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Under the Shadows
Laura Ramirez was loved by everyone. The men all wanted her, yet the women didn't hate her. She was just that type of person that was liked by all...or was she. Laura thought she was meeting her boyfriend in a private location. When she arrived, he wasn't there. And whoever was there sent her fleeing for her life under the shadows of the Costa Rican rain forest.
Lela Charles never imagined that working for the Alexanders would involve traveling out of the country. After breaking up with Jordan Alexander six weeks ago, they are thrown back together to find a missing resort employee or bring back her body. They'll have to put their differences aside to solve the case. But, Lela isn't so sure she can do that when one of Jordan's old flames shows up to help investigate the case.
Lela Charles never imagined that working for the Alexanders would involve traveling out of the country. After breaking up with Jordan Alexander six weeks ago, they are thrown back together to find a missing resort employee or bring back her body. They'll have to put their differences aside to solve the case. But, Lela isn't so sure she can do that when one of Jordan's old flames shows up to help investigate the case.
Paperback
First published January 30, 2015
191 people want to read
About the author
Marla Josephs
11 books33 followersMarla Josephs leads a busy life in Northern California with her husband and children. When everyone in the family isn't working or studying hard they are traveling and playing hard. She is an avid reader, and post reviews of her favorites on a review site with other reviewers, http://thenextgreatreadbookreview.blo...
Now that her kids are older, she is very excited to be able to finally put her writing front and center. She's released several books in her Alexander Ranch series. She also adding to her Reluctant series.
Now that her kids are older, she is very excited to be able to finally put her writing front and center. She's released several books in her Alexander Ranch series. She also adding to her Reluctant series.
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
January 31, 2015
In the latest installment of the “Alexander Ranch” series, narrator Lela and former boyfriend Jordan accompany the rest of the extended Alexander family to investigate a missing-persons case in Costa Rica. As they pursue the investigation, they plunge into a web of attempted murder, cheating lovers, and deceit. Lela and the Alexanders must summon all of their exceptional abilities to crack the case and avoid becoming the latest victims of a maniacal criminal.
While I have enjoyed all of the Alexander Ranch books, I particularly liked “Under the Shadows.” Faster pacing—including gunfights, chases, evil plotting, and pursuit across international borders—and an interesting, exotic location pull the reader into the story. (I finished it in barely over two days.) Lela’s wry observations about life and relationships pepper the dialog, adding a wonderful personal touch to the narrative. And the romantic edge we have come to expect from the series is not lacking. I’ve never visited Costa Rica, but after reading this novel, I think I’d like to—as long as the Alexanders are not there investigating a fresh crime, because they only appear when trouble is afoot.
Overall, a fun, exciting, romantic, read!
While I have enjoyed all of the Alexander Ranch books, I particularly liked “Under the Shadows.” Faster pacing—including gunfights, chases, evil plotting, and pursuit across international borders—and an interesting, exotic location pull the reader into the story. (I finished it in barely over two days.) Lela’s wry observations about life and relationships pepper the dialog, adding a wonderful personal touch to the narrative. And the romantic edge we have come to expect from the series is not lacking. I’ve never visited Costa Rica, but after reading this novel, I think I’d like to—as long as the Alexanders are not there investigating a fresh crime, because they only appear when trouble is afoot.
Overall, a fun, exciting, romantic, read!
March 13, 2015
This thriller takes place in Costa Rica magical resort world. A group of 'not normal' (you will understand if you read it) people are in charge of a disappearance investigation in this hot country. Love and friendship are often the reason for jealousy and everyone know how far jealousy can go.
Marla has been able to build a really nice thriller centered on the investigation of a crime, but she also added romance, supernatural power and twisted relations to this already amazing story. It met my expectations, except, I would say, for the ending that is quite predictable. The story is not too surrealist, it is original in it's way, but it doesn't try to renew the investigation type of book.
It is easy to read, it's captivating and you won't get tired of reading it, you'll even want more! What I appreciated the most is that there is not too much description and it's centered on this action. Nice light detective story.
I got to thank Marla Josephs for this book I received trough Goodreads giveaways.
Marla has been able to build a really nice thriller centered on the investigation of a crime, but she also added romance, supernatural power and twisted relations to this already amazing story. It met my expectations, except, I would say, for the ending that is quite predictable. The story is not too surrealist, it is original in it's way, but it doesn't try to renew the investigation type of book.
It is easy to read, it's captivating and you won't get tired of reading it, you'll even want more! What I appreciated the most is that there is not too much description and it's centered on this action. Nice light detective story.
I got to thank Marla Josephs for this book I received trough Goodreads giveaways.
June 28, 2015
Again, another completely addicting story!! I might even say this was my favorite. Lela and the Alexanders have to go to Costa Rica for an assignment and things get very interesting. Lela is excited to go, but leery also as her and Jordan are no longer together and will have to work together more than they have. Things really get a little uncomfortable when one of Jordan's exs is there to welcome them as well as will be helping with the case. Again I absolutely could not put the book down and damn anyone who asked me to lol. I can't wait to see what happens next.
February 21, 2016
Extraordinary!
I can't get enough of this series of books! The author built up speed from page one and didn't let up. The team goes to Costa Rica to search for a missing woman. During this time some members of the team are caught in the crosshairs of a very dangerous person. The author is brilliant in her descriptions of this wonderful area of the world! Makes you want to sit back and enjoy the view, but who has time? Even the editing errors I found didn't detract me from this exciting story.
I can't get enough of this series of books! The author built up speed from page one and didn't let up. The team goes to Costa Rica to search for a missing woman. During this time some members of the team are caught in the crosshairs of a very dangerous person. The author is brilliant in her descriptions of this wonderful area of the world! Makes you want to sit back and enjoy the view, but who has time? Even the editing errors I found didn't detract me from this exciting story.
December 14, 2017
This series for me is like coming home, I know the family so well! While a standalone novel, it's best enjoyed when the first three have been read. The characters in this story continue their work for Alexander Securities and get to visit the beautiful country of Costa Rica to investigate a missing persons case. This is making Lela and Jordan work together, which is a little delicate since their break up 6 weeks ago. Throw in a woman from Jordan's past that assists in the investigation and there is some definite tension going on. Logan, Grace, Ethan and Shane also are trying to find the missing woman with no leads building up the suspense! During their mission, the visual imagery Marla Josephs writes of the locations that are visited in Costa Rica will tantalize and make it the next vacation destination you want to take. Josephs continues to write intriguing stories with romance, suspense and a touch of supernatural powers sure to keep you coming back for the next installment. Each one makes the investments in the characters that much deeper and want to continue to see what cases the security team will take on next!
With the Costa Rican supporting cast of characters, this narration by DC Cole enabled his talents to be showcased. Delivering an incredible performance, he is able to provide a variety of characters with a flawless Spanish accent. This enhances the narration giving it credibility and draws the listener into the story as if actually there witnessing it all. Perfect for this book, and now can't wait until the next!
With the Costa Rican supporting cast of characters, this narration by DC Cole enabled his talents to be showcased. Delivering an incredible performance, he is able to provide a variety of characters with a flawless Spanish accent. This enhances the narration giving it credibility and draws the listener into the story as if actually there witnessing it all. Perfect for this book, and now can't wait until the next!
October 30, 2018
Awesome Book, Awesome Listen 🎧 I Highly Recommend!
Under the Shadows
An Alexander Ranch Novel, Book 4
By: Marla Josephs
Narrated by: D. C. Cole
Another great adventure with the Alexander Security team. Marla Josephs is not only a talented author and storyteller she knows her way around an investigation and Costa Rica too. She also knows how to capture the readers attention and bring them right in to the story. Very descriptive, terrific scenic details too. “Under the Shadows” has great storylines with some twists and turns. It is a real mixed bag of crime drama, mystery, suspense, romance with a touch of paranormal and more drama for two of the leads, Lela & Jordan! Great descriptive and scenic details Thank you for another great read!!
I listened to the Audio version, as always, DC Cole does a wonderful job performing the voices of all the characters, switching back and forth with ease keeping the story in a perfect flow. He is a natural talent and brings the characters & story to life from the pages to your ears. Thank you for another great listen!!
Under the Shadows
An Alexander Ranch Novel, Book 4
By: Marla Josephs
Narrated by: D. C. Cole
Another great adventure with the Alexander Security team. Marla Josephs is not only a talented author and storyteller she knows her way around an investigation and Costa Rica too. She also knows how to capture the readers attention and bring them right in to the story. Very descriptive, terrific scenic details too. “Under the Shadows” has great storylines with some twists and turns. It is a real mixed bag of crime drama, mystery, suspense, romance with a touch of paranormal and more drama for two of the leads, Lela & Jordan! Great descriptive and scenic details Thank you for another great read!!
I listened to the Audio version, as always, DC Cole does a wonderful job performing the voices of all the characters, switching back and forth with ease keeping the story in a perfect flow. He is a natural talent and brings the characters & story to life from the pages to your ears. Thank you for another great listen!!
December 15, 2017
AUDIOBOOK edition
What an intense story! And hot... even more than the previous ones in the series.
I didn't like Rose from the beginning, talk about desperate, but the ending where we find out who is behind the shootings, my jaw dropped. The whole book is full of twists that made the guessing hard while following the Alexander team along in their quest to find the shooter.
It ends well with Jordan and Lela back together again, for which I am happy. I thought they will never get their heads straightened. When they finally do, the hot scenes are scorching. The rest of the team is there as well, each doing their part in the investigation.
Mr. Cole really enhanced the story with his talented voice, it becomes alive and grabs the listener keeping attention throughout. The characters are defined, accents quite well done and emotions expressed beautifully. His voice gives me butterflies, putting him in my top 5 voices.
What an intense story! And hot... even more than the previous ones in the series.
I didn't like Rose from the beginning, talk about desperate, but the ending where we find out who is behind the shootings, my jaw dropped. The whole book is full of twists that made the guessing hard while following the Alexander team along in their quest to find the shooter.
It ends well with Jordan and Lela back together again, for which I am happy. I thought they will never get their heads straightened. When they finally do, the hot scenes are scorching. The rest of the team is there as well, each doing their part in the investigation.
Mr. Cole really enhanced the story with his talented voice, it becomes alive and grabs the listener keeping attention throughout. The characters are defined, accents quite well done and emotions expressed beautifully. His voice gives me butterflies, putting him in my top 5 voices.
February 21, 2018
I just love a mystery that is actually a mystery and I had did not guess who the culprit.
Are you looking for action? You'll find it here.
How about some romance? You'll get that too.
This is a very interesting world because it's so similar to reality with just enough difference to make it really interesting.
The first scene is Laura and her getting shot, the investigation is the Alexander crew looking into what happened to her, but we barely see her again in the book. It was odd but effective.
This book can be read as a standalone, there is enough explanation that it makes sense on it's own, but there are major spoilers for the earlier books in here so read in order if you plan to read the series.
The narration is excellent, great characters and the delivery is well paced and natural sounding.
I received a free copy of this book from the author and/or narrator and/or publisher and I voluntarily wrote this honest review.
Are you looking for action? You'll find it here.
How about some romance? You'll get that too.
This is a very interesting world because it's so similar to reality with just enough difference to make it really interesting.
The first scene is Laura and her getting shot, the investigation is the Alexander crew looking into what happened to her, but we barely see her again in the book. It was odd but effective.
This book can be read as a standalone, there is enough explanation that it makes sense on it's own, but there are major spoilers for the earlier books in here so read in order if you plan to read the series.
The narration is excellent, great characters and the delivery is well paced and natural sounding.
I received a free copy of this book from the author and/or narrator and/or publisher and I voluntarily wrote this honest review.
January 29, 2018
It’s been 6wks since Lela dumped Jordan and she has accepted a part time job with Alexander Consulting. The newest case is to locate a missing resort worker in Costa Rica. Upon arrival in the country, the team is met by the hotel bus driver and Detective Rosa Sandoval. The woman immediately starts to paw Jordan and Lela is doing her best to act unaffected. Is Jordan moving on? How will this affect Lela’s ability to work with the team? As the team trek through Costa Rica and Nicaragua and question workers at the current resort, as well as the woman’s former employer, they appear to be getting nowhere. That said, the action is fantastic...one of the team is almost poisoned & another is shot, Will they solve this mystery and return home intact or will they leave someone behind? I’m still, and forever will be team Jordan!!! Glad that he got an HEA.
Great book, awesome series and even better narration!!!
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Great book, awesome series and even better narration!!!
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
December 21, 2017
This book was amazing in both writing and narration. This case was definitely the hardest one to guess who did it and I loved the way it turned out. I was constantly going back and forth playing the “who done it” game and the emotions and rage from the guilty party was phenomenal. My only disappointment of this book is that there are no more out there yet for me to read! Great series so far and can’t wait to hear more!
January 14, 2018
Wow, what an exciting, intriguing, sexy mystery! The fourth book in the Alexander Ranch series takes us to exotic locations for their latest investigation. Lela joins the team but is still unsure why they want her there. She plays a major roll in helping them interview friends and coworkers of Laura, who is missing, and believed to be in grave danger. This fascinating investigation takes us to beautiful locations where romantic feelings and gestures bring couples together and jealous actions from others. There are so many thrilling chase scenes, gunfights, and near death experiences.
The closer they get to the truth the more danger they all face. Lela and the team must use all their extraordinary skills to find Laura before it's too late.
DC Cole did an exceptional job narrating. His voice changes and slight nuances gave the slightest actions life. Cole along with Author Marla Josephs effortless way of including minor observations that paint a colorful and complete picture, bring us into this world easily.
This series just gets better and better and I can't wait to see where their investigations take us next!
The closer they get to the truth the more danger they all face. Lela and the team must use all their extraordinary skills to find Laura before it's too late.
DC Cole did an exceptional job narrating. His voice changes and slight nuances gave the slightest actions life. Cole along with Author Marla Josephs effortless way of including minor observations that paint a colorful and complete picture, bring us into this world easily.
This series just gets better and better and I can't wait to see where their investigations take us next!
January 18, 2018
I really love the Alexander Ranch Series, a paranormal romantic suspense. This book is as good as the others in the Series. All characters are beautiful and interesting. Now I want to visit the Costa Rica! The narration by DC Cole is very great, as usual. I can't wait for the next story written by Marla Josephs!
January 5, 2018
Audiobook Review
DC Cole narrator
Excellent and always entertaining listening to DC Cole perform.
Story was entertaining, lots of different characters that kept me on my toes trying to keep up with them all.
DC Cole narrator
Excellent and always entertaining listening to DC Cole perform.
Story was entertaining, lots of different characters that kept me on my toes trying to keep up with them all.
February 21, 2016
Lela Charles is traveling and helping the Alexanders solve a mysterious crime in Costa Rica. Laura Ramirez is in need of help to keep herself alive and that help is the Alexanders and Lela.
I received an advanced copy of this book for an honest review. This is from the Alexander Ranch series.WOW talk about exciting story line.
I received an advanced copy of this book for an honest review. This is from the Alexander Ranch series.WOW talk about exciting story line.
November 14, 2016
I think I liked this one the best of the Alexander books so far. Although I had a pretty good idea who the antagonist was in this book, the twists and turns kept me questioning myself for most of the book. I enjoyed the characters and the story. Great story, will look forward to more Alexander Ranch stories.
March 28, 2015
Best Marla Jacobs book yet....loved it!!! Jordan, quite the caveman in past books, redeemed himself in my opinion!!!
July 12, 2016
Fantastic
This book had me guessing the entire time wondering who did it...Another awesome book in Marla's series of the Alexanders. I Love It...
This book had me guessing the entire time wondering who did it...Another awesome book in Marla's series of the Alexanders. I Love It...
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews