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Cancun #1
Christmas in Cancun
Busy building a new career with his catamaran company, former SEAL Jack Girard had all but forgotten about his grandfather’s quest to find the golden Mayan goddess statues until his brother’s beautiful widow, Jillian, and adorable daughter, Addison, arrive in Cancun with the research materials. His need to complete the family quest is almost as strong as his desire for Jillian.
Between raising her daughter alone and finishing her doctorate in Mayan anthropology, Jillian doesn’t have time for a man in her life. Although, after mourning her husband’s murder for two years, she’s ready for a man her bed.
An underwater Virgin Mary statue and centuries-old manuscripts lead the two of them through the Mayan Riviera and directly into danger.
During steamy Caribbean nights together, will they develop the ability to move on and discover the real treasure isn't gold?
Between raising her daughter alone and finishing her doctorate in Mayan anthropology, Jillian doesn’t have time for a man in her life. Although, after mourning her husband’s murder for two years, she’s ready for a man her bed.
An underwater Virgin Mary statue and centuries-old manuscripts lead the two of them through the Mayan Riviera and directly into danger.
During steamy Caribbean nights together, will they develop the ability to move on and discover the real treasure isn't gold?
212 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 1, 2014
45 people are currently reading
273 people want to read
About the author
KaLyn Cooper
60 books525 followersKaLyn Cooper’s romances blend fact and fiction with blazing heat and heart-pounding suspense. Twenty-two years as a military wife has shown KaLyn the world, and thirty years in PR taught her that fact can be stranger than fiction. She leaves it up to the reader to separate truth from imagination. She, her husband, and bird dog live in Tennessee on a micro-plantation filled with gardens, cattle, and quail. When she’s not writing, she’s at the shooting range or on the river.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
November 13, 2014
Beautiful locations and the search for lost treasure make up this romantic suspense between two unlikely people.
Jack Girard and his family have a long history of treasure hunting in Cancun. I liked how the author blended both the more ancient traditions of their Mayan ancestry along with current day traditions. Jack is a former Navy SEAL who is now running a charter catamaran company along with many of his former teammates. Along with that he also dabbles in dives looking for the treasures his grandfather was sure were out there. Two years ago he lost his brother to a drive by shooting. He was deployed at the time and was unable to make it back for the funeral or to meet his brother’s widow who was pregnant at the time. Two years later all of his family is at their estate in Cancun for the holidays and his brother’s widow has decided to come with her daughter.
Jillian was devastated when her husband died but she had to carry on and raise her daughter. She also decided she was going to finish her doctorate which was something her and her husband was both passionate about. Before he died he believed he had found the location of a treasure that Jack’s family had been looking for generations for.
What the two didn’t realize is there were also others looking for the same treasure and they would go to any means to get it which puts both of their lives in danger.
Jack and Jillian are attracted to each other right off the bat and Jack really falls in love with his little niece but due to her being his brother’s widow he’s reluctant at first to act on his feelings but its not long before these two give in. We get to meet quite a few of Jack’s old teammates who I am wondering if will get their own stories in the future. Jack’s divorced sister and her two kids also played a part in this book and her story is left with a little bit of a cliffhanger so hopefully we sure get her story next.
Jack Girard and his family have a long history of treasure hunting in Cancun. I liked how the author blended both the more ancient traditions of their Mayan ancestry along with current day traditions. Jack is a former Navy SEAL who is now running a charter catamaran company along with many of his former teammates. Along with that he also dabbles in dives looking for the treasures his grandfather was sure were out there. Two years ago he lost his brother to a drive by shooting. He was deployed at the time and was unable to make it back for the funeral or to meet his brother’s widow who was pregnant at the time. Two years later all of his family is at their estate in Cancun for the holidays and his brother’s widow has decided to come with her daughter.
Jillian was devastated when her husband died but she had to carry on and raise her daughter. She also decided she was going to finish her doctorate which was something her and her husband was both passionate about. Before he died he believed he had found the location of a treasure that Jack’s family had been looking for generations for.
What the two didn’t realize is there were also others looking for the same treasure and they would go to any means to get it which puts both of their lives in danger.
Jack and Jillian are attracted to each other right off the bat and Jack really falls in love with his little niece but due to her being his brother’s widow he’s reluctant at first to act on his feelings but its not long before these two give in. We get to meet quite a few of Jack’s old teammates who I am wondering if will get their own stories in the future. Jack’s divorced sister and her two kids also played a part in this book and her story is left with a little bit of a cliffhanger so hopefully we sure get her story next.
December 30, 2014
Loved it! I couldn't put the book down.
December 4, 2014
This book a step away from my normal read, but I am glad I took a chance on it. I found this story vastly entertaining. After all, that is the reason why I read to begin with, and I am sure that is your reason as well. There is nothing I enjoy more than escaping the daily routines of life with a well-written romance novel. Christmas in Cancun fits that description perfectly.
This is the first book in a new series by KaLyn Cooper. I really like her writing style. It is edgy with kick-ass heroes and feisty heroines. One thing I particularly like about this story is the factual research. Ms. Kalyn obviously did plenty of it. Her author profile states that she writes factual fiction, and from what I have read that is very true.
