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U.S. Marshals #1
One Night More
Savvy, hard-riding, rule-breaking—they’ll go anywhere and do anything it takes to protect and serve. But this U. S. Marshal has just met his match—and playing for keeps is one sizzling game…
Getting saved from disaster by a handsome stranger—Harper Allen has no problem with that. But when he leaves without a word or a clue to his real identity, the newbie reporter writes it off as the best one-night-stand she’ll ever have. Until a year later, when Harper comes face to face with the man assigned to hide her from a senator’s killer…
Galen Kelly hasn’t forgotten a single sensual minute of his night with Harper . . . or that she betrayed him. With the FBI also on their trail, he’s got to pretend he’s never met her or risk both their lives. But as danger closes in, Galen may not be able to protect himself from taking the biggest risk of all…
“I couldn’t turn the pages fast enough.” —Tracey Garvis Graves”
352 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 2, 2014
81 people are currently reading
1253 people want to read
About the author
Mandy Baxter
20 books159 followersMandy Baxter lives in rural Idaho. She’s a part-time pet wrangler, a full-time sun worshiper, and only goes out into the cold when coerced. She loves black clothes, pink appliances and thinks junk food should be a recognized food group. In the summer, she can be found sitting by the lake, enjoying the view from her dock.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 111 reviews
August 8, 2019
You could create a black hole made entirely of stupid with the amount of it contained in this book. I hate to say this because I kind of liked Harper. I would have liked her more if she hadn't been quite so very dumb. For a crack reporter racing to the top of her profession, she sure was thick. And that's before you get to her man-candy, Galen. That boy was dumber than a box of hammers made of purified dumbium. He's the best of the best the US Marshal service has to offer? Seriously? And that's before you get to him being a complete asshat to Harper. I'm sorry, but no amount of sexual prowess can make up for his ongoing behavior. And I really disliked how easily Harper let him off the hook for it once he finally succumbed to her feminine wiles.
I'd give examples, but frankly, life is too short. If you take this on the surface, you're probably okay. I made the mistake of taking the plot seriously, however, and just couldn't make it all the way through...
I'd give examples, but frankly, life is too short. If you take this on the surface, you're probably okay. I made the mistake of taking the plot seriously, however, and just couldn't make it all the way through...
February 17, 2016
One More Night
2 Stars
U.S. Marshal Galen Kelly and budding journalist Harper Allen share one scorching hot night of passion without knowing each others’ names. Things are, however, different in the cold light of dawn and Galen and Harper go their separate ways. One year later, Harper witnesses the murder of a senator and the Marshal assigned to lead her protection detail is none other than the man who break her heart. Can Galen and Harper overcome their differences before it is too late?
Although this book has many of my favorite tropes and starts out really well, the author’s tendency to tell rather than show alongside the heroine’s multiple TSTL moments and the hero’s judgmental hypocrisy all serve to ruin an otherwise solid premise.
For a supposedly intelligent woman, Harper is a blithering idiot. Not only does she ditch her security detail even though she is well aware of the threat against her life, but she withholds crucial evidence in a murder investigation.
Galen is the newest entry into my anti-hottie harem. The man may be gorgeous and a “Greek god” in bed, but he has turned jumping to conclusions and making snap judgements into an art form. His treatment of Harper after their reunion is simply unforgivable.
Although Harper and Galen do have some intense chemistry and Baxter knows how to write a sizzling sex scene, the romance is problematic mainly due to the silly misunderstanding trope that could have been avoided with even the shortest of conversations and the fact that Harper is far too forgiving of Galen’s behavior once the truth comes out.
The mystery takes a back seat to Galen and Harpers' repetitive musings and is so underdeveloped as to be virtually non-existent. It is so weak that I’m not classifying this as romantic suspense even though the premise seems to lean in that direction.
All in all, the lack of tension, the weak romance and the irritating characters do not make for an appealing read. It is unlikely that I will be continuing with the series.
2 Stars
U.S. Marshal Galen Kelly and budding journalist Harper Allen share one scorching hot night of passion without knowing each others’ names. Things are, however, different in the cold light of dawn and Galen and Harper go their separate ways. One year later, Harper witnesses the murder of a senator and the Marshal assigned to lead her protection detail is none other than the man who break her heart. Can Galen and Harper overcome their differences before it is too late?
Although this book has many of my favorite tropes and starts out really well, the author’s tendency to tell rather than show alongside the heroine’s multiple TSTL moments and the hero’s judgmental hypocrisy all serve to ruin an otherwise solid premise.
For a supposedly intelligent woman, Harper is a blithering idiot. Not only does she ditch her security detail even though she is well aware of the threat against her life, but she withholds crucial evidence in a murder investigation.
Galen is the newest entry into my anti-hottie harem. The man may be gorgeous and a “Greek god” in bed, but he has turned jumping to conclusions and making snap judgements into an art form. His treatment of Harper after their reunion is simply unforgivable.
Although Harper and Galen do have some intense chemistry and Baxter knows how to write a sizzling sex scene, the romance is problematic mainly due to the silly misunderstanding trope that could have been avoided with even the shortest of conversations and the fact that Harper is far too forgiving of Galen’s behavior once the truth comes out.
The mystery takes a back seat to Galen and Harpers' repetitive musings and is so underdeveloped as to be virtually non-existent. It is so weak that I’m not classifying this as romantic suspense even though the premise seems to lean in that direction.
All in all, the lack of tension, the weak romance and the irritating characters do not make for an appealing read. It is unlikely that I will be continuing with the series.
August 31, 2014
Mandy Baxter kickstarts her U.S. Marshals series with a hot romp in the sack between her U.S. Marshal hottie, Galen Kelly and journalist heroine, Harper Allen. The night is filled with explosive chemistry but once the morning light comes, the flame is quick to burn out when Galen needs to leave for an assignment.
A year has passed and when an incident involving a well-known senator and Harper makes the news, Galen is recruited to protect her from the killer. Though both remember their night together with intense vividness, Galen pretends to not remember because it would put his job at stake and he isn’t willing to allow anyone, not even his best friend, Landon to watch over Harper. She means too much to him to do that.
However, Harper isn’t the frail little being that Galen makes her out to be. She doesn’t need protecting, though it’s probably wise that she stays behind closed doors. But Harper has a mind of her own, which definitely makes Galen’s job more difficult. I LOVED Harper. I found that her reactions to a lot of the suspenseful events in this book to be fun and endearing and quite realistic actually. Nothing seemed too over the top and I like that about Baxter’s writing quite a bit. Everything has a logical approach and as a result, I think it makes this first book a strong one to start with.
The beginning is quite easy-going as Baxter sets up the scene in the first 20% of the book. While in the end, I could understand why that initial meeting and first sexual encounter was needed to be shown rather than told in the beginning, it did feel a little bit too relaxed. I much preferred when the book hit the 20% mark as the author really sets the book into motion and we finally get Galen and Harper together again. I think it would have also made it easier for readers to understand why Galen acted the way he did when he saw and recognized Harper after a year had passed instead of getting frustrated with their communication error. Yet, nevertheless, I was completely sold on them by the end.
The U.S. Marshals series definitely takes a more Contemporary Romance approach with several good suspense aspects that kick things up a notch. If you’re a fan of Julie James’ FBI/US Attorney series, then you’ll definitely enjoy Baxter’s debut into the genre. ONE NIGHT MORE is a delightful dance of suspense and steamy romance.
*ARC provided by author
August 25, 2014
****Full Review****
2.7 stars
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Harper is a political reporter who will do anything for the story, Galen is a strict by the book U.S. Marshal, and both can't keep their hands off of each other. After meeting at a bar Harper and Galen had one night of hot unbridled bedroom passion. Even though it was only one night they both developed feelings, however, due to the requisite Big Misunderstanding, Galen left Harper in the morning without so much as a fare thee well. Now, one year later, Harper has witnessed the murder of a U.S. Senator and Galen is assigned to help protect her as the senator's killer is looking to tie up his loose end, Harper.
Harper really annoyed me; heroines like her are the bane of my existence in romantic suspense. She constantly is trying to ditch her protective detail and withholds key evidence from the FBI. You could say Harper is bold, brash, and courageous or you could say she is pretty stupid. The way she disrespects and disregards Galen in his capacity of a U.S. Marshal is incredibly off putting. Galen is a strong, solid, if not generic hero. Together, they have some steamy bedroom scenes but because of Harper's attitude towards her situation and Galen's role in her protective detail and the Big Misunderstanding still hanging around, they are more often than not at odds.
The suspense story arc keeps the story rolling and sets a nice pace; this is an easy steady read. For a debut book, the writing is wonderfully solid; it's just that the characters slightly veered into caricature land at times. If you're new to romance you're probably going to like this but if you're a veteran you're going to recognize it's been done before and better. Readers of "Something About You" by Julie James will notice the similarities of plot and this story is written in the same vein. This author definitely has potential and I plan on reading the next book in the series to give her another chance. One Night More is good but it simply needed to give me more.
2.7 stars
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Harper is a political reporter who will do anything for the story, Galen is a strict by the book U.S. Marshal, and both can't keep their hands off of each other. After meeting at a bar Harper and Galen had one night of hot unbridled bedroom passion. Even though it was only one night they both developed feelings, however, due to the requisite Big Misunderstanding, Galen left Harper in the morning without so much as a fare thee well. Now, one year later, Harper has witnessed the murder of a U.S. Senator and Galen is assigned to help protect her as the senator's killer is looking to tie up his loose end, Harper.
Harper really annoyed me; heroines like her are the bane of my existence in romantic suspense. She constantly is trying to ditch her protective detail and withholds key evidence from the FBI. You could say Harper is bold, brash, and courageous or you could say she is pretty stupid. The way she disrespects and disregards Galen in his capacity of a U.S. Marshal is incredibly off putting. Galen is a strong, solid, if not generic hero. Together, they have some steamy bedroom scenes but because of Harper's attitude towards her situation and Galen's role in her protective detail and the Big Misunderstanding still hanging around, they are more often than not at odds.
The suspense story arc keeps the story rolling and sets a nice pace; this is an easy steady read. For a debut book, the writing is wonderfully solid; it's just that the characters slightly veered into caricature land at times. If you're new to romance you're probably going to like this but if you're a veteran you're going to recognize it's been done before and better. Readers of "Something About You" by Julie James will notice the similarities of plot and this story is written in the same vein. This author definitely has potential and I plan on reading the next book in the series to give her another chance. One Night More is good but it simply needed to give me more.
July 10, 2014
Well, this was one KICK-A$$ debut!!!! A perfect blend of STEAMY romance and nail-biting suspense, and I ABSOLUTELY LOVED IT!!!!! Will write a proper review soon, BUT I can't wait to read more from Mandy Baxter now AND it looks like the next book in this series will be about Landon... *EXCITED*
*ARC courtesy of Netgalley and Kensington Books*
*ARC courtesy of Netgalley and Kensington Books*
September 5, 2014
3 ½ stars – Contemporary Romance/Romantic Suspense
September 24, 2014
This was a case of getting grabsie because I saw it was about a US Marshal and was in the mood for some romantic suspense. I hadn't read the author's works before under any of her pen names and this was a new series so it seemed a good place to start. I would love to say that I found it a wonderful or even just a pleasant experience, but unfortunately, it got me worked up and not in a good way. I'll get to that all later, but first I'll summarize the story.
The story opens with Galen going out to the bar with his fellow US Marshal and buddy, Landon, to celebrate his graduation from a special elite marshal training he passed and getting picked for a prestigious security detail in Paris. While they're enjoying their drinks, Galen spies a beautiful woman right as a sleaze bag drops a pill into her drink. He turns into the hero of the hour when he prevents her from drinking the drugged liquor and captures the guy. After a little flirtation, he ends up going back to her place for a truly memorable night of sexy times. In the morning, he gets a look at a line of texts from 'Chris' acting very boyfriendish and realizes that he slept with a cheater. He sneaks off angry and hurt.
Harper is a geek for Superheroes and dreams of being a star political reporter. She has her job at a big Portland newspaper and is on the hunt to discover what the 'honest' Senator Ellis is hiding. If, on occasion, she painfully remembers the one hot night she spent with her mystery man and wonders yet again what she did to drive him to leave with no word, it's probably good that she is so focused on her work because she just knows no other guy will compare. It is after an attempt to snare Ellis for an interview in his parking garage only to witness him gunned down that she meets her mystery man in a startling way- he's the US Marshal assigned to protect her, the witness. He also seems oblivious that they even met which wounds her enough to throw caution to the wind and turn into a hostile witness.
Galen is sent reeling at the sight of Harper, but he pulls it together in front of his boss. He can't help how hard he is on her when she turns into a brat and refuses to cooperate with the safety measures going so far as to do a runner refusing to see the danger. Meanwhile, the FBI agent in charge of the case has a hard on that Harper is involved in Ellis' death and someone is still out there willing to do murder to protect their secrets. Galen and Harper spend the next several days circling each other both still attracted, but both still hurt.
Okay...sigh...this book started out so good with that opening scene and the subsequent trouble caused by the misunderstood text messages, but then it went downhill fast for me. I ran up against two big issues for me: Harper's personality and behavior and not being able to suspend belief that a rookie political journalist and a well-trained US Marshal would behave this way even in fiction.
Okay, I'll start with the disbelief. Honestly, Harper and Galen took turns pulling stuff that I just couldn't believe people in their positions would do. If the villain hadn't also been inept considering his background and training then she would have been dead so many times over with Galen right beside her. It grew to the point where I sat there and made a game of all the things in the scene that were a problem and I only have my knowledge from fiction books, TV and movies. This weakened the story for me. And their 'we met as strangers in a bar jumped into bed with no promises', but then both spending most of the book acting hurt and betrayed had me scratching my head. I know fiction relationships happen quicker and deeper, but my stars!
But the bigger issue for me was Harper. *deep breath* The first scene in the Marshals' office left me with my jaw hanging. I haven't seen a heroine act so immature, spoilt, selfish and- I need to stop. You get the idea. She is one of the stupidest heroines I've encountered in a while. She witnessed a political murder with the murderer actually getting her voice recorder before being driven away by people arriving on the scene. He later uses the recorder to send her messages with it to remind her that he has her in his crosshairs, but she's all 'It didn't all go down that way if I just pretend it never happened (ostrich/sand). I need my normal life. I will work. I will live at home with the flimsy little locks and my blinds wide open. I will runoff from my protectors every chance I get particularly if I get a donut craving.' Then throughout the book, she hides evidence from the investigators because she, of course, can investigate better than any people professionally trained to do so. She constantly pushes and questions Galen's security measures and even plans to seduce him to do one of her runners even after realizing she really cares for him. He'll lose his career and maybe get prosecuted right along beside her, but if they survive and then get caught obstructing justice at least she can claim to care for him. Who lets their best friend come over to their home just to chit chat and push your point with the nice Marshals that you are in charge when you know you are a target and may now have just made someone think your bestie now knows what you know? Then later bullnosing her way with Galen to take her to a meeting with another person involved in the case then insisting on going in unguarded when-- surprise, shots are fired and Galen took one for her to protect her. Oh and now she's going to come clean about all the evidence, but right before that she's got to smart off at the man (she claims to love) she endangered just because he might feel a teensy bit upset about being used and lied to and might lose his career for you. Oh and the grand finale scene? Shouldn't have been necessary, but you see, she wasn't done going for the stupid moves. Ugh! Why did I even stick with this girl's story? Because I was totally waiting for her to grow the heck up. Didn't happen.
Now it wasn't total misery for me. I did enjoy the suspense of learning why the Senator was killed and who was behind it. They were pretty scorching together as a couple too. I also think the idea of a series about US Marshals and learning about what they do is fascinating. Landon was a fun secondary character and his story is next. I might pick it up just to see if a change in heroine will make a difference.
In the end, I had troubles with this one, but I think others that enjoy mild romantic suspense might want to try it.
My thanks to Net Galley for the opportunity to read this one in exchange for an honest review.
The story opens with Galen going out to the bar with his fellow US Marshal and buddy, Landon, to celebrate his graduation from a special elite marshal training he passed and getting picked for a prestigious security detail in Paris. While they're enjoying their drinks, Galen spies a beautiful woman right as a sleaze bag drops a pill into her drink. He turns into the hero of the hour when he prevents her from drinking the drugged liquor and captures the guy. After a little flirtation, he ends up going back to her place for a truly memorable night of sexy times. In the morning, he gets a look at a line of texts from 'Chris' acting very boyfriendish and realizes that he slept with a cheater. He sneaks off angry and hurt.
Harper is a geek for Superheroes and dreams of being a star political reporter. She has her job at a big Portland newspaper and is on the hunt to discover what the 'honest' Senator Ellis is hiding. If, on occasion, she painfully remembers the one hot night she spent with her mystery man and wonders yet again what she did to drive him to leave with no word, it's probably good that she is so focused on her work because she just knows no other guy will compare. It is after an attempt to snare Ellis for an interview in his parking garage only to witness him gunned down that she meets her mystery man in a startling way- he's the US Marshal assigned to protect her, the witness. He also seems oblivious that they even met which wounds her enough to throw caution to the wind and turn into a hostile witness.
Galen is sent reeling at the sight of Harper, but he pulls it together in front of his boss. He can't help how hard he is on her when she turns into a brat and refuses to cooperate with the safety measures going so far as to do a runner refusing to see the danger. Meanwhile, the FBI agent in charge of the case has a hard on that Harper is involved in Ellis' death and someone is still out there willing to do murder to protect their secrets. Galen and Harper spend the next several days circling each other both still attracted, but both still hurt.
Okay...sigh...this book started out so good with that opening scene and the subsequent trouble caused by the misunderstood text messages, but then it went downhill fast for me. I ran up against two big issues for me: Harper's personality and behavior and not being able to suspend belief that a rookie political journalist and a well-trained US Marshal would behave this way even in fiction.
Okay, I'll start with the disbelief. Honestly, Harper and Galen took turns pulling stuff that I just couldn't believe people in their positions would do. If the villain hadn't also been inept considering his background and training then she would have been dead so many times over with Galen right beside her. It grew to the point where I sat there and made a game of all the things in the scene that were a problem and I only have my knowledge from fiction books, TV and movies. This weakened the story for me. And their 'we met as strangers in a bar jumped into bed with no promises', but then both spending most of the book acting hurt and betrayed had me scratching my head. I know fiction relationships happen quicker and deeper, but my stars!
But the bigger issue for me was Harper. *deep breath* The first scene in the Marshals' office left me with my jaw hanging. I haven't seen a heroine act so immature, spoilt, selfish and- I need to stop. You get the idea. She is one of the stupidest heroines I've encountered in a while. She witnessed a political murder with the murderer actually getting her voice recorder before being driven away by people arriving on the scene. He later uses the recorder to send her messages with it to remind her that he has her in his crosshairs, but she's all 'It didn't all go down that way if I just pretend it never happened (ostrich/sand). I need my normal life. I will work. I will live at home with the flimsy little locks and my blinds wide open. I will runoff from my protectors every chance I get particularly if I get a donut craving.' Then throughout the book, she hides evidence from the investigators because she, of course, can investigate better than any people professionally trained to do so. She constantly pushes and questions Galen's security measures and even plans to seduce him to do one of her runners even after realizing she really cares for him. He'll lose his career and maybe get prosecuted right along beside her, but if they survive and then get caught obstructing justice at least she can claim to care for him. Who lets their best friend come over to their home just to chit chat and push your point with the nice Marshals that you are in charge when you know you are a target and may now have just made someone think your bestie now knows what you know? Then later bullnosing her way with Galen to take her to a meeting with another person involved in the case then insisting on going in unguarded when-- surprise, shots are fired and Galen took one for her to protect her. Oh and now she's going to come clean about all the evidence, but right before that she's got to smart off at the man (she claims to love) she endangered just because he might feel a teensy bit upset about being used and lied to and might lose his career for you. Oh and the grand finale scene? Shouldn't have been necessary, but you see, she wasn't done going for the stupid moves. Ugh! Why did I even stick with this girl's story? Because I was totally waiting for her to grow the heck up. Didn't happen.
Now it wasn't total misery for me. I did enjoy the suspense of learning why the Senator was killed and who was behind it. They were pretty scorching together as a couple too. I also think the idea of a series about US Marshals and learning about what they do is fascinating. Landon was a fun secondary character and his story is next. I might pick it up just to see if a change in heroine will make a difference.
In the end, I had troubles with this one, but I think others that enjoy mild romantic suspense might want to try it.
My thanks to Net Galley for the opportunity to read this one in exchange for an honest review.
September 1, 2014
I requested the ARC of this from NetGalley with blind eyes – I never read anything from Mandy Baxter before – simply because I thought the blurb sounded promising. Well, one thing is for sure, this book was pretty entertaining.
The opening of this book was fun – Galen saved Harper when a creep at a bar tried to secretly drug her drink. Right after that, they went home together. I am not a big fan of a romance that starts immediately with hooking-up or one-night stands. However, there was a strong chemistry between Galen and Harper – and their bonding over superheroes, along with some fun banter, made it enjoyable. The whole misunderstanding after that one night was, well, quite acceptable due to circumstances.
After a one-year separation, they met again when Galen was assigned a protective detail on Harper. Galen had to pretend that he forgot about her, because well, Harper clearly had been haunting his dreams, and if Galen told his boss that they were both involved at one time, he would be taken off the assignment in an instant. It was a sign of Ms. Baxter’s good writing that I was fully entertained with reading Galen and Harper pretty much having sexual frustration over the whole thing!! Especially because, for both, that one night was incredible…
The mystery/suspense portion was pretty light, in my opinion, even if it started with a senator being killed within inches of Harper. I had to admit that Harper did several things that tipped into a criteria of being “too stupid to live” – especially when she was trying to do some risky things in the name of the story. But, I guess with Harper being a reporter – and you know how sometimes they prefer story over their own life – made me able to forgive her. Yes, she did some stupid things, but she also admitted that it endangered her life and Galen’s. So I couldn’t completely be angry towards her.
Galen, on the other hand ... well, let’s just say that as someone who was handpicked to be apart of the elite Special Operation Group, Galen didn’t impress me with how he handled things near the end. But again, it was proof of a good storytelling that I couldn’t find myself truly annoyed with the fact either. Probably because I kept smiling at the idea of Galen being a sucker for Harper for the rest of his life *laugh*
So, all in all, it was a fun romance with a dash of suspense (I said ‘dash’ because again, it was pretty light) with likable characters. I didn’t care much for the flimsy plot here and there, because I was enjoying the characters and their banters. One thing, I sure will be there for the next book which will feature Galen’s friend, Landon.
A Guest Review for The Blogger Girls
The ARC is provided by the publisher via Netgalley for an exchange of fair and honest review. No high rating is required for any ARC received.
The opening of this book was fun – Galen saved Harper when a creep at a bar tried to secretly drug her drink. Right after that, they went home together. I am not a big fan of a romance that starts immediately with hooking-up or one-night stands. However, there was a strong chemistry between Galen and Harper – and their bonding over superheroes, along with some fun banter, made it enjoyable. The whole misunderstanding after that one night was, well, quite acceptable due to circumstances.
After a one-year separation, they met again when Galen was assigned a protective detail on Harper. Galen had to pretend that he forgot about her, because well, Harper clearly had been haunting his dreams, and if Galen told his boss that they were both involved at one time, he would be taken off the assignment in an instant. It was a sign of Ms. Baxter’s good writing that I was fully entertained with reading Galen and Harper pretty much having sexual frustration over the whole thing!! Especially because, for both, that one night was incredible…
Soccer. His grandma. Gunshot wounds. Damn it, he needed to get his mind off the thick locks of her auburn hair. A tangle of curls he wanted to bury his face in ... Landon in a bikini. Okay, that would be straight-up hilarious.
The mystery/suspense portion was pretty light, in my opinion, even if it started with a senator being killed within inches of Harper. I had to admit that Harper did several things that tipped into a criteria of being “too stupid to live” – especially when she was trying to do some risky things in the name of the story. But, I guess with Harper being a reporter – and you know how sometimes they prefer story over their own life – made me able to forgive her. Yes, she did some stupid things, but she also admitted that it endangered her life and Galen’s. So I couldn’t completely be angry towards her.
Still, she wasn’t going to disrespect him by running off without a word, or ditch him at his sister’s bakery like she’d originally planned. Not after everything that had just happened. And she’d much rather be reckless with Galen at her side than go it alone.
Galen, on the other hand ... well, let’s just say that as someone who was handpicked to be apart of the elite Special Operation Group, Galen didn’t impress me with how he handled things near the end. But again, it was proof of a good storytelling that I couldn’t find myself truly annoyed with the fact either. Probably because I kept smiling at the idea of Galen being a sucker for Harper for the rest of his life *laugh*
So, all in all, it was a fun romance with a dash of suspense (I said ‘dash’ because again, it was pretty light) with likable characters. I didn’t care much for the flimsy plot here and there, because I was enjoying the characters and their banters. One thing, I sure will be there for the next book which will feature Galen’s friend, Landon.
A Guest Review for The Blogger Girls
The ARC is provided by the publisher via Netgalley for an exchange of fair and honest review. No high rating is required for any ARC received.
October 16, 2014
Coffee dates with One More Night
First Date: Holy melts your pants hotness. Baxter introduces us to Galen Kelly, a hot, dedicated U.S. Marshal who has recently been promoted and flies out to Paris in the morning. He is at the bar with his best friend and fellow marshal when he witnesses a jerk slipping a roofie into a girls drink. The girl turns out to be recently graduated journalist Harper Allen. The two share some drinks, engage in conversation, laugh end up having the hotness hook-up ever. A misunderstanding has the two parting ways in the am, before learning each other’s name.
Second date: Fast-forward a year and our heroine Harper Allen is an ace reporter, and in some serious trouble. Eager to get an interview with an elected official she witnesses a murder and finds herself a target. Hehe..you know where this is going right? Yep, Galen Kelly and his team are assigned to protect Harper. Both are flabbergasted, but Galen pretends he doesn’t recognize her. Ouch. The attraction between the two makes the air crackle with sexual tension, but his career and miscommunication, no scratch that..the lack of communication has them both feeling hot and bothered. Things are complicated from the FBI, to someone wanting Harper dead. Harper begins investigating and keeps slipping the marshals. I think Galen needs to put her over his knee. One More Night is well paced, and between the tension and murder mystery, I was completely engaged.
Third date: Holy hotness…Baxter brings on the heat even as she notches up the danger. The chemistry and their emotions feel genuine. At this point, I am not setting the book down; laundry be damned. The story wrapped up nicely and didn’t feel rushed, allowing me to bask in the closure and savior my HEA. One Night More was an excellent start to the series, despite a few eye rolls regarding procedures I was satisfied with this sexy, intense story. Landon McCabe, U.S. Marshal and best friend of Galen has his story next and I am excited. I enjoyed the banter and snark between Galen and Landon.
This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Book Reviewer
First Date: Holy melts your pants hotness. Baxter introduces us to Galen Kelly, a hot, dedicated U.S. Marshal who has recently been promoted and flies out to Paris in the morning. He is at the bar with his best friend and fellow marshal when he witnesses a jerk slipping a roofie into a girls drink. The girl turns out to be recently graduated journalist Harper Allen. The two share some drinks, engage in conversation, laugh end up having the hotness hook-up ever. A misunderstanding has the two parting ways in the am, before learning each other’s name.
Second date: Fast-forward a year and our heroine Harper Allen is an ace reporter, and in some serious trouble. Eager to get an interview with an elected official she witnesses a murder and finds herself a target. Hehe..you know where this is going right? Yep, Galen Kelly and his team are assigned to protect Harper. Both are flabbergasted, but Galen pretends he doesn’t recognize her. Ouch. The attraction between the two makes the air crackle with sexual tension, but his career and miscommunication, no scratch that..the lack of communication has them both feeling hot and bothered. Things are complicated from the FBI, to someone wanting Harper dead. Harper begins investigating and keeps slipping the marshals. I think Galen needs to put her over his knee. One More Night is well paced, and between the tension and murder mystery, I was completely engaged.
Third date: Holy hotness…Baxter brings on the heat even as she notches up the danger. The chemistry and their emotions feel genuine. At this point, I am not setting the book down; laundry be damned. The story wrapped up nicely and didn’t feel rushed, allowing me to bask in the closure and savior my HEA. One Night More was an excellent start to the series, despite a few eye rolls regarding procedures I was satisfied with this sexy, intense story. Landon McCabe, U.S. Marshal and best friend of Galen has his story next and I am excited. I enjoyed the banter and snark between Galen and Landon.
This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Book Reviewer
July 15, 2014
This was fantastic! I loved this book! Harper Allen is a journalist out for a night with friends and meets a handsome stranger. They have one sexy night together and she doesn't see him again for a year when he is assigned to protect her. Galen Kelly is a US Marshall and is assigned to protect a reporter who is in danger, it turns out the girl he's protecting is his one night stand that he can't get out of his head. This book had everything, a little humor, suspense, mystery, politics, fun banter and sexy times. I could not put this book down it was so good! I can't wait to read more in this series! Highly recommend!
*ARC received by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
*ARC received by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
August 31, 2014
After an uncharacteristic one night stand, Harper Allen and Galen Kelly have an amazing connection. But misunderstandings have Galen walking away. After a year in Paris, he's back in the US working for the Marshall service and his first protective detail is none other than Harper.
This is a fantastic read and I recommend it to everyone! The characters are fun, the banter hilarious, and you can just feel the chemistry. Its a great story that keeps you turning the page. I can't wait for the next book in this new series.
This is a fantastic read and I recommend it to everyone! The characters are fun, the banter hilarious, and you can just feel the chemistry. Its a great story that keeps you turning the page. I can't wait for the next book in this new series.
September 1, 2014
Originally posted at The Book Nympho
Harper and Galen meet in bar one night. She's there to celebrate finishing her degree in journalism and Galen is there having a drink with his best friend and fellow U.S. Marshal, Landon before he heads over to France for a year-long assignment. Galen saves Harper from a creep at the bar and ends up going home with her. After a misunderstanding Galen leaves Harper's bed before she wakes leaving her wondering what she did wrong. Then they are thrown together a year later in a surprising way. Galen has been assigned to protect Harper after she witnesses a murder.
The Romance
Smoking!
Galen and Harper can't get that one night from a year ago out of their minds. Yes that night together was that good! Galen thinks that Harper lied to him that night and used him. Harper thinks that Galen is one of those guys that has some many one night stands that he doesn't even remember her when he sees her again.
These two have some serious chemistry and not just in the bedroom (although O.M.G! is that bedroom action HOT). The banter between Harper and Galen is some of the best romance banter I've read in a while in a contemporary romance.
Between the sexual tension, banter and danger Harper and Galen is a smoking couple to read about.
The Suspense
ONE NIGHT MORE had just enough suspense that even die hard romantic suspense fans will be satisfied. With the suspense and mystery was balanced perfectly with the romance for me.
Final Thought
How can you not like a heroine that's a comic book nerd and a huge fan of Supernatural?! And of course a sexy U.S. Marshal didn't hurt this romance at all. I can't wait to get my hands on book 2, ONE KISS MORE. I just know that Landon's story is going to be great!
Fun Scene
I have not stayed up to 3 am to finish a book in a LONG TIME. But once I got sucked into Mandy Baxter's ONE NIGHT MORE I had to finish it.
Harper and Galen meet in bar one night. She's there to celebrate finishing her degree in journalism and Galen is there having a drink with his best friend and fellow U.S. Marshal, Landon before he heads over to France for a year-long assignment. Galen saves Harper from a creep at the bar and ends up going home with her. After a misunderstanding Galen leaves Harper's bed before she wakes leaving her wondering what she did wrong. Then they are thrown together a year later in a surprising way. Galen has been assigned to protect Harper after she witnesses a murder.
The Romance
Smoking!
Galen and Harper can't get that one night from a year ago out of their minds. Yes that night together was that good! Galen thinks that Harper lied to him that night and used him. Harper thinks that Galen is one of those guys that has some many one night stands that he doesn't even remember her when he sees her again.
These two have some serious chemistry and not just in the bedroom (although O.M.G! is that bedroom action HOT). The banter between Harper and Galen is some of the best romance banter I've read in a while in a contemporary romance.
Between the sexual tension, banter and danger Harper and Galen is a smoking couple to read about.
The Suspense
ONE NIGHT MORE had just enough suspense that even die hard romantic suspense fans will be satisfied. With the suspense and mystery was balanced perfectly with the romance for me.
Final Thought
How can you not like a heroine that's a comic book nerd and a huge fan of Supernatural?! And of course a sexy U.S. Marshal didn't hurt this romance at all. I can't wait to get my hands on book 2, ONE KISS MORE. I just know that Landon's story is going to be great!
Fun Scene
"Yeah, the guys on Supernatural are smoking hot. Would I stop watching if Dean Winchester walked around in his tighty whities every episode? Hell, no. " (Harper)
"You don't watch that show and think about all of the ways you'd defile those smoking hot demon hunters?" (Galen)
"I watch it for the world building." (Harper)
April 26, 2023
Do books where the hero and heroine jump to conclusions in a single bound and continue to stew in their misconceptions page after page after page inexplicably thrill you? If so, you might like One Night More. Otherwise, you will probably want to fill your romantic suspense needs elsewhere. This novel provides some suspenseful moments, but many readers will also spend way too much time wanting to knock some sense into the leads.
Now it's not all bad. The story actually starts off hot and promising as US Marshal Galen Kelly and recent college grad Harper Allen meet in a bar and then end up sharing a mind-blowing night of passion. After having some amazing sex, Galen lies awake thinking about how this woman is different from all others and even if he seems to have made a rather sudden decision, I was willing to go with it because up until this point, I rather liked the characters. So, what happens next? Galen goes snooping and finds something he doesn't like and instead of talking it over with Harper like a rational person might do, he just bolts.
We next meet our hero and heroine one year later. Galen is back in town,and Harper now works as a reporter. In chasing down the story that could be her next big break, Harper stumbles into the murder of a senator. Given her status as the only surviving witness to the crime, Harper ends up under the protection of the US Marshals. And guess who is in charge of her detail?
If you thought this would give Galen and Harper a chance for the much needed clearing of the air, you would be oh, so wrong. Galen continues to assume that Harper did him wrong, despite all evidence to the contrary. And the most frustrating part? The whole thing could have been resolved with one simple question and yet no one bothers to ask it until pretty far into the story. Brilliant investigative skills, Mr. Law Enforcement Hero.
This is a partial review. You can find the complete text at All About Romance: https://allaboutromance.com/book-revi...
Now it's not all bad. The story actually starts off hot and promising as US Marshal Galen Kelly and recent college grad Harper Allen meet in a bar and then end up sharing a mind-blowing night of passion. After having some amazing sex, Galen lies awake thinking about how this woman is different from all others and even if he seems to have made a rather sudden decision, I was willing to go with it because up until this point, I rather liked the characters. So, what happens next? Galen goes snooping and finds something he doesn't like and instead of talking it over with Harper like a rational person might do, he just bolts.
We next meet our hero and heroine one year later. Galen is back in town,and Harper now works as a reporter. In chasing down the story that could be her next big break, Harper stumbles into the murder of a senator. Given her status as the only surviving witness to the crime, Harper ends up under the protection of the US Marshals. And guess who is in charge of her detail?
If you thought this would give Galen and Harper a chance for the much needed clearing of the air, you would be oh, so wrong. Galen continues to assume that Harper did him wrong, despite all evidence to the contrary. And the most frustrating part? The whole thing could have been resolved with one simple question and yet no one bothers to ask it until pretty far into the story. Brilliant investigative skills, Mr. Law Enforcement Hero.
This is a partial review. You can find the complete text at All About Romance: https://allaboutromance.com/book-revi...
August 11, 2015
Received an ARC from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
On the surface this book had all the makings of a superb start to a snazzy new series: fabulous cover and set in the not-so-often-used law enforcement world of US Marshals. However, unfortunately it didn't live up to expectations.
A huge sticking point for me was the fact that we were meant to believe that after a one night stand, the two of them spent a year pining for each other. What is even more unbelievable is the fact Galen did this whilst believing she was a cheater.
Which brings me onto the next point: seriously, SERIOUSLY?! You work in law enforcement and seeing the name 'Chris' come up on a phone and you automatically think your girl must be cheating?! You don't, say, cast your eye around her apartment to look for signs that another male is in her life, or, you know, give her the benefit of the doubt since Chris could be a woman.
And I think the whole thing would have worked better if Chris actually had been one of Harper's female friends. Bringing in her ex-boyfriend for that one scene where he comes looking for his running shoes was pointless.
All that aside, there just wasn't enough chemistry between Galen/Harper for me to really root for them. I thought the "suspense" angle was pretty weak as it was obvious who the shooter was from the beginning and the stereotyping of the big bad FBI agent was comical at best.
So overall, great idea but weak execution.
www.loveisastateofmind.net
December 3, 2014
สนุกกว่าที่คิด เพราะหลังจากอ่านไปบทนึง เราวางทิ้งไว้เลิกอ่าน เพราะคิดว่า เดาพล็อตได้ แต่พอกลับมาอ่านอีกครั้ง เรื่องกลับพลิกไม่ใช่อย่างที่เราคิด และนั่นทำให้หนังสือเล่มนี้น่าสนใจขึ้นมา
แต่ตามตรงแล้ว เรื่องนี้ไม่ได้มีอะไรมากนะคะ ฮาร์เปอร์นางเอกของเรื่องไปอยู่ผิดที่ผิดทาง ขณะที่กำลังตามสัมภาษณ์นักการเมืองคนนึง เขากลับถูกลอบสังหาร ฮาร์เปอร์ดันเห็นฆาตกร และทำให้เธอกลายเป็นเป้าหมายไปด้วย และนั่นทำให้เธอถูกส่งไปอยู่ในความคุ้มครองของหน่วยยูเอสมาร์แชล และนำเธอกลับไปในวงโคจรของกาเลนอีกครั้งนึง
กาเลนซึ่งเพิ่งกลับมาจากภารกิจคุ้มครองนักการทูตในปารีสถูกมอบหมายให้มาดูแลความปลอดภัยของฮาร์เปอร์ แต่นี่ไม่ใช่ครั้งแรกที่ทั้งสองได้พบกัน ทั้งคู่เคยเจอกันในวันก่อนหน้าที่กาเลนจะเดินทางไปปารีสเมื่อหนึ่งปีก่อน ความสัมพันธ์ชั่วข้ามคืนที่กาเลนคิดว่า อาจจะเป็นอะไรได้มากยิ่งขึ้นถูกทำลายลง เพราะกาเลนเชื่อในคำหลอกลวงของชายอื่น (ที่แอบหมายปองฮาร์เปอร์) ทำให้เขาทิ้งเธอไปโดยไม่ร่ำลา
แน่นอนว่ากลับมาเจอกันอีกครั้ง ทั้งสองต้องอธิบายให้กันและกันฟังอีกเยอะ
พล็อตค่อนข้างมาตรฐาน เรื่องราวอ่านได้เรื่อย ๆ ไม่ถึงกับน่าประทับใจ แต่ไม่แย่นะคะ อย่างน้อยก็มากพอที่จะทำให้เราคิดว่าจะให้โอกาสอ่านเล่มสองในชุดต่อ
แต่ตามตรงแล้ว เรื่องนี้ไม่ได้มีอะไรมากนะคะ ฮาร์เปอร์นางเอกของเรื่องไปอยู่ผิดที่ผิดทาง ขณะที่กำลังตามสัมภาษณ์นักการเมืองคนนึง เขากลับถูกลอบสังหาร ฮาร์เปอร์ดันเห็นฆาตกร และทำให้เธอกลายเป็นเป้าหมายไปด้วย และนั่นทำให้เธอถูกส่งไปอยู่ในความคุ้มครองของหน่วยยูเอสมาร์แชล และนำเธอกลับไปในวงโคจรของกาเลนอีกครั้งนึง
กาเลนซึ่งเพิ่งกลับมาจากภารกิจคุ้มครองนักการทูตในปารีสถูกมอบหมายให้มาดูแลความปลอดภัยของฮาร์เปอร์ แต่นี่ไม่ใช่ครั้งแรกที่ทั้งสองได้พบกัน ทั้งคู่เคยเจอกันในวันก่อนหน้าที่กาเลนจะเดินทางไปปารีสเมื่อหนึ่งปีก่อน ความสัมพันธ์ชั่วข้ามคืนที่กาเลนคิดว่า อาจจะเป็นอะไรได้มากยิ่งขึ้นถูกทำลายลง เพราะกาเลนเชื่อในคำหลอกลวงของชายอื่น (ที่แอบหมายปองฮาร์เปอร์) ทำให้เขาทิ้งเธอไปโดยไม่ร่ำลา
แน่นอนว่ากลับมาเจอกันอีกครั้ง ทั้งสองต้องอธิบายให้กันและกันฟังอีกเยอะ
พล็อตค่อนข้างมาตรฐาน เรื่องราวอ่านได้เรื่อย ๆ ไม่ถึงกับน่าประทับใจ แต่ไม่แย่นะคะ อย่างน้อยก็มากพอที่จะทำให้เราคิดว่าจะให้โอกาสอ่านเล่มสองในชุดต่อ
July 14, 2014
I really liked Harper and Galen. And Landon, who's the hero of the next book. I also enjoyed Harper's pop culture references. (I think a lot of Mandy was coming out in her book and tv choices.)
The last 25% or so of the book was really exciting! There was a little lull in the middle, but Harper was getting bored too so I guess it makes sense.
I had to question Harper's and even Galen's investigative skills though. At one point, I thought it was obvious who was after her but they didn't even try to figure it out. And I couldn't understand how she could wait so long to look at the information she had and then not read it all.
I still really liked the book. It was exciting and sexy and kept me turning the page. I'll just try not to think too hard about why the characters didn't see all the clues that I did.
ARC from Netgalley
The last 25% or so of the book was really exciting! There was a little lull in the middle, but Harper was getting bored too so I guess it makes sense.
I had to question Harper's and even Galen's investigative skills though. At one point, I thought it was obvious who was after her but they didn't even try to figure it out. And I couldn't understand how she could wait so long to look at the information she had and then not read it all.
I still really liked the book. It was exciting and sexy and kept me turning the page. I'll just try not to think too hard about why the characters didn't see all the clues that I did.
ARC from Netgalley
October 13, 2014
Rating: 2.5 Stars
Not the biggest fan of this one. After Julie James's corporate romances, One Night More really doesn't compare. What's more, the plot deviates from the romance, which I normally enjoy but in this situation the romance needed a fair bit of work. Either than the never-ending sexual tension (which wasn't half as tense as it could have been or really even all that authentic) there wasn't much cementing the arc of this relationship. Maybe I just expected more from the promising synopsis? Either way, Baxter isn't for me.
Not the biggest fan of this one. After Julie James's corporate romances, One Night More really doesn't compare. What's more, the plot deviates from the romance, which I normally enjoy but in this situation the romance needed a fair bit of work. Either than the never-ending sexual tension (which wasn't half as tense as it could have been or really even all that authentic) there wasn't much cementing the arc of this relationship. Maybe I just expected more from the promising synopsis? Either way, Baxter isn't for me.
March 5, 2015
3.5-4 stars
This was a cute, Julie James-esque romantic suspense - albeit packing a bit more heat (as in heat with steam!) than a typical Julie James novel. Although I don't foresee reading this one again, I still enjoyed it and would definitely consider checking out Baxter's next novel in this series...
This was a cute, Julie James-esque romantic suspense - albeit packing a bit more heat (as in heat with steam!) than a typical Julie James novel. Although I don't foresee reading this one again, I still enjoyed it and would definitely consider checking out Baxter's next novel in this series...
August 22, 2014
**Received a copy from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.**
I don't know where to begin. All I can say was this story was amazing! Definitely a wonderful debut for Mandy Baxter! She has made a fan out of me. "One Night More" is the first book in her U.S. Marshals series and can be read as a stand-alone book. This story features reporter Harper Allen and U.S. Marshal Galen Kelly.
Harper and Galen met one year ago in a bar where Galen came to Harper's rescue. He kicked ass to put it mildly. He was out with his friends and saw a guy who wouldn't take no for an answer. Said guy was going to drug Harper's drink, so Galen sprung into action. When Harper approached her rescuer, she was in awe. She found him hot. He was witty. They had an instant connection. She did something she normally wouldn't do -- had a one night stand with a stranger. They agreed to keep it anonymous, but when a misunderstanding took place, she is left wondering what happened to her handsome rescuer.
Fast forward a year later. Galen has just come back from France and is now assigned to watch over Harper. She is a witness to Senator Mark Ellis' murder. They are both shocked to see one another. They never got over each other after all.
Unfortunately, the circumstances that brought them back together were not ideal. Galen and the other U.S. Marshals know she's innocent, but the FBI -- namely Agent Davis -- has her as a suspect despite her constantly telling him she did not commit the murder. Harper also unknowingly has something that the killer wants, and he wants her dead. But how can Galen protect Harper without compromising his job? How will they be able to keep their feelings for one another a secret?
"One Night More" had it all. It had suspense, romance, comedy, action, and drama. What I also loved were the witty conversations, the scenes between Galen and his friend, Landon, and the build-up to the end of the story itself. It's the type of story that left me on the edge of my seat, and I just couldn't put it down. Wonderful, wonderful debut! Definitely a must read for everyone!
I don't know where to begin. All I can say was this story was amazing! Definitely a wonderful debut for Mandy Baxter! She has made a fan out of me. "One Night More" is the first book in her U.S. Marshals series and can be read as a stand-alone book. This story features reporter Harper Allen and U.S. Marshal Galen Kelly.
Harper and Galen met one year ago in a bar where Galen came to Harper's rescue. He kicked ass to put it mildly. He was out with his friends and saw a guy who wouldn't take no for an answer. Said guy was going to drug Harper's drink, so Galen sprung into action. When Harper approached her rescuer, she was in awe. She found him hot. He was witty. They had an instant connection. She did something she normally wouldn't do -- had a one night stand with a stranger. They agreed to keep it anonymous, but when a misunderstanding took place, she is left wondering what happened to her handsome rescuer.
