Two of Hearts

Golden Arrow #1

by Christina Lee

A gripping standalone adult romance about finding yourself while taking a second chance at your first love…

Dakota Nakos was always the resilient, strong-willed achiever. But when her father dies and she’s entrusted with the family’s casino, she feels vulnerable, scared, and more than a little emotional —not exactly the best time to see an old lover she’s never really gotten over.

Dakota once meant the world to Shane Garrity. Then suddenly he left town to train as a U.S. Marshal, and their love for each other crashed into a memory. Now he’s come home for her father’s funeral, and one look at the girl he left behind stirs up both memories and regrets, and reignites a fire he feared he’d lost forever.

Dakota may be the same driven girl she always was, but she’s also changed in ways neither could have anticipated. She’s not just a young woman searching for own identity in the Native American community in which she was raised, but one questioning her new life outside her father’s shadow. Above all she wonders if Shane can push past her weakened defenses to rekindle what they once had, or whether the intense blaze between them will ultimately reduce her heart to ashes.

Genres: Romance, Contemporary, Contemporary Romance, New Adult, Adult, Second Chance, Suspense

304 pages, Paperback

First published May 5, 2015

About the author

Christina writes romance in different sub-genres, mostly with LGBTQ characters, not only because she's part of the community, but because representation matters, and everyone deserves a happily-ever-after. 


You can find more info on her website: www.christinalee.net. From there you can link to her Facebook reader group as well as her IG account and newsletter.

Reviews

[Patrycja · Rating 4 out of 5]

Title: Two of Hearts
Series: Standalone
Author: Christina Lee
Release Date: 5 May, 2015
Rating: 4 stars
Cliffhanger:. No
HEA: Yes







If you are familiar with Christina’s Between Breaths Series you probably know she writes very well. Her characters are original and unique and mostly her stories are just smokin’ hot! Two of Hearts is just as sexy and interesting as that series. It’s definitely gripping, interesting novel with intense romance that I immensely enjoyed. I felt engaged in the story from the very beginning and plenty of scenes made my heart race.

"Sometimes attraction is so powerful you can't help but be swayed by it. And sometimes that attraction turns into something more, something that fills up your whole world.”



Even though, Shane and Dakota were secondary characters in Between Breaths Series, Two of Hearts is a standalone, so you can reach for it without worrying about the other books.

Shane and Dakota’s love story started years ago, when they were still in college, but miscommunication and few other things broke them up. Now, five years has passed, but they still share some feelings. When Shane comes for Dakota’s father funeral they have a chance to mend their hearts and start over again.



“There was no way I could resist, no way I could walk away not experiencing how he tasted again after all this time. I leaned into the kiss, my tongue meeting his in small arousing flicks before he thrust past my lips, sliding over my teeth to seize my mouth.”

Dakota and Shane’s story turned up to be heart fluttering reading experience, simply a nice, pleasant mash up of sexy times, great humor and a tad bit of drama. This book will please fans of steamy second chance romance books. It’s very well done and I had fun while reading it.





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[Lady Vigilante (Feifei) · Rating 2 out of 5]

2 stars!

Keeping it short and simple: this book was a bust.

A bit about the story

The heroine's father is killed, though his death is speculated to be a murder. The hero is a US Marshall back in his hometown figuring out the case and at the same time reconciles with his old flame.

Strike 1

This book needs to be advertised under romantic suspense, HEAVY on the suspense rather than stuck under NA romance. While I'm a huge fan of RS reads, I need to go into books knowing what genre they are as I have different mindsets for different reads. I expected romance. What I got was a dragged out, watered down suspense plot revolving around the heroine's father's death, plus a weak second chance romance. Not a fan.

Strike 2

Because of the heavy suspense plot, the romance was severely lacking. In fact, the whole story lacked depth. Aside from the well-researched Indian cultural aspect to the story, Dakota and Shane's rekindled romance, the mystery and perpetrator behind Dakota's father's death, and just the general story was so predictable I played guessing games with myself on what would happen in future chapters.

Strike 3

When I think about this author's strongest writing forte, it's her amazing ability to create palpable sexual tension that adds this special spark to the connection between her characters, much like the way in Whisper to Me. However, that was gone. The chemistry was very bland and routine...it felt forced. I also hated that side characters took up a quarter of the book, hogging up book space that should've belonged to Dakota and Shane.

As this is my third (or fourth?) negative review in a week, I apologize if this review comes off as abrasive or terse. I'm just sick of writing negative reviews and finishing books feeling unsatisfied. Maybe if you're in the mood for a simple, straightforward, sweet read this book may work for you, but as I'm always looking for books that'll make me think and really feel, this was not for me.

ARC provided by Penguin Intermix via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

[Jacqueline's Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 Finding Love again Stars

Two of Hearts is a standalone and is not linked to a series. Two of Hearts does have Rachel and Kai and their story can be found in Whisper to Me. You do not need to read Whisper to Me prior to reading Two of Hearts.

We briefly met Dakota and Shane in Whisper to me, but now they are all grown up. Shane and Dakota broke up when Shane left to train as a U.S. Marshal. Now, years later he’s back in town and Dakota doesn’t know how she feels about this.

This is about you and me, angle. We’ve got unfinished business.

Dakota is going through her own issues. Her Native American father dies and with this stirs a lot of issues with his casino. Legally Dakota’s, non-Native American mother owns the casino, but the community questions if the mom should.

I think Christina Lee didn’t link Two of Hearts with the Between Breath series because the pace and tone of Two of Hearts is so different. Two of Hearts reads a little bit suspenseful and less angsty. A lot of questions are brought up with Dakota’s father’s death and it adds a little mysterious element to the book.

I thought Dakota was a firm and strong character. She kept herself together during a very tragic time. She supported her mother and kept herself at a distance from Shane, even though she has lingering feelings for him.

Dakota has always known that she wanted to stay in once place, but not Shane. Shane wanted to travel the world and it kind of lead to their downfall in the beginning. I liked when Shane and Dakota meet again. It wasn’t this crazy drama filled scene. It felt very rational, if that’s any way to describe it. Shane is in town to help with her father’s investigation and of course there’s sexual tension, but it’s mild. I liked it.

We ended because I was destined to be here and you were destined to be traveling the country.

I wanted you so … bad. I had the taste of you, the smell of you, the feel of you on my skin for years. Only you. Nobody else even came close.

I liked the Dakota and Shane dynamics. They had issues, but they mostly focused on the father’s death and the threats Dakota is starting to get. As you read, more things are discovered and more secrets are revealed. It kept my interest and I was entertained.

I wanted him to drink me, consume me, make me part of him. I wanted him to tuck my heart in the safe of his soul.

If you are a fan of Christina Lee and want to try something a little different, you will not be disappointed with this one.

An Arc was provided in exchange for an honest review

AMAZON

[Christina · Rating 5 out of 5]

I wrote this book and wanted to clear up a few questions. ;-)

TWO OF HEARTS is an ADULT ROMANCE and it is NOT part of my New Adult Between Breaths series.

Yes, the two main characters--Dakota and Shane--can be found in WHISPER TO ME, but this is not considered a spin-off series. It's just Dakota and Shane all grown up. They are in their late twenties, are facing life-altering dilemmas, and have a second chance at love.

I loved writing this book and I truly hope you enjoy reading it.

Hope that helps. xxxooo

Here is my Pinterest inspiration board, in case you're interested: https://www.pinterest.com/christinale...

[♥Rachel♥ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Growing up together, Dakota and Shane crushed on each other for years. Shane was not only her brother’s best friend, but he was also a fixture in their family, close to all members. Back in college they gave into their attraction and had a passionate romance, but insecurities prevented Shane and Dakota from expressing just how deeply they felt for one another, and their life goals took them in opposite directions.

Dakota had always known she’d take over the family’s successful casino and Shane wanted to be a US Marshal, which would take him away from home. Dakota didn’t want to stand in the way of Shane’s dreams, so she didn’t protest when he announced his plans, but she was shattered when he left. Wasn’t she enough for him to want to stay? Shane was heartbroken when Dakota just let him walk away without any fight. Didn’t she feel their love was worth the work to stay together? So they went their separate ways, but neither got over their first love or moved on.

Now five years later, Shane is back to lend emotional and professional support after Dakota’s father is murdered. The intense attraction and pull they felt sparks to life again as soon as they get near each other, but is it enough to rekindle what they had?

“You’re still so goddamn gorgeous,” I said. Her eyes widened and held mine. “I always thought about those lips and eyes. How your body felt against mine.”—“So don’t tell me that it wasn’t something,” I said, tilting my head and looming over her. “At one time, it was everything.”

I really enjoyed this second chance romance. Sometimes when you fall in love so young, immaturity and insecurities can get the best of you and really make a mess of things. While their five year separation was painful to both Shane and Dakota, I felt it may have been needed. The five years apart gave them each a chance to mature and get comfortable in their own skin. I appreciated that Shane realized his past mistakes, one being his inability to let Dakota see how deeply he felt for he. This time around Shane made a big effort to let Dakota in and show her exactly how much she means to him. Dakota was gutted when Shane left five years, but she didn’t allow Shane to see this, thinking she felt more for him than he did for her. Dakota’s still worried about opening her heart to Shane just to have him leave again, but thankfully Shane’s persistent and they get to the heart of the matter: if you love each other as powerfully as they do, you make the effort to make it work!

Steamy scenes are far more satisfying when there’s a well established past, especially with all the ache of losing your first love. Every time Shane and Dakota were in the same room there was a palpable tension between them, stemming from hurt, attraction and intense longing.

Dakota’s father’s murder is unsolved and it soon becomes apparent that the rest of the family is at risk as well. Christina Lee added a layer of suspense and danger with this mystery, providing a thrilling edge to this already addictive story.

A copy was kindly provided by NAL Trade in exchange for an honest review.

[Michelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC provided by publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review



I absolutely adore and love Christina Lee. She never fails in delivering you a love story that will make your hearts flutter and have you swooning for the heroes. So if you haven't read a Christina Lee book, I don't know what to say but you are really missing out!!! Ms. Lee's storytelling and writing are so beautifully well done and crafted. If you want romance, drama, angst, and emotions then you should definitely go read one of her books. After reading one book, you might find yourself addicted with her books.

In her newest release Two of Hearts, Ms. Lee reunites us with Dakota and Shane, both whom can be found in Whisper to Me. In Two of Hearts, which can be read as standalone, Dakota and Shane are all grown up now and are reunited back together to get their second chance at love when an unfortunate tragic death brings them back together.



Dakota has always been a strong-willed, independent and stubborn woman. So when her father was suddenly murdered, it rocked her world. The obligation she has to her workers, the casino, her family and Native American community was a big weight and burden she had to endured. Her love life has always been complicated ever since Shane and her ended things several years ago. Unspoken words and miscommunication was what led them going their separate ways.

When Shane goes back to his hometown to attend the funeral of Mr. Nakos, he knew he would be seeing Dakota once again and this time he wanted to see if there was a slight chance she felt the same way as he did. Shane has never forgotten Dakota. She was ingrained into his heart and mind. He loved her fiercely and wanted to protect her at all cost. So Shane decides to stay in town to investigate the murder of Dakota's father and at the same time protect her from the potential danger that is still lurking around. The feelings and love that Shane and Dakota had for each other soon begins to reignite. The sparks of attraction were still there and it was only a matter of time till these two finally admitted their feelings, fears, and love for one another. Being the strong and stubborn woman Dakota is, will she finally say the four words that Shane needs to hear from her? Stay.

Two of Hearts was a sexy, touching and beautiful love story. I love books that incorporates interracial romances because lets face it, there isn't enough diversity. I praise Ms. Lee for writing a book that where we can learn about Native American culture. This book was such an entertaining read because you had romance, suspense, and a little drama thrown into the mix of the story line. Overall, I enjoyed Two of Hearts. This book really captures the growth of two characters as they navigate and find their way back to each other. So if you are fan of second chance romance, then I suggest you give this book a try.



Review can also be found on Four Chicks Flipping Pages Christina Lee

[Nancy The book junkie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rating: 3.5/5

Review coming soon!

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

“Stay. Such a substantial word. A word that made me weak in the knees because I was utterly vulnerable to it. To the idea of it. To the longing embedded deep in my soul to have someone remain in my life because they wanted to. Needed to.”

Two of Hearts was a very enjoyable read. Two of Hearts follows the story of Dakota and Shane. Dakota has always been very strong, independent and stubborn. But when her father suddenly passes away, her world is knocked off it’s axis. She’s struggling to stay strong for her family and be the woman that she’s always been. Things get even more complicated when Shane comes back home….Shane and Dakota were everything to each other, once upon a time. But, when an opportunity came about for Shane to leave town, neither one of them fought for the other. Both too stubborn for their own good. Now Shane has returned home to be there for Dakota and this time, he’s not going to let her go.

Two of Hearts was such an enjoyable read. I was able to read this one in just one sitting. I found the plot line to be very interesting and I loved learning about Native American culture. The characters were intriguing and I wanted to know more about them, even the ones I didn’t like as much.

I just adored Shane and Dakota together. Their chemistry was scorching. Dakota tried very hard to deny what was happening between the two of them, but the truth of the matter was that she was just scared. She loved Shane very much at one time and wasn’t sure if her heart could take it if he left again. However, Shane is now grown up. He’s changed. He’s realized just how important things are in life and what he’s missed out on. He’s not going to let Dakota go without a fight. The two of them, so stubborn, but yet somehow, they really balanced one another out.

Two of Hearts is a great second chance romance. This is a great story of first love, a second chance at that love and family. I really loved the way the author showcased the Native American culture and how protective they were of their people and their land. Overall, I thought this was a really great book. This book made me laugh, and swoon. I enjoyed the mystery surrounding Dakota’s father’s death and really enjoyed figuring out who was behind it. My only complaint is that, I would have loved there to have been a little more at the end. After everything that Dakota and Shane went through to be together, I just wasn’t quite ready to say goodbye to the two of them. That being said, I’m still pretty happy with the ending I got. Overall, a really great read and I’m looking forward to seeing what Christina Lee has in store for us next!