Jillian Gerard flies to Cancun with her two year old daughter to spend the holiday season with her late husband’s family. She briefly met them at her husband’s funeral, all except his ex-Navy SEAL brother, Jack Gerard. To say they did not embrace her with enthusiasm is putting it mildly, so she is skeptical about her reception, but after all, they are Addi’s family. It is only right that her daughter has a chance to know them. Besides, she desperately needs to go to Tulum to get valuable information that will collaborate her thesis for her doctorate.
When Jack Gerard meets Jillian’s plane at the airport in Cancun, he is astonished when he realizes the gorgeous long-legged, strawberry blonde and the adorable little toddler he rescues before she has a chance to escape, is none other than his brother, Jimmy’s widow. From his sister’s description he had expected a pudgy bespectacled woman, not a knock out. He feels a stirring in his loins beyond anything he has felt in a long time, but for God’s sake, the woman was married to his late brother! It seems wrong to be so attracted to her.
Unable to resist the temptation that Jillian presents, he offers to help her with her research. While they explore the ancient ruins of Tulum and the blue depths of the Caribbean Sea surrounding Isla Mujere (translated the Isle of women), their desire for each other grows with lightning speed. While Jillian seems to only want a brief affair, can Jack convince her to take a chance and love again?
This is a very fast-paced read and kept me on the edge of my seat throughout the story. It has elements of suspense and mystery along with some of the hottest love scenes I have read in a while. The sexual tension in this story is palpable, and kept me turning the pages as the romance builds between Jack and Jillian.
Ms. Cooper describes the scenery and landscape in vivid detail without being intrusive. An author must walk a fine line between giving the reader enough, but not too much, KaLyn Cooper achieves just the right touch. After reading this book, I can’t wait to visit Cancun and the ruins at Tulum. I want to learn more of the Mayan people since she piqued my curiosity with her touches of their history intermingled throughout the book.
Now to talk more about the romantic suspense and mystery of this awesome book, Ms. Cooper entwines these elements with a masterful touch as she tells her story. At times I became so engrossed that I did not want to put the book down. I have never been a big fan of mystery, but this exciting tale drew me in, and I thoroughly enjoyed that aspect of the book as much as the love story.
If you are looking for a book with a lot of romance with a good splash of romantic suspense and a great mystery to solve, then this is a story you will relish. I highly recommend this engaging book, and I am positive you will enjoy it as much as I did. Happy reading!
This is the first book in a new series by KaLyn Cooper. I really like her writing style. It is edgy with kick-ass heroes and feisty heroines. One thing I particularly like about this story is the factual research. Ms. Kalyn obviously did plenty of it. Her author profile states that she writes factual fiction, and from what I have read that is very true.
Jillian Gerard flies to Cancun with her two year old daughter to spend the holiday season with her late husband’s family. She briefly met them at her husband’s funeral, all except his ex-Navy SEAL brother, Jack Gerard. To say they did not embrace her with enthusiasm is putting it mildly, so she is skeptical about her reception, but after all, they are Addi’s family. It is only right that her daughter has a chance to know them. Besides, she desperately needs to go to Tulum to get valuable information that will collaborate her thesis for her doctorate.
When Jack Gerard meets Jillian’s plane at the airport in Cancun, he is astonished when he realizes the gorgeous long-legged, strawberry blonde and the adorable little toddler he rescues before she has a chance to escape, is none other than his brother, Jimmy’s widow. From his sister’s description he had expected a pudgy bespectacled woman, not a knock out. He feels a stirring in his loins beyond anything he has felt in a long time, but for God’s sake, the woman was married to his late brother! It seems wrong to be so attracted to her.
Unable to resist the temptation that Jillian presents, he offers to help her with her research. While they explore the ancient ruins of Tulum and the blue depths of the Caribbean Sea surrounding Isla Mujere (translated the Isle of women), their desire for each other grows with lightning speed. While Jillian seems to only want a brief affair, can Jack convince her to take a chance and love again?
This is a very fast-paced read and kept me on the edge of my seat throughout the story. It has elements of suspense and mystery along with some of the hottest love scenes I have read in a while. The sexual tension in this story is palpable, and kept me turning the pages as the romance builds between Jack and Jillian.
Ms. Cooper describes the scenery and landscape in vivid detail without being intrusive. An author must walk a fine line between giving the reader enough, but not too much, KaLyn Cooper achieves just the right touch. After reading this book, I can’t wait to visit Cancun and the ruins at Tulum. I want to learn more of the Mayan people since she piqued my curiosity with her touches of their history intermingled throughout the book.
Now to talk more about the romantic suspense and mystery of this awesome book, Ms. Cooper entwines these elements with a masterful touch as she tells her story. At times I became so engrossed that I did not want to put the book down. I have never been a big fan of mystery, but this exciting tale drew me in, and I thoroughly enjoyed that aspect of the book as much as the love story.
If you are looking for a book with a lot of romance with a good splash of romantic suspense and a great mystery to solve, then this is a story you will relish. I highly recommend this engaging book, and I am positive you will enjoy it as much as I did. Happy reading!
January 11, 2015
This is my first book by this author, and I really enjoyed it! She writes with vivid detail that makes you think you are there with her characters. That's a job well done in itself!
This story was both heartbreaking and beautiful. A young mother who lost her new husband way too soon, gets invited to spend Christmas in Cancun with family that she's never really gotten to know, since she's only ever met some of them at the funeral.
Upon arrival, Jillian is picked up from the airport by Jack, her late husband Jimmy's slightly older brother. Sexy, sculpted, Navy SEAL brother. * insert sigh * from how the author described Jack, he'd bring any woman to her knees in lust, ha!
How awkward falling for her brother-in-law during a Christmas vacation surrounded by family she doesn't even know, who have already have formed their own opinions – some good and some bad – about her. I have to say that the character Levi was not my favorite in this book! That's for sure! I loved Lily, she was so sweet; and by the looks of it from the end of this book, it looks like we'll get to see what happens with her some time soon! I thought it was great that a bachelor like Jack took so well to the idea of falling in love with Addison, his niece like she were his own. So rare to find men like that these days. Even though, yes, she's family by blood already with she being his niece, but still.
This story doesn't just offer a steamy romance, it has a lot of ancient Mayan history to go along with it too. A sort of mystery that Jillian, her husbands family, and many other researchers have been trying to solve for a really long time, which then leads to scandal and some suspense, and that kept this story moving at a steady pace. Perfect for any reader and I will definitely recommend this book to friends in the future!
This story was both heartbreaking and beautiful. A young mother who lost her new husband way too soon, gets invited to spend Christmas in Cancun with family that she's never really gotten to know, since she's only ever met some of them at the funeral.
Upon arrival, Jillian is picked up from the airport by Jack, her late husband Jimmy's slightly older brother. Sexy, sculpted, Navy SEAL brother. * insert sigh * from how the author described Jack, he'd bring any woman to her knees in lust, ha!
How awkward falling for her brother-in-law during a Christmas vacation surrounded by family she doesn't even know, who have already have formed their own opinions – some good and some bad – about her. I have to say that the character Levi was not my favorite in this book! That's for sure! I loved Lily, she was so sweet; and by the looks of it from the end of this book, it looks like we'll get to see what happens with her some time soon! I thought it was great that a bachelor like Jack took so well to the idea of falling in love with Addison, his niece like she were his own. So rare to find men like that these days. Even though, yes, she's family by blood already with she being his niece, but still.
"No problem, but if our food arrives, I'm not waiting for you. I'm hungry." Fact was she was starved. Not just for food, but for a man. She had been fasting for two years and had been offered a hot steak dinner. - Jillian to Jack. That's hot :)
This story doesn't just offer a steamy romance, it has a lot of ancient Mayan history to go along with it too. A sort of mystery that Jillian, her husbands family, and many other researchers have been trying to solve for a really long time, which then leads to scandal and some suspense, and that kept this story moving at a steady pace. Perfect for any reader and I will definitely recommend this book to friends in the future!
January 17, 2015
Originally published in booksandspoons.weebly.com/book-blog
Scorching hot romance, on the beautiful location of Cancun, with a mix of mystery, family functions, and Mayan history. Don't let the name fool you, Christmas is not the main theme in the story, more like the reason why the family is together at this time.
Jack and Jillian had an instant attraction upon meeting each other for the first time, despite the fact that Jillian is a widow of Jack's brother. At first I thought that might setting might be a bit awkward, but the connection is real, the attraction is hot, and the bond is unquestionable. The story is riddled with steaming love scenes, Jack and Jillian set the heat level high. But they have other interest in common as well, and the tidbits to the history, and mystery, of Mayan culture are interesting. Also a bit suspense/action added to the story, when Jack and Jillian are on the hunt to find answers to questions and treasures, many have tried before.
Jack also immediately connects with Jillian's daughter, Addison. She nearly steals the show, what an adorable kid she is. Jack's love for children is palpable, and admirable. The trio makes an adorable family unit immediately.
The big family is dysfunctional enough to be real, Levi, the older brother is cocky, and I can't wait to see him fall for feisty woman. This is a series, I want to keep following. The characters were charming, charismatic, and likable. The flow of the story was pleasant, and the tidbits of the mystery and history alluring.
~ Four spoons
Scorching hot romance, on the beautiful location of Cancun, with a mix of mystery, family functions, and Mayan history. Don't let the name fool you, Christmas is not the main theme in the story, more like the reason why the family is together at this time.
Jack and Jillian had an instant attraction upon meeting each other for the first time, despite the fact that Jillian is a widow of Jack's brother. At first I thought that might setting might be a bit awkward, but the connection is real, the attraction is hot, and the bond is unquestionable. The story is riddled with steaming love scenes, Jack and Jillian set the heat level high. But they have other interest in common as well, and the tidbits to the history, and mystery, of Mayan culture are interesting. Also a bit suspense/action added to the story, when Jack and Jillian are on the hunt to find answers to questions and treasures, many have tried before.
Jack also immediately connects with Jillian's daughter, Addison. She nearly steals the show, what an adorable kid she is. Jack's love for children is palpable, and admirable. The trio makes an adorable family unit immediately.
The big family is dysfunctional enough to be real, Levi, the older brother is cocky, and I can't wait to see him fall for feisty woman. This is a series, I want to keep following. The characters were charming, charismatic, and likable. The flow of the story was pleasant, and the tidbits of the mystery and history alluring.
~ Four spoons
November 20, 2014
** NOTE** I was given a copy of the book by the author for a honest review.
I absolutely loved this book!If I could give the book 10 stars I would because it was that good! Jack Girard is a former Navy SEAL who now owns a catamaran and dive business in Rivera Maya who still mourns the loss of his brother, because he couldn't attend his funeral as he was on a mission.
Jillian who has comes to the family compound at Christmas to finish her doctorate thesis only to find that she can't stay away from Jack. She has come at the request of the matriarch who wants the research that Jack's grandfather spent his life trying to solve the mystery to find ancient Mayan statues from the Isla Muueres. Jillian's daughter Addison comes with her mother and instantly bonds with Jack and becomes the darling of the book.
There is a corrupt professor who want to steal the statues for his own gain after the statues are found. KaLyn really did her research for this book (which is a huge plus in my book) and it makes the entire story come alive while you are reading it. I'm hoping that there will be another book featuring Jack's sister and the new former SEAL that is coming to work for Jack at his company.
I highly recommend this book as well as Ms. Cooper's first book "Explosive Combination" and I can't wait for the next book. She has become my new go-to author for military romance (and hot love scenes, you won't regret getting this book.
I absolutely loved this book!If I could give the book 10 stars I would because it was that good! Jack Girard is a former Navy SEAL who now owns a catamaran and dive business in Rivera Maya who still mourns the loss of his brother, because he couldn't attend his funeral as he was on a mission.
Jillian who has comes to the family compound at Christmas to finish her doctorate thesis only to find that she can't stay away from Jack. She has come at the request of the matriarch who wants the research that Jack's grandfather spent his life trying to solve the mystery to find ancient Mayan statues from the Isla Muueres. Jillian's daughter Addison comes with her mother and instantly bonds with Jack and becomes the darling of the book.
There is a corrupt professor who want to steal the statues for his own gain after the statues are found. KaLyn really did her research for this book (which is a huge plus in my book) and it makes the entire story come alive while you are reading it. I'm hoping that there will be another book featuring Jack's sister and the new former SEAL that is coming to work for Jack at his company.
I highly recommend this book as well as Ms. Cooper's first book "Explosive Combination" and I can't wait for the next book. She has become my new go-to author for military romance (and hot love scenes, you won't regret getting this book.
September 16, 2015
** NOTE** I was given a copy of the book by the author for a honest review.
This is the first book by this author and also the first book in the series. I loved this book. I can't wait for the next one.
This is the story of Jillian who's husband has died and she is going to be spending Christmas with his family. She wants their daughter to get to know his family since it is the only she has left. Jillian has been very protective over her daughter cause her deceased husband's family just seemed like they didn't care and were a little unkind at the funeral. She also needs to put closure to her husband's passing by doing one last thing for him.
Jack is the brother-in-law that she never had the chance to meet, but had heard lots about him. Jack missed his brother's funeral cause he was deployed at the time and was not told until awhile later. He feels that he also needs closure. Jack is tasked at picking up Jillian and her niece, and is instantly attracted to her. He knows that he shouldn't be, cause it was his brother's wife. Jack and Jillian become close cause they are thrown together and have a lot of the same interests.
This was such a great book. I loved their relationship with Jillian and Jack. Loved the secondary characters and can't wait for their stories. Too Tall is going to be a good one and also Levi. Some one needs to knock him on his ass and set him straight.
This is the first book by this author and also the first book in the series. I loved this book. I can't wait for the next one.
This is the story of Jillian who's husband has died and she is going to be spending Christmas with his family. She wants their daughter to get to know his family since it is the only she has left. Jillian has been very protective over her daughter cause her deceased husband's family just seemed like they didn't care and were a little unkind at the funeral. She also needs to put closure to her husband's passing by doing one last thing for him.
Jack is the brother-in-law that she never had the chance to meet, but had heard lots about him. Jack missed his brother's funeral cause he was deployed at the time and was not told until awhile later. He feels that he also needs closure. Jack is tasked at picking up Jillian and her niece, and is instantly attracted to her. He knows that he shouldn't be, cause it was his brother's wife. Jack and Jillian become close cause they are thrown together and have a lot of the same interests.
This was such a great book. I loved their relationship with Jillian and Jack. Loved the secondary characters and can't wait for their stories. Too Tall is going to be a good one and also Levi. Some one needs to knock him on his ass and set him straight.
September 17, 2015
Christmas in Cancun is my first story by KaLyn Cooper but definitely will not be my last. Her characters catch you and have you hoping for the happily ever after. I LOVE that this story is written in and around my favorite vacation spot, it's a beautiful area with ruins that everyone should try and see, given the opportunity.
Former SEAL Jack Girard is busy with his career and has forgotten about his grandfather's and brother's quest to find ancient golden Mayan statues, until his brother's widow, Jillian, arrives and brings the research along with their daughter, Addison.
