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Shattered Witness
A brutal assault leaves high-powered CEO Shaw Cassidy’s memory shattered. Her isolated estate on High Lake Mountain should be her haven, but nightmares and eerie shadows threaten her sanity. A shot in the night sends her running from the creaking Victorian into the arms of a stranger she instinctively trusts. But is he her hero, or her downfall?
Time is running out for special agent Cole Marinos. His undercover assignment: to protect his childhood sweetheart—the lost love who broke his heart. His reality: Shaw is suspected of treason. To uncover the top-secret government leak that will exonerate her, he must trigger her memories of her stalker…and of Cole’s long-ago betrayal.
The evil tracking Shaw closes in, each attack more cruel and personal than the last. And each is designed to implicate Cole. With Shaw’s memory returning and her life on the line, is she trusting a man she once promised to love forever? Or is Cole the monster who wants her dead?
Revised edition: Previously published as Her Forgotten Betrayal, this edition of Shattered Witness includes editorial revisions.
Time is running out for special agent Cole Marinos. His undercover assignment: to protect his childhood sweetheart—the lost love who broke his heart. His reality: Shaw is suspected of treason. To uncover the top-secret government leak that will exonerate her, he must trigger her memories of her stalker…and of Cole’s long-ago betrayal.
The evil tracking Shaw closes in, each attack more cruel and personal than the last. And each is designed to implicate Cole. With Shaw’s memory returning and her life on the line, is she trusting a man she once promised to love forever? Or is Cole the monster who wants her dead?
Revised edition: Previously published as Her Forgotten Betrayal, this edition of Shattered Witness includes editorial revisions.
209 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 1, 2012
170 people are currently reading
304 people want to read
About the author
Anna DeStefano
42 books273 followersAnna DeStefano brings to life heart-warming, emotion-packed stories about community, family and second chances. Her award-winning, nationally bestselling small town romances spotlight family, friendships and the forgiveness that nurtures her characters’ dreams…as they explore the issues all contemporary families face.
Anna’s imagination is forever inspired by our ability to claim an unlimited and exciting future—by honestly confronting and bravely overcoming the setbacks of the past.
She’s the author of more than twenty-seven books, including the Echoes of the Heart and the Mimosa Lane novels that are set in Chandlerville, Georgia, and her Atlanta Heroes series.
Look for her other titles featuring the reader-favorite Dixon family: Here in My Heart, Let me Love You Again, His Darling Bride, and Book 3 of the Seasons of the Heart series, Love on Mimosa Lane.
Born in Charleston, South Carolina, Anna’s lived in the South her entire life. Her background as a care provider and adult educator in the world of crisis and grief recovery lends itself to the deeper psychological themes of every story she writes.
A wife and mother, she currently writes in a charming northeast suburb of Atlanta, Georgia, not all that different from her characters’ beloved Chandlerville.
She is also a workshop, masterclass and keynote speaker, a writing coach, and a freelance editor.
Get to know Anna at annawrites.com/blog and the Anna DeStefano: Author page on Facebook, where she shares her inspirations, her challenges, a healthy dose of honest optimism, and tidbits about upcoming projects.
Anna’s imagination is forever inspired by our ability to claim an unlimited and exciting future—by honestly confronting and bravely overcoming the setbacks of the past.
She’s the author of more than twenty-seven books, including the Echoes of the Heart and the Mimosa Lane novels that are set in Chandlerville, Georgia, and her Atlanta Heroes series.
Look for her other titles featuring the reader-favorite Dixon family: Here in My Heart, Let me Love You Again, His Darling Bride, and Book 3 of the Seasons of the Heart series, Love on Mimosa Lane.
Born in Charleston, South Carolina, Anna’s lived in the South her entire life. Her background as a care provider and adult educator in the world of crisis and grief recovery lends itself to the deeper psychological themes of every story she writes.
A wife and mother, she currently writes in a charming northeast suburb of Atlanta, Georgia, not all that different from her characters’ beloved Chandlerville.
She is also a workshop, masterclass and keynote speaker, a writing coach, and a freelance editor.
Get to know Anna at annawrites.com/blog and the Anna DeStefano: Author page on Facebook, where she shares her inspirations, her challenges, a healthy dose of honest optimism, and tidbits about upcoming projects.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
January 3, 2016
3.5 Stars
“I’ve missed you. I never should have left, no matter what he said. How could I have left you?”
These are the kind of words I want to read with any second chance romance. But Shattered Witness was more than a second chance at love, it was a suspenseful mystery full of danger and excitement.
Heiress and CEO Shaw Cassidy is on the mend after a brutal attack left her without any memory. To help in her recuperation and hopefully to gain back her memory, she’s holed up at her family’s mansion on High Lake Mountain. Unfortunately, nightmares of her attack and strange occurrences have her in a state of panic, and Shaw doesn’t know if she’s being watched and tormented or if she’s losing her mind. When Cole Marinos shows up and claims they were childhood friends, Shaw welcomes his help at trying to find out what or who is behind the strange happenings. Shaw feels inexplicably drawn to Cole, and her gut is telling her she can trust him. Being around Cole finally starts to shake some of her memories loose and helps clear the fog she’s been in for weeks.