Fast forward a year later. Galen has just come back from France and is now assigned to watch over Harper. She is a witness to Senator Mark Ellis' murder. They are both shocked to see one another. They never got over each other after all.
Unfortunately, the circumstances that brought them back together were not ideal. Galen and the other U.S. Marshals know she's innocent, but the FBI -- namely Agent Davis -- has her as a suspect despite her constantly telling him she did not commit the murder. Harper also unknowingly has something that the killer wants, and he wants her dead. But how can Galen protect Harper without compromising his job? How will they be able to keep their feelings for one another a secret?
"One Night More" had it all. It had suspense, romance, comedy, action, and drama. What I also loved were the witty conversations, the scenes between Galen and his friend, Landon, and the build-up to the end of the story itself. It's the type of story that left me on the edge of my seat, and I just couldn't put it down. Wonderful, wonderful debut! Definitely a must read for everyone!
November 4, 2014
After looking up Mandy Baxter's page to write this review I was surprised to see this is her first published book. I'm really impressed with her writing and storytelling. She pulls you in and you're feeling everything they're feeling with very descriptive scenes. It also helped she wrote the story from both character's points of view to fill you in on their feelings and doubts. My initial impression was that Harper was your stereotypical I'm too beautiful and every man wants me. Nope, she's got a whole lot of nerd in her and she's very down to earth. Galen was a very human and every-man hero.
My only complaint was towards the end Harper puts herself and career over the safety of others and her own life. There are glimpses where she becomes the dreaded TSTL heroine (too stupid to live). I might have given her some leeway with one scene where she endangers everyone else's life to do what she wants, but there were several situations up until the end and I wanted to smack her and citizen arrest her for obstruction myself. The fact that someone as noble as Galen went along with it also surprised me. Seriously - someone else can go get your laptop and a change of clothes. They're coming to arrest you, but you have to finish the story and go to your office? Of course, this does help drive the drama and the story and I personally tend to lean more towards realism and not liking to suspend disbelief. None of this would keep me from recommending this book. In fact, I'm anxious for the 2nd book and what looks like another series about billionaires coming out this fall.
Although this is the first book of a series, it does have a conclusion. You are briefly introduced to Landon (One More Kiss - book 2), but not much information or back-story is given about him that will make you at a loss for the next book. I was given a copy of this book through NetGalley by the author/publisher for an honest review.
My only complaint was towards the end Harper puts herself and career over the safety of others and her own life. There are glimpses where she becomes the dreaded TSTL heroine (too stupid to live). I might have given her some leeway with one scene where she endangers everyone else's life to do what she wants, but there were several situations up until the end and I wanted to smack her and citizen arrest her for obstruction myself. The fact that someone as noble as Galen went along with it also surprised me. Seriously - someone else can go get your laptop and a change of clothes. They're coming to arrest you, but you have to finish the story and go to your office? Of course, this does help drive the drama and the story and I personally tend to lean more towards realism and not liking to suspend disbelief. None of this would keep me from recommending this book. In fact, I'm anxious for the 2nd book and what looks like another series about billionaires coming out this fall.
Although this is the first book of a series, it does have a conclusion. You are briefly introduced to Landon (One More Kiss - book 2), but not much information or back-story is given about him that will make you at a loss for the next book. I was given a copy of this book through NetGalley by the author/publisher for an honest review.
July 10, 2014
What a fun book to read and I loved Harper's sass, "first of all," Harper jumped in, "I have a name. It's not Miss Allen, and it sure as hell isn't 'the witness' I'm not a cup you guys can pass around from one location to the next. I have a job, responsibilities. I've already told Curt and I'll tell you Deputy Kelly. I'm not going anywhere." When she is pi**ed it's like watch out world, "why should it matter? I'm nothing but a job assignment to you. You don't see me as anything other than cargo that has to get to a destination without a dent. It obviously doesn't matter to you what I do or don't wear." And she's not afraid to stare after what she wants (you read that sentence correctly) "sorry." For the record, she totally wasn't sorry. "Just enjoying the view. But seriously, Galen, get your pants on and let's go." I can't wait for more of this series.
July 14, 2014
I would give this 4 1/2 stars! It's a great debut to what I think will be a great series. Galen & Harper were amazing together, they had fantastic chemistry, had great conversations and while the first half of this book is filled with sexual tension once Galen and Harper worked out their little misconception it got even better. I liked Harper a lot, despite her need to not be "dependent" irritating me occasionally she was spunky and fun and I love donuts too so that was cute. Galen was a yummy alpha protector and I enjoyed his relationship with his sister and I like Curt, his boss, and Landon his best friend. I am looking forward to Landon's story a lot!
This was a complimentary e-copy thanks to Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for a honest review.
This was a complimentary e-copy thanks to Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for a honest review.
July 11, 2014
Ever read one of those books where you want to punch the hero in the face because his sexy behind is not only totally swoon worthy but also totally stupid? Yeah? Well this is one of those books... I couldn't get enough of Galen but at the same time I constantly wanted to punch him for his stupid (yet sometimes smart) decisions!
Great book! I'm looking forward to reading more in the U.S. Marshals series!
Great book! I'm looking forward to reading more in the U.S. Marshals series!
September 10, 2014
Posted at Yummy Men & Kick Ass Chicks
One Night More is the first book in a new contemporary romantic suspense series by Mandy Baxter. The name may not be familiar but if you are a fan of urban fantasy, you’ve probably read her books before. Writing kick ass UF chicks, she uses the name Amanda Bonilla. But for writing kick ass contemporary chicks who are smart, sassy and go-getters, she uses the name Mandy Baxter.
One Night More is book one in Mandy’s US Marshals series. Now I’m not American so I can’t tell you really what a US Marshal does but from this book I gather he is a person trained to guard and protect. And poor Harper, after being in the wrong/scary place at the wrong/scary time, needs to be guarded and protected.
Galen and Mandy had one crazy hot night right before he leaves for a one year assignment in Paris. Thanks to a couple of misunderstandings, the night ended uncomfortably for both. But neither stopped thinking about the other. Mandy did a great job with Harper and Galen’s chemistry. You felt it immediately and you could tell how much they pined for each other even though both thought they really shouldn’t. I loved the scenes where they just sat and talked. Or even when they argued and quipped. The conversation was very easy and natural and for me, that is something I enjoy a lot in a contemporary romance story.
Harper is a reporter and that means, of course, that she will do what she can to get the truth for a story. She has a feeling that a certain politician that everyone trusts is hiding something and is determined to out him. She confronts him…and he gets shot while she is talking to him. Harper is now in danger and that’s where Galen comes back into the picture. I like reporters in books on a whole but I find there is always one or two times in a story where I shake my head because they jump into a stupid situation just to help themselves along. Harper does have a small moment or two in this book where I thought “should you really be doing that?” but they weren’t so annoying and I never wanted to smack her. I was glad for that because I did like her quite a bit.
I also liked Galen. The little misunderstanding that drove Galen to be a pissered at Harper for a year and making him leave her bed sooner than he had originally hoped was a little odd for me – I assume that a man like him would confront someone rather than escape due to assumptions – but it did make their reunion a little more exciting so I just went with it. Also, Galen is a man so his ego came into play, I’m sure. But overall, I liked him. Galen was not too macho and he worked well with Harper.
The story was quite entertaining. Lots of good questions come up, as it should be in a romantic suspense story, and answers slowly trickle in. Some answers add new questions while some reveal some important details. This was romantic suspense done right. It’s a politically based mystery/who done it and I was both surprised and not surprised by who the ultimate villain was. It fit the story.
We were quickly introduced to the hero of the next book in the series, One Kiss More (releasing March 2015). Landon seems like the type of hero I really like in my contemporary romance books: yummy and smart with a great sense of humor. I can’t wait to read his book.
While reading this book, I kept thinking to myself “this feels like a Julie James book” and that is a huge compliment. I love Julie’s voice and style and Mandy’s style is very similar. The flow is excellent, the story is well put together and the characters are very well developed. If this first installment is any indication, One Night More is the start of a fantastic contemporary romance series. Mandy Baxter is an author to watch.
One Night More is the first book in a new contemporary romantic suspense series by Mandy Baxter. The name may not be familiar but if you are a fan of urban fantasy, you’ve probably read her books before. Writing kick ass UF chicks, she uses the name Amanda Bonilla. But for writing kick ass contemporary chicks who are smart, sassy and go-getters, she uses the name Mandy Baxter.
One Night More is book one in Mandy’s US Marshals series. Now I’m not American so I can’t tell you really what a US Marshal does but from this book I gather he is a person trained to guard and protect. And poor Harper, after being in the wrong/scary place at the wrong/scary time, needs to be guarded and protected.
Galen and Mandy had one crazy hot night right before he leaves for a one year assignment in Paris. Thanks to a couple of misunderstandings, the night ended uncomfortably for both. But neither stopped thinking about the other. Mandy did a great job with Harper and Galen’s chemistry. You felt it immediately and you could tell how much they pined for each other even though both thought they really shouldn’t. I loved the scenes where they just sat and talked. Or even when they argued and quipped. The conversation was very easy and natural and for me, that is something I enjoy a lot in a contemporary romance story.
Harper is a reporter and that means, of course, that she will do what she can to get the truth for a story. She has a feeling that a certain politician that everyone trusts is hiding something and is determined to out him. She confronts him…and he gets shot while she is talking to him. Harper is now in danger and that’s where Galen comes back into the picture. I like reporters in books on a whole but I find there is always one or two times in a story where I shake my head because they jump into a stupid situation just to help themselves along. Harper does have a small moment or two in this book where I thought “should you really be doing that?” but they weren’t so annoying and I never wanted to smack her. I was glad for that because I did like her quite a bit.
I also liked Galen. The little misunderstanding that drove Galen to be a pissered at Harper for a year and making him leave her bed sooner than he had originally hoped was a little odd for me – I assume that a man like him would confront someone rather than escape due to assumptions – but it did make their reunion a little more exciting so I just went with it. Also, Galen is a man so his ego came into play, I’m sure. But overall, I liked him. Galen was not too macho and he worked well with Harper.
The story was quite entertaining. Lots of good questions come up, as it should be in a romantic suspense story, and answers slowly trickle in. Some answers add new questions while some reveal some important details. This was romantic suspense done right. It’s a politically based mystery/who done it and I was both surprised and not surprised by who the ultimate villain was. It fit the story.
We were quickly introduced to the hero of the next book in the series, One Kiss More (releasing March 2015). Landon seems like the type of hero I really like in my contemporary romance books: yummy and smart with a great sense of humor. I can’t wait to read his book.
While reading this book, I kept thinking to myself “this feels like a Julie James book” and that is a huge compliment. I love Julie’s voice and style and Mandy’s style is very similar. The flow is excellent, the story is well put together and the characters are very well developed. If this first installment is any indication, One Night More is the start of a fantastic contemporary romance series. Mandy Baxter is an author to watch.
October 9, 2015
After so many books about FBI agents and SEAL operatives, it's time the U.S. Marshal Service got its day in the spotlight. With Ms. Baxter's debut novel ONE NIGHT MORE, you'll find a sexy new breed of men to lust over!
After completing the elite Special Operations Group program for the U.S. Marshal Service, Galen Kelly has been given a plum assignment as the head of personal security for the U.S. Ambassador to France. To celebrate, Galen is in the midst of a night out when he inadvertently happens upon a roofie in progress, promptly stopping the offender and earning the appreciation of the sexy Harper Allen. As the two get to talking, they're both feeling something sizzling between them, and without exchanging names, they end up tearing up the sheets all night together. The morning after, just as Galen is prepared to delay his flight and get to know the woman in bed better, he happens across text messages on her phone that lead him to believe she's already a taken woman. Galen flees Harper's house, hurting both of them in the process.
A year later, after his stint in France is over and Galen returns home, he's assigned protective detail to a woman who witnessed the murder of a senator…and she just happens to be none other than the woman he's dreamt about for the last year, Harper Allen. Though he's replayed every detail in his head a thousand times, if he ‘fesses up to knowing the feisty woman then someone else would be in charge of her safety, and damn if Galen will let that happen! Harper's heartbroken that Galen doesn't remember their night together, but with a killer after her, she'll need all her focus to be on staying safe…and figuring out who wanted the senator dead. Galen will do just about anything for one night more with Harper, but will his feelings for her put her in danger?
ONE NIGHT MORE is the debut book from Ms. Baxter and the first in her upcoming romantic suspense U.S. Marshals series. The instantaneous chemistry between Harper and Galen was explosive, you could literally feel the connection between them jumping off the pages. While the misunderstanding in the beginning was overdramatized a bit, I appreciated that Ms. Baxter kept with that thread and made Galen actually leave. Absence makes the heart grow fonder and all that, so their year-long separation was perfect for the plot of this story. Galen pretending not to know Harper was also excellent, as was her stunned reaction. His inner monologue was crazy sweet detailing how much he cared for her (though at times it bordered on obsessive).
I really appreciated that Galen wasn't some slutty manwhore government agent like so many male MC's are. He truly felt a connection with Harper and even though he was in an exotic country and in a position to sleep with lots of women, he just couldn't bring himself to do it since they weren't Harper. The total character development of him and Harper both was terrific, and Harper's slight geekiness was completely endearing to me. Also awesome was the suspense element of this book. I liked that the underlying thread of danger was present in almost every page of ONE NIGHT MORE. Those things, along with the totally erotic sex scenes and excellent storyline, made me completely hooked on this book, and I cannot wait to read more from this new and very talented author!
After completing the elite Special Operations Group program for the U.S. Marshal Service, Galen Kelly has been given a plum assignment as the head of personal security for the U.S. Ambassador to France. To celebrate, Galen is in the midst of a night out when he inadvertently happens upon a roofie in progress, promptly stopping the offender and earning the appreciation of the sexy Harper Allen. As the two get to talking, they're both feeling something sizzling between them, and without exchanging names, they end up tearing up the sheets all night together. The morning after, just as Galen is prepared to delay his flight and get to know the woman in bed better, he happens across text messages on her phone that lead him to believe she's already a taken woman. Galen flees Harper's house, hurting both of them in the process.
A year later, after his stint in France is over and Galen returns home, he's assigned protective detail to a woman who witnessed the murder of a senator…and she just happens to be none other than the woman he's dreamt about for the last year, Harper Allen. Though he's replayed every detail in his head a thousand times, if he ‘fesses up to knowing the feisty woman then someone else would be in charge of her safety, and damn if Galen will let that happen! Harper's heartbroken that Galen doesn't remember their night together, but with a killer after her, she'll need all her focus to be on staying safe…and figuring out who wanted the senator dead. Galen will do just about anything for one night more with Harper, but will his feelings for her put her in danger?
ONE NIGHT MORE is the debut book from Ms. Baxter and the first in her upcoming romantic suspense U.S. Marshals series. The instantaneous chemistry between Harper and Galen was explosive, you could literally feel the connection between them jumping off the pages. While the misunderstanding in the beginning was overdramatized a bit, I appreciated that Ms. Baxter kept with that thread and made Galen actually leave. Absence makes the heart grow fonder and all that, so their year-long separation was perfect for the plot of this story. Galen pretending not to know Harper was also excellent, as was her stunned reaction. His inner monologue was crazy sweet detailing how much he cared for her (though at times it bordered on obsessive).
I really appreciated that Galen wasn't some slutty manwhore government agent like so many male MC's are. He truly felt a connection with Harper and even though he was in an exotic country and in a position to sleep with lots of women, he just couldn't bring himself to do it since they weren't Harper. The total character development of him and Harper both was terrific, and Harper's slight geekiness was completely endearing to me. Also awesome was the suspense element of this book. I liked that the underlying thread of danger was present in almost every page of ONE NIGHT MORE. Those things, along with the totally erotic sex scenes and excellent storyline, made me completely hooked on this book, and I cannot wait to read more from this new and very talented author!
August 21, 2014
My Rating: B+ Liked It A Lot
Originally posted at That's What I'm Talking About
Review copy provided by NetGalley
Galen Kelly is one of the top recruits for the U.S. Marshals Service's elite Special Operations Group (SOG). The night before he is scheduled to depart for France for a year, he and his best friend (and fellow Marshal) Landon go out to celebrate. Little did he know that taking down a creepy stalker at the bar, he’d end up going home with Harper.
Harper Allen is a recent journalism graduate of the University of Portland. When she feels an instant connection to the mysterious stranger who saves her, she takes a risk and brings him home. Sharing only the truth but withholding names, the pair spend an amazing night together, until Galen sneaks out and disappears from her life. That is until the pair reunite a year later when Harper finds her self under the protection of the U.S. Marshals Service.
One More Night kicks off Mandy Baxter’s new romantic suspense series with a bang. The book has an excellent balance of world building, mystery and intrigue, and steamy romance. I was immediately drawn into Harper and Galen’s strong attraction, and their initial hookup was knock-your-socks off hot! My biggest complaint - it took way too long for the follow-up encounter!
Harper and Galen are both strong characters, demanding and stubborn. Although they do butt heads from time to time, their strong attraction overcomes most differences. However, the fact that Galen shares a history with Harper must remain a secret from his boss, as well as from Harper, or Galen will be removed from his post. Internally, he struggles between wanting to be with Harper and wanting to protect her - which is what wins out and why he keeps up his charade. For a very long time. By the midway point of the book, I was frustrated, and while I understood and appreciated the need for keeping his silence, I wanted more. Finally, with nearly two-thirds of the book finished, the pair comes clean and the romantic elements kicked up several notches.
The action-filled suspense storyline is entertaining, although I felt some of the situations and scenarios were a bit unrealistic. Harper is witness to the murder of a major political figure and potentially in possession of key evidence. The need to keep her safe seems to take back seat at times to Galen’s desire and Harper’s indignant behavior. Putting the few issues I had aside, I liked the primary plot and felt the author created a solid storyline.
Overall, I enjoyed One Night More. The story is exciting at times and very sexy at others. Although I feel there are a few unrealistic situations, it is an enjoyable romance with an intriguing suspense storyline. The supporting characters add a lot to the world, including some well-timed humorous moments. Once the romantic storyline picked up, I found the book difficult to put down, and I look forward to the next story in the U.S. Marshals series.
Originally posted at That's What I'm Talking About
Review copy provided by NetGalley
Galen Kelly is one of the top recruits for the U.S. Marshals Service's elite Special Operations Group (SOG). The night before he is scheduled to depart for France for a year, he and his best friend (and fellow Marshal) Landon go out to celebrate. Little did he know that taking down a creepy stalker at the bar, he’d end up going home with Harper.
Harper Allen is a recent journalism graduate of the University of Portland. When she feels an instant connection to the mysterious stranger who saves her, she takes a risk and brings him home. Sharing only the truth but withholding names, the pair spend an amazing night together, until Galen sneaks out and disappears from her life. That is until the pair reunite a year later when Harper finds her self under the protection of the U.S. Marshals Service.
One More Night kicks off Mandy Baxter’s new romantic suspense series with a bang. The book has an excellent balance of world building, mystery and intrigue, and steamy romance. I was immediately drawn into Harper and Galen’s strong attraction, and their initial hookup was knock-your-socks off hot! My biggest complaint - it took way too long for the follow-up encounter!
Harper and Galen are both strong characters, demanding and stubborn. Although they do butt heads from time to time, their strong attraction overcomes most differences. However, the fact that Galen shares a history with Harper must remain a secret from his boss, as well as from Harper, or Galen will be removed from his post. Internally, he struggles between wanting to be with Harper and wanting to protect her - which is what wins out and why he keeps up his charade. For a very long time. By the midway point of the book, I was frustrated, and while I understood and appreciated the need for keeping his silence, I wanted more. Finally, with nearly two-thirds of the book finished, the pair comes clean and the romantic elements kicked up several notches.
The action-filled suspense storyline is entertaining, although I felt some of the situations and scenarios were a bit unrealistic. Harper is witness to the murder of a major political figure and potentially in possession of key evidence. The need to keep her safe seems to take back seat at times to Galen’s desire and Harper’s indignant behavior. Putting the few issues I had aside, I liked the primary plot and felt the author created a solid storyline.
Overall, I enjoyed One Night More. The story is exciting at times and very sexy at others. Although I feel there are a few unrealistic situations, it is an enjoyable romance with an intriguing suspense storyline. The supporting characters add a lot to the world, including some well-timed humorous moments. Once the romantic storyline picked up, I found the book difficult to put down, and I look forward to the next story in the U.S. Marshals series.
December 8, 2014
My Review:
Confession time...I rarely just walk into a bookstore and buy books anymore without knowing the author or based upon a recommendation from someone else. This book was the exception to that. It caught my eye on the bookshelf and I bought it without knowing anything more than what it said on the back cover. It was a risk definitely worth taking because I've just discovered a new author and series to go on my must-buy list.
Harper is not a one-night stand kind of girl, but when super-sexy Galen saves her from being drugged she makes an exception to that rule and takes him back to her place. Neither one expects anything more so agree to be completely honest with one another, but with one rule...no names. This is for one night...which Galen is re-thinking until Harper receives a text from a man who sounds like her boyfriend...so he leaves abruptly without another word. But neither one of them expects the sex to be so incredibly good that it haunts them both with what could have been...until they meet again when Galen is put in charge of Harper's security when she witnesses a murder and is being targeted.
I'm a sucker for a good romantic suspense featuring a hot, alpha protector and Galen is a great example of why I love this style of book. Although he feels betrayed by what happened a year ago, he knows that if he confesses his night with Harper that he won't be able to protect her...something he can't accept and that made me fall in love with him. In his defense, when the whole situation occurs, he's completely jet-lagged since he just returned from a year-long assignment in France. But he's committed to not letting Harper know that he absolutely remembers that night.
Harper has no idea why Galen took off like he did. She thought the entire night was incredible and is incredibly hurt that he doesn't even remember her. Did she misread things so poorly? I felt for her. She's been thrown into this horrible situation and dealing with her conflicted feelings about Galen certainly doesn't help her any. The book worked for me just because Galen and Harper are thrown into very close quarters under very stressful circumstances. It requires them to spend time with one another and get to know each other without the sexual complication (at least at first...hehe). Their text exchanges at night were one of my favorite things and I liked how they really seemed to develop a good friendship despite that first night of sex.
I loved this book and can't wait to read book #2 because I loved the scenes with Landon in them. I think this is going to be a great series and am so happy that I purchased this spur-of-the-moment book. It was a good risk that definitely paid off to be a great read!!
Confession time...I rarely just walk into a bookstore and buy books anymore without knowing the author or based upon a recommendation from someone else. This book was the exception to that. It caught my eye on the bookshelf and I bought it without knowing anything more than what it said on the back cover. It was a risk definitely worth taking because I've just discovered a new author and series to go on my must-buy list.
Harper is not a one-night stand kind of girl, but when super-sexy Galen saves her from being drugged she makes an exception to that rule and takes him back to her place. Neither one expects anything more so agree to be completely honest with one another, but with one rule...no names. This is for one night...which Galen is re-thinking until Harper receives a text from a man who sounds like her boyfriend...so he leaves abruptly without another word. But neither one of them expects the sex to be so incredibly good that it haunts them both with what could have been...until they meet again when Galen is put in charge of Harper's security when she witnesses a murder and is being targeted.
I'm a sucker for a good romantic suspense featuring a hot, alpha protector and Galen is a great example of why I love this style of book. Although he feels betrayed by what happened a year ago, he knows that if he confesses his night with Harper that he won't be able to protect her...something he can't accept and that made me fall in love with him. In his defense, when the whole situation occurs, he's completely jet-lagged since he just returned from a year-long assignment in France. But he's committed to not letting Harper know that he absolutely remembers that night.
Harper has no idea why Galen took off like he did. She thought the entire night was incredible and is incredibly hurt that he doesn't even remember her. Did she misread things so poorly? I felt for her. She's been thrown into this horrible situation and dealing with her conflicted feelings about Galen certainly doesn't help her any. The book worked for me just because Galen and Harper are thrown into very close quarters under very stressful circumstances. It requires them to spend time with one another and get to know each other without the sexual complication (at least at first...hehe). Their text exchanges at night were one of my favorite things and I liked how they really seemed to develop a good friendship despite that first night of sex.
I loved this book and can't wait to read book #2 because I loved the scenes with Landon in them. I think this is going to be a great series and am so happy that I purchased this spur-of-the-moment book. It was a good risk that definitely paid off to be a great read!!
January 5, 2015
I have a hard time getting into this genre of book, I think, and that's probably detrimental to my reviews (Kay Hooper's aside, because those really are paranormal, in my mind).
While the story was cute and engaging, I didn't find them nearly as enjoyable as the Julie James series I read last year (which, to my surprise, I looooooooved).
Almost from the get-go, I wanted to punch the main character. Heavens, she was annoying. I mean, I am all for a stubborn, alpha law-enforcement he-man type (and one who shares my view on superheroes :p), but do we always HAVE to pair them with such nitwits? Harper, I felt, was just dull. Dull and annoying. It's possible to have an assertive woman without taking her pigheadedness to a dangerously idiotic (literally, dangerous in the sense that she HAD A PROTECTIVE GOVERNMENT DETAIL AND KEPT RUNNING OFF... FOR DONUTS) level. And it's possible to have a girly, feminine woman without having her have crying, screechy temper tantrums and flaking out all time (literally, again; she shot a gun... at a wall? the floor? the air? something stupid... and then dropped it in shock. Gosh gee golly, guns make a loud noise when you use 'em and kick back a bit.. who knew? What. The. Hell?).
So anyway, not a great start to the series, but I'll probably give the next one a go when it's released...
While the story was cute and engaging, I didn't find them nearly as enjoyable as the Julie James series I read last year (which, to my surprise, I looooooooved).
Almost from the get-go, I wanted to punch the main character. Heavens, she was annoying. I mean, I am all for a stubborn, alpha law-enforcement he-man type (and one who shares my view on superheroes :p), but do we always HAVE to pair them with such nitwits? Harper, I felt, was just dull. Dull and annoying. It's possible to have an assertive woman without taking her pigheadedness to a dangerously idiotic (literally, dangerous in the sense that she HAD A PROTECTIVE GOVERNMENT DETAIL AND KEPT RUNNING OFF... FOR DONUTS) level. And it's possible to have a girly, feminine woman without having her have crying, screechy temper tantrums and flaking out all time (literally, again; she shot a gun... at a wall? the floor? the air? something stupid... and then dropped it in shock. Gosh gee golly, guns make a loud noise when you use 'em and kick back a bit.. who knew? What. The. Hell?).
So anyway, not a great start to the series, but I'll probably give the next one a go when it's released...
November 6, 2014
I'd give this book a higher rating if not for an annoying and idiotic heroine (for the record, sneaking out, ditching your protective detail, withholding information isn't 'feisty' or 'determined', but rather the definition of moronic) who can't seem to step back from a line called "being too stupid to live". Many of her actions - which nearly made me bite my tongue off - are selfish, reckless and childish and typically, only realised too late.
I wonder if authors, in their eagerness to portray a strong, independent female, unknowingly but ironically slip them into a neat, cliched category where they're more disliked than admired.
It isn't going to make me give up on this series, but I'm certainly hoping that the second book wouldn't be like this.
May 19, 2015
This book had me hooked from the opening hotter than hell one night stand to the last holding my breath standoff between hero, heroine, and villain. This book has everything that I love and expect with this genre. Murder, attempted murder, secrets, explosive chemistry, secret hookups, witty banter and likable secondary characters who I'm sure we will be reading about in future books and I cannot wait!
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