*I was provided an ARC copy of this book, via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review*

[Pavlina Read more sleep less blog · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC provided by Penguin Intermix via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

[Melissa · Rating 3 out of 5]

Whisper To Me was the first book I happened to pick up in the Between Breaths series and I fell hard for Kai. Knowing this was his sister's book, I was looking forward to diving in. Dakota and Shane's story is one of second chances and not being afraid to go after what you want, or I should say who. There is a strong sense of family, friendship and Indian customs throughout this story that really tie the characters together and add meaning to the story.

The circumstances aren't ideal, but the death of Kai and Dakota's father has brought Shane back home. It's a chance for him to take a much needed breather, be there to support his best friends and get his head back in the game. The endless travel as a U.S. Marshall has left him burnt-out, lonely and questioning his future.

Being back around Dakota doesn't make things any easier. Five years ago, in their senior year of college, their friendship turned into something much more. For some reason, neither of them fought to make things work. They simply parted ways, with differing career goals as an excuse.

That didn't mean their feelings for one another stopped though. Dakota is under a lot of pressure running the family casino and Shane is the only one that can provide any relief. He's grown into a strong, protective guy, that can be bossy at times. Which, I found sexy.

"I wanted you so damn bad, I had the taste of you, the smell of you, the feel of you on my skin for years. Only you. Nobody even came close."

I liked the history between Dakota and Shane. That they both took time to figure themselves out, let their ambitions lead them and still somehow found their way back to one another. Knowing that Dakota's father and Shane had a special relationship really cemented Shane and Dakota's connection even more in my eyes.

Without a doubt, my favorite part was getting to see more of Kai and Rachel and how far they've come. He will always have a special place in my heart.

What I didn't enjoy was the how the story concluded. There was a buildup throughout that I felt wrapped up too easily. It was pretty anticlimactic and predictable.

3/5 Fangs
Mrs Leif's Two Fangs About It

*Complimentary copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

[Annie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Christina Lee has been on my radar for a very long time but I haven’t had the chance to read one of her books until now. TWO OF HEARTS is unique because it deals with modern Native American struggles that don’t get often showcased in romances too often. I liked the author’s take on the books and felt that they added something unique and interesting.

However the one thing that immediately stood out in Dakota and Shane’s story is Lee’s writing. She’s a very polished writer whose makes it easy to get into the character’s POV. I found the writing to be very eloquent and easy to read, making this book an easy one to devour.

Though this is more Contemporary than New Adult, Lee does make a lot of references to her NA series, Between Breaths. The story also bounces back between the hero and heroine’s first person POV but I think it fits wonderfully, especially with the amount of tension and history these two have with one another.

Shane is a very intense character. His time as a U.S. Marshal has hardened him, but there’s always this soft spot he had held for Dakota that doesn’t diminish when he comes to see her after her father dies. As struggles arise for Dakota, the last thing she needs is a dangerous distraction in Shane. So Shane must convince Dakota about giving them another shot, but this seems a lot harder than it really is, amping up the angst in a way that makes me think of young love. If you’re a fan of second chance romances, then this one is definitely one you need to check out. After reading and enjoying this first book by Christina Lee, then you be sure I’ll be checking out more of her work!

Favorite Quote:

“Sometimes love makes life more vibrant.”

[Sheryl C. Nash · Rating 4 out of 5]

*ARC courtesy of Netgalley and Berkley*

[Kimberly · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars - My review cross-posted from Wit and Sin: http://witandsin.blogspot.com/2015/05...

Two of Hearts is an engaging story of finding and fighting for home, wrapped up in a passionate reunion romance. Dakota and Shane have sizzling chemistry and author Christina Lee delivers incredibly hot scenes in Two of Hearts . On its own, this could make the book a highly entertaining read. But it’s the way Dakota and Shane are as individuals and how that plays into their rekindled romance that makes their story shine.

Shane is a strong, protective hero who’s nearly at the end of his rope with his job as a U.S. Marshal. I loved that Shane was not only over the moon about Dakota, but also isn’t afraid to wear his heart on his sleeve. He’s open about what he feels for her, his need to protect her and her family, and damn if that isn’t sexy. Shane is a wonderfully self-aware, genuinely kind and giving hero. Dakota is as drawn to Shane as he is to her, but she’s also got a hell of a lot on her plate. Dakota’s a smart, determined woman fighting for her legacy in the wake of her father’s death. Though her mother is Dutch, Dakota has always identified as Native American and is now feeling a bit lost in her own community. Since her father’s murder and her mother’s inheritance of their family’s casino, some people have – whether out of fear, distrust, or because of the manipulation of others – started making Dakota feel like an outsider. One of my favorite things about Two of Hearts is watching Dakota find her voice in the Native American community. Ms. Lee’s research dedication to showing the beauty of Native American culture and the struggles the Nation faces shows and I really loved the care she took in weaving this throughout the book.

Though Dakota and Shane are undeniably the heart of Two of Hearts , Ms. Lee gives depth and attention to a dynamic supporting cast. I absolutely loved Shane’s fellow Marshals, Charlie and Alex, and I have my fingers crossed in the hopes that one or both of them will get a book. It’d also be remiss of me not to mention Dakota’s brother and sister-in-law, Kai and Rachel. Kai and Rachel are the two characters whose clear love for one another brought a smile to my face every time they were on the page. Of course, this isn’t surprising since they happen to be the hero and heroine of Whisper to Me, part of Ms. Lee’s Between Breaths series. Two of Hearts isn’t part of the Between Breaths series, nor is it a New Adult book like Whisper to Me. Dakota and Shane’s book takes place a years after Kai and Rachel’s story, and I’m sure fans of Whisper to Me will love seeing Kai and Rachel a few years into their marriage.

Between Dakota and Shane’s steamy romance, the wonderful supporting characters, and the attention given to Dakota’s heritage, there’s a lot to love about Two of Hearts . Add in a dash of suspense revolving around the murder of Dakota’s father and it’s easy to see how a reader can get swept up in this book. I loved Two of Hearts and I hope Ms. Lee continues to write more compelling adult contemporary romances.


FTC Disclosure: I received this book for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.

[Jessica · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am a huge Christina Lee fan, so when I saw she was writing Dakota's story I was super excited. We briefly met her in Whisper to Me, as she is Kai's sister. I had no idea this book would be more of a romantic suspense, and I have to say- I adored that! The romance is weaved into the suspense-filled plot so effortlessly and I found myself completely engaged from start to finish.

This book is really plot heavy on the building tension with the Casino Association. After Dakota's father dies, the casino is left to her and her Dutch mother, which makes some question their devotion to preserving Native American culture. This is a huge slap in the face to these two women, as they have devoted so much of their time and life for the well-being of the casino and ensuring that their heritage is preserved. Even though Dakota's mother doesn't have any Native American blood coursing through her veins, she loves the community and respects their traditions- and has for a long time. With Dakota's father being murdered, U.S. Marshal Shane Garrity, Dakota's former flame, comes back into town for the funeral, but finds himself feeling like there's an imminent danger that goes beyond just Mr. Nakos's murder.

