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Wildefire #2
Midnight Lies
The second in Ella Grace's series of steamy romance, suspense and mystery is the next adventure for the featuring the Wilde sisters in the small, southern town of Midnight, Alabama. Will thrill fans of Christy Reece, Maya Banks, Nina Bruhns and Pamela Clare.
On a hot southern night, a family is shattered. For years, the three beautiful Wilde sisters stayed away from Midnight, Alabama...until Midnight calls them home.
Haunted by tragedy, former homecoming queen Samantha Wilde couldn't imagine any career other than law enforcement. But beneath her tough facade lies a wary heart. When Quinn Braddock, the man Samantha loves, is accused of murder, she assumes the worst and, broken hearted, she returns to Midnight.
Although stung by Samantha's doubt, the now-exonerated Quinn can't forget his feelings and won't give up on her. Soon after his arrival in Midnight, a shocking murder terrifies the town and suspicion immediately falls on Quinn. But this time Samantha will not turn her back on the man she loves - even if it means walking into a killer's trap.
Want more steamy southern suspense? Look for Savannah's story in Midnight Secrets and Sabrina's story in Midnight Shadows. And don't miss the pulse-pounding novels in the Last Chance Rescue series, Rescue Me, Return To Me, Run To Me, No Chance, Second Chance, Last Chance, Sweet Justice, Sweet Revenge and Sweet Reward by Ella's alter-ego Christy Reece.
On a hot southern night, a family is shattered. For years, the three beautiful Wilde sisters stayed away from Midnight, Alabama...until Midnight calls them home.
Haunted by tragedy, former homecoming queen Samantha Wilde couldn't imagine any career other than law enforcement. But beneath her tough facade lies a wary heart. When Quinn Braddock, the man Samantha loves, is accused of murder, she assumes the worst and, broken hearted, she returns to Midnight.
Although stung by Samantha's doubt, the now-exonerated Quinn can't forget his feelings and won't give up on her. Soon after his arrival in Midnight, a shocking murder terrifies the town and suspicion immediately falls on Quinn. But this time Samantha will not turn her back on the man she loves - even if it means walking into a killer's trap.
Want more steamy southern suspense? Look for Savannah's story in Midnight Secrets and Sabrina's story in Midnight Shadows. And don't miss the pulse-pounding novels in the Last Chance Rescue series, Rescue Me, Return To Me, Run To Me, No Chance, Second Chance, Last Chance, Sweet Justice, Sweet Revenge and Sweet Reward by Ella's alter-ego Christy Reece.
432 pages, Paperback
First published September 24, 2013
34 people are currently reading
1276 people want to read
About the author
Ella Grace
62 books250 followersElla Grace is the pseudonym for NYT Bestselling author Christy Reece. Ella's Midnight series is based in her home state of Alabama. The first book, MIDNIGHT SECRETS, is scheduled for release April 2013 and includes steamy romance, mystery, and suspense set in the small fictional town of Midnight, Alabama.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 137 reviews
August 7, 2013
"Do you want me to say that staying away from you more than a minute is painful for me? That the thought of not having you in my life tears at my soul? That just seeing your face creates a peace inside me I've never felt before? That having you in my arms is like coming home?"
If you're looking for a romantic suspense that is filled with action, mystery, steam, and will keep you on the very edge of your seat until the very last page...well, you NEED to read this series.
I really liked, but didn't LOVE the first book in this series, this book took me by complete and total surprise. While the series is based on triplet sisters, and each book has a different hero and heroine, it is not meant to be a standalone. A lot of nuances and backstory were heavily covered in the first book, and many things would be missed by skipping it.
Midnight Lies picks up somewhere right around where Midnight Secrets left off. Samantha Wilde, the popular, flirty sister and former homecoming queen took everyone by surprise when she became a homicide detective. While she is still haunted by her parents' murder suicide, it helps drive her need for justice.
When she meets and begins dating sexy emergency physician, Quinn Braddock, Samantha can't help but fall head over heals. Quinn, coming out of a terrible marriage, is not looking for anything permanent. After all, he tried it once, and it didn't work. While they may not share a detailed history or feelings with each other, the passion between them burns hot and heavy.
When Quinn becomes a suspect in his ex-wife's brutal murder, it shakes Samantha's foundation to the core. Her history isn't exactly the best indicator of good judgement and she can't help but harbor doubts of his innocence. Though it doesn't take her long to rectify her mistake. Unfortunately, for Quinn, feeling betrayed by Sam's initial doubts it's too late, and he breaks up with her in a way that leaves Sam brokenhearted. Leaving behind her life and job in Atlanta, Sam moves back to Midnight to begin an investigating business with her 2 sisters.
Five months later, Quinn realizes his mistake and that he wants Sam back. Following her to Midnight seems like the first logical step he's made in a while. He knows it will be a long road back inside Sam's heart, but he's a man determined.
This book was a page turner until the very end. While I found the first book to be a little drawn-out and slow to start, this one more than made up for it.
It was also incredibly steamy. Sam and Quinn burned up the pages together.
Midnight Lies was quick paced and action packed. All of the characters were back from the first book and it was great to get another peek at Zach and Savannah. Even though the mystery of the killer wasn't quite as shocking as it was in the first book, the twist at the end took me by complete surprise.
The set up for the third sister, Sabrina, sounds like it will be the best book of the 3. And I'm still hoping that we'll get a book for Logan and Brody.
ARC courtesy of publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
For more reviews visit: Dirty Girl Romance Book Blog
wish-list
September 25, 2012Woo hoo! Bring it on Christy Reece. You can change your pen name, but you can't hide. I'll stalk follow you where ever you go. :-)
December 4, 2019
Let me just preface my four star rating by saying I did indeed love this story! It continues on from the first book (Midnight Secrets) yet stands completely on it's own if you choose to jump in instead of reading in order. I'm very much looking forward to stories from remaining characters...
So why 4 stars and not 5 you ask? Hmmm personal preference. I think both Sam and Quinn stayed in character and followed paths that were true to each of them but I didn't love all of it. I would've liked to have seen them get on the same page a little sooner and work together better than they did. Again though, that's my preference and not necessarily a negative to the story. They DID behave the way I believe they were meant to behave I just would've like something different. I also think this is the mark of a good storyteller when I can be shown that I can love a character when I don't initially feel all warm and fuzzy for him/her in the beginning. By the time I finished I was both floored by the villain (didn't even suspect until I was just about on top of the reveal) and crazy about Sam and Quinn. They finished with a bang big enough to leave me hungry for the next story.
All in all a satisfying read!! I look forward to more from Ella Grace!!
So why 4 stars and not 5 you ask? Hmmm personal preference. I think both Sam and Quinn stayed in character and followed paths that were true to each of them but I didn't love all of it. I would've liked to have seen them get on the same page a little sooner and work together better than they did. Again though, that's my preference and not necessarily a negative to the story. They DID behave the way I believe they were meant to behave I just would've like something different. I also think this is the mark of a good storyteller when I can be shown that I can love a character when I don't initially feel all warm and fuzzy for him/her in the beginning. By the time I finished I was both floored by the villain (didn't even suspect until I was just about on top of the reveal) and crazy about Sam and Quinn. They finished with a bang big enough to leave me hungry for the next story.
All in all a satisfying read!! I look forward to more from Ella Grace!!
October 12, 2018
12/10 - I realised about three quarters of the way through that I didn't care who the killer was or why they'd done it because I didn't feel any real sympathy for either victim. Unlike the first book's victims, the main characters' parents, I didn't feel like there was any real reason for me to care about these two (other than general human caring because people are dead and that's usually a sad thing). The first victim is the ex-wife of the hero and is not portrayed in a kind light in any way - ergo, why do I feel anything much about her death - the second is a woman whose brother and father have tormented her for her whole life (and that's tragic), but other than that we barely know anything about her and I think that lead me to feeling pity more than anything for her.
Not caring who did it and then working out who it was by a simple process of elimination just left me cold and unenthusiastic about continuing. I kept reading simply for an explanation of the motive, which was a surprise, but by that time it was too late for the book - there was no way it could redeem itself in 20 pages. Even the romance didn't quite live up to that of the first book, so overall it was a case 'meh'. I'm not really looking forward to reading the third book, which I'll be picking up from the library on Monday.
Not caring who did it and then working out who it was by a simple process of elimination just left me cold and unenthusiastic about continuing. I kept reading simply for an explanation of the motive, which was a surprise, but by that time it was too late for the book - there was no way it could redeem itself in 20 pages. Even the romance didn't quite live up to that of the first book, so overall it was a case 'meh'. I'm not really looking forward to reading the third book, which I'll be picking up from the library on Monday.
September 8, 2013
The set up
The story begins five months earlier, around the same time as the beginning of the first book. Samantha Wilde is an Atlanta Police Department homicide detective involved with Quinn Braddock, an emergency room doctor. They have quite the physical relationship but haven't really invested the time and effort to really get to know each other. Both are reluctant to go explore their pasts as revisiting it is painful and shameful. When Quinn comes under suspicion for murder, it derails their relationship and she returns to Midnight.
