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James Thomas #1
Escanta
James Thomas is a hunted man. He has a past full of secrets and a skill set that makes him very dangerous. He’s violent. He doesn’t hesitate to kill. And he never gives his enemies a quick death.
Mak Ashwood is a criminal prosecutor taking on the mob in a triple murder trial. She has enemies of her own, as well as a husband who disappeared thirteen years ago.
When Mak comes to James for protection, the physical attraction is mutual. He knows he should stay away from her, though, so that his checkered past won't put her life in danger. He shouldn't get into a relationship, especially with a woman who fights to uphold the law. What he should do is focus on his own security situation, which is much more perilous than hers.
However, James can’t seem to stay away, and Mak doesn’t want him to. But she doesn’t truly know him She doesn’t even know his real name...
ESCANTA is a captivating suspenseful romance that explores the power of coincidence—and how seemingly unconnected events can entwine two lives together.
Mak Ashwood is a criminal prosecutor taking on the mob in a triple murder trial. She has enemies of her own, as well as a husband who disappeared thirteen years ago.
When Mak comes to James for protection, the physical attraction is mutual. He knows he should stay away from her, though, so that his checkered past won't put her life in danger. He shouldn't get into a relationship, especially with a woman who fights to uphold the law. What he should do is focus on his own security situation, which is much more perilous than hers.
However, James can’t seem to stay away, and Mak doesn’t want him to. But she doesn’t truly know him She doesn’t even know his real name...
ESCANTA is a captivating suspenseful romance that explores the power of coincidence—and how seemingly unconnected events can entwine two lives together.
218 pages, ebook
Published March 15, 2016
606 people are currently reading
651 people want to read
About the author
Brooke Sivendra
28 books144 followersBrooke Sivendra is a best-selling author of more than eighteen romantic suspense novels. She wrote her debut novel in 2015, after walking away from a career in Nuclear Medicine.
Instead of spending her days working in hospitals, Brooke spends them creating heart-racing, thrilling stories of bad boys with good intentions. Readers say her books are like, 'Jason Bourne for women.'
Brooke Sivendra lives in Adelaide, Australia, with her husband and three dogs that are always up to no good.
If you're new to Brooke's books, she recommends starting with The Royals - a forbidden-love, royal romantic suspense series. There are four books and all have been published and are available in Kindle Unlimited.
Or, you can get the first book FREE by clicking this link: shorturl.at/mDFLV
Instead of spending her days working in hospitals, Brooke spends them creating heart-racing, thrilling stories of bad boys with good intentions. Readers say her books are like, 'Jason Bourne for women.'
Brooke Sivendra lives in Adelaide, Australia, with her husband and three dogs that are always up to no good.
If you're new to Brooke's books, she recommends starting with The Royals - a forbidden-love, royal romantic suspense series. There are four books and all have been published and are available in Kindle Unlimited.
Or, you can get the first book FREE by clicking this link: shorturl.at/mDFLV
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 94 reviews
February 18, 2018
3.5 Stars
There were things about this book that I really liked and things that I didn't like at all. I am going to start with the things I didn't like because I like to end on a positive note.
First, I didn't like that James keeps referring to things that happened in the past like I am supposed to have knowledge of these events. It becomes frustrating and I didn't like that. I do not mind reading books in order and gaining background information about the characters but I do not like it when a book is the first in a series and it is often alluding back to things I feel like I should know about from the past. If there are books that should be read before this one I want to know about it and then I can make an educated decision in which order to read them.
Second, I didn't always like the interaction between James and Mac. At times he almost treats her like she is a child needing protection from things. In reality she is a highly educated individual who would be perfectly capable of making the best decision for her is given the facts and information. I understand his need to protect her from his past but sometimes I feel it just goes too far.
Now on to the things I liked about this story. Fist, I liked that the heroine was a strong and independent individual. She is capable and willing to stand in the line of fire to do what is right (this leads to my disappointment a little in James for not believing she could make a decision that would be best for her). She displays an enormous amount of courage.
Second, I thought the pace of the plot was good. Sometimes when I read a suspense novel it has all of the suspense and angst right in the middle and leaves none for the rest of the story. This book isn't like that at all and I appreciate that.
Overall, I liked the story and feel that the positives outweighed the negatives. I will be giving book two a read.
There were things about this book that I really liked and things that I didn't like at all. I am going to start with the things I didn't like because I like to end on a positive note.
First, I didn't like that James keeps referring to things that happened in the past like I am supposed to have knowledge of these events. It becomes frustrating and I didn't like that. I do not mind reading books in order and gaining background information about the characters but I do not like it when a book is the first in a series and it is often alluding back to things I feel like I should know about from the past. If there are books that should be read before this one I want to know about it and then I can make an educated decision in which order to read them.
Second, I didn't always like the interaction between James and Mac. At times he almost treats her like she is a child needing protection from things. In reality she is a highly educated individual who would be perfectly capable of making the best decision for her is given the facts and information. I understand his need to protect her from his past but sometimes I feel it just goes too far.
Now on to the things I liked about this story. Fist, I liked that the heroine was a strong and independent individual. She is capable and willing to stand in the line of fire to do what is right (this leads to my disappointment a little in James for not believing she could make a decision that would be best for her). She displays an enormous amount of courage.
Second, I thought the pace of the plot was good. Sometimes when I read a suspense novel it has all of the suspense and angst right in the middle and leaves none for the rest of the story. This book isn't like that at all and I appreciate that.
Overall, I liked the story and feel that the positives outweighed the negatives. I will be giving book two a read.
March 14, 2017
Who is James Thomas?
Mak is a lawyer taking on the mob in a dangerous trial. She's young but tenacious. She has security but after she finds an odd and threatening note laying on her hotel bed, it all changes. Maybe a quick trip to London wasn't so smart.
Her life is in danger and she knows it the moment she notices the cold stare of the man on her plane sitting four rows behind her. She's safe on the plane right? When they land back in America, and she's safely in the hands of her security detail she feels safe. What happens when the man from the plane shows up again?
This story isn't any romance you've read before. This book isn't like any suspense novel you already own. Who wants James Thomas dead this time? More importantly, who is James Thomas and can he keep Mak safe from the Mob, her past, the world or himself?
Push your TBR list aside because you NEED to read this series. This is the first of four books already released with the next, book five, just around the corner.
Happy Reading,
Squally
Mak is a lawyer taking on the mob in a dangerous trial. She's young but tenacious. She has security but after she finds an odd and threatening note laying on her hotel bed, it all changes. Maybe a quick trip to London wasn't so smart.
Her life is in danger and she knows it the moment she notices the cold stare of the man on her plane sitting four rows behind her. She's safe on the plane right? When they land back in America, and she's safely in the hands of her security detail she feels safe. What happens when the man from the plane shows up again?
This story isn't any romance you've read before. This book isn't like any suspense novel you already own. Who wants James Thomas dead this time? More importantly, who is James Thomas and can he keep Mak safe from the Mob, her past, the world or himself?
Push your TBR list aside because you NEED to read this series. This is the first of four books already released with the next, book five, just around the corner.
Happy Reading,
Squally
Want to read
January 23, 2018💝 FREE on Amazon today (1/23/2018)! 💝
Blurb:
James Thomas is a hunted man. He has a past full of secrets and a skill set that makes him very dangerous. He's violent. He doesn't hesitate to kill. And he never gives his enemies a quick death. Mak Ashwood is a criminal prosecutor taking on the mob in a triple murder trial. She has enemies of her own, as well as a husband who disappeared thirteen years ago. When Mak comes to James for protection, the physical attraction is mutual. He knows he should stay away from her, though, so that his checkered past won't put her life in danger. He shouldn't get into a relationship, especially with a woman who fights to uphold the law. What he should do is focus on his own security situation, which is much more perilous than hers. However, James can't seem to stay away, and Mak doesn't want him to. But she doesn't truly know him. She doesn't even know his real name...
Blurb:
James Thomas is a hunted man. He has a past full of secrets and a skill set that makes him very dangerous. He's violent. He doesn't hesitate to kill. And he never gives his enemies a quick death. Mak Ashwood is a criminal prosecutor taking on the mob in a triple murder trial. She has enemies of her own, as well as a husband who disappeared thirteen years ago. When Mak comes to James for protection, the physical attraction is mutual. He knows he should stay away from her, though, so that his checkered past won't put her life in danger. He shouldn't get into a relationship, especially with a woman who fights to uphold the law. What he should do is focus on his own security situation, which is much more perilous than hers. However, James can't seem to stay away, and Mak doesn't want him to. But she doesn't truly know him. She doesn't even know his real name...
June 28, 2017
Wow!
I was gifted an ARC for my honest review. Pretty good for my first book from Brooke. It's definitely a cross between Jason Bourne and John Wick (the hotel). Plenty of suspense and intense eye staring.
The chemistry between Mak and James is fierce and instant. How could you not love James?!!! Ugh...sigh.
He really does have a heart, even though he has many secrets, aliases and killed a lot of people...he is selfless in fighting his feelings for Mak. He really wants her but knows the consequences of happily ever after. Mak is very strong and no damsel to be taking on the mob. Together they make the perfect superhero (minus super powers) couple.
I feel like the action will pick up in the next book as this was an introduction to everything. I did feel a little out of the loop with the characters in the beginning because, you guess it, James was apart of another series. But I got over it and you will too.
Excellent read and bring me more!
I was gifted an ARC for my honest review. Pretty good for my first book from Brooke. It's definitely a cross between Jason Bourne and John Wick (the hotel). Plenty of suspense and intense eye staring.
The chemistry between Mak and James is fierce and instant. How could you not love James?!!! Ugh...sigh.
He really does have a heart, even though he has many secrets, aliases and killed a lot of people...he is selfless in fighting his feelings for Mak. He really wants her but knows the consequences of happily ever after. Mak is very strong and no damsel to be taking on the mob. Together they make the perfect superhero (minus super powers) couple.
I feel like the action will pick up in the next book as this was an introduction to everything. I did feel a little out of the loop with the characters in the beginning because, you guess it, James was apart of another series. But I got over it and you will too.
Excellent read and bring me more!
April 2, 2017
Captivated. I was captivated from the very beginning. This is the first book in the series, and it raised so many questions and answered almost none, but the plot is so thick and the story line so intriguing you are left with no choice but to immediately buy the rest of them! The author does an amazing job of giving you just enough information to try and grasp onto, desperate to know what? who? why? when? where?..........it dips just enough into several situations that you will try your best to figure it out....but I don't think any of us will! The main characters, Mak and James (is it really James though?) are well developed in this book, and I think this just sets us all up to be slammed into crazy-plot-twisting-never-saw-that-coming situations in the following books. Since it is a series, the book does leave you with a cliff hanger....and what a cliff hanger it was! I was literally breathless and then...BAM!...end of book one! I am purchasing the rest of the series ASAP!! I cannot wait to find out what the author has in store for me for the rest of the series! Will Mak and James make it? Will either of them survive to even find out??? All I know is...I can't wait to find out!!!
"Her heart lurched and stumbled over itself-there was something different about him: a sense of danger that even his handsome face couldn't disguise." Mak knew this from the moment she laid eyes on James....but how deep does that danger go, and is she up for the challenge?
"Her heart lurched and stumbled over itself-there was something different about him: a sense of danger that even his handsome face couldn't disguise." Mak knew this from the moment she laid eyes on James....but how deep does that danger go, and is she up for the challenge?
April 25, 2020
From the initial encounter and later introduction between prosecuting attorney Mak and James, the security expert, the sparks fly. The author's ability to build up suspense and keep the reader in expectation of the other shoe dropping is also well done. However, having said that, the plot in this novel is pretty thin, and due to the fact that this is Book 1 in a 6-part serial, I was left with more questions than answers. Parts of the plot are pretty brutal and I found myself reading with one eye shut. I am sure that as the story evolves in the ensuing books, aspects of the story will become clearer. Nevertheless, I was disappointed in this novel, a copy of which I purchased some 5 years ago. I also received this book for free from eBook Discovery. I voluntarily post this review. This is my honest review.
September 6, 2020
Just finished this bad boy - what a ride! This is my first book from Brooke Sivendra and it won't be the last. Escanta strikes the perfect balance between suspense, mystery, and romance. Sivendra throws you into a twisty turny adventure through the dark underworld of organized crime, deadly secrets, and a faceless threat. I was hooked from the first few pages (seriously, just read the first few paragraphs). I loved the courtroom drama, the espionage, the mystery, and last but certainly not least, the sizzling chemistry between the mysterious James Thomas and tough-as-nails Makaela Ashwood. And THAT ENDING. This book really does have it all and I highly recommend it for anyone looking for a page-turning escape. Bravo.👏 Five Stars.
April 18, 2017
I originally purchased this book in 2016, but just recently received an arc copy. Since I couldn't remember much about it, I chose to read it again. This is my first book by this author and she did not disappoint. I admit I was a little surprised by some of the negative reviews. I found the book to be well written with lots of suspense, crime, the mob and drama. The chemistry was off the charts between James and Mak. It's not necessary to read the prior books, but I recommend that you do so you will have a better knowledge of the characters. An easy read, but be forewarned, there is a cliffhanger
April 25, 2017
I have read the entire series and this is so deserving of the highest ratings. I haven't been able to do reviews but when I have time, I'd like to express more!
December 24, 2019
Love this book. It was so good I've re-read it. Brooke has a way of writing that puts me right into the story. I get so consumed by the content and then want to cry when it's finished, not because of a sad ending, but because it ended.
August 15, 2019
5 Stars
You know when you read a book that is sooo good it completely captures you- sweeping you off your feet, consuming you in a way where reality is suspended and all you can think about is the story? A story that is so great you can’t stop at just one book- you need to hunt down the entire series to devour, because you’ve developed a serious addiction and need your next fix, STAT? Where you become so consumed by the addiction, you then proceed to stalk the author, and chasing down every book she’s ever written, caught in a one-clicking frenzy- only to end up on a book-binge of epic proportions, hoping like hell she’s got more books in the works because you’ll never tire of her stories- ever? Well Ms. Sivendra is one of those authors- her books are completely and irreversibly addictive. I should have a massive book-binging hangover, but I don’t! Because I loved every second of every mind-blowing minute I spent between her pages 😉. I really couldn’t get enough, and let’s face it at this stage I’d read her shopping list, just to get a ‘fix’ 😊
Escanta is the first book in the James Thomas Series by Brooke Sivendra. This was a surprising find that showed up on my recommended book feed, and I was intrigued enough by the blurb to take a chance. I AM SOOOO HAPPY THAT I DID!!! What a GEM!!! This romantic suspense was everything I thought it could be, and so much more! There was action, adventure, mystery, mob connections, courtroom drama, danger, threats, chemistry, passion, intrigue, suspense, secrets, obstacles, compromises, car chases, shoot outs, tension, and much more.
Makaela Ashwood (Mak) is a criminal prosecutor working on a high profile triple murder case involving the Mafia. Things take a dangerous turn and her life is threatened. She’s going to need professional help if she’s going to get out of this alive. Thomas Security is recommended to her when her security team drop the ball. Mak is quite intimidated by James Thomas, but at the same time he’s a puzzle she can’t help but want to solve. An insatiable curiosity was always going to be her downfall.
James Thomas is the enigmatic head of Thomas security. He’s got a complicated, painful past that has left him with quite a lot of baggage, as well as some specialized and very dangerous skills. He’s haunted by his past, left with demons that weigh heavily ion his soul. But he’s also got a price on his head, being hunted by powerful and savage enemies. But he’s got a few secrets up his sleeve, and they would be wise to never underestimate him. When lines blur, and his past begins to tangle in the life of his beautiful and distracting new client, Thomas is going to have to pull out all the stops if he’s going to keep her/them safe.
This is such a fantastic story. I am really having trouble finding the words to do this book/series the justice it deserves. The characters are beyond perfect. They are complex, fully realised individuals with their own unique personalities, quirks and flaws. They had me completely invested in them and the outcome of their story from word go. I was eagerly and quite anxiously following along as the story unfolded. I spent a lot of the time on the edge of my seat, my heart pounding through all the adrenaline inducing action and jaw dropping revelations. Completely riveted by the story, I wouldn’t put it down and read it all in one sitting.
This is so well woven, with a massive amount of clever plotting and intricate layering. I am so impressed with Ms. Sivendra’s masterful storytelling talents. She may not realise it, yet 😉 but she’s just gained an avid stalker, um I mean fan, yes, an avid fan!
The story continues in the next book, which I have already devoured, because cliffhanger much! But don’t worry, because all the books in the series are available right now…. YAY!!!!! So there is no waiting between books! #WINNING #DIVEIN #BACKTOBACKEXCITEMENT #YOUWONTREGRETIT
Highly recommended reading. Really, it’s a MUST READ, and should be on everybody’s TBR!!!
Kudos! And thank you, Ms. Sivendra!
You know when you read a book that is sooo good it completely captures you- sweeping you off your feet, consuming you in a way where reality is suspended and all you can think about is the story? A story that is so great you can’t stop at just one book- you need to hunt down the entire series to devour, because you’ve developed a serious addiction and need your next fix, STAT? Where you become so consumed by the addiction, you then proceed to stalk the author, and chasing down every book she’s ever written, caught in a one-clicking frenzy- only to end up on a book-binge of epic proportions, hoping like hell she’s got more books in the works because you’ll never tire of her stories- ever? Well Ms. Sivendra is one of those authors- her books are completely and irreversibly addictive. I should have a massive book-binging hangover, but I don’t! Because I loved every second of every mind-blowing minute I spent between her pages 😉. I really couldn’t get enough, and let’s face it at this stage I’d read her shopping list, just to get a ‘fix’ 😊
Escanta is the first book in the James Thomas Series by Brooke Sivendra. This was a surprising find that showed up on my recommended book feed, and I was intrigued enough by the blurb to take a chance. I AM SOOOO HAPPY THAT I DID!!! What a GEM!!! This romantic suspense was everything I thought it could be, and so much more! There was action, adventure, mystery, mob connections, courtroom drama, danger, threats, chemistry, passion, intrigue, suspense, secrets, obstacles, compromises, car chases, shoot outs, tension, and much more.
Makaela Ashwood (Mak) is a criminal prosecutor working on a high profile triple murder case involving the Mafia. Things take a dangerous turn and her life is threatened. She’s going to need professional help if she’s going to get out of this alive. Thomas Security is recommended to her when her security team drop the ball. Mak is quite intimidated by James Thomas, but at the same time he’s a puzzle she can’t help but want to solve. An insatiable curiosity was always going to be her downfall.
James Thomas is the enigmatic head of Thomas security. He’s got a complicated, painful past that has left him with quite a lot of baggage, as well as some specialized and very dangerous skills. He’s haunted by his past, left with demons that weigh heavily ion his soul. But he’s also got a price on his head, being hunted by powerful and savage enemies. But he’s got a few secrets up his sleeve, and they would be wise to never underestimate him. When lines blur, and his past begins to tangle in the life of his beautiful and distracting new client, Thomas is going to have to pull out all the stops if he’s going to keep her/them safe.
This is such a fantastic story. I am really having trouble finding the words to do this book/series the justice it deserves. The characters are beyond perfect. They are complex, fully realised individuals with their own unique personalities, quirks and flaws. They had me completely invested in them and the outcome of their story from word go. I was eagerly and quite anxiously following along as the story unfolded. I spent a lot of the time on the edge of my seat, my heart pounding through all the adrenaline inducing action and jaw dropping revelations. Completely riveted by the story, I wouldn’t put it down and read it all in one sitting.
This is so well woven, with a massive amount of clever plotting and intricate layering. I am so impressed with Ms. Sivendra’s masterful storytelling talents. She may not realise it, yet 😉 but she’s just gained an avid stalker, um I mean fan, yes, an avid fan!
The story continues in the next book, which I have already devoured, because cliffhanger much! But don’t worry, because all the books in the series are available right now…. YAY!!!!! So there is no waiting between books! #WINNING #DIVEIN #BACKTOBACKEXCITEMENT #YOUWONTREGRETIT
Highly recommended reading. Really, it’s a MUST READ, and should be on everybody’s TBR!!!
Kudos! And thank you, Ms. Sivendra!
March 17, 2017
Mak is fighting her way to the top as a young but tenacious lawyer. Her current trial is taking on the mob and along with that is enemies.
James Thomas is a man with many facets and a dangerous past that is also his future. When Mak's life is being threatened James' Security team finally steps in but as they learn Mak has more than one enemy but an enemy they do not know.
Trust me this is a book you want to read. Brooke has done a fantastic job weaving the suspense and keeps you wondering just what is around the corner. This would have to be the best book I have read this year.
James Thomas is a man with many facets and a dangerous past that is also his future. When Mak's life is being threatened James' Security team finally steps in but as they learn Mak has more than one enemy but an enemy they do not know.
Trust me this is a book you want to read. Brooke has done a fantastic job weaving the suspense and keeps you wondering just what is around the corner. This would have to be the best book I have read this year.
March 22, 2016
Escanta by Brooke Sivendra will keep you spellbound and you won’t want to put it down. The story revolves around Mak (Makaela) Ashwood an Assistant District Attorney who is prosecuting the trial of her career, the murder trial of three young women. As the case progresses she has hired a bodyguard to accompany to and from the office, courtroom and her apartment. She receives an anonymous sinister note that was found in her hotel room when she was in England for a close friend from high school. Since this was a quick unplanned trip she didn’t bring her bodyguard. Needless to say she is on edge and as she travels back to New York, she makes eye contact with a man on the plane. She immediately fears that he has something to do with her case and the mysterious note.
Later at an engagement party for friends, the mystery man is also at the party. He is James Thomas the co-founder of Thomas Security. James Thomas and his “brother“Deacon Thomas, backgrounds have been hone first by the military and then by the CIA. Since their lives are constantly in danger they do not have relationships. However there is an immediate attraction for James. When Thomas Security is recommended to take on her protection case, they decline but refer her to another firm. When they test the security levels and find it lacking they are forced to take her on as a client. As James and Mak spend more time together, the attraction grows. But how will they handle it?
Escanta covers really two storylines. One is Mak’s security and the other is someone from James’s past is looking for him and bodies are piling. The first book is a cliffhanger and I can wait to read the next book in the series.
If you want mystery, intrigue and characters that have depth this series is for you!
I received this book in exchange for an honest review. Trust me the above is my honest opinion.
Later at an engagement party for friends, the mystery man is also at the party. He is James Thomas the co-founder of Thomas Security. James Thomas and his “brother“Deacon Thomas, backgrounds have been hone first by the military and then by the CIA. Since their lives are constantly in danger they do not have relationships. However there is an immediate attraction for James. When Thomas Security is recommended to take on her protection case, they decline but refer her to another firm. When they test the security levels and find it lacking they are forced to take her on as a client. As James and Mak spend more time together, the attraction grows. But how will they handle it?
Escanta covers really two storylines. One is Mak’s security and the other is someone from James’s past is looking for him and bodies are piling. The first book is a cliffhanger and I can wait to read the next book in the series.
If you want mystery, intrigue and characters that have depth this series is for you!
I received this book in exchange for an honest review. Trust me the above is my honest opinion.
July 2, 2018
This would have been a 3 if not for the egregious error of the author assuming that a prosecutor can appeal an not guilty verdict! Not merely once but in 3 separate scenes this issue came up. Surely anyone writing about criminal prosecution in the US should know about double jeopardy. Also of the major questions in this book, none were answered. The person(s) sending the female protagonist threatening messages was never identified, nor was the group responsible for threatening the male protagonist.
May 19, 2017
Escanta has it all, mystery, dangerous passion, and an explosive ending.
James Thomas is not what he seems, he's not even who he says he is, he's a very dangerous man whose past must remain secret.
Mak a criminal prosecutor never backs down from the toughest cases, even if it means her life is in danger.
She needs protection from her high powered case, she needs the scroll notes to stop appearing, and she needs to not fall in love with her bodyguard.
Who is trying to quiet Mak? The mob, special forces, or does this have to do with her missing husband of 13 years?
Mak needs James's protection, but will his past put her in even more danger?
"A relationship with me would be very different. I couldn't take the risk of even getting to know you, of even going out on a few casual dates without putting into place stringent security measures. And you would HATE the security measures I would want to employ."
"I was given orders for them. But then I saw too much, I decide to punish those men that used me.. your life would be at risk by being my girlfriend."
I was absolutely lost in this fast paced book.
Brooke Sivendra had me from the 1st page to the last. I'm falling in love with James and Mak... just the book I needed to read. Totally engrossed. And what a cliffhanger ending.
James Thomas is not what he seems, he's not even who he says he is, he's a very dangerous man whose past must remain secret.
Mak a criminal prosecutor never backs down from the toughest cases, even if it means her life is in danger.
She needs protection from her high powered case, she needs the scroll notes to stop appearing, and she needs to not fall in love with her bodyguard.
Who is trying to quiet Mak? The mob, special forces, or does this have to do with her missing husband of 13 years?
Mak needs James's protection, but will his past put her in even more danger?
"A relationship with me would be very different. I couldn't take the risk of even getting to know you, of even going out on a few casual dates without putting into place stringent security measures. And you would HATE the security measures I would want to employ."
"I was given orders for them. But then I saw too much, I decide to punish those men that used me.. your life would be at risk by being my girlfriend."
I was absolutely lost in this fast paced book.
Brooke Sivendra had me from the 1st page to the last. I'm falling in love with James and Mak... just the book I needed to read. Totally engrossed. And what a cliffhanger ending.
February 19, 2018
There was so much hype and 5 stars for this book, and it kept coming up on my FB feed as a great story, so I downloaded the free copy. All the time I was reading it, I kept thinking, "so when is something going to happen?" I found the "I love her but I can't have her", and the "it's too dangerous for me to have a girlfriend." tiresome and repetitive. I really hate giving books a bad review, but this one really does stink. Nothing happens, but there is a little intrigue in it that definitely points towards a second book. I definitely will not be reading the rest of the series. I suppose if you are into romance novels, you might like it. I skimmed over those parts as I don't think they are necessary in a thriller or mystery novel. All it did was add extra pages to a story that I already was not enjoying. Cliffhanger ending ensures if you did like the book, you will want to read the next one. Sorry that I couldn't enjoy what so many readers seem to have loved.
July 21, 2016
E-Reader Mystery
James Thomas part owner of Thomas Securities. He is a hunted & dangerous man., because of his past. Deacon, his brother, also owns the company. But they aren't really brothers. The only two people trust are part of the company are Cami who protects clients & Samuel who is a compurter genius.
Enter D.A. Mak Ashwood who is prosecuting a mob boss for three murders. James has met & has feelings for her, which is very unusual for him. He feels protective of her, Thomas Security is hired as she's receiving threats.
What will the verdict be with her court case. Plus what happens when she's having feelings for James. Action filled you never know what's next.
Can't wait for book 2 to be released
James Thomas part owner of Thomas Securities. He is a hunted & dangerous man., because of his past. Deacon, his brother, also owns the company. But they aren't really brothers. The only two people trust are part of the company are Cami who protects clients & Samuel who is a compurter genius.
Enter D.A. Mak Ashwood who is prosecuting a mob boss for three murders. James has met & has feelings for her, which is very unusual for him. He feels protective of her, Thomas Security is hired as she's receiving threats.
What will the verdict be with her court case. Plus what happens when she's having feelings for James. Action filled you never know what's next.
Can't wait for book 2 to be released
February 24, 2017
This is a fast paced, riveting read. The characters are well thought out and there is so much about them that I want to know and see unfold. Mak is a driven lawyer handling her first huge Case against a mob boss. James is in Security and there is no way he is going to let her go once he has her, even though his mind is telling him she is in more danger being with him. His life is a life of secrets, so many of which he can't tell Mak, and so many he doesn't even know himself. Trying to keep not only his clients but himself and his team alive weighs heavily on James, but it is all part and parcel of his very confusing life. Very exciting read, thanks Brooke Sivendra for the copy of this book. I am now going to delve into Sarantini, cannot wait to get more of Mak and James.
August 21, 2017
I received this free e-book from Amazon and I am voluntarily writing a review. First off I HATE cliffhangers and this ids one but no mention of it in the description of the book. There was characters and plots referred to that made me think there was another book I should have read first but this was book #1 of a series. There were many different threads of plots running through this that were never fleshed out, missed opportunities. This book drug on and on and went nowhere ending in a cliffhanger but not making me want to pursue the series. This was a total waste of my weekend time.
March 20, 2016
I was blown away by this book. For some time now I have been suffering readers block lol. From the first sentence Escanta pulled me in and before you know it I'd finished the book.
I could totally identify with Maks character and that combined with the level of descriptiveness that Brooke uses, the whole scene comes to life before your very eyes. I can't wait to sink my teeth into her next book. I was provided with an ARC in return for an honest review.
I could totally identify with Maks character and that combined with the level of descriptiveness that Brooke uses, the whole scene comes to life before your very eyes. I can't wait to sink my teeth into her next book. I was provided with an ARC in return for an honest review.
June 14, 2019
This is not one of those series that has the same characters but each story has some kind of an ending. It is a cliffhanger which to me means the author wrote a story and then divided into sections so it can be packaged as multiple selling units. Don’t like these and if I had known that from the beginning I would not have started it
January 3, 2017
First time reading this author. Very good book. Will be reading more!
Loved this book!
Can't wait to start the next one in the series! Love getting new books and reading new authors!
Loved this book!
Can't wait to start the next one in the series! Love getting new books and reading new authors!
August 5, 2019
To much drama:
First time readers the author and the story has been repeated in some chapters about characters life. To much drama and suspense. Something was wrong about it but if you want to read: Recommended
First time readers the author and the story has been repeated in some chapters about characters life. To much drama and suspense. Something was wrong about it but if you want to read: Recommended
March 24, 2016
Hooked on the first few pages,great read !!
July 13, 2016
I loved this book and totally fell in love with James Thomas.
February 1, 2017
Wow what a book and what a writer
Loved the way the author smoothly kept the story going
Can't wait to read the rest in this series
This author is another added to my favourite list
Loved the way the author smoothly kept the story going
Can't wait to read the rest in this series
This author is another added to my favourite list
February 10, 2017
This is my first Brooke Sivendra book and it won't be the last. Action, intrigue, murder, and romance. Something for everyone.
September 21, 2017
Absolutely fantastic
Brooke is such an amazing author . This series has started with a bang. Can't wait to keep reading
Awesome!!!
Brooke is such an amazing author . This series has started with a bang. Can't wait to keep reading
Awesome!!!
May 4, 2017
James Thomas (co-owner Thomas Security) ask the assailant he had pinned down several times why he was sent
Escanta had sent him.
BANG!
NYC. Makaela “Mak” Ashwood (f, criminal prosecutor) was not scared to take on the mob gangs & put them behind bars for a long time.
She was flying out to London.
Her husband had disappeared yrs. ago.
James needed Samuel (BMF, TS, computer hacker) to find out who/what Escanta is.
Zahra Foster (f, TS client), & Jayce Tohmatsu (m, TS client, Kyoji’s brother), were throwing an engagement party.
Mak greeted James upon arrival. Maya Ashwood (sister, bridesmaid) was standing close by & greeted him also.
Jemma Foster (Ashwood’s sister, bridesmaid) & Deacon Thomas (brother, TS co-owner) were also in attendance.
Mak later called & spoke with Deacon Thomas (retired US Army Ranger). They set up a meeting in the boardroom.
James was present also.
She had received death threats.
James did not like Deacon’s idea of them getting involved.
The 2 had a very heated argument.
Cami (TS bodyguard) was assigned to watch over Mak.
What did James ask Dasha (Russian, James’ ex-lover, aka Liam Smith).
Mak & Kayla (BFF, medical litigation lawyer) were going out to eat. Cami was close by.
James & Cami arrived in Hungary.
How did Kate Loren’s charge of 1st. degree murder case come out?
I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review. Only an honest one.
A very awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very well written crime thriller book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a great set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great crime thriller movie, or better yet a mini TV series. To be continued. A very easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free Author; Amazon Digital Services LLC; book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
Escanta had sent him.
BANG!
NYC. Makaela “Mak” Ashwood (f, criminal prosecutor) was not scared to take on the mob gangs & put them behind bars for a long time.
She was flying out to London.
Her husband had disappeared yrs. ago.
James needed Samuel (BMF, TS, computer hacker) to find out who/what Escanta is.
Zahra Foster (f, TS client), & Jayce Tohmatsu (m, TS client, Kyoji’s brother), were throwing an engagement party.
Mak greeted James upon arrival. Maya Ashwood (sister, bridesmaid) was standing close by & greeted him also.
Jemma Foster (Ashwood’s sister, bridesmaid) & Deacon Thomas (brother, TS co-owner) were also in attendance.
Mak later called & spoke with Deacon Thomas (retired US Army Ranger). They set up a meeting in the boardroom.
James was present also.
She had received death threats.
James did not like Deacon’s idea of them getting involved.
The 2 had a very heated argument.
Cami (TS bodyguard) was assigned to watch over Mak.
What did James ask Dasha (Russian, James’ ex-lover, aka Liam Smith).
Mak & Kayla (BFF, medical litigation lawyer) were going out to eat. Cami was close by.
James & Cami arrived in Hungary.
How did Kate Loren’s charge of 1st. degree murder case come out?
I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review. Only an honest one.
A very awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very well written crime thriller book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a great set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great crime thriller movie, or better yet a mini TV series. To be continued. A very easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free Author; Amazon Digital Services LLC; book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
July 5, 2017
Mak, short for Makaela, Ashwood, is a young highly ambitious and courageous Prosecutor, who has decided to take on a case involving the Mob. While presenting her case, she has hired a security team to keep her safe. However, even with this team guarding her, someone keeps leaving her scrolled notes with threatening messages in them. Such was the case, as she was leaving her hotel room in London. She becomes very nervous and cautious as she makes her flight back to the USA. On the flight she can't shake the feeling that someone is watching her. She looks at the other passengers and finds a man staring at her. He continues to stare, which make her even more nervous. She hurries to get off the plane and get into her car with security. Little did she know but the man, James Thomas, is already requesting his IT hacker to pull up any and all information on her. Eventually, both Mak and James end up at the same engagement party of friends of theirs. They are both shocked to see the other at the party. Introductions are made, and Mak finds out that this mysterious man, James Thomas, owns the Thomas Security Company. James also finds out that her security is falling down on their job. James is attracted to Mak, so he will not take her on as a client. He feels it in the best interest of all parties. Will Mak's safety be in danger? Will she win the trial with the mob involved? Why won't James take on her security? What kind of dangers are he and his partner, Deacon evading for themselves? What kind of pasts do they have that they are both ashamed of? What will the future hold for Mak and James. I loved the way this book was written. It was so smoothly written that I was having a hard time putting it down. The intrigue and the plot will keep the Reader guessing. The character development was superb. The reader can definitely relate to all of their emotions. The only downside is that this book ended with a cliffhanger, which I really do not care for. I understand that the authors want the reader to keep coming back for more, but it takes away from the book. There should be a way to write a stand alone book, which can still relate to future books in the series.
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