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Karma #1
Tough Karma: A Race Against Time
From the Author of Little Bits of Karma comes a chilling new tale of loss, tragedy, psychic warfare, and eternal love. Amber Macklin’s world is cruelly shattered when she loses her baby girl three months after her husband’s sudden death. Her cousin, Bryce, comes to her rescue, moving her into his home for fear she will kill herself from the grief. He provides solace and a shoulder to cry on, and he has loved her as more than a cousin for a long time. Amber and Bryce soon discover they are not blood relatives, which opens the door for romance as he pulls her through her darkest hours. When Mike, a college friend of Bryce’s, stops by to visit, Amber senses a deadly secret behind his nice guy persona. She has a frightening dream that Mike is trying to kill her and recurring sleepwalking episodes where she draws detailed pictures of him torturing her. Deeply troubled, Bryce uses his ability to astral travel to investigate Mike and uncover his terrifying past. Mike has had his eye on Amber for some time, and when he learns that Bryce and Amber have become lovers, he is furious. Mike abducts Amber and takes her to his rural Georgia hideaway, and Bryce must rely on his astral abilities to track her down. But will he be too late?
224 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 16, 2017
21 people are currently reading
472 people want to read
About the author
Laura Simmons
23 books283 followersI enjoy reading books on psychic phenomena and all things metaphysical. Most of my life I've been fascinated with astral travel, dreams, the ability to see the future, and reincarnation.
I've wanted to write a book since I was a child, it was the first thing I can ever remember saying I wanted to do when I grow up. I love creating worlds in my mind and writing about them. My best days are when my characters decide to have lively conversations and I type them fast and furious.
I've wanted to write a book since I was a child, it was the first thing I can ever remember saying I wanted to do when I grow up. I love creating worlds in my mind and writing about them. My best days are when my characters decide to have lively conversations and I type them fast and furious.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
December 4, 2019
It starts off where the last book (which I haven’t read) left off: Amber having lost her baby and facing the strenuous effort to move on. The grief is what jumps out instantly as everybody mourns a death.
Story is well-crafted in a lyrical and sorrowing fashion. There were various characters, each with distressing ties and emotional loose ends. Having not read the first book in this series, it took me a while to learn these complex characters. Jenny, Luke, Bryce, James. Characters are so burdened by the weight of their emotions that it’s really all you see. I didn’t quite connect with any of them. Of course, I became even more detached going deeper into the past, especially with extra cast members interlacing the richly dense and multifaceted story. On top of that, the story maintained a monotonous drone, making it easier to disengage that much more. The concept sounded exciting, but the overall read wasn’t what I had anticipated.
Story is well-crafted in a lyrical and sorrowing fashion. There were various characters, each with distressing ties and emotional loose ends. Having not read the first book in this series, it took me a while to learn these complex characters. Jenny, Luke, Bryce, James. Characters are so burdened by the weight of their emotions that it’s really all you see. I didn’t quite connect with any of them. Of course, I became even more detached going deeper into the past, especially with extra cast members interlacing the richly dense and multifaceted story. On top of that, the story maintained a monotonous drone, making it easier to disengage that much more. The concept sounded exciting, but the overall read wasn’t what I had anticipated.
April 28, 2017
This was a different sort of supernatural read for me.. It had to do with astral projection and it was really well written and interesting to read. It also had some other powers as well. more of the mind type then shifters or vampires etc.. these have to do with astral and telekenetic etc.. The characters were amazing.. the talents and abilities were wonderful.. and the writing was very well done. I am glad i got to review it
June 26, 2020
Amber has just lost the two most important people in her life: her husband, and her baby. She doesn’t know how she is going to cope with the grief. Bryce is her cousin and is there for her to make sure she doesn’t make any rash decisions. After the first couple of weeks go by and Amber is finally starting to feel something other than sadness, Mike shows up. Mike has been a long-time friend of Bryce and definitely has a thing for Amber. The reader is told that Mike wants Amber for himself and will stop at nothing to get her.
Tough Karma: A Race Against Time by Laura Simmons is the second book in this series, but it gave a quick recap in the beginning to give the reader enough information to read this book as sort of a stand-alone book. At first, it felt like an information dump, but it was short and sweet. I later appreciated this because it allowed me to get to the rest of the book. This book is definitely one of my favorites of 2020 thus far and I have a feeling that it will stay in the top 5 for the year round-up.
In my opinion, the book was edited well, although there were a few typos and extra spaces where there normally wouldn’t be. These errors didn’t take away from the story or the natural flow of my reading. It also could be just the way that the book transfers formats as well. The POV was third-person omniscient and for the first couple chapters, it seemed like there were too many different opinions and thoughts of all the characters at once, especially when switching scenes. This either got better or I adjusted to it relatively quick.
Oh, the praises I could sing about this book! I love the way that Laura Simmons writes and the way that she crafted this story. She does an amazing job of keeping the reader on their toes and there were only two things that I guessed would happen before Simmons revealed them in the book. While I do love a good plot twist, I can normally figure them out to some degree. I was pleasantly surprised when I was wrong on a couple of them. I also appreciate that Simmons isn’t afraid to make people uncomfortable while reading her book. She was able to think like a real mad man and get into Mike’s head amazingly well. Some of the things that she added into the story and the characters' backgrounds were appalling, they did heaps of good for the story.
I give this book a solid 5/5 stars, even though there were a few typos here and there. This book wouldn’t be appropriate for kids that aren’t 8th grade or higher. Especially not okay to read for those who have been abused in any way because of the content. There are profanity and mentions of rape, drugs, drugging others, and physical abuse. Overall, this book is tastefully written and I will definitely be reading the other books in the series.
*I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.*
Tough Karma: A Race Against Time by Laura Simmons is the second book in this series, but it gave a quick recap in the beginning to give the reader enough information to read this book as sort of a stand-alone book. At first, it felt like an information dump, but it was short and sweet. I later appreciated this because it allowed me to get to the rest of the book. This book is definitely one of my favorites of 2020 thus far and I have a feeling that it will stay in the top 5 for the year round-up.
In my opinion, the book was edited well, although there were a few typos and extra spaces where there normally wouldn’t be. These errors didn’t take away from the story or the natural flow of my reading. It also could be just the way that the book transfers formats as well. The POV was third-person omniscient and for the first couple chapters, it seemed like there were too many different opinions and thoughts of all the characters at once, especially when switching scenes. This either got better or I adjusted to it relatively quick.
Oh, the praises I could sing about this book! I love the way that Laura Simmons writes and the way that she crafted this story. She does an amazing job of keeping the reader on their toes and there were only two things that I guessed would happen before Simmons revealed them in the book. While I do love a good plot twist, I can normally figure them out to some degree. I was pleasantly surprised when I was wrong on a couple of them. I also appreciate that Simmons isn’t afraid to make people uncomfortable while reading her book. She was able to think like a real mad man and get into Mike’s head amazingly well. Some of the things that she added into the story and the characters' backgrounds were appalling, they did heaps of good for the story.
I give this book a solid 5/5 stars, even though there were a few typos here and there. This book wouldn’t be appropriate for kids that aren’t 8th grade or higher. Especially not okay to read for those who have been abused in any way because of the content. There are profanity and mentions of rape, drugs, drugging others, and physical abuse. Overall, this book is tastefully written and I will definitely be reading the other books in the series.
*I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.*
August 23, 2017
Amber Macklin is having a hard time dealing with the loss of her husband and then her daughter and moves in with her cousin Bryce Decker until she can get on her feet. There is clearly some attraction between the two of them but they have to keep a distance. When they learn that they are not blood relations that distance disappears. An old college friend of Bryce’s shows up to wish them the best but bad things start happening. Amber is starting to have visions and drawing scenes of Mike torturing and killing her. It seems that Mike has wanted Amber for a long time and is rather upset that Bryce is with her.
This is a great story that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Amber and Bryce have been through so much but it was great to learn that they had each other. Mike is a creep on so many levels. I felt for Amber as she was having these visions and creating these horrible drawings. Then when he kidnaps her, I was hoping she could get away or Bryce get there in time.
I loved the paranormal additions to this story. We have the previous lives but also some astral projection and psychic abilities. They made this already intense story better. Now I admit the whole cousin love thing gave me a touch of the creeps so I was glad that they were not blood related even though it is still a little odd.
I really have enjoyed both books in the Karma series and I can’t wait to see what Laura Simmons comes up with next.
I received Tough Karma from Silver Dagger Book Tours for free. This has in no way influenced my opinion of this book.
This is a great story that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Amber and Bryce have been through so much but it was great to learn that they had each other. Mike is a creep on so many levels. I felt for Amber as she was having these visions and creating these horrible drawings. Then when he kidnaps her, I was hoping she could get away or Bryce get there in time.
I loved the paranormal additions to this story. We have the previous lives but also some astral projection and psychic abilities. They made this already intense story better. Now I admit the whole cousin love thing gave me a touch of the creeps so I was glad that they were not blood related even though it is still a little odd.
I really have enjoyed both books in the Karma series and I can’t wait to see what Laura Simmons comes up with next.
I received Tough Karma from Silver Dagger Book Tours for free. This has in no way influenced my opinion of this book.
May 7, 2017
Tough Karma
A Race against time
Laura Simmons
Three words... Oh my god!
A thriller that will have you at the edge of your seat, biting at the bit for more.
Amber is just getting over her husband's tragic death. Then if that wasn't enough another closer to home happens and throws her for a loop. With no one close by to help her out without being a burden. Her cousin Bryce decides to step in and help her out till she can get back onto her feet. When friends come by to wish her better, she gets dark feelings from one friend that just creeps her out. But she doesn't know why, he always seemed so nice. She loves her cousin Bryce but wishes that he wasn't her cousin. He always had a shoulder for her to cry on and arms to hold her till she was done crying. Will the world ever be nice to her?