The issues
Samantha and Quinn have a smoldering and steamy physical relationship but he resists commitment because of his disastrous first marriage. Both shouldered responsibility for what happened to them in Atlanta and try hard to push through their tendency to withhold. She's all about commitment and is trying to overcome having doubted him when he was facing murder charges. They have many rocky moments but they kept finding a way to communicate with each other to work through it so the story wasn't overburdened with a lot of misunderstandings.
What I really liked
There was much more balance of romance and suspense in this story, with romance continuing to have the edge. When Samantha returns home to work with her sisters, I was able to better distinguish between the triplets as their personalities are distinctive. When they discussed the bright moments of their past it better defined them individually, adding layers that made them interesting in their own right.
The murder mystery was pretty interesting, even though I'd figured out a major aspect of it early on. However, the tension from not knowing when and how the murderer would present himself kept me edgy and turning the pages. The climax was exciting and disturbing. You won't be able to stop reading until you reach the end.
What didn't work so well
Absolutely nothing.
The bottom line
I loved this story with its messy romance and gruesome murder/mystery element. As much as Quinn would frustrate me he was so honorable and passionate when it came to Samantha you couldn't help but hang in there with him until he got it right. The overlay of the small-town nosiness and gossip added a humorous tone so things weren't always so serious. And, there was just enough story devoted to the third sister, Sabrina, to whet my appetite for the next book. I'm finding it hard to be patient to wait for its release...and when will that be Ms. Grace???
(I received an ARC from NetGalley)
The story begins five months earlier, around the same time as the beginning of the first book. Samantha Wilde is an Atlanta Police Department homicide detective involved with Quinn Braddock, an emergency room doctor. They have quite the physical relationship but haven't really invested the time and effort to really get to know each other. Both are reluctant to go explore their pasts as revisiting it is painful and shameful. When Quinn comes under suspicion for murder, it derails their relationship and she returns to Midnight.
The issues
Samantha and Quinn have a smoldering and steamy physical relationship but he resists commitment because of his disastrous first marriage. Both shouldered responsibility for what happened to them in Atlanta and try hard to push through their tendency to withhold. She's all about commitment and is trying to overcome having doubted him when he was facing murder charges. They have many rocky moments but they kept finding a way to communicate with each other to work through it so the story wasn't overburdened with a lot of misunderstandings.
What I really liked
There was much more balance of romance and suspense in this story, with romance continuing to have the edge. When Samantha returns home to work with her sisters, I was able to better distinguish between the triplets as their personalities are distinctive. When they discussed the bright moments of their past it better defined them individually, adding layers that made them interesting in their own right.
The murder mystery was pretty interesting, even though I'd figured out a major aspect of it early on. However, the tension from not knowing when and how the murderer would present himself kept me edgy and turning the pages. The climax was exciting and disturbing. You won't be able to stop reading until you reach the end.
What didn't work so well
Absolutely nothing.
The bottom line
I loved this story with its messy romance and gruesome murder/mystery element. As much as Quinn would frustrate me he was so honorable and passionate when it came to Samantha you couldn't help but hang in there with him until he got it right. The overlay of the small-town nosiness and gossip added a humorous tone so things weren't always so serious. And, there was just enough story devoted to the third sister, Sabrina, to whet my appetite for the next book. I'm finding it hard to be patient to wait for its release...and when will that be Ms. Grace???
(I received an ARC from NetGalley)
September 24, 2013
No "Lies" -- from start to finish, it's a great read!
Ella Grace has yet again given readers an outstanding blend of romance and suspense in her latest addition to the “Wildefire” series. This wonderfully written book has it all – everything and more that I’m looking for in a great romantic suspense! “Midnight Lies” is filled with unforgettable characters who will grab your attention in a riveting and perfectly blended tension-filled mystery and steamy romantic plot.
The product description amply supplies readers with an intriguing tease for this story and I’m not going to tempt fate by adding anything more that might spoil the experience. Suffice it to say that Samantha Wilde and Quinn Braddock are simply irresistible and their fiery story is definitely one you won’t want to miss. Along with it, you’ll revisit characters from “Midnight Secrets” and see a little foreshadowing of things to come in Sabrina’s book.
Ella Grace (a/k/a Christy Reece) is an author that jumps out ahead of the pack for a guaranteed good read complete with action, suspense, and steam. She never fails to provide a complete package of edge-of-your-seat chills and thrills with every book.
Ella Grace has yet again given readers an outstanding blend of romance and suspense in her latest addition to the “Wildefire” series. This wonderfully written book has it all – everything and more that I’m looking for in a great romantic suspense! “Midnight Lies” is filled with unforgettable characters who will grab your attention in a riveting and perfectly blended tension-filled mystery and steamy romantic plot.
The product description amply supplies readers with an intriguing tease for this story and I’m not going to tempt fate by adding anything more that might spoil the experience. Suffice it to say that Samantha Wilde and Quinn Braddock are simply irresistible and their fiery story is definitely one you won’t want to miss. Along with it, you’ll revisit characters from “Midnight Secrets” and see a little foreshadowing of things to come in Sabrina’s book.
Ella Grace (a/k/a Christy Reece) is an author that jumps out ahead of the pack for a guaranteed good read complete with action, suspense, and steam. She never fails to provide a complete package of edge-of-your-seat chills and thrills with every book.
January 4, 2014
The second book in Ella Grace's Wildefire series. The series features sisters who are triplets who are from a small town in Alabama named Midnight. This book is about Samantha Wilde who ended up in Atlanta as a cop. When her boyfriend, Quinn Braddock, is accused of murder Samantha's inability to trust in his innocence destroys the relationship. Months later after Quinn is cleared and Samantha has returned to Midnight, Quinn finds out that Samantha was instrumental in finding the witnesses that cleared him. He goes to Midnight to attempt to patch things up.
It was pretty good. The mystery wasn't that mysterious for me. I guessed fairly early in the story who it was but there were some surprises thrown in. The relationship/romance took the lead in this book with the suspense coming in a strong second. I would certainly recommend it.
It was pretty good. The mystery wasn't that mysterious for me. I guessed fairly early in the story who it was but there were some surprises thrown in. The relationship/romance took the lead in this book with the suspense coming in a strong second. I would certainly recommend it.
October 3, 2013
4 stars – Romantic Suspense
November 27, 2025
Samantha Wilde did everything she could to take notice off her parents murder/suicide. Growing up she always strived for perfection. When she left for college, no one would ever of believed she'd become a police detective...but that is exactly what she did.
When the man of her dreams, Quinn Braddock, is accused of murdering his ex-wife all Samantha's demons resurface. The slight doubt of his innocence kills their budding relationship and ultimately sends Samantha home to Midnight, Alabama to join her other two identical sisters.
Quinn belatedly finds out Samantha was responsible for clearing his name before she left town. Realizing what he lost, he pursues Samantha back to Midnight. Not willing to open her heart up again, Quinn must convince Samantha that he is worth the risk.
When woman around Quinn show up murdered again, Samantha must decided if she believes in Quinn and her instincts enough to save them both.
A fabulous addition to the Wildefire series, Midnight Lies once again pulls us deep into the Wilde sister's lives...especially Samantha. I found this story to be a fantastic romantic thriller, filled with a perfect amount of suspense and plot twists to keep you riveted to the pages.
I especially enjoy the fact that a two single and steamy new detectives have joined forces with the Wildfire Detective Agency, I can't wait to see where this series leads next.
This book is the second in a Wildefire series but it can easily be read as a stand alone...although I recommend you don't miss Midnight Secrets.
I received this ARC copy of Midnight Lies from Random House Publishing Group - Ballantine in exchange for a honest review. This book is set for publication September 24, 2013.
When the man of her dreams, Quinn Braddock, is accused of murdering his ex-wife all Samantha's demons resurface. The slight doubt of his innocence kills their budding relationship and ultimately sends Samantha home to Midnight, Alabama to join her other two identical sisters.
Quinn belatedly finds out Samantha was responsible for clearing his name before she left town. Realizing what he lost, he pursues Samantha back to Midnight. Not willing to open her heart up again, Quinn must convince Samantha that he is worth the risk.
When woman around Quinn show up murdered again, Samantha must decided if she believes in Quinn and her instincts enough to save them both.
A fabulous addition to the Wildefire series, Midnight Lies once again pulls us deep into the Wilde sister's lives...especially Samantha. I found this story to be a fantastic romantic thriller, filled with a perfect amount of suspense and plot twists to keep you riveted to the pages.
I especially enjoy the fact that a two single and steamy new detectives have joined forces with the Wildfire Detective Agency, I can't wait to see where this series leads next.
This book is the second in a Wildefire series but it can easily be read as a stand alone...although I recommend you don't miss Midnight Secrets.
I received this ARC copy of Midnight Lies from Random House Publishing Group - Ballantine in exchange for a honest review. This book is set for publication September 24, 2013.
September 11, 2013
ARC PROVIDED THROUGH NETGALLEY
I loved it!! I am a big fan of romance + suspense in a book, and this book delivered. The author's style reminds me of Maya Banks, one of my favourites. I'll most certainly keep reading Ella Grace's work. It's always a great surprise to discover amazing authors.
I think the author did a really good job balancing the romance and the suspense, not going overboard with either. The killer threw me for a loop. I had no idea who had done it until the very end. I thought it was disgruntled former patient or something similar.
