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Rescue Me
Life is exciting if you’re one of the top RCMP officers in the country. With a few good years under her belt and a promotion so close she can almost touch it, Staff Sergeant Kristen Bailey of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police has everything figured out. Until she meets Ashleigh Paige.
Beautiful, naïve, intelligent, and trusting, Ashleigh is the perfect possible lead for Bailey’s case. All she has to do is get close to her. The only problem is Ashleigh’s a paramedic, and in Toronto, paramedics and cops don’t mix.
Undercover and searching for answers as a Toronto police officer, Bailey uses her charm to get Ashleigh to trust her and open up about what she knows surrounding the case of a dead police officer and the paramedics who might have murdered him.
The trouble is, the closer she gets to Ashleigh, the more the line between informant and intimate gets blurred.
272 pages
(94,000 words)
Themes: Canada · female police officer · lesbian · paramedic · police · Toronto
Beautiful, naïve, intelligent, and trusting, Ashleigh is the perfect possible lead for Bailey’s case. All she has to do is get close to her. The only problem is Ashleigh’s a paramedic, and in Toronto, paramedics and cops don’t mix.
Undercover and searching for answers as a Toronto police officer, Bailey uses her charm to get Ashleigh to trust her and open up about what she knows surrounding the case of a dead police officer and the paramedics who might have murdered him.
The trouble is, the closer she gets to Ashleigh, the more the line between informant and intimate gets blurred.
272 pages
(94,000 words)
Themes: Canada · female police officer · lesbian · paramedic · police · Toronto
272 pages, ebook
First published October 19, 2016
32 people are currently reading
1024 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 153 reviews
March 16, 2017
This is the first book I have read by Teichman. I've been wanting to read this book, and I'm happy to say it lived up to my expectations. Teichman writes crime/romance well.
I've always been a fan of lesfic cops and docs type books. This had your Royal Mounted Police and a paramedic, so it was perfect for me. The two mains were likeable. You had the player, no time for a relationship Bailey and the innocent, sweet paramedic Ashleigh.
The romance was a bit clunky in parts, especially with one characters background affecting things, but it didn't bother me. I believed in them being together, and felt their chemistry. I was pretty impressed by the love scenes too. They were pretty darn steamy, and seemed slightly different than what I usually read. I think sometimes authors can write the same sex scenes over and over and they can get repetitive. That wasn't the case here at all, which was nice.
Besides the romance, the other main part of this book was the mystery. I thought it was well done and pretty exciting at times. There was even a twist, I did not see coming. I also liked that even though Bailey, was a tough RCMP, she wasn't invincible. Sometimes authors make there mains so tough, it's like they are super heroes. The way Bailey was written was much more realistic and believable.
I do have to mention a slight trigger warning. There is the threat of rape.
My only main complaint, and it's very small, is the author would use last names and first names very often. Both characters have last names that could be first names, so it took longer than it should to remember who was who. In the same paragraph, Teichman would use Bailey and Kristen to refer to the same person. And I couldn't tell why she would use one name, then why she would use the other.
Overall, I really enjoyed this and easily recommend this to crime/romance fans. I'm looking forward to reading The Space Between. And other books by Teichman, in the future.
An ARC was given to me by YLVA Publishing, for a honest review.
I've always been a fan of lesfic cops and docs type books. This had your Royal Mounted Police and a paramedic, so it was perfect for me. The two mains were likeable. You had the player, no time for a relationship Bailey and the innocent, sweet paramedic Ashleigh.
The romance was a bit clunky in parts, especially with one characters background affecting things, but it didn't bother me. I believed in them being together, and felt their chemistry. I was pretty impressed by the love scenes too. They were pretty darn steamy, and seemed slightly different than what I usually read. I think sometimes authors can write the same sex scenes over and over and they can get repetitive. That wasn't the case here at all, which was nice.
Besides the romance, the other main part of this book was the mystery. I thought it was well done and pretty exciting at times. There was even a twist, I did not see coming. I also liked that even though Bailey, was a tough RCMP, she wasn't invincible. Sometimes authors make there mains so tough, it's like they are super heroes. The way Bailey was written was much more realistic and believable.
I do have to mention a slight trigger warning. There is the threat of rape.
My only main complaint, and it's very small, is the author would use last names and first names very often. Both characters have last names that could be first names, so it took longer than it should to remember who was who. In the same paragraph, Teichman would use Bailey and Kristen to refer to the same person. And I couldn't tell why she would use one name, then why she would use the other.
Overall, I really enjoyed this and easily recommend this to crime/romance fans. I'm looking forward to reading The Space Between. And other books by Teichman, in the future.
An ARC was given to me by YLVA Publishing, for a honest review.
April 24, 2019
I work in a Toronto hospital, and my route out of the building at the end of each day takes me through the ambulance bay and I'm not gonna lie, my neck has been stretched more than a few times when I see a pretty paramedic cross my path (don't judge, I know your eyes wander too). I've even had loose story lines involving paramedics run through my head. So I was thrilled to discover this book, set in my own city and with content I am very familiar with, considering the population I work with.
This was a decent read and my first by Ms. Teichman. Maybe it is because I could connect so vividly with the specific environments themselves that it held such interest to me, but the writing was also very strong. Minus the part when Ashleigh is going through a character's medications and states confidently that the woman has borderline personality disorder. There is no medication that would give away this diagnosis. I gotta be nit picky on that.
MC Kristen Bailey is a one-night stand cop who has had many a sexual conquest, and is way too cocky, the character that has been done time and time again so I wasn't super keen on her at the start. We do start to see more of her softer side as the story progresses, but she does have a very shocking and devastating past, though it isn't delved into in great detail, but we can see why she does not let people in easily. Apparently she is so magical that not one lady can resist her ever, including MC Ashleigh Paige, who is the paramedic. She starts out fairly weak, though seems to have a golden yet very sensitive and naive heart, and trust issues due to a bad experience with a lover. She has beautiful light brown locks that have some extraordinary twist to them.... not curls, but twists, making me assume that she spends an awful lot of time on those locks. Good to know though, I like good hair.
The story was quite interesting though in that there are rookie cops being murdered, and Kristen is an undercover RCMP trying to figure out what's going down. EMTs are suspected as being the bad guys, therefore there is secrecy abound. The mystery is good, and even though I had a pretty good idea whodunnit, a few curve balls were thrown my way, which I enjoyed. But you already know the drill, they fall for each other, the I love you's happen way too fast, one calms the other's wayward ways, etc etc. Also a few parts that I found frustrating was the constant switching of first and last names in the same scene. There's a love scene that's pretty hot, nice chemistry, but the names kept getting changed from "Kristen" to "Bailey" in the same sentences which felt clumsy. Just pick one for such an intimate scene, says I!
At 85% is the heightened climax to the story, where loads of grit and violence and action happen that is video game approved. Kristen literally becomes Nate Drake or Lara Croft or (insert your fave action gaming hero here). It defies belief, bur hey, it's fiction, so enjoy the ride. Overall 3.75 stars, I look forward to reading more of Ms. Teichman's work.
This was a decent read and my first by Ms. Teichman. Maybe it is because I could connect so vividly with the specific environments themselves that it held such interest to me, but the writing was also very strong. Minus the part when Ashleigh is going through a character's medications and states confidently that the woman has borderline personality disorder. There is no medication that would give away this diagnosis. I gotta be nit picky on that.
MC Kristen Bailey is a one-night stand cop who has had many a sexual conquest, and is way too cocky, the character that has been done time and time again so I wasn't super keen on her at the start. We do start to see more of her softer side as the story progresses, but she does have a very shocking and devastating past, though it isn't delved into in great detail, but we can see why she does not let people in easily. Apparently she is so magical that not one lady can resist her ever, including MC Ashleigh Paige, who is the paramedic. She starts out fairly weak, though seems to have a golden yet very sensitive and naive heart, and trust issues due to a bad experience with a lover. She has beautiful light brown locks that have some extraordinary twist to them.... not curls, but twists, making me assume that she spends an awful lot of time on those locks. Good to know though, I like good hair.
