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Safe Harbor #2
Hidden Threat
An environmental crisis is the last thing clean-water crusader Eve Jackson expected in her hometown. She’s used to taking on powerful DC politicians in her fight, but when a baby in Safe Harbor, Florida, shows mysterious signs of possible poisoning, the danger hits painfully close to home, stirring memories of her own mother’s death.
Eve’s search leads her to the Sutton Ranch, now run by her high school crush, Cole. Focused on keeping the family business afloat as a series of deformed calves are born to his herd, Cole has no time for Eve’s crusade. But as her unwelcome questioning ostracizes her from locals, Cole’s irritation turns to intrigue—about the source of the poisoned water and the tenacious, loyal, and passionate woman determined to help.
As Eve digs deeper into Cole’s operation, she sees her suspicion of Sutton Ranch may be misplaced. Yet she can’t shake the feeling that his ranch, and perhaps his past, hold the answers she seeks. When the sabotage escalates, the two must work together to uncover the culprit—if they can survive the investigation.
Eve’s search leads her to the Sutton Ranch, now run by her high school crush, Cole. Focused on keeping the family business afloat as a series of deformed calves are born to his herd, Cole has no time for Eve’s crusade. But as her unwelcome questioning ostracizes her from locals, Cole’s irritation turns to intrigue—about the source of the poisoned water and the tenacious, loyal, and passionate woman determined to help.
As Eve digs deeper into Cole’s operation, she sees her suspicion of Sutton Ranch may be misplaced. Yet she can’t shake the feeling that his ranch, and perhaps his past, hold the answers she seeks. When the sabotage escalates, the two must work together to uncover the culprit—if they can survive the investigation.
338 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 30, 2017
93 people are currently reading
345 people want to read
About the author
Connie Mann
15 books231 followersConnie Mann loves taking readers on heart-pounding, suspense-filled adventures featuring strong, determined women who fight for what they believe – and for those they love. Her Speranza Team novels center around a modern-day secret society of women who travel the globe helping other women, especially those trying to make the world a better place.
Connie is also the author of the Florida Wildlife Warriors series, the Safe Harbor series, Angel Falls and Trapped. She has won several writing awards and loves encouraging writers through mentoring and writing workshops.
Connie has been a USCG-licensed boat captain for 20 years and gets to introduce Florida visitors to dolphins and manatees, which is as much fun as it sounds. She is also passionate about helping women and children in developing countries break the poverty cycle through education and entrepreneurship.
She and her husband love spending time with family and friends and exploring new places, especially if they involve water and boats. Visit Connie online at www.conniemann.com and sign up for her newsletter for all the latest news.
Connie is also the author of the Florida Wildlife Warriors series, the Safe Harbor series, Angel Falls and Trapped. She has won several writing awards and loves encouraging writers through mentoring and writing workshops.
Connie has been a USCG-licensed boat captain for 20 years and gets to introduce Florida visitors to dolphins and manatees, which is as much fun as it sounds. She is also passionate about helping women and children in developing countries break the poverty cycle through education and entrepreneurship.
She and her husband love spending time with family and friends and exploring new places, especially if they involve water and boats. Visit Connie online at www.conniemann.com and sign up for her newsletter for all the latest news.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
June 13, 2017
Thanks to NetGalley for an opportunity to read and give an honest review.
This book will keep your attention, the pages turning and you guessing whodunit to the end.
Eve Jackson is an environmentalist living in the DC area. She began living with a foster family in Safe Harbor, FL as a teenager when her mother died of contaminated water while they were living in Chicago. Eve blames herself for her mother's death and has devoted her life to making sure that everyone has access to clean water. She rushes back to Safe Harbor after getting a call from her sister that their foster mother, Mama Rosa, was admitted to the hospital because of dehydration. She gets tangled up with environmental issues in Safe Harbor when Mama Rosa asks her to investigate the case of a baby getting sick of what could have been a water issue.
Cole Sutton, local football player in high school, was thrown off his family's ranch by his father at the end of high school because of a disagreement. He has since been in the military and then living on a ranch in Montana when his mom asked him to come home and run the family ranch after the death of his father. He and Eve run into again when her investigation leads her to the Sutton ranch and other local ranches. Eve and Cole did not depart on the best of terms back in high school when her passions for the environment caused problems on the ranch.
Things keep happening on the Sutton ranch that threaten the future of keeping the ranch afloat financially--one thing after another. Eve doesn't exactly get a warm welcome back to town and someone is trying get her to quit her investigation. Expect lots of suspense, action, family dynamics and romance in this book. Ms. Mann does a great job developing the characters and brings the story to life with her scene descriptions and dialogue.
I highly recommend this book.
This book will keep your attention, the pages turning and you guessing whodunit to the end.
Eve Jackson is an environmentalist living in the DC area. She began living with a foster family in Safe Harbor, FL as a teenager when her mother died of contaminated water while they were living in Chicago. Eve blames herself for her mother's death and has devoted her life to making sure that everyone has access to clean water. She rushes back to Safe Harbor after getting a call from her sister that their foster mother, Mama Rosa, was admitted to the hospital because of dehydration. She gets tangled up with environmental issues in Safe Harbor when Mama Rosa asks her to investigate the case of a baby getting sick of what could have been a water issue.
Cole Sutton, local football player in high school, was thrown off his family's ranch by his father at the end of high school because of a disagreement. He has since been in the military and then living on a ranch in Montana when his mom asked him to come home and run the family ranch after the death of his father. He and Eve run into again when her investigation leads her to the Sutton ranch and other local ranches. Eve and Cole did not depart on the best of terms back in high school when her passions for the environment caused problems on the ranch.
Things keep happening on the Sutton ranch that threaten the future of keeping the ranch afloat financially--one thing after another. Eve doesn't exactly get a warm welcome back to town and someone is trying get her to quit her investigation. Expect lots of suspense, action, family dynamics and romance in this book. Ms. Mann does a great job developing the characters and brings the story to life with her scene descriptions and dialogue.
I highly recommend this book.
December 31, 2020
Hidden Threat by Connie Mann revolves around Eve Jackson a clean water expert working for the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency). She heads back to Safe Harbor Florida on an emergency. While at the hospital she learns of a sick child who may have been poisoned.
During her investigation she runs into an old flame Cole Sutton, the embodiment of everything a cowboy is, strong, silent and caring. Cole's farm is suffering and the birth of a deformed calf is not helping. Desperate to save his ranch he joins Eve in her investigation. As Eve's investigation deepens the more perilous her positions and those she loves become.
I found Hidden Threat a great mystery with lots of suspense and a smattering of romance. Having never read any of Ms Mann's works I was glad to find she has great skill at creating characters I was able to relate to.
A nice smooth pace that works well at building suspense and yet never giving away at what is coming next. The story held my attention from start to finish without confusing me or losing me in too much unnecessary detail. Another touch that I liked very much was how the author does a great job of showing how important family is regardless of where individual members might stand and whether they are blood or not.
An absolute recommend for fans of a good mystery with some very tense moments.
During her investigation she runs into an old flame Cole Sutton, the embodiment of everything a cowboy is, strong, silent and caring. Cole's farm is suffering and the birth of a deformed calf is not helping. Desperate to save his ranch he joins Eve in her investigation. As Eve's investigation deepens the more perilous her positions and those she loves become.
I found Hidden Threat a great mystery with lots of suspense and a smattering of romance. Having never read any of Ms Mann's works I was glad to find she has great skill at creating characters I was able to relate to.
A nice smooth pace that works well at building suspense and yet never giving away at what is coming next. The story held my attention from start to finish without confusing me or losing me in too much unnecessary detail. Another touch that I liked very much was how the author does a great job of showing how important family is regardless of where individual members might stand and whether they are blood or not.
An absolute recommend for fans of a good mystery with some very tense moments.
June 1, 2017
I had no idea Hidden Threat was book 2 in a series because the author is able to bring readers up to date so quickly you have no idea it was an update.
Connie Mann writes a well spaced story about one woman willingness to stand up against the odds to do what it right. Readers will be able to see the research the author put into Hidden Threat but her love for the story.
From first to last page readers will be emotional invested in this story. Eve will put at the heart strings as she fights to give those hopeless hope. Readers learn family isn't always biological but is chosen. You will cry, cheer and fall in love with Eve in Hidden Threat by Connie Mann
Thank you to Netgalley for the advance Copy exchange for my honest thoughts
Connie Mann writes a well spaced story about one woman willingness to stand up against the odds to do what it right. Readers will be able to see the research the author put into Hidden Threat but her love for the story.
From first to last page readers will be emotional invested in this story. Eve will put at the heart strings as she fights to give those hopeless hope. Readers learn family isn't always biological but is chosen. You will cry, cheer and fall in love with Eve in Hidden Threat by Connie Mann
Thank you to Netgalley for the advance Copy exchange for my honest thoughts
May 6, 2017
An environmental crisis is the last thing clean-water crusader Eve Jackson expected in her hometown. She’s used to taking on powerful DC politicians in her fight, but when a baby in Safe Harbor, Florida, shows mysterious signs of possible poisoning, the danger hits painfully close to home, stirring memories of her own mother’s death.
Eve’s search leads her to the Sutton Ranch, now run by her high school crush, Cole. Focused on keeping the family business afloat as a series of deformed calves are born to his herd, Cole has no time for Eve’s crusade. But as her unwelcome questioning ostracizes her from locals, Cole’s irritation turns to intrigue—about the source of the poisoned water and the tenacious, loyal, and passionate woman determined to help.
As Eve digs deeper into Cole’s operation, she sees her suspicion of Sutton Ranch may be misplaced. Yet she can’t shake the feeling that his ranch, and perhaps his past, hold the answers she seeks. When the sabotage escalates, the two must work together to uncover the culprit—if they can survive the investigation.
Connie Mann knows how to do suspense. And she does it well. It's hard to put the book down when life intrudes. I loved the cowboy aspect of this story. Mann crafts her characters very well, so that the reader is able to become well invested in the story.
The suspense is wonderful! Connie Mann takes her readers on a roller coaster ride, hurtling along toward the finish line faster and faster! I enjoyed every minute. I am casting about in my mind trying to figure out whodunit and never did! And she has left us somewhat hanging, too, waiting for the next book. I can't wait!
*I was provided with a preview copy of this book. I was not pressured to leave a positive review and all my opinions are my own and honest.
Eve’s search leads her to the Sutton Ranch, now run by her high school crush, Cole. Focused on keeping the family business afloat as a series of deformed calves are born to his herd, Cole has no time for Eve’s crusade. But as her unwelcome questioning ostracizes her from locals, Cole’s irritation turns to intrigue—about the source of the poisoned water and the tenacious, loyal, and passionate woman determined to help.
As Eve digs deeper into Cole’s operation, she sees her suspicion of Sutton Ranch may be misplaced. Yet she can’t shake the feeling that his ranch, and perhaps his past, hold the answers she seeks. When the sabotage escalates, the two must work together to uncover the culprit—if they can survive the investigation.
Connie Mann knows how to do suspense. And she does it well. It's hard to put the book down when life intrudes. I loved the cowboy aspect of this story. Mann crafts her characters very well, so that the reader is able to become well invested in the story.
The suspense is wonderful! Connie Mann takes her readers on a roller coaster ride, hurtling along toward the finish line faster and faster! I enjoyed every minute. I am casting about in my mind trying to figure out whodunit and never did! And she has left us somewhat hanging, too, waiting for the next book. I can't wait!
*I was provided with a preview copy of this book. I was not pressured to leave a positive review and all my opinions are my own and honest.
June 28, 2018
Disappointing story
Over dramatic, gross inaccuracies about farm practices. Honestly I'm not sure why I finished it. Passive voice was over used. From a faith standpoint it was not an encouragement. Faith was mentioned but few of the main characters seemed to have genuine relationships with Christ.
Over dramatic, gross inaccuracies about farm practices. Honestly I'm not sure why I finished it. Passive voice was over used. From a faith standpoint it was not an encouragement. Faith was mentioned but few of the main characters seemed to have genuine relationships with Christ.
June 6, 2018
This series is about 3 women who grew up foster kids to Rosa and Sal Martinelli. Each had something traumatic happen in their childhoods that they still carry with them today as grown women.
Book two gives us Eve Jackson's story. She is an environmentalist who specializes in tainted water. This is something close to Eve's heart as bad water is what killed her mother and made her an orphan.
Eve returns to town after hearing Mama Rosa is in the hospital. Its here she learns there is a baby in the ICU showing signs of poisoning. As this is Eve's specialty she knows what to look for and sets out to see if the baby was made sick from the drinking water.
In her quest she comes across Cole Sutton – a man she crushed on in high school but accidentally caused an accident that changed the course of his life. Cole is back in Safe Harbor now that his father, who kicked him off the ranch and his home years ago, is dead to help his mother keep the ranch from going into foreclosure.
The deeper Eve looks into where and how the water could be tainted more bad things start to happen. Cole still harboring an attraction to Eve and wanting to protect her joins her in trying to figure out what and who is causing all the problems.
They are both shocked at what they discover..
Book two gives us Eve Jackson's story. She is an environmentalist who specializes in tainted water. This is something close to Eve's heart as bad water is what killed her mother and made her an orphan.
Eve returns to town after hearing Mama Rosa is in the hospital. Its here she learns there is a baby in the ICU showing signs of poisoning. As this is Eve's specialty she knows what to look for and sets out to see if the baby was made sick from the drinking water.
In her quest she comes across Cole Sutton – a man she crushed on in high school but accidentally caused an accident that changed the course of his life. Cole is back in Safe Harbor now that his father, who kicked him off the ranch and his home years ago, is dead to help his mother keep the ranch from going into foreclosure.
The deeper Eve looks into where and how the water could be tainted more bad things start to happen. Cole still harboring an attraction to Eve and wanting to protect her joins her in trying to figure out what and who is causing all the problems.
They are both shocked at what they discover..
May 30, 2017
When a baby gets very sick from suspected poisoned water, clean water activist Eve Jackson vows to do everything in her power to figure out the cause and make the guilty party pay. When three deformed calves are born on Cole Sutton's floundering ranch, he's desperate to find the cause and save the ranch. Eve and Cole's worlds collide when her investigation leads her straight to the Sutton Ranch.
Hidden Threat is the first Connie Mann book I've read and I devoured it as fast as I could. Though Tangled Lies is the first book in this series and some things that happened during it were discussed, I was never lost. It intrigued me enough to want to go read it, too!
I felt really bad for the way Eve was treated by a lot of the people in Safe Harbor. She's met with hostility, derision, and suspicion because of some mistakes she made as a teenager and her “environmental crusades”. She's looked at as “one of those tree huggers just looking for a cause”. I really admired her passion to her causes and standing up for what she believes in. She's a a strong woman and has a real determination to make the world a better place. Cole's a very admirable and stand up guy. He's the kind of trustworthy and steady leading man that I love to read about. They had great chemistry and I was rooting for them even though there's a bit of bad history and opposing viewpoints between them.
From the opening chapter, I was hooked. The real world faded away and I was sucked into the town of Safe Harbor. Mann does a great job at conveying the emotions of the characters in a way that I felt the exact same emotions, as well; disgust, infuriating anger, anxiety, excitement, terror, joy, anticipation... the list could go on and on. It was an intriguing thrill ride that consistently ramped up the suspense the further along into the book I read. It kept me guessing, too. There were quite a few suspects and I had no idea who the actual culprit was until the reveal. I would definitely, and highly, recommend Hidden Threat to any lover of suspense!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Netgalley and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my own honest opinion.
Hidden Threat is the first Connie Mann book I've read and I devoured it as fast as I could. Though Tangled Lies is the first book in this series and some things that happened during it were discussed, I was never lost. It intrigued me enough to want to go read it, too!
I felt really bad for the way Eve was treated by a lot of the people in Safe Harbor. She's met with hostility, derision, and suspicion because of some mistakes she made as a teenager and her “environmental crusades”. She's looked at as “one of those tree huggers just looking for a cause”. I really admired her passion to her causes and standing up for what she believes in. She's a a strong woman and has a real determination to make the world a better place. Cole's a very admirable and stand up guy. He's the kind of trustworthy and steady leading man that I love to read about. They had great chemistry and I was rooting for them even though there's a bit of bad history and opposing viewpoints between them.
From the opening chapter, I was hooked. The real world faded away and I was sucked into the town of Safe Harbor. Mann does a great job at conveying the emotions of the characters in a way that I felt the exact same emotions, as well; disgust, infuriating anger, anxiety, excitement, terror, joy, anticipation... the list could go on and on. It was an intriguing thrill ride that consistently ramped up the suspense the further along into the book I read. It kept me guessing, too. There were quite a few suspects and I had no idea who the actual culprit was until the reveal. I would definitely, and highly, recommend Hidden Threat to any lover of suspense!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Netgalley and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my own honest opinion.
May 28, 2017
Hidden Threat is the second book in a series based in Safe Harbor, Florida. In the first book, we learned about Sasha. This book is her sister Eve’s story.
I won’t retell the story because the description (from the back of the book) does a fantastic job. Connie Mann once again spins an edge-of-your-seat, blow-to-the-gut story that masterfully entwines people and details without away the twists, all while encompassing what it means to be family, biological or chosen. She blends the first book into this story to keep the family members interactive, yet in such a way that Hidden Threat could be read first. All of the characters are unique and powerful - and real with their imperfections and idiosyncrasies.
Eve’s story shows how willing one person will go to stand up for what’s right and just, regardless of the personal sacrifices those actions may cause.
I highly recommend that you meet Eve. Enjoy the roller coaster as you cheer for her, cry for her, and look for a baseball bat to give her a hand.
I received an advanced copy of Hidden Threat so that I could leave a review, and it is my pleasure to do so. Connie Mann is an author that doesn’t pull punches with her suspense – or her ability to make you connect with the residents of Safe Harbor.
I won’t retell the story because the description (from the back of the book) does a fantastic job. Connie Mann once again spins an edge-of-your-seat, blow-to-the-gut story that masterfully entwines people and details without away the twists, all while encompassing what it means to be family, biological or chosen. She blends the first book into this story to keep the family members interactive, yet in such a way that Hidden Threat could be read first. All of the characters are unique and powerful - and real with their imperfections and idiosyncrasies.
Eve’s story shows how willing one person will go to stand up for what’s right and just, regardless of the personal sacrifices those actions may cause.
I highly recommend that you meet Eve. Enjoy the roller coaster as you cheer for her, cry for her, and look for a baseball bat to give her a hand.
I received an advanced copy of Hidden Threat so that I could leave a review, and it is my pleasure to do so. Connie Mann is an author that doesn’t pull punches with her suspense – or her ability to make you connect with the residents of Safe Harbor.
May 30, 2017
I’m so happy that romantic-suspense author Connie Mann takes us back to the Florida town and the endearing Martinelli family that she introduced in Safe Harbor Book #1: TANGLED LIES—but you don’t have to have read the first book in this series to enjoy the second.
HIDDEN THREAT features another of the Martinelli’s former foster children, environmentalist Eve Jackson, who is living in D.C. at the start of the story. She’s passionate about her work because of something from her childhood that will cause you to empathize with her. She returns to Safe Harbor because she is driven to uncover what happened to a sick child and who is responsible.
Eve’s investigation is full of danger, suspense, a complicated but irresistible sweet romance, and the dynamics of a loving but imperfect family. The story also has a bit of the Florida brand of southern, including a cattle ranch and a handsome cowboy with his own complex past.
I wholeheartedly recommend this novel!
HIDDEN THREAT features another of the Martinelli’s former foster children, environmentalist Eve Jackson, who is living in D.C. at the start of the story. She’s passionate about her work because of something from her childhood that will cause you to empathize with her. She returns to Safe Harbor because she is driven to uncover what happened to a sick child and who is responsible.
Eve’s investigation is full of danger, suspense, a complicated but irresistible sweet romance, and the dynamics of a loving but imperfect family. The story also has a bit of the Florida brand of southern, including a cattle ranch and a handsome cowboy with his own complex past.
I wholeheartedly recommend this novel!
May 21, 2017
Once again, Ms Mann takes us back to Safe Harbor . This time the story is about another of the foster girls the Martinellis took under their wings. This family is a complicated one, but one that sticks together no matter what.
Eve Jackson , now working to protect the environment goes home when her foster mother returns to the hospital due to a relapse from her illness. Mama Rosa asks her investigate the illness of a baby in their town. Our other main character is Cole Sutton , a rancher that is back in town to help his mother with the family ranch. These two have a history and reconnect when Eva suspects his ranch is causing the baby's illness.
It's an engaging story filled with intrigue, whodunit, family dynamics, revenge, environmental issues and a budding romance. It is also a story that highlights the fact that what we experience in our childhood can affect us so much as an adult that at times it inhibits us from being a happy , fulfilled individual.
Another worthwhile story by a very talented author.
I was gifted this book by Netgalley. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
Eve Jackson , now working to protect the environment goes home when her foster mother returns to the hospital due to a relapse from her illness. Mama Rosa asks her investigate the illness of a baby in their town. Our other main character is Cole Sutton , a rancher that is back in town to help his mother with the family ranch. These two have a history and reconnect when Eva suspects his ranch is causing the baby's illness.
It's an engaging story filled with intrigue, whodunit, family dynamics, revenge, environmental issues and a budding romance. It is also a story that highlights the fact that what we experience in our childhood can affect us so much as an adult that at times it inhibits us from being a happy , fulfilled individual.
Another worthwhile story by a very talented author.
I was gifted this book by Netgalley. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
May 25, 2017
Hidden Threat, part 2 in the series about the Martinelli foster kids, is a fantastic book on several levels:
>It has a good basic story with a compelling plot.
>Fast-paced with lots of action and twists & turns
>Believable dialog and smooth, readable narrative
>Characters who are likable and easy to relate to because of their imperfections
>A satisfying ending
I can't wait to read the next in the series.
I would recommend this book to any woman - or man - who wants to escape the frustrations of real life and enter the world of camaraderie & friendship, love, secrets, and dangers of Safe Harbor.
>It has a good basic story with a compelling plot.
>Fast-paced with lots of action and twists & turns
>Believable dialog and smooth, readable narrative
>Characters who are likable and easy to relate to because of their imperfections
>A satisfying ending
I can't wait to read the next in the series.
I would recommend this book to any woman - or man - who wants to escape the frustrations of real life and enter the world of camaraderie & friendship, love, secrets, and dangers of Safe Harbor.
May 29, 2017
Once again Connie Mann has written a suspenseful exciting book! From the moment I started reading I didn't want to put it down. I thought I had the mystery figured out a number of times, but another turn of events occurs and I was guessing yet again! The characters and story line are believable with things you just don't see coming! Mann keeps you on the edge of your seat for the entire book. I love how she writes a believable mystery/romance story that is appropriate for anyone to read. This is another great story that you won't want to miss!
May 23, 2017
I received an ARC via Netgalley and this is my unbiased review.
Hidden Threat is another great suspense/romance by a very talented author. This book is well written with a great plot and believably characters. This book's setting is Safe Harbor, Florida on the Gulf Coast, I enjoyed revisiting this small town. I highly recommend if you are a fan of good clean suspense.
Hidden Threat is another great suspense/romance by a very talented author. This book is well written with a great plot and believably characters. This book's setting is Safe Harbor, Florida on the Gulf Coast, I enjoyed revisiting this small town. I highly recommend if you are a fan of good clean suspense.
May 21, 2017
The only reason I have this book 4 stars instead of 5 if that the story started out very slow and I had a hard time getting into it. But once I did...It was fantastic!! Don't miss out on this book!!!
May 30, 2017
Another of the lost foster kids the Martinellis took in is still trying to find her way. Eve Jackson, do-gooder and trouble maker rolled into one, has returned home to help Mama Rosa recover from cancer. Will the town be able to recover from her overzealous attempts to protect the environment and one special baby, or will all be lost, including a couple of lonesome hearts?
Cole Sutton struck me as a thornbird. Eve has hurt him badly in the past. She is likely to do so again, yet Cole cannot seem to stay away. Can he and Eve find peace while Cole is also defending his ranch against an unknown foe?
I honestly did not like Eve at first. She is impulsive, making decisions for others based on her world views alone, careening over others' needs and plans.
Typically, if I have this much dislike for a heroine at the start of a book, I just do not care for the novel. Connie Mann does the near impossible for me- takes a despised heroine and weaves her prosaic magic until I am a big fan of both Cole and his semi-nemesis, Eve.
I received this book from the author and NetGalley. I am voluntarily leaving an unbiased review,for which opinions I am solely responsible.
Cole Sutton struck me as a thornbird. Eve has hurt him badly in the past. She is likely to do so again, yet Cole cannot seem to stay away. Can he and Eve find peace while Cole is also defending his ranch against an unknown foe?
I honestly did not like Eve at first. She is impulsive, making decisions for others based on her world views alone, careening over others' needs and plans.
Typically, if I have this much dislike for a heroine at the start of a book, I just do not care for the novel. Connie Mann does the near impossible for me- takes a despised heroine and weaves her prosaic magic until I am a big fan of both Cole and his semi-nemesis, Eve.
I received this book from the author and NetGalley. I am voluntarily leaving an unbiased review,for which opinions I am solely responsible.
May 10, 2017
Environmental Warrior falls for Florida Cowboy
Eve Jackson travels to her home town, and back into the arms of her high school crush, Cole Sutton. While investigating what caused a local child’s illness, she uncovers a festering grudge that endangers all she holds dear.
Eve is used to fighting her own battles, but in Cole, she finds the hero she’s unknowingly been waiting for. Together, they face danger head on, on the road to happy ever after!
Eve Jackson travels to her home town, and back into the arms of her high school crush, Cole Sutton. While investigating what caused a local child’s illness, she uncovers a festering grudge that endangers all she holds dear.
Eve is used to fighting her own battles, but in Cole, she finds the hero she’s unknowingly been waiting for. Together, they face danger head on, on the road to happy ever after!
June 24, 2017
Eve Jackson is in trouble at work—she’s accused a Congressman of illegally dumping chemicals, and her boss at Bradford Environmental isn’t pleased. And her foster mother is ill, so she returns home to Safe Harbor, Florida. Once home, she’s immediately pulled into an investigation into an ill baby. It could be a heart defect, but it could also be nitrate poisoning from the water. Yes, there are echoes of Erin Brockovich, which appealed to me.
Eve is passionate about her cause because her mother died as a result of drinking contaminated water. This passion is good—but it’s apparent early on that she’s a character with more than a few rough edges. If there is a diplomatic way to say something, Eve says the opposite. She’s a loose cannon who appears happy to trespass if it means getting the evidence she wants.
This meant much of the story conflict was caused by Eve, and made her a hard character to like, or even empathise with. I prefer stories where the lead character triumphs over external adversity rather than being the creator of said adversity. I know she had a rough upbringing, but surely someone told her you catch more flies with honey than with vinegar?
The result was the fast pace of the suspense plot was interrupted by too many eye-rolling moments, like Eve getting upset when people object to her abrasive demands, or Eve getting upset after her designer sandals set stuck in the mud on a visit to a farm. It also affected my enjoyment of the romance part of the plot. I didn’t see any mutual attraction between Eve and Cole, although that could have been more that I couldn’t see what Cole saw in her.
The result was a romantic suspense novel that took me far too long to read, because it was too easy to put down. The plot had real potential and the final reveal of the evildoer was well done. But I wasn’t convinced by the characters.
I didn’t know Hidden Threat was part of a series when I asked to review it. It soon became obvious from some of the hints of backstory. This didn’t affect the story except in meaning there were a lot of minor characters (which I guess were major characters in the previous book). It’s possible that I might have had warmer feelings for Eve—and therefore Hidden Threat in general--if I had read the earlier book first.
Thanks to Waterfall Press and NetGalley for providing a free ebook for review.
Eve is passionate about her cause because her mother died as a result of drinking contaminated water. This passion is good—but it’s apparent early on that she’s a character with more than a few rough edges. If there is a diplomatic way to say something, Eve says the opposite. She’s a loose cannon who appears happy to trespass if it means getting the evidence she wants.
This meant much of the story conflict was caused by Eve, and made her a hard character to like, or even empathise with. I prefer stories where the lead character triumphs over external adversity rather than being the creator of said adversity. I know she had a rough upbringing, but surely someone told her you catch more flies with honey than with vinegar?
The result was the fast pace of the suspense plot was interrupted by too many eye-rolling moments, like Eve getting upset when people object to her abrasive demands, or Eve getting upset after her designer sandals set stuck in the mud on a visit to a farm. It also affected my enjoyment of the romance part of the plot. I didn’t see any mutual attraction between Eve and Cole, although that could have been more that I couldn’t see what Cole saw in her.
The result was a romantic suspense novel that took me far too long to read, because it was too easy to put down. The plot had real potential and the final reveal of the evildoer was well done. But I wasn’t convinced by the characters.
I didn’t know Hidden Threat was part of a series when I asked to review it. It soon became obvious from some of the hints of backstory. This didn’t affect the story except in meaning there were a lot of minor characters (which I guess were major characters in the previous book). It’s possible that I might have had warmer feelings for Eve—and therefore Hidden Threat in general--if I had read the earlier book first.
Thanks to Waterfall Press and NetGalley for providing a free ebook for review.
August 24, 2017
Eve Jackson believes wholeheartedly in clean water for everyone. But her activist past in her adopted home town made her the girl who cost their football hero his scholarship. But after a decade away, surely there will be a slightly warmer welcome waiting her?
But when visiting her sick adoptive mother, Eve finds out a young baby has been poisoned and once again she find herself at odds with the townsfolk as she begins to investigate.
Cole Sutton has his own problems. He has taken over the running of the family ranch but he has malformed calves and he is about to fault on a loan taken out by his late father. But when hurricane Eve sneaks about the ranch, initially believing that the poison must be coming from his farm, the years roll back to when Eve was involved in the "calf caper" but now he may just get the girl, not just an injured arm!
I hadn't read the first book in the series and I was in no way hindered by that. I slipped neatly into the narrative and understood where the characters belonged. The twisty plot was good cos no sooner than I thought I knew who the bad guy was, I changed my mind when a new bit of evidence came to light! I love having to wait to the end of a book for the solution rather than figuring out in 2 mins flat.
Eve puts up with a lot in this book, least of all her towns reaction to her mixed race appearance and her environmentalist escapades. Cole was the golden boy who never quite managed to attain the greatness they wanted for him, another nail in the coffin of Eve's popularity.
I loves Eve's family of the heart and I cannot wait to see what is going on with her mysterious sister, Cat!
But when visiting her sick adoptive mother, Eve finds out a young baby has been poisoned and once again she find herself at odds with the townsfolk as she begins to investigate.
Cole Sutton has his own problems. He has taken over the running of the family ranch but he has malformed calves and he is about to fault on a loan taken out by his late father. But when hurricane Eve sneaks about the ranch, initially believing that the poison must be coming from his farm, the years roll back to when Eve was involved in the "calf caper" but now he may just get the girl, not just an injured arm!
I hadn't read the first book in the series and I was in no way hindered by that. I slipped neatly into the narrative and understood where the characters belonged. The twisty plot was good cos no sooner than I thought I knew who the bad guy was, I changed my mind when a new bit of evidence came to light! I love having to wait to the end of a book for the solution rather than figuring out in 2 mins flat.
Eve puts up with a lot in this book, least of all her towns reaction to her mixed race appearance and her environmentalist escapades. Cole was the golden boy who never quite managed to attain the greatness they wanted for him, another nail in the coffin of Eve's popularity.
I loves Eve's family of the heart and I cannot wait to see what is going on with her mysterious sister, Cat!
June 11, 2017
Semi-Decent read...
An eco-warrior comes home to help and has to come to terms with her past and the man whose future she believed she ruined while practicing an act of activism years ago.
Story was okay, had many little layers because this a part of a series.....was a little distracting since I hadn't read the other books.
Inconsistencies in character bothered me-Eve is a Prius-driving eco-warrior who has spent more than her adult life working for the greater good for animals, our planet and people on it. The author even goes so far as to have a scene revealing she is vegetarian (she and cowboy hunk Cole go out to eat) but later on has her making and eating bacon!!! Ugh. (Personally upset my vegan self)
HEA should have come pages before it did, felt like author was trying to hit a certain word or page count by the end. And I really found it unbelievable that they'd jump there after only kissing, what....like 3-4 times? No time to really get to know each other (it was stressed, more than once, that they didn't really know each other as teens)....there were plenty of missed opportunities to write in some but it never happened.
Having said that...I've been reading "trashy romance" novels since I was a kid and this wasn't anywhere near the worst. It's a quick fluff read (if you don't wanna read the series, skipping over some of the sisters issues may work for you) with a happy ending. And sometimes that's exactly what's needed.
In compliance with FTC guidelines, I am disclosing that I received the book for free through Goodreads First Reads.
An eco-warrior comes home to help and has to come to terms with her past and the man whose future she believed she ruined while practicing an act of activism years ago.
Story was okay, had many little layers because this a part of a series.....was a little distracting since I hadn't read the other books.
Inconsistencies in character bothered me-Eve is a Prius-driving eco-warrior who has spent more than her adult life working for the greater good for animals, our planet and people on it. The author even goes so far as to have a scene revealing she is vegetarian (she and cowboy hunk Cole go out to eat) but later on has her making and eating bacon!!! Ugh. (Personally upset my vegan self)
HEA should have come pages before it did, felt like author was trying to hit a certain word or page count by the end. And I really found it unbelievable that they'd jump there after only kissing, what....like 3-4 times? No time to really get to know each other (it was stressed, more than once, that they didn't really know each other as teens)....there were plenty of missed opportunities to write in some but it never happened.
Having said that...I've been reading "trashy romance" novels since I was a kid and this wasn't anywhere near the worst. It's a quick fluff read (if you don't wanna read the series, skipping over some of the sisters issues may work for you) with a happy ending. And sometimes that's exactly what's needed.
In compliance with FTC guidelines, I am disclosing that I received the book for free through Goodreads First Reads.
June 18, 2017
The author's writing is solid and clean. Her character's are well defined. However, her protagonist crosses the line from driven to obsessive. While the story is somewhat front page, the protagonist doesn't seem to care if some people are hurt so long as she gets the information she wants and NO ONE is above suspicion. I find it a sad way to live. Our protagonist jumps to the conclusion that there can be only one answer, before there is any evidence and begins searching and accusing anyone and everyone before the diagnosis is even confirmed. The author tries to hide it all under the urgency of "trying to save a child's life" but in reality, it just came across as preachy, tree-hugger, the end justifies the means even if the protagonist is hurting or violating others' rights.
In fact, most of the plots I read in this type of genre, this protagonist is the character we would have written as either the main problem or the kooky, whacked-out interferer who makes it difficult for the authorities or the protagonist to solve the mystery.
That being said, the subject of the story is one that every person on the planet should take seriously. The issue requires self-check and dedication to our world. But obsessive, I'm right and your wrong attitudes only make many people decide they just don't want to listen anymore.
In fact, most of the plots I read in this type of genre, this protagonist is the character we would have written as either the main problem or the kooky, whacked-out interferer who makes it difficult for the authorities or the protagonist to solve the mystery.
That being said, the subject of the story is one that every person on the planet should take seriously. The issue requires self-check and dedication to our world. But obsessive, I'm right and your wrong attitudes only make many people decide they just don't want to listen anymore.
June 25, 2017
Hidden Threat by Connie Mann is the second book in the Safe Harbor trilogy. This book continues the following of one of the foster children the Martinelli's raised. It is set in Safe Harbor, Florida with a ranch setting which will make all of the western and cowboy fans happy. This book is about Eva who is environmentalist living in Washing ton, D, C and comes back to investigate why a child got sick. It is an adventure that keeps your attention. Her high school crush is involved and he is a cowboy and a rancher. It is well written and developed characters. I look forward to reading more books by Connie Mann as this is my first book by her.
I received a copy thru a Goodreads Giveaway.
I received a copy thru a Goodreads Giveaway.
April 20, 2018
Another great Safe Harbor Adventure!
This is the second book in Connie Mann's Safe Harbor series. It starts not long after the ending of the first book. It is the story of Eve and Cole, that starts when Eve is called back home to Safe Harbor. Although she returns because her foster mother, Mama Rosa is in the hospital fighting her cancer, she begins to investigate the poisoning of a child. As an environmental investigator, she looks into what might be causing the issues in that area.
The story follows Eve as she tries to uncover these issues and gets reacquainted with former high school heart throb, Cole who has returned to run his family's ranch. While she looks into how this child became sick, Cole is working on his own problems on his ranch. Their relationship develops as does their investigation.
It was a good romance with an interesting plot around environmental issues. It also continued the story of the Martinelli family.
This is the second book in Connie Mann's Safe Harbor series. It starts not long after the ending of the first book. It is the story of Eve and Cole, that starts when Eve is called back home to Safe Harbor. Although she returns because her foster mother, Mama Rosa is in the hospital fighting her cancer, she begins to investigate the poisoning of a child. As an environmental investigator, she looks into what might be causing the issues in that area.
The story follows Eve as she tries to uncover these issues and gets reacquainted with former high school heart throb, Cole who has returned to run his family's ranch. While she looks into how this child became sick, Cole is working on his own problems on his ranch. Their relationship develops as does their investigation.
It was a good romance with an interesting plot around environmental issues. It also continued the story of the Martinelli family.
July 28, 2017
I received a copy of this book in a Goodreads giveaway.
I went into this expecting something like a Mariah Stewart novel- with romantic overtones, but also with a good dose of mystery and suspense. Unfortunately, this was a straight up romance novel disguised as something else. If that's what you're into, it's probably a harmless enough read, but I found it painfully cheesy and predictable. I liked the storyline about baby Glory and would have enjoyed it much more if that had gone deeper, but overall I had a hard time staying interested and by the end I was mostly skimming through just to get it over with.
I went into this expecting something like a Mariah Stewart novel- with romantic overtones, but also with a good dose of mystery and suspense. Unfortunately, this was a straight up romance novel disguised as something else. If that's what you're into, it's probably a harmless enough read, but I found it painfully cheesy and predictable. I liked the storyline about baby Glory and would have enjoyed it much more if that had gone deeper, but overall I had a hard time staying interested and by the end I was mostly skimming through just to get it over with.
June 4, 2017
Safe Harbor, that's such a misnomer.
Eve comes home with her tail tucked between her legs after an environmental investigation blows up on her. She isn't home 5 minutes before her adopted mother has her investigating a poisoning of a friends baby. Clues lead her to Cal Sutton, a blast from her past. Working together lands them in hot water, both professionally and personally. They both have to learn to forgive themselves for their pasts before they can have a future. There are a lot of hints and unanswered questions which I hope will mean more books.
Eve comes home with her tail tucked between her legs after an environmental investigation blows up on her. She isn't home 5 minutes before her adopted mother has her investigating a poisoning of a friends baby. Clues lead her to Cal Sutton, a blast from her past. Working together lands them in hot water, both professionally and personally. They both have to learn to forgive themselves for their pasts before they can have a future. There are a lot of hints and unanswered questions which I hope will mean more books.
July 12, 2018
This book opened my mind to the environmental side of water. Eve is prickly, but her character fits her upbringing. The layering of characters from the first book were well written, but this could easily be read as a stand alone. The character of her sister Blaze really develops. Cole was dreamy! As for the suspense, I really didn't know whodunnit and it kept me reading! Enjoyable read. Looking forward to reading the newly released third book.
November 14, 2018
Eve reliving the helplessness, the over whelming guilty, for having given her mother a glass of water and she died. Now seeing this young woman, with a child sick, and doctors have no answers. Telling Celia she worked for an environmental agency in DC, and wanted to check her place. Was it a source of nitrates. Cole was back trying to save his father’s ranch, with another calf born and being deformed. With this happening there was no way he could get it out of the red.
August 21, 2022
HIDDEN THREAT by Connie Mann, book 2 of the Safe Harbor series
When Eve returns to her Florida hometown, she’s determined to find the source of poisoned water that harmed a baby, but her unwelcome questioning ostracizes her from locals. A dangerous enemy threatens not just her but her family.
Hidden Threat is a romantic thriller with suspense and danger in a small town. I couldn't put it down.
When Eve returns to her Florida hometown, she’s determined to find the source of poisoned water that harmed a baby, but her unwelcome questioning ostracizes her from locals. A dangerous enemy threatens not just her but her family.
Hidden Threat is a romantic thriller with suspense and danger in a small town. I couldn't put it down.
July 1, 2017
This was a good book to curl up with when I had a couple of days off. It had a bit of everything, moved along at a good clip, had enough twists and turns to keep it interesting, had many relatable characters, and tied everything up at the end. All in all I found it to be a solid book that I enjoyed reading.
August 16, 2017
Glad I didn't buy it
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The premise of the book sounded good and I wanted to like it. I just couldn't get past the cheesy and cliché writing. Perhaps others will enjoy it. I just couldn't and didn't want to waste my time on it after the first couple chapters.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The premise of the book sounded good and I wanted to like it. I just couldn't get past the cheesy and cliché writing. Perhaps others will enjoy it. I just couldn't and didn't want to waste my time on it after the first couple chapters.
August 19, 2017
Hidden Threat was a fast paced suspense thriller that kept me on the edge of my seat. I haven't read book one in the series so I was a little lost on some issues but all in all, I really enjoyed it. I'm ready to now go see what I missed in the first book with Sasha and Jesse! I highly recommend this to everyone for an exciting adventure.
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