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Survivors’ Justice #2
One Defining Second
One defining second can change a person’s life forever.
For Dax Keller, that second came with a promise he can’t possibly keep; to protect his best friend’s sister at all costs. There’s only one problem. Balancing the weight of his promise with his crushing attraction to the feisty redhead has proven to be impossible. He’s made so many mistakes, told so many lies, she curses the ground he walks on when he needs her to trust him the most.
The star witness in a federal human trafficking case, someone wants Rebecca Danes silenced, permanently. And now, the one man who’s cost her nearly everything, wants to protect her? The only person she and her misguided libido need protection from is him! She has a case to solve, a child to rescue from the clutches of a ruthless human trafficking ring, and nothing or no one—not even the demi-god of testosterone, Dax Keller—is going to stop her.
When Dax joins Rebecca on an international race to save a young boy from a brutal fate, he discovers the true impossibility of his task. Moving hell and earth to keep her out of an assassin’s crosshairs will be the easy part. Earning Rebecca’s forgiveness, and ultimately her heart, may kill them both.
HEAT WARNING: One Defining Second is a fast-paced, heart-pounding romantic thriller about survival. Dax and Rebecca's story takes you deep into the underworld of human trafficking and the monsters that live there are very real. Contains liberally descriptive sexual content, Alpha males who use gritty language, fight hard for the innocent, and love their women even harder. Reader discretion is advised.
Genre: Romantic Thriller, Romantic Suspense, Crime Fiction, Action-Adventure, Organized Crime, Fiction For Women Standalone Novel With Interconnected Characters.
For Dax Keller, that second came with a promise he can’t possibly keep; to protect his best friend’s sister at all costs. There’s only one problem. Balancing the weight of his promise with his crushing attraction to the feisty redhead has proven to be impossible. He’s made so many mistakes, told so many lies, she curses the ground he walks on when he needs her to trust him the most.
The star witness in a federal human trafficking case, someone wants Rebecca Danes silenced, permanently. And now, the one man who’s cost her nearly everything, wants to protect her? The only person she and her misguided libido need protection from is him! She has a case to solve, a child to rescue from the clutches of a ruthless human trafficking ring, and nothing or no one—not even the demi-god of testosterone, Dax Keller—is going to stop her.
When Dax joins Rebecca on an international race to save a young boy from a brutal fate, he discovers the true impossibility of his task. Moving hell and earth to keep her out of an assassin’s crosshairs will be the easy part. Earning Rebecca’s forgiveness, and ultimately her heart, may kill them both.
HEAT WARNING: One Defining Second is a fast-paced, heart-pounding romantic thriller about survival. Dax and Rebecca's story takes you deep into the underworld of human trafficking and the monsters that live there are very real. Contains liberally descriptive sexual content, Alpha males who use gritty language, fight hard for the innocent, and love their women even harder. Reader discretion is advised.
Genre: Romantic Thriller, Romantic Suspense, Crime Fiction, Action-Adventure, Organized Crime, Fiction For Women Standalone Novel With Interconnected Characters.
Kindle Edition
First published August 14, 2015
28 people are currently reading
236 people want to read
About the author
D.L. Roan
18 books420 followersUSA Today and International Bestselling Author D.L. Roan loves combining fantasy with the real world, giving her readers more than just a romantic story, but a true adventure in love. She writes about life: the good, bad, the silly things, the hard things, and everything in between. "If I can give someone a break from all the craziness that comes with real life, maybe even make them smile, or turn a bad day into a fantastic one, then it's all been worth it." ~ D.L. Roan
She's a native Floridian, a rare breed in a land of snow birds. Scuba diving and hunting for shark's teeth on the beach are two of her favorite things. She loves rainy days, thunderstorms and is an avid dog lover. Yes, size matters. She hopes to one day add a big ol' floppy Great Dane to her family of hounds.
For exclusive details and free stories by D.L., visit her website www.dlroan.com and subscribe to her newsletter. She loves chatting with her friends and fans on Facebook. Check out the links in the back of her books for details about her secret fan group where she hangs out with her fans who get first dibs on all her sexy stories!
The McLendon Family Saga Reading Order:
(1) The Heart of Falcon Ridge
(2) A McLendon Christmas
(3) Rock Star Cowboys
(4) Rock Star Cowboys: The Honeymoon
(5) The Hardest Goodbyes
(6) Return to Falcon Ridge
Survivors' Justice Series Reading Order:
(1) Surviving Redemption
(2) One Defining Second
Standalones:
Blindfold Fantasy: A Novel Menage
She's a native Floridian, a rare breed in a land of snow birds. Scuba diving and hunting for shark's teeth on the beach are two of her favorite things. She loves rainy days, thunderstorms and is an avid dog lover. Yes, size matters. She hopes to one day add a big ol' floppy Great Dane to her family of hounds.
For exclusive details and free stories by D.L., visit her website www.dlroan.com and subscribe to her newsletter. She loves chatting with her friends and fans on Facebook. Check out the links in the back of her books for details about her secret fan group where she hangs out with her fans who get first dibs on all her sexy stories!
The McLendon Family Saga Reading Order:
(1) The Heart of Falcon Ridge
(2) A McLendon Christmas
(3) Rock Star Cowboys
(4) Rock Star Cowboys: The Honeymoon
(5) The Hardest Goodbyes
(6) Return to Falcon Ridge
Survivors' Justice Series Reading Order:
(1) Surviving Redemption
(2) One Defining Second
Standalones:
Blindfold Fantasy: A Novel Menage
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
August 26, 2015
Review: Surj
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My first experience of DL Roan was "Second Nature" and wow, did that book absolutely blow my mind. The characters, the originality of the story line, the twists, the edge of your seat, heart palpitations mystery and suspense... you name it, that book had it and when I turned the last page, I knew I had been on one hell of an amazing journey. So I was thrilled to bits when I discovered that this author had released another book in the "When Seconds Count" series where I would be getting Dax and Rebecca's story... two characters I'd been introduced to in the previous book.
"One Defining Second" started off really well. The prologue immediately grabbing my attention and the first couple of chapters definitely leaving me wanting more. I mean Rebecca appeared to be one kick ass, feisty heroine who was trying to do the right thing but seemed to constantly get it wrong and Dax... well what can I say other than he had smoking hot alpha written all over him. The visuals were also there very much like the first book so I could see everything playing out in my head which was great. But then somewhere in the first twenty percent, the story lost my attention. I don't know whether it was the in depth narrative on the trafficking or all the many names that were linked to the criminal activity and where they fit in or whether it was the slow build up to the couple ending up in Brazil... I don't know but I'm so gutted this book didn't end up working for me.
Even Rebecca ended up driving me crazy and she was someone I'd really liked to begin with. I'd really taken to her and understood her despair when it came to the plight of the children she was desperately trying to save. But then I saw another side to her. A side that was almost brattish, child like even and I wanted to give her a good shake. On top of that, there was the constant push/ pull, will she/ won't she with Dax that frustrated the hell out of me. I loved Dax's character and her behaviour towards him completely pissed me off. Initially I understood why she was angry but when her behaviour continued, despite his explanations, it was a step too far (in my opinion). Unlike Grant and Thalia, the constant bickering between this couple wasn't entertaining or humorous at all but instead felt somewhat tedious and repetitive. Just when I thought it was done with or that I had a reprieve, they were at it again and usually instigated by Rebecca!!!
Everything about Dax Kellar was what I love in my heroes. He was hot and sexy and 100% alpha. Plus there was a gentle, loving, protective, tender side to him that had me going weak at the knees. He really did give Grant a run for his money.
I loved that Thalia and Grant featured quite heavily in this book. It was great catching up with them and seeing where their life had taken them. Let's just say, there was never a quiet moment where this couple were concerned. And Winston... now that monkey definitely brought some much needed humour. His antics really did have my cheeks hurting from the constant smiling and laughing. He really was something else.
So all in all, I guess I was somewhat disappointed in how Rebecca and Dax's story unraveled. There were times I was confused, moments I felt I'd lost the plot and unfortunately my dislike for Rebecca really didn't help matters. I did love this author's previous books so I will definitely pick up whatever she brings out next. Unfortunately it was just this one that didn't particularly work for me.
I rated "One Defining Second" ❤️❤️❤️
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheHopelessR...
TSU: http://www.tsu.co/HopelessRomantics
Blog: http://thehopelessromanticsbookblog.b...
My first experience of DL Roan was "Second Nature" and wow, did that book absolutely blow my mind. The characters, the originality of the story line, the twists, the edge of your seat, heart palpitations mystery and suspense... you name it, that book had it and when I turned the last page, I knew I had been on one hell of an amazing journey. So I was thrilled to bits when I discovered that this author had released another book in the "When Seconds Count" series where I would be getting Dax and Rebecca's story... two characters I'd been introduced to in the previous book.
"One Defining Second" started off really well. The prologue immediately grabbing my attention and the first couple of chapters definitely leaving me wanting more. I mean Rebecca appeared to be one kick ass, feisty heroine who was trying to do the right thing but seemed to constantly get it wrong and Dax... well what can I say other than he had smoking hot alpha written all over him. The visuals were also there very much like the first book so I could see everything playing out in my head which was great. But then somewhere in the first twenty percent, the story lost my attention. I don't know whether it was the in depth narrative on the trafficking or all the many names that were linked to the criminal activity and where they fit in or whether it was the slow build up to the couple ending up in Brazil... I don't know but I'm so gutted this book didn't end up working for me.
Even Rebecca ended up driving me crazy and she was someone I'd really liked to begin with. I'd really taken to her and understood her despair when it came to the plight of the children she was desperately trying to save. But then I saw another side to her. A side that was almost brattish, child like even and I wanted to give her a good shake. On top of that, there was the constant push/ pull, will she/ won't she with Dax that frustrated the hell out of me. I loved Dax's character and her behaviour towards him completely pissed me off. Initially I understood why she was angry but when her behaviour continued, despite his explanations, it was a step too far (in my opinion). Unlike Grant and Thalia, the constant bickering between this couple wasn't entertaining or humorous at all but instead felt somewhat tedious and repetitive. Just when I thought it was done with or that I had a reprieve, they were at it again and usually instigated by Rebecca!!!
Everything about Dax Kellar was what I love in my heroes. He was hot and sexy and 100% alpha. Plus there was a gentle, loving, protective, tender side to him that had me going weak at the knees. He really did give Grant a run for his money.
I loved that Thalia and Grant featured quite heavily in this book. It was great catching up with them and seeing where their life had taken them. Let's just say, there was never a quiet moment where this couple were concerned. And Winston... now that monkey definitely brought some much needed humour. His antics really did have my cheeks hurting from the constant smiling and laughing. He really was something else.
So all in all, I guess I was somewhat disappointed in how Rebecca and Dax's story unraveled. There were times I was confused, moments I felt I'd lost the plot and unfortunately my dislike for Rebecca really didn't help matters. I did love this author's previous books so I will definitely pick up whatever she brings out next. Unfortunately it was just this one that didn't particularly work for me.
I rated "One Defining Second" ❤️❤️❤️
December 20, 2015
I can't say how sad I am that I cannot give this book more than 3 stars. I am a huge fan of D.L. Roan's work and loved every single one of her novels so far, so it breaks my heart that One defining second didn't really work for me.
I was stoked when I first read the blurb. Familiar characters, a protective FBI agent, a heroine I loved in the prequel, a continuation of the already established storyline of human trafficking. I even knew I would enjoy the author's writing. So there was lots of potential there. And neither the story nor the writing style disappointed. It was gripping and intense, well researched (I love that D.L. Roan is committed to the war against human trafficking!), equally romantic and sexy (despite the serious subject).
It was the characters I had an issue with.
As I said, I enjoyed Rebecca as a character in Second Nature. She was kick-ass and proud and kind. Didn't care much for Dax, though, but I was sure I was going to get my mind changed, as the author seems to have a talent for turning rather unappealing side charactes into fantastic heroes (see Grant Kendal). Safe to say I was disappointed to find that, for the most part, I didn't like either of them as a main character.
Up until about 70%, Dax was either overbearing or sappy, while Rebecca alternated between being petulant and insecure. Still, there were a few moments when both of them seemed to come to their senses and I got my hopes up, only to have them crushed again with their next pointless argument. Good news, though: Grant and Thalia (and even Winston, yay!) from the second book played important roles throughout the book. We even got a few chapters from Grant's POV and I thoroughly enjoyed them.
After the 70% mark, though, Dax and Rebecca improved a lot, and I was happy for a while. BUT: as I came to like those two, I came to despise Grant for his actions. And that's the worst thing that could have happened to me because he used to be one of my favorite heroes ever. So, yeah. Major disappointment on that score.
However, seeing this book has only got 5-star ratings and ecstatic reviews so far, I seem to be pretty much on my own with my opinion on it. I don't regret buying and reading it, so I guess this is still a recommendation.
I was stoked when I first read the blurb. Familiar characters, a protective FBI agent, a heroine I loved in the prequel, a continuation of the already established storyline of human trafficking. I even knew I would enjoy the author's writing. So there was lots of potential there. And neither the story nor the writing style disappointed. It was gripping and intense, well researched (I love that D.L. Roan is committed to the war against human trafficking!), equally romantic and sexy (despite the serious subject).
It was the characters I had an issue with.
As I said, I enjoyed Rebecca as a character in Second Nature. She was kick-ass and proud and kind. Didn't care much for Dax, though, but I was sure I was going to get my mind changed, as the author seems to have a talent for turning rather unappealing side charactes into fantastic heroes (see Grant Kendal). Safe to say I was disappointed to find that, for the most part, I didn't like either of them as a main character.
Up until about 70%, Dax was either overbearing or sappy, while Rebecca alternated between being petulant and insecure. Still, there were a few moments when both of them seemed to come to their senses and I got my hopes up, only to have them crushed again with their next pointless argument. Good news, though: Grant and Thalia (and even Winston, yay!) from the second book played important roles throughout the book. We even got a few chapters from Grant's POV and I thoroughly enjoyed them.
After the 70% mark, though, Dax and Rebecca improved a lot, and I was happy for a while. BUT: as I came to like those two, I came to despise Grant for his actions. And that's the worst thing that could have happened to me because he used to be one of my favorite heroes ever. So, yeah. Major disappointment on that score.
However, seeing this book has only got 5-star ratings and ecstatic reviews so far, I seem to be pretty much on my own with my opinion on it. I don't regret buying and reading it, so I guess this is still a recommendation.
August 17, 2015
I was so lucky to win an ARC of this book and was I one happy reader! I absolutely loved this book!! I was introduced to the When Seconds Count series by a friend and was just finishing book two when I won this and was so excited that I read far into the night not wanting to put it down.
I strongly recommend reading the other two books in the series just to get the background on everyone.
I'm not writing a blurb here you can read the one already written. This story is so moving. She takes a very problem of human trafficking and brings it to our attention in such a tasteful manner. The storyline and character development is so well done. I fell in love with Dax and Rebecca when I met them in book 2 and this is there story and I cried and laughed while reading this. My heart was breaking for the victims and their families. Ms Roan has such a way of telling a story that you feel like you are a part of the story.
I highly recommend this book!
Thank you Ms Roan for an amazing book....amazing series! You have quickly become a favorite author of mine!
I strongly recommend reading the other two books in the series just to get the background on everyone.
I'm not writing a blurb here you can read the one already written. This story is so moving. She takes a very problem of human trafficking and brings it to our attention in such a tasteful manner. The storyline and character development is so well done. I fell in love with Dax and Rebecca when I met them in book 2 and this is there story and I cried and laughed while reading this. My heart was breaking for the victims and their families. Ms Roan has such a way of telling a story that you feel like you are a part of the story.
I highly recommend this book!
Thank you Ms Roan for an amazing book....amazing series! You have quickly become a favorite author of mine!
August 17, 2015
I have been a fan of DL Roan for almost 2 years. Her series, When Seconds Count, captured me from the beginning but it was the second book, Second Nature that cemented my love for her work. And with every book it continues to grow.
One Defining Second… WOW!!!! Ms. Roans work was my first experience into the world of human trafficking & with each book in this series she brings it more & more to life & opens my eyes to the overwhelming problem it is & continues to be, in our world.
We first met Rebecca Danes & Dax Keller in Second Nature. And even though this is their book, we also get to catch up with our old friends Grant & Thalia, which I totally loved. Rebecca’s mission in life is to save those who cannot save themselves (specifically, from human traffickers) & she does this with a passion that often gets her into trouble. As it did when she was working for the FBI, which is where she first met Dax. She has since left the Bureau & moved to Boston, where she is trying to get a job with an international group that finds & breaks up human trafficking rings.
Dax has been keeping secrets from Rebecca, quite a few secrets. When he shows up in Boston Rebecca wants nothing to do with him. But that isn’t going to work for him, he is on a mission to protect her, even from what he considers her own headstrong choices. Whether she likes it or not!!!
What follows is a fantastic story that will keep you on the edge of your seat. You will definitely cry, at least once or twice, & you will most assuredly get so angry that you will yell at your kindle. What you won’t be is bored!!!! Thank you, Ms. Roan, for another fantastic book. In my opinion, the best you have written to date!!!
One Defining Second… WOW!!!! Ms. Roans work was my first experience into the world of human trafficking & with each book in this series she brings it more & more to life & opens my eyes to the overwhelming problem it is & continues to be, in our world.
We first met Rebecca Danes & Dax Keller in Second Nature. And even though this is their book, we also get to catch up with our old friends Grant & Thalia, which I totally loved. Rebecca’s mission in life is to save those who cannot save themselves (specifically, from human traffickers) & she does this with a passion that often gets her into trouble. As it did when she was working for the FBI, which is where she first met Dax. She has since left the Bureau & moved to Boston, where she is trying to get a job with an international group that finds & breaks up human trafficking rings.
Dax has been keeping secrets from Rebecca, quite a few secrets. When he shows up in Boston Rebecca wants nothing to do with him. But that isn’t going to work for him, he is on a mission to protect her, even from what he considers her own headstrong choices. Whether she likes it or not!!!
What follows is a fantastic story that will keep you on the edge of your seat. You will definitely cry, at least once or twice, & you will most assuredly get so angry that you will yell at your kindle. What you won’t be is bored!!!! Thank you, Ms. Roan, for another fantastic book. In my opinion, the best you have written to date!!!
December 17, 2016
CAPTIVATING, SEXY AND DIVINELY SUSPENSEFUL !!!
Title: One Defining Second
Series: Survivors' Justice
Designation: Book Two of Series, Remastered Full-Length Standalone(282 pages), NO Cliffhanger (Originally Published Title: Second Nature)
Author: D.L. Roan
Genre: Contemporary Romantic Thriller/Suspense
Reading Edition: Kindle Edition
My Rating: Five Sexy Riveting Stars*****
Oh my! Oh my! Oh my! I love, love, love this book! D.L. Roan just rocked my world with One Defining Second, the second pulse-pounding release in the Survivors' Justice Series. I had never even heard of D.L. Roan until a friend recommended a book entitled The Heart of Falcon Ridge a few months ago. I decided to check it out and so glad I did! Best decision EVER! I began reading my way through her library of published work and discovered in addition to erotic romance, she also writes romantic suspense which just happens to be favorite romance sub-genre. I adore action and adventure, addicted to mystery and suspense, and adore steamy romance but when I can find the perfect combination of every single one of those elements in one book, I'm in heaven and that's exactly what D.L. Roan has delivered with One Defining Second. I'm 65 years young and have been a passionate lover of books for 60 of those years so as you can imagine, I've read thousands and thousands of books but it's been a long time since I was so excited over a newly discovered author. Where has this woman been and why haven't I heard of her before now is beyond me! Roan is an incredibly gifted author who excels at creating fictional yet believable current day scenarios within intriguing interconnected worlds populated with strong, realistic, relatable characters who literally explode from the pages, grab your attention, engage your imagination and completely capture your heart. Although the worlds and many of the characters cross over into several of her books, they can all be read as a standalone and each have their own happy ending. I fell in love with Roan's natural, easy flowing style and suspense filled storylines. I was completely smitten and couldn't stop with Surviving Redemption, the first book of the Survivors' Justice Series; I immediately raced back to Amazon and purchased the second release in the Survivors' Justice Series, Once Defining Second. And WOW! I thought the first book was great but I loved, loved, loved the second even more! One Defining Second is a sexy, exciting, action-packed, fast-paced, exceptionally well-crafted and edited full-length standalone contemporary romance thriller filled to the brim with heart-stopping danger, pulse-pounding action, heart-wrenching drama, spine-tingling suspense, perplexing mystery, agonizing angst, mind-blowing plot twists, heartwarming romance and steamy, dreamy sex.
But as usual, I digress, so let's talk a few specifics about this story. The narrative is beautifully written in the third person with multiple perspectives, which, when done correctly, gives the reader so much more insight into each character's thoughts. Constantly changing to different points of view can be tricky for the author and exhausting for the reader if not done properly but Roan did an extraordinary job and focused primarily on the two protagonists of the story, former Deputy Director of the International Organized Crime Intel Division Dax Keller and beautiful, determined former agent Rebecca 'Red' Danes. We also get occasional secondary perspectives from the protagonists of the first book, former government assassin Grant Kendal and sex trade victim Thalia Brezlin Kendal. And we even get a quick sneak peek into the mind of the dastardly villain, billionaire philanthropist Vasilie Soren. It was RIVETING! The dialogue is intelligent, natural, well executed and flows effortlessly. I must admit, the sex trafficking premise for this story is quite controversial but one very near and dear to my heart and Roan certainly did her research for this story and did it exceptionally well. But without a doubt, my favorite component is the cast of intriguing characters. They are captivating, engaging, endearing and well developed. Our two protagonists, Dax Keller and Rebecca Danes, were both introduced as secondary characters in the first book of the series, Surviving Redemption. I wasn't sure I liked either of them until Roan gave them their own book and oh my, I became immediately smitten with this couple and their explosive relationship. There was so much more to discover about this unlikely pair of lovers. It doesn't take the reader long to learn that Dax and Rebecca's deceased brother Griff were best friends and had served in the military together in Afghanistan. And Dax had been secretly in love with Rebecca for years.... since seeing her on a Skype call with Griff while deployed in Afghanistan. Dax had promised Griff he would take care of Rebecca and make sure she was safe. Of course, it went against 'the bro code' to fall in love with his dead best friend's little sister so his love was unrequited until....well, you'll have to read the book. But let's just say, Rebecca is a fiery redhead who doesn't like the controlling, high-handed tactics of her boss Dax Keller and, boy oh boy, did she ever let him know it. She even quit her job because of him and moved to Boston. But never fear, Dax follows her and things really begin to heat up in chilly Boston! I fell in love with Rebecca's courage and determination to rescue the children who were being used as sex slaves. She was phenomenal and a perfect match for Dax. Their interaction was explosive and their sexual chemistry was so hot it sizzled! Did I like this book? No, I loved it! Roan didn't just tug at my heartstrings with this one; she literally ripped my heart right out of my chest and left me gasping for my next breath! At one point, I wanted to hide under the covers! My emotions ran the entire gambit from excited to sad to angry to disappointed to hopeful to heartbroken and finally to happy. It made me laugh! It made me cry! It made me shake my fists with indignation and outrage! It made me cringe in disbelief and horror! I was totally enthralled! And loved every single minute! I was glued to my ereader with my heart fluttering wildly in my chest, the hours passing as quickly as the pages! It was magnificent! Would I recommend it? You bet, but only for adults since it does contain some steamy,dreamy sex scenes. Will I read this author again? Absolutely! Decisions, decisions...now I have to decide which of Roan's books I want to read next. lol... And finally, was I entertained? Totally! Fabulous entertainment and an awesome read.
Dax Keller was determined to keep the promise he made to Griffin Danes as his buddy lay dying in his arms, no matter the cost. Griff had been more than just his best friend; they had been like brothers and he would protect Griff's sister, Rebecca Danes, even if it killed him and it just might. It had been a whole lot easier to keep her safe as long as he was her boss but the beautiful fiery redhead had quit and moved to Boston. Well, that left only one thing for him to do...quit his job and move to Boston as well. He had fallen in love with the hard-headed, flame-haired beauty years ago when he and Griff were serving together in Afghanistan but Dax had never told a soul about his feelings for Rebecca and he had no intentions of ever letting the cat out of the bag but Rebecca was being so darn reckless and was now a witness in a government case against some very dangerous people and they want her dead. Oh my! Apparently, the only way he can protect her is to reveal his presence in Boston and stay glued to her side. How can he keep her safe and not reveal his feelings for her? He can't! Buckle up, my lovelies, and get ready for a wild ride as Rebecca and Dax begin a dangerous adventure that will take them across the globe to rescue a child being held and abused by sex traffickers... but, at least, it will lead them both to love!
Title: One Defining Second
Series: Survivors' Justice
Designation: Book Two of Series, Remastered Full-Length Standalone(282 pages), NO Cliffhanger (Originally Published Title: Second Nature)
Author: D.L. Roan
Genre: Contemporary Romantic Thriller/Suspense
Reading Edition: Kindle Edition
My Rating: Five Sexy Riveting Stars*****
Oh my! Oh my! Oh my! I love, love, love this book! D.L. Roan just rocked my world with One Defining Second, the second pulse-pounding release in the Survivors' Justice Series. I had never even heard of D.L. Roan until a friend recommended a book entitled The Heart of Falcon Ridge a few months ago. I decided to check it out and so glad I did! Best decision EVER! I began reading my way through her library of published work and discovered in addition to erotic romance, she also writes romantic suspense which just happens to be favorite romance sub-genre. I adore action and adventure, addicted to mystery and suspense, and adore steamy romance but when I can find the perfect combination of every single one of those elements in one book, I'm in heaven and that's exactly what D.L. Roan has delivered with One Defining Second. I'm 65 years young and have been a passionate lover of books for 60 of those years so as you can imagine, I've read thousands and thousands of books but it's been a long time since I was so excited over a newly discovered author. Where has this woman been and why haven't I heard of her before now is beyond me! Roan is an incredibly gifted author who excels at creating fictional yet believable current day scenarios within intriguing interconnected worlds populated with strong, realistic, relatable characters who literally explode from the pages, grab your attention, engage your imagination and completely capture your heart. Although the worlds and many of the characters cross over into several of her books, they can all be read as a standalone and each have their own happy ending. I fell in love with Roan's natural, easy flowing style and suspense filled storylines. I was completely smitten and couldn't stop with Surviving Redemption, the first book of the Survivors' Justice Series; I immediately raced back to Amazon and purchased the second release in the Survivors' Justice Series, Once Defining Second. And WOW! I thought the first book was great but I loved, loved, loved the second even more! One Defining Second is a sexy, exciting, action-packed, fast-paced, exceptionally well-crafted and edited full-length standalone contemporary romance thriller filled to the brim with heart-stopping danger, pulse-pounding action, heart-wrenching drama, spine-tingling suspense, perplexing mystery, agonizing angst, mind-blowing plot twists, heartwarming romance and steamy, dreamy sex.
But as usual, I digress, so let's talk a few specifics about this story. The narrative is beautifully written in the third person with multiple perspectives, which, when done correctly, gives the reader so much more insight into each character's thoughts. Constantly changing to different points of view can be tricky for the author and exhausting for the reader if not done properly but Roan did an extraordinary job and focused primarily on the two protagonists of the story, former Deputy Director of the International Organized Crime Intel Division Dax Keller and beautiful, determined former agent Rebecca 'Red' Danes. We also get occasional secondary perspectives from the protagonists of the first book, former government assassin Grant Kendal and sex trade victim Thalia Brezlin Kendal. And we even get a quick sneak peek into the mind of the dastardly villain, billionaire philanthropist Vasilie Soren. It was RIVETING! The dialogue is intelligent, natural, well executed and flows effortlessly. I must admit, the sex trafficking premise for this story is quite controversial but one very near and dear to my heart and Roan certainly did her research for this story and did it exceptionally well. But without a doubt, my favorite component is the cast of intriguing characters. They are captivating, engaging, endearing and well developed. Our two protagonists, Dax Keller and Rebecca Danes, were both introduced as secondary characters in the first book of the series, Surviving Redemption. I wasn't sure I liked either of them until Roan gave them their own book and oh my, I became immediately smitten with this couple and their explosive relationship. There was so much more to discover about this unlikely pair of lovers. It doesn't take the reader long to learn that Dax and Rebecca's deceased brother Griff were best friends and had served in the military together in Afghanistan. And Dax had been secretly in love with Rebecca for years.... since seeing her on a Skype call with Griff while deployed in Afghanistan. Dax had promised Griff he would take care of Rebecca and make sure she was safe. Of course, it went against 'the bro code' to fall in love with his dead best friend's little sister so his love was unrequited until....well, you'll have to read the book. But let's just say, Rebecca is a fiery redhead who doesn't like the controlling, high-handed tactics of her boss Dax Keller and, boy oh boy, did she ever let him know it. She even quit her job because of him and moved to Boston. But never fear, Dax follows her and things really begin to heat up in chilly Boston! I fell in love with Rebecca's courage and determination to rescue the children who were being used as sex slaves. She was phenomenal and a perfect match for Dax. Their interaction was explosive and their sexual chemistry was so hot it sizzled! Did I like this book? No, I loved it! Roan didn't just tug at my heartstrings with this one; she literally ripped my heart right out of my chest and left me gasping for my next breath! At one point, I wanted to hide under the covers! My emotions ran the entire gambit from excited to sad to angry to disappointed to hopeful to heartbroken and finally to happy. It made me laugh! It made me cry! It made me shake my fists with indignation and outrage! It made me cringe in disbelief and horror! I was totally enthralled! And loved every single minute! I was glued to my ereader with my heart fluttering wildly in my chest, the hours passing as quickly as the pages! It was magnificent! Would I recommend it? You bet, but only for adults since it does contain some steamy,dreamy sex scenes. Will I read this author again? Absolutely! Decisions, decisions...now I have to decide which of Roan's books I want to read next. lol... And finally, was I entertained? Totally! Fabulous entertainment and an awesome read.
Dax Keller was determined to keep the promise he made to Griffin Danes as his buddy lay dying in his arms, no matter the cost. Griff had been more than just his best friend; they had been like brothers and he would protect Griff's sister, Rebecca Danes, even if it killed him and it just might. It had been a whole lot easier to keep her safe as long as he was her boss but the beautiful fiery redhead had quit and moved to Boston. Well, that left only one thing for him to do...quit his job and move to Boston as well. He had fallen in love with the hard-headed, flame-haired beauty years ago when he and Griff were serving together in Afghanistan but Dax had never told a soul about his feelings for Rebecca and he had no intentions of ever letting the cat out of the bag but Rebecca was being so darn reckless and was now a witness in a government case against some very dangerous people and they want her dead. Oh my! Apparently, the only way he can protect her is to reveal his presence in Boston and stay glued to her side. How can he keep her safe and not reveal his feelings for her? He can't! Buckle up, my lovelies, and get ready for a wild ride as Rebecca and Dax begin a dangerous adventure that will take them across the globe to rescue a child being held and abused by sex traffickers... but, at least, it will lead them both to love!
August 17, 2015
*ARC received in return for an honest review.
Worthy of more than 5 stars. Mind blowing!!
Let me start by saying it is recommended Second Nature be read before One Defining Second, to avoid spoilers and get a better understanding of the characters.
One Defining Second is Dax and Rebecca's story and boy, what an exciting, emotional and gripping story it is, my heart was in my mouth for most of the plot. I really wish I could give this so much more than 5 stars, I freakin loved it!!!
We are transported back into the dark and dangerous world of human trafficking. This time with Rebecca and Dax, desperately trying to find a missing young boy, suspected of being sold into child slavery, before it's too late. I am a huge fan of D.L. Roan and simply adore her style of writing, she has a knack of drawing you into the world she has created and believing it is actually playing out in front of you. This is definitely the case with One Defining Second.
I was sucked into the horrific dangers that surround the very real, and growing, organised crime 'industry' of human trafficking, you can feel the author's passion for this running through the book. I won't lie, there is at least one scene that is quite distressing and had me sobbing, especially at the thought that this really does go on. That being so, there are some very funny scenes too which made me laugh out loud. I loved the explosive chemistry between Dax and Rebecca which had me laughing one minute and shouting out loud the next. Daayuuum, they are one hot couple!! For those who have read Second Nature, good news, Grant, Thalia & Winston make an appearance. I LOVE that monkey!
I loved Second Nature and didn't think anything would match the intensity, nail-biting tension and heart-beating-out-of-your-chest suspense but I was so wrong. D.L. Roan really upped her game and brought out the big guns with one. As with all of this author's novels, I was hooked in from the first page and kept there until the last. I absolutely loved this book and can't recommend it highly enough.
Well? What are you waiting for?? Go 1-click One Defining Second today and be prepared to have your mind blown away.
Worthy of more than 5 stars. Mind blowing!!
Let me start by saying it is recommended Second Nature be read before One Defining Second, to avoid spoilers and get a better understanding of the characters.
One Defining Second is Dax and Rebecca's story and boy, what an exciting, emotional and gripping story it is, my heart was in my mouth for most of the plot. I really wish I could give this so much more than 5 stars, I freakin loved it!!!
We are transported back into the dark and dangerous world of human trafficking. This time with Rebecca and Dax, desperately trying to find a missing young boy, suspected of being sold into child slavery, before it's too late. I am a huge fan of D.L. Roan and simply adore her style of writing, she has a knack of drawing you into the world she has created and believing it is actually playing out in front of you. This is definitely the case with One Defining Second.
I was sucked into the horrific dangers that surround the very real, and growing, organised crime 'industry' of human trafficking, you can feel the author's passion for this running through the book. I won't lie, there is at least one scene that is quite distressing and had me sobbing, especially at the thought that this really does go on. That being so, there are some very funny scenes too which made me laugh out loud. I loved the explosive chemistry between Dax and Rebecca which had me laughing one minute and shouting out loud the next. Daayuuum, they are one hot couple!! For those who have read Second Nature, good news, Grant, Thalia & Winston make an appearance. I LOVE that monkey!
I loved Second Nature and didn't think anything would match the intensity, nail-biting tension and heart-beating-out-of-your-chest suspense but I was so wrong. D.L. Roan really upped her game and brought out the big guns with one. As with all of this author's novels, I was hooked in from the first page and kept there until the last. I absolutely loved this book and can't recommend it highly enough.
Well? What are you waiting for?? Go 1-click One Defining Second today and be prepared to have your mind blown away.
August 21, 2015
First met Dax and Rebecca in Second Nature ( one of my very favorite books!), so I was beyond excited to see they were getting their own book. Surpassed all my expectations and has now become another Very Favorite!!
The journey into human trafficking and specifically locating and extracting the children being held captive is both heartwrenching and electrifying.
Rebecca (aka Red) is a renegade when it comes to following orders but has such an intense passion for the kids she is trying to save AND then their is Dax - total overprotective alpha male sexiness, doing his very best to honor the promise made to her brother. Together their off the charts chemistry and sexy banter and fighting will totally captivate you.
As their hunt for the traffickers and the assassins hunt for them heats up, they are joined by Grant and Thalia (still both as badass as ever!). The intensity is now amplified into an emotional heart stopping roller coaster ride that will have the pages simply turning themselves. Grant's love and loyalty to Thalia and putting her safety before all else was a passionate reminder of why I so loved him from the very start!
I loved that at times the intense power of the story was tempered with the comic relief of Winston, the "pretentious little snot" monkey, and his many adventures into getting in trouble and implementing his "no touching his females" rule.
Highly recommend both Second Nature and One Defining Second - DL Roan delivers romantic suspense at it's very Best!!!
Loved Dax's assessment of his power over Rebecca:
"He'd have better luck taming a tornado and teaching it to mix drinks at a night club for tips."
The journey into human trafficking and specifically locating and extracting the children being held captive is both heartwrenching and electrifying.
Rebecca (aka Red) is a renegade when it comes to following orders but has such an intense passion for the kids she is trying to save AND then their is Dax - total overprotective alpha male sexiness, doing his very best to honor the promise made to her brother. Together their off the charts chemistry and sexy banter and fighting will totally captivate you.
As their hunt for the traffickers and the assassins hunt for them heats up, they are joined by Grant and Thalia (still both as badass as ever!). The intensity is now amplified into an emotional heart stopping roller coaster ride that will have the pages simply turning themselves. Grant's love and loyalty to Thalia and putting her safety before all else was a passionate reminder of why I so loved him from the very start!
I loved that at times the intense power of the story was tempered with the comic relief of Winston, the "pretentious little snot" monkey, and his many adventures into getting in trouble and implementing his "no touching his females" rule.
Highly recommend both Second Nature and One Defining Second - DL Roan delivers romantic suspense at it's very Best!!!
Loved Dax's assessment of his power over Rebecca:
"He'd have better luck taming a tornado and teaching it to mix drinks at a night club for tips."
August 18, 2015
I love this series and that DL Roan encompasses a very serious problem....Sex Trafficking! Dax made a promise to his dying friend to protect Rebecca at all cost, which he has done from but in the process he has pushed Rebecca to a point where she doesn't trust him or like him. Dax has to protect Rebecca and he seeks help from some friends...yay..Thalia and Grant! Will Dax be able to protect Rebecca and gain her trust and love? This book is full of action, twist and turns and sexy hot chemistry! Who can be trusted? Who will be betrayed? Will they all make it out alive? Get it now and take a ride! Loved it!
August 17, 2015
Love Dax & Rebecca
As I've said before love this series. Especially Dax and Rebecca's, but my favourite will always be "Second Chances" book 1. This was a great read, brought it and read it in one day. Love the action, the banter and especially how stubborn and hard headed the heroine was, and was equally matched with the hero. Love it!! Can't wait for the next book and hope this series never ends. I love how we get to see other characters from the 2nd book involved in this one too. Thank you DL Roan for another awesome story which I thoroughly enjoyed.
As I've said before love this series. Especially Dax and Rebecca's, but my favourite will always be "Second Chances" book 1. This was a great read, brought it and read it in one day. Love the action, the banter and especially how stubborn and hard headed the heroine was, and was equally matched with the hero. Love it!! Can't wait for the next book and hope this series never ends. I love how we get to see other characters from the 2nd book involved in this one too. Thank you DL Roan for another awesome story which I thoroughly enjoyed.
November 6, 2015
It may be winter in Boston, but the heat is tropical between Dax and Rebecca!
Read full review in the 2015 November issue of InD'tale Magazine.
Read full review in the 2015 November issue of InD'tale Magazine.
December 30, 2015
Another great saga. I enjoy the way DL writes about a subject she is very passionate about. It shows in the story. I was on the edge of my seat not just from the love story but by the drama of them hunting down the bad guys.
January 15, 2017
5 Candi Kisses and The Monkey Man
This second book in a series is action packed and full of action, betrayal, danger, seediness. The story is fast and leaves you holding on. It is a trait I have come to love in D.L. Roan. in 4 books, how long will it take you? Well done again. On to the Twins now...
This second book in a series is action packed and full of action, betrayal, danger, seediness. The story is fast and leaves you holding on. It is a trait I have come to love in D.L. Roan. in 4 books, how long will it take you? Well done again. On to the Twins now...
May 17, 2016
One Defining Second: A Romantic Thriller is book two in the Survivor’s Justice series by D.L. Roan. The series deals with the dreadful practice of sexual slavery and child slavery. D. L. Roan deals with this sensitive subject quite well. He shows how pervasive the practice is worldwide and how lucrative the practice is. He shows how some people risk everything to try to stop this practice. It is an excellent book and is even better than the first one.
Rebecca Danes is determined to make a difference in the child slavery business. She didn’t get her chance in the first book so wants to make it this time, even if she has to do it alone. She tried to get on with Oculus but wasn’t hired. She is set to testify when needed by the federal prosecutors. What she doesn’t know is that she has been put on a kill list and her killer is staking her out.
Dax Keller is determined to follow up on a promise he made to Griff Danes to protect his sister. Dax has fallen in love with Rebecca but hesitates to show it because it doesn’t seem right to fall for his best friend’s little sister. Dax messed things up once with Rebecca and he doesn’t want to do it again; but invariably he will. He is determined to protect her from the assassin who is after her. He insists she go on vacation with him to hide from the assassin. However, they get detoured to Brazil where they work with Grant and Thalia again to thwart child sex slavers. Will they get out of this alive?
Rebecca Danes is determined to make a difference in the child slavery business. She didn’t get her chance in the first book so wants to make it this time, even if she has to do it alone. She tried to get on with Oculus but wasn’t hired. She is set to testify when needed by the federal prosecutors. What she doesn’t know is that she has been put on a kill list and her killer is staking her out.
Dax Keller is determined to follow up on a promise he made to Griff Danes to protect his sister. Dax has fallen in love with Rebecca but hesitates to show it because it doesn’t seem right to fall for his best friend’s little sister. Dax messed things up once with Rebecca and he doesn’t want to do it again; but invariably he will. He is determined to protect her from the assassin who is after her. He insists she go on vacation with him to hide from the assassin. However, they get detoured to Brazil where they work with Grant and Thalia again to thwart child sex slavers. Will they get out of this alive?
January 24, 2016
Once again Roan blew me away with this story. We got to meet Dax and Rebecca a little bit in Surviving Redemption, and so when I found this this book was about them, I couldn’t start it quick enough.
With that being said, no I don’t believe that you have to read Surviving Redemption in order to read this one and fully understand what is going on.
This book kept me on the edge of my seat because I couldn’t wait to find out what was going to happen. Not only between Dax and Rebecca, but with the action that was going on around them. This story really drew me in because while yes, there was the romantic story, there was so much more happening. It wasn’t so much that you couldn’t follow the story by any means, but it was enough that kept me turning the pages and wanting to find out what was going to happen next.
One thing that I have learned about Roan’s characters, the women are just amazing. Not only are they strong women, but they know what they want and aren’t afraid to go after it. And that still rings true for Rebecca. Dax was also equally awesome in this book. The way that he was willing to do anything to keep Rebecca safe and to help her complete her mission.
Overall, I couldn’t get enough of this story and can’t wait to read more in this series in the future.
Reviewed by Crystal Marie for Crystal’s Many Reviewers
*Copy BOUGHT for review*
With that being said, no I don’t believe that you have to read Surviving Redemption in order to read this one and fully understand what is going on.
This book kept me on the edge of my seat because I couldn’t wait to find out what was going to happen. Not only between Dax and Rebecca, but with the action that was going on around them. This story really drew me in because while yes, there was the romantic story, there was so much more happening. It wasn’t so much that you couldn’t follow the story by any means, but it was enough that kept me turning the pages and wanting to find out what was going to happen next.
One thing that I have learned about Roan’s characters, the women are just amazing. Not only are they strong women, but they know what they want and aren’t afraid to go after it. And that still rings true for Rebecca. Dax was also equally awesome in this book. The way that he was willing to do anything to keep Rebecca safe and to help her complete her mission.
Overall, I couldn’t get enough of this story and can’t wait to read more in this series in the future.
Reviewed by Crystal Marie for Crystal’s Many Reviewers
*Copy BOUGHT for review*
June 1, 2016
Great second book in this series. Focusing again on the evil that resides in the world. Having met Dax and Rebecca in Surviving Redemption, we now follow their story of guilt, lies, love and regret, as they battle their feelings for each other as well as the bad guys. Also catching up with Grant and Thalia as they continue with their fight against human traffickers.
Sometimes when you read a series of books where the characters intermingle there is normally at least one that you just don't get or the connection as you read just doesn't happen, I can honestly say that with all of D.L. Roan's books that I have read so far this is not the case. I have become engrossed in all their stories and look forward to hearing what past characters are up to.
Hoping that there will be more in this series, as well as the McLendon family saga in the future.
Sometimes when you read a series of books where the characters intermingle there is normally at least one that you just don't get or the connection as you read just doesn't happen, I can honestly say that with all of D.L. Roan's books that I have read so far this is not the case. I have become engrossed in all their stories and look forward to hearing what past characters are up to.
Hoping that there will be more in this series, as well as the McLendon family saga in the future.
February 22, 2016
Great addition to an already fabulous, exciting and thrilling series!
Dax and Red are really funny and compelling characters though Red can be a little annoying at times with her childish outbursts, but on the plus side she's not a giggler so YAY!
Sadly and heartbreakingly this book delved more deeply into human trafficking and child sex rings, which is not only tragic but disgusting as well, the lengths high profile people will go through to be a part of something so fucking evil.
We get to meet a bunch of new colorful and sexy characters, plus not only are Grant and Thalia here as well but so is their cheeky little monkey, Winston! Thalia has certainly changed, but Grant is still an asshole!
Dax and Red are really funny and compelling characters though Red can be a little annoying at times with her childish outbursts, but on the plus side she's not a giggler so YAY!
Sadly and heartbreakingly this book delved more deeply into human trafficking and child sex rings, which is not only tragic but disgusting as well, the lengths high profile people will go through to be a part of something so fucking evil.
We get to meet a bunch of new colorful and sexy characters, plus not only are Grant and Thalia here as well but so is their cheeky little monkey, Winston! Thalia has certainly changed, but Grant is still an asshole!
January 19, 2016
What an powerful read. This is the second book in this series, but can be read alone, l would suggest you read the first one as it explains who the characters are. I could hardly put this book down full of tension and supense..nail bitting at times.This is Dax's story and involves the very real issues of human trafficking. I dont want to put any spoilers in, but do read it, you wont be disappointed and it does have an ending. I hope there is another book in this series as l realy felt involved with the story and characters,l didn't want it to end.ln an ideal world human trafficking would be eraticated. Five stars from me.
February 15, 2016
Another heart thumping read
Another great book. Plenty of action and intrigue to get your heart racing. At times I chuckled, at others I was tearful. I ran through a gamut of emotions as I read this book. Great characters, exciting plot, and another hunky hero who falls for a strong sassy heroine. Excellent read!
Another great book. Plenty of action and intrigue to get your heart racing. At times I chuckled, at others I was tearful. I ran through a gamut of emotions as I read this book. Great characters, exciting plot, and another hunky hero who falls for a strong sassy heroine. Excellent read!
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November 7, 20153.0/5.0
It may be winter in Boston, but the heat is tropical between Dax and Rebecca!
Read full review in the 2015 November issue of InD'tale Magazine.
It may be winter in Boston, but the heat is tropical between Dax and Rebecca!
Read full review in the 2015 November issue of InD'tale Magazine.
June 2, 2016
I tried, I really tried to finish this book, since I enjoyed the first book of the series. But I just couldn't generate enough interest & didn't care enough about either character to continue.
June 19, 2016
I enjoyed this more than the first story. It's more fun than the first book.
July 16, 2016
Love It
Rebecca and Dax get their story on this book and what a story it is plus we get to catch up with Grant and Thalia - full of intrigue and suspense.
Rebecca and Dax get their story on this book and what a story it is plus we get to catch up with Grant and Thalia - full of intrigue and suspense.
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