I really liked the idea that people with a troubled past can overcome it and give back. Both Quinn and Sam did. Sam has a great family. I loved Sam, Savvy and Bri's interactions. Hopefully, Bri, Logan and Brody will get their story. Oh, yeah, I want stories for all of them!!
The only thing I wish is that Quinn had a positive role model growing up, like Sam with her Grandpa. But that is just a personal preference, he turned out fine indeed. Quinn's parents are perfect example of people living behind a façade.
I liked the fact that both Sam and Quinn were complex people, with depth and layers, they are round characters. They aren't flat or cartoony, they grow and change within the storyline.
I loved it!! I am a big fan of romance + suspense in a book, and this book delivered. The author's style reminds me of Maya Banks, one of my favourites. I'll most certainly keep reading Ella Grace's work. It's always a great surprise to discover amazing authors.
I think the author did a really good job balancing the romance and the suspense, not going overboard with either. The killer threw me for a loop. I had no idea who had done it until the very end. I thought it was disgruntled former patient or something similar.
I really liked the idea that people with a troubled past can overcome it and give back. Both Quinn and Sam did. Sam has a great family. I loved Sam, Savvy and Bri's interactions. Hopefully, Bri, Logan and Brody will get their story. Oh, yeah, I want stories for all of them!!
The only thing I wish is that Quinn had a positive role model growing up, like Sam with her Grandpa. But that is just a personal preference, he turned out fine indeed. Quinn's parents are perfect example of people living behind a façade.
I liked the fact that both Sam and Quinn were complex people, with depth and layers, they are round characters. They aren't flat or cartoony, they grow and change within the storyline.
May 3, 2015
I was lukewarm about the first book in this series – Midnight Secrets. It just did not hold up to previous Christy Reece books (the author's other name). The teaser for Midnight Lies was good enough that I was looking forward to reading this one. We start with Quinn and Samantha (one of the triplet sisters of Savannah, heroine of the first book) in a relationship. Sam is falling in love with Quinn, but Quinn, a doctor who had been in a lousy marriage, keeps his feelings closed off and enjoys the sex and the companionship but is not looking for something permanent. His awful ex wife is murdered just before Quinn shows up at her house, and he’s arrested for the murder. Samantha wants to believe in him, but since her supposedly wonderful father murdered her mother (which she later finds out is not true – he was set up) she wonders about Quinn. She hates herself for her doubts, but there they are. She works behind the scenes to try and prove Quinn is innocent (and disprove her own doubts). Quinn is set free, but there are still doubts. Sam goes to see Quinn dressed for seduction – he’s drunk, they have sex, but the next day he kicks her to the curb, still hurt by her doubting him (he feels badly about treating her “like a prostitute”, but she did come over dressed for seduction and jumped on him w/o even trying to talk). Sam is devastated and leaves for home. FF a couple of months – suspicion still lingers about Quinn, but all he can do is think about Sam and how much he misses her. He goes to find her in her home town and the wooing commences.
The bulk of this book is about Quinn trying to win back Sam and Sam trying her hardest to resist the magnetic pull of Quinn and their amazing chemistry. She’s not as wishy-washy as Savannah was, but she’s not exactly a strong woman either (even though she was a cop). She laments that Quinn never shared his history (pretty messed up family) but neither did she ever tell him about her own family tragedy. I don’t blame Quinn for being hurt by her doubts about him – and not knowing her backstory, why would he understand? As usual, some communication and honestly would have gone a long way to help. I have a hard time believing the new security agency the sisters have opened together requires them to have a receptionist – they have one case, are doing no advertising, and are working with Logan and Brody (who seem to have left their own agency and working for free w/the somewhat clueless women – I do like them and would like to read more about them!). Bri (the 3rd sister) has disappeared to infiltrate the den of a super bad guy – that whole story line made no sense – I can only hope it’s explained in Bri’s book. While not exactly as bumbling as Keystone Cops, the sisters really don’t seem to know what they are doing, and it’s made even harder since they want to “protect” pregnant Savannah by not telling her what is going on w/the one case they are working. Speaking of the case…Bri says to Lauren, the woman who has hired them for security and protection “You’d better hope to hell you’re right, because if you’ve brought that scum to my town and endangered my family, Armando Cruz will be the least of your problems.” Um…isn’t that their business? To help secure and protect people in trouble? Lauren is in trouble, and has come to them for help. If she’s in danger, what else should she do but hire someone to help her? What kind of cases did they think they would get?! And when Sam thinks “…now that Savvy was pregnant, she wasn’t sure taking this case was the right thing to do. Protecting her sister and her baby was priority number one” all I could think was “then why did you go into the security business in the first place, if you can’t put your clients’ needs first??” The whole idea that these three could “take down” a master criminal and drug lord who the various government agencies have been trying to take down for years…just really dumb!
I didn’t understand Quinn’s complete 180 about his feelings for Sam. He was adamant he was not interested in a long term relationship, even though he was thinking about asking Sam to move in before his ex was murdered, but still – there was no real commitment between them but he gives up everything to come after her so they could be together. Seemed to come out of left field. Like in Savannah’s book, there was a lot of Quinn noticing how beautiful Sam was, a lot of soft kisses, etc. The sisters all look out for one another, but when Bri says to Quinn “You fix it with Sammie or I’ll bring a friend over next time I come…my favorite little Smith and Wesson. She’s convinced plenty of people to think my way” I wanted to laugh – such ridiculous dialogue. I half expected her to say “go ahead, punk, make my day!” Like in MS, the author focuses on a mystery for the beginning, it toddles along behind the rest of the story for the bulk of the book, and then the last 20% or so the mystery kicks up into high gear and once again the heroine finds herself in danger. Definitely more of a contemporary romance w/a bit of suspense thrown in for good measure vs a Romantic Suspense novel.
The romance was ok, Quinn was a likable yet bland character, and Samantha was nothing special. No teaser for Bri’s book, but I will find it and read it sooner or later, just to finish the trilogy.
The bulk of this book is about Quinn trying to win back Sam and Sam trying her hardest to resist the magnetic pull of Quinn and their amazing chemistry. She’s not as wishy-washy as Savannah was, but she’s not exactly a strong woman either (even though she was a cop). She laments that Quinn never shared his history (pretty messed up family) but neither did she ever tell him about her own family tragedy. I don’t blame Quinn for being hurt by her doubts about him – and not knowing her backstory, why would he understand? As usual, some communication and honestly would have gone a long way to help. I have a hard time believing the new security agency the sisters have opened together requires them to have a receptionist – they have one case, are doing no advertising, and are working with Logan and Brody (who seem to have left their own agency and working for free w/the somewhat clueless women – I do like them and would like to read more about them!). Bri (the 3rd sister) has disappeared to infiltrate the den of a super bad guy – that whole story line made no sense – I can only hope it’s explained in Bri’s book. While not exactly as bumbling as Keystone Cops, the sisters really don’t seem to know what they are doing, and it’s made even harder since they want to “protect” pregnant Savannah by not telling her what is going on w/the one case they are working. Speaking of the case…Bri says to Lauren, the woman who has hired them for security and protection “You’d better hope to hell you’re right, because if you’ve brought that scum to my town and endangered my family, Armando Cruz will be the least of your problems.” Um…isn’t that their business? To help secure and protect people in trouble? Lauren is in trouble, and has come to them for help. If she’s in danger, what else should she do but hire someone to help her? What kind of cases did they think they would get?! And when Sam thinks “…now that Savvy was pregnant, she wasn’t sure taking this case was the right thing to do. Protecting her sister and her baby was priority number one” all I could think was “then why did you go into the security business in the first place, if you can’t put your clients’ needs first??” The whole idea that these three could “take down” a master criminal and drug lord who the various government agencies have been trying to take down for years…just really dumb!
I didn’t understand Quinn’s complete 180 about his feelings for Sam. He was adamant he was not interested in a long term relationship, even though he was thinking about asking Sam to move in before his ex was murdered, but still – there was no real commitment between them but he gives up everything to come after her so they could be together. Seemed to come out of left field. Like in Savannah’s book, there was a lot of Quinn noticing how beautiful Sam was, a lot of soft kisses, etc. The sisters all look out for one another, but when Bri says to Quinn “You fix it with Sammie or I’ll bring a friend over next time I come…my favorite little Smith and Wesson. She’s convinced plenty of people to think my way” I wanted to laugh – such ridiculous dialogue. I half expected her to say “go ahead, punk, make my day!” Like in MS, the author focuses on a mystery for the beginning, it toddles along behind the rest of the story for the bulk of the book, and then the last 20% or so the mystery kicks up into high gear and once again the heroine finds herself in danger. Definitely more of a contemporary romance w/a bit of suspense thrown in for good measure vs a Romantic Suspense novel.
The romance was ok, Quinn was a likable yet bland character, and Samantha was nothing special. No teaser for Bri’s book, but I will find it and read it sooner or later, just to finish the trilogy.
