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In Name Only

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No home. No family. No place to hide. For Summer Newcombe, that's only the beginning.The night Summer escapes from a burning Padre Island eatery and discovers the arsonist is stalking her, is the same night she meets Fire Captain Gabriel Duran. As much as she's attracted to Gabe, five years in the Federal Witness Security Program because of her father’s testimony against a mob boss have taught her the importance of being alone and invisible.No matter how much she yearns for a real home, Summer relinquished that option the night she killed the man who murdered her father. But Gabe breaks down her guard and places both of them in danger. Summer has vowed never to kill again, but she's frantic she'll cost Gabe his life unless she stops running and fights for the future she wants with the man she loves.

322 pages, Kindle Edition

First published June 26, 2012

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About the author

Carol Kilgore

14 books342 followers
Carol Kilgore is the author of Jalapeno Cupcake Wench, Secrets of Honor, Solomon's Compass, and In Name Only.

Carol Kilgore is the award-winning author of the Amazing Gracie Mysteries—Jalapeno Cupcake Wench, Bluebonnet Ballerina, Don't Mess with Gracie, and Gracie and the Trouble with Pinatas. In addition, she is the author of In Name Only, Solomon’s Compass, and Secrets of Honor, three standalone romantic suspense novels set along the Texas Gulf Coast.

She is currently working on a new series--The House Witches Mysteries--set in a fictional version of her new hometown northwest of Houston. The first book in this series is Witches and Fairies and Tacos... Oh My.

She and her husband share their home with the sweetest rescue beagle ever, who wishes they would drop more food on the floor.

You can learn more about Carol and receive a free copy of Jalapeno Cupcake Wench by subscribing to her newsletter here: https://www.carolkilgore.net

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5 stars
77 (55%)
4 stars
39 (28%)
3 stars
15 (10%)
2 stars
5 (3%)
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2 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
Profile Image for Michelle.
267 reviews71 followers
February 3, 2013
This debut novel has a great mixture of suspense, action, romance... throw in good guys, a crazy stalker and a killer... there's something for everybody!

I love Summer Newcombe, a strong-spirited, feisty woman, who has lived several lives and taken on numerous identities within a Witness Protection Programme.
The setting of Padre Island with its sights, sounds and smells - the beach, the Texas sun, the local folk and their close-knit-community lifestyle and their customs, lent a distinct atmosphere to the story.

I love the way in which certain relationships developed and unfolded, and these are the moments that really captured my attention...
~when Summer and Maxie went out that first time and Maxie confides things about herself... I love those moments, especially Maxie's intuition and sensitivity where Summer was concerned... how she recognises a sort of kindred spirit..
~when Gabe takes the initiative and calls a truce with Charlie over a six-pack of beers, there was a lump in my throat...especially when Charlie acknowledges Gabe's strength of character, a difficult thing for a stubborn old man like him, and the two share a long overdue father-son moment as they attempt to clear the air, address past misunderstandings which have driven a wedge between them...

Each character has his/her own seperate identity and storyline, which all come together as the tension ebbs and flows. The issue of self-identity is highlighted, and the way in which the plot twists and turns, and how life throws unexpected surprises at the characters, will leave you speechless at the end.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Barb.
1,203 reviews
August 24, 2013
Carol Kilgore is the most imaginative writer out there. This debut book of hers is one everyone needs to put on her TBR list. It starts out quick and draws you right in. There is always a surprise on each page. The ending, is one i'll never forget. Totally not expecting the ending. This was a lesson to me. I won this book after entering her contest, otherwise i may not have read it. It would
have been my biggest mistake. Thank you Carol for a great novel. I will be looking for your next book. 5 star only because it didn't give me a 6 star option.

I won this book at Goodreads. So glad i did.
Profile Image for Katy.
1,522 reviews7 followers
August 8, 2021
A linguist in the witness protection program, a fire at the fire chief's father's business The Pink Tortilla, a stalker who likes to rape his victims and then burn them, a mobster who wants the score evened, and the fire that was suppose to destroy the business that was working on a hydrogen generator

The elements of a great story, with lots of twists and turns

I'd read it again.
Profile Image for Mason.
Author 2 books25 followers
July 18, 2012
Sometimes running from something can cause you to run smack dab into the most unexpected turn of events.

Summer Newcombe is a hardworking woman, minds her own business, and is quick to react to dire situations. When a fire breaks out in the restaurant where she’s working, Summer helps rescue customers and even saves the cash register.

But Summer has dark secrets that keep her looking over her shoulder and unable to get close to anyone for fear they’ll be killed.

Fire Captain Gabriel Duran is a dedicated fireman who is drawn to Summer. He has his share of problems, including his dad - Summer’s boss.

