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Intimate Relations #2
Redemption
From bestselling author Kate Douglas comes a breathtaking tale of unraveling secrets, heart-stopping passion, and a love that conquers all...
SECRETS THREATENING TO CONSUME
Lola Monroe knows that appearances can be deceiving—even in the most beautiful of places and angelic of faces. She's seen how the ugliest rumors and lies can destroy women's lives and careers. So when roommate's brother-in-law shows up at Lola's doorstep—unannounced, unassuming, and unbelievably gorgeous—she can't help but wonder if he's hiding something behind that handsome face, that sly smile, and those tempting lips...
PASSION WORTH FIGHTING FOR
A battle-scarred veteran with devilish looks, Ben Lowell has spent his entire life running from his past, his family—and his deepest, darkest secrets. When he meets Lola, he knows in his heart he can trust her with the truth, even if it means baring his soul and losing her forever. Lola wants to help Ben find redemption by reconciling with his family. But when she discovers more skeletons hiding in his closet—and more dangers waiting in the shadows—the powerful love that binds them together could be the one thing that tears them apart...
SECRETS THREATENING TO CONSUME
Lola Monroe knows that appearances can be deceiving—even in the most beautiful of places and angelic of faces. She's seen how the ugliest rumors and lies can destroy women's lives and careers. So when roommate's brother-in-law shows up at Lola's doorstep—unannounced, unassuming, and unbelievably gorgeous—she can't help but wonder if he's hiding something behind that handsome face, that sly smile, and those tempting lips...
PASSION WORTH FIGHTING FOR
A battle-scarred veteran with devilish looks, Ben Lowell has spent his entire life running from his past, his family—and his deepest, darkest secrets. When he meets Lola, he knows in his heart he can trust her with the truth, even if it means baring his soul and losing her forever. Lola wants to help Ben find redemption by reconciling with his family. But when she discovers more skeletons hiding in his closet—and more dangers waiting in the shadows—the powerful love that binds them together could be the one thing that tears them apart...
336 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published December 29, 2015
7 people are currently reading
447 people want to read
About the author
Kate Douglas
162 books837 followersSome people just seem to know they are meant to write, but it can still take a while to figure out exactly what their career will entail. Kate Douglas started out writing radio copy for a country western radio station in 1972, wrote and illustrated an educational cartoon strip for the American Mosquito Control Association for a number of years, was a newspaper reporter for a small town weekly where she covered everything from high school sports to drug busts, and then, in the mid-1980s, decided to write her first romance.
Many submissions and rejections followed.
In 1998, she sold to a small ebook publisher before anyone knew what an ebook was, but it wasn't until 2005, a full twenty years after finishing that first romance, that she signed with a New York publisher.
In January 2006, Kensington Publishing launched their Aphrodisia imprint of erotic romance with Kate's Wolf Tales, a sexy paranormal series about a lost race of shapeshifters. She went on to write 21 novels and novellas in that series, then wrote three other series for Kensington before moving to St. Martin's Press.
She has two series with SMP--The Intimate Relations series complete with three novels and one novella of romantic suspense set in California's wine country, and an erotic paranormal series, Feral Passions, set in California's Trinity Alps.
She is also continuing her Spirit Wild series, the sequel to Wolf Tales, independently.
Kate and her husband of over forty-five years have two adult children and six grandchildren. They live in the small town of Healdsburg, California, in the heart of the beautiful Sonoma County wine country.
www.katedouglas.com and www.katedouglas.com/eroticromance for full chapter excerpts of all of Kate's books.
You can find Kate on Facebook at www.facebook.com/katedouglas.authorpage or on Twitter @wolftales
Many submissions and rejections followed.
In 1998, she sold to a small ebook publisher before anyone knew what an ebook was, but it wasn't until 2005, a full twenty years after finishing that first romance, that she signed with a New York publisher.
In January 2006, Kensington Publishing launched their Aphrodisia imprint of erotic romance with Kate's Wolf Tales, a sexy paranormal series about a lost race of shapeshifters. She went on to write 21 novels and novellas in that series, then wrote three other series for Kensington before moving to St. Martin's Press.
She has two series with SMP--The Intimate Relations series complete with three novels and one novella of romantic suspense set in California's wine country, and an erotic paranormal series, Feral Passions, set in California's Trinity Alps.
She is also continuing her Spirit Wild series, the sequel to Wolf Tales, independently.
Kate and her husband of over forty-five years have two adult children and six grandchildren. They live in the small town of Healdsburg, California, in the heart of the beautiful Sonoma County wine country.
www.katedouglas.com and www.katedouglas.com/eroticromance for full chapter excerpts of all of Kate's books.
You can find Kate on Facebook at www.facebook.com/katedouglas.authorpage or on Twitter @wolftales
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
January 15, 2016
I was sort of looking forward to this book with what we learned of Ben in the last one. I sort of expected to not like him, but he was so different from the stupid kid he was. As a man he was someone you wanted to be around, the sad thing is that Ben never saw that of himself. In fact he had to be smacked upside the head with that fact over and over before it started to even slightly click with him.
Ben and Lola were adorable together, never any doubts that they would make it as a couple. What was great was to see Ben become part of the gang that started with his brother and Kaz, then the sisters. I was glad that Marc was added in, he seemed odd man out at times. I'm really rooting for a Marc and Mandy pairing!
The whole drama of who was after Ben and why was a bit crazy, made more so because who the "bad guy" really was. There are times that it's hard to see people as a bad guy because of the outside package, this was one of those.
Ben and Lola were adorable together, never any doubts that they would make it as a couple. What was great was to see Ben become part of the gang that started with his brother and Kaz, then the sisters. I was glad that Marc was added in, he seemed odd man out at times. I'm really rooting for a Marc and Mandy pairing!
The whole drama of who was after Ben and why was a bit crazy, made more so because who the "bad guy" really was. There are times that it's hard to see people as a bad guy because of the outside package, this was one of those.
January 10, 2016
I know I've read other books by Ms. Douglas - I specifically remember the story with the Colonel and the winery. So I went in expecting to enjoy this book.
I did not. I won't say it was dreadful, but there were large swaths of it, particularly in the early portions of the book, where I felt like pieces of the story were missing. Judging by the description of book 1 in this series, I didn't, since the events of that book appear to take place prior to this one. Maybe I'm wrong, maybe the scenes which are referenced in this book (the brothers going home to see their parents together) actually did happen in the 1st book. Either way, it wasn't in here, and it was incredibly distracting. If you're going to make allusions to the events, show them. Don't just brush it under the carpet.
There were good points to this story, such as the fact that Ben was not afraid to let his guard down and had his breakdowns over everything that happened to him. I liked that she got to be the stronger one emotionally for a good portion of the book.
In the end, at most, I can give this three gargoyles. I will definitely read other books by Ms. Douglas, but I'm not sure I can stomach another one in this series. We shall see.
I did not. I won't say it was dreadful, but there were large swaths of it, particularly in the early portions of the book, where I felt like pieces of the story were missing. Judging by the description of book 1 in this series, I didn't, since the events of that book appear to take place prior to this one. Maybe I'm wrong, maybe the scenes which are referenced in this book (the brothers going home to see their parents together) actually did happen in the 1st book. Either way, it wasn't in here, and it was incredibly distracting. If you're going to make allusions to the events, show them. Don't just brush it under the carpet.
There were good points to this story, such as the fact that Ben was not afraid to let his guard down and had his breakdowns over everything that happened to him. I liked that she got to be the stronger one emotionally for a good portion of the book.
In the end, at most, I can give this three gargoyles. I will definitely read other books by Ms. Douglas, but I'm not sure I can stomach another one in this series. We shall see.
January 17, 2016
Redemption, Kate Douglas
Review from Jeannie Zelos book reviews
Genre: Romance
I enjoyed the first novel in this series but with a couple of reservations about communication between the leads, Kaz and Jake. Then getting into this book, Jake’s brother Ben is thinking about the mistakes Jake and Kaz made in not being open with each other, not telling each other what they were concerned about, and how it led to danger for them. So I guess my reservations were unfounded, and it was part of the set up for this story :-) Sorry Kate, I understand now.
We met Ben at the end of the last book, and he’s such a haunted character. Been running from himself and what he did for the last twenty years, from his guilt at letting Jake down, from his horror at being responsible for the deaths of a mother and son. He joined the Army as soon as the police let him go, before the trial, assuming that because of his age Jake would get off lightly..now he’s horrified to hear what happened, to find out how Jake was abandoned by his parents. Luckily he’s has one stalwart supporter though it all, their childhood friend Marcus ( and I’m hoping he and Mandy are the subjects of book three!)
Ben wants to get to know Jake, is back in the US to finish his service with only a few months left, and gets taken in by the girls, Kaz, Lola and her sister Mandy. They are so warm and openhearted, didn’t have the greatest family lives themselves and have created their own little trio, which recently has widened to include Jake and Marcus and now Ben, and brings in others when they feel they need the support. They just seem to welcome everyone with open arms ( and platefuls of much appreciated home cooking) and its really lovely to read. I’d love friends like that, to be like that.
As soon as Ben sees Lola something stirs for both of them, an attraction that just can’t be ignored and its not long before they’re headlong in a sexy, sensual, steamy romance. Neither has ever felt like this before, but go along with it, trusting in their feelings. There’s some very erotic and heated encounters, much as there was between Kaz and Jake....well written scenes, not the over done, dull, repetitive ones I’ve complained about in other novels recently. It takes more than endless pages of dirty phrases and sex at every possible moment to make a good and sensual book. Sadly I’ve had a clutch of the other sort over the last couple of weeks, not all review books thankfully, some free, some KU so I’ve been able to just delete them. Its great then to get back to an author who knows that it takes more to write a good sex scene, and works to keep the balance of sex and story correct.
Ben’s been serving in some tough areas, and doesn’t realise it but the danger didn’t stay abroad, but has followed him back bringing the girls, Marc and Jake into danger too. It’s well written and kept me guessing who and what was behind it, didn’t get it right but that’s part of the fun, seeing how things tie up together, what I missed in trying to work it out. Of course bringing danger to them all gives Ben even more guilt but Lola, clever and sound thinking Lola, persuades him its not his fault, that its the perpetrators who are to blame. He needs that reassurance, he’s found something to live for in her and Jake, but at times over the past years the guilt has been such that he courted the danger, uncaring of if he died...suicidal thoughts have plagued him too. Lola wants to keep him away from that mind-set.
The story and dangers gather speed, bringing in more people, local cops, FBI, those behind the danger, and ends in another climatic but realistic finale. A great read and well worth the five for me.
Stars: Five, can be read as a standalone but would be better to read the first book to get the full story.
ARC supplied by Netgalley and publishers
Review from Jeannie Zelos book reviews
Genre: Romance
I enjoyed the first novel in this series but with a couple of reservations about communication between the leads, Kaz and Jake. Then getting into this book, Jake’s brother Ben is thinking about the mistakes Jake and Kaz made in not being open with each other, not telling each other what they were concerned about, and how it led to danger for them. So I guess my reservations were unfounded, and it was part of the set up for this story :-) Sorry Kate, I understand now.
We met Ben at the end of the last book, and he’s such a haunted character. Been running from himself and what he did for the last twenty years, from his guilt at letting Jake down, from his horror at being responsible for the deaths of a mother and son. He joined the Army as soon as the police let him go, before the trial, assuming that because of his age Jake would get off lightly..now he’s horrified to hear what happened, to find out how Jake was abandoned by his parents. Luckily he’s has one stalwart supporter though it all, their childhood friend Marcus ( and I’m hoping he and Mandy are the subjects of book three!)
Ben wants to get to know Jake, is back in the US to finish his service with only a few months left, and gets taken in by the girls, Kaz, Lola and her sister Mandy. They are so warm and openhearted, didn’t have the greatest family lives themselves and have created their own little trio, which recently has widened to include Jake and Marcus and now Ben, and brings in others when they feel they need the support. They just seem to welcome everyone with open arms ( and platefuls of much appreciated home cooking) and its really lovely to read. I’d love friends like that, to be like that.
As soon as Ben sees Lola something stirs for both of them, an attraction that just can’t be ignored and its not long before they’re headlong in a sexy, sensual, steamy romance. Neither has ever felt like this before, but go along with it, trusting in their feelings. There’s some very erotic and heated encounters, much as there was between Kaz and Jake....well written scenes, not the over done, dull, repetitive ones I’ve complained about in other novels recently. It takes more than endless pages of dirty phrases and sex at every possible moment to make a good and sensual book. Sadly I’ve had a clutch of the other sort over the last couple of weeks, not all review books thankfully, some free, some KU so I’ve been able to just delete them. Its great then to get back to an author who knows that it takes more to write a good sex scene, and works to keep the balance of sex and story correct.
Ben’s been serving in some tough areas, and doesn’t realise it but the danger didn’t stay abroad, but has followed him back bringing the girls, Marc and Jake into danger too. It’s well written and kept me guessing who and what was behind it, didn’t get it right but that’s part of the fun, seeing how things tie up together, what I missed in trying to work it out. Of course bringing danger to them all gives Ben even more guilt but Lola, clever and sound thinking Lola, persuades him its not his fault, that its the perpetrators who are to blame. He needs that reassurance, he’s found something to live for in her and Jake, but at times over the past years the guilt has been such that he courted the danger, uncaring of if he died...suicidal thoughts have plagued him too. Lola wants to keep him away from that mind-set.
The story and dangers gather speed, bringing in more people, local cops, FBI, those behind the danger, and ends in another climatic but realistic finale. A great read and well worth the five for me.
Stars: Five, can be read as a standalone but would be better to read the first book to get the full story.
ARC supplied by Netgalley and publishers
January 16, 2016
Redemption by Kate Douglas is part of one of the best contemporary romantic suspense series I have read in a long time. This is the kind of story that I believe Kate Douglas excels in writing. It is nothing like her paranormal Wolf Series so if that is what you are looking for when you see her name you will be disappointed. If, however, you are looking for a novel where it is all about the story not just sex to carry a story, you will be as thrilled as I was to read this second book concerning two brothers.
Near the end of book one, Intimate Ben Lowell returns home to make amends to his brother, Jake. For that reason, reading in order would enhance the enjoyment of this one, though not exactly necessary. Now on to Ben predicament. There is now more danger then ever surrounding him. So the suspense is in the menace being found and eliminated before something happens to Ben and loved ones. Along the way, he finds understanding, encouragement, love and a challenge to forgive himself from Lola. Ms. Douglas is right on the mark with these two characters who are wonderful together.
I am delighted that it ends in such a way that another book in this series is possible. I didn’t think so in the beginning since there are only the two siblings but as I read I there is a friend who becomes more prominent so that I hope the series follows through by him getting his own story, or by Lola’s roommate getting her own story. Maybe the two of them together?
Much of this review has been vague intentionally. This is one book to read yourself. Think of a Nora Roberts book with a healthy dose of hotter chemistry. For me, Redemption has everything needed to be a great best seller.
Copy provided by the publisher through Net Galley for an honest review.
Near the end of book one, Intimate Ben Lowell returns home to make amends to his brother, Jake. For that reason, reading in order would enhance the enjoyment of this one, though not exactly necessary. Now on to Ben predicament. There is now more danger then ever surrounding him. So the suspense is in the menace being found and eliminated before something happens to Ben and loved ones. Along the way, he finds understanding, encouragement, love and a challenge to forgive himself from Lola. Ms. Douglas is right on the mark with these two characters who are wonderful together.
I am delighted that it ends in such a way that another book in this series is possible. I didn’t think so in the beginning since there are only the two siblings but as I read I there is a friend who becomes more prominent so that I hope the series follows through by him getting his own story, or by Lola’s roommate getting her own story. Maybe the two of them together?
Much of this review has been vague intentionally. This is one book to read yourself. Think of a Nora Roberts book with a healthy dose of hotter chemistry. For me, Redemption has everything needed to be a great best seller.
Copy provided by the publisher through Net Galley for an honest review.
January 12, 2016
At the end of Intimate, book 1 of the Intimate Series, Jake's brother Ben is introduced and by that point all I could say was that there was nothing appealing to me about him. But that didn't stop me from wanting to know his story.
Wow can this author change ones viewpoint in a mind-blowing and sensitive manner. He character is written as a broken person seeking redemption and as the plot goes on you watch him develop a refined character through love, family and forgiveness.
This book will keep the reader involved in the extremely believable plot with multiple finely developed characters interweaving throughout the storyline. The main characters are Ben and feisty Lola. Lola and her sister Mindy are Kaz's roommates and are key parts to this series.
Once again there is intrigue and lots of exciting danger with lots of twists and turns till you get to the end and feel like you got off a rollercoaster of excitement.
I recommend you read this series and I look forward to I hope the next in series involving Marc and Mandy. Notice how I said hope because I think they belong together but one never knows what an author has up their sleeve.
An ARC copy was gifted in exchange for an honest opinion via Netgalley.
Visit my blog for more reviews: Sportochick's Musings
Wow can this author change ones viewpoint in a mind-blowing and sensitive manner. He character is written as a broken person seeking redemption and as the plot goes on you watch him develop a refined character through love, family and forgiveness.
This book will keep the reader involved in the extremely believable plot with multiple finely developed characters interweaving throughout the storyline. The main characters are Ben and feisty Lola. Lola and her sister Mindy are Kaz's roommates and are key parts to this series.
Once again there is intrigue and lots of exciting danger with lots of twists and turns till you get to the end and feel like you got off a rollercoaster of excitement.
I recommend you read this series and I look forward to I hope the next in series involving Marc and Mandy. Notice how I said hope because I think they belong together but one never knows what an author has up their sleeve.
An ARC copy was gifted in exchange for an honest opinion via Netgalley.
Visit my blog for more reviews: Sportochick's Musings
January 16, 2016
You will need to read the 1st book in the series then you will know who all the characters are. Do you deserve forgiveness even though you destroyed your brother's life? Ben has been away for 20 years and now he is back home and he needs to find out where his brother RJ is. What he hears stuns him as he always thought that RJ was left off without been charged.
Will his brother forgive him and welcome him back? RJ goes by Jake now and he has missed his brother so much. Jake has moved on with his life, he has just rescued his girlfriend from a killer and he is recovering from a gunshot wound and it all goes back to that rainy night 20 years ago.
Ben can't believe that everyone is so accepting of him and that they want him around especially Lola, she makes him believe in himself and he knows that he is so lucky to have found her.
But Ben's past is about to come back again and this time who knows what will happen. Can Ben keep his new family safe or will he disappear again?
Can the FBI get to the bottom of the situation and will Ben be able to move on and leave everything that happened in the past? A great 2nd book in the series. Has it all steamy sex, forgiveness, friendship, murder and new beginnings. It was great meeting new characters and I am certain that the next one is going to be great as well. I received a copy in exchange for an honest review via Netgalley.
Will his brother forgive him and welcome him back? RJ goes by Jake now and he has missed his brother so much. Jake has moved on with his life, he has just rescued his girlfriend from a killer and he is recovering from a gunshot wound and it all goes back to that rainy night 20 years ago.
Ben can't believe that everyone is so accepting of him and that they want him around especially Lola, she makes him believe in himself and he knows that he is so lucky to have found her.
But Ben's past is about to come back again and this time who knows what will happen. Can Ben keep his new family safe or will he disappear again?
Can the FBI get to the bottom of the situation and will Ben be able to move on and leave everything that happened in the past? A great 2nd book in the series. Has it all steamy sex, forgiveness, friendship, murder and new beginnings. It was great meeting new characters and I am certain that the next one is going to be great as well. I received a copy in exchange for an honest review via Netgalley.
July 9, 2021
Ben is a broken war hero returned home from duty to make amends with his little brother whom he has wronged almost 20 years ago. There, he met lola, a woman who can redeem him. But someone wants him dead. He knows too much from his time in Afghanistan serving in the army. Knows all the dirty details. Money laundering, drug dealing. All hell becomes loose when lola is caught up in his web of life. He must decide if he is willing to risk her life or cut her loose.
No matter how hard I tried, I couldn't endear Ben to me. I tried to like him, tried to understand the guilt and grief he has been carrying around for all these years but that still didn't endear him to me. Lola also is a pretty boring character. There was nothing fun about her to counteract Ben's character. As a result, I find their relationship pretty dull.
The story is a bit long and drawn out. I felt the author try to draw it out but there just wasn't enough good content to keep it going. Most of it is centered around the threat to Ben's life. It would have been better if the author had invested more to develop Ben and Lola's relationship. Within couple days of them meeting each other, they were screwing like rabbits.
Now Marcus Reed, I really like the way his character is portrayed - broody, quiet but with firm strength - and I can't wait to read his story. Also I have developed a fondness for ted, the fbi agent. I really wish he can get his own story. I would expect being an fbi agent, his story would have a lot of excitement
No matter how hard I tried, I couldn't endear Ben to me. I tried to like him, tried to understand the guilt and grief he has been carrying around for all these years but that still didn't endear him to me. Lola also is a pretty boring character. There was nothing fun about her to counteract Ben's character. As a result, I find their relationship pretty dull.
The story is a bit long and drawn out. I felt the author try to draw it out but there just wasn't enough good content to keep it going. Most of it is centered around the threat to Ben's life. It would have been better if the author had invested more to develop Ben and Lola's relationship. Within couple days of them meeting each other, they were screwing like rabbits.
Now Marcus Reed, I really like the way his character is portrayed - broody, quiet but with firm strength - and I can't wait to read his story. Also I have developed a fondness for ted, the fbi agent. I really wish he can get his own story. I would expect being an fbi agent, his story would have a lot of excitement
May 14, 2018
Ben let his brother take the blame for the accident that claimed two lives. He's back after twenty years to make it up to his brother Jake. He's able to reunite with his brother only to find he's being followed and targeted and lives may be endangered. Lola is a caretaker, hears Ben's story and is very supportive of him as well as heat sparking between the two. These two connect very early in the story, the rest is about Ben learning to except his new family and circle of friends while trying to keep them alive.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 14, 2017
This was the second story I've read by this author. I really enjoyed getting into this story. The intrigue around the main character and his new found friends was great! The story line continuously moved forward with little to no straying.
Will definitely be looking for more to read by this author!
Will definitely be looking for more to read by this author!
September 7, 2020
Good but has too much sex description.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 23, 2016
3.75 stars--
ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date December 29, 2015
SECRETS THREATENING TO CONSUME
Lola Monroe knows that appearances can be deceiving—even in the most beautiful of places and angelic of faces. She's seen how the ugliest rumors and lies can destroy women's lives and careers. So when roommate's brother-in-law shows up at Lola's doorstep—unannounced, unassuming, and unbelievably gorgeous—she can't help but wonder if he's hiding something behind that handsome face, that sly smile, and those tempting lips...
PASSION WORTH FIGHTING FOR
A battle-scarred veteran with devilish looks, Ben Lowell has spent his entire life running from his past, his family—and his deepest, darkest secrets. When he meets Lola, he knows in his heart he can trust her with the truth, even if it means baring his soul and losing her forever. Lola wants to help Ben find redemption by reconciling with his family. But when she discovers more skeletons hiding in his closet—and more dangers waiting in the shadows—the powerful love that binds them together could be the one thing that tears them apart..
•••••••••••
REVIEW: 3.75 stars---REDEMPTION is the second full length installment in Kate Douglas’s contemporary, adult INTIMATE RELATIONSHIPS romantic, suspense series. This is office manger Lola Monroe, and US army major Ben Lowell’s story line. REDEMPTION can be read as a stand alone but for cohesion and back story I recommend reading the series in order as there is quite a bit of background information revealed in the previous installments. Some of the timeline of REDEMPTION overlaps with the events of INTIMATE. There is also a prequel novella-TANGLED- that can be found in the HOT ALPHAS anthology (May 2015).
Told from dual third person perspectives (Lola and Ben) REDEMPTION focuses on Ben Lowell’s return to civilian life, and the family he left behind twenty years earlier. Ben and his brother RJ aka Jake (INTIMATE #1) haven’t seen one another for close to twenty years and in the ensuing time Ben has lived with so much guilt that it threatens to destroy his life. Ben will discover that everything and everyone he knew has changed, and with it comes the realization that to move forward you have to forget about the past-a past steeped in guilt, heartbreak and the biggest mistake of his life. Enter Lola Monroe-Jake’s fiance’s former roommate- and the woman who would save Ben from himself.
REDEMPTION is a romantic suspense story where Ben’s time in the Middle East follows our hero home to San Francisco and into the lives of the people he loves. The secrets military operations, and possible government involvement find Ben searching for the truth about the attack in Afghanistan that left him for dead, and the continuing attacks at home on US soil. Saying that, there is plenty of background information and history about the time Ben spent in the Middle East, and the possible connections to US Senator back home.
The relationship between Ben and Lola is quick to develop: there is an immediate and visceral attraction between our leading characters one that is sated within hours of introduction. The quick friends to lovers scenario finds Ben and Lola proclaiming their love for one another within a matter of days. The $ex scenes are seductive and intense.
There is a large ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters including Ben’s brother Jake and his fiancé Kaz (INTIMATE #1); Nate and Cassie Dunagan (TANGLED .5); Lola’s roommate/half-sister Mandy Monroe, who may or may not have a thing for Jake’s best friend and IT specialist/ Intimate Jewelry owner Marcus Reed. We are also introduced to several law enforcement officers, agents from the FBI, and the requisite evil that comes with many faces-some familiar and some not. There is plenty of action, mystery, and suspense.
REDEMPTION is an entertaining story line where the intrigue builds throughout the story. There are twists and turns, betrayal and revenge, family and friendship, forgiveness and looking forward towards a happily ever after. The premise is infinitely detailed; the main characters are flirty, friendly and intense; the romance is a quick build to a promise for the future. REDEMPTION is a great read for fans of romantic suspense and family love.
Copy supplied by Netgalley
www.thereadingcafe.com
ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date December 29, 2015
SECRETS THREATENING TO CONSUME
Lola Monroe knows that appearances can be deceiving—even in the most beautiful of places and angelic of faces. She's seen how the ugliest rumors and lies can destroy women's lives and careers. So when roommate's brother-in-law shows up at Lola's doorstep—unannounced, unassuming, and unbelievably gorgeous—she can't help but wonder if he's hiding something behind that handsome face, that sly smile, and those tempting lips...
PASSION WORTH FIGHTING FOR
A battle-scarred veteran with devilish looks, Ben Lowell has spent his entire life running from his past, his family—and his deepest, darkest secrets. When he meets Lola, he knows in his heart he can trust her with the truth, even if it means baring his soul and losing her forever. Lola wants to help Ben find redemption by reconciling with his family. But when she discovers more skeletons hiding in his closet—and more dangers waiting in the shadows—the powerful love that binds them together could be the one thing that tears them apart..
•••••••••••
REVIEW: 3.75 stars---REDEMPTION is the second full length installment in Kate Douglas’s contemporary, adult INTIMATE RELATIONSHIPS romantic, suspense series. This is office manger Lola Monroe, and US army major Ben Lowell’s story line. REDEMPTION can be read as a stand alone but for cohesion and back story I recommend reading the series in order as there is quite a bit of background information revealed in the previous installments. Some of the timeline of REDEMPTION overlaps with the events of INTIMATE. There is also a prequel novella-TANGLED- that can be found in the HOT ALPHAS anthology (May 2015).
Told from dual third person perspectives (Lola and Ben) REDEMPTION focuses on Ben Lowell’s return to civilian life, and the family he left behind twenty years earlier. Ben and his brother RJ aka Jake (INTIMATE #1) haven’t seen one another for close to twenty years and in the ensuing time Ben has lived with so much guilt that it threatens to destroy his life. Ben will discover that everything and everyone he knew has changed, and with it comes the realization that to move forward you have to forget about the past-a past steeped in guilt, heartbreak and the biggest mistake of his life. Enter Lola Monroe-Jake’s fiance’s former roommate- and the woman who would save Ben from himself.
REDEMPTION is a romantic suspense story where Ben’s time in the Middle East follows our hero home to San Francisco and into the lives of the people he loves. The secrets military operations, and possible government involvement find Ben searching for the truth about the attack in Afghanistan that left him for dead, and the continuing attacks at home on US soil. Saying that, there is plenty of background information and history about the time Ben spent in the Middle East, and the possible connections to US Senator back home.
The relationship between Ben and Lola is quick to develop: there is an immediate and visceral attraction between our leading characters one that is sated within hours of introduction. The quick friends to lovers scenario finds Ben and Lola proclaiming their love for one another within a matter of days. The $ex scenes are seductive and intense.
There is a large ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters including Ben’s brother Jake and his fiancé Kaz (INTIMATE #1); Nate and Cassie Dunagan (TANGLED .5); Lola’s roommate/half-sister Mandy Monroe, who may or may not have a thing for Jake’s best friend and IT specialist/ Intimate Jewelry owner Marcus Reed. We are also introduced to several law enforcement officers, agents from the FBI, and the requisite evil that comes with many faces-some familiar and some not. There is plenty of action, mystery, and suspense.
REDEMPTION is an entertaining story line where the intrigue builds throughout the story. There are twists and turns, betrayal and revenge, family and friendship, forgiveness and looking forward towards a happily ever after. The premise is infinitely detailed; the main characters are flirty, friendly and intense; the romance is a quick build to a promise for the future. REDEMPTION is a great read for fans of romantic suspense and family love.
Copy supplied by Netgalley
www.thereadingcafe.com
December 27, 2015
NOTE: Although Redemption can be read as a standalone, I highly recommend reading Intimate first for the best reading experience.
Ben Lowell has been living a nightmare for the last 20 years. After his brother was arrested, Ben didn’t stick around to find out what happened. Instead, he abandoned Jake to whatever his fate may have been, enlisted in the army and disappeared from his life. Now, after a close call in the line of duty, his guilt has overwhelmed him and he is ready to face the man he walked away from to beg his forgiveness and hopefully build a new relationship with him.
As soon as Ben walks through the door at Lola and Mandy’s home, he is struck by the beauty and spirit of Lola Monroe- something that has never happened to him before. He is further mortified by completely breaking down in front of her as he finds out just how badly his choices have come back to haunt his little brother over the last 20 years, but they have a connection from the start that allows him to share the truth with her within hours of meeting for the first time. He is downright stunned when she doesn’t instantly hate him; instead, she tries to convince him that he is worthy of love and forgiveness if for no other reason than he realizes his mistakes and truly wants to make amends.
Lola has had some horrible experiences with men in the past that normally make her very cautious when it comes to the opposite sex, but she can’t deny the pull that she feels toward Ben from the very first time she meets him. This man is a warrior with both physical and emotional scars, but underneath it all he is truly a good person. Add in mouthwatering good looks and a hot streak that comes out in the bedroom and she is happily taking a leap of faith when it comes to Ben. Outside forces threaten everything for them as one of Ben’s past missions is affecting their here and now, but through it all Ben is determined to protect his newfound family even as he battles the guilt of bringing it to their doorstep.
Redemption highlights the power of love and finding forgiveness in the eyes of those who matter the most, regardless of whether they are family by blood or by choice, in the midst of danger and a bit of chaos as they scramble to figure out who wants Ben dead. Jake’s best friend Marc is a bigger part of the story in this second book of the series as he interacts with Ben, Jake and the ladies more frequently, and we get to know a little bit more about what has made him into the man he is today. I am curious to see if Mandy will be his forever or if the author has something different in mind for him.
Ben Lowell has been living a nightmare for the last 20 years. After his brother was arrested, Ben didn’t stick around to find out what happened. Instead, he abandoned Jake to whatever his fate may have been, enlisted in the army and disappeared from his life. Now, after a close call in the line of duty, his guilt has overwhelmed him and he is ready to face the man he walked away from to beg his forgiveness and hopefully build a new relationship with him.
As soon as Ben walks through the door at Lola and Mandy’s home, he is struck by the beauty and spirit of Lola Monroe- something that has never happened to him before. He is further mortified by completely breaking down in front of her as he finds out just how badly his choices have come back to haunt his little brother over the last 20 years, but they have a connection from the start that allows him to share the truth with her within hours of meeting for the first time. He is downright stunned when she doesn’t instantly hate him; instead, she tries to convince him that he is worthy of love and forgiveness if for no other reason than he realizes his mistakes and truly wants to make amends.
Lola has had some horrible experiences with men in the past that normally make her very cautious when it comes to the opposite sex, but she can’t deny the pull that she feels toward Ben from the very first time she meets him. This man is a warrior with both physical and emotional scars, but underneath it all he is truly a good person. Add in mouthwatering good looks and a hot streak that comes out in the bedroom and she is happily taking a leap of faith when it comes to Ben. Outside forces threaten everything for them as one of Ben’s past missions is affecting their here and now, but through it all Ben is determined to protect his newfound family even as he battles the guilt of bringing it to their doorstep.
Redemption highlights the power of love and finding forgiveness in the eyes of those who matter the most, regardless of whether they are family by blood or by choice, in the midst of danger and a bit of chaos as they scramble to figure out who wants Ben dead. Jake’s best friend Marc is a bigger part of the story in this second book of the series as he interacts with Ben, Jake and the ladies more frequently, and we get to know a little bit more about what has made him into the man he is today. I am curious to see if Mandy will be his forever or if the author has something different in mind for him.
January 21, 2016
Lola Monroe knows that appearances can be deceiving, so when her roommate’s brother-in-law shows up unannounced, unassuming and unbelievably gorgeous she can’t help but wonder what he’s hiding in this exciting romantic suspense.
He’s spent his life running but Ben Lowell knows in his heart that he can trust Lola with the truth and the reader can’t help but be pulled into the suspense as the powerful love that binds Ben and Lola together could be the one thing that tears them apart. The chemistry sizzles from every page with some hot and steamy sex scenes but it’s the emotional turmoil that flows from the pages that grips readers by the heart as Ben’s past continues to haunt him on his road to redemption. The plot flows smoothly with a steady to fast pace and full of suspense, excitement, romance and strong, captivating characters that are easily related to as they draw readers into their story.
Spine tingling tension builds as Ben notices that some suspicious characters are following him and with the danger escalating, involving more people and painting targets on everyone that Ben cares about, there’s plenty of pulse pounding excitement to keep everyone on their toes. Unforeseen connections and unexpected twists adds to the intrigue as growing friendships and family ties adds to the emotional intensity of the story and really has the readers becoming caught up in the book as the well written scenes and vivid details bring it all to life.
Kate Douglas knows how to draw the reader in and ensnare them in a web of intrigue, passion and romance keeping them right where she wants them and then gives them a climatic conclusion that is not only believable but makes perfect sense even if the bad guys are a bit insane, and she did just that with Ben and Lola’s story and I can’t wait to read Awakened.
He’s spent his life running but Ben Lowell knows in his heart that he can trust Lola with the truth and the reader can’t help but be pulled into the suspense as the powerful love that binds Ben and Lola together could be the one thing that tears them apart. The chemistry sizzles from every page with some hot and steamy sex scenes but it’s the emotional turmoil that flows from the pages that grips readers by the heart as Ben’s past continues to haunt him on his road to redemption. The plot flows smoothly with a steady to fast pace and full of suspense, excitement, romance and strong, captivating characters that are easily related to as they draw readers into their story.
Spine tingling tension builds as Ben notices that some suspicious characters are following him and with the danger escalating, involving more people and painting targets on everyone that Ben cares about, there’s plenty of pulse pounding excitement to keep everyone on their toes. Unforeseen connections and unexpected twists adds to the intrigue as growing friendships and family ties adds to the emotional intensity of the story and really has the readers becoming caught up in the book as the well written scenes and vivid details bring it all to life.
Kate Douglas knows how to draw the reader in and ensnare them in a web of intrigue, passion and romance keeping them right where she wants them and then gives them a climatic conclusion that is not only believable but makes perfect sense even if the bad guys are a bit insane, and she did just that with Ben and Lola’s story and I can’t wait to read Awakened.
December 31, 2016
“Redemption” by Kate Douglas is the sequel to “Intimate”, and centers on Ben Lowell, who has been fleeing the results of a horrific accident that ruined several lives almost twenty years ago. Finally reconnecting with his younger brother and learning some unpalatable truths, he finds a woman he can trust with his deepest emotions. Unfortunately, redemption usually comes with a price, and this one has already cost far too much and future payments may be made by those who should not be caught in the crossfire.
This erotic romantic suspense picks up immediately after the events in the prior story yet this story can easily be read as a stand-alone story. The unfolding of the events from Ben’s perspective, starting with the horrific accident that caused him to flee, is accompanied by his gradual reconnection with those who give him a reason to change his life. The danger that escalates is from an unexpected source and makes Ben learn that he does need others, and that people are willing to accept him as important in their life, much to his surprise. I love that this story interconnects with the first one, so that I get a chance to see how some things are playing out among the family of the heart as well as those related by blood.
I didn’t feel as connected to these characters as I did to the main characters of “Intimate” and I don’t know if that is because it was difficult to reset my opinion of Ben, but I definitely enjoyed watching him let his walls down and become invested in other people again. This was another enjoyable story in the series and there are several secondary characters who I hope will get their time in the spotlight, so that I get a chance to see how everyone is doing!
A copy of this title was provided to me for review, a version of which was submitted to Night Owl Reviews.
July 18, 2016
Ben’s home had been the U S Army for almost twenty years. Ben had no interaction with his parents or brother in that time. Ben had ruined his, his brothers, and two innocent strangers lives when he was younger. The young mother and her son was the innocent strangers and they died. RJ his brother could no longer compete in the Olympics he already had earned three gold medals. Lola’s sister was Mandy . Lola felt it was her fault Kaz got kidnapped and Jake got shot. Lola had given kaz some disgusting pictures of Kaz that she thought Jake had taken. RJ who used the name of Jake now had lied when Ben had asked him after the car accident as Ben was drunk but he believed as RJ/Jake was a minor he would not get in deep trouble but he was wrong and RJ/Jake had went to jail. When RJ/Jake toke the blame for the accident. Their parents had disowned RJ/Jake but be was welcomed home by his parents. Lola was thirty one and managed a modeling agency. For some reason she was fasinated with Ben. they had talked to RJ/Jake and he did verify Ben was his brother. Kaz was Jake’s girl. Jake and Kaz were coming back the next day. When together again Jake had forgiven Ben. Someone is after Ben and he doesn’t know why. Ben is also attracted to Lola and he wants to get to know her but is worried anyone around him will get hurt.
I liked this story alot. It had a good plot and was written well. I felt Ben had paid for what he did and was so glad Jake had forgiven him. I am also glad Ben forgave himself with Lola’s help. Also that he felt he had finally found a family. There were some hot erotic scenes in this story. I liked the twists and turns in this story . I recommend.
I received an ARC Of this story for an honest review.
I liked this story alot. It had a good plot and was written well. I felt Ben had paid for what he did and was so glad Jake had forgiven him. I am also glad Ben forgave himself with Lola’s help. Also that he felt he had finally found a family. There were some hot erotic scenes in this story. I liked the twists and turns in this story . I recommend.
I received an ARC Of this story for an honest review.
November 17, 2016
Sexual Content: Sensual
Language (Profanity/Slang) Content: None
Violent Content: Minimal
2nd in Intimate Relationships Series
San Francisco, Present time
Ben Lowell left his home town twenty years ago because of an accident he caused. He did not take responsibility, instead he allowed his brother to take the fall. For the past twenty years he has felt the guilt eating away at him and when he was almost killed overseas with the military he felt it was time to face his parents and brother and ask for forgiveness.
While searching for his brother, Jake, he lands on the doorstep of Mandy and Lola Monroe. Once Ben and Lola meet it is instant attraction and trust. He tells her about his past and instead of judging she tells him he must forgive himself and look towards the future.
To Ben's surprise his brother feels the same way. Just when Ben feels like he can make a future with Lola and his brother and friends by his side, the unthinkable happens. Someone from his days overseas puts him and his new "family" in danger. Ben will not runaway again but stay and fight for his new future.
There is instant sizzling sex from the day Lola and Ben meet. Their relationship grows quickly from that point onward. They are a perfect match. Both are strong personalities. Lola is very forgiving which is exactly what Ben needs in his life to help him heal. Ben is very protective of Lola and makes her feels safe since her last boyfriend threatened her.
Ms Douglas knows how to keep the suspense up high and the sex sizzling. Ready for the 3rd installment, Awakened.
-- LINDA
March 22, 2016
Even though this is the second book in a series, it can be read as a stand-alone without any issues. Ben knocks on his brother’s door and wants to make amends. He blamed his brother for something horrific years ago and now wants things to be set right. Lola answers the door and he immediately falls for her from the moment he sees her. It shocks him to his core, but he can’t deny the feelings she brings out.
Lola has had a terrible past with men, but even she can’t deny the attraction between her and Ben. Even though he has done something so awful, she sees the good in him and knows that he has paid a price for those sins. Lola convinces Ben that it is time to let go and move forward.
The author did a great job at redeeming the hero. Not many characters can come back from what was done, but she made me, as the reader, care for Ben and feel terrible for him and the turmoil and guilt he has lived with. Even though he let his brother take the blame all those years ago, he paid a price and went into the military which made him realize he needed to do the right thing. As for the attraction between Ben and Lola, their chemistry and feelings were immediate and so believable and hot. I wanted them together from the first moment and had hoped they could work past their individual issues to be together.
This IS a story about Redemption, love, and moving forward. It’s the kind of story that makes the reader feel along with the characters and not want to put the book down.
*copy provided for review.
Lola has had a terrible past with men, but even she can’t deny the attraction between her and Ben. Even though he has done something so awful, she sees the good in him and knows that he has paid a price for those sins. Lola convinces Ben that it is time to let go and move forward.
The author did a great job at redeeming the hero. Not many characters can come back from what was done, but she made me, as the reader, care for Ben and feel terrible for him and the turmoil and guilt he has lived with. Even though he let his brother take the blame all those years ago, he paid a price and went into the military which made him realize he needed to do the right thing. As for the attraction between Ben and Lola, their chemistry and feelings were immediate and so believable and hot. I wanted them together from the first moment and had hoped they could work past their individual issues to be together.
This IS a story about Redemption, love, and moving forward. It’s the kind of story that makes the reader feel along with the characters and not want to put the book down.
*copy provided for review.
March 29, 2016
I have read plenty of paranormal written by this author so this was a treat to read this one in a different genre. This was also one on my tbr that I scooped on it right away when I got my grubby hands on it. She has you go through a tail spin right away with two brothers that does not end so well but needed to be the bases of much to follow and wrongs to be righted. Lola makes a joking comment to her sister one that unexpectedly will turn out to happen, so door to anticipation has really been opened for the reader also. After Ben leaves his parents house that also did not go well he goes on the hunt for his brother. Been many years but find him he must and soon it will also land him on these two sister's doorstep knocking. When the door is opened Ben will take the reader with him through with you not coming out until the last page if possible. Instant I would say it was for Ben and Lola too especially after a special moment in the back yard. This novel is also after the first one in the series that featured his brother but this one is still I think a stand alone easily followed. She gives it her touch with heat, romance, intrigue that will lead to much danger, with none of that not able to work unless she did not have the characters such as these that brought it all to life. The path their relationship takes really works for them with everyone fast becoming a strong family unit. One thing for sure I would not of thought to read anything other than paranormal from this author but after this one I am anxious for the next one.
January 28, 2016
I know it's the second in the series and even though I didn't read the first one called Intimate this can be read as a standalone. You immediately fall in love with Ben just like Lola does and when Ben knocks on Lola's door looking for his brother he is in love with Lola too. Ben has just gone back to the US to hopefully right a wrong he did to his brother RJ twenty years ago but his brother won't be back until tomorrow so Lola and her sister Mandy ask him to stay and eat. Ben feels extremely comfortable and when his emotions get the best of him he goes in the yard and Lola follows so he tells her what he did years ago. He let his little brother take the blame for drunk driving and taking the lives of a mother and her young son, but Lola doesn't judge she just lets him get it all out. His brother arrives the next day and forgives him and introduces him to his girlfriend Kaz. Ben is finally happy for the first time in forever but people are following him and he wants to know why. He is falling for Lola more and more everyday but the people following him are making him frightened for the girls. This is a really action packed story with just the right amount of romance built in, I would highly recommend it and the author keeps the story moving so you really don't want to take a break.
Reviewed on behalf of Once upon an Alpha
Reviewed on behalf of Once upon an Alpha
January 20, 2016
Ben Lowell was responsible for the death of a mother and her son. He stole a car and hit them when he was joy riding. He let his younger brother take the blame. Twenty years later he wants to find him and apologize. Can Ben find the redemption that he needs? Kate Douglas did a wonderful job. She was able to show that Ben was a good person and that he wanted to own up to his mistakes. He joined the army and escaped his responsibility. He never knew that his brother had been convicted of involuntary manslaughter. As the story unfolded I understood Ben's situation. I saw that his guilt and shame were destroying him. I was shocked at how forgiving his brother, Jake, was. I asked myself if I could be that understanding and the answer was probably not. Lola was a perceptive and intelligent woman. She was drawn to Ben in spite of his poor judgment. She could see the real man. Their love was touching. I was moved by how protective they were of each other. Redemption has it all. There is forgiveness, love, family and unbearable suspense. This story kept me on the edge of my seat. I wanted Ben and Lola to get the HEA that they deserved.
I received a copy of Redemption in exchange for an honest and unscripted review.
I received a copy of Redemption in exchange for an honest and unscripted review.
February 3, 2016
Redemption is the second book in Kate Douglas's series and is a complete standalone. Though I think readers would thoroughly enjoy the first one. In the first book Intimate we know the background of this book right off. We also know the the first chapters, but in the younger brother's POV. With redemption we will get Ben's POV and see just how eat up with guilt he is for all his choices. Lola is his saving grace. She helps him through it. They met when he was looking for his brother Jake and the chemistry was off the charts. I did have a hard time with how quickly they progressed in the first meeting but it wasn't too unbelievable.
This book is full on intrigue, twists and turns. It keeps a reader completely engrossed in the story unable to put it away. Ben is a completely broken man and his hunt for redemption is an emotional one. But things get crazy up when he realizes he is being followed and why. He has to use his skills and training to keep himself and Lola safe. This was a great story, even if it was a little slow in places I enjoyed reading it. I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys a romantic suspense.
This book is full on intrigue, twists and turns. It keeps a reader completely engrossed in the story unable to put it away. Ben is a completely broken man and his hunt for redemption is an emotional one. But things get crazy up when he realizes he is being followed and why. He has to use his skills and training to keep himself and Lola safe. This was a great story, even if it was a little slow in places I enjoyed reading it. I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys a romantic suspense.
January 18, 2016
Marie's Tempting Reads Netgalley ARC Review:
Fast-paced, action-packed, sexy, dangerous, heart melting awesomeness! These come to mind when I think of Redemption by Kate Douglas. This is the second book in her Intimate Relations series and it is more intense and had more steamy, sensual, crackling sex and lots of action going on then in the first one. The characters were so endearing and I absolutely adored them! Lola is a gorgeous woman who knows what danger and ugliness looks like. She is also one heck of a woman! Tough and yet kind, she is the kind of heroine I enjoy reading about. Ben is one sexy beast! I loved his charm, his sex appeal and how sweet and protective he was.
Redemption is the perfect paranormal romance with just about everything you can find in a good book. Its no surprise really, that I had to give this a STEAMY FOUR AND A HALF SHOOTING STARS! Wonderfully written with a TON of romance and HOT sex and lots of suspense and action, this book will blow you away and leave your heart pounding and on the edge of your seat.
Fast-paced, action-packed, sexy, dangerous, heart melting awesomeness! These come to mind when I think of Redemption by Kate Douglas. This is the second book in her Intimate Relations series and it is more intense and had more steamy, sensual, crackling sex and lots of action going on then in the first one. The characters were so endearing and I absolutely adored them! Lola is a gorgeous woman who knows what danger and ugliness looks like. She is also one heck of a woman! Tough and yet kind, she is the kind of heroine I enjoy reading about. Ben is one sexy beast! I loved his charm, his sex appeal and how sweet and protective he was.
Redemption is the perfect paranormal romance with just about everything you can find in a good book. Its no surprise really, that I had to give this a STEAMY FOUR AND A HALF SHOOTING STARS! Wonderfully written with a TON of romance and HOT sex and lots of suspense and action, this book will blow you away and leave your heart pounding and on the edge of your seat.
January 21, 2016
Review will be posted at www.books-n-kisses.com .
NUMBER OF HEARTS: 3 3/4
Redemption picks up where Intimate left off. We got to learn a lot about Ben in book one of this series. But in Redemption we learn a lot more about Ben and his way of thinking. Ben has been battling the demons from his past. But now he has a chance to face those demons and slay them. Ben might be surprised by the reception he gets when he gets home.
I liked this story. It was a great continuation of Ben & Jake’s story. I was happy to see the brothers resolve some of their issues. I also really like Ben and Lola together. While the story line moved very face it was a good journey.
I am looking forward to the next installment into this series.
Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Netgalley & St. Martin's Paperbacks in exchange for an honest review. This review is my own opinion and not a paid review.
NUMBER OF HEARTS: 3 3/4
Redemption picks up where Intimate left off. We got to learn a lot about Ben in book one of this series. But in Redemption we learn a lot more about Ben and his way of thinking. Ben has been battling the demons from his past. But now he has a chance to face those demons and slay them. Ben might be surprised by the reception he gets when he gets home.
I liked this story. It was a great continuation of Ben & Jake’s story. I was happy to see the brothers resolve some of their issues. I also really like Ben and Lola together. While the story line moved very face it was a good journey.
I am looking forward to the next installment into this series.
Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Netgalley & St. Martin's Paperbacks in exchange for an honest review. This review is my own opinion and not a paid review.
May 6, 2016
This is Ben's story and there is so much more to it then redemption. It's also a love story, a mystery to solve and a house full of instant friends. Although broken, he is determined to right his wrongs, he is shocked to discover that his brother already forgave him and was just waiting, wanting to see his brother again. Ben hasn't been a civilian in almost 20 years but with a new lady love & unconditional love of his brother, he learns to forgive himself. No nice words to say about their uncaring parents though.
Actually 3 1/2 * rating, I would have given it 4 stars if there was a little more one-on-one interaction between the brothers since one of the main themes was their broken relationship because of Ben's deceit/desertion but at the same time I liked the fact that it didn't take the whole story for Ben to get his redemption. :)
ARC supplied by Netgalley and publishers
Actually 3 1/2 * rating, I would have given it 4 stars if there was a little more one-on-one interaction between the brothers since one of the main themes was their broken relationship because of Ben's deceit/desertion but at the same time I liked the fact that it didn't take the whole story for Ben to get his redemption. :)
ARC supplied by Netgalley and publishers
January 27, 2016
I like reading Kate's books. She takes you down deep into the story. Of course this becomes an over 18 story. This continues on from her previous book. This goes on from Ben and younger brother Jake and the car accident. Major Spoiler. Ben has come home to settle the air between him and Jake. He meets Lola and is enthralled. Lola turns to jelly when she she sees Ben. He runs outside, she follows and Ben goes over the accident and lets the past start to go. Then someone seems to want to kill him. He worries about Lola and her roommates. This go all action from this point on. Spoilers. There are drugs and knowing what Ben shouldn't know. I liked this story as much as the last story, Intimate. If you like sex and action then you should try this one out. Give it a chance. Don't just let it pass it by. Enjoy reading this story! I have this book for an honest review for NetGalley.
March 8, 2016
Great Book!
This is a great book; this is the second book in the Intimate Relations series by Kate Douglas. Lola Monroe knows that appearances can be deceiving, so when her roommate’s brother-in-law shows up at Lola’s doorstep, she can’t help but wonder what he is hiding. Ben Lowell has spent his entire life running from his past and his family, but when he meets Lola, he knows he can trust her. If you are looking for a great romance with suspense and mystery then you need to read this book. I am looking forward to reading the next book in this series. A Review copy was provided to me in exchange for a fair and honest review. The free book held no determination on my personal review.
This is a great book; this is the second book in the Intimate Relations series by Kate Douglas. Lola Monroe knows that appearances can be deceiving, so when her roommate’s brother-in-law shows up at Lola’s doorstep, she can’t help but wonder what he is hiding. Ben Lowell has spent his entire life running from his past and his family, but when he meets Lola, he knows he can trust her. If you are looking for a great romance with suspense and mystery then you need to read this book. I am looking forward to reading the next book in this series. A Review copy was provided to me in exchange for a fair and honest review. The free book held no determination on my personal review.
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February 6, 2017I thought I would like this book, and perhaps I would at a different time, but I didn't finish it. I read about 3/4 of it, and kept putting off finishing it until I decided to just forget it.
January 25, 2016
Ben has been living with the guilt for the last 20 years and has finally come home to see his brother. Jake is now engaged to Kaz and Ben is introduced to her roommates Lola and Mandy. Ben’s attraction of Lola is instant and as they grow closure strange things keep happening to Ben, why are people following him. I enjoyed the suspense and mystery, the relationship between Ben and Lola moved and super speed and there are some parts that move a bit slow. Overall I enjoyed the book and am looking forward to the next one.
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September 23, 2016to start off with, what i didnt like was how ben didnt take up for jake aka his little brother . At the begining ben accidently ran this woman and this little girl over and jake had to tell the cops it was his fault and that ben wasnt part of it.Now , what i did like. I like that ben and lola had a thing for eachother. In my opinion i think lola and ben are such an amazing couple. I do recommend this to people who loves romance and intense books. This book will keep you on the edge of your seat.
July 14, 2016
This book will make a lot more sense if you read Intimate first. Intimate is Jake and Kaz's story. I was looking forward to reading about Ben, although I was unsure whether I would be able to like him or not. He and Lola seemed to be getting cozy, but he made some serious mistakes when he was younger. I loved this one. Great suspense as well as steamy romance. I ended up liking Ben and rooting for him and Lola.
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