Bryce has always had feelings for his little cousin Amber. When she needed looked after, after a couple tragic events. Who better to step in than him. He lives close by and could help her out better. He wants to know about her recent drawings and what they mean. So when he astral projects himself, he is shocked by what he finds hidden in their past. And who is after her again. Will he be able to stop him?
A Race against time
Laura Simmons
Three words... Oh my god!
A thriller that will have you at the edge of your seat, biting at the bit for more.
Amber is just getting over her husband's tragic death. Then if that wasn't enough another closer to home happens and throws her for a loop. With no one close by to help her out without being a burden. Her cousin Bryce decides to step in and help her out till she can get back onto her feet. When friends come by to wish her better, she gets dark feelings from one friend that just creeps her out. But she doesn't know why, he always seemed so nice. She loves her cousin Bryce but wishes that he wasn't her cousin. He always had a shoulder for her to cry on and arms to hold her till she was done crying. Will the world ever be nice to her?
Bryce has always had feelings for his little cousin Amber. When she needed looked after, after a couple tragic events. Who better to step in than him. He lives close by and could help her out better. He wants to know about her recent drawings and what they mean. So when he astral projects himself, he is shocked by what he finds hidden in their past. And who is after her again. Will he be able to stop him?
March 12, 2018
Oh My Gods, what a book! That was. Um that was? I’m speechless, as to what to say. This book floored me. It was well-written and thought out, but so much more to.
This book is about Bryce and Amber. Man she had a hard start. Now for a word of warning, if you are triggered by some things, know this book starts with a death of a child, and an attempted suicide. It does get better and is such a wonderful read on Karma and reincarnation. I loved the part as to how we plan our lives but forget the plan once we are born. Oh and who we were in past lives. Amber is an amazing woman for she gets kidnapped and escapes only to be caught and she never loses hope. And man the guy who takes her is really a mess. Let’s just hope Bryce can save her in time. I could go on and on, so
Now before I ruin this for you I will leave off here. I hope you enjoy this book as much as I did. If you do like this book, please consider leaving a review. The Authors really like it when you do; they value your opinions too.
This book is about Bryce and Amber. Man she had a hard start. Now for a word of warning, if you are triggered by some things, know this book starts with a death of a child, and an attempted suicide. It does get better and is such a wonderful read on Karma and reincarnation. I loved the part as to how we plan our lives but forget the plan once we are born. Oh and who we were in past lives. Amber is an amazing woman for she gets kidnapped and escapes only to be caught and she never loses hope. And man the guy who takes her is really a mess. Let’s just hope Bryce can save her in time. I could go on and on, so
Now before I ruin this for you I will leave off here. I hope you enjoy this book as much as I did. If you do like this book, please consider leaving a review. The Authors really like it when you do; they value your opinions too.
May 7, 2019
So, I think this has got to be the first time traveler romance that I’ve read, and I have to say, I was intrigued! When the idea of fate and Karma came into the story, it added an interesting paranormal twist to an otherwise ordinary world.
This is the second book in the series, and although I didn’t read the first one, I have a gist of what happened before this book. When it opens, we meet Amber who is going through a tough time in her life. She decides to move in with her cousin for support, and it’s soon after this that Amber’s world begins to change. There’s something different about one of Bryce’s friends, something dangerous.
The mix of paranormal and thriller made this a definite page turner. There are things such as astral projection among other paranormal phenomenon. As already mentioned, not a type of book I come across often, but this book really opened me up to the genre.
This is the second book in the series, and although I didn’t read the first one, I have a gist of what happened before this book. When it opens, we meet Amber who is going through a tough time in her life. She decides to move in with her cousin for support, and it’s soon after this that Amber’s world begins to change. There’s something different about one of Bryce’s friends, something dangerous.
The mix of paranormal and thriller made this a definite page turner. There are things such as astral projection among other paranormal phenomenon. As already mentioned, not a type of book I come across often, but this book really opened me up to the genre.
June 30, 2019
A wonderful start to a brilliantly written series!
I thoroughly enjoyed this one! The story revolves around Amber, who suffers from a double whammy of losing not only her husband but her infant daughter in a short period of time. She's grieving and hurting to the point that her cousin Bryce has her stay at his house to be there for her and make sure she doesn't try hurting herself. During this time, Amber starts sleepwalking and drawing some disturbing images from her dreams, though she doesn't recall. One that has her worried is of being tortured by Byrce's college friend Mike. Amber discovers that Bryce has the ability to astral travel and learns that there's more to Mike than either one suspects and a connection that takes them by surprise. There's plenty of thrilling drama, paranormal mystery, and romance that will keep you turning the pages. I highly recommend this one!
I thoroughly enjoyed this one! The story revolves around Amber, who suffers from a double whammy of losing not only her husband but her infant daughter in a short period of time. She's grieving and hurting to the point that her cousin Bryce has her stay at his house to be there for her and make sure she doesn't try hurting herself. During this time, Amber starts sleepwalking and drawing some disturbing images from her dreams, though she doesn't recall. One that has her worried is of being tortured by Byrce's college friend Mike. Amber discovers that Bryce has the ability to astral travel and learns that there's more to Mike than either one suspects and a connection that takes them by surprise. There's plenty of thrilling drama, paranormal mystery, and romance that will keep you turning the pages. I highly recommend this one!
September 3, 2019
I have read some pretty thought out books. And, I have a crazily intense imagination. This book took me by surprise. While I kind of knew what to expect because of the blurb and a couple of skimmed reviews, what I got was way beyond anything I could think up.
The world-building alone was phenomenal. The chemistry between the main characters was just fantastic. I want to tell you why they were so well together, but I don't do spoilers. But, trust me, it's not why you think.
The story builds at a nice and even pace. I wasn't ever bored, which I love.
Things happen, secrets are exposed and a "past" is revealed. And that ending was simply perfect.
This is the second book in a series but I don't you need to read the first to fully understand this one.
This is my first read by this author. She grabbed me by the face and shoved me into this world of magic, suspense and romance. I can't wait to see what else she can do.
The world-building alone was phenomenal. The chemistry between the main characters was just fantastic. I want to tell you why they were so well together, but I don't do spoilers. But, trust me, it's not why you think.
The story builds at a nice and even pace. I wasn't ever bored, which I love.
Things happen, secrets are exposed and a "past" is revealed. And that ending was simply perfect.
This is the second book in a series but I don't you need to read the first to fully understand this one.
This is my first read by this author. She grabbed me by the face and shoved me into this world of magic, suspense and romance. I can't wait to see what else she can do.
June 28, 2019
* I have volunteered to share my review and all the opinions are 100% my own *
This is the story of Amber Macklin, she has gone through quite a bit of a hard time what with losing her husband and then her baby daughter dies of cot death, nothing could be worse. So her cousin Bryce Decker moves in with her to keep her on the straight and narrow.
Bryce also has a gift, he can astral project, and each night he keeps a check on Amber. He has been in love with Amber forever but because they are cousins, he has not made a move and has been kept in the friend zone. But when Bryce’s brother Luke has a DNA test done the results change everything.
There is a lot going on here, what with Bryce astral projecting, Amber, sleepwalking and drawing about Mike (Bryces college friend) torturing her.
Can Bryce keep Amber alive or will he lose her forever, now that they both feel the same about each other.
Great story by Laura Simmons and look forward to the next instalment.
This is the story of Amber Macklin, she has gone through quite a bit of a hard time what with losing her husband and then her baby daughter dies of cot death, nothing could be worse. So her cousin Bryce Decker moves in with her to keep her on the straight and narrow.
Bryce also has a gift, he can astral project, and each night he keeps a check on Amber. He has been in love with Amber forever but because they are cousins, he has not made a move and has been kept in the friend zone. But when Bryce’s brother Luke has a DNA test done the results change everything.
There is a lot going on here, what with Bryce astral projecting, Amber, sleepwalking and drawing about Mike (Bryces college friend) torturing her.
Can Bryce keep Amber alive or will he lose her forever, now that they both feel the same about each other.
Great story by Laura Simmons and look forward to the next instalment.
July 3, 2020
I recommend reading Little Bits of Karma first. I can only assume this book picks up where Little Bits left off.
We are thrown into the world of Amber and Bryce. Amber is suffering a great loss. Two tragedies within months of each other. She leans on family, her best friend and cousin Bryce. While dealing with this loss, a dangerous friend, Mike, appears and threatens any chance of happiness.
A great read that has a mix of romance, thriller and supernatural. It introduces us to past lives, astral projection, and reincarnation. I enjoyed the fact that these experiences were brought up naturally and were explained without making a person feel stupid. I truly enjoyed reading this.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
We are thrown into the world of Amber and Bryce. Amber is suffering a great loss. Two tragedies within months of each other. She leans on family, her best friend and cousin Bryce. While dealing with this loss, a dangerous friend, Mike, appears and threatens any chance of happiness.
A great read that has a mix of romance, thriller and supernatural. It introduces us to past lives, astral projection, and reincarnation. I enjoyed the fact that these experiences were brought up naturally and were explained without making a person feel stupid. I truly enjoyed reading this.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 1, 2020
This book straddles the line between suspense, thriller and paranormal. The paranormal and the time travel is more of an ability to astral travel, which is the ability for the soul to travel outside the body, and Bryce uses his ability to try to save Amber after she’s abducted. There is a lot going on in this book, and it keeps a great pace. This is the second book in the series, but the authors gives us a great prologue to catch you up in case it’s been awhile since you read the first one, or like in my case, you didn’t read the first.
I definitely enjoyed this story and the originality. This book is well written and well worth your time.
I definitely enjoyed this story and the originality. This book is well written and well worth your time.
February 18, 2020
This was an exciting book about the paranormal world of the mind. I loved reading every page. After Amber loses her husband and her baby she finds solace in the arms of her cousin Bryce. He takes care of her and watches out for her at the darkest time of her life. When it comes out that they are not actually blood related they decide to start a real relationship knowing they are in love with each other. Can Bryce use his astral projecting to save Amber when she is kidnapped by a crazed murdering stalker or will he be too late?
I received this book as an arc and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received this book as an arc and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 25, 2019
What a story! The writer has a wonderful imagination.
I really enjoyed that the past parts of the story were written in italics, no misunderstanding what was happening here and it made it so clear.
Astral flying, wow, can people really do that or is it only in stories? So interested I think I need to research it.
Amber's story starts off so sad, then gets happy, then gets a whole lot scary, gosh really felt for her what a lot of things to go through. Luckily, she has wonderful Bryce watching her back and taking care of her.
Interesting story, fast moving, easy to read and a page turner.
I really enjoyed that the past parts of the story were written in italics, no misunderstanding what was happening here and it made it so clear.
Astral flying, wow, can people really do that or is it only in stories? So interested I think I need to research it.
Amber's story starts off so sad, then gets happy, then gets a whole lot scary, gosh really felt for her what a lot of things to go through. Luckily, she has wonderful Bryce watching her back and taking care of her.
Interesting story, fast moving, easy to read and a page turner.
August 28, 2019
The story was fast, speeding by to catch us up on what was going on. Once it hit a spot it went at a steady pace. I liked the characters Bryce and Amber. I thought they were great together, with a great connection, and chemistry. I didn’t like Mike from the start. I thought the book was really good, and it played out nicely. The story kept my interest till the end. I hope to read more books from the author. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
I got copy for an honest review.
Thank you for sharing your book with me.
I got copy for an honest review.
Thank you for sharing your book with me.
June 8, 2020
Delightfully original and realistic
Astral travelling realistic? Soul mates realistic? That part you will have to decide for yourself. Realistic was the reaction to losing a husband and a child in rapid succession. Having seen this happen to a colleague, the author was spot on in terms of the emotions involved. Bryce’s need to protect whilst believing he was her cousin spoke of something to come. And creepy stalkers are also only too real for some.
Either way, I have already bought Dark Karma, the next book. That should say it all.
Astral travelling realistic? Soul mates realistic? That part you will have to decide for yourself. Realistic was the reaction to losing a husband and a child in rapid succession. Having seen this happen to a colleague, the author was spot on in terms of the emotions involved. Bryce’s need to protect whilst believing he was her cousin spoke of something to come. And creepy stalkers are also only too real for some.
Either way, I have already bought Dark Karma, the next book. That should say it all.
November 22, 2020
Tough Karma: A Race Against Time is an amazing book. Even though I started with book #2, I was able to catch up with the story and to get to know the characters.
The characters are well developed and interesting, the plot well thought out. The story itself is very intriguing and a bit sad at times but definitely thrilling overall. It can keep your attention and make you want to read one more chapter and one more, and one more...
The book is well-written and the reading flow is pretty good.
I recommend it!
Christian
BooksShelf Reviewer
The characters are well developed and interesting, the plot well thought out. The story itself is very intriguing and a bit sad at times but definitely thrilling overall. It can keep your attention and make you want to read one more chapter and one more, and one more...
The book is well-written and the reading flow is pretty good.
I recommend it!
Christian
BooksShelf Reviewer
October 30, 2019
As soon as I swiped to the first page the story was already in full swing. There was never really a dull moment. I am having a hard time trying to explaining what I read. There was just so much going on, I wouldn't know where to start. I will be picking up the next book in this series to see how the story continues.
I Gave this FOUR stars because I did enjoy the storyline. It did lose one star because of there repetitiveness off and on throughout the book along with minor changes to minor details to the story.
I Gave this FOUR stars because I did enjoy the storyline. It did lose one star because of there repetitiveness off and on throughout the book along with minor changes to minor details to the story.
April 27, 2021
I enjoyed this astral travel suspense fantasy—excellent world-building and characters.
We follow the sad and tragic journey of Amber after the loss of her husband, then followed by her baby daughter. Amber wanted to give up. Her long-time friend and cousin Bryce made sure to stand by her in this difficult time.
With the revelation via a DNA test, Amber and Bryce discover they are not blood-related, allowing their blossoming relationship to progress and they become a couple. An old friend named Mike is caught up in his own fantasy, wanting and demanding a relationship only with Amber and abducts her.
With psychic assistance, Amber is saved. A new relationship comes to light, and someone disappears.
Read the book to find out who the new relationship is with and who disappears—worth the read.
We follow the sad and tragic journey of Amber after the loss of her husband, then followed by her baby daughter. Amber wanted to give up. Her long-time friend and cousin Bryce made sure to stand by her in this difficult time.
With the revelation via a DNA test, Amber and Bryce discover they are not blood-related, allowing their blossoming relationship to progress and they become a couple. An old friend named Mike is caught up in his own fantasy, wanting and demanding a relationship only with Amber and abducts her.
With psychic assistance, Amber is saved. A new relationship comes to light, and someone disappears.
Read the book to find out who the new relationship is with and who disappears—worth the read.
June 6, 2021
A fantasy romance with a heart-racing finish
I thoroughly enjoyed this romance with a paranormal twist that follows Bryce and Amber’ journey. Amber has suffered a tragedy and Bryce, as always, is there to offer a comforting shoulder, but soon he hopes to be able to offer more than his friendship. They have waited lifetimes to be together, but something always interfered. Will they be given a chance to find out this time or will they have to wait again for another lifetime?
I look forward to reading more of this series!
I thoroughly enjoyed this romance with a paranormal twist that follows Bryce and Amber’ journey. Amber has suffered a tragedy and Bryce, as always, is there to offer a comforting shoulder, but soon he hopes to be able to offer more than his friendship. They have waited lifetimes to be together, but something always interfered. Will they be given a chance to find out this time or will they have to wait again for another lifetime?
I look forward to reading more of this series!
June 4, 2017
Good Read
I love the story line and how the characters develop. The two main characters have been through so much but always seem to find each other in the end. Amber is so broken but the only person that can seem to keep her grounded is Bryce. The story does end with you wondering what going to happen next but I'm sure it will be an adventure.
I love the story line and how the characters develop. The two main characters have been through so much but always seem to find each other in the end. Amber is so broken but the only person that can seem to keep her grounded is Bryce. The story does end with you wondering what going to happen next but I'm sure it will be an adventure.
July 12, 2017
Great read
While there is a lit of explanatory writing, it seems to serve the purpose of being there for the next installment, plus it does move the story along. The trials and tribulations the main couple goes thru are extraordinary. The author has a great imagination. Well worth the read.
While there is a lit of explanatory writing, it seems to serve the purpose of being there for the next installment, plus it does move the story along. The trials and tribulations the main couple goes thru are extraordinary. The author has a great imagination. Well worth the read.
July 29, 2021
Fantastic
What a fantastic book. This isn't my normal choice of romance genre, but I'm so glad I read it and can't wait for the next one.
What a fantastic book. This isn't my normal choice of romance genre, but I'm so glad I read it and can't wait for the next one.
December 28, 2021
A captivating thriller story, that will conquer the reader's mind. Interesting and relatable characters, I was in love with Amber and Bryce's relationship from the very beginning. I am happy I gave that book a try!
April 21, 2017
Pleasantly Surprised
This was my first time reading Laura Simmons and I have to say I was pleasantly surprised by how good this was. Reincarnation is one mystery that has always fascinated me. Amber and Bryce were fated to be together. I didn't quite get the cousin storyline but was happy to learn that they were never blood relatives. Bryce and his big brother Luke are fiercely loyal to those they care about and I will be looking forward to reading all about him and Nina too.
This was my first time reading Laura Simmons and I have to say I was pleasantly surprised by how good this was. Reincarnation is one mystery that has always fascinated me. Amber and Bryce were fated to be together. I didn't quite get the cousin storyline but was happy to learn that they were never blood relatives. Bryce and his big brother Luke are fiercely loyal to those they care about and I will be looking forward to reading all about him and Nina too.
June 14, 2020
DISCLAIMER: I was lucky enough to receive this book from BookSirens on behalf of the author. This is in exchange for an honest and unbiased review. I hope the prospective reader will read this review fully before making any prejudgments on the book. I will give the book my thoughts, good and bad. Also, this review contains opinions that are my own and not the author’s. My thoughts will be different from your thoughts and just know that before reading the book. Lower in the review, I will talk about disclaimers in the book as well that you should read before opening the book.
Our story begins with Amber Macklin’s crashing world. Amber is stuck in what feels like an endless loop of grief. She looks around and sees no end. All she thinks is, what did I do to deserve this pain? She has to deal with the grief of her husband’s sudden death. Then three months later, her baby girl is ripped from her life. She is wandering through life lost and alone or so she thinks. Bryce is her shoulder to cry on. He has been her everything and she wants so much more than just a best friend bond. It is too bad that that he is her cousin. Then one DNA test happens and that could change everything. Soon after, Bryce’s friend Mike comes into their lives. Amber has a bad feeling about him and soon, everything takes a turn for the worst. Deadly secrets, a cat and mouse game, and a field of secrets are uncovered when Bryce takes a tour to investigate his college friend. Mike makes his move and Bryce has to save Amber. Will he get to her in time? Is there any hope for Bryce and Amber? Is Mike really the nice guy he pretends to be? Or will this chess game become a checkmate?
There is background in this story. I have to say that though this story can be read on its own, I would read the first one just so the reader can know everything. I feel as if at some points, I did have to play catch up. If you are willing to do that, then it can be a standalone novel. There were some holes missing in the background. I didn’t feel I knew enough about Bryce’s astral traveling before reading this. I think it was less about knowing what astral traveling is than anything else. Out of body experience was explained, but sometimes it was hard to follow when you are reading. Also, the plot seemed to have some areas where I felt disconnected from the story. I usually find it hard to stay connected with the story and not pulled away. This story made me feel as if I was having to be pulled back in a lot. It made for a slightly bumpy ride.
Even though the plot is important, the characters are my favorite. A wonderful character could lift a story up while a bad one can make a story hard to read. The hardest characters to right, in my opinion, are the deadly ones. Those people make a story more intense, but it could ruin it as well. There is a fine line in the stories that are being read with a wonderful antagonist and an awful one. The characters in this story were wonderfully written. Amber, I loved her from the very beginning. I felt her pain and grief. I saw a side to her that had guilt flowing through it. She was raw and real. The pain almost brought me to tears along with her. I felt a growing sense of urgency to secure her future and happiness. Bryce was amazing as well. He was the yin to Amber’s yang. In so many ways they were opposite, yet they matched each other so well. This is one of those stories that makes you root for them to be together. You sense this bond from chapter one, and they grow together. They don’t start as the perfect pair. They become the perfect pair. The hero, no pun intended, of this story was Mike. He oozed evil that a reader could just feel. You could feel it before anything happens. You feel the darkness that Amber does, and the twists just begin there. Mike must be one of my favorite antagonist characters that I have ever had the pleasure of reading.
What is this book like? I think it is dark and eerie at times, but that is not all the book has to offer. It does bring this light at the ending of the tunnel feel. It shows grief at its purest form and brings hope when all seems lost. This is a romantic suspense novel. I feel as if you do get every element of that is supposed to be. I feel the thrill side and also the love. While you are reading this book, the suspense will knock you back like a dark cloud, but I feel that you do get right back up. Overall, this was an enjoyable book to read.
This section is the disclaimer part of my review. This is where I will explain if there are three components that could potentially make a prospective reader slightly uncomfortable. They are violence, language, and explicit sexual scenes. I will describe how in depth the story goes with each topic. Violence is a large part of the story. In this case, it is necessary to read the violence to understand the in-depth world of the characters. I feel as if it is not something you can get away from. That being said, I do think it is tolerable. I don’t mind a lot of violence if it is justified and I believe in this case, it is completely justified. Language can be excessive in a novel. Especially when it is an overabundance of one or two words that are explicit in nature. I felt as if this story did not have an overabundance of cursing to the point of it being unrealistic and uncomfortable. Don’t get me wrong. There was cursing, but a rational amount in my opinion. There were some intimacy scenes. Some of them descriptive, but some of them were more of a description of past events. I do have to warn the prospective reader to look past the thought of Bryce and Amber being relatives. Although the author did describe wonderfully that they are not. Don’t get caught up in that moment because there is a chance you won’t find the book as enjoyable. There scenes that had intimacy were not overly descriptive and were not uncomfortable to read, but you could skip them if you desire to and not feel as if you’re missing out on the story.
My rating: This was a hard one to rate. While I did love it, I found there to be some holes that I felt like I just couldn’t get past. There was something missing. I do not feel the drive or urge to read the other books in the series. This was a quick read for me because I felt like I wanted to know more. This has to be my first supernatural romance where out of body experiences are a major part of the story. That did intrigue me. I feel as if the rating I have to give this book is 4 out 5 stars. While I love Bryce, Amber, and Mike, I did find this book lose me at some points. Also, I don’t know if this would be on my read again list. I know that I enjoyed this book, but I feel like I almost want more from it.
I hope this review helps you in making your next book choice. Happy reading!
Laura Simmons
Tough Karma: A Race Against Time
Our story begins with Amber Macklin’s crashing world. Amber is stuck in what feels like an endless loop of grief. She looks around and sees no end. All she thinks is, what did I do to deserve this pain? She has to deal with the grief of her husband’s sudden death. Then three months later, her baby girl is ripped from her life. She is wandering through life lost and alone or so she thinks. Bryce is her shoulder to cry on. He has been her everything and she wants so much more than just a best friend bond. It is too bad that that he is her cousin. Then one DNA test happens and that could change everything. Soon after, Bryce’s friend Mike comes into their lives. Amber has a bad feeling about him and soon, everything takes a turn for the worst. Deadly secrets, a cat and mouse game, and a field of secrets are uncovered when Bryce takes a tour to investigate his college friend. Mike makes his move and Bryce has to save Amber. Will he get to her in time? Is there any hope for Bryce and Amber? Is Mike really the nice guy he pretends to be? Or will this chess game become a checkmate?
There is background in this story. I have to say that though this story can be read on its own, I would read the first one just so the reader can know everything. I feel as if at some points, I did have to play catch up. If you are willing to do that, then it can be a standalone novel. There were some holes missing in the background. I didn’t feel I knew enough about Bryce’s astral traveling before reading this. I think it was less about knowing what astral traveling is than anything else. Out of body experience was explained, but sometimes it was hard to follow when you are reading. Also, the plot seemed to have some areas where I felt disconnected from the story. I usually find it hard to stay connected with the story and not pulled away. This story made me feel as if I was having to be pulled back in a lot. It made for a slightly bumpy ride.
Even though the plot is important, the characters are my favorite. A wonderful character could lift a story up while a bad one can make a story hard to read. The hardest characters to right, in my opinion, are the deadly ones. Those people make a story more intense, but it could ruin it as well. There is a fine line in the stories that are being read with a wonderful antagonist and an awful one. The characters in this story were wonderfully written. Amber, I loved her from the very beginning. I felt her pain and grief. I saw a side to her that had guilt flowing through it. She was raw and real. The pain almost brought me to tears along with her. I felt a growing sense of urgency to secure her future and happiness. Bryce was amazing as well. He was the yin to Amber’s yang. In so many ways they were opposite, yet they matched each other so well. This is one of those stories that makes you root for them to be together. You sense this bond from chapter one, and they grow together. They don’t start as the perfect pair. They become the perfect pair. The hero, no pun intended, of this story was Mike. He oozed evil that a reader could just feel. You could feel it before anything happens. You feel the darkness that Amber does, and the twists just begin there. Mike must be one of my favorite antagonist characters that I have ever had the pleasure of reading.
What is this book like? I think it is dark and eerie at times, but that is not all the book has to offer. It does bring this light at the ending of the tunnel feel. It shows grief at its purest form and brings hope when all seems lost. This is a romantic suspense novel. I feel as if you do get every element of that is supposed to be. I feel the thrill side and also the love. While you are reading this book, the suspense will knock you back like a dark cloud, but I feel that you do get right back up. Overall, this was an enjoyable book to read.
This section is the disclaimer part of my review. This is where I will explain if there are three components that could potentially make a prospective reader slightly uncomfortable. They are violence, language, and explicit sexual scenes. I will describe how in depth the story goes with each topic. Violence is a large part of the story. In this case, it is necessary to read the violence to understand the in-depth world of the characters. I feel as if it is not something you can get away from. That being said, I do think it is tolerable. I don’t mind a lot of violence if it is justified and I believe in this case, it is completely justified. Language can be excessive in a novel. Especially when it is an overabundance of one or two words that are explicit in nature. I felt as if this story did not have an overabundance of cursing to the point of it being unrealistic and uncomfortable. Don’t get me wrong. There was cursing, but a rational amount in my opinion. There were some intimacy scenes. Some of them descriptive, but some of them were more of a description of past events. I do have to warn the prospective reader to look past the thought of Bryce and Amber being relatives. Although the author did describe wonderfully that they are not. Don’t get caught up in that moment because there is a chance you won’t find the book as enjoyable. There scenes that had intimacy were not overly descriptive and were not uncomfortable to read, but you could skip them if you desire to and not feel as if you’re missing out on the story.
My rating: This was a hard one to rate. While I did love it, I found there to be some holes that I felt like I just couldn’t get past. There was something missing. I do not feel the drive or urge to read the other books in the series. This was a quick read for me because I felt like I wanted to know more. This has to be my first supernatural romance where out of body experiences are a major part of the story. That did intrigue me. I feel as if the rating I have to give this book is 4 out 5 stars. While I love Bryce, Amber, and Mike, I did find this book lose me at some points. Also, I don’t know if this would be on my read again list. I know that I enjoyed this book, but I feel like I almost want more from it.
I hope this review helps you in making your next book choice. Happy reading!
Laura Simmons
Tough Karma: A Race Against Time
February 7, 2017
This book will take you on a journey that will include tears, anger, love and a look at how much more our brains are capable of than we allow. It will make you think but in a good way. The characters are so great that I felt like I have known them and they are friends. The plot has so many dips and curves that it kept me on the edge of my seat and turning pages very fast! It does not end in a cliff hanger…exactly. It can be continued and the group of characters have some more stories, I am sure. (at least I hope so) I enjoyed the writing style, too. I have always been interested in psychic abilities and astral travel so this book is right up my alley. If you love a great love story, mystery and psychic abilities, this one is for you!! I will be looking for future books! I am a fan! VERY HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
February 6, 2017
Amber Macklin is no stranger to loss her husband died not too long ago. Now Amber losses her baby daughter unexpectedly. Amber doesn't want to be left alone so she's staying with her cousin Bryce Decker. Bryce has been in love with his cousin for years now but never acted on it either. Bryce wants to be there for Amber. When new information comes to light that suggests that Amber and Bryce are not in fact cousin ~changes everything for them. Bryce also can astral project himself. Amber does sleepwalking. How will astral projection and sleepwalking help them? Your answers await you in Tough Karma.
This book is very intriguing and unique too. The characters and story are compelling, complex, raw, gritty, honest, real, and with some flaws mixed in. Overall a very enjoyable book.
This book is very intriguing and unique too. The characters and story are compelling, complex, raw, gritty, honest, real, and with some flaws mixed in. Overall a very enjoyable book.
May 1, 2019
A thriller with astral projections, telekinesis and more. Follow Amber as she comes to terms with the events of the first book and finds out more about a friend than she really wanted to.
Although the second in the series this can be read as a stand alone story. The characters are brilliantly written and come to life on the page.
I recieved a copy of this book from ebook discovery in exchange for an honest and freely given review.
Although the second in the series this can be read as a stand alone story. The characters are brilliantly written and come to life on the page.
I recieved a copy of this book from ebook discovery in exchange for an honest and freely given review.
April 26, 2019
This book took me down a different supernatural road than normal with astral projection and telekinesis. It is a romantic thriller that kept me turning the pages. I received this book for free from eBook Discovery. I voluntarily review this book. This is my honest review.
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