Overcoming Summer’s past, her current enrollment in the Federal Witness Security Program, and the fact someone is stalking her has its ups and downs. But Summer and Gabe can’t resist their attraction as the sparks between them ignite.

Author Carol Kilgore has created a strong and feisty protagonist in Summer with a trace of vulnerability. Meanwhile, Gabe has all the qualities of a hero while still being the ‘boy next door.’ The main characters, as well as the secondary, are well defined, realistic and very likable each with their own unique quirks.

Kilgore’s vivid description of the setting places the reader there with the characters to experience what they do. She brings the sights, sounds and smells to life through her dialogue and descriptions adding another layer to the story.

The story moves at a good pace with twists and turns along the way to keep you guessing what will happen next. The ebb and flow of the tension holds you spellbound from the opening paragraph until the dramatic conclusion. The steamy interaction between Summer and Gabe will leave you breathless and the outcome speechless.

IN NAME ONLY is a well balanced mix of mystery, intrigue, romance, and humor that will stay with you long after you’ve read the last sentence.

Author Carol Kilgore’s website is www.carolkilgore.net
 
In Name Only by Carol Kilgore, CreateSpace, @2012, ISBN: 978-1477492239, Paperback, 320 Pages, eBook version 831 KB, ASIN: B008FC80G2

FTC Full Disclosure - This eBook was sent to me by the author in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review.
Profile Image for Laurel-Rain.
Author 6 books257 followers
December 15, 2012
For many years before she landed on Padre Island, Summer Newcombe lived several lives and numerous identities as part of the Witness Protection Program. But finding herself in this particular restaurant when a fire broke out that threatened lives and almost took her own could have been a fluke.

But Summer doesn't really believe in accidents...or coincidences.

However, meeting the hunky firefighter who rescues her after she has risked her life for others is just another in a series of moments that will change her mind about serendipity.

Gabe Duran turns out to be the son of Summer's landlord....and the serendipitous moments just keep happening.

How does the wise old woman named Maxie, who lives in the adjacent condo, figure into the mysterious connections adding up to create a whole new kind of life? Are they part of her mysterious past, or is something else going on?

But not all things coming together in this new place are good things. What is driving the perverted stalker who lives nearby? How will his plot to steal secrets about a life-changing invention somehow connect him to Summer? And who is the man who keeps showing up to supposedly "help" Summer? What is his agenda?

"In Name Only" is a story about secrets, mysterious mobsters, and how life can sometimes dish up more surprises than anticipated. Romantic moments fit themselves into this scenario as if they are unexpected treats. Some of the surprises toward the end were almost too perfect, but I did enjoy them. Who knew what unexpected connections might form, and seemingly out of nowhere? An enjoyable, somewhat predictable, four star read.
Profile Image for Linda Kage.
Author 52 books5,541 followers
August 6, 2012
Recipe for the prefect heartwarming yet fun Tex-Mex mystery novel.

Start with one heroine in the witness protection program on the run from the mob who knows how to track her. Fill her with plenty of paranoia and self-defense training but keep her compassionate and brave.

Mix in two—not just one—cups full of bad guys. To keep things fun and wonky, make one of the bad guys a total screw up so that he fails at EVERY bad things he tries to do until you almost feel sorry for the creepy perverted stalker!

Add in a hand full of points-of-view from some quirky supporting characters and detail their life stories to emanate that down-home loving feel and to add depth. Flavor with some romance with a hunky fire fighter. Set them in the Texas sun for some deliciously original scenery , and there you have Carol Kilgore’s book, IN NAME ONLY.

I like the cozy feel of this story. I like how each character—even Chica—has their own agenda. And yet all the separate stories come together to make one united whole. And let me just say: I so KNEW something was going to happen between Summer and Heinrich (haha, I feel so smart) because they never met until the end, though my guess had been granddaughter (I thought he was much older for some strange reason)! But, yeah, I liked this one. It had as much soothing, emotional healing as it did action and mystery. And I always appreciate a good mix like that!
Profile Image for Clarissa Draper.
Author 2 books39 followers
July 16, 2012
What a hot ride!

From chapter one, Carol Kilgore pulls you into an adventure. Summer Newcombe, a woman hiding on Padre Island, notices a fire in the restaurant where she works and saves not only all the patrons but the money as well. Who started the fire? Will she have to move again?

And, above all, how can she get the name of that hunky fire captain, Gabe Duran?

Summer is in the Witness Protection Program because her father testified against the mob and even though her parents are not around anymore, she is still hunted. The character is strong. She is capable of solving her own mysteries but it does provide the book with tension and creates quite a thrill ride.

One thing I really liked about the book was the setting. I've been to Padre Island and I felt I was taken back again. The beach, the heat, the customs and even the language brought you into the story and the place.

From the book: "What anyone saw in this godforsaken hellhole was beyond him. Itchy, gritty, and hotter than a naked nun in a hot tub."

Pick up this debut novel today!


Profile Image for Medeia Sharif.
Author 20 books459 followers
August 26, 2012
Summer is always restarting her life in a new location. She’s in the witness protection program. Her father had some info against a mobster and he was killed. Hitmen are in pursuit of her and have found her several times in the past, which is why she jumps from town to town. Summer ends up in Texas. When an arsonist targets the restaurant she works at, Summer finds a friend and possible lover in a firefighter named Gabe. But it’s hard to get close to people after she’s lost both parents and when stalkers and mobsters are on her tail. Summer wants to stay, rather than move again, but she’ll have to fight off the men who skulk around her home and act like her shadow.

This book has a great balance of action and romance. Summer’s a strong character and Gabe is the perfect match for her. The way things unraveled and how mysteries were revealed keeps the writing tight and interesting. This is a winner in the romantic suspense category.
Profile Image for Melissa Maygrove.
Author 14 books34 followers
June 2, 2013
I'm so glad I read this book! I enjoyed it from beginning to end. Not only did the characters' losses tug at my heart, there was enough of a romantic element to satisfy this romance reader. And my heart warmed at the mention of Baffin Bay. My father used to take me fishing there when I was a kid.

The plot is well crafted, the pacing is brisk and smooth, and the characters are complex and likeable. Kilgore weaves the story's many threads and brings the events to a thrilling ending, and then throws in a twist that I didn't see coming until it was nearly upon me. Well done!

This book has it all--lovely coastal setting; strong, resourceful heroine; hunky fireman hero; evil villains; and lots of interesting supporting characters you'll wish lived next door. In Name Only is very much worth your time to read.

Profile Image for Kyra.
Author 46 books300 followers
October 17, 2012
I couldn't put this book down from the second I started reading it! Carol Kilgore is wonderful! The characters are so real, you feel like you could step inside the story and just hang out with them. I absolutely loved Maxie!

I am almost hesitant to say this, but one of my biggest issues with books are the endings. I wasn't crazy about the enormous, bizarre twist that came when Summer met Heinrich. It was too big a coincidence for me to really enjoy it. It would have been five stars if things had tied up differently.

Even so, my enjoyment of the rest of the story was so high that the ending didn't ruin it. I can't wait to read anything else Carol Kilgore publishes!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Hart Johnson.
Author 24 books48 followers
July 30, 2012
This story had a fabulous pace, a tightly woven plot, and well developed characters that kept pulling me back to reading, even when I was supposed to be doing other things.

Summer Newcombe is having to start over. Again. She does that a lot as someone in the witness protection program, but when she finds herself on Padre Island in the Gulf there are several things that make her wish she could finally just settle down and stay somewhere. Unfortunately, her past is still right on her tail.

I really think this is a fabulous debut and look forward to more from the author.
Profile Image for Talli Roland.
Author 19 books301 followers
September 13, 2012
A terrific debut from Carol Kilgore!

Due to time constraints, I read this novel over a few weeks. Each time I picked it up, I was eager to dive in and see how the main character, a feisty woman called Summer, was faring. I loved the characters Kilgore created - each was rounded and well-developed, with their own voice and story to tell. The plot clips along and with plenty of action, it was hard to put down! A fantastic read.
Profile Image for Julie Flanders.
Author 10 books169 followers
July 23, 2012
In Name Only is a perfect blend of romance and suspense, and the characters of Summer and Gabe are engaging and well-drawn.

I always love stories with strong female characters, and Summer fits the bill. I also loved the setting of Padre Island, I've never been there but I love beach towns and felt like I was there while I was reading.

I'm looking forward to reading more from Carol!
Profile Image for Jemi Fraser.
Author 38 books77 followers
August 4, 2012
Great story Carol! I loved how the layers intertwined. Great suspense story wrapped around that romance! :)
104 reviews1 follower
July 21, 2019
Take a remarkable, brave, intelligent, resourceful woman, whatever and whenever her name, add a wonderful cast of characters, a confluence of dysfunctional criminals, a fast paced and engaging plot, an old lady and a dog, tragedy with hope, romance and love, laughter with pain, and you come up with "In Name Only."
Carol Kilgore's book is so well written, such a joy to read, that I can't give it high enough praise.
Disclaimer: my father was a fire fighter. So of course I love any book with a hero firefighter.
831 reviews
May 24, 2022
Good read with a few unnecessary subplots

Summer is new town and has a deadly secret. Gabe is the local fire captain. They meet when the restaurant where she works is set on fire. Before their romance can get off the ground they have to catch an arsonist, a stalker and a mob hit man. The main story between Summer and Gabe is well written but the secondary storylines don't add much in my opinion. This is a romantic suspense novel with mild heat and action.
43 reviews
July 2, 2020
I enjoyed the twists and surprises in the book. The writing was well done. I prefer clean romances.
47 reviews
July 26, 2020
Life in Witness Protection

Clever weaving of plot. Charming characters. Well researched. Surprised by ending. Excellent first book. Will keep an eye out for more from this author.
53 reviews
December 24, 2020
Surprise ending

The characters were realistic and likable. The story line kept me up too late. I love happy endings. It was a good surprise!
4,417 reviews42 followers
March 22, 2022
Who started the fire and why??? How many different names does Summer have now??? I enjoyed the story and recommend the book.
Profile Image for Chanel.
1,833 reviews
June 10, 2019
I was totally enthralled with this book, as there were a couple of different story lines all going on at the same time. I enjoyed both of the main characters and there certainly was quite a group of supporting cast. The book ends with a real twist. 4.75 Stars
Profile Image for Jan.
Author 23 books70 followers
March 3, 2013
A wonderful setting and unique premise for this suspense novel pull you in and keep you reading until The End. Protagonist Summer Newcombe, through no fault of her own, is in the Federal Witness Security Program. After many moves, she hopes she has come to a place she can stay for a long, long time on North Padre Island. Especially after the exciting Corpus Christi Fire Captain rescues her from the burning restaurant where she's just started to work.

But a creepy stalker and a mobster from her father's past have other ideas. Summer needs to evade both of them and is afraid the federal Marshals will move her once more. She hates the thought of leaving the Island and the friends she's making there, to say nothing of the Fire Captain. How she resolves these problems will keep you turning the pages and reading late into the night.

Overall, a fast-paced suspense novel with a good, solid romance to spice it up. I thoroughly enjoyed reading In Name Only. You will, too.
Profile Image for Nancy.
1,610 reviews48 followers
October 24, 2016
I discovered Carol Kilgore's books a few days ago, and have been reading through them. Carol's books have kept me reading way into the night. There are several things going on in each of the books I have read. This book has Summer in the witness protection program, where she has been for five years. The Marshal's keep moving her around, when attempts are made on her life. Summer is working at a restaurant, when someone sets a fire. Summer thinks fast, and she gets everyone out, but she goes back inside to get the register, and a ring her father gave her. There is a killer after Summer, as well as a serial rapist, who might also be a killer. Summer makes friends, and feels at home, and doesn't want to have to move again.

This was a good read. I'm not for sex between people, who hardly know each other, and Carol doesn't over do it in this book, but I can do without those parts. At least that part of the story came late into the book.
498 reviews
Want to Read
January 15, 2015
No home. No family. No place to hide. For Summer Newcombe, that's only the beginning. The night Summer escapes from a burning Padre Island eatery and discovers the arsonist is stalking her, is the same night she meets Fire Captain Gabriel Duran. As much as she's attracted to Gabe, five years in the Federal Witness Security Program because of her father's testimony against a mob boss have taught her the importance of being alone and invisible. No matter how much she yearns for a real home, Summer relinquished that option the night she killed the man who murdered her father. But Gabe breaks down her guard and places both of them in danger. Summer has vowed never to kill again, but she's frantic she'll cost Gabe his life unless she stops running and fights for the future she wants with the man she loves.
Profile Image for Susan Swiderski.
Author 3 books40 followers
July 1, 2013
Kilgore does a fabulous job balancing mystery, suspence, and romance. She calls her writing "crime fiction with a kiss," and that's a perfect description. A heroine with an assumed identity, on the run and hiding from something or someone, is rescued from a hot fire by an even hotter fireman, making her long to stop running and put down roots. With that hunky fireman and all the other new friends she's made. But at what cost? At what peril? Sorry, I'm not gonna tell you. Guess you'll just have to read the book.
Profile Image for T.B. Markinson.
Author 74 books1,176 followers
November 3, 2015
In Name Only is a fun and exciting romantic suspense. Summer is a fabulous strong female character and Gabe is a hunk. Mix in lots of twists and turns and you get an entertaining read.
Profile Image for Vicky Connelly.
408 reviews4 followers
April 28, 2017
Women were so dependent on their husbands in colonial times but what happens when your husband dies and his last request is for you to marry his brother-- and you have no choice.
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews