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Skeleton Island #2
Killer Remains
It started out as hate at first sight.
As Skeleton Island’s resident cetacean expert, Dr. Xanthe Lazos is dedicated to saving the critically endangered Southern Resident Orca population. The latest threat to the island’s fragile ecosystem comes in the form of a proposed luxury oceanfront resort, and a self-made millionaire behind it who becomes her nemesis. But fate keeps pushing them together, forcing her to view him in a different light. Except her work has made her a target. When the looming threat against her ignites, the man she swore to hate steps up to protect her.
Now they have to rely on each other to stay alive.
Blaine Slater never expected to fall for a woman like Xanthe. She’s done everything in her power to defeat his current project and made it clear she loathes everything he stands for. They’re polar opposites in almost every way, yet he’s never been this drawn to anyone, even as she forces him to open his eyes and rethink his own biases. When someone tries to kill her, he’ll stop at nothing to keep her safe. But it’s not just her in the crosshairs. They soon find themselves trapped in a fight for their lives while battling feelings neither of them ever saw coming.
As Skeleton Island’s resident cetacean expert, Dr. Xanthe Lazos is dedicated to saving the critically endangered Southern Resident Orca population. The latest threat to the island’s fragile ecosystem comes in the form of a proposed luxury oceanfront resort, and a self-made millionaire behind it who becomes her nemesis. But fate keeps pushing them together, forcing her to view him in a different light. Except her work has made her a target. When the looming threat against her ignites, the man she swore to hate steps up to protect her.
Now they have to rely on each other to stay alive.
Blaine Slater never expected to fall for a woman like Xanthe. She’s done everything in her power to defeat his current project and made it clear she loathes everything he stands for. They’re polar opposites in almost every way, yet he’s never been this drawn to anyone, even as she forces him to open his eyes and rethink his own biases. When someone tries to kill her, he’ll stop at nothing to keep her safe. But it’s not just her in the crosshairs. They soon find themselves trapped in a fight for their lives while battling feelings neither of them ever saw coming.
340 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 26, 2026
About the author
Kaylea Cross
103 books1,817 followersNew York Times and USA Today Bestselling author Kaylea Cross writes edge-of-your-seat military romantic suspense. Her work has won many awards, including the Daphne du Maurier, HOLT Medallion, and the National Readers Choice Awards. A former Registered Massage Therapist, Kaylea holds a BA in anthropology and history from UBC, and a MSc in Human Bioarchaeology and Paleopathology from Durham University. She’s also an avid gardener, artist, baker, osteology geek, novice rower, history buff, humpback whale enthusiast, and former nationally-carded softball pitcher. She lives in Vancouver, BC with her husband and rescue pets.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
August 2, 2026
I don't think Kaylea Cross has ever written a heroine that I took an instant dislike to. Xanthe just rubs me the wrong way with just about everything she does and her attitude toward the hero. Well, it's going to be a long way from enemies to lovers for this duo. I didn't really like Xanthe and fought that all the way through the book. Yeah, she is passionate about her research with the Orcas and yeah, she is adamant in her opposition to the development Blaine is involved with, but she doesn't even want to try and negotiate with the developers. AT ALL. She really has blinders on when it comes to the project.
Poor Blaine. I really felt for the guy. He is the finance guy for the development, wealthy, but reasonable. Too bad he fell into instant lust with Xanthe. He deserved better. He was former military intelligence but wasn't too smart when it came to Xanthe. When some of her beloved Orcas were in danger, Blaine stepped up and Xanthe finally stopped seeing him as the bad guy.
Poor Blaine. I really felt for the guy. He is the finance guy for the development, wealthy, but reasonable. Too bad he fell into instant lust with Xanthe. He deserved better. He was former military intelligence but wasn't too smart when it came to Xanthe. When some of her beloved Orcas were in danger, Blaine stepped up and Xanthe finally stopped seeing him as the bad guy.
Review of advance copy received from Author
KILLER REMAINS by KAYLEA CROSS
Killer Remains is the second (#2) book in the SKELETON ISLAND series.
Dr Xanthe Lagos is Skeleton Island’s resident cetacean expert. Dedicating herself to saving the islands Southern Resident Orca population, Xanthe will do everything in her power to protect them.
When a proposal for a new luxury oceanfront resort is unexpectedly passed, Xanthe is determined not to let the projects CFO, self made millionaire, and her arch enemy Blaine Slater win.
But as circumstances draw the pair together and the two become acquainted, Blaine slowly starts to erode her walls, and when her life is threatened he will do everything in his power to keep her safe….
——————————
I am absolutely LOVING this new series from Kaylea! 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
Skeleton Island is the home of plenty of shady characters and shenanigans and I’m here for it. Kaylea’s descriptions of the island and the area bring it to life in the readers mind in such a way that you can picture every scene, every detail. The island is a character all of its own.
Xanthe is a strong willed, determined and well thought out heroine and Blaine is well suited to her. They fit.
The premise of the book drew me in and I was hooked immediately. Kaylea writes really easy to read stories, intelligent and educational, and the pages seem to turn themselves.
There is another story seemingly threaded through the book and I’m loving it. There are also teases towards probable future books with some great side characters that you want to learn more about.
Now I can’t tell you who/what /why (no spoilers here), but one particular event in the book actually made me cry. Ugly tears. Get the tissues at the ready! Kaylea’s clear interest in and knowledge of Humpback Whales shines through her writing.
Kaylea’s villians are truly vile and she writes heart racing, angst inducing ‘baddie’ scenes.
There are a couple of open door, spicy scenes but they are tastefully written and not superfluous.
I read an ebook version of this book, with approximately 340 pages, an extremely attractive cover (by Sweet ‘N’ Spicy Designs) and great editing I highly recommend this delightful book. Release date is 26th May 2026.
With thanks to Kaylea Cross for an early read of this book. All comments are my own honest, unbiased opinion.
🐋 Enemies To Lovers
🐋 Close Proximity
🐋 Spicy Scenes
🐋 Millionaire
🐋 Opposites Attract
Killer Remains is the second (#2) book in the SKELETON ISLAND series.
Dr Xanthe Lagos is Skeleton Island’s resident cetacean expert. Dedicating herself to saving the islands Southern Resident Orca population, Xanthe will do everything in her power to protect them.
When a proposal for a new luxury oceanfront resort is unexpectedly passed, Xanthe is determined not to let the projects CFO, self made millionaire, and her arch enemy Blaine Slater win.
But as circumstances draw the pair together and the two become acquainted, Blaine slowly starts to erode her walls, and when her life is threatened he will do everything in his power to keep her safe….
——————————
I am absolutely LOVING this new series from Kaylea! 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
Skeleton Island is the home of plenty of shady characters and shenanigans and I’m here for it. Kaylea’s descriptions of the island and the area bring it to life in the readers mind in such a way that you can picture every scene, every detail. The island is a character all of its own.
Xanthe is a strong willed, determined and well thought out heroine and Blaine is well suited to her. They fit.
The premise of the book drew me in and I was hooked immediately. Kaylea writes really easy to read stories, intelligent and educational, and the pages seem to turn themselves.
There is another story seemingly threaded through the book and I’m loving it. There are also teases towards probable future books with some great side characters that you want to learn more about.
Now I can’t tell you who/what /why (no spoilers here), but one particular event in the book actually made me cry. Ugly tears. Get the tissues at the ready! Kaylea’s clear interest in and knowledge of Humpback Whales shines through her writing.
Kaylea’s villians are truly vile and she writes heart racing, angst inducing ‘baddie’ scenes.
There are a couple of open door, spicy scenes but they are tastefully written and not superfluous.
I read an ebook version of this book, with approximately 340 pages, an extremely attractive cover (by Sweet ‘N’ Spicy Designs) and great editing I highly recommend this delightful book. Release date is 26th May 2026.
With thanks to Kaylea Cross for an early read of this book. All comments are my own honest, unbiased opinion.
🐋 Enemies To Lovers
🐋 Close Proximity
🐋 Spicy Scenes
🐋 Millionaire
🐋 Opposites Attract
Review of advance copy received from Author
We are back in Skeleton Island where a developer is planning a luxury resort. Something that marine biologist Xanthe Lazos, her research team as well as many on the island, are very much opposed to.
Not only because it will affect the ecosystem around the island, but will also affect the orca population. The very group Xanthe has dedicated her professional life in saving.
Blaine Slater is that developer. A former Marine and self made millionaire, he and his investors see this place as a worthwhile investment and money producer.
The moment these two opponents meet sparks fly. As Xanthe shows Blaine the damage that can occur to the ecology and the orcas, and he sees anad experiences it for himself what is a big possibility of further destruction, he is willing to make changes so they all win.
But that move puts Xanthe in the line of fire as someone is determine to kill her.
Will Blaine be able to keep her safe? Who is behind the danger?
The story grabs the readers from the first page on. Not only is the plot engaging, but also the main characters, who are complex and likable .
The author manages to open the eyes of readers on some real life situations. Progress is great, but one must not forget the ecology and the animals that will be affected by it.
This was another winner in the series.
I was entrusted a copy of this book . The opinions expressed are solely my own
Not only because it will affect the ecosystem around the island, but will also affect the orca population. The very group Xanthe has dedicated her professional life in saving.
Blaine Slater is that developer. A former Marine and self made millionaire, he and his investors see this place as a worthwhile investment and money producer.
The moment these two opponents meet sparks fly. As Xanthe shows Blaine the damage that can occur to the ecology and the orcas, and he sees anad experiences it for himself what is a big possibility of further destruction, he is willing to make changes so they all win.
But that move puts Xanthe in the line of fire as someone is determine to kill her.
Will Blaine be able to keep her safe? Who is behind the danger?
The story grabs the readers from the first page on. Not only is the plot engaging, but also the main characters, who are complex and likable .
The author manages to open the eyes of readers on some real life situations. Progress is great, but one must not forget the ecology and the animals that will be affected by it.
This was another winner in the series.
I was entrusted a copy of this book . The opinions expressed are solely my own
June 8, 2026
I’m a long-time fan of romantic suspense books and Kaylea Cross. She writes edge-of-your-seat romantic thrillers I can’t seem to stop devouring. She’s on the short list of authors I 1-click without reading a blurb. She’s back with her second book in an all-new series with Killer Remains. While it can absolutely be read as a stand-alone title, I always recommend reading her books in order. The experience is always richer and engrossing when you do. I’ve yet to find a book of hers I don’t highly recommend, so it’s always worth the investment in time and hard-earned dollars.
Set on an island in the Pacific Northwest, this book is suspenseful and emotional. I’m usually not a big fan of the miscommunication trope, but for Xanthe and Blaine, it’s such a crucial part of their story that the author makes it interesting more than frustrating. Plus, as a long-time fan, I trusted where she was taking the characters and the plot, and as usual, I was not disappointed. The story’s pacing isn’t as hard and fast as some of her previous books, but it ebbs and flows well as any entertaining romantic suspense should. And as usual, I couldn’t walk away from this story until I finished. It's just one more reason in a long (back)list of reasons that Kaylea Cross is a top favorite of mine!
NICUnurse’s Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐✶ (4.5 stars)
Set on an island in the Pacific Northwest, this book is suspenseful and emotional. I’m usually not a big fan of the miscommunication trope, but for Xanthe and Blaine, it’s such a crucial part of their story that the author makes it interesting more than frustrating. Plus, as a long-time fan, I trusted where she was taking the characters and the plot, and as usual, I was not disappointed. The story’s pacing isn’t as hard and fast as some of her previous books, but it ebbs and flows well as any entertaining romantic suspense should. And as usual, I couldn’t walk away from this story until I finished. It's just one more reason in a long (back)list of reasons that Kaylea Cross is a top favorite of mine!
NICUnurse’s Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐✶ (4.5 stars)
Review of advance copy received from Author
Killer Remains delivers suspense, romance, rivalry, family, and ultimately love in a story packed with emotion and danger. Blaine and Xanthe “hate” each other… or do they? Beneath the tension and constant clashes is a strong attraction, while assumptions and misunderstandings continue to muddy the waters between them.
Skeleton Island has already seen more chaos than it can handle, but with a new development threatening the Orca population, even more danger looms. The story beautifully captures both the love and pain experienced by these incredible mammals, creating moments that truly tug at your heart.
As Blaine and Xanthe begin to look beyond the surface, things become deeper, more emotional, and far more dangerous for them both. Blaine’s guarded secrets add extra weight to the story, bringing heavy emotions and vulnerability into the mix. When they finally weather the storm together, their connection feels heartfelt and rewarding, making their coming together something you genuinely cheer for.
The danger never lets up, keeping the tension high and the stakes intense, especially as the story builds toward a betrayal that cuts deep. Through it all, love and friendship remain steady at the heart of the story.
Skeleton Island has already seen more chaos than it can handle, but with a new development threatening the Orca population, even more danger looms. The story beautifully captures both the love and pain experienced by these incredible mammals, creating moments that truly tug at your heart.
As Blaine and Xanthe begin to look beyond the surface, things become deeper, more emotional, and far more dangerous for them both. Blaine’s guarded secrets add extra weight to the story, bringing heavy emotions and vulnerability into the mix. When they finally weather the storm together, their connection feels heartfelt and rewarding, making their coming together something you genuinely cheer for.
The danger never lets up, keeping the tension high and the stakes intense, especially as the story builds toward a betrayal that cuts deep. Through it all, love and friendship remain steady at the heart of the story.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I love a good enemies to lovers story and Killer Remains was a great one! It's the second installment in the Skeleton Island series and begins right after Mortal Remains, the first book in the series. Dr. Xanthe Lazos has been informed that developer Blaine Slater and his investment partners have bought the land that her research facility is located on and plans to tear it down and build a resort and golf course. This will destroy the local ecosystem in her opinion and she plans on doing everything that she can to keep that from happening. As they get to know each other better, they both start to realize that the other isn't a bad person and that they each have important ideas and hopes for Skeleton Island and it's residents. The closer Blaine and Xanthe get, the more danger they seem to find themselves in! The twists and turns kept me glued to the pages and knowing whose book is coming next, I can't wait for it to release! Killer Remains was a perfect romantic suspense story. It's told from multiple POVs and was loaded with action, a bit of angst, twists, laughter and heat! Do yourself a huge favor and start this series today because you won't regret it!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I have just finished the ARC of Killer Remains.
For a small Island it certainly has a lot of fireworks both good and bad .The good is the relationship of the main characters,kaylea Cross knows how to portray the strong ,independent and kick ass female heroine who can handle every situation she finds herself in.The H in this story is not afraid to go up against a powerful man,who has secrets and is trying to protect H from them .You can walk through the building of a hot and heavy relationship that covers subjects that people can find hard to read ,please watch out for triggers.The relationship develops in to a very strong respectful relationship built on trust and understanding, kaylea Cross has a gift for showing the reader how a strong woman can still be independent but also allow others to take care of her.This book covers mental health issues sensitively.This book is well written and keeps you invested from the beginning to the last two words The End.
For a small Island it certainly has a lot of fireworks both good and bad .The good is the relationship of the main characters,kaylea Cross knows how to portray the strong ,independent and kick ass female heroine who can handle every situation she finds herself in.The H in this story is not afraid to go up against a powerful man,who has secrets and is trying to protect H from them .You can walk through the building of a hot and heavy relationship that covers subjects that people can find hard to read ,please watch out for triggers.The relationship develops in to a very strong respectful relationship built on trust and understanding, kaylea Cross has a gift for showing the reader how a strong woman can still be independent but also allow others to take care of her.This book covers mental health issues sensitively.This book is well written and keeps you invested from the beginning to the last two words The End.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Xanthe & Blaine
A nice long story of angst and suspenseful goodness!
I loved every bit of this story, from the scientific marine biology to the mental challenges adults face.
It was interesting to learn how sea life can be tracked and monitored to help them survive and flourish. Unfortunately, people like Don and his “buddies” are more common than we know. Thy swallow up our beautiful coastlines and put profit over natural beauty without a care of who or what they hurt in the process.
I enjoyed Xanthe and Blaine’s journey along with the help of Mae, Willow and Tripp. It wasn’t an easy journey, but it was eventful!
With a name like Skeleton Island, one would think of a bunch of rocks and sand in the middle of the ocean, but this author paints a colorful picture of pure beauty, with gorgeous beaches, plentiful marine life, rugged coastlines, and a beautiful rainforest.
Love this!
A nice long story of angst and suspenseful goodness!
I loved every bit of this story, from the scientific marine biology to the mental challenges adults face.
It was interesting to learn how sea life can be tracked and monitored to help them survive and flourish. Unfortunately, people like Don and his “buddies” are more common than we know. Thy swallow up our beautiful coastlines and put profit over natural beauty without a care of who or what they hurt in the process.
I enjoyed Xanthe and Blaine’s journey along with the help of Mae, Willow and Tripp. It wasn’t an easy journey, but it was eventful!
With a name like Skeleton Island, one would think of a bunch of rocks and sand in the middle of the ocean, but this author paints a colorful picture of pure beauty, with gorgeous beaches, plentiful marine life, rugged coastlines, and a beautiful rainforest.
Love this!
May 27, 2026
Killer Remains is book No.2 in this new series, and as usual Kaylea Cross delivers the goods! Suspense, passion, plot twists, genuinely interesting facts and subject matter (if you love whales, you'll love this one!) included in an action packed storyline. I always read Kaylea's books with a sort of movie reel version playing in my minds eyes. They are that good! Blaine and Xanthe are cute - in both their "hate" and ultimately LOVE for each other, and there is of course RUFUS and his super cute POV included again. Cannot get enough of Rufus and look forward to getting more of him in the next instalment. He holds the biggest secret of the entire series after all!
I've purposely kept the actual plot out of this review as I don't want to give any spoilers away. But my review is a solid 5 stars - this is another great series to sink your teeth into and I highly recommend. The only problem is having to wait for the next one once you finish!!
I've purposely kept the actual plot out of this review as I don't want to give any spoilers away. But my review is a solid 5 stars - this is another great series to sink your teeth into and I highly recommend. The only problem is having to wait for the next one once you finish!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Killer Remains☠️
Another fantastic story by Kaylea🙌 This story focuses on the passionate and determined cetacean expert, Dr. Xanthe Lazos, who goes against the wealthy self-made millionaire Blaine Slater when he purchases land upon which their research facility is built, in order to tear it all down for a proposed luxury resort to bring in “more income” for the island.
Well, as you can imagine, their meeting does not go well at all and it is a hate relationship from the word go. Xanthe is determined to block the purchase but soon discovers that Blaine has hidden facets when her life is endangered. This one is an enemy to lovers story and hit all the spots for me❣️ Loved the glimpses of the Orcas that Xanthe looks after with her research🐳
I received an advanced copy and voluntarily leave my my honest review and I’m eagerly awaiting the next book🥰
Another fantastic story by Kaylea🙌 This story focuses on the passionate and determined cetacean expert, Dr. Xanthe Lazos, who goes against the wealthy self-made millionaire Blaine Slater when he purchases land upon which their research facility is built, in order to tear it all down for a proposed luxury resort to bring in “more income” for the island.
Well, as you can imagine, their meeting does not go well at all and it is a hate relationship from the word go. Xanthe is determined to block the purchase but soon discovers that Blaine has hidden facets when her life is endangered. This one is an enemy to lovers story and hit all the spots for me❣️ Loved the glimpses of the Orcas that Xanthe looks after with her research🐳
I received an advanced copy and voluntarily leave my my honest review and I’m eagerly awaiting the next book🥰
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.5….Another suspenseful read in the intense series. I am really enjoying this series and every character in it. Dr. Xanthe Lazos Is not only dedicated to sea life she specializes in Orcas. When the residents of Skelton Island need to vote on building a luxury resort…she is fighting for it not to happen. Blaine Is behind the resort and is not expecting Xanthe..she is smart, feisty and boy is he smitten. This was definitely not love at first sight…but it definitely goes there..and I was Here for it. These two have sassy banter and perfect chemistry. This is a well layered read with a great story being told. A story about trust, family and everything in between. Of course we get the suspenseful twist and turns that this author brings us every time. I am truly enjoying this series and every character in it. I am already looking forward to reading book three.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Love and hate are emotions that often sit very close together.
Dr Xanthe is determined to stop the redevelopment of Skeleton Island into an oceanfront resort. If the project goes ahead, it will devastate the island’s fragile ecosystem and force the demolition of many homes, including the research centre she works so hard to protect.
Baine Slater, the financial force behind the resort, never expected to meet anyone like Xanthe. She challenges him in ways he never anticipated, and their clash of values sparks an intense and compelling dynamic.
Their story will keep you hooked, drawing you through a range of emotions, while an equally gripping plot unfolds alongside the relationship drama. An absolutely superb read , you will not be disappointed.
Dr Xanthe is determined to stop the redevelopment of Skeleton Island into an oceanfront resort. If the project goes ahead, it will devastate the island’s fragile ecosystem and force the demolition of many homes, including the research centre she works so hard to protect.
Baine Slater, the financial force behind the resort, never expected to meet anyone like Xanthe. She challenges him in ways he never anticipated, and their clash of values sparks an intense and compelling dynamic.
Their story will keep you hooked, drawing you through a range of emotions, while an equally gripping plot unfolds alongside the relationship drama. An absolutely superb read , you will not be disappointed.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Dr. Xanthe Lazos is a cetacean expert and is dedicated to saving the orcas. A resort wants to open up on the land that their research station is located. Blaine Slater is the projects chief financial officer and Xanthe enemy. When a couple of orcas get stranded on the beach, Xanthe sees a different side to Blaine. She sees him as someone she can count on but at first she just wants a casual relationship. But the more time they are together, the more she falls for him. Someone on the island has it out for Xanthe and Blaine helps her through it all.
Second book in this new series. Suspense. Steamy. Secrets. Enemies to lovers. I really enjoyed this book and can’t wait to see what happens next. I am voluntarily reading and reviewing this book for the author.
Second book in this new series. Suspense. Steamy. Secrets. Enemies to lovers. I really enjoyed this book and can’t wait to see what happens next. I am voluntarily reading and reviewing this book for the author.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I loved Killer Remains. Every Kaylea Cross book keeps me on the edge of my seat, she balance the suspense and the romance so well with small town vibes added. Both main characters were great. Xanthe was such a strong, passionate woman who adored her work and fought for what she believed in. Even when she was angry she was still a very kind person and went out of her way to help when she could. Blaine was protective, loving and very loyal. We learn a lot about him and what he’s been through and his protective and loyal nature really shines through with the information we get about him. Xanthe and Blaine had really good chemistry and seeing their relationship progress was so good. I loved seeing some of my favourite characters from book 1 and am super excited to learn more about the mystery plot in book 3!
May 27, 2026
I know when I pick up a book by Kaylea Cross that I am in for a can’t-put-it-down adventure. This second book in this series features Xanthe a researcher who is fighting for the orcas and Blaine who is part of the push for new development on the island. You can imagine the tension between them! I loved how their relationship grew as knowledge and trust grew. The writing is riveting and the descriptions are vivid. Of course, the danger, secrets and twists add to the perfection of the read. I am trying really hard not to give any spoilers but in all seriousness this is a great read! I would say that reading the first book will enhance this one. Definitely a book for any suspenseful romance lover! Can’t wait for the next!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Zanthe, cetacean expert in charge of the island research station and dedicated to saving the Southern Resident orcas has a special love-hate relationship with Blaine, the CFO working with developers on an island investment team wanting to build a resort on Skeleton Island. When Zanthe’s world with the orcas was falling apart around her, imagine her feelings when Blaine was there, supporting her all the way. When these two get into the same room, the result is explosive.
The love between the orcas was very descriptive and amazing. Ms. Cross made you feel as if you were there with Zanthe and Blaine during this difficult time.
The love between the orcas was very descriptive and amazing. Ms. Cross made you feel as if you were there with Zanthe and Blaine during this difficult time.
Review of advance copy received from Author
We headed back to Skeleton Island in this second installment of the new series. In this one we get more of the clash between whale-loving researcher Xanthe and rich developer Blaine who are locked on opposite sides of a battle over a new development on the island. There are nefarious forces working on the island bringing danger and mystery. While fighting those forces and some other issues as well, Blaine and Xanthe discover they have feelings for each other. Some loss and sadness in this one but also some twists and turns and lots of excitement on the way to a happy ending.
May 4, 2026
I loved Killer Remains. Every Kaylea Cross book keeps me on the edge of my seat, she balance the suspense and the romance so well with small town vibes added. Both main characters were great. Xanthe was such a strong, passionate woman who adored her work and fought for what she believed in. Even when she was angry she was still a very kind person and went out of her way to help when she could. Blaine was protective, loving and very loyal. We learn a lot about him and what he’s been through and his protective and loyal nature really shines through with the information we get about him. Xanthe and Blaine had really good chemistry and seeing their relationship progress was so good. I loved seeing some of my favourite characters from book 1 and am super excited to learn more about the mystery plot in book 3!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Another excellent book in this series and I couldn’t put it down. Although seemingly on opposite sides Xanthe and Blaine had a simmering attraction from the moment they met. This well written story was an emotional read with danger, angst, suspense and of course one hot romance. All the secondary characters including Rufus were stars in their own right as the twists and turns reveal a whole other level of evil and greed. Thanks to Kaylea for the opportunity to read and review her work.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Absolutely must read!!! This book is a emotional rollercoaster! You go from big highs to wishing you could give these characters a hug. And then it starts over again. Kaylea writes in a way that makes you get lost in her world. Dr Xanthe Lazos has to find a way to save her research center and her home from being destroyed by a business man, Blaine Slater. When she is faced with obstacles around every corner, Blaine is the one to help her. Enemies to lovers for sure.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Killer Remains is another great read in the Skeleton Island series. Loved it from the first page to the last. Xanthe and Blaine's story is action packed, steamy, suspenseful, full of romance, and twists and turns. I absolutely adored Xanthe and her convictions. As an animal lover I was on the edge of my seat to see what happened to her beloved whales. A truly great read, Can't wait for the next book!
Read
May 18, 2026Book 2 in Skeleton Island series bring us Blaine and Xanthe story.
What started off as a permit for a new building and a
Dr. Fighting for the permit not to be granted, bring you an unexpected enemies to lovers Story. This story is filled with suspense, danger, family, sadness, a bit of spice and characters that you will fall in love with.
You will also get a sneak peek of what to expect for book 3
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
🌶️🌶️.5
What started off as a permit for a new building and a
Dr. Fighting for the permit not to be granted, bring you an unexpected enemies to lovers Story. This story is filled with suspense, danger, family, sadness, a bit of spice and characters that you will fall in love with.
You will also get a sneak peek of what to expect for book 3
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
🌶️🌶️.5
June 5, 2026
Omg!! That was sooooo not how I thought it would turn out. Betrayal is a bitch!! There's only 1 spot toward the end that I wish was changed a little bit not been a death of a close friend. But it was intense alot trying 2 figure out the clues 2 who and why behind things on the island. It's really sad about those wonderful orca's. I still wish I knew how both her babies kept on dying and if that's why she died like she gave up or if there was alot more 2 it. It was really good!!
June 7, 2026
I enjoyed the book.
However, I do not like the unanswered questions. From the first book, we still do not know who fired the shot that killed the bad guy. From this book, we do not know anything about the submerged submarine. I am guessing we have to read the whole series to find the answer. If all of the books are as good as this one, I really don't mind.
Since the corruption concerning the resort vote was uncovered, why was there not a re-vote?
However, I do not like the unanswered questions. From the first book, we still do not know who fired the shot that killed the bad guy. From this book, we do not know anything about the submerged submarine. I am guessing we have to read the whole series to find the answer. If all of the books are as good as this one, I really don't mind.
Since the corruption concerning the resort vote was uncovered, why was there not a re-vote?
June 16, 2026
Orcas, betrayal, and sweet love!!!!
Xanthe is the expert on whales. She runs a small team that protects, and monitors the health, and habits of the whales. Blaine Slater is a retired marine. He is financing a large fancy resort on Skeleton Island. As Blaine and Xanthe battle over the destruction of her research station and her home a threat begins to take shape against Xanthe. Loved it!!!!!!
Xanthe is the expert on whales. She runs a small team that protects, and monitors the health, and habits of the whales. Blaine Slater is a retired marine. He is financing a large fancy resort on Skeleton Island. As Blaine and Xanthe battle over the destruction of her research station and her home a threat begins to take shape against Xanthe. Loved it!!!!!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Kaylea Cross has one again written a fantastic book. Her newest series, Skeleton Island, started with a bang, and the second book is just as great, fantastic characters with a lot of depth, and intriguing plot with twists, and her usual great writing. This is a book you will want to grab, and plan on staying up late, it’s another hard one to put down.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I loved this book! As always, Kaylea Cross keeps the book pages turning as she gives the reader one adventure after another with a lot of plot twists. Good characters turn bad, joining enemies to create lots of problems. Xanthe and Blaine must learn to trust one another. In the end, they cannot fight their attraction to each other.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. Xanthe and Blaine only meet because they literally fight for opposite sides on the spectrum. With him slowly getting to know her and thereby getting to know the environment she so wholeheartedly tries to protect, they involuntarily draw evil towards theirselves. Another fantastic story in the series.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Blaine and Xanthe’s story wow, from enemies to friends and more. Vividly written, full of action and suspense, great group of friends and co-workers on a beautiful island. Interaction with Orca’s, sad moments and someone is after Xanthe. It is gripping you from the beginning and it does not let loose until the end. It’s tugging at you heartstrings and making you mad. I love this story.
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