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Search and Rescue #4
In Safe Hands
He was her hero,
But one wrong move ended their future before it could begin.
Now he'll do whatever it takes to keep her safe,
Even if that means turning against one of his own.
As a member of the Field County Sheriff's Department, Chris Jennings is used to having it rough. The Colorado Rockies aren't for the weak-of-spirit, but he's devoted his life to upholding the law-and to protecting the one woman he knows he can never have. He'll do whatever it takes to keep her safe.
Daisy Little has lived in agoraphobic terror for over eight years. Trapped within a prison of her own making, she watches time pass through her bedroom window. Daisy knows she'll never be a part of the world...until the day she becomes the sole witness of a terrible crime that may finally tear the Search & Rescue brotherhood apart for good.
In the remote Rocky Mountains, lives depend on the Search & Rescue brotherhood. But in a place this far off the map, trust is hard to come by and secrets can be murder...
But one wrong move ended their future before it could begin.
Now he'll do whatever it takes to keep her safe,
Even if that means turning against one of his own.
As a member of the Field County Sheriff's Department, Chris Jennings is used to having it rough. The Colorado Rockies aren't for the weak-of-spirit, but he's devoted his life to upholding the law-and to protecting the one woman he knows he can never have. He'll do whatever it takes to keep her safe.
Daisy Little has lived in agoraphobic terror for over eight years. Trapped within a prison of her own making, she watches time pass through her bedroom window. Daisy knows she'll never be a part of the world...until the day she becomes the sole witness of a terrible crime that may finally tear the Search & Rescue brotherhood apart for good.
In the remote Rocky Mountains, lives depend on the Search & Rescue brotherhood. But in a place this far off the map, trust is hard to come by and secrets can be murder...
418 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 4, 2016
478 people are currently reading
1156 people want to read
About the author
Katie Ruggle
20 books1,211 followersA fan of the old adage “write what you know”, Katie Ruggle lived in an off-grid, solar- and wind-powered house in the Rocky Mountains until her family lured her back to Minnesota. When she’s not writing, Katie rides horses, trains her three dogs, cross-country skis (badly) and travels to warm places where she can scuba dive. A graduate of the Police Academy, Katie received her ice-rescue certification and can attest that the reservoirs in the Colorado mountains really are that cold. A fan of anything that makes her feel like a bad-ass, she has trained in Krav Maga, boxing and gymnastics. You can connect with Katie at http://katieruggle.com/, https://www.facebook.com/katieruggleb..., or on Twitter @KatieRuggle
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 374 reviews
May 25, 2017
4 Leaving Home Stars
Some Spoilers
Wow...... In Safe Hands started out right were Gone Too Deep left off. I wasn't 22 pages in when Ms Ruggle started dropping bombs left and right. I was straight trippin'! As the plot for the series flows from book to book I would read this series in order, although I think if you tried to read them as standalones you would still be ok. The action in this book was great. Some of the revelations were crazy. I so never saw them coming.
I liked both Chris and Daisy. One thing I really like about all of Katie Ruggle books is all of her heroines are funny, and very unique. Daisy was no exception. She was a total shut in having not left her house in 8 years since she watched her mom get murder. She had issues and they were understandable but I felt myself get angry at her father who let her live that way for 8 years. Daisy was sweet, shy and playful. She knew she had problems and I loved that she braved her fear and started working on getting better. I did have a little bit of trouble relating to her because I felt 8 years was too long to not deal but I still really liked her. Chris was great. He was sexy and sweet. Loyal and trusting he was everything a good cop and hero should be. I loved that he didn't push Daisy about not leaving the house. He was loving, comforting, and accepting of all of her even her faults and over the top fears.
Chris and Daisy had a super slow build up in their relationship. They both had guilt over her mom's death and it held them back. But they had such a close friendship and chemistry that their love felt real. I don't want to give away too much of the plot because it's a shocker but the two bad guys were super creepy. I don't know which one was worst but I do know that the fire starter was giving me creepy chills every time there was a scene with him.
What a great read. Action everywhere, the romance sweet, the girl bonding was awesome, and I enjoyed every minute of it. I will say that I wished for more when it came to the ending. I think it could have wrapped up better. Other than that I loved this book and the whole series. I am so glad I got Gone Too Deep from Netgalley, fell in love with George, and got turned onto this series and author. I can't wait to get my hands on more books of her!
******************************************************************************
8/3/2016
OMG ARC!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I was so hoping I would get it. When I seen I got it I did a happy dance! I normally don't read ARC until closer to the release date but I just can't wait. SOooooo I will read it now and post the review closer to Release Date!
I got it.... I got it..... excuse me while I bust a move lol
Review to come closer to the release date!!!!
http://jessicasoverthetopbookobsessio...
Some Spoilers
Wow...... In Safe Hands started out right were Gone Too Deep left off. I wasn't 22 pages in when Ms Ruggle started dropping bombs left and right. I was straight trippin'! As the plot for the series flows from book to book I would read this series in order, although I think if you tried to read them as standalones you would still be ok. The action in this book was great. Some of the revelations were crazy. I so never saw them coming.
I liked both Chris and Daisy. One thing I really like about all of Katie Ruggle books is all of her heroines are funny, and very unique. Daisy was no exception. She was a total shut in having not left her house in 8 years since she watched her mom get murder. She had issues and they were understandable but I felt myself get angry at her father who let her live that way for 8 years. Daisy was sweet, shy and playful. She knew she had problems and I loved that she braved her fear and started working on getting better. I did have a little bit of trouble relating to her because I felt 8 years was too long to not deal but I still really liked her. Chris was great. He was sexy and sweet. Loyal and trusting he was everything a good cop and hero should be. I loved that he didn't push Daisy about not leaving the house. He was loving, comforting, and accepting of all of her even her faults and over the top fears.
Chris and Daisy had a super slow build up in their relationship. They both had guilt over her mom's death and it held them back. But they had such a close friendship and chemistry that their love felt real. I don't want to give away too much of the plot because it's a shocker but the two bad guys were super creepy. I don't know which one was worst but I do know that the fire starter was giving me creepy chills every time there was a scene with him.
What a great read. Action everywhere, the romance sweet, the girl bonding was awesome, and I enjoyed every minute of it. I will say that I wished for more when it came to the ending. I think it could have wrapped up better. Other than that I loved this book and the whole series. I am so glad I got Gone Too Deep from Netgalley, fell in love with George, and got turned onto this series and author. I can't wait to get my hands on more books of her!
******************************************************************************
8/3/2016
OMG ARC!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I was so hoping I would get it. When I seen I got it I did a happy dance! I normally don't read ARC until closer to the release date but I just can't wait. SOooooo I will read it now and post the review closer to Release Date!
I got it.... I got it..... excuse me while I bust a move lol
Review to come closer to the release date!!!!
http://jessicasoverthetopbookobsessio...
September 21, 2016
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Copy received from netgalley in exchange for an honest review
★Book Basics★
Genre : - Cont Romance
Series : - 4th in the series
Love triangle? -
Cheating? -
HEA? -
Would I read more by this author/or in this series? - Yes
Rating - 5 stars
★Review★
Be warned this review may contain spoilers, as unless you have read book 3, which reveals the bad guy, then it is quite hard to review this book, without possibly giving away major spoilers, although I shall try my best. Although I am hoping if you are reading this review for book 4, then you have probably read book 3.
Anyway, once again, this author proves she can write a great romantic suspense book. I really like both main characters, and again, there is something a little different about the characters she writes.
The heroine here, is severely agoraphobic, and has not left her house in 8 years, since her mom was murdered in front of her when she was 16.
The hero, is her best friend (and oh how I love a friends to lovers story) and deputy sheriff Chris.
And I loved watching them together, how obvious it was that Chris felt more for Daisy. And how proud he was of her, when she makes even the tiniest step forward.
And Daisy was such a great heroine. She is surprisingly tough, and battled so hard in this book to overcome her demons and issues. They were a great couple.
With a supporting cast made up of previous couples (and once again, I adore Lou as a secondary character) it is great to revisit this little town.
Romance wise, it was a slow burn, but I really enjoyed savouring it. I was wishing for the book to not end in all honesty, as I have really enjoyed the series. Although in saying that the romance was a slow burn, it is more that it took them awhile to move from friends to lovers, but once they got to that point, the relationship felt a bit rushed. Chris has been around in previous books, but not as a huge supporting role character in all honesty, and Daisy was a completely new character, never even before mentioned. Given Daisy was 16 when her Mom was murdered, and Chris was the sheriffs deputy first on scene, there has to be an age gap of several years, and I would have maybe liked a bit more of their history. How they became friends, how Chris started visiting her etc.
And, if you have read book 3, you know who the bad guy is, and if like me, you were a little upset….it is not better here. We know, while the book characters do not, just who the bad guy is, which makes every appearance and interaction he has with the characters, tense and rather creepy. And, while I was shocked, in a way it makes sense, in one of those “oh but he was such a nice guy” kind of ways. There were times I was really conflicted and almost wanted him to escape and get away with it somehow, in a “oh yes he is a murderer but he had reasons” sort of morally ambiguous way.
But this is just why it was such a good series overall. We are feeling what the characters were feeling, a sense of disbelief, betrayal, shock, and overall a sense of sadness and grief for the person we thought they were. The overall suspense arc throughout the series has been wonderfully crafted, managing to avoid the pitfall of making the villain cartoonish and ott or make zero sense whatsoever, but to make us as the reader conflicted, shocked, and just damn sad at the tragedy of it all.
I was half hoping/expecting the dude would get a book before the reveal in book 3. Any other series he bloody well would have done. Unlike a lot of book villains, especially in the romance genre, he was not OTT Evil. He had seemed like a pretty stand up guy, and probably was in most of his life, there was just this one area of his life that he was blind to, and would do anything for.
I have thoroughly enjoyed the series, and if this is indeed the end, I am gutted to be leaving this group pf people. I really hope the author somehow plans on revisiting them all.
Copy received from netgalley in exchange for an honest review
★Book Basics★
Genre : - Cont Romance
Series : - 4th in the series
Love triangle? -
Cheating? -
HEA? -
Would I read more by this author/or in this series? - Yes
Rating - 5 stars
★Review★
Be warned this review may contain spoilers, as unless you have read book 3, which reveals the bad guy, then it is quite hard to review this book, without possibly giving away major spoilers, although I shall try my best. Although I am hoping if you are reading this review for book 4, then you have probably read book 3.
Anyway, once again, this author proves she can write a great romantic suspense book. I really like both main characters, and again, there is something a little different about the characters she writes.
The heroine here, is severely agoraphobic, and has not left her house in 8 years, since her mom was murdered in front of her when she was 16.
The hero, is her best friend (and oh how I love a friends to lovers story) and deputy sheriff Chris.
And I loved watching them together, how obvious it was that Chris felt more for Daisy. And how proud he was of her, when she makes even the tiniest step forward.
And Daisy was such a great heroine. She is surprisingly tough, and battled so hard in this book to overcome her demons and issues. They were a great couple.
With a supporting cast made up of previous couples (and once again, I adore Lou as a secondary character) it is great to revisit this little town.
Romance wise, it was a slow burn, but I really enjoyed savouring it. I was wishing for the book to not end in all honesty, as I have really enjoyed the series. Although in saying that the romance was a slow burn, it is more that it took them awhile to move from friends to lovers, but once they got to that point, the relationship felt a bit rushed. Chris has been around in previous books, but not as a huge supporting role character in all honesty, and Daisy was a completely new character, never even before mentioned. Given Daisy was 16 when her Mom was murdered, and Chris was the sheriffs deputy first on scene, there has to be an age gap of several years, and I would have maybe liked a bit more of their history. How they became friends, how Chris started visiting her etc.
And, if you have read book 3, you know who the bad guy is, and if like me, you were a little upset….it is not better here. We know, while the book characters do not, just who the bad guy is, which makes every appearance and interaction he has with the characters, tense and rather creepy. And, while I was shocked, in a way it makes sense, in one of those “oh but he was such a nice guy” kind of ways. There were times I was really conflicted and almost wanted him to escape and get away with it somehow, in a “oh yes he is a murderer but he had reasons” sort of morally ambiguous way.
But this is just why it was such a good series overall. We are feeling what the characters were feeling, a sense of disbelief, betrayal, shock, and overall a sense of sadness and grief for the person we thought they were. The overall suspense arc throughout the series has been wonderfully crafted, managing to avoid the pitfall of making the villain cartoonish and ott or make zero sense whatsoever, but to make us as the reader conflicted, shocked, and just damn sad at the tragedy of it all.
I was half hoping/expecting the dude would get a book before the reveal in book 3. Any other series he bloody well would have done. Unlike a lot of book villains, especially in the romance genre, he was not OTT Evil. He had seemed like a pretty stand up guy, and probably was in most of his life, there was just this one area of his life that he was blind to, and would do anything for.
I have thoroughly enjoyed the series, and if this is indeed the end, I am gutted to be leaving this group pf people. I really hope the author somehow plans on revisiting them all.
August 30, 2020
Each story in the Search and Rescue series just got better and better! Katie Rugle did an amazing job writing Chris and Daisy's story.
After witnessing the murder of her mom when Daisy was 16, she was unable to leave the safety of her own home. Chris is a deputy on the police force, and just happens to be the one that killed the shooter that killed Daisy's mom. Chris is also the only link to the outside world and the only friend Daisy has. Although both of them have feelings for each other, neither of them feel that they are are deserving of being more than just friends. When Daisy witnesses a suspicious activity at the empty home for sale across the street, she has no idea that she just may be a killers next target.
Will Daisy's love for Chris give her the strength to be able to leave her home? In Safe Hands is full of suspense, emotion and romance, but if you haven't read the previous stories first, I highly recommend you do as this story is the conclusion to a murder and more that began in the first book.
After witnessing the murder of her mom when Daisy was 16, she was unable to leave the safety of her own home. Chris is a deputy on the police force, and just happens to be the one that killed the shooter that killed Daisy's mom. Chris is also the only link to the outside world and the only friend Daisy has. Although both of them have feelings for each other, neither of them feel that they are are deserving of being more than just friends. When Daisy witnesses a suspicious activity at the empty home for sale across the street, she has no idea that she just may be a killers next target.
Will Daisy's love for Chris give her the strength to be able to leave her home? In Safe Hands is full of suspense, emotion and romance, but if you haven't read the previous stories first, I highly recommend you do as this story is the conclusion to a murder and more that began in the first book.
September 30, 2016
Daisy has been unable to leave her house after a witnessing a violent crime eight years back. Just the thought of the outdoors sends her into a paralyzing panic! Deputy Chris Jennings and her father are basically her only connections to the outside world. Chris is her best friend, and Daisy silently yearns for them to be more, but feels they have no hope or future if she can’t get over her fears.
Suffering from insomnia Daisy prowls her empty house many nights in the wee hours, most nights it’s quite, but one night Daisy witnesses what looks like a crime, putting her life in danger. Chris rallies to her side and brings in Lou, who has been investigating the murder of Willard Gray since the first book, and and the rest of the gang to see if what Daisy saw fits in with the rest of the crimes happening in Simpson. All the while the killer is piecing together just how he can get at Daisy! I was very worried for her since Daisy was basically a sitting duck in her home, but thankfully she had Chris at her back. This brought to mind Rear Window with James Stewart, or Copycat with Sigourney Weaver; chilling to be trapped when the killer knows you’re a threat! Still, Daisy wasn’t a helpless puppy either. After years of training, courtesy of Chris, she kicks some major ass, and was capable of defending herself against attackers.
I adored Chris and Daisy! My heart went out to them and what they went through eight years back, and both are still haunted by the past. It was evident to anyone with eyes how gaga they were over each other; they just needed to get on the same page. This was definitely a slow burn romance, and it took some time, but the payoff was well worth it!
I was thrilled that Lou and Callum and the rest of the couples were featured so prominently in this story! Catching a glimpse of the happy couples was a treat, and they were a big support to Daisy.
In Safe Hands brings the Rocky Mountain Search & Rescue series to an end and the mystery behind the fires and murders is finally solved. Actually, the last book, Gone Too Deep, left us with a shocking revelation (I literally gasped!), the identity of the killer, and it was a complete surprise! The mystery wraps up in a heart pounding, action filled ending that had me on the edge of my seat! It’s been a fun, wild, and sometimes scary ride! I’m sorry to say goodbye to the characters, the small mountain town setting and the thrills! I’ll be on the lookout for whatever Ms. Ruggle comes up with next!
A copy was kindly provided by Sourcebooks Casablanca in exchange for an honest review.
This review is also posted at The Readers Den.
Suffering from insomnia Daisy prowls her empty house many nights in the wee hours, most nights it’s quite, but one night Daisy witnesses what looks like a crime, putting her life in danger. Chris rallies to her side and brings in Lou, who has been investigating the murder of Willard Gray since the first book, and and the rest of the gang to see if what Daisy saw fits in with the rest of the crimes happening in Simpson. All the while the killer is piecing together just how he can get at Daisy! I was very worried for her since Daisy was basically a sitting duck in her home, but thankfully she had Chris at her back. This brought to mind Rear Window with James Stewart, or Copycat with Sigourney Weaver; chilling to be trapped when the killer knows you’re a threat! Still, Daisy wasn’t a helpless puppy either. After years of training, courtesy of Chris, she kicks some major ass, and was capable of defending herself against attackers.
I adored Chris and Daisy! My heart went out to them and what they went through eight years back, and both are still haunted by the past. It was evident to anyone with eyes how gaga they were over each other; they just needed to get on the same page. This was definitely a slow burn romance, and it took some time, but the payoff was well worth it!
I was thrilled that Lou and Callum and the rest of the couples were featured so prominently in this story! Catching a glimpse of the happy couples was a treat, and they were a big support to Daisy.
In Safe Hands brings the Rocky Mountain Search & Rescue series to an end and the mystery behind the fires and murders is finally solved. Actually, the last book, Gone Too Deep, left us with a shocking revelation (I literally gasped!), the identity of the killer, and it was a complete surprise! The mystery wraps up in a heart pounding, action filled ending that had me on the edge of my seat! It’s been a fun, wild, and sometimes scary ride! I’m sorry to say goodbye to the characters, the small mountain town setting and the thrills! I’ll be on the lookout for whatever Ms. Ruggle comes up with next!
A copy was kindly provided by Sourcebooks Casablanca in exchange for an honest review.
This review is also posted at The Readers Den.
December 31, 2020
*** Reread 6/22/2018***
Still loved it. Daisy was a cute quirky heroine and Chris is still an amazingly sweet guy. Finally got a paperback copy for my Top Fave shelf at home. Bought the first three in this series I haven't read yet (but plan to soon!) to complete the collection :)
After watching her mom shot down dead by a would be robber, Daisy hasn't left her house. For eight years she's confined herself to the only home she's ever known and the only place she is convinced is really safe from the dangers outside. With an absent father who can barely stand to stay home for more than a few days, Daisy pretty much fends for herself, starting an online store to bring in income and trying to keep busy when her best friend and town deputy, Chris is working. When a case of insomnia keeps her up at night, Daisy settles in to watch the silent street until morning comes.
When she notices a deputy car parked in front of the vacant house across the street at 3 AM, it's a bit weird but not unheard of if there was a disturbance. What is weird and triggers her suspicions is the person coming out of said vacant house with a rolled up tarp over his shoulder. For one, the guy isn't wearing his uniform, and the tarp looks very much like a body was rolled inside. Could he be moving a dead body?
Better safe than sorry, Daisy takes a video with her cell phone and than mentions the whole thing to Chris the next day.
Her innocent observations trigger a chain of events that uncover some ongoing murder investigations and exposes the killer in their inner circle.
But it's not all dark and gloomy. Being thrust into this conspiracy also exposes Daisy to the outside world. She gets to meet liked minded people, girls her own age. She begins to see what all the fuss it about outside. With new found friends on the horizon and her feelings for Chris getting harder and harder to ignore, Daisy starts to fight her fear and reclaim the chance to have a normal life with the man she's loved for years.
What I liked/loved about it:
I loved the mystery, the unraveling of the whole arson/murders, the easy flow of the story and the amazing, super sweet, smoking hot awesomeness that is Chris and Daisy. These two were the best, they supported each other, loved and cared for each other. There was no needless drama for the sake of drama. Their story progressed at a nice pace, some might think it was a bit slow (they don't share a kiss until 57% and the smexy times happen around 67%) but it fit the characters, not only emotionally but with everything else gong on, it was nice to see things didn't get rushed over or skipped.
The way Daisy handled her agoraphobia was also done really well. Here is an heroine that sets out to get better FOR HERSELF. She loves Chris but she starts to challenge herself and push her own boundaries way before she even thinks about pursuing something with Chris, romantically. I really liked that she was strong enough for her own sake rather than pinning her need to get better on someone else.
Favorite Line(s):
The long awaited first kiss...
Memorable Moments:
I loved all the one on one time with Daisy and Chris (super sweet, funny but overall very laid back), the "girl talk" between Daisy, Lou, Ellie and Rory (They were so different but so connected as friends. I want to read all their individual stories next now!), and although Daisy's dad will never win a Father of the Year award, I liked that the author showed a softer side to him (even if it was creepy) when he tried to please Daisy by bringing her those demon dolls. That scene was funny but also made me see him as a person with a bit of gray, and not so much black and white.
SAFETY INFO:
Still loved it. Daisy was a cute quirky heroine and Chris is still an amazingly sweet guy. Finally got a paperback copy for my Top Fave shelf at home. Bought the first three in this series I haven't read yet (but plan to soon!) to complete the collection :)
After watching her mom shot down dead by a would be robber, Daisy hasn't left her house. For eight years she's confined herself to the only home she's ever known and the only place she is convinced is really safe from the dangers outside. With an absent father who can barely stand to stay home for more than a few days, Daisy pretty much fends for herself, starting an online store to bring in income and trying to keep busy when her best friend and town deputy, Chris is working. When a case of insomnia keeps her up at night, Daisy settles in to watch the silent street until morning comes.
When she notices a deputy car parked in front of the vacant house across the street at 3 AM, it's a bit weird but not unheard of if there was a disturbance. What is weird and triggers her suspicions is the person coming out of said vacant house with a rolled up tarp over his shoulder. For one, the guy isn't wearing his uniform, and the tarp looks very much like a body was rolled inside. Could he be moving a dead body?
Better safe than sorry, Daisy takes a video with her cell phone and than mentions the whole thing to Chris the next day.
Her innocent observations trigger a chain of events that uncover some ongoing murder investigations and exposes the killer in their inner circle.
But it's not all dark and gloomy. Being thrust into this conspiracy also exposes Daisy to the outside world. She gets to meet liked minded people, girls her own age. She begins to see what all the fuss it about outside. With new found friends on the horizon and her feelings for Chris getting harder and harder to ignore, Daisy starts to fight her fear and reclaim the chance to have a normal life with the man she's loved for years.
What I liked/loved about it:
I loved the mystery, the unraveling of the whole arson/murders, the easy flow of the story and the amazing, super sweet, smoking hot awesomeness that is Chris and Daisy. These two were the best, they supported each other, loved and cared for each other. There was no needless drama for the sake of drama. Their story progressed at a nice pace, some might think it was a bit slow (they don't share a kiss until 57% and the smexy times happen around 67%) but it fit the characters, not only emotionally but with everything else gong on, it was nice to see things didn't get rushed over or skipped.
The way Daisy handled her agoraphobia was also done really well. Here is an heroine that sets out to get better FOR HERSELF. She loves Chris but she starts to challenge herself and push her own boundaries way before she even thinks about pursuing something with Chris, romantically. I really liked that she was strong enough for her own sake rather than pinning her need to get better on someone else.
Favorite Line(s):
The long awaited first kiss...
When his lips touched hers, however, she knew she was awake. It was too intense, too incredible, too real for something created by her imagination.
Memorable Moments:
I loved all the one on one time with Daisy and Chris (super sweet, funny but overall very laid back), the "girl talk" between Daisy, Lou, Ellie and Rory (They were so different but so connected as friends. I want to read all their individual stories next now!), and although Daisy's dad will never win a Father of the Year award, I liked that the author showed a softer side to him (even if it was creepy) when he tried to please Daisy by bringing her those demon dolls. That scene was funny but also made me see him as a person with a bit of gray, and not so much black and white.
SAFETY INFO:
October 17, 2016
4 stars
In Safe Hands was such a good read.
I loved the storyline, my interest was held all throughout the book. The lead characters Daisy and Chris were likable & endearing and touched my heart watching them fall in love.
In Safe Hands has been a very entertaining series, author Katie Ruggle has done a wonderful job of blending romance with an ongoing suspenseful storyline that will keep you guessing until the end.
I've really enjoyed the Search and Rescue series, each book has been a joy to read and highly recommend it.
A big thank you to Sourcebooks Casablanca via Netgalley for the advance copy.
In Safe Hands was such a good read.
I loved the storyline, my interest was held all throughout the book. The lead characters Daisy and Chris were likable & endearing and touched my heart watching them fall in love.
In Safe Hands has been a very entertaining series, author Katie Ruggle has done a wonderful job of blending romance with an ongoing suspenseful storyline that will keep you guessing until the end.
I've really enjoyed the Search and Rescue series, each book has been a joy to read and highly recommend it.
A big thank you to Sourcebooks Casablanca via Netgalley for the advance copy.
September 8, 2016
Well the mystery finally gets solved in this book as to just why the Rocky Mountains town of Simpson has turned into a dangerous place to live recently. The killer has been quietly going about his business and as he methodically starts tying up all the loose ends there's just the little matter of nosey busybodies to take care of. Yes some secrets are worth doing anything for but can anyone stop him? At the end of the last book Gone Too Deep a huge and scarily preposterous revelation was made and this story starts right from that moment.
Daisy is an agoraphobic who since seeing her mum shot just can't leave her home . Luckily she has a firm friend in Chris the deputy that was the first to arrive on that tragic day . As time has passed though things have changed and now Daisy wants Chris to see her as more than just a friend . However her inability to go outside and just live a normal life keeps getting in her way. Oh she doesn't feel sorry for herself but it's fun watching the neighbours and all their antics .Daisy wishes the empty house across the street would sell so she'd have even more on the doorstep entertainment! Be careful what you wish for though as Daisy sees what looks like a dead body being sneaked out the empty house and the mystery man puts it in what looks like a squad car!
I've really enjoyed this series with its colourful characters and a mystery that just kept growing. This book featured all the couples we've previously loved as the ever effervescent Lou gets called by Chris to try and make sense of what Daisy thinks she saw. What follows is an introduction for Daisy to a life she had only dreamed of and friendships are formed along with theories that no one had considered before.
Now what's really clever is the way the author develops each character and has shown their personalities and quirks along the way. In this book it's a claustrophobic atmosphere as we suffer alongside Daisy but there's still time to remind us just why each book has been so addictive. These characters are interesting to read about and the macho posturing in this instalment was just so much fun! I get that the ladies playing some kind of super sleuth might seem odd to some but trust me this is a well written and imaginative series . Now if only I could prise George away from Ellie but alas no as these romances whilst slow burning feel real and Ms Ruggle I salute you for such an entertaining series
I was gifted a copy from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
Daisy is an agoraphobic who since seeing her mum shot just can't leave her home . Luckily she has a firm friend in Chris the deputy that was the first to arrive on that tragic day . As time has passed though things have changed and now Daisy wants Chris to see her as more than just a friend . However her inability to go outside and just live a normal life keeps getting in her way. Oh she doesn't feel sorry for herself but it's fun watching the neighbours and all their antics .Daisy wishes the empty house across the street would sell so she'd have even more on the doorstep entertainment! Be careful what you wish for though as Daisy sees what looks like a dead body being sneaked out the empty house and the mystery man puts it in what looks like a squad car!
I've really enjoyed this series with its colourful characters and a mystery that just kept growing. This book featured all the couples we've previously loved as the ever effervescent Lou gets called by Chris to try and make sense of what Daisy thinks she saw. What follows is an introduction for Daisy to a life she had only dreamed of and friendships are formed along with theories that no one had considered before.
Now what's really clever is the way the author develops each character and has shown their personalities and quirks along the way. In this book it's a claustrophobic atmosphere as we suffer alongside Daisy but there's still time to remind us just why each book has been so addictive. These characters are interesting to read about and the macho posturing in this instalment was just so much fun! I get that the ladies playing some kind of super sleuth might seem odd to some but trust me this is a well written and imaginative series . Now if only I could prise George away from Ellie but alas no as these romances whilst slow burning feel real and Ms Ruggle I salute you for such an entertaining series
I was gifted a copy from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
May 23, 2018
And the last one bites the dust!
I'm pretty surprised to admit how great a series this has been!
I totally wasn't expecting that. I thought I'd read one book and like it but that'd be the end as far as the series goes. Little did I know I'd blaze through the entire thing and then seriously contemplate reading the K9 series!
Right so this book. I loved how though each book technically had it's own "mystery" but there was an underlining plot that was carried out through all the books that was laid to rest in here.
At the end of book three we found out who the "bad guy" was and I hated it. I totally saw it and wasn't surprised but I still hated it. Now the other "bad guy", (Oh yeah, there was more than one), did surprise me, sort of but it totally fit, you could tell it had all been well thought out before hand and wasn't a half-assed thing which you unfortunately see quite often now.
After book three and it's big reveal, every time I thought about reading this my mind would go
I've already said this a bunch of times but I hated the bad guy development because I liked the character but here's the thing. By the time this book ended I was up and ready to head my own lynch mob.
You heard me and if that ain't good writing, I don't know what it is.
This book was probably my least favourite when it came to the MCs which is pretty sucky cause I was looking forward to Chris's story from book one and Daisy's story ever since book two.
Now I liked Daisy and how her phobia was dealt. I have no personal experience with that type of fear nor do I know someone who has it but you might and therefore disagree with me here but I have other fears and this fit along with how I personally deal with those myself. Slow and steady. Baby steps. It isn't a race if I'm the only one in it.
So I guess through the process of elimination the problem was with Chris. I really liked him definitely especially with Daisy but you know how when you're reading and you love a side character cause they're so funny and responsible and all around just a great person but then you get to their own book they lose their spark?
That was the case here. He just wasn't the same guy.
Not bad but...
But that's it, well except for not liking Daisy's dad but I kinda understood where he was coming from so I wasn't terribly mad.
Now off to get the K9 series! :D
February 20, 2022
4.5 another hit for this series. I cannot stress enough just how good this whole series is.
Safe; Virgin heroine. My only complaint about this book is that we get absolutely no mention of the hero's past ...and since it's friends to lovers... it would have been nice to know that he wasn't seeing other people after realizing that he had feelings for the heroine. I hated the not knowing sometimes.
Safe; Virgin heroine. My only complaint about this book is that we get absolutely no mention of the hero's past ...and since it's friends to lovers... it would have been nice to know that he wasn't seeing other people after realizing that he had feelings for the heroine. I hated the not knowing sometimes.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 16, 2016
It was what she saw through her window on the world that almost got agoraphobic Daisy killed. It was new friends and a budding romance that kept her sane and gave her the strength to push her boundaries. But it was love that re-opened the doors to the world around her.
Here it is, the wrap for Katie Ruggle’s Search and Rescue series and amateur sleuths, Romantic mystery and suspense lovers are going to love In Safe Hands with its slightly different look at the small town of Simpson.
As Daisy tries to alert the sheriff of what she has seen, the only one to believe her is Chris, and he will risk his life and his job to keep her safe. Together with her newfound girlfriends, Daisy will piece together the facts, the hunches and the proof of who is the mystery killer and the heartbreaking reasons why. These reason as exactly why Daisy is in danger and her home is no longer the fortress she once thought it was. Is it coincidence that she would have a gas leak or that she notices something is just not right in her house? What about the strange noises she is hearing?
Always her rock, Chris is there, big, strong and willing to give her a soothing hug, but he wants more. Is Daisy ready to find love? When things go from bad to deadly, her greatest test will loom before her…is she up to the challenge?
For me, this was the best of the series, all the past characters coming together, and a HUGE twist as finally, Simpson can be the safe little hamlet it was meant to be. Katie Ruggle has brought the warmth of friendships, romance and trust together while solving one of Simpson’s greatest mysteries like a pro!
I received an ARC edition from Sourcebooks Casablanca in exchange for my honest review.
Series: Search and Rescue - Book 4
Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca (October 4, 2016)
Publication Date: October 4, 2016
ISBN-10: 1492628263
ISBN-13: 978-1492628262
Genre: Romantic Mystery
Print Length: 416 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
Here it is, the wrap for Katie Ruggle’s Search and Rescue series and amateur sleuths, Romantic mystery and suspense lovers are going to love In Safe Hands with its slightly different look at the small town of Simpson.
As Daisy tries to alert the sheriff of what she has seen, the only one to believe her is Chris, and he will risk his life and his job to keep her safe. Together with her newfound girlfriends, Daisy will piece together the facts, the hunches and the proof of who is the mystery killer and the heartbreaking reasons why. These reason as exactly why Daisy is in danger and her home is no longer the fortress she once thought it was. Is it coincidence that she would have a gas leak or that she notices something is just not right in her house? What about the strange noises she is hearing?
Always her rock, Chris is there, big, strong and willing to give her a soothing hug, but he wants more. Is Daisy ready to find love? When things go from bad to deadly, her greatest test will loom before her…is she up to the challenge?
For me, this was the best of the series, all the past characters coming together, and a HUGE twist as finally, Simpson can be the safe little hamlet it was meant to be. Katie Ruggle has brought the warmth of friendships, romance and trust together while solving one of Simpson’s greatest mysteries like a pro!
I received an ARC edition from Sourcebooks Casablanca in exchange for my honest review.
Series: Search and Rescue - Book 4
Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca (October 4, 2016)
Publication Date: October 4, 2016
ISBN-10: 1492628263
ISBN-13: 978-1492628262
Genre: Romantic Mystery
Print Length: 416 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
December 9, 2023
2.75 stars
🔪I love these suspense romance reads and have been reading more and more. So I’m gonna break them down differently from my other reviews.
I don’t want to give any spoilers away so you can go into it it blind and enjoy all the twists and turns❤️.
Ratings 0-5 Star Scale
😮Mystery/Suspense-
2 stars
We know who the bad guy is from the beginning and 😭😭 I was so sad and disappointed. There was a bit of suspense but not a lot.
I didn’t like who the bad guy was AT ALL!
I absolutely think this book NEEDED the hero’s POV. So we could get out of the h head and have more adventures like the previous books.
❤️🔥Romance/Chemistry-
3 stars I didn’t love the dynamic
She was a shut in for 8 yrs and he had a normal life but came to visit her. We never got info on his last sexual encounter 😡 or any history at all. This is friends to lovers so that’s super important. We know she hasn’t been w anymore in 8 yrs at least if ever. She was 16 when she became a shut in. And he definitely wasn’t celibate for 8yrs if ever.
WE NEEDED MORE DETAILS OF HIS PAST!
🚹Hero-
3 stars
He was sweet and protective but I didn’t like that he rejected cause of his guilt. Honestly he should have talked to her earlier. And she had the disadvantage of not living in the real world or coming in contact with OP.
🚺Heroine-
2 stars
She had serious mental issues and I didn’t connect with her at all. I wish the author allowed her to spend more time adjusting to the real world not just making it so easy after her first time out. Maybe if she did it earlier?
⚠️Safety-
No talks of past on either
It’s highly unlikely the H was celibate for the 8 yrs while we know the h was.
Mental issues
Shut in
Arson
Friends to lovers 🙄
🎧Audiobook Narration-
4 stars
Good audiobook easy to listen to
3rd person told in the h POV and the villain
🥰Overall Enjoyment-
I enjoyed book 1 & 3 of this series I wanted to wrap up the story Arc but I don’t love this book
🔪I love these suspense romance reads and have been reading more and more. So I’m gonna break them down differently from my other reviews.
I don’t want to give any spoilers away so you can go into it it blind and enjoy all the twists and turns❤️.
Ratings 0-5 Star Scale
😮Mystery/Suspense-
2 stars
We know who the bad guy is from the beginning and 😭😭 I was so sad and disappointed. There was a bit of suspense but not a lot.
I didn’t like who the bad guy was AT ALL!
I absolutely think this book NEEDED the hero’s POV. So we could get out of the h head and have more adventures like the previous books.
❤️🔥Romance/Chemistry-
3 stars I didn’t love the dynamic
She was a shut in for 8 yrs and he had a normal life but came to visit her. We never got info on his last sexual encounter 😡 or any history at all. This is friends to lovers so that’s super important. We know she hasn’t been w anymore in 8 yrs at least if ever. She was 16 when she became a shut in. And he definitely wasn’t celibate for 8yrs if ever.
WE NEEDED MORE DETAILS OF HIS PAST!
🚹Hero-
3 stars
He was sweet and protective but I didn’t like that he rejected cause of his guilt. Honestly he should have talked to her earlier. And she had the disadvantage of not living in the real world or coming in contact with OP.
🚺Heroine-
2 stars
She had serious mental issues and I didn’t connect with her at all. I wish the author allowed her to spend more time adjusting to the real world not just making it so easy after her first time out. Maybe if she did it earlier?
⚠️Safety-
No talks of past on either
It’s highly unlikely the H was celibate for the 8 yrs while we know the h was.
Mental issues
Shut in
Arson
Friends to lovers 🙄
🎧Audiobook Narration-
4 stars
Good audiobook easy to listen to
3rd person told in the h POV and the villain
🥰Overall Enjoyment-
I enjoyed book 1 & 3 of this series I wanted to wrap up the story Arc but I don’t love this book
September 4, 2019
Daisy Little is agoraphobic ever since witnessing her mother murdered. She is a recluse, her only connections are to her dad and her friend, Deputy Chris Jennings, he was the 1st responder to her mother's murder. They have a unique friendship but when she feels frisky and kiss him she feels it changes.
This book picked up as the previous in the series ended and the secret of who the killer of the headless man and the fires are revealed and its is a doozy!!!!! When Daisy starts see strange things happening she goes to Chris and that leads to more danger. See Daisy lives for people watching through her windows, ones that are over locked and barred.
Her will to be different will be added with the beginning of friendships with Rory, Lou and Ellie as they train in Daisy's super cool gym within her house.
This series was a wild and great ride!
This book picked up as the previous in the series ended and the secret of who the killer of the headless man and the fires are revealed and its is a doozy!!!!! When Daisy starts see strange things happening she goes to Chris and that leads to more danger. See Daisy lives for people watching through her windows, ones that are over locked and barred.
Her will to be different will be added with the beginning of friendships with Rory, Lou and Ellie as they train in Daisy's super cool gym within her house.
This series was a wild and great ride!
May 14, 2021
Book three ended on a doozy of a reveal. I honestly went into this one nearly breathless with excitement to see how things would play out. Because I had a hard time reconciling that reveal with what I wanted to happen. But, HOLY BANANAS, this book did not disappoint.
Sometimes the bad guys are hiding in plain sight and if you look hard enough you see all the things they try to keep hidden.
Daisy knows this better than most. Her agoraphobia has kept her housebound for years and she entertains herself by watching her neighbors as they go about their daily lives. Her window watching lands her in the middle of the killer's crosshairs when she sees something the killer wishes she wouldn't have.
And that, my friends, is when things start getting sticky.
Danger! Romance! More danger! Daisy's issues leave her balanced between wanting to help and worrying that she's crossed the line into full-on crazy. Especially when a person in authority begins questioning if she saw what she saw. Good thing she has a hunky deputy on her side who KNOWS her almost better than she knows herself. Chris takes her concerns seriously and that helps bolster her confidence.
Plus, he's awful pretty to look at.
I loved revisiting the couples we've met in the previous books and seeing them settle into their own relationships. I loved how Daisy and Chris brought out the best in each other. The only thing that's a downer is that I don't have another book to look forward to. Because I really liked the strong men and women we got to meet on this adventure and I'd totally be down for them causing more shenanigans.
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
Sometimes the bad guys are hiding in plain sight and if you look hard enough you see all the things they try to keep hidden.
Daisy knows this better than most. Her agoraphobia has kept her housebound for years and she entertains herself by watching her neighbors as they go about their daily lives. Her window watching lands her in the middle of the killer's crosshairs when she sees something the killer wishes she wouldn't have.
And that, my friends, is when things start getting sticky.
Danger! Romance! More danger! Daisy's issues leave her balanced between wanting to help and worrying that she's crossed the line into full-on crazy. Especially when a person in authority begins questioning if she saw what she saw. Good thing she has a hunky deputy on her side who KNOWS her almost better than she knows herself. Chris takes her concerns seriously and that helps bolster her confidence.
Plus, he's awful pretty to look at.
I loved revisiting the couples we've met in the previous books and seeing them settle into their own relationships. I loved how Daisy and Chris brought out the best in each other. The only thing that's a downer is that I don't have another book to look forward to. Because I really liked the strong men and women we got to meet on this adventure and I'd totally be down for them causing more shenanigans.
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
July 30, 2018
I originally picked up this book because I found the premise interesting, but when I found another connected series to this one by the author, I put these books higher on my TBR mountain. Even then, I was inundated with Romantic suspense books at the time, and this series went on the back burner. Coming back to the series with this book was somewhat of a let down for me.
This book is culmination of the overall arc that had been building in the entire series to date. The reveals in this book were not ones that I was expecting, which told me that the suspense angle had been done really well! However, the romance in this installment was where things petered out for me.
I loved that Chris was supportive of Daisy, even when her own father wasn't. However, Chris' reluctance to get into a relationship with Daisy in the first place really rankled me, because he seemed to take it too far and didn't communicate with her about it for a good portion of the book! Daisy's exit from therapy wasn't well explained to me, so I had problems with some of her recovery methods. I loved the fact that the secondary plot line seemed to be an ensemble of the rest of the couples of the series! That really tied things together for me!
I have to say, I enjoyed the writing style of the author. I was immediately engrossed in the book, but didn't feel lost because it had been so long between books for me. While this installment went par for the course with the series, I think the author holds promise, and I am looking forward to reading more of her work!
This book is culmination of the overall arc that had been building in the entire series to date. The reveals in this book were not ones that I was expecting, which told me that the suspense angle had been done really well! However, the romance in this installment was where things petered out for me.
I loved that Chris was supportive of Daisy, even when her own father wasn't. However, Chris' reluctance to get into a relationship with Daisy in the first place really rankled me, because he seemed to take it too far and didn't communicate with her about it for a good portion of the book! Daisy's exit from therapy wasn't well explained to me, so I had problems with some of her recovery methods. I loved the fact that the secondary plot line seemed to be an ensemble of the rest of the couples of the series! That really tied things together for me!
I have to say, I enjoyed the writing style of the author. I was immediately engrossed in the book, but didn't feel lost because it had been so long between books for me. While this installment went par for the course with the series, I think the author holds promise, and I am looking forward to reading more of her work!
October 11, 2016
This is book 4 in the Search and Rescue and brings the long awaited conclusion to the on-going mystery of who set the various fires that have occurred in the prior books and who killed HDG (headless dead guy) and other assorted people.
Once again Ms. Ruggle has created a unique heroine in Daisy Little. She watched her mother murdered when she was 16 and has been agoraphoric for the last 8 years locking herself into her dad's home. She has very little contact with the outside world with the exception of her dad and Chris, the cop who shot her mom's murderer and has become her friend.
She neighbor watches from her bedroom window which has her catching events that pull her into the investigations surrounding the fires and murders. She then gets pulled into trying to find answers with the couples from the first three books. I did like the relationship she had with Chris and the development of friends to lovers. Due to her agoraphobia, most of the book is taking place at her home which gives the reader the confined feeling that her life has.
All four couples in the book are into working out in Daisy's home gym and although I did think about going down to our gym, I decided to keep reading instead.
The story and the "reveal" of who and why was good. There were some really nice suspense scenes but there were also some moments when the dialogue and group happenings seemed a little OTT and I wanted to get back to the suspense elements of the plot.
Ms Ruggle has a nice writing style and has developed a nice setting and character group. I definitely fall more into the romantic suspense genre versus strictly romance genre and appreciate that there is more to the stories than just relationships. I would definitely like to see her continue writing about other members of the Fire, Dive and Sheriff's office. Although going forward, I would definitely prefer stand-alone books.
I received this book as an ARC from NetGalley.
Once again Ms. Ruggle has created a unique heroine in Daisy Little. She watched her mother murdered when she was 16 and has been agoraphoric for the last 8 years locking herself into her dad's home. She has very little contact with the outside world with the exception of her dad and Chris, the cop who shot her mom's murderer and has become her friend.
She neighbor watches from her bedroom window which has her catching events that pull her into the investigations surrounding the fires and murders. She then gets pulled into trying to find answers with the couples from the first three books. I did like the relationship she had with Chris and the development of friends to lovers. Due to her agoraphobia, most of the book is taking place at her home which gives the reader the confined feeling that her life has.
All four couples in the book are into working out in Daisy's home gym and although I did think about going down to our gym, I decided to keep reading instead.
The story and the "reveal" of who and why was good. There were some really nice suspense scenes but there were also some moments when the dialogue and group happenings seemed a little OTT and I wanted to get back to the suspense elements of the plot.
Ms Ruggle has a nice writing style and has developed a nice setting and character group. I definitely fall more into the romantic suspense genre versus strictly romance genre and appreciate that there is more to the stories than just relationships. I would definitely like to see her continue writing about other members of the Fire, Dive and Sheriff's office. Although going forward, I would definitely prefer stand-alone books.
I received this book as an ARC from NetGalley.
January 5, 2025
A very good wrap up to the series. You have a pretty good idea on what the suspense plot will turn out to be so the whole book is a lot of tension waiting for the dam to break. It was a delight seeing all the couples come together and the friendships between them all solidify. Also appreciate that it's a four book series and not some drawn out 27 book series that you lose interest in around book 5.
April 25, 2017
IN SAFE HANDS picks up right after GONE TO DEEP whose draw dropping reveal in the last paragraph had me immediately grabbing my earbuds. I needed answers.
I immediately identified with Daisy Little. While the outside world is a tad too people-ly for me and I could happily live within the confounds of my home, a horrific and tragic incident has left Daisy a complete agoraphobic. She lives in her father's home with a series of fail-safes and relies on him bringing in fresh groceries and purchasing flea market finds that she restores and sells online. Chris Jennings, a member of the Field County Sheriff's department knows what Daisy experienced that day and is her closest friend. He wants more but is content with protecting her.
Being trapped in your home with a father who travels can get lonely and as a result, Daisy people watches. As in her neighbor's comings and goings. When a sleepless night has her witnessing a crime at a vacant home across the street things turn deadly.
IN SAFE HANDS delivered an addictive story line. We know who the killer is and it amped up the suspense as the killer was one step ahead of Daisy and Chris. I loved how Ruggle introduced Daisy to the characters from the previous book. It all worked seamlessly from discussing the murders, stalking and more. Chris was such an incredible sweetie. All of the men in this series have been strong, faithful and honorable. It was so refreshing. I loved the interaction between him and Daisy. This was a true "friends to lovers" romance that was sweet, awkward, funny and passionate.
The mystery and reasons for the murders were solid and Ruggle delivered a non-stop, hold your breath action packed ending!
If you haven't started the series, I highly recommend the audios. Rachel Dulude was perfect for this series and captured the perspective of each character. Her pacing and tone added an additional layer of suspense. Her voices for the male characters were exceptional.
Audio provided by publisher. This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Book Reviewer
I immediately identified with Daisy Little. While the outside world is a tad too people-ly for me and I could happily live within the confounds of my home, a horrific and tragic incident has left Daisy a complete agoraphobic. She lives in her father's home with a series of fail-safes and relies on him bringing in fresh groceries and purchasing flea market finds that she restores and sells online. Chris Jennings, a member of the Field County Sheriff's department knows what Daisy experienced that day and is her closest friend. He wants more but is content with protecting her.
Being trapped in your home with a father who travels can get lonely and as a result, Daisy people watches. As in her neighbor's comings and goings. When a sleepless night has her witnessing a crime at a vacant home across the street things turn deadly.
IN SAFE HANDS delivered an addictive story line. We know who the killer is and it amped up the suspense as the killer was one step ahead of Daisy and Chris. I loved how Ruggle introduced Daisy to the characters from the previous book. It all worked seamlessly from discussing the murders, stalking and more. Chris was such an incredible sweetie. All of the men in this series have been strong, faithful and honorable. It was so refreshing. I loved the interaction between him and Daisy. This was a true "friends to lovers" romance that was sweet, awkward, funny and passionate.
The mystery and reasons for the murders were solid and Ruggle delivered a non-stop, hold your breath action packed ending!
If you haven't started the series, I highly recommend the audios. Rachel Dulude was perfect for this series and captured the perspective of each character. Her pacing and tone added an additional layer of suspense. Her voices for the male characters were exceptional.
Audio provided by publisher. This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Book Reviewer
September 18, 2016
This review is going to be brief and spoiler free since this book is basically one big spoiler for the entire series. At the end of the last book, Gone Too Deep, we got a glimpse at the killer that has been at the center of the investigation since book one, Hold Your Breath. This one digs into all of his dirty deeds, motivation, and his need to continue to hide his tracks and get rid of any loose ends.
Unfortunately, Daisy Little has just put herself into the category of loose end. She's a shut-in who watches the world through her windows behind locked doors and one night she sees something she was not supposed to.
Her only friend, Deputy Chris Jennings, has been her protector for years...since the incident that made her close herself of from the dangerous outside world. They share a connection, camaraderie, and a hidden attraction. Chris introduces her to his search and rescue friends who have been doing their own investigation into the body found in book one. Lou, Callum, Ian, Rory, Elle, and George multiply her friends list as they begin coming into her home and make her part of their amateur sleuthing team. But there are antagonists working to maintain secrets and hide their crimes and Daisy is now on their radar.
Are her new friends and Chris enough to keep her safe? Is her safe house really safe or will it become a trap?
The relationship with Chris is a slow build. They are longtime friends, he takes on a protector and helper role, and they hide their feelings and attraction. He's got issues that make him try to keep her at arm's length. And she has self worth issues on top of her shut-in status that make her feel vulnerable and undesirable.
But as the danger and suspense grows, so does the depth of their attachment and willingness to admit it. In a small town with strange activities and threats that keep coming, it is hard to know who to trust. This installment finally gives us all of the answers we have been seeking and solves the mysteries. And it builds with a layering of suspense and danger, to a pulse pounding climax. This one focuses a lot on the crimes and some on the relationship, but it is also about Daisy dealing with her past and finding ways to empower herself and heal. And her relationship with Chris is just one small part of the puzzle.
This series has been interesting with each book focusing on different aspects of the search and rescue divisions with strong, quirky characters and multiple antagonists with nefarious intentions. It has been fun seeing their relationships build, grow, and to become a tight knit group that looks out for each other.
I was gifted a copy in exchange for an honest review.
Follow Me: Reviews by Tammy & Kim | Facebook | Twitter
Unfortunately, Daisy Little has just put herself into the category of loose end. She's a shut-in who watches the world through her windows behind locked doors and one night she sees something she was not supposed to.
Her only friend, Deputy Chris Jennings, has been her protector for years...since the incident that made her close herself of from the dangerous outside world. They share a connection, camaraderie, and a hidden attraction. Chris introduces her to his search and rescue friends who have been doing their own investigation into the body found in book one. Lou, Callum, Ian, Rory, Elle, and George multiply her friends list as they begin coming into her home and make her part of their amateur sleuthing team. But there are antagonists working to maintain secrets and hide their crimes and Daisy is now on their radar.
Are her new friends and Chris enough to keep her safe? Is her safe house really safe or will it become a trap?
The relationship with Chris is a slow build. They are longtime friends, he takes on a protector and helper role, and they hide their feelings and attraction. He's got issues that make him try to keep her at arm's length. And she has self worth issues on top of her shut-in status that make her feel vulnerable and undesirable.
But as the danger and suspense grows, so does the depth of their attachment and willingness to admit it. In a small town with strange activities and threats that keep coming, it is hard to know who to trust. This installment finally gives us all of the answers we have been seeking and solves the mysteries. And it builds with a layering of suspense and danger, to a pulse pounding climax. This one focuses a lot on the crimes and some on the relationship, but it is also about Daisy dealing with her past and finding ways to empower herself and heal. And her relationship with Chris is just one small part of the puzzle.
This series has been interesting with each book focusing on different aspects of the search and rescue divisions with strong, quirky characters and multiple antagonists with nefarious intentions. It has been fun seeing their relationships build, grow, and to become a tight knit group that looks out for each other.
I was gifted a copy in exchange for an honest review.
Follow Me: Reviews by Tammy & Kim | Facebook | Twitter
October 5, 2016
IN SAFE HANDS seems to be a little bit of a different book. Instead of being a typical Romantic Suspense, this one has a more Thriller vibe to it. It’s not as playful as the first book in the series was and it definitely has a more darker tone to it but it definitely fits the characters of the book.
Daisy Little is a very interesting character. Her past is quite dark and it had greatly affected her future so much so that she is living in a constant state of fear. She is agoraphobic and I loved that the author chose to feature a character with this kind of vulnerability. When she sees something outside of her house that looks very much like murder, she quickly tells Chris what she saw.
What I liked about this is the fact that Chris completely believes her. He doesn’t think she is unnecessarily paranoid and you can tell that he respect her a lot. Unfortunately for me, I didn’t believe in the romance. It came across more as a friendship to me and while it does grow and heat up as the book goes on, I actually had to stop reading for a moment to check the blurb of this story to see who the hero was because for whatever reason when Chris walked onto the page, he did not make enough of a statement for me to see him as the hero of the book. For a moment, I thought he might just be a side character and that’s not good at all.
Like I mentioned earlier, this has a different tone than the rest of the books. It’s more serious, a bit darker in tone because of the Thriller aspect to it but it does have a good mystery. I just don’t think the romance balanced well with everything else that was happening.
Also, I think the covers of this series are misleading. They feature hot men and while the guys are enjoyable, the covers seem to lean towards the Romance audience when so far, I feel like the books are a little more geared to Mystery and Thriller readers. I’m just looking for a more solid romance and hopefully in the next book, I’ll get that.
August 21, 2016
This is the final book in the Rocky Mountain Search & Rescue series. Daisy Little has been stuck in her house ever since she saw her mother killed in a robbery. She has a raging case of agoraphobia. She keeps track of the world through her upstairs bedroom window. One night she sees what she thinks is a man with a sheriff's department vehicle hauling something out of the for sale house across the street. Daisy believes that it is a body.
Her only contact to the outside world except for her father who travels a lot is Chris who is a sheriff's deputy. Chris has been her friend and her support ever since her mother died. He was, in fact, the deputy who took down the shooter. When she calls the police to report what she saw, she draws the attention of the sheriff who seems to be doing all he can to make her look like a crazy, attention-seeking publicity hound.
Chris gradually introduces Daisy to his circle of friends allowing us to catch up with the romantic pairs from the earlier books in the series. Together, the women put all the various pieces of the crime wave from arson to murder together to come up with a suspect. Then, they just have to convince the men, especially Chris, that they have found the right suspect.
This was an engaging story with all sorts of suspenseful scenes. I liked the way Daisy's world gradually expanded as she opened up to a new group of friends who accept her as she is but, at the same time, encourage her to become more.
Since we found out who the murder was at the end of the previous book, his identity wasn't the new thing in this book. However, bringing him to justice wasn't going to be an easy thing to do since he held the position he did.
This was an engaging series filled with interesting characters and really great romances.
Her only contact to the outside world except for her father who travels a lot is Chris who is a sheriff's deputy. Chris has been her friend and her support ever since her mother died. He was, in fact, the deputy who took down the shooter. When she calls the police to report what she saw, she draws the attention of the sheriff who seems to be doing all he can to make her look like a crazy, attention-seeking publicity hound.
Chris gradually introduces Daisy to his circle of friends allowing us to catch up with the romantic pairs from the earlier books in the series. Together, the women put all the various pieces of the crime wave from arson to murder together to come up with a suspect. Then, they just have to convince the men, especially Chris, that they have found the right suspect.
This was an engaging story with all sorts of suspenseful scenes. I liked the way Daisy's world gradually expanded as she opened up to a new group of friends who accept her as she is but, at the same time, encourage her to become more.
Since we found out who the murder was at the end of the previous book, his identity wasn't the new thing in this book. However, bringing him to justice wasn't going to be an easy thing to do since he held the position he did.
This was an engaging series filled with interesting characters and really great romances.
October 28, 2016
How have I managed to miss the rest of this series? I picked this up because the heroine is agoraphobic and I'm always looking for something different. This story just flowed along seamlessly. The secondary characters felt real and not just stuffed in because they had been in the first 3 books in the series and the kudos to the author for not shoehorning in a retelling of each of their stories. That is a mistake which most authors of series make which can really drag down a current story.
The romance was sweet and believable and I really liked both the hero and the heroine. The heroine's story arc with her agoraphobia was well done and I really believed her progression.
I'm going to go back and read the rest of the series now and definitely want to try the upcoming series that was previewed in the back of this book.
The romance was sweet and believable and I really liked both the hero and the heroine. The heroine's story arc with her agoraphobia was well done and I really believed her progression.
I'm going to go back and read the rest of the series now and definitely want to try the upcoming series that was previewed in the back of this book.
October 5, 2016
Link to full review below!I wish this series would go on forever... So much love for these books! See full review on The Book Disciple
January 26, 2018
I will miss this quirky little town with all its hot men and hermit women!The series was charming, funny and addicting, and definitely a fun read!
April 16, 2017
4.5-5 stars
**This review might be considered spoilerish because I'm going to mention who the bad guy is. He was identified at the end of book #3 so this shouldn't actually be a spoiler but be warned**
This was a great story. I really liked both Daisy and Chris and their story was great and was hard to put down.
Daisy is an agoraphobic woman that can't leave her house. Daisy saw her mother killed in front of her at the age of 16 and since then, for the last 8 years, she's only had her father and Chris for company. Chris has been her best friend and she has interest in more with him but doesn't think he feels the same or would even want someone that can't leave their house without freaking out.
Chris is a deputy with the local police department and has been for a little over 8 years. Chris was the first responder at the robbery in which Daisy's mother was killed and he's always felt like it was his fault. He's had an interest in Daisy for a while but he blamed himself for her mother's death and always thought she must as well and wouldn't want anything more than friendship with him.
Daisy's father works in construction and although he comes home occasionally, he seems to spend most time on jobs out of town. TBH, I didn't like him that much...he seemed selfish and like he'd prefer to avoid Daisy rather than (begrudgingly) being there for her. Other than her father, Daisy only really sees Chris. Daisy gets bored at times and tends to watch the neighborhood outside of her window to see if anything interesting is going on. One night when Daisy can't sleep, she sees a police SUV parked at an empty house across the street and wonders what is going on. She sees someone carrying a tarp-wrapped bundle out of the house and putting it into the SUV and doesn't know what to think. When a boot falls out of the end of the tarp, Daisy is sure it's a body and takes a video on her phone. Unfortunately, it's very dark out and the person can't be identified on the video. Daisy doesn't know what to do so she decides to show Chris in the morning.
At the end of book #3, the killer that's been causing problems in the previous books is IDed as the Sheriff, Rob. Because of this, when Chris goes to Rob with what Daisy saw, Rob shuts it down. Rob also tries to use his position to make Daisy seem delusional and like she's just trying to seek attention by making reports that aren't true. He even makes it difficult for her to get help by having the police dispatch send any calls from her directly to him instead of responding directly. I think having the bad guy be a person in power really made the story more gripping and a bit more stressful because everyone trusts him. Daisy gets the idea that Rob doesn't like her and she's unsure about him but even then, she doesn't even begin to suspect how bad he is! I was constantly wondering what Rob (and his accomplice) had planned for Daisy and it made it difficult to put down the book. When I went to sleep, I dreamed about the story and woke up thinking about it and anxious to start reading it again to see what would happen next.
While Daisy is dealing with the repercussions of seeing what she shouldn't have seen, Chris actually brings Lou, Rory and Ellie (and their significant others) into things and they all become friends with Daisy. Daisy gets pulled into the murder-solving club that Lou and Callum started when Willard Grey was murdered and they start putting together pieces of who could be responsible for the killings and the arsons taking place around their tiny town. Meanwhile, Rob and his accomplice go about finding ways to reduce the danger Daisy poses to them, which gives Chris and Daisy a lot of problems to get through. Thankfully, even with everything that is going on, Daisy and Chris finally make their connection and start the relationship they've both been wanting for a while. After some major drama and danger, the bad guys are caught (finally) and Daisy and Chris get their well deserved HEA together.
I really enjoyed this story a lot...it was very gripping. I really liked Daisy and liked how she handled her situation and all. Chris was a really good hero and I was happy that he finally got a clue and went after Daisy. This was a great story and wrapped up the overlying series storyline very well. I really had a hard time putting it down and would definitely recommend it (but it might be a bit confusing if you haven't read the previous books in the series first). :D
* note - I listened to the audio version of this story and the narrator did a very good job.
**This review might be considered spoilerish because I'm going to mention who the bad guy is. He was identified at the end of book #3 so this shouldn't actually be a spoiler but be warned**
This was a great story. I really liked both Daisy and Chris and their story was great and was hard to put down.
Daisy is an agoraphobic woman that can't leave her house. Daisy saw her mother killed in front of her at the age of 16 and since then, for the last 8 years, she's only had her father and Chris for company. Chris has been her best friend and she has interest in more with him but doesn't think he feels the same or would even want someone that can't leave their house without freaking out.
Chris is a deputy with the local police department and has been for a little over 8 years. Chris was the first responder at the robbery in which Daisy's mother was killed and he's always felt like it was his fault. He's had an interest in Daisy for a while but he blamed himself for her mother's death and always thought she must as well and wouldn't want anything more than friendship with him.
Daisy's father works in construction and although he comes home occasionally, he seems to spend most time on jobs out of town. TBH, I didn't like him that much...he seemed selfish and like he'd prefer to avoid Daisy rather than (begrudgingly) being there for her. Other than her father, Daisy only really sees Chris. Daisy gets bored at times and tends to watch the neighborhood outside of her window to see if anything interesting is going on. One night when Daisy can't sleep, she sees a police SUV parked at an empty house across the street and wonders what is going on. She sees someone carrying a tarp-wrapped bundle out of the house and putting it into the SUV and doesn't know what to think. When a boot falls out of the end of the tarp, Daisy is sure it's a body and takes a video on her phone. Unfortunately, it's very dark out and the person can't be identified on the video. Daisy doesn't know what to do so she decides to show Chris in the morning.
At the end of book #3, the killer that's been causing problems in the previous books is IDed as the Sheriff, Rob. Because of this, when Chris goes to Rob with what Daisy saw, Rob shuts it down. Rob also tries to use his position to make Daisy seem delusional and like she's just trying to seek attention by making reports that aren't true. He even makes it difficult for her to get help by having the police dispatch send any calls from her directly to him instead of responding directly. I think having the bad guy be a person in power really made the story more gripping and a bit more stressful because everyone trusts him. Daisy gets the idea that Rob doesn't like her and she's unsure about him but even then, she doesn't even begin to suspect how bad he is! I was constantly wondering what Rob (and his accomplice) had planned for Daisy and it made it difficult to put down the book. When I went to sleep, I dreamed about the story and woke up thinking about it and anxious to start reading it again to see what would happen next.
While Daisy is dealing with the repercussions of seeing what she shouldn't have seen, Chris actually brings Lou, Rory and Ellie (and their significant others) into things and they all become friends with Daisy. Daisy gets pulled into the murder-solving club that Lou and Callum started when Willard Grey was murdered and they start putting together pieces of who could be responsible for the killings and the arsons taking place around their tiny town. Meanwhile, Rob and his accomplice go about finding ways to reduce the danger Daisy poses to them, which gives Chris and Daisy a lot of problems to get through. Thankfully, even with everything that is going on, Daisy and Chris finally make their connection and start the relationship they've both been wanting for a while. After some major drama and danger, the bad guys are caught (finally) and Daisy and Chris get their well deserved HEA together.
I really enjoyed this story a lot...it was very gripping. I really liked Daisy and liked how she handled her situation and all. Chris was a really good hero and I was happy that he finally got a clue and went after Daisy. This was a great story and wrapped up the overlying series storyline very well. I really had a hard time putting it down and would definitely recommend it (but it might be a bit confusing if you haven't read the previous books in the series first). :D
* note - I listened to the audio version of this story and the narrator did a very good job.
December 14, 2023
3.5 ⭐️
I’m sad to see this series go! I really liked all the characters and couples.
My complaints are the same as the other books where I just didn’t feel like I knew all that much about the main characters. Chris was nice and good to Daisy, but I wanted to know more about him. Did he have family? Where was he from? Etc. I’m also curious if he dated in the time he knew Daisy, but I do like that this series doesn’t mention OW.
I liked Daisy and appreciated that her struggles to leave her house were at a realistic pace. I wished for her that it was sooner than 8 years! Also I would’ve liked a little more info or maybe more emotional scenes with her Dad.
I loved that all the heroines were friends in this book!
Overall, I would like a bit more history and would kill for the MMC’s POV, but I still liked the action and slow burn of this series!
I’m sad to see this series go! I really liked all the characters and couples.
My complaints are the same as the other books where I just didn’t feel like I knew all that much about the main characters. Chris was nice and good to Daisy, but I wanted to know more about him. Did he have family? Where was he from? Etc. I’m also curious if he dated in the time he knew Daisy, but I do like that this series doesn’t mention OW.
I liked Daisy and appreciated that her struggles to leave her house were at a realistic pace. I wished for her that it was sooner than 8 years! Also I would’ve liked a little more info or maybe more emotional scenes with her Dad.
I loved that all the heroines were friends in this book!
Overall, I would like a bit more history and would kill for the MMC’s POV, but I still liked the action and slow burn of this series!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 26, 2016
And it all came down to this! In the last installment, the very last lines reveals 'the who' of the story. It was shocking and devastating for me. I needed 'why' so badly. And beyond that, the truth also revealed that no one, absolutely no one is safe. Like the others in this series, I loved the couple, their situation, and the variation of slow burn romance, friendships, and nail-biting intrigued. This was it, for all the marbles, and the author brought it all home fantastically.
Yes, this is book four and the grand finale of the series that absolutely must be read in order. I will do my level best not to leak any spoilage and as a result, I might be vague with the summary. Just trust there is absolutely more going on than what I focus on- but what you get will be plenty to hook you in. Hopefully.
The story opens with things around town settling a little into baited breath waiting after the events of Ellie Price getting shot, Baxter Price disappearing yet again, the Meth dealing King brothers neutralized, and a killer still on the loose. Sheriff's Deputy, Chris Jennings, along with the rest of the Search & Rescue squad are all working from their own angles to find the solution.
But when not on duty, Chris has been visiting severely agoraphobic shut-in, Daisy Little, his long-time friend. Her dad and Chris are the only people she sees from outside the house. Chris comes to work hard as her self-defense trainer and seems to want to ignore her attraction and just be friends.
For eight years, since the violent death of her mother, Daisy has stayed locked inside her home. Double entry doors, metal window coverings on the ground floor, and the internet keep even a whiff of air from getting in. The sight of the outdoors without the protection of her upstairs windows puts her unconscious from an anxiety attack. And like Alfred Hitchcock's famous' Rear Window, Daisy watches her neighbors at night through her bedroom window which is why she sees a Sheriff's vehicle parked across the street at three in the morning and a dark figure lugging a tarp-wrapped object over his shoulder to the back and leave. It looked very much like a body and that boot that fell out and got tossed in with the tarp bundle leaves her heart pounding.
A call to Chris also brings his skeptical boss the sheriff around. The sheriff takes her observations with a grain of salt convinced she's delusional and likes to make up things since she's locked away from the world. But Chris? He takes her seriously and calls in Lou, Callum and the rest of his posse to compare notes and see if this latest incident is part of the ongoing HDG investigation.
Slowly, the group works toward a solution, but each move has a counter-move by the person watching from the shadows and ready to kill again to protect the answers they seek. And now in the killer's crosshairs is the woman who notices so much from the windows of her home- a home that is fast becoming a death trap if she can't find the courage to leave it.
The author gave up the killer at the very end of the last book with a jangling cliffhanger. But this was the beginning because the motive was still hidden. This book is narrated by Daisy and the HDG killer and a few others, notably not the hero. It was exciting getting the story from both sides of the equation.
Now on a side note, I have to say that my heart broke a little when I learned who the killer was and that was true through this story. I was so conflicted over it, but I knew the killer had to be stopped.
So, this story, like the ones before it, took an aspect of Search & Rescue, but this time it was the police element with Chris' job as sheriff's deputy since he's the hero of this one. Chris has been present as a side character through the whole series and fell under some suspicion himself. But this was the first encounter with the heroine. I find it interesting that the author paired each S&R hero with a heroine of unique situation and background. Daisy is severely agoraphobic and it's due to an incident in her past. Chris is considerate and careful with her, but never once does he think she is less than brilliant. Daisy finds her new situation as witness to be the catalyst that sets her moving away from her past and willing to work toward treatment and full health. Chris encourages her by trying to get her dad to take an interest again after his wife's death and sending her Lou and the other women to befriend and support her. Daisy is no cringing weakling. She is shut in, but she works out in her home gym and learns self-defense from Chris.
I found it interesting that unlike the last few books, this hero doesn't get any point of view time though Chris is as easily understood as Daisy in many ways though he acts odd around her at times and I was curious what was the trouble. They make a good pairing and the slow burn that eventually got scorchy paired well with the build of the suspense, too.
The round-up at the end was brief and I was startled by the abrupt ending though thank goodness it was a true end without the series of cliffhangers I've gotten with the others.
So, this was abso-fab and I'm sad to say good-bye to the Search & Rescue folk though I had a great time with each book including this last one. Those who enjoy romantic suspense with a slow build plot and romance with quirky small mountain town characters should give these a go.
My thanks to Sourcebooks Casablanca for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
Yes, this is book four and the grand finale of the series that absolutely must be read in order. I will do my level best not to leak any spoilage and as a result, I might be vague with the summary. Just trust there is absolutely more going on than what I focus on- but what you get will be plenty to hook you in. Hopefully.
The story opens with things around town settling a little into baited breath waiting after the events of Ellie Price getting shot, Baxter Price disappearing yet again, the Meth dealing King brothers neutralized, and a killer still on the loose. Sheriff's Deputy, Chris Jennings, along with the rest of the Search & Rescue squad are all working from their own angles to find the solution.
But when not on duty, Chris has been visiting severely agoraphobic shut-in, Daisy Little, his long-time friend. Her dad and Chris are the only people she sees from outside the house. Chris comes to work hard as her self-defense trainer and seems to want to ignore her attraction and just be friends.
For eight years, since the violent death of her mother, Daisy has stayed locked inside her home. Double entry doors, metal window coverings on the ground floor, and the internet keep even a whiff of air from getting in. The sight of the outdoors without the protection of her upstairs windows puts her unconscious from an anxiety attack. And like Alfred Hitchcock's famous' Rear Window, Daisy watches her neighbors at night through her bedroom window which is why she sees a Sheriff's vehicle parked across the street at three in the morning and a dark figure lugging a tarp-wrapped object over his shoulder to the back and leave. It looked very much like a body and that boot that fell out and got tossed in with the tarp bundle leaves her heart pounding.
A call to Chris also brings his skeptical boss the sheriff around. The sheriff takes her observations with a grain of salt convinced she's delusional and likes to make up things since she's locked away from the world. But Chris? He takes her seriously and calls in Lou, Callum and the rest of his posse to compare notes and see if this latest incident is part of the ongoing HDG investigation.
Slowly, the group works toward a solution, but each move has a counter-move by the person watching from the shadows and ready to kill again to protect the answers they seek. And now in the killer's crosshairs is the woman who notices so much from the windows of her home- a home that is fast becoming a death trap if she can't find the courage to leave it.
The author gave up the killer at the very end of the last book with a jangling cliffhanger. But this was the beginning because the motive was still hidden. This book is narrated by Daisy and the HDG killer and a few others, notably not the hero. It was exciting getting the story from both sides of the equation.
Now on a side note, I have to say that my heart broke a little when I learned who the killer was and that was true through this story. I was so conflicted over it, but I knew the killer had to be stopped.
So, this story, like the ones before it, took an aspect of Search & Rescue, but this time it was the police element with Chris' job as sheriff's deputy since he's the hero of this one. Chris has been present as a side character through the whole series and fell under some suspicion himself. But this was the first encounter with the heroine. I find it interesting that the author paired each S&R hero with a heroine of unique situation and background. Daisy is severely agoraphobic and it's due to an incident in her past. Chris is considerate and careful with her, but never once does he think she is less than brilliant. Daisy finds her new situation as witness to be the catalyst that sets her moving away from her past and willing to work toward treatment and full health. Chris encourages her by trying to get her dad to take an interest again after his wife's death and sending her Lou and the other women to befriend and support her. Daisy is no cringing weakling. She is shut in, but she works out in her home gym and learns self-defense from Chris.
I found it interesting that unlike the last few books, this hero doesn't get any point of view time though Chris is as easily understood as Daisy in many ways though he acts odd around her at times and I was curious what was the trouble. They make a good pairing and the slow burn that eventually got scorchy paired well with the build of the suspense, too.
The round-up at the end was brief and I was startled by the abrupt ending though thank goodness it was a true end without the series of cliffhangers I've gotten with the others.
So, this was abso-fab and I'm sad to say good-bye to the Search & Rescue folk though I had a great time with each book including this last one. Those who enjoy romantic suspense with a slow build plot and romance with quirky small mountain town characters should give these a go.
My thanks to Sourcebooks Casablanca for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
October 17, 2025
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 7, 2016
4.5 Stars
I don't about you, but for me the end of Gone Too Deep was like walking face first into a brick wall with the way it ended and waiting for this book was torture of the purest form. However, it was worth the wait and in my opinion, it is the best of the series and a high note on which to end it. It gave us all the answers we have been waiting for, but not without mind-twisting suspense and intrigue. A word of caution though: it's a little darker than the others but the easy and slow buildup of romance between the main characters and the cameos of the previous couples provide the lightness needed to balance it out.
Daisy Little has been stuck in her house since she lost her mom and as a result became agoraphobic with a bit of insomnia thrown in, which is why during one of her nightly bouts of insomnia she witnesses what could be a crime. Already considered a weirdo, it's hard to see how she could be a credible witness, but her friend Deputy Chris Jennings does.
Chris has never believed that he could have a chance at Daisy's heart and so resolved that friendship would be enough but with her marooned in her house and in the cross-hairs of a killer, he's not going rest easy until the danger to her is past.
I really like that Ms. Ruggle went for unconventional with her heroine in this book even though it wouldn't have been my first choice and even more, I like that Daisy was no shrinking violet. She was tough, smart, likable, warm and mostly normal, except for the not leaving the house part. Chris was sweet and very mellow, even in the background for part of the book as Daisy hogged the spotlight, but it didn't make him any less likable. I love that he trusted Daisy completely and didn't have any doubts that she was telling the truth.
Even though the bad guy was revealed in the previous book, I so badly wanted to be convinced that it was some kind a mistake and kept waiting for that until I had to concede that he really was bad. Kind of creepy though for the reader to see the bad guy clothed as a white knight, while scheming to get rid of witnesses to his crime.
Ms. Ruggle has done a really great job with this series and I love that every installment gave us unique characters while staying true to the central theme. If you are new to the series, I highly recommend starting from the beginning and checking your expectations at the door, and you won't regret it.
Disclaimer: I received this book for free from the Publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
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I don't about you, but for me the end of Gone Too Deep was like walking face first into a brick wall with the way it ended and waiting for this book was torture of the purest form. However, it was worth the wait and in my opinion, it is the best of the series and a high note on which to end it. It gave us all the answers we have been waiting for, but not without mind-twisting suspense and intrigue. A word of caution though: it's a little darker than the others but the easy and slow buildup of romance between the main characters and the cameos of the previous couples provide the lightness needed to balance it out.
Daisy Little has been stuck in her house since she lost her mom and as a result became agoraphobic with a bit of insomnia thrown in, which is why during one of her nightly bouts of insomnia she witnesses what could be a crime. Already considered a weirdo, it's hard to see how she could be a credible witness, but her friend Deputy Chris Jennings does.
Chris has never believed that he could have a chance at Daisy's heart and so resolved that friendship would be enough but with her marooned in her house and in the cross-hairs of a killer, he's not going rest easy until the danger to her is past.
I really like that Ms. Ruggle went for unconventional with her heroine in this book even though it wouldn't have been my first choice and even more, I like that Daisy was no shrinking violet. She was tough, smart, likable, warm and mostly normal, except for the not leaving the house part. Chris was sweet and very mellow, even in the background for part of the book as Daisy hogged the spotlight, but it didn't make him any less likable. I love that he trusted Daisy completely and didn't have any doubts that she was telling the truth.
Even though the bad guy was revealed in the previous book, I so badly wanted to be convinced that it was some kind a mistake and kept waiting for that until I had to concede that he really was bad. Kind of creepy though for the reader to see the bad guy clothed as a white knight, while scheming to get rid of witnesses to his crime.
Ms. Ruggle has done a really great job with this series and I love that every installment gave us unique characters while staying true to the central theme. If you are new to the series, I highly recommend starting from the beginning and checking your expectations at the door, and you won't regret it.
Disclaimer: I received this book for free from the Publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Want more? Subscribe to my Newsletter on The Sassy Bookster.
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April 13, 2017
Review written: October 24, 2016
Star Rating: ★★★☆☆
Heat Rating: ☀☀☼☼☼
An Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this book was received free via Netgalley for an honest review.
And so we come to the exciting conclusion of the Search & Rescue series. Daisy, who watches the world from her bedroom window, has seen something not quite right. When she reports it to the local police, she doesn't just call it in. What's the use of that? Daisy has been a shut-in since witnessing her mother's murder when she was just 16 and people (especially the police) don't tend to take her seriously. At least, most of them don't. Sexy Chris doesn't think she is crazy. He races to her every time she needs help. So it's Chris she tells.
For Daisy, telling Chris about what she has seen opens up a sudden new and frightening world. Within days she is playing hostess to Lou, Rory, Ellie, and their men as they try to unravel the mystery of the arsons and murders. With a couple of well-placed suggestions, Lou and the girls get Daisy to consider life outside of her house.
As houses go, Daisy's in about on par with the houses in the other books. I don't think there is a house left that isn't triple locked or doesn't have some extraordinary security measures. But security can keep you in just as much as it can keep others out. And strange things start happening in Daisy's house, strange and dangerous things.
As if that isn't enough, Daisy and Chris have a shared history of pain. Chris was the first officer on scene at her mother's murder. And their mutual interest in each other has been held at bay by Daisy's age and fear and Chris's guilt. Now that everything's on the line though, they will each make whatever changes are necessary for a life together.
I love Chris and Daisy and some of the scenes are just too awesome. They really are just better together. Watching Lou and company watch Daisy and Chris is also a lot of fun.
But the saddest part of this book is the arsonist and murderer. In the end, that is just a tragedy.
Ruggle neatly wraps up the mystery and hooks up all her main characters from the series appropriately. Chris can't compete with George from Gone Too Deep, but I don't think he ever stood a chance at that. It was a sad if satisfying conclusion to the series. Despite my ups and downs over the course of the books, I know I'll be looking for more of Ruggle's books.
This review is ©October 2016 by Monique N. and has been posted to Netgalley.
Star Rating: ★★★☆☆
Heat Rating: ☀☀☼☼☼
An Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this book was received free via Netgalley for an honest review.
And so we come to the exciting conclusion of the Search & Rescue series. Daisy, who watches the world from her bedroom window, has seen something not quite right. When she reports it to the local police, she doesn't just call it in. What's the use of that? Daisy has been a shut-in since witnessing her mother's murder when she was just 16 and people (especially the police) don't tend to take her seriously. At least, most of them don't. Sexy Chris doesn't think she is crazy. He races to her every time she needs help. So it's Chris she tells.
For Daisy, telling Chris about what she has seen opens up a sudden new and frightening world. Within days she is playing hostess to Lou, Rory, Ellie, and their men as they try to unravel the mystery of the arsons and murders. With a couple of well-placed suggestions, Lou and the girls get Daisy to consider life outside of her house.
As houses go, Daisy's in about on par with the houses in the other books. I don't think there is a house left that isn't triple locked or doesn't have some extraordinary security measures. But security can keep you in just as much as it can keep others out. And strange things start happening in Daisy's house, strange and dangerous things.
As if that isn't enough, Daisy and Chris have a shared history of pain. Chris was the first officer on scene at her mother's murder. And their mutual interest in each other has been held at bay by Daisy's age and fear and Chris's guilt. Now that everything's on the line though, they will each make whatever changes are necessary for a life together.
I love Chris and Daisy and some of the scenes are just too awesome. They really are just better together. Watching Lou and company watch Daisy and Chris is also a lot of fun.
But the saddest part of this book is the arsonist and murderer. In the end, that is just a tragedy.
Ruggle neatly wraps up the mystery and hooks up all her main characters from the series appropriately. Chris can't compete with George from Gone Too Deep, but I don't think he ever stood a chance at that. It was a sad if satisfying conclusion to the series. Despite my ups and downs over the course of the books, I know I'll be looking for more of Ruggle's books.
This review is ©October 2016 by Monique N. and has been posted to Netgalley.
April 20, 2018
It took me a year to finish reading this book because I wasn't thrilled by the premise. I'm glad I finally did, but this isn't Ms. Ruggle's best effort.
Daisy has been trapped in her house ever since her mother was shot. Daisy is deeply agoraphobic and never leaves her home. She passes the time by working out, looking out her bedroom window, and selling things her father picks up on eBay. She sleeps very little and one night she sees a figure carrying what looks like a body wrapped in a tarp over to a squad car. At one point a boot falls out and the figure picks it up and puts it in the squad. Daisy tries to record it with her phone, but it's too dark and the picture is very difficult to make out.
She tells her long time friend, Chris, about it when he visits. Chris is a cop and they have been friends forever. He is her link to the outside world. Her father theoretically lives with her, but he makes sure he's never home. Chris tells his boss, the sheriff, about what Daisy saw, but surprisingly the sheriff shuts him down.
Meanwhile, Daisy's world is expanding. Through Chris she meets the couples from the other books. They meet in her home gym and Chris trains them. As the women become more friendly, they start getting together and working on the mystery the series is about.
I liked Daisy and Ms. Ruggle made an effort to show Daisy taking baby steps to overcome her disability, which was nice. Chris is the epitome of a nice guy, which is just my type. Lou appeared a few times in this book and was, as always, very funny.
Ms. Ruggle's writing is very good, particularly her dialog. Her characters ask sensible questions and don't do dumb things.
Daisy has been trapped in her house ever since her mother was shot. Daisy is deeply agoraphobic and never leaves her home. She passes the time by working out, looking out her bedroom window, and selling things her father picks up on eBay. She sleeps very little and one night she sees a figure carrying what looks like a body wrapped in a tarp over to a squad car. At one point a boot falls out and the figure picks it up and puts it in the squad. Daisy tries to record it with her phone, but it's too dark and the picture is very difficult to make out.
She tells her long time friend, Chris, about it when he visits. Chris is a cop and they have been friends forever. He is her link to the outside world. Her father theoretically lives with her, but he makes sure he's never home. Chris tells his boss, the sheriff, about what Daisy saw, but surprisingly the sheriff shuts him down.
Meanwhile, Daisy's world is expanding. Through Chris she meets the couples from the other books. They meet in her home gym and Chris trains them. As the women become more friendly, they start getting together and working on the mystery the series is about.
I liked Daisy and Ms. Ruggle made an effort to show Daisy taking baby steps to overcome her disability, which was nice. Chris is the epitome of a nice guy, which is just my type. Lou appeared a few times in this book and was, as always, very funny.
Ms. Ruggle's writing is very good, particularly her dialog. Her characters ask sensible questions and don't do dumb things.
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