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Bittersweet Cartel #3
Laughing Eyes
Monsters…
They are real.
He was always there.
The darkness hid him well.
He would watch from his safe place, taunting, knowing.
When we moved, he followed, breathing down our necks and chasing us in our dreams.
Saving everyone was impossible. The destruction, heartbreaking.
I wanted to save Anna from a fate that was pre-destined.
No matter what path I took, Nicolas Blanco would outsmart me in order to claim what he believed his.
This was a war where good never stood a chance.
So how do you win a battle that was lost from the very beginning?
Monsters…
They will destroy you.
This book is part of a series:
Little Doll #1
Crimson Desert #2
Laughing Eyes #3
Sofia #4
They are real.
He was always there.
The darkness hid him well.
He would watch from his safe place, taunting, knowing.
When we moved, he followed, breathing down our necks and chasing us in our dreams.
Saving everyone was impossible. The destruction, heartbreaking.
I wanted to save Anna from a fate that was pre-destined.
No matter what path I took, Nicolas Blanco would outsmart me in order to claim what he believed his.
This was a war where good never stood a chance.
So how do you win a battle that was lost from the very beginning?
Monsters…
They will destroy you.
This book is part of a series:
Little Doll #1
Crimson Desert #2
Laughing Eyes #3
Sofia #4
- GenresDark
224 pages, ebook
First published April 13, 2015
9 people are currently reading
186 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
April 13, 2015
I absolutely loved Little Doll and Crimson Desert, they were different, intriguing, the story had me on the very edge of my seat, and I loved the characters so much, that I wanted so much more.
So when I heard about Laughing Eyes, I was stupidly excited!
Laughing Eyes is a new story and character, but it overlaps some of what took place in the other 2 books.
This time it's about Danny, and what happened to him in the past. Something that was hinted at in the other 2 books, but not enough to spoil the story.
Danny and Aiden, are snipers. Extremely well trained, and incredibly good at what they do. They are sent on a secret and life threatening mission.
There is a group that is tearing it's way through Costa Rica and Panama, in the small remote, rural villages, murdering, and destroying everything in it's path. Nothing or nobody is being left safe.
Danny and Aiden are called in to take out the leader, who goes by the name of El Leon (The Lion), a ruthless, heartless man with evil, soul less eyes.
After training to become a nurse, Anna and best friend Luisa decide to become aid workers, and go help out in these villages that have been destroyed, and ripped apart. They didn't quite realise what they were signing up for, and would never forget the sights they have seen.
The 2 snipers find the aid workers, and decide to help out where they can, to protect the volunteers, that are putting their own lives at risk, to help the fallen and destroyed.
It's here that Anna and Danny discover just how much they like each other, seeing a tiny shred of something good, in all the bad that is surrounding them.
The first 70% of this story was absolutely incredible. Seriously, I couldn't put down my e-reader. It was brutal, hard, and shocked the hell out of me. But it was incredibly well written, and an addictive story. I think what I have loved most about this series, is how it hasn't held back on anything. Even if the details are quite brutal. It's another blackened and brutal look at something that isn't all that fictional. But running alongside this, is a love story that is really sweet and natural, not forced or fake.
Now, I had read both the books that came before this one, so I know the events that took place with Danny, Aiden and Layla. The last 30% maybe less, is Danny's take on what happened in Crimson Desert. Which was great, and it's always good to see another POV. But, I think if I hadn't already read what happened in the first 2 books, I would of absolutely loved that part of the story. Yet, as I already knew what happened, it wasn't necessarily as gripping as the main story. I knew the outcome, and I would rather have read more about Danny and his missing years, or his future.
Not to say, it was bad, it wasn't, not at all. It was still incredibly good, and I loved it. I can also see why it was done the way it was, and it was very clever.
I spent a lot of time, literally gripped by this story. I read it one day, and couldn't put it down. From feeling incredibly nervous, and cringing, to extremely ugly crying. This book had me feeling all different emotions, and I loved it.
This series has been such an addictive read. I can't wait to read Sophia's story. That's going to be another gripping story, I can tell.
I can remember thinking how the writing style of Little Doll, had me completely captivated. It was written in such a way, I felt everything within that story. It continued flawlessly in to Crimson Desert, and I'm happy to say Laughing Eyes wasn't the exception. Just as well written, just as addictive.
If you love stories, that are raw, dark, nothing is held back, full of suspense, gripping and edgy, but also has plenty of page melting hot scenes, and dominant alpha Males. This is perfect for you!! Go grab it now!
4.99999999 stars!! (Not sure that is allowed, I'll give it a go ;) there is a reason for the tiny drop, but it's a spoiler, so I can't say why. ;)
**I was given a copy of this book, in exchange for a fair and honest review**
So when I heard about Laughing Eyes, I was stupidly excited!
Laughing Eyes is a new story and character, but it overlaps some of what took place in the other 2 books.
This time it's about Danny, and what happened to him in the past. Something that was hinted at in the other 2 books, but not enough to spoil the story.
Danny and Aiden, are snipers. Extremely well trained, and incredibly good at what they do. They are sent on a secret and life threatening mission.
There is a group that is tearing it's way through Costa Rica and Panama, in the small remote, rural villages, murdering, and destroying everything in it's path. Nothing or nobody is being left safe.
Danny and Aiden are called in to take out the leader, who goes by the name of El Leon (The Lion), a ruthless, heartless man with evil, soul less eyes.
After training to become a nurse, Anna and best friend Luisa decide to become aid workers, and go help out in these villages that have been destroyed, and ripped apart. They didn't quite realise what they were signing up for, and would never forget the sights they have seen.
The 2 snipers find the aid workers, and decide to help out where they can, to protect the volunteers, that are putting their own lives at risk, to help the fallen and destroyed.
It's here that Anna and Danny discover just how much they like each other, seeing a tiny shred of something good, in all the bad that is surrounding them.
The first 70% of this story was absolutely incredible. Seriously, I couldn't put down my e-reader. It was brutal, hard, and shocked the hell out of me. But it was incredibly well written, and an addictive story. I think what I have loved most about this series, is how it hasn't held back on anything. Even if the details are quite brutal. It's another blackened and brutal look at something that isn't all that fictional. But running alongside this, is a love story that is really sweet and natural, not forced or fake.
Now, I had read both the books that came before this one, so I know the events that took place with Danny, Aiden and Layla. The last 30% maybe less, is Danny's take on what happened in Crimson Desert. Which was great, and it's always good to see another POV. But, I think if I hadn't already read what happened in the first 2 books, I would of absolutely loved that part of the story. Yet, as I already knew what happened, it wasn't necessarily as gripping as the main story. I knew the outcome, and I would rather have read more about Danny and his missing years, or his future.
Not to say, it was bad, it wasn't, not at all. It was still incredibly good, and I loved it. I can also see why it was done the way it was, and it was very clever.
I spent a lot of time, literally gripped by this story. I read it one day, and couldn't put it down. From feeling incredibly nervous, and cringing, to extremely ugly crying. This book had me feeling all different emotions, and I loved it.
This series has been such an addictive read. I can't wait to read Sophia's story. That's going to be another gripping story, I can tell.
I can remember thinking how the writing style of Little Doll, had me completely captivated. It was written in such a way, I felt everything within that story. It continued flawlessly in to Crimson Desert, and I'm happy to say Laughing Eyes wasn't the exception. Just as well written, just as addictive.
If you love stories, that are raw, dark, nothing is held back, full of suspense, gripping and edgy, but also has plenty of page melting hot scenes, and dominant alpha Males. This is perfect for you!! Go grab it now!
4.99999999 stars!! (Not sure that is allowed, I'll give it a go ;) there is a reason for the tiny drop, but it's a spoiler, so I can't say why. ;)
**I was given a copy of this book, in exchange for a fair and honest review**
December 22, 2015
First off, this is not a standalone, you need to have read books 1 and 2 first, Little Doll and Crimson Desert. Books 1 and 2 are Aiden and Laila's story, this book is Danny's but the timeline of this story is very much woven into the timelines of books 1 and 2 so if you haven't read them then this book will contain some serious spoilers.
The first half of this book is set before Little Doll takes place, back when Aiden and Danny were still in service and it follows a mission they were placed on out in Panama to hunt down a psychotic, murdering arms dealer known as El Leon. The second half is set at the same time as Crimson Desert, book 2. If you haven't read the first two books then it may seem like the events are a bit jumpy, like the story jumps from one event to another which not much inbetween. But as I said this is not to be read as a standalone so the author no doubt did this to avoid repetition for those who have read the series from the beginning.
I found myself getting a bit choked up at some parts of this story, there are some incredibly sad parts that will just break your heart and Danny is a great character for evoking such empathy. He's a really likeable guy and despite what he does for a living, a highly trained and talented sniper in the US marines, he's very lighthearted at the beginning of this story. He's good humoured and good natured, it's impossible not to fall in love with him a little, so when things go bad you can't help but feel what he feels.
This is shaping up to be a really brilliant series, I'm looking forward to getting stuck in to book 4, Sofia, I definitely feel as though I need some closure after the rollercoaster of emotions in this book!
The first half of this book is set before Little Doll takes place, back when Aiden and Danny were still in service and it follows a mission they were placed on out in Panama to hunt down a psychotic, murdering arms dealer known as El Leon. The second half is set at the same time as Crimson Desert, book 2. If you haven't read the first two books then it may seem like the events are a bit jumpy, like the story jumps from one event to another which not much inbetween. But as I said this is not to be read as a standalone so the author no doubt did this to avoid repetition for those who have read the series from the beginning.
I found myself getting a bit choked up at some parts of this story, there are some incredibly sad parts that will just break your heart and Danny is a great character for evoking such empathy. He's a really likeable guy and despite what he does for a living, a highly trained and talented sniper in the US marines, he's very lighthearted at the beginning of this story. He's good humoured and good natured, it's impossible not to fall in love with him a little, so when things go bad you can't help but feel what he feels.
This is shaping up to be a really brilliant series, I'm looking forward to getting stuck in to book 4, Sofia, I definitely feel as though I need some closure after the rollercoaster of emotions in this book!
April 16, 2015
*Gifted for an honest review – 4 ½ stars
OMG, this almost broke my kindle, seriously the thing almost got launched across my living room! I had to leave it, leave the room, compose myself and then try to continue. Continue I did as by that point in the book I was so inherently hooked there was no way I wasn’t finishing it. If you haven’t read Little Doll and Crimson Desert I strongly suggest that you do as there are quite major spoilers in Laughing Eyes that pertain to Crimson Desert in particular. Those two book in themselves are quite spectacular but this my lovelies is the crème de la crème of the three. You should be prepared for some tough reading, emotional punches and a shed load of alcohol. This one will drive you to drink for sure!
This is different, so very different it’s beautiful despite the content. It is stomach churning in places with its immensely graphic description but in all honesty for Laughing Eyes to pack that punch it really needed to be. I think when an author tackles this kind of genre they have to dive in head first and my word Melissa Jane did just that, quite gloriously so. This is Danny Peter’s story and it’s one of heart break and destruction, there are no rainbows here.
I really liked the background to which this story was set; it was a unique setting for a love story to unfold and Melissa’s descriptive writing pulls the reader into another world, and it’s not a world that many will be able to connect with personally but connect you will. At times I could taste that metallic copperyness in my mouth and honestly felt sick to my stomach a time or two. This really isn’t one that you can read lightly so please be warned.
I can’t give away the story, any spoiler will absolutely ruin this for the reader but holy hell, Melissa Jane did not hold back. She committed author suicide for any reader that can’t cope with the contents of this book but you know what…there are plenty that will lap this up, me included. I can’t get this book out of my head! I tip my hat in all seriousness at what the author has done here and I really hope this book soars as it really deserves it. The only thing that I was slightly disappointed with was the writing, it isn’t terrible but it isn’t the greatest that I have read. I found some cheesy lines and duplication which stood out to me, I had hoped to see a subtle maturity from Crimson Desert but I didn’t. However the writing in no way, shape or form lets this book down.
It’s such a brilliant story that I can overlook it.
Now the cover….I initially loved this cover, the simplicity of the eyes bring it to the readers attention (in fact I really loved all three book cover) but after reading Laughing Eyes I now look at that cover and get the chills, yip, there’s something inherently creepy and sinister about that cover now and I just can’t shake it. That’s a new experience for me. What’s not new is the way I felt while reading, all the emotions were there and heightened by the storyline. I love that an author can pull those from me from mere words on a page. But give me the right story and I’m sucked in to all that it is.
This author needs to be read because honestly her work is fresh and original and very worthy. I’d recommend this but I would also say keep your mind open and make sure you have a hold on your emotions…oh, and a glass of vodka wouldn’t go amiss either!
OMG, this almost broke my kindle, seriously the thing almost got launched across my living room! I had to leave it, leave the room, compose myself and then try to continue. Continue I did as by that point in the book I was so inherently hooked there was no way I wasn’t finishing it. If you haven’t read Little Doll and Crimson Desert I strongly suggest that you do as there are quite major spoilers in Laughing Eyes that pertain to Crimson Desert in particular. Those two book in themselves are quite spectacular but this my lovelies is the crème de la crème of the three. You should be prepared for some tough reading, emotional punches and a shed load of alcohol. This one will drive you to drink for sure!
This is different, so very different it’s beautiful despite the content. It is stomach churning in places with its immensely graphic description but in all honesty for Laughing Eyes to pack that punch it really needed to be. I think when an author tackles this kind of genre they have to dive in head first and my word Melissa Jane did just that, quite gloriously so. This is Danny Peter’s story and it’s one of heart break and destruction, there are no rainbows here.
I really liked the background to which this story was set; it was a unique setting for a love story to unfold and Melissa’s descriptive writing pulls the reader into another world, and it’s not a world that many will be able to connect with personally but connect you will. At times I could taste that metallic copperyness in my mouth and honestly felt sick to my stomach a time or two. This really isn’t one that you can read lightly so please be warned.
I can’t give away the story, any spoiler will absolutely ruin this for the reader but holy hell, Melissa Jane did not hold back. She committed author suicide for any reader that can’t cope with the contents of this book but you know what…there are plenty that will lap this up, me included. I can’t get this book out of my head! I tip my hat in all seriousness at what the author has done here and I really hope this book soars as it really deserves it. The only thing that I was slightly disappointed with was the writing, it isn’t terrible but it isn’t the greatest that I have read. I found some cheesy lines and duplication which stood out to me, I had hoped to see a subtle maturity from Crimson Desert but I didn’t. However the writing in no way, shape or form lets this book down.
It’s such a brilliant story that I can overlook it.
Now the cover….I initially loved this cover, the simplicity of the eyes bring it to the readers attention (in fact I really loved all three book cover) but after reading Laughing Eyes I now look at that cover and get the chills, yip, there’s something inherently creepy and sinister about that cover now and I just can’t shake it. That’s a new experience for me. What’s not new is the way I felt while reading, all the emotions were there and heightened by the storyline. I love that an author can pull those from me from mere words on a page. But give me the right story and I’m sucked in to all that it is.
This author needs to be read because honestly her work is fresh and original and very worthy. I’d recommend this but I would also say keep your mind open and make sure you have a hold on your emotions…oh, and a glass of vodka wouldn’t go amiss either!
April 22, 2015
4 Stars
Laughing Eyes isn't a book for the faint hearted, there's without a doubt no hearts and flowers. But beneath the wreckage is love story that will spark you're emotions in more ways than one.
Melissa Jane was a new author to me at the end of last year, her Bittersweet series had me in knots and I was dying to know more about the side characters, so imagine my surprise when I was gifted an ARC.
Laughing Eyes is Danny's story, prior to the crazy journey that was Aidan and Laila's break for freedom.
Danny and Aidan are the US Marine's best snipers. Contracted out to find and kill El Leon, the man with the ghostly eyes who's behind the brutal murders of hundreds of villagers.
Anna is an aid worker assigned to a war zone to help clean up the devastation left behind by a man of pure evil.
When Danny and Anna meet, there's an instant connection made and a friendship is born. But the more time they spend together, the more they find themselves attracted to each other. As the story starts to unfold, it comes to light that it's not just Danny that has fallen for the beautiful Anna, the monster with the ghostly eyes has become obsessed and will stop at nothing to get his hands on the prize.
I don't know what I was expecting from this, I knew Danny hadn't had it easy and that something BIG had happened in his past but I don't think I expected the outcome we got. It was definitely a shut kindle, breathe and start again moment, but I totally understand why this was done, impact is key after all.
Laughing eyes is the third book in the Bittersweet series, I highly recommend reading the first two books before you dive into this one, because there are spoilers in parts throughout the book that would ruin your reading experience for Little Doll and Crimson Desert.
ARC provided by Author in exchange for an honest review.
Laughing Eyes isn't a book for the faint hearted, there's without a doubt no hearts and flowers. But beneath the wreckage is love story that will spark you're emotions in more ways than one.
Melissa Jane was a new author to me at the end of last year, her Bittersweet series had me in knots and I was dying to know more about the side characters, so imagine my surprise when I was gifted an ARC.
Laughing Eyes is Danny's story, prior to the crazy journey that was Aidan and Laila's break for freedom.
Danny and Aidan are the US Marine's best snipers. Contracted out to find and kill El Leon, the man with the ghostly eyes who's behind the brutal murders of hundreds of villagers.
Anna is an aid worker assigned to a war zone to help clean up the devastation left behind by a man of pure evil.
When Danny and Anna meet, there's an instant connection made and a friendship is born. But the more time they spend together, the more they find themselves attracted to each other. As the story starts to unfold, it comes to light that it's not just Danny that has fallen for the beautiful Anna, the monster with the ghostly eyes has become obsessed and will stop at nothing to get his hands on the prize.
I don't know what I was expecting from this, I knew Danny hadn't had it easy and that something BIG had happened in his past but I don't think I expected the outcome we got. It was definitely a shut kindle, breathe and start again moment, but I totally understand why this was done, impact is key after all.
Laughing eyes is the third book in the Bittersweet series, I highly recommend reading the first two books before you dive into this one, because there are spoilers in parts throughout the book that would ruin your reading experience for Little Doll and Crimson Desert.
ARC provided by Author in exchange for an honest review.
August 2, 2015
~*~ Obsessed by books copy given in exchange for an honest review ~*~
"Fate was not smiling at us from above. It had long since abandoned this hell, leaving two love struck beings to bear the hurt of being torn apart."
This is Danny's story, an intrinsic part of the Bittersweet series, we learn more about the devil on his shoulder and the horror he has witnessed in his past that haunts every moment. Danny and Aiden are elite snipers, truly the best of the best, hand picked to go on an undercover mission. Sent to take out a ruthless weapon manufacturer in Panama, El Leon is systematically wiping out the most vulnerable communities, ruling the area with a bloody fist. Sparing no one, leaving a trail of the dead in his wake El Leon is a scourge on humanity. Anna is a trained nurse who has volunteered to give aid in a war torn country. Providing basic human rights by burying the dead and cleaning up the wounded she is a beacon of hope to the villagers she tries to help.
Danny and Anna's paths cross whilst she is helping and he is hunting. An instant attraction and feelings of trust spring to life between them. Surprised that love can blossom even in the most dire of circumstances their love story unfolds beautifully in amongst the ravages of war. Fraught with danger, they live on their nerves as every day breaks with the certainty of the ongoing dangers they face. El Leon becomes the hunter and our young couple the prey. Tradegy unfolds and the plot line is graphically unremorseful with the dark twists and turns. Explaining why Danny is a tortured soul we discover the key to his pain - he couldn't save the one he loved from a monster.
Snapping back to the events in the first two Bittersweet novels we revisit the events from Danny's POV. I loved the angst and mental anguish Danny experiences as he feels history is repeating itself. Reliving the past males he realise it's time to move on and in stepping up for his friend Aiden it comes full circle. The ending was bittersweet, beautiful and sad all rolled into one. Like the moment the sun breaks through from behind a cloud. This story is an emotional rollercoaster so strap on your big girl panties and prepare to cry ugly. For the evil that men perpetuate on one another simply because they can. For the innocence loss, the pain survived and the love extinguished. This book is gritty and at times grim. Yet interwoven is hope and the premise that good will always triumph in the end although the cost is high.
Another five star knocked my socks off read.
"Fate was not smiling at us from above. It had long since abandoned this hell, leaving two love struck beings to bear the hurt of being torn apart."
This is Danny's story, an intrinsic part of the Bittersweet series, we learn more about the devil on his shoulder and the horror he has witnessed in his past that haunts every moment. Danny and Aiden are elite snipers, truly the best of the best, hand picked to go on an undercover mission. Sent to take out a ruthless weapon manufacturer in Panama, El Leon is systematically wiping out the most vulnerable communities, ruling the area with a bloody fist. Sparing no one, leaving a trail of the dead in his wake El Leon is a scourge on humanity. Anna is a trained nurse who has volunteered to give aid in a war torn country. Providing basic human rights by burying the dead and cleaning up the wounded she is a beacon of hope to the villagers she tries to help.
Danny and Anna's paths cross whilst she is helping and he is hunting. An instant attraction and feelings of trust spring to life between them. Surprised that love can blossom even in the most dire of circumstances their love story unfolds beautifully in amongst the ravages of war. Fraught with danger, they live on their nerves as every day breaks with the certainty of the ongoing dangers they face. El Leon becomes the hunter and our young couple the prey. Tradegy unfolds and the plot line is graphically unremorseful with the dark twists and turns. Explaining why Danny is a tortured soul we discover the key to his pain - he couldn't save the one he loved from a monster.
Snapping back to the events in the first two Bittersweet novels we revisit the events from Danny's POV. I loved the angst and mental anguish Danny experiences as he feels history is repeating itself. Reliving the past males he realise it's time to move on and in stepping up for his friend Aiden it comes full circle. The ending was bittersweet, beautiful and sad all rolled into one. Like the moment the sun breaks through from behind a cloud. This story is an emotional rollercoaster so strap on your big girl panties and prepare to cry ugly. For the evil that men perpetuate on one another simply because they can. For the innocence loss, the pain survived and the love extinguished. This book is gritty and at times grim. Yet interwoven is hope and the premise that good will always triumph in the end although the cost is high.
Another five star knocked my socks off read.
April 18, 2015
MY REVIEW
5 STARS * * * * *
Before I even start I want to say you have got to read Little doll #1 and
Crimson Desert #2 to fully understand Laughing Eyes because there are big spoilers in this from the other two books and in my opinion you really won't understand half of this story if you haven't read the other two books!
This one is Danny Peters' story. Danny *SIGH* We meet him in Little Doll and get more of him in Crimson Desert too, he is Aiden's best friend and plays a big part in their journey to survival. I love Danny since we first meet him he's cocky and cheeky and you can tell immediately there's so much more behind that cocky sexy as sin grin.
This is Danny's story Pre- Laila/juan/Aiden time. We're brought back to when him and Aiden served together and were sent on a special mission to get rid of a whole different kind of evil. They meet some pretty special while they are there and come up against some quite gruesome thins too.
This is a new release so I really don't want to give much away and it's a little hard to review it without giving spoilers away so to give you as I can - this explores Danny, fully, his past and what and why he's where he is now and also the huge vital role in Aiden and Laila's story and we get to see that, we get to see so many of Danny's sides and it's heart breaking really, and it may put your heart back together bit by bit.This one was just as suspenseful as the other two books - more so in my opinion, my heart was in my throat a lot of the time. I'm not going to lie, I got to a certain point in the book and thought to myself "Where can this story actually go from here? like there's no where to go from this point surely..???" Boy was I proven wrong!! Melissa Jane sure knows how to do the perfect mix of tension, love, shock and dark suspense and equally scarily brilliant at creating the perfect balance between good and evil characters that have much depth to them and nothing is ever as it seems. I started to read this in the day and I was so engrossed in the story by the time I finished I was lying in a dark room with a growling stomach. I was not putting that book down for anything!
I cannot wait to see what's next - I'm hooked on Melissa's story's and the emotions she can pull from you while reading - while living in these characters' worlds for just a little while and really hope I get more Danny in my life!
Read
May 10, 2015Let me just say a few things first..... You must first read Little Doll and Crimson Desert before you even think of attempting Laughing Eyes.
Secondly , Laughing Eyed is extremely disturbing.
I very nearly put it down on more than 1 occasion especially with the current Xenophobic situation in my country.
Melissa Jane you are a master at what you do! You are one of those authors that I will one click without battering an eye !
Your writing and characters are phenomenal!
In Laughing Eyes we see more of Danny and his history with Aiden.I must warn you ....you'll need what seems like an endless supply of Kleenex!
This has been a gut wrenching read and just writing the review opens the floodgates again!
Danny and Aiden have seen enough bloodshed to last many life times and my heart will never really recover from the pain Danny had to endure.
I'm eager to get my hands on "Sophia" in July but until then I wish Aiden, Laila, Maria, Jorge and Danny a time to heal and find peace.
A ★★★★★ read
Secondly , Laughing Eyed is extremely disturbing.
I very nearly put it down on more than 1 occasion especially with the current Xenophobic situation in my country.
Melissa Jane you are a master at what you do! You are one of those authors that I will one click without battering an eye !
Your writing and characters are phenomenal!
In Laughing Eyes we see more of Danny and his history with Aiden.I must warn you ....you'll need what seems like an endless supply of Kleenex!
This has been a gut wrenching read and just writing the review opens the floodgates again!
Danny and Aiden have seen enough bloodshed to last many life times and my heart will never really recover from the pain Danny had to endure.
I'm eager to get my hands on "Sophia" in July but until then I wish Aiden, Laila, Maria, Jorge and Danny a time to heal and find peace.
A ★★★★★ read
December 27, 2015
FIVE Stars- I received an ARC for an honest review of Laughing Eyes (Bittersweet Familia #3) by Melissa Jane
Loved the first tow books but this was certainly a favorite! I want to say you have got to read Little doll #1 and Crimson Desert #2 before reading Laughing Eyes. Danny's story is dark and painful to read, at times I was upset and very emotional for what he had to endure and yet I kept reading wanting to know how this would all turn out for him. I fear by giving too much of the story I will ruin it for a reader. Melissa Jane once again out did herself!
Loved the first tow books but this was certainly a favorite! I want to say you have got to read Little doll #1 and Crimson Desert #2 before reading Laughing Eyes. Danny's story is dark and painful to read, at times I was upset and very emotional for what he had to endure and yet I kept reading wanting to know how this would all turn out for him. I fear by giving too much of the story I will ruin it for a reader. Melissa Jane once again out did herself!
October 11, 2016
enjoyed reading the back story of Danny and Aiden.
March 19, 2017
I went into this series thinking it's the same old story but let me tell you each side has a story to tell and a part to play ..... it was actually amazing
July 26, 2015
Laughing Eyes (Bittersweet Familia #3)
By: Melissa Jane
5/5 stars
This series needs to be read in order. This is Danny’s book and the first 60-65% of the book all takes place 4 years prior to book 1, Little Doll. But the last part of this book encompasses the last part of book 1 and most all of book 2 from Danny’s perspective. The book ends after the end of the book 2, allowing us to see just a short amount of time after the end of book 2. I think this may have something to do with book four’s timeline. But I’ve been looking forward to reading Danny’s story since he provided some comic relief in book 1 and was influential for saving lives in book 2. From those books, we know that Danny’s story is fully of heartache/break and sorrow. Since he lives alone & literally has sad, haunted eyes, we know that his story didn’t have an HEA, because he wasn’t living it. Knowing all of this helped, going into this book.
Anna & her best friend are new R.N.s and decided that they wanted to put their new nursing knowledge to work by helping people in their native country who were being annihilated by a sadistic psychopath and who were not being protected or helped out by their own government. But the devastation that was wrought was horrific, extreme & inhuman. Other countries were denied entry to help by the government, so Anna is with a non-profit aid-workers group. The other countries were also not allowed to send military help either.
Danny & Aiden are sent by their commanding officer to search out & kill this monster of a man in an officially unsanctioned black ops mission. They are elite snipers and have the best chance at killing the nemesis and leaving the country without being detected. While they are there & looking for clues to who this man is and where he is from, they run into the aid workers and the first time that Danny sees Anna, he knows that he wants to get to know her more.
Danny & Anna strike up a friendship that eventually leads to more. This part I think the author should have fleshed out more. I didn’t feel like we got to see them learning about each other and falling in love with each other and making plans for the future. I would have liked to have seen this, so that their connection would have been that much stronger. Because it almost felt like they had just started talking & being friends, to they were in love and then they were on the run from the monster who began targeting them.
I still hope that Danny can get an HEA, because he definitely deserves one. The last book in this series, entitled Sofia, is available now and I almost hope that her and Danny end up getting together and finding their HEA in one another.
By: Melissa Jane
5/5 stars
This series needs to be read in order. This is Danny’s book and the first 60-65% of the book all takes place 4 years prior to book 1, Little Doll. But the last part of this book encompasses the last part of book 1 and most all of book 2 from Danny’s perspective. The book ends after the end of the book 2, allowing us to see just a short amount of time after the end of book 2. I think this may have something to do with book four’s timeline. But I’ve been looking forward to reading Danny’s story since he provided some comic relief in book 1 and was influential for saving lives in book 2. From those books, we know that Danny’s story is fully of heartache/break and sorrow. Since he lives alone & literally has sad, haunted eyes, we know that his story didn’t have an HEA, because he wasn’t living it. Knowing all of this helped, going into this book.
Anna & her best friend are new R.N.s and decided that they wanted to put their new nursing knowledge to work by helping people in their native country who were being annihilated by a sadistic psychopath and who were not being protected or helped out by their own government. But the devastation that was wrought was horrific, extreme & inhuman. Other countries were denied entry to help by the government, so Anna is with a non-profit aid-workers group. The other countries were also not allowed to send military help either.
Danny & Aiden are sent by their commanding officer to search out & kill this monster of a man in an officially unsanctioned black ops mission. They are elite snipers and have the best chance at killing the nemesis and leaving the country without being detected. While they are there & looking for clues to who this man is and where he is from, they run into the aid workers and the first time that Danny sees Anna, he knows that he wants to get to know her more.
Danny & Anna strike up a friendship that eventually leads to more. This part I think the author should have fleshed out more. I didn’t feel like we got to see them learning about each other and falling in love with each other and making plans for the future. I would have liked to have seen this, so that their connection would have been that much stronger. Because it almost felt like they had just started talking & being friends, to they were in love and then they were on the run from the monster who began targeting them.
I still hope that Danny can get an HEA, because he definitely deserves one. The last book in this series, entitled Sofia, is available now and I almost hope that her and Danny end up getting together and finding their HEA in one another.
September 15, 2015
This is book 3 of the Bittersweet series and tells the story of Danny prior to the events that occur in books 1 and 2. We already learned that he and Aiden served together in the Marines. We now get his heartbreaking story and fall more in love with the wonderful man. The first 65% of this book is Danny’s back story, but the remainder is an entirely different POV of what occurred in books 1-2 since we see it from Danny’s role behind the scenes.
Danny and Aiden are Marines sent on a top secret mission to Costa Rica to locate and destroy El Leon, a man responsible for killing men, women and children in the surrounding villages. When they arrive, they discover a group of doctors and nurses there who are trying to help with the devastation and injuries left behind by El Leon and his men. Danny has an immediate attraction to one of the nurses Anna, and they quickly form a close friendship. Through the weeks, their friendship becomes more and the two of them make plans for a possible future together. Sadly, they learn that El Leon has also set his sights on Anna and he’s not a man who likes losing.
This is really a good story. I knew going into this book that Danny had suffered loss and I was prepared to not get the happy ending I usually require. However, I’m so very glad I read it because I would have missed seeing this side of Danny and discovering the wonderful man underneath. He and Aiden were sent alone on what most would consider a suicide mission after El Leon, the monster with the beautiful eyes. They are both great men and did what they could considering the circumstances. This was an emotional story, but worth the read.
I’m planning on reading Sofia next, the last book in this series.
Danny and Aiden are Marines sent on a top secret mission to Costa Rica to locate and destroy El Leon, a man responsible for killing men, women and children in the surrounding villages. When they arrive, they discover a group of doctors and nurses there who are trying to help with the devastation and injuries left behind by El Leon and his men. Danny has an immediate attraction to one of the nurses Anna, and they quickly form a close friendship. Through the weeks, their friendship becomes more and the two of them make plans for a possible future together. Sadly, they learn that El Leon has also set his sights on Anna and he’s not a man who likes losing.
This is really a good story. I knew going into this book that Danny had suffered loss and I was prepared to not get the happy ending I usually require. However, I’m so very glad I read it because I would have missed seeing this side of Danny and discovering the wonderful man underneath. He and Aiden were sent alone on what most would consider a suicide mission after El Leon, the monster with the beautiful eyes. They are both great men and did what they could considering the circumstances. This was an emotional story, but worth the read.
I’m planning on reading Sofia next, the last book in this series.
September 28, 2015
This is the 3rd book in the Bittersweet Series.
Anna and her friend are RN's working in Costa Rica helping villages that are being invaded by a mad man known as El Leon.Danny and Aiden are sent on a mission to locate and destroy El Leon and end up meeting Anna and her group.
You can feel an immediate connection between Danny and Anna. As the weeks pass their connection grows and they start discussing their future.
In the mean time Anna always has this feeling like she is being watched, she is finding yellow flowers in places that are causing concern. We also discover that El Leon has become infatuated with Anna. Will Danny and Aiden get Anna and her friend out of the country safely? Or Will El Leon get what he wants?
I have to say that there are some very shocking and ugly cry moments during this read. I love the element of surprise and twists, this makes for a great read.
Well done once again Melissa Jane. Thank you!
Anna and her friend are RN's working in Costa Rica helping villages that are being invaded by a mad man known as El Leon.Danny and Aiden are sent on a mission to locate and destroy El Leon and end up meeting Anna and her group.
You can feel an immediate connection between Danny and Anna. As the weeks pass their connection grows and they start discussing their future.
In the mean time Anna always has this feeling like she is being watched, she is finding yellow flowers in places that are causing concern. We also discover that El Leon has become infatuated with Anna. Will Danny and Aiden get Anna and her friend out of the country safely? Or Will El Leon get what he wants?
I have to say that there are some very shocking and ugly cry moments during this read. I love the element of surprise and twists, this makes for a great read.
Well done once again Melissa Jane. Thank you!
May 6, 2015
Laughing Eyes
occurred in time before the Bittersweet Duet Books #1 & #2. This intense, powerful story examined Danny and Aiden's past as a Marine sharp shooters. The first half of the book was a suspenseful, scary thriller! I could feel the adrenaline coursing through my blood! I couldn't turn the dramatic, angsty pages fast enough.
The second half of the book took on quite a different tone. I definitely shed some heartbreaking tears! Some parts of Books #1 and #2 were revisited and told from Danny's point-of-view. And, the ending was...hopeful!
So fear not, the author, Melissa Jane, has already eluded that Danny's story will continue on in Book #4! I pray that this fierce, loyal, beautiful man gets his happily-ever-after in the next book!
My Rating: 4 Stars!
The second half of the book took on quite a different tone. I definitely shed some heartbreaking tears! Some parts of Books #1 and #2 were revisited and told from Danny's point-of-view. And, the ending was...hopeful!
So fear not, the author, Melissa Jane, has already eluded that Danny's story will continue on in Book #4! I pray that this fierce, loyal, beautiful man gets his happily-ever-after in the next book!
My Rating: 4 Stars!
April 16, 2015
I was gifted a copy of this book for review.
There are not enough words to express how great this story really was. Melissa Jane has written a story that completely hooks the reader. The content of this story is not for everyone and is graphic however in order to pull of a story like this I felt it was needed. This story definitely causes some extremely intense emotional responses for its readers . Although darker this story is very well written and shows the true depth and talent of this author. I am not going to give a lot of detail with this one because I think it should be read and not judged by the reviews. I personally found this book intensely dark yet highly addictive!!
There are not enough words to express how great this story really was. Melissa Jane has written a story that completely hooks the reader. The content of this story is not for everyone and is graphic however in order to pull of a story like this I felt it was needed. This story definitely causes some extremely intense emotional responses for its readers . Although darker this story is very well written and shows the true depth and talent of this author. I am not going to give a lot of detail with this one because I think it should be read and not judged by the reviews. I personally found this book intensely dark yet highly addictive!!
November 5, 2015
FIVE Stars!
Review of Laughing Eyes (Bittersweet Familia #3) by Melissa Jane
Loved the first tow books but this was certainly a favorite! I want to say you have got to read Little doll #1 and Crimson Desert #2 before reading Laughing Eyes. Danny's story is dark and painful to read, at times I was upset and very emotional for what he had to endure and yet I kept reading wanting to know how this would all turn out for him. I fear by giving too much of the story I will ruin it for a reader. Melissa Jane once again out did herself!
~ Jackie
Review of Laughing Eyes (Bittersweet Familia #3) by Melissa Jane
Loved the first tow books but this was certainly a favorite! I want to say you have got to read Little doll #1 and Crimson Desert #2 before reading Laughing Eyes. Danny's story is dark and painful to read, at times I was upset and very emotional for what he had to endure and yet I kept reading wanting to know how this would all turn out for him. I fear by giving too much of the story I will ruin it for a reader. Melissa Jane once again out did herself!
~ Jackie
December 29, 2015
I read this book in one evening- I just finished (12:15am) my hands and feet are still sweating from what I just read. Melissa Jane did it again- beautiful writing and a story that will keep you at the edge of your seat. I laughed, cried, I wanted to throw the book, I wanted to hug the book- I got every emotion from this book. A warning that at times it gets pretty dark- but if you don't mind that- you will love it. Of course make sure you read the 1st 2 books.
April 18, 2015
I really did like this book. it had adventure,love,a good looking psycho and heartbreak. I would have liked to read more about Laughing Eyes....he was void of feelings, so thru the whole book I kept wanting more information on him, fascinating character. Danny's story is indeed sad but needed to be told and I'm looking forward to book #2 in the Familial series:))
May 3, 2015
Danny's story is finally out! Most of us have waited and wonder what was behind Danny and now we find out everything.
Danny and Aidan are the US Marine's best snipers. Contracted out to find and kill El Leon, the man with the ghostly eyes who's behind the brutal murders of hundreds of villagers.
Danny and Aidan are the US Marine's best snipers. Contracted out to find and kill El Leon, the man with the ghostly eyes who's behind the brutal murders of hundreds of villagers.
March 13, 2016
Not surprised to say i absolutely loved Laughing eyes. Danny is only briefly included in Crimson Desert his story was one i was dying to know. Even though it was not with a happy ending, the way the story was told was perfect. i was not left dissapointed in the ending at all. well done again Melissa!!
May 28, 2015
This book tore my heart out. A dark and emotional ride. This is Danny's story and it takes place before Little Dolls. It was suspenseful, heart warming, twisted and dark, it was brilliant and I can't wait for the next in the series!!!
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