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Scorch
Trying to avoid a war between my family and one of the most notorious criminals in Seattle, I'm forced to take a job I have no interest in doing. All I have to do is hack into one of the most protected systems in the whole country, and walk away with the goods.In the middle of this asinine scheme, the last person I expect to run into is Avery—my biggest regret, and the only woman I've ever loved. But this time, she's on the right side of the law, and the moment she spots me, she knows I'm up to no good.She wants to bargain—or throw my ass in jail. I want her naked in my bed, screaming out my name. And they may call me Scorch for a reason, but this time around, I'll be the one who'll get burned when I put my heart on the line.***This story has a Happily Ever After for the couple and can be read as a stand alone novel. ***
- GenresRomance
200 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 12, 2017
41 people are currently reading
36 people want to read
About the author
Cali MacKay
48 books321 followersCali MacKay is a NY Times and USA Today bestselling author. She lives in New England with her husband, two girls and their crazy mutt. When not tapping away on her laptop and getting her characters into trouble, she can be found designing book covers for other authors, wrangling her girls, and splicing DNA.
She's also a decent potter, adventurous cook, and a horrible gardener.
She's also a decent potter, adventurous cook, and a horrible gardener.
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
September 12, 2017
Second chance romantic suspense between two hackers that is sexy and drama packed
Scorch is a second chance romantic suspense between two hackers with a painful past and secrets that could destroy any chance at a future in this sexy and drama packed read with a determined woman who isn’t intimidated by this alpha male. While it helps to have a little extra insight if you have read previous books, this can be read as a standalone (I personally have only read the previous book in this series and have been following along no problem).
Told from dual perspective, Dane (also known as Scorch) and Avery have a simmering attraction that hasn’t fizzled out as these former lovers find themselves crossing paths again. Having to face up to past issues once again within their world of hacking and legal vs illegal, the two find it harder to keep feelings at bay. You do have to be open to somewhat fast and insta-love between former lovers (although there is a slowed down element that makes it work) to fully enjoy this couple but if you can, you’ll find yourself rooting for Dane and Avery to find a way through.
If you enjoy a fast paced romantic suspense but nothing dark, definitely give this book a try! I liked it.
*I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. I was not compensated for my review, and I was not required to write a positive review. The opinion expressed here is my own.
Scorch is a second chance romantic suspense between two hackers with a painful past and secrets that could destroy any chance at a future in this sexy and drama packed read with a determined woman who isn’t intimidated by this alpha male. While it helps to have a little extra insight if you have read previous books, this can be read as a standalone (I personally have only read the previous book in this series and have been following along no problem).
Told from dual perspective, Dane (also known as Scorch) and Avery have a simmering attraction that hasn’t fizzled out as these former lovers find themselves crossing paths again. Having to face up to past issues once again within their world of hacking and legal vs illegal, the two find it harder to keep feelings at bay. You do have to be open to somewhat fast and insta-love between former lovers (although there is a slowed down element that makes it work) to fully enjoy this couple but if you can, you’ll find yourself rooting for Dane and Avery to find a way through.
If you enjoy a fast paced romantic suspense but nothing dark, definitely give this book a try! I liked it.
*I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. I was not compensated for my review, and I was not required to write a positive review. The opinion expressed here is my own.
January 22, 2020
Read these awhile ago. Comments and review to follow.
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September 19, 2017
Four years ago, Dane Blackthorn made the decision to leave his girlfriend in order to protect her from the criminals his family used to do business with. In this story, Dane, or his hacker name, Scorch, agrees to one final job in order to protect his sister-in-law. Infiltrating the company he's trying to hack, he runs into his former girlfriend, Avery, who knows he's up to no good.
Because the story is told from a dual perspective, we know both Dane and Avery have been unable to get past the pain of their breakup. Avery caught Dane cheating on her so he has a huge hurdle to overcome when he wants to win Avery back. he explains why he betrayed her in hopes that she can forgive him and give their relationship another try. Avery is keeping secrets of her own so she knows she's not blameless in their relationship issues.
In the end, Avery devises a solution to hopefully save Dane and his family, but she doesn't reveal all facets to Dane and now the trust issue runs the other way. Unlike their younger selves, the more mature Dane and Avery are able to admit their mistakes in judgement to reach their HEA.
I really enjoyed the push and pull of their second chance at happiness, combined with the suspense and intrigue of the caper made this a fast read.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Because the story is told from a dual perspective, we know both Dane and Avery have been unable to get past the pain of their breakup. Avery caught Dane cheating on her so he has a huge hurdle to overcome when he wants to win Avery back. he explains why he betrayed her in hopes that she can forgive him and give their relationship another try. Avery is keeping secrets of her own so she knows she's not blameless in their relationship issues.
In the end, Avery devises a solution to hopefully save Dane and his family, but she doesn't reveal all facets to Dane and now the trust issue runs the other way. Unlike their younger selves, the more mature Dane and Avery are able to admit their mistakes in judgement to reach their HEA.
I really enjoyed the push and pull of their second chance at happiness, combined with the suspense and intrigue of the caper made this a fast read.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
September 15, 2017
I received an advance copy of Scorch and this is my freely given, honest review. I love these Blackthorn brothers books! I think that Cali MacKay has written a great series about these brothers that love their family so much and are trying to go legitimate. This story belongs to Dane. He's a computer hacker that has a huge regret in his past named Avery and she is now a part of his present and getting thrust into the Blackthorn criminal past that they have been trying to break free from. Avery and Dane met in college. She's a brilliant hacker as well but she has always wanted a legitimate life. She thought that was were she and Dane were headed 4 years ago when he did something that I feel is unforgivable. Now that he has popped back into her life, Dane wants to pick up where they left off but I do not know how Avery will ever be able to trust this man again. Now this is where I stop giving away any more of the story or it will ruin your reading of Scorch. I really enjoyed this book even though I really am mad at Dane's character. Avery is an amazing person and as everyone keeps telling her she does deserve the best. I highly recommend this book and series and can't wait to see what is in store for the youngest Blackthorn brother!
September 12, 2017
Wow, I'm glad this one lived up to my hopes as I've really been looking forward to Dane's, the hacker, story!!
Dane had loved & lost (deliberately, stupidly & heartlessly) his great love, Avery, four years ago as he couldn't go legit when she desperately needed him to. They were both black hat hackers at that time but she got out of the bad side of hacking & without his knowledge was starting to work covertly for the FBI.
Dane is being blackmailed by mob boss, Stubbs, to steal something & he runs into Avery, she knows he's up to no good so they agree to meet & talk. She is full of bitterness over their breakup & the story takes us through how or if they can help each other!!
Dane & Avery clearly still love each other but can they move on from their past? Will present jealousy, betrayals & misunderstandings be overcome or be the end of them?
I thoroughly enjoyed this twisty, bitter, sexy, cyber tale of second chances, heartbreak, friendship, family & love. I hope that sexy 'Doc Huck' gets his own HEA after pining after his best friend all these years!! 💙 I look forward with glee to Slater's book ... Yummy 😃
Lose yourself in this dark series, it's delish!!
Debbie, 1970, UK
Dane had loved & lost (deliberately, stupidly & heartlessly) his great love, Avery, four years ago as he couldn't go legit when she desperately needed him to. They were both black hat hackers at that time but she got out of the bad side of hacking & without his knowledge was starting to work covertly for the FBI.
Dane is being blackmailed by mob boss, Stubbs, to steal something & he runs into Avery, she knows he's up to no good so they agree to meet & talk. She is full of bitterness over their breakup & the story takes us through how or if they can help each other!!
Dane & Avery clearly still love each other but can they move on from their past? Will present jealousy, betrayals & misunderstandings be overcome or be the end of them?
I thoroughly enjoyed this twisty, bitter, sexy, cyber tale of second chances, heartbreak, friendship, family & love. I hope that sexy 'Doc Huck' gets his own HEA after pining after his best friend all these years!! 💙 I look forward with glee to Slater's book ... Yummy 😃
Lose yourself in this dark series, it's delish!!
Debbie, 1970, UK
September 12, 2017
Angst and love go hand in hand in this intriguing story. Avery was left broken by Dane four years previous, now due to a job he has to do to keep his family safe, they run into each other again and literally. The sparks start flying, she wants nothing to do with him but his job and hers are at stake. I felt for both characters, he did what he thought he had to in their past to keep her safe, she just didn't know that's what he was doing. Now its her keeping secrets that could threaten them again. Exciting and intense read full of angst and love, hot sex and passion. Reunited after four years they both admit they still love each other, can they work it out this time. Lots of suspense and a few surprising occurrences along the way in this fantastic story by Cali MacKay. Its not tame or steady, once you start you have to keep going. Cali writes in a way that has you sinking into the story and staying there even after you finish, wrapped up in the characters. I cant wait for the next book in this series.
September 13, 2017
Second Chance Book
Scorch is a great book about two people that cross paths after suffering four years of guilt, betrayal and lost love. Dane Blackthorn "Scorch" and Avery had been together for years working side by side as hackers until the ultimate betrayal left them both heartbroken. Now with the Blackthorn family going legit sometimes the past doesn't always stay in the past. Avery and Dane haven't been able to move forward in their lives and still love each other but trust is a shadow from their former relationship. With Avery and Dane working together again to stop some big time criminals it's getting harder to fight their feelings and sexual tension. Secrets are revealed that just end them once and for all unless the bad guys get them first. Cali will keep you intrigued till the end with this second chance book filled with scorching sex, guilt, forgiveness and hope. Loved it and already ordered Slater's book "Falling"!!!
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book and bought it!!
Thank you Cali MacKay for a great book
Scorch is a great book about two people that cross paths after suffering four years of guilt, betrayal and lost love. Dane Blackthorn "Scorch" and Avery had been together for years working side by side as hackers until the ultimate betrayal left them both heartbroken. Now with the Blackthorn family going legit sometimes the past doesn't always stay in the past. Avery and Dane haven't been able to move forward in their lives and still love each other but trust is a shadow from their former relationship. With Avery and Dane working together again to stop some big time criminals it's getting harder to fight their feelings and sexual tension. Secrets are revealed that just end them once and for all unless the bad guys get them first. Cali will keep you intrigued till the end with this second chance book filled with scorching sex, guilt, forgiveness and hope. Loved it and already ordered Slater's book "Falling"!!!
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book and bought it!!
Thank you Cali MacKay for a great book
September 11, 2017
Dane and Avery's story was fast paced and often intense. I personally love a good hacker romance, especially when the female lead is as sharp as the male.
I know Dane hurt Avery, and I was really glad when she stopped telling him how he "broke" her. I didn't expect her to jump back into a relationship, but I think he had a clear picture of how much he screwed up after the third or fourth time it was mentioned.
They had serious trust issues they needed to resolve. I was glad that this book was not full of angst like I thought it would be at the beginning.
Although this is part of a series, it can be read as a standalone. Another good addition to the Blackhorn series.
I voluntarily read and reviewed this Advanced Reader Copy.
I know Dane hurt Avery, and I was really glad when she stopped telling him how he "broke" her. I didn't expect her to jump back into a relationship, but I think he had a clear picture of how much he screwed up after the third or fourth time it was mentioned.
They had serious trust issues they needed to resolve. I was glad that this book was not full of angst like I thought it would be at the beginning.
Although this is part of a series, it can be read as a standalone. Another good addition to the Blackhorn series.
I voluntarily read and reviewed this Advanced Reader Copy.
September 15, 2017
Four years ago Dane and Avery were both hackers and in love. When Avery decided to use her skills for good rather than evil she wanted Dane to come with her but he refused because of his family. She ended up with a broken heart and the inability to trust another man.
Dane and his family have gradually been changing their business to legal activities but in order to protect them he must use his hacking skills for one last job. What he didn’t expect was to run into the only woman he loved, Avery, and that she is now working for the FBI but will he be able to have Avery and save his family?
Great combination of suspense, twists and chemistry make this an enjoyable read. I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
Dane and his family have gradually been changing their business to legal activities but in order to protect them he must use his hacking skills for one last job. What he didn’t expect was to run into the only woman he loved, Avery, and that she is now working for the FBI but will he be able to have Avery and save his family?
Great combination of suspense, twists and chemistry make this an enjoyable read. I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
July 20, 2023
Huck was the better man
It’s a sweet story and they’re both a bit weird and twisted but damn if the second love interest isn’t the better man. I really hoped she’d choose him in the end … not the point of this romance but really Huck was the better man and as far as book boyfriends hi being willing to raise another man’s child because he loved her so much made him the better choice … Dane’s reaction to it was so bad when he thought the kid wasn’t his just completely put me off their romance … so I’ll say it again Huck was the better man he deserved a win and that might just mean he deserves someone better than her.
Rant over - 5 stars! Someone tell me if Huck has a book I’ll read it.
It’s a sweet story and they’re both a bit weird and twisted but damn if the second love interest isn’t the better man. I really hoped she’d choose him in the end … not the point of this romance but really Huck was the better man and as far as book boyfriends hi being willing to raise another man’s child because he loved her so much made him the better choice … Dane’s reaction to it was so bad when he thought the kid wasn’t his just completely put me off their romance … so I’ll say it again Huck was the better man he deserved a win and that might just mean he deserves someone better than her.
Rant over - 5 stars! Someone tell me if Huck has a book I’ll read it.
September 9, 2017
Another good read in the Blackthorn series. This book can be read as a standalone. Each of the brothers get their story told. Dane and Avery's story is one of a second chance at love. Dane screwed up 4 years ago, but now that he's reconnected with Avery, he won't make that mistake again.
I loved Dane and his persistence. I didn't like what he had done and I understood Avery's hesitation to forgive him. I would have loved to have a little more detail in the story and for the climax of the story to have been a little bit more. It was a good read though and I continue to enjoy this family.
I loved Dane and his persistence. I didn't like what he had done and I understood Avery's hesitation to forgive him. I would have loved to have a little more detail in the story and for the climax of the story to have been a little bit more. It was a good read though and I continue to enjoy this family.
September 13, 2017
ARC for honest review with no compensation
Scorch by Cali MacKay is the 4th book in the Blackthorn Brothers series and while it can be read as a standalone you have a better understanding if you read the whole series…excellent books! !
Dane and Avery are hackers who at one time were on the edge of the wrong side of the law, but Avery got out and started working for the FBI, while Dane just stayed…now he is being blackmailed by a mob boss and who does he run into but Avery the woman he loved and lost.
Can these two help each other and find their HEA or will it be hacked to pieces?? Heartbreak, second chances, jealousy, misunderstandings are all part of what makes for an excellent read!
Scorch by Cali MacKay is the 4th book in the Blackthorn Brothers series and while it can be read as a standalone you have a better understanding if you read the whole series…excellent books! !
Dane and Avery are hackers who at one time were on the edge of the wrong side of the law, but Avery got out and started working for the FBI, while Dane just stayed…now he is being blackmailed by a mob boss and who does he run into but Avery the woman he loved and lost.
Can these two help each other and find their HEA or will it be hacked to pieces?? Heartbreak, second chances, jealousy, misunderstandings are all part of what makes for an excellent read!
September 19, 2017
This is a pleasant read with regards to the interaction between the characters, but I felt that there wasn't really much story involved. Both Dane and Avery are brilliant hackers, but you don't see either of them do any hacking; the files that Dane requires are just handed over by Avery on a pen drive. The information she is trying to gather in her undercover job is desperately important to the FBI (who Avery works for), and it is regarded as a dangerous operation, but you don't hear of it again, then she goes off for a few weeks' holiday in Hawaii. Not very probable!
Despite that it is a pleasant enough second-chance romance, and will easily while away a lazy afternoon.
Despite that it is a pleasant enough second-chance romance, and will easily while away a lazy afternoon.
September 12, 2017
This is the story about Dane and Avery who are thrown together to work once again except their on opposing sides. Avery is now working with the Feds undercover. Dane still is on the wrong side of the law even though he is being forced to be there. This situation, now gives these two a second chance at happiness. Dane can redeem himself for what he did in the past that purposely cost him Avery. That is if Dane can forgive her for deceiving him when the truth comes out! Great addition to the series which can be read as a stand alone. I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy
September 14, 2017
This is book four in the The Blackthorn Brothers Series. This is a great second chance love story about Scorch/Dane and Avery who were an item in the past. They were both hackers and for the sake of his family he pushed her away and broke her heart. She is now legit and working for the FBI. They are thrown together again when he is trying to protect his family. The passion and sparks are still there. A roller coaster of emotions and no shortage of suspense or drama. I loved this story. I received an advance copy and voluntarily chose to review it
September 14, 2017
Scorch is the 4th book in the Bad Boy Billionaire Romance - Blackthorns Brothers Series. Easy is a stand alone but you do ben9from reading them in order. Scorch is Dane and Avery's story. Four years ago Dane broke Avery's heart by cheating knowing she'd walk in and see it for herself. This story has a lot of emotions and you feel effects of the blackmail, betrayal, and heartbreak throughout this book. The characters are well developed and the plot keeps you turning the pages. If you enjoy reading about a strong woman giving an alpha male a run for his money, than you will love this book.
September 12, 2017
This book is Scorch, a bad boy billionaire romance and book 4 of The Blackthorn Brothers series, written by Cali Mackay. This is a second chance romance tale and I enjoyed it. Dane was Avery’s soulmate..or so she thought. Now he is back and has a problem. Will Avery turn him in? Will Dane convince her to give him another chance? Can he break away from the bad guys, or is he hiding his real purpose? I couldn’t put this one down and I can barely wait for the next book! I received an advance readers copy and chose voluntarily to leave this review.
September 12, 2017
Dane Blackthorn did the unthinkable to push Avery away 5 years ago. A decision he regrets. Now being forced to do one more job from his previous life Dane literally walked into Avery. Avery now working undercover for the Feds is not happy running into Dane now. Dane needs to prove to Avery that he is the man for her and will prove he can be trusted. These Blackthorn brothers are one hot mess until their ladies get them back in line. So enjoy this series!!
September 23, 2017
This is book four in the Blackthorn Brothers series by Cali MacKay
I received this book as an ARC in exchange for a honest review.
Just imagine that you are totally trying to avoid a war between my own family and one of the dangerous notorious criminals in the whole of Seattle. I’m then forced to take a job, which I have to admit that I have no interest in doing what so ever. All I've got to do then is try and hack into one of the most complex and protected systems in the whole of the country. Then I'll walk away with the goodies.
However now in the middle of all this crazy and total asinine scheme. The one and only person I expect to run straight into is my biggest mistakes and regrets. I don't believe that I'm admitting this but she was the one and only woman I’ve ever loved, Avery. Only this time, Avery’s totally on the right side of the law. It's only then and at that moment Avery suddenly spots me. Avery knows me so well and now she knows I’m up to no good.
Avery either wants to try and bargain with me or what would be her solid objective and that would be to throw my sorry ass back in jail.
All I want is Avery who willing and very naked in my bed, screaming out my name with pleasure until she burns out.
Hell they may call me by my nickname Scorch for a real good reason. I have a feeling that this is the time that I Dane aka Scorch who will get burned when I put my heart on the line.
I love this book by Cali, I'm in need of more than 5*s
I received this book as an ARC in exchange for a honest review.
Just imagine that you are totally trying to avoid a war between my own family and one of the dangerous notorious criminals in the whole of Seattle. I’m then forced to take a job, which I have to admit that I have no interest in doing what so ever. All I've got to do then is try and hack into one of the most complex and protected systems in the whole of the country. Then I'll walk away with the goodies.
However now in the middle of all this crazy and total asinine scheme. The one and only person I expect to run straight into is my biggest mistakes and regrets. I don't believe that I'm admitting this but she was the one and only woman I’ve ever loved, Avery. Only this time, Avery’s totally on the right side of the law. It's only then and at that moment Avery suddenly spots me. Avery knows me so well and now she knows I’m up to no good.
Avery either wants to try and bargain with me or what would be her solid objective and that would be to throw my sorry ass back in jail.
All I want is Avery who willing and very naked in my bed, screaming out my name with pleasure until she burns out.
Hell they may call me by my nickname Scorch for a real good reason. I have a feeling that this is the time that I Dane aka Scorch who will get burned when I put my heart on the line.
I love this book by Cali, I'm in need of more than 5*s
September 15, 2017
A fantastic super sexy quick read! It's a second chance story that was emotional when all the secrets and lies from the past come to light. While Dane had his reasons for pushing Avery away, the way he chose to do it may not be something she can forgive. He didn't expect to run into her now but since he has he doesn't want to let her go again. Will she give them a chance or is her pain too much to overcome?
A great read and one I definitely recommend.
A great read and one I definitely recommend.
September 15, 2017
This was a great book and it's a welcome addition to a great series. Cali Mackay really knows how to real you in and keep you interested from beginning to end. Plus no matter how bleak the main characters relationship looks, you can always feel the love between them and she doesn't play games with putting them with other people. She makes you hold on to their love though the whole story. That is very hard to do and she does it beautifully. Congrats on another great book. Gina
November 19, 2021
Second chance
Dane screwed Avery over. He cheated on her and broke her heart. Now four years later she catches him doing something illegal and he suddenly wants her back. She's suspicious and still heartbroken. This story is an exercise in trust building and the strength of love. Some good twists and plenty of chemistry though I don't understand why Huck had to be hurt in the process. It would have been better if his heart wasn't involved.
Dane screwed Avery over. He cheated on her and broke her heart. Now four years later she catches him doing something illegal and he suddenly wants her back. She's suspicious and still heartbroken. This story is an exercise in trust building and the strength of love. Some good twists and plenty of chemistry though I don't understand why Huck had to be hurt in the process. It would have been better if his heart wasn't involved.
September 12, 2017
Hackers, Hijackers and a Second Chance
Hackers, Hijackers and a Second Chance to change it all.
I am a HUGE fan of Cali's works. A true artist in her field. What can I say I love the Blackthorn Boys. They're all SAH and truly knows how to love their women.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book, and I'm looking forward to seeing more of the Blackthorn Family...
Hackers, Hijackers and a Second Chance to change it all.
I am a HUGE fan of Cali's works. A true artist in her field. What can I say I love the Blackthorn Boys. They're all SAH and truly knows how to love their women.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book, and I'm looking forward to seeing more of the Blackthorn Family...
September 27, 2017
5 Candi Kiss and and Epic HEA!!
Nothing is as it seems, at least for Dane and Avery. This epic love story of second chances is a wild ride in the underworld and the ones who want to stop them. Our H/h are pawns and kings of their own destiny at the same time and only their hearts can lead them true. I love Cali MacKay stories and can't wait for the next one.
Nothing is as it seems, at least for Dane and Avery. This epic love story of second chances is a wild ride in the underworld and the ones who want to stop them. Our H/h are pawns and kings of their own destiny at the same time and only their hearts can lead them true. I love Cali MacKay stories and can't wait for the next one.
September 14, 2017
Great suspenseful romance with plenty of emotional highs and lows! There is sizzle and some intrigue and a second chance as well. This is a fast-paced, well-written story with very good characters. I voluntarily read an ARC and this is my honest review.
September 15, 2017
Loved it!!
I just loved reading Dane and Avery story!! The connection they have is so strong. They had to over come a lot to be together but in the in they did. I would recommend this book to anyone!I
I just loved reading Dane and Avery story!! The connection they have is so strong. They had to over come a lot to be together but in the in they did. I would recommend this book to anyone!I
September 13, 2017
When Dane takes a job to save his family he runs into the "one that got away". Even though he was the one that pushed her away Dane never got over Avery. She wanted him to go legit and stop hacking but his family needed him and he couldn't. Now that he has gotten out of that world he's pulled back in by a real bad guy. Stubbs wouldn't think twice about destroying his family so Dane makes a deal with the devil. Avery hasn't been able to get over him, even though she lives with an incredible man. Huck the hot doc would love to make Avery his but she doesn't want to ruin their friendship. Once they have a plan to get Dane out of the mess he's in, they hook up much to Hucks disappointment. But the secrets and pride they each have will test their love. Can they overcome their differences. I love this series! Can't wait for the next one.
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews