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Elemental Evidence #2
Burning Boundaries
Their passion isn't the only thing creating flames.
Mari Gale's life has been a whirlwind since meeting Jake Chivis. A new job prospect and his mother's health preoccupy him, so when Jake invites him on a date he's ready to cut loose. Their night out turns into a nightmare when a fire breaks out in the basement of the bar and they barely escape.
Soon Jake learns that the horrific accident is being investigated as a possible homicide, and it's not the only case. Detective Inspector Cordiline of the London Met hints at spontaneous human combustion, but as far as Jake knows, SHC doesn't exist.
When Mari looks into a group called Birthright, he finds a connection to the victims of the fires and Jake risks himself to go undercover at the shadowy organization. The race is on to determine the truth before Jake becomes the next target.
Mari Gale's life has been a whirlwind since meeting Jake Chivis. A new job prospect and his mother's health preoccupy him, so when Jake invites him on a date he's ready to cut loose. Their night out turns into a nightmare when a fire breaks out in the basement of the bar and they barely escape.
Soon Jake learns that the horrific accident is being investigated as a possible homicide, and it's not the only case. Detective Inspector Cordiline of the London Met hints at spontaneous human combustion, but as far as Jake knows, SHC doesn't exist.
When Mari looks into a group called Birthright, he finds a connection to the victims of the fires and Jake risks himself to go undercover at the shadowy organization. The race is on to determine the truth before Jake becomes the next target.
257 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 4, 2017
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
July 15, 2017
4.5 out of 5 stars
Description ~
Their passion isn't the only thing creating flames.
Mari Gale's life has been a whirlwind since meeting Jake Chivis. A new job prospect and his mother's health preoccupy him, so when Jake invites him on a date he's ready to cut loose. Their night out turns into a nightmare when a fire breaks out in the basement of the bar and they barely escape.
Soon Jake learns that the horrific accident is being investigated as a possible homicide, and it's not the only case. Detective Inspector Cordiline of the London Met hints at spontaneous human combustion but as far as Jake knows, SHC doesn't exist.
When Mari looks into a group called Birthright he finds a connection to the victims of the fires and Jake risks himself to go undercover at the shadowy organization. The race is on to determine the truth before Jake becomes the next target.
Reader Advisory: This book contains a non-consensual scene.
My Review ~
Burning Boundaries is the second book in the Elemental Evidence series. For full reading enjoyment I highly suggest reading the books in order. However, prior to reading I did ask if it was necessary to read book #1 and was told that it wasn't. I didn't miss any pertinent aspects from the first book to this one, but there were things mentioned in the story that would have been better after reading the previous book.
Just from reading the blurb on this book, I was excited. Both of the main characters grabbed my attention, and that did not change after reading the book. Mari and Jake are both very complex characters, with hidden aspects, and both exhibit growth and change throughout the story. I also really liked that they had very different personalities, and divergent life experiences. These two characters truly compliment each other because of those aspects.
This story was the type of story that just grabs you into it and doesn't let you go very easy. In other words.. I didn't want to really put it down, even when necessary. I wanted to constantly see what was going to happen next with both Jake and Mari, and the storyline itself. Burning Boundaries is on that fine line of an Urban Fantasy book, with high romantic elements. Which for me is the best of both worlds. I love urban fantasy books, that there is a possibility of more walking around in plain sight is one thing that intrigues the hell out of me. You could also call this a paranormal romance, because the romance is as important to the storyline as the action/mystery of the story's conflict.
So truly Burning Boundaries offers something for both UF fans, and Paranormal Romance fans, and even romantic suspense fans with the thread of mystery running throughout the story. This is another book that I would highly recommend other readers to grab and devour for their summer or even fall reading enjoyment. I have actually picked up the first book and will read that in the near future and then may even revisit this story afterward.
I look forward to the future books in this series.
Description ~
Their passion isn't the only thing creating flames.
Mari Gale's life has been a whirlwind since meeting Jake Chivis. A new job prospect and his mother's health preoccupy him, so when Jake invites him on a date he's ready to cut loose. Their night out turns into a nightmare when a fire breaks out in the basement of the bar and they barely escape.
Soon Jake learns that the horrific accident is being investigated as a possible homicide, and it's not the only case. Detective Inspector Cordiline of the London Met hints at spontaneous human combustion but as far as Jake knows, SHC doesn't exist.
When Mari looks into a group called Birthright he finds a connection to the victims of the fires and Jake risks himself to go undercover at the shadowy organization. The race is on to determine the truth before Jake becomes the next target.
Reader Advisory: This book contains a non-consensual scene.
My Review ~
Burning Boundaries is the second book in the Elemental Evidence series. For full reading enjoyment I highly suggest reading the books in order. However, prior to reading I did ask if it was necessary to read book #1 and was told that it wasn't. I didn't miss any pertinent aspects from the first book to this one, but there were things mentioned in the story that would have been better after reading the previous book.
Just from reading the blurb on this book, I was excited. Both of the main characters grabbed my attention, and that did not change after reading the book. Mari and Jake are both very complex characters, with hidden aspects, and both exhibit growth and change throughout the story. I also really liked that they had very different personalities, and divergent life experiences. These two characters truly compliment each other because of those aspects.
This story was the type of story that just grabs you into it and doesn't let you go very easy. In other words.. I didn't want to really put it down, even when necessary. I wanted to constantly see what was going to happen next with both Jake and Mari, and the storyline itself. Burning Boundaries is on that fine line of an Urban Fantasy book, with high romantic elements. Which for me is the best of both worlds. I love urban fantasy books, that there is a possibility of more walking around in plain sight is one thing that intrigues the hell out of me. You could also call this a paranormal romance, because the romance is as important to the storyline as the action/mystery of the story's conflict.
So truly Burning Boundaries offers something for both UF fans, and Paranormal Romance fans, and even romantic suspense fans with the thread of mystery running throughout the story. This is another book that I would highly recommend other readers to grab and devour for their summer or even fall reading enjoyment. I have actually picked up the first book and will read that in the near future and then may even revisit this story afterward.
I look forward to the future books in this series.
December 19, 2023
Burning Boundaries is the second book in the Elemental Evidence series, and we rejoin Jake and Mari as they try to continue their complicated relationship and lives. On top of that, they are also dragged into a situation where someone has spontaneously combusted, which Jake disputes even exists. It does if you're a Fire Elemental and things have gone screwy. So, with one thing after another, Jake goes undercover whilst Mari does his best not to fret.
I was a bit taken aback by Mari and Jake's relationship at the start of this book and didn't like Mari much - much to my surprise. Maybe it's because there was a gap between reading books one and two, although that has never been an issue before. I didn't like how he kept Jake on tenterhooks and played him when Colm and Don were there. Don, I liked, Colm I would have happily punched! So yeah, that bit for me? Not so good. The rest of it though, I thoroughly enjoyed. I liked the mystery aspect of it, the mole, the betrayal, the uncertainty. And poor Jake... that's all I'm saying!
Very well written, with no editing or grammatical errors that disrupted my reading flow, I would recommend this to anyone who has read book one, as you will need to read that to understand the world and backgrounds to receive the full enjoyment of the story (IMO).
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and my comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Jul 6, 2017
I was a bit taken aback by Mari and Jake's relationship at the start of this book and didn't like Mari much - much to my surprise. Maybe it's because there was a gap between reading books one and two, although that has never been an issue before. I didn't like how he kept Jake on tenterhooks and played him when Colm and Don were there. Don, I liked, Colm I would have happily punched! So yeah, that bit for me? Not so good. The rest of it though, I thoroughly enjoyed. I liked the mystery aspect of it, the mole, the betrayal, the uncertainty. And poor Jake... that's all I'm saying!
Very well written, with no editing or grammatical errors that disrupted my reading flow, I would recommend this to anyone who has read book one, as you will need to read that to understand the world and backgrounds to receive the full enjoyment of the story (IMO).
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and my comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Jul 6, 2017
July 11, 2017
I really liked the premise of this book. The 'cult' type aspect, the mole etc all worked really well for me. What didn't work was Mari. I did not like his behaviour or his actions in this book and felt very sorry for Jake. Even at the end, Mari still didn't outright say what Jake was asking him for. He didn't seem to exhibit any redeeming features in this book I'm afraid. Jake was great, steadfast, devoted totally enjoyable to read about...even the not so happy parts. Overall a good book, I hope that Mari redeems himself somewhat in the next instalment.
July 17, 2017
Love this paranormal romance!
Holy Moly, what a great book. I love Mari and Jake as a couple, and it is a fantastic little suspense story rolled in with the hotness. Oh, the hotness.
Holy Moly, what a great book. I love Mari and Jake as a couple, and it is a fantastic little suspense story rolled in with the hotness. Oh, the hotness.
November 22, 2017
This is my review of Burning Boundaries – Elemental Evidence Book Two,
by Bellora Quinn and Sadie Rose Bermingham, from my M/M Romance Books Blog, OJ He Say. Click the link below to see the whole review and more.
Burning Boundaries - Elementals Book Two
BURNING BOUNDARIES
I had been patiently awaiting this sequel to Breathing Betrayal and was so excited when it came out, my only regret is that because life happens it’s taken me a minute to write this long deserved review. This is an excellent series that I hope continues as I feel these characters have still a ways to go in their story.
THE CHARACTERS
Jake Chivis:
A smile twitched his lips again as he thought of Jake Chivis, part-Irish, part-Native American and a fellow Elemental. Jake had been a detective with the Detroit PD in a former life, before SEWN— the Six Elements Worldwide Network research program— had brought him to London, throwing him together with Mari as if that was their destiny.
Chivis was a trained inquisitor, even without his Elemental talents. His element was Fire and his gift was enabled through physical contact with material objects.
Ilmarinen (Mari) Gale:
While Jake couldn’t really remember a time when Mari wasn’t smartly dressed, he’d certainly put some extra effort in tonight. His nearly white blond locks were artfully messy and he wore a silvery, near-translucent tank top under a fitted, tan leather jacket and teal jeans that Jake already wanted to peel him out of.
THE STORY
The story picks up after Breathing Betrayal and we find Jake and Mari further along in their relationship, spending more time together and starting to finally enjoy each other, dating and going out and having fun when they are thrust into a series of incidents that start drawing them in.
As Mari and Jake become more entangled with investigating an obscure organization for MI5 as Jake in ‘drafted’ in to help, but this dark organization for Elementals called Birthright turns out to have very sinister plans indeed. Not only do Jake and Mari discover the darker side of Elementals, they also discover new things about each other and their relationship.
Mari’s fascination with SM and his desire to be spanked is brought out by a Dom they meet in a bar during BDSM night. Colm Fleming not only has a keen interest in Mari, he also brings out the Dom in Jake and Jake’s willing, if hesitant, desire to satisfy Mari.
THE WRITING
The writing of these two authors is nothing if not absolutely superb. The story flows smoothly, at a good pace, allowing the characters to develop and grow naturally. The developing relationship between the two MC’s is like the every day progression we all experience in real life. Not progressing at blinding speeds, but at a more measured pace. There is the hesitancy and questioning and insecurities we all feel that are allowed to come out between Jake and Mari and we feel their angst and love grow.
I cannot wait for Elementals Book Three!
THE DISCLAIMER
I would like to thank Bellora Quinn and Sadie Rose Bermingham and Pride Publishing for providing OJ He Say with a review copy in exchange for an honest review.
by Bellora Quinn and Sadie Rose Bermingham, from my M/M Romance Books Blog, OJ He Say. Click the link below to see the whole review and more.
Burning Boundaries - Elementals Book Two
BURNING BOUNDARIES
I had been patiently awaiting this sequel to Breathing Betrayal and was so excited when it came out, my only regret is that because life happens it’s taken me a minute to write this long deserved review. This is an excellent series that I hope continues as I feel these characters have still a ways to go in their story.
THE CHARACTERS
Jake Chivis:
A smile twitched his lips again as he thought of Jake Chivis, part-Irish, part-Native American and a fellow Elemental. Jake had been a detective with the Detroit PD in a former life, before SEWN— the Six Elements Worldwide Network research program— had brought him to London, throwing him together with Mari as if that was their destiny.
Chivis was a trained inquisitor, even without his Elemental talents. His element was Fire and his gift was enabled through physical contact with material objects.
Ilmarinen (Mari) Gale:
While Jake couldn’t really remember a time when Mari wasn’t smartly dressed, he’d certainly put some extra effort in tonight. His nearly white blond locks were artfully messy and he wore a silvery, near-translucent tank top under a fitted, tan leather jacket and teal jeans that Jake already wanted to peel him out of.
THE STORY
The story picks up after Breathing Betrayal and we find Jake and Mari further along in their relationship, spending more time together and starting to finally enjoy each other, dating and going out and having fun when they are thrust into a series of incidents that start drawing them in.
As Mari and Jake become more entangled with investigating an obscure organization for MI5 as Jake in ‘drafted’ in to help, but this dark organization for Elementals called Birthright turns out to have very sinister plans indeed. Not only do Jake and Mari discover the darker side of Elementals, they also discover new things about each other and their relationship.
Mari’s fascination with SM and his desire to be spanked is brought out by a Dom they meet in a bar during BDSM night. Colm Fleming not only has a keen interest in Mari, he also brings out the Dom in Jake and Jake’s willing, if hesitant, desire to satisfy Mari.
THE WRITING
The writing of these two authors is nothing if not absolutely superb. The story flows smoothly, at a good pace, allowing the characters to develop and grow naturally. The developing relationship between the two MC’s is like the every day progression we all experience in real life. Not progressing at blinding speeds, but at a more measured pace. There is the hesitancy and questioning and insecurities we all feel that are allowed to come out between Jake and Mari and we feel their angst and love grow.
I cannot wait for Elementals Book Three!
THE DISCLAIMER
I would like to thank Bellora Quinn and Sadie Rose Bermingham and Pride Publishing for providing OJ He Say with a review copy in exchange for an honest review.
January 5, 2018
Man this book and this series has me hooked. This is the first I've read of both authors and I'm so glad I did. I’m really, REALLY hoping there will be a book three. One, just because I'm hooked and two, because there is so much left unsaid as far as Mari is concerned. That was my only problem with this book. There’s a background with Mari that we still don't know much about with two books. And I didn't like how he treated Jake sometimes. They're supposed to be in a relationship and you just don't do things like baiting your boyfriend. Maybe it's just me. So I'm hoping there is a book three to clear some things up and to hook us into another adventure.
Being a fire elemental, Jake is considered as having a rare gift. Also considering he can touch things and at times find out the past. His boyfriend, Mari, has a gift too, with anything electronic. He has a way of tapping in that no one can do and hasn't been able to for a long time. Both are in need of a break after more or less consulting with the police on a job and so Jake decided to take Mari out for a night to blow off some steam. But their night turns into a nightmare when a man suddenly combusts into flames. Knowing that spontaneous combustion doesn't really exist, Jake and Mari start digging to find out what is really going on. They find out there is a 'cult’ of elementals lead by a nutcase who is trying to enhance people's abilities, but they aren't sure how. Jake decides, after speaking with case officers, to go undercover and finds out that time is running out on solving these cases before he is the next victim.
Since book 1, Jake has had me hooked on his character. He is so open and forthcoming. And despite some asshole exes who led had him to believe otherwise, he is a passionate, caring gentleman. He fights for the 'underdog’ no matter what kind of trouble he gets into, and works hard at righting wrongs done to others. I just love him. And with the upbringing he had, it makes him even more special. I guess that's why even though I love Mari, I really hate the way he acts with Jake sometimes. He baits him and hides things from him. And is very conceited with him at times. I get that sometimes it's nervousness but I wish he would open up to Jake and be honest with him. No one wants to be hurt. Especially Jake but he let his guard down anyway. The chemistry between them is so powerful too, so I'm anxious to see how much better it is with all the walls down. I'm anxious to see Mari at his full potential. To see him free from whatever is weighing him down. He deserved to be loved, even though Jake loves him already, for everything his is. And Jake needs a partner fully invested and in love with him.
I definitely recommend this book and book 1. I would also recommend you read them in order. There are important details and information you miss if you don't. This book, though, and book 1 are full of suspense and intrigue (and smoking hot sex). They wrap you in a world of paranormal that I love and you just can't put it down. I'm so very glad i picked these up. Please let there be a book 3 ;) Happy reading!
Being a fire elemental, Jake is considered as having a rare gift. Also considering he can touch things and at times find out the past. His boyfriend, Mari, has a gift too, with anything electronic. He has a way of tapping in that no one can do and hasn't been able to for a long time. Both are in need of a break after more or less consulting with the police on a job and so Jake decided to take Mari out for a night to blow off some steam. But their night turns into a nightmare when a man suddenly combusts into flames. Knowing that spontaneous combustion doesn't really exist, Jake and Mari start digging to find out what is really going on. They find out there is a 'cult’ of elementals lead by a nutcase who is trying to enhance people's abilities, but they aren't sure how. Jake decides, after speaking with case officers, to go undercover and finds out that time is running out on solving these cases before he is the next victim.
Since book 1, Jake has had me hooked on his character. He is so open and forthcoming. And despite some asshole exes who led had him to believe otherwise, he is a passionate, caring gentleman. He fights for the 'underdog’ no matter what kind of trouble he gets into, and works hard at righting wrongs done to others. I just love him. And with the upbringing he had, it makes him even more special. I guess that's why even though I love Mari, I really hate the way he acts with Jake sometimes. He baits him and hides things from him. And is very conceited with him at times. I get that sometimes it's nervousness but I wish he would open up to Jake and be honest with him. No one wants to be hurt. Especially Jake but he let his guard down anyway. The chemistry between them is so powerful too, so I'm anxious to see how much better it is with all the walls down. I'm anxious to see Mari at his full potential. To see him free from whatever is weighing him down. He deserved to be loved, even though Jake loves him already, for everything his is. And Jake needs a partner fully invested and in love with him.
I definitely recommend this book and book 1. I would also recommend you read them in order. There are important details and information you miss if you don't. This book, though, and book 1 are full of suspense and intrigue (and smoking hot sex). They wrap you in a world of paranormal that I love and you just can't put it down. I'm so very glad i picked these up. Please let there be a book 3 ;) Happy reading!
August 2, 2017
Ilmarinen “Mari” Gale and Jake Chivis are Elementals: Mari is air and can hack into any communications on the internet just touching a device. Jake is fire and can tap into memories of a person, or item, by physical touch. Mari has been offered a position with Internet Security at MI6, but he’s not sure if he’s willing to work without Jake, or keep secrets from him. He also doesn’t like his maternal ancestor being referred to as a spy. His main priority is his terminally ill mother, and his grandmother’s offer that could make or break his relationship with his mother. As he has time to weigh his decisions, it gives him and Jake a chance to go out for a fun evening.
Jake just happens to live above the bar downstairs where he and Mari go to have a good time. When they head to the basement of the bar, Jake discovers Mari has a kink, and he starts to question their relationship. When a fire breaks out in the basement, Jake goes back to check for any survivors. Mari and Jake (who was a former arson investigator) are totally baffled as the case gets weird. How is it possible for a person to spontaneously combust?
When Jake decides to go undercover to investigate an organization called Birthright, he won’t do it without Mari. Being undercover is more than dangerous for Jake, time is running out, someone is leaking information, and now, Jake can’t be found. Mari has to use his element to the point of endangering himself to save the man who brings comfort and peace to his life.
Before I started reading this book, I re-read the first book, Breathing Betrayal. I had forgotten how good it is, and Burning Boundaries is even better. The authors really draw you into the use of the elemental powers, and it’s just right, not overdone. They take Mari and Jake one step further with more detail and in the usage of the different elemental powers. There’s tension filled suspense, action and danger, and I want to warn readers that there is spanking scene, usage of a belt and a form of sexual abuse. I got sort of panicky about Mari and his wanting to be dominated, which wasn’t reflected in the first novel, so the change took me by surprise. But, he still deals with dyspareunia. I felt for Jake, he doesn’t ever want to hurt Mari, but Mari makes it clear he never wants sympathy. There are a lot of deep feelings expressed by both characters in what their needs are. I also like that the authors gave a more detailed look at Jake’s background and family, being Native American and Irish.
Sadie Rose Bermingham and Bellora Quinn have me hooked on their Elemental Evidence series. I don’t know where the authors will take Mari and Jake next, but I’m looking forward to another page-turner from them. One thing I will say: air and fire create a lot of heat together.
Reviewed by Maryann for The Novel Approach
Jake just happens to live above the bar downstairs where he and Mari go to have a good time. When they head to the basement of the bar, Jake discovers Mari has a kink, and he starts to question their relationship. When a fire breaks out in the basement, Jake goes back to check for any survivors. Mari and Jake (who was a former arson investigator) are totally baffled as the case gets weird. How is it possible for a person to spontaneously combust?
When Jake decides to go undercover to investigate an organization called Birthright, he won’t do it without Mari. Being undercover is more than dangerous for Jake, time is running out, someone is leaking information, and now, Jake can’t be found. Mari has to use his element to the point of endangering himself to save the man who brings comfort and peace to his life.
Before I started reading this book, I re-read the first book, Breathing Betrayal. I had forgotten how good it is, and Burning Boundaries is even better. The authors really draw you into the use of the elemental powers, and it’s just right, not overdone. They take Mari and Jake one step further with more detail and in the usage of the different elemental powers. There’s tension filled suspense, action and danger, and I want to warn readers that there is spanking scene, usage of a belt and a form of sexual abuse. I got sort of panicky about Mari and his wanting to be dominated, which wasn’t reflected in the first novel, so the change took me by surprise. But, he still deals with dyspareunia. I felt for Jake, he doesn’t ever want to hurt Mari, but Mari makes it clear he never wants sympathy. There are a lot of deep feelings expressed by both characters in what their needs are. I also like that the authors gave a more detailed look at Jake’s background and family, being Native American and Irish.
Sadie Rose Bermingham and Bellora Quinn have me hooked on their Elemental Evidence series. I don’t know where the authors will take Mari and Jake next, but I’m looking forward to another page-turner from them. One thing I will say: air and fire create a lot of heat together.
Reviewed by Maryann for The Novel Approach
July 18, 2017
4.5
This is the first book I’ve read by Bellora Quinn and Sadie Rose Bermingham, and although it’s also the second in their Elemental Evidence series, I didn’t have any problems following the storyline. However, having enjoyed this story so much I am going to have to read book 1—Breathing Betrayal—now.
I love paranormal/fantasy stories, and this one didn’t disappoint. The world building is detailed, and I was quickly drawn into the elemental storyline, which I found fascinating. In this world, individuals called Elementals have powers that are linked to their bloodline, so are either earth, fire, water, or air. Jake is a fire elemental and as such has the ability to read objects and the memories of the last person to touch them AKA psychometry. Mari is an air elemental so his power is connected to gathering knowledge, and communications. I loved how he was able to interface with computers and go beyond the keyboard, following the information to the source while leaving his body behind.
I enjoyed the balance between the investigation and Mari and Jake’s relationship. There is quite a lot of sex in the story, but as Mari needs to work through a big issue in that, I felt it didn’t detract from the storyline, but advanced their relationship. I also liked how their relationship grows as they work through things. It isn’t an instant “I love you” connection, although it’s obvious they do love each other by their reactions, and the way they are around each other.
As the story progressed and the tension grew after Jake infiltrated Birthright I was on the edge of my seat, needing to know what happens next, and needing to know it now! The action scenes are well written, and very tense.
I’d recommend Burning Boundaries to readers who enjoy an action filled paranormal story, with interesting characters and a slow burn—no pun intended—romance.
This is the first book I’ve read by Bellora Quinn and Sadie Rose Bermingham, and although it’s also the second in their Elemental Evidence series, I didn’t have any problems following the storyline. However, having enjoyed this story so much I am going to have to read book 1—Breathing Betrayal—now.
I love paranormal/fantasy stories, and this one didn’t disappoint. The world building is detailed, and I was quickly drawn into the elemental storyline, which I found fascinating. In this world, individuals called Elementals have powers that are linked to their bloodline, so are either earth, fire, water, or air. Jake is a fire elemental and as such has the ability to read objects and the memories of the last person to touch them AKA psychometry. Mari is an air elemental so his power is connected to gathering knowledge, and communications. I loved how he was able to interface with computers and go beyond the keyboard, following the information to the source while leaving his body behind.
I enjoyed the balance between the investigation and Mari and Jake’s relationship. There is quite a lot of sex in the story, but as Mari needs to work through a big issue in that, I felt it didn’t detract from the storyline, but advanced their relationship. I also liked how their relationship grows as they work through things. It isn’t an instant “I love you” connection, although it’s obvious they do love each other by their reactions, and the way they are around each other.
As the story progressed and the tension grew after Jake infiltrated Birthright I was on the edge of my seat, needing to know what happens next, and needing to know it now! The action scenes are well written, and very tense.
I’d recommend Burning Boundaries to readers who enjoy an action filled paranormal story, with interesting characters and a slow burn—no pun intended—romance.
July 22, 2017
4 Stars!!!
Burning Boundaries is book 2 in the Elemental Evidence series and even if technically it can be read as a standalone like I did, I suspect the experience would've been better if I'd read the books in order. I was a bit confused at the start, but the authors gave enough information that I wasn't thoroughly lost and I managed to get all caught up with the story.
This is a very detailed-oriented story with a lot of things going on, the MCs Mari Gale and Jake Chivis find themselves in the middle of a possible homicide investigation that involves fire elementals. Since Jake is a fire elemental, too, he's roped into going undercover and join a group called Birthright, which seems the common link between the fire victims, while Mari is trying to find information on the internet about the group's leader and his nefarious plans.
I loved Jake, he was such a fascinating character, loyal, sweet, gentle and very good in what he does. He was definitely my favorite of the two. *cuddles Jake*
It took me a while to like Mari. There were times in which I wanted to punch him. Truly, I don't feel he deserves a man like Jake, but it's not my decision to make. He was selfish and hurt Jake.
Still, Jake and Mari had great chemistry and the sex scenes were hot, even if the BDSM (lite) came completely out of the blue. A little warning would've been nice, btw.
The whole case with Jake infiltrating Birthright and all that implied was really interesting and kept me turning the pages to see what was coming next. That part was extremely well done! All in all, the book was enjoyable, intriguing, well-thought out and a really good collaboration by Bellora Quinn and Sadie Rose Bermingham. Recommendable!
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
Burning Boundaries is book 2 in the Elemental Evidence series and even if technically it can be read as a standalone like I did, I suspect the experience would've been better if I'd read the books in order. I was a bit confused at the start, but the authors gave enough information that I wasn't thoroughly lost and I managed to get all caught up with the story.
This is a very detailed-oriented story with a lot of things going on, the MCs Mari Gale and Jake Chivis find themselves in the middle of a possible homicide investigation that involves fire elementals. Since Jake is a fire elemental, too, he's roped into going undercover and join a group called Birthright, which seems the common link between the fire victims, while Mari is trying to find information on the internet about the group's leader and his nefarious plans.
I loved Jake, he was such a fascinating character, loyal, sweet, gentle and very good in what he does. He was definitely my favorite of the two. *cuddles Jake*
It took me a while to like Mari. There were times in which I wanted to punch him. Truly, I don't feel he deserves a man like Jake, but it's not my decision to make. He was selfish and hurt Jake.
Still, Jake and Mari had great chemistry and the sex scenes were hot, even if the BDSM (lite) came completely out of the blue. A little warning would've been nice, btw.
The whole case with Jake infiltrating Birthright and all that implied was really interesting and kept me turning the pages to see what was coming next. That part was extremely well done! All in all, the book was enjoyable, intriguing, well-thought out and a really good collaboration by Bellora Quinn and Sadie Rose Bermingham. Recommendable!
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
December 4, 2017
5 ***** Stars
Book; Burning Boundaries
Series: Elemental Evidence Book# 2
Author: Bellora Quinn and Sadie Bermingham
Publisher: Pride Publishing
Genre; Paranormal Mystery
Rated; Mature
Release: July 4, 2017
Pages: 356
This is the second book of this fantastic series. I was so totally blown away with Book #1 Breathing Betrayal, I couldn’t wait for the next and happily the authors saw it my way and accommodated me for Book #2 Burning Boundaries.
Jake Chivis who is a Descendant of Fire Elementals and also has the gift of psychometry. He can touch items and view things that have last occurred when held by someone. Different items hold memories longer than others. Jake was a detective in America and is now situated in London, joining a research program studying such gifts.
Also at that program is Dr llmarinen Gale, blonde, sexy and accomplished. Now in this second story, we watch the two young men’s relationship grow, secrets are hidden by Mari, and their lives take another twist as both are asked to work on another case.
Where the first book, had two young men dancing around dating each other, the chemistry in this book has the smoking hot scenes burning your fingers, scorching the pages!!!! Added to that, we have another deadly mystery to solve without the entire world burning up and coming to an end. Things have changed on a personal level. Mari has decided to try to forget his past, and see where these feelings go.
Again, the writing is strong, Mari’s love for his mother is sweet. Her Love for Mari is endearing, and snarky and soooo mom like!
If you read no other book the rest of this year, Bellora Quinn and Sadie Rose Bermingham deserve your quickest attention. Fabulous read!!!!! Couldn’t put this one down either…..
Book; Burning Boundaries
Series: Elemental Evidence Book# 2
Author: Bellora Quinn and Sadie Bermingham
Publisher: Pride Publishing
Genre; Paranormal Mystery
Rated; Mature
Release: July 4, 2017
Pages: 356
This is the second book of this fantastic series. I was so totally blown away with Book #1 Breathing Betrayal, I couldn’t wait for the next and happily the authors saw it my way and accommodated me for Book #2 Burning Boundaries.
Jake Chivis who is a Descendant of Fire Elementals and also has the gift of psychometry. He can touch items and view things that have last occurred when held by someone. Different items hold memories longer than others. Jake was a detective in America and is now situated in London, joining a research program studying such gifts.
Also at that program is Dr llmarinen Gale, blonde, sexy and accomplished. Now in this second story, we watch the two young men’s relationship grow, secrets are hidden by Mari, and their lives take another twist as both are asked to work on another case.
Where the first book, had two young men dancing around dating each other, the chemistry in this book has the smoking hot scenes burning your fingers, scorching the pages!!!! Added to that, we have another deadly mystery to solve without the entire world burning up and coming to an end. Things have changed on a personal level. Mari has decided to try to forget his past, and see where these feelings go.
Again, the writing is strong, Mari’s love for his mother is sweet. Her Love for Mari is endearing, and snarky and soooo mom like!
If you read no other book the rest of this year, Bellora Quinn and Sadie Rose Bermingham deserve your quickest attention. Fabulous read!!!!! Couldn’t put this one down either…..
June 10, 2018
I don't remember much about the case in book 1, but I do remember that the case was eclipsed by the huge amount of sex Jake and Mari had. Book 2 was better, I think. There's still quite a lot of sex, but it didn't overwhelm the mystery plot. Jake and Mari also dealt with relationship issue in this book, and it's wonderful to read about their relationship progress.
The investigation was good, and it all looked easy and uneventful until it suddenly took a dark twist. But, what I liked was that they coped with it quite well, unless if the authors delayed their reactions and it's going to be a problem in the next book.
Btw, what's Jake job? I don't think he went to work during the course of the story.
The investigation was good, and it all looked easy and uneventful until it suddenly took a dark twist. But, what I liked was that they coped with it quite well, unless if the authors delayed their reactions and it's going to be a problem in the next book.
Btw, what's Jake job? I don't think he went to work during the course of the story.
July 30, 2017
Love this paranormal romance!
Holy Moly, what a great book. I love Mari and Jake as a couple, and it is a fantastic little suspense story rolled in with the hotness. Oh, the hotness.
Holy Moly, what a great book. I love Mari and Jake as a couple, and it is a fantastic little suspense story rolled in with the hotness. Oh, the hotness.
August 25, 2024
Burning Boundaries (Elemental Evidence 2)
By Bellora Quinn and Sadie Rose Bermingham
Published 2017 by Pride Publishing
Reviewed 2024
I realize I read the first book in this series when it was first published, and then lost track of the authors. I’m glad I found this, and got to see what became of Mari Gale and Jake Chivis. I’ve also bought the third book in this series (Surfacing Secrets) because the writing is very good and the characters are compelling.
Can people simply burst into flames? Is spontaneous combustion real? Given that these two men are elementals, and bear the bloodlines of powerful Air and Fire magic, it’s not as far-fetched as it might seem.
Mari (contracted from the amazing Finnish name Ilmarinen) Gale is being interviewed for a new job—a position in the secret service that would make great use of his amazing Air Elemental powers (which here translates into doing unheard of things with computer systems). Meanwhile, Jake is still looking for a new job, leaving his work with the Detroit Police Department far behind him.
And they’re still dating, months after the case they worked together turned them into a couple. But are they a couple? Mari’s mother, Annabel, seems to think so, and even Jake seems to think so; but Mari’s baggage makes it difficult for him to share that vision.
The distraction of this book—which, of course, is the main mystery—is a brief but violent fire in the basement dungeon of a BDSM bar above which Jake happens to rent an apartment. Two people die in this fire, and although they have no official ties, Jake’s friend on the Metropolitan Police asks his advice. Something is very weird about the fire, and about the man who seems to have started it.
Like the first book in this series, there is a fascinating and increasingly creepy mystery that brings both men and their special elemental skills into play.
More importantly, however, is the authors’ careful deep dive into the two men’s relationship. As with the first book, there is more on-page sex than I generally care about (but, again, very well done, and emotionally potent). There is no denying that these two men are interesting, and good, and OBVIOUSLY destined for each other. But the joy of books like this is watching the protagonists stumble into the truth that the reader can already see.
What I took away from this second episode is that these two men are special, and they need to be very careful about whom they let make use of their special talents. Not all of the bad guys interested in them are obviously bad; and not all the good guys (i.e. the government agencies who want their skills) are actually entirely good either.
Will they find the reason for the fire-related deaths? Will they get good jobs with benefits and security? Will they just admit what they feel for each other, already?
Very good. And I expect book 3 will be just as good.
By Bellora Quinn and Sadie Rose Bermingham
Published 2017 by Pride Publishing
Reviewed 2024
I realize I read the first book in this series when it was first published, and then lost track of the authors. I’m glad I found this, and got to see what became of Mari Gale and Jake Chivis. I’ve also bought the third book in this series (Surfacing Secrets) because the writing is very good and the characters are compelling.
Can people simply burst into flames? Is spontaneous combustion real? Given that these two men are elementals, and bear the bloodlines of powerful Air and Fire magic, it’s not as far-fetched as it might seem.
Mari (contracted from the amazing Finnish name Ilmarinen) Gale is being interviewed for a new job—a position in the secret service that would make great use of his amazing Air Elemental powers (which here translates into doing unheard of things with computer systems). Meanwhile, Jake is still looking for a new job, leaving his work with the Detroit Police Department far behind him.
And they’re still dating, months after the case they worked together turned them into a couple. But are they a couple? Mari’s mother, Annabel, seems to think so, and even Jake seems to think so; but Mari’s baggage makes it difficult for him to share that vision.
The distraction of this book—which, of course, is the main mystery—is a brief but violent fire in the basement dungeon of a BDSM bar above which Jake happens to rent an apartment. Two people die in this fire, and although they have no official ties, Jake’s friend on the Metropolitan Police asks his advice. Something is very weird about the fire, and about the man who seems to have started it.
Like the first book in this series, there is a fascinating and increasingly creepy mystery that brings both men and their special elemental skills into play.
More importantly, however, is the authors’ careful deep dive into the two men’s relationship. As with the first book, there is more on-page sex than I generally care about (but, again, very well done, and emotionally potent). There is no denying that these two men are interesting, and good, and OBVIOUSLY destined for each other. But the joy of books like this is watching the protagonists stumble into the truth that the reader can already see.
What I took away from this second episode is that these two men are special, and they need to be very careful about whom they let make use of their special talents. Not all of the bad guys interested in them are obviously bad; and not all the good guys (i.e. the government agencies who want their skills) are actually entirely good either.
Will they find the reason for the fire-related deaths? Will they get good jobs with benefits and security? Will they just admit what they feel for each other, already?
Very good. And I expect book 3 will be just as good.
January 26, 2018
Enjoyable - good addition to the series.
January 6, 2019
as good maybe even better than the first book. the mystery/suspense part was more than well done and I love the relationship development
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