Shane still has strong feelings for Dakota, and she him, but both never could seem to communicate their feelings well enough in the past. Now, Shane refuses to let Dakota shut him out. He is there to help and I love his protectiveness over her and her family. Dakota and Shane have some serious simmering sexual tension and I love how it plays out. There is relatively low angst with these two, which worked really well, considering there was so many other suspenseful factors. Shane takes Dakota's safety very seriously, as he should. There are some very disgruntled people over the fact that Dakota and her mom are not full blooded Native American and some of the other casino board members are pressuring them to sell, along with Dakota's Uncle Elan.

I honestly didn't guess who was beyond the threats until pretty late in the book. I was always wary, but it didn't really click for me until a bit before it was revealed.

Fans of Kai and Rachel from Whisper to Me will be happy to see them make a few appearances in this book. I loved checking in with them and seeing how they were doing.

Overall, I really enjoyed this one. I thought Lee did a brilliant job of creating a suspenseful plot, while still creating a palpable relationship between Dakota and Shane. Their journey isn't an easy one, as they are both afraid they will end up in the same position they were five years ago. Thankfully, they both have grown up since then and have a better idea of what they want... and what they're willing to fight for.

*Received a copy of this book via the publisher in exchange for a fair and honest review.*

[Karen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Christina writes amazing N/A books. Strong, likeable characters. Great story lines. New venture into a more mature audience, and a change is as good as a rest so they say.

Words that sum this book up for me:

Family
Pride
Prejudice
Culture
Betrayal

Christina wonderfully portrays the deep family love of the Nakos family and their Indian culture.

"He'll always be around. In the sound of the wind, the melody of the crickets, and the brilliance of the sunset."

"Blue Cloud teaches that we're all made from the same material as the earth, moon, and stars," my mother's words rang out...."So why now, when I've stood by your side for years, do you make me feel as if I haven't been created from the same universe?"

Shane Garrity is a very likeable hero. I love how he is so respectful of the Indian community and their traditions. I love how he calls Dakota Angel and I love that he sees straight through her bravado knocking down her protective walls.

Dakota isn't the strong young woman she claims to be, I found her quite insecure. She is full of business confidence but takes her damn time to realise what she means to Shane. Come on girl - he worships you, kiss him quick!

"I closed my eyes as the sentiment washed over me like a salve. I would never again be able to hear that word and not think of his gravelly voice whispering it over the landscape of my skin."

"Sometimes attraction is so powerful you can't help but be swayed by it. And sometimes that attraction turns into something more, something that fills up your whole world."

The plot to discover the truth about Linden Nakos' death and problems with The Golden Arrow casino is well developed through the book. Someone is stirring up bad feeling and prejudice and those people most easily influenced or bought take sides against Dakota and her mum. Fools!

I loved catching up with Rachel and Kai they were always so perfect for each other. Their story made me warm and fuzzy.

All in all it was well done and I totally claim Scott Eastwood as my Shane.

Fave quote

"Our hands reaching, stroking, caressing - our teeth bruising and our lips swathing - as we transformed our words into physical manifestations, professions of love."

Now I understand their might be a vacant Marshal position in Hawaii - where do I apply?

I received an ARC of this book via Netgalley for an honest review.

[Maria Rose · Rating 4 out of 5]

Though Christina Lee is better known for her new adult romances, she does an admirable job here with this second chance romance between Dakota and Shane. They were high school sweethearts but when Shane felt called to be a U.S. Marshall, Dakota let him go without a fight, figuring he'd be better off following his heart (though it broke hers). Now back together when her father dies unexpectedly, Shane is determined that things this time will end differently.

I quite enjoyed this story. The basic plot revolves around the controversy over native run casinos, something I had never seen in a romance story before. Dakota's mother has inherited it due to the death of her husband, but being Dutch, there are many who resent that a non-native will be controlling an industry that they rely upon for the money coming into the reserve. Along with this story though, is the reuniting of Shane and Dakota. He's determined to get to the bottom of what really happened to Dakota's father, and to protect her as well. Though Dakota welcomes Shane back into her bed, her heart stays reserved, worried that he'll take off again when everything is resolved. They were both really strong willed, enjoyable characters to read about and the sex scenes between them were hot and steamy! I liked how the story progressed and I found it an entertaining read - a good mix of suspense and romance. 4 stars.

Note: a copy of this story was provided by the publisher via NetGalley for review.

[Suzi (Obsessive Reading Disorder) · Rating 5 out of 5]

*I received an ARC of this book for an honest review

If you are a fan of Christina Lee’s Between Breaths series, you will love this adult novel, Two of Hearts. You will see familiar faces in this novel—Rachel and Kai and the Nakos family--and meet some new ones. We have meet Dakota and Shane briefly in Whisper to Me. This is now their story to tell. Dakota is all grown up in this book and Shane has come back to pay respects to her family upon the death of her father.

Shane and Dakota share a history. It ended abruptly and left neither of them in a good place. Dakota’s character is very strong, a bit stubborn and full of pride in her heritage. She is determined to fulfill her father’s legacy, despite the whispers about her throughout the Native American community she lives in. I loved that she is willing to forgo her feelings for Shane if it would mean being disrespectful to her culture.

Shane is a man full of regret. He knows now that he should not have left things with Dakota the way he did. His life is in a crossroads right now, so he decides to take some time to renew old acquaintances and help out some friends. Shane seems to understand Dakota better than she does herself. He is not willing to back out of this possible forever relationship. Now only if he can convince Dakota it is worth the risk.

Dakota: “There was no way I could resist, no way I could walk away not experiencing how he tasted again after all this time. I leaned into the kiss, my tongue meeting his in small arousing flicks before he thrust past my lips, sliding over my teeth to seize my mouth.”

Ahh, yes…..when these two decide to let down the barriers they have built up between them, it gets very steamy!! Shane and Dakota are both alpha characters and it takes a bit of a dance for them to figure out that they can work well together. As with all of Ms. Lee’s male characters, Shane is sex on a stick! He knows what Dakota needs and is willing to show her again and again how good they can be together.

Shane: “I’d feel lost without you. My lips, my fingers, my skin. Fuck. Even my damn soul would be lonely for you.”

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I am a huge fan of the author and she did not disappoint in her venture from NA to adult. I am looking forward to anything new she offers up. If you haven’t read the Between Breaths series, be sure to check that out. This is a stand-alone novel. You don’t need to have read the other series to be totally in love with the characters in this book.

[Teresa Mary Rose · Rating 4 out of 5]

More Reviews Here: Readers Live A Thousand Lives

I had high hopes going into this book. I’ve loved every book I’ve read from Christina Lee to date and then I saw she was writing an adult second chance romance and I was just over the moon. I love second chance romances and this book was a total win for me. She writes such great romances and Two Of Hearts was no exception.

I really loved Dakota, but damn did that girl frustrate me. It actually took me some time to really love her because she is such a tough nut to crack, but once she cracked I was done. I have so much respect for her too. She is such an incredibly strong character. She is determined and smart and when faced with adversity, she fights back. She may need to learn to communicate better, but at the same time I understand why she was so guarded.

Shane though, oh man, I was completely gone for Shane pretty much from the beginning. He made some mistakes with Dakota in the past, but once he sees her again he pretty much knows that he needs to make up for those. After five years he is finally starting to realize what he wants in life. I really loved watching these two come together again. What I liked even more was that it really felt like this was their time. Five years ago, neither one of them was really ready for this, but now it’s finally time for them to make it work and they’ve both finally realized that maybe they can work it out.

I also really loved the suspense angle that was incorporated into this book. It was a great addition to the story and I was invested in that aspect just as much as I was in the romance. I had my suspicions about a certain character, but then there was a piece towards the end that really blindsided me and that was really awesome. I love a book that takes me by surprise.

As a side note, I really liked seeing Kai and Rachel again. This book completely stands on its own, but these characters from Christina’s new adult series make some appearances and I loved that. Kai is probably my favorite of all of Christina’s guys so I really liked seeing him and Rachel happy and together.

Two Of Hearts was yet another great read from Christina Lee. I know I can always count on her to deliver an addictive and swoony read and I can’t wait to see what she has in store for us next.

[Valerie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoy those stories that blend something more with the romance because they feel more real. This is one of those books.


Dakota and Shane left things unsettled 5 years ago and now a death has brought them to the same place. It's a possibility for a second chance at their first love. But that's not all. As they struggle to deal with seeing each other again, they also have to deal with controversy and the question of who's behind it.


Things are never neat is life and when a book muddies the waters with problems for the couple to figure out together, then there can be more couple time. And I love my couple time. These two have some hot sexy tension between them. And when they give in...against the wall, on the couch, in her bed...they're not picky.


I loved how Shane could read Dakota. He saw her withdrawing into herself and I love that he called her on it. She's a strong women but she likes to hide her emotions. Shane's grown into the man that won't let her walk away from him again. Loved that about him.


The Native American culture was a welcome difference for this one too. It's nice to learn about and feel the culture of characters that don't always get the lime light.


The story is interesting. I figured out the bad guy early but it was interesting to watch Shane and Dakota figure it out. And I enjoyed the suspense aspects of this one. It wasn't a heavy element but added enough to make it feel different.


This one is a stand alone and will be enjoyed by those that love a good second chance story with lots of couple time and some different cultural elements.

[Irene · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars

Two of Hearts was a very good read.

I really enjoyed the storyline, it was one of those books that you didn't want to put down =)

Thank you Netgalley and PENGUIN GROUP Berkley, NAL / Signet Romance, DAW for the advance copy.

[Livia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mix two alpha personalities and throw in some suspense - a recipe for a great read!

I loved it! Author Christina Lee is one of my top favorite authors and she never disappoints me. I wish that I could have timed my read of this better so that I had the entire weekend to indulge in it and finish it uninterrupted by work and other evening tasks. But reading it during my lunch break walks worked as well. Dakota and Shane's lovestory definitely made an excellent exercise motivator.

Minor Spoilers Alert!!!

Two of Hearts begins on a tragic note with Mr. Nakos's death. Shane, a US Marshall and Kai's best friend, returns to his hometown to attend the funeral and to figure out what to do about his career burnout. Once he and Dakota come into contact, he knows that he has to find out what went wrong with them and why she let him leave without protest when they had so much potential as a romantic couple. Through the dual POVs of Dakota and Shane, we learn why Dakota and Shane's secret college romance failed, how the Indian community reacts to both Mr. Nakos's death and the family casino falling under Mrs. Nakos and Dakota's joint management. Convincing the Indian community that Mrs. Nakos wouldn't all of sudden abandon the values and beliefs that she embraced while Mr. Nakos was alive was a central issue in the story.

I loved that we also see more of Kai Nakos, Dakota's brother and his wife, Rachel who had their own romance in Author Christina Lee's New Adult series Whisper to Me (Between Breaths # 3). Rachel and Dakota are best friends and she dispensed some really good advice -

"If there's one thing I've learned, Dakota, it's that you make your home with the person you love. And everything else will fall into place." Rachel

and admonishment when needed -

Her eyebrows rose and she her lips drew together in a tight line.“And you didn't talk to him about it?"

I shook my head.

"Not this shit again.” She grasped at my shoulders. “You need to talk to him.” Rachel

In telling Dakota and Shane's story, Author Christina Lee also explores serious issues like ethnic group identity versus self identity. Kai and Dakota Nakos are of mixed ethnic heritage, with an Indian father and a Dutch mother. Some Indians believe the casinos are detrimental to Indian communities while others support the economic prosperity that comes with it. After Mr. Nakos's death, Dakota and her mother felt tremendous pressure from outside parties to sell their family's casino. This complicated the romantic tension between Dakota and Shane a great deal.

Dakota was a driven, independent and strong-willed female who wasn't used to bending to anyone's influence. She had a valid fear that openly dating Shane who was not of Indian descent would only further complicate her standing in the Indian business community. Consequently, one challenge Shane had was to show Dakota that she could still be strong while partnering with him romantically.

His mouth moved closer to my ear and in a controlled voice that verged largely on anger, he said, “You might not want anybody here to know what’s happening between us, and it’s fine if that extends to him, for the time being. But you will not give him the opportunity to be alone with you.”

My cheeks heated up faster than a forest fire and I was nearly rendered speechless.

“Him picking you up? That’s a date,” he said, eyebrow lifted, teeth clenched. “That gives the impression that you’re available and you’re not. You’re mine.”

I sucked in a breath and crossed my legs, unable to control how turned on I felt in that moment, even though I wanted to thoroughly smack him. “I’m yours?”

His eyes met mine in near defiance and I couldn’t look away even if I tried. “That’s right. And I’m yours. We clear?”

I bit on my trembling lip. “We’re clear, chief.”

He must’ve liked that because his thumb briefly trailed over mine beneath the table.

I also love romantic suspense so I thoroughly enjoyed trying to piece together the clues as Shane and his two fellow US Marshals investigated the mystery of Mr. Nakos's death.

This was Author Christina Lee's first contemporary romance. My Kindle cloud copy of this novel is full of highlights and bookmarks proving yet again how much I adore her writing genius. I always look forward to more from her regardless of the sub genre of romance she chooses to write in.

[Sophia · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was tickled with excitement to learn that one of my favorite authors was tackling her first adult contemporary romance. The story is connected to book three of the New Adult Between Breaths series, but is a standalone. There was a second chance romance and a mystery to keep me interested through the story that is distinguished by its setting of a modern tribe, their concerns, and the Nakos family casino.