September 13, 2013
Review posted: Happily Ever After - Reads
Blog rating: C
Samantha and Quinn have been dating a few months and everything is moving along nicely. Quinn is ready to ask Samantha to move in with him and has planned a romantic evening for them both when that morning, after a phone call from his ex-wife, he stops by her house to get a family necklace she kept after their divorce, only to find his ex-wife murdered. Quinn is at the scene when the cops arrive and he’s accused of murder. Samantha, having flashbacks to her parents own murder-suicide, has initial doubts about Quinn, but once she believes he’s innocent, the damage to their relationship has already been done. Samantha works to prove that Quinn didn’t commit murder and is able to find witnesses that cast doubt on his case. Quinn is cleared, but with the murderer still out there, he’s living and working (as an ER doctor) under a cloud of suspicion. Samantha’s life has also been turned upside down. After trying to apologize to Quinn for not immediately believing in him, she tries to rebuild their relationship to only end up spending the night at his house, having angry, hurtful sex (on his part) and leaving the next day. Sam is devastated and heads home to her sisters in Midnight, Alabama to start over. Once Quinn realizes what he’s lost in Sam, he vows to do anything to get her back and heads to Midnight to try to save their relationship. But the murderer strikes again, this time in Midnight and Sam and Quinn have to try and find the killer before he can target Sam.
In the prior book (Midnight Secrets), we know that Sam is dealing with heartbreak and we get the whole story of her and Quinn’s relationship at the start of Midnight Lies. I liked have a good amount of the story going into Sam’s life prior to coming back to Midnight and it helped set up her relationship with Quinn. I did not like how Quinn treated Sam during their last night together, he came off as an ass. He had every right to be mad and frustrated, his entire life was turned upside down, but he didn’t earn any points with me for how he used Sam. Cut to present day, and now with Quinn and Sam both in Midnight and another murder that mimics that of Quinn’s ex-wife, everyone knows that the murderer is targeting Quinn and the people closest to him for some reason. The suspense storyline was easy to get into. I liked trying to figure out who the person was behind the murders, even though I’m horrible at guessing and never get it right, it played out well on page and I was able to get caught up in that aspect. I do cringe though whenever the heroine ends up in the bad guy’s hands and is captured, bound and naked. I don’t know why this always makes me groan. I get the set up for it, showing the heroine at her most vulnerable, but it reads so clichéd to me.
The romance had a few more issues for me. On the whole, I liked Sam and Quinn, but there was too much back and forth for them. They can’t be together because of this reason or that reason or they can’t be together because Quinn wants to protect her, etc. It got old. What saved the believability of their relationship was the lengthy set up we got early on, showing their relationship prior to them both coming to Midnight. There was just something missing, sparks or chemistry. Quinn’s a nice guy, Sam’s likable, there was just something a little boring about their romance.
I like how the triplets, Samantha, Savannah and Sabrina have a strong presence here. I like their dynamic and seeing how their men, first Zach for Savannah and now Quinn with Samantha fit into their family. There’s just enough build up for Sabrina’s story and enough talk about her best friend Ian that has me wanting to know more about them and their relationship.
The suspense in Midnight Lies is engaging, but the romance was a bit of a roller coaster with some nice, sexy moments that worked and other moments that just didn’t. But I’m still overall liking this romantic/suspense series focused on three sisters and continue to be interested enough to see where things are headed next.
Blog rating: C
Samantha and Quinn have been dating a few months and everything is moving along nicely. Quinn is ready to ask Samantha to move in with him and has planned a romantic evening for them both when that morning, after a phone call from his ex-wife, he stops by her house to get a family necklace she kept after their divorce, only to find his ex-wife murdered. Quinn is at the scene when the cops arrive and he’s accused of murder. Samantha, having flashbacks to her parents own murder-suicide, has initial doubts about Quinn, but once she believes he’s innocent, the damage to their relationship has already been done. Samantha works to prove that Quinn didn’t commit murder and is able to find witnesses that cast doubt on his case. Quinn is cleared, but with the murderer still out there, he’s living and working (as an ER doctor) under a cloud of suspicion. Samantha’s life has also been turned upside down. After trying to apologize to Quinn for not immediately believing in him, she tries to rebuild their relationship to only end up spending the night at his house, having angry, hurtful sex (on his part) and leaving the next day. Sam is devastated and heads home to her sisters in Midnight, Alabama to start over. Once Quinn realizes what he’s lost in Sam, he vows to do anything to get her back and heads to Midnight to try to save their relationship. But the murderer strikes again, this time in Midnight and Sam and Quinn have to try and find the killer before he can target Sam.
In the prior book (Midnight Secrets), we know that Sam is dealing with heartbreak and we get the whole story of her and Quinn’s relationship at the start of Midnight Lies. I liked have a good amount of the story going into Sam’s life prior to coming back to Midnight and it helped set up her relationship with Quinn. I did not like how Quinn treated Sam during their last night together, he came off as an ass. He had every right to be mad and frustrated, his entire life was turned upside down, but he didn’t earn any points with me for how he used Sam. Cut to present day, and now with Quinn and Sam both in Midnight and another murder that mimics that of Quinn’s ex-wife, everyone knows that the murderer is targeting Quinn and the people closest to him for some reason. The suspense storyline was easy to get into. I liked trying to figure out who the person was behind the murders, even though I’m horrible at guessing and never get it right, it played out well on page and I was able to get caught up in that aspect. I do cringe though whenever the heroine ends up in the bad guy’s hands and is captured, bound and naked. I don’t know why this always makes me groan. I get the set up for it, showing the heroine at her most vulnerable, but it reads so clichéd to me.
The romance had a few more issues for me. On the whole, I liked Sam and Quinn, but there was too much back and forth for them. They can’t be together because of this reason or that reason or they can’t be together because Quinn wants to protect her, etc. It got old. What saved the believability of their relationship was the lengthy set up we got early on, showing their relationship prior to them both coming to Midnight. There was just something missing, sparks or chemistry. Quinn’s a nice guy, Sam’s likable, there was just something a little boring about their romance.
I like how the triplets, Samantha, Savannah and Sabrina have a strong presence here. I like their dynamic and seeing how their men, first Zach for Savannah and now Quinn with Samantha fit into their family. There’s just enough build up for Sabrina’s story and enough talk about her best friend Ian that has me wanting to know more about them and their relationship.
The suspense in Midnight Lies is engaging, but the romance was a bit of a roller coaster with some nice, sexy moments that worked and other moments that just didn’t. But I’m still overall liking this romantic/suspense series focused on three sisters and continue to be interested enough to see where things are headed next.
September 28, 2013
Title: Midnight Lies
Series: Wildefire book 2
Author: Ella Grace
Genre: Romantic Suspense
IT’S ALWAYS HOTTER AT MIDNIGHT.
The winds of fate have blown cruelly on a family that once had it all: money, power, prestige. The lives of three beautiful daughters were forever changed when, on a sultry night in Midnight, Alabama, a murder-suicide shattered the Wilde family. The girls grew up to live separate lives but now have returned home, each to face a danger no one can see coming.
Former homecoming queen Samantha surprised everyone by going into law enforcement, but beneath her tough façade lies a wary heart. The tragedy that struck her family is an ever-present reminder that nothing is ever as it seems. When the man she loves, Quinn Braddock, a doctor and Iraq war veteran, is accused of murder, Samantha assumes the worst. Brokenhearted, her confidence shattered, she returns to Midnight. Though exonerated, Quinn still feels the sting of Samantha’s doubt, but he can’t forget his feelings for her and follows her. Soon after his arrival, a shocking murder terrifies the town, and once again, Quinn is under suspicion. This time, Samantha will not turn her back on the man she loves—even if it means walking into a killer’s trap.
Let me start by saying that I reviewed the first book of the Wildefire series Midnight Secrets here on the blog and LOVED it. SO I was super excited be able to read the second book in the series a little early and have the numerous questions answered that I was left with at the end of the first book… and once again Ella Grace/Cindy Reece did NOT disappoint!
Midnight Lies opens “5 months ago” so it was an interesting overlap with book 1 (Midnight Secrets) that gave us a more detailed account of what was going on in Samantha’s life at the time that we were focused on book 1 and the lives of Savannah and Zach. This might sound a little confusing as I try to explain it but believe me when I say that Ella Grace does the explaining much better than I do. Even if I had not read the first book I still would have been able to follow along…
Of the 3 sisters, Samantha is the one who has always dreamed of the white picket fence and children and happily-ever-after so until that happens she works as a detective in Atlanta. She meets the good doctor when their paths cross while both are on their respective jobs. Quinn and Sam have major chemistry and fall into a shallow yet satisfying ‘for now’ kind of relationship. Their feelings are tested and fail when Quinn is accused of the murder of his ex-wife. Sam quickly realizes that her doubts of Quinn’s innocence were unfounded and works quietly behind the scenes to clear the doctors name.
Sam heads home to Midnight to her safe haven in the arms of her sisters. When Quinn is hit over the head with the fact that Sam obviously cared enough to help clear his name he soon follows determined to win back her heart. The story continues to evolve while the girls take their first case in the detective agency and a mystery guy comes to town acting a little too fishy… and then there’s another murder that can conveniently be blamed on Quinn. This time Sam stands by her man!
Midnight Lies is a steamy romantic suspense that weaves a good story told from multiple points of view and kept me turning the pages to see what happened next. We get some tantalizing tid-bits into the next story featuring the 3rd sister Sabrina. I cannot wait to read it!!
Grade A
Review by: Jeananna
http://www.thebookreadinggals.com
Series: Wildefire book 2
Author: Ella Grace
Genre: Romantic Suspense
IT’S ALWAYS HOTTER AT MIDNIGHT.
The winds of fate have blown cruelly on a family that once had it all: money, power, prestige. The lives of three beautiful daughters were forever changed when, on a sultry night in Midnight, Alabama, a murder-suicide shattered the Wilde family. The girls grew up to live separate lives but now have returned home, each to face a danger no one can see coming.
Former homecoming queen Samantha surprised everyone by going into law enforcement, but beneath her tough façade lies a wary heart. The tragedy that struck her family is an ever-present reminder that nothing is ever as it seems. When the man she loves, Quinn Braddock, a doctor and Iraq war veteran, is accused of murder, Samantha assumes the worst. Brokenhearted, her confidence shattered, she returns to Midnight. Though exonerated, Quinn still feels the sting of Samantha’s doubt, but he can’t forget his feelings for her and follows her. Soon after his arrival, a shocking murder terrifies the town, and once again, Quinn is under suspicion. This time, Samantha will not turn her back on the man she loves—even if it means walking into a killer’s trap.
Let me start by saying that I reviewed the first book of the Wildefire series Midnight Secrets here on the blog and LOVED it. SO I was super excited be able to read the second book in the series a little early and have the numerous questions answered that I was left with at the end of the first book… and once again Ella Grace/Cindy Reece did NOT disappoint!
Midnight Lies opens “5 months ago” so it was an interesting overlap with book 1 (Midnight Secrets) that gave us a more detailed account of what was going on in Samantha’s life at the time that we were focused on book 1 and the lives of Savannah and Zach. This might sound a little confusing as I try to explain it but believe me when I say that Ella Grace does the explaining much better than I do. Even if I had not read the first book I still would have been able to follow along…
Of the 3 sisters, Samantha is the one who has always dreamed of the white picket fence and children and happily-ever-after so until that happens she works as a detective in Atlanta. She meets the good doctor when their paths cross while both are on their respective jobs. Quinn and Sam have major chemistry and fall into a shallow yet satisfying ‘for now’ kind of relationship. Their feelings are tested and fail when Quinn is accused of the murder of his ex-wife. Sam quickly realizes that her doubts of Quinn’s innocence were unfounded and works quietly behind the scenes to clear the doctors name.
Sam heads home to Midnight to her safe haven in the arms of her sisters. When Quinn is hit over the head with the fact that Sam obviously cared enough to help clear his name he soon follows determined to win back her heart. The story continues to evolve while the girls take their first case in the detective agency and a mystery guy comes to town acting a little too fishy… and then there’s another murder that can conveniently be blamed on Quinn. This time Sam stands by her man!
Midnight Lies is a steamy romantic suspense that weaves a good story told from multiple points of view and kept me turning the pages to see what happened next. We get some tantalizing tid-bits into the next story featuring the 3rd sister Sabrina. I cannot wait to read it!!
Grade A
Review by: Jeananna
http://www.thebookreadinggals.com
October 1, 2013
4.5 stars
Midnight Lies is book 2 in the Wildefire series by Ella Grace (aka Christy Reece). The first story, Midnight Secrets, was a good read, this one is not-to-be-missed.
Things I liked about this story:
1. There is dynamic chemistry between the two characters. Quinn Braddock is a veteran doctor, and a stoic, alpha male. He has tightened down his emotions stronger than a surgical clamp. Samantha is a new homicide detective. She is romantic. And although she escaped Midnight to live in the big city, she considers herself a small-town girl with traditional values. She is happily in love with Quinn but unfortunately for her, he is a "no commitment" kind of guy.
When Quinn gets accused of murdering his ex-wife, both their worlds turn upside down. I liked how this relationship developed. There is instant attraction but that happens before the book starts. The first obstacle facing the couple is trust. How well does Sam know Quinn? He is so emotionally closed, he's told her virtually nothing about himself. Without that foundation, doubts can and do sink in. On top of that, Sam carries with her family history in which her father committed a murder-suicide of her mother. The lack of trust fractures their relationship and circumstances are such that they break up but both end up in Midnight. The relationship is back and forth, up and down. It doesn't take a straight path and that keeps me involved.
When the two finally resolve their relationship issue, it is so sweet (*sigh*):
Do you want me to say that staying away from you for more than a minute is painful for me? That the thought of not having you in my life tears at my soul? That just seeing your face creates a peace inside me I've never felt before? That having you in my arms is like coming home?
2. There is a tense murder mystery. The story is layered and complex. I enjoyed very much how it unraveled. The author keeps the suspense tight and the story moving.
3. I really enjoy the relationship between the Wilde sisters - Samantha, Savannah, and Sabrina. They are protective of each other, but have no qualms about calling bullsh*t on one another. With each new book, we see another level of their relationship.
4. I love that it takes place in the small Southern town of Midnight. In some ways, Midnight is a character itself. The townsfolk are busybodies. But they stick their noses into things because they care. It is both comforting and suffocating - like a hot summer day.
IN A NUTSHELL:
I would highly recommend this book for the sweet and satisfying relationships and the intense, keeping-you-guessing, mystery. Yup, this one is great balance of both - guaranteed to keep you up late and leave a satisfying sigh at the end.
Thank you to the author, Random House Publishing Group - Ballantine, and Netgalley for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Midnight Lies is book 2 in the Wildefire series by Ella Grace (aka Christy Reece). The first story, Midnight Secrets, was a good read, this one is not-to-be-missed.
Things I liked about this story:
1. There is dynamic chemistry between the two characters. Quinn Braddock is a veteran doctor, and a stoic, alpha male. He has tightened down his emotions stronger than a surgical clamp. Samantha is a new homicide detective. She is romantic. And although she escaped Midnight to live in the big city, she considers herself a small-town girl with traditional values. She is happily in love with Quinn but unfortunately for her, he is a "no commitment" kind of guy.
When Quinn gets accused of murdering his ex-wife, both their worlds turn upside down. I liked how this relationship developed. There is instant attraction but that happens before the book starts. The first obstacle facing the couple is trust. How well does Sam know Quinn? He is so emotionally closed, he's told her virtually nothing about himself. Without that foundation, doubts can and do sink in. On top of that, Sam carries with her family history in which her father committed a murder-suicide of her mother. The lack of trust fractures their relationship and circumstances are such that they break up but both end up in Midnight. The relationship is back and forth, up and down. It doesn't take a straight path and that keeps me involved.
When the two finally resolve their relationship issue, it is so sweet (*sigh*):
Do you want me to say that staying away from you for more than a minute is painful for me? That the thought of not having you in my life tears at my soul? That just seeing your face creates a peace inside me I've never felt before? That having you in my arms is like coming home?
2. There is a tense murder mystery. The story is layered and complex. I enjoyed very much how it unraveled. The author keeps the suspense tight and the story moving.
3. I really enjoy the relationship between the Wilde sisters - Samantha, Savannah, and Sabrina. They are protective of each other, but have no qualms about calling bullsh*t on one another. With each new book, we see another level of their relationship.
4. I love that it takes place in the small Southern town of Midnight. In some ways, Midnight is a character itself. The townsfolk are busybodies. But they stick their noses into things because they care. It is both comforting and suffocating - like a hot summer day.
IN A NUTSHELL:
I would highly recommend this book for the sweet and satisfying relationships and the intense, keeping-you-guessing, mystery. Yup, this one is great balance of both - guaranteed to keep you up late and leave a satisfying sigh at the end.
Thank you to the author, Random House Publishing Group - Ballantine, and Netgalley for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
April 29, 2017
Midnight Lies
4 Stars
Synopsis:
Exonerated following the murder of his ex-wife, Quinn Braddock travels to Midnight, Alabama to win back the heart of the woman who means everything to him. Yet, a killer is waiting in the wings to destroy all that Quinn holds dear, including his love, Samantha Wilde.
Review:
Similar to the first book in the series, Midnight Lies is more of a contemporary romance than a romantic suspense novel despite the inclusion of a murder mystery.
Unlike the first book in which there are virtually no clues as to the killer's identity, the villain in this one is painfully obvious as there are no other suspects to be had, and the motive is completely transparent. Nevertheless, the build up to the climax is steady and the tension ratchets up a notch or two toward the end with an intense and thrilling resolution.
In terms of the romance Quinn and Sam have palpable chemistry, however, their inability to trust each other or even hold a single conversation without holding themselves in check begins to grate on the nerves. Their lack of communication leads to a tedious on/off relationship and, unfortunately, this makes it difficult to completely enjoy their story.
That said, Quinn is a scrumptious hero and his past family and marital history more than explain his reticence. The same cannot be said of Sam. Yes, she has trust issues with men, however, by acknowledging that Quinn seems too perfect to be true, she sets him up to fail and when Quinn is under suspicion for murder, the inevitable happens, and Sam allows her distrust to manifest itself. Consequently, Sam's betrayal sets the tone for her character throughout the book and she never manages to be as likable as her sister Savvy.
In terms of the setting and secondary characters, the small town nosiness and gossip mongering contributes greatly to the Southern atmosphere and characterization. We get to catch up on Zach and Savvy, as well as Logan and Brody, who are developing into potential heroes for their own books, and Bri's character is particularly intriguing. Looking forward to her book next.
