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Delos #1
Nowhere to Hide
Lia Cassidy has left the Army scarred physically and emotionally after a vicious attack by two fellow soldiers. Seeking a new start, she finds a rewarding job working with needy children at the Delos Charity School in Costa Rica. But her life turns upside down again when local drug lord, La Arana, burns down the school and pursues Lia as a witness. Terrified and on the run, she discovers there is only one man she can trust-Cav Jordan, the ex-SEAL Delos sends to protect her. Cav Jordan is strong, honorable, and gorgeous . . . and intrigued by Lia. He knows she has suffered pain in her past, and he is determined to break through her barriers and earn her trust. But as Cav slowly chips away at the walls Lia has built, ghosts from her past threaten to destroy their fragile relationship.
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First published September 1, 2015
63 people are currently reading
860 people want to read
About the author
Lindsay McKenna
360 books2,503 followersI've lived six lives in one and it all shows up in the books I write, one way or another.
I was always a risk taker and broke mustangs at thirteen years old in Oregon. I learn to break them with love, not threat or pain.
At 17 years old, I picked night-crawlers (worms) out in our Oregon orchards from 9pm to midnight, every night. I earned enough money to buy my school clothes and book. I also plunked down $600 to a flight company at the Medford, Oregon airport and asked them to teach me...a girl...to fly. I soloed in 12 hours, which is average. From that time until I left for the US Navy at 18, I had accrued 39 hours of flight time in my Cessna 150 single engine airplane.
I was in the US military and was an AG3 (weather forecaster). There was no airplane club, so I couldn't fly when I was in the Navy. But I could look at the clouds in the sky ;-).
Later, I flew in a B-52 bomber for a day and night mission (18 hours total), a T-38 Talon jet, USAF, where I was riding in a "chase plane" on a test flight in a Dragonfly jet.
I was one of the first AFLA (American Fencing League of America) women fencers to fence with epee and sabre. These weapons were closed to women because they were too 'heavy' for a female to handle. I said baloney and fought the males and won half my bouts. I was part of a surge of women fencers on the East Coast in the 1970's to push for equality in the sport. Together, we changed the sport and changed the mind of the men. Today? In the Olympics? Women now fence in foil, epee and sabre, thanks to what we did as a vanguard showing the world it could be done.
I then became a volunteer firefighter when I was a civilian once more, the first woman in an all - male fire department in West Point, Ohio for three years. I became a local expert not only in firefighting, driving the engine and tanker trunks, but also had training in hazardous material (Reynoldsburg Fire Academy, Columbus, OH).
My books always reflect what I experienced. If you like edgy, gritty, deeply and emotionally intense love stories with sympathetic heroes and heroines, check out my newest series that will be available mid-Oct. 2015, and it incorporates much of what I have lived.
I was always a risk taker and broke mustangs at thirteen years old in Oregon. I learn to break them with love, not threat or pain.
At 17 years old, I picked night-crawlers (worms) out in our Oregon orchards from 9pm to midnight, every night. I earned enough money to buy my school clothes and book. I also plunked down $600 to a flight company at the Medford, Oregon airport and asked them to teach me...a girl...to fly. I soloed in 12 hours, which is average. From that time until I left for the US Navy at 18, I had accrued 39 hours of flight time in my Cessna 150 single engine airplane.
I was in the US military and was an AG3 (weather forecaster). There was no airplane club, so I couldn't fly when I was in the Navy. But I could look at the clouds in the sky ;-).
Later, I flew in a B-52 bomber for a day and night mission (18 hours total), a T-38 Talon jet, USAF, where I was riding in a "chase plane" on a test flight in a Dragonfly jet.
I was one of the first AFLA (American Fencing League of America) women fencers to fence with epee and sabre. These weapons were closed to women because they were too 'heavy' for a female to handle. I said baloney and fought the males and won half my bouts. I was part of a surge of women fencers on the East Coast in the 1970's to push for equality in the sport. Together, we changed the sport and changed the mind of the men. Today? In the Olympics? Women now fence in foil, epee and sabre, thanks to what we did as a vanguard showing the world it could be done.
I then became a volunteer firefighter when I was a civilian once more, the first woman in an all - male fire department in West Point, Ohio for three years. I became a local expert not only in firefighting, driving the engine and tanker trunks, but also had training in hazardous material (Reynoldsburg Fire Academy, Columbus, OH).
My books always reflect what I experienced. If you like edgy, gritty, deeply and emotionally intense love stories with sympathetic heroes and heroines, check out my newest series that will be available mid-Oct. 2015, and it incorporates much of what I have lived.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
July 30, 2016
Good story of healing, but not really suspenseful.
October 1, 2015
Nowhere to Hide by Lindsay McKenna is a strong start to the Delos series.
In Nowhere to Hide, Lia and Cav both hurt from events in their past, and these events have shaped how their lives are today. Lia is scarred inside and out, and these scars rule her life. A life that is now in danger in Costa Rica. Cav is former SEAL working security whose mission right now is to keep Lia safe. An unexpected attraction is almost immediate, a need to get to know each other when they meet. Cav is very intrigued by Lia, and Lia finds herself beginning to trust him and feel comfort from him. Mixing business and pleasure can be difficult, but somehow Lia and Cav do just that. A romance slowly and steadily grows, just as the suspense and intrigue of the danger Lia is in grows. Will Lia feel safe enough to trust herself and Cav? Can Cav keep Lia safe so that they can leave the past where it belongs and take control of their future?
I enjoyed getting to know Lia and Cav. I liked these two characters. They are both strong, brave and caring. Their maturity and a lack of any angst made them really likable and believable. It was easy to feel for and with them as Lindsay wrote with smooth, easy to read flow. I liked watching their relationship grow, the bumps they need to maneuver over. The pace and the build up of trust between these two was believable. Cav is a very admirable hero! Patient, skilled, and very interested in Lia.
I liked that there are really two strong plots woven well together...Lia and Cav's relationship, and the heart stopping danger Lia is facing. In Nowhere to Hide, Lindsay writes well of dangers that are very real, issues that do happen. Her knowledge and insight made for a powerful plot as Lia and Cav both have obstacles to over come.
I'd recommend Nowhere to Hide to any romantic suspense reader.
In Nowhere to Hide, Lia and Cav both hurt from events in their past, and these events have shaped how their lives are today. Lia is scarred inside and out, and these scars rule her life. A life that is now in danger in Costa Rica. Cav is former SEAL working security whose mission right now is to keep Lia safe. An unexpected attraction is almost immediate, a need to get to know each other when they meet. Cav is very intrigued by Lia, and Lia finds herself beginning to trust him and feel comfort from him. Mixing business and pleasure can be difficult, but somehow Lia and Cav do just that. A romance slowly and steadily grows, just as the suspense and intrigue of the danger Lia is in grows. Will Lia feel safe enough to trust herself and Cav? Can Cav keep Lia safe so that they can leave the past where it belongs and take control of their future?
I enjoyed getting to know Lia and Cav. I liked these two characters. They are both strong, brave and caring. Their maturity and a lack of any angst made them really likable and believable. It was easy to feel for and with them as Lindsay wrote with smooth, easy to read flow. I liked watching their relationship grow, the bumps they need to maneuver over. The pace and the build up of trust between these two was believable. Cav is a very admirable hero! Patient, skilled, and very interested in Lia.
I liked that there are really two strong plots woven well together...Lia and Cav's relationship, and the heart stopping danger Lia is facing. In Nowhere to Hide, Lindsay writes well of dangers that are very real, issues that do happen. Her knowledge and insight made for a powerful plot as Lia and Cav both have obstacles to over come.
I'd recommend Nowhere to Hide to any romantic suspense reader.
October 15, 2015
ARC REVIEW
This is a nice subtle book; it's kinda like two book, the first half is the suspense and the second half the romance. The characters not wanting to get involved in a relationship while on the job is understandable and even commendable especially because of Lia's past. The storyline was good, I love Delos and the idea behind it.
Lia was in the Army until she was physically attacked and almost raped by two men she worked with. Luck for her her Dad made sure she could defend herself and as a child learned Krav Maga; because she fought back they cut her multiple times she almost bleed out if she hadn't ran out in the middle of the street and almost got ran over by a medic. Years later Lia is still dealing with the trauma she suffers from nightmares and her scars are just visible reminders. She sees her scars as a defect, she hasn't been able to have a physical relationship for fear the her scars will scar guys away, it has happened before.
Cav Jordan is a good man but he suffers from demons of his own, he was a Navy SEAL but left when he was caught in firefight and was the lone survivor. Cav had started working in the private sector and drinking himself into oblivion. Until he gets assigned a job to be a bodyguard for a young woman who manages one of the Delos charity school in Costa Rica. It was love at first sight for Cav he could tell Lia has been through hell but she is still standing tall and working hard to get things running again. But the Drug Lord who ruthlessly murdered the two teachers at the school want Lia for himself and it's up to Cav to protect her.
Cav and Lia are slow to their relationship but with Lia's past Cav understands and helps her get past her insecurities and proves the Cav loves her just as she is.
This is a nice subtle book; it's kinda like two book, the first half is the suspense and the second half the romance. The characters not wanting to get involved in a relationship while on the job is understandable and even commendable especially because of Lia's past. The storyline was good, I love Delos and the idea behind it.
Lia was in the Army until she was physically attacked and almost raped by two men she worked with. Luck for her her Dad made sure she could defend herself and as a child learned Krav Maga; because she fought back they cut her multiple times she almost bleed out if she hadn't ran out in the middle of the street and almost got ran over by a medic. Years later Lia is still dealing with the trauma she suffers from nightmares and her scars are just visible reminders. She sees her scars as a defect, she hasn't been able to have a physical relationship for fear the her scars will scar guys away, it has happened before.
Cav Jordan is a good man but he suffers from demons of his own, he was a Navy SEAL but left when he was caught in firefight and was the lone survivor. Cav had started working in the private sector and drinking himself into oblivion. Until he gets assigned a job to be a bodyguard for a young woman who manages one of the Delos charity school in Costa Rica. It was love at first sight for Cav he could tell Lia has been through hell but she is still standing tall and working hard to get things running again. But the Drug Lord who ruthlessly murdered the two teachers at the school want Lia for himself and it's up to Cav to protect her.
Cav and Lia are slow to their relationship but with Lia's past Cav understands and helps her get past her insecurities and proves the Cav loves her just as she is.
November 3, 2015
* I received this book for free from Tasty Book Tours in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review, which was originally posted on book blog Will Read for Feels.
I want to start this review by saying that I started reading this novel (and likely this series) while in the wrong head space. The descriptions and preliminary comments I read about it gave the impression that this book was heavy on the action and suspense. However, by the first couple of chapters, I realized that Nowhere to Hide was more of a contemporary romance that happened to have a few some crime and suspense elements than a romantic suspense. So I want to start out by saying that this would be a good read for fans of NA and general contemporary romance readers who want something with a bit more edge and those action-induced thrills than someone who is an adventure or suspense junkie. I’ll get into this more later on.
Nowhere to Hide is the first novel in the all-new Delos series, which revolves around a multicultural family with strong ties to the military. The family sponsors charities all over the globe; many of these in regions that are hot spots for trouble, and increasing risk factors have them setting up a sister company that provides excellent security. The book includes an author’s note providing a brief backgrounder on what’s going on, and I strongly suggest taking the time to read it, even if you normally skip through to the first chapter of most books you read.
I thought the overall concept for the series was a good one; I liked that the world McKenna built was entirely believable as happening here and now. That the author was in the military and had consulted with people in the industry was quite clear, thanks to the liberal use of military terminology (although I sometimes found myself wishing these had been explained), which added an extra level of authenticity.
Going into this specific book, however, I was immediately intrigued by both the main characters. Security consultant and former navy SEAL Cav Jordan has that whole ex-military hotness going for him, plus he’s still in the game, so you know he stays sharp and fit. But while he seems battle-hardened, he’s also quite insightful and sensitive—basically, he’s in touch with his inner marshmallow.
On the other hand, Lia Cassidy is a woman on a mission; she’s very dedicated to the cause of providing education for the kids in the poor Costa Rica town she’s been assigned to. Apart from her current crusader status, she endured terrible trauma in the past, trauma that has left her scarred physically and emotionally. Rather than growing embittered, though, she chooses optimism and hope.
Put them together and the combination tugs at your heart strings. Cav gives Lia the space and caring she needs to heal, but also pushes her out of her comfort zone. Meanwhile, Lia gives Cav a cause to crusade for and a person who quickly comes to matter a heck of a lot more to him than just a job. So when a Costa Rican drug lord threatens their very lives, the struggle of getting past the danger doesn’t just bring them closer together; it pushes them to push aside everything they’ve thrown in their own way and focus on what matters.
Once I adjusted my approach to the novel (which is to say, I stopped expecting this to turn into a thriller), I found that my biggest issue with this novel is that much of the story resides in the characters’ head spaces and dialogue, and some of the action is more remembered than carried out during the course of a scene. This can make the pacing and progression of the story a bit slow.
For example, while there was lots of back story revealed in the first part of the novel, by the first 25 percent of the book the following has happened: the two characters meet, they talk and start to get to know each other, and Lia falls asleep. Don’t get me wrong; this is an oversimplification because we learn a lot about everything Lia has already survived and the danger she now faces and McKenna does drive in their instant mutual attraction, despite any and all reservations they might otherwise have had with other people. However, if you really enjoy tracking characters’ feelings as sparks deepen into love, this might be the right sort of novel for you.
Better yet, if you’re a series addict, the next novels in the Delos series are coming hard and fast in the coming months, so you won’t have to wait before reading the next installation and the next love story in this world.
Did I love this book? Not quite, but I did enjoy it once I realized it was more romantic drama than suspense thriller—it’s a solid love story. I am certainly interested in seeing what happens in the next books. And the good news is, I won’t have to wait too long to do it. The next three books in this series are launching about a month apart, so book 2, Tangled Pursuit, is coming out in November!
I want to start this review by saying that I started reading this novel (and likely this series) while in the wrong head space. The descriptions and preliminary comments I read about it gave the impression that this book was heavy on the action and suspense. However, by the first couple of chapters, I realized that Nowhere to Hide was more of a contemporary romance that happened to have a few some crime and suspense elements than a romantic suspense. So I want to start out by saying that this would be a good read for fans of NA and general contemporary romance readers who want something with a bit more edge and those action-induced thrills than someone who is an adventure or suspense junkie. I’ll get into this more later on.
Nowhere to Hide is the first novel in the all-new Delos series, which revolves around a multicultural family with strong ties to the military. The family sponsors charities all over the globe; many of these in regions that are hot spots for trouble, and increasing risk factors have them setting up a sister company that provides excellent security. The book includes an author’s note providing a brief backgrounder on what’s going on, and I strongly suggest taking the time to read it, even if you normally skip through to the first chapter of most books you read.
I thought the overall concept for the series was a good one; I liked that the world McKenna built was entirely believable as happening here and now. That the author was in the military and had consulted with people in the industry was quite clear, thanks to the liberal use of military terminology (although I sometimes found myself wishing these had been explained), which added an extra level of authenticity.
Going into this specific book, however, I was immediately intrigued by both the main characters. Security consultant and former navy SEAL Cav Jordan has that whole ex-military hotness going for him, plus he’s still in the game, so you know he stays sharp and fit. But while he seems battle-hardened, he’s also quite insightful and sensitive—basically, he’s in touch with his inner marshmallow.
On the other hand, Lia Cassidy is a woman on a mission; she’s very dedicated to the cause of providing education for the kids in the poor Costa Rica town she’s been assigned to. Apart from her current crusader status, she endured terrible trauma in the past, trauma that has left her scarred physically and emotionally. Rather than growing embittered, though, she chooses optimism and hope.
Put them together and the combination tugs at your heart strings. Cav gives Lia the space and caring she needs to heal, but also pushes her out of her comfort zone. Meanwhile, Lia gives Cav a cause to crusade for and a person who quickly comes to matter a heck of a lot more to him than just a job. So when a Costa Rican drug lord threatens their very lives, the struggle of getting past the danger doesn’t just bring them closer together; it pushes them to push aside everything they’ve thrown in their own way and focus on what matters.
Once I adjusted my approach to the novel (which is to say, I stopped expecting this to turn into a thriller), I found that my biggest issue with this novel is that much of the story resides in the characters’ head spaces and dialogue, and some of the action is more remembered than carried out during the course of a scene. This can make the pacing and progression of the story a bit slow.
For example, while there was lots of back story revealed in the first part of the novel, by the first 25 percent of the book the following has happened: the two characters meet, they talk and start to get to know each other, and Lia falls asleep. Don’t get me wrong; this is an oversimplification because we learn a lot about everything Lia has already survived and the danger she now faces and McKenna does drive in their instant mutual attraction, despite any and all reservations they might otherwise have had with other people. However, if you really enjoy tracking characters’ feelings as sparks deepen into love, this might be the right sort of novel for you.
Better yet, if you’re a series addict, the next novels in the Delos series are coming hard and fast in the coming months, so you won’t have to wait before reading the next installation and the next love story in this world.
Did I love this book? Not quite, but I did enjoy it once I realized it was more romantic drama than suspense thriller—it’s a solid love story. I am certainly interested in seeing what happens in the next books. And the good news is, I won’t have to wait too long to do it. The next three books in this series are launching about a month apart, so book 2, Tangled Pursuit, is coming out in November!
October 8, 2015
To read this review and others like it check out my site at www.homelovebooks.com
I have been a big fan of romantic suspense for a while now, I like the life or death of it all, and personally I think heightened emotional situations can make for great scenarios for two people to find common ground and with that love. I also happen to really enjoy romances with a military feel to them, frankly because I was an army wife for so long, it's familiar territory for me. This book for me was kind of one of those middle ground books, had good points and bad points equally.
So I want to kind of go over what I didn't like about the book first. There were a lot of little details that bugged me, but the one that sticks out the most was that Lia told Cav she was a sergeant when she got out of the army and she was an E-4, which is not the correct army rank. There were a lot of little things like that. Also the characters seemed to use exclamation points way more then I think any normal people talk. Some of the characters would repeat very large speeches to the same characters on more then one occasion (Dalaria to Lia) as if the first conversation never happened. There were time jumps that happened from one paragraph to the next, which really threw off the rhythm of the book for me. Also some of the sexy times, the language was kind of stiff, not sexy to me. But all of these things I didn't like are mostly personal preference (like if you don't know much about the army it might not bug you that the ranks were wrong), so other people might not have the same issues I had. Also, the suspense part of the novel was over way before I was expecting it to and then it went to much different pace and style of book, and personally I think the book would have benefited from having the suspense element drag out a lot longer then it did.
So for the things that I did like about the book. Lia. I liked that she was a strong woman. She went through a horrible ordeal when she was in the army, and I was really impressed that after the charity she worked for was attacked, that she didn't want to leave, that she wanted to rebuild and help continue to educate the underprivileged in the community that she has grown to love. I also liked that she was smart about the situation, I hate in books where the heroine doesn't listen to the bodyguard, or doesn't know when to listen to her gut and not do something, in this book, Lia is smart and thankfully does not fall under the whole "TSTL" category. I liked that Cav was so patient with Lia, that he tried to give her enough space. He knew when to push and when to pull back even without having to be told. But he also wasn't one of those like super stoic silent type operators that so many of these military guys are portrayed as, I liked that he talked, and that he was a complex character with more than one side to him. He was just a good guy in general, and I really liked his backstory. I did think that Lia and Cav had a good working dynamic together, and they really did develop a bond, I wouldn't say that their chemistry was super hot, but they definitely had a connection that was believable.
If you like romantic suspense, or if you already know and like the author, Lindsay McKenna's work, then this might be a book you want to check out.
I have been a big fan of romantic suspense for a while now, I like the life or death of it all, and personally I think heightened emotional situations can make for great scenarios for two people to find common ground and with that love. I also happen to really enjoy romances with a military feel to them, frankly because I was an army wife for so long, it's familiar territory for me. This book for me was kind of one of those middle ground books, had good points and bad points equally.
So I want to kind of go over what I didn't like about the book first. There were a lot of little details that bugged me, but the one that sticks out the most was that Lia told Cav she was a sergeant when she got out of the army and she was an E-4, which is not the correct army rank. There were a lot of little things like that. Also the characters seemed to use exclamation points way more then I think any normal people talk. Some of the characters would repeat very large speeches to the same characters on more then one occasion (Dalaria to Lia) as if the first conversation never happened. There were time jumps that happened from one paragraph to the next, which really threw off the rhythm of the book for me. Also some of the sexy times, the language was kind of stiff, not sexy to me. But all of these things I didn't like are mostly personal preference (like if you don't know much about the army it might not bug you that the ranks were wrong), so other people might not have the same issues I had. Also, the suspense part of the novel was over way before I was expecting it to and then it went to much different pace and style of book, and personally I think the book would have benefited from having the suspense element drag out a lot longer then it did.
So for the things that I did like about the book. Lia. I liked that she was a strong woman. She went through a horrible ordeal when she was in the army, and I was really impressed that after the charity she worked for was attacked, that she didn't want to leave, that she wanted to rebuild and help continue to educate the underprivileged in the community that she has grown to love. I also liked that she was smart about the situation, I hate in books where the heroine doesn't listen to the bodyguard, or doesn't know when to listen to her gut and not do something, in this book, Lia is smart and thankfully does not fall under the whole "TSTL" category. I liked that Cav was so patient with Lia, that he tried to give her enough space. He knew when to push and when to pull back even without having to be told. But he also wasn't one of those like super stoic silent type operators that so many of these military guys are portrayed as, I liked that he talked, and that he was a complex character with more than one side to him. He was just a good guy in general, and I really liked his backstory. I did think that Lia and Cav had a good working dynamic together, and they really did develop a bond, I wouldn't say that their chemistry was super hot, but they definitely had a connection that was believable.
If you like romantic suspense, or if you already know and like the author, Lindsay McKenna's work, then this might be a book you want to check out.
October 7, 2015
Powerful New Delos Series!
Nowhere To Hide is Book 1 in the continuing saga of Lia Cassidy, that began with the Prequel, Last Chance. I am not sure this is always the case, but I appreciate when an author identifies a novella as a prequel.
Dilara and Robert Culver, with their humanitarian and diverse backgrounds, are the force behind 1,800 Delos Charities, scattered across the globe. Economically and militarily, their goal is to empower, shield and protect the dynamic individuals who comprise their workforce, who are as meaningful to them as their own family.
With Lia surviving the tragic circumstances in the jungles of Costa Rica, where her friends, two teachers working with her were murdered, it now becomes imperative that Lia move forward in her hard-won independence. With the Culver's unwavering love and support, they move mountains to place her in a position where she can feel safe and become productive once again.
Knowing that the dynamics in the world are changing drastically, Delos realizes they need to expand their corporate structure to encompass a special arm for Security. This broader realm becomes a balm to Lia's soul as the man assigned to guard and protect her, Cav Jordan, an ex-Seal, is offered a position within this new area.
This is a beautiful story about Lia Cassidy and Cav Jordan, two wounded souls, scarred and seared by painful pasts. Through Ms. McKenna's sensitive narrative, one is able to absorb the intense feelings of each and become part of them. Such an ability is a tremendous gift. There is violence, as part of the story, but it is not gratuitous violence. Because of their collective anguish, the beauty of their coming together is a slow journey. This is a very powerful build up and makes their developing relationship so much more captivating.
To my mind, reading a Lindsay McKenna book is substance in its purest form. I was asked to read this e-book by the author in return for an honest review.
Nowhere To Hide is Book 1 in the continuing saga of Lia Cassidy, that began with the Prequel, Last Chance. I am not sure this is always the case, but I appreciate when an author identifies a novella as a prequel.
Dilara and Robert Culver, with their humanitarian and diverse backgrounds, are the force behind 1,800 Delos Charities, scattered across the globe. Economically and militarily, their goal is to empower, shield and protect the dynamic individuals who comprise their workforce, who are as meaningful to them as their own family.
With Lia surviving the tragic circumstances in the jungles of Costa Rica, where her friends, two teachers working with her were murdered, it now becomes imperative that Lia move forward in her hard-won independence. With the Culver's unwavering love and support, they move mountains to place her in a position where she can feel safe and become productive once again.
Knowing that the dynamics in the world are changing drastically, Delos realizes they need to expand their corporate structure to encompass a special arm for Security. This broader realm becomes a balm to Lia's soul as the man assigned to guard and protect her, Cav Jordan, an ex-Seal, is offered a position within this new area.
This is a beautiful story about Lia Cassidy and Cav Jordan, two wounded souls, scarred and seared by painful pasts. Through Ms. McKenna's sensitive narrative, one is able to absorb the intense feelings of each and become part of them. Such an ability is a tremendous gift. There is violence, as part of the story, but it is not gratuitous violence. Because of their collective anguish, the beauty of their coming together is a slow journey. This is a very powerful build up and makes their developing relationship so much more captivating.
To my mind, reading a Lindsay McKenna book is substance in its purest form. I was asked to read this e-book by the author in return for an honest review.
October 7, 2015
NOWHERE TO HIDE is the first full book in Lindsay McKenna’s new and exciting DELOS Series. We were given a taste in the introductory prequel novella LAST CHANCE. For readers who have stuck with Ms McKenna and her highly popular Morgan Mercenaries characters, you can readily adapt to this new series and consider it a version that is relevant for the 21st century’s trials, challenges and situations. The times they are a changing and so did this.
DELOS is a global organization run by caring and competent General Robert Culver and his amazing wife Dilara. They consider their ‘employees’ to be a part of their ‘global family’. DELOS aims to bring a brighter future to and spread hope worldwide. It’s no wonder that the logo depicts a Rising Sun. This transforms the sense of despair to one of promise. To further accomplish this, the Artemis Security division is established. It supports and provides security for the current foundations: Safe House, Home School and Farming.
Lia was introduced to us in LAST CHANCE. She was attacked 5 years earlier while serving in the army and justifiably distrusts men. Cav, a former SEAL, is assigned as her Personal Security Detail (PSD) after her school and teachers in Costa Rica were destroyed. Lia was extremely hesitant but eventually agreed to accept protection since she was targeted for death by the drug lord, Dante Medina aka ‘La Arana – The Spider’. Cav carried his own baggage from growing up in a dysfunctional and abusive family. Their shared tragedies created a unique connection.
Through time and with much patience Lia and Cav support one another and develop a deep trust. They no longer need to hide their physical and emotional scars. Their hearts have ‘eyes’ and lead them out of the shadows into the light. Being able to open up and lean on one another, they now face a bright and happy life together that they have earned and deserve.
DELOS is a global organization run by caring and competent General Robert Culver and his amazing wife Dilara. They consider their ‘employees’ to be a part of their ‘global family’. DELOS aims to bring a brighter future to and spread hope worldwide. It’s no wonder that the logo depicts a Rising Sun. This transforms the sense of despair to one of promise. To further accomplish this, the Artemis Security division is established. It supports and provides security for the current foundations: Safe House, Home School and Farming.
Lia was introduced to us in LAST CHANCE. She was attacked 5 years earlier while serving in the army and justifiably distrusts men. Cav, a former SEAL, is assigned as her Personal Security Detail (PSD) after her school and teachers in Costa Rica were destroyed. Lia was extremely hesitant but eventually agreed to accept protection since she was targeted for death by the drug lord, Dante Medina aka ‘La Arana – The Spider’. Cav carried his own baggage from growing up in a dysfunctional and abusive family. Their shared tragedies created a unique connection.
Through time and with much patience Lia and Cav support one another and develop a deep trust. They no longer need to hide their physical and emotional scars. Their hearts have ‘eyes’ and lead them out of the shadows into the light. Being able to open up and lean on one another, they now face a bright and happy life together that they have earned and deserve.
September 29, 2015
Great book and a great start to a new series! This series will be centered around Artemis Security, a personal security division of the Delos charity conglomerate. While this is the first book of the series there is a prequel that I highly suggest you read called Last Chance. This will help give you an better insight into Lia and introduce you to some of the main players of the series.
Lia Cassidy survived the worst kind of betrayal, a vicious attack by two of her fellow soliders. The attack no only left Lia emotionally scared but physically as well. As if that wasn't enough for one lifetime she is now on the run from an attack ordered by a notoriously vicious drug lord. Her employer, Delos Home School Charity arranges for her to have personal security in the form of Cav Jordan a gorgeous ex-seal.
Cav Jordan is immediately intrigued by Lia. He knows Lia has suffered in the past and having grown up with an abusive drug-addicted father he can understand her in ways many can't. Cav is determined to break down the walls Lia has built around herself and as the two find themselves trying to escape the danger a bond starts to grow between these two.
This is an amazing and heart breaking story of trust, letting go of ghost from the past and learning to love. You will not be able to put this book down once you start! I highly recommend adding this series to your TBR pile!
I received an eARC copy of the book compliments of the publisher for my hones review and opinion. All ratings and opinions stated are my own.
Lia Cassidy survived the worst kind of betrayal, a vicious attack by two of her fellow soliders. The attack no only left Lia emotionally scared but physically as well. As if that wasn't enough for one lifetime she is now on the run from an attack ordered by a notoriously vicious drug lord. Her employer, Delos Home School Charity arranges for her to have personal security in the form of Cav Jordan a gorgeous ex-seal.
Cav Jordan is immediately intrigued by Lia. He knows Lia has suffered in the past and having grown up with an abusive drug-addicted father he can understand her in ways many can't. Cav is determined to break down the walls Lia has built around herself and as the two find themselves trying to escape the danger a bond starts to grow between these two.
This is an amazing and heart breaking story of trust, letting go of ghost from the past and learning to love. You will not be able to put this book down once you start! I highly recommend adding this series to your TBR pile!
I received an eARC copy of the book compliments of the publisher for my hones review and opinion. All ratings and opinions stated are my own.
December 1, 2017
DNF. Sometimes there are some key errors in a book that annoy you very early on and after that every little error just makes your dislike of the book grow. This happened to me with 'Nowhere to Hide'. Lia was a Sergent in the US Army, mechanic by trade. She had reached this rank by the age of 20 and had spent several years at the Bagram base in Afghanisatan. So many problems with this background. Mechanic trainig takes several years so by 20, even assuming Lia had joined straight after highschool, she would be at a more junior rank. You are deployed overseas for max 12 month rotations so she couldn't have spent 'years' at Bagram unless she was a child genius and finished her military training in less than a couple of months. Sergent is rank E-5, not rank E-4 as was mentioned. She had spent 2 years post her attack receiving medical treatment, had been working for the charity organisation for 4 years but was still only 25.
I finally called it quits when Cav explained how he has super-spidey senses that means he can know when he is under threat and also identify the exact direction. Now, I know several ex-military and currently serving military who have spent time in war situations. Special forces or not, you get more sensitive to danger. But you aren't super heroes and your senses don't always pick up what they should so it annoys me when stories reflect their characters this way.
Deciding I just didn't care how or when or what ordeals Cav and Lia would face when getting it on, I called it quits.
I finally called it quits when Cav explained how he has super-spidey senses that means he can know when he is under threat and also identify the exact direction. Now, I know several ex-military and currently serving military who have spent time in war situations. Special forces or not, you get more sensitive to danger. But you aren't super heroes and your senses don't always pick up what they should so it annoys me when stories reflect their characters this way.
Deciding I just didn't care how or when or what ordeals Cav and Lia would face when getting it on, I called it quits.
October 6, 2015
In "Nowhere to Hide", Ms. McKenna introduces us to Lia and Cav. Both characters have some dark times in their past that have resulted in both physical and emotional scars. I really, really liked Lia. She's a strong, independent woman but knows when she needs help. It drives me nuts when heroines feel they must do it all on their own. Despite a horrific event from her past that has left her unsure about herself and around men, she stands up for what she believes in and accepts help from Cav. Cav, a former Navy SEAL, now in the security business, arrives to be a bodyguard to Lia. I really liked Cav as well, although when we first meet him, I wasn't 100% sure if I would - he came off as a bit of a jerk! However, he's a down to earth guy, that believes in what he does and, despite having a rough upbringing, is a good guy that wants to protect. There is an instant attraction between the two and together they were terrific! Ms. McKenna did a wonderful job of building their simmering attraction - it was slow and steady but realistic. The danger presented in this story is non stop and keeps the reader guessing, waiting for something to happen. From page one, the reader is brought to edge of their seat with the events that happen.
For a romantic suspense story, Ms. McKenna has written a winner! (received copy for honest review)
For a romantic suspense story, Ms. McKenna has written a winner! (received copy for honest review)
November 16, 2015
After reading the Shadow Warriors series, I was very excited to read this new one. I was a little disappointed in the writing. I found the reading to be slow and many thoughts and information repeated needlessly. I, like another reader, went in with another mindset and had to get my 'fuzzy hat' on instead of the 'suspense hat' on. After reading the novella, I had my thinking of a whole differnet outcome for the story line. I felt the novella led me into a different direction than the actual book took. I can usually read a book in one setting, but this one took me days to read. Not a good sign for me.
I will read the rest of the series when they come out, but I'm also hoping the next books will be more in line with her previous books. More gripping characters and more suspense to the story line. I felt this book was too fuzzy for my liking. I could see these two doing more in-between H trying to win her trust and love.
Will continue to recommend author to friends.
I will read the rest of the series when they come out, but I'm also hoping the next books will be more in line with her previous books. More gripping characters and more suspense to the story line. I felt this book was too fuzzy for my liking. I could see these two doing more in-between H trying to win her trust and love.
Will continue to recommend author to friends.
June 21, 2016
Please note this review may contain spoilers.
Sadly, NOWHERE TO HIDE was a DNF for me. I stopped at the 43% mark when my guess from the start of the story about certain characters was confirmed, it was that obvious. Overall I had trouble getting into the story and the writing style was a little difficult for me to adjust to. You definitely need to read the prequel novella, LAST CHANCE, before reading NOWHERE TO HIDE as the attack on the school is not really explained in this book, it's more of a before-and-after type explanation. If I hadn't read the prequel novella, I think the story would have lost me from the beginning.
For more reviews, please visit our website: www.romancebetweenthesheets.com
I was given an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Sadly, NOWHERE TO HIDE was a DNF for me. I stopped at the 43% mark when my guess from the start of the story about certain characters was confirmed, it was that obvious. Overall I had trouble getting into the story and the writing style was a little difficult for me to adjust to. You definitely need to read the prequel novella, LAST CHANCE, before reading NOWHERE TO HIDE as the attack on the school is not really explained in this book, it's more of a before-and-after type explanation. If I hadn't read the prequel novella, I think the story would have lost me from the beginning.
For more reviews, please visit our website: www.romancebetweenthesheets.com
I was given an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
February 25, 2016
Cav Jordan is strong, honorable and gorgeous…and intrigued by Lia. Lia Cassidy left the service of her country because of a betrayal in the ranks that changed her life. She sought a way to make her life mean more by dedicating her life service to those in the most need, women and children. All this changes for her when her past creeps in and makes this life difficult to continue on.
I love Cav. There was something about him. He stood out as that one man no matter what you could trust. This was a ride in action, adventure, trust, and a little something more.
I love Cav. There was something about him. He stood out as that one man no matter what you could trust. This was a ride in action, adventure, trust, and a little something more.
October 9, 2015
* A review copy was provided by the author for the Blog Tour *
~ 3.5 Healing Stars ~
Full Review to come after 10/23/15….
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~ 3.5 Healing Stars ~
Full Review to come after 10/23/15….
Follow Us at :: Book Bitches Blog | Facebook | Twitter
July 19, 2016
This was a great first novel for Ms. McKenna's new series. Both hero and heroine have their scars. This is a story of healing with several appealing secondary characters; especially the founders of the organization for which Cav and Lia work. I listened to the audio version and part of my enjoyment is the wonderful narrator, Johanna Parker.
December 22, 2017
The first half was great. I loved the characters and the suspense but the situation in Costa Rica resolved very quickly and I was disappointed that it all happened behind the scenes. The rest of the novel was dull with fluffy romance and lengthy dialogue between the two main characters.
December 23, 2023
1 1/2 - 2 Stars
The audio version of this book was free for me. The summary sounded interesting and the sample quite gripping. I have never read a book by this author. Therefore, there was a lot to attract me. However, the book quickly went downhill for me. Here are some reasons. The two leads characters. The FMC was different than I expected her to be. In the beginning, she seemed feisty, a fighter--someone who would take no mess. But when we meet her later, she is very different. (Okay, she's been through a lot). Then we have the MMC. The first impression was not great. He's waking up from a massive hangover, puking and has a bit of a callous attitude towards his housekeeper. (The place is a pig sty, and neither he nor his roommate, makes any effort to clean after themselves.) Then he turns into the most sensitive, aware, introspective, understanding etc. guy.
It's pretty much insta-love/lust between the two of them from the beginning. The MMC is a goner as soon as he sees her picture. It doesn't take long for the FMC is fall either. The writing for me wasn't great. Some of the conversations just did not seem realistic or natural. And I caught a few errors (hair length, jean/linen pants etc.). Another reviewer brought the rank error to my attention. Some other things made me wonder. The FMC was super self-conscious regarding her scars to point she did her best to cover the ones on her arms/legs. However, she wore her hair super short when she used to wear it long. Hmm...I couldn't understand why she wouldn't wear it long since it would at minimum probably cover the scar on her neck. She states that everyone is always repulsed at her scars, which besides the MMC there's others who don't react that way in the story. Also, their boss (I forget her name now)--it is mentioned a few times that she is in her early 40s. And she has I think three kids who were all in the military. Now if she's 43, (early not mid 40s mind you) and met her husband at 22, the oldest one could not be more 21. Unless I messed up and they were her step kids. (I did skip some, so possible.)
Anyway, that's just some of the niggles I had with this book. Many reviewers covered the other stuff, so I won't reiterate them here.
Content:
Intimacy: Not clean. There's a whole lot of lusting. And some open-door action in later chapters. I skipped over so can't say how detail it got.
Language: There's cursing. Mid-range-ish.
Violence: There's the assault on the FMC, she's traumatized by it. As well as the threats to her life. Another attempt on her life later. Several mentions of child or underage sex trafficking, assault, and rape.
The audio version of this book was free for me. The summary sounded interesting and the sample quite gripping. I have never read a book by this author. Therefore, there was a lot to attract me. However, the book quickly went downhill for me. Here are some reasons. The two leads characters. The FMC was different than I expected her to be. In the beginning, she seemed feisty, a fighter--someone who would take no mess. But when we meet her later, she is very different. (Okay, she's been through a lot). Then we have the MMC. The first impression was not great. He's waking up from a massive hangover, puking and has a bit of a callous attitude towards his housekeeper. (The place is a pig sty, and neither he nor his roommate, makes any effort to clean after themselves.) Then he turns into the most sensitive, aware, introspective, understanding etc. guy.
It's pretty much insta-love/lust between the two of them from the beginning. The MMC is a goner as soon as he sees her picture. It doesn't take long for the FMC is fall either. The writing for me wasn't great. Some of the conversations just did not seem realistic or natural. And I caught a few errors (hair length, jean/linen pants etc.). Another reviewer brought the rank error to my attention. Some other things made me wonder. The FMC was super self-conscious regarding her scars to point she did her best to cover the ones on her arms/legs. However, she wore her hair super short when she used to wear it long. Hmm...I couldn't understand why she wouldn't wear it long since it would at minimum probably cover the scar on her neck. She states that everyone is always repulsed at her scars, which besides the MMC there's others who don't react that way in the story. Also, their boss (I forget her name now)--it is mentioned a few times that she is in her early 40s. And she has I think three kids who were all in the military. Now if she's 43, (early not mid 40s mind you) and met her husband at 22, the oldest one could not be more 21. Unless I messed up and they were her step kids. (I did skip some, so possible.)
Anyway, that's just some of the niggles I had with this book. Many reviewers covered the other stuff, so I won't reiterate them here.
Content:
Intimacy: Not clean. There's a whole lot of lusting. And some open-door action in later chapters. I skipped over so can't say how detail it got.
Language: There's cursing. Mid-range-ish.
Violence: There's the assault on the FMC, she's traumatized by it. As well as the threats to her life. Another attempt on her life later. Several mentions of child or underage sex trafficking, assault, and rape.
April 7, 2019
An unwarranted, brutal assault, physical, mental and emotional scars, haunting nightmares, a lost fiancé, topped with one too many looks of pity, sends emotionally fragile army veteran, Lia Cassidy to the jungles of Costa Rica managing a school for Delos International Charities leaving her hopes for love and romance behind.
Unknown to Lia's employers, their school is in a dangerous region ruled by La Arana, a powerful, tyrannical drug lord. Responding to a call for help puts Lia in La Arana's deadly crosshairs shattering the semblance of peace she's created in the small village. La Arana's devious plan to 'teach' Lia a thorough lesson brings immediate action from Delos.
Intrigued and spurred on by the vulnerable beauty he sees in a grainy photo, emotionally wary, battle weary ex-SEAL, Cavanaugh 'Cav' Jordan pushes his own demons aside and accepts the assignment to act as personal security for Lia in the dangerous region.
Fully fleshed main characters Lia and Cav are easily accessible, wounded Lia's complex and sympathetic, while Cav's a charming warrior to believe in. Secondary characters, the Culvers were thin and convenient and La Arana reads as a huge manically evil ego surrounded by stooges and lacked real presence.
Completists will miss nothing by skipping Last Chance as the short is practically pasted as chapter one. For my taste, overall this outing succeeds as a series foundation and delivers the basics though the action and suspense pieces are extremely light. Also, fewer repetitive sentences could avoid periodic "clunkiness."
Rating 3.75stars
Unknown to Lia's employers, their school is in a dangerous region ruled by La Arana, a powerful, tyrannical drug lord. Responding to a call for help puts Lia in La Arana's deadly crosshairs shattering the semblance of peace she's created in the small village. La Arana's devious plan to 'teach' Lia a thorough lesson brings immediate action from Delos.
Intrigued and spurred on by the vulnerable beauty he sees in a grainy photo, emotionally wary, battle weary ex-SEAL, Cavanaugh 'Cav' Jordan pushes his own demons aside and accepts the assignment to act as personal security for Lia in the dangerous region.
Fully fleshed main characters Lia and Cav are easily accessible, wounded Lia's complex and sympathetic, while Cav's a charming warrior to believe in. Secondary characters, the Culvers were thin and convenient and La Arana reads as a huge manically evil ego surrounded by stooges and lacked real presence.
Completists will miss nothing by skipping Last Chance as the short is practically pasted as chapter one. For my taste, overall this outing succeeds as a series foundation and delivers the basics though the action and suspense pieces are extremely light. Also, fewer repetitive sentences could avoid periodic "clunkiness."
Rating 3.75stars
August 31, 2019
Reviewed by Angela
Book provided by the author
Lia learned the hard way you can't hide from your fears. Lia was a strong woman who was put in a bad situation, and the way that she handled the aftermath was to run. But as I have always been told you can't hide from your fears. Eventually you have to face them head on. The lucky thing for Lia is that she had Cav.
Cav worked in the private security sector. It only takes one meeting for Cav to realize there is something different about Lia. She is beautiful yes but it's not just that. There is a connection there. One that Cav is afraid to pursue, but it's one that Lia feels too. But Lia has a past that she can't put behind her and is afraid to let anyone in, let alone an attractive man like Cav.
This is an amazing book right from the get go. Lia, although she has been through a lot is such a strong female lead and an inspiration at all woman who have gone through their own personal struggles. It's great if you have someone with you to support you get through those tough times, but even more important is to have the strength to get through those times on your own. With Cav by her side he helps Lia see that how she sees herself is not the same as how others see her.
This book pulled at my heartstrings and had me close to tears. Happy tears that is. I can't wait for the next book in the series, Tangled Pursuit. These books carry similar characters across the stories but I believe they can be read as stand alone novels. Because of the connection that I felt with the characters and the story I am giving this book a 5 rose rating.
Favorite Quote: "You do now, baby. We're slowly healing one another over time. We've entrusted ourselves to each other."
Book provided by the author
Lia learned the hard way you can't hide from your fears. Lia was a strong woman who was put in a bad situation, and the way that she handled the aftermath was to run. But as I have always been told you can't hide from your fears. Eventually you have to face them head on. The lucky thing for Lia is that she had Cav.
Cav worked in the private security sector. It only takes one meeting for Cav to realize there is something different about Lia. She is beautiful yes but it's not just that. There is a connection there. One that Cav is afraid to pursue, but it's one that Lia feels too. But Lia has a past that she can't put behind her and is afraid to let anyone in, let alone an attractive man like Cav.
This is an amazing book right from the get go. Lia, although she has been through a lot is such a strong female lead and an inspiration at all woman who have gone through their own personal struggles. It's great if you have someone with you to support you get through those tough times, but even more important is to have the strength to get through those times on your own. With Cav by her side he helps Lia see that how she sees herself is not the same as how others see her.
This book pulled at my heartstrings and had me close to tears. Happy tears that is. I can't wait for the next book in the series, Tangled Pursuit. These books carry similar characters across the stories but I believe they can be read as stand alone novels. Because of the connection that I felt with the characters and the story I am giving this book a 5 rose rating.
Favorite Quote: "You do now, baby. We're slowly healing one another over time. We've entrusted ourselves to each other."
Read
April 27, 2022I loved this book, but because i have to either get them from my library or read them online sometimes they are not in order, but i can usually put things together. As i have read all i can from the library or online i am going to search the 2nd hand book shops. So am keeping my fingers crossed i can get some more. Could any of the reviewers help me in finding another author that is similar to Lindsays books or just as good. Thank you in advance.
July 5, 2019
I really liked the strong heroine and the action that focussed on her in the beginning of the book. If you’re a fan of action/suspense, this might not be the book for you because it was more wholesome and about the main protagonists’ recovery from their pasts. Taking out the drug lord that threatened Lia was too easy and underwhelming in my opinion.
October 6, 2015
Whether or not a reader will like Nowhere to Hide will depend on the reader’s expectations. If you expect a lot of danger and action, you will be disappointed. If you expect a story that revolves around internal conflict rather than external conflict, you will probably enjoy Nowhere to Hide.
I was mislead by some ARC reviews I read that applauded the suspense. One review called it “heart-pounding.” I don’t feel that is the case at all with this book. In the entire book, there is only one scene that involves physical danger. The rest of it takes place off-stage.
The story is more about Lia’s shame about her scars, her PTSD, and her budding relationship with Cav (her bodyguard who also has a tragic past). That’s not necessarily a bad thing. It’s just not what I expected. If you go into reading this knowing that, I think you will really enjoy the story.
The story line about Medina, the drug-lord who ordered the teachers killed (which also takes place off-stage–more about that in a minute), is mostly there just to move characters around. This is what got Cav to go to Costa Rica, because he is assigned to protect Lia. It’s what makes Delos start up a security division. Medina’s defeat (also off-stage) leads to Lia and Cav being moved to the U.S..
Because I had read “Last Chance,” which details the attack on the teachers, I was confused by the opening pages of Nowhere to Hide. I had assumed that this book would pick up where the novella left off. It didn’t. It throws us back in time for a while to the scene that led up to that attack. Then, the actual attack is skipped over, and we get Cav’s point of view after the attack. I understand that there wasn’t a need to retell the attack, because it’s in “Last Chance,” but I didn’t get why readers need the opening scene that takes us back in time. Why not just start the book where the last story left off? It was confusing to me. Plus, I don’t think everyone will read “Last Chance,” and, if that is the case, they will miss the inciting incident of the plot totally.
If you don’t like books that start with backstory, you won’t like Nowhere to Hide. Actually, a lot of the book involves the characters telling one another about their pasts, so there’s quite a bit of backstory all the way through.
It may be just a formatting issue because I read an ARC, but I want to mention that the lack of scene breaks or transitions really threw me. One minute it’s one character’s POV. In the next paragraph, it’s another character’s point of view. This was especially confusing when it switched from Medina to Lia from one paragraph to the next without an extra space or asterisks.
A couple of other issues I saw in Nowhere to Hide are: 1) details didn’t always match up between this book and “Last Chance,” and 2) conversations were repeated and the characters acted like they were receiving new information.
I can overlook a lot of these little complaints. However, I really expected more action and overt threats or danger for a romantic suspense. There was too much focus on Lia’s psychological problems. The majority of the scenes in the book were about her getting to know Cav, learning to trust him, and opening herself up to him, none of which advanced the plot regarding the drug-lord. Only about 10% of the book focuses on him wanting to kidnap or kill Lia. And by 68% into the book, he’s out of the picture anyway.
I know I have focused on the negatives so far. I apologize; I figured I’d go ahead and get that out of the way. Now, let me tell you what I did like about the story. The best aspect of Nowhere to Hide is the depth of character development. While this is bad in a way because it takes up so much of the story, it is also good because it gives the reader a deep understanding of Lia and Cav. It is obvious that the author has spent time researching PTSD.
Another positive is how the romance is allowed to develop naturally without the author pushing them into bed or love. The characters were allowed to work their way through issues instead of jumping into the relationship head first.
I also liked how most of the characters were sensitive and caring. Almost everyone in this book was so darned nice. Maybe it would have been more exciting with more challenging characters, but it seemed to work overall for a contemporary romance type of story, which is what I really feel like this book is instead of romantic suspense. If I judge it by those standards, instead of expecting a series of escalating dangerous situations, I feel more confident in giving Nowhere to Hide a high rating.
As a romance, it is definitely worth 5 stars. As a romantic suspense, it is more like 3 stars. So, I’ll split the difference and give it 4 stars. I did enjoy reading it. It just wasn’t what I’ve come to expect from romantic suspense novels.
I recommend Nowhere to Hide to readers who like books with a lot of internal conflict. It’s also great for readers who like a lot of dialogue, allowing characters to truly get to know one another before falling in love.
*I received a free copy in exchange for my honest review.
I was mislead by some ARC reviews I read that applauded the suspense. One review called it “heart-pounding.” I don’t feel that is the case at all with this book. In the entire book, there is only one scene that involves physical danger. The rest of it takes place off-stage.
The story is more about Lia’s shame about her scars, her PTSD, and her budding relationship with Cav (her bodyguard who also has a tragic past). That’s not necessarily a bad thing. It’s just not what I expected. If you go into reading this knowing that, I think you will really enjoy the story.
The story line about Medina, the drug-lord who ordered the teachers killed (which also takes place off-stage–more about that in a minute), is mostly there just to move characters around. This is what got Cav to go to Costa Rica, because he is assigned to protect Lia. It’s what makes Delos start up a security division. Medina’s defeat (also off-stage) leads to Lia and Cav being moved to the U.S..
Because I had read “Last Chance,” which details the attack on the teachers, I was confused by the opening pages of Nowhere to Hide. I had assumed that this book would pick up where the novella left off. It didn’t. It throws us back in time for a while to the scene that led up to that attack. Then, the actual attack is skipped over, and we get Cav’s point of view after the attack. I understand that there wasn’t a need to retell the attack, because it’s in “Last Chance,” but I didn’t get why readers need the opening scene that takes us back in time. Why not just start the book where the last story left off? It was confusing to me. Plus, I don’t think everyone will read “Last Chance,” and, if that is the case, they will miss the inciting incident of the plot totally.
If you don’t like books that start with backstory, you won’t like Nowhere to Hide. Actually, a lot of the book involves the characters telling one another about their pasts, so there’s quite a bit of backstory all the way through.
It may be just a formatting issue because I read an ARC, but I want to mention that the lack of scene breaks or transitions really threw me. One minute it’s one character’s POV. In the next paragraph, it’s another character’s point of view. This was especially confusing when it switched from Medina to Lia from one paragraph to the next without an extra space or asterisks.
A couple of other issues I saw in Nowhere to Hide are: 1) details didn’t always match up between this book and “Last Chance,” and 2) conversations were repeated and the characters acted like they were receiving new information.
I can overlook a lot of these little complaints. However, I really expected more action and overt threats or danger for a romantic suspense. There was too much focus on Lia’s psychological problems. The majority of the scenes in the book were about her getting to know Cav, learning to trust him, and opening herself up to him, none of which advanced the plot regarding the drug-lord. Only about 10% of the book focuses on him wanting to kidnap or kill Lia. And by 68% into the book, he’s out of the picture anyway.
I know I have focused on the negatives so far. I apologize; I figured I’d go ahead and get that out of the way. Now, let me tell you what I did like about the story. The best aspect of Nowhere to Hide is the depth of character development. While this is bad in a way because it takes up so much of the story, it is also good because it gives the reader a deep understanding of Lia and Cav. It is obvious that the author has spent time researching PTSD.
Another positive is how the romance is allowed to develop naturally without the author pushing them into bed or love. The characters were allowed to work their way through issues instead of jumping into the relationship head first.
I also liked how most of the characters were sensitive and caring. Almost everyone in this book was so darned nice. Maybe it would have been more exciting with more challenging characters, but it seemed to work overall for a contemporary romance type of story, which is what I really feel like this book is instead of romantic suspense. If I judge it by those standards, instead of expecting a series of escalating dangerous situations, I feel more confident in giving Nowhere to Hide a high rating.
As a romance, it is definitely worth 5 stars. As a romantic suspense, it is more like 3 stars. So, I’ll split the difference and give it 4 stars. I did enjoy reading it. It just wasn’t what I’ve come to expect from romantic suspense novels.
I recommend Nowhere to Hide to readers who like books with a lot of internal conflict. It’s also great for readers who like a lot of dialogue, allowing characters to truly get to know one another before falling in love.
*I received a free copy in exchange for my honest review.
January 19, 2018
boring...
January 27, 2018
This is my first read by this author and really enjoyed it
Looking forward to reading more
Looking forward to reading more
June 16, 2019
Anticlimactic. I was hoping for more suspense since this deals with paramilitary type stuff. Nope.
library
July 30, 20210
December 27, 2016
Our Rating:
I was really looking forward to this one because, let’s face it, one can only take in so many fluffy little love stories before needing something with more action and grit. From the first scene, I was all in. It was a bit confusing, being a dream sequence and all, but it certainly set the tone for Lia’s state of mind.
After a horrific experience at the hands of her fellow soldiers when she was in the Army, Lia has been hiding from the world in the forests of Costa Rica. Scarred both physically and psychologically from her past, she finds solace in the remote little school and the children for whom she helps care. But that security is shattered when a local drug lord exacts revenge on the school for their role in helping one of his victims escape.
Cav, a former SEAL, now works in black ops, using the skills he developed in the military to provide security in some of the most dangerous places in the world. His latest assignment, to guard the lone adult survivor in an attack on a small, charity-sponsored school, takes him to Costa Rica, where he finds himself face to face with a beautiful but damaged woman who seems to be doing her best to be invisible.
Lia and Cav had instant chemistry, but true to their issues, they didn’t immediately act on it. While it was clear that they each saw something familiar and comforting in one another, they still had their own hang-ups to work through. In close proximity, they got to know each other, and an easy trust was soon developed — just in time for the danger to become too extreme to stay. And that’s where the story went a bit downhill for me.
I was really in the mood for something more than your standard romance novel, and Nowhere to Hide seemed like the right book for that. The characters were intriguing, the situation dangerous but entirely plausible, and the setting quite different from your average love story. But after roughly half the book, the threat was resolved (rather easily, I might add), and it was back to the States to work through the characters’ traumas, so they could forge ahead with a relationship. For those that want lots of introspection and a bit of a psych study, it’s perfect. But for me… Well, the synopsis had me thinking this was going to be one crazy ride filled with danger and intrigue, but that ride ended well before the book did, so it probably wasn’t the right pick. It was well-written and fully developed, though, and it’s clear that Lindsay McKenna is one hell of a writer. I guess my only real issue is that the plot was much different than I expected or was looking for, and perhaps if that had been clearer to me from the get-go, it wouldn’t have fallen as flat.
***FicCentral received a free copy of this book from Tasty Book Tours.***
September 28, 2015
This is the first installment of Lindsay McKenna's new Delos series, which will be centered around Artemis Security, a personal security division of the huge Delos charity conglomerate. You will want to know who the players are with the Delos charity and Artemis alike, so I encourage you to at least read the Author's Note, but you can get more background by reading the prequel, Last Chance.
Lia Cassidy is a tortured heroine, self-conscious about being disfigured after a brutal attack that occurred when she was in the Army. Lia has just been through another harrowing attack ordered by the local drug lord, and Delos arranges for her to have personal security in the form of Cav Jordan. Cav is also a tortured hero, having grown up with an abusive drug-addicted father. This couple is drawn to one another from the first meeting, and there's nothing like danger to bring a couple closer together. Dilara and Robert, founders of Delos, fancy themselves matchmakers and have handpicked Cav to take care of Lia and bring her out of her shell. Their romance was very much a slow burn as both had to get over past hurts and learn to trust another person in a romantic situation.
I thought the suspense in this book (and in Last Chance) was done quite well. The situation with the drug lord didn't require you to suspend your belief, and all of the events seemed within the realm of possibility. I would have actually liked for the suspense/action to continue longer than it did because the story became much more slow-paced for the last quarter and I missed the adrenaline spikes.
The book was very dialogue-driven so I felt there was more telling than showing, if that makes sense. I think it would have been a good candidate for an alternating first-person POV instead of the third-person POV that we have. But that is a personal preference for me - I love to get in the characters heads. I did like reading about the spelunking - it has me wanting to go find some caves around me. But being as we are below sea-level here, that might not be the smartest idea.
I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. 3 stars / 2 flames.
Lia Cassidy is a tortured heroine, self-conscious about being disfigured after a brutal attack that occurred when she was in the Army. Lia has just been through another harrowing attack ordered by the local drug lord, and Delos arranges for her to have personal security in the form of Cav Jordan. Cav is also a tortured hero, having grown up with an abusive drug-addicted father. This couple is drawn to one another from the first meeting, and there's nothing like danger to bring a couple closer together. Dilara and Robert, founders of Delos, fancy themselves matchmakers and have handpicked Cav to take care of Lia and bring her out of her shell. Their romance was very much a slow burn as both had to get over past hurts and learn to trust another person in a romantic situation.
I thought the suspense in this book (and in Last Chance) was done quite well. The situation with the drug lord didn't require you to suspend your belief, and all of the events seemed within the realm of possibility. I would have actually liked for the suspense/action to continue longer than it did because the story became much more slow-paced for the last quarter and I missed the adrenaline spikes.
The book was very dialogue-driven so I felt there was more telling than showing, if that makes sense. I think it would have been a good candidate for an alternating first-person POV instead of the third-person POV that we have. But that is a personal preference for me - I love to get in the characters heads. I did like reading about the spelunking - it has me wanting to go find some caves around me. But being as we are below sea-level here, that might not be the smartest idea.
I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. 3 stars / 2 flames.
October 5, 2015
5 STARS
I love reading the first book in a new series. Delos is Lindsay McKenna's new series. It is full of drama, exploring, romance and with characters with heart. There is a couple of love scenes towards the end of the story that i did skip over.
I really loved the scenes with Lia and the children. She really cared for them and thought they were important.
Lia Cassidy was attacked when she was in the army. She fought back and has the scars too prove it.
Lia now manages a school in Costa Rica for the Delos charity. She works more than full time there. She does not think she will ever get married.
Lia loves to go Caving. Makes me want to go too. I can imagine how it would be from the great descriptions in the book.
The school gets attacked and the two teachers murdered and the school gets burned down. That does not stop the school, Delos or Lia. Lia has a plan.
Dilara Kemel-Badem Her family started Delos charities in 1950's. Dilara is a matchmaker. Her employees are part of her family. She married U.S. Air Force Major Robert Culver in 1990.
Robert Culver now General. They have three adult children in the armed forces. Robert and Dilara are going forward to protect all there charities around the world with there own force. Artemis Security.
They are going to protect Lia and the new teachers and children. Lia gets Cav Jordan as her personal protection.
Cav has his own past troubles. A former US Navy Seal. I really like Cav. He falls for Lia fast but takes time to get to know her and help her gain self confidence. Cav is determined to keep her safe.
I look forward to reading more of the Delos Charities in the future. I can see why such a need for both the charity and for the security force to protect them. It is modern and entirely believable.
I was given this ebook by the author to read and in return I agreed to give a honest review of Nowhere to Hide.
I love reading the first book in a new series. Delos is Lindsay McKenna's new series. It is full of drama, exploring, romance and with characters with heart. There is a couple of love scenes towards the end of the story that i did skip over.
I really loved the scenes with Lia and the children. She really cared for them and thought they were important.
Lia Cassidy was attacked when she was in the army. She fought back and has the scars too prove it.
Lia now manages a school in Costa Rica for the Delos charity. She works more than full time there. She does not think she will ever get married.
Lia loves to go Caving. Makes me want to go too. I can imagine how it would be from the great descriptions in the book.
The school gets attacked and the two teachers murdered and the school gets burned down. That does not stop the school, Delos or Lia. Lia has a plan.
Dilara Kemel-Badem Her family started Delos charities in 1950's. Dilara is a matchmaker. Her employees are part of her family. She married U.S. Air Force Major Robert Culver in 1990.
Robert Culver now General. They have three adult children in the armed forces. Robert and Dilara are going forward to protect all there charities around the world with there own force. Artemis Security.
They are going to protect Lia and the new teachers and children. Lia gets Cav Jordan as her personal protection.
Cav has his own past troubles. A former US Navy Seal. I really like Cav. He falls for Lia fast but takes time to get to know her and help her gain self confidence. Cav is determined to keep her safe.
I look forward to reading more of the Delos Charities in the future. I can see why such a need for both the charity and for the security force to protect them. It is modern and entirely believable.
I was given this ebook by the author to read and in return I agreed to give a honest review of Nowhere to Hide.
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