The story opens with the funeral of Dakota's father who was killed in a mugging. She feels that her world has gone crazy because her anchor is gone and she, her mother and her brother with his wife must go on all the while suspicious members of the tribe doubt their loyalty and someone wants to force them out of business. If that weren't enough complications, the man she never got over when he left to pursue his career has returned. He wants to help with the dangerous situation and he wants back in her life. Dare she let him back when he will just leave her again possibly more devastated than before?

Shane Garrity had something special with his best friends sister, but right when it was getting good, she pulled back and pushed him away emotionally when he decided to train as a US Marshall. He wanted to make it work, but it appeared that she wasn't planning to fight for them so he angrily followed her wishes and stayed away. Shane never got over Dakota and now that he's back to see she's in big trouble, she's as stubborn and determined as ever. He admires her strength even while it is the very thing that pushes everyone away. But no matter what Dakota says, he will help the family that was like his second home and will investigate the death of the man who was like a father. Something doesn't feel right and he plans to stick close to Dakota until he figures out what.

As I said, this one is connected to Whisper to Me which is the story of Dakota's best friend's romance to Dakota's brother. Personally, I was glad to have read the other story first, but its not necessary to enjoy this one.

The story begins with a murder that is likely to stay unsolved, uneasy feelings within the tribe because Dakota's dad left his casino to his Dutch wife in his will, and trouble with the casino association and another group that hopes to push the Nakos' family out if they won't sell. All these dynamics swirling around the stormy reconnection of Dakota and Shane made things interesting.

This story is one that I liked as a whole, but wasn't that impressed with the heroine. There's stubborn and then there's spite yourself because you refuse to share your feelings and fall back getting snarly and getting caught up in your own head for some wrong thinking. Its not until well into eighty percent of the book that she owns that maybe she sabotaged her own relationship- she is still trying to sabotage things because she makes assumptions that are wrong. Characters with flaws are usually good reading experiences for me, but I didn't find it entertaining in this case. She doesn't really grow or learn to compromise so much as Shane makes the big gesture and has to push her to see what she is doing.
Shane wasn't perfect and needed to grow up too from that first encounter in the past which he did, but he seems to be the one doing all the apologizing, soul searching, and bending.

And something minor, but annoying for me was all the endearments that took over the latter half of the story when they stopped using their names: honey, darling. It was just weird to me because Dakota and Shane weren't the honey/darling sorts.

The romance is scorching hot. Even when she's unsure about other stuff, Dakota and Shane can set the sheets on fire. The attraction is definitely there. She is so willful and independent that Shane's confidence and strength had to dominate her for them to stand a chance. It was a great dynamic and both had respect for the other in this. I loved how he called her on her double-standards and crap. He pulled her out of her own head often. He was very honest with her about her hang-ups, but he was loving and supportive too.

All in all, I liked it mostly for the suspense aspects, but the romance was good too. The heroine wasn't my favorite, but she was still well-written as was the development of the story. I would recommend this to those who enjoy spicy contemporary romance with a touch of suspense.

My thanks to Penguin Group for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Sandy S · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75 stars

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date May 5, 2015

Dakota Nakos was always the resilient, strong-willed achiever. But when her father dies and she’s entrusted with the family’s casino, she feels vulnerable, scared, and more than a little emotional —not exactly the best time to see an old lover she’s never really gotten over.

Dakota once meant the world to Shane Garrity. Then suddenly he left town to train as a U.S. Marshal, and their love for each other crashed into a memory. Now he’s come home for her father’s funeral, and one look at the girl he left behind stirs up both memories and regrets, and reignites a fire he feared he’d lost forever.