The story was quite interesting though in that there are rookie cops being murdered, and Kristen is an undercover RCMP trying to figure out what's going down. EMTs are suspected as being the bad guys, therefore there is secrecy abound. The mystery is good, and even though I had a pretty good idea whodunnit, a few curve balls were thrown my way, which I enjoyed. But you already know the drill, they fall for each other, the I love you's happen way too fast, one calms the other's wayward ways, etc etc. Also a few parts that I found frustrating was the constant switching of first and last names in the same scene. There's a love scene that's pretty hot, nice chemistry, but the names kept getting changed from "Kristen" to "Bailey" in the same sentences which felt clumsy. Just pick one for such an intimate scene, says I!
At 85% is the heightened climax to the story, where loads of grit and violence and action happen that is video game approved. Kristen literally becomes Nate Drake or Lara Croft or (insert your fave action gaming hero here). It defies belief, bur hey, it's fiction, so enjoy the ride. Overall 3.75 stars, I look forward to reading more of Ms. Teichman's work.
October 11, 2016
This is the second novel I have read by Michelle L. Teichman (the other being her young adult novel The Space Between), and I liked both. Rescue Me is a well-written romance cum mystery/intrigue/thriller with good pacing and dialogue. The plot was interesting, I liked the main characters, and there were some really good secondary characters. The suspenseful scenes were quite convincing.
I recommend this book, and am looking forward to the next book by the author.
4 stars
*ARC provided by publisher via NetGalley*
I recommend this book, and am looking forward to the next book by the author.
4 stars
*ARC provided by publisher via NetGalley*
October 9, 2016
I liked this book very much. It is written fluently and the story is exciting. The two main characters are strong and winning women.
Ashleigh has a big heart and she loves to help people. So the job as a paramedic is a great opportunity to do exactly this. And she’s good on the job. She also knows what she wants in her personal life, a good and sexy woman with which she can build a family. But it’s not so easy to find the right woman. And her lack of experience with lovers doesn’t help neither. After she’s dumped from a womanizer she swears to herself, never again get involved with that kind of woman again. But then she meets Kristen. Soon she hast o fight her growing feelings for her, but that’s easier said then done. And the more she learns about Kristen, the better she sees the caring woman under the shell. And she is determind to expose the real Kristen.
Kristen the cop with the tough exterior never falls for a woman. She does not leave any lover close enough to develop feelings. The one night stands are enough for her. She thinks, after her parents were murdered, she doesn’t deserve happyness again. When she gets to know Ashleigh, everything changes. Ashleigh is different. She sneaks into her thoughts and into her heart against her own will. It is nice to see, how Ashleigh slowly breaks the walls around Kristen's heart. One after another. And even when Kristen builds them up again, she tries again and don’t give up.
The cop/paramedic story is enthralling and dynamic. The undercover investigation with the twists and turns was intriguing and the action scenes well done.
I allways love a good crime story combined with a gripping love story. And I also loved the writing style of the author. It certainly will read more books of her. I give this story 4,5 stars.
Thanks to Ylva for receiving an ACR for a honest review. Sorry for my not correct english writing, my native language is swiss german.
Ashleigh has a big heart and she loves to help people. So the job as a paramedic is a great opportunity to do exactly this. And she’s good on the job. She also knows what she wants in her personal life, a good and sexy woman with which she can build a family. But it’s not so easy to find the right woman. And her lack of experience with lovers doesn’t help neither. After she’s dumped from a womanizer she swears to herself, never again get involved with that kind of woman again. But then she meets Kristen. Soon she hast o fight her growing feelings for her, but that’s easier said then done. And the more she learns about Kristen, the better she sees the caring woman under the shell. And she is determind to expose the real Kristen.
Kristen the cop with the tough exterior never falls for a woman. She does not leave any lover close enough to develop feelings. The one night stands are enough for her. She thinks, after her parents were murdered, she doesn’t deserve happyness again. When she gets to know Ashleigh, everything changes. Ashleigh is different. She sneaks into her thoughts and into her heart against her own will. It is nice to see, how Ashleigh slowly breaks the walls around Kristen's heart. One after another. And even when Kristen builds them up again, she tries again and don’t give up.
The cop/paramedic story is enthralling and dynamic. The undercover investigation with the twists and turns was intriguing and the action scenes well done.
I allways love a good crime story combined with a gripping love story. And I also loved the writing style of the author. It certainly will read more books of her. I give this story 4,5 stars.
Thanks to Ylva for receiving an ACR for a honest review. Sorry for my not correct english writing, my native language is swiss german.
October 13, 2016
The book Rescue Me, Michelle L. Teichman, starts out describing a rift between the Toronto police department and the local EMTs. These two organizations cannot get along, the officers declining medical help time and time again. Interesting concept that ties in a few different storylines to deliver a whodunit crime mystery with a side of romance
Staff Sergeant Kristen Bailey of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police is working undercover as Toronto PD. The RCMP believes that something nefarious is going on inside the police department. It is Kristen’s job to find out why an officer was murdered while waiting for an ambulance to come. This tangled web of deception is Kristen’s mess to figure out if she wants her coveted promotion to Banff. Kristen is your typical strong alpha type. She is all about the job. Her bed, well really their bed is a revolving door. A hookup is fine but any more than a night of passion forget it. Basically, a total womanizer and she admits to being one multiple times through the course of the story. Oh, and of course she is super hot.
Paramedic Ashleigh Paige is your nice, girl next door. Her heart is as big a Canada, and she is always there to help. She takes a particular shine to Kristen, even though she is rebuffed time and time again. After her one and only relationship with a woman failed miserably, Ashleigh is determined to find a lady who has a good heart and isn’t just looking for sex. She knows her attraction to Kristen is breaking her own rules but she just can’t stay away.
Now did I love it? Confession, this one just didn’t do it for me. I thought the first third of the book was really clunky and just didn’t flow all that well. There was a lot of information and background coming at me and I struggled to really become invested in the story. Towards the end, the story seemed very melodramatic in the relationship aspect and quite predictable in regard to crime solving. The chemistry of Kristen and Ashleigh did not jump off the page, in my opinion. Not a bad read, but not one I would revisit. 3 stars.
Staff Sergeant Kristen Bailey of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police is working undercover as Toronto PD. The RCMP believes that something nefarious is going on inside the police department. It is Kristen’s job to find out why an officer was murdered while waiting for an ambulance to come. This tangled web of deception is Kristen’s mess to figure out if she wants her coveted promotion to Banff. Kristen is your typical strong alpha type. She is all about the job. Her bed, well really their bed is a revolving door. A hookup is fine but any more than a night of passion forget it. Basically, a total womanizer and she admits to being one multiple times through the course of the story. Oh, and of course she is super hot.
Paramedic Ashleigh Paige is your nice, girl next door. Her heart is as big a Canada, and she is always there to help. She takes a particular shine to Kristen, even though she is rebuffed time and time again. After her one and only relationship with a woman failed miserably, Ashleigh is determined to find a lady who has a good heart and isn’t just looking for sex. She knows her attraction to Kristen is breaking her own rules but she just can’t stay away.
Now did I love it? Confession, this one just didn’t do it for me. I thought the first third of the book was really clunky and just didn’t flow all that well. There was a lot of information and background coming at me and I struggled to really become invested in the story. Towards the end, the story seemed very melodramatic in the relationship aspect and quite predictable in regard to crime solving. The chemistry of Kristen and Ashleigh did not jump off the page, in my opinion. Not a bad read, but not one I would revisit. 3 stars.
July 5, 2017
This is basically an attractive but tediously extended romance plot combined with a sometimes distastefully violent thriller story (the boxing match between Kristen and a really nasty male cop who was much heavier was hard to believe as well as painful to read). Rescue Me led to my thinking again about the whole matter of requesting Advanced Review Copies. The problem is that when you get them, you have a moral obligation to read them all the way through and to write a competent review. Both can be difficult even when you actually liked the books. And when we don’t, they’re an enormous chore, especially for a book as obviously well-intended as this one. Michelle Teichman is never pretentious or silly—the two vices that license release of my inner wasp-nest of snarkies. The description in the blub made this book very appealing to me both for characters and setting. Ashleigh is an EMT—a discipline I enormously respect and admire—and Kristen an undercover police officer, my very favourite kind of main character, in this case a RCMP sergeant disguised as a newly seconded constable to ferret out corruption in the Toronto metropolitan police force. And as these days I read crime fiction as much for the outcome of the relationships as for the solution to the mystery, and Ashleigh and Kristen are such attractive characters, I expected to enjoy this one very much. The problem is not in getting them together; it is that the author creates seemingly endless blocking situations and misunderstandings to keep them apart. Practically right out of the chute there’s enough chemistry between them to make BASF look like a damp squib in comparison. Ashleigh’s problem is that she’s had but one previous relationship with another woman and was badly burned by getting the el dumpo. Kristen has a terrible reputation for turning her lovers over so fast her hook-ups could be timed with a stopwatch. In order to stretch the book out, tho’, the reader has to wait till about half-way through to find out what it is in Kristen’s past that made her so afraid of emotional commitments and to feel herself unworthy of a caring and lasting relationship. And we are exactly 2/3 through the book before their attraction reaches consummation. Then after that we get a thriller ending and find out who the crooked and repulsive Toronto cops are and what they were up to, though by then I didn’t much care. But I had done my duty and finished the whole book.
October 17, 2016
Review of Rescue me by Michelle Teichman
Rescue me is one of those books that you start reading and after a couple of chapters you realise that it's an engaging plot with credible characters all in a well written package. So all you have to do is find a cozy place, sit back and enjoy it. I was glad I started it on a Friday and had the whole weekend to read it as I didn't want to put it down.
This is a fantastic book, definitely one of the best lesbian mystery/thriller that I've read this year. For me, it is so good because it achieves a perfect balance in different aspects. For example, it has an equal amount of romance and action, both well developed in skillfully crafted plot and subplots. The thriller aspect of the book is action-packed, fast paced with twists and surprises that keeps you guessing and turning pages. On the other hand, there is a slow-burn romance building up slowly but progressively, heating up as the characters get more and more involved with each other. The love scenes are seriously hot but can also be tender and romantic. I found that Ms. Teichman has a great talent in describing a kiss, making it highly erotic and almost cinematographic in its depiction. As good as Melissa Brayden, my favourite lesbian romance author.
Overall, I couldn't recommend this book more if you like a combination of thriller and romance in a story. Just a word of warning, some of the action scenes are a bit violent though it didn't affect me much and I'm quite a sensitive person. Now go and read it!
ARC provided by the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Rescue me is one of those books that you start reading and after a couple of chapters you realise that it's an engaging plot with credible characters all in a well written package. So all you have to do is find a cozy place, sit back and enjoy it. I was glad I started it on a Friday and had the whole weekend to read it as I didn't want to put it down.
This is a fantastic book, definitely one of the best lesbian mystery/thriller that I've read this year. For me, it is so good because it achieves a perfect balance in different aspects. For example, it has an equal amount of romance and action, both well developed in skillfully crafted plot and subplots. The thriller aspect of the book is action-packed, fast paced with twists and surprises that keeps you guessing and turning pages. On the other hand, there is a slow-burn romance building up slowly but progressively, heating up as the characters get more and more involved with each other. The love scenes are seriously hot but can also be tender and romantic. I found that Ms. Teichman has a great talent in describing a kiss, making it highly erotic and almost cinematographic in its depiction. As good as Melissa Brayden, my favourite lesbian romance author.
Overall, I couldn't recommend this book more if you like a combination of thriller and romance in a story. Just a word of warning, some of the action scenes are a bit violent though it didn't affect me much and I'm quite a sensitive person. Now go and read it!
ARC provided by the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
February 7, 2017
Finally! Phew.. It's been almost a month since I started this. If only I'd known there was gonna be a slam bang ending to an admittedly not-that-exciting journey, I might have finished it earlier. :)
The thing with lesbian cop/doc stories is you never know what you're gonna get. Of the ones I read this year, Blurred Lines was almost all romance, Trigger was almost all thriller, A Quiet Death was mostly crime procedural, while this book, contains all of the above elements in almost equal measure. Theoretically, that sounds like a good balance, but in reality, the book tended to lurch from one extreme to the other, I'm not really sure what to feel. I think I'm still a little dazed. 8)
RCMP officer Kristen Bailey works undercover as a beat cop to try to solve the murder of a rookie police officer in the same unit. But her efforts don't get anywhere beyond exonerating the most likely suspect, an EMT. Said EMT's new partner Asleigh has the hots for Bailey, and the feeling is mutual. But Bailey is under pressure from her boss to wrap up the case. If she cracks it, she has a good chance at a juicy promotion. If not, its back to her old job. Either way, it's only a matter of time before her next posting takes her halfway around the country. Normally, Bailey wouldn't resist having some fun even if she's on the job. But Ashleigh doesn't fit her idea of 'fun'. Unless, of course, if it can help her crack the case...
The book gets off to an awkward start. Bailey is supposed to be deep undercover, but the way she's written, her personality doesn't strike me as someone who'd succeed, much less excel at it. She stands out too much. Too tall. Too striking. Too Alpha. She exudes too much presence. Imagine James Bond trying to go undercover as a cop and you'll get what I mean. She even has his moves with the ladies. ;) The first third of the book sets up the present situation, and because Bailey doesn't actually get anywhere with the case, it ended up being a frustrating read. At this point, I wasn't seeing the undercover agent I'm being told is the "best they got".
But when the romantic sparks started to ignite, it was easy for me to forget about everything else. I liked how this aspect was developed naturally and gradually, as a course of their work interactions. I liked how 'Bailey' turned into 'Kristen' for Ashleigh, how she saw the caring woman behind the cocky, egotistic mask. (Alas, I wished the author had put a bit of sense into her interchanging use of the cop's first name Kristen and last name Bailey . It was completely random and totally bizarre, if you paid enough attention to it. I actually tried to figure out a pattern but there is none. It happens within paragraphs, and even in the same sentence and I quote (not a spoiler, only hidden because it is NSFW): . If I didn't know better, I'd think there was a threesome, or at least, some exhibitionism going on. ;)
While the romance overall worked for me, there was one element that felt trite and overdone: Bailey's stubborn and endless hang-wringing about why she should not be with Ashleigh (why not talk about it with her?) It's a good thing I loved Ashleigh's go-getter or rather go-get-her attitude ;)
I imagine the best audience for this book would be romance readers. But here's the thing. Look out for a bit of rough action at the end. Even for someone like me who doesn't mind a bit of mayhem, the level of violence was rather jarring. It's not something that should stop one from picking up the book or stop reading altogether, but it's best to be forewarned. Maybe it was worse for me because I always visualize action scenes in my head (like some people do their erotic scenes, which I mostly gloss over). Guns blazing. Bones cracking. Blood everywhere.
Bottom line: As a romance, this is quite enjoyable. But as a crime mystery/thriller, this is just passable. Not because the plot isn't good, because it is. Complex, unpredictable, yet plausible. But Kristen Bailey is just the wrong person for the job. She's a lady James Bond. Like Bond, she's repeatedly outwitted by the bad guys. Doesn't matter though, because she's hot, she's got the moves (both in and out of bed), and she's practically indestructible. (Well, almost. ;)) Her investigative/psychological/people-reading skills are average at best. Her self-preservation skills are (excuse the word) shite. She lets her attraction repeatedly get in the way of her job. How she still manages to crack the case despite all her missteps and her multiple-chapter-length romancing ...you'll just have to read it to find out, lol. But that's okay. As long as you approach the book as a hot but conflicted romance between a cop and a doc (well, not-quite doc, EMT to be exact), spiced up with a nice bit of mystery and some jarring, slam-bang action, you're good to go. You don't even need to check your logic at the door, because the premise of the case actually worked.
3.9 stars
ARC from Ylva
The thing with lesbian cop/doc stories is you never know what you're gonna get. Of the ones I read this year, Blurred Lines was almost all romance, Trigger was almost all thriller, A Quiet Death was mostly crime procedural, while this book, contains all of the above elements in almost equal measure. Theoretically, that sounds like a good balance, but in reality, the book tended to lurch from one extreme to the other, I'm not really sure what to feel. I think I'm still a little dazed. 8)
RCMP officer Kristen Bailey works undercover as a beat cop to try to solve the murder of a rookie police officer in the same unit. But her efforts don't get anywhere beyond exonerating the most likely suspect, an EMT. Said EMT's new partner Asleigh has the hots for Bailey, and the feeling is mutual. But Bailey is under pressure from her boss to wrap up the case. If she cracks it, she has a good chance at a juicy promotion. If not, its back to her old job. Either way, it's only a matter of time before her next posting takes her halfway around the country. Normally, Bailey wouldn't resist having some fun even if she's on the job. But Ashleigh doesn't fit her idea of 'fun'. Unless, of course, if it can help her crack the case...
The book gets off to an awkward start. Bailey is supposed to be deep undercover, but the way she's written, her personality doesn't strike me as someone who'd succeed, much less excel at it. She stands out too much. Too tall. Too striking. Too Alpha. She exudes too much presence. Imagine James Bond trying to go undercover as a cop and you'll get what I mean. She even has his moves with the ladies. ;) The first third of the book sets up the present situation, and because Bailey doesn't actually get anywhere with the case, it ended up being a frustrating read. At this point, I wasn't seeing the undercover agent I'm being told is the "best they got".
But when the romantic sparks started to ignite, it was easy for me to forget about everything else. I liked how this aspect was developed naturally and gradually, as a course of their work interactions. I liked how 'Bailey' turned into 'Kristen' for Ashleigh, how she saw the caring woman behind the cocky, egotistic mask. (Alas, I wished the author had put a bit of sense into her interchanging use of the cop's first name Kristen and last name Bailey . It was completely random and totally bizarre, if you paid enough attention to it. I actually tried to figure out a pattern but there is none. It happens within paragraphs, and even in the same sentence and I quote (not a spoiler, only hidden because it is NSFW): . If I didn't know better, I'd think there was a threesome, or at least, some exhibitionism going on. ;)
While the romance overall worked for me, there was one element that felt trite and overdone: Bailey's stubborn and endless hang-wringing about why she should not be with Ashleigh (why not talk about it with her?) It's a good thing I loved Ashleigh's go-getter or rather go-get-her attitude ;)
I imagine the best audience for this book would be romance readers. But here's the thing. Look out for a bit of rough action at the end. Even for someone like me who doesn't mind a bit of mayhem, the level of violence was rather jarring. It's not something that should stop one from picking up the book or stop reading altogether, but it's best to be forewarned. Maybe it was worse for me because I always visualize action scenes in my head (like some people do their erotic scenes, which I mostly gloss over). Guns blazing. Bones cracking. Blood everywhere.
Bottom line: As a romance, this is quite enjoyable. But as a crime mystery/thriller, this is just passable. Not because the plot isn't good, because it is. Complex, unpredictable, yet plausible. But Kristen Bailey is just the wrong person for the job. She's a lady James Bond. Like Bond, she's repeatedly outwitted by the bad guys. Doesn't matter though, because she's hot, she's got the moves (both in and out of bed), and she's practically indestructible. (Well, almost. ;)) Her investigative/psychological/people-reading skills are average at best. Her self-preservation skills are (excuse the word) shite. She lets her attraction repeatedly get in the way of her job. How she still manages to crack the case despite all her missteps and her multiple-chapter-length romancing ...you'll just have to read it to find out, lol. But that's okay. As long as you approach the book as a hot but conflicted romance between a cop and a doc (well, not-quite doc, EMT to be exact), spiced up with a nice bit of mystery and some jarring, slam-bang action, you're good to go. You don't even need to check your logic at the door, because the premise of the case actually worked.
3.9 stars
ARC from Ylva
October 2, 2016
Rescue Me is such a great book! This is the first book I have read by the author, but I can assure you it will not be my last. I love cop/doc books. While this one was a bit different, and Ashleigh was a paramedic, I really enjoyed it. I could barely put it down to complete things I needed to finish. Ashleigh was by far my favorite character. I enjoyed her honesty, and her sensitive and caring manner. While Kristin isn’t overly original I still enjoyed her character very much. Near the beginning of the book I wasn’t sure about her, but as the book progresses you can’t help but fall a little in love with Kristen’s character. The romance was really well written, the sex scenes were hot, and the characters likeable. Just as a romance this book is fantastic. As a bonus you get this whole mystery dynamic with officer deaths, drug deals gone bad, and dirty cops. A book that keeps you glued to your favorite reading spot, that has romance, mystery, sexy characters… in my opinion an author couldn’t do any better than that. Going on my favorites list, and I hope to read many more books from this author in the future.
ARC provided by YLVA Publishing for honest review.
ARC provided by YLVA Publishing for honest review.
March 13, 2017
3.5 rounded to a 4. This one was a little tough for me to read. The premise is that the police and the paramedics don't get along. Not just a friendly rivalry, but a police officer died and the other police think that one of the paramedics purposely killed them. The hatred fear of each department was hard for me to wrap my head around because I work in law enforcement. I'm used to good natured ribbing among police, fire, EMS etc. Sometimes complaints that one agency doesn't work as hard as the other, but no matter what the agencies depend on one another and know without a doubt the others always have their backs when push comes to shove. So, it was a little bit of a struggle for me to accept the main premise.
Teichman writes well. I liked the 2 leads and their chemistry seemed to build naturally. The murder is not just a back burner issue. It's a genuine mystery. The sex, when it comes, is very good. So, overall not my favorite cup of tea just based on the topic, however it's a well written book with believable characters and an interesting mystery. I'd definitely read another book by Ms. Teichman. I'd just hope for a new premise. :)
Netgalley ARC received for an honest review.
Teichman writes well. I liked the 2 leads and their chemistry seemed to build naturally. The murder is not just a back burner issue. It's a genuine mystery. The sex, when it comes, is very good. So, overall not my favorite cup of tea just based on the topic, however it's a well written book with believable characters and an interesting mystery. I'd definitely read another book by Ms. Teichman. I'd just hope for a new premise. :)
Netgalley ARC received for an honest review.
July 11, 2018
I really enjoyed this read. I'm not someone who reads a bunch of murder mystery solving type books. I'm more of a romance hea type reader but I did like this one. I won't lie, I skipped to the last few chapters cause I was curious who done it. Anyway, I enjoyed reading about the MCs and their relationship. I will say that secondary characters in Ashleigh's life seemed to fall away really quick. We never hear about her friends after that one night and I would have liked to have a chapter dedicated to the hospital time before the epilogue...oops I guess that's a slight spoiler, sorry. Overall, I liked it and give it an easy 4.5*
July 22, 2021
I enjoyed this book, though moved past a Lesrom into a full blown goodies vs baddies thriller. Brought into the main characters- but not one to read just before lights out!☺
July 16, 2018
*ARC provided by the Publisher for an honest review *
It is very hard to review this book because
while it is very well written and the characters are well thought out, there is no one thing about it that makes me say, "Wow, this is good!", and that for me makes it really difficult because it is easier to understand why you like something if you can understand what you like about it.
I have read The Space Between and I absolutely loved it from start to finish but with this book the author has created a comfortable book, something that is just well rounded and very hard to dislike.
I took longer with this book than I normally do but it is only because I went at a very leisurely pace and although that may sound like a bad thing, it really isn't because it is the type of book that you can put down but you don't just forget about it, even if you aren't chomping at the bit to finish it.
This is also a crime thriller, and I think that part of it on its own was also done well. Although I was getting really irritated with Kristen and her 'poor me' routine I still enjoyed her relationship with Ashleigh and I like that Ashleigh didn't give in to her cold exterior and instead decided to get what she wanted.
Both characters had their flaws but ultimately the finished product was one I did not regret reading at all. 4.4stars
It is very hard to review this book because
while it is very well written and the characters are well thought out, there is no one thing about it that makes me say, "Wow, this is good!", and that for me makes it really difficult because it is easier to understand why you like something if you can understand what you like about it.
I have read The Space Between and I absolutely loved it from start to finish but with this book the author has created a comfortable book, something that is just well rounded and very hard to dislike.
I took longer with this book than I normally do but it is only because I went at a very leisurely pace and although that may sound like a bad thing, it really isn't because it is the type of book that you can put down but you don't just forget about it, even if you aren't chomping at the bit to finish it.
This is also a crime thriller, and I think that part of it on its own was also done well. Although I was getting really irritated with Kristen and her 'poor me' routine I still enjoyed her relationship with Ashleigh and I like that Ashleigh didn't give in to her cold exterior and instead decided to get what she wanted.
Both characters had their flaws but ultimately the finished product was one I did not regret reading at all. 4.4stars
October 31, 2016
Detailed score: 4.0
Crimance is usually a turn off for me but the reviews for this books were so good I had to pick it up.
And I'm very glad it did.
Being a romance fan, I like that the romance and character development got so much time -- i find they usually take second fiddle to the crime plot. Having said that, I don't think those who enjoy the crime aspects will be disappointed.
Another reviewer commented on the slightly unrealistic 'peak' scene and the slightly jarring jump to the '18 months later' epilogue-- and I totally agree with these sentiments. Not enough to wreck the book... or even lose rating points but definitely for the strongest part of the book.
Overall this was a real page turner and one I think pretty much everyone (who enjoys lesrom / lesfic) would enjoy.
Crimance is usually a turn off for me but the reviews for this books were so good I had to pick it up.
And I'm very glad it did.
Being a romance fan, I like that the romance and character development got so much time -- i find they usually take second fiddle to the crime plot. Having said that, I don't think those who enjoy the crime aspects will be disappointed.
Another reviewer commented on the slightly unrealistic 'peak' scene and the slightly jarring jump to the '18 months later' epilogue-- and I totally agree with these sentiments. Not enough to wreck the book... or even lose rating points but definitely for the strongest part of the book.
Overall this was a real page turner and one I think pretty much everyone (who enjoys lesrom / lesfic) would enjoy.
October 14, 2016
*Book received from NetGalley and Ylva Publishing in return for a fair review*
This is one of those books that is well written, the mystery is specially well written wisely guiding and misguiding the reader in the search of the murderer but the royce side of this story was too predictable for me.
At the end, the main problem I had with this book was that it lacked emotion. it did not moved me enough.
This is one of those books that is well written, the mystery is specially well written wisely guiding and misguiding the reader in the search of the murderer but the royce side of this story was too predictable for me.
At the end, the main problem I had with this book was that it lacked emotion. it did not moved me enough.
October 21, 2016
3.5 stars
One thing I know for sure when picking up a book from Ylva publishing is that it’s going to be well polished. This one was no exception, however it’s the first time I’ve come across a book set in Canada with what I call Brit spelling – colour, flavour, kilometers, etc. Perhaps it was a regional thing?
The plot flowed well and the characters were engaging. The story is told in third person and dual POV which allows the reader to get to know the leading characters, Kristen and Ashleigh, really well.
Due to a murder, which appeared to be carried out by EMTs, there’s a huge rift between Officers and Paramedics. Therefore, when an undercover cop falls for a paramedic, the supposed enemy, it makes for an interesting combination.
Early on, I had an inkling of who the villains were. I was right on one front and taken by surprise on another. The mystery behind the investigation alone will keep readers flipping the pages.
Ashleigh and Kristen make a great couple. Although I will say, the narration constantly changing from first name to surname took me a long time to get used to. In fact, I don’t think I actually did. There would be a scene with Ashleigh and Kristen and then it would mention something about Bailey. For a minute I’d be on the back foot wondering who the hell Bailey was before remembering Bailey and Kristen were one and the same. Others might not have an issue with such. There are a few adult scenes that compliment rather than overwhelm this story.
The showdown wasn’t pretty. It required a bit of suspension of belief on my part, due to the heroine’s heinous injuries, but then again people have been known to carry out mighty feats with adrenaline pumping through their veins. And, as soon as everything comes to a head, the story jumps ahead to the epilogue, without much mention of the horrendous fallout that surely ensued.
Even though I found the eighteen-month jump too big of a leap from where it left off, I was so happy for Kristen’s brother and sister-in-law. A couple who played wonderful supporting characters. But I would’ve liked to know more about the relationship between Ashleigh and her parents, given the story started out with her mother’s issues with her daughter being a lesbian.
All in all, this is a great romp if you don’t over think it. Something I freely admit I tend to do.
Copy provided in exchange for an honest review
One thing I know for sure when picking up a book from Ylva publishing is that it’s going to be well polished. This one was no exception, however it’s the first time I’ve come across a book set in Canada with what I call Brit spelling – colour, flavour, kilometers, etc. Perhaps it was a regional thing?
The plot flowed well and the characters were engaging. The story is told in third person and dual POV which allows the reader to get to know the leading characters, Kristen and Ashleigh, really well.
Due to a murder, which appeared to be carried out by EMTs, there’s a huge rift between Officers and Paramedics. Therefore, when an undercover cop falls for a paramedic, the supposed enemy, it makes for an interesting combination.
Early on, I had an inkling of who the villains were. I was right on one front and taken by surprise on another. The mystery behind the investigation alone will keep readers flipping the pages.
Ashleigh and Kristen make a great couple. Although I will say, the narration constantly changing from first name to surname took me a long time to get used to. In fact, I don’t think I actually did. There would be a scene with Ashleigh and Kristen and then it would mention something about Bailey. For a minute I’d be on the back foot wondering who the hell Bailey was before remembering Bailey and Kristen were one and the same. Others might not have an issue with such. There are a few adult scenes that compliment rather than overwhelm this story.
The showdown wasn’t pretty. It required a bit of suspension of belief on my part, due to the heroine’s heinous injuries, but then again people have been known to carry out mighty feats with adrenaline pumping through their veins. And, as soon as everything comes to a head, the story jumps ahead to the epilogue, without much mention of the horrendous fallout that surely ensued.
Even though I found the eighteen-month jump too big of a leap from where it left off, I was so happy for Kristen’s brother and sister-in-law. A couple who played wonderful supporting characters. But I would’ve liked to know more about the relationship between Ashleigh and her parents, given the story started out with her mother’s issues with her daughter being a lesbian.
All in all, this is a great romp if you don’t over think it. Something I freely admit I tend to do.
Copy provided in exchange for an honest review
October 14, 2016
** I was given a copy from Ylva Publishing for an honest review.**
This book really didn't do it for me.
Not sure if it was the exaggeration of the almost Capulet and Montague dynamic of cops and EMTs or if the entire romance was way too over the top and dramatic for my taste, then again, maybe it was a combination of both.
Very likely it was a combination of both.
Now to be honest, I get it why there will be people who will enjoy this book a lot more than I did, and that's cool, to each his own. But for me, the melodramatic, bordering on theatrical dialogues and romance in general, just didn't worked. Well, it kind of did actually, but very likely not as the author intended, as I ended up finding the whole deal a lot more funny then emotional.
As for the main character, we have Kristen and Ashleigh. Now, Kristen here is clearly the Alpha female. In fact, she's so Alpha that I bet all the other Alphas tremble at her Alphaness. She's alluring as a vampire from a Anne Rice novel, she's tormented and brooding as Batman, she's Agent 069 on a direct competition with James Bond for the title of the biggest womanizer in history...
What about Ashleigh then? What part is left for her to play here? Obviously the part of the Beta female - the sensitive, emotional and fragile Beta - just because, you know... that's how all good relationship dynamics needs to be, right?
Yeah, maybe not.
I suppose I did enjoyed the Detective Fiction part of it a bit more then the rest, however I found it funny how Kristen seemed to have aspects of her relationship with Ashleigh brought up and discussed at, what seemed to me, the most possible ill-timed moments ever. It almost felt like the writer was self-sabotaging her own attempt to create this suspenseful crime thriller atmosphere by constantly dumping all this brooding-being/tortured-soul inner monologue or outer dialogue fragments on it. It sort of ended up disconnecting me from the suspense as well as the romance part of the book.
As I kept on reading, I did try enjoying the story, but the truth remains that it simply did not happened...
On a final note, I'd have to add that the sex scenes are thoroughly depicted and, I'd say, well done. So if that's an aspect that it's important in the books you read, I think you'll probably enjoy this. Doesn't happen all the time, but when it does, it really doesn't shy away from taking it's time and being very explicit.
And that's about it.
So 2.5 stars in my opinionated but honest analysis.
This book really didn't do it for me.
Not sure if it was the exaggeration of the almost Capulet and Montague dynamic of cops and EMTs or if the entire romance was way too over the top and dramatic for my taste, then again, maybe it was a combination of both.
Very likely it was a combination of both.
Now to be honest, I get it why there will be people who will enjoy this book a lot more than I did, and that's cool, to each his own. But for me, the melodramatic, bordering on theatrical dialogues and romance in general, just didn't worked. Well, it kind of did actually, but very likely not as the author intended, as I ended up finding the whole deal a lot more funny then emotional.
As for the main character, we have Kristen and Ashleigh. Now, Kristen here is clearly the Alpha female. In fact, she's so Alpha that I bet all the other Alphas tremble at her Alphaness. She's alluring as a vampire from a Anne Rice novel, she's tormented and brooding as Batman, she's Agent 069 on a direct competition with James Bond for the title of the biggest womanizer in history...
What about Ashleigh then? What part is left for her to play here? Obviously the part of the Beta female - the sensitive, emotional and fragile Beta - just because, you know... that's how all good relationship dynamics needs to be, right?
Yeah, maybe not.
I suppose I did enjoyed the Detective Fiction part of it a bit more then the rest, however I found it funny how Kristen seemed to have aspects of her relationship with Ashleigh brought up and discussed at, what seemed to me, the most possible ill-timed moments ever. It almost felt like the writer was self-sabotaging her own attempt to create this suspenseful crime thriller atmosphere by constantly dumping all this brooding-being/tortured-soul inner monologue or outer dialogue fragments on it. It sort of ended up disconnecting me from the suspense as well as the romance part of the book.
As I kept on reading, I did try enjoying the story, but the truth remains that it simply did not happened...
On a final note, I'd have to add that the sex scenes are thoroughly depicted and, I'd say, well done. So if that's an aspect that it's important in the books you read, I think you'll probably enjoy this. Doesn't happen all the time, but when it does, it really doesn't shy away from taking it's time and being very explicit.
And that's about it.
So 2.5 stars in my opinionated but honest analysis.
October 23, 2016
*The copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
Now, this is the thriller exactly to my liking. I loved the plot, the characters in it, even the minor ones, the supporting ones; I loved the chemistry between Kristen and Ashleigh, the pace of their relationship development... I wish I was able to find more thriller - romance books like this one.
Now, this is the thriller exactly to my liking. I loved the plot, the characters in it, even the minor ones, the supporting ones; I loved the chemistry between Kristen and Ashleigh, the pace of their relationship development... I wish I was able to find more thriller - romance books like this one.
October 5, 2016
I truly enjoyed this because loving someone you know who is bad for you but you see the good in them and know they are worth the risk.
May 27, 2024
Thoroughly enjoyed this. The chemistry between MCs is palpable, story is well-paced and believable.
Read
February 7, 2017DNF at 50%
I honestly hate to DNF it.
One of my resolutions for the New Year was to have as few DNF books as possible, best not to have such books at all. It does not mean though that I plan to torture myself with books I don’t like but only that I will TRY better to choose MY books.
And here is the consequence: I will TRY to avoid F/F Romance books. It is just not my cuppa.
It pained me to say it, looking at you with my rainbow -colored eyes, and thinking that we, girls, have to stick together, but I assure you that my not liking FF has nothing to do with my position and my attitudes. I’m a passionate supporter of LGBT rights, and I do and will do it where I can, with all my heart. But I’m a straight woman, and I just don’t enjoy FF books where the main focus is set on relationships and sexual tension. However, I read and liked some lesbian literary fiction books.
Rescue Me is not a bad book and it is not bad written, but I'm not a target audience for it. Maybe if the mystery had convinced me, I could have finished it, but the mystery didn't grab me, and I had problems with some twists.
Like:
1) Does a 1,5 year old dead body stink?! Or how can it be partly liquid?!
2) How can police suspects the local ambulance service to be involved in the crime case when it is clear that a real ambulance car arrived first LATER? So it can't be THIS local ambulance service, right?
3) How can THIS alcoholic drugged woman be a mother of the missing female police officer?! And why nobody knew it?!
I think I could forgive a MM Romance novel many irregularities, if I like the main characters and if I enjoy the interaction between them, but unfortunately I don’t do it in case of FF Romance.
So, it is my first DNF book this year, and I hope the last one.
I think, had I finished it, I could have rated it between 2 and 3 stars.
***Copy provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review***
December 4, 2016
This book really drew me in. I have to say that I started to see where things were going and thought that the story was really predictable, but the writing was so good that I didn't care. I was so wrong. Every time I thought I knew exactly where this story was going, Teichman threw in a curve ball that I wasn't expecting and took it in a totally different direction than I thought I was headed. Bailey is totally what one would expect of an undercover officer totally focused on her career. She's willing to do anything to close her case, and that includes sleeping with women who she thinks can help her out. Her love life is non-existent, and at first we believe it's because she's so focused on her job and on promotion that she just doesn't want anything deeper. The truth is so much more tragic, and delivers one of those afore-mentioned curve balls.
The case, finding out who murdered a rookie cop in Toronto, seems like it's going nowhere. Police and paramedics are at each other's throats, and tensions keep getting higher and higher. Ashleigh is a pretty new paramedic, not even hired at the time of the murder, and she and Bailey have some pretty explosive chemistry going on. Ashleigh keeps telling herself to stay away from Bailey, because Bailey is exactly the kind of woman her broke her heart in her first attempt at a lesbian relationship. But both of them feel the pull.
The case becomes a big part of what's going on between them, as Bailey has to keep secrets, and Ashleigh keeps trying to figure out what's going on with Bailey. And Teichman has reserved the biggest curveball for the explosive finish. That was definitely a ride and a half. In all the book was surprising, fast-paced, and hard to put down. A definite recommendation from me.
I obtained a copy of this book from Ylva in order to review it.
The case, finding out who murdered a rookie cop in Toronto, seems like it's going nowhere. Police and paramedics are at each other's throats, and tensions keep getting higher and higher. Ashleigh is a pretty new paramedic, not even hired at the time of the murder, and she and Bailey have some pretty explosive chemistry going on. Ashleigh keeps telling herself to stay away from Bailey, because Bailey is exactly the kind of woman her broke her heart in her first attempt at a lesbian relationship. But both of them feel the pull.
The case becomes a big part of what's going on between them, as Bailey has to keep secrets, and Ashleigh keeps trying to figure out what's going on with Bailey. And Teichman has reserved the biggest curveball for the explosive finish. That was definitely a ride and a half. In all the book was surprising, fast-paced, and hard to put down. A definite recommendation from me.
I obtained a copy of this book from Ylva in order to review it.
October 16, 2016
"Rescue Me" is a police mystery focusing on the murder/disappearance of two Toronto police officers, early in their career. A video, taken with the phone of one of the officers, seems to indicate that a paramedic team were involved in his murder. The local police are getting nowhere, so enter an undercover mountie, Kristen Bailey, to investigate what's going on. She's finding it tough going, and things have degenerated to the point that police officers are refusing treatment from paramedics. As she works on her investigation, she meets Ashleigh Paige, a paramedic new to the role, who's not caught up in the blame game going on between the police and paramedics.
I thought the mystery was great, and even kept me guessing, which was nice. The final scenes felt a bit over the top, with Kristen coming over a bit like an invincible superhero by the wrap-up (there's no way she should have been on her feet through to the end of the showdown).
The romance was well written, I enjoyed the characters and the story, and would definitely recommend this if cops, docs and lesbians are things you enjoy :)
ARC received from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
I thought the mystery was great, and even kept me guessing, which was nice. The final scenes felt a bit over the top, with Kristen coming over a bit like an invincible superhero by the wrap-up (there's no way she should have been on her feet through to the end of the showdown).
The romance was well written, I enjoyed the characters and the story, and would definitely recommend this if cops, docs and lesbians are things you enjoy :)
ARC received from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
June 2, 2020
DNF at 30%. Going nowhere fast and no real spark from the characters or the mystery angle.
The romance angle was colder than the dead end lives these people seem to live.
This did not spark joy. So I had to get rid of it.
The romance angle was colder than the dead end lives these people seem to live.
This did not spark joy. So I had to get rid of it.
October 24, 2016
3.5 Stars
Staff Sergeant Kristen Bailey of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police is working undercover in the Toronto Police to find the killer of two junior police officers. Something is definitely fishy, but finding out what happened isn’t coming easily in the secretive group.
To make matters worse, at one of the scenes the victim unwittingly filmed the start of his murder and it places the local paramedics squarely on the list of suspects. The tension between the two services is playing havoc with everyone, including new paramedic Ashleigh Paige.
Ashleigh is still working out how to be a lesbian, and how to adapt to emergency services in Toronto rather than in African war zones. While she is uncertain about a lot of things in her life, she is completely sure that her attraction to Bailey.
Bailey is also trying to resist falling for Ashleigh, sure that her own past will catch up and obliterate any sense of decency she has. Avoiding Ashleigh sounds like a good plan, until she realises that she needs Ashleigh to track down the killer.
This is a mixture of crime and romance, although it is heavier on the crime part of the story. In many ways, that is the better told part of the narrative, although the first act takes a little longer to get through than perhaps it needed.
Bailey is a fairly standard strong female character with knowledge, experience and integrity. She also plays the field, avoiding any commitments, terrified that her horrible past will sabotage any potential relationship. She is fun, if a little standard in her expression of this sort of character. Ashleigh is a bit of a wimp and could do with a bit more bite to make her a bit more solid as a character. Their interactions seemed a bit one sided, which is less interesting for me as a reader. I did like the dialogue though, and thought Teichman did a good job with this. It was enough to give a sense of character without being too descriptive or detailed.
It is a tough gig to satisfactorily combine two genres, and Teichman nearly makes it. I gather this is her second book, and I can see that she has talent and will be worth following. I look forward to seeing what she does with her next book.
Advanced reading copy provided by NetGalley for an honest review.
Staff Sergeant Kristen Bailey of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police is working undercover in the Toronto Police to find the killer of two junior police officers. Something is definitely fishy, but finding out what happened isn’t coming easily in the secretive group.
To make matters worse, at one of the scenes the victim unwittingly filmed the start of his murder and it places the local paramedics squarely on the list of suspects. The tension between the two services is playing havoc with everyone, including new paramedic Ashleigh Paige.
Ashleigh is still working out how to be a lesbian, and how to adapt to emergency services in Toronto rather than in African war zones. While she is uncertain about a lot of things in her life, she is completely sure that her attraction to Bailey.
Bailey is also trying to resist falling for Ashleigh, sure that her own past will catch up and obliterate any sense of decency she has. Avoiding Ashleigh sounds like a good plan, until she realises that she needs Ashleigh to track down the killer.
This is a mixture of crime and romance, although it is heavier on the crime part of the story. In many ways, that is the better told part of the narrative, although the first act takes a little longer to get through than perhaps it needed.
Bailey is a fairly standard strong female character with knowledge, experience and integrity. She also plays the field, avoiding any commitments, terrified that her horrible past will sabotage any potential relationship. She is fun, if a little standard in her expression of this sort of character. Ashleigh is a bit of a wimp and could do with a bit more bite to make her a bit more solid as a character. Their interactions seemed a bit one sided, which is less interesting for me as a reader. I did like the dialogue though, and thought Teichman did a good job with this. It was enough to give a sense of character without being too descriptive or detailed.
It is a tough gig to satisfactorily combine two genres, and Teichman nearly makes it. I gather this is her second book, and I can see that she has talent and will be worth following. I look forward to seeing what she does with her next book.
Advanced reading copy provided by NetGalley for an honest review.
October 16, 2016
I love a good romance story and I love a good crime thriller. This book works as a good romance but fails in the crime thriller aspect.
Without wanting to give spoilers, I will mention three things that failed for me in the crime thriller aspect:
1. Dead bodies do not smell after 18 months. They are desiccated. There are no bodily fluids left.
2. An undercover cop would not take anyone involved in the undercover case to meet her family. Her cover would be too easily blown.
3. It is not conceivable that Kristen would be unaware of the identity of the missing cop’s mother. It would be in her file. If she hadn’t put that together after nearly three months’ investigation, she wasn’t much of an investigator.
Also, I am completely sick of novels and films that show its characters sustaining injuries that would kill or cripple in real life yet they get up and fight as if they were merely scratched. So, I wasn’t taken with the book as a crime thriller.
It fares better as a romance though. Too often, the obstacles keeping the lovers apart are unconvincing and contrived. Here, Kristen has very good reason not to get involved with Ashleigh. The chemistry between the two worked well and the characterisation of Kristen, while somewhat stereotypical, actually works well in the context of undercover cop.
That does not mean that Kristen is totally likable, though. She has her flaws – the major one is using her charms to seduce and bed witnesses in order to obtain information regardless of any hurt that may result.
If you can overlook the book’s logical failings then you will probably enjoy it. Unfortunately, I found it ultimately unsatisfying.
Acknowledgement: I was given a copy of this book to read by Ylva Publishing in exchange for an honest review.
Without wanting to give spoilers, I will mention three things that failed for me in the crime thriller aspect:
1. Dead bodies do not smell after 18 months. They are desiccated. There are no bodily fluids left.
2. An undercover cop would not take anyone involved in the undercover case to meet her family. Her cover would be too easily blown.
3. It is not conceivable that Kristen would be unaware of the identity of the missing cop’s mother. It would be in her file. If she hadn’t put that together after nearly three months’ investigation, she wasn’t much of an investigator.
Also, I am completely sick of novels and films that show its characters sustaining injuries that would kill or cripple in real life yet they get up and fight as if they were merely scratched. So, I wasn’t taken with the book as a crime thriller.
It fares better as a romance though. Too often, the obstacles keeping the lovers apart are unconvincing and contrived. Here, Kristen has very good reason not to get involved with Ashleigh. The chemistry between the two worked well and the characterisation of Kristen, while somewhat stereotypical, actually works well in the context of undercover cop.
That does not mean that Kristen is totally likable, though. She has her flaws – the major one is using her charms to seduce and bed witnesses in order to obtain information regardless of any hurt that may result.
If you can overlook the book’s logical failings then you will probably enjoy it. Unfortunately, I found it ultimately unsatisfying.
Acknowledgement: I was given a copy of this book to read by Ylva Publishing in exchange for an honest review.
October 4, 2016
Who doesn't love a woman in uniform? Who doesn't love two?
Kristen is an undercover RCMP officer in the Toronto Police Department where she is investigating the suspicious deaths of two Rookie officers. Ashleigh is a new paramedic and discovers early on that there's a feud between Toronto PD and EMTs. She and Kristen clash time after time before falling into a tentative friendship. But, will their love story prevail through the most important investigation of Kristen's career?
This book was truly a perfect balance of action and romance. The action scenes were snappy, great visuals without getting too bogged down with details. And, the romance fell into place naturally between these two women. Their chemistry was off the charts! Fabulous!
I loved Kristen's brother as a secondary character, he and his wife really came to life on the page. I felt like I could just go and drive up to his cottage in Muskoka. I did feel that maybe the secondary characters on Ashleighs side were a little weaker - her parents and her friends were introduced early on but we never really saw them again.
On a more personal note, I loved that Ashleigh is LITERALLY the same vegetarian I am and it was amazing to find a kindred spirit in her in this novel. And damn, am I ever a proud Canadian to see Toronto and Muskoka and Banff represented in this wonderful novel.
I loved the romance, I loved the action, I loved that this took place in my home country. The writing was also incredible - visual and thrilling.
I am huge a Michelle L. Teichman fan now and I am looking forward to reading her other books!
I received an ARC from YLVA in exchange for an honest review.
Kristen is an undercover RCMP officer in the Toronto Police Department where she is investigating the suspicious deaths of two Rookie officers. Ashleigh is a new paramedic and discovers early on that there's a feud between Toronto PD and EMTs. She and Kristen clash time after time before falling into a tentative friendship. But, will their love story prevail through the most important investigation of Kristen's career?
This book was truly a perfect balance of action and romance. The action scenes were snappy, great visuals without getting too bogged down with details. And, the romance fell into place naturally between these two women. Their chemistry was off the charts! Fabulous!
I loved Kristen's brother as a secondary character, he and his wife really came to life on the page. I felt like I could just go and drive up to his cottage in Muskoka. I did feel that maybe the secondary characters on Ashleighs side were a little weaker - her parents and her friends were introduced early on but we never really saw them again.
On a more personal note, I loved that Ashleigh is LITERALLY the same vegetarian I am and it was amazing to find a kindred spirit in her in this novel. And damn, am I ever a proud Canadian to see Toronto and Muskoka and Banff represented in this wonderful novel.
I loved the romance, I loved the action, I loved that this took place in my home country. The writing was also incredible - visual and thrilling.
I am huge a Michelle L. Teichman fan now and I am looking forward to reading her other books!
I received an ARC from YLVA in exchange for an honest review.
September 30, 2016
Rescue Me was a great read. The characters were strong but sweet; Ashleigh’s vulnerability around her personal life really came through, but I never doubted her internal strength and capabilities. Kristen came across natural in her role as a cop and I found myself quickly warming to her. Despite the tough exterior, she so obviously had the empathy, warmth and compassion that can be sometimes missing from cop characters in an attempt to be gritty. The Cop/Paramedic dynamic gave the story the excitement, action and suspense I always enjoy with a romance. I thought the back story of the missing officers was intertwined and paced very well throughout the investigation, and a little character twist toward the end left me pleasantly surprised as I didn’t see it coming. The romance wasn’t rushed; it created the same level of anticipation as the suspense element and moved along well with the story until both ultimately collided. The author has clearly done her homework so that although not a traditional police procedural or medical drama, I knew both these roles were written true to life. Setting it in Toronto was also real treat for me, as a Brit who’s always wanted to visit. I found myself rooting for the two main characters and the pages kept turning in my anticipation to uncover the truth. Well written throughout, it’s the little details make all the difference and whisk you away with the characters. That’s what separates a good book from a great one.
October 22, 2016
3.5 stars
This is the second book I've read by Teichman, the first being the YA book The Space Between, which I liked but was drastically different due to the characters of that book being so young (9th graders), so when I saw this book was being released I grew very excited because I know she's a talented writer and I'm obsessed with crime novels.
The storyline is interesting and the characters are likeable, but for some reason I got a bit stuck at the 60% point because I felt a bit unconvinced about the relationship between the two women and the mystery/investigation wasn't being explored fully, so I just felt burnt out. But I decided to continue on after encouragement from other reviewers on Goodreads and I'm glad I did. It storyline does pick up as the characters become more connected and we start learning more about whats been going on in terms of the mystery/investigation.
I think it's worth reading as it is fun and interesting, I think it was lacking a bit of depth and the foundation of the romance could have been established more effectively. The superficiality of the romance was really evident to me as at the time as I had just finished The Blind Side of Love (V2) which has such an amazing romance (so that could be why I'm being pretty harsh on this book), so this felt a little barren to me but I still enjoyed reading it and would recommend it.
*An ARC was given to me by YLVA Publishing, for a honest review.
This is the second book I've read by Teichman, the first being the YA book The Space Between, which I liked but was drastically different due to the characters of that book being so young (9th graders), so when I saw this book was being released I grew very excited because I know she's a talented writer and I'm obsessed with crime novels.
The storyline is interesting and the characters are likeable, but for some reason I got a bit stuck at the 60% point because I felt a bit unconvinced about the relationship between the two women and the mystery/investigation wasn't being explored fully, so I just felt burnt out. But I decided to continue on after encouragement from other reviewers on Goodreads and I'm glad I did. It storyline does pick up as the characters become more connected and we start learning more about whats been going on in terms of the mystery/investigation.
I think it's worth reading as it is fun and interesting, I think it was lacking a bit of depth and the foundation of the romance could have been established more effectively. The superficiality of the romance was really evident to me as at the time as I had just finished The Blind Side of Love (V2) which has such an amazing romance (so that could be why I'm being pretty harsh on this book), so this felt a little barren to me but I still enjoyed reading it and would recommend it.
*An ARC was given to me by YLVA Publishing, for a honest review.
October 3, 2016
I received an ARC from Ylva Publishing in exchange for an honest review.
This story is a pretty solid entry in the mystery/crime thriller field of lesfic. I enjoyed the story- it moved at a pretty good clip and balanced the development of the plot with the romance well. I thought the cop character, Kristen, was pretty predictable- tough but gorgeous exterior and seemingly emotionally unavailable, but with a heart of gold- which is not to say that I didn't like the character, because I did. Her paramedic love interest, Ashleigh, on the other hand, was a little too immature and under developed as a personality for my liking. Several elements are introduced to flesh out the Ashleigh character, but none of them are really followed-up on very well. Maybe the Kristen character works better because she fits the archetype of the hot lesbian cop celebrated in numerous lesfic novels. Paramedic Ashleigh vacillates between being naive, nearly virginal, and admittedly "hero-worshiping" Kristen to challenging Kristen's self-sacrificing attempts to push her away with a degree of courage, confidence, and insight that struck me as incongruous. All of that being said, it is a good quality story- it is exciting and sexy. Anyone who enjoys crime thriller/mystery stories with a healthy dose of sexy romance between ladies in uniform should not hesitate to check out this book. 3.5 Stars
This story is a pretty solid entry in the mystery/crime thriller field of lesfic. I enjoyed the story- it moved at a pretty good clip and balanced the development of the plot with the romance well. I thought the cop character, Kristen, was pretty predictable- tough but gorgeous exterior and seemingly emotionally unavailable, but with a heart of gold- which is not to say that I didn't like the character, because I did. Her paramedic love interest, Ashleigh, on the other hand, was a little too immature and under developed as a personality for my liking. Several elements are introduced to flesh out the Ashleigh character, but none of them are really followed-up on very well. Maybe the Kristen character works better because she fits the archetype of the hot lesbian cop celebrated in numerous lesfic novels. Paramedic Ashleigh vacillates between being naive, nearly virginal, and admittedly "hero-worshiping" Kristen to challenging Kristen's self-sacrificing attempts to push her away with a degree of courage, confidence, and insight that struck me as incongruous. All of that being said, it is a good quality story- it is exciting and sexy. Anyone who enjoys crime thriller/mystery stories with a healthy dose of sexy romance between ladies in uniform should not hesitate to check out this book. 3.5 Stars
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