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The Obsidian Files #2
My Next Breath
Zade Ryan. Rebel supersoldier. Nearly superhuman. On a desperate quest to rescue his missing brother Luke by any means possible. To do it, he must seduce the elusive Simone Brightman, inventor of the ingenious and deadly tech used to capture Luke and hold him prisoner, location unknown. Zade will do whatever it takes to get close to Simone. Her mysterious beauty and highly sexual allure have him at a disadvantage, but time is running out ...
Simone is fighting battles of her own, on her own. Until Zade—six foot four of sinewy muscle and lethal combat skills—rescues her from street thugs and leaves her breathless. His smoldering black eyes and overpowering sensuality—and his seductive invitation to spend one wild, unforgettable night with him—prove too tempting to resist.
Their passionate encounter unleashes scorching desire that neither can control—leaving them vulnerable to their enemies who watch from the shadows and wait. And when they are lured into a trap by a monstrous killer hellbent on their destruction, they must fight with every weapon they have to save Luke, and each other.
Because one night together could never be enough—and they might not live to have another ...
Simone is fighting battles of her own, on her own. Until Zade—six foot four of sinewy muscle and lethal combat skills—rescues her from street thugs and leaves her breathless. His smoldering black eyes and overpowering sensuality—and his seductive invitation to spend one wild, unforgettable night with him—prove too tempting to resist.
Their passionate encounter unleashes scorching desire that neither can control—leaving them vulnerable to their enemies who watch from the shadows and wait. And when they are lured into a trap by a monstrous killer hellbent on their destruction, they must fight with every weapon they have to save Luke, and each other.
Because one night together could never be enough—and they might not live to have another ...
254 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 29, 2017
62 people are currently reading
457 people want to read
About the author
Shannon McKenna
125 books1,449 followersAlso wrote five category romances under the penname Shannon Anderson
::From The Author's Website::
HOW IT ALL BEGAN
I started writing my first romance novel in secret. I was working a temp job in an insurance office in Manhattan at the time, and the office manager had made it clear that even if there was nothing to do, I still had to look busy-- never one of my big talents. I felt bad about the wasted time, though, and I needed something to round out my other chosen career, which was singing. Yeah, that's right. Most artists choose a more practical Plan B to back up their improbable Plan A. Me? No way. "Long Shot" is my middle name.
So I sneakily set up a Document 1 and a Document 2 with a spreadsheet on it. If my Boss du Jour walked by I could quick-like-a-bunny switch screens, and whenever the coast was clear, I went back to my story. Not that I was slacking, mind you. If there was work to be done, I did it. The sneakiness felt familiar, though, because I've been teased about reading romances since I was a kid. I think the day I finally grew up was the day I stopped trying to cover up what I was reading on the bus, train or subway. Let people think whatever they like.
It wasn't until I moved to Italy (details of that Long Shot provided later on) that I got serious about writing, though. I found myself with many long, quiet days alone with nothing to do, so I slogged my way bravely to the end of the manuscript and sent it out. Everybody rejected it-except for Kensington. I wrote for them for a few years, and then made a bid for an erotic novella for the new Brava imprint, and oh joy, they accepted it. Then I wrote BEHIND CLOSED DOORS. And so on, and so forth.
That's how I started. I can't think of anything I'd rather do. I never knew it would be so scary, and so hard . . . all that solitude and silence, a blank computer screen, and no one to blame. But still. It's worth it. It's great.
::From The Author's Website::
HOW IT ALL BEGAN
I started writing my first romance novel in secret. I was working a temp job in an insurance office in Manhattan at the time, and the office manager had made it clear that even if there was nothing to do, I still had to look busy-- never one of my big talents. I felt bad about the wasted time, though, and I needed something to round out my other chosen career, which was singing. Yeah, that's right. Most artists choose a more practical Plan B to back up their improbable Plan A. Me? No way. "Long Shot" is my middle name.
So I sneakily set up a Document 1 and a Document 2 with a spreadsheet on it. If my Boss du Jour walked by I could quick-like-a-bunny switch screens, and whenever the coast was clear, I went back to my story. Not that I was slacking, mind you. If there was work to be done, I did it. The sneakiness felt familiar, though, because I've been teased about reading romances since I was a kid. I think the day I finally grew up was the day I stopped trying to cover up what I was reading on the bus, train or subway. Let people think whatever they like.
It wasn't until I moved to Italy (details of that Long Shot provided later on) that I got serious about writing, though. I found myself with many long, quiet days alone with nothing to do, so I slogged my way bravely to the end of the manuscript and sent it out. Everybody rejected it-except for Kensington. I wrote for them for a few years, and then made a bid for an erotic novella for the new Brava imprint, and oh joy, they accepted it. Then I wrote BEHIND CLOSED DOORS. And so on, and so forth.
That's how I started. I can't think of anything I'd rather do. I never knew it would be so scary, and so hard . . . all that solitude and silence, a blank computer screen, and no one to blame. But still. It's worth it. It's great.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
June 25, 2018
Heart pounding suspense!
While each story is a stand alone, you need to start with book #1, Noah’s story. Because the main storyline is continue.
I loves it!
Off to Luke’s story now, Zade’s brother, who had been kidnapped and tortured for weeks by the evil villain!
❤️❤️❤️
While each story is a stand alone, you need to start with book #1, Noah’s story. Because the main storyline is continue.
I loves it!
Off to Luke’s story now, Zade’s brother, who had been kidnapped and tortured for weeks by the evil villain!
❤️❤️❤️
January 10, 2018
*Arc received in exchange of an honest review*
Shannon McKenna is the author who made me love romantic suspense and to this day, her McClouds & Friends series is still my favorite in that genre. To me, she is one of the best authors in the romance community regardless of genres and she's the only romantic-suspense author who manages to stress me out even though I know that all will end well. And in my book, in a day and age where anybody can self-publish any random crap and declare him/herself an author, that's something.
It took me some time to pick up the book, mostly because I'm a moody reader but also because to me, it's kind of difficult to reproduce the magic of the McClouds series. Because of that, it also took me some time to get into the book, but then the pace picked up and I was in for a ride.
Like in her other books, My Next Breath is a fast paced story starring an alpha hero (Zade) and a badass as well as smart heroine (Simone). We also have a lot of action (plot wise) and steamy scenes (in my opinion Shanon McKenna along with Linda Howard create the best oversexed heroes...). And let's not forget the creepy vilains.
I really enjoyed Zade and Simone's couple as well as the interactions between Zade and Asa (he kind of made me think of Seth). And I know that it took me months to pick up the book, but now I really want to know what comes next. What happened to Luke?
Now, I have to go and buy the paper version for my bookcase :)
Shannon McKenna is the author who made me love romantic suspense and to this day, her McClouds & Friends series is still my favorite in that genre. To me, she is one of the best authors in the romance community regardless of genres and she's the only romantic-suspense author who manages to stress me out even though I know that all will end well. And in my book, in a day and age where anybody can self-publish any random crap and declare him/herself an author, that's something.
It took me some time to pick up the book, mostly because I'm a moody reader but also because to me, it's kind of difficult to reproduce the magic of the McClouds series. Because of that, it also took me some time to get into the book, but then the pace picked up and I was in for a ride.
Like in her other books, My Next Breath is a fast paced story starring an alpha hero (Zade) and a badass as well as smart heroine (Simone). We also have a lot of action (plot wise) and steamy scenes (in my opinion Shanon McKenna along with Linda Howard create the best oversexed heroes...). And let's not forget the creepy vilains.
I really enjoyed Zade and Simone's couple as well as the interactions between Zade and Asa (he kind of made me think of Seth). And I know that it took me months to pick up the book, but now I really want to know what comes next. What happened to Luke?
Now, I have to go and buy the paper version for my bookcase :)
August 20, 2017
Shannon McKenna does it again! If you read her regularly, this should come as no surprise—she never disappoints.
THE OBSIDIAN FILES series is a rollercoaster ride of action, sensuality, betrayal, suffering, and redemption. MY NEXT BREATH is book 2 in the series, picking up a few months after the first. When I saw who the heroine was, I admit I hesitated for a second. Simone had not been a favorite character from the first book, where she appeared briefly—as a potential enemy. My next thought was, “Oh…this is going to be good. If she’s going to be the heroine, there’s a LOT messed up in her life right now we don’t know about.” And I was right—the attraction between Simone and Zade is instantaneous but their secrets might be insurmountable if the truth is ever revealed.
Ms. McKenna has the gift of making you instantly care deeply about her characters. The paranormal aspects could be ripped from today’s headlines of breakthroughs in genetic manipulation and merging technology with the human body. The book’s visceral emotion keeps you on the edge of your seat as you watch the characters walk into situations you know are going to go sideways. Her beyond-steamy love scenes are breath-stealingly erotic and flow seamlessly from the action. Her suspense and torture scenes are skin-crawlingly creepy and showcase the nearly demonic depths that her twisted villains will descend to in their greedy malice. Her fight scenes leap off the page with detailed, staccato action that brings the reader right into the fray.
There’s a surprise around every corner, and always another disaster looming for the survivors of the Midlands experiments—a group of genetically and technologically modified escapees trying to survive and stop the twisted people who experimented on them. They walk a fine line between expediency and becoming what they fought to escape. You’ll find yourself re-reading the first two books in the series as you await the next story to find out how the overarching plot resolves.
Sexy, suspenseful, raw, and powerful—Shannon McKenna provides it all, masterfully, and you’ll find you just can’t wait for more.
THE OBSIDIAN FILES series is a rollercoaster ride of action, sensuality, betrayal, suffering, and redemption. MY NEXT BREATH is book 2 in the series, picking up a few months after the first. When I saw who the heroine was, I admit I hesitated for a second. Simone had not been a favorite character from the first book, where she appeared briefly—as a potential enemy. My next thought was, “Oh…this is going to be good. If she’s going to be the heroine, there’s a LOT messed up in her life right now we don’t know about.” And I was right—the attraction between Simone and Zade is instantaneous but their secrets might be insurmountable if the truth is ever revealed.
Ms. McKenna has the gift of making you instantly care deeply about her characters. The paranormal aspects could be ripped from today’s headlines of breakthroughs in genetic manipulation and merging technology with the human body. The book’s visceral emotion keeps you on the edge of your seat as you watch the characters walk into situations you know are going to go sideways. Her beyond-steamy love scenes are breath-stealingly erotic and flow seamlessly from the action. Her suspense and torture scenes are skin-crawlingly creepy and showcase the nearly demonic depths that her twisted villains will descend to in their greedy malice. Her fight scenes leap off the page with detailed, staccato action that brings the reader right into the fray.
There’s a surprise around every corner, and always another disaster looming for the survivors of the Midlands experiments—a group of genetically and technologically modified escapees trying to survive and stop the twisted people who experimented on them. They walk a fine line between expediency and becoming what they fought to escape. You’ll find yourself re-reading the first two books in the series as you await the next story to find out how the overarching plot resolves.
Sexy, suspenseful, raw, and powerful—Shannon McKenna provides it all, masterfully, and you’ll find you just can’t wait for more.
August 15, 2017
I received through NetGalley an ARC of My Next Breath (The Obsidian Files #2) by Shannon McKenna.
And boy oh boy is it good!
For those who don't know the author, well, you should!
Her books are a mix of hot romance, mind blowing suspense and creepy twisted villains.
Those aren't any romantic books... Those are thrillers that you read and read and read...
Extreme books that take you to another dimension to the point where you forget the reality you're living in as long as your head is buried in the pages!
And who doesn't need a break every now and then?
My favorite fictional family is the McClouds.
Never heard of them?
Well look them up!
This is NOT a SPOILER FREE zone.
You’ve been WARNED.
If you ever tumbled over my review, I hope it will be the push you needed to get hold of McKenna's books.
All it takes is one sentence.
One sentence and you’re hooked.
The action doesn’t need you to start reading to begin. It has already started and you have to pick up your pace to catch up with the current events.
So here you are already impatient and waiting for what is next.
You are at the first page and so is Zade.
He is in the car and so you become sitting next to him.
You're in his mind.
You hear what he hears, see what he sees and wait as he waits.
At the beginning, it is all calculated, it is all about the right moment…
When to make the right move… or the wrong one… depends on how you see it.
Oh it’s totally wrong – ethically speaking, of course.
But… it’s totally right since that’s the trigger of a great story of passion and suspense.
A night watch and a staged attack… that’s how the book bursts open.
After reading the first book of the series, we are all on Zade’s side. His actions are justified. He is doing what he’s doing for a good reason.
We are all team Zade. Yeay! You go man!
But then, we met Simone. And it only took a few lines to switch teams!
Yeah sure, we had a glimpse of her before but now, we get to know her.
And well, sorry Zade… you’re motivated, smart and hot but she wins.
She is not some Ice Queen as we were lead to think at first.
She is a fighter and survivor, in her own passive way… even if she’s not aware of her actions at first. Later on, all that is amplified, not so passive anymore. She IS the action.
With every turned page, we ache to know more.
We are waiting for the action, the final battle – we do know it is coming.
We are waiting for the moment of truth – also we do know it is coming.
We are waiting for the other characters to come back – will they?
And that is not boring at all. On the contrary. IT is the wait that makes the excitement even better and the end that drives us to ask for more.
Oh, the ending! And I was afraid to get there!
The end means another book
Another book means another year (or so) of wait.
I needed more already and I was not even finished with the book in my hands!!
Now let’s get to the creepy factor.
Every now and then, we take a break from our heroes and we get a look at the conspirators of the great evil.
We get a taste of the evil minds messing with the lives of our Modifieds. We get wired up, on our nerves, we hate them. And as much as we hate being with them, we do know that they are going down one way or the other.
Our minds go like “oh you’ll see you evil scums, they will win, they will end you, WE know something you don’t” and somehow, through that, McKenna gives us some kind of power and comfort while reading.
Wait. I do not mean that knowing this fact will affect your reading in any way.
NO.
The excitement is better, the reading is better, and most of all McKenna always hides some little surprises that you do not expect.
Good surprises? Bad surprises?
Who knows?
It’s only a few pages till the discovery that will make you cry, laugh or simply shock you.
And yes! There will be books on the way…
There is no reality in which they stop.
Is there?
Let’s just keep the happy thoughts and go back to My Next breath…
And oh yes, it is my next breath… it will be for the whole next year…
Unless, of course, the next book in the series would be published earlier…
Anyway… let’s focus!
While reading, all I could think of was:
There are too many villains in this book. With every page turn, we wonder, who’s the final confrontation going to be with.
Let’s just forget them for a moment and talk a bit about Asa.
If, in the first book I found him cute, now I am totally in L O V E with him!
I wonder who his match is going to be. And doesn’t everyone owe him a favor?
That would be cool to watch… sorry, read.
Is his story next? Is it Luke’s? Brenner’s? Hannah?
We’ll see…
When I reached the last few pages, I felt my heart jumping through my chest into my hand.
I even threw my Kindle away at some point.
The excitement, the fear were more than I could handle.
You know how, when you watch a movie, sometimes you close your eyes because you can’t look but you still hear what’s happening?
Well, guess what, I tried that with the book and it didn’t work.
If I close my eyes, everything stops too.
Yeah, I know… but that scene at the end made my heart miss a beat.
I needed to breath before diving in the book again.
And…
IT WAS WORTH IT
I LOVED EVERY BIT OF THE ENDING
EVERY BIT OF THE STORY
And I truly think that what makes McKenna’s stories great are those little insecurities of her characters, the little flaws that despite having them, the heroes turn out to be great!
Let’s give some examples, shall we?
When it comes to Zade:
“So you need to spell it all out for me. Are you my girlfriend now?”
(Read the book, with the whole context, you’ll get better the idea.)
As for Simone:
“Display her weird mental wiring before the first date. Great. Cue the slow clap.”
Simply Awesome!
No more details about the content of the book.
If you’re reading my review, then go pick it up!
Ok wait for the release date first…
August, 29th
Keep that in mind!
So… where were we?
Oh yes!
This book is to be read and re-read.
I know I am going to do that very very soon!
From a great beginning and encounter, hot sex scenes and creepy, scary, twisted villains to a great surprising nerve sitting heartbeat stopping ending!
Living in these pages for the few hours that I did was floating to another world where despite all the misery, you would like to be stuck there with the characters.
A book loaded with suspense, thrills, mind-blowing discoveries and erotic scenes.
From Humoristic to Sarcastic replies…
From Heart-melting to life-threatening moments…
From Breath-grabbing suspense to slow comforting scenes…
Shannon McKenna’s plots are nothing but EXTREME.
OH YES! YOUR MIND WILL BE MESSED UP!
But the thing is, you want it to be.
And boy oh boy is it good!
For those who don't know the author, well, you should!
Her books are a mix of hot romance, mind blowing suspense and creepy twisted villains.
Those aren't any romantic books... Those are thrillers that you read and read and read...
Extreme books that take you to another dimension to the point where you forget the reality you're living in as long as your head is buried in the pages!
And who doesn't need a break every now and then?
My favorite fictional family is the McClouds.
Never heard of them?
Well look them up!
This is NOT a SPOILER FREE zone.
You’ve been WARNED.
If you ever tumbled over my review, I hope it will be the push you needed to get hold of McKenna's books.
All it takes is one sentence.
One sentence and you’re hooked.
The action doesn’t need you to start reading to begin. It has already started and you have to pick up your pace to catch up with the current events.
So here you are already impatient and waiting for what is next.
You are at the first page and so is Zade.
He is in the car and so you become sitting next to him.
You're in his mind.
You hear what he hears, see what he sees and wait as he waits.
At the beginning, it is all calculated, it is all about the right moment…
When to make the right move… or the wrong one… depends on how you see it.
Oh it’s totally wrong – ethically speaking, of course.
But… it’s totally right since that’s the trigger of a great story of passion and suspense.
A night watch and a staged attack… that’s how the book bursts open.
After reading the first book of the series, we are all on Zade’s side. His actions are justified. He is doing what he’s doing for a good reason.
We are all team Zade. Yeay! You go man!
But then, we met Simone. And it only took a few lines to switch teams!
Yeah sure, we had a glimpse of her before but now, we get to know her.
And well, sorry Zade… you’re motivated, smart and hot but she wins.
She is not some Ice Queen as we were lead to think at first.
She is a fighter and survivor, in her own passive way… even if she’s not aware of her actions at first. Later on, all that is amplified, not so passive anymore. She IS the action.
With every turned page, we ache to know more.
We are waiting for the action, the final battle – we do know it is coming.
We are waiting for the moment of truth – also we do know it is coming.
We are waiting for the other characters to come back – will they?
And that is not boring at all. On the contrary. IT is the wait that makes the excitement even better and the end that drives us to ask for more.
Oh, the ending! And I was afraid to get there!
The end means another book
Another book means another year (or so) of wait.
I needed more already and I was not even finished with the book in my hands!!
Now let’s get to the creepy factor.
Every now and then, we take a break from our heroes and we get a look at the conspirators of the great evil.
We get a taste of the evil minds messing with the lives of our Modifieds. We get wired up, on our nerves, we hate them. And as much as we hate being with them, we do know that they are going down one way or the other.
Our minds go like “oh you’ll see you evil scums, they will win, they will end you, WE know something you don’t” and somehow, through that, McKenna gives us some kind of power and comfort while reading.
Wait. I do not mean that knowing this fact will affect your reading in any way.
NO.
The excitement is better, the reading is better, and most of all McKenna always hides some little surprises that you do not expect.
Good surprises? Bad surprises?
Who knows?
It’s only a few pages till the discovery that will make you cry, laugh or simply shock you.
And yes! There will be books on the way…
There is no reality in which they stop.
Is there?
Let’s just keep the happy thoughts and go back to My Next breath…
And oh yes, it is my next breath… it will be for the whole next year…
Unless, of course, the next book in the series would be published earlier…
Anyway… let’s focus!
While reading, all I could think of was:
There are too many villains in this book. With every page turn, we wonder, who’s the final confrontation going to be with.
Let’s just forget them for a moment and talk a bit about Asa.
If, in the first book I found him cute, now I am totally in L O V E with him!
I wonder who his match is going to be. And doesn’t everyone owe him a favor?
That would be cool to watch… sorry, read.
Is his story next? Is it Luke’s? Brenner’s? Hannah?
We’ll see…
When I reached the last few pages, I felt my heart jumping through my chest into my hand.
I even threw my Kindle away at some point.
The excitement, the fear were more than I could handle.
You know how, when you watch a movie, sometimes you close your eyes because you can’t look but you still hear what’s happening?
Well, guess what, I tried that with the book and it didn’t work.
If I close my eyes, everything stops too.
Yeah, I know… but that scene at the end made my heart miss a beat.
I needed to breath before diving in the book again.
And…
IT WAS WORTH IT
I LOVED EVERY BIT OF THE ENDING
EVERY BIT OF THE STORY
And I truly think that what makes McKenna’s stories great are those little insecurities of her characters, the little flaws that despite having them, the heroes turn out to be great!
Let’s give some examples, shall we?
When it comes to Zade:
“So you need to spell it all out for me. Are you my girlfriend now?”
(Read the book, with the whole context, you’ll get better the idea.)
As for Simone:
“Display her weird mental wiring before the first date. Great. Cue the slow clap.”
Simply Awesome!
No more details about the content of the book.
If you’re reading my review, then go pick it up!
Ok wait for the release date first…
August, 29th
Keep that in mind!
So… where were we?
Oh yes!
This book is to be read and re-read.
I know I am going to do that very very soon!
From a great beginning and encounter, hot sex scenes and creepy, scary, twisted villains to a great surprising nerve sitting heartbeat stopping ending!
Living in these pages for the few hours that I did was floating to another world where despite all the misery, you would like to be stuck there with the characters.
A book loaded with suspense, thrills, mind-blowing discoveries and erotic scenes.
From Humoristic to Sarcastic replies…
From Heart-melting to life-threatening moments…
From Breath-grabbing suspense to slow comforting scenes…
Shannon McKenna’s plots are nothing but EXTREME.
OH YES! YOUR MIND WILL BE MESSED UP!
But the thing is, you want it to be.
April 21, 2019
Great suspense and one huge twist
Very hot sci-fi about genetically modified super soldiers who were experimented on as children and managed to escape the evil doctors and corporation who used them as fodder. This is Zade's story and the only reason it gets 4 stars is how way OTT he behaves. This will be like candy to some readers, but it is more like a jelly bean thing for me - just not my fav. The heroine is a secondary character from the previous novel, and I am glad she gets her day to shine. Her character has a huge reveal that completely surprised me. She also goes through a complete personality change, so she was a bit of a coaster ride. It fits the story but I wished we had seen a little more of her buttoned up side leak through at certain points. As a genuis level biomedical inventor, I had some expectations, and only some were realized. She felt inconsistent, but again it is somewhat justified.
This story excels in non-stop action and suspense. It is also graphically violent, contains torture and has threat of rape. So I guess it isn't just the alpha who is OTT. So are the many villains. But the tech in neat, and gets more than just cursory attention. In fact, the tech is the single thing that moves the plot along. Everyone wants it. Some people have it. And certain twisted individuals will kill to get it.
Very hot sci-fi about genetically modified super soldiers who were experimented on as children and managed to escape the evil doctors and corporation who used them as fodder. This is Zade's story and the only reason it gets 4 stars is how way OTT he behaves. This will be like candy to some readers, but it is more like a jelly bean thing for me - just not my fav. The heroine is a secondary character from the previous novel, and I am glad she gets her day to shine. Her character has a huge reveal that completely surprised me. She also goes through a complete personality change, so she was a bit of a coaster ride. It fits the story but I wished we had seen a little more of her buttoned up side leak through at certain points. As a genuis level biomedical inventor, I had some expectations, and only some were realized. She felt inconsistent, but again it is somewhat justified.
This story excels in non-stop action and suspense. It is also graphically violent, contains torture and has threat of rape. So I guess it isn't just the alpha who is OTT. So are the many villains. But the tech in neat, and gets more than just cursory attention. In fact, the tech is the single thing that moves the plot along. Everyone wants it. Some people have it. And certain twisted individuals will kill to get it.
October 25, 2017
2.5 stars. I found it difficult to relate to the characters because of the over the top dialogue. I will give it points for the decent plot and level of suspense, but even that feels a little heavy handed.
August 30, 2017
You can never go wrong with a Shannon McKenna book, ever! I am such a huge fan.
This is the second installment of the Obsidian files and I am loving this book and this series. WOW! She can write and I love the paranormal edge.
This book is Zade's book and he is determined to find his brother, Luke, by whatever means necessary and if necessary that includes seducing the buttoned up Simone Brightman who has developed some of the equipment used to program their brains.
Simone is having her own hard time and she's not sure exactly what it is, but she has an idea and it's not good. She is afraid she is heading down the road in her mother's tracks, and going to die of the same awful disease. She has sequestered herself in her condo to work and hasn't come out for anything, which has made making contact with her very difficult for Zade.
But tonight she's out with a group of kids and Zade is going to take his opportunity. He has to get to Luke.
What he finds out is Simone might be in as big a trouble as Luke if not more in the immediate and sets out to help her. He'll find Luke, who he hopes is still alive, but he needs Simone alive to help..
I love the twists and turns that McKenna puts in her books, they are never boring. The characters are always full of personality, whether they're good or bad, and the plot always thickens.
I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This is the second installment of the Obsidian files and I am loving this book and this series. WOW! She can write and I love the paranormal edge.
This book is Zade's book and he is determined to find his brother, Luke, by whatever means necessary and if necessary that includes seducing the buttoned up Simone Brightman who has developed some of the equipment used to program their brains.
Simone is having her own hard time and she's not sure exactly what it is, but she has an idea and it's not good. She is afraid she is heading down the road in her mother's tracks, and going to die of the same awful disease. She has sequestered herself in her condo to work and hasn't come out for anything, which has made making contact with her very difficult for Zade.
But tonight she's out with a group of kids and Zade is going to take his opportunity. He has to get to Luke.
What he finds out is Simone might be in as big a trouble as Luke if not more in the immediate and sets out to help her. He'll find Luke, who he hopes is still alive, but he needs Simone alive to help..
I love the twists and turns that McKenna puts in her books, they are never boring. The characters are always full of personality, whether they're good or bad, and the plot always thickens.
I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
August 20, 2017
I have been a fan of Shannon McKenna’s books for years now. I’m completely in love with the McCloud brothers and know what to expect whenever I find one of her books: Intense storylines; Militaristic, alpha males with will-power made of iron, who’s only soft spot is the women they love; and bad guys who aren’t just evil antagonists – they’re Eeeeeevil: sadistic, greedy, intelligent and difficult to defeat.
My Next Breath does not disappoint. Zade is a genetically enhanced subject in a private ‘super soldier’ type experiment – or at least he was until he escaped from the program. He is desperately searching for his brother, and will stop at nothing to find him, resorting to stalking our heroine, Simone, as he believes that she is the key to finding him.
Meanwhile Simone is struggling. Her life, since fiancé number 2 left, consists of nothing but work, which she does from home. She is worried about her health and believes that she is experiencing the onset of the same disease that supposedly killed her mother. She barely leaves her apartment, except to tutor and mentor some at-risk youths. Which is where Zade seizes the opportunity to set her up so he can meet her and seduce her, and holy wow does he ever!
Zade soon discovers that Simone is in serious trouble. She has no idea that she is actually a pawn in Obsidian’s machinations. Zade will need to help her fight against their control if he has any hope of finding his brother, and keeping both Simone and himself alive.
This book is one wild ride from start to finish. The romance between Zade and Simone is intense and passionate, and, as is typical with Ms McKenna’s heroines, helps Simone find confidence within herself, and an inner strength to stand up against the enemy. So much happens that it is a shock to realise that it all takes place over a few days, not months. It does end very abruptly, and leaves me raging for more, but then, as a long-time fan of Shannon McKenna’s books, I should be used to this.
I was utterly delighted to be offered this ARC in exchange for an honest review as, as previously mentioned, I love Shannon McKenna’s books. I did find My Next Breath a smidge difficult to follow at first, as there’s a lot of technobabble which took me a bit of getting used to. However after the first few chapters the acronyms and flux-capacitor language faded to the background. I found that I didn’t need to understand them to follow the plot, or increase my enjoyment of the book.
Zade also took a few chapters to warm up to. He is stalking Simone with a single minded determination. He has decided to seduce her so he can find out what she knows. The fact that he is heavily attracted to her just makes the task that much easier. He does something seriously dodgy to set up an initial meeting with her and then takes full advantage of her vulnerability. This left me feeling very uncomfortable. I adore alpha male heroes, but this was a little too much for me. Thankfully, Zade does redeem himself, and I grew to love him, but that first impression left a sour taste in my mouth.
I admit that I found the big climactic scene at the end a little… anti-climactic. I found myself thinking “that’s it? Really?” The antagonists are very powerful, calculating, and just plain eeeevil, and I felt that the final confrontation scene didn’t really do them justice.
Despite Zade’s crazed stalker introduction and the ‘too easy’ feel of the end climactic scene, I will be purchasing My Next Breath when it’s released because I thoroughly enjoyed it. Zade and Simone are very hot together, and they complement each other beautifully. I found myself getting completely absorbed in the story and didn’t notice the hours passing as I devoured the ARC. I’m now waiting for the next book in the Obsidian Files series with great anticipation. In the meantime, I think I’ll visit with the McCloud Brothers again…
My Next Breath does not disappoint. Zade is a genetically enhanced subject in a private ‘super soldier’ type experiment – or at least he was until he escaped from the program. He is desperately searching for his brother, and will stop at nothing to find him, resorting to stalking our heroine, Simone, as he believes that she is the key to finding him.
Meanwhile Simone is struggling. Her life, since fiancé number 2 left, consists of nothing but work, which she does from home. She is worried about her health and believes that she is experiencing the onset of the same disease that supposedly killed her mother. She barely leaves her apartment, except to tutor and mentor some at-risk youths. Which is where Zade seizes the opportunity to set her up so he can meet her and seduce her, and holy wow does he ever!
Zade soon discovers that Simone is in serious trouble. She has no idea that she is actually a pawn in Obsidian’s machinations. Zade will need to help her fight against their control if he has any hope of finding his brother, and keeping both Simone and himself alive.
This book is one wild ride from start to finish. The romance between Zade and Simone is intense and passionate, and, as is typical with Ms McKenna’s heroines, helps Simone find confidence within herself, and an inner strength to stand up against the enemy. So much happens that it is a shock to realise that it all takes place over a few days, not months. It does end very abruptly, and leaves me raging for more, but then, as a long-time fan of Shannon McKenna’s books, I should be used to this.
I was utterly delighted to be offered this ARC in exchange for an honest review as, as previously mentioned, I love Shannon McKenna’s books. I did find My Next Breath a smidge difficult to follow at first, as there’s a lot of technobabble which took me a bit of getting used to. However after the first few chapters the acronyms and flux-capacitor language faded to the background. I found that I didn’t need to understand them to follow the plot, or increase my enjoyment of the book.
Zade also took a few chapters to warm up to. He is stalking Simone with a single minded determination. He has decided to seduce her so he can find out what she knows. The fact that he is heavily attracted to her just makes the task that much easier. He does something seriously dodgy to set up an initial meeting with her and then takes full advantage of her vulnerability. This left me feeling very uncomfortable. I adore alpha male heroes, but this was a little too much for me. Thankfully, Zade does redeem himself, and I grew to love him, but that first impression left a sour taste in my mouth.
I admit that I found the big climactic scene at the end a little… anti-climactic. I found myself thinking “that’s it? Really?” The antagonists are very powerful, calculating, and just plain eeeevil, and I felt that the final confrontation scene didn’t really do them justice.
Despite Zade’s crazed stalker introduction and the ‘too easy’ feel of the end climactic scene, I will be purchasing My Next Breath when it’s released because I thoroughly enjoyed it. Zade and Simone are very hot together, and they complement each other beautifully. I found myself getting completely absorbed in the story and didn’t notice the hours passing as I devoured the ARC. I’m now waiting for the next book in the Obsidian Files series with great anticipation. In the meantime, I think I’ll visit with the McCloud Brothers again…
May 27, 2018
Review: This is the second book in Shannon McKenna's newest series, The Obsidian Files, about a group of genetically modified super humans. I need to give fair warning to the faint of heart: Shannon's writing is smoking hot and the sexual tension rising off the pages is truly erotically charged. If you don't like strong alphas and super smart women who can control these men and the truly freaky stuff that goes on around them?
There's always a creepy sideshow going on with some of these characters--the super powers don't come without human cost (aka "the ones that didn't make it through the genetic modifications") and they add to the whole paranormal feeling you get when you're reading them.
Simone was in the first book as a secondary character, but in this book she takes the lead. She's smart and highly successful but she's not aware of the dark undercurrents running underneath her job, her relationship with her stepfather, and the past she believes to be the truth. She's changed from the last book--she's not the sophisticated show pony she was before. Luckily, Zane likes her just as well if not better than before.
Zane is looking for his brother Luke, who'd been kidnapped by one of their former escapees, Mark Bolund. As young orphans who were basically disposable, they'd all been trapped in a facility and experimented on. The Obsidian Group's goal was to create the perfect soldier, but their methods were horrific. Few survived the early testing, but Zane, Luke and Mark along with a few others had escaped. Mark had gone to the dark side, but why had he returned and taken Luke? And when Mark was killed without revealing where Luke was?
The clock's ticking if they want to find him alive.
Sizzling suspense with nonstop action that keeps you burning the two a.m. oil. I really loved the McCloud crowd and their entire series so I'm excited that Shannon's got another group I can invest in. Who am I hoping is the next in the series? Maybe Luke, or...even better...Asa. Please!!!
Great read, thanks!
September 4, 2017
'My Next Breath' by Shannon McKenna is Book Two in "The Obsidian Files". This is the story of Zade Ryan and Simone Brightman. I have not yet read the previous book, so for me this was a standalone book.
This was a very exciting read for sure...it makes me want to find the previous book now!
Zade and his friends who he feels close to as brothers have been transformed somewhat but the Obsidian experiment. Zade which have made them stronger, sense of smell stronger, hearing better and some other things. It also has certain side effects and triggers that they have to learn to overcome and deal with.
Zade is trying to locate his 'brother' who was once engaged to Simone. In addition Simone has invented things that have caused issue for them in the past. Zade goal is to get to close to Simone and learning what he can about her and what she knows of his 'brother'. But what Zade didn't know would happen was that he would be so drawn to her. In addition he is learning that she is one of them in them....that she too has been tampered with without her knowledge. Her Step-Father / Boss if very controlling of her and Zade is trying to now protect her. How will Simone handle it when she learns how she has been betrayed by Zade and others?
"My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read."
This was a very exciting read for sure...it makes me want to find the previous book now!
Zade and his friends who he feels close to as brothers have been transformed somewhat but the Obsidian experiment. Zade which have made them stronger, sense of smell stronger, hearing better and some other things. It also has certain side effects and triggers that they have to learn to overcome and deal with.
Zade is trying to locate his 'brother' who was once engaged to Simone. In addition Simone has invented things that have caused issue for them in the past. Zade goal is to get to close to Simone and learning what he can about her and what she knows of his 'brother'. But what Zade didn't know would happen was that he would be so drawn to her. In addition he is learning that she is one of them in them....that she too has been tampered with without her knowledge. Her Step-Father / Boss if very controlling of her and Zade is trying to now protect her. How will Simone handle it when she learns how she has been betrayed by Zade and others?
"My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read."
August 31, 2017
Phew, this book was intense.
I haven't read book one yet ( Right Through Me ) and have to admit I felt like I was trying to play catchup for a lot of the book when it came to the Obsidian group and their plot--Zane explained some of it to Simone at around 50% and more of it about a quarter of the book or so later, which definitely helped, but I'd definitely recommend reading the books in order if you can.
Even without having read book one, though, this one was a heck of a read. Zane and Simone are sympathetic characters, and their chemistry is scorch-the-pages hot. The action scenes are intense, and even if I didn't always understand 100% of the background for what was happening and why, it was still a heck of a ride. I'm definitely looking forward to reading more from this series and finding out what's in store for all of the Midlanders!
Rating: 4 stars / A-
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
I haven't read book one yet ( Right Through Me ) and have to admit I felt like I was trying to play catchup for a lot of the book when it came to the Obsidian group and their plot--Zane explained some of it to Simone at around 50% and more of it about a quarter of the book or so later, which definitely helped, but I'd definitely recommend reading the books in order if you can.
Even without having read book one, though, this one was a heck of a read. Zane and Simone are sympathetic characters, and their chemistry is scorch-the-pages hot. The action scenes are intense, and even if I didn't always understand 100% of the background for what was happening and why, it was still a heck of a ride. I'm definitely looking forward to reading more from this series and finding out what's in store for all of the Midlanders!
Rating: 4 stars / A-
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
August 17, 2017
This is Shannon McKenna in true crazysauced, cracktastic form. Her heroes are always gaga with lust, but Zade was totally cranked up, amped up, and dialed up for Simone. Simone is also a new fierce person, bearing no resemblance to her pale, polished former self (she was Noah's jilted fiancee in Right Through Me, book 1).
It's hard to describe Zade and Simone's story without giving away critical spoilers to the Obsidian universe. You really need to read the first book (Caro and Noah's story) and wait for the next book to get more answers. Fingers crossed for Asa's book soon.
One nitpick: the story takes some time to gel. Even having read the first book, I was a bit lost when Zade and Simone first meet. But once they join forces, it is game on. Like every Shannon McKenna book, the action and sex are almost nonstop. This was a sexy, sleek, sci-fi thrill ride.
Note: I received an ARC in exchange for a honest review.
It's hard to describe Zade and Simone's story without giving away critical spoilers to the Obsidian universe. You really need to read the first book (Caro and Noah's story) and wait for the next book to get more answers. Fingers crossed for Asa's book soon.
One nitpick: the story takes some time to gel. Even having read the first book, I was a bit lost when Zade and Simone first meet. But once they join forces, it is game on. Like every Shannon McKenna book, the action and sex are almost nonstop. This was a sexy, sleek, sci-fi thrill ride.
Note: I received an ARC in exchange for a honest review.
August 18, 2017
I really enjoyed Zade & Simone's story. I read this as a stand-alone, as I hadn't read the first book in the series, Right Through Me. The plot was interesting, slightly tangent to the ones in the McCloud brothers books. Zade was fighting for his brother, and Simone was fighting for her independence--together, they made their way through a tangled web of evil men plotting selfish, terrible acts.
All in all, it made me want to read more, which I'll need to do now--when #3 comes out.
All in all, it made me want to read more, which I'll need to do now--when #3 comes out.
August 22, 2017
I've been a Shannon McKenna fan since I read Behind Closed Doors (McCloud #1) back in 2002, and I've yet to be disappointed by one of her novels--this one is no exception. It includes all the things that made me a fan of her work from the very beginning: strong, handsome, smart and sexy alpha males--often in the military or dark ops, their singular devotion to and intense protection of the women they love, women who all have wills of their own and strong backbones to not be pushed around by those men, and some of the sickest, most evil and depraved villains in modern fiction. I simply could not put this book down, and it gets 4.75-stars from this reader.
I strongly recommend first reading book #1 of The Obsidian Files, entitled, Right Through Me. The torturous background endured by the heroes in this series is beyond an easy explanation, and even though I read Right Through Me, it still took a while to get my bearings, as the past was a slow reveal. My Next Breath carries on that tradition, but doesn't completely cover the history revealed in the first novel, a history that I feel is essential to understanding this second novel in the series.
Zade, the hero in My Next Breath is, as was Noah Gallagher in the first novel, a non-consenting, genetically modified and enhanced, superbly fit, super soldier, who, unlike many of the others who were experimented upon, managed to survive what was done to him with some degree of his sanity intact. He wages a constant and painful battle against his programming. His brother, Luke, was also a victim of the same, and he was abducted by one of the other program victims whose experiences turned him into a greedy, malevolent, soulless and heartless villian, with an agenda of his own. In this novel, Zade is trying to find Luke, fearing that he might already be dead, but wanting proof-postiive of that fact.
Many of the devices used in those evil experiments were originally designed to help people, and they were designed by the ex-fiance of Noah Gallagher, Simone Brightman. Simone is still reeling from the break-up of her engagement to Noah, but Zade believes that she may be the key he needs to find his missing brother. She was a buttoned-up, tightly controlled and cold fish of a woman with Noah, but when Zade sets up a situation where he can meet and rescue her from would-be thugs, she's anything but the frigid woman she was with Noah. Although I was less than thrilled with the manner in which she was manipulated and lied to by Zade, his love and concern for his missing brother, trumped my feelings about the way he chose to initially met Simone.
Simone has worries of her own--her mother died from a genetic brain abnormality and she's beginning to show the symptoms of the same malady, but when she tries to have her DNA tested, her stepfather, a controlling businessman who seems to be using Simone for his own purposes, must find a way to stop her and get her back under his control. As Zade spends time with her, he begins to suspect that she too may have been experimented upon and modified.
And all of that is just for starters--this is a fast-paced, action-packed thrill ride of a story. It contains both graphic violence, scenes of torture, threats of rape and some of the hottest sex scenes you're likely to find in modern romantic fiction. Some of the aforementioned may be triggers for some, so this information comes as a warning to those readers.
If you're wondering why I rated this excellent novel at marginally less than 5-stars, it's that what I was expecting would be a wildly exciting climatic ending seemed to be just a bit of a let-down and fell just a tad short of thrilling ending I expected. It also comes with the information that there is still a cliffhanger at the end, in addition to the HEA, and the next novel in the series cannot arrive soon enough for me.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advance reader copy of this novel and received no compensation for doing so. The opinions expressed are my own.
I strongly recommend first reading book #1 of The Obsidian Files, entitled, Right Through Me. The torturous background endured by the heroes in this series is beyond an easy explanation, and even though I read Right Through Me, it still took a while to get my bearings, as the past was a slow reveal. My Next Breath carries on that tradition, but doesn't completely cover the history revealed in the first novel, a history that I feel is essential to understanding this second novel in the series.
Zade, the hero in My Next Breath is, as was Noah Gallagher in the first novel, a non-consenting, genetically modified and enhanced, superbly fit, super soldier, who, unlike many of the others who were experimented upon, managed to survive what was done to him with some degree of his sanity intact. He wages a constant and painful battle against his programming. His brother, Luke, was also a victim of the same, and he was abducted by one of the other program victims whose experiences turned him into a greedy, malevolent, soulless and heartless villian, with an agenda of his own. In this novel, Zade is trying to find Luke, fearing that he might already be dead, but wanting proof-postiive of that fact.
Many of the devices used in those evil experiments were originally designed to help people, and they were designed by the ex-fiance of Noah Gallagher, Simone Brightman. Simone is still reeling from the break-up of her engagement to Noah, but Zade believes that she may be the key he needs to find his missing brother. She was a buttoned-up, tightly controlled and cold fish of a woman with Noah, but when Zade sets up a situation where he can meet and rescue her from would-be thugs, she's anything but the frigid woman she was with Noah. Although I was less than thrilled with the manner in which she was manipulated and lied to by Zade, his love and concern for his missing brother, trumped my feelings about the way he chose to initially met Simone.
Simone has worries of her own--her mother died from a genetic brain abnormality and she's beginning to show the symptoms of the same malady, but when she tries to have her DNA tested, her stepfather, a controlling businessman who seems to be using Simone for his own purposes, must find a way to stop her and get her back under his control. As Zade spends time with her, he begins to suspect that she too may have been experimented upon and modified.
And all of that is just for starters--this is a fast-paced, action-packed thrill ride of a story. It contains both graphic violence, scenes of torture, threats of rape and some of the hottest sex scenes you're likely to find in modern romantic fiction. Some of the aforementioned may be triggers for some, so this information comes as a warning to those readers.
If you're wondering why I rated this excellent novel at marginally less than 5-stars, it's that what I was expecting would be a wildly exciting climatic ending seemed to be just a bit of a let-down and fell just a tad short of thrilling ending I expected. It also comes with the information that there is still a cliffhanger at the end, in addition to the HEA, and the next novel in the series cannot arrive soon enough for me.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advance reader copy of this novel and received no compensation for doing so. The opinions expressed are my own.
April 28, 2020
Original review: https://myshelfbooks.wordpress.com/20...
This book could be a good example to illustrate that writing Romance is not easy. I know this genre has well-delimited walls, but covering the gaps between them with sex is not enough to write a good Romance book. Yeah, yeah. We all enjoy the mandatory hunk displaying his mastery at sex, but that shouldn’t be the goal of a book that is not labelled as Erotica. That is precisely the main sin of this story. But I’m getting ahead of myself. Let’s activate our reviewing framework and see what we have here!
This book continues the story from the previous one, so we have Zade (an enhanced ex-soldier) desperately looking for his brother. His last hope rests in the shoulders of the scientist Simone and her involvement in the cyborg projects. At first, he only wanted to get closer to her to obtian information, but it soon was clear that she needed especial protection. Clothes will be dropped, secrets will be reavealed and plots will thicken as much as… uhm… nevermind. By now I guess you can imagine that Zade and Simone don’t spend their time together playing Pictionary. Will those previously mentioned secrets get in the middle of such… heated love?
This book has two genres in one. We have the one that is expected: Romantic Suspense. And the one we have for more than 50% of the book: Erotica. That, pardon me the pun, sucks in this case. This is not the kind of book I pick to read pages and pages of monkey, rabbit and who-knows-what-else sex. It started OK, with the characters meeting in seedy circunstances and getting away from the first dangerous situation. But then, they become two extremely horny human beings that can only think about sex, even though both of them have plenty of worries to keep them occupied with something else. But no. Everything is halted so these two can have as much naughty time as possible. And we are talking about an enhanced hunk who, for reasons, was also modified to perform better sexually. They keep going and going. And when you think they are drained… they go for it again. It’s exhausting and pretty much uninteresting when there were so many plot threads to explore. At least, I must admit those scenes are well written.
Leaving that aside, there is also good action and fighting scenes. It just take a little while to get to them. It has good villains, albeit basic ones. It is the kind of bad guys that are bad for the sake of it. Motivations are not clear, but after so much sex, I didn’t mind at all the change of scenary. But the first book was much better at exploring the foes of the tale. This time they barely have much focus, so their development is not as good as the one we had with Mark and his soldiers. The ending is a bit confusing with all those exchanges of control codes and it all seems a bit easier than expected, but once again, I won’t complain about the action. Better that than more naked time.
I do not dislike the main couple. How could I? The only thing I know is that both of them are gorgeous and have more stamina than twenty marathon runners at their peak. Zade is your classic Romance hero: big muscles, great good looks, superb sex skills, extremely protective and mildly possessive… And I guess he must be nice, but that is just a blant supposition. He obviously is not the greatest bother, because he forgets about Luke waaaay too easily. Simone is a bit weird. The scientist changes her behaviour too abruptly for my taste. It’s like she gets emotionally cold and feverishly horny at the same time. I’m not sure if her development makes much sense, but I rolled with it to make the reading lighter.
With the way they behave those two, I refuse to talk about their romantic relationship; because there is none. Those “I love you” in the end are hard to believe when their bodies are still burning the overdose of endorphines after their sweaty meetings. Oh well, I guess they will be happily ever after as long as they don’t get muscle cramps.
This book could be a good example to illustrate that writing Romance is not easy. I know this genre has well-delimited walls, but covering the gaps between them with sex is not enough to write a good Romance book. Yeah, yeah. We all enjoy the mandatory hunk displaying his mastery at sex, but that shouldn’t be the goal of a book that is not labelled as Erotica. That is precisely the main sin of this story. But I’m getting ahead of myself. Let’s activate our reviewing framework and see what we have here!
This book continues the story from the previous one, so we have Zade (an enhanced ex-soldier) desperately looking for his brother. His last hope rests in the shoulders of the scientist Simone and her involvement in the cyborg projects. At first, he only wanted to get closer to her to obtian information, but it soon was clear that she needed especial protection. Clothes will be dropped, secrets will be reavealed and plots will thicken as much as… uhm… nevermind. By now I guess you can imagine that Zade and Simone don’t spend their time together playing Pictionary. Will those previously mentioned secrets get in the middle of such… heated love?
This book has two genres in one. We have the one that is expected: Romantic Suspense. And the one we have for more than 50% of the book: Erotica. That, pardon me the pun, sucks in this case. This is not the kind of book I pick to read pages and pages of monkey, rabbit and who-knows-what-else sex. It started OK, with the characters meeting in seedy circunstances and getting away from the first dangerous situation. But then, they become two extremely horny human beings that can only think about sex, even though both of them have plenty of worries to keep them occupied with something else. But no. Everything is halted so these two can have as much naughty time as possible. And we are talking about an enhanced hunk who, for reasons, was also modified to perform better sexually. They keep going and going. And when you think they are drained… they go for it again. It’s exhausting and pretty much uninteresting when there were so many plot threads to explore. At least, I must admit those scenes are well written.
Leaving that aside, there is also good action and fighting scenes. It just take a little while to get to them. It has good villains, albeit basic ones. It is the kind of bad guys that are bad for the sake of it. Motivations are not clear, but after so much sex, I didn’t mind at all the change of scenary. But the first book was much better at exploring the foes of the tale. This time they barely have much focus, so their development is not as good as the one we had with Mark and his soldiers. The ending is a bit confusing with all those exchanges of control codes and it all seems a bit easier than expected, but once again, I won’t complain about the action. Better that than more naked time.
I do not dislike the main couple. How could I? The only thing I know is that both of them are gorgeous and have more stamina than twenty marathon runners at their peak. Zade is your classic Romance hero: big muscles, great good looks, superb sex skills, extremely protective and mildly possessive… And I guess he must be nice, but that is just a blant supposition. He obviously is not the greatest bother, because he forgets about Luke waaaay too easily. Simone is a bit weird. The scientist changes her behaviour too abruptly for my taste. It’s like she gets emotionally cold and feverishly horny at the same time. I’m not sure if her development makes much sense, but I rolled with it to make the reading lighter.
With the way they behave those two, I refuse to talk about their romantic relationship; because there is none. Those “I love you” in the end are hard to believe when their bodies are still burning the overdose of endorphines after their sweaty meetings. Oh well, I guess they will be happily ever after as long as they don’t get muscle cramps.
August 31, 2017
http://www.njkinnysblog.com/2017/08/m...
My Next Breadth by Shannon McKenna is the second book in "The Obsidian Files" series that features super soldiers with heightened senses, intense romances and nail biting suspense. Having enjoyed the first book, Right Through Me, I was eagerly waiting for this book and jumped at the chance to read and review it.
As I had noticed with the first book, this one too doesn't have a very appealing cover. If I hadn't taken a risk in picking up the first book, despite the somewhat dull cover, I would have missed out on this absolutely engrossing series. So if you a reader who makes first impressions based on covers then this one will come as a surprise because it falls in the category of "don't judge a book by its cover" books.
The blurb is engaging and it was because of the blurb, aside from the author's name, that I stopped to pick this book up to read. Shannon McKenna's writing style is fluid, crisp and vivid. I could visualise each scene and felt part of the story throughout. The suspense and paranormal edge had me sitting on the edge of my seat and diligently turning pages, eager to know what happened next!
The romance is extremely sensual, even erotic but is well balanced with emotional play so it doesn't look unreal and complements the story. The characterisation is expertly done and I could empathise with Zade and felt connected with Simone. Each character whether primary or secondary is given due page space and I loved how admirably the author has knit her story.
The world building is vivid and stunningly done.
Despite being part of a series, this book can be read as a standalone story.
All in all, My Next Breath by Shannon McKenna is another stellar book with plenty of suspense, action, intense romance and heartfelt emotional play that will keep a reader engrossed until the very end and then left wanting more! 4.5 stars out of 5 to it and recommended to all adult readers of paranormal romantic suspense. I heartily recommend The Obsidian Files series too and eagerly await the next book.
I received an ARC from the author and the tour organisers. The above is my honest and unbiased opinion and in no way influenced.
My Next Breadth by Shannon McKenna is the second book in "The Obsidian Files" series that features super soldiers with heightened senses, intense romances and nail biting suspense. Having enjoyed the first book, Right Through Me, I was eagerly waiting for this book and jumped at the chance to read and review it.
As I had noticed with the first book, this one too doesn't have a very appealing cover. If I hadn't taken a risk in picking up the first book, despite the somewhat dull cover, I would have missed out on this absolutely engrossing series. So if you a reader who makes first impressions based on covers then this one will come as a surprise because it falls in the category of "don't judge a book by its cover" books.
The blurb is engaging and it was because of the blurb, aside from the author's name, that I stopped to pick this book up to read. Shannon McKenna's writing style is fluid, crisp and vivid. I could visualise each scene and felt part of the story throughout. The suspense and paranormal edge had me sitting on the edge of my seat and diligently turning pages, eager to know what happened next!
The romance is extremely sensual, even erotic but is well balanced with emotional play so it doesn't look unreal and complements the story. The characterisation is expertly done and I could empathise with Zade and felt connected with Simone. Each character whether primary or secondary is given due page space and I loved how admirably the author has knit her story.
The world building is vivid and stunningly done.
Despite being part of a series, this book can be read as a standalone story.
All in all, My Next Breath by Shannon McKenna is another stellar book with plenty of suspense, action, intense romance and heartfelt emotional play that will keep a reader engrossed until the very end and then left wanting more! 4.5 stars out of 5 to it and recommended to all adult readers of paranormal romantic suspense. I heartily recommend The Obsidian Files series too and eagerly await the next book.
I received an ARC from the author and the tour organisers. The above is my honest and unbiased opinion and in no way influenced.
August 24, 2017
I received a copy of this book from the author through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This is the second book in Shannon McKenna’s The Obsidian Files series.
Zade Ryan has been searching for his missing brother. Part of a human modification experiment when he was young, he now possesses a data chip in his brain that allows him almost superhuman strength and analytic abilities. Zade and his brother, Luke, appear to be the only two people still alive from this failed experiment and he is desperate to find him before it’s too late. There is only one person who can help find him.
Beautiful and smart, Simone Brightman is a technology genius. Her inventions, unbeknownst to her, were used by a killer to capture and hide Luke in hopes of enticing Zade and destroying them both. After being dumped by a former lover, Simone sheds her sleek, stylish appearance for a more reclusive lifestyle, working from the privacy of her own small apartment.
Thinking that Simone can lead him to Luke, Zade sets his plan in motion to seduce her and get the information he needs to find his brother. What he didn’t count on was the sizzling attraction between them. As they embark on their dangerous mission to find Luke, they find their need for each other and their new relationship is more than either of them thought possible.
I’ve been a fan of Shannon McKenna since her McCloud Brothers series. I’m not a big fan of paranormal and mind-altering experiments, but I actually like this series since it’s not over the top. Her writing makes one feel that this could totally happen with today’s technology. The only downside for me is the number of characters in the book. I had a hard time keeping straight who was who and if they were the bad guys or the good guys. I had to constantly check back to my highlighted notes to refresh my memory of where they fit in and I found it to take away from the flow of the story.
This is a typical Shannon McKenna book with tons of action and mystery and, of course, lots of hot sex. I would recommend this book for those looking for those qualities and a bit of paranormal.
This is the second book in Shannon McKenna’s The Obsidian Files series.
Zade Ryan has been searching for his missing brother. Part of a human modification experiment when he was young, he now possesses a data chip in his brain that allows him almost superhuman strength and analytic abilities. Zade and his brother, Luke, appear to be the only two people still alive from this failed experiment and he is desperate to find him before it’s too late. There is only one person who can help find him.
Beautiful and smart, Simone Brightman is a technology genius. Her inventions, unbeknownst to her, were used by a killer to capture and hide Luke in hopes of enticing Zade and destroying them both. After being dumped by a former lover, Simone sheds her sleek, stylish appearance for a more reclusive lifestyle, working from the privacy of her own small apartment.
Thinking that Simone can lead him to Luke, Zade sets his plan in motion to seduce her and get the information he needs to find his brother. What he didn’t count on was the sizzling attraction between them. As they embark on their dangerous mission to find Luke, they find their need for each other and their new relationship is more than either of them thought possible.
I’ve been a fan of Shannon McKenna since her McCloud Brothers series. I’m not a big fan of paranormal and mind-altering experiments, but I actually like this series since it’s not over the top. Her writing makes one feel that this could totally happen with today’s technology. The only downside for me is the number of characters in the book. I had a hard time keeping straight who was who and if they were the bad guys or the good guys. I had to constantly check back to my highlighted notes to refresh my memory of where they fit in and I found it to take away from the flow of the story.
This is a typical Shannon McKenna book with tons of action and mystery and, of course, lots of hot sex. I would recommend this book for those looking for those qualities and a bit of paranormal.
September 7, 2017
My Next Breath is a roller coaster of emotions. Sexy. Captivating. Scary.
While this is part of the series, I haven't read the first one but I didn't have a problem understanding this world, or falling in love with every character.
Simone has live a shelter uneventful life. And she has no idea what she's cappable of or what is out there. Zade is a modified soldier. Trained and turned into a machine to serve an evil organization. But he scaped and he has to keep running.
Ms. McKenna writes raw emotions that grips the reader and keep you going well past your bedtime. The chemestry between Zade and Simone is explosive and their worlds crashing has you as lost they are. With the stakes as high and the sexual energy sizziling, this books throws you new aspects at every page.
Zade and Simone really fit together and that animal atraction makes it easy to believe it, even though they just met.
I love how human nature is portrated at such pure states. How manipulative people can be and to what extremes they will go to save themselves. I love the contrasts between how fragile Simone is (physically) to how strong she is to go thorugh everything and still be sane. How Zade couldbe so protective and compasionate even when he was treated as an object half his live.
Ms. McKenna introduces us to a world where you can't trust no one and keeps you at the edge of your seat. The fighting jumps from the pages and the sexy times go well with the adreline rush this book gives you.
My Next Breath doesn't have a dull or week moment and will keep you going until the end and then leave you wanting more. I can't wait to read the first book in the series and I'll be waiting to get my hands on the next one.
While this is part of the series, I haven't read the first one but I didn't have a problem understanding this world, or falling in love with every character.
Simone has live a shelter uneventful life. And she has no idea what she's cappable of or what is out there. Zade is a modified soldier. Trained and turned into a machine to serve an evil organization. But he scaped and he has to keep running.
Ms. McKenna writes raw emotions that grips the reader and keep you going well past your bedtime. The chemestry between Zade and Simone is explosive and their worlds crashing has you as lost they are. With the stakes as high and the sexual energy sizziling, this books throws you new aspects at every page.
Zade and Simone really fit together and that animal atraction makes it easy to believe it, even though they just met.
I love how human nature is portrated at such pure states. How manipulative people can be and to what extremes they will go to save themselves. I love the contrasts between how fragile Simone is (physically) to how strong she is to go thorugh everything and still be sane. How Zade couldbe so protective and compasionate even when he was treated as an object half his live.
Ms. McKenna introduces us to a world where you can't trust no one and keeps you at the edge of your seat. The fighting jumps from the pages and the sexy times go well with the adreline rush this book gives you.
My Next Breath doesn't have a dull or week moment and will keep you going until the end and then leave you wanting more. I can't wait to read the first book in the series and I'll be waiting to get my hands on the next one.
April 8, 2020
I haven't yet decided if this is a book that's worth keeping, reading again, or going out of my way to recommend, but major kudos to it for being worth finishing. I started reading it in late August last year, just before school started, and then got majorly busy with school, work, wedding planning, and just reading other books because I figured this one had already been waiting months for me to continue it, so what's a bit more?
Thus, my reading process for this book was to read about half of it when I first started it, during which time I wasn't sure if it was good enough to finish, and then to read about one chapter at a time every few weeks, until last week or so when I finally just sat down and finished it. This book had a simple enough plot so that I could do this and easily jump in and remember what was generally going on within a page or two, and also interesting enough that I still liked it enough to finish it despite this.
Now, didn't think this was a super original book, but I've read a lot of romances. Thus, I can confidently say that the sex scenes in this one were a lot more interesting than in the average romance. I don't know what in particular made them stand out more, but that was probably the most noteworthy thing about this book to me. If this book was any more detailed, I think it would've been too complicated for me to read it the way that I did. But I do think it would make an interesting story if it were a bit more complex, and I wouldn't mind reading more of the series if I ever came across it again. The ending was a great cliffhanger.
Note: I received this book for free through Goodreads Giveaways.
Thus, my reading process for this book was to read about half of it when I first started it, during which time I wasn't sure if it was good enough to finish, and then to read about one chapter at a time every few weeks, until last week or so when I finally just sat down and finished it. This book had a simple enough plot so that I could do this and easily jump in and remember what was generally going on within a page or two, and also interesting enough that I still liked it enough to finish it despite this.
Now, didn't think this was a super original book, but I've read a lot of romances. Thus, I can confidently say that the sex scenes in this one were a lot more interesting than in the average romance. I don't know what in particular made them stand out more, but that was probably the most noteworthy thing about this book to me. If this book was any more detailed, I think it would've been too complicated for me to read it the way that I did. But I do think it would make an interesting story if it were a bit more complex, and I wouldn't mind reading more of the series if I ever came across it again. The ending was a great cliffhanger.
Note: I received this book for free through Goodreads Giveaways.
August 23, 2017
This second installment of the Obsidian Files had me on the edge of my seat throughout the story. Once again, I felt as though I were a fly on the wall, in the midst of the action. The descriptions paint vivid landscapes that augment the largeness of the characters and the story. Knowing about the characters special powers does not detract from the reader believing that they are constantly in danger - in fact, the reader is in constant fear that these beloved characters will suffer more than death.
I love the way minor characters from Right Through Me become central to the story. Shannon skillfully weaves their background stories into this new one and hints at the connections they have with the characters we fell in love with in Right Through Me.
The sexual tension and constant struggle between the main characters to be strong and individual create a sense of yearning for acceptance and unconditional love. Exposing Simone and Zade's depth of longing is gut wrenching. The title, My Next Breath, becomes more and more appropriate as the story evolves and we find Zade and Simone struggling to stay alive and to stay one step ahead of their enemies.
Shannon has mastered the skill of weaving new technology and paranormal powers so that the characters abilities and the challenges they face do not seem over the top - in fact, it all is very real and mysterious.
I was provided this ARC in exchange for an honest review. I honestly can say that I loved this and I anticipate the Obsidian Files will be another successful series, just as good as, the McCloud Brothers series!
I love the way minor characters from Right Through Me become central to the story. Shannon skillfully weaves their background stories into this new one and hints at the connections they have with the characters we fell in love with in Right Through Me.
The sexual tension and constant struggle between the main characters to be strong and individual create a sense of yearning for acceptance and unconditional love. Exposing Simone and Zade's depth of longing is gut wrenching. The title, My Next Breath, becomes more and more appropriate as the story evolves and we find Zade and Simone struggling to stay alive and to stay one step ahead of their enemies.
Shannon has mastered the skill of weaving new technology and paranormal powers so that the characters abilities and the challenges they face do not seem over the top - in fact, it all is very real and mysterious.
I was provided this ARC in exchange for an honest review. I honestly can say that I loved this and I anticipate the Obsidian Files will be another successful series, just as good as, the McCloud Brothers series!
August 21, 2017
4.5 Thrilling Stars!
This is the second book in Ms. McKenna's exciting series, The Obsidian Files. Rebel supersoldier, Zade Ryan, is trying to find his missing brother and needs Simone Brightman's help. He always thought Simone was a cold, emotionless tech inventor. But after weeks of watching and planning how to approach her, he has become more and more intrigued by the reclusive woman. When he supposedly rescues her from a robbery, they are captivated by each other and the sparks fly. Zade wants to protect her from the organization who created them. As time is running out on finding his brother Luke alive, Zade and Simone must stay ahead of the men who will stop at nothing to destroy them all. Simone was a great character. She is smart and sassy and I loved her growth from mousy and compliant to brave and daring. She and Zade made a great team, and their chemistry was explosive. Ms Mckenna never disappoints with her strong heroines, dominant alpha men who love their women fiercely, the hottest love/sex scenes, the most terrifying villains, and the best heart pounding action scenes, and this book has it all! This story is fast paced, and thrilling with plot twists that will have you on the edge of your seat. My Next Breathe is a wonderful continuation to The Obsidian Files series and I can't wait for more from these rebels!
This is the second book in Ms. McKenna's exciting series, The Obsidian Files. Rebel supersoldier, Zade Ryan, is trying to find his missing brother and needs Simone Brightman's help. He always thought Simone was a cold, emotionless tech inventor. But after weeks of watching and planning how to approach her, he has become more and more intrigued by the reclusive woman. When he supposedly rescues her from a robbery, they are captivated by each other and the sparks fly. Zade wants to protect her from the organization who created them. As time is running out on finding his brother Luke alive, Zade and Simone must stay ahead of the men who will stop at nothing to destroy them all. Simone was a great character. She is smart and sassy and I loved her growth from mousy and compliant to brave and daring. She and Zade made a great team, and their chemistry was explosive. Ms Mckenna never disappoints with her strong heroines, dominant alpha men who love their women fiercely, the hottest love/sex scenes, the most terrifying villains, and the best heart pounding action scenes, and this book has it all! This story is fast paced, and thrilling with plot twists that will have you on the edge of your seat. My Next Breathe is a wonderful continuation to The Obsidian Files series and I can't wait for more from these rebels!
June 7, 2018
My Next Breath is the second book in Shannon McKenna series The Obsidian Files. I have read all of her books and the McCloud series is an absolute favourite of mine so when I received the ARC of My Next Breath through NetGallery I was thrilled to bits!
My Next Breath takes place couple of months after the first book ends and it takes us immediately on a rollercoaster ride packed with action, flaming emotions, betrayal, suffering … and redemption. All the themes that the die-hard fans of Shannon McKenna recognize and rely upon! The story is not your mom and pop thriller; it is a paranormal thriller that is not so far stretched when thinking of all the breakthroughs that have been happening in gene technology and genetic manipulation of human body … anyhow… My Next Breath is the story of a smartass and independent heroine Simone (who many of us did not really like after finishing the first book) and of an alpha hero Zane in its finest and a bunch of creepy villains …oh yes, you need them as well to make the story what it is!
The writer has given us another amazing story where the characters are made so likable through the human insecurities that they have, they make us dream of meeting our own hero and make us yearn for the steamy chemistry … And be ready for twists and turns and I promise you, you will not be bored, not a chance!
August 4, 2017
Shannon Mckenna’s latest work does not disappoint. She once again offers pulse-pounding action, sinister villains and heart-tugging characters.
This book is the second in her new series, focusing on escapees from a prison-like genetic modification center known as the “Midlands.” Zade is the focus in this book, a man consumed by his quest to find his missing brother. He will find Luke at any cost--even if it means going head-to-head with Obsidian--the nefarious group seeking to continue their work with brain implants and other gene alteration. Getting close to Simone Brightman is the first step in Zade’s plan to get to Luke.
This Simone is not the same refined, demure fiancee we saw in Right Through Me. Simone, now single and a bitter about her latest failed engagement, is much changed. Feeling suffocated by her step-father, Simone leaves the office behind, preferring to work from home. The last thing she expects on a rare evening out, is to be attacked--and then rescued by the mysterious Zade. Will she take a chance and trust a stranger?
This book is stunning follow-up from Right Through Me and leaves the reader wanting more. A compelling read, recommended to anyone who enjoys a complex characters, grisly villains and tons of action.
This book is the second in her new series, focusing on escapees from a prison-like genetic modification center known as the “Midlands.” Zade is the focus in this book, a man consumed by his quest to find his missing brother. He will find Luke at any cost--even if it means going head-to-head with Obsidian--the nefarious group seeking to continue their work with brain implants and other gene alteration. Getting close to Simone Brightman is the first step in Zade’s plan to get to Luke.
This Simone is not the same refined, demure fiancee we saw in Right Through Me. Simone, now single and a bitter about her latest failed engagement, is much changed. Feeling suffocated by her step-father, Simone leaves the office behind, preferring to work from home. The last thing she expects on a rare evening out, is to be attacked--and then rescued by the mysterious Zade. Will she take a chance and trust a stranger?
This book is stunning follow-up from Right Through Me and leaves the reader wanting more. A compelling read, recommended to anyone who enjoys a complex characters, grisly villains and tons of action.
August 29, 2017
I received an advance copy of My Next Breath via Netgalley and this is my freely given, honest review. My Next Breath is the second in the Obsidian Files series. It's every bit as exciting as the first, Right Through Me but it delves deeper into the Midlands survivors stories. I would suggest reading Right Through Me first because even though My Next Breath stands alone, it is part of an ongoing series and there will be references to it. This is the story of Zade, a Midlands survivor who is desperately searching for his brother and Simone, a biotech engineer that has been used by Obsidian without her knowledge. These two could be great together if they just trust each other. They are passionate, angry and worried about each other. Shannon McKenna is one of the best when writing romantic suspense and in this series she has added a bit of a paranormal aspect. This book is full of intrigue, mystery, action, lust and love! I cannot recommend it enough but I will not spoil your reading experience by giving away anything more. My Next Breath is written in dual POV as are all Shannon McKenna's books. I have read them all and she always impresses me with her innovative and exciting writing. Do not miss this one!
August 29, 2017
My Next Breath by Shannon McKenna is a heart pounding roller coaster thriller with hot, hot, hot romance. I would say that it is an instant lust romance but since Zade has been watching Simone for months, it is not exactly that but something more. Simone is not the person that she seemed to be when engaged to Noah (now ex) in the first book, Right Through Me. I loved Shannon McKenna takes first impressions of her characters and turn them upside down.
Along with amazingly complex main characters and supporting ones there are also disturbing villains. One especially spine-chilling is the stuff of nightmares which left my heart in my throat every time when he is with the one he has “captured”. I really wanted that thread to be complete but alas that is the cliffhanger with this book.
What themes are completed are done so in thrilling detail. There are just too many bad people after the Rebels for them to be taken care of in one book. The romance and relationship security does not wait until the threats are all eliminated, thank goodness. Now if the missing brother’s book is next, I will be one happy reader.
An ARC of the book was given to me by the publisher through Net Galley.
Along with amazingly complex main characters and supporting ones there are also disturbing villains. One especially spine-chilling is the stuff of nightmares which left my heart in my throat every time when he is with the one he has “captured”. I really wanted that thread to be complete but alas that is the cliffhanger with this book.
What themes are completed are done so in thrilling detail. There are just too many bad people after the Rebels for them to be taken care of in one book. The romance and relationship security does not wait until the threats are all eliminated, thank goodness. Now if the missing brother’s book is next, I will be one happy reader.
An ARC of the book was given to me by the publisher through Net Galley.
August 13, 2017
My Next Breath is the 2nd installment in Shannon McKenna series The Obsidian Files. I am learning these books must be read in the order of publication. If you read the first book. Then you will know that Simone was the woman with Noah when he first glanced upon Caro.
Well, now we will learn Simone story. Simone is the inventor of the tech that captured Luke in Right Through Me. Matter effect she is the inventor of almost everything that is being used against Zade and his fellow super-soldiers. However, she is unaware that the tech she builds is being used for something totally than what she invented them for.
But she will come to find out with the help of Zade Ryan, a Rebel who is out to find his brother and if possible take Obsidian down along the way.
I am so into this series. My Next Breath just like Right Through Me was fast paced, and intense romantic suspense. Some characters from the previous books make appearances, the chemistry between Simone and Zade was truly hot. After finishing reading My Next Breath, I am so ready for the 3rd book.
Well, now we will learn Simone story. Simone is the inventor of the tech that captured Luke in Right Through Me. Matter effect she is the inventor of almost everything that is being used against Zade and his fellow super-soldiers. However, she is unaware that the tech she builds is being used for something totally than what she invented them for.
But she will come to find out with the help of Zade Ryan, a Rebel who is out to find his brother and if possible take Obsidian down along the way.
I am so into this series. My Next Breath just like Right Through Me was fast paced, and intense romantic suspense. Some characters from the previous books make appearances, the chemistry between Simone and Zade was truly hot. After finishing reading My Next Breath, I am so ready for the 3rd book.
August 6, 2017
Excellent story and fast paced action. Very erotic and a page turner. A little confusing at first but doesn't distract from the overall story.
Zade is a super soldier who is looking for his brother. Simone is a biomed engineer who invents ways to help people with neurological conditions. What she doesn't know is some bad people have being using her inventions to make the super soldiers. Simone has debilitating headaches and gets tested for a genetic disorder that her mother had.
Zade thinks Simone knows where his brother could be, so he sets up a situation where he saves her. She decides to live a little and has sex with Zade. What neither expect is the instant attraction. The bad guys are after them and they have to stay one step ahead of them, while trying to find his brother.
I don't know if any of this makes sense but I didn't want to say too much without giving everything away. I love Ms. McKenna's books and can't wait for the next one.
* Received a copy from Netgalley *
Zade is a super soldier who is looking for his brother. Simone is a biomed engineer who invents ways to help people with neurological conditions. What she doesn't know is some bad people have being using her inventions to make the super soldiers. Simone has debilitating headaches and gets tested for a genetic disorder that her mother had.
Zade thinks Simone knows where his brother could be, so he sets up a situation where he saves her. She decides to live a little and has sex with Zade. What neither expect is the instant attraction. The bad guys are after them and they have to stay one step ahead of them, while trying to find his brother.
I don't know if any of this makes sense but I didn't want to say too much without giving everything away. I love Ms. McKenna's books and can't wait for the next one.
* Received a copy from Netgalley *
August 22, 2017
"My next breath" is the second installement in the Obsidian Files series. Althoug i've had some troubles with the first book (see my review for "Right through me"), McKenna did a better job here to convince me that she has it still in her.
Zade, also a modified supersoldier, searches feverishly for his brother Luke, who was abducted within the first book. His only lead is Simone Brightman, the inventor of the tech-gadgets used to kidnap Luke. But Zade is not the only one with secrets and when both meet new secrets, passions and maybe more will be revealed.
Even though the background story about the midland rebels is still a little bit shaky and kind of undefined, the protagonist are definetly better thought-out and likeable than in book 1. Especially Simone and her kickass attitude was a fresh wind in comparison to Caro.
So, 4 stars from me ^^
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ARC was provided by Netgalley.
Zade, also a modified supersoldier, searches feverishly for his brother Luke, who was abducted within the first book. His only lead is Simone Brightman, the inventor of the tech-gadgets used to kidnap Luke. But Zade is not the only one with secrets and when both meet new secrets, passions and maybe more will be revealed.
Even though the background story about the midland rebels is still a little bit shaky and kind of undefined, the protagonist are definetly better thought-out and likeable than in book 1. Especially Simone and her kickass attitude was a fresh wind in comparison to Caro.
So, 4 stars from me ^^
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ARC was provided by Netgalley.
September 3, 2017
Fantastic Read! Another great series. I loved the first novel of the Obsidian Files and the second installment did not disappoint. I got a glimpse of Simone in Right Through Me (Book 1) . I found her mysterious and interesting. She has many layers and secrets. There is definitely more to Simone than the sophisticated facade she had in the first novel. I loved the chemistry between Simone and Zade. Zade is definitely an Alpha male. Both Simone and Zade have secrets and as the story progresses we see them unravel.
Shannon Mckenna has a real talent in creating versatile and interesting characters. The love scenes are intense and passionate. The suspense was fast paced and exciting. I have been a Shannon Mckenna fan since her first Mc Cloud novel behind closed doors. I have loved every novel she has written. The Obsidian Files are a great series and I look forward to Lukes story. This is a must read!!!!
Shannon Mckenna has a real talent in creating versatile and interesting characters. The love scenes are intense and passionate. The suspense was fast paced and exciting. I have been a Shannon Mckenna fan since her first Mc Cloud novel behind closed doors. I have loved every novel she has written. The Obsidian Files are a great series and I look forward to Lukes story. This is a must read!!!!
April 8, 2018
The Next Breath is a continuation of The Obsidian Files series. In this story, Zade is hunting for his brother, Luke, who he suspects has been captured by Obsidian. His only way to find him is by stalking and ultimately making contact with Simone Brightman, a researcher working with Obsidian. Zade doesn't plan on being attracted to her or feeling protective, but when the men he hires to scare her do more than instructed, he comes to her rescue. It isn't long before he realizes that she knows nothing about how they are using her research, and discovers that she has been enhanced too. Simone doesn't like being used, so Zade must gain her trust before they can work together to find Luke.
This was a good addition to The Obsidian Files series. Simone and Zade are likable characters, and other characters from the previous book as well as McKenna's previous series make appearances during the book. Overall, an enjoyable, entertaining story.
This was a good addition to The Obsidian Files series. Simone and Zade are likable characters, and other characters from the previous book as well as McKenna's previous series make appearances during the book. Overall, an enjoyable, entertaining story.
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