Dakota may be the same driven girl she always was, but she’s also changed in ways neither could have anticipated. She’s not just a young woman searching for own identity in the Native American community in which she was raised, but one questioning her new life outside her father’s shadow. Above all she wonders if Shane can push past her weakened defenses to rekindle what they once had, or whether the intense blaze between them will ultimately reduce her heart to ashes.

~~~~~~

REVIEW: 3.75 stars--TWO OF HEARTS is a stand alone adult, contemporary romance storyline by Christina Lee. This is casino owner Dakota Nakos, and U.S. Marshal Shane Garrity’s storyline. Dakota and Shane were first introduced in Whisper to Me from Christina Lee’s new adult Between Breaths Series. TWO OF HEARTS is an adult storyline that advances the original premise five years. It is not a spin off but more of a look to the future.

Told from two first person points of view(Dakota and Shane) TWO OF HEARTS looks at a Native American community of casinos and resorts; the infighting, the competition, the threats from outside sources, and the feared disintegration of the Native communities. There are some generic references to the Native struggles to retain ownership of their lands and control of their casinos, and there is also a peek into the fears of an aboriginal peoples whose numbers are decimated by addiction and marrying outside of the community. TWO OF HEARTS is NOT a story about discrimination or bigotry against Native Americans but perhaps discrimination against those not born of Native blood. It is a fictional story about one particular Native community and their need to stand together and support one another when one of their tribal elders is murdered.

Dakota’s father was murdered leaving his wife and daughter in charge of the family owned Golden Arrow Casino. What ensues is a plot against both the casino and the Nakos family in the hopes of selling the business to another casino operator. Enter U.S. Marshal Shane Garrity-Dakota’s ex boyfriend and the man who stole her heart years before. Shane is on leave from the U.S. Marshal’s office as he considers his future, and with his return home he wants his future to be with Dakota Nakos-but first-Shane begins an investigation, with the help of the U.S. Marshal’s office, into the murder of Dakota’s father and the threats against the woman that he loves.

TWO OF HEARTS is a second chance storyline for Dakota and Shane. Five years earlier Shane announced he wanted to be a U.S. Marshal marking the beginning of the estrangement between himself and Dakota Nakos. Dakota was unwilling to beg Shane to stay; and Shane wasn’t willing to pull Dakota away from her family. With his return, the relationship picks up immediately although Dakota fears another heartbreak when it is time for Shane to move on. The $ex scenes are intimate, passionate and emotional. Both Shane and Dakota want a future together, but a lack of communication finds our couple at odds.

The secondary characters include Kai (Dakota’s brother) and his wife Rachel from Whisper to Me (Between Breaths 3). In the ensuing time, Kai and Rachel have struggled to start a family-TWO OF HEARTS- sees a more positive outlook for the familiar pair. We are also introduced to a number of supporting characters including several Casino employees, some members of the Native Community and of course the requisite evil in the form of the people hoping to destroy the Nakos family.

TWO OF HEARTS is a fast paced, inspiring, and spirited storyline. There are moments of mystery and suspense; heartbreak and grief; romance and love. Through it all, two people fight the odds, for their own happily ever after.

Copy supplied by Netgalley.

www.thereadingcafe.com

[Dark Faerie Tales · Rating 3 out of 5]

Review courtesy of Dark Faerie Tales

Quick & Dirty: A shocking death, a casino in turmoil, can two old flames find their way back to each other?

Opening Sentence: “I inhaled a shaky breath as his coffin lowered into the solid ground.”

The Review:

Dakota is reeling from her father’s murder when she sees Shane at the funeral. She instantly remembers all of her feelings for him and tries to remain aloof. Two of Hearts is a romance but also a mystery. The mystery is Linden’s death and the turmoil that seems to spring up right away in the casino. Linden left the casino to his white wife Johanna and named his daughter Dakota as the operations manager. Shane and Dakota had a relationship five years in the past when they were in college, when faced with future choices Dakota choose to take a break and Shane just went along with it.

Johanna and Dakota are under pressure from the Casino Association to sell their casino, and Johanna’s motives come under fire because of rumors. Meanwhile, Shane and his team are investigating what is going with the casino and who is behind Linden’s death. After several attempts to avoid him, Dakota begins to fall back into a relationship with Shane. As Dakota continues to fight for the casino and what her father wanted, Shane and Dakota fall deeper and deeper into something!

That’s all I can say about what happens in the book without going into spoilers! This was a good book, I had a couple issues which I will go over, but I don’t want to focus on them too much because I really did enjoy Two of Hearts. In fact, I will get down to it right away, first I didn’t always like the interactions with Shane and Dakota, I kind of felt like everything was falling on her too much, she wanted the break, etc, etc, it didn’t last which is why I am not going to keep complaining about it. But my only real thought (which the author did address) was if he loved her so much why didn’t he open his mouth and say something when she wanted to take a break. Lastly, this was really more of a romance than mystery novel, which is fine, the author herself states this a romance, so it almost felt like the mystery was thrown in and watered down. By that I mean, the romance was really the central part and the mystery was often in the background or kind of glossed over.

Those were my only bones to pick, if I say more than I just seem a little nit picky. Besides, I did love Shane’s and Dakota’s interactions once they got passed figuring who to blame for the break-up. He was a good guy who supported, and wanted to be an important part of her life. Dakota was a kick ass and take names kind of girl and together they were smoking hot! I loved loved loved the Native American aspects of the novel, from the viewpoints on the casinos and the realistic conflict over a white owner on reservation land. Kudos to Christina Lee for her research and really attempting to convey such a rich culture in a wonderful light. I was a little shocked but not completely surprised by who was behind the turmoil and the murder of her father, so if you really like thrillers and mysteries you might find this one falls short in that aspect! For the romance genre it definitely hits home!

Notable Scene:

“In the sound of the wind, the melody of the crickets, and the brilliance of the sunset.”

“In the past five years I had placed my feelings for him in a nice little box and thrown them overboard into the vast darkness of my heart.”

“The same pride that would continue eating me alive, leave me bereft and alone.”

FTC Advisory: Signet/Penguin provided me with a copy of Two of Hearts. No goody bags, sponsorships, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review.

[Lindy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lindy's Thoughts:

I enjoy all of the books that Ms. Lee has written. Her Between Breaths Series is one of my favorite in the New Adult Genre. Imagine my surprise and utter excitement when I discovered that Kai and Rachel from, Whisper to Me, were in this story! While Two of Hearts is a standalone novel, I was giddy over the fact that two of my favorite characters from one of her previous books had crossed over!

In Two of Hearts, we get Dakota Nakos and Shane Garrity's story told from both of their view points. Dakota is shocked and devastated my the tragic murder of her father, Linden Nakos. He was supposedly robbed and killed for the money in his pocket, but there are no current suspects.

Dakota and Shane had a love affair when they were in college. Unfortunately, due to poor communication, their relationship did not work out. Even though their relationship ended five years ago, they both never stopped having feelings for one another, and everyone that entered their lives romantically afterwards, didn't compare.

With Mr. Nakos' funeral, Shane (Kai's best friend) returns to town. As a federal Marshall, he suspects foul play as far as Mr. Nakos' death is concerned. Mr. Nakos, a full blooded Indian, use to own the Golden Arrow Casino. His wife, a Dutch woman, inherits the casino upon his death. The Native American reservation is up in arms, and are pressuring her to sell the casino to another Native American. They believe that because she doesn't have Native American blood, she will not have the best interests of their people in mind.

Emotions flair and tempers escalate on the Indian reservation, leading to poor employer/employee relations, daily picketers, intimidation tactics to sell, and danger. Shane decides to stay in town for a while, so that he can protect the Nakos family, look into the death of Mr. Nakos, and have a second chance with the only woman that he's ever loved.

Two of Hearts was chock full of drama, suspense, romance, friendship, community, passion, and most importantly, love. I enjoy the second chance at romance trope and was rooting for Dakota and Shane to make their relationship work this time. Dakota frustrated me at times, because I felt like her communication skills were lacking. She had a tendency to make assumptions, and poor Shane, had his work cut out for him. The chemistry and intensity between these two was abundant, intense, and explosive. The bedroom scenes between Dakota and Shane were H-O-T!!! There were plenty of scenes in the story that included Rachel and Kai as well! I was so happy to be reunited with these two characters, and catch up on the current status of their lives. One conclusion that I have come to after reading, Two of Hearts is, that if Ms. Lee writes a story, I will read it!

My Rating:

I give, Two of Hearts, by Christina Lee, 4 Second Chance at Love, Passionate Inferno, Suspense Filled Stars! Yay, we have another story in the win column for Ms. Lee!

My Favorite Quote:

"I wanted you so damn bad, I had the taste of you, the smell of you, the feel of you on my skin for years. Only you. Nobody else even came close."

~Shane Garrity


*To Read More Book Reviews, Visit A Bookish Escape at http://www.abookishescape.com

[Jenn · Rating 3 out of 5]

It's interesting to me that this is considered a standalone book when we've met these characters (and others) in another series of Lee's. I'm assuming it's because of the jump from New Adult to Adult? Anyway...

After the death of her father, Dakota Nakos finds herself running the casino he left behind. As if dealing with this loss wasn't enough, now it seems like the Native American community Dakota was raised in doesn't want her or her mother there anymore. Add that to her ex showing up, and Dakota is just thrown out of sorts. She feels like she's drowning and it's looking like the only way out is the boy from her past and she's not quite sure that's a road she wants to go down again.

When Shane finds out about Mr. Nakos death, he stops at nothing to get home. Not only was Mr. Nakos father to his best friend and the girl he loved, but Mr. Nakos was also like a father to Shane. Upon his arrival, he instantly notices that somethings not right. Tensions are high, but no one is talking. Shane decides he's sticking around to find out what's going on - and to finally figure out what's between him and Dakota.

I really like Lee's writing. She's an author that I warmed up to, having not been to impressed with the first book I read from her. In Two of Hearts, Lee ups the game by jumping into adult with these characters and also throws in a little mystery: who killed Mr. Nakos and why? The setting was also one I hadn't read before. Set on an Indian reservation in the Midwest, I enjoyed how this book placed emphasis on the importance of culture and family.

The chemistry between Dakota and Shane was clearly visible. The two share a past - his best friend is her older brother, not too mention the almost relationship they had. Their past actually lends itself to moving the plot forward instead of getting us stuck there. It's because Shane knew Dakota so well that he was able to anticipate her reactions and also investigate the murder of her father more indepthly. However, despite their obvious chemistry, there was a giant game of push and pull happening. Shane knew what he wanted and was going after it. Dakota had no clue what she wanted and even after she figured it out, still pulled away. She was very up and down with Shane, but it was believable given what her family was going through and the stress of owning a casino. I enjoyed both the drama and the romance of this book.

In my mind, this will always be grouped in with the Between Breaths series. I can't help it. My mind just associates it with that set. That's not a bad thing, though, as I thoroughly enjoyed that series.

I received a copy of this novel from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

[Heather / Obsessed With Myshelf · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dakota and Shane lit the pages on fire. Dakota’s strong personality (which occasionally bordered on stubborn) and Shane’s possessive and protective nature were perfectly matched. When they finally connected, it was practically a combustion. When he promises to be there for Dakota – whether she needs a good listen or a good fuck – my clothes may have started to remove themselves.

I hadn’t read any of Christina Lee’s other books that have these characters in them, nor did I pigeonhole this story into a particular subgenre prior to reading, and I think that’s why my reaction is different than many others. I went into this book with zero expectations and I fucking loved it. If you need a subgenre to get you through the day, I shall deem this adult romantic suspense.

I really enjoyed the Indian symbolism and themes that ran through the book. While this book is different for the genre it definitely still hits the spot for the contemporary romance connoisseur. Let’s talk about why it’s awesome:

Dakota is half Indian and half Dutch, which doesn’t seem like a big deal – but when her father is brutally murdered and the casino he owns is left to Dakota’s mother – who is 100% Dutch – the reservation loses its shit. Dakota had been groomed to take over the management of the casino, but she wasn’t ready. At least she didn’t feel ready. Regardless, while reeling from her father’s untimely death, she now must also deal with the rumors and speculation surrounding the future of her family’s business due to her mother’s heritage. And now, let’s throw into the mix the return of her ex-boyfriend-who-she’s-really-not-over-and-never-will-be, Shane.

Shane’s a federal marshal and his choice to pursue that career is ultimately what broke up his fledgling relationship with Dakota after they graduated from college. Really, it was a misunderstanding on both of their parts due to complete and utter obstinacy. *HITS HEAD AGAINST WALL* But Shane’s not sold on continuing this career for the rest of his life – and when he hears about Dakota’s father, he takes a leave of absence and injects himself into the investigation – and into Dakota’s life. Shane’s willing and ready to do whatever it takes to be back in Dakota’s life and I LOVED that about him.

There’s a decent amount of suspense, and while some of it is predictable, I gave zero fucks. The story is well written and the passion between Dakota and Shane is palpable and deep. Shane is a god in the kitchen and the bedroom, which basically makes him the perfect man. The tension ratcheted higher and higher every time they were together and I was completely hooked. Like, I-read-until-1am-even-though-I-had-to-get-up-to-go-to-court-in-the-morning hooked.

Engaging, thoughtful, suspenseful & smutty – I totally loved it!

[I received an ARC of this book via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review]
This review looks prettier on my blog: http://obsessedwithmyshelf.com/2015/0...

[Michelle · Rating 3 out of 5]

**You can see this full review and more at Book Briefs: http://bookbriefs.net** 

Two of Hearts is a standalone new adult romance by Christina Lee. I have read, and totally loved, a handful of books in Christina Lee's new adult Between Breaths series. This book had a different vibe to it. It works great as a standalone as well. I really enjoyed this second chance romance between Shane and Dakota, and I loved the insight it gave me into the Native American and reservation culture. That is not a culture that I have explored much before, and it was cool to see it incorporated in this new adult contemporary.

Dakota's father ran a successful casino in her community, so when he died the casino fell to her and her mother. The problem is that her mother is 100% dutch and Dakota is 50% dutch. Some members of the Native American community saw this as a betrayal of sorts and had an issue with "an outsider" running such a profitable community business. I thought this was an interesting point of drama and strife in Two of Hearts. It added a different layer of complexity to the story and even to the romance.

Shane comes home to pay his respects to Dakota's father, since he grew up and worked in the casino. Shane is a US Marshall and soon he gets wrapped up investigating the death and wrapped up in Dakota himself. I am such a sucker for a second chance romance, and I think what I liked the most about Shane and Dakota is how well they really and truly understand each other. Dakota and I had a bit of a bumpy start, but I grew to love her. Initially, I had my feathers ruffled over how she handled her first chance at love with Shane in the past. I thought it was a typical "girl" move to try and test him and then let him go when he didn't react the way she wanted. Even though she didn't want him to leave she told him to. We all do it sometimes, it is like we can't help it. But it still aggravates me when mind games like that happen. Because everyone loses. But anyway, I digress. Their first chance didn't work out, but that brings us to their wonderfully crafted second chance at love. I really enjoyed going their their ups and downs.

Christina Lee is such an emotional writer. It makes for great contemporary romances. While I didn't love this book as much as the books in her Between Breaths series, I did really enjoy it. Shane and Dakota will make you experience a range of emotions and you will be rooting for them. Two of Hearts is a solidly good book. And I thought the cultural aspect of the book was just as well done as the romance. So kudos to Christina Lee for that!

 This review was originally posted on Book Briefs

[Lacey (laceybooklovers) · Rating 3 out of 5]

Originally posted at Booklovers For Life

Two of Hearts is the first book I’ve read from Christina Lee. I’d really been looking forward to this one when I read the blurb since I LOVE second chance romances. I found Two of Hearts fairly enjoyable, but sadly, the romance and plot were a bit underwhelming. Still, I really liked the underlying sense of family and friendship tied with the Indian culture that’s portrayed heavily in this book.

Dakota and Shane were each other’s first loves, but when the time came for them to fight for their love, they instead let each other go. They reunite under unfortunate circumstances, at Dakota’s father’s funeral. Dakota and Shane have grown to their full potential in their separated years, but the chemistry between them hasn’t faded for a second. But while Dakota is hesitant to start something again with the boy who broke her heart, Shane recognizes that Dakota is the only girl meant for him and he fights for them and their relationship.

“Don’t you know how much I’ve thought of you over the years? Wondered how you were doing, if you were okay? Whether you still thought of me, too?”

I really would have liked the romance to take center stage, but the book focuses a lot on the casino that Dakota is running. Dakota and her family are being attacked for inheriting an Indian casino but not being fully Indian. There’s a suspenseful angle to this novel, with suspicious characters that Shane, as a U.S. Marshal, is investigating. I found the suspense a bit boring, so I couldn’t enjoy this book as much as I wanted to.

What I liked about Shane and Dakota was how when they separated, they were able to fully grow and follow their ambitions. They didn’t hold each other back, and once they became the people they wanted to be, they found each other again. Even though I didn’t connect with the main characters, I found their story to be sweet and sexy.

This was a good, but not great, read. I was bored during the middle of the book, at least until the suspense finally picked up. If you’re a fan of second chance romances, you should give this a try.

Quotes are taken from the ARC and are subject to change in the final version.

Thanks to the publisher for generously providing me an ARC to review.

Amazon Ebook: http://amzn.to/1DzsiT4
Amazon Paperback: http://amzn.to/1wMKXfk

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