As an FBI agent, Cole was immediately on alert when Shaw’s name came up as a suspect for espionage and treason for leaking out secrets to the highest bidder. He doesn’t believe that Shaw is capable of such treachery and even though their teenage love ended badly, he’s pulled every string so that he can guard Shaw and find her attacker.
Despite the hurt and the years they’d lost, how could he not safeguard the only woman he ever loved?
Shaw and Cole were hopelessly in love as teenagers, but tragedy and circumstance led to them parting with both devastated. Both never moved on and never forgot their first love. Well, not until Shaw’s amnesia, but even lacking her memories, she feels powerfully drawn to Cole.
“You feel so real.” She kissed his cheek, his closed eyes, the sinful cleft in his chin. “Have you always felt this good, Cole? I swear I can remember it. Us. I can remember the fire we had.”
Shaw’s attack gives these two a second chance at love in amidst all the danger surrounding them. I enjoyed discovering what could’ve separated Cole and Shaw when it was obvious they still had intense feelings for each other. Shattered Witness was a fast paced, suspenseful mystery, and a satisfying second chance romance.
A copy was kindly provided by Montlake Romance via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
“I’ve missed you. I never should have left, no matter what he said. How could I have left you?”
These are the kind of words I want to read with any second chance romance. But Shattered Witness was more than a second chance at love, it was a suspenseful mystery full of danger and excitement.
Heiress and CEO Shaw Cassidy is on the mend after a brutal attack left her without any memory. To help in her recuperation and hopefully to gain back her memory, she’s holed up at her family’s mansion on High Lake Mountain. Unfortunately, nightmares of her attack and strange occurrences have her in a state of panic, and Shaw doesn’t know if she’s being watched and tormented or if she’s losing her mind. When Cole Marinos shows up and claims they were childhood friends, Shaw welcomes his help at trying to find out what or who is behind the strange happenings. Shaw feels inexplicably drawn to Cole, and her gut is telling her she can trust him. Being around Cole finally starts to shake some of her memories loose and helps clear the fog she’s been in for weeks.
As an FBI agent, Cole was immediately on alert when Shaw’s name came up as a suspect for espionage and treason for leaking out secrets to the highest bidder. He doesn’t believe that Shaw is capable of such treachery and even though their teenage love ended badly, he’s pulled every string so that he can guard Shaw and find her attacker.
Despite the hurt and the years they’d lost, how could he not safeguard the only woman he ever loved?
Shaw and Cole were hopelessly in love as teenagers, but tragedy and circumstance led to them parting with both devastated. Both never moved on and never forgot their first love. Well, not until Shaw’s amnesia, but even lacking her memories, she feels powerfully drawn to Cole.
“You feel so real.” She kissed his cheek, his closed eyes, the sinful cleft in his chin. “Have you always felt this good, Cole? I swear I can remember it. Us. I can remember the fire we had.”
Shaw’s attack gives these two a second chance at love in amidst all the danger surrounding them. I enjoyed discovering what could’ve separated Cole and Shaw when it was obvious they still had intense feelings for each other. Shattered Witness was a fast paced, suspenseful mystery, and a satisfying second chance romance.
A copy was kindly provided by Montlake Romance via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
December 10, 2014
3.5 Stars
ARC generously provided by publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
A brutal assault leaves high-powered CEO Shaw Cassidy’s memory shattered. Her isolated estate on High Lake Mountain should be her haven, but nightmares and eerie shadows threaten her sanity. A shot in the night sends her running from the creaking Victorian into the arms of a stranger she instinctively trusts. But is he her hero, or her downfall?
Time is running out for special agent Cole Marinos. His undercover assignment: to protect his childhood sweetheart—the lost love who broke his heart. His reality: Shaw is suspected of treason. To uncover the top-secret government leak that will exonerate her, he must trigger her memories of her stalker…and of Cole’s long-ago betrayal.
The evil tracking Shaw closes in, each attack more cruel and personal than the last. And each is designed to implicate Cole. With Shaw’s memory returning and her life on the line, is she trusting a man she once promised to love forever? Or is Cole the monster who wants her dead?
This was an enjoyable read however it is pretty easy to guess early on who the mystery bad guy is. Still, I enjoyed the suspense of waiting to see what he would do next. Shaw is suppose to be this strong woman but she is pretty weak in most of the book. Of course this could be due to the amenisa and her attack so I will give her a pass on that. Cole and Shaw share a pass where their parting lays blame on both of them. Now they must decide weather they fight for each other while fighting to protect Shaw or leave the past in the past.
ARC generously provided by publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
A brutal assault leaves high-powered CEO Shaw Cassidy’s memory shattered. Her isolated estate on High Lake Mountain should be her haven, but nightmares and eerie shadows threaten her sanity. A shot in the night sends her running from the creaking Victorian into the arms of a stranger she instinctively trusts. But is he her hero, or her downfall?
Time is running out for special agent Cole Marinos. His undercover assignment: to protect his childhood sweetheart—the lost love who broke his heart. His reality: Shaw is suspected of treason. To uncover the top-secret government leak that will exonerate her, he must trigger her memories of her stalker…and of Cole’s long-ago betrayal.
The evil tracking Shaw closes in, each attack more cruel and personal than the last. And each is designed to implicate Cole. With Shaw’s memory returning and her life on the line, is she trusting a man she once promised to love forever? Or is Cole the monster who wants her dead?
This was an enjoyable read however it is pretty easy to guess early on who the mystery bad guy is. Still, I enjoyed the suspense of waiting to see what he would do next. Shaw is suppose to be this strong woman but she is pretty weak in most of the book. Of course this could be due to the amenisa and her attack so I will give her a pass on that. Cole and Shaw share a pass where their parting lays blame on both of them. Now they must decide weather they fight for each other while fighting to protect Shaw or leave the past in the past.
July 3, 2012
I am so excited to be a part of The Dead Sexy Tour from Entangled. I have said this before but I will say it again Entangled has some GREAT authors on this tour and the books are quick reads that leave you breathless and wanting more. Who can resist a man in uniform? Her Forgotten Betrayal starts off with Shaw recovering from a shooting in a remote place. She has lost her memories and she has been ordered to lay low until they find out who did this to her. Then enters Cole the gorgeous FBI agent who must help Shaw remember things in order to find the killer. The only snag is Cole and Shaw have a past that she can't remember. Good maybe but who knows.
Having Amnesia stinks for Shaw because she is falling hard for Mr FBI. As time goes on and Cole and Shaw uncover the mystery behind the person trying to kill her things start to get weird because Shaw is supposed to be in a remote place where no one can get to her but yet things happen. As Cole starts to put two and two together to catch the killer he realizes the person is someone closer to home that Shaw thinks. What will Cole do to keep Shaw safe? Will their romance rekindle again or will it fade out?
Come along for a romance ride and a suspense that will leave you on the edge of the seat wanting more! Entangled you have the lock down on this summers sexy reads! For more sexy reads click on the link to be taken to Entangled home http://www.entangledpublishing.com/ca...
Having Amnesia stinks for Shaw because she is falling hard for Mr FBI. As time goes on and Cole and Shaw uncover the mystery behind the person trying to kill her things start to get weird because Shaw is supposed to be in a remote place where no one can get to her but yet things happen. As Cole starts to put two and two together to catch the killer he realizes the person is someone closer to home that Shaw thinks. What will Cole do to keep Shaw safe? Will their romance rekindle again or will it fade out?
Come along for a romance ride and a suspense that will leave you on the edge of the seat wanting more! Entangled you have the lock down on this summers sexy reads! For more sexy reads click on the link to be taken to Entangled home http://www.entangledpublishing.com/ca...
November 6, 2014
This is the first book I have read by DeStefano and I have to say I have mixed feelings about the book. First of all, I loved the premise of the book with the heroine not only having amnesia but also that she was both the suspect and the victim. Plus the villain that was actually successful in his tormenting because of the way the authorities were treating Shaw as the criminal instead of as the victim. Even though I was able to determine the identity of the villain very early on in the book, it was surprising how long it took both Shaw and Cole to figure it out. In fact they never figured out the identity until they saw the person aiming a gun at them. However, my biggest objection to the book was that I felt at times the heroine was just too weak. Granted that could have been due to the effects of the amnesia but I'm not sure. At one point, even Shaw says to Cole "I fainted again didn't I?" For such a supposed strong women, I thought she was too weak at times. Overall, though I did enjoy the book and it was a definite page turner.
November 8, 2014
Previously published under the name of Her Forgotten Betrayal, Shattered Witness by Anna DeStefano is a standalone romantic suspense of the contemporary genre. Shaw Cassidy, CEO of Cassidy Global Research wakes up at the hospital, suffering from amnesia after a terrible assault on her at her office premises. Three weeks later, Shaw finds herself living atop High Lake Mountain, trying to summon her elusive memories through rest and recuperation.
FBI Special Agent Cole Marinos insinuates himself into the investigation surrounding Shaw Cassidy for one reason. Shaw had been the only woman he had ever loved, her betrayal being the reason that had sent him away from her life 15 years back. While the whole investigation centers around the fact that the agency thinks Shaw has been selling groundbreaking research to enemies of the US like Iran, Cole believes in Shaw’s innocence. With her memory in tatters and the whole investigation riding on the return of her memory, Cole finds himself going above and beyond the call of his duty when he finds himself protecting Shaw once again, a role he swore to himself that he would never again partake in.
From the moment the presence of Cole penetrates through the fog of sheer terror that surrounds Shaw, her trust in him is an inexplicable one. Her need to move close to him one that embarrasses her on so many levels, making her think that the lonely existence that she had lived up till then had made her that desperate for affection. However, when her memories start rolling back in, Shaw realizes that there is more to Cole than meets the eye, their shared past one which makes her realize just how much Cole had sacrificed for her years back. Racing against a ticking clock and a villain who knows far too well what Cole and Shaw are up to, Cole finds himself taking the risk of losing the woman he loves more than his own life all over again by trying to clear up Shaw’s name and getting to the bottom of who it is that is toying with the both of them.
Shattered Witness is a well written novel. Anne DeStefano has a writing style that draws you in. The one thing that really stood out for me was the villain in the story. Surprising? I know. Though the villain is pretty easy to figure out for the reader, the villain would have won if not for Cole’s intervention. The plan all along had been to discredit and let Shaw take the fall or perhaps even send her to the loony bin. With years of meticulous planning, it would have been achieved had not Cole come riding to Shaw’s rescue. I like a good villain in a suspense novel and I got that in Shattered Witness.
Though Shaw and Cole are well created characters, I found myself on the side of feeling an intense dislike for Shaw. Though it did mellow a bit towards the very end of the story, I found Shaw to be a bit too self-involved perhaps? I could relate to her not being able to be there for Cole the one time he had needed her, which had been the reason why he had walked away all those years back. But from the moment Cole enters her life once again, and though he lies to her about him being an agent of the government which is something he had to do given her fragile frame of mind, Cole is nothing but sensitive to her wants and need for protection. His actions spoke louder than words. But the minute Shaw found out, the only thing she could find to do was lay the blame of them not working out this time around because of Cole and his deception. Ah!
Cole is one of those sexy and protective heroes that ladies will definitely love. However, I wanted him to man up a bit and make Shaw see the error of her thinking. One minute she is scared out of her mind, the next minute she’s the one that initiates the physical intimacy between them and towards the third act, she is throwing all the blame his way. In my opinion, from the very beginning Cole had loved Shaw more than the other way around. Or perhaps it is the protective streak in Cole that is a mile wide that goes to work the minute he sees the woman he loves in danger. Either way, I thought Cole to be a bit of a pushover; sorry to say that, which is why the impact of his character wasn’t as powerful on my emotions as I wanted it to be.
Even with the elements of the story that didn’t quite work out for me, I managed to enjoy the what Shattered Witness has to offer. Judging from the reviews that this story has received up till now, I think I am in the minority of those who feel this way about both Cole and Shaw. Recommended for fans of romantic suspense novels featuring protective heroes. Cole is definitely someone you’d want by your side when there is a mean villain out to get the best of you and you have absolutely no idea as to why.
Rating = 3.5/5
For more reviews & quotes, visit www.maldivianbookreviewer.com
FBI Special Agent Cole Marinos insinuates himself into the investigation surrounding Shaw Cassidy for one reason. Shaw had been the only woman he had ever loved, her betrayal being the reason that had sent him away from her life 15 years back. While the whole investigation centers around the fact that the agency thinks Shaw has been selling groundbreaking research to enemies of the US like Iran, Cole believes in Shaw’s innocence. With her memory in tatters and the whole investigation riding on the return of her memory, Cole finds himself going above and beyond the call of his duty when he finds himself protecting Shaw once again, a role he swore to himself that he would never again partake in.
From the moment the presence of Cole penetrates through the fog of sheer terror that surrounds Shaw, her trust in him is an inexplicable one. Her need to move close to him one that embarrasses her on so many levels, making her think that the lonely existence that she had lived up till then had made her that desperate for affection. However, when her memories start rolling back in, Shaw realizes that there is more to Cole than meets the eye, their shared past one which makes her realize just how much Cole had sacrificed for her years back. Racing against a ticking clock and a villain who knows far too well what Cole and Shaw are up to, Cole finds himself taking the risk of losing the woman he loves more than his own life all over again by trying to clear up Shaw’s name and getting to the bottom of who it is that is toying with the both of them.
Shattered Witness is a well written novel. Anne DeStefano has a writing style that draws you in. The one thing that really stood out for me was the villain in the story. Surprising? I know. Though the villain is pretty easy to figure out for the reader, the villain would have won if not for Cole’s intervention. The plan all along had been to discredit and let Shaw take the fall or perhaps even send her to the loony bin. With years of meticulous planning, it would have been achieved had not Cole come riding to Shaw’s rescue. I like a good villain in a suspense novel and I got that in Shattered Witness.
Though Shaw and Cole are well created characters, I found myself on the side of feeling an intense dislike for Shaw. Though it did mellow a bit towards the very end of the story, I found Shaw to be a bit too self-involved perhaps? I could relate to her not being able to be there for Cole the one time he had needed her, which had been the reason why he had walked away all those years back. But from the moment Cole enters her life once again, and though he lies to her about him being an agent of the government which is something he had to do given her fragile frame of mind, Cole is nothing but sensitive to her wants and need for protection. His actions spoke louder than words. But the minute Shaw found out, the only thing she could find to do was lay the blame of them not working out this time around because of Cole and his deception. Ah!
Cole is one of those sexy and protective heroes that ladies will definitely love. However, I wanted him to man up a bit and make Shaw see the error of her thinking. One minute she is scared out of her mind, the next minute she’s the one that initiates the physical intimacy between them and towards the third act, she is throwing all the blame his way. In my opinion, from the very beginning Cole had loved Shaw more than the other way around. Or perhaps it is the protective streak in Cole that is a mile wide that goes to work the minute he sees the woman he loves in danger. Either way, I thought Cole to be a bit of a pushover; sorry to say that, which is why the impact of his character wasn’t as powerful on my emotions as I wanted it to be.
Even with the elements of the story that didn’t quite work out for me, I managed to enjoy the what Shattered Witness has to offer. Judging from the reviews that this story has received up till now, I think I am in the minority of those who feel this way about both Cole and Shaw. Recommended for fans of romantic suspense novels featuring protective heroes. Cole is definitely someone you’d want by your side when there is a mean villain out to get the best of you and you have absolutely no idea as to why.
Rating = 3.5/5
For more reviews & quotes, visit www.maldivianbookreviewer.com
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September 13, 2012Rhayne's review posted on Guilty Pleasures
4 Stars
Rapid pace, high intensity, vast suspense, is what you get in this guaranteed page turner. Her forgotten Betrayal focuses on the lives of two former lovers who have to learn to trust one another after 15 years of simmering betrayal. From the first scene in the first chapter each page is smothered with powerful drama and mind boggling mystery.
Shaw is the CEO of Cassidy Global Research, who specializes in providing the government with top-secret technology. She has uncovered a security breach and needs hard evidence to stop it. Otherwise, the trail of evidence leads straight to her. She is being set up and is on a mission to find the actual criminals. In the process of uncovering the truth she is caught and shot by the mastermind who is trying to sabotage not only her company, but her life. As a result of the shooting, she suffers amnesia and has no recollection of anything prior to the incident.
Cole is an FBI agent. He is the best of the best. He is notorious for always completing a mission, although his methods aren’t exactly by the book. Cole is summoned to Atlanta to offer his consultation on their suspect, or so he thought. He is actually assigned to keep tabs on her as she is being sent to her childhood home to help her speed up her recovery efforts.
This is where the story delves into twists and turns, lies and truths, and betrayal. Cole and Shaw have a past. They were childhood friends, who eventually grew up and turned into lovers. I don’t want to go too far into detail about what tore them apart because it really takes away from the suspense of the story. But I will say they were both being played. Cole knows deep down in his gut that Shaw is innocent, but with her having no memories of him or the alleged treason she is surely to be arrested for; it’s a waiting game for her to remember. In the midst of all of this the real culprit of the crimes is still trying to destroy her mind and her life. She struggles to save her own sanity. She has frightening nightmares and she doesn’t know if it’s just dreams or actual incidents from her past. Cole is the bridge between her dreams and her reality. If only she could trust him.
This book moves along swiftly, it is full of action and anticipation. There are a lot of ups and downs. The story focuses mostly on trying to find out who is responsible for the acts against the company and Shaw. There is an underlying plot between Cole and Shaw that follows them as they move on from the past betrayal and focus on trusting, forgiving, and loving again.
4 Stars
Rapid pace, high intensity, vast suspense, is what you get in this guaranteed page turner. Her forgotten Betrayal focuses on the lives of two former lovers who have to learn to trust one another after 15 years of simmering betrayal. From the first scene in the first chapter each page is smothered with powerful drama and mind boggling mystery.
Shaw is the CEO of Cassidy Global Research, who specializes in providing the government with top-secret technology. She has uncovered a security breach and needs hard evidence to stop it. Otherwise, the trail of evidence leads straight to her. She is being set up and is on a mission to find the actual criminals. In the process of uncovering the truth she is caught and shot by the mastermind who is trying to sabotage not only her company, but her life. As a result of the shooting, she suffers amnesia and has no recollection of anything prior to the incident.
Cole is an FBI agent. He is the best of the best. He is notorious for always completing a mission, although his methods aren’t exactly by the book. Cole is summoned to Atlanta to offer his consultation on their suspect, or so he thought. He is actually assigned to keep tabs on her as she is being sent to her childhood home to help her speed up her recovery efforts.
This is where the story delves into twists and turns, lies and truths, and betrayal. Cole and Shaw have a past. They were childhood friends, who eventually grew up and turned into lovers. I don’t want to go too far into detail about what tore them apart because it really takes away from the suspense of the story. But I will say they were both being played. Cole knows deep down in his gut that Shaw is innocent, but with her having no memories of him or the alleged treason she is surely to be arrested for; it’s a waiting game for her to remember. In the midst of all of this the real culprit of the crimes is still trying to destroy her mind and her life. She struggles to save her own sanity. She has frightening nightmares and she doesn’t know if it’s just dreams or actual incidents from her past. Cole is the bridge between her dreams and her reality. If only she could trust him.
This book moves along swiftly, it is full of action and anticipation. There are a lot of ups and downs. The story focuses mostly on trying to find out who is responsible for the acts against the company and Shaw. There is an underlying plot between Cole and Shaw that follows them as they move on from the past betrayal and focus on trusting, forgiving, and loving again.
July 19, 2014
More Reviews Here: Readers Live A Thousand Lives
Why should you read Her Forgotten Betrayal? Well firstly it has a rekindled steamy romance, it also has a suspense filled story line, and did I mention the steamy romance? This is the kind of book that is very easy to finish in one sitting. Shaw and Cole are great characters and you will easily become invested in their story.
From the moment I picked up Her Forgotten Betrayal, I knew I was going to enjoy it. I am a sucker for romance, especially the kind of romance that is in this book. Love lost, love found again, only to be threatened once more, and then the inevitable question of will they make it work this time? These are the types of book that mess with your head and make your heart hurt, but I love them all the same. Maybe I am just a glutton for punishment, but there is something great about books like Her Forgotten Betrayal. Now add in a little bit of suspense and we have a winner.
While my favorite part of the story was the relationship, the suspense was not lacking. The book opens up with Shaw in danger, and that feeling of danger never completely goes away throughout the length of the novel. Even when you think Shaw is safe, there is still a nagging feeling that she is not. While I will admit to correctly guessing the culprit of all her problems, I was seriously stumped as to how and why he was the culprit. I could not figure out how the culprit was managing to get to Shaw and this kept me reading until I finally had the answer.
This story was very character driven and we meet very few characters outside of Shaw and Cole. While this may sound like a drawback, in this case it is not. The story centered around these characters and their past and issues and potential future. The addition of other characters would have taken away from their story and relationship. The novel is written in a way that allows you to get inside both Cole and Shaw’s head. This enables the reader to know how the characters are feeling and see how each are reacting to various situations. I always enjoy a book that allows me to see inside each of the characters head, that way I don’t have to guess their intentions and feelings.
Overall, Her Forgotten Betrayal is a great, quick, fun, and thrilling read. It is very easy to finish in one sitting, and therefore the perfect summer read. Grab the book and relax with it for a few hours.
Source: I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Why should you read Her Forgotten Betrayal? Well firstly it has a rekindled steamy romance, it also has a suspense filled story line, and did I mention the steamy romance? This is the kind of book that is very easy to finish in one sitting. Shaw and Cole are great characters and you will easily become invested in their story.
From the moment I picked up Her Forgotten Betrayal, I knew I was going to enjoy it. I am a sucker for romance, especially the kind of romance that is in this book. Love lost, love found again, only to be threatened once more, and then the inevitable question of will they make it work this time? These are the types of book that mess with your head and make your heart hurt, but I love them all the same. Maybe I am just a glutton for punishment, but there is something great about books like Her Forgotten Betrayal. Now add in a little bit of suspense and we have a winner.
While my favorite part of the story was the relationship, the suspense was not lacking. The book opens up with Shaw in danger, and that feeling of danger never completely goes away throughout the length of the novel. Even when you think Shaw is safe, there is still a nagging feeling that she is not. While I will admit to correctly guessing the culprit of all her problems, I was seriously stumped as to how and why he was the culprit. I could not figure out how the culprit was managing to get to Shaw and this kept me reading until I finally had the answer.
This story was very character driven and we meet very few characters outside of Shaw and Cole. While this may sound like a drawback, in this case it is not. The story centered around these characters and their past and issues and potential future. The addition of other characters would have taken away from their story and relationship. The novel is written in a way that allows you to get inside both Cole and Shaw’s head. This enables the reader to know how the characters are feeling and see how each are reacting to various situations. I always enjoy a book that allows me to see inside each of the characters head, that way I don’t have to guess their intentions and feelings.
Overall, Her Forgotten Betrayal is a great, quick, fun, and thrilling read. It is very easy to finish in one sitting, and therefore the perfect summer read. Grab the book and relax with it for a few hours.
Source: I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for a fair and honest review.
June 28, 2012
Thank you to Entangled Publishing for providing a copy to read/review in return of my honest opinion.
You can now find my review and interview with author Anna DeStefano on the blog: http://the-bookaholic.blogspot.com/20...
Her Forgotten Betrayal immediately starts with the action and that’s what I like. The story pulls you right in and it’s entertaining from the beginning with page-turning scenes and an interesting idea. This wasn’t cheesy romance, or even something I’d consider “too naughty”. Just enough spice to give the book some oomph. What I liked most was following Shaw along on her recovery to gaining her memories back. What would you do if you ever experienced some type of accident that left you with amnesia? I think it’d be awful. Memories can be so important to us, and I think after reading this, I realized just how much. This makes you think about life and possible second chances.
Cole Marinos sounds like the typical knight-in-shining-armor that women adore. I’d probably be one of them. He was a sweetheart to Shaw. Protective and loyal. I liked how even after years of not seeing her, he was quick to drop his own past problems to help her out in any way necessary. And even through some of her whiney, weak, or crazy moments, he remained completely patient.
The only thing/minor nitpick I may have on this read personally would be that while yes, there’s a major twist at the end, I found it a bit predictable. It could have easily just been me. I think oftentimes I’m really a good guesser when it comes to mysteries/crimes, so I’d already guessed about halfway through on what the twist was. Ha. Otherwise, I found it really an entertaining read that I couldn’t put down. The action was there. The romance was strong. The scenery was lovely.
If you like a bit of spice, mystery, rekindled romance, and drama: this is for you.
<3
Pixie
You can now find my review and interview with author Anna DeStefano on the blog: http://the-bookaholic.blogspot.com/20...
Her Forgotten Betrayal immediately starts with the action and that’s what I like. The story pulls you right in and it’s entertaining from the beginning with page-turning scenes and an interesting idea. This wasn’t cheesy romance, or even something I’d consider “too naughty”. Just enough spice to give the book some oomph. What I liked most was following Shaw along on her recovery to gaining her memories back. What would you do if you ever experienced some type of accident that left you with amnesia? I think it’d be awful. Memories can be so important to us, and I think after reading this, I realized just how much. This makes you think about life and possible second chances.
Cole Marinos sounds like the typical knight-in-shining-armor that women adore. I’d probably be one of them. He was a sweetheart to Shaw. Protective and loyal. I liked how even after years of not seeing her, he was quick to drop his own past problems to help her out in any way necessary. And even through some of her whiney, weak, or crazy moments, he remained completely patient.
The only thing/minor nitpick I may have on this read personally would be that while yes, there’s a major twist at the end, I found it a bit predictable. It could have easily just been me. I think oftentimes I’m really a good guesser when it comes to mysteries/crimes, so I’d already guessed about halfway through on what the twist was. Ha. Otherwise, I found it really an entertaining read that I couldn’t put down. The action was there. The romance was strong. The scenery was lovely.
If you like a bit of spice, mystery, rekindled romance, and drama: this is for you.
<3
Pixie
April 9, 2014
Prelim Review: Part of the new 'Dead Sexy' line of books from Entangled, HER FORGOTTEN BETRAYAL caught my eye because DeStefano previously wrote another book I enjoyed (DARK LEGACY) and Entangled by in large doesn't let me down in terms of writing or content.
To get the bad out of the way, I guessed who the mysterious stalker was pretty quickly. This isn't a fault on DeStefano's part, but more because this is a very 'closed room' sort of book. After the opening scene at her office and then the hospital, the book stays firmly at either the Mansion where Shaw was recuperating at or the woods surrounding it. Its remote, only the FBI, Cole, and Shaw know where she's at (presumably). The few times we 'see' through the stalker's eyes it becomes very apparent that this person knows Shaw personally and knows the house as well. It narrows the list down in a hurry.
DeStefano's handling of the stalker gets glossed over a bit, especially the history and how this person was able to basically run roughshod over Shaw's business for quite some time. And I wasn't convinced as to the events that happened so long ago, why this person would make a bigger deal out of it.
Full Review to be posted at Poisoned Rationality
To get the bad out of the way, I guessed who the mysterious stalker was pretty quickly. This isn't a fault on DeStefano's part, but more because this is a very 'closed room' sort of book. After the opening scene at her office and then the hospital, the book stays firmly at either the Mansion where Shaw was recuperating at or the woods surrounding it. Its remote, only the FBI, Cole, and Shaw know where she's at (presumably). The few times we 'see' through the stalker's eyes it becomes very apparent that this person knows Shaw personally and knows the house as well. It narrows the list down in a hurry.
DeStefano's handling of the stalker gets glossed over a bit, especially the history and how this person was able to basically run roughshod over Shaw's business for quite some time. And I wasn't convinced as to the events that happened so long ago, why this person would make a bigger deal out of it.
Full Review to be posted at Poisoned Rationality
July 14, 2012
I think I really liked this one because I really liked the hero, Cole. He was smart, patient, loyal, a creative problem solver. I also like how the plot was revealed in 2 ways through Cole and Shaw talking things out, including their history and some flashbacks and through action like bullet shots, chases through the woods, explosions,etc. Oh yeah there was a heroine, named for some strange reason "Shaw" She is the amnesia victim in this one, and hopefully due to her amnesia behaves like a hysterical, overwrought ninny through the majority of the book. It sounds like I didn't like her but kudos to the author because Shaw was actually believable and her hysteria was made understandable (for the most part) by her circumstances. By the grande finale of the book, you could see why Cole stuck with her and pretty much let her do it her way to trap the villain.
July 6, 2012
Full review at Talk Supe
HER FORGOTTEN BETRAYAL has a lot of potential for intrigue and double crossing espionage not to mention all that heat and unfinished business between Cole and Shaw to go beyond 300 pages. I guess it's for my own selfish reasons that I am looking for more because I truly love the plot and I wanted more page time with Cole and Shaw outside the case. Here's to hoping that I'll get my wish on ADeStefano's next book because I sure could use more of her brand of Dead Sexy.
HER FORGOTTEN BETRAYAL has a lot of potential for intrigue and double crossing espionage not to mention all that heat and unfinished business between Cole and Shaw to go beyond 300 pages. I guess it's for my own selfish reasons that I am looking for more because I truly love the plot and I wanted more page time with Cole and Shaw outside the case. Here's to hoping that I'll get my wish on ADeStefano's next book because I sure could use more of her brand of Dead Sexy.
October 16, 2012
This book moves along swiftly, it is full of action and anticipation. There are a lot of ups and downs. The story focuses mostly on trying to find out who is responsible for the acts against the company and Shaw. There is an underlying plot between Cole and Shaw that follows them as they move on from the past betrayal and focus on trusting, forgiving, and loving again.
Complete Review also posted here: http://www.guiltypleasuresbookreviews...
Complete Review also posted here: http://www.guiltypleasuresbookreviews...
July 2, 2012
The baddie in this story(vague to avoid spoiler)together with the taut build up of the sinister, provided one of those reads after which you have to sleep with the light on.
Shaw and Cole share an interesting, convincing dynamic with Cole playing a reluctant but can't-help-himself hero. Shaw has more strength than we are originally led to believe and Ms DeStefano writes in a way that demands the reader invest and start rooting loudly for these two.
Go read!
Shaw and Cole share an interesting, convincing dynamic with Cole playing a reluctant but can't-help-himself hero. Shaw has more strength than we are originally led to believe and Ms DeStefano writes in a way that demands the reader invest and start rooting loudly for these two.
Go read!
November 15, 2014
I really wanted to like this book but found it so unbelievable at times that it became annoying. The author has great characters and the story line had so much potential but fell short and felt rushed. Yes, we romantic readers want our swoon moments but when these characters meet (after that awesome well written intro) your only thought is.... "I don't think so!" Sorry, this one wasn't for me.
April 9, 2013
deleting reviews if you want to take a look at them you can do so on my blog, link on my profile
November 2, 2014
Shattered Witness well written, with two strong lead characters. Though the suspense is minimal and takes a back seat to the romance, it was pretty good story.
August 6, 2017
A brutal assault leaves high-powered CEO Shaw Cassidy’s memory shattered. Her isolated estate on High Lake Mountain should be her haven, but nightmares and eerie shadows threaten her sanity. A shot in the night sends her running from the creaking Victorian into the arms of a stranger she instinctively trusts. But is he her hero, or her downfall?
Time is running out for special agent Cole Marinos. His undercover assignment: to protect his childhood sweetheart—the lost love who broke his heart. His reality: Shaw is suspected of treason. To uncover the top-secret government leak that will exonerate her, he must trigger her memories of her stalker…and of Cole’s long-ago betrayal.
The evil tracking Shaw closes in, each attack more cruel and personal than the last. And each is designed to implicate Cole. With Shaw’s memory returning and her life on the line, is she trusting a man she once promised to love forever? Or is Cole the monster who wants her dead?
Revised edition: Previously published as Her Forgotten Betrayal, this edition of Shattered Witness includes editorial revisions.
Time is running out for special agent Cole Marinos. His undercover assignment: to protect his childhood sweetheart—the lost love who broke his heart. His reality: Shaw is suspected of treason. To uncover the top-secret government leak that will exonerate her, he must trigger her memories of her stalker…and of Cole’s long-ago betrayal.
The evil tracking Shaw closes in, each attack more cruel and personal than the last. And each is designed to implicate Cole. With Shaw’s memory returning and her life on the line, is she trusting a man she once promised to love forever? Or is Cole the monster who wants her dead?
Revised edition: Previously published as Her Forgotten Betrayal, this edition of Shattered Witness includes editorial revisions.
August 8, 2017
I picked this up on a whim through KU and it far exceeded my expectations! This was a great suspense story with a bit of a physiological thriller elements included as well. The romance added a great depth to the story, and it was a fantastic second chance at love. I adored Shaw and Cole! The pacing of the story was great, and I loved that we got to learn things along with Shaw as her memory returned. It was pretty easy to guess the villain, but that didn't detract from the story for me. Overall, a thoroughly enjoyable read. 5 stars!
August 10, 2017
It was pretty good. Splotchy ending tho
I liked this book for the most part. I felt pretty much all of it was believable. Until the ending. And without giving too much away...it was obvious from jump street who the bad guy was. So I did hate how I figured that out so quickly but all of the characters seemed so oblivious to it. I was seriously getting frustrated because they were not figuring it out. The bad guy also seemed so cliche'. I really feel the book would have been better without that obvious so much a twist ending. Otherwise it was a good and enjoyable read.
I liked this book for the most part. I felt pretty much all of it was believable. Until the ending. And without giving too much away...it was obvious from jump street who the bad guy was. So I did hate how I figured that out so quickly but all of the characters seemed so oblivious to it. I was seriously getting frustrated because they were not figuring it out. The bad guy also seemed so cliche'. I really feel the book would have been better without that obvious so much a twist ending. Otherwise it was a good and enjoyable read.
July 11, 2017
Oh Please
This book was not for me. Pretty much totally over done romance. I found myself rolling my eyes and saying "oh please" many times. The bad guy was so obvious and again very much over the top.
This book was not for me. Pretty much totally over done romance. I found myself rolling my eyes and saying "oh please" many times. The bad guy was so obvious and again very much over the top.
July 30, 2017
Great story weak ending
Loved this suspense story . The main character, Shaw, trying to get her memories back after being shot. Lots of twists and turns. Disappointed in the ending that seemed overly predictable.
Loved this suspense story . The main character, Shaw, trying to get her memories back after being shot. Lots of twists and turns. Disappointed in the ending that seemed overly predictable.
July 23, 2024
This book was way to predictable for me. I had it figured out about half way through the book. I was hoping I was wrong and that there would be a surprise or a twist, but it ended as I suspected it would.
May 12, 2017
This was an Awesome book. I was in suspense the whole time I was reading it. I knew who was stalking her but I needed to know how it would end. Thanks for the good read. I can breath again.
June 6, 2017
Great premise. Stupid heroine.
July 15, 2017
I enjoyed this book but figured out who the bad guy was the first time the story was told from his POV. It was pretty obvious and could have been done better to keep readers guessing.
July 30, 2017
Predictable but still a fun read
August 10, 2017
Not bad...
It's an entertaining book, but I figured out who the 'bad guy' was really early in the book. No real surprises.
It's an entertaining book, but I figured out who the 'bad guy' was really early in the book. No real surprises.
August 14, 2017
Great twists and turns
Excellent story, couldn't put it down! Hero's are not who we always expect them to be, sometimes they are waiting for the right time
Excellent story, couldn't put it down! Hero's are not who we always expect them to be, sometimes they are waiting for the right time
August 17, 2017
Loved. Loved. Loved this book
Shaw, Cole, and even Esme.....compelling - exciting story. Hope to read more from this author. I know you'll enjoy this book, too.
Shaw, Cole, and even Esme.....compelling - exciting story. Hope to read more from this author. I know you'll enjoy this book, too.
September 4, 2017
This book has action, mystery, romance, and family dynamics that will keep a reader interested.
It didn't take me long to figure out the plot, but even so, I was entertained.
It didn't take me long to figure out the plot, but even so, I was entertained.
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