Jillian has been raising Addison alone since Jimmy died and trying to finish her degree. When invited to Christmas, she finally agrees so she can finish her studies and allow Addison to get to know her extended family. Jillian doesn't expect to find a man while she's there. She doesn't feel ready for a relationship but wants a man in her bed.
The supporting characters and family members are written well and the storyline is fantastic. This book is filled with twists and turns, excitement, mystery, suspense, family and most importantly LOVE! This story kept me wanting more and I thoroughly enjoyed this story, from start to finish and can't wait for more!!
Former SEAL Jack Girard is busy with his career and has forgotten about his grandfather's and brother's quest to find ancient golden Mayan statues, until his brother's widow, Jillian, arrives and brings the research along with their daughter, Addison.
Jillian has been raising Addison alone since Jimmy died and trying to finish her degree. When invited to Christmas, she finally agrees so she can finish her studies and allow Addison to get to know her extended family. Jillian doesn't expect to find a man while she's there. She doesn't feel ready for a relationship but wants a man in her bed.
The supporting characters and family members are written well and the storyline is fantastic. This book is filled with twists and turns, excitement, mystery, suspense, family and most importantly LOVE! This story kept me wanting more and I thoroughly enjoyed this story, from start to finish and can't wait for more!!
November 24, 2014
KaLyn Cooper does it again! This is the second book by this talented author that I have read. Coming hot on the heels of Explosive Combination, this book was slightly different in that the story line was sweet featuring a charming toddler named Addison you can't help but fall in love with, along with a wonderful moving romance between her mom, Jillian, and her tough, hunky ex SEAL uncle, Jack. The story line was edgy with Jillian meeting her dead husband's relatives for the first time since a hostile meeting with them at his funeral. The story builds as romance builds between Jillian and Jack. Jack has a lot of emotion to get around as Jillian's husband was his favorite sibling. Factor in lost Mayan artifacts and a suspenseful chase to recover them, and the story just continues to draw you in. The locale is so clearly described that the image you get is like being there. The Mayan heritage is awesome as well. Would love to see story lines of Jack's siblings someday.This author just gets better. I can't wait till the next book.
March 2, 2017
This is a strong, sexy tale for adults, about a young woman who goes to spend Christmas in Cancun, Mexico, with her in-laws. They're all Americans I should add. The problem is that the young lady is widowed, with a small daughter, so while of course they are made very welcome, it's awkward and even embarrassing that she and her brother in law find themselves instantly attracted.
There is good history and natural history; location details include diving and local foods. Crime is usual and sunburn can be nasty. With the need to work through her grief and memories, the heroine can't start a new romance, which creates depth and an appreciable level of tension. There's also contrast between responsible dive tour firms and those less responsible, and legends of gold idols... and the bad luck that might befall finders.
I like that the tale is entirely respectful of pre-Columbian communities and incorporates a lot of landscape, history and culture. This is a sizzling love story with well-created characters and adult romance fans should enjoy the tale in this unusual setting.
There is good history and natural history; location details include diving and local foods. Crime is usual and sunburn can be nasty. With the need to work through her grief and memories, the heroine can't start a new romance, which creates depth and an appreciable level of tension. There's also contrast between responsible dive tour firms and those less responsible, and legends of gold idols... and the bad luck that might befall finders.
I like that the tale is entirely respectful of pre-Columbian communities and incorporates a lot of landscape, history and culture. This is a sizzling love story with well-created characters and adult romance fans should enjoy the tale in this unusual setting.
October 6, 2015
The book starts us off in a night club in Cancun, Jack sitting there watching the ladies in their barely there outfits. He receives a phone call from mom, letting him know he needs to go pick up his sister-in-law and her daughter from the airport. He does as he is told and goes to pick up Jillian, his younger brother Jimmy's widow and daughter. How did Jimmy die? Why did he die? Who was behind it? Oh, believe me, all that and more comes out in this book. It is one hell of a read, with murder, intrigue, threats, intimidation tactics, love, hate, fear, and joy all found within this book. Watch as the family dynamics towards Jillian change from the beginning of the book to the end of the book. I am already looking forward to Conquered in Cancun, book 1.5 of the Cancun series. Did I mention that Jack is a HOT former Navy SEAL? And he runs a dive boat and tourist business for touring islands? That he has Mayan ancestors? Yum!
RECEIVED THIS BOOK AS A GIFT FOR A FAIR/HONEST REVIEW and REVIEWER FOR Bloggin' With M.Brennan.
RECEIVED THIS BOOK AS A GIFT FOR A FAIR/HONEST REVIEW and REVIEWER FOR Bloggin' With M.Brennan.
November 21, 2014
Jillian comes to Cancun with her two year old daughter, Addison, to spend Christmas with the family of her deceased husband Jimmy, who was killed in a drive by shooting. She's only met some of his family briefly at his memorial service and is uncertain of how things will go. She has also come to finish her thesis on Mayan folklore, something she and Jimmy shared. Jack, Jimmy's brother, a former Navy SEAL,on a mission at the time of his brother's death, is in lust a first sight, constantly reminding himself she was his brother's wife. Sparks fly when Jack and Jillian are together and neither can keep their feelings from surfacing. Christmas In Cancun is well written with strong characters that you quickly grow attached to, especially Addison. KaLyn Cooper takes you on an adventure without ever leaving your home. I recommend this work to everyone and especially those who love a good romance.
June 18, 2015
*I was gifted this book for an honest review.
I don’t know what I was expecting when I began this book, but I was stunned. It was fantastic! The story centers on Jack, a former Navy seal, who runs a tourist boating business in Cancun, and Jillian, an anthropologist who is also his brother’s widow, as they search for hidden Mayan treasure. Intertwined with actual facts, this was a fascinating story from beginning to end.
Kalyn’s inclusion of two-year old Addison, Jillian’s daughter and Jack’s niece was expertly done. It would have been so easy to write about a baby, and forget to include the toddler in key scenes, but Kalyn managed to blend believable action for all of the characters.
This was not only an exciting book, but also a heartwarming tale of two people who begin an enchanting romance, while also being able to grieve over the shared loss of someone they both loved. I am truly in love with this book and I am now a huge fan of Kalyn Cooper. I give this book 5 stars!!
I don’t know what I was expecting when I began this book, but I was stunned. It was fantastic! The story centers on Jack, a former Navy seal, who runs a tourist boating business in Cancun, and Jillian, an anthropologist who is also his brother’s widow, as they search for hidden Mayan treasure. Intertwined with actual facts, this was a fascinating story from beginning to end.
Kalyn’s inclusion of two-year old Addison, Jillian’s daughter and Jack’s niece was expertly done. It would have been so easy to write about a baby, and forget to include the toddler in key scenes, but Kalyn managed to blend believable action for all of the characters.
This was not only an exciting book, but also a heartwarming tale of two people who begin an enchanting romance, while also being able to grieve over the shared loss of someone they both loved. I am truly in love with this book and I am now a huge fan of Kalyn Cooper. I give this book 5 stars!!
November 22, 2014
I was given this book in exchange for an honest review. And honestly, it was a great read. Jillian and her daughter Addison go to Cancun to meet her dead husbands family for the first time. His brother Jack is instantly infatuated with her and Addison. Jillian & Jack bond further when they team up to look for lost Mayan artifacts that was his brother's dream. The book was well written with a nice blend of romance and suspense.
September 13, 2019
I enjoyed reading Christmas in Cancun by KaLyn Cooper. Ms Cooper delivered a well written book. The characters were awesome and the suspense built through the story. Ms Cooper added just the right amount of heat to Christmas in Cancun to make it interesting. I look forward to reading more from KaLyn Cooper in the future. This book is a complete story, NOT a cliffhanger.
December 1, 2014
A beautiful and touching love story. This is my first time reading Kalyn Cooper's book and I loved it. There's a touch of suspense/mystery, a wonderful dose of passion and romance, an enchanting scenic location and of course, a hot alpha former navy seal! Perfect!
May 7, 2015
I loved it. This was my first book by this author and it will not be my last read of hers. I really enjoyed the way she told me the story. It was hot sexy fast paced and just downright hot. So glad I took a chance and bought another book of her's in print when I met her in Nashville
September 23, 2015
Omg this book is amazing. I couldn't put it down! The chemistry between Jack and Jillian is awesome. I can't wait to see what Kalyn has in store next..... If you are looking for a drop dead georgous romance then this is the book for you
January 16, 2016
A Fun Christmas read
This was the first book I've read by KaLyn Cooper but it won't be the last. A Seal hero, a search for treasure, and a sweet mother and child who deserve a happy ever after this was a fun Christmas read.
This was the first book I've read by KaLyn Cooper but it won't be the last. A Seal hero, a search for treasure, and a sweet mother and child who deserve a happy ever after this was a fun Christmas read.
January 2, 2015
It was quite good
December 24, 2016
A sexy, former SEAL and beautiful Mayan anthropologist find more than they bargain for when they team up to complete a decades old family treasure hunt in Cancun. From crystal clear waters to hot, steamy nights, they must work together to escape the danger waiting for them on the Riviera Maya. KaLyn Cooper has penned an exciting, spicy tale of love in the first book of her new, contemporary series, In Cancun. Curl up in your favorite chair and escape to the beautiful Caribbean with Christmas In Cancun.
Busy building a new career with his catamaran company, former SEAL Jack Girard had all but forgotten about his grandfather’s quest to find the golden Mayan goddess statues until his brother’s beautiful widow, Jillian, and adorable daughter, Addison, arrive in Cancun with the research. His need to complete the family mission is almost as strong as his desire for Jillian.
Between raising her daughter alone and finishing her doctorate in Mayan anthropology, Jillian doesn’t have time for a man in her life, although, after mourning for two years, she’s ready for one in her bed.
An underwater Virgin Mary statue and centuries-old manuscripts lead the two of them through the Mayan Riviera and directly into danger.
During steamy Caribbean nights together, will they develop the ability to move on and discover the real treasure is family?
What a wonderful read. I loved this book. Couldn' t put it down. 5 stars.
Busy building a new career with his catamaran company, former SEAL Jack Girard had all but forgotten about his grandfather’s quest to find the golden Mayan goddess statues until his brother’s beautiful widow, Jillian, and adorable daughter, Addison, arrive in Cancun with the research. His need to complete the family mission is almost as strong as his desire for Jillian.
Between raising her daughter alone and finishing her doctorate in Mayan anthropology, Jillian doesn’t have time for a man in her life, although, after mourning for two years, she’s ready for one in her bed.
An underwater Virgin Mary statue and centuries-old manuscripts lead the two of them through the Mayan Riviera and directly into danger.
During steamy Caribbean nights together, will they develop the ability to move on and discover the real treasure is family?
What a wonderful read. I loved this book. Couldn' t put it down. 5 stars.
December 27, 2018
“I’ll be right beside you every step of the way…”
Former Navy SEAL Jack Girard is still working on not being there when his brother Jimmy was tragically killed. With the holiday approaching, his family once again is faced with another Christmas without Jimmy. But there is some comfort in that his widow Jillian, and their daughter Addison, will be joining the Girard family in Cancun for the holidays. Not sure what to expect when Jack picks them up at the airport, he’s awestruck at the beauty that approaches him. While his brain keeps saying this is his sister-in-law, his heart keeps telling him that this woman is the one.
Jillian finally has the time to travel to see Jimmy’s family and to take their daughter to meet everyone. Two years have passed since her husband was killed, and she feels as if her heart will never be made whole again. That is until she meets Jack, Jimmy’s brother. When she looks into his eyes, she feels as if she’s been brought back to life.
KaLyn Cooper has weaved a heartfelt second chance romance around a longtime family treasure hunt for lost Mayan statues with a beautiful setting in the Caribbean. This reader is a sucker for holiday reads and second chance at love romances, and Christmas in Cancun has it all. Highly recommend!
Former Navy SEAL Jack Girard is still working on not being there when his brother Jimmy was tragically killed. With the holiday approaching, his family once again is faced with another Christmas without Jimmy. But there is some comfort in that his widow Jillian, and their daughter Addison, will be joining the Girard family in Cancun for the holidays. Not sure what to expect when Jack picks them up at the airport, he’s awestruck at the beauty that approaches him. While his brain keeps saying this is his sister-in-law, his heart keeps telling him that this woman is the one.
Jillian finally has the time to travel to see Jimmy’s family and to take their daughter to meet everyone. Two years have passed since her husband was killed, and she feels as if her heart will never be made whole again. That is until she meets Jack, Jimmy’s brother. When she looks into his eyes, she feels as if she’s been brought back to life.
KaLyn Cooper has weaved a heartfelt second chance romance around a longtime family treasure hunt for lost Mayan statues with a beautiful setting in the Caribbean. This reader is a sucker for holiday reads and second chance at love romances, and Christmas in Cancun has it all. Highly recommend!
July 30, 2018
I really enjoy KaLyn Cooper's work. What could have been an awkward relationship was actually very smooth and not only, not akward, but understandable in how it could happen. KaLyn Cooper is a detailed writer. When the writer puts that many details into a story you know just how much they love there worlds , characters and story. The way the writer tells there stories is how you can see the true artistry of the writer. It's the way you can tell just how much they love there work. The more they love there work the better the story. KaLyn Cooper loves her work and it shows in her stories. You can't go wrong with with any of KaLyn Coopers books. I always enjoy her stories and worlds. They are incredibly detailed and fleshed out. There are not any holes or gaps in the story. I did receive a free copy of this story for an honest and fair review. I never review in detail the story itself because others already do that, as well, the blurb on the novel is available for that. I just cover the information that I myself would like to know. There are no cliff hangers at the end of the story. It's complete. The story is thoroughly thought out and well written. I enjoyed it and believe others will as well.
September 29, 2019
A great story from KaLyn Cooper and I’ve definitely fallen a bit in love with Jack he’s adorable! Treasure hunting, diving, the glorious Yucatan Peninsula, it made me itch to visit this part of the world again. Jack and Jillian’s love story is beautifully written to combine romance, tragedy, suspense with the fascinating Mayan history of the area.
Jillian was widowed young and left with a precious baby girl, Addison. Wanting her daughter to know her father’s family Jillian takes her to Mexico to meet her in-laws. She feels an instant spark of attraction to Jack her dead husband’ brother. Former Seal Jack is equally attracted to Jillian, although he possibly fell for baby Addison first, and who wouldn’t as she’s totally adorable. Can Jack and Jillian navigate their strange relationship, deal with family issues, find the treasure and get their HEA? Their are some twists, Jack knows what he wants and is determined to get it.
It’s definitely an emotional story that will tug your heartstrings and Jack is a keeper, thoroughly enjoyed reading it.
Jillian was widowed young and left with a precious baby girl, Addison. Wanting her daughter to know her father’s family Jillian takes her to Mexico to meet her in-laws. She feels an instant spark of attraction to Jack her dead husband’ brother. Former Seal Jack is equally attracted to Jillian, although he possibly fell for baby Addison first, and who wouldn’t as she’s totally adorable. Can Jack and Jillian navigate their strange relationship, deal with family issues, find the treasure and get their HEA? Their are some twists, Jack knows what he wants and is determined to get it.
It’s definitely an emotional story that will tug your heartstrings and Jack is a keeper, thoroughly enjoyed reading it.
January 9, 2018
OMG you better have Kleenex close by when you read this. Especially when Jillian, Jack, and Addison spread the ashes of Jillian's husband (Jack's brother) in the ocean. Addison words made me cry. The rest of the book is awesome with how they fight their feelings for each other and the fact that Jillian is his sister-in-law and how wrong it is but at the same time how right it is. Jack's mother and other brother Levi think she is just after their money, but Jack knows that is not true. He fights hard to keep her there and helps her to do her research for her thesis.
Will his family come around and finally get to know the real Jillian and not the one they think she is? Will she and Jack finally admit they love each other? Will they find the statues they are looking for before others do?
Will his family come around and finally get to know the real Jillian and not the one they think she is? Will she and Jack finally admit they love each other? Will they find the statues they are looking for before others do?
July 7, 2020
This is a new series for me by this author and I recommend it. Jack Girard is one of four children who's forged his own path compared to his siblings. He's tasked with picking up his sister-in-law at the airport, married to his younger deceased brother, he has no idea what she looks like. He's been told she's paunchy. Well, the woman at the airport is stunning, definitely not paunchy. Lots going on with this family dynamics and especially when Jack has feelings for his brother's widow and her young two year old daughter. Throw in a treasure hunt, an annoying villain, family history and you've got one spectacular story. I loved the development of their feelings and I especially loved the backbone of Jillian. Jack has a take charge attitude and can solve all tasks that come to him, after all he is an X-seal.
I received this readers copy in exchange for an honest review.
I received this readers copy in exchange for an honest review.
February 2, 2022
** NOTE** I was given a copy of the book by the author for a honest review.
The book starts with Jack being tasked to pick up his sister-in-law and niece, whom he has never met. He meets them, and promptly falls for them. The relationship between Jillian and her in-laws, who were like strangers to her, developed as both sides made the effort to get to know one another.
Jack and Jillian's relationship was full of chemistry, and they were well-matched in their interests, which meshed but were not too similar. I like how they worked together to solve the mystery and save themselves at the end.
Overall, it is a tight plot, no answered questions and cliffhangers, paced beautifully and everything makes sense while being enjoyable. The description of the area was so clear that I felt like I was there. I also loved the family dynamics and how real the characters were.
The book starts with Jack being tasked to pick up his sister-in-law and niece, whom he has never met. He meets them, and promptly falls for them. The relationship between Jillian and her in-laws, who were like strangers to her, developed as both sides made the effort to get to know one another.
Jack and Jillian's relationship was full of chemistry, and they were well-matched in their interests, which meshed but were not too similar. I like how they worked together to solve the mystery and save themselves at the end.
Overall, it is a tight plot, no answered questions and cliffhangers, paced beautifully and everything makes sense while being enjoyable. The description of the area was so clear that I felt like I was there. I also loved the family dynamics and how real the characters were.
December 17, 2020
History lesson
OMG what a beautiful story, meeting the daughter in law for the second time since her husband's funeral, things are dicey and high strung spending two weeks with the in-laws, Jack is breaking down Jillian's walls, on the hunt for Mayan treasures and history, Jillian and baby Addison, Levi accuses her of being a gold digger just wanting the family fortune, being the oldest of this kids thinks its his job to protect the family, there at the family compound to release her husband's ashes at the place he loved the most, trusting Jack to help her Jillian confides to tell him exactly what Jimmy's last request was, amazing story I can't wait to finish this series, thank you, Dana Zamora
OMG what a beautiful story, meeting the daughter in law for the second time since her husband's funeral, things are dicey and high strung spending two weeks with the in-laws, Jack is breaking down Jillian's walls, on the hunt for Mayan treasures and history, Jillian and baby Addison, Levi accuses her of being a gold digger just wanting the family fortune, being the oldest of this kids thinks its his job to protect the family, there at the family compound to release her husband's ashes at the place he loved the most, trusting Jack to help her Jillian confides to tell him exactly what Jimmy's last request was, amazing story I can't wait to finish this series, thank you, Dana Zamora
December 17, 2017
3.5 bumped to 4 Treasure Hunting Stars. It's that time of year...I'm on my Christmas reading binge. This one is interesting, it's not the typical cookie cutter Christmas read. There's intrigue, some treasure hunting, a little bit of family drama, and some sinister intent throughout the pages. What's interesting about this one is that there are some actual historical facts woven into the story. The ending was a little abrupt, but otherwise, I really enjoyed this one.
September 16, 2019
Loved this book taking place in the caribbean. A ex-Navy Seal and his brother's Widow and her daughter. She's there so her daughter can meet her grandmother and family. His older brother thinking she's a gold digger, trying to get another brother. But this gives her a chance to work on her thesis about the Virgin Mary and it's origins. There's action, a lot of heat and the cutest baby ever. HEA.
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