Griffin Force Book!
I'm so happy to be back with Griffin Force again! Old friends, new friends, working together to save the world. I loved the danger, excitement and forward momentum. This story had me interested and invested from beginning to end. I can't wait for more!!
I'm so happy to be back with Griffin Force again! Old friends, new friends, working together to save the world. I loved the danger, excitement and forward momentum. This story had me interested and invested from beginning to end. I can't wait for more!!
March 16, 2024
suspense at every turn
I absolutely love Elliot and Eden together. Elliot has always been a favorite of mine. This book kept me on the edge of my seat. I definitely can’t wait for the next book!
I absolutely love Elliot and Eden together. Elliot has always been a favorite of mine. This book kept me on the edge of my seat. I definitely can’t wait for the next book!
March 10, 2024
This book started off with a bang and kept going through the entire story! Elliot is a doctor tasked with keeping a patient alive. I'm a nurse and I enjoyed the medical aspects woven into the story line. I also liked the different groups that worked together in this book and seeing those dynamics play out in the story. There was a little romance that begins in this book that I hope we get to learn more about if there is another Griffin Force book that follows this one!
April 7, 2024
Second Guess is book six in the Griffin Force series written by Author Julie Coulter Bellon. Once you dive into this book, it's difficult to put it down for meals or bedtime. Describing it as engaging would be quite accurate.
This novel focuses on Elliott, a medic from Griffin Force, who finds himself escorting a notorious and injured war criminal to an underground location. Along the way, he ultimately becomes a captive. Additionally, Eden, a nurse from Chol, gets entangled in the chaos alongside Elliott. Together, they must cooperate to secure their freedom. They also overhear about a secretive meeting among leaders of various worldwide war organizations that is soon to take place. I loved seeing how these two fantastic individual characters grew together as a team and loved when their relationship took an interesting turn. Elliott considers a particular thought about himself and Eden that I thought to be wonderful.
"The invisible cord that had bound them together from the beginning now seemed to be tightly wrapped around them and he didn't mind at all."
Wow! Kudos to the author because it was so beautifully written.
With such agonizing personal challenges, the couple is very relatable to readers, which reminds you of star-crossed lovers facing heartbreaking circumstances.
While Second Guess can be enjoyed as a standalone novel, being familiar with the earlier books in the series enhances the overall reading experience. Packed with action, suspense, and a testament to the power of teamwork, Second Guess is an irresistible read that will leave readers on the edge of their seats. I wholeheartedly recommend this novel to fans of the genre.
This novel focuses on Elliott, a medic from Griffin Force, who finds himself escorting a notorious and injured war criminal to an underground location. Along the way, he ultimately becomes a captive. Additionally, Eden, a nurse from Chol, gets entangled in the chaos alongside Elliott. Together, they must cooperate to secure their freedom. They also overhear about a secretive meeting among leaders of various worldwide war organizations that is soon to take place. I loved seeing how these two fantastic individual characters grew together as a team and loved when their relationship took an interesting turn. Elliott considers a particular thought about himself and Eden that I thought to be wonderful.
"The invisible cord that had bound them together from the beginning now seemed to be tightly wrapped around them and he didn't mind at all."
Wow! Kudos to the author because it was so beautifully written.
With such agonizing personal challenges, the couple is very relatable to readers, which reminds you of star-crossed lovers facing heartbreaking circumstances.
While Second Guess can be enjoyed as a standalone novel, being familiar with the earlier books in the series enhances the overall reading experience. Packed with action, suspense, and a testament to the power of teamwork, Second Guess is an irresistible read that will leave readers on the edge of their seats. I wholeheartedly recommend this novel to fans of the genre.
March 2, 2024
I didn't want to put down this intriguing thriller! It kept me on the edge of my seat. I'm so glad the author continued this series. I've enjoyed the previous 5 Griffin Force books.
April 3, 2024
Bellon knows how to write romantic suspense that pulls you in and keeps your attention until the very last word! The action starts right away and never seems to let up. From heart pounding moments to split second decisions, the suspense and action are off the charts in this story! Elliot’s character is one of my favorites and I love his quiet gentleness. Eden was definitely more than meets the eye and kept me guessing as to who she really was. I love the sparks that flew between the two while the world around them seemed to be in utter chaos! This fast paced, heart pounding story will keep you on the edge of your seat for the entire ride! I received a complimentary copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own.
April 25, 2024
This author has long been a go-to in the suspense genre for me.
Summing it up: Eden and Elliot meet in the middle of a tense operation and it’s kind of an insta thing for them both. It goes with their insta trouble.
The middle: While they continue to hunt down terrorists together they try to explore a relationship. You know. In between explosions, gunshots, and danger lurking in every corner. Just setting the scene.
The ending: Ohmylanta! When did MREs become romantic? I see you doc. I do like a man in uniform. I enjoyed all the little moments that brought balance to this installment of The Griffin Force Series. It moves fast but can be read alone. See if Eden and Elliot can survive the terror and find a bit of love to own.
Summing it up: Eden and Elliot meet in the middle of a tense operation and it’s kind of an insta thing for them both. It goes with their insta trouble.
The middle: While they continue to hunt down terrorists together they try to explore a relationship. You know. In between explosions, gunshots, and danger lurking in every corner. Just setting the scene.
The ending: Ohmylanta! When did MREs become romantic? I see you doc. I do like a man in uniform. I enjoyed all the little moments that brought balance to this installment of The Griffin Force Series. It moves fast but can be read alone. See if Eden and Elliot can survive the terror and find a bit of love to own.
April 19, 2024
Gripping addition to the Griffin Force series
This was a gripping addition to the Griffin Force series, although it can be read as a standalone. I enjoyed this romantic suspense, I'd rate it PG for mild kissing and thematic violence.
This was a gripping addition to the Griffin Force series, although it can be read as a standalone. I enjoyed this romantic suspense, I'd rate it PG for mild kissing and thematic violence.
July 4, 2024
2.5 stars
This book is decently written and fairly well edited. It comes in the middle of the series, but works as a stand alone. Not my favorite genre (fighting terrorists in the Middle East), so lost a star for that reason. I liked the writing enough that I would try other books by this author.
This book is decently written and fairly well edited. It comes in the middle of the series, but works as a stand alone. Not my favorite genre (fighting terrorists in the Middle East), so lost a star for that reason. I liked the writing enough that I would try other books by this author.
July 31, 2024
I love this series so much and Elliot has always been one of my favorite characters. While the romance aspect felt a bit disjointed considering they’re truly in life and death situations, attraction can come at strange times, and I truly love seeing how well Eden and Elliot complement one another.
As with all of the other novels in this series, the action starts from the get-go and the tension does not let up the entire time you’re reading. This is one of those novels that it’s easy to get lost in the narrative, the minutes reading flying by in a blur as you witness the fight against terrorism from an up close and personal perspective.
The overall pace of the novel is great, and there is a nice balance between action and slower scenes. Eden’s backstory is so incredibly tragic. I cannot even begin to imagine having to deal with the kind of loss that she has in her young life. The tender moments that she shares with Elliot feel so genuine that my heart broke for her.
I felt like it took me mere minutes to read instead of hours and it truly feels like this series gets better and better.
As with all of the other novels in this series, the action starts from the get-go and the tension does not let up the entire time you’re reading. This is one of those novels that it’s easy to get lost in the narrative, the minutes reading flying by in a blur as you witness the fight against terrorism from an up close and personal perspective.
The overall pace of the novel is great, and there is a nice balance between action and slower scenes. Eden’s backstory is so incredibly tragic. I cannot even begin to imagine having to deal with the kind of loss that she has in her young life. The tender moments that she shares with Elliot feel so genuine that my heart broke for her.
I felt like it took me mere minutes to read instead of hours and it truly feels like this series gets better and better.
March 17, 2024
It’s wonderful to be reading another book from Julie Coulter Bellon. I’ve been a fan of hers for years and I was eagerly waiting this next book in the Griffin Force series.
Eden and Elliot’s story is filled with so much action, I couldn’t begin to predict what would happen next. Turning pages fast was a must as I read. I had to see what was going to happen. The author also does an excellent job of developing Elliot’s and Eden’s relationship with emotion and feelings of respect for each other. All while dealing with past incidents and connections.
I would recommend reading the series in order to appreciate all that’s is happening for each character involved, but you would be able to follow the story just fine otherwise.
I received an eARC from the author. All views and opinions are mine.
Eden and Elliot’s story is filled with so much action, I couldn’t begin to predict what would happen next. Turning pages fast was a must as I read. I had to see what was going to happen. The author also does an excellent job of developing Elliot’s and Eden’s relationship with emotion and feelings of respect for each other. All while dealing with past incidents and connections.
I would recommend reading the series in order to appreciate all that’s is happening for each character involved, but you would be able to follow the story just fine otherwise.
I received an eARC from the author. All views and opinions are mine.
May 28, 2024
REAL PAGE TURNER
Reviewed in the United States on May 27, 2024
Bam!!! Award winning author Julie Coulter Bellon has done it again!! In her new thriller "Second Guess." Part of the Griffin Force series. Bellon has succeeded in captivating readers with her masterful story telling talents! I have not read the other books in this series, but "Second Guess" is easily a stand-alone volume to endear readers to her captivating, suspenseful, nail biting, page turning, midnight oil burning style of writing. This volume centers around a wanted terrorist, a hijacking, a truly dangerous mission amidst the global war on terror, and a lesson on trusting your own instincts and not relying on or trusting others. I would give this volume 10 stars if that was an option. Get your copy today! You will be glad you did! This will keep you entertained on those long plane, train or car trips this summer!
Reviewed in the United States on May 27, 2024
Bam!!! Award winning author Julie Coulter Bellon has done it again!! In her new thriller "Second Guess." Part of the Griffin Force series. Bellon has succeeded in captivating readers with her masterful story telling talents! I have not read the other books in this series, but "Second Guess" is easily a stand-alone volume to endear readers to her captivating, suspenseful, nail biting, page turning, midnight oil burning style of writing. This volume centers around a wanted terrorist, a hijacking, a truly dangerous mission amidst the global war on terror, and a lesson on trusting your own instincts and not relying on or trusting others. I would give this volume 10 stars if that was an option. Get your copy today! You will be glad you did! This will keep you entertained on those long plane, train or car trips this summer!
June 29, 2024
I was in the mood for a fast-paced suspense type book, and I noticed this new book in the Griffin series. I do like this series and the global conflicts it spotlights. I also like the characters, especially the strong women. And I love the espionage, explosions, and life-threatening shoot-outs. If you like military or para-military conflicts, you'll like this book.
I don't normally love the heavy romance against a background of suspense, but except for the speed of the romance, that part was tolerable. And I'm sure readers who DO want the little feeling of attraction that grows into a the spark when the couple touches, and then leads to the inevitable hesitant kiss… yep, if you like that, you'll love this book.
A clean romance, with military violence. Recommended for older teens and adult readers. 4.5 stars.
I don't normally love the heavy romance against a background of suspense, but except for the speed of the romance, that part was tolerable. And I'm sure readers who DO want the little feeling of attraction that grows into a the spark when the couple touches, and then leads to the inevitable hesitant kiss… yep, if you like that, you'll love this book.
A clean romance, with military violence. Recommended for older teens and adult readers. 4.5 stars.
April 22, 2024
I love this series. Griffin Force is a group of military specialists that thwart terrorism. Elliot is the Doctor in the group along with his other skills. When a mission goes south and he is stuck trying to keep a terrorist leader alive long enough for his group to find him. But someone else finds and helps him first. Eden is part of Chol another group of specialists trying to thwart terrorism. Several groups combine to try to gain the upper hand in a coming together of several heads of terrorist groups.
This is a thrill ride from first page to the last. This book is full of action, heart and a bit of romance. I am looking forward to the next in the series.
This is a thrill ride from first page to the last. This book is full of action, heart and a bit of romance. I am looking forward to the next in the series.
March 23, 2024
Griffin Force is in the middle of the action again. Elliot, from Griffin Force, and Eden, from Chol, need to escape a crumbling tunnel. Their mission becomes huge when they discover the location of a secret meeting of world terrorists. The story has a lot of action and suspense, with a little light romance. The characters are well-developed and believable. I received a copy, and I'm voluntarily giving my honest review.
February 29, 2024
A plot that deal with threats and who can he trusts. A chilling thriller that I enjoyed, turning pages to figure it out. A good series and I recommend her latest book, Second Guess.
Given arc for my voluntary review
Given arc for my voluntary review
March 4, 2024
What can I say? This book is truly captivating. It kept me in suspense all the way through. Julie has a wonderful gift and is a GREAT author. Thank you so much for sharing your talent as a writer with everyone. Keep up the great work.
April 13, 2024
This is a suspense filled read, with some romantic moments too. I couldn't put this book down as I wanted to know what was going to happen next. It's well written with great characters. Won't disappoint!
January 21, 2025
3.5 stars
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews