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Once a Marine #3
Exposing the Heiress
This Marine will protect her at all costs...
When wealthy heiress Alyssa Brooks finds out her stepfather has been paying her fiancé to marry her, she's humiliated and betrayed. She quickly breaks the engagement, only to be blackmailed by her now ex-fiancé, who threatens both Alyssa and the son she gave up for adoption. With nowhere to go, she turns to the one man she can trust.
Former Marine sniper Hunter Reece's lethal skills could save Alyssa's life. But his little sister's best friend has turned into a woman, who is an irresistible mix of secrets and sexiness. And while Hunter can trust himself to protect her, he can't trust himself to keep his attraction hidden...or even pretend to be the man that Alyssa remembers.
Because the only way to keep the lovely heiress safe is to become the one thing he knows she could never love...a killer.
When wealthy heiress Alyssa Brooks finds out her stepfather has been paying her fiancé to marry her, she's humiliated and betrayed. She quickly breaks the engagement, only to be blackmailed by her now ex-fiancé, who threatens both Alyssa and the son she gave up for adoption. With nowhere to go, she turns to the one man she can trust.
Former Marine sniper Hunter Reece's lethal skills could save Alyssa's life. But his little sister's best friend has turned into a woman, who is an irresistible mix of secrets and sexiness. And while Hunter can trust himself to protect her, he can't trust himself to keep his attraction hidden...or even pretend to be the man that Alyssa remembers.
Because the only way to keep the lovely heiress safe is to become the one thing he knows she could never love...a killer.
ebook
First published August 4, 2015
About the author
Jennifer Apodaca
20 books366 followersAlso writes paranormal romance under the pseudonym Jennifer Lyon.
I went back to college after my three sons, Matt, Gary and Paul, were born. Beginning with a vague idea of earning a marketing degree, I ended up pursuing a writing career with the full support of my husband, Dan.
First I tried to tame my naturally edgy voice into writing romance, but dead bodies and quirky humor turned up with alarming regularity. So did rejection letters in my mailbox! Dan nagged me to write something contemporary and funny. My mother dropped a hint about trying something modern. My sister mentioned how good I'd be at writing a comedy, maybe even a mystery. Dan agreed with them.
Finally, frustration drove me to murder, fictionally speaking, of course. And so, I have been forced to admit that my husband, mother and sister were right. Not entirely humbled, these days I am busy plotting future adventures for Samantha Shaw!
I went back to college after my three sons, Matt, Gary and Paul, were born. Beginning with a vague idea of earning a marketing degree, I ended up pursuing a writing career with the full support of my husband, Dan.
First I tried to tame my naturally edgy voice into writing romance, but dead bodies and quirky humor turned up with alarming regularity. So did rejection letters in my mailbox! Dan nagged me to write something contemporary and funny. My mother dropped a hint about trying something modern. My sister mentioned how good I'd be at writing a comedy, maybe even a mystery. Dan agreed with them.
Finally, frustration drove me to murder, fictionally speaking, of course. And so, I have been forced to admit that my husband, mother and sister were right. Not entirely humbled, these days I am busy plotting future adventures for Samantha Shaw!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 88 reviews
July 10, 2015
Heiress Alyssa Brooks learns her fiancé, Nate, has ulterior motives in marrying her so she breaks the engagement. His reaction frightens her so badly that she runs to her childhood crush, Hunter Reece, for protection. He's a former Marine sniper, now an operative with Once a Marine Security.
This series has turned out to be one of my most pleasant reading surprises. Each book has featured women and men of substance who are making the best of troubling circumstances and this one is no different.
Hunter struggles with nightmares resulting from all of the kills in his career and turns to his sculpting for relief and release. Alyssa uses her photography as an outlet to express her true self, very different from her public image as a spoiled rich girl. I loved their relationship for its honesty and sincerity. They had deeply rooted feelings for each other stemming from their childhood and it was a great foundation for their developing romance. It was really well done, in spite of Hunter's fears that his past service made him unloveable.
The tension related to Nate's threats provided an element of suspense that made an already good story better. I loved and respected both characters as well as the romance. This series will continue to be an auto read for me.
(I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review)
This series has turned out to be one of my most pleasant reading surprises. Each book has featured women and men of substance who are making the best of troubling circumstances and this one is no different.
Hunter struggles with nightmares resulting from all of the kills in his career and turns to his sculpting for relief and release. Alyssa uses her photography as an outlet to express her true self, very different from her public image as a spoiled rich girl. I loved their relationship for its honesty and sincerity. They had deeply rooted feelings for each other stemming from their childhood and it was a great foundation for their developing romance. It was really well done, in spite of Hunter's fears that his past service made him unloveable.
The tension related to Nate's threats provided an element of suspense that made an already good story better. I loved and respected both characters as well as the romance. This series will continue to be an auto read for me.
(I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review)
May 22, 2015
1.5 - "You've totally ruined boring sex for me." Stars.
If I was asked to sum this book up in one word -
Having enjoyed the previous two books in the Once A Marine series, and waiting over a year for this the third book, I was looking forward to reading Alyssa and Hunter's story.
The woman touched places in him best left alone.
Sadly, nothing really gelled for me with this couple. There was an overabundance of dirty talking but the action seemed to burn out very quickly, the same can be said for the drama, lots of little bits and pieces but it never really felt fully put together.
"All these years... it was you. It's always been you."
The tropes used are some of my favorites, but I don't know, I literally saw what was coming each and every time before it even happened. I wasn't expecting a who-dunnit of Agatha Christie levels or anything but I was expecting a little more...
Hunt and Lyssie did have some very sweet and poignant moments together, and Jennifer's writing is to her usual standards, but having read a few books by her now, I just feel that this one didn't really have the usual spark and connection her romantic couples have always had together in my previous reading experience.
I will be in the minority with my thoughts, and I am sure that most people will love Exposing the Heiress, it just all felt a little forced and fell a little flat for me this time.
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, and I am sorry that I cannot provide a more positive review on this occasion.
If I was asked to sum this book up in one word -
Having enjoyed the previous two books in the Once A Marine series, and waiting over a year for this the third book, I was looking forward to reading Alyssa and Hunter's story.
The woman touched places in him best left alone.
Sadly, nothing really gelled for me with this couple. There was an overabundance of dirty talking but the action seemed to burn out very quickly, the same can be said for the drama, lots of little bits and pieces but it never really felt fully put together.
"All these years... it was you. It's always been you."
The tropes used are some of my favorites, but I don't know, I literally saw what was coming each and every time before it even happened. I wasn't expecting a who-dunnit of Agatha Christie levels or anything but I was expecting a little more...
Hunt and Lyssie did have some very sweet and poignant moments together, and Jennifer's writing is to her usual standards, but having read a few books by her now, I just feel that this one didn't really have the usual spark and connection her romantic couples have always had together in my previous reading experience.
I will be in the minority with my thoughts, and I am sure that most people will love Exposing the Heiress, it just all felt a little forced and fell a little flat for me this time.
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, and I am sorry that I cannot provide a more positive review on this occasion.
June 1, 2015
Since this was my first time reading a book by Jennifer Apodaca I wasn't really sure what to expect. All I know was that blurb totally sucked me in and I knew I had to give it a go... And okay, in total honestly that cover might have had a little something to do with it too. That being said, while this was my first Jennifer Apodaca read, it definitely won't be my last.
So what's it all about? Alyssa is months away from marrying her fiancee, Nate, when she overhears a conversation between him and her stepfather about how he's paying Nate to marry her. When she confronts Nate about it and calls off the wedding he becomes a completely different person than the man that she knows. Fearing for her life and the life of her son that she gave up for adoption, she goes to Hunt for protection.
Hunt used to be a sniper in the Marines but he knew he had to give it up when killing became too easy for him. He's definitely not the young man that Alyssa remembers, but he still offers his protection to the girl that used to be his sisters best friend.
The attraction between Alyssa and Hunt is apparent from the get-go but Hunt isn't relationship material and knows that Alyssa deserves more than a fling so he resists her at first. Unfortunately, or maybe fortunately for him, Alyssa knows that even a fling with Hunt is better than never knowing what could have been between the two and goes after her man.
I absolutely loved the couple time between Hunt and Alyssa. The way they opened up to each other and felt safe enough with each other to share secrets that they haven't shared with other people. Hunt was definitely in a vulnerable place when it came to relationships, and I'm not going to lie, I got a little tired of Alyssa having to constantly reassure Hunt that she wasn't afraid of him, but his vulnerability made him sweeter in a way that most alpha males aren't.
The suspense, while not exactly lacking, wasn't really what I was expecting. We knew who the villain was, obviously, but most of the book was basically just them lying in wait and trying to figure out Nate's end game. It wasn't bad, per se, just not as nail biting as I was expecting.
I would have loved for a little more at the end of the book and that's the only reason why I couldn't rate this one five stars. Nate and Alyssa definitely had a couple things that they needed to work through and I felt that Nate needed a good grovel scene for abandoning her at one point, but besides my own personal pet peeves, this was a great read and definitely warrants me going back and reading the rest of the books in this series.
*ARC kindly provided through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
So what's it all about? Alyssa is months away from marrying her fiancee, Nate, when she overhears a conversation between him and her stepfather about how he's paying Nate to marry her. When she confronts Nate about it and calls off the wedding he becomes a completely different person than the man that she knows. Fearing for her life and the life of her son that she gave up for adoption, she goes to Hunt for protection.
Hunt used to be a sniper in the Marines but he knew he had to give it up when killing became too easy for him. He's definitely not the young man that Alyssa remembers, but he still offers his protection to the girl that used to be his sisters best friend.
The attraction between Alyssa and Hunt is apparent from the get-go but Hunt isn't relationship material and knows that Alyssa deserves more than a fling so he resists her at first. Unfortunately, or maybe fortunately for him, Alyssa knows that even a fling with Hunt is better than never knowing what could have been between the two and goes after her man.
I absolutely loved the couple time between Hunt and Alyssa. The way they opened up to each other and felt safe enough with each other to share secrets that they haven't shared with other people. Hunt was definitely in a vulnerable place when it came to relationships, and I'm not going to lie, I got a little tired of Alyssa having to constantly reassure Hunt that she wasn't afraid of him, but his vulnerability made him sweeter in a way that most alpha males aren't.
The suspense, while not exactly lacking, wasn't really what I was expecting. We knew who the villain was, obviously, but most of the book was basically just them lying in wait and trying to figure out Nate's end game. It wasn't bad, per se, just not as nail biting as I was expecting.
I would have loved for a little more at the end of the book and that's the only reason why I couldn't rate this one five stars. Nate and Alyssa definitely had a couple things that they needed to work through and I felt that Nate needed a good grovel scene for abandoning her at one point, but besides my own personal pet peeves, this was a great read and definitely warrants me going back and reading the rest of the books in this series.
*ARC kindly provided through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
December 15, 2018
Movie heiress Alyssa Brooks learns that her fiancee and stepfather conspired to marry her off, take her company, and more. She is left humiliated, humbled and in danger and she knows that their is only one man she can trust enough to protect her and her secret, a son she gave up for adoption years ago.
Hunter Reece was a marine sniper. He was great at his job, would do it again, but he came home and home is where he brought the dark side of his job. The memories, the nightmares, the reclamation into society. When childhood friend Alyssa shows up and talks about needing his help he is eager to keep her and her son safe. Her old crush, his lust for her now, lead to a steamy story. When her ex fiancee goes off the rails her life and that of anyone she knows and loves is in danger. He will do everything to keep her safe.
I liked this story, while you know it is the ex, you wonder what he will do and to who? Also is others involved etc. The love story was hot. I really like this series
Hunter Reece was a marine sniper. He was great at his job, would do it again, but he came home and home is where he brought the dark side of his job. The memories, the nightmares, the reclamation into society. When childhood friend Alyssa shows up and talks about needing his help he is eager to keep her and her son safe. Her old crush, his lust for her now, lead to a steamy story. When her ex fiancee goes off the rails her life and that of anyone she knows and loves is in danger. He will do everything to keep her safe.
I liked this story, while you know it is the ex, you wonder what he will do and to who? Also is others involved etc. The love story was hot. I really like this series
July 19, 2015
ARC provided by the Publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Beef-cake Marine to the rescue. There is just something about a military hero romantic-suspense that just makes my heart go pitter-patter. I am always up for a good tale involving my favorite good guys and Exposing the Heiress is more that up to the task. As #3 in the Once a Marine series this book reads like a standalone. That gets extra points for me. This is a wonderful, sexy romance with a really good suspense plot too.
Alyssa's stepfather is paying Nate to marry her. When she finds out, she dumps his sorry ass. Nate threatens Alyssa and she turns to Hunt from Once a Marine Security Services. Hunt is also an old family friend and the childhood crush turns into a flaming hot romance. Nate is a nasty piece of work and Hunt, a former Marine sniper can't wait to get him in his sights.
Beef-cake Marine to the rescue. There is just something about a military hero romantic-suspense that just makes my heart go pitter-patter. I am always up for a good tale involving my favorite good guys and Exposing the Heiress is more that up to the task. As #3 in the Once a Marine series this book reads like a standalone. That gets extra points for me. This is a wonderful, sexy romance with a really good suspense plot too.
Alyssa's stepfather is paying Nate to marry her. When she finds out, she dumps his sorry ass. Nate threatens Alyssa and she turns to Hunt from Once a Marine Security Services. Hunt is also an old family friend and the childhood crush turns into a flaming hot romance. Nate is a nasty piece of work and Hunt, a former Marine sniper can't wait to get him in his sights.
July 20, 2015
Was not sure about Exposing the Heiress. Ms. Apodaca is an author I had not had the pleasure of reading before. I was wary because I am not really a mystery reader. But I was proven wrong. There were so many angles and curve balls in this story that I forgot everything else for the day and sat down to read the book all the way through. Exposing the Heiress turned out to be a sexy thrill. I enjoyed it . Thank you Entangled and NetGalley for the ARC. Thank you Jennifer Apodaca for this wonderful story. Received an ARC of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
August 11, 2015
3.75 stars
ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date August 4, 2015
This Marine will protect her at all costs...
When wealthy heiress Alyssa Brooks finds out her stepfather has been paying her fiancé to marry her, she's humiliated and betrayed. She quickly breaks the engagement, only to be blackmailed by her now ex-fiancé, who threatens both Alyssa and the son she gave up for adoption. With nowhere to go, she turns to the one man she can trust.
Former Marine sniper Hunter Reece's lethal skills could save Alyssa's life. But his little sister's best friend has turned into a woman, who is an irresistible mix of secrets and sexiness. And while Hunter can trust himself to protect her, he can't trust himself to keep his attraction hidden...or even pretend to be the man that Alyssa remembers.
Because the only way to keep the lovely heiress safe is to become the one thing he knows she could never love...a killer.
•••••••••
REVIEW: 3.75 stars---EXPOSING THE HEIRESS is the third installment in Jennifer Apodaca (Jennifer Lyon’s) adult, contemporary Once a Marine erotic romance series. This is former Marine sniper Hunter Reece, and celebrity heiress Alyssa Brooks’s storyline- a friends to lovers trope that reveals many hidden secrets and ghosts from the past. EXPOSING THE HEIRESS can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty.
Told from third person point of view EXPOSING THE HEIRESS focuses on Alyssa Brooks as she must go into hiding to protect the son she gave up years before. At seventeen years old, Alyssa would discover she was pregnant and the resulting aftermath would force Alyssa to take stock of her entire life. Fast forward to present day and Alyssa will overhear that her step father has been paying her now former fiancé Nate Madden a hefty sum to marry her in order to gain control of Dragon Wing Productions, left to Alyssa in her late mother’s will. In order to protect her son and his new family Alyssa will approach Once a Marine Security Agency asking for her best friend’s brother Hunter Reece to act as body guard until she is able to take control of her life-once again. What ensues is a waiting game wherein Alyssa will become the target of a vengeful ex-fiance who is willing to go to any measure to take back and destroy what he considers his.
The relationship between Hunter and Alyssa is a friend to lovers trope that sees Hunter craving his little sister’s former best friend. Alyssa has always had a bit of a crush on Hunter Reece, one that began at fourteen years of age, and in the ensuing time has never forgotten a promise Reese made to her. But Hunter is a man with a dark past that haunts his nights with nightmares, horrific memories, and the guilt of a man doing a job no one else wanted to do, and in this Hunter doesn’t do relationships, friendships or love. The $ex scenes are erotic and provocative –Hunter likes to talk dirty in the bedroom but the sexual chemistry between our leading couple felt distant and somewhat flat-Reece’s inability to love was readily apparent throughout most of the read. Having some issues of trust, when the time came to step up, Reese walked away leaving Alyssa unprotected, alone and broken hearted. Some major groveling was needed (in my humble opinion).
EXPOSING THE HEIRESS is an enjoyable but predictable storyline with a little bit of everything: sex, romance, some suspense, friendships, heartbreak and love. Most of the storyline focuses on the building relationship (while in hiding) between Hunter and Alyssa, and the threats from Alyssa’s former fiancé that promise to expose Alyssa’s secret past- the majority of the action takes place in the final few chapters.
Jennifer Apodaca (aka Jennifer Lyon) is a talented author with a spirited energy that comes through in her storyline characters. EXPOSING THE HEIRESS reveals a tender side to a man hardened by the harsh realities of the atrocities of war, and how the love of one woman can melt the ice around a frozen heart.
Copy supplied by the publisher through Netgalley.
www.thereadingcafe.com
ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date August 4, 2015
This Marine will protect her at all costs...
When wealthy heiress Alyssa Brooks finds out her stepfather has been paying her fiancé to marry her, she's humiliated and betrayed. She quickly breaks the engagement, only to be blackmailed by her now ex-fiancé, who threatens both Alyssa and the son she gave up for adoption. With nowhere to go, she turns to the one man she can trust.
Former Marine sniper Hunter Reece's lethal skills could save Alyssa's life. But his little sister's best friend has turned into a woman, who is an irresistible mix of secrets and sexiness. And while Hunter can trust himself to protect her, he can't trust himself to keep his attraction hidden...or even pretend to be the man that Alyssa remembers.
Because the only way to keep the lovely heiress safe is to become the one thing he knows she could never love...a killer.
•••••••••
REVIEW: 3.75 stars---EXPOSING THE HEIRESS is the third installment in Jennifer Apodaca (Jennifer Lyon’s) adult, contemporary Once a Marine erotic romance series. This is former Marine sniper Hunter Reece, and celebrity heiress Alyssa Brooks’s storyline- a friends to lovers trope that reveals many hidden secrets and ghosts from the past. EXPOSING THE HEIRESS can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty.
Told from third person point of view EXPOSING THE HEIRESS focuses on Alyssa Brooks as she must go into hiding to protect the son she gave up years before. At seventeen years old, Alyssa would discover she was pregnant and the resulting aftermath would force Alyssa to take stock of her entire life. Fast forward to present day and Alyssa will overhear that her step father has been paying her now former fiancé Nate Madden a hefty sum to marry her in order to gain control of Dragon Wing Productions, left to Alyssa in her late mother’s will. In order to protect her son and his new family Alyssa will approach Once a Marine Security Agency asking for her best friend’s brother Hunter Reece to act as body guard until she is able to take control of her life-once again. What ensues is a waiting game wherein Alyssa will become the target of a vengeful ex-fiance who is willing to go to any measure to take back and destroy what he considers his.
The relationship between Hunter and Alyssa is a friend to lovers trope that sees Hunter craving his little sister’s former best friend. Alyssa has always had a bit of a crush on Hunter Reece, one that began at fourteen years of age, and in the ensuing time has never forgotten a promise Reese made to her. But Hunter is a man with a dark past that haunts his nights with nightmares, horrific memories, and the guilt of a man doing a job no one else wanted to do, and in this Hunter doesn’t do relationships, friendships or love. The $ex scenes are erotic and provocative –Hunter likes to talk dirty in the bedroom but the sexual chemistry between our leading couple felt distant and somewhat flat-Reece’s inability to love was readily apparent throughout most of the read. Having some issues of trust, when the time came to step up, Reese walked away leaving Alyssa unprotected, alone and broken hearted. Some major groveling was needed (in my humble opinion).
EXPOSING THE HEIRESS is an enjoyable but predictable storyline with a little bit of everything: sex, romance, some suspense, friendships, heartbreak and love. Most of the storyline focuses on the building relationship (while in hiding) between Hunter and Alyssa, and the threats from Alyssa’s former fiancé that promise to expose Alyssa’s secret past- the majority of the action takes place in the final few chapters.
Jennifer Apodaca (aka Jennifer Lyon) is a talented author with a spirited energy that comes through in her storyline characters. EXPOSING THE HEIRESS reveals a tender side to a man hardened by the harsh realities of the atrocities of war, and how the love of one woman can melt the ice around a frozen heart.
Copy supplied by the publisher through Netgalley.
www.thereadingcafe.com
September 22, 2015
3 ⭐⭐⭐
Hunt and Alyssa
The story was okay, had more suspense than the previous 2 books in the series
Though there were a few boring times and the story too was a little unpredictable but at the end it was enjoyable to read ..
Hope to get Cooper Sims, Griff Rankin and Sienna Lorrey story 😊
Fave Quote:
You’re my lover. And right now, you are making me want more. Crave more - Hunt
Hunt and Alyssa
The story was okay, had more suspense than the previous 2 books in the series
Though there were a few boring times and the story too was a little unpredictable but at the end it was enjoyable to read ..
Hope to get Cooper Sims, Griff Rankin and Sienna Lorrey story 😊
Fave Quote:
You’re my lover. And right now, you are making me want more. Crave more - Hunt
July 31, 2015
Novel received courtesy of Goodreads.com giveaway
I loved this book! I usually find these "romance" reads a nice diversion after reading something heavy but this novel grabbed my interest from the very first page. It was so much more than a "formula" story. It was deeply engaging with wrll developed characters. I will be looking forward to reading more in this series!
I loved this book! I usually find these "romance" reads a nice diversion after reading something heavy but this novel grabbed my interest from the very first page. It was so much more than a "formula" story. It was deeply engaging with wrll developed characters. I will be looking forward to reading more in this series!
May 27, 2015
Blog Tour, Review & Guest Post: Exposing the Heiress (A Once a Marine Novel) by Jennifer Apodaca http://wp.me/p3d0RZ-2Ry
***GO TO BLOG POST FOR GIVEAWAY***
Publication Date: August 4, 2015
Reviewed by: Reading in Pajamas/ Cori
Rated: 5 Stars
REVIEW:
I know when I pick up a book written by Jennifer Apodaca (Jennifer Lyon) it's going to be good. Exposing the Heiress was great! The Once a Marine Series features a different former marine and a woman in need of protection in each book. Alyssa turns to her friend's brother Hunter for protection when she finds herself in danger. I loved Hunter and Alyssa together! I wasn't sure I was going to like Alyssa at first but Jennifer Apodaca creates heroines that are both strong and vulnerable. The reader falls in love with the hero and roots for the heroine. Exposing the Heiress was an emotional and sexy romance that captured my attention and held on to it. I recommend this book and this series for romance lovers looking for hot romance with protective alpha males. I love this series!
*Review copy provided by Entangled in exchange for an honest review.
August 14, 2015
Blog Tour, Review & Guest Post: Exposing the Heiress (A Once a Marine Novel) by Jennifer Apodaca http://wp.me/p3d0RZ-2Ry
***GO TO BLOG POST FOR GIVEAWAY***
Publication Date: August 4, 2015
Reviewed by: Reading in Pajamas/ Cori
Rated: 5 Stars
REVIEW:
I know when I pick up a book written by Jennifer Apodaca (Jennifer Lyon) it's going to be good. Exposing the Heiress was great! The Once a Marine Series features a different former marine and a woman in need of protection in each book. Alyssa turns to her friend's brother Hunter for protection when she finds herself in danger. I loved Hunter and Alyssa together! I wasn't sure I was going to like Alyssa at first but Jennifer Apodaca creates heroines that are both strong and vulnerable. The reader falls in love with the hero and roots for the heroine. Exposing the Heiress was an emotional and sexy romance that captured my attention and held on to it. I recommend this book and this series for romance lovers looking for hot romance with protective alpha males. I love this series!
*Review copy provided by Entangled in exchange for an honest review.
August 4, 2015
The only way to keep Alyssa Brooks safe is to become the one thing former Mairne sniper Hunter Reece knows she could never love…a killer in this thrilling romantic suspense.
Humiliated and betrayed, heiress Alyssa Brooks turn to the only man she knows can trust and the reader can’t help but get caught up in the story of a love that heals the most wounded of hearts. The attraction between Alyssa and Hunter is hot enough to make anyone sit up and take notice but both of them have emotional scars that need to be healed and these strong compelling characters capture the heart while drawing readers in and the fast paced, smooth flowing plot captivates readers with lots of suspense, excitement and romance.
As if realizing the life you thought you had was a sham isn’t enough to have it turn around and try to completely destroy you would be an emotional challenge that few could stand against but Alyssa and Hunter are up for that challenge which has expectation building lots of tension and excitement throughout the story as the danger to Alyssa escalates. The well written scenes and detail capture the imagination while the emotional turbulence and intriguing events guarantee the readers is completely absorbed in the story from beginning to end.
This story has lots of emotional elements but at the same time has a feel good story feel to it because of the vibrant intensity of the characters as they overcome adversity. This story can be read as a standalone in the Once a Marine series but I have to say that I the characters has certainly caught my attention and I will be going back and reading the previous books while I await the next one.
Humiliated and betrayed, heiress Alyssa Brooks turn to the only man she knows can trust and the reader can’t help but get caught up in the story of a love that heals the most wounded of hearts. The attraction between Alyssa and Hunter is hot enough to make anyone sit up and take notice but both of them have emotional scars that need to be healed and these strong compelling characters capture the heart while drawing readers in and the fast paced, smooth flowing plot captivates readers with lots of suspense, excitement and romance.
As if realizing the life you thought you had was a sham isn’t enough to have it turn around and try to completely destroy you would be an emotional challenge that few could stand against but Alyssa and Hunter are up for that challenge which has expectation building lots of tension and excitement throughout the story as the danger to Alyssa escalates. The well written scenes and detail capture the imagination while the emotional turbulence and intriguing events guarantee the readers is completely absorbed in the story from beginning to end.
This story has lots of emotional elements but at the same time has a feel good story feel to it because of the vibrant intensity of the characters as they overcome adversity. This story can be read as a standalone in the Once a Marine series but I have to say that I the characters has certainly caught my attention and I will be going back and reading the previous books while I await the next one.
June 10, 2015
Having read and enjoyed the previous books in the Once A Marine series, I have to admit to having fairly high hopes for Exposing the Heiress; I'm quite partial to the best-friends older brother and second-chance love tropes and the storyline sounded promising.
Unfortunately, it wasn't to be.
"You know what I like?"
"Me. We've established that.
Hunt and Alyssa were a nice enough couple, and they did have some lovely moments together, but on the whole they were quite boring and their story failed to hold my interest. I've read Jennifer Apodaca before so I know she has the ability to bring her reader a sexy romance with likeable strong characters and a story to become invested in with some action, but I found this steady, highly predictable, and boredom quickly set in. I wanted more than I got in first 90% of the book. Cramming everything into the final 10% doesn't work and I'm still a little perplexed at how I managed to get to that point.
I'm sure many will enjoy this, it just didn't work out for me which is a shame.
Copy received courtesy of Entangled Publishing via NetGalley for an honest and unbiased opinion.
Unfortunately, it wasn't to be.
"You know what I like?"
"Me. We've established that.
Hunt and Alyssa were a nice enough couple, and they did have some lovely moments together, but on the whole they were quite boring and their story failed to hold my interest. I've read Jennifer Apodaca before so I know she has the ability to bring her reader a sexy romance with likeable strong characters and a story to become invested in with some action, but I found this steady, highly predictable, and boredom quickly set in. I wanted more than I got in first 90% of the book. Cramming everything into the final 10% doesn't work and I'm still a little perplexed at how I managed to get to that point.
I'm sure many will enjoy this, it just didn't work out for me which is a shame.
Copy received courtesy of Entangled Publishing via NetGalley for an honest and unbiased opinion.
June 5, 2015
I received this from Netgalley/ Entangled Publishing in exchange for a honest review. So what is a girl to do when she has been threatened? Well, find a hero of course and what is a good hero without some issues. This is a tale of two people that have to overcome some major obstacles to come together.
June 9, 2015
I never really warmed up to this one, not sure why. Nate was a nasty piece of work, was glad that he got what he deserved. The one highlight to this one was the video that Alyssa made about Hunt, to show him how a Marine was better than a prince.
July 31, 2015
3.5 stars
August 13, 2016
Another great. I really love this series and can't wait to read more books from Jennifer Apodaca.
August 24, 2015
Review pending.
April 20, 2018
This is the 3rd book in the series.
You don't need to read the others in the series to read this one.
To know what the book is about read the blurb above.
The plot on this book is pretty good and very original. I can see it happening, but the heroine in the book reminds me of a Paris Hilton at the start of the book and then morphs into a normal jeans, tshirt and sneakers type of woman after first few chapters. That type of heroine I can identify with.
It was interesting to see the heroine's crush move into something more. The hero's knew there was something special about the heroine and it took him much longer to note it was more about feelings rather than just physical. The heroine, to me, at the start wasn't very strong at all again the Paris Hilton comparison. However, when she makes the switch to the everyday type of person she gets stronger too. The hero was always strong and very protective over her.
The plot was definitely interesting and kept me wanting to see what happened next. I loved how people would show up which added to the story line. I don't believe the heroine's mother's second husband at all and believe he was in on it.
You don't need to read the others in the series to read this one.
To know what the book is about read the blurb above.
The plot on this book is pretty good and very original. I can see it happening, but the heroine in the book reminds me of a Paris Hilton at the start of the book and then morphs into a normal jeans, tshirt and sneakers type of woman after first few chapters. That type of heroine I can identify with.
It was interesting to see the heroine's crush move into something more. The hero's knew there was something special about the heroine and it took him much longer to note it was more about feelings rather than just physical. The heroine, to me, at the start wasn't very strong at all again the Paris Hilton comparison. However, when she makes the switch to the everyday type of person she gets stronger too. The hero was always strong and very protective over her.
The plot was definitely interesting and kept me wanting to see what happened next. I loved how people would show up which added to the story line. I don't believe the heroine's mother's second husband at all and believe he was in on it.
January 1, 2018
Exposing the Heiress
Hunter and Alyssa knew each other all their lives. Hunter was older than Alyssa and his sister Erin. From the time Alyssa was old enough to remember Hunter she had a crush on him. However, he went to the marines and her life changed and they lost touch . Years later Alyssa has some trouble and runs to Hunter for protection. For Alyssa old feelings surface for Hunter but he is a changed man from war and Alyssa has her own insecurities. Hunter doesn't believe happily ever after us in store for him. Alyssa starts to help him see things in a new light. Can Hunter keep her safe from her past? Read and see if they can find a happily ever after.
Hunter and Alyssa knew each other all their lives. Hunter was older than Alyssa and his sister Erin. From the time Alyssa was old enough to remember Hunter she had a crush on him. However, he went to the marines and her life changed and they lost touch . Years later Alyssa has some trouble and runs to Hunter for protection. For Alyssa old feelings surface for Hunter but he is a changed man from war and Alyssa has her own insecurities. Hunter doesn't believe happily ever after us in store for him. Alyssa starts to help him see things in a new light. Can Hunter keep her safe from her past? Read and see if they can find a happily ever after.
August 19, 2019
Hunt and Alsshea (Lyssie)
What a wonderful story. The traumatic and painful areas that Hunt have to go though in order to heal from becoming a sniper. His healing came through is long time childhood friend Lassie, whom he was a bodyguard to, guarding her from an abusive ex boyfriend. In the end, he finds out how trust and love are the biggest healing of all.
What a wonderful story. The traumatic and painful areas that Hunt have to go though in order to heal from becoming a sniper. His healing came through is long time childhood friend Lassie, whom he was a bodyguard to, guarding her from an abusive ex boyfriend. In the end, he finds out how trust and love are the biggest healing of all.
July 28, 2022
I enjoyed this book very much. Emily Durante did a great job narrating. Hunter and Alyssa were wonderful characters, a good supporting cast, and a despicable villain.
June 4, 2015
Originally posted on my blog: Tangled Up In Books
I received a copy of this book, from the publisher, in exchange for an honest review. In no way did this sway either my review or my rating!
Oh. My. Heart. I think there's a very real possibility that I lost it somewhere between the pages. Sigh. Exposing the Heiress was the perfect blend of suspense, scorching hot romance and heartfelt characters. I was on the edge of my seat from the moment I started it and didn't relax until the final word on the very last page. I'll admit that at first it was the beautiful set of abs on the cover that first drew me to this book, hey, I'm human! But the thing that made me say I need to read it was that blurb. I was intrigued by it's fresh plot and the promise of very complex characters. Which was exactly what I got.
I love deeply complex characters. The ones who make you feel the need to pull apart their layers to really understand what makes them tick. Especially the ones who are a bit broken, I always seem to gravitate towards the broken ones the most. Delving deep and discovering their secrets, the things they hide from everyone else. In both Hunter and Alyssa I got all of that. Hunter being the ex-marine sniper who's seen and done stuff that keeps him awake at night, tortured by memories. While Alyssa's secrets are a bit less obvious but her pain is just as valid.
I absolutely freaking adored and loved Alyssa deeply. In the beginning she gives off this air of innocence and fragility and in some ways is a bit naive. Once she has someone in her corner though, Hunter, you see her blossom. It's in seeing herself through him that she discovers bravery and strength and discovers a passion and fierceness she didn't think she was capable of. She has this incredible heart, I mean, there were times that just seeing how much she thought about and cared for people who are normally brushed aside or not given a second glance brought tears to my eyes a couple of times. Even something as simple as her bringing a plate of dinner to one of her bodyguards had my eyes filling up for crying out loud. It was something so simple but the awe and appreciation from Hunter watching this just got me all emotional. She's such a beautiful force of good.
Tattoos? Check. Tortured past? Check. Strong and protective? Check. Sexy as all hell? Check, check, check, check! Hunter is the type of guy who steals your heart and then really does a number on it. He is so sweet and has a heart of gold but he's also one of those guys who is so torn up over what he had to become in the military that he's almost afraid to touch Alyssa because he doesn't want that darkness to touch her. Totally just sighed and my heart skipped a beat right there. Holy guacamole though, that sexy side? Jiminy Christmas! Sorry I'm trying to keep it clean, but *fans self* He could talk your panties right off of you! There were a couple times when he'd be telling Alyssa what he'd do to her if she didn't walk away and...
Okay, enough. Need to finish this review. Temptation to go back and reread is way too strong...
Sigh.
As you can tell...I kind of liked this book just a smidge. What can I say, I'm a huge sucker for the best friend's older brother trope. Especially with characters like these. Throw that bit of danger into the mix and I've completely been won over. It seems I've had the first book in this series on my Kindle for quite some time now and all I want to do is kick myself and wonder how the heck I haven't started it before now. That will be remedied very soon. I can't wait to go back and read both Adam and then Logan's stories.
I believe I've become an instant fan of Jennifer Apodaca's and can't wait to read more from her. And I'll close this off with one question for her. Well, two names in the form of a question but...Coop and Maxine? Maybe? Just think about it. Haha!
Thanks goes to Entangled Publishing for the opportunity to read and review this book!
I received a copy of this book, from the publisher, in exchange for an honest review. In no way did this sway either my review or my rating!
Oh. My. Heart. I think there's a very real possibility that I lost it somewhere between the pages. Sigh. Exposing the Heiress was the perfect blend of suspense, scorching hot romance and heartfelt characters. I was on the edge of my seat from the moment I started it and didn't relax until the final word on the very last page. I'll admit that at first it was the beautiful set of abs on the cover that first drew me to this book, hey, I'm human! But the thing that made me say I need to read it was that blurb. I was intrigued by it's fresh plot and the promise of very complex characters. Which was exactly what I got.
I love deeply complex characters. The ones who make you feel the need to pull apart their layers to really understand what makes them tick. Especially the ones who are a bit broken, I always seem to gravitate towards the broken ones the most. Delving deep and discovering their secrets, the things they hide from everyone else. In both Hunter and Alyssa I got all of that. Hunter being the ex-marine sniper who's seen and done stuff that keeps him awake at night, tortured by memories. While Alyssa's secrets are a bit less obvious but her pain is just as valid.
I absolutely freaking adored and loved Alyssa deeply. In the beginning she gives off this air of innocence and fragility and in some ways is a bit naive. Once she has someone in her corner though, Hunter, you see her blossom. It's in seeing herself through him that she discovers bravery and strength and discovers a passion and fierceness she didn't think she was capable of. She has this incredible heart, I mean, there were times that just seeing how much she thought about and cared for people who are normally brushed aside or not given a second glance brought tears to my eyes a couple of times. Even something as simple as her bringing a plate of dinner to one of her bodyguards had my eyes filling up for crying out loud. It was something so simple but the awe and appreciation from Hunter watching this just got me all emotional. She's such a beautiful force of good.
Tattoos? Check. Tortured past? Check. Strong and protective? Check. Sexy as all hell? Check, check, check, check! Hunter is the type of guy who steals your heart and then really does a number on it. He is so sweet and has a heart of gold but he's also one of those guys who is so torn up over what he had to become in the military that he's almost afraid to touch Alyssa because he doesn't want that darkness to touch her. Totally just sighed and my heart skipped a beat right there. Holy guacamole though, that sexy side? Jiminy Christmas! Sorry I'm trying to keep it clean, but *fans self* He could talk your panties right off of you! There were a couple times when he'd be telling Alyssa what he'd do to her if she didn't walk away and...
Okay, enough. Need to finish this review. Temptation to go back and reread is way too strong...
Sigh.
As you can tell...I kind of liked this book just a smidge. What can I say, I'm a huge sucker for the best friend's older brother trope. Especially with characters like these. Throw that bit of danger into the mix and I've completely been won over. It seems I've had the first book in this series on my Kindle for quite some time now and all I want to do is kick myself and wonder how the heck I haven't started it before now. That will be remedied very soon. I can't wait to go back and read both Adam and then Logan's stories.
I believe I've become an instant fan of Jennifer Apodaca's and can't wait to read more from her. And I'll close this off with one question for her. Well, two names in the form of a question but...Coop and Maxine? Maybe? Just think about it. Haha!
Thanks goes to Entangled Publishing for the opportunity to read and review this book!
August 3, 2015
The blurb for this book had everything I love in books - a Marine, an ex-fiancé with an ax to grind and the best friend of a sibling as a love interest and caught my eye.
Alyssa Brooks is weeks away from getting married when she stumbles on her stepfather and her fiancé discussing their future plans and the payments her stepfather has been making to her fiancé to marry her. When she confronts her fiancé and breaks the engagement, he resorts to blackmail and threats to coerce her to go through with the marriage. In fear for her life and that of the son she gave up for adoption, she retains the services of a security agency to provide protection and quite fortuitously, is assigned Hunter Reece as her bodyguard.
Hunter is the elder brother of her childhood best friend and is quick to step up to ensure her well-being, whisking her away to safety. Hunt was Alyssa's first crush and now that they are in hiding together, those feelings grow into something more, but the two of them are not the kids they were back then. Hunter is former Marine sniper who came back home with lots of issues and does not consider himself relationship material, having tried it once unsuccessfully. Alyssa has faced her own issues - her mother's death and the resulting fallout including her pregnancy and giving her baby up for adoption and she is willing to take the little that Hunt can give her rather than have nothing at all.
The time in hiding was great for them because apart from the attraction that flared up between them, Alyssa and Hunt find themselves opening to each other completely, sharing secrets that they have held closely for a long time and I loved all of it, including the healing that sharing brought them. When it comes to relationships, both of them had been dealt the short end of the stick, the only difference being that while Hunt thought he wasn't relationship material because of what he had done in the Marines, Alyssa thought she was unworthy because, in addition to the loss of her parents, everyone else either left her or used her.
I enjoyed EXPOSING THE HEIRESS particularly because of the friendship that Alyssa and Hunt built on what they had from their childhood and the ease and openness of their interactions. I also enjoyed seeing Alyssa take charge of her life and go for what she wanted- her career, Hunt - instead of allowing herself be manipulated into doing what she was not comfortable with.
The suspense was very well done. Even though the villain was known from the beginning, his attacks on Alyssa, his well-covered tracks and the wait for him to show his hand was enough to keep me on the edge. Now, I have a few issues, especially the speed at which they moved their relationship along, but these do not affect my overall enjoyment of the story and knowing that I've had the first two books in the series in my TBR? I'm definitely moving them to the top of the pile.
Disclaimer: I received this book for free from the Publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
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Alyssa Brooks is weeks away from getting married when she stumbles on her stepfather and her fiancé discussing their future plans and the payments her stepfather has been making to her fiancé to marry her. When she confronts her fiancé and breaks the engagement, he resorts to blackmail and threats to coerce her to go through with the marriage. In fear for her life and that of the son she gave up for adoption, she retains the services of a security agency to provide protection and quite fortuitously, is assigned Hunter Reece as her bodyguard.
Hunter is the elder brother of her childhood best friend and is quick to step up to ensure her well-being, whisking her away to safety. Hunt was Alyssa's first crush and now that they are in hiding together, those feelings grow into something more, but the two of them are not the kids they were back then. Hunter is former Marine sniper who came back home with lots of issues and does not consider himself relationship material, having tried it once unsuccessfully. Alyssa has faced her own issues - her mother's death and the resulting fallout including her pregnancy and giving her baby up for adoption and she is willing to take the little that Hunt can give her rather than have nothing at all.
The time in hiding was great for them because apart from the attraction that flared up between them, Alyssa and Hunt find themselves opening to each other completely, sharing secrets that they have held closely for a long time and I loved all of it, including the healing that sharing brought them. When it comes to relationships, both of them had been dealt the short end of the stick, the only difference being that while Hunt thought he wasn't relationship material because of what he had done in the Marines, Alyssa thought she was unworthy because, in addition to the loss of her parents, everyone else either left her or used her.
I enjoyed EXPOSING THE HEIRESS particularly because of the friendship that Alyssa and Hunt built on what they had from their childhood and the ease and openness of their interactions. I also enjoyed seeing Alyssa take charge of her life and go for what she wanted- her career, Hunt - instead of allowing herself be manipulated into doing what she was not comfortable with.
The suspense was very well done. Even though the villain was known from the beginning, his attacks on Alyssa, his well-covered tracks and the wait for him to show his hand was enough to keep me on the edge. Now, I have a few issues, especially the speed at which they moved their relationship along, but these do not affect my overall enjoyment of the story and knowing that I've had the first two books in the series in my TBR? I'm definitely moving them to the top of the pile.
Disclaimer: I received this book for free from the Publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Want more? Subscribe to my Newsletter on The Sassy Bookster.
Follow me on Twitter | Tumblr | Bloglovin’.
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August 5, 2015
Originally Reviewed For: Tea and Book
Exposing the Heiress just proves the case that if it walks like an author and talks like an author.then it's an author. Written by Jenifer Apodaca AKA Jennifer Lyon, author of my very beloved Wing Slayer Hunters, it explodes from the pages from the very beginning.
Book three of her once a marine series it soars in it's very own way.
Alyssa Brooks was the beloved daughter of a Hollywood icon, as a teenager she was driving the car that skid from the road and killed her mother. Living with the guilt she has done everything possible to be the brand of the family business. Helping her stepfather every way she could. Only when she finds out that her fiance is actually in cahoots with said stepfather, that it was all a scam she was infuriated and broke of the engagement. Only her fiance was more evil than she ever dreamed and he threatened the child she had given up for adoption. The child she loved so dearly that she wanted only for him to have a normal life. Either marry him or the child is in danger.. yeah right. Alyssa might feel guilty but she's not stupid. Turning to the Once a Marine Agency and asking for the one man she knows she can trust, Hunter Reece.
Hunter Reece was raised in an artistic, peace loving family but no matter their personal beliefs each person was encouraged to follow his/her own path. Hunter's path led to the marines, where he became a decorated sniper. Only he got too good at it and realized that each kill was taking parts of his soul and it was time to get out or loose what little was left. Hampered by nightmares he sculpts for therapy but he makes his living at Once a Marine, an elite bodyguard service. When he is called in to guard former family friend Alyssa Brooks he is conflicted, furious that she turned her back on his family, worried about the threats against her and the worst part? He wants her..
The thing about military suspense is it's a very "in" sub genre. It is easy to get lost among the others, fortunately for us Jennifer knows how to tell a story. It doesn't matter if it's PNR (Wing Slayer Hunters), Erotica (Plus One) or Military Suspense, it's not the genre it's the story. And what a story this was.
Intense emotions flow between the pages of Exposing the Heiress. Watching Alyssa shed her guilt and become the woman her mother would have wanted her to be was a joy. Watching her fall in love with a strong man instead of allowing a weak one (her step father) to manipulate her or an evil one (her fiance) to try and control her was amazing. Watching Hunter walk through his nightmares into the light was equally stunning. Touching, intense, poignant and totally beautiful.
What this book really shares is that you don't need gimics to tell a beautiful story you just need talent.. LOL..
Great Book.
Shauni
This review is based on the ARC of Exposing the Heiress, provided by netgalley.
Exposing the Heiress just proves the case that if it walks like an author and talks like an author.then it's an author. Written by Jenifer Apodaca AKA Jennifer Lyon, author of my very beloved Wing Slayer Hunters, it explodes from the pages from the very beginning.
Book three of her once a marine series it soars in it's very own way.
Alyssa Brooks was the beloved daughter of a Hollywood icon, as a teenager she was driving the car that skid from the road and killed her mother. Living with the guilt she has done everything possible to be the brand of the family business. Helping her stepfather every way she could. Only when she finds out that her fiance is actually in cahoots with said stepfather, that it was all a scam she was infuriated and broke of the engagement. Only her fiance was more evil than she ever dreamed and he threatened the child she had given up for adoption. The child she loved so dearly that she wanted only for him to have a normal life. Either marry him or the child is in danger.. yeah right. Alyssa might feel guilty but she's not stupid. Turning to the Once a Marine Agency and asking for the one man she knows she can trust, Hunter Reece.
Hunter Reece was raised in an artistic, peace loving family but no matter their personal beliefs each person was encouraged to follow his/her own path. Hunter's path led to the marines, where he became a decorated sniper. Only he got too good at it and realized that each kill was taking parts of his soul and it was time to get out or loose what little was left. Hampered by nightmares he sculpts for therapy but he makes his living at Once a Marine, an elite bodyguard service. When he is called in to guard former family friend Alyssa Brooks he is conflicted, furious that she turned her back on his family, worried about the threats against her and the worst part? He wants her..
The thing about military suspense is it's a very "in" sub genre. It is easy to get lost among the others, fortunately for us Jennifer knows how to tell a story. It doesn't matter if it's PNR (Wing Slayer Hunters), Erotica (Plus One) or Military Suspense, it's not the genre it's the story. And what a story this was.
Intense emotions flow between the pages of Exposing the Heiress. Watching Alyssa shed her guilt and become the woman her mother would have wanted her to be was a joy. Watching her fall in love with a strong man instead of allowing a weak one (her step father) to manipulate her or an evil one (her fiance) to try and control her was amazing. Watching Hunter walk through his nightmares into the light was equally stunning. Touching, intense, poignant and totally beautiful.
What this book really shares is that you don't need gimics to tell a beautiful story you just need talent.. LOL..
Great Book.
Shauni
This review is based on the ARC of Exposing the Heiress, provided by netgalley.
August 9, 2015
4.5 / 5 stars
Received a copy of the title from published in exchange for an honest review.
This was likely the best cover, thus far, in the series. The other two covers are very much Entangled-style covers, so when this one came across, I was very... aesthetically happy ;) Granted, I haven't read the other books, but...
This series follows men who are working for Once a Marine, a security firm, if you will, that is comprised of Marines who are no longer active. This book follows former sniper, Hunter Reece.
The very last job he wants is to play body guard for a wealthy heiress, but when his boss tells him the name of his charge (after she'd specifically asked for Hunt by name), he decides to go with it -- after all, Alyssa Brooks was his little sister's best friend when they were younger.
Alyssa is very much grown up when he sees her again, but he can't help but try to keep her in pig-tailed "Lyssie" category. While at first he's not so sure about this keeping her safe from the ex thing, it's when she says it's the son she gave up for adoption that she's most concerned for, that gets Hunt's feet moving.
To keep her safe, he takes her back to the vineyard that they spent many summers at.
I loved every moment of this title. It was my first look at the writing style of Jennifer Apodaca, and hers is a style I'm sure I won't get sick of. The book was easy to read, emotionally charged... the suspense was on point, the romance was hot, but it was the underlying friendship that did it for me. I loved that Hunt first took the job because Alyssa was, in a sense, family.
I loved the complexity of Alyssa. She was the poster child for the company her mother had run. The only reason why she was still a part of it was because it was her mother's. She hated the fake face she had to put on for public and lived for the day she could only make appearances, and instead of being in the limelight all of the time, being home with her family. When she learns that life wasn't what she thought it was, everything she'd been preparing for was a lie, rather than crumble and accept the blows, she went and did something about it -- to keep her and hers safe.
When they were younger, Alyssa always put Hunter in the 'prince' role, a role that Hunter scoffed at. He always knew he was going to be a Marine, and that was far better than a prince rescuing the damsel in distress.
Hunt has his reasons for wanting to keep Alyssa in firm friend territory, but he can't help but fall for the strong woman in front of him. I loved that he wanted to keep her safe, but also that he didn't everything he could to keep her son safe. While Alyssa had to give her baby up, he was always the most important person in her life, and Hunt makes him important too. Above all else, though, Alyssa comes to mean the world to Hunt, and he will prove it again and again.
"When I ask you this, you need to know I'm asking you as my friend and lover..."
Altogether, this was a sweet read that I very much enjoyed. I found myself another author to follow!
Received a copy of the title from published in exchange for an honest review.
This was likely the best cover, thus far, in the series. The other two covers are very much Entangled-style covers, so when this one came across, I was very... aesthetically happy ;) Granted, I haven't read the other books, but...
This series follows men who are working for Once a Marine, a security firm, if you will, that is comprised of Marines who are no longer active. This book follows former sniper, Hunter Reece.
The very last job he wants is to play body guard for a wealthy heiress, but when his boss tells him the name of his charge (after she'd specifically asked for Hunt by name), he decides to go with it -- after all, Alyssa Brooks was his little sister's best friend when they were younger.
Alyssa is very much grown up when he sees her again, but he can't help but try to keep her in pig-tailed "Lyssie" category. While at first he's not so sure about this keeping her safe from the ex thing, it's when she says it's the son she gave up for adoption that she's most concerned for, that gets Hunt's feet moving.
To keep her safe, he takes her back to the vineyard that they spent many summers at.
I loved every moment of this title. It was my first look at the writing style of Jennifer Apodaca, and hers is a style I'm sure I won't get sick of. The book was easy to read, emotionally charged... the suspense was on point, the romance was hot, but it was the underlying friendship that did it for me. I loved that Hunt first took the job because Alyssa was, in a sense, family.
I loved the complexity of Alyssa. She was the poster child for the company her mother had run. The only reason why she was still a part of it was because it was her mother's. She hated the fake face she had to put on for public and lived for the day she could only make appearances, and instead of being in the limelight all of the time, being home with her family. When she learns that life wasn't what she thought it was, everything she'd been preparing for was a lie, rather than crumble and accept the blows, she went and did something about it -- to keep her and hers safe.
When they were younger, Alyssa always put Hunter in the 'prince' role, a role that Hunter scoffed at. He always knew he was going to be a Marine, and that was far better than a prince rescuing the damsel in distress.
Hunt has his reasons for wanting to keep Alyssa in firm friend territory, but he can't help but fall for the strong woman in front of him. I loved that he wanted to keep her safe, but also that he didn't everything he could to keep her son safe. While Alyssa had to give her baby up, he was always the most important person in her life, and Hunt makes him important too. Above all else, though, Alyssa comes to mean the world to Hunt, and he will prove it again and again.
"When I ask you this, you need to know I'm asking you as my friend and lover..."
Altogether, this was a sweet read that I very much enjoyed. I found myself another author to follow!
May 24, 2015
Though this is the third book in the "Once A Marine" series, it can be read as a standalone. Always a good thing in the event this one catches your eye first! However, you will not want to miss out on the previous installments as they are awesome!
There are several tropes in this one story.... the "girl having a crush on the friend's older brother" or the other way around "Hero has crush on little sister's BFF", "child given up for adoption", "ex blackmailing Heroine", and "the man set to protect the heroine falls for her" are just a few of them. There are one ore two more, but don't want to give you any spoilers. These tropes make the story a tad predictable. A bit of a shame because I've eagerly awaiting the next installment for what seemed like forever!
With that said, this is where Jennifer's writing style shines through.... Hunter is man still working through the darkness that was his past job. The job that saved countless lives is now costing him a life of his own. He uses his art as a way to cope with the darkness but doesn't let anyone see this side of himself. Alyssa has blamed herself for the death of her mother years ago and in an effort to make amens, continues to work for the company her mother built even if that isn't what she wants to do. As the blurb says she finds out that her stepfather has paid her fiancé to marry her, she breaks off the engagement and the ex is now blackmailing her, but there is more to that story you find out towards the end of the book. As the story continues, you find out more about Alyssa's past and what her true passions are (work wise). In between all this, Hunter and Alyssa are fighting the attraction they obviously feel for each other. However, you know how that is going to turn out, this is a romance novel after all. I really did enjoy them opening up to each other and the parts where they are becoming friends and learning more about one another.
I would have enjoyed the story more if the last trope (not going to tell you) would not have been included. I don't think it was necessary. Also his reaction wasn't one that I thought he would have had, not after everything that had gone on between them.
This is definitely still a great series and on that I'm going to continue to read. Aside from the tropes that made the story predictable, Jennifer's writing of the character's struggle and their interactions makes you want to read this story!
Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Entangled Publishing, Entangled Ignite via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. This review is my own opinion and not a paid review.
This and other reviews available at Viviana, Enchantress of Books
There are several tropes in this one story.... the "girl having a crush on the friend's older brother" or the other way around "Hero has crush on little sister's BFF", "child given up for adoption", "ex blackmailing Heroine", and "the man set to protect the heroine falls for her" are just a few of them. There are one ore two more, but don't want to give you any spoilers. These tropes make the story a tad predictable. A bit of a shame because I've eagerly awaiting the next installment for what seemed like forever!
With that said, this is where Jennifer's writing style shines through.... Hunter is man still working through the darkness that was his past job. The job that saved countless lives is now costing him a life of his own. He uses his art as a way to cope with the darkness but doesn't let anyone see this side of himself. Alyssa has blamed herself for the death of her mother years ago and in an effort to make amens, continues to work for the company her mother built even if that isn't what she wants to do. As the blurb says she finds out that her stepfather has paid her fiancé to marry her, she breaks off the engagement and the ex is now blackmailing her, but there is more to that story you find out towards the end of the book. As the story continues, you find out more about Alyssa's past and what her true passions are (work wise). In between all this, Hunter and Alyssa are fighting the attraction they obviously feel for each other. However, you know how that is going to turn out, this is a romance novel after all. I really did enjoy them opening up to each other and the parts where they are becoming friends and learning more about one another.
I would have enjoyed the story more if the last trope (not going to tell you) would not have been included. I don't think it was necessary. Also his reaction wasn't one that I thought he would have had, not after everything that had gone on between them.
This is definitely still a great series and on that I'm going to continue to read. Aside from the tropes that made the story predictable, Jennifer's writing of the character's struggle and their interactions makes you want to read this story!
Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Entangled Publishing, Entangled Ignite via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. This review is my own opinion and not a paid review.
This and other reviews available at Viviana, Enchantress of Books
August 5, 2015
First reviewed at Keeper Bookshelf
While Exposing the Heiress is the third novel in the Once A Marine series, it can be read as a stand alone novel in my opinion. So if you are the least bit hesitant to read this because you haven’t checked out the earlier novels, don’t worry – you can catch up later, but don’t miss this one in the meantime.
Hunter Reece left the military when he became too good at his job, when parts of his soul went missing and he made the decision to save himself. His work now also involves dangers, but he can live with this. Until his sister’s childhood best friend comes to him for help. When the past collides with the present in a very grown up woman with a load of trouble on her tail, Hunter realizes he will do anything to keep Alyssa safe.. maybe even from himself.
Alyssa has enough guilt in her life to last a lifetime. The ultimate humiliation comes when she realizes that her stepfather has paid her now former fiance to marry her. Even though Alyssa has called off the wedding, that won’t stop this scumbag from demanding she go through with the marriage or he will harm the son she gave up for adoption years ago. A simple choice in his arrogant opinion – never in hell in Alyssa’s opinion. She turns to the one man she knows she can trust with her life and her son’s… Hunter Reece.
Exposing the Heiress is such an emotional, intriguing and satisfying story to fall into. Two wounded people, wounded in ways not physically obvious but there nonetheless will find their way into each other’s hearts – but not without some time, issues and fighting each other along the way. It was a joy to watch them expose their hearts, thoughts and feelings in ways that eventually brought them closer.
This is a love story at its finest. The story is so well told and realistic that you will not have one moment to think outside of the story. It draws you in and doesn’t let you go until the final word. And that is what a good love story does. It consumes you.
I highly recommend Exposing the Heiress (and the earlier novels in this series) for any reader that simply desires a very good love story. You will find that in this one.
*I received an e-ARC of Exposing the Heiress from the publisher and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. That does not change what I think of this novel.*
(Just an aside for anyone new to Jennifer Apodac’s writing, she also writes paranormals under the name Jennifer Lyons – we who read paranormals know her Wing Slayer Hunters series – but you might not so this is just an FYI that if you enjoyed her writing in contemporary romance you might want to check out her paranormals too. )
While Exposing the Heiress is the third novel in the Once A Marine series, it can be read as a stand alone novel in my opinion. So if you are the least bit hesitant to read this because you haven’t checked out the earlier novels, don’t worry – you can catch up later, but don’t miss this one in the meantime.
Hunter Reece left the military when he became too good at his job, when parts of his soul went missing and he made the decision to save himself. His work now also involves dangers, but he can live with this. Until his sister’s childhood best friend comes to him for help. When the past collides with the present in a very grown up woman with a load of trouble on her tail, Hunter realizes he will do anything to keep Alyssa safe.. maybe even from himself.
Alyssa has enough guilt in her life to last a lifetime. The ultimate humiliation comes when she realizes that her stepfather has paid her now former fiance to marry her. Even though Alyssa has called off the wedding, that won’t stop this scumbag from demanding she go through with the marriage or he will harm the son she gave up for adoption years ago. A simple choice in his arrogant opinion – never in hell in Alyssa’s opinion. She turns to the one man she knows she can trust with her life and her son’s… Hunter Reece.
Exposing the Heiress is such an emotional, intriguing and satisfying story to fall into. Two wounded people, wounded in ways not physically obvious but there nonetheless will find their way into each other’s hearts – but not without some time, issues and fighting each other along the way. It was a joy to watch them expose their hearts, thoughts and feelings in ways that eventually brought them closer.
This is a love story at its finest. The story is so well told and realistic that you will not have one moment to think outside of the story. It draws you in and doesn’t let you go until the final word. And that is what a good love story does. It consumes you.
I highly recommend Exposing the Heiress (and the earlier novels in this series) for any reader that simply desires a very good love story. You will find that in this one.
*I received an e-ARC of Exposing the Heiress from the publisher and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. That does not change what I think of this novel.*
(Just an aside for anyone new to Jennifer Apodac’s writing, she also writes paranormals under the name Jennifer Lyons – we who read paranormals know her Wing Slayer Hunters series – but you might not so this is just an FYI that if you enjoyed her writing in contemporary romance you might want to check out her paranormals too. )
August 2, 2015
Can a Marine become a Prince?
The third installment in Once a Marine was a very sweet, nice read that left me wanting more. I loved these two characters and loved Hunter when he was first introduced. Alyssa and Hunter knew each other from their childhood but when he left to be a Marine they never saw each other again. That was until she needed protection from the man she was supposed to marry, a Marine that would keep her safe.
Alyssa knew what she wanted and she thought that she would be able to have that with Nate. But one day she over heard her fiancé and stepfather talking and she knew what she needed to do and that was break off her engagement but she didn’t know that her fiancé would threaten her life. When Hunter saw her and knew she needed protection there was no way he would not protect her.
Alyssa had secrets that nobody knew but her ex-fiancé and two other people and now all of that could get leaked. But she also felt responsible for her mother’s death but she needed to keep that secret as safe as she could. Then there was Hunter a sniper with the Marine’s but to him being a sniper tainted him. When he left the Marine’s something happened with the woman he was going out with. There was a shooting at a mall where a man started shooting and he went into sniper mode. The woman he was seeing saw him as a monster and didn’t want anything to do with him and from that point forward he became cold. Only that the more time he and Alyssa spent together feelings that he hadn’t felt in a long time were being felt. But when things got a little heated between them something happened and he realized that he needed to protect her not feel her up. Only that Alyssa wanted him and she was going to get him.
Exposing the Heiress was a great read. This story was not only filled with romance, steamy sex but also a suspense if Hunter and Alyssa were going to make it to the happily ever after that was meant to be. Hunter was a protector, a man that had demons but he needed to see that he was a hero, that he was a man that could love. Alyssa was a strong, fierce woman that would not let her fiancé ruin her life but she also needed to learn to trust Hunter. She needed to realize that she was famous and anything could get leaked and could ruin everything. The storyline was perfect and the characters were well developed.
Now I wonder if Sienna Lorrey will be getting her story.
Received ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an Honest Review
The third installment in Once a Marine was a very sweet, nice read that left me wanting more. I loved these two characters and loved Hunter when he was first introduced. Alyssa and Hunter knew each other from their childhood but when he left to be a Marine they never saw each other again. That was until she needed protection from the man she was supposed to marry, a Marine that would keep her safe.
Alyssa knew what she wanted and she thought that she would be able to have that with Nate. But one day she over heard her fiancé and stepfather talking and she knew what she needed to do and that was break off her engagement but she didn’t know that her fiancé would threaten her life. When Hunter saw her and knew she needed protection there was no way he would not protect her.
Alyssa had secrets that nobody knew but her ex-fiancé and two other people and now all of that could get leaked. But she also felt responsible for her mother’s death but she needed to keep that secret as safe as she could. Then there was Hunter a sniper with the Marine’s but to him being a sniper tainted him. When he left the Marine’s something happened with the woman he was going out with. There was a shooting at a mall where a man started shooting and he went into sniper mode. The woman he was seeing saw him as a monster and didn’t want anything to do with him and from that point forward he became cold. Only that the more time he and Alyssa spent together feelings that he hadn’t felt in a long time were being felt. But when things got a little heated between them something happened and he realized that he needed to protect her not feel her up. Only that Alyssa wanted him and she was going to get him.
Exposing the Heiress was a great read. This story was not only filled with romance, steamy sex but also a suspense if Hunter and Alyssa were going to make it to the happily ever after that was meant to be. Hunter was a protector, a man that had demons but he needed to see that he was a hero, that he was a man that could love. Alyssa was a strong, fierce woman that would not let her fiancé ruin her life but she also needed to learn to trust Hunter. She needed to realize that she was famous and anything could get leaked and could ruin everything. The storyline was perfect and the characters were well developed.
Now I wonder if Sienna Lorrey will be getting her story.
Received ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an Honest Review
June 4, 2015
This Marine will protect her at all costs...
When wealthy heiress Alyssa Brooks finds out her stepfather has been paying her fiancé to marry her, she's humiliated and betrayed. She quickly breaks the engagement, only to be blackmailed by her now ex-fiancé, who threatens both Alyssa and the son she gave up for adoption. With nowhere to go, she turns to the one man she can trust.
Former Marine sniper Hunter Reece's lethal skills could save Alyssa's life. But his little sister's best friend has turned into a woman, who is an irresistible mix of secrets and sexiness. And while Hunter can trust himself to protect her, he can't trust himself to keep his attraction hidden...or even pretend to be the man that Alyssa remembers.
Because the only way to keep the lovely heiress safe is to become the one thing he knows she could never love...a killer.
Review:
This is the second book in this series that I have read that revolve around the men who work for Once a Marine. Like all of the other stories, or at least the two I have read this Marine is suffering from PTSD. This is the third book in the series, but it is totally stand-alone. We do see and hear of characters from other books, but again, reading the others in sequence is not necessary.
I liked that Alyssa is smart, loving and determined; she has suffered the loss of both parents at a young age and made the decision to give up her child for adoption at 17, strong, strong woman. When she goes to her childhood friend, Hunter to help her with her ex-fiance, she is going to the one person she can trust. Hunter is back from the Marines where he was a sniper and the things he has had to do has changed him and he thinks he is too damaged for anyone, especially Lyssie. But, Alyssa wants to understand, help and love Hunter, since he is her first crush and such a stand-up guy. I think the author did a great job of making both Hunter and Alyssa seem real and that so many can relate to different aspects of the story. You can feel the chemistry between the two and is was a great watching them come together.
A well-rounded story that had great emotion, drama, romance with a little action and suspense throw in.
3.5 Stars
*Received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for a fair and honest review*
When wealthy heiress Alyssa Brooks finds out her stepfather has been paying her fiancé to marry her, she's humiliated and betrayed. She quickly breaks the engagement, only to be blackmailed by her now ex-fiancé, who threatens both Alyssa and the son she gave up for adoption. With nowhere to go, she turns to the one man she can trust.
Former Marine sniper Hunter Reece's lethal skills could save Alyssa's life. But his little sister's best friend has turned into a woman, who is an irresistible mix of secrets and sexiness. And while Hunter can trust himself to protect her, he can't trust himself to keep his attraction hidden...or even pretend to be the man that Alyssa remembers.
Because the only way to keep the lovely heiress safe is to become the one thing he knows she could never love...a killer.
Review:
This is the second book in this series that I have read that revolve around the men who work for Once a Marine. Like all of the other stories, or at least the two I have read this Marine is suffering from PTSD. This is the third book in the series, but it is totally stand-alone. We do see and hear of characters from other books, but again, reading the others in sequence is not necessary.
I liked that Alyssa is smart, loving and determined; she has suffered the loss of both parents at a young age and made the decision to give up her child for adoption at 17, strong, strong woman. When she goes to her childhood friend, Hunter to help her with her ex-fiance, she is going to the one person she can trust. Hunter is back from the Marines where he was a sniper and the things he has had to do has changed him and he thinks he is too damaged for anyone, especially Lyssie. But, Alyssa wants to understand, help and love Hunter, since he is her first crush and such a stand-up guy. I think the author did a great job of making both Hunter and Alyssa seem real and that so many can relate to different aspects of the story. You can feel the chemistry between the two and is was a great watching them come together.
A well-rounded story that had great emotion, drama, romance with a little action and suspense throw in.
3.5 Stars
*Received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for a fair and honest review*
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