In Deep

In Deep #1

by Kella McKinnon

Brielle

What would you do if you met a man that made you burn like wildfire from the inside out? Burn so hot that with one touch you forgot to breathe?

And if you knew that he had dangerous secrets? Would you be able to walk away?

I couldn’t. As strong as I know I am, I kept going back for more of him. That body… those eyes…

I saw him for the first time on my very first day in Vegas, and even then I think a part of me knew, because I couldn’t look away. It was like that moment when you see something flying towards you and you know it’s going to hit you before you can ever move out of the way, so you just watch, transfixed, as it crashes into you. Cristos Vicario: owner of the illustrious Adagio hotel and casino and reputed billionaire playboy. He sure as hell wasn’t what he seemed on the surface. That man had secrets. No one knew what a dark and dangerous world he lived in, and when I finally saw him for what he was, it was already far too late. I found myself inextricably tied to him forever. The course of my life altered. My entire world changed forever as he took away my freedom and gave me the key to my dreams in one fell swoop.

How could I have known that the one man who should have been my greatest nightmare would become the one thing I couldn’t live without? And all I had to do was forgive him…

Cristos


I was only living for one thing, one goal, one endgame… until I saw Brielle. And when I touched her, it was all over for me… I just didn’t know it yet. Not until I broke all of my rules for her, one after another, and that still wasn’t enough. I wanted more.

I wanted it all. Yeah, what I did to her was pretty much unforgivable. I know that now. Some small part of me might have known it then, too, but it didn’t matter. I had to hold on to her. I would have done anything to keep her… and I did.
Now I’ve put her in danger, dragged her into my world, and I don’t know whether to push her away or hold her tighter. Letting her go would be the right thing to do… but every time I try to do the right thing… I can’t.

When I take her, it’s always hard and desperate, as if she’ll disappear if I can’t make her feel the same things I feel... if I can’t force her to care about me enough that she’ll look past everything else and see into my heart.
Last night, after she fell asleep, still wrapped in my arms, I rested my lips against the top of her head and inhaled the scent of her as she slept. Trusting me, even though she shouldn’t. “I don’t deserve you”, I whispered. “But I want you. God, I want you so badly.”

Genres: Romance, Contemporary, Contemporary Romance, Steamy, Adult, Crime, Suspense

245 pages, Kindle Edition

First published September 28, 2014

About the author

Kella McKinnon lives in New England on a mini-farm with her husband and three children, and is finally making time for her favorite past-time: writing passionate stories that take the reader away to another time or place.

Reviews

[Michelle · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 - 4 Stars

Cristos Vicario: owner of the illustrious Adagio hotel and casino and reputed billionaire playboy. Doesn't do relationships and had a whole set of rules that he never broke until he sees Brielle one day.

Brielle Dalton: grad student in anthropology is in Vegas to finish up her research. She doesn't do one night stands. But she can't help the strong attraction she's never felt before when Cristos looks her way.

What would you do if you met a man that made you burn like wildfire from the inside out? Burn so hot that with one touch you forgot to breathe? ~Brielle

I was only living for one thing, one goal, one endgame… until I saw Brielle. And when I touched her, it was all over for me… I just didn’t know it yet. Not until I broke all of my rules for her, one after another, and that still wasn’t enough. I wanted more. ~Cristos

These two meet and the sparks start to fly. Cristos with his intense stare and his alpha possessive ways. I wish I could say that the sex was steamy but IMO it was just meh. Maybe the next book. lol
Cristos is holding back from Brielle. He has some serious trust issues and he knows when Bri finally sees him for what he is he's going to lose her.
Bri knows Cris is hiding some dark secrets and warning flags have gone up all over the place...but she can't stay away from this man.
We get both Cris and Bri's POV. We also get some of both of their painful pasts. I wish I could say a lot happened in this book but it didn't. I'm hoping the next book will deliver some action and we get some answers. When these two find out more about each other the shit is going to hit the fan. Of course I have a feeling everything is not what it seems.
I'm off to read book 2 In Deeper now.
Both books are under KU if you have it:))

[Carol (StarAngel's Reviews) Allen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book – In Deep (In Deep #1)
Author – Kella McKinnon
Publication Date – October, 2014
Genre – Romance
Type – Part of Series
Cliffhanger - Yes
Rating – 4 out of 5 Stars

Complimentary Copy generously provided by the Author in exchange for an honest review.


My Thoughts - Story
The title of this book means so much more than just a name – it is exactly the reading experience…DEEP.  The love story between Cristos and Brielle is so entertaining and I had no problem connecting with these characters.



I did have a bit of a problem with the writing but it didn’t deter me from being engrossed in the story line. It was frustrating at times with the YES/NO decisions with Brie..the tension..but seemed to work with the story.

Re-Cap
This is a story about Christos who is a billionaire bad boy and Brielle with their headstrong ways – Brielle wants to keep her head on straight and finish her schooling-Christos never wanted more than a careless fling but for some reason when the two connect…staying away from each other is out of the question.



The ending left me wanting more!

Reason for Reading – Author Request
Story – 4 out of 5 Stars
Steam – 4 out of 5 Stars
Angst – 4 out of 5 Stars
Writing – 3.5 out of 5 Stars
Content Flow – 4 out of 5 Stars
HEA (Spoiler) - Yes
Would Read More from Author? Yes

[TeriLyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

**In Deep generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.**

In Deep tells the story of dark and dangerous billionaire bad boy, Cristos, and the educated beauty Brielle by way of alternating POV, engaging dialogue and an interesting plot progression. Both characters are quite strong in their being each coming from pasts they haven’t fully let go. One of which we learned for certain is quite dark and haunted yet we don’t fully understand the magnitude. The other much less dark but no less painful. Each of these characters entertained me.

I struggled back and forth with what to rate this book between three and four stars. While the writing could definitely be more fluid and bit more polished, there is no denying the fact of intrigue here. This author completely drew me into the story engrossing me in these two characters. The attraction to each other was shear animalistic passion. Drawn to each other like magnetics, each taking a mature stance on the development of that relationship. There were definitely parts of the story that frustrated me, there’s a push/pull dynamic between the two characters that gets redundant. But what was happening in this plot and working in the subplot – some of which is predictable yet still intriguing - kept me glued to the pages.

Know that I believe readers will be engrossed by Cristos and Brielle’s story. Some finer aspects to the story could definitely be polished but overall I refuse to rate based on nitpicking. The story left me hanging and I had no other choice but to pick up book two immediately because the author left me wanting more of the story between these two. That in and of itself is testament to the story. I’d definitely recommend In Deep to romance lovers who don’t mind a push/pull dynamic between heroine/hero, a little predictable mystery, and hot passion.

[100sweet · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loved this story. The H was a total ALPHA CAVEMAN!! So crazy possessive and obsessive. He is also dangerous and has no problems killing. His background story was really good and nothing like I've read before. Ladies, the sex scenes in this story alone are worth the price. Let me just say the H is always desperate for the h and can't wait. This does end in a cliffhanger and I'm reading the next one ASAP. The reason I didn't give this a perfect score was because of the beginning. So many people spoke openly about the H's sex life that it was a huge turnoff. No one will just walk up to you and discuss another person's performance in bed. That's stupid.

[Sky- A hopeless romantic girl :D · Rating 3 out of 5]

Book 1- 3 stars
Book 2- 3.5 stars

Tbh It was an ok read and mainly i enjoyed it just because the hero was acc. To my liking which is being possessive, passionate and dominating ..

Heroine was okay but she did'nt impressed me at all..

Now if you want to read about a couple who every time see each other can't keep their hands off and want to just fuck ( pardon my lang but i think this was the word they were using quite often)each other at every turn that at times even i was feeling exhasted and wanted to shout!


Then this is the book for you!

The plot was very weak imo as the whole book was about nothing but Hero pushing Heroine away and f#cking her because he can't have her enough!



I enjoyed it to a point because hello? possessive hero!
And it was'nt that bad either ...

All over if you are in need of an Alpha man whose insecure , hurt and with trust issues then this is the book 4 u...

[Jane · Rating 3 out of 5]

In Deep (#1) by Kella Mckinnon

3 Stars

Where to start? Well, the storyline is quite generic and predictable for this style of book, self made multi-millionaire/billionaire, broody male lead with a secret and several issues preventing him from committing to a female. Our female lead is your average girl, who also has a troubled past but financially lives hand to mouth, his total opposite! The pair meet and we have insta’ lust/love each one thinking the other is the most perfect person they ever did meet

Did I groan at the fact that she just happens to be so special that he breaks all his own rules for her? That he wants her to be the first girl he sleeps with… without a condom? That he suddenly doesn’t mind if she accidentally becomes pregnant, in fact he is slightly excited by the prospect. YES I groaned. I didn’t want to groan, because I am the ultimate romance lover so I don’t mind clichés but something about this book failed to make me swoon.

Was it Brielle and her accepting nature that did it? Maybe. I mean when Criss decided she should move into his hotel and he had his man-slave pack her stuff and move it without her knowledge I just thought, NO WAY, I’d go crazy at that kind of caveman behaviour. Yes she is a little indignant but then with a flick of her hand and an ‘oh I’m too tired to argue’ she just accepts it and goes along with it. It was irritating, I wanted to slap her into reality.

There was sex, lots of it, but I didn’t feel it, some of the scenes were quite wooden and not all, but some of the vocab was awkward and unnatural. The underlying story faded into the background, even with Cristos’ flashbacks, which came late into the book, it wasn’t enough to bring it to the forefront.

Overall it was an okay read but I was in the mood for something fresh and what I got was a rehash of all the books I’ve read before. His refusal to ‘kiss’ because it was too intimate was so ‘Pretty Woman’ and I was disappointed at the lack of originality.

Copy supplied for review

[Nikki Reeves · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was my first book by Kella and I loved it. Brielle moved to Vegas to finish up her PhD so she could help others in another country. We learn that Brielle’s father was in the FBI and so is her brother Jake. Brie’s father was killed and her brother is out to find the people involved. Brie settles into the city and starts her investing to finish her work and that’s the first time she sees Cristos. She is drawn to him right away but they only have a short encounter. Then she meets a girl named Lexi who is helping her with her research and doesn’t realize Criss is Lexi’s boss. Lexi invites Brie to a party and that’s when she actually meets Criss for the first time. First I loved how this book was told from both main characters POV’s. I knew Criss was hiding something and throughout the book we get a back story of some of the things he has been through. Cristos says he doesn’t date but I loved the fact that he couldn’t stay away from Brie. Criss is definitely an alpha male in every way and even though Brie fought him for a while, she finally gave into him. I loved how these two bickered back and forth with each other and both are very hard headed. Sometimes I wanted to smack Criss and say wake up before you loss the best thing that has ever happened to you. I also loved how Brie gives it right back to Criss but then again she always seems to fall for his charm in the end. Cristos is a character I feel in love with because he is so determined not to fall in love but yet you can see him falling for Brie and he doesn’t even realize how far. The end of this book is a cliffhanger and I was like NO I need to know what happens now!!!! So needless to say I am jumping right into the next story because I have to see how the story plays out for the wonderful characters.

[CeCe · Rating 3 out of 5]

I loved when twenty questions was played. Cristos wants to control more, but she will not let him. I am glad that with certain things Brielle stuck to her guns. I really liked the premise of the story.
Brielle has moved to Vegas to finish her dissertation and get in PhD in Anthropology. Her main focus is drug trafficking. She walks into Adagio hotel asking for permission to hand out questionnaires about drugs. There she runs into the owner of Adagio, Cristos Vicario. Cristos is the typical billionaire you read in the stories; he has sex with women, but does not do relationship. Cristos is intrigued with Brielle and off course he wants to have her, but she knows his reputation and has no interest in being a one night stand. However, Cristos pursues Brielle and from there the story starts as well as Brielle trying to find who is behind the drug smuggling that killed her father.
Brielle did not give into Cristos’s charm right away, but sometimes I did not understand why Cristos wanted to be with Brielle. She appeared a bit immature at times. She loved to go out and drink.

My rating really has to do with all the inner dialogue. There was too much information about the type of drink, how many and then information about friends that I could have done without. My main interest and concern is with the main characters. Sometimes less is more in these types of books because I want to come up with my own conclusion.

A copy provided in exchange for an honest review.

[***Cheryl*** · Rating 4 out of 5]

In Deep is the first book in a 2 part series by Kella McKinnon.
The story is about Brielle and Cristos and is told from both their POV. Brielle had recent moved to Vegas to carry out some more of her research whilst Christos is a millionaire who owns one the hotels and casino in Vegas. When the pair meet there is an instant connection and attraction between them both. They have great chemistry. Christos however doesn’t do relationships and even has a no kissing rule, whereas Brie has no intentions of being one of Christos ‘ one night stands. However Christos slowly starts to break some of his rules to get closer to Brie.
I really enjoyed this story. I like the duel POV as I felt it helped to explain the characters actions more especially with the inner dialogue however there were times when this went a little too far being a little descriptive. I liked the little aspect of the mystery that the story that kept me hooked because I wanted to find out about the characters and their secrets. Their relationship is very explosive and there some very hot sex scenes in the book.
The book is very well written and flows well. I was hooked from the beginning and wanted to keep reading. It does end on a slight cliffhanger and I am glad I had book 2 to go straight on to.


* I received a review copy from the author in exchange for an honest review

[SnoopyDoo · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a fast and enjoyable read. It was written in dual POVs , we get Brielle’s and Criss’s POV , although Criss we get a lot of background story and from his childhood. I rather liked that because it shows us (mostly) why he does what he does and explains a lot of his behavior. He thinks and is a lot different than he seems to Brielle from her POV.
You can find my full review here:
http://snoopydoosbookreviews.com/deep...

[Kim Howlett · Rating 4 out of 5]

In Deep. (In Deep #1)

I had never heard of the author, Kella McKinnon until recently when I heard of the In Deep Series. Having heard that it is a fantastic series, I couldn't wait to read the series when I as asked too.
In Deep is the first book in the In Deep series. The story was told in alternate POVs between the two main characters Brie and Cristos. I love books told in alternate POVs. I think when book are told this way you get a much better insight in to the characters thoughts, so you can connect with them quicker and you get a better look at there lives that you wouldn't get if you only have one point of view in a story.
I enjoyed the story very much. It gripped me right from the start and I couldn't put it down. The story flowed brilliantly and the characters were very well developed. The story was everything I wanted it to be and more.
Brielle (Brie) is spending afew months in Vegas. Whilst there she attends a party that will change her life forever.
Cristos (Criss) is the owner of the Grand Adagio hotel and Casino. This is where he first sees Brie and wants her. Criss is a gorgeous man who is extremly confident, arragent, and very charming. Criss has a reputation with the ladies of being the king of one night stands. He's proud of his reputation and doesn't care who knows about it.
Both are drawn to each other instantly, but Brie is warned of Criss reputation so she makes the decision to stay away from him esp after Brie confronts him about his reputation. Criss keeps Persuing Brie until she finally gives in. There relationship instantly becomes explosive. Mostly because Brie can tell Criss is keep secrets and she doesn't understand why he is so standoffish and closed off towards her.. Because of the alternate POVs you get to find out about Criss's past and upbringing. This makes you understand why he is the way he is and why he is so standoffish and why he is the way he is. Once I understood abit about Criss past and childhood I warmed to him so much more and I connected with his character better. If there wasn't a alternate POV then I don't think the book would of been as good, because we needed to understand all we do about Criss from him and him alone.
Brie also has suffered loss and because of that she is so scared of leaving this world without making a difference somehow or another. All she wants to do is help Criss and heal him. She is compassionate towards Criss through the little information she knows of Criss childhood.
I really loved both characters and I can't think of anything the author could of done to make the characters or storyline better. They are both intriguing, complex, interesting and mysterious.
The author made the story perfect. She balanced the book out brilliantly with interest, sexual tension, passion, need, lust, want and love. I love how the author made the story fast paced so you was gripped from start to finish. I couldn't put the book down and read it in one sitting. Some parts were really funny, which I thought was brilliant as it broke up the seriousness of the book just where you needed it to.
I loved Criss even though he was so messed up. I loved how interesting his character was. He has some serious issues and was slightly twisted but I loved him and loved how the author created such a mind blowing character who has everything a great character needs.
I can't wait to read book 2.

4.5 Stars

[Khanique McDaniel · Rating 3 out of 5]

I am a sucker for philosophy and quotes! At the beginning of each chapter, we got little quotes that got me thinking and I will admit to going crazy with my kindle highlighter for a few. This, I believe was one of the best features of this novel.

Though this is a story line that I have read before, I would like to think that this one was different. In the end, Criss didn't change much of his POV, but his theories and train of thought would make any psychologist delirious with joy! Yes, he's got issues. I can't say I connected much with his character but I will say that I wanna know what exactly it is that he's plotting.

Regardless of the cliche themes and progression, Brie was a spark in all that familiarity as she remained realistic and brought a different angle and approach to the usual billionaire romance story line. She questioned everything and became the more relateable of the two.

Initially, I thought that this would be one of those dual POV novels, where one character repeated everything that happened in the previous chapter, but then it turned into snapshots of Cristos's past. It's not a very nice past, but it was my first time being treated to this writing style and I found that most of the mystery, intrigue and questions came with the past recollections, as nothing note worthy happened in the present. Except for a whole lot of angry sex!

Yes, it is a cliffhanger and on top of that, I find myself still trying to figure out the point, climax and overall journey this story will be taking. I thought I had it all figured out but as the novel got closer to the end, I found that I really don't know much about the past or future. I am still trying to figure out the characters, their motivations and decisions. I am totally clueless as to where this novel is going or wants us to follow.

It has a few grammatical errors but it's nothing overwhelming and I find that Brie's personality and reactions allowed you to overlook some of the faults, as you remained interested in the story as it progresses, trying to find the end or point. My biggest concern now is how the author will be able to straighten and present a complete story in one more novel, because even the basics are still murky. The conversations were few and in between and we spent most of the time in both characters heads.

This novel can easily fall in the category of billionaire romance but there is something about Brie that makes it more. She adds a difference with her firm grip on life. There is nothing sexier than a confident and secure woman in love.

Regardless of my love for Brie, there is a story here and I really want to find out what it is. Also, there is the added intrigue of that kiss that we both want so badly :)

Who knew a kiss held so much power?

[Traceys · Rating 5 out of 5]

In Deep is book 1 in a 2 book series by Kella McKinnon, This was my first book by Kella and I really enjoyed it.

Cris is a millionaire bad boy that owns a casino in Las Vegas, he has a reputation but people don't know he has another side, one his trying desperately to escape, until his free he has certain rules he sticks by, limited alcohol, no kissing and no relationships.....

Brie is completing her PhD paper, she's travelled to Las Vegas to complete her studies and maybe have some fun too.

Then these two meet.....

It's attraction they can't escape, Brie desperately wants to give into Cris, for her own sake, but knows he'll dump her straight after his got what he wants, so she keeps him waiting, shutting the door on him. Cris is forced to take action and takes Brie out, she's still not giving in. Eventually they get it together but by then things have changed between them, could they be falling for each other....

Cris was on one level your average alpha millionaire, underneath, deeper...... His a lot more, he has a darker side, but his still just a man that really want to be loved, but in his world he can't.

Brie is a breath of fresh air, I loved her strength, she gave in to him in the end, but she wanted it as much. She was very real too, all the way through, not trying to hold onto him, trying to do her own thing, even if Cris makes that hard.

Talking hard, when they become lovers, scratch that, when they start to f..k, they don't stop, Cris is very demanding but not kinky (as yet). I called it f..king as Cris won't kiss, his very passionate though, and Brie is very accommodating to his sexual needs.

You get both of their points of view in this book, so even if you think Cris may not give much away to Brie, in his part we're let in on his past and how he feels.

As I finished book 1, Heres some thoughts I had....

Omg Cris, what a life you've had, the things you've done are horrible, but it was pushed on you, so I can forgive you I think!, You need Brie, but can she forgive you........

Brie your so strong, and Cris is so appealing to you, he has some hard and dark secrets do you care for him enough?

I loved this book, I really enjoyed Brie, maybe more than Cris! I'd definitely recommend this book to people.

Im going straight on to read In Deeper, book 2. I will be checking out authors other books too.


**i received a complimentary copy of book for an honest review**

[Breanna Eichhorn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brielle has her whole life planned out. She is in Vegas to finish her PH.D dissertation in anthropology and she was there to have fun in her relatively care free last days as a student, she never relized how short life was. She spent the last four years researching the impact of the drug trade on the people of Honduras.Brielle's fatgher was an FBI agent and he was killed in the line of duty. She hoped that her work would make a difference too. She chose a hotel that was a couple blocks away from the strip. Casa Del Rio the hotel looked a bit seedy and it also was in the wrong part of town. When Cristos and Brielle met for the first time was at the Adiago. Brielle thought that doing her remaining research at the Adiago, so she went to the HR department to make sure that it was okay. Cristos always gets what he wants and what he wants is Brie. Cristos called her to ask her out for dinner. When Criss took her to where she was staying, he wasn't happy with where she was staying. He doesn't like that she got a job with David Barros as his personal assistant.
Brielle lost her father five years ago. She is worried that she is going to loose Jake too., she wants to work in Honduras. She also looking for a serious relationship. Jake is Brielle's older brother by ten years. He didn't take their dad's death very well. He is single mindedly searching for their father's killer. He is very pertective of Brielle.Cristos Vicario is the owner of the illustrious Adiago Hotel and Casino. He is a reputed Billionaire Playboy, has rules that he doesn't break. Lost his brother and father in a car accident. He is a love them and leave them type. Alexis is Brielle's friend and she works HR for the Adiago. Manny is Cristos friend, he is married and has two children Rosa and MJ. Elsa is very nice, Manny's wife. David Barros is Brielle's boss, Cristos doesn't like him.
This is the first in the series In Deep, and its my first book by Kella McKinnon and it most definitely will not be my last. I loved Kella's style of writing, I loved that I was drawn into the story from the first page . I also loved how well the characters were developed. I also loved the story line. I highly recommend this book to everyone!

[Book-Bosomed blog · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars

“He’s bad news. Looks all polished and business-like, but he isn’t, not underneath. He’s heartache and misery all covered up in wads of cash and fancy suits. F*cks like a beast though.”

That’s the warning about Cristos Vicario that Brielle Dalton receives. But she doesn’t heed the warning.

“Once is chance. Twice if fate.”

And fate is one theme of the book. Brielle’s path crosses with Cristos more than once and he can’t resist the pull to her. Cristos Vicario is a billionaire playboy with a dark side. Hooking up with him is a gamble, bigger than any bet placed on the tables of his casino in Vegas. She’s nothing like he normally goes for. Brielle is an anthropology student working on her Ph.D., temporarily in Vegas as she finishes up her dissertation.

Cristos is the type of man used to getting what he wants and in a lot of stories his type would get the girl with his ways. But Brielle is admirable in her resistance to him, even when she feels the pull between them as much as the reader. And yet Brielle has a ton of patience with a man that won’t break his hard fast rule of kissing. The rule being he doesn’t kiss!

Cristos is demanding, domineering, and temperamental. He’s crafted in a way that makes him more likeable to the reader, and perhaps even vulnerable by the back story of his life, provided at times during his point of view. The alternating first person point of view works well at showing both of their sides. Cristos ways are frustrating to Brielle, but make more sense to the reader given his past and upbringing.

What is Cristos’s big plan for his life? How will Brielle change/interfere with it? Will he ever open up enough to hold onto Brielle or will he lose her, a casualty of his trust issues?

Book one ends on a cliffhanger as this really is a two-part story so plan on reading both books or purchasing the box set.

[Tbird London · Rating 4 out of 5]

I found the title for this series was very appropriate. The female character, while a strong woman determined to fill her dreams and accomplish her goals, found herself in too deep with a bad man. Where her heart was screaming love, her head was begging for common sense which really added an element to this story that I found fascinating.

You will find what is typically seen in books these days, rich mysterious man who takes control and is an alpha, he finds a sweet innocent woman and claims her, but what is different in this one is she isn’t so naïve. She is a college educated woman who is driven by a passion to solve what killed her father. She comes from a law enforcement family, focused on the drug trade from Honduras to the United States.

Brielle lands in Vegas to complete the last few months of research for her dissertation in Anthropology major. She is short on money so along with the research she is going to need to find a job. Still feeling the effects of her father being killed during a drug war raid, she decided to stop the trade with Anthropology, while her brother focuses on finding the killer with his detective work. Trust is an issue for her as she has seen the damage drugs do to the innocent and it breaks her heart when she looks back at the people killed in Honduras.

Cristos is a mysterious man craving his freedom from the family business. Making things right after his father’s death leads him to be the hit man, killer, and much more. He doesn’t commit to any woman, using them once and moving on but when he sees Bri, he is drawn to her. As much as she battles between her heart and head, he battles between wanting to protect and love her and keeping her at arms distance and keeping his secrets safe.

He is the definite take control personality, even in the bed room. His one rule that never wavered is no kissing, it is to intimate of an act. Shielding himself from any chance that Bri will become more to him than he can risk, he leads the sex acts at all times. She questions what he is doing but pretty much accepts that this is him and since she really isn’t ready for that happy ever after with a big house, white picket fence and 2.5 kids, she just goes with the flow when she can and puts the breaks on when she feels the warning is to great. I think unfortunately for her, she realizes late in this book maybe her heart went farther towards Cristos than she had planned.

Book one is really what I would call the foundation book. We get to know Bri rather well and her character is developed in a way that the readers can connect to. Cristos is another situation all together. We have flashbacks from him that give us a hint of what we are dealing with but we are far from understanding him as of yet. The book ends in a cliff hanger and left me wanting to know more. It was pretty clear to me from the beginning that they had crossed paths in the past, but just how intertwined were they? The foreshadowing from the author was pretty predictable yet something in this story leads me to believe we might be in for a bigger shock in book two than what we are expecting. I will say the very end, gave me pause as to how I feel about him and I think the evidence as to why I can’t just write him off as a jerk. There is a real man, shattered and bruised from life and I hope Bri is able to find him in book two.

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was very kindly gifted a copy of In Deep to read and review.

“One of those erotic romance novels that you snuggle under the covers with until 2 am because you just can’t put it down.” Yep, that was me alright. Once I got started on this book it was impossible to not be sucked into the story of Cristos and Brielle and it definitely got deep into my mind and under my skin. This is the first book in the In Deep series and it was a great opener. The story begins with Brielle moving to Las Vegas to finish her thesis and ends up running heart first into local casino owner, Cristos. Both have pasts touched by darkness and pain and both are linked in a way they can’t possibly imagine.

Brielle is the real voice of reason in this book. She’s strong minded and down to earth and although she does has dreams and fantasies she never lets herself get sucked too far into a relationship with a man who is notorious for not believing in such a notion. She also had a really funny streak at times, stating that “I was so going to be Googling him later” made me feel safer knowing I’m not the only person to do things like that, even if she is a fictional character.


“I had blood on my hands day and night, and soon it all ran together in my mind like a river of red, flowing through my own veins and stealing my humanity bit by bit.”

Cristos was a dark mystery and a ball of walking, talking sex on legs from start to finish. Although you do hear his point of view at times in the book there is still a lot unanswered about him by the end of it. The things he has done in his past and present and the very nature of him might make him seem extremely dark to some readers but I fell in love with him. He’s complicated and his inability to trust any single person on the planet was almost as heart wrenching as the snippets of his childhood we get to hear and his feeling unable to ever experience true, honest love. His willingness to do something crazy to tie himself and Brielle together was a great twist in the way it was done. We’ve always seen a woman willing to act like that to tie a man down but hearing it in reverse was actually refreshing to me.

By the time I had reached the end of In Deep I felt like a bit of an emotional wreck. The ending literally left tears streaming down my face and to say that my heart broke for the last glimpse into the past of Cristos that book one gives us just feels like too simple a way to describe the emotion. I loved this book, from the mystery of trying to piece together Cristos and Brielle’s past to the screwed up start to a love story between two broken, wounded hearts it had everything I hoped it would. And the serious case of hot flushes I was very generously provided with made it an even bigger winner. So fair warning, this book will make even the strongest of readers blush! I definitely recommend giving this book a read to anyone that is drawn in by the synopsis and that loves a sexy mystery wrapped in gorgeous alpha male packaging and with a strong minded, down to earth leading lady to admire you won’t be disappointed for picking a copy of this up.

I can’t wait to get started on book two right now, I hope it lives up to this first one. Thank you to Kella McKinnon for a copy of In Deep, I adored it.

[Mindy Bigham · Rating 5 out of 5]

*I received this book free from the author in exchange for an honest review*

Brielle has had a hell of a childhood and has major trust issues, and for good reason. Her father was murdered in Honduras by the drug cartel that he was tracking. The most important thing going on right now is moving to Vegas to finish her dissertation in anthropology. Helping people in her father’s name is her sole mission, until she meets the owner of the hotel….Cristos.

“Wow. That was some serious sex appeal if a man could make me shaky from all the way across a room. I fought the sudden urge to fan myself.”

Cristos Vicario has taken over the family business in his father’s death to make things right. All he really wants is freedom from the devastation that his family has created. Running a hotel in Vegas and a drug cartel can create major trust issues and many enemies. This is why he must live by his own rules.

“Well, I imagine the combination of good looks and tons of money I like crack for some girls.”

I really, really enjoyed reading this book. The title of this book could not be more accurate. This book is very deep, thrilling, emotional, and even heart breaking at times. We get a great deal of back story in this book which would normally drive me crazy as a reader but the way the author explains and brings it in to the present on why the characters are the way they are is very important and needed. The premise of this story is wonderful but is not taken lightly.

The instant chemistry between Cristos and Brielle is electric. Having no idea each other’s past will definitely throw stones in their way but overall sometimes love knows no boundaries. I love the strength that Brielle shows throughout the book. I really enjoyed the alternating POV’s. Overall, I was hooked once I finished the first chapter. This is one of those books where I had a problem stopping to eat and sleep. And to warn you, this book ends on a cliff hanger….

If you enjoy a steamy read with suspense then you definitely need to read this book. Once you are done you will be jumping at the chance to read the second installment In Deeper.

My Favorite Moment: I love how Brielle reacts to the chemistry she instantly feels from Cristos throughout the book.

“My heart wouldn’t slow down, and I was beginning to wonder if there was actually something physically wrong with me. Could you have a heart attack from being too attracted to someone? I needed to Google that later, just in case.”

My Favorite Emotional Moment: I always love when a man can lay it all on the line.

“You made me crave you every second of every day like a goddamned drug, and like a fucking junkie I broke my own rules, jeopardized my life to keep you. You don’t get to do all that and walk away. You don’t.”

[Deb Hanson · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received this book in exchange for an honest review

I was stoked from the very 1st page of this story. Brielle has moved to Las Vegas to finish her PHD desertion in Anthropology. She needs a few weeks there to get it done, and maybe have a little fun. Cause a girls gotta have some fun. While checking things out she heads into the Adagio hotel and casino, thinking this would be the perfect place to hand out her last surveys. Heading in she is struck by a god like man standing right in front of her... With a few minutes of hot stares the man disappears. Brielle heads to the HR department and meets Alexis to ask about doing the survey in the casino.

Brie and Alexis hit it off straight away and soon they become close friends. With an invitation to a charity event in the hotel, Brie comes face to face to THE MAN, one Cristos Vicario - owner of the Adagio. ... and the hotness factor jumps 1000 levels.

At this point we find the story now is told by Criss as well. Brie is warned about Criss, and his playboy ways but his relentless chasing of her. He wants her and what Criss wants Criss gets and he will stop at nothing to have Brie.

Brie tries everything to keep Criss at bay but with his hot sexy eyes and body it is only a matter or time before she gives in. but the thing she doesn't want is to be another notch on his long bed post.

Cristos has a past that he keeps to himself, knowing that Brielle won't want anything to do with him if she finds out. He doesn't kiss on the lips but can give one hell of a sexual experience... This just puts Brie off a little bit more but when their chemistry is to much to deny she gives in to him and they share am incredibly hot night together that is where it should end but for Criss he wants her all the time, maybe forever? no no no!!!

In Criss' pov we are told of what happened to him durng his life and the lead up to the death of his brother asking with the drug running and background of his father. He lead a troubled youth and that has lead to a very firm adulthood. his rules or nothing, but it sends he may have met his match with Brielle. She might just be the one to break down those walls.

I really hope so. I do love both of these characters abs felt an attachment to them from the very beginning. Kella you have done an amazing job with this story and I am very much looking forward to starting book 2

[Michelle Schroer · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 sexy STARS!!!
I'd never read this author... now I want to devour every book she's written! Kella McKinnon is fantabulous!! Her style and flow and character development and...everything about this book was excellent!!

The good stuff? Ohmigosh! Where do I begin?! I won't spoil too much, and in fact only skim the surface. This is a book you MUST read!

Characters... Brie and Cristos, both, exceeded the expectations I deducted from the blurb. They were intriguing, complex, and mysterious. I find that some books have a Hero and heroine who are great together, interacting with dialogue, but fall flat separately. This book was far from that! They could both stand alone and be just as engaging. Brie was a strong and independent woman. A woman who'd been through some pretty awful events in her life and had plans to put that hurt, fear, anger, and helplessness to good use. Brie has big dreams. It was great to see! She wasn't about to be pushed around even if Criss was an incredibly sexy alpha male. And the amazing Criss? He was a casino owner who was sexy and mysterious. A noted play-boy. Never giving the same woman more than one night. Not even 'night'. More like get-in-get-off-get-out. I'm honestly not a huge fan of characters like that. Unless they move me. Move me to an unexpected emotion. And Criss most definitely did!!

So why only 4.5 and not 5 stars? Well if I'm completely honest, I don't know. There were a few characters that I'm sure I'll get more from in book 2, but that didn't stop me from wondering about them. Every. Chapter. I felt Brianna's brother hovering the back of my mind. A looming sense and that, at times made me feel as if I couldn't get the full enjoyment of the book.

The way the story line developed through each of the characters eyes? Terrific! The hints of Cristos's past weaved within? Brilliant! The laugh-out-loud moments I had with Brie's inner monologue? 2-thumbs-up! And the attraction, sexual tension, the heat, the passion, need, lust, and want between them? SCORCHING HOT my friends!! Like pages in flame and melting kindle pieces!!! Read this book. You will not be disappointed!!

And oh yeah! Those words at the beginning of each chapter...I may or may not have highlighted every. single. one!

[Nice and Naughty Book Club · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 STARS
Brielle has just moved to Vegas to finish her P.h.D. in anthropology and plans on helping those communities in Honduras who are affected by drug trade violence when she's all done. The cause is dear to her heart as her father was killed by a drug cartel and his killer has never been found. Making friends on her first day in town with Lexi, she is invited to a cocktail party where she meets Cristos Vicario - owner of the Adagio Hotel & Casino. When she crosses paths with Cristos she has no idea their pasts are already entangled and their future will never be the same.

Cristos Vicario doesn't trust anyone but himself and with good reason. With a history that would break most, Cristos has not only survived but is working on a way to free himself from his past and live a more normal life. In the mean time he refuses to let anyone get too close by living by a set of rules; even his best friend since childhood Manny doesn't know more than the basics about him.

I liked how we learned about Cristos' past with flash backs of his childhood and the loss of his brother as an adult. His character is very intense and his obsession and 'need' to have Brielle is like an addict needing a fix.

"You're so beautiful. So perfect. I don't think there's been a moment since I first saw you that I haven't thought about fucking you. Except when I am fucking you, then I can't think at all."

Brielle is a very likeable heroine, while mainly strong in her morals she seems to also have a weakness when Cristos is too close and she can't think straight.

I smiled and squeezed his hand where it lay in my lap. "I think you're the jealous type, Mr Vicario."

He squeezed back with a soft smile. "I am now."

My heart faltered. God, this man could take me from dizzying hope to painful desolation with each new word or action.

Overall the two books are full of an all-consuming, intense relationship that pushes the boundaries of trust and forgiveness. It's quick paced and suspenseful with some action thrown in as well. Definitely worth the read!!!

[Stephanie Lasley · Rating 4 out of 5]

Brielle (Brie) Dalton is spending a few months in Vegas. While she is there, she is invited to a cocktail party. Little does she know, attending this party will change her life forever. Whether it’s a positive or negative change remains to be seen.
Soon after arriving she meets Cristos (Criss) Vicario. He is the owner of the Grand Adagio Hotel & Casino. Criss is absolutely the most gorgeous man Brie has ever laid eyes on. He is sexy beyond belief, extremely confident and wildly charming. She is instantly drawn to him. Quickly Brie is warned by several women of Criss’s horrid reputation. Essentially he is the king of the “one night stands”. When Criss asks Brie to meet him later she turns him down. The next day she confronts him about the rumors and she was shocked by his bluntness. Not only did he confirm every word she heard was true, he seemed pleased she knew.
After a week of playing hard to get, Brie succumbs to his charms. Instead of feeling triumphant after their wild evening together Criss felt intoxicated by his need for more.
This love story is far from ordinary. Immediately their relationship becomes insatiable, explosive and addictive. It doesn't take a psychiatrist to see how unhealthy their union is becoming. Brie witnesses his mood swings increasing. She knows he is hiding something big. He is so closed off and secretive about so many things. All she wants to do is help, but he won’t let her in his heart.
Throughout this story you see glimpses into Criss’s hideous childhood which explains so much. Will Brie’s compassion be his undoing or will it save him.
The answers lie in book two, In Deeper. Lucky for us, it’s already published.

Stephanie Lasley, from The Kindle Book Review
The Kindle Book Review received a free copy of this book for an independent, fair, and honest review. We are not associated with the author or Amazon.

[Brandi Reeves-Pearson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed reading this book for several different reasons.
First the characters. Let's start off with Brielle. I absolutely loved her. She's very independent, outgoing, and has her mind set on her career. She's focused on getting everything she has ever wanted and it was refreshing to read about her. She isn't a push over, and isn't afraid to speak her mind in getting what she wants. I also like that she doesn't do drama. No one likes to read a book where the character always finds herself having to deal with cattiness. Brielle turns the other way and runs far away from it. When she meets Cristos, well that's a different story. Cristos is 100% alpha male! He's demanding and gets what he wants at any cost. Cristos is one fine piece to read about and I fell in love with him immediately! He also has his demons, and trust issues, but who can blame him? When the two start "dating", I did not want to stop reading about them. I kept telling myself just one more chapter, but ended up reading this within a day.
Secondly, I loved the way the author wrote this book. It wasn't overly written, just straight to the point. It didn't have things you really didn't need to know. I loved how Kella explained the characters, almost if they were real, you would know them just by looking at them.
Third, this first book does have a HUGE cliffhanger. But don't worry, its well worth it. It ended suddenly, but at the same time it ended where it needed to. I feel if Kella had wrote more on the first book, it wouldn't have been as good. Sometimes ending suddenly will make the book better. I am excited to read the second book, and I highly recommend everyone should read this series. I enjoyed every second with reading this book, and I will buy/get any other book written by this author!

[Z ~ The Diary of Book Enthusiasts · Rating 3 out of 5]

In Deep didn’t get me immediately hooked, but it intrigued me as I read on. The prologue is very telling, which lessened the anticipation for me because I knew what I was looking for, what I should prepare myself for. It made the book a little predictable.

Brielle’s POV is a little dragging at times, and I am still deciding on whether I like her or not. She didn’t made an impression on me. Sometimes she really confused me in an irritating way. I also didn’t understand why she didn’t put up too much fight when Cristos forced her to move to Adagio. For a woman who was sending off the I’m-an-independent-woman-and-I-can-take-care-of-myself vibes, she really gave up too easily in that.

Cristos’s POV, on the other hand, is really interesting. His story is what really intrigued me the most. He has serious issues, and some of them are a little too twisted. I liked it more that the reasons for his puzzling behavior are slowly unveiled, as opposed to one big revelation.

While reading this book I had a sense of déjà vu (of Fifty Shades of Grey) too many times. Some moments felt like I was back in the world of Fifty Shades, and this is another thing I can’t decide if I like it or not.

I’m not fond of the climax. It’s not much of a climax at all. It felt weird, considering the rising action of the story. I would have liked to see more.

Overall, I like the story, the plot (although it’s a little dragging at times), and the twists. I am not fond of the characters, the climax and the way In Deep ended (though I think I can forgive the author for that since this is a series. You’ll have to read the book to know what I’m talking about).


*Complimentary copy provided for an honest review
~ Zee

[Janice · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very intense book!

This is the first book that I have ever read by Ms. McKinnon and I have to say that I liked it. I was afraid that this was going to be a much darker read when I first started it. This read came about from a Goodreads link, so I had no prior knowledge of what the book was about or how the author writes.

Christos Vicario knows that life is short, that people die for all kinds of reasons, and some even die by his hand. He is somewhat messed up in the head, but he is working toward one goal (which we will have to figure out as we go along). When he meets Briellle, everything changes and he ends up dragging her into his dangerous life and now everything is one the line.

When we meet Brie, she had just arrived in Los Vegas to complete her dissertation for her grad work and has her whole life planned out. Brie is a stong, independent and intelligent woman with a positive attitude, even with all the pain and suffering she has lived with. She sees Criss and is fascinated with him, but is warned that he is bad news and she should stay away from him. However, it seems that Fate has much different plans, with neither of them aware that their paths have crossed before.

Criss is a sexy playboy with a mysterious life. He doesn't let anyone in and is seldom seen with the same woman - he is more of a wham-bam-thank-you-ma'am kinda guy, which makes him one of those characters that would be very easy to hate. However, despite his womanizing ways, his story was written in such a way that it makes him very lovable. At heart, he is a hurt little boy that has never really known love and compassion. Can her love give him the freedom that he is seeking or will his secrets destroy them.

**Complimentary Copy provided by Author for an honest review.**

[Lorena Tucholke · Rating 4 out of 5]

Una copia de este libro me fue entregada por la autora a cambio de una reseña

La verdad le doy 4 estrellitas....

A los dos libros me los leí muy rápido porque siempre había algo más que necesitaba saber, la autora supo explicar creo que desde raíz porque aveces los hombres malos también tienen alguien que los ame. Cristos Vicario es como la encarnación de un hombre 50 % malo 50 % bueno, quizás lo malo en realidad son las acciones que lo llevan a ser bueno, en fin el motivo final de todo es algo bueno, mas allá de que quizás el camino a eso es algo complicado.
Bielle Dalton, es por suerte una mujer que sabe que en la vida hay que aprovechar las cosas como se te presentan, hay que vivir el hoy y el ahora porque quizás ya no haya un mañana, es una mujer de buen corazón pero no es una princesita a la que se tenga que andar tratando con pinzas, eso gusta, porque mas allá de las lagrimas ocasionales y con motivo que pudo haber soltado durante el libro no se la paso lloriqueando por todos los rincones.

Nunca había leído algo de esta autora, así que por eso me sorprendió un poco lo bien desarrollada la historia sin tener que meterse en descripciones que enredan todo, es una mezcla de romanticismo con acción, y el malo no siendo en realidad tan malo.

Sorprendió mucho las acciones de Cristos para asegurarse de que Brielle fuera siempre parte de su vida, creo que nunca había escuchado que un hombre hiciera eso, normalmente sería algo muy asociado a una mujer, pero también entendí que aveces puede suceder, no es la mejor de las decisiones, pero entiendo el justificativo final, así que en definitiva muy contenta con este libro, va con la serie en si que fue muy fácil de empezar y terminar.

Lo recomiendo!!!

[Lindsey · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was gifted a copy of this book in exchange for MNP.

Brielle was only in Las Vegas to finish her PhD . She only needed to do a little more research and ask a few questions before she was done. But then he came into the picture. Brielle tried hard to stay focused and not fall for this dangerous man, but it was to late. After having dinner a few times she finally gave in. Cristo couldn't get enough. He was only trying to protect himself and her. They didn't know that they had crossed paths that fateful day. But they both knew there was no one else for either one of them. Brielle still needed to be independent, which her older brother had thought her do growing up. Her brother lives not to far and doesn't have a clue about what his little sister is doing. Brie is almost done with her paper when Cristo moves her to the hotel into her own safe suite. She is still fighting for her freedom. She only wants what he can never give her because of his rules. Rules that he created for a reason. But Brie is going to have to decide if she can live with his rules and his past or if she will leave for good.

This was an awesome beginning to Brie and Criss story. They both are fighting for what they think is right. Cristo knows who Brielle is but she doesn't know his past or what he does for a living. Brielle is independent and driven. She knows that she wants to do good in her life and Cristo wants his past to leave him alone. Both are from small families and are trying to make it in the world. I love how the author included a quote before each chapered. In a way, if helps to set the tone for the next chapter. Looking forward to diving into the next story to find out what happens next. Lindsey, reviewer for MNP.

[Meghan · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love the way both books are written, but as this is the first in the two part series I will bring it up here. Often as readers we wonder, or at least I do, what the other character is thinking of the actions or events taking place, here Kella gives us that gift! Every few scenes it changes to the other main character and we see what they saw, felt, did, etc.

During the book I fell in love with how strong the characters were all developed. I felt like Brielle's big brother was the one we all wanted to have, that the new best friend was the ideal best friend (Welcoming, invited her to events, gave her advice about guys, etc.) I also found my love/hate for Cristos was almost immediate. I mean good looking billionaire, yes please, but then when his character starts developing and we see some of his activities and behavior..ehhh not so much. Now with that being said though, I adored the interactions and by-plays between Brielle and Cristos. You can see through Kella's writing how intense they both are, how strong and independent they both are, but how much they both care (even if they don't want to) about each other.

The ending of this book will leave you screaming either outloud for those of us who emote externally or internally with a big NO, which also answers a question that is alluded to throughout the book. It also left me on a love note with Cristos. (I am a sap what can I say) It also left me immediately turning to the next book in the series (need for immediate gratification?)

full review (including the 2 book in the series) @ www.meghanvarner.blogspot.com

[1-Click Addict Support Group · Rating 4 out of 5]

In Deep takes place in Sin City, and there is enough sexual tension in this book to melt your panties off.

When Brielle comes to Las Vegas to finish her PHD dissertation, she doesn’t expect to find love. Her father was killed five years earlier by a drug cartel, and she is hoping that her research will help other victims.

Cristos is the son of the former and current leaders of the drug cartel. He is an alpha male who gets what he wants…and what he wants is Brielle. He thinks that, like with all women, once will be enough.

“I had a lot of rules: no intoxication, no mercy… the list went on. And then there was another set just for f*cking. No relationships, no kissing. Just f*cking. One f*ck per woman, no repeats. That way no one would get too close.”

These two have a sexual tension that could melt panties off a nun. Criss won’t kiss Brielle because it is too personal, and he has been burned in the past. Just holding back that one simple act is enough to ratchet up the tension between these two to new heights.

“Men think they have all the power, but if you’ll notice, ‘Pussy-whipped’ is a commonly used term. I’ve never once heard ‘c*ck-whipped’ used to describe any woman.”

I really liked this book, and was so glad I got the chance to read a book from a new author!

Just a quote I thought was funny:

I started to giggle. “Only in Vegas would a girl even have to consider choosing between a billionaire and a male stripper.” ~ Devlynn, 4 stars

[Krista Gervais · Rating 3 out of 5]

My review is going to be the same for both books (In Deep & In Deeper) as they go closely together and it was just one continuous story.

If you like a TOTAL alpha male and a lot of sex..you'll probably like this. Unfortunately for me it was a TAD too much. It kind of reminded me of Fifty shades (without the whips and chains). Posessive, mysterious, rich, hot, domineering alpha male and the pushover girl.
It was trying to be portrayed that Brie was tough and stood up for herself but more often than not she let Criss push her around and control her life.

That being said, the books still captivated me. I still kept going back to read a bit more whenever I had a minute. ( I just rolled my eyes at some parts when Brie was being a total doormat...and skimmed when they were having sex for the 1200th time).

There was a lot of back and forth like they're together then broken up together broken up but still I kept going back for more and needed to see how things played out.

I liked the side characters in the book and I did enjoy that there was some parts from Criss' POV although I kinda of wished for more.

The last chunk of the second book makes up for a lot of the downfall. I liked the ending. Criss could be super sweet so sometimes was hard to stay mad at him when he was being an asshole lol.

Overall it wasn't my favorite book but I did like it. May even read them again.

I received this book in exchange for an honest review-Thank you Kella!