Midnight Lies is scheduled for release on September 24, 2013. An advance copy of the book was provided to me for review by the publisher and NetGalley.com
4 Stars
Synopsis:
Exonerated following the murder of his ex-wife, Quinn Braddock travels to Midnight, Alabama to win back the heart of the woman who means everything to him. Yet, a killer is waiting in the wings to destroy all that Quinn holds dear, including his love, Samantha Wilde.
Review:
Similar to the first book in the series, Midnight Lies is more of a contemporary romance than a romantic suspense novel despite the inclusion of a murder mystery.
Unlike the first book in which there are virtually no clues as to the killer's identity, the villain in this one is painfully obvious as there are no other suspects to be had, and the motive is completely transparent. Nevertheless, the build up to the climax is steady and the tension ratchets up a notch or two toward the end with an intense and thrilling resolution.
In terms of the romance Quinn and Sam have palpable chemistry, however, their inability to trust each other or even hold a single conversation without holding themselves in check begins to grate on the nerves. Their lack of communication leads to a tedious on/off relationship and, unfortunately, this makes it difficult to completely enjoy their story.
That said, Quinn is a scrumptious hero and his past family and marital history more than explain his reticence. The same cannot be said of Sam. Yes, she has trust issues with men, however, by acknowledging that Quinn seems too perfect to be true, she sets him up to fail and when Quinn is under suspicion for murder, the inevitable happens, and Sam allows her distrust to manifest itself. Consequently, Sam's betrayal sets the tone for her character throughout the book and she never manages to be as likable as her sister Savvy.
In terms of the setting and secondary characters, the small town nosiness and gossip mongering contributes greatly to the Southern atmosphere and characterization. We get to catch up on Zach and Savvy, as well as Logan and Brody, who are developing into potential heroes for their own books, and Bri's character is particularly intriguing. Looking forward to her book next.
Midnight Lies is scheduled for release on September 24, 2013. An advance copy of the book was provided to me for review by the publisher and NetGalley.com
August 25, 2013
I RECEIVED THIS BOOK THROUGH NETGALLERY AND THE PUBLISHER FOR HONEST REVIEW. IT WAS AN UNCORRECTED COPY.
My first book by Ella Grace. It's #2 in the Wildefire series, but I have not read the first. I assume it will concern the Wilde sisters since this book is about Samantha Wilde and book 1 was Savannah Wilde. I am a sucker for Southern books, so this was set in Atlanta and in a small town called Midnight, Alabama.
Samantha Wilde is a cop in Atlanta dating the perfect man. Quinn Braddock is an ER doctor, fit, handsome, but secretive. When his ex is savagely murdered, Sam's loyalty is put to the test. Quinn and Sam have major chemistry, but both feel betrayed. Midnight Lies is a romantic suspense that weaves a good story with hot romance. Not too explicit for those that don't want it, but enough to keep the heat. Mystery and suspense, but I did figure out the bad guy before the climax. However, it was a surprise in the details. I am the person always trying to figure out the clues, so not the person to watch movie and tv with...I try not to blurt that stuff out loud.
Ella Grace will go on my authors to read list. A good southern romance with a bit of humor thrown in. A few spots were a bit repetitive, but I did get uncorrected copy. I suppose that could be changed. POV changes were smooth. Likeable characters. Enjoyed it! My TBR pile is overflowing, but I think I will go back to read book 1. I will look forward to book 3.
My first book by Ella Grace. It's #2 in the Wildefire series, but I have not read the first. I assume it will concern the Wilde sisters since this book is about Samantha Wilde and book 1 was Savannah Wilde. I am a sucker for Southern books, so this was set in Atlanta and in a small town called Midnight, Alabama.
Samantha Wilde is a cop in Atlanta dating the perfect man. Quinn Braddock is an ER doctor, fit, handsome, but secretive. When his ex is savagely murdered, Sam's loyalty is put to the test. Quinn and Sam have major chemistry, but both feel betrayed. Midnight Lies is a romantic suspense that weaves a good story with hot romance. Not too explicit for those that don't want it, but enough to keep the heat. Mystery and suspense, but I did figure out the bad guy before the climax. However, it was a surprise in the details. I am the person always trying to figure out the clues, so not the person to watch movie and tv with...I try not to blurt that stuff out loud.
Ella Grace will go on my authors to read list. A good southern romance with a bit of humor thrown in. A few spots were a bit repetitive, but I did get uncorrected copy. I suppose that could be changed. POV changes were smooth. Likeable characters. Enjoyed it! My TBR pile is overflowing, but I think I will go back to read book 1. I will look forward to book 3.
September 24, 2013
Midnight Lies is the second in Ella Grace’s Wildefire series about three sisters in a small southern town. Overall, the plotting was tight, the editing great and the characters sympathetic. I thought the suspense was well-done and the story kept me engaged.
But I had the same problem with this book as I had with the first book in this series. I thought the heroines were both fairly spineless and WAY too forgiving. WAY. There were many times I would read something asshole-ish the hero would do and the heroine would be all immediately forgiving. Samantha forgave Quinn way too easily. And fell into bed with him way too fast. Especially given what he’d done to her the last time they were in bed together. Seriously? And in my opinion, in this book as in real life when you don’t hold a person’s feet to the fire, they keep repeating the same actions towards you again and again. Quinn would push Sam away or be an ass and then be contrite. And Sam would immediately forgive him. End of story. It made me not respect her at all. And hello… the level of her guilt for thinking he’d done something when he hadn’t in the course of DOING HER JOB was not understandable. Dude, she’s a cop. She HAS to ask questions when a crime’s been committed. It’s not about you.
There is so much to like about this story. There is so much to like about the series. So much. But wimpy heroines killed it for me. I just got fed up.
But I had the same problem with this book as I had with the first book in this series. I thought the heroines were both fairly spineless and WAY too forgiving. WAY. There were many times I would read something asshole-ish the hero would do and the heroine would be all immediately forgiving. Samantha forgave Quinn way too easily. And fell into bed with him way too fast. Especially given what he’d done to her the last time they were in bed together. Seriously? And in my opinion, in this book as in real life when you don’t hold a person’s feet to the fire, they keep repeating the same actions towards you again and again. Quinn would push Sam away or be an ass and then be contrite. And Sam would immediately forgive him. End of story. It made me not respect her at all. And hello… the level of her guilt for thinking he’d done something when he hadn’t in the course of DOING HER JOB was not understandable. Dude, she’s a cop. She HAS to ask questions when a crime’s been committed. It’s not about you.
There is so much to like about this story. There is so much to like about the series. So much. But wimpy heroines killed it for me. I just got fed up.
March 21, 2018
Favorite Quote:
Do you want me to say that staying away from you for more than a minute is painful for me? That the thought of not having you in my life tears at my soul? That just seeing your face creates a peace inside me I’ve never felt before? That having you in my arms is like coming home?
What the story is about:
Second installment of the Wildefire series
This is Samantha’s story, former Homecoming Queen turned Homecide Detective.
It started 5 months ago, when Sam’s boyfriend Quinn Braddock, ER doctor and war veteran, was accused of murdering his ex-wife.
Due to Sam’s parents death she doubted Quinn which made everything fall apart on their relationship.
Feedback on the Story:
4 Stars
Midnight Lies is much better than the first book in the series. This was fast-paced and you’ll love every page. The twist in the story was interesting enough for me. I really love Quinn, there’s just something about him you’ll like while you read this book.
I definitely recommend this book.
Do you want me to say that staying away from you for more than a minute is painful for me? That the thought of not having you in my life tears at my soul? That just seeing your face creates a peace inside me I’ve never felt before? That having you in my arms is like coming home?
What the story is about:
Second installment of the Wildefire series
This is Samantha’s story, former Homecoming Queen turned Homecide Detective.
It started 5 months ago, when Sam’s boyfriend Quinn Braddock, ER doctor and war veteran, was accused of murdering his ex-wife.
Due to Sam’s parents death she doubted Quinn which made everything fall apart on their relationship.
Feedback on the Story:
4 Stars
Midnight Lies is much better than the first book in the series. This was fast-paced and you’ll love every page. The twist in the story was interesting enough for me. I really love Quinn, there’s just something about him you’ll like while you read this book.
I definitely recommend this book.
August 5, 2016
3.5 Stars
Midnight Lies is the second book in The Wildefire Series by Ella Grace (aka Christy Reece). Though I haven’t read the first book I had no problems following the story and characters, so it could be read as a stand-alone but would probably be better appreciated if read in order. I enjoyed it but found myself a little bored at different points in the story. The relationship between Quinn and Samantha was on and off through most of the book. It seems when one wanted the other, the other didn’t and back and forth which got old fast. I just wanted to say enough already either get together or stay apart but make up your minds.
What I liked about Midnight lies is the overall story and the well-crafted characters. They are nicely fleshed out and you get a real feel for who they are. We also get glimpses of future books including Samantha’s sister Sabrina’s story, which I now find myself curious to read.
Midnight Lies is recommended to fans of The Wildefire Series and Romantic Suspense.
Midnight Lies is the second book in The Wildefire Series by Ella Grace (aka Christy Reece). Though I haven’t read the first book I had no problems following the story and characters, so it could be read as a stand-alone but would probably be better appreciated if read in order. I enjoyed it but found myself a little bored at different points in the story. The relationship between Quinn and Samantha was on and off through most of the book. It seems when one wanted the other, the other didn’t and back and forth which got old fast. I just wanted to say enough already either get together or stay apart but make up your minds.
What I liked about Midnight lies is the overall story and the well-crafted characters. They are nicely fleshed out and you get a real feel for who they are. We also get glimpses of future books including Samantha’s sister Sabrina’s story, which I now find myself curious to read.
Midnight Lies is recommended to fans of The Wildefire Series and Romantic Suspense.
October 29, 2013
Samantha Wilde
Quinn Braddock
MAN That was good! I mean good! Quinn has some issues. I understand, we all have something but man I wanted to slap him a few times. He's lucky to have Samantha and I hope he over his emotional lock downs that require him to push her away. But I digress. His parents were some kind of work! I'm still not over the way things have shaken out at the end. I'm just flabbergasted. I keep wanting to reason it out but you can't, there is just too much crazy. I think a bit too much focus was on Bri's up coming story but I'm still very excited to read it. 4 Stars
For more thoughts click the link below
Read With Me: Midnight Lies
Quinn Braddock
MAN That was good! I mean good! Quinn has some issues. I understand, we all have something but man I wanted to slap him a few times. He's lucky to have Samantha and I hope he over his emotional lock downs that require him to push her away. But I digress. His parents were some kind of work! I'm still not over the way things have shaken out at the end. I'm just flabbergasted. I keep wanting to reason it out but you can't, there is just too much crazy. I think a bit too much focus was on Bri's up coming story but I'm still very excited to read it. 4 Stars
For more thoughts click the link below
Read With Me: Midnight Lies
August 27, 2016
4/5
Pour son deuxième livre sous ce pseudo, l'auteur nous offre un romantic suspense malin et bien mené, avec des personnages principaux réalistes et attachants même si par moments je les aurais bien secoués pour leur remettre les idées en place !! Et point positif pour moi qui craint un peu ça, l'ambiance petite ville y est sympathique sans être pesante.
Chronique complète
Pour son deuxième livre sous ce pseudo, l'auteur nous offre un romantic suspense malin et bien mené, avec des personnages principaux réalistes et attachants même si par moments je les aurais bien secoués pour leur remettre les idées en place !! Et point positif pour moi qui craint un peu ça, l'ambiance petite ville y est sympathique sans être pesante.
Chronique complète
October 13, 2013
really liking this series! review to come!
March 21, 2017
I won this book for free through the GoodRead Giveaway Program. I recommend picking up a copy to read and sharing your own thoughts here as well.
From the very beginning, just like book one, it was action pack and heart/gut wrenching. I highly recommend reading the first in this series first. You'll understand more coming into it and not have lingering questions.
During the first book, there were hints of Samantha going through something. She kept it from her sisters at the time so it was never revealed. In this novel, a short passage said, "I told my sisters, we share everything. Part of me would have liked to read how she shared her story but another part of me was grateful it didn't get extensive. The issue she was going through was what she went through with Quinn - that's what was bothering her in book one.
The sisters also all agreed to start the security agency together. At the end of the first book, there was no answer as to if all three sisters would be on board. I liked that, in a sense, we picked up present day where book one left off. It's a handful of months after book one concluded. I liked that we're not following the same plot line simultaneously from a different point of view.
Savannah, from book one, is pregnant now too. This is a big deal (again read book one first) but I don't know how I felt about it. In book one we really focused on Savannah and Zach. Now, with their pregnancy, we're focused a bit on them and not as much on Samantha. I rather focus on Samantha - get to know her, feel like her and think like her - like we did in book one with Savannah.
However, once the excitement of the beginning wears off, this novel went slow. It was a lot of back and forth over do I trust him, should I let him back in my life - tit for tat. It didn't pick back up again until 100 pages later when the murder happened and everyone sprung into action.
I did have to look up what FUBAR meant. Please google it yourself if you are unsure. It contains vulgar language and I don't want my post or account flagged. Thank you lol :)
I thought I found a typo when Quinn's thoughts say "Dalton would correctly assume he was armed." I got confused mixing characters thinking that Quinn left Dalton hours ago tied up three miles outside midnight; Quinn was going in now to face Blaine. So, I thought Dalton in the sentence should have been Blaine. BUT! I was mistaken. Dalton was Quinn's brother's name. I got Dalton and Dayton (from the Clark, Clay and Lindsay group) mixed up.
This one was good. A little slow to begin but the action picked up and held throughout the novel. You also want to shake Samantha at times but that shows how invested you become with these characters.
3 out of 4 Stars
From the very beginning, just like book one, it was action pack and heart/gut wrenching. I highly recommend reading the first in this series first. You'll understand more coming into it and not have lingering questions.
During the first book, there were hints of Samantha going through something. She kept it from her sisters at the time so it was never revealed. In this novel, a short passage said, "I told my sisters, we share everything. Part of me would have liked to read how she shared her story but another part of me was grateful it didn't get extensive. The issue she was going through was what she went through with Quinn - that's what was bothering her in book one.
The sisters also all agreed to start the security agency together. At the end of the first book, there was no answer as to if all three sisters would be on board. I liked that, in a sense, we picked up present day where book one left off. It's a handful of months after book one concluded. I liked that we're not following the same plot line simultaneously from a different point of view.
Savannah, from book one, is pregnant now too. This is a big deal (again read book one first) but I don't know how I felt about it. In book one we really focused on Savannah and Zach. Now, with their pregnancy, we're focused a bit on them and not as much on Samantha. I rather focus on Samantha - get to know her, feel like her and think like her - like we did in book one with Savannah.
However, once the excitement of the beginning wears off, this novel went slow. It was a lot of back and forth over do I trust him, should I let him back in my life - tit for tat. It didn't pick back up again until 100 pages later when the murder happened and everyone sprung into action.
I did have to look up what FUBAR meant. Please google it yourself if you are unsure. It contains vulgar language and I don't want my post or account flagged. Thank you lol :)
I thought I found a typo when Quinn's thoughts say "Dalton would correctly assume he was armed." I got confused mixing characters thinking that Quinn left Dalton hours ago tied up three miles outside midnight; Quinn was going in now to face Blaine. So, I thought Dalton in the sentence should have been Blaine. BUT! I was mistaken. Dalton was Quinn's brother's name. I got Dalton and Dayton (from the Clark, Clay and Lindsay group) mixed up.
This one was good. A little slow to begin but the action picked up and held throughout the novel. You also want to shake Samantha at times but that shows how invested you become with these characters.
3 out of 4 Stars
September 9, 2021
Samantha Wilde is with the Atlanta Police Department and goes to Quinn Braddock when she learns he’s been accused of his ex-wife’s murder. Although she has doubts that Quinn sees in her eyes, she goes to bat for him and finds witnesses who testify that another man entered his ex-wife’s house before Quinn arrived. Sam quits the police force and goes to her hometown of Midnight, Alabama to open a security business with her sisters. Quinn buys a house and plans to stay too. Another woman is murdered and Quinn is accused but he was with Sam. Who hates him so much that they are willing to murder women to frame him? He is determined that Sam will not be the next victim.
There is a stranger in town. Blaine Marshall comes across as friendly but there is something off about him. He wants to be more than friends with Sam but Quinn is the only man for her. Savannah digs deep and finds disturbing information on Blaine that answers a lot of questions.
Quinn had told Sam he did not want marriage but finds himself in love with the woman who brings him peace and perfect love. Sam finds the same with Quinn and, if marriage is not in the cards, she's okay with that. She can't lose Quinn.
Midnight Lies and the earlier book Midnight Secrets are both well-written and highly recommended.
There is a stranger in town. Blaine Marshall comes across as friendly but there is something off about him. He wants to be more than friends with Sam but Quinn is the only man for her. Savannah digs deep and finds disturbing information on Blaine that answers a lot of questions.
Quinn had told Sam he did not want marriage but finds himself in love with the woman who brings him peace and perfect love. Sam finds the same with Quinn and, if marriage is not in the cards, she's okay with that. She can't lose Quinn.
Midnight Lies and the earlier book Midnight Secrets are both well-written and highly recommended.
May 27, 2018
Read this as part of the ongoing project to help a friend compile a booklist for her group, Adult children of Parents with PTSD.
There are certain flaws in this novel one has to be ready to overlook. Quinn's marriage and divorce before the book begins is implausible. While it is necessary to set up the plot, I thought it was too contrived to be forgiven.
Another thing I found implausible was the characters of Quinn's parents. I just don't believe there is any parent who would act the way they did.
As for the way Quinn's PTSD is resolved, oh come on. That news doesn't make up for the abuse.
Additionally, there were places where the story dragged a bit and I found it a chore to keep reading. Indeed, I took a break in order to play Mah Jongg solitaire and Klondike Solitaire on my computer.
When the author concentrated it was quite enjoyable. However, there was too much set up for the next 2 books in the series. An author needs to concentrate on the story at hand.
There are certain flaws in this novel one has to be ready to overlook. Quinn's marriage and divorce before the book begins is implausible. While it is necessary to set up the plot, I thought it was too contrived to be forgiven.
Another thing I found implausible was the characters of Quinn's parents. I just don't believe there is any parent who would act the way they did.
As for the way Quinn's PTSD is resolved, oh come on. That news doesn't make up for the abuse.
Additionally, there were places where the story dragged a bit and I found it a chore to keep reading. Indeed, I took a break in order to play Mah Jongg solitaire and Klondike Solitaire on my computer.
When the author concentrated it was quite enjoyable. However, there was too much set up for the next 2 books in the series. An author needs to concentrate on the story at hand.
June 11, 2019
I found this a mediocre romance that only occasionally kept me turning the pages. With a cover misleading the reader to expect a military-related story, we get, instead, a zombie-like doctor who seems to have no passion for anything but sex, and a wimpy police detective with the same tendencies. Their sexual attraction isn’t enough to sustain this story, and the bad guy becomes apparent well before one character discovers the truth. The number thirteen is a pretty weak clue. Academically well written, this story does hold a few good patches but could have been improved by condensing.
September 3, 2013
http://ripeforreader.blogspot.ca/2013...
For many years three sisters had lived with the burden that their father had murdered their mother, after which he committed suicide. They were only ten years old. Then five months ago, they discovered that what they had believed to be true all these years was wrong. Their parents were in fact murdered and no proper investigation was ever done.....
Samantha, one of the Wilde triplets, had returned home to Midnight five months ago, quitting her job on the force. At the time the man she was seeing had been accused of murdering his ex-wife, and even though Samantha had been able to prove he was not responsible, there was no way she was able to undo her initial uncertainty regarding his guilt or innocence. So after a painful confrontation, she left to return home, heartbroken. Now she is a shadow of her former self, but determined to get back on her feet, especially with the new private investigation business she and her sisters have started up, signing on their first client.
Nothing could have surprised Quinn Braddock more, than finding out after five months that the person responsible for getting him off the book for the murder of his ex was in fact Samantha. He has nursed his bitterness over the past months, believing that she hadn't trusted in him. The real killer has not been caught, and apparently having been absolved of any responsibility doesn't stop the rumours from flying. His work as a physician at the hospital is under a lot of scrutiny and his position on staff questioned. So he decides to take some vacation time and visit Midnight.
Samantha cannot believe Quinn is standing outside her house in Midnight apologizing and wanting to talk, just as she has resolved to move on. So she sends him away, or at least tries to, but he seems determined to talk to her and is not willing to give up. Samantha realizes she is not willing to let go quite yet either. But when another woman is murdered in exactly the same way as Quinn's ex, except this time in Midnight, all suspicion falls back on Quinn. All except Samantha's.
Determined not to fail her man twice, Samantha is unwavering in her support of Quinn, and she will do anything to prove his innocence. Even face off with a killer........
*******
OMG!!!!! Fantastic knockout page-turner!!
Seriously crushing on Quinn, dolt that he is. He is also a very determined man once he has his sights set. And his focus is clear, although his technique and his follow through could use some finessing. But in the end he gets the job done, and that's what counts, although he left a few too many holes to screw up.......just like a guy! I love that he seems such an unassuming man at first, a doctor, not someone you'd necessarily peg as badass, but boy, is he ever a badass, even though that part of him doesn't really show up until further along in the book. His hang ups about long term commitments are understandable given his family history and I can't really fault him for feeling that way, but wouldn't life be so much easier if those considerations were explained once in a while, instead of guarding them like state secrets???
Samantha is such a tough marshmallow. She can hold her own with ease and won't be pushed around or knocked over without doing some serious damage herself, physically she is hard as nails. Even mentally, when the job requires it, but emotionally, when it comes to things close to her heart, she becomes a puddle. Her sister's, her family, her community and Quinn, those are all 'weak' spots for her. Growing up thinking that the father you spent the first ten years of your life adoring, suddenly turned on your mother, murdered her and then committed suicide, messes with your head. It causes you to question your judgement when it comes to the people you love. Which is exactly what happened when Quinn was accused of murdering his ex, a momentary flash of Samantha's insecurity. It didn't last long, but long enough to damage if not destroy any trust between them.
Absolutely loved the character development in the book. Both main characters seem to be quite established at the onset, but looks are deceiving as becomes clear quickly. During the course of the book, the many protective layers start peeling off, and the more 'naked' the personalities become, the more true their interactions are. Outlooks change as people evolve and emerge and suddenly the possibilities are endless, when there were none before.
And all this goes on in rhythm with the most kick-ass, roller coaster suspense and some of the yummiest sex I've read in combination!!! A hella good book!!!!! Ella Grace, you've got a fan!
✨A sharp, steamy, fierce and phenomenal read!✨
**ARC courtesy of NetGalley and Ballantine Books in return for an honest review.**
This book is the second in the Wildfire series, each an individual story, devoted to one of the sisters, loosely connected by a cast and a set of circumstances that brought them all together. First in line was Savannah's story, MIDNIGHT SECRETS, and the collection point for all of the pivotal characters in the series. In the third book it will be Sabrina's turn.
For many years three sisters had lived with the burden that their father had murdered their mother, after which he committed suicide. They were only ten years old. Then five months ago, they discovered that what they had believed to be true all these years was wrong. Their parents were in fact murdered and no proper investigation was ever done.....
Samantha, one of the Wilde triplets, had returned home to Midnight five months ago, quitting her job on the force. At the time the man she was seeing had been accused of murdering his ex-wife, and even though Samantha had been able to prove he was not responsible, there was no way she was able to undo her initial uncertainty regarding his guilt or innocence. So after a painful confrontation, she left to return home, heartbroken. Now she is a shadow of her former self, but determined to get back on her feet, especially with the new private investigation business she and her sisters have started up, signing on their first client.
Nothing could have surprised Quinn Braddock more, than finding out after five months that the person responsible for getting him off the book for the murder of his ex was in fact Samantha. He has nursed his bitterness over the past months, believing that she hadn't trusted in him. The real killer has not been caught, and apparently having been absolved of any responsibility doesn't stop the rumours from flying. His work as a physician at the hospital is under a lot of scrutiny and his position on staff questioned. So he decides to take some vacation time and visit Midnight.
Samantha cannot believe Quinn is standing outside her house in Midnight apologizing and wanting to talk, just as she has resolved to move on. So she sends him away, or at least tries to, but he seems determined to talk to her and is not willing to give up. Samantha realizes she is not willing to let go quite yet either. But when another woman is murdered in exactly the same way as Quinn's ex, except this time in Midnight, all suspicion falls back on Quinn. All except Samantha's.
Determined not to fail her man twice, Samantha is unwavering in her support of Quinn, and she will do anything to prove his innocence. Even face off with a killer........
*******
OMG!!!!! Fantastic knockout page-turner!!
Seriously crushing on Quinn, dolt that he is. He is also a very determined man once he has his sights set. And his focus is clear, although his technique and his follow through could use some finessing. But in the end he gets the job done, and that's what counts, although he left a few too many holes to screw up.......just like a guy! I love that he seems such an unassuming man at first, a doctor, not someone you'd necessarily peg as badass, but boy, is he ever a badass, even though that part of him doesn't really show up until further along in the book. His hang ups about long term commitments are understandable given his family history and I can't really fault him for feeling that way, but wouldn't life be so much easier if those considerations were explained once in a while, instead of guarding them like state secrets???
Samantha is such a tough marshmallow. She can hold her own with ease and won't be pushed around or knocked over without doing some serious damage herself, physically she is hard as nails. Even mentally, when the job requires it, but emotionally, when it comes to things close to her heart, she becomes a puddle. Her sister's, her family, her community and Quinn, those are all 'weak' spots for her. Growing up thinking that the father you spent the first ten years of your life adoring, suddenly turned on your mother, murdered her and then committed suicide, messes with your head. It causes you to question your judgement when it comes to the people you love. Which is exactly what happened when Quinn was accused of murdering his ex, a momentary flash of Samantha's insecurity. It didn't last long, but long enough to damage if not destroy any trust between them.
Absolutely loved the character development in the book. Both main characters seem to be quite established at the onset, but looks are deceiving as becomes clear quickly. During the course of the book, the many protective layers start peeling off, and the more 'naked' the personalities become, the more true their interactions are. Outlooks change as people evolve and emerge and suddenly the possibilities are endless, when there were none before.
And all this goes on in rhythm with the most kick-ass, roller coaster suspense and some of the yummiest sex I've read in combination!!! A hella good book!!!!! Ella Grace, you've got a fan!
✨A sharp, steamy, fierce and phenomenal read!✨
**ARC courtesy of NetGalley and Ballantine Books in return for an honest review.**
This book is the second in the Wildfire series, each an individual story, devoted to one of the sisters, loosely connected by a cast and a set of circumstances that brought them all together. First in line was Savannah's story, MIDNIGHT SECRETS, and the collection point for all of the pivotal characters in the series. In the third book it will be Sabrina's turn.
August 1, 2017
What i like abt Elle Grace
Is she nv fail to build suspense in a romance
I nv guess what the murderer is, nor i see the connection .
Really cnt wait to see what's awaiting in book 3
Is she nv fail to build suspense in a romance
I nv guess what the murderer is, nor i see the connection .
Really cnt wait to see what's awaiting in book 3
July 5, 2018
I do like the mysteries/suspense aspects of this series, but I have a lukewarm reaction to everything else. I don’t have a great urge to continue with the series.
contemporary